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The Stars at Night
Self-described city girl Lexie Walton is a million miles from nowhere and completely out of her element. Park ranger Kyler Clemons had loved the vibe and the beach of Mustang Island. Getting caught with her boss’s wife, however, got her transferred to the wild and remote Davis Mountains State Park—literally in the middle of nowhere. Now after four years, she’s forgotten about the beach and has embraced the mountain life, feeling like a local. She hangs out at the Cottonwood Creek Bar and Grill. She watches football with Mark Walton. She’s taken up birdwatching and stargazing as hobbies. She is perfectly content. No stress. No drama. And no desire to date. Then Lexie Walton waltzes into her life. After losing her cushy job in Austin―and unable to find another one―Lexie accepts her parents’ offer to join them and her brother in running a rustic lodge and restaurant in the remote Davis Mountains of West Texas. Hesitant to commit to such a drastic move, she agrees to a trial run―two months. Two months would get her through Christmas and the New Year. Her friends thought she was foolish to make such a move. There was no nightlife, no parties, no spin class, and no green smoothies. And no chance of dating. That was a plus, however. After her breakup with Crazy Cathy, she wanted no part of the dating game. This remote area would do nicely. But then she meets this cute, tree-hugging park ranger who turns her world completely upside down.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2020
72 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
About the author
Gerri Hill
56 books1,537 followersGerri began writing lesbian romance as a way to amuse herself while snowed in one winter in the mountains of Colorado, and hasn’t looked back. Her first published work came in 2000 with One Summer Night. Many more romances have followed, with the occasional murder mystery in the mix.
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
November 22, 2020
3.75 Stars. This was a sweet, traditional romance. While I am a huge fan of Hill’s outstanding crime and or paranormal books, I will happily read anything that she writes. If you read a lot of Hill, you will know that she writes many different types of books. Even her books in the romance category vary quite drastically with this book reminding me of a similar style to The Secret Pond. Both books are very slow-burn, low angst, low key, sweet romances. These traditional romance type books are not my favorite, but Hill writes so well that she is able to keep me reading anyway.
One of the most important parts, and my favorite of the book, ended up being the setting. The setting was absolutely fantastic. Hill writes settings so well that it almost becomes a third main character. And I could not help but personally relate to this setting. I live in the woods and I walk every day sometimes multiple times. It’s always my favorite part of the day and I appreciate nature and the beauty of where I live. Funny enough I’m like the opposite of the main character since I’m moving to a city when Covid calms down. I’m so ready for that change in my life but I’ll miss these mountains and this beauty very much. And I actually think this book got to me, more than I expected, because of that.
Writing a slower romance where the setting and characters drive the story, it was obviously nice to have very likeable characters. Kyler seemed almost too good to be true at times, but no complaints from me. I also appreciated the secondary characters like one of the main character’s brother, who was really well written. I like when a secondary character doesn’t just seem like a fill-in or only there to support the mains. This brother had a real storyline and I actually cared about his character.
I did have one issue with a little repetitiveness. Since this is not a plot driven story, there was a good amount of dialogue at times. It was to really show the mains becoming friends and maybe more. The problem I had is they talked about their past, their exes, too many times. While both had some interesting exes, there was nothing earth shattering in their past so when they would tell their story, then talk about it again later on, than maybe even mention it again, well it wasn’t working for me. Let’s talk about the exes once and move on please.
Overall I enjoyed this book quite a bit. I have to be honest that this book might not have worked for me, had another author attempted it, but Hill is such an excellent writer that she can hook me in no matter what she writes. I forgot to mention that I would also put the light holiday tag on this book. It’s not a big part of the story but timing wise this book does fit in very well right now. I would recommend this book to fans of Hill and traditional wlw romance readers. Oh and lastly, I loved the little Easter egg about Gillette Park, which is another Hill book I would highly recommend.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
One of the most important parts, and my favorite of the book, ended up being the setting. The setting was absolutely fantastic. Hill writes settings so well that it almost becomes a third main character. And I could not help but personally relate to this setting. I live in the woods and I walk every day sometimes multiple times. It’s always my favorite part of the day and I appreciate nature and the beauty of where I live. Funny enough I’m like the opposite of the main character since I’m moving to a city when Covid calms down. I’m so ready for that change in my life but I’ll miss these mountains and this beauty very much. And I actually think this book got to me, more than I expected, because of that.
Writing a slower romance where the setting and characters drive the story, it was obviously nice to have very likeable characters. Kyler seemed almost too good to be true at times, but no complaints from me. I also appreciated the secondary characters like one of the main character’s brother, who was really well written. I like when a secondary character doesn’t just seem like a fill-in or only there to support the mains. This brother had a real storyline and I actually cared about his character.
I did have one issue with a little repetitiveness. Since this is not a plot driven story, there was a good amount of dialogue at times. It was to really show the mains becoming friends and maybe more. The problem I had is they talked about their past, their exes, too many times. While both had some interesting exes, there was nothing earth shattering in their past so when they would tell their story, then talk about it again later on, than maybe even mention it again, well it wasn’t working for me. Let’s talk about the exes once and move on please.
Overall I enjoyed this book quite a bit. I have to be honest that this book might not have worked for me, had another author attempted it, but Hill is such an excellent writer that she can hook me in no matter what she writes. I forgot to mention that I would also put the light holiday tag on this book. It’s not a big part of the story but timing wise this book does fit in very well right now. I would recommend this book to fans of Hill and traditional wlw romance readers. Oh and lastly, I loved the little Easter egg about Gillette Park, which is another Hill book I would highly recommend.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
November 18, 2020
Another nice feelgood romance by one of my favorite authors. This time the story is set in a remote location high in the mountains of West Texas and is full of beautiful scenery, stargazing, birding, hiking and mountain biking. I love birds and I think the author got me hooked on birdwatching in my neighborhood (I am even looking for a good pair of binoculars online). Among other things she taught me the difference between birding and birdwatching.
And what to say about the romance than that it is good as usual -- a warm gentle story of love and family with two well-defined and likable main characters and some really good secondary ones with a heartwarming, satisfying ending. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good outdoorsy romance high on depictions of nature and low on drama and angst.
3.75 stars
November 18, 2020
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
And what to say about the romance than that it is good as usual -- a warm gentle story of love and family with two well-defined and likable main characters and some really good secondary ones with a heartwarming, satisfying ending. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good outdoorsy romance high on depictions of nature and low on drama and angst.
3.75 stars
November 18, 2020
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
November 15, 2020
“I love it here.” This sentence comes back a lot in Gerri Hill’s latest romance novel and I love it because it echoes what I think very often about where I now live.
Leaving the life you know in a busy and exciting – at least on the surface – city for a much slower, quieter but also more tangible life in the mountains or, in my case, by the sea, isn’t for everyone, I guess. It definitely was the right choice for me (take a look at my Instagram if you have any doubt), and it turns out to be the right choice for both main characters in The Stars at Night.
Working at the Davis Mountains State Park was never Kyler Clemons’s plan. She loved the beach life of Mustang Island, but getting caught with your boss’s wife (which reminded me of Hill’s No Strings at first) can have unforeseen consequences. Positive consequences, since a few years later, she’s happier than she’s ever been. She loves the mountains, loves learning about birds, loves the people, especially her best friend Mark and his parents. After she loses her job in the tech industry and can’t seem to find a new one, Lexie Walton, Mark’s sister, allows her parents to convince her to come and see whether she’d enjoy running their lodge while they travel. Lexie’s life in Austin is the complete opposite of what she expects to find in the mountains, but she needs a change of scenery so she agrees to a trial run for a couple of months, until after the holidays.
You know how sometimes you meet someone and you just click? That’s what happens between Kyler and Lexie, just like Lexie’s family predicted. Both women are convinced this connection they feel is friendship, which is all they want, but when colours are a little brighter, the air a little sharper, the smells a little sweeter when you experience them with that new friend, it’s usually called falling in love, whether you’re ready for it or not. Lexie is aware that one of the reason she’s enjoying this new place and such a different way of life is Kyler, and neither can deny the attraction, but if Lexie fights it so hard, it’s because she really does need a friend. She needs to reevaluate her life and her wants and desires, and is weary of making what could be the right choices for the wrong reasons.
Besides chemistry, which she writes very convincingly, Gerri Hill always excels at describing nature and everything that there is to love in nature (that’s one of the things I liked most when I was translating Storms), and it’s once again one of the strongest points of this book.
The Stars at Night is a light and quick read, full of joy and feelings and not a lot of angst. It’s sexy and mellow, romantic and flirty. Exactly what I want to read on a rainy day.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Leaving the life you know in a busy and exciting – at least on the surface – city for a much slower, quieter but also more tangible life in the mountains or, in my case, by the sea, isn’t for everyone, I guess. It definitely was the right choice for me (take a look at my Instagram if you have any doubt), and it turns out to be the right choice for both main characters in The Stars at Night.
Working at the Davis Mountains State Park was never Kyler Clemons’s plan. She loved the beach life of Mustang Island, but getting caught with your boss’s wife (which reminded me of Hill’s No Strings at first) can have unforeseen consequences. Positive consequences, since a few years later, she’s happier than she’s ever been. She loves the mountains, loves learning about birds, loves the people, especially her best friend Mark and his parents. After she loses her job in the tech industry and can’t seem to find a new one, Lexie Walton, Mark’s sister, allows her parents to convince her to come and see whether she’d enjoy running their lodge while they travel. Lexie’s life in Austin is the complete opposite of what she expects to find in the mountains, but she needs a change of scenery so she agrees to a trial run for a couple of months, until after the holidays.
You know how sometimes you meet someone and you just click? That’s what happens between Kyler and Lexie, just like Lexie’s family predicted. Both women are convinced this connection they feel is friendship, which is all they want, but when colours are a little brighter, the air a little sharper, the smells a little sweeter when you experience them with that new friend, it’s usually called falling in love, whether you’re ready for it or not. Lexie is aware that one of the reason she’s enjoying this new place and such a different way of life is Kyler, and neither can deny the attraction, but if Lexie fights it so hard, it’s because she really does need a friend. She needs to reevaluate her life and her wants and desires, and is weary of making what could be the right choices for the wrong reasons.
Besides chemistry, which she writes very convincingly, Gerri Hill always excels at describing nature and everything that there is to love in nature (that’s one of the things I liked most when I was translating Storms), and it’s once again one of the strongest points of this book.
The Stars at Night is a light and quick read, full of joy and feelings and not a lot of angst. It’s sexy and mellow, romantic and flirty. Exactly what I want to read on a rainy day.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2021
This was a great wlw romance audiobook. Even though I normally prefer Ms. Hill’s mystery and crime books, she really nailed it here, and the fact that Abby Craden narrates it makes it worth it even more.
When Lexie Walton loses her job in Austin, Texas, her parents convince her to move to their rustic lodge and restaurant in the remote Davis Mountains of West Texas. Unconvinced that she’s gonna adapt to such a different life, she agrees to go for the holidays. There, she will meet Park ranger Kyler Clemons and share a strong attraction. Will it be enough to convince city sleeker Lexie to stay?
This is a low angst, drama free, sweet romance, just what I needed especially at the end of this crazy 2020. Both characters are lovable, mature and they communicate properly with each other. Kudos to the author for not creating a contrived conflict but just showing a natural evolution of a relationship from casual to serious with the long-distance obstacle.
One element that defines Gerri Hill’s novels is the presence of nature in all her settings. Its role is so important that it’s a main character in itself. Even more so in ‘The Stars at Night’. This isn’t just a story about two women falling in love, it’s also a story of how a city woman falls in love with the beautiful area around Davis mountains, its wildlife and landscape. Ms. Hill’s descriptions of the setting are photographic and make the reader also fall in love with the place.
The audiobook was narrated by Abby Craden who has read most of Gerri Hill’s work to the delight of this author’s fans. As usual, Ms. Craden did a great job in creating distinctive voices and performing a range of different emotions that the characters go through. If you are looking for a sweet and drama free story, this is highly recommended. 5 stars.
Length: 8 hrs and 2 mins
When Lexie Walton loses her job in Austin, Texas, her parents convince her to move to their rustic lodge and restaurant in the remote Davis Mountains of West Texas. Unconvinced that she’s gonna adapt to such a different life, she agrees to go for the holidays. There, she will meet Park ranger Kyler Clemons and share a strong attraction. Will it be enough to convince city sleeker Lexie to stay?
This is a low angst, drama free, sweet romance, just what I needed especially at the end of this crazy 2020. Both characters are lovable, mature and they communicate properly with each other. Kudos to the author for not creating a contrived conflict but just showing a natural evolution of a relationship from casual to serious with the long-distance obstacle.
One element that defines Gerri Hill’s novels is the presence of nature in all her settings. Its role is so important that it’s a main character in itself. Even more so in ‘The Stars at Night’. This isn’t just a story about two women falling in love, it’s also a story of how a city woman falls in love with the beautiful area around Davis mountains, its wildlife and landscape. Ms. Hill’s descriptions of the setting are photographic and make the reader also fall in love with the place.
The audiobook was narrated by Abby Craden who has read most of Gerri Hill’s work to the delight of this author’s fans. As usual, Ms. Craden did a great job in creating distinctive voices and performing a range of different emotions that the characters go through. If you are looking for a sweet and drama free story, this is highly recommended. 5 stars.
Length: 8 hrs and 2 mins
November 14, 2020
This one is a bit of an odd one to review for me. It’s a nice read, it’s a pleasant book, tranquil in tone and setting, I really enjoyed reading it - but it didn’t excite me. It’s my first read of a Hill book (I know - another author I need to find time for) so I was really surprised to find that it didn’t make me want to grab all of her back catalogue. To be fair - I suspect the lack of excitement for me is probably due to the very laid back nature of the book, which is in this case is appropriate and works perfectly.
Kyler is a park ranger - transferred out to her remote state park after getting caught hooking up with her boss’s wife. I love how the book explores her having fallen in love with her new surroundings, her new hobbies and her sweet embarrassment about them.
Lexie’s parents run the lodge at the state park. She’s been made redundant from her job and is feeling lost so takes takes up the offer to try running the lodge for them. She’s more a city girl and the park is a bit of a culture shock for her. Much like with Kyler the narrative around her realising what the environment, a quieter life and family mean to her make the book.
The secondary characters are great. Lexie’s brother and parents closeness to both Kyler and Lexie allow us to see different sides of both MCs. I loved the communication between all of the characters in this story. The book just feels so open, peaceful and grown-up in character outlook - it’s very refreshing.
Whilst I can’t instantly think of any comparators to this book, I will definitely be checking out more Hill in the future and would recommend this to any fans of wlw romance.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Kyler is a park ranger - transferred out to her remote state park after getting caught hooking up with her boss’s wife. I love how the book explores her having fallen in love with her new surroundings, her new hobbies and her sweet embarrassment about them.
Lexie’s parents run the lodge at the state park. She’s been made redundant from her job and is feeling lost so takes takes up the offer to try running the lodge for them. She’s more a city girl and the park is a bit of a culture shock for her. Much like with Kyler the narrative around her realising what the environment, a quieter life and family mean to her make the book.
The secondary characters are great. Lexie’s brother and parents closeness to both Kyler and Lexie allow us to see different sides of both MCs. I loved the communication between all of the characters in this story. The book just feels so open, peaceful and grown-up in character outlook - it’s very refreshing.
Whilst I can’t instantly think of any comparators to this book, I will definitely be checking out more Hill in the future and would recommend this to any fans of wlw romance.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2020
4.25 stars. This was the soft, sweet romance I needed while simultaneously reading a harrowing WWII novel. This was my first Gerri Hill book, but it won’t be my last.
Kyler is so gentle and understanding and her enthusiasm for her home/workplace is infectious. I could also see myself falling in love with a remote-ish life in the mountains, and through her perspective, I was able to indulge that dream a bit. I thought Lexie would turn out to be an ice queen, but she isn’t at all. She’s bubbly, flirty, and nearly as kindhearted as Kyler. Lexie’s and Kyler’s dynamic reminded me a lot of that of the mains in Jae’s Paper Love. Their romance is a slow-burn (well, at least in the scope of the novel) and the cuteness kept escalating until the end. I also loved Mark, Lexie’s brother. His story arc is touching, and I nearly cried for him in the end!
One random thing I loved was Kyler’s descriptions of her interests. She loves birdwatching and astronomy, but she’s sometimes insecure because she’s not an “expert.” That was…so refreshing?? I related so hard, and I really appreciated that Hill included that kind of inner monologue.
Unfortunately, I had some issues with the liberal uses of the word “crazy” and “normal” to describe other people. I’m fine with these words to describe situations or one’s own mental state, but in this case it was a little off-putting. I think Hill could have used other words in these scenarios.
While this was cozier/more laid-back than knock-my-socks-off, it sure was enjoyable and greatly welcomed.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
Kyler is so gentle and understanding and her enthusiasm for her home/workplace is infectious. I could also see myself falling in love with a remote-ish life in the mountains, and through her perspective, I was able to indulge that dream a bit. I thought Lexie would turn out to be an ice queen, but she isn’t at all. She’s bubbly, flirty, and nearly as kindhearted as Kyler. Lexie’s and Kyler’s dynamic reminded me a lot of that of the mains in Jae’s Paper Love. Their romance is a slow-burn (well, at least in the scope of the novel) and the cuteness kept escalating until the end. I also loved Mark, Lexie’s brother. His story arc is touching, and I nearly cried for him in the end!
One random thing I loved was Kyler’s descriptions of her interests. She loves birdwatching and astronomy, but she’s sometimes insecure because she’s not an “expert.” That was…so refreshing?? I related so hard, and I really appreciated that Hill included that kind of inner monologue.
Unfortunately, I had some issues with the liberal uses of the word “crazy” and “normal” to describe other people. I’m fine with these words to describe situations or one’s own mental state, but in this case it was a little off-putting. I think Hill could have used other words in these scenarios.
While this was cozier/more laid-back than knock-my-socks-off, it sure was enjoyable and greatly welcomed.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2021
This was a listen for me. Sweet story about finding home and realizing the heart has all the say in that. The mountains were a fabulous setting and the mains were sweet with good chemistry. The story and dialog made the romance flow organically-that rooting for the mains' happiness! Abby Craden did a fantastic job with the narration. It always amazes me when I hear her range of voices-females, males and children. Easy to recommend this one.
May 7, 2021
3.73 stars
This is a slow burn romance with very little angst. A little repetitive at times, but something about it kept my strolling along, just like the characters.
This is a slow burn romance with very little angst. A little repetitive at times, but something about it kept my strolling along, just like the characters.
November 18, 2020
If you are looking for a great book to read as you curl up in front of a fire on a cold wintery night, then look no further than The Stars at Night by Gerri Hill.
This is a lovely slow-burn romance about two unlikely people, city girl Lexi Walton and park ranger Kyler Clemons, set in the beautiful Davis Mountains of West Texas. The characters we meet in the story are all realistic people that we would love to meet and be friends with. Both Lexi and Kyler are easy to connect to. Their chemistry is very strong even though they both fight it to begin with because they don’t believe they are compatible. The romance builds slowly as they both are drawn to each other in spite of that belief.
The setting is what really makes this tale special. Ms. Hill has done an excellent job describing where this story takes place. We can feel the cold wind, hear the rustle of the birds in the bushes by the hiking path, smell the ponderosa pine, and see the brilliance of thousands of stars in the sky. Add two lovely women falling in love in this spectacular setting, and you have an awesome story well worth reading.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
This is a lovely slow-burn romance about two unlikely people, city girl Lexi Walton and park ranger Kyler Clemons, set in the beautiful Davis Mountains of West Texas. The characters we meet in the story are all realistic people that we would love to meet and be friends with. Both Lexi and Kyler are easy to connect to. Their chemistry is very strong even though they both fight it to begin with because they don’t believe they are compatible. The romance builds slowly as they both are drawn to each other in spite of that belief.
The setting is what really makes this tale special. Ms. Hill has done an excellent job describing where this story takes place. We can feel the cold wind, hear the rustle of the birds in the bushes by the hiking path, smell the ponderosa pine, and see the brilliance of thousands of stars in the sky. Add two lovely women falling in love in this spectacular setting, and you have an awesome story well worth reading.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
March 24, 2021
Set in a small community in and around a park, this is a lovely story.
November 27, 2020
Kyler Clemons is a park ranger at Davis Mountains State Park in west Texas who has become content living a quiet life. She has a job she loves, friends, and a passion for nature that keeps her generally fulfilled. City girl Lexie Walton has lost her high paying tech job in Austin and is having difficulty finding another. Her parents left Austin to open a rustic inn in Ft. Davis years earlier and they invite Lexie to come visit for a few months to see if she might like to run it for them. Lexie thinks she'll be bored stiff in a matter of days - much less months - but with no job prospects she agrees. She really misses her parents and brother, who also relocated there and runs the local bar and grill. Still - how could she possibly be happy in such a sleepy town after having the nightlife, restaurants, gyms and other amenities Austin has to offer?
When she arrives in town and meets her brother's best friend Kyler - who is most definitely not her type but attractive as hell - little does she know how Kyler's refreshing view of her life and surroundings will impact her.
This story is classic Gerri Hill. There's lots of enjoying nature, bike rides, bird watching, trail walking and star gazing. And while Hill doesn't break any new ground with it, it’s a comfort read. Like visiting an old friend. And that's perfectly okay with me. Plus - Abby Craden narrates it. Even better.
When she arrives in town and meets her brother's best friend Kyler - who is most definitely not her type but attractive as hell - little does she know how Kyler's refreshing view of her life and surroundings will impact her.
This story is classic Gerri Hill. There's lots of enjoying nature, bike rides, bird watching, trail walking and star gazing. And while Hill doesn't break any new ground with it, it’s a comfort read. Like visiting an old friend. And that's perfectly okay with me. Plus - Abby Craden narrates it. Even better.
