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Wishful #2
Know Me Well
Welcome back to Wishful, Mississppi, full of eccentric characters and southern charm, where author Kait Nolan delivers another heart-warming story of a strong, successful woman and the equally strong man who learns how to be her partner.
Liam Montgomery is the last person who'd call himself a hero, but he does have a tendency to try to save the world. Now that he's left the Marine Corps and returned to Wishful, he feels out of place and unsure of what comes next. He does know one thing: The girl who used to look up to him like a brother is all grown up. No way he can see her as a little sister now. And she won't give him the time of day.
Riley Gower isn't holding out for a hero. In fact, a knight in shining armor is the last thing she wants. She's been watching her mother chase that fairy tale for most of her life, with Riley the one left to pick up the pieces of unhappily ever after. Running Wishful's downtown pharmacy is a dream Riley's worked toward for years. Now that the business is finally hers, the realities of the current economy have made it seem like the dream is falling apart. So when her mother calls, expecting yet another rescue, Riley feels like she's spread thinner than the last pat of butter at Sunday dinner.
It's hard enough for a woman like Riley to admit she could use a hand, but mixed up with the embarrassment of a childhood crush and the devastating attraction sizzling between them? No way. Liam is determined to help, but taking down insurgents is less complicated than infiltrating Riley's defenses. This will require reinforcements. And a plan.
Liam Montgomery is the last person who'd call himself a hero, but he does have a tendency to try to save the world. Now that he's left the Marine Corps and returned to Wishful, he feels out of place and unsure of what comes next. He does know one thing: The girl who used to look up to him like a brother is all grown up. No way he can see her as a little sister now. And she won't give him the time of day.
Riley Gower isn't holding out for a hero. In fact, a knight in shining armor is the last thing she wants. She's been watching her mother chase that fairy tale for most of her life, with Riley the one left to pick up the pieces of unhappily ever after. Running Wishful's downtown pharmacy is a dream Riley's worked toward for years. Now that the business is finally hers, the realities of the current economy have made it seem like the dream is falling apart. So when her mother calls, expecting yet another rescue, Riley feels like she's spread thinner than the last pat of butter at Sunday dinner.
It's hard enough for a woman like Riley to admit she could use a hand, but mixed up with the embarrassment of a childhood crush and the devastating attraction sizzling between them? No way. Liam is determined to help, but taking down insurgents is less complicated than infiltrating Riley's defenses. This will require reinforcements. And a plan.
Kindle Edition
First published August 14, 2015
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About the author
Kait Nolan
154 books1,363 followersKait Nolan is a RITA® Award-winning Mississippi author who calls everyone sugar, honey, or darlin', and can wield a 'Bless your heart' like a Snuggie or a saber, depending on requirements. She believes in love, laughter, and that tacos are the world's most perfect food. When she's not writing, reading, working the evil day job, or wrangling family (both the two-legged and the four-), you can find her obsessively watching The Great British Bake Off.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
February 6, 2017
I read this for the Guy/Girl Next Door square for Romance Bingo and it was also a Kindle Freebie selection.
"I feel like sending a message out to every teenage girl everywhere who ever had a crush on her best friend's big brother---don't give up."
There's a sweetness to this story that can't be denied. The hero enjoys hugs from his mom and never misses a chance to act the gentleman. The heroine's stubborn streak about not accepting help got run into the ground a bit but she's still likable.
The first half they are pretty cute with their desire but both a bit scared to make the first move. The middle and second half drags a bit but if you enjoy encompassing small town stories, you might enjoy the feel and characters here that provide that. The second half gets a bit racy for how the story starts off with shorter but sexy scenes.
This is a sweeter, a bit more slow moving Jill Shalvis equivalent small town romance. The couple is cute and sweet, the secondary characters range from darling to can't wait for their book, and the ending will have an An Officer and a Gentleman fan sighing happily.
"I feel like sending a message out to every teenage girl everywhere who ever had a crush on her best friend's big brother---don't give up."
There's a sweetness to this story that can't be denied. The hero enjoys hugs from his mom and never misses a chance to act the gentleman. The heroine's stubborn streak about not accepting help got run into the ground a bit but she's still likable.
The first half they are pretty cute with their desire but both a bit scared to make the first move. The middle and second half drags a bit but if you enjoy encompassing small town stories, you might enjoy the feel and characters here that provide that. The second half gets a bit racy for how the story starts off with shorter but sexy scenes.
This is a sweeter, a bit more slow moving Jill Shalvis equivalent small town romance. The couple is cute and sweet, the secondary characters range from darling to can't wait for their book, and the ending will have an An Officer and a Gentleman fan sighing happily.
November 15, 2019
3 Decent-ish Stars
Liam Montgomery came back to Wishful, Mississippi after his dad’s death, to help his mum. Riley Gower runs the local pharmacy, which she now owns having bought it off Liam’s mum. The two have had a close bond since childhood, Liam protecting her when she needed someone the most, and couldn’t turn to her mother, Liam was always wholly unaware of the massive crush she had on him, but now back and seeing the fully grownup Riley, he can’t help but see her in a new light (I have to say I wasn’t keen on the instances early in the book when he kept saying/thinking she was like a sister).
Overall this was a light, sweet and easy read, that I liked reading as a one off, and maybe in the future when I need something super light (a re-read is likely simply because I’m already forgetting what happened and the book is staying on my kindle).
This book reminded me a little of Kirsty Mosley’s book The Boy Who Sneaks in My Bedroom Window, at least when it comes to Liam and Riley’s childhood connection. I do wish there had been some more heat and once they got together some of the energy found in the first half had remained.
Liam Montgomery came back to Wishful, Mississippi after his dad’s death, to help his mum. Riley Gower runs the local pharmacy, which she now owns having bought it off Liam’s mum. The two have had a close bond since childhood, Liam protecting her when she needed someone the most, and couldn’t turn to her mother, Liam was always wholly unaware of the massive crush she had on him, but now back and seeing the fully grownup Riley, he can’t help but see her in a new light (I have to say I wasn’t keen on the instances early in the book when he kept saying/thinking she was like a sister).
Overall this was a light, sweet and easy read, that I liked reading as a one off, and maybe in the future when I need something super light (a re-read is likely simply because I’m already forgetting what happened and the book is staying on my kindle).
This book reminded me a little of Kirsty Mosley’s book The Boy Who Sneaks in My Bedroom Window, at least when it comes to Liam and Riley’s childhood connection. I do wish there had been some more heat and once they got together some of the energy found in the first half had remained.
August 17, 2015
This story gets 4.8 out of five stars from me. I simply didn't want to put it down.
I'll be honest and say I had a crush on Liam when I read the first book in this series. It was delightful to climb inside Riley's skin and fall totally in love with this handsome Marine.
As I've come to expect from Ms. Nolan, the characters were well-drawn, relateable and had unique, witty voices. She is a master at getting us inside her characters' heads.
I found the issues Riley and Liam faced much easier to relate to than those in the first book of this series. (Why have I not read the second book? That might need to be remedied.) The plot felt authentic and the usual misunderstandings of many romances weren't allowed to spiral out of control.
Yes, there are steamy scenes, but they don't detract from the overall amazing storyline. This is a must read for people who love romance. And I really want to visit Wishful, Mississippi. Just saying.
I'll be honest and say I had a crush on Liam when I read the first book in this series. It was delightful to climb inside Riley's skin and fall totally in love with this handsome Marine.
As I've come to expect from Ms. Nolan, the characters were well-drawn, relateable and had unique, witty voices. She is a master at getting us inside her characters' heads.
I found the issues Riley and Liam faced much easier to relate to than those in the first book of this series. (Why have I not read the second book? That might need to be remedied.) The plot felt authentic and the usual misunderstandings of many romances weren't allowed to spiral out of control.
Yes, there are steamy scenes, but they don't detract from the overall amazing storyline. This is a must read for people who love romance. And I really want to visit Wishful, Mississippi. Just saying.
February 6, 2017
This book started fine but after they get together it's boring. The scene where they actually get together sucks and feels off. For some odd reason the constant references to essential oils got on my nerves. The first half of the book is full of drama and unfortunate events which makes things captivating, and the second half is just all too happy. Maybe that's why I lost interest. It's like the author wanted to tie everything up perfectly which was both unrealistic and uninteresting. Meh. I skipped most of the pages from 3/4 to the end. Couldn't related to the characters. Don't understand why this book has that many good reviews.
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December 29, 2020Available in eBook, print and audio: https://books2read.com/knowmewell
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July 9, 2020
This is Book 2 in the Wishful series. While titles are sold individually, the series has been collected into box sets of 3 books each. Know Me Well is part of Volume 1 which is available in ebook & audio formats.
Kait Nolan is one of my favorite steamy small town romance authors. Her writing is a fantastic combination of fairly low angst, community charm, and a few sexy scenes. Know Me Well is also a mashup of some of my favorite tropes including former military and Best Friend’s Brother/Sister’s Best Friend. Liam is now out of the Marines and back in Wishful trying to find his “new normal” in life as a civilian. Riley is self-reliant to a fault and nursing a 12 year crush on Liam. I love that we get to enjoy Liam & Riley as a couple for a big part of the story - including his need to care & protect at odds with her desire to remain independent. There are a LOT of laughs in this one, a few tears, and definitely an HEA.
Wishful’s quirky residents continue to remind me of the small Southern town I grew up in. I’m looking forward to all their stories.
Amy McFadden continues to do a great job of giving a unique voice to everyone in this huge cast of characters. What I love is that she’s consistent how she voices them through the series which makes these audios completely bingeable.
Kait Nolan is one of my favorite steamy small town romance authors. Her writing is a fantastic combination of fairly low angst, community charm, and a few sexy scenes. Know Me Well is also a mashup of some of my favorite tropes including former military and Best Friend’s Brother/Sister’s Best Friend. Liam is now out of the Marines and back in Wishful trying to find his “new normal” in life as a civilian. Riley is self-reliant to a fault and nursing a 12 year crush on Liam. I love that we get to enjoy Liam & Riley as a couple for a big part of the story - including his need to care & protect at odds with her desire to remain independent. There are a LOT of laughs in this one, a few tears, and definitely an HEA.
Wishful’s quirky residents continue to remind me of the small Southern town I grew up in. I’m looking forward to all their stories.
Amy McFadden continues to do a great job of giving a unique voice to everyone in this huge cast of characters. What I love is that she’s consistent how she voices them through the series which makes these audios completely bingeable.
January 20, 2020
Okay, so this wasn't bad per se, it just wasn't all that great. The characters were alright, though neither of the mains really had anything going for them. I liked the idea of Riley being the one responsible for her mum, that was interesting but apart from that, not much else was going on.
I thought they became 'official' way too fast and out of nowhere, they hadn't seen each other for like 12 years, how on Earth would they know what that persons like? Not to mention that even when they did 'know'(like, had proper, deep conversations)each other, it was only basically for a week. Nothing really came after it either, they were together and happy ig and that was the end.
Riley's troubles with the pharmacy frustrated me to no end, just one bad thing after another, but when the *really* bad thing happened, it was resolved so quickly that it didn't even feel like it happened.
Overall, I wasn't a big fan of this book and I find it very doubtful that I'd go and read the others in the series. Nothing felt like it was resolved in a reasonable and authentic manner.
I thought they became 'official' way too fast and out of nowhere, they hadn't seen each other for like 12 years, how on Earth would they know what that persons like? Not to mention that even when they did 'know'(like, had proper, deep conversations)each other, it was only basically for a week. Nothing really came after it either, they were together and happy ig and that was the end.
Riley's troubles with the pharmacy frustrated me to no end, just one bad thing after another, but when the *really* bad thing happened, it was resolved so quickly that it didn't even feel like it happened.
Overall, I wasn't a big fan of this book and I find it very doubtful that I'd go and read the others in the series. Nothing felt like it was resolved in a reasonable and authentic manner.
June 8, 2020
I Need A Liam 💙
Oh my goodness! Liam and Riley were absolutely perfect! I loved everything about their love story. I loved knowing how he always protective her when they were younger to even when he got back. He's was the sweetest! Even when Riley was being stubborn he never gave of her! That ending was beautiful! 💙 Can't wait to go back to Wishful soon! ☺
Oh my goodness! Liam and Riley were absolutely perfect! I loved everything about their love story. I loved knowing how he always protective her when they were younger to even when he got back. He's was the sweetest! Even when Riley was being stubborn he never gave of her! That ending was beautiful! 💙 Can't wait to go back to Wishful soon! ☺
January 20, 2022
Another cute slight age gap romance sent in a small town.
Liam is ridiculously cute for being a retired marine. There’s no ptsd on his end but on Riley’s end she’s had a pretty hard time with her mum.
3 stars I’ll carry on the series :)
Audio is good.
Liam is ridiculously cute for being a retired marine. There’s no ptsd on his end but on Riley’s end she’s had a pretty hard time with her mum.
3 stars I’ll carry on the series :)
Audio is good.
June 26, 2021
Okay so once again this book (and the entire series) is super cheesy but super enjoyable. Liam and Riley are oh so adorable, and PLEASE tell me when we're getting a Reuben book because I can't find info about one anywhere and he's my favourite and we need him to find love.
In saying all that, I am incredibly uncomfortable with how this book deals with women's bodies and the idea of femininity - curves being described as 'a real woman', comparing women's bodies and putting certain body shapes down as not 'real women' when describing pin-up, saying 'to his mind, a woman was ultimately the grounded centre of a man and as such, ought to be substantial' - like besties, no.
The ending was all just a bit dramatic and over the top for me, as was the . The Sharilyn romance lacked depth and was too easily resolved, and why place the blame on a literal child when her mother brought a predator into the house?! And the miscommunication and overreaction tropes that were used were just a bit much.
In spite of its issues, this is still a fun & enjoyable read and I really liked the main couple together, so would still recommend if you enjoyed book one and want some more small town romance in your life.
In saying all that, I am incredibly uncomfortable with how this book deals with women's bodies and the idea of femininity - curves being described as 'a real woman', comparing women's bodies and putting certain body shapes down as not 'real women' when describing pin-up, saying 'to his mind, a woman was ultimately the grounded centre of a man and as such, ought to be substantial' - like besties, no.
The ending was all just a bit dramatic and over the top for me, as was the . The Sharilyn romance lacked depth and was too easily resolved, and why place the blame on a literal child when her mother brought a predator into the house?! And the miscommunication and overreaction tropes that were used were just a bit much.
In spite of its issues, this is still a fun & enjoyable read and I really liked the main couple together, so would still recommend if you enjoyed book one and want some more small town romance in your life.
August 11, 2015
Another great story by Kait Nolan! Liam Montgomery came back to Wishful, Mississippi after his dad died, to help his Mom. Riley Gower runs the local pharmacy. They have known each over since they were kids. Riley has had a crush on Liam since forever. Can they work it out? Of course they do, but there are some hurdles, Riley doesn't like to accept help, from anyone, and we all know, Wishful is full of helpful people, especially hot Liam. This is a great story, kept my interest from start to finish. And lets face it, Liam is hot, who wouldn't want a hot Marine helping them!!!!!
October 25, 2016
Steel Magnolias abound in the small town of Wishful, our heroine this time, Riley Gower, finds someone who makes her stronger by allowing him to help her rather than taking the burden entirely upon herself. The hardest thing any SM has ever learned to do with grace rather than stubborn pride dictating she never accepts help no matter what.
January 3, 2017
I love a small town southern romance! Makes me think of my own happy ever after.
I always love reading about a small town southern romance! Makes me think of my very own happy ever after.
I always love reading about a small town southern romance! Makes me think of my very own happy ever after.
March 11, 2022
Romantic And Heartfelt Tale To Find One's Match
Know Me Well is Book#2 in the Wishful Series by the wonderful authoress Kait Nolan. I could not stop reading and lost a night of sleep, as the story was such an unexpected delight. The build up, back story, and circumstances that wove the tale is beautifully depicted between a fiercely independent professional woman and a strong sensitive Marine trying to find his place. Their journey to love and a life long partnership allows them to make some surprising discoveries about themselves.
Wishful Pharmacist, Small Business Owner, and Self-Sufficient Riley Marie Gower, has always had only herself to rely on. After losing her father in the line of duty, she has been responsible for taking care of the finances for herself and her mother from a very young age. Running the pharmacy has been her dream since college, and she is doing her very best to stay in the black. However, a long lost friend and protector has returned back to town leaving her frustrated and annoyed due to their history and some unfinished business. She has no time for a relationship as she is busy building her career. Yet, when has love ever been convenient and expected? Riley will need to learn this lesson and soon.
Ex-Marine, Hometown Hero, and Overall Handy Man, Liam Montgomery feels lost after serving Uncle Sam his walking papers. He has always appreciated the structure of the Marine Corps, and the role of being a shield for family, friends, and people in war torn regions. Being a civilian is outside of his comfort zone. Since he is the jack of all trades, he is keeping busy by doing various chores, renovations, and car repairs, so that he can figure out what he wants to do with the rest of his life. Although, there is a particular silver screen lookalike voluptuous distraction that is not letting him focus on what Liam deems important. But with their complicated past, there is a lot to sort through before he can progress towards what his heart desires most.
This story was amazing and it was a treat to re-visit some of the reoccurring characters of Wishful. This authoress is very thorough with her research as she was able to narrate the business aspects of running a pharmacy, and I even learned some tidbits about historical renovations. This small town is one of my most favourite places in the fictional realm. The slow amassing towards Liam and Riley's passionate entanglement and hot sexy times, had me engrossed. The descriptions were detailed and realistic. The supporting characters added many dimensions to the plot making it robust and comprehensive. I enjoyed my time thoroughly.
Knowing myself, I am going to re-read the story in future. I cannot wait to explore more of the Wishful Series and read the Spinoff Series Wishing For A Hero as well. If you are looking for a sweet take charge ex-military man, a brave career oriented woman, some interesting supporting actors, a beautiful small town, an earnest tale, gorgeous writing, and some steamy love making, then don't miss this book!
Know Me Well is Book#2 in the Wishful Series by the wonderful authoress Kait Nolan. I could not stop reading and lost a night of sleep, as the story was such an unexpected delight. The build up, back story, and circumstances that wove the tale is beautifully depicted between a fiercely independent professional woman and a strong sensitive Marine trying to find his place. Their journey to love and a life long partnership allows them to make some surprising discoveries about themselves.
Wishful Pharmacist, Small Business Owner, and Self-Sufficient Riley Marie Gower, has always had only herself to rely on. After losing her father in the line of duty, she has been responsible for taking care of the finances for herself and her mother from a very young age. Running the pharmacy has been her dream since college, and she is doing her very best to stay in the black. However, a long lost friend and protector has returned back to town leaving her frustrated and annoyed due to their history and some unfinished business. She has no time for a relationship as she is busy building her career. Yet, when has love ever been convenient and expected? Riley will need to learn this lesson and soon.
Ex-Marine, Hometown Hero, and Overall Handy Man, Liam Montgomery feels lost after serving Uncle Sam his walking papers. He has always appreciated the structure of the Marine Corps, and the role of being a shield for family, friends, and people in war torn regions. Being a civilian is outside of his comfort zone. Since he is the jack of all trades, he is keeping busy by doing various chores, renovations, and car repairs, so that he can figure out what he wants to do with the rest of his life. Although, there is a particular silver screen lookalike voluptuous distraction that is not letting him focus on what Liam deems important. But with their complicated past, there is a lot to sort through before he can progress towards what his heart desires most.
This story was amazing and it was a treat to re-visit some of the reoccurring characters of Wishful. This authoress is very thorough with her research as she was able to narrate the business aspects of running a pharmacy, and I even learned some tidbits about historical renovations. This small town is one of my most favourite places in the fictional realm. The slow amassing towards Liam and Riley's passionate entanglement and hot sexy times, had me engrossed. The descriptions were detailed and realistic. The supporting characters added many dimensions to the plot making it robust and comprehensive. I enjoyed my time thoroughly.
Knowing myself, I am going to re-read the story in future. I cannot wait to explore more of the Wishful Series and read the Spinoff Series Wishing For A Hero as well. If you are looking for a sweet take charge ex-military man, a brave career oriented woman, some interesting supporting actors, a beautiful small town, an earnest tale, gorgeous writing, and some steamy love making, then don't miss this book!
March 24, 2018
Riley Gower bought the pharmacy business from Molly Montgomery a whole year ago. Since then, she’s struggled to keep it in the black and sending money to her mother each time her latest man dumps her drains her account with no chance of it ever being paid back. But then again, it’s always been like that since her father died when she was five.
The only person who has ever had her back when she barely knew she needed it was Liam Montgomery. He taught her self defense but probably didn’t expect her to use it on him when she hears someone in the apartment above the store.
Liam has adored Riley for a long time. He’s a Marine Staff Sergeant, home now and at a loose end. He used to blow stuff up but he wants to fix things around Riley.
Lately a lot of things break around her; she’s having a real streak of bad luck.
As long as one of things isn’t her heart.
***
Norah’s big plans are well on track for Wishful.
But when a Walgreens opens just outside of town, it has to take away business from Riley.
Riley was dirt poor, and with her mother’s endless search for men to support her, Riley has a huge chip on her shoulder about not asking for help, and trying to do everything by herself.
I’m just not sure why I don’t feel for these characters, the way I should. Wishful just isn’t working for me.
3 stars
The only person who has ever had her back when she barely knew she needed it was Liam Montgomery. He taught her self defense but probably didn’t expect her to use it on him when she hears someone in the apartment above the store.
Liam has adored Riley for a long time. He’s a Marine Staff Sergeant, home now and at a loose end. He used to blow stuff up but he wants to fix things around Riley.
Lately a lot of things break around her; she’s having a real streak of bad luck.
As long as one of things isn’t her heart.
***
Norah’s big plans are well on track for Wishful.
But when a Walgreens opens just outside of town, it has to take away business from Riley.
Riley was dirt poor, and with her mother’s endless search for men to support her, Riley has a huge chip on her shoulder about not asking for help, and trying to do everything by herself.
I’m just not sure why I don’t feel for these characters, the way I should. Wishful just isn’t working for me.
3 stars
February 25, 2022
Wishful Love
This is sweet, lighthearted read. The main characters are Liam, a war veteran who returned home with no clear plans, and Riley, the local pharmacist and his little sister best friend.
It's a pretty typical older brother in love with little sister's best friend. There were also doses of enemies turned to lovers. The book had something for everyone, even steamy sex. It seemed that everyone in this book talked about sex or had sex all the time. I've never read a book where everyone was involved in others sex lives. They knew who was in love with each other and should be together. They couldn't wait for couples to get together and seemingly did all in their power to get the couple together and in bed. They were very progressive about sex - unusual because most small towns are filled for narrow-minded people.
Riley was loved by all in the small town and went out of his way to help anyone which is supposedly typical of people in small towns. Riley didn't want help from anyone. She had been bullied throughout most of her school years because she was poor and her mother had an undeserved reputation. Riley had taken care and herself and her mother practically her entire life after her father died when she was five. She didn't want help from anyone because she could take care if herself with no help from anyone, especially a man.
Typical of some romances, this book has typical grammatical errors - phase instead of faze. How long will romance writers make the same irritating errors? I guess as long as they have no editors or none that catch such mindless mistakes. Even a grammar check would catch most of those. The book had some interesting characters and I can't wait to read their books.
This is sweet, lighthearted read. The main characters are Liam, a war veteran who returned home with no clear plans, and Riley, the local pharmacist and his little sister best friend.
It's a pretty typical older brother in love with little sister's best friend. There were also doses of enemies turned to lovers. The book had something for everyone, even steamy sex. It seemed that everyone in this book talked about sex or had sex all the time. I've never read a book where everyone was involved in others sex lives. They knew who was in love with each other and should be together. They couldn't wait for couples to get together and seemingly did all in their power to get the couple together and in bed. They were very progressive about sex - unusual because most small towns are filled for narrow-minded people.
Riley was loved by all in the small town and went out of his way to help anyone which is supposedly typical of people in small towns. Riley didn't want help from anyone. She had been bullied throughout most of her school years because she was poor and her mother had an undeserved reputation. Riley had taken care and herself and her mother practically her entire life after her father died when she was five. She didn't want help from anyone because she could take care if herself with no help from anyone, especially a man.
