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In The Stars #1
The Hope of You
One prestigious writing program. Two writers matched at random.
At 30, Rory Wells is about to embark on the next chapter of her life—finishing her debut novel. When the mentor she’s paired with is none other than her longtime idol, bestselling romance author Reed Ashton, Rory's dream is finally taking off.
Little does she know, Reed's given up writing and isn't interested in hand-holding anyone. But he made a promise, and his word is his bond.
When a looming deadline forces these clashing creatives to live under the same roof, an unexpected attraction threatens everything they think they know about their paths—and each other.
Maintaining distance is impossible, so they draw an invisible line between them, and all that’s allowed to cross are the words they share.
And it’s working.
Almost.
(The Hope of You is an open door, standalone novel, with a guaranteed HEA. Please be advised: this story explores sensitive subjects surrounding mental health, cumulative/integrated grief, and parental abandonment/loss of a parent—that may be triggering for some readers. It is intended for audiences 18 years and older.)
At 30, Rory Wells is about to embark on the next chapter of her life—finishing her debut novel. When the mentor she’s paired with is none other than her longtime idol, bestselling romance author Reed Ashton, Rory's dream is finally taking off.
Little does she know, Reed's given up writing and isn't interested in hand-holding anyone. But he made a promise, and his word is his bond.
When a looming deadline forces these clashing creatives to live under the same roof, an unexpected attraction threatens everything they think they know about their paths—and each other.
Maintaining distance is impossible, so they draw an invisible line between them, and all that’s allowed to cross are the words they share.
And it’s working.
Almost.
(The Hope of You is an open door, standalone novel, with a guaranteed HEA. Please be advised: this story explores sensitive subjects surrounding mental health, cumulative/integrated grief, and parental abandonment/loss of a parent—that may be triggering for some readers. It is intended for audiences 18 years and older.)
402 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 27, 2022
20 people are currently reading
558 people want to read
About the author
S.L. Astor
3 books62 followersS.L. ASTOR writes emotional, heartwarming stories, with characters who love big and don’t always play by the rules. A fan of the em-dash and iced lattes all year round, she lives (and bakes) in NorCal with her husband and their cookie enthusiast children. When she’s not writing books and making playlists, you can find Sam on the beach, reading and dreaming, and probably taking a nap.
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October 16, 2022I was very intrigued by the blurb and the cover. However, I couldn’t be invested in this story due to its extremely slow pace and the amount of issues both mcs had.
Despite how very well written it was, it just wasn’t for me… 😔
Dnf @ 13%
Despite how very well written it was, it just wasn’t for me… 😔
Dnf @ 13%
September 30, 2022
4 ⭐️for this debut novel!!
First of all I just have to say how immensely proud I am of my friend for writing her heart and doing her passion. The conversations we had over various topics, but especially finding your place in the bookverse are some of my most memorable.
Rory. First of all I love her name naturally so as it’s a nod to one of my most favorite shows—Gilmore Girls. This story had heart. I loved the tension, especially revolving around this grumpy/sunshine type romcom. The two mains were a little “enemy-ish” if that makes sense which sets up for a delicious tension and angst that I crave in stories. This story was soul healing and I loved how it revolved around writing, a mentorship and made me smile as I could see touches of Sam in these characters.
All in all this was a good, solid read with a beautiful romance that we saw blossom on the pages. I can’t wait for more from S.L. Astor.
First of all I just have to say how immensely proud I am of my friend for writing her heart and doing her passion. The conversations we had over various topics, but especially finding your place in the bookverse are some of my most memorable.
Rory. First of all I love her name naturally so as it’s a nod to one of my most favorite shows—Gilmore Girls. This story had heart. I loved the tension, especially revolving around this grumpy/sunshine type romcom. The two mains were a little “enemy-ish” if that makes sense which sets up for a delicious tension and angst that I crave in stories. This story was soul healing and I loved how it revolved around writing, a mentorship and made me smile as I could see touches of Sam in these characters.
All in all this was a good, solid read with a beautiful romance that we saw blossom on the pages. I can’t wait for more from S.L. Astor.
September 23, 2022
Welp. I knew 25% in that it was going to be a 5-star read and that I was going to be crushed. Like, this is going to be a once in a lifetime love story that cuts right between the ribs.
This is a mature contemporary romance with believable and complex characters. The writing style and imagery were beautiful and natural. The story had an enjoyable cadence with the dual POV and excellent slow-burn tension. I am extremely impressed and infatuated by this debut novel. I will be thinking about this story for a long time to come.
Read if you enjoy:
♥️Colleen Hoover-style books
💔Emotional damage
♥️Fate/serendipitous love stories
✍🏼Books about writers
🤝Forced proximity
👨🏼🏫Mentor/mentee
😠🌞Grumpy/sunshine
👩❤️👨Dual POV
The only piece that did not really resonate with me was Rory’s abandoned parent trauma (father left before she was born). There were a few aspects of her storyline that I couldn’t connect to because I felt like she was overreacting. That being said – she was highly relatable and loveable. I felt the author did a fantastic job representing people with anxiety disorders.
⚠️TW: anxiety, on-page panic attacks, parental abandonment
💫
Rory is a 30-year-old girl who quits her job to pursue her dream of publishing a romance novel. When she is accepted into an elite mentoring program, she does not expect to be matched with a best-selling (and HOT) male romance author. Rory is devastated to learn that Reed has no intention of mentoring her. Slowly, Reed begins to open up and invites Rory to stay at his lake house in rural New Hampshire.
