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Rosewood River #5
In a Heartbeat
Wren Waterstone isn’t just one of the most decorated equestrians in the world―she was also my best friend for as long as I can remember. Until she wasn’t.
Now she’s back in Rosewood River, and thanks to a temp agency, Wren has been placed at my ranch. I have no intention of allowing my ex-best-friend to work for me, but when I see the desperation in her eyes, I can’t turn her away, even though I know I should.
Old habits die hard.
Seeing her every day is more challenging than I expected. She’s guarded. Wounded. And she looks at me like I’m the enemy. I need to know why. The more time we spend together, the more the lines between past and present blur―and we find our way back to one another. The only problem is, she’s got big dreams to chase.
And I only want to chase her.
I’ve loved this girl my entire life, and our time apart didn’t change that. I let Wren Waterstone get away once. Am I really going to make that mistake again?
Now she’s back in Rosewood River, and thanks to a temp agency, Wren has been placed at my ranch. I have no intention of allowing my ex-best-friend to work for me, but when I see the desperation in her eyes, I can’t turn her away, even though I know I should.
Old habits die hard.
Seeing her every day is more challenging than I expected. She’s guarded. Wounded. And she looks at me like I’m the enemy. I need to know why. The more time we spend together, the more the lines between past and present blur―and we find our way back to one another. The only problem is, she’s got big dreams to chase.
And I only want to chase her.
I’ve loved this girl my entire life, and our time apart didn’t change that. I let Wren Waterstone get away once. Am I really going to make that mistake again?
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 16, 2025
2055 people are currently reading
10745 people want to read
About the author
Laura Pavlov
57 books10.8k followersLaura Pavlov is a USA Today and Amazon top 10 Bestselling author. She writes sweet and sexy small town romance that will make you both laugh and cry. Laura is happily married to her college sweetheart, mom to two awesome kids who are currently adulting, one temperamental yorkie and one wild bernedoodle. She's living her own happily ever after in Las Vegas. Be sure to sign up for updates on new releases. Laura loves hearing from readers!
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December 16, 2025Available now!
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https://geni.us/inaheartbeat
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Narrated by: Alex Knox and Samantha Brentmoor
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Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
https://geni.us/inaheartbeat
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4iGiano
Hardcover: Coming soon
Audible: https://geni.us/IAHAUDIO
Narrated by: Alex Knox and Samantha Brentmoor
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/477mR5w
December 23, 2025
This might be my last book by this author for a while…
The chapters were very repetitive and I felt like I was rereading the exact same conversations, but with different characters. Wren and Axel just kept summarizing their past to their friends and family and I was over it. It should not be full chapters, it should just be a paragraph after the first time they shared the full story.
And don’t get me started on the miscommunication. It was such a dumb and weak excuse for why the leads do not to speak to each other for over two years. The author’s attempt at redeeming Wren’s brother was very random as well. It happened out of nowhere and was not believable either. No one changes their ways that quickly.
This book was honestly so uninspiring, but I’ve accomplished my reading goal so that’s the one silver lining from reading this book🤷🏻♀️🥳
The chapters were very repetitive and I felt like I was rereading the exact same conversations, but with different characters. Wren and Axel just kept summarizing their past to their friends and family and I was over it. It should not be full chapters, it should just be a paragraph after the first time they shared the full story.
And don’t get me started on the miscommunication. It was such a dumb and weak excuse for why the leads do not to speak to each other for over two years. The author’s attempt at redeeming Wren’s brother was very random as well. It happened out of nowhere and was not believable either. No one changes their ways that quickly.
This book was honestly so uninspiring, but I’ve accomplished my reading goal so that’s the one silver lining from reading this book🤷🏻♀️🥳
December 9, 2025
5 stars
Laura Pavlov always hits with her small-town romances, and ‘In a Heartbeat’ is a fantastic addition to her Rosewood River series. I love a good friends-to-lovers romance, and even though they aren’t friends when the story starts, they’re each other's oldest friend and always will be.
Wren comes home to Rosewood River, down on her luck, and takes a job with her bestie, Axel. Well, ex-bestie. She needs help, and even though they haven't talked in a couple of years, Axel would do anything for her.
Once we get to the crux of their issues, you really see how much these two love one another, and it’s beautiful. This had one of the most epic grand gestures that gave me all the feels, and I just adored this couple together.
In a Heartbeat was so sweet and charming, and had just the right amount of angst. It’s obvious that this couple was meant to be, and I was so happy they found their way back to one another. The family dynamic in this series is epic, and I’m glad we still have at least one more book to come!
Laura Pavlov always hits with her small-town romances, and ‘In a Heartbeat’ is a fantastic addition to her Rosewood River series. I love a good friends-to-lovers romance, and even though they aren’t friends when the story starts, they’re each other's oldest friend and always will be.
Wren comes home to Rosewood River, down on her luck, and takes a job with her bestie, Axel. Well, ex-bestie. She needs help, and even though they haven't talked in a couple of years, Axel would do anything for her.
Once we get to the crux of their issues, you really see how much these two love one another, and it’s beautiful. This had one of the most epic grand gestures that gave me all the feels, and I just adored this couple together.
In a Heartbeat was so sweet and charming, and had just the right amount of angst. It’s obvious that this couple was meant to be, and I was so happy they found their way back to one another. The family dynamic in this series is epic, and I’m glad we still have at least one more book to come!
Audio book source: Book Funnel
Story Rating: 5 stars
Narrators: Alex Knox & Samantha Brentmoor
Narration Rating: 5 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 8h 45m
December 21, 2025
“Horse girl” as a term of endearment was odd.
December 21, 2025
5🌟, 3🌶️
Coming back to Rosewood River has never felt this tender or this bittersweet.
Wren and Axel's story is a friends to lovers, second chance romance that hits on both the emotional and romantic levels. Wren returns home after her world falls apart, carrying loss, self doubt, and a broken sense of direction. Axel is overwhelmed with a thriving business, and despite their complicated family history, he is still the one person who shows up for her without hesitation.
What really sold me was the way Axel loves Wren with patience and respect. He never pushes, never guilt trips, and never tries to decide her future for her. Their chemistry is undeniable, but it is their emotional understanding that makes this relationship feel so real.
Wren's connection to her horse added another layer of tenderness that made her journey even more powerful.
The familiar family chaos, group chats, and returning characters brought humor and comfort, perfectly balancing the heavier moments. While there is some family drama, the love story always stays front and center.
This story wrapped me up in all the feelings and left me with that quiet, content kind of happiness that lingers long after the last page.
~~~~
Special thanks to Laura Pavlov & Valentine PR for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
Coming back to Rosewood River has never felt this tender or this bittersweet.
Wren and Axel's story is a friends to lovers, second chance romance that hits on both the emotional and romantic levels. Wren returns home after her world falls apart, carrying loss, self doubt, and a broken sense of direction. Axel is overwhelmed with a thriving business, and despite their complicated family history, he is still the one person who shows up for her without hesitation.
What really sold me was the way Axel loves Wren with patience and respect. He never pushes, never guilt trips, and never tries to decide her future for her. Their chemistry is undeniable, but it is their emotional understanding that makes this relationship feel so real.
Wren's connection to her horse added another layer of tenderness that made her journey even more powerful.
The familiar family chaos, group chats, and returning characters brought humor and comfort, perfectly balancing the heavier moments. While there is some family drama, the love story always stays front and center.
This story wrapped me up in all the feelings and left me with that quiet, content kind of happiness that lingers long after the last page.
~~~~
Special thanks to Laura Pavlov & Valentine PR for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
Read
December 17, 2025honestly i skimmed a lot of this. for people who were such good friends it seems unrealistic that they would let something so minimal have such a drastic effect on their friendship. he even continued to go to her shows but didn’t care enough to seek her out ??? okay. adults with miscommunication trope just pisses me off fr
followed typically friends to lovers that he slept with everyone and she didn’t. this author tends to at least give her fmcs some experience but of course she knew she was in love with him for years before he realized he felt the same way. 🥱
after they hook up and she ghosts him it took him a year to sleep with someone else which she just thought was amazing considering he loooooves sex. tbh they were only separated two years she could have made them both celibate but of course not!
also her being called “horse girl” 🥴🥴🥴 and his song for her. cringe
followed typically friends to lovers that he slept with everyone and she didn’t. this author tends to at least give her fmcs some experience but of course she knew she was in love with him for years before he realized he felt the same way. 🥱
after they hook up and she ghosts him it took him a year to sleep with someone else which she just thought was amazing considering he loooooves sex. tbh they were only separated two years she could have made them both celibate but of course not!
also her being called “horse girl” 🥴🥴🥴 and his song for her. cringe
December 30, 2025
3.5 stars! In a Heartbeat is book 5 in the Rosewood River small town romance series from Laura Pavlov. This is a childhood best friends to lovers romance with a bit of a second chance for them (they hooked up in the past) and cowboy romance vibes.
Wren and Axel have been friends for years, we see them in high school in the prologue and then continue to get flashbacks to their past throughout different chapters. They did stop speaking for a while and went their separate ways after a miscommunication. I will say the reasoning behind their separation didn’t work for me quite that well. Wren has a lot of family trauma drama with her father who she caught cheating on her mother, they’ve since divorced and he’s now expecting a child with his new partner. A lot of the story really does center around Wren’s family drama and Axel being there for her through it all (their siblings were once together too if you’ve been keeping up with the series).
Wren is a “horse girl” as Axel calls her and quite the equestrian, we do see a lot of her time doing western activities for her career. Axel makes custom horse trailers and his business is booming. After a tumble on her horse and her beloved horse being sold out from under her, Wren returns home and starts working for Axel’s booming business. While not my favorite in the series, this was a quick read!
Wren and Axel have been friends for years, we see them in high school in the prologue and then continue to get flashbacks to their past throughout different chapters. They did stop speaking for a while and went their separate ways after a miscommunication. I will say the reasoning behind their separation didn’t work for me quite that well. Wren has a lot of family trauma drama with her father who she caught cheating on her mother, they’ve since divorced and he’s now expecting a child with his new partner. A lot of the story really does center around Wren’s family drama and Axel being there for her through it all (their siblings were once together too if you’ve been keeping up with the series).
Wren is a “horse girl” as Axel calls her and quite the equestrian, we do see a lot of her time doing western activities for her career. Axel makes custom horse trailers and his business is booming. After a tumble on her horse and her beloved horse being sold out from under her, Wren returns home and starts working for Axel’s booming business. While not my favorite in the series, this was a quick read!
December 5, 2025
"In a Heartbeat" is everything you want in a small-town romance — swoony, emotional and satisfying. This best-friends-to-lovers, second-chance story fits perfectly into the Rosewood River series!
🎧The audiobook shines. Samantha Brentmoor and Alex Knox's dual narration is fantastic, completely drawing me in from start to finish. The story hits so many of the right notes: the bitterness of an unwanted homecoming, the angst of working next to someone you've never stopped loving, heartbreaking revelations that turn everything upside down, and the relief of finally getting answers and a reunion that's been years in the making.
If you love, friends to enemies to lovers and small-town second-chance romances, don't skip this one!
Thanks for Laura and Valentine PR for this ALC!
🎧The audiobook shines. Samantha Brentmoor and Alex Knox's dual narration is fantastic, completely drawing me in from start to finish. The story hits so many of the right notes: the bitterness of an unwanted homecoming, the angst of working next to someone you've never stopped loving, heartbreaking revelations that turn everything upside down, and the relief of finally getting answers and a reunion that's been years in the making.
If you love, friends to enemies to lovers and small-town second-chance romances, don't skip this one!
Thanks for Laura and Valentine PR for this ALC!
December 16, 2025
4.5⭐️ | 2.5🌶
I love a good friends to lovers and Axel and Wren were that and more. I loved them, their bond. What they were put through was insane. But i loved that they found their way back to each other. I loved their bonds with Melody. She is just precious. Another great trip to Rosewood River. Thank you to valentine pr for this arc
I love a good friends to lovers and Axel and Wren were that and more. I loved them, their bond. What they were put through was insane. But i loved that they found their way back to each other. I loved their bonds with Melody. She is just precious. Another great trip to Rosewood River. Thank you to valentine pr for this arc
January 11, 2026
This would have been a 5 star if it wasn't for the miscommunication trope.
I love the Chad-six text messages. The boys have such a fun relationship, and I love how supportive the family is to each other. The friendship between the girls was so sweet and funny. Their night out truing to figure out who is behind the Taylor Tea column was hilarious. I cannot wait to see who it is, and I have some theories.
-childhood friends - lovers - enemies- lovers
-forced proximity
-"it's always been you"
-secret tattoo
-small town
-second chance
I love the Chad-six text messages. The boys have such a fun relationship, and I love how supportive the family is to each other. The friendship between the girls was so sweet and funny. Their night out truing to figure out who is behind the Taylor Tea column was hilarious. I cannot wait to see who it is, and I have some theories.
-childhood friends - lovers - enemies- lovers
-forced proximity
-"it's always been you"
-secret tattoo
-small town
-second chance
January 6, 2026
This story follows Wren and Axel, who grew up together and were always by each other’s side. Before everything changed, they crossed a line but then something unforgivable happened, leaving Wren heartbroken and left town to follow her passion of horse riding competitively. Two years later, after no contact, Wren now one of the most decorated equestrian riders in the world returns for a temporary job at Axel’s ranch. What could possibly go wrong?
I love when characters have a shared history from growing up together it instantly makes you feel connected to them and adds so much depth. I absolutely loved Wren and Axel together. There’s just something about a man who’s been quietly pining from the sidelines, even after years of not speaking, that gets me every time.
My heart really hurt for Wren in this book, especially with everything surrounding her horse. The person responsible made me furious on her behalf. Axel is easily one of my favourite MMCs I’ve read in a while what he stands for, the way he shows up, and all the little things he did while Wren had no idea completely won me over.
Lastly, the audiobook is brilliant. I highly recommend picking this one up in that format.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 8hrs 45mins
Narrators: Samantha Brentmoor and Alex Knox - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️
POV: First Person
Series or Standalone: Book Five In The Rosewood River Series
Tropes or Themes: Small Town, Friends to Enemies to Lovers, Cowboy, Workplace, Sports (Equestrian) Intimate Tattoo, Past Memories, Chemistry, Soul Mates, Grand Gesture, Skinny Dipping, Lack Of Communication, Intimate Tattoos, Friends With Benefits, Its Always With You, Family Drama, Betrayal, Lies, Years Lost, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Dry Humping Scene and Taken Bare.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
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I love when characters have a shared history from growing up together it instantly makes you feel connected to them and adds so much depth. I absolutely loved Wren and Axel together. There’s just something about a man who’s been quietly pining from the sidelines, even after years of not speaking, that gets me every time.
My heart really hurt for Wren in this book, especially with everything surrounding her horse. The person responsible made me furious on her behalf. Axel is easily one of my favourite MMCs I’ve read in a while what he stands for, the way he shows up, and all the little things he did while Wren had no idea completely won me over.
Lastly, the audiobook is brilliant. I highly recommend picking this one up in that format.
Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 8hrs 45mins
Narrators: Samantha Brentmoor and Alex Knox - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️
POV: First Person
Series or Standalone: Book Five In The Rosewood River Series
Tropes or Themes: Small Town, Friends to Enemies to Lovers, Cowboy, Workplace, Sports (Equestrian) Intimate Tattoo, Past Memories, Chemistry, Soul Mates, Grand Gesture, Skinny Dipping, Lack Of Communication, Intimate Tattoos, Friends With Benefits, Its Always With You, Family Drama, Betrayal, Lies, Years Lost, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Dry Humping Scene and Taken Bare.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
December 17, 2025
The count down is real folks. We're winding down our time in Rosewood River!! This one is a friends (kinda enemies) second chance (real chance) romance between Wren Waterstone and Axel Chadwick.
While this could be read as a standalone, there's some backstory to this couple. Their siblings used to be engaged. Thankfully, Emerson found something better. But lets just say there's still some bad blood. And these two haven't really talked since then.
Wren is a gifted equestrian. One of the best. But after a tumble, her beloved horse was sold underneath her (oooo it's gonna make you mad!) And she just hasnt gotten her mojo back. Her family life has imploded. With no where to go, she goes back home but its definitely not the home she left.
Axel needs some help. His business is booming and he cant keep up. So someone is looking for a job. Someone needs to hire someone. Lol, the set up scene? Wren is really kinda floundering. And Axel? You know he wants to help, even if he tells us he doesnt.
I loved the jobs these two had, it was a little different than others I'd read. And the Chadwicks are all over this one. Which we want! This is the first book with the cousins, so it was a little bit different family dynamics than the other books. But not too different. Because they are all up in each others business like ever other time. (The hilarity in the chats!)
I loved seeing these two navigate their new reality together. There was some animosity and confusion, but Axel quickly proves how much he loves Wren.
Loved the ending. Exactly where we wanted these two to end up.
While this could be read as a standalone, there's some backstory to this couple. Their siblings used to be engaged. Thankfully, Emerson found something better. But lets just say there's still some bad blood. And these two haven't really talked since then.
Wren is a gifted equestrian. One of the best. But after a tumble, her beloved horse was sold underneath her (oooo it's gonna make you mad!) And she just hasnt gotten her mojo back. Her family life has imploded. With no where to go, she goes back home but its definitely not the home she left.
Axel needs some help. His business is booming and he cant keep up. So someone is looking for a job. Someone needs to hire someone. Lol, the set up scene? Wren is really kinda floundering. And Axel? You know he wants to help, even if he tells us he doesnt.
I loved the jobs these two had, it was a little different than others I'd read. And the Chadwicks are all over this one. Which we want! This is the first book with the cousins, so it was a little bit different family dynamics than the other books. But not too different. Because they are all up in each others business like ever other time. (The hilarity in the chats!)
I loved seeing these two navigate their new reality together. There was some animosity and confusion, but Axel quickly proves how much he loves Wren.
Loved the ending. Exactly where we wanted these two to end up.
December 17, 2025
Rating: 4.25⭐️ | Spice: 2🌶️ | Audio: 5🎙️
What to Expect:
Cowboy Romance
Small Town
Second Chance
Childhood Best Friends
Forbidden Love
Forced Proximity
Friends-to-Hate-to-Love
Thank you so much @laurapavlovauthor and @valentine_pr_ for the gifted ALC.
“Like isn’t it ironic. I found the love of my life when he’s been there the whole time, and I was too scared to see it.”
Review Title & Vibes:
{MY HEART GOES PITTER PATTER} for this childhood best friends to lovers story.
Wren and Axel were best friends from childhood. Wild and free, riding their horses across the pastures of Rosewood River. They took a chance on “more”, right before the bond between them snapped. Years later, the unresolved hurt coupled with forced proximity push them to reveal the true cause of the rift. When the dust settles, will they let love pass them by a second time?
Things I Loved:
-Their friendship - it’s adorable in the younger years, full of angst in their teens, and full blown chemistry as adults.
-The support and understanding they have for each other (which totally translates to the bedroom).
-The spice - Axel gives those bossy cowboy vibes and Wren shows her riding skills are handy in the bedroom.
-The drama - all the outside pressure and family dynamics create a complicated enemy.
-The girl gang - the Rosewood ladies SHOW UP.
-The HEA/Epilogue was PERFECT!
Audio Notes:
{duet} Sam and Alex were a fanstastic cast for Wren and Axel. The performance had all those angsty friendship moments and underlying pain before the big reveal. I loved the bantering and flirting. I highly recommend this audiobook.
Recommended to...
Small town romance readers who need to see the best friends get their second chance.
Narrated by @Ms_Brentmoor @thealexknox
Produced by @lyricaudiobooks
What to Expect:
Cowboy Romance
Small Town
Second Chance
Childhood Best Friends
Forbidden Love
Forced Proximity
Friends-to-Hate-to-Love
Thank you so much @laurapavlovauthor and @valentine_pr_ for the gifted ALC.
“Like isn’t it ironic. I found the love of my life when he’s been there the whole time, and I was too scared to see it.”
Review Title & Vibes:
{MY HEART GOES PITTER PATTER} for this childhood best friends to lovers story.
Wren and Axel were best friends from childhood. Wild and free, riding their horses across the pastures of Rosewood River. They took a chance on “more”, right before the bond between them snapped. Years later, the unresolved hurt coupled with forced proximity push them to reveal the true cause of the rift. When the dust settles, will they let love pass them by a second time?
Things I Loved:
-Their friendship - it’s adorable in the younger years, full of angst in their teens, and full blown chemistry as adults.
-The support and understanding they have for each other (which totally translates to the bedroom).
-The spice - Axel gives those bossy cowboy vibes and Wren shows her riding skills are handy in the bedroom.
-The drama - all the outside pressure and family dynamics create a complicated enemy.
-The girl gang - the Rosewood ladies SHOW UP.
-The HEA/Epilogue was PERFECT!
Audio Notes:
{duet} Sam and Alex were a fanstastic cast for Wren and Axel. The performance had all those angsty friendship moments and underlying pain before the big reveal. I loved the bantering and flirting. I highly recommend this audiobook.
Recommended to...
Small town romance readers who need to see the best friends get their second chance.
Narrated by @Ms_Brentmoor @thealexknox
Produced by @lyricaudiobooks
December 16, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶🌶
Axel and Wren had been best friends their whole lives, until she left to become a successful Equestrian
🐎 and never looked back. So what happens when 2 years later, Wren shows up on Axel's ranch needing a job? Just remember Roses, true love never dies 😍
Truly the purest type of love is between these two. An undeniable, unconditional love that everyone deserves to know. The unquestionable commitment to each other had me swooning at every turn of the page. Wren is the perfect addition to our Rosewood River crew!
🌶🌶
Axel and Wren had been best friends their whole lives, until she left to become a successful Equestrian
🐎 and never looked back. So what happens when 2 years later, Wren shows up on Axel's ranch needing a job? Just remember Roses, true love never dies 😍
Truly the purest type of love is between these two. An undeniable, unconditional love that everyone deserves to know. The unquestionable commitment to each other had me swooning at every turn of the page. Wren is the perfect addition to our Rosewood River crew!
January 6, 2026
Between a 4 & 4 1/2 🌟
December 27, 2025
I wanted to love this so so so much! I was beyond excited for Wren & Axels story. The miscommunication for me was just a lot. I don’t normally gravitate to friends to lovers and their story made me excited but something about this I just could not enjoy. I’ve loved this series with everything I have, and this cowboy romance just felt like I was in a completely different series. I had to keep reminding myself I was reading a Rosewood River book. The nick name horse girl just made me cringe 🫠🫠🫠🫠
I don’t know I just felt like I was in Rosehill and not Rosewood River.
Thank you so much to Valentine PR for this ARC copy 🩷
I don’t know I just felt like I was in Rosehill and not Rosewood River.
Thank you so much to Valentine PR for this ARC copy 🩷
December 16, 2025
“I may not have liked the obstacles we’d faced to get here – but there was no question, it was worth the wait.
She was worth the fucking wait.”
4.5 stars
This is the most beautiful friends-to-lovers romance! A small-town, forced proximity, childhood best-friends to sort-of-enemies to lovers love story, Axel and Wren have a true soulmate connection and their romance is sweet, sexy, functional and gorgeously swoony, and I loved their story.
This is the fifth book in the Rosewood River series. You can read it as a standalone, but note that the series is based around a group of siblings and cousins and there is a lot of character crossover and ongoing jokes. But enough background is giving where you won’t feel lost if you pick this one up on its own.
Wren and Axel were teenage best friends, the one that they depended on to just be themselves and each other’s ‘person’. One night they crossed the line into more and were on the cusp of everything they had both dreamed of when it all went wrong. Wren left town, and it’s been two years since they’ve spoken. Now, she’s back and has taken a temp job at Axel’s ranch and they’re forced together once again.
It's a good set-up and full of chemistry from the very beginning. You can see there are secrets and so much pain between them, and there is some snark and bickering, but their feelings for each other run deep and it doesn’t take long for them to address their past and find their way back to where they once were.
I love a functional romance, and these two are just magic together! Once they actually start talking, it's so easy! They come together naturally, there’s no game-playing or wondering where they are at. They talk, they’re open about everything, and they fall into the most beautifully honest and heartfelt relationship.
There is drama happening outside of the relationship – Wren has some pretty significant family issues going on, and she is a champion equestrian coming off a serious injury and fighting to get back into the career that she loves. She’s figuring out what she wants her life to be, and Axel absolutely shines as the sweet-hearted, supportive friend and lover. He is by Wren’s side without question, and the way he supports and defends her while encouraging her to chase her dreams is just gorgeous.
The rest of Axel’s family are all a big part of the story, and I loved seeing them all together. The guys’ group chats, the girls’ drunken nights out, and the whole crew together are so much fun, and I laughed a lot at their antics.
I loved being back with this family group, and enjoyed this book so much. I’m excited for Archer’s book coming up next to finish off the series.
4.5 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
She was worth the fucking wait.”
4.5 stars
This is the most beautiful friends-to-lovers romance! A small-town, forced proximity, childhood best-friends to sort-of-enemies to lovers love story, Axel and Wren have a true soulmate connection and their romance is sweet, sexy, functional and gorgeously swoony, and I loved their story.
This is the fifth book in the Rosewood River series. You can read it as a standalone, but note that the series is based around a group of siblings and cousins and there is a lot of character crossover and ongoing jokes. But enough background is giving where you won’t feel lost if you pick this one up on its own.
Wren and Axel were teenage best friends, the one that they depended on to just be themselves and each other’s ‘person’. One night they crossed the line into more and were on the cusp of everything they had both dreamed of when it all went wrong. Wren left town, and it’s been two years since they’ve spoken. Now, she’s back and has taken a temp job at Axel’s ranch and they’re forced together once again.
“You are the one who left me. You are the one who didn’t speak to me for two fucking years. And I’m still the guy standing here, showing up for you.”
It's a good set-up and full of chemistry from the very beginning. You can see there are secrets and so much pain between them, and there is some snark and bickering, but their feelings for each other run deep and it doesn’t take long for them to address their past and find their way back to where they once were.
“It’s always been you and me, Wren. I’ve got you.”
I love a functional romance, and these two are just magic together! Once they actually start talking, it's so easy! They come together naturally, there’s no game-playing or wondering where they are at. They talk, they’re open about everything, and they fall into the most beautifully honest and heartfelt relationship.
“Are you in love with your best friend, Wren?” I asked.
“I have been for a very long time. But I didn’t think you felt the same way.”
“I’ve loved you my whole life.”
There is drama happening outside of the relationship – Wren has some pretty significant family issues going on, and she is a champion equestrian coming off a serious injury and fighting to get back into the career that she loves. She’s figuring out what she wants her life to be, and Axel absolutely shines as the sweet-hearted, supportive friend and lover. He is by Wren’s side without question, and the way he supports and defends her while encouraging her to chase her dreams is just gorgeous.
The rest of Axel’s family are all a big part of the story, and I loved seeing them all together. The guys’ group chats, the girls’ drunken nights out, and the whole crew together are so much fun, and I laughed a lot at their antics.
I loved being back with this family group, and enjoyed this book so much. I’m excited for Archer’s book coming up next to finish off the series.
4.5 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
December 5, 2025
My favorite Laura Pavlov to date!
Thanks so much to Laura Pavlov + her team, as well as Must Love Audio, for the ALC! These are my honest thoughts.
Wren Waterstone and Axel Chadwick were best friends, once upon a time. Their childhood was surrounded with horses and love, and they grew into their feelings as they got older. When they finally acted on their feelings, though, everything came crumbling down around them, and they haven't seen or spoken to each other in TWO YEARS.
Wren is back in town, after experiencing an accident during an equestrian event with her beloved horse, and she's trying to get back on her feet. A temp job at her ex-best friend's company was NOT on her BINGO card, but beggars can't be choosers, and she's sticking with it. Axel is... upset that Wren is home and he doesn't know what's going on with her. He's followed her since she left, he's hurt that she left without another word, and he's cautious interacting with her because he doesn't want her to leave again without a trace.
Day by day, these two fall back into their friendship like putting on your favorite sweatshirt. And when Horse Girl and Cowboy start being themselves again, they both get clarity on what happened in the past. Mistakes were made, and misinformation was taken as truth, and they lost time with each other. And as Wren's family falls apart, Axel reinforces her found family in Rosewood River. And when Wren leaves for a competition, they both promise that it'll be different this time, and... that they'll be there for each other, in a heartbeat.
READ IF YOU LOVE:
- Cowboy x Horse Girl
- Small town
- Found family
- Best friends to lovers
- Second chance
- Matching tattoos
- Secret tattoos
- Family DRAMA
- Forced proximity
- The family group chat
- Setting boundaries
- When you realize your best friend has literally BEEN THERE for you, always
- It's always been you!
THE AUDIO! Samantha Brentmoor and Alex Knox DUET NARRATE this story, and it's AMAZING. I was so engrossed in the story, and I loved every minute of 1. the bitterness of returning home, 2. the challenge of working next to the person you've loved for what feels like forever, 3. the heartbreak of learning things about people you love that just don't make sense, 4. the relief of finding out the truth, and 5. reuniting with your BEST friend and love of your life after years apart. I went through the emotions in this story with the best pairing for these incredible characters, and their story is one worth listening to if you love audiobooks! 5 stars all around!
Thanks so much to Laura Pavlov + her team, as well as Must Love Audio, for the ALC! These are my honest thoughts.
Wren Waterstone and Axel Chadwick were best friends, once upon a time. Their childhood was surrounded with horses and love, and they grew into their feelings as they got older. When they finally acted on their feelings, though, everything came crumbling down around them, and they haven't seen or spoken to each other in TWO YEARS.
Wren is back in town, after experiencing an accident during an equestrian event with her beloved horse, and she's trying to get back on her feet. A temp job at her ex-best friend's company was NOT on her BINGO card, but beggars can't be choosers, and she's sticking with it. Axel is... upset that Wren is home and he doesn't know what's going on with her. He's followed her since she left, he's hurt that she left without another word, and he's cautious interacting with her because he doesn't want her to leave again without a trace.
Day by day, these two fall back into their friendship like putting on your favorite sweatshirt. And when Horse Girl and Cowboy start being themselves again, they both get clarity on what happened in the past. Mistakes were made, and misinformation was taken as truth, and they lost time with each other. And as Wren's family falls apart, Axel reinforces her found family in Rosewood River. And when Wren leaves for a competition, they both promise that it'll be different this time, and... that they'll be there for each other, in a heartbeat.
READ IF YOU LOVE:
- Cowboy x Horse Girl
- Small town
- Found family
- Best friends to lovers
- Second chance
- Matching tattoos
- Secret tattoos
- Family DRAMA
- Forced proximity
- The family group chat
- Setting boundaries
- When you realize your best friend has literally BEEN THERE for you, always
- It's always been you!
THE AUDIO! Samantha Brentmoor and Alex Knox DUET NARRATE this story, and it's AMAZING. I was so engrossed in the story, and I loved every minute of 1. the bitterness of returning home, 2. the challenge of working next to the person you've loved for what feels like forever, 3. the heartbreak of learning things about people you love that just don't make sense, 4. the relief of finding out the truth, and 5. reuniting with your BEST friend and love of your life after years apart. I went through the emotions in this story with the best pairing for these incredible characters, and their story is one worth listening to if you love audiobooks! 5 stars all around!
December 7, 2025
Thank you once again Valentine PR for this ARC!
Another amazing 5⭐️ read in the Rosewood River series. Idk why this book made me so emotional lol maybe it’s because I used to be a girl who loved her horse more than anything. So I felt so much for Wren and her love and connection with Wrax.
Now, her friendship, connection and chemistry with sexy Axel was everything. Most definitely top tier friends to lovers. Axel SCREAMS green flag. The way he is so supportive of Wren, even when they weren’t speaking for those 2 years. He truly does love his Horse Girl. Wren was a strong FMC, I loved her character development and how she stood up for herself and went for what SHE wanted.
Each book in this series just keeps getting better and better. I feel like I have built such a bond with these characters. And one of my favorite things is the banter between the brothers and cousins, their text messages are everything and always have me laughing. I will be so sad when the 6th book is done because I don’t want this series to end, BUT I am SOOOO ready for single Daddy X Nanny! 🙌🏼
Another amazing 5⭐️ read in the Rosewood River series. Idk why this book made me so emotional lol maybe it’s because I used to be a girl who loved her horse more than anything. So I felt so much for Wren and her love and connection with Wrax.
Now, her friendship, connection and chemistry with sexy Axel was everything. Most definitely top tier friends to lovers. Axel SCREAMS green flag. The way he is so supportive of Wren, even when they weren’t speaking for those 2 years. He truly does love his Horse Girl. Wren was a strong FMC, I loved her character development and how she stood up for herself and went for what SHE wanted.
Each book in this series just keeps getting better and better. I feel like I have built such a bond with these characters. And one of my favorite things is the banter between the brothers and cousins, their text messages are everything and always have me laughing. I will be so sad when the 6th book is done because I don’t want this series to end, BUT I am SOOOO ready for single Daddy X Nanny! 🙌🏼
December 17, 2025
one of my favorite books in the rosewood river series! second chance is one of my absolute favorites and Laura always does them SO well. I am so obsessed with Axel and Wren. the tension and angst of how much they have cared for each other for so many years had me down bad for both of them. there is always something so special about a small town written by Laura! she always writes the perfect amount of swoon, spice, and emotion in each of her stories. truly the all around perfect balance that makes me wanting more immediately after. both of these characters were super easy to love, and seeing them fall for each other again was perfection. I have been absolutely devouring this series and cannot believe that we only have 1 more book left.
the narration was SO good. you can’t even go wrong with Samantha and Alex was a new to me narrator. He was fantastic and I am looking forward to hearing more books that use his voice!
read if you like:
second chance
forbidden
cowboy
childhood best friends
to enemies to lovers
small town
December 12, 2025
In a Heartbeat by Laura Pavlov absolutely wrecked me in the best way 🤍 Wren and Axel’s story is a deeply emotional friends to enemies to lovers romance that proves some connections never really break. Wren is a world class equestrian and an absolute badass who returns to Rosewood River wounded and guarded, and Alex—her once best friend turned reluctant boss—is the most supportive, steady cowboy hero who never stopped loving her. The forced proximity at his ranch, the unresolved hurt between them, and Wren’s heartbreaking family drama made their journey back to each other feel so raw and earned. I adored how his family wrapped Wren in the love and safety she deserved, and how their lifelong friendship laid the foundation for a romance that felt inevitable. Banter, heart, charm, and just the right amount of spice—Laura Pavlov truly is the queen of small town romance for me. And the fact that the next book is the last in the series?! I’m not okay 😭
Tropes:
🤍 Friends to Enemies to Lovers
🏡 Small Town
💔 Second Chance
🤠 Cowboy
🔥 Forced Proximity
Tropes:
🤍 Friends to Enemies to Lovers
🏡 Small Town
💔 Second Chance
🤠 Cowboy
🔥 Forced Proximity
December 16, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨ 5⭐️ This is my favorite one of the series yet!! Wren and Axel have been best friends since they were kids. The had a shared love of horses and bond that could not be broken. Until it was…Wren finds herself back in Rosewood River with a temp job at a ranch. Not just any ranch…Axel’s ranch…and now that she’s back he is determined to figure out what happened that made her run and not look back. She may be closed off but he’s going to do everything he can to get his best friend back. It turns out his feelings for her never went away and now that she’s back in his life he doesn’t want to let her go. She’s a champion equestrian with dreams to chase though and those dreams may just take her away from Rosewood River.
Oh how I love this story so so much!! Wren and Axel have such a strong connection that even years apart didn’t dull any of the feelings they had for one another. Wren comes back to Rosewood River even more broken than when she left and even though they are no longer friends Axel still does everything he can to heal those broken pieces. Everyone needs an Axel Chadwick because oh my goodness is this man one of the good ones!! I could not get enough of these two! Axel is there to support Wren in chasing her dreams no matter where they lead. The Chadwick family group chat is back again and even better. I cannot get over the banter the brothers and cousins have! I was cracking up so much with this one and not just at the group text but also the shenanigans they all get up to!! Truly just so good!! I promise this is one you won’t want to miss!!!
Tropes:
✨Small Town Romance
✨Friends to Enemies to Lovers
✨Cowboy Romance
✨Forced Proximity
✨Childhood Sweethearts
Oh how I love this story so so much!! Wren and Axel have such a strong connection that even years apart didn’t dull any of the feelings they had for one another. Wren comes back to Rosewood River even more broken than when she left and even though they are no longer friends Axel still does everything he can to heal those broken pieces. Everyone needs an Axel Chadwick because oh my goodness is this man one of the good ones!! I could not get enough of these two! Axel is there to support Wren in chasing her dreams no matter where they lead. The Chadwick family group chat is back again and even better. I cannot get over the banter the brothers and cousins have! I was cracking up so much with this one and not just at the group text but also the shenanigans they all get up to!! Truly just so good!! I promise this is one you won’t want to miss!!!
Tropes:
✨Small Town Romance
✨Friends to Enemies to Lovers
✨Cowboy Romance
✨Forced Proximity
✨Childhood Sweethearts
December 18, 2025
I am so in love with Axel and Wren! These two went from childhood best friends to enemies with a world of hurt between them, and watching their journey back to each other was EVERYTHING.
Wren is a total badass — confident, determined, and relentless in going after what she wants. And Axel? Swoon central. He shows up for Wren again and again, even when they’re barely speaking, proving he’s always been her safe place. heir connection feels meant to be, and I was rooting for them the whole time.
This book delivers ALL the feels. I laughed at the brother text banter, cheered on the girl gang, and fell head-over-heels for Axel & Wren’s second chance at love. Even though this is Book 5 in the Rosewood River series, it stands beautifully on its own — whether you’ve read the others or not.
f you love childhood best friends-to-lovers, forced proximity, emotional healing, and guaranteed HEAs, In a Heartbeat deserves a top spot on your TBR. Laura Pavlov crafts amazing stories, but the way she handles the friends-to-lovers trope is something truly special. This small town romance will make you swoon, and the subtle second chance vibes are just the cherry on top of the best cake.
Wren is a total badass — confident, determined, and relentless in going after what she wants. And Axel? Swoon central. He shows up for Wren again and again, even when they’re barely speaking, proving he’s always been her safe place. heir connection feels meant to be, and I was rooting for them the whole time.
