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Beyond the Hedge Maze: The Transatlantic Quartet: Book One
“
The longer they were in the maze, the longer they could stay in their own world, the one they had created in between the hedges.”
Oliver Catesby is a painter who doesn’t paint. Instead, in the years since his grandfather’s passing, he’s used every ounce of his money and energy to ensure that his beloved family estate doesn’t fall into ruin. Running out of options, he turns to Emerson Enterprises for help.
What he doesn’t know is that asking for help would lead him down a path to reuniting with the boy he fell in love with at fifteen.
Jesse Alvarez regrets the day he made a deal to work at the family company. Stuck in a passionless job appraising trinkets for the fallen English aristocracy, he feels lost until he’s called into a meeting and sees Chapman House illuminated on the conference room screen.
Emboldened by memories of their time together within a centuries-old hedge maze, Jesse will do anything to help Oliver. If that includes making him fall in love with Jesse all over again, well, that’s just a bonus.
Beyond the Hedge Maze is a queer, open door, second chance romance, that explores how life and love can be altered by grief. Filled with found family, beautiful scenery, watchful muses, and the memory of an overzealous ancestor, Beyond the Hedge Maze will leave you laughing, crying, and rooting for two childhood sweethearts to find their happiness together.
Beyond the Hedge Maze is book one in an interconnected series. It can be read by itself or as part of the series.
Oliver Catesby is a painter who doesn’t paint. Instead, in the years since his grandfather’s passing, he’s used every ounce of his money and energy to ensure that his beloved family estate doesn’t fall into ruin. Running out of options, he turns to Emerson Enterprises for help.
What he doesn’t know is that asking for help would lead him down a path to reuniting with the boy he fell in love with at fifteen.
Jesse Alvarez regrets the day he made a deal to work at the family company. Stuck in a passionless job appraising trinkets for the fallen English aristocracy, he feels lost until he’s called into a meeting and sees Chapman House illuminated on the conference room screen.
Emboldened by memories of their time together within a centuries-old hedge maze, Jesse will do anything to help Oliver. If that includes making him fall in love with Jesse all over again, well, that’s just a bonus.
Beyond the Hedge Maze is a queer, open door, second chance romance, that explores how life and love can be altered by grief. Filled with found family, beautiful scenery, watchful muses, and the memory of an overzealous ancestor, Beyond the Hedge Maze will leave you laughing, crying, and rooting for two childhood sweethearts to find their happiness together.
Beyond the Hedge Maze is book one in an interconnected series. It can be read by itself or as part of the series.
345 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 2, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Last-minute ARC reading is not something I’d recommend, but this time I think I had perfect timing!
I just came back from my trip to England, where I visited several old houses and huge estates, so the setting of this novel was suspiciously well-timed for me.
Oliver inherits his childhood home, but it’s not your regular suburban house. It’s a whole-ass estate! And it’s crumbling down, with no money to keep it running.
Jesse is the appraiser hired to evaluate the estate’s assets and see if they can sell anything before Oliver loses everything.
The problem is that Oliver and Jesse were teenage sweethearts who haven’t seen each other in ten years.
And yes, I fell in love with these two.
I connected more with Oliver, though. His grief, the way he processes everything, and how much this estate means to him made me really emotional. He was trying to hold his life together, realizing he doesn’t have to do it all on his own ♥️ sweet baby
Jesse’s yearning and devotion deserve an award!
The story is told across different timelines: ten years ago, two years ago, and the present day. I wasn’t a huge fan of that structure, but we got to see Jesse and Oliver at different points in their lives, which was kind of important for the story.
Ana I say kind of because their teenage love story was adorable, but I didn’t lock in until around the 40% mark, when I felt like things started moving forward.
I really liked how well-rounded these characters were. They had depth, their own flaws, hopes, and baggage, and they felt like real people.
And the romance made me swoon at times, with enough heat to make me fan myself the rest of the time 🔥
I’m definitely curious to see where the rest of the Transatlantic Quartet goes.
**Thank you Morgan Wolff for trusting me with an early copy. All opinions are my own.
—————————
💖 Pre-read:
Silly me thinking I had more time to read this ARC because it didn’t publish until 10/02 😂
That’s in 4 days!!
I just came back from my trip to England, where I visited several old houses and huge estates, so the setting of this novel was suspiciously well-timed for me.
Oliver inherits his childhood home, but it’s not your regular suburban house. It’s a whole-ass estate! And it’s crumbling down, with no money to keep it running.
Jesse is the appraiser hired to evaluate the estate’s assets and see if they can sell anything before Oliver loses everything.
The problem is that Oliver and Jesse were teenage sweethearts who haven’t seen each other in ten years.
And yes, I fell in love with these two.
I connected more with Oliver, though. His grief, the way he processes everything, and how much this estate means to him made me really emotional. He was trying to hold his life together, realizing he doesn’t have to do it all on his own ♥️ sweet baby
Jesse’s yearning and devotion deserve an award!
The story is told across different timelines: ten years ago, two years ago, and the present day. I wasn’t a huge fan of that structure, but we got to see Jesse and Oliver at different points in their lives, which was kind of important for the story.
Ana I say kind of because their teenage love story was adorable, but I didn’t lock in until around the 40% mark, when I felt like things started moving forward.
I really liked how well-rounded these characters were. They had depth, their own flaws, hopes, and baggage, and they felt like real people.
And the romance made me swoon at times, with enough heat to make me fan myself the rest of the time 🔥
I’m definitely curious to see where the rest of the Transatlantic Quartet goes.
**Thank you Morgan Wolff for trusting me with an early copy. All opinions are my own.
—————————
💖 Pre-read:
Silly me thinking I had more time to read this ARC because it didn’t publish until 10/02 😂
That’s in 4 days!!
September 8, 2026
Beyond the Hedge Maze by Morgan Wolff is the story of Oliver: a shy, artistic boy who lived on a grand old estate with his grandfather, his parents having more important social things to do than raise their child. Oliver loved to draw against a wall of hydrangeas at a dead end within the historic hedge maze on the property.
At age 15, a boy named Jesse appeared with his father to do an appraisal at the estate. Jesse was energetic and outgoing and paid attention to Oliver, something most other boys didn’t do… especially since he had been outed at school.
Jesse and Oliver hit it off… and spent that summer falling in love in the hedge maze.
While their time was always going to be short, one day Jesse disappeared without a goodbye…
Eight years later, the two catch sight of each other by chance, but while Jesse attempts to reconnect, Oliver is too shaken to know how to speak to Jesse after having lost contact so long ago. Another two years pass before fate puts them together one more time… but neither has stopped thinking of the other… since they were kids so long ago.
Can Jesse figure out how to reconnect with Oliver, the boy with the cornflower blue eyes he has not been able to forget since he was fifteen? And can Oliver allow himself to believe that maybe he had actually meant something to Jesse? Could there be something more for them beyond that hedge maze?
This is the debut novel by Morgan Wolff and it had me captivated. The setting for many of the younger scenes was the hedge maze: the wall of hydrangeas with a stone bench where the boys spent so much time together, and the fountain and statues of the muses at its centre that inspired both boys in different ways.
Using three timelines and dual point of view, the author crafts a tale of love, unexpected, then lost, and finally gently reconstructed. Beyond the wonderful main characters, with whom I fell in love, the secondary cast of characters gave the book a really rounded out feeling of a universe fully created. Both Jesse and Oliver have close and devoted friend groups who are part of the story throughout the college and adult years. Both of their imperfect families also play important roles in the narrative. this book weaves all of these characters right into the main story effortlessly… not a word feels wasted. And there is just enough spice toward the end that the happily ever after feels complete.
Ending my read of this book has me a little emotional, because I hate to let this world go. This is supposed to be book one of a series, so I’m excited to see what will come next, and I have a few ideas of secondary characters who could have a great arc.
At age 15, a boy named Jesse appeared with his father to do an appraisal at the estate. Jesse was energetic and outgoing and paid attention to Oliver, something most other boys didn’t do… especially since he had been outed at school.
Jesse and Oliver hit it off… and spent that summer falling in love in the hedge maze.
While their time was always going to be short, one day Jesse disappeared without a goodbye…
Eight years later, the two catch sight of each other by chance, but while Jesse attempts to reconnect, Oliver is too shaken to know how to speak to Jesse after having lost contact so long ago. Another two years pass before fate puts them together one more time… but neither has stopped thinking of the other… since they were kids so long ago.
Can Jesse figure out how to reconnect with Oliver, the boy with the cornflower blue eyes he has not been able to forget since he was fifteen? And can Oliver allow himself to believe that maybe he had actually meant something to Jesse? Could there be something more for them beyond that hedge maze?
This is the debut novel by Morgan Wolff and it had me captivated. The setting for many of the younger scenes was the hedge maze: the wall of hydrangeas with a stone bench where the boys spent so much time together, and the fountain and statues of the muses at its centre that inspired both boys in different ways.
Using three timelines and dual point of view, the author crafts a tale of love, unexpected, then lost, and finally gently reconstructed. Beyond the wonderful main characters, with whom I fell in love, the secondary cast of characters gave the book a really rounded out feeling of a universe fully created. Both Jesse and Oliver have close and devoted friend groups who are part of the story throughout the college and adult years. Both of their imperfect families also play important roles in the narrative. this book weaves all of these characters right into the main story effortlessly… not a word feels wasted. And there is just enough spice toward the end that the happily ever after feels complete.
Ending my read of this book has me a little emotional, because I hate to let this world go. This is supposed to be book one of a series, so I’m excited to see what will come next, and I have a few ideas of secondary characters who could have a great arc.
Did Not Finish
September 26, 2026DNF’d
October 2, 2026
4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC of Beyond the Hedge Maze by Morgan Wolff in exchange for an honest review.
Beyond the Hedge Maze by Morgan Wolff is a queer, open-door second-chance romance releasing as Book 1 of The Transatlantic Quartet. The story follows Oliver Catesby, an artist pouring every ounce of his energy and money into saving his beloved family estate (Chapman House) from ruin following his grandfather's passing. Desperate, he turns to Emerson Enterprises—only to find himself face-to-face with Jesse Alvarez, the boy he fell in love with a decade ago when they were fifteen. As Jesse seizes the chance to help Oliver save his home, old sparks reignite into a journey of healing, grief, and reconnecting with a first love.
The dynamic between Oliver and Jesse is utterly enchanting. Jesse’s endless patience and fierce, supportive love for Oliver match Oliver’s nervous, devoted heart. Beyond the romance, the book explores the deep impacts of grief and family legacy. Saving Chapman House from Oliver's greedy parents provides a high-stakes backdrop, while a rich web of found family members (Rose, Cillian, Isaac, Rachel, Michelle, Tanvi, Sean, and more) adds wonderful warmth to the story.
Wolff’s pacing is thoughtful and tender. Notably, the narrative handles complex family dynamics with realistic grace, choosing not to force instant, neat reconciliations with difficult parents, which grounds the emotional growth in authenticity. While a few loose ends remain, they serve as a brilliant setup for the rest of the quartet. Backed by beautiful English estate scenery, watchful muses, and a satisfying open-door spice level, it is a deeply comforting read.
Beyond the Hedge Maze is a fantastic and heartwarming series kickoff. If you love second-chance childhood sweethearts, estate-restoration tropes, and emotional depth, this is an unmissable read.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC of Beyond the Hedge Maze by Morgan Wolff in exchange for an honest review.
Beyond the Hedge Maze by Morgan Wolff is a queer, open-door second-chance romance releasing as Book 1 of The Transatlantic Quartet. The story follows Oliver Catesby, an artist pouring every ounce of his energy and money into saving his beloved family estate (Chapman House) from ruin following his grandfather's passing. Desperate, he turns to Emerson Enterprises—only to find himself face-to-face with Jesse Alvarez, the boy he fell in love with a decade ago when they were fifteen. As Jesse seizes the chance to help Oliver save his home, old sparks reignite into a journey of healing, grief, and reconnecting with a first love.
The dynamic between Oliver and Jesse is utterly enchanting. Jesse’s endless patience and fierce, supportive love for Oliver match Oliver’s nervous, devoted heart. Beyond the romance, the book explores the deep impacts of grief and family legacy. Saving Chapman House from Oliver's greedy parents provides a high-stakes backdrop, while a rich web of found family members (Rose, Cillian, Isaac, Rachel, Michelle, Tanvi, Sean, and more) adds wonderful warmth to the story.
Wolff’s pacing is thoughtful and tender. Notably, the narrative handles complex family dynamics with realistic grace, choosing not to force instant, neat reconciliations with difficult parents, which grounds the emotional growth in authenticity. While a few loose ends remain, they serve as a brilliant setup for the rest of the quartet. Backed by beautiful English estate scenery, watchful muses, and a satisfying open-door spice level, it is a deeply comforting read.
Beyond the Hedge Maze is a fantastic and heartwarming series kickoff. If you love second-chance childhood sweethearts, estate-restoration tropes, and emotional depth, this is an unmissable read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5/5 stars
Weaving through time - ten years ago, two years ago, and present day - Beyond the Hedge Maze is a gentle, tender exploration of love, grief, heartbreak, and growing up. The structure of the story deepens the emotional payoff, almost like an undulating inhale and exhale, each shift in time bringing more life to their world.
Oliver and Jesse meet as 15-year-old boys during a summer of semi-forced proximity while Jesse's father works at the English estate belonging to Oliver's grandfather. The two boys are immediately drawn to each other - Jesse is enamored by Oliver's creativity and those glasses that always slide down his nose while Oliver is drawn in when Jesse treats him with kindness where others have only bullied and mocked. There's something so specific and tender about that particular teenage ache - being seen for the first time, wanting and being wanted for the first time - that Wolff captures well.
When their summer comes to an abrupt end, their paths diverge for nearly 8 years before a chance encounter thrusts them together again for a fleeting moment. And oh, how I hoped and prayed that their friends wouldn't let that spark slip through their fingers!
Two years following their brief reunion, Oliver is struggling with a significant family burden - overwhelmed and stubbornly clinging to a vision that may be out of reach. When Jesse returns to Oliver's family estate in a professional capacity, they find themselves in close proximity again, and they have to decide if they finally want to explore the young love that was blossoming over that summer so many years ago.
What makes their bond so compelling isn't just proximity or attraction. Jesse gives Oliver the kind of steady, unapologetic care that Oliver never received from his parents nor from the closeted boys at his school who only ever wanted him in the shadows. And Oliver offers Jesse a place where his grief, his feelings can be real, where he can be honest and still be loved.
That reciprocity is what carries the slow-burn reunion; I wasn't blindly rooting for them to get together. I was rooting for them because together they are better versions of themselves and those around them can see it.
Oliver and Jesse are both good men with heavy pasts. Thankfully both are also incredibly well supported by loyal friends who have their back no matter what.
Wolff's skill shines here: Rachel who astutely tracks everything and evokes honesty from Oliver when he's struggling; Sean with his overly affectionate and loud love which Jesse blames on Sean's Scottish roots; Rose, a surrogate mother for Oliver, who fusses and doesn't take any sh*t without ever leaving Oliver to face his troubles alone; and Charlotte, Jesse's workplace nemesis-turned-friend, once he realizes she's been overlooked by their bosses for being a woman. These small details make both friend circles feel lived in and meaningful rather than fleeting and flat.
The setting throughout the years is frequently the hedge maze on Oliver's family grounds with its wall of white hyacinths and central stone muses, as well as the nearby lake and its swooping willow tree. These wholesome moments in the English countryside made me want to lose myself in the embrace of a garden myself, tucked under a flowering bush with the sounds of life muffled and distant.
If you're looking for a sweet, heartfelt romance with low-medium angst and the most glorious HEA, you'll love this book.
Weaving through time - ten years ago, two years ago, and present day - Beyond the Hedge Maze is a gentle, tender exploration of love, grief, heartbreak, and growing up. The structure of the story deepens the emotional payoff, almost like an undulating inhale and exhale, each shift in time bringing more life to their world.
Oliver and Jesse meet as 15-year-old boys during a summer of semi-forced proximity while Jesse's father works at the English estate belonging to Oliver's grandfather. The two boys are immediately drawn to each other - Jesse is enamored by Oliver's creativity and those glasses that always slide down his nose while Oliver is drawn in when Jesse treats him with kindness where others have only bullied and mocked. There's something so specific and tender about that particular teenage ache - being seen for the first time, wanting and being wanted for the first time - that Wolff captures well.
When their summer comes to an abrupt end, their paths diverge for nearly 8 years before a chance encounter thrusts them together again for a fleeting moment. And oh, how I hoped and prayed that their friends wouldn't let that spark slip through their fingers!
