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Timber Falls #4
More Than We Bargained For
Wanted: renter for rural Oregon mountain lodge. Single mom divorcees named Starla preferred.
Starla Moore despises a mystery, and there's no bigger mystery than Sawyer Devereaux. He comes into the library on Thursdays like clockwork, but rarely talks to anyone else. Not that she despises him; after all, he's easy on the eyes, quick-witted, and that Southern accent makes her swoon. But in the midst of a divorce, her only romance is the bookish kind. Worst of all, crashing with her bestie won't be an option soon, especially since her final fling with her husband had one very specific unintended consequence...
Regaining consciousness with his head in the cute librarian's lap was a rude awakening; Sawyer thought his health problems were under control. Sans driver's license, there's no way he can live in his little cabin alone...or keep up with the anonymous book donations he's been leaving to make Starla smile. When he finds out she's struggling financially, he proposes a trade: his housing for her driving. Surely he can keep his feelings a secret for a few more months...
He's given up on his dreams; she's just figuring hers out. When the rumors start, will it push these two misfits together...or drive one of them out of Timber Falls for good?
More Than We Bargained For is the fourth book in the Timber Falls romantic comedy series. If you like town meeting rants, neighborly concerns that become something more, and water fights that heat things up instead of cooling them down, buy this book now. This book contains no open-door sex scenes, no cheating, and a happily ever after.
Starla Moore despises a mystery, and there's no bigger mystery than Sawyer Devereaux. He comes into the library on Thursdays like clockwork, but rarely talks to anyone else. Not that she despises him; after all, he's easy on the eyes, quick-witted, and that Southern accent makes her swoon. But in the midst of a divorce, her only romance is the bookish kind. Worst of all, crashing with her bestie won't be an option soon, especially since her final fling with her husband had one very specific unintended consequence...
Regaining consciousness with his head in the cute librarian's lap was a rude awakening; Sawyer thought his health problems were under control. Sans driver's license, there's no way he can live in his little cabin alone...or keep up with the anonymous book donations he's been leaving to make Starla smile. When he finds out she's struggling financially, he proposes a trade: his housing for her driving. Surely he can keep his feelings a secret for a few more months...
He's given up on his dreams; she's just figuring hers out. When the rumors start, will it push these two misfits together...or drive one of them out of Timber Falls for good?
More Than We Bargained For is the fourth book in the Timber Falls romantic comedy series. If you like town meeting rants, neighborly concerns that become something more, and water fights that heat things up instead of cooling them down, buy this book now. This book contains no open-door sex scenes, no cheating, and a happily ever after.
290 pages, Paperback
First published November 9, 2020
168 people are currently reading
1753 people want to read
About the author
Fiona West
21 books125 followersFiona West is an American author living in the Pacific Northwest. Writing romance is her favorite thing, followed closely by reading, knitting and drinking tea while looking out the window. When she’s not doing those things, she’s spending time with her husband and two kids. Her debut novel, The Ex-Princess, received a starred review from Publishers Weekly and was named one of their Best Books of 2019. Could Be Something Good, the first book in her new Timber Falls small-town romance series, is out now. Find out more about Fiona at http://www.fionawest.net or sign up for her newsletter at http://www.subscribepage.com/westwind.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
January 4, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for sending an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a cute love story. I really enjoyed it, although I disagreed with several of the choices Starla made. But the ending was sweet and satisfying. I loved the Star Wars references.
This was a cute love story. I really enjoyed it, although I disagreed with several of the choices Starla made. But the ending was sweet and satisfying. I loved the Star Wars references.
October 29, 2020
Thanks to the author and netgalley for the eARC.
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I loved it, which came as a surprise as I didn't really like the beginning, as it felt little cliché. Didn't know anything but the author's name. I am so glad I found it, gave me everything I needed.
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Being recently divorced and a single mom, Starla is struggling to find a foot with her job as a librarian. Also she needs to move out of her friend's apartment where she is cramped with her two kids. Sawyer, living in recluse due to his chronic illness finds in need of a friend to drive him around town. Living in a small town and having a lot of mutual friends, they fill in each other's requirements perfectly. Their relationship blossoms into something more.
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Libraries, book nerds, kids, heartwarming relationships, friendships and romance, it had everything I needed. I laughed out loud and got emotional. I thought some parts could have been less dramatic. It portrayed the difficulties of having a chronic illness, but it shows how in spite of all the difficulties and hurdles we can chase and live our dreams. I really loved how Sawyer and the kids got close, they were so adorable.
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For someone who hasn't read the previous books in the series, it might be a little difficult to wrap our head around all the character names.
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I loved it, which came as a surprise as I didn't really like the beginning, as it felt little cliché. Didn't know anything but the author's name. I am so glad I found it, gave me everything I needed.
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Being recently divorced and a single mom, Starla is struggling to find a foot with her job as a librarian. Also she needs to move out of her friend's apartment where she is cramped with her two kids. Sawyer, living in recluse due to his chronic illness finds in need of a friend to drive him around town. Living in a small town and having a lot of mutual friends, they fill in each other's requirements perfectly. Their relationship blossoms into something more.
.
Libraries, book nerds, kids, heartwarming relationships, friendships and romance, it had everything I needed. I laughed out loud and got emotional. I thought some parts could have been less dramatic. It portrayed the difficulties of having a chronic illness, but it shows how in spite of all the difficulties and hurdles we can chase and live our dreams. I really loved how Sawyer and the kids got close, they were so adorable.
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For someone who hasn't read the previous books in the series, it might be a little difficult to wrap our head around all the character names.
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January 31, 2021
Thank you Net Galley and Tempest and Kite Publishing for this arc.
A sweet, clean contemporary romance taking place in a small town. A slow burn story as both the main characters were a little shy with each other and a little lacking in self confidence. I still found them charming and relatable. An easy read for a rainy afternoon.
3.5 stars rated up.
A sweet, clean contemporary romance taking place in a small town. A slow burn story as both the main characters were a little shy with each other and a little lacking in self confidence. I still found them charming and relatable. An easy read for a rainy afternoon.
3.5 stars rated up.
December 23, 2020
More Than We Bargained For by Fiona West is the fourth book in the Timer Falls series. We see two main characters Starla Moore and Sawyer Devereaux. The story is about finding yourself after a divorce, love and much more.
Starla Moore is a single mom and recently divorced. She is temporary staying with her friend but is looking for a new place to stay since her friend Ainsley is moving out. She works at a library and is usually late for work due to single handedly handling her two kids - Emily and Aiden.
In this romantic comedy we get alot of country side vibes from both the characters, their flawless equally feel real to me. Both of them match just like a perfect puzzle piece. Sawyer is suffering from MS and Starla is pregnant with the baby of her ex-husband, both of them go through this difficult journey together.
This is a very cute yet heartwarming story where we don't see any sex scenes as well as is a very well narrated story. It's perfect in all terms, where we see a small town, meddling into eachother's business, town hall meetings, etc. Sawyer Devereaux is a gentleman and an angel. I also loved the concept of library and book fairies in this book
I would love for someone to be my book fairy and send me a box full of books literally every month 😂 here even the kids felt so real, rather than being a brat or a obedient ones. They were both, sweet and naughty at the same time. It was a joyful read.
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Thank You to NetGalley and Publisher 'Tempest & Kite' for eARC in exchange for a honest opinion.
Starla Moore is a single mom and recently divorced. She is temporary staying with her friend but is looking for a new place to stay since her friend Ainsley is moving out. She works at a library and is usually late for work due to single handedly handling her two kids - Emily and Aiden.
In this romantic comedy we get alot of country side vibes from both the characters, their flawless equally feel real to me. Both of them match just like a perfect puzzle piece. Sawyer is suffering from MS and Starla is pregnant with the baby of her ex-husband, both of them go through this difficult journey together.
This is a very cute yet heartwarming story where we don't see any sex scenes as well as is a very well narrated story. It's perfect in all terms, where we see a small town, meddling into eachother's business, town hall meetings, etc. Sawyer Devereaux is a gentleman and an angel. I also loved the concept of library and book fairies in this book
I would love for someone to be my book fairy and send me a box full of books literally every month 😂 here even the kids felt so real, rather than being a brat or a obedient ones. They were both, sweet and naughty at the same time. It was a joyful read.
____
Thank You to NetGalley and Publisher 'Tempest & Kite' for eARC in exchange for a honest opinion.
November 9, 2020
A cute read, it’s always lovely to read about book addicts because obviously it’s relatable, but this was a joy to read, a great distraction, great characters, lovely story, not all light and fluffy, book 4 in a series but I read as a stand-alone and I wasn’t lost , definitely going to read the others now
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Want to read
November 11, 202010.15.2020: This book is now on NetGalley as READ NOW! (Hint hint. Go read it now.) :) There's not much better than watching two shy people figuring out their dreams fall in love, and these two hold onto their denial as long as they can...also water fights. There are water fights. Enjoy, book buddies!
11.11.2020: It's out now on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited for the ebook! Thanks so much to everyone who's shared what they thought about; as always, you give me a lot to think about as I work on the next one! The paperback should be hitting your favorite indie bookstores any day now...
-Fiona
11.11.2020: It's out now on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited for the ebook! Thanks so much to everyone who's shared what they thought about; as always, you give me a lot to think about as I work on the next one! The paperback should be hitting your favorite indie bookstores any day now...
-Fiona
January 12, 2021
Super cute story!
First time I read the author, but I'm now looking forward to reading the rest of the the series. This is a standalone and I was able to pick it up without problems.
When the story starts, Starla is going through a divorce from a man who's never respected her. They have custody of the kids and she's staying with a friend but it's not ideal.
Sawyer has been coming to the library where she works and sending her books anonymously. When his health problems become worse and he can't drive for a while, he strikes a bargain with Starla: her driving in exchange for free housing.
This was an adorable story with real characters facing serious problems and changes in life. It's a clean romance, well written, and engaging.
I'll be looking to read the rest of the series.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
First time I read the author, but I'm now looking forward to reading the rest of the the series. This is a standalone and I was able to pick it up without problems.
When the story starts, Starla is going through a divorce from a man who's never respected her. They have custody of the kids and she's staying with a friend but it's not ideal.
Sawyer has been coming to the library where she works and sending her books anonymously. When his health problems become worse and he can't drive for a while, he strikes a bargain with Starla: her driving in exchange for free housing.
This was an adorable story with real characters facing serious problems and changes in life. It's a clean romance, well written, and engaging.
I'll be looking to read the rest of the series.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
February 14, 2021
Thank you so much to Tempest and Kite Publishing for providing me this arc via Netgalley! I loved everything about this - the cover, the title and the book itself. I have been craving a small town romance for a while, and this was perfect. I would have liked a little bit more of spice, but at the same time, I liked that the story wasn't overly sexual, as some romance novels. I don't even like children, but Starla's were absolutely adorable and reading about Sawyer's interactions with them absolutely melted my heart. The MS representation was a novelty as well, and appreciated, even if it was hard to read at times.
I'm also extremely interested in the other characters and would love to read about their stories!
I'm also extremely interested in the other characters and would love to read about their stories!
November 19, 2020
This was very well written, unique, and most of all a heartwarming story. First of all this is the first book that I’ve read from this Author Fiona West.
The book was written in the third person with dual point of view. The story took me by surprise, because I didn’t like the first few chapters of this book. But as I continue to read it, I started to like the main characters especially Starla. In the beginning she was a bit weak, but towards the end she remained strong, not a damsel in distress type of woman, and survived all the trials. And the same goes for Sawyer (he has his own issues too). Both of these characters are very relatable, they have their own weaknesses and most of all strengths.
This book was a part of a series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. Also this is definitely a slow burn with very little action (ahem). So if you’re looking for some cute and clean romance, this is definitely the one.
The book was written in the third person with dual point of view. The story took me by surprise, because I didn’t like the first few chapters of this book. But as I continue to read it, I started to like the main characters especially Starla. In the beginning she was a bit weak, but towards the end she remained strong, not a damsel in distress type of woman, and survived all the trials. And the same goes for Sawyer (he has his own issues too). Both of these characters are very relatable, they have their own weaknesses and most of all strengths.
This book was a part of a series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. Also this is definitely a slow burn with very little action (ahem). So if you’re looking for some cute and clean romance, this is definitely the one.
October 12, 2021
FREE today (October 12, 2021) on Amazon.
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
A cute, feel-good story, despite handling some serious issues, “More Than We Bargained For”, by Fiona West (Tempest and Kite Publishing), features a wounded beta hero adorably smitten with the heroine right from the beginning.
Sawyer’s secret crush is sweet, as is his personality: the honesty, the earnestness, the interactions with Starla’s children.
The perception that he could be unlovable because of his condition is crushing.
The story has a group of likeable side characters connected by family and friendship relations and affections are easily exchanged and expressed between them; there are lots of mundane activities that dragged the story pace a bit.
I liked the character of the heroine, although I had a hard time understanding her decision of moving.
I liked the way the author wrote Sawyer’s health issues. While the humiliation and embarrassment over the pants incidents were bravely described, without sugarcoating, I would expect them to have more lingering effects on the hero and the relationship with Starla.
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review
A cute, feel-good story, despite handling some serious issues, “More Than We Bargained For”, by Fiona West (Tempest and Kite Publishing), features a wounded beta hero adorably smitten with the heroine right from the beginning.
Sawyer’s secret crush is sweet, as is his personality: the honesty, the earnestness, the interactions with Starla’s children.
The perception that he could be unlovable because of his condition is crushing.
The story has a group of likeable side characters connected by family and friendship relations and affections are easily exchanged and expressed between them; there are lots of mundane activities that dragged the story pace a bit.
I liked the character of the heroine, although I had a hard time understanding her decision of moving.
I liked the way the author wrote Sawyer’s health issues. While the humiliation and embarrassment over the pants incidents were bravely described, without sugarcoating, I would expect them to have more lingering effects on the hero and the relationship with Starla.
November 8, 2020
The gorgeous cover and description intrigued me enough to request this on NetGalley, and there were some things I really enjoyed about this. I liked the set up of the plot, and the small town setting & wider cast of characters added a lot of charm to the story. This is part of a series but I had no issues reading as a standalone and it was easy to understand the characters and world building.
The disability/illness representation with Sawyer's MS was also great. It was clear it was well researched and the author didn't shy away from portraying some of the most upsetting aspects of the illness and how it impacted him emotionally as well as physically.
I was a little unsure about reading this when I realised there were no sex scenes, because that's usually a must for me in romance, but surprisingly I didn't miss the lack of steam here. However I think my main problem was I just didn't love the romance.
Sawyer was an absolute sweetheart but I never fully connected with Starla. Towards the end she became pretty unlikable and her decision to move cross-country despite it hurting every single person in her life (including her children) was kind of selfish and had me wanting to skim the last few chapters of the book.
I also took issue with the way Starla's relationship with her children was portrayed, especially her son Aiden. It's made clear that she only married her ex because she got pregnant as a teenager and it's hinted that she resents her son for this. I was expecting a conversation between Starla and Aiden where they overcame some of their issues but that never came which was super disappointing. Honestly almost every other character (Sawyer, Starla's ex Charlie, Ainsley, etc.) seemed like they had a better relationship with her children than Starla did.
I am in a reading slump so maybe this is influencing my review a little, but unfortunately this was kind of a slog to get through and I didn't love the main character. I would consider reading more from this author in the future because I enjoyed the small town setting and the writing style, but this was kind of a miss for me on the whole.
*I received a copy of this book for review from NetGalley. Thank you to the author and the publisher.*
The disability/illness representation with Sawyer's MS was also great. It was clear it was well researched and the author didn't shy away from portraying some of the most upsetting aspects of the illness and how it impacted him emotionally as well as physically.
I was a little unsure about reading this when I realised there were no sex scenes, because that's usually a must for me in romance, but surprisingly I didn't miss the lack of steam here. However I think my main problem was I just didn't love the romance.
Sawyer was an absolute sweetheart but I never fully connected with Starla. Towards the end she became pretty unlikable and her decision to move cross-country despite it hurting every single person in her life (including her children) was kind of selfish and had me wanting to skim the last few chapters of the book.
I also took issue with the way Starla's relationship with her children was portrayed, especially her son Aiden. It's made clear that she only married her ex because she got pregnant as a teenager and it's hinted that she resents her son for this. I was expecting a conversation between Starla and Aiden where they overcame some of their issues but that never came which was super disappointing. Honestly almost every other character (Sawyer, Starla's ex Charlie, Ainsley, etc.) seemed like they had a better relationship with her children than Starla did.
I am in a reading slump so maybe this is influencing my review a little, but unfortunately this was kind of a slog to get through and I didn't love the main character. I would consider reading more from this author in the future because I enjoyed the small town setting and the writing style, but this was kind of a miss for me on the whole.
*I received a copy of this book for review from NetGalley. Thank you to the author and the publisher.*
November 9, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read an advanced copy of this book!
This book was so heartwarming because of how it showed with normal people can have romance and happily ever after without their lives magically becoming picture perfect. Starla is a mom of two, with a third on the way in the middle of her divorce. Sawyer keeps to himself, with a mysterious past and worries about a chronic illness that keeps him from wanting to pursue relationships. There's some really cute stuff, such as how Starla is a librarian who loves to give book recommendations and is charmingly frustrated that Sawyer just keeps reading the same books over and over. And don't forget the book fairy who anonymously donates brand new books to the small town library every week! But there's also plenty of messy stuff. Starla has really complicated feelings about her family and her pregnancy, and she is stubborn about not asking for help. Sawyer is dealing with a resurgence of his illness which leads to quite a few scenes where he loses control of his body in a public place. What's so special about this romance is how you get the messiness of real life and real problems, but also plenty of adorable moments and love.
I had a few quibbles about this book--the trope of Starla taking forever to realize she's pregnant (particularly when it's referenced in the cover copy), the annoying ex was infuriating, and the structure with chapters that were sometimes super short and that didn't consistently alternate between our hero and heroine's points of view. But really overall I was so pleased to discover this book! I'm so glad I picked it up. As the cover copy mentions, there are no open-door sex scenes. So this book had a little less physical chemistry than I usually read, but the big emotions really made the story.
Something that really made this book stand out was the ending.
This book was so heartwarming because of how it showed with normal people can have romance and happily ever after without their lives magically becoming picture perfect. Starla is a mom of two, with a third on the way in the middle of her divorce. Sawyer keeps to himself, with a mysterious past and worries about a chronic illness that keeps him from wanting to pursue relationships. There's some really cute stuff, such as how Starla is a librarian who loves to give book recommendations and is charmingly frustrated that Sawyer just keeps reading the same books over and over. And don't forget the book fairy who anonymously donates brand new books to the small town library every week! But there's also plenty of messy stuff. Starla has really complicated feelings about her family and her pregnancy, and she is stubborn about not asking for help. Sawyer is dealing with a resurgence of his illness which leads to quite a few scenes where he loses control of his body in a public place. What's so special about this romance is how you get the messiness of real life and real problems, but also plenty of adorable moments and love.
I had a few quibbles about this book--the trope of Starla taking forever to realize she's pregnant (particularly when it's referenced in the cover copy), the annoying ex was infuriating, and the structure with chapters that were sometimes super short and that didn't consistently alternate between our hero and heroine's points of view. But really overall I was so pleased to discover this book! I'm so glad I picked it up. As the cover copy mentions, there are no open-door sex scenes. So this book had a little less physical chemistry than I usually read, but the big emotions really made the story.
Something that really made this book stand out was the ending.
November 11, 2020
With perfect banter and writing, West’s fourth novel in the Timber Falls series, More Than We Bargained for, pulls you right in.
For a person who has recently found discovered a love for adult romances, More Than We Bargained For, was a welcome surprise. I loved the small town setting, the meddling neighbours, clingy ex, and the temperamental children! It was their loveliness (and annoying nature, at times), that truly made the difference and gave this book such a a heartwarming vibe.
Starla is a recently divorced mom of two young kids. Unfortunately, she is now down on her luck. As such, all of the difficulties she faces, and the way she reacts to them, makes her so real. As I read on, I couldn’t help but chuckle remembering the impulsive decisions I have made in my life, all the meddling I’ve had to face from my relatives and friends. And it made me feel so close to Starla!
Sawyer and depiction of a chronic illness
As for Sawyer, he is a lovely man. I think More Than We Bargained For has to be the second book I have read, which features a protagonist with a chronic illness, the first being in The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang. There are so many layers to him and I loved getting to know him more and more, as I read on. Well, to be perfectly honest, I was moping and indulging in self-pity, totally jealous of Starla for landing this wonderful man, hah!
Let’s talk about another aspect – the kids. In many books, the kids are either too obedient and hardly ever cause any trouble (so not realistic), or not in the picture at all! I was quite happy with the way they were portrayed in this book – sweet, often surly, and naughty. Having raised almost 10 cousins and a sibling, I should know! I quite enjoyed their bantering too. And their relationship with Sawyer – oh my my! My ovaries were cooing.
Verdict:
Before I turn this blog post into a love letter for Sawyer, I shall take my leave. But not before stressing on how much I enjoyed reading More Than We Bargained For! I am thinking of picking up the first book in this series so stay tuned for that one too! I rather More Than We bargained For a 4/5 stars.
For a person who has recently found discovered a love for adult romances, More Than We Bargained For, was a welcome surprise. I loved the small town setting, the meddling neighbours, clingy ex, and the temperamental children! It was their loveliness (and annoying nature, at times), that truly made the difference and gave this book such a a heartwarming vibe.
Starla is a recently divorced mom of two young kids. Unfortunately, she is now down on her luck. As such, all of the difficulties she faces, and the way she reacts to them, makes her so real. As I read on, I couldn’t help but chuckle remembering the impulsive decisions I have made in my life, all the meddling I’ve had to face from my relatives and friends. And it made me feel so close to Starla!
Sawyer and depiction of a chronic illness
As for Sawyer, he is a lovely man. I think More Than We Bargained For has to be the second book I have read, which features a protagonist with a chronic illness, the first being in The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang. There are so many layers to him and I loved getting to know him more and more, as I read on. Well, to be perfectly honest, I was moping and indulging in self-pity, totally jealous of Starla for landing this wonderful man, hah!
Let’s talk about another aspect – the kids. In many books, the kids are either too obedient and hardly ever cause any trouble (so not realistic), or not in the picture at all! I was quite happy with the way they were portrayed in this book – sweet, often surly, and naughty. Having raised almost 10 cousins and a sibling, I should know! I quite enjoyed their bantering too. And their relationship with Sawyer – oh my my! My ovaries were cooing.
Verdict:
Before I turn this blog post into a love letter for Sawyer, I shall take my leave. But not before stressing on how much I enjoyed reading More Than We Bargained For! I am thinking of picking up the first book in this series so stay tuned for that one too! I rather More Than We bargained For a 4/5 stars.
December 3, 2020
*Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC*
This was an adorable romance! If you like a closed-door slow burn romance, then this is the read for you. I appreciate that the author allowed both characters to remain their own persons and have their own individual passions/goals. The characters came together as a couple but still had their individuality. I especially love that we have librarian representation!
I really appreciate the idea of a book fairy and honestly, that was wonderful to show courtship. I also appreciate that we have a man that showcases all his emotions and is not afraid to cry.
Now I gave this book a 4 out of 5 stars because as much as I enjoyed it there were some ‘issues’ that were resolved too quickly. This definitely wraps up things a little too quickly for my tastes, but I did love almost everything else about it. The writing style was lovely and the author knows how to weave a beautiful love story! I definitely recommend this if you want an adorable quick read romance.
This was an adorable romance! If you like a closed-door slow burn romance, then this is the read for you. I appreciate that the author allowed both characters to remain their own persons and have their own individual passions/goals. The characters came together as a couple but still had their individuality. I especially love that we have librarian representation!
I really appreciate the idea of a book fairy and honestly, that was wonderful to show courtship. I also appreciate that we have a man that showcases all his emotions and is not afraid to cry.
Now I gave this book a 4 out of 5 stars because as much as I enjoyed it there were some ‘issues’ that were resolved too quickly. This definitely wraps up things a little too quickly for my tastes, but I did love almost everything else about it. The writing style was lovely and the author knows how to weave a beautiful love story! I definitely recommend this if you want an adorable quick read romance.
October 20, 2020
I LOVE Fiona West's titles in this series especially, each one just brings me a lot of joy!
Quick reads with a lot of heart, I was anxiously awaiting Starla's story, as she's had a bit of a rough time throughout the other books in the series & I just could not WAIT for her to get her own book! I mean how could I not have a special place in my heart for the town librarian?!
The perfect small town romance, I found Starla as a main character so different in a good way, and in ways that made her SO relatable. While Charlie may not be the man for her, he is a much better ex once he realizes she's gone for good and I really appreciated seeing this all play out on the pages in a refreshing way. It's not often a romance goes past the fluffy good stuff and gives great character depth on both sides of the relationship, and I absolutely loved this about this title.
Sawyer is just what Starla deserved after all this time, and as always, Timber Falls is full of some of the BEST book boyfriends. Thanks Fiona for another fantastic book! 4.5 stars from me!
Quick reads with a lot of heart, I was anxiously awaiting Starla's story, as she's had a bit of a rough time throughout the other books in the series & I just could not WAIT for her to get her own book! I mean how could I not have a special place in my heart for the town librarian?!
The perfect small town romance, I found Starla as a main character so different in a good way, and in ways that made her SO relatable. While Charlie may not be the man for her, he is a much better ex once he realizes she's gone for good and I really appreciated seeing this all play out on the pages in a refreshing way. It's not often a romance goes past the fluffy good stuff and gives great character depth on both sides of the relationship, and I absolutely loved this about this title.
Sawyer is just what Starla deserved after all this time, and as always, Timber Falls is full of some of the BEST book boyfriends. Thanks Fiona for another fantastic book! 4.5 stars from me!
October 17, 2020
It appears that I have found a new series to catch up on. I love it when that happens! This was a sweet, small town romance about two people who worry about the baggage they would bring into a relationship but who take care of each other selflessly even though they are afraid. Starla is coming out of a marriage with two kids, wounded feelings, and a husband who won’t believe that she has truly met her limit. Sawyer had his life upended and now tries to avoid his hovering family members and gain some control over his life. When he learns that Starla needs help he jumps forward to offer her a safe place to land. Neither of them have simple lives but they both have huge hearts. The book also demonstrates the good and the bad of small town living which I thought was an interesting element.
So glad I read this book on a whim and looking forward to going back to the first book in the series.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
So glad I read this book on a whim and looking forward to going back to the first book in the series.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2020
Starla Moore is dealing with divorcing her ex and her two children as well as the talk around town that she won’t go through the divorce. She also works at the library where once a week she receives a box of mysterious books. She is wondering where they come from. She also has a crush on Sawyer Devereaux, or maybe a fixation really.
Sawyer likes Starla and her two children but has a secret of his own. It is not until they each can help each other that it is revealed. He finally tells her what his health problem is and though he does not think he can have any type of life. It’s not until Starla lives in a different town that he starts to think otherwise and then the two may think they each can have a life together.
I liked the characters and the feel of the story. I did think at times it did drag a bit but overall, it was a good story. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars. Follow us at
www.1rad-readerreviews.com
Sawyer likes Starla and her two children but has a secret of his own. It is not until they each can help each other that it is revealed. He finally tells her what his health problem is and though he does not think he can have any type of life. It’s not until Starla lives in a different town that he starts to think otherwise and then the two may think they each can have a life together.
I liked the characters and the feel of the story. I did think at times it did drag a bit but overall, it was a good story. I received this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars. Follow us at
www.1rad-readerreviews.com
October 10, 2021
This is the first book by Fiona West I read and just as the cover, it was extremly cute with a fair share of real worldness thrown in.
A story about two people going through rough pastches and united by their love of books, what more could you ask for?
The characters are really cute and the way they come together was everything. the thing that i like the most is the way they are real people with real problems that still have a happily ever after even if the pad ain't all happy smiles and pretty roses.
A story about two people going through rough pastches and united by their love of books, what more could you ask for?
The characters are really cute and the way they come together was everything. the thing that i like the most is the way they are real people with real problems that still have a happily ever after even if the pad ain't all happy smiles and pretty roses.
November 1, 2020
*𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘺 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘷𝘪𝘢 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸
I really enjoyed this book. The writing style was easy to follow along with characters were interesting.
This was quick read for me me, Starla and Sawyer are cute together, I really liked her kids and Sawyer got close.
I would definitely recommend this to someone who is looking for light contemporary book.
I really enjoyed this book. The writing style was easy to follow along with characters were interesting.
This was quick read for me me, Starla and Sawyer are cute together, I really liked her kids and Sawyer got close.
I would definitely recommend this to someone who is looking for light contemporary book.
December 30, 2020
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by Fiona West and I was pleasantly surprised. More Than We Bargained For follows Starla, a librarian who’s going through a divorce and trying to navigate her life with two kids, and Sawyer, who’s been secretly crushing on Starla for years. After he suffers from a seizure at the library, Starla is determined to help him out as a chauffeur and as a thanks, she and her kids get to live next door to Sawyer.
Both Starla and Sawyer are easily lovable characters with a lot of depth. Their relationship starts out as a genuine friendship but soon develops into something bigger. You see them slowly falling in love and you can’t help but root for them because they’re so adorable. They had amazing chemistry and all of their scenes together were nothing but perfect. Though as much as I enjoyed the romance, I loved how it wasn’t the only thing going on. There was Sawyer struggling with serious health issues and rediscovering his passion and his love for life, and Starla dealing with her ex-husband and following her own dreams. I also loved the dynamics between all of the characters, especially seeing Starla care for her kids and Sawyer opening up to them.
The ending was so wholesome and satisfying, and I can’t wait to check out the rest of the series!
This was my first book by Fiona West and I was pleasantly surprised. More Than We Bargained For follows Starla, a librarian who’s going through a divorce and trying to navigate her life with two kids, and Sawyer, who’s been secretly crushing on Starla for years. After he suffers from a seizure at the library, Starla is determined to help him out as a chauffeur and as a thanks, she and her kids get to live next door to Sawyer.
Both Starla and Sawyer are easily lovable characters with a lot of depth. Their relationship starts out as a genuine friendship but soon develops into something bigger. You see them slowly falling in love and you can’t help but root for them because they’re so adorable. They had amazing chemistry and all of their scenes together were nothing but perfect. Though as much as I enjoyed the romance, I loved how it wasn’t the only thing going on. There was Sawyer struggling with serious health issues and rediscovering his passion and his love for life, and Starla dealing with her ex-husband and following her own dreams. I also loved the dynamics between all of the characters, especially seeing Starla care for her kids and Sawyer opening up to them.
The ending was so wholesome and satisfying, and I can’t wait to check out the rest of the series!
October 29, 2020
My kingdom for a romance in which everyone is emotionally mature! Like Fiona West's other Timber Falls books, this is soft and kind--it's not the type of book in which there will be a huge dramatic fallout over a misunderstanding, but rather one in which the tension comes from the protagonists' wanting or needing different things than from cheap drama.
In MORE THAN WE BARGAINED FOR, Starla is coming off a painful divorce with an ex-husband who thinks she's going to come back at any moment while adjusting to life as a single mom; Sawyer, a surgeon-turned-motorcycle-repairman, is struggling to envision his changed future after being diagnosed with a chronic illness that has left him unable to perform surgery and with doubts about his value and worth as a long-term romantic partner.
Overall, this book is enormously charming. It isn't strictly necessary, but perhaps worth reading the rest of the Timber Falls series before reading this book--the characters from books one and two feature prominently, and the wedding of the hero and heroine from the second installment is a key plot point--but the whole series is worth reading. Perfect for fans of Olivia Dade.
In MORE THAN WE BARGAINED FOR, Starla is coming off a painful divorce with an ex-husband who thinks she's going to come back at any moment while adjusting to life as a single mom; Sawyer, a surgeon-turned-motorcycle-repairman, is struggling to envision his changed future after being diagnosed with a chronic illness that has left him unable to perform surgery and with doubts about his value and worth as a long-term romantic partner.
Overall, this book is enormously charming. It isn't strictly necessary, but perhaps worth reading the rest of the Timber Falls series before reading this book--the characters from books one and two feature prominently, and the wedding of the hero and heroine from the second installment is a key plot point--but the whole series is worth reading. Perfect for fans of Olivia Dade.
November 4, 2020
This was the kind of book that puts a smile on your face. Small town romance with some serious subjects handled in a beautiful way. Starla and Sawyer were so cute together. I loved the sweet, slow burn feel of this book. I really enjoyed it.
I received an arc of this book.
I received an arc of this book.
April 12, 2021
eARC received from Netgalley.
This was the first book I've read of the series, but you definitely do not need to read the other books to grasp this one. It explores themes of overcoming hardships, opening oneself up to new and terrifying experiences, complicated family dynamics, divorce, the lovely concepts of small towns coming together, and it's basically the softest comfort read for any romance book enthusiast or book lover. You can't help but fall for the two main characters, their love for each other is so pure and they work well to support one another. The writing is clever and amusing. The banter is natural and the heaviest scenes are dealt with care and the resolution.
This was the first book I've read of the series, but you definitely do not need to read the other books to grasp this one. It explores themes of overcoming hardships, opening oneself up to new and terrifying experiences, complicated family dynamics, divorce, the lovely concepts of small towns coming together, and it's basically the softest comfort read for any romance book enthusiast or book lover. You can't help but fall for the two main characters, their love for each other is so pure and they work well to support one another. The writing is clever and amusing. The banter is natural and the heaviest scenes are dealt with care and the resolution.
January 16, 2021
Such a cute small-town romance.
Starla is going through a divorce, taking care of her two kids, while working as a librarian in the town. She's doing her best but she is making plans to leave the town to escape the whispers from people regarding her past relationship.
Sawyer is the sweetest and softest hero. He is SO smitten by Starla right from the start (can't say if there was some development in the previous books already). He donates brand new books anonymously every week at the library Starla works for but really it's just one thing he does to try to make her happy.
Such a sweet story. They supported each other in many ways. They become close friends first then lovers. He also makes an effort to take care of and grow closer to her kids. Sawyer knows she is having a tough time so he just wants to be there for her. And on the other hand, Starla is also helping out Sawyer. This is the first book I’ve read in this series but it was easy to follow.
Starla is going through a divorce, taking care of her two kids, while working as a librarian in the town. She's doing her best but she is making plans to leave the town to escape the whispers from people regarding her past relationship.
Sawyer is the sweetest and softest hero. He is SO smitten by Starla right from the start (can't say if there was some development in the previous books already). He donates brand new books anonymously every week at the library Starla works for but really it's just one thing he does to try to make her happy.
Such a sweet story. They supported each other in many ways. They become close friends first then lovers. He also makes an effort to take care of and grow closer to her kids. Sawyer knows she is having a tough time so he just wants to be there for her. And on the other hand, Starla is also helping out Sawyer. This is the first book I’ve read in this series but it was easy to follow.
February 28, 2021
Books, small towns, and romance...what more could one want in a cozy romance? In “More Than We Bargained For,” readers follow Starla Moore, recent divorcee, librarian, and mother of two, in her quest to find her own way post-divorce and maybe fall in love. With obstacles (both financial and social) popping up, Starla Moore finds a friend and confidant in Sawyer Devereaux. When Starla and her kids move into the cabin near his, sparks begin to fly.
This book was so cozy and sweet! I really enjoyed reading it. The banter between Starla and Sawyer had me laughing, and I loved how Starla’s kids were characters in their own right, not just props to Starla’s story. Sawyer had his own issues to work out, and the two main characters truly supported each other and didn’t rely solely on the other for happiness, which made for some very sweet moments. While this story is part of a series, I didn’t have to read the preceding three to understand it (though I definitely will have to check them out since I liked this one so much!).
I would recommend this book for those who enjoy romance, stories with busy-body neighbor interference, light reads, and happily ever afters.
I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review
This book was so cozy and sweet! I really enjoyed reading it. The banter between Starla and Sawyer had me laughing, and I loved how Starla’s kids were characters in their own right, not just props to Starla’s story. Sawyer had his own issues to work out, and the two main characters truly supported each other and didn’t rely solely on the other for happiness, which made for some very sweet moments. While this story is part of a series, I didn’t have to read the preceding three to understand it (though I definitely will have to check them out since I liked this one so much!).
I would recommend this book for those who enjoy romance, stories with busy-body neighbor interference, light reads, and happily ever afters.
I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review
January 12, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for sending an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was so sweet! When I first read the synopsis, I thought that maybe it wouldn't be my jam, since I usually only read YAs, but I decided to give it a try and I didn't regret it!
Starla Moore is a single mom and recently divorced. She is temporarily staying with her friend but is looking for a new place to stay since her friend Ainsley is moving out. She works at a library and is usually late for work due to single-handedly handling her two kids - Emily and Aiden.
It's such a good romantic comedy, with a lot of countryside vibes and the chemistry between Sawyer and Starla was really beautifully written. I especially loved their talks about books and all the SW references.
This story made me feel warm inside and it's a perfect read for a rainy day.
This book was so sweet! When I first read the synopsis, I thought that maybe it wouldn't be my jam, since I usually only read YAs, but I decided to give it a try and I didn't regret it!
Starla Moore is a single mom and recently divorced. She is temporarily staying with her friend but is looking for a new place to stay since her friend Ainsley is moving out. She works at a library and is usually late for work due to single-handedly handling her two kids - Emily and Aiden.
It's such a good romantic comedy, with a lot of countryside vibes and the chemistry between Sawyer and Starla was really beautifully written. I especially loved their talks about books and all the SW references.
This story made me feel warm inside and it's a perfect read for a rainy day.
November 20, 2020
I was provided with an arc in exchange for an honest review. This hasn't affected my review whatsoever.
The first thing that you should know about me is that I am trash for small town romances, even though I don't really live in a small town and most of the times the plot of all small town books somehow look the same to me. But does that discourage me to read them and love them? NO.
First of all, I really liked the setting of the book. I can't begin to geek over how beautiful Timber Falls sounded and the fact that I really want to read all the books in this series. The side characters managed to be intriguing for me because I haven't read the previous books and they constantly urged me to know more about them. Secondly, I appreciated the character development I could see in Starla, Sawyer and even Charlie. Yes, I have heard of the instances where partners don't leave each other because of so and so reasons but honestly if I couldn't keep up with the character of Charlie. Thirdly, I really appreciated how the topics of Divorce, Pregnancy and MS were dealt. And last but not the least, the romance part itself was really good.
I know there are people in this universe who believe that they are the center of everything and despite their wrongdoings, nothing will happen to them but this guy was insufferable. Even after the fact that Starla clearly told him that there was no chance of them getting back together and the fact that he was caught by her in the process of cheating on her, he still had the audacity to pester her about her moving back with him. Does his character improve? Well he did realize his 'mistakes' and was ready to do anything to make Starla forgive him and since it isn't a fantasy novel, I am okay with this development. He was kinda sufferable in the end so I guess it's alright.
As for Starla's character and Sawyer's character, I liked how they functioned. Starla is a fellow bookworm (bonus points) and to put the expression nicely, she is upright and really good. Same goes for Sawyer.
Now I don't know if its just me but I couldn't overlook the statements Starla's parents made to her about how she should go back to Charlie and the fact that he will take her (at least two times I guess). And even when it was clearly displayed how Starla kind of announced to everyone that she's officially no longer her wife and everything, I would have liked I directly statement or something to this particular comment. That's something that kind of bothered me. And another thing was some conservative thoughts here and there which I know were necessary to show that they were conservative but sometimes I just wanted to go in there and punch the townsfolks. No hard feelings.
I guess that's it. The rest of the things were just so beautiful that I finished this book... which is a big thing considering it was the first book that I could read and finish after the reading slump hit me. Ugh, those ugly days when I couldn't read :((
*Setting: 5/5 stars
*Plot: 4.5/5 stars
*Characters: 4/5 stars
*Writing style: 4/5 stars
*Overall: 4.5 stars
The first thing that you should know about me is that I am trash for small town romances, even though I don't really live in a small town and most of the times the plot of all small town books somehow look the same to me. But does that discourage me to read them and love them? NO.
First of all, I really liked the setting of the book. I can't begin to geek over how beautiful Timber Falls sounded and the fact that I really want to read all the books in this series. The side characters managed to be intriguing for me because I haven't read the previous books and they constantly urged me to know more about them. Secondly, I appreciated the character development I could see in Starla, Sawyer and even Charlie. Yes, I have heard of the instances where partners don't leave each other because of so and so reasons but honestly if I couldn't keep up with the character of Charlie. Thirdly, I really appreciated how the topics of Divorce, Pregnancy and MS were dealt. And last but not the least, the romance part itself was really good.
I know there are people in this universe who believe that they are the center of everything and despite their wrongdoings, nothing will happen to them but this guy was insufferable. Even after the fact that Starla clearly told him that there was no chance of them getting back together and the fact that he was caught by her in the process of cheating on her, he still had the audacity to pester her about her moving back with him. Does his character improve? Well he did realize his 'mistakes' and was ready to do anything to make Starla forgive him and since it isn't a fantasy novel, I am okay with this development. He was kinda sufferable in the end so I guess it's alright.
As for Starla's character and Sawyer's character, I liked how they functioned. Starla is a fellow bookworm (bonus points) and to put the expression nicely, she is upright and really good. Same goes for Sawyer.
Now I don't know if its just me but I couldn't overlook the statements Starla's parents made to her about how she should go back to Charlie and the fact that he will take her (at least two times I guess). And even when it was clearly displayed how Starla kind of announced to everyone that she's officially no longer her wife and everything, I would have liked I directly statement or something to this particular comment. That's something that kind of bothered me. And another thing was some conservative thoughts here and there which I know were necessary to show that they were conservative but sometimes I just wanted to go in there and punch the townsfolks. No hard feelings.
I guess that's it. The rest of the things were just so beautiful that I finished this book... which is a big thing considering it was the first book that I could read and finish after the reading slump hit me. Ugh, those ugly days when I couldn't read :((
*Setting: 5/5 stars
*Plot: 4.5/5 stars
*Characters: 4/5 stars
*Writing style: 4/5 stars
*Overall: 4.5 stars
October 19, 2020
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Huh. I think this is the first romance I ever read that takes place at someone's 'mid-age' where she has two kids with another on the way and currently wrapping up her divorce to a man who simply CANNOT believe anyone would leave him no matter how despicable his actions. SURPIRSE, B*%#$ Ahem. Sorry. I've read plenty shallow ones (in comparison) about the after, but never to during.
Starla is a librarian in her small town of Timber Falls. She's as good as divorced, something the local residence seem to have a hard time grasping. Out-layer, Sawyer Devereaux is secretly glad. He's had a thing for Starla for years and hated watching her suffer from a distance. He tried to cheer her up in his own way, secretly dropping off a box of books at her work once a week. But when his health condition interferes he gets something even better, Starla and her kids living right next door and Starla as his personal chauffeur because she's doing HIM a favor. ;-)
This is an interesting book. Maybe it's because the author does go a bit more in depth on feelings and such. I mean, as an example, Charlie was an adultering idiot who thought his wife would NEVER leave HIM because he's just...such a catch. But he wasn't JUST that. He was a loving dad, for one. Most romances just paint the ex as the bad guy, but in this one he's just painted as a guy who treated his wife poorly, and slept around on her. However, he's great with their kids and wants to be actively involved in their lives and when he FINALLY gets it through his thick skull that Starla is leaving him for good, he has a complete emotional meltdown (in a healthy way), and eventually tells her he just wants her to be happy because he knows he screwed up their lives. In the end he still wants to be friends with her and be around for his kids. He's even there for the birth of their 3rd child. I think that's a pretty good relationship goal to have coming out of a divorce.
Now, apply that journey and result to both Starla's and Sawyer's individual issues and you can see why this isn't 'just' a romance. This book actually talks about its character like they are real, live people with depth and dimension. They have their own issues and their own ways of working them out. I LOVED that. Not to mention Sawyer is a bit of a softy. That's not usually featured in a romance, a guy with a soft heart he's not ashamed of showing. It was kind of cute. lol
Conclusion
This book may not be for everyone, but if you are looking for a pretty clean and fluffy romance that feels like something that could be straight out of real life, this one is definitely for you!
Huh. I think this is the first romance I ever read that takes place at someone's 'mid-age' where she has two kids with another on the way and currently wrapping up her divorce to a man who simply CANNOT believe anyone would leave him no matter how despicable his actions. SURPIRSE, B*%#$ Ahem. Sorry. I've read plenty shallow ones (in comparison) about the after, but never to during.
Starla is a librarian in her small town of Timber Falls. She's as good as divorced, something the local residence seem to have a hard time grasping. Out-layer, Sawyer Devereaux is secretly glad. He's had a thing for Starla for years and hated watching her suffer from a distance. He tried to cheer her up in his own way, secretly dropping off a box of books at her work once a week. But when his health condition interferes he gets something even better, Starla and her kids living right next door and Starla as his personal chauffeur because she's doing HIM a favor. ;-)
This is an interesting book. Maybe it's because the author does go a bit more in depth on feelings and such. I mean, as an example, Charlie was an adultering idiot who thought his wife would NEVER leave HIM because he's just...such a catch. But he wasn't JUST that. He was a loving dad, for one. Most romances just paint the ex as the bad guy, but in this one he's just painted as a guy who treated his wife poorly, and slept around on her. However, he's great with their kids and wants to be actively involved in their lives and when he FINALLY gets it through his thick skull that Starla is leaving him for good, he has a complete emotional meltdown (in a healthy way), and eventually tells her he just wants her to be happy because he knows he screwed up their lives. In the end he still wants to be friends with her and be around for his kids. He's even there for the birth of their 3rd child. I think that's a pretty good relationship goal to have coming out of a divorce.
Now, apply that journey and result to both Starla's and Sawyer's individual issues and you can see why this isn't 'just' a romance. This book actually talks about its character like they are real, live people with depth and dimension. They have their own issues and their own ways of working them out. I LOVED that. Not to mention Sawyer is a bit of a softy. That's not usually featured in a romance, a guy with a soft heart he's not ashamed of showing. It was kind of cute. lol
Conclusion
This book may not be for everyone, but if you are looking for a pretty clean and fluffy romance that feels like something that could be straight out of real life, this one is definitely for you!
November 4, 2020
More Than We Bargained For is a lovely romance about a mother of two going through a divorce and a man known as the hermit of the town, a doctor before his illness took his chance. As both navigate their own complicated lives full of little hiccups, they try not to daydream too much about their unequal chemistry. They each have too much going on already, and how can they enter a relationship when they already have too much on their own plate?
Where can I start with this review. This is not what I normally read. Don't get me wrong, I love me some romance, but I've never read one that wasn't focused on lustful teenagers. And what a difference does it make when the characters you follow are adults who actually think with their heads and hearts instead of their genitalia. I thought I would get bored of following an older lead, but Starla is everything but boring. I found myself already one third into the book on my first read, identifying with her love for recommending books, her fear of the future, and the exasperated tiredness of the judgement around her. She isn't flawless, but she is a strong lead. Strong, loving, caring and she tries so hard to do the right thing. Her constant fight between taking care of herself and doing what was expected was so inspirational at the end of the read. West is really good and portraying how a difficult situation makes you feel.
I fell in love with Sawyer too, especially because the reader is able to read from his perspective so we get to know him as much as Starla. The only thing I could pick on him is that it's obvious this is a man written by a woman because I cannot believe that such a perfect man exists. Yes, he has his issues too, but most of them are not character flaws, just medical. And that shouldn't count as a flaw at all, because whether someone is able or disabled, you can still be a good or shitty person. I understand his problem was that he didn't want to be a burden to anyone who had to take care of him because of his illness, but he could have had something else going on too. At the end of the day, he was just too good. Which, I mean, if what you're looking for is a romance book, its way better to have a too good romantic lead than a batboy with good intentions who ends up playing with you. Just saying.
The pace of the novel is good, it went by so fast for me I almost could not believe how it easy it is to read. The romance warms your heart and its great if you really just want a happy feel good book, but that is still realistic. I must say I did found myself getting annoyed by Starla's ex-husband, but that was to be expected. I mean, thats what you are meant to feel. You'll understand when you read it. But overall its a really good read, an amazing sow burn romance and while the end is a little of a trip with one too many circles, you'll find yourself smiling at it.
Where can I start with this review. This is not what I normally read. Don't get me wrong, I love me some romance, but I've never read one that wasn't focused on lustful teenagers. And what a difference does it make when the characters you follow are adults who actually think with their heads and hearts instead of their genitalia. I thought I would get bored of following an older lead, but Starla is everything but boring. I found myself already one third into the book on my first read, identifying with her love for recommending books, her fear of the future, and the exasperated tiredness of the judgement around her. She isn't flawless, but she is a strong lead. Strong, loving, caring and she tries so hard to do the right thing. Her constant fight between taking care of herself and doing what was expected was so inspirational at the end of the read. West is really good and portraying how a difficult situation makes you feel.
I fell in love with Sawyer too, especially because the reader is able to read from his perspective so we get to know him as much as Starla. The only thing I could pick on him is that it's obvious this is a man written by a woman because I cannot believe that such a perfect man exists. Yes, he has his issues too, but most of them are not character flaws, just medical. And that shouldn't count as a flaw at all, because whether someone is able or disabled, you can still be a good or shitty person. I understand his problem was that he didn't want to be a burden to anyone who had to take care of him because of his illness, but he could have had something else going on too. At the end of the day, he was just too good. Which, I mean, if what you're looking for is a romance book, its way better to have a too good romantic lead than a batboy with good intentions who ends up playing with you. Just saying.
The pace of the novel is good, it went by so fast for me I almost could not believe how it easy it is to read. The romance warms your heart and its great if you really just want a happy feel good book, but that is still realistic. I must say I did found myself getting annoyed by Starla's ex-husband, but that was to be expected. I mean, thats what you are meant to feel. You'll understand when you read it. But overall its a really good read, an amazing sow burn romance and while the end is a little of a trip with one too many circles, you'll find yourself smiling at it.
November 13, 2020
More Than We Bargained For by Fiona West is a feel good romance novel for me. Starla Moore is a librarian, which is every booklover's dream and she is very devoted to her sincerely paying job and her two kids. Sawyer Devereaux is a handsome young man, diagonased with Multiple Sclerosis, who is apparently smitten with Starla but cannot find a way to voice out his affection. Turns out they eventually start hanging out with each other, brought together by the mutual love for books.
The blurb was enough to convince me to read the book. Books, romance and more books with more romance. Perfect! The characters are so vivid and beautifully drawn, I could actually see them in my head, walking and chatting and just being. I found Starla so innocent and charming, but at times more laid-back. She has a problem with humiliation, definitely, because she is so cautious of getting herself and the others humiliated that she sometimes seems stupid to me. The most problematic statement of hers was when Sawyer, due to his medical condition, involuntarily did something he had no control over and Starla who was spectacularly handling the situation until she thought 'how humiliating, poor Sawyer.' I mean, are medical conditions humiliating? The moment I read this, I felt so strongly for Sawyer; and for Starla to be punched in the face. And I couldn't get that out of my mind till the end of the book, no matter how I loved Starla's character, I could not bring myself to relate to her in any way, might have even lost respect for her.
There's another character, Charlie, Starla's ex-husband, who's a misogynist in every possible way. He tries to get back with her by having her financially and emotionally destitute. He blames her for their son's misbehavior because, apparently, kids go wrong because of their mothers' upbringing (Don't even get me started on that).
As for Sawyer, I adored him. He's every bit a book boyfriend material. Intelligent, brilliant even, smart, handsome, caring, supporting and loving.
I related with Sawyer a bit more I could with Starla. The book stands in line and simultaneously in contrast with 'The Kiss Quotient' by Helen Hoang, which is another romance book with mention of disability. I couldn't help but compare both and I found out that 'More than We Bargained For' is more realistic and relatable. The disability wasn't just for the sake of being a trope but it's presence was palpable. The author did a great job in weaving both the tropes together.
The blurb was enough to convince me to read the book. Books, romance and more books with more romance. Perfect! The characters are so vivid and beautifully drawn, I could actually see them in my head, walking and chatting and just being. I found Starla so innocent and charming, but at times more laid-back. She has a problem with humiliation, definitely, because she is so cautious of getting herself and the others humiliated that she sometimes seems stupid to me. The most problematic statement of hers was when Sawyer, due to his medical condition, involuntarily did something he had no control over and Starla who was spectacularly handling the situation until she thought 'how humiliating, poor Sawyer.' I mean, are medical conditions humiliating? The moment I read this, I felt so strongly for Sawyer; and for Starla to be punched in the face. And I couldn't get that out of my mind till the end of the book, no matter how I loved Starla's character, I could not bring myself to relate to her in any way, might have even lost respect for her.
There's another character, Charlie, Starla's ex-husband, who's a misogynist in every possible way. He tries to get back with her by having her financially and emotionally destitute. He blames her for their son's misbehavior because, apparently, kids go wrong because of their mothers' upbringing (Don't even get me started on that).
As for Sawyer, I adored him. He's every bit a book boyfriend material. Intelligent, brilliant even, smart, handsome, caring, supporting and loving.
I related with Sawyer a bit more I could with Starla. The book stands in line and simultaneously in contrast with 'The Kiss Quotient' by Helen Hoang, which is another romance book with mention of disability. I couldn't help but compare both and I found out that 'More than We Bargained For' is more realistic and relatable. The disability wasn't just for the sake of being a trope but it's presence was palpable. The author did a great job in weaving both the tropes together.
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