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Griffin & Renee: Kiss Me in This Small Town

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From USA Today bestselling author Willow Winters comes a sexy, standalone, small town romance.

In this small town, everyone talks… and they all know I’m head over heels for my boss.

I didn’t know I had a type until he came to town. His charming smile and rough laugh did a number on me. It’s the way I found him always looking my way though, with his piercing gaze, that really did me in.

We’d share a glance. I’d blush.
Then we’d pretend there wasn’t sexual tension piled high between us.
First it was a look, then it was a touch, then it was late nights after work.

He’s the owner; I serve drinks at his bar.
He comes from money; I live paycheck to paycheck.
He told me to kiss him and I did more than that.

It happened so fast and I couldn’t stop it even though I know I shouldn’t have fallen for him. There’s too much he doesn’t know, including the very reason I could never be with him.

What we want doesn’t matter, there are some secrets that never let go.

248 pages, Paperback

First published February 27, 2024

39 people are currently reading
1201 people want to read

About the author

Willow Winters

156 books21.2k followers
Willow Winters is so happy to be a USA Today, Wall Street Journal and #1 Contemporary Best Selling Author!

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Willow started writing after having her little girl, Evie, December 2015. All during her pregnancy with Evie she continued to read and she only wanted to read romance. She was reading a book a day — sometimes two.

In January 2016 Willow was staying up late with Evie and just thinking of all these stories. They came to her constantly so she finally sat down and just started writing. She always wanted to do it so she figured, why not? Today Willow cannot be happier for making that decision!


Want to know how to read Willow's books? Get a FREE PDF download from Willow here: https://www.willowwinterswrites.com/o...

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5 stars
194 (42%)
4 stars
150 (32%)
3 stars
100 (21%)
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11 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
Profile Image for Mia S..
571 reviews42 followers
September 16, 2024
Slow burn small town, he falls first. This is a side story/after Tequila Rose. Bar owner and bartender. Yes tension gets to the both of them and they begin a relationship however she cannot fully go in because mother is suffering through abusive relationship. Renee thinks she’s not good enough so pulls away so Griffin thinks it’s because he’s pushing too hard. She ends up breaking off because he does push hard, he follows her home after and everything comes out. Yes very Romance, but actually pretty good!
Profile Image for Catherine.
148 reviews2 followers
June 12, 2024
OK, so I am new to this genre and have read 1.5 other books by this author, and honestly, I don’t get the appeal.

During the whole book I was thinking “Renee, you are the type of woman who gives other women a bad name. Seriously, stop “pretending” and grow up. Also stop being so closed minded and judgemental of other people. And see a therapist because you need help”. And then Griffin. Man, grow a spine and stop letting a woman who is sleeping with you crap all over you. You deserve better…except when you call her a tease. That is just…just stop.

And then the epilogue. It seriously feels like whiplash to go from whatever the hell the majority of the book was to that.

So now I’m trying to figure out if I hate this genre, this author or both.
Profile Image for TheSassyNerdBlog.
1,100 reviews435 followers
March 26, 2024
I’m convinced that Willow Winters can’t write a bad book! She never ceases to amaze me, honestly! With every book I read, I fall even more in love with her writing, her books and her characters and this new release Kiss Me In This Small Town was no exception.

This book is Renee and Griffin's book. If you have read Tequila Rose Duet (Tequila Rose & Autumn Night Whiskey) then you will have met them both in that duet. However, you DO NOT need to read that duet before this, also it’s an amazing read and I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it!


Griffin owns and runs a bar with his best friend Brody. It’s a pretty popular bar that keeps him pretty busy which is great because he’s an extremely hard worker. Renee is one of his employees and Griffin has feelings for her what’s not like about her? She’s smart, beautiful and kind and Renee also has feelings for her. However, things aren’t as simple or easy as being together. Most of the time Renee has the brightest smile on her face, one that can light up a room. She’s a beautiful human being with a beautiful heart, but behind those bright and beautiful eyes lurks pain and darkness that she doesn’t want to drag Griffin down with and will avoid as much as possible. You also add in the fact that it’s a small country town where everyone loves to talk and it doesn’t help that it’s a boss/employee relationship. Is Griffin able to convince Renee that they are meant to be or will Renee keep pushing him away and keeping him at arm's length?


This book was extremely sweet but it was also emotional and even though it wasn’t triggering for me, it may be triggering for others, so please keep that in mind.