Two years following their brief reunion, Oliver is struggling with a significant family burden - overwhelmed and stubbornly clinging to a vision that may be out of reach. When Jesse returns to Oliver's family estate in a professional capacity, they find themselves in close proximity again, and they have to decide if they finally want to explore the young love that was blossoming over that summer so many years ago.
What makes their bond so compelling isn't just proximity or attraction. Jesse gives Oliver the kind of steady, unapologetic care that Oliver never received from his parents nor from the closeted boys at his school who only ever wanted him in the shadows. And Oliver offers Jesse a place where his grief, his feelings can be real, where he can be honest and still be loved.
That reciprocity is what carries the slow-burn reunion; I wasn't blindly rooting for them to get together. I was rooting for them because together they are better versions of themselves and those around them can see it.
Oliver and Jesse are both good men with heavy pasts. Thankfully both are also incredibly well supported by loyal friends who have their back no matter what.
Wolff's skill shines here: Rachel who astutely tracks everything and evokes honesty from Oliver when he's struggling; Sean with his overly affectionate and loud love which Jesse blames on Sean's Scottish roots; Rose, a surrogate mother for Oliver, who fusses and doesn't take any sh*t without ever leaving Oliver to face his troubles alone; and Charlotte, Jesse's workplace nemesis-turned-friend, once he realizes she's been overlooked by their bosses for being a woman. These small details make both friend circles feel lived in and meaningful rather than fleeting and flat.
The setting throughout the years is frequently the hedge maze on Oliver's family grounds with its wall of white hyacinths and central stone muses, as well as the nearby lake and its swooping willow tree. These wholesome moments in the English countryside made me want to lose myself in the embrace of a garden myself, tucked under a flowering bush with the sounds of life muffled and distant.
If you're looking for a sweet, heartfelt romance with low-medium angst and the most glorious HEA, you'll love this book.
October 12, 2026
This was a beautiful, tender love story! Oliver and Jesse completely stole my heart. Their story spans ten years, taking us from their first meeting as teenagers to their eventual reunion and second chance at love.
I loved how Jesse saw Oliver for who he was from the very beginning. Oliver had spent so much of his life feeling unwanted and dealing with bullying, so having someone genuinely see him and make him feel special meant everything. Jesse was so patient and caring, and I loved watching their connection grow into something deeper.
The slow burn and second-chance romance were so well done. These two never really stopped thinking about each other, and I was rooting for them to finally get their happy ending!
I also loved the beautiful English countryside setting and the hedge maze that played such an important role in their story. The side characters were fantastic, too, and I really appreciated how much love and support both men had around them.
A tender, heartfelt romance about first love, heartbreak and finding your way back to the person who always meant something to you. If you love childhood sweethearts, second chances and a gorgeous HEA, definitely give this one a read!
I loved how Jesse saw Oliver for who he was from the very beginning. Oliver had spent so much of his life feeling unwanted and dealing with bullying, so having someone genuinely see him and make him feel special meant everything. Jesse was so patient and caring, and I loved watching their connection grow into something deeper.
The slow burn and second-chance romance were so well done. These two never really stopped thinking about each other, and I was rooting for them to finally get their happy ending!
I also loved the beautiful English countryside setting and the hedge maze that played such an important role in their story. The side characters were fantastic, too, and I really appreciated how much love and support both men had around them.
A tender, heartfelt romance about first love, heartbreak and finding your way back to the person who always meant something to you. If you love childhood sweethearts, second chances and a gorgeous HEA, definitely give this one a read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book took me some time to really engage with. At the start, we leap ten years into the future, then jump ahead another two years, and then back a decade. I found it challenging to keep track of the boys' ages and the timeline of events.
Additionally, the narrative is written from a third POV, which sometimes made it difficult to maintain the flow. However, I do appreciate how each chapter alternates between characters, allowing us to feel their love for one another and gain a deeper understanding of their life experiences.
I rated this book 3.5 stars because I struggled to connect with it due to the constant time shifts, and I'm not always a fan of third POV. It took me a moment to grasp, but ultimately, it suited the story well.
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
Additionally, the narrative is written from a third POV, which sometimes made it difficult to maintain the flow. However, I do appreciate how each chapter alternates between characters, allowing us to feel their love for one another and gain a deeper understanding of their life experiences.
I rated this book 3.5 stars because I struggled to connect with it due to the constant time shifts, and I'm not always a fan of third POV. It took me a moment to grasp, but ultimately, it suited the story well.
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
September 28, 2026
Every now and then, you find a book that is as beautiful on the inside as on the outside. Beyond the Hedge Maze is one of these books! Obviously, the beautiful cover made me pick up this debut novel, but the fascinating characters and captivating story spanning a decade made me fall in love with it. British Oliver and American Jesse meet at 15, right after Jesse loses his mom, while Jesse’s father works for Oliver’s grandfather, an Earl. We see in flashbacks as the two boys spend a few weeks together, lost in the estate’s gorgeous hedge maze … slowly falling in love, while not fully realizing it. They reconnect again 10 years later, after Oliver gets his art degree (he is a painter) from Oxford, and Jesse finishes Cambridge. Oliver is trying (and struggling) to manage his grandfather’s estate by then while also dealing with his horrific parents. All Jesse wants is to help him, but it feels nearly impossible to find any way to stabilize his finances. While they are working together, it gives them time to get to know the adult versions of the boys they fell in love with. I honestly adored this book; I loved both main characters and their gentle courting of each other. Reading about Oliver’s connection to the nearby village was lovely; I also truly enjoyed all the scenes with the colorful group of friends they had. The writing style is flawless; it’s not a short book, yet by the time I got to the end, I still wanted more … more of Oliver, Jesse, and their perfect HEA. I really cannot recommend it enough! I’m so excited that there seem to be more books coming in this series.
I’ve received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
I’ve received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
October 11, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
4,5/5⭐
What a lovely read it was. Another great book and taking into consideration that it was a DEBUT, I must say I’m very impressed and I applaud the author. I was very pleased with a 3rd person POV because I think that it worked perfectly here.
First of all, there is almost no angst here. It’s a story of two people who simply find each other again and recognize that what they felt 10 years ago is still strongly present within them.
Oliver and Jesse. Both very lovable and sweet characters. Oliver is an artist but that was not the vocal point of the story as much as I thought. It is important but there is something that in my opinion is simply ahead, grief. Difficult and complicated emotion that can have a significant impact and in the case of Oliver, it unfortunately did. But Jesse comes back to his life and together not only they build back their relationship but also help each other build a new life together. Jesse while studying was a rower and after graduating already had a job chosen for him. He’s not exactly unhappy but at the same time neither is he satisfied with the way things are going. He felt like someone who was on autopilot and hadn't found his true calling yet. And then, when he reconnects with his teenage love it seems like he himself immediately knew that his place belonged next to Oliver.
The author wrote both of them very well. I was very happy with the general style and quality because all of it flowed very smoothly. Not once was I bored. I would’ve read it in one sitting if it weren’t for my other responsibilities.
The whole vibe (for a lack of a better word) was very enjoyable. Even though I was reading from a far away Poland, it felt like I was there in England. I really liked that aspect.
I cannot omit the maze element of the story. We have a real maze but also the metaphorical one. Our MCs have to find a way in life but also back to each other. And they do. Oliver knows the maze but he comes up empty when it comes to answers, while Jesse has some problems with finding his way but he can find a solution when one is needed. And that’s how the story goes. They complemented one another beautifully.
Background characters – present and basically a found family for our main couple. I’m left curious if maybe the author plans on writing about one or two of these characters in their next book…? The ground work feels like it was set and I’d be very happy to read more in the future about a certain Olympic rower.
I wish the book was longer so we could get more inside on a few things but to be clear that is not a complaint. It’s my current preference.
Overall, this book felt like a warm hug or very comfy blanket that makes us feel better. The love story is delicate and precious in a way that is realistic at the same time. And I think that this one can bring us comfort that sometimes we can’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking for something to uplift your mood or spirits, this book is a perfect choice, in my opinion. For any type of weather, for any type of day or time in our lives. If I had to give it some kind of a metaphor, in my head this book feels like sitting on a grass on an empty field. Only trees, birds and wind surround you. The sun is shining but a few clouds every few minutes or so cross its path. In the end you can sense peace all round you. And you know that life awaits but at this current moment you feel happy.
