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The Goat Next Door
One impulsive decision changes everything.
A quiet small town gets turned upside down.
And a grumpy firefighter finds himself falling for the human equivalent of a natural disaster.
Ember:
One massive lottery win and a totally random impulse buy later, I’m the proud owner of a goat farm. Except the town thinks I’m a walking disaster, especially Brooks, my grump of a neighbor. We clash, we banter, and he’s constantly catching me in some absurd, hay-covered jam. But between bakery shifts and charming his daughter, the irritation in his eyes is starting to look suspiciously like heat.
Brooks:
Ember hit town like a glitter bomb. She’s loud, reckless, and entirely too bright for her own good. I’m a single dad just trying to keep my fences upright, but she’s made it her mission to turn my quiet life into a circus. She’s a complication I didn’t ask for, yet somehow, she’s the only one I want to keep around. I’m tired, I’m grumpy, and I’m definitely not falling for the woman who treats common sense like a polite suggestion. I’m just waiting for the next disaster so I can be the one to save her.
The banter gets sharper.
The tension gets hotter.
And suddenly saving her stops feeling like a burden… and starts feeling like the only thing he wants to do.
A quiet small town gets turned upside down.
And a grumpy firefighter finds himself falling for the human equivalent of a natural disaster.
Ember:
One massive lottery win and a totally random impulse buy later, I’m the proud owner of a goat farm. Except the town thinks I’m a walking disaster, especially Brooks, my grump of a neighbor. We clash, we banter, and he’s constantly catching me in some absurd, hay-covered jam. But between bakery shifts and charming his daughter, the irritation in his eyes is starting to look suspiciously like heat.
Brooks:
Ember hit town like a glitter bomb. She’s loud, reckless, and entirely too bright for her own good. I’m a single dad just trying to keep my fences upright, but she’s made it her mission to turn my quiet life into a circus. She’s a complication I didn’t ask for, yet somehow, she’s the only one I want to keep around. I’m tired, I’m grumpy, and I’m definitely not falling for the woman who treats common sense like a polite suggestion. I’m just waiting for the next disaster so I can be the one to save her.
The banter gets sharper.
The tension gets hotter.
And suddenly saving her stops feeling like a burden… and starts feeling like the only thing he wants to do.
- GenresSmall Town Romance
390 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 29, 2026
About the author
Soldera Krauze
4 books27 followersHi! I'm Soldera, and I write romance because it's far more socially acceptable than meddling in other people's love lives.
My books are full of banter, chemistry, stubborn characters, and emotional damage that eventually comes with a warranty (also known as a happily ever after). I firmly believe that every fictional man can be fixed with enough character development, and every manuscript can be improved by deleting at least three unnecessary uses of the word "just."
When I'm not writing, I'm reading, pretending not to be procrastinating by "researching," or adding more books to my TBR like it's a competitive sport.
Thanks for stopping by! I hope you find a story you love—and if one of my books keeps you up way past your bedtime, I'd like to apologize... but I probably won't.
My books are full of banter, chemistry, stubborn characters, and emotional damage that eventually comes with a warranty (also known as a happily ever after). I firmly believe that every fictional man can be fixed with enough character development, and every manuscript can be improved by deleting at least three unnecessary uses of the word "just."
When I'm not writing, I'm reading, pretending not to be procrastinating by "researching," or adding more books to my TBR like it's a competitive sport.
Thanks for stopping by! I hope you find a story you love—and if one of my books keeps you up way past your bedtime, I'd like to apologize... but I probably won't.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 29, 2026
3.5⭐️ if you’re looking for a fun filled time with endless banter and an easy going plot - then this is absolutely the book for you.
When Soldera wrote this is your classic Hallmark movie and it couldn’t be even more spot on and got me out of the huge slump I was in because it’s just an easy going read.
Ember our FMC won the lottery on a huge whim and decides do you know what? I’m going to buy this beat up run down farm in the middle of no where, but what she doesn’t know this farm comes with a steamy, single dad neighbour.
I had a mixture of emotions reading this - sad, happy, annoyed, and that’s what makes a book so worth the read because when an author can communicate through paper and words to feel something to the reader they’ve done an incredible job.
I was very skeptical of Ember at the start (as an introverted person) she’s loud bubbly and I think she would absolutely try to post a glitter bomb mailer to make my day brighter. But once I got to understand her and see how other characters react to her it was so sad. Just judging by looks alone. But the way she flourished throughout the book was so beautiful to see and the softness from others.
My frustration was purely just the fact that Kevin or Kevis got in the way of any intimacy I thought was going to happen, but it was so comical.
I think if you’re looking for a real in depth character development with layers of plot this isn’t it, but what you will absolutely adore from this is the way it makes you feel and uplifts you.
Soldera what is it with you and writing just insane epilogues!
Thank you so much for the EARC Soldera! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When Soldera wrote this is your classic Hallmark movie and it couldn’t be even more spot on and got me out of the huge slump I was in because it’s just an easy going read.
Ember our FMC won the lottery on a huge whim and decides do you know what? I’m going to buy this beat up run down farm in the middle of no where, but what she doesn’t know this farm comes with a steamy, single dad neighbour.
I had a mixture of emotions reading this - sad, happy, annoyed, and that’s what makes a book so worth the read because when an author can communicate through paper and words to feel something to the reader they’ve done an incredible job.
I was very skeptical of Ember at the start (as an introverted person) she’s loud bubbly and I think she would absolutely try to post a glitter bomb mailer to make my day brighter. But once I got to understand her and see how other characters react to her it was so sad. Just judging by looks alone. But the way she flourished throughout the book was so beautiful to see and the softness from others.
My frustration was purely just the fact that Kevin or Kevis got in the way of any intimacy I thought was going to happen, but it was so comical.
I think if you’re looking for a real in depth character development with layers of plot this isn’t it, but what you will absolutely adore from this is the way it makes you feel and uplifts you.
Soldera what is it with you and writing just insane epilogues!
Thank you so much for the EARC Soldera! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 25, 2026
Thank you to the author for this advanced copy to review!
The banter in this book was exactly what I needed to read right now! It was equal parts funny, heartwarming, and lovely!
I don’t think there was a single character I didn’t love.
If you need a hallmark movie with some spice delivered to you in book form, I suggest you go ahead and pre order this one ❤️
The banter in this book was exactly what I needed to read right now! It was equal parts funny, heartwarming, and lovely!
I don’t think there was a single character I didn’t love.
If you need a hallmark movie with some spice delivered to you in book form, I suggest you go ahead and pre order this one ❤️
July 29, 2026
You get a goat! 🐐 And you get a goat! 🐐
At first, I was confused how you would make a book about a goat into a romance (a romance about people not goats although TBD if Kevin ever finds love) but the author did it and in a funny and lovable way. This book is everything I didn’t know I needed and more!
Emmy, The FMC is bold, bubbly and hilarious with a side of sass and glitter and you can’t help but love her. She knows exactly what she wants and that is Brooks. She wins the lottery, buys a goat farm (hi Kevin!) and moves to the small town where she just happens to live beside and annoy the towns hot and single fire chief.
Brooks the MMC is a hunky but grumpy, a single dad and fireman and doesn’t know what he wants except to keep his daughter (and his heart) safe. He’s an ass at times but he’s a lovable ass. He’s easily forgiven when he takes off his fire cap…and his clothes.
I love how the Emmy was witty and flirty without being mean to Brooks the “hot neighbor” even though he acts annoyed by her. ALL their interactions felt real and authentic. Sloooooooow burn but oh so worth it! The ending had me tearing up in a happy way.
The author writes characters so brilliantly they feel like real people in how they speak and act. You are sad you have to leave them when the book is over but your heart is a little fuller for getting to know them. ❤️
Thank you, to the author, Soldera, for the arc and the opportunity to read this wonderful and funny story. 🐐💖
At first, I was confused how you would make a book about a goat into a romance (a romance about people not goats although TBD if Kevin ever finds love) but the author did it and in a funny and lovable way. This book is everything I didn’t know I needed and more!
Emmy, The FMC is bold, bubbly and hilarious with a side of sass and glitter and you can’t help but love her. She knows exactly what she wants and that is Brooks. She wins the lottery, buys a goat farm (hi Kevin!) and moves to the small town where she just happens to live beside and annoy the towns hot and single fire chief.
Brooks the MMC is a hunky but grumpy, a single dad and fireman and doesn’t know what he wants except to keep his daughter (and his heart) safe. He’s an ass at times but he’s a lovable ass. He’s easily forgiven when he takes off his fire cap…and his clothes.
I love how the Emmy was witty and flirty without being mean to Brooks the “hot neighbor” even though he acts annoyed by her. ALL their interactions felt real and authentic. Sloooooooow burn but oh so worth it! The ending had me tearing up in a happy way.
The author writes characters so brilliantly they feel like real people in how they speak and act. You are sad you have to leave them when the book is over but your heart is a little fuller for getting to know them. ❤️
Thank you, to the author, Soldera, for the arc and the opportunity to read this wonderful and funny story. 🐐💖
July 29, 2026
♾️/ 5 ⭐️
SOLDERA HAS DONE IT AGAIN!
i was hooked from the first page—the banter, chemistry, THE GOATS..all of it was amazing!
what to expect:
🐐 accidental millionaire fmc
💚 broody, grumpy fire fighter chief single dad
🐐 a goat farm
💚 healthy co-parenting
🐐 grumpysunshine in the most lorelai gilmore & luke danes way possible
💚 small-town rom-com
🐐 age gap (6 years; 25 & 31)
now, where do i begin?
oh, right—with the quotes that made me giggle, cry, kick my feet, & scream.
quotes:
“i don’t know what i’m doing, but i’m doing it loudly.”— ember
— ember, i feel you. ‘cause most of the time i don’t know what i’m doing, but i definitely know that i’m doing it loudly.
“we raised you to be brave, glittery, and slightly alarming. don’t disappoint us.”—ember’s mom and dad
— her parents are the most funniest people i’ve ever read about if i’m being honest, i love them
“1 ☆ the tall man refused to share his sandwich. unacceptable.”—goats on yelp
..now, i know that goats are animals; and therefore, can’t talk, but..the goats are absolutely hilarious 😌
“man secretly in love with his disaster of a neighbor. see also: idiot.”—crossword clue
— brooks, don’t deny the fact that you love emmy—go get your girl
those were the quotes at the beginning of the chapters of the following: 5, 7, 8, & 12, which always had me laughing.
now, onto..even more quotes, because i tend to highlight WAYYY too much when it comes to doing reviews.
“birdhouse—glitter, noodles, and all. a small, messy piece of her left behind. and for once, i let it stay.”
— brb sobbing, brooks, you deserve your happy ending, you grumpy, hot, fire fighter chief
“there’s something holy about being known in ordinary ways. the exact sound of your footsteps. the way you take your coffee. which pocket you hide your hands in when you’re scared.”—ember
— oh, ember. we all yearn to be understood, & one day, hopefully we will get that certain someone who understands us.
“6 down: what brooks refuses to admit he feels (4 letters).”—crossword hints
— brooks, go get your girl. please & thank you!
“daddy says adults fix things. but emmy fixes moods too.”—sophie
— she’s too precious 🥹🥹
“if i act normal long enough, maybe i’ll believe i am.”—ember
— oh, ember. how i relate to you. this was one of the many quotes that had me tearing up.
“ember is sparkly. daddy needs sparkly.”—sophie
— that he does, sophie. now..why don’t you go tell your daddy that he needs his glitterbomb of ember forever?
“what’s the matter, ember?” i tease, letting a slow smirk spread across my face. “did you run out of witty, bratty remarks?”
— DADDY ALERT 🚨 I REPEAT: DADDY ALRET 🚨
“you’re shaking,” i mock. “tell me, emmy. does your body ache because of the humidity, or because you’re waiting for me to finally quit talking and just bend you over this counter and show you exactly what you’ve been begging for?”
— where can i find my own brooks? asking for a friend..
“you want it, don’t you?” i murmur. “you want me to drag these straps down and show you exactly what i want to do to a mouthy little city girl like you. you want to feel every single inch of me. you want me to fill you up until you’re crying, until you can’t think about anything but the way my body feels inside yours.” “yes,” she breathes. i smile, pulling my hand away just as she leans in, leaving her clutching at empty air. i watch the frustration spark in her eyes—the raw, needy ache i’ve been building in her all morning. “patience, emmy,” i smile. “try not to ruin the finish on this table while you’re busy daydreaming about me.”
— BROOKS MF LAWSON 😩
i’m going to lose my mind, i think. and it’s going to be the best damn thing that’s ever happened to me.
— yes, brooks. yes it is.
now, i have a few highlights, regarding chapter 31 & a few from 32 which had me full on sobbing.
so, i’m not gonna add quotes from those chapters because, let’s be honest..i highlighted pretty much the entirety of both chapters.
but chapter 31 & 32 did indeed make me cry.
this woman is going to kill me slowly.
— brooks, respectfully, go get your girl. now please.
“i’m right here,” i whisper, the room completely silent around us except for the sound of the rain against the glass. “show me how to fix it.”
— brb, sobbing (again). i love them too much, your honor.
“damn, you were prepared, huh?” “i was a scout, emmy,” he says. “i’m always prepared for the things i want the most.”
— no comment, i’m melting into this review as i giggle over a single dad fire fighter 🫠
i have spent my whole life fighting fires, only to fall in love with the one thing that survives after the flames. an ember.
— awwwh, i’m still crying. brooks, you grumpy (soft) german shepherd 🥹🥹
“nothing dramatic happened after that. they just kept waking up beside each other.”—author’s note
— that they did, ‘cause they got their forever happy ending 🥹❤️🩹
this book was everything to me, and i can’t wait for unmanageable & whatever comes next from soldera !!
and yes, i will be getting a physical copy for my shelf.
SOLDERA HAS DONE IT AGAIN!
i was hooked from the first page—the banter, chemistry, THE GOATS..all of it was amazing!
what to expect:
🐐 accidental millionaire fmc
💚 broody, grumpy fire fighter chief single dad
🐐 a goat farm
💚 healthy co-parenting
🐐 grumpysunshine in the most lorelai gilmore & luke danes way possible
💚 small-town rom-com
🐐 age gap (6 years; 25 & 31)
now, where do i begin?
oh, right—with the quotes that made me giggle, cry, kick my feet, & scream.
quotes:
“i don’t know what i’m doing, but i’m doing it loudly.”— ember
— ember, i feel you. ‘cause most of the time i don’t know what i’m doing, but i definitely know that i’m doing it loudly.
“we raised you to be brave, glittery, and slightly alarming. don’t disappoint us.”—ember’s mom and dad
— her parents are the most funniest people i’ve ever read about if i’m being honest, i love them
“1 ☆ the tall man refused to share his sandwich. unacceptable.”—goats on yelp
..now, i know that goats are animals; and therefore, can’t talk, but..the goats are absolutely hilarious 😌
“man secretly in love with his disaster of a neighbor. see also: idiot.”—crossword clue
— brooks, don’t deny the fact that you love emmy—go get your girl
those were the quotes at the beginning of the chapters of the following: 5, 7, 8, & 12, which always had me laughing.
now, onto..even more quotes, because i tend to highlight WAYYY too much when it comes to doing reviews.
“birdhouse—glitter, noodles, and all. a small, messy piece of her left behind. and for once, i let it stay.”
— brb sobbing, brooks, you deserve your happy ending, you grumpy, hot, fire fighter chief
“there’s something holy about being known in ordinary ways. the exact sound of your footsteps. the way you take your coffee. which pocket you hide your hands in when you’re scared.”—ember
— oh, ember. we all yearn to be understood, & one day, hopefully we will get that certain someone who understands us.
“6 down: what brooks refuses to admit he feels (4 letters).”—crossword hints
— brooks, go get your girl. please & thank you!
“daddy says adults fix things. but emmy fixes moods too.”—sophie
— she’s too precious 🥹🥹
“if i act normal long enough, maybe i’ll believe i am.”—ember
— oh, ember. how i relate to you. this was one of the many quotes that had me tearing up.
“ember is sparkly. daddy needs sparkly.”—sophie
— that he does, sophie. now..why don’t you go tell your daddy that he needs his glitterbomb of ember forever?
“what’s the matter, ember?” i tease, letting a slow smirk spread across my face. “did you run out of witty, bratty remarks?”
— DADDY ALERT 🚨 I REPEAT: DADDY ALRET 🚨
“you’re shaking,” i mock. “tell me, emmy. does your body ache because of the humidity, or because you’re waiting for me to finally quit talking and just bend you over this counter and show you exactly what you’ve been begging for?”
— where can i find my own brooks? asking for a friend..
“you want it, don’t you?” i murmur. “you want me to drag these straps down and show you exactly what i want to do to a mouthy little city girl like you. you want to feel every single inch of me. you want me to fill you up until you’re crying, until you can’t think about anything but the way my body feels inside yours.” “yes,” she breathes. i smile, pulling my hand away just as she leans in, leaving her clutching at empty air. i watch the frustration spark in her eyes—the raw, needy ache i’ve been building in her all morning. “patience, emmy,” i smile. “try not to ruin the finish on this table while you’re busy daydreaming about me.”
— BROOKS MF LAWSON 😩
i’m going to lose my mind, i think. and it’s going to be the best damn thing that’s ever happened to me.
— yes, brooks. yes it is.
now, i have a few highlights, regarding chapter 31 & a few from 32 which had me full on sobbing.
so, i’m not gonna add quotes from those chapters because, let’s be honest..i highlighted pretty much the entirety of both chapters.
but chapter 31 & 32 did indeed make me cry.
this woman is going to kill me slowly.
— brooks, respectfully, go get your girl. now please.
“i’m right here,” i whisper, the room completely silent around us except for the sound of the rain against the glass. “show me how to fix it.”
— brb, sobbing (again). i love them too much, your honor.
“damn, you were prepared, huh?” “i was a scout, emmy,” he says. “i’m always prepared for the things i want the most.”
— no comment, i’m melting into this review as i giggle over a single dad fire fighter 🫠
i have spent my whole life fighting fires, only to fall in love with the one thing that survives after the flames. an ember.
— awwwh, i’m still crying. brooks, you grumpy (soft) german shepherd 🥹🥹
“nothing dramatic happened after that. they just kept waking up beside each other.”—author’s note
— that they did, ‘cause they got their forever happy ending 🥹❤️🩹
this book was everything to me, and i can’t wait for unmanageable & whatever comes next from soldera !!
and yes, i will be getting a physical copy for my shelf.
July 26, 2026
OMG when I tell you this book felt like a warm cozy hug, I have no words, my jaw is on the floor, it’s exactly like diving into a Hallmark Movie or taking a stroll in Stars Hollow, the ambiance was fun, chaotic and cozy in the best way, this book was fast paced and beautifully written, the character development was incredible, the FMC Emmy stole my heart from the very first line, I truly loved how she was unapologetically herself, bubbly and happy and what some people in town would call “too much” (they are wrong, she was perfect!), don’t even get me started on our MMC Brooks I loved how he was grumpy and closed off with everyone except his daughter Sophie and before he even realized it with Emmy, the banter between the two of them and their chemistry was off the charts, the tension and slow burn had me wanting to know what happened next immediately, the side characters were incredible specially Sophie as a 5 year old she was so perceptive and added so much to the story, she made Brooks softer and kept him vulnerable, I also adored Kevin or Kevis the goat he stole my heart from the very first BAAAAAA he knew just how to break the tension and keep our characters humbled. Last but certainly not least I loved the character growth the way Emmy stayed true to herself but also learned her self-worth made me feel proud of her, she stood her ground and refused to accept anything less than what she deserved.
Favorite Quotes:
🐐“You want to know a secret, Sophie? Being brave isn’t about not being scared. It’s about being scared but doing the right thing anyway.”
🚒“I’m going to lose my mind, I think. And it’s going to be the best damn thing that ever happened to me.”
🐐“I feel like such an idiot. I spent so much energy bracing for you to leave that I forgot to actually ask you to stay.”
If you love small town romances, grumpy x sunshine, yearning, found family, single dad romances then this is the book for you! Everything Soldera writes I love! She has quickly become one of my auto buy / read Authors and I can’t wait for Unmanageable! Thank you so much to the Author for such an amazing story that will forever have a piece of my heart! 🐐💕🚒
Favorite Quotes:
🐐“You want to know a secret, Sophie? Being brave isn’t about not being scared. It’s about being scared but doing the right thing anyway.”
🚒“I’m going to lose my mind, I think. And it’s going to be the best damn thing that ever happened to me.”
🐐“I feel like such an idiot. I spent so much energy bracing for you to leave that I forgot to actually ask you to stay.”
If you love small town romances, grumpy x sunshine, yearning, found family, single dad romances then this is the book for you! Everything Soldera writes I love! She has quickly become one of my auto buy / read Authors and I can’t wait for Unmanageable! Thank you so much to the Author for such an amazing story that will forever have a piece of my heart! 🐐💕🚒
September 8, 2026
3.5⭐️
Let’s start with saying that Soldera is a master of writing, already at the beginning of her writing journey as an indie author ❤️
Uncoachable was her first book and I literally read the book in about 2 days.
Now… TGND was a somewhat different story!
I really loved the thought behind the book, the characters and all the side characters that brought the story together. It really was one big family created in less than 400 pages, which is an insanely impressive thing to do for a stand-alone and I don’t think many people can do it like Soldera did.
