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A Bump In The Road
Sometimes, life begins in the middle...
A music festival, a forty-year-old divorcee, and a flirty younger bartender. A recipe for the perfect fling, or a disaster?
Recently divorced and single for the first time since she was nineteen, Shari realises she's never really let herself go as an adult. So when she's propositioned by a hot, (much) younger bartender for a fiery weekend fling, she figures it's time to live a little!
Two months later she finds out that she lived quite a lot when her doctor informs her that her suspected perimenopause symptoms are actually pregnancy.
How can she be the mother of Brad's unborn child when she's technically old enough to be HIS mother?
Brad has plans. Graduate, work hard, play hard, and save enough money to open his dream bar. But you know what they say about best laid plans.
When he meets Shari before graduation, his priorities expand. Number one on the list? Win the girl and have a family. He's just got to convince the woman of his dreams that they belong together.
A music festival, a forty-year-old divorcee, and a flirty younger bartender. A recipe for the perfect fling, or a disaster?
Recently divorced and single for the first time since she was nineteen, Shari realises she's never really let herself go as an adult. So when she's propositioned by a hot, (much) younger bartender for a fiery weekend fling, she figures it's time to live a little!
Two months later she finds out that she lived quite a lot when her doctor informs her that her suspected perimenopause symptoms are actually pregnancy.
How can she be the mother of Brad's unborn child when she's technically old enough to be HIS mother?
Brad has plans. Graduate, work hard, play hard, and save enough money to open his dream bar. But you know what they say about best laid plans.
When he meets Shari before graduation, his priorities expand. Number one on the list? Win the girl and have a family. He's just got to convince the woman of his dreams that they belong together.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 15, 2026
6 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Sian Winter
2 books7 followersSian Winter is a walking dichotomy. She's never had the urge to write before, and yet smashed out her debut novel in 4 months. She sounds posh(ish), but has the vocabulary of a British football hooligan. She writes romcoms, but her mind is a dark and morbid place – ohhh the scenes she comes up with sometimes.
Originally from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Sian moved to the UK for uni and ended up staying for a boy. That boy is now her husband, and they live in the West Midlands with their permanently shedding Romanian rescue dog.
She loves reading romance in almost all of its forms, and when she isn't reading or writing, you can find her forcing cuddles on her dog, annoying her husband for funsies, texting her besties, or possibly baking. You know, outside of doing her actual day job.
Originally from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Sian moved to the UK for uni and ended up staying for a boy. That boy is now her husband, and they live in the West Midlands with their permanently shedding Romanian rescue dog.
She loves reading romance in almost all of its forms, and when she isn't reading or writing, you can find her forcing cuddles on her dog, annoying her husband for funsies, texting her besties, or possibly baking. You know, outside of doing her actual day job.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 8, 2026
Well…. for a brand new author this was a great book!!
Such a lovely story, cute and funny with adorable characters. I was so rooting for both the MMC and FMC. I enjoyed the Dual POV, which really helped the flow of the story.
Such a well written book and if you like reverse age gap and pregnancy tropes and are a fan of a fair dollop of smut, this book is for you.
Can’t wait to see what Ms Winter comes up with next!
This book was quite kindly given to me as an ARC.
Such a lovely story, cute and funny with adorable characters. I was so rooting for both the MMC and FMC. I enjoyed the Dual POV, which really helped the flow of the story.
Such a well written book and if you like reverse age gap and pregnancy tropes and are a fan of a fair dollop of smut, this book is for you.
Can’t wait to see what Ms Winter comes up with next!
This book was quite kindly given to me as an ARC.
March 23, 2026
I absolutely loved A Bump in the Road! I honestly can’t believe it’s a debut book for a new author, it is very well written, with intriguing characters, a great plot and well paced, it kept me hooked throughout.
I fell in love with the heroine, Shari, from the very first few pages. She was so real and relatable and felt like she could be one of my girl friends. On the point of friends, Shari’s group of friends were so endearing and again felt just like my own and I just wanted to be a part of their gang!
I fell in love with Brad from the very start too, he was just so totally gone for Shari and all in on their relationship despite the age gap and my heart broke a little for him every time Shari pushed him away.
There is a time jump of 2 years in this story, which I normally struggle with I’m not a huge fan of them. BUT, it absolutely worked in this story and the journey that these characters go on. I was written really well.
A Bump on the Road far surpassed my expectations and will be living rent free in my head until the next book in the series comes out at least!
I absolutely loved the relationship between Shari and her 3 best friends - Elle, Jaime and Max (and Dennis Max’s husband I loved his banter with Shari), and Brad’s friendship with Trey.
I don’t want to give any spoilers in this review but I have to say I even loved Larissa’s character, as much as I wanted to dislike her she was just too sweet to hate. I really hope we get to see more from these characters!
