This was my first book by Tarah Dewitt, but I can promise you it'll not be my last. I loved this book and loved its characters even more. Sage is just the most perfect human being with a huge heart. I was extremely invested in this story and sad when it ended. I have been looking for a romance book that had a bit more of an emotional love story and this was it. I found my heart being torn apart for these characters and then sewn back up by the end of the book.

Sage Byrd has lived her whole life in the quaint coastal town of Spunes, Oregon. She loves her peaceful existence on a hobby farm with her misfit animals, but things take a turn when her long-term relationship ends, and her ex-boyfriend, Ian, swiftly gets engaged. Looking for a way to prove she’s moved on, Sage sets her sights on the town’s annual summer competition, the Festival of Spunes—but she needs a partner.

Fisher Lange, a former Michelin-star chef from New York City, is in Spunes on a summer sabbatical, recovering from the loss of his sister and grappling with the sudden responsibility of raising his teenage niece, Indy. His grief has dulled his passion for cooking, and the town’s resistance to his restaurant consulting isn’t helping. When Fisher meets Sage, the two strike a deal: she’ll help improve his reputation in town, and he’ll be her competition partner. But as their partnership develops into a romantic relationship, both must confront their personal grief and learn to savor the fleeting beauty of summer—and love.

Tropes
- Small-Town Romance
- Fake Relationship/Deal
- Emotional Healing
- Slow Burn with Steamy Moments

It is a delightful blend of spicy romance and heartfelt emotion, perfect for fans of small-town love stories. DeWitt's writing shines in her portrayal of two flawed yet lovable characters: Sage, who needs to prove to herself and her town that she’s fine after her breakup, and Fisher, who’s trying to rekindle his passion for life and cooking after personal tragedy.

The chemistry between Sage and Fisher is palpable, starting with playful banter and escalating into a slow-burn romance filled with heat. The summer festival competition acts as both a plot driver and a fun backdrop for their blossoming relationship. The small-town setting is brimming with charm, and the cast of eccentric townspeople adds a layer of humor and warmth to the story.

Fisher’s grief and responsibility for his niece, Indy, give the novel emotional weight, as does Sage’s struggle with self-worth after her breakup. The combination of witty dialogue, slow-burn romance, and personal growth make this a well-rounded read. Narrators Karissa Vacker and Zachary Webber expertly capture the voices of Sage and Fisher, bringing authenticity and emotional resonance to the audiobook.

It is an irresistible romcom that hits all the right notes—humor, heat, and heart. With a charming small-town setting, relatable characters, and a romance that feels genuine, it’s a perfect summer read for anyone who enjoys stories about emotional healing and second chances. Tarah DeWitt’s delightful writing and engaging characters make this novel one to savor.

Savor It" is a heartwarming grumpy-sunshine romance set in a charming small town, brimming with affection and warmth. The story features a cast of delightful characters and endearing animals that make for a thoroughly enjoyable read.

Fisher, burdened by the recent death of his sister and now responsible for his teenage niece, Indy, decides to leave the chaos of New York for a serene town on the Oregon coast. Both are in need of a reset—Fisher after losing his job and Indy as she adjusts to her new life.

Their neighbor, Sage, is a true gem. Her endearing habit of talking to her animals and finding peace in her garden is a highlight. The initial meeting between Fisher and Sage is charming and sets the stage for a tender connection. Sage’s sunny disposition contrasts with Fisher’s gruff demeanor, yet he reveals a kindness that endears him to readers. Sage, recovering from a recent breakup, provides the calm and support that Fisher and Indy need.

The novel unfolds at a deliberate pace, which suits its gentle and introspective narrative. Watching Sage, Fisher, and Indy develop their relationships and find their paths is both moving and satisfying. The story's small-town charm, coupled with heartfelt moments and some steamy scenes, culminates in an ending that will leave readers with a smile.

Highlights include a memorable library scene, an exciting race, and a touching conclusion. For those who appreciate a story that unfolds slowly and sweetly, "Savor It" is a perfect choice. I look forward to exploring more books by this author!

