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The Lumberjack From the Cabin Next Door: A Christian Rom-Com
Welcome to Maple Bay—where bucket lists are sacred, small-town gossip travels at Wi-Fi speed, and your next-door neighbor might just ruin your plans in the most inconveniently charming way possible.
Kate only came back to Maple Bay for two
Handle her late Aunt June’s will.
Leave again before anyone ropes her into some quaint, small-town matchmaking scheme.
But June’s “Not-So-Ordinary Bucket List” has other ideas. Written in floral stationery (coffee stains included), it’s full of items like dance under the stars, try a maple bacon donut, and kiss someone who makes you laugh. Kate’s convinced she can speed-run the list, check every box, and get back to her big-city life—without getting attached.
Enter Harper—the bakery owner with a crown of blonde curls, the matchmaking instincts of a rom-com best friend, and a habit of stealing Kate’s phone to save her number under names like Muffin Dealer / Life Coach. And then there’s Eli—Kate’s gruff, flannel-wearing neighbor who’s supposed to be a lumberjack but somehow also… sketches like an illustrator and flies planes for a reclusive billionaire.
The more Kate gets tangled in June’s list—and the more breakfasts, donuts, and accidental heart-to-hearts she shares with Eli—the harder it is to keep her walls intact. But when her estranged mother shows up with plans to help her sell the cabin, Kate has to decide if she’s willing to fight for the roots she never meant to grow… and for the man who somehow ended up starring in her next novel.
Filled with laugh-out-loud banter, faith woven in the cracks, and a romance sweeter than Harper’s cinnamon rolls, this small-town romantic comedy is about finding home in the last place you expected—and choosing to stay there.
Kate only came back to Maple Bay for two
Handle her late Aunt June’s will.
Leave again before anyone ropes her into some quaint, small-town matchmaking scheme.
But June’s “Not-So-Ordinary Bucket List” has other ideas. Written in floral stationery (coffee stains included), it’s full of items like dance under the stars, try a maple bacon donut, and kiss someone who makes you laugh. Kate’s convinced she can speed-run the list, check every box, and get back to her big-city life—without getting attached.
Enter Harper—the bakery owner with a crown of blonde curls, the matchmaking instincts of a rom-com best friend, and a habit of stealing Kate’s phone to save her number under names like Muffin Dealer / Life Coach. And then there’s Eli—Kate’s gruff, flannel-wearing neighbor who’s supposed to be a lumberjack but somehow also… sketches like an illustrator and flies planes for a reclusive billionaire.
The more Kate gets tangled in June’s list—and the more breakfasts, donuts, and accidental heart-to-hearts she shares with Eli—the harder it is to keep her walls intact. But when her estranged mother shows up with plans to help her sell the cabin, Kate has to decide if she’s willing to fight for the roots she never meant to grow… and for the man who somehow ended up starring in her next novel.
Filled with laugh-out-loud banter, faith woven in the cracks, and a romance sweeter than Harper’s cinnamon rolls, this small-town romantic comedy is about finding home in the last place you expected—and choosing to stay there.
262 pages, Paperback
Published October 18, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 18, 2025
A sweet and deep Christian romance!
This author knows how to write redemption! and reconciliation! I loved it!
Kate inherits her aunt's cabin and decides to go see what needs to be done to sell it, and maybe she'll get started on the novel she has always wanted to write.
She meets Eli. The plaid flannel wearing hunk next door. He was good friends with Kate's aunt and now he and Kate are thrust together by the aunt's will.
There's more though! Kate has a lot of past baggage and trauma that her aunt's will asks her to work through. Eli is there to help plus a couple other characters that make the story so much sweeter. The salvation that Kate experienced gave me chills. So good.
It's slow burn, deep healing, and glorious Jesus love.
I'm very impressed with the way this author wrote the arc of the romance in particular. Ultimately, Kate had to heal on her own with God first. She found Jesus and healing and then moved forward with Eli. I loved that. It was a healthy relationship that I don't often see even in most Christian fiction books.
I will be watching for what this author does next. It's not 5 stars because I found the story slow in some parts and I prefer a faster pace. I would still highly recommend this!
Thank you to the author for sending me a free copy. I was not obligated to post a positive review. This is my honest opinion!
This author knows how to write redemption! and reconciliation! I loved it!
Kate inherits her aunt's cabin and decides to go see what needs to be done to sell it, and maybe she'll get started on the novel she has always wanted to write.
She meets Eli. The plaid flannel wearing hunk next door. He was good friends with Kate's aunt and now he and Kate are thrust together by the aunt's will.
There's more though! Kate has a lot of past baggage and trauma that her aunt's will asks her to work through. Eli is there to help plus a couple other characters that make the story so much sweeter. The salvation that Kate experienced gave me chills. So good.
It's slow burn, deep healing, and glorious Jesus love.
I'm very impressed with the way this author wrote the arc of the romance in particular. Ultimately, Kate had to heal on her own with God first. She found Jesus and healing and then moved forward with Eli. I loved that. It was a healthy relationship that I don't often see even in most Christian fiction books.
I will be watching for what this author does next. It's not 5 stars because I found the story slow in some parts and I prefer a faster pace. I would still highly recommend this!
Thank you to the author for sending me a free copy. I was not obligated to post a positive review. This is my honest opinion!
June 18, 2026
✨Spoiler-Free Review✨
The Lumberjack From the Cabin Next Door by Emily Hampton
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was super excited to pick up The Lumberjack from the Cabin Next Door. Christian rom-coms are a fun genre to read, and getting to read this alongside one of my book besties made the experience even more fun!! I already can’t wait for our next buddy read, Amanda! 💕
In this story, Kate inherits her late aunt’s cabin - but there’s a catch. Before she can officially claim it, she must complete a bucket list her aunt left behind. Enter Eli, the lumberjack from the cabin next door, who volunteers to help Kate tackle each item on the list. Together, they embark on a series of fun, unique, and often hilarious adventures! Alongside the romance, there’s also a significant storyline involving Kate’s strained relationship with her mother, creating themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing. ❤️🩹
One thing I absolutely have to praise is the humor. This book genuinely made me laugh out loud more than almost any book I’ve ever read! There were multiple scenes that will live rent-free in my brain for a very long time. 🪱😂 I also really appreciated the faith content. The spiritual themes felt meaningful and were woven throughout the story in a way I found beautiful and encouraging. The mother-daughter relationship was another highlight for me, and I found that storyline much more compelling than the romance itself 😅
Unfortunately, the writing style ended up being a major obstacle for me 🥲
I want to preface this by saying that I’m not someone who typically pays much attention to writing styles. I enjoy everything from very simple prose to more lyrical and flowery writing. I’m generally pretty easy to please in this area. However, this particular writing style simply didn’t work for me.😬
The best way I can describe it is that every sentence felt like an Instagram caption. There were constant metaphors, inanimate objects were frequently given human characteristics, and nearly every line seemed designed to be either deeply profound or laugh-out-loud funny. For the first 20% of the book, I actually enjoyed it. It felt quirky and fresh. But as the story continued, it became repetitive and exhausting. I found myself needing to take breaks because I could only handle the writing in small doses. 🫣 *I made a few of my highlights visible in hopes to showcase what I’m talking about*
Another issue was that all of the characters sounded very similar. They spoke alike, thought alike, and often felt interchangeable. I never really got the sense that each character had a distinct voice. Combined with the heavy use of metaphors, the dialogue and narration stopped feeling natural to me. 😣
I also struggled with the plot itself. There were quite a few coincidences that seemed to exist solely to make everything work out perfectly. Character growth and emotional breakthroughs often felt abrupt rather than earned, and many of the arcs lacked the gradual development that helps those moments feel satisfying. As a result, the story often felt stiff rather than naturally unfolding. 😅
In the end, this was a difficult book for me to rate because there were aspects I genuinely loved. The humor was fantastic, the faith content was meaningful, and the themes of forgiveness and reconciliation were beautifully handled. However, the writing style and uneven character development ultimately prevented me from fully enjoying the story. 🫠
While I personally wouldn’t recommend this one because I had such a difficult time getting through it, I can absolutely see it working for readers who enjoy highly quirky, metaphor-heavy writing and lighthearted romantic comedies. It’s also packed with cozy fall vibes, making it a potentially fun seasonal read.❤️
Overall, this one wasn’t for me, but I can understand why others have fallen in love with it.
***
Content Considerations: Death of loved one, strained relationship with parent
The Lumberjack From the Cabin Next Door by Emily Hampton
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was super excited to pick up The Lumberjack from the Cabin Next Door. Christian rom-coms are a fun genre to read, and getting to read this alongside one of my book besties made the experience even more fun!! I already can’t wait for our next buddy read, Amanda! 💕
In this story, Kate inherits her late aunt’s cabin - but there’s a catch. Before she can officially claim it, she must complete a bucket list her aunt left behind. Enter Eli, the lumberjack from the cabin next door, who volunteers to help Kate tackle each item on the list. Together, they embark on a series of fun, unique, and often hilarious adventures! Alongside the romance, there’s also a significant storyline involving Kate’s strained relationship with her mother, creating themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing. ❤️🩹
One thing I absolutely have to praise is the humor. This book genuinely made me laugh out loud more than almost any book I’ve ever read! There were multiple scenes that will live rent-free in my brain for a very long time. 🪱😂 I also really appreciated the faith content. The spiritual themes felt meaningful and were woven throughout the story in a way I found beautiful and encouraging. The mother-daughter relationship was another highlight for me, and I found that storyline much more compelling than the romance itself 😅
Unfortunately, the writing style ended up being a major obstacle for me 🥲
I want to preface this by saying that I’m not someone who typically pays much attention to writing styles. I enjoy everything from very simple prose to more lyrical and flowery writing. I’m generally pretty easy to please in this area. However, this particular writing style simply didn’t work for me.😬
The best way I can describe it is that every sentence felt like an Instagram caption. There were constant metaphors, inanimate objects were frequently given human characteristics, and nearly every line seemed designed to be either deeply profound or laugh-out-loud funny. For the first 20% of the book, I actually enjoyed it. It felt quirky and fresh. But as the story continued, it became repetitive and exhausting. I found myself needing to take breaks because I could only handle the writing in small doses. 🫣 *I made a few of my highlights visible in hopes to showcase what I’m talking about*
Another issue was that all of the characters sounded very similar. They spoke alike, thought alike, and often felt interchangeable. I never really got the sense that each character had a distinct voice. Combined with the heavy use of metaphors, the dialogue and narration stopped feeling natural to me. 😣
I also struggled with the plot itself. There were quite a few coincidences that seemed to exist solely to make everything work out perfectly. Character growth and emotional breakthroughs often felt abrupt rather than earned, and many of the arcs lacked the gradual development that helps those moments feel satisfying. As a result, the story often felt stiff rather than naturally unfolding. 😅
In the end, this was a difficult book for me to rate because there were aspects I genuinely loved. The humor was fantastic, the faith content was meaningful, and the themes of forgiveness and reconciliation were beautifully handled. However, the writing style and uneven character development ultimately prevented me from fully enjoying the story. 🫠
While I personally wouldn’t recommend this one because I had such a difficult time getting through it, I can absolutely see it working for readers who enjoy highly quirky, metaphor-heavy writing and lighthearted romantic comedies. It’s also packed with cozy fall vibes, making it a potentially fun seasonal read.❤️
Overall, this one wasn’t for me, but I can understand why others have fallen in love with it.
