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Autumn Leaves: Chick-lit Anthology
Sometimes the end is just the beginning…
Leaving Princess Kate by Samantha Bond
Mark and Kate were the perfect couple, living the perfect life in their fairytale cottage, until it all went terribly wrong. Now Mark is certain Kate is going to leave him – but not if he leaves her first…
Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso
Shy journalist Misty wasn’t happy about leaving the bright lights of the city to follow an ageing rock band on tour. Then she met handsome photographer Jesse, and now leaving him is the last thing on her mind…
Run to You by Laura Greaves
Melissa signed up for the New York City Marathon in an effort to run away from her troubled past. Can she leave her broken heart behind when new romance beckons?
Rebound by Georgina Penney
Samantha left Peaceful Bay without a backwards glance – but now she’s back in town, broke, unemployed and living with her OCD mother. Even worse, her childhood nemesis, Craig, is enjoying every minute of her downfall…
Just Friends by Katie Spain
Nathan is the man of her dreams, but even on their wedding night she knows she should leave him. Is their love enough to make it work?
Deluge by Sandy Vaile
Carly left Elliot more than a decade ago, and the pain still runs deep. Now an act of God will force them together - but can it reconcile their hearts?
Six of Australia’s leading chick lit authors present a moving and hilarious collection of autumnal stories that show the seasons may change, but true love is perennial.
What if leaving one life behind meant the best was yet to come?
Leaving Princess Kate by Samantha Bond
Mark and Kate were the perfect couple, living the perfect life in their fairytale cottage, until it all went terribly wrong. Now Mark is certain Kate is going to leave him – but not if he leaves her first…
Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso
Shy journalist Misty wasn’t happy about leaving the bright lights of the city to follow an ageing rock band on tour. Then she met handsome photographer Jesse, and now leaving him is the last thing on her mind…
Run to You by Laura Greaves
Melissa signed up for the New York City Marathon in an effort to run away from her troubled past. Can she leave her broken heart behind when new romance beckons?
Rebound by Georgina Penney
Samantha left Peaceful Bay without a backwards glance – but now she’s back in town, broke, unemployed and living with her OCD mother. Even worse, her childhood nemesis, Craig, is enjoying every minute of her downfall…
Just Friends by Katie Spain
Nathan is the man of her dreams, but even on their wedding night she knows she should leave him. Is their love enough to make it work?
Deluge by Sandy Vaile
Carly left Elliot more than a decade ago, and the pain still runs deep. Now an act of God will force them together - but can it reconcile their hearts?
Six of Australia’s leading chick lit authors present a moving and hilarious collection of autumnal stories that show the seasons may change, but true love is perennial.
What if leaving one life behind meant the best was yet to come?
110 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 17, 2015
71 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Bond
17 books2 followersSamantha Bond is a reformed corporate lawyer, now writer and public servant. Her creative work has been published in numerous national literary journals, anthologies and magazines. She has an Advanced Diploma of Professional Writing, winning the award for Highest Overall Achievement for her graduating class of 2014 and now teaches and mentors in that course.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 4, 2015
A wonderful anthology that I read in a seasonally-appropriate context (ummm, I read it in autumn). Penned by primarily Adelaide authors (with one Sydneysider and an expat living in Scotland thrown in), this is a collection of the trials and vicissitudes of that thing we call love, all set amongst the turning leaves. The stories are heart-warming and engaging and are a true pleasure to read. One reads like an impossibly bad dream, but you still don;t want to put it down. I was apparently addicted to fantasy, horror, thrillers and war tales when I picked up my first romance, written by the very-talented Carla Caruso. And now it appears I won't be putting them down any time soon. Oh, I still read the other stuff, but I think I'll always find time to slip a romance into the list, now and again... I would recommend this to people that like being in love, or falling in love, or people that like being alive. Ok, I'd recommend it to anybody.
September 13, 2021
I wanted to read something with an Autumn feel to it and this book fitted perfectly. It was a lovely anthology of autumn short stories that I wished were longer! All the stories were enjoyable and not one let the anthology down. I recommend reading this book as an inbetween read, something that is light and doesn't drag on.
September 30, 2023
Cute Short Story Novella
The stories are just what I needed on this beautiful Fall morning. This was a quick read but so good.
The stories are just what I needed on this beautiful Fall morning. This was a quick read but so good.
June 20, 2015
Lots of fun. Good writing. Loved Georgina Penney's story. Very good coffee/lunch reading - choose one story at a time.
April 19, 2023
Here is my review on each of the 6 awesome stories
Loving princess Kate by Samantha Bond
Sometime a little misunderstanding can ruin a beautiful relationship. Misinterpretation of one text or email can create such a mess that it can overpower years of trust and love. Loving princess Kate, the first story in Autumn leaves by 6 of Australia’s chick-lit authors explains that sometimes we just need to trust the one we love and though we might doubt them at times, we must not lose faith in the love we have for them.
The story is also a depiction of human psychology that if we have something that we believe is out of our league, we attract towards it more and even after getting it we continuously looking for the other shoe to drop. Like Mark attracted to a beautiful girl in the bar, Kate, but all his friends were not convinced that Kate love him for himself but for his money. And when a stronger and powerful man appears in their horizon he start feeling less comparing to him and then and there that weakness start building up and comes out as depression and doubt. His self-destructive behaviour end the beautiful love he had with Kate.
Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso
A cute, spontaneous, blooming romance from Carla Caruso about a writer and a photographer who found themselves enjoying each other's company and would rather get to know each other better than actually covering the band they were supposed to cover. A fast and charming read of a blooming relationship that will surely make you smile.
Run To You by Laura Greaves
Run to You was probably my favorite among the six stories. Melissa and Mr.Polar Bear started off as strangers but somehow along the marathon they got to know each other a little. At first, Mr. Polar bear was too fussy for Melissa but when she heard his story she somehow soften to him. And who hasn't fancied a firefighter anyway? Melissa also didn't want to tell her story but what's the harm of telling your story to someone you wouldn't see again?
It was a beautiful story of moving on and letting yourself heal after an awful relationship. I actually wanted to read more but unfortunately it was only a short story. And his name was Brooks, by the way.
Rebound by Georgina Penny
you must have read a lot of stories were the girl and the guy always fighting but turned out they actually liked each other. Because sometimes it was easier to tease someone than actually admitting that you like them. And Samantha was just too busy hating Craig that she wasn't able to get the hints Craig was giving.
Just Friends by Katie Spain
Nathan was the man of her dreams. Too bad she wasn't the man of Nathan's dreams. They agreed that by thirty if they weren't still married then they would marry each other then have a baby (or babies). Everyone around them can tell that they loved each other more than best friends loved each other but what can she do when Nathan liked men more than he liked her?
Deluge by Sandy Vaile
Carly Shaw had no choice but to leave Cockatoo Flat to find a high paying job so she could pay the debts her father left them. When she left she didn't only leave her mother behind but she also had to end things with the love of her life, Elliot Fraser, who took the break up the hard way. Now that she was back to look after her sick mother, Elliot still seemed mad at her for leaving but when her mother, Jean, decided to play matchmaker, Carly had to at least indulge her mother for wanting to see her daughter get married.
I always love stories about second chances because everyone deserves a second chance, right? This last story by Sandy Vaile was about Samantha giving up her chance at love for the sake of saving her family from debts. Because sometimes life decided we only get to choose one between love and family and most of the time we choose family over love which is unfair but life is a bitch like that. But hey, that's the reason why we have second chances right? And third and fourth and who's to say we don't get a fifth chance?
Overall, I enjoyed this collection of short stories! My favorite was Stolen kisses and Run To You but each was lovely in its own way. Hope you enjoy it too! :)
Loving princess Kate by Samantha Bond
Sometime a little misunderstanding can ruin a beautiful relationship. Misinterpretation of one text or email can create such a mess that it can overpower years of trust and love. Loving princess Kate, the first story in Autumn leaves by 6 of Australia’s chick-lit authors explains that sometimes we just need to trust the one we love and though we might doubt them at times, we must not lose faith in the love we have for them.
The story is also a depiction of human psychology that if we have something that we believe is out of our league, we attract towards it more and even after getting it we continuously looking for the other shoe to drop. Like Mark attracted to a beautiful girl in the bar, Kate, but all his friends were not convinced that Kate love him for himself but for his money. And when a stronger and powerful man appears in their horizon he start feeling less comparing to him and then and there that weakness start building up and comes out as depression and doubt. His self-destructive behaviour end the beautiful love he had with Kate.
Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso
A cute, spontaneous, blooming romance from Carla Caruso about a writer and a photographer who found themselves enjoying each other's company and would rather get to know each other better than actually covering the band they were supposed to cover. A fast and charming read of a blooming relationship that will surely make you smile.
Run To You by Laura Greaves
Run to You was probably my favorite among the six stories. Melissa and Mr.Polar Bear started off as strangers but somehow along the marathon they got to know each other a little. At first, Mr. Polar bear was too fussy for Melissa but when she heard his story she somehow soften to him. And who hasn't fancied a firefighter anyway? Melissa also didn't want to tell her story but what's the harm of telling your story to someone you wouldn't see again?
It was a beautiful story of moving on and letting yourself heal after an awful relationship. I actually wanted to read more but unfortunately it was only a short story. And his name was Brooks, by the way.
Rebound by Georgina Penny
you must have read a lot of stories were the girl and the guy always fighting but turned out they actually liked each other. Because sometimes it was easier to tease someone than actually admitting that you like them. And Samantha was just too busy hating Craig that she wasn't able to get the hints Craig was giving.
Just Friends by Katie Spain
Nathan was the man of her dreams. Too bad she wasn't the man of Nathan's dreams. They agreed that by thirty if they weren't still married then they would marry each other then have a baby (or babies). Everyone around them can tell that they loved each other more than best friends loved each other but what can she do when Nathan liked men more than he liked her?
Deluge by Sandy Vaile
Carly Shaw had no choice but to leave Cockatoo Flat to find a high paying job so she could pay the debts her father left them. When she left she didn't only leave her mother behind but she also had to end things with the love of her life, Elliot Fraser, who took the break up the hard way. Now that she was back to look after her sick mother, Elliot still seemed mad at her for leaving but when her mother, Jean, decided to play matchmaker, Carly had to at least indulge her mother for wanting to see her daughter get married.
I always love stories about second chances because everyone deserves a second chance, right? This last story by Sandy Vaile was about Samantha giving up her chance at love for the sake of saving her family from debts. Because sometimes life decided we only get to choose one between love and family and most of the time we choose family over love which is unfair but life is a bitch like that. But hey, that's the reason why we have second chances right? And third and fourth and who's to say we don't get a fifth chance?
Overall, I enjoyed this collection of short stories! My favorite was Stolen kisses and Run To You but each was lovely in its own way. Hope you enjoy it too! :)
August 15, 2016
Leaving Princess Kate by Samantha Bond
"She is excited, like a little kid and the bits aren't just adding up. Dread is building like a rock in my gut. Tanya is naked in our bedroom and my girlfriend isn't acting like she's about to dump me."
I think Leaving Princess Kate is the story some of us might have already experienced before. The story of having a beautiful relationship with someone but one text or email or misunderstanding ruined everything. This first story in this chick-lit anthology by 6 of Australias's chick-lit authors tells us that sometimes we just need to trust the one we love and though we might doubt them at times, we must not lose faith in the love we have for them.
Mark knew the moment he laid eyes on Kate that if he worked hard, then Kate would be a part of his life. He was out in a bar one night with his workmates when he saw Kate, all beautiful and playful with her friends. He stole glances at her and he knew Kate was doing the same. From then on, Mark made sure that he always catch Kate at the bar everytime. Soon enough, with a bit of courage and maybe a couple of beers, Mark decided to be a man and walked towards Kate and kissed her. It was when he knew that Kate was feeling the same. After some time, they saw a beautiful townhouse, one Kate really loved, and realized it was where they wanted to build a life together. For a year everything was fine and easy and hot until Mark saw a text message in Kate's phone. He knew he wasn't supposed to see it but unfortunately he did. Since then he started to suspect Kate which eventually led to his foul moods.
I know it's just normal for a couple to fight once in a while, it's healthy they say, and you can't really control your partner but I think all you could do, if you really love him/her, is to trust him/her. Because loving someone means trusting them. I knew Mark wanted to believe that Kate was still that girl who loved him but after that incident of reading her messages, he knew she had broken his trust. It was hard for him, it took everything in him but if only he trusted Kate enough, if only he trusted Kate to still be that girl he fell in love with and if only he waited.
Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso
Finally, Misty cleared her throat. "You know, Katy Perry's doing her first tour date in Adelaide next month. I could ask to cover it and put in a request for you." She shrugged, her mouth twisting. "We could take it from there. See what happens."
On her last day of covering the story of the band The Stolen, on their show in Adelaide, Misty Welbourne could only wish for time to drag on for so long. She wasn't so excited when she was first assigned with this assignment but as she spent the last eight days with Jesse Ramage, freelance photographer, she suddenly wished for an extra time with him. Jesse, as a freelancer, didn't have much of a choice but to take this assignment. He wasn't quite thrilled about following some rock band on their show but with Misty along with him, he realized that it wasn't bad at all.
A cute, spontaneous, blooming romance from Carla Caruso about a writer and a photographer who found themselves enjoying each other's company and would rather get to know each other better than actually covering the band they were supposed to cover. A fast and charming read of a blooming relationship that will surely make you smile.
Run To You by Laura Greaves
"This marathon is supposed to be my catarthis, my phoenix-rising-from-the-ashes moment. It's not supposed to be a first date."
When Melissa Burnley decided to run for the New York Marathon, it was to prove her ex that she wasn't indecisive, that she can commit to something and see it until the end. And so it was a cold November and she was running (away from her ex) along with 50,000 other participants including Mr. Polar Bear who happened to decide he wanted to become her running partner. What a not so good beginning turned into a heartwarming talk and run between Melissa and a man she named Mr. Polar Bear.
Run to You was probably my favorite among the six stories. Melissa and Mr.Polar Bear started off as strangers but somehow along the marathon they got to know each other a little. At first, Mr. Polar bear was too fussy for Melissa but when she heard his story she somehow soften to him. And who hasn't fancied a firefighter anyway? Melissa also didn't want to tell her story but what's the harm of telling your story to someone you wouldn't see again?
It was a beautiful story of moving on and letting yourself heal after an awful relationship. I actually wanted to read more but unfortunately it was only a short story. And his name was Brooks, by the way.
Rebound by Georgina Penny
"Come by the station tomorrow and I'll give you the details
"Why not now?
"Because I like to see you pissed off."
As if losing her job wasn't quite enough, Samantha Plimpton had to be dumped by her boyfriend, ex, of two years so he could have a fling with a new girl. To make things worse, Samantha was also back living, temporarily, with her OCD mother who liked keeping the house as it used to be, like Samantha was still in highschool, until she can find a new job and so she can pay for a new place to live in. Enter Police Officer Craig Lawson, Samantha's nemesis, who unexpectedly offered his house in exchange of Samantha keeping the lawn green and the garden watered. Having no intention of staying another day inside her mom's house, Samantha grabbed the offer and found herself 'okay' with Craig's company.
I've read a lot of stories like this one with the girl and the guy always bickering but turned out they actually liked each other. Because sometimes it was easier to tease someone than actually admitting that you like them. (Sounds like YA, I know!) And Samantha was just too busy hating Craig that she wasn't able to get the hints Craig was giving.
Just Friends by Katie Spain
"I'm not sure why but that day he chose me as his 'girl' and over schnitzel, salad and a love of vino we vowed to tackle life on our new turf together. We skipped straight to best-mate status without a second thought."
Nathan was the man of her dreams. Too bad she wasn't the man of Nathan's dreams. They agreed that by thirty if they weren't still married then they would marry each other then have a baby (or babies). Everyone around them can tell that they loved each other more than best friends loved each other but what can she do when Nathan liked men more than he liked her?
This story wasn't what I expected it to be but it was lovely and heartbreaking at the same time. Nathan was adorable and he was probably my favorite character out of all the stories. It's just that it was too sad that she can't have Nathan all to herself because Nathan wanted to marry the man of his dreams, one day, even if he was already married to her. And I loved that Teenage Dream by Katy Perry part!
Deluge by Sandy Vaile
"Autumn would no longer be a sign of loss. Now it was a new beginning."