The story is packed with fun and humour throughout, but also with an emotional rollercoaster I was not prepared for. The way the story is written felt so real and relatable and made me feel fully immersed in the story and like I was right there with them. At one point I was seriously doubting whether they were going to get their hea. I’m pleased to say they did!
I would fully recommend this to anyone who is a fan of contemporary romance, for me it is up there with some of my favourites and I cannot wait to see what Sian comes up with next!
I fell in love with the heroine, Shari, from the very first few pages. She was so real and relatable and felt like she could be one of my girl friends. On the point of friends, Shari’s group of friends were so endearing and again felt just like my own and I just wanted to be a part of their gang!
I fell in love with Brad from the very start too, he was just so totally gone for Shari and all in on their relationship despite the age gap and my heart broke a little for him every time Shari pushed him away.
There is a time jump of 2 years in this story, which I normally struggle with I’m not a huge fan of them. BUT, it absolutely worked in this story and the journey that these characters go on. I was written really well.
A Bump on the Road far surpassed my expectations and will be living rent free in my head until the next book in the series comes out at least!
I absolutely loved the relationship between Shari and her 3 best friends - Elle, Jaime and Max (and Dennis Max’s husband I loved his banter with Shari), and Brad’s friendship with Trey.
I don’t want to give any spoilers in this review but I have to say I even loved Larissa’s character, as much as I wanted to dislike her she was just too sweet to hate. I really hope we get to see more from these characters!
The story is packed with fun and humour throughout, but also with an emotional rollercoaster I was not prepared for. The way the story is written felt so real and relatable and made me feel fully immersed in the story and like I was right there with them. At one point I was seriously doubting whether they were going to get their hea. I’m pleased to say they did!
I would fully recommend this to anyone who is a fan of contemporary romance, for me it is up there with some of my favourites and I cannot wait to see what Sian comes up with next!
March 18, 2026
(ARC review)
Despite being her debut novel, Sian Winter knows how to get a readers attention and keep it. From vivid descriptions of crowded festivals and lake house parties, to creating moments of longing. Once I started I could not put it down. But there were some things that I could not over look. Winter relies on some traumatic situations and stereotypical conflicts to move the plot along. One of which is the mean girl going after the MMC. For me it did not make sense especially since there was no previous information about the character Towards the end she also added a third POV. While I understood the intention I just wish it wasn’t so late in the book. Overall this was an entertaining read and I look forward to seeing what Winter will write next.
Despite being her debut novel, Sian Winter knows how to get a readers attention and keep it. From vivid descriptions of crowded festivals and lake house parties, to creating moments of longing. Once I started I could not put it down. But there were some things that I could not over look. Winter relies on some traumatic situations and stereotypical conflicts to move the plot along. One of which is the mean girl going after the MMC. For me it did not make sense especially since there was no previous information about the character Towards the end she also added a third POV. While I understood the intention I just wish it wasn’t so late in the book. Overall this was an entertaining read and I look forward to seeing what Winter will write next.
February 27, 2026
This is an incredible book for a first time author. I think I felt every emotion as the story went on! It was an easy read that kept me wanting more.
As a mid-thirties woman, I felt like I could realistically relate to the FMC. The MMC gives all the golden retriever vibes. Supporting characters were also well written. The storylines attached to them made sense and added to the story.
I’m a sucker for a book with a good playlist recommendation and I LOVED the songs on this playlist. This is also one of very few book I’ve read that showed properly formatted text messages including the emojis.
Overall, I 100% would recommend this book if you love an age gap, forced family romance book. I can’t wait to read future books from Sian.
*I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
As a mid-thirties woman, I felt like I could realistically relate to the FMC. The MMC gives all the golden retriever vibes. Supporting characters were also well written. The storylines attached to them made sense and added to the story.
I’m a sucker for a book with a good playlist recommendation and I LOVED the songs on this playlist. This is also one of very few book I’ve read that showed properly formatted text messages including the emojis.
Overall, I 100% would recommend this book if you love an age gap, forced family romance book. I can’t wait to read future books from Sian.
*I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Read it in two days!! I felt every emotion while reading it as its written in alternate pov from the two main characters.
at one point I wanted to shake the main female lead and get her to see whats right in front of her, but her emotions were very true to situation she was in and i really felt for her.
The book is very well written, and the flow is very easy to read and you'll love both the main characters and their friends. There is a whole lot of wit written within the characters that makes you laugh out loud even when you're in public.
Looking forward to reading more from this author!
at one point I wanted to shake the main female lead and get her to see whats right in front of her, but her emotions were very true to situation she was in and i really felt for her.
The book is very well written, and the flow is very easy to read and you'll love both the main characters and their friends. There is a whole lot of wit written within the characters that makes you laugh out loud even when you're in public.
Looking forward to reading more from this author!
