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Reasonable Adults
Fans of Sophie Cousens and Josie Silver will love the blend of deep soul searching, laugh-out-loud humor, touching romance, and a snowy setting in this insightful story about a woman finding the next phase of her life in a totally unexpected way.
The morning after a humiliating post-breakup social media post (#sponsoredbywine), Kate Rigsby learns she’s lost her marketing job along with her almost-fiancé.Worse, she realizes how little she truly cared about either. Craving a reset, Kate flees the big-city life she spent many years building—and almost as many doubting—to take a temporary gig at Treetops, a swanky, off-the-grid creative retreat in Muskoka, complete with meditation circles, deluxe spa, and artisanal cocktails.At least, that’s what the brochure promises . . .
The reality is a struggling resort that’s stuck in the 1990s, fax machine included. Kate’s office is a bunker, her boss is a nightmare, and at night she shares a freezing hut with her seventy-pound Goldendoodle. Then there’s the sexy, off-limits coworker whose easy smile and lumberjack forearms are distracting Kate from the already near-impossible task of making this snowbound oasis profitable.
On the upside, the surroundings are breathtaking. The Treetops crew is quirky and (mostly) kind. And somehow, Kate’s starting to feel new enthusiasm for her career—and her life. In fact, she’s daring to challenge herself in ways she never dreamed of before.
With wit and heart, Reasonable Adults explores the crossroads we all face—and how a detour born of disaster can take us just where we need to go.
“Reasonable Adults is smart, romantic comedy filled with madcap moments that will leave you laughing out loud. An absolute delight!”
—Trish Doller, international bestselling author of The Suite Spot
The morning after a humiliating post-breakup social media post (#sponsoredbywine), Kate Rigsby learns she’s lost her marketing job along with her almost-fiancé.Worse, she realizes how little she truly cared about either. Craving a reset, Kate flees the big-city life she spent many years building—and almost as many doubting—to take a temporary gig at Treetops, a swanky, off-the-grid creative retreat in Muskoka, complete with meditation circles, deluxe spa, and artisanal cocktails.At least, that’s what the brochure promises . . .
The reality is a struggling resort that’s stuck in the 1990s, fax machine included. Kate’s office is a bunker, her boss is a nightmare, and at night she shares a freezing hut with her seventy-pound Goldendoodle. Then there’s the sexy, off-limits coworker whose easy smile and lumberjack forearms are distracting Kate from the already near-impossible task of making this snowbound oasis profitable.
On the upside, the surroundings are breathtaking. The Treetops crew is quirky and (mostly) kind. And somehow, Kate’s starting to feel new enthusiasm for her career—and her life. In fact, she’s daring to challenge herself in ways she never dreamed of before.
With wit and heart, Reasonable Adults explores the crossroads we all face—and how a detour born of disaster can take us just where we need to go.
“Reasonable Adults is smart, romantic comedy filled with madcap moments that will leave you laughing out loud. An absolute delight!”
—Trish Doller, international bestselling author of The Suite Spot
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
80 people are currently reading
18220 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 384 reviews
January 18, 2023
TW: Attempted Rape, Rape Apologists?
I loved the premise and enjoyed the description of the environment. That’s about all. There is a near attempted rape (non-consent groping and hinting that it would have gone farther if not interrupted) on page 230 that comes out of nowhere and I’m not sure why it was necessary. It’s not properly addressed and doesn’t seem to fit in a rom com style book of this fluff. What’s worse is on page 247 when I realized the author was making it seem like the MC needed to apologize to the man who defended a potential rapist? What?! I had to go back and re-read a few scenes and then look at other reviews to see if I got it wrong, but nope. “You made mistakes” says the best friend to the MC. Okay, so we’re writing women like they’re not allowed to react strongly to almost being raped… that being emotional and angry is a mistake? What the actual heck. Not cool.
I’m sorry if the author is hurt by this review, but please do better by victims when you’re writing them. We are not filler and this type of event in a book should always have due respect given.
I loved the premise and enjoyed the description of the environment. That’s about all. There is a near attempted rape (non-consent groping and hinting that it would have gone farther if not interrupted) on page 230 that comes out of nowhere and I’m not sure why it was necessary. It’s not properly addressed and doesn’t seem to fit in a rom com style book of this fluff. What’s worse is on page 247 when I realized the author was making it seem like the MC needed to apologize to the man who defended a potential rapist? What?! I had to go back and re-read a few scenes and then look at other reviews to see if I got it wrong, but nope. “You made mistakes” says the best friend to the MC. Okay, so we’re writing women like they’re not allowed to react strongly to almost being raped… that being emotional and angry is a mistake? What the actual heck. Not cool.
I’m sorry if the author is hurt by this review, but please do better by victims when you’re writing them. We are not filler and this type of event in a book should always have due respect given.
December 11, 2022
2⭐️
TW: sexual assault
Reasonable Adults follows Kate Rigsby, freshly fired and taking on a new business opportunity at a luxury retreat in Muskoka. Once there, she realizes she has been set up for failure, but manages to slowly fall in love with the retreat and the family of workers there, along with one attractive worker in particular.
Being a Canadian debut author, and having the setting take place in both Toronto and Muskoka, I was really hoping to love this book. After reading the synopsis, I was anticipating a wintery camp romance, but unfortunately it did not deliver the way I thought it would.
For the first third of the book, it took me a long time to get into the story or even Kate's head, and I was not feeling connected to the plot at all. The setting and Eric the goldendoodle were great, but the pacing was not, and I could not understand why Kate would stay there.
Throughout the middle of the book, we are introduced to many staff and patrons, and I liked how they all had their own personalities and weren't just invisible side characters. There were a few entertaining interactions, but again, I was still not invested in their stories. After Matt is introduced as the love interest, I could not determine any foundation for a "spark" between Kate and Matt, she simply found him attractive and it seemed as though they just wanted to hookup.
After questioning why Kate's ex-boyfriend would even attend the retreat, an incident takes place that I reference in the trigger warning. It did catch me off guard, but what caught me even more off guard was Matt's reaction to the incident. There is essentially victim blaming, and Matt still remains the love interest afterwards (not a fan).
I fail to understand why Brooke's ex-husband would trust her with one of his companies; you can see from the start that she is not invested at all and actively destroying the business. While I questioned Kate staying, I definitely question how the staff even allowed things to get to the ending point. Along with that, the ending of the story was very convenient, and I'm not sure how I felt about it.
What I do feel for sure is that Matt and Kate are the type of couple to break up after the story is over, or they will remain together solely because of the cult-like vibes of the group. While I am not a fan of Matt, I did like how Kate had a voice and ideas, and she didn't just lie down and accept her fate. She managed to make something good out of a bad situation, and I admire her character and her attitude!
I think this author has potential, the ideas were there but just had to be buffed out more in my opinion. Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins Canada for the eARC!
TW: sexual assault
Reasonable Adults follows Kate Rigsby, freshly fired and taking on a new business opportunity at a luxury retreat in Muskoka. Once there, she realizes she has been set up for failure, but manages to slowly fall in love with the retreat and the family of workers there, along with one attractive worker in particular.
Being a Canadian debut author, and having the setting take place in both Toronto and Muskoka, I was really hoping to love this book. After reading the synopsis, I was anticipating a wintery camp romance, but unfortunately it did not deliver the way I thought it would.
For the first third of the book, it took me a long time to get into the story or even Kate's head, and I was not feeling connected to the plot at all. The setting and Eric the goldendoodle were great, but the pacing was not, and I could not understand why Kate would stay there.
Throughout the middle of the book, we are introduced to many staff and patrons, and I liked how they all had their own personalities and weren't just invisible side characters. There were a few entertaining interactions, but again, I was still not invested in their stories. After Matt is introduced as the love interest, I could not determine any foundation for a "spark" between Kate and Matt, she simply found him attractive and it seemed as though they just wanted to hookup.
After questioning why Kate's ex-boyfriend would even attend the retreat, an incident takes place that I reference in the trigger warning. It did catch me off guard, but what caught me even more off guard was Matt's reaction to the incident. There is essentially victim blaming, and Matt still remains the love interest afterwards (not a fan).
I fail to understand why Brooke's ex-husband would trust her with one of his companies; you can see from the start that she is not invested at all and actively destroying the business. While I questioned Kate staying, I definitely question how the staff even allowed things to get to the ending point. Along with that, the ending of the story was very convenient, and I'm not sure how I felt about it.
What I do feel for sure is that Matt and Kate are the type of couple to break up after the story is over, or they will remain together solely because of the cult-like vibes of the group. While I am not a fan of Matt, I did like how Kate had a voice and ideas, and she didn't just lie down and accept her fate. She managed to make something good out of a bad situation, and I admire her character and her attitude!
I think this author has potential, the ideas were there but just had to be buffed out more in my opinion. Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins Canada for the eARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2023
DNF at 3%.
I had to stop reading because this book was inane. But, guess what, because I got this as an advanced reader copy, I thought I would try again a week later. I had to repeat some of this book because I could not remember what had happened. The first time I read one percent.
In the first 3%, the book is so ridiculous that I could not continue. It felt like the author was trying to force something in this book. And made up so many ridiculous situation that makes absolutely no sense!
1. Her 24-year-old boss calls her 31-year-old self "middle aged".
2. Her boss encourages her to "dress down". And he spilled coffee on her expensive clothing with no apology. He is actually giddy because it forces her to change her clothing. She wears a borrowed flower dress
3. She is dealing with drug dealing clients. Why? I don't understand. They also wear boots with manure on them. Why? I do not understand.
There is more but I am too tired to write about it. It is just so incredibly stupid I could not continue this book.
The narrator is pretty good though
I had to stop reading because this book was inane. But, guess what, because I got this as an advanced reader copy, I thought I would try again a week later. I had to repeat some of this book because I could not remember what had happened. The first time I read one percent.
In the first 3%, the book is so ridiculous that I could not continue. It felt like the author was trying to force something in this book. And made up so many ridiculous situation that makes absolutely no sense!
1. Her 24-year-old boss calls her 31-year-old self "middle aged".
2. Her boss encourages her to "dress down". And he spilled coffee on her expensive clothing with no apology. He is actually giddy because it forces her to change her clothing. She wears a borrowed flower dress
3. She is dealing with drug dealing clients. Why? I don't understand. They also wear boots with manure on them. Why? I do not understand.
There is more but I am too tired to write about it. It is just so incredibly stupid I could not continue this book.
The narrator is pretty good though
January 5, 2023
matt has 0 personality and also wtf kind of dog is named eric
November 24, 2023
I won this in a Good Reads Giveaway.
Look, overall I think this book may just not have been my cup of tea. When it comes to Rom Coms I'm tired of main characters that are Lorelei Gilmore wannabes but fall woefully short. Kate, the main character of this book, is pessimistic and a bit of a Debbie Downer, but is continuously described by the wannabe quirky rag tag team of supporting characters as a 'brave badass', of which I feel there is zero evidence to support. I think the author was going for a 'witty and quirky' vibe based off of her dialogue, but it fell flat for me. The supporting characters weren't that interesting, and I felt zero chemistry between Kate and the love interest. The plot was meh, and it never really felt high stakes for me. I guess I just couldn't care enough about Kate's struggles to root for her.
Giving this 3 stars because it is the author's debut novel and for a first attempt it's not terrible. I think the author has potential, and writing any sort of novel that you publish is impressive to me, especially one written during COVID with two small children at home.
Look, overall I think this book may just not have been my cup of tea. When it comes to Rom Coms I'm tired of main characters that are Lorelei Gilmore wannabes but fall woefully short. Kate, the main character of this book, is pessimistic and a bit of a Debbie Downer, but is continuously described by the wannabe quirky rag tag team of supporting characters as a 'brave badass', of which I feel there is zero evidence to support. I think the author was going for a 'witty and quirky' vibe based off of her dialogue, but it fell flat for me. The supporting characters weren't that interesting, and I felt zero chemistry between Kate and the love interest. The plot was meh, and it never really felt high stakes for me. I guess I just couldn't care enough about Kate's struggles to root for her.
Giving this 3 stars because it is the author's debut novel and for a first attempt it's not terrible. I think the author has potential, and writing any sort of novel that you publish is impressive to me, especially one written during COVID with two small children at home.
December 23, 2023
I’m a bit confused at the low ratings cause this was a lighthearted and fun read - minus one part (but I’ll get to that). I did listen to the audiobook and I think that gave me a different experience.
Kate catches her ex cheating on her and films a drunk video telling everyone. That video ends up getting her fired from her job. With no prospects she accepts a job at a getaway resort in the middle of nowhere, where she’s tasked with upping the rentals in the dead of winter. She also meets Matt, who is the owners son and a romance starts to bloom. Plus there’s a golden retriever that is adorable. 🦮
I will note that at about the 75% mark an attempted SA happens to the FMC by her ex. The MMC sees and then somehow ends up mad at her saying she invited him here and he’s just a place holder. Yikes. Victim blaming at its finest. I’m assuming this is where most people dropped their ratings. I don’t think it was out of place, but could’ve been handled very differently.
Overall I quite enjoyed this. It was just what I was in the mood for. I felt like I was in this snow covered, cold, wilderness vacation with all of these people.
Kate catches her ex cheating on her and films a drunk video telling everyone. That video ends up getting her fired from her job. With no prospects she accepts a job at a getaway resort in the middle of nowhere, where she’s tasked with upping the rentals in the dead of winter. She also meets Matt, who is the owners son and a romance starts to bloom. Plus there’s a golden retriever that is adorable. 🦮
I will note that at about the 75% mark an attempted SA happens to the FMC by her ex. The MMC sees and then somehow ends up mad at her saying she invited him here and he’s just a place holder. Yikes. Victim blaming at its finest. I’m assuming this is where most people dropped their ratings. I don’t think it was out of place, but could’ve been handled very differently.
Overall I quite enjoyed this. It was just what I was in the mood for. I felt like I was in this snow covered, cold, wilderness vacation with all of these people.
April 2, 2023
I enjoyed the setting and think I would have liked this book more if it kept to a storyline about a woman and her career rather than trying to bring in a workplace romance.
December 18, 2023
This was good and funny, but it was a Netflix Halmark movie plot I've seen before. The ending was a bit rushed and wrapped up in two pages. And nothing on Chaz.
December 12, 2022
Reasonable Adults was an enjoyable debut that is a combination of RomCom and a journey of self-discovery that follows Kate Rigsby, a 31-year-old woman whose personal and professional lives have recently taken a beating. After she loses her job and finds herself single, she and her dog Eric head to northern Ontario for a job at an artists' retreat centre. But things don't go according to plan. Naturally.
This debut had all the right pieces - self-discovery, romance, humour, and beautiful setting. The plot took a while to get going, but soon readers are pulled into the story and its beautiful wintery Muskoka setting. I was impressed with the depth that Lefler gives her large secondary cast and while Kate is a resilient main character, she pales a bit in comparison with her rampant self-doubt stemming from her work and personal lives going spectacularly wrong as she weathers a series of unfortunate (and contrived) events.
A sweet romance quickly springs up for romance lovers, but my favourite parts of this debut were the sprinkling of humour, the gorgeous wintery Ontario setting and the secondary characters who simply shine - including canine Eric.
This was an entertaining debut that romance and dog loving outdoorsy readers should enjoy - especially snuggled up by a roaring fire while the snow flies outside. Despite a slow start, Lefler has proven she has writing chops and with some tweaks, I predict this is an author to watch out for.
Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to HarperAvenue books for my complimentary digital copy of this book which was provided in exchange for my honest review.
March 12, 2024
DNF on page 9
I really thought I'd like this.
I really thought I'd like this.
December 6, 2022
Reasonable Adults was one of those books I knew I was instantly going to like. The main character, Kate, had a distinct, quirky voice, and she had me laughing from the very first page. Throw in a beautiful, wintery Canadian setting, a great cast of characters with strong found family vibes, an adorable dog, and a sexy hero, and this book was a total winner for me. I’m ready to pack my bags and spend a winter making art at Treetops with Kate and the others.
I will say I feel like this book is more romantic women’s fiction than straight-up romance since the romance takes a bit of a backseat to Kate’s personal journey and growth, but I enjoyed the romance and I really liked the scenes with Kate and Matt together. It was so much fun watching Kate go from floundering after losing her boyfriend and her job to finding where she belonged and with whom. She had been coasting along in life, but when she decided to really give Treetops a chance, she found something she thrived at, and I think a lot of people will be able to relate to that.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted, fun, and cozy read that’ll make you laugh out loud, be sure to pick up Reasonable Adults this winter (or any time!).
*I received an advance copy of this book from HarperCollins Canada via Netgalley. All thoughts are my own
I will say I feel like this book is more romantic women’s fiction than straight-up romance since the romance takes a bit of a backseat to Kate’s personal journey and growth, but I enjoyed the romance and I really liked the scenes with Kate and Matt together. It was so much fun watching Kate go from floundering after losing her boyfriend and her job to finding where she belonged and with whom. She had been coasting along in life, but when she decided to really give Treetops a chance, she found something she thrived at, and I think a lot of people will be able to relate to that.
If you’re looking for a lighthearted, fun, and cozy read that’ll make you laugh out loud, be sure to pick up Reasonable Adults this winter (or any time!).
*I received an advance copy of this book from HarperCollins Canada via Netgalley. All thoughts are my own
December 29, 2024
This is an okay, middle of the road read.
I really did like the setting of a wilderness resort, especially set in the winter. I have been to a similar resort during the summer and wondered at the time what it would be like to be there in the winter. This story brought those thoughts to life and fuelled my imagination even more.
Due to the setting and this specific plot, it felt like a unique story. A romance but with a spin on it that made it feel different.
There was one element to the storyline with the main character's past relationship that I didn't necessarily think needed to be added to this novel. It felt out of place and I don't think there was anything to be gained from including it in the story.
This was overall a good read, especially when read in the winter months.
I really did like the setting of a wilderness resort, especially set in the winter. I have been to a similar resort during the summer and wondered at the time what it would be like to be there in the winter. This story brought those thoughts to life and fuelled my imagination even more.
Due to the setting and this specific plot, it felt like a unique story. A romance but with a spin on it that made it feel different.
There was one element to the storyline with the main character's past relationship that I didn't necessarily think needed to be added to this novel. It felt out of place and I don't think there was anything to be gained from including it in the story.
This was overall a good read, especially when read in the winter months.
December 10, 2022
I went back and forth a lot on my rating for this one! Working in PR, Kate's career implodes overnight after a drunken social media post blasts her prestigious ex-boyfriend. With little options left, she lands a job at Treetops Creative Retreat, a luxury resort for artists in Muskoka.
I really liked Kate. With her signature snark and resilience, she puts so much heart and creativity into her new role as Business Development Director—a job that comes with many unexpected challenges. With her perfectly curated life out the window, I loved seeing her find exactly who she is meant to be, along with a really sweet romance with Matt, the visual arts mentor at Treetops.
This setting was so dreamy, I must say. Secluded in the wilderness, I'd love to escape to a place like Treetops. You could truly feel the connection it had on its characters. And speaking of characters, there's A LOT of them. They all felt integral to the story, which is great, but it was overwhelming at times. I struggled to remember who was who. But overall I really loved the heart of this story. I'd definitely read Robin Lefler again!
(heat level: A mix of closed-door scenes and open-door scenes with mild details)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really liked Kate. With her signature snark and resilience, she puts so much heart and creativity into her new role as Business Development Director—a job that comes with many unexpected challenges. With her perfectly curated life out the window, I loved seeing her find exactly who she is meant to be, along with a really sweet romance with Matt, the visual arts mentor at Treetops.
This setting was so dreamy, I must say. Secluded in the wilderness, I'd love to escape to a place like Treetops. You could truly feel the connection it had on its characters. And speaking of characters, there's A LOT of them. They all felt integral to the story, which is great, but it was overwhelming at times. I struggled to remember who was who. But overall I really loved the heart of this story. I'd definitely read Robin Lefler again!
(heat level: A mix of closed-door scenes and open-door scenes with mild details)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 21, 2023
“What’s your output? Your craft. Your art. What do you give back to this beautiful earth in gratitude for providing you the chance to live on it?”
I was sent an ARC copy of this book by HarperCollins Canada in exchange for an honest review.
I've also posted this review on Instagram and my blog.
Instagram Post
Blog Post
Content Warnings: toxic relationship, attempted sexual assault, death of a parent (past), cancer (past, mentioned)
What intrigued me from the beginning was the beautiful nature setting! It felt very immersive and I could easily picture Kate and Eric running around in the snowy forest. The concept of a luxury artist retreat was also exciting and I enjoyed learning more about the guests and their different forms of art. Each side character had their own story and past, which was fun to read about. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel very connected to the main characters and wish we could have seen more depth from them. While the plot was slow in the beginning, things picked up more in the second half. I especially liked following Kate's journey of self-discovery and working towards growing her confidence. Since Reasonable Adults was written by a Canadian author there were a ton of fun Canadian references that I liked as well! Plus I can never resist a fictional dog companion!
I enjoyed the premise and thought this story had a lot of potential, unfortunately, a few elements needed fine-tuning.
I was sent an ARC copy of this book by HarperCollins Canada in exchange for an honest review.
I've also posted this review on Instagram and my blog.
Instagram Post
Blog Post
Content Warnings: toxic relationship, attempted sexual assault, death of a parent (past), cancer (past, mentioned)
What intrigued me from the beginning was the beautiful nature setting! It felt very immersive and I could easily picture Kate and Eric running around in the snowy forest. The concept of a luxury artist retreat was also exciting and I enjoyed learning more about the guests and their different forms of art. Each side character had their own story and past, which was fun to read about. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel very connected to the main characters and wish we could have seen more depth from them. While the plot was slow in the beginning, things picked up more in the second half. I especially liked following Kate's journey of self-discovery and working towards growing her confidence. Since Reasonable Adults was written by a Canadian author there were a ton of fun Canadian references that I liked as well! Plus I can never resist a fictional dog companion!
I enjoyed the premise and thought this story had a lot of potential, unfortunately, a few elements needed fine-tuning.
December 31, 2022
3.75/5 I thought this book was so cute. It takes place in Ontario which was nice and the setting was perfect for Christmas. I hated Chaz (the MCs ex) like he really reminded me that men can be so trashy. Also the dynamic between Kate and Matt seemed weird like i get that they’re the love interests but the fact that she’ll say things and he ignores her completely or teases her to no end just wasn’t for me. Such a cute story though ☺️😋
Read
October 29, 2023
Trigger & Content Warnings
Sexual assault, on-page
Sexual assault, on-page
June 4, 2024
Title:
Reasonable Adults
Author: Robin Lefler
Genre: Romance
Rating: 3.25
Pub Date: December 22, 2022
I received a complimentary eARC from HarperCollins Canada via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #Gifted
T H R E E • W O R D S
Lighthearted • Feel-good • Predictable
📖 S Y N O P S I S
The morning after a humiliating post-breakup social media post (#sponsoredbywine), Kate Rigsby learns she's lost her marketing job along with her almost-fiancé. Worse, she realizes how little she truly cared about either. Craving a reset, Kate flees the big-city life she spent many years building—and almost as many doubting—to take a temporary gig at Treetops, a swanky, off-the-grid creative retreat in Muskoka, complete with meditation circles, deluxe spa, and artisanal cocktails. At least, that's what the brochure promises . . .
The reality is a struggling resort that's stuck in the 1990s, fax machine included. Kate's office is a bunker, her boss is a nightmare, and at night she shares a freezing hut with her seventy-pound Goldendoodle. Then there's the sexy, off-limits coworker whose easy smile and lumberjack forearms are distracting Kate from the already near-impossible task of making this snowbound oasis profitable.
On the upside, the surroundings are breathtaking. The Treetops crew is quirky and (mostly) kind. And somehow, Kate's starting to feel new enthusiasm for her career—and her life. In fact, she's daring to challenge herself in ways she never dreamed of before.
💭 T H O U G H T S
Reasonable Adults came onto my radar when I was researching Canadian releases for 2023 and this one sounded like it something I would enjoy. It has taken me more than long enough to get to, but it was the a good choice to listen to while I worked.
With a cast of good characters, a idyllic rustic setting, and a furry friend, this debut novel is about self-discovery and found family. At time it's a little over the top with the drama, so will require some suspension of belief.
Reasonable Adults is a middle-of-the-road novel. While it didn't offer any groundbreaking new ideas and won't be making my top of the year lists, I did enjoy listening to it while I worked. I will definitely be checking out Robin Lefler's recent release Not How I Pictured It.
📚 R E A D • I F • Y O U • L I K E
• life at-a-crossroads stories
• Hallmark movies
• furry companions
⚠️ CW: toxic relationship, infidelity, sexual assault, sexual harassment, alcohol, sexual content, death, death of parent
Author: Robin Lefler
Genre: Romance
Rating: 3.25
Pub Date: December 22, 2022
I received a complimentary eARC from HarperCollins Canada via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #Gifted
T H R E E • W O R D S
Lighthearted • Feel-good • Predictable
📖 S Y N O P S I S
The morning after a humiliating post-breakup social media post (#sponsoredbywine), Kate Rigsby learns she's lost her marketing job along with her almost-fiancé. Worse, she realizes how little she truly cared about either. Craving a reset, Kate flees the big-city life she spent many years building—and almost as many doubting—to take a temporary gig at Treetops, a swanky, off-the-grid creative retreat in Muskoka, complete with meditation circles, deluxe spa, and artisanal cocktails. At least, that's what the brochure promises . . .
The reality is a struggling resort that's stuck in the 1990s, fax machine included. Kate's office is a bunker, her boss is a nightmare, and at night she shares a freezing hut with her seventy-pound Goldendoodle. Then there's the sexy, off-limits coworker whose easy smile and lumberjack forearms are distracting Kate from the already near-impossible task of making this snowbound oasis profitable.
On the upside, the surroundings are breathtaking. The Treetops crew is quirky and (mostly) kind. And somehow, Kate's starting to feel new enthusiasm for her career—and her life. In fact, she's daring to challenge herself in ways she never dreamed of before.
💭 T H O U G H T S
Reasonable Adults came onto my radar when I was researching Canadian releases for 2023 and this one sounded like it something I would enjoy. It has taken me more than long enough to get to, but it was the a good choice to listen to while I worked.
With a cast of good characters, a idyllic rustic setting, and a furry friend, this debut novel is about self-discovery and found family. At time it's a little over the top with the drama, so will require some suspension of belief.
Reasonable Adults is a middle-of-the-road novel. While it didn't offer any groundbreaking new ideas and won't be making my top of the year lists, I did enjoy listening to it while I worked. I will definitely be checking out Robin Lefler's recent release Not How I Pictured It.
📚 R E A D • I F • Y O U • L I K E
• life at-a-crossroads stories
• Hallmark movies
• furry companions
⚠️ CW: toxic relationship, infidelity, sexual assault, sexual harassment, alcohol, sexual content, death, death of parent
December 14, 2022
I really enjoyed this part women's fiction/part romance story from a new Canadian author! Set in the Muskokas at a struggling Resort slash Corporate Retreat, newly single and newly fired Kate finds herself discovering a new purpose and group of friends as she helps them turn around the business despite a number of obstacles.
Recommended if you enjoy funny, heartfelt stories with found family, a great cast of secondary characters, cute dog sidekicks and a good low steam friends to lovers, coworker romance. I loved the Canadian setting and the wintery vibes in this feel-good debut.
Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. I switched between the print and audio versions and enjoyed both thanks to Hoopla and the narration skills of Vanessa Johansson.
Steam level: closed door/fade to black
Recommended if you enjoy funny, heartfelt stories with found family, a great cast of secondary characters, cute dog sidekicks and a good low steam friends to lovers, coworker romance. I loved the Canadian setting and the wintery vibes in this feel-good debut.
Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review. I switched between the print and audio versions and enjoyed both thanks to Hoopla and the narration skills of Vanessa Johansson.
Steam level: closed door/fade to black
December 22, 2023
Rom coms are not my usual go to, but I thought this sounded interesting. I love that it took place in Canada. I don’t understand some of the poor ratings. It was funny and written well for this genre. It wasn’t filled with all the typical cliches either.
There were a few little things that were a bit far fetched, but I still thought it worked okay and came together well.
There were a few little things that were a bit far fetched, but I still thought it worked okay and came together well.
January 25, 2025
Kate is at a crossroad in her life. She is thirty something, newly single, newly unemployed, and highly unmotivated. She takes a risk on life and applies for a marketing job at an exclusive artist retreat in the wilderness. Treetops is supposed to be for the most elite and creative group, but with little desire to change into the new era of the world it is doomed to fail. With a nightmare boss, Kate is trying to make this place worthy of a five star review and some trendy instagram posts. Insert some interesting coworkers… yes including the hot man with the lumberjack arms. He is OFF LIMITS Kate… or is he? With things looking up on the horizon, Kate is finding a newfound passion in her career and her quirky friendships she’s formed the past few months. But nothing in Kate’s professional or personal life has ever been easy, and she’ll have to fight for this new era of herself if she wants it.
December 21, 2025
The ending pulled this book up a bit but overall not for me - the corporate hashtag speech felt too serious to be satirically funny, and the number of terrible characters outweighed the number of characters I liked/could root for, which isn’t what I was hoping for in a light festive read.
February 16, 2023
Maybe it just wasn't for me because of timing but it took so long for me to get through
October 19, 2023
Kate Rigsby loses her marketing job and her fiancé and now needs to regroup. She accepts a temporary job that she thinks will be well paying at an out of the way retreat in Muskoka, Canada. Taking her golden-doodle Eric she finds the reality is the resort is very outdated. And her high salary is contingent on meeting hard to attain goals of occupancy. The lake setting sounds beautiful even if the resort isn’t. Kate meets coworker Matt Reid, who has attractive forearms. I don’t want to be shallow but I didn’t get the spark between them. I thought the story works better having Kate grown in confidence in herself and abilities. There is a lot of time spent on co-workers and guests and getting their stories. There is an unwanted and interrupted grabbing and kissing. The aftermath isn't handled well. You don’t have the victim be blamed or apologize for the reaction of others. The rest of the story is lighter and predictable. This is a likable debut novel with a few rough edges. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
November 7, 2023
3.75/5
This would be a great holiday read but it doesn't need to be! I read it in the fall and I found it to be such a cozy escape from the real world. The character development is really great, especially for the supporting characters. I also absolutely loved the setting. Treetops is really a character of its own in this story. I would go visit it if it were revealed to be a real place.
If you are having a difficult time at your job in real life, or maybe your boss is too demanding...give this a read and see if maybe you come away thinking oh... it could be a lot worse couldn't it? lol
I'm very thankful to Kensington Books for access to this title on NetGalley.
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Genre: Relationship fiction; Canadian fiction
Themes: Brand new you; Workplace romance
Storyline: Character-driven
Pace: Fast-paced
Tone: Strong sense of place; Heartwarming; Upbeat
Writing Style: Engaging
This would be a great holiday read but it doesn't need to be! I read it in the fall and I found it to be such a cozy escape from the real world. The character development is really great, especially for the supporting characters. I also absolutely loved the setting. Treetops is really a character of its own in this story. I would go visit it if it were revealed to be a real place.
If you are having a difficult time at your job in real life, or maybe your boss is too demanding...give this a read and see if maybe you come away thinking oh... it could be a lot worse couldn't it? lol
I'm very thankful to Kensington Books for access to this title on NetGalley.
----
Genre: Relationship fiction; Canadian fiction
Themes: Brand new you; Workplace romance
Storyline: Character-driven
Pace: Fast-paced
Tone: Strong sense of place; Heartwarming; Upbeat
Writing Style: Engaging
December 30, 2022
I love reading debut novels that check all the boxes I’m looking for in an entertaining read and Reasonable Adults does just that. I love the strength of the protagonist despite the many obstacles she faces while trying to restart her adult life.
When Kate loses her job after calling out her cheating boyfriend on social media, she begins a new job at a retreat in Muskoka. I loved that this book is set in Canada. For those readers who have seen the mini-series Nine Perfect Strangers this retreat is very reminiscent of the setting. For those of you who have not, think quirky, artsy and wholistic.
The situation that Kate is put into with this new position is something I wouldn’t wish upon an enemy. The office and living quarters are closet-like and non-hospitable. The author does a great job of describing the setting – the good and the bad.
Kate is an interesting and well-developed character. I enjoyed her way of looking at life and her wonderful sense of humour. The slow build of the romance in the book was fun to read and I loved their time together exploring the area around the retreat. Kate’s dog Eric was a fun addition to the story and his charming ways stole my heart.
I recommend Reasonable Adults to those readers who enjoy General Fiction with a touch of romance. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
I received a DRC of this book from the publisher by the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
When Kate loses her job after calling out her cheating boyfriend on social media, she begins a new job at a retreat in Muskoka. I loved that this book is set in Canada. For those readers who have seen the mini-series Nine Perfect Strangers this retreat is very reminiscent of the setting. For those of you who have not, think quirky, artsy and wholistic.
The situation that Kate is put into with this new position is something I wouldn’t wish upon an enemy. The office and living quarters are closet-like and non-hospitable. The author does a great job of describing the setting – the good and the bad.
Kate is an interesting and well-developed character. I enjoyed her way of looking at life and her wonderful sense of humour. The slow build of the romance in the book was fun to read and I loved their time together exploring the area around the retreat. Kate’s dog Eric was a fun addition to the story and his charming ways stole my heart.
I recommend Reasonable Adults to those readers who enjoy General Fiction with a touch of romance. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
I received a DRC of this book from the publisher by the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
June 13, 2023
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to review the book!
Kate Rigsby is a 31 year old woman who has had major upheavals in her life. After loosing her job, and becoming single in a short amount of time, Kate and her dog pal Eric embark on a new journey in Ontario, where Kate begins a new job at an 'artist's retreat'. Think of a bougie winter camp for adults. However, when she arrives, things are not as it seems and she begins to struggle to keep her head above water.
I loved this book! Full of scenery, friendships, humour, self-discovery and slow burn romance, this book has been a highlight read for me this year. Although the first quarter of the book seemed to drag on, I felt it picked up pace once the setting changed to Ontario. The heart of book got me and from there I devoured it.
The characters were extremely likeable (and unlikeable in some cases) and I was happy we got to see deep character development throughout the book. I felt like each and every one of the characters were important and they had just as much merit as the protagonist. Normally, I find it hard to juggle depth of multiple characters, but for this book it just worked. I also loved the personality Eric, Kate's dog, had. He was a needed addition to the plot!
This is definitely one of my favourite reads of the year so far and it snuck up on me quite quickly.
I highly recommend!
Kate Rigsby is a 31 year old woman who has had major upheavals in her life. After loosing her job, and becoming single in a short amount of time, Kate and her dog pal Eric embark on a new journey in Ontario, where Kate begins a new job at an 'artist's retreat'. Think of a bougie winter camp for adults. However, when she arrives, things are not as it seems and she begins to struggle to keep her head above water.
I loved this book! Full of scenery, friendships, humour, self-discovery and slow burn romance, this book has been a highlight read for me this year. Although the first quarter of the book seemed to drag on, I felt it picked up pace once the setting changed to Ontario. The heart of book got me and from there I devoured it.
The characters were extremely likeable (and unlikeable in some cases) and I was happy we got to see deep character development throughout the book. I felt like each and every one of the characters were important and they had just as much merit as the protagonist. Normally, I find it hard to juggle depth of multiple characters, but for this book it just worked. I also loved the personality Eric, Kate's dog, had. He was a needed addition to the plot!
This is definitely one of my favourite reads of the year so far and it snuck up on me quite quickly.
I highly recommend!
October 28, 2023
When Kate Rigsby loses her job she’s at loose ends, but then an opportunity for a new job presents itself and Kate jumps at the chance. Leaving behind the city and heading out to a creative retreat to take a new job is exactly what she needs. Kate is stepping outside of her comfort zone, but has high hopes this is exactly what she needs.
I have very mixed feelings about this book. Half of the time I didn’t even know what I was reading and I couldn’t follow the storyline that seemed scattered to me. I didn’t really connect with Kate at all, but I really enjoyed some of the other characters at Treetops. This book did not pull me in at all and I found the romance in the storyline to be lacking in any kind of chemistry or heat. I felt like I kept cringing as I read this book, unable to believe some of the things that happened and the way Kate handled them. I hate writing bad reviews because I know the author worked hard on this and this story is important at to them, but I didn’t connect to it at all and found myself rushing to finish the book so I could put it behind me. Just because this book wasn’t for me, doesn’t mean that it isn’t for you.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book!
I have very mixed feelings about this book. Half of the time I didn’t even know what I was reading and I couldn’t follow the storyline that seemed scattered to me. I didn’t really connect with Kate at all, but I really enjoyed some of the other characters at Treetops. This book did not pull me in at all and I found the romance in the storyline to be lacking in any kind of chemistry or heat. I felt like I kept cringing as I read this book, unable to believe some of the things that happened and the way Kate handled them. I hate writing bad reviews because I know the author worked hard on this and this story is important at to them, but I didn’t connect to it at all and found myself rushing to finish the book so I could put it behind me. Just because this book wasn’t for me, doesn’t mean that it isn’t for you.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book!
August 27, 2022
4.5!!! Thank you so much for the chance to read this, it was incredible.
I always write a 1-2 sentence review in my notebook before I actually do my netgalley reviews, and I feel like this one describes my feelings very well:
"YEP THIS SLAPPED. The work successes? The drive to find meaning in work? The DOGS? Obsessed."
To elaborate, Kate is 32 and makes some drunken mistakes that get her fired. The benefit is that she doesn't care about her job, and through a series of coincidences ends up working for a fancy retreat in Ontario.
The wintry vibes were amazing, I loved the setting and it felt very Canadian in the same way Every Summer After did. Her love interest was also amazing, very dimensional and THE WAY HE SUPPORTS HER? Wow.
And just a reminder - there are two dogs in this story, and I would die for each of them!!!!!!
I always write a 1-2 sentence review in my notebook before I actually do my netgalley reviews, and I feel like this one describes my feelings very well:
"YEP THIS SLAPPED. The work successes? The drive to find meaning in work? The DOGS? Obsessed."
To elaborate, Kate is 32 and makes some drunken mistakes that get her fired. The benefit is that she doesn't care about her job, and through a series of coincidences ends up working for a fancy retreat in Ontario.
The wintry vibes were amazing, I loved the setting and it felt very Canadian in the same way Every Summer After did. Her love interest was also amazing, very dimensional and THE WAY HE SUPPORTS HER? Wow.
And just a reminder - there are two dogs in this story, and I would die for each of them!!!!!!
January 18, 2023
TW/SA. I don’t usually write reviews like this but this was honestly one of the worst books I have ever read. I’m struggling to understand how this was ever published. Nothing in this book feels remotely real, not even the dogs. But I decided to leave a review the moment the almost SA scene happens. It blew my mind that the main character was almost assaulted out of nowhere then the main love interest victim blames her, then for the remainder of the book he remains the main love interest with the main character even apologizing to him for how she handled the situation. I’ve seen others criticize this portion of the book as well, I hope the author takes the time to realize how messed up and wrong what she wrote is. If I could give this book negative stars I would. Lastly my thoughts go out to the trees that were unnecessary murdered for the publishing of this book.
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July 25, 2023tw: attempted sexual assault and victim blaming
Sometimes I’m conflicted about skimming a book’s Goodreads reviews before actually reading it. But yea, if I’d known in advance about this novel’s third act ‘twist’, I would definitely have steered clear and left this book on my library’s display shelf.
The protagonist’s ex attempts to assault her, but her dog + love interest intervene. Only for her love interest to turn around and accuse her of infidelity and dishonesty?! The inclusion of this scene as some benign, conflict-provoking plot point actually makes me livid.
Sometimes I’m conflicted about skimming a book’s Goodreads reviews before actually reading it. But yea, if I’d known in advance about this novel’s third act ‘twist’, I would definitely have steered clear and left this book on my library’s display shelf.
The protagonist’s ex attempts to assault her, but her dog + love interest intervene. Only for her love interest to turn around and accuse her of infidelity and dishonesty?! The inclusion of this scene as some benign, conflict-provoking plot point actually makes me livid.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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