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Happier Here with You: A Novel
Not yet published
Expected 1 Jul 26A widowed mother finds the recipe for happiness when she visits a long-lost relative in a heart-lifting novel about family, food, and second chances.
Widowed and overworked, museum curator and food historian Maggie Brodbeck struggles to spend quality time with her five-year-old daughter, Hannah. Fueled by on-the-go meals, she doesn’t even have time to breathe, let alone pursue personal happiness. Then, out of the blue, Maggie receives an invitation from her estranged great-aunt Alice to visit her Wisconsin farm. The time has come, Magpie.
Desperate for a break, for herself and for Hannah, Maggie finds Rosehill Farm to be a revelation. In the enigmatic Alice, Maggie finds a kindred spirit. Whether baking together or just looking at the stars, they share a natural rhythm. The calming pace of country living is made even sweeter when Maggie meets the charismatic Brady, a local pastry chef.
Then Maggie opens her aunt’s treasured box of generations-old recipes and discovers the surprising threads of her heroic family history. The recipes not only shed light on the past, but reconnect Maggie to her love of cooking and to a life of contentment close to her heart—and back to herself.
Widowed and overworked, museum curator and food historian Maggie Brodbeck struggles to spend quality time with her five-year-old daughter, Hannah. Fueled by on-the-go meals, she doesn’t even have time to breathe, let alone pursue personal happiness. Then, out of the blue, Maggie receives an invitation from her estranged great-aunt Alice to visit her Wisconsin farm. The time has come, Magpie.
Desperate for a break, for herself and for Hannah, Maggie finds Rosehill Farm to be a revelation. In the enigmatic Alice, Maggie finds a kindred spirit. Whether baking together or just looking at the stars, they share a natural rhythm. The calming pace of country living is made even sweeter when Maggie meets the charismatic Brady, a local pastry chef.
Then Maggie opens her aunt’s treasured box of generations-old recipes and discovers the surprising threads of her heroic family history. The recipes not only shed light on the past, but reconnect Maggie to her love of cooking and to a life of contentment close to her heart—and back to herself.
Audible Audio
Expected publication July 1, 2026
About the author
Amy Gail Hansen
4 books84 followersAmy Gail Hansen is the author of HAPPIER HERE WITH YOU and THE BUTTERFLY SISTER. A former English teacher and journalist, Amy is also a professional food-history lecturer on topics ranging from Midwest sweets to New Orleans cuisine. She is an avid cook, baker, and reader, and never ceases to be amazed by the story of food and the remarkable ways it shapes our lives. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband and three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
June 8, 2026
I seem to be in the minority here with my review. This book felt like a Hallmark movie, and I'm not much for Hallmark movies. The storyline was very predictable, and a little sugary for my taste. I was extremely annoyed by the fact that the mother kept Alice from Maggie simply because she was embarrassed that she outsourced parenting? I figured there HAD to be some other reason, that Alice did something absolutely terrible, but there wasn't. Did Maggie not have any trauma (and memory) from being ripped from the only parent she really knew for THREE YEARS? But, man, Alice was amazing to keep writing letters to her, knowing she would get no response.
I liked learning about the Women's Land Army, something I had never heard of, and the dual timeline wasn't annoying for this. I admit that I rolled my eyes the first time, but then I came to enjoy seeing things through Rose's eyes.
Some reviewers say the characters were well-fleshed out, but I disagree. I felt they were shallow. And some of the interactions left me wondering what sort of emotion I was supposed to be getting from it, because it was all she said this, he said that, with no indication of HOW things were said.
I did like how food and homemaking featured in the book, that they are still valuable. It has taken me 30 years to realize how important homemaking is, whether you work outside the home or not. Knowing how to create a comfortable home is important either way.
I still give the book 3 stars because I did keep reading it. It was predictable, but I still had to make sure. It almost felt like a first draft outline, though, and could have been so much better.
I liked learning about the Women's Land Army, something I had never heard of, and the dual timeline wasn't annoying for this. I admit that I rolled my eyes the first time, but then I came to enjoy seeing things through Rose's eyes.
Some reviewers say the characters were well-fleshed out, but I disagree. I felt they were shallow. And some of the interactions left me wondering what sort of emotion I was supposed to be getting from it, because it was all she said this, he said that, with no indication of HOW things were said.