***
Content Considerations: Death of loved one, strained relationship with parent
June 14, 2026
The Lumberjack from the Cabin Next Door by Emily Hampton
4 Stars
https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
This was really precious! A sweet Christian Rom-Com with nice faith moments and plenty of laughs!
Kate goes back to Maple Bay after her Aunt June's estate needs to be settled. What she finds instead is a bucket list to complete from her Aunt after her passing...to be able to get the cabin she left her. The bucket list takes her out of her comfort zone and into experiences she needed to heal and live life. The "lumberjack next door" Eli walks through the bucket list items with her....bringing friendship, romance and faith.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with this book. Reading with a friend certain adds to the enjoyment :) but the faith and forgiveness thread in the book stood out.
I highlighted many quotes on grief and faith and really connected with the main couple here.
Seeing Kate work through her issues with her Mom really had me wishing that could be something my own mother and I experience one day. It was an ideal situation for forgiveness and moving on, even if it doesn't always happen in real life.
While it didn't really hit a 5 star fav for me, I still recommend it for a good Christian rom-com read when you want to genuine emotional connections, unexpected moments over pancakes and sweet faith content in a romance.
Aunt June's bucket list is a great reminder that the best adventures are the ones we never plan.
Fav Quotes:
"June told me once that forgiveness never stars with can. It starts with can't. You tell God you can't do it, and He doesn't argue. He helps."
"You learned that rest isn't failure and love isn't a performance and God's quiet is not His absence."
"Grief teaches us that life is fragile. But love - real love - reminds us that life is not pointless. Eternal life doesn't just mean heaven someday. It means hope now. A reason to breathe today. A God who stays."
"Forgiveness isn't weakness; it's muscle. It's choosing - every time the old pain knocks - to stop the echo and start the healing. It's hard, it costs you, and it's always worth it because it gives you back your future."
"Tell the truth to God out loud. He can carry it. He has been carrying you."
"God's love isn't disproved by what he takes away - it's proven by how He stays. She showed me that life's purpose isn't in building something impressive here, but in loving so deeply that eternity feels like going home."
"You don't have to figure God out before you let Him love you."
"But listen to me: sometimes the healing we need looks nothing like we planned. Even when it feels broken, God is still working. Especially then."
Content/Trigger Warnings: grief from loss of loved one, strained mother/daughter relationship, healing, no language, clean romance
4 Stars
https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
This was really precious! A sweet Christian Rom-Com with nice faith moments and plenty of laughs!
Kate goes back to Maple Bay after her Aunt June's estate needs to be settled. What she finds instead is a bucket list to complete from her Aunt after her passing...to be able to get the cabin she left her. The bucket list takes her out of her comfort zone and into experiences she needed to heal and live life. The "lumberjack next door" Eli walks through the bucket list items with her....bringing friendship, romance and faith.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with this book. Reading with a friend certain adds to the enjoyment :) but the faith and forgiveness thread in the book stood out.
I highlighted many quotes on grief and faith and really connected with the main couple here.
Seeing Kate work through her issues with her Mom really had me wishing that could be something my own mother and I experience one day. It was an ideal situation for forgiveness and moving on, even if it doesn't always happen in real life.
While it didn't really hit a 5 star fav for me, I still recommend it for a good Christian rom-com read when you want to genuine emotional connections, unexpected moments over pancakes and sweet faith content in a romance.
Aunt June's bucket list is a great reminder that the best adventures are the ones we never plan.
Fav Quotes:
"June told me once that forgiveness never stars with can. It starts with can't. You tell God you can't do it, and He doesn't argue. He helps."
"You learned that rest isn't failure and love isn't a performance and God's quiet is not His absence."
"Grief teaches us that life is fragile. But love - real love - reminds us that life is not pointless. Eternal life doesn't just mean heaven someday. It means hope now. A reason to breathe today. A God who stays."
"Forgiveness isn't weakness; it's muscle. It's choosing - every time the old pain knocks - to stop the echo and start the healing. It's hard, it costs you, and it's always worth it because it gives you back your future."
"Tell the truth to God out loud. He can carry it. He has been carrying you."
"God's love isn't disproved by what he takes away - it's proven by how He stays. She showed me that life's purpose isn't in building something impressive here, but in loving so deeply that eternity feels like going home."
"You don't have to figure God out before you let Him love you."
"But listen to me: sometimes the healing we need looks nothing like we planned. Even when it feels broken, God is still working. Especially then."
Content/Trigger Warnings: grief from loss of loved one, strained mother/daughter relationship, healing, no language, clean romance
June 14, 2026
3.5⭐️ you had me at cabin, cozy, and, Christian. All the coffee and pastry talk was right up my alley. Midway through it slowed a little for me but picked back up in the end.
May 17, 2026
Unique romcom/romance! A story within a story :) Lots of wonderful spiritual references and gentle Biblical matters...I thought it was going along too smoothly early on but situations happened which made for an enjoyable read with satisfying resolutions, themes of forgiveness and restoration. An unusual bucket list from a wise loving relative made for a sweet story overall. A first time for this author in my quest to help these newer ones because of their Christian aspects especially but yet one I was pleased with; I would read more of hers as she "passed the test " for being willing to read others of hers.
