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Heart of the Storm
Sometimes a storm is just what you need to clear the skies ahead.
When Amber Archer inherits a mysterious house from relatives she thought were long-dead, she sees it as her ticket out of the current chaos consuming her New York life. A little time out in the sticks can’t hurt, can it?
Nestled in the middle of nowhere is The Willows, the premier racing stables in Kentucky owned by Rowan Payton. Loss devastated her, and she doesn’t want to feel that way ever again. Her controlled and ordered life isn’t ready for the tornado of a city girl.
Their worlds collide when Rowan comes to Amber’s rescue, igniting a fierce attraction despite their stark differences and outlooks. But when Amber’s past crashes into her present and she has to make a choice between her heart and her head, will what they’ve built be strong enough to weather the storm?
When Amber Archer inherits a mysterious house from relatives she thought were long-dead, she sees it as her ticket out of the current chaos consuming her New York life. A little time out in the sticks can’t hurt, can it?
Nestled in the middle of nowhere is The Willows, the premier racing stables in Kentucky owned by Rowan Payton. Loss devastated her, and she doesn’t want to feel that way ever again. Her controlled and ordered life isn’t ready for the tornado of a city girl.
Their worlds collide when Rowan comes to Amber’s rescue, igniting a fierce attraction despite their stark differences and outlooks. But when Amber’s past crashes into her present and she has to make a choice between her heart and her head, will what they’ve built be strong enough to weather the storm?
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2024
156 people are currently reading
301 people want to read
About the author
Ally McGuire
14 books72 followersAward winning author ALLY MCGUIRE lives in the UK with her wife. Social media frightens the bejesus out of her, as does the human race generally. She writes WLW fiction to escape into the far more pleasant world in her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
May 15, 2025
3.5 stars!
Not great but still a readable story.. -- still trying to get a feel for whatever chemistry they should have...
Not great but still a readable story.. -- still trying to get a feel for whatever chemistry they should have...
November 2, 2024
This was surprisingly solid. I say "surprisingly" because I ended up DNF-ing McGuire's earlier book Where The Heart Leads - I remember finding it needlessly melodramatic. Heart Of Storm, though it has its own share of drama, didn't stretch out the conflict. I also like how the MCs' romantic relationship flowed organically; their chemistry leapt off the pages. After liking this thoroughly, I probably will revisit her other book and see about finishing it this time.
August 17, 2024
Powerful book with excellent, believable characters, goodies and baddies. Strong story line, through abuse upfront, well written and rightly harsh. Recommended.
October 3, 2024
3,5 - 4 ⭐️
June 24, 2024
Barely raised my head. One main is not likeable, at least her behaviour isn’t initially.
This book had enough to keep me very interested but I found the mother too bad. The author did explain her hold but for me she was just too much.
I liked the whole experience parallels and although the ending was very neatly wrapped up, I was happy with that.
This book had enough to keep me very interested but I found the mother too bad. The author did explain her hold but for me she was just too much.
I liked the whole experience parallels and although the ending was very neatly wrapped up, I was happy with that.
July 3, 2024
Lovely!
Rowan and Amber meet when Amber inherits a house from relatives she thought were long gone. Her arrival disrupts the peace of Rowan’s life and she finds herself coming to Amber’s rescue more than once.
Really enjoyed this! It was romance with all the drama of taking a city girl and putting her in a rural setting. Tension was high between Amber and Rowan from their first meeting, but as Amber came to terms with accepting help from Rowan as the better option that going it alone, they fell into this harmonious connection that was just lovely.
When Amber learned about all the good Rowan did for the community, I think she even surprised herself with how much she wanted to help, even if some of her actions were a bit impulsive and made situations temporarily difficult.
Rowan was such a wonderful person, despite Amber’s initial attitude, she still didn’t hesitate in helping her. That didn’t mean she let her emotions get the better of her. Despite being big hearted and kind, she was also reserved and wary because of her past, therefore she was holding back a lot where her sudden attraction and feelings for Amber occurred. It was completely understandable, but for someone who’d been hurt, I loved her spirit and determination to get the most from life and be happy.
A lovely romance with lots of dramatic moments, and some lovely cute, homey ones interwoven. I really enjoyed the story and hope there will be future stories for Amber and Rowan.
Rowan and Amber meet when Amber inherits a house from relatives she thought were long gone. Her arrival disrupts the peace of Rowan’s life and she finds herself coming to Amber’s rescue more than once.
Really enjoyed this! It was romance with all the drama of taking a city girl and putting her in a rural setting. Tension was high between Amber and Rowan from their first meeting, but as Amber came to terms with accepting help from Rowan as the better option that going it alone, they fell into this harmonious connection that was just lovely.
When Amber learned about all the good Rowan did for the community, I think she even surprised herself with how much she wanted to help, even if some of her actions were a bit impulsive and made situations temporarily difficult.
Rowan was such a wonderful person, despite Amber’s initial attitude, she still didn’t hesitate in helping her. That didn’t mean she let her emotions get the better of her. Despite being big hearted and kind, she was also reserved and wary because of her past, therefore she was holding back a lot where her sudden attraction and feelings for Amber occurred. It was completely understandable, but for someone who’d been hurt, I loved her spirit and determination to get the most from life and be happy.
A lovely romance with lots of dramatic moments, and some lovely cute, homey ones interwoven. I really enjoyed the story and hope there will be future stories for Amber and Rowan.
June 24, 2024
From the very beginning of "Heart of the Storm" by Ally McGuire, the enchanting dynamic between Amber and Rowan captivated me, in this opposites attract, slow burn romance. The story features an array of characters, all thoughtfully constructed, with a few capable of evoking powerful emotional responses.
A well-regarded figure in the community, Rowan Payton is a country girl who owns The Willows racing stables. Rowan is focused on her business and has no interest in pursuing a long-term relationship. The unexpected inheritance of the property next door came as a surprise to Amber Archer, who had always been a city person.
The narrative skilfully captures the essence of seeking solace and connection within a found family, and community, while simultaneously embarking on a journey of self-exploration. As I come to expect with Ally McGuire, the pacing of the book is excellent, a very enjoyable and memorable read.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
A well-regarded figure in the community, Rowan Payton is a country girl who owns The Willows racing stables. Rowan is focused on her business and has no interest in pursuing a long-term relationship. The unexpected inheritance of the property next door came as a surprise to Amber Archer, who had always been a city person.
The narrative skilfully captures the essence of seeking solace and connection within a found family, and community, while simultaneously embarking on a journey of self-exploration. As I come to expect with Ally McGuire, the pacing of the book is excellent, a very enjoyable and memorable read.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
May 25, 2024
Intriging story with some interesting theme's. Well written characters with humor and sometimes the more human side of people.
May 14, 2025
4.5 stars 🌟
Give me all the sapphic cowgirls!! Might be my new favourite genre! I really enjoyed this book. City girl and country girl. Highly recommend this one!
Written in third person with 2x POV’s. Ice Queen, butch/femme, return to hometown, slow burn, starting over, opposites attract. 3x spicy scenes (first one has minimal description). Audiobook narrated by Anastasia Watley.
Give me all the sapphic cowgirls!! Might be my new favourite genre! I really enjoyed this book. City girl and country girl. Highly recommend this one!
Written in third person with 2x POV’s. Ice Queen, butch/femme, return to hometown, slow burn, starting over, opposites attract. 3x spicy scenes (first one has minimal description). Audiobook narrated by Anastasia Watley.
June 27, 2024
Amber is a big city girl. When she receives an inheritance from relatives, she thought dead. She heads for the middle of nowhere, Kentucky. There she meets the owner of the property next door. And heads collide. Ally does a great job with both main characters. Well fleshed out. The side characters bring so much to the story. Most are wonderful, but there is a villain to dislike. I really enjoyed the book. I got into the flow, and it pulled me along. If you love strong women and horses, you will love this book. Highly recommend.
August 29, 2024
Lovely short read, with a nice bit of drama and well-developed characters, who really come out of their shell - and nice bit of spicy ;)
June 1, 2025
I loved it.
Life-altering changes are not easy to make, especially with the kind of mental trauma Amber had. It takes a lot of strength to do that, and I admired Amber for it. Rowan gave her the support and love she needed to make the change happen. A very pleasant city-girl-meets-cowgirl small-town sapphic romance.
Life-altering changes are not easy to make, especially with the kind of mental trauma Amber had. It takes a lot of strength to do that, and I admired Amber for it. Rowan gave her the support and love she needed to make the change happen. A very pleasant city-girl-meets-cowgirl small-town sapphic romance.
August 4, 2025
someone protect my sweet child amber
July 5, 2024
Excellent plot development.
April 3, 2025
Oh my GOD I ate this shit up. Actually the author ate and left no crumbs, as the kids say 💅🏼
let's go lesbian cowboys ♥️
let's go lesbian cowboys ♥️
Read
December 9, 2025Dnf. Didn’t make it further than the first few chapters. Amber’s character is too cliché. Even city girls understand to bring sturdy shoes to the countryside. If they don’t, they’re dumb and I can’t get behind a MC who lacks intelligence. It just put me off the story altogether.
June 20, 2024
Ally McGuire ain't no dark horse. Heart of the Storm is another surefire winner; a galloping front-runner from the first page, this story absolutely goes the distance.
This is one of the strongest opposites attract romance stories I've come across. The main characters, their backgrounds, and their day-to-day lives could not be more different. So much so that at some points it's hard to foresee them being a good fit, and yet like bacon and maple syrup they somehow wind up working in all the right ways!
Amber Archer is a high-flying New Yorker whose life has descended into chaos and misery. With little hope of things improving, she sees no choice but to escape to Kentucky, where an inheritance she knew nothing about (and a ruggedly handsome cowboy) awaits her. Rowan Payton is the owner of The Willows, a leading racing stables and her pride and joy. Order and control are the staples of Rowan's day-to-day existence, neither of which allow much room for the whirling storm that is Amber Archer's arrival in town.
I do relish a great Ice Queen trope, and Amber's character doesn't disappoint. Outwardly aloof, with an 'I don't give a crap attitude', yet inwardly collapsing under the weight of her own and other's expectations and demands, she is the epitome of fake it until you make it. Her unsure footing with purported friend Craig Caswell candidly highlights the extent of her self-doubt and insecurities.
The combination of city dweller vs small-town cowboy is diametric. Rowan and Amber might be poles apart in many things, including their upbringings and world view, but hell, if there isn't a line of pent-up lust ping-ponging back and forth between them. This is a slow burn which will freakin' kill you! Sexual tension abounds!
The writing is superb, it flows well with plenty of loveable, and a few love-to-hate secondary characters that really do add value to the story. Rowan's buddy Pam is an awesome sounding board for Rowan and the rapport they have together is caringly humorous.
Together all the characters cement the underlying theme of chosen and found family; something I have a deep affection for in books.
I adore McGuire's writing voice, but I honestly wasn't sure how much I'd enjoy her latest release as I'm not a huge romance or horse lover. What sold this book for me is that you are drawn into discovering more about Rowan and Amber as individual people. I wanted to know what made them tick, what they struggled with, could they move past the past? And this is where Ally McGuire always excels no matter the genre or content. She unequivocally knows how to rake every last morsel of investment from readers, ensuring they get the utmost joy as they channel it into the characters of Heart of the Storm. Characters which are layered, complex, and with a depth that is becoming a hallmark of any story that McGuire pens.
As expected for a Sapphic romance there's a HEA for Rowan and Amber, but I also felt there's an individual HFN for each of them when it comes to their personal and emotional baggage. An acknowledgement that yes, they're in love, they're happy, but they also have their own stuff to continue working on that doesn't just evaporate at the sight of hot sex, lust, or love. I'd gladly follow Rowan and Amber's story further for this reason.
You can't help but want more stories from Ally McGuire. And that is how every exceptional book should leave a reader feeling. Bravo! Encore! Please!
This is one of the strongest opposites attract romance stories I've come across. The main characters, their backgrounds, and their day-to-day lives could not be more different. So much so that at some points it's hard to foresee them being a good fit, and yet like bacon and maple syrup they somehow wind up working in all the right ways!
Amber Archer is a high-flying New Yorker whose life has descended into chaos and misery. With little hope of things improving, she sees no choice but to escape to Kentucky, where an inheritance she knew nothing about (and a ruggedly handsome cowboy) awaits her. Rowan Payton is the owner of The Willows, a leading racing stables and her pride and joy. Order and control are the staples of Rowan's day-to-day existence, neither of which allow much room for the whirling storm that is Amber Archer's arrival in town.
I do relish a great Ice Queen trope, and Amber's character doesn't disappoint. Outwardly aloof, with an 'I don't give a crap attitude', yet inwardly collapsing under the weight of her own and other's expectations and demands, she is the epitome of fake it until you make it. Her unsure footing with purported friend Craig Caswell candidly highlights the extent of her self-doubt and insecurities.
The combination of city dweller vs small-town cowboy is diametric. Rowan and Amber might be poles apart in many things, including their upbringings and world view, but hell, if there isn't a line of pent-up lust ping-ponging back and forth between them. This is a slow burn which will freakin' kill you! Sexual tension abounds!
The writing is superb, it flows well with plenty of loveable, and a few love-to-hate secondary characters that really do add value to the story. Rowan's buddy Pam is an awesome sounding board for Rowan and the rapport they have together is caringly humorous.
Together all the characters cement the underlying theme of chosen and found family; something I have a deep affection for in books.
I adore McGuire's writing voice, but I honestly wasn't sure how much I'd enjoy her latest release as I'm not a huge romance or horse lover. What sold this book for me is that you are drawn into discovering more about Rowan and Amber as individual people. I wanted to know what made them tick, what they struggled with, could they move past the past? And this is where Ally McGuire always excels no matter the genre or content. She unequivocally knows how to rake every last morsel of investment from readers, ensuring they get the utmost joy as they channel it into the characters of Heart of the Storm. Characters which are layered, complex, and with a depth that is becoming a hallmark of any story that McGuire pens.
As expected for a Sapphic romance there's a HEA for Rowan and Amber, but I also felt there's an individual HFN for each of them when it comes to their personal and emotional baggage. An acknowledgement that yes, they're in love, they're happy, but they also have their own stuff to continue working on that doesn't just evaporate at the sight of hot sex, lust, or love. I'd gladly follow Rowan and Amber's story further for this reason.
You can't help but want more stories from Ally McGuire. And that is how every exceptional book should leave a reader feeling. Bravo! Encore! Please!
June 25, 2024
Ally McGuire does not disappoint! In her 3rd novel, we get yet another delightful exploration of interesting characters and challenging situations that eventually lead us to the HEA we crave.
Amber is a quintessential NYC girl who has hit some snags in the city and when she inherits a house in Kentucky she jumps at the chance to take a breath and go out to deal with it (meaning to sell it). She is almost a caricature of what a fish out of water New Yorker would be like in Kentucky in the beginning. But her cracks begin to show pretty early and as we get to know her, we understand her insecurities that cause her to keep everyone at arm's length with cutting remarks. And her mother is a piece of work and has done a number on her self-esteem.
Rowan is the owner of the most prestigious race horse stable (plus livestock farmer) and has an ordered, if dry, world that she has built up since her parents died and left the ranch to her. She is as stable as Amber is not, but they are equally as closed off to love for different reasons. The sexual energy that sparks between them is immediate and the flirting is off the charts even though this is probably most accurately characterized as a slow burn.
One of the things I love about McGuire’s writing is the character development. Both women are complicated creatures, slow to show their soft underbellies and share their trauma. But the depth is there and she slowly shows us what all of their most human reactions are in response to and it’s a beautiful journey. The side characters also deserve a mention - there were many characters in the middle of nowhere Kentucky town that really made it - Rowan’s friend Pam, Cornelious the lawyer, Fran from the diner….and Amber’s bestie Craig turned out to be a surprising delight.
I received an advance review copy for free from the author and Butterworth Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Amber is a quintessential NYC girl who has hit some snags in the city and when she inherits a house in Kentucky she jumps at the chance to take a breath and go out to deal with it (meaning to sell it). She is almost a caricature of what a fish out of water New Yorker would be like in Kentucky in the beginning. But her cracks begin to show pretty early and as we get to know her, we understand her insecurities that cause her to keep everyone at arm's length with cutting remarks. And her mother is a piece of work and has done a number on her self-esteem.
Rowan is the owner of the most prestigious race horse stable (plus livestock farmer) and has an ordered, if dry, world that she has built up since her parents died and left the ranch to her. She is as stable as Amber is not, but they are equally as closed off to love for different reasons. The sexual energy that sparks between them is immediate and the flirting is off the charts even though this is probably most accurately characterized as a slow burn.
One of the things I love about McGuire’s writing is the character development. Both women are complicated creatures, slow to show their soft underbellies and share their trauma. But the depth is there and she slowly shows us what all of their most human reactions are in response to and it’s a beautiful journey. The side characters also deserve a mention - there were many characters in the middle of nowhere Kentucky town that really made it - Rowan’s friend Pam, Cornelious the lawyer, Fran from the diner….and Amber’s bestie Craig turned out to be a surprising delight.
I received an advance review copy for free from the author and Butterworth Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 22, 2025
Heart of the Storm by Ally McGuire is a heartfelt story set in rural Kentucky, with a rich cast of characters and an engaging plot. Amber, a bold and outspoken city girl, unexpectedly inherits a farmhouse from grandparents she never knew—and she’s wholly unprepared for what she finds. Thankfully, the warm-hearted townspeople, especially Rowan, step in to help. When Amber’s farmhouse becomes unlivable due to renovations, Rowan offers her a place to stay. At first, the two seem worlds apart, but as their layers peel back, a deep friendship forms and gradually blossoms into something more. While their chemistry didn’t always leap off the page for me, their care for one another was undeniable. The supporting cast adds dimension and helps the story unfold in meaningful ways. Slow burns aren’t usually my thing, but in this case, it really suits the narrative.
Anastasia Watley delivers a standout performance, truly elevating the audiobook experience. She gives each character a believable voice, making it easy to stay immersed in the story and follow along with the dialogue. Her narration brings out the emotional depth of the story—from quiet introspection to moments of tension and connection—without ever feeling overdone. Watley’s pacing and tone are perfectly tuned to the rhythm of the book, allowing the slow-burn romance to breathe and land with impact.
This story may take its time, but its emotional payoff feels earned. With richly drawn characters, a meaningful sense of place, and a narration that brings every moment to life, Heart of the Storm is a tender, satisfying listen.
Anastasia Watley delivers a standout performance, truly elevating the audiobook experience. She gives each character a believable voice, making it easy to stay immersed in the story and follow along with the dialogue. Her narration brings out the emotional depth of the story—from quiet introspection to moments of tension and connection—without ever feeling overdone. Watley’s pacing and tone are perfectly tuned to the rhythm of the book, allowing the slow-burn romance to breathe and land with impact.
This story may take its time, but its emotional payoff feels earned. With richly drawn characters, a meaningful sense of place, and a narration that brings every moment to life, Heart of the Storm is a tender, satisfying listen.
June 25, 2024
This latest offering from Ally McGuire has all the makings of a personal favourite - and it did not disappoint! The strength of this story, for me, lies in the effortless way that the author built out an entire cast of characters that I was invested in - from the two MCs with their complex backgrounds and terrific personal arcs, to the minor characters who all bring something meaningful to the overall story. McGuire is masterful at setting a scene that feels familiar, yet doesn't feel tired or boring.
The romance arc of the plot in this book is almost secondary to the wider plot, but is still worthy of reading all on its own. Because both of the MCs bring emotional baggage to the story, there is definitely some angst, but despite that, I found myself rooting for them the whole way through. Both characters are likeable, genuine and, by the end of the book, felt like they could have been friends. It helps if you have a soft spot for farm girls and cowgirls, or if you're fond of ice queens, but even without those leanings, you will find yourself hoping that Amber and Rowan both get the HEA they deserve.
It feels like McGuire could use this book to launch a series around these characters and their friends/neighbours, though the book reads very well as a standalone. She introduced enough of the supporting cast that several of them could read well as MCs in their own right, and if she takes that path, I'm already sold. A great read that I found difficult to put down and even more difficult to leave behind when it was done.
The romance arc of the plot in this book is almost secondary to the wider plot, but is still worthy of reading all on its own. Because both of the MCs bring emotional baggage to the story, there is definitely some angst, but despite that, I found myself rooting for them the whole way through. Both characters are likeable, genuine and, by the end of the book, felt like they could have been friends. It helps if you have a soft spot for farm girls and cowgirls, or if you're fond of ice queens, but even without those leanings, you will find yourself hoping that Amber and Rowan both get the HEA they deserve.
It feels like McGuire could use this book to launch a series around these characters and their friends/neighbours, though the book reads very well as a standalone. She introduced enough of the supporting cast that several of them could read well as MCs in their own right, and if she takes that path, I'm already sold. A great read that I found difficult to put down and even more difficult to leave behind when it was done.
July 10, 2024
SIGH! How good was this!! I almost read this ina single 7hr sitting but alas I had to be a responsible adult and sleep, having to be at work.
Ally Mcguire just keeps getting better and better, she really does. She manages to create so much depth in her writing. I love how there are always parts that I can relate to in her chatacters as well. Being able to relate in some way with characters helps you understand them so much more I think. Whatbwas surprising with this book was I was able to do this with both Amber and Rowan. Usually it's more 1 MC than the other. Such a welcome bonus for me.
These 2 went on sich a journey. Well more like a rollercoaster without safety bars and just for fun lets throw in a huge storm oh and not to forget a great hurricane! It was sweet and tender 1 minute, tense and dramatic the next. I swear I may have whiplash but who cares I was there for every second of it!
Now, I do have to mention Ambers 'Mother'! I personally think it's a testament to the talents of an author (yes you, Ally Mcguire!) that they can create such strong thoughts and feelings on a subject with so few words. Ambers mother can hardly be called a side character she says so little and makes even fewer appearances but her influence on the story is huge. I absolutely deteste her!! She is a viscious, ugly human being and the worst part is she has no real reason to be that way. Ugh!
To round it all up this book really did have it all, wonderfully writen piece of work and I can praise it enough. Can't wait for what Ally Mcguire Brings us next.
Ally Mcguire just keeps getting better and better, she really does. She manages to create so much depth in her writing. I love how there are always parts that I can relate to in her chatacters as well. Being able to relate in some way with characters helps you understand them so much more I think. Whatbwas surprising with this book was I was able to do this with both Amber and Rowan. Usually it's more 1 MC than the other. Such a welcome bonus for me.
These 2 went on sich a journey. Well more like a rollercoaster without safety bars and just for fun lets throw in a huge storm oh and not to forget a great hurricane! It was sweet and tender 1 minute, tense and dramatic the next. I swear I may have whiplash but who cares I was there for every second of it!
Now, I do have to mention Ambers 'Mother'! I personally think it's a testament to the talents of an author (yes you, Ally Mcguire!) that they can create such strong thoughts and feelings on a subject with so few words. Ambers mother can hardly be called a side character she says so little and makes even fewer appearances but her influence on the story is huge. I absolutely deteste her!! She is a viscious, ugly human being and the worst part is she has no real reason to be that way. Ugh!
To round it all up this book really did have it all, wonderfully writen piece of work and I can praise it enough. Can't wait for what Ally Mcguire Brings us next.
May 27, 2025
my first western romance as I don’t tend to gravitate towards them, but I was not disappointed!
the tension between the two MC’s was palpable, how could it not be when a big city prima donna meets a small town cowgirl. i do wish the path to romancing each other was flushed out a bit more as I felt like it escalated from banter to hard core flirting very fast on page.
the small town dynamics were a breath of fresh air especially in today’s political climate where it feels like small country town immediately equals unsafe for queer folks. there was no homophobia present for any of the queer characters in this Kentucky town and at the end of the day they simply showed up for everyone in the community. it made me wonder how much hatred would disappear if we all got involved in our local communities a bit more.
by the end of the book I was ready to fly to Kentucky and punch amber’s mom in the face. I could see how people who have never experienced a parent with narcissistic tendencies could think it wasn’t the strongest plot point, but having seen how that specific trauma roots itself deep within a person it was very accurate to have Amber still living for her mom at 40 years old. again, i only wish things were a little more flushed out on page.
overall a strong romance filled with tension, heart warming inner workings of a small town, and a girl from NYC just trying to find a place in this big world.
the tension between the two MC’s was palpable, how could it not be when a big city prima donna meets a small town cowgirl. i do wish the path to romancing each other was flushed out a bit more as I felt like it escalated from banter to hard core flirting very fast on page.
the small town dynamics were a breath of fresh air especially in today’s political climate where it feels like small country town immediately equals unsafe for queer folks. there was no homophobia present for any of the queer characters in this Kentucky town and at the end of the day they simply showed up for everyone in the community. it made me wonder how much hatred would disappear if we all got involved in our local communities a bit more.
by the end of the book I was ready to fly to Kentucky and punch amber’s mom in the face. I could see how people who have never experienced a parent with narcissistic tendencies could think it wasn’t the strongest plot point, but having seen how that specific trauma roots itself deep within a person it was very accurate to have Amber still living for her mom at 40 years old. again, i only wish things were a little more flushed out on page.
overall a strong romance filled with tension, heart warming inner workings of a small town, and a girl from NYC just trying to find a place in this big world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2024
Heart of the Storm by Ally McGuire is an enthralling romance.
When New York city girl Amber Archer unexpectedly inherits a house in Kentucky, she seizes the opportunity to take a break from the city for a while. It doesn’t take long for her to run into her next-door neighbor and racing stable owner, Rowan Payton.
Ally McGuire created two main characters, that are beautifully complex and flawed just like a real human being but are also instantly relatable to the reader. Personal history and experiences influence both characters and create friction and dislike, despite the instant spark they have when they meet.
The book has a great and interesting cast of primary and secondary characters that pull you into the story and make you feel for everyone of them. The writing is incredibly deep and well thought out. This is a heartwarming, opposites attract story, that shows that family aren’t the people who brought you into the world but the people who you choose to share your life with.
This book is beautiful and sweet and pulled me in so completely that I forgot time and space while I read it. I love Ally McGuire’s writing, and I can’t wait to see what she’ll write next.
When New York city girl Amber Archer unexpectedly inherits a house in Kentucky, she seizes the opportunity to take a break from the city for a while. It doesn’t take long for her to run into her next-door neighbor and racing stable owner, Rowan Payton.
Ally McGuire created two main characters, that are beautifully complex and flawed just like a real human being but are also instantly relatable to the reader. Personal history and experiences influence both characters and create friction and dislike, despite the instant spark they have when they meet.
The book has a great and interesting cast of primary and secondary characters that pull you into the story and make you feel for everyone of them. The writing is incredibly deep and well thought out. This is a heartwarming, opposites attract story, that shows that family aren’t the people who brought you into the world but the people who you choose to share your life with.
This book is beautiful and sweet and pulled me in so completely that I forgot time and space while I read it. I love Ally McGuire’s writing, and I can’t wait to see what she’ll write next.
June 19, 2024
Another excellent read from the pen of Ally McGuire, one that will get you into the thick of things very quickly.
I love that by the end of the first chapter we have such a good idea of the character of Amber Archer and how her well-ordered city world quickly disappears in the Kentucky countryside. She has problems, her world is not as we expect and the story reveals her character it goes along, and as her world collides with Rowan Payton’s cowboy. Rowan is confident, hardworking and has a number of her own issues. These become apparent as she and Amber lock horns. I love the chemistry between them and how their story progresses.
Rowans sidekick Pam deserves a special mention as she provides an interesting foil to Rowan and has a black and white view of the world.
As always there are superb moments where Ally McGuire presents events that leave me snorting with mirth. The first is at the start with the story of the car keys and coffee. You’ll need to read it yourself to get the full benefit.
I’ve been waiting for this book, and it doesn’t disappoint. I’m on my second reading already!
I love that by the end of the first chapter we have such a good idea of the character of Amber Archer and how her well-ordered city world quickly disappears in the Kentucky countryside. She has problems, her world is not as we expect and the story reveals her character it goes along, and as her world collides with Rowan Payton’s cowboy. Rowan is confident, hardworking and has a number of her own issues. These become apparent as she and Amber lock horns. I love the chemistry between them and how their story progresses.
Rowans sidekick Pam deserves a special mention as she provides an interesting foil to Rowan and has a black and white view of the world.
As always there are superb moments where Ally McGuire presents events that leave me snorting with mirth. The first is at the start with the story of the car keys and coffee. You’ll need to read it yourself to get the full benefit.
I’ve been waiting for this book, and it doesn’t disappoint. I’m on my second reading already!
March 21, 2025
A beautiful story of finding the truth of your worth with the support and encourage of your friends, new and old. Ally McGuire has written a gorgeous story about Amber Archer who has grown up in New York under the abusive thumb of her mother who has controlled almost every aspect of her life. She has no self-confidence and doesn't believe that she is good enough to deserve happiness. However, when she inherits a mysterious house from her grandparents, who she had previously believed were long dead, she is introduced to a whole new world in rural Kentucky, and the orbit of Rowan Payton, owner of the racing stables next door to the property now owned by Amber.
The end result of the collision of two very different worlds, an extraordinary attraction and the opportunity for Amber to escape the clutches of her narcissistic mother....if only she can find the inner strength to stand up for her own happiness.
Thank you Ally for a wonderful story of self-discovery and finding ones self-worth and future joy which is beautifully narrated by Anastasia Watley.
The end result of the collision of two very different worlds, an extraordinary attraction and the opportunity for Amber to escape the clutches of her narcissistic mother....if only she can find the inner strength to stand up for her own happiness.
Thank you Ally for a wonderful story of self-discovery and finding ones self-worth and future joy which is beautifully narrated by Anastasia Watley.
December 29, 2025
It was an okay but strange read: there were the elements of a great book, but it didn't materialize because some parts were like caricatures (the Villains and the Good Guys), some didn't make sense (was it a tornado or a storm?; I don't think that Jess, a high schooler, would be allowed to spend a day at the mall with an adult stranger), and some were too convenient: the MCs met each time because Amber had to be rescued from extreme weather.
I liked the rural setting and the dynamics between the MCs: the meeting of two lonely souls with trauma that prevented their bonding. I feared that they would 'trauma bond' or that Rowan would replace Amber's mother in a dependent relationship, but no, it was more nuanced: they both worked through their trauma to allow their relationship to grow. However, I would have liked more time spent on showing how the MCs worked through their 'baggage', in particular how Amber found the strength to oppose her mother.
All this created mixed feelings: I wanted to connect to the story, but the contrived circumstances made it hard to suspend my disbelief.
I liked the rural setting and the dynamics between the MCs: the meeting of two lonely souls with trauma that prevented their bonding. I feared that they would 'trauma bond' or that Rowan would replace Amber's mother in a dependent relationship, but no, it was more nuanced: they both worked through their trauma to allow their relationship to grow. However, I would have liked more time spent on showing how the MCs worked through their 'baggage', in particular how Amber found the strength to oppose her mother.
All this created mixed feelings: I wanted to connect to the story, but the contrived circumstances made it hard to suspend my disbelief.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2024
What a wonderfully written book, from the first paragraph I was hooked on the story.
The collision of two people from different worlds and upbringings. The rush of electric attraction while not actually seeming to like each other initially! The MCs navigate the hurdles facing them and their developing relationship due to the created by the influences and experiences they have each experienced in their lives. We read about the importance of friends and ‘chosen’ family - the book has some great supporting characters and a couple to rail against!!
A great story with love, lust, angst and fun - what more can you ask for from a book. I’m not one to hand out 5 stars easily but I definitely think this one deserves it.
Thanks to Butterworth Books for providing the ARC. This is my honest opinion of the book.
June 27, 2024
One of the things I love about Ally McGuire’s writing is the character development. Both women, Rowan and Amber are complicated creatures, slow to show their soft sides and vulnerabilities and share their trauma. It’s a beautiful journey of discovery and sharing. A fish out of water, Amber, a New York City girl, finds herself in rural Kentucky where Rowan, a rancher of race horses comes to her rescue and sparks fly. Neither one is looking for love, but of course, that is when it rears up to bite you.
The side characters also deserve a mention - there were many characters in the middle of nowhere Kentucky town that really made it an additional delight - Rowan’s friend Pam, Cornelius the lawyer, Fran from the diner….and Amber’s best friend Craig.
Ally McGuire continues to give us compelling characters, well written stories and fun reads, especially for the summer.
The side characters also deserve a mention - there were many characters in the middle of nowhere Kentucky town that really made it an additional delight - Rowan’s friend Pam, Cornelius the lawyer, Fran from the diner….and Amber’s best friend Craig.
Ally McGuire continues to give us compelling characters, well written stories and fun reads, especially for the summer.
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