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Growing Into You
Drew has one plan to save his family's struggling farm: turn the decaying property next door into a B&B.
But then Georgia moves to town and unknowingly turns his lifeline into her wellness retreat.
So he's doing what any reasonable, rural, ruggedly attractive grump would do: making her life hell until she leaves. Cue early-morning tractors, escaped livestock and a masterclass in scowling. But Georgia and her guests don't scare easily—not even for a man who looks that good doing it.
What Georgia doesn't know is that Drew isn't just being difficult. He needs her retreat to fail and he'll do everything he can to make that happen.
But the more time Georgia spends with his young daughter, and the local community who love him, the harder it gets to see him as the enemy.
Then Georgia's landlord puts both the retreat and the farm on the line—and Georgia has to choose: walk away and protect herself, or stay and fight for the place—and the man—she's starting to call home.
But then Georgia moves to town and unknowingly turns his lifeline into her wellness retreat.
So he's doing what any reasonable, rural, ruggedly attractive grump would do: making her life hell until she leaves. Cue early-morning tractors, escaped livestock and a masterclass in scowling. But Georgia and her guests don't scare easily—not even for a man who looks that good doing it.
What Georgia doesn't know is that Drew isn't just being difficult. He needs her retreat to fail and he'll do everything he can to make that happen.
But the more time Georgia spends with his young daughter, and the local community who love him, the harder it gets to see him as the enemy.
Then Georgia's landlord puts both the retreat and the farm on the line—and Georgia has to choose: walk away and protect herself, or stay and fight for the place—and the man—she's starting to call home.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2026
About the author
Louisa Stacey
4 books20 followershttps://www.instagram.com/louisastace...
I write funny, slow-burn romances packed with sharp banter and simmering tension. My stories are set in small towns where everyone knows your business — and chemistry refuses to stay secret.
When I'm not plotting fictional stand-offs and longing looks, you'll find me exploring the countryside, booking restaurants with white tablecloths (purely for research, obviously), or staying up far too late reading page-turning books — especially romance.
I'm married, a proud dog mum and mother to two scrumptious daughters, and I believe that a happily ever after always tastes sweeter after a slow burn.
I live in West Sussex, UK, where I'm powered by fresh air, good food, and big feelings.
I write funny, slow-burn romances packed with sharp banter and simmering tension. My stories are set in small towns where everyone knows your business — and chemistry refuses to stay secret.
When I'm not plotting fictional stand-offs and longing looks, you'll find me exploring the countryside, booking restaurants with white tablecloths (purely for research, obviously), or staying up far too late reading page-turning books — especially romance.
I'm married, a proud dog mum and mother to two scrumptious daughters, and I believe that a happily ever after always tastes sweeter after a slow burn.
I live in West Sussex, UK, where I'm powered by fresh air, good food, and big feelings.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 19, 2026
this had everything i wanted. so many characters to love and i felt i was able to learn about them without any getting lost or feeling overwhelming. i loved rooting for the strong love story from the beginning and still got excited by surprises and twists along the way. Growing Into You is a perfect book for those wanting to fall in love with a book about community, family, and the passion required to keep it all together.
so proud of Louisa for this accomplishment!!♥️
so proud of Louisa for this accomplishment!!♥️
May 21, 2026
I really enjoyed Growing Into You—it’s one of those stories that just feels good to settle into. It has that cozy small-town charm with strong found family and community vibes, paired with a satisfying will-they/won’t-they dynamic that keeps things engaging without feeling dragged out.
The pacing worked well for me, and even with a fairly full cast of characters, it never felt overwhelming. Each character had a purpose and showed some level of growth, which made the story feel more complete and grounded.
Overall, this was a solid 4-star read for me, and I’d absolutely pick up another book by Louisa Stacey.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The pacing worked well for me, and even with a fairly full cast of characters, it never felt overwhelming. Each character had a purpose and showed some level of growth, which made the story feel more complete and grounded.
Overall, this was a solid 4-star read for me, and I’d absolutely pick up another book by Louisa Stacey.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 1, 2026
This book is amazing. It is such a cute wholesome small town read. The characters are very well written and it starts off very grumpy x sunshine. It was a very slow burn sweet book with minimal spice. The author did a wonderful job making you fall in love with the characters and the story. Highly suggest!!! The book pulls at your heartstrings and makes you want to continue reading. I was sad it ended but also very satisfied with the way it ended!
July 6, 2026
Such a great book about overcoming your fears and striving towards your goals! It was a light read that I couldn’t put down. It only had a bit of spice the last few chapters but you could tell there was chemistry there between the MMC & FMC from the beginning!
Overall I loved the progression of the book and what they were able to accomplish. I felt like there were no loose ends.
Overall I loved the progression of the book and what they were able to accomplish. I felt like there were no loose ends.
October 16, 2026
Louisa is a talented author, she transported me right into the Cotswolds with her writing. This one will sit on my shelf and will be part of my library for all the right reasons!
May 23, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am writing to share my honest review of Growing into you by Louisa Stacy. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have read this book.
Louisa Stacy is a new author for me, and as I prefer to go into most books blind, I did not read the blurb before starting. I can sincerely say that this story is in the top five cozy romances I have read in the last two years—a period in which I have read over 700 books.
The protagonist and the love interest felt like real people striving to grow individually while supporting the community of Cotswold. The storyline felt natural and the side characters were so well-developed that they are the kind of people you would want in your own life. I never felt the plot was contrived; in fact, many of my assumptions about how characters would "slot into" the story were proven wrong.
I laughed, I cried, and I felt a deep sense of pride for the characters. It is clear the author did extensive research, as the details made the entire experience feel authentic. I would love to experience something like what was described in this book.
I am writing to share my honest review of Growing into you by Louisa Stacy. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have read this book.
Louisa Stacy is a new author for me, and as I prefer to go into most books blind, I did not read the blurb before starting. I can sincerely say that this story is in the top five cozy romances I have read in the last two years—a period in which I have read over 700 books.
The protagonist and the love interest felt like real people striving to grow individually while supporting the community of Cotswold. The storyline felt natural and the side characters were so well-developed that they are the kind of people you would want in your own life. I never felt the plot was contrived; in fact, many of my assumptions about how characters would "slot into" the story were proven wrong.
I laughed, I cried, and I felt a deep sense of pride for the characters. It is clear the author did extensive research, as the details made the entire experience feel authentic. I would love to experience something like what was described in this book.
October 16, 2026
A delightful distraction - Drew and Georgia are at cross odds from day one. He needs the house next door (his brother's place) to expand his family's business. She needs that same space to prove to the world she can succeed without her wealthy parents' backing. A contest of wills that will literally result in poo-flinging. But the worse he behaves, the worse Drew feels for trying to sabotage the pretty lady who is always so nice to him and his family. Allowing his heart to soften opens him up to the sweetness that is Georgia, who maintained her grace through all the rough patches he laid before her. A slow build to their love, as they are surrounded by his community and her retreat attendees. All watching attentively from the sidelines as they eventually fall.
Naughty antics, a community of loveable villagers and new friends who show up in the hard times and the best farm-to-table meals I have ever imagined await in this wonderful story. There was a little heat near the conclusion, but the actual ending was so sweet it brought tears to my eyes. A great way to start my day, with a smile on my face and another good book in the "Done" pile.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Naughty antics, a community of loveable villagers and new friends who show up in the hard times and the best farm-to-table meals I have ever imagined await in this wonderful story. There was a little heat near the conclusion, but the actual ending was so sweet it brought tears to my eyes. A great way to start my day, with a smile on my face and another good book in the "Done" pile.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 31, 2026
4.25/5
This is just a great read. Two people bidding for the same piece of land, both of them wanting to start a business that will make them feel seen and accomplished, but first they will have to survive each other.
Georgia is trying to shed her parents riches and wants to open a wellness retreat. She is determined to make it work and with the help of her best friend, she charges on. Drew wants to transform the cabin into a B&B that will help him and his child. So, when he sees competition, he will do his best to try and prevent her project, embarking into a silent war that is just hilarious.