November 30, 2025
5+ Stars!
Completed: Nov. 30/35
Format: Kindle e-book
Challenge Prompt: “TBBS’s “baking theme” — lots of baking happens and there is baking at Harper’s store
Book #164 of 2025: new-to-me author
I was in the mood for a sweet, light, and funny romcom to lift up my spirits. I chose a book by an author I had never read before but I hoped it would fit the bill. What I got was SO much more than I ever knew I needed at the time. The cover and the title do not indicate the depth of this book. It’s like a hidden treasure waiting to be on a journey with you. This is a long review, I know, but I am just “keeping it real” as they say.
This is a full-length novel that has so many elements I love within a fantastic story. When a book really impacts me, as this one did, that’s when I give a 5+ rating.
I am going to share some of my favorite parts of this story along with a page number or quote. I originally wanted to use quotes as an example of every point, but I want the readers to discover them on their own. It’s like when you tell your kids that they can’t open presents before Christmas. Anticipation is FUN! And no peeking ahead at the page numbers either! Enjoy the newness of your own reading.
*HILARITY in Spades: I giggled, I laughed out loud, I snort-laughed, and I even had a few silent, shaking laughs where it’s hard to breathe! Example: Kate’s description of the hike on page 159.
*EPIC Chapter Titles & Artwork: I do appreciate smart chapter titles in a book because they make me laugh, reflect, or get me curious in some way. One of my favourites is Chapter 12’s “Emergency Sugar (Bake and Give to a Stranger).” There are also several whimsical illustrations that represent moments within the story.
*HIGHLIGHT Mania: I broke my own record for number of highlights in a single book. I highlighted 35 passages in my Kindle e-book. If you think that’s too much, I’ll have you know that it could have been higher.
*Mountains of METAPHORS: There are a lot of metaphors. And when I say a lot, I mean go and grab your picky English teacher of old and have her or him count them. BUT they fit, they work, and they’re hilarious! Example: the trail metaphor on page 159.
*A MAIN CHARACTER You Love to Love Through it All: Kate is someone any woman could relate to in various ways. And not just the good stuff. The layered strain and pain with her mother hurt my heart. We’ve all been there with a difficult loved one or false friend. On page 204, Kate is arguing with her mom about regrets. And, yes, I teared up.
*Aunt June’s JEWELS of ADVICE: So many nuggets of wisdom come from Kate’s late Aunt June. Example: a letter on page 35.
*Eli (main male character) is BOOK BOYFRIEND level appealing — in flannel: One example is on page 170. Kate writes about him and his subtle, yet strong ways.
*LIFE Lessons Big & Small: Everything from baking to big decisions are in this story. Wise words are penned to Kate from Mr. Whitaker about lists not being tasks on page 241.
*ROMANTIC SWOON: It is plentiful but not in a showy, eye-rolling, or Hallmark-y kind of way. It’s subtle and special, deep and meaningful, and just makes the heart swell. An example is on page 250 when they’re eating together and they have a moment of eye contact.
*FABULOUS FRIENDS Abound: I want to be friends with Kate and her friends, old and new. Kate’s new friend, Brooke’s sincerity and love shines through during an important moment on page 232.
*Cozy COMMUNITY Vibes are Always Good: The group of folks in Maple Bay are simply gold. Page 303 describes a moment, where several are gathered together and they all react collectively to a beautiful moment. “The room did what rooms do when hope gets a face: it lost its mind.” Oh, and the community just may include a huge dog, an adventurous squirrel, a muscular mouse, and other such delights.
*A WAY with WORDS: This author has a beautiful way with words. One example is on page 257 when a pastor is speaking about grief.
*Sincere FAITH: Faith is woven throughout this book in a gentle yet meaningful manner. On page 216, Kate types “It turns out rest isn’t a place. It’s a Person who knows how to stay.” (Note the capital P.)
*REDEMPTIVE Arc for Kate’s Journey: Page 294 is where Kate is writing a letter about her faith and growth journey. It made me stop and read it over a few times to soak it in.
*BONUS Quote: Since I live in Manitoba, Canada, my province doesn’t come up in books often. The line on page 24 had me cracking up: “Kate screamed—loud enough to startle herself and, she was pretty sure, a flock of geese in Manitoba.” It is funny because it’s true.
I could go on and on-more than I already have-but I think any reader could appreciate the wellspring this story provides. It is a beautiful, God-inspired tapestry of color, light, humanity, emotions, and lots of love. Read it and find out for yourself. Then tell some friends.
Completed: Nov. 30/35
Format: Kindle e-book
Challenge Prompt: “TBBS’s “baking theme” — lots of baking happens and there is baking at Harper’s store
Book #164 of 2025: new-to-me author
I was in the mood for a sweet, light, and funny romcom to lift up my spirits. I chose a book by an author I had never read before but I hoped it would fit the bill. What I got was SO much more than I ever knew I needed at the time. The cover and the title do not indicate the depth of this book. It’s like a hidden treasure waiting to be on a journey with you. This is a long review, I know, but I am just “keeping it real” as they say.
This is a full-length novel that has so many elements I love within a fantastic story. When a book really impacts me, as this one did, that’s when I give a 5+ rating.
I am going to share some of my favorite parts of this story along with a page number or quote. I originally wanted to use quotes as an example of every point, but I want the readers to discover them on their own. It’s like when you tell your kids that they can’t open presents before Christmas. Anticipation is FUN! And no peeking ahead at the page numbers either! Enjoy the newness of your own reading.
