What do you think?
Rate this book
Stars in the Desert #1
Indigo Off the Grid
I never thought I’d wake up like this—in the back of a van, in the middle of the desert, wearing an evening gown.
The dress worked at my mom’s cocktail party last night. Then I found out I went viral in a way that could destroy my career as a beauty and lifestyle influencer. Maybe I’m not perfectly beautiful, but one thing I’ve perfected is running away. So I borrowed an ugly green van and did just that.
Until yesterday, my followers thought I was gorgeous, confident, and capable. I wish they’d tell that to the scorpion that got me, or the Superman lookalike, Joe, who rescued me from said scorpion. He gave me a temporary job as a hiking guide, but I should probably tell him I’m about as indoorsy as a girl can get. And I should probably stay away from him and his charming, shirtless self since I can’t hide in this dreamy desert town forever.
But the longer I spend around the sandstone cliffs and Joe’s chocolate eyes, the less I want to go back to my old life. I’m about to learn that there’s more to Indigo Fox than a pretty face and more to life than my follower count.
The dress worked at my mom’s cocktail party last night. Then I found out I went viral in a way that could destroy my career as a beauty and lifestyle influencer. Maybe I’m not perfectly beautiful, but one thing I’ve perfected is running away. So I borrowed an ugly green van and did just that.
Until yesterday, my followers thought I was gorgeous, confident, and capable. I wish they’d tell that to the scorpion that got me, or the Superman lookalike, Joe, who rescued me from said scorpion. He gave me a temporary job as a hiking guide, but I should probably tell him I’m about as indoorsy as a girl can get. And I should probably stay away from him and his charming, shirtless self since I can’t hide in this dreamy desert town forever.
But the longer I spend around the sandstone cliffs and Joe’s chocolate eyes, the less I want to go back to my old life. I’m about to learn that there’s more to Indigo Fox than a pretty face and more to life than my follower count.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2024
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
January 26, 2026
Indigo Off the Grid is everything I love about her books—clean/closed-door romance, excellent pacing, lovable characters, and a setting that feels vivid and immersive. Honestly, I can’t say enough good things about her writing. I’ve read everything she’s written, and this one fits perfectly among my favorites.
Indigo is such a fun, relatable fish-out-of-water heroine. Watching a beauty and lifestyle influencer crash-land—literally and emotionally—into desert life was equal parts funny and heartfelt. Her growth felt natural and earned, and I loved seeing her discover who she is beyond the filtered version of herself. Joe is the perfect counterpart: steady, kind, quietly swoony, and impossible not to love.
The romance is sweet and well-timed, with just the right amount of tension and charm. Elise Haynes excels at writing closed-door romance that never feels lacking—the emotional connection is strong, the moments are meaningful, and the payoff is deeply satisfying. The desert setting and small-town vibes added so much atmosphere and warmth to the story.
This book made me laugh, smile, and slow down with it in the best way. If you enjoy clean romantic comedies with heart, humor, and characters you truly care about, Indigo Off the Grid is a must-read. I’m already eager for the rest of the series—and as always, I’ll be reading anything Elise Haynes writes. 🌵💛📚
Indigo is such a fun, relatable fish-out-of-water heroine. Watching a beauty and lifestyle influencer crash-land—literally and emotionally—into desert life was equal parts funny and heartfelt. Her growth felt natural and earned, and I loved seeing her discover who she is beyond the filtered version of herself. Joe is the perfect counterpart: steady, kind, quietly swoony, and impossible not to love.
The romance is sweet and well-timed, with just the right amount of tension and charm. Elise Haynes excels at writing closed-door romance that never feels lacking—the emotional connection is strong, the moments are meaningful, and the payoff is deeply satisfying. The desert setting and small-town vibes added so much atmosphere and warmth to the story.
This book made me laugh, smile, and slow down with it in the best way. If you enjoy clean romantic comedies with heart, humor, and characters you truly care about, Indigo Off the Grid is a must-read. I’m already eager for the rest of the series—and as always, I’ll be reading anything Elise Haynes writes. 🌵💛📚
May 6, 2025
“𝑻𝒓𝒖𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒚 𝒊𝒔 𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒑𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒕 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒖𝒑. 𝒀𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒅. 𝑰 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝑰'𝒎 𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒂 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍."
One thing’s for sure: Elise Haynes can write a mean romcom, absolutely packed full of hilarity and snark! I finally got around to reading the first book in this series after having read arcs of the other three books, and honestly, it was rather fun reading this one last 😄 Coming back to the beginning of a fantastic series feels like coming home again!
Ugh…Indie & Joe were so adorably awkward together—I loved it! The way Joe took care of Indie absolutely melted my heart 🫠 These two were one of those couples that had an instant connection, and while that’s not my favorite trope, I really enjoyed this rollicking romcom! Indie & Joe had some of the funniest moments together, and I think everyone should read their story 😁
Indie’s mom was the literal worst, and I loved that Sarah stepped up as the loving mother figure that Indie so desperately needed in her life ♥️ Their relationship was so incredibly sweet, and I’m so happy that Indie was able to find friends and “family” with Mercer and the Pratts.
Okay, that was so much fun watching the beginning of Sunny, Mercer, and Indie’s friendship trio! Those girls are the literal best and such a hoot! I’m sad to finally be done reading about them, but at least I can always reread their fantastic stories if I get a hankering for one of their riotous escapades!
Top Moments:
🥾 Indulging in sugar
🥾 The Hulk—aka green van
🥾 Billy Joel in the desert
🥾 Stolen shower
🥾 Blobfish blabber
🥾 Undie-gate
🥾 Makeover w/ the gals
🥾 Potato peeling
🥾 Playing Girl Talk
🥾 “I have a thing for you in pink.”
🥾 Campfires
🥾 Unicorn death powder
🥾 JP + IF
One thing’s for sure: Elise Haynes can write a mean romcom, absolutely packed full of hilarity and snark! I finally got around to reading the first book in this series after having read arcs of the other three books, and honestly, it was rather fun reading this one last 😄 Coming back to the beginning of a fantastic series feels like coming home again!
Ugh…Indie & Joe were so adorably awkward together—I loved it! The way Joe took care of Indie absolutely melted my heart 🫠 These two were one of those couples that had an instant connection, and while that’s not my favorite trope, I really enjoyed this rollicking romcom! Indie & Joe had some of the funniest moments together, and I think everyone should read their story 😁
Indie’s mom was the literal worst, and I loved that Sarah stepped up as the loving mother figure that Indie so desperately needed in her life ♥️ Their relationship was so incredibly sweet, and I’m so happy that Indie was able to find friends and “family” with Mercer and the Pratts.
Okay, that was so much fun watching the beginning of Sunny, Mercer, and Indie’s friendship trio! Those girls are the literal best and such a hoot! I’m sad to finally be done reading about them, but at least I can always reread their fantastic stories if I get a hankering for one of their riotous escapades!
Top Moments:
🥾 Indulging in sugar
🥾 The Hulk—aka green van
🥾 Billy Joel in the desert
🥾 Stolen shower
🥾 Blobfish blabber
🥾 Undie-gate
🥾 Makeover w/ the gals
🥾 Potato peeling
🥾 Playing Girl Talk
🥾 “I have a thing for you in pink.”
🥾 Campfires
🥾 Unicorn death powder
🥾 JP + IF
September 23, 2025
Indigo Fox has run away from home. After an embarrassing photo goes viral online, social media influencer Indie drives to the desert of southern Utah to escape. But even though she finds new friends -- as well as the incredibly handsome Joe Pratt -- she can't run away from her problems forever.
Cute romcom with cinnamon roll and found family tropes. The romance is pretty straightforward, but Indie's complicated career and family dynamics brings this a little more depth (which I liked). I enjoyed the southern Utah setting a lot!
No spice. No language.
Cute romcom with cinnamon roll and found family tropes. The romance is pretty straightforward, but Indie's complicated career and family dynamics brings this a little more depth (which I liked). I enjoyed the southern Utah setting a lot!
No spice. No language.
April 10, 2026
So cute!! When I finished, I immediately started book two. It’s as adorable as the cover 😍. A true romcom — really funny with SWOONY romance. I’m impressed that this is a debut and I’m excited to discover more from this author.
🔥Kisses only
No language
🔥Kisses only
No language
January 13, 2026
Indigo Off the Grid by Elise Haynes Review
Indigo Off the Grid by Elise Haynes is a delightful, clean romantic comedy and the first book in the Stars in the Desert series. The story introduces Indigo Fox, a beauty and lifestyle influencer whose perfectly curated online persona crashes spectacularly when a viral moment threatens to destroy her career. Wanting nothing more than to escape the spotlight and her own insecurities, she disappears into the desert in a borrowed, less-than-stylish green van and ends up rescued by Joe, a ruggedly charming hiking guide with warm chocolate-brown eyes and a laid-back attitude that feels worlds away from her influencer life. What begins as survival in the wild turns into unexpected friendship, and as Indigo settles into the slower rhythms of desert life, she begins to question what truly matters to her, especially as her feelings for Joe deepen under sandstone skies and wide-open horizons.
As I wandered with Indigo through dusty trails and awkward moments far from wifi, I felt swept up in her journey of self-discovery and surrendering to vulnerability, which made me genuinely care about her beyond the perfectly curated social posts she once relied on. What charmed me most was how Haynes blends humor, fish-out-of-water awkwardness, and unexpected tenderness: Indigo’s inner monologue had me smiling as she wrestled with scorpions, self-doubt, and Joe’s quiet strength, and moments of genuine connection between them felt grounded and warm without ever being rushed.
Joe’s calm confidence and steady support revealed a contrast to Indigo’s previous chaos that was both soothing and emotionally satisfying. While the story leans into lightheartedness with its romantic comedy vibe, I appreciated how it also explored deeper questions of identity, worth, and what it means to choose a life worth living beyond followers and filters. Indigo Off the Grid left me smiling, feeling uplifted by its sincere characters and its cozy desert setting where love feels possible when you learn to let go of who you thought you had to be.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Because its sweet humor and heartfelt emotional growth gave me a genuinely uplifting, feel-good romance.
Indigo Off the Grid by Elise Haynes is a delightful, clean romantic comedy and the first book in the Stars in the Desert series. The story introduces Indigo Fox, a beauty and lifestyle influencer whose perfectly curated online persona crashes spectacularly when a viral moment threatens to destroy her career. Wanting nothing more than to escape the spotlight and her own insecurities, she disappears into the desert in a borrowed, less-than-stylish green van and ends up rescued by Joe, a ruggedly charming hiking guide with warm chocolate-brown eyes and a laid-back attitude that feels worlds away from her influencer life. What begins as survival in the wild turns into unexpected friendship, and as Indigo settles into the slower rhythms of desert life, she begins to question what truly matters to her, especially as her feelings for Joe deepen under sandstone skies and wide-open horizons.
As I wandered with Indigo through dusty trails and awkward moments far from wifi, I felt swept up in her journey of self-discovery and surrendering to vulnerability, which made me genuinely care about her beyond the perfectly curated social posts she once relied on. What charmed me most was how Haynes blends humor, fish-out-of-water awkwardness, and unexpected tenderness: Indigo’s inner monologue had me smiling as she wrestled with scorpions, self-doubt, and Joe’s quiet strength, and moments of genuine connection between them felt grounded and warm without ever being rushed.
Joe’s calm confidence and steady support revealed a contrast to Indigo’s previous chaos that was both soothing and emotionally satisfying. While the story leans into lightheartedness with its romantic comedy vibe, I appreciated how it also explored deeper questions of identity, worth, and what it means to choose a life worth living beyond followers and filters. Indigo Off the Grid left me smiling, feeling uplifted by its sincere characters and its cozy desert setting where love feels possible when you learn to let go of who you thought you had to be.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Because its sweet humor and heartfelt emotional growth gave me a genuinely uplifting, feel-good romance.
March 26, 2026
such a cute ready!
4.5 stars
What a lil fun, whacky read! Elise had me laughing and swooning for Indigo as she navigated rough waters with her influencing career. The respite she found with Joe was so sweet & I loved the cooky side characters that I know get their own stories. Joe yearned and that was just on point. I really enjoyed this one and look forward to checking out the rest of the series!
4.5 stars
What a lil fun, whacky read! Elise had me laughing and swooning for Indigo as she navigated rough waters with her influencing career. The respite she found with Joe was so sweet & I loved the cooky side characters that I know get their own stories. Joe yearned and that was just on point. I really enjoyed this one and look forward to checking out the rest of the series!
March 29, 2025
Such a fun, cute read! And so funny, I loved it! Perfect read in time for spring and summer too. Excited to read the others!
May 31, 2025
“Looking beautiful and being beautiful aren’t exactly the same.”
Eek I’m so glad to have found another author that I love! This is the first book I’ve read by @elisehaynesbooks and it was an EASY five stars!! This book hooked me from the start and I read it in two days! One of my favorite parts of this book was the Utah setting. Since I’ve lived in utah my whole life I could picture the red rocks and the beautiful landscape. I was a little envious of Indigo for living in a van, on the side of the road, under the starry sky (even though in reality that would probably be scary 🤣). The meet cute was so great and I loved the tension between Indigo and Joe! I also really enjoyed the friendships Indigo built with many of the side characters (I can’t wait to see them in the next book). This book had me laughing and crying and can’t wait to continue the series!
🥾Contemporary Romance
🥾Book 1 in Series/ Can Standalone
🥾Closed Door
🥾No Swearing
🥾CW: Toxic Parent, Verbal Abuse
Eek I’m so glad to have found another author that I love! This is the first book I’ve read by @elisehaynesbooks and it was an EASY five stars!! This book hooked me from the start and I read it in two days! One of my favorite parts of this book was the Utah setting. Since I’ve lived in utah my whole life I could picture the red rocks and the beautiful landscape. I was a little envious of Indigo for living in a van, on the side of the road, under the starry sky (even though in reality that would probably be scary 🤣). The meet cute was so great and I loved the tension between Indigo and Joe! I also really enjoyed the friendships Indigo built with many of the side characters (I can’t wait to see them in the next book). This book had me laughing and crying and can’t wait to continue the series!
🥾Contemporary Romance
🥾Book 1 in Series/ Can Standalone
🥾Closed Door
🥾No Swearing
🥾CW: Toxic Parent, Verbal Abuse
September 14, 2024
"I love every part of you, Indigo."
Ok, this book was so delightful. I thoroughly enjoyed the heck out of it.
Indigo, or Indie, is a big-time beauty and lifestyle influencer on social media. Her mother is the worst. But throughout the book, we see a transformation, an arc from Indigo. For the longest time she has let her mother push her around and be her boss.
But after an impromptu road trip across state lines into Utah, she meets Sunny, Mercer, Goldie, Sarah, and Joe, who help her change her life for the better and help her gain some gumption and confidence to stand up to her mother.
Joe is the manager of a desert resort in Utah, and that's how he ends up meeting Indie. I won't give anything away there. But that meet cute is adorable and hilarious and quite embarrassing. Joe is so sweet and just perfect for Indie. But also, Indie might just be the thing Joe needs as well.
This story had plenty of hilarious, laugh out loud moments mixed with heart and soul-searching times. I love the emotional journey Indie goes on to find herself. It is one of standing up for herself, discovering her purpose, and what she truly wants from life. I also appreciated the message that we shouldn't let social media run our lives.
I have so many favorite parts, but will highlight a few: The whole scene when Joe is peeling the potatoes and his sisters. Oh my goodness, I about died when I realized what was going on.
And the first colored powder incident, I was at work on my lunch break when I read that scene and laughed out loud, and had to look up to make sure no one heard me.
The second colored powder incident? You Go Girl! Get'em Indie!
The ending was so sweet and his proposal was so cute!
Are you ready to discover yourself in the desert? Or need an excellent book with hilarity and soul? Then check out Indigo Off the Grid by Elise Haynes. I highly recommend it!
Also, I am so excited for Sunny's and Mercer's books. And I've heard we don't have long to wait.
My favorite parts:
Meet cute
Peeling potatoes
Family dinners
Knock knock knock
Colored powder
Hikes in the desert
Joe
The cave
Snack Guide:
OreosCookies
Roast & mashed potatoes
Bacon cheeseburger and fries
Fried chicken on a biscuit
Content Warning:
Use of word “sl*t”, innuendos, passionate kissing, on page drunkenness (not main characters), scorpion sting, toxic overbearing mother, toxic boyfriend
Thank you to the author for my copy of the ebook. All thoughts are my own.
Book Info:
Series: Stars in the Desert 1
Genre: Rom-Com
Romance Level: Closed door 2 (kisses)
Release Date: September 10, 2024
Publisher: indie
Debut novel
Ok, this book was so delightful. I thoroughly enjoyed the heck out of it.
Indigo, or Indie, is a big-time beauty and lifestyle influencer on social media. Her mother is the worst. But throughout the book, we see a transformation, an arc from Indigo. For the longest time she has let her mother push her around and be her boss.
But after an impromptu road trip across state lines into Utah, she meets Sunny, Mercer, Goldie, Sarah, and Joe, who help her change her life for the better and help her gain some gumption and confidence to stand up to her mother.
Joe is the manager of a desert resort in Utah, and that's how he ends up meeting Indie. I won't give anything away there. But that meet cute is adorable and hilarious and quite embarrassing. Joe is so sweet and just perfect for Indie. But also, Indie might just be the thing Joe needs as well.
This story had plenty of hilarious, laugh out loud moments mixed with heart and soul-searching times. I love the emotional journey Indie goes on to find herself. It is one of standing up for herself, discovering her purpose, and what she truly wants from life. I also appreciated the message that we shouldn't let social media run our lives.
I have so many favorite parts, but will highlight a few: The whole scene when Joe is peeling the potatoes and his sisters. Oh my goodness, I about died when I realized what was going on.
And the first colored powder incident, I was at work on my lunch break when I read that scene and laughed out loud, and had to look up to make sure no one heard me.
The second colored powder incident? You Go Girl! Get'em Indie!
The ending was so sweet and his proposal was so cute!
Are you ready to discover yourself in the desert? Or need an excellent book with hilarity and soul? Then check out Indigo Off the Grid by Elise Haynes. I highly recommend it!
Also, I am so excited for Sunny's and Mercer's books. And I've heard we don't have long to wait.
My favorite parts:
Meet cute
Peeling potatoes
Family dinners
Knock knock knock
Colored powder
Hikes in the desert
Joe
The cave
Snack Guide:
OreosCookies
Roast & mashed potatoes
Bacon cheeseburger and fries
Fried chicken on a biscuit
Content Warning:
Use of word “sl*t”, innuendos, passionate kissing, on page drunkenness (not main characters), scorpion sting, toxic overbearing mother, toxic boyfriend
Thank you to the author for my copy of the ebook. All thoughts are my own.
Book Info:
Series: Stars in the Desert 1
Genre: Rom-Com
Romance Level: Closed door 2 (kisses)
Release Date: September 10, 2024
Publisher: indie
Debut novel
September 11, 2024
“You’re allowed to choose a life that makes you happy.”
~When Indigo’s life falls apart, she runs away in order to escape the fallout. But what she doesn’t expect is to find herself in the small town stumbles upon. While there she makes new friends and begins to see herself in a new light…
“To be seen for something besides my packaging makes me feel genuinely valued, maybe for the first time in my life.”
Off the Grid is a delightful, fun, closed-door, fish-out-of-water sweet romantic comedy. It’s the first in a series, but can be read as a standalone. Dear Indigo Fox is quirky and full of life. I thoroughly enjoyed that there’s so much more to her than a pretty face and more to life than her “follower count.” I enjoyed her unique pov. perspective. Seeing her adapt and grow along the way was lovely. Being able to discover who she really was after shedding toxic things/people in her life was inspiring. I loved how new friendships and found family along the way thoroughly embraced her and allowed her to understand how real family and friends show up for you, and love you, just as you are!🩷I enjoyed that Joe Pratt could her worth and beauty from the moment they met and as their relationship grew. His steady and kind ways helped Indigo bloom with such love! Even with unexpected twists and turns, he stood his ground, to fight for Indigo and her worth.
Friends, this story is not one to miss! It’s really a dear story that is stitched wonderfully with self discovery and finding true happiness! 🙌🏻📚💯
“I am enough as is, without filters or layers of makeup, with an imperfect body and awkward person-ality, I am enough. I don’t exist to entertain or to be pretty.”
#indigooffthegrid
#elisehaynes
#worththeread
#allaboutthebestreads
“I love every part of you, Indigo. Everything about you is beautiful.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“I love you way too much to ever let you go.”
~When Indigo’s life falls apart, she runs away in order to escape the fallout. But what she doesn’t expect is to find herself in the small town stumbles upon. While there she makes new friends and begins to see herself in a new light…
“To be seen for something besides my packaging makes me feel genuinely valued, maybe for the first time in my life.”
Off the Grid is a delightful, fun, closed-door, fish-out-of-water sweet romantic comedy. It’s the first in a series, but can be read as a standalone. Dear Indigo Fox is quirky and full of life. I thoroughly enjoyed that there’s so much more to her than a pretty face and more to life than her “follower count.” I enjoyed her unique pov. perspective. Seeing her adapt and grow along the way was lovely. Being able to discover who she really was after shedding toxic things/people in her life was inspiring. I loved how new friendships and found family along the way thoroughly embraced her and allowed her to understand how real family and friends show up for you, and love you, just as you are!🩷I enjoyed that Joe Pratt could her worth and beauty from the moment they met and as their relationship grew. His steady and kind ways helped Indigo bloom with such love! Even with unexpected twists and turns, he stood his ground, to fight for Indigo and her worth.
Friends, this story is not one to miss! It’s really a dear story that is stitched wonderfully with self discovery and finding true happiness! 🙌🏻📚💯
“I am enough as is, without filters or layers of makeup, with an imperfect body and awkward person-ality, I am enough. I don’t exist to entertain or to be pretty.”
#indigooffthegrid
#elisehaynes
#worththeread
#allaboutthebestreads
“I love every part of you, Indigo. Everything about you is beautiful.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“I love you way too much to ever let you go.”
September 8, 2024
What an amazing life-affirming story. Indigo off the grid is funny, heartfelt, and swoony. Indigo's transformation as she spends time outdoors and with people who like her for who she really is manages to give a hopeful message, but also shine a light on the toxicity of social media culture.
I'll give you a taste of Indigo's hilarious stream of consciousness:
'I feel like Ariel when she got her legs. I just have to convince Joe that he's Prince Eric. Come to think of it, he sort of looks like Prince Eric. I also have red hair, but my singing is trash. Who cares? Prince Eric invited me to live on his property.'
'I feel like I finally canceled an unused gym membership. Months and months of payments from me, but no improvement to us. I can't figure out if I'm the gym or the lazy person in this metaphor.'
Amidst the humor, there's a lot in this book about being yourself, escaping unhelpful pressures and setting boundaries. Indie's vulnerability makes her a very relatable character.
'My tone is flippant, but I know I accidentally let my damage show.'
'I know I'm on the right track and I'm trusting that. I'm trusting myself.'
This is a rom-com about self-discovery and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
I'll give you a taste of Indigo's hilarious stream of consciousness:
'I feel like Ariel when she got her legs. I just have to convince Joe that he's Prince Eric. Come to think of it, he sort of looks like Prince Eric. I also have red hair, but my singing is trash. Who cares? Prince Eric invited me to live on his property.'
'I feel like I finally canceled an unused gym membership. Months and months of payments from me, but no improvement to us. I can't figure out if I'm the gym or the lazy person in this metaphor.'
Amidst the humor, there's a lot in this book about being yourself, escaping unhelpful pressures and setting boundaries. Indie's vulnerability makes her a very relatable character.
'My tone is flippant, but I know I accidentally let my damage show.'
'I know I'm on the right track and I'm trusting that. I'm trusting myself.'
This is a rom-com about self-discovery and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
September 1, 2024
This book was just pure FUN! The best friendships, found family, meet cute & first date comedy gold. The inner thoughts and ramblings from Indigo had me laughing out loud throughout the entire book, I mean the “excellent boiled potatoes” reference had me cackling! This is 1st person, single POV and it was So. Well. Done! And I’m the first to admit I’m slightly picky when it comes to single pov but this book delivered and I didn’t feel at any point that I needed more than Indie’s pov. It was such a great story of learning how to stick up for yourself and finding your true friends and family along the way! I cannot wait for more in this series!
August 30, 2024
This book was soooo good!! If this is Elise’s debut book I can’t wait to see what else she has in store 😊 I love Indigo and the insight into her mind had me laughing out loud. If you’re looking for a feel good book with life lessons, found family, beautiful friendships, and a cinnamon roll of an MMC then this book is for you! I can’t recommend it enough. It’s out on Kindle Unlimited and paperback September 10th!
Read
September 17, 2024I commend this debut author on her first novel; however, it wasn't for me. The premise was great but it didn't go in the direction I thought. The story was cute and written well but the insta love and manipulative mother were turn offs for me. I didn't believe the MMC's feelings for the FMC. He was apparently jilted and didn't date but loved Indigo right away and instantly forgave her after the third-act breakup. I wanted to love it but I didn't get into it.
June 2, 2025
Delightful Story!
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it, for sure, won’t be the last. It’s got a good pace, fun side characters I’m now invested in, and an excellent romance. 🚫🤬🚫🌶️ just kisses 🩵 I definitely recommend it!
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it, for sure, won’t be the last. It’s got a good pace, fun side characters I’m now invested in, and an excellent romance. 🚫🤬🚫🌶️ just kisses 🩵 I definitely recommend it!
August 6, 2026
Hilarious and sweet
So very very very good. I laughed and laughed. Couldn't put this book down. Can't wait to start the next one.
So very very very good. I laughed and laughed. Couldn't put this book down. Can't wait to start the next one.
September 9, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. Laugh out loud fun!
April 7, 2026
Adorable in every way! A new favorite!!!!
May 8, 2026
Omg stop everything and read this if you love hyperactive, flawed and relatable FMCs like Indie, and if you love female friendship and confronting abusive people.
(With romance with a handsome, swoony guy who is also kind and protective!)
Best quotes: “I think I’ve loved you from the first time I caught you singing
Billy Joel. I love every part of you, Indigo. Everything about you is
beautiful. I promise I’ll love you and take care of you until our hair turns
gray.” His hands cup my jaw. I know what’s coming next. “Will you marry
me?”
I pretend to consider his question, twisting my lips to the side. I
pretend to be deep in thought, loving the feel of his warm hands on my
cheeks. My eyes find his. “I love you way too much to ever let you go. I
think I’d better marr—”
And he finishes my sentence with a long kiss.”
“Indigo has endured her mother’s
manipulation and emotional abuse for years and still manages to be loving
and compassionate to everyone around her. This is the real Indigo. She is
more beautiful than her mother will ever be, unless she finds a plastic
surgeon for the soul.”
He holds out his arms like I’m going to run over to him and apologize, and
we can go back inside and I’ll be the inanimate Gumdrop on his arm again.
Bzzzzt. Wrong answer.
I launch two bags of colored powder in the direction of Miles’ face
—and this time I calculate for wind. A glorious cloud of fluorescent pink
powder surrounds him, and when it starts to settle I don’t hide my 100-watt
smile. This couldn’t have gone better. He’s wearing a heavy coat of pink,
from his immaculately coiffed hair down to his old school Ferragamo
loafers. He coughs and sputters, groaning and spitting the powder out of his
mouth. (Indie put colored powder on her EVIL EX!)
“I think I’m falling in love with you, Joe Pratt,” I whisper.
“I’m way ahead of you, Fox.”
(With romance with a handsome, swoony guy who is also kind and protective!)
Best quotes: “I think I’ve loved you from the first time I caught you singing
Billy Joel. I love every part of you, Indigo. Everything about you is
beautiful. I promise I’ll love you and take care of you until our hair turns
gray.” His hands cup my jaw. I know what’s coming next. “Will you marry
me?”
I pretend to consider his question, twisting my lips to the side. I
pretend to be deep in thought, loving the feel of his warm hands on my
cheeks. My eyes find his. “I love you way too much to ever let you go. I
think I’d better marr—”
And he finishes my sentence with a long kiss.”
“Indigo has endured her mother’s
manipulation and emotional abuse for years and still manages to be loving
and compassionate to everyone around her. This is the real Indigo. She is
more beautiful than her mother will ever be, unless she finds a plastic
surgeon for the soul.”
He holds out his arms like I’m going to run over to him and apologize, and
we can go back inside and I’ll be the inanimate Gumdrop on his arm again.
Bzzzzt. Wrong answer.
I launch two bags of colored powder in the direction of Miles’ face
—and this time I calculate for wind. A glorious cloud of fluorescent pink
powder surrounds him, and when it starts to settle I don’t hide my 100-watt
smile. This couldn’t have gone better. He’s wearing a heavy coat of pink,
from his immaculately coiffed hair down to his old school Ferragamo
loafers. He coughs and sputters, groaning and spitting the powder out of his
mouth. (Indie put colored powder on her EVIL EX!)
“I think I’m falling in love with you, Joe Pratt,” I whisper.
“I’m way ahead of you, Fox.”
October 14, 2024
"You're allowed to choose a life that makes you happy."
"The thing about Nizhoni is that it can mean beautiful as in attractive, but it also refers to something that is inherently good. The Navajo idea of beauty means more than how something looks. True beauty is deeper than that. And that is you. You're kind. I feel better when I'm around you. You are a beautiful soul."
"I am enough - as is, without filters or layers of makeup, with an imperfect body and awkward personality, I am enough."
Read if you like:
* Closed Door RomCom
* Fish Out of Water
* Single POV
* First in a series/Can be read as a stand alone
* Witty Banter
* Swoony Kisses
I absolutely adored this book! It grabbed my interest right from the start and I stayed up way too late finishing it because I just did not want to put it down!
I loved Indigo's journey. Watching her learn to value her own inherent worth and discover what true friendship is was beautiful on its own...add in the Joe swoon factor and...sigh!
This book is full of heart, growth, friendship, found family, witty banter, chemistry, and characters that you want to root for. I was blown away when I realized that this is the author's debut novel! I am so excited that this is the start of a series and I'm crossing my fingers that we get books for all of Joe's sisters as well as Mercer!
Favorites:
* "This dress isn't designed for kickboxing"
* Stealing a shower
* Guessing Joe's middle name
* Blobfish
* Gardening therapy
* Warming up after the rain
* "Obbs"
* Unicorn death powder
* Joe talking to Miles about feelings
* Master potato peeler
* Mercer's candor
* Practicing saying no
* Knock knock knock
* Epilogue!
"The thing about Nizhoni is that it can mean beautiful as in attractive, but it also refers to something that is inherently good. The Navajo idea of beauty means more than how something looks. True beauty is deeper than that. And that is you. You're kind. I feel better when I'm around you. You are a beautiful soul."
"I am enough - as is, without filters or layers of makeup, with an imperfect body and awkward personality, I am enough."
Read if you like:
* Closed Door RomCom
* Fish Out of Water
* Single POV
* First in a series/Can be read as a stand alone
* Witty Banter
* Swoony Kisses
I absolutely adored this book! It grabbed my interest right from the start and I stayed up way too late finishing it because I just did not want to put it down!
I loved Indigo's journey. Watching her learn to value her own inherent worth and discover what true friendship is was beautiful on its own...add in the Joe swoon factor and...sigh!
This book is full of heart, growth, friendship, found family, witty banter, chemistry, and characters that you want to root for. I was blown away when I realized that this is the author's debut novel! I am so excited that this is the start of a series and I'm crossing my fingers that we get books for all of Joe's sisters as well as Mercer!
Favorites:
* "This dress isn't designed for kickboxing"
* Stealing a shower
* Guessing Joe's middle name
* Blobfish
* Gardening therapy
* Warming up after the rain
* "Obbs"
* Unicorn death powder
* Joe talking to Miles about feelings
* Master potato peeler
* Mercer's candor
* Practicing saying no
* Knock knock knock
* Epilogue!
May 30, 2025
Can I please be friends with these characters in real life? I seriously loved all the characters that Indigo met while in Utah.
Indigo Off the Grid by Elise Haynes was such a sweet, fun read. I found myself staying up way too late to read, “just one more chapter.” You know how it goes, please tell me I’m not alone here!
This is the first book I have read by Elise Haynes and I am so glad I did! The style in which she writes her books feels so conversational like the characters are actually speaking right to you. When I read this line in the book, “Now quit blubbering and get in the van, Jaime,” she commands with a smile. I 100% knew that this was going to a be a book I would like.
I especially loved how as the story progressed Indie became more comfortable with speaking her thoughts. Her inner dialogue started to peek through and we started to get a glimpse into her fun personality.
The friendships that she makes and the love she discovers along the way help her feel comfortable in being unapologetically herself.
I am so glad that I decided to read this book because not only is it a fun read, you don’t have to wait to read more about these fun and spunky characters! There are 4 books in this series and all are available to read!
Indigo Off the Grid by Elise Haynes was such a sweet, fun read. I found myself staying up way too late to read, “just one more chapter.” You know how it goes, please tell me I’m not alone here!
This is the first book I have read by Elise Haynes and I am so glad I did! The style in which she writes her books feels so conversational like the characters are actually speaking right to you. When I read this line in the book, “Now quit blubbering and get in the van, Jaime,” she commands with a smile. I 100% knew that this was going to a be a book I would like.
I especially loved how as the story progressed Indie became more comfortable with speaking her thoughts. Her inner dialogue started to peek through and we started to get a glimpse into her fun personality.
The friendships that she makes and the love she discovers along the way help her feel comfortable in being unapologetically herself.
I am so glad that I decided to read this book because not only is it a fun read, you don’t have to wait to read more about these fun and spunky characters! There are 4 books in this series and all are available to read!
September 19, 2024
“I think I’m falling in love with you, Joe Pratt.” “I’m way ahead of you, Fox.”
* Yesss Southern Utah!
* I’m actually impressed by her camping shopping skills
* I can’t believe she snuck in 😂
* Oh my gosh of course he’s the boss. Hahaha
* Ahh man, why’d she have to go ruining the kiss like that 😅
* A man who peels potatoes and washes the dishes? Be still my heart!
* Nooo she’s being a dummy! And also I feel so bad for her
* Awwwww
This book was so fun and I really enjoyed it from page one!
Indie is cute and fun and I was so proud of her for working through her problems and making it out on top.
And truly, I love Joe! He is such a sweetie pie and he’s so tender and the best big brother.
This was cute, swoony, rom-com in a beautiful familiar location!
“You are beautiful. You don’t just look beautiful.”
“Oh Indie, you loveable idiot.”
Thanks to the author for the ebook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Yesss Southern Utah!
* I’m actually impressed by her camping shopping skills
* I can’t believe she snuck in 😂
* Oh my gosh of course he’s the boss. Hahaha
* Ahh man, why’d she have to go ruining the kiss like that 😅
* A man who peels potatoes and washes the dishes? Be still my heart!
* Nooo she’s being a dummy! And also I feel so bad for her
* Awwwww
This book was so fun and I really enjoyed it from page one!
Indie is cute and fun and I was so proud of her for working through her problems and making it out on top.
And truly, I love Joe! He is such a sweetie pie and he’s so tender and the best big brother.
This was cute, swoony, rom-com in a beautiful familiar location!
“You are beautiful. You don’t just look beautiful.”
“Oh Indie, you loveable idiot.”
Thanks to the author for the ebook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 9, 2026
When it comes to books about influencers, I’m not usually a fan. I hate to see the awful things some of them feel like they need to do to be popular, and I hate seeing how hateful people can be. Because of that, and how Indigo is a complete people pleasure who can’t seem to say no, her awful mom who treats her like a business commodity rather than a daughter, I didn’t like the book. Joe seems cute, and is definitely a good influence on Indie, he helps her see that it’s not her that’s a mess, it’s how the life she has been living runs the wrong way with her personality. Indie seemed to have changed overnight when it comes to her mom, toward the end, and while I liked to see it, it felt a little out of the blue for me. I liked Indie best away from her mother and social media, and had hoped to see more character development rather than just her good side, and superficial changes going on.
May 18, 2025
4.5⭐️/5
Well if this wasn’t the cutest rom com I’ve ever read.
Found family 🤌🏼
Cinnamon roll mmc 🤌🏼
Love at first sight 🤌🏼
I will take a Joe. Please 🙏🏼
Indigo is a social media influencer who gets overwhelmed and runs away from her life. She ends up in Utah in a retro green Volkswagen van. She meets a handsome stranger who helps her after a hilarious and unfortunate accident. She finds herself in the desert camping and hiking for the first time and falls in love with the outdoors.
She ends up working/volunteering at the local spa and meets Sunny, Mercer and Joe. Turns out Joe is the owner and the guy who helped her with her accident. Also, he drives a BRONCO 🛻(they’re my favorite vehicles). There is banter, chemistry and general hilariousness between Joe and Indie. Joe is a sweetheart and cares deeply. I loved how he fought for her and healed her insecurities with love and kindness.
Her mom/boss wrecks the party when she shows up unannounced. Indie is forced to work through what she wants and choose the life that will make her happy. I’m glad Indie grew a backbone! This is a sweet story about finding yourself, fighting for what you want and for choosing people who are in your corner! Loved this book!
Favorite Quotes:
I take a deep breath through my nose of the desert air I’ve come to love, full of something earthy and spicy that I wish I had a name for. It quenches a thirst in my spirit I didn’t know I was feeling.
“You are beautiful. You don’t just look beautiful. And when we have more time and I have you alone, I’ll tell you why.”
True beauty is deeper than that. And that is you. You lift people up. You're kind. I feel better when I'm around you. You are a beautiful soul."
“I think I’m falling in love with you, Joe Pratt,” I whisper. “I’m way ahead of you, Fox.”
“I think I’ve loved you from the first time I caught you singing Billy Joel. I love every part of you, Indigo. Everything about you is beautiful. I promise I’ll love you and take care of you until our hair turns gray.” His hands cup my jaw. I know what’s coming next. “Will you marry me?”
Well if this wasn’t the cutest rom com I’ve ever read.
Found family 🤌🏼
Cinnamon roll mmc 🤌🏼
Love at first sight 🤌🏼
I will take a Joe. Please 🙏🏼
Indigo is a social media influencer who gets overwhelmed and runs away from her life. She ends up in Utah in a retro green Volkswagen van. She meets a handsome stranger who helps her after a hilarious and unfortunate accident. She finds herself in the desert camping and hiking for the first time and falls in love with the outdoors.
She ends up working/volunteering at the local spa and meets Sunny, Mercer and Joe. Turns out Joe is the owner and the guy who helped her with her accident. Also, he drives a BRONCO 🛻(they’re my favorite vehicles). There is banter, chemistry and general hilariousness between Joe and Indie. Joe is a sweetheart and cares deeply. I loved how he fought for her and healed her insecurities with love and kindness.
Her mom/boss wrecks the party when she shows up unannounced. Indie is forced to work through what she wants and choose the life that will make her happy. I’m glad Indie grew a backbone! This is a sweet story about finding yourself, fighting for what you want and for choosing people who are in your corner! Loved this book!
Favorite Quotes:
I take a deep breath through my nose of the desert air I’ve come to love, full of something earthy and spicy that I wish I had a name for. It quenches a thirst in my spirit I didn’t know I was feeling.
“You are beautiful. You don’t just look beautiful. And when we have more time and I have you alone, I’ll tell you why.”
True beauty is deeper than that. And that is you. You lift people up. You're kind. I feel better when I'm around you. You are a beautiful soul."
“I think I’m falling in love with you, Joe Pratt,” I whisper. “I’m way ahead of you, Fox.”
“I think I’ve loved you from the first time I caught you singing Billy Joel. I love every part of you, Indigo. Everything about you is beautiful. I promise I’ll love you and take care of you until our hair turns gray.” His hands cup my jaw. I know what’s coming next. “Will you marry me?”
May 26, 2025
4.5 stars! Okay, this book has been on my TBR for way too long, and I’m so glad I finally got to read it. I loved this story so much! Indigo was stuck under her mother’s manipulative and overbearing thumb. After an embarrassing picture shows up on social media, she makes a run for it. She meets our handsome MMC Joe, as well as other fun characters Sunny, Mercer, and Goldie (who also have their own stories!). While I did want to shake Indigo to wake up and stand up for herself, I enjoyed her journey towards doing just that. I was cheering her on from page one. This story made me think and laugh in all the best ways. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
June 22, 2025
I was so excited to read this book! A sweet, travel, romcom - what could be better?
Well, I was expecting a little more travel. There was very little description of the drive between California and Utah. And once she parked in Utah, she stayed there a while.
And it was funny, but I was hoping for a little more. ("Unicorn death powder " might be my new favorite phrase though! Oh my gosh - so funny!)
It might be just me, though. I personally find the social media influencer with overbearing mom a bit cliche. Again, just me!
I really did enjoy the book. I now want to go back to Utah to see the view (minus the scorpions!) And I do recommend it.
Well, I was expecting a little more travel. There was very little description of the drive between California and Utah. And once she parked in Utah, she stayed there a while.
And it was funny, but I was hoping for a little more. ("Unicorn death powder " might be my new favorite phrase though! Oh my gosh - so funny!)
It might be just me, though. I personally find the social media influencer with overbearing mom a bit cliche. Again, just me!
I really did enjoy the book. I now want to go back to Utah to see the view (minus the scorpions!) And I do recommend it.
July 21, 2025
Adorable and fun!
I loved Indigo and Joe but all of the other characters!
Great start to the series can’t wait for the other stories!
The third act gets a little slow but I think the author touched on a really important topic of our society.
Children being a part of a brand early on and how do they transition? Whether child stars or now social media there’s a lot of kids, teens and then adults who are the bread winners or a large part of it.
Co-dependency on another level.
I think this book did a great job of keeping the story light and funny but also being true to Indie and her journey.
Overall very surprised by this book!
I loved Indigo and Joe but all of the other characters!
Great start to the series can’t wait for the other stories!
The third act gets a little slow but I think the author touched on a really important topic of our society.
Children being a part of a brand early on and how do they transition? Whether child stars or now social media there’s a lot of kids, teens and then adults who are the bread winners or a large part of it.
Co-dependency on another level.
I think this book did a great job of keeping the story light and funny but also being true to Indie and her journey.
Overall very surprised by this book!
April 1, 2026
If you like silly, cheesy, downright adorable romance novels, you will love this! It really was a fun little breath of fresh air after a rather dark dystopian novel. The characters felt real and I loved the Utah setting after traveling there myself earlier this month. Indigo was a little bit of an outrageous character at times, but she was also relatively relatable and extremely comical. Enjoyed the found family aspect too. I would say this is similar to Katherine Center and early Sarah Adams writing. I am definitely going to read more in this series (all Joe’s sisters have their own books 🥹). Just shy of 300 pages and on KU, it’s the perfect little palate cleanser!
Read
April 10, 2026Indigo is a famous social media influencer who runs away from her life and career to a desert resort where she meets lovely, quirky people.
This book is for you if you want a sweet romance and themes of self discovery.
It has no spice or language and it is written by a debut, indie author. I'll definitely read more in this series when I need a low stakes, low angst romance.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Some of the plot points weren't my favorite and the main characters didn't connect with me, but overall it was enjoyable. I can't wait to see how this author grows in her writing in her next books. I believe she has six or seven out now on Kindle Unlimited.
This book is for you if you want a sweet romance and themes of self discovery.
It has no spice or language and it is written by a debut, indie author. I'll definitely read more in this series when I need a low stakes, low angst romance.
Rating: 3.5 stars
Some of the plot points weren't my favorite and the main characters didn't connect with me, but overall it was enjoyable. I can't wait to see how this author grows in her writing in her next books. I believe she has six or seven out now on Kindle Unlimited.
March 29, 2025
“The Navajo idea of beauty means more than how something looks. True beauty is deeper than that. And that is you. You lift people up. You’re kind. I feel better when I’m around you. You are a beautiful soul.”
🛞
Indigo is a social media influencer who has had enough of living a life that doesn’t feel like her own. She escapes and finds possibility and friendships that make her dare to hope for more. Including a potential relationship with the owner of a local resort, Joe. But, changing the course of your life takes gumption, bravery and risk and one never knows what you’ll find at the end of leap. Will Indigo embrace her life off the grid or return to the life she’s always known?
🛞
This story was enchanting and so delightful! Indigo became a favorite character of mine and I both empathized and rooted for her throughout her journey! Joe was completely dreamy and their chemistry captivated me! Mercer and Sunny, along with the rest of Joe’s family, were wonderful examples of the kind of people you hope to have surrounding you! Also, the author’s writing style made me laugh and tear up; cheer and swoon and I often looked forward to the next time I got to return to reading this story! I have sooo many highlights in this book!
🛞
I’m so excited to continue this series and get to know these characters even more!
🛞
Indigo is a social media influencer who has had enough of living a life that doesn’t feel like her own. She escapes and finds possibility and friendships that make her dare to hope for more. Including a potential relationship with the owner of a local resort, Joe. But, changing the course of your life takes gumption, bravery and risk and one never knows what you’ll find at the end of leap. Will Indigo embrace her life off the grid or return to the life she’s always known?
🛞
This story was enchanting and so delightful! Indigo became a favorite character of mine and I both empathized and rooted for her throughout her journey! Joe was completely dreamy and their chemistry captivated me! Mercer and Sunny, along with the rest of Joe’s family, were wonderful examples of the kind of people you hope to have surrounding you! Also, the author’s writing style made me laugh and tear up; cheer and swoon and I often looked forward to the next time I got to return to reading this story! I have sooo many highlights in this book!
🛞
I’m so excited to continue this series and get to know these characters even more!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews