This is one of those lighthearted, pure fluff romances that you don't have to think about- you can just escape into the story and enjoy it. The #1 best part of the book is Willow's relationship with her dog. I'm all about that life and bonus points because Willow is also the name of one of my cats.

A small town, lightweight, fluffy romance with next to no angst or conflict at all. This book is all about discovering that what you have wanted all along was right in front of you.

Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this ARC in return for my honest review.

A quick read with Willow and Spud. Can relate to her relationship with her dog and it’s precious! I’m not sure much about her new age type deal but it’s decent!

This book is a nice quick read about Willow and her dog spud who have moved back to her childhood village. She is getting divorced and meets her new neighbor Henry Darcy. They clash immediately. This story was a nice read but not overly memorable or particularly special.

Be Your Best Self is not Maxine Morrey's best book as far as I am concerned. For me, Willow's New Age lifestyle made it hard to warm to her. That's a personal opinion, but her behaviour towards Henry, her new next-door-neighbour, was objectively verging on the ridiculous for a mature woman and so was even harder to accept. There are passing mentions of Willow's disfunctional family. If that element of the story had been enlarged, her behaviour might have made more sense. However, in spite of my hesitations, I did enjoy the story and read it keenly.

Willow, seeking a fresh start, moves back to her childhood village and settles into her dream cottage with her dog, Spud. She enjoys the tranquillity and community of country life until the arrival of her new neighbour, Henry Darcy. Despite his good looks, Willow and Henry clash on almost everything: science vs. nature, minimalism vs. vibrant colours. Willow begins to doubt her request to the universe for her perfect man, thinking it either hasn’t been delivered yet or Henry just isn’t the one. However, when a new man arrives in the village, Willow wonders if fate has finally delivered her true match or if her perfect partner has been right next door all along.

This book offers pure fluffy romantic escapism, perfect for a cold winter’s day. And while it was an enjoyable read, I didn’t find it particularly memorable or standout. I found Willow’s relationship with her dog, Spud, really sweet and fun to read. The chemistry between Willow and Henry is palpable, adding an engaging layer to their frequent clashes. Additionally, the small English village setting is charmingly depicted, complete with the sense of community, gossip, and camaraderie that comes with that kind of life.

Overall, there’s nothing wrong with this book and fans of Maxine Morrey's other works will likely enjoy this one, as it carries her signature blend of warmth and romance. For me it was a nice enough read but just didn’t quite grab me or leave a lasting impression.

🐶 Books come into your life at the right reason. This book is complete & utter proof of that fact! I didn't know what to expect, but I was giggling at how much it connected with me!

🌺 I adored Willow. Her whole vibe from her house to her manifesting made me happy.

🐶 Willow's relationship with her dog Spud. Yes, to all of that. I felt that completely.

🌺 The chemistry, the romance, the whole story had me glued to my Kindle. I loved it so much.

🐶 Definitely a book you're going to want to read this summer... in the garden!

A perfect piece of unputdownable romantic escapism, I read it in one sitting! Maxine Morrey is one of my favourite romantic authors and her books just get better. Beautifully written from the first word to the last, the characters and setting leap off the page and transport you to their world. This book has it all, a gorgeous if slightly damaged hero, a lovable down to earth heroine, a smattering of gorgeous animals and a storyline you wish was yours! Like all her books I will read it again, one not to be missed!

Ready for a fun summer/pool read?

Willow and her dog, Spud, have made themselves a home in her childhood town. Everyone knows and loves them, and there's no need for a phone due to the rate at which gossip spreads! Willow has been dragging her feet to finalize her divorce and comes to realize maybe this is why she hasn't found Mr. Right yet.

So when a new resident moves in, everyone quickly pegs him as an eligible bachelor - Henry Darcy is handsome AND a doctor! But he and Willow definitely do not get off to a great start. They're polar opposites, and following their mishaps is quite entertaining. This would have been five stars had the ending not felt so abrupt.

Thanks to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Maxine Morrey for the eARC.

An irresistible slice of escapism and a joy to read. Compelling, absorbing and highly entertaining. Fast-moving and fun! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ To say I wanted more would be an understatement. This was a delicious page turner right from the start. Loved the attraction and romance and looking forward to hopefully more?

Willow es bruja, trabaja en el hospital de ositos, o sea arregla peluches, se pelea con el nuevo residente del pueblo quien resulta ser su nuevo vecino y quien quito árboles y maleza para poner pasto artificial.
Henry es el nuevo doctor, algo le pasó porque siempre esta triste

Se pasó Henry con lo que dijo de Willow a su hermano.

Me gustó como se fueron conociendo poco a poco teniendo citas que no eran citas porque sólo se iban a convertir en amigos y nada más.

El problema final se me hizo tonto e innecesario, por lo menos hubiera durado menos tiempo.

Me gustó la relación de Stud con Henry, H pasó de no poder acariciarlo a pedirle que fuera el portador de anillos.



Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book, it was just a lovely heart warming and romantic read.
I loved Willow and Spud and could almost imagine myself sitting in the garden with them.
Henry Darcy is just a perfect name for her next door neighbour who was lovely.
The ending was exactly what I wanted to happen(no spoilers) and I would love a sequel to this story to see what happens next for Willow.
Thanks to NetGalley, Maxine Morrey and Boldwood Books for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

"Be Your Best Self" by Maxine Morrey is an absolute gem of a read. Morrey's writing has a captivating charm that draws readers in from the very first page. The endorsements from fellow authors speak volumes, and rightfully so. This novel is not just a story; it's an experience, offering warmth, laughter, and a touch of romance that lingers long after the final chapter. From the engaging characters to the seamless storytelling, every aspect of this book feels like a comforting embrace. If you're in need of a heartwarming escape, look no further than Maxine Morrey's delightful world.