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Fool for Love
Is a lost love ever really gone? A beautiful, small-town lesbian romance about broken hearts, hope, and second chances.
After her father’s death, property developer Chloe Roberts has only one goal: to renovate and sell the old family house as quickly as possible so she never has to return home ever again. The last thing she expects is to run into Amy Edwards, the first woman she ever loved.
Dairy farmer Amy is deeply shaken by Chloe’s sudden reappearance. Burnt bridges from bad teenage decisions still fill her with regret. What if she reaches out, though? Just a little? Can some bridges ever be saved?
As the childhood friends grow closer, old feelings start to resurface. Should those old, aching wounds be left in the past, along with all the mistakes they might only repeat? Or should the women again risk their hearts trying to conquer the distance between them—one last time?
After her father’s death, property developer Chloe Roberts has only one goal: to renovate and sell the old family house as quickly as possible so she never has to return home ever again. The last thing she expects is to run into Amy Edwards, the first woman she ever loved.
Dairy farmer Amy is deeply shaken by Chloe’s sudden reappearance. Burnt bridges from bad teenage decisions still fill her with regret. What if she reaches out, though? Just a little? Can some bridges ever be saved?
As the childhood friends grow closer, old feelings start to resurface. Should those old, aching wounds be left in the past, along with all the mistakes they might only repeat? Or should the women again risk their hearts trying to conquer the distance between them—one last time?
286 pages, ebook
First published December 6, 2021
17 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
About the author
Rachael Sommers
7 books239 followersRachael Sommers was born and raised in the North-West of England, where she began writing at the age of thirteen, and has been unable to stop since. A biology graduate, she currently works in education and constantly dreams of travelling the world. In her spare time, she enjoys horse riding, board games, escape rooms and, of, course, reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
November 10, 2021
Childhood love.
This book isn't bad but I wasn't blown away. The small town second chance romance trope has been rehashed many times by different authors such that it has become somewhat formulatic. It's safe, it can't go wrong, but at the same time it takes a lot for it to stand out.
Chloe and Amy were best friends and childhood lovers until Amy broke Chloe's heart one day and Chloe left. Years later, Chloe, now a property developer, returns to restore a house she inherited and she is reacquainted with Amy who is a dairy farmer, and they give it a second chance.
In my opinion, the romantic chemistry was average and for two people who were previously best friends first, I couldn't see the best-friend chemistry either. I think two factors contributed to this. The first is that they had both moved on in their time apart and had become best friends with other people. And the platonic relationships that they have with their respective bffs outshone the chemistry they had with each other. Chloe for example, had a good thing going with Naomi's family, that just made it a difficult decision for Chloe to relocate back to her hometown. Second, there is a lack of flashbacks which I know many people hate, but for this case, I wasn't able to feel the connection between them as much because of the lack of it. The ending also didn't offer a good resolution to the issues between them.
I like Naomi though and whatever that goes on seems to hint that she might get a book of her own. I'm excited for that.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
This book isn't bad but I wasn't blown away. The small town second chance romance trope has been rehashed many times by different authors such that it has become somewhat formulatic. It's safe, it can't go wrong, but at the same time it takes a lot for it to stand out.
Chloe and Amy were best friends and childhood lovers until Amy broke Chloe's heart one day and Chloe left. Years later, Chloe, now a property developer, returns to restore a house she inherited and she is reacquainted with Amy who is a dairy farmer, and they give it a second chance.
In my opinion, the romantic chemistry was average and for two people who were previously best friends first, I couldn't see the best-friend chemistry either. I think two factors contributed to this. The first is that they had both moved on in their time apart and had become best friends with other people. And the platonic relationships that they have with their respective bffs outshone the chemistry they had with each other. Chloe for example, had a good thing going with Naomi's family, that just made it a difficult decision for Chloe to relocate back to her hometown. Second, there is a lack of flashbacks which I know many people hate, but for this case, I wasn't able to feel the connection between them as much because of the lack of it. The ending also didn't offer a good resolution to the issues between them.
I like Naomi though and whatever that goes on seems to hint that she might get a book of her own. I'm excited for that.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2021
“Fool for Love” by Rachael Sommers is a second-chance, small town romance.
Chloe Roberts is back in her hometown to renovate and sell her childhood home after the death of her father. As soon as she gets to town she runs into Amy Edwards, her former best friend and the person who broke her heart 18 years ago. Chloe and Amy decide to give their friendship another go and soon after their feelings from before start to resurface.
This was a bit of mixed bag for me. I liked some parts of it but there were others that just didn’t work. My biggest issue was the lack of chemistry. I liked both Chloe and Amy but together I found them to lack any kind of spark, physically or emotionally. There wasn’t much pining/yearning when they weren’t together and it was hard for me to believe they had deep feelings for one another. They quickly develop feelings for each other but it felt more like old feelings coming back to life rather than from falling in love/getting to know one another again. For the majority of the book, I felt like I was reading about two platonic friends hanging out instead of two people who had feelings for the other. While it did get better towards the end, by then it was too late for me to get invested.
What I did like was all the side characters. Chloe has a found family with her best friend’s family and they are important to her. Amy lives on her family farm and is heavily involved with her family and the community. I really liked how developed all the characters were and they all felt like real people. Of course, had they not spent so much time with all the side characters, I might’ve liked the romance more. I also liked the different settings and how Sommers highlights how both London and the small village each have positive and negative attributes. Also, there’s a bit of a “Christmas miracle” that had me all heart-eyes.
This is my second book by Sommers and I didn’t absolutely love this one, I really like her style and am looking forward to reading more by her.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Chloe Roberts is back in her hometown to renovate and sell her childhood home after the death of her father. As soon as she gets to town she runs into Amy Edwards, her former best friend and the person who broke her heart 18 years ago. Chloe and Amy decide to give their friendship another go and soon after their feelings from before start to resurface.
This was a bit of mixed bag for me. I liked some parts of it but there were others that just didn’t work. My biggest issue was the lack of chemistry. I liked both Chloe and Amy but together I found them to lack any kind of spark, physically or emotionally. There wasn’t much pining/yearning when they weren’t together and it was hard for me to believe they had deep feelings for one another. They quickly develop feelings for each other but it felt more like old feelings coming back to life rather than from falling in love/getting to know one another again. For the majority of the book, I felt like I was reading about two platonic friends hanging out instead of two people who had feelings for the other. While it did get better towards the end, by then it was too late for me to get invested.
What I did like was all the side characters. Chloe has a found family with her best friend’s family and they are important to her. Amy lives on her family farm and is heavily involved with her family and the community. I really liked how developed all the characters were and they all felt like real people. Of course, had they not spent so much time with all the side characters, I might’ve liked the romance more. I also liked the different settings and how Sommers highlights how both London and the small village each have positive and negative attributes. Also, there’s a bit of a “Christmas miracle” that had me all heart-eyes.
This is my second book by Sommers and I didn’t absolutely love this one, I really like her style and am looking forward to reading more by her.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2021
Fool for Love by Rachael Sommers is a second-chance, small town romance with a thread of angst that pretty much runs through most of the story. I actually love these tropes in my romance novels. That little kernel of angst and the, “Will they resolve their bad feelings and fall in love again?” question always keeps me reading. This novel did exactly that.
Chloe Roberts is going back to the village she grew up in, not to live there, but to renovate her old family home so she can sell it. Her biggest hope is that she can get in, do the repairs as quickly as possible and leave before she sees her childhood best friend, first love, and first major heartbreak, Amy. Unfortunately for Chloe, Amy is living and running her family’s dairy farm right next door...in sight of Chloe’s house. Avoiding Amy in such a small village is going to be impossible, but can the two get over past hurts to at least become friends again?
I did enjoy this book. The characters are well developed, and I can see the chemistry between Chloe and Amy, especially as they spend more and more time together. I also liked the secondary characters, from Chloe’s current best friend Naomi and her family, to some of the villagers we meet in the tale. The village setting is great for this type of story, and the author did a good job creating this backdrop for Chloe and Amy’s reunion.
I really only have one problem with the novel, and that is the ending. It is rather abrupt. I honestly kept looking to see if there was one more chapter or epilogue that I missed. It felt unfinished…almost open-ended. I’m hoping this may be because the author is planning a second novel about Naomi, the best friend. I could see that happening, and will be looking forward to reading Naomi’s story if it does.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Chloe Roberts is going back to the village she grew up in, not to live there, but to renovate her old family home so she can sell it. Her biggest hope is that she can get in, do the repairs as quickly as possible and leave before she sees her childhood best friend, first love, and first major heartbreak, Amy. Unfortunately for Chloe, Amy is living and running her family’s dairy farm right next door...in sight of Chloe’s house. Avoiding Amy in such a small village is going to be impossible, but can the two get over past hurts to at least become friends again?
I did enjoy this book. The characters are well developed, and I can see the chemistry between Chloe and Amy, especially as they spend more and more time together. I also liked the secondary characters, from Chloe’s current best friend Naomi and her family, to some of the villagers we meet in the tale. The village setting is great for this type of story, and the author did a good job creating this backdrop for Chloe and Amy’s reunion.
I really only have one problem with the novel, and that is the ending. It is rather abrupt. I honestly kept looking to see if there was one more chapter or epilogue that I missed. It felt unfinished…almost open-ended. I’m hoping this may be because the author is planning a second novel about Naomi, the best friend. I could see that happening, and will be looking forward to reading Naomi’s story if it does.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
February 22, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
I loved this book. The story has been told many times in romance books where childhood sweethearts meet up again back in their hometowns and rekindle their friendship and love. The English countryside was charming and makes me want to visit. This book was written perfectly in my view, I loved both MCs, their banter and their jobs and families. It all felt familiar and just like real life. I also liked how both women were equal in the relationship, neither was a dominant personality.
Rachel Sommers is a favorite author of mine and I hope she keeps writing these feel good stories.
ARC received from Net Galley for an honest and voluntary review.
I loved this book. The story has been told many times in romance books where childhood sweethearts meet up again back in their hometowns and rekindle their friendship and love. The English countryside was charming and makes me want to visit. This book was written perfectly in my view, I loved both MCs, their banter and their jobs and families. It all felt familiar and just like real life. I also liked how both women were equal in the relationship, neither was a dominant personality.
Rachel Sommers is a favorite author of mine and I hope she keeps writing these feel good stories.
ARC received from Net Galley for an honest and voluntary review.
November 9, 2021
Chloe Roberts loved Amy Edwards as only teenagers can. Until one day Amy pushed her away and broke her heart. Eighteen years later Chloe has inherited her family home and has returned to renovate and sell it. As luck would have it, the first person she runs into is Amy.
Second chance romances are always fun to read. The angst of will they or won’t they reunite usually drives the narrative to a satisfying conclusion. Fool for Love left me a bit ambivalent by its ending. The conundrum was left open ended to a concrete solution which was unsatisfying. The story needed a firm resolution.
The rest of the novel is entertaining to read. Sommers is a good writer and storyteller. Her pacing is perfect and the character development is competent. The overall story is interesting and although I had issues with the ending others may not.
3⭐️
I received a free advance review copy from Ylva Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Second chance romances are always fun to read. The angst of will they or won’t they reunite usually drives the narrative to a satisfying conclusion. Fool for Love left me a bit ambivalent by its ending. The conundrum was left open ended to a concrete solution which was unsatisfying. The story needed a firm resolution.
The rest of the novel is entertaining to read. Sommers is a good writer and storyteller. Her pacing is perfect and the character development is competent. The overall story is interesting and although I had issues with the ending others may not.
3⭐️
I received a free advance review copy from Ylva Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 23, 2025
Really enjoyed this - an excellent read and story - a classic return for first love which pressed all the right buttons. Recommended.
February 14, 2022
An ok read! It got a bit draggy and repetitive at times but I just had to get it over the line.
Available in Scribd
Available in Scribd
May 13, 2024
Sweet and lots of delicious angst. Another winner for me from Ms Sommers. Thank you to my public library!
December 5, 2021
An ARC copy was given to me by YLVA for a honest review.
This book is about small town, small things and big love and second chances. Chloe came back to her family house after the death of her farther. Chloe wants to sell the house after a make over, because her life is now in London. Her return to the town comes with some painful memories and when she meet Amy, her schoolfriend, all that memories comes back. The book is about second chances and forgiveness. I like the thought about building bridges and new starts.
