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Starlight Grove #2
Into the Fading Twilight
Not yet published
Expected 7 Jul 26She’s known nothing but darkness for 413 days… but he’ll burn down the world to save her.
After a year in captivity, Nova Monroe is back in Starlight Grove―but she’s not the same woman who vanished. She lives on the edge, chases adrenaline, and refuses to be caged again. Cliff diving. Mountain biking. Anything to feel alive and outrun the memories clawing at her.
But the single dad with shadows of his own won’t let her face it alone. Especially when she finds herself needing a place to stay.
Kol Archer has made it his mission to protect her. As a Forest Service investigator, he’s no stranger to rugged terrain or battling for control. But nothing prepared him for Nova―her fire, her fight, the way she makes him feel something he thought was lost.
The closer they get, the more dangerous things become. Someone doesn’t want Nova to move on. And Kol is determined to stop them―no matter the cost.
Because for the first time in forever, Nova’s not just surviving. She’s learning how to live, how to trust, and reminding Kol he can, too. But as darkness looms, the truth could destroy them both…
After a year in captivity, Nova Monroe is back in Starlight Grove―but she’s not the same woman who vanished. She lives on the edge, chases adrenaline, and refuses to be caged again. Cliff diving. Mountain biking. Anything to feel alive and outrun the memories clawing at her.
But the single dad with shadows of his own won’t let her face it alone. Especially when she finds herself needing a place to stay.
Kol Archer has made it his mission to protect her. As a Forest Service investigator, he’s no stranger to rugged terrain or battling for control. But nothing prepared him for Nova―her fire, her fight, the way she makes him feel something he thought was lost.
The closer they get, the more dangerous things become. Someone doesn’t want Nova to move on. And Kol is determined to stop them―no matter the cost.
Because for the first time in forever, Nova’s not just surviving. She’s learning how to live, how to trust, and reminding Kol he can, too. But as darkness looms, the truth could destroy them both…
416 pages, Paperback
Expected publication July 7, 2026
About the author
Catherine Cowles
47 books30.2k followersWriter of words. Drinker of Diet Cokes. Lover of all things cute and furry, especially her dog. Catherine has had her nose in a book since the time she could read and finally decided to write down some of her own stories. When she's not writing she can be found exploring her home state of Oregon, listening to true crime podcasts, or searching for her next book boyfriend.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
Want to Read
February 23, 2026Are you kidding me with the tension between these two already? I got 2 pages with them and I’m already desperate.
The way I know Kol is gonna be alpha protective to her is sending me into orbit.
The way I know Kol is gonna be alpha protective to her is sending me into orbit.
May 10, 2026
I was so excited for Nova and Kol's story. Kol was my favourite brother alongside Orion, and I was desperate to finally get Nova's story too. Catherine Cowles absolutely nailed it for me. She didn't shy away from either Nova or Kol's trauma, and the way she brought them together was beautifully done.
I flew through this book in just a couple of hours because I genuinely couldn't put it down. The relationship development was a solid 10/10 for me and the pacing, plot and writing had me hooked. I definitely need to go back and read more of Catherine Cowles' books now.
I'm also two for two when it comes to guessing the 'villain', although I did doubt myself for a moment there - excellent plot twist! My only small gripe is that once Nova and Kol finally got together everything felt very full speed ahead from that point on.
Can't wait for Mav and Aster's book although sad we won't be getting Orion's book yet! But absolutely love the Archer family and how they all had a part in supporting Nova.
I received an advanced reading copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I flew through this book in just a couple of hours because I genuinely couldn't put it down. The relationship development was a solid 10/10 for me and the pacing, plot and writing had me hooked. I definitely need to go back and read more of Catherine Cowles' books now.
I'm also two for two when it comes to guessing the 'villain', although I did doubt myself for a moment there - excellent plot twist! My only small gripe is that once Nova and Kol finally got together everything felt very full speed ahead from that point on.
Can't wait for Mav and Aster's book although sad we won't be getting Orion's book yet! But absolutely love the Archer family and how they all had a part in supporting Nova.
I received an advanced reading copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Want to Read
April 26, 2026IM SO EXCITED. single dad YES PLEASEEEEEE
✧˖°💙 ⋆｡˚꩜ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭
⤷ single dad
⤷ roommates
⤷ trauma
⤷ small town
⤷ found family
⤷ forbidden
✧˖°💙 ⋆｡˚꩜ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭
⤷ single dad
⤷ roommates
⤷ trauma
⤷ small town
⤷ found family
⤷ forbidden
May 22, 2026
☆ 4.5 stars
📖 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 406 pages
👤 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: Catherine Cowles
🏢 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫: Evermore
📅 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 7 July 2026
What you can expect:
— Adult Contemporary Romantic Suspense
— First Person X Dual POV
— Grumpy X Sunshine
— Single Dad
— Roommates-To-Lovers
— Forbidden Romance
— ‘Touch Her And Die’
— Trauma & Healing
— Found Family
Into the Fading Twilight is the second instalment in the Starlight Grove series by author Catherine Cowles. As somebody that has read and loved her entire backlog (all 30+ books) I don’t mean it lightly when I say that this is not only my current favourite book of this series… but also my favourite Catherine Cowles book to-date. This story ticked every single checkbox and expectation that I had from the moment that I realised who the featured couple of the book would be during my read of Across the Vanishing Sky. The writing was immersive, the pacing was perfectly balanced between the romance and suspense elements, and the development of the characters felt perfectly executed with great emotional impact. The exploration of trauma, PTSD and survivor’s guilt was written to perfection in the way that Cowles refused to undermine the severity of these circumstances for not only on the victim, but also on the community of people that love them. The family bonds, both by blood and by choice, are one of this series’ greatest strengths and I adore the way that the Archer family all stick together in love and protection of one another. Into the Fading Twilight felt unputdownable from the very first page and I dreaded the moment I was forced to come up for air in-lieu of my adult responsibilities. This is a must-read for both new and returning fans of the romantic suspense genre that love a single dad, grumpy/sunshine and forbidden romance dynamic.
Nova Monroe… oh how my heart has been breaking for you since before the very first page in the prologue. My heart first shattered at the end of book one when she was believed to be dead… only for the tattered pieces to be hastily stitched back together with the revelation that she was in-fact alive and holding onto life. However those threads have since continued to unravel throughout her story progression as I have found myself on the precipice of tears on multiple occasions as a result of her trauma and the way this has shaped her as a person. My absolute favourite aspect to Nova’s story is the way that her healing journey isn't rushed nor is it linear. It's messy, vulnerable and at times uncomfortable to read about in the way that she struggles to recognise who she is after her ordeal. It’s about taking two steps forward just to suddenly find yourself taking four steps back. I adore that her story is a direct continuation of the events throughout Across the Vanishing Sky as I feel like I’ve truly been given the opportunity to fully grasp and understand Nova’s journey from beginning-to-end. I will forever be in awe of the strength that she manages to pull from within herself in her refusal to lay down and give up. Nova is a woman that has looked darkness in the eye and has fought to see its beauty no matter how isolated she became. The way she strives to live as much of a normal life in her discovery to figure out who she is as a person after everything was commendable. Nova’s resilience and determination to not just survive, but live, is awe-inspiring and makes for a compelling journey to follow her on. It was everything to me in getting to see Nova work through her trauma within her own way and on her own terms. Most of all… I loved that her journey wasn’t ’over’ by the end of her story. Nova progressed immensely in her path towards healing throughout the book, however it becomes clear in the end that she still has ways to go which felt honest and realistic. Nova is a beautifully complex and established character that I have loved every moment getting to know on a much deeper level, and I am looking forward to any cameos she will have throughout the duration of this series.
Kol Archer is the grumpy single dad of all of our dreams (don’t even try to deny it) and I loved getting the opportunity to understand his character and trauma on a much deeper, more intimate level. He really surprised me with just how soft and tender he is and the way that he’s unafraid to love his people loudly. Kol is still gruff and broody at times, and yet still his devotion for his loved ones is unmatched. I loved getting to explore those individual connections through his own POV and to see how he interacts differently with each person. However it also became clear to me very quickly just how much weight Kol carries on his shoulders. The misplaced guilt and responsibility for the events of his past broke my heart in the way that he holds himself back from living a full life in some twisted form of atonement that not his to pay. He lives for others rather than himself so I was thrilled to see Kol learn how to reach for what he wanted without factoring in the needs of others. Kol is a kind, emphatic and gentle man that is capable of so much love and light to the people that matter. I understood why he was afraid to let outsiders into the Archer family dynamic after all they endured, but still in this he has managed to secure a trusted circle that he can rely on for help. Kol was a wonderful character to explore and I couldn’t be happier with the beautiful family that he finds himself with by the end of his story.
The relationships explored throughout Into the Fading Twilight, both romantic and non-romantic, are such an essential and beautifully executed attribute to the story that helped to support the developing of both main characters. The bonds that Kol shares with his brothers and uncle Waylon continues to be an absolute highlight of the series as they prove time and again how deep their emotional ties run. The way that Waylon acts not only as an uncle but as the father-figure that the Archer men deserve had me close to tears on several occasions. Kol’s relationship with his deeply empathetic, funny and chaotic daughter Skylar plays a pivotal role in softening his tough demeanour in the way that it leaves a crack in an otherwise impenetrable doorway into connection. The way he dotes on his child and strives to be the best version of himself for her benefit was beautiful to witness. The small circle of people that Kol trusts and considers friends feels all the more impactful as this enables the readers to further explore his intricacies as a character.
