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Wilcox Grove #1
Barefoot Lake
When her mother passes away from a long battle with cancer, Alice’s life is tilted on its axis. After ending her flat-lined, disastrous relationship, she flees Boston for the lake house her mother left behind in Wilcox Grove, New Hampshire. The presence of so much nature all around her is jarring enough on its own, but her quaint new home also seems determined to sabotage her. Alice is still floundering to figure out how to be a homeowner in the middle of the woods when she meets her surly new neighbor, who seems to hate her before they’ve even spoken.
Jake Preston has lived in Wilcox Grove nearly his entire life, where he prefers to keep mostly to himself. His quiet sanctuary is aggressively disturbed by the hurricane of a woman who moves in next door, seemingly determined to completely destroy the home of somebody he considered a dear friend. Prickly on his best day, Jake is not about to play friendly neighbor to the menace who has come to town to turn everything upside down.
Barefoot Lake is a small-town, open-door, grumpy/sunshine romance about opening up and redefining success and happiness.
Jake Preston has lived in Wilcox Grove nearly his entire life, where he prefers to keep mostly to himself. His quiet sanctuary is aggressively disturbed by the hurricane of a woman who moves in next door, seemingly determined to completely destroy the home of somebody he considered a dear friend. Prickly on his best day, Jake is not about to play friendly neighbor to the menace who has come to town to turn everything upside down.
Barefoot Lake is a small-town, open-door, grumpy/sunshine romance about opening up and redefining success and happiness.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
45 people are currently reading
471 people want to read
About the author
Kim Swizz
3 books41 followersAfter nearly half a decade of practicing law, Kim Swizz is now a recovering attorney, living her best life writing small-town romance. Kim has always had a passion for creative writing but has never published a novel (unless you count the book she wrote and had bound in first grade, a titillating story entitled “The Cat is Eating”) — until now. She is excited to leave behind the days of drafting contracts and start this new chapter.
A forever Jersey girl turned former Arizona resident, Kim now calls Boston home with her husband, though they love to travel together.
When she is not writing spicy scenes or making her readers cry, you can find her crocheting tiny things, knitting, embroidering, cross-stitching, bullet journaling — you get the point.
Kim is never without her emotional support Kindle and is an avid F1 fan, keeping up with news on all of the drivers, but mostly Carlos Sainz.
Kim is an unapologetic Disney adult who loves the smell of fall, small animals, and dancing her heart out (and Carlos Sainz).
A forever Jersey girl turned former Arizona resident, Kim now calls Boston home with her husband, though they love to travel together.
When she is not writing spicy scenes or making her readers cry, you can find her crocheting tiny things, knitting, embroidering, cross-stitching, bullet journaling — you get the point.
Kim is never without her emotional support Kindle and is an avid F1 fan, keeping up with news on all of the drivers, but mostly Carlos Sainz.
Kim is an unapologetic Disney adult who loves the smell of fall, small animals, and dancing her heart out (and Carlos Sainz).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
April 28, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
DNF @ 75%
It was fine, but pretty boring and overall the writing felt very novice. I’m not in a strong reading mood so I just couldn’t be bothered to finish it.
DNF @ 75%
It was fine, but pretty boring and overall the writing felt very novice. I’m not in a strong reading mood so I just couldn’t be bothered to finish it.
September 25, 2025
(4.5 Stars) If you love fall vibes, small towns and infuriatingly handsome neighbors, let me introduce you to the first book in the Wilcox Grove series!
Alice’s mom recently passed away after a long battle with cancer and the loss gave her some intense clarity about her toxic fiancé. A driven Boston professor on leave for a semester, Alice retreats to the small lake cabin in Wilcox Grove she has inherited. New to home ownership and rural lake life, Alice is definitely a fish out of water. Her chaotic home ownership is just one of the many reasons she drives her grumpy neighbor, Jake Preston, absolutely crazy. That must be the reason he simply cannot stop thinking about her (narrator: It absolutely was not the reason). As they continue to cross paths, they begin to realize that they might have more in common than they first thought and as Wilcox Grove (and Jake) begin to grow on Alice, she begins to reassess what brings her happiness.
With its charming cast of townsfolk, a local bar, grudges and gossip, a wise old man, and plenty of shenanigans, Wilcox Grove feels like a place you’ll want to move into immediately. Think Lovelight Farms or Stars Hollow, but with a Bostonian’s sharp wit woven through. Both Alice and Jake have experienced loss and have processed it in complex ways that they need to unpack to become the person they want to be for someone else. I adored how Swizz balanced humor and heartache while exploring what it means to start fresh. Both Alice and Jake are flawed, layered, and so easy to cheer for. I’ll be diving into book two right away - this is a series I’m thrilled to have discovered!
