I really loved reading this book. I found it cosy and light-hearted which makes for a perfect autumn read. I loved the slow burn, enemies to friends elements of the story and found the writing style really easy to read. I loved the main characters, and the humour between them. Definitely one I recommend.

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book out me into a reading slump - it was so bad. From the start, the main characters are depressing. Nobody has any money, everyone is scraping by to make it work (though somehow she affords coffee for the barn drew every day?) I had to stop reading about 75% of the way through. Everyone was so pathetic and I literally didn't care if they finished the barn in time or had the party. Yikes.

This is a really cute autumn romance between a party planner and a pumpkin farm, as they work together to fix up a barn which should boost both their businesses. Wren and August think they dislike each other from the moment they meet, but it is clear to the reader and to everyone around them that they are a lot more fond of each other than they would like to admit.

The story is pretty gripping, and it is very easy to keep turning the pages to find out what is going to happen next. The stakes are pretty low and the conflicts between the characters are hard to believe as serious issues (things which could very easily be resolved with just a tiny bit of actual communication) but the book feels light and easy to read in part because of that. I raced through this book, and while I think it could be a bit more polished, and the side characters utilised more, I wouldn't hesitate to read more by this author.

I actually had to DNF this book at 33% because I could not stand to read another page of Gus being just a stereotype. I was sick of him being disrespected around every turn even from the FMC. I was sick of his only traid being ASD. As an autistic person who teaches special education, I feel qualified to say that this is a very bad representation of ASD. Plus the pacing was simultaneously too fast and too slow somehow. It’s petty but “Oakleigh” and “Bash” are names I had to skim over. And the town was just too stereotypical in ways it didn’t need to be. I’m being too harsh with those three things but I’m just frustrated enough with the way Gus was written that I don’t care. Oh also the whole “too fat to lean on the desk thing” is so archaic and fatphobic. It was just pushing all my buttons. Really sad bc the cover is so cute and I was excited about both race and disability representation. Disappointing.

I loved reading There’s Pumpkins About You. This cozy, lighthearted romance was just what I needed. The Enemies to Friends and Slow Burn aspects of the story kept me entertained. The banter between Wren and Gus was so honest and genuine. I also enjoyed the peek into the world of Autism in its many forms and nuances. The cover drew me in, but the writing is what kept me hooked. I read this in one day. I loved it.

I read There’s Pumpkin About You in one day—it was that easy to fall into this cozy, autumn romance. As an autistic reader, I always approach representation with some anxiety. Misrepresentation can be painful, especially when it’s unexpected (I appreciated the author’s note about August’s neurodivergence at the start, though I wish it had been noted in the description as well). That said, I absolutely loved August’s character. His perspective felt authentic and relatable, and for the first time in a while, I felt seen.

I also loved Wren and August’s relationship. They found a way to communicate that worked for them—even if it felt unusual or “wrong” to those around them. Their connection felt genuine, and I appreciated that they both made intentional efforts to understand one another. Wren, in particular, was thoughtful in the way she adapted without losing herself. They were also surrounded by a small community who genuinely cared about both of them and sought to help them understand each other’s perspective in respectful and supportive ways.

My only frustration came from the broader town’s treatment of August. I struggled with the lack of understanding he faced, and I wished there had been stronger pushback from his brothers toward the way the town dismissed or misunderstood August.

Overall, There’s Pumpkin About You is a heartwarming, gentle romance that handles neurodivergence with care. I’m grateful for this story and the way it allowed me to feel seen while offering a cozy, autumn love story I’ll be recommending to others.

There’s Pumpkin About You is a cozy, witty fall rom-com bursting with charm. Wren and August’s banter, small-town setting, and slow-burn romance make this an irresistible seasonal read.

📚🎃 There’s Pumpkin About You - Athena Carstairs
I really enjoyed this cozy, autumnal romance it had all the charm of a Hallmark movie with just enough depth to keep it engaging. The autumn setting was warm and inviting, and I loved how the story wove together romance, friendship, and personal growth.

The portrayal of the autistic MMC was particularly well done, respectful, and clearly written with understanding. It didn’t overshadow the plot but added another layer of depth that felt natural and appreciated.

The wider friendship group was a highlight for me. Each character added something to the story, and I’m hopeful we’ll get to follow their journeys in future books.

A wholesome, heartfelt read—perfect for curling up with as the leaves start to turn.

#NetGalley #TheresPumpkinAboutYou #AutumnReads #NeurodivergentRomance #CozyRomance #TheFitishReader

This book gave me exactly the vibes I needed. I picked it up for the fall mood and it really delivered.
I liked how fast I got into the story. It was a short read, but it didn’t feel rushed. The atmosphere pulled me in quickly. August and Wren were a cute match. They annoyed each other at first but in a way that felt fun and natural. I enjoyed their banter and how they started to understand each other with time. August was grumpy and quiet, but also kind in his own way, and I liked how his autism was written with care, without stereotypes, and it's something I highly appreciated. Wren brought more energy and helped balance him out. The small town setting was a big win too. I really hope there will be more books with other characters from the town, because it feels like there’s still a lot to tell. Thank you so much to the author, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving a honest review

This is so cheesy and cute!

It’s like a warm hug with a pumpkin spice latte and now I’m soo ready for autumn.

I really liked how Gus was represented and that it shows how some people, particularly in smaller towns or the older generations still don’t understand autism and how it can manifest as prejudice due to misunderstanding.

The romance was really slow burn and the found family aspect was really cute. I really found myself forgetting about the reason Wren was there (the party) but I didn’t mind because I was there for the vibes and the romance.

Sometimes the dialogue was a little clunky and over explanatory and some of the prose is a little stilted at times but in general it was fine.

A nice easy autumn cute read

3 stars

Cute and lighthearted. I enjoyed the small town, cozy, fall vibe. I enjoyed all of the characters except Sandra. She was a turd. I love that Wren was able to break through Gus's walls and get him to open up. I feel like this did drag on leading up to the romance and I was a little disappointed. I have mixed feelings about this book. I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it either. It was just okay.

Wren is on a mission to plan the ultimate fall-themed 30th birthday party for her best friend—and hopefully turn it into a career-defining moment for her event planning business. Her dream location? Goldleaf Pumpkin Farm. But there’s a catch—she needs the cooperation of the farm’s owner, August Finch, a broody and reluctant participant who isn’t exactly excited about her big ideas.

What follows is a mix of hayrides, heated arguments, and undeniable chemistry as Wren and August navigate their differences—and feelings.

Even though I read this in the middle of summer, it gave me all the autumn feels right from the start! Pumpkins, crisp air, grumpy-meets-sunshine dynamics, and small-town charm—this book delivers everything you’d want from a cozy fall romance.

Wren and Gus are such a great pair. I especially appreciated how the male main character is written as being on the autism spectrum. His perspective is handled with care and authenticity, giving insight into how he experiences daily life and relationships. Easily one of the best portrayals I’ve come across.

The story takes place entirely at the pumpkin farm, with low-stakes drama (which I loved!), strong character growth, and a gentle slow-burn romance. There’s only one mildly steamy scene, but honestly, the story is so engaging it doesn’t need more than that.

This was a charming, heartwarming read that left me smiling and longing for sweater weather. A perfect pick if you’re looking for a sweet, cozy fall escape!

Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and author for this ARC in exchange for a honest review.

A super easy and fun read that had me feeling so ready for autumn - bring on the cinnamon and spice!

I loved the cosy feel-good vibes, the small town setting and the charming characters. Great if you’re looking for a light-hearted seasonal palate cleanser.

The book is a bit slow at the start but I liked it more as it went on. They are cute and I loving seeing how much he wanted to try for her.

I received an arc through netgalley.

I wanted to love this book. It has everything an autumn lover should want. A small town pumpkin farm, a coffee shop with cinnamon in the name, a mismatched couple, but honestly it just didn't hit the mark for me.

Wren & Gus just don't seem to have any chemistry. The use of the word "sweetheart" as a term of endearment always gives me the ick (but that's a personal thing) and the whole story just lacked warmth & depth.

a huge nod to the author for her autistic rep - I can't comment on how well it was done as i feel, as a neurotypical, it's not my lane to make judgement on its accuracy.

A classic trope, grumpy/sunshine and forced proximity, set in a small town with gossip and judgement galore - this book was a quick read for me, and I suspect will be well loved by others.

From a disability perspective, this was hit and miss for me but I so appreciate the authors research into depicting the wide spectrum of autism. This autistic man was not grumpy, imo, he was hurt and managing it as best he could - something about this storyline was missing for me. When we label bluntness and communication style as “grumpy”, it’s a judgement rather than curiosity and acceptance. I did appreciate the initial authors note and nod to neurodivergence, discussion of ableism was well done.

I struggled to connect with Wren, who despite leading about autistic traits, didn’t seem to adjust her lens or responses. It bothered me, which made it more difficult to empathize for her own struggles. Their banter was cute at times, and a bit grating other times.

I’m sure this story will land well with others, it wasn’t for me. I’m definitely a mood reader and don’t believe every book is for every reader.

I absolutely loved this book. If you're looking for a cozy fall read with some romance this book is for you. I also love the fact it supports and covers the Autism spectrum and how people deal with have it.

4.25 ⭐

This book was so cosy and a perfect pick for a rainy afternoon. I especially appreciated the way the author represented autism. You can see the effort they put in to show that autism exists on a spectrum and is often harder to identify, as most people just assume them to be difficult or stubborn (coming from someone whose best friend has mild autism, I can see the effort they made to make it seem as authentic as possible).

It's a classic, he fell first and harder, grumpy x sunshine, but didn't feel overdone.
(One thing I hate about small towns is how nosy and prejudicial and territorial they are about everyone and everything.)

Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, and NetGalley for providing an early proof in exchange for an honest review.

This was a cute little fall read! I enjoyed some bits and then there were bits I couldn't. I feel a lot of other people will enjoy this book heaps.

Will definitely be reading from this author again

This book is perfect for fans looking to scratch The Pumpkin Spice cafe itch with the small town setting and the recluse farmer and the bubbly fmc. I enjoyed the setting and the side characters, I did feel the romance was a little off at times. Wren was really likeable and her witty comebacks to August were entertaining but I didn’t warm to their relationship. I felt August wasn’t a particularly likeable character even after he opened up about his vulnerabilities. I would have hoped to see a different side to him as he became comfortable around Wren, but he acted the same and a little mean,

Overall, I enjoyed the story, setting and it was a quick and easy read,