The progression of Nova’s relationships, both pre—established and new, feel very significant to her healing journey as we get to understand what has changed for Nova in the present compared to the past. Her friendship with Brae was equal parts devastating and fulfilling as we, the reader, are forced to endure the stumbling of two people that love one other endlessly suddenly having to re-learn how they can express that love after all they have endured. I really appreciated the moment that Nova realised that she has to sometimes hurt the feelings of the people that she loves in order to prioritise herself and find her own way past her trauma. It was difficult to read at times knowing just how badly Brae wanted to be a supporting voice for her best friend whilst being unsure on how to do so. Nova’s close bond with the adorable children of the series, Owen and Skylar, felt fulfilling as they acted like the perfect safety net for her to simply exist as she is. To be around two small humans that don’t try to push her towards a point of her recovery that she’s not ready to be in just yet, nor communicate the words that aren’t ready to be expressed. There’s a gentle innocence in being around people without existing pressure and responsibility, and I was beyond thrilled that Nova had a space like that to feel more settled in.
The romantic relationship between Kol and Nova was everything I could’ve hoped for in the way that their slow-burn progression enabled them to establish a foundation of friendship to build their feelings upon. The tension and yearning left me (metaphorically) biting my fist whilst simultaneously fighting against tears at the tenderness of their emotional connection. I was thrilled to see an on-page discussion surrounding the concerns of toxic codependency and trauma bonds as this opens a positive gateway to healthy conversation. It was beautiful to witness Nova find a safe space within Kol in the way that he supported her through her recovery within her own terms. He never once rushes her into something that she isn’t ready for and fully trusts that she will progress as she needs. The trust and vulnerability that they express is everything that I had hoped to see as both characters work to unpack their own individual trauma, and I think the slow-burn approach to their romantic relationship was well planned in this regard. My one and only note is I did find the love declarations to happen quite quickly once they progress forward past friendship, but ultimately I understand that these feelings were most likely present and just not verbalised until then. Kol and Nova are such a wonderful couple that made their complex connection feel effortless despite the apparent work and care they both characters have put in.
Into the Fading Twilight was such an incredible follow-up to Across the Vanishing Sky and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book. The revelations in this one had me feeling so shocked that I felt like I lost my jaw on the floor… and I’m genuinely still reeling as I write this review. I quite literally squealed with excitement at the end of the story where we get an insight into which couple Beneath a Midnight Moon will be centred around… and the sneaky trope reveal that we can expect to look forward to. I’m so grateful that author Catherine Cowles is spoiling us with three book releases this year as this means we should expect the third book in our hands by the end of 2026… so don’t mind me eagerly counting down the days in my excitement.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞.
📖 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 406 pages
👤 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: Catherine Cowles
🏢 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫: Evermore
📅 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 7 July 2026
What you can expect:
— Adult Contemporary Romantic Suspense
— First Person X Dual POV
— Grumpy X Sunshine
— Single Dad
— Roommates-To-Lovers
— Forbidden Romance
— ‘Touch Her And Die’
— Trauma & Healing
— Found Family
Into the Fading Twilight is the second instalment in the Starlight Grove series by author Catherine Cowles. As somebody that has read and loved her entire backlog (all 30+ books) I don’t mean it lightly when I say that this is not only my current favourite book of this series… but also my favourite Catherine Cowles book to-date. This story ticked every single checkbox and expectation that I had from the moment that I realised who the featured couple of the book would be during my read of Across the Vanishing Sky. The writing was immersive, the pacing was perfectly balanced between the romance and suspense elements, and the development of the characters felt perfectly executed with great emotional impact. The exploration of trauma, PTSD and survivor’s guilt was written to perfection in the way that Cowles refused to undermine the severity of these circumstances for not only on the victim, but also on the community of people that love them. The family bonds, both by blood and by choice, are one of this series’ greatest strengths and I adore the way that the Archer family all stick together in love and protection of one another. Into the Fading Twilight felt unputdownable from the very first page and I dreaded the moment I was forced to come up for air in-lieu of my adult responsibilities. This is a must-read for both new and returning fans of the romantic suspense genre that love a single dad, grumpy/sunshine and forbidden romance dynamic.
Nova Monroe… oh how my heart has been breaking for you since before the very first page in the prologue. My heart first shattered at the end of book one when she was believed to be dead… only for the tattered pieces to be hastily stitched back together with the revelation that she was in-fact alive and holding onto life. However those threads have since continued to unravel throughout her story progression as I have found myself on the precipice of tears on multiple occasions as a result of her trauma and the way this has shaped her as a person. My absolute favourite aspect to Nova’s story is the way that her healing journey isn't rushed nor is it linear. It's messy, vulnerable and at times uncomfortable to read about in the way that she struggles to recognise who she is after her ordeal. It’s about taking two steps forward just to suddenly find yourself taking four steps back. I adore that her story is a direct continuation of the events throughout Across the Vanishing Sky as I feel like I’ve truly been given the opportunity to fully grasp and understand Nova’s journey from beginning-to-end. I will forever be in awe of the strength that she manages to pull from within herself in her refusal to lay down and give up. Nova is a woman that has looked darkness in the eye and has fought to see its beauty no matter how isolated she became. The way she strives to live as much of a normal life in her discovery to figure out who she is as a person after everything was commendable. Nova’s resilience and determination to not just survive, but live, is awe-inspiring and makes for a compelling journey to follow her on. It was everything to me in getting to see Nova work through her trauma within her own way and on her own terms. Most of all… I loved that her journey wasn’t ’over’ by the end of her story. Nova progressed immensely in her path towards healing throughout the book, however it becomes clear in the end that she still has ways to go which felt honest and realistic. Nova is a beautifully complex and established character that I have loved every moment getting to know on a much deeper level, and I am looking forward to any cameos she will have throughout the duration of this series.
Kol Archer is the grumpy single dad of all of our dreams (don’t even try to deny it) and I loved getting the opportunity to understand his character and trauma on a much deeper, more intimate level. He really surprised me with just how soft and tender he is and the way that he’s unafraid to love his people loudly. Kol is still gruff and broody at times, and yet still his devotion for his loved ones is unmatched. I loved getting to explore those individual connections through his own POV and to see how he interacts differently with each person. However it also became clear to me very quickly just how much weight Kol carries on his shoulders. The misplaced guilt and responsibility for the events of his past broke my heart in the way that he holds himself back from living a full life in some twisted form of atonement that not his to pay. He lives for others rather than himself so I was thrilled to see Kol learn how to reach for what he wanted without factoring in the needs of others. Kol is a kind, emphatic and gentle man that is capable of so much love and light to the people that matter. I understood why he was afraid to let outsiders into the Archer family dynamic after all they endured, but still in this he has managed to secure a trusted circle that he can rely on for help. Kol was a wonderful character to explore and I couldn’t be happier with the beautiful family that he finds himself with by the end of his story.
The relationships explored throughout Into the Fading Twilight, both romantic and non-romantic, are such an essential and beautifully executed attribute to the story that helped to support the developing of both main characters. The bonds that Kol shares with his brothers and uncle Waylon continues to be an absolute highlight of the series as they prove time and again how deep their emotional ties run. The way that Waylon acts not only as an uncle but as the father-figure that the Archer men deserve had me close to tears on several occasions. Kol’s relationship with his deeply empathetic, funny and chaotic daughter Skylar plays a pivotal role in softening his tough demeanour in the way that it leaves a crack in an otherwise impenetrable doorway into connection. The way he dotes on his child and strives to be the best version of himself for her benefit was beautiful to witness. The small circle of people that Kol trusts and considers friends feels all the more impactful as this enables the readers to further explore his intricacies as a character.
The progression of Nova’s relationships, both pre—established and new, feel very significant to her healing journey as we get to understand what has changed for Nova in the present compared to the past. Her friendship with Brae was equal parts devastating and fulfilling as we, the reader, are forced to endure the stumbling of two people that love one other endlessly suddenly having to re-learn how they can express that love after all they have endured. I really appreciated the moment that Nova realised that she has to sometimes hurt the feelings of the people that she loves in order to prioritise herself and find her own way past her trauma. It was difficult to read at times knowing just how badly Brae wanted to be a supporting voice for her best friend whilst being unsure on how to do so. Nova’s close bond with the adorable children of the series, Owen and Skylar, felt fulfilling as they acted like the perfect safety net for her to simply exist as she is. To be around two small humans that don’t try to push her towards a point of her recovery that she’s not ready to be in just yet, nor communicate the words that aren’t ready to be expressed. There’s a gentle innocence in being around people without existing pressure and responsibility, and I was beyond thrilled that Nova had a space like that to feel more settled in.
The romantic relationship between Kol and Nova was everything I could’ve hoped for in the way that their slow-burn progression enabled them to establish a foundation of friendship to build their feelings upon. The tension and yearning left me (metaphorically) biting my fist whilst simultaneously fighting against tears at the tenderness of their emotional connection. I was thrilled to see an on-page discussion surrounding the concerns of toxic codependency and trauma bonds as this opens a positive gateway to healthy conversation. It was beautiful to witness Nova find a safe space within Kol in the way that he supported her through her recovery within her own terms. He never once rushes her into something that she isn’t ready for and fully trusts that she will progress as she needs. The trust and vulnerability that they express is everything that I had hoped to see as both characters work to unpack their own individual trauma, and I think the slow-burn approach to their romantic relationship was well planned in this regard. My one and only note is I did find the love declarations to happen quite quickly once they progress forward past friendship, but ultimately I understand that these feelings were most likely present and just not verbalised until then. Kol and Nova are such a wonderful couple that made their complex connection feel effortless despite the apparent work and care they both characters have put in.
Into the Fading Twilight was such an incredible follow-up to Across the Vanishing Sky and I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book. The revelations in this one had me feeling so shocked that I felt like I lost my jaw on the floor… and I’m genuinely still reeling as I write this review. I quite literally squealed with excitement at the end of the story where we get an insight into which couple Beneath a Midnight Moon will be centred around… and the sneaky trope reveal that we can expect to look forward to. I’m so grateful that author Catherine Cowles is spoiling us with three book releases this year as this means we should expect the third book in our hands by the end of 2026… so don’t mind me eagerly counting down the days in my excitement.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞.
March 26, 2026
Thank you to Edelweiss for the early copy of the book!! I just want to start off by saying that I’m pretty sure Kol and Nova will be my favorite couple out of this series! Grumpy dad who really only talks to his child who then is the person who founds the missing MC? Yeah watching these two feel the draw to each other and Kol slowly allowing Nova not only in but also being there when she needs a hard place to land, sign me up. This book was well written and I couldn’t help but actually slow down and drink this book in. Catherine did a great job fleshing not only the characters out separately but finding a way to bring the together in the perfect way. I loved this book from start to finish!
June 1, 2026
5 ⭐️
SPECTACULAR, I NEED 14 more right tf nowwwww, November is too far away omggg 😭😭
Full review to follow when I’ve processed what just has happened
SPECTACULAR, I NEED 14 more right tf nowwwww, November is too far away omggg 😭😭
Full review to follow when I’ve processed what just has happened
May 17, 2026
OH! MY! GOD!
Into the Fading Twilight is now my favourite book by Catherine, and, in my opinion, her absolute best work to date. 🙂↕️😮💨
From the moment I found out who the main characters of this book were, I was FERAL for it! I dropped everything as soon as it landed on my kindle because I couldn’t wait to read Nova and Kol’s story! 🏃🏼♀️
This book was EVERYTHING I had hoped it would be - painful and heart-wrenching, but also making me giggle, kick my feet, swoon, and cry happy tears. 🥺
My heart was BREAKING for Nova because of the horrors she went through, and how desperately she was trying to outrun the demons of her past and carry on with her life. Her journey was devastating, and I just wanted to give her the biggest hug and protect her from the whole world. But it was also so empowering and wonderful to see her find her own strength again, stop running, face things head-on, and become confident in her ability to protect herself. And in the moments when things became too much, when the darkness threatened to swallow her whole - *KOL ENTERS THE CHAT*. 😏
It felt like Kol and Nova were kindred souls who finally connected the moment they met under the most devastating circumstances, and had longed for each other ever since.
Kol DESTROYED ME. This man was so supportive, understanding, and caring throughout Nova’s healing journey. He was the one person who understood her like no one else could. And despite the scars, fear, and pain they both carried, they still showed each other unconditional love, met each other in the darkness, and became each other’s light. My chest is literally about to explode because of how much love I have for these two. 🥺🩵
And if Kol’s relationship with Nova wasn’t enough of an emotional punch (in the best way), his relationship with his daughter, Skylar, was THE SWEETEST THING. I also absolutely loved the friendship Sky developed with Nova, and how she became another person helping Nova live her life to the fullest.
I also loved seeing how Catherine navigated the friendship between Nova and Brae. I was very curious to see what it would look like after everything they both went through, and I really liked how it was handled.
THE PLOT TWIST THOUGH! I NEVER SAW THIS COMING! I had my detective hat the entire time while reading. I was digging in deep, creating a list of suspects, and ONCE AGAIN - GOT BESTED BY QUEEN CATHERINE! My jaw was on the floor, and the way I screamed when I realised who the villain was! I could never have guessed it! Everything I though I knew was turned upside down. Honestly, Catherine, BRAVO! 👏🏻
I feel like Into the Fading Twilight made me even more feral for this series than I already was before reading it, and I’m SO HOOKED! I need the next book IMMEDIATELY, I need it like AIR! We’re in for an absolute treat with the tortured Archer brothers, and I can’t thank Catherine enough for introducing them into my life! 🙂↕️🩵
Thank you so much Evermore & Catherine for this ARC.
Into the Fading Twilight is now my favourite book by Catherine, and, in my opinion, her absolute best work to date. 🙂↕️😮💨
From the moment I found out who the main characters of this book were, I was FERAL for it! I dropped everything as soon as it landed on my kindle because I couldn’t wait to read Nova and Kol’s story! 🏃🏼♀️
This book was EVERYTHING I had hoped it would be - painful and heart-wrenching, but also making me giggle, kick my feet, swoon, and cry happy tears. 🥺
My heart was BREAKING for Nova because of the horrors she went through, and how desperately she was trying to outrun the demons of her past and carry on with her life. Her journey was devastating, and I just wanted to give her the biggest hug and protect her from the whole world. But it was also so empowering and wonderful to see her find her own strength again, stop running, face things head-on, and become confident in her ability to protect herself. And in the moments when things became too much, when the darkness threatened to swallow her whole - *KOL ENTERS THE CHAT*. 😏
It felt like Kol and Nova were kindred souls who finally connected the moment they met under the most devastating circumstances, and had longed for each other ever since.
Kol DESTROYED ME. This man was so supportive, understanding, and caring throughout Nova’s healing journey. He was the one person who understood her like no one else could. And despite the scars, fear, and pain they both carried, they still showed each other unconditional love, met each other in the darkness, and became each other’s light. My chest is literally about to explode because of how much love I have for these two. 🥺🩵
And if Kol’s relationship with Nova wasn’t enough of an emotional punch (in the best way), his relationship with his daughter, Skylar, was THE SWEETEST THING. I also absolutely loved the friendship Sky developed with Nova, and how she became another person helping Nova live her life to the fullest.
I also loved seeing how Catherine navigated the friendship between Nova and Brae. I was very curious to see what it would look like after everything they both went through, and I really liked how it was handled.
THE PLOT TWIST THOUGH! I NEVER SAW THIS COMING! I had my detective hat the entire time while reading. I was digging in deep, creating a list of suspects, and ONCE AGAIN - GOT BESTED BY QUEEN CATHERINE! My jaw was on the floor, and the way I screamed when I realised who the villain was! I could never have guessed it! Everything I though I knew was turned upside down. Honestly, Catherine, BRAVO! 👏🏻
I feel like Into the Fading Twilight made me even more feral for this series than I already was before reading it, and I’m SO HOOKED! I need the next book IMMEDIATELY, I need it like AIR! We’re in for an absolute treat with the tortured Archer brothers, and I can’t thank Catherine enough for introducing them into my life! 🙂↕️🩵
Thank you so much Evermore & Catherine for this ARC.
May 23, 2026
Thank you to the publisher for giving me an eARC of this book.
I really enjoyed this one, I think I liked it more than the first. I loved both main characters, and the romance was very sweet. I actually was pretty surprised by who the bad guy was, I started to have my doubts right before the big reveal so this was a nice twist! I'm excited for more ;)
I really enjoyed this one, I think I liked it more than the first. I loved both main characters, and the romance was very sweet. I actually was pretty surprised by who the bad guy was, I started to have my doubts right before the big reveal so this was a nice twist! I'm excited for more ;)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ripped out my heart, stomped on it and then gave it a little plaster to try and hold it back together. I fear I will never recover. I too, need a hug.
The single dad aspect of this story fit perfectly, the tender moments between Skylar and Nova may have healed something inside of me. Their connection, and the way Nova fit into Kol's family thawed my heart.
The trauma recovery felt beautifully paced and I adored getting to explore more of the boys' personalities. The presence of Brae, Dex and Owen didn't take away from the story but built on it and felt as though it added to the feel of book 1. Gosh, I could talk to you about the dynamics in this book for hours.
Every time I fail to guess the antagonist in a Catherine Cowles novel, I doubt my likelihood of survival in a horror film. She gets me every single time. My face was in shock at the reveal in this one, I don't think I've been more wrong before!
The single dad aspect of this story fit perfectly, the tender moments between Skylar and Nova may have healed something inside of me. Their connection, and the way Nova fit into Kol's family thawed my heart.
The trauma recovery felt beautifully paced and I adored getting to explore more of the boys' personalities. The presence of Brae, Dex and Owen didn't take away from the story but built on it and felt as though it added to the feel of book 1. Gosh, I could talk to you about the dynamics in this book for hours.
Every time I fail to guess the antagonist in a Catherine Cowles novel, I doubt my likelihood of survival in a horror film. She gets me every single time. My face was in shock at the reveal in this one, I don't think I've been more wrong before!
May 4, 2026
Thank you to Penguin for an advanced copy ✨
I didn’t think anything could beat book 1 but this just did that!
The way Nova’s character is portrayed is so complex but understandable as she adapts to trying to regain any sense of a normal life. And Kol, I loved getting chapters from his POV as he is still dealing with the trauma of his past whilst being the most amazing dad to Skylar (we all need a Skylar in our life, a strong little princess in combat boots and fairy wings!!) But this is why they worked so well as Kol seen Nova for who she really is now and he understood exactly what she needed and the care and love they shown each other was heartbreaking as they both dealt with the trauma together.
Throw in a murder mystery and I was hooked! The way Catherine Cowles writes these books so that I am smiling like a school girl at one chapter and the next it gives me chills at how terrifying and shocking it is, is incredible!
And now I am desperate for book 3.
If I’m correct in guessing who the next book is about, then this is the brother I’ve been most excited about!
I didn’t think anything could beat book 1 but this just did that!
