About the Book
Synopsis from Goodreads:
Escaping a broken engagement and a life that never felt like her own, English teacher Tori Lane arrives in Porter Falls, New Hampshire, searching for a fresh start. What she finds is Mirthwood Cottage on the edge of Clearwater Lake, a teaching position at the prestigious Brindleton Academy, and complications she never anticipated.
When fifteen-year-old Noah shows up to class with a forged excuse note, Tori recognizes the signs of a kid trying to hold his world together alone—because she's been that kid. Against school policy and her colleague Elliot Carmichael's warnings, she decides to help Noah navigate his crisis rather than report him to the authorities. It's a choice that could cost her everything.
Elliot comes from a world of privilege and expectations where playing by the rules has always been the safe choice. But as he and Tori grow closer, he begins to understand that sometimes the right thing and the safe thing aren't the same. When his research into his family's history uncovers a truth that could destroy someone Tori has come to care about, Elliot faces an impossible loyalty to his family legacy or protecting the people who matter most.
Set against the backdrop of a small New England town with secrets buried as deep as its history, Mirthwood Cottage is a story about second chances, found family, and the courage it takes to fight for what's right—even when the cost is steep.
My Review
Tori Lane accepts a teaching position at Brindleton Academy in Porter Falls, New Hampshire. She even finds a cute house called Mirthwood Cottage. She’s settling in quite nicely until she faces a difficult situation.
One of her students, Noah, is very quiet and seems to stay by himself. When he gives her a note from his mother, Tina realizes it’s forged and there’s more to this kid’s situation than anyone suspects. School policy doesn’t allow for Tina to get involved, but she can’t help herself. She can’t stand to see this kid going through difficult times. Fellow teacher, Elliot Carmichael, warns her to stay away but finds himself unable to heed his own advice.
They team up to help Noah and his family risking their own careers. Then, a town secret threatens to tear the couple apart forever. Can they survive this?
This is Rebecca Stevenson at her finest. Mirthwood Cottage is the first book of a brand new series and it’s off to an amazing start. It’s a powerful look into families, love and understanding. This book touches all the heartstrings. A poignant, sweet romance to start a heartwarming series. The characters are placed into realistic situations and are people you can root for. It’s perfect for fans of the Hallmark movies. This would fit in perfectly with that genre. A read that will warm your heart.
For reading challenges:
Literary Escapes Reading Challenge 2026 (New Hampshire)
I borrowed this one from the Kindle Unlimited library. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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