Anywhere But Here

Tradie Lady #3

by Rian Birch

A sapphic road trip rom-com with one bed and forced proximity that’s not just a slow It's a slow tease. From Rian Birch, author of Swept Up In You and On The Right Path, comes the next instalment of the unapologetically Aussie Tradie Lady Series.

Brooke Mayfield is back in the last place she wants to Adelaide. A place she hasn’t called home in over ten years. She didn’t see herself here at broke, feeling lost and alone yet surrounded by family with their oh-so-perfect lives. Everything she does just feels like she’s in the way with nowhere to go.

Jade “JJ” Johnson longs for a break. She’s got the house and the business, but never carved out time for herself. She’s ready to travel, starting in her home state of South Australia. Her only problem? Perfectionism is keeping her rooted to the spot, unable to make a decision on where to go and what to see.

When a chance encounter with JJ allows Brooke an opportunity to travel again, Brooke finds herself agreeing to go more out of spite than excitement. There's no way her boring state of South Australia could ever win her heart, and she’d be happy to prove JJ wrong. She’s seen the world from every different viewpoint after all. Though maybe travel isn't all about where you're going, but who you're with…

Opposites definitely attract in this outback adventure that begs the Will their trip bring them closer together, or send one of them packing?

This can be read as a standalone but does feature characters introduced earlier in the series.

Genres: Lesbian, Romance

295 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication March 27, 2026

About the author

Rian Birch writes fun, contemporary sapphic romance. She lives in Adelaide with her wife where she likes to potter in her backyard food forest and cycle to new cafes around the city. Every one of her childhood stories ended with her characters coming home and having a cup of tea. She promises to write new endings for her adult novels.

Reviews

[Jaime Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet, sappy sapphic road trip story and I had so much fun reading it. Despite it being a little on the shorter side, the pacing felt really solid and never rushed. The road trip aspect was very well done, and I loved how each part of the journey actually felt meaningful rather than just a montage of cut scenes.

The chemistry between Brooke and JJ was very believable and realistic. I'm pretty sure the definition of "sapphic yearning" is somewhere in these pages. Their connection builds in such a natural, believable way, which made all the emotional moments hit even harder.

I also appreciated that both characters felt flawed in a realistic way without that being their entire personality. Their growth felt genuine, and it was really satisfying to see them figure things out both together and individually.

I haven’t read the first two books in the series yet, but I’m definitely going back for them ASAP!

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

Favorite Quotes:
“Life is full of unplanned surprises. That’s just living. I don’t think it’s something you can avoid.”

“I don't think there's anything about you that needs to be fixed or made differently to fit some mould. There's nothing wrong with just being you; that's more than enough. It's admirable.”

“Sounds like that path is starting to show itself to you. Just take it one step at a time. [S]ometimes all you need is that next step and just make the rest up along the way.”

“[T]his was right where she was meant to be, because the best things in life couldn't be planned. Time to live outside those lines.”

“She was surrounded by the most beautiful, thoughtful souls she could ask for. How had it taken her this many years to finally feel like she was home, accepted by everyone around her? She’d found her place in the world.”

[Anna Demosi · Rating 4 out of 5]

let me first thank rian birch for the arc copy for this read! i absolutely loved the first 2, so i stalked her page for a bit waiting for sign ups😅
this was absolutely wonderful, i loved jj already from the glimpses we got in the other 2, and shes just so sweet and caring and such a soft masc and i just totally fell in love with her. i loved meeting brooke and learning about her after the ending from on the right path i was SO curious. i was waiting for this book😭
this was the perfect amount of funny and sweet tender moments, with the found family, forced proximity, one bed/sleeping arrangement, it all came together so well and i loved it! it was so cool going on all the adventures with them, and how brooke would push jj beyond her boundaries and get her to do the things she knew she would love but was too scared to do. they balanced each other out so well and they communicated so well together and helped each other realize how they were holding themselves back. these characters were written so well, and i officially love adelaide!!

[Cherie • bookshelvesandtealeaves · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Thanks so much to the author for providing me with an eARC. All thoughts are my own.

This is my favourite in the Tradie Lady series! A road trip romance?! My underrated fave.

I loved the journey Brooke and JJ go on in this book, both literally and spiritually. They learn so much from each other and they start to see new ways of approaching the parts of their lives that they’re stuck on. Both these characters really grow a lot on this trip.

And the trip itself seemed so fun! It definitely gave me that wanderlust feeling.

The romance was very sweet and very measured. It was grounded in so much mutual respect and admiration and there was so much thought put into how they wanted to approach things and they communicated so well. I really loved these two together.

[Kellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this romp through the backcountry of Australia. The dichotomy of the experiences is written so well. To move back and forth from JJ to Brooke is immersive and satisfying each time but leaves me wanting more. It’s a glimpse into the lives of two perfectly imperfect people. Each stop of their trip was compelling and valuable in bringing these two closer together. Makes me want my own road trip experience through South Australia.

[tinysparkreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Anywhere But Here
Series: The Tradie Ladies, Book 3 (Interconnected Standalones)
Author: Rian Birch
4.5/5 ⭐
Third Person – Dual POV
Recommended if you enjoy: Sapphic Romance, Road Trips, Witty Banter, Slow Burn

Summary: Brooke is crashing at her sister’s house after travelling the world for 10 years, feeling lost and out of place when JJ, a painter that Brooke has a startling encounter with, commissions Brooke to plan her two week road trip holiday in her home state of South Australia, as JJ - desperately in need of a break from work but ever the perfectionist - is too overwhelmed by all the decisions. Brooke reluctantly agrees under the condition that she doesn’t just plan the trip – but goes with JJ as a travel guide. Along the way two very different personalities help each other to let go and grow.

Thank you to Rian Birch and #NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of #AnywhereButHere for review purposes. Honest review as follows:

I went into this having not read the first two books in this series but after reading Anywhere But Here, I fully intend to fix that.
It was so cool to read a book set in Australia, Brooke and JJ’s road trip made me want to explore my own backyard and see what cool experiences there are.
This was a delightful slow burn romance, their friendship felt like it really built naturally and the spicy tension was helped along by a hot tub, truth or dare, and the classic One Bed trope.
The witty banter was really fun; I found myself chuckling aloud while reading several times. One of my favourite aspects of this book was the low to no angst vibes, it is so refreshing to have characters that can communicate with one another.
Fun fact: The main characters are the same age as my wife and I are.

In summary: I had a lot of fun reading this, their story was beautiful and flirty, and the moments of true connection and vulnerability made this a standout for me.

[Fiona Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anywhere But Here is the third book in Rian Birch's Tradie Lady series, the third one I've read and absolutely my favourite, which is saying something given I really enjoyed the first two books. It's certainly got this little Aussie wanting to get out and see more of her own country, particularly South Australia which I haven't yet had the opportunity to explore beyond Adelaide.

I absolutely loved the contrast between the two main characters. On one hand we have Brooke Mayfield who stuck back home in Adelaide after 10 years of travelling the world, crashing at her sister's place, broke and desperate to escape the oh-so-perfect family and their criticisms of her life choices. On the flip side, we have Jade "JJ" Johnson, a painter and business owner who wants to take a break and get away to explore more her home state. However, her perfectionism keeps her rooted in place and unable to decide on where to go and what to see. When the two women cross paths while JJ is undertaking a paint job at Brooke's sister's place the solution quickly becomes apparent with the two women coming to an arrangement whereby Brooke will plan the entire trip and accompany JJ as tour guide, even if it means staying within the State that Brooke so desperately despises.

What follows is a wonderfully eventful, crazy, hysterical journey, both in terms of where they travel but also in terms of geography and of self-discovery. I absolutely loved it.

I am incredibly grateful to Rian Birch for providing me with an ARC copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Gio.reads.sapphic]

Opposites attract, proximity forced And vulgar auduibooks? Say no more, I'm in.

I really have nothing to say other than MOVE to read it!!!!

Jokes aside, the slow burn is damn good and the descriptions are chef kiss – mind you I've never been to Australia but after reading this book it's like I've seen pieces of it.

This is my third book by Rian, (they're all interconnected standalones), each story is different but there is a common thread that unites them all, an all queer and female cast #girlpower!

That said, in this book you will find:
-Strangers to Lovers
-Only one bed
-Forced Proximity
-Slow Burn
-Opposites Attract
-Set Down Under
-Low Angst
-Witty Banter
-Scissoring & body paint
-Road trip
-Contemporary
-Masc x Femme
- Hiking
-Bi/Pan Mc (not specified)

Overall it's 4.5⭐ and 3🔥. I just would have liked seeing a bit more of them as an established couple.

[V · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Slow Sunday Press for granting me access to an e-ARC of “Anywhere But Here” by Rian Birch in exchange for an honest review.

This book. This book!!!!! Oh wow, it was such a joy to read, I just couldn’t put it down. I was sucked in right away by the dynamic of the two main characters (Brooke and JJ). Right from the start, they had great banter that flowed easily, swoon-worthy flirting, and were effortlessly funny. And their buildup was so satisfying!! You know those slow burns that are almost painful, make you want to rip your hair out, and are more frustrating than enjoyable? This is NOT one of them. This slow burn was like watching a sunrise. So slow, sweet, and so worth the wait.

Speaking of tropes, this book was filled with them. Meet ugly. Opposites attract. Road trip. Only one bed. Forced proximity. Friends with benefits. Slow burn. I could just cryyyyyyyy from how good these tropes were and how well they were utilized. One of my notes I made while reading sums it up best: FOAMING AT MOUTH!!!

One of the biggest highlights of this book is Birch’s prose. I could just swim in certain sentences, certain lines, certain analogies. There were some lines that would just jump off the page and grab hold of me, they were so stunning. Birch somehow managed to capture the whole range of human emotion in these 300 pages. Most notably, she captured the feeling of missing a piece of yourself, of pining and yearning, of finding yourself so accurately and deeply. With this being my first introduction to Birch… what an impression she left. Wow!!!

Another one of the surprising joys of this book was Brooke and Hayley’s relationship. Seeing these two sisters progress through the book, going from a frigid, strained relationship to a bond filled with understanding and promise was fantastic. Their slow coming back together had nice payoff, and it was something I wasn’t expecting at all when I first picked up this book! In fact, the whole sub-plot around Brooke and finding her people and her home was something I wasn’t expecting, but was so moved by.

Alright, time for me to be honest. I saw the cute AF cover and I jumped right in without reading the description or looking into anything about the book. (I mean, c’mon, can you blame me? Look at that gorg cover!! AND, fun Easter egg, it’s done by the author’s wife!! It’s beyond cute and is making me swoon almost as much as this book did!) That being said, there were a few things that surprised me about the book within the first few pages. In case you’re anything like me and didn’t fully read the description, heads up…
➡️ This book is set in Australia, and is filled with region-specific slang, locations, and verbiage. There’s a handy glossary at the front of the book for some of the Australian slang, but it does not cover everything. Major props to Birch for always giving enough context clues within the text that I never was left wondering what the Australian word is referencing, AND I never had to Google anything for clarity. (If someone asked me what BBQ Shapes were before I read this book, I wouldn’t have had a hot clue. But thanks to these gals and some goats, I now know them to be a type of cracker!) The slight Australian slang learning curve I went through took nothing away from the enjoyment of the book. In fact, I think I may have enjoyed the book even more because of it!
➡️ This is actually book three of the Tradie Lady series by Birch. As this is the first book I’ve read of Birch’s, so I had a grand total of ZERO knowledge of any of the previous books in this series. Rest assured, even though it’s the third book in this series, reading this as a stand-alone did not take anything away from the enjoyment or understanding of it. There were some lovely cameos of characters from previous books (which I now want to go back and read!), but they were all introduced on-page in a way that didn’t make me bat an eye.

The ONLY thing that made me consider giving this book a 4.5 star rating was the feeling of a missing scene. [SPOILERS AHEAD.] Near the end of the book, JJ realizes she wants to date Brooke and, almost like whiplash, the next scene is of JJ picking Brooke up for their date. We skipped over the part where JJ actually asks Brooke to go on the date! I want the deets!! How did she do it? What did she say? What did Brooke say? Did she have to hype herself up to send the text? Was sending that text as easy as breathing? Did she have any typos? I need more! I honestly was so bothered that this scene was skipped that I had to put the book down and complain to my wife and pout. So if I have to complain about anything, it’s the fact I needed more JJ and Brooke time between JJ’s realization and their date, but I ultimately decided that the magnificence of the rest of the book majorly outweighed my one tiny gripe.

Overall, this was an amazing book. I need a physical copy so I can grasp it in my sweaty hands and never let it go. Every page was enjoyable and I never wanted it to end. The tropes were fun, the characters lively and effortless to like, and the romance had me swooning with every glance and touch. Genuinely, a gem of a book that I’d highly recommend.

[LFP Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author. My opinions and review are my own, and I leave this review voluntarily.

Once again, Rian Birch delivers a great book! I'm still in awe with how she could write three books this nice in less than a year. How many writers can do that???

This one is a bit different form the other two of the Tradie Lady series: instead of following up the story in Adelaide, you will travel around South Australia with JJ and Brooke. And let me say this: I liked their experiences so much that I'm now looking forward to my next vacations, so I can go to that place.

The relationship between JJ and Brooke grows slowly, and although they kiss reasonably soon in the book, their connection gets deeper and deeper along the story. I would not classify this as a super slow burn, but it does take some time for them to be fully into each other. But when they do... Phew!

They also share some very deep conversations along the trip, and it was nice to see how they faced other perspectives for issues that were preventing them to be happy with their lives and the people around them. And following up what happened after the trip allows us to see the consequences of those conversations.

I read this book after reading the first two of the series, and although you can read this one as a standalone, I recommend you to read the other two first, so you can better enjoy the scenes where other characters interact with JJ and Brooke here.

On The Right Path is still my favorite of the series because I could connect more with the MCs there, but this book was so good I'm still thinking about it A LOT after finish reading it.

This was my first ARC read, and I was honored to write a review to such a nice book.

[sapphicliteratureirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚 ARC Review 📚 Thanks to the author for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

A low-angst, sexy sapphic road trip was exactly what I needed 🛻

The story follows the dual perspectives of Brooke and JJ. They are opposites, yet both find themselves in need of time away and a change of scenery. Brooke loves travelling and being constantly on the move rather than tied down in one place, but she’s also feeling lost, aimless and unhappy. A chance encounter leads her to JJ, who is craving a little adventure of her own.

And as they say, you don’t really know someone til you travel with them 💫

Their Australian road trip creates a wonderfully fun dynamic: Brooke, the easy-going, go-with-the-flow traveller, alongside JJ, who prefers order and a well-thought-out plan. From mishaps to delightful surprises, stunning scenery and exciting excursions, they experience it all together. Along the way they get to know each other while also finding space to reflect on themselves. Their witty banter and growing attraction make the journey all the more enjoyable.

I also really appreciated the character growth the author gives both women throughout the story. As the trip unfolds, they begin to challenge their assumptions, reflect on what they truly want, and gradually open themselves up to new possibilities 💖

I loved seeing Brooke realise that anywhere can be wonderful with the right person beside you. I also loved JJ discovering that she has many layers, and that some of the most exciting experiences happen when you occasionally let go of the plan. Sometimes a perfectly curated list isn’t realistic, and sometimes the person you’ve been looking for is right there in front of you.

Ultimately, the story explores whether what they’re feeling is simply holiday chemistry, a deep friendship, or something more — because missing someone that intensely might mean it’s more than just a trip...

[FemmeFataleReviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4,5) This was amazing. It felt like I was right there with them on vacation, exploring South Australia. I was very relaxed and loved those feel good vibes.

Anywhere But Here is an impossibly cute comfort read. It's a low angst romance about a perfectionist learning to go with the flow and a free spirit learning to love herself.
The story focused more on chemistry and emotional connection than sexual attraction which I loved.

The setting and vacation activities were so well written. I loved the characters, they were incredibly relatable and lovable.

The author's writing style improved immensely since her debut, especially the flow of her sentences. The prose had little flaws, but the feelings and her great lines definitely made up for it.
The story is gripping and I felt so much for the characters. The way they acted around each other was beautiful. They were teasing and supportive, they got to know and complemented each other organically. How they fell in love so very slowly was incredible.

I also loved the depth in which the emotional development of the characters was explored. Even though a big part of the book was one of the MCs' struggle with who she is, it was relatable and didn't feel like whining. Instead, it was really well balanced with everything exciting they were experiencing.

The dialogues were great, especially how well and kind of specific and realistic the characters had the hard conversations. Except when it got to the end and they were feeling all the feels and summarised a bit what they learned, it felt at bit too on the nose and therefore just slightly unrealistic.

A slight downside was also in the end, when it got to the resolution, it felt just a bit rushed and not as emotional as it could've been.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

What we see in ourselves as flaws, other people hold up as our super powers.

JJ and Brooke’s road trip is a love letter to South Australia highlighting beautiful places to visit, even if Brooke has no interest in seeing them. JJ and Brooke learn more about each other and themselves through their travel experiences, including the ones they can and can’t control, and these experiences help to shape them and drive the plot forward.

The writing is engaging, the dialogue is funny, and I found myself laughing along with the lead characters.

The characters are multidimensional; we see them how they portray themselves, but also the inner battles that drive or prevent them from making choices. The secondary characters are ones we have met earlier in the series and they provide context to help JJ and Brooke to navigate their feelings.

With tropes of opposites attract, one bed, anti-relationship, and forced proximity this is a slow tease romance that makes you want to paint outside the lines.

The third installment of the “Tradie Ladies” series can be read as a stand-alone – but do yourself a favour and read the first two – Swept Up In You and On The Right Path.

Rating – 5/5 paint brushes

Takeaways

JJ is a perfectionist. She stays within the box she has built herself. After years of solo travel Brooke knows how to pivot when things don’t go quite to plan. Finding someone that makes you feel comfortable enough to shave off your sharp corners and roll with changes is everything.

What we see in ourselves as flaws, other people hold up as our super powers.

A successful life looks different for everyone – and so it should.

Being a spoon rather than a fork is a choice! (Read the book and this will make sense.)

I was provided with an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest evaluation by NetGalley and Victory Editing.

[Micca B aka gigglybookgeek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED this book!! I think it is my favorite book of Rian’s so far. Brooke and JJ are such opposites, which makes for great banter and some hilarious bumps along the way. It also sets up a slow burn that really pulls you in. That doesn’t mean there isn’t spice along the way, it is just a build up to the very colorful main event.

What I really adore about the Tradie Ladies series is that you see characters from Swept Up In You in the second book, On the Right Path, and then again in Anywhere but here. I also love how each of the books overlap, getting to see characters we already fell in love with once again just adds to the story for me. You see some more than others, especially since Brooke lives with her sister. That relationship is also a difficult one to navigate.

Overall my thoughts are that Anywhere But Here is a wonderful story about learning to be open to things you might not normally be open to, remembering to try to see yourself how those that care about you see you, and that when you don’t open up you never really know what the other person is thinking. This book not only touches on past trauma, dating apps (ugh-THE WORST 🤣), anxiety and panic attacks, but also learning how to reform how you see things, letting things go, and trying something new. Brooke & JJ might be opposites, but wow do they attract! Rian really can build up the tension, make you laugh so loud, have you yelling at characters, and also shedding a few happy tears.

I was honored to once again be a part of the beta team, and also read the ARC. It takes a lot to trust someone to give open and honest feedback, but it really was a joy to be a part of Rian’s team. My review and opinions are my own.

[CtrlAltRead · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book and chose to leave a review voluntarily.

This story follows Brooke, a twenty-nine-year-old traveller who unexpectedly finds herself back in Adelaide after spending the last ten years exploring the world. Being back home is definitely not where she imagined she’d end up, and that restless “what now?” feeling comes through really clearly in her character.

Then there’s JJ, a professional painter who has built her life and career in South Australia and seems far more settled and grounded. When the two cross paths and end up sharing a road trip, the story really starts to find its rhythm.

This was such an enjoyable read. At times it genuinely felt like I was right there with them, travelling through South Australia and experiencing the trip alongside them. The character development never felt overshadowed by the adventure either, it all stays nicely balanced with everything they’re discovering along the way. I also really appreciated how natural the dialogue felt, even during the more difficult or emotional conversations.

The romance itself leans heavily into the slow burn, opposites-attract dynamic, and it definitely takes its time getting there. As someone who was quietly rooting for these two from early on, there were moments where I caught myself wishing things would move just a little faster, but the slower pacing does suit the reflective, road-trip feel of the story.

If I had one small note, it would be that I personally would have loved a slightly stronger initial spark between Brooke and JJ earlier in the book. Their connection grows nicely over time, but a little extra tension at the start might have made that slow burn even more satisfying.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have now read all three books available in the Tradie Lady series, and this one was my favourite so far. I have never been to Australia but after reading this book with that vivid description of JJ and Brooke’s travel in South Australia makes me want to ask Brooke to also plan a trip for me since it sounded amazing. The opposites attract situation and slow burn romance bring other layers of angst and personal growth which made this book such an amazing read. I really recommend this book.

I loved the interactions between JJ and Brooke during their whole journey. Brooke that is prepared for everything, knows that it always unpredictable, things can go wrong and that is such a perfect match to JJ that would have freaked up the first day of travelling without Brooke. Now even though some things don’t go to plan it all ends up just perfect and memorable, just like adventures should be. Brooke on the other hand learns so much also from JJ, gets a new perspective on life and realizes that settling down a bit not such a terrible thing and she may not be such a big failure after all.

The attraction is there all the way through their journey, but they think it is a no go since they are so different. JJ wants an emotional connection with someone special for life and Brooke is all about casual, does not want to be tied down, she has never even dated before. As a reader so sweet to follow their way to perhaps allowing themselves to be more than friends one day.

I received a free ARC from the author and leave an honest review voluntarily.

[Andietrue · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review — Anywhere But Here

This was my first read by Rian Birch, and even though it’s the third instalment in the series, it didn’t impact my enjoyment or my ability to sink straight into the story. I felt fully immersed from the start.

I really warmed to the main characters, JJ and Brooke. There was a quiet and shared vulnerability running through their story. JJ’s perfectionism and Brooke’s carefree, slightly fun/chaotic energy made them such a great opposites‑attract pairing. Their emotional connection, the ‘really seeing each other’ gave it a lot of depth. I was rooting for them the whole time. Watching them slowly let go of their self‑imposed rules and open up to something real was genuinely satisfying, with just the right amount of humour woven through. I laughed out loud and found myself smiling more than once.

The supporting cast adds lovely warmth, as does the setting. The outback scenes cast a vivid picture, with a strong sense of place and a thoughtful acknowledgement of the land and its custodians. The setting grounds the story beautifully without overshadowing the characters.

As a Kiwi neighbour who loves visiting Australia, I really appreciated the Aussie humour and cultural touches — the drop bear joke especially (a running joke in my own family too).

All in all, this is a super feel good read with super likeable characters and there are bonus goats… ❤️🐐🐐🐐

I feel very lucky to have been given the chance to read this ARC, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lez_be_readin_ya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Opposites collide in this hilarious and heartfelt romance

What a fantastic book. This is probably my favourite of the three in the series. I absolutely loved the dynamic between JJ and Brooke—two complete opposites who constantly push each other’s buttons in the most entertaining ways. It’s the kind of book that once you start reading, you won’t want to put it down.

The relationship development between JJ and Brooke is the perfect blend of humour, tension, and heartfelt moments. Their chemistry is completely off the charts, and watching their story unfold was such a joy. Finishing the book felt a little bittersweet, but the journey and the outcome made it entirely worth it.

I especially loved how Brooke isn’t exactly the most put-together person, while JJ is the complete opposite. Their differences make the story even more engaging and fun to read. These two had me laughing out loud so many times, particularly during their chaotic road trip—the goats, for example, were absolutely hilarious.

Thank you, Rian, for the opportunity to read your incredible book. I’m excited to see what you have in the pipeline next, and I’d love to see more of these two—and the other Tardie ladies—in the future.

Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥

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

🎭 Tropes/ Content:
Slow Burn, Forced Proximity, Opposites Attract, One Bed, Low-Angst, Road Trip, Tradie Lady / Blue Collar Worker, Aussie, Witty Banter

[Savvysapphicreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate enough to get an ARC of “Anywhere But Here” by Rian Birch. When I say run, don’t walk to get your pre orders in… I mean it! Here’s my thoughts and I’ll add a review on Amazon when the book is released on 27th March!

Anywhere But Here contains 297 pages of cosy feelings, picturesque landscapes and humour.
Brooke and JJ’s journey was incredible - their actual journey of the trip to South Australia and both their individual journeys of character growth.
It was cute and heart warming and oh I wanted more! I could not put the book down and just wished it could go on forever. All of Rian Birch’s books make me feel that way. An amazing way to just escape real life into the wonders that is Australian living.
You can’t have a good sapphic book without at least a sprinkling of spice (for me anyway). The spice was just the right amount and set at the best times, didn’t feel rushed or fast paced, and the slow tease leading up to it just helped make it all that more lovely.
The humour along side the heart warming, emotional conversations were a great mix showing that it’s okay be vulnerable and to learn to open yourself up to those you trust. And, also, that sometimes it’s more than okay to paint over the lines.
Thank you Rian, as always your words have left me needing more. I cannot wait to read what you produce in the future. Massive fan

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great! I really enjoyed this one, gave it 4.5 but rounded up for the good reads community 🫡

This is her third book in the series and it’s easily my favourite.

Like the other two books it’s a dual POV in the third person but this time it’s JJ the painter and Brooke the broody lass only whispered about in the second book.

Again the progression in the author’s writing is great. I do enjoy reading an author’s collected works to see where they start and after only three books they’ll definitely be a must read for me. 🤌

Each MC had their own challenges to overcome and the growth of the characters, both separately and together, was well written and a pleasure to read. Their support for each other was also very sweet and I thoroughly enjoyed how well they communicated.

When the promotional ad crosses out burn and replaces it with tease nothing else has reigned truer. JJ and Brooke are heavily disciplined women. Hath no fear☝️your patience is rewarded with multi chapter spice should that be important to you 🫡

The book is well paced, with good banter and low angst and just a joy to read. I absolutely recommend this book and the series to anywho who is a fan of contemporary romance. 👌

As always, this review is my own and thank you again Rian Birch for the lovely ARC!

[Amanda Lovette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This might very well be my favorite in the series, which is saying alot because I really enjoyed the first two books. I just loved the Australia setting and having women kick ass in male dominated professions. But then add a road trip to the mix, and the perfect opposites attract couple, and I instantly feel in love with this one.

Opposites attract tropes can really be a hit or miss depending on how opposite the characters really are and if they are able to find a common ground, so I really commend the author for doing such a great job with these characters. I honestly felt like I was right alongside Brooke and JJ on their journey and especially loved the humor and banter between the two. All the activities, dates, and stops along the way all felt like they had a purpose and worked towards pushing both characters a little outside their comfort zones. Doesn’t hurt that most of the time they were forced to share one bed, or close quarters! For a pair that didn’t have much time together before embarking on a road trip together, they actually had good communication besides admitting their feelings for each other, but I appreciated how they didn’t shy away from having the hard conversations and were slowly able to build trust. By the end, they just perfectly balanced each other out and had really great chemistry.

I don't normally like slow burns too but this one felt so natural and progressed with the right amount of angst, yearning, and spice. I also enjoyed how both Brooke and JJ took time to self reflect and really grow both individually so that they could be a stronger couple and understand one another. The only thing I wish was that there had been a few more chapters in the end with them as an established couple, maybe going to visit J.J’s family and seeing how Brooke did with her business once it was established. But other than that, I absolutely loved this series, and will remember all the fun and tender moments that brought all of these characters together!

[Monna · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Anywhere But Here,” the third installment of Rian Birch’s Tradie series, doesn’t disappoint. Take two disparate individuals (not total opposites but close), mix in deep-seated insecurities, send them on a road trip through South Australia, and you have Brooke and JJ. Brooke is a wanderer, a traveler. Financial constraints force her to come back home to Adelaide and she’s not happy about it. JJ is the “tradie” in this book, a self-employed painter who likes everything in its place. JJ also works too much and her body and mind need a break. These two get together and come up with a plan to take a road trip. Brooke plans it and guides their journey while JJ pays. Mutually beneficial. What ensues is an exciting itinerary which has a few bumps along the way, but the two work through everything nicely. I thoroughly enjoyed the trip–the author’s lush descriptions had me wishing I was there along with them! This is a lovely book in many ways. JJ and Brooke work through their differences, overcome unforeseen obstacles, and enjoy unexpected surprises. It’s a feel-good story for sure.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I love Rian's writing style, her character development, and her story telling. Every word, every emotion, and every activity was perfectly planned. 

We meet Brooke, who's struggling after spending a decade traveling after running from her less than ideal family dynamic. She's come home to Adelaide, even if she feels like it was a mistake.

We then meet JJ, Tradie lady who is a professional painter. She's got her life planned out – her business is booming, she has an amazing friend group, but she's missing something. 

When JJ finds out Brooke knows how to travel, they get together and head out on a two week road trip filled with excitement, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and passion.

Honestly, I loved these characters, and I loved getting to see Remi and Jess again. The friend group dynamics were on point, and I loved every second. 

This is a slooooooow teasing burn, but it's so worth it. The date before the sparks ignite was 🤌🏼 perfect. 

Check out the Tradie Ladies if you love bold characters, heartwarming friendships, and spicy passion.

[Henriette · Rating 4 out of 5]

A roadtrip to love - through South Australia
I love Rian Birch‘s low angst romances. This one is another entertaining read which has us travelling through South Australia and ties into it neatly a slow-burn, opposite-attracts romance.
JJ is a painter who runs a tight ship in her business and dating life: always a plan or a list. When her vacation comes up and she has not yet a plan Brooke comes into her life - a well-seasoned traveler. Brooke is kind of stranded at her sister‘s house and is without a plan about her life. She offers to organize JJ‘s road trip through South Australia although she has serious doubts about South Australia being a worthwhile destination. Well, both JJ and Brooke are in for surprises and it was fun to follow them and see the attraction between them building slowly.
Although part 3 of the Tradie Lady series this romance can be enjoyed as a stand-alone.

I received an ARC. The review is left voluntarily.

[Ashtid D · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review.

Anywhere But Here is a fun and adventurous contemporary romance that follows, Brooke and JJ as a spontaneous road trip slowly turns into something much more meaningful. What starts as two strangers traveling together gradually builds into a connection where they learn to understand and support each other.

My favorite part of the book was Brooke’s character development. Watching her slowly come out of her shell felt natural and rewarding. JJ’s calm, patient, and understanding nature makes him the perfect person to help her grow, which makes their relationship feel really genuine.

This book also delivers on some great romance tropes:

✨ Strangers to Lovers
✨ Opposites Attract
✨ Slow Burn
✨ Masc × Fem dynamic (sometimes switch)
✨ Road Trip Romance / Adventure

And yes… the body paint moment definitely adds a memorable spark to their chemistry. The spice level sits comfortably at about a 3/5, balancing romance and tension without overpowering the story.

Overall, this was a sweet, adventurous romance about connection, growth, and finding love in unexpected places.

⭐ Rating: 4/5
🌶 Spice: 3/5

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a pleasure to be introduced to the Tradie Ladies series ! I cannot believe this was missed on my radar especially if you want all those good feelings of a well-deserved HEA that is believable and not an immediate u-haul. The characters felt fully formed and had dimensions outside their sexuality. Another added bonus is the visual landscape that is painted while reading. It will feel like you are exploring South Australia and may cause plane ticket buying as a result.

This is a lesbian and bi-sexual POV - The background of the bi-character is a little confusing and it felt a little unclear if she was was all in UNTIL SHE WAS VERY ALL-IN. I really loved both of these characters journeys and will be going back to read the first two!

[Jess Bullock · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun book! I loved being back in this series. Brooke and JJ are opposites to the extreme and I was curious how they would move past that to form a relationship but as they got to know each other they just....worked. This book takes us on a journey through Southern Australia and is such a vivid adventure you feel like you are there. From the scenery to the activities, I think I want Brook to plan a vacation for me too!

This is a very slow burn with a lot of will they, won't they, some kissing, and me shouting "Just admit your feelings and fully be together already!" at the book. It was a great time.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC

[Reg 🦇 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like with all Rian Birch novels, once I picked this book up I simply could not put it down!

Anywhere But Here was so cute and honestly? JJ and Brooke might just be my new favourite couple from the Tradie Ladies series 👀🙂‍↕️

Genuinely so beautifully written, with such fully fleshed out and loveable characters. It made me giggle and kick my feet LOTS and it also made me really emotional at points. I really really loved this book.

If you love:
* Slow Burn
* Forced Proximity
* Opposites Attract
* One Bed
* Low-Angst
* Road Trip
* Tradie Lady / Blue Collar Worker
* Aussie
* Witty Banter
Then I couldn’t recommend Anywhere But Here more! This might just be your new favourite sapphic romance…

[Katie Cleek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first Advance Reader Copy experience and all I can say is, sign me up!!! I recently discovered the world of sapphic books and I am *hooked*. I stumbled across Rian Birch on instagram; saw that she was looking for ARCs; had to google what “ARCs” meant; immediately filled out her form 🤣 I was NOT disappointed! This story had me giggling, swooning, laughing, jaw dropping…loved it! I’ve never been to Australia, but after reading this book, it almost feels like I was on this road trip, too. So, how does one get their book adapted into a film…

[Katelin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story so much! I loved the banter between JJ and Brooke as they travel across Australia and get the know each other! I laughed, I gasped, I laughed some more… I had so much fun reading this book! Their relationship ship builds while they explore the sights and while JJ learns to trust someone else with her vacation, Brooke learns how important it is to settle down and have those hard conversations she’s literally been running from at home with her sister. I got bored of Brooke running away from her feels a little quickly but I still really enjoyed reading their story! Talk about SLLOOOOOWWW burn though! In the best way! And I loved seeing so many familiar faces! 🩷🩷

[Shannon bagnall · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I started this book I didn’t realise it was a sequel however it can be read as a stand alone, but it might help for character development to read all in the series first.

I did enjoy this one, I really resonated with Brooke struggling to say how she felt, it was so lovely to see how JJ helped her with that.

I just wished there was more to the ending, as the pacing felt off to me, it was kind of like the ending was very quick to finish

Overall it was a good read.

* full disclosure I was given this book in exchange for an honest review through NetGalley*