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Kelly Ranch
Hold the Line
Deacon Slater was my high school crush—the bad boy with haunted eyes that made my heart skip a beat. But in our small town, the Slater name is synonymous with trouble, and Deke lived up to it when he landed in prison a few years after graduation.
He served his time and now he’s back, living in the apartment above mine, covered in ink and even more intriguing than before.
As the owner of Sugar Rush bakery, I’m used to building bridges with my muffins and cookies. I’ve seen cowboys nearly come to blows over the last lemon bar. But Deke wants nothing to do with my treats…or me. He keeps his distance, barely speaking when I knock on his door.
Until the day he doesn’t have a choice.
He’s there when I need him, stepping in to protect me, showing me the caring man beneath his rough edges.
We couldn’t be more different. I’m a curvy ray of sunshine in a pink apron and he’s a stoic, tattooed carpenter in work boots. But the more walls we tear down, the closer we get. And piece by piece, we discover how well we fit.
But when darkness from his past comes looking for him, what we’re building could all fall apart. Because this time, trouble isn’t just circling Deacon Slater.
It’s coming for us both.
(This is Phoebe Kelly's story and can be read as a complete standalone!)
He served his time and now he’s back, living in the apartment above mine, covered in ink and even more intriguing than before.
As the owner of Sugar Rush bakery, I’m used to building bridges with my muffins and cookies. I’ve seen cowboys nearly come to blows over the last lemon bar. But Deke wants nothing to do with my treats…or me. He keeps his distance, barely speaking when I knock on his door.
Until the day he doesn’t have a choice.
He’s there when I need him, stepping in to protect me, showing me the caring man beneath his rough edges.
We couldn’t be more different. I’m a curvy ray of sunshine in a pink apron and he’s a stoic, tattooed carpenter in work boots. But the more walls we tear down, the closer we get. And piece by piece, we discover how well we fit.
But when darkness from his past comes looking for him, what we’re building could all fall apart. Because this time, trouble isn’t just circling Deacon Slater.
It’s coming for us both.
(This is Phoebe Kelly's story and can be read as a complete standalone!)
369 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 15, 2025
830 people are currently reading
1789 people want to read
About the author
Julia Wolf
49 books3,495 followersJulia lives in Maryland with her patient husband and three crazy, beautiful kids!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 491 reviews
July 27, 2025
Reread in July 2025 for Patron
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Every time I think I've seen everything this author can give me. When I think I know what to expect... I get my mind blown. I find myself shook and surprised in a totally new way.
I've seen her write possessive and protective, I've seen her write caring and kind, I've seen her write a whirlwind romance that sweeps me off my feet. I love all those things. Then there is Deacon and Phoebe. Then there is the meaning of... Hold the Line.
But let me back up a bit.
Deacon has lived through a lot and he bears his scars in stoic silence a lot of the time. Feeling people's judgmental stares and trying to keep to his business. But then, his beautiful, nosey neighbor, who just happens to be his high school crush, keeps butting in with her smiles and her baked goods. He just can't help but be pulled into her orbit.
Phoebe is a ray of sunshine. She comes from a wonderful family, she has a successful bakery, and heart full of compassion. When she learns her new neighbor is boy she knew from school, who just so happens to be an ex-con, she isn't deterred for a minute. She marches right up with some "welcome to town" goodies. Deacon is cautious and a bit standoffish to start, but he really can't help but be won over by her.
After an incident at her bakery, that Deacon steps in for, he starts seeing her home from work every day. She keeps bugging him to try her food and he keeps making her things and bringing her flowers. It's all adorable as hell. Deacon can't see how he can possibly be worthy of her but Phoebe is a grown woman and she won't let anyone tell her who to love, not even Deacon.
But the man still has some secrets and that's the one thing Phoebe can't stand.
I'll admit, I didn't really think much about what this book title could mean. I just shrugged and dug into the story. But when a side character, Tilly, asks Phoebe to "Hold the line," for Deacon, I decided to look it up. To see what context I could draw from it myself.
One of the definitions of the phrase is this: To not yield to the pressure of a difficult situation.
Huh... it definitely has meaning for this situation they are in, but Phoebe doesn't necessarily grasp the full weight of what Tilly is asking just then. Phoebe just wants things to work out with Deacon but she needs him to want it too. Why can't he just spill everything to her? Let's them work through it together.
Deacon is guarded that's true, but most of all, he's guarding HER, or so he thinks, from his past. He doesn't want any of that filth touching his "Angel girl", even if that means he has to lose her.
But then... each time Phoebe repeats "Hold the Line," to herself, she gains a little more strength for it. It becomes a mantra, and something to lean into when times are tough. It truly unfolds in such a beautiful way. One I never could have expected.
This story has all the swoon, romance, and deeply intimate moments that you'd expect from Julia Wolf. I honestly am not even surprised anymore that she seems to have permanently placed herself on my 6 Star shelf. This was a favorite of the year, hands down. I want to reread it already, right this minute.
6 Stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: Abusive family members, parental abandonment, severe allergy rep, kidnapping, gun violence, discussion of time behind bars
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*
.
.
.
.
Every time I think I've seen everything this author can give me. When I think I know what to expect... I get my mind blown. I find myself shook and surprised in a totally new way.
I've seen her write possessive and protective, I've seen her write caring and kind, I've seen her write a whirlwind romance that sweeps me off my feet. I love all those things. Then there is Deacon and Phoebe. Then there is the meaning of... Hold the Line.
But let me back up a bit.
Deacon has lived through a lot and he bears his scars in stoic silence a lot of the time. Feeling people's judgmental stares and trying to keep to his business. But then, his beautiful, nosey neighbor, who just happens to be his high school crush, keeps butting in with her smiles and her baked goods. He just can't help but be pulled into her orbit.
Phoebe is a ray of sunshine. She comes from a wonderful family, she has a successful bakery, and heart full of compassion. When she learns her new neighbor is boy she knew from school, who just so happens to be an ex-con, she isn't deterred for a minute. She marches right up with some "welcome to town" goodies. Deacon is cautious and a bit standoffish to start, but he really can't help but be won over by her.
After an incident at her bakery, that Deacon steps in for, he starts seeing her home from work every day. She keeps bugging him to try her food and he keeps making her things and bringing her flowers. It's all adorable as hell. Deacon can't see how he can possibly be worthy of her but Phoebe is a grown woman and she won't let anyone tell her who to love, not even Deacon.
But the man still has some secrets and that's the one thing Phoebe can't stand.
I'll admit, I didn't really think much about what this book title could mean. I just shrugged and dug into the story. But when a side character, Tilly, asks Phoebe to "Hold the line," for Deacon, I decided to look it up. To see what context I could draw from it myself.
One of the definitions of the phrase is this: To not yield to the pressure of a difficult situation.
Huh... it definitely has meaning for this situation they are in, but Phoebe doesn't necessarily grasp the full weight of what Tilly is asking just then. Phoebe just wants things to work out with Deacon but she needs him to want it too. Why can't he just spill everything to her? Let's them work through it together.