*HILARITY in Spades: I giggled, I laughed out loud, I snort-laughed, and I even had a few silent, shaking laughs where it’s hard to breathe! Example: Kate’s description of the hike on page 159.
*EPIC Chapter Titles & Artwork: I do appreciate smart chapter titles in a book because they make me laugh, reflect, or get me curious in some way. One of my favourites is Chapter 12’s “Emergency Sugar (Bake and Give to a Stranger).” There are also several whimsical illustrations that represent moments within the story.
*HIGHLIGHT Mania: I broke my own record for number of highlights in a single book. I highlighted 35 passages in my Kindle e-book. If you think that’s too much, I’ll have you know that it could have been higher.
*Mountains of METAPHORS: There are a lot of metaphors. And when I say a lot, I mean go and grab your picky English teacher of old and have her or him count them. BUT they fit, they work, and they’re hilarious! Example: the trail metaphor on page 159.
*A MAIN CHARACTER You Love to Love Through it All: Kate is someone any woman could relate to in various ways. And not just the good stuff. The layered strain and pain with her mother hurt my heart. We’ve all been there with a difficult loved one or false friend. On page 204, Kate is arguing with her mom about regrets. And, yes, I teared up.
*Aunt June’s JEWELS of ADVICE: So many nuggets of wisdom come from Kate’s late Aunt June. Example: a letter on page 35.
*Eli (main male character) is BOOK BOYFRIEND level appealing — in flannel: One example is on page 170. Kate writes about him and his subtle, yet strong ways.
*LIFE Lessons Big & Small: Everything from baking to big decisions are in this story. Wise words are penned to Kate from Mr. Whitaker about lists not being tasks on page 241.
*ROMANTIC SWOON: It is plentiful but not in a showy, eye-rolling, or Hallmark-y kind of way. It’s subtle and special, deep and meaningful, and just makes the heart swell. An example is on page 250 when they’re eating together and they have a moment of eye contact.
*FABULOUS FRIENDS Abound: I want to be friends with Kate and her friends, old and new. Kate’s new friend, Brooke’s sincerity and love shines through during an important moment on page 232.
*Cozy COMMUNITY Vibes are Always Good: The group of folks in Maple Bay are simply gold. Page 303 describes a moment, where several are gathered together and they all react collectively to a beautiful moment. “The room did what rooms do when hope gets a face: it lost its mind.” Oh, and the community just may include a huge dog, an adventurous squirrel, a muscular mouse, and other such delights.
*A WAY with WORDS: This author has a beautiful way with words. One example is on page 257 when a pastor is speaking about grief.
*Sincere FAITH: Faith is woven throughout this book in a gentle yet meaningful manner. On page 216, Kate types “It turns out rest isn’t a place. It’s a Person who knows how to stay.” (Note the capital P.)
*REDEMPTIVE Arc for Kate’s Journey: Page 294 is where Kate is writing a letter about her faith and growth journey. It made me stop and read it over a few times to soak it in.
*BONUS Quote: Since I live in Manitoba, Canada, my province doesn’t come up in books often. The line on page 24 had me cracking up: “Kate screamed—loud enough to startle herself and, she was pretty sure, a flock of geese in Manitoba.” It is funny because it’s true.
I could go on and on-more than I already have-but I think any reader could appreciate the wellspring this story provides. It is a beautiful, God-inspired tapestry of color, light, humanity, emotions, and lots of love. Read it and find out for yourself. Then tell some friends.
November 28, 2025
Good for the heart!
“Love is often less fireworks and more porch light—steady, kind, left on for you.”
This quote sums up this book perfectly. Poetic. Warm. Precious. Also witty. And full of lines worth remembering. I will be saving my highlights!
“Love is often less fireworks and more porch light—steady, kind, left on for you.”
This quote sums up this book perfectly. Poetic. Warm. Precious. Also witty. And full of lines worth remembering. I will be saving my highlights!
November 14, 2025
This was such a fun read. If you enjoy books that make you laugh out loud, have memorable secondary characters and deal with some deeper issues as well then this book may be for you. The writing style is very descriptive with plenty of simile's and metaphors that had me smiling. The MMC Eli is a likeable guy and the perfect match for Kate. I appreciated that the relationship was slow to build. There is a faith thread that gives the story depth. It was one of my favorite books of the year and a definite 5 star.
November 17, 2025
Encore!
Like a warm literary blanket, Lumberjack fills the soul with humor and hard truth. What a delight introduction that ensures this reader will look for more from this author.
Like a warm literary blanket, Lumberjack fills the soul with humor and hard truth. What a delight introduction that ensures this reader will look for more from this author.
January 16, 2026
Unexpectedly beautiful
To be honest this sat in my tbr pile longer than I care to admit, but now I see it was an ordained moment of needed truth, a reminder to live and love and not let things lie dormant or hurt when we can give grace, forgive and live with joy.
This book gives so much more than one would expect. Yes there is a lumberjack and a cabin but also carbs and coffee that give people the willpower to do things scared.
Don't miss out on what this book has to give
To be honest this sat in my tbr pile longer than I care to admit, but now I see it was an ordained moment of needed truth, a reminder to live and love and not let things lie dormant or hurt when we can give grace, forgive and live with joy.
This book gives so much more than one would expect. Yes there is a lumberjack and a cabin but also carbs and coffee that give people the willpower to do things scared.
Don't miss out on what this book has to give
November 3, 2025
The right book at the right time. The author uses a lot (and I mean a LOT) of metaphors but it works because she is consistent throughout. The biblical message came through beautifully but not preachy. I will definitely be reading it again and looking for my by this author.