All in all, it was a fantastic read that was unputdownable! Full of emotion, angst, steam, heartfelt moments and a beautiful happily ever after.

Highly recommend reading it!

5 STARS!

1,581 reviews28 followers
March 27, 2024
Willow Winters may be known for the darker and spicier read but she still knows how to write small town romances!!

Renee works at Griffin's bar (well, Griffin & Brody's bar - Brody from Tequila Rose, another top read!)

We get a whole lot of stolen glances, want and hope from these two. They're just two people who deserve to find their other halves and you can't help but cheer for them.

It's a heartwarming read with some angst - thoroughly enjoyed it!

Profile Image for Philippa - (The British Bibliophile).
Author 4 books40 followers
March 31, 2024
'Small-town suits Willow Winters like a book suits a reader's hands'. This Prepared to be charmed out of your socks--and everything else!' - The British Bibliophile

Thank you to Wildfire Marketing Solutions for sending me an ebook Advanced Readers Copy for me to read and leave an honest review, as part of the promotion and release of this book

NOTE - This review will be spoiler-free as standard, but will include references to the book's blurb. If you wish to go into this book without knowing a single thing about it, please exit from my review now :)


Kiss Me in this Small Town is a standalone novel written by the one and only Willow Winters, on of my must-read and absolute favourite authors. This is a smaller-than-average novel, making it perfect for a quick yet romantic, small-town read to devour in one sitting or over the weekend.

This is a little something different than what most might think when they first see the name 'Willow Winters'. Usually known for her hot romance novels full of steam, spice, smut and everything else, this is a change in a different direction. This lands on the side of contemporary romance with a hint of the former, but without it being the central element. Here a story is being told of forbidden romance, workplace romance and the simplicity of love in a small town.

As a reader who is up for anything--who especially loves forbidden/workplace romances--, I was down for this the second I saw its promo sign-up. Spice is nice, but now and then it's nice to step back from the heat and consume something savoury, sweet.

Life in a small town has its pitfalls. One of them? Town talk. Gossip. Whispers over whisky and loose lips on all other kinds of liquor. Especially at a bar. A bar which Renee is bartender and waitress for her boss and owner of said bar, Griffin. Everyone knows she is head-over-heels for him. A man whom until he came to town, she had no idea was even her type at all. Charmed by his smile and piercing gaze, she was a goner from day one with her heart enslaved to him and him alone.

As time went on, more glances were exchanged, blushes brought out on cheeks, budding building tension all became to much to ignore when one night, a look became a touch, which became late nights alone after work. What could possibly happen?

When the owner of the bar you work for--specifically under his direction--asks you to kiss him? As a dutiful employee it's your job to go above and beyond and Renee did just that. In fact, she did a whole lot more.

Sometimes love hits so fast, it's like a bolt of lightening. Shocking, startling and impressive all at the same time. Things between Renee and Griffen happen as fast as said bolt, and neither can stop what has been building between them. Renee knows deep down in her soul that she shouldn't have fallen for him, as there is so much that he doesn't know about her and her personal life. The very reason above all else, that she knows is the single thing keeping her from being with him long-term.

No matter how much we want things in life, be they big or small, sometimes they're just not meant to be. Renee's secrets are just too hard to let go of. Or are they?

Willow should be proud of her efforts with this book. It defines the small-town romance genre with all that we know and love about it. I consumed it over two days and genuinely wished that it wouldn't end. There was so much to know about Renee and Griffin, where their story would take them and how they would journey to their happily ever after. My only wish, is that I would've liked to have seen a few things physically on the page, rather than hear about them in abstract. For example, rather than hearing about an engagement or marriage or any event that has happened in a recap, I'd like to have physically read those scenes. Just my preference as a reader.

That said, I'm far from disappointed and I'm over-the-moon happy with what Willow has put into this story with Renee and Griffin. Definitely a couple that deserves more book time on the page! Hopefully we'll see them again at some point in the future, perhaps as side characters in another wonderful Willow Winters small town romance.

4 stars!
Profile Image for MissPetiteBrunetteBookBlog.
1,439 reviews267 followers
March 22, 2024
Get ready to swoon! Renee works at the bar owned by Griffin. They get into a “pretend relationship” for a bit but it isn’t what he really wants…or her really. They both have crushed on each other for a whole but didn’t want to ruin their professional relationship by dating. Can Griffin convince Renee that they would be better together for real? A sweet, small town romance set in the tequila sunrise world. Griffin is a true cinnamon roll hero! These two just make you smile. There is also an emotional side through that blends seamlessly within this romance. We also get to see previous characters as they are both friends with Griffin and Renee. This can be read as a stand alone but if you love a small town, feel good romance check out the rest of this series. Told in first person and dual POV.
Profile Image for Guylou (Two Dogs and a Book).
1,833 reviews
March 23, 2025
Slow-burn romance, small-town charm, and undeniable tension make 𝗞𝗜𝗦𝗦 𝗠𝗘 𝗜𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗜𝗦 𝗦𝗠𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗧𝗢𝗪𝗡 𝗯𝘆 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 a captivating read. Renee, a bartender living paycheck to paycheck, has been crushing on her boss, Griffin, the wealthy and broody owner of the bar. Their connection is electric—stolen glances, lingering touches, and undeniable chemistry—but Renee keeps her distance, convinced they come from different worlds. Beneath the romance, Renee struggles with a heartbreaking reality: her mother is trapped in an abusive relationship, and Renee doesn’t believe she deserves happiness of her own. When Griffin pushes for more, she pulls away, leaving them both hurt and confused. But Griffin isn't the type to give up easily, and when the truth finally comes out, emotions explode. A swoon-worthy, emotional journey that proves love is worth fighting for!
Profile Image for Julie Workman|Bookaholic Sisters Blog.
957 reviews32 followers
March 26, 2024
I absolutely love small town romances, they make me all warm and fuzzy and this one was no different. From the stolen glances to the gentle touches it made my heart swoon
Renee and Griffin's story was sweet and steamy and I could not get enough, as my emotions rose to the surface I could not look away. It was beautiful and an absolute must read.
Profile Image for Bethany.
74 reviews
April 9, 2024
Renee and Griffin - I absolutely love these characters. The tension and spice, absolutely loved it. Also really enjoyed how well it tied in with the Tequila Rose duet (no spoilers, you need to read them). Can't wait to read whats next for this book world, should she continue to keep writing in it ☺️
Profile Image for Ashley Schlegel.
547 reviews2 followers
December 18, 2024
(Hardback)
This book is basically 200 pages of a dude asking a girl "what's wrong" and her not answering because her life feels like a mess. And that happens over and over again. And despite the fact that they don't do anything to build their relationship except go on one date, they magically fall in love and he fixes everything and they live happily ever after.
Gag me.
Profile Image for Michele Del Rey.
3,026 reviews30 followers
March 31, 2024
I fell in love with the cover and fell even more in love with the characters and chemistry. I loved everything about this book.
Profile Image for Alicia.
2,080 reviews23 followers
March 24, 2024
With a sweet couple at its heart, Kiss Me in this Small Town is a heartwarming tale of love that has to struggle to find its way into the light of day. Griffin and Renee have a strong attraction to each other, but for personal, family reasons, Renee is resisting the pull to Griffin. My heart went out to her as she struggled to find some stability in her life while supporting a loved one in her time of need.
Griffin has such a wonderful family. They are all, and Brody and Mags, loving and caring, and I was looking forward to Renee finding her way into a situation that reflected her own caring, warm character.
This has been a lovely read with a well-earned HEA. 💖💖💖💖
Profile Image for Stacy H..
82 reviews6 followers
April 5, 2024
Renee barely has her life together, but she's trying. She needs this job. Her life depends on it. So kissing the boss is out of the question. But what of the magnetic pull? Can she stay away? Can he stay away? Will they give in to the kiss they both want?

Not only is Griffin Renee's boss, but Renee doesn't feel emotionally ready to be in a relationship. However, she feels utterly alone in a time of turmoil with no shoulder to cry on, no arms to embrace her, no one to turn to. Griffin deserves better than anything she can offer at the moment, so she pushes him away. But what if he is just what she needs? What if he can be that shoulder to cry on inside his warm embrace?

Giffin has his life together. Everything is fantastic. He owns a bar with his best friend, Brody. His mom and dad are proud of him. Life can't get any better -- or can it? He can't stop looking at Renee as she waits on tables, making customers smile, making him smile.

This is a story about two people who want each other, but is it their time? Is this the right time?