But, I did expect the story to become somewhat different than what it eventually was. I honestly think that it was a little bit too often mentioned that the ‘big age gap’ (6 years) was something that was scandalous, which it wasn’t. I also think that brooks mentioned too much that he couldn’t do the relationship because of leaving them behind if something went wrong, which I understand completely and is part of his trauma, but for me it was a bit too much…
Overall, I did enjoy the story and it’s an excellent story to read through. I can’t wait to see what Soldera writes anymore, because one thing she can do as one of the best? It’s writing yearning men.
Let’s start with saying that Soldera is a master of writing, already at the beginning of her writing journey as an indie author ❤️
Uncoachable was her first book and I literally read the book in about 2 days.
Now… TGND was a somewhat different story!
I really loved the thought behind the book, the characters and all the side characters that brought the story together. It really was one big family created in less than 400 pages, which is an insanely impressive thing to do for a stand-alone and I don’t think many people can do it like Soldera did.
But, I did expect the story to become somewhat different than what it eventually was. I honestly think that it was a little bit too often mentioned that the ‘big age gap’ (6 years) was something that was scandalous, which it wasn’t. I also think that brooks mentioned too much that he couldn’t do the relationship because of leaving them behind if something went wrong, which I understand completely and is part of his trauma, but for me it was a bit too much…
Overall, I did enjoy the story and it’s an excellent story to read through. I can’t wait to see what Soldera writes anymore, because one thing she can do as one of the best? It’s writing yearning men.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars
This man. 🫡
I am so incredibly honored to have had the opportunity to read this book before its release, and I can confidently say that Soldera’s writing is incredible. I literally devoured this book.
> “You’re shaking,” I mock. “Tell me, Emmy. Does your body ache because of the humidity, or because you’re waiting for me to finally quit talking and just bend you over this counter and show you exactly what you’ve been begging for?”
SORRY???
I also LOVED the relationship between Sophie and Emmy. They are both such bubbly, lovable characters, and I fell in love with them almost immediately. Their relationship was so fun to read, and I loved watching their relationship develop throughout the book. 🥹
I would 100% recommend this book to everyone who loves a funny love story with a man that YEARNSSSSS, I cannot wait for everyone else to read this book.
You did amazing girl. 🩷
This man. 🫡
I am so incredibly honored to have had the opportunity to read this book before its release, and I can confidently say that Soldera’s writing is incredible. I literally devoured this book.
> “You’re shaking,” I mock. “Tell me, Emmy. Does your body ache because of the humidity, or because you’re waiting for me to finally quit talking and just bend you over this counter and show you exactly what you’ve been begging for?”
SORRY???
I also LOVED the relationship between Sophie and Emmy. They are both such bubbly, lovable characters, and I fell in love with them almost immediately. Their relationship was so fun to read, and I loved watching their relationship develop throughout the book. 🥹
I would 100% recommend this book to everyone who loves a funny love story with a man that YEARNSSSSS, I cannot wait for everyone else to read this book.
You did amazing girl. 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I finished reading The Goat Next Door by Soldera Krauze, and I absolutely loved it!
Let's break it down:
🐐 The Goat Next Door is a small-town rom-com featuring a chaotic city girl, a grumpy fire chief, twelve goats, banter, tension, trauma, and found family.
🐐 Our MMC: Brooks Lawson
The Fire Chief of Suncrest Hollow is the definition of controlled, serious, grumpy, and organised. He keeps his cards close to his chest and his walls firmly in place.
He's a single father to five-year-old Sophie, leads the town's emergency services, and carries the weight of far more responsibilities than anyone should have to shoulder alone.
🐐 Our FMC: Ember "Emmy"
Emmy is chaos incarnate. She's a glitter bomb ready to explode at any moment—witty, funny, and... did I mention chaotic? 😂
Everything changes when Emmy wins the lottery and, on a whim (because that's her default mode), buys a goat farm in a small town in the middle of nowhere. She packs up her life and leaves New York in search of the peace and quiet of rural living.
Little does she know that life on a farm isn't nearly as peaceful as she imagined... especially when there's a hot, grumpy fire chief living right next door, and Kevin the goat demanding attention.
🐐 The writing
Soldera Krauze's writing pulled me in from the very first chapter. The humour landed perfectly, the banter felt effortless, and Soldera knew exactly when to make me laugh and when to tug at my heartstrings. I also loved how every character had a distinct voice, and even the side characters felt like fully developed people rather than background filler. This town genuinely felt alive, and I found myself becoming just as attached to the community as I was to the main characters.
🐐 The plot
The story was incredibly enjoyable, though the middle slowed down a little for me. A few of the conflicts took longer to resolve than I would have liked, and I found myself wanting to jump into the pages and have a word with a few characters 😅
That said, everything felt true to the characters, and by the time I reached the final chapters, the emotional payoff made the journey worthwhile.
🐐 The ending
The final few chapters completely won me over.
What I loved most about the ending was that it stayed true to the characters. Nobody became someone else overnight, and the emotional payoff felt earned because of it.
The epilogue was the perfect goodbye, and if you happen to get the physical book with the bonus content... read every single page.
Trust me.
🐐 Final thoughts
This was such a heartwarming romance filled with humour, lovable characters, emotional moments, adorable goats, and a beautiful found family.
While it wasn't a perfect five-star read for me, it was incredibly close. It made me laugh, frustrated me in all the right places, and by the end, it had me crying happy tears.
If you're looking for a romance that perfectly balances comedy, heart, healing, and family, I'd definitely recommend giving The Goat Next Door a chance.
I finished reading The Goat Next Door by Soldera Krauze, and I absolutely loved it!
Let's break it down:
🐐 The Goat Next Door is a small-town rom-com featuring a chaotic city girl, a grumpy fire chief, twelve goats, banter, tension, trauma, and found family.
🐐 Our MMC: Brooks Lawson
The Fire Chief of Suncrest Hollow is the definition of controlled, serious, grumpy, and organised. He keeps his cards close to his chest and his walls firmly in place.
He's a single father to five-year-old Sophie, leads the town's emergency services, and carries the weight of far more responsibilities than anyone should have to shoulder alone.
🐐 Our FMC: Ember "Emmy"
Emmy is chaos incarnate. She's a glitter bomb ready to explode at any moment—witty, funny, and... did I mention chaotic? 😂
Everything changes when Emmy wins the lottery and, on a whim (because that's her default mode), buys a goat farm in a small town in the middle of nowhere. She packs up her life and leaves New York in search of the peace and quiet of rural living.
Little does she know that life on a farm isn't nearly as peaceful as she imagined... especially when there's a hot, grumpy fire chief living right next door, and Kevin the goat demanding attention.
🐐 The writing
Soldera Krauze's writing pulled me in from the very first chapter. The humour landed perfectly, the banter felt effortless, and Soldera knew exactly when to make me laugh and when to tug at my heartstrings. I also loved how every character had a distinct voice, and even the side characters felt like fully developed people rather than background filler. This town genuinely felt alive, and I found myself becoming just as attached to the community as I was to the main characters.
🐐 The plot
The story was incredibly enjoyable, though the middle slowed down a little for me. A few of the conflicts took longer to resolve than I would have liked, and I found myself wanting to jump into the pages and have a word with a few characters 😅
That said, everything felt true to the characters, and by the time I reached the final chapters, the emotional payoff made the journey worthwhile.
🐐 The ending
The final few chapters completely won me over.
What I loved most about the ending was that it stayed true to the characters. Nobody became someone else overnight, and the emotional payoff felt earned because of it.
The epilogue was the perfect goodbye, and if you happen to get the physical book with the bonus content... read every single page.
Trust me.
🐐 Final thoughts
This was such a heartwarming romance filled with humour, lovable characters, emotional moments, adorable goats, and a beautiful found family.
While it wasn't a perfect five-star read for me, it was incredibly close. It made me laugh, frustrated me in all the right places, and by the end, it had me crying happy tears.
If you're looking for a romance that perfectly balances comedy, heart, healing, and family, I'd definitely recommend giving The Goat Next Door a chance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you, Soldera, for sending me this ARC! 🤍📚
I didn’t know I needed this type of story until I started reading it! At first, I wasn’t quite sure where it was heading, but after the first few chapters, I was completely hooked.
The FMC quickly became my favourite character. I loved how easy-going she was while still knowing when to stand her ground and demand the respect she deserved. The MMC was another character I couldn’t help but fall in love with. I really appreciated how self-aware he was and how he reflected on the events throughout the story.
The side characters were just as lovable (and yes, the GOATS too 😂🐐). The banter between the main characters was so much fun, and the chemistry and sexual tension??? You could feel it😉
If you’re looking for a lighthearted, small-town romance that feels like a Hallmark movie with great characters and banter, you’ll definitely want to pick this up when it’s released.
It’s safe to say Soldera is becoming one of those authors whose books I’ll read without even checking the blurb. ✨
Favourite quotes 🤍
“But understanding a man’s trauma doesn’t mean you let him walk all over your lawn without a pass.”
“I have spent my whole life fighting fires, only to fall in love with the one thing that survives after the flames. Ember.” 🫶
I didn’t know I needed this type of story until I started reading it! At first, I wasn’t quite sure where it was heading, but after the first few chapters, I was completely hooked.
The FMC quickly became my favourite character. I loved how easy-going she was while still knowing when to stand her ground and demand the respect she deserved. The MMC was another character I couldn’t help but fall in love with. I really appreciated how self-aware he was and how he reflected on the events throughout the story.
The side characters were just as lovable (and yes, the GOATS too 😂🐐). The banter between the main characters was so much fun, and the chemistry and sexual tension??? You could feel it😉
If you’re looking for a lighthearted, small-town romance that feels like a Hallmark movie with great characters and banter, you’ll definitely want to pick this up when it’s released.
It’s safe to say Soldera is becoming one of those authors whose books I’ll read without even checking the blurb. ✨
Favourite quotes 🤍
“But understanding a man’s trauma doesn’t mean you let him walk all over your lawn without a pass.”
“I have spent my whole life fighting fires, only to fall in love with the one thing that survives after the flames. Ember.” 🫶
August 18, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. And I don't even like romcoms!
Emmy wins the lottery and on a whim, decides to buy a goat farm in the country. Sight unseen. Upon arriving, she meets her grumpy neighbour, the local fire chief and single dad, Brookes. Then she enters her new house and it's an absolute disaster. It may as well be condemned.
Emmy starts flirting with Brookes right away and he's all flusters and entirely out of his depth. A friendship builds and he helps her get her house liveable while secretly loving the flirtatious banter. When thing start to heat up, Emmy realises there is a whole other passionate side to Brookes that no one would ever guess is just under the surface. But he has baggage.
Too scared to take the step into a relationship, he ends it before it's really started and devastates Emmy. Gone is the bubbly girl full of glitter and in it's place is a heartbroken woman who is barely managing to get through her days.
Brooks realises his mistake and wants her back but she turns him away.
This books made my laugh and cry and had me feeling every emotion in between. The author has an excellent writing style and articulates the story perfectly. You feel every emotion they do and feel like you're really there with them.
Emmy wins the lottery and on a whim, decides to buy a goat farm in the country. Sight unseen. Upon arriving, she meets her grumpy neighbour, the local fire chief and single dad, Brookes. Then she enters her new house and it's an absolute disaster. It may as well be condemned.
Emmy starts flirting with Brookes right away and he's all flusters and entirely out of his depth. A friendship builds and he helps her get her house liveable while secretly loving the flirtatious banter. When thing start to heat up, Emmy realises there is a whole other passionate side to Brookes that no one would ever guess is just under the surface. But he has baggage.
Too scared to take the step into a relationship, he ends it before it's really started and devastates Emmy. Gone is the bubbly girl full of glitter and in it's place is a heartbroken woman who is barely managing to get through her days.
Brooks realises his mistake and wants her back but she turns him away.
This books made my laugh and cry and had me feeling every emotion in between. The author has an excellent writing style and articulates the story perfectly. You feel every emotion they do and feel like you're really there with them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2026
Received as an ARC
5 stars!
This book had me giggling and kicking my feet like a teenager from the get go! Soldera has done it again, she writes characters and their relationships SO well! The banter is equally swoon worthy AND hilarious - but relatable. Soldera knows exactly when to make you laugh, when to make you swoon and when to get right into your chest and yank at your heart.
IF you're looking for a cosy funny read, with a teeeeeeny tiny little frustrating heartbreak where Brooks is being a stupid selfish man-child, lots of glitter, girlhood, pastries and goats (can't forget the goats!) then this book is absolutely for you!
The goat next door is a small town (literally everyone is in everyone's business) rom-com where a chaotic city girl moves into a dilapidated goat farm after winning 12M on the lottery on a whim, because lets face it everything Emmy does isn't completely thought through! Enter hot neighbour! Brooks is the level headed, very serious, single Dad, towns fire chief. He finds himself subconsciously helping Ember to repair her barn/house to save her from causing literal damage/danger to herself, his 'property line' and the townsfolk.
5 stars!
This book had me giggling and kicking my feet like a teenager from the get go! Soldera has done it again, she writes characters and their relationships SO well! The banter is equally swoon worthy AND hilarious - but relatable. Soldera knows exactly when to make you laugh, when to make you swoon and when to get right into your chest and yank at your heart.
IF you're looking for a cosy funny read, with a teeeeeeny tiny little frustrating heartbreak where Brooks is being a stupid selfish man-child, lots of glitter, girlhood, pastries and goats (can't forget the goats!) then this book is absolutely for you!
The goat next door is a small town (literally everyone is in everyone's business) rom-com where a chaotic city girl moves into a dilapidated goat farm after winning 12M on the lottery on a whim, because lets face it everything Emmy does isn't completely thought through! Enter hot neighbour! Brooks is the level headed, very serious, single Dad, towns fire chief. He finds himself subconsciously helping Ember to repair her barn/house to save her from causing literal damage/danger to herself, his 'property line' and the townsfolk.
