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Where Love Grows
When two broken men look to each other for help, an unexpected romance blooms.
Stephen’s home, deep in the heart of the Welsh valleys, suits his reclusive nature. However, as he recovers from illness, he’s struggling to manage alone. As nature reclaims the land he’s poured his heart into cultivating, he becomes increasingly unhappy. His only outlet is his blog, where he documents the decline of the garden that had been his pride and joy.
Luke is more used to a concrete jungle. He was a high-flyer, living and working in London, until addiction sent him into free fall. Now on the road to recovery, he still wants to make some changes, but he’s unsure where to find the purpose and fulfilment he craves.
A mutual acquaintance suggests Luke visits Stephen to help him out for a while, and a seed of hope is planted. From prickly beginnings, shoots of friendship emerge, blossoming into a deeper connection when they act on their mutual attraction.
This was only ever supposed to be a temporary arrangement, and soon Stephen will be able to manage on his own again. But both men need each other in ways they’re afraid to admit. If their love is going to last for more than one season, they’ll need to find the courage to be honest.
This book is a standalone read with a satisfying happy ending.
Stephen’s home, deep in the heart of the Welsh valleys, suits his reclusive nature. However, as he recovers from illness, he’s struggling to manage alone. As nature reclaims the land he’s poured his heart into cultivating, he becomes increasingly unhappy. His only outlet is his blog, where he documents the decline of the garden that had been his pride and joy.
Luke is more used to a concrete jungle. He was a high-flyer, living and working in London, until addiction sent him into free fall. Now on the road to recovery, he still wants to make some changes, but he’s unsure where to find the purpose and fulfilment he craves.
A mutual acquaintance suggests Luke visits Stephen to help him out for a while, and a seed of hope is planted. From prickly beginnings, shoots of friendship emerge, blossoming into a deeper connection when they act on their mutual attraction.
This was only ever supposed to be a temporary arrangement, and soon Stephen will be able to manage on his own again. But both men need each other in ways they’re afraid to admit. If their love is going to last for more than one season, they’ll need to find the courage to be honest.
This book is a standalone read with a satisfying happy ending.
259 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2019
96 people are currently reading
585 people want to read
About the author
Jay Northcote
54 books1,654 followersI don't hang out on Goodreads much, so if you'd like to connect with me then Twitter, Facebook or an email is usually best :) All my contact details are on my website.
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
September 29, 2019
I was a little nervous going into this story. I didn't realize what illness our young man had battled and survived. GBS, otherwise known as Guillain-Barré syndrome, is a rare yet horrid illness. I had never heard about it until the doctors were able to slap a name on the condition that put my grandfather in the ER one snowy winter night. I was very close to my Gramps and I spent every evening in the hospital until he lost his battle with GBS, nearly three months after his first symptom appeared. This was over thirteen years ago but I can still recall with vivid clarity how my ornery gramps became a prisoner in his own body. He was the most stubborn and yet strongest man I've ever met. And he knew that out of all of the family, I would follow in his footsteps and be the same...for him. So after every test reveled more heartbreaking news, he knew to ask me (I became pretty damn good at reading lips) to tell them to remove his trach.
Sorry. I've gone off course a bit. But what I mean to say is, this is personal to me and I wasn't sure how I would handle the story. But I shouldn't have worried so much. I took great joy in following along with someone who battled GBS and won. Thanks for writing this one Jay. I relished in following along with Stephen's recovery. My Gramps also had a lovely garden and chickens. Once he had turkeys too, but my younger sis balled her eyes out at Thanksgiving that year, and that was the end of turkeys!
Anywho, this beautiful story brought tears to my eyes and filled my heart. Now let me tell you why.....
What's to like: I can tell you that you probably won't like Stephen very much in the beginning. He is angry, bitter and ill-tempered. But please have patience with him. He lost a great deal of himself while fighting for his life. He beat GBS and he's alive but he's a shell of the man he once was. He doesn't want help and he certainly won't ask for it. However, when a situation is presented to him that seems to go both ways, he's considering it. If having a stranger come stay with him and he can get his garden tidied up while helping this guy at the same time, well that just might work. He doesn't know the details of Luke's past but he doesn't really care. They aren't going to be friends and he's not staying long. Just a few weeks during the summer to bring Stephen's neglected garden back to life and then he'll be off. But as the world around Stephen begins to flourish so does the light inside of him. He didn't realize that it wasn't only his garden that had been neglected. A transformation occurs and it brought tears to my eyes.
What's to love: Love grows here my friends, so there's loads to love! I loved witnessing Stephen's tentative steps in retaking his life back. I loved watching Luke clear the path and assist in the renewal of Stephen's path, which in turn allowed him to reawaken his soul. I absolutely adored how they found strength in one another to boost themselves. It wasn't as if they did anything for each other, just gave them the courage to do it themselves. I loved the gardening and music. I loved the cautious intimacy they began to share. I loved the excitement over something as simple as...an egg. But most of all, I loved watching them blossom. It filled my heart and made me smile. I needed a book hug and this was a great big squeeze.
Beware of: A grouchy bear that needs some loving. History from both men that will break your heart. But a beautiful new beginning that will mend all cracks and leave you full of hope.
This book is for: If you're looking for a lovely tale about two men that find everything (and perhaps even more than) they were looking for in a garden full of love, stop here...and join me in believing in a beautiful tomorrow.
Book UNfunk
Sorry. I've gone off course a bit. But what I mean to say is, this is personal to me and I wasn't sure how I would handle the story. But I shouldn't have worried so much. I took great joy in following along with someone who battled GBS and won. Thanks for writing this one Jay. I relished in following along with Stephen's recovery. My Gramps also had a lovely garden and chickens. Once he had turkeys too, but my younger sis balled her eyes out at Thanksgiving that year, and that was the end of turkeys!
Anywho, this beautiful story brought tears to my eyes and filled my heart. Now let me tell you why.....
What's to like: I can tell you that you probably won't like Stephen very much in the beginning. He is angry, bitter and ill-tempered. But please have patience with him. He lost a great deal of himself while fighting for his life. He beat GBS and he's alive but he's a shell of the man he once was. He doesn't want help and he certainly won't ask for it. However, when a situation is presented to him that seems to go both ways, he's considering it. If having a stranger come stay with him and he can get his garden tidied up while helping this guy at the same time, well that just might work. He doesn't know the details of Luke's past but he doesn't really care. They aren't going to be friends and he's not staying long. Just a few weeks during the summer to bring Stephen's neglected garden back to life and then he'll be off. But as the world around Stephen begins to flourish so does the light inside of him. He didn't realize that it wasn't only his garden that had been neglected. A transformation occurs and it brought tears to my eyes.
What's to love: Love grows here my friends, so there's loads to love! I loved witnessing Stephen's tentative steps in retaking his life back. I loved watching Luke clear the path and assist in the renewal of Stephen's path, which in turn allowed him to reawaken his soul. I absolutely adored how they found strength in one another to boost themselves. It wasn't as if they did anything for each other, just gave them the courage to do it themselves. I loved the gardening and music. I loved the cautious intimacy they began to share. I loved the excitement over something as simple as...an egg. But most of all, I loved watching them blossom. It filled my heart and made me smile. I needed a book hug and this was a great big squeeze.
Beware of: A grouchy bear that needs some loving. History from both men that will break your heart. But a beautiful new beginning that will mend all cracks and leave you full of hope.
This book is for: If you're looking for a lovely tale about two men that find everything (and perhaps even more than) they were looking for in a garden full of love, stop here...and join me in believing in a beautiful tomorrow.
Book UNfunk
October 1, 2019
Where Love Grows is a sweet, quiet, hurt-comfort story about two broken men who find a home in each other. Jay Northcote excels at writing tender stories where most of the characters’ struggles are internal. In this book, both MCs, Stephen and Luke, have been hurt, physically and emotionally.
Luke grew up with a mother who was an addict. She died when he was young and even though he’s very successful in his career, Luke is a recovering alcoholic who’s hit rock bottom. When his business manager suggests he take some time away in the country to get back on track, Luke jumps at the chance.
Stephen was blindsided by an unexpected illness that has left him weak and in constant agony. Formerly a gardener, Stephen now struggles with day-to-day chores, and his beautiful garden is in disarray.
Luke arrives to help Stephen take care of daily tasks and bring Stephen’s previously nurtured garden (and Stephen himself) back to life. But Stephen, defensive and standoffish, doesn’t accept help easily.
I liked the way the friendship developed slowly, ever so slowly, between the men. Luke is more willing than Stephen to be open about his past and hope for the future.
Stephen was not an easy bloke to like. I understood that he’d lost his independence and was in pain much of the time, but I didn’t care for his defeatist attitude. He jumps on Luke any time Luke tries to help, and turns down Luke’s affection time and again.
Fortunately, Luke is patient with Stephen and forgives Stephen’s (numerous) trespasses. There’s just enough steam to show us the passion between the men, and the ending is a lovely HEA, chickens, mud, and all.
Luke grew up with a mother who was an addict. She died when he was young and even though he’s very successful in his career, Luke is a recovering alcoholic who’s hit rock bottom. When his business manager suggests he take some time away in the country to get back on track, Luke jumps at the chance.
Stephen was blindsided by an unexpected illness that has left him weak and in constant agony. Formerly a gardener, Stephen now struggles with day-to-day chores, and his beautiful garden is in disarray.
Luke arrives to help Stephen take care of daily tasks and bring Stephen’s previously nurtured garden (and Stephen himself) back to life. But Stephen, defensive and standoffish, doesn’t accept help easily.
I liked the way the friendship developed slowly, ever so slowly, between the men. Luke is more willing than Stephen to be open about his past and hope for the future.
Stephen was not an easy bloke to like. I understood that he’d lost his independence and was in pain much of the time, but I didn’t care for his defeatist attitude. He jumps on Luke any time Luke tries to help, and turns down Luke’s affection time and again.
Fortunately, Luke is patient with Stephen and forgives Stephen’s (numerous) trespasses. There’s just enough steam to show us the passion between the men, and the ending is a lovely HEA, chickens, mud, and all.
November 4, 2019
*2.5 stars*
I really, really wanted to like this book, mainly because I usually enjoy Jay Northcote's stuff, and the book is so sweet, but I struggled to get through it, if I'm being honest.
The story was very... nice. I'm usually a sucker for hurt/comfort types of books, and I like MCs who are going through some real-life turmoil, but I found the pace to be torturously slow. There are a lot of everyday details in the story, like what they are eating and what they are planting, and I often found my mind wandering, which isn't a great sign for me.
The chemistry was not super strong either. Luke was nice, but I wasn't sold on Stephen. I found their interactions to be very stiff and forced, and though there were some very sweet moments, I didn't feel the love like I was hoping to.
The book is blander than Jay normally writes, and though I see that it worked for many of my friends, it was just okay for me.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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I really, really wanted to like this book, mainly because I usually enjoy Jay Northcote's stuff, and the book is so sweet, but I struggled to get through it, if I'm being honest.
The story was very... nice. I'm usually a sucker for hurt/comfort types of books, and I like MCs who are going through some real-life turmoil, but I found the pace to be torturously slow. There are a lot of everyday details in the story, like what they are eating and what they are planting, and I often found my mind wandering, which isn't a great sign for me.
The chemistry was not super strong either. Luke was nice, but I wasn't sold on Stephen. I found their interactions to be very stiff and forced, and though there were some very sweet moments, I didn't feel the love like I was hoping to.
The book is blander than Jay normally writes, and though I see that it worked for many of my friends, it was just okay for me.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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lost-interested
October 29, 2019DNF @ 31%
At first, when I started reading it sounds interesting; two people who were struggling, one with his health and the other with depression but after a few chapters it was me who was struggling! My mind couldn't focus and started wandering all of the place except the pages, so I lost my interest in the story. Probably it was me and not the book though. Hope you enjoy it more than me.
At first, when I started reading it sounds interesting; two people who were struggling, one with his health and the other with depression but after a few chapters it was me who was struggling! My mind couldn't focus and started wandering all of the place except the pages, so I lost my interest in the story. Probably it was me and not the book though. Hope you enjoy it more than me.
September 28, 2019
Loved the title and the whole feel of the book.
This is mainly calm, serene and soothing.
I could virtually hear the bees humming, the birds singing and smell the fresh rain in Wales.
Maybe I’m biased here because I love that area of Britain and it makes me feel at home.
I also love gardening, and there is a lot of that going on. Add in the music making (also one of my favourite things) and you can see why this book reverberates with me on various levels.
Luke and Stephen’s story is both: serene and really heart-warming.
Both guys are facing up to a difficult past and serious issues in their life now: a debilitating disease and mental health issues.
It was balm on the soul watching these two guys connect and help each other to feel more human and whole again. Even if the beginnings are on the rough side (Guess that was the fun part, particularly Stephen’s grouchiness!)
I love how down-to-earth and real these guys come across. On the surface this could be called a ‘simple’ story, but the transcending feeling of healing through human company and going back to nature makes it so much more! (I might just be a wee bit jealous of their way of life!)
This is mainly calm, serene and soothing.
I could virtually hear the bees humming, the birds singing and smell the fresh rain in Wales.
Maybe I’m biased here because I love that area of Britain and it makes me feel at home.
I also love gardening, and there is a lot of that going on. Add in the music making (also one of my favourite things) and you can see why this book reverberates with me on various levels.
Luke and Stephen’s story is both: serene and really heart-warming.
Both guys are facing up to a difficult past and serious issues in their life now: a debilitating disease and mental health issues.
It was balm on the soul watching these two guys connect and help each other to feel more human and whole again. Even if the beginnings are on the rough side (Guess that was the fun part, particularly Stephen’s grouchiness!)
I love how down-to-earth and real these guys come across. On the surface this could be called a ‘simple’ story, but the transcending feeling of healing through human company and going back to nature makes it so much more! (I might just be a wee bit jealous of their way of life!)
Read
September 17, 2019This book took me a very long time to write. This was partly because I was in college for one day a week, and underestimated how much time that would take away from writing. But mainly, it's because I was writing it in the summer, and the weather was lovely... so the lure of being outdoors kept taking me away from my desk. So I was often outdoors pulling up nettles, digging out bindweed, and watering courgette and tomato plants when I should have been writing.
Given the themes of this story, that seems fitting :)
This book is all about the healing power of nature, and how important that connection with nature can be. It has some dark themes. These guys have both been through a lot. Most of their pain is in the past, but it's still casting shadows in the present.
After spending so long on this, I'm really excited about it finally coming to fruition (pun absolutely intended). If you decide to read it, I hope you'll love Stephen and Luke's story.
Given the themes of this story, that seems fitting :)
This book is all about the healing power of nature, and how important that connection with nature can be. It has some dark themes. These guys have both been through a lot. Most of their pain is in the past, but it's still casting shadows in the present.
After spending so long on this, I'm really excited about it finally coming to fruition (pun absolutely intended). If you decide to read it, I hope you'll love Stephen and Luke's story.
September 18, 2019
It's no secret that the way Jay writes resonates soundly with me.
But in this one, he pulled out all the feels about how to write a romance where one of the protagonists isn't a perfectly fit man but is living with the after effects of chronic illness.
I will state for the record that I did a sensitivity reading as someone who is living with a very similar situation albeit from a different condition.
