The Beginning of Us

by Emma Mugglestone

Life’s about to get very complicated …

Which is the last thing Jessica Sonoto needs. She’s already juggling several part-time jobs, an ex-husband who still insists on wearing his wedding ring and trying to give her son the childhood she never had. When Jessica learns about a sizeable inheritance coming her way, it feels like fresh start she’s been desperate for. There’s just one catch: she’s got to be married to claim it.

Teddy James used to be able to charm his way out of any situation, but lately the consequences of his playboy ways have been showing up at the worst times. Couple that with the emptiness that’s plagued him for the last few months and Teddy doesn’t recognise himself anymore. When a career opportunity prompts questions about what settling down really looks like for Teddy, he panics and blurts that he’s seeing someone. Only … he isn’t.

At least, not until Teddy and Jessica realise they might be able to help each other. Could a secret marriage masquerading as a fake relationship be the answer to all their problems? Or is this the real, new beginning they’ve both been waiting for?

Published April 22, 2026

Reviews

[Tabetha (tabsbooknook) · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review: The Beginning Of Us by @emma.mugglestone
Release date: 22 April 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oh I am so happy to be back in Wattle Junction! This is book 3 in the series and follows the youngest James brother Teddy. If you are a fan of friends to lovers, fake dating that morphs into a marriage of convenience, then this book is for you! While I loved Owen James and Nate James, I think Teddy has become my favourite James brother (but maybe this will change with Rafferty’s book??).
The FMC Jessica is a single mum who works multiple jobs to provide for her 4 year old son Sammy. When the father she never knew leaves her an inheritance with a particular clause in it, Jess reaches out to her former coworker and friend Teddy for help. From here we watch two people that have had crushes on each other, learn to be in a relationship together.
I’m a massive fan of Emma’s and she never disappoints, so please got support an indie Aussie author 💜

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I tell you I squeaked when this ARC arrived in my inbox!

It was so lovely. Teddy and Jessica’s story was so beautiful and organic and I LOVE me a single mum trope - gosh Teddy just nailed it.

Loved it. Thanks for the ARC Emma!

[Katie]

First things first—this was my first book by Emma Mugglestone and let me just say… I am officially OBSESSED. 😍

Tropes (aka my weakness):

🌟 Small Aussie town

🌟 Marriage of convenience

🌟 Fake dating

🌟 Reformed playboy

🌟 Single mum

Jess and Teddy… I’m actually not okay 🥹

I loved them so much.

You all know by now—I LIVE for a slow burn, and this one? Delivered in every possible way. The tension, the build-up, the little moments… it had me kicking my feet, smiling at my Kindle like an absolute loon 😮‍💨💕

Fake dating + marriage of convenience is one of my favourite combos and Emma just nailed it. Watching Jess and Teddy go from what they were… to what they became… was honestly everything.

And then there’s Sam 🥹

The relationship he builds with Teddy melted my heart completely. Those moments? So soft. So special.

But can we talk about the James family for a second…

Because WOW. They completely stole my heart ❤️

The banter, the loyalty, the love—it all felt so real and so full of warmth. It’s the kind of family you just want to be part of… and honestly, the kind I hope to have around me when my kids are grown.

And Wattle Junction??

Please… someone pack my bags immediately because I’m ready to move in 🏡✨

One quote that absolutely stayed with me:

💫 “You’re a big deal, Starshine. Don’t ever believe anything else.”

🥹🥹🥹

This book was beautifully written, so easy to fall into, and one of those stories that just wraps around you like a hug.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me

I already know one thing for sure…

I NEED more of the James family immediately.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this before publication—honestly such a joy 🤍

[Rachel C · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so excited to receive this ARC as I already owned the first two but hadn't got around to reading them so this was the kick up the butt I needed!

This book follows youngest James brother, Teddy, who is a dentist, a part-time barman and a notorious playboy. An ex-lover turns up at the bar one day and in an attempt to avoid her advances, he tells her he has a girlfriend. She assumes it is his bar co-worker and single mum, Jess (who we met in Book 1!) Jess also has a problem. She's come into a significant amount of money through an inheritance but can't claim it for 5 years... unless she's married. If she agrees to be Teddy's fake girlfriend, maybe he would agree to be her real/secret husband?!

Some of this may sound a bit confusing but it was so fun! It could absolutely be read as a standalone but the little easter eggs you pick up along the way from books 1 and 2 are worth it. I loved the back stories and depth in this one. We delved into Jess' ex husband issues, she also had her son, Sam, as a main character and I liked the character and relationship building in this book much more than the previous ones.

It was fun and spicy but a nice slow burn. It had more romantic emotional depth and I got to hang out with the James brothers again and the growing cast of girlfriends and wives, what's not to love? Bring on Raff's story!

Thank you Emma Mugglestone for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review. This came out yesterday, go find it and support an Aussie Indie author 😍

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Beginning Of Us is book 3 in Emma Mugglestone’s interconnected Wattle Junction series and I completely adored it. I have read this series out of order which can definitely be done, as each book reads as a standalone. However, I’ll certainly be reading the other books very soon.

Jessica Sonoto barely has time to blink, let alone worry about relationships. Working several jobs, caring for her young son and dealing with her demanding mother is more than enough to be going on with. That is until she discovers that she has been left a large inheritance which could potentially change her life. The only catch is to access it she needs to be married. Enter Teddy James, whose playboy reputation precedes him. The thing is Teddy no longer enjoys this lifestyle and can barely recognise himself anymore. When a career opportunity presents itself, he needs to show that he is capable of settling down and so he accidentally blurts out that he’s seeing someone. Only he isn’t. Perhaps Teddy and Jessica can help each other out. Will a secret marriage disguised as fake dating solve all their problems, or could this be the start of something more?

From the hilarious opening scene that had me in stitches, I was completely invested in Teddy finding happiness. He’s such a charming and swoonworthy MMC and I felt that he was being underestimated by everyone around him. Jessica was also a wonderfully relatable FMC and I adored seeing how she cared for her son and made sure he had everything, even though that was often at the cost of her own happiness. The chemistry between Teddy and Jessica was really sizzling on the page and I was quickly turning the pages to see how things would go.

As well as the fabulous romance, I also loved Teddy’s family. The James’ brothers are the best and their interactions so true to life. The teasing and wrestling and general banter brought a lot of humour to this story.

Emma writes spicy scenes to perfection and I always know that I’m in for a treat with one of her books, but she also knows how to squeeze all the emotions out of a scene and there were plenty of moments in this book where my heart was in my throat at the heartbreak of loss and disappointment.

The Beginning Of Us was an a wonderfully engaging rom-com with plenty of heart and a good dose of swoon. I absolutely loved it! Thanks Emma for sending me a digital ARC of this fabulous romance read.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Beginning of Us is officially book 4 (including the Wattle it Be novella) in the Wattle Junction series and focuses around Teddy and Jessica. This had all the best tropes, fake dating, (secret) marriage of convenience, friends to lovers.. combined together it made for a great read! I loved how caring and supportive Teddy was towards Jessica and also her son Sam, and Jessica's protectiveness of those she loves was outstanding. I also loved all the cameos from the other characters we have met in the other books. This one also did a lot of set up for Raff's story so it will be exciting for the next book release!

[Joanne Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you for the ARC of the Beginning of Us! I really enjoyed Jessica and Teddy’s story, how their characters developed together and on their own. Also loved the side characters! Gosh Sam is just adorable!

[Georgia · Rating 5 out of 5]

My new favourite in the Wattle Junction series! It was a privilege to read Jessica and Teddy's love story. A beautiful romance with a lot of heart and lots of laughs.

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Teddy! I was so excited to read Teddy and Jessica’s story and Emma did not disappoint! The more I read of Wattle Junction, the more I want to read. Teddy definitely has lived up to his youngest brother vibes in the first two books but oh how the tables turned! He gets a little taste of his own medicine as he falls completely for Jessica and her son! I’ve loved watching him grow as a character. Jessica is so sweet and she honestly deserves all the good things. I love to see how things go well for her after such a tough start. Now, Rafferty your time is here! Can’t wait for book four!

Thank you to Emma Mugglestone for the ARC!

[Narelle Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhhhhh! A return to Wattle Junction and the James brothers in the best possible way.
Teddy is my favourite fourth James brother - I love love love him and I'm so happy that this book partners him with Jessie, who we met in Book 1 'The Reality of Us.
Jessie needs a husband and Teddy needs a girlfriend - it looks like a serendipitous moment - a match that is meant to happen. But it isn't going to be all smooth sailing as there are ex partners hovering in the background and a little boy to consider, not to mention a doting mother who isn't going to be happy about not being invited to a secret wedding. Wattle Junction is never very good at keeping things quiet.
This book was an absolute delight from page one to the epilogue. These two characters are so endearing - you want things to come out right in the wash for them. There were definite times when I had to hold my breath and hope that things weren't going to go sideways - nearly went blue in the face a couple of times. Jessie's mother is a piece of work - it is incredible that Jessie turned out to be the remarkable woman she is with this woman in her life. It was great to see Lulu, the James matriarch, back again and the entire James family are people you just want to hang out with at a barbeque or pub. What Emma does so well with her stories is make you completely believe in her characters - I genuinely felt like I could walk into a country town called Wattle Junction and met all these people.
Thank you so much to the author for the chance to read this latest addition to the Wattle Junction series - it is a book to add the TBR pile if you like a charming romance built around country community. In fact add all the books in this series if you haven't discovered them yet. You won't be disappointed as the series gets stronger and stronger.

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 rounded up to 5/5

I received a review copy and these are my thoughts:

I’ve waited almost two years for this book and Emma did not disappoint!

Teddy is the youngest of the four James brothers and is a playboy. His happy-go-lucky attitude has worked until now, but he's at a point in his life where he might be ready for something more. But in an attempt to dodge his now co-worker and former weekend flame, he lies and says he has a girlfriend. Jessica is a mother and divorcee who works several jobs to give her son everything she never had growing up. Jessica learns that she's been left a hefty inheritance but to access it before she turns 30, she must be married. Jessica needs a husband and Teddy a girlfriend. The plan was simple: get married in secret and pretend to date. Teddy was the perfect “feelings-free”, no strings attached fake husband Jessica needed, but the once playboy turns out to be more than just a handsome face and a good time and they are both left with the possibility of that this fake arrangement, might not be so fake after all.

I loved both Teddy and Jessica. She started out closed-off and a bit of a black-cat but as we learn more about her, we discover that she is in fact, a very hardworking woman and devoted mother. Teddy, oh Teddy! he was just the sweetest and most thoughtful guy! He paid attention to the little details, he showed up and he listened. Watching him “grow up” was heartwarming, as was seeing him and Jessica’s 5-year-old son bond. This reformed playboy became a reliable and caring man.

Teddy and Jessica had incredible chemistry and the slow burn was SLOW!! Which made it all the more thrilling to watch them forge a friendship and emotional connection before things got physical, which they eventually did and it was sizzling.

The James family was meddlesome but also loving and supportive and I enjoyed the immersion into the Australian small town setting.

There were so many sweet and memorable moments but I’d rather you read this book than spoil them.

I can’t wait for the last book in the series.

[Spice: 2.5/5🌶️]

[Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ 𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 ✨

Yes, I’m back in Wattle Junction… and honestly, I never want to leave. I’ve been loving this series, and this next instalment releases on April 22nd (my birthday!). I was lucky enough to receive an eARC and one of the physical ARCs Emma offered — thank you so much, Emma!

What to expect 👇🏼
✨ Small‑town Aussie charm
✨ Single mum × reformed playboy
✨ Steamy slow‑burn goodness
✨ Stargazing dates in a treehouse
✨ Fake dating… but also secretly married

Teddy doesn’t think he knows how to be a good boyfriend. He’s mastered the playboy persona, but he’s done with that life — he wants to change, and he wants that change to begin and end with Jessica. Their relationship might be “fake,” but Teddy is out here promising Jess the stars and doing every thoughtful little thing he thinks an adoring boyfriend should do.

Reasons Teddy is a total sweetheart 👇🏼
- Brings Jess a different bouquet every time to learn her favourite flower
- Never forgets her son Sam (dinosaurs for Sam!)
- Builds a treehouse for Jessica and Sam
- Stargazing + a telescope
- Helps rescue Blue 🐈
- Lanterns, nicknames, and gentle encouragement
- Shows Jessica she is a big deal

I also have to say… I felt seen in this book. The FMC has curly hair she throws into a messy bun, and she accessorises with big earrings for confidence (the bigger the earrings, the braver she feels). Jessica, I think we’d be friends 😂

Aussie touches I loved: sand clamshells, vacuuming sand (Mum life), verandahs, possums, Christmas poinsettias, agapanthus.

Is it possible to have a favourite Wattle Junction couple? Because Teddy and Jessica might just be mine 🤭

[Sarina Birchwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

First-time reader of Emma Mugglestone and whilst this may be the first book of Emma's for me, I've read some reviews and can see that The Beginning of Us is part of a small town series, however, I did not feel like I needed to read the rest of the books to know the families, to get an insight of their lives and enjoy the storyline. In saying that, I will be reading more of her work!

If you're a lover of small town romances, hot swoony men, tight family dynamics with too many opinions & strong women who work hard for themselves and don't need to rely on a man, then this book is for you. If not, well, it's your loss!

Teddy & Jess' romance story is entertaining, realistic, and fast romance that will leave you laughing, crying, and celebrating love with just enough spice. ❤️ Teddy, a playboy bored with his life, Jess, a single mum who works so hard to provide the life for her son she never had, initially enter a 'fake relationship' to benefit them both in different ways and find love amongst drama of ex's, mums who are either not involved or two involved, career goals and a hesitation in knowing if they're truely ready for the next steps in their lives, whilst retaining the true essence of strong family values.

The Beginning of Us was easy to read, enjoyable, dramatic, spicy, and entertaining. Emma has portrayed the characters in a way they drew you into their lives, wanting to see their love bloom!

The rest of the Wattle Junction novels have just been added to my TBR! Hoping they too follow the James' families' love lives, I'm invested now!

To quote Emma herself, "To new forevers."

[Anita D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Advanced reader copy review of The Beginning of Us by Emma Mugglestone (independently published)

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 It was amazing!
🔥🔥🔥 open door, explicit - 2 scenes

I liked Alice and Owen’s story. I loved Eloise and Nate’s. I was not expecting to absolutely fall in love with Jessica and Teddy.

Honestly, I have no complaints. I devoured this book in a little over a day. (If I didn’t have kids, I would’ve read it in a day.)

Theodore ‘Teddy’ James is a known playboy. He loves women and loves making them feel good, but lately doing so with random women has lost its charm. In the first chapter, he runs into Jessica ‘Jess’ Sonoto, former coworker and fellow resident of Wattle Junction. Jess is a single mum to four-year-old Sam; she’s trying hard to keep them afloat whilst also coparenting with her ex-husband, Rob.

Jess and Teddy’s story had me smiling and swooning throughout. They are just so good together. I’ll be thinking about Jess and Teddy for a while, I’m sure.

Also, I’m not sure I’ve ever highlighted so many lines in an ARC before.

I can’t wait for Rafferty’s story, and I am hoping that we get to see more children in Jess and Teddy’s future!

Tropes:
🌟 small Aussie town
🌟 marriage of convenience
🌟 fake dating
🌟 reformed playboy
🌟 single mum

Thank you to Emma Mugglestone for the ARC. I was not incentivised to read or review.

[Prerna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wattle Junction is one of my favourite small towns - the quirky characters, warmth and familiarity feel like coming home. The Beginning Of Us was a fun weekend read with happy-go-lucky, “fun” brother Teddy finally realising that he’s growing up and has the opportunity to create the life he’s longed for with the woman of his dreams.

Sweet, shy, single mum Jessica has been through the mill with a disruptive childhood, and a few unexpected turns in her twenties. But now that she’s finally found a place where she wants to settle down and place roots for herself and her son, Sam, she’s determined to protect what they have. It helps that the charming Teddy James also wants the same for her and is willing to help her make it happen.

But every relationship, even fake ones, has its challenges that Jess and Teddy face together. From hiding the true nature of their relationship from his family and the Old Girls Brigade, convincing her lawyer that Sam has the stability he needs in her care, and meeting the conditions of an unexpected windfall that comes her way, there’s plenty of tension, ‘what if?’ moments, and intrigue to keep you turning the pages. In the midst of all the drama there’s also romance, sweet moments, steamy scenes and a heartwarming conclusion.

Oh, and plenty of clues that hint at Raf’s story being one of high stakes and action!

[Rachna Jain · Rating 4 out of 5]

“You’re a big deal, Starshine. Don’t ever believe anything else.”

Ahhh I loved being back in Wattle Junction with the James brothers. This was such a fun, feel good rom-com and I ate up every second of it. Fake dating and marriage of convenience at the same time? Say less. I was hooked!

The story follows Jessica, a hardworking single mum trying to build a stable life for herself and her son, who suddenly needs a husband to secure an inheritance. Enter Teddy, who needs a girlfriend to impress his boss. Their arrangement starts off purely convenient, but watching it slowly turn into something real was so wholesome. Jessica’s growth throughout the story was one of my favourite parts, and Teddy was such a sweetheart under all that charm.

I loved the mix of humour, romance, and emotional moments. Teddy’s family added so much warmth, even with a bit of chaos, and the whole small town vibe made it extra cozy. There was just enough tension and “what if” moments to keep things interesting, along with some sweet and steamy scenes.

If you love fake dating, marriage of convenience, small town romance, and a soft but strong FMC, this is such a fun and heartwarming read.

Thank you so much to Emma for the ARC and the chance to share my honest review🫶🏼

[Cris Flowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so happy to be back in Wattle Junction—it honestly feels like coming home. 💛 This is the third book in the series, and this time we follow the youngest James brother, Teddy… and I think he might have quietly stolen my heart.

If you love friends-to-lovers, fake dating that slowly unravels into something real, and a marriage of convenience that doesn’t feel so convenient after all—this story will absolutely wrap itself around you.

Jessica, our FMC, is a single mum doing everything she can to give her little boy a good life. When an unexpected inheritance comes with a complicated condition, she turns to Teddy—an old friend, a safe place, someone who has always been there in the background.

There’s something so comforting about the way Emma writes—her characters feel lived-in, her romances feel earned, and the emotions linger long after the last page. I’ve loved Owen and Nate, but Teddy… Teddy just hits differently.

I’m such a huge fan of Emma’s work, and once again she didn’t disappoint. Please go support this incredible indie Aussie author—you won’t regret it.
A happy ARC reader for this 5 ⭐️
Thank you Emma Mugglestone 🫶🏻🌻

[Sharnee Douglas · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️

I absolutely loved being back in Wattle Junction for this fake dating, marriage-of-convenience turned love story; it felt like coming home while still giving me all the feels.

Jessica was such a standout for me. Her strength as a mother and the lengths she’d go to for Sam made her incredibly easy to connect with and root for. She felt real, resilient, and fiercely loving.

Teddy’s growth throughout the story was another highlight. Watching him figure out what he truly wants in life added so much depth to his character, and made the romance even more rewarding.

One of my favourite parts was the vulnerability between Jessica and Teddy. The way she opens up, and how gentle and understanding he is in return, made their connection feel genuine and heartfelt.

Overall, this was a beautifully emotional romance with strong character development and a relationship that truly grows into something special. 💛

“The only person who had raised Jessica was herself.”

“He wanted to prove to her that he could do this. Be the guy she wanted to kiss. For real.”

“This is it. The beginning she’d been waiting for.”

[_biancasbookclub · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Beginning of Us by Emma Mugglestone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I was so kindly offered an ARC of The Beginning of Us by Emma Mugglestone—and needless to say, I was beyond excited to get my hands on it!

We’re introduced to Jessica, an instantly lovable single mum juggling multiple jobs to provide for her son. When she learns she’s set to inherit a significant amount of money—but only if she’s married—things take an unexpected turn.

Enter Teddy. Sweet, thoughtful, and at a crossroads in his own life, he’s beginning to question everything. To be taken more seriously at work, he needs a girlfriend… even if she’s fake.

So, what happens when two people with something to gain decide to pretend? And what happens when those fake feelings start to become something very real?

I completely fell in love with Jessica and Teddy and couldn’t wait to see how their story unfolded. This book felt like a warm hug—comforting, heartfelt, and full of charm.

A huge thank you to Emma for trusting me with your ARC. I’m so grateful to have read it before release—and congratulations on such a beautiful book!

[Merindah · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Duel POV
- Small Town Romance
- Single Mum
- Reformed Playboy
- Friends to Lovers
- Fake Dating / Marriage of Convenience

This series has easily become one of my all time favourites. I’ve completely fallen in love with Wattle Junction and its residents, honestly, I’d pack my bags and move there in a heartbeat. It’s the kind of place that feels so vivid and warm, you can’t help but get lost in it.
The Beginning of Us is the third book in the series and follows the youngest James brother (I’d definitely recommend reading the novella Wattle It Be first for the full experience).
Teddy and Jessica’s story is absolutely beautiful so swoon worthy, yet grounded. Their relationship develops in such a natural, organic way, with real life challenges that make everything feel authentic and relatable.
This book had me laughing, tearing up (more than once), and completely wrapped up in all the heartfelt moments 🥰
Emma, you are incredibly talented!!! I cannot wait to read Rafferty’s story next!

[Gaby | Reading Mode · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first time reading Emma Mugglestone, and it definitely won’t be my last.

Although the book is part of a series, I hadn’t read the previous books and didn’t feel lost at all. It works well as a standalone, which made it easy to jump into. I ended up finishing it in one day.

What stood out the most was the character development, especially the FMC. Her emotional journey feels believable and consistent with who she is, and it was really satisfying to see both characters evolve throughout the story.

At times I wished the FMC had shown the MMC the same openness he showed her, but that probably wouldn’t have been fully true to her character.

The pacing makes it a quick and engaging read - entertaining, funny, and easy to get through in one sitting. I would definitely recommend it, especially to readers who enjoy character-driven romance.

I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Beginning of Us
Wattle Junction Book 3

Emma’s writing style just draws me in from the start – it is such a joy to read her work.
This is book three in the Wattle Junction series – can be read as a standalone.

Jessica – overworked single mum - discovers she has an inheritance from a father she never knew – unfortunately the inheritance comes with a clause.

Teddy – former co-worker of Jessica – has the need of a fake girlfriend

Together Jess and Teddy come up with a plan, and over time their relationship builds to more. I really enjoyed Teddy’s character growth and how he interacted with those around him. Bonus points for Teddy caring for Jess when she is unwell.

Aussie Romance, Small Town, Reformed Playboy, Single Mum, Fake Dating, Secret Marriage, Found Family, He’s All In, No Third Act Breakup.

Thanks to Emma Mugglestone for the ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[monika_is_booked · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two people with a plan. What could go wrong if you fake date/secretly marry the person you might have had a crush on for years, right? Right!! You might have fall hard for the kind man who keeps showing up for you and your kid. But that's a future problem....

I have been WAITING for Teddy's story since book 1 and I LOVE IT SO MUCH!! It was so good to be back in Wattle Junction with the James' family. Watching Jessica and Teddy navigate their delicate situation was so fun and heartwarming! Jessica opening up slowly, Teddy realising the only one holding him back was himself all along. SO GOOD!

If you like fake dating/marriage of convenience, small town shenanigans, cinnamon roll MMCs, strong and independent single moms, a delicious slow burn and open door spice, start reading "The Beginning of Us" asap!

Thank you so much, Emma for taking me back to Wattle Junction with this beautiful story 🩷

[Megan May · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Beginning of Us is Book #3 in the Wattle Junction series, and I loved it as much as the other two books. In The Beginning of Us, single mom Jessica needs a fake husband to secure an inheritance. She enlists the help of local hottie & f***boy Teddy, who needs to show his boss how "serious" he can be. It is a classic "fake-dating" in a "small town" romance; however, Mugglestone's humor, depth of characters, and ability to tackle heavy themes make it stand out.

I was so happy to learn that I had been chosen for this ARC, as I loved the first two books in the series. I have quickly become a fan of Emma Mugglestone. She is definitely one of my "if she writes it, I am buying it" authors. Mugglestone tackles difficult themes such as custody battles, anxiety, and self-doubt in a way that is both funny and redeeming. All of the characters, including the archetypes that usually annoy me (meddling old ladies), are likable, and you can't help but root for their HEA.

[NurseLadyReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

Fake dating AND marriage of convenience- at the same time? While also being funny? Yes, please! This fantastic rom-com features Teddy James of Wattle Junction and his love interest Jessica, a hard- working single mum. Jessica needs a husband to fulfill an inheritance clause and Teddy needs a girlfriend to impress his boss. Watching them sort themselves out and seeing their feelings grow into something more was wonderful. Teddy’s family is so supportive (even if Lulu is a bit meddling), and Jessica’s mom is a bit of a nightmare, tbh. Seeing Jess grow was one of the best parts of the book!

If you’re looking for friends to lovers, a supper supportive MMC, single parent, fake dating, marriage of convenience, I highly recommend this book!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 💕

[Katie B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Emma Mugglestone for the ARC of The Beginning of Us 🤍

Jess and Teddy… I’m not okay 🥹
I loved them so much. This was my first book by Emma Mugglestone and I’m officially obsessed.

I LOVE a slow burn. I LOVE fake dating & marriage of convenience so I was so keen to get stuck in. If you love a slow burn, this absolutely delivers. Watching Jess and Teddy’s story unfold was kicking-your-feet-in-the-air worthy.

I loved Sam and the relationship he builds with Teddy, and also… the James family completely stole my heart. The kind of family I hope to have when my kids are grown. The banter, the loyalty, the love… it all felt so real.

And Wattle Junction?? Please, just let me move there instantly. It sounds like an actual dream.

Beautifully written, easy to fall into, and now I just need more of the James family immediately.

[De Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was honestly so good. It had my attention from that first line and kept me invested in the story till the end. Teddy is the drama and I love it. He is such a mood. And Jess is one strong FMC. She busts her butt to provide for her son and it’s admirable to say the least. When these two are together it’s hilarious and tense, in a good way. The banter they share is amazing. And the chemistry is on fire. Everything between them feels so natural and real. And they are two of the most genuine and relatable characters I’ve read recently. The build up with the may have taken its time but that doesn’t mean it didn’t burn hot. It had me giggling and kicking my feet in the air. Their connection is so sweet and supportive. And the loyalty 🥵 nothing is hotter than a loyal man. And the ending of the book was perfect for these two. I couldn’t have wanted any better.

[Jacinta Peachey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved being back in Wattle Junction. Teddy was always my favourite of the James boys and not because he is a dentist, because that boy is like no dentist I’ve ever met and I’ve met a lot. He is the cheeky playboy that I’ve been waiting to see grow up. Hats off to Lulu as she raised a wonderful son.
Jessie is the single mum doing it tough, raising a four-year-old juggling multiple jobs dealing with an unlikable ex-husband.
When the fake dating turned into a marriage of convenience, because of an inheritance I knew I was in for a delightful story, but hold me back, he builds a tree house for Jessie and her son. And the telescope!!
Emma Muggleston has yet again has taken me on a wonderful journey to Wattle Junction.
I received an advanced copy from the author.

[Lisa Benison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small Town, Friends to Fake to More?, Wonderful Characters - Perfect!

I loved this book from start to finish and I could not put it down waiting to see what would happen next. Jess and Teddy had hidden (unrealized?) feelings that slowly developed when they found themselves in a fake relationship/ marriage and seeing Teddy with her son, "grow up" and realize his feelings and Jess actually open up while keeping their secret was just so much fun. And of course there was his brothers' teasing but also coming together when needed (the treehouse!). It is part of a series and although they are all wonderful, it can easily be read as a standalone novel. I can't wait for Raff's story coming next - Enjoy!

I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Bec (becbingesbooks) - sorry, behind with lots of catching up to do · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Aussie author for April with the latest in the Wattle Junction series - Teddy's story, and I think it is my favourite one of the three so far.

I think a lot of us had been waiting (patiently) for the latest in this series and it definitely did not disappoint. Absolutely adored it!

This was a fake dating romance. The description is on Goodreads so I won't rewrite it. But what makes me love the series the most is not only how sweet all the brothers are but also how the James family is genuinely just so caring and honest, and only want happiness for each other. This one had the added layer of sweetness with the FMCs young son and a James brother being a typical James brother 😍

I think each book in this series could be read as standalones or in any order but I personally prefer reading things in their publication order.

Many thanks to Emma for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.