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For My Encore
Love wasn’t on the setlist. But it might be the encore.
When Grammy-winning rockstar Raven escapes to the sleepy village of Bankton to write her first solo album after a spectacular breakup, there’s one No Women. Then her relentlessly cheerful neighbor walks in on her. Naked.
Primary school teacher Annabelle Swift believes in happy endings, the power of baked goods, and that everyone could use a little sunshine. But her grumpy new neighbor is allergic to optimism, boundaries, and, apparently, clothes.
So when a village fundraiser to save the school library forces them together, neither Annabelle nor Raven’s exactly thrilled. Cue disastrous rehearsals, paparazzi invasions, guitar lessons for heartbroken eight-year-olds, and… feelings neither of them expected.
But Raven’s stay was always temporary, and Annabelle's never been good at asking for what she really wants. When the tabloids turn their charity event into a scandal and Raven's past comes crashing down, can two vastly different women find a way to harmonize?
For My Encore is a grumpy-sunshine, opposites-attract sapphic romcom about disastrous first impressions, accidental nudity, and finding home in unexpected places, from bestselling Sapphic writer Sienna Waters, author of For My Finale, The Farmer Has a Wife, and The Wrong Date. It is part of the Bankton Books series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
When Grammy-winning rockstar Raven escapes to the sleepy village of Bankton to write her first solo album after a spectacular breakup, there’s one No Women. Then her relentlessly cheerful neighbor walks in on her. Naked.
Primary school teacher Annabelle Swift believes in happy endings, the power of baked goods, and that everyone could use a little sunshine. But her grumpy new neighbor is allergic to optimism, boundaries, and, apparently, clothes.
So when a village fundraiser to save the school library forces them together, neither Annabelle nor Raven’s exactly thrilled. Cue disastrous rehearsals, paparazzi invasions, guitar lessons for heartbroken eight-year-olds, and… feelings neither of them expected.
But Raven’s stay was always temporary, and Annabelle's never been good at asking for what she really wants. When the tabloids turn their charity event into a scandal and Raven's past comes crashing down, can two vastly different women find a way to harmonize?
For My Encore is a grumpy-sunshine, opposites-attract sapphic romcom about disastrous first impressions, accidental nudity, and finding home in unexpected places, from bestselling Sapphic writer Sienna Waters, author of For My Finale, The Farmer Has a Wife, and The Wrong Date. It is part of the Bankton Books series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 13, 2026
I absolutely devoured this book. I’m pretty sure it took me less than a day, every single free time I had was devoted to this. I couldn’t put it down as it usually happens with a Sienna Waters book. She’s always an auto buy for me.
It’s an opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine small town romance. I identify more on the grumpy side so, despite not happening while reading, Annabelle would annoy me if I ever met her. I would have liked to see a bit more towards the end on how they worked out those years together being long distance. I always love small town people who meddle in everything, with good intentions and I really enjoyed Arty’s character being a support for Raven.
Thank you to Sienna Waters and BookSprout for providing me with an eARC.
It’s an opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine small town romance. I identify more on the grumpy side so, despite not happening while reading, Annabelle would annoy me if I ever met her. I would have liked to see a bit more towards the end on how they worked out those years together being long distance. I always love small town people who meddle in everything, with good intentions and I really enjoyed Arty’s character being a support for Raven.
Thank you to Sienna Waters and BookSprout for providing me with an eARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2026
2.5⭐️ Rounded Up
Ms. Grumpy Rockstar meets Overly Sunshine school teacher. This is the second standalone book in the Bankton book series…. and it was very underwhelming compared to the first one.
I seriously had the hardest time liking Annabelle, because to be honest she annoyed me. The way both Annabelle and Raven got together just didn’t flow well and it felt forced. It was like at first Raven thought she was super over the top and annoying, and the next thing they were together. There was really no in-between.
The biggest problem for me was the MCs, they just didn’t feel like they were meant to be together. There was a lack of details throughout, and the whole romance just felt super rushed. I think if the MCs were more likable, it could’ve been different.
This one just felt too short, too rushed, and felt half-wrote.
Ms. Grumpy Rockstar meets Overly Sunshine school teacher. This is the second standalone book in the Bankton book series…. and it was very underwhelming compared to the first one.
I seriously had the hardest time liking Annabelle, because to be honest she annoyed me. The way both Annabelle and Raven got together just didn’t flow well and it felt forced. It was like at first Raven thought she was super over the top and annoying, and the next thing they were together. There was really no in-between.
