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The Way We Wind

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Twins Bren and Clark have been holding each other up since their mother passed away. It hasn’t been easy. But Bren is running the family greenhouse and Clark has a good job at the local library. Life is quiet, just as Bren likes it. But Clark feels like he’s stagnating.

Bren isn’t looking for love when a greenhouse customer dumps water all over her. But Elodie’s cute and bouncy and, it turns out, a folklorist at the local college and has a special interest in plants and their stories. It seems like a perfect match.

Clark might have a tiny crush on a patron at the library, but he’s never going to say anything. But when Jasper, that very patron, asks for Clark’s assistance on a research project, Clark can’t say no. To Jasper or the project; Jasper’s researching local “ghost trails”. And Clark is a bit of a believer.

But trauma and grief are slippery things, and getting through it isn’t simple or easy. Maybe love needs to find a way to help them both heal.

157 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 1, 2023

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About the author

Halli Starling

17 books65 followers


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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for Amur Thera.
560 reviews76 followers
May 17, 2023
The good
    + The strong sibling relationship between Bren and Clark
    + Bren taking care of Clark by cooking him meals, and Clark being there for Bren whenever she needs him in return
    + The coziness of the whole story. Everything was so calm and relaxing
    + Elodie's note to Bren, asking her out
    + Bren becoming comfortable around Elodie
    + The dates Bren and Elodie went on (including the friendship dates at the beginning)
    + The honesty from all characters
    + Jasper gently flirting with Clark and trying to gauge his interest
    + Clark gaining confidence and flirting back
    + Jasper and Clark going on a ghost hunt
    + Just the sweetness of everything. The first tentative touches between Jasper and Clark, and also the cuddle date between Elodie and Bren
    + The character art at the beginning of the book. If you're planning to read this on an ereader, I'd suggest checking out the art on the author's website so you can see it in color


The neutral
    o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
    o The blurb mentions the interest Clark and Jasper have in ghost hunting. I just wanted to let anyone reading this that the setting is not paranormal/fantasy, but 'just' contemporary


The bad
    - I'm just grasping at straws here because I have trouble coming up with anything truly bad about this book. Because of the calm and smooth vibes of the story, it wasn't a book I couldn't put down. In fact, I put it down a few times and picked it up again whenever I needed something soft. It was a great way to unwind between stressful activities, or after reading an angsty book. This one is more like a soothing cup of tea than an intense page-turner


Quotes
    "Damn. Gorgeous and smart and good with her hands and able to grow beautiful carrots." Elodie set the carrot down and pinned Bren with a heated look. "I put that down so this didn't turn into some weird penis euphemism."

    "Touch me like I matter."



This book was just really sweet. Clark and Bren simultaneously got swept off their feet (but gently) by two amazing people. Jasper was both confident and bashful, and called Clark 'my favorite librarian'. Elodie was exactly the flawed bundle of happiness that Bren needed. Adding in the strong bond between Clark and Bren just created the perfect blend between coziness and romance. Would definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Bobbi.
392 reviews25 followers
July 15, 2023
"The Way We Wind" is a heartwarming and delightful queer read that left me with warm, fuzzy feelings. Halli Starling's writing style invites you into the lives of the characters, making you feel like you are part of their intimate circle of friends. The representation of a demisexual character is a welcome addition to the story, as it adds depth and diversity to the narrative.

The characters in the book are one of its strongest points. They are portrayed so realistically that it's easy to connect with them on a personal level. Their love stories are recounted in a way that feels genuine and heartfelt, making it easy to root for their happiness. The alternating perspectives of Bren and Clark provide a well-rounded view of their emotions and experiences, enriching the overall reading experience.

The simplicity of the plot is executed with finesse, allowing the story to unfold naturally. Despite being a short story, it manages to capture the essence of the characters and their journeys. While the ending felt a little rushed, it is understandable given the length of the book, and it does not detract from the overall enjoyment.

"The Way We Wind" is an easy, relaxed read, perfect for unwinding before bedtime. The book's ability to fill the reader with good vibes is a testament to its cozy and adorable nature. As an independent author, Halli Starling has crafted a lighthearted and well-crafted tale that leaves a lasting impression.

Enjoyment: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thought Provoking: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ease of Reading: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
World Building: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ending: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"The Way We Wind" is a charming and heartwarming tale that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for an enjoyable and cozy read.

I received an advanced copy of this book (ARC) from Book Sirens and Halli Starling (my thanks!) in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Caitlin Michelle.
594 reviews6 followers
June 13, 2023
This was a cozy, joyful, and hopeful story about twins Bren and Clark navigating their lives after experiencing the loss of their father as children and their mother in their late teens. While both are content with their lives, there is definitely a deeper connection and meaning that both are searching for.

Through their relationships with Elodie and Jasper, the twins are able to break out of their stagnant patterns and breathe life into their lives and themselves again. I thought both relationships were very well done, and I liked the ghost-hunting aspect that brought Clark and Jasper together. It's always a pleasant and hopeful surprise when you are able to find someone who nerds out to the same things you do. And Elodie's genuine openness and optimism were a great contrast to Bren's somewhat cynical and resigned outlook on life. Bren allowing herself the opportunity to embrace a new relationship and connection was a wonderful journey to follow.

I think my only real "complaint" was that because this was a novella, it was pretty short, and there was definitely a lot that could have been expanded upon here, especially with the trauma and grief that both Bren and Clark are experiencing, along with Bren's own personal trauma. But for the length of the story, I think the author did a good job including everything and making it a cohesive novella.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

LGBTQ+ Rep:
-Bren (she/her) is demisexual with leanings toward femme people
-Clark (he/him) is pansexual
-Elodie (she/they) is a lesbian
-Jasper (he/him) is pansexual, with leanings toward masculine people
Profile Image for Jennifer.
565 reviews14 followers
May 17, 2023
A lovely little slice-of-life story with a dual-pov between two twins as they figure out how to be happy even in grief. No angst, closed-door, not particularly high stakes - just happiness.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Anna.
387 reviews77 followers
May 30, 2023
“The Way We Wind” by Halli Starling

5⭐️/5⭐️
1🌶/5🌶

“Jasper studied him over the rim of his own cup. That look, that softness on Jasper’s face, felt like someone caressing his cheek. Clark wanted to lean into it, relish it. And when Jasper spoke, his voice had gone thick and syrupy and it dropped into Clark’s ears like a perfectly tuned orchestra.”

A touching novella centering around twin siblings as they navigate their grief. Bren and Clark have recently experienced the loss of their mother. Clark works at the local library and begins a flirtation with an attractive patron. Meanwhile, Bren is approached by a secret admirer. Through their respective relationships, the siblings realize they have the strength to find peace.

Full disclosure: I was an alpha reader for this novella. Thank you, Halli, for allowing me to read this story in advance!

-I adore Halli’s books, she has such a unique writing style. I truly have never read a collection of stories that compare to hers; they’re one of a kind. She has the incredible ability to create such down to Earth characters, and weave delightfully soft stories. There are no third act breakups in her books, no miscommunication, and very low angst. I enjoy taking a step away from angsty romance novels every so often, and I always turn to Halli’s stories. Her characters are mature and direct when they communicate, something (unfortunately) rare in many contemporary romance novels.

-”The Way We Wind” is a very special story, one that alternates POVs with each chapter. One POV is Clark, a local library director who enjoys exploring the paranormal in his free time. The other POV is Bren, Clark’s twin sister, who runs a successful greenhouse. The siblings are close, and are each navigating their grief concerning the passing of their mother. Clark’s affinity for ghost hunting and all things paranormal provide a sense of comfort for him; he feels at peace believing death isn’t the end of one’s journey. However, Bren has been struggling to move forward in her life. She feels listless and lost.

-I love how Halli presented varying methods of grief. There’s no wrong way to grieve the death of a loved one. Clark is no more valid in his journey than Bren is in hers, and I appreciated seeing two different paths toward acceptance and peace. Clark and Bren, while twins, are very different people.

-Now, there IS a romantic element to this story. While the topic of grief flows through each chapter, character, and event, there are some lighthearted moments. The banter between Clark and Jasper had me kicking my feet, it was so sweet and charming. Jasper is a smooth talker, but he’s 100% genuine with his words. He makes his feelings known, and I loved that there wasn’t any guesswork; he absolutely is interested in Clark. Meanwhile, Bren is pursued by Elodie, a professor at the local university. Elodie provides the gentle reassurance and support Bren needs, it touched my heart to read their scenes.

-I would definitely describe this book as more steamy than spicy. There are on-page implications for closed-door intimacy, but nothing is explicit. However, readers won’t even miss the smut. The banter between each couple is flirty, and there are some very steamy kisses described.

-I would recommend this book if you want to read a character-driven, low angst story. If you’re tired of all the miscommunication seen in popular contemporary romances, you absolutely should check out “The Way We Wind”.
Profile Image for Sofia Arcângelo.
197 reviews6 followers
May 22, 2023
I really enjoyed this story about Clark and Bren, and their struggle to find happiness while battling the grief they feel for their parents death. The author created a strong bond between brother and sister, and that can be felt either you're reading from Bren's POV or from Clark's, which transformed this short story into a cozy little story that makes you want more.

It was refreshing seeing characters being supportive of each other, and while dating their boundaries were respected in such a calm and respectful way and still being able to perceive the attraction and nurture they feel for each other. This being said, I have to point out that I loved Jasper, he has such a sweet heart and the way he flirted with Clark was so cute. Enough with the alpha male thing, we want men capable of expressing feelings, respectful, fun and sweet that makes the partner more confident and happy. That's Jasper! 😊

Just to finish this review, I have to say that I highly recommend this book if you're into cozy stories that will put a smile on your face. The only downside of this book is being really short, I wanted more about Clark/Jasper and Bren/Elodie story together.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Carter.
177 reviews
May 21, 2023
ARC REVIEW <3

The Way We Wind was an overall cozy book that just needed an extra 100 pages…

Every character the author introduces is so easily loveable that the rushed story didn’t feel impeding on the ability to connect with the characters but it didn’t stop you from wanting more. As I got to the end of the book my thought was “that’s it?”. I’m not one to shy away from a slice of life style or story but I feel like for the length of the book and the pacing the author had there should have been a more definite plot for the siblings rather than fall in love, go on date, time jump, happy ending.

I also wish there was more of a focus on the twins as individuals since even though it was a split POV there was an evident focus on Clark (e.g. even when it wasn’t his POV Bren was still talking about him majority of the time).

In saying this, I love the world that was created!! A cozy library gay who loves ghost hunting and a butch green thumb who prefers plants over people… GORGEOUS!

(I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily)
Profile Image for Babara-Anne.
1,818 reviews17 followers
June 28, 2023
SWEET DUAL POIGNANT LOVE STORY!

This is the fourth book by this author that I have read and I always grab their latest book when I see one available!

Two twin siblings trying to make a life for themselves after many tragic events finally find their perfect persons and this is their sweet, poignant journey…

Bren lives for her plants but after re-opening her mothers greenhouse nursery she can’t get over her clinical depression among other issues until a cute sunshiny customer- Elodie a folklorist - accidentally causes an incident involving a hanging plant and water….

Clark is a librarian who loves to ghost hunt, play board games and do research.
Jasper is a classical musician, ghost hunter, gamesman and writer of paranormal sightings.
Their paths has crossed time and time again in the library but will either make a move?…

This is the twins journey to find their perfect person in a sweet, short story!

received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Zarlina .
265 reviews20 followers
September 7, 2023
This one started out really slow, and in the beginning I didn't think I would like it. I couldn't at all connect to the characters and I felt absolutely no interest in getting to know them either. For a while I thought this would be one of those books that I would finish only because it's short and because I'm too stubborn to give up on most of the books I start, but thankfully it took a turn and I ended up enjoying it a lot.

I don't really know what changed, but I do think Jasper played a part in it. He intrigued me and I was suddenly not only reading to finish the thing, but I actually wanted to know more. At some point Bren's chapters also got more interesting, and I ended up reading the rest of the book in one go.

I'm not sure what I want to say with this review, but if you do read this one and find it as boring as I did the first few chapters, give it some time. It'll get better, and then it gets GOOD. It's a perfectly nice little story which will leave you feeling all warm and cosy inside.
Profile Image for Denise.
7,672 reviews139 followers
June 13, 2023
Halli Starling has very quickly made it onto my must-read list, so picking up this latest work - a short dual POV novel following two siblings overcoming grief and finding love - was a no-brainer for me.
This was a quick, sweet slice of life style read. I'd have liked to dig a little deeper into both protagonists' lives and personalities than the fairly low page count allowed, but I thoroughly enjoyed both halves of the story. Hopefully the author's next release will be a little longer, leaving her more room to unfold her full storytelling skills.

*** I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
Profile Image for Jess.
251 reviews17 followers
June 21, 2023
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC!

This was a cozy, slice-of-life read about twins, Bren and Clark, finding love and dealing with trauma. I really liked how this took on swapping perspectives between the twins and their interactions with their love interests, both of them felt really well-developed and were likable, as well as Bren and Clark's love interests, Elodie and Jasper. The communication in this book was fantastic as well; the characters were open and honest about their traumas and what they liked/disliked in relationships. It was really refreshing. I think I just wish this was longer, I would have liked for more interaction between Bren and Clark since they were twins and living together and sometimes parts of the story from one perspective felt like it got more time/felt more fleshed out than a part on the other characters story.
Profile Image for Shrey Shrey.
21 reviews2 followers
July 16, 2023
4/5 ⭐️’s

A solid read with awesome representation! This book features the LGBTQ+ community, anxiety, depression, and has overall great representation! This book is a relatively quick read that features not one, but TWO romances. From the beginning to the end there was so much character growth!

This book featured an absolutely fluffy romance that show’s character’s who deal with grief and life in there own unique way! I do wonder though, if the author took some inspiration from Jasper Hale (twilight) ? Either way, this is an awesome book that I would 100% recommend!

-Shrey Shrey 💕

P.S I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,723 reviews14 followers
June 27, 2023
Brother and sister, twins, both beginning a journey, a new place in their lives. The book is divided into two perspectives, two separate journeys intertwined. Bren and Clark each share their romantic journeys of new love and happiness. Both have an interesting path and a sweetness about their stories. Engaging to read and both leave you feeling happy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Stuart Tudor.
Author 6 books16 followers
November 3, 2023
Sweet and wholesome

This was a beautiful and sweet novella about love and life. I felt like I was wrapped in a warm comfortable blanket.

I think the horror could have been removed for a tighter experience. However it is barely there in the first place so it isn't that.
Profile Image for Nicole.
193 reviews1 follower
May 30, 2023
Nice view into anxiety/depression after devastating events in one’s past and moving beyond the event(s). Thanks to BookSirens for the arc to read and review for free.
Profile Image for Carmen.
243 reviews
March 16, 2025
My only complaint about this book is it was too short!! I wanted more ghost hunting and podcasting and all the cute yearning between these two couples. This was so fun and cute.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews