A Spark Of Home

by Laura Marlow

After a devastating breakup, Robin packs her bags and moves to Cottondale, AZ, for a fresh start. But two years later, she’s stuck at a dead-end job at the local funeral home and is desperate for something to spark her back to life.

A mundane shift takes an unexpected turn when she is assigned a rather morbid summer project that forces her to work alongside the town's former bad boy, Hayden. Unfortunately, this sets off a chain reaction of bad luck for her, and somehow, Hayden is at the center of all of it. But as the summer unfolds, she realizes that he may not be the bad omen she believed him to be. In fact, he might be the solution all along.

Hayden has been estranged from his entire family—except for his great-aunt—for over a decade. Now, he is forced to return to his hometown, the place he tried to forget for years, to fulfill her eccentric request. Unable to say no, he has to navigate his damaged reputation, face the demons he's spent years running from, and prove to Robin that he's not the man everyone believes he is.

When they give in to their undeniable chemistry, a new problem unfolds:

Hayden is desperate to run. Robin is desperate to stay.

Genres: Romance

352 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication October 31, 2026

About the author

Laura Marlow writes fun, cute, and heartfelt romance novels
with plenty of spice and banter. Born and raised in Austria,
she now lives in Los Angeles with her two perfect cats. When
she's not writing or dreaming up fictional boyfriends, she's
probably either at Pilates, a coffee shop, or the pool.

Instagram: @lauramarlowwrites
TikTok: @lauramarlowwrites
BookBub: @laura-marlow

Reviews

[Sie · Rating 5 out of 5]

🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

💖 A Spark Of Home 💖
💖 @lauramarlowwrites 💖

⚰️⚰️⚰️I loved Great Aunt Darlene and her cheeky crazy plan.⚰️⚰️⚰️

This was such a cute and heartwarming story with a balanced plot : spice ratio. The timeline felt natural and unpressured even with the impending doom.

🌻 Small town
🌻 Bad boy / good girl
🌻 Opposite attract
🌻 Forced proximity
🌻 Family disfunction
🌻 Family repair
🌻 Summer romance

I'm eagerly awaiting Kora's story in book 2.

#Cottondale #RespectRomFic #ComingSoon #Bookstagram #Romance

[Shyanne Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off thank you to the author for allowing me to read the arc!!

I truly was hooked from page one! This was the cutest book I’ve read. Planning a “fun”eral which was probably never in Robin’s plans. She also did not plan to fall in love. Hayden never planned on going back to his hometown. Let alone falling in love. 😊

I can’t wait for book 2🤍

[Lindsey Lauria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this book! It’s become my favorite book this year. This is the authors first book and it’s so heartwarming and beautiful!
Can’t wait for more from her! 🧡

[Starla Sims · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC & really enjoyed it. I was drawn into the story quickly & loved the characters. Can’t wait for the next one!

[Jessica | Pages, Pens & Stories · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🍊🍊🍊🍊
A Spark of Home

What a lovely novel! Anything with a fake funeral has my interest, and add a sparkly heroine and a motorcycle hero and I just know it’s going to be fun in Cottondale. This book feels like Elsie Silver’s younger sister - a debut where you just know this small town has some more romance in it.

I really liked that Hayden and Robin fancy each other pretty much immediately… but actually don’t do anything about it straight away. 👀 A refreshing change from the enemies to lovers trope that is EVERYWHERE at the moment. The text message breaks between them were entertaining and I could hear their tone to each other through them; it added a modern romance touch.

The dual POV also worked really well for me. It didn’t reveal anything shocking to me about Robin, but it did instantly disarm the whole jerk who is back in town vibe we’d been given about Hayden.

And Kora. Oh Kora. She is the best friend we all need. No notes. Everyone needs a Kora.
Preferably one you can borrow when your own life is falling apart.

Now. Onto the spice.
It’s open door.
And car door.
Wiiiiide open. 👀

And then there’s the Mira storyline… 🥺
No spoilers, but I really wish we’d met her, and seen more from that family dynamic, too. This was the only bit of the story that felt slightly lacking for me, but it still felt poignant and you could feel Hayden’s commitment to them.

Overall, A Spark of Home is a sweet, easy romance with plenty of spice, a big softy disguised as a tough man, and enough emotional moments to sneak up on you. 🍊

[Daniella · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I would like to say thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. It is also important to remember that this is the author’s very first published novel. With that said, let’s go on to the review itself.

A Spark of Home had a lot of elements I enjoyed. The characters were easy to become invested in, and I really liked the emotional foundation of the story. I particularly enjoyed the humor.

My biggest struggle, however, was the flow of the dialogue. At times, conversations felt a little unnatural, and some exchanges seemed to be there to move the plot rather than feeling like an organic conversation between characters. This prevented me from being fully immersed in the book.

There is definitely a lot of potential for this series, and I think readers who enjoy small-town, heartwarming romance with emotional themes may find this book right up their alley.

[Georgia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of advanced copy received from the author

5 stars for damn sure ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What an amazing debut novel!

I loved all of the characters right from the beginning. Their personalities bounced off each other so well, and I felt completely invested in everyone and their relationships

The romance developed perfectly. It felt natural and kept me completely encapsulated in the story. I genuinely wish I could have read it faster because I did NOT want to put it down

The storyline flowed beautifully and was super easy to follow, which I really appreciated. Even when I had to put it down to go to work (ugh), it was so easy to pick back up and fall straight back into the story

I was also rooting for Mike & Kora the entire time. Side characters who are clearly going to be the stars of the sequel are always my favourite, and I already cannot wait to get their story 👀

Such a fantastic debut from Laura, and I cannot wait to see where this series goes next!

[iuliamib · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book so much! I expected a cute small-town romance, but as soon as Darlene entered the room (in the first few pages), I was hooked right away! The chemistry between Robin and Hayden felt natural, especially when sprinkled with their running jokes.
One thing that felt rushed was the conflicts in the book. There were some instances that were resolved way too easily: the Kora situation, the eviction situation, the long distance. I felt that maybe there needed to be some space, especially for the long-distance one - yearning never hurt no one!

If you enjoy cozy, banter-heavy and small-town romances with a kind of grumpy and soft hero, then read this book! This book is really something

[Rhiannon Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

What a beautiful story. I loved every second of reading this and seeing Robin and Hayden's stories unfold. The way they start the book off stuck in their lives and unhappy to meeting each other and finding the things in life they actually want is so inspiring. The fact that they didn't rely on each other to fix things in their lives but they changed things because of the other is amazing and they ended up together in the end too. The premise behind their meeting and their forced proximity was so good and done so well.

Can't wait to read more from this author and especially more from this series (mainly Kora and Mike)

[Autumn Elkhidir · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc received by author!

This is the authors debut novel, and honestly you wouldn’t even noticed. Well written, can’t wait for book #2 (All ready love Kora).

I fell in love instantly from page 1. Tropes: small town, good girl/bad boy. This was a heartwarming read, fun characters all around and the story line flowed well. Such a unique reason to unite Robin and Hayden, which made it different from many romance novels. The Epilogue 😍

Very thankful to had the opportunity to read this before the release date. Highly recommend!

[Shae Sherlinski · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much Laura Marlow for the ARC!!

If you’re looking for a funny, unconventional, easy read romance - this book is for you. Robin and Hayden had me swooning almost the whole time. Their banter was hilarious between not only them but their friends too.

The first intimate scene was actual literary perfection in my opinion. I thought the plot was different but not too outrageous. I didn’t have a bored moment at all in this book.

I’m so so excited for the next one and I will definitely add this author to my favorites list!

[BookishJoyce | Booktok · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL STORY!

I absolutely loved Robin and Hayden’s journey. Their story was emotional, heartwarming and just so easy to get lost in. I loved how meeting each other didn’t magically fix their problems, but inspired them to make changes for themselves.

And the ending?

Absolutely loved this one and I can’t wait to read more from this author, especially K and M's story! 👀

[Lauren Toft · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robin and Hayden have stolen my heart. A very cute small town romance. Hayden’s got a bad reputation and is grumpy to anyone but Robin. They come together to plan a ‘fun’eral and the rest is history

[Nicole Jeffers · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC read from the author!
This was a fun, easy, romance read! I found myself having a hard time putting it down. I love love Kora, so I can’t wait to read her story. 🫶

[Mary Tartalone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the advanced copy of this book and it was so cute!!! I LOVE Robin and I can’t wait to read Kora’s story! Also aunt Darlene is chefs kiss perfect!

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received this book as an ARC and is definitely a fun read for this time of year. Very quick pace and cute 🥰

[Nicole Webster · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! Robin and Hayden have the funniest meet cute. I love their banter and all of the side characters especially aunt Darlene and Kora. I also love a book with text messages and this one does them so well! Totally a great cute read!

Thank you to the author for this ARC!

[Julia Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fun little read!! Definitely perfect for this time of year! First off that you so much Laura for letting me read this! I cant wait for more of the cottondale series!!

The sass between the two main characters is hilarious!! Definitely a black cat & golden retriever type of relationship 😂

Sooooo Robin works at Cottondale‘s funeral home and she meets Mrs. Williams one day when she walks in because she wants to plan her own funeral and attend it.
Robin meets Hayden for the first time when she’s trying to steal an orange from an orange tree beside where she works, and then her car breaks down.
Hayden is Mrs. Williams great nephew so she gets him to come back to cottondale after being gone for a decade (family drama).

The gala with them playing Fight or Fuck Hayden is hilarious while they are dancing 😂

Lines from the book I liked:

Hayden: “Do you want a ride?”
Robin: “Ride with…you?”
Hayden: “No, not with me. With one of the other guys here.” he deadpans gesturing to the empty parking lot.

Robin: “ I need to call a mechanic.”
Hayden: “Call Jon. He’s the best. I’ll give you his number.”
Robin: “Is he a mechanic?”


There were more that I can’t think of right now but y’all really need to read this book!

Tropes
Small town
Grumpy sunshine type of relationship
Family drama
Black sheep of the family
Forced proximity

[k. a. moran · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heartfelt, deeply moving story about starting over, finding your footing, and the unexpected ways healing takes place.

When a young woman moves to a small Arizona town to escape a bad breakup and build a fresh life, she doesn't expect her path to cross with a returning local tasked with planning a fun-eral. Working together through complicated family dynamics and grief of the past, their connection evolves into a beautifully crafted slow-burn romance anchored in love, loyalty, and deep character growth.

Authentic, Relatable Characters: The main characters feel like real people navigating messy, genuine emotional turns.

Standout Supporting Cast: The humorous best friend brings incredible warmth, levity, and perfect balance to the story's heavier themes.

Pacing & Writing: Beautifully written prose that captures both the quiet beauty of small-town Arizona and the patient, natural pacing of a true slow burn.

If you enjoy emotional small-town romances that tackle healing, second chances, and deep loyalty without rushing the bond between the leads, this is an absolute must-read. Highly recommended!

[Giselle Calderon · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ ARC REVIEW — A Spark of Home by Laura Marlow
This was such a nice, cozy read. 🥹🤎 I really loved this story, and one of my favorite things about it was that Laura didn’t overcomplicate it. Everything felt natural and real, and I really enjoyed that.
The chemistry between Hayden and Robin was AMAZING. 😍 And Hayden completely won me over. He definitely has that bad-boy appearance, but he’s actually so much more than that. Laura wrote his character in such a special way. He was sweet, caring, and always putting other people before himself. I think his big heart was what made me fall in love with his character the most. 🥹
This is such a good, cozy romance to add to your TBR, and I definitely think you should give it a chance! 🤎📚
Thank you so much to Laura Marlow for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review. 🫶🏻
Make sure to check out Laura’s page and follow her for updates so you don’t miss the release of A Spark of Home! ✨

[Nazia Zabin · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ A Spark of Home by Laura Marlow ✨
ARC received from the author

I had such a fun time reading this one! 💕 I absolutely loved the characters, their little quirks, and of course, Darlene! 😂

Set in the small town of Cottondale, this story follows Hayden and Robin, who were both beautifully written. It had all the elements I love in a good summer romance: a cute meet-cute, a reformed bad boy, a sweet girl, opposites attracting, playful banter, and undeniable chemistry. 🥰

We also get a little family dysfunction woven into the story, which added another layer to the characters and their relationships.

One of my favourite things had to be the text messages between Hayden and Robin. They were just too cute! 🥹💬

Overall, this was such a fun, light summer romance, and I’m already looking forward to seeing what happens next.

Can’t wait for book two! 💕

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC!

I loved this book! I finished it in one day. This book was so funny while also showcasing so much emotional depth. Hayden's backstory with his family made me so sad, and when I learned WHY he moved to NM it made me love him so much more.

The premise of them meeting because of a fake funeral was so original and I laughed out loud so many times. The epilogue might have been my favorite one that I've read. It was so cute and again, FUNNY in the most heartwarming way. Sidenote: Robin's cat being named Mortimer is an amazing choice for a funeral home employee!

I'm excited for book 2 of this series and can't wait to read about Mike and Kora falling in love!

[Cozy by Pix · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was hooked from the first orange! This was such a cute read, I loved the banter between Robin and Hayden and found myself giggling multiple times!! I loved Haydens character!! He felt so mature, he knew what he wanted and how to communicate that. He was so cute and smitten with Robin! The spice was done so well, it wasn't the main plot but there was a perfect amount of it and at the right time in the book! I do wish maybe some of the conflict was explained a little more, or better resolved but ultimately that didn't ruin the book for me! I cannot recommend Laura Marlow enough, and I will absolutely be picking up the next book!!

Also.... Can I be Mrs. Williams when I grow up?? I LOVED her from the second we met her!

[Jitza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet, heartwarming love story! I absolutely loved the small-town, coming-home vibes and the way the story brought two people together during such an unexpected time in their lives.

After leaving his hometown behind, he returns to help plan his living aunt’s funeral, never expecting that the woman helping organize everything would become someone so important to him. Watching their relationship develop throughout the process was so cute and genuine. There was something really special about finding love while dealing with family, and the complicated feelings that come with returning home.

[Scarlett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this as a free copy from the author to give my honest review

I loved this book from start to finish. I honestly
Can’t wait for wait for the physical book to be realised to add to my trophy shelf. As a first time author she has absolutely smashed it I don’t usually read small town romance but this has definitely become one of my favourites

You felt robins and Hayden’s connection as soon as they met and their constant comical banter had me laughing out loud plenty of times

I can not wait for kora and mikes story I fell in love with them both

[Eden Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

received this ARC from the author!

i don’t typically gravitate toward purely romance novels, but this one had a good amount of dark humor and it’s genuinely FUNNY. the characters (especially robin) were deeply relatable and had me kicking my feet and twirling my hair because i just love love. the pacing is great — i literally finished in less than a day.

overall a really well-done and sweet story!! can’t believe it’s the authors first novel.

[Naatjuh_Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review
🇬🇧 English
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars
A Spark of Home had me completely hooked! 😍 The emotions, chemistry and twists kept me turning the pages. I absolutely loved this story and now I NEED book two! Please let it come soon! 🔥❤️

🇳🇱 Nederlands
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 sterren
A Spark of Home had me volledig in zijn greep! 😍 De emoties, chemie en twists hielden me helemaal vast. Ik heb hier echt van genoten en nu heb ik deel 2 NODIG! Laat die alsjeblieft snel komen! 🔥❤️

[Briana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the amazing opportunity of receiving an ARC of this book, and I was truly blown away by how much I loved it! I instantly fell in love with Hayden and Robin’s story, and I truly enjoyed all of the characters. My favorite has to be Darlene — she is truly an icon!

I was so excited to find out there will be a book two, and I cannot wait to see where the story goes next. I definitely recommend pre-ordering this book and adding it to your TBR. I’ll definitely be keeping up with this series!

[Sandra Ramirez · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Finished my ARC of A Spark of Home and I absolutely loved it!! Such a cute small-town romance that had me hooked! The characters had my heart, and ughhh, I felt for Hayden SO much

With opposites attract, forced proximity, emotional scars, family secrets, and a summer romance, this story had so much to love! I especially love when a story has you emotionally invested in the characters and their journeys💖

A huge thank you to the author for allowing me to read this ARC!

[Ashley Kimes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much for choosing me to be one of your Arc Readers!!

Oh my goodness, such an amazing read. I couldn't put it down. Small town love with a bad boy that comes back home!! This was my first romance book and Im hooked. Beautifully written and so relatable. The characters are amazing. I can't wait to read the next book!! 10 out of 10!