Rescued by Halfling House

This is a really lovely story - in fact, I love the whole series! It ticks so many boxes for me and as the author recently shared, it's coming out in audio format soon, which has me absolutely squealing with joy. Rescued By Halfling House sees Ellie, Clara and the kids back in their own - repaired - home and facing several challenges unique to this world. The found family trope is my absolute favourite and Ms Vassallo writes that superbly. A Greek goddess who is disillusioned with her Pantheon fosters magical halfling children and gives them the home and love they would usually be denied. It is a beautiful idea and just oozes comfort in that feel good way that warms a soul. There's also humour aplenty because, well - kids! There is some nice character growth included in this one, which I appreciated. It's always a positive experience seeing someone realise their mistakes or open their eyes to a flaw, and be able to use that as a foundation for some attitude adjustment. I am thrilled that it's set in Australia! The author's love for her country and the bush comes through clearly in her sensitive writing where she doesn't gloss over dangers but still highlights the mateship that is a big part of our community spirit. One character talks about the healing quality of being out in the bush and to me, that just rang of a genuine and deep appreciation. The magic in these stories is uncommon but well crafted into a believable and enthralling system. There's the Greek influence as well as an Irish one. Gods from both Pantheons visit in this book to add impetus to the narrative and some familial reconnections. It's an absolute delight to see the focus of the MC's relationship be each other and not the immortal/mortal conundrum that is often used to add drama to similar pairings in other books. Ellie and Mason's bond is based on respect, bouyed by humour and nourished by genuine care and is relationship goals. And here again Ms Vassallo's sensitivity is showcased in how she writes of the dynamics and give and take in their connection. The ending was absolutely frenetic!!! It was so hard to stay on the page because Ms Vassallo had added a high tension situation into a fast paced conclusion. I'd still call this a cosy story but be prepared to ignore a phone call or knock on the door because you won't want to put the book down. I really don't think the author can do any wrong with this series and I'm looking forward to reading many more instalments.