New Release Book Review: Starting From Scratch by Penelope Janu

My first review for the year and I thought I’d kick it off with one of my most anticipated reads for the beginning of 2021, I always know I’m in for a great read when I pick up a Penelope Janu novel and meet her characters.

In her latest novel, Sapphie has so many imperfections, she is a great character, perfectly imperfect as her grandmother would have said.

I loved Matts too, he was solid and true to Sapphie.

I really enjoyed learning about water systems, wetlands, rivers, swamps, oh, and frogs. Penelope Janu has done a wonderful job of managing to educate us as we read without it becoming too formal.

There were so many secrets and misunderstandings, some really big secrets, that I wondered how they’d dig through them all, especially seeing how stubborn Sapphie could be. Their shared past is a complicated one and they’ve both been through a lot and both been hurt by things that happened. A lot of work had to go into renewing the relationship between Sapphie and Matts, it’s a good job Matts was determined to reconnect, because Sapphie was determined to keep him away.

Sapphie’s dad was a piece of work, and I was hoping he’d get his comeuppance for past and present behaviours.

Sapphie’s friend Hugh was lovely, I’d have liked to get to know him better, maybe he’ll get his own book, but I’m still waiting for my favourite male, Nate, from previous novels to get his happy ever after, so I’m hoping that happens first.

Another great read, one to start the new year with.

Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Australia for a digital copy in return for an honest review.