Thank you Netgalley for the copy in exchange for my honest review! This book gave me all the cozy small town romance vibes! I truly felt like I was sucked into the cute town of Spunes and was living right along with the characters! I absolutely loved to see Fisher's vulnerability whenever Sage was around. He wasn't afraid to show that side of him and was okay not being perfect. I enjoyed the realness to this book showing life difficulties of loss of a family member and the grieving process. Fisher taking in his niece was huge and watching that relationship grow was special as well.

I think I would have given it five stars if it didn't have a 3rd act breakup, where Fisher moved away then came back to Spunes.

This is an entertaining romance about a chef who’s lost his cooking mojo and the small town girl who helps him out. Sage is the sunshine girl of her small town, but after her long term relationship ends, she needs a partner for the upcoming Spunes Festival. Fisher just lost his sister and become the guardian for his niece; he thinks that Spunes OR might be perfect for them both right now.
Fisher agrees to partner with Sage, and sparks fly as they spend time training together. I love the characters and the town itself, and the writing is outstanding. You’ll enjoy this grumpy/sunshine, small town romance. 4.5 stars.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley, I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Small town with all the feels!!!! I am so obsessed with this small town world.

Savor it was everything I was looking for in a romance book..
Sage and Fisher has me on the edge of my seat, while this was a slow burn, it has me so giddy and not wanting this book to end.

A must read!!!

Savor It is a heartwarming and satisfying read that offers a perfect blend of romance and personal growth. Tarah DeWitt’s writing is engaging and descriptive, with a knack for bringing the culinary world to life.

Savour It by Tarah DeWitt is a delightful escape into the heart of a charming coastal town, Spunes, Oregon. This unique setting, with its small-town quirks and the sense of community, is beautifully drawn. It's a place where summer heat isn't the only thing sizzling. Sage Byrd is the character you can't help but root for—she's down-to-earth, relatable, and desperate for a win after a rough breakup. How she handles her small-town life, surrounded by quirky animals and even quirkier neighbours, feels authentic and heartwarming.

On the other hand, Fisher Lange brings a compelling balance to the story. His grief and struggle with the loss of his sister add a layer of depth to what could have been a straightforward summer fling narrative. The way DeWitt intertwines his journey with Sage's quest for redemption in the town's summer festival is both poignant and entertaining. Their partnership is a slow burn, filled with moments that will keep you intrigued, make you smile, laugh, and even get a little misty-eyed.

The setting of Spunes, Oregon, with its small-town quirks and the strong sense of community, is beautifully drawn. DeWitt's attention to detail makes you feel like you're right there with Sage and Fisher, experiencing every awkward encounter, every blossoming feeling, and every step toward healing. The festival competition adds a layer of fun and excitement, driving the plot forward while giving Sage and Fisher the perfect stage to explore their budding relationship, making you feel like a part of the community.

DeWitt has a knack for creating characters that feel like old friends, and Savor It is no exception. It's a book that reminds you of the importance of savoring life's moments, big and small, and the joy that can be found in unexpected places. It's a story about love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit.

so sweet, so romantic!! savor it has that gilmore girls stars hollow magic that draws you in. all the characters (and farm animals) were so lovable. tarah’s writing perfectly captured all the elements i love in a small town romance.

i love the quiet and peaceful love that sage and fisher share. they needed each other without realizing how interwoven their lives have become. they helped one another find themselves again after being lost for so long. sage and fisher found a home in each other. home isn’t a place, it is finding your people who make you feel at home.

i wish the book was a little bit longer so the ending didn’t feel rushed with the time jump, but i still loved and fisher’s hea. i can’t wait for wren & ellis’ book bc “she’s still a byrd” had me screaming!!

4.25 ⭐️

tropes: small town, fake dating, friends to lovers, hot chef, single “parent” (raising his niece)

thank you netgalley for the arc!