But I'll also state, I made very little input to the narrative other than lots of "OMG yes, that's totally right" throughout because all the emotions were there already.
Jay skilfully gives us Stephen's life as he tries to recover from two huge blows, the loss of his parents being something he was still dealing with when illness struck.
And then, with Luke, we get a man who isn't on the face of it, a likely candidate for a lifetime of happiness.
However, what happens next really is quite beautiful and you'll not get any spoilers here, either than to say it's as organic and natural as the garden which comes back to life alongside Stephen.
I love it when an author steps away from the norm in contemporary romance to give me something a bit more unusual.
There's no great traumas here, no massive dramedy (that's drama and tragedy mushed up into unnecessary plot points).
Instead, we get to watch two men, both a little bit broken, start to bloom together.
Love absolutely does grow here and the Epilogue had me smiling and then laughing my head off.
The chicken poo really does make it memorable 😉
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
But in this one, he pulled out all the feels about how to write a romance where one of the protagonists isn't a perfectly fit man but is living with the after effects of chronic illness.
I will state for the record that I did a sensitivity reading as someone who is living with a very similar situation albeit from a different condition.
But I'll also state, I made very little input to the narrative other than lots of "OMG yes, that's totally right" throughout because all the emotions were there already.
Jay skilfully gives us Stephen's life as he tries to recover from two huge blows, the loss of his parents being something he was still dealing with when illness struck.
And then, with Luke, we get a man who isn't on the face of it, a likely candidate for a lifetime of happiness.
However, what happens next really is quite beautiful and you'll not get any spoilers here, either than to say it's as organic and natural as the garden which comes back to life alongside Stephen.
I love it when an author steps away from the norm in contemporary romance to give me something a bit more unusual.
There's no great traumas here, no massive dramedy (that's drama and tragedy mushed up into unnecessary plot points).
Instead, we get to watch two men, both a little bit broken, start to bloom together.
Love absolutely does grow here and the Epilogue had me smiling and then laughing my head off.
The chicken poo really does make it memorable 😉
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
October 8, 2019
This was overall an ok read for me.
I really liked the setting and the atmosphere and I enjoyed reading about their daily activities. I found it very comforting.
Luke is very likable, but Stephen is one very prickly and stubborn character. I could understand him but I still found some of his actions to be rash and unfair towards Luke.
I liked how slowly everything developed between them, it was done really well, but personally I wasn't a fan of the intimate scenes.
I really liked the setting and the atmosphere and I enjoyed reading about their daily activities. I found it very comforting.
Luke is very likable, but Stephen is one very prickly and stubborn character. I could understand him but I still found some of his actions to be rash and unfair towards Luke.
I liked how slowly everything developed between them, it was done really well, but personally I wasn't a fan of the intimate scenes.
January 29, 2020
Where Love Grows didn't wow me at all, I'm afraid. I was bored a lot of the time and was so tempted to DNF.
This aside, I had problems with the characters. See, I have to (eventually) LIKE a character and Stephen was definitely not likeable ... at all. He was downright mean, and his behaviour wasn't only mean, but bang out of order and unacceptable.
Luke on the other hand was lovely, too forgiving, too willing to please and got stomped all over by Stephen. TBH he came across as a bit of a doormat and I really didn't fall for the whole gardening thing. I mean, who the hell owns his own company, drives a Maserati and is happy to dig gardens instead? Not me, that's for sure. I wanted him to get in that damn Maserati and head for the sunset, pedal to the metal whilst leaving not so nice Stephen in his dust.
2.5 underwhelmed stars
This aside, I had problems with the characters. See, I have to (eventually) LIKE a character and Stephen was definitely not likeable ... at all. He was downright mean, and his behaviour wasn't only mean, but bang out of order and unacceptable.
Luke on the other hand was lovely, too forgiving, too willing to please and got stomped all over by Stephen. TBH he came across as a bit of a doormat and I really didn't fall for the whole gardening thing. I mean, who the hell owns his own company, drives a Maserati and is happy to dig gardens instead? Not me, that's for sure. I wanted him to get in that damn Maserati and head for the sunset, pedal to the metal whilst leaving not so nice Stephen in his dust.
2.5 underwhelmed stars
March 26, 2022
there’s something comfortably mundane about Jay Northcote’s writing. her stories are simple and straightforward and just…ordinary, and i genuinely appreciate that about her books.
this was a very quick and easy read, and that’s what i was hoping for when i started it. i had a few issues with some of the dialogue (it felt stilted and unrealistic in places) and the third act drama was a bit ridiculous (but still felt in-character for these guys, but it still annoyed me lol) and this are the only reasons i didn’t give it a higher rating. 3 stars.
this was a very quick and easy read, and that’s what i was hoping for when i started it. i had a few issues with some of the dialogue (it felt stilted and unrealistic in places) and the third act drama was a bit ridiculous (but still felt in-character for these guys, but it still annoyed me lol) and this are the only reasons i didn’t give it a higher rating. 3 stars.
September 10, 2020
Jay Northcote’s Where Love Grows is a beautifully paced, tender and romantic love story. Both characters are in serious need of some TLC and, while getting there takes some doing, the happy ending to this one is very rewarding.
What a perfect opposites-attract couple! Gruff and defensive, Stephen’s ongoing recovery from a debilitating illness has left him lonely and miserable. Meanwhile Luke is floundering while struggling to overcome his own demons. A mutual friend's suggestion these two pair up and help each other out is a good one.
It takes a bit of doing, but once these two men get to interacting, there's no denying the chemistry! Throughout the story I was charmed by Luke’s ability to open up, and then demand the same from Stephen. Laying it all out there, emotionally and sexually, leads to the couple’s eventual success, and Jay Northcote writes some great dialogue (as well as some fantastically erotic love scenes).
I adored Hamish Long’s performance in the audio version of Where Love Grows. He uses two very distinct voices for Stephen and Luke, and that was essential for this novel. Luke’s adorable London accent shows his more playful, open nature. And Stephen’s gruff more formal speech adds to his character as well.
While the romance is really lovely, I got a real kick out of Jay Northcotes descriptions of Stephen’s home. The work that Luke does around the estate, as well as their trip to the nursery for plants, and the arrival of the chickens are wonderful - and I’ve got no doubt that Hamish Long bringing it all to life enhanced my enjoyment.
What a perfect opposites-attract couple! Gruff and defensive, Stephen’s ongoing recovery from a debilitating illness has left him lonely and miserable. Meanwhile Luke is floundering while struggling to overcome his own demons. A mutual friend's suggestion these two pair up and help each other out is a good one.
It takes a bit of doing, but once these two men get to interacting, there's no denying the chemistry! Throughout the story I was charmed by Luke’s ability to open up, and then demand the same from Stephen. Laying it all out there, emotionally and sexually, leads to the couple’s eventual success, and Jay Northcote writes some great dialogue (as well as some fantastically erotic love scenes).
I adored Hamish Long’s performance in the audio version of Where Love Grows. He uses two very distinct voices for Stephen and Luke, and that was essential for this novel. Luke’s adorable London accent shows his more playful, open nature. And Stephen’s gruff more formal speech adds to his character as well.
While the romance is really lovely, I got a real kick out of Jay Northcotes descriptions of Stephen’s home. The work that Luke does around the estate, as well as their trip to the nursery for plants, and the arrival of the chickens are wonderful - and I’ve got no doubt that Hamish Long bringing it all to life enhanced my enjoyment.
November 1, 2019
* 4.5 stars *
"Where Love Grows" is different than what we're used to from this author. I always think of his books as stories full of light and colors. Something to calm you down and help you relax. I always pick a Jay story when I'm in a book slump because I know he'll be able to take me out of it. I also pick one of them when I'm coming out of a heavy read and want to decompress.
This story was darker, the characters weren't young guys enjoying their life, not having a care in the world. They were troubled people with problems and medical issues. They were looking for a second chance, a reason to start living again and believe in happiness.
I'm always reading everything this author publishes and end up giving it 4 or 5 stars, so it's obvious he's one of my favorite authors. This time though he showed me that he can write light-hearted stories about college aged guys falling in love with their Housemates, as well as heart-wrenching ones about people with insecurities and bourdens who are trying to find a reason to live instead of merelly exist.
Stephen went through something very difficult a couple of years before the beginning of the story and that experience left him with some physical as well as emotional scars. While his body is slowly getting stronger, his soul will never be the same again. He had to face rejection from the person who was supposed to stay by his side during the worst times. He used to be confident, athletic and outdoorsy. Now he's questioning everything, he rarely ventures outside his house and his body is left very weak in the aftermath of his illness.
Luke is the owner of a successful company that he wishes he didn't have to manage. One of his ideas made him a lot of money while he was still very young and he got lost in a reckless world full of parties and drugs. He has just managed to crawl out of that world and he's trying to find something to be passionate about.
When a mutual friend suggests that Luke is the perfect person to stay with Stephen for a few weeks and help him with the chores around the house and that this also is a great opportinity for a change of scenery for Luke, they decide to give it a try. But Stephen is bitter after what he went through and Luke realises from the start that he'll be a difficult person to live with. He's patient though and tries to subtly help Stephen.
As the days turn into weeks they develop a rhythm and it's obvious that they are good for each other. Luke finds a new passion in gardening and Stephen is trying his hand at something new after Luke's encouragement.
A special mention should be made here for the cats and chickens that are the real heroes of this story. The three cats were very temperamental, each had its own character and it was easy to separate them. Each of the four chickens had her own name, inspired from a US State, that fit her personality according to Luke.
The epilogue was a great way to end the story and it gave us a glimpse into Luke and Stephen's future. I'm happy with were we left them.
I hope that Jay Northcote will write more books like this one, as well as that he'll keep giving us sunny books full of happiness and love.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
"Where Love Grows" is different than what we're used to from this author. I always think of his books as stories full of light and colors. Something to calm you down and help you relax. I always pick a Jay story when I'm in a book slump because I know he'll be able to take me out of it. I also pick one of them when I'm coming out of a heavy read and want to decompress.
This story was darker, the characters weren't young guys enjoying their life, not having a care in the world. They were troubled people with problems and medical issues. They were looking for a second chance, a reason to start living again and believe in happiness.
I'm always reading everything this author publishes and end up giving it 4 or 5 stars, so it's obvious he's one of my favorite authors. This time though he showed me that he can write light-hearted stories about college aged guys falling in love with their Housemates, as well as heart-wrenching ones about people with insecurities and bourdens who are trying to find a reason to live instead of merelly exist.
Stephen went through something very difficult a couple of years before the beginning of the story and that experience left him with some physical as well as emotional scars. While his body is slowly getting stronger, his soul will never be the same again. He had to face rejection from the person who was supposed to stay by his side during the worst times. He used to be confident, athletic and outdoorsy. Now he's questioning everything, he rarely ventures outside his house and his body is left very weak in the aftermath of his illness.
Luke is the owner of a successful company that he wishes he didn't have to manage. One of his ideas made him a lot of money while he was still very young and he got lost in a reckless world full of parties and drugs. He has just managed to crawl out of that world and he's trying to find something to be passionate about.
When a mutual friend suggests that Luke is the perfect person to stay with Stephen for a few weeks and help him with the chores around the house and that this also is a great opportinity for a change of scenery for Luke, they decide to give it a try. But Stephen is bitter after what he went through and Luke realises from the start that he'll be a difficult person to live with. He's patient though and tries to subtly help Stephen.
As the days turn into weeks they develop a rhythm and it's obvious that they are good for each other. Luke finds a new passion in gardening and Stephen is trying his hand at something new after Luke's encouragement.
A special mention should be made here for the cats and chickens that are the real heroes of this story. The three cats were very temperamental, each had its own character and it was easy to separate them. Each of the four chickens had her own name, inspired from a US State, that fit her personality according to Luke.
The epilogue was a great way to end the story and it gave us a glimpse into Luke and Stephen's future. I'm happy with were we left them.
I hope that Jay Northcote will write more books like this one, as well as that he'll keep giving us sunny books full of happiness and love.
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
June 22, 2023
This deserves more readings... It's kinda depressing I guess, and the communication between them is not the best, but shows an important side of addiction and to know when to ask for help
August 22, 2020
Stephen & Luke
I enjoyed the falling in love parts of this book and how Luke enjoys himself in ways he never would have if he hadn’t taken the opportunity presented to him.
Stephen I understand isn’t and hasn’t been himself since becoming ill. And I get the attitude I totally do but he snaps a lot at Luke. There are a few times in the book where I wish Luke had stood up for himself a little more.
The ending was my favorite. <3
Again Hamish does an amazing job giving these two their own voices.
I enjoyed the falling in love parts of this book and how Luke enjoys himself in ways he never would have if he hadn’t taken the opportunity presented to him.
Stephen I understand isn’t and hasn’t been himself since becoming ill. And I get the attitude I totally do but he snaps a lot at Luke. There are a few times in the book where I wish Luke had stood up for himself a little more.
The ending was my favorite. <3
Again Hamish does an amazing job giving these two their own voices.
March 13, 2021
With Nurture & Care Love Blooms!
The Stephen & Luke story includes insecurities, stubbornness, a debilitating disease, alcoholism, and finally, Love. This story has all the best ingredients: likable, but flawed MCs, interesting enough premise, slow-burn romance and just enough sexy times. OTOH, this storyline seems familiar, as in a well-known trope. No surprises, just well-written storytelling.
*Please note: Received ARC; my review is my honest opinion.
The Stephen & Luke story includes insecurities, stubbornness, a debilitating disease, alcoholism, and finally, Love. This story has all the best ingredients: likable, but flawed MCs, interesting enough premise, slow-burn romance and just enough sexy times. OTOH, this storyline seems familiar, as in a well-known trope. No surprises, just well-written storytelling.
*Please note: Received ARC; my review is my honest opinion.
October 31, 2019
Sweet with a bit of angst, though a bit too slow at times.
Stephen and Luke struggle with two very different things, but both men look to the Welsh countryside for healing.
Stephen is trying to get his life back from the debilitating onset of Guillain-Baré syndrome, while Luke is a recovering alcoholic who’s hit rock bottom.
A mutual friend puts the two men in touch - Luke can help Stephen to rejuvenate his ruined garden, and the garden can give Luke the peace and focus he needs.
Their initial meeting isn’t promising at all. Luke relies heavily on drink to feel at ease, and Stephen gives a less-than-happy welcome.
But over the days that follow, slowly, very slowly, Stephen and Luke develop a friendship. Shared meals, days working in the garden, and quiet nights with the cats become a routine.
Though I thought the story dragged at times, particularly with the gardening, I really enjoyed the muted tone and Luke and Stephen’s sweet dynamic in the Welsh countryside.
And beneath it all there’s an underlying attraction that becomes more and more difficult to ignore.
The romance here isn’t easy. Both men have been burned, and they’re hesitant to take things to the next step.
Stephen especially becomes the roadblock. He repeatedly pushes Luke away, even before anything romantic happens. I really could have done with less of Stephen’s prickliness. It just wasn’t a good look!
But once Stephen gets his head out of his ass and lets Luke love him and lets himself love Luke the way they deserve, the happy ending was all kinds of sweet.
If you’re looking for a quiet romance between two men in need of healing, give ‘Where Love Grows’ a try!
Stephen and Luke struggle with two very different things, but both men look to the Welsh countryside for healing.
Stephen is trying to get his life back from the debilitating onset of Guillain-Baré syndrome, while Luke is a recovering alcoholic who’s hit rock bottom.
A mutual friend puts the two men in touch - Luke can help Stephen to rejuvenate his ruined garden, and the garden can give Luke the peace and focus he needs.
Their initial meeting isn’t promising at all. Luke relies heavily on drink to feel at ease, and Stephen gives a less-than-happy welcome.
But over the days that follow, slowly, very slowly, Stephen and Luke develop a friendship. Shared meals, days working in the garden, and quiet nights with the cats become a routine.
Though I thought the story dragged at times, particularly with the gardening, I really enjoyed the muted tone and Luke and Stephen’s sweet dynamic in the Welsh countryside.
And beneath it all there’s an underlying attraction that becomes more and more difficult to ignore.
The romance here isn’t easy. Both men have been burned, and they’re hesitant to take things to the next step.
Stephen especially becomes the roadblock. He repeatedly pushes Luke away, even before anything romantic happens. I really could have done with less of Stephen’s prickliness. It just wasn’t a good look!
But once Stephen gets his head out of his ass and lets Luke love him and lets himself love Luke the way they deserve, the happy ending was all kinds of sweet.
If you’re looking for a quiet romance between two men in need of healing, give ‘Where Love Grows’ a try!
January 11, 2023
I love these two 🥹 domesticity, gardening, care taking. Emotional turmoil, working through feelings and trauma together. A sprinkle of cozy secluded cabin vibes.
Check CWs. Relapse with alcohol, addiction in family, parental neglect, death of loved one(s), internalized ableism.
Check CWs. Relapse with alcohol, addiction in family, parental neglect, death of loved one(s), internalized ableism.
August 22, 2020
I always enjoy Jay’s stories and this was no exception. The character portrayal here is extremely well done, with just the right amount of angst that tugs on your heartstrings. Stephen and Luke have several personal issues and difficulties that are gradually revealed to each other, as well as to the reader. Despite a shaky start, the two men grow to support and comfort each other and find love along the way. It’s not an easy path for them. I enjoyed all the garden and plant metaphors that symbolised their lives and growing love. Being from the UK, I love stories set here and could picture the long, hot summer days from last year as Luke worked in the garden.
Jay’s writing flows easily, gripping you, and making you want to read to the end. There’s lots of lovely ‘feels’ in this one. Highly recommended.
***AUDIOBOOK REVIEW - AUG. 2020***
I enjoyed reading this story last year and the audio version is superb. Hamish Long does a fantastic job of narrating and the two distinct voices he created for Luke and Stephen are spot on—a lovely deep Welsh accent and a soft London accent that didn’t sound like it had come straight out of Oliver Twist.
The character portrayal in this story is extremely well done, with just the right amount of angst that tugs on the heartstrings. Stephen and Luke have several personal issues and past heartbreaks that they don’t feel inclined to discuss at first, but they gradually reveal to each other and the reader. Despite a rather reluctant and shaky start to their relationship, the two men grow to support, comfort, and trust each other, finding love along the way. It’s not an easy path for them. There are some sizzling massage scenes and other sensual times, plus there are two heart-tugging ‘break-ups’, which I always love.
I liked all the garden and plant metaphors that symbolised their lives and growing love. I’m glad Jay still sets his stories in the UK and could picture the days they spent working and relaxing in Stephen's garden. Jay’s writing flows easily, gripping you, and making you want to read to the end. There are lots of lovely ‘feels’ in this one.
Hamish Long has become one of my favourite narrators. His soothing voice is easy to listen to, making stories easy to follow. He did a great job of portraying the differing personalities, the heartache, and the range of emotions in this story. Highly recommended.
Jay’s writing flows easily, gripping you, and making you want to read to the end. There’s lots of lovely ‘feels’ in this one. Highly recommended.
***AUDIOBOOK REVIEW - AUG. 2020***
I enjoyed reading this story last year and the audio version is superb. Hamish Long does a fantastic job of narrating and the two distinct voices he created for Luke and Stephen are spot on—a lovely deep Welsh accent and a soft London accent that didn’t sound like it had come straight out of Oliver Twist.
The character portrayal in this story is extremely well done, with just the right amount of angst that tugs on the heartstrings. Stephen and Luke have several personal issues and past heartbreaks that they don’t feel inclined to discuss at first, but they gradually reveal to each other and the reader. Despite a rather reluctant and shaky start to their relationship, the two men grow to support, comfort, and trust each other, finding love along the way. It’s not an easy path for them. There are some sizzling massage scenes and other sensual times, plus there are two heart-tugging ‘break-ups’, which I always love.
I liked all the garden and plant metaphors that symbolised their lives and growing love. I’m glad Jay still sets his stories in the UK and could picture the days they spent working and relaxing in Stephen's garden. Jay’s writing flows easily, gripping you, and making you want to read to the end. There are lots of lovely ‘feels’ in this one.
Hamish Long has become one of my favourite narrators. His soothing voice is easy to listen to, making stories easy to follow. He did a great job of portraying the differing personalities, the heartache, and the range of emotions in this story. Highly recommended.
September 13, 2023
Where Love Grows is a beautiful story between two men who have struggled with hard times, set in the gorgeous backdrop of Wales. Stephen has been seriously ill and is struggling to get his life back on track. It appears hopeless and he feels helpless. Luke is suffering from depression and has no idea on how to make his life better OR be able to move forward. Together, these two are amazing.
Oh my, I loved this story. I am not a gardener although my heart is in the right place. Unfortunately, my brown thumb doesn't cooperate! So I was immediately sympathising with Luke as he struggled to understand the difference between a weed and a flower. Stephen is a prickly character that endears himself to you as you learn more about his story. Yes, I wanted to slap him upside the head a couple of times, but I want to do that to my husband at times too, so count it as a compliment 😉
The writing is excellent, with clear descriptions of places, weather, emotions, you name it. The pacing is smooth, with the ending sneaking up on me. I was so engrossed in the story, I didn't realise I was nearing the end. I could have carried on reading! There is only a small cast of characters but this works so well. The storyline is superbly simple, focusing on the important things between our two characters rather than unnecessary drama.
This is a book to enjoy all year long, no matter what the season, or what is growing in your garden. Absolutely fantastic, and highly recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 26, 20219
Oh my, I loved this story. I am not a gardener although my heart is in the right place. Unfortunately, my brown thumb doesn't cooperate! So I was immediately sympathising with Luke as he struggled to understand the difference between a weed and a flower. Stephen is a prickly character that endears himself to you as you learn more about his story. Yes, I wanted to slap him upside the head a couple of times, but I want to do that to my husband at times too, so count it as a compliment 😉
The writing is excellent, with clear descriptions of places, weather, emotions, you name it. The pacing is smooth, with the ending sneaking up on me. I was so engrossed in the story, I didn't realise I was nearing the end. I could have carried on reading! There is only a small cast of characters but this works so well. The storyline is superbly simple, focusing on the important things between our two characters rather than unnecessary drama.
This is a book to enjoy all year long, no matter what the season, or what is growing in your garden. Absolutely fantastic, and highly recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 26, 20219
September 28, 2019
One of best book I've read this year. I love when a book show us regular guys with insecurities and real problems.
I loved seeing things come back to life and friendship, attraction and love growing among Stephen and Luke.
I love books set in Europe, specially in the country.
The way the garden flourishes under Luke's care is similar to the way the relationship between Luke and Stephen develops
This was a brilliant book written by one of my favorite authors!
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I loved seeing things come back to life and friendship, attraction and love growing among Stephen and Luke.
I love books set in Europe, specially in the country.
The way the garden flourishes under Luke's care is similar to the way the relationship between Luke and Stephen develops
This was a brilliant book written by one of my favorite authors!
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
October 1, 2019
It's been a while since I read a good book and this thankfully filled the gaping void that has been an ongoing book slump - this was just simply a sweet and heartwarming read.
Stephen is recovering from a debilitating illness and has become somewhat of a recluse in the big house in rural Wales, which he inherited from his parents. He's a proud and stubborn man and refuses help, often wallowing in regret and pines for his garden and long walks before his illness. Luke is a city boy from humble beginnings and is soon riding the executive wave when a small software idea of his takes off and he suddenly presented with the lifestyle of the rich and famous. Unfortunately, he hits the highs hard and the comedown has his mental wellbeing take a battering and he's adrift, trying to anchor himself to a useful purpose to get out of bed in the morning. A mutual friend puts the two of them together - hoping each broken man can gain strength from one another and finally turn the corner - to be at peace with themselves, their limitations and look forward to happier futures.
This felt different to Jay's usual stories, it felt simpler, no over done drama or unnecessary angst - don't get me wrong, there was still plenty to get your teeth into with Stephen and Luke's back stories, but this didn't clutter up the main story - it was full of everyday life, overcoming hurdles tentative steps in taking "life" back! You could "feel" the warmth of the summer. I loved Luke's gentle awakening that helping Stephen gave him a purpose and in turn, Stephen finally finding the courage to change and stop being an utter arse and allow himself to blossom, alongside his garden (although, let it be known I could've throttled him on a number of occasions!!).
Overall, the story flows well, full of feels and heartwarming moments of joy (the egg event left me grinning like a loon). The slow-burn romance was welcome, there was no place for insta-lust, it was a journey for both of them and the progression was well paced - although Luke's character was easier to like, Stephen's stubbornness often pulled at the heartstrings, not always for the right reasons - but they were a good match. It ended on an epilogue and left me with a contented sigh.
A copy of this book was gifted by the Author for an honest review.
Stephen is recovering from a debilitating illness and has become somewhat of a recluse in the big house in rural Wales, which he inherited from his parents. He's a proud and stubborn man and refuses help, often wallowing in regret and pines for his garden and long walks before his illness. Luke is a city boy from humble beginnings and is soon riding the executive wave when a small software idea of his takes off and he suddenly presented with the lifestyle of the rich and famous. Unfortunately, he hits the highs hard and the comedown has his mental wellbeing take a battering and he's adrift, trying to anchor himself to a useful purpose to get out of bed in the morning. A mutual friend puts the two of them together - hoping each broken man can gain strength from one another and finally turn the corner - to be at peace with themselves, their limitations and look forward to happier futures.
This felt different to Jay's usual stories, it felt simpler, no over done drama or unnecessary angst - don't get me wrong, there was still plenty to get your teeth into with Stephen and Luke's back stories, but this didn't clutter up the main story - it was full of everyday life, overcoming hurdles tentative steps in taking "life" back! You could "feel" the warmth of the summer. I loved Luke's gentle awakening that helping Stephen gave him a purpose and in turn, Stephen finally finding the courage to change and stop being an utter arse and allow himself to blossom, alongside his garden (although, let it be known I could've throttled him on a number of occasions!!).
Overall, the story flows well, full of feels and heartwarming moments of joy (the egg event left me grinning like a loon). The slow-burn romance was welcome, there was no place for insta-lust, it was a journey for both of them and the progression was well paced - although Luke's character was easier to like, Stephen's stubbornness often pulled at the heartstrings, not always for the right reasons - but they were a good match. It ended on an epilogue and left me with a contented sigh.
A copy of this book was gifted by the Author for an honest review.
June 10, 2020
Disclaimer: I've alpha read this book
CW: mentions of addiction, recovery, past illness, mentions of suicide (in the past)
I love this book!! It is only second to Second Chance when it comes to Jay Northcote's books. I have always loved Jay's style of writing and his way of storytelling.
Second Chance was the book that gave me chance to explore and figure out myself. Where Love Grows is a story that made me want to venture out in the nature again, and to try to reconnect with it. Despite difficult topics, this book has a double hurt/comfort theme and I just loved seeing the guys recovering, connecting, realising what they need.
I have to say that the ending, the reconciliation was one of my favourite scenes ever. Also the chicken poo thingy in the epilogue. 3
CW: mentions of addiction, recovery, past illness, mentions of suicide (in the past)
I love this book!! It is only second to Second Chance when it comes to Jay Northcote's books. I have always loved Jay's style of writing and his way of storytelling.
Second Chance was the book that gave me chance to explore and figure out myself. Where Love Grows is a story that made me want to venture out in the nature again, and to try to reconnect with it. Despite difficult topics, this book has a double hurt/comfort theme and I just loved seeing the guys recovering, connecting, realising what they need.
I have to say that the ending, the reconciliation was one of my favourite scenes ever. Also the chicken poo thingy in the epilogue. 3
August 25, 2020
4.5 stars rounded down...full review below...
I wasn't sure about this one going into things and that really had very little to do with the actual story. It was more about the fact that this is an age gap story and lately for me that trope seems to be getting done to death, but it's Jay Northcote and I just can't seem to say "no" to the opportunity to listen to one of his stories on audio and I'm glad I caved on this one.
Yes, 'Where Love Grows' is an age gap story but it's also a lot more. It's second chances, starting over, finding love, finding yourself.
When a friend from college calls Stephen with a request. Stephen's first response is no. There's no way he's going to have a stranger staying with him, even if he could use some help taking care of his home as he recovers from his recent illness. But then again maybe he does...maybe, a second set of hands could help return his gardens to their former glory...maybe...
Luke's a city boy and he wouldn't know a Dandelion from a Daisy but getting out of the city might be just what he needs as he fights his way back from depression and really it's just for a week and then they can scrap the whole experiment and he can return to the city where he belongs.
Both Stephen and Luke won me over. I loved the slow burn as these two men went from total strangers to friends, to friends with benefits, and ultimately becoming lovers. Both men had their own reasons to proceed with caution but proceed they did...one step forward and sometimes with two steps back.
Neither Stephen nor Luke is looking for any kind of commitment and it's Stephen's love of the outdoors that helps Luke to find his own passion for gardening and ultimately leads them to a 'mutually beneficial arrangement' that just like Stephen's gardens begins to grow into something more.
I was enchanted with the relationship development between these two men. It was real and there were struggles and conflicts to be overcome as well as moments of tenderness and passion. Seeing Luke discover the beauty of nature and the peace that it seemed to bring him ultimately helped Stephen's heart to heal as much as it did Luke's.
Once again Hamish Long has given voice to the author's characters creating a truly enjoyable listening experience and making it such an effortless task to visualize these two men as they meet and their relationship grows over a summer spent in the English countryside.
I don't think I enjoy anything more when it comes to a love story than one that leaves me feeling like it could really happen. I don't need sunshine lollipops and fairy godmothers in my love stories what I need is real people, living real lives, finding real happiness as they face life's challenges together.
*************************
An audio book of 'Where Love Grows' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn't sure about this one going into things and that really had very little to do with the actual story. It was more about the fact that this is an age gap story and lately for me that trope seems to be getting done to death, but it's Jay Northcote and I just can't seem to say "no" to the opportunity to listen to one of his stories on audio and I'm glad I caved on this one.
Yes, 'Where Love Grows' is an age gap story but it's also a lot more. It's second chances, starting over, finding love, finding yourself.
When a friend from college calls Stephen with a request. Stephen's first response is no. There's no way he's going to have a stranger staying with him, even if he could use some help taking care of his home as he recovers from his recent illness. But then again maybe he does...maybe, a second set of hands could help return his gardens to their former glory...maybe...
Luke's a city boy and he wouldn't know a Dandelion from a Daisy but getting out of the city might be just what he needs as he fights his way back from depression and really it's just for a week and then they can scrap the whole experiment and he can return to the city where he belongs.
