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Love in Wildes #6
Almost Always
It was always meant to be them. Even if they didn’t know it.
Daisy Heroux and Rafferty Ames met as kids, at a time when they needed each other the most. They became friends who secretly loved each other, until hundreds of miles pulled them apart.
It’s been twenty years since she’s seen him, but Daisy’s life has moved forward. She got married and divorced, started a business and built a small, but good life. Struggles with her body and harsh memories of her childhood haven’t faded, but she’s happier now.
Meanwhile, Rafferty has been quietly struggling. Since his own divorce, he's been working two jobs as he raised his nine-year-old son alone. While he’s not looking for someone, he’s also not had the time to really consider what a relationship would be like for him now.
When he moves his son to a small town that doesn’t even appear on a map, the last thing he expects is to run into his first love. She’s not expecting him either. But this reunion encourages them to see their lives differently. The more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the growing feelings. Now, there’s so much more to consider before they take the leap.
They have to decide if love is worth the risk or if they’re forever better off as friends.
This book contains mature themes and explicit content, and is intended for readers 18+
Daisy Heroux and Rafferty Ames met as kids, at a time when they needed each other the most. They became friends who secretly loved each other, until hundreds of miles pulled them apart.
It’s been twenty years since she’s seen him, but Daisy’s life has moved forward. She got married and divorced, started a business and built a small, but good life. Struggles with her body and harsh memories of her childhood haven’t faded, but she’s happier now.
Meanwhile, Rafferty has been quietly struggling. Since his own divorce, he's been working two jobs as he raised his nine-year-old son alone. While he’s not looking for someone, he’s also not had the time to really consider what a relationship would be like for him now.
When he moves his son to a small town that doesn’t even appear on a map, the last thing he expects is to run into his first love. She’s not expecting him either. But this reunion encourages them to see their lives differently. The more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the growing feelings. Now, there’s so much more to consider before they take the leap.
They have to decide if love is worth the risk or if they’re forever better off as friends.
This book contains mature themes and explicit content, and is intended for readers 18+
446 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 24, 2025
4 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Anna P.
15 books129 followersSince she was a child, Anna has lived in a world of imagination—teaching in a classroom to being an astronaut, she’s done it all.
Anna has a Masters in Creative Writing, and a love for music and writing got her jobs with Rolling Stone India and Sony Music. After a couple of years of selling her soul to advertising, she’s finally following her dream of writing books.
Currently living in South India, she rocks out to Foo Fighters and reads 300 romance novels a year. She works as a copy consultant and book editor, while sipping on copious amounts of black tea.
Anna has a Masters in Creative Writing, and a love for music and writing got her jobs with Rolling Stone India and Sony Music. After a couple of years of selling her soul to advertising, she’s finally following her dream of writing books.
Currently living in South India, she rocks out to Foo Fighters and reads 300 romance novels a year. She works as a copy consultant and book editor, while sipping on copious amounts of black tea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 11, 2025
pre-read ✿༄࿔｡☆˚.
I am so excited!!!
ARC REVIEW
Rating: ★★★★★
Spice: ♡♡
Anna has outdone herself! An amazing ending to one of the most beautiful and very underrated series. The whole book was calm, cozy, and serene. If you look at it like a graph, it almost goes like a straight line with some waves here and there. Now, there were some tough topics discussed and a lot of emotions too- it was not full of sunshine and rainbows. And Anna handled those like a queen! What I am saying is, as someone who read the whole series, I can't think of a more perfect ending than this.
Even though this is a standalone, reading the previous books will truly elevate your experience.
Now about the book, I have been anticipating Daisy & Raff's story since the 4th book, and not only did I get them but also an amazing and brilliant Callahan - that child was the sweetest! The story was so slow, like really slow but it was what the story needed. There was flirting, laughing, cuteness, tears, and spice. They had amazing chemistry and a heart-clenching past. Cal's character was like the icing on their romance. Everything was so sweet - the side characters, Boots-their senior dog, the flower shop setting, the letters, and so many more!!
I am the happiest and most grateful person for receiving the ARC of this amazing book. Thank you so much, Anna.