November 2, 2025
Wow
I LOVED this book! From beginning to end it made me smile, think deeply and laugh until l couldn't get it out past a snort or a wheeze, plus a good dose of Jesus. Emily Hampton, you've outdone yourself on this one 🙂
I LOVED this book! From beginning to end it made me smile, think deeply and laugh until l couldn't get it out past a snort or a wheeze, plus a good dose of Jesus. Emily Hampton, you've outdone yourself on this one 🙂
October 28, 2025
Magnificent
I haven’t read a book that compelled me to complete it in a very long time. Thank you for a reason to stay up later than expected just so I could finish it. I will not be deleting this one and will pull it up when my heart needs to feel good.
I haven’t read a book that compelled me to complete it in a very long time. Thank you for a reason to stay up later than expected just so I could finish it. I will not be deleting this one and will pull it up when my heart needs to feel good.
December 1, 2025
This book will melt your heart, make you laugh out loud, cause you to tear up, and prompt you to pull out your Bible and read, drawing you closer to Jesus.
One moment you’re laughing at the crazy antics, and the next, you’re having tears in your eyes from the sweet faith message. The power of this book simply sneaks up on you.
Some of my favorite quotes:
Even when it feels broken, God is still working.
Remember: God shows up in the small things-like breakfast, laughter, and the people crazy enough to sit and the table with us. Don't miss Him there.
Don't forget-this is the whole story in one verse. Kate read it aloud, her voice catching, "For God so loved the whole world, that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.
Boundaries are love with a fence.
And also...forgiveness doesn't mean opening the gate and letting the bull in.
The pastor continued. "Notice what it doesn't say. It doesn't say, 'For God so judged the world.' It doesn't say, 'For God so tolerated the world.' It doesn't say, "For God so loved the good people who got everything right.' No. It says, God so loved the world. All of it. All of us. In our mess. In our grief. In the mornings we can't get out of bed, and the nights we say words we regret. He loved. And love...gives."
Forgiveness is a decision I will make a thousand tiny times with a God who never runs out of mercy.
One moment you’re laughing at the crazy antics, and the next, you’re having tears in your eyes from the sweet faith message. The power of this book simply sneaks up on you.
Some of my favorite quotes:
Even when it feels broken, God is still working.
Remember: God shows up in the small things-like breakfast, laughter, and the people crazy enough to sit and the table with us. Don't miss Him there.
Don't forget-this is the whole story in one verse. Kate read it aloud, her voice catching, "For God so loved the whole world, that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.
Boundaries are love with a fence.
And also...forgiveness doesn't mean opening the gate and letting the bull in.
The pastor continued. "Notice what it doesn't say. It doesn't say, 'For God so judged the world.' It doesn't say, 'For God so tolerated the world.' It doesn't say, "For God so loved the good people who got everything right.' No. It says, God so loved the world. All of it. All of us. In our mess. In our grief. In the mornings we can't get out of bed, and the nights we say words we regret. He loved. And love...gives."
Forgiveness is a decision I will make a thousand tiny times with a God who never runs out of mercy.
March 27, 2026
Okay, this is wrong. Someone deleted my review. I don't give a grade to books I didn't finish, but someone erased my review? What?
I didn't like this book. I left it at 80% or something. It wasn't funny or anything. Just Eli was a good character, but still, his laugh at moments was cringy. I know I left that book be for way too long, and I regret it.
I didn't like this book. I left it at 80% or something. It wasn't funny or anything. Just Eli was a good character, but still, his laugh at moments was cringy. I know I left that book be for way too long, and I regret it.
April 10, 2026
She has just my sense of humor I loved it
The Lumberjack From the Cabin is a cozy feel good romance full of charm laughter and heart. Kate returns to Maple Bay only to settle her aunt’s estate but her aunt’s unexpected bucket list gently pulls her into a season she never planned for
What follows is a warm story filled with quirky townspeople sweet awkward moments and a gruff neighbor who slowly becomes impossible to ignore. The humor is light and genuinely funny and the story carries a gentle uplifting tone that feels wholesome and refreshing
It is a reminder that sometimes life shifts our plans in ways that bring unexpected joy and growth and grace.
The Lumberjack From the Cabin is a cozy feel good romance full of charm laughter and heart. Kate returns to Maple Bay only to settle her aunt’s estate but her aunt’s unexpected bucket list gently pulls her into a season she never planned for
What follows is a warm story filled with quirky townspeople sweet awkward moments and a gruff neighbor who slowly becomes impossible to ignore. The humor is light and genuinely funny and the story carries a gentle uplifting tone that feels wholesome and refreshing
It is a reminder that sometimes life shifts our plans in ways that bring unexpected joy and growth and grace.
November 16, 2025
This book may stick with me forever. Don’t judge a book by its cover. There is so much depth to the story with a cute rom com on the side. I highlighted the most while reading than I ever have. I recommend this book frequently.
August 13, 2026
Well, this was totally unexpected. I mean, the book came highly recommended by a reader I trust so I knew I’d enjoy it…I just wasn’t prepared for the impact it made on me. Like being smothered in a big old bookish hug that squashed the stuffing out of me!
Because my emotions were immediately engaged despite, or maybe because, of all the hilarity. Rom/com brilliance cloaked in clever storytelling and descriptive phrasing that zings. “The trail started sweet – flat and pine-needly and very “look at me, I’m nature” – and then immediately decided to impersonate a StairMaster invented by a personal trainer with unresolved issues.”
This book was a delight to read and my copy is now mired in tabs to mark the passages I knew I would want to revisit. Colour coded even, for inspirational, snippets of wisdom, romantical and good old snazzy zingers. First time I’ve ever annotated a fiction book but the phrasing was just too luscious not to!
So, the comedy part of the story is vibrantly descriptive and full of rapid fire banter that’s laugh out loud funny. But there’s a quieter side too because Kate is on a “scavenger hunt for grace” that totally transforms this book into something much more than a rom/com.
It’s about grieving loss and finding faith; reconciliation and forgiveness. It’s messy and awkward and just a little bit heartbreaking. But hopeful too. Because Kate’s Aunt June’s wisdom lives on in her well worn bible, her written words and the memories kept alive by the people who loved her.
“June told me once that forgiveness never starts with can. It starts with can’t. You tell God you can’t do it, and He doesn’t argue. He helps.”
And the romance…oh my! Slow burn. Patient. Gentle. Expectant. Eli is the epitome of book boyfriend material. My toes haven’t quite uncurled all the way yet, but that might be because I keep revisiting the swoony bits.
“The Lumberjack From the Cabin Next Door” is my first Emily Hampton book, but it definitely won’t be my last! On the hunt for her backlist now!
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2026/08/13/t...
Because my emotions were immediately engaged despite, or maybe because, of all the hilarity. Rom/com brilliance cloaked in clever storytelling and descriptive phrasing that zings. “The trail started sweet – flat and pine-needly and very “look at me, I’m nature” – and then immediately decided to impersonate a StairMaster invented by a personal trainer with unresolved issues.”
This book was a delight to read and my copy is now mired in tabs to mark the passages I knew I would want to revisit. Colour coded even, for inspirational, snippets of wisdom, romantical and good old snazzy zingers. First time I’ve ever annotated a fiction book but the phrasing was just too luscious not to!
So, the comedy part of the story is vibrantly descriptive and full of rapid fire banter that’s laugh out loud funny. But there’s a quieter side too because Kate is on a “scavenger hunt for grace” that totally transforms this book into something much more than a rom/com.
It’s about grieving loss and finding faith; reconciliation and forgiveness. It’s messy and awkward and just a little bit heartbreaking. But hopeful too. Because Kate’s Aunt June’s wisdom lives on in her well worn bible, her written words and the memories kept alive by the people who loved her.
“June told me once that forgiveness never starts with can. It starts with can’t. You tell God you can’t do it, and He doesn’t argue. He helps.”
And the romance…oh my! Slow burn. Patient. Gentle. Expectant. Eli is the epitome of book boyfriend material. My toes haven’t quite uncurled all the way yet, but that might be because I keep revisiting the swoony bits.
“The Lumberjack From the Cabin Next Door” is my first Emily Hampton book, but it definitely won’t be my last! On the hunt for her backlist now!
https://kavsbestreads.ca/2026/08/13/t...
March 1, 2026
I wasn’t sure at first if this book would be for me, after reading the summary and starting chapter one, I honestly doubted it. But I’m so glad I kept going, because it turned out to be such a beautiful story. Kate’s journey through grief, unforgiveness, and discovering who God truly is felt deeply real and heartfelt. Eli, on the other hand, is a steadfast, genuine, kind, and hilariously charming male lead. The banter between them was off-the-charts adorable, and the friendships and community that surrounded them added so much warmth. A truly wonderful book that surprised me in the best way.
With 33 highlights I definitely found some great quotes. Some of my favorite quotes:
“June taught me that God’s love isn’t disproven by what He takes away—it’s proven by how He stays. She showed me that life’s purpose isn’t in building something impressive here, but in loving so deeply that eternity feels like going home.”
“Grief’s a thief, but it’s also a teacher. It strips us down until all that’s left is what matters. The trick is not hating the lesson.”
“June told me once that forgiveness never starts with can. It starts with can’t. You tell God you can’t do it, and He doesn’t argue. He helps.”
With 33 highlights I definitely found some great quotes. Some of my favorite quotes:
“June taught me that God’s love isn’t disproven by what He takes away—it’s proven by how He stays. She showed me that life’s purpose isn’t in building something impressive here, but in loving so deeply that eternity feels like going home.”
“Grief’s a thief, but it’s also a teacher. It strips us down until all that’s left is what matters. The trick is not hating the lesson.”
“June told me once that forgiveness never starts with can. It starts with can’t. You tell God you can’t do it, and He doesn’t argue. He helps.”
April 25, 2026
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and so I don’t know if it’s her style or just this story.
It felt all over the place and some what disjointed.
The style in the beginning was one comparison and or metaphor after another that felt scattered but then it did level off and got better.
Overall, I loved the characters and idea of this bucket list left by the aunt. I also highlighted a bunch of the wise things the aunt said.
I do wish Eli and Kate had done a few more things on the list together to make it feel not so insta-love.
But if you love insta-love you’ll like it!
My biggest complaint was the first half compared to the second half almost felt like two different books. The book felt like it was headed in one direction and then halfway took a huge turn. I still don’t understand was she in Chicago for a year or a month?
At one point it says one year later but then later says it had only been a month since she had seen Eli?
Still not sure if this author is for me but I did make it until the end and enjoyed a lot of the pieces.
It felt all over the place and some what disjointed.
The style in the beginning was one comparison and or metaphor after another that felt scattered but then it did level off and got better.
Overall, I loved the characters and idea of this bucket list left by the aunt. I also highlighted a bunch of the wise things the aunt said.
I do wish Eli and Kate had done a few more things on the list together to make it feel not so insta-love.
But if you love insta-love you’ll like it!
My biggest complaint was the first half compared to the second half almost felt like two different books. The book felt like it was headed in one direction and then halfway took a huge turn. I still don’t understand was she in Chicago for a year or a month?