This story is raw. It bares their souls so deep. The writing is magnificent yet gut wrenching that your heart will hurt with them. All Griffin's life is missing is the woman who stole his heart -- and broke it. Renee is just trying to keep her sh!t together and keep her job. Will she let Griffin in? Give him a chance?

This is a fantastic read. It was slow at first because I didn't read the novels that occurred in time before Renee and Griffin's story. However, it is a stand alone and can be read without them. Highly recommend!

5 ⭐️ star; Level 2 spicy 🌶️ 🌶️
Profile Image for Megan Amaral.
266 reviews4 followers
June 12, 2024
3.5 -

First, it is always a pleasure being able to be a part of Willow Winter's arc team.

When I was sent this, I was in much need of a quick and cute palette cleanser in between my usual genres and this is exactly what this book provided.

This was a short and sweet, small-town romance between a boss and his employee/owner of a bar and a waitress, who have always been attracted to one another. This is their story about how they learned to love and trust again.

I think one of my favorite parts about this book, is how Winters will always give you a sneak peak, with zero context, in the first chapter - making me believe that the two were in some fake dating relationship and Griffen had done something to mess it all up somehow, and trying to find the strength to fix it all. Then as we started to get into the story, we realized that it was a completely different story.

We have Griffen, the bar owner, who was raised by amazing parents and surrounded my great friends, who is in love with a waitress.

We have Renee who had a rough upbringing and blames herself for her mother not being able to escape domestic abuse.

Two different people, one who believes in love, and the other who never wants to fall in love because she doesn't believe in it, find one another and ultimately start this relationship in secret.. calling it "fake dating" as an excuse for Renee to not call it for what it is, but be able to have sex.

This was a story about Griffin trying to show Renee what love is, and continuously trying to fight for her whenever she wanted to pull away.

I would have given this a higher rating if the characters weren't one-dimensional. I loved Griffin and his golden retriever energy. We all need a man who will fight for what he loves and won't give up. What bothered me about him though, was the fact that he only knew one way how to fight, as a one-size-fits-all all, and when it wouldn't work with Renee, he kept pushing until it did fit. Given, that it ultimately worked in the end, I would have loved to see Griffin try to support Renee in different ways... to show that he knew her and loved her and would support her in any way she was willing. Then potentially work up to a point where he would take care of things.

I would have given this book a higher rating if I enjoyed Renee's character, and if I didn't feel like she was making excuses to get what she wanted, but not taking any responsibility for it. She was self-aware most of the time, not wanting to use Griffin, but I feel that there is a fine line between calling someone your fake boyfriend to get sex, feeling like you are using him, and then treating him like garbage when you feel bad for using him. It's just... not how you treat people you care about. And that is a troupe I, personally, don't like reading about.

But this was a quick story about two people finding one another, and learning what love truly is. There was no huge climax where we saw the bad guy going down... and weirdly, I enjoyed that part of the book. The climax was Renee finally realizing how to open up and trust in someone else and accept their help. That is it. Simple. Not forced.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
3,730 reviews42 followers
March 25, 2024
This is a beautiful and Poignant small town romance and it is Griffin and Renee’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. Griffin always wanted to own his own bar with his best friend Brody and now that dream had finally come true with lots of hard work and making the right choices but the highlight of his day was when Renee came into work because she just light up the bar and also his heart. Renee works at Iron Brewery Bar and absolutely loves the job and people that she works with because they are a great crew and the highlight of her time working there is when Griffin who is also her boss walks in and his smile just does something to her even though she can never do anything about it because she doesn’t believe in love or relationships after what she had gone through with her parents situation which is still ongoing. The more time that Griffin and Renee work together the stronger the attraction and chemistry between them grows and they end up falling in love but with Renee’s history and the consequences if she gives in and tells Griffin how she feels could be disastrous and dangerous not only for Griffin but anyone else that she gets close too because of her father’s connections. Griffin will not give up on Renee no matter how hard she tries t push him away and he will stay by her side at the worst time in her life so that her past can be solved so that eventually they can stay together and have the happiness and future that they both want and deserve. Wow this book certainly takes you on a rollercoaster ride of so many different emotions and my heart completely broke with everything that Renee has had to go through and cope with in her life and I loved how Griffin didn’t let anyone take away what he wanted and how he fought hard to protect Renee with everything that he had regardless of the situation or consequences and that is what true love is all about. This book was so beautiful, poignant, amazing and emotional that it had me in tears so make sure that you have the tissues ready because you are definitely going to need them. I couldn’t put this book down and read it in one sitting until the early hours of the morning because it was so addictive. Willow Winters is an amazing author and writer and her books are definitely worth reading and you will not be disappointed and I can’t wait to read more books in the future.
Profile Image for Lindsay Williams.
74 reviews7 followers
April 5, 2024
💜💜 HOT NEW RELEASE 💜💜

We are excited to celebrate KISS ME IN THIS SMALL TOWN by Willow Winters is LIVE!

From USA Today Bestselling Author Willow Winters comes a sexy, small town romance.

In this small town, everyone talks... and they all know I'm head over heels for my boss.

I didn't know I had a type until he came to town. His charming smile and rough laugh did a number on me. It's the way I found him always looking my way though, with his piercing gaze, that really did me in.

We'd share a glance. I'd blush.
Then we'd pretend there wasn't sexual tension piled high between us.
First it was a look, then it was a touch, then it was late nights after work.

He's the owner; I serve drinks at his bar.
He comes from money; I live paycheck to paycheck.
He told me to kiss him and I did more than that.

It happened so fast and I couldn't stop it even though I know I shouldn't have fallen for him. There's too much he doesn't know, including the very reason I could never be with him.

What we want doesn't matter, there are some secrets that never let go.
____________________________________________________

This was my first Willow Winters read and I have to say I will definitely be reading more. I really liked this book. I did receive an Ebook Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for my honest review of the book. Thank you so much to Wildfire Marketing Solutions for allowing me opportunity to read & review this book. I didn’t read the other books in this series, but I didn’t feel lost at all. Griffin the bar owner/optimistic/sunshine MMC. And Renee the bartender/waitress & hesitant/guarded/ complicated past trauma/employee. These 2 couldn’t be anymore different, however they are drawn to each other and their chemistry is electric. The tug of war these 2 characters go through is intense. Griffin & Renee could be so great together but will this forbidden workplace romance be anything more than pretend? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Definitely recommend this book.
Profile Image for Ella Gillanders.
23 reviews1 follower
March 29, 2024
Willow Winters writing is just so easily digestible, she never fails to produce easy to read loveable books. Her small town collection is so heart warming and this new addition did not dissapoint!

It’s hard to create anticipation in just 193 pages, but Willow succeeded. You rooted for the pair to get together and she takes you on their journey. There were points where I gritted my teeth and got annoyed at Renee (no spoilers but… come on girl!) for being an idiot. But Griffin was the most easy to love MMC, he had all the perfect qualities you’d want in a boyfriend, absolutely fell in love with him.

Kiss me in this small town also didn’t disappoint on the spice level. For such a short book there was definitely a good portion of nicely detailed smut without being too graphic. But if that’s not your thing look elsewhere. That being said there was more plot to this one than some of Willow’s other works.

This is part of the Tequila Rose/ Magnolia world but you do not need to read magnolia to read this, it is a standalone. Willow didn’t include any major spoilers to Mags and Brody’s story so you can also read that after this if wanted.

The only criticism I have is that it leaves you wanting more, more explanation and trials at times. But you should always go into reading a WW standalone knowing that it will be quick and there may be parts you wish had more development, but you’ll always get a finished book with no loose strings.

For me this particularly surrounded Renee’s Dad as their relationship definitely could have had a little more detail and development, it just seemed very surface level when there is a lot to unpick. But this could have taken a long time to develop and would have taken away from the main storyline being about Renee and Griffins story.

Ratings…
Characters: 3.5/5
Plot: 3/5
Spice: 3.5/5
Overall: 3.5/5
Profile Image for Renee.
5,251 reviews73 followers
April 10, 2024
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

This is a small town romance and one that you are going to love. It also has a boss/employee forbidden relationship. It is the story of Renee and Griffin. If you read the Tequila Rose Duet then you met these two there. I am so glad that we are getting their story. But, you don't have to read that duet to read this book. It stands on its own and you won't be lost at all.