Both Stephen and Luke won me over. I loved the slow burn as these two men went from total strangers to friends, to friends with benefits, and ultimately becoming lovers. Both men had their own reasons to proceed with caution but proceed they did...one step forward and sometimes with two steps back.
Neither Stephen nor Luke is looking for any kind of commitment and it's Stephen's love of the outdoors that helps Luke to find his own passion for gardening and ultimately leads them to a 'mutually beneficial arrangement' that just like Stephen's gardens begins to grow into something more.
I was enchanted with the relationship development between these two men. It was real and there were struggles and conflicts to be overcome as well as moments of tenderness and passion. Seeing Luke discover the beauty of nature and the peace that it seemed to bring him ultimately helped Stephen's heart to heal as much as it did Luke's.
Once again Hamish Long has given voice to the author's characters creating a truly enjoyable listening experience and making it such an effortless task to visualize these two men as they meet and their relationship grows over a summer spent in the English countryside.
I don't think I enjoy anything more when it comes to a love story than one that leaves me feeling like it could really happen. I don't need sunshine lollipops and fairy godmothers in my love stories what I need is real people, living real lives, finding real happiness as they face life's challenges together.
*************************
An audio book of 'Where Love Grows' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2024
Two broken men, an unkempt garden and a summer to fall in love.
I really enjoyed this book I picked up for the aspect of injury caretaking. Both men have their own demons to fight with and the time they spend together working on a garden becomes metaphorical for their relationship: it takes time hacking away the weeds but eventually you can plant seeds and watch them grow.
Tags: Two closed off out and gay men with realistic feelings (insulting sotto voce, having mean outbursts but apologising), set in a cozy house in Wales, one man learning the daily ins and outs of living with Guillain-Barré syndrome who used to be a gardener and whose garden is overgrown, one man recovering from addiction, London born and raised has never gardened and finds a new peace and passion for it (TW on brink of alcohol addiction, is sober for summer, relapses into alcohol for a day),three furbabies (tortoise shell cat, ginger cat, black and white cat), look at all those chickens!), emotional caretaking bath, massage scenes, eighty percent breakup, TW parental death (Mum cancer, dad hangs himself from grief; other Mum heroin overdose); MC reacts sensitively to suicidal ideation joke, MC was abandoned by boyfriend in early stages of illness
NSFW infos
- 29 years old, mainly bottoms
- late thirty year old/ early forty year old (I guess?) mainly tops, bottoms later on in what does resemble a true wuv scene but not wholly
- vers
I really enjoyed this book I picked up for the aspect of injury caretaking. Both men have their own demons to fight with and the time they spend together working on a garden becomes metaphorical for their relationship: it takes time hacking away the weeds but eventually you can plant seeds and watch them grow.
Tags: Two closed off out and gay men with realistic feelings (insulting sotto voce, having mean outbursts but apologising), set in a cozy house in Wales, one man learning the daily ins and outs of living with Guillain-Barré syndrome who used to be a gardener and whose garden is overgrown, one man recovering from addiction, London born and raised has never gardened and finds a new peace and passion for it (TW on brink of alcohol addiction, is sober for summer, relapses into alcohol for a day),three furbabies (tortoise shell cat, ginger cat, black and white cat), look at all those chickens!), emotional caretaking bath, massage scenes, eighty percent breakup, TW parental death (Mum cancer, dad hangs himself from grief; other Mum heroin overdose); MC reacts sensitively to suicidal ideation joke, MC was abandoned by boyfriend in early stages of illness
NSFW infos
- 29 years old, mainly bottoms
- late thirty year old/ early forty year old (I guess?) mainly tops, bottoms later on in what does resemble a true wuv scene but not wholly
- vers
May 22, 2021
4.5 stars
I have loved my very first book by Jay Northcote. In my pursue for more new-to-me authors, Jay is a winner and I will be back for more!
I have loved the journey of these two imperfect characters. Stephen and Luke both have EXTREMELY heavy baggage and although they may not look like a good match at the beginning of the story, I simply loved the way they looked after each other. I really enjoyed how their relationship developed, from strangers thrown into the same house, to caring friends, to lovers.
I don't have any personal experience of the circumstances that both Stephen and Luke went through - from the physical to the mental illnesses, to the trauma they carried from their family background. That being said, I felt like all those subject matters were very nicely done. I totally got Stephen's character - his bitterness and reluctance to commit after what his ex did.
I loved the slow burn and the angst was on point during both fights. Indeed, if anything, I felt like the ending was too rushed and when Stephen goes to apologise to Luke, Luke says yes way too quickly. I would have liked one last angsty scene, Luke making Stephen fight a bit harder to get him to come back.
I have loved my very first book by Jay Northcote. In my pursue for more new-to-me authors, Jay is a winner and I will be back for more!
I have loved the journey of these two imperfect characters. Stephen and Luke both have EXTREMELY heavy baggage and although they may not look like a good match at the beginning of the story, I simply loved the way they looked after each other. I really enjoyed how their relationship developed, from strangers thrown into the same house, to caring friends, to lovers.
I don't have any personal experience of the circumstances that both Stephen and Luke went through - from the physical to the mental illnesses, to the trauma they carried from their family background. That being said, I felt like all those subject matters were very nicely done. I totally got Stephen's character - his bitterness and reluctance to commit after what his ex did.
I loved the slow burn and the angst was on point during both fights. Indeed, if anything, I felt like the ending was too rushed and when Stephen goes to apologise to Luke, Luke says yes way too quickly. I would have liked one last angsty scene, Luke making Stephen fight a bit harder to get him to come back.
October 28, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Jay Northcote has released a wonderful new novel of healing and love called Where Love Grows. Most of this novel is focused on just two men and the baggage they both carry from their pasts that influence how they view themselves and how that view shapes their self-worth. Needless to say, both Luke and Stephen are in need of a serious shaking and head slapping, for neither of them knew their own value. Honestly, they had become their own worst enemy and neither of them could really see it. For Luke, it was the guilt over his mother’s death and her relentless pursuit of drugs and alcohol that made her the worst kid of neglectful parent. Luke never really come to terms with that and it ate at him years later.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Jay Northcote has released a wonderful new novel of healing and love called Where Love Grows. Most of this novel is focused on just two men and the baggage they both carry from their pasts that influence how they view themselves and how that view shapes their self-worth. Needless to say, both Luke and Stephen are in need of a serious shaking and head slapping, for neither of them knew their own value. Honestly, they had become their own worst enemy and neither of them could really see it. For Luke, it was the guilt over his mother’s death and her relentless pursuit of drugs and alcohol that made her the worst kid of neglectful parent. Luke never really come to terms with that and it ate at him years later.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
October 8, 2019
Where Love Grows is one of Jay's finest book. It was almost like reading Passing Through with the different angle.
Luke and Stephen found each other when they're looking for comfort. But never realized it was in each other's arms at first. This was a nice, hurt comfort story between two men who's lost and had no idea what to do in the next chapter of their lives.
I loved reading about Stephen and Luke, the way they adjusted to their new life and found a new purpose. Not easy for two broken souls, but somehow, they managed it just fine.
Full review soon :)
Luke and Stephen found each other when they're looking for comfort. But never realized it was in each other's arms at first. This was a nice, hurt comfort story between two men who's lost and had no idea what to do in the next chapter of their lives.
I loved reading about Stephen and Luke, the way they adjusted to their new life and found a new purpose. Not easy for two broken souls, but somehow, they managed it just fine.
Full review soon :)
August 18, 2020
Jay Northcote always seems to write the stories that dig into my heart and make me cry happy tears. Where Love Grows was a beautiful slow burn. Luke and Stephen are both broken souls . Stephen is recovering from a devastating illness and Luke from depression and addiction. Luke leaves London to live with Stephen and help him repair his garden and lawn. This is a harder journey than most main characters experience because these two men are both hurting so much.
Hamish Long was the perfect narrator. I loved his voice and the way he brought each character to life.
Hamish Long was the perfect narrator. I loved his voice and the way he brought each character to life.
December 29, 2019
Best book I've read by the author thus far.
September 26, 2019
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been originally posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
This is the second Northcote-novel I read and the second Northcote-novel I couldn’t seem to put down until I had reached the last full stop. There’s something with the author’s unpretentious, solid, well-paced writing, his thoughtful choice of topic, his pitch-perfect creation of believable and likeable main characters that stroke a bell with me—again. The basic idea is simple, though. No far-fetched, fancy storyline here. Just lock up two guys with serious issues in an old house, add an alluring environment—the main location of the plot being a lonesome, sun-kissed and verdant spot in Wales—, reduce the secondary characters to the bare essentials (i.e. no more than two of them throughout the whole novel), and make the MCs find their bumpy way through to their HEA. That’s, in a nutshell, what this book is about. Sounds easy-peasy to write, but with most things seemingly easy-peasy, to pull it through (and masterfully so) and make it work is one of the hardest things on earth.
On one hand, there’s Luke. Successful self-made businessman, he’s young, he’s handsome, he’s rich, he’s a city-boy through and through. And yet, his personal history makes him unable to resist the artificial lure of drugs—even if he, of all people, should know better, his mother having died from an overdose. At one moment, things get out of hand, and Luke, prone to severe depression, has a nervous breakdown. He tries to recover from it and steer clear of his former addiction, but golly, it’s so hard! On the other hand, there’s Stephen, a brilliant mind, who has had a perfectly happy childhood in the Welsh countryside. After his mothers’ death from cancer and his father’s subsequent suicide, he returns to his native county and settles in his childhood home, doing the odd job as a gardener until gardening becomes his main source of income. Then, he is struck by the vicious, unforeseeable Guillain-Barré-Syndrome. With proper medication, he starts to slowly recover, but his illness was too much for his boyfriend, who has left him all alone in his remote house, embittered, insecure, sad, deeply unhappy.
A common friend of both, Will, comes up with the idea of bringing them together. He succeeds in convincing Luke and Stephen that they could both help each other with their recovery, and that’s why, one day, Luke drives up to Wales for a probation period of one week to assist Stephen with household chores and bringing his luscious garden back to shape. Both are wary at the beginning, but soon, a nice and friendly bond starts to bloom and become stronger and stronger, drawing them together with an inexorable force of attraction that none has anticipated and none is really willing to acknowledge. That leads, of course, to several twists and turns, and it takes loads of work, moments of introspection, much talking, much suffering, until love is allowed to shine as brightly as we, the readers, are gagging to see right from the first page.
Northcote created his characters with good psychological insight. Maybe Luke is more endearing throughout the book because he’s less oyster-like and readier to accept his budding feelings, but I “got” both MCs. Stephen is just very insecure, focussing way too much on what is “wrong” with him (understandably so, I have to add), overestimating his weaknesses while underestimating his strong points. He’s almost constantly in pain, too (horrible side-effect of that ghastly syndrome he’s suffering from), so it’s no wonder he often has rash and rude reactions. Luke is more considerate, but easily destabilized as well. Everything in both Luke’s and Stephen’s actions, reactions, and thoughts added up for me. There was no unnecessary, unexplained, self-induced drama, no far-fetched recoiling from what, at one point, is obvious to anyone but them two, but a cautious step-by-step awareness process that I could easily relate to. They should have been more open, but I do get it that we sometimes might have limitations as to what we want to share with someone else. Of course, I knew from the start how the story would end—don’t we all read romance because we want to see a happy ending? But it’s not the goal that counts; it’s the progression leading up to it. And Jay Northcote does a wonderful job here. He knows how to dose dramatic moments, when to tune down the drama, when to throw in moments of calm, or bliss, or the odd shag. Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and sighed with contentment at the end. And, for the record, decided I had to visit Wales one of these days.
This review has been originally posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
This is the second Northcote-novel I read and the second Northcote-novel I couldn’t seem to put down until I had reached the last full stop. There’s something with the author’s unpretentious, solid, well-paced writing, his thoughtful choice of topic, his pitch-perfect creation of believable and likeable main characters that stroke a bell with me—again. The basic idea is simple, though. No far-fetched, fancy storyline here. Just lock up two guys with serious issues in an old house, add an alluring environment—the main location of the plot being a lonesome, sun-kissed and verdant spot in Wales—, reduce the secondary characters to the bare essentials (i.e. no more than two of them throughout the whole novel), and make the MCs find their bumpy way through to their HEA. That’s, in a nutshell, what this book is about. Sounds easy-peasy to write, but with most things seemingly easy-peasy, to pull it through (and masterfully so) and make it work is one of the hardest things on earth.
On one hand, there’s Luke. Successful self-made businessman, he’s young, he’s handsome, he’s rich, he’s a city-boy through and through. And yet, his personal history makes him unable to resist the artificial lure of drugs—even if he, of all people, should know better, his mother having died from an overdose. At one moment, things get out of hand, and Luke, prone to severe depression, has a nervous breakdown. He tries to recover from it and steer clear of his former addiction, but golly, it’s so hard! On the other hand, there’s Stephen, a brilliant mind, who has had a perfectly happy childhood in the Welsh countryside. After his mothers’ death from cancer and his father’s subsequent suicide, he returns to his native county and settles in his childhood home, doing the odd job as a gardener until gardening becomes his main source of income. Then, he is struck by the vicious, unforeseeable Guillain-Barré-Syndrome. With proper medication, he starts to slowly recover, but his illness was too much for his boyfriend, who has left him all alone in his remote house, embittered, insecure, sad, deeply unhappy.
A common friend of both, Will, comes up with the idea of bringing them together. He succeeds in convincing Luke and Stephen that they could both help each other with their recovery, and that’s why, one day, Luke drives up to Wales for a probation period of one week to assist Stephen with household chores and bringing his luscious garden back to shape. Both are wary at the beginning, but soon, a nice and friendly bond starts to bloom and become stronger and stronger, drawing them together with an inexorable force of attraction that none has anticipated and none is really willing to acknowledge. That leads, of course, to several twists and turns, and it takes loads of work, moments of introspection, much talking, much suffering, until love is allowed to shine as brightly as we, the readers, are gagging to see right from the first page.
Northcote created his characters with good psychological insight. Maybe Luke is more endearing throughout the book because he’s less oyster-like and readier to accept his budding feelings, but I “got” both MCs. Stephen is just very insecure, focussing way too much on what is “wrong” with him (understandably so, I have to add), overestimating his weaknesses while underestimating his strong points. He’s almost constantly in pain, too (horrible side-effect of that ghastly syndrome he’s suffering from), so it’s no wonder he often has rash and rude reactions. Luke is more considerate, but easily destabilized as well. Everything in both Luke’s and Stephen’s actions, reactions, and thoughts added up for me. There was no unnecessary, unexplained, self-induced drama, no far-fetched recoiling from what, at one point, is obvious to anyone but them two, but a cautious step-by-step awareness process that I could easily relate to. They should have been more open, but I do get it that we sometimes might have limitations as to what we want to share with someone else. Of course, I knew from the start how the story would end—don’t we all read romance because we want to see a happy ending? But it’s not the goal that counts; it’s the progression leading up to it. And Jay Northcote does a wonderful job here. He knows how to dose dramatic moments, when to tune down the drama, when to throw in moments of calm, or bliss, or the odd shag. Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and sighed with contentment at the end. And, for the record, decided I had to visit Wales one of these days.
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