March 15, 2026
I received as an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
For a debut novel I was impressed with Sian’s writing, the flow and humor was great.
Age gap/accidental pregnancy was done well even if you wanted to shake Shari throughout most of the book but with her being older and pregnant her worries are very realistic. Brad was absolutely fantastic and you’ll fall in love with him. The humor with the friends was one of my favorite parts.
I can’t wait to see what else comes from this talented author!
For a debut novel I was impressed with Sian’s writing, the flow and humor was great.
Age gap/accidental pregnancy was done well even if you wanted to shake Shari throughout most of the book but with her being older and pregnant her worries are very realistic. Brad was absolutely fantastic and you’ll fall in love with him. The humor with the friends was one of my favorite parts.
I can’t wait to see what else comes from this talented author!
March 17, 2026
I received an ARC for A Bump in the Road. This is my First Sain walker book. Can't wait to dive in.
This is Shari and Brad's story...
Sheriff divorced to 40 she is at a festival when she meet Brand he is a bartender. They meet at the attraction is imitate. They have a the weekend fling and keep seeing eachother after. She ends up pregnant after years of thinking she cant have kids.
Brad is 22 at the beginning. She thinks she is to old for him i didn't expect the time jump. I wanted to shake shari so many times.
This is Shari and Brad's story...
Sheriff divorced to 40 she is at a festival when she meet Brand he is a bartender. They meet at the attraction is imitate. They have a the weekend fling and keep seeing eachother after. She ends up pregnant after years of thinking she cant have kids.
Brad is 22 at the beginning. She thinks she is to old for him i didn't expect the time jump. I wanted to shake shari so many times.
March 26, 2026
A lovely read filled with love, opsticales and surprises.
I really enjoyed this book. The MMC, Brad, is the definition of a golden retriever. The moment he sees the FMC, he falls fast and hard, and it was so refreshing to read. There are many obstacles in their relationship, and they very much cause a lot of angst, especially for the FMC ( Shari) , realistically so, but in spite of it all, I rooted for them throughout the entire book. Halfway through the book, there is a major shift I wasn't expecting but enjoyed. This book surprisingly kept me on my toes.
I really enjoyed this book. The MMC, Brad, is the definition of a golden retriever. The moment he sees the FMC, he falls fast and hard, and it was so refreshing to read. There are many obstacles in their relationship, and they very much cause a lot of angst, especially for the FMC ( Shari) , realistically so, but in spite of it all, I rooted for them throughout the entire book. Halfway through the book, there is a major shift I wasn't expecting but enjoyed. This book surprisingly kept me on my toes.
March 10, 2026
Received from Author. Shari and Brad had a summer fling and after a few weeks Shari finds out she’s accidentally pregnant. Shari and Brad have to navigate their new relationship with not only an unexpected pregnancy, but also societies judgement because Shari is 18 years older than Brad. After their daughter is born they have to decide if they are just friends and great co-parents or if there are still feelings there for each of them. I really enjoyed this book!
March 22, 2026
Loved the reverse age gap. Felt every emotion and doubt the FMC had, while feeling every frustration the MMC had. The support given to both characters was everything friendships should be made of. And I’m always down for HEA ending. My only con (if you call it that 😉) was they took long to find their HEA. I was rooting for them from the start!
March 11, 2026
A Bump in the Road is a surprise‑baby, age‑gap romance, and honestly such an impressive debut from Sian. Shari and Brad’s relationship gives you exactly what you want in this trope—tender, messy, real, and full of that “oh no, I’m catching feelings” energy.
Shari’s insecurities as an older woman unexpectedly pregnant by a much younger man felt so grounded and believable, even if I wanted to gently shake her for about 80% of the book. And Brad? Peak green‑flag book boyfriend. Sweet, steady, charming, and an absolute natural as a dad—total swoon material.
My only tiny gripe is that the OW/OM subplot lingered a bit longer than I personally needed. But overall, I really enjoyed this story, and if I’d picked it up without knowing, I never would’ve guessed it was a debut.
Shari’s insecurities as an older woman unexpectedly pregnant by a much younger man felt so grounded and believable, even if I wanted to gently shake her for about 80% of the book. And Brad? Peak green‑flag book boyfriend. Sweet, steady, charming, and an absolute natural as a dad—total swoon material.
My only tiny gripe is that the OW/OM subplot lingered a bit longer than I personally needed. But overall, I really enjoyed this story, and if I’d picked it up without knowing, I never would’ve guessed it was a debut.
April 26, 2026
Funny ,Quirky and lovely
Absolutely enjoyed this book. Loved Shari and Brad as well as their story . The dialogue was quirky and entertaining. It's been a while since I laughed out loud at some scenes. Looking forward to Jamie's and Elle's stories maybe 😍
Absolutely enjoyed this book. Loved Shari and Brad as well as their story . The dialogue was quirky and entertaining. It's been a while since I laughed out loud at some scenes. Looking forward to Jamie's and Elle's stories maybe 😍
March 26, 2026
This isn’t my normal genre but I actually really enjoyed the book! Loved the characters, the feelings, the dynamics between them all.
Really looking forward to reading more books from Sian
Really looking forward to reading more books from Sian
March 17, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. Probably more of 4.5 for me.
March 23, 2026
Two stars might be pushing it. I really wanted to like this book, but I wasn’t a fan. The premise seemed great, but I read 350 pages of an older woman going in circles.
Aside from Brad’s very questionable choice of female friends, he’s great in every way. I also liked Shari’s friends for the most part. I do wish they’d called Shari out on how ridiculous she was prior to the second to last chapter of the book. Shari though? She was annoying as all hell. The first half of the book is her being insecure about (her) age. Every chapter centered around that and whether or not Brad actually wanted to be with her. Her insecurities and concerns were valid, but it was so incredibly repetitive and this book could’ve easily been half as long. I kept thinking that Brad seemed like the mature one of the two.
When “Now” rolled around and it was still the same ol’ same of Brad wanting to be with Shari and Shari being insecure as all hell and still thinking he’d regret it almost two years later, I started skipping a lot -particularly the Shari chapters. It also didn’t help that the majority of the book is from Shari’s perspective.
Poor Larissa. That woman somehow got pulled into a love triangle when it was obvious to everyone that Brad was in love with Shari. She didn’t deserve that -especially after she asked Brad if he was still in love with Shari before they really even got involved. Also, queue Shari getting back into the dating world and forcing a relationship with a guy she doesn’t even like. Because, why not?
My thought 40% through this book was that Shari didn’t deserve Brad. By the time I finished, I still had that thought. Even though I knew what the outcome would be, I really wished for something else.
I skipped most of the second half of this book and could tell that I didn’t miss anything noteworthy. I probably should’ve stopped reading it at that 40% mark. That said, if this is a series, I’d read whatever’s next with the hopes that neither main character is as annoying as Shari was.
Aside from Brad’s very questionable choice of female friends, he’s great in every way. I also liked Shari’s friends for the most part. I do wish they’d called Shari out on how ridiculous she was prior to the second to last chapter of the book. Shari though? She was annoying as all hell. The first half of the book is her being insecure about (her) age. Every chapter centered around that and whether or not Brad actually wanted to be with her. Her insecurities and concerns were valid, but it was so incredibly repetitive and this book could’ve easily been half as long. I kept thinking that Brad seemed like the mature one of the two.
When “Now” rolled around and it was still the same ol’ same of Brad wanting to be with Shari and Shari being insecure as all hell and still thinking he’d regret it almost two years later, I started skipping a lot -particularly the Shari chapters. It also didn’t help that the majority of the book is from Shari’s perspective.
Poor Larissa. That woman somehow got pulled into a love triangle when it was obvious to everyone that Brad was in love with Shari. She didn’t deserve that -especially after she asked Brad if he was still in love with Shari before they really even got involved. Also, queue Shari getting back into the dating world and forcing a relationship with a guy she doesn’t even like. Because, why not?
My thought 40% through this book was that Shari didn’t deserve Brad. By the time I finished, I still had that thought. Even though I knew what the outcome would be, I really wished for something else.
I skipped most of the second half of this book and could tell that I didn’t miss anything noteworthy. I probably should’ve stopped reading it at that 40% mark. That said, if this is a series, I’d read whatever’s next with the hopes that neither main character is as annoying as Shari was.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I want to preface this by saying this book is outside of my usual genre of choice. I also received this book as an eARC and these are my honest opinions.
If you enjoy contemporary romance stories examining the pressure society place on relationships outside the "norm" and reverse age gaps, then definitely give this story a try.
The author had great flow and the storyline made sense. It was relatable and the writing was very modern which worked with with the plot. I also appreciated the sarcasm and banter between the characters. The characters were all well written with flaws that made them feel real.
****SPOILERS from here****
Shari and Brad had instant chemistry, romantic sweaty relations, an accidental pregnancy, and a large age gap to overcome. Honestly, I had no idea how this story was going to progress because it seemed like everything happened in the first couple of chapters. The remainder of the book was good. Sheri really struggled to overcome the age gap between her an Brad and the pressure of fitting in with society's normal. This book really addressed how people judge others and how we all internally struggle with that judgement.
There was too much sex in this for me. I am a huge fan of yearning, tension, "f*ck. it" moments, and slow burn. This tried to be that, but it just didn't work for me. I'm also not a fan of breakups and make ups. Sheri pushed Brad away, but she still wanted him. Instead of figuring out life together, they both started dating again. In the end they end up together, but I just wasn't a fan of this romance storyline.