This book is about small town, small things and big love and second chances. Chloe came back to her family house after the death of her farther. Chloe wants to sell the house after a make over, because her life is now in London. Her return to the town comes with some painful memories and when she meet Amy, her schoolfriend, all that memories comes back. The book is about second chances and forgiveness. I like the thought about building bridges and new starts.
July 7, 2023
Based on the book’s synopsis the theme was not new so I didn’t expect much going in. However, as the story unfolded the characters seemed to grow on me. The stock characters were amusing, the sense of family and community filled the gaps in the story that wasn’t about the MCs romance. What surprised me was my sudden emotional reaction a quarter in the book. Everything up to a certain point in the book was emotionally benign until I found myself crying. It was such an unexpected physical reaction to the previously thought mild storyline which lead me to conclude that the emotional grip of the story latched on deeper than expected. Compliments to the writer for their expertise in hijacking emotions covertly.
August 9, 2022
ARC received via Ylva in exchange for an honest review.
Second chance romances can be a bit of a mixed bag, but I enjoyed this one. Here, we have Chloe, who is returning to her small UK village to renovate her childhood home following the death of her father. The other MC is Amy, who returned to the village some years back to help with the family farm. Chloe and Amy were BFFs as kids/teens but haven’t seen each other since Chloe left the town due to Amy’s handling of rumours about them being gay as teens. Since their properties border each other, they run into each other pretty quickly, which brings up all the “feels”. Chloe was heartbroken by Amy’s treatment of her, so wants nothing to do with Amy and Amy is ashamed of how she treated Chloe.
One thing that I appreciated was how quickly this was resolved. Amy apologised up front for what she did and Chloe didn’t take too long to forgive her. I also liked the chemistry between the MCs, I believed they loved each other then, and could see how those feelings carried over into the present. I also thought their relationship unfolded realistically and appreciate the lack of contrived drama towards the end. I also liked how Chloe came to appreciate her small town and the people in it and discover that she was accepted there for who she was (as was Amy).
Amy’s brother was a bit of a jerk, and I didn’t really like him, even after his part in their break up was resolved. The rest of the supporting characters are really good though, particularly Chloe’s BFF Naomi (who I hope gets her own book) and Naomi’s family, Amy’s family were also lovely (with the exception of the brother) and I loved her nephews.
Both characters are interesting separately and together and their relationship is sweet enough that I was rooting for their HEA. If you like second chance romances, then this should hit the spot. 3.75 stars.
Second chance romances can be a bit of a mixed bag, but I enjoyed this one. Here, we have Chloe, who is returning to her small UK village to renovate her childhood home following the death of her father. The other MC is Amy, who returned to the village some years back to help with the family farm. Chloe and Amy were BFFs as kids/teens but haven’t seen each other since Chloe left the town due to Amy’s handling of rumours about them being gay as teens. Since their properties border each other, they run into each other pretty quickly, which brings up all the “feels”. Chloe was heartbroken by Amy’s treatment of her, so wants nothing to do with Amy and Amy is ashamed of how she treated Chloe.
One thing that I appreciated was how quickly this was resolved. Amy apologised up front for what she did and Chloe didn’t take too long to forgive her. I also liked the chemistry between the MCs, I believed they loved each other then, and could see how those feelings carried over into the present. I also thought their relationship unfolded realistically and appreciate the lack of contrived drama towards the end. I also liked how Chloe came to appreciate her small town and the people in it and discover that she was accepted there for who she was (as was Amy).
Amy’s brother was a bit of a jerk, and I didn’t really like him, even after his part in their break up was resolved. The rest of the supporting characters are really good though, particularly Chloe’s BFF Naomi (who I hope gets her own book) and Naomi’s family, Amy’s family were also lovely (with the exception of the brother) and I loved her nephews.
Both characters are interesting separately and together and their relationship is sweet enough that I was rooting for their HEA. If you like second chance romances, then this should hit the spot. 3.75 stars.
December 8, 2021
A second chance romance with leads Chloe and Amy reacquainted after 18 years. Chloe is a property developer who has returned to renovate her family home and sell it. Amy went back home some years prior to help run the family dairy farm. Teenage hurt from rumors and anger had fractured their friendship and budding romance but now heartfelt apologies and discussion leads to healing and the formation of something new. Supporting characters are well fleshed out in Leanne, Gabi, Naomi and a few others. Chloe soon finds herself becoming the village fix-it girl and initial reservations from B.F. Naomi eventually thaw with her warm, rambunctious Jamaican family drawing Amy into the fold. Mind you, Amy has her Mom and sister-in-law meddling also. This storyline was nicely pulled together with a good dose of bedroom heat and I read without stopping hoping for a HEA. Good job Ms. Sommers. One aspect that stuck out was the book cover - sheep didn't fit the bill, cows did!
I rec'd a copy through Ylva Publishing and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
I rec'd a copy through Ylva Publishing and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
December 15, 2021
A lovely story!
Chloe is home to renovate her late father’s house when she runs into Amy, the woman she first fell in love with but Amy isn’t as pleased to find Chloe is back. Amy decides trying to reconnect with Chloe is better than trying to avoid her but that stirs up old feelings and then worries about what happened between them in the past. That leaves both Chloe and Amy questioning whether they should try again.
Such a lovely story with a little drama and tension between the main characters to build tensions and deliver beautiful moments as they reconnected, firstly as friends, before they explored further feelings. The welcome that Chloe had upon arriving home eluded to it being a friendly place, which made for quite a cosy story and so Amy’s change of heart was expected but also unexpected in some ways.
The fact that most of the focus was on them getting to know one another again and their surroundings rather than the task that Chloe had returned home to do was really nice. It was also interesting that she was committed to her decisions to only be back temporarily and that she was going stick to her plans, even when she was reconnecting with Amy until she couldn’t deny her feelings any longer and had to reconsider what she wanted. It was so exciting, capturing my imagination as I wondered what decision Chloe was going to make, and it seemed she was determined to make it work with Amy no matter her choice.
Amy and Chloe had a great connection that was easy to get swept up in. I was hooked from that first tense moment when Amy realised Chloe was aback and why, which kept me completely immersed in what was going to happen between them until the very end.
