“Coming Home to Starr’s Fall” by Kate Hewitt Book Review: A Perfect Cozy Read for Fall @author_kate @BoldwoodBooks

Coming Home to Starr’s Fall is a cozy romance about a woman starting over in a small town, where she finds love and uncovers secrets from her past.

Acknowledgments:

Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the ARC of this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

Summary:

Kate Hewitt crafts a heartwarming romance set in a charming yet fading small town, where Laurie Ellis seeks a fresh start with her quirky pet store and bakery. Despite her doubts and the skeptical attitude of Joshua Reilly, the gruff bookstore manager across the street, Laurie is determined to make Starr’s Fall her new home, leaving behind the shadows of her past. As Laurie and Joshua clash over her unconventional business, they unknowingly hold the keys to healing each other’s broken hearts. Amid the crisp autumn air and falling leaves, Starr’s Fall becomes the backdrop for a season of unexpected love, renewal, and uncovering hidden truths.

My Thoughts:

If you’re searching for the perfect cozy read this fall, “Coming Home to Starr’s Fall” by Kate Hewitt might be just what you need. This charming story weaves together the warmth of small-town life with the intrigue of a woman on a mission to solve a personal mystery. As the first book in Hewitt’s newest series, it’s already got me eagerly awaiting the next installment.

From the moment I met Laurie Ellis, I felt a connection. Laurie, carrying the weight of a tragic past, bravely leaves the hustle and bustle of the big city for the quiet, half-empty town of Starr’s Fall. Her decision to set up a pet store and bakery—a bakery for dogs, no less—is a testament to her determination to start over, even as she wonders if she’s made the right choice. The town, with its shuttered storefronts and nostalgic charm, feels like the perfect place for Laurie to begin anew, and I loved watching her embrace this new chapter in her life.

The residents of Starr’s Fall quickly become central to the story, particularly Joshua Reilly, the handsome yet grumpy manager of the bookstore across the street. Joshua’s own backstory adds depth to his character, making the development of his friendship and eventual romance with Laurie all the more enjoyable to watch. Hewitt does a wonderful job of highlighting the pros and cons of small-town living, and the community aspect of the story is both heartwarming and realistic.

Laurie’s loyal dog, Max, adds an extra layer of charm to the story, getting up to a few antics of his own as he settles into their new life. His playful nature and obvious devotion to Laurie provide some lighter moments, balancing the more emotional aspects of the story.

One of my favorite parts of the book was observing Laurie as she renovates her business and home. Her hard work and creativity not only bring her closer to achieving her dreams but also give her a sense of well-being that is palpable. Laurie’s kindness and respect for others make her a character you can’t help but root for.

The book is being marketed as perfect for fans of the Gilmore Girls TV show, and while there are some parallels—Starr’s Fall does have a bit of that Stars Hollow vibe, and both Laurie and Lorelai share a fondness for surly men—I found the similarities to be just the right amount. As a fan of Gilmore Girls, these nods were a delightful addition without overshadowing the unique story Hewitt has crafted.

Final Thoughts:

“Coming Home to Starr’s Fall” is a delightful read that combines a cozy small-town setting, a sweet romance, and a compelling mystery. If you’re looking for a book that captures the essence of fall and leaves you with a warm feeling, this one is definitely worth picking up.