What do you think?
Rate this book
The Herbalist
Eden Martin had the perfect life in New York City: an amazing job as a professor, successful fiancée, great apartment on the Upper West Side. But in one night her whole world comes crashing down. So, she does what any sensible woman would do, she abandons her life and moves to a tiny village in England, leaving everyone and everything behind. Lost and confused, a new life emerges as she follows her dream to write a book, In the process, she meets a local healer, the last in a centuries-long line of magical herbalists. She also finds love, and challenges, in ways she could never have imagined. In this village of strange and mystical events, Eden finally learns that finding love, hope, or even your destiny can’t provide happiness until you find yourself.
329 pages, Paperback
First published February 20, 2022
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 339 reviews
October 14, 2026
Oh, I loved this one! Cosy, romantic and with a little touch of magic. I was more than happy to escape into Eden’s world, and Heather Morrison made it such a lovely place to be.
Eden Martin is a professor of medieval history in New York City, engaged to Robert, an investment banker at a top Wall Street firm. They’ve been together since graduate school, so you’d think everything was going swimmingly. That is, until Eden receives the heartbreaking news that her beloved grandmother has died.
When Eden goes to see Robert, she discovers him tangled in the bedsheets with another woman. Oh, Robert, what have you done? She’s just lost her grandmother, and now she’s faced with this as well! Honestly, the poor woman can’t catch a break. With her grandmother’s funeral calling her to England and her relationship in tatters, Eden heads across the pond. I can’t say I blame her!
In the English village of Barton Heath, Eden finds herself in a 400-year-old thatched cottage and meets Hazel Welsh, the village herbalist. Hazel knows all about plants and their healing properties, but there’s something intriguing about her. She’s been expecting Eden, and I was curious to find out what was going on. Well, you know me, I do love a little mystery!
I loved learning about the different herbs and their healing properties. It’s not something I know a great deal about, so I found that side of the story fascinating. I came away feeling I’d learned something, which is always a bonus when you’re enjoying a good book!
And Heather Morrison’s descriptive writing? Phenomenal! I could picture Barton Heath, the old cottage and the world Eden was stepping into so clearly. I felt as though I was right there alongside her. The story flowed beautifully, drawing me further into Eden’s life, and I found myself completely captivated. There’s something about the way Heather brings the setting to life that makes you want to settle in, put the kettle on and stay a while. Honestly, that cottage sounds right up my street!
I also loved watching Eden discover a new side of herself. Sometimes life takes us in a direction we never expected, and I enjoyed seeing her find her feet again after everything she’d been through.
And yes, there’s romance! Eden meets James, a handsome widowed vet with a young daughter, who becomes her new boyfriend. Now, you lovely lot know I’m not usually a romance girlie, but I really enjoyed this part of the story. It felt lovely to see Eden find the possibility of happiness again, and I was rooting for her.
What made this book such a pleasure was the whole package. The charming English village, the cosy cottage, the fascinating herbal remedies and that little sprinkle of magic all came together beautifully. I was completely swept up in the story, and Heather’s writing made it easy to lose myself in Eden’s world.
If you fancy a cosy read with a little mystery, a touch of magic and some romance thrown in, this might be one to pop on your list. As for me, I loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and Heather Morrison for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publishing date: 9 October 2026
Eden Martin is a professor of medieval history in New York City, engaged to Robert, an investment banker at a top Wall Street firm. They’ve been together since graduate school, so you’d think everything was going swimmingly. That is, until Eden receives the heartbreaking news that her beloved grandmother has died.
When Eden goes to see Robert, she discovers him tangled in the bedsheets with another woman. Oh, Robert, what have you done? She’s just lost her grandmother, and now she’s faced with this as well! Honestly, the poor woman can’t catch a break. With her grandmother’s funeral calling her to England and her relationship in tatters, Eden heads across the pond. I can’t say I blame her!
In the English village of Barton Heath, Eden finds herself in a 400-year-old thatched cottage and meets Hazel Welsh, the village herbalist. Hazel knows all about plants and their healing properties, but there’s something intriguing about her. She’s been expecting Eden, and I was curious to find out what was going on. Well, you know me, I do love a little mystery!
I loved learning about the different herbs and their healing properties. It’s not something I know a great deal about, so I found that side of the story fascinating. I came away feeling I’d learned something, which is always a bonus when you’re enjoying a good book!