Dear author, thank you for giving me the chance to read this as an ARC. As always, it’s an honor for me, here is extra special since it was your debut novel. Thank you so much.🥹💛💚
4,5/5⭐
What a lovely read it was. Another great book and taking into consideration that it was a DEBUT, I must say I’m very impressed and I applaud the author. I was very pleased with a 3rd person POV because I think that it worked perfectly here.
First of all, there is almost no angst here. It’s a story of two people who simply find each other again and recognize that what they felt 10 years ago is still strongly present within them.
Oliver and Jesse. Both very lovable and sweet characters. Oliver is an artist but that was not the vocal point of the story as much as I thought. It is important but there is something that in my opinion is simply ahead, grief. Difficult and complicated emotion that can have a significant impact and in the case of Oliver, it unfortunately did. But Jesse comes back to his life and together not only they build back their relationship but also help each other build a new life together. Jesse while studying was a rower and after graduating already had a job chosen for him. He’s not exactly unhappy but at the same time neither is he satisfied with the way things are going. He felt like someone who was on autopilot and hadn't found his true calling yet. And then, when he reconnects with his teenage love it seems like he himself immediately knew that his place belonged next to Oliver.
The author wrote both of them very well. I was very happy with the general style and quality because all of it flowed very smoothly. Not once was I bored. I would’ve read it in one sitting if it weren’t for my other responsibilities.
The whole vibe (for a lack of a better word) was very enjoyable. Even though I was reading from a far away Poland, it felt like I was there in England. I really liked that aspect.
I cannot omit the maze element of the story. We have a real maze but also the metaphorical one. Our MCs have to find a way in life but also back to each other. And they do. Oliver knows the maze but he comes up empty when it comes to answers, while Jesse has some problems with finding his way but he can find a solution when one is needed. And that’s how the story goes. They complemented one another beautifully.
Background characters – present and basically a found family for our main couple. I’m left curious if maybe the author plans on writing about one or two of these characters in their next book…? The ground work feels like it was set and I’d be very happy to read more in the future about a certain Olympic rower.
I wish the book was longer so we could get more inside on a few things but to be clear that is not a complaint. It’s my current preference.
Overall, this book felt like a warm hug or very comfy blanket that makes us feel better. The love story is delicate and precious in a way that is realistic at the same time. And I think that this one can bring us comfort that sometimes we can’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking for something to uplift your mood or spirits, this book is a perfect choice, in my opinion. For any type of weather, for any type of day or time in our lives. If I had to give it some kind of a metaphor, in my head this book feels like sitting on a grass on an empty field. Only trees, birds and wind surround you. The sun is shining but a few clouds every few minutes or so cross its path. In the end you can sense peace all round you. And you know that life awaits but at this current moment you feel happy.
Dear author, thank you for giving me the chance to read this as an ARC. As always, it’s an honor for me, here is extra special since it was your debut novel. Thank you so much.🥹💛💚
Review of advance copy received from Autor
I don't think I even have the words to talk about this book the way I'd like to. I was very excited to read it and it was even better than I hoped! There's grief, yearning, the cutest love story, friendship and everything is amazing!
I was completely hooked and wanted to read it fast to know what happened but also wanted to take my time to properly enjoy it (and honestly didn't want it to end).
From the very first chapter I was *completely* in love with Oliver, ready to defend him in all his rights (and wrongs!!!). I love anxious shy boys and I related so much to him from the very beginning. At first I thought Jesse would be my favorite, he's very funny and charming, I also loved him but Oliver just has a very special place in my heart.
The flashbacks to their teenage summer were very wholesome and truly heartwarming. Their relationship was beautifully developed and I smiled the whole time from how cute and funny they were. I felt like I was right there enjoying the summer with them, exploring the maze and having picnics by the lake.
It's a great foundation for their relationship and helped to build just the right amount of slow burn and antecipation for the present days. Like, I almost SCREAMED when Jesse caressed Oliver's ankle and I think that says a lot. That's how desperate I was for them to be together. I was literally talking about how cute they are and how much I was enjoying this book to literally everyone.
The Chapman House is the perfect background and at some point I feel like it kinda evolves to become basically a character, full of quirks and hidden gems. And I love how it's something that was already so meaningful to Oliver and his grandfather and slowly grows as something equally as important to Jesse. It's an essential part of their story and relationship.
I was also very touched by the grief they both go through in different moments, it was sensible and relatable.
All their friends are really amazing and every time a new one was introduced I love them even more than the last. I wish I was part of their friend group! I really hope to see more of them! (pretty please?)
I was completely hooked and wanted to read it fast to know what happened but also wanted to take my time to properly enjoy it (and honestly didn't want it to end).
From the very first chapter I was *completely* in love with Oliver, ready to defend him in all his rights (and wrongs!!!). I love anxious shy boys and I related so much to him from the very beginning. At first I thought Jesse would be my favorite, he's very funny and charming, I also loved him but Oliver just has a very special place in my heart.
The flashbacks to their teenage summer were very wholesome and truly heartwarming. Their relationship was beautifully developed and I smiled the whole time from how cute and funny they were. I felt like I was right there enjoying the summer with them, exploring the maze and having picnics by the lake.
It's a great foundation for their relationship and helped to build just the right amount of slow burn and antecipation for the present days. Like, I almost SCREAMED when Jesse caressed Oliver's ankle and I think that says a lot. That's how desperate I was for them to be together. I was literally talking about how cute they are and how much I was enjoying this book to literally everyone.
The Chapman House is the perfect background and at some point I feel like it kinda evolves to become basically a character, full of quirks and hidden gems. And I love how it's something that was already so meaningful to Oliver and his grandfather and slowly grows as something equally as important to Jesse. It's an essential part of their story and relationship.
I was also very touched by the grief they both go through in different moments, it was sensible and relatable.
All their friends are really amazing and every time a new one was introduced I love them even more than the last. I wish I was part of their friend group! I really hope to see more of them! (pretty please?)
Review of advance copy received from Author
If this is Morgan’s debut novel then I can’t wait to read more of their work!
This is a gorgeous story about two men, kept apart by life and fate, finally reuniting and finding that the spark and connection they once shared as teenagers is still there. Even if it took 10 years, a boat race, a pub fight and a failing estate to get them back together.
The yearning is wonderful. The slow burn aspect of this story was excellently paced, allowing time to get to know Oliver and Jesse and have you frothing at the mouth ready for when they finally reconcile. I loved that once that happened, that was it for them. No messing around or back and forth about what they felt for the other. Jesse almost immediately seeing the estate as an “ours” and “we” thing warmed my little heart.
I thought Olivers parents never changing and becoming better was balanced really well by Jesse’s father recognising that the way he handled his grief over losing his wife had had a detrimental effect on his relationship with his son and that he was willing to do better.
I was relived when Oliver opened his grandfather’s letter and it didn’t include some magical solution that he could have used had he opened it earlier (I’ve read stories like that I hate it), but instead reaffirmed to Oliver that the estate was in his hands now and gave him the permission he didn’t know that he needed to do what needed to be done.
By far the most impressive thing about this story was how accurate Morgan wrote English life. It completely shocked me to find out that they are from Tennessee and not the UK! Everything from village life and how the English characters spoke is completely authentic. And without a single reference to beans on bloody toast!
I adored this story. I adored Oliver and Jesse and I’m hoping and I’m so glad that there’s going to be more books in this series because there can’t possibly just be one, especially when a debut novel is this well written.
This is a gorgeous story about two men, kept apart by life and fate, finally reuniting and finding that the spark and connection they once shared as teenagers is still there. Even if it took 10 years, a boat race, a pub fight and a failing estate to get them back together.
The yearning is wonderful. The slow burn aspect of this story was excellently paced, allowing time to get to know Oliver and Jesse and have you frothing at the mouth ready for when they finally reconcile. I loved that once that happened, that was it for them. No messing around or back and forth about what they felt for the other. Jesse almost immediately seeing the estate as an “ours” and “we” thing warmed my little heart.
I thought Olivers parents never changing and becoming better was balanced really well by Jesse’s father recognising that the way he handled his grief over losing his wife had had a detrimental effect on his relationship with his son and that he was willing to do better.
I was relived when Oliver opened his grandfather’s letter and it didn’t include some magical solution that he could have used had he opened it earlier (I’ve read stories like that I hate it), but instead reaffirmed to Oliver that the estate was in his hands now and gave him the permission he didn’t know that he needed to do what needed to be done.
By far the most impressive thing about this story was how accurate Morgan wrote English life. It completely shocked me to find out that they are from Tennessee and not the UK! Everything from village life and how the English characters spoke is completely authentic. And without a single reference to beans on bloody toast!
I adored this story. I adored Oliver and Jesse and I’m hoping and I’m so glad that there’s going to be more books in this series because there can’t possibly just be one, especially when a debut novel is this well written.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I will be honest, I would have DNF’d this book if I hadn’t been gifted this book in exchange for a review. I was initially really intrigued by the prologue and the excitement of the idea of long-lost love, but quickly realized that the author used this clunky back-and-forth in time narrative as a crutch to build tension. The problem is it doesn’t build tension, only annoyance. While the reader is told repeatedly Oliver and Jesse are so in love with each other, we don’t see them interact in any meaningful way until almost 40% into the book. That isn’t slow burn … there was no burn because you didn’t actually get to witness any of this love they both longed for – readers are just told it’s there. There was literally no reason this book couldn’t have been told in chronological order where you actually see, instead of being told, that these boys actually loved each other, and then see them reconnect later.
Eventually the story does stay more in the present time, and you see a bit of that connection that they were pining about for ten years, they are a cute couple, very low stakes romance at that point. The smut was just okay, it felt oddly clinical to me. It was like the author trying to hit certain notes to be considered ‘good’, so it was more focused on the actions and descriptions than what the moments meant to the characters.
Once you get to the actual climax of the plot the ‘tension’ just doesn’t feel high stakes enough based on the groundwork the rest of the story was attempting to convey. Overall this was a sub-par romance story to me, and edged on annoying because of the false sense of ‘longing’ the narrative device tried to artificially create with the timeline jumping around.
Eventually the story does stay more in the present time, and you see a bit of that connection that they were pining about for ten years, they are a cute couple, very low stakes romance at that point. The smut was just okay, it felt oddly clinical to me. It was like the author trying to hit certain notes to be considered ‘good’, so it was more focused on the actions and descriptions than what the moments meant to the characters.
Once you get to the actual climax of the plot the ‘tension’ just doesn’t feel high stakes enough based on the groundwork the rest of the story was attempting to convey. Overall this was a sub-par romance story to me, and edged on annoying because of the false sense of ‘longing’ the narrative device tried to artificially create with the timeline jumping around.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oliver and Jesse meet as teenagers when Jesse’s dad does some appraisal work for Oliver’s granddad. They spend a lot of time together in the hedge maze on the property and fall in love, though neither of them says the words. Jesse lost his mom and finds comfort in Oliver, who lives with his granddad because his parents are selfish, horrible people. One day Jesse and his dad leave and never return.
Years later, while at university, Oliver sees Jesse in a rowing race. But after a brief interaction, he runs off.
When Oliver loses his granddad and ends up inheriting everything, including his childhood home (that needs a lot of work) he reaches out for help from Jesse’s father’s company. And when Jesse shows up to do the appraisals, old feelings start to return, regardless of their resistance. Thanks to their meddling friends, they give in to the teenage love that they thought was lost forever.
I absolutely adored this story! The friend groups were so supportive. Oliver and Jesse bonding over losing a loved one was heartbreaking and sweet. I kept begging them to say those three little words they were both scared to say. The love and chemistry was strong. What a beautiful second chance love story!
Second Chance
Found Family
Athlete & Artist
Childhood Sweethearts
Forced Proximity
“I’m supposed to be a professional. I can’t show up all slutty with my elbows exposed.”
Maybe this was Oliver all grown up. No glasses, smartly dressed and put together, but still as beautiful even after all this time.
“These dimples are my favorite.”
“Don’t you think it’s too soon for us to meet each other’s friends?”
“No. No, I don’t, cariño. I think it’s ten years too late.”
Years later, while at university, Oliver sees Jesse in a rowing race. But after a brief interaction, he runs off.
When Oliver loses his granddad and ends up inheriting everything, including his childhood home (that needs a lot of work) he reaches out for help from Jesse’s father’s company. And when Jesse shows up to do the appraisals, old feelings start to return, regardless of their resistance. Thanks to their meddling friends, they give in to the teenage love that they thought was lost forever.
I absolutely adored this story! The friend groups were so supportive. Oliver and Jesse bonding over losing a loved one was heartbreaking and sweet. I kept begging them to say those three little words they were both scared to say. The love and chemistry was strong. What a beautiful second chance love story!
Second Chance
Found Family
Athlete & Artist
Childhood Sweethearts
Forced Proximity
“I’m supposed to be a professional. I can’t show up all slutty with my elbows exposed.”
Maybe this was Oliver all grown up. No glasses, smartly dressed and put together, but still as beautiful even after all this time.
“These dimples are my favorite.”
“Don’t you think it’s too soon for us to meet each other’s friends?”
“No. No, I don’t, cariño. I think it’s ten years too late.”
October 3, 2026
I was foaming at the mouth when Morgan started teasing this novel on social media earlier this year. When she opened ARC sign-ups, I ran. And she was kind enough to give me the opportunity to early read the story.
Everyone... I am in love with Oliver and Jesse. And captivated by how besotted they are with each other.
After a brief summer together as teenagers, where love was definitely in the air, Oliver and Jesse spend the next 10 years wondering "what if." When Oliver's beloved grandfather dies and leaves the family home to him, Oliver spends all of his time and money attempting to keep the house and grounds from falling apart. Out of options and soon-to-be out of money, he contacts Emerson Enterprises... a company owned by his childhood sweetheart's family.
Together, Oliver and Jesse embark on a mission to save Chapman House... and in the process find themselves falling in love all over again.
Our lovers are exquisitely written characters with so much heart and soul. You'll want to wrap them up in warm blankets and feed them snacks by the end. The pacing is perfect, and the way Morgan intertwined their past, made for a captivating story that I could not put down.
Set mainly in Gloucestershire, England, "Beyond the Hedge Maze" is a heartwarming, cozy, Regency vibes but make it modern, MM romance that will have you laughing, swooning, and probably crying happy tears. It's a story of second chances, found family, stunning scenery, and an exploration of how grief can change a person.
Do yourself a favor and get a copy of this book. You can thank me later!
Thank you, Morgan, for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Everyone... I am in love with Oliver and Jesse. And captivated by how besotted they are with each other.
After a brief summer together as teenagers, where love was definitely in the air, Oliver and Jesse spend the next 10 years wondering "what if." When Oliver's beloved grandfather dies and leaves the family home to him, Oliver spends all of his time and money attempting to keep the house and grounds from falling apart. Out of options and soon-to-be out of money, he contacts Emerson Enterprises... a company owned by his childhood sweetheart's family.
Together, Oliver and Jesse embark on a mission to save Chapman House... and in the process find themselves falling in love all over again.
Our lovers are exquisitely written characters with so much heart and soul. You'll want to wrap them up in warm blankets and feed them snacks by the end. The pacing is perfect, and the way Morgan intertwined their past, made for a captivating story that I could not put down.
Set mainly in Gloucestershire, England, "Beyond the Hedge Maze" is a heartwarming, cozy, Regency vibes but make it modern, MM romance that will have you laughing, swooning, and probably crying happy tears. It's a story of second chances, found family, stunning scenery, and an exploration of how grief can change a person.
Do yourself a favor and get a copy of this book. You can thank me later!
Thank you, Morgan, for the opportunity to read and review this book!
October 9, 2026
Beyond the Hedge Maze by Morgan Wolff
This queer romance follows Oliver and Jesse, two boys who fall for each other during one summer, only to meet again years later when life brings them back together. With old feelings still lingering and new challenges ahead, they have to figure out whether they can build the relationship they never got the chance to have when they were younger.
I liked how different Oliver and Jesse are, yet how naturally they fit together. Oliver is an artistic, anxious overthinker who struggles with his confidence, while Jesse is more open with his feelings but has his own fears about the future and family expectations. Their connection feels rooted in their shared past, and I especially enjoyed seeing how their friendship and first love shaped who they became. Oliver's friendships with Rachel and Isaac also bring some warmth and humor to the story.
Morgan Wolff's writing is descriptive and emotional, and the hedge maze makes a lovely recurring symbol throughout the book. The alternating POVs help us understand both men's feelings, although some internal thoughts and romantic moments feel a little repetitive. The story balances romance with grief, family issues, and the pressure of figuring out adulthood. While parts of the pacing could have been tighter, I stayed interested in seeing how Oliver and Jesse would work through their past and present.
