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Lovingly Restored
Ashlyn
My contract didn't say anything about an extra roommate. Especially a scorching hot carpenter who can’t stick to the chore chart. It seems like we're both here for good, and I'm determined to keep things professional. He had his chance...and he never called.
Isaac
There's a nurse in my grandma's kitchen. Only, she's the same gorgeous yet infuriating woman I ghosted last month. I didn't call her, but I really should have.
Isaac Lauri and Ashlyn Carter have met once before, but now they're unlikely roommates in a hundred-year-old house with an adorable octogenarian. Is sheer willpower and a thin bedroom wall enough to keep their emotions at bay?
Lovingly Restored is a steamy, forced-proximity romance set in the fictional small town of West Isle, Canada.
My contract didn't say anything about an extra roommate. Especially a scorching hot carpenter who can’t stick to the chore chart. It seems like we're both here for good, and I'm determined to keep things professional. He had his chance...and he never called.
Isaac
There's a nurse in my grandma's kitchen. Only, she's the same gorgeous yet infuriating woman I ghosted last month. I didn't call her, but I really should have.
Isaac Lauri and Ashlyn Carter have met once before, but now they're unlikely roommates in a hundred-year-old house with an adorable octogenarian. Is sheer willpower and a thin bedroom wall enough to keep their emotions at bay?
Lovingly Restored is a steamy, forced-proximity romance set in the fictional small town of West Isle, Canada.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 3, 2023
21 people are currently reading
773 people want to read
About the author
Kelsey Woods
6 books80 followersKelsey Woods is the author of debut novel, Lovingly Restored. She wrote her first book on a typewriter at five years old. While ‘Sugar The Adventurous Hummingbird’ was lovely, she now prefers using her Microsoft Surface to bring you spicy contemporary romance.
Kelsey can be found attached at the hip to her emotional support Kindle or in recreation centre workout classes with women in their seventies.
Mother of two daughters and police wife, she lives on beautiful Vancouver Island and will brag about her proximity to the Pacific Ocean at every opportunity.
Kelsey can be found attached at the hip to her emotional support Kindle or in recreation centre workout classes with women in their seventies.
Mother of two daughters and police wife, she lives on beautiful Vancouver Island and will brag about her proximity to the Pacific Ocean at every opportunity.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
July 18, 2023
My immediate reaction to this book was “Wow!” I just loved it so much!
I was fortunate enough to be selected as an ARC reader for Lovingly Restored, a novel by debut author Kelsey Woods.
Kelsey paints a perfect picture of her self created small town of West Isle, Canada. While we’re in West Isle we meet Isaac Lauri, who moves back into his 100 year old childhood home, where his Grandmother resides. A house described so well you feel as though you’re there. Enter Ashlynn, Issac’s Grandmother’s new live in nurse his father had hired unbeknownst to him. You’ll have to read the book, to find out the rest!
This book had me hooked immediately! It had everything you would want in a romance and then some. It has some incredibly relatable moments, a beautiful dynamic between Grandmother and Grandson. Some very romantic and spicy moments and some heartfelt feelings.
The character growth in the FMC was very noticeable, in a positive way. She started out very set in her ways. I may have yelled at her in my head a few times. But she came around and let go of a bit of control.
Easily a 5 star read! I can’t wait for it to come out so I can see all the amazing reviews, and buy myself the paperback. August 3rd!
September 22, 2023
So much cuter than I expected!! I was expecting some alpha male type thing but instead I got a funny and hot carpenter and a cute and fucking hilarious nurse/plant lover 🔥
July 19, 2023
I feel like I could actually picture West Isle, Canada where our MMC Isaac moved back to his grandmother’s. Add in her love in nurse, Ashlynn and oooh snap. Their relationship read so organically and was not rushed at all, just the overall growth of each character (including the side characters) throughout the book was beautifully written.
I received this ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily, all thoughts/opinions above are my own.
I received this ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily, all thoughts/opinions above are my own.
August 3, 2023
Stunning debut! Lovingly Restored is everything you want in a small town romance. Endearing characters, hilarious banter, and plenty of steam!
The characters are well developed and the story is paced perfectly.
I love how Isaac and Ashlyn’s relationship develops gradually over the book. Nothing feels rushed or forced. The tension and attraction builds naturally.
There are great side characters. I especially loved the relationships between Isaac and his friends.
I laughed and cried. Very excited for what comes next in this series!
The characters are well developed and the story is paced perfectly.
I love how Isaac and Ashlyn’s relationship develops gradually over the book. Nothing feels rushed or forced. The tension and attraction builds naturally.
There are great side characters. I especially loved the relationships between Isaac and his friends.
I laughed and cried. Very excited for what comes next in this series!
September 6, 2023
I wanted to like this so much more than I did tbh
September 14, 2023
This book should have been called “the boring relationship of a drama queen and a pushover”
I’m sorry, but this has to be the most boring book I’ve read in a while. It’s like reading a bad sitcom on paper.
The MMC is the biggest pushover ever. Honestly, grow some balls dude. His dad is not walking all over him, no, he’s driving a big ass tractor all over this guy.
The FMC is such a drama queen and gives up so easily. Something happens and she is already out the door leaving him behind over something they could have actually discussed.
Nor the characters nor the storyline have anything going for themselves. There isn’t much of a storyline to begin with. Genuinely, I can’t even say anything because nothing happens. At least, nothing interesting. There isn’t even a lick of passion between the characters. They have the chemistry of two dead fish. The guy had more chemistry with his cedar wood than her.
P.s. what grown man in his thirties talks like a teenage bitchy girl… disgusting
The ending was all kinds of bad. Like I mentioned before she gave up so fast after the first little bump in their relationship. Communication isn’t something these people practice apparently.
I’m telling you, these two wouldn’t last a week in the real world.
I’m sorry, but this has to be the most boring book I’ve read in a while. It’s like reading a bad sitcom on paper.
The MMC is the biggest pushover ever. Honestly, grow some balls dude. His dad is not walking all over him, no, he’s driving a big ass tractor all over this guy.
The FMC is such a drama queen and gives up so easily. Something happens and she is already out the door leaving him behind over something they could have actually discussed.
Nor the characters nor the storyline have anything going for themselves. There isn’t much of a storyline to begin with. Genuinely, I can’t even say anything because nothing happens. At least, nothing interesting. There isn’t even a lick of passion between the characters. They have the chemistry of two dead fish. The guy had more chemistry with his cedar wood than her.
P.s. what grown man in his thirties talks like a teenage bitchy girl… disgusting
The ending was all kinds of bad. Like I mentioned before she gave up so fast after the first little bump in their relationship. Communication isn’t something these people practice apparently.
I’m telling you, these two wouldn’t last a week in the real world.
July 24, 2023
I received this book as an arc so i went into it knowing nothing but i absolutely loved every second of it! this review will contain spoilers and opinions that are my own!
i loved the first meet, the rain, the car. and isaac’s reaction when she walks up to him and begins berating him.
some moments that i found so cute and made me kick my feet giggling were the shower scene when he’s muttering about the plants, when he goes to pick her up when shes drunka nd she opens up the glove compartment and theres a granola bar 🥹. when he fixed the fireplace because he overheard her taking about sitting by a real fire and when they get to the cabin and he runs out because of what turns out to be a tiny mouse.
i truly loved the make up, how he knew the show her and mummo watched and wanted to make the garden into somethinf beautiful for her! then when she startw to guide him into the workshop, chris berg and dean all in there 😂
the growth within the fmc was noticeable in a positive way, she began to let go as she realised that she didnt need to be in control all of the time. i could easily see how isaac let his guard down whilst also breaking down Ashlyn’s walls.
it was a beautifully perfect ending, ‘i known ive done it perfectly’
i wouldve loved an epilogue of maybe a year into the future and how everything has progressed but even without it i loved the ending!
easy 5 stars and i cant wait for the physical copy to come out so i can go and buy that aswell to have it on my shelf!
i loved the first meet, the rain, the car. and isaac’s reaction when she walks up to him and begins berating him.
some moments that i found so cute and made me kick my feet giggling were the shower scene when he’s muttering about the plants, when he goes to pick her up when shes drunka nd she opens up the glove compartment and theres a granola bar 🥹. when he fixed the fireplace because he overheard her taking about sitting by a real fire and when they get to the cabin and he runs out because of what turns out to be a tiny mouse.
i truly loved the make up, how he knew the show her and mummo watched and wanted to make the garden into somethinf beautiful for her! then when she startw to guide him into the workshop, chris berg and dean all in there 😂
the growth within the fmc was noticeable in a positive way, she began to let go as she realised that she didnt need to be in control all of the time. i could easily see how isaac let his guard down whilst also breaking down Ashlyn’s walls.
it was a beautifully perfect ending, ‘i known ive done it perfectly’
i wouldve loved an epilogue of maybe a year into the future and how everything has progressed but even without it i loved the ending!
easy 5 stars and i cant wait for the physical copy to come out so i can go and buy that aswell to have it on my shelf!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2023
I was giving an ARC of this in return for an honest review.
Who do we want? Isaac!
When do we want him? Now!
I think I have a new book boyfriend.
Steamy. Forced proximity. Small town romance
Ashlyn and Isaac meet once and instead of calling her Isaac ghosts her. They don't expect to end up living in the same house together. Ashlyn is determined to keep things professional as she is working as a nurse there.
The sexual tension between Ashlyn and Isaac was so intense I had to remind myself I wasn't actually there and part of it 😅
I like how there was enough of background story/involvement from others like his Dad that let you get a full picture of who Isaac is... but not enough for any of it to overshadow the rest of the story.
Momma is just adorable as is the relationship and devotion Isaac has to her. She was a brilliant side character that helped show off and develop the main characters.
I love Isaac and Ashlyn - they are so cute together. I also loved how they both had the things they were so passionate about I.e. plants and carpentry.
I could read tons more about them without ever getting bored.
Bookstagram @krbooks13
Who do we want? Isaac!
When do we want him? Now!
I think I have a new book boyfriend.
Steamy. Forced proximity. Small town romance
Ashlyn and Isaac meet once and instead of calling her Isaac ghosts her. They don't expect to end up living in the same house together. Ashlyn is determined to keep things professional as she is working as a nurse there.
The sexual tension between Ashlyn and Isaac was so intense I had to remind myself I wasn't actually there and part of it 😅
I like how there was enough of background story/involvement from others like his Dad that let you get a full picture of who Isaac is... but not enough for any of it to overshadow the rest of the story.
Momma is just adorable as is the relationship and devotion Isaac has to her. She was a brilliant side character that helped show off and develop the main characters.
I love Isaac and Ashlyn - they are so cute together. I also loved how they both had the things they were so passionate about I.e. plants and carpentry.
I could read tons more about them without ever getting bored.
Bookstagram @krbooks13
August 9, 2023
Well I thought I had stopped liking romance novels. A lot of the things I've been trying to read in this genre I've just had to put down again and move on, which has frustrated me to no end.
Lovingly Restored has shown me that I'm just picking the wrong novels, and eventually I'll find one that I'll love. This book has all the things I like in romance, plus a bunch of new things I didn't even know I liked until I came across them.
I really cared about the characters, including the most wonderful "third wheel" I think I've ever come across. I even had to put it down because of , which was kinda good because I needed to cook dinner.
I kept reading during dinner, which
The antagonist was well written and wasn't just bad person is bad; rather they had reasons for what they were doing, even if I vehemently disagreed with them out loud over my spaghetti.
I was going to read this over the weekend at a leisurely pace on my holiday. Now I need to find something else because it's Wednesday and it's over; too soon. Luckily, it clearly states "Book 1"!
Lovingly Restored has shown me that I'm just picking the wrong novels, and eventually I'll find one that I'll love. This book has all the things I like in romance, plus a bunch of new things I didn't even know I liked until I came across them.
I really cared about the characters, including the most wonderful "third wheel" I think I've ever come across. I even had to put it down because of , which was kinda good because I needed to cook dinner.
I kept reading during dinner, which
The antagonist was well written and wasn't just bad person is bad; rather they had reasons for what they were doing, even if I vehemently disagreed with them out loud over my spaghetti.
I was going to read this over the weekend at a leisurely pace on my holiday. Now I need to find something else because it's Wednesday and it's over; too soon. Luckily, it clearly states "Book 1"!
July 20, 2023
Ashlyn and Issac, these two talk about love at a pace and ramp up this shizz... If you want a relaxed ,sweet, precious read then this book is for you. The way this book is written you have a smile throughout while reading it. I so bloody did. It's so refreshing to read a story with backgrounds where you can relate to. The ease this story has been told just warms your heart .
The friends of the Ashlyn and Issac are a fun bunch. Given it's only one friend of Ashlyn . They are wonderful.
Gimme all the restoring, carpentry work and gardening.
I'm in my own romance novel.
This book baby of Kelsey's book was a perfect read for me today. Can't wait to see what else she churns out.
The friends of the Ashlyn and Issac are a fun bunch. Given it's only one friend of Ashlyn . They are wonderful.
Gimme all the restoring, carpentry work and gardening.
I'm in my own romance novel.
This book baby of Kelsey's book was a perfect read for me today. Can't wait to see what else she churns out.
August 21, 2023
A really sweet debut by author Kelsey Woods. Characters were well-drawn and the town was richly imagined. I’d like my own Mummo!!
September 18, 2023
3.5 stars! This was cute. Although the guy was a bit of an asshat in the beginning he got better. I liked the dual pov
September 9, 2023
if i’m being honest, i forced myself to finish this.
May 3, 2024
This was such a sweet and fun read! I laughed, I cried, and I easily fell in love with these characters and their banter.
July 30, 2023
Lovingly Restored is such a fun read, read it over three days (very quick for me!) Somehow managing to be super sweet and smoking hot at the same time, the story follows two equally flawed but loveable characters, Isaac and Ashlyn, as they fumble towards falling in love and figuring out what that looks like for them, while shedding the expectations put on them by either toxic people in thwir life, or their own self-destructive perfectionism. I identified so much with Ashlyn when it came to being type A and controlling about structure, to see her break down the boundaries she set for herself and how isaac treated her with such respect and patience, had tears in my eyes. Add in Issacs sweet and sassy Mummo (Finnish grandma) and i was a total goner. The author managed to pack a lot of character depth and growth into this book, and for a debut author, I was pleasantly surprised by the balance of setting descriptjon and deep pov sensory elements that let the reader know just how the characters feel about themselves and their environment in every scene. One flaw that I see a lot in debut steamy romance, is writing steamy scenes or even the stages of intimacy, in ways that don't actually reflect the internal motivation and/or internal need of the character. Kelsey Woods manages to pull this off seamlessly and I am so excited to be able to share this debut knowing Kelsey will have a long career ahead of her. Thank you for giving me this ARC to read in advance of publication in exchange for my non biased honest review. I cannot wait to see where West Isle takes us next
Tropes:
Forced proximity
Golden retriever energy
Root vegetables
Happy Gilmore vibes
TW:
Alzheimers and grief
Dad is a total fucking twat waffle
Tropes:
Forced proximity
Golden retriever energy
Root vegetables
Happy Gilmore vibes
TW:
Alzheimers and grief
Dad is a total fucking twat waffle
July 26, 2023
Very cute!
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book.
This book was just what I needed, a sweet little romance with cutie characters that I felt interested in and enjoyed reading about! We love to see some good chemistry between characters and a well written romance, add in a fair amount of spice and I'm sold.
I loved that the female lead was a nurse, and really enjoyed her relationship with her elderly patient 'Mummo'. It was a nice dynamic between the two main characters and the elderly woman that links them.
I'm excited to see what comes next from Kelsey. She's made it on to my list of authors I love.
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book.
This book was just what I needed, a sweet little romance with cutie characters that I felt interested in and enjoyed reading about! We love to see some good chemistry between characters and a well written romance, add in a fair amount of spice and I'm sold.
I loved that the female lead was a nurse, and really enjoyed her relationship with her elderly patient 'Mummo'. It was a nice dynamic between the two main characters and the elderly woman that links them.
I'm excited to see what comes next from Kelsey. She's made it on to my list of authors I love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 28, 2023
The story starts out with Ashlyn stuck on the side of the road as a stranger pulls over to help. Isaac, having had one of the worst days ever, almost hits her car. He gets out to help, and she yells at him for almost hitting her. Their meet-cute was a little rocky, but it only adds to the hot tension that builds between them later.
Ashlyn is a nurse, but she longs to work with gardens, growing her own plants and selling them. Her plan is to save up her money so she can change careers and do what she loves. She takes the well-paying job in the charming but neglected home as a live-in nurse, unaware of the fact that her patient is Isaac's grandmother.