TROPES:
Florist x Firefighter
Childhood friends to lovers
Met after decades (36 and 39)
Second chance(ish)
Small town
Single dad
Slow burn (like, really slow)
She fell first, he fell harder
Dual timeline
Letters
Check the TWs from the author's website
I am so excited!!!
ARC REVIEW
Rating: ★★★★★
Spice: ♡♡
Anna has outdone herself! An amazing ending to one of the most beautiful and very underrated series. The whole book was calm, cozy, and serene. If you look at it like a graph, it almost goes like a straight line with some waves here and there. Now, there were some tough topics discussed and a lot of emotions too- it was not full of sunshine and rainbows. And Anna handled those like a queen! What I am saying is, as someone who read the whole series, I can't think of a more perfect ending than this.
Even though this is a standalone, reading the previous books will truly elevate your experience.
Now about the book, I have been anticipating Daisy & Raff's story since the 4th book, and not only did I get them but also an amazing and brilliant Callahan - that child was the sweetest! The story was so slow, like really slow but it was what the story needed. There was flirting, laughing, cuteness, tears, and spice. They had amazing chemistry and a heart-clenching past. Cal's character was like the icing on their romance. Everything was so sweet - the side characters, Boots-their senior dog, the flower shop setting, the letters, and so many more!!
I am the happiest and most grateful person for receiving the ARC of this amazing book. Thank you so much, Anna.
TROPES:
Florist x Firefighter
Childhood friends to lovers
Met after decades (36 and 39)
Second chance(ish)
Small town
Single dad
Slow burn (like, really slow)
She fell first, he fell harder
Dual timeline
Letters
Check the TWs from the author's website
February 23, 2025
I received an advanced copy and these are my thoughts:
This was a heartfelt and heartwarming love story.
After not being in contact for the last 20 years, childhood/adolescent best friends - Daisy and Rafferty, bump into each other in the small town of Wildes. Having each faced tough times and broken marriages, these former best friends had never truly left each other's minds and hearts over the years.
Now in each other's lives once again, will the feelings they once had come rushing back? And despite all their fears and insecurities, will they act on them in order to finally find happily ever after?
I very much enjoy a friends to lovers and second chance romance and Anna delivered a deliciously romantic and spicy story, that will have you swooning with how flirty and hot Daisy and Rafferty are.
The romance and "fluffiness" is well balanced with the health and mental health representations - PCOD/PCOS, migraines, anxiety and body image issues. You feel for the characters and with how much they suffer and suffered in the past. Raff is also a single parent and that plays a big role in their decision to take things slow at first. Daisy suffered from body image issues. Anna did a great job in portraying body positivity and how it's an everyday struggle and "choice" to see yourself in a positive way. Raff was quite helpful too - he adored everything about Daisy, even when she didn't and he wasn't afraid to tell her. I was happy to see therapy being portrayed in a positive way. Needing professional help should never mean someone is weak and unworthy.
I loved Cal! Raff's son was a great character and the family they created was heartwarming. I very much enjoyed Daisy and Raff's friends - they were inclusive, supportive and caring, creating a great big found family.
The slow burn was slow, but Daisy and Raff were flirty and their banter lightened the heavier load. But once they "threw caution to the wind" they were on fire! They had great chemistry.
If you like:
-small town,
-friends to lovers,
-second chance
-single dad
-mental health rep
-found family
then pick up this book!
[Spice: 2.5/5]
This was a heartfelt and heartwarming love story.
After not being in contact for the last 20 years, childhood/adolescent best friends - Daisy and Rafferty, bump into each other in the small town of Wildes. Having each faced tough times and broken marriages, these former best friends had never truly left each other's minds and hearts over the years.
Now in each other's lives once again, will the feelings they once had come rushing back? And despite all their fears and insecurities, will they act on them in order to finally find happily ever after?
I very much enjoy a friends to lovers and second chance romance and Anna delivered a deliciously romantic and spicy story, that will have you swooning with how flirty and hot Daisy and Rafferty are.
