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A Society of Scandal #2
Hers by Summer's End: A Rivals to Lovers Historical Romance
A boxer no proper lady should ever root for…
Drew Sutton has built his reputation with quick fists, quicker smiles, and enough knockouts to keep all of Seattle talking. But while society dismisses him as a rough-edged pugilist, Drew’s true talent lies far from the ring—in cultivating prize-winning blooms. His foremost contender? A loud-mouthed spinster with wild curls and a grin that never fails to send his pulse racing. Their rivalry has always been good sport—until he unthinkingly transforms their private feud into the scandal of the summer. Now it’s war over dahlias, but Drew can’t shake the feeling that the only thing worth winning has nothing to do with horticulture.
A spinster determined to leave him flat on the canvas…
Cecelia Townsend has cultivated her competition with Drew Sutton as carefully as her prize dahlias. There’s something delicious about the man who tends fragile shoots with bruised knuckles, and she’s long enjoyed their harmless flirtation. But when their rivalry becomes the city’s favorite spectator sport—complete with public sparring and brazen wagers—the stakes turn dangerously real. Then there’s the kiss. One reckless, soul-shaking kiss that changes everything. Now Cecelia is consumed by a far more perilous Victory—and the Fighting Florist himself—will be hers by summer’s end.
Drew Sutton has built his reputation with quick fists, quicker smiles, and enough knockouts to keep all of Seattle talking. But while society dismisses him as a rough-edged pugilist, Drew’s true talent lies far from the ring—in cultivating prize-winning blooms. His foremost contender? A loud-mouthed spinster with wild curls and a grin that never fails to send his pulse racing. Their rivalry has always been good sport—until he unthinkingly transforms their private feud into the scandal of the summer. Now it’s war over dahlias, but Drew can’t shake the feeling that the only thing worth winning has nothing to do with horticulture.
A spinster determined to leave him flat on the canvas…
Cecelia Townsend has cultivated her competition with Drew Sutton as carefully as her prize dahlias. There’s something delicious about the man who tends fragile shoots with bruised knuckles, and she’s long enjoyed their harmless flirtation. But when their rivalry becomes the city’s favorite spectator sport—complete with public sparring and brazen wagers—the stakes turn dangerously real. Then there’s the kiss. One reckless, soul-shaking kiss that changes everything. Now Cecelia is consumed by a far more perilous Victory—and the Fighting Florist himself—will be hers by summer’s end.
- GenresNovella
115 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 25, 2026
About the author
Kat Sterling
6 books152 followersKat Sterling is an author of historical romance featuring rebellious heroines and the swoon-worthy heroes who challenge and support them. She splits her time between Atlanta and Bogotá with her brilliant husband. When she’s not writing, she enjoys nature walks, playing videogames, and drinks with friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 26, 2026
4.75 ⭐️
Yeah, this is how you write a novella!
I’m not sure how Kat packed so much heart, warmth and growth in 115 pages but she did it and did it fabulously! This was so much fun.
The romance. Drew and Cecelia are rival horticulturists and create a little bit of a scandal when Drew (who’s also a boxer btw 😏) practically brings their feud public.. and whiles he’s in the ring! The two spend the rest of the summer going head to head in rowboats and spars but something else is simmering underneath 😏 these two were such a delight!! Drew has practically been in love with Cecelia from the day he met her and Cecelia has always had a fondness for Drew but tampered her attraction due to insecurities. They bring out the cheekiness in each other but also the softer side they’ve both not been able to show. Kat injects so much character, humour and life into these two in such a short page count that I was blown away. You know a novella is good when you’re begging for it to be longer when you’re nearing the end 🤷♀️
The sex. Fabulousss, perfect for a novella but also insanely hot. I really enjoyed the fact that Cecelia although inexperienced, is vocal about what she likes during sex and doesn’t shy away when letting Drew know. Drew is so gentle with her and being in his head and seeing how much he longed for Cecelia was excellent.
The writing. This was my first Kat Sterling book and it won’t be my last. Witty and sharp it’s so evident she cares a lot about these two. Although it’s short we get such a good scope of them and their lives outside of the romance which I always love! The dialogue is a little modern but it didn’t bother me at all.
Overall I adored this. I’m off to read Theo and Rosie’s story immediately!!!
August 25, 2026
Kat Sterling has done it again with her new novella, Hers by Summer’s End. It serves as both the second of nine books in the new series A Society of Scandal (all eight other talented authors are tagged here) as well as the second installment in Kat’s His and Hers duology. Set in Washington State in 1909 only weeks before the true historical event Cactus Dahlia Day, Hers by Summer’s End features yearslong rivals: spirited prizefighter Drew Sutton and curvy, sassy spinster Cecelia Townsend. Both are florists/botanists (as is her way, Kat has slyly included a political and etymological rabbit hole within her story). Rivals for years, the two MCs are from vastly different walks of life: Drew is the “fighting florist” of modest means, while Cecelia and her mother live in the well-to-do Queen Anne district. As Cactus Dahlia Day rapidly approaches, however, they realize that their romantic feelings are mutual…but given their backgrounds and circumstances, could it ever last?
