Summer Skies Over Starr's Fall

by Kate Hewitt

The BRAND NEW utterly gorgeous small town romance from MILLION COPY BESTSELLER Kate Hewitt Praise for Kate

“Loving the Gilmore Girls vibes of this gorgeous series. Starr’s Fall has stolen my heart! Beautiful setting, fabulous community and a grumpy-sunshine combination. What more could you want?” Bestselling author, Jessica Redland

“The most gorgeous escapist romance! Don’t miss it!” Bestselling author, Amy Andrews

“You know when a book hits the spot at the right time? Well this book was that for me… I just had a smile on my face while I was reading it… I can’t wait for the next book set in this beautiful town.” Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I couldn’t get enough of this story and Starr’s Fall…. I loved every minute of it!” Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“This book really transported me to Starr’s Fall. I could smell the fall air and feel the leaves crunch under my feet. I love how sweet this story is. Also, I love the journey that we go on with our main character. Packing my bags to move here immediately!” Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I loved this book so much!!! … Perfect… Emotional and heartwarming.” Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Okay, this book was adorable! It made me wish I could call Starr’s Fall home… If you love small towns, slow burns, closed doors/clean and wholesome romance, and Gilmore Girls vibes, you need to read this!” Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Genres: Romance

264 pages, Paperback

Published February 17, 2026

About the author

Kate is the USA Today-bsetselling author of many books of both historical and contemporary fiction. Under the name Katharine Swartz, she is the author of the Tales from Goswell books, a series of time-slip novels set in the village of Goswell.

She likes to read women's fiction, mystery and thrillers, as well as historical novels. She particularly enjoys reading about well-drawn characters and avoids high-concept plots.

Having lived in both New York City and a tiny village on the windswept northwest coast of England, she now resides in a market town in Wales with her husband, five children, and two Golden Retrievers.

Reviews

[Melissa Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this cute romance. It had Gilmore Girls vibes as far as the town and was just so wholesome and made me smile and tear up!

We see themes of stepping out of our comfort zone and putting ourselves out there when our fear wants to get in the way. Loved this story so much! A very quick read as well.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚Summer Skies Over Starr's Fall
✍🏻Kate Hewitt
Blurb:
A totally gorgeous, age-gap, rural romance, perfect for fans of Virgin River, Rachel Hanna and Debbie Macomber, BRAND NEW from million-copy bestselling author, Kate Hewitt 🍦❤️☀️ **Every book in the Starr's Fall series can be read as a standalone*. *

As the weather warms up, everyone in Starr’s Fall has one thing on their minds… ice cream. And Zoe Wilkinson is the person to help them out. Running the town’s only ice cream shop—The Latest Scoop—she should be the most popular person in town, at least every day that the sun’s shining.

But, in spite of growing up in Starr’s Fall, Zoe has reached the age of twenty-eight without letting anyone deeply into her life. Her wild teenage years seem to be all anyone remembers, perhaps not helped by her spiky pink hair, and sometimes even spikier attitude.

That is, until fourteen-year-old Sophie comes into her store, and tries to steal something. Zoe calls her out, only to attract the ire of Sophie’s furious father, Dan Bryant –a surprisingly sexy middle-aged dad who Zoe would probably develop a huge crush on, if he wasn’t busy defending his daughter.

When she gets home to realise Sophie and Dan are in fact also her new neighbors, she knows she has to make nice. Besides, she can’t help but see a bit of her own teenage tearaway self in sulky Sophie.

But, as the summer sun blazes overhead, will letting a lost teenage girl and a man who gives her butterflies into her life be enough to warm up Zoe’s frozen, frightened heart?

Don’t miss the latest installment in Kate’s bestselling Starr’s Fall series! Available now!

Readers love Kate Hewitt’s Starr’s Fall “Loving the Gilmore Girls vibes of this gorgeous series. Starr’s Fall has stolen my heart! Beautiful setting, fabulous community and a grumpy-sunshine combination. What more could you want?” Bestselling author, Jessica Redland

“The most gorgeous escapist romance!{::}Don’t miss it!” Bestselling author, Amy Andrews

“You know when a book hits the spot at the right time? Well this book was that for me… I just had a smile on my face while I was reading it… I can’t wait for the next book set in this beautiful town.” Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I couldn’t get enough of this story and Starr’s Fall…. I loved every minute of it!” Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“This book really transported me to Starr’s Fall. I could smell the fall air and feel the leaves crunch under my feet. I love how sweet this story is. Also, I love the journey that we go on with our main character. Packing my bags to move here immediately!” Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I loved this book so much!!! … Perfect… Emotional and heartwarming.” Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Okay, this book was adorable! It made me wish I could call Starr’s Fall home… If you love small towns, slow burns, closed doors/clea
My Thoughts:
I loved this book reminds me of Virgin River. Zoe Wilkinson is the punk/goth looking woman with pink hair who runs the ice cream parlour in Starr's Fall. Her wild childhood/teenage years have given her a bit of a reputation, one she cultivates to stop people realising how lonely she is. At home, both her parents have medical problems that mean she is their primary carer. Her world shifts when fourteen-year-old Sophie attempts to steal from her shop. In the midst of confronting her, Sophie’s dad Dan intervenes, causing Zoe to back down, Much of this story is centered around Dan’s teenage daughter, Sophie, and her lived experiences. This book was tender and warm, with very low spice
Thanks NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Author Kate Hewitt for the complimentary copy of "Summer Skies Over Starr's Fall" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#BoldwoodBooks
#KateHewitt
#SummerSkiesOverStarr'sFall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚠️Trigger Warnings: Cancer, Chronic illness, Dementia, Abandonment

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer Skies Over Starr’s Fall is exactly the kind of feel‑good rural romance that makes you want to curl up with a bowl of ice cream and stay in Starr’s Fall all afternoon. Kate Hewitt delivers another beautifully heartfelt installment in the series — and, as promised, it works perfectly as a standalone.

Zoe Wilkinson is such a refreshing heroine. Running The Latest Scoop should make her the town darling, but her spiky pink hair and even spikier walls keep most people at arm’s length. Hewitt writes her with a lovely mix of vulnerability and grit, and it’s impossible not to warm to her as the story unfolds.

The turning point — a teenage shoplifting attempt and the arrival of Sophie’s fiercely protective (and unexpectedly handsome) dad, Dan — sets the stage for a slow‑burn, age‑gap romance that feels both grounded and deeply charming. The dynamic between Zoe and Sophie is especially touching, full of prickly edges and surprising tenderness, and it gives the story emotional depth beyond the romantic thread.

Hewitt captures small‑town life with her usual ease: the gossip, the sunshine, the sense of community, and the quiet ache of past mistakes that linger longer than they should. Watching Zoe navigate new neighbours, old reputations, and the possibility of letting someone in — really in — is both uplifting and quietly moving.

Fans of Virgin River, Rachel Hanna, and Debbie Macomber will find plenty to love here: a gentle romance, a strong sense of place, and characters who feel wonderfully real.

A sweet, heartfelt summer read that leaves you smiling long after the final page.

My thanks to Kate Hewitt, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer Skies Over Starrs Fall by Kate Hewitt is part of a romance series. And they have all been terrific. Now imagine two people as opposite as possible: Zoe is twenty-eight years old, pink spiky hair, tattoos, multiple piercings, and running an ice cream shop; Dan, a relatively buttoned-up forty-one year old with a teenage daughter. That teen age daughter, Sophie, is attitude personified. When they meet it is just after Sophie has stolen a hand-painted magnet from Zoe’s shop and Zoe has stopped her on the way out. Dan knows the truth but feels like he needs to support his daughter as their relationship is rocky. Then, it turns out, they have rented the house next to Zoe’s where she lives with her partially disabled parents who are pretty much housebound. Some set-up, right?

Zoe is an excellent character who has taken care of her parents for years. In fact, she has hidden them away and maybe stolen some of their lives. Dan is dealing with a teenage daughter and many of us know how that goes. They are very on-again, off-again as Zoe copes with her parents and Dan copes with his daughter and an ex-wife. Everyone in town, it is a very small town, is rooting for them including Henrietta Starr who has recently discovered that the daughter she gave away years ago has died and Dan is her grandson. There is no shortage of drama in this very pleasant book. Is it deep and meaningful? No, but it is fun and relaxing and that is why I read.

I was invited to read Summer Skies Over Starrs Fall by Boldwood Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #KateHewitt #SummerSkiesOver StarrsFall

[Claire Coan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in the Starr’s Fall series, and as it heads into summer, the town has one thing on their minds: ice cream. The Latest Scoop is the town’s one and only ice cream shop, run by Zoe. Despite growing up in Starr’s Fall, Zoe somehow maintains a distance from the locals.
Her world shifts when fourteen-year-old Sophie attempts to steal from her shop. In the midst of confronting her, Sophie’s dad Dan intervenes, causing Zoe to back down. She sees so much of her younger self in Sophie that when Sophie apologises and asks for a job, Zoe agrees.
Turns out Dan and Sophie are also her new neighbours. The one thing she hadn’t banked on this summer was having a sexy new neighbour. Can she go from sharing the odd glass of wine to sharing more of her life? She’s not used to opening herself up, feeling vulnerable, but maybe he’s worth the risk?
I thoroughly enjoyed Zoe’s story. Kate Hewitt brought her character to life with such authenticity. Her interactions with Sophie felt raw and real. Dan was a sweetheart, deeply hurt by his ex-wife and desperately trying to do what’s right for his daughter. He didn’t want a relationship, that is, until he met Zoe.
The story sensitively explores the struggles of living with a chronic illness. As someone who has a chronic illness myself, I resonated deeply with Zoe and her parents. The book left me feeling hopeful. I love how a story can connect with a reader so powerfully.
Thank you NetGalley, Kate Hewitt, and Boldwood Books for the ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Alison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Zoe Wilkinson is the punk/goth looking woman with pink hair who runs the ice cream parlour in Starr's Fall. Her wild childhood/teenage years have given her a bit of a reputation, one she cultivates to stop people realising how lonely she is. At home, both her parents have medical problems that mean she is their primary carer, although she does have agency help during the day. Zoe refuses to have people pitying her so over the years she has discouraged people from visiting an/or inviting her out. Dating is non-existent but everyone in Starr's Fall thinks she has a wild social life.

Dan Bryant has just moved to Starr's Fall with his teenage daughter Sophie. His ex-wife decided to take a job in Dubai and Sophie was acting out in New York so he thought a fresh start in a small town would be a clean break for everyone, also his newly discovered grandmother lives in Starr Falls. Dan has spent his entire marriage kow-towing to his ex-wife's choices, she returned to work shortly after giving birth, forcing Dan to give up his burgeoning practice to look after the baby, now even after divorce she is calling the shots initially taking custody of Sophie then callously dumping her on Dan when the new job opportunity arose. No wonder Sophie is misbehaving.

Their first meeting isn't good, Sophie tries to steal a trinket from Zoe's shop and when called out deliberately breaks it. Although business is difficult Zoe doesn't want to get Sophie in trouble in front of her future school-mates so when confronted by Dan she doesn't rate her out. Besides, she has some sympathy with Sophie having been badly behaved as a teenager as well. Dan knows Sophie probably did steal the trinket and then destroy it in a fit of pique and he is intrigued as to why this woman would cover it up.

Later, Zoe discovers that Dan and Sophie have moved into the house next door to her and her parents' home, and Dan asks Zoe to give Sophie a job.

I enjoyed this, but I didn't love it. I didn't really understand Zoe's motivation for effectively turning away her parents' friends and pretending to her own friends that she had some amazing social life. Also Dan's ex-wife was just such a caricature with no redeeming features and Dan was such a paragon. I feel we may have reached that point in the series where I am less and less invested in the main characters.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.

Bumped for release.

[Bianca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth book in the Starr's Fall series.

I discovered this series through NetGalley and was really looking forward to the fourth book. Luckily, I was able to read this one through NetGalley as well in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for that.

If you enjoy small‑town books, this one is definitely worth picking up.
In this story, we get to know Zoe, who owns an ice cream shop in town. One day, 14‑year‑old Sophie tries to steal something. She and her father are new to the town. As the story unfolds, we get to know Sophie and her father better. At first, I found Sophie quite unbearable, but later on we learn why she behaves the way she does.

I thought it was a very light and endearing story. Still, there’s a slightly heavier undertone because of the situation Zoe is dealing with regarding her parents. Even so, it never becomes a heavy read. The romance between Zoe and Dan is very sweet. Since this is the fourth book, you’ve already gotten to know the other townspeople, which makes everything feel familiar and cozy.

I really enjoyed this book and I hope there will be a fifth installment. I’ll definitely be reading it.

If you haven’t started this series yet, I highly recommend diving in from book one. It’s the best way to really fall in love with the town and its characters, The earlier books are just as delightful as book four. You’re in for such a fun journey.

[Angie F. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer Skies Over Starr's Fall by Kate Hewitt is a well-written contemporary fiction book with Zoe, a small-town ice cream store owner who is taking care of her chronically ill parents and Dan, a single Dad to a surly teenager who recently moved to Starr's Fall. It is scheduled to be published on February 17, 2026.

In addition to the main couple, who are both quirky and likeable, I like that the small town seems lived in. The neighbours are interesting and I would read more in this world because Starr's Fall is the type of small town that I wouldn't mind living in myself. This was my first book by Kate Hewitt, but I think I would enjoy other books by her as well.

The writing is good and I was able to understand the characters very quickly. As more and more information is revealed about the lives of Zoe, Dan, and Sophie, I became more and more invested in the story. I would have appreciated a bit more information about the day to day responsibilities of caregiving, as that would have rounded out the story a bit more. However, what we were given was cohesive and interesting, so I enjoyed my time with this story. I hope that there will be more coming from Starr's Fall because this book set up several things that would make for interesting follow up books.

Thank you very much to the author and publisher Boldwood Books for providing me a digital advance reader copy of this book via NetGalley for possible review. All opinions are my own.

[Ann-Maree]

Summer Skies Over Starr's Fall
by Kate Hewitt

Kate Hewitt's novels consistently captivate, and this one is no exception. We’re immersed once again in the charming town of Starr’s Fall, where we meet Zoe Wilkinson, the dynamic owner of "The Latest Scoop," the local ice cream shop that everyone loves. Despite growing up in Starr’s Fall, Zoe maintains her distance from the locals as she navigates her parents' health challenges.

Enter Dan Bryant and his 13-year-old daughter, Sophie, who are ready for a fresh start. This move is a pivotal moment for Sophie, allowing her to reclaim control of her life.

Zoe’s first encounter with Dan takes place when Sophie visits her ice cream shop and unexpectedly discovers Zoe in a compromising situation. Shortly thereafter, Zoe realises that Dan and Sophie are her new neighbours.

This fourth book in the series stands proudly alongside its predecessors, showcasing the importance of community and the power of friendships and family. Kate Hewitt has once again delivered a heartfelt narrative that resonates deeply with readers. I thoroughly enjoyed Zoe's journey, and each character shines with authenticity, particularly in Zoe’s interactions with Sophie—these moments feel both genuine and heartfelt. Dan is portrayed as a devoted father who is navigating his own past while striving to do what’s best for his daughter. This book is a must-read!

[Cait's Reading Nook · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zoe owns The Latest Scoop, the only ice cream shop in Starr’s Falls. One day, she meets Dan when his daughter, Sophie goes to her ice cream shop. She catches Zoe trying to steal something in the shop. Zoe later finds out that Dan and Sophie are her neighbors.

This novel is about community and the power of friendships and family. It’s about learning to be open to help, support, and love. For Zoe, she has been reluctant to let people in. Dan, however, changes that for Zoe.

I thought Dan was really supportive to Zoe and he was a great listener. He met her where she was at, understanding that she was not only trying to run her business, but also caring for her parents. Dan reminds Zoe that the town supports her and her friends that she has grown up with.

We see their growth and their humanity. We see over the course of the novel how they learn to ask for help, how they learn to seek what they want, and the support system of living in a small town.

I enjoyed reading the journeys of all the characters.This was the first book I’ve read in Starr’s Fall series and I look forward to reading the other books of the series!