At one point it says one year later but then later says it had only been a month since she had seen Eli?
Still not sure if this author is for me but I did make it until the end and enjoyed a lot of the pieces.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2025
Whimsical story about a young Chicago woman who inherits a Vermont cabin from her long lost Aunt June. Yet, there are stipulations that involves a long list of fun and adventurous things to do first. Meeting her neighbor, Eli, who helps her in accomplishing the list, they becomes friends while Harper, the bakery owner who keeps everyone on a sugar and caffeine high, includes her in the welcoming community who all loved her aunt. Yet, it becomes an emotional journey, entangled by her distant mother and increasing feelings towards Eli while being pulled back to her life in Chicago. Somehow, in all the chaos through inclusion in a church community, she learns to accept and forgive to help her move forward with the right decisions for her. Great character development, presented with a glib sense of humor amidst sparring, while maintaining one's attention throughout and resulting in an entertaining read.
July 29, 2026
DNF at chapter 8. I couldn't take the writing, I feel bad, but it was awful. Way too many similes. To such a degree that it pulled me out of the story almost immediately. And they were strange comparisons, and often didn't make sense at all. Totally unnecessary and made the writing seem amateurish. The author was trying way too hard to be quirky and funny and it ended up being so cringey.
The aunt giving the list of random things that had to be accomplished before Kate could sell the cottage... cute, but, also unrealistic and a bit cheesy. It was all just a bit too much.
I wanted to try to get through this book, because I bought a paperback copy. I normally don't buy books I haven't read for this exact reason, but I couldn't find it anywhere for free, and it was reviewed very highly. I wish I hadn't wasted my money!
Don't recommend this one
The aunt giving the list of random things that had to be accomplished before Kate could sell the cottage... cute, but, also unrealistic and a bit cheesy. It was all just a bit too much.
I wanted to try to get through this book, because I bought a paperback copy. I normally don't buy books I haven't read for this exact reason, but I couldn't find it anywhere for free, and it was reviewed very highly. I wish I hadn't wasted my money!
Don't recommend this one
October 29, 2025
One of the Best
This was one of the best fictional novels I've read. Ever. Clean. Clever. Sweet. Real. Inspiring. I almost didn't bother. Title, book cover ... Meh. Opening chapters ... half meh. So glad I kept reading!
Weird how words can can move out dusty, musty, places in your soul and replace them with clean and pure but earthy delight.
By the way, I have averaged reading 5 books a week (or the equivalent in books, journals, and articles) for decades, so "one of the best" is high praise, high praise indeed.
This was one of the best fictional novels I've read. Ever. Clean. Clever. Sweet. Real. Inspiring. I almost didn't bother. Title, book cover ... Meh. Opening chapters ... half meh. So glad I kept reading!
Weird how words can can move out dusty, musty, places in your soul and replace them with clean and pure but earthy delight.
By the way, I have averaged reading 5 books a week (or the equivalent in books, journals, and articles) for decades, so "one of the best" is high praise, high praise indeed.
October 22, 2026
absolutely superb!
To the author: Thank you for being a word sculptor. Your writing fed my heart like a continuing banquet.
Maple Bay is a welcoming place, peopled with neighborly kindnesses and a conspiracy to claim visitors as residents: A place where a wounded soul can grow and bloom, a place where the everyday can hold beauty.
This story leaves a lingering warmth. Enjoy.
To the author: Thank you for being a word sculptor. Your writing fed my heart like a continuing banquet.
Maple Bay is a welcoming place, peopled with neighborly kindnesses and a conspiracy to claim visitors as residents: A place where a wounded soul can grow and bloom, a place where the everyday can hold beauty.
This story leaves a lingering warmth. Enjoy.
January 3, 2026
Loved!
I loved this book. The story and writing style both drew me along such that I lounged and read all day!
I look forward to reading more by this author. I suspect that time will cure the little things like time-line confusion.
What a wonderful way to start my reading year.
I loved this book. The story and writing style both drew me along such that I lounged and read all day!
I look forward to reading more by this author. I suspect that time will cure the little things like time-line confusion.
What a wonderful way to start my reading year.
January 9, 2026
I don’t typically read genre romance, but as this was a rom-com, and I needed a light novel-brainer, I picked it up. It was not a funny as I had hoped, BUT the richness of the faith journeys…absolutely beautiful. I can’t thank this author enough for not making the story all about the attraction, but about being open and truthful—how novel.
April 27, 2026
The Lumberjack from the Cabin Next Door
The wit is top notch. The banter is fun. The one-liners are epic. The message is beautiful.
My only wish is that this had been edited more carefully. Definitely had inconsistencies sprinkled throughout the book that left me confused at times.
The wit is top notch. The banter is fun. The one-liners are epic. The message is beautiful.
My only wish is that this had been edited more carefully. Definitely had inconsistencies sprinkled throughout the book that left me confused at times.
June 22, 2026
Chock full of wonderful dialogue between fascinating characters, every single one of them delightfully quirky and quick witted. I laughed out loud a few times. However, the story is so loaded with similes and metaphors it became annoying. I rushed to the end just to get away from them all.
August 5, 2026
I went into this book expecting it to be cheesy, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!!! There was soooo much cheese, yet also a layer of depth, dealing with grief, and the faith elements! This book was just what I needed at this moment in time
September 26, 2026
This book was a cute Christian romance oh and a sweet lumberjack. After a family loss, a writer finds happiness in a new place but when a trial takes place what will she do? The ending was so sweet. It was a nice pallet cleanser from my normal reads
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