Typical of some romances, this book has typical grammatical errors - phase instead of faze. How long will romance writers make the same irritating errors? I guess as long as they have no editors or none that catch such mindless mistakes. Even a grammar check would catch most of those. The book had some interesting characters and I can't wait to read their books.
November 24, 2017
This story is the first I've ever read by Kait Nolan, and I am happy to say it won't be my last. I loved the small Southern town setting where everyone knows everyone and treats you like family. I'm also a sucker for friends-to-lovers stories, but I usually have a few criteria: 1) the protagonist MUST be a kickass woman that doesn't need saving, 2) the story MUST be wholeheartedly character-driven, and 3) there MUST be history between the characters (good and bad) woven throughout and just subtle enough that it doesn't overwhelm the narrative. Know Me Well excelled in all three!
Aside from this, I really loved how each character in the story was unique--none were carbon copies of another, and I felt really drawn to many of them (I'm even curious about one of the robbers and his backstory). Liam was the ultimate boy next door who went off to join the military, and Riley was just sassy and headstrong enough that she was believable without being over-the-top stubborn or annoying.
Also, I was so glad that Nolan didn't bring a third party in as an obstacle or potentially-tragic love triangle. Some stories work well with that kind of drama, but Know Me Well's Liam and Riley worked so much better without that hurdle to navigate.
Finally, as a Southern girl, I want to thank Nolan for not falling back on a lot of Southern stereotypes. I always become super frustrated when authors do that because it takes away from the heart of the story. Nolan definitely exceeded my expectations in that arena and I could really connect with the people and the place because it felt just like going home.
K
Aside from this, I really loved how each character in the story was unique--none were carbon copies of another, and I felt really drawn to many of them (I'm even curious about one of the robbers and his backstory). Liam was the ultimate boy next door who went off to join the military, and Riley was just sassy and headstrong enough that she was believable without being over-the-top stubborn or annoying.
Also, I was so glad that Nolan didn't bring a third party in as an obstacle or potentially-tragic love triangle. Some stories work well with that kind of drama, but Know Me Well's Liam and Riley worked so much better without that hurdle to navigate.
Finally, as a Southern girl, I want to thank Nolan for not falling back on a lot of Southern stereotypes. I always become super frustrated when authors do that because it takes away from the heart of the story. Nolan definitely exceeded my expectations in that arena and I could really connect with the people and the place because it felt just like going home.
K
June 26, 2024
Love, trust and finding home
I loved this sister’s best friend, small town romance with a side of missed opportunities. It was so easy to fall directly into this story with its wonderful balance of humor, heartwarming love, real life issues, painful pasts, and spice. It is just a feel good warm blanket happy kind of love story. I love protective cinnamon roll heroes like Liam especially when they are paired with strong women like Riley who need to be loved more than they need to be rescued. Riley is a pharmacist and owns the local pharmacy in small town Wishful. She is struggling a bit but determined to make it on her own. Liam is back in his hometown of Wishful after getting out of the Marines following the unexpected death of his father. He’s still not sure what he wants to do next. Riley was best friends with Liam’s younger sister and he protected her growing up. Now that he’s back in town there are hard to ignore sparks and chemistry but fate, avoidance and a series of interruptions cause the journey to their HEA to be a series of sputtering starts but nevertheless it is a wonderful journey of baggage unpacking, inner voice finding, and life course correction. This well written story with engaging dialogue, three dimensional characters, and a captivating storyline will give you all the swoony swoons while also pulling at your heartstrings with all the emotions. I am loving the people and the town of Wishful.
I loved this sister’s best friend, small town romance with a side of missed opportunities. It was so easy to fall directly into this story with its wonderful balance of humor, heartwarming love, real life issues, painful pasts, and spice. It is just a feel good warm blanket happy kind of love story. I love protective cinnamon roll heroes like Liam especially when they are paired with strong women like Riley who need to be loved more than they need to be rescued. Riley is a pharmacist and owns the local pharmacy in small town Wishful. She is struggling a bit but determined to make it on her own. Liam is back in his hometown of Wishful after getting out of the Marines following the unexpected death of his father. He’s still not sure what he wants to do next. Riley was best friends with Liam’s younger sister and he protected her growing up. Now that he’s back in town there are hard to ignore sparks and chemistry but fate, avoidance and a series of interruptions cause the journey to their HEA to be a series of sputtering starts but nevertheless it is a wonderful journey of baggage unpacking, inner voice finding, and life course correction. This well written story with engaging dialogue, three dimensional characters, and a captivating storyline will give you all the swoony swoons while also pulling at your heartstrings with all the emotions. I am loving the people and the town of Wishful.
August 21, 2025
Riley and Liam—she’s the local pharmacist and he’s returning for 12 years in the Marines. She had a major crush on him while growing up; his family was a safe place for her—her father died in action when she was 5, her mother didn’t handle it well and Riley became the adult, and Liam’s parents were bonus parents and his sister was her bestie. Liam had been her protector for years until he left her, and she spent those 12 years apart angry with him for leaving her behind and worrying every day for his safety. So the sparks were already there. And one day, the flame erupted and they were inseparable at night. Until they had a fight, mitigated by extenuating circumstances; fortunately, her friend talked her down and his mother helped him understand Riley better. While they were each cooling down to make up with the other one, her pharmacy got robbed while she was there, but she managed to press the panic button and incapacitate the robbers. Liam came in and held her in the aftermath, which made making up much easier for them both. And at the pharmacy’s grand re-opening, he whisked her off for a vacation as a reenactment of one of her fantasies and their HEA started. There are some editing issues, which would normally cause the ranking to be lower, but there’s a section of the book so raw, so real that it made me cry and I’m not one who cries easily. So, flaws and all, this book is worth 5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2017
Riley Gower has been best friends with Liam Montgomery's sister since they were children. Liam is out of the marines now since his father passed away. He has come home to make sure his mother is taken care of even though she does a good job on her own. Riley has been in love with Liam since she was 15 years old. He used to be her protector and she was mad at him when he joined the marines without saying a word to her. She was always afraid something would happen to him. Riley bout the town pharmacy from Liam's mother Molly and has been trying to make a go of it on her own. Ever since her father died when she was a child, she has been taking care of her mother. She is an independent, stubborn little thing. I loved the story of Liam and Riley finding their way to each other and the struggles they faced.
I loved Liam as he is always ready to help anyone, especially Riley. Riley's stubbornness sometimes drove me crazy, but I understood. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read the book.
I loved Liam as he is always ready to help anyone, especially Riley. Riley's stubbornness sometimes drove me crazy, but I understood. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read the book.
November 2, 2019
3.5
I like it when a Kindle freebie hits the spot. This tale of Riley and her best friend's older brother Liam was sweet where it needed to be and the small town secondary characters will pull you in right along with them.
Liam's been back from active service for six months and Riley cannot stand to be near him. Too bad his mother owns the building that houses her pharmacy and she's just tasked Liam with renovating the apartment above.
Riley isn't just the sweet friend of his sisters, she's more like an extra sister and he should probably stop thinking about her in un-sisterly ways.
This was super cute, but I was a little concerned how the second half of the book was going to play out. Our MC are together, things are going along nicely and I saw no conflict on the horizon. Thankfully Kait Nolan had a plan and there was more to the second half, opinionated locals, pharmacy disasters and a robbery! Loved Riley growing a pair and telling good ole mumsy to get a job early in the piece - Go Riley!
I like it when a Kindle freebie hits the spot. This tale of Riley and her best friend's older brother Liam was sweet where it needed to be and the small town secondary characters will pull you in right along with them.
Liam's been back from active service for six months and Riley cannot stand to be near him. Too bad his mother owns the building that houses her pharmacy and she's just tasked Liam with renovating the apartment above.
Riley isn't just the sweet friend of his sisters, she's more like an extra sister and he should probably stop thinking about her in un-sisterly ways.
This was super cute, but I was a little concerned how the second half of the book was going to play out. Our MC are together, things are going along nicely and I saw no conflict on the horizon. Thankfully Kait Nolan had a plan and there was more to the second half, opinionated locals, pharmacy disasters and a robbery! Loved Riley growing a pair and telling good ole mumsy to get a job early in the piece - Go Riley!
June 29, 2020
Former Marine Staff Sergeant Liam Montgomery has finally returned home and Riley, his little sister's best friend is hoping that now he will see her as more of a mature woman than a bratty kid. However before things can move forward, there is a little issue that happened in the past that will have to be addressed. A lot can happen in fifteen years one of which is the walls that Riley has been slowly putting up to protect herself. After having to be the parent over her mom and herself, Riley is hard pressed to allow any one to help her until one day she reaches her breaking point. Can Riley and Liam find their way to a HEA? The most of the town of Wishful wants to help their relationship happen. Can Riley come to realize that asking for help once in a while doesn't mean that you are weak? Can Riley finally let go of some of the worry she has carried around and start enjoying life again? Come back to Wishful and see what everyone has been doing. Enjoy the community spirit and stay for awhile you won't be disappointed.
December 28, 2016
There are no words for how this book will make you feel! Playing with my own emotions since I am like Riley and try to pack most of everything on myself instead of being worried about others. This book makes me stop and notice how much I actually need my S.O! It is by far one of the best reads! The only thing I don't like about this series is it's swaps focus to others in the next book and also the first two books ( i did not read those book) , you would not have to read books one and two in this series to follow along with book three. It's one of the down falls i don't like when reading a series. I would love to read a series about how these two grow with each other and reach towards their long term dreams. Just the kind of person I am. I also would have finished this book sooner if it were not for the holidays keeping me busy. Anyway, it's an extremely good read if you like a love story!
August 19, 2018
This is book 3 of the Wishful series. In typical Kait Nolan fashion her characters come to life and become part of your set of friends, the ones you want to hang out with on a lazy afternoon or when you need someone to have your back. Know Me Well isn’t a second chance story although it feels sort of like it. Nope, Liam is the BFF’s oldest brother turned protector. Riley is the BFF of his little sister and just another sister for him to protect. Things got awkward when Liam joined the Marine Corps right after high school graduation and Riley slipped a note into his duffel bag just before he left. It’s now twelve years later and the elephant in the room still hasn’t been addressed and Liam isn’t seeing her as another sister….
Know Me Well is a fun, quick, quirky romance from a true Southern small town where everybody knows your business. If you’re looking for some light reading with Southern charm this will satisfy your craving.
Know Me Well is a fun, quick, quirky romance from a true Southern small town where everybody knows your business. If you’re looking for some light reading with Southern charm this will satisfy your craving.
June 10, 2022
Riley is the owner of the local pharmacy who is struggling to keep her head above water. Ever since her childhood, she has had to take care of her mother, so "Miss Independent" has much difficulty accepting help from others. Liam, now out of the Marines, is home for good and trying to figure out his future as a civilian. Trials and tribulations plague Riley throughout this story and Liam, ever protective, proves over and over how much he cares for her, but he never knew she had been "crushing" on him since she was fifteen years old! And proud woman that she is today, she becomes overwhelmed with his help. But the good people of Wishful rally around them both.
I think Kait's books are just right for me. They're full of charm, southern hospitality, community love and friendship, and just the right amount of spice. Paired with Amy McFadden's stellar narrating, this is one dynamic duo who I wholeheartedly recommend! What are you waiting for? 😉
I think Kait's books are just right for me. They're full of charm, southern hospitality, community love and friendship, and just the right amount of spice. Paired with Amy McFadden's stellar narrating, this is one dynamic duo who I wholeheartedly recommend! What are you waiting for? 😉
October 29, 2019
Know Me Well is the first book I've read by this author, but it won't be the last. I've been gorging on a fair amount of thrillers lately and needed a reprieve from edge-of-your-seat suspense. This was the perfect antidote.
I could picture the town and its people. The characters, especially our two protagonists, are funny, well-rounded, and real. It's like I know these people.
A good balance of tension kept me turning pages. Even after Riley and Liam got together, existing issues exacerbated good intentions and pulled me through the story. The sex scene was just right and just enough.
The only thing missing would have been a nice comeuppance of Riley's nasty nemesis. Maybe in a future book (or maybe there is one I haven't read yet in another Wishful installment). Now I'm looking forward to Autumn and Judd's story.
I could picture the town and its people. The characters, especially our two protagonists, are funny, well-rounded, and real. It's like I know these people.
A good balance of tension kept me turning pages. Even after Riley and Liam got together, existing issues exacerbated good intentions and pulled me through the story. The sex scene was just right and just enough.
The only thing missing would have been a nice comeuppance of Riley's nasty nemesis. Maybe in a future book (or maybe there is one I haven't read yet in another Wishful installment). Now I'm looking forward to Autumn and Judd's story.
February 17, 2017
Y'ALL. I adore this series. Maybe it's because I'm a Mississippi girl but I can't get enough! Classic best friend's older brother unrequited love story, though the best friend was totally absent (which made NO sense to me- sure she lives in NOLA but she could've been a phone best friend!). I read book 1 in this series also and was surprised to see the main characters from that book do not majorly overlap here. I think we saw Cam once. Not your typical model, and I can't say that I loved that (definitely not scrambling for the next book in the series because I don't even recognize the names of the characters in it- it's been a while since book 1, though). Other than those small things, I loved it. Definitely worth a read!
January 21, 2017
Ok
This was sappy, and boring in parts, and had some typos... But it also had some sweet moments. Premarital sex is not a part of my happily ever after, so seeing others do it (even fictional characters) makes me a bit sad. But; because it is something I will never experience, I have started reading these romances in hopes to better understand those with different life choices and experiencs than I have had. The plot was fine. I did find that I could connect to the main POV in some parts, but wasn't drawn onto the story. I almost quit at 50% and then again around 60%. But the end was where I decided to add the 2nd star.
This was sappy, and boring in parts, and had some typos... But it also had some sweet moments. Premarital sex is not a part of my happily ever after, so seeing others do it (even fictional characters) makes me a bit sad. But; because it is something I will never experience, I have started reading these romances in hopes to better understand those with different life choices and experiencs than I have had. The plot was fine. I did find that I could connect to the main POV in some parts, but wasn't drawn onto the story. I almost quit at 50% and then again around 60%. But the end was where I decided to add the 2nd star.
February 26, 2019
Another sweet romance set in Wishful and giving us more of the wonderful characters of the town. Riley is stubborn and fiercely independent and has had a crush on her best friends brother since she was a teenager. Liam has a hero complex and sees it as his role to protect his family and that includes Riley but he has to admit that since he has been home he doesn't entirely see Riley in the same light he did before he enlisted. I think the best line of the book is "Because if you lick it, that makes it yours."so funny. There is of course family drama and community events to keep the story going and I look forward to more stories from Wishful.
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