The way Nova’s character is portrayed is so complex but understandable as she adapts to trying to regain any sense of a normal life. And Kol, I loved getting chapters from his POV as he is still dealing with the trauma of his past whilst being the most amazing dad to Skylar (we all need a Skylar in our life, a strong little princess in combat boots and fairy wings!!) But this is why they worked so well as Kol seen Nova for who she really is now and he understood exactly what she needed and the care and love they shown each other was heartbreaking as they both dealt with the trauma together.
Throw in a murder mystery and I was hooked! The way Catherine Cowles writes these books so that I am smiling like a school girl at one chapter and the next it gives me chills at how terrifying and shocking it is, is incredible!
And now I am desperate for book 3.
If I’m correct in guessing who the next book is about, then this is the brother I’ve been most excited about!
May 21, 2026
Catherine Cowles has a way of taking broken characters, putting them through the wringer, and somehow delivering a story that feels both heartbreaking and healing but Into the Fading Twilight wasn’t just another great Catherine Cowles book for me. This was a special one, and honestly one of my absolute favorites she’s ever written. I know I say that every time but I swear every book just gets better.
Nova’s story completely stole my heart. After everything she’s endured, watching her fight for herself, learn to trust again, and slowly begin to live instead of just survive was such an emotional journey. Catherine handled her trauma recovery with so much care and authenticity, and I felt every step of Nova’s healing.
And KOL? OH my god this man absolutely owns a piece of my heart now. Protective, patient, steady, and exactly the kind of hero Nova needed without ever overshadowing her strength. The way he showed up for her in the big moments, in the quiet moments, in all the ways that mattered had me absolutely melting. Their romance was such a gorgeous slow burn that felt deeply emotional, tender, and so incredibly earned.
And getting more time with the Archer family? I ate that up. Catherine always creates side characters that feel so real and lovable, and being back with this family made the entire story feel even richer.
And because this is Catherine Cowles, the suspense thread kept me completely hooked right alongside the romance. She always knows exactly how to build tension without ever letting it overshadow the emotional core of the story.
This book made me ache, swoon, smile, and just sit there soaking in all the feelings when I finished. Catherine Cowles is already an auto-buy author for me, but this one cemented itself as one of my favorites. Such a beautiful story about healing, love, found family, and finding your way back to yourself.
Thank you Bloom Books for the advance copy. All thoughts are my own.
Nova’s story completely stole my heart. After everything she’s endured, watching her fight for herself, learn to trust again, and slowly begin to live instead of just survive was such an emotional journey. Catherine handled her trauma recovery with so much care and authenticity, and I felt every step of Nova’s healing.
And KOL? OH my god this man absolutely owns a piece of my heart now. Protective, patient, steady, and exactly the kind of hero Nova needed without ever overshadowing her strength. The way he showed up for her in the big moments, in the quiet moments, in all the ways that mattered had me absolutely melting. Their romance was such a gorgeous slow burn that felt deeply emotional, tender, and so incredibly earned.
And getting more time with the Archer family? I ate that up. Catherine always creates side characters that feel so real and lovable, and being back with this family made the entire story feel even richer.
And because this is Catherine Cowles, the suspense thread kept me completely hooked right alongside the romance. She always knows exactly how to build tension without ever letting it overshadow the emotional core of the story.
This book made me ache, swoon, smile, and just sit there soaking in all the feelings when I finished. Catherine Cowles is already an auto-buy author for me, but this one cemented itself as one of my favorites. Such a beautiful story about healing, love, found family, and finding your way back to yourself.
Thank you Bloom Books for the advance copy. All thoughts are my own.
April 4, 2026
Title: Into the Fading Twilight
Author: Catherine Cowles
Series: Starlight Grove, 2
Format: Edelweiss ebook
Genre: Contemporary, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV’s: Nova (FMC) &
What to expect:
*Hurt/Comfort trauma bonding
*Single dad
*Small town, found family
Safety:
No OW/OM drama in the form of jealousy. Some on page violence. Flashbacks of abuse and captivity.
Review:
My favorite part of a Catherine Cowles book is guessing who the bad guy will be. I am never right, including this book. I was in shock when the antagonist was revealed!! Complete disbelief!!
Kol and Nova were so good for each other. They were both able to trust in other people and heal again. Sometimes trauma bonding helps in relationships, and that was proven in this story. I am so glad that this couple was able to find their HEA with each other! Looking forward to the next couple in this series!!
Thank you to Edelweiss, the author, and Bloom Books for the opportunity to read and review this title!
Author: Catherine Cowles
Series: Starlight Grove, 2
Format: Edelweiss ebook
Genre: Contemporary, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
POV’s: Nova (FMC) &
What to expect:
*Hurt/Comfort trauma bonding
*Single dad
*Small town, found family
Safety:
No OW/OM drama in the form of jealousy. Some on page violence. Flashbacks of abuse and captivity.
Review:
My favorite part of a Catherine Cowles book is guessing who the bad guy will be. I am never right, including this book. I was in shock when the antagonist was revealed!! Complete disbelief!!
Kol and Nova were so good for each other. They were both able to trust in other people and heal again. Sometimes trauma bonding helps in relationships, and that was proven in this story. I am so glad that this couple was able to find their HEA with each other! Looking forward to the next couple in this series!!
Thank you to Edelweiss, the author, and Bloom Books for the opportunity to read and review this title!
May 10, 2026
I swear Catherine Cowles puts like catnip in these books as I just devour them within a day!
Give me five more please and thank you.
If you didn’t know or have seen from my previous revised Catherine Cowles has become a favourite author. From her characters, to her story’s and just how she writes her books.
The phrase - she writes it I reads it comes to mind, I will forever pick her books up.
Ok onto the review- I adored book one but this for me surpassed it. From the storyline (leaving kinda off from book one) to the characters, the tension, the way the book had me guessing and gasping in equal measures. Catherine Cowles just sucks you into her characters world to a point where you feel part of the family. And I really wanna be part of the Archer family so badly.
Nova has been through it all, she’s wanting to feel something but also feels too much after her ordeal. Kol Archer has become a new favourite - shall we say Daddy character 👀👀 he would lay his life down for his daughter and family but add Nova into that and hot damn.
This book was like catnip to me and I read VERY quickly. I can’t help it. It’s like an obsession I needed to know what was happening. The way the characters grew as individuals but as a couple too was a favourite of mine. I also love that we got to see more of the Archer brothers - they make me smile!
I’m not wishing time away but I need book three now please.
Give me five more please and thank you.
If you didn’t know or have seen from my previous revised Catherine Cowles has become a favourite author. From her characters, to her story’s and just how she writes her books.
The phrase - she writes it I reads it comes to mind, I will forever pick her books up.
Ok onto the review- I adored book one but this for me surpassed it. From the storyline (leaving kinda off from book one) to the characters, the tension, the way the book had me guessing and gasping in equal measures. Catherine Cowles just sucks you into her characters world to a point where you feel part of the family. And I really wanna be part of the Archer family so badly.
Nova has been through it all, she’s wanting to feel something but also feels too much after her ordeal. Kol Archer has become a new favourite - shall we say Daddy character 👀👀 he would lay his life down for his daughter and family but add Nova into that and hot damn.
This book was like catnip to me and I read VERY quickly. I can’t help it. It’s like an obsession I needed to know what was happening. The way the characters grew as individuals but as a couple too was a favourite of mine. I also love that we got to see more of the Archer brothers - they make me smile!
I’m not wishing time away but I need book three now please.
April 19, 2026
Thanks to Catherine Cowles’s team for gifting me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was a wild ride. I’ve only read two of Catherine’s books but I was not expecting the twist on either one. Yall are not ready for this one
I loved Nova and Kol and Skylar, and I thought this was really well done. There were some parts where I thought we might have been moving too fast, but overall I’m obsessed with this group of characters and their stories.
So excited for future books!!!
This was a wild ride. I’ve only read two of Catherine’s books but I was not expecting the twist on either one. Yall are not ready for this one
I loved Nova and Kol and Skylar, and I thought this was really well done. There were some parts where I thought we might have been moving too fast, but overall I’m obsessed with this group of characters and their stories.
So excited for future books!!!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
holy crap the villain in this really shocked me
April 21, 2026
Thank you to Catherine Cowles for the early copy of the book!!
I just want to start off by saying that I am obsessed with this series. As of right now Kole and Nova is my favorite couple of this series.... but who knows where that will go. This Grumpy dad had me loving every moment of their interactions. Nova is such a sweetheart that is trying to make it through each day. I really was struck by how well Catherine Cowles displayed the trauma that they both endured. One thing that I love about this book was how well written this one was and how it didn't want this book to end. I loved it from beginning to end. Another thing that I absolutely loved was how well she did fleshing not only the characters out separately but finding a way to bring the together in the perfect way. I cannot wait for the next book... I will impatiently wait over here until then.
Now the Audio on this one... TOP TIER. This one is a full cast narration and I absolutely love that each of the brothers have their own voice actor that has been consistent since the first book. The cast is perfect and they elevated my reading experience. I cannot wait to keep reading this series.
100% RECOMMEND
Thank you again for this Advanced Audio and Ebook.
I just want to start off by saying that I am obsessed with this series. As of right now Kole and Nova is my favorite couple of this series.... but who knows where that will go. This Grumpy dad had me loving every moment of their interactions. Nova is such a sweetheart that is trying to make it through each day. I really was struck by how well Catherine Cowles displayed the trauma that they both endured. One thing that I love about this book was how well written this one was and how it didn't want this book to end. I loved it from beginning to end. Another thing that I absolutely loved was how well she did fleshing not only the characters out separately but finding a way to bring the together in the perfect way. I cannot wait for the next book... I will impatiently wait over here until then.
