After seeing her ex-fiancé's wedding in the social media Felicity has a bit of a pity party, during which she manages to buy a cottage in the country sight unseen. Also as an after effect she also manages to get fired from her high powered job as an interior designer. Upon arriving at her new purchase she finds it in a dilapidated state, so she begrudgingly starts trying to make it habitable. She first meets her neighbour when she knocks him over with a piece of wood, not exactly the best start, but he comes to her rescue when her cottage is badly damaged in a storm.
I loved this book, I found I became totally engrossed in the story and the time just whizzed past. I felt for Felicity and her fish out of water experience after being a city girl, but she did knuckle down and try to make the best of a bad thing. Her new neighbour, Jess, comes across as very helpful, although there is a reason behind this, plus the other locals all come out to help when disaster happens. An idyllic view of village life, although it does mention the downsides as well, together with the will they / won't they romantic part of the story. I really must get around to reading other stories by this author languishing in my TBR list.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

Felicity, shaped by a difficult past, is fiercely independent, making it hard for her to accept help—even from Jesse, whose steadfast support begins to break down her walls. Their evolving relationship, from tension to teamwork, is one of the book’s highlights, with Jesse standing by her side through her struggles.

As the story unfolds, Felicity’s guarded nature and trust issues become understandable, given her history. The small-town setting, though warm and welcoming, feels overwhelming for someone as private as her, adding another layer of conflict. Jesse’s protective instincts and his ability to own up to mistakes make him a compelling partner. Humor, especially in Felicity’s city-girl encounters with rural life, adds levity to the otherwise emotionally heavy narrative.

A standout moment is Felicity’s heartfelt café speech, emphasizing that self-worth isn’t tied to money. It’s a lesson that resonates deeply and underscores the book’s themes of resilience and self-acceptance.

However, the third act falters with an abrupt resolution. While Felicity’s decisions are understandable, her choice to chase after Jesse instead of the other way around feels inconsistent with their dynamic. Despite this, the story delivers humor, emotional depth, and a satisfying message about overcoming the past and finding value in oneself.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced digital copy in exchange for my review.

I enjoyed this sweet, small town romance! Felicity was a main character I genuinely wanted to root for, and Jesse was such a kind, caring MMC. I think the opening is especially strong and hooks the reader in, which allows you to care for the characters. I also enjoyed that these characters have real problems and life hiccups.

But things get bogged down by the repetitive dialogue throughout the middle. I feel like Felicity and Jesse have the same two conversations for about half the book. There is also some nonsensical drama in the last 20% that didn’t feel necessary to the plot.

Overall, I think this is a fun, short book that doesn’t add anything new to the genre, but is great if you enjoy small town romance books with no spice.

I’ll be honest my late night risky purchases tend to lean towards a flashing disco light or giraffe shaped vase from Amazon, but in this book the purchase in question is a run-down farmhouse, conveniently next door to the most wonderful hunk you’ve ever dreamt up. When a storm causes a tree to thrash through the dodgy roof, there’s no other option than to accept his generous hospitality and discover the kindness that exists in village life. Joyful and sweet.

Fliss is a total mess at the beginning. Just about everything you can imagine occurring does. She buys a ramshackle house, ditches her job, and then her property is severely damaged.
Jesse steps in to lend a hand. Both he and Fliss warily tread around each other but are receptive to new beginnings.
It’s an appealing story about finding your place and giving your heart.
It’s also about trust and creating your own family.
Fliss was marvelous in the last few scenes and it was heartening to see her come into her own and claim what she wanted.

I just loved this book it was very heartwarming. I really liked the characters and how they were there to help Fliss even though they didn’t know her, they just wanted to help her. Once I started reading this book I just couldn’t put it down, I just love Maxine Morrey books they are like a big hug.

I would highly recommend reading this book if you love a good heartwarming read.

I would like to thank Boldwood Books and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book early.

Maxine Morrey’s *Reach for the Stars* is a delightful rom-com packed with wit, charm, and just the right dose of heartfelt emotion. With its relatable heroine, dreamy countryside setting, and a love story that feels as warm as a cup of tea on a rainy day, this novel is perfect for fans of lighthearted romance with a touch of personal growth.

The story follows Felicity, or Fliss, whose perfectly curated city life unravels in spectacular fashion. After the gut-punch of seeing her ex-fiancé’s picture-perfect wedding plastered all over social media, Fliss makes an impulsive purchase—a ramshackle farmhouse that might just rival her personal life in disrepair. The charm of the countryside soon becomes apparent, thanks in large part to Jesse Woods, the ridiculously handy and undeniably swoon-worthy local who seems to have stepped straight out of a romance novel.

Morrey does a fantastic job of balancing humor and heart as Fliss navigates her new life, complete with unexpected roof collapses and runaway trees. The slow-burning connection between Fliss and Jesse is as endearing as it is entertaining. Their chemistry sparkles, built on a foundation of banter, shared vulnerability, and the kind of quiet moments that make you sigh out loud. Jesse is the kind of romantic lead who makes you want to pack your bags for the countryside—charming, grounded, and genuinely kind.

Fliss herself is a wonderfully relatable protagonist. Her journey from heartbroken city girl to someone who learns to embrace a simpler, more fulfilling life is both inspiring and laugh-out-loud funny. Morrey’s knack for writing flawed, lovable characters shines through, and Fliss’s mishaps—from DIY disasters to moments of emotional doubt—make her feel like someone you’d want to grab a drink with and commiserate over life’s messes.

The countryside setting is a character in itself, described with such charm and warmth that you can practically feel the crisp country air and hear the creak of old farmhouse floorboards. Morrey’s vivid descriptions add depth to the story, providing the perfect backdrop for Fliss’s personal transformation and her budding romance with Jesse.

What makes *Reach for the Stars* stand out is its balance of humor and emotional depth. While there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, the story also touches on themes of trust, self-discovery, and learning to rebuild after life’s curveballs. Morrey’s writing is engaging and lighthearted, but she doesn’t shy away from the emotional beats that make the story resonate.

With its quirky cast of secondary characters, moments of laughable chaos, and a romance that feels authentic and deeply satisfying, *Reach for the Stars* is a joy from start to finish. Maxine Morrey reminds us that sometimes the biggest risks lead to the greatest rewards, and that even when life feels like a series of disasters, there’s beauty in the rebuild.

This is a five-star rom-com that will leave you grinning, swooning, and maybe even planning your own countryside escape.

DNF
I found Fliss exhausting. I'm sure there's a well founded reason that she's so fiercely independent, but it is really hard to develop empathy for a character when she's so prickly from the outset on top of her poor decisionmaking fueled by alcohol consumption being a turn off.
I could see the direction that this is heading and I appreciate it, but this book is not for me.
If a character begins the book at a rock bottom, it's really important to be given a reason to empathize and root for them early on, but I didn't get that from this book.

The crash and burn of Felicity’s London life is the beginning to an adventure she never would have imagined. Selling her London condo and buying a sight unseen farm in the countryside ushers in a life completely different for her. It also brings Jesse, a man of depth and true character. A captivating story from start to finish.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Felicity buys a house unseen after her life falls apart in London. One day buying some lumber she bumps into a new face.
This kinda started off as an enemy to friends to lovers type story. It’s about starting over, making new friends and finding a new life in the last place you expected.
It’s an easy to read book and makes a good beach read

Another great comfort read from Maxine Morrey.. Although her books are generally predictable, they are so well-written with great characters, I always enjoy them.

Felicity moves to the country on a drunken whim after her London life explodes. She meets Jesse in what can be a meet cute in another life but just makes her day worse when he laughs at her while her overalls disintegrate in the rain. Things seem going from bad to worse when part of her new, crumbling house is destroyed but Jesse comes to the rescue. She doesn't want to accept his help as she is accustomed to doing everything for herself. As the story continues, we understand why she is the way she is and her reactions to things, Jesse also has a sad past but he is really a knight in shining armour for her although she is reluctant to accept his help.

The lovely slow burn romance between the two is sweet and although they have hurdles to navigate, they ultimately get their HEA. I enjoyed this sweet story very much and would recommend to readers looking for a romantic, fun and entertaining book

Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this arc in exchange for my honest review.

Yet another book to take me back to great 80s movies-this one brought to mind “The Money Pit”
Felicity is unhappy with the way things are going in her life so she decides to upend everything and move to the country-she buys a farmhouse from the listing only and not see it in person and when she gets there she’s shocked to find it’s not quite as advertised. Thankfully, the owners brother, Jesse, gets wind of her moving in-the beauty of a small town-and comes to her aid. Felicity is afraid to open her heart after past heartbreak.
There’s more to the story than just the romance that develops. I loved the growth that was shown in Felicity and the banter between the two MC was fun and entertaining. It’s a closed door romance with no spice but it does get into some heavy stuff in a couple of points.
“I came here and found everything I was missing.”
That being said if you’re a fan of Abby Jimenez or Emily Henry or such, you’ll probably enjoy this one.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.

Thanks to the Publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.

We meet Felicity, an interior designer. Her life goes from a big high to the lowest she’s ever been, her fiancé dumps her, following which she loses her job.

Whilst she’s under the influence, she buys a farm which needs a lot of work, and which she doesn’t view properly.

When she arrives in the village and sees the property she’s bought, she begins to regret her decision.

Then makes friends with Jesse who helps her find tradesmen to fix the house.

Over time, their relationship changes and then there’s a bit of drama when her old friend turns up and Jesse reveals what happened before in his life.

I recommend this book.

I think I've found another author I will be following. Reach for the Stars by Maxine Morrey is a sweet read that will appeal to fans of feel-good contemporary romance.

I have read many books by Maxine Morrey, and they always put a smile on my face, so of course I HAD to read this one!.
A slow-burn romance between Fliss and Jesse, a small town full of wonderful characters and a delightful storyline that had me reading late into the evening.
I truly enjoyed this book!

3.5/5⭐️
Felicity has been through a lot and all her life she is used to being independent. So when Jesse tries to help her out, she can’t help but become prickly like a porcupine. Despite that, Jesse remains steadfast and I liked how it becomes a “we” as he stands with her in solidarity.

The book is not an easy read as we slowly learn what Felicity has gone through in life. No wonder she has her walls high up and has major trust issues. In this small town though, everyone is friendly but that can also be a bit overwhelming for someone as private as Felicity.

As for Jesse, I love his protective mode and how he is not afraid to apologise when things go wrongly. There were many funny moments especially since Felicity is from the city and it familiar with the countryside. But I was also surprised by the depth of emotions which this book invoked in me. Money is not a barometer of our self-worth! Thanks Felicity for that speech at the cafe.

The problem though lies in the abrupt third act. I could totally understand Felicity’s point of view and the reason for her decision. What I didn’t get was why she went after him instead of the other way….

Reach for the Stars was a quirky, cheesy read full of hilarious moments.
I really enjoyed the slow burn chemistry between Fliss and Jesse.
The small town vibe with engaging characters made for a fun read.
A perfect closed-door romance for those that enjoy reading a light-hearted love story.
Thank you NetGalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I read this novel at a fast pace and throughout, I was struck by the resemblance to the romanticised plot of a Christmas movie.

It should be noted that the story is genuinely romantic and provides excellent company, particularly on winter evenings by the fireplace wrapped in a blanket. However, the plot is not entirely satisfying. While the first half is interesting and moves quickly, the plot becomes hasty and the conclusion comes too quickly once you reach the end. The book gives the impression of being read without being fully absorbed, due to its hasty progression towards a fairly predictable conclusion.

The novel is an entertaining romantic comedy, ideal for Christmas nights. However, it has a few shortcomings that prevent it from being a story that will linger in readers' hearts.
This novel is recommended for those with a penchant for romanticism and a fondness for the ambience of small towns during the Christmas season. It is also suited to those who appreciate the dynamics of couples comprising contrasting personalities.

"Reach for the Stars" is a sweet slow-burn romance between Felicity, a city girl, and Jesse, a country guy she literally knocks off his feet.

After being heartbroken and heavily intoxicated, Felicity makes the rash decision to sell her London apartment and buy a rundown fixer-upper called Paradise Farm in the middle of nowhere. This comes after her long-time boyfriend, whom she believed was "the one," betrays her, leaves her for a wealthy heiress, and marries her in a destination wedding that she paid for.

What follows is a series of hilarious misadventures, beginning with a freak storm that sends a tree crashing into the only livable room in her new home, ripping off the roof.

As Felicity juggles her broken heart and overwhelming new responsibilities, Jesse Woods is there for her every step of the way. But can she let go of her trust issues and accept his help, or will her stubbornness make it harder for her to find her happily ever after?

I loved how the characters actually communicated instead of letting misunderstandings fester. Felicity’s character arc was excellently done, though I wish we had more insight into why Jesse was initially so cold to her, dismissing her as a "city girl" who wasn’t his type. While the romance could have been developed a bit more, overall, I really enjoyed this story.

This was a cute, easy read, and I enjoyed following Fliss as she tried to rebuild her life in the village. Watching her figure out who she really was—and letting go of some old habits—felt relatable and gave her character depth. Jesse was a highlight for me. He was such a kind and supportive presence, and it’s hard not to love someone who always has your back when life gets messy.

But while I liked the characters individually, the romance between them didn’t quite work for me. Their chemistry felt a bit flat, and the way they communicated often left me frustrated. It just didn’t feel like their connection was fully developed, and I kept wishing for more moments that showed why they belonged together. I also think their backstories and feelings could have been explored more to make their relationship feel stronger.

That said, the book was lighthearted and fun. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s perfect if you’re in the mood for a sweet, drama-free romance with no spicy scenes. While it didn’t blow me away, I still enjoyed spending time with Fliss and Jesse and their charming little village.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.