I highly recommend the story for anyone who loves a great second-chance romance.
Chloe is home to renovate her late father’s house when she runs into Amy, the woman she first fell in love with but Amy isn’t as pleased to find Chloe is back. Amy decides trying to reconnect with Chloe is better than trying to avoid her but that stirs up old feelings and then worries about what happened between them in the past. That leaves both Chloe and Amy questioning whether they should try again.
Such a lovely story with a little drama and tension between the main characters to build tensions and deliver beautiful moments as they reconnected, firstly as friends, before they explored further feelings. The welcome that Chloe had upon arriving home eluded to it being a friendly place, which made for quite a cosy story and so Amy’s change of heart was expected but also unexpected in some ways.
The fact that most of the focus was on them getting to know one another again and their surroundings rather than the task that Chloe had returned home to do was really nice. It was also interesting that she was committed to her decisions to only be back temporarily and that she was going stick to her plans, even when she was reconnecting with Amy until she couldn’t deny her feelings any longer and had to reconsider what she wanted. It was so exciting, capturing my imagination as I wondered what decision Chloe was going to make, and it seemed she was determined to make it work with Amy no matter her choice.
Amy and Chloe had a great connection that was easy to get swept up in. I was hooked from that first tense moment when Amy realised Chloe was aback and why, which kept me completely immersed in what was going to happen between them until the very end.
I highly recommend the story for anyone who loves a great second-chance romance.
November 6, 2021
Great start. I want to know what happened. I want to see more of the secondary characters.
I read a book recently with a similar plot line but this felt fresh and well written. The characters were three dimensional. Interactions with secondary characters weren’t just fleeting to make a point. The whole section around the day of the dead commemoration moved me in a way I didn’t expect - especially as I had been reading the section before with a grin on my face.
90%. The inevitable romance plot arc has happened. Although I am internally asking why! Why not continue and I am not sure the writer has quite made the case, I also can’t stop reading to see these two together. It’s not a stupid misunderstanding and it’s not a breakdown in communication. It’s that totally real life block of fear, and it is over come and reading every last word of it being overcome gave me great joy, as this whole book did! 5 stars because 4 would be short changing it, and the writer didn’t short change me so I’m not short changing them.
I read a book recently with a similar plot line but this felt fresh and well written. The characters were three dimensional. Interactions with secondary characters weren’t just fleeting to make a point. The whole section around the day of the dead commemoration moved me in a way I didn’t expect - especially as I had been reading the section before with a grin on my face.
90%. The inevitable romance plot arc has happened. Although I am internally asking why! Why not continue and I am not sure the writer has quite made the case, I also can’t stop reading to see these two together. It’s not a stupid misunderstanding and it’s not a breakdown in communication. It’s that totally real life block of fear, and it is over come and reading every last word of it being overcome gave me great joy, as this whole book did! 5 stars because 4 would be short changing it, and the writer didn’t short change me so I’m not short changing them.
November 11, 2022
6/10
i dont know why i generally find side characters and their relationships more interesting. they just seem way more fun than the main story does i guess.
the mcs, chloe and amy, were okay, though i just couldnt see the chemistry between them at any point.
when i thought it was nearing the end i checked the audiobook and realized its only halfway done. i guess some things were a bit boring to me by then.
im usually really not a fan of the trope here but i though itd be worth checking out since i really liked "chemistry" by the same author that i read a couple of weeks ago. maybe ill even pick up "never say never" - though im sure, not being the biggest fan of age gap either, ill still like "chemistry" more (didnt that one also have age gap tho um idk ill have to do a review on it to refresh my memory lol).
i recommend this book to everyone who wants a safe classic second chance romance story.
9/10 audio
sienna frances did a splended job and i think i heard her narration in at least one other book. the english (non-american) is, every time, such a breath of fresh air.
i dont know why i generally find side characters and their relationships more interesting. they just seem way more fun than the main story does i guess.
the mcs, chloe and amy, were okay, though i just couldnt see the chemistry between them at any point.
when i thought it was nearing the end i checked the audiobook and realized its only halfway done. i guess some things were a bit boring to me by then.
im usually really not a fan of the trope here but i though itd be worth checking out since i really liked "chemistry" by the same author that i read a couple of weeks ago. maybe ill even pick up "never say never" - though im sure, not being the biggest fan of age gap either, ill still like "chemistry" more (didnt that one also have age gap tho um idk ill have to do a review on it to refresh my memory lol).
i recommend this book to everyone who wants a safe classic second chance romance story.
9/10 audio
sienna frances did a splended job and i think i heard her narration in at least one other book. the english (non-american) is, every time, such a breath of fresh air.
December 13, 2021
3.75 Stars. For me, this was a nice, cozy second chance at love romance that doesn't judge the characters too harshly. It works well at what it does - lets the longing simmer a little, then a 'mistake' happens and the pair have a bit of an epiphany, and bam they're dating. It's also taking place around one character (Chloe) renovating the interior of her family home after her father died.
What I think would have made the story even better would have been to delve a little deeper into Amy Edward's past and being more comfortable with herself as a lesbian. Her whole reason for basically dumping her long time friend turned girlfriend, Chloe, was the whole horrible abuse that was hurtled at Chloe for being obviously a lesbian (I couldn't tell if she was out or people just assumed because she was a tomboy). Either way - the experience was traumatic for both of them, and Amy took it out on Chloe by distancing herself from her in a not so great way. The story isn't as interested in getting into that as much as showing that the characters were more or less thriving despite the experience. They just needed to both see each other to heal more fully.
I didn't need the chemistry to be super prevalent because the baseline for Chloe and Amy was always there, they never stopped caring for the other, and I believe their time away just made their ability to love each other much stronger. They just needed to see each other again; for Amy to apologize and for Chloe to be a little more confidant in her own worth. And you can see that, with Chloe's found family, and Amy's family showing that they're both very loved.
I don't think this is a spicier romance, and that's fine by me. There's a lot of sex scenes, but they feel more... reaffirming? Like I don't think they were meant to be super steamy, just puzzle pieces clicking into their right spaces. That interested me on a whole other level so kuddos on that. Over all though, I'd say this is just a cozy romance that doesn't do a lot of dramatics but gives you the warm and fuzzies when its all over.
*I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What I think would have made the story even better would have been to delve a little deeper into Amy Edward's past and being more comfortable with herself as a lesbian. Her whole reason for basically dumping her long time friend turned girlfriend, Chloe, was the whole horrible abuse that was hurtled at Chloe for being obviously a lesbian (I couldn't tell if she was out or people just assumed because she was a tomboy). Either way - the experience was traumatic for both of them, and Amy took it out on Chloe by distancing herself from her in a not so great way. The story isn't as interested in getting into that as much as showing that the characters were more or less thriving despite the experience. They just needed to both see each other to heal more fully.
I didn't need the chemistry to be super prevalent because the baseline for Chloe and Amy was always there, they never stopped caring for the other, and I believe their time away just made their ability to love each other much stronger. They just needed to see each other again; for Amy to apologize and for Chloe to be a little more confidant in her own worth. And you can see that, with Chloe's found family, and Amy's family showing that they're both very loved.
I don't think this is a spicier romance, and that's fine by me. There's a lot of sex scenes, but they feel more... reaffirming? Like I don't think they were meant to be super steamy, just puzzle pieces clicking into their right spaces. That interested me on a whole other level so kuddos on that. Over all though, I'd say this is just a cozy romance that doesn't do a lot of dramatics but gives you the warm and fuzzies when its all over.
*I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 8, 2021
Awesome collection of characters populate angsty 'blast from the past' romance
I read Fool for Love quickly over a weekend sitting for long periods of time to really immerse in the locations and surround myself with the characters. I loved the characters in this book and got caught up emotionally in the story for the last part of it which I did not expect to happen. The main and secondary characters are great, many of the secondaries like the kids and older mothers steal scenes thanks to their charm and the endearing antics you can so easily imagine; Amy's and Chloe's best friends are the kind you'd want on your side to both support and defend you as the situation required. There is a 'will they/won't they' question that permeates the story and does keep the reader guessing as to how it will end so you're in suspense until the end which is a welcome change from the lesfic stories I've read before this. If your only exposure to British village life stems from TV murder mysteries this story will be a refreshing change with the nosiness of locals offset by fierce community spirit and helping out those who need it however they can; there is a beautiful kindness that permeates the village where Amy's family lives. The contrast between the village and bustling London is highlighted but both places are shown in a mostly positive light rather than one being preferable over the other. There is humor that helps to keep the drama (from the past and present) from becoming too much and the suspense of wondering how it will end makes for a good balance and enjoyable read.
The ending may not satisfy all readers but I think it sets up the opportunity for the author to follow-up with city and/or village centered short stories featuring these characters, perhaps a sequel and/or another full-length novel which follows Chloe's best friend Naomi in her own developing relationship. I'd be keen to read any or all of these stories if and when they're published in the future.
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I read Fool for Love quickly over a weekend sitting for long periods of time to really immerse in the locations and surround myself with the characters. I loved the characters in this book and got caught up emotionally in the story for the last part of it which I did not expect to happen. The main and secondary characters are great, many of the secondaries like the kids and older mothers steal scenes thanks to their charm and the endearing antics you can so easily imagine; Amy's and Chloe's best friends are the kind you'd want on your side to both support and defend you as the situation required. There is a 'will they/won't they' question that permeates the story and does keep the reader guessing as to how it will end so you're in suspense until the end which is a welcome change from the lesfic stories I've read before this. If your only exposure to British village life stems from TV murder mysteries this story will be a refreshing change with the nosiness of locals offset by fierce community spirit and helping out those who need it however they can; there is a beautiful kindness that permeates the village where Amy's family lives. The contrast between the village and bustling London is highlighted but both places are shown in a mostly positive light rather than one being preferable over the other. There is humor that helps to keep the drama (from the past and present) from becoming too much and the suspense of wondering how it will end makes for a good balance and enjoyable read.
The ending may not satisfy all readers but I think it sets up the opportunity for the author to follow-up with city and/or village centered short stories featuring these characters, perhaps a sequel and/or another full-length novel which follows Chloe's best friend Naomi in her own developing relationship. I'd be keen to read any or all of these stories if and when they're published in the future.
I received an advance reading copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2021
When Chloe's father dies, she heads back to the small town where she grew up to update his house to sell. After leaving decades ago with a slew of bad memories, she doesn't expect to be warmly welcomed by the town, and definitely doesn't except to come face to face with her once love Amy. Amy's family still lives next door to Chloe all these years later, and an invitation to dinner leaves Chloe feeling like almost no time has passed at all, certainly her attraction to Amy hasn't changed. But Chloe's life is in London, and Amy's life is here, so when the house is sold will Chloe's time reunited with the past be over as well?
I adored Rachael Sommer's first book, and while I liked this one, it didn't have the same oomf as the first. While it was a second chance romance, I guess I was missing a little more tension and chemistry between Chloe and Amy. Still, they worked really well together, and I loved seeing how the years had only made them grow and become even more compatible. Although I had hoped for a resolution of their second chance in the end. I really loved the setting, the renovation and details of Chloe's job, and all the characters that make up Amy and Chloe's family and friends. It was a very cozy book, very heartwarming, perfect for reading during the first snows of the winter.
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
I adored Rachael Sommer's first book, and while I liked this one, it didn't have the same oomf as the first. While it was a second chance romance, I guess I was missing a little more tension and chemistry between Chloe and Amy. Still, they worked really well together, and I loved seeing how the years had only made them grow and become even more compatible. Although I had hoped for a resolution of their second chance in the end. I really loved the setting, the renovation and details of Chloe's job, and all the characters that make up Amy and Chloe's family and friends. It was a very cozy book, very heartwarming, perfect for reading during the first snows of the winter.