August 5, 2022
4,25 stars
This was good. A drama-free romance. I liked both MCs (especially Kyler and her secret birdwatching hobby), the story was cute and, as usual, well written.
Side note: I really appreciated the reference to Gillette Park. It made me chuckle out loud, because my mind went there right before Lexie's did.
This was good. A drama-free romance. I liked both MCs (especially Kyler and her secret birdwatching hobby), the story was cute and, as usual, well written.
Side note: I really appreciated the reference to Gillette Park. It made me chuckle out loud, because my mind went there right before Lexie's did.
December 27, 2020
Loved this book - wow! My 20th of her's at an average of 4.75. I think you can see I love them. Such real lives, wonderful back characters and even though stars and birds are not my thing, she makes it so intersting and alive that I am swept along with the brillance of the story.
November 29, 2020
Gerri Hill never disappoints!
September 2, 2021
It’s a toss up between this book and The Secret Pond for being my favorites by Gerri Hill. I really really liked this book. I found it so sweet and loved all the characters. The MCs for sure had chemistry and fought it just about as long as they could. If I could change this story I would have only added more intimacy and sex scenes. They were a really cute couple and it was fun listening to their journey. I would love a follow up book.
January 2, 2022
6/10
cute enough and probably would recommend if u want an audiobook in the background while doing something?
wouldnt buy a paperback or an ebook though - if i did that i probably wouldve put it in the dnf shelf before 50%.
cute enough and probably would recommend if u want an audiobook in the background while doing something?
wouldnt buy a paperback or an ebook though - if i did that i probably wouldve put it in the dnf shelf before 50%.
March 9, 2021
Another sweet romance by Gerri Hill. I loved that Lexie's parents were trying to hook her up with Kyler. Gerri does such a great job describing the scenery of wherever her characters are. I always feel like I'm right there with them.
December 23, 2020
I won't be putting this on my favourite's list, but it is a Gerri Hill book so I dig it.
November 9, 2020
* I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
Gerri Hill is one of those authors that rarely disappoint you. This one was not my favorite but it was still a decent read at least until the last third of the book when the usual conflict came up. Both Lexie and Kyler were real sweethearts and their chemistry was good so that was a big plus for me.
So why 3 stars? I have a complain and it certainly doesn't apply to Gerri Hill only, but to a part of lesbian authors who like following the same copy (maybe it's a new trend), they create a story about a "city person who moves to a small town" and then discovers that the big city is not for them and so on.
Due to my profession I consider myself lucky enough to be able to move for work for at least 4 months per year to a small island. Let me tell you it's very different experience from my big city routine (that I have for the rest 8 months of the year). The thing is that I can appreciate both places and I am grateful for the opportunity to explore two very different ways of life.
In this book I literally had to shake my head so much mostly because of the subtle judgement that permeates the pages. The fact that Lexie cannot enjoy Austin it's not because Austin has nothing to offer but because her friends and the life that she was leading was superficial. In a book, I want to be able to draw my conclusions but in this case the author was biased and it was showing. She was describing the life in the West Texas wilderness as the paradise (I don't doubt it that it might be) and then Austin as a city where people don't do else than going out barhopping and having superficial connections. Also what about Lexie's job that it was clear how much she used to enjoy it? Does the author want us to believe that Lexie will be longterm happy to run the hotel even though she never seemed enthusiastic about it? In general the dynamic with her parents (her mom mostly) was weird.
I would also like it for once if there was a "if you cannot come to me then I will come to your city cause I love you and it doesn't matter where we live". I'm so tired of reading about the one side that always have too come back when the other side just sits around waiting passively in case their lover returns.
Gerri Hill is one of those authors that rarely disappoint you. This one was not my favorite but it was still a decent read at least until the last third of the book when the usual conflict came up. Both Lexie and Kyler were real sweethearts and their chemistry was good so that was a big plus for me.
So why 3 stars? I have a complain and it certainly doesn't apply to Gerri Hill only, but to a part of lesbian authors who like following the same copy (maybe it's a new trend), they create a story about a "city person who moves to a small town" and then discovers that the big city is not for them and so on.
Due to my profession I consider myself lucky enough to be able to move for work for at least 4 months per year to a small island. Let me tell you it's very different experience from my big city routine (that I have for the rest 8 months of the year). The thing is that I can appreciate both places and I am grateful for the opportunity to explore two very different ways of life.
In this book I literally had to shake my head so much mostly because of the subtle judgement that permeates the pages. The fact that Lexie cannot enjoy Austin it's not because Austin has nothing to offer but because her friends and the life that she was leading was superficial. In a book, I want to be able to draw my conclusions but in this case the author was biased and it was showing. She was describing the life in the West Texas wilderness as the paradise (I don't doubt it that it might be) and then Austin as a city where people don't do else than going out barhopping and having superficial connections. Also what about Lexie's job that it was clear how much she used to enjoy it? Does the author want us to believe that Lexie will be longterm happy to run the hotel even though she never seemed enthusiastic about it? In general the dynamic with her parents (her mom mostly) was weird.
I would also like it for once if there was a "if you cannot come to me then I will come to your city cause I love you and it doesn't matter where we live". I'm so tired of reading about the one side that always have too come back when the other side just sits around waiting passively in case their lover returns.
June 1, 2021
After now reading a few of Gerri Hill's novels, I am seeing a pattern of her writing novels with amazing sceneries. The Stars at Night was no exception. The way Hill manages to set the scene is fantastic, and for me its a driving aspect of why I enjoy her novels so much.
This is a super sweet romance. There's little angst, and with the pairing of the tranquil, rural setting I found myself feeling very relaxed while reading this novel. It's a quick, easy and enjoyable read.
This is a super sweet romance. There's little angst, and with the pairing of the tranquil, rural setting I found myself feeling very relaxed while reading this novel. It's a quick, easy and enjoyable read.
November 11, 2020
When Lexie loses her job and not knowing what to do her parents convince her to help them and her brother run their rustic lodge and restaurant in the Davis mountain in region area of Texas. As she gives it a trail run to see if this what she wants to do she starts enjoying the mountains and the beauty of it.
Kyler is the park ranger after a scandal that brought her to Davis Mountain state park she thought she would hated there but she learn to enjoy the mountains and does things she didn’t think she would enjoy and gets to spend time with her best friend Mark who happen to be Lexie brother who has his own story that have you heartbroken for him but hoping he has a happy ending. Lexie and Kyler relationship and chemistry was great like how they got to know each other the dialogue was great seeing the beauty of nature through their eyes was great to.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Kyler is the park ranger after a scandal that brought her to Davis Mountain state park she thought she would hated there but she learn to enjoy the mountains and does things she didn’t think she would enjoy and gets to spend time with her best friend Mark who happen to be Lexie brother who has his own story that have you heartbroken for him but hoping he has a happy ending. Lexie and Kyler relationship and chemistry was great like how they got to know each other the dialogue was great seeing the beauty of nature through their eyes was great to.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
January 10, 2022
I'm giving this a generous 3 stars.
Four years ago, Kyler, a park ranger, was banished to the remote Davis Mountain, after she was caught sleeping with her boss’ wife. And though she struggled to acclimate when she first arrived, she’s grown to love her post and the small town and community that’s attached to the park. Lexie loves living in Austin, but she lost her job and she’s been unable to find a new job. With her savings nearly depleted and the lease on her apartment ending soon, Lexie decides to take her parents on their offer to run the Davis Mountain Lodge they own—at least on a trial basis.
I don’t really know how to review this novel because, on the one hand, there’s this love story and these characters that I was drawn to. And I really loved watching their relationship develop. On the other hand, there’s the execution of the story itself that was just repetitive and odd.
For example, Lexie has a thriving social life in Austin. On Saturday nights she goes barhopping on Sixth Street. On Sundays she wakes up with a hangover and meets her friends for brunch where she orders a Bloody Mary and cheesy migas. And you will read a version of that sentence at least 10-20 times in the novel. And that’s just one example of about 4 things Gerri Hill repeats over and over and over again.
And Gerri Hill seemed intent to just paint everything in black and white. For example:
- Kyler doesn’t think she’ll like the remote and arid West Texas mountains since she’s a beach person.
- Lexie is a city girl; there’s no way she’ll like living somewhere remote.
- Lexie likes to work out in a gym. But there is no gym in the mountain town, so she hikes and mountain bikes and this is a revelation to her! Who knew you could workout outside?!
- Lexie like barhopping and the Austin nightlife. How will she ever enjoy stargazing or campfires?
These all seemed really weird dichotomies. A person, to borrow from Walt Whitman, contains multitudes. And it just seemed really odd to me that these characters were so either/or about everything. You know, it is possible to enjoy the city and the country. It is possible to like the beach and the mountains. I’m not convinced Gerri Hill didn’t write a story about robots programed only to understand the world through a very narrow and rigid lens.
But the most obnoxious thing about this novel is that the big impediment to Kyler and Lexie’s relationship comes from some arbitrary hangup about “type.” Over and over and over and over again they tell each other (and anyone who asks) that they’re not each other’s type. There’s no way they can end up together because they’re not the type of woman the other is usually attracted to. So never mind actual attraction happening in real time, never mind the physical, mental and emotional chemistry they share. Never mind that they love spending time together and challenge each other. Nope. She’s not her type. I wanted to strangle both of them.
And, I know this is a really random complaint, but Gerri Hill thinks Millennials (and they both identify has Millennials in the text) would call their hook-up a “fling” or an “affair”. No. They’re not 60 year-old boomers. It was a really strange word choice.
So, yeah, I was a little disappointed by this, and that’s a pity since I really liked Kyler and Lexie. This just lacked a good editor to reign Hill in. And while a big part of me wants to give this two stars, I’m settling on three stars because, despite all my complaints, I always appreciate when characters 1) legitimately get to know one another before declaring love and 2) are able to communicate with each other.
Four years ago, Kyler, a park ranger, was banished to the remote Davis Mountain, after she was caught sleeping with her boss’ wife. And though she struggled to acclimate when she first arrived, she’s grown to love her post and the small town and community that’s attached to the park. Lexie loves living in Austin, but she lost her job and she’s been unable to find a new job. With her savings nearly depleted and the lease on her apartment ending soon, Lexie decides to take her parents on their offer to run the Davis Mountain Lodge they own—at least on a trial basis.
I don’t really know how to review this novel because, on the one hand, there’s this love story and these characters that I was drawn to. And I really loved watching their relationship develop. On the other hand, there’s the execution of the story itself that was just repetitive and odd.
For example, Lexie has a thriving social life in Austin. On Saturday nights she goes barhopping on Sixth Street. On Sundays she wakes up with a hangover and meets her friends for brunch where she orders a Bloody Mary and cheesy migas. And you will read a version of that sentence at least 10-20 times in the novel. And that’s just one example of about 4 things Gerri Hill repeats over and over and over again.
And Gerri Hill seemed intent to just paint everything in black and white. For example:
- Kyler doesn’t think she’ll like the remote and arid West Texas mountains since she’s a beach person.
- Lexie is a city girl; there’s no way she’ll like living somewhere remote.
- Lexie likes to work out in a gym. But there is no gym in the mountain town, so she hikes and mountain bikes and this is a revelation to her! Who knew you could workout outside?!
- Lexie like barhopping and the Austin nightlife. How will she ever enjoy stargazing or campfires?
These all seemed really weird dichotomies. A person, to borrow from Walt Whitman, contains multitudes. And it just seemed really odd to me that these characters were so either/or about everything. You know, it is possible to enjoy the city and the country. It is possible to like the beach and the mountains. I’m not convinced Gerri Hill didn’t write a story about robots programed only to understand the world through a very narrow and rigid lens.
But the most obnoxious thing about this novel is that the big impediment to Kyler and Lexie’s relationship comes from some arbitrary hangup about “type.” Over and over and over and over again they tell each other (and anyone who asks) that they’re not each other’s type. There’s no way they can end up together because they’re not the type of woman the other is usually attracted to. So never mind actual attraction happening in real time, never mind the physical, mental and emotional chemistry they share. Never mind that they love spending time together and challenge each other. Nope. She’s not her type. I wanted to strangle both of them.
And, I know this is a really random complaint, but Gerri Hill thinks Millennials (and they both identify has Millennials in the text) would call their hook-up a “fling” or an “affair”. No. They’re not 60 year-old boomers. It was a really strange word choice.
So, yeah, I was a little disappointed by this, and that’s a pity since I really liked Kyler and Lexie. This just lacked a good editor to reign Hill in. And while a big part of me wants to give this two stars, I’m settling on three stars because, despite all my complaints, I always appreciate when characters 1) legitimately get to know one another before declaring love and 2) are able to communicate with each other.
January 27, 2021
Sloooow burn
This was a classic friends-to-lovers, slow burn, long story. Every character was a delight, except maybe Lexie's pal in the city. I could have done without her. Kyler was utterly adorable and sweet and so down to earth. The more I got to know her, the more I feared she'd get trampled on, used, and get her heart broken by Lexie. As for Lexie, I was prepared to hate her, because she was an outsider with a different perspective on life than the mountaineers. Surprisingly, she was just as wonderful as the rest and painfully logical. Too logical. Sometimes you gotta go where the wind blows ya and follow the pitter-patter of your heart, and Lexie bored me sometimes with her brain. This was a mature, slow going love story. So mature, at times, I kinda wanted some overly dramatic scenario to happen just to give me something to bite down on. And we did, it just wasn't anything to do with the two love interests. It was simply lovely and vanilla. Even the sex was nice, just nice.
I'd rate it 5, but all throughout the story I struggled at times as to who was talking. I found the writing style got muddied and I'd lose track and have to backtrack. I also wished descriptive detail toward the characters was better. Other than colours of hair and eyes, I don't really know what any of them looked like.
This was a classic friends-to-lovers, slow burn, long story. Every character was a delight, except maybe Lexie's pal in the city. I could have done without her. Kyler was utterly adorable and sweet and so down to earth. The more I got to know her, the more I feared she'd get trampled on, used, and get her heart broken by Lexie. As for Lexie, I was prepared to hate her, because she was an outsider with a different perspective on life than the mountaineers. Surprisingly, she was just as wonderful as the rest and painfully logical. Too logical. Sometimes you gotta go where the wind blows ya and follow the pitter-patter of your heart, and Lexie bored me sometimes with her brain. This was a mature, slow going love story. So mature, at times, I kinda wanted some overly dramatic scenario to happen just to give me something to bite down on. And we did, it just wasn't anything to do with the two love interests. It was simply lovely and vanilla. Even the sex was nice, just nice.
I'd rate it 5, but all throughout the story I struggled at times as to who was talking. I found the writing style got muddied and I'd lose track and have to backtrack. I also wished descriptive detail toward the characters was better. Other than colours of hair and eyes, I don't really know what any of them looked like.
December 21, 2020
3.5 Stars. Lexie Walton is jobless and unsure what to do with her life. She thinks she loves her life in the city with her Saturday night drinking and Sunday night brunch. Since she is jobless, she is forced to help her parents at their Inn in the middle of the mountains in Texas. It is the complete opposite of where she is now and she thinks she is going to hate it. She is giving herself until after the holidays to decide what to do. Her parents try to have her make friends so she will stay in the mountains. That person is Lexi's brother's best friend, Park ranger Kyler Clemons. Kyler loves the area and never wants to leave, she got transferred there after sleeping with her boss' wife, but she learned to love it. Kyler and Lexie seem to have a lot in common and start spending a lot of time together. They start to see that they could be more than friends.
I enjoyed this novel. It was a pretty solid one by Gerri Hill. I enjoyed the dynamic between the two characters and how they interacted with each other. I enjoyed how Lexie seemed to start to fall in love with the location like her whole family. The drama was predictable but cute at the same time. I enjoyed how it played out in the book. My only criticism is how many times Lexie repeated what she did in the city and how she tried to convince herself that it was the perfect life. I would recommend this novel, it was an easy quick read.
I enjoyed this novel. It was a pretty solid one by Gerri Hill. I enjoyed the dynamic between the two characters and how they interacted with each other. I enjoyed how Lexie seemed to start to fall in love with the location like her whole family. The drama was predictable but cute at the same time. I enjoyed how it played out in the book. My only criticism is how many times Lexie repeated what she did in the city and how she tried to convince herself that it was the perfect life. I would recommend this novel, it was an easy quick read.
February 7, 2021
Not one of gerri Hill’s best. Good writing but this book was really flat. As many of her books have been, it is set up in the mountains in a small town. It reminded me of ‘No Strings’ but not nearly as good. The two women were immature for their age, claiming multiple times they weren’t suited. If fact their indecision was the whole plot...that and discussing food and birds. I had to do a lot of skipping through pages to finish the book.
February 10, 2021
This was a really nice little romance, but I found it a bit repetitive at times. The constant “Your not my type” refrain became annoying after what seemed like the ‘hundredth’ time and by the end of the book I could understand why Lexie’s ex had driven her car into a lake.
February 23, 2021
Listened to this book, Abby Craden always does a wonderful job narrating. I’m a sucker for a sweet romance and happy ending. Loved reading the nature scenes.
December 21, 2020
Sweet predictable romance. 3 and a 1/2 stars.reminded me of, No strings attached. That was a favourite of mine.
Would of loved Nicole Zanzarella to have done it, as she has done most of Gerri Hills audio books, and I really enjoyed how she does them. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy Abby Cradens, version. And that has not impacted my review, just my opinion. :)
But it was a nice sweet romance from one of my favourite Authors.
Edit note! I just looked and I apologise, Abby Craden has done more of Gerri Hills books than I realised! :O
I still prefer Nicole Zanzarella though. :D
Would of loved Nicole Zanzarella to have done it, as she has done most of Gerri Hills audio books, and I really enjoyed how she does them. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy Abby Cradens, version. And that has not impacted my review, just my opinion. :)
But it was a nice sweet romance from one of my favourite Authors.
Edit note! I just looked and I apologise, Abby Craden has done more of Gerri Hills books than I realised! :O
I still prefer Nicole Zanzarella though. :D
December 19, 2022
This has been more or less a Christmas-themed story, but deep down I don't know if it should be classified in that section. Anyway, inside the story is the celebration of Christmas, so it is Christmassy. But putting this consideration aside, I think the story lacks substance. It has been a fairly simple topic and the author has stretched it too much, resulting in repetitiveness.
Lexie is a woman who lives in an urban environment, she is a hundred percent urbanite, she cannot live without what the city offers her, that is crystal clear, isn't it? But her circumstances change and her work situation does not allow her to stay in the city and also, with Christmas close, she must go to spend the holidays with her family who owns a small camping site in the mountains. Just to spend the holidays, not to stay to help her parents or her brother. Far from getting involved with her brother's female friend who works in the national park where the campsite is located. No way. Because that friend, Kyler, is totally opposite to her, in character and vital goals. Kyler is definitely the outdoor type where Lexie is so urban. And this incompatibility, mentioned by all the characters in the novel, both of them included, is remembered in each chapter. So the story gets lost in denials and not wanting Lexie to feel pressured. They are all so correct in that regard. Lexie is not to be upset, it seems to be everyone's premise.
I think a little less focus only on Lexie and less details of nature and more real feelings between all the protagonists would have helped make this story better.
Publisher Bella Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
Lexie is a woman who lives in an urban environment, she is a hundred percent urbanite, she cannot live without what the city offers her, that is crystal clear, isn't it? But her circumstances change and her work situation does not allow her to stay in the city and also, with Christmas close, she must go to spend the holidays with her family who owns a small camping site in the mountains. Just to spend the holidays, not to stay to help her parents or her brother. Far from getting involved with her brother's female friend who works in the national park where the campsite is located. No way. Because that friend, Kyler, is totally opposite to her, in character and vital goals. Kyler is definitely the outdoor type where Lexie is so urban. And this incompatibility, mentioned by all the characters in the novel, both of them included, is remembered in each chapter. So the story gets lost in denials and not wanting Lexie to feel pressured. They are all so correct in that regard. Lexie is not to be upset, it seems to be everyone's premise.
I think a little less focus only on Lexie and less details of nature and more real feelings between all the protagonists would have helped make this story better.
Publisher Bella Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
December 1, 2020
Lexie has been laid off from her job in Austin and her savings are draining. Her parents run a lodge in the mountains in West Texas and offer her a job for a few months while she figures out her life. Lexie loves her life in the city, and is not keen to be moving somewhere in the middle of nowhere. Kyler is a Park Ranger in the area, and when Lexie arrives its nice to hang out with someone her own age. As the two women spend time together, Lexie begins to open her eyes to life in the mountains, and her burgeoning attraction to Kyler. But Lexie's life is in the city? Isn't it?
This wasn't one of my favourite Gerri Hill's books, I find one is excellent and the next not so much. This one was really repetitive. Kyler talking about her bird watching insecurities - it really wasn't a problem or so weird that that was her interest, but she kept talking about how weird it was. Then, with Lexi talking about her usual weekend plans, I kept thinking my kindle had messed up and I was reading the same page over again, but it was just repetitive. I really did enjoy all the characters, from Kyler and Lexie, to Lexie's family, it was a really nice feel good atmosphere. Gerri Hill also did a wonderful job describing the setting, it really showed the love and appreciation for such a beautiful area. I loved experiencing it though the eyes of characters who evidently love the area and the natural beauty.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This wasn't one of my favourite Gerri Hill's books, I find one is excellent and the next not so much. This one was really repetitive. Kyler talking about her bird watching insecurities - it really wasn't a problem or so weird that that was her interest, but she kept talking about how weird it was. Then, with Lexi talking about her usual weekend plans, I kept thinking my kindle had messed up and I was reading the same page over again, but it was just repetitive. I really did enjoy all the characters, from Kyler and Lexie, to Lexie's family, it was a really nice feel good atmosphere. Gerri Hill also did a wonderful job describing the setting, it really showed the love and appreciation for such a beautiful area. I loved experiencing it though the eyes of characters who evidently love the area and the natural beauty.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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