Book: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
🔥 Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Alice’s mom recently passed away after a long battle with cancer and the loss gave her some intense clarity about her toxic fiancé. A driven Boston professor on leave for a semester, Alice retreats to the small lake cabin in Wilcox Grove she has inherited. New to home ownership and rural lake life, Alice is definitely a fish out of water. Her chaotic home ownership is just one of the many reasons she drives her grumpy neighbor, Jake Preston, absolutely crazy. That must be the reason he simply cannot stop thinking about her (narrator: It absolutely was not the reason). As they continue to cross paths, they begin to realize that they might have more in common than they first thought and as Wilcox Grove (and Jake) begin to grow on Alice, she begins to reassess what brings her happiness.
With its charming cast of townsfolk, a local bar, grudges and gossip, a wise old man, and plenty of shenanigans, Wilcox Grove feels like a place you’ll want to move into immediately. Think Lovelight Farms or Stars Hollow, but with a Bostonian’s sharp wit woven through. Both Alice and Jake have experienced loss and have processed it in complex ways that they need to unpack to become the person they want to be for someone else. I adored how Swizz balanced humor and heartache while exploring what it means to start fresh. Both Alice and Jake are flawed, layered, and so easy to cheer for. I’ll be diving into book two right away - this is a series I’m thrilled to have discovered!
Book: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
🔥 Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 30, 2024
4.25/5⭐️
This book gave me all the fall feels I absolutely loved it!! This was such a cute and cozy fall romance with spice!
I actually really liked the plot and how character driven it was! Also the character development from the FMC Alice was so good!
This is definitely going to be my new auto buy author because the writing was so descriptive and just easy to get immersed into! The romance was romancing let me tell you. The slow burn was perfect especially for a shorter book like this it was done perfectly. I would highly recommend this book and this author!
This book gave me all the fall feels I absolutely loved it!! This was such a cute and cozy fall romance with spice!
I actually really liked the plot and how character driven it was! Also the character development from the FMC Alice was so good!
This is definitely going to be my new auto buy author because the writing was so descriptive and just easy to get immersed into! The romance was romancing let me tell you. The slow burn was perfect especially for a shorter book like this it was done perfectly. I would highly recommend this book and this author!
November 19, 2024
My first romance read… what is wrong w me?? Love the small town vibe and watching Alice call a new place home. And JAKE. Can’t wait to read Kim’s next Wilcox Grove novel!
October 1, 2024
ARC REVIEW
What to expect :
🏡Small Town
🌤️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🫂Neighbors
💕He Falls First
🍁 Autumn Vibes
This is a debut novel and i has so much fun reading this one! Alice’s mother passes and leaves her a house, so she makes the journey to the small town of Wilcox Grove! I immediately loved this town immediately, plus a house on a lake in the fall sign up ✏️
When you find you have a grumpy neighbor, who ALSO owns a nursery( we’re you made for me Jake). Jake I’d also the COMMUNICATION KING! This story roped me in and was so comfy cozy. And yes the spice is there 🤭The side characters were so good too and I will be looking forward to more in this series!
Grab your pumpkin spice, cozy blanket and sit by the fire and read this for your fall book! 🍁 🍂
❓ what’s your favorite fall activity!
Thank you @legendsliterarymanagement & @authorkimswizz for this EARC in exchange for an honest review!
What to expect :
🏡Small Town
🌤️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🫂Neighbors
💕He Falls First
🍁 Autumn Vibes
This is a debut novel and i has so much fun reading this one! Alice’s mother passes and leaves her a house, so she makes the journey to the small town of Wilcox Grove! I immediately loved this town immediately, plus a house on a lake in the fall sign up ✏️
When you find you have a grumpy neighbor, who ALSO owns a nursery( we’re you made for me Jake). Jake I’d also the COMMUNICATION KING! This story roped me in and was so comfy cozy. And yes the spice is there 🤭The side characters were so good too and I will be looking forward to more in this series!
Grab your pumpkin spice, cozy blanket and sit by the fire and read this for your fall book! 🍁 🍂
❓ what’s your favorite fall activity!
Thank you @legendsliterarymanagement & @authorkimswizz for this EARC in exchange for an honest review!
September 29, 2024
This was SUCH a cute, spicy, and cozy fall romance. 100% recommend reading this one!
What to expect
- Small Town Romance
- Quick Enemies to Lovers
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- No Third Act Break-Up
- Fun/ Quirky Side Characters.
- 3 pepper rating for spice
But I recommend checking trigger warnings *
The plot was mainly character driven, and I enjoyed the character development for mostly the MFC Alice, but also the MMC Jake.
The writing was incredibly descriptive, adding a magical touch that immersed me in the fall vibes without making the book feel slow or drawn out.
The romance was SO GOOD. It was a decent slow burn, considering the shorter book length. And I was pleasantly surprised on the spice. Jake was a yummy surprise. Definition of "he will talk ya through it."
I would highly suggest this book if you're a fan of the Lovelight Farms series - it had such similar vibes!
What to expect
- Small Town Romance
- Quick Enemies to Lovers
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- No Third Act Break-Up
- Fun/ Quirky Side Characters.
- 3 pepper rating for spice
But I recommend checking trigger warnings *
The plot was mainly character driven, and I enjoyed the character development for mostly the MFC Alice, but also the MMC Jake.
The writing was incredibly descriptive, adding a magical touch that immersed me in the fall vibes without making the book feel slow or drawn out.
The romance was SO GOOD. It was a decent slow burn, considering the shorter book length. And I was pleasantly surprised on the spice. Jake was a yummy surprise. Definition of "he will talk ya through it."
I would highly suggest this book if you're a fan of the Lovelight Farms series - it had such similar vibes!
May 28, 2025
Such a cute and cozy fall rom com. I loved the chemistry and growth of both main characters! Its grumpy/sunshine and he falls first and harder! This small town definitely gives off stars hollow from gilmore girls vibes. I would highly recommend as a great read for sweater weather! Heres to hoping we get a story for Piper and Scott!
October 13, 2024
Barefoot Lake By Kim Swizz 🍂✨️
If you want to romanticise your life this fall.. this book is for you! Cuddled up in soft blanked, snuggling with my cats, sipping on my tea, and reading this book was such a vibe 🤭🍂.
Barefoot Lake follows Alice and Jake (in dual pov!!). Alice flees Boston for the lake house her mother left behind in Wilcox Grove, New Hampshire. Where she is faced with a house determined to sabotage her. Alice is still trying to figure out how to be a homeowner in the middle of nature when she meets her surly new neighbour, who seems to hate her before they've even spoken... Jake has lived nearly his entire life in Wilcox Grove, where he prefers to keep to himself. His quiet life is disturbed when a hurricane of a woman moves in next door. She seems to be determined to destroy the home of someone he considered a dear friend. Jake isn't planning on being very neighbourly to the menace who has come to town to turn everything upside down.
Even though this was a funny, cozy, small town, fall read.. It dealt with some more serious and important topics, such as grief and redefining happiness and success to fit us, in a very beautiful way.
I really enjoyed Barefoot Lake! I had a great time reading it. It was constantly on my mind in the best of ways. I was smiling and giggling 🤭.
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶🌶🌶 /5
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25 /5
I highly recommend Barefoot Lake!!
If you want to romanticise your life this fall.. this book is for you! Cuddled up in soft blanked, snuggling with my cats, sipping on my tea, and reading this book was such a vibe 🤭🍂.
Barefoot Lake follows Alice and Jake (in dual pov!!). Alice flees Boston for the lake house her mother left behind in Wilcox Grove, New Hampshire. Where she is faced with a house determined to sabotage her. Alice is still trying to figure out how to be a homeowner in the middle of nature when she meets her surly new neighbour, who seems to hate her before they've even spoken... Jake has lived nearly his entire life in Wilcox Grove, where he prefers to keep to himself. His quiet life is disturbed when a hurricane of a woman moves in next door. She seems to be determined to destroy the home of someone he considered a dear friend. Jake isn't planning on being very neighbourly to the menace who has come to town to turn everything upside down.
Even though this was a funny, cozy, small town, fall read.. It dealt with some more serious and important topics, such as grief and redefining happiness and success to fit us, in a very beautiful way.
I really enjoyed Barefoot Lake! I had a great time reading it. It was constantly on my mind in the best of ways. I was smiling and giggling 🤭.
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶🌶🌶 /5
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25 /5
I highly recommend Barefoot Lake!!
October 1, 2024
I finished this warm hug of a book in less than 12 hours, if you wanted a sweet, small town read full of fall vibes then please add this debut to your tbr!!!
Barefoot Lake is a story filled with personal growth, grieving, quintessential small town characters, grumpy neighbors, gorgeous scenery, and last but certainly not least AN ACTS OF SERVICE MAN 🗣️🗣️
Jake & Alice may start off in a rocky place when circumstances cause her to move in next door, but is their mutual frustration enough to keep this relationship from heating up? Jake and his lumberjack aura were so endearing, he truly is “if he wanted to, he would” embodied. Alice had some truly relatable moments from her POV, I really enjoyed her character a lot and the growth that these two go through together was absolutely something special.
tropes:
🍂 dual POV
🍂 small town
🍂 grumpy x sunshine
🍂 “I can do it myself” x “I know you can, but let me”
🍂 grief journey
🍂 “charming” lake house
🍂 next door neighbors
thank you to Kim Swizz and Legends Literary Management for the advance eARC of this book!💫
___________________________
full ARC review to come!! a wonderful debut novel and a perfect fall read :)
Barefoot Lake is a story filled with personal growth, grieving, quintessential small town characters, grumpy neighbors, gorgeous scenery, and last but certainly not least AN ACTS OF SERVICE MAN 🗣️🗣️
Jake & Alice may start off in a rocky place when circumstances cause her to move in next door, but is their mutual frustration enough to keep this relationship from heating up? Jake and his lumberjack aura were so endearing, he truly is “if he wanted to, he would” embodied. Alice had some truly relatable moments from her POV, I really enjoyed her character a lot and the growth that these two go through together was absolutely something special.
tropes:
🍂 dual POV
🍂 small town
🍂 grumpy x sunshine
🍂 “I can do it myself” x “I know you can, but let me”
🍂 grief journey
🍂 “charming” lake house
🍂 next door neighbors
thank you to Kim Swizz and Legends Literary Management for the advance eARC of this book!💫
___________________________
full ARC review to come!! a wonderful debut novel and a perfect fall read :)
August 31, 2024
UGH THE FALL VIBESSS 🍁🍂🍃 I loved this book so so much. Fall is my fav season and this book just did everything right. The scenic descriptions, the atmosphere, the small details (pumpkins, changing leaves, clothing, seasonal drinks) PERFECTION 👏🏻 Plus we’re set in a lake setting? 10/10.
Jake and Alice just complete each other in every way. We love a man who makes a woman feel safe 👏🏻 And we love a woman who makes a man feel wanted 👏🏻
This is the perfect fall read 🎃🥧 Don’t hesitate to grab this comfy cozy read 🫶🏻
Jake and Alice just complete each other in every way. We love a man who makes a woman feel safe 👏🏻 And we love a woman who makes a man feel wanted 👏🏻
This is the perfect fall read 🎃🥧 Don’t hesitate to grab this comfy cozy read 🫶🏻
October 1, 2024
ARC REVIEW: 4.5⭐️ 2.5🌶️
I cannot believe this is Kim’s debut. The writing is really good and makes you feel like you’re in Wilcox Grove. The quirky small town characters (lookin at you Grateful Bob) are a wonderful addition that gives the book some extra pizzazz and keeps you coming back for more. I always love when authors make readers fall in love with the best friends (Piper) and other supporting characters (Heidi, Eli, etc) in books because it goes to show how much love they put into writing.
If you want a book with cozy fall vibes, this is the one. Alice and Jake get off on the wrong foot but after being thrown together time and again, they figure out their feelings and what they want (which is each other). The development of their relationship is natural and Jake is the epitome of “if he wanted to, he would.”
If you enjoyed If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia and are itching for a similar book, you NEED to read this.
I cannot believe this is Kim’s debut. The writing is really good and makes you feel like you’re in Wilcox Grove. The quirky small town characters (lookin at you Grateful Bob) are a wonderful addition that gives the book some extra pizzazz and keeps you coming back for more. I always love when authors make readers fall in love with the best friends (Piper) and other supporting characters (Heidi, Eli, etc) in books because it goes to show how much love they put into writing.
If you want a book with cozy fall vibes, this is the one. Alice and Jake get off on the wrong foot but after being thrown together time and again, they figure out their feelings and what they want (which is each other). The development of their relationship is natural and Jake is the epitome of “if he wanted to, he would.”
If you enjoyed If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia and are itching for a similar book, you NEED to read this.
June 29, 2025
Our book club recently had the opportunity to meet Kim Swizz at a local bookstore to discuss her first book “Barefoot Lake”. We were delighted to meet her and so impressed with her level of knowledge and her enthusiasm for writing. Kim has what it takes to become a very successful author! Our bookclub loves to support strong women like Kim. We highly recommend others to read “Barefoot Lake”, you will not be disappointed.
September 3, 2024
So grateful to have read this as an ARC! This was such an adorable book! The fall vibes mixed with the homey-ness of Wilcox Grove and the romance of Jake and Alice was perfect! I also love Gilmore Girls and this book gives off sooo much Gilmore Girls energy! The epilogue was so cute but I do wish there was another one later into the future. Such a great book!!
September 7, 2024
Kim Swizz, with her DEBUT NOVEL, created a world that feels as cozy as Rory Gilmore’s cable knit sweater. It’s apple cider and pumpkin spice. It’s crunching leaves beneath your feet while you enjoy the foliage. It teaches you that there is joy in starting over, no matter how daunting it seems.
I cannot wait to revisit Wilcox Grove and check in on Jake and Alice and Piper and Scott and Eli and Grateful Bob for the rest of forever.
Barefoot Lake is the perfect small town romance set in fall in New England. A scrumptious grumpy man falls first for the sunshine girl who blows into town for a fresh start. There is spice and laughs and moments that make you feel so deeply. This is the book to kick off your autumn season every single year.
