Savor It (Spunes, OR, #1) – A Cozy Journey into Heartfelt Romance
There’s something undeniably magnetic about small-town romances, especially when they’re penned by a talented author like Tarah DeWitt. When I stumbled upon Savor It, I felt a familiar tug; the charming Pacific Northwest backdrop and a promise of heartfelt connections drew me in instantly. And let me tell you, it was a delightful read that wrapped me in warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of my own favorite escapes.
At its core, Savor It is a love letter to embracing life amid grief and finding solace in unexpected places. The story revolves around Fisher, a weary big-city chef battling burnout, and Sage, a small-town teacher who finds joy in life’s simple pleasures. Their chemistry is immediate, yet the narrative wisely leans into the “grumpy x sunshine” trope, creating a slow-burning romance layered with vulnerability and emotional depth.
One standout aspect of DeWitt’s writing is the authenticity with which she crafts her characters and their environments. Spunes, Oregon, feels like a real, living town—a place I could easily envision myself wandering through, complete with quirky townsfolk and whimsical charm. The detailed settings don’t just provide a backdrop; they breathe life into the characters. From Fisher’s struggles with his past to Sage’s nurturing spirit, their journeys are relatable and poignant. In particular, the dual perspective enriches our understanding of their experiences and highlights the importance of support during life’s darkest moments.
The handling of grief struck a chord with me. Fisher and his niece, Indy, navigate their shared loss delicately, while Sage’s own backstory adds layers to their friendship. The way Sage supports Fisher is beautifully rendered; it’s the kind of companionship everyone deserves when facing the turmoil of grief. Moments like, “You once told me you thought you were a lot of nots. I want you to know that to me, you’re everything,” resonate deeply, reflecting love’s ability to affirm our very existence.
That said, I found the pacing a bit uneven. The first third drips with careful buildup, immersing us into their lives, while the final act whirls through resolutions a tad too quickly. I wished for more time to linger on the restaurant opening and the town’s race—events that could have added further richness to their shared experience. Yet, these minor pacing hiccups didn’t overshadow the heart of the story.
Savor It isn’t just a delightful summer read; it’s a warm embrace that encourages us to cherish the little moments and the people who walk alongside us through life’s complexities. If you’re someone who adores genuine connections, relatable characters, and a sprinkle of humor amidst the heartache, then this book is tailored for you. It will leave you with many delightful quotes to ponder, such as, “Don’t worry so much about the clouds that you miss the flowers at your feet,” reminding us that joy exists even in the shadows.
With tears in my eyes and a smile on my face, I closed the book, completely enchanted. Here’s hoping for more tales set in Spunes, perhaps with Wren and Ellis at the forefront next time. Thanks to NetGalley and Tarah DeWitt for this gem—I can’t recommend it enough! Happy reading, friends! 🥰
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