This story was quirky and adorable, yet particularly spicy (with a plus-size FMC!). I felt as if I knew the characters, and their witty banter, shy vulnerability, and passionate love scenes were expertly paced. I laughed, teared up, and—history buff that I am—paused more than once to look up a fascinating detail and marvel once again at Kat’s remarkable talent. I’m grateful to have received an advanced reader copy (ARC) of Hers by Summer’s End. It’s out today, and it’s available on Kindle Unlimited!
This story was quirky and adorable, yet particularly spicy (with a plus-size FMC!). I felt as if I knew the characters, and their witty banter, shy vulnerability, and passionate love scenes were expertly paced. I laughed, teared up, and—history buff that I am—paused more than once to look up a fascinating detail and marvel once again at Kat’s remarkable talent. I’m grateful to have received an advanced reader copy (ARC) of Hers by Summer’s End. It’s out today, and it’s available on Kindle Unlimited!
August 28, 2026
STEM MCs: rival botanists
Kat Sterling does an excellent job at pacing and connection in novellas. His by opening day is one of my faves, and this one was really sweet too.
Since novellas don’t really have the time and space for third act breakups, we skip that part, but there is a moment where she jumps to conclusions that felt a little out of left field. That’s where my issue lies, but it was still well paced, and it has the perfect amount of spice for the length of book.
4.5 stars
Kat Sterling does an excellent job at pacing and connection in novellas. His by opening day is one of my faves, and this one was really sweet too.
Since novellas don’t really have the time and space for third act breakups, we skip that part, but there is a moment where she jumps to conclusions that felt a little out of left field. That’s where my issue lies, but it was still well paced, and it has the perfect amount of spice for the length of book.
4.5 stars
August 25, 2026
This was so cute and fun, a perfect little novella about dueling botanists, where the MMC has already fallen and fallen HARD and is just waiting for the FMC to show some signs of interest. It was sexy and witty and just all around charming and sweet.
ARC from author, review is all mine.
ARC from author, review is all mine.
August 26, 2026
This book two in the Society of Scandal series was delightful rivals to lovers class difference historical romance. It was full of humor, witty banter, a bit of scandal, a slow building romance with a bit of steam. The characters were wonderful with good depth. I really enjoyed their engaging and fun journey to happiness and love. The ending was satisfying.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was novella perfection! Fully fleshed MCs, a well-rounded plot, tons of humour and heart, and a fascinating setting! It takes place during Seattle’s 1909 World Fair, and the event’s buzz created a marvellous backdrop for this fantabulous rivals-to-lovers romance.
Cecilia & Andrew
She’s an upper-class spinster – not your usual lithe little lady, but a robust tall sassy force of nature and passionate botanist – and he’s a working-class gardener cum prizefighter – equally unapologetically large, cocky and incredibly kind.
They have the hots for each other – a longstanding crush – but instead of making a move, they cross verbal swords at flower shows where they’re each other’s biggest competition and greatest secret admirer. One day, he accidentally takes their usual barb bluster one step too far (wrong place, wrong crowd) and their good-natured rivalry suddenly turns into local society’s entertainment... and an unexpected friendship.
I adored this story for so many reasons – and these are just a few:
First of all, Cece is my very first heroine I could actually physically identify with – our mindsets are pretty similar too – and it felt wonderful!
The romance was witty, playful, heartwarming and it felt so real. They are both such confident creatures, yet with that endearing nugget of uncertainty when it comes to love. She’s most adorable when riled (or jealous) and he’s real good at kiss-and-make-up (and delicious when grumpy). They know each other so incredibly well, unofficially of course (seriously, it was borderline stalker level), but it made their crush all the more heartfelt. They moved me, and that chalk board thingy... be still my heart! No spoilers, but it was The Swoon!
Then there’s her mom and his cheeky grandad. They depend on our MCs; mom has polio and is bound to a wheelchair (Cece changed her garden especially for her), and grandad is just old (he’s everything to Drew), but nothing stops them from nudging their ducklings in the right direction. It’s all in small gestures, but that love, respect and support were simply beautiful! And the greenhouse trick – go grandad! – bow chicka wow wow!
Cecilia & Andrew
She’s an upper-class spinster – not your usual lithe little lady, but a robust tall sassy force of nature and passionate botanist – and he’s a working-class gardener cum prizefighter – equally unapologetically large, cocky and incredibly kind.
They have the hots for each other – a longstanding crush – but instead of making a move, they cross verbal swords at flower shows where they’re each other’s biggest competition and greatest secret admirer. One day, he accidentally takes their usual barb bluster one step too far (wrong place, wrong crowd) and their good-natured rivalry suddenly turns into local society’s entertainment... and an unexpected friendship.
I adored this story for so many reasons – and these are just a few:
First of all, Cece is my very first heroine I could actually physically identify with – our mindsets are pretty similar too – and it felt wonderful!
The romance was witty, playful, heartwarming and it felt so real. They are both such confident creatures, yet with that endearing nugget of uncertainty when it comes to love. She’s most adorable when riled (or jealous) and he’s real good at kiss-and-make-up (and delicious when grumpy). They know each other so incredibly well, unofficially of course (seriously, it was borderline stalker level), but it made their crush all the more heartfelt. They moved me, and that chalk board thingy... be still my heart! No spoilers, but it was The Swoon!
Then there’s her mom and his cheeky grandad. They depend on our MCs; mom has polio and is bound to a wheelchair (Cece changed her garden especially for her), and grandad is just old (he’s everything to Drew), but nothing stops them from nudging their ducklings in the right direction. It’s all in small gestures, but that love, respect and support were simply beautiful! And the greenhouse trick – go grandad! – bow chicka wow wow!
August 25, 2026
This was such a delightful and fun story. The spirited competition between Cecelia and Drew was as entertaining as watching them slowly fall for each other, and I couldn’t put the book down.
Cecelia Townsend isn’t our typical heroine. She’s tall, not your standard beauty, but she’s determined, sweet, and completely devoted to her flowers—especially her prize dahlias—until Drew Sutton shows up to turn her world upside down.
Drew Sutton, a known pugilist, harbors a surprising gift for cultivating prize-winning blooms. His fiercest competitor happens to be a vocal spinster who constantly challenges him, and he can’t help imagining her sprawled among his flowers while he kisses her senseless. They come from different social worlds, so he knows his feelings should stay hidden. Still, his fascination with her only grows.
I adored how their relationship evolved—from pointed rivals to unlikely friends, and then to something tender and electric once Drew confessed his admiration. Their rivalry was always good-natured fun until one impulsive act brought scandal and turned the summer into a true battle over dahlias. Yet Drew quickly realizes that the only prize he truly wants has nothing to do with horticulture.
These two were perfect together. Their personalities complemented each other beautifully, and their romance was witty, heartfelt, and completely believable. That one reckless, soul-shaking kiss changes everything, and Cecelia soon finds herself fighting for a love that feels inevitable.
What really makes this story stand out is how brilliantly the author writes her characters—with so much heart and realism that they feel like people you could know. Cecelia and Drew’s journey is equal parts tender, funny, and deeply satisfying, and I closed the last page with a big, happy smile.
I received a complimentary advanced copy from the author, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
Cecelia Townsend isn’t our typical heroine. She’s tall, not your standard beauty, but she’s determined, sweet, and completely devoted to her flowers—especially her prize dahlias—until Drew Sutton shows up to turn her world upside down.
Drew Sutton, a known pugilist, harbors a surprising gift for cultivating prize-winning blooms. His fiercest competitor happens to be a vocal spinster who constantly challenges him, and he can’t help imagining her sprawled among his flowers while he kisses her senseless. They come from different social worlds, so he knows his feelings should stay hidden. Still, his fascination with her only grows.
I adored how their relationship evolved—from pointed rivals to unlikely friends, and then to something tender and electric once Drew confessed his admiration. Their rivalry was always good-natured fun until one impulsive act brought scandal and turned the summer into a true battle over dahlias. Yet Drew quickly realizes that the only prize he truly wants has nothing to do with horticulture.
These two were perfect together. Their personalities complemented each other beautifully, and their romance was witty, heartfelt, and completely believable. That one reckless, soul-shaking kiss changes everything, and Cecelia soon finds herself fighting for a love that feels inevitable.
What really makes this story stand out is how brilliantly the author writes her characters—with so much heart and realism that they feel like people you could know. Cecelia and Drew’s journey is equal parts tender, funny, and deeply satisfying, and I closed the last page with a big, happy smile.
I received a complimentary advanced copy from the author, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tropes: rivals to lovers
Steam level: 3
This is best considered a follow-up novella; I recommend reading "His By Opening Day" first.
4.5 stars. What a delightful, sweet HR! Set in early 1900's Seattle, this follows the relationship between Cecelia and Drew, both botanists who have been competing fiercely throughout the state and region to produce the best blooms. They are also somewhat outsiders in their community. Their reputations are well-known but they are not beautiful or genteel by society's standards, and they have insecurities to work through before they can arrive at their HEA.
When this author does what she does best--instill humanity and deep emotion between her characters--this novella absolutely shines. Additionally, the world building and research are first rate. Cecelia's mom and Drew's grandpa are absolute gems, stealing just about every scene they're in. I feel that many authors use characterization shortcuts in their novellas, creating a cast that is standard at best, flat at worst. That is absolutely not the case here. Cecelia is an outspoken, physically robust woman, and Drew is a boxer with a big personality. The scene at the very end in the boxing ring is such a mood lifter it had me smiling long after I finshed reading.
The only issue I had was a bit of difficulty getting into the plot. I didn't read "His by Opening Day" first (I wish I had!) so I had a bit of trouble orienting myself to what exactly was going on in the early scenes. If this novella had been slightly longer, with a prologue that gave more background on the mains' rivalry, this would have been a full 5 stars from me.
Bottom line: there are several excellent HR writers elevating this genre right now, and Kat Sterling is one of them.
This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this novella. Thanks to the author for this opportunity.
Steam level: 3
This is best considered a follow-up novella; I recommend reading "His By Opening Day" first.
4.5 stars. What a delightful, sweet HR! Set in early 1900's Seattle, this follows the relationship between Cecelia and Drew, both botanists who have been competing fiercely throughout the state and region to produce the best blooms. They are also somewhat outsiders in their community. Their reputations are well-known but they are not beautiful or genteel by society's standards, and they have insecurities to work through before they can arrive at their HEA.
When this author does what she does best--instill humanity and deep emotion between her characters--this novella absolutely shines. Additionally, the world building and research are first rate. Cecelia's mom and Drew's grandpa are absolute gems, stealing just about every scene they're in. I feel that many authors use characterization shortcuts in their novellas, creating a cast that is standard at best, flat at worst. That is absolutely not the case here. Cecelia is an outspoken, physically robust woman, and Drew is a boxer with a big personality. The scene at the very end in the boxing ring is such a mood lifter it had me smiling long after I finshed reading.
The only issue I had was a bit of difficulty getting into the plot. I didn't read "His by Opening Day" first (I wish I had!) so I had a bit of trouble orienting myself to what exactly was going on in the early scenes. If this novella had been slightly longer, with a prologue that gave more background on the mains' rivalry, this would have been a full 5 stars from me.
Bottom line: there are several excellent HR writers elevating this genre right now, and Kat Sterling is one of them.
This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this novella. Thanks to the author for this opportunity.
August 29, 2026
This is book two in a multi-author collaboration aiming to highlight the joy of reading historical romance by different authors. Nine books in all. The first two books have been wonderful and a joy to read. I’m looking forward to seeing what other authors will offer. What a fun book this was Miss Cecelia Townsend is not your typical beauty with her gap tooth and long curly hair. She is a large woman standing taller than a lot of the man. Her life work is in the growing of her garden with Cactus Dahlias being her favorite. She lives with her mother in a mansion. She has always been outspoken and when Andrew Sutton a man known in the fighting ring but also a grower of Dahlias think to beat her in the grand showing, Cactus Dahlia Days he’s wrong. They have been rivalry for a while and the banter, and witty talk between them is wonderful. Drew and his grandfather live in a small house which is a world apart from Cecelia. He has been attracted to her since the day he met her but has never let her know. She thinks of him a lot both as a friend and more than she should. When his grandfather and her mother met and hit it off, both were pushing the kids together. What would a romance story been without a nasty villain causes trouble and yup they is one trying to embarrass them. This is a wonderful story full of fun, laughter, secrets finally shared and passion. What a read, I finished it in one setting. Grab a copy and get started you will need some tissue for the tears from laughing and others stuff too. I can’t wait for the next book. Kat always has a way of drawing you in quickly and never letting you leave till the book is finished. You will also love her poor cousin Theo friend of both and his new wife which happens to be Ceceia best friend. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest but long review and am freely giving it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An absolute delight of a novella. Sterling has really mastered the form, giving us fully realized characters and believable emotions and chemistry in this shorter format. Drew and Cecilia are rival...florists (?) who have a big flower contest (??) coming up. And general interest in their floral rivalry is so great it makes the gossip pages in turn of the century Seattle? You know what? Sure.
The important thing is they are rivals, and that there is a class difference (not a huge one) in that Cecilia comes from a more monied family, and Drew from a working class family. However! The most important thing to know is that in addition to being a florist Drew is a boxer. Sterling absolutely knows the job, and if you are going to have a boxer you absolutely have to have a "What he'd give to - no. No. He would not subject a lady like Cecilia to his base, animalistic urges."
There's some lovely stuff here about how two people who feel on the outside of the group. Cecilia is robust and assertive instead of slim and using all the social graces. Drew plays up his charisma and persona as a boxer to gain acceptance "if he wasn't the one people watched...who was he?" Once they come together they are so supportive and accepting of each other. And isn't that the point of romance? Someone who takes what you see as your flaws, and perceives them as strengths, and appreciates you all the more for them? A really lovely read.
Thank you to the author for the arc.
The important thing is they are rivals, and that there is a class difference (not a huge one) in that Cecilia comes from a more monied family, and Drew from a working class family. However! The most important thing to know is that in addition to being a florist Drew is a boxer. Sterling absolutely knows the job, and if you are going to have a boxer you absolutely have to have a "What he'd give to - no. No. He would not subject a lady like Cecilia to his base, animalistic urges."
There's some lovely stuff here about how two people who feel on the outside of the group. Cecilia is robust and assertive instead of slim and using all the social graces. Drew plays up his charisma and persona as a boxer to gain acceptance "if he wasn't the one people watched...who was he?" Once they come together they are so supportive and accepting of each other. And isn't that the point of romance? Someone who takes what you see as your flaws, and perceives them as strengths, and appreciates you all the more for them? A really lovely read.
Thank you to the author for the arc.
August 28, 2026
Thanks to the author for a copy of this short story and this is my freely given opinion.
This is the second story in this multi-author anthology and is a quite cute story based in the US. Drew Sutton is a famed and beloved pugilist known as the Fighting Florist because of his talent and renown in growing prize winning blooms. His chief rival for years is Cecelia Townsend, a bold, forthright spinster who is not afraid to speak her mind or go where she dares, including the men's only club where Drew is fighting, to publicly challenge him before their next flower competition over cactus dahlia.
It is a public rivalry tht disguises a he falls first romance as they play out their rivalry in the public eye, and it becomes a courtship - but is that still to fuel public interest and speculation? Drew knows he and Cecelia, despite their common love of flowers and botany, are a world apart in their backgrounds, but he has secretly loved her for years and now that he has publicly committed to courting her, hopes for it to become real and a starting point for their future, but Cecelia is not sure if what is happening is for show or real.
This was a sweet story with a very feisty heroine and rugged but sweetly charming MMC. How can you not love a man who embraces nurturing nature and appreciates a bold, intelligent woman who grabs and fights for what she wants?
3.75 stars out of 5
This is the second story in this multi-author anthology and is a quite cute story based in the US. Drew Sutton is a famed and beloved pugilist known as the Fighting Florist because of his talent and renown in growing prize winning blooms. His chief rival for years is Cecelia Townsend, a bold, forthright spinster who is not afraid to speak her mind or go where she dares, including the men's only club where Drew is fighting, to publicly challenge him before their next flower competition over cactus dahlia.
It is a public rivalry tht disguises a he falls first romance as they play out their rivalry in the public eye, and it becomes a courtship - but is that still to fuel public interest and speculation? Drew knows he and Cecelia, despite their common love of flowers and botany, are a world apart in their backgrounds, but he has secretly loved her for years and now that he has publicly committed to courting her, hopes for it to become real and a starting point for their future, but Cecelia is not sure if what is happening is for show or real.
This was a sweet story with a very feisty heroine and rugged but sweetly charming MMC. How can you not love a man who embraces nurturing nature and appreciates a bold, intelligent woman who grabs and fights for what she wants?
3.75 stars out of 5
Review of advance copy received from Author
Her’s By Summer’s End
By Kat Sterling
It’s the summer of 1909 and greenhouses and gardens across San Francisco are heating up in anticipation of the Cactus Dahlia Day at the World Fair!
Miss Cecilia Townsend can be blamed for browsing the crowds as she scandalously propositions. The famous Fighting Florist, Drew Sutton, boxer and florist extraordinaire to a dual of their own on an equal playing field: the greenhouse!
Now these two rivals are set to meet head-to-head throughout the summer as anticipation grows for the big Dahlia competition! And with each subsequent get together, this rivalry starts looking more and more like a courtship!
I had so much fun reading this novella! I absolutely loved the idea of rival florist, competing in a fun competition with no menace behind it. Drew and Cecilia are both adorable together, and I audibly squealed when drew let her know in his way how he feels!
This book was fun, unique, and with the perfect amount of steam- I can’t recommend it enough. You don’t want to be late for the Dahlia competition grab this one when it goes on sale tomorrow!
Thank you to author Kat Sterling for the ARC copy.
By Kat Sterling
It’s the summer of 1909 and greenhouses and gardens across San Francisco are heating up in anticipation of the Cactus Dahlia Day at the World Fair!
Miss Cecilia Townsend can be blamed for browsing the crowds as she scandalously propositions. The famous Fighting Florist, Drew Sutton, boxer and florist extraordinaire to a dual of their own on an equal playing field: the greenhouse!
Now these two rivals are set to meet head-to-head throughout the summer as anticipation grows for the big Dahlia competition! And with each subsequent get together, this rivalry starts looking more and more like a courtship!
I had so much fun reading this novella! I absolutely loved the idea of rival florist, competing in a fun competition with no menace behind it. Drew and Cecilia are both adorable together, and I audibly squealed when drew let her know in his way how he feels!
This book was fun, unique, and with the perfect amount of steam- I can’t recommend it enough. You don’t want to be late for the Dahlia competition grab this one when it goes on sale tomorrow!
Thank you to author Kat Sterling for the ARC copy.
August 25, 2026
This novella is SO good!! Longtime rival gardeners Cecilia and Drew are about to go up against each other in the Cactus Dahlia contest at the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition. The book has a great novella premise: the two have made their private rivalry public, which has also exposed their mutual crushes. OH NO. (Oh, yes.)
In addition to the perfect premise, there are so many fun things and quirky historical tidbits. Drew and Cece play the Newlywed Game (except they probably shouldn't expose how well they know each other, considering that they're not courting)! Drew's grandfather participates in Octogenarian Day at the Expo! Cactus Dahlia Day itself has its own mystique. And we all know that greenhouses are the perfect places to tryst, especially when you love flowers as much as these two do.
Speaking of trysting, Drew and Cece are HOT for each other (and not just because they're in that greenhouse). Kat Sterling showcases her deft touch with love scenes yet again. And P.S.: this is a kinda-sorta sequel to His by Opening Day, which we also highly recommend!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novella.
In addition to the perfect premise, there are so many fun things and quirky historical tidbits. Drew and Cece play the Newlywed Game (except they probably shouldn't expose how well they know each other, considering that they're not courting)! Drew's grandfather participates in Octogenarian Day at the Expo! Cactus Dahlia Day itself has its own mystique. And we all know that greenhouses are the perfect places to tryst, especially when you love flowers as much as these two do.
Speaking of trysting, Drew and Cece are HOT for each other (and not just because they're in that greenhouse). Kat Sterling showcases her deft touch with love scenes yet again. And P.S.: this is a kinda-sorta sequel to His by Opening Day, which we also highly recommend!
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novella.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you've read and enjoyed Kat Sterling this will not disappoint, and if you're new to her books this novella is a great place to start!
Set in 1909 Seattle, Cecilia is a spinster who has always stood out physically, and Andrew is a working class prizefighter. Both of them happen to love gardening, and growing dahlias in particular, and a rivalry is born! This was an entertaining, cheeky, and horny romance with a full story packed tightly into a novella. Sure I'd have loved one more chapter, but all of the plot points were there and the rivalry was quickly established so we could move on to the romancing!
I won't spoil anything, but I was lol-ing within the first chapter, and there are some very historical romance-specific moments that I thoroughly loved. I also really enjoy the characters Sterling creates. Women with gumption, and men who are goners for them.
This is part of a multi-author collection but they do not seem connected other than being the same genre, so this absolutely stands alone.
Thank you to the author for an eARC. All opinions are my own.
Set in 1909 Seattle, Cecilia is a spinster who has always stood out physically, and Andrew is a working class prizefighter. Both of them happen to love gardening, and growing dahlias in particular, and a rivalry is born! This was an entertaining, cheeky, and horny romance with a full story packed tightly into a novella. Sure I'd have loved one more chapter, but all of the plot points were there and the rivalry was quickly established so we could move on to the romancing!
I won't spoil anything, but I was lol-ing within the first chapter, and there are some very historical romance-specific moments that I thoroughly loved. I also really enjoy the characters Sterling creates. Women with gumption, and men who are goners for them.
This is part of a multi-author collection but they do not seem connected other than being the same genre, so this absolutely stands alone.
Thank you to the author for an eARC. All opinions are my own.
August 31, 2026
Kat Sterling has packed so much into this lovely novella!
Drew and Cecelia are rival flower show competitors and this story is set in the lead up to Cactus Dahlia Day at the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition. I absolutely loved the idea of a story hung off this setting and Sterling managed to impart so much history and detail around the time as well as keep the story moving.
The relationship between Drew and Cecelia was beautifully developed and we had some lovely, meddling side characters along the way.
The little epistolary pieces at the beginning of each chapter were a also great way for Sterling to move the story along.
If you’re looking for a great novella, Hers By Summer’s End is well worth your time.
I received an advance copy of this book at no charge. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Drew and Cecelia are rival flower show competitors and this story is set in the lead up to Cactus Dahlia Day at the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition. I absolutely loved the idea of a story hung off this setting and Sterling managed to impart so much history and detail around the time as well as keep the story moving.
The relationship between Drew and Cecelia was beautifully developed and we had some lovely, meddling side characters along the way.
The little epistolary pieces at the beginning of each chapter were a also great way for Sterling to move the story along.
If you’re looking for a great novella, Hers By Summer’s End is well worth your time.
I received an advance copy of this book at no charge. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was just delightful. As I've come to expect from Kat Sterling, Hers by Summer's End features charming protagonists, a rompy plot, and witty, rat-a-tat style dialogue; it's basically like reading a screwball comedy, but with much more steam. I really liked the central flower-obsessed couple, whose rivalry barely masks their mutual lust, as well as their meddling family members. I do, however, wish it had been just a touch longer, so that the public aspect of their competition might have been set up a little better; I'm still a touch confused as to why their story became such a sensation in the Seattle society. Despite that, I really enjoyed this novella and had the silliest grin on my face the entire time I was reading it.
Huge thanks to Kat Sterling for the ARC.
Huge thanks to Kat Sterling for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a super cute and quirky (in the best of ways) read. Cecilia is a spinster who loves to garden. She has a rivalry with Drew, a fellow gardener by day- boxer by night. He seems like he will be a cocky and arrogant man at the start, but once the story starts to unfold and you see more of him, Drew is an absolute sweetheart. He is kind, loyal, and not ashamed to fawn over a lady.
Cecilia is a bit eccentric, but she’s comfortable with herself, and that makes her so easy to like. I appreciate that she’s not the epitome of beauty like so many FMCs are. She seems real and relatable.
This story is a great break from the typical HR book. It’s fun and vivacious with fun rivalry and passion. The epilogue was just adorable!🥰
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to be an arc reader!
Cecilia is a bit eccentric, but she’s comfortable with herself, and that makes her so easy to like. I appreciate that she’s not the epitome of beauty like so many FMCs are. She seems real and relatable.
This story is a great break from the typical HR book. It’s fun and vivacious with fun rivalry and passion. The epilogue was just adorable!🥰
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to be an arc reader!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this witty novella. I have been a fan of Kat Sterling’s work for a while and I found this read just as entertaining as the last one I read.
The characters and plot were very well written and I loved the competitive nature between Cecilia and Andrew at the beginning that turned into a romance when they were made to spend time together. There are lovely secondary characters that enhance the main characters and the story.
A lovely lazy afternoon read, two of the secondary characters have their own book too that I am going to read.
I received a special copy from the author for my honest review that I am voluntarily leaving.
The characters and plot were very well written and I loved the competitive nature between Cecilia and Andrew at the beginning that turned into a romance when they were made to spend time together. There are lovely secondary characters that enhance the main characters and the story.
A lovely lazy afternoon read, two of the secondary characters have their own book too that I am going to read.
I received a special copy from the author for my honest review that I am voluntarily leaving.
August 27, 2026
Cecelia Townsend and Andrew Sutton have been adversaries for some time. Their horticultural rivalry is the talk of the town and Cecelia seeks to exploit this as a major flower competition approaches. Andrew agrees and they find themselves in the midst of some underhanded tactics by some of the local society’s elite. Family members also enter into the situation forcing both to examine their feelings whereupon the realisation that they want more becomes apparent.The competition becomes secondary as fate takes a hand. A most entertaining ending to the story will engage the reader. I recommend this book to lovers of this genre.
August 27, 2026
A boxing match, a dahlia competition, and two rival gardeners—the sparks were flying! I loved this little historical romance novella with rivals-to-lovers and opposites attract.
Cecelia and Drew, the Fighting Florist, have been playful rivals for three years, but the Cactus dahlia competition brings their rivalry (and their attraction) to a head. Set during the 1909 World’s Fair in Seattle, this is a quick, easy, and lighthearted read with boxing, wagers, horticulture, and more. I can’t wait to read more from this author. Hers By Summer' End is a gem My full will be at Spoonerreads.com soon.
Cecelia and Drew, the Fighting Florist, have been playful rivals for three years, but the Cactus dahlia competition brings their rivalry (and their attraction) to a head. Set during the 1909 World’s Fair in Seattle, this is a quick, easy, and lighthearted read with boxing, wagers, horticulture, and more. I can’t wait to read more from this author. Hers By Summer' End is a gem My full will be at Spoonerreads.com soon.
August 29, 2026
Absolutely delightful.
This was so beautifully written I could hardly put it down. I loved Cecelia and could relate to many aspects of her personality and choices. A woman like her deserves a man like Drew; strong, secure in his masculinity and completely down bad for her.
I also loved the side characters; the meddling parents, the cameos of Rosie and Theo and all the historical landmarks of Seattle.
While I read this on KU; I still want to thank Kat Sterling for sending me an extra copy just before release day. Now I get to keep these green flag characters forever. Kat, you’re a legend.
This was so beautifully written I could hardly put it down. I loved Cecelia and could relate to many aspects of her personality and choices. A woman like her deserves a man like Drew; strong, secure in his masculinity and completely down bad for her.
I also loved the side characters; the meddling parents, the cameos of Rosie and Theo and all the historical landmarks of Seattle.
While I read this on KU; I still want to thank Kat Sterling for sending me an extra copy just before release day. Now I get to keep these green flag characters forever. Kat, you’re a legend.
Read
August 26, 2026This is my first time reading anything from this author.. and I enjoyed it except it was based in Seattle.. other than that I loved it..
These two characters are from two completely different backgrounds two different worlds but that doesn't mean that love can't happen. Love knows no boundaries..
This book is filled with laughter banter and prizefighting!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the author. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
These two characters are from two completely different backgrounds two different worlds but that doesn't mean that love can't happen. Love knows no boundaries..
This book is filled with laughter banter and prizefighting!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the author. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely adored this story! I thought it was a lot of fun, highly entertaining, and such a sweet romance. I instantly liked Cecelia and Drew and thought their competition with each other was awesome. I loved how they finally admitted their true feelings for one another and felt they made a great couple. Overall, this is a quick, very enjoyable story with wonderful characters and a delightful romance. I highly recommend this book!
August 28, 2026
Cecelia and Drew are instantly likeable, and their fun banter and irresistible rivalry (and attraction) are delicious! More than that, our MCs feel complex and well-rounded, and the depictions of 1900s Seattle society create a wonderful setting for the story to unfold. With a good amount of steam, plenty of fun moments, and memorable characters, the story is both entertaining and well-developed. Who would have thought that prizefighting and botany went well together? Spoiler alter: they do!
September 5, 2026
Fun, flirty, and floral!
I loved the rivals-to-lovers dynamic between Cecelia and Drew - the combination of strong-minded heroine and swoony prizefighter made for some seriously spicy moments!
The historical setting was wonderful too and it was great to branch out from my norm!
A quick, charming romance that packs a punch!💙
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy - all opinions are my own ✨
I loved the rivals-to-lovers dynamic between Cecelia and Drew - the combination of strong-minded heroine and swoony prizefighter made for some seriously spicy moments!
The historical setting was wonderful too and it was great to branch out from my norm!
A quick, charming romance that packs a punch!💙
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy - all opinions are my own ✨
August 25, 2026
Hers by Summer’s End was an absolutely delightful novella. I enjoyed every page. Drew and Cecelia make a perfect pair, and Kat Sterling does an excellent job of making me buy their history before the beginning of the novella, so it doesn’t have an insta-love feel to it. This was an excellent afternoon’s read!
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
August 26, 2026
Sweet summer romance. Rival gardeners to lovers except he was a lover all the way.
The first chapter was intense - botanical challenges, prize fights - but I read the rest of it very quickly. These two are adorable and so are the secondary characters.
Another Kat Sterling hit.
Thanks to the author for an ARC, these are my honest opinions.
The first chapter was intense - botanical challenges, prize fights - but I read the rest of it very quickly. These two are adorable and so are the secondary characters.
Another Kat Sterling hit.
Thanks to the author for an ARC, these are my honest opinions.
September 1, 2026
Rivalry at it's Best!
The rivalry between Cecelia Townsend and Drew Sutton didn't take much to ignite into a fiery love leading to their happy every after.
I loved their banter, their revenge tactics and the 'games' they played to keep the interest of the general public.
This was a wonderful love story between two characters who had the same goals in mind and I loved every moment of it.
The rivalry between Cecelia Townsend and Drew Sutton didn't take much to ignite into a fiery love leading to their happy every after.
I loved their banter, their revenge tactics and the 'games' they played to keep the interest of the general public.
This was a wonderful love story between two characters who had the same goals in mind and I loved every moment of it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I would like to thank the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a delightful surprise!
A botanical rivalry that is changed for good at the World’s Faire.
I loved the tension between the two, and the fact that he is already head over heels for her. I also loved learning about the world’s faire and Chicago.
This was a delightful surprise!
A botanical rivalry that is changed for good at the World’s Faire.
I loved the tension between the two, and the fact that he is already head over heels for her. I also loved learning about the world’s faire and Chicago.
August 26, 2026
Such a fun romantic read. Full of rivalry, banter, unexpected love, and two loveable characters. Two seemly different personalities, different classes, and different backgrounds find out that they aren't so different after all. I loved it
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