Now the Audio on this one... TOP TIER. This one is a full cast narration and I absolutely love that each of the brothers have their own voice actor that has been consistent since the first book. The cast is perfect and they elevated my reading experience. I cannot wait to keep reading this series.
100% RECOMMEND
Thank you again for this Advanced Audio and Ebook.
May 25, 2026
I knew after the events of Across the Vanishing Sky that Into the Fading Twilight was going to be amazing. And it lived up to my expectations! Nova went through so much that we didn't, obviously, see in that first book. The whole first book our main characters were trying to find her. Now it is time for Nova to try to find herself again. We get to see her do that and the journey was fantastic. But really I expect nothing less from Chattering Cowles. Kol Archer...He was perfect. A single dad who has a quirky, loving daughter, Sky. He is a Forest Service Investigator and still on the case trying to figure out if some of the other missing people were attached to Travis. But things start happening because someone doesn't want Nova to move on and he, of course feels protective of her. I loved them growing closer and his protectiveness. I love her interactions with Sky. Sky's was amazing in the first book and she continues to be in this one. Catherine continues to really care about her characters and makes you invested. She grabs a hold of your attention from the very beginning and never lets you go. Now with that ending... I need the next one because I need to now what the deal is with those two!! They have to be next. right. please tell me they're next!
Thank you to Bloom for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to Bloom for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 29, 2026
Please forgive me…
I am a Catherine Cowles lover. I love what she writes. But… this one just didn’t do it for me and I actually put it down for a couple of days because I wasn’t interested.
I loved Nova and Kol, I liked their relationship, I liked their history. For me, there were too many tropes in this and I wasn’t convinced. It felt instalove to me, I felt their relationship didn’t develop like her previous stories. I didn’t get the same step-parent development that we saw with Dex and Owen. I personally think that Nova’s and Kol’s traumatic experiences were enough for this story, and that the single dad trope could’ve been done elsewhere. I wasn’t invested.
I will absolutely continue this series and I’m SO excited for what I think is going to be some fake dating because FAVE!!
Thank you Random House and NetGalley #NetGalley #IntoTheFadingTwilight
I am a Catherine Cowles lover. I love what she writes. But… this one just didn’t do it for me and I actually put it down for a couple of days because I wasn’t interested.
I loved Nova and Kol, I liked their relationship, I liked their history. For me, there were too many tropes in this and I wasn’t convinced. It felt instalove to me, I felt their relationship didn’t develop like her previous stories. I didn’t get the same step-parent development that we saw with Dex and Owen. I personally think that Nova’s and Kol’s traumatic experiences were enough for this story, and that the single dad trope could’ve been done elsewhere. I wasn’t invested.
I will absolutely continue this series and I’m SO excited for what I think is going to be some fake dating because FAVE!!
Thank you Random House and NetGalley #NetGalley #IntoTheFadingTwilight
Read
May 15, 2026‘He was a balance of both—the light and the dark.’
Across the vanishing sky was one of my top reads of this year so far, so I’d been highly anticipating book 2 in this series. Nova and Kol’s story is heavy- given what she’s been through this is to be expected, but check your triggers and make sure you go into this prepared. This is a romantic suspense that in my opinion leans heavily on the suspense element in this book. There were twists and turns I never saw coming and it certainly kept me on my toes!
The way Kol and Nova just get each other is beautiful - ‘Because the darkness doesn’t scare you. Because you lived in it, too.’
Their bond is deep and their relationship blossoms through their shared experiences and trust in each other.
I loved seeing the rest of the Archer family again and am so intrigued by what’s coming next!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
Across the vanishing sky was one of my top reads of this year so far, so I’d been highly anticipating book 2 in this series. Nova and Kol’s story is heavy- given what she’s been through this is to be expected, but check your triggers and make sure you go into this prepared. This is a romantic suspense that in my opinion leans heavily on the suspense element in this book. There were twists and turns I never saw coming and it certainly kept me on my toes!
The way Kol and Nova just get each other is beautiful - ‘Because the darkness doesn’t scare you. Because you lived in it, too.’
Their bond is deep and their relationship blossoms through their shared experiences and trust in each other.
I loved seeing the rest of the Archer family again and am so intrigued by what’s coming next!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
May 1, 2026
3.5⭐️ rounded up!
Did I immediately dive into this book as soon as I was approved on NetGalley? OBVIOUSLY!
I enjoyed Into The Fading Twilight but sadly not as much as Across The Vanishing Sky
Full review to come!
Did I immediately dive into this book as soon as I was approved on NetGalley? OBVIOUSLY!
I enjoyed Into The Fading Twilight but sadly not as much as Across The Vanishing Sky
Full review to come!
Read
April 14, 2026I’m already ready to do my reread 👹👹👹 ITS SO GOOD
April 20, 2026
It’s absolutely crazy how much of a chokehold this family/series has on me. I’m so thankful to get an arc of this book but I need the others like right now.
April 24, 2026
I already knew after reading the first book that this series would be a five star and when I knew who the couple was going to be in this one?????…….obsessed! Kol and Nova will forever be in my heart. The way Catherine wrote their healing journey and her trauma I FELT it. I sobbed and I also laughed and giggled at the banter between her and Kol. They both got the happily ever after that they both deserved! I can’t wait for the next book because I have a feeling it’s going to be messy and if you know who I’m talking about you’ve been dying to know the back story between the next couple.
Want to Read
April 26, 2026I CANNOT WAIT FOR THIS TO COME OUT PLEASE I AM SAT
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
[ARC REVIEW]
- 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
“You’re perfectly imperfect. Because all those things you see as failures only make you more beautiful.”
Just when I think I couldn’t love Catherine Cowles more and then she goes and gives us this beautiful gift of a book. This was the perfect sequel to an already unforgettable series. Nova and Kol’s story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming, these two truly define the definition of soulmates. Such a haunting, inspiring story and you can tell Catherine really put her heart and soul into it.
Nova is an incredibly brave and strong woman, after everything she’s been through she keeps on going no matter what. She never gives up, she tests the limits of her own strength mentally and physically, every single day. Her journey from when we first meet her, to where she is at the end of the book is nothing short of awe-inspiring. She’s determined not to be treated like a victim but she also knows she needs time to heal. Nova is one of those characters you just can’t help but love, she throws herself head first into every situation, she’s got so much fight in her and some people may see her as reckless but she’s just trying to remind herself she’s alive. She kept everyone on their toes but especially Kol, was waiting for her to give that man a heart attack, in the best way of course. She stayed true to who she is and never let anyone take that away from her and I love that for her. So happy that her and Brae managed to get back to a point in their friendship that both are happy and they weren’t putting up false pretences to save the other. Nova just slots into this big found family as if she was always meant to be there. Her relationship with Sky is the sweetest thing in the world, filled my heart with so much joy to see them both build up each other up and love the other with everything they have. Girl power truly wins over all. She had the most amazing story and I’m happy we’ll get snippets of her, Kol and Sky in the next books.
Kol is the self-proclaimed grumpy single dad, but he’s also a guy who will do anything for those he cares about, he’s willing to break every rule he has for Nova. He might be the broodier, quieter brother but he loves fiercely and he makes sure not only Nova knows it but Skylar as-well. He is such an amazing father, he gives everything to Sky and goes above and beyond to make sure that she knows she’s his everything. He’s playing the role of both parents and Sky is the luckiest kid on the planet, he’s set such an incredible example for her and supports her on every, crazy adventure. He spreads himself so thin trying to please everyone else and conquer his misplaced guilt, it breaks my heart that he’s convinced what happened to them as kids is his fault. He takes all of that pain and puts it on his shoulders, Nova really is the bright light in his life to ease that pain. He shows up for Nova in all the quiet ways, he stands by her and supports her, gives her everything she needs even when she doesn’t know how to ask for it. A constant presence at her side and I love him so much for that, the most patient caring man ever. I don’t think I’ll ever have enough words to describe how much I love this man and his slutty forearms, my fave MMC so far! An amazing man that finally gets the happy ending he deserves and I’m so buzzing for him.
Kol and Nova’s relationship will be ingrained into my soul forever, they had this all-consuming connection that made them so finely attuned to each other, that they didn’t even need words to know how the other was feeling. Two halves of the same person, while completely different in most ways they definitely had a kinship in the way that they both needed control of a situation. I absolutely adored how they were each willing to give that up to the other to show how much they loved and trusted each other. It’s a true gift to be able to put your entire trust into another person like that. To know in your heart and soul that they’ll never hurt you, Kol would rather walk through fire barefoot than see Nova hurt again and the same goes for Nova with Kol. They have this immediate connection but it never felt rushed, it felt like they had been waiting their entire lives for the other person to walk into their world and become it in its entirety. It was so amazing to see them both push each other out their comfort zones, without being overbearing. The way it was Nova hyping up Kol and telling him the things he needed to hear instead of it just being Kol doing it with Nova, it was a refreshing switch. Never have I ever came across a couple more meant for each other than these two, I honestly believe I’ll think of Nova and Kol’s story for the rest of my life. So unbelievably proud of these two fictional characters I’ll never meet.
Just taking a minute to talk about how miss Skylar was the true diva of the show, if I have kids one day and the turn out to be like Sky then I’ll be the happiest parent on earth. She was a delight, the happiest little soul but also a chaotic, sassy princess who kept everyone on their toes. Definitely wise beyond her years and so well-rounded for her age, it’s a true testament to Kol’s parenting and I think she’s definitely my favourite kid from a Catherine Cowles book. She steals the spotlight with her fair wings and camo outfit, she made Nova feel right at home and I hope she gets all the sundaes in the world in the future.
So excited to see where the rest of this crazy family takes us. The dynamic between the Archer brothers is so fun and wholesome, glad they’re all still so close after what happened to them as kids. You really start to see all of their individual quirks popping up throughout the books and their personalities are truly shining in this one. Obsessed with any and all crumbs we can get about them before their own books. Love this rag-tag group of people and their hot sauce obsession so much !!
Another day another phenomenal edition to an already amazing series, what a continuation and I am so unbelievably excited for the next book! That plot twist will go down in history as one of Catherine’s best. My jaw was literally on the floor !! Never in a million years did that possibility even enter my mind, can’t wait to see everyone’s reactions to this one! Crossing my fingers that Mav’s book is next especially after those tropes were dropped at the end of this book!!
Thank you so much to Catherine Cowles, her team and the Evermore girlies for this eARC !! So grateful for the opportunity to review another one of Catherine’s books <3
Highly recommend if you love;
🩵- Single Dad Romance
🌲- Hurt/Comfort
🩵- Forbidden
🌲- Touch Her & Die
🩵- Roommates to Lovers
- 4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
“You’re perfectly imperfect. Because all those things you see as failures only make you more beautiful.”
Just when I think I couldn’t love Catherine Cowles more and then she goes and gives us this beautiful gift of a book. This was the perfect sequel to an already unforgettable series. Nova and Kol’s story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming, these two truly define the definition of soulmates. Such a haunting, inspiring story and you can tell Catherine really put her heart and soul into it.
Nova is an incredibly brave and strong woman, after everything she’s been through she keeps on going no matter what. She never gives up, she tests the limits of her own strength mentally and physically, every single day. Her journey from when we first meet her, to where she is at the end of the book is nothing short of awe-inspiring. She’s determined not to be treated like a victim but she also knows she needs time to heal. Nova is one of those characters you just can’t help but love, she throws herself head first into every situation, she’s got so much fight in her and some people may see her as reckless but she’s just trying to remind herself she’s alive. She kept everyone on their toes but especially Kol, was waiting for her to give that man a heart attack, in the best way of course. She stayed true to who she is and never let anyone take that away from her and I love that for her. So happy that her and Brae managed to get back to a point in their friendship that both are happy and they weren’t putting up false pretences to save the other. Nova just slots into this big found family as if she was always meant to be there. Her relationship with Sky is the sweetest thing in the world, filled my heart with so much joy to see them both build up each other up and love the other with everything they have. Girl power truly wins over all. She had the most amazing story and I’m happy we’ll get snippets of her, Kol and Sky in the next books.
Kol is the self-proclaimed grumpy single dad, but he’s also a guy who will do anything for those he cares about, he’s willing to break every rule he has for Nova. He might be the broodier, quieter brother but he loves fiercely and he makes sure not only Nova knows it but Skylar as-well. He is such an amazing father, he gives everything to Sky and goes above and beyond to make sure that she knows she’s his everything. He’s playing the role of both parents and Sky is the luckiest kid on the planet, he’s set such an incredible example for her and supports her on every, crazy adventure. He spreads himself so thin trying to please everyone else and conquer his misplaced guilt, it breaks my heart that he’s convinced what happened to them as kids is his fault. He takes all of that pain and puts it on his shoulders, Nova really is the bright light in his life to ease that pain. He shows up for Nova in all the quiet ways, he stands by her and supports her, gives her everything she needs even when she doesn’t know how to ask for it. A constant presence at her side and I love him so much for that, the most patient caring man ever. I don’t think I’ll ever have enough words to describe how much I love this man and his slutty forearms, my fave MMC so far! An amazing man that finally gets the happy ending he deserves and I’m so buzzing for him.
Kol and Nova’s relationship will be ingrained into my soul forever, they had this all-consuming connection that made them so finely attuned to each other, that they didn’t even need words to know how the other was feeling. Two halves of the same person, while completely different in most ways they definitely had a kinship in the way that they both needed control of a situation. I absolutely adored how they were each willing to give that up to the other to show how much they loved and trusted each other. It’s a true gift to be able to put your entire trust into another person like that. To know in your heart and soul that they’ll never hurt you, Kol would rather walk through fire barefoot than see Nova hurt again and the same goes for Nova with Kol. They have this immediate connection but it never felt rushed, it felt like they had been waiting their entire lives for the other person to walk into their world and become it in its entirety. It was so amazing to see them both push each other out their comfort zones, without being overbearing. The way it was Nova hyping up Kol and telling him the things he needed to hear instead of it just being Kol doing it with Nova, it was a refreshing switch. Never have I ever came across a couple more meant for each other than these two, I honestly believe I’ll think of Nova and Kol’s story for the rest of my life. So unbelievably proud of these two fictional characters I’ll never meet.
Just taking a minute to talk about how miss Skylar was the true diva of the show, if I have kids one day and the turn out to be like Sky then I’ll be the happiest parent on earth. She was a delight, the happiest little soul but also a chaotic, sassy princess who kept everyone on their toes. Definitely wise beyond her years and so well-rounded for her age, it’s a true testament to Kol’s parenting and I think she’s definitely my favourite kid from a Catherine Cowles book. She steals the spotlight with her fair wings and camo outfit, she made Nova feel right at home and I hope she gets all the sundaes in the world in the future.
So excited to see where the rest of this crazy family takes us. The dynamic between the Archer brothers is so fun and wholesome, glad they’re all still so close after what happened to them as kids. You really start to see all of their individual quirks popping up throughout the books and their personalities are truly shining in this one. Obsessed with any and all crumbs we can get about them before their own books. Love this rag-tag group of people and their hot sauce obsession so much !!
Another day another phenomenal edition to an already amazing series, what a continuation and I am so unbelievably excited for the next book! That plot twist will go down in history as one of Catherine’s best. My jaw was literally on the floor !! Never in a million years did that possibility even enter my mind, can’t wait to see everyone’s reactions to this one! Crossing my fingers that Mav’s book is next especially after those tropes were dropped at the end of this book!!
Thank you so much to Catherine Cowles, her team and the Evermore girlies for this eARC !! So grateful for the opportunity to review another one of Catherine’s books <3
Highly recommend if you love;
🩵- Single Dad Romance
🌲- Hurt/Comfort
🩵- Forbidden
🌲- Touch Her & Die
🩵- Roommates to Lovers
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Bloom Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Easiest five stars of my life.
This is now my favorite Catherine Cowles novel ever and, in my opinion, one of her most compelling works to date.
I had been anticipating Nova’s story from the very first moment she was mentioned in Across the Vanishing Sky and this book exceeded every expectation I had. The second I finished it, I immediately wanted to start all over again.
This story just hit me on such an emotional level. The whole book as well as Nova’s journey were raw, heartbreaking, and deeply moving. There was something about her character that pulled me in from the beginning and because of that I felt completely invested in this book. Watching her navigate her trauma and slowly reclaim her life was incredibly powerful.
What made it even more special was seeing her do that alongside Kol, broody single father and forest investigator who felt fiercely protective of Nova from the very beginning and that with his quiet strength, patience, and unwavering respect became the perfect safe place for her to heal, grow, and find herself again.
I absolutely loved them together. Sometimes I struggle to feel fully invested in a CC romance when there isn’t much tension between the main characters, but this time I was completely captivated by their relationship. What stood out most was the mutual trust, respect and consent woven into every aspect of their dynamic. How, even though Nova was the one carrying the most visible trauma, healing and vulnerability easily flowed both ways.
The parallel of Kol seeking Nova’s permission to touch her during the day while Nova sought his at night was perfection to me.
Also... the moment he offered to let himself be tied up so that Nova could be the one in control??
Deep sigh while fanning myself because the second I read the word "rope" I just about lost my mind.
I did NOT expect this book to get as kinky as it did, but man did I love every second of it.
And still, apart from it being INSANELY hot, I loved how those elements were used to deepen the emotional connection between them and to highlight the vulnerability they were both willing to show each other.
There were truly so many incredible intimate moments throughout this book and not even all of those were the explicit kind.
Like the scene where Nova asked Kol to cut her hair. Watching her sit there while he gently cut away pieces of her past and she shared memories of her captivity had me in absolute shambles.
And then there was THAT plot twist.
Oh. My. God.
I managed to predict the one in the first book, so I went into this one feeling pretty confident. Catherine humbled me immediately. I never saw this twist coming. The way she set up certain characters to seem destined for a particular role, only to completely turn those expectations upside down was BRILLIANT. I adore plot twists that genuinely surprise you, and this one delivered.
I don't know if it's because this story resonated with me so deeply, but this was the book that really made me appreciate Catherine's writing on a whole new level. The emotional depth here was incredible. We have so many different characters, so many moving pieces, and yet she balanced all of the emotional storylines and the character’s unique personalities beautifully.
And as always, Catherine Cowles remains unmatched when it comes to found family.
The way the Archer brothers show up for each other without hesitation, especially in moments of crisis. The way they would do anything for one another, for their women, and for the women their brothers love.
I appreciated that unwavering loyalty and unconditional support so much.
Even if that's stoic Orion showing up with his chocolate cake.
And now I desperately need Maverick’s book.
This book did such a fantastic job of peeling back his layers and showing that beneath the sarcasm, humor and adrenaline-fueled recklessness is someone carrying wounds of his own. You can already see the conflict, pain and vulnerability lurking underneath the surface and I cannot WAIT to learn even more about him!!!
Easiest five stars of my life.
This is now my favorite Catherine Cowles novel ever and, in my opinion, one of her most compelling works to date.