Carly Shaw had no choice but to leave Cockatoo Flat to find a high paying job so she could pay the debts her father left them. When she left she didn't only leave her mother behind but she also had to end things with the love of her life, Elliot Fraser, who took the break up the hard way. Now that she was back to look after her sick mother, Elliot still seemed mad at her for leaving but when her mother, Jean, decided to play matchmaker, Carly had to at least indulge her mother for wanting to see her daughter get married.
I always love stories about second chances because everyone deserves a second chance, right? This last story by Sandy Vaile was about Samantha giving up her chance at love for the sake of saving her family from debts. Because sometimes life decided we only get to choose one between love and family and most of the time we choose family over love which is unfair but life is a bitch like that. But hey, that's the reason why we have second chances right? And third and fourth and who's to say we don't get a fifth chance?
Overall, I enjoyed this collection of short stories! My favorite was Run To You but each was lovely in its own way. Hope you enjoy it too! :)
"She is excited, like a little kid and the bits aren't just adding up. Dread is building like a rock in my gut. Tanya is naked in our bedroom and my girlfriend isn't acting like she's about to dump me."
I think Leaving Princess Kate is the story some of us might have already experienced before. The story of having a beautiful relationship with someone but one text or email or misunderstanding ruined everything. This first story in this chick-lit anthology by 6 of Australias's chick-lit authors tells us that sometimes we just need to trust the one we love and though we might doubt them at times, we must not lose faith in the love we have for them.
Mark knew the moment he laid eyes on Kate that if he worked hard, then Kate would be a part of his life. He was out in a bar one night with his workmates when he saw Kate, all beautiful and playful with her friends. He stole glances at her and he knew Kate was doing the same. From then on, Mark made sure that he always catch Kate at the bar everytime. Soon enough, with a bit of courage and maybe a couple of beers, Mark decided to be a man and walked towards Kate and kissed her. It was when he knew that Kate was feeling the same. After some time, they saw a beautiful townhouse, one Kate really loved, and realized it was where they wanted to build a life together. For a year everything was fine and easy and hot until Mark saw a text message in Kate's phone. He knew he wasn't supposed to see it but unfortunately he did. Since then he started to suspect Kate which eventually led to his foul moods.
I know it's just normal for a couple to fight once in a while, it's healthy they say, and you can't really control your partner but I think all you could do, if you really love him/her, is to trust him/her. Because loving someone means trusting them. I knew Mark wanted to believe that Kate was still that girl who loved him but after that incident of reading her messages, he knew she had broken his trust. It was hard for him, it took everything in him but if only he trusted Kate enough, if only he trusted Kate to still be that girl he fell in love with and if only he waited.
Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso
Finally, Misty cleared her throat. "You know, Katy Perry's doing her first tour date in Adelaide next month. I could ask to cover it and put in a request for you." She shrugged, her mouth twisting. "We could take it from there. See what happens."
On her last day of covering the story of the band The Stolen, on their show in Adelaide, Misty Welbourne could only wish for time to drag on for so long. She wasn't so excited when she was first assigned with this assignment but as she spent the last eight days with Jesse Ramage, freelance photographer, she suddenly wished for an extra time with him. Jesse, as a freelancer, didn't have much of a choice but to take this assignment. He wasn't quite thrilled about following some rock band on their show but with Misty along with him, he realized that it wasn't bad at all.
A cute, spontaneous, blooming romance from Carla Caruso about a writer and a photographer who found themselves enjoying each other's company and would rather get to know each other better than actually covering the band they were supposed to cover. A fast and charming read of a blooming relationship that will surely make you smile.
Run To You by Laura Greaves
"This marathon is supposed to be my catarthis, my phoenix-rising-from-the-ashes moment. It's not supposed to be a first date."
When Melissa Burnley decided to run for the New York Marathon, it was to prove her ex that she wasn't indecisive, that she can commit to something and see it until the end. And so it was a cold November and she was running (away from her ex) along with 50,000 other participants including Mr. Polar Bear who happened to decide he wanted to become her running partner. What a not so good beginning turned into a heartwarming talk and run between Melissa and a man she named Mr. Polar Bear.
Run to You was probably my favorite among the six stories. Melissa and Mr.Polar Bear started off as strangers but somehow along the marathon they got to know each other a little. At first, Mr. Polar bear was too fussy for Melissa but when she heard his story she somehow soften to him. And who hasn't fancied a firefighter anyway? Melissa also didn't want to tell her story but what's the harm of telling your story to someone you wouldn't see again?
It was a beautiful story of moving on and letting yourself heal after an awful relationship. I actually wanted to read more but unfortunately it was only a short story. And his name was Brooks, by the way.
Rebound by Georgina Penny
"Come by the station tomorrow and I'll give you the details
"Why not now?
"Because I like to see you pissed off."
As if losing her job wasn't quite enough, Samantha Plimpton had to be dumped by her boyfriend, ex, of two years so he could have a fling with a new girl. To make things worse, Samantha was also back living, temporarily, with her OCD mother who liked keeping the house as it used to be, like Samantha was still in highschool, until she can find a new job and so she can pay for a new place to live in. Enter Police Officer Craig Lawson, Samantha's nemesis, who unexpectedly offered his house in exchange of Samantha keeping the lawn green and the garden watered. Having no intention of staying another day inside her mom's house, Samantha grabbed the offer and found herself 'okay' with Craig's company.
I've read a lot of stories like this one with the girl and the guy always bickering but turned out they actually liked each other. Because sometimes it was easier to tease someone than actually admitting that you like them. (Sounds like YA, I know!) And Samantha was just too busy hating Craig that she wasn't able to get the hints Craig was giving.
Just Friends by Katie Spain
"I'm not sure why but that day he chose me as his 'girl' and over schnitzel, salad and a love of vino we vowed to tackle life on our new turf together. We skipped straight to best-mate status without a second thought."
Nathan was the man of her dreams. Too bad she wasn't the man of Nathan's dreams. They agreed that by thirty if they weren't still married then they would marry each other then have a baby (or babies). Everyone around them can tell that they loved each other more than best friends loved each other but what can she do when Nathan liked men more than he liked her?
This story wasn't what I expected it to be but it was lovely and heartbreaking at the same time. Nathan was adorable and he was probably my favorite character out of all the stories. It's just that it was too sad that she can't have Nathan all to herself because Nathan wanted to marry the man of his dreams, one day, even if he was already married to her. And I loved that Teenage Dream by Katy Perry part!
Deluge by Sandy Vaile
"Autumn would no longer be a sign of loss. Now it was a new beginning."
Carly Shaw had no choice but to leave Cockatoo Flat to find a high paying job so she could pay the debts her father left them. When she left she didn't only leave her mother behind but she also had to end things with the love of her life, Elliot Fraser, who took the break up the hard way. Now that she was back to look after her sick mother, Elliot still seemed mad at her for leaving but when her mother, Jean, decided to play matchmaker, Carly had to at least indulge her mother for wanting to see her daughter get married.
I always love stories about second chances because everyone deserves a second chance, right? This last story by Sandy Vaile was about Samantha giving up her chance at love for the sake of saving her family from debts. Because sometimes life decided we only get to choose one between love and family and most of the time we choose family over love which is unfair but life is a bitch like that. But hey, that's the reason why we have second chances right? And third and fourth and who's to say we don't get a fifth chance?
Overall, I enjoyed this collection of short stories! My favorite was Run To You but each was lovely in its own way. Hope you enjoy it too! :)
December 31, 2017
This anthology is made up of 6 stories:
1) Leaving Princess Kate by Samantha Bond
Not my favorite, not due to the writing but due to the storyline itself. Guy starts dating a beautiful woman, doesn't think he's worthy, then he thinks she's cheating on him, so he screws it up and his happy ending turns into a nightmare of his own making. Although I liked that it was told from a guys point of view, his lack of self-esteem and confidence leads to a sad and bitter ending.
2) Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso
Misty, a reporter, and Jesse, the photographer assigned to her story, are on a weeks assignment. Finding themselves in each others company for the maturity of the assignment, they find themselves attracted to each other and falling in love. The scene between Misty and Jesse in the bar where they are playing a fun, clean version of 'tell me about yourself' game of where for every truth Misty told, Jesse had to tell one as well, had me laughing out loud and enjoying the flirty banter between the two characters.
3) Run to You by Laura Greaves
My favorite of the six. A young woman runs a marathon and does a little flirting with a fellow runner (which is amazing because when I run all I can manager to say is "let me die"). The banter between the two runners is funny and witty. Lovely romantic story.
4) Rebound by Georgina Penny
First, I had to look up what a 'pneumatic penis' was. So Ms. Penny gets major kudos for adding to my vocabulary! The very first awkward sex scene was painful to read (because Dylan had no clue just how bad he is at sex) but had me laughing out loud. Girl, we have been there!! Samantha is a little bit of a spineless ninny so I was glad to see her new guy friend push her to stand up for herself.
5) Just Friends by Katie Spain
You had me at the first line - "It took my husband exactly 45 minutes to cheat on me." But it's not what we think it means.
6) Deluge by Sandy Vaile
This a hard to read for me on a personal level. A story of a mother with cancer and her daughter who comes home to take care of her. Having done the same for my mother 2 years ago and watching my mother lose her battle with cancer is something one never gets over. On the major kudos side, the love story between Elliot and Carly was rather heartwarming.
1) Leaving Princess Kate by Samantha Bond
Not my favorite, not due to the writing but due to the storyline itself. Guy starts dating a beautiful woman, doesn't think he's worthy, then he thinks she's cheating on him, so he screws it up and his happy ending turns into a nightmare of his own making. Although I liked that it was told from a guys point of view, his lack of self-esteem and confidence leads to a sad and bitter ending.
2) Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso
Misty, a reporter, and Jesse, the photographer assigned to her story, are on a weeks assignment. Finding themselves in each others company for the maturity of the assignment, they find themselves attracted to each other and falling in love. The scene between Misty and Jesse in the bar where they are playing a fun, clean version of 'tell me about yourself' game of where for every truth Misty told, Jesse had to tell one as well, had me laughing out loud and enjoying the flirty banter between the two characters.
3) Run to You by Laura Greaves
My favorite of the six. A young woman runs a marathon and does a little flirting with a fellow runner (which is amazing because when I run all I can manager to say is "let me die"). The banter between the two runners is funny and witty. Lovely romantic story.
4) Rebound by Georgina Penny
First, I had to look up what a 'pneumatic penis' was. So Ms. Penny gets major kudos for adding to my vocabulary! The very first awkward sex scene was painful to read (because Dylan had no clue just how bad he is at sex) but had me laughing out loud. Girl, we have been there!! Samantha is a little bit of a spineless ninny so I was glad to see her new guy friend push her to stand up for herself.
5) Just Friends by Katie Spain
You had me at the first line - "It took my husband exactly 45 minutes to cheat on me." But it's not what we think it means.
6) Deluge by Sandy Vaile
This a hard to read for me on a personal level. A story of a mother with cancer and her daughter who comes home to take care of her. Having done the same for my mother 2 years ago and watching my mother lose her battle with cancer is something one never gets over. On the major kudos side, the love story between Elliot and Carly was rather heartwarming.