I received an ARC from YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this entertaining read
this is my second book by this author and again she pulled me right into the characters and made me enjoy my time in their lives, think i even recognised a few that could be in my family
chloe roberts has one thing on her mind to sort out her parents house get it up to standard and then sell it and never have to go back there ever again and if she could do that without seeing anyone from the village even better....
yeah right stuck in the middle of the road with cows surrounding her and then the one person she never hoped to see again amy edwards comes riding up to move the cows along...could life get any worse....
yeah it does.... when amy mom comes and invites them for dinner....
this is a book about regret. young love, peer pressure but its also about forgiveness
looking forward to reading more from this autho
this is my second book by this author and again she pulled me right into the characters and made me enjoy my time in their lives, think i even recognised a few that could be in my family
chloe roberts has one thing on her mind to sort out her parents house get it up to standard and then sell it and never have to go back there ever again and if she could do that without seeing anyone from the village even better....
yeah right stuck in the middle of the road with cows surrounding her and then the one person she never hoped to see again amy edwards comes riding up to move the cows along...could life get any worse....
yeah it does.... when amy mom comes and invites them for dinner....
this is a book about regret. young love, peer pressure but its also about forgiveness
looking forward to reading more from this autho
November 24, 2021
What happens when you fall back in love with your childhood love who had treated you badly before? Fool for Love falls under this category. I always have a hard time resolving this issue because once trust has been destroyed, it is so hard to gain it back.
What I liked about this novel was the setting. The small town in which the MCs grew up in has that country feel to it. The town folks rounded up the feel-good feeling regarding the town. I also liked the pace of the romance. It wasn’t rushed or too slow.
What I didn’t like about this novel was the fact that childhood hurts were resolved by apologizing which is not realistic
What I liked about this novel was the setting. The small town in which the MCs grew up in has that country feel to it. The town folks rounded up the feel-good feeling regarding the town. I also liked the pace of the romance. It wasn’t rushed or too slow.
What I didn’t like about this novel was the fact that childhood hurts were resolved by apologizing which is not realistic
November 9, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this really funny, cute, warm love story.
After 18 years Amy and Chloe not having seen or heard from each other, finally tried to get over the damage done then. With Bella, the awesome dog helping..really a story I can only recommend.
I hope readers will enjoy it as much as I have.
After 18 years Amy and Chloe not having seen or heard from each other, finally tried to get over the damage done then. With Bella, the awesome dog helping..really a story I can only recommend.
I hope readers will enjoy it as much as I have.
January 3, 2022
I wanted a book I can just lose myself in and this was just the right fit!
November 26, 2021
ARC REVIEW
I was debating the rating as the book is well written but I fear that the lesfic genre is lacking in original storylines and I’m seeing so many second chance romances at the moment, that I yearn for more thrillers and more adventure for my escapism. But if you like a second chance romance then you would probably rate even higher, so I think 4 star is deserved
I was debating the rating as the book is well written but I fear that the lesfic genre is lacking in original storylines and I’m seeing so many second chance romances at the moment, that I yearn for more thrillers and more adventure for my escapism. But if you like a second chance romance then you would probably rate even higher, so I think 4 star is deserved
November 27, 2021
I’d describe this as a friends-to-enemies-to-lovers romance. Amy and Chloe grew up together and were inseparable until the school rumors occurred. This was painfully familiar. I remember the rumor mill working overtime when close friends had to deal with the same thing in high school, so that thread really resonated.
Both women separately started careers in London, but Amy had to return home to the farm. Chloe stayed in London, starting her own business. They meet again when Chloe’s dad died, leaving her the family home. Both have regrets and their own lives, and are unsure how the other feels. Neither wants to hurt the other or be hurt again themselves. The secondary characters bring this to life as much as anything else does. The families, whether nuclear or found, and the neighbors all have a role, bringing the mains together or shedding light on them through the interactions they have with everyone.
For me, the suspense in romances is how the issues get resolved between the people involved, whatever the outcome. I was invested in who was going to do what in the end and I needed to find out how these two would work things out.
Both women separately started careers in London, but Amy had to return home to the farm. Chloe stayed in London, starting her own business. They meet again when Chloe’s dad died, leaving her the family home. Both have regrets and their own lives, and are unsure how the other feels. Neither wants to hurt the other or be hurt again themselves. The secondary characters bring this to life as much as anything else does. The families, whether nuclear or found, and the neighbors all have a role, bringing the mains together or shedding light on them through the interactions they have with everyone.
For me, the suspense in romances is how the issues get resolved between the people involved, whatever the outcome. I was invested in who was going to do what in the end and I needed to find out how these two would work things out.
June 16, 2025
Stars: 4 Stars
Format: Audiobook
Narrator: Sienna Frances
Series: Stand Alone
Steam Level: Steamy
I read this for the 2025 Sapphic Book Bingo reading challenge for the prompt Childhood Friends-to-Lovers.
I picked this up solely because Rachael Sommers wrote it, it was a happy accident that it fit this prompt. I really enjoy her work and recommend anything she writes.
Quick Thoughts:
- I am usually not a fan of second chance romances but I was willing to try this story just because it was written by Rachael Sommers. So glad I did. I enjoyed it a lot
- LOVE how Amy’s family is fully on board with making Spanish and Gabby’s traditions an important everyday part of everyone’s lives
- I also ADORED that Amy and her family fully recognize, and never even batted an eye, that Naomi’s family was also Chloe’s family and refers to them as such
- Chloe accidentally becoming the village handyperson had me giggling
- Also giggled at how these little old ladies she’s helping are making her oodles of scones
- I want my wife to have the skills Chloe has so I can stare at her all day while she uses those skills
- Bella is the best dog and deserves all the pets and treats in the world
- I really wanted to shake Amy and Chloe towards the end of the book. They were being so dang stubborn (even though it made sense why)
- Did not like how forgiving Chloe was with Daniel. While he does grow as a person, most of that is just casually mentioned, so it makes it hard for me to get on board with his growth
- Also it kinda irked me that Chloe spent all those years away from her home village due to how she was treated but that hurt was just glossed over once she arrived. At least Amy and Daniel acknowledged their mistakes and apologized
- The big reason this was not a five star book for me was that I’m not very fond of stories that end almost immediately after the protagonists commit to a relationship. I want a better payoff for going through all that angst and see them being happy together
- Sienna Frances was a fantastic narrator in this. I had listened to her narrate The Rakess (a M/F romance) which I had realized about ten minutes into the book (“wait, why does she sound familiar? OH!”). She did an excellent job with the calm pacing of this book while also making the love scenes passionate
Overall I very much enjoyed this story where “nothing happens” and we watch two idiots fall in love. Even with the bits that bothered me, I am glad I bumped this up on my TBR for this book challenge. I just wish we got a peek into their lives a few years into the future.
Format: Audiobook
Narrator: Sienna Frances
Series: Stand Alone
Steam Level: Steamy
I read this for the 2025 Sapphic Book Bingo reading challenge for the prompt Childhood Friends-to-Lovers.
I picked this up solely because Rachael Sommers wrote it, it was a happy accident that it fit this prompt. I really enjoy her work and recommend anything she writes.
Quick Thoughts:
- I am usually not a fan of second chance romances but I was willing to try this story just because it was written by Rachael Sommers. So glad I did. I enjoyed it a lot
- LOVE how Amy’s family is fully on board with making Spanish and Gabby’s traditions an important everyday part of everyone’s lives
- I also ADORED that Amy and her family fully recognize, and never even batted an eye, that Naomi’s family was also Chloe’s family and refers to them as such
- Chloe accidentally becoming the village handyperson had me giggling
- Also giggled at how these little old ladies she’s helping are making her oodles of scones
- I want my wife to have the skills Chloe has so I can stare at her all day while she uses those skills
- Bella is the best dog and deserves all the pets and treats in the world
- I really wanted to shake Amy and Chloe towards the end of the book. They were being so dang stubborn (even though it made sense why)
- Did not like how forgiving Chloe was with Daniel. While he does grow as a person, most of that is just casually mentioned, so it makes it hard for me to get on board with his growth
- Also it kinda irked me that Chloe spent all those years away from her home village due to how she was treated but that hurt was just glossed over once she arrived. At least Amy and Daniel acknowledged their mistakes and apologized
- The big reason this was not a five star book for me was that I’m not very fond of stories that end almost immediately after the protagonists commit to a relationship. I want a better payoff for going through all that angst and see them being happy together
- Sienna Frances was a fantastic narrator in this. I had listened to her narrate The Rakess (a M/F romance) which I had realized about ten minutes into the book (“wait, why does she sound familiar? OH!”). She did an excellent job with the calm pacing of this book while also making the love scenes passionate
Overall I very much enjoyed this story where “nothing happens” and we watch two idiots fall in love. Even with the bits that bothered me, I am glad I bumped this up on my TBR for this book challenge. I just wish we got a peek into their lives a few years into the future.
February 18, 2024
This is a tale of love, loss, and rediscovery that will leave you immersed in the story. The slower pacing sets the stage for a mesmerizing slow burn romance that unfolds with exquisite beauty and depth. From the first page to the last, the prose is nothing short of wonderful, drawing you into Chloe's world with its vivid imagery and heartfelt emotions.
Following her father's passing, Chloe's sole objective is to renovate and sell the family home swiftly, hoping to leave her painful past behind for good. However, fate has other plans when she unexpectedly crosses paths with Amy, her first love. As their paths converge once again, old wounds resurface, and the journey towards forgiveness and reconciliation begins.
What truly set this story apart for me is its exploration of first love, second chances, and the power of forgiveness. Through Chloe and Amy's intertwined journey, we witness the complexity of human emotions and the resilience of the heart. The gradual development of their relationship is portrayed with such authenticity and tenderness, leaving you rooting for their undeniable connection.
Moreover, the supporting cast of family and friends adds depth and warmth to the narrative, underscoring the importance of love and acceptance in overcoming life's challenges. Chloe and Amy's love story is not only about finding each other again but also about finding solace and healing in the embrace of loved ones.
In the end, this story is a poignant reminder that true love knows no bounds and that forgiveness has the power to mend even the deepest of wounds. It's a story that resonates long after the final page is turned, leaving you with a renewed sense of hope and the belief that, indeed, love conquers all.
Following her father's passing, Chloe's sole objective is to renovate and sell the family home swiftly, hoping to leave her painful past behind for good. However, fate has other plans when she unexpectedly crosses paths with Amy, her first love. As their paths converge once again, old wounds resurface, and the journey towards forgiveness and reconciliation begins.
What truly set this story apart for me is its exploration of first love, second chances, and the power of forgiveness. Through Chloe and Amy's intertwined journey, we witness the complexity of human emotions and the resilience of the heart. The gradual development of their relationship is portrayed with such authenticity and tenderness, leaving you rooting for their undeniable connection.
Moreover, the supporting cast of family and friends adds depth and warmth to the narrative, underscoring the importance of love and acceptance in overcoming life's challenges. Chloe and Amy's love story is not only about finding each other again but also about finding solace and healing in the embrace of loved ones.
In the end, this story is a poignant reminder that true love knows no bounds and that forgiveness has the power to mend even the deepest of wounds. It's a story that resonates long after the final page is turned, leaving you with a renewed sense of hope and the belief that, indeed, love conquers all.
April 24, 2024
This is my third book by the author in the same week and I appreciate that each one is different. This one is a second chance romance unlike the other two I read it is not slow burn. Fool for Love has Chloe Roberts returning to her small country village a few hours from London where she lives. She is there to renovate her family house after father’s passing away with plans to sell and make a profit. She is surprised to find her childhood best friend and first love, Amy Edwards, is still in town and working on the dairy farm with her brother and her family. Chloe was left feeling hurt and betrayed by Amy when they were 17. Now they are 36 and their lives have gone in differing directions.
Amy wanted to be a photographer and was achieving her goals when an accident with her brother brought her home to help on the farm. She has made the best of what life gave her. Chloe has gone onto a career that she enjoys running her own property development company. I like that Amy steps up quickly to apologize for her past actions and she isn’t afraid to confess her attraction now. Wanting to spend time together has Chloe looking forward to her weekends spent remodeling and being with Amy.
I love the flow of the book with the side characters from Amy’s family and Chloe’s found family. There are rich interactions there. The angst dilemma is predictable because it is spelled out early. There is a time limit to how long Chloe will be coming to town. There is plenty of heat on the page and the only thing that kept me from being five stars from me is the more open ending. I wanted the couple to be together and an epilogue would have helped seal the HEA for me.
Amy wanted to be a photographer and was achieving her goals when an accident with her brother brought her home to help on the farm. She has made the best of what life gave her. Chloe has gone onto a career that she enjoys running her own property development company. I like that Amy steps up quickly to apologize for her past actions and she isn’t afraid to confess her attraction now. Wanting to spend time together has Chloe looking forward to her weekends spent remodeling and being with Amy.