Deacon is guarded that's true, but most of all, he's guarding HER, or so he thinks, from his past. He doesn't want any of that filth touching his "Angel girl", even if that means he has to lose her.
But then... each time Phoebe repeats "Hold the Line," to herself, she gains a little more strength for it. It becomes a mantra, and something to lean into when times are tough. It truly unfolds in such a beautiful way. One I never could have expected.
This story has all the swoon, romance, and deeply intimate moments that you'd expect from Julia Wolf. I honestly am not even surprised anymore that she seems to have permanently placed herself on my 6 Star shelf. This was a favorite of the year, hands down. I want to reread it already, right this minute.
6 Stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: Abusive family members, parental abandonment, severe allergy rep, kidnapping, gun violence, discussion of time behind bars
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*
December 16, 2025
5 stars
Hold the Line is the second book in Julia Wolf’s ‘Kelly Ranch’ series, and oh my gosh… There wasn’t one thing I didn’t love about this book!
Phoebe is as sweet as sugar and the owner of Sugar Rush Bakery. And she has a new neighbor who just happens to be her high school crush, Deacon Slater. Deke was recently released from prison and is trying to keep his head down and move on with his life.
I love the dynamic between Phoebe and Deke. She is exactly what he needs in his life. Someone who cares, who shows love freely, and is herself with him. Deke is protective and sweet. I love how he cherishes Phoebe and cares for her in the same way she cares for him. They were the best couple.
Julia Wolf is one of those authors who writes consistently good books, but sometimes she really knocks it out of the park for me, and this was one of those times! I highly recommend this book; it was such a win for me!
Hold the Line is the second book in Julia Wolf’s ‘Kelly Ranch’ series, and oh my gosh… There wasn’t one thing I didn’t love about this book!
Phoebe is as sweet as sugar and the owner of Sugar Rush Bakery. And she has a new neighbor who just happens to be her high school crush, Deacon Slater. Deke was recently released from prison and is trying to keep his head down and move on with his life.
I love the dynamic between Phoebe and Deke. She is exactly what he needs in his life. Someone who cares, who shows love freely, and is herself with him. Deke is protective and sweet. I love how he cherishes Phoebe and cares for her in the same way she cares for him. They were the best couple.
Julia Wolf is one of those authors who writes consistently good books, but sometimes she really knocks it out of the park for me, and this was one of those times! I highly recommend this book; it was such a win for me!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 5 stars
Narrators: Emma Wilder & Sean Masters
Narration Rating: 5 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 9h 11m
May 17, 2025
3.5 ⭐
I'm not sure how to review this, so bear with my rambling. 😅
This actually starts really well, and I was invested. There was definitely some tension, and their interactions were interesting. But then they had their breakup almost at the halfway mark, and I think that's when my interest fizzled out.
I love Phoebe (27) and her down-to-earth, selfless, and sunny personality. I adore how much she's open, accepting, and never judgmental of his past or his name. She was such a good person down to her core, and that made me love her character even more. Her love for baking and everything pink were factors too. 🤭
But I think she's waaay too nice most of the time. Although I usually appreciate this trait, there were instances when I felt she forgave too easily and didn't stand her ground around Deke. Then again, her holding on to anger or annoyance would be a complete 180 of her character. Still, I would've preferred if she were less understanding (at times), as sometimes people need to learn how to take accountability for their actions and not be coddled right away after they apologize through words.
I'm not saying Deacon/Deke (28) was a bad guy; he was so far from that in all honesty. While I understood that he had hangups—a tough childhood and being a felon. It still didn't sit well with me when he intentionally hurt Phoebe because his self-doubts would get the best of him. Tbf, He never did this in a jerk or a-hole-ish way, but of course, it still does hurt.
I hoped for him to finally get his act together and not just at the last 20% mark, but alas, that didn't happen. He wasn't being mean or anything, but it just doesn't seem fair for him to hold back something from her when she's always made an effort to include him in everything she does. Phoebe and her family have pretty much welcomed him into their lives, and they've never treated him like anything less.
Idk, this is all my impression, but throughout the story, he really gives off the feeling of someone who's already halfway out the door. But he will never do the leaving and instead will wait for Phoebe to come to her senses and realize she deserves someone better. Then again, I know that it all boils down to his insecurities and that nagging feeling of never being good enough.
Overall, it was pretty enjoyable. Both MCs were really likable, and I just love how humble Phoebe's family is, even with their status. As for Deke, I really wish his insecurities and self-doubts didn't take up so much time in the story. It’s not fair that he feels weighed down by his family name and his brother's mistakes. He deserves goodness in his life. I only wish he had realized this sooner and recognized the good person that everyone else sees in him.
Book info:
- Small town
- Second chance-ish vibe
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Ex-convict (H)
- Found family
- Kidnapping
- Physical Assault
- No cheating, OM/OW
- With separation (1 or 2 week(s)??)
- Slowburn
- V MMC, No V FMC
- HEA (2 yrs later, married and trying for a baby)
Notes:
〰️ They were crushing on each other way back in high school. But he was from the wrong side of the tracks, and she was from a well-off family. And he thought nothing would come out of it. Also, he's a year older than her.
〰️ OM. There were two OM who asked for her number, but she was not interested in both of them. There was also another OM who asked her for a dance, but she turned him down as well.
〰️ OW. When his brother asked to meet with him, he didn't know he set it up to be a double date. Phoebe saw them, and Deke saw her too, but he shook his head when she tried to approach them. All this so that his brother wouldn't find out his connection to her. He didn't do anything with the OW and left right away.
I'm not sure how to review this, so bear with my rambling. 😅
This actually starts really well, and I was invested. There was definitely some tension, and their interactions were interesting. But then they had their breakup almost at the halfway mark, and I think that's when my interest fizzled out.
I love Phoebe (27) and her down-to-earth, selfless, and sunny personality. I adore how much she's open, accepting, and never judgmental of his past or his name. She was such a good person down to her core, and that made me love her character even more. Her love for baking and everything pink were factors too. 🤭
But I think she's waaay too nice most of the time. Although I usually appreciate this trait, there were instances when I felt she forgave too easily and didn't stand her ground around Deke. Then again, her holding on to anger or annoyance would be a complete 180 of her character. Still, I would've preferred if she were less understanding (at times), as sometimes people need to learn how to take accountability for their actions and not be coddled right away after they apologize through words.
I'm not saying Deacon/Deke (28) was a bad guy; he was so far from that in all honesty. While I understood that he had hangups—a tough childhood and being a felon. It still didn't sit well with me when he intentionally hurt Phoebe because his self-doubts would get the best of him. Tbf, He never did this in a jerk or a-hole-ish way, but of course, it still does hurt.
I hoped for him to finally get his act together and not just at the last 20% mark, but alas, that didn't happen. He wasn't being mean or anything, but it just doesn't seem fair for him to hold back something from her when she's always made an effort to include him in everything she does. Phoebe and her family have pretty much welcomed him into their lives, and they've never treated him like anything less.
Idk, this is all my impression, but throughout the story, he really gives off the feeling of someone who's already halfway out the door. But he will never do the leaving and instead will wait for Phoebe to come to her senses and realize she deserves someone better. Then again, I know that it all boils down to his insecurities and that nagging feeling of never being good enough.
Overall, it was pretty enjoyable. Both MCs were really likable, and I just love how humble Phoebe's family is, even with their status. As for Deke, I really wish his insecurities and self-doubts didn't take up so much time in the story. It’s not fair that he feels weighed down by his family name and his brother's mistakes. He deserves goodness in his life. I only wish he had realized this sooner and recognized the good person that everyone else sees in him.
Book info:
- Small town
- Second chance-ish vibe
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Ex-convict (H)
- Found family
- Kidnapping
- Physical Assault
- No cheating, OM/OW
- With separation (1 or 2 week(s)??)
- Slowburn
- V MMC, No V FMC
- HEA (2 yrs later, married and trying for a baby)
Notes:
〰️ They were crushing on each other way back in high school. But he was from the wrong side of the tracks, and she was from a well-off family. And he thought nothing would come out of it. Also, he's a year older than her.
〰️ OM. There were two OM who asked for her number, but she was not interested in both of them. There was also another OM who asked her for a dance, but she turned him down as well.
〰️ OW. When his brother asked to meet with him, he didn't know he set it up to be a double date. Phoebe saw them, and Deke saw her too, but he shook his head when she tried to approach them. All this so that his brother wouldn't find out his connection to her. He didn't do anything with the OW and left right away.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2025
Deacon and Phoebe were so sweet 🥹
I had a feeling about Deacon going in to this that I was so so soooo hoping was right, and it WAS 🤩😉
Deacon was def my kind of H. He was quiet and reserved, but when it came to the h, he (mostly) never let her wonder about his feelings for her. And Phoebe was a perfect h for me. She was kind and willing to accept and give love! I’ve grown really tired of h’s (&H’s) who push and push and push the other MC away, so having Phoebe be so open was perffff
And “Honey” is my favoriteeee nickname, and so I loved that Phoebe called Deacon that
“His wounds wouldn’t heal overnight, but I’d keep loving him until he saw himself the way I did—a beautiful man who had overcome circumstances that might’ve broken someone with less grit.”
Deacon was just such a lonely and sad guy before he got with Phoebe, it kinda broke my heart when he would be baffled by her loving and caring for him
“He cradled my face with both hands, his gaze locked on mine. After a moment, he released a long exhale. “You mean it, don’t you? You love me.”
One of the best things about this book was that these MCs had COMMON SENSE! I loved that about them because common sense isn’t very common it seems in books
I was sad to see the ending of this book because I loved their sweet love so much 🥹 but they got a sweet HEA so I’m happy
ARC provided 🫶
I had a feeling about Deacon going in to this that I was so so soooo hoping was right, and it WAS 🤩😉
Deacon was def my kind of H. He was quiet and reserved, but when it came to the h, he (mostly) never let her wonder about his feelings for her. And Phoebe was a perfect h for me. She was kind and willing to accept and give love! I’ve grown really tired of h’s (&H’s) who push and push and push the other MC away, so having Phoebe be so open was perffff
And “Honey” is my favoriteeee nickname, and so I loved that Phoebe called Deacon that
“His wounds wouldn’t heal overnight, but I’d keep loving him until he saw himself the way I did—a beautiful man who had overcome circumstances that might’ve broken someone with less grit.”
Deacon was just such a lonely and sad guy before he got with Phoebe, it kinda broke my heart when he would be baffled by her loving and caring for him
“He cradled my face with both hands, his gaze locked on mine. After a moment, he released a long exhale. “You mean it, don’t you? You love me.”
One of the best things about this book was that these MCs had COMMON SENSE! I loved that about them because common sense isn’t very common it seems in books
I was sad to see the ending of this book because I loved their sweet love so much 🥹 but they got a sweet HEA so I’m happy
ARC provided 🫶
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September 16, 2025Available now!
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Narrated by: Emma Wilder & Sean Masters
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Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon: https://bit.ly/42ifANK
Narrated by: Emma Wilder & Sean Masters
Listen today!
Audible: http://bit.ly/4prR5ar
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/43Y0Bd1
May 15, 2025
Fracking fabulous 😍
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: mutual pining
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥1\2
This is everything I love about Julia Wolf books! Well written with wonderful storytelling, It pulls on all your heartstrings without being overly angsty. The MMC was probably the sweetest hero I've seen in a long time. He completely deserved his happily ever after and so did she. I laughed, I cried, and I went away with a warm fuzzy heart ❤. This one is definitely going in my best of 2025 pile. Read it, you'll not be disappointed!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: mutual pining
Angst: 😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥1\2
This is everything I love about Julia Wolf books! Well written with wonderful storytelling, It pulls on all your heartstrings without being overly angsty. The MMC was probably the sweetest hero I've seen in a long time. He completely deserved his happily ever after and so did she. I laughed, I cried, and I went away with a warm fuzzy heart ❤. This one is definitely going in my best of 2025 pile. Read it, you'll not be disappointed!
June 18, 2025
I just finished reading "Hold the Line" and wow! This book made me feel so many emotions. I laughed, I cried, and I didn't want to put it down.
This book is about love, healing, and second chances. The main characters are Deacon and Phoebe. They knew each other in high school, but now they meet again as adults.
Deacon has many problems from his past. He thinks he's not good enough for anyone. He lives alone and doesn't talk to people much because he's afraid they will judge him.
Phoebe is completely different. She's happy, friendly, and owns a bakery. She makes delicious food and always tries to help others. When she sees Deacon again, she remembers him from school and wants to be his friend.
The romance develops slowly and feels natural. Deacon and Phoebe both have to learn to trust each other. Their relationship isn't perfect, which makes it more realistic.
The love story is sweet but not too simple 💗
If you like romance books, you will love this. It's perfect for people who want a story about finding love after difficult times. The book has some serious topics, but it ends happily.
Thank you Julia Wolf for the ARC 🥹💗
This book is about love, healing, and second chances. The main characters are Deacon and Phoebe. They knew each other in high school, but now they meet again as adults.
Deacon has many problems from his past. He thinks he's not good enough for anyone. He lives alone and doesn't talk to people much because he's afraid they will judge him.
Phoebe is completely different. She's happy, friendly, and owns a bakery. She makes delicious food and always tries to help others. When she sees Deacon again, she remembers him from school and wants to be his friend.
The romance develops slowly and feels natural. Deacon and Phoebe both have to learn to trust each other. Their relationship isn't perfect, which makes it more realistic.
The love story is sweet but not too simple 💗
If you like romance books, you will love this. It's perfect for people who want a story about finding love after difficult times. The book has some serious topics, but it ends happily.
Thank you Julia Wolf for the ARC 🥹💗
May 15, 2025
This book 😍😍😍 if you want the kind of feelings you get with that giggly-in-your-heart, kinda shy and sweet, first-love, crush type of vibe - read this!!! And while it is sweet, the real intimacy of their connection makes the hot stuff even hotter for me - I was fanning my face from the heat while simultaneously absolutely giddy inside during some of their open-door scenes.
My goodness, Deacon got me right from the start when he thought a woman like Phoebe wouldn’t remember a guy like him. They both noticed each other in high school but never said anything.
Oh Deacon 😍🫠 He’s sooo cute and shy and sweet and quiet and steady. He’s inexperienced in love and has had a very rough life but is golden inside and doesn’t know it. Phoebe is full of life and so up front and real and sees the world in a lovely way. I also want to give a shout out to this great plus-size rep. It’s not in your face and the way Deacon thinks about and loves on her body is so *normal* in the loveliest way. He loves that softness!
The first time he asks her to go somewhere with him I so internally screamed and kicked my feet and giggled. I love love love how cute they are together!!
Oh and never has a couch make-out session literally got my face all hot lol whew!! and then grinning like a fool by the end.
I can’t describe how much I loved this. Julia just writes romance like no other. I don’t know what it is exactly but the characters are always just so genuine and I think in this book even moreso than any others I’ve read. There’s nothing crazy far fetched or hard to believe, it just..is. Their love grows so naturally. And I love it.
The family ties - the mom. My heart! And then more family stuff later just had me bawling. No surprises there, family stuff always gets me. There’s some drama but it just fits into the small town vibe so well.
Ok, I’ll stop here because I could go on and on but this one is definitely up with my top faves from Julia. Definitely check it out!
5/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
My goodness, Deacon got me right from the start when he thought a woman like Phoebe wouldn’t remember a guy like him. They both noticed each other in high school but never said anything.
Oh Deacon 😍🫠 He’s sooo cute and shy and sweet and quiet and steady. He’s inexperienced in love and has had a very rough life but is golden inside and doesn’t know it. Phoebe is full of life and so up front and real and sees the world in a lovely way. I also want to give a shout out to this great plus-size rep. It’s not in your face and the way Deacon thinks about and loves on her body is so *normal* in the loveliest way. He loves that softness!
The first time he asks her to go somewhere with him I so internally screamed and kicked my feet and giggled. I love love love how cute they are together!!
Oh and never has a couch make-out session literally got my face all hot lol whew!! and then grinning like a fool by the end.
I can’t describe how much I loved this. Julia just writes romance like no other. I don’t know what it is exactly but the characters are always just so genuine and I think in this book even moreso than any others I’ve read. There’s nothing crazy far fetched or hard to believe, it just..is. Their love grows so naturally. And I love it.
The family ties - the mom. My heart! And then more family stuff later just had me bawling. No surprises there, family stuff always gets me. There’s some drama but it just fits into the small town vibe so well.
Ok, I’ll stop here because I could go on and on but this one is definitely up with my top faves from Julia. Definitely check it out!
5/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
September 5, 2025
ugh this was PERFECT !! new comfort read
April 26, 2025
The moment this landed in my library & I saw the beautiful cover I knew I was going to fall in love w/it! I honestly can’t say one bad thing about Deacon & Phoebe’s story. It was beautiful, sweet, & had just the perfect amount of spice. One of the things I loved most about this book was that Phoebe got all of Deacon’s firsts! That surprised me, but in such a good way.
I so enjoyed watching the relationship between these two go f/Deacon trying to keep her at arms length & just be neighbors to slowly building trust & friendship that quickly led to love. And I even liked the little bit angst thrown in w/Phoebe letting her own walls down & being able to trust Deacon again after she caught him in a lie.
I’m never surprised by how much I love Julia’s books, but I’m always surprised that when I swear I couldn’t love another couple more, Julia introduces yet another couple that I absolutely adore! And I love seeing past couples. I loved & adored Elena & Lacklan in their story, so I really enjoy seeing them older & as parents. And I swore then that they were my favorite & I couldn’t love another couple as much as them, but Deacon & Phoebe are pretty darn close!
I so enjoyed watching the relationship between these two go f/Deacon trying to keep her at arms length & just be neighbors to slowly building trust & friendship that quickly led to love. And I even liked the little bit angst thrown in w/Phoebe letting her own walls down & being able to trust Deacon again after she caught him in a lie.
I’m never surprised by how much I love Julia’s books, but I’m always surprised that when I swear I couldn’t love another couple more, Julia introduces yet another couple that I absolutely adore! And I love seeing past couples. I loved & adored Elena & Lacklan in their story, so I really enjoy seeing them older & as parents. And I swore then that they were my favorite & I couldn’t love another couple as much as them, but Deacon & Phoebe are pretty darn close!
May 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. Phoebe and Deacon were so sweet together, I loved their story. This small town book had grumpy/sunshine, hurt/comfort, found family, and neighbors to lovers. I loved this whole family and I can’t wait for more!
July 17, 2025
4 🌟
This was an overall really enjoyable read for me. This book features a sort of second chance between two people who had massive crushes on each other in high school, one who is now an ex-convict and the stereotypical rich good girl and poor bad boy pairing.
When bakery owner Phoebe (h) knocks on the door of her new upstairs neighbour, she doesn’t expect Deacon (H), the boy she had a major crush on in HS, to open the door. She knows Deacon must have just gotten out of jail, but she can’t help the pull she still has towards him. Plus, she’s like the kindest and most non-judgmental person ever, so that helps. Phoebe’s commitment to being a good neighbour and befriending Deacon, despite his surliness and resistance, eventually breaks down his intention to stay away from the girl he’s been kind of obsessed with since HS. Unfortunately, not only are there emotional walls still between them, there are also forces outside of their relationship threatening their happiness.
I loved Phoebe and Deke together. They had such a sweet, supportive and sensual dynamic that just lit up the page. Deke has a lot of emotional baggage and trauma he has to work through in order to embrace the happiness he’s found with Phoebe, and he stuffs up a few times along the way. As such, there is a separation fairly early into their relationship/the book. Deke monumentally stuffs up in his attempt to keep his criminal brother away from his girl, and he loses her for a while as a result. I will note what happens in this scenario down in the ‘safety’ section below.
I did feel like Deke had one foot out the door for a lot of their relationship, but I also felt like he really loved Phoebe and he just needed to find some inner strength in order to stay, which he does. Phoebe was such a sweet person, but she still stood firm where she really needed to. Some might think she let Deacon get away with too much, but her forgiveness of his trauma never bothered me because it came from a place of understanding and love, not desperation to be with him.
Other standouts were the side characters, including Phoebe’s family, who embraced Deacon despite his past, as well as Hailey and Deke’s friends. The amount of loving relationships in this couples inner circle was amazing to see.
A small issue I had with this was how melodramatic some of scenes could be. Particularly in the third act, which I saw coming from a mile away, I felt like the angst was maybe a bit too much for what was otherwise just a contemporary romance. I understood how it fit in with the storyline but I wanted things to be resolved in a different, perhaps less dramatic, way.
