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After the Summer Rain
Workaholic Erin Ryder was on the fast track to self-destruction. Reeling after her lover walked out on her, she turned to booze and caffeine to make it through each day. After a family intervention, she finds herself on a remote ranch in New Mexico—on womyn’s land—to detox and heal. No cell service, no Internet—she’s convinced she won’t last three days, much less for the three-month sentence her father has mandated.
Running from the chaos that had become her life, Melanie West moved to Eagle Bluff Ranch seven years ago. By far the youngest there, she embraced the compassionate, peaceful life that the elders espoused. Living off what her garden produced, her chickens and goats became her friends and confidants. Exposure to the outside world was limited to the handful of guests who stayed a few days at the ranch each year.
This summer would be different. Melanie found herself hosting a young woman for three months. A young woman who wanted to be anywhere but there. As the days and weeks passed, their animosity turned to friendship as they helped the other heal from their past failures.
Erin soon found herself loving life on Mel’s little farm. Loving life and loving Mel. Saying goodbye would be the hardest thing she had to do—saying goodbye to Mel…or saying goodbye to her previous life.
Genre: Romance
Editor: Medora MacDougall
Cover Designer: Sandy Knowles
Running from the chaos that had become her life, Melanie West moved to Eagle Bluff Ranch seven years ago. By far the youngest there, she embraced the compassionate, peaceful life that the elders espoused. Living off what her garden produced, her chickens and goats became her friends and confidants. Exposure to the outside world was limited to the handful of guests who stayed a few days at the ranch each year.
This summer would be different. Melanie found herself hosting a young woman for three months. A young woman who wanted to be anywhere but there. As the days and weeks passed, their animosity turned to friendship as they helped the other heal from their past failures.
Erin soon found herself loving life on Mel’s little farm. Loving life and loving Mel. Saying goodbye would be the hardest thing she had to do—saying goodbye to Mel…or saying goodbye to her previous life.
Genre: Romance
Editor: Medora MacDougall
Cover Designer: Sandy Knowles
310 pages, Paperback
First published September 19, 2019
50 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
About the author
Gerri Hill
56 books1,539 followersGerri began writing lesbian romance as a way to amuse herself while snowed in one winter in the mountains of Colorado, and hasn’t looked back. Her first published work came in 2000 with One Summer Night. Many more romances have followed, with the occasional murder mystery in the mix.
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
September 14, 2019
3.75 Stars. This was a really sweet romance. As most readers out there I am a big Hill fan. I do have to admit I prefer her mystery and paranormal type books more than her traditional romances but her books are well written and enjoyable no matter what she writes.
This is a story about two women who are wounded from their past and are trying to heal. They do this by gardening, cooking all fresh foods, and communing with nature. The bond they grow together is strong but what happens when they have to say goodbye?
I have been reading a ton of fantasy and mystery books lately so this sweet and soft traditional romance was quite the switch for me. There was one moment of excitement but 90% of this book is very laid back. I want to make clear it’s not boring. It’s very well written and held my attention even during more mundane tasks like the characters mucking out sheep sh!t. I have to be honest, I did find myself wishing for a little more angst. There is a little conflict in the book but it’s so small and you know what is going to happen next. I could have used a little something more to stir things up.
The romance is very sweet. There are some explicit sex scenes but they are only slightly explicit. For those of you that don’t care for very detailed sex scenes, you will probably like these. I’m bringing up the s word again but because this story was so “sweet”, I didn’t mind that the sex scenes weren’t as steamy as Hill can write.
If you are in the mood for a lighter, feel good romance, this is a great choice. Hill writes wonderfully like always. I enjoyed the characters and was completely immersed in the setting. I felt like I was on a farm in New Mexico and I didn’t want to leave. Personally, I would have enjoyed a little more excitement or angst, but we need sweet stories too.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
This is a story about two women who are wounded from their past and are trying to heal. They do this by gardening, cooking all fresh foods, and communing with nature. The bond they grow together is strong but what happens when they have to say goodbye?
I have been reading a ton of fantasy and mystery books lately so this sweet and soft traditional romance was quite the switch for me. There was one moment of excitement but 90% of this book is very laid back. I want to make clear it’s not boring. It’s very well written and held my attention even during more mundane tasks like the characters mucking out sheep sh!t. I have to be honest, I did find myself wishing for a little more angst. There is a little conflict in the book but it’s so small and you know what is going to happen next. I could have used a little something more to stir things up.
The romance is very sweet. There are some explicit sex scenes but they are only slightly explicit. For those of you that don’t care for very detailed sex scenes, you will probably like these. I’m bringing up the s word again but because this story was so “sweet”, I didn’t mind that the sex scenes weren’t as steamy as Hill can write.
If you are in the mood for a lighter, feel good romance, this is a great choice. Hill writes wonderfully like always. I enjoyed the characters and was completely immersed in the setting. I felt like I was on a farm in New Mexico and I didn’t want to leave. Personally, I would have enjoyed a little more excitement or angst, but we need sweet stories too.
An ARC was given to me for a honest review.
January 28, 2020
Audiobook.....
read by Nicol Zanzarella
I haven’t a clue how I found this book .....
Gerri Hill was new to me.
I went in blind.....knew zilch about the story.
....Predictable? Absolutely!
....Did I care? Not one bit!
....Great characters? Yes
....Goats & chickens? Yes
....Skinny dipping in hot springs?
....optional: but, Yes.
....Cell phones, internet, coffee, drugs, alcohol, or meat?
....NOT A CHANCE!
....Gardening, cooking, naps, and or making love in the afternoon?
....Definitely a possibility
Want to know more?
....read the book!
....Women comfort reading/listening! ( men are welcome)
....My gay women friends will enjoy this book.
....Overworked, stressed out, burned out, tired of traffic....noise, chaotic schedules, and fast foods?
Good choice, then.
Feel good book? YES!!!
I adored it!
read by Nicol Zanzarella
I haven’t a clue how I found this book .....
Gerri Hill was new to me.
I went in blind.....knew zilch about the story.
....Predictable? Absolutely!
....Did I care? Not one bit!
....Great characters? Yes
....Goats & chickens? Yes
....Skinny dipping in hot springs?
....optional: but, Yes.
....Cell phones, internet, coffee, drugs, alcohol, or meat?
....NOT A CHANCE!
....Gardening, cooking, naps, and or making love in the afternoon?
....Definitely a possibility
Want to know more?
....read the book!
....Women comfort reading/listening! ( men are welcome)
....My gay women friends will enjoy this book.
....Overworked, stressed out, burned out, tired of traffic....noise, chaotic schedules, and fast foods?
Good choice, then.
Feel good book? YES!!!
I adored it!
