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Member Reviews

Thank you to the author, publisher and @NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Now, Tarah DeWitt has been on my TBR for quite a while and knowing I would meet her at @steamylitcon inspired me to finally read her… oh and I also got this sweet approval from NetGalley.

I love me a dual perspective romance and this just hit all the right notes.

A small town romance.
A very emphatic goose.
A library scene 🥵
And just all the pining you need.

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Super cute story, light and fluffy with a good amount of spice! Definitely an easy, low maintenance read for those just wanting a little escape.

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I liked but didn’t love this book. It really took me a while to get into the book. I’m glad I pushed through because the last half finally pulled me in. This is definitely a slow burn!! The side characters were so good and added so much to the overall story, but I was left wanting more from the romance.

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Loved this book! I liked Tarah DeWitt's previous books and am so glad I got to read this one. So well written and engaging!

Thank you NetGalley and Tarah DeWitt!

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I liked this book, but sadly I didn't love it. I really had high hopes for the premise of this one, small town, cute animals, hot chef. There we're a lot of sings pointing towards this being a book for me. But sadly something about the execution just didn't work for me which made me really sad because I have loved Tara's books in the past.

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This one was a hit I loved the setting and the small town romance. The chef with burn out and a teacher were a great pair. This grumpy meets sunshine story was one that was over the top cute. I loved instant attraction without it being instalove. These characters were friends to then lovers and I think that worked out so well. It has everything you could ask for. Slow burn, a touch of spice, a third act breakup that didn't piss me off, single parent, HEA, and Dual POV!! This one had it all.

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I love Tara DeWitt, and after reading Funny Feelings I went looking for more. This one didn’t have quite the spark that her previous novels (Funny Feelings and Rootbounded had.) It was a cute fluffy read, I think what I was missing is the amazing banter she has previously had in her novels, and without that building, the pacing seemed off. I found times rush and times where I went back pages.

The cover is stunning and is so perfect.

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This book was so fun! A journey of self discovery of sorts for the characters and the main message I really appreciated is that we need to do things for ourselves and what makes us happy, not the constructs of society and what they expect is good or bad. Sage is goals with how she lives her life and I am glad she brought that insight to Fisher and Indy. I really hope we get to come back to Spoons for more on her brothers!

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Another instant classic from Tarah DeWitt! The characters jumped off of the page and ran away with my heart.

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Loved it! Tarah put her whole heart into this book, y’all & I loved it!!!! A summer romcom that is hilarious, warm, quirky, & balanced spice. You fall in love with the fictional town, Spunes, as much as Sage and Fisher! Fisher’s strained relationship with his niece, Indy is also a big part of this story & it’s so beautifully done with the aspects of living with grief and guilt. Sage & Fishers love was tender but also so electric & hot. This story has so many layers & you see that with the burnout, life as a single guardian, dealing with grief, finding joy in the small things, being yourself & loving each other perfectly with each others imperfectness. The communication was 11/10 so mature & real! The “Sage advice” even taught me something! I would have loved to see a bit more at the end with the subplots only because I really wanted more of them and their story!!& the audio was phenomenal with Karissa Vacker & Zachary Webber!

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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!!!

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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...)!

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