I really enjoyed this read. It was funny and sweet, and a really enjoyable read. The writing was very well done, with jus the right amount of conflict and the book took a couple twists that I wasn't expecting. What really stood out were the supporting characters in this book. Oftentimes I find that secondary characters are just there to flesh out the world, but in this case I don't think the story would have worked without them. That being said - I would like to stay in Spunes a little longer (Sage has all those brothers just waiting for a story of their own...)!

4 stars, bonus points for the PNW representation

This was a super sweet summer hallmark romance. It didn’t feel very tropey and was written well!! The small town was perfectly described and you could really feel the community and the other characters. Felt very Gilmore Girls with town meetings and the eclectic cast. The romance was paced really well for the majority of the book besides the end which felt a bit montage-y. I do love the maturity of the characters!!

Overall very cute. Felt like a cozy Christmas read but for the summer!!

Thanks NetGalley for the eARC of this book.

I just wanted to thank the publisher for an ARC for this book. I had listened to it on audio and I don't know I really wanted to to like this book, but I feel like it kinda fell flat. It stared off great and it caught my attention, but as the book went on it kinda just lost my interest. I felt like the characters really didn't go well together. I had DNF it at 70% and at that point I didn't care to read how the book had ended.

Tarah DeWitt books never fail to feel like a warm and cozy embrace. The charm, the wit, the effortless chemistry and the uniquely endearing characters, all work seamlessly to create a story that is both fun and flirty while also packing a wallop of emotions. Savor It is a tender and sweet but powerfully meaningful love story. It’s wonderfully adorable and swoony, and I fell madly in love with this world, these characters, and this town.

Savor It finds the deliciously grumpy and complicated Fisher Lange, big city, recently disgraced Michelin-star chef relocating to the endlessly idyllic Spunes, Washington…and next door the small town charmer Sage Byrd, the very manifestation of sunshine and warmth and welcoming spirit. She’s the antithesis of Fisher’s energy- as he struggles to not only pick up the pieces of his recent professional disaster but also is struggling to parent his teenage niece, grieving both personal and professional losses. But turns out his neighbor (and her endless parade of animal friends) is more than just a nuisance- she seems to hold not just the key to helping him connect with his niece but also can help him with his short-term project in town, a project that requires earning the town’s trust. Who better than town enthusiast and the beloved Pollyanna-esque Sage to help him? And Fisher might also be the man to help Sage win the much coveted title of victor in the festival competition.

Sage and Fisher both represent what I love most about Tarah’s writing- her deft capacity to create uniquely specific characters that are so dynamic and layered, flawed but beautiful, each at a true existential turning point. A turning point catalyzed by the dynamic they find in the other. Tarah truly is a gifted character writer- the details, the quirks, the dynamic emotions- I found myself so immersed in both Sage and Fisher. Sage is brightness and love- immediately lovable, deeply likable, and so charismatic she feels like magic. Her animal collection, her small town spirit, her compassion and optimism make her truly sparkle- I’m half in love with her myself. Fisher, on the other hand, has a melancholic heaviness to him at first. But Fisher is deeply struggling- not just with his professional path, but also in coming to terms with his own identity and ambitions. He's a man at a crossroads of versions of himself, all while trying to build stability for his niece. He's dreamy and swoony once he opens his heart, and I could not help but fall for him as we saw the depth of his emotions. There is a profound sadness and lostness to Fisher- his is a journey of healing and acceptance, the balm for which he finds with the person and in the place he least expects it.

I loved watching these two fall- how they built empathy as friends, leaned into everything that makes the town magic, and not only found love with each other but also found better and more true versions of themselves. Their love story is fun and flirty- vibrant and page turning. But it’s also substantive, tender and gentle at times and life changing in others- there's a love story that is more than just romance, it’s about self-discovery and forgiveness. And that’s where this story really shines- Tarah’s keen ability to balance a light, bright, and heartwarming summer romance with character arcs that are hard fought, full of loss and insecurities and challenge. It's wonderfully balanced in tone and impact- the feelings hit, but it doesn’t drown you in them. It’s the perfect saturation of depth and fun.

I loved all the juxtapositions of Savor It. The big city noise and the small town charisma. The grumpy sunshine contrasts. The warmth and brightness of life paired with the cold fissures of grief. Savor It is as much about the jagged and soft edges of living as it is about the romance we find in the journey. Fisher in particular struck a deep chord with me- he wasn’t instantly likable like Sage, but I felt his buried pain and stoic coping deep in my soul. I loved seeing this man come to terms with his heartache, his doubts, and finding the right path for himself. And I loved how Sage brought that to life in him- how they both became the safe space for the other to land, even if they started off riotously at odds.

This quickly became my favorite Tarah DeWitt story to date- and the audio is so fantastic. The narrators brought such depth to their performances and captures the wit and charm of Tarah’s prose with authenticity and character. Zachary Webber is a favorite, and his stoic but vulnerable depiction of Fisher is pitch perfect, but Karrisa Vacker’s depiction of Sage really stood out. Sage’s energy was beautifully captured, and I couldn’t stop listening to this story.

I adored this story- it’s why Tarah DeWitt is my go-to for feel-good, cozy romance that packs a ton of depth into the most charming and heartfelt story.

If you like:
-City Boy x Small Town Lady
-Summer Vibes
-Small town shenanigans/antics
-Opposites attract
-single guardian
-forced proximity/neighbors
-scene stealing animals
-frenemies to friends with benefits
-making the ex jealous
-he’s a chef

This book, as with every book Tarah writes, was so lovely. Her characters are always so well-rounded and well-developed, and so, so real. Her books grab your heart and squeeze, and this one was no different. Sage and Fisher have my whole heart, and this little town in Washington was my favorite little literary escape. I loved everything about this tender, ooey gooey book.

Savor It by Tarah Dewitt is a delightful romance that will sweep you off your feet in the cozy little town of Spune, Oregon! Sage is on a mission to prove she’s thriving after a breakup, while Fisher, a former Michelin-star chef, is trying to find his groove again while caring unexpectedly for his niece.

As they work together to win the summer festival and help his restaurant, their friendship blossoms into something unexpected. But with Fisher's uncertain future and Sage's love for her hometown, the big question is: will they choose love and happiness over their individual dreams?

With tons of chemistry, humor, and heart, Dewitt perfectly captures the charm of small-town life and the excitement of finding love when you least expect it. Savor It is packed with lovable characters and feel-good moments, making it an absolute must-read! You'll be cheering for Sage and Fisher every step of the way!

Thank you @authortarahdewitt, @netgalley and @stmartinspress for the #gifted ebook ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

I loved this book. LOVED IT.

Fisher was going through so much in his life and he felt so broken, and Sage felt like she was more than what people perceived her to be. It was so lovely to watch them not only fall for each other, but also for Fisher to find peace within himself and realize that he was finally healing.

I seriously adored this book. The end had me tearing up when Indy realized that she had also found her home in Spoons. Gosh. It was SO GOOD.

Tara could write a grocery list and I'd request to read it early. Come back to it when I needed to feel good.

I did a reread of Funny Feelings before reading Savor It and was afraid I wouldn't love it as much, but I there was no reason to worry - it's a different type of love.

I am very much in my "Yes Chef" era (thanks to The Bear) and this filled the void in between seasons.

Small town, fake dating, shenanigans? Always and forever.

I love Tarah’s books and words. I truly enjoyed her exploration of grief and the growth we saw throughout. I love fully realized characters and a single dad trope, so I was truly here for this!

I didn't hate this, but I also didn't love this.
It was a cute story, but i wasn't a fan of the writing.
The number of times the phrase "savor it" was used made me cringe.
I also found some of the spicy scenes a bit cringe.
My favorite couple was Indy and Gary 😂😂.
I loved the animal friends and the small town vibes.
If you like small town romance with spice, this might be for you!

This one was very enjoyable. I really like Tarah's writing and she's only getting better with each book gives us.