The biggest problem for me was the MCs, they just didn’t feel like they were meant to be together. There was a lack of details throughout, and the whole romance just felt super rushed. I think if the MCs were more likable, it could’ve been different.
This one just felt too short, too rushed, and felt half-wrote.
May 7, 2026
Many thanks to Booksprout and author Sienna Waters for this ARC. I am very happy to share my honest review.
I have become a huge Sienna Waters fan and I was absolutely stoked to get my hands on an early copy of her latest book! Plus, I loved For My Finale, the previous book in this series, and couldn't wait to read For My Encore. First off, you needn't have read the first book to enjoy this one but I highly encourage it because it's an awesome read. I was thrilled to head back to cozy Bankton for this wonderful rom com. I totally adored this book and found myself laughing out loud and happily smiling throughout. For My Encore is a lighthearted, smile-inducing opposites attract sapphic romcom that kept me happily entertained.
I always enjoy Waters' signature brand of sweet and funny sapphic romance with a healthy dose of emotion and warmth. I couldn't help but laugh at the opening scene of Raven being confronted with a bull in the middle of the road. My mind went back to For My Finale and the havoc that bull caused early on. I was just so thrilled to be back in Bankton with all the cast of fabulously loveable, sweet and quirky characters. THere must be something in the water of Bankton because it turns celebrities who live a life of chaos into people who fall victim to the quiet charm of the town and its people. It's like Bankton takes lost people and makes them found. Such is the case in this wonderul opposites attract sapphic romance.
Raven is a famous musician that abruptly leaves her band and life behind when her bandmate/girlfriend gets married…and not to her. It's painful and overwhelming and Raven decides she needs to reset. Well, where better to gather her thoughts and emotions and heal than the sweetest little village ever! I want to live in Bankton! She meets Annabelle, Bankton's resident school teacher who gives all of herself to her students, her friends, her village, everyone really. She is the most kind, genuine, selfless person ever and I was quite smitten with her right away. She just makes me want to hug her tight and not let go. She brings a basket over to Raven full of sweet lemon biscuits that she backed to welcome her as her neighbor. That is so sweet! Okay, so she may want to address the extremely loud music coming from Ravens cottage…but most lists the welcome thing. She sort of walks into Raven coming out of the shower in all her tattooed glory and their initial meeting is kind of blown up. Not to worry, this is Bankton after all where celebrities run away to and end up falling in love with a kind hearted villager.
Raven and Annabelele are neighbors and after their first meeting you'd think they'd never speak again. Thank goodness, that's not the case. They both felt an initial spark of attraction and what develops is a sugary sweet love story that I can't stop thinking about. They made a bit of headway after Raven apologizes for accidentally recording Annabel in her dino pj’s during a livestream. I think Raven was taken aback at Annabelle's genuine kindness and forgiving nature. Yes, they are different. Annabelle is optimistic in its purest form and Raven embodies the human form of grumpy cat but things gradually progress in a natural and fun to read way. Raven agrees to help out by teaching Annabel's class a song for the library fundraiser and that adds just the right ingredients for our two to find their own recipe…or something just as corny. I enjoyed watching them catch feelings without admitting that was what was happening. Their chemistry was electric and their connection developed into something real. Okay, so nothing worth having ever comes easily and things get upended, Raven leaves and I was sad…but only briefly. This is a Sienna Waters book after all so I needn't have worried about getting to read about a sweet, earned and well deserved happy ending!
The writing is fantastic as usual. Waters delivers a funny, sweet and well developed grumpy sunshine sapphic love story. I became quite enamored with Annablell and found her to be irresistible. She and Annabelle complement each other perfectly and I was stoked to seem them work it all out. I very much enjoy Sienna Waters' signature use of humor and emotion. I loved the banter between Annabelle and Ravena and felt the buildup and more was on point. The emotional pacing works great and I was happily entertained until the very last page.
Bottom line, if you are in the mood for a tender romance with a ton of humor and strong characters, this is for you! Highly recommended!
I have become a huge Sienna Waters fan and I was absolutely stoked to get my hands on an early copy of her latest book! Plus, I loved For My Finale, the previous book in this series, and couldn't wait to read For My Encore. First off, you needn't have read the first book to enjoy this one but I highly encourage it because it's an awesome read. I was thrilled to head back to cozy Bankton for this wonderful rom com. I totally adored this book and found myself laughing out loud and happily smiling throughout. For My Encore is a lighthearted, smile-inducing opposites attract sapphic romcom that kept me happily entertained.
I always enjoy Waters' signature brand of sweet and funny sapphic romance with a healthy dose of emotion and warmth. I couldn't help but laugh at the opening scene of Raven being confronted with a bull in the middle of the road. My mind went back to For My Finale and the havoc that bull caused early on. I was just so thrilled to be back in Bankton with all the cast of fabulously loveable, sweet and quirky characters. THere must be something in the water of Bankton because it turns celebrities who live a life of chaos into people who fall victim to the quiet charm of the town and its people. It's like Bankton takes lost people and makes them found. Such is the case in this wonderul opposites attract sapphic romance.
Raven is a famous musician that abruptly leaves her band and life behind when her bandmate/girlfriend gets married…and not to her. It's painful and overwhelming and Raven decides she needs to reset. Well, where better to gather her thoughts and emotions and heal than the sweetest little village ever! I want to live in Bankton! She meets Annabelle, Bankton's resident school teacher who gives all of herself to her students, her friends, her village, everyone really. She is the most kind, genuine, selfless person ever and I was quite smitten with her right away. She just makes me want to hug her tight and not let go. She brings a basket over to Raven full of sweet lemon biscuits that she backed to welcome her as her neighbor. That is so sweet! Okay, so she may want to address the extremely loud music coming from Ravens cottage…but most lists the welcome thing. She sort of walks into Raven coming out of the shower in all her tattooed glory and their initial meeting is kind of blown up. Not to worry, this is Bankton after all where celebrities run away to and end up falling in love with a kind hearted villager.
Raven and Annabelele are neighbors and after their first meeting you'd think they'd never speak again. Thank goodness, that's not the case. They both felt an initial spark of attraction and what develops is a sugary sweet love story that I can't stop thinking about. They made a bit of headway after Raven apologizes for accidentally recording Annabel in her dino pj’s during a livestream. I think Raven was taken aback at Annabelle's genuine kindness and forgiving nature. Yes, they are different. Annabelle is optimistic in its purest form and Raven embodies the human form of grumpy cat but things gradually progress in a natural and fun to read way. Raven agrees to help out by teaching Annabel's class a song for the library fundraiser and that adds just the right ingredients for our two to find their own recipe…or something just as corny. I enjoyed watching them catch feelings without admitting that was what was happening. Their chemistry was electric and their connection developed into something real. Okay, so nothing worth having ever comes easily and things get upended, Raven leaves and I was sad…but only briefly. This is a Sienna Waters book after all so I needn't have worried about getting to read about a sweet, earned and well deserved happy ending!
The writing is fantastic as usual. Waters delivers a funny, sweet and well developed grumpy sunshine sapphic love story. I became quite enamored with Annablell and found her to be irresistible. She and Annabelle complement each other perfectly and I was stoked to seem them work it all out. I very much enjoy Sienna Waters' signature use of humor and emotion. I loved the banter between Annabelle and Ravena and felt the buildup and more was on point. The emotional pacing works great and I was happily entertained until the very last page.
Bottom line, if you are in the mood for a tender romance with a ton of humor and strong characters, this is for you! Highly recommended!
May 3, 2026
I loved the whole story. It really took a hold of my heart and yes I shed some tears with this one. The characters are real and relatable. Raven and Annabelle may be opposites in many ways, but they are exactly what each other needs. I want to live in one of theses small villages.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 14, 2026
For My Encore is a grumpy/sunshine, sapphic romance featuring Raven and Annabelle Swift.
Guitarist and songwriter, Raven, was part of the band Krimson Kisses but she walked away when her ex, Alissa, the band's bassist, got married in Las Vegas without saying a word. She wanted to get out of the spotlight and went to a small town called Bankton. She was hopeful that the distance would help her find her voice. She rented a small cottage and planned to work on starting her solo career. What she didn't plan on was her next door neighbour.
Annabelle was a Year Three school teacher who loved her job and loved the kids. She was perpetually upbeat and optimistic, and certain she could find a solution for every problem. When she learned that the school's library would be closed due to financial constraints, she promptly went into problem solving mode and planned a variety of ways to raise the much needed funds.
Raven had no intention of mingling with the locals. She tried to decline Annabelle's invitation to participate, but it is hard to say no to Annabelle. As they work together, they spend more time together and grow closer.
This was a cute, humorous, opposites attract story. I related more to Raven than Annabelle as I am not all sunshine and rainbows. It was difficult to see how these two could connect, but Winters made it work. The characters unexpectedly balance each other. If you're looking for a lighthearted, entertaining, sapphic read, you'll want to check this one out.
Guitarist and songwriter, Raven, was part of the band Krimson Kisses but she walked away when her ex, Alissa, the band's bassist, got married in Las Vegas without saying a word. She wanted to get out of the spotlight and went to a small town called Bankton. She was hopeful that the distance would help her find her voice. She rented a small cottage and planned to work on starting her solo career. What she didn't plan on was her next door neighbour.
Annabelle was a Year Three school teacher who loved her job and loved the kids. She was perpetually upbeat and optimistic, and certain she could find a solution for every problem. When she learned that the school's library would be closed due to financial constraints, she promptly went into problem solving mode and planned a variety of ways to raise the much needed funds.
Raven had no intention of mingling with the locals. She tried to decline Annabelle's invitation to participate, but it is hard to say no to Annabelle. As they work together, they spend more time together and grow closer.
This was a cute, humorous, opposites attract story. I related more to Raven than Annabelle as I am not all sunshine and rainbows. It was difficult to see how these two could connect, but Winters made it work. The characters unexpectedly balance each other. If you're looking for a lighthearted, entertaining, sapphic read, you'll want to check this one out.
May 8, 2026
Revisiting the village of Bankton with its usual group of quirky characters, including our MC Annabelle, who is the ever happy, positive, ray of sunshine. Enter Raven, a grumpy and depressed rock star in full escape mode. The result is a really enjoyable and entertaining read with an uplifting HEA.
And for me, the book is a ‘sea change’ type call to a quaint English village to meet all the characters. I desperately need to teleport there.
I received an ARC copy and this is a genuine review.
And for me, the book is a ‘sea change’ type call to a quaint English village to meet all the characters. I desperately need to teleport there.
I received an ARC copy and this is a genuine review.
May 26, 2026
This is a gorgeous opposites attract love story! Raven is a rock star dealing with being humiliated when her recent ex marries a man in Vegas. So she quits the band and rents a cottage in the village of Bankton. She needs to write an album, but she can't find the music in her. Then she meets her neighbor Annabelle, a primary school teacher , all sunshine and sweetness.
This story is hard to put down, it reads easily! I LOVE THIS BOOK!I ADORE THIS BOOK! 5 stars!!
This story is hard to put down, it reads easily! I LOVE THIS BOOK!I ADORE THIS BOOK! 5 stars!!
May 23, 2026
Awesome as always
I never know what to write for these reviews. I liked this book, it's fun, it's romantic and perfectlybimperfect. Read the book and you'll understand the last part. The book is good, the author is awesome as usual. Enjoy!
I never know what to write for these reviews. I liked this book, it's fun, it's romantic and perfectlybimperfect. Read the book and you'll understand the last part. The book is good, the author is awesome as usual. Enjoy!
May 11, 2026
a rockstar comes to town..
what a wonderful book. I will admit to crying through a few of the chapters. Would Raven realize that Annabelle was the best thing to happen to her. And what a group of townsfolk they (Arty, Gloria, Lily, Nina, Daisy, Jamie) pop off the page. Feels like going home. Thankfully Raven and Annabelle get their HEA.
I’ve loved all of Sienna’s books she certainly makes you feel part of the story. I couldn’t put this book down
what a wonderful book. I will admit to crying through a few of the chapters. Would Raven realize that Annabelle was the best thing to happen to her. And what a group of townsfolk they (Arty, Gloria, Lily, Nina, Daisy, Jamie) pop off the page. Feels like going home. Thankfully Raven and Annabelle get their HEA.
I’ve loved all of Sienna’s books she certainly makes you feel part of the story. I couldn’t put this book down
May 10, 2026
Loved it!!!
I love everything by this author. It's laugh out loud funny, heartfelt, and relatable. The characters are amazing. Can't wait to read all of her books.
I love everything by this author. It's laugh out loud funny, heartfelt, and relatable. The characters are amazing. Can't wait to read all of her books.
Review of advance copy
Grumpy rock star goes to the lovely village of Bankton to get away for a while or hide depending on point of view. She is won over by the all the locals but mainly by her neighbour who is scarily cheerful and optimistic.
Quick easy read with just about the right amount of angst before the HEA. Likeable characters and an enjoyable read that I recommend.
(You don’t need to read FM Finale first to enjoy this one but it is set in the same world.).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Quick easy read with just about the right amount of angst before the HEA. Likeable characters and an enjoyable read that I recommend.
(You don’t need to read FM Finale first to enjoy this one but it is set in the same world.).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 8, 2026
For my Encore
I loved the characters and the storyline.
Get this author's books and then leave your reviews. Thank you for using Kindle Unlimited.
I loved the characters and the storyline.