I cannot wait to revisit Wilcox Grove and check in on Jake and Alice and Piper and Scott and Eli and Grateful Bob for the rest of forever.
Barefoot Lake is the perfect small town romance set in fall in New England. A scrumptious grumpy man falls first for the sunshine girl who blows into town for a fresh start. There is spice and laughs and moments that make you feel so deeply. This is the book to kick off your autumn season every single year.
September 13, 2024
this is THE fall book for the girlies!!!! its so incredibly cozy and comforting, hilarious and heartfelt, and made me laugh until i cried and cry until i laughed. from piper to rain to grateful bob to our main characters, i could feel their personalities through the pages and made love them even more. and none for reid bye!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2025
After reading this small town, grumpy/sunshine romance I wanted to move to Wilcox Grove and become a member of the town! Jake and Alice will make you laugh, cry, and SWOON! If you're
looking for a romance that will bring you ALL THE FEELS, cozy fall vibes, and a little bit of (pumpkin)
SPICE <—-see what I did there--> THEN LOOK
NO FURTHER because this one is PERFECTION!
looking for a romance that will bring you ALL THE FEELS, cozy fall vibes, and a little bit of (pumpkin)
SPICE <—-see what I did there--> THEN LOOK
NO FURTHER because this one is PERFECTION!
February 23, 2025
So glad I randomly came across this at a store. Easily one of the best reads of the year
May 4, 2025
Should’ve saved this book for the fall lol. I love this book! It was a fun and light hearted book but definitely had some unexpected scenes.
September 29, 2025
Probably 3.5 stars, solid first book, little too heavy on the booktok phrases. But I would read the next one.
September 24, 2024
Hi, can I just return to Wilcox Grove already? 😭
This is everything you want to read during the fall. Cozy vibes? Check. Fall foliage? Check. Small town vibes? Check. A grumpy neighbor who turns out to be absolutely charming? CHECK. Some spice? ALSO CHECK.
I loved so much about this book that I don’t even know where to start. It had a really good flow to it and it made me want to giggle as well as kick my feet.
The only thing (and this is such a me thing because I’m emo AF apparently) is that I think it was just resolved way too easily. I wanted a little bit more angst. Some more turmoil towards the end.
Thank you Kim Swizz and Legends Literary Management for the ARC in exchange for an honest review! Truly feel such an honor to be able to read your debut novel!
This is everything you want to read during the fall. Cozy vibes? Check. Fall foliage? Check. Small town vibes? Check. A grumpy neighbor who turns out to be absolutely charming? CHECK. Some spice? ALSO CHECK.
I loved so much about this book that I don’t even know where to start. It had a really good flow to it and it made me want to giggle as well as kick my feet.
The only thing (and this is such a me thing because I’m emo AF apparently) is that I think it was just resolved way too easily. I wanted a little bit more angst. Some more turmoil towards the end.
Thank you Kim Swizz and Legends Literary Management for the ARC in exchange for an honest review! Truly feel such an honor to be able to read your debut novel!
February 24, 2025
I loved this book! It was a quick and easy read, the writing flowed really well and kept me engaged. I loved the differences in the characters, the grumpy neighbour who shows he cares in other ways. The slow burn was a good pace, not snail pace but cheekily slow. Spice was good and plenty, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Any time I am lucky enough to get an ARC, it brings me so much joy and pleasure to be able to read someone’s creation.
Definitely an author that will be on my automatic reading list.
Any time I am lucky enough to get an ARC, it brings me so much joy and pleasure to be able to read someone’s creation.
Definitely an author that will be on my automatic reading list.
September 1, 2024
Rating: 5/5 stars | Spice Level: 2/5 🌶️🌶️
Barefoot Lake by Kim Swizz, the first book in the Wilcox Grove series, is a heartwarming small-town romance that beautifully blends healing, love, and community. The story follows Alice, who has just lost her mother and inherited her mother’s quirky and charming cabin along Barefoot Lake. Seeking solace after leaving her emotionally abusive fiancé and escaping the chaos of Boston, Alice returns to the quiet embrace of Wilcox Grove, where everybody knows everybody.
Next to Alice’s cabin is her only neighbor, Jake—a burly, lumberjack-like man who co-owns the town's nursery. Jake was a close friend of Alice’s mother, Raihn, often helping with small repairs and keeping the cabin in good shape. As Alice settles into her new life, a slow-burn romance begins to blossom between her and Jake. Told through a dual POV, we witness Alice navigating her grief and desire for independence while Jake struggles to open up and let someone in, knowing Alice might leave at the end of the season to return to Boston.