September 8, 2019
Melanie has been living on Stella’s land in New Mexico for seven years. Only women, most of them lesbians, most of them in their seventies. The youngest on the land at 37, Mel has moved here for reasons she doesn’t enjoy discussing. She needed solitude and while she gets lonely sometimes, she’s happy with it. In Houston, Erin has lost herself in work for the past year and a half and her family is worried. They manage to convince her to spend three months at Stella’s. She ends up staying with Melanie. The first few days are tough for both, Melanie trying not to resent Erin for invading her privacy even though hosting guests once in a while is part of the deal, Erin fighting her Red Bull (among other things) withdrawal and not being her sweet old self at all. But as time goes by, they get along then become friends, then more.
I know a lot of Gerri Hill’s readers love her mystery novels but I am first and foremost a fan of her romances. At Seventeen, Storms (which I translated into French, lucky me) or No Strings are some of my favorite. She keeps breaking my heart before mending it again, and it’s painful in the best way.
The scene where Erin is taken to the land reminded me of when I was a teenager and was sent to something akin to summer camp. I hated it, it was full of people I didn’t know (I’m not good with people I don’t know) in a place I’d never been to before (I’m not good with places I’ve never been to before) and I was expected to enjoy activities with others (you know what I’m about to write, don’t you?). I wasn’t a thirty-something woman in need of some sort of rehab but I can relate. That’s what I love most about Gerri Hill’s books: I feel everything the characters go through. When they hurt, I hurt. When they love, I love too. Like I wrote in my review for Beautiful Accidents by Erin Zak, it’s what I’m looking for in romance novels.
And I guess that explains why I got really mad at Adam at some point. I’m sure he was sincere and all but he took advantage of Mel’s aloneness, the only reason he got her to agree to anything is because she had no one else and didn’t want to hurt his feelings and lose him. I’ll stop here because I don’t want to spoil too much but WTF, man? Yeah, I guess I’m still mad. Even though I’m sure he didn’t mean to upset her or saddle her with guilt for so long. But she’s kind and caring and while she’s strong, everything she’s had to go through as a child has left her vulnerable too, and I hate that she was hurt. I know, I know, she doesn’t exist IRL but that’s how good Hill is.
Another thing I love is how the author’s love of nature and its beauties translates into her way of describing them. It’s like I’m there, wherever there is. Whether it’s the mountains and snow storms or the desert and summer rain, I can see it.
And of course I, now more than ever, wish I had space for chicken and goats.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I know a lot of Gerri Hill’s readers love her mystery novels but I am first and foremost a fan of her romances. At Seventeen, Storms (which I translated into French, lucky me) or No Strings are some of my favorite. She keeps breaking my heart before mending it again, and it’s painful in the best way.
The scene where Erin is taken to the land reminded me of when I was a teenager and was sent to something akin to summer camp. I hated it, it was full of people I didn’t know (I’m not good with people I don’t know) in a place I’d never been to before (I’m not good with places I’ve never been to before) and I was expected to enjoy activities with others (you know what I’m about to write, don’t you?). I wasn’t a thirty-something woman in need of some sort of rehab but I can relate. That’s what I love most about Gerri Hill’s books: I feel everything the characters go through. When they hurt, I hurt. When they love, I love too. Like I wrote in my review for Beautiful Accidents by Erin Zak, it’s what I’m looking for in romance novels.
And I guess that explains why I got really mad at Adam at some point. I’m sure he was sincere and all but he took advantage of Mel’s aloneness, the only reason he got her to agree to anything is because she had no one else and didn’t want to hurt his feelings and lose him. I’ll stop here because I don’t want to spoil too much but WTF, man? Yeah, I guess I’m still mad. Even though I’m sure he didn’t mean to upset her or saddle her with guilt for so long. But she’s kind and caring and while she’s strong, everything she’s had to go through as a child has left her vulnerable too, and I hate that she was hurt. I know, I know, she doesn’t exist IRL but that’s how good Hill is.
Another thing I love is how the author’s love of nature and its beauties translates into her way of describing them. It’s like I’m there, wherever there is. Whether it’s the mountains and snow storms or the desert and summer rain, I can see it.
And of course I, now more than ever, wish I had space for chicken and goats.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 7, 2019
In a nutshell -- two troubled souls, guilt-ridden farmer Melanie (37) and self-destructive city girl Erin (33), found each other, peace and happiness. Another lovely romance by a master writer of lesfic. Gerri Hill just knows how to write a good love story. After the Summer Rain is not my favorite by her like At Seventeen or The Secret Pond, but it is a heartwarming, well told story with two likable protagonists regardless of their human imperfections. I recommend it, and am looking forward to Hill's next romance.
4 stars
September 7, 2019
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
4 stars
September 7, 2019
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
October 5, 2019
Erin Ryder is a workaholic property developer who, after a disastrous breakup, is on the path of self-destruction. After a family intervention, she is sent for three months to a secluded ranch in New Mexico to detox and heal. Her host, Melanie West, is very reserved and guarded but slowly both women start forming a friendship. When deeper feelings arise, Erin will eventually have to choose between Mel or her previous life.
This is a slow-burn romance between two very different women who are both in need of redemption and a second chance at love. In a way, this is also an opposites-attract romance. Both characters come from very different backgrounds and have contrasting experiences in romantic relationships, but somehow, there and then, they seem to be what each other needs. While one of the mains has a questionable past, her present redeeming qualities make up for her past mistakes. As usual, Ms. Hill builds up the chemistry of the mains to hot levels and despite their differences, their attraction feels realistic.
Gerri Hill is great at writing magnificent settings for all her books and this is no exception. Her depiction of the landscape of New Mexico, with its peculiar weather, is the star of this novel. There is a good deal of description of gardening and small farm chores that might not appeal to all the readers but help to create a sense of peace and tranquility that both characters seek and give them a perfect way to bond.
My main criticism is that this novel is highly predictable. There was no doubt where the plot was leading to and even Melanie’s mysterious past did not bring any excitement to the story. Even though most secondary characters were well-written, Erin’s ex seemed a bit stereotyped. For me, these issues combined with a farm theme that wasn’t particularly appealing put a damper on my enjoyment. However, if you like farms and a slow-burn romance, this might appeal to you.
Overall, an ok lesbian slow burn romance book with a beautiful natural setting. 3.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
This is a slow-burn romance between two very different women who are both in need of redemption and a second chance at love. In a way, this is also an opposites-attract romance. Both characters come from very different backgrounds and have contrasting experiences in romantic relationships, but somehow, there and then, they seem to be what each other needs. While one of the mains has a questionable past, her present redeeming qualities make up for her past mistakes. As usual, Ms. Hill builds up the chemistry of the mains to hot levels and despite their differences, their attraction feels realistic.
Gerri Hill is great at writing magnificent settings for all her books and this is no exception. Her depiction of the landscape of New Mexico, with its peculiar weather, is the star of this novel. There is a good deal of description of gardening and small farm chores that might not appeal to all the readers but help to create a sense of peace and tranquility that both characters seek and give them a perfect way to bond.
My main criticism is that this novel is highly predictable. There was no doubt where the plot was leading to and even Melanie’s mysterious past did not bring any excitement to the story. Even though most secondary characters were well-written, Erin’s ex seemed a bit stereotyped. For me, these issues combined with a farm theme that wasn’t particularly appealing put a damper on my enjoyment. However, if you like farms and a slow-burn romance, this might appeal to you.
Overall, an ok lesbian slow burn romance book with a beautiful natural setting. 3.5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
September 17, 2019
Erin is a workaholic. She is practically killing herself after throwing herself into her work to avoid the aftermath of a bad breakup. Her family creates and 'intervention' and sends her to cleanse her soul for 3 months. The place her sister booked is a crunchy old lady "womyn's" cult. Melanie is the youngest and last resident to hide from society and ends up having to host Erin for her lengthy stay.
This is a sweet love story between two women that were subconsciously trying to harm themselves until finding a fulfilling life of gardening and companionship.
I think I felt the stress roll off my body just reading about tossing scratch, bopping goat noses, pulling veggies, hot springs, and porches. A vacation off the grid sounds very appealing now.
There was a small amount of angst as it related to Melanie's past. And a bit more toward the end as the two leads wrecked themselves over each other for a bit. I cried. That is always the sign of a decently written romance.
I only have a couple of critiques that are more personal preference than anything. The dialogue of the 30-something main characters felt more mature as if they were the 70-year-old residents. And I REALLY despise the term 'lovers,' (Sorry Taylor Swift. You sound good singing it, but no.). It was used. Too often. As well as 'making love'' even when what they were doing was just casual and temporary.
Overall, it was a sweet story in a unique setting. Worth reading.
I recommend to those who like to read about romance, bad break-ups, gardening, vegetarian eating, chickens, goats, Walmart clothing, and red bull.
I received an ARC from Bella Books for an honest review.
This is a sweet love story between two women that were subconsciously trying to harm themselves until finding a fulfilling life of gardening and companionship.
I think I felt the stress roll off my body just reading about tossing scratch, bopping goat noses, pulling veggies, hot springs, and porches. A vacation off the grid sounds very appealing now.
There was a small amount of angst as it related to Melanie's past. And a bit more toward the end as the two leads wrecked themselves over each other for a bit. I cried. That is always the sign of a decently written romance.
I only have a couple of critiques that are more personal preference than anything. The dialogue of the 30-something main characters felt more mature as if they were the 70-year-old residents. And I REALLY despise the term 'lovers,' (Sorry Taylor Swift. You sound good singing it, but no.). It was used. Too often. As well as 'making love'' even when what they were doing was just casual and temporary.
Overall, it was a sweet story in a unique setting. Worth reading.
I recommend to those who like to read about romance, bad break-ups, gardening, vegetarian eating, chickens, goats, Walmart clothing, and red bull.
I received an ARC from Bella Books for an honest review.
September 30, 2019
I’m a big fan of Hills books. I love her writing style, her stories and even more all the characters she creates.
After the Summer Rain is a really slow slow burn romance. I took me some time to get invested in the story but it was worth it, this is a beautiful love story. The two main characters Erin and Melanie are real women, both with a haunting past. The best part of the book was Hills describing how they slowly changed from strangers to friends to becoming lovers to fall in love with each other.
Hill is also very good at depicting the surroundings, the farm, all the animals, the landscape and all the supporting characters. It’s always the whole picture you get from this author.
It is also a book about healing, about recognizing and forgiving your own mistakes.
Recommended to all romance fans.
My rating 4 stars.
After the Summer Rain is a really slow slow burn romance. I took me some time to get invested in the story but it was worth it, this is a beautiful love story. The two main characters Erin and Melanie are real women, both with a haunting past. The best part of the book was Hills describing how they slowly changed from strangers to friends to becoming lovers to fall in love with each other.
Hill is also very good at depicting the surroundings, the farm, all the animals, the landscape and all the supporting characters. It’s always the whole picture you get from this author.
It is also a book about healing, about recognizing and forgiving your own mistakes.
Recommended to all romance fans.
My rating 4 stars.
January 14, 2021
4.25 stars. I’m a fan of Hill’s books, so I expected to enjoy this, but I did not expect to like it this much as I normally prefer Hill’s mystery books over the romances. Maybe it’s the time of year, the shitty things that are currently happening in the world, or just my general mood, but this sweet and gentle romance was apparently just what I needed.
The book is set in a community in the middle of nowhere, New Mexico, with two mains that are both emotionally burdened. The community consists of women only that for some reason wanted to escape the ‘real’ world. They all live pretty much self-sustainable but have to host some guests from time to time to get funds for repairs or emergencies. It’s Mel’s turn to host and her guest for three months is Erin. Mel is a bit of a hermit and is not looking forward to host a guest. Erin, however, is not your standard guest. She’s is forced into this stay by her family, to protect her from her self-destructive behavior, so we have two people forced to stay together in a small cabin for three months.
Obviously, not a whole lot happens in this book as the day-to-day activities consist of tending to the vegetable garden and the farm animals, but this book didn’t bore me for a second. Mel and Erin are dealing with their personal issues and slowly become friends and more. Their development is so well done, their emotions so real, I really felt the melancholy, the loneliness and desperation, searching for something that brings value to their lives and finally finding this in each other.
A wonderful book, low on angst and very sweet, great to escape the world for a while!
The book is set in a community in the middle of nowhere, New Mexico, with two mains that are both emotionally burdened. The community consists of women only that for some reason wanted to escape the ‘real’ world. They all live pretty much self-sustainable but have to host some guests from time to time to get funds for repairs or emergencies. It’s Mel’s turn to host and her guest for three months is Erin. Mel is a bit of a hermit and is not looking forward to host a guest. Erin, however, is not your standard guest. She’s is forced into this stay by her family, to protect her from her self-destructive behavior, so we have two people forced to stay together in a small cabin for three months.
Obviously, not a whole lot happens in this book as the day-to-day activities consist of tending to the vegetable garden and the farm animals, but this book didn’t bore me for a second. Mel and Erin are dealing with their personal issues and slowly become friends and more. Their development is so well done, their emotions so real, I really felt the melancholy, the loneliness and desperation, searching for something that brings value to their lives and finally finding this in each other.
A wonderful book, low on angst and very sweet, great to escape the world for a while!
September 9, 2019
Gerri Hill is one of my favorite authors. I’ve read and loved her books ever since I found Tori and Sam in the Hunter series.
I knew I would be getting her newest romance, After the Summer Rain , just as soon as it was published. I was extremely fortunate to be gifted an ARC by Bella Books and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review, but I would have happily paid for it.
This novel is a pure romance. It’s about Erin Ryder and Melanie (Mel) West. Both women are dealing with trauma and failures. Mel moved to Eagle Bluff Ranch seven years before the story begins, and made a small farm. Eagle Bluff Ranch is a “womyn’s community”, where lesbians could all live in their own homes. Mel, a self-described hermit, values her privacy and wants to live as far from the others as she can possibly get. Her only contact with the outside world is monthly visits to the nearest town for supplies and the monthly dinners with the other residents of the ranch. She occasionally hosts guests who visit the ranch each year, and this year she ended up hosting Erin.
A family intervention forced Erin to stay at the ranch for three months before she killed herself with work, caffeine, and booze. After a rocky start, the two women slowly become friends, and end up helping each other heal from their emotional wounds as they tend the farm and animals. But even as this friendship deepens, the end of their time together looms.
As with all of Ms. Hill’s books, this story has a vibrant and stunning setting with strong characters and an intriguing story line. I felt all of the emotions that Erin was going through when she was forced to go to the ranch. I felt her slowly begin to heal as her body recovered from the excesses she had put it through. It was also wonderful seeing the two characters grow together. This is a beautiful story even with the angst that runs through it.
I probably would have picked this book even without the author’s name attached, simply because of the cover. The easiest way to get me to buy a book is to put cute animal faces on the cover. The picture of Rosie (or Nora) the goat as well as the lovely hummingbird and flower would have had me hitting the ‘pay now’ button. I’m a sucker for a cute face, even if it does remind me of the time I was locked in the chicken coop by Allie (a friend’s pet goat) who then refused to let my partner into the shed to get me out. Goats can be devilish little creatures even with those sweet faces.
I loved this story and it is going into my favorites folder. If you love a good romance that makes you go “aww”, and maybe even shed a tear or two, then this book is definitely for you.
I knew I would be getting her newest romance, After the Summer Rain , just as soon as it was published. I was extremely fortunate to be gifted an ARC by Bella Books and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review, but I would have happily paid for it.
This novel is a pure romance. It’s about Erin Ryder and Melanie (Mel) West. Both women are dealing with trauma and failures. Mel moved to Eagle Bluff Ranch seven years before the story begins, and made a small farm. Eagle Bluff Ranch is a “womyn’s community”, where lesbians could all live in their own homes. Mel, a self-described hermit, values her privacy and wants to live as far from the others as she can possibly get. Her only contact with the outside world is monthly visits to the nearest town for supplies and the monthly dinners with the other residents of the ranch. She occasionally hosts guests who visit the ranch each year, and this year she ended up hosting Erin.
A family intervention forced Erin to stay at the ranch for three months before she killed herself with work, caffeine, and booze. After a rocky start, the two women slowly become friends, and end up helping each other heal from their emotional wounds as they tend the farm and animals. But even as this friendship deepens, the end of their time together looms.
As with all of Ms. Hill’s books, this story has a vibrant and stunning setting with strong characters and an intriguing story line. I felt all of the emotions that Erin was going through when she was forced to go to the ranch. I felt her slowly begin to heal as her body recovered from the excesses she had put it through. It was also wonderful seeing the two characters grow together. This is a beautiful story even with the angst that runs through it.
I probably would have picked this book even without the author’s name attached, simply because of the cover. The easiest way to get me to buy a book is to put cute animal faces on the cover. The picture of Rosie (or Nora) the goat as well as the lovely hummingbird and flower would have had me hitting the ‘pay now’ button. I’m a sucker for a cute face, even if it does remind me of the time I was locked in the chicken coop by Allie (a friend’s pet goat) who then refused to let my partner into the shed to get me out. Goats can be devilish little creatures even with those sweet faces.
I loved this story and it is going into my favorites folder. If you love a good romance that makes you go “aww”, and maybe even shed a tear or two, then this book is definitely for you.
February 27, 2021
I am a fan of Hill so my expectations of this book were high. Though this is not one of my favourites by Hill I still thought it was great and enjoyed it very much. The writing as always was very good. The story a gentle romance which suited me fine. I’ll read this book again sometime, that means an above 4 star rating or me. 4.4 stars. I am already looking forward to the next book.
January 3, 2023
High 3+
A lovely sweet read with likeable main characters
A lovely sweet read with likeable main characters
September 22, 2019
4.5*
Gerri Hill is simply one of the best romance writers in the genre. This is an archetypal Hill, slightly unusual characters in a slightly unusual setting. The slow burn romance, however, is a classic, trying not to fall in love, but unable to fight the pull.
Mel had a traumatic childhood; married for all the wrong reasons and carrying the guilt of destroying her best friend’s life. She has retreated to womyn’s land and spends her isolated days tending the goats, chickens and garden that have healed her mind if not her heart.
Erin was left broken hearted when her girlfriend of 6 years left – boasting she had been cheating for two years – and lost herself in work, to the detriment of her physical and mental health. When they are brought together by Erin’s family’s intervention, sending Erin to the womyn’s land as a retreat/detox for three months, their worlds could not be further apart. But sometimes hearts need nothing but time and quiet to heal, and find their missing pieces.
The characters are endearing and you simply cannot help engage with the older women who have lived on the land for years; when escape from homophobic patriarchal society seemed the best way to be free. Mel and Erin capture your heart from the first moment, however strung out Erin is from caffeine and the consequent crash.
The romance pulls you in, the lack of angst is a refreshing change, and the will she won’t she climax worth the wait. It’s a slow sensual tug on your heart, reminding us that not everything that glitters is worth the loss of our souls and social/partner expectation can destroy us. It reminded me of “Gaining Ground” by Joan Barfoot, a novel I read many times in my 20’s when the concept of isolation seemed immensely attractive. I love many of Gerri Hill’s books for many reasons and this one is right up there for me as an exquisitely gentle balm to the heart.
Gerri Hill is simply one of the best romance writers in the genre. This is an archetypal Hill, slightly unusual characters in a slightly unusual setting. The slow burn romance, however, is a classic, trying not to fall in love, but unable to fight the pull.
Mel had a traumatic childhood; married for all the wrong reasons and carrying the guilt of destroying her best friend’s life. She has retreated to womyn’s land and spends her isolated days tending the goats, chickens and garden that have healed her mind if not her heart.
Erin was left broken hearted when her girlfriend of 6 years left – boasting she had been cheating for two years – and lost herself in work, to the detriment of her physical and mental health. When they are brought together by Erin’s family’s intervention, sending Erin to the womyn’s land as a retreat/detox for three months, their worlds could not be further apart. But sometimes hearts need nothing but time and quiet to heal, and find their missing pieces.
The characters are endearing and you simply cannot help engage with the older women who have lived on the land for years; when escape from homophobic patriarchal society seemed the best way to be free. Mel and Erin capture your heart from the first moment, however strung out Erin is from caffeine and the consequent crash.
The romance pulls you in, the lack of angst is a refreshing change, and the will she won’t she climax worth the wait. It’s a slow sensual tug on your heart, reminding us that not everything that glitters is worth the loss of our souls and social/partner expectation can destroy us. It reminded me of “Gaining Ground” by Joan Barfoot, a novel I read many times in my 20’s when the concept of isolation seemed immensely attractive. I love many of Gerri Hill’s books for many reasons and this one is right up there for me as an exquisitely gentle balm to the heart.
June 13, 2021
A sweet lovely story about overcoming past hurt and becoming who you really are.
Mel, 37, leads a hermits life in her cabin with her chickens, goats and vegetable garden. She feels a lot of guilt from past hurts and now lives in a cooperative community of older ladies who seek to avoid most of society and be self sustaining. Apart from a few paying guests they get each year.
Erin, 33, has been working herself ragged after a breakup, living on redbull and alcohol, turning into a not very nice or healthy person. Her sister and father give her an ultimatum and send her away to the community where Mel lives, to detox and heal for 3 months.
The two women have a lot of pain and guilt from their respective pasts to overcome, but manage to do that together over their months working the land, enjoying nature, and getting to know and trust one another
I loved the beauty of the simplistic yet hard working life they had together on the farm. It all seemed so very honest and wholesome. To grow your own food and be self sufficient. Enjoying the earth and it's bounty. Leaving society's BS behind.
It utterly charmed me. As did the characters in their vulnerabilities with eachother and having the strength to choose healing and moving on with love and trust.
Mel, 37, leads a hermits life in her cabin with her chickens, goats and vegetable garden. She feels a lot of guilt from past hurts and now lives in a cooperative community of older ladies who seek to avoid most of society and be self sustaining. Apart from a few paying guests they get each year.
Erin, 33, has been working herself ragged after a breakup, living on redbull and alcohol, turning into a not very nice or healthy person. Her sister and father give her an ultimatum and send her away to the community where Mel lives, to detox and heal for 3 months.
The two women have a lot of pain and guilt from their respective pasts to overcome, but manage to do that together over their months working the land, enjoying nature, and getting to know and trust one another
I loved the beauty of the simplistic yet hard working life they had together on the farm. It all seemed so very honest and wholesome. To grow your own food and be self sufficient. Enjoying the earth and it's bounty. Leaving society's BS behind.
It utterly charmed me. As did the characters in their vulnerabilities with eachother and having the strength to choose healing and moving on with love and trust.
December 27, 2019
Workaholic Erin Ryder is shipped to a women's only ranch in the middle of nowhere for a 90-day stay by her family where she meets the seven year veteran Melanie and a connection is made between the two women.
This was a very emotional and empowering read, MC's are well written, their communication is excellent, Gerri Hill's dialogue never fails in my opinion.
Here we have two women with a lot of emotional baggage with Erin's breakup and humiliation, her working herself to death to not think about it and Melanie's failed marriage and the unintended repercussions of that, coming together with no intentions of finding love. It could have been a lot heavier read but you know that Gerri Hill is the master of comfortable HEA romances and this story is no different, it does demand introspection but won't send you spiraling into the void.
The setting helps with that, Eagle Bluff Ranch, I found myself wishing to spend a few days there just to detox from the "real world" for a second but God knows I would not survive without WiFi for 24 hours.
Anyways, another excellent read from Gerri Hill.
This was a very emotional and empowering read, MC's are well written, their communication is excellent, Gerri Hill's dialogue never fails in my opinion.
Here we have two women with a lot of emotional baggage with Erin's breakup and humiliation, her working herself to death to not think about it and Melanie's failed marriage and the unintended repercussions of that, coming together with no intentions of finding love. It could have been a lot heavier read but you know that Gerri Hill is the master of comfortable HEA romances and this story is no different, it does demand introspection but won't send you spiraling into the void.
The setting helps with that, Eagle Bluff Ranch, I found myself wishing to spend a few days there just to detox from the "real world" for a second but God knows I would not survive without WiFi for 24 hours.
Anyways, another excellent read from Gerri Hill.
September 9, 2019
4.25 to 4.5
Hard to believe, but this is the first contemporary romance by Gerri Hill that I've read. Over the years, I've picked up some of her mystery and crime stories as those were the ones that caught my eye. I enjoyed some, was disappointed with others but never really gave a second look at her romances. Romance, schmomance. What do you know, I just finished After the Summer Rain (devoured it in less than a day) and it turns out that I should have been reading her romances instead.
After the Summer Rain is a wonderfully heartfelt romance that avoids all the angsty drama-filled tropes you often find in romances. This is all about the characters and Hill brings Erin and Melanie to life with a remarkable level of maturity and honesty.
The novel begins with an intervention - Erin Ryder has spent the last 18 months driving herself harder and harder with work, allowing it to consume her by slowly destroying her health and her relationships with those around her. Her father and sister issue an ultimatum - Erin needs to take a complete break for three months or she will lose her job. She's packed off to spend three months at an isolated ranch in New Mexico run by a group of aging lesbians who had originally set up the 700 acres as Womyn's country and now offer guests an opportunity to stay in an environment that offers little distraction and lots of opportunity for introspection.
At 37, Melanie West is the youngest resident on the ranch. When she arrived, she was looking for a refuge to heal, her life spiraling in a pattern of self-destruction, guilt and regret. Seven years later, she's established a life on the ranch with a small house and garden - living self-sufficiently and content with her own company. Independent, calm and measured, Mel is a wonderfully solid character - but the ghosts of guilt and regret fuel her need for privacy and isolation. With some reluctance, she takes her turn in hosting Erin during her three month stay.
The relationship grows organically with no hint of insta-attraction or insta-love. Neither one is looking for a relationship or even a friendship - but with little outside distraction, both women begin to form a natural friendship based on sharing both physical labour of maintaining Mel's homestead and emotional support as they both examine and talk about what has brought them to the ranch. The conversations between the two are frank and honest. There's a nice balance between the two women - Erin needs the quiet and calm of the ranch to realize what has driven her so hard and for so long while Mel needs the presence of someone who will listen and accept. By the time that they begin to acknowledge an attraction there's a wonderful sense of intimacy and vulnerability between the two - they've shared so much emotionally that progressing to a more physical relationship is natural and wonderfully portrayed. There's some trepidation and hesitancy but the emotional connection is almost tangible.
The pace is relaxed, fitting with the setting, and Hill takes her time in building both the characters and their relationship - despite there not being a lot of exterior plot drivers I never found the story dragging or boring. Mel and Erin were more than enough to keep my interest and Hill reveals more about each character's past as the story progresses. I really enjoyed this one.
All in all - a really great romance.
Definitely Recommended
Thank you to Bella for providing an advance copy for an honest review. This book will be released mid September 2019.
Hard to believe, but this is the first contemporary romance by Gerri Hill that I've read. Over the years, I've picked up some of her mystery and crime stories as those were the ones that caught my eye. I enjoyed some, was disappointed with others but never really gave a second look at her romances. Romance, schmomance. What do you know, I just finished After the Summer Rain (devoured it in less than a day) and it turns out that I should have been reading her romances instead.
After the Summer Rain is a wonderfully heartfelt romance that avoids all the angsty drama-filled tropes you often find in romances. This is all about the characters and Hill brings Erin and Melanie to life with a remarkable level of maturity and honesty.
The novel begins with an intervention - Erin Ryder has spent the last 18 months driving herself harder and harder with work, allowing it to consume her by slowly destroying her health and her relationships with those around her. Her father and sister issue an ultimatum - Erin needs to take a complete break for three months or she will lose her job. She's packed off to spend three months at an isolated ranch in New Mexico run by a group of aging lesbians who had originally set up the 700 acres as Womyn's country and now offer guests an opportunity to stay in an environment that offers little distraction and lots of opportunity for introspection.
At 37, Melanie West is the youngest resident on the ranch. When she arrived, she was looking for a refuge to heal, her life spiraling in a pattern of self-destruction, guilt and regret. Seven years later, she's established a life on the ranch with a small house and garden - living self-sufficiently and content with her own company. Independent, calm and measured, Mel is a wonderfully solid character - but the ghosts of guilt and regret fuel her need for privacy and isolation. With some reluctance, she takes her turn in hosting Erin during her three month stay.
The relationship grows organically with no hint of insta-attraction or insta-love. Neither one is looking for a relationship or even a friendship - but with little outside distraction, both women begin to form a natural friendship based on sharing both physical labour of maintaining Mel's homestead and emotional support as they both examine and talk about what has brought them to the ranch. The conversations between the two are frank and honest. There's a nice balance between the two women - Erin needs the quiet and calm of the ranch to realize what has driven her so hard and for so long while Mel needs the presence of someone who will listen and accept. By the time that they begin to acknowledge an attraction there's a wonderful sense of intimacy and vulnerability between the two - they've shared so much emotionally that progressing to a more physical relationship is natural and wonderfully portrayed. There's some trepidation and hesitancy but the emotional connection is almost tangible.
The pace is relaxed, fitting with the setting, and Hill takes her time in building both the characters and their relationship - despite there not being a lot of exterior plot drivers I never found the story dragging or boring. Mel and Erin were more than enough to keep my interest and Hill reveals more about each character's past as the story progresses. I really enjoyed this one.
All in all - a really great romance.
Definitely Recommended
Thank you to Bella for providing an advance copy for an honest review. This book will be released mid September 2019.
February 9, 2025
**Latest review from January 2025**
This was one of my first reads from Gerri Hill and I wanted to return to it via audiobook to see if I would love it as much. I absolutely did (thankfully) and it was so lovely returning to Erin and Melanie's charming romance with the most amazing setting 🥰🥰
**Original review from May 2021**
I'm new to the Gerri Hill fan club but I am definitely happy to be a member. I love the author's writing style - it's detailed and descriptive but without any fanfare either. The way she sets her scenes through setting is my favourite aspect of her novels (that I've read so far!). I love being able to picture where the characters are not only in the larger concept (such as state/city) but also in the nuances like the chalet these two inhabit together for the majority of the novel. I felt as though I could picture it all - the living space, the outside garden and the whole landscape. It was lovely to feel so engrossed in the setting and story.
I am so happy Gerri Hill has been a prolific writer before I found her novels - I now have a lot of great reading content in my future.
This was one of my first reads from Gerri Hill and I wanted to return to it via audiobook to see if I would love it as much. I absolutely did (thankfully) and it was so lovely returning to Erin and Melanie's charming romance with the most amazing setting 🥰🥰
**Original review from May 2021**
I'm new to the Gerri Hill fan club but I am definitely happy to be a member. I love the author's writing style - it's detailed and descriptive but without any fanfare either. The way she sets her scenes through setting is my favourite aspect of her novels (that I've read so far!). I love being able to picture where the characters are not only in the larger concept (such as state/city) but also in the nuances like the chalet these two inhabit together for the majority of the novel. I felt as though I could picture it all - the living space, the outside garden and the whole landscape. It was lovely to feel so engrossed in the setting and story.
I am so happy Gerri Hill has been a prolific writer before I found her novels - I now have a lot of great reading content in my future.
September 18, 2021
2/10
As a Goodreads friend said - ouch indeed.
Worth the 22$ that were spent on the paperback?
Take your girl out for drinks instead. 11/10.
I have a lot of Gerri Hill books on my tbr and I was really wanting to like this book since three of Hill’s books that I’ve read have been okay (3 star ratings) and the 4th one, The Roundabout, has been a real disaster with a biga*s problem (written the review about it already). So, naturally, I was hoping that After the Summer Rain will redeem that one.
Bad move.
I was having too many expectations so it’s partially my fault as well, I guess.
// What I think would’ve improved the story a lot?
/ slow burn with real chemistry between the MCs
/ expending the world a lot by getting to know the side characters
/ really getting the feel of 3 months passing by seeing the MCs interact way more with - well, everyone really, grow together and by themselves as well (to avoid all the 3 page chapters where you just get the feeling of reading some kind if checklist I guess)
/ not wasting the words and pages for the same conversations over and over again and instead trying the things up there
// Me being mostly mean:
I did find the secluded tribe of gay women weird but I was expecting it from reading the blurb and it actually grew on me once I got into the story. Kinda.
The beginning was okay but wasn’t giving me much hope. Thought I still did hope it would get better. And it DID. For a bit at least but without feeling any of the chemistry between the MCs I found them kissing and being sooo in love. Very forced. If you’ve read some of my other reviews you know that instant love is definitely not my thing. Like at all. That turn off was at about 50%. I was not looking forward towards reading the rest since I knew what was coming. The almost endless cycle of push and pull and angst. It was worse than I expected and found myself hurrying to just get to the last chapter so I could start a new book. (Yes, I would usually just stop reading the book there but the money was spent :( )
You don’t really get to know the side characters as they’re two dimensional but the little things you do get to know (towards the end) is nice so I wish more thought was given when creating them.
Should’ve taken a shot every time I read “Red Bull”. Never had it in my life but after reading it so many times I feel like I’m a veteran in their compny.
The ex was just there so the whole book I was waiting for author to play the ex card. Probably some people like this kind of thing, though, and find the well known formula working for them.
The MCs were likable enough (saying this because you really weren’t given a chance to get to know them hence get to liking them or feeling any feelings towards them really). And I do think it was well written (as expected) when it comes to the characters’ POVs but the whole story didn’t feel well thought out - like the author got an idea but lost themselves in it and couldn’t find the way out. So we got the repetitiveness. And I got boredom.
There are supossed to be like 5 months in the story but the writing and pacing when it comes to the romantic aspect was so weird and unnatural that it felt like a week tops.
While I do realize I can be a jerk you gotta know that I’ve read better Wattpad stories for free AND this being the book I spent the most money EVER on got me somewhere between sad and mad. :(
If you’re into angsty and repetitive stuff grab this one I guess?
As a Goodreads friend said - ouch indeed.
Worth the 22$ that were spent on the paperback?
Take your girl out for drinks instead. 11/10.
I have a lot of Gerri Hill books on my tbr and I was really wanting to like this book since three of Hill’s books that I’ve read have been okay (3 star ratings) and the 4th one, The Roundabout, has been a real disaster with a biga*s problem (written the review about it already). So, naturally, I was hoping that After the Summer Rain will redeem that one.
Bad move.
I was having too many expectations so it’s partially my fault as well, I guess.
// What I think would’ve improved the story a lot?
/ slow burn with real chemistry between the MCs
/ expending the world a lot by getting to know the side characters
/ really getting the feel of 3 months passing by seeing the MCs interact way more with - well, everyone really, grow together and by themselves as well (to avoid all the 3 page chapters where you just get the feeling of reading some kind if checklist I guess)
/ not wasting the words and pages for the same conversations over and over again and instead trying the things up there
// Me being mostly mean:
I did find the secluded tribe of gay women weird but I was expecting it from reading the blurb and it actually grew on me once I got into the story. Kinda.
The beginning was okay but wasn’t giving me much hope. Thought I still did hope it would get better. And it DID. For a bit at least but without feeling any of the chemistry between the MCs I found them kissing and being sooo in love. Very forced. If you’ve read some of my other reviews you know that instant love is definitely not my thing. Like at all. That turn off was at about 50%. I was not looking forward towards reading the rest since I knew what was coming. The almost endless cycle of push and pull and angst. It was worse than I expected and found myself hurrying to just get to the last chapter so I could start a new book. (Yes, I would usually just stop reading the book there but the money was spent :( )
You don’t really get to know the side characters as they’re two dimensional but the little things you do get to know (towards the end) is nice so I wish more thought was given when creating them.
Should’ve taken a shot every time I read “Red Bull”. Never had it in my life but after reading it so many times I feel like I’m a veteran in their compny.
The ex was just there so the whole book I was waiting for author to play the ex card. Probably some people like this kind of thing, though, and find the well known formula working for them.
The MCs were likable enough (saying this because you really weren’t given a chance to get to know them hence get to liking them or feeling any feelings towards them really). And I do think it was well written (as expected) when it comes to the characters’ POVs but the whole story didn’t feel well thought out - like the author got an idea but lost themselves in it and couldn’t find the way out. So we got the repetitiveness. And I got boredom.
There are supossed to be like 5 months in the story but the writing and pacing when it comes to the romantic aspect was so weird and unnatural that it felt like a week tops.
While I do realize I can be a jerk you gotta know that I’ve read better Wattpad stories for free AND this being the book I spent the most money EVER on got me somewhere between sad and mad. :(
If you’re into angsty and repetitive stuff grab this one I guess?
November 30, 2019
What an absolutely beautiful story! Gerri Hill's writing is second to none in the lesfic genre - certainly one of the best in the business. This will be one of those books that I revisit again and again because it felt pretty flipping perfect to me. It's amazing that after 36 books now, she's still able to weave a fresh tale and keep her romances swoon-worthy. Loved the plot, loved the characters, loved the slow burn....loved that I ached wanting to see them end up together so badly. I saved this book for the long holiday weekend since Gerri is one of my all-time favorite writers and I'm so glad I did. What a treat! Loved it.
August 10, 2024
Gerri Hill, the legend that you are.
Farm life, slow life, living in the present. That's the goal. Now I need to try find a similar community for myself.
Farm life, slow life, living in the present. That's the goal. Now I need to try find a similar community for myself.
August 25, 2024
This was on my Kindle to-read list but I never clicked the button until last week. Mainly because…the cover wasn’t really appealing. But I’m so glad I did because this book was brilliant!!
December 1, 2019
This one was a surprise. I was not sure what to expect with that cover. Thankfully it was much better than what I was hoping for. Available through Audible’s Escape package. Straight forward story for the most part. Skip if you like angst, which I usually do btw. The conflict came with the logistics of their lives, not with hidden truths or fears. Rapidly becoming a big Hill fan.
Audio narration was good too by Zanzarella.
Audio narration was good too by Zanzarella.
October 29, 2019
Erin really did an about face! I loved the setting in this book and I liked seeing how both Erin and Melanie grew together, and respectively, on their own. Their relationship was built on a strong foundation of friendship and I dig that.
July 19, 2020
Im not sure which was more alluring, the farm or its occupant, Mel.
Erin, city girl, after a break up, works too hard, drinks too much and eats too little. her family is so worried about her they send her to a new mexico retreat. most of the story is about her 3 months cleaning stalls, feeding chickens, playing with the twin goats and playing in the creek with Melanie. it is wonderful and she evolves into a healthy loving woman again. but then the 3 months are up and she must return to her old life.
Its a wonderful love story and both women mutually grow, heal and love.
the ending is predictable but very rich and the way you want it.
I had the audio version and the narrator, Nicol Zanzarella was terrific. she made the book come alive.
Erin, city girl, after a break up, works too hard, drinks too much and eats too little. her family is so worried about her they send her to a new mexico retreat. most of the story is about her 3 months cleaning stalls, feeding chickens, playing with the twin goats and playing in the creek with Melanie. it is wonderful and she evolves into a healthy loving woman again. but then the 3 months are up and she must return to her old life.
Its a wonderful love story and both women mutually grow, heal and love.
the ending is predictable but very rich and the way you want it.
I had the audio version and the narrator, Nicol Zanzarella was terrific. she made the book come alive.
September 20, 2019
This is a sweet romance about giving people a second chance. This has a lot of the hallmarks of Gerri Hill's formula : a blonde and a brunette, the southwest, being in nature to heal, and some good doses of angst.
Melanie and Erin are extremely similar: they both have self destructive tendancies that almost kill them, but very good people at heart. I think both characters described the other as being "lost". It is perfectly apt, as their feelings did overwhelm them until their epiphanies. With Mel, she is still dealing with her guilt when she meets Erin by being a recluse. Erin dealt with losing who she thought was the love of her life by being so destructive to her own body that she was slowly killing herself. But they find some healing with each other and with the isolated community Erin was sent to. Honestly, it was interesting to see someone who was close to being a full blown addict step away from that edge when losing her triggers, and focusing on just being. I liked that a lot about Erin's arc, and wasn't surprised too much when she seemed to recover faster than Mel, who's trauma was much more twisted.
Gerri Hill has her formula and she doesn't do much with it, which, if your a fan of warm, comfy romances, she does it well. I don't think this was one of her strongest romances, but it is a great read when waiting for that storm to pass.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Melanie and Erin are extremely similar: they both have self destructive tendancies that almost kill them, but very good people at heart. I think both characters described the other as being "lost". It is perfectly apt, as their feelings did overwhelm them until their epiphanies. With Mel, she is still dealing with her guilt when she meets Erin by being a recluse. Erin dealt with losing who she thought was the love of her life by being so destructive to her own body that she was slowly killing herself. But they find some healing with each other and with the isolated community Erin was sent to. Honestly, it was interesting to see someone who was close to being a full blown addict step away from that edge when losing her triggers, and focusing on just being. I liked that a lot about Erin's arc, and wasn't surprised too much when she seemed to recover faster than Mel, who's trauma was much more twisted.
Gerri Hill has her formula and she doesn't do much with it, which, if your a fan of warm, comfy romances, she does it well. I don't think this was one of her strongest romances, but it is a great read when waiting for that storm to pass.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 26, 2019
This is one of my favourite non-mysteries by Gerri Hill. This was a really lovely world she created, and definitely makes me want to have a little garden and chickens and goats!
Erin has very nearly worked herself to death when her sister intervenes and sends her to a small womyn's ranch community in New Mexico to sleep, eat, and heal. Erin finds herself rooming with Melanie, one of the youngest women in the community, who is working through her own baggage on her simple farm. At first she curses the lack of cell service, internet, television, and meat. Soon she learns to embrace the simple living and soon finds herself growing closer to the woman who all but saved her life.
These characters were some of my favourite characters in Gerri Hill's books. There were so many beautiful stories woven into the secondary characters and our leading ladies were nuanced and complex and ultimately lovable. I've said it before but I'll say it again, this little community is something special. I can only hope that it's out there and real and saving someone's life right now. The food and the farm was almost a character itself which made for such a warm and cozy book.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Erin has very nearly worked herself to death when her sister intervenes and sends her to a small womyn's ranch community in New Mexico to sleep, eat, and heal. Erin finds herself rooming with Melanie, one of the youngest women in the community, who is working through her own baggage on her simple farm. At first she curses the lack of cell service, internet, television, and meat. Soon she learns to embrace the simple living and soon finds herself growing closer to the woman who all but saved her life.
These characters were some of my favourite characters in Gerri Hill's books. There were so many beautiful stories woven into the secondary characters and our leading ladies were nuanced and complex and ultimately lovable. I've said it before but I'll say it again, this little community is something special. I can only hope that it's out there and real and saving someone's life right now. The food and the farm was almost a character itself which made for such a warm and cozy book.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2021
Really enjoyed this book - my 22nd of GH and she never disappoints (except Paradox Valley and least said, soonest mended). It was a sort of fairy story, flowed well as you'd expect with such a sure-footed author - enjoyable and recommended.
October 19, 2024
tw: depression, suicide
This novel is a heartfelt story about healing and romance set in a beautiful farm. While it deals with tough themes like depression and suicide, it ultimately feels comforting and uplifting.
Hill, once again, paints such vivid pictures of the setting and the characters' lives that it’s easy to get lost in the story. Reading this book was a perfect escape from my everyday worries—making me want to go outside and be kissed by the sun!
As for the romance between Erin and Melanie, it develops slowly but beautifully. At first, I thought their relationship is quite cold, especially on Melanie's POV, which creates a real sense of distance. I felt no instant chemistry between them. But as the story unfolds, their bond grows from a cold host-and-guest situation into a warm friendship, eventually sparking a sweet romance. Hill's pacing is just right; everything feels natural and not rushed.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel. It has all the charm of Gerri Hill's small-town romances: relatable characters, picturesque settings, and adorable animals. It’s a delightful read that reminds me of the healing power of love and connection.
This novel is a heartfelt story about healing and romance set in a beautiful farm. While it deals with tough themes like depression and suicide, it ultimately feels comforting and uplifting.
Hill, once again, paints such vivid pictures of the setting and the characters' lives that it’s easy to get lost in the story. Reading this book was a perfect escape from my everyday worries—making me want to go outside and be kissed by the sun!
As for the romance between Erin and Melanie, it develops slowly but beautifully. At first, I thought their relationship is quite cold, especially on Melanie's POV, which creates a real sense of distance. I felt no instant chemistry between them. But as the story unfolds, their bond grows from a cold host-and-guest situation into a warm friendship, eventually sparking a sweet romance. Hill's pacing is just right; everything feels natural and not rushed.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel. It has all the charm of Gerri Hill's small-town romances: relatable characters, picturesque settings, and adorable animals. It’s a delightful read that reminds me of the healing power of love and connection.
September 2, 2021
3.5 This was a decent story. I don’t really ever give Gerri Hill anything less than a 3.5. She’s a great writer and story teller. This was pretty repetitive. I liked the story itself and the points it made. It was a good reminder to take life less seriously and more slowly. This was not one of Hill’s better books in my opinion. It was quite boring at times and does repeat things often.
December 28, 2025
*** 4.29 ***
Slow, leisurely and really touching...
Slow, leisurely and really touching...
December 24, 2021
4.7 star rating
Life and chances is what I suppose this story is about...and what a sweet one. Here we have a more or less forced rehabilitation that started predictable, transformed into an appreciation for living and ended with a fulfilling heart.
The author did a great job not just on the romance aspect but more for me on the farm living and 'finding oneself'. The back and forth longings took some getting used to but eventually I came to embrace it all.
Life and chances is what I suppose this story is about...and what a sweet one. Here we have a more or less forced rehabilitation that started predictable, transformed into an appreciation for living and ended with a fulfilling heart.
The author did a great job not just on the romance aspect but more for me on the farm living and 'finding oneself'. The back and forth longings took some getting used to but eventually I came to embrace it all.
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