August 29, 2026
So I’m not usually a romance reader, but apparently this was exactly the kind of book I needed & I didn’t even know it! 😍
This was such a fun, cosy, feel good read with the perfect mix of small town chaos, humour, romance & spice! I absolutely loved Emmy. She’s bubbly, chaotic, unapologetically herself & just genuinely lovable. Brooks was the perfect grumpy counterpart, & their banter, chemistry & tension were 🤌🏻. Watching their relationship develop was SO much fun. 🥰 The side characters were brilliant too, especially Sophie, the bitch & stitch knitting club ladies, Marge from the bakery & of course… THE GOATS. 😂🐐 Kevin was PERFECTION! (I definitely want my own goat farm now 🤣)
There were plenty of moments that had me laughing, swooning & getting right in my feels. Exactly what I needed! And if you’re buying the physical book, DO NOT skip the bonus content. That last one had me in my feels. 😭 iykyk
Safe to say this has made me rethink my “I’m not really a romance reader” stance. Give me lovable characters, ridiculous goats & brilliant banter & apparently I’m sold. 😂
Absolutely loved this one. ❤️🐐 And will definitely be picking up Soldera's other books!
This was such a fun, cosy, feel good read with the perfect mix of small town chaos, humour, romance & spice! I absolutely loved Emmy. She’s bubbly, chaotic, unapologetically herself & just genuinely lovable. Brooks was the perfect grumpy counterpart, & their banter, chemistry & tension were 🤌🏻. Watching their relationship develop was SO much fun. 🥰 The side characters were brilliant too, especially Sophie, the bitch & stitch knitting club ladies, Marge from the bakery & of course… THE GOATS. 😂🐐 Kevin was PERFECTION! (I definitely want my own goat farm now 🤣)
There were plenty of moments that had me laughing, swooning & getting right in my feels. Exactly what I needed! And if you’re buying the physical book, DO NOT skip the bonus content. That last one had me in my feels. 😭 iykyk
Safe to say this has made me rethink my “I’m not really a romance reader” stance. Give me lovable characters, ridiculous goats & brilliant banter & apparently I’m sold. 😂
Absolutely loved this one. ❤️🐐 And will definitely be picking up Soldera's other books!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Goat Next Door completely stole my heart.
Emmy is honestly the biggest ray of sunshine. She brought so much warmth, laughter, and chaos in the best possible way, and I couldn't help but adore her from the very beginning.
Brook was everything I wanted in a book boyfriend, but seeing him as a devoted dad made me love him even more. His relationship with his daughter was so wholesome and added so much heart to the story.
The banter between Emmy and Brook was absolute perfection. Their chemistry was effortless, funny, flirty, and had me smiling every time they were together. Watching their relationship grow felt so natural.
This book had the perfect balance of humour, romance, and emotional moments, with just the right amount of spice. It's one of those feel-good romances that leaves you with a huge smile on your face.
If you love: 🐐 Small-town romance
☀️ Sunshine heroine
👨👧 Single dad
💬 Top-tier banter
❤️ Slow-burn chemistry
🌶️ A little spice
...then you need to pick this one up. I already miss Emmy, Brook, and their little world. 💚
Emmy is honestly the biggest ray of sunshine. She brought so much warmth, laughter, and chaos in the best possible way, and I couldn't help but adore her from the very beginning.
Brook was everything I wanted in a book boyfriend, but seeing him as a devoted dad made me love him even more. His relationship with his daughter was so wholesome and added so much heart to the story.
The banter between Emmy and Brook was absolute perfection. Their chemistry was effortless, funny, flirty, and had me smiling every time they were together. Watching their relationship grow felt so natural.
This book had the perfect balance of humour, romance, and emotional moments, with just the right amount of spice. It's one of those feel-good romances that leaves you with a huge smile on your face.
If you love: 🐐 Small-town romance
☀️ Sunshine heroine
👨👧 Single dad
💬 Top-tier banter
❤️ Slow-burn chemistry
🌶️ A little spice
...then you need to pick this one up. I already miss Emmy, Brook, and their little world. 💚
August 3, 2026
Ember is such a cute and fun character, you just have to love her. She is chaotic, loud, kind and just lovable. And I also LOVE that she won't take shit from anyone and that she knows how to make a man grovel.
Brooks is the perfect mix of grumpy, kind, brooding and lovable. The way he loves and protects his daughter is just so cute and admirable. But he can be a bit of an overthinker and should learn to communicate better😂
The reason this book isn't getting 5 stars from me is not because it's a bad book, because FAR from it, I did really enjoy it even when I was in a damn reading slump. But I felt like some chapters were a bit dragged out, like it wasn't necessary, which obviously isn't the worse, it's better than too little information🤷🏻♀️ And also Brooks need to learn to communicate because it was just a bit annoying with the back and forth on his part, even though it was valid! But other than that I have no complaints. I even cried during one chapter then went back to laughing😂
Kevin and Sophie is my faves though!
Brooks is the perfect mix of grumpy, kind, brooding and lovable. The way he loves and protects his daughter is just so cute and admirable. But he can be a bit of an overthinker and should learn to communicate better😂
The reason this book isn't getting 5 stars from me is not because it's a bad book, because FAR from it, I did really enjoy it even when I was in a damn reading slump. But I felt like some chapters were a bit dragged out, like it wasn't necessary, which obviously isn't the worse, it's better than too little information🤷🏻♀️ And also Brooks need to learn to communicate because it was just a bit annoying with the back and forth on his part, even though it was valid! But other than that I have no complaints. I even cried during one chapter then went back to laughing😂
Kevin and Sophie is my faves though!
July 31, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SHE HAS DONE IT AGAIN PEOPLE 😭🐐🔥
If you told me a book about a woman winning the lottery, buying a run-down goat farm, and moving next door to a grumpy single dad and firefighter would become one of my favourite comfort reads… I probably would’ve believed you 😂
Emmy was such a fun FMC! She’s bubbly, bold, chaotic, covered in glitter and absolutely impossible not to love.
I especially loved that underneath all that sunshine, there was so much more to her character. Watching her find her place in her new home and with the people around her was honestly so heartwarming. 🥹
And Brooks… sir.
The grumpy, hot, single-dad firefighter next door who is determined to be annoyed by Emmy while she basically bulldozes her way into his life? YES PLEASE. 🔥
Their dynamic was EVERYTHING. The banter, the flirting, the little moments, the tension… I was eating it all up. Their relationship felt so natural, and I loved that the romance had that delicious slow-burn feeling where you’re just desperately waiting for them to finally get it together.
Also, can we talk about the goats?! 🐐 Because somehow Soldera Krauze managed to make a goat farm an integral part of the story and make it ridiculously entertaining.
And Kevin? Kevin deserves his own book!!!!😂
This book genuinely gave me that warm, happy feeling you get from watching a perfect comfort movie.
It gives small town, grumpy/sunshine, single dad, hot firefighter, hilarious banter and Hallmark movie with spice — basically everything I need HAHAHAAH
Is this the book you pick up when you want an incredibly complex plot with 47 layers and a thousand twists? Probably not. But if you want a fun, heartwarming, swoony romance that makes you laugh, melts your heart and gets you out of a reading slump, then absolutely YES.
Soldera, you’ve officially done it again. I need whatever you’re putting in these books because I am OBSESSED. 🐐❤️
Thank you so much for sending me an ARC of The Goat Next Door!
SHE HAS DONE IT AGAIN PEOPLE 😭🐐🔥
If you told me a book about a woman winning the lottery, buying a run-down goat farm, and moving next door to a grumpy single dad and firefighter would become one of my favourite comfort reads… I probably would’ve believed you 😂
Emmy was such a fun FMC! She’s bubbly, bold, chaotic, covered in glitter and absolutely impossible not to love.
I especially loved that underneath all that sunshine, there was so much more to her character. Watching her find her place in her new home and with the people around her was honestly so heartwarming. 🥹
And Brooks… sir.
The grumpy, hot, single-dad firefighter next door who is determined to be annoyed by Emmy while she basically bulldozes her way into his life? YES PLEASE. 🔥
Their dynamic was EVERYTHING. The banter, the flirting, the little moments, the tension… I was eating it all up. Their relationship felt so natural, and I loved that the romance had that delicious slow-burn feeling where you’re just desperately waiting for them to finally get it together.
Also, can we talk about the goats?! 🐐 Because somehow Soldera Krauze managed to make a goat farm an integral part of the story and make it ridiculously entertaining.
And Kevin? Kevin deserves his own book!!!!😂
This book genuinely gave me that warm, happy feeling you get from watching a perfect comfort movie.
It gives small town, grumpy/sunshine, single dad, hot firefighter, hilarious banter and Hallmark movie with spice — basically everything I need HAHAHAAH
Is this the book you pick up when you want an incredibly complex plot with 47 layers and a thousand twists? Probably not. But if you want a fun, heartwarming, swoony romance that makes you laugh, melts your heart and gets you out of a reading slump, then absolutely YES.
Soldera, you’ve officially done it again. I need whatever you’re putting in these books because I am OBSESSED. 🐐❤️
Thank you so much for sending me an ARC of The Goat Next Door!
October 7, 2026
his was such a cute read! It’s the perfect palette cleanser book if you’ve just read something super heavy.
Ember has won the lottery and decides to use the surplus of cash to buy a goat farm. Does she know anything about farming or livestock? Of course not, but she’s down for the challenge.
Once arriving to the farm (in her glitter wrapped truck) she runs into the mailbox of single dad, Brooks. Ember slowly creeps under his grumpy exterior and recruits him and his little girl to help fix the farm up.
She slowly but surely integrates herself into the town, gets a part time job at the bakery, and finally makes friends. This is of course, a love story; but it was also a good lesson that sometimes you have to make a major change to realize what you were missing.
The grovel from Brooks was great and I love that Ember stands up for herself and doesn’t make it easy for him.
I will definitely read more from this author!
Ember has won the lottery and decides to use the surplus of cash to buy a goat farm. Does she know anything about farming or livestock? Of course not, but she’s down for the challenge.
Once arriving to the farm (in her glitter wrapped truck) she runs into the mailbox of single dad, Brooks. Ember slowly creeps under his grumpy exterior and recruits him and his little girl to help fix the farm up.
She slowly but surely integrates herself into the town, gets a part time job at the bakery, and finally makes friends. This is of course, a love story; but it was also a good lesson that sometimes you have to make a major change to realize what you were missing.
The grovel from Brooks was great and I love that Ember stands up for herself and doesn’t make it easy for him.
I will definitely read more from this author!
July 27, 2026
Thank you so much for trusting me with your ARC for The Goat Next Door. I absolutely LOVED this book!
Emmy is a chaotic, impulsive, walking glitter ball and I need her as my friend. Brooks is the single dad, hot neighbour- no other description required. Their banter was fantastic and the tension was delicious!
The goats are one of the best things about this book, especially Kevin- if you know you know. I enjoyed reading about the other characters and really liked the stitch and bitch group. I also really loved the dynamic with the ex, I don’t think I’ve ever seen it written in this way before!
There were so many laugh out loud and feet kicking moments- I spent most of my time with a huge smile on my face whilst reading it. This was a fun, easy, cosy read and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a hallmark movie-esq, heartwarming rom-com.
Emmy is a chaotic, impulsive, walking glitter ball and I need her as my friend. Brooks is the single dad, hot neighbour- no other description required. Their banter was fantastic and the tension was delicious!
The goats are one of the best things about this book, especially Kevin- if you know you know. I enjoyed reading about the other characters and really liked the stitch and bitch group. I also really loved the dynamic with the ex, I don’t think I’ve ever seen it written in this way before!
There were so many laugh out loud and feet kicking moments- I spent most of my time with a huge smile on my face whilst reading it. This was a fun, easy, cosy read and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a hallmark movie-esq, heartwarming rom-com.
August 6, 2026
4.5 stars ⭐️ omg this book, what the heck!!! I adore both Emmy and Brooks and this was the perfect grumpy x sunshine trope. I got so emotionally attached to all the characters, little soph and Kevin the goat was of course my faves and I LOVED the small town romance, this gave me Gilmore girls vibes- so if you love that show you’ll love this book. Please go read this, it’s genuinely the best grumpy x sunshine book I’ve read yet and I don’t normally like that trope, this was perfect and everything I needed. The slow burn was so good and this made me feel seen and I related so much to Ember.
I’m actually honoured I got to receive this book as an arc copy, Soldera is truly one of my new fave authors and I can’t wait to read anything else she’s writing or written! 🫶🏼
I’m actually honoured I got to receive this book as an arc copy, Soldera is truly one of my new fave authors and I can’t wait to read anything else she’s writing or written! 🫶🏼
August 6, 2026
Received as an ARC
What a sweet read!
This felt like summer in a book. It was an easy read that made me laugh and kick my feet.
Something about Soldera’s writing really resonates with me, her writing translates feelings really well. It’s one of the reasons I enjoy her books. I love getting to feel with the characters.
This book follows Ember, or Emmy, while she navigates winning the lottery and moving to a small town. It highlights the struggles of moving to a new town (something I understand all too well) and finding her place there.
Overall, I loved it. Simple. The goats, Emmy’s parents, Sophie, and the stitch and bitch club. They were iconic and helped shape the book into what makes it so memorable to me.
What a sweet read!
This felt like summer in a book. It was an easy read that made me laugh and kick my feet.
Something about Soldera’s writing really resonates with me, her writing translates feelings really well. It’s one of the reasons I enjoy her books. I love getting to feel with the characters.
This book follows Ember, or Emmy, while she navigates winning the lottery and moving to a small town. It highlights the struggles of moving to a new town (something I understand all too well) and finding her place there.
Overall, I loved it. Simple. The goats, Emmy’s parents, Sophie, and the stitch and bitch club. They were iconic and helped shape the book into what makes it so memorable to me.
August 7, 2026
ARC review
This was such an cute small town romance where city girl meets grumpy firefighter 🤭
I absolutely adored Sophie (Brooke’s little daughter) she was giving sassy drama queen girlie and helped fill the story with laughter.
Ember decided to make a fresh start by buying a goat farm in the countryside after living in the city all her life. She is the sunshine that the town needed and thrived with a pink tool set.
Brooke is a solo dad and chief firefighter, he’s stressy and code abiding, but when Ember moves next door and Sophie starts to get attached to Ember he needs to become less grumpy and work out if he can let Ember into his family and his heart.
I absolutely adored this book
This was such an cute small town romance where city girl meets grumpy firefighter 🤭
I absolutely adored Sophie (Brooke’s little daughter) she was giving sassy drama queen girlie and helped fill the story with laughter.
Ember decided to make a fresh start by buying a goat farm in the countryside after living in the city all her life. She is the sunshine that the town needed and thrived with a pink tool set.