Overall, this is a heartfelt second-chance romance with a sweet central relationship, plenty of emotional moments, and characters who feel like they have a life beyond their love story. A good pick for readers who enjoy queer romance with childhood history, longing, and a hopeful feel.
This queer romance follows Oliver and Jesse, two boys who fall for each other during one summer, only to meet again years later when life brings them back together. With old feelings still lingering and new challenges ahead, they have to figure out whether they can build the relationship they never got the chance to have when they were younger.
I liked how different Oliver and Jesse are, yet how naturally they fit together. Oliver is an artistic, anxious overthinker who struggles with his confidence, while Jesse is more open with his feelings but has his own fears about the future and family expectations. Their connection feels rooted in their shared past, and I especially enjoyed seeing how their friendship and first love shaped who they became. Oliver's friendships with Rachel and Isaac also bring some warmth and humor to the story.
Morgan Wolff's writing is descriptive and emotional, and the hedge maze makes a lovely recurring symbol throughout the book. The alternating POVs help us understand both men's feelings, although some internal thoughts and romantic moments feel a little repetitive. The story balances romance with grief, family issues, and the pressure of figuring out adulthood. While parts of the pacing could have been tighter, I stayed interested in seeing how Oliver and Jesse would work through their past and present.
Overall, this is a heartfelt second-chance romance with a sweet central relationship, plenty of emotional moments, and characters who feel like they have a life beyond their love story. A good pick for readers who enjoy queer romance with childhood history, longing, and a hopeful feel.
October 6, 2026
Beyond the Hedge Maze by Morgan Wolff is such a sweet, heartwarming story about love at different stages of life—from a youthful summer first love to the deeper, more mature love that can only come with age and life experience. I loved watching Jesse and Oliver’s relationship bloom and seeing how their history shaped the people they became.
The story unfolds across three different timelines: ten years ago, two years ago, and the present day. While I was initially surprised that the first quarter of the book was told primarily through the past, I quickly understood the payoff. By the time I reached the present day, I had so much more context for Jesse and Oliver’s relationship. I’m nosey to my core and want to know everything about people (both real and fictional), so this storytelling structure was perfect for me.
One of the central themes of this story is grief, which is handled with so much care and nuance. I really appreciated the way grief is portrayed as something that comes in waves—sometimes knocking the breath out of you, sometimes manifesting as anger or rage, and other times as an ache that simply lingers beneath the surface. Having experienced this firsthand, it felt incredibly honest and real.
Overall, Beyond the Hedge Maze is a beautiful story about first love, second chances, grief, growing up, and finding your way back to someone. I highly recommend checking it out!
The story unfolds across three different timelines: ten years ago, two years ago, and the present day. While I was initially surprised that the first quarter of the book was told primarily through the past, I quickly understood the payoff. By the time I reached the present day, I had so much more context for Jesse and Oliver’s relationship. I’m nosey to my core and want to know everything about people (both real and fictional), so this storytelling structure was perfect for me.
One of the central themes of this story is grief, which is handled with so much care and nuance. I really appreciated the way grief is portrayed as something that comes in waves—sometimes knocking the breath out of you, sometimes manifesting as anger or rage, and other times as an ache that simply lingers beneath the surface. Having experienced this firsthand, it felt incredibly honest and real.
Overall, Beyond the Hedge Maze is a beautiful story about first love, second chances, grief, growing up, and finding your way back to someone. I highly recommend checking it out!
September 26, 2026
I received an ARC of this book from the author. Thank you!
Beyond the Hedge Maze is an absolutely adorable book! Jesse and Oliver’s story is so sweet and heartfelt. I devoured it in no time at all, and loved every page. Morgan Wolff’s writing conjures a feeling of preciousness around people and places, making Chapman House, its occupants, and their friends and families feel remembered rather than discovered in this book.
And speaking of family, the dynamics between Jesse and Oliver and their biological relatives were beautifully written. Jesse’s pain at the loss of his mom and the tension between him and his dad were depicted with real tenderness, as was Oliver’s grief at the loss of someone he loved. Oliver’s parents’ behavior broke my heart, and added a level of intensity to the story, particularly the ending. Both Jesse and Oliver’s found families were vibrant and brought so much joy throughout the story.
Their romance built beautifully. Told in back-and-forth time jumps between 10 years ago, two years ago, and the present, each leap gave nuance to Jesse and Oliver’s love and their characters. It was so fun watching them grow from teenagers to university students to adults. The spice was just right and fit really well with the personalities and backstories of the characters.
I definitely recommend picking this one up when it comes out October 2!
Beyond the Hedge Maze is an absolutely adorable book! Jesse and Oliver’s story is so sweet and heartfelt. I devoured it in no time at all, and loved every page. Morgan Wolff’s writing conjures a feeling of preciousness around people and places, making Chapman House, its occupants, and their friends and families feel remembered rather than discovered in this book.
And speaking of family, the dynamics between Jesse and Oliver and their biological relatives were beautifully written. Jesse’s pain at the loss of his mom and the tension between him and his dad were depicted with real tenderness, as was Oliver’s grief at the loss of someone he loved. Oliver’s parents’ behavior broke my heart, and added a level of intensity to the story, particularly the ending. Both Jesse and Oliver’s found families were vibrant and brought so much joy throughout the story.
Their romance built beautifully. Told in back-and-forth time jumps between 10 years ago, two years ago, and the present, each leap gave nuance to Jesse and Oliver’s love and their characters. It was so fun watching them grow from teenagers to university students to adults. The spice was just right and fit really well with the personalities and backstories of the characters.
I definitely recommend picking this one up when it comes out October 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a beautiful love story told in three different timelines about Jesse and Oliver. It tracks them over ten years, when they first meet at 15 at Oliver’s grandfathers estate. Then eight at a rowing competition where they almost reconnect. And then finally the present, where they work together to find a way to help Oliver save the estate he loves so much but that he guards so closely to his chest.
Their love story is enhanced so much by the use of the different timelines, we see them at different stages in their lives and with each other. We see how things were before where they are at present. And the present has some challenges. But Jesse at his heart is such a care taker when it’s something he cares about deeply, and to him that’s the boy with cornflower blue eyes, Oliver. There isn’t anything he won’t do for him. The devotion is so beautiful, and Oliver needs it so much, he’s still grieving and his family life is not the best.
And Oliver still sees the boy with autumn in his eyes, he sees safety and trust. He sees a lifeline to keep the house he desperately needs to save.
I was emotional at so many points over reading this book, it’s about so much. Grief, love, how family is not necessarily blood related, and that letting people help and carry the heavy parts is so healing.
I’m so excited to see where the rest of this series is going to go and who is next.
Their love story is enhanced so much by the use of the different timelines, we see them at different stages in their lives and with each other. We see how things were before where they are at present. And the present has some challenges. But Jesse at his heart is such a care taker when it’s something he cares about deeply, and to him that’s the boy with cornflower blue eyes, Oliver. There isn’t anything he won’t do for him. The devotion is so beautiful, and Oliver needs it so much, he’s still grieving and his family life is not the best.
And Oliver still sees the boy with autumn in his eyes, he sees safety and trust. He sees a lifeline to keep the house he desperately needs to save.
I was emotional at so many points over reading this book, it’s about so much. Grief, love, how family is not necessarily blood related, and that letting people help and carry the heavy parts is so healing.
I’m so excited to see where the rest of this series is going to go and who is next.
October 9, 2026
Beyond the Hedge Maze by Morgan Wolff
Oliver and Jesse’s story begins with a summer romance that neither of them really forgets. Years later, they unexpectedly cross paths again at the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, bringing back old feelings and the possibility of a second chance. With a beautiful English estate, a meaningful hedge maze, and plenty of history between them, this is a story about love, timing, and finding your way back to someone.
I really liked the contrast between Oliver and Jesse. Oliver is a talented but rather insecure artist, while Jesse has a more confident, affectionate side, even when he’s struggling with his own future. Their connection feels sweet, and I loved how their shared memories give their relationship so much meaning. The story also explores grief, family expectations, and figuring out what you want from life, which adds more depth to the romance.
The writing is descriptive, and the alternating POVs let us understand both sides of their story. The pacing takes its time, especially as the past and present come together, so it’s more of a slow, emotional journey than a fast-paced romance. The heavier themes balance out the tender moments, making this one for readers who enjoy second-chance love stories with a little history behind them.
Paige’s take: A romance about first love, unfinished feelings, and finding your way back to each other.