But there is so much more to eahc character's journey, and here is where the side characters come in to add more, between insights, conversations, revelations, they all help to peel a few more layers of the MCs aiding to their relationship.
Just a sweet and spicy story (just enough towardst the end) between a heiress and a farmer who find love and a reason in the most unusual place and way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is just a great read. Two people bidding for the same piece of land, both of them wanting to start a business that will make them feel seen and accomplished, but first they will have to survive each other.
Georgia is trying to shed her parents riches and wants to open a wellness retreat. She is determined to make it work and with the help of her best friend, she charges on. Drew wants to transform the cabin into a B&B that will help him and his child. So, when he sees competition, he will do his best to try and prevent her project, embarking into a silent war that is just hilarious.
But there is so much more to eahc character's journey, and here is where the side characters come in to add more, between insights, conversations, revelations, they all help to peel a few more layers of the MCs aiding to their relationship.
Just a sweet and spicy story (just enough towardst the end) between a heiress and a farmer who find love and a reason in the most unusual place and way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 18, 2026
A properly cosy, laugh out loud rom-com set in the Cotswolds. Georgia is trying to build a career for herself away from her wealthy family's name, and lands a job launching a wellness retreat at a beautiful old house in a small village. Her new neighbour is a gruff single dad farmer with his own reasons to resent her being there, and their prickly start slowly turns into something sweeter.
The romance itself is fun, with sharp banter and good chemistry, but honestly the village supporting cast steals the show. The farmer's mum, his best friend and farmhand, the local postmistress, and a wonderfully grumpy old villager all bring so much charm and comic relief. There's also a quieter, more emotional subplot involving one of the neighbouring characters that adds real depth alongside the comedy.
Overall a warm, funny, feel-good read that's easy to recommend.
The romance itself is fun, with sharp banter and good chemistry, but honestly the village supporting cast steals the show. The farmer's mum, his best friend and farmhand, the local postmistress, and a wonderfully grumpy old villager all bring so much charm and comic relief. There's also a quieter, more emotional subplot involving one of the neighbouring characters that adds real depth alongside the comedy.
Overall a warm, funny, feel-good read that's easy to recommend.
September 9, 2026
I absolutely loved this book! Even though I read it on my Kindle, it definitely deserves a physical spot on my bookshelf. I went in completely blind, without even reading the blurb, and it ended up having everything I was looking for. It was such a cozy, genuine read, and the atmospheric setting truly transported me to England. I was completely hooked and could barely put it down! The slow-burn romance was fantastic, and I really appreciated that the plot relied on strong storytelling rather than heavy spice. (FYI, spice was minimal, 1 chapter at the most). Definitely 4.5/5 stars! I'm so grateful and lucky that I got to read this as my very first ARC, and I can't wait to read more from Louisa Stacey!! Thank you booksirens! 100% worth the read!
I received an advance reciew copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance reciew copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 30, 2026
This was such an easy, enjoyable read. I found myself getting pulled in really quickly, especially because the characters were so easy to connect with right from the start.
It had that light, feel-good rom-com energy, but what I appreciated most was that it didn’t feel overly predictable. There were enough little twists and moments along the way to keep it interesting without losing that cozy, charming vibe.
Overall, just a really cute, well-paced story that’s perfect if you’re looking for something engaging without being too heavy. I’ll definitely be continuing the series.
It had that light, feel-good rom-com energy, but what I appreciated most was that it didn’t feel overly predictable. There were enough little twists and moments along the way to keep it interesting without losing that cozy, charming vibe.
Overall, just a really cute, well-paced story that’s perfect if you’re looking for something engaging without being too heavy. I’ll definitely be continuing the series.
July 31, 2026
Absolutely Adorable Read!
This was such a cute read! From page one, the MMC tries so hard to scare off the FMC and make her new job a total nightmare- and you feel every bit of her frustration right alongside her. As the story unfolds, it turns into the sweetest, most delicious slow burn, leaving you hanging on to every single shared glance and interaction.
Beyond the romance, the community connection and overall sense of friendship in this small town completely stole my heart. Every character grows on you until you're deeply, truly invested in seeing them all succeed.
Fair warning: If my husband looked over whilst I was reading this, he'd definitely catch me grinning like a total nerd. Such a cozy, feel-good romance!
This was such a cute read! From page one, the MMC tries so hard to scare off the FMC and make her new job a total nightmare- and you feel every bit of her frustration right alongside her. As the story unfolds, it turns into the sweetest, most delicious slow burn, leaving you hanging on to every single shared glance and interaction.
Beyond the romance, the community connection and overall sense of friendship in this small town completely stole my heart. Every character grows on you until you're deeply, truly invested in seeing them all succeed.
Fair warning: If my husband looked over whilst I was reading this, he'd definitely catch me grinning like a total nerd. Such a cozy, feel-good romance!
August 1, 2026
Just fabulous:
I really enjoyed this English small town romance with its strong family vibes. It was whitty and entertaining in a subtle way, and I totally fell in love with both the main and side characters. There was an adorable slow burn romance between Georgia and Drew and I loved that they had flaws and were totally relatable.
I thought this book was outstanding for a debut novel and I am already chomping at the bit for the next book in the series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
I really enjoyed this English small town romance with its strong family vibes. It was whitty and entertaining in a subtle way, and I totally fell in love with both the main and side characters. There was an adorable slow burn romance between Georgia and Drew and I loved that they had flaws and were totally relatable.
I thought this book was outstanding for a debut novel and I am already chomping at the bit for the next book in the series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
August 3, 2026
"Growing into you" is a lovely, easy read with a sweet and engaging storyline. From the beginning, I enjoyed the charming small town setting, where community, family, friendship and following your passion are at the heart of the story.
Although there are quite a few characters, it never feels overwhelming. Each one has their own personality and they are the kind of people you'd love to have in your life. I especially enjoyed seeing many of them experience personal growth throughout the book, which made them feel relatable and genuine.
The romance is heartwarming, with a few unexpected twists, plenty of laugh out loud moments and just the right amount of spice towards the end. It strikes a nice balance between light hearted fun and emotional depth.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading the book. It's a good romance with lovable characters, a strong sense of community and enough humor and romance to keep the pages turning.
*** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Although there are quite a few characters, it never feels overwhelming. Each one has their own personality and they are the kind of people you'd love to have in your life. I especially enjoyed seeing many of them experience personal growth throughout the book, which made them feel relatable and genuine.
The romance is heartwarming, with a few unexpected twists, plenty of laugh out loud moments and just the right amount of spice towards the end. It strikes a nice balance between light hearted fun and emotional depth.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading the book. It's a good romance with lovable characters, a strong sense of community and enough humor and romance to keep the pages turning.
*** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 17, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. It took me a bit to get into the story but by the end I was very engaged and loved the main characters. Georgia and Drew were so great together especially the grumpy sunshine trope.
The only thing the really threw me off was that when there was supposed to be a 3rd act break up when Drew kept a huge secret from Georgia it just magically disappeared when Michael walked in to confess why he’s been so weird. And then it turned into a very vivid smut which was such a giant curveball in an otherwise wholesome book leading up to that point. It just threw me off.
The only thing the really threw me off was that when there was supposed to be a 3rd act break up when Drew kept a huge secret from Georgia it just magically disappeared when Michael walked in to confess why he’s been so weird. And then it turned into a very vivid smut which was such a giant curveball in an otherwise wholesome book leading up to that point. It just threw me off.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2026
This book brought so much coziness to it. I wish I had read this during the summer so I could have been immersed with the season, but regardless it was so cute. I really loved the simplicity of the environment and the message of slowing down in life to appreciate the little things. I also really enjoyed reading about the MMC fighting to preserve the farm and not let it get taken by the rich and turned into housing. It reminds me of the book Candy Apple Kisses. I’m soo happy that there wasn’t a 3rd act breakup and that it went straight into a resolution. It was a really easy read for me and I breezed through it.