August 17, 2018
It was a short take on different romance lit authors, I can use it for a reading challenge, and it was free, so win-win I guess. The stories weren't exactly fleshed out much, some had a bit of fan-fic character to them.
Deluge by Sandy Vaile
In theory, I like the idea, but this should have been so much longer. Like maybe full novel lenght? With a bit of Sarah Addison Allen magic realism in it at best? Because the way it is right now, I have so many questions. What happened to Carly's mum? What's the story with love interest's daughter? Was that tree really necessary? I totally get it, I run out of steam quite quickly too, but this story could really go somewhere.
Leaving Princess Kate by Samantha Bond
Ugh, I hate breakups, especially if people are acting stupid (I know acting stupid is the reason for breakups, mostly, but still). I hate bloody stupid people. So sorry, not my narration.
Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso
This was going too fast in the end, but up until then really enjoyable to read. Not too deep, but sometimes that's just how a short story should be.
Run to You by Laura Greaves
Again nice little meet-cute, good ending, too. But how is she picking up all the clothes she dropped along the way? I no-one stealing those?
Rebound by Georgina Penney
A bit strange. Why would she think he hates her, what's the backstory, what happened back in 1998, what's with the money, the job, the friendship, just what? This one needs serious work.
Just Friends by Katie Spain
I love this one. Not sure about him coaxing her to have his baby, though. Other than that, adorable.
Deluge by Sandy Vaile
In theory, I like the idea, but this should have been so much longer. Like maybe full novel lenght? With a bit of Sarah Addison Allen magic realism in it at best? Because the way it is right now, I have so many questions. What happened to Carly's mum? What's the story with love interest's daughter? Was that tree really necessary? I totally get it, I run out of steam quite quickly too, but this story could really go somewhere.
Leaving Princess Kate by Samantha Bond
Ugh, I hate breakups, especially if people are acting stupid (I know acting stupid is the reason for breakups, mostly, but still). I hate bloody stupid people. So sorry, not my narration.
Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso
This was going too fast in the end, but up until then really enjoyable to read. Not too deep, but sometimes that's just how a short story should be.
Run to You by Laura Greaves
Again nice little meet-cute, good ending, too. But how is she picking up all the clothes she dropped along the way? I no-one stealing those?
Rebound by Georgina Penney
A bit strange. Why would she think he hates her, what's the backstory, what happened back in 1998, what's with the money, the job, the friendship, just what? This one needs serious work.
Just Friends by Katie Spain
I love this one. Not sure about him coaxing her to have his baby, though. Other than that, adorable.
September 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
Autumn Leaves was such a fun and cozy collection of stories to dive into. I loved that it brought together six different voices in Australia chick lit, each offering their own spin on love, heartbreak, and second chances. The seasonal theme tied everything together nicely—it really gave me that crisp, autumn feeling where change feels both scary and exciting.
Some stories stood out more than others for me, but overall the mix was entertaining. I especially enjoyed the humor that was woven into even the heavier moments—it kept the collection from feeling too heavy. “Deluge” and “Rebound” had a nice mix of angst and charm, while “Stolen Kisses” and “Run to You” gave me that swoony, romantic vibe I was hoping for.
My only small critique is that a couple of the stories felt a bit rushed—I wanted just a little more depth before moving on to the next one. Still, that’s the nature of short story collections, and the variety definitely kept me hooked.
If you’re looking for something lighthearted yet heartfelt, with just enough drama and romance to keep the pages turning, Autumn Leaves is a great pick for your fall reading list.
Autumn Leaves was such a fun and cozy collection of stories to dive into. I loved that it brought together six different voices in Australia chick lit, each offering their own spin on love, heartbreak, and second chances. The seasonal theme tied everything together nicely—it really gave me that crisp, autumn feeling where change feels both scary and exciting.
Some stories stood out more than others for me, but overall the mix was entertaining. I especially enjoyed the humor that was woven into even the heavier moments—it kept the collection from feeling too heavy. “Deluge” and “Rebound” had a nice mix of angst and charm, while “Stolen Kisses” and “Run to You” gave me that swoony, romantic vibe I was hoping for.
My only small critique is that a couple of the stories felt a bit rushed—I wanted just a little more depth before moving on to the next one. Still, that’s the nature of short story collections, and the variety definitely kept me hooked.
If you’re looking for something lighthearted yet heartfelt, with just enough drama and romance to keep the pages turning, Autumn Leaves is a great pick for your fall reading list.
April 1, 2023
2.5 Stars Rounded up!
These stories were super short, and felt like glimpses of a full book.
Leaving Princess Kate by Samantha Bond:
This was a horrible short story with an unhappy ending and no autumn vibes! 1 Star
Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso:
I enjoyed both character POV's in this story and the autumn vibes. 3 Stars
Run to You by Laura Greaves:
This was my favorite story in this collection. It was super sweet and cute, with great autumn vibes! 4 Stars.
Rebound by Georgina Penney:
This story had an awful beginning, with not enough romance for the rest of the story. 1.5 Stars
Just Friends by Katie Spain:
I half enjoyed this story, but the not so happy ending ruined it for me. 1 Star
Deluge by Sandy Vaile:
I really liked the writing style to this story, but not so much the second chance romance. 3.5 Stars
These stories were super short, and felt like glimpses of a full book.
Leaving Princess Kate by Samantha Bond:
This was a horrible short story with an unhappy ending and no autumn vibes! 1 Star
Stolen Kisses by Carla Caruso:
I enjoyed both character POV's in this story and the autumn vibes. 3 Stars
Run to You by Laura Greaves:
This was my favorite story in this collection. It was super sweet and cute, with great autumn vibes! 4 Stars.