I loved the natural progression of Alice and Jake's relationship, moving from reluctant friends to lovers. The story felt realistic and relatable, with both characters dealing with personal baggage in a genuine way. The small-town setting was charming and inviting, making it easy to fall in love with not just Alice and Jake but the entire Wilcox Grove community. Grateful Bob may have snuck in as my favorite character. The spice level was just right, and the romance was heartfelt and top-notch.
I'm excited to see what Kim Swizz has in store for us next! I'd love to see more of Piper, Alice’s best friend, who is facing toxic workplace drama at her dream job in the library.
Thank you to the author for the ARC! I highly recommend picking up Barefoot Lake when it releases on October 1st.
Barefoot Lake by Kim Swizz, the first book in the Wilcox Grove series, is a heartwarming small-town romance that beautifully blends healing, love, and community. The story follows Alice, who has just lost her mother and inherited her mother’s quirky and charming cabin along Barefoot Lake. Seeking solace after leaving her emotionally abusive fiancé and escaping the chaos of Boston, Alice returns to the quiet embrace of Wilcox Grove, where everybody knows everybody.
Next to Alice’s cabin is her only neighbor, Jake—a burly, lumberjack-like man who co-owns the town's nursery. Jake was a close friend of Alice’s mother, Raihn, often helping with small repairs and keeping the cabin in good shape. As Alice settles into her new life, a slow-burn romance begins to blossom between her and Jake. Told through a dual POV, we witness Alice navigating her grief and desire for independence while Jake struggles to open up and let someone in, knowing Alice might leave at the end of the season to return to Boston.
I loved the natural progression of Alice and Jake's relationship, moving from reluctant friends to lovers. The story felt realistic and relatable, with both characters dealing with personal baggage in a genuine way. The small-town setting was charming and inviting, making it easy to fall in love with not just Alice and Jake but the entire Wilcox Grove community. Grateful Bob may have snuck in as my favorite character. The spice level was just right, and the romance was heartfelt and top-notch.
I'm excited to see what Kim Swizz has in store for us next! I'd love to see more of Piper, Alice’s best friend, who is facing toxic workplace drama at her dream job in the library.
Thank you to the author for the ARC! I highly recommend picking up Barefoot Lake when it releases on October 1st.
October 20, 2024
This sweet and spicy romcom should be on your autumn tbr! I am so happy to report that I utterly adored this book!
The story centers around Alice, who moves into her recently deceased mother’s lake house to go through her mother’s things and take a break from her own life. Alice recently got out of a bad relationship and is taking a sabbatical from her job in the English department of a university.
Of course, mayhem ensues. Not only does her mother’s house seem to have it out for her, but her neighbor is an elusive person who seems to be avoiding her and yet also helping her with small repairs around the place. Finally she meets him - the grumpy neighbor Jake who was friends with her mom but doesn’t want to allow himself to get close to Alice because if he knows one thing, it’s that everyone leaves him at some point.
This book is a dose of cozy, found family, and deliciously spicy romance. I love the small town setting and the friends that Alice makes along the way of settling in. The friendships in this book truly were so lovely - I adored Piper, Hannah, and Grateful Bob!
But of course, my favorite part was the romance that blossoms between Alice and Jake. They are one of those couples that are just perfect for each other. I fully appreciated their maturity and the healthy communication they had throughout the book. And let me tell you, those spicy scenes? Amazing. 🔥
Check out Barefoot Lake by Kim Swizz as soon as you can!! I hope you love it as much as I did. 🧡
The story centers around Alice, who moves into her recently deceased mother’s lake house to go through her mother’s things and take a break from her own life. Alice recently got out of a bad relationship and is taking a sabbatical from her job in the English department of a university.
Of course, mayhem ensues. Not only does her mother’s house seem to have it out for her, but her neighbor is an elusive person who seems to be avoiding her and yet also helping her with small repairs around the place. Finally she meets him - the grumpy neighbor Jake who was friends with her mom but doesn’t want to allow himself to get close to Alice because if he knows one thing, it’s that everyone leaves him at some point.
This book is a dose of cozy, found family, and deliciously spicy romance. I love the small town setting and the friends that Alice makes along the way of settling in. The friendships in this book truly were so lovely - I adored Piper, Hannah, and Grateful Bob!
But of course, my favorite part was the romance that blossoms between Alice and Jake. They are one of those couples that are just perfect for each other. I fully appreciated their maturity and the healthy communication they had throughout the book. And let me tell you, those spicy scenes? Amazing. 🔥
Check out Barefoot Lake by Kim Swizz as soon as you can!! I hope you love it as much as I did. 🧡
September 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
So honored to have the ability to read this one early. It definitely did not read like a debut novel, I was so impressed!
I loved getting into the world of Jake and Alice. The author created such a cute small town in Wilcox Grove and it was so fun to see Alice really discover what she wanted out of life.
After the passing of her mom, Alice heads to Wilcox Grove to figure out what to do with her mom's old cabin. The cabin shares land with another one, and it just so happens to be a broody guy who wants nothing to do with his new neighbor. This enemies to lovers tale was heartwarming to read and Jake is the perfect book boyfriend. He truly did everything right and we love that for Alice. I was swooning multiple times at his simple acts of kindness, communication, and consistency that Alice really needed after coming out of a tough relationship before.
Make sure to check this one out! I can't wait for book 2.
Read if you love:
🍁fall vibes
🍁forced proximity
🍁great friendships
🍁swoony moments
🍁happily ever after
"I pause. It feels rash to think it already, but Alice feels like home."
So honored to have the ability to read this one early. It definitely did not read like a debut novel, I was so impressed!
I loved getting into the world of Jake and Alice. The author created such a cute small town in Wilcox Grove and it was so fun to see Alice really discover what she wanted out of life.
After the passing of her mom, Alice heads to Wilcox Grove to figure out what to do with her mom's old cabin. The cabin shares land with another one, and it just so happens to be a broody guy who wants nothing to do with his new neighbor. This enemies to lovers tale was heartwarming to read and Jake is the perfect book boyfriend. He truly did everything right and we love that for Alice. I was swooning multiple times at his simple acts of kindness, communication, and consistency that Alice really needed after coming out of a tough relationship before.
Make sure to check this one out! I can't wait for book 2.
Read if you love:
🍁fall vibes
🍁forced proximity
🍁great friendships
🍁swoony moments
🍁happily ever after
"I pause. It feels rash to think it already, but Alice feels like home."
September 4, 2024
Y’all. If you’re a seasonal mood reader like myself, I have the PERFECT fall romcom for you! Small town on a lake, pumpkins, Grateful Bob and some of the best side characters, a moose, dual POV, a grumpy but lovable MMC who falls first and falls hard - and also by the way, can immediately recognize miscommunication and fix it 👀 we love to see it.
The writing in this book was INCREDIBLE. I literally felt so immersed in the world of Barefoot Lake and could picture the town on the lake so clearly. Felt like I was right there, like a fly on the wall. Something I truly loved though, was actually feeling the characters fall in love. I felt like I was actually in character’s mind and seeing through their eyes. I don’t know that I’ve ever felt that way reading before. I mean, reading Jake’s chapters I was SWOONING, big cheesin felt it in my heart, SWOONING (caught by my husband too 😂😅).
I cannot recommend this book enough.
“…it’s impossible not to fall in love with Barefoot Lake in fall.”
The writing in this book was INCREDIBLE. I literally felt so immersed in the world of Barefoot Lake and could picture the town on the lake so clearly. Felt like I was right there, like a fly on the wall. Something I truly loved though, was actually feeling the characters fall in love. I felt like I was actually in character’s mind and seeing through their eyes. I don’t know that I’ve ever felt that way reading before. I mean, reading Jake’s chapters I was SWOONING, big cheesin felt it in my heart, SWOONING (caught by my husband too 😂😅).
I cannot recommend this book enough.
“…it’s impossible not to fall in love with Barefoot Lake in fall.”
September 29, 2024
I was so lucky to receive an ARC of this book - thank you, Kim. <3
I stayed up until 2 am glued to this book & could not put it down. I was hooked from the beginning. My mother is a two-time cancer survivor, so while I couldn't fully relate to Alice's pain, I did connect with her story on a personal level (immediate tears and immediately drawn in). Watching Alice piece together her life and heal after her mother's passing & a crappy relationship was very touching.
Jake is the perfect neighbor-next-door, and I loved the depth of his character. As a fan of duel POV, I was surprised with how well it was done here. Wilcox Grove felt like a cozy escape, and Kim's attention to detail made me feel like I was right there with Alice, Jake, Grateful Bob, and everyone else at Barefoot Lake.
The detail was so so good in this story - I could see everything from the lake, right down to a cabinet in Alice's house.
I loved this book so much, that I've already ordered a physical copy as it deserves a permanent place on my bookshelf.
Thank you, Kim. I really loved your story. <3
I stayed up until 2 am glued to this book & could not put it down. I was hooked from the beginning. My mother is a two-time cancer survivor, so while I couldn't fully relate to Alice's pain, I did connect with her story on a personal level (immediate tears and immediately drawn in). Watching Alice piece together her life and heal after her mother's passing & a crappy relationship was very touching.
Jake is the perfect neighbor-next-door, and I loved the depth of his character. As a fan of duel POV, I was surprised with how well it was done here. Wilcox Grove felt like a cozy escape, and Kim's attention to detail made me feel like I was right there with Alice, Jake, Grateful Bob, and everyone else at Barefoot Lake.
The detail was so so good in this story - I could see everything from the lake, right down to a cabinet in Alice's house.
I loved this book so much, that I've already ordered a physical copy as it deserves a permanent place on my bookshelf.
Thank you, Kim. I really loved your story. <3
October 5, 2024
This book was perfect for my first book of fall! It was cozy and comfy and had me laughing and shedding just a few tears. This book is for anyone who found themselves a little bit in love with Luke Danes (even if they still consider themselves a Jess girl).
Jake is a grouchy loner who, try as he might, just couldn’t resist the charm and chaos of his new neighbor.
Alice was mourning the loss of her mother and a relationship that should have long been over and found herself and her comfort in a small town and a man who seems let let his walls down only for her.
Their chemistry and banter is off the charts and the side characters in this book add the perfect dose of humor. I honestly couldn’t tell you if I’m hoping the next book is her best friend or his brother (of both!)
Tropes:
Small town Romance
Starting over
Forced Proximity
Grumpy/Sunshine
(My favorite) Microtropes
*”f*ck it” moment
*Throws her over his shoulder
* He fights her terrible ex
* She says “oh god” and he responds “just me” 🥵🥵
Jake is a grouchy loner who, try as he might, just couldn’t resist the charm and chaos of his new neighbor.
Alice was mourning the loss of her mother and a relationship that should have long been over and found herself and her comfort in a small town and a man who seems let let his walls down only for her.
Their chemistry and banter is off the charts and the side characters in this book add the perfect dose of humor. I honestly couldn’t tell you if I’m hoping the next book is her best friend or his brother (of both!)
Tropes:
Small town Romance
Starting over
Forced Proximity
Grumpy/Sunshine
(My favorite) Microtropes
*”f*ck it” moment
*Throws her over his shoulder
* He fights her terrible ex
* She says “oh god” and he responds “just me” 🥵🥵
October 8, 2024
Barefoot lake is a book about a rare kind of love that's never to late to find
This book touched a special part of me. It reminded it me that it's never to late to start again or love again or to simply be okay to be vulnerable that the right person will not only understand but will be there holding you in those moments.
From the moment I met Alice I was In complete awe with her strength, resilience and sheer determination to sass the hell out of her grumpy/ hot neighbour Jake.
Jake will forever be one of my favourite book boyfriends. On the surface or atleast from Alice's perspective Jake is a grumpy troll ( her words not mine) but below the surface Jake is the kindest, most understanding man who has been dealt his own share of heartache.
Jake and Alice are two people who have had their fare share of heartache but despite their difficult pasts they find themselves drawn to eachother.
Watching them create a beautiful love that we all wish to feel was absolutely beautiful and the perfect way to spend my evenings.
This book touched a special part of me. It reminded it me that it's never to late to start again or love again or to simply be okay to be vulnerable that the right person will not only understand but will be there holding you in those moments.
From the moment I met Alice I was In complete awe with her strength, resilience and sheer determination to sass the hell out of her grumpy/ hot neighbour Jake.
Jake will forever be one of my favourite book boyfriends. On the surface or atleast from Alice's perspective Jake is a grumpy troll ( her words not mine) but below the surface Jake is the kindest, most understanding man who has been dealt his own share of heartache.
Jake and Alice are two people who have had their fare share of heartache but despite their difficult pasts they find themselves drawn to eachother.
Watching them create a beautiful love that we all wish to feel was absolutely beautiful and the perfect way to spend my evenings.
September 1, 2024
Where to even begin…Kim Swizz’s debut novel Barefoot Lake was absolutely brilliant! This story tugged at all my heartstrings, made me feel all the feels, but most importantly it made me feel all the giddy happiness while reading. I adore Alice and Jake so much! These characters drew me in immediately and never let me go. And a huge shoutout to the secondary characters too, they were phenomenal!! Kim Swizz made me feel like I was taking this journey along with Alice and Jake and I truly savored every moment of it. Feeling their highest of highs and their lowest of lows - but knowing they had each other and so many others for care and support was beautiful. Barefoot Lake is such a beautiful place, even if fictional, and I know I’ll be visiting frequently, returning to Alice, Jake and the crew whenever I need that burst of happiness and warmth.
September 29, 2025
I loved this book!! I love the grumpy sunshine trope, and the fall vibes are good too! This book got me so emotional at times due to the parental themes , and the writing style had me hooked! I finished it in about 2 days but I would have read it all in one sitting if I was given a chance! The main characters Jake and Alice are so sweet and I love their dynamic. I love seeing Jake go from grumpy neighbor to in love with our main girl and willing to do anything for her! The spice was spicy when it was included, and it was not too much! I loved how the spice was intergrated with the storyline and not just put there just to be there. I first met Kim when I saw her present at a panel at Fan Expo Boston, and I’m glad I was able to discover a local author! I’m looking forward to reading her other books!
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