I did like how food and homemaking featured in the book, that they are still valuable. It has taken me 30 years to realize how important homemaking is, whether you work outside the home or not. Knowing how to create a comfortable home is important either way.
I still give the book 3 stars because I did keep reading it. It was predictable, but I still had to make sure. It almost felt like a first draft outline, though, and could have been so much better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2026
4 stars. Folks, this is why I have moved to the country. This was like a warm blanket on a cold night, just a nice comfort book. Not brilliantly written or anything. It was just a lovely feel good novel.
June 8, 2026
AMAZING-pulled my heartstrings in the best way!
Thanks “kindle first reads” or I wouldn’t have ever heard of this author or book. LOVED each character and the story was soooo wonderful!! My heart felt light, happy encouraged and sometimes sad (but not in a bad way) Wish so much our wonderful country and its people were as united as back in the times of Rose. War is awful nomatter when or where but wish we still had unity and family and community..
Thanks “kindle first reads” or I wouldn’t have ever heard of this author or book. LOVED each character and the story was soooo wonderful!! My heart felt light, happy encouraged and sometimes sad (but not in a bad way) Wish so much our wonderful country and its people were as united as back in the times of Rose. War is awful nomatter when or where but wish we still had unity and family and community..
June 16, 2026
A charming story about life and cooking. Alice and Hannah are fascinating characters and bring the story to life. Add in food as a main character, with recipes at the back of the book, and you’ve got me.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
June 19, 2026
3.5. light and heartwarming. It was a fairly predictable storyline, and felt very Hallmark feel-good. However, having just read a few “heavier” books, Hallmark is what I needed!
June 12, 2026
Wonderful summer read
This is the first book I’ve read by Amy Hansen, but I’ll definitely look for more. Great story, a bit of mystery with bits to keep you wondering. Didn’t want it to end!
This is the first book I’ve read by Amy Hansen, but I’ll definitely look for more. Great story, a bit of mystery with bits to keep you wondering. Didn’t want it to end!
June 16, 2026
Surprising First Read from Prime. I fell in love with all of the characters. This did not disappoint!
June 9, 2026
Was not expecting to enjoy this book so much. So many unexpected themes - it was just an all-around sweet, happy story about the things that matter most.
Review of advance copy
4.5 ⭐️ Time to grow like wild! Happier Here With You is a story about finding your true purpose & connection to where you came from. It’s the kind of delicious story Nancy Meyers would cook up if she was from the Midwest. Prepare for major kitchen envy, with a side of historical fiction and romance.
Loved learning about the WLA farmerettes! It’s really amazing how much loving efficiency can get done when you get a good group of women together.
For those you who understand the power and community of food… this one is for you.
Loved learning about the WLA farmerettes! It’s really amazing how much loving efficiency can get done when you get a good group of women together.
For those you who understand the power and community of food… this one is for you.
June 3, 2026
Blast from the past
Maggie is a single mother raising her 5 year old daughter after her husband dies. She is contracted by her great aunt who lives in a small town. Supposedly the two never met, but that turns out to not to be true. Maggie and her daughter love the town and she meets a man who runs a camp for people who like to cook. There are mysteries surrounding her great grandmother and the women who lived with her during the war. The book was great and couldn’t wait to find out more. Thought for sure that the great aunt was going to turn out to be Maggie’s grandmother, so was glad that that didn’t happen.
Maggie is a single mother raising her 5 year old daughter after her husband dies. She is contracted by her great aunt who lives in a small town. Supposedly the two never met, but that turns out to not to be true. Maggie and her daughter love the town and she meets a man who runs a camp for people who like to cook. There are mysteries surrounding her great grandmother and the women who lived with her during the war. The book was great and couldn’t wait to find out more. Thought for sure that the great aunt was going to turn out to be Maggie’s grandmother, so was glad that that didn’t happen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2026
I freakin’ loved it
I believe that books find us when we need them, and this lovely book confirms that fact. I quickly got sucked into the story of Maggie, a busy mom and widow feeling lost in her own life.
It’s full of midwestern charm, memories of summers with grandma, and reminders that families are messy and beautiful. And it will get you itching to get in the kitchen and start creating.
I believe that books find us when we need them, and this lovely book confirms that fact. I quickly got sucked into the story of Maggie, a busy mom and widow feeling lost in her own life.
It’s full of midwestern charm, memories of summers with grandma, and reminders that families are messy and beautiful. And it will get you itching to get in the kitchen and start creating.
June 15, 2026
Delicious, from start to finish
The story unfolds like a misty morning that gives way to gentle sunshine. It’s an ensemble cast of characters with nuances and layers that fit together so well,
A really enjoyable read which shines a light on wartime stories so often overlooked exploring the recurring themes of strong women, the important part that role models play in our lives and what happens when secrets and memories intertwine.
Wonderful book.
The story unfolds like a misty morning that gives way to gentle sunshine. It’s an ensemble cast of characters with nuances and layers that fit together so well,
A really enjoyable read which shines a light on wartime stories so often overlooked exploring the recurring themes of strong women, the important part that role models play in our lives and what happens when secrets and memories intertwine.
Wonderful book.
June 15, 2026
BEAUTIFUL Story Full of Life and Love!
I truly enjoyed the author’s storyline and really didn’t want the book to end! Her descriptions of childhood memories with grandparents on a farm reminded me very much of my earliest memories (age 2-3) in the same setting. I’m 72 now, but this book brought all my happiest childhood memories to the present. It made me feel so happy and content.
I truly enjoyed the author’s storyline and really didn’t want the book to end! Her descriptions of childhood memories with grandparents on a farm reminded me very much of my earliest memories (age 2-3) in the same setting. I’m 72 now, but this book brought all my happiest childhood memories to the present. It made me feel so happy and content.
June 12, 2026
A lovely multi-gen story
I so genuinely enjoyed this story as each bit unfolded, and I also liked the chapter jumps from present day to the other storyline in the 1940s.
It was a pleasure to read about characters who were true to life as well as the caring and goodness of their personalities.
Well written!
I so genuinely enjoyed this story as each bit unfolded, and I also liked the chapter jumps from present day to the other storyline in the 1940s.
It was a pleasure to read about characters who were true to life as well as the caring and goodness of their personalities.
Well written!
June 11, 2026
Wonderful feel good story! Although the last two books I read had some commonalities (young widow, five year old daughter, mathematician mother), this one had a double timeline narrative that worked at keeping the story moving along. The foodie-farm-friends as family and instant connection themes were heart warming and delicious. I loved everything about this book.
June 15, 2026
Very Good Book
I loved this book. It all seemed so real. No major drama, no unbelievable love-at-first-sight issues, just real people with real emotions. You felt the people’s real feelings and lived the moments with them. Definitely recommend.
I loved this book. It all seemed so real. No major drama, no unbelievable love-at-first-sight issues, just real people with real emotions. You felt the people’s real feelings and lived the moments with them. Definitely recommend.
June 15, 2026
Loved reading this book
This was an easy read as I fell on love with the characters. The storytelling and character development was superb. I wanted to visit the far!m and cook in the kitchen
This was an easy read as I fell on love with the characters. The storytelling and character development was superb. I wanted to visit the far!m and cook in the kitchen
June 6, 2026
This book completely captured my heart from beginning to end. It was emotional, comforting, and beautifully written in a way that made me feel deeply connected to the characters and their journey. Every chapter pulled me in more, and I found myself smiling, reflecting, and even tearing up at times. It reminds us the importance the role of food and cooking can have during difficult times. How it can bring people together.
What I loved most was how relatable and heartfelt the story felt. It reminded me of the importance of love, healing, and finding happiness in the people and places that truly matter. The writing was easy to fall into, and the emotions stayed with me long after I finished the last page.
This is the kind of book you never want to end, and I already know I’ll be thinking about it for a long time. Absolutely recommend to anyone looking for a touching, uplifting, and unforgettable read!
What I loved most was how relatable and heartfelt the story felt. It reminded me of the importance of love, healing, and finding happiness in the people and places that truly matter. The writing was easy to fall into, and the emotions stayed with me long after I finished the last page.
This is the kind of book you never want to end, and I already know I’ll be thinking about it for a long time. Absolutely recommend to anyone looking for a touching, uplifting, and unforgettable read!