Thank you to Kate Hewitt and Love Books Tours for the gifted copy and opportunity to be part of the tour! I was provided a copy of this book for free and am leaving an honest review.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

My kind of female lead🏘🍦

4.5🌟 stars
Great interplay with characters from the earlier novels in the Starr's Fall series but easily read as a standalone. And the three main characters here all captured my heart. Dan the divorced father, his teen daughter Sophie, and their very buttoned up, exceedingly private neighbor Zoe: all great characters. They've all had family drama and trauma, are still working to get past or at least reconciled with it, but Zoe's constricted life due to her parents' illnesses really got to me. To deal with her issues on a daily basis for decades: wow, that's strength and how could she not deserve someone she can trust to unburden herself and have her back? And the way she interacts with Sophie and starts opening up to the other women in town who want to befriend her: loved it.

The romance grows slowly and stays sweet and clean., the ending happy and hopeful. A lovely ending to a cozy, smalltown, character-driven series. It's a sort of antithesis to the author's recent dystopian series; both series I give highest marks.

Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this my voluntary and honest opinion.

[Bianca Duthie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an adorable series. It's the 3rd in the series, and the 2nd I have read. They are interconnected standalones, set in the beautiful small town of Starr's Fall, focusing on someone else in the town each time. I love that we get wee snippets of previous characters throughout their interactions and find out how they are faring over time.
This story focused on Zoe, owner of the local ice cream parlour, and newcomer to the town Dan. Dan also has his teenage daughter Sophie in tow who blows hot and cold throughout and really represents a typical teenager dealing with incredibly difficult situations while also dealing with the usual teenage hormones and dramas.
So many times throughout reading this I was in floods of tears. What Zoe is dealing with in regards to her parents brings out so much fear in me for my future. I love seeing this kind of representation, despite the emotions it brings up for me. I did love seeing Zoe's parents trying to keep on enjoying their lives though.
While it was a very slow burn for Zoe and Dan, the epilogue gave a great finale for them.
I was totally gripped from the start, and could barely put this down, finishing it within 24hours of starting. I really hope there is more to come from Starr's Fall because I really love this series.

[Marian. · Rating 3 out of 5]

audiobook and digital copy review

me atrapó desde el principio pero siendo completamente honesta, la falta de comunicación entre todos fue un gran factor para esta calificación, la historia se desenvuelve bien pero a la misma vez me sacaba de las casillas que los protagonistas no hablaran (y se que es por miedo pero ajam) y trata un tema fuerte (enfermedad) que siento que esta tratado bien, el pueblo como siempre me encanto y me entristece que ya llegáramos al final de la serie pero espero con ansias la siguiente serie de esta autora.

El libro lo lei en sus dos formatos y la narradora fue buena, me gusto sus expresiones!

**********

It grabbed me from the start, but to be completely honest, the lack of communication between everyone was a big factor in this rating. The story unfolds well, but at the same time, it drove me crazy that the main characters didn't talk (and I know it's because of fear, but still). It deals with a difficult topic (illness) that I feel is handled well. As always, I loved the town, and I'm sad that we've reached the end of the series, but I'm eagerly awaiting the next series by this author.

I read the book in both formats, and the narrator was good. I liked her expressions!

📌 It was available as "read now" on netgalley.

[Natalie Intihar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer Skies Over Starr’s Fall was the gentle, sweet romance between Dan and Zoe that we all needed. Starr’s Fall is the most idyllic small town setting to fall in love. Dan and Zoe’s worlds collide all at once in Zoe’s ice cream shop, and from there, their story was a journey of healing, patience, and of course, love.

Much of this story is centered around Dan’s teenage daughter, Sophie, and her lived experiences. You can really see all of these characters grow together, which truly is beautiful. I loved seeing Sophie have individual relationships with both Zoe and Dan and watching them go through ups and downs together was so meaningful.

This book was tender and warm, with very low spice for those readers who prefer it that way! Kate Hewitt’s stories are small town romance at its best, full of found family and beautiful romances. Summer Skies Over Starr’s Fall was emotional and heartfelt and I enjoyed every moment!

Thank you to Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review this book! I received a free advance copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Marie Yarwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fantastic storyline, I really enjoyed this book from start to finish.

Zoe is the owner of The Last Scoop, an ice cream parlour set in Starr’s Fall. She also looks after her parents who are in their late 50’s both with illnesses - her mum has MS and her dad has the very early stages of Leukaemia, neither of them can work anymore so rely on her completely.
When newly divorced Dan Bryant and his daughter Sophie move in next door the fun begins - Sophie makes an entrance into the small town by stealing from Zoe’s parlour then denies it when her dad walks in. Dan has recently found out his biological Grandmother lives in Starrs Fall so after his adoptive mother passes away he chooses to move there to meet his Grandmother and try to build a relationship with her.
Then Dan’s ex wife Lyndsey turns up promising her daughter the world and announces she has asked Sophie to move to Dubai with her instead of staying in Starr’s Fall with her dad and Grandmother.
Unfortunately Lyndsey is known for not keeping her promises but will this be different to every other time or will Lyndsey let her daughter down yet again?

[Sonja Charters · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth Starr's Fall book and although I do have a couple of the others, this is actually the first one I've read.

 

I really loved getting to know Starr's Fall and the descriptions throughout really made me feel part of the community - a gorgeous place to visit or live.

 

I really didn't feel like I'd missed too much in the series so far because our focus was on a new couple as is usual in this kind of genre.

 

This was such an emotional read with the tough topics that are explored on both ends of the age spectrum - Zoe struggling to navigate her parents health - and Dan trying to successfully guide Sophie through those taciturn teenage years.

 

Zoe and Dan's friendship and subsequent relationship was the perfect slow burn and I found this such a gentle read in that respect.

 

I also really enjoyed meeting all the rest of the characters - who, I'm sure, have popped up in the other books, but they added another layer to the story and just made me want to go back and read the other books to catch up on their stories so far.

 

An enjoyable - but heart-wrenching read.

 

 

 

[Louise · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book 4, the finale in the Stars Fall series.

Can be read as a standalone but you’ll get so much more out of it if if read in sequence as we catch up with other characters and get their progress which tied everything up nicely.

So, I enjoyed this story, not my favourite in the series as I really struggled with Zoe. I feel she pigeon holed her parents, although they did allow it and her friends! She was a broken soul and hid alot from the town and herself really. She blooms in the end but it was a slog, i felt she made life harder than it needed to be.

Dan was cute, a people pleaser who grew a set, he'd got it coming from all angles. His ex wife was vile.

As always I loved Henrietta Star, the voice of reason and wisdom. There's alot going on in this story, illness, broken relationships, struggles of parenting, managing work, home, pleasure and life in general. But the friendships and the town comes together to make things brighter. The descriptions of the ice creams were delicious and I wanted some.

Thank you Netgally for the ARC!

[Laura Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Summer Skies Over Starr's Fall is a lighthearted romance in a series about the small town of Starr's Fall. This story follows Zoe, the pink-haired, slightly rebellious ice cream shop owner. She has kept her world small, looking after her parents who have worsening medical conditions. She has given up on her dreams of leaving the small town and while friendly to most of the townsfolk, doesn't have any real friends.
Then next-door's empty house is suddenly occupied by Dan and his teenage daughter Sophie - who Zoe meets when she tries to shoplift something out of Zoe's shop. They meet to discuss the issue and find there's a connection that both of them feel but are hesitant to explore.

The story was sweet enough but I did find it a little repetitive with Zoe's insecurities and a bit of predictable plot line. I think I might have enjoyed it a bit more if I had read the series and not this as a standalone novel. I would probably read the first book in the series to see if it's just me being cynical!
Many thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Joanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I flew through this book. It is part of a series but you can read it as a standalone without missing out on any of the details. I would say this is a perfect holiday read that’s exactly the kind of feel-good summer read that still manages to tug on your heart. I even cried me when I got to one scene between Zoe and her dad. Set in a charming small town in Connecticut, where everyone knows everyone, the story blends romance, redemption, and found family in a way that feels both comforting and sincere.

Zoe is a wonderfully imperfect heroine — prickly on the outside, vulnerable underneath — and her guarded nature makes her growth especially satisfying. Watching her bond with troubled teen Sophie is just as compelling as the slow-burn attraction with Dan, which feels mature, tender, and refreshingly grounded. The dynamic between all three characters gives the story emotional weight beyond a typical romance.

