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Honey in the Marrow
An enemies-to-friends-to-lovers lesbian romance about finding heart, hope, and second chances you never thought you’d have.
Stella Carter is a former criminal prosecutor and new widow facing down middle age alone in Los Angeles. Without being a prestigious lawyer and someone’s wife, she’s not sure who she is anymore or where her life is headed.
When she invites her niece to move in with her, Stella accidentally reconnects with her former colleague, LAPD Captain Elizabeth Murphy. The woman is beautiful but cold; someone she was always at odds with on the job.
Surprisingly, Stella finds herself leaning on her niece and Elizabeth more and more to navigate her loss. But as time goes on, Stella can’t keep seeing Elizabeth and pretending she’s not attracted to her. Besides, there’s absolutely no way Elizabeth feels the same way. Is there?
Stella Carter is a former criminal prosecutor and new widow facing down middle age alone in Los Angeles. Without being a prestigious lawyer and someone’s wife, she’s not sure who she is anymore or where her life is headed.
When she invites her niece to move in with her, Stella accidentally reconnects with her former colleague, LAPD Captain Elizabeth Murphy. The woman is beautiful but cold; someone she was always at odds with on the job.
Surprisingly, Stella finds herself leaning on her niece and Elizabeth more and more to navigate her loss. But as time goes on, Stella can’t keep seeing Elizabeth and pretending she’s not attracted to her. Besides, there’s absolutely no way Elizabeth feels the same way. Is there?
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 12, 2022
91 people are currently reading
1291 people want to read
About the author
Emily Waters
2 books153 followersEmily Waters is a fiction writer. Her debut novel, Honey in the Marrow, was released by Ylva Publishing in October 2022.
Besides writing, Emily is a full time librarian. She holds a BA in English Literature from Chapman University and earned a Masters of Library Science at Indiana University.
Emily lives in the San Francisco Bay Area and likes coffee, puttering around her backyard garden, staying home, and binge watching old TV shows starring strong-willed female leads with pretty hair.
You can find Emily on social media at @emilyraywaters or contact her by email at emilyraywaters@gmail.com.
Besides writing, Emily is a full time librarian. She holds a BA in English Literature from Chapman University and earned a Masters of Library Science at Indiana University.
Emily lives in the San Francisco Bay Area and likes coffee, puttering around her backyard garden, staying home, and binge watching old TV shows starring strong-willed female leads with pretty hair.
You can find Emily on social media at @emilyraywaters or contact her by email at emilyraywaters@gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews
February 22, 2024
**'If writing is a hobby for you, then please don't take yourself too seriously. Take your ideas, research and skill seriously BUT don't get frustrated when you struggle at times to tell a particular story..'
Delightful read!
A heartwarming and mature storyline -- also well written, well-paced and very good chemistry between the two leading ladies (Stella & Elizabeth) --- oh and there was really honey in the marrow.
A highly recommended book!
Delightful read!
A heartwarming and mature storyline -- also well written, well-paced and very good chemistry between the two leading ladies (Stella & Elizabeth) --- oh and there was really honey in the marrow.
A highly recommended book!
July 7, 2024
Grief can be a strong motivation to either make big changes in your life or keep you standing alone, in one hollow and heavy continuous moment of time. Stella Carter’s grief at losing her husband to a random act of violence has left her standing still. She has detached herself from her life until her niece Addie moves in and slowly helps Stella venture back out into the world, one small step at a time. As Addie starts Stella back into motion she reunites her with an ex coworker who Stella found aggravating to work alongside. For some unknown reason all Elizabeth Murphy wants to do is to be there for Stella.
As a debut novel, Honey in the Marrow is a masterfully written story about grief, compassion, hope, understanding and self discovery. There are elements of enemies to lovers and Ice Queen tropes however I find these are just shallow parts of a much deeper story. The metamorphosis of Stella through her grief spoke directly to me. Ms Waters writes you into a front row seat for this emotionally lush story.
I received an advance review copy from Ylva Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As a debut novel, Honey in the Marrow is a masterfully written story about grief, compassion, hope, understanding and self discovery. There are elements of enemies to lovers and Ice Queen tropes however I find these are just shallow parts of a much deeper story. The metamorphosis of Stella through her grief spoke directly to me. Ms Waters writes you into a front row seat for this emotionally lush story.
I received an advance review copy from Ylva Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 7, 2022
From grief to love.
Fantastic read for something I thought was going to be dull. This book is about a woman going through grief and the loss was 6 months recent and raw so the grief was pretty intense at the start. But Stella had a lot of support from her niece, Addie and a former work colleague, Elizabeth, as well as help from a therapist, so she gradually gets better.
I really love Addie and Elizabeth, both of whom made a difference to the story. Addie was a ray of sunshine and Elizabeth was caring. And even though we never got Elizabeth's viewpoint about the romance, it was clear that she was quite fond of Stella and at the same time, also respectful and patient towards her grief. I also love the story flow and thought it was well executed. Even though I'm no grief expert, the healing process felt gradual and the transition of her feelings to romance with Elizabeth felt seamless.
Stella and Elizabeth are both older women - Stella in her early 50s and Elizabeth in her early 60s - exploring their sexuality and while I rarely sought out books about older couples (age-gap books excluded), I've learnt to appreciate them a lot, especially this one where the romantic scenes were also pretty well-written.
I was hooked!
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Fantastic read for something I thought was going to be dull. This book is about a woman going through grief and the loss was 6 months recent and raw so the grief was pretty intense at the start. But Stella had a lot of support from her niece, Addie and a former work colleague, Elizabeth, as well as help from a therapist, so she gradually gets better.
I really love Addie and Elizabeth, both of whom made a difference to the story. Addie was a ray of sunshine and Elizabeth was caring. And even though we never got Elizabeth's viewpoint about the romance, it was clear that she was quite fond of Stella and at the same time, also respectful and patient towards her grief. I also love the story flow and thought it was well executed. Even though I'm no grief expert, the healing process felt gradual and the transition of her feelings to romance with Elizabeth felt seamless.
Stella and Elizabeth are both older women - Stella in her early 50s and Elizabeth in her early 60s - exploring their sexuality and while I rarely sought out books about older couples (age-gap books excluded), I've learnt to appreciate them a lot, especially this one where the romantic scenes were also pretty well-written.
I was hooked!
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2023
The updated audiobook review follows after the original:
4.5 stars
Folks, I have a serious crush on a book character and her name is Elizabeth Murphy. An LAPD Police Captain in her 60s, she dresses to the nines and is hot as hell. How often do we get these in sapphic fiction?? Rarely. She worked under former prosecutor Stella Carter's husband before he died and the women interacted on a professional level for years. While they had mutual respect for one another, their relationship could never be considered more than impersonal. But when Stella loses her husband and she finds herself lost and alone in her 50s, her young adult niece Addie moves to LA to live with her and she and Elizabeth help put her back together.
I really enjoyed this very slow burn romance! While Stella is crippled by loss and depression and much of this book is digging herself out of the black hole she is in, there is hope as she navigates those waters.
Neither Elizabeth or Stella have ever been involved with a woman before - they were both married to men at one time and Murphy has adult children. But Stella is surprised to see a different side to Elizabeth, who once seemed so icy and aloof. She is kind, warm, caring and has the patience of a saint. And she's so damn beautiful. Surely her awareness of the woman in a whole different way couldn't be reciprocated, could it? I'll just say - oh my, is there much to look forward to with these two!
Addie is also a wonderful character mature beyond her years who supports, loves and gently gives Stella the push she needs to start again. My only wish for this book is that it didn't end so abruptly. I needed an epilogue, at least. But I'm willing to take a short story. Emily and Ylva, are you listening? Please? I wasn't ready to let these characters go.
This is a strong debut and I look forward to more from this new author!
UPDATE after listening to the audiobook version:
My feelings are the same about the story itself, but I felt the read was more impactful than the listen. I like narrator Anastasia Watley a lot, but she excels at erotica and erotic romance and less so when it comes to the deep emotional stuff. She barely differentiated between voices for the female characters and I just didn't feel Stella's depression in the way that I did when I read the book. I will say, however, that the sex between them nearing the end of the story was so hot I nearly slid off my chair. Anastasia got that tone that just oozes sex appeal. But in general I would probably recommend the read over the audio version.
4 stars for the audiobook.
4.5 stars
Folks, I have a serious crush on a book character and her name is Elizabeth Murphy. An LAPD Police Captain in her 60s, she dresses to the nines and is hot as hell. How often do we get these in sapphic fiction?? Rarely. She worked under former prosecutor Stella Carter's husband before he died and the women interacted on a professional level for years. While they had mutual respect for one another, their relationship could never be considered more than impersonal. But when Stella loses her husband and she finds herself lost and alone in her 50s, her young adult niece Addie moves to LA to live with her and she and Elizabeth help put her back together.
I really enjoyed this very slow burn romance! While Stella is crippled by loss and depression and much of this book is digging herself out of the black hole she is in, there is hope as she navigates those waters.
Neither Elizabeth or Stella have ever been involved with a woman before - they were both married to men at one time and Murphy has adult children. But Stella is surprised to see a different side to Elizabeth, who once seemed so icy and aloof. She is kind, warm, caring and has the patience of a saint. And she's so damn beautiful. Surely her awareness of the woman in a whole different way couldn't be reciprocated, could it? I'll just say - oh my, is there much to look forward to with these two!
Addie is also a wonderful character mature beyond her years who supports, loves and gently gives Stella the push she needs to start again. My only wish for this book is that it didn't end so abruptly. I needed an epilogue, at least. But I'm willing to take a short story. Emily and Ylva, are you listening? Please? I wasn't ready to let these characters go.
This is a strong debut and I look forward to more from this new author!
UPDATE after listening to the audiobook version:
My feelings are the same about the story itself, but I felt the read was more impactful than the listen. I like narrator Anastasia Watley a lot, but she excels at erotica and erotic romance and less so when it comes to the deep emotional stuff. She barely differentiated between voices for the female characters and I just didn't feel Stella's depression in the way that I did when I read the book. I will say, however, that the sex between them nearing the end of the story was so hot I nearly slid off my chair. Anastasia got that tone that just oozes sex appeal. But in general I would probably recommend the read over the audio version.
4 stars for the audiobook.
November 10, 2023
Edit: November 10th, 2023, audiobook review
It’s the third time I review this story—as fanfiction here, as Emily Waters’ debut novel below—and I have loved every one.
Honey in the Marrow is one of the best stories I’ve read about grief and it also has one of my favourite almost-first kiss and one of my favourite first sex scene. Stella’s and Elizabeth’s journey towards themselves and each other is beautiful and Anastasia Watley more than does all the emotions justice.
The voices aren’t always distinct enough for me, except for Elizabeth’s, which is absolutely swoon-worthy, and I lost focus at times but the writing made it easy enough to follow and/or catch up. There is, however, a sensuality to the narration that serves this story perfectly. I mentioned in my review of the book that it was both mellow and deep, and Anastasia Watley’s voice is that as well, as is the pace, thick and smooth, warm, strong yet soft.
The author announced recently that her next book will be published on January 17th 2024 and I’m very excited to find out where she takes us next.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read all my reviews on my blog (and please buy from the affiliation links!): Jude in the Stars
------------------------------------------------
As I’ve explained before, I’ve never been a big fanfiction reader but it so happens that the fanfic this book is based on is one of a handful I reviewed. I was both excited and a tad wary when I saw Ylva had picked it up. Excited for the author whose story will get more exposure, wary that the editing process would soften it, tone it down. I’m happy to report that the work that was done on this text tightens it but in no way takes away anything that made it so powerful in its original form.
At the beginning of Honey in the Marrow, Stella Carter is about to welcome her new roommate, her twenty-three years old niece Addie, into the house she moved into a few months ago, after her husband was murdered in the building where he worked as deputy chief of the LAPD. Soon, the younger woman’s presence breathes life and chaos into Stella’s limbo-like existence. Consumed by grief, Stella ignores most of it, until Addie brings Captain Elizabeth Murphy, a woman Stella has always felt antagonized by, back into her life.
You don’t need to have watched the shows this story is derived from to enjoy it. The characters stand on their own feet and all that could distract from the main storylines has been cleverly trimmed. It’s still as beautiful, however, as moving, as hot as well, and that almost-first kiss I loved when I first read it is still there, as well as everything that made me want to review at the time.
Honey in the Marrow isn’t an easy story to read and yet I read it just as quickly the second time around. What makes it hard isn’t so much the sadness as the nothingness Stella feels, grieving her husband but also her job as an assistant district attorney and, I think above all, what could have been. In Elizabeth and with help from Addie, she gets another chance at the latter. As I wrote in my review of the fanfic, “what’s better than people who get a second – or third, or fourth – chance at life and make the most of it? When you think things are over and you’ve missed your chance at happiness but realise you didn’t?”.
There’s something at once mellow and deep in this story. It’s about grief and depression, about finding your person – and yourself – later in life, about having the strength and courage to allow the unknown in. About embracing the ambivalence of one’s feelings. About letting go of the past and giving the future a chance, whether you’re twenty-three or fifty-one or in your sixties.
Emily Waters writes all this with gentleness and sensitivity, never passing judgement on characters she obviously loves and respects, turning melancholy into hopefulness and a world of possibilities.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read all my reviews on my blog (and please buy from the affiliation links!): Jude in the Stars
It’s the third time I review this story—as fanfiction here, as Emily Waters’ debut novel below—and I have loved every one.
Honey in the Marrow is one of the best stories I’ve read about grief and it also has one of my favourite almost-first kiss and one of my favourite first sex scene. Stella’s and Elizabeth’s journey towards themselves and each other is beautiful and Anastasia Watley more than does all the emotions justice.
The voices aren’t always distinct enough for me, except for Elizabeth’s, which is absolutely swoon-worthy, and I lost focus at times but the writing made it easy enough to follow and/or catch up. There is, however, a sensuality to the narration that serves this story perfectly. I mentioned in my review of the book that it was both mellow and deep, and Anastasia Watley’s voice is that as well, as is the pace, thick and smooth, warm, strong yet soft.
The author announced recently that her next book will be published on January 17th 2024 and I’m very excited to find out where she takes us next.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read all my reviews on my blog (and please buy from the affiliation links!): Jude in the Stars
------------------------------------------------
As I’ve explained before, I’ve never been a big fanfiction reader but it so happens that the fanfic this book is based on is one of a handful I reviewed. I was both excited and a tad wary when I saw Ylva had picked it up. Excited for the author whose story will get more exposure, wary that the editing process would soften it, tone it down. I’m happy to report that the work that was done on this text tightens it but in no way takes away anything that made it so powerful in its original form.
At the beginning of Honey in the Marrow, Stella Carter is about to welcome her new roommate, her twenty-three years old niece Addie, into the house she moved into a few months ago, after her husband was murdered in the building where he worked as deputy chief of the LAPD. Soon, the younger woman’s presence breathes life and chaos into Stella’s limbo-like existence. Consumed by grief, Stella ignores most of it, until Addie brings Captain Elizabeth Murphy, a woman Stella has always felt antagonized by, back into her life.
You don’t need to have watched the shows this story is derived from to enjoy it. The characters stand on their own feet and all that could distract from the main storylines has been cleverly trimmed. It’s still as beautiful, however, as moving, as hot as well, and that almost-first kiss I loved when I first read it is still there, as well as everything that made me want to review at the time.
Honey in the Marrow isn’t an easy story to read and yet I read it just as quickly the second time around. What makes it hard isn’t so much the sadness as the nothingness Stella feels, grieving her husband but also her job as an assistant district attorney and, I think above all, what could have been. In Elizabeth and with help from Addie, she gets another chance at the latter. As I wrote in my review of the fanfic, “what’s better than people who get a second – or third, or fourth – chance at life and make the most of it? When you think things are over and you’ve missed your chance at happiness but realise you didn’t?”.
There’s something at once mellow and deep in this story. It’s about grief and depression, about finding your person – and yourself – later in life, about having the strength and courage to allow the unknown in. About embracing the ambivalence of one’s feelings. About letting go of the past and giving the future a chance, whether you’re twenty-three or fifty-one or in your sixties.
Emily Waters writes all this with gentleness and sensitivity, never passing judgement on characters she obviously loves and respects, turning melancholy into hopefulness and a world of possibilities.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read all my reviews on my blog (and please buy from the affiliation links!): Jude in the Stars
October 18, 2022
When I say I want a slow burn romance that makes me FEEL something, this is exactly the kind of storytelling I mean.
Every character contains multitudes and—though the book is short—the character development is excellent.
If you’ve read the fanfic this is adapted from, you should also read this book. The changes to the story were well done, but I still imagined the characters as if from the fic. Heh.
4.5 stars
Every character contains multitudes and—though the book is short—the character development is excellent.
If you’ve read the fanfic this is adapted from, you should also read this book. The changes to the story were well done, but I still imagined the characters as if from the fic. Heh.
4.5 stars
October 5, 2022
Once a successful and respected district attorney, Stella is now trapped in her grief at losing her police chief husband Sam to a horrific act of violence. Cutting all ties to her job and friends, she exists in her own world, barely eating, sinking more and more into a deep depression barely communicating with family. An unexpected stubborn motivation arrives in the form of her niece Addie. A ruse to get Stella out of her slump and reconnected with life. Also enlisted in this task is Elizabeth, police captain and colleague of Sam. Years before Elizabeth and Stella had crossed paths in a professional capacity and never really gotten on over time.
The author does a skillful job bringing out the despair, sadness and utter loneliness Stella experiences. The lack of motivation and grief that she surrounds herself with, a ship without an anchor. Addie and Elizabeth's back stories are well written. Why is Elizabeth so keen to help Stella? What about Addie? We learn about the importance of trauma counselling before life can slowly be enjoyed once again. I particularly liked the well-paced interactions between the mature leads Elizabeth and Stella. Gentle prodding, questions asked, emotions explored before hope, understanding and realization come to the fore with growth and happiness possible.
I easily recommend this wonderful debut from Emily Waters dealing with the sensitive topic of grief meshed with a slow romance and second chance possibilities.
I rec'd a copy through Ylva Publishing. This is a voluntary and completely unbiased review.
The author does a skillful job bringing out the despair, sadness and utter loneliness Stella experiences. The lack of motivation and grief that she surrounds herself with, a ship without an anchor. Addie and Elizabeth's back stories are well written. Why is Elizabeth so keen to help Stella? What about Addie? We learn about the importance of trauma counselling before life can slowly be enjoyed once again. I particularly liked the well-paced interactions between the mature leads Elizabeth and Stella. Gentle prodding, questions asked, emotions explored before hope, understanding and realization come to the fore with growth and happiness possible.
I easily recommend this wonderful debut from Emily Waters dealing with the sensitive topic of grief meshed with a slow romance and second chance possibilities.
I rec'd a copy through Ylva Publishing. This is a voluntary and completely unbiased review.
November 22, 2022
I read and loved this as a fanfic some time ago and I think I loved it even more now. It's a slow burn romance featuring protagonists in their 50's and 60's.
Stella has recently lost her husband and even though their marriage wasn't great, she's dealing with grief and depression. Her niece, Addie, moves in with her to help her get back on her feet. Addie has become friends with Elizabeth, an old co-worker of Stella's. Stella and Elizabeth don't have the best history. They didn't like each other when they worked together and Stella really doesn't want anything to do with her now.
This is told from Stella's point of view so this isn't always sunshine and roses. She goes back and forth with her depression/grief until slowly...very slowly Addie and Elizabeth (and eventually therapy) help her to move on.
Even though we don't get Elizabeth's pov here, I just adored her. Sometimes I wasn't always so sure why she wanted to be there for Stella so much but I finally figured it out. She's so patient and understanding with Stella, way more than Stella sometimes deserved. There are a couple of times when she gets a little sassy that just made me love her even more.
The longing/pining in this is also top notch!
Stella has recently lost her husband and even though their marriage wasn't great, she's dealing with grief and depression. Her niece, Addie, moves in with her to help her get back on her feet. Addie has become friends with Elizabeth, an old co-worker of Stella's. Stella and Elizabeth don't have the best history. They didn't like each other when they worked together and Stella really doesn't want anything to do with her now.
This is told from Stella's point of view so this isn't always sunshine and roses. She goes back and forth with her depression/grief until slowly...very slowly Addie and Elizabeth (and eventually therapy) help her to move on.
Even though we don't get Elizabeth's pov here, I just adored her. Sometimes I wasn't always so sure why she wanted to be there for Stella so much but I finally figured it out. She's so patient and understanding with Stella, way more than Stella sometimes deserved. There are a couple of times when she gets a little sassy that just made me love her even more.
The longing/pining in this is also top notch!
November 13, 2022
This was a fantastic read!
I absolutely enjoyed this book from the first word to the last one.
I found a so well written story where grief, depression, kindness, difficult jobs, professionalism, family, self discovery and love, are some of the topics you will go through along with its characters.
All of the above comes mixed with great chemistry between characters.
This book was definitely a special one!
5 stars 🌟
I absolutely enjoyed this book from the first word to the last one.
I found a so well written story where grief, depression, kindness, difficult jobs, professionalism, family, self discovery and love, are some of the topics you will go through along with its characters.
All of the above comes mixed with great chemistry between characters.
This book was definitely a special one!
5 stars 🌟
November 15, 2022
4.5 ⭐️
Since all my GR friends had already read and commented on how wonderful this book was my expectations were high, I was not disappointed!! I really enjoyed following Stella’s story and how she overcame her grief and depression and became the person she was meant to be. To see and feel her happiness was a joy to read.
Since all my GR friends had already read and commented on how wonderful this book was my expectations were high, I was not disappointed!! I really enjoyed following Stella’s story and how she overcame her grief and depression and became the person she was meant to be. To see and feel her happiness was a joy to read.
January 24, 2025
This is a wholesome and heartfelt romance about self-discovery and finding true love later in life, which felt really refreshing. The story follows Elizabeth and Stella, two women in their 50s and 60s, navigating love and grief with maturity and depth. The smaller cast of characters worked brilliantly, allowing the plot to remain focused and fully developed.
That said, I didn’t entirely buy into Elizabeth and Stella’s romance, unfortunately. While we’re told to believe their attraction has always been there, at times (not often but occasionally) it felt more like a relationship of convenience born out of a fear of loneliness rather than a deep, mutual connection.
But overall, it’s a sweet and thoughtful story that’s well worth the read.
That said, I didn’t entirely buy into Elizabeth and Stella’s romance, unfortunately. While we’re told to believe their attraction has always been there, at times (not often but occasionally) it felt more like a relationship of convenience born out of a fear of loneliness rather than a deep, mutual connection.
But overall, it’s a sweet and thoughtful story that’s well worth the read.
September 20, 2022
I’ll be the first to admit that I love a flawed character. I absolutely adore them. I also love a slow burn, particularly those that just have that constant simmer between the two main characters. Honey in the Marrow was just guaranteed to wow me, and wow me it did. I adored this book, so much so that I had a book hangover after it.
This book is a book about grief and depression. I was worried this would be heavy reading, but it truly wasn't. Instead, it's a great reflection on when you just need to take the time to feel, and then sort yourself out in a way that suits you. I've had moments of this too, so maybe its why I loved the way Stella is portrayed throughout. Elizabeth is a great character, let alone love interest. I loved that this book featured two characters who were over 50 but without it feeling like a big deal. It was just an expression of two humans really, who had lives and marriages and kids before figuring out their sexuality or meeting someone who fits them in a way that others do not. Simple really, but also super powerful.
Upon finishing it, I immediately had to know more about the author and what other books they'd written. I am blown away that this was a debut novel. I cannot wait to read what Emily Waters releases next.
Highly recommend a read.
Many thanks to Ylva Publishing for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
This book is a book about grief and depression. I was worried this would be heavy reading, but it truly wasn't. Instead, it's a great reflection on when you just need to take the time to feel, and then sort yourself out in a way that suits you. I've had moments of this too, so maybe its why I loved the way Stella is portrayed throughout. Elizabeth is a great character, let alone love interest. I loved that this book featured two characters who were over 50 but without it feeling like a big deal. It was just an expression of two humans really, who had lives and marriages and kids before figuring out their sexuality or meeting someone who fits them in a way that others do not. Simple really, but also super powerful.
Upon finishing it, I immediately had to know more about the author and what other books they'd written. I am blown away that this was a debut novel. I cannot wait to read what Emily Waters releases next.
Highly recommend a read.
Many thanks to Ylva Publishing for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
December 5, 2022
Available on KU. Gotta love a book that is so good you hate to see it end.
Stella's grief, Addie's kind heart and young persons zest for life and Elizabeth's constant support all come together to make this a memorable romance. Nice to see great sex scenes starring older women.
Loved it.
Stella's grief, Addie's kind heart and young persons zest for life and Elizabeth's constant support all come together to make this a memorable romance. Nice to see great sex scenes starring older women.
Loved it.
March 10, 2024
A Wonderful Read! 🥰
December 2, 2023
I was genuinely surprised by this book but in the end, I was very happy with the read. Stella is navigating grief at the recent loss of her husband. She had a high profile job in the prosecutor’s office in LA but has taken permanent leave. Early on, the author paints a raw picture of Stella’s painful struggle. Then her niece, Addie, and an old colleague, Elizabeth, insert themselves onto her path, hoping to help in some way.
What I liked best about the book is how authentic the characters seemed. Stella is the main and I rooted for her even though she could be harsh and inconsiderate. But it’s the fact that she finally recognizes that people will love her at her best and worst that buoys her and helps her to find her footing. The road forward is not easy and the book does not cheat. We see her ups and downs. I also enjoyed the characters of Addie and Elizabeth who are both well drawn and full of personality.
If anyone is wondering about the intimate scenes between these two older gals, they are what you’d expect from two grown women who love sex, hot and steamy. Anastasia Watley’s narration is amazing as usual.
What I liked best about the book is how authentic the characters seemed. Stella is the main and I rooted for her even though she could be harsh and inconsiderate. But it’s the fact that she finally recognizes that people will love her at her best and worst that buoys her and helps her to find her footing. The road forward is not easy and the book does not cheat. We see her ups and downs. I also enjoyed the characters of Addie and Elizabeth who are both well drawn and full of personality.
If anyone is wondering about the intimate scenes between these two older gals, they are what you’d expect from two grown women who love sex, hot and steamy. Anastasia Watley’s narration is amazing as usual.
October 20, 2022
I just loved it. The stories, the caracters... Maybe i fall in love with Elizabeth a bit...
December 9, 2025
Easily one of my favorites books of the year so far.
Honey in the Marrow is a beautifully written, emotionally rich story that explores grief, healing, and love with such tenderness. I was especially moved by Stella’s character development—watching her slowly come back to herself after deep loss was powerful and so real. The way the book handles grief is both gentle and unflinching.
And the slow burn between Stella and Elizabeth? Absolutely perfect. I fell in love with their dynamic, the back and forth at the beginning, absolutely everything. Their relationship unfolds with so much care and depth, making every moment between them feel earned.
A quiet, resonant gem of a novel. ♡
Honey in the Marrow is a beautifully written, emotionally rich story that explores grief, healing, and love with such tenderness. I was especially moved by Stella’s character development—watching her slowly come back to herself after deep loss was powerful and so real. The way the book handles grief is both gentle and unflinching.
And the slow burn between Stella and Elizabeth? Absolutely perfect. I fell in love with their dynamic, the back and forth at the beginning, absolutely everything. Their relationship unfolds with so much care and depth, making every moment between them feel earned.
A quiet, resonant gem of a novel. ♡
October 17, 2023
An emotional journey of healing from depression and finding love in the process.
Rare and beautiful
Anastasia Watley did a wonderful job with the narration
4.5
Rare and beautiful
Anastasia Watley did a wonderful job with the narration
4.5
October 20, 2022
It’s never too late to embrace change. It’s never too late to want to be happy
Stella Carter, former DDA in Los Angeles, is struggling to regain control of her life after losing her husband. Her days pass inexorably slowly in a state of apathy and despair. When her niece Addie asks her to move in with her, Stella discovers that Addie is friends with her worst enemy, the icy and infuriating Elizabeth Murphy, former LAPD Captain, whose beauty, and apparent coldness have always spurred mixed emotions in Stella. As Stella, also Elizabeth has lived many losses and disappointments in her life, and as Stella she’s been keeping a secret for a long time.
Sometimes what you have always wanted will come to you when you least expect it, but you must want it too and embrace change.
Heartwarming and simply so beautifully tender, Honey in the Marrow is a story of loss, grief, self-acceptance and coming to terms with an unexpected reality.
The novel opens with Stella opening her eyes to the sunlight shining on her bed. The past nights have not been merciful to her. Sleep is not her friend; it comes too less or too much. Depression.
Depression is like living the life of someone else, looking at yourself at the mirror and wondering who the person staring at you on the other side is. Depression is the lack all of emotions, it is the darkness that will fog your mind and not let you see the beauty of the world. Depression leaves you bare of any humanity you have; it crashes you; it sucks all your energy, it fills you with sadness and anxiety, it paralyses your limbs and your thoughts. Depression is the best friend of fear of change, and they will make sure you will feel lonely and helpless. Depression is a constant fight, and it battles with your sense of pride asking for help. The weakness of letting someone help you carry your own body towards life again. Depression is the lack of any stimuli, of any desire, even the one to live, to carry on breathing. Depression is the fear you’ll never be who you used to be.
Asking for help and accepting help is difficult, but when suddenly you start feeling “something” again, that feeling becomes addictive, because it starts a sparkle that slowly will start burning brighter. You’ll want to feel more of it, you’ll want to feel “alive” again, you’ll want to push away all negative thoughts and embrace positivity, see the world with new eyes again. When depression leaves your body, it feels like you’re reborn, it feels like you’ve become the Phoenix, you’ve risen from your own ashes, stronger than ever.
Sometimes the reason why you manage to push through all this darkness lies within yourself, sometimes it comes in the form of help from other people, those you care about. It’s like their will to live and keep you alive is somehow transferred to you. They share their power with you, they recharge you, they stimulate you, they want you to care for yourself.
Stella has the greatest support system with Addie and Elizabeth. They form a perfect trio.
I cannot express how much I loved this novel. It’s the first time I read of such mature and multifaceted characters. My first age gap novel 50-60s.
The narrative is fluid, the present tense choice sucks you in the story and makes it more realistic, because Stella is still battling with both her past and her future, therefore she has left only the present to live for; slowly, day by day.
The coming to terms with her sexuality and her relationship with Elizabeth reminds me of something like tiptoeing on velvet. It’s delicate, silent, placid even.
There is not major angst in the novel, but the constant fog that doesn’t let Stella and Elizabeth see what is in front of them.
The evolution of their friendship is so touching that I was in constant awe and how it’s been portrayed.
Such strong women that have had a tough life, both from a professional and personal point of view. Stella thinks they are enemies, but couldn’t she be more wrong than that? An enemy won’t try to help you the way Elizabeth does. An enemy wouldn't "hug you in the darkness" to make you feel less alone.
How two lonely people come to say goodbye to loneliness has never been so beautiful. The subtle touching, hugging, and cuddling had my whole heart. Not to mention the steamy scenes left me with my mouth open for a while. Tender. So tender. So communicative.
Coming out is never easy. Discovering a woman’s body for the first time and discovering pleasure is priceless, at any age.
Feeling “alive” again is a feeling that you can’t explain to someone if you have never been there.
I loved everything of this novel, all characters, especially Addie. I would even read a novel only with her. But there’s one character that makes a brief appearance and I can’t stop thinking about her, and her life, her secrets, her past: Dot Northcott. I want her story to be told. I’m sure there’s a story there.
There’s indeed more to life than death.
Stella Carter, former DDA in Los Angeles, is struggling to regain control of her life after losing her husband. Her days pass inexorably slowly in a state of apathy and despair. When her niece Addie asks her to move in with her, Stella discovers that Addie is friends with her worst enemy, the icy and infuriating Elizabeth Murphy, former LAPD Captain, whose beauty, and apparent coldness have always spurred mixed emotions in Stella. As Stella, also Elizabeth has lived many losses and disappointments in her life, and as Stella she’s been keeping a secret for a long time.
Sometimes what you have always wanted will come to you when you least expect it, but you must want it too and embrace change.
Heartwarming and simply so beautifully tender, Honey in the Marrow is a story of loss, grief, self-acceptance and coming to terms with an unexpected reality.
The novel opens with Stella opening her eyes to the sunlight shining on her bed. The past nights have not been merciful to her. Sleep is not her friend; it comes too less or too much. Depression.
Depression is like living the life of someone else, looking at yourself at the mirror and wondering who the person staring at you on the other side is. Depression is the lack all of emotions, it is the darkness that will fog your mind and not let you see the beauty of the world. Depression leaves you bare of any humanity you have; it crashes you; it sucks all your energy, it fills you with sadness and anxiety, it paralyses your limbs and your thoughts. Depression is the best friend of fear of change, and they will make sure you will feel lonely and helpless. Depression is a constant fight, and it battles with your sense of pride asking for help. The weakness of letting someone help you carry your own body towards life again. Depression is the lack of any stimuli, of any desire, even the one to live, to carry on breathing. Depression is the fear you’ll never be who you used to be.
Asking for help and accepting help is difficult, but when suddenly you start feeling “something” again, that feeling becomes addictive, because it starts a sparkle that slowly will start burning brighter. You’ll want to feel more of it, you’ll want to feel “alive” again, you’ll want to push away all negative thoughts and embrace positivity, see the world with new eyes again. When depression leaves your body, it feels like you’re reborn, it feels like you’ve become the Phoenix, you’ve risen from your own ashes, stronger than ever.
Sometimes the reason why you manage to push through all this darkness lies within yourself, sometimes it comes in the form of help from other people, those you care about. It’s like their will to live and keep you alive is somehow transferred to you. They share their power with you, they recharge you, they stimulate you, they want you to care for yourself.
Stella has the greatest support system with Addie and Elizabeth. They form a perfect trio.
I cannot express how much I loved this novel. It’s the first time I read of such mature and multifaceted characters. My first age gap novel 50-60s.
The narrative is fluid, the present tense choice sucks you in the story and makes it more realistic, because Stella is still battling with both her past and her future, therefore she has left only the present to live for; slowly, day by day.
The coming to terms with her sexuality and her relationship with Elizabeth reminds me of something like tiptoeing on velvet. It’s delicate, silent, placid even.
There is not major angst in the novel, but the constant fog that doesn’t let Stella and Elizabeth see what is in front of them.
The evolution of their friendship is so touching that I was in constant awe and how it’s been portrayed.
Such strong women that have had a tough life, both from a professional and personal point of view. Stella thinks they are enemies, but couldn’t she be more wrong than that? An enemy won’t try to help you the way Elizabeth does. An enemy wouldn't "hug you in the darkness" to make you feel less alone.
How two lonely people come to say goodbye to loneliness has never been so beautiful. The subtle touching, hugging, and cuddling had my whole heart. Not to mention the steamy scenes left me with my mouth open for a while. Tender. So tender. So communicative.
Coming out is never easy. Discovering a woman’s body for the first time and discovering pleasure is priceless, at any age.
Feeling “alive” again is a feeling that you can’t explain to someone if you have never been there.
I loved everything of this novel, all characters, especially Addie. I would even read a novel only with her. But there’s one character that makes a brief appearance and I can’t stop thinking about her, and her life, her secrets, her past: Dot Northcott. I want her story to be told. I’m sure there’s a story there.
There’s indeed more to life than death.
January 15, 2024
Ok but I actually loved this.
Such a wonderful examination on grief and how it affects you. I really l loved the aunt/niece relationship with Stella and Addie. And I ended up loving Stella and Elizabeth’s relationship, too. Part of me sort of wishes we had gotten Elizabeth’s pov at some point, bc I’m so curious what was going on in her head during all of this, but I also love sitting in Stella’s as she worked through her grief, therapy, and relationships with both of them. I also ended up loving that it’s older women figuring themselves out. It’s nice to see that for some ppl, it takes a lot longer than others, but they can still get there in the end. Really well done and an absolute banger of a debut. Anastasia Whatley was a fantastic choice for this, her subtle southern accents fit perfectly for Stella and Addie’s voices and she nails the performances. I already stay on the lookout for sapphic books narrated by her, but I’m def keeping an eye out for Emily Waters books from now on too. I can tell this one is gonna become a reread for me at some point. Really great.
Such a wonderful examination on grief and how it affects you. I really l loved the aunt/niece relationship with Stella and Addie. And I ended up loving Stella and Elizabeth’s relationship, too. Part of me sort of wishes we had gotten Elizabeth’s pov at some point, bc I’m so curious what was going on in her head during all of this, but I also love sitting in Stella’s as she worked through her grief, therapy, and relationships with both of them. I also ended up loving that it’s older women figuring themselves out. It’s nice to see that for some ppl, it takes a lot longer than others, but they can still get there in the end. Really well done and an absolute banger of a debut. Anastasia Whatley was a fantastic choice for this, her subtle southern accents fit perfectly for Stella and Addie’s voices and she nails the performances. I already stay on the lookout for sapphic books narrated by her, but I’m def keeping an eye out for Emily Waters books from now on too. I can tell this one is gonna become a reread for me at some point. Really great.
October 16, 2022
I'm in the minority here but a few things gave me pause, which is why I give this book 3 stars.
To me the prose often sounded too matter-of-fact and emotionless. I like to dive into the psychological side of certain issues instead of just reading about them as mere facts which is the reason why I spent a lot of time vaguely interested instead of being invested in Stella and Elizabeth's story.
The characters barely discussed any issues they have in a deeper, meaningful way. The therapy sessions rarely got elaborated on, Stella's depression is diminished to a point where you wonder whether it's really because of her husband's death or because she's finally coming to terms with her sexual orientation. The (possible) panic attack scene was simply stated in a sentence without any further comment either.
Overall, it's a a nice book for those who enjoy a slow-burn that only goes skin-deep regarding mental health issues.
To me the prose often sounded too matter-of-fact and emotionless. I like to dive into the psychological side of certain issues instead of just reading about them as mere facts which is the reason why I spent a lot of time vaguely interested instead of being invested in Stella and Elizabeth's story.
The characters barely discussed any issues they have in a deeper, meaningful way. The therapy sessions rarely got elaborated on, Stella's depression is diminished to a point where you wonder whether it's really because of her husband's death or because she's finally coming to terms with her sexual orientation. The (possible) panic attack scene was simply stated in a sentence without any further comment either.
Overall, it's a a nice book for those who enjoy a slow-burn that only goes skin-deep regarding mental health issues.
October 31, 2022
Entertaining book about two MCs in their 50s and 60s. Refreshing.
It‘s not the typical romance because Stella is grieving very deeply and is depressed. Elisabeth is just yet becoming her friend and helping Stella. They met before but Stella wasn’t friendly towards Elisabeth. You have to read the book to know why that is.
There’s also Stellas niece who’s living with Stella as a very lovely second character. Highly recommend.
It‘s not the typical romance because Stella is grieving very deeply and is depressed. Elisabeth is just yet becoming her friend and helping Stella. They met before but Stella wasn’t friendly towards Elisabeth. You have to read the book to know why that is.
There’s also Stellas niece who’s living with Stella as a very lovely second character. Highly recommend.
November 9, 2025
This was such a wholesome and sweet read.
I loved the progression of the relationship between or two Mcs as they grieve and grow together. The evolution of their relationship from enemies to friends to lovers was really well done and the component of other side characters like Malarie, Addie (Stella's niece), and Josh (Elizabeth's son) all created a really cozy atmosphere.
I loved the message of finding joy and resilience in the small beautiful things in life, and I enjoyed how Stella's story of learning how to be vulnerable and communicate her needs and emotions felt natural and well-paced.
The plot in it of itself is kinda flat and not very intriguing most of the time, but it's such an incredibly heartwarming story with beautifully written and relatable characters and very strong messages of hope, grief, and love.
4 stars 🌟 🌟🌟🌟
I loved the progression of the relationship between or two Mcs as they grieve and grow together. The evolution of their relationship from enemies to friends to lovers was really well done and the component of other side characters like Malarie, Addie (Stella's niece), and Josh (Elizabeth's son) all created a really cozy atmosphere.
I loved the message of finding joy and resilience in the small beautiful things in life, and I enjoyed how Stella's story of learning how to be vulnerable and communicate her needs and emotions felt natural and well-paced.
The plot in it of itself is kinda flat and not very intriguing most of the time, but it's such an incredibly heartwarming story with beautifully written and relatable characters and very strong messages of hope, grief, and love.
4 stars 🌟 🌟🌟🌟
October 10, 2022
4.5
I don’t know how to put this feeling, but what a beautiful journey! I enjoy this slow-burn romance a lot. Both MCs are lovable, and you could not not love the side character, Addie! This is what I imagine when two women come out in their 50s and 60s. Dare I say it feels realistic?
I only wish there was an epilogue because it ends so abruptly and I just need more about them!
I don’t know how to put this feeling, but what a beautiful journey! I enjoy this slow-burn romance a lot. Both MCs are lovable, and you could not not love the side character, Addie! This is what I imagine when two women come out in their 50s and 60s. Dare I say it feels realistic?
I only wish there was an epilogue because it ends so abruptly and I just need more about them!
November 16, 2023
Grieving woman struggles to swim up to the surface from the pit of depression and tries to build meaningful relationships and reconnect with the world.
I love how the pacing of this story was set. The grieving stage took a lot of space but it wasn’t boring because it was interspersed with cute attempts at friendship and support. I really liked that the relationship was so gradual and halting because it felt authentic and natural. It most certainly is not a typical romance novel.
PS I loved the sarcasm and dry humour!
I love how the pacing of this story was set. The grieving stage took a lot of space but it wasn’t boring because it was interspersed with cute attempts at friendship and support. I really liked that the relationship was so gradual and halting because it felt authentic and natural. It most certainly is not a typical romance novel.
PS I loved the sarcasm and dry humour!
October 14, 2022
I was expecting a duller story, or maybe a better word is flatter. I was pleasantly surprised.
Stella is grieving her husband when her niece, Addie, decides to move to LA and Stella invites her to live with her. Addie helps Stella get out of her deep depression. She gets a little help (and later a lot more help) from Elizabeth. Stella’s former co-worker and person she just loved to hate. Stella is in such a deep dark hole it’s hard for her to come out of it. When she finally accepts some help from Addie and Elizabeth she starts to feel better. The therapist she goes to does a good job with her as well.
What I like about this book is that our mains are more mature than the usual in the genre. Stella is early fifties and Liz early sixties. For both of them all of this is new and it’s nice to see how they both struggle and come out of it. I would have liked to be in Elizabeth’s headspace from time to time as well, especially when the story evolves. We are only in third person POV of Stella, while it is interesting, I also would have liked to know Liz’s thoughts. That’s basically my only complaint. This is a nice book, a compelling story about grief and finding something (someone) you want and allowing yourself to enjoy life.
Stella is grieving her husband when her niece, Addie, decides to move to LA and Stella invites her to live with her. Addie helps Stella get out of her deep depression. She gets a little help (and later a lot more help) from Elizabeth. Stella’s former co-worker and person she just loved to hate. Stella is in such a deep dark hole it’s hard for her to come out of it. When she finally accepts some help from Addie and Elizabeth she starts to feel better. The therapist she goes to does a good job with her as well.
What I like about this book is that our mains are more mature than the usual in the genre. Stella is early fifties and Liz early sixties. For both of them all of this is new and it’s nice to see how they both struggle and come out of it. I would have liked to be in Elizabeth’s headspace from time to time as well, especially when the story evolves. We are only in third person POV of Stella, while it is interesting, I also would have liked to know Liz’s thoughts. That’s basically my only complaint. This is a nice book, a compelling story about grief and finding something (someone) you want and allowing yourself to enjoy life.
July 8, 2024
I will give this story a lot of credit. Not only does this feature two women of a certain age (51 and “just past 60”) finding love (including all the physical aspects of their love), but it takes its time getting there in very real ways.
I liked how imperfect the characters are and how a single argument/bad moment doesn't derail their journey to each other. I also like how long it takes the love story to develop. It's especially rewarding since the reader knows from the first pages that Stella is attracted to Elizabeth; Elizabeth is trickier, mostly because the story is told from Stella's point of view. It really felt like adults were in the room here: adults who communicate and give the other the benefit of the doubt and are simply trying to make it through the day.
I also loved Addie, Stella's adult niece who Stella treats and loves like a daughter and whom Elizabeth loves as well. I really liked the dynamic of this little self-made family.
But I really wish this wasn't a story about cops, which I generally avoid. I know this is a rewritten fanfic and I have no idea of the source material, but I'm sure their jobs are coming from that source. But it really impacted my enjoyment of story.
Overall, this was an engaging read. It's a slow story that never felt slow. A lovely romance.
I liked how imperfect the characters are and how a single argument/bad moment doesn't derail their journey to each other. I also like how long it takes the love story to develop. It's especially rewarding since the reader knows from the first pages that Stella is attracted to Elizabeth; Elizabeth is trickier, mostly because the story is told from Stella's point of view. It really felt like adults were in the room here: adults who communicate and give the other the benefit of the doubt and are simply trying to make it through the day.
I also loved Addie, Stella's adult niece who Stella treats and loves like a daughter and whom Elizabeth loves as well. I really liked the dynamic of this little self-made family.
But I really wish this wasn't a story about cops, which I generally avoid. I know this is a rewritten fanfic and I have no idea of the source material, but I'm sure their jobs are coming from that source. But it really impacted my enjoyment of story.
Overall, this was an engaging read. It's a slow story that never felt slow. A lovely romance.
January 11, 2023
4,5 stars
Honey in the Marrow was a beautiful story about loss and grief, but also about hope and healing.
The writing style was very appealing to me and refreshingly different.
I enjoyed Stella's and Elizabeth's journey a lot and I'm still thinking about the book a day after I've finished it.
Honey in the Marrow was a beautiful story about loss and grief, but also about hope and healing.
The writing style was very appealing to me and refreshingly different.
I enjoyed Stella's and Elizabeth's journey a lot and I'm still thinking about the book a day after I've finished it.
January 21, 2023
A beautiful story, completely different from the typical lesbian romance, which was refreshing. I loved that the main characters were middle aged.
January 24, 2023
Strangely old fashioned book - the action in their heads rather than on the page. After 60% was becoming bored, skip read the next 25% & finished reading fully. Felt I hadn’t missed anything.
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