I had been anticipating Nova’s story from the very first moment she was mentioned in Across the Vanishing Sky and this book exceeded every expectation I had. The second I finished it, I immediately wanted to start all over again.
This story just hit me on such an emotional level. The whole book as well as Nova’s journey were raw, heartbreaking, and deeply moving. There was something about her character that pulled me in from the beginning and because of that I felt completely invested in this book. Watching her navigate her trauma and slowly reclaim her life was incredibly powerful.
What made it even more special was seeing her do that alongside Kol, broody single father and forest investigator who felt fiercely protective of Nova from the very beginning and that with his quiet strength, patience, and unwavering respect became the perfect safe place for her to heal, grow, and find herself again.
I absolutely loved them together. Sometimes I struggle to feel fully invested in a CC romance when there isn’t much tension between the main characters, but this time I was completely captivated by their relationship. What stood out most was the mutual trust, respect and consent woven into every aspect of their dynamic. How, even though Nova was the one carrying the most visible trauma, healing and vulnerability easily flowed both ways.
The parallel of Kol seeking Nova’s permission to touch her during the day while Nova sought his at night was perfection to me.
Also... the moment he offered to let himself be tied up so that Nova could be the one in control??
Deep sigh while fanning myself because the second I read the word "rope" I just about lost my mind.
I did NOT expect this book to get as kinky as it did, but man did I love every second of it.
And still, apart from it being INSANELY hot, I loved how those elements were used to deepen the emotional connection between them and to highlight the vulnerability they were both willing to show each other.
There were truly so many incredible intimate moments throughout this book and not even all of those were the explicit kind.
Like the scene where Nova asked Kol to cut her hair. Watching her sit there while he gently cut away pieces of her past and she shared memories of her captivity had me in absolute shambles.
And then there was THAT plot twist.
Oh. My. God.
I managed to predict the one in the first book, so I went into this one feeling pretty confident. Catherine humbled me immediately. I never saw this twist coming. The way she set up certain characters to seem destined for a particular role, only to completely turn those expectations upside down was BRILLIANT. I adore plot twists that genuinely surprise you, and this one delivered.
I don't know if it's because this story resonated with me so deeply, but this was the book that really made me appreciate Catherine's writing on a whole new level. The emotional depth here was incredible. We have so many different characters, so many moving pieces, and yet she balanced all of the emotional storylines and the character’s unique personalities beautifully.
And as always, Catherine Cowles remains unmatched when it comes to found family.
The way the Archer brothers show up for each other without hesitation, especially in moments of crisis. The way they would do anything for one another, for their women, and for the women their brothers love.
I appreciated that unwavering loyalty and unconditional support so much.
Even if that's stoic Orion showing up with his chocolate cake.
And now I desperately need Maverick’s book.
This book did such a fantastic job of peeling back his layers and showing that beneath the sarcasm, humor and adrenaline-fueled recklessness is someone carrying wounds of his own. You can already see the conflict, pain and vulnerability lurking underneath the surface and I cannot WAIT to learn even more about him!!!
May 30, 2026
✨5 stars✨
Into the Fading Twilight is the second book in Catherine Cowles’ Starlight Grove series, following directly on from Across the Vanishing Sky. I rated the first book four stars and while I really enjoyed that one, this one blew it out of the water for me! The romance was adorable and the suspense element had me guessing right until the end (and I still didn’t manage to guess correctly!).
We start off right where the first book ended with a heavy focus on Nova and her healing journey as she regains control of her life after what Travis put her through. I liked how much time was put into emphasising her struggles with feeling suffocated as the people around her tried to help her. The struggle with feeling like a burden to those who cared about her also felt justified and I enjoyed seeing the work Nova put in to slowly but surely adjust to her new normal. I thought this was all done really well.
However, this book doesn’t just focus on Nova’s healing process but also that of our MMC, Kol. The book dealt with the fact that Kol was the one to find Nova alive in the forest when a lot of people in the town thought she was dead. Furthermore, the book also developed the overarching trauma Kol felt surrounding what happened surrounding his father and brother’s. His guilt about the fact that he wasn’t physically there for his brother’s as he was out when everything transpired was palpable. I enjoyed seeing more of the dynamic between the brothers and I am excited for the future books in this series and I definitely think I know which brother’s book is next, especially after the epilogue in this book. That being said, I like how we saw how both Nova and Kol became a safe place for each other throughout this book.
Nova as an FMC felt incredibly compelling as she came to terms with her newfound freedom and agency after her abduction. I don’t think I’ve read about a FMC who was in a similar situation before, so I enjoyed the importance placed upon her mental health and her growth throughout the book. This can be seen as in the beginning she understandably doesn’t like being touched, even by her best friend Brae. Yet over the course of the book, we see her open up more the physical touch. And while Kol helped in her healing, I loved the emphasis on the fact that Nova had to want this and do this for herself. Nova was a brave, feisty, sometimes reckless FMC that had great banter with Kol and a cute friendship with his daughter Skylar. Even little things like her not being good with directions unless you mention landmarks felt like a real person (and that person is me😂). I really enjoyed reading her perspective.
Now after reading quite a few of Catherine Cowles’ romantic suspense books, you may think it would begin to be easier for me to workout who was behind the goings on. However, I am happy to report that I didn’t guess it… like at all! 🚨🚨Slight spoiler perhaps but I initially thought this character was lining up to be a potential love interest for one the brothers but that’s obviously not the case now so I’m very intrigued to see what happens there!
Overall, this was an amazing romantic suspense book that perfectly built upon what happened in Across the Vanishing Sky and set up for the next three books in this series. Although the next one is definitely youngest brother Maverick and his “arch nemesis turned fiancé” Aster, right? Because I am sat in anticipation for November.
I received an ARC from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Into the Fading Twilight is the second book in Catherine Cowles’ Starlight Grove series, following directly on from Across the Vanishing Sky. I rated the first book four stars and while I really enjoyed that one, this one blew it out of the water for me! The romance was adorable and the suspense element had me guessing right until the end (and I still didn’t manage to guess correctly!).
We start off right where the first book ended with a heavy focus on Nova and her healing journey as she regains control of her life after what Travis put her through. I liked how much time was put into emphasising her struggles with feeling suffocated as the people around her tried to help her. The struggle with feeling like a burden to those who cared about her also felt justified and I enjoyed seeing the work Nova put in to slowly but surely adjust to her new normal. I thought this was all done really well.
However, this book doesn’t just focus on Nova’s healing process but also that of our MMC, Kol. The book dealt with the fact that Kol was the one to find Nova alive in the forest when a lot of people in the town thought she was dead. Furthermore, the book also developed the overarching trauma Kol felt surrounding what happened surrounding his father and brother’s. His guilt about the fact that he wasn’t physically there for his brother’s as he was out when everything transpired was palpable. I enjoyed seeing more of the dynamic between the brothers and I am excited for the future books in this series and I definitely think I know which brother’s book is next, especially after the epilogue in this book. That being said, I like how we saw how both Nova and Kol became a safe place for each other throughout this book.
Nova as an FMC felt incredibly compelling as she came to terms with her newfound freedom and agency after her abduction. I don’t think I’ve read about a FMC who was in a similar situation before, so I enjoyed the importance placed upon her mental health and her growth throughout the book. This can be seen as in the beginning she understandably doesn’t like being touched, even by her best friend Brae. Yet over the course of the book, we see her open up more the physical touch. And while Kol helped in her healing, I loved the emphasis on the fact that Nova had to want this and do this for herself. Nova was a brave, feisty, sometimes reckless FMC that had great banter with Kol and a cute friendship with his daughter Skylar. Even little things like her not being good with directions unless you mention landmarks felt like a real person (and that person is me😂). I really enjoyed reading her perspective.
Now after reading quite a few of Catherine Cowles’ romantic suspense books, you may think it would begin to be easier for me to workout who was behind the goings on. However, I am happy to report that I didn’t guess it… like at all! 🚨🚨Slight spoiler perhaps but I initially thought this character was lining up to be a potential love interest for one the brothers but that’s obviously not the case now so I’m very intrigued to see what happens there!
Overall, this was an amazing romantic suspense book that perfectly built upon what happened in Across the Vanishing Sky and set up for the next three books in this series. Although the next one is definitely youngest brother Maverick and his “arch nemesis turned fiancé” Aster, right? Because I am sat in anticipation for November.
I received an ARC from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
May 4, 2026
“You’re alive. You’re breathing.”
🩵 Small Town Romantic Suspense
🗝️ Single Dad
🩵 Killer on the Loose
🗝️ Found Family
🩵 Hurt Comfort
🗝️ Forbidden Romance
🩵 Tortured Hero
🗝️ Roommates to Lovers
“He just waited, like his superpower was patience.”
It’s safe to say I have found a new favourite Catherine Cowles book. Do I say this about every new book of hers I read? Yes, but in my defence it’s true every single time. Each story makes me fall even more in love with CC’s writing, her complex characters, the incredible found families she creates, the mysteries that will keep you guessing throughout. Every aspect is just so well done and such a joy to read.
The grumpy single dad, whose gruff exterior hides such a sweet side. One he only shows to her daughter, Skylar (who is impossible not to love! She is such a character, I adored her in the first book and even more now). I loved how he slowly starts to open up to Nova, to be vulnerable and face his own trauma. The utter care they show to each other was beautiful, their shared trauma means they can truly understand what the other needs. They are both such strong but vulnerable characters and I absolutely loved following their story.
“I’m safe.”
“That’s right. You make yourself safe.”
I adore the relationships CC creates, Kol and Nova and each other’s safe space. They are so supportive of each other, they really see each other for exactly who they are and love them for it.
I have to admit, one of my all time favourite things to do when starting a Catherine Cowles book is try to guess super early on who did it. This might be the first time I have ever been right! Did I also then guess absolutely everyone else and then convince myself there was no possible way I was right? Yes, but I feel like it should still count a little! Did I still absolutely GASP out loud at that reveal? 100% yes. That twist! Phenomenal.
“And it was a gift in a way: getting to find friendship and sisterhood for a second time.”
I was so looking forward to reading about Nova, her character is so complex and following her journey of healing and rediscovering who she is now after her intense trauma. This book really will make you feel. You’ll be cheering Nova on as she find her fire again, you’ll be sat on the very edge of your seat one moment as the mystery starts to unfold and then laughing as Skylar absolutely charms everyone with her antics with her mini highland cow and goat besties. You’ll be swooning as the romance really blossoms between Kol and Nova, the banter and the flirting between these two was everything! And then you have two best friends who are slowly building up their sister bond again and it was heartbreakingly beautiful.
The little sneak peak of the next couple… oh I am so ready. This series is definitely shaping up to be one of my all time favourites, I can’t wait!
~ Thank you NetGalley, Evermore and Catherine Cowles for this ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Catherine Cowles just knows how to write a small-town romance, and while I absolutely loved Across the Vanishing Sky - and I really did - Into the Fading Twilight has taken the top spot for me.
This was Catherine’s dedication:
Sometimes you just need a hug. This book is for everyone looking for comfort, solace, peace, healing: may you find it in both likely and unlikely places—and consider this my hug to you in book form...
…and what a hug this was!
I knew Kol was going to be my favourite Archer brother (though I’m still holding space for Orion, because it feels like Catherine might be saving the best for last??). A man who says things like:
“I’ve got you.” My eyes burned. Because I knew those words were the truth. He did have me. I didn’t know why the universe had brought him into my path, but I knew I’d be grateful for the rest of my days. “You don’t even know me,” I rasped. Kol didn’t look away. “I know enough.”
His love for his daughter and the broodiness? 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻
And Nova - my girl. After everything she endured, and the strength she still shows, she was incredible. Nova and Kol are perfect for each other. Enough gushing about them, though- let’s talk plot.
From the end of ATVS, I couldn’t wait to learn more about Nova and her time in captivity.
After surviving a kidnapping and spending over a year in captivity under horrific circumstances, Nova ends up moving in with Kol - a protective single dad and Forest Service investigator. As a slow-burn romance starts to develop, it helps Nova begin to work through her trauma… until a very real threat from her past starts creeping back in.
I was curious about where the suspense would come from, given that she’d already been saved. I was also convinced I knew who the villain was. As usual, I was wrong. The mastermind that is CC even had me convinced I knew who the next couple would be -😂 and I was wrong again. Whodunit? Read and find out! I suspect I won’t be the only one who missed this.
Okay but what can you expect from this book:
🩵 Single broody dad
🩵 Roommates to lovers (and a room he built just for her!)
🩵 Small town romanctic susoense
🩵 Hurt/comfort
🩵 Grumpy x Sunshine
🩵 Found family
🩵 Tortured hero
It also includes the usual family group chats, a mini Highland cow, adorable goats, classic small-town quirks, and even a possible Bigfoot sighting.
Would I recommend this book to a friend? Absolutely. Any book by CC delivers the escapism we all need from time to time. There’s yearning, suspense, and an overall feel-good tone. While her books share similar vibes (the poor characters are always unlucky and seem to be targets for bad things 😂), each story is distinct and keeps you hooked for different reasons.
Thank you to Catherine Cowles and Random House UK, Cornerstone | Evermore for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!
This was Catherine’s dedication:
Sometimes you just need a hug. This book is for everyone looking for comfort, solace, peace, healing: may you find it in both likely and unlikely places—and consider this my hug to you in book form...
…and what a hug this was!
I knew Kol was going to be my favourite Archer brother (though I’m still holding space for Orion, because it feels like Catherine might be saving the best for last??). A man who says things like:
“I’ve got you.” My eyes burned. Because I knew those words were the truth. He did have me. I didn’t know why the universe had brought him into my path, but I knew I’d be grateful for the rest of my days. “You don’t even know me,” I rasped. Kol didn’t look away. “I know enough.”
His love for his daughter and the broodiness? 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻
And Nova - my girl. After everything she endured, and the strength she still shows, she was incredible. Nova and Kol are perfect for each other. Enough gushing about them, though- let’s talk plot.
From the end of ATVS, I couldn’t wait to learn more about Nova and her time in captivity.
After surviving a kidnapping and spending over a year in captivity under horrific circumstances, Nova ends up moving in with Kol - a protective single dad and Forest Service investigator. As a slow-burn romance starts to develop, it helps Nova begin to work through her trauma… until a very real threat from her past starts creeping back in.
I was curious about where the suspense would come from, given that she’d already been saved. I was also convinced I knew who the villain was. As usual, I was wrong. The mastermind that is CC even had me convinced I knew who the next couple would be -😂 and I was wrong again. Whodunit? Read and find out! I suspect I won’t be the only one who missed this.
Okay but what can you expect from this book:
🩵 Single broody dad
🩵 Roommates to lovers (and a room he built just for her!)
🩵 Small town romanctic susoense
🩵 Hurt/comfort
🩵 Grumpy x Sunshine
🩵 Found family
🩵 Tortured hero
It also includes the usual family group chats, a mini Highland cow, adorable goats, classic small-town quirks, and even a possible Bigfoot sighting.
Would I recommend this book to a friend? Absolutely. Any book by CC delivers the escapism we all need from time to time. There’s yearning, suspense, and an overall feel-good tone. While her books share similar vibes (the poor characters are always unlucky and seem to be targets for bad things 😂), each story is distinct and keeps you hooked for different reasons.
Thank you to Catherine Cowles and Random House UK, Cornerstone | Evermore for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!
May 6, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Okay so we met these characters in Across the Vanishing Sky and my goddd I couldn’t believe what the FMC went through so getting an ARC for her story was the best news because I wanted to see her again and hopefully healing and in love and I was not disappointed 🙌💕
Plot- The first portion of this book is about healing and recovery. We’re dealing with the aftermath of trauma and how that affects a person and their loved ones. It also had the potential to be problematic as the heroine has a romance with the man who saved her but really it was genuine and emotional and I thought it was a great connection we got to explore despite what brought them together 😩 it was just a pure connection of trust that linked the 2 characters. The mystery element of this book kept me engaged, I always try to guess Catherine’s ‘bad guys’ and I think I’ve been right once 😂 always such good twists and this one was no different, I was absolutely gobsmacked at the reveal. The idea of a copycat or possibly Travis not being dead was so interesting and there were so many suspicious characters that I was flip flopping with my guesses throughout 🤦🏻♀️ and was nowhere close to getting it right 🤯
Characters- Nova was so brave and headstrong! After everything she had faced, watching her learn to live again and take back her life was life-affirming. I loved seeing her tease and laugh and breathe easier because she really is a supernova 🫶 “I need a hug” scene broke me 😭
Kol was exactly the person Nova needed to feel safe as he is the protector, the dad, a family man and just a genuinely wonderful and loving human. He understands the darkness Nova has lived through and isn’t afraid to tackle her nightmares with her as she helps him alleviate guilt from his own past.
Skylar is always the standout character in these books and she is the hope you have for your own child to be as unapologetically herself because she knows she is loved by the Archers. Her tutus and combat boots perfectly encapsulate her wild child soul and it allowed Nova to let down walls too. She’s also so freaking funny!
This is a slow burn compared to some of Catherine’s other books and was handled with so much love and care. It was a wonderful story of healing, and finding love in the face of that and after that epilogue I cannot wait for the next one 🙌
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Okay so we met these characters in Across the Vanishing Sky and my goddd I couldn’t believe what the FMC went through so getting an ARC for her story was the best news because I wanted to see her again and hopefully healing and in love and I was not disappointed 🙌💕
Plot- The first portion of this book is about healing and recovery. We’re dealing with the aftermath of trauma and how that affects a person and their loved ones. It also had the potential to be problematic as the heroine has a romance with the man who saved her but really it was genuine and emotional and I thought it was a great connection we got to explore despite what brought them together 😩 it was just a pure connection of trust that linked the 2 characters. The mystery element of this book kept me engaged, I always try to guess Catherine’s ‘bad guys’ and I think I’ve been right once 😂 always such good twists and this one was no different, I was absolutely gobsmacked at the reveal. The idea of a copycat or possibly Travis not being dead was so interesting and there were so many suspicious characters that I was flip flopping with my guesses throughout 🤦🏻♀️ and was nowhere close to getting it right 🤯
Characters- Nova was so brave and headstrong! After everything she had faced, watching her learn to live again and take back her life was life-affirming. I loved seeing her tease and laugh and breathe easier because she really is a supernova 🫶 “I need a hug” scene broke me 😭
Kol was exactly the person Nova needed to feel safe as he is the protector, the dad, a family man and just a genuinely wonderful and loving human. He understands the darkness Nova has lived through and isn’t afraid to tackle her nightmares with her as she helps him alleviate guilt from his own past.
Skylar is always the standout character in these books and she is the hope you have for your own child to be as unapologetically herself because she knows she is loved by the Archers. Her tutus and combat boots perfectly encapsulate her wild child soul and it allowed Nova to let down walls too. She’s also so freaking funny!
This is a slow burn compared to some of Catherine’s other books and was handled with so much love and care. It was a wonderful story of healing, and finding love in the face of that and after that epilogue I cannot wait for the next one 🙌
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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