I love the flow of the book with the side characters from Amy’s family and Chloe’s found family. There are rich interactions there. The angst dilemma is predictable because it is spelled out early. There is a time limit to how long Chloe will be coming to town. There is plenty of heat on the page and the only thing that kept me from being five stars from me is the more open ending. I wanted the couple to be together and an epilogue would have helped seal the HEA for me.
September 12, 2025
There's a lot about this book that seems very ordinary and the settings at least a little clichéd, but it gels so well that I'll give it four for an engaging story and sweet well-written romance, while maybe not being as adventurous as it could.
I would have liked to have seen more about what happened a decade earlier. We can understand the fallout, but not enough of the details of the situation to know why it caused so much pain. And forgiveness came too quickly and easily. (And inexplicably in one case. )
As in so many romances, each protag knows how strong the other's feeling is for her, but somehow can't risk sharing her own feelings in case it breaks their relationship. That would have worked so much better if there had been ongoing tension between them.
Still, it was a touching story in a lovely setting.
I listened (as usual) to the audiobook, and that was a bit of a strange experience. Five minutes in I went back to Audible information to see if I was listening to a "virtual voice" AI narration. No, it's a real narrator (Sienna Frances). And her flat tone doesn't really change for the non-dialog text, but it's so radically different with dialog that I can only assume she keeps the narration low key to avoid clashing with dialog. Her characterizations are incredibly good. Maybe even better than Lori Prince, who I think is my favorite. A day later I'm still finding that I'm missing the sweet tones of Chloe in my ear. This book is definitely improved by its narrator, as odd as the first few minutes are.
I would have liked to have seen more about what happened a decade earlier. We can understand the fallout, but not enough of the details of the situation to know why it caused so much pain. And forgiveness came too quickly and easily. (And inexplicably in one case. )
As in so many romances, each protag knows how strong the other's feeling is for her, but somehow can't risk sharing her own feelings in case it breaks their relationship. That would have worked so much better if there had been ongoing tension between them.
Still, it was a touching story in a lovely setting.
I listened (as usual) to the audiobook, and that was a bit of a strange experience. Five minutes in I went back to Audible information to see if I was listening to a "virtual voice" AI narration. No, it's a real narrator (Sienna Frances). And her flat tone doesn't really change for the non-dialog text, but it's so radically different with dialog that I can only assume she keeps the narration low key to avoid clashing with dialog. Her characterizations are incredibly good. Maybe even better than Lori Prince, who I think is my favorite. A day later I'm still finding that I'm missing the sweet tones of Chloe in my ear. This book is definitely improved by its narrator, as odd as the first few minutes are.
December 16, 2021
I got a free ARC from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
"Fool for Love" is a rural, slow, second chance romance. When he father dies, Chloe comes back to her small town childhood home to fix up his house and get it ready for sale. To her consternation, she can't seem to avoid Amy, her childhood best friend and first love, who broke her heart and treated her cruelly when they were teenagers.
Chloe has a happy life in London, but begins to see the appeal of small town living. As she and Amy slowly mend their friendship they give romance a second chance. (Spoiler: it goes well.)
This is a slow, cosy book, low on the drama, high on the charming English village detail. Chloe and Amy are likeable enough as protagonists, if a tad generic They are well portrayed as two adults well established in their lives, shaped but not defined by the imperfect choices of their pasts.
More interesting, perhaps, than Chloe and Amy are the cast of secondary characters who are vivid and varied. There's probably room for a least one spin-off there. Amy's and Chloe's professional and family lives are less generic than their romance and a plus for the book.
If, in these troubled times, you'd like to imagine yourself falling back in love with an in an idyllic village, you could do much worse than this book.
"Fool for Love" is a rural, slow, second chance romance. When he father dies, Chloe comes back to her small town childhood home to fix up his house and get it ready for sale. To her consternation, she can't seem to avoid Amy, her childhood best friend and first love, who broke her heart and treated her cruelly when they were teenagers.
Chloe has a happy life in London, but begins to see the appeal of small town living. As she and Amy slowly mend their friendship they give romance a second chance. (Spoiler: it goes well.)
This is a slow, cosy book, low on the drama, high on the charming English village detail. Chloe and Amy are likeable enough as protagonists, if a tad generic They are well portrayed as two adults well established in their lives, shaped but not defined by the imperfect choices of their pasts.
More interesting, perhaps, than Chloe and Amy are the cast of secondary characters who are vivid and varied. There's probably room for a least one spin-off there. Amy's and Chloe's professional and family lives are less generic than their romance and a plus for the book.
If, in these troubled times, you'd like to imagine yourself falling back in love with an in an idyllic village, you could do much worse than this book.
March 5, 2024
Childhood friends Chloe and Amy had lives that ended up with rumors in school, and life taking them in different directions, ending in heartache and losing touch. While Amy runs a farm, Chloe starts her own business in England. Separate and distant lives. That is, until the unfortunate passing of her father.. Now Chloe has to come back to their hometown, and is going to fix up her father's old home. She is nervous of running into Amy. There is so much history, Going from inseperable to strangers.
Chloe goes back and forth from the city to the county, where her father's house is. She is good with a hammer, and isn't afraid to get dirty. Running a farm, as you can imagine, neither is Amy. We go from awkwardness with some resentment, so cautious conversation, to right back being so comfortable just existing together, and falling in love. Is it the instant passion some may look for? No. However, I love the comfort they have together. That is something special.
This is my first time reading a book by Rachel Sommers, and it will not be my last. I enjoyed this cozy sapphic romance.
Thank you to NetGallry and Vlva Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Chloe goes back and forth from the city to the county, where her father's house is. She is good with a hammer, and isn't afraid to get dirty. Running a farm, as you can imagine, neither is Amy. We go from awkwardness with some resentment, so cautious conversation, to right back being so comfortable just existing together, and falling in love. Is it the instant passion some may look for? No. However, I love the comfort they have together. That is something special.
This is my first time reading a book by Rachel Sommers, and it will not be my last. I enjoyed this cozy sapphic romance.
Thank you to NetGallry and Vlva Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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