Oliver and Jesse’s story begins with a summer romance that neither of them really forgets. Years later, they unexpectedly cross paths again at the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, bringing back old feelings and the possibility of a second chance. With a beautiful English estate, a meaningful hedge maze, and plenty of history between them, this is a story about love, timing, and finding your way back to someone.
I really liked the contrast between Oliver and Jesse. Oliver is a talented but rather insecure artist, while Jesse has a more confident, affectionate side, even when he’s struggling with his own future. Their connection feels sweet, and I loved how their shared memories give their relationship so much meaning. The story also explores grief, family expectations, and figuring out what you want from life, which adds more depth to the romance.
The writing is descriptive, and the alternating POVs let us understand both sides of their story. The pacing takes its time, especially as the past and present come together, so it’s more of a slow, emotional journey than a fast-paced romance. The heavier themes balance out the tender moments, making this one for readers who enjoy second-chance love stories with a little history behind them.
Paige’s take: A romance about first love, unfinished feelings, and finding your way back to each other.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Beyond the hedge maze by @morganewolff
This story is about Oliver and Jesse and it starts 10 years in the past Where they meet in a hedge maze, and their friendship begins.
When we flash back-and-forth between the past and the present we are getting to see Oliver and Jesse grow up, when they meet, and just their lives together and separate; you begin to learn about them just a little bit more.
Eight years later these two catch each other by chance and Jesse tries to reconnect but we find Oliver is too scared to even speak to Jesse. Another two years go by and these two come face to face again… neither man has lost feelings for the other.
Here’s what Jesse and Oliver need to figure out, Can their love survive life or was it just because of the maze? Can they have a future together as adults and not just as children?
This is the authors debut novel and it’s beautiful! The time jumps were done so well, because you get to see them at different stages of their lives. You learn about them all the way through childhood to adulthood and it makes the story feel so much more meaningful. I loved this book! This is book one in the series and I can’t wait to keep reading more!!
This story is about Oliver and Jesse and it starts 10 years in the past Where they meet in a hedge maze, and their friendship begins.
When we flash back-and-forth between the past and the present we are getting to see Oliver and Jesse grow up, when they meet, and just their lives together and separate; you begin to learn about them just a little bit more.
Eight years later these two catch each other by chance and Jesse tries to reconnect but we find Oliver is too scared to even speak to Jesse. Another two years go by and these two come face to face again… neither man has lost feelings for the other.
Here’s what Jesse and Oliver need to figure out, Can their love survive life or was it just because of the maze? Can they have a future together as adults and not just as children?
This is the authors debut novel and it’s beautiful! The time jumps were done so well, because you get to see them at different stages of their lives. You learn about them all the way through childhood to adulthood and it makes the story feel so much more meaningful. I loved this book! This is book one in the series and I can’t wait to keep reading more!!
October 5, 2026
⭐️ 4 stars
❤️🔥 a few detailed spicy scenes later in the book
{Thank you to the author for an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.}
WOW this was a beautiful debut novel. Jesse and Oliver are so sweet, and this story is the epitome of friends to lovers—how many people get to say they met their partner at 15 years old??? It’s absolutely adorable, beautiful, and sweet.
Morgan Wolff uses the switching of time to perfectly show the story of Jesse and Oliver, changing which timeline we see at the moments we need it. Having multiple timelines can be hard to execute, but Wolff was able to do it seamlessly.
The relationships throughout the novel are well thought-out. I was expecting Oliver’s grandfather to be the classic disapproving elder, but I was pleasantly surprised to see the love and support he has for Oliver. Seeing Jesse’s relationship with his dad grow and change was healing, and watching all the friends come together was so sweet.
While it didn’t quite hit 5-star territory for me, Beyond the Hedge Maze was a worthwhile read and one hell of a debut romance. I look forward to the next books in the series!
❤️🔥 a few detailed spicy scenes later in the book
{Thank you to the author for an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.}
WOW this was a beautiful debut novel. Jesse and Oliver are so sweet, and this story is the epitome of friends to lovers—how many people get to say they met their partner at 15 years old??? It’s absolutely adorable, beautiful, and sweet.
Morgan Wolff uses the switching of time to perfectly show the story of Jesse and Oliver, changing which timeline we see at the moments we need it. Having multiple timelines can be hard to execute, but Wolff was able to do it seamlessly.
The relationships throughout the novel are well thought-out. I was expecting Oliver’s grandfather to be the classic disapproving elder, but I was pleasantly surprised to see the love and support he has for Oliver. Seeing Jesse’s relationship with his dad grow and change was healing, and watching all the friends come together was so sweet.
While it didn’t quite hit 5-star territory for me, Beyond the Hedge Maze was a worthwhile read and one hell of a debut romance. I look forward to the next books in the series!
September 23, 2026
“…paint smeared across Oliver’s face, but he couldn’t care less. He’d scrape the acrylics off his skin for the rest of his life if it meant never stopping this kiss with Jesse.”
What an absolutely stunning debut. When I first read the tropes for Beyond The Hedge Maze, I thought god that sounds lovely - then I read it and was blown away. I was so enamoured with Chapman House, Jesse, Oliver, and their beautiful love story
The grief for lost love, lost family, and lost direction really hit hard with this story, but Wolff has created such wonderfully soft, safe feelings and such a longing for home in me, with their vivid descriptions and such gently penned prose. I really didn’t really have chance to give in to the well of emotions this story stirred up before I found myself being comforted by the family Oliver and Jesse had chosen along the way. It was so beautifully written I didn’t want it to end.
What a lovely second chance romance with incredible supporting characters, such natural diversity, and a HEA ten years in the making.
What an absolutely stunning debut. When I first read the tropes for Beyond The Hedge Maze, I thought god that sounds lovely - then I read it and was blown away. I was so enamoured with Chapman House, Jesse, Oliver, and their beautiful love story
The grief for lost love, lost family, and lost direction really hit hard with this story, but Wolff has created such wonderfully soft, safe feelings and such a longing for home in me, with their vivid descriptions and such gently penned prose. I really didn’t really have chance to give in to the well of emotions this story stirred up before I found myself being comforted by the family Oliver and Jesse had chosen along the way. It was so beautifully written I didn’t want it to end.
What a lovely second chance romance with incredible supporting characters, such natural diversity, and a HEA ten years in the making.
October 2, 2026
While this one may take a minute to get into because of the time jumps in the chapters - it all comes together in the end, but it’s a little jarring to keep track of the new story, the characters and the different timelines all at the very beginning of the story. But, Oliver and Jesse’s love story is a bit of a slow burn, second chance romance, following them from their teenage years to adulthood and making their way together.
Oliver inherits his family home after his grandfather’s death and finds himself overwhelmed by all the work that needs to be done to keep it standing. In an effort to make some money, he hires Jesse’s family’s company to help him assess the contents of the home to see what they can sell. And, of course, Jesse is the one to take the job, bringing him back to the place he and Oliver first met as teenagers. Things aren’t necessarily smooth once they’re back together, but the soon figure out how to work as a team to accomplish what Oliver needs and to work through their old hurts to get to something new, exciting and lasting.
I do think that we were missing a level of emotional connection in the present here though - I kept wanting them to talk more, have an honest conversation, something and felt a little disappointed when none of that really happened by the end. I also got irrationally angry every time Oliver’s parents appeared on the page - I know that it illustrated why he was so invested in saving the family home, but the fact that he kept so much of their abuse to himself for so long made me so sad.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I’m curious to see where the series takes us and which characters end up getting stories of their own!
Oliver inherits his family home after his grandfather’s death and finds himself overwhelmed by all the work that needs to be done to keep it standing. In an effort to make some money, he hires Jesse’s family’s company to help him assess the contents of the home to see what they can sell. And, of course, Jesse is the one to take the job, bringing him back to the place he and Oliver first met as teenagers. Things aren’t necessarily smooth once they’re back together, but the soon figure out how to work as a team to accomplish what Oliver needs and to work through their old hurts to get to something new, exciting and lasting.