And Heather Morrison’s descriptive writing? Phenomenal! I could picture Barton Heath, the old cottage and the world Eden was stepping into so clearly. I felt as though I was right there alongside her. The story flowed beautifully, drawing me further into Eden’s life, and I found myself completely captivated. There’s something about the way Heather brings the setting to life that makes you want to settle in, put the kettle on and stay a while. Honestly, that cottage sounds right up my street!
I also loved watching Eden discover a new side of herself. Sometimes life takes us in a direction we never expected, and I enjoyed seeing her find her feet again after everything she’d been through.
And yes, there’s romance! Eden meets James, a handsome widowed vet with a young daughter, who becomes her new boyfriend. Now, you lovely lot know I’m not usually a romance girlie, but I really enjoyed this part of the story. It felt lovely to see Eden find the possibility of happiness again, and I was rooting for her.
What made this book such a pleasure was the whole package. The charming English village, the cosy cottage, the fascinating herbal remedies and that little sprinkle of magic all came together beautifully. I was completely swept up in the story, and Heather’s writing made it easy to lose myself in Eden’s world.
If you fancy a cosy read with a little mystery, a touch of magic and some romance thrown in, this might be one to pop on your list. As for me, I loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and Heather Morrison for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publishing date: 9 October 2026
September 30, 2022
ThIs is a sweet story about an American educator returning to her roots in England and finding her purpose. Enjoyable!
May 1, 2022
Herbs Do Heal People whose mind and body and spirit are willing and open to the potential.
I’ve been an herbalist for 40 years, a doctor for 30. This book reminded me of the power of nature to heal. If only there was not so much greed And money in the western medicine model, people would benefit from both just as they did in this precious book. The awakening in the protagonist should also be viewed an awakening in our country – the USA. Reliably trained herbalists and natural medicine Practitioners have so much to offer individuals who suffer in the medical gap of subclinical and auto immune disorders. Educators empowering people to take better care of their health with better diet, exercise, and yes, herbs that can heal would make a profound difference in healthcare. Patients would not have to get just prescription disease care, surgery, and drugs. Wellness care could revolutionize the dismal focus and outcome of treating cancer by preventing it in the first place.
I’ve been an herbalist for 40 years, a doctor for 30. This book reminded me of the power of nature to heal. If only there was not so much greed And money in the western medicine model, people would benefit from both just as they did in this precious book. The awakening in the protagonist should also be viewed an awakening in our country – the USA. Reliably trained herbalists and natural medicine Practitioners have so much to offer individuals who suffer in the medical gap of subclinical and auto immune disorders. Educators empowering people to take better care of their health with better diet, exercise, and yes, herbs that can heal would make a profound difference in healthcare. Patients would not have to get just prescription disease care, surgery, and drugs. Wellness care could revolutionize the dismal focus and outcome of treating cancer by preventing it in the first place.
October 6, 2026
This was a nice, soft book which follows Eden just after her grandmother passes away, and Eden finds her boyfriend cheating on her. She travels to England for her grandmother’s funeral and stays on for several months afterwards. She meets an old lady who is a herbalist and this lady takes her under her wings as a sort of apprentice. Eden has been studying medieval herbs for healing in the US, so it is a good fit for her existing knowledge. Eden also meets a nice man, James, and develops a relationship with him. And she also takes in an orphan! Of course, this all has implications as she was given a year off her job at the university in the US and has her return there looming over her shoulders, so there are some big decisions to be made.
While it was easy to read and always engaging, I did feel like there could have been a stronger plot with more tension. It wasn’t without tension, but it was all very mild. Despite that criticism, I did enjoy it well enough and am still giving it four stars.
I recommend it for readers of contemporary fiction who also enjoy a bit of magical realism included. I haven’t mentioned that aspect of the book in my review above, but it was good and added some interest to the book too.
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for sharing an advance reader copy of this book with me. All opinions are my own.
While it was easy to read and always engaging, I did feel like there could have been a stronger plot with more tension. It wasn’t without tension, but it was all very mild. Despite that criticism, I did enjoy it well enough and am still giving it four stars.
I recommend it for readers of contemporary fiction who also enjoy a bit of magical realism included. I haven’t mentioned that aspect of the book in my review above, but it was good and added some interest to the book too.
Thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for sharing an advance reader copy of this book with me. All opinions are my own.
September 16, 2022
I enjoyed this story. I like to read about using herbs for homeopathic medicine. There is also a some magical/mystical elements to the story, and some romance. In a way, it reminded me of some of Author Heather Webber’s stories.
October 17, 2022
Nice story. Terrible editing.
I gave this book 4 stars because I haven't found an interesting novel to read in a long time and this kept my attention. That may be because it's my kind of story -- herbalism, a little magic, rural England -- all my favorite things.
That said, the editing was awful. Too many typos, run on sentences, and simple mistakes. I also lost patience with the main character, Eden. Again, better editing could have helped immensely. There were parts where I thought she came across inconsistently, too immature for her experiences. Now I'm looking at the book cover and the title, thinking that I want to change those things, too.
To our author, Heather Morrison-Tapley, thank you for an entertaining and informative book. Please write more.
To the editor: oh, my, dear. Editing is not your career.
I gave this book 4 stars because I haven't found an interesting novel to read in a long time and this kept my attention. That may be because it's my kind of story -- herbalism, a little magic, rural England -- all my favorite things.
That said, the editing was awful. Too many typos, run on sentences, and simple mistakes. I also lost patience with the main character, Eden. Again, better editing could have helped immensely. There were parts where I thought she came across inconsistently, too immature for her experiences. Now I'm looking at the book cover and the title, thinking that I want to change those things, too.
To our author, Heather Morrison-Tapley, thank you for an entertaining and informative book. Please write more.
To the editor: oh, my, dear. Editing is not your career.
September 30, 2022
unusual pacing
Was excited to read this, and it was a sweet story. The pacing felt incredibly off though. In less than a chapter major events and milestones the story was building towards would be crammed together and over too soon. Then other parts seemed to drag on, but not about things which felt like they added a lot of substance. I wish we got to savor the climaxes a bit more.
Was excited to read this, and it was a sweet story. The pacing felt incredibly off though. In less than a chapter major events and milestones the story was building towards would be crammed together and over too soon. Then other parts seemed to drag on, but not about things which felt like they added a lot of substance. I wish we got to savor the climaxes a bit more.
October 3, 2022
Sweet, needs more editing
Sweet story, if a bit predictable. While I’ve never written a book and cannot begin to imagine the challenges of doing so, this one would have benefited from some additional editing. I was distracted by sentence structure, missing or incorrect punctuation, and even the occasional incorrect word (once for a main character!). If you can get past those things, the book contains a nice story.
Sweet story, if a bit predictable. While I’ve never written a book and cannot begin to imagine the challenges of doing so, this one would have benefited from some additional editing. I was distracted by sentence structure, missing or incorrect punctuation, and even the occasional incorrect word (once for a main character!). If you can get past those things, the book contains a nice story.
July 22, 2023
I think I enjoyed the idea of this book more than the book itself. It's called the Herbalist, but the plot line involving the MC learning herbalism and becoming an herbalist feels more like a subplot, a very minor one. There were many editing errors and I could tell the author struggles with appropriate pacing and setting up scenes. Would love to read some of her work in the future as she works out some kinks in her writing, as I really did see the gold that this story could have been if it were allowed to be fully explored. The author just isn't quite there yet.
January 2, 2024
I’m not sure why this got so many stars on this website. It’s like a Hallmark movie with a little bit of home improvement show thrown in with a little bit of mysticism and a very predictable, plot and ending. Simple structure, no deep descriptions, it just reads really fast… read it in a couple hours, and it was a pleasant enough read to take your mind off the day. But honestly, two stars at best. It almost feels like it’s still in draft form. The margins are funky in the printed copy, and there are a lot of typos.
March 18, 2022
I loved the characters, I loved the story, but I found quite a few mistakes in spelling (reigns for reins, for example), it is a peeve of mine and it took away from the Magic and experience.
September 8, 2026
Review to follow.
Published today.
I enjoyed this book to a certain extent, the story was nice and cosy. The characters were good and well thought out but there was something missing. The idea of the book was better than the actual story. I’m not sure if I would read book 2.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Published today.
I enjoyed this book to a certain extent, the story was nice and cosy. The characters were good and well thought out but there was something missing. The idea of the book was better than the actual story. I’m not sure if I would read book 2.
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
June 2, 2025
It has its good points, but overall a tad disappointing read. Inconsistent pacing for most of the book, even tedious. Waaaay too sweet, stereotypical and predictable, in other words - cringe. Everything is so lovely and easy for the main character that the book departs too much from realism into the realm of fantasy. And it is an appallingly sweet and sticky fantasy that ticks all the boxes and makes you want to gag. The book is partially redeemed by the finale where the heroine realises she has to make some decisions on her own and be honest with herself.
October 12, 2026
The Herbalist by Heather Morrison-Tapley was a beautiful and heartwarming story about love, loss, healing, and finding the courage to begin again. I thoroughly enjoyed this touching novel. It combined a little magic with some very real human emotions.
Eden Martin appeared to have a wonderful life in New York City, which included the perfect job, a great apartment and a handsome and financially secure fiancé. When Eden learned that her beloved grandmother had died and her engagement fell apart, everything in Eden’s life changed. Heartbroken, betrayed and searching for a new beginning, Eden left behind the life she knew and moved to a centuries old cottage in the charming English village of Barton Heath, the village where her late grandmother had lived in.
In Barton Heath, Eden met Hazel Welsh, an elderly herbalist. Hazel Welsh had spent her life healing others with her herbs and teas. I especially loved the relationship that developed between Eden and Hazel. As Hazel shared her knowledge of herbs and their mysterious healing powers with Eden, Eden began to discover not only her own hidden gifts but also the person she was always meant to become.
What touched me most was watching Eden slowly find happiness and purpose after experiencing such painful losses. I really enjoyed watching Eden’s and James’s relationship and feeling for each other grow and blossom. It was enjoyable to witness the warmth of the village, the wonderful characters, and the gentle touch of magic woven throughout the book.
For me, The Herbalist was a lovely reminder that sometimes losing the life we thought we wanted can lead us to the life we were truly meant to live. The Herbalist was a charming, emotional, and uplifting story about second chances, friendship, love, loss and the importance of believing in yourself. This was the first book in this series. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
Thank you to Storm Publishing, Heather Morrison-Tapley, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this delightful book in exchange for my honest review.
Eden Martin appeared to have a wonderful life in New York City, which included the perfect job, a great apartment and a handsome and financially secure fiancé. When Eden learned that her beloved grandmother had died and her engagement fell apart, everything in Eden’s life changed. Heartbroken, betrayed and searching for a new beginning, Eden left behind the life she knew and moved to a centuries old cottage in the charming English village of Barton Heath, the village where her late grandmother had lived in.
In Barton Heath, Eden met Hazel Welsh, an elderly herbalist. Hazel Welsh had spent her life healing others with her herbs and teas. I especially loved the relationship that developed between Eden and Hazel. As Hazel shared her knowledge of herbs and their mysterious healing powers with Eden, Eden began to discover not only her own hidden gifts but also the person she was always meant to become.
What touched me most was watching Eden slowly find happiness and purpose after experiencing such painful losses. I really enjoyed watching Eden’s and James’s relationship and feeling for each other grow and blossom. It was enjoyable to witness the warmth of the village, the wonderful characters, and the gentle touch of magic woven throughout the book.
For me, The Herbalist was a lovely reminder that sometimes losing the life we thought we wanted can lead us to the life we were truly meant to live. The Herbalist was a charming, emotional, and uplifting story about second chances, friendship, love, loss and the importance of believing in yourself. This was the first book in this series. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
Thank you to Storm Publishing, Heather Morrison-Tapley, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this delightful book in exchange for my honest review.
September 23, 2026
This is a sweet romance.
Plot: Eden leaves New York and her job when her grandmother passes away in England at the same time she finds her fiance cheating on her. While visiting England, she encounters an herbalist, or a woman who services the community with herbal remedies. She ends up learning the art of being an herbalist while falling for the town veterinarian, taking in a dog, and giving a child a new life.
I imagined the herbalist part playing a bigger role here than it does, which would have added a lot. It reads more like a romance with a side of something else. It was very sweet and lovely, but totally predictable.
Thank you to NetGalley, Heather Morrison, and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to review an advanced copy.
Plot: Eden leaves New York and her job when her grandmother passes away in England at the same time she finds her fiance cheating on her. While visiting England, she encounters an herbalist, or a woman who services the community with herbal remedies. She ends up learning the art of being an herbalist while falling for the town veterinarian, taking in a dog, and giving a child a new life.
I imagined the herbalist part playing a bigger role here than it does, which would have added a lot. It reads more like a romance with a side of something else. It was very sweet and lovely, but totally predictable.
Thank you to NetGalley, Heather Morrison, and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to review an advanced copy.
October 3, 2024
A very charming story who does not wish to live in a thatched cottage left to you?? very predictable but a comfy read just what i needed when i am would up a very good easy escape. will pass it on to good friend.
June 19, 2022
Interesting premise and storyline, but in dire need of proper editing. This feels like a self published romance, with its incomplete sentences, grammatical errors, very awkward layout, lack of quotations marks when a character speaks, etc. However I liked the storyline- highly educated NYC university associate professor discovers her fiancé in bed with a young thing the same night she learns her English Grandmother has died. Edin Martin immediately flies to England to be with her mother, and decides to stay, at least temporarily. She meets Mrs. Welsh, the local healer, and runs into, literally, a handsome vet who is a widower with a four year old daughter. She adopts a dog and takes in a newly orphaned six year old boy, as she becomes Mrs. Welsh’s apprentice healer. There is a lot of angst, frustrated romance, soul searching, finding the path and knowledge to hope, healing and finally, home.
What a shame it lacks desperately needed editing.
What a shame it lacks desperately needed editing.
February 2, 2024
This is one of those frustrating books that you just wish had been picked up by a publishing house because there is so much to love about it. It has an interesting story, likeable characters that a reader can care about, descriptions of the setting that are lovely but not too cloying, and a bit of mystery. I know could have been much more with a content/copy editor and proper formatting. The writing is really strong for the most part and the author has a real knack for describing the characters just enough that a reader can see them clearly in their mind. I really wanted it to be more filled out in a few places which says something about how interesting the story is and how endearing the characters become. I hope the author keeps writing!
January 28, 2023
Easy read - my problem (reason I gave 3 stars) was Eden’s decision when Robert finally showed up and her staying in New York (to think????!!!) for weeks- author built this character as a woman who made spontaneous decisions and stuck with them, then all of a sudden she’s not sure where she wants to be? Found it to be a disappointing ending to an ok story. Sorry 🥹
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2023
Magical realism meets hallmark movie. Lighthearted, a little cheesy, pretty predictable and a bit a of magic. Easy enjoyable read.
I’ve been reading a lot of Stephen King so this was very refreshing.
I’ve been reading a lot of Stephen King so this was very refreshing.
October 4, 2026
This was a sweet and cozy romance with an engaging story and a touch of magic! I loved that I am the same age as the FMC and I loved the setting. Fans of Sarah Beth Durst and Sangu Mandanna might enjoy this one! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. It's out on October 9!
August 15, 2024
I am so conflicted. I wanted to love it, I really did, but all I feel is somehow disappointment. The herbalist promised magic, but we only got a grasp of it. The whole plot sounded so interesting and so unique, but in the end the whole book revolved around a cheesy and cringy love story? Sure, there could have been some aspects of romance, like little specks of it, but not around 90% of the book? Therefore, The herbalist became insufferable... :/
All parts revolving around the Calling and the Knowing, the flash backs and the dreams were engulfing. Why did the author even feel a need to write mainly a cliché love story? I would've much rather read about Eden's journey, perhaps discovering more secrets and history of herbalists. In the end, I know nothing about Herbalists nor healers.
Ugh, I'm just so disappointed.
All parts revolving around the Calling and the Knowing, the flash backs and the dreams were engulfing. Why did the author even feel a need to write mainly a cliché love story? I would've much rather read about Eden's journey, perhaps discovering more secrets and history of herbalists. In the end, I know nothing about Herbalists nor healers.
Ugh, I'm just so disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2022
Meh. You might want to skip this one. Good but the execution was not.
This book is insipid and predictable. I loved the idea but it's like a Hallmark Movie. If that is what you are looking forward then try it.
This book is insipid and predictable. I loved the idea but it's like a Hallmark Movie. If that is what you are looking forward then try it.
August 28, 2024
Wattpad like
October 2, 2026
There is just something about a woman whose carefully planned life completely implodes and her response is basically, *well...guess I'm moving to a tiny English village now.* Honestly? I support it.
Eden goes from having the life she thought she wanted in New York to suddenly questioning pretty much EVERYTHING, and that's where this story really worked for me. England gives her the chance to slow down, breathe, and figure out who she is when she's no longer checking boxes off the life plan she thought she was supposed to follow.
And then we add an old cottage, a village herbalist, a little bit of magic, romance, family, and the English countryside?
+ + I AM LISTENING + +
The whole book has this really warm, comforting feeling to it. Hazel and the herbalist storyline were probably what interested me the most because I loved the idea of this centuries-old knowledge being passed down and Eden slowly realizing there may be more to her connection with it than she expected. There's just enough mystical energy running underneath everything to make the story feel a little enchanted without turning it into full-on fantasy.
✦ cozy English village
✦ fresh start
✦ found purpose
✦ a sprinkle of magic
✦ romance
✦ healing + figuring your life out
Basically...give me a cottage and apparently I'm easy to please. ♡
I will say, the title had me expecting the herbalism and magical elements to take up a little MORE of the story than they ultimately did. The romance becomes a pretty significant part of Eden's journey, and there were moments where I wanted to scoot that storyline over just a tiny bit and say, *Excuse me, I was learning about magical herbs over here.*
It is also fairly predictable, but sometimes predictable is exactly what I want.
Not every book needs to emotionally body-slam me or reveal seventeen family secrets in the final twenty pages. Sometimes I want something sweet and slightly magical where I can settle in, like the characters, wander around an English village for a few hundred pages, and trust that things are probably going to work themselves out.
This very much has that *Hallmark movie, but somebody added a pinch of Practical Magic* feeling to it, and I mean that affectionately. ✧
There are some heavier pieces underneath the coziness too, especially around grief, betrayal, starting over, and realizing that getting the life you thought you wanted doesn't necessarily mean it's the life that actually fits you. I liked that Eden's journey wasn't only about finding romance. It was also about finding HERSELF again.
♡ and I'm always going to be a sucker for that ♡
Warm, comforting, a little magical, and just the right kind of easy escape.
✧ *sometimes you don't need a plot twist...you just need an English cottage and a fresh start.* ✧
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. ♡
Eden goes from having the life she thought she wanted in New York to suddenly questioning pretty much EVERYTHING, and that's where this story really worked for me. England gives her the chance to slow down, breathe, and figure out who she is when she's no longer checking boxes off the life plan she thought she was supposed to follow.
And then we add an old cottage, a village herbalist, a little bit of magic, romance, family, and the English countryside?
+ + I AM LISTENING + +
The whole book has this really warm, comforting feeling to it. Hazel and the herbalist storyline were probably what interested me the most because I loved the idea of this centuries-old knowledge being passed down and Eden slowly realizing there may be more to her connection with it than she expected. There's just enough mystical energy running underneath everything to make the story feel a little enchanted without turning it into full-on fantasy.
✦ cozy English village
✦ fresh start
✦ found purpose
✦ a sprinkle of magic
✦ romance
✦ healing + figuring your life out
Basically...give me a cottage and apparently I'm easy to please. ♡
I will say, the title had me expecting the herbalism and magical elements to take up a little MORE of the story than they ultimately did. The romance becomes a pretty significant part of Eden's journey, and there were moments where I wanted to scoot that storyline over just a tiny bit and say, *Excuse me, I was learning about magical herbs over here.*
It is also fairly predictable, but sometimes predictable is exactly what I want.
Not every book needs to emotionally body-slam me or reveal seventeen family secrets in the final twenty pages. Sometimes I want something sweet and slightly magical where I can settle in, like the characters, wander around an English village for a few hundred pages, and trust that things are probably going to work themselves out.
This very much has that *Hallmark movie, but somebody added a pinch of Practical Magic* feeling to it, and I mean that affectionately. ✧
There are some heavier pieces underneath the coziness too, especially around grief, betrayal, starting over, and realizing that getting the life you thought you wanted doesn't necessarily mean it's the life that actually fits you. I liked that Eden's journey wasn't only about finding romance. It was also about finding HERSELF again.
♡ and I'm always going to be a sucker for that ♡
Warm, comforting, a little magical, and just the right kind of easy escape.
✧ *sometimes you don't need a plot twist...you just need an English cottage and a fresh start.* ✧
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. ♡
October 7, 2026
I first read Heather Morrison’s The Herbalist back in 2022, so curling up with it again four years later felt a little like returning to an English village I’d visited once and remembered fondly. Thank you to Storm Publishing for the gifted copy of this newly published edition. Do you ever reread a book years later and realize you’re bringing a completely different version of yourself to the story?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Eden Martin thinks she has her life figured out—professor in New York City, Upper West Side apartment, successful fiancé, nice tidy future ahead of her.
And then, basically overnight, life says… absolutely not.
After losing her beloved grandmother and discovering her fiancé has betrayed her, Eden leaves New York for her grandmother’s cottage in the tiny English village of Barton Heath. And honestly, if my life imploded, disappearing into an English village with cottages, herbs, old ruins, and a little magic sounds considerably better than my current backup plan.
This is really Eden’s story of starting over and figuring out who she is when all those carefully made plans disappear. She meets Mrs. Welsh, the village herbalist, and begins learning about herbs, healing, and traditions that go back generations. Then comes the realization that Eden’s connection to all of this may run much deeper than she ever imagined.
I loved the herbalist history woven through the story, but what stayed with me most on this reread was Eden herself. There’s something about watching a woman discover that the life she thought she was supposed to want might not actually be the life that makes her happy.
And yes, there’s romance. There’s also friendship, community, grief, a sweet little boy, a dog, some unexpected turns, and just enough magic sprinkled throughout to make Barton Heath feel slightly enchanted.
Four years later, this was still such a comforting read. Maybe even more so now. Sometimes starting over isn’t about rebuilding the life you lost—it’s finally giving yourself permission to build a completely different one.
What’s a book you’ve reread years later that hit you differently the second time?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Eden Martin thinks she has her life figured out—professor in New York City, Upper West Side apartment, successful fiancé, nice tidy future ahead of her.
And then, basically overnight, life says… absolutely not.
After losing her beloved grandmother and discovering her fiancé has betrayed her, Eden leaves New York for her grandmother’s cottage in the tiny English village of Barton Heath. And honestly, if my life imploded, disappearing into an English village with cottages, herbs, old ruins, and a little magic sounds considerably better than my current backup plan.
This is really Eden’s story of starting over and figuring out who she is when all those carefully made plans disappear. She meets Mrs. Welsh, the village herbalist, and begins learning about herbs, healing, and traditions that go back generations. Then comes the realization that Eden’s connection to all of this may run much deeper than she ever imagined.
I loved the herbalist history woven through the story, but what stayed with me most on this reread was Eden herself. There’s something about watching a woman discover that the life she thought she was supposed to want might not actually be the life that makes her happy.
And yes, there’s romance. There’s also friendship, community, grief, a sweet little boy, a dog, some unexpected turns, and just enough magic sprinkled throughout to make Barton Heath feel slightly enchanted.
Four years later, this was still such a comforting read. Maybe even more so now. Sometimes starting over isn’t about rebuilding the life you lost—it’s finally giving yourself permission to build a completely different one.
What’s a book you’ve reread years later that hit you differently the second time?
October 2, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy of The Herbalist by Heather Morrison-Tapley to review. This edition is set to publish October 9.
I really liked the premise of this one. Eden seemingly has it all—a career as a professor, a fiancé, and a life in New York City—until everything falls apart and she leaves it all behind for a tiny village in England. There, she begins pursuing her dream of writing a book and meets a local healer who comes from a long line of herbalists. Add in a little magic, healing, family history, and the idea of starting over, and this sounded like it would be right up my alley.
There were definitely things I enjoyed, especially the English village setting and the focus on herbalism and finding yourself after your life takes an unexpected turn. I also liked the overall message of healing and discovering what you really want from life.
Unfortunately, the execution fell a little short for me. There was a lot going on between Eden's story, the stray dog, the foster child, her mom, her grandma, her mentor, and the romance. At times it felt like there were just too many storylines competing for attention, and I would have preferred more focus on Eden's connection to herbalism and her own journey.
The jumping timelines also didn't quite work for me and sometimes made the story feel a bit disjointed. I was also underwhelmed by the romance. I never felt especially invested in that relationship, and honestly, I think the book could have worked just as well—maybe even better—without it.
Overall, though, this was a sweet story with a lovely premise and some charming, almost magical elements. While it didn't completely come together for me, there was still plenty to appreciate. A solid 3 stars.
I really liked the premise of this one. Eden seemingly has it all—a career as a professor, a fiancé, and a life in New York City—until everything falls apart and she leaves it all behind for a tiny village in England. There, she begins pursuing her dream of writing a book and meets a local healer who comes from a long line of herbalists. Add in a little magic, healing, family history, and the idea of starting over, and this sounded like it would be right up my alley.
There were definitely things I enjoyed, especially the English village setting and the focus on herbalism and finding yourself after your life takes an unexpected turn. I also liked the overall message of healing and discovering what you really want from life.
Unfortunately, the execution fell a little short for me. There was a lot going on between Eden's story, the stray dog, the foster child, her mom, her grandma, her mentor, and the romance. At times it felt like there were just too many storylines competing for attention, and I would have preferred more focus on Eden's connection to herbalism and her own journey.
The jumping timelines also didn't quite work for me and sometimes made the story feel a bit disjointed. I was also underwhelmed by the romance. I never felt especially invested in that relationship, and honestly, I think the book could have worked just as well—maybe even better—without it.
Overall, though, this was a sweet story with a lovely premise and some charming, almost magical elements. While it didn't completely come together for me, there was still plenty to appreciate. A solid 3 stars.
October 9, 2026
Eden Martin had the perfect job, the perfect fiancé and the perfect life in New York. She receives news that her gran has passed and she must accompany her mom to the small English village of Barton Heath. She rushes to her fiancé's apartment and what she finds breaks her heart to pieces. She leaves everything behind and moved semi-permanently to England. She decides to write a book about what she knows best, herbs. She is, after all, a professor of medieval history with a specialty in the history of medicine. Here she meets Hazel Welsh who will guide her in her path as a Herbalist. While Eden learns her trade, she will also learn to love again, open her heart to new possibilities and most importantly to heal others and herself.
This was such a beautiful and touching story. I loved all the characters at Barton Heath. Eden's mom was so kind and understanding. Peter Penley-Smith was so kind and noble. James and Beatrice were so perfect for Eden. But my all time favorites were Tommy and the dog she saved, Wellie. She saved them and they saved her. Her true healing began when these two came into her life. A beautiful story with an atmospheric town that envelopes you from the beginning.
Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
This was such a beautiful and touching story. I loved all the characters at Barton Heath. Eden's mom was so kind and understanding. Peter Penley-Smith was so kind and noble. James and Beatrice were so perfect for Eden. But my all time favorites were Tommy and the dog she saved, Wellie. She saved them and they saved her. Her true healing began when these two came into her life. A beautiful story with an atmospheric town that envelopes you from the beginning.
Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
September 27, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
I really loved *The Herbalist*! The FMC was easily my favorite part of this book. She was so sweet, genuine, and incredibly easy to relate to. I loved that she’s an educator and career-driven, but at the same time, she has such a kind heart and is always trying to find the good in people and situations. She felt like the kind of character you can’t help but root for.
There was something so refreshing about her personality. She wasn’t perfect, but that’s exactly what made her feel so real. I connected with her so easily, and I genuinely enjoyed watching her navigate everything thrown her way.
The story pulled me in, and I loved the combination of romance, emotion, and the herbalist elements woven throughout. There were definitely moments that had me smiling, and others that had me completely invested in what was happening.
Overall, this was such a sweet and enjoyable read, and I’m so glad I picked it up. The FMC alone was enough to make this one memorable for me. A solid 4.5 stars! 🌿✨
I really loved *The Herbalist*! The FMC was easily my favorite part of this book. She was so sweet, genuine, and incredibly easy to relate to. I loved that she’s an educator and career-driven, but at the same time, she has such a kind heart and is always trying to find the good in people and situations. She felt like the kind of character you can’t help but root for.
There was something so refreshing about her personality. She wasn’t perfect, but that’s exactly what made her feel so real. I connected with her so easily, and I genuinely enjoyed watching her navigate everything thrown her way.
The story pulled me in, and I loved the combination of romance, emotion, and the herbalist elements woven throughout. There were definitely moments that had me smiling, and others that had me completely invested in what was happening.
Overall, this was such a sweet and enjoyable read, and I’m so glad I picked it up. The FMC alone was enough to make this one memorable for me. A solid 4.5 stars! 🌿✨
September 11, 2026
I would like to say thank you to Storm Publishing, Heather Morrison- Tapley and NetGalley for the eARC of The Herbalist.
I always love discovering new books and really enjoyed reading this story! Eden Matin had what seemed like the perfect life in New York, but in one night her world comes crashing down.
She returns to her English roots and in turn discovers something about herself she's been missing. Despite being a professor of medical history, she finds herself a little off kilter until she meets Hazel Welsh, the village herbalist who has been treating villagers for generations. When the two meet, they form an instant connection and Hazel is all willing to teach Eden the secrets she knows.
It was a quick and cute read where Eden was able to find her spark for life again after tragedy.
I always love discovering new books and really enjoyed reading this story! Eden Matin had what seemed like the perfect life in New York, but in one night her world comes crashing down.
She returns to her English roots and in turn discovers something about herself she's been missing. Despite being a professor of medical history, she finds herself a little off kilter until she meets Hazel Welsh, the village herbalist who has been treating villagers for generations. When the two meet, they form an instant connection and Hazel is all willing to teach Eden the secrets she knows.
It was a quick and cute read where Eden was able to find her spark for life again after tragedy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 339 reviews