Give Me Butterflies
This wholesome debut novel follows the budding connection between Millie, a spunky but anxious entomologist, and Finn, an astronomer with a penchant for themed ties and a broodiness that belies a still-simmering grief. Millie is fighting through the pain of her last breakup with a toxic man who made her doubt her self-worth while preparing herself for a huge promotion at the Wilhelmina Natural Science Museum; the last thing she needs is for the grump in the astronomy department with the piercing blue eyes to hang around underfoot for her to crash into on several occasions. The pain of losing his sister is still fresh for Finn, and he can’t help if he comes off a little caustic at work since he now has two nieces to raise, but something about Millie’s bright personality has him drawn like a moth to a flame. Told from a dual point of view, this grumpy-sunshine romance is heartfelt and tender, with just the right amount of steam. While slow at times, there isn’t a third act breakup to be found, with both MCs communicating with each other and with a well-rounded cast of memorable side characters.