Immediately, Rory and Reed are drawn to each other for reasons unknown to even them. The book follows them through the heartbreaking and heartwarming process of telling their stories, overcoming their fears, and confronting their pasts.
👏🏼𝙃𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙙 to readers looking for an emotional read and complex characters.
Thank you so much for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This is a mature contemporary romance with believable and complex characters. The writing style and imagery were beautiful and natural. The story had an enjoyable cadence with the dual POV and excellent slow-burn tension. I am extremely impressed and infatuated by this debut novel. I will be thinking about this story for a long time to come.
Read if you enjoy:
♥️Colleen Hoover-style books
💔Emotional damage
♥️Fate/serendipitous love stories
✍🏼Books about writers
🤝Forced proximity
👨🏼🏫Mentor/mentee
😠🌞Grumpy/sunshine
👩❤️👨Dual POV
The only piece that did not really resonate with me was Rory’s abandoned parent trauma (father left before she was born). There were a few aspects of her storyline that I couldn’t connect to because I felt like she was overreacting. That being said – she was highly relatable and loveable. I felt the author did a fantastic job representing people with anxiety disorders.
⚠️TW: anxiety, on-page panic attacks, parental abandonment
💫
Rory is a 30-year-old girl who quits her job to pursue her dream of publishing a romance novel. When she is accepted into an elite mentoring program, she does not expect to be matched with a best-selling (and HOT) male romance author. Rory is devastated to learn that Reed has no intention of mentoring her. Slowly, Reed begins to open up and invites Rory to stay at his lake house in rural New Hampshire.
Immediately, Rory and Reed are drawn to each other for reasons unknown to even them. The book follows them through the heartbreaking and heartwarming process of telling their stories, overcoming their fears, and confronting their pasts.
👏🏼𝙃𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙙 to readers looking for an emotional read and complex characters.
Thank you so much for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
January 16, 2023
Thanks for taking a chance on a debut author and book. There's a lot of life and love in these pages for Rory and Reed. Enjoy their story!
November 5, 2022
3.5 Stars
Debuting author S.L. Astor writes a moving, beautiful and satisfyingly hopeful story. The prose was vivid, evocative and well-paced. With lots of chemistry and desire and just enough steam, this slow burn romance between two authors (one seasoned and the other debuting) kept me turning pages.
There were a few coincidences that felt a bit far-fetched but certainly added some spark and intrigue to the plotting. Any reader looking for romance with a twist or two won’t be disappointed. I look forward to reading the second book in this new series.
Note: Book 2 – Synchronicity -- pub. date 2023
October 5, 2022
This is the debut book for author S.L. Astor and what a debut it is!! This book is beautiful. Sometimes you know that nothing you say can do a book justice and this is one of those times.
Rory Wells is an aspiring writer looking to finish her first novel after being chosen to take part in Eden Publishing’s mentee program. Her mentor is author Reed Ashton, a famous romance author whom she has read multiple times. Problems arise when Reed doesn’t communicate with Rory and it starts to trigger her anxiety. After awhile Reed recommends Rory coming to stay with him in Berry, so they can get to work without technology being in the way. Mentoring is now underway, writing is being accomplished, and relationships are being built. Relationships….are they, should they, and then they do.
There are so many layers to this story that I feel like I should let each of you find all the layers, all the little ways that Reed and Rory had connected before they even knew each other. This story is so beautiful. I think the author has such a poetic turn of phrase that in some instances I was full of tears before a sentence was complete. I’ve read the ending three times just because it was so moving it was worth reading more than once. This is a book that I will read again and again finding beauty in the words so lovingly put to the page.
Rory Wells is an aspiring writer looking to finish her first novel after being chosen to take part in Eden Publishing’s mentee program. Her mentor is author Reed Ashton, a famous romance author whom she has read multiple times. Problems arise when Reed doesn’t communicate with Rory and it starts to trigger her anxiety. After awhile Reed recommends Rory coming to stay with him in Berry, so they can get to work without technology being in the way. Mentoring is now underway, writing is being accomplished, and relationships are being built. Relationships….are they, should they, and then they do.
There are so many layers to this story that I feel like I should let each of you find all the layers, all the little ways that Reed and Rory had connected before they even knew each other. This story is so beautiful. I think the author has such a poetic turn of phrase that in some instances I was full of tears before a sentence was complete. I’ve read the ending three times just because it was so moving it was worth reading more than once. This is a book that I will read again and again finding beauty in the words so lovingly put to the page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2022
It’s so rare to read a book that speaks so directly to your own heart and causes such self-reflection. Not only was I entertained but I walked away knowing a little bit more about myself. ❤️
September 12, 2022
Wow. This was such a wonderful and beautifully written debut novel. From the very first page, I knew it was going to be something special. The descriptions and feelings you get from the author’s writing are almost poetic at times and it just mesmerizes you and sucks you right into the story.
This is now one of my favorite romances I have ever read. There were so many intricate details and emotions weaved into this story line. It was about so much more than romance and I really loved getting to know each of these characters and experience their stories both individually and together as they worked through things in their lives that try to hold them back. This book envelops so many emotions and feelings that it’s hard to adequately even put into words how wonderfully written it is and you must experience it for yourself. It has themes of love, past struggles, grief, discovering yourself, and how to heal the broken pieces.
I am so impressed with this novel, as I am simply blown away. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of your book, Sam! I cannot wait to see all the things coming in your future.
This is now one of my favorite romances I have ever read. There were so many intricate details and emotions weaved into this story line. It was about so much more than romance and I really loved getting to know each of these characters and experience their stories both individually and together as they worked through things in their lives that try to hold them back. This book envelops so many emotions and feelings that it’s hard to adequately even put into words how wonderfully written it is and you must experience it for yourself. It has themes of love, past struggles, grief, discovering yourself, and how to heal the broken pieces.
I am so impressed with this novel, as I am simply blown away. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of your book, Sam! I cannot wait to see all the things coming in your future.
September 27, 2022
What a gorgeous debut by SL Astor. I had been waiting for this one and can't wait for more of her books!
Reed begrudingly agrees to a mentorship program and while his head isn't in the game, he thinks he can still do this for the sake of publicity. Rory is an aspiring writer and she has been waiting her whole life for an opportunity such as this. When Reed doesn't seem interested in actually mentoring her, her anxiety takes control.
Reed knows he needs to fix this and invites Rory to his home to mentor her in person because he thinks it will be better for everyone if they are in each other's space, pushing one another, because he needs that push too, and Rory is just what he needed.
Both of these characters are battling demons and are at war with themselves daily, I loved the realness and the angst I felt while reading.
Little do they know that they were meant to meet, and after secrets are revealed, they have to decide if what they have is worth pursuing and if they can find it in their hearts for forgiveness.
Reed begrudingly agrees to a mentorship program and while his head isn't in the game, he thinks he can still do this for the sake of publicity. Rory is an aspiring writer and she has been waiting her whole life for an opportunity such as this. When Reed doesn't seem interested in actually mentoring her, her anxiety takes control.
Reed knows he needs to fix this and invites Rory to his home to mentor her in person because he thinks it will be better for everyone if they are in each other's space, pushing one another, because he needs that push too, and Rory is just what he needed.
Both of these characters are battling demons and are at war with themselves daily, I loved the realness and the angst I felt while reading.
Little do they know that they were meant to meet, and after secrets are revealed, they have to decide if what they have is worth pursuing and if they can find it in their hearts for forgiveness.
October 3, 2022
UPDATE HERE IS MY REVIEW :
THE HOPE OF YOU - S.L. ASTOR.
In THOY, we follow Rory when as she gets a chance to finish her first novel. When matched up with romance author Reed Ashton to be her mentor, she is ready for her dream to happen. Little does she know, Reed has given up on anything to do with writing. Filling his days with anything and everything else. When emails back and forth just don’t work well for them, Reed invites her to stay in his home so they can work on the novel. Even though, it is hard them both. We get to follow Rory & Reed as they navigate through their own mental health issues + trauma. Rory trying to stay afloat with her rocky relationship with her mom, the missing piece where she doesn’t know. her father. Reed where his dad passed, an accident changed his life forever and guilt follows him. This book was so beautifully written. I love the way SL portrays grief, and how it never really goes away but ways to try to calm the storm in your head. It was tragically beautiful. I laughed, I cried, and I swooned over this story. the fall vibes that this book sets are amazing!!!
I curled up on my couch with an iced latte, a pumpkin spice cupcake and a fall candle burning while I read this. a perfect, cozy afternoon! S.L. Astor did not disappoint for her first debut novel! I can not wait to read more from her. I HIGHLY recommend this read. 🫶🏻
i’m already giving this five stars bc I KNOW ITS GOING TO BE GOOD!!! go preorder this book on amazon! it’s going to be a must read. -
BLURB:
“FROM DEBUT AUTHOR S.L. ASTOR COMES A HEALING LOVE STORY OF SECOND CHANCES, MAKE-BELIEVE, AND THE BLURRED LINE BETWEEN FICTION AND REALITY.
One prestigious writing program. Two writers matched at random.
At 30, Rory Wells is about to embark on the next chapter of her life—finishing her debut novel. When the mentor she’s paired with is none other than her longtime idol, bestselling romance author Reed Ashton, Rory's dream is finally taking off.
Little does she know, Reed's given up writing and isn't interested in hand-holding anyone. But he made a promise, and his word is his bond.
When a looming deadline forces these clashing creatives to live under the same roof, an unexpected attraction threatens everything they think they know about their paths—and each other.
Maintaining distance is impossible, so they draw an invisible line between them, and all that’s allowed to cross are the words they share.
And it’s working.
Almost.
The Hope of You is a steamy, standalone novel, with a guaranteed HEA. Please be advised: this story explores sensitive subjects surrounding mental health, cumulative/integrated grief, and parental abandonment/loss of a parent—that may be triggering for some readers. It is intended for audiences 18 years and older.”
THE HOPE OF YOU - S.L. ASTOR.
In THOY, we follow Rory when as she gets a chance to finish her first novel. When matched up with romance author Reed Ashton to be her mentor, she is ready for her dream to happen. Little does she know, Reed has given up on anything to do with writing. Filling his days with anything and everything else. When emails back and forth just don’t work well for them, Reed invites her to stay in his home so they can work on the novel. Even though, it is hard them both. We get to follow Rory & Reed as they navigate through their own mental health issues + trauma. Rory trying to stay afloat with her rocky relationship with her mom, the missing piece where she doesn’t know. her father. Reed where his dad passed, an accident changed his life forever and guilt follows him. This book was so beautifully written. I love the way SL portrays grief, and how it never really goes away but ways to try to calm the storm in your head. It was tragically beautiful. I laughed, I cried, and I swooned over this story. the fall vibes that this book sets are amazing!!!
I curled up on my couch with an iced latte, a pumpkin spice cupcake and a fall candle burning while I read this. a perfect, cozy afternoon! S.L. Astor did not disappoint for her first debut novel! I can not wait to read more from her. I HIGHLY recommend this read. 🫶🏻
i’m already giving this five stars bc I KNOW ITS GOING TO BE GOOD!!! go preorder this book on amazon! it’s going to be a must read. -
BLURB:
“FROM DEBUT AUTHOR S.L. ASTOR COMES A HEALING LOVE STORY OF SECOND CHANCES, MAKE-BELIEVE, AND THE BLURRED LINE BETWEEN FICTION AND REALITY.
One prestigious writing program. Two writers matched at random.
At 30, Rory Wells is about to embark on the next chapter of her life—finishing her debut novel. When the mentor she’s paired with is none other than her longtime idol, bestselling romance author Reed Ashton, Rory's dream is finally taking off.
Little does she know, Reed's given up writing and isn't interested in hand-holding anyone. But he made a promise, and his word is his bond.
When a looming deadline forces these clashing creatives to live under the same roof, an unexpected attraction threatens everything they think they know about their paths—and each other.
Maintaining distance is impossible, so they draw an invisible line between them, and all that’s allowed to cross are the words they share.
And it’s working.
Almost.
The Hope of You is a steamy, standalone novel, with a guaranteed HEA. Please be advised: this story explores sensitive subjects surrounding mental health, cumulative/integrated grief, and parental abandonment/loss of a parent—that may be triggering for some readers. It is intended for audiences 18 years and older.”
September 17, 2022
I am blown away by this one.
Review to come❤️
Review to come❤️
September 27, 2022
I was blown away by this debut novel by SL Astor. I already want to do a re-read. This story was like a warm hug and lovely hot beverage on a magnificent fall day in New England. I enjoyed Aurora “Rory” Wells from the beginning. Reed Ashton was slightly awkward and broken in the beginning yet incredible and I grew to love him more and more as the story progressed. I thoroughly enjoyed the dual POV in some of the chapters. There are so many beautiful moments in this story. The chemistry and connection between these characters was portrayed meticulously. Slow burn is also not usually my thing but this story is so worth it. My heart is so happy after reading The Hope of You.
October 21, 2023
This is a beautifully written/grand slam out of the park debut novel by S.L. Astor. From the very first chapter I was completely engrossed. It's a love story that had me hooked through the entire story.
I am a sucker for amazing character development and this novel did such a good job of that. We follow Rory Wells and Reed Ashton as they are stuck together in a writing seminar. I really enjoyed the dual POVs and felt like the alternating chapters did a really good job of giving us both characters backstory without being too confusing. I also loved that S.L. dropped hints and nuggets throughout the book that come together at the end. This book was so beautifully written. Her description of fall in Massachusetts had me yearning to see the leaves change (I live in a basically summer all year round town).
Read if you like
- Colleen Hoover & Kim Holden novels
- Dual POVS
- Forced proximity
- Emotional damage
- Close knit family
- Mental health awareness
FINAL THOUGHTS: S.L. Astor is going to be a freakin' star in the literary world. Mark my words. I was so drawn in by her descriptive and really beautiful writing. You could tell this entire book was a labor of love right down to the perfectly curated character playlists. Do yourself a favor and pick The Hope Of You up. A debut novel that will blow you away.
I am a sucker for amazing character development and this novel did such a good job of that. We follow Rory Wells and Reed Ashton as they are stuck together in a writing seminar. I really enjoyed the dual POVs and felt like the alternating chapters did a really good job of giving us both characters backstory without being too confusing. I also loved that S.L. dropped hints and nuggets throughout the book that come together at the end. This book was so beautifully written. Her description of fall in Massachusetts had me yearning to see the leaves change (I live in a basically summer all year round town).
Read if you like
- Colleen Hoover & Kim Holden novels
- Dual POVS
- Forced proximity
- Emotional damage
- Close knit family
- Mental health awareness
FINAL THOUGHTS: S.L. Astor is going to be a freakin' star in the literary world. Mark my words. I was so drawn in by her descriptive and really beautiful writing. You could tell this entire book was a labor of love right down to the perfectly curated character playlists. Do yourself a favor and pick The Hope Of You up. A debut novel that will blow you away.
September 28, 2022
Title: The Hope of You
Author: S. L. Astor
Hero/Heroine: Reed & Rory
Tropes: Forced Proximity/Small Town/Grumpy Sunshine
TW/CW: Death of a parent (off page), parental abandonment, mention of anxiety attacks (on page), detailed descriptions of anxiety disorder, mention of PTSD
THE GOOD 😀
How, and I cannot stress this enough, is this a debut book? The wonderfully descriptive writing, the gorgeous New Hampshire setting and the relationship between these two incredible characters made this story one that should be added to TBR’s everywhere.
Reed and Rory are teamed up together when Rory is accepted to a writing programme where she will be assigned a mentor. Reed, ever so slightly grumpy and determined to cut himself off from the world, doesn’t know how to handle the responsibility of guiding Rory in a career he had only recently left behind.
Witnessing these two lost souls find peace in just being around each other was wonderful, and I found myself completely absorbed in their story. So much so that I couldn’t even watch The Great British Bake Off because this book stole my ability to concentrate on anything else.
I adored Reed and Rory’s characters, they were so complex yet all they really wanted was to be loved and accepted by those around them. Dealing with powerful feelings of loss and abandonment, the author approached these in such a sensitive way, I couldn’t help but be completely taken in by Reed and Rory. Both of their stories unfolded in a way that you kind of grew with their characters. And I loved the twists that were included, this added a whole new layer to Reed and Rory’s love story.
The Hope of You was a gorgeous, heartwarming story of love, loss and finding hope and comfort in those around you. This was a seriously beautiful debut and I for one cannot wait to read more from this author.
THE BAD ☹️
Not a thing. There’s not even anyone I want to put in the bin. Imagine that.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: An epically beautiful love story
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: S. L. Astor
Hero/Heroine: Reed & Rory
Tropes: Forced Proximity/Small Town/Grumpy Sunshine
TW/CW: Death of a parent (off page), parental abandonment, mention of anxiety attacks (on page), detailed descriptions of anxiety disorder, mention of PTSD
THE GOOD 😀
How, and I cannot stress this enough, is this a debut book? The wonderfully descriptive writing, the gorgeous New Hampshire setting and the relationship between these two incredible characters made this story one that should be added to TBR’s everywhere.
Reed and Rory are teamed up together when Rory is accepted to a writing programme where she will be assigned a mentor. Reed, ever so slightly grumpy and determined to cut himself off from the world, doesn’t know how to handle the responsibility of guiding Rory in a career he had only recently left behind.
Witnessing these two lost souls find peace in just being around each other was wonderful, and I found myself completely absorbed in their story. So much so that I couldn’t even watch The Great British Bake Off because this book stole my ability to concentrate on anything else.
I adored Reed and Rory’s characters, they were so complex yet all they really wanted was to be loved and accepted by those around them. Dealing with powerful feelings of loss and abandonment, the author approached these in such a sensitive way, I couldn’t help but be completely taken in by Reed and Rory. Both of their stories unfolded in a way that you kind of grew with their characters. And I loved the twists that were included, this added a whole new layer to Reed and Rory’s love story.
The Hope of You was a gorgeous, heartwarming story of love, loss and finding hope and comfort in those around you. This was a seriously beautiful debut and I for one cannot wait to read more from this author.
THE BAD ☹️
Not a thing. There’s not even anyone I want to put in the bin. Imagine that.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: An epically beautiful love story
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 27, 2022
The Hope of You by SL Astor
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I just have to say .... Wow. This book was amazing. The amount of detail in this book is like no other that I have ever read. And the way I connected with the characters on such a deep level was such an emotional roller coaster but in the most comforting way. There were so many layers and the author had such a poetic way of telling this story.
Rory is an aspiring author and gets accepted into a writing program with a mentor. Reed is a famous author who is chosen to be her mentor. Rory doesn’t have the most supporting family and decided this is her last shot at being an author. When Reed doesn’t do well at communicating with her, problems arise and they decide it’s best for her to come out and stay with him while working on her manuscript. As they work together and build a relationship they work through their past trauma. During this they discover they both have an attraction to each other.. but the attraction is so much deeper than expected.
This is a love story like no other. You definitely need a box of tissues when you read it. There were so many quotes that I could share but I’ll leave you with the one that stuck closest to my heart..
“ I read once that grief is love with no place to go. And I have never forgotten it because it means if you are grieving, you must have had something worth loving. Even when things don’t last forever, it means that the love was real.”
This is for you if you like:
* Dual POV
* Grumpy/sunshine
* Books about authors
* Force proximity
* Overcoming trauma
* Fated love
This is available today!! Make sure to grab a copy. This is definitely a book you want on your shelf this fall.
Thank you so much slastor for this amazing story and letting me read it early. You did a phenomenal job. I’m so proud of you for putting this out into the world. ❤️
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I just have to say .... Wow. This book was amazing. The amount of detail in this book is like no other that I have ever read. And the way I connected with the characters on such a deep level was such an emotional roller coaster but in the most comforting way. There were so many layers and the author had such a poetic way of telling this story.
Rory is an aspiring author and gets accepted into a writing program with a mentor. Reed is a famous author who is chosen to be her mentor. Rory doesn’t have the most supporting family and decided this is her last shot at being an author. When Reed doesn’t do well at communicating with her, problems arise and they decide it’s best for her to come out and stay with him while working on her manuscript. As they work together and build a relationship they work through their past trauma. During this they discover they both have an attraction to each other.. but the attraction is so much deeper than expected.
This is a love story like no other. You definitely need a box of tissues when you read it. There were so many quotes that I could share but I’ll leave you with the one that stuck closest to my heart..
“ I read once that grief is love with no place to go. And I have never forgotten it because it means if you are grieving, you must have had something worth loving. Even when things don’t last forever, it means that the love was real.”
This is for you if you like:
* Dual POV
* Grumpy/sunshine
* Books about authors
* Force proximity
* Overcoming trauma
* Fated love
This is available today!! Make sure to grab a copy. This is definitely a book you want on your shelf this fall.
Thank you so much slastor for this amazing story and letting me read it early. You did a phenomenal job. I’m so proud of you for putting this out into the world. ❤️
September 19, 2022
The Hope of You is an examination of love and loss, hope and healing, and the constancy of the stars that connect us.
I can’t put into words how much this story means to me - as a writer, a dreamer…a baseball lover.
This book moved me to tears on more than one occasion as S.L. gripped my heart with her words and this story. It’s so much more than a romance, and don’t get me wrong there romance is gorgeous, but it’s the stories woven in with the romance that leave me speechless.
Rory and Reed are assigned to each other for a writing mentorship program, they connect virtually, but once they meet face to face sparks are fanned into flame. Rory is an aspiring writer and Reed is a bestseller who hasn’t written in years. Opposites in every way. But connected in ways they never could have imagined.
The parallels between the romance Rory is writing and the one she is living are striking and add another layer of depth to the story and to Reed and Rory themselves.
Believe me, you do not want to miss The Hope of You, coming out on 9/27. Thank you, @sl.astor.writes for the E-ARC.
⭐️5/5
🔥3/5 (open door)
TW/CW: Anxiety; death of parent (off page); fatal car accident (off page, discussed); grief.
I can’t put into words how much this story means to me - as a writer, a dreamer…a baseball lover.
This book moved me to tears on more than one occasion as S.L. gripped my heart with her words and this story. It’s so much more than a romance, and don’t get me wrong there romance is gorgeous, but it’s the stories woven in with the romance that leave me speechless.
Rory and Reed are assigned to each other for a writing mentorship program, they connect virtually, but once they meet face to face sparks are fanned into flame. Rory is an aspiring writer and Reed is a bestseller who hasn’t written in years. Opposites in every way. But connected in ways they never could have imagined.
The parallels between the romance Rory is writing and the one she is living are striking and add another layer of depth to the story and to Reed and Rory themselves.
Believe me, you do not want to miss The Hope of You, coming out on 9/27. Thank you, @sl.astor.writes for the E-ARC.
⭐️5/5
🔥3/5 (open door)
TW/CW: Anxiety; death of parent (off page); fatal car accident (off page, discussed); grief.
September 11, 2022
*ARC Review* Did you ever have your grandmother knit you a sweater? You know, the kind you didn’t think you needed or wanted until it was all said and done? It wrapped you up in that comforting way you crave and love. Well, imagine that’s what this book is like. As it envelops your body you can feel how it was woven intricately, patiently, beautifully and lovingly with each pull, loop and stitch of the yarn. Seeping that warmth into your body, heart and soul. Rory and Reed are two souls that the universe has decided to collide together on a course of self-discovery, hope, love, strength, and forgiveness. There is nothing easy or simple about their journey. Both as individuals and as a team. There are struggles, grief, regret and pain. But there is also absolution, healing and rebirth. These two characters will leave you wondering about love, fate, and how our lives can be connected to others in ways we don't even realize. So grab yourself that cozy handmade sweater, some coffee or tea, maybe a blueberry scone or two 😉, and join these two on their journey. At the end of it all it's like a big breath of fresh, crisp fall air. It's the best.You'll love it.
September 15, 2022
*I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for a review*
First, I wanted to say congrats to the author on their debut novel! It was so exciting to read this and I am pumped to read book two!
Synopsis: Rory is accepted into a writing program to work on her debut novel where she is paired with romance author Reed Ashton as her program mentor… I’m going to let the synopsis end there because you might think you know what happens next but the truth is so much more fun to discover!
If you are looking for a cozy fall read where you will instantly love the characters this is the perfect book for you. This novel explores the ideas of fate, love, and overcoming trauma. Plus, we love a man who goes to therapy!
So, pick up a blueberry scone, sit down in a warm sweater, and let yourself enjoy all the feels this book will give you. I promise you, even if you think you know what happens, this one will surprise you.
First, I wanted to say congrats to the author on their debut novel! It was so exciting to read this and I am pumped to read book two!
Synopsis: Rory is accepted into a writing program to work on her debut novel where she is paired with romance author Reed Ashton as her program mentor… I’m going to let the synopsis end there because you might think you know what happens next but the truth is so much more fun to discover!
If you are looking for a cozy fall read where you will instantly love the characters this is the perfect book for you. This novel explores the ideas of fate, love, and overcoming trauma. Plus, we love a man who goes to therapy!
So, pick up a blueberry scone, sit down in a warm sweater, and let yourself enjoy all the feels this book will give you. I promise you, even if you think you know what happens, this one will surprise you.
September 17, 2022
Wow. Just…wow!
Books are truly an artistic expression. But this book—it’s a masterpiece. Each sentence is intricately woven into the fabric of a story so warm and inviting, you can’t help but wrap yourself in it. And I think that’s what I loved the most.
This story had everything I crave in a book: romance, fulfilling character arcs, and people you really root for. There were twists and turns I didn’t see coming, but I was totally there for the ride and enjoyed every minute.
What a wonderfully written, beautifully told debut from an author I cannot wait to read more from.
Books are truly an artistic expression. But this book—it’s a masterpiece. Each sentence is intricately woven into the fabric of a story so warm and inviting, you can’t help but wrap yourself in it. And I think that’s what I loved the most.
This story had everything I crave in a book: romance, fulfilling character arcs, and people you really root for. There were twists and turns I didn’t see coming, but I was totally there for the ride and enjoyed every minute.
What a wonderfully written, beautifully told debut from an author I cannot wait to read more from.
September 23, 2022
The Hope of You. How wonderful it is to come to the end of a story, close the cover, look at the title and say “Yes”. That is the story right there.
Rory and Reed’s love story is full of just that. Hope. It floats on the edges and makes us believe that one day love really will prevail and give these characters what they both need — what they both deserve.
S.L. Astor has given us beautiful characters, full of emotion and flaws, that have us rooting for them from page one, in a setting that makes you reach for a suggly blanket and warm cup of tea as we sink into their cozy world. Alongside their love story, we watch as they grow into themselves, learning to take up their own space in the world — flaws and all.
Get ready to give in to your cravings for blueberry scones and margaritas, and devour this romance.
Rory and Reed’s love story is full of just that. Hope. It floats on the edges and makes us believe that one day love really will prevail and give these characters what they both need — what they both deserve.
S.L. Astor has given us beautiful characters, full of emotion and flaws, that have us rooting for them from page one, in a setting that makes you reach for a suggly blanket and warm cup of tea as we sink into their cozy world. Alongside their love story, we watch as they grow into themselves, learning to take up their own space in the world — flaws and all.
Get ready to give in to your cravings for blueberry scones and margaritas, and devour this romance.
September 26, 2022
This book just hits right!
This book reads like contemporary fiction (it has strong Lily King vibes!) with all the best parts of romance combined. It’s cozy and hopeful, and there is so much yearning and sexual tension in seemingly innocuous scenes and dialogue created by a very talented writer who knows how to use language. Just a little steam, but it is oh-so-satisfying to the reader. This book hit exactly right and if you love slow-burn, you will LOVE this. This book was so so satisfying and hopeful and I cannot wait to read what Astor writes next!
This book reads like contemporary fiction (it has strong Lily King vibes!) with all the best parts of romance combined. It’s cozy and hopeful, and there is so much yearning and sexual tension in seemingly innocuous scenes and dialogue created by a very talented writer who knows how to use language. Just a little steam, but it is oh-so-satisfying to the reader. This book hit exactly right and if you love slow-burn, you will LOVE this. This book was so so satisfying and hopeful and I cannot wait to read what Astor writes next!
February 6, 2023
It just didn't "grab" me. 😔 I really struggled with trying to stay focused and reading this one.
February 3, 2023
This is my favorite book now. I didn't know I needed it. It came in my Bookworm Box and the minute I laid eyes on it, I knew there was something about it. Two chapters in I was praising it like I've never praised a books before and by midway through I was suggesting it to a room full of classmates. By the end I was emotional in all the best ways. This book feels very raw and real to me, I think you can feel the emotion that went into it. The characters are so well developed and their connections *chef's kiss*. I had. Favorite book before this, but somehow this book came in and has uprooted my entire life. Maybe it's because I want to be a writer, maybe it's because these are adult characters around my age that are still figuring out their lives and how their trauma has been such a huge part of them. I just fucking love it. More than any book I've loved before. I don't care what anyone says. I will re read over and over again. For the coziness, and for the love. And to forever hold the beautiful words about anxiety and loss. ❤️
April 11, 2023
Sam’s debut novel is real, raw and simply beautiful. The way it’s written, the connection to the characters and their arcs, the storyline of fate, and the hope and healing within its words are all worth being apart of. I highly recommend anyone who believes in love and HEA with enriching poetic story telling to go and read this book!!
July 13, 2023
This is such an amazing debut novel from S.L. Astor! Her writing style and characters are really something… well-developed and so unique. I can’t wait to read more from her!
The Hope of You tells the story of Rory, an aspiring author, and Reed, a successful romance author and Rory’s new mentor. Their mentor/mentee relationship doesn’t start out exactly how either of them expected, but Rory is determined to make it work. Reed invites Rory to his family home on a lake in the hopes that working together in-person will make it easier to meet their deadlines. Working so closely brings them together, both professionally and personally, and starts to blur the lines of their relationship.
This book went so much deeper than just a love story! The plot and characters are so layered. There’s some really great mental health representation (TW - panic attacks, anxiety, grief, loss), which I really appreciated. I loved the way the author approached these issues with grace and care. I absolutely loved Rory and Reed. Sometimes I found their dialogue to be a bit wordy and maybe a smidge too emotionally intelligent to be realistic, but I enjoyed them as characters just the same! The role fate played in the story was beautiful. I literally gasped out loud when a couple of the revelations towards the end were revealed! Overall, I thought the book was well-paced and very character driven. Their interactions kept me turning the pages! I really, really enjoyed it.
Read this book if you like :
▪️Books about authors
▪️Small town romance
▪️Close proximity
▪️Dual POV
▪️Mental health rep
The Hope of You tells the story of Rory, an aspiring author, and Reed, a successful romance author and Rory’s new mentor. Their mentor/mentee relationship doesn’t start out exactly how either of them expected, but Rory is determined to make it work. Reed invites Rory to his family home on a lake in the hopes that working together in-person will make it easier to meet their deadlines. Working so closely brings them together, both professionally and personally, and starts to blur the lines of their relationship.
This book went so much deeper than just a love story! The plot and characters are so layered. There’s some really great mental health representation (TW - panic attacks, anxiety, grief, loss), which I really appreciated. I loved the way the author approached these issues with grace and care. I absolutely loved Rory and Reed. Sometimes I found their dialogue to be a bit wordy and maybe a smidge too emotionally intelligent to be realistic, but I enjoyed them as characters just the same! The role fate played in the story was beautiful. I literally gasped out loud when a couple of the revelations towards the end were revealed! Overall, I thought the book was well-paced and very character driven. Their interactions kept me turning the pages! I really, really enjoyed it.
Read this book if you like :
▪️Books about authors
▪️Small town romance
▪️Close proximity
▪️Dual POV
▪️Mental health rep
October 24, 2023
This was a truly enjoyable read, and I'm so glad I finally gave it a chance! I loved the slow burn build up between Rory and Reed, as well as the way they were both able to help each other heal from their past issues. They both put in the hard work to get where they needed to be, and it was nice to see that effort rewarded in the end.
Their dynamic was so endearing! They played off each other so well, and it made me smile so many times watching their back and forth. The writing was lovely and kept me invested from start to finish. Personally, I could have done with fewer descriptions, but most people enjoy that.
The only thing that really derailed me throughout the whole book was Rory's reaction to the major conflict. I go into more detail about why it irked me in the spoiler section.
Overall, this was a fantastic time, and I can't wait to read more from this author!
Their dynamic was so endearing! They played off each other so well, and it made me smile so many times watching their back and forth. The writing was lovely and kept me invested from start to finish. Personally, I could have done with fewer descriptions, but most people enjoy that.
The only thing that really derailed me throughout the whole book was Rory's reaction to the major conflict. I go into more detail about why it irked me in the spoiler section.
Overall, this was a fantastic time, and I can't wait to read more from this author!
October 28, 2023
You know the book you had on your TBR since its release, and you have no clue why you hadn't read it, because when you finally do pick it up, you're KICKING yourself for not reading it sooner?
That's this book for me.
Rory is a contest winner who gets to be mentored as she writes her book and gets ready to query. When she finds out she'll be mentored by one of her favorite authors who just so happens to be devastatingly attractive, she's curious, nervous...all the things. Reed Ashton, for his part, is mentoring as a favor to a friend, and doesn't expect to enjoy the process, the writing, or his captivating mentee.
Y'all. I don't underline. No highlighters. Sticky tabs are rare. My books' pages are pristine.
Not this book. It has notes, underlines...I even started writing down the page numbers where I underlined.
It's relatable in small ways. Yes, I have had New York pizza at 2am. Nothing else should ever be eaten at that hour. Yes, I pine for the days when Pluto was a planet. Family dynamics, complicated as they are, shape so much of who you are
It's also relatable in writerly ways: Trying to focus on the story you're writing, but you hit a boulder of a block. And one suggestion from someone you respect gets implemented and it makes all the difference.
People who believe in your writing more than you do. And love that comes at the most unexpected time.
Oh, and is there anything more satisfying than finding the line where a book's title came from? Mmm maybe it's when you find the sentence with the sequel 's title 😍
It's a love story for the ages, and if you like a story where the setting is legit its own character, I highly recommend this one.
That's this book for me.
Rory is a contest winner who gets to be mentored as she writes her book and gets ready to query. When she finds out she'll be mentored by one of her favorite authors who just so happens to be devastatingly attractive, she's curious, nervous...all the things. Reed Ashton, for his part, is mentoring as a favor to a friend, and doesn't expect to enjoy the process, the writing, or his captivating mentee.
Y'all. I don't underline. No highlighters. Sticky tabs are rare. My books' pages are pristine.
Not this book. It has notes, underlines...I even started writing down the page numbers where I underlined.
It's relatable in small ways. Yes, I have had New York pizza at 2am. Nothing else should ever be eaten at that hour. Yes, I pine for the days when Pluto was a planet. Family dynamics, complicated as they are, shape so much of who you are
It's also relatable in writerly ways: Trying to focus on the story you're writing, but you hit a boulder of a block. And one suggestion from someone you respect gets implemented and it makes all the difference.
People who believe in your writing more than you do. And love that comes at the most unexpected time.
Oh, and is there anything more satisfying than finding the line where a book's title came from? Mmm maybe it's when you find the sentence with the sequel 's title 😍
It's a love story for the ages, and if you like a story where the setting is legit its own character, I highly recommend this one.
February 24, 2023
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH! It is going on my shelf as a for-sure reread, and I will forever list this as one of my favorite books of all time! It was so beautiful--the writing, the characters, their story. I want to curl up in this book for the comfort and the sweet emotion.
I really appreciated Astor's handling of anxiety in this book. It felt less like a representation and more of an invitation into the experience of it on a level that felt personal and hopeful. It never once came across as annoying and neither did Rory in her self-deprecation and honesty. Showing her through Reed's eyes was an amazing way to give us a glimpse of what someone else thinks of us and who we are while we spiral and think so low of ourselves. It really touched my heart.
The way the slow-burn and relationship built was so natural and stirring. It wasn't the angst-filled, stressful kind of JUST GET TOGETHER kind. It was the amazing anticipation that builds with such a satisfying meet that stirs my heart and my gut.
So well done. The writing just gripped me. I highlighted so many lines and laughed in many parts. I will not forget this book ever.
I really appreciated Astor's handling of anxiety in this book. It felt less like a representation and more of an invitation into the experience of it on a level that felt personal and hopeful. It never once came across as annoying and neither did Rory in her self-deprecation and honesty. Showing her through Reed's eyes was an amazing way to give us a glimpse of what someone else thinks of us and who we are while we spiral and think so low of ourselves. It really touched my heart.
The way the slow-burn and relationship built was so natural and stirring. It wasn't the angst-filled, stressful kind of JUST GET TOGETHER kind. It was the amazing anticipation that builds with such a satisfying meet that stirs my heart and my gut.
So well done. The writing just gripped me. I highlighted so many lines and laughed in many parts. I will not forget this book ever.
July 28, 2023
At 30, Rory Wells is about to embark on the next chapter of her life—finishing her debut novel. When the mentor she’s paired with is none other than her longtime idol, bestselling romance author Reed Ashton, Rory's dream is finally taking off. Little does she know, Reed's given up writing and isn't interested in hand-holding anyone.
When I think of describing this book, the words that come to my mind are poetic, lyrical, and profound.
It's no brainer that I love books about books or books set in the publishing world & this was one such surprise. This story is about finding happiness, peace & comfort not only with your better half but also with yourself.
Reed & Rory's relationship was nothing but fate. Several missed chances later, they found each other in the right place & at the right time. I loved everything about those two; separately & as a whole.
But I must say, the show stealer for me was not one but those 2 missed chances. It was absolutely delightful & wholesome to see these two find their way back to each other.
When I think of describing this book, the words that come to my mind are poetic, lyrical, and profound.
It's no brainer that I love books about books or books set in the publishing world & this was one such surprise. This story is about finding happiness, peace & comfort not only with your better half but also with yourself.
Reed & Rory's relationship was nothing but fate. Several missed chances later, they found each other in the right place & at the right time. I loved everything about those two; separately & as a whole.
But I must say, the show stealer for me was not one but those 2 missed chances. It was absolutely delightful & wholesome to see these two find their way back to each other.
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