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Tangled Webs
To the outside world, Sage Deverill has it all. In truth, her marriage is a gilded cage.
When Sage flees, she takes her young son to the only place that has ever felt like her grandparents’ estate in Newmarket, the beating heart of the racing world. Surrounded by ivy-clad walls, the kindness of her family and the thunder of hooves on the heath, Sage reconnects with the place, people and creatures she loves most.
Riding beneath the wide Suffolk skies, Sage encounters Rafe Dunbarton – an ambitious, intriguing trainer with a gentle soul. What begins as friendship soon becomes an irresistible pull between two people who never expected to find each other.
But just as Sage rediscovers her freedom, her past returns in a tangle of destruction and lies and she is forced to decide how much she is willing to risk for her future . . .
When Sage flees, she takes her young son to the only place that has ever felt like her grandparents’ estate in Newmarket, the beating heart of the racing world. Surrounded by ivy-clad walls, the kindness of her family and the thunder of hooves on the heath, Sage reconnects with the place, people and creatures she loves most.
Riding beneath the wide Suffolk skies, Sage encounters Rafe Dunbarton – an ambitious, intriguing trainer with a gentle soul. What begins as friendship soon becomes an irresistible pull between two people who never expected to find each other.
But just as Sage rediscovers her freedom, her past returns in a tangle of destruction and lies and she is forced to decide how much she is willing to risk for her future . . .
352 pages, Paperback
Published August 4, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 23, 2026
🐎💔 Sometimes finding your way home means finally choosing the life and love you were always meant to have.
Tangled Webs by Callie Coles completely swept me into the atmospheric world of Suffolk, horse racing, family secrets, and second chances, and I found myself rooting for Sage from the very beginning.
From the outside, Sage Deverill appears to have the perfect life. But behind closed doors, her marriage is anything but perfect it’s a gilded cage. When she finally finds the courage to leave, she takes her young son and returns to the place that has always felt like home: her grandparents’ estate in Newmarket.
I loved the sense of place in this story. The ivy-covered walls, wide Suffolk skies, racing grounds, and thunder of hooves created such a vivid backdrop that I could practically feel the countryside around me. There’s something beautifully comforting about watching Sage reconnect with the people, animals, and pieces of herself she had lost along the way.
And then there’s Rafe. 🥹❤️
Their relationship begins with friendship, but that quiet connection slowly transforms into something deeper. I really appreciated how their romance unfolded with tenderness rather than feeling rushed. Rafe’s gentle nature and the way he sees Sage made their relationship feel especially meaningful as she learns to trust herself and someone else again.
But just when Sage begins to believe she might finally have a future of her own, her past comes crashing back in. The lies, secrets, and emotional tension added just enough drama to keep me turning the pages and wondering how much Sage would have to sacrifice to protect the life she was finally building.
What stayed with me most was Sage’s journey toward freedom, healing, self-discovery, and love. This felt like a story about finding your way back to yourself and realizing that starting over doesn't mean you've failed. Sometimes, it means you've finally found the courage to begin living.
✨ Thank you to Bibliolifestyle, Harper Perennial, and Callie Coles for sharing Tangled Webs with me. 🐎📖❤️
Tangled Webs by Callie Coles completely swept me into the atmospheric world of Suffolk, horse racing, family secrets, and second chances, and I found myself rooting for Sage from the very beginning.
From the outside, Sage Deverill appears to have the perfect life. But behind closed doors, her marriage is anything but perfect it’s a gilded cage. When she finally finds the courage to leave, she takes her young son and returns to the place that has always felt like home: her grandparents’ estate in Newmarket.
I loved the sense of place in this story. The ivy-covered walls, wide Suffolk skies, racing grounds, and thunder of hooves created such a vivid backdrop that I could practically feel the countryside around me. There’s something beautifully comforting about watching Sage reconnect with the people, animals, and pieces of herself she had lost along the way.
And then there’s Rafe. 🥹❤️
Their relationship begins with friendship, but that quiet connection slowly transforms into something deeper. I really appreciated how their romance unfolded with tenderness rather than feeling rushed. Rafe’s gentle nature and the way he sees Sage made their relationship feel especially meaningful as she learns to trust herself and someone else again.
But just when Sage begins to believe she might finally have a future of her own, her past comes crashing back in. The lies, secrets, and emotional tension added just enough drama to keep me turning the pages and wondering how much Sage would have to sacrifice to protect the life she was finally building.
What stayed with me most was Sage’s journey toward freedom, healing, self-discovery, and love. This felt like a story about finding your way back to yourself and realizing that starting over doesn't mean you've failed. Sometimes, it means you've finally found the courage to begin living.
✨ Thank you to Bibliolifestyle, Harper Perennial, and Callie Coles for sharing Tangled Webs with me. 🐎📖❤️
June 25, 2026
This is an atmospheric slow burn romance that has horses and dogs.
Sage flees her abusive husband with her son and returns to her family’s horse racing home. As Sage slowly rediscovers herself she meets Rafe Dunbarton and builds a friendship that turns into more. Their romance is tender and believable.
As her past resurfaces Sage has to confront what she is willing to risk for her freedom and a future she has just begun to want.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Callie Coles for the ARC.
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March 28, 2026I got this book last year when the author had a handful of copies independently printed (before it got picked up by a publisher). The original cover design is delightful, so after staring at it for many months, I finally read it.
I, too, wish I had a wealthy family estate in the UK filled to the brim with racehorses.
I, too, wish I had a wealthy family estate in the UK filled to the brim with racehorses.
September 2, 2026
Thank you to Harper Perennial for the free book & audiobook. All opinions are my own.
I jumped into this one knowing only that it was book 1 of a series, and that there would be horses. And…that’s exactly what I got! 😂
I immediately fell right into the story, which starts with Sage’s flight (with her son) from her husband/home (heads up for domestic abuse TWs), landing her on her Grandparent’s Horse Racing Estate in England, leading her to reacquaint herself with all the people her marriage had isolated her from.
I really felt Sage’s instant comfort upon coming home, and the love her family and friends have for her. I also felt the fear and the ever foreboding threat of her husband lurking in the background, especially as the story progressed.
I really enjoyed the romance storyline. It might be a little fast, but with how they clicked right away, and their shared passion and admiration for one another, it still definitely worked for me.
This one is told in a style quite different from any other romance I think I’ve read before, in Third-Person Omniscient, which gave us the thoughts and feelings of not only the protagonist, but every other character as well. It did take me a minute to fully settle into it, but I actually quite enjoyed it, especially as something a little different.
Knowing very little about horses, I thought everything to do with them *felt* authentic, and having looked up the author now, I can see why (she appears to be an Equestrian Influencer?)
Although expecting a cliffhanger, the ending did feel a bit *abrupt*, but regardless, I am definitely hooked to the story, and looking forward to the next book(s).
Audiobook notes: Charity Wakefield did such an excellent job with this one! (Thought her name sounded familiar and looked her up while writing this, and omg I love her as an actress, so no surprise I loved her narration!) She had an excellent voice that fit this world and narration style (Third-Person Omniscient) perfectly.
What this book is giving:
✅ Contemporary Romance
✅ Third-Person Omniscient
✅ Slow Burn
✅ Horse Racing World
✅ Coming Home
✅ Self Rediscovery
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ / 5
🌶️½ / 5
I jumped into this one knowing only that it was book 1 of a series, and that there would be horses. And…that’s exactly what I got! 😂
I immediately fell right into the story, which starts with Sage’s flight (with her son) from her husband/home (heads up for domestic abuse TWs), landing her on her Grandparent’s Horse Racing Estate in England, leading her to reacquaint herself with all the people her marriage had isolated her from.
I really felt Sage’s instant comfort upon coming home, and the love her family and friends have for her. I also felt the fear and the ever foreboding threat of her husband lurking in the background, especially as the story progressed.
I really enjoyed the romance storyline. It might be a little fast, but with how they clicked right away, and their shared passion and admiration for one another, it still definitely worked for me.
This one is told in a style quite different from any other romance I think I’ve read before, in Third-Person Omniscient, which gave us the thoughts and feelings of not only the protagonist, but every other character as well. It did take me a minute to fully settle into it, but I actually quite enjoyed it, especially as something a little different.
Knowing very little about horses, I thought everything to do with them *felt* authentic, and having looked up the author now, I can see why (she appears to be an Equestrian Influencer?)
Although expecting a cliffhanger, the ending did feel a bit *abrupt*, but regardless, I am definitely hooked to the story, and looking forward to the next book(s).
Audiobook notes: Charity Wakefield did such an excellent job with this one! (Thought her name sounded familiar and looked her up while writing this, and omg I love her as an actress, so no surprise I loved her narration!) She had an excellent voice that fit this world and narration style (Third-Person Omniscient) perfectly.
What this book is giving:
✅ Contemporary Romance
✅ Third-Person Omniscient
✅ Slow Burn
✅ Horse Racing World
✅ Coming Home
✅ Self Rediscovery
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ / 5
🌶️½ / 5
July 29, 2026
I LOVED this book! Very few fictional books in an equestrian setting draw me in like this one, I felt like I was in the saddle too. Highly recommend!!
August 8, 2026
Total, utter dross. A ridiculous, thin plot with one dimensional characters that were impossible to invest in. The books I read as a pony-mad teenager in the 90s were better than this. Avoid….
July 14, 2026
2.5⭐️. I’m a horsey girl, which is what drew me to this book. We follow Sage, a young mother in an abusive relationship who makes the decision to leave her husband in Panama and return to her grandparents in Newmarket. Entering back into the exciting world of horse racing and under the care of the people who raised her, Sage starts to regain herself and make a new life for her and her son. Early on, she meets the enigmatic race trainer, Rafe, and it’s not long (and I mean it’s really not long!) before feelings start to develop. However, Santiago (her hopefully soon to be ex) is not willing to go down without a fight…
The premise was fantastic and, on paper (no pun intended!), this should have really worked for me. Unfortunately, that wasn’t quite the case. For a start, there were quite a lot of small inconsistencies - one example being a chestnut mare being described two pages later as having a yellow mane. While really minor, when it feels like there’s one inconsistency or typo after another, it starts to take you out of the story. I will say that, as this was an arc, it may be that these bits are picked up before publication.
Another thing I found odd was the way it would briefly switch perspectives mid way through a chapter - you’d feel like you were in Sage’s POV and then suddenly you’d get a paragraph from Rafe’s (or any of the other central characters), and then you’d be back to Sage again. But my biggest issue was the lack of connection I felt to the characters - the author goes into a fair amount of detail describing scenery and landscapes, yet in terms of the characters and their relationships, everything felt very surface level and there was a lot of telling, not showing. For example, Rafe is described as notoriously unattached, yet within the space of a couple of the smallest interactions, we’re told that he can’t stop thinking about Sage. The next thing you know, they’re in love 🤷♀️. There was absolutely no build up, no tension and no chemistry - so if you go into this book expecting a romance, I think you’ll be disappointed.
Overall, a great premise and a story with lots of potential, which unfortunately fell flat in the execution.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC of this book.
The premise was fantastic and, on paper (no pun intended!), this should have really worked for me. Unfortunately, that wasn’t quite the case. For a start, there were quite a lot of small inconsistencies - one example being a chestnut mare being described two pages later as having a yellow mane. While really minor, when it feels like there’s one inconsistency or typo after another, it starts to take you out of the story. I will say that, as this was an arc, it may be that these bits are picked up before publication.
Another thing I found odd was the way it would briefly switch perspectives mid way through a chapter - you’d feel like you were in Sage’s POV and then suddenly you’d get a paragraph from Rafe’s (or any of the other central characters), and then you’d be back to Sage again. But my biggest issue was the lack of connection I felt to the characters - the author goes into a fair amount of detail describing scenery and landscapes, yet in terms of the characters and their relationships, everything felt very surface level and there was a lot of telling, not showing. For example, Rafe is described as notoriously unattached, yet within the space of a couple of the smallest interactions, we’re told that he can’t stop thinking about Sage. The next thing you know, they’re in love 🤷♀️. There was absolutely no build up, no tension and no chemistry - so if you go into this book expecting a romance, I think you’ll be disappointed.
Overall, a great premise and a story with lots of potential, which unfortunately fell flat in the execution.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-ARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is such a fantastic read. I love the writers voice, the way she wraps you in the world of horse racing without becoming over-technical and slowing the flow of the story. There is also a great depth to her writing in the way she describes the backdrop to this world she has immersed the reader in. A depth which makes you feel you are there walking alongside the characters. It's a read that allows you to immerse yourself in Sage and Rafe's love story with twists and heart stopping moments that make you keen to keep reading to discover how this story will eventually end.
Sage, Rafe and Sage's three year old (going on four) Hal, are wonderful central characters who are surrounded by loving families. However, if you thought returning home would provide Sage with a degree of safety, this is not the case. Sage's husband Santiago is an evil individual. Aided and abetted by his dreadful mother, he has made Sage's lifea misery with his physical and mental abuse. Although she has managed to get away from him and return to her family in the UK, he has followed her back from their home in South America. Now he is throwing every obstacle in her way, trying to block her from obtaining a divorce, using every devious and corrupt means possible. It has left Sage still in fear of her life, but due to her new relationship with Rafe, she has slowly regained her confidence and is determined to fight back.
Although I knew this was the first in a series, I wasn't prepared for how this first book ended. A real cliff hanger. It left me slightly frustrated and eager to know what happens next. Unfortunately, the second part of this wonderful series will not be available until next July, so like everyone else who enjoyed it, I'll just have to be patient and wait - and put a note in the diary, of course! Highly recommended.
My thanks to Viking, the Author and Netgalley for an ARC of Tangled Webs in exchange for an honest review.
Sage, Rafe and Sage's three year old (going on four) Hal, are wonderful central characters who are surrounded by loving families. However, if you thought returning home would provide Sage with a degree of safety, this is not the case. Sage's husband Santiago is an evil individual. Aided and abetted by his dreadful mother, he has made Sage's lifea misery with his physical and mental abuse. Although she has managed to get away from him and return to her family in the UK, he has followed her back from their home in South America. Now he is throwing every obstacle in her way, trying to block her from obtaining a divorce, using every devious and corrupt means possible. It has left Sage still in fear of her life, but due to her new relationship with Rafe, she has slowly regained her confidence and is determined to fight back.
Although I knew this was the first in a series, I wasn't prepared for how this first book ended. A real cliff hanger. It left me slightly frustrated and eager to know what happens next. Unfortunately, the second part of this wonderful series will not be available until next July, so like everyone else who enjoyed it, I'll just have to be patient and wait - and put a note in the diary, of course! Highly recommended.
My thanks to Viking, the Author and Netgalley for an ARC of Tangled Webs in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2026
Now this is a holiday read. Settle into your sunlounger with this debut novel by Callie Coles, who you might have bumped into on Instagram: she’s the one with the beautiful country home filled with kiddos, chickens and ponies which occasionally bimble through her kitchen and help themselves to tea. Set in and around neighbouring Newmarket, this is the first in a planned trilogy and is an all-senses deep dive into the world of horses. If you’ve ever been stuck in traffic caused by an early-morning parade of exercising thoroughbreds and wondered what it must be like to ride horses for a living, this is the novel for you. Sage Deverill’s marriage to her dashing but abusive race-driver husband has crumbled, and she and her young son Hal have rushed back from South America to the only home she’s ever known: her grandparents’ ivy-clad Georgian manor and stables in the heart of Newmarket. While slowly reconnecting with old childhood friends, riding a lot of horses and rebuilding her sense of self, she crosses paths with handsome trainer Rafe Dunbarton – but is it too soon to fall head-over-heels for someone else, when she should be falling in love with herself? And what about her not-quite-ex husband? If you’re already missing Jilly Cooper’s creations, you will find solace here: Coles is a confessed fan of Cooper’s work and every sentence shimmers with gorgeously vivid description, whether it’s Sage slipping into her grandparents’ kitchen for post-ride bacon butties and pots of coffee, or an escaped chestnut filly clattering off towards the clock tower roundabout. Let the stud’s iron gates clang shut behind you, throw caution to the wind and race off into this modern fairytale: you won’t regret it.
Featured in Cambridge Edition August 2026
Featured in Cambridge Edition August 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Seeking safety for herself and her young son, Sage returns to her grandparents' estate in Newmarket, where the familiar surroundings of the racing world and the support of her family offer the chance to rebuild her life. As she settles back into the place she has always considered home, Sage meets Rafe Dunbarton, a dedicated horse trainer whose quiet kindness and gentle nature slowly encourage her to trust again. However, when the past she has tried so hard to leave behind catches up with her, Sage must decide whether she is prepared to risk everything for the future she wants.
I really enjoyed Sage's journey throughout the novel. Her determination to protect her son while rediscovering her own confidence made her an easy character to connect with, and her emotional growth felt authentic. Rafe was a wonderful hero who was patient and supportive without trying to rescue Sage, allowing her to find her own strength. Their relationship developed at a believable pace, making the romance feel both heartfelt and rewarding.
The Newmarket setting was one of the highlights of the story. The descriptions of the horses, the training yards, and the surrounding countryside created a vivid sense of place that added warmth and atmosphere to the novel. I found the racing world to be an interesting backdrop to the story without overwhelming the central story. While the story followed some familiar romance themes, the strong character development and emotional depth kept me invested throughout. Overall, a great read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed Sage's journey throughout the novel. Her determination to protect her son while rediscovering her own confidence made her an easy character to connect with, and her emotional growth felt authentic. Rafe was a wonderful hero who was patient and supportive without trying to rescue Sage, allowing her to find her own strength. Their relationship developed at a believable pace, making the romance feel both heartfelt and rewarding.
The Newmarket setting was one of the highlights of the story. The descriptions of the horses, the training yards, and the surrounding countryside created a vivid sense of place that added warmth and atmosphere to the novel. I found the racing world to be an interesting backdrop to the story without overwhelming the central story. While the story followed some familiar romance themes, the strong character development and emotional depth kept me invested throughout. Overall, a great read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Tangled Webs is a sweeping, heartfelt slow‑burn romance set against the glamour and grit of Newmarket’s racing world—a place where hooves thunder across the heath and old wounds finally begin to heal. Sage Deverill may look like she has everything, but her marriage is a gilded cage, polished on the outside and suffocating within. When she finally gathers the courage to flee, taking her young son with her, she returns to the only place that ever felt like home: her grandparents’ ivy‑clad manor at the heart of the racing community.
What follows is a beautifully paced story of rediscovery. Surrounded by family warmth, familiar stables, and the rhythm of the track, Sage slowly reclaims the pieces of herself she thought she’d lost. And then she meets Rafe Dunbarton—steady, ambitious, quietly magnetic. Their connection begins as friendship, built on shared respect and gentle understanding, before deepening into something neither of them expected. The slow burn between them is tender, believable, and full of that delicious ache of two people trying not to fall.
But Sage’s past hasn’t finished with her. As lies and destruction creep back into her life, she’s forced to confront what she’s willing to risk for freedom, for her son, and for a future she’s only just begun to imagine.
Romantic, atmospheric, and full of emotional depth, Tangled Webs is a gorgeous escape—perfect for readers who love sweeping settings, second chances, and love stories that grow from courage and hope.
With thanks to Callie Coles, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
What follows is a beautifully paced story of rediscovery. Surrounded by family warmth, familiar stables, and the rhythm of the track, Sage slowly reclaims the pieces of herself she thought she’d lost. And then she meets Rafe Dunbarton—steady, ambitious, quietly magnetic. Their connection begins as friendship, built on shared respect and gentle understanding, before deepening into something neither of them expected. The slow burn between them is tender, believable, and full of that delicious ache of two people trying not to fall.
But Sage’s past hasn’t finished with her. As lies and destruction creep back into her life, she’s forced to confront what she’s willing to risk for freedom, for her son, and for a future she’s only just begun to imagine.
Romantic, atmospheric, and full of emotional depth, Tangled Webs is a gorgeous escape—perfect for readers who love sweeping settings, second chances, and love stories that grow from courage and hope.
With thanks to Callie Coles, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
August 25, 2026
🎧 Audio Review: I enjoyed the narration.
📝 Story Review: The writing was good and I found the characters and their relationships interesting. However, I didn’t really vibe with how fast the FMC entered into a new relationship after escaping her abusive marriage and how she still kept seeing her new love interest even though she knew it would only make the divorce proceedings more difficult than they already were. That just didn’t make sense to me, but then again, this FMC is not me. 😂
This book ended on a bit of a cliffhanger, but I’m not invested enough to pursue reading the trilogy. The characters are very much into racing horses and horse/hound hunts and a lot of the story centers around that, which isn’t a bad thing, it’s just not my cup of tea.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Spice Level: 🌶️ 1/5
Tropes 👇
- Escaping an abusive marriage
- Single mom vibes
- Difficult divorce/threatening husband
- Horse racing/jockeying
- Horse & Hound Hunts
- Suffolk, England
- Trip to Scotland
- Falling in love/second chances
CW’s 👇
- Loss of a parent (horse accident)
- Absence of/neglect by a living parent
- Abusive husband
- Parental abduction of child
- Mention of drug use
- Alcohol use
- Blackmail
Audio Release Date: August 3, 2026
Audio Run Time: 11 hrs, 2 mins
Narrated By: Charity Wakefield
Series: The Spinning Silks Saga, Book 1
POV: Third Person; Multi
Genre: Romance
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperAudio Adult for this ALC in return for my honest review.
📝 Story Review: The writing was good and I found the characters and their relationships interesting. However, I didn’t really vibe with how fast the FMC entered into a new relationship after escaping her abusive marriage and how she still kept seeing her new love interest even though she knew it would only make the divorce proceedings more difficult than they already were. That just didn’t make sense to me, but then again, this FMC is not me. 😂
This book ended on a bit of a cliffhanger, but I’m not invested enough to pursue reading the trilogy. The characters are very much into racing horses and horse/hound hunts and a lot of the story centers around that, which isn’t a bad thing, it’s just not my cup of tea.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Spice Level: 🌶️ 1/5
Tropes 👇
- Escaping an abusive marriage
- Single mom vibes
- Difficult divorce/threatening husband
- Horse racing/jockeying
- Horse & Hound Hunts
- Suffolk, England
- Trip to Scotland
- Falling in love/second chances
CW’s 👇
- Loss of a parent (horse accident)
- Absence of/neglect by a living parent
- Abusive husband
- Parental abduction of child
- Mention of drug use
- Alcohol use
- Blackmail
Audio Release Date: August 3, 2026
Audio Run Time: 11 hrs, 2 mins
Narrated By: Charity Wakefield
Series: The Spinning Silks Saga, Book 1
POV: Third Person; Multi
Genre: Romance
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperAudio Adult for this ALC in return for my honest review.
August 11, 2026
I tried so hard not to read this in one sitting, I totally failed!
The descriptions alone are worth the price of this book — the estates, the animals, the scenery. It's the kind of writing that makes you want to step through the page and just live there. I had to stop at one point and ask my mother (who grew up in Britain, steeped in horse country) what a heath actually looks like, because I needed to picture it properly. I bought her a copy, because I know she will just revel in all the horse and countryside descriptions!
I went into this wanting something uplifting, and this book delivered completely. The plot kept me in real suspense, the character development was satisfying, and it never once tipped into the kind of heaviness I wasn't in the mood for. It reminded me that stories can just be wonderful, and that's not a small thing.
Now I've come back to reality and I'm a little sad about how quickly I got through it. That's the curse of a genuinely good book! To cope, I've bought the Audible version — something I only do when I really love a book. I'll listen while I'm cooking or driving, and I know I'll catch details I missed the first time around. It's my way of making it last a little longer.
One year until the next one, I'll be counting! Great job Callie, well done!
The descriptions alone are worth the price of this book — the estates, the animals, the scenery. It's the kind of writing that makes you want to step through the page and just live there. I had to stop at one point and ask my mother (who grew up in Britain, steeped in horse country) what a heath actually looks like, because I needed to picture it properly. I bought her a copy, because I know she will just revel in all the horse and countryside descriptions!
I went into this wanting something uplifting, and this book delivered completely. The plot kept me in real suspense, the character development was satisfying, and it never once tipped into the kind of heaviness I wasn't in the mood for. It reminded me that stories can just be wonderful, and that's not a small thing.
Now I've come back to reality and I'm a little sad about how quickly I got through it. That's the curse of a genuinely good book! To cope, I've bought the Audible version — something I only do when I really love a book. I'll listen while I'm cooking or driving, and I know I'll catch details I missed the first time around. It's my way of making it last a little longer.
One year until the next one, I'll be counting! Great job Callie, well done!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I originally bought Tangled Webs because I follow Callie on Instagram and wanted to support her as an author. I certainly wasn't expecting to fall so completely into the story.
From the first few chapters I was hooked, and I ended up reading it cover to cover in a single day because I simply couldn't put it down.
The story follows Sage and her son as they leave a difficult situation behind and return to the place where she grew up, surrounded by horses, racing, hunting and aristocracy. It's a wonderfully uplifting story about new beginnings, healing and finding the courage to trust again.
What I loved most was that, although there's a romance at its heart, it isn't just a love story. The relationships feel genuine, the characters are beautifully developed, and the equestrian setting adds so much authenticity. I also loved the old-school manners, country house atmosphere and understated elegance of the world Callie has created.
I wasn't quite expecting the ending, and now I'm officially impatient for book two, Silver Linings. I can't wait to find out what happens next!
From the first few chapters I was hooked, and I ended up reading it cover to cover in a single day because I simply couldn't put it down.
The story follows Sage and her son as they leave a difficult situation behind and return to the place where she grew up, surrounded by horses, racing, hunting and aristocracy. It's a wonderfully uplifting story about new beginnings, healing and finding the courage to trust again.
What I loved most was that, although there's a romance at its heart, it isn't just a love story. The relationships feel genuine, the characters are beautifully developed, and the equestrian setting adds so much authenticity. I also loved the old-school manners, country house atmosphere and understated elegance of the world Callie has created.
I wasn't quite expecting the ending, and now I'm officially impatient for book two, Silver Linings. I can't wait to find out what happens next!
August 25, 2026
Tangled Webs
A Novel by Callie Coles
Narrated by Charity Wakefield
4⭐️
This story had it all: a traumatic beginning, an engaging cast of characters, and a heroine fighting to reclaim her life. Escaping an abusive marriage that has taken her confidence, friendships, and spirit, her determination to save her son from witnessing the abuse becomes the catalyst for change. The story unfolded beautifully, introducing characters who were easy to like, including the heroine's twin brother, the grandparents who raised them, a kind love interest, and his unique cousin. The antagonist was truly unlikeable.
I also enjoyed Charity Wakefield's narration. It flowed nicely and never distracted from the storytelling.
My only complaint is the cliffhanger ending. There is no happy resolution, so readers will have to wait for the next book. If you're looking for a standalone, this may disappoint if you aren't aware ahead of time. But for those who enjoy good storytelling and love a series, this is for you. Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Audio.
A Novel by Callie Coles
Narrated by Charity Wakefield
4⭐️
This story had it all: a traumatic beginning, an engaging cast of characters, and a heroine fighting to reclaim her life. Escaping an abusive marriage that has taken her confidence, friendships, and spirit, her determination to save her son from witnessing the abuse becomes the catalyst for change. The story unfolded beautifully, introducing characters who were easy to like, including the heroine's twin brother, the grandparents who raised them, a kind love interest, and his unique cousin. The antagonist was truly unlikeable.
I also enjoyed Charity Wakefield's narration. It flowed nicely and never distracted from the storytelling.
My only complaint is the cliffhanger ending. There is no happy resolution, so readers will have to wait for the next book. If you're looking for a standalone, this may disappoint if you aren't aware ahead of time. But for those who enjoy good storytelling and love a series, this is for you. Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Audio.
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 18, 2026I first got to know of Callie Coles through Instagram and was hooked on her postings, of her family life, horses, dogs and rural life.
Then she self published Tangled Webs which I pre-ordered from Iggywick. As soon as I received this book I could not put it down. Just the feel of this book in my hands had me gripped. Full of intrigue, romance and a little suspense thrown in for good measure.
It follows Sage and her son Hal, fleeing her abusive husband and evil mother in law and coming back to England. She enters into the horse-racing world where she meets Rafe and this story begins.
Just yesterday the new version popped through my letterbox and I am looking forward to reading it.
Callie Coles is one of the most beautiful people I have yet meet but I feel as if I’ve known her all my life through her postings. Her books can only be listed as pure and written from the heart. Thank you Callie for allowing us into your world. Looking forward to book 2 Silver Linings ❤️
Then she self published Tangled Webs which I pre-ordered from Iggywick. As soon as I received this book I could not put it down. Just the feel of this book in my hands had me gripped. Full of intrigue, romance and a little suspense thrown in for good measure.
It follows Sage and her son Hal, fleeing her abusive husband and evil mother in law and coming back to England. She enters into the horse-racing world where she meets Rafe and this story begins.
Just yesterday the new version popped through my letterbox and I am looking forward to reading it.
Callie Coles is one of the most beautiful people I have yet meet but I feel as if I’ve known her all my life through her postings. Her books can only be listed as pure and written from the heart. Thank you Callie for allowing us into your world. Looking forward to book 2 Silver Linings ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
A Powerful Tale of Courage, Healing, and Unexpected Twists
Tangled Webs is an incredible story about strength, resilience, and starting over. The book follows Sage as she finally finds the courage to leave an abusive marriage and make a brave escape with her son back to her hometown.
What makes this story so compelling is Sage’s journey. Returning to a community that welcomes her with open arms provides the perfect backdrop for her healing, and it is deeply rewarding as a reader to watch her come out of her shell and rediscover who she truly is. While falling in love again wasn't anywhere on her radar, seeing her find love in such a safe and supportive way adds a heartwarming layer to her journey.
Just when you think you know where the story is going, it hits you with a total shocker! The twist and the cliffhanger caught me completely off guard in the best way possible.
Verdict: An emotional, empowering read with an unforgettable ending. I can’t wait to pick up the next book!
Tangled Webs is an incredible story about strength, resilience, and starting over. The book follows Sage as she finally finds the courage to leave an abusive marriage and make a brave escape with her son back to her hometown.
What makes this story so compelling is Sage’s journey. Returning to a community that welcomes her with open arms provides the perfect backdrop for her healing, and it is deeply rewarding as a reader to watch her come out of her shell and rediscover who she truly is. While falling in love again wasn't anywhere on her radar, seeing her find love in such a safe and supportive way adds a heartwarming layer to her journey.
Just when you think you know where the story is going, it hits you with a total shocker! The twist and the cliffhanger caught me completely off guard in the best way possible.
Verdict: An emotional, empowering read with an unforgettable ending. I can’t wait to pick up the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I ordered the self published version of Tangled Webs from Callie Coles own website. It did not disappoint, I couldn’t put it down. Pure romantic escapism into a world of horse racing and sex with some tenderness and beauty thrown in. This was the first of her trilogy and to be honest I was a little disappointed I was unable to purchase the second of the trilogy as it hadn’t been released but can understand the complexities involved in self publishing. Well, Ms Callie Coles has now been discovered by publishers for her amazing talent and writing ability which is just the best news ever. She truly deserves it, such a beautiful, creative writer, I’m so lucky to have had the pleasure of reading her first book. You will not be disappointed in her, now published, slightly amended version on sale in bookshops. Enjoy 🥰
August 15, 2026
This is book one in the Spinning Silks Trilogy and the series is off to a brilliant start with this first part. Sage Deverill flees her abusive marriage to Santiago with her son Hal from Panama to Newmarket to be with her family. Here she feels safe and can reconnect with the horses she treasures. She meets Rafe Dunbarton, a man with a harmony for horses like herself. He is mesmerised by her, but her life is complicated as she battles the paperwork of her separation from her husband. I loved the character of Betsy Seymour and the setting of Newmarket, not often depicted in fiction. It is clear in the writing that the author has her own harmony for horses and how they can heal someone. This is a brilliant debut novel wrapped in a beautiful cover and I cannot wait to read Silver Linings in 2027.
September 3, 2026
Oh wow! I adored this book but the cliffhanger ending …. I don’t know how I am going to wait for the next book! This is a story of family, love, the ugly demise of a marriage from an abusive controlling man, and finding the courage to start over. Set primarily in the world of horse racing and hunting in the English countryside it is a story that engaged me from the start and I am still thinking about it. The characters captured my interest and I was quickly engaged in their lives.
I listened to the audiobook and the narrators did a good job bringing the characters and the story to life.
I recommend this to readers that enjoy stories of family and second chances at love and happiness that contain twists.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Perennial for the free, gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I listened to the audiobook and the narrators did a good job bringing the characters and the story to life.
I recommend this to readers that enjoy stories of family and second chances at love and happiness that contain twists.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Perennial for the free, gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
It was very weird, very posh. If you are in the upper echelons of elite British society, then it might appeal to you, but I couldn't relate. I tried reading it out loud, and in a British accent, and that helped a little bit, but not much. Everything was just a bit too precious, a bit too "try hard" or "pick me". Similar, in some ways to Love Actually, but with unlikable, unrelatable characters. It's about a woman who leaves an abusive marriage and goes back home with her child and starts a new life and a new relationship. It would be unfair to dismiss this book outright as a Harlequin-type romance, but ultimately, for me anyway, it left me empty in much the same way. It just wasn't for me, sorry. ** I received this book for free, but all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
I loved this story. I loved the romance, the main characters, family, the horses, a look into what goes into horse racing, loved it all! Can’t wait for the next one.
I couldn’t quite give it five stars because some parts were really overly descriptive, especially the long hunting scenes (no animals get hurt), and.. the characters talk as though they come from the seventies 😂 this is the way British grandparents speak from the 70’s, prim and proper and old fashioned. I don’t understand how people in their twenties were talking that way, really odd!
Apart from that i generally really enjoyed it.
I couldn’t quite give it five stars because some parts were really overly descriptive, especially the long hunting scenes (no animals get hurt), and.. the characters talk as though they come from the seventies 😂 this is the way British grandparents speak from the 70’s, prim and proper and old fashioned. I don’t understand how people in their twenties were talking that way, really odd!
Apart from that i generally really enjoyed it.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Tangled Webs by Callie Cole was an engaging read with a plot that kept me interested from beginning to end. The story flowed really well, making it easy to stay invested without feeling like any part dragged or was rushed. The pacing was steady, and each chapter naturally built on the last, keeping the tension and emotions balanced throughout. While a few moments felt a bit predictable, the strong character dynamics and well-structured storyline made up for it. Overall, it's a solid romance with an enjoyable plot, smooth writing, and enough twists to keep you turning the pages. Definitely worth picking up if you're looking for a story that flows effortlessly.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This beautifully crafted narrative is a delightful read, featuring well-developed and relatable characters. The author’s talent for bringing characters to life makes them leap off the page and into the reader’s heart. The vivid and evocative descriptions of the scenery transport the reader to lush landscapes and picturesque settings, creating an immersive experience. Heartwarming family moments add emotional depth and authenticity, resonating with anyone who has experienced family life. I thoroughly enjoyed this beautifully written and emotionally fulfilling read and highly recommend it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a remarkable read—utterly captivating from beginning to end. Callie Coles has an exceptional gift for storytelling, weaving a narrative so compelling that putting the book down feels almost impossible. Every chapter leaves you eager to discover what comes next.
Both my wife and I found ourselves completely engrossed, turning page after page long into the evening. Without hesitation, we can say this is one of the finest books we have ever read, and quite possibly our favourite to date. An unforgettable novel that we would wholeheartedly recommend.
Both my wife and I found ourselves completely engrossed, turning page after page long into the evening. Without hesitation, we can say this is one of the finest books we have ever read, and quite possibly our favourite to date. An unforgettable novel that we would wholeheartedly recommend.
July 20, 2026
Beautifully written. The descriptions of the country, the estates, the riding and altogether bucolic atmosphere…
I devoured this book over a weekend and thoroughly enjoyed it, despite a few continuity errors- suspect overzealous editing?(who is Andrew???? Has someone been renamed??? (He only appears in the book club questions.) Hal’s nursery twist- despite no mention whatsoever of him attending nursery at all until fateful twist)
Still, I really enjoyed it and can’t wait for part 2!
So many authors have been hailed the next Jilly- CC lives up to that accolade!
I devoured this book over a weekend and thoroughly enjoyed it, despite a few continuity errors- suspect overzealous editing?(who is Andrew???? Has someone been renamed??? (He only appears in the book club questions.) Hal’s nursery twist- despite no mention whatsoever of him attending nursery at all until fateful twist)
Still, I really enjoyed it and can’t wait for part 2!
So many authors have been hailed the next Jilly- CC lives up to that accolade!
July 23, 2026
I loved Tangled Webs even before I started reading.Being an avid follower of Callie Coles' instagram page, I felt that whatever she wrote would be worth reading. Well it was, in spades. An intriguing tale of a victim of domestic abuse, her escape to the family horse farm on the other side of the world and the adventure, drama and romance that ensues. I managed, with difficulty, to stretch it out over three days. My ONLY COMPLAINT is having to wait about a year for the next book.! Great story of a mother's efforts to protect her child, ( and herself). Great read.
Did Not Finish
August 21, 2026Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy!
I put this down at around the 20% mark. Ultimately this was a case of mismatch of writing-style preferences. I wasn’t a fan of the frequent switching of POVs within a single page (or within the same paragraph in some cases) and a lot of the story felt more “tell” than “show”. I did enjoy the scenes with the horses and was able to visualize the setting perfectly because she puts a lot of effort into describing everything, but as a whole this book just wasn’t for me unfortunately.
I put this down at around the 20% mark. Ultimately this was a case of mismatch of writing-style preferences. I wasn’t a fan of the frequent switching of POVs within a single page (or within the same paragraph in some cases) and a lot of the story felt more “tell” than “show”. I did enjoy the scenes with the horses and was able to visualize the setting perfectly because she puts a lot of effort into describing everything, but as a whole this book just wasn’t for me unfortunately.
August 27, 2026
Great read! Not sure I can wait until July 2027 for part 2 - the end of book 1 is a real cliffhanger. I was expecting some nefarious activity from the baddies in the story - but not that we would need to wait til the end of the book for them to really show their true colours! Brava Callie Coles! The book does give off entertaining Jilly Cooper vibes but reminded me more of her earlier works eg Imogen, Bella etc. A jolly gallop through a world of horses, stately homes and interesting aristos.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beautifully atmospheric for those of us who love horses, dogs, whimsical childhoods, the great outdoors, good manners, and a love story. It was a joy to be transported out of the city where I live and into Coles’ pages!
My only complaint is I finished it in a day and could happily immerse myself in her world for many more.
My only complaint is I finished it in a day and could happily immerse myself in her world for many more.
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