I do think that we were missing a level of emotional connection in the present here though - I kept wanting them to talk more, have an honest conversation, something and felt a little disappointed when none of that really happened by the end. I also got irrationally angry every time Oliver’s parents appeared on the page - I know that it illustrated why he was so invested in saving the family home, but the fact that he kept so much of their abuse to himself for so long made me so sad.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I’m curious to see where the series takes us and which characters end up getting stories of their own!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Morgan for giving me an advance copy! I had the pleasure of meeting Morgan in June and I was so excited to find out that she was working on her debut novel! This was my first time reading a character who was a rower, so I enjoyed being able to look up the positions and figuring out how the sport worked. I loved how Jesse and Oliver grew over the course of the book. They learned how to be vulnerable with each other and rely on each other in times of need. I also appreciated the practical life experiences that Olivier in particular learned due to the fight over the estate. I also fell in love with all of the side characters as well, especially since they served as comedic relief. Oliver learned how to advocate and stand up for himself, so I was rooting for him the entire time. I loved this book and I can't wait to see how it does when it is released on October 2nd!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Morgan for giving me an advance copy! I had the pleasure of meeting Morgan in June and I was so excited to find out that she was working on her debut novel! This was my first time reading a character who was a rower, so I enjoyed being able to look up the positions and figuring out how the sport worked. I loved how Jesse and Oliver grew over the course of the book. They learned how to be vulnerable with each other and rely on each other in times of need. I also appreciated the practical life experiences that Olivier in particular learned due to the fight over the estate. I also fell in love with all of the side characters as well, especially since they served as comedic relief. Oliver learned how to advocate and stand up for himself, so I was rooting for him the entire time. I loved this book and I can't wait to see how it does when it is released on October 2nd!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is very cutesy, but the time jumps were giving me whiplash. It takes a long time to get to the present-day story and does not stay there, which makes it hard to stay engaged.
The author portrays these characters' grief well. Both characters experience it (Jesse with his mom and Oliver with his grandfather), and I am sure many readers will find that relatable. It's also a very sweet romance. They are an adorable pairing. It just might be a little too cute for me.
Finally, I love the supporting characters...Oliver and Jesse's friends. The twins....Sean...Rose... They all add so much life to the story.
I received an e-ARC of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
The author portrays these characters' grief well. Both characters experience it (Jesse with his mom and Oliver with his grandfather), and I am sure many readers will find that relatable. It's also a very sweet romance. They are an adorable pairing. It just might be a little too cute for me.
Finally, I love the supporting characters...Oliver and Jesse's friends. The twins....Sean...Rose... They all add so much life to the story.
I received an e-ARC of this book from the author, and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 ✨
This was such a sweet and beautiful story, even though it took me a little while to really settle into it. Jesse and Oliver’s second chance romance is a very slow burn, and I definitely felt that pace while reading.
One of my favourite things about this book was the atmosphere. The old estate, the hedge maze, and that almost beautiful setting added so much to the story and gave it a really lovely sense of place. I also thought the way grief was handled was genuinely beautiful, and the softer moments between Jesse and Oliver were really sweet.
The story moves between different points in time, and for me, the back and forth sometimes made it harder to stay fully immersed in the story. It also took me some time to engage with the third person POV. I usually don't mind third person, and I actually think it suited this story, but combined with the time jumps, it sometimes made it harder for me to fully connect with the story.
If you love slow burn second chance romance with a beautiful atmosphere and emotional depth, I think this is definitely worth checking out.
This was such a sweet and beautiful story, even though it took me a little while to really settle into it. Jesse and Oliver’s second chance romance is a very slow burn, and I definitely felt that pace while reading.
One of my favourite things about this book was the atmosphere. The old estate, the hedge maze, and that almost beautiful setting added so much to the story and gave it a really lovely sense of place. I also thought the way grief was handled was genuinely beautiful, and the softer moments between Jesse and Oliver were really sweet.
The story moves between different points in time, and for me, the back and forth sometimes made it harder to stay fully immersed in the story. It also took me some time to engage with the third person POV. I usually don't mind third person, and I actually think it suited this story, but combined with the time jumps, it sometimes made it harder for me to fully connect with the story.
If you love slow burn second chance romance with a beautiful atmosphere and emotional depth, I think this is definitely worth checking out.
October 9, 2026
🪡 dnf @ 26%
the real second chance here is the one i'm giving my sanity by closing this book.
⊹ the past and present timelines are jumbled so badly that i spent more time wondering : wait, which fcking timeline am i even in ffs!. legit chapters titled "2 yrs go" (which was the present) then we get "10 yrs ago" (the past btw).ᝰ.ᐟ such phenomenal work 👏🏻
⊹ the writing is clunky w/ the info dump style which turned reading into a slow-building migraine. ᝰ.ᐟexactly what we should all aspire for 🥰
⊹ 80 pages in, i felt *NOTHING* for these characters, past or present.
⊹ every time i thought about picking it back up, i could feel the sinking sense of dread.
𝜗𝜚 the blurb is a lie, there is nothing worth exploring here about life, love or grief.
the real second chance here is the one i'm giving my sanity by closing this book.
⊹ the past and present timelines are jumbled so badly that i spent more time wondering : wait, which fcking timeline am i even in ffs!. legit chapters titled "2 yrs go" (which was the present) then we get "10 yrs ago" (the past btw).ᝰ.ᐟ such phenomenal work 👏🏻
⊹ the writing is clunky w/ the info dump style which turned reading into a slow-building migraine. ᝰ.ᐟexactly what we should all aspire for 🥰
⊹ 80 pages in, i felt *NOTHING* for these characters, past or present.
⊹ every time i thought about picking it back up, i could feel the sinking sense of dread.
𝜗𝜚 the blurb is a lie, there is nothing worth exploring here about life, love or grief.
September 4, 2026
A perfectly paced, dual POV, second chance romance? Yes please!!
The only thing more gorgeous than the English manor setting was the romance between Oliver and Jesse. I fell in love with these two sweethearts right away. There was angst, amazing side characters, and the perfect heat level of spice. If you like found family, childhood crushes that unexpectedly find their way back, or just reading well-written characters with full backstories and a satisfying ending, PICK UP THIS BOOK.
I couldn’t believe this was Morgan’s debut novel and cannot wait to read the rest of the books in this series.
Thank you so much to Morgan for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
The only thing more gorgeous than the English manor setting was the romance between Oliver and Jesse. I fell in love with these two sweethearts right away. There was angst, amazing side characters, and the perfect heat level of spice. If you like found family, childhood crushes that unexpectedly find their way back, or just reading well-written characters with full backstories and a satisfying ending, PICK UP THIS BOOK.
I couldn’t believe this was Morgan’s debut novel and cannot wait to read the rest of the books in this series.
Thank you so much to Morgan for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"That's he hadn't decided to move nearly four thousand miles away from home on the off chance that he'd run into the only person he'd ever been in love with. But seeing Oliver confirmed that deep down he had always been a reason."
Thank you, @morganwolffwrites for my copy of Beyond the Hedge Maze, this is the first Tranatlantic Quartet book. This is Morgan's debut novel & I am excited to read more. Beyond the Hedge Maze shifts between 10 years ago and 2 years ago for the first third of the book, with additional chapters sent in the past sprinkled throughout.
💚 MM Romance
💛 Second Chance Romance
💚 Artist
💛 Athlete
💚 Found Family
💛 Dual POV
💚 Oxford & Cambridge
💛 Slow Burn
Thank you, @morganwolffwrites for my copy of Beyond the Hedge Maze, this is the first Tranatlantic Quartet book. This is Morgan's debut novel & I am excited to read more. Beyond the Hedge Maze shifts between 10 years ago and 2 years ago for the first third of the book, with additional chapters sent in the past sprinkled throughout.
💚 MM Romance
💛 Second Chance Romance
💚 Artist
💛 Athlete
💚 Found Family
💛 Dual POV
💚 Oxford & Cambridge
💛 Slow Burn
Review of advance copy received from Author
(4.5 stars)
This book was amazing. The character development of the two MMCs was phenomenally written between the time skips (10 years ago, 2 years ago, and present). It was so fun to watch these bumbling 15 year olds who have no idea what they are doing transform into adults who are finding each other again, after never forgetting one another. It is also very well written in the fact that they are finding themselves again after loss of all kinds. I loved watching Jesse and Oliver tackle problems together that I had never read in a book before. It was a very refreshing read and I look forward to more from this author!
This book was amazing. The character development of the two MMCs was phenomenally written between the time skips (10 years ago, 2 years ago, and present). It was so fun to watch these bumbling 15 year olds who have no idea what they are doing transform into adults who are finding each other again, after never forgetting one another. It is also very well written in the fact that they are finding themselves again after loss of all kinds. I loved watching Jesse and Oliver tackle problems together that I had never read in a book before. It was a very refreshing read and I look forward to more from this author!
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