Get this author's books and then leave your reviews. Thank you for using Kindle Unlimited.
May 9, 2026
Encore is an emotional, beautifully written romance that completely pulled me in from the first chapter. Sienna Waters creates characters that feel real and relatable, with chemistry that’s impossible not to root for. The story balances heartfelt moments, tension, and warmth perfectly, making it a genuinely satisfying read. I finished it with a smile and immediately wanted more. Highly recommended for anyone who loves character-driven romance with plenty of emotion.
May 18, 2026
Annabelle is a primary school teacher in a small village in England. She is a perpetually smiling, enthusiastic and rather naive, trusting person. She thinks a sunshine smile, constant agreement and hard work will solve every problem.
Raven is a somewhat grumpy rock star, moving to a small village to escape a breakup. She was raised in foster homes, thinking she couldn’t rely on anybody. So before people could let her down, she would move on, run away.
This is a very typical grumpy/sunshine story, but in some ways Raven and Annabelle are similar - never communicating well, never asking the other what they want, just assuming. Annabelle always assumes she can fix any problem, by agreeing and never really saying how she feels. Raven always assumes the worst, and so escapes before the difficult decisions have to be made. They are like two ships that pass in the night, always saying what they think the other wants to hear, or not saying anything. This is what causes the obligatory breakup. Up to this point I loved the story, but I felt that the finale let the whole thing down. It’s lovely, but a bit underwhelming. They build so much together, but we never really see it all come to fruition.
I loved it, but Sienna Waters has written far better stories.
Raven is a somewhat grumpy rock star, moving to a small village to escape a breakup. She was raised in foster homes, thinking she couldn’t rely on anybody. So before people could let her down, she would move on, run away.
This is a very typical grumpy/sunshine story, but in some ways Raven and Annabelle are similar - never communicating well, never asking the other what they want, just assuming. Annabelle always assumes she can fix any problem, by agreeing and never really saying how she feels. Raven always assumes the worst, and so escapes before the difficult decisions have to be made. They are like two ships that pass in the night, always saying what they think the other wants to hear, or not saying anything. This is what causes the obligatory breakup. Up to this point I loved the story, but I felt that the finale let the whole thing down. It’s lovely, but a bit underwhelming. They build so much together, but we never really see it all come to fruition.
I loved it, but Sienna Waters has written far better stories.
May 9, 2026
Love and lemon biscuits
A fun, opposites attract, romance. Two women who find harmony in their differences. As with the first Bankson story, the supporting caste, make it all that much better. Although it was a tiny bit disappointing that Blossom was almost completely absent and Lilah MIA, even for a cameo.
A fun, opposites attract, romance. Two women who find harmony in their differences. As with the first Bankson story, the supporting caste, make it all that much better. Although it was a tiny bit disappointing that Blossom was almost completely absent and Lilah MIA, even for a cameo.
Review of advance copy
For My Encore by Sienna Waters is another cozy small-town romance. Her formulaic writing style always delivers the feel-good happily-ever-after that we deserve. Sienna Waters is an auto-read for me. I know exactly what to expect, and I look forward to her books.
This novel features a burned-out musician seeking solace in the small town of Bankton, which is described as “charmingly eccentric.” Naturally, she meets her overly friendly neighbor and the well-meaning but in-your-face, in-your-business townsfolk. They immediately draw her into the community and begin to melt her icy heart.
Annabelle and Raven are endearing characters who balance each other well and are incredibly sweet together. I enjoyed the story of their romance, the town “cause” they all rally behind, the interfering friends, and the inclusion of adorable children. Special mentions go to the sweet Jamie and the wise Arty. I also liked the intimate moments between Annabelle and Raven, when they simply needed to be still and close to each other.
There’s a third-act breakup and a grand gesture to top it all off, along with a lovely epilogue.
My one-star deduction was due to some repetition, particularly regarding Annabelle trying to fix things. Still, I really enjoyed the story, and it left me feeling happy.
Quoteworthy:
"And of course there was a smiley face at the end. Of course there was. Raven looked at the tin of biscuits. Then back at the note. Then at the biscuits again. She should throw them away. She should march straight over to next door and tell this relentlessly cheerful woman to stop leaving things on her doorstep, stop being so understanding about everything, and absolutely stop acting like they were going to be friends. Instead, she unlocked her door, carried everything inside, and opened the tin. Fine. She was hungry. So sue her. The biscuits were perfect-looking. Lemon, by the smell of them, with a hint of vanilla and what might have been a touch of lavender. Raven took one. Bit into it. "Damn it," she said aloud. They were delicious."
I know this is a long quote, but it made me chuckle and perfectly sums up Raven's personality and relationship with Annabelle.
#cutekids #foundfamily #smalltown #England #UK #cozy #oppositesattract #celebrity #grumpysunshine #blackcatgoldenretriever #musician #singer #teacher #library #Englishcountryside #publiclifeprivatelife #rural #cottage #romcom #paparazzi #HEA #epilogue
I received a review copy from Booksprout. This is my honest opinion.
This novel features a burned-out musician seeking solace in the small town of Bankton, which is described as “charmingly eccentric.” Naturally, she meets her overly friendly neighbor and the well-meaning but in-your-face, in-your-business townsfolk. They immediately draw her into the community and begin to melt her icy heart.
Annabelle and Raven are endearing characters who balance each other well and are incredibly sweet together. I enjoyed the story of their romance, the town “cause” they all rally behind, the interfering friends, and the inclusion of adorable children. Special mentions go to the sweet Jamie and the wise Arty. I also liked the intimate moments between Annabelle and Raven, when they simply needed to be still and close to each other.
There’s a third-act breakup and a grand gesture to top it all off, along with a lovely epilogue.
My one-star deduction was due to some repetition, particularly regarding Annabelle trying to fix things. Still, I really enjoyed the story, and it left me feeling happy.
Quoteworthy:
"And of course there was a smiley face at the end. Of course there was. Raven looked at the tin of biscuits. Then back at the note. Then at the biscuits again. She should throw them away. She should march straight over to next door and tell this relentlessly cheerful woman to stop leaving things on her doorstep, stop being so understanding about everything, and absolutely stop acting like they were going to be friends. Instead, she unlocked her door, carried everything inside, and opened the tin. Fine. She was hungry. So sue her. The biscuits were perfect-looking. Lemon, by the smell of them, with a hint of vanilla and what might have been a touch of lavender. Raven took one. Bit into it. "Damn it," she said aloud. They were delicious."
I know this is a long quote, but it made me chuckle and perfectly sums up Raven's personality and relationship with Annabelle.
#cutekids #foundfamily #smalltown #England #UK #cozy #oppositesattract #celebrity #grumpysunshine #blackcatgoldenretriever #musician #singer #teacher #library #Englishcountryside #publiclifeprivatelife #rural #cottage #romcom #paparazzi #HEA #epilogue
I received a review copy from Booksprout. This is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy
Return to Bankton. Billy is waiting.
Annabelle Swift is the reason I love Sapphic romance novels. Annabelle and her like-minded sisters across the Lesbian Romance genre bring joy to my heart and help ease my troubled mind. Annabelle represents that person we all long to be friends with: cheerful, optimistic, and—most importantly—unfailingly kind. Annabelle is the type of partner we all crave, and, perhaps deep down, the type of person we aspire to be: open, honest, warm, caring, and helpful. That person who always sees the best in everyone, and just knows immediately that the glass on the table is—without a doubt—half full.
“Annabelle was exhausting. Overwhelming. Endlessly cheerful in a way that should have been irritating. But she was also the sort of person who made you feel safe, even when you didn’t realize that’s what you’d been missing.” (p. 122)
In a world filled with hate, rage, selfishness, and despair, I long for Annabelle Swift. I long for Bankton—where the bulls may roam free and the neighbors may be…um…eccentric—but the villagers look out for one another as best they can. I long for a world where friendships matter, kindness is rewarded, and true love triumphs in the end.
Prior to reading For My Encore, For My Finale (also set in Bankton) was my favorite Sienna Waters novel. For My Encore has bumped it out of first place. I still think For My Finale is funnier, but For My Encore has so many layers, so much emotional depth. (And yes, of course, a life lesson. But I could not figure out how to discuss it without revealing something about the story, so I will leave it at that.)
I could not stop reading For My Encore, especially as I neared the end. Even as I was nodding off (I get up for work at 3 A.M.), I would not close the book and go to sleep. I HAD to know how it ended.
Do yourself a favor. Put aside a block of time, grab yourself a coffee (or some tea if that’s your thing), and visit Annabelle and her friends in Bankton. You’ll be happy that you did (and Billy is waiting, after all).
Annabelle Swift is the reason I love Sapphic romance novels. Annabelle and her like-minded sisters across the Lesbian Romance genre bring joy to my heart and help ease my troubled mind. Annabelle represents that person we all long to be friends with: cheerful, optimistic, and—most importantly—unfailingly kind. Annabelle is the type of partner we all crave, and, perhaps deep down, the type of person we aspire to be: open, honest, warm, caring, and helpful. That person who always sees the best in everyone, and just knows immediately that the glass on the table is—without a doubt—half full.
“Annabelle was exhausting. Overwhelming. Endlessly cheerful in a way that should have been irritating. But she was also the sort of person who made you feel safe, even when you didn’t realize that’s what you’d been missing.” (p. 122)
In a world filled with hate, rage, selfishness, and despair, I long for Annabelle Swift. I long for Bankton—where the bulls may roam free and the neighbors may be…um…eccentric—but the villagers look out for one another as best they can. I long for a world where friendships matter, kindness is rewarded, and true love triumphs in the end.
Prior to reading For My Encore, For My Finale (also set in Bankton) was my favorite Sienna Waters novel. For My Encore has bumped it out of first place. I still think For My Finale is funnier, but For My Encore has so many layers, so much emotional depth. (And yes, of course, a life lesson. But I could not figure out how to discuss it without revealing something about the story, so I will leave it at that.)
I could not stop reading For My Encore, especially as I neared the end. Even as I was nodding off (I get up for work at 3 A.M.), I would not close the book and go to sleep. I HAD to know how it ended.
Do yourself a favor. Put aside a block of time, grab yourself a coffee (or some tea if that’s your thing), and visit Annabelle and her friends in Bankton. You’ll be happy that you did (and Billy is waiting, after all).
May 13, 2026
Raven, leader of Krimson Kisses has quit the band and fled the city after her lover married someone else. Now she just wants peace and solitude as she figures things out.
However Annabelle, her neighbor, has no intention of leaving her alone. The teacher has a GIFT BASKET! A warm welcome! A invitation to the book club!
And.. she accidently walks in on a naked Raven. Who is not pleased. Annabelle tries to apologize but Raven throws her out, gift basket and all. Its after this she learns that Raven is famous too.
Raven's manager is badgering her to get back to work, and suggests she does a livestream Where she does late into the night... until Annabelle knocks on the door to pleasantly ask her to keep it down. And ends up being seen by the internet in her adorable dinosaur pajamas.
Her manager sees it and orders Raven to apologize over the accidentally internet fame. Annabelle doesn't care and feeds her biscuits.
Raven is left perplexed.
Then Annabelle shows up at her door with a class of children, hoping she'd help fundraise for the school library. Which she reluctantly agrees to help with.
Raven interacting with kids is hilarious.
Annabelle is burning the candle at both ends trying to get everything done, and when Raven has a quiet night she panics thinking something happened. Cue tea and a sweet talk
The school fundraiser is a hit, but the press thinks Raven just did it for PR. Then Annabelle reveals a confidence to get the press to back off, and Raven decides to leave.
Third act breakup.
Annabelle sends her a letter with her real feelings, Raven realizes she can have her and her career, wrap up.
3.5 stars. .
However Annabelle, her neighbor, has no intention of leaving her alone. The teacher has a GIFT BASKET! A warm welcome! A invitation to the book club!
And.. she accidently walks in on a naked Raven. Who is not pleased. Annabelle tries to apologize but Raven throws her out, gift basket and all. Its after this she learns that Raven is famous too.
Raven's manager is badgering her to get back to work, and suggests she does a livestream Where she does late into the night... until Annabelle knocks on the door to pleasantly ask her to keep it down. And ends up being seen by the internet in her adorable dinosaur pajamas.
Her manager sees it and orders Raven to apologize over the accidentally internet fame. Annabelle doesn't care and feeds her biscuits.
Raven is left perplexed.
Then Annabelle shows up at her door with a class of children, hoping she'd help fundraise for the school library. Which she reluctantly agrees to help with.
Raven interacting with kids is hilarious.
Annabelle is burning the candle at both ends trying to get everything done, and when Raven has a quiet night she panics thinking something happened. Cue tea and a sweet talk
The school fundraiser is a hit, but the press thinks Raven just did it for PR. Then Annabelle reveals a confidence to get the press to back off, and Raven decides to leave.
Third act breakup.
Annabelle sends her a letter with her real feelings, Raven realizes she can have her and her career, wrap up.
3.5 stars. .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
Hits All the Right Notes
For My Encore is everything I love about Sienna Waters’ writing—emotionally rich, tender, and quietly powerful. This story pulled me in fast and kept me there with its blend of vulnerability, hope, and second‑chance love. The characters felt so real in their fears and desires that it was impossible not to root for them.
Waters does a wonderful job exploring what it means to choose yourself while also opening your heart again. The emotional beats are perfectly timed, the chemistry is natural and heartfelt, and the quieter moments carry just as much weight as the big ones. I especially appreciated how thoughtfully the characters’ growth was handled—it felt earned and deeply satisfying.
If you love sapphic romance with strong emotional connection, layered characters, and a payoff that lingers long after the last page, *For My Encore* is absolutely worth reading. Another lovely, affirming win from Sienna Waters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
For My Encore is everything I love about Sienna Waters’ writing—emotionally rich, tender, and quietly powerful. This story pulled me in fast and kept me there with its blend of vulnerability, hope, and second‑chance love. The characters felt so real in their fears and desires that it was impossible not to root for them.
Waters does a wonderful job exploring what it means to choose yourself while also opening your heart again. The emotional beats are perfectly timed, the chemistry is natural and heartfelt, and the quieter moments carry just as much weight as the big ones. I especially appreciated how thoughtfully the characters’ growth was handled—it felt earned and deeply satisfying.
If you love sapphic romance with strong emotional connection, layered characters, and a payoff that lingers long after the last page, *For My Encore* is absolutely worth reading. Another lovely, affirming win from Sienna Waters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2026
Sienna Waters is an auto read for me. I have yet to read a book of hers I didn’t like. So sit back, grab a blanket and drink of choice and prepare to get lost in this charming standalone from the Bankton Books series. It perfectly captures the grumpy-sunshine and opposites-attract dynamics. Watch as two women, thrown together by a disastrous first impression (including accidental nudity!) and a mission to save their local library, find an undeniable, unexpected connection. Prepare for laugh-out-loud chaos, heartwarming moments, and a love story that feels like coming home.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
May 17, 2026
I read 37% of the book and I refuse to read anymore of it. At first (like 4 chapters in) I was okay with Annabelle, she’s very abnormally positive, peppy, and optimistic and Raven was just rude but whatever. Now I genuinely can’t stand Annabelle, she’s just too peppy it’s giving me a headache, and I understand why Raven didn’t like her, she’s has absolutely zero boundaries and it irks me. Maybe I’ll finish it another day but I just can’t right now
June 2, 2026
great read
I’ve love a few other books by this author but this is a new favorite. The characters are a bit more developed and not so cookie cutter as some romances are. And besides a HEA a great epilogue. I am a sucker for those which just showed how the characters grew but still stayed true to themselves.
I’ve love a few other books by this author but this is a new favorite. The characters are a bit more developed and not so cookie cutter as some romances are. And besides a HEA a great epilogue. I am a sucker for those which just showed how the characters grew but still stayed true to themselves.
May 6, 2026
The book got me from the beginning. Two opposite characters, the're both lovely in their own way.
They both have issues to deal with. Their is lots of humor and a lot of tenderness. Lovely side characters. Love it.
They both have issues to deal with. Their is lots of humor and a lot of tenderness. Lovely side characters. Love it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another fantastic story by Sienna.
Wounded grumpy rock star meets little miss sunshine.
I love the village life setting and eccentric characters who absolutely make this story.
Raven & Annabelle's story is romantic, funny, angsty and perfectly not perfect.
Wounded grumpy rock star meets little miss sunshine.
I love the village life setting and eccentric characters who absolutely make this story.
Raven & Annabelle's story is romantic, funny, angsty and perfectly not perfect.
May 7, 2026
perfect
I’ve had this on my list for a very long time and it was definitely worth the wait! I loved everything about it!
I’ve had this on my list for a very long time and it was definitely worth the wait! I loved everything about it!
May 30, 2026
This book had some funny parts but there were also some repetitive parts. This one should've been called perfect because it seemed to be the word of the day.
May 16, 2026
okay so first off, anyone tagging this 'enemies to lovers' should know I am going to find you and demonstrate what enmity actually is
neighbours to lovers sunshine-grump with a little heat to it, in that the grump is actually a jerk and takes some time to come around to sunshine's relentless sunniness. they're also fighting to save a school library which I'm a big fan of. the town of Bankton came into its own as a character, with some recurring freaks and weirdoes returning from For My Finale, and for a light and fuzzy book there was some actual pathos as Annabel's need to fix everything collided with reality.
neighbours to lovers sunshine-grump with a little heat to it, in that the grump is actually a jerk and takes some time to come around to sunshine's relentless sunniness. they're also fighting to save a school library which I'm a big fan of. the town of Bankton came into its own as a character, with some recurring freaks and weirdoes returning from For My Finale, and for a light and fuzzy book there was some actual pathos as Annabel's need to fix everything collided with reality.
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