Rebound by Georgina Penney:
This story had an awful beginning, with not enough romance for the rest of the story. 1.5 Stars
Just Friends by Katie Spain:
I half enjoyed this story, but the not so happy ending ruined it for me. 1 Star
Deluge by Sandy Vaile:
I really liked the writing style to this story, but not so much the second chance romance. 3.5 Stars
October 17, 2020
I picked this book, because it was free on kindle and I needed autumn cover for my reading book challenge.
While I read first story, I was really confused, I barely understood thr flow of the story, but then with every other writter the book became better.
I really loved the story "Run to you" by Laura Greaves.
It's short and simple, suitable for cold autumn mornings, when you are getting cosy with hot beverages.
While I read first story, I was really confused, I barely understood thr flow of the story, but then with every other writter the book became better.
I really loved the story "Run to you" by Laura Greaves.
It's short and simple, suitable for cold autumn mornings, when you are getting cosy with hot beverages.
March 8, 2022
Not usually one to read short stories, I really enjoyed this compilation. Each story was well written and took you on a journey. Others have commented that the stories were too short and ended just as you wanted more, and yes, I to felt this way, but isn't that the whole point of a short story?
It has introduced me to new authors who I would have probably never found, all of whom have written full length novels. If they are as well written as the short stories in Autumn Leaves then they will be worth a read.
It has introduced me to new authors who I would have probably never found, all of whom have written full length novels. If they are as well written as the short stories in Autumn Leaves then they will be worth a read.
September 26, 2019
I finished reading this anthology last night. This short story collection has 6 Chick Lit stories by Australian authors. The stories were fun to read and I liked them when I read them but I wouldn’t read them again. I had this on my Kindle since September 28, 2018 so it hasn’t been a year since I owned this but I’m glad I finally got around to reading it.
November 11, 2018
Surprisingly good writing for the genre of stories. Nice little plots and interesting characters. Only complaint is that this could’ve used some major editing, especially the last story (changes point of view once and the grammar is off several times).
October 31, 2019
Great short story collection
A group of short stories about love, New beginnings, unexpected life changes, and endings that will make you believe that good and bad usually balance out somehow.
A group of short stories about love, New beginnings, unexpected life changes, and endings that will make you believe that good and bad usually balance out somehow.
Read
April 8, 2021Great read
Lovely stories each different but All good in their own way.
I really enjoyed them. I can definitely recommend them
Lovely stories each different but All good in their own way.
I really enjoyed them. I can definitely recommend them
October 7, 2019
Leaving Princess Kate - 2 sterren
Stolen Kisses - 4 sterren
Run to You - 4 sterren
Rebound - 4 sterren
Just Friends - 4 sterren
Deluge - 4 sterren
Stolen Kisses - 4 sterren
Run to You - 4 sterren
Rebound - 4 sterren
Just Friends - 4 sterren
Deluge - 4 sterren
July 2, 2020
3.5 stars
The first story almost cut me off but the rest are enjoyable. Very nice for a light reading or book between books.
The first story almost cut me off but the rest are enjoyable. Very nice for a light reading or book between books.
September 3, 2020
Didn't finish it not my taste in a book
December 23, 2021
I don't think I'm a fan of one shots. They're too quick and you hardly get a chance to connect with the characters before their stories are over and resolved. Short and to the point I guess.
July 2, 2023
A comforting collection of sympathetic, easy to read stories
November 18, 2023
These were some cute quick stories. Some of them felt like story starters and I wanted to read more about that story. The others were okay.
June 30, 2024
This book is an anthology of short stories that takes place during the lovely season of autumn. Six Australian writers tell stories about friendship, love and to spect the unexpected. It’s just a perfect read for a weekend surrounded by ‘autumn leaves’
I will definitely check the authors for future reads.
I will definitely check the authors for future reads.
May 23, 2016
Autumn Leaves is an anthology full of chick-lit short stories by wonderful Australian authors. After reading Hot Stuff: Surfing Love, I checked out all the authors on iBooks to see what was available for each author and this anthology was available for free. I just couldn’t resist. I love these anthologies that have a reoccurring theme, and for this set, all stories took place in autumn. Autumn also happens to be my favourite season and sadly I do not get to experience it while living in Darwin, so this was the perfect collection to take me back to beautiful autumn days.
“She is excited, like a little kid and the bits just aren’t adding up. Dread is building like a rock in my gut. Tanya is naked in our bedroom and my girlfriend isn’t acting like she’s about to dump me.”
Mark thinks Kate is cheating and that she is planning on leaving him so Mark plans to break her heart first. Leaving Princess Kate was the perfect story to open with! So different to read a chick-lit story told from a male’s perspective. I don’t think I have read chick-lit told from just the male point of view before. This story could have gone further and it would have been so good to read! The ending was such a cliffhanger! All I could think was WOW!
“But autumn wasn’t over just yet, and for the moment, that warmed her.”
Misty and Jesse are both assigned to follow a rock band while on tour, but they would much rather get to know each other a bit better. Stolen Kisses was really special to me as it reminded me very much of the first night that Ross and I had first hung out together. It was incredibly similar in some ways. I can see how Carla Caruso is one of Renee’s favourite authors! She has a way of writing a story that you can see the story going further but it is also perfect if it ends where it does.
“I’m planning to run pretty fast though, so I’ll warm up quick. I had lots of practice doing my training at home in the bush, running away from snakes and drop bears and stuff.”
Melissa is an Australian who has been living in New York for the last five years. After a break up where she is deemed indecisive, she decides to prove him wrong and enter the New York Marathon. Laura Greaves, I cannot wait to read more of your work. This great story was filled with Aussie humor and the characters were witty and full of humour. Run to You was just so cute.
