Lark Lake Lodge

by Maggie Eliot

Note to self: when attempting to reboot your life by selling everything you have, cashing in your 401k and moving across the state to refurbish a massive, old inn, it might be good to check place out first. Lark Lake Lodge was the only thing I ever got out of my dumpster fire of a marriage to my selfish, lying ex. And okay, maybe I daydreamed a bit too much about a charming hideaway that merely needed a good cleaning and some throw pillows. Instead, I got a post-apocalyptic refuge for inhospitable creatures. And don’t get me started about the broken windows, bug infestation, and actual trees growing indoors.

But the most unexpected thing I found upon arrival was Harlan. My woodsy, taciturn, bookish, hot dad neighbor was always at the ready to help me when I needed it. On one hand, the side of me wanting to be an independent badass bitch was reluctant to take his help. On the other, he was really handy, and I was in a constant state of jelly-legged, red cheeked, crush energy when he was around.

While my new home near Saugatuck, Michigan was picturesque, and the adorable Bassett hounds Harlan bred stole my heart, I quickly learned that a relationship with two people who’ve been destroyed by uncaring exes can turn into a roller coaster ride of complications.

If you enjoy a small town romance with forced proximity, a strong female main character, cute dogs, a cinnamon roll male main character (with occasional bossy moments), top notch banter, and tons of humor in a tropey renovation setting, check out this laugh-out-loud romcom.

This standalone romance won the Put Your Heart in a Book award from the New Jersey Romance Writers and the Maggie Award from the Georgia Romance Writers. Don't miss out on this great read from award winning comedian, author, and playwright, Maggie Eliot.

307 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 12, 2024

About the author

After spending 25 years performing, writing, teaching, and founding programs in improv and sketch comedy, Maggie Eliot turned her creative attention toward writing what she loves to read—romance. With a BFA in acting and a decade of playwriting, Maggie brings a wide variety of experience to her passion for writing RomComs with spice and laughs. She’s a proud member of the Greater Detroit Romance Writers. She won a Wilde Award (Detroit theatre awards) for best new script in 2013, and her standalone romance Lark Lake Lodge won the unpublished contemporary category for both the Put Your Heart in a Book contest for New Jersey Romance writers and the Maggie Award from the Georgia Romance Writers. In 2021 she was selected as a mentee in RWA’s RAMP program, having the great fortune to work closely with her mentor, New York Times best seller Annika Martin. Maggie’s debut novel Humor Me is the first in the Detroiters In Love series.

Reviews

[Ashley’s Book Nooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book for my honest review and now I’m on my way to read the rest of Maggie Eliot’s books.

The storyline while deeply emotional with several waves of happiness and sadness, was such a thrilling take on someone who has to restart their life after an unfortunate event and it shows that it’s not always easy but it can be done.

The characters were likeable but real enough where you could disagree with what they did sometimes and you were rooting for a happy ending without actually knowing if it happened or not.

The writing style is extremely easy to get lost in and I often had to go back and read a paragraph because I ended up daydreaming creating a movie in my head of the story.

Also, the pups were adorable characters and want to give them lots of pets and belly rubs.

This book is a must read for any romance lovers and is sure to win your heart like it has for me ❤️

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book....

To start off, I received an advance copy of this book and am leaving an honest review. This is my first review and what a book to start with.

I've never connected with a main female character so fully or quickly. Maisie was so wonderfully portrayed, her flaws were so real and easy to sympathize with. Her connection with Harlan was so enjoyable to read. Her attempt for new independence was something I've read too often but here it didn't feel so cheesy or forced.

And Harlan....gimme one of him!!!! A reader and woodsy, caring man?! He took care of Maisie but called her out for her triggered responses at the same time. He had his own traumas but they just made the relationship that much more appealing to witness the evolution.

The pacing was well done and there was a natural flow to the entire book that felt like real life, I got sucked in so quickly.

When this book gets officially published, I'll be ordering a paperback copy to add to my book dragon hoard. Absolutely recommend this book to everyone. Love it!

[Anne Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given an ARC copy of Lark Lake Lodge and this is my honest review. The character of Harlan is immediately appealing though I enjoyed that the author gave him some realistic flaws to take the edge off his near-perfectness. He reads like such a catch but I think you can understand why some women would not fit with his lifestyle, which is why I think the interactions with Maisie feel more grounded. It honestly took me a bit longer to warm up to Maisie but I appreciated her the more I saw her in different situations. I particularly liked her interactions with her family, which I thought added real depth to the book. Some of my favorite parts of the book are where Maisie has some self realizations and really takes into consideration what other characters tell her about herself. She shows critical thinking, which sadly is lacking in some romance books, so I really applaud Ms. Eliot for showing Maisie with that growth. One of my favorite things about this author is the strength of her side characters. In this book and her book Humor Me, she made the surrounding characters as much fun to get to know as the main characters. I won't say too much to not give things away, but I could read a whole backstory and novel on just Simon and Michael.

[Dionne Scorgie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Maggie for an ARC copy of Lark Lake Lodge 🥰
I absolutely adored this book.
After delving into other genres i can forget how much i love a good romance read! Wholesome and heart warming & funny! I could picture it playing out like a romcom in my head.
Small town romance with a handsome neighbour (with cute dogs 🐕) what more could you want?

This was such an enjoyable read and releases on November 12th. Romance girlies this one's for you 💓

[Kim Duchene · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of the book and I’m so glad I did! From the very first page, Lark Lake Lodge hooked me with its heartfelt narrative and engaging characters. The author weaves a story that balances emotional depth with just the right amount of spice. I found myself invested in their journeys. By the end, I was left wanting more— for a glimpse into their future.
I can’t recommend it highly enough for anyone looking to be swept away in a story that lingers long after the last page, I’ll be reading more Maggie Eliot!

[Ashlynn Faulkner · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review!! ✨⭐️🌟💫

I ate this one up!!! Recently divorced looking for independence, finds not only her independence but a hot single dad with adorable dogs?!?! Perfection!!!! If you’re a romance reader this one HAS to be on your list!! 🐶🐾🏚️💗

Special thanks to the author and their team for this ARC! 🤩

4.5/5 ⭐️

[Cayla Pilcher · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am so grateful to have received an early copy of this book!
I loved Harlan from the get go, something about his grumpiness and being so closed off from everyone in the town intrigued me. Man was GRUMPY (I loved it)!!! Enter Maisie... I was so so on her to start with but once she opened up I had real sympathy for her and her past.
Both main characters actually had interesting backstories to how their lives ended up the way they did, I really enjoyed when those were discussed.

I have to be honest, I struggled to feel any chemistry between Maisie and Harlan for a long time which then made it harder for me to get into the book but I loved the subtle back and forth flirting at the start. Definitely once they both opened up to each other I was like yip I see the match now!
They each did/said things towards the end that I was like ok you are just annoying me now, sort it out please 😂

I liked the humor in this book and the fact they were just everyday folk with real life problems, nothing was ‘glamorised’. The doggos were the perfect extra touch! I also thought Harlan’s teenage daughter Shannon was a great addition, I would have loved to seen more of her!

🧡🩵

[jess land · Rating 5 out of 5]

we're doing small town, renovating an inn, neighbour, single dad, introverted book lover male main character, rom-com (and more) if that's cool with you guys

SO FUN! i now love maggie eliot. i am seated for all further releases. thank you for letting me be a part of the arc team! releases on 12th november!

[Julia Heart]

This book was an absolute delight—equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and deeply relatable. I laughed out loud more times than I could count, especially at the heroine’s brutally honest inner dialogue and her wildly unfiltered observations about the chaos that is Lark Lake Lodge. Watching her dive headfirst into a renovation nightmare armed with nothing but grit, sarcasm, and maybe too many throw pillows was both funny and inspiring. The emotional depth snuck up on me too, especially as she started to confront the pain of her past and carve out a future she actually wanted.

And then there’s Harlan. Oh, Harlan. The quiet, bookish, cinnamon roll of a neighbor who shows up with tools, Basset hounds, and the kind of patience that makes you melt. Their chemistry had just the right amount of slow burn, awkward tension, and swoony moments to keep me totally hooked. The banter was sharp, the setting was cozy and chaotic, and the emotional journey was surprisingly profound. I loved every messy, hilarious, tender moment of this story—it’s the kind of romcom that leaves you grinning like an idiot and wishing you could move into the lodge next door.

[graces cozy corner · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you’re in the mood for a second-chance romance where the dogs totally steal the spotlight, this might just be your next read!

Maisie, fresh from a divorce, jumps headfirst into a whirlwind romance with Harlan… maybe a little too fast? After dating her for just one weekend, Harlan’s already dreaming of babies, and his month-later proposal had me thinking they both might need therapy more than they need a ring.

And honestly, thank goodness for Rob’s therapy journey—he was as delusional and narcissistic as they come. Meanwhile, Maisie’s mother is just the worst, with her baffling loyalty to Rob. Thankfully, Brian and Patty were the real MVPs, bringing much-needed positivity to Maisie’s life.

Maisie sure does open up fast, though—spilling her life story to Michael and Simon (even though they’re technically rivals). It felt a little too easy and made me wonder if she should slow down just a tad. Though by the end, I’m completely sold on the friendship 💙

The pacing stumbles a bit with a sudden four-month time jump, and the insta-makeup scene felt a little too convenient. But Rob getting to witness Maisie and Harlan’s big reconciliation? Gold.

And the spice? There’s only a couple of scenes, but they’re worth it. 🌶️🌶️
(Would I have liked one more at the end? Definitely!)

One thing I loved: the characters are actual adults handling real-life issues, and the diversity and representation are woven in naturally. Watching Harlan and Maisie redefine their relationship without falling into the usual men-vs-women roles was refreshing and made their partnership feel more authentic.

Overall, Lark Lake Lodge is a charming, messy, and fun escape with just enough spice and enough adorable family moments to keep you hooked. Just beware of some head-scratching “fights” and plot twists that might leave you doing a double-take. And can anyone tell me if Shannon won the Joni Mitchell contest? 👀

[Hannah Fuller · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌲🪵ARC REVIEW🌲🪵
Lark Lake Lodge is nothing short of a WOW 🤯 factor read!! 👏🏼😍 I really didn’t want it to be over, it was like a real life movie playing in my head. It was an emotional, exciting, fun, tearjerker, romantic, funny, sexy, smutty book that I am so glad I got the chance to read and review! ❤️‍🔥

🌟10000/5 🌶️ 5/5

First of all let me start by saying that I never really pictured myself at 22 years old, being attracted to an older man… but Harlan proved me WRONG 🤤😅🤪

This book has all the best tropes, and little things that make us romance readers, and smut lovers tick. And can we just talk about the adorable dogs!😩 They had me wanting to scratch their floppy ears 🥰😍

After leaving a crappy marriage with a self centered husband, who kept multiple secrets from her especially a big one that immensely affected her, and her ability to get pregnant, Maisie is ready for a fresh start. For starters, she will need to renovate the Inn she was left by her ex’s Uncle Randy. What she wasn’t expecting is the Inn to require way more work and money than she bargained for, or to have a thing for the smoking hot man that lives next door.
Right from the moment she steps on the front porch, she starts to regret her decision until Harlan shows up and offers her some help.

Harlan, being the cinnamon roll that he is, didn’t hesitate to offer her hospitality once they realize that the Inn is inhabitable, considering all of the work that needs to be done. Maisie being the stubborn, strong willed woman that she is, refuses his hospitality after promising herself she’d be independent after the years of being controlled and treated poorly. While the characters were very relatable, I did have a few moments where I was a little annoyed, especially by Maisie. They both had a lot of similarities because of their damaged pasts, but Harlan clearly would’ve done anything for her and Maisie was having a hard time accepting it.

The story will leave you thrilled and guessing how it will all play out. There was a lot of back and forth and second guessing but overall it was a totally epic love story.
The development of the characters and the renovating of the Inn was really interesting to watch unfold.

Let’s just say DO NOT miss out on this incredible book! ❤️‍🔥
I will definitely be reading more from this author!

Thank you Maggie for the opportunity to read and review your amazing work! 🥰❤️

[Joanne Love · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a rollercoaster ride! I was invested in the relationship between Maisie and Harlan from the start and this story made me laugh, smile, almost cry and nearly throw it across the room!

Maisie is a very loveable character and I could easily relate to a lot of her emotions and choices. The struggle is real for us romance loving feminists! But Maisie eventually made the decisions that were right for her, despite the infuriating men in her life.

Harlan, the quite, strong type who reads extensively and just 'gets it' can only be a man written by a woman, but I loved him all the same! I saw Luke from Gilmore Girls the entire time I was reading this.

I also really enjoyed the side characters in this story - Roger and Ralph the dogs were such a cute addition and Micheal and Simon definitely exceeded my expectations from Simon's first entrance. I hate Rob though, and I think that is a testament to the great writing in this book!

The idyllic setting of Lark Lake Lodge was fully realised by Eliot and I could fully see and almost experience the beauty of the woods while I was reading. I love it when I am fully immersed in the setting and the story and both are imprinted into my mind even after finishing the book.

My favourite thing about this book though is the journey it takes you on. It seems that the happy ending comes early, but without spoilers, hold on to your hats my friend as Maisie needs to go on a ride to find her perfect ending. There are a few tropes that are not usually my faves ( I'm not going to share as they will be major spoilers) but they were used appropriately and really made the story special.

I highly recommend Lark Lake Lodge for a cozy romance that rips your heart out but gives you the HEA you are craving!

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lark Lake Lodge is a witty second chance at love that you can’t help rooting for.
Maggie Eliot is about to introduce you to your next book boyfriend so I hope you’re ready to side eye your partner and mutter things like, “Harlan would NEVER…”
This book starts off feeling very Hallmark when a recent divorcée bites off more than she can chew trying to renovate a lakeside lodge she claimed in the settlement. She gets there and she’s overwhelmed by the amount of work the place needs and starts having a well deserved menty B on the patio when her new incredibly hot neighbor arrives with his adorable dogs in tow. Harlan offers his assistance in the renovations and before long our FMC, Maisie, is reluctantly embarking on a whirlwind romance with the hot hermit next door. At one point she refers to him as looking like the Brawny Paper Towel guy and I legit laughed out loud because that was the exact mental picture she painted. Harlan is a babe. Avid reader, covered in tattoos from his favorite books, generous lover AND HE BREEDS BASSETT HOUNDS. So, because she’s the FMC Maisie is naturally kind of an idiot and needs to invent conflict. The miscommunication trope is constant throughout and I honestly felt like her new bestie Simon because please ma’am get your head out of your posterior and LOOK AT THAT MAN. Some of the tropes weren’t my favorite and I don’t want to list them because it would spoil some plot points but overall this is a super well done contemporary romance. Give this a read if you like single dads, second chance love, lake house vibes or dogs because it serves on all of that. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️

[Kaitlyn Marcus · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟💫 Read
ARC review
Lark Lake Lodge by Maggie Elliot
Contemporary romance

This book....I have so much to say about this book but ultimately let's start with the fact that unlike most books I'm going to rate this both subjectively and objectively.

From an objective POV:
This book is a 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Read. It's well written. There is a great plot. It's easy to read. Some of the content may be triggering to some people (so please do your research), but I can't really fault anything about the writing and I truly did really enjoy the book on the whole.

Subjectively (and there are slight spoilers from here, you've been warned):
I hated the MMC. He was controlling. He was manipulative. He made the FMC feel terrible about herself. I know some people are strictly there for the plot but his behavior in the last half of the book made me extremely angry and I found myself pushing through the book for the plot but becoming more enraged by him by the chapter. (Possibly triggered as reminds me of someone I no longer keep in my life👀).
Because of this, it lost stars for me and I would probably put it at a 🌟🌟💫 but because I do think the writing is well developed, the plot is there, etc, I don't think it's fair to say it's just a bad book and have decided to really sit and think about it from both angles.

Please leave any questions you have below as I know this might be very confusing 😅


Closed door modifications:
Ch 14
Ch 19
(A few pages here and there as well)

If you like:
❤️Small town
❤️Forced proximity
❤️Single dad

And you've also read:
📖Wild Love
📖Finding Forever
📖Will They or Won't They

[Lindsay Seigel · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars - rounding up to 4

I received an advanced reader copy of this book for my honest review.

Lark Lake Lodge is a cute romcom based in Northern Michigan. Maisie is fresh off a tough divorce from a relationship that destroyed her self-worth and trust over a number of years and finds herself with a more than rundown lodge. Harlan, is the rugged next door neighbor that keeps to himself and enjoys his quiet little sanctuary, until Maisie shows up. While Maisie is realizing that she has bitten off more than can she chew with rehabbing the lodge; Harlan is making every effort to help her but still keep his personal history to himself while also trying to keep Maisie closer.

I thought the book and story moved at a fast pace. I enjoyed that Maisie and Harlan realized almost immediately that there was something between them. I did, however, have a hard time connecting with the characters, both Maisie and Harlan. I understand why Maisie reacted how she did to all of the big realizations from Harlan but I didn’t fully agree with how she reacted. Harlan’s character was harder for me to like because of his personality and his strong need for things being his way.

Being from Michigan myself, I loved that this book was based in Northern Michigan, in Saugatuck. Especially after I just spent a weekend there camping. I’m a softie for pets, so Harlan breeding Bassett Hound pups and his two dogs being very active in the story was a fun add. Anyone that is looking for an easy to read romcom, without the slow burn, definitely should check out Lark Lake Lodge.

[Lauren Curley · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 Stars
🌶 - Spice Level

Harlan and Maisie meet when she arrives at Lark Lake Lodge with a dream to renovate the Inn she won in her divorce. She didn't realize how bad off the place was and over her head in repairs. Harlan is the next-door neighbor who has been checking on the Inn after the previous owner died and left the Inn to her and her ex-husband. Harlan is the more silent, set in his simple ways kind of guy who even has no cellphone. Maisie is jumping into with all hands on deck to attempt this renovation until she's grumbling under the weight of it all.

Harlan was this silent force right by her as he slowly was falling for Maisie. Maisie is still a mess over the divorce as she loses herself somewhere along the line after her ex-husband lies about being infertile and blaming her. Harlan and Maisie do have a suprise/oopsie baby to care for, so there's still some push and pull until they straighten this out between them. I loved it when they finally came together, and the epilogue just was the bow on top of the present.

Now, the ex-husband, the author definitely described the master manipulator to a T, and I didn't like him at all (BRAVO, you did the job!).

Absolutely recommend this for a redemption story for both Maisie and Harlan, even with all the angsty strife in this small town romance.

Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: November 12, 2024

[Vicky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoughts: This was a fun story about two people who couldn’t be more different who finally come together in a HEA that satisfies. (Okay, come on, this is a romance. I’m not giving anything away here.) Harlan is a backwoods loner who runs a kennel and is known as a hermit in the small town where he lives. Maisie is a newly divorced woman who got control of an aging lodge she got in the divorce. Ready to start over and stand on her own, she ends up sitting on the steps of the dilapidated lodge with a broken key and crying. Then Harlan shows up. While he could easily solve all her problems, she is determined to be an independent woman and ends up sleeping in her truck rather than his guest room. The lodge is full of trees, wild animals, broken windows, and bad plumbing. Harlan and Maisie hit it off eventually, but there are a lot of problems, distrust, and arguments before they finally get their HEA. (Note: there are quite a few hot, lusty scenes).

The characters are realistic and interesting, though I did just want to grab Maisie and shake her sometimes. The descriptions of the lodge are disgustingly fun – ugh! I’m surprised she didn’t run from that! But overall, a decent romantic story about two broken people starting over and finding love the second time around. Well done.

Recommended.

Disclaimer: I was given this book in hopes of doing a review, but not required. All thoughts and opinions are mine alone and not influenced or solicited by anyone.

[Theresse (Tess) Gregory · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stars: 3.5/5 (Rounded up)
Spice: 1/5

Eliot combines realistic characters with a charming romance to create this enjoyable read. Both Harlan and Maisie feel authentic; while Maisie often swoons over Harlan’s perfection, his flaws and insecurities ground him. I loved Harlan almost immediately, despite his bossiness, but it took longer to connect with Maisie. At first, her logic was confusing, but her backstory clarified most things. I found her inner struggle between feminist ideals and the desire to succumb to traditional roles quite amusing. My main issues were the seemingly one-sided chemistry in Harlan and Maisie’s relationship and the subplot involving Maisie’s ex, Rob, and Harlan. I wanted Harlan’s POV or some definitive sign of his interest earlier in the book, and the story with Rob and Harlan felt like it added unnecessary drama. However, the other side characters, especially Simon, added to the charm; his evolving friendship with Maisie was a highlight. In summary, Lark Lake Lodge is a feel-good romance perfect for those seeking a light read filled with witty banter and small-town charm.

Tropes include:
- small town romance
- “forced” proximity
- second chance at love
- protective MMC
- stubborn FMC
- new start

[Juniper Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Length: 307 pages

Lark Lake Lodge by Maggie Eliot is an emotional journey of second chances, self-discovery, and finding love after hardship. Maisie, newly divorced from a gaslighting husband who blamed her for their infertility, is ready for a fresh start. Determined to rebuild her life, she sets out to renovate her only asset—Lark Lake Lodge. But when the overwhelming scope of the project hits her, in walks Harlan, her rugged and commanding neighbor who stirs something deep within her.

From the start, sparks fly between Maisie and Harlan, despite his bossy nature and her desire for independence. Their chemistry is undeniable as they navigate the highs and lows of their relationship, only to be tested by layers of secrets and their unresolved pasts. The story delves into the challenges of overcoming deep-seated insecurities and the ways we can sabotage our own happiness.

While Maisie’s character sometimes comes across as immature, it adds to the authenticity of her struggle, showcasing how personal fears and old wounds can create hurdles in the path to healing.

Overall, Lark Lake Lodge is a beautifully written, cozy, and engaging read that keeps you hooked with its blend of romance, tension, and heartfelt moments.

[Aryana Schneider · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down! Literally read it in one sitting. Probably because it was a bit like watching a car accident happen where you can’t look away - not because of the writing, but because the characters were going. through. it.

I related to Maisie completely and found her inner-battle between wanting to be loved and cared for and her desperation for independence and to do something on her own to be endearing. Dare I say, comforting?

Harlan sure had some skeletons in his closet! He didn’t take them out on Maisie, but because of his quiet and reserved personality, it made it hard for him to share his pain. This made my heart break for him.

Honestly, my heart broke for both Maisie and Harlan. Both had gone through so many trials and so much trauma on their road to be together. And while they severely lacked communication in several aspects, I genuinely appreciated how neither character sacrificed their boundaries for the other. Every time an “argument” ended, it was because new information was brought to light and communication was had.

I do have to say, with as much running as Maisie did and as many misunderstandings that occurred in Maisie and Harlan’s communication, I normally would have struggled to finish a book with similar situations. However, I really think that Maggie Eliot, as an author, handled the situations so delicately and maturely that it didn’t come across as “oh my god Maisie ran again?” But as a point of view from a reader of compassion and understanding. Which was SO refreshing for me as a reader. Stunning book!

[Smut Report]

Heat Factor: Grab a shandy, it’s a hot one

Character Chemistry: These two knuckleheads have traumas that trigger each other (but at least they’re reasonably responsible about it)

Plot: Maisie acquires ownership of a lake lodge in her divorce from a real nincompoop, only to discover that next door lives a slightly silvery fox of a man named Harlan who has seemingly waited almost his entire adult life for someone just like her.

Overall: It was a pretty darn cute/steamy read, and all that cuteness distracted me from being irritated by Maisie and Harlan’s communication fumblings. Darn you, tender interactions!

Read our full review at The Smut Report

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. We disclose this in accordance with 16 CFR §255.

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[Nadezhda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I laughed, and I cried. I wanted to both bap and hug Maisie and Harlan on multiple occasions, but only because I love them. The things they went through in their pasts and their issues in the present were so real and palpable. And I'm glad that despite the curveballs life threw at them, and the numerous misunderstandings and fights, love and communication prevailed, and they got their (shit sorted) happy ending.
Also, there is a special place in hell for Rob being such a douche, unable to take a hint... or a hike. I'm glad Maisie did not fall for what he was selling. Even though by the end, I sort of felt sorry for him.
Needless to say that I am putting Maggie's other books on my TBR.
This book was gifted to me by my bestie from the Midwest. She thought I should have a copy when she saw it an author event she went to, and boy, I was not disappointed by her choice.
Great read overall, I highly recommend.
P. S. Now I have the need to cuddle some dogs.
P. P. S. I need a sequel with Simon and Michael and their shenanigans. I love those guys.

[Stephanie O’Neill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well I read through this far too quickly but I couldn’t put it down.

I loved the whole damn thing. Recently divorced and betrayed Maisie takes on a derelict lodge in hopes of renovating it and her life in the process.
Enter Harlan, a woodsy, bookish single dad who offers to help her and catch her time after time. 💙

This small town/ renovation romance is a must read for anyone who loves the genre! @maggieeliotauthor writes beautifully and you become fully immersed in the story like it’s playing out in real time.
It had everything you want in a romance novel and more, including a bookish MMC, cute as hell dogs and a healthy sprinkling of spice.

Tropes include :
🐾small town romance
💕 second chance/new beginnings
🐾forced proximity
💕self discovery


Trigger warnings- this book talks about infertility and the struggles of conception. Although it does have a HEA some readers may find this triggering.

[Betsy Winkler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh man, Maisie and Harlan, along with Ralph and Roger are awesome.

Maisie moves to the country with hopes of restoring the lodge that she got in her divorce from one of the biggest jerks ever! With her prior trauma, she just had to get away and I don’t blame her one bit. She is determined to regain her independence and find herself again which I respect immensely. Enter Harlan, the grumpy but gorgeous neighbor who is super protective of her right off the bat, despite just meeting her. He just can’t help himself ☺️. Harlan has been living next door to the lodge for a long time, he was best friends with the owner (Maisie’s ex’s uncle), and he just wants it to be restored to its former glory. He steps in and offers his help which is sweet but also rubs Maisie the wrong way at times because she came to do this on her own. She eventually comes around to accept his help more graciously and he realizes that at times he may have overstepped, but they make such a great team that it all works out. She also starts to break down the walls he’s built from his own prior traumas and before you know it, they can’t deny the amazing chemistry between them 🌶️🌶️🌶️ They have some big bumps in the road and a huge surprise but ultimately, they come out off the other side stronger than ever with some amazing new friends in their lives as well.

On a side note, the chapter pictures were so darn adorable!

[Devon Dalglish · Rating 4 out of 5]

such a cute, emotional rollercoaster of a story! A few tears were definitely shed, and a few omg guys not again moments, I really enjoyed this book. Small town romances with a hallmark movie type feel, are one of my favorites! Maisey is a strong woman, who doesn’t want to accept the help from Harlan, she wants to be independent after what happened in her marriage. But Harlan will do anything to help her. I loved both characters! Harlan is every girls dream- hardworking, caring, hot, muscled, and loves to read, who could pass that up? The two of them go through a rollercoaster of emotions throughout their relationship, but what they went through was raw and honest. We see the not so good parts about starting over in a new place, and in a brand new relationship after going through a terrible divorce. Yuck and easy, small town romance book that’s full of smiles, tears, laughter and heartache.

[Issy Chapple · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars
ARC Review: oh wow i absolutely ate this book up! i had such fun reading it and really really enjoyed it! i loved both characters even with their annoying-arse flaws and issues, and whilst i thought their communication was seriously lacking (for relatively justified reasons though), i loved reading about their relationship. maisie was really sweet, and i enjoyed reading her pov throughout the book, though i would’ve lovedddd to also read harlan’s during certain moments, the poor boy was a right worrier.
i also really enjoyed the setting of it being a lodge which needed some desperate TLC and thought it added a nice dynamic to the story. some of the conflicts faced were quite predictable but i quite liked that aspect, though parts did have me shouting at my kindle. overall, a really fun romance book with older main characters not in college and a fun setting, a definite recommendation from me!

[Dalegendaryreader · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a mess!

Maisie wanted to refurbish an abandoned lodge, only to find out it's unlivable. With a tight budget, she started making her dreams come true slowly but surely with the help of the grump dog-breeder next-door, Harlan.

I love the first half of the book. I flew through it because it was so fun, very endearing how two lost souls found one another. However, the second book, it was so hard to get through. I contemplated DNF-ing this especially with the mess and unnecessary drama that took place.

Both of our MCs needed therapy, not a relationship. There, I said it.

The book featured two adults but they certainly don't act like it because their past traumas hindered them in maturing.

Settled on a 2-star review but the end twist got me laughing so I guess, it's okay.

Overall, I love the author's writing style since it's easy to follow but I don't think this book is for me.

[Jasmine Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review!💓✨
Thank you to Maggie Eliot for sending me this ARC, I really enjoyed it! It is such a cosy and lovely read and it gave an autumnal feel, which makes it the perfect romance read for this season.
I found this book to be a quick read and fast paced. There was an instant attraction between the FMC and MMC and immediate spark with a little spice.
The main characters were easily likeable but realistic enough where they showed their flaws and made decisions most people wouldn’t agree with. One theme I didn’t particularly love was the miscommunication between the main characters but this wasn’t a massive issue as they learned to understand each other.
If you love small town romances, hot helpful neighbours, cute dogs, instant attraction and strong FMCs, then this book is for you!

3.75/5⭐️

[Katie Gillott · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was a cute little romance story. Maisie is fresh out of a nasty divorce and decides to renovation the old lake lodge her ex's uncle left them; it's the one thing she won in the divorce. But it is for sure not as easy as she expects! Harlan, the grumpy hermit neighbor, is there from the first moment to help her. Sooner than later, sparks start flying between them; although this relationship isn't the easiest either. Between lots of baggage on both ends, endless miscommunication, and an ex that doesn't want to fully dissappear, it's a challenge to make things work.

I feel like Maisie and Harlans' relationship was forced and moved way too fast; even for a romance novel. They were both a bit too childish for me as well.

TW for infertility discussion.

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

⚠️TW - mention of fertility issues, loss of parent mentioned ⚠️



🔥Spice Ahead (varying degrees)🔥
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 16
Chapter 19


There's just something about a small town romance with a hot rugged MMC that I will always swoon for. Harlan is the town hermit who instantly falls for Maisie when she comes to renovate and take over the lodge next door. The quickness in which they fell for each other made me giddy with excitement. I cheered with them, and I cried with them.

I'm not a huge fan of 3rd act break-ups and when I tell you this one had me in my feels, I am not lying. With that being said, this was a very enjoyable read. I look forward to reading more books by Maggie Eliot 4/5 ⭐


Quotes:
Fellas, I divorced him. You don't have to hold back. I'm fully aware that he's an asshole. 😂😂