October 7, 2026
I enjoyed this book and getting to know all the characters. In fact, I liked the characters best of all because they were so well written and came to life. Each one was unique and had their own strong voice, which made me feel like I was spending time with real people.
The romance was a bit slow to get going, but not every romance needs a massive spark to be enjoyable, so it worked for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, but it's a book I would have willingly purchased.
The romance was a bit slow to get going, but not every romance needs a massive spark to be enjoyable, so it worked for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, but it's a book I would have willingly purchased.
October 15, 2026
"I think I hear a hint of flirtation in his voice and I try to look casual, but everything in me wants to run over and give Carla a high-five."
I loved this book!
It immediately gave me cosy, easy reading vibes. I loved the found family element... who wouldn't want to live in a village like that!? The characters are relatable and the humour was fab. I found myself very invested in wanting Georgia to succeed. And the yearning was spot on!
I devoured this book super quickly, but its also the perfect length for savouring.
This book is for you if...
You want easy reading escapism with a healthy heap of slow-burn!
I loved this book!
It immediately gave me cosy, easy reading vibes. I loved the found family element... who wouldn't want to live in a village like that!? The characters are relatable and the humour was fab. I found myself very invested in wanting Georgia to succeed. And the yearning was spot on!
I devoured this book super quickly, but its also the perfect length for savouring.
This book is for you if...
You want easy reading escapism with a healthy heap of slow-burn!
May 18, 2026
This was such a cute storyline! The characters are well developed and it includes all the great plot twist elements of a good love story. Romance readers will find familiar tropes, but they feel new and not repetitive. Small town community meets big money, you’ll find values-driven characters and complex family dynamics.
August 9, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Absolutely loved my time with these characters. The community aspect felt like a warm hug from beginning to end. I laughed throughout, sometimes a little harder than I thought I would. I could see the characters and the village coming to life in my head as I read. It was sweet, heartwarming, and fun to read.
Absolutely loved my time with these characters. The community aspect felt like a warm hug from beginning to end. I laughed throughout, sometimes a little harder than I thought I would. I could see the characters and the village coming to life in my head as I read. It was sweet, heartwarming, and fun to read.
May 18, 2026
beyond focus
Georgia and Drew have the same goal but they approach it from different angles, things would have so much easier for them had they joined forces sooner instead of fighting for the upper hand - but of course that would hardly have been as amusing for the reader as this book is.
Georgia and Drew have the same goal but they approach it from different angles, things would have so much easier for them had they joined forces sooner instead of fighting for the upper hand - but of course that would hardly have been as amusing for the reader as this book is.
May 26, 2026
This book was terrific! It kept me entertained throughout with the gentle twists and turns winding their way to a wonderful climax. The characterisation was spot on and it made me look forward to a long overdue visit to the Cotswolds. A fabulous debut novel; I can’t wait for the next instalment!
August 21, 2026
i really loved the whole thing! I couldn't put it down! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2026
This is an excellent rom-com and I really enjoyed it. It is well written, descriptive and entertaining without falling into the usual cliches a rom-com can often contain. The plot is really well structured and there are good bumps in the road. Looking forward to reading the next in the series. Highly recommend for fans of a more upmarket and clever rom-com!
August 14, 2026
I throughly enjoyed this book. I loved the relationship between all the characters and the local village. Reminded me so much of when I lived in a tiny village in a farm outside of Horsham. A great mix of everything from friendship, romance, personal struggles and passion! Hoorah!
Will definitely be reading the next, just perfect for switching off after a long days work.
Will definitely be reading the next, just perfect for switching off after a long days work.
October 14, 2026
This is such a fun story about love, friends and found family. Georgia is a hotel heiress who is trying to prove that she can make it on her own without her parents. Drew is a single dad who runs a farm and is just trying to make it in the world. This enemies to lovers book is a great read that shows us that community is what makes the difference. Definitely check this out.
May 31, 2026
*I received an advanced review copy of this book and I am leaving an honest review voluntarily*
This is definitely one of those "feel good" books that makes your heart swell with joy as you read it! I enjoyed it so much, even though it was a bit slow at the start for me. Once I actually got into the story I finished it quick. There's nothing I love more than small town romances and a found family trope, and this book had both!
I loved Georgia, she's quite an inspiring character. The way she could simply get a fancy job through her parents' connections, but chose to make a life of her own is commendable. Drew is a great MMC, though I admit his actions pissed me off initially, which was probably intended haha. But I loved them together as the story progressed. A heiress and a farmer? Sign me up!
My favourite character was definitely Maggie, she's such a warm, motherly character I couldn't get enough of her 😭 and Abbi is so adorable I wish we could see more of her! Carla is such an amazing best friend, I adored her. Minty the cat is my spirit animal, quite literally—i hate leaving the house too XD
The found family trope is just beautiful, there's this scene about a storm in the village that I absolutely loved, not going to spoil it here but it was my favourite chapter. It showed how the entire town is just one big family and how Georgia eventually became a part of them too 💗
The storyline is sweet and simple, with just enough drama for it be interesting. It is the kind of story where everything falls into place and everyone lives happily ever after, and I was left with a satisfied feeling after finishing it 🤍
This is definitely one of those "feel good" books that makes your heart swell with joy as you read it! I enjoyed it so much, even though it was a bit slow at the start for me. Once I actually got into the story I finished it quick. There's nothing I love more than small town romances and a found family trope, and this book had both!
I loved Georgia, she's quite an inspiring character. The way she could simply get a fancy job through her parents' connections, but chose to make a life of her own is commendable. Drew is a great MMC, though I admit his actions pissed me off initially, which was probably intended haha. But I loved them together as the story progressed. A heiress and a farmer? Sign me up!
My favourite character was definitely Maggie, she's such a warm, motherly character I couldn't get enough of her 😭 and Abbi is so adorable I wish we could see more of her! Carla is such an amazing best friend, I adored her. Minty the cat is my spirit animal, quite literally—i hate leaving the house too XD
The found family trope is just beautiful, there's this scene about a storm in the village that I absolutely loved, not going to spoil it here but it was my favourite chapter. It showed how the entire town is just one big family and how Georgia eventually became a part of them too 💗
The storyline is sweet and simple, with just enough drama for it be interesting. It is the kind of story where everything falls into place and everyone lives happily ever after, and I was left with a satisfied feeling after finishing it 🤍
May 22, 2026
I absolutely flew through this book. It was the perfect balance of witty, comforting and genuinely emotional, with characters that felt so vividly brought to life that by the end I felt oddly sad to leave them behind.
Georgia and Drew’s relationship was so well written and the chemistry between them felt completely natural. I also loved that the supporting characters felt just as thoughtfully developed rather than simply there to move the plot along. Drew’s daughter and mother especially added so much warmth and charm to the story, and the found family dynamic made the whole thing feel incredibly cozy without ever tipping into cliché.
The Cotswolds setting was also done so beautifully that it genuinely made me want to book a countryside weekend away immediately. Between the retreat, the farm, the village atmosphere and all the little details, it felt wonderfully escapist and immersive.
A really clever, polished rom-com with so much heart underneath it. I will absolutely be continuing the series.
Georgia and Drew’s relationship was so well written and the chemistry between them felt completely natural. I also loved that the supporting characters felt just as thoughtfully developed rather than simply there to move the plot along. Drew’s daughter and mother especially added so much warmth and charm to the story, and the found family dynamic made the whole thing feel incredibly cozy without ever tipping into cliché.
The Cotswolds setting was also done so beautifully that it genuinely made me want to book a countryside weekend away immediately. Between the retreat, the farm, the village atmosphere and all the little details, it felt wonderfully escapist and immersive.
A really clever, polished rom-com with so much heart underneath it. I will absolutely be continuing the series.
May 24, 2026
☆4
Georgia Browning's parents are very successful in the hospitality business, owning a slew of upmarket hotels. Georgia knows they would have a top job for her in a heartbeat, but she is determined to make it on her own. When she is given the opportunity to run a wellness retreat start-up she is excited. She has already trained in, and is passionate about, teaching yoga. The beautiful Appleby House has good bones but needs a lot of work before her first guests arrive. And everything seems to be going wrong. Shame Georgia can't rely on her grumpy farmer neighbour Drew to lend a hand. In fact, it seems like he is actively trying to sabotage her.
I loved this story. It was so cute and heart-warming. The guests all have their own distinct personalities and I loved the townies aswell. Drew and Georgia have great chemistry, though their relationship does start off a bit rocky. Even though the reader knows Drew's motivations for treating Georgia poorly I'm glad it didn't last too long and he clearly had a guilty conscious about it. I don't like when the male romantic interest is a bully. The found family and sense of community in the story is what really had me hooked. I want to live there! Everyone just shows up for each other.
This was a fun, easy, fluffy read. I binged it quickly and it has definitely made me excited to read more books by Louisa Stacey.
~ I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily ~
Georgia Browning's parents are very successful in the hospitality business, owning a slew of upmarket hotels. Georgia knows they would have a top job for her in a heartbeat, but she is determined to make it on her own. When she is given the opportunity to run a wellness retreat start-up she is excited. She has already trained in, and is passionate about, teaching yoga. The beautiful Appleby House has good bones but needs a lot of work before her first guests arrive. And everything seems to be going wrong. Shame Georgia can't rely on her grumpy farmer neighbour Drew to lend a hand. In fact, it seems like he is actively trying to sabotage her.
I loved this story. It was so cute and heart-warming. The guests all have their own distinct personalities and I loved the townies aswell. Drew and Georgia have great chemistry, though their relationship does start off a bit rocky. Even though the reader knows Drew's motivations for treating Georgia poorly I'm glad it didn't last too long and he clearly had a guilty conscious about it. I don't like when the male romantic interest is a bully. The found family and sense of community in the story is what really had me hooked. I want to live there! Everyone just shows up for each other.
This was a fun, easy, fluffy read. I binged it quickly and it has definitely made me excited to read more books by Louisa Stacey.
~ I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily ~
August 15, 2026
There's slow burn, and then there's sloooow burn. I absolutely love the Cotswolds, and I'm all for a slow build up in a romance, but this one just seemed excessive and it wasn't really worth the wait for me. They practically still hated each other (but enjoyed looking at each other?) at 50%. Admitted feelings to themselves around 60-65%. And then no one did anything about it until around 75% through the book. The whole first half of the book was a little sloggish to get through, and the initial build up took way too long.
With that being said, overall I did enjoy the characters and the small town comradery. However, the end just fell flat for how much I had to work to get there. The one intimate scene felt awkward and a bit like it was the authors first time, as well as the characters', which definitely had me skipping over it. For so much of the book, it seemed there was a lot of text about thoughts going through the MCs head (mixed POV from MFC & MMC) and not much happening. The tension and chemistry between the two MC's didn't read well.
It's obviously the right cup of tea for some, as there are definitely people who loved it. But if you're like me, and prefer a bit more action (both in events and romance timeline) I would recommend looking elsewhere.
**Thank you BookSirens and Louisa Stacey for sending this book for review. All opinions are my own.**
With that being said, overall I did enjoy the characters and the small town comradery. However, the end just fell flat for how much I had to work to get there. The one intimate scene felt awkward and a bit like it was the authors first time, as well as the characters', which definitely had me skipping over it. For so much of the book, it seemed there was a lot of text about thoughts going through the MCs head (mixed POV from MFC & MMC) and not much happening. The tension and chemistry between the two MC's didn't read well.
It's obviously the right cup of tea for some, as there are definitely people who loved it. But if you're like me, and prefer a bit more action (both in events and romance timeline) I would recommend looking elsewhere.
**Thank you BookSirens and Louisa Stacey for sending this book for review. All opinions are my own.**
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