Otherwise I don’t really have many complaints about this. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would love it if the next book is safe so I can read it. This author can be hit or miss on the safety for me, but when they get it right, it’s always amazing.
Safety:
- h not a virgin. H is a virgin and has all his firsts with the h (YAY!!)
- No om drama.
- Ow drama 1: h is out with friends and catches H in a lie when she sees him on a double date with his brother and two women. This is after they have been seeing each other for a few weeks. When the h approaches the table the H shakes his head, telling her not to come closer. She leaves and when he eventually gets home, he doesn’t offer an explanation. In reality, the H didn’t know ow were going to be there and had no interest in the date. He just wanted to make sure his brother didn’t know about the h in order to protect her. Instead of explaining this to her, he lets her think he’s an awful person in order to push her away for her own safety. Eventually he pulls his head out and asks for another chance, explaining the truth about the situation. Their separation lasts a few weeks.
- Ow drama 2: I wouldn’t really call this ow drama but the H gets up in the middle of the night and leaves without telling the h, she checks the doorbell camera and sees him taking an ow upstairs into his apartment. When he returns an hour later, he doesn’t wake her up to tell her anything so she assumes the worst. In the morning he tells her that his brother’s girlfriend is worried about him and the people he’s gotten involved with. The h is relieved that the H offered the truth without her asking him anything about it. She has baggage around cheating as she was unknowingly the other woman in a past relationship. The H is devoted to her though and would never cheat.
- Other tw/cw include (but are not limited to); violence, attempted assault and intimidation, mentions of past child abuse and neglect, kidnapping, murder and attempted murder.
This was an overall really enjoyable read for me. This book features a sort of second chance between two people who had massive crushes on each other in high school, one who is now an ex-convict and the stereotypical rich good girl and poor bad boy pairing.
When bakery owner Phoebe (h) knocks on the door of her new upstairs neighbour, she doesn’t expect Deacon (H), the boy she had a major crush on in HS, to open the door. She knows Deacon must have just gotten out of jail, but she can’t help the pull she still has towards him. Plus, she’s like the kindest and most non-judgmental person ever, so that helps. Phoebe’s commitment to being a good neighbour and befriending Deacon, despite his surliness and resistance, eventually breaks down his intention to stay away from the girl he’s been kind of obsessed with since HS. Unfortunately, not only are there emotional walls still between them, there are also forces outside of their relationship threatening their happiness.
I loved Phoebe and Deke together. They had such a sweet, supportive and sensual dynamic that just lit up the page. Deke has a lot of emotional baggage and trauma he has to work through in order to embrace the happiness he’s found with Phoebe, and he stuffs up a few times along the way. As such, there is a separation fairly early into their relationship/the book. Deke monumentally stuffs up in his attempt to keep his criminal brother away from his girl, and he loses her for a while as a result. I will note what happens in this scenario down in the ‘safety’ section below.
I did feel like Deke had one foot out the door for a lot of their relationship, but I also felt like he really loved Phoebe and he just needed to find some inner strength in order to stay, which he does. Phoebe was such a sweet person, but she still stood firm where she really needed to. Some might think she let Deacon get away with too much, but her forgiveness of his trauma never bothered me because it came from a place of understanding and love, not desperation to be with him.
Other standouts were the side characters, including Phoebe’s family, who embraced Deacon despite his past, as well as Hailey and Deke’s friends. The amount of loving relationships in this couples inner circle was amazing to see.
A small issue I had with this was how melodramatic some of scenes could be. Particularly in the third act, which I saw coming from a mile away, I felt like the angst was maybe a bit too much for what was otherwise just a contemporary romance. I understood how it fit in with the storyline but I wanted things to be resolved in a different, perhaps less dramatic, way.
Otherwise I don’t really have many complaints about this. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would love it if the next book is safe so I can read it. This author can be hit or miss on the safety for me, but when they get it right, it’s always amazing.
Safety:
- h not a virgin. H is a virgin and has all his firsts with the h (YAY!!)
- No om drama.
- Ow drama 1: h is out with friends and catches H in a lie when she sees him on a double date with his brother and two women. This is after they have been seeing each other for a few weeks. When the h approaches the table the H shakes his head, telling her not to come closer. She leaves and when he eventually gets home, he doesn’t offer an explanation. In reality, the H didn’t know ow were going to be there and had no interest in the date. He just wanted to make sure his brother didn’t know about the h in order to protect her. Instead of explaining this to her, he lets her think he’s an awful person in order to push her away for her own safety. Eventually he pulls his head out and asks for another chance, explaining the truth about the situation. Their separation lasts a few weeks.
- Ow drama 2: I wouldn’t really call this ow drama but the H gets up in the middle of the night and leaves without telling the h, she checks the doorbell camera and sees him taking an ow upstairs into his apartment. When he returns an hour later, he doesn’t wake her up to tell her anything so she assumes the worst. In the morning he tells her that his brother’s girlfriend is worried about him and the people he’s gotten involved with. The h is relieved that the H offered the truth without her asking him anything about it. She has baggage around cheating as she was unknowingly the other woman in a past relationship. The H is devoted to her though and would never cheat.
- Other tw/cw include (but are not limited to); violence, attempted assault and intimidation, mentions of past child abuse and neglect, kidnapping, murder and attempted murder.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2025
My oh my…Deacon Slater. He’s officially made it to the top of my favorite tortured MMC list, I mean I’ve always been a sucker for the troubled guys and this book proves that to be true again. Deacon believes he’s not good enough for anyone and Phoebe makes it her mission to prove him wrong. Phoebe is sweet as pie and is the kind of adult I aspire to be, she knows what she wants and she’s gonna get it. I loved the mutual pining in their backstory and the hardships that Deacon goes through make his character that much more lovable. Julia has always had a knack for pulling her readers into a new world and I am so glad I got to come back to Sugar Brush in this book. I cannot thank Julia and the Valentine PR team enough for allowing me to be a part of this ARC team! Make sure you get your copy of Hold the Line when it releases, on May 15th!
June 24, 2025
This was my first book by this author and it definitely won't be my last! Deke and Phoebe had me hooked from page one but when we got to about halfway, I was truly obsessed! There's a beautiful storyline with his family and that was so precious 🥹 This is such a good found family story and I'm excited to go back and read about Phoebe's sister!
I received a free, early copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free, early copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2025
this was so damn sweet 😭 phoebe and deacon are my angels
April 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book you guys! This book! It pulled me in right away, so much that I said no to sleep because I had to finish the book! The romance is swoony, and the characters feel so real. A grumpy hero with an oooey-gooey center? A strong and soft, plus-sized heroine??? Yes, please. Julia Wolf delivered a heartfelt, steamy read that had me tearing up at times. Gah, I loved it!
This book you guys! This book! It pulled me in right away, so much that I said no to sleep because I had to finish the book! The romance is swoony, and the characters feel so real. A grumpy hero with an oooey-gooey center? A strong and soft, plus-sized heroine??? Yes, please. Julia Wolf delivered a heartfelt, steamy read that had me tearing up at times. Gah, I loved it!
May 14, 2025
📚𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪 - 𝗛𝗢𝗟𝗗 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗘
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝟱🌟 | 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: 𝟯🌶️
💜ɴᴇɪɢʜʙᴏʀꜱ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀꜱ
🧁ɢʀᴜᴍᴘʏ/ꜱᴜꜱɴʜɪɴᴇ
💜ꜱᴡᴇᴇᴛ ᴄᴜʀᴠʏ ʙᴀᴋᴇʀ ꜰᴍᴄ
🧁ᴛᴀᴛᴛᴏᴏᴇᴅ ᴇx-ꜰᴇʟᴏɴ ᴍᴍᴄ
💜ᴠɪʀɢɪɴ ʜᴇʀᴏ
💓𝗣𝗲𝘁𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲: 𝗦𝘂𝗴𝗮𝗿
Phoebe Kelly, the town's sweetheart, gorgeous, kind and practically sunshine in human form. Then in walks Deacon Slater, the tattooed ex-convict, with a bad reputation in town. They start off as neighbors... but you know that kind of tension doesn’t just stay neighborly for long 👀
𝐌𝐲 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤—𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬, 𝐛𝐫𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐧 🥹💔
Deacon completely stole my heart. The pain and injustice he's endured throughout his life had me sobbing so hard. How could you not fall for him? And the way he loves Phoebe—with so much tenderness, protectiveness, and vulnerability?? I can’t. I just can’t. He doesn’t think he’s good enough for her, and that insecurity made him even more lovable. He’s such a gentle soul beneath all that gruffness. Life hasn’t been fair to him at all, and Phoebe is his salvation.
𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐞𝐛𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐢𝐦💓
Phoebe, a lucky girl who grew up in a loving, wealthy family but never let that make her judge others. She’s got this sweet, feisty vibe that I loved. I loved how she was written as a plus-size girl in such a natural, empowering way without making it the focus. And let me tell you, their first crush on each other? Adorable. But when it was revealed that Deke was a virgin? Oh. My. Gosh. That was so unexpectedly hot. I didn't think that would get me, but it totally did.
💭And can we talk about Julia Wolf’s writing? Like, how does she do it? This is the 11th book of hers that I’ve read, and every single one has been a solid 5 stars (or more). I don’t think I could ever come across a book by her that I wouldn’t love. Her writing style is literally my literary soulmate. She nails the perfect balance between sweet, emotional, and sexy—this book was all of that and more. It’s tooth-achingly sweet, emotionally intense, and still incredibly hot. I adored every second of it, and I know I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.
Highly recommend this one!
✨ 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚘 JULIA WOLF 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚐𝚒𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚍 e-ARC, 𝙸'𝚖 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚟𝚘𝚕𝚞𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚕𝚢 ✨
May 19, 2025
Thank you so much to Valentine PR and Julia Wolf for this advanced copy. Believe it or not I do occasionally have some low ratings and Unfortunately this one was just not for me. I usually love a small town romance with a bit of suspense but I found myself not really looking forward to picking this one up and wasn’t even sure what the plot really was until the last 10%. The main characters I found both really annoying and Deacon constantly begging for pity make him very unlikeable in my opinion. He kept just saying I’m no good for you and peacing out but not really caring how it would affect Phoebe which just rubbed me the wrong way. This is just a me thing but everytime she called him honey I cringed so bad that I had to just skip the word. I’ve read so many small town romances lately that I can’t help but compare and I unfortunately just don’t think this one lived up to my expectations. It felt very stagnant until the end I was just ready for it to be over. There were things I did like, I love when there is a curvier female main character and the portrayal that having curves and not being stick thin is beautiful! Overall, I just didn’t connect with the characters and felt bored while reading.
May 15, 2025
I can always count on Julia Wolf to take me on a beautiful journey with her characters and Phoebe & Deacon in Hold The Line are no exception. Their love story is one of my favorites. They're one of those couples that on paper just shouldn't work, but deep down you realize how perfect they are for each other.
Deacon hasn't had it easy, cursed with the wrong last name, while Phoebe was born into a well-known well-respected family. He doesn't believe that he's worthy of a girl like Phoebe, but she's not going to let him push her away. She loves big and she's exactly what Deacon needs in his life.
I am really loving this series so far & I can not wait for what's next! :)
Thank you to Julia for the early copy.
Deacon hasn't had it easy, cursed with the wrong last name, while Phoebe was born into a well-known well-respected family. He doesn't believe that he's worthy of a girl like Phoebe, but she's not going to let him push her away. She loves big and she's exactly what Deacon needs in his life.
I am really loving this series so far & I can not wait for what's next! :)
Thank you to Julia for the early copy.
May 31, 2025
Sweet, but bland. Characters were one-dimensional. There were a few really sweet moments where I'd get heart eyes from something Deke said to Phoebe. But then it seemed like that's all Deke did--talk sweet. Sugar, baby, honey---from the both of them. Got monotonous. There also seemed to be a little history between the two from high school, yet it was barely touched on. And not much given on history of either character. I finished feeling like Deke was practically a stranger.
May 24, 2025
📌 I received an e-arc, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.
Este libro sin duda me dejo sin suspiros, fue lindo, con su toque de suspenso tal cual el libro anterior y dos personajes principales que me robaron el corazón.
Deacon y Phoebe fueron hermosos, su historia me encantó de principio a fin. Deacon llega al pueblo luego de pasar un tiempo en prisión y por cosas de la vida se hace vecino de Phoebe, los dos empiezan a tratarse más, ha entenderse un poco más, aunque Deacon no quiere hacer nada porque siente que no es suficiente para ella (y déjenme decirles que ya aquí estaba llorando por él), la relación crece linda, crece cuando ya ven que no pueden estar el uno sin el otro, primero se hacen amigos, se abren entre ellos y allí es donde la magia funciona.
Como el libro anterior, este me dio un pequeño misterio ligado al suspenso, y aquí, aquí si se me salió el corazón del susto grande que me lleve y hasta aquí lo voy a dejar porque no voy a decir spoiler (leanlo, no se arrepentiran). La historia es buena, te atrapa, y como los demás libros de esta autora, te dejan con muy buen sabor de boca y con una sonrisa en la cara.
---
This book definitely left me with no sighs, it was cute, with its touch of suspense just like the previous book and two main characters that stole my heart.
Deacon and Phoebe were beautiful, I loved their story from beginning to end. Deacon arrives in town after spending some time in prison and by things of life he becomes Phoebe's neighbor, the two start to treat each other more, understand each other a little more, although Deacon doesn't want to do anything because he feels he is not enough for her (and let me tell you that already here I was crying for him), the relationship grows cute, it grows when they see that they can't be without each other, first they become friends, they open up to each other and that's where the magic works.
Like the previous book, this one gave me a little mystery linked to suspense, and here, here my heart went out because of the big scare I got and I'm going to leave it here because I'm not going to say spoiler (read it, you won't regret it). The story is good, it grabs you, and like the other books by this author, it leaves you with a good taste in your mouth and a smile on your face.
Este libro sin duda me dejo sin suspiros, fue lindo, con su toque de suspenso tal cual el libro anterior y dos personajes principales que me robaron el corazón.
Deacon y Phoebe fueron hermosos, su historia me encantó de principio a fin. Deacon llega al pueblo luego de pasar un tiempo en prisión y por cosas de la vida se hace vecino de Phoebe, los dos empiezan a tratarse más, ha entenderse un poco más, aunque Deacon no quiere hacer nada porque siente que no es suficiente para ella (y déjenme decirles que ya aquí estaba llorando por él), la relación crece linda, crece cuando ya ven que no pueden estar el uno sin el otro, primero se hacen amigos, se abren entre ellos y allí es donde la magia funciona.
Como el libro anterior, este me dio un pequeño misterio ligado al suspenso, y aquí, aquí si se me salió el corazón del susto grande que me lleve y hasta aquí lo voy a dejar porque no voy a decir spoiler (leanlo, no se arrepentiran). La historia es buena, te atrapa, y como los demás libros de esta autora, te dejan con muy buen sabor de boca y con una sonrisa en la cara.
---
This book definitely left me with no sighs, it was cute, with its touch of suspense just like the previous book and two main characters that stole my heart.
Deacon and Phoebe were beautiful, I loved their story from beginning to end. Deacon arrives in town after spending some time in prison and by things of life he becomes Phoebe's neighbor, the two start to treat each other more, understand each other a little more, although Deacon doesn't want to do anything because he feels he is not enough for her (and let me tell you that already here I was crying for him), the relationship grows cute, it grows when they see that they can't be without each other, first they become friends, they open up to each other and that's where the magic works.
Like the previous book, this one gave me a little mystery linked to suspense, and here, here my heart went out because of the big scare I got and I'm going to leave it here because I'm not going to say spoiler (read it, you won't regret it). The story is good, it grabs you, and like the other books by this author, it leaves you with a good taste in your mouth and a smile on your face.
May 15, 2025
ARC Review of Hold The Line the 2nd book in The Kelly Ranch Series by Julia Wolf This series is about Lachlan and Elena's children. I loved Lachlan and Elena's story (Sweet Like Poison) and am happy the stories continue with their kids. This is Deacon and Phoebe's story. This is a small town, grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract romance with a curvy FMC. Phoebe had a crush on Deacon in high-school now she owns Sugar Rush Bakery. Deacon went to Prison a few years after high-school but is out and back in town and shares a duplex with phoebe. Deacon thinks he’s not good enough to be friends with Phoebe even though she tries since they are neighbors but then he sees an incident with a customer at her shop and steps in to protect her and a friendship slowly forms. I love phoebe so much she is one of my new favorite FMCs she is so sweet, kind, and selfless shes girly and quiet and people think that means she’s shy or can’t handle herself but she can and shes definitely not shy she tells it like it is. I love her relationship with her family and reading her interactions with her siblings, nephew, parents and grandparents. Deacon has been through a lot and doesn’t have many people on his side he has his Aunt Joy who he came back to town for and he has his best friend Chris. I love how Phoebe doesn’t judge Deacon for his past she wants to get to know him. Deacon is a good guy who got the short end of the stick family wise. There is some suspense and angst in this book like there always is in Julia’s books and I love it it keeps you hooked and waiting to see what happens. This book has a guaranteed HEA I definitely recommend this book.
May 21, 2025
As I expected, this was another good small-town love story by the wonderful Julia Wolf.
Deacon was in jail, but when he got out he wanted to put his life on the right path. He moved to the small town he grew up in. What was his surprise when his neighbor was no other than his high school crush - Phoebe Kelly.
He was a good, quiet man and at first he did his best to avoid her, because he thought he was not good enough for her. Phoebe was a literal sunshine character. She was attracted to Deke for a long time and seeing him again only made her feelings grow more. She knew that he would not take the first step, but she wasn't taking no for an answer. In the end, he couldn't resist her. Their relationship was so beautiful. It was built on trust, happiness and great love. Everything between them was really emotional, and I was so happy to see their love grow. The mutual support was everything. She knew that he was the man for her and never gave up. But don't think that she was the only one in this relationship. He was cautious around her at first, but as soon as they got together, he saw that he deserved happiness. She was just impossible for him to resist.
Their love scenes were beautiful. Yes, they did have lots of passion and steam, but I also saw tender love. The spice was at the perfect level and the fire was sizzling 🌶️.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Phoebe and Deacon's story.
***I received an ARC from Valentine PR and my review is voluntary.***
Deacon was in jail, but when he got out he wanted to put his life on the right path. He moved to the small town he grew up in. What was his surprise when his neighbor was no other than his high school crush - Phoebe Kelly.
He was a good, quiet man and at first he did his best to avoid her, because he thought he was not good enough for her. Phoebe was a literal sunshine character. She was attracted to Deke for a long time and seeing him again only made her feelings grow more. She knew that he would not take the first step, but she wasn't taking no for an answer. In the end, he couldn't resist her. Their relationship was so beautiful. It was built on trust, happiness and great love. Everything between them was really emotional, and I was so happy to see their love grow. The mutual support was everything. She knew that he was the man for her and never gave up. But don't think that she was the only one in this relationship. He was cautious around her at first, but as soon as they got together, he saw that he deserved happiness. She was just impossible for him to resist.
Their love scenes were beautiful. Yes, they did have lots of passion and steam, but I also saw tender love. The spice was at the perfect level and the fire was sizzling 🌶️.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Phoebe and Deacon's story.
***I received an ARC from Valentine PR and my review is voluntary.***
July 24, 2025
This was so damn cute and exactly what I needed! Not only is that cover so beautiful, but to know they are a real-life couple got me all in my feels!
I was expecting this to be super angsty, but instead this was just such a sweet and heartfelt romance, which I absolutely adored! Phoebe is a confident, plus sized woman who runs her own bakery. She's sweet, loves pink, loves her life, and is just truly happy. When she sees Deacon again for the first time in years, she realizes all this feelings she once had for him never went away, and although he's hardened by life and the complete opposite of her in every way.. they just fit so beautifully. But when Deacon's past rears its ugly head, can they keep this newfound love safe?
Man, I just gobbled this book UP! I mean the pining, the always been you, the looks like a bad boy but is really this sweet marshmallow who LOVES his girl will just get me every single time. Plus I ADORED that he was the inexperienced one, and that Phoebe "taught" him what she liked. *winks.*
This is definitely light on the angst compared to the first book in the series, but there's still some suspense, and an ending that caught me by surprise with how sad it was. Julia definitely knocked it out of the park again!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
I was expecting this to be super angsty, but instead this was just such a sweet and heartfelt romance, which I absolutely adored! Phoebe is a confident, plus sized woman who runs her own bakery. She's sweet, loves pink, loves her life, and is just truly happy. When she sees Deacon again for the first time in years, she realizes all this feelings she once had for him never went away, and although he's hardened by life and the complete opposite of her in every way.. they just fit so beautifully. But when Deacon's past rears its ugly head, can they keep this newfound love safe?