Tropes:
He Falls First
Reverse Age Gap (she's old enough to be his mom)
Accidental Pregnancy
Online Dating
Found Family
Quote:
"That’s where your real fear is, am I right? Not so much what people say to your face right now to be mean, although that does suck, but the fact that in a few years he might agree.”
If you enjoy contemporary romance stories examining the pressure society place on relationships outside the "norm" and reverse age gaps, then definitely give this story a try.
The author had great flow and the storyline made sense. It was relatable and the writing was very modern which worked with with the plot. I also appreciated the sarcasm and banter between the characters. The characters were all well written with flaws that made them feel real.
****SPOILERS from here****
Shari and Brad had instant chemistry, romantic sweaty relations, an accidental pregnancy, and a large age gap to overcome. Honestly, I had no idea how this story was going to progress because it seemed like everything happened in the first couple of chapters. The remainder of the book was good. Sheri really struggled to overcome the age gap between her an Brad and the pressure of fitting in with society's normal. This book really addressed how people judge others and how we all internally struggle with that judgement.
There was too much sex in this for me. I am a huge fan of yearning, tension, "f*ck. it" moments, and slow burn. This tried to be that, but it just didn't work for me. I'm also not a fan of breakups and make ups. Sheri pushed Brad away, but she still wanted him. Instead of figuring out life together, they both started dating again. In the end they end up together, but I just wasn't a fan of this romance storyline.
Tropes:
He Falls First
Reverse Age Gap (she's old enough to be his mom)
Accidental Pregnancy
Online Dating
Found Family
Quote:
"That’s where your real fear is, am I right? Not so much what people say to your face right now to be mean, although that does suck, but the fact that in a few years he might agree.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bump in the road! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
Instant Chemistry
Reversed Age gap
Accidentally pregnancy
Found family
Spicy romance
I have never been able to relate to a character as much as I can to Shari. As a woman who has currently hit her 40s I felt all of her emotions. I can just imagine how she struggled with the reversed judgement of age gaps with men vs. women. How she struggled with her feelings for a younger man when society says it’s not okay.
She goes out with her friend’s, with their encouragement hooks up with a little hottie bartender and oops finds out she’s pregnant. She has an amazing group of friends - friends I think we’d all be blessed to have. The kind of ride or dies that will be with you until the end. They love who she loves and hate whom she hates.
Brad! Oh this sweet, charming, hot Brad with the panty melting smile! 🫠 I loved his character so very much! For someone so young he knew what he wanted and didn’t waver. It was beautiful to see a man want a woman so much and to fight so hard for her. He grew up a lot intellectually in three years. I liked how his group of male friends had his back consistently and let him be him and didn’t judge him for his choices.
My heart broke for Brad and my heart broke for Shari. Both stubborn individuals but I’m so happy with how it ended.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to be along for the ride for a bump in the road. You would have best friends a girl could ask for, hot chemistry, a love hard MMC with a reverse age gap with struggles from the FMC and the journey they are on!
Thank you for the opportunity to read this beautiful story early.
Tropes:
Instant Chemistry
Reversed Age gap
Accidentally pregnancy
Found family
Spicy romance
I have never been able to relate to a character as much as I can to Shari. As a woman who has currently hit her 40s I felt all of her emotions. I can just imagine how she struggled with the reversed judgement of age gaps with men vs. women. How she struggled with her feelings for a younger man when society says it’s not okay.
She goes out with her friend’s, with their encouragement hooks up with a little hottie bartender and oops finds out she’s pregnant. She has an amazing group of friends - friends I think we’d all be blessed to have. The kind of ride or dies that will be with you until the end. They love who she loves and hate whom she hates.
Brad! Oh this sweet, charming, hot Brad with the panty melting smile! 🫠 I loved his character so very much! For someone so young he knew what he wanted and didn’t waver. It was beautiful to see a man want a woman so much and to fight so hard for her. He grew up a lot intellectually in three years. I liked how his group of male friends had his back consistently and let him be him and didn’t judge him for his choices.
My heart broke for Brad and my heart broke for Shari. Both stubborn individuals but I’m so happy with how it ended.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to be along for the ride for a bump in the road. You would have best friends a girl could ask for, hot chemistry, a love hard MMC with a reverse age gap with struggles from the FMC and the journey they are on!
Thank you for the opportunity to read this beautiful story early.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dual pov
Oh my gosh Sian should write more romcoms cause her wit and humor are so spot on. Alright but I am getting ahead of myself! This book is so time appropriate. Perimenopausal heroine, much much younger hero… I have been so tired of the age gap trope where hero is older and the story is all about him grooming the younger heroine. Eeeow! Let’s face it, first thing is that we need to see more older heroines cause anyone who’s lived through their teens and twenties and thirties will attest that a 40+ woman is so much better at kicking ass and just overall taking over the world! Second, look around! I bet you know atleast one or two older-woman-younger-guy relationships that are thriving! So we need all that represented in fiction please! Thank you Sian!
Ok now that I am done with my soap box…. This book! Oooh boy! I love the main characters of course, but I especially love the girl gang who supports Shari. Brad can bring the love and the heat and the passion, but without the girlfriends surrounding Shari, her story is just a bit lackluster. Love it!
This is an amazing book for a first time author and honestly, if I didn’t know that this was her first book before I picked it up, I never would have guessed! The writing is so so good. It flows well, is witty, full of visual feast and imagery, and doesn’t snag on unnecessary jargon or monologues. Perfect!!
I was provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Oh my gosh Sian should write more romcoms cause her wit and humor are so spot on. Alright but I am getting ahead of myself! This book is so time appropriate. Perimenopausal heroine, much much younger hero… I have been so tired of the age gap trope where hero is older and the story is all about him grooming the younger heroine. Eeeow! Let’s face it, first thing is that we need to see more older heroines cause anyone who’s lived through their teens and twenties and thirties will attest that a 40+ woman is so much better at kicking ass and just overall taking over the world! Second, look around! I bet you know atleast one or two older-woman-younger-guy relationships that are thriving! So we need all that represented in fiction please! Thank you Sian!
Ok now that I am done with my soap box…. This book! Oooh boy! I love the main characters of course, but I especially love the girl gang who supports Shari. Brad can bring the love and the heat and the passion, but without the girlfriends surrounding Shari, her story is just a bit lackluster. Love it!
This is an amazing book for a first time author and honestly, if I didn’t know that this was her first book before I picked it up, I never would have guessed! The writing is so so good. It flows well, is witty, full of visual feast and imagery, and doesn’t snag on unnecessary jargon or monologues. Perfect!!
I was provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review:
A Bump In The Road by Sian Winter
I found A Bump In The Road to be a warm, emotional, and very relatable novel. To me, it beautifully shows how life rarely goes exactly the way we plan it, and how those unexpected turns can sometimes lead to the most meaningful growth.
I really felt that Sian Winter writes her characters with a lot of sensitivity and realism. I think Shari, the main character, is someone many readers will recognize in some way. She is a woman living her life, doing her best, and suddenly facing changes that are both exciting and vulnerable. I felt the way Winter writes about relationships, family connections, and personal insecurities comes across as very authentic and human.
What I personally enjoyed most is the balance between lightness and emotional depth. I felt the story moves naturally between humor, love, friendship, and the sometimes messy reality of everyday life. The dialogues felt very natural to me, and at times I almost felt like I was simply observing real people and their lives.
For me, A Bump In The Road is a story about change, resilience, and learning to embrace the unknown. I think it reminds us that obstacles in life do not always mean the end of the road, sometimes they are simply the beginning of a new chapter.
I would recommend this heartwarming novel to readers who enjoy honest, character-driven stories about love, family, and the unexpected turns life can take.
A Bump In The Road by Sian Winter
I found A Bump In The Road to be a warm, emotional, and very relatable novel. To me, it beautifully shows how life rarely goes exactly the way we plan it, and how those unexpected turns can sometimes lead to the most meaningful growth.
I really felt that Sian Winter writes her characters with a lot of sensitivity and realism. I think Shari, the main character, is someone many readers will recognize in some way. She is a woman living her life, doing her best, and suddenly facing changes that are both exciting and vulnerable. I felt the way Winter writes about relationships, family connections, and personal insecurities comes across as very authentic and human.
What I personally enjoyed most is the balance between lightness and emotional depth. I felt the story moves naturally between humor, love, friendship, and the sometimes messy reality of everyday life. The dialogues felt very natural to me, and at times I almost felt like I was simply observing real people and their lives.
For me, A Bump In The Road is a story about change, resilience, and learning to embrace the unknown. I think it reminds us that obstacles in life do not always mean the end of the road, sometimes they are simply the beginning of a new chapter.
I would recommend this heartwarming novel to readers who enjoy honest, character-driven stories about love, family, and the unexpected turns life can take.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you’re craving a book that feels like a warm hug but still makes you actually laugh out loud, A Bump in the Road is it. Cute, funny, and ridiculously comforting, this story is basically a cosy blanket with sharp banter and a heartbeat.
What I loved most? The main characters are gloriously middle-aged. Not “technically 39 but everyone calls her old” middle-aged. Proper grown up, lived a life, got the scars and the softness middle-aged. And honestly, it hits different in the best way. There’s something deeply satisfying about a romance that doesn’t pretend life is neat and linear, because for most of us it’s more like ambition, heartbreak, healing, hormones, back pain, and then suddenly you’re crying over a good cup of tea.
This book gets that. It speaks to that in a way that feels validating rather than heavy. It’s hopeful without being cheesy, emotional without being draining, and funny without trying too hard. It’s about finding connection and joy in the middle of the mess, when you’re old enough to know better but still brave enough to try again.
In short, a total comfort read, full of heart, humour, and that “maybe things can still turn out beautifully” feeling. Five stars, no notes, except maybe to clear your schedule because you’ll want to inhale it in one go.
What I loved most? The main characters are gloriously middle-aged. Not “technically 39 but everyone calls her old” middle-aged. Proper grown up, lived a life, got the scars and the softness middle-aged. And honestly, it hits different in the best way. There’s something deeply satisfying about a romance that doesn’t pretend life is neat and linear, because for most of us it’s more like ambition, heartbreak, healing, hormones, back pain, and then suddenly you’re crying over a good cup of tea.
This book gets that. It speaks to that in a way that feels validating rather than heavy. It’s hopeful without being cheesy, emotional without being draining, and funny without trying too hard. It’s about finding connection and joy in the middle of the mess, when you’re old enough to know better but still brave enough to try again.
In short, a total comfort read, full of heart, humour, and that “maybe things can still turn out beautifully” feeling. Five stars, no notes, except maybe to clear your schedule because you’ll want to inhale it in one go.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
Given to me as ARC by filling out a survey by the author from an ARC reader group on Facebook.
This book shouldn't be analyzed too hard. Instead, I suggest a reader should honestly enjoy the experience.
Tropes of age gap and surprise pregnancy in books always peaks my interest.
I am so used to these tropes taking more seriously (almost dark tone) in romance. Sian made me enjoy contemporary romance take with these tropes. I found myself laughing out loud at Shari's inner thoughts and relationships around her. She had a wonderful supportive friend group and parents. Most importantly, she had Brad(I do wish he had a better name as lovable as he is ❤️), her baby daddy/love of her life but to unwilling to accept it. Brad is what a man should be, even if he is younger, to a woman Side characters I hope will be getting their own stories. Please tell me there is more to come with these friends, Sian. 😂
One flaw this book had was one chapter. Just skip Chapter 27 if you are bothered (like me) by unnecessary and one off POVs in books.
This book is plain old fun and I am left wanting more from these friends and characters which tell me, this is a great book.
Given to me as ARC by filling out a survey by the author from an ARC reader group on Facebook.
This book shouldn't be analyzed too hard. Instead, I suggest a reader should honestly enjoy the experience.
Tropes of age gap and surprise pregnancy in books always peaks my interest.
I am so used to these tropes taking more seriously (almost dark tone) in romance. Sian made me enjoy contemporary romance take with these tropes. I found myself laughing out loud at Shari's inner thoughts and relationships around her. She had a wonderful supportive friend group and parents. Most importantly, she had Brad(I do wish he had a better name as lovable as he is ❤️), her baby daddy/love of her life but to unwilling to accept it. Brad is what a man should be, even if he is younger, to a woman Side characters I hope will be getting their own stories. Please tell me there is more to come with these friends, Sian. 😂
One flaw this book had was one chapter. Just skip Chapter 27 if you are bothered (like me) by unnecessary and one off POVs in books.
This book is plain old fun and I am left wanting more from these friends and characters which tell me, this is a great book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Bump In The Road is written by Sian Winter and is her debut book. I was drawn to this book because of the 40-year-old FMC and a reverse age gap. I love characters that are closer to my age range!
The book follows Shari and Brad. Shari is freshly single after a divorce and is looking to have a great time at a music festival. When she meets Brad, who is more than 15 years younger than her, she figures - WHY NOT?! What she didn’t expect was the surprise pregnancy that came along with it.
I could totally relate to Shari and her fertility woes because I experienced something very similar. Brad was just an adorable golden retriever of a guy. Shari struggled throughout the book with the age gap because of societal norms.
I look forward to reading more by Sian! Well done!
Thanks to Sian Winter for gifting me an eARC of A Bump In The Road. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The book follows Shari and Brad. Shari is freshly single after a divorce and is looking to have a great time at a music festival. When she meets Brad, who is more than 15 years younger than her, she figures - WHY NOT?! What she didn’t expect was the surprise pregnancy that came along with it.
I could totally relate to Shari and her fertility woes because I experienced something very similar. Brad was just an adorable golden retriever of a guy. Shari struggled throughout the book with the age gap because of societal norms.
I look forward to reading more by Sian! Well done!
Thanks to Sian Winter for gifting me an eARC of A Bump In The Road. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A lovely feel good story of a divorcee (Shari) exploring her freedom with a younger man (Brad) on a one night stand that takes a turn when she finds out a couple of months later that she's pregnant. Never in a million years did she think that could even happen after years of IVF with her ex husband.
Gorgeous Brad is only half her age but he doesn't give a hoot about the age gap regardless of all the road blocks Shari puts in his way.
Brad is very protective of his girls and they maintain a beautiful co-parenting relationship but there is always the underlying heat between them that they try to pretend isn't there.
I did feel parts of it were a bit drawn out but it was very funny in parts and kept me going til the end. A great read for a rainy weekend.
Gorgeous Brad is only half her age but he doesn't give a hoot about the age gap regardless of all the road blocks Shari puts in his way.
Brad is very protective of his girls and they maintain a beautiful co-parenting relationship but there is always the underlying heat between them that they try to pretend isn't there.
I did feel parts of it were a bit drawn out but it was very funny in parts and kept me going til the end. A great read for a rainy weekend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of A Bump in the Road, and it was incredible from start to finish. The story strikes the perfect balance between humour and tension—there were moments that genuinely made me laugh, and others that had me on the edge of my seat, eager to see what would happen next.
The writing flows effortlessly, making it an easy and thoroughly enjoyable read. I found myself completely immersed in the characters and their journey, and it’s one of those books that’s hard to put down once you’ve started.
This is a brilliantly written and memorable story, and I cannot wait to read more of her work. A definite five-star read that I would highly recommend.
The writing flows effortlessly, making it an easy and thoroughly enjoyable read. I found myself completely immersed in the characters and their journey, and it’s one of those books that’s hard to put down once you’ve started.
This is a brilliantly written and memorable story, and I cannot wait to read more of her work. A definite five-star read that I would highly recommend.
March 18, 2026
I cannot begin to express how in love with this book I am! Shari and Brad's story is magic. Every woman in her 40's can relate to Shari we can be confident, experienced but completely insecure when a man like Brad shows us any interest. And Shari uses the insecurity of their age gap to squash any ideas of a relationship between her and Brad much to not only their own detriment but the detriment of others. But in the end everything falls into place.
This book is completely wrapped around my heart and will be one of top 5 books of 2026! I'm not joking it should be made into a movie. I would love to see this on the big screen! Absolutely fantastic!
This book is completely wrapped around my heart and will be one of top 5 books of 2026! I'm not joking it should be made into a movie. I would love to see this on the big screen! Absolutely fantastic!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️ This little nugget who's half me and half Shari is growing inside the beautiful woman before me. I may have just fallen a little bit in love with my baby mama. Shit. ⭐️
⭐️ But what if I give him my heart, and he proves that all my concerns are valid? ⭐️
*slow clap* what a STUNNING debut novel from Sian Winter. It had every bit of funny light hearted scenes as well as emotional heart gripping scenes.
I loved Brad from the very first moment we met him. Because who wouldn’t love a younger hot bartender flirting with you??
Shari is divorced, and wanting to have a fun weekend with her friends, so thy can all let their hair down and party like they are in their 20s. Going to a festival thy stumble into the bar where we meet Brad. Who flirts with Shari.
Of course they spend a night together…. Then two nights, then suddenly they are meeting up with each other. Falling for each other.
Now. I completely get Shari and her reluctance to meet Brad halfway with their feelings. She is older than him, but he was literally on his knees for her.
THEN THE TIMEJUMP! I hated this, because why? Why drag my heart through more hurt? Okay, that’s slightly dramatic, they needed the time for Shari to realise he wasn’t going anyway, they were both it for each other.
5 stars from beginning to end. I loved it all.
⭐️ But what if I give him my heart, and he proves that all my concerns are valid? ⭐️
*slow clap* what a STUNNING debut novel from Sian Winter. It had every bit of funny light hearted scenes as well as emotional heart gripping scenes.
I loved Brad from the very first moment we met him. Because who wouldn’t love a younger hot bartender flirting with you??
Shari is divorced, and wanting to have a fun weekend with her friends, so thy can all let their hair down and party like they are in their 20s. Going to a festival thy stumble into the bar where we meet Brad. Who flirts with Shari.
Of course they spend a night together…. Then two nights, then suddenly they are meeting up with each other. Falling for each other.
Now. I completely get Shari and her reluctance to meet Brad halfway with their feelings. She is older than him, but he was literally on his knees for her.
THEN THE TIMEJUMP! I hated this, because why? Why drag my heart through more hurt? Okay, that’s slightly dramatic, they needed the time for Shari to realise he wasn’t going anyway, they were both it for each other.
5 stars from beginning to end. I loved it all.
March 15, 2026
IT'S LIVE!!! Ebook and paperback are both live on Amazon now, and it's also available for free in Kindle Unlimited.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Listen, I might be biased. But it’s my favourite book I’ve written. And therefore read approximately 2947928 times.
I thank each and every one of you for giving my book a chance! 🩵
I thank each and every one of you for giving my book a chance! 🩵
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