The pacing is gentle, perfectly matching the summery atmosphere, though at times the plot feels a little predictable. Still, the warmth, humour, and strong character work more than make up for it. I read it in about 3 hours.

Overall, this is a cozy, uplifting read about second chances, healing old wounds, and opening your heart — ideal for anyone craving a soft, hopeful escape with substance.

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy the small town setting of Starr's Fall with its strong community and lively characters. This story centres on Zoe who is a young woman in her twenties who has had some difficult situations to face. The well being of her parents is everything to her but she is fearful of what the future may look like. Zoe turns out to be quite a complex character and the facade she presents to the town hides what her life is actually like. Zoe recognises in teenage Sophie a lot of the troubles and rebellion she felt at that age and she becomes drawn into the lives of these newcomers, Sophie and her Dad, Dan.
You have to admire Zoe's drive and independent spirit and her determination to carry on, no matter what. With familiar faces from previous Starr's Fall stories, it gives you a chance to catch up on others' lives. There is plenty of romance throughout with undeniable chemistry between Zoe and Dan.
Thanks to the publisher

[Susan Hamann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zoe has lived in Starr's Fall for her her entire life. She's 28 and lives with her parents. Both parents, although in their 50's, are seriously ill. Zoe juggles her ice cream shop, her parents' needs, and her interest in art, which leaves no time or energy for a social life.

When a 14 year old moves into town and starts causing trouble, Zoe meets the girl's father, Dan. Both Zoe and Dan are attracted to each other, but neither wants to break out of their self-imposed shells. But slowly, life has a way of breaking through shells, and they begin a fragile friendship while still navigating rough waters.

This is a realistic romance (with a couple of exceptions that the reader will be willing to overlook.) Mature adults, with years of pulling into themselves, having real life issues, and beginning to take the first steps to a more normal life. I think it's a wonderful, clean romance that anyone can read.

[Jane Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zoe senses a kindred spirit when she meets Sophie at her ice cream parlour. The fact that the teenager is stealing from her is problematic, but Zoe was once that girl; someone helped her, and now seems to be the time to pay it forward. Dan needs help; he knows his daughter is hurting, but it's hard to always be the focus of her anger. When he meets Zoe, he is attracted but wary; she seems to understand his daughter, and for that alone, he is grateful. The cosy community spirit is evident as Dan and Sophie settle in. They have a connection to the town, but also many problems, and it's good to see the community rally around them. Zoe is a lovely character, determined to help Sophie and Dan despite her own commitments. The friendship and romance are conflicted and gentle, but their emotional connection is rewarding. I like the characters, the small-town setting, and the emotional storytelling.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

[bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a fan of Gilmore Girls, I always look forward to a visit to Starr's Fall and I was so excited to have a new adventure to read.

This time the story centres around Zoe, who owns The Last Scoop Ice Cream Shop, and Dan, single dad and newcomer to Starr's Fall. They both have complications in their lives, with Zoe's ailing parents, and Dan's moody teenage daughter, but can they find love together?

I say every book in this series is my favourite because they are all so good!!!! This one was really emotional for me as I lost my father three months ago, and reading what Zoe has to deal with really sent me running for the tissues, but in a good way!

This story was such a delight to read, and one I will treasure for a long time. If you are a fan of Gilmore Girls and beautifully crafted love story this series is for you.

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is book 4 of the series. The story follows Zoe, the punky/emo looking ice cream shop owner from previous books and Dan, her new next door neighbor. Dan recently moved to Starr’s Hollow with his teen daughter Sophie after a nasty divorce. Dan is looking to get integrated into the town while Zoe is slowly branching out to become social after living a pretty limited life. I would recommend reading the other books first to learn about side characters and the town. While this wasn’t my favorite story of the set, it touched on some interesting heavier topics. The story is chaste (just some kissing). It reads like the final bool of the series so check it out.