June 6, 2026
This was so sweet!
June 9, 2026
Feel Good Story
Although this story is filled with loss and disappointments, overall it is a positive, feel good tale that is filled with hope and promise. The main characters triumph despite setbacks and love abounds.. Hansen did a great job of weaving numerous emotions into a very relatable, warm story. At some points, I felt things came together a little too cleanly and smoothly. Nevertheless, it was a most enjoyable read, and I recommend this book.
Although this story is filled with loss and disappointments, overall it is a positive, feel good tale that is filled with hope and promise. The main characters triumph despite setbacks and love abounds.. Hansen did a great job of weaving numerous emotions into a very relatable, warm story. At some points, I felt things came together a little too cleanly and smoothly. Nevertheless, it was a most enjoyable read, and I recommend this book.
June 11, 2026
A sweet, touching read
This was a lovely story with multiple stories running parallel to each other, only to tie up in a tender bow at the end. I highly recommend as a light summer read or a cozy curl up with tea book.
This was a lovely story with multiple stories running parallel to each other, only to tie up in a tender bow at the end. I highly recommend as a light summer read or a cozy curl up with tea book.
June 11, 2026
just what I neeeded
This is a book like a warm hug. It was comforting and heart rending. The characters evoke warmth and love. sometimes you just need to leave the city behind and relax I'm he country.
This is a book like a warm hug. It was comforting and heart rending. The characters evoke warmth and love. sometimes you just need to leave the city behind and relax I'm he country.
June 19, 2026
Touched my heart like a warm hug - and I learned some history!!
June 24, 2026
Absolutely so wholesome from beginning to end!! Highly recommend
June 9, 2026
So enjoyable!
What a wonderful and relaxing read. So few novels today kept you engaged and happy but this one does. While the characters have their ups and downs the reader isn't left hanging for each issues conclusion. It was the most relaxing, well written book that I have read in a very long time.
What a wonderful and relaxing read. So few novels today kept you engaged and happy but this one does. While the characters have their ups and downs the reader isn't left hanging for each issues conclusion. It was the most relaxing, well written book that I have read in a very long time.
June 10, 2026
Farm life
Lots of interesting characters whose lives are formed by grief and happiness. Get a glimpse into these people from WWII era to present as they seek living out their dreams. And there is always food involved! I wish some of the recipes were included.
Lots of interesting characters whose lives are formed by grief and happiness. Get a glimpse into these people from WWII era to present as they seek living out their dreams. And there is always food involved! I wish some of the recipes were included.
June 11, 2026
Great Read!
I would highly recommend this book. I loved following the history of all the women from the past and their story and lives at Rosehill Farm.
I would highly recommend this book. I loved following the history of all the women from the past and their story and lives at Rosehill Farm.
June 24, 2026
Really good book!
I loved the interplay between the historical tale and the modern tale. It is truly a feel-good story with a few surprises.
I loved the interplay between the historical tale and the modern tale. It is truly a feel-good story with a few surprises.
June 24, 2026
Super cute actually. How love of food and love and togetherness are imperative to the human experience.
June 4, 2026
Finding Your Roots
I truly enjoyed this book finding it very real as it started with an overwhelmed single mother. She suddenly learns of a past she really didn’t remember but one that was hidden in her memories. Even though, as a reader, you realize exactly what will be happening, it is a delight to read/watch it all come together.
Since I live in a small town that values its history, I enjoyed reading a story of a family discovering their history and the history of the home where they lived and loved. Homes and buildings listed in the National Register are valuable and so worth saving, as discovered in this story.
This story reminds us that love can overcome so much and that yes, where there is a will, there is a way.
I truly enjoyed this book finding it very real as it started with an overwhelmed single mother. She suddenly learns of a past she really didn’t remember but one that was hidden in her memories. Even though, as a reader, you realize exactly what will be happening, it is a delight to read/watch it all come together.
Since I live in a small town that values its history, I enjoyed reading a story of a family discovering their history and the history of the home where they lived and loved. Homes and buildings listed in the National Register are valuable and so worth saving, as discovered in this story.
This story reminds us that love can overcome so much and that yes, where there is a will, there is a way.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews