Inheriting the Farmhouse

Havenwood Cowboys #1

by Catelyn Meadows

From bestselling author Catelyn Meadows comes a story about a rugged cowboy, a wounded beneficiary, and the house that brings them together.

The last place she wants to be is the best place to heal her heart.

Belle Toby lost her future in a tragic accident. She left Bridgewater as soon as she could and vowed never to return.

When she unexpectedly inherits Havenwood Farm—and her childhood home that she’d just as soon sell if it means ridding herself of the memories within those walls—Belle is forced to return to settle the property.

Unbeknownst to her, she also inherits a handsome cowboy who is currently the property’s resident farmhand. Selling the farm will mean Luke will have to pick up roots as well, and he isn’t going without a fight. He loves the property, and he attempts to remind Belle of what the farmhouse once meant to her too.

Will Belle’s broken heart find healing, or is she only risking another fracture?

With small-town charm, unexpected but heartfelt friendships, fulfilling romance, and a cozy farmhouse that beckons you home, get swept into the cadence of Luke and Belle’s story of hope, healing, and redemption.

Genres: Contemporary, Romance, Audiobook

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 27, 2022

About the author

Catelyn Meadows is a romantic at heart. A mom of four munchkins, Catelyn married a true-blue farm boy who still makes her heart pitter-pat, and she wanted to create stories that do the same. She also writes clean, young adult fantasy romance as USA Today bestselling author, Cortney Pearson.

Reviews

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lily and I are making a silly lil video about this but yes I did in fact read this and I was surprised at how much I actually liked it LMAO it even made me cry a little (3.5 stars hehe)

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved Luke and Belle’s story. Set in a small town the author does a fantastic job drawing you in so you feel as though you are right there. The characters are likeable and relatable and you feel every emotion they feel from the hurt and pain of loss to the trauma and the fear on the unknown. Luke is so patient and his and Belle’s chemistry is exciting and hopeful. It’s a great story, it made me cry, it made me laugh and it even made me swoon a little and I couldn’t put it down.

[Sandra Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Endearing, heartfelt, and simply a good story. I loved the small-town charm of rural Idaho—it felt especially relatable as someone who grew up in rural Oregon. The journey of the main character finding healing and love again was touching, even if some parts were predictable.

It was a wholesome escape that left me smiling at the end. Sometimes, that’s exactly what you need—a sweet, feel-good read that warms your heart.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listened to on youtube

[Megan Olds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where to start?! Catelyn is so good at what she does! I love that I still get a familiarity of her writing style here and --- even with just the little I know about her personally --- can see probably where various biographical influences leaked into the crafting of this novel. Then, to elaborate with everything else:

Belle's character and background are established right away, and I love all the themes on loss, trauma, mental health, family, home, self-worth, fate, facing one's fears, reconciliation, etc. The small town feel (and the flirtation interactions, by the way) are also very realistic --- Belle's grandparents' home reminds me of my own grandparents' in southern Utah. The characters are just overall great! I can't pinpoint it well enough here, so I'll leave it at that!

There are lots of great details and metaphors, from the smallest thing like a mention of sunflowers to the analogies to a nude beach and to the Grand Canyon (they make a lot more sense with context, believe me, haha!) The language in this novel is varied and intelligent but comprehensible for a general audience.

I love the humour that is occasionally included, such as Belle and Luke's original not-so-meet-cute and how a couch is considered good if it's qualified for kissing! And the little thoughts interspersed throughout the book on God.

Really, overall, I only ever questioned a couple of things in it, like how I still wanted to know more about what went down with Luke and his family prior to the novel's happenings and how I am not sure I agree with Belle's grandpa that she always does as she's told (; I do agree that animals are the best therapists, though! Also, Uncle Thomas is icky.

But yeah! -- the novel pretty much encapsulates Belle's journey to heal and grow and come back to herself, and I really enjoyed it. And: the side plot in this book with Bex totally sets you up --- and excites you for --- the next novel, too!

So here are my favorite quotes:
"You don't need to know my name. You just need to know you're my next bad idea."
"Possibility had begun to blossom, timid and fragile as new buds in spring."
"I was woven around his words as though I'd been a piece of twine around his fingers."
"Sunlight...[is like] God smiling at me..."
"...patched the dents embedded in my heart."
"...Even the best things need a little looking after."

And here is my personal theme song for the novel: "Look After You" by The Fray

So yay for Catelyn!! (; Check this book out today! I highly recommend it (and her other books, too!)

[Michelle Fritz PA · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful second chance small town romance that you'll want to devour. This will pull upon your emotions, so keep the tissues nearby. This proves that you can always go home again, even if the circumstances aren't ideal. Lots of lip locking and instant attraction!

These characters have pasts.They both are building lives and then tragedy strikes which brings them both together. What I really loved about this is that while the attraction is all consuming, the heroine realizes that there is a huge divide between attraction and love and she states that. I also adored that the grandfather played such a huge role in this as well.

If you crave romance that's a clean read but has some fan waving glee, pick this up! There are besties and family drama and some cranky uncles.

[Elle Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found Inheriting the Farmhouse by Catelyn Meadows on TikTok. The meet cute sounded fun, so I downloaded it on KU.

It wasn't the lighthearted read I was expecting, but it was a very good read that turned out to be Christian fiction. It was marketed as clean, so I hadn't expected that and was pleasantly surprised. There was a spiritual thread that showed a maturing faith that recognized that sometimes our plans and God's plans don't mesh up the way we might like.

I'm glad I picked this one up. I probably won't read the next book in the series since it's about a girl who leaves her husband and meets someone else. I'm not crazy about the premise and would've preferred a reconciliation romance between husband and wife.

[Michelle Fritz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a delightful second chance small town romance that you'll want to devour. This will pull upon your emotions, so keep the tissues nearby. This proves that you can always go home again, even if the circumstances aren't ideal. Lots of lip locking and instant attraction!

These characters have pasts. They both are building lives and then tragedy strikes which brings them both together. What I really loved about this is that while the attraction is all consuming, the heroine realizes that there is a huge divide between attraction and love and she states that. I also adored that the grandfather played such a huge role in this as well.

If you crave romance that's a clean read but has some fan waving glee, pick this up! There are besties and family drama and some cranky uncles.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luke and Belle
This was a beautifully written story. The author showcased how hard it was for Belle to return to her home town. So much pain and loss and now Belle has to figure out just what she going to do. Her options take her on a roller coaster of emotions. Luke was a sweet heart right from their first meeting there was a tiny spark. Belle’s aunt and her best friend were great characters. The cast felt so real in this story it was also a touching piece that kept me engaged from start to finish. This is a book that I would highly recommend if you are looking for a straight forward good book. You will not go wrong with this one. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Mindy Lopez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Book 1 in the Havenwood Cowboys Romance Series by this author. It is a heartfelt romance, with a small town feel, between Belle and Luke. These flawed but likeable characters and the unique plot make for an interesting read. It is a sweet love story filled with drama, humor, frustrating moments, family dynamic, unexpected twists, and passion, plus appealing secondary characters to keep the reader interested. The main characters share an undeniable chemistry and connection. An easy read with a happy ending.

I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Belle and Luke are so perfect for each other. It looks like Belle isn't ready for anything that will keep her in Bridgewater - she has too many memories and is running from ghosts. Luke is so patient, and is also hurting, so they help each other heal. I loved the characters in this book and their values and the way they treat people. I love their flaws and realness. I enjoyed watching family interactions - we truly don't get to pick our family... I truly enjoyed reading this book. What a great setting and down to earth people.

[Karen Brasher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inheriting the Farmhouse

Luke and Belle have a great story. When Belle loses her fiancé and suffers serious head injuries in a car accident, she decides she can no longer stay in her hometown. As soon as she is able to travel she leaves and ends up on Portland. Then the grandfather who raised her dies and leaves her the farmhouse and all the acreage surrounding. She heads home for the funeral and to sell the property. Luke has been taking care of the farm since just after she left. Will Belle be able to find a happily ever after?

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This was really good. It had all the small town/cowboy feels that very much delve into emotional topics like grief. It really grabbed me from the Belle as she was coming to town to deal with things after her inheriting a farmhouse from her grandfather. Once Luke came into the picture, it got more dynamic layers. They had some chemistry going. It was pretty steamy read even though there was really only kissing going on. I just really enjoyed seeing them fall in love with each other, which was so sweet.

[Faith · Rating 3 out of 5]

I felt like I didn’t really get to see the FMC & MMC connect. It was more like insta-love (or insta-lust?) which felt a little odd. Plus both of the MCs were randomly angry at times and then would cool down quickly and while I understand that grief can make people act strangely or angrily, it felt like their personalities were somewhat merged in ways.

Overall, it just didn’t hit the right spot for me and what I was looking for, but would definitely work better if you’re looking for a Hallmark movie vibe!

[Ellen Hogan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Out of sadness comes love and happiness. Belle inherits her Grandpa's farm upon his passing. Luke has been working on the farm for three years. Their first couple of meetings were not the best. Belle and Luke have an undeniable chemistry.  This is a sweet clean romance by a wonderful author. Catelyn Meadows writes heartwarming stories and this one is no different. I enjoyed it very much.

I was given this advanced copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntaril

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots of Sparks and Growth

This romance tale was full of sparks. While that’s the case, it’s still a clean read. I enjoyed the super tense ending. It was totally different than I expected. I might read more in the series. I just like my inspirational romances to have characters who practice Christianity a bit more clear than these did. Still, the story is well written. I was invested in it. If you enjoy clean romance with sparks, you might enjoy this book.

[Brittany Phillips · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a good listen! 🎧 I didn’t like it as much as the last one I listened to for some reason, but still very good. It was cute and sweet. I think it’s because it’s more serious, while the other had more effortless cutesy vibes. I’ve been looking for “fall” books to read and listen to, so this one should definitely be on a list for that. I saw they set up the ending for her best friend to have the next book, so I’ll probably give it a listen too! I wonder if it’ll be fall or Holiday…

[Sharee Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Catyeln Meadows does a wonderful job of making the characters feel like real people with real problems. The story had great flow and a beautiful romance between two people who both had a hard past. It was sweet clean read. I have loved everything Catelyn has written and can't wait for the next installment.

[Amberly Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet book!! Belle lost her fiancé and ran away from her hometown. But when her grandfather dies, she’s back to be at his funeral and to inherit the farmhouse. There she meets Luke and there’s an instant attraction. Together they find where they belong and help each other become who they were meant to be.

[Charles L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet story of second chances

This is a well done story of finding new love after a devastating loss. While no new territory is covered, it's a satisfying look at Belle's accepting of a new love with Luke after losing the boy she loved. The reader will fall in love with Luke right along with Belle. Good read.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Belle is struggling so badly as this story starts. As she and Luke meet there are lots of sparks. This story has lots of ups and downs and so much for them both to learn. So often lives change in ways we don't expect. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading more of this author's books.

[Fredia Tarlton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good read

The story line was good, some details, especially about the will, lacked reality, as there is always an original on file. No outcome of that Uncle was detailed, but the overall read was good. I was a bit disenchanted to reach the end & discover much was left pending, which forces the reader to buy book after book to gain feel the story completion.

[Lana M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Real rating 2.5/5⭐️
-
The actual outline of the story was beautiful, the execution wasn’t there. It was basic, immature and too wishy-washy. I wish there was more depth and realness.

I loved the grandpa’s letter and made me cry, really enjoyed how it ended with Rebecca.

I’ll definitely read the next one but this was only ok for me.

[Rebecca White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this beautiful story about a woman who learns to overcome her past through her experiences after her grandfather dies and leaves the farmhouse she grew up in to her. She hasn't come home since an accident killed her fiancé and she ran away to hide. I enjoyed her growing to know more of herself as she grew to know Luke.

[Marie Bourgery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Belle didn't want the farm her grandfather left her. She wanted to sell and run after running from losing her fiance three years ago. She didn't expect to fall for her grandfather's farmhand Luke and the place she grew up in. But her uncle is determined to claim her inheritance anyway he can. This was a kisses only Christian romance.

[Pamela Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic 2nd Chance at happily everafter😍

This was a fabulous love story. Catalyn is a new author to me. My first book I have read of hers and I have enjoyed every word. I read the first 20 chapters straight through by then it was 4 am and had to get some sleep.
Don't is this book a sweet and romantic love story filled with lots of steamy kisses.

[Laramee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved that this story takes place in Idaho! The characters in this sweet small town romance were real and relatable! I was excited to find out that this is the beginning of a new series!

I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.

[Marianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic small town/cowboy romance! I loved it! Emotional and heartfelt.. Luke is a wonderful, sweet guy.. with lots of compassion and empathy..

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Clara K Page · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting story

Story was good, a little slow at a few spots but I still wanted to know how it all turned out. Good characters, liked the bringing faith into the story and growth of the main character.

[Claire Brooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book but..

It had a very slow start. I love how Bree and Luke decide to pursue what they found and how they helped each other move forward in a way neither character expected.