Thank you, Boldwood Books, for providing this book for review consideration through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer Skies over Starr's Fall is the perfect edition to the Starr's Fall series.
This time we get to know Zoe who owns The Latest Scoop, the town's only ice cream shop. Little do people realize that in addition to running that shop she also takes care of her 2 severely ill parents. She has new neighbors which include a teenaged girl, Sophie, with a chip on her shoulder.
Zoe catches her stealing form the ice cream shop but also has a soft spot for her as that is how she was and felt when she was that age. She ends up allowing her to work at the ice cream store. While she has to take a lot of time out of her days to train her, she finds it enjoyable and they start to have a good relationship.
But the girls dad, Dan, takes a liking to Zoe and the feelings are mutual. As that relationship starts up they are worried how Sophie will take it. There was a lot of back and forth dating wise between Dan and Zoe, mostly because of her secret of ill parents and not having enough time in the day for extra curriculars. However Dan is smart and keeps worming his way into her life as he is wonderful and starts doing things for her parents and to help when it's needed. In the end it was a great ending and I look forward to the next Starr's Fall book.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.

[Bekky Clarke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lovely read! Straight away it was lovely being back in Starr’s Fall, and even though is the next book in a series you could easily read this as a standalone!

Firstly - I love that Zoe owned an ice cream shop. However I spent the whole book wanting ice cream haha! I also loved that she is a complicated unconventional character and this wasn’t your typical love story. I also really loved Dan as a character too and the friendship and chemistry between them was perfect!

The story builds at a lovely pace, you get to see an in depth view into Zoe’s life and at times I felt for her so badly dealing with everything she had going on. I also loved seeing her relationship to Sophie grow and adapt.

This was a wonderful cosy read. One that is beautifully written and set in a wonderful location! A brilliant read!

[Diane Jewell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer Skies Over Starr's Fall by Kate Hewitt ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Welcome back to the small town Starr's Fall in this age gap love story.
Zoe 28 is the owner of The Last Scoop, yep you guessed it, it's an ice cream shop. She is a one woman business, she opens and closes the store, she makes all the ice cream as well as waiting on her customers.
Dan and his daughter Sophie have just moved to Starr's Fall after the divorce and Lindsay has taken a job overseas leaving her daughter behind. Sophie is a troubled 14 year old trying to find her way. How would you react to being abandoned by your own mother? I know I would act out just as Sophie is doing. Can Starr's Fall help turn her life around?
I guess you will have to order your own copy today. You will be glad you did. I was. Although I do read and like all of Kate Hewitt's books.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer Skies Over Starr's Fall is one book that will put a smile on your face even on a dark day. By Kate Hewitt this Zoe’s story. She is twenty-eight, runs the ice cream shop in town and keeps others at a distance. However, she understands thief-want-to-be, Sophie, more than her father does. Not that Zoe will encourage any kind of stealing, but it is the moody, sullen and needing guidance attitude of Sophie that she understands.

A sweet, delightful story of friendship, helpful insightfulness and love. Facing your fears, stepping out of your comfort zone and risking rejection are a part of this story and life no matter if you are fourteen or twenty-eight. Escape to the wonderful world of Starr’s Fall with this latest book.

[Hannah Symonds · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book three in the Starr’s Fall Series and it can be read as a standalone as I have done. Zoe is the owner of the local ice cream shop and she is happy in life but knows there is something missing. When a dad and daughter move in to town Zoe gets more than she bargained for when his daughter steals something from her shop and when she finds out they are neighbours it blows her mind, how can she concentrate when there is a hot guy living next door. But Zoe has home life stuff going on and does not know if she should commit. It was a lovely story to escape with. I liked the characters and even though I have not read the previous two books I don’t feel as though I am missing out on anything. It was a really good well rounded read.

[Denise Schenk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zoe Wilkinson owns and runs The Latest Scoop the local ice cream shop. When she finds Sophie a fourteen-year-old shoplifting from the store she makes the choice to not tell her dad Dan Bryant. Dan has moved his daughter from NYC to the small town in hopes of getting her away from her bad influences.
Dan and Sophie actually are the new neighbors to Zoe. Zoe's life is jam packed with the store and care giver for her parents. She hires Sophie to help in the shop this summer and starts spending some time with Dan.
Just as they decide to start dating Dan's ex-wife shows up in town. Dan always agreed with his ex-wife while they were married, but this time he is not letting her take his daughter out of the country to live.