“An amoeba ancestor of Samantha’s must have pissed off an amoeba ancestor of Craig’s in the primordial ooze and the vendetta had started.”
After a “friend” “borrowed” her life savings and got her fired, Samantha is forced to move back home to a neurotic mother. Rebound is all about how everything can go oh so wrong and then oh so right. I just wanted to hug Samantha but I am so glad that it worked out for her in the end.
“I turn my back on my faux husband and lock eyes with a cute guitarist I noticed on the way in.”
Just Friends did not go the way that I had expected at all. Nathan makes a bargain that if they are both single at 30 they should join together in matrimony and have a baby. I was screaming at her the whole entire time that he was gay. I thought her a blind bimbo. Just goes to show that you really shouldn’t jump to conclusions.
“No need to pant after a man who’d made it clear he wouldn’t forgive me for breaking his heart – ever.”
Deluge is the story of Carly returning home after her mother is diagnosed with cancer. The return means seeing the love of her life and being reminded of what she had to give up for her family. This was the quickest story of the lot. It was an okay story, I didn’t love it and I didn’t hate it.
Cai xx
TITLE: Autumn Leaves: A Chick-Lit Anthology
AUTHOR: Samantha Bond, Carla Caruso, Laura Greaves, Georgina Penny, Katie Spain and Sandy Vaile
GENRE: Chick-Lit, Short Stories, Romance
RATING: 4/5
PLATFORM: iBooks
GOODREADS CHALLENGE: 175/150
“She is excited, like a little kid and the bits just aren’t adding up. Dread is building like a rock in my gut. Tanya is naked in our bedroom and my girlfriend isn’t acting like she’s about to dump me.”
Mark thinks Kate is cheating and that she is planning on leaving him so Mark plans to break her heart first. Leaving Princess Kate was the perfect story to open with! So different to read a chick-lit story told from a male’s perspective. I don’t think I have read chick-lit told from just the male point of view before. This story could have gone further and it would have been so good to read! The ending was such a cliffhanger! All I could think was WOW!
“But autumn wasn’t over just yet, and for the moment, that warmed her.”
Misty and Jesse are both assigned to follow a rock band while on tour, but they would much rather get to know each other a bit better. Stolen Kisses was really special to me as it reminded me very much of the first night that Ross and I had first hung out together. It was incredibly similar in some ways. I can see how Carla Caruso is one of Renee’s favourite authors! She has a way of writing a story that you can see the story going further but it is also perfect if it ends where it does.
“I’m planning to run pretty fast though, so I’ll warm up quick. I had lots of practice doing my training at home in the bush, running away from snakes and drop bears and stuff.”
Melissa is an Australian who has been living in New York for the last five years. After a break up where she is deemed indecisive, she decides to prove him wrong and enter the New York Marathon. Laura Greaves, I cannot wait to read more of your work. This great story was filled with Aussie humor and the characters were witty and full of humour. Run to You was just so cute.
“An amoeba ancestor of Samantha’s must have pissed off an amoeba ancestor of Craig’s in the primordial ooze and the vendetta had started.”
After a “friend” “borrowed” her life savings and got her fired, Samantha is forced to move back home to a neurotic mother. Rebound is all about how everything can go oh so wrong and then oh so right. I just wanted to hug Samantha but I am so glad that it worked out for her in the end.
“I turn my back on my faux husband and lock eyes with a cute guitarist I noticed on the way in.”
Just Friends did not go the way that I had expected at all. Nathan makes a bargain that if they are both single at 30 they should join together in matrimony and have a baby. I was screaming at her the whole entire time that he was gay. I thought her a blind bimbo. Just goes to show that you really shouldn’t jump to conclusions.
“No need to pant after a man who’d made it clear he wouldn’t forgive me for breaking his heart – ever.”
Deluge is the story of Carly returning home after her mother is diagnosed with cancer. The return means seeing the love of her life and being reminded of what she had to give up for her family. This was the quickest story of the lot. It was an okay story, I didn’t love it and I didn’t hate it.
Cai xx
TITLE: Autumn Leaves: A Chick-Lit Anthology
AUTHOR: Samantha Bond, Carla Caruso, Laura Greaves, Georgina Penny, Katie Spain and Sandy Vaile
GENRE: Chick-Lit, Short Stories, Romance
RATING: 4/5
PLATFORM: iBooks
GOODREADS CHALLENGE: 175/150
May 17, 2025
Please see individual stories for review.
December 25, 2019
Lighthearted romances. I liked some more than others.
November 1, 2016
The Autumn Leaves: Chick Lit Anthology, written by six different female Aussie authors, is made up of six super charming romantic short stories. I loved how each story was about a very different, unique kind of relationship and/or stage of romance. If I had to choose a favorite, it would probably by "Leaving Princess Kate" by Samantha Bond, just because it was the "spiciest" and most entertaining with a major oh snap moment at the end. Every single story had its own special quality that I really enjoyed about it though.
☆☆☆☆
It didn't feel like much of a fall read, but I liked it just the same!
☆☆☆☆
It didn't feel like much of a fall read, but I liked it just the same!
October 11, 2015
A fabulous collection of romantic short stories written by Australian authors. I read this in spring instead of autumn, but it's a great read at any time of year. I read this while on holiday in Adelaide and was excited to see that many of the stories were set there (and even more excited to actually meet Carla Caruso while I was on holiday!)
June 13, 2015
This was actually a cute bunch of little short stories. I was very impressed with some of the writing throughout the stories. 3-3.5 stars overall!
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