This book delivers ALL the feels. I laughed at the brother text banter, cheered on the girl gang, and fell head-over-heels for Axel & Wren’s second chance at love. Even though this is Book 5 in the Rosewood River series, it stands beautifully on its own — whether you’ve read the others or not.
f you love childhood best friends-to-lovers, forced proximity, emotional healing, and guaranteed HEAs, In a Heartbeat deserves a top spot on your TBR. Laura Pavlov crafts amazing stories, but the way she handles the friends-to-lovers trope is something truly special. This small town romance will make you swoon, and the subtle second chance vibes are just the cherry on top of the best cake.
January 3, 2026
4.5 stars
I am such a friends to lovers girl I had no doubt I would love these two.
Axel and Wren had the “I could never do life without you” in the first few chapter. They were bestfriends almost their whole lives… until they weren’t. With Wren showing back up in town, even Axel knows he will fight for whatever kind of relationship he can get with her.
He lost her once, and he won’t do it again. Except he doesn’t even know what truly happened between them..
When everything comes out and they lost so much time- it made my heart hurt. But I knew Laura would give us the ending we deserve!! AND SHE SURE DID!!
I am such a friends to lovers girl I had no doubt I would love these two.
Axel and Wren had the “I could never do life without you” in the first few chapter. They were bestfriends almost their whole lives… until they weren’t. With Wren showing back up in town, even Axel knows he will fight for whatever kind of relationship he can get with her.
He lost her once, and he won’t do it again. Except he doesn’t even know what truly happened between them..
When everything comes out and they lost so much time- it made my heart hurt. But I knew Laura would give us the ending we deserve!! AND SHE SURE DID!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a story about friends to lovers who go two years without speaking.....and their second chance at finding their way back to each other. I was here for their banter, even when they were angry. The small town they live in sounds dreamy but the newspaper gossip column sure knows how to rile people up.
Axel was like a golden retriever mixed with protective, jealous, and the most thoughtful man ever. Wren was easy to love but she had a lot of people in her life that did her dirty.
I loved when Axel put people in their place and was not having any disrespect for her. Wren and Wrax made the ultimate team and I loved how their story unfolded.
🫶🏽 Parts I Loved:
A real cowgirl can do it all herself...but a real cowboy won't let her.
The way he looks at you--its very telling. And you, my friend, you look at him like you want to ride the boloney pony.
To-mate-oh, po-tat-oh.
Horse Girl
Cowboy
The texts between brothers
Hey, fool me once, shame on me. Fool me twice, you better cover your junk because I'm coming for you.
Bookclub
The attempted break in 🤣
Axel was like a golden retriever mixed with protective, jealous, and the most thoughtful man ever. Wren was easy to love but she had a lot of people in her life that did her dirty.
I loved when Axel put people in their place and was not having any disrespect for her. Wren and Wrax made the ultimate team and I loved how their story unfolded.
🫶🏽 Parts I Loved:
A real cowgirl can do it all herself...but a real cowboy won't let her.
The way he looks at you--its very telling. And you, my friend, you look at him like you want to ride the boloney pony.
To-mate-oh, po-tat-oh.
Horse Girl
Cowboy
The texts between brothers
Hey, fool me once, shame on me. Fool me twice, you better cover your junk because I'm coming for you.
Bookclub
The attempted break in 🤣
December 21, 2025
This was my first book by the author and therefore I haven’t read any other books in this series. I read it as a true standalone and I’m sure that severely impacted my enjoyment of the story. Wren and Axel are ex best friends and formerly had a thing but due to some miscommunication haven’t spoken in years.
My main issue with this story was I felt super lost when it came to the side characters and previous events that were glossed over. Like the group chat with a bunch of different names felt super confusing to me and I’m sure fans of the series loved it. However, it made me frustrated. Also I hated the nickname Horsegirl. It gave me the ick 😅
Thank you so much to Entangled for the ARC and bookmail!
My main issue with this story was I felt super lost when it came to the side characters and previous events that were glossed over. Like the group chat with a bunch of different names felt super confusing to me and I’m sure fans of the series loved it. However, it made me frustrated. Also I hated the nickname Horsegirl. It gave me the ick 😅
Thank you so much to Entangled for the ARC and bookmail!
December 21, 2025
OMG all the feels this is the best book in the series. I love Horse Girl and I really Loved Axel. These two are my favorite couple of the year! This is one cowboy romance you don't want to miss. I HIGHLY recommend it. The ending really got me.
Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
December 18, 2025
wrax forever!!!!! wren and axel have my heart fr fr
read if you like:
second chance
cowboy romance🤠
found family (the best)
childhood best friends to enemies to lovers 🫦🫦🫦🫦
small town
read if you like:
second chance
cowboy romance🤠
found family (the best)
childhood best friends to enemies to lovers 🫦🫦🫦🫦
small town
December 3, 2025
Axel + Wren
-small town romance
-friends to hate to lovers
-second chance romance
-cowboy x equestrian
-forced proximity
ahhhh another chadwick down...& we only have one more left!! this one was soooo dang cute & had a lot of complex family issues with wrens family. they were like THE WORSTTT woah!
-small town romance
-friends to hate to lovers
-second chance romance
-cowboy x equestrian
-forced proximity
ahhhh another chadwick down...& we only have one more left!! this one was soooo dang cute & had a lot of complex family issues with wrens family. they were like THE WORSTTT woah!
December 17, 2025
I feel like I read a different book than everyone else. This book was so repetitive and boring. The issue the two main characters had was really just hard to believe knowing their background. And the way everything just wrapped up was too easy.
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