Griffin in the owner of a very popular bar that he runs with his best friend Brody. He is a really hard working man and loves that the bar keeps him so busy. He does not like to have idle hands. Renee works at the bar. They are from totally different worlds. He is loaded and she is dirt poor. She is also smart and funny, and very kind to everyone. She catches him looking at her which follows by touches and then late night together after work. However, Renee has darkness living in her and you will discover why as you read the book. She doesn't want to drag Griffin into that mess. Will he be able to make her realize that they belong together and her let him in? You have to read this book to find out. I fell so hard for these characters and I myself am from small town North Carolina. I felt like it was my town the way the people love to talk and spread gossip. Everyone knows everyone and all their business kind of place. Griffin is such a great human being. Easy on the eye and made me swoon more times than I can count. I loved how no matter how much Renee has been through, she always had a smile on her face and a kind word for everyone.
Profile Image for Palistha.
83 reviews3 followers
March 26, 2024
"Kiss Me in this Small Town" delivers a heartwarming small-town romance that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you rooting for love to prevail. Griffin and Renee's journey is a captivating tale of overcoming personal obstacles and finding solace in each other's arms.

Renee's struggles are palpable as she grapples with personal challenges while navigating her growing feelings for Griffin. Despite their undeniable chemistry, communication barriers and societal pressures threaten to keep them apart. My heart ached for Renee as she navigated the complexities of her situation, but I couldn't help but cheer for her resilience and strength.

Griffin's supportive and loving family adds depth to the story, serving as a beacon of warmth and stability amidst life's uncertainties. Witnessing Griffin and Renee's gradual realization of their love is both heartwarming and bittersweet, making their journey all the more rewarding.

This charming tale is filled with cozy vibes and tender moments that will leave you swooning. Griffin's endearing personality and Renee's unwavering determination make them a couple worth rooting for. As they navigate the ups and downs of small-town life, their love story unfolds with genuine emotion and authenticity.

"Kiss Me in this Small Town" is a delightful read that captures the essence of true love amidst life's challenges. With its relatable characters and heartfelt storyline, this small-town romance is sure to leave you smiling and believing in the power of love.
Profile Image for Heather Douglas.
465 reviews20 followers
April 12, 2024
Aww Willow!! Griffin and Renee's story was sweet and spicy in the best ways possible. Another beautiful forbidden romance to remember. If you've read the Tequila Rose Duet, then you've met Renee and Griffin already. Reading the duet is not required to read this book.

Griffin runs the local bar with his best friend Brody and Renee works there as a bartender/waitress. When a few stolen glances and smiles turn into something more a forbidden workplace, boss/ employee relationship emerges. What starts off as pretend quickly turns into something real. Griffin can and will steal the hearts of many. He's kind, sweet, protective and wears his heart on his sleeve. While Renee is used to being on her own. She's very guarded and strong to have gone through what she went through and still puts on a smile every day.

This story was sweet and emotional, but I do recommend checking for triggers. I loved the small-town vibes and the struggle this couple went through with hiding what they feel and want to what the town would think. If only we could live in a world where people didn't judge a boss for falling in love with their employee. Hell, I dated my "boss" and we're still together 8 years later. My ONLY issue not issue is that I wish it was longer. I loved how the story developed and I was entranced, but I felt like I was missing something like instead of the summery in the epilogue I wished it was expanded more. Like I said not really an issue, I just love Willow's work that much that I couldn't get enough of it!
Profile Image for Samantha.
527 reviews1 follower
November 15, 2024
Love the romance between griffin and Renee so much and I love the small town of Beaufort so much and that Brody, magnolia and Robert appear in this book and I love the friendships between brody and griffin and magnolia and Renee as well and I love the spicy scenes between griffin and Renee and I love it when griffin calls Renee is little tease in the book and I love that this book was set around December and I hate Renee’s dad in the book so much since he batters his wife Renee’s mum and I like that Renee’s mum is close with her sister in the book as well and I love the happy ending that griffin and Renee get and that Renee’s mum and griffins mum are close and I just love that griffin proposed to Renee on Christmas in front of there families and I love they griffin wanted to help Renee’s mum with there situation but overall I just love this book and love willow winters writing and will be reading more and just love this small town romance so much and I love that we get to see magnolia pregnant with her second child in the book as well and love that this was a quick read and I love that in small towns everyone knows everybody’s business

Also I love that brody and griffin together run a bar called the iron brewery in Beaufort and they both get there happy ever after with there girls so much and I just love the tequila rose small town romance series so much it’s my favourite by willow winters

Spicy
Dual PoV
Boss x employee
Under 240 pages
Part of the tequila rose duet
Small town romance
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Carissa Reed.
229 reviews3 followers
April 6, 2024
🍁🥃NEW RELEASE🥃🍁

📚: Kiss Me in This Small Town by Willow Winters

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

Tropes:
🍁SMALL TOWN
🥃FAKE DATING
🍁FORBIDDEN ROMANCE
🥃OPPOSITES ATTRACT
🍁INSTA-LOVE
🥃HE FALLS FIRST

Griffin owns the town bar with his best friend Brody. Ever since making their dream come true by opening the bar, they have stayed busy. The perk for him is that it’s in a small town, but still close-ish to his hometown so he can see his family regularly.

Renee is a bartender there and has a jaded past that she’d rather not involve Griffin in. Since she’s got this past she’s convinced that they shouldn’t be together even if everything inside her screams that she loves him.

There are stolen looks and two souls looking for their happily ever after. Then there’s the part where they live in a small town and don’t want to become the talk of the town by the employee/boss relationship.

The charm is outstanding and the story line is fantabulous. So glad to get another glance of Griffin and the trip these two lovebirds take us on.

This book is about Renee and Griffin, who we’ve previously met in the Tequila Rose Duet. However, it can be read as a complete standalone!! So go snag it and fall in love with them! ❤️

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Profile Image for Stephanie.
17 reviews1 follower
April 3, 2024
Griffin and Renee are attracted to each other, but how are they supposed to act on those emotions when Griffin owns the bar Renee works at. Griffin had liked Renee since the beginning but knows he can't do anything with his employee. He's a gentleman. Renee feels the same way about Griffin, but in this small town where rumors spread, she could never be with him. However, one night to pretend those roles don't exist could change everything. Everything could work out if Renee wasn't so hung up about her past and believing that Griffin deserves better than her. Will they be able to break down those barriers and find a way to be together?

Let me start by saying I have not read Tequila Rose, which is the world where this story takes place. Even though I haven't read it, I did not feel lost when the characters crossed over into the story. The story was a light love story and pallet cleanser for all the dark and fantasy I have read recently. I enjoyed the story and the background story that was built for Renee's past. This may be because I have not read the other stories in this world, but I did find the description of Griffin lacking, I had a hard time building a picture of him in my head. I found it to be a slow burn, which I enjoy, but I know slow burns are not for everyone. I found it to be a good light read and definitely small town vibes.
Profile Image for Daisy Knox.
Author 4 books37 followers
April 3, 2024

More reviews posted at Tales of Love, Life, and Murder

I adored Small Town, Big Rumors (the Tequila Rose duet) because Magnolia and Brody are great characters and their story was sweet and steamy. This book is set in the same world because it’s the story of their BFFs. I liked the characters a lot, although Renee started to frustrate me as the story went on and I worried she wouldn’t be able to redeem herself, but I’m happy to say she did. Griffin is sweet and likeable throughout, so there were times I felt bad for him. Renee has been through a lot and is dealing with some heavy stuff, so she’s got a lot of secrets.


Hiding her troubles is understandable, but pushing away her friend and the man she loves really isn’t, so I was running out of patience with her. She has a support system but won’t let anyone help her, even when Griffin begs. Luckily for Renee, Griffin doesn’t take no for an answer. This is a quick, short read with fun characters and a little bit of suspense, and I really enjoyed it.
Profile Image for Dawn Clements.
336 reviews25 followers
March 27, 2024
Kiss me in this small town is set in the Tequila Rose series but can be read as a complete stand-alone.
This is Griffin & Renne’s story ~
I adore Willow Winters, I love the characters she creates.

Renee works at the bar that Griffin owns, shared glances between them, sexual tension, attraction & scorching chemistry finally bubbles over & they share more than a kiss. Both have intense feelings for one another ~ Neither wants to ruin their professional relationship so enter a ‘pretend relationship’

Renee is bubbly friendly but she’s hiding a painful secret, a secret she doesn’t want to burden Griffin with.

This small town romance book is very sweet but it was also emotional, there is a darker element of past abuse, trauma & pain ~ This might be triggering for some readers but like everything Willow creates, she does with sensitivity.

I really enjoyed this book, I probably would have finished it in one sitting if life wasn’t so busy, it was full of emotion, angst, steam & heartfelt moments. It was definitely a page turner, making me feel so many things.

This is a story of healing & forgiveness. A tale of finding yourself again when you thought all was lost.
I thoroughly recommend this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Ana Rita.
1,773 reviews41 followers
April 1, 2024
Willow Winters has been a constant in my reading life and I'm so glad for the chance to read her books.
Each book is even more addictive than the latest and I can't get enough.
I've read so many, and I can't choose a favorite. I love them all.
Kiss Me in This Small Town is her latest release and explores the lives of Griffin and Renee.
Have you read Tequila Rose Duet? If you have, you know who they are.
These two have feelings for each other but since they are Boss and Employee, they don't want to jeopardize their relationship.
You can see that they want something more but won't.
What started as a fake relationship...
OMG, I'm in love.
I loved this book so freaking much that I'm sad it's over so soon.
It was a joy to read and I loved every second.
You can witness the chemistry they share and try to avoid.
I wanted to get inside the book and shake them both.
Jesus, let's talk about some stubborn people.
I loved the way the story progressed. Loved the chemistry and the desire they had for each other.
Loved the fact the Renee wanted to protect Griffin from her past. So sweet.
Overall, it was another amazing book that I advise everyone to read.
Amazing book Willow. You nailed it once again.
Profile Image for Heidi Sturgess.
1,133 reviews20 followers
April 5, 2024
Oh my gosh I just cried my heart out
I’m actually surprised I got any reading done ! Maybe it was my state of mind or maybe it was because my heart just felt so for Griffin and Renee , perhaps it was a combination 🤷‍♀️ anyhoo it was a good read and a release for all my inner toil it would seem 😉🥰📚

Griffin opens a bar the hometown Renee grew up in and Renee grew up in an abusive home and again trauma plays a big role , and my heart aches for her and her mum and quite frankly I want to dish out to get dad what he’s been giving for years snd see how he likes it !? He’ll probably cower away like the coward he is 🤮

Before I get carried away let me focus again 🤣 you can sense the tension between Griffin and Renee from the very first moment their eyes nest and you can’t help but cheer them on . Griffin has a heart of gold and he just perseveres and I so appreciate that of him , he follows his heart and he’s gentle with Renee and he heals a part of that very hurt and his family are so welcome and exactly what Renee and get mum needed 🥰

Don’t get me wrong there was steam and these 2 do get up to mischief in the workplace 😉but they’re a perfect match and I’m grateful for every tear I shed over them 🥰
2,600 reviews27 followers
April 9, 2024
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "KISS ME IN THIS SMALL TOWN" This story pulls at the heartstrings, full of emotional turmoil, past pain & darkness, angst, intrigue, heartfelt moments, steam, humor, secrets, boss/employee romance, twists that makes for a great captivating page turner.
Renee is from a small town its nice but people love to talk, gossip & know your business she works at a Bar that Griffin & his BF Brody own & it's quite popular she has feelings for Griffin but won't act on themshe trys up avoid him at all cost but he has feelings for her also & isn't willing to give up.
Renee & Griffin work closely together in the evening alone when he asks her to kiss him she couldn't stop herself what's been building between them is scorching hot, she worried cause he doesn't knit W her secrets or what her personal was like, the reason it can't be long term relationship.
I definitely recommend to get this interesting heartfelt romance Renee & Griffin take you on, will he find out her secrets, will ruin everything between or bring them closer together, it's a must read to find out want happens, can they get their HEA, you do won't be disappointed I thoroughly enjoyed their story.
AWESOME HEARTFELT ROMANCE YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤
Profile Image for DirtyDarkSmut.
9 reviews
July 12, 2024
I bought the special edition to this book and decided to read it this week. I didn’t know what to expect as it’s my first time reading a small town romance. My experience after reading this book is it made me feel all warm inside and gave me all the feels with such a swift but intriguing story. My cup of tea is usually dark romance, so taking that into consideration I really enjoyed this “quick” read.

I love Willow’s writing. A big thing for me is an authors writing. That’s how I know I will be drawn and pulled into a book. You have to catch my attention with your writing and Willow did just that! This book is the story of Griffin&Renee, two individuals living in a small town who long for one another and find their way to each other rightfully so.

I am a sucker for happy endings as well and this was exactly it! I would say though, if you’re a person to deep dive into a plot or a story maybe this book isn’t for you. But I would recommend anyone going into this genre as a first to be open minded, and read this book for what it is and simply that. It’s a story about love and compassion. Take it for what it is and don’t think too much on it. It’s a really cute read(with a hint of spice hehe) Thank you Willow for writing this story and sharing it with your readers!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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