Man, I just gobbled this book UP! I mean the pining, the always been you, the looks like a bad boy but is really this sweet marshmallow who LOVES his girl will just get me every single time. Plus I ADORED that he was the inexperienced one, and that Phoebe "taught" him what she liked. *winks.*
This is definitely light on the angst compared to the first book in the series, but there's still some suspense, and an ending that caught me by surprise with how sad it was. Julia definitely knocked it out of the park again!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
April 27, 2025
Omg Deacon and Phoebe - what a love story - I loved both the characters so much but I do definitely have a soft spot for Deacon. I felt for him. After only being out of prison for a year (after 4 years inside) he is trying to get his life in line and moves back to Sugar Rush (his home town) and moves in above Phoebe.
Phoebe being Phoebe goes to welcome her new neighbour and realises it’s someone she knows, someone she went to school with, someone she crushed on. What she didn’t realise is he crushed on her too but didn’t do anything about it because of his surname and hers. He felt unworthy of her and it was heartbreaking to read. He had already lost so much in his life
Phoebe was just how I remember her in See It Through, sweet, friendly, kind and strong.
Beautiful heartwarming story and I was completely sucked into their story.
Richie (Deacon’s brother) was a piece of work, letting his brother do time but he may have redeemed himself (no spoiler)
I was worried Deke was going to sabotage him and Phoebe (he honestly felt so unworthy and you felt it coming through with the writing - Julia did an amazing job) thank god for his little sister who pulled him out of it because the Kelly family did not see him for his surname or his family but saw him for the man he was for Phoebe and how happy she was with him.
Loved reading all about the Kelly family once again and cannot wait for who is next
Thank you to Julia and her team for this eARC in exchange for my honest review
Phoebe being Phoebe goes to welcome her new neighbour and realises it’s someone she knows, someone she went to school with, someone she crushed on. What she didn’t realise is he crushed on her too but didn’t do anything about it because of his surname and hers. He felt unworthy of her and it was heartbreaking to read. He had already lost so much in his life
Phoebe was just how I remember her in See It Through, sweet, friendly, kind and strong.
Beautiful heartwarming story and I was completely sucked into their story.
Richie (Deacon’s brother) was a piece of work, letting his brother do time but he may have redeemed himself (no spoiler)
I was worried Deke was going to sabotage him and Phoebe (he honestly felt so unworthy and you felt it coming through with the writing - Julia did an amazing job) thank god for his little sister who pulled him out of it because the Kelly family did not see him for his surname or his family but saw him for the man he was for Phoebe and how happy she was with him.
Loved reading all about the Kelly family once again and cannot wait for who is next
Thank you to Julia and her team for this eARC in exchange for my honest review
June 18, 2025
I actually read this book back in April, wrote the review shortly after… and here I am in June finally posting it. Classic me.
Huge thanks to Julia’s entire team for the ARC. I’ll keep it short and sweet: I adore Julia’s books. I’ve read almost all of them, and almost every single one has been beautiful, powerful, and just… right. This one? No exception.
One thing I truly connect with is how her heroines always reflect women like me—curvy, real, and worthy of love just as we are. And then she gives us men like Deacon—sigh—who make me believe someone like that is out there, waiting for me too.
This story was soft and sweet, but also full of weight. Deacon had his own demons, Phoebe had her own pain, and together… they found healing, they held each other through the storms, and now? They’re where they’re meant to be: happy. Together.
Thank you again for the chance to read this beautiful story.
Huge thanks to Julia’s entire team for the ARC. I’ll keep it short and sweet: I adore Julia’s books. I’ve read almost all of them, and almost every single one has been beautiful, powerful, and just… right. This one? No exception.
One thing I truly connect with is how her heroines always reflect women like me—curvy, real, and worthy of love just as we are. And then she gives us men like Deacon—sigh—who make me believe someone like that is out there, waiting for me too.
This story was soft and sweet, but also full of weight. Deacon had his own demons, Phoebe had her own pain, and together… they found healing, they held each other through the storms, and now? They’re where they’re meant to be: happy. Together.
Thank you again for the chance to read this beautiful story.
April 26, 2025
I already knew I’d adore Phoebe. She’s smart, independent, strong, loves her work, and lives her life by being kind. And…she always had a crush on the one boy who didn’t want her. But then that one boy becomes her neighbor, and the truth comes out. Sure, there are bumps. There is miscommunication. But there’s also the grovel and the honesty and the truth of hearts and their longing. And trust me, Deacon is going to stun you. I had a suspicious feeling he might be what I was thinking, but oh how wonderful it felt when he shares his whole heart and trust with Phoebe.
This is more than a small town love. This is family and hope and learning as you go. This is finally realizing you DO deserve the good things in life and grabbing them. This is reuniting with the kid you did your best for, then realizing that they’re thankful for you. This is emotional, steamy hot hot heat, a bit dangerous, and everything I’ve come to expect from this author.
Well done, Julia. So very well done that I can’t wait for more! Deacon is right there with Phoebe’s dad for “he’s one of my favorite guys” feelings.
This is more than a small town love. This is family and hope and learning as you go. This is finally realizing you DO deserve the good things in life and grabbing them. This is reuniting with the kid you did your best for, then realizing that they’re thankful for you. This is emotional, steamy hot hot heat, a bit dangerous, and everything I’ve come to expect from this author.
Well done, Julia. So very well done that I can’t wait for more! Deacon is right there with Phoebe’s dad for “he’s one of my favorite guys” feelings.
April 29, 2025
wow is all i gotta say @Julia Wolf Romance Author you have out there yourself again Phoebe and Deacon is up there with my favorite couple. he is respectful towards her takes her needs before his. down family how they bring him into the Kelly he doubts itself but she was there to remember it doesn't care about it what people thinks of you and I love how they work for each other this book was 10/10 recommended
May 16, 2025
4.75⭐️ | 3.5🌶
This was Julia's redemption book in my eyes. After By The Letter and how disappointed I was, I was hoping her future books would be a whole 360 in a good way... and they are. I'm obsessed with this series and Phoebe and Deke were everything I wanted them to be and more! The love she showered Deke with was exactly what he deserved and vise versa. The sugary sweetness that was this book was exactly what I needed! I never wanted it to end. Hailey... I loved her. I hated how she felt safe and secure. I'm glad she ended up where she did. The Kellys and their acceptance of everyone, I live for found family. Can't wait for book 3. Thank you to valentine pr for the arc.
This was Julia's redemption book in my eyes. After By The Letter and how disappointed I was, I was hoping her future books would be a whole 360 in a good way... and they are. I'm obsessed with this series and Phoebe and Deke were everything I wanted them to be and more! The love she showered Deke with was exactly what he deserved and vise versa. The sugary sweetness that was this book was exactly what I needed! I never wanted it to end. Hailey... I loved her. I hated how she felt safe and secure. I'm glad she ended up where she did. The Kellys and their acceptance of everyone, I live for found family. Can't wait for book 3. Thank you to valentine pr for the arc.
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