Isaac is a down on his luck carpenter that loves to take old things and bring them back to life through loving restoration. His father is determined to tear down his grandmother’s home, but he won’t have it. Isaac moves into the home to help restore the house and work in his grandfather’s beloved garage on his own personal projects. When he realizes Ashlyn is his grandmother’s live-in nurse, he kicks himself for never calling her.
Over the course of the next few weeks, they irritate each other and get to know each other as their attraction to each other becomes undeniable. They shy away from their attraction for fear of affecting Mummo (Isaac's grandmother). They don’t want to do anything that will affect her care and get Ashlyn fired. The slow buildup of heat is delicious. When they finally come together, the result is explosive!
Outside of the love story between the main characters, I love the relationship between Mummo and Isaac. It’s clear that he loves her but feels out of his depth when she has her episodes, and that’s where Ashlyn steps in. One of Ashlyn’s biggest problems with being a nurse has always been how attached she becomes to her patients, and this time is no different. Mummo starts feeling more like family and less like a patient as they bond over all things gardening and Isaac.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and all the characters and relationships in it. The ending with Isaac's grand gesture is perfect. If you like small town romances with forced proximity, I think you will love this book!
I received this ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ashlyn is a nurse, but she longs to work with gardens, growing her own plants and selling them. Her plan is to save up her money so she can change careers and do what she loves. She takes the well-paying job in the charming but neglected home as a live-in nurse, unaware of the fact that her patient is Isaac's grandmother.
Isaac is a down on his luck carpenter that loves to take old things and bring them back to life through loving restoration. His father is determined to tear down his grandmother’s home, but he won’t have it. Isaac moves into the home to help restore the house and work in his grandfather’s beloved garage on his own personal projects. When he realizes Ashlyn is his grandmother’s live-in nurse, he kicks himself for never calling her.
Over the course of the next few weeks, they irritate each other and get to know each other as their attraction to each other becomes undeniable. They shy away from their attraction for fear of affecting Mummo (Isaac's grandmother). They don’t want to do anything that will affect her care and get Ashlyn fired. The slow buildup of heat is delicious. When they finally come together, the result is explosive!
Outside of the love story between the main characters, I love the relationship between Mummo and Isaac. It’s clear that he loves her but feels out of his depth when she has her episodes, and that’s where Ashlyn steps in. One of Ashlyn’s biggest problems with being a nurse has always been how attached she becomes to her patients, and this time is no different. Mummo starts feeling more like family and less like a patient as they bond over all things gardening and Isaac.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and all the characters and relationships in it. The ending with Isaac's grand gesture is perfect. If you like small town romances with forced proximity, I think you will love this book!
I received this ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 11, 2023
This book started out really promising. I decided to get it on KU when I saw a post about it on Instagram, but social media pickups usually tend to fail, and this is no exception in my eyes. I was really hoping this would be more plot heavy, and it was set up to be that way, but once they started they couldn’t stop. And those scenes were very awkward and stunted to me. It seemed really idealistic and fake and fast, so I couldn’t even enjoy it although I’m not a hater of spicy books.
I also think the timeline was hard to follow. There were little notes here or there about the weather, but the actual story read like it was only over about a month’s time when it was really more like at least half a year?
Again, with the plot, I didn’t get any of the information that I wanted. I wanted to know more about the restoration company, the gardening, the nursing, the dad, even the stupid car. It just felt like all these little things that should be big things started for them just to fall through and not even matter, and because the plot fell short, I couldn’t even really get attached to the characters.
The biggest turn off for me in the book is that he kisses him grandma on the cheek immediately after going down on her, like IMMEDIATELY. That was just so gross to me. Like, there’s a whole saying, “I don’t know where your mouths been,” and this made me realize that I really don’t know what people do before interacting with other people.
Honestly, the social media promotion was so good for this book that I read the whole thing to get to that part, just to realize it was at the very end, and at that point I couldn’t be bothered to finish the last few paragraphs when it was just going to be more meaningless sex.
Sorry, but this was a ⭐️⭐️ book for me. I can see how other people would like it, but after reading so many romance novels, this was just a major let down. There was also a bunch of editing mistakes, but that was the least of the problems.
I also think the timeline was hard to follow. There were little notes here or there about the weather, but the actual story read like it was only over about a month’s time when it was really more like at least half a year?
Again, with the plot, I didn’t get any of the information that I wanted. I wanted to know more about the restoration company, the gardening, the nursing, the dad, even the stupid car. It just felt like all these little things that should be big things started for them just to fall through and not even matter, and because the plot fell short, I couldn’t even really get attached to the characters.
The biggest turn off for me in the book is that he kisses him grandma on the cheek immediately after going down on her, like IMMEDIATELY. That was just so gross to me. Like, there’s a whole saying, “I don’t know where your mouths been,” and this made me realize that I really don’t know what people do before interacting with other people.
Honestly, the social media promotion was so good for this book that I read the whole thing to get to that part, just to realize it was at the very end, and at that point I couldn’t be bothered to finish the last few paragraphs when it was just going to be more meaningless sex.
Sorry, but this was a ⭐️⭐️ book for me. I can see how other people would like it, but after reading so many romance novels, this was just a major let down. There was also a bunch of editing mistakes, but that was the least of the problems.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2023
ARC review
•Forced proximity
•Dirty talking cinnamon roll
•Plant loving nurse
•Dual POV
•Small town
•Steamy open door scenes
Isaac Lauri and Ashlyn Carter have met once before, but now they're unlikely roommates in a hundred-year-old house with an adorable octogenarian. Is sheer willpower and a thin bedroom wall enough to keep their emotions at bay?
Lovingly Restored is a steamy, forced-proximity romance set in the fictional small town of West Isle, Canada. This is Kelsey Woods debut novel.
There is so much I could write about this book but I don’t want my review to be a summary of the story, you have a blurb for that! I also don’t want to include any spoilers.
The story I thought was great, from the first meet, to the awkward second meet. It’s written in dual POV which I really enjoy and prefer when reading a couples story.
The back and forth dialogue between Isaac and Ashlynn was perfect. The story flowed and progressed naturally, the spicy scenes were amazing and written so well. It was just the right balance of everything. I definitely didn’t get any cringe worthy vibes from the steamy scenes 😂 Let’s just say everyone will want a walk in pantry after they read this!
There was definitely tension building between Isaac and Ashlyn, sexual tension from the forced proximity. You knew it was coming not if it would happen but when?
Isaac’s sweet and thoughtful gestures when he was working on redeeming himself were so cute. I loved Isaac’s relationship with his grandma and the way he talked about his upbringing.
Ashlyn was someone I could relate to, wanting to be organised, control every aspect around her and not letting anyone get behind the walls she had up.
•Forced proximity
•Dirty talking cinnamon roll
•Plant loving nurse
•Dual POV
•Small town
•Steamy open door scenes
Isaac Lauri and Ashlyn Carter have met once before, but now they're unlikely roommates in a hundred-year-old house with an adorable octogenarian. Is sheer willpower and a thin bedroom wall enough to keep their emotions at bay?
Lovingly Restored is a steamy, forced-proximity romance set in the fictional small town of West Isle, Canada. This is Kelsey Woods debut novel.
There is so much I could write about this book but I don’t want my review to be a summary of the story, you have a blurb for that! I also don’t want to include any spoilers.
The story I thought was great, from the first meet, to the awkward second meet. It’s written in dual POV which I really enjoy and prefer when reading a couples story.
The back and forth dialogue between Isaac and Ashlynn was perfect. The story flowed and progressed naturally, the spicy scenes were amazing and written so well. It was just the right balance of everything. I definitely didn’t get any cringe worthy vibes from the steamy scenes 😂 Let’s just say everyone will want a walk in pantry after they read this!
There was definitely tension building between Isaac and Ashlyn, sexual tension from the forced proximity. You knew it was coming not if it would happen but when?
Isaac’s sweet and thoughtful gestures when he was working on redeeming himself were so cute. I loved Isaac’s relationship with his grandma and the way he talked about his upbringing.
Ashlyn was someone I could relate to, wanting to be organised, control every aspect around her and not letting anyone get behind the walls she had up.
October 20, 2023
This book, like Isaac, is a keeper. A man who will follow his own path because it is the right thing and who inspires others along the way! An all round great guy that, even when having the worst day, can still stop along the side of the road and help out a stranded woman with humor and grace. Then surprise her and the car towed without looking for anything in return. That's the kind of opening gambit that makes me want to pick up a book and read further.
Ashlyn and Isaac are facing all the uphill battles that we do, and that made this book and all the characters real for me. This is not a book of Billionaires in fancy suits and corner offices or people who are just having a bad day that leads to a meet cute. are the people th Isaac has just been fired by his dad for not being 'Bottom Line Enough' to succeed in the business world, and Ashlyn is trying to figure out how to get everything done without having to go back to school for a career that is important but not 'her'. Both have the same goal, they want to restore something of value -- for Isaac that is his Grandparent's home and for Ashlyn that's saving a garden. But both need some TLC of their own.
In a second meet cute, the pair are reunited in Issacs's Grandmother's Kitchen. It seems that Ashlyn has been hired to be a live in caregiver and surprise, Isaac has just moved back home with Grandma!
Here is where the story takes off and you will giggle, laugh, and squeal with some of their antics both inside and outside the house and bedroom!
This book has all the feels that you want and all the spice that crave! On a side note, the descriptions and visuals that Kelsey Woods writes will transport you right to beautiful small town British Columbia!
Ashlyn and Isaac are facing all the uphill battles that we do, and that made this book and all the characters real for me. This is not a book of Billionaires in fancy suits and corner offices or people who are just having a bad day that leads to a meet cute. are the people th Isaac has just been fired by his dad for not being 'Bottom Line Enough' to succeed in the business world, and Ashlyn is trying to figure out how to get everything done without having to go back to school for a career that is important but not 'her'. Both have the same goal, they want to restore something of value -- for Isaac that is his Grandparent's home and for Ashlyn that's saving a garden. But both need some TLC of their own.
In a second meet cute, the pair are reunited in Issacs's Grandmother's Kitchen. It seems that Ashlyn has been hired to be a live in caregiver and surprise, Isaac has just moved back home with Grandma!
Here is where the story takes off and you will giggle, laugh, and squeal with some of their antics both inside and outside the house and bedroom!
This book has all the feels that you want and all the spice that crave! On a side note, the descriptions and visuals that Kelsey Woods writes will transport you right to beautiful small town British Columbia!
November 14, 2023
Kelsey created the perfect picture of the small town of West Isle, Canada. We meet Isaac Lauri, who just got let go from his job at his jerk of a fathers company, and finally decides it's time to chase his dream of his own restoration company. On his way home in the downpour he finds a car broken down in the middle of the road. Enter Ashlyn, a plant loving nurse who tends to get too emotionally attached to her patients. The chemistry between them is instant and Ashlyn is so caught up in it she slips her number into Isaacs phone while he is distracted.
Moving back into his 100 year old childhood home, where his Grandmother resides, is an easy decision for Isaac. His father is determined to tear down his grandmother’s home, but he won’t have it. Isaac decides to help restore the house and work in his grandfather’s beloved garage on his own personal projects. When he realizes Ashlyn is his grandmother’s live-in nurse, he kicks himself for never calling her.
I read this novel to familiarize myself with Kelsey Woods' West Isle series ahead of the release of her upcoming book Unhurried Hearts. I was not prepared to love this story as much as I did. Ashlyn and Isaac’s story is absolutely perfect. I didn't find a single flaw in this story. Their relationship read so organically and was not rushed at all, just the overall growth of each character (including the side characters) throughout the book was beautifully written. I fell in love with Mummo just as hard as Ashlyn did. I can’t wait to read Unhurried Hearts!
Moving back into his 100 year old childhood home, where his Grandmother resides, is an easy decision for Isaac. His father is determined to tear down his grandmother’s home, but he won’t have it. Isaac decides to help restore the house and work in his grandfather’s beloved garage on his own personal projects. When he realizes Ashlyn is his grandmother’s live-in nurse, he kicks himself for never calling her.
I read this novel to familiarize myself with Kelsey Woods' West Isle series ahead of the release of her upcoming book Unhurried Hearts. I was not prepared to love this story as much as I did. Ashlyn and Isaac’s story is absolutely perfect. I didn't find a single flaw in this story. Their relationship read so organically and was not rushed at all, just the overall growth of each character (including the side characters) throughout the book was beautifully written. I fell in love with Mummo just as hard as Ashlyn did. I can’t wait to read Unhurried Hearts!
August 3, 2023
I really enjoyed getting to know Ashlyn and Isaac. A sweet story revolving around Ashlyn, a compassionate home-care nurse who dreams of the day she can become a full-time horticulturist, and Isaac, the son of the owner of a upscale construction company who dreams of a day he can focus on renovating old treasured homes instead of demolishing them for their land value.
Things heat up when Ashlyn and Isaac find themselves living under the same roof, trying to stay out of each other's way... and that always works, right? 😜
In addition to the love story that inevitably brews between Ashlyn and Isaac, one of the things I enjoyed the most was the exploration of the complexities of family dynamics and generational relationships. Isaac’s relationship with his grandmother, and the stories he tells of the love between her and her deceased husband, Isaac’s grandfather, was super sweet and adorable. I loved that “Mummo” called Isaac “Little One” the entire time and how she played a pivotal role in Isaac getting his act together in the end.
I loved that this story captures the essence of human emotions and the importance of compassion and gives you a glimpse into the effects Alzheimer's and dementia can have on those who unfortunately have to live through it.
This is book 1 of the West Isle series and I am excited to see where this series takes us! (Hopefully more from Anna and Isaac’s group of friends!). This book is out August 3! Pre-order your copy today!
Things heat up when Ashlyn and Isaac find themselves living under the same roof, trying to stay out of each other's way... and that always works, right? 😜
In addition to the love story that inevitably brews between Ashlyn and Isaac, one of the things I enjoyed the most was the exploration of the complexities of family dynamics and generational relationships. Isaac’s relationship with his grandmother, and the stories he tells of the love between her and her deceased husband, Isaac’s grandfather, was super sweet and adorable. I loved that “Mummo” called Isaac “Little One” the entire time and how she played a pivotal role in Isaac getting his act together in the end.
I loved that this story captures the essence of human emotions and the importance of compassion and gives you a glimpse into the effects Alzheimer's and dementia can have on those who unfortunately have to live through it.
This is book 1 of the West Isle series and I am excited to see where this series takes us! (Hopefully more from Anna and Isaac’s group of friends!). This book is out August 3! Pre-order your copy today!
July 28, 2023
I absolutely inhaled this book. From start to finish I NEEDED to see what would happen between Isaac and Ashlyn.
After the perfect meet cute (and I really do mean perfect - him rescuing her when she's stranded in the middle of nowhere during a storm ), SOMEONE doesn't call the other someone making their next encounter super awkward. How did these two strangers reconnect you might be wondering? Well you see, Isaac moves in with his grandmother to save money while he starts his own restoration business only to discover that Ashlyn is his grandmother's new live-in nurse. The chemistry, the innuendo and forced proximity makes feelings inevitable. And the challenge to "have the best of both worlds" doesn't go according to plan. I know! I was as shocked as you will be.
This debut novel by Kelsey Woods is not one to miss. From the character development to the spice, you'd never know this was her first published novel. The only thing that would have made it better would be another hundred chapters or so. I especially loved the side characters who I hope will be getting their own books in the not too distant future. Anna supervising Ashlyn's call at the bar (literally me with my drunk friends) to Isaac's friends in the last chapter (y'all NEED to read this!!), I could not stop laughing.
Add this to your TBR right now! You will not regret it!!
After the perfect meet cute (and I really do mean perfect - him rescuing her when she's stranded in the middle of nowhere during a storm ), SOMEONE doesn't call the other someone making their next encounter super awkward. How did these two strangers reconnect you might be wondering? Well you see, Isaac moves in with his grandmother to save money while he starts his own restoration business only to discover that Ashlyn is his grandmother's new live-in nurse. The chemistry, the innuendo and forced proximity makes feelings inevitable. And the challenge to "have the best of both worlds" doesn't go according to plan. I know! I was as shocked as you will be.
This debut novel by Kelsey Woods is not one to miss. From the character development to the spice, you'd never know this was her first published novel. The only thing that would have made it better would be another hundred chapters or so. I especially loved the side characters who I hope will be getting their own books in the not too distant future. Anna supervising Ashlyn's call at the bar (literally me with my drunk friends) to Isaac's friends in the last chapter (y'all NEED to read this!!), I could not stop laughing.
Add this to your TBR right now! You will not regret it!!
August 7, 2023
“Ashlyn coming back into my life symbolizes a restoration, an opportunity to begin anew. The chance to lovingly restore not only a home, but a relationship with a person I want forever.”
I’m always a little scared going into books from new authors and author’s I haven’t read before, but was so happy to find that Kelsey’s writing style was exactly what I like! This is her debut novel and I think it was so well written! I loved the characters and loved that the banter started immediately when they met 💗😂 I liked that both Ashlyn and Isaac had “normal” jobs (I like reading about billionaires, fashionistas, and influencers too, no worries there) but as a RN it was nice seeing the LPN representation 🫶🏼 The tension between the two of them had me on the edge of my seat the whole time, thinking “when are they going to kiss? When when when?” So it was a little of a slow burn for me… but once that fire was lit- sheeeeeew 🔥😮💨 WORTH IT!
Also wanted to mention that Mummo was the best. 3/4 of my grandparents passed when I was young so my pawpaw was my best friend growing up. I loved seeing that the bond between Isaac and his grandmother was so strong. You could tell that he loved and cared for her so so much and seeing Ashlyn fall in love with her as more than a patient was inevitable 🥲
Overall, I really enjoyed this and look forward to reading more from Kelsey in the future! 💗☺️
I’m always a little scared going into books from new authors and author’s I haven’t read before, but was so happy to find that Kelsey’s writing style was exactly what I like! This is her debut novel and I think it was so well written! I loved the characters and loved that the banter started immediately when they met 💗😂 I liked that both Ashlyn and Isaac had “normal” jobs (I like reading about billionaires, fashionistas, and influencers too, no worries there) but as a RN it was nice seeing the LPN representation 🫶🏼 The tension between the two of them had me on the edge of my seat the whole time, thinking “when are they going to kiss? When when when?” So it was a little of a slow burn for me… but once that fire was lit- sheeeeeew 🔥😮💨 WORTH IT!
Also wanted to mention that Mummo was the best. 3/4 of my grandparents passed when I was young so my pawpaw was my best friend growing up. I loved seeing that the bond between Isaac and his grandmother was so strong. You could tell that he loved and cared for her so so much and seeing Ashlyn fall in love with her as more than a patient was inevitable 🥲
Overall, I really enjoyed this and look forward to reading more from Kelsey in the future! 💗☺️
March 25, 2024
I really enjoyed this smutty romance and on finishing it I realise it is a debut novel by this author and for a first book it really damn good.
Ashlyn and Issac are both great characters and of course the wonderful Mummo. I particularly liked that Ashlyn was strong and feisty and put Issac in his place when his slightly jealous/overly protective side tried to come out such as when he tried to say she couldn't garden in a bikini. She was very clear she would wear what she liked and he accepted that and grew from it.
The plot is lovely, the romance sweet and believable and the sex is bloody hot and steamy. Hurrah for normalising mutual masturbation and loving giving a BJ as well as satisfying sex that does not include PIV.
My main criticism is that the end feels a little bit rushed and it all wraps up very quickly. I feel like they would have talked through more what happened and also Isaac's horrible Father and agreed on what a future might look like for them but I know that endings are hard but I think this author definitely has the talent to develop her writing and I look forward to reading more by her
Ashlyn and Issac are both great characters and of course the wonderful Mummo. I particularly liked that Ashlyn was strong and feisty and put Issac in his place when his slightly jealous/overly protective side tried to come out such as when he tried to say she couldn't garden in a bikini. She was very clear she would wear what she liked and he accepted that and grew from it.
The plot is lovely, the romance sweet and believable and the sex is bloody hot and steamy. Hurrah for normalising mutual masturbation and loving giving a BJ as well as satisfying sex that does not include PIV.
My main criticism is that the end feels a little bit rushed and it all wraps up very quickly. I feel like they would have talked through more what happened and also Isaac's horrible Father and agreed on what a future might look like for them but I know that endings are hard but I think this author definitely has the talent to develop her writing and I look forward to reading more by her
August 2, 2023
Have you ever read a new to you author and thought "wow, why have I never read anything from them before?!? This is great!"? Well that was this book for me. Then imagine my surprise when I read the About the Author section and this book is Kelsey's debut novel! I feel like I got in on the ground floor of what is likely to be a mega-hit. Like one day I'll be able to say "yeah, well I was reading her books before she was even famous". This book was seriously that good.
This book is about a girl. Girl has car trouble. Boy saves the day. Girl gives him her number and he never calls. Girl gets new job. Girl goes to new job. Boy shows up and ends up moving in. Awkward moments. Steam. Tension. Blushing. Spice in the pantry. Hurtfull words. Hurt feelings. Happily ever after. This book was fun and sweet and hot and such an enjoyable ride! The characters were well thought out and felt so real and this story is something I could see happening in real life. I loved it!
This book is about a girl. Girl has car trouble. Boy saves the day. Girl gives him her number and he never calls. Girl gets new job. Girl goes to new job. Boy shows up and ends up moving in. Awkward moments. Steam. Tension. Blushing. Spice in the pantry. Hurtfull words. Hurt feelings. Happily ever after. This book was fun and sweet and hot and such an enjoyable ride! The characters were well thought out and felt so real and this story is something I could see happening in real life. I loved it!
July 26, 2023
ARC REVIEW!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Tropes:
🔨: Forced Proximity
🩺: Type A Nurse
🔨: Grumpy Carpenter
🩺: Steamy Cabin Getaway
🔨: Workbench used Creatively
🩺: Hanky Panky in a Pantry
BLURB:
Ashlyn
My contract didn't say anything about an extra roommate. It seems like we're both here for good, and I'm determined to keep things professional. He had his chance...and he never called.
Isaac
There's a nurse in my grandma's kitchen. Only, she's the same woman I ghosted last month. I didn't call her, but I really should have.
Isaac Lauri and Ashlyn Carter have met once before, but now they're unlikely roommates in a hundred-year-old house with an adorable octogenarian. Is sheer willpower and a thin bedroom wall enough to keep their emotions at bay?
First off I want to thank @kelseywoodswrites for giving me the ARC to this book! Any book that has a grumpy man but is cute with her grabs my attention immediately and I fall in love with it, this book did exactly that!! I could not put this book down!! The slow burn chemistry and banter between Isaac and Ashlyn had me enamored!! I truly fell in love with them but wanted to pull out my hair at their stubbornness because they truly are meant to be together. I adored Isaac’s grandma and the relationship that they had, as well as the relationship she built with Ashlyn!! Isaac’s father really pissed me off though 😂 The spice was there too which I loved! Isaac was described as a grump but his two girls melted his heart (Mummo and Ashlyn). I loved this book so much! Cannot wait for Chris and Anna’s Story!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Tropes:
🔨: Forced Proximity
🩺: Type A Nurse
🔨: Grumpy Carpenter
🩺: Steamy Cabin Getaway
🔨: Workbench used Creatively
🩺: Hanky Panky in a Pantry
BLURB:
Ashlyn
My contract didn't say anything about an extra roommate. It seems like we're both here for good, and I'm determined to keep things professional. He had his chance...and he never called.
Isaac
There's a nurse in my grandma's kitchen. Only, she's the same woman I ghosted last month. I didn't call her, but I really should have.
Isaac Lauri and Ashlyn Carter have met once before, but now they're unlikely roommates in a hundred-year-old house with an adorable octogenarian. Is sheer willpower and a thin bedroom wall enough to keep their emotions at bay?
First off I want to thank @kelseywoodswrites for giving me the ARC to this book! Any book that has a grumpy man but is cute with her grabs my attention immediately and I fall in love with it, this book did exactly that!! I could not put this book down!! The slow burn chemistry and banter between Isaac and Ashlyn had me enamored!! I truly fell in love with them but wanted to pull out my hair at their stubbornness because they truly are meant to be together. I adored Isaac’s grandma and the relationship that they had, as well as the relationship she built with Ashlyn!! Isaac’s father really pissed me off though 😂 The spice was there too which I loved! Isaac was described as a grump but his two girls melted his heart (Mummo and Ashlyn). I loved this book so much! Cannot wait for Chris and Anna’s Story!!!
July 28, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Oh my goodness. What an adorable but steamy read. First and foremost, Kelsey Woods really pulled at my heart strings by writing Mummo’s character and I just loved her. This book was so beautifully hopeful and sweet.
We love a man who is good with his hands….and by hands I mean the restoration and carpentry. 😉 Isaac is the type of handy man every woman wants especially a woman who loves her plants. He used his actions to prove how much he cared for Ashlyn and I adored that.
Ashlyn’s type A personality with her structure and organization were exactly like me. It was nice to feel like the FMC was so relatable. I loved her passion for gardening and the way she treated Mummo. We worship a wonderful nurse. ♥️
This book had great banter and some great spicy moments! I thoroughly enjoyed the book and really look forward to reading more from Kelsey Woods! Thank you Kelsey for this ARC!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Oh my goodness. What an adorable but steamy read. First and foremost, Kelsey Woods really pulled at my heart strings by writing Mummo’s character and I just loved her. This book was so beautifully hopeful and sweet.
We love a man who is good with his hands….and by hands I mean the restoration and carpentry. 😉 Isaac is the type of handy man every woman wants especially a woman who loves her plants. He used his actions to prove how much he cared for Ashlyn and I adored that.
Ashlyn’s type A personality with her structure and organization were exactly like me. It was nice to feel like the FMC was so relatable. I loved her passion for gardening and the way she treated Mummo. We worship a wonderful nurse. ♥️
This book had great banter and some great spicy moments! I thoroughly enjoyed the book and really look forward to reading more from Kelsey Woods! Thank you Kelsey for this ARC!
August 26, 2024
This was a cute and fun read.
Getting to the small town and seeing the family dynamic take its toll. The fighting and love that can be found within a family is always interesting to see how things go.
Isaac is the one that has to face those issues. His father is the one that causes the most hurt while his grandmother showers him with love. He has to face some hard truths in this story and has some stumbles along the way. In the end he knows the way to his girls heart.
Ashlyn is the one fighting to see what she wants in life. She wants a different life and then the one she is currently working. She is fumbling her way towards the life she wants and fighting to stay in control of everything along the way.
They find each other in their time of need though neither knows it. They need to see what they are missing and possibly the road towards that. They stumble along the way of course but in the end fight back to each other.
It was a great time in this small town.
Getting to the small town and seeing the family dynamic take its toll. The fighting and love that can be found within a family is always interesting to see how things go.
Isaac is the one that has to face those issues. His father is the one that causes the most hurt while his grandmother showers him with love. He has to face some hard truths in this story and has some stumbles along the way. In the end he knows the way to his girls heart.
Ashlyn is the one fighting to see what she wants in life. She wants a different life and then the one she is currently working. She is fumbling her way towards the life she wants and fighting to stay in control of everything along the way.
They find each other in their time of need though neither knows it. They need to see what they are missing and possibly the road towards that. They stumble along the way of course but in the end fight back to each other.
It was a great time in this small town.
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