Brooke is a solo dad and chief firefighter, he’s stressy and code abiding, but when Ember moves next door and Sophie starts to get attached to Ember he needs to become less grumpy and work out if he can let Ember into his family and his heart.
I absolutely adored this book
August 13, 2026
Review of Advance Copy received from the author
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’m Totes for the Goats 💗
Full disclosure I had the incredible honour of beta reading The Goat Next Door and a fun time was had. Soldera brings us another good time read, this was absolute madness on a page and I was here for every single word.
I laughed…hard, I swooned, I wiggled my toes and was cheering on our main girl Ember from the off. Our leading man Brooks also does not disappoint…I need me one of him in real life 💗 The plot is fabulous and well-paced and the chapter introductions are top tier.
It’s chaotic, it’s hilarious, I guarantee it’s not like anything else you will have read…in all of the good ways. Its your perfect summer read I promise.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’m Totes for the Goats 💗
Full disclosure I had the incredible honour of beta reading The Goat Next Door and a fun time was had. Soldera brings us another good time read, this was absolute madness on a page and I was here for every single word.
I laughed…hard, I swooned, I wiggled my toes and was cheering on our main girl Ember from the off. Our leading man Brooks also does not disappoint…I need me one of him in real life 💗 The plot is fabulous and well-paced and the chapter introductions are top tier.
It’s chaotic, it’s hilarious, I guarantee it’s not like anything else you will have read…in all of the good ways. Its your perfect summer read I promise.
September 1, 2026
First of all, I LOVE LOVE LOVE Emmy!!!!! Is there a better fmc??? No.
She’s whimsical, the brightest ball of sunshine around and unapologetically herself. What more could you want in a fmc????
Brooks is down BAAAAD even if it takes him a while to realise it😂 The way he cares for Sophie and Emmy is just so🥺🥺🥺 I really liked how there was a realistic representation of co-parenting, it shows that things aren’t always complicated.
The found family between the town and Emmy made my heart swell🥹 Emmy deserves all the love 💞💞
It felt like a cute romcom in a book AND I ADORED EVERY BIT OF IT!!!!
She’s whimsical, the brightest ball of sunshine around and unapologetically herself. What more could you want in a fmc????
Brooks is down BAAAAD even if it takes him a while to realise it😂 The way he cares for Sophie and Emmy is just so🥺🥺🥺 I really liked how there was a realistic representation of co-parenting, it shows that things aren’t always complicated.
The found family between the town and Emmy made my heart swell🥹 Emmy deserves all the love 💞💞
It felt like a cute romcom in a book AND I ADORED EVERY BIT OF IT!!!!
September 28, 2026
dnf@18%
Even Hallmark movies have more charm than this.
The banter is forced, unendearing, and downright cumbersome.
Ember is giving ✨ airhead vibes ✨, while Brooks is only barely tolerable.
Overall, it’s just ridiculous dialogue for the sake of dialogue — I didn't want to know more after this.
she smashes her car into his mailbox and when she sees him giving it an exhausted look, her thoughts are:
-
I should probable feel guilty.
Instead, I'm wondering if I have time to reapply lip gloss before he reaches the ..[ ]
𝜗𝜚YEAH NO. JUST NO.
Even Hallmark movies have more charm than this.
The banter is forced, unendearing, and downright cumbersome.
Ember is giving ✨ airhead vibes ✨, while Brooks is only barely tolerable.
Overall, it’s just ridiculous dialogue for the sake of dialogue — I didn't want to know more after this.
she smashes her car into his mailbox and when she sees him giving it an exhausted look, her thoughts are:
-
I should probable feel guilty.
Instead, I'm wondering if I have time to reapply lip gloss before he reaches the ..[ ]
𝜗𝜚YEAH NO. JUST NO.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Right book. Right time. Thank you so much to Soldera for the advanced reader copy of this one and no one is going to be as shocked as her to see my rating or this review! But she truly does deserve it. This book is everything it was marketed to be and more. Hallmark eat your hearts out. The strong, supportive female relationships? The goats? The sexual tension? Tick, tick, tick. I enjoyed every minute of this one.
July 29, 2026
Every time I get an email saying she’s writing a new book for me to beta read I get so excited and this book did not disappoint. It’s chaotic, funny, made me cry in a few places and is full of sarcasm and glitter. Ember is just such a vibe I love her honestly. The goats should also win awards for their impeccable timing and just being amazing. It’s so heart warming and just honestly such a good book xxx
July 29, 2026
*Reviewed as an ARC reader*
This book was so wonderfully written. The chaos of Emmy plus the guarded Brooks just made for chemistry like no other. All the supporting characters were their own person, with their own stories, and I genuinely felt attached to everyone. We love an FMC who is comfortable with herself, and doesn't dull her sparkle.
Huge well done Soldera ❤️
This book was so wonderfully written. The chaos of Emmy plus the guarded Brooks just made for chemistry like no other. All the supporting characters were their own person, with their own stories, and I genuinely felt attached to everyone. We love an FMC who is comfortable with herself, and doesn't dull her sparkle.
Huge well done Soldera ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was the book I didn't know I needed. It was literally a warm hug in a book and I loved it. Such a cosy, feel good story, but still with the right amount of emotional depth.
Soldera, you've done it again!
Soldera, you've done it again!
August 15, 2026
Was this kinda cringe? Yeah hahaha but still fun!!
August 15, 2026
this was such a fun read! i really enjoyed it 🤭 thank you Soldera for sending me this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
in this book we follow Emmy (Ember) & Brooks. Emmy wins the lottery and on a whim decides to buy a goat farm in a small town. and guess what? Brooks is her hot neighbour AND a single dad 😏
Emmy was such a fun character, she was sooo chaotic like literally CHAOS IN HUMAN FORM. but she was soooo bubbly and nice, i felt so seen🥹 Brooks on the other hand is a bit more moody broody grumpy, but very helpful and caring and he has a VERY CUTE little daughter🥹
this really was a fun small town, grumpy x sunshine, single dad, cozy romance book.
at some point in the book i did find the problems / trauma that especially Brooks carried becoming a bit repetitive. it was mentioned a lot and he denied their chemistry for quite a long time and imo i thought Emmy could sometimes be a bittttt too eager and try to hard. hence the 4 stars, but still i enjoyed it!
in this book we follow Emmy (Ember) & Brooks. Emmy wins the lottery and on a whim decides to buy a goat farm in a small town. and guess what? Brooks is her hot neighbour AND a single dad 😏
Emmy was such a fun character, she was sooo chaotic like literally CHAOS IN HUMAN FORM. but she was soooo bubbly and nice, i felt so seen🥹 Brooks on the other hand is a bit more moody broody grumpy, but very helpful and caring and he has a VERY CUTE little daughter🥹
this really was a fun small town, grumpy x sunshine, single dad, cozy romance book.
at some point in the book i did find the problems / trauma that especially Brooks carried becoming a bit repetitive. it was mentioned a lot and he denied their chemistry for quite a long time and imo i thought Emmy could sometimes be a bittttt too eager and try to hard. hence the 4 stars, but still i enjoyed it!
August 27, 2026
Super cute! Felt like a hallmark movie but a little less predictable with some scenes/details!
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