The romance and "fluffiness" is well balanced with the health and mental health representations - PCOD/PCOS, migraines, anxiety and body image issues. You feel for the characters and with how much they suffer and suffered in the past. Raff is also a single parent and that plays a big role in their decision to take things slow at first. Daisy suffered from body image issues. Anna did a great job in portraying body positivity and how it's an everyday struggle and "choice" to see yourself in a positive way. Raff was quite helpful too - he adored everything about Daisy, even when she didn't and he wasn't afraid to tell her. I was happy to see therapy being portrayed in a positive way. Needing professional help should never mean someone is weak and unworthy.
I loved Cal! Raff's son was a great character and the family they created was heartwarming. I very much enjoyed Daisy and Raff's friends - they were inclusive, supportive and caring, creating a great big found family.
The slow burn was slow, but Daisy and Raff were flirty and their banter lightened the heavier load. But once they "threw caution to the wind" they were on fire! They had great chemistry.
If you like:
-small town,
-friends to lovers,
-second chance
-single dad
-mental health rep
-found family
then pick up this book!
[Spice: 2.5/5]
February 24, 2025
4.25 ⭐
Before I begin I want to thank the author, Anna P., for giving me this ARC.
This was such a cute read. I really liked this. The thing that I liked the most about this book was how realistic it was. The characters actually thought about their actions and the way it would affect each other. I really liked how all the characters are written, but my favorite was definitely Cal. I think it's hard to write a child and not just make them feel flat. But Anna did it so well and made Cal a character that's dynamic and incorporated him into the plot.
Overall I really enjoyed reading this and I'll definitely read the other books in this interconnected serie!
Before I begin I want to thank the author, Anna P., for giving me this ARC.
This was such a cute read. I really liked this. The thing that I liked the most about this book was how realistic it was. The characters actually thought about their actions and the way it would affect each other. I really liked how all the characters are written, but my favorite was definitely Cal. I think it's hard to write a child and not just make them feel flat. But Anna did it so well and made Cal a character that's dynamic and incorporated him into the plot.
Overall I really enjoyed reading this and I'll definitely read the other books in this interconnected serie!
February 25, 2025
Daisy and Raff are honestly just everything 🖤🥹
This story is slow, but in the absolute best way possible. They needed slow. They needed the laughs and the build up. It makes the outcome so much better.
As someone who suffers from chronic headaches due to my diagnosis and has suffered with body imagine my entire life, I felt absolutely so connected to Daisy. She was such a relatable character that I feel like SO MANY of us can relate too. The migraines were depicted perfectly and the struggles with finding onsets and triggers was spot on.
Raff was the perfect single dad / book boyfriend mix and i couldn’t get enough of him. He was respectful, sexy, and CHERISHED the group Daisy walked on.
I haven’t read the other books in the series and i still enjoyed this deeply, but I also will be going back and reading the rest of the series!
Cal was absolutely perfect. I adored the little man, and the fact that him choosing that little town was all a big set up was perfect.
I love a single dad romance that isn’t him falling for his nanny, and this second chance, it’s always been you single dad romance was 🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼😮💨😮💨😮💨
Finally, Roe & Daisy’s friendship was one of my favorite parts of the book. Their banter was absolutely perfect and reminded me of me and my best friend.
You’ll find:
💐 Florist / Firefighter
🔥 Childhood Friends to Lovers
💐 It’s Always Been You
🔥 Second Chance (ish) - They lost touch for a decade or so
💐 Small Town Romance
🔥 Single Dad
💐 (super, but perfectly) Slowburn
🔥 Dual Timeline
💐 Letters
SO BASICALLY i loved it, i had a great time, & this is def going to end up being an author i consistently return to! ABSOLUTELY go read it! 👏🏼 🖤
This story is slow, but in the absolute best way possible. They needed slow. They needed the laughs and the build up. It makes the outcome so much better.
As someone who suffers from chronic headaches due to my diagnosis and has suffered with body imagine my entire life, I felt absolutely so connected to Daisy. She was such a relatable character that I feel like SO MANY of us can relate too. The migraines were depicted perfectly and the struggles with finding onsets and triggers was spot on.
Raff was the perfect single dad / book boyfriend mix and i couldn’t get enough of him. He was respectful, sexy, and CHERISHED the group Daisy walked on.
I haven’t read the other books in the series and i still enjoyed this deeply, but I also will be going back and reading the rest of the series!
Cal was absolutely perfect. I adored the little man, and the fact that him choosing that little town was all a big set up was perfect.
I love a single dad romance that isn’t him falling for his nanny, and this second chance, it’s always been you single dad romance was 🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼😮💨😮💨😮💨
Finally, Roe & Daisy’s friendship was one of my favorite parts of the book. Their banter was absolutely perfect and reminded me of me and my best friend.
You’ll find:
💐 Florist / Firefighter
🔥 Childhood Friends to Lovers
💐 It’s Always Been You
🔥 Second Chance (ish) - They lost touch for a decade or so
💐 Small Town Romance
🔥 Single Dad
💐 (super, but perfectly) Slowburn
🔥 Dual Timeline
💐 Letters
SO BASICALLY i loved it, i had a great time, & this is def going to end up being an author i consistently return to! ABSOLUTELY go read it! 👏🏼 🖤
March 10, 2025
Rafferty and Daisy are former childhood friends who lose touch over the years and reconnect when he moves to Wildes.
It’s been twenty years since she’s seen him, but Daisy’s life has moved forward. She got married and divorced, started a business and built a small, but good life. Struggles with her body and harsh memories of her childhood haven’t faded, but she’s happier now.
Meanwhile, Rafferty has been quietly struggling. Since his own divorce, he’s been working two jobs as he raised his nine-year-old son alone. While he’s not looking for someone, he’s also not had the time to really consider what a relationship would be like for him now.
When he moves his son to a small town that doesn’t even appear on a map, the last thing he expects is to run into his first love. She’s not expecting him either. But this reunion encourages them to see their lives differently. The more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the growing feelings. Now, there’s so much more to consider before they take the leap.
They have to decide if love is worth the risk or if they’re forever better off as friends.
Please refer to the author’s website (annawriteshere.com) for a full list of content and trigger warnings.
First book to make me teary this year and an easy 5⭐️. Daisy and Raff have made my top 5 favourite couples!!
It’s been twenty years since she’s seen him, but Daisy’s life has moved forward. She got married and divorced, started a business and built a small, but good life. Struggles with her body and harsh memories of her childhood haven’t faded, but she’s happier now.
Meanwhile, Rafferty has been quietly struggling. Since his own divorce, he’s been working two jobs as he raised his nine-year-old son alone. While he’s not looking for someone, he’s also not had the time to really consider what a relationship would be like for him now.
When he moves his son to a small town that doesn’t even appear on a map, the last thing he expects is to run into his first love. She’s not expecting him either. But this reunion encourages them to see their lives differently. The more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore the growing feelings. Now, there’s so much more to consider before they take the leap.
They have to decide if love is worth the risk or if they’re forever better off as friends.
Please refer to the author’s website (annawriteshere.com) for a full list of content and trigger warnings.
First book to make me teary this year and an easy 5⭐️. Daisy and Raff have made my top 5 favourite couples!!
March 8, 2025
The PINING. Anna’s writing is so dreamy. I—🥰
March 23, 2025
Series finales are often so bittersweet, aren’t they? I have been waiting for this final book ever since Anna hinted at this couple, but now I’m sad that I’ve just finished the final book in the Wildes series.
Twenty years ago, best friends—who secretly loved each other— Daisy and Rafferty were separated by distance when Daisy’s dad moved them away for work. While they tried to keep in touch, they never saw each other again. Lives were lived; marriages, divorces.
When Rafferty and his son move to a small town, the last person he expects to bump into is Daisy Heroux, his first love. And she’s not expecting him either.
There’s an undeniable string that keeps tugging them together. Now, they have to decide whether it's finally their time and if this love is worth the risk.
I have so much love for these books. Can't recommend them enough. Diverse representation in every way, lovable characters, beautiful small town, found family, and big, big love.
Twenty years ago, best friends—who secretly loved each other— Daisy and Rafferty were separated by distance when Daisy’s dad moved them away for work. While they tried to keep in touch, they never saw each other again. Lives were lived; marriages, divorces.
When Rafferty and his son move to a small town, the last person he expects to bump into is Daisy Heroux, his first love. And she’s not expecting him either.
There’s an undeniable string that keeps tugging them together. Now, they have to decide whether it's finally their time and if this love is worth the risk.
I have so much love for these books. Can't recommend them enough. Diverse representation in every way, lovable characters, beautiful small town, found family, and big, big love.
February 15, 2025
Thank you Anna for an ARC of this book!
This is the last book in the Love in Wildes series and it feels like the end of an era. 😭 Anna, you have truly outdone yourself! I love each and every one of our Wildes couples but Dafferty have an extra special place in my heart. They represent everything I love and there’s just an overwhelming sense of comfort in seeing them find their way back to each other. I LOVE THEM. PERIOD.
Daisy. I wanted to squeeze her in a hug bc life dealt her a lot of tough hands and I hated that people made our girl feel less than, esp by turning her against her own body. SHE IS BEAUTIFUL, INSIDE AND OUT. Just ask Raff, he’d agree. And damn, it hit hard watching Daisy struggle with her insecurities. Bc even tho situations differ, the emotions still felt personal. I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that all of us have days where we just don’t love our body and just getting to that point of acceptance is not easy. So seeing Daisy work through those hard days to own her body was so empowering. So many tears but SHE DESERVED THE WORLD AND MORE.
And I’m so thankful Raff was there to make sure she knew it. Our man has been through his fair share of life and being a single dad, even to a kid as delightful as Cal, took its toll. I loved that with Raff, we really got to see him find and build community for himself and his son. The man gave and gave and he deserved to receive too!!! Yes, that included love from our leading lady. 😉 But also from new friends who stepped in to help him navigate life in his new town. The HAPPINESS we saw when he finally started to settle in? 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 And I can’t not mention Cal bc this kid was a SCENE. STEALER. I loved him so much!!! THE CUTEST RAY OF SUNSHINE.
CN: open-door romance, toxic parents, bullying, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, chronic migraines, PCOD, infertility, anxiety, scenes involving fires
This is the last book in the Love in Wildes series and it feels like the end of an era. 😭 Anna, you have truly outdone yourself! I love each and every one of our Wildes couples but Dafferty have an extra special place in my heart. They represent everything I love and there’s just an overwhelming sense of comfort in seeing them find their way back to each other. I LOVE THEM. PERIOD.
Daisy. I wanted to squeeze her in a hug bc life dealt her a lot of tough hands and I hated that people made our girl feel less than, esp by turning her against her own body. SHE IS BEAUTIFUL, INSIDE AND OUT. Just ask Raff, he’d agree. And damn, it hit hard watching Daisy struggle with her insecurities. Bc even tho situations differ, the emotions still felt personal. I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that all of us have days where we just don’t love our body and just getting to that point of acceptance is not easy. So seeing Daisy work through those hard days to own her body was so empowering. So many tears but SHE DESERVED THE WORLD AND MORE.
And I’m so thankful Raff was there to make sure she knew it. Our man has been through his fair share of life and being a single dad, even to a kid as delightful as Cal, took its toll. I loved that with Raff, we really got to see him find and build community for himself and his son. The man gave and gave and he deserved to receive too!!! Yes, that included love from our leading lady. 😉 But also from new friends who stepped in to help him navigate life in his new town. The HAPPINESS we saw when he finally started to settle in? 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 And I can’t not mention Cal bc this kid was a SCENE. STEALER. I loved him so much!!! THE CUTEST RAY OF SUNSHINE.
CN: open-door romance, toxic parents, bullying, bulimia, body dysmorphic disorder, chronic migraines, PCOD, infertility, anxiety, scenes involving fires
February 25, 2025
Thank you, Anna, for the ARC!
Y’all, this book had me in my feels! Almost Always is a beautifully written second-chance romance that brings all the nostalgia, all the small-town vibes, and all the heartwarming moments I crave in a love story. This is book six in the Love in Wildes series, but you can totally read it as a standalone (though if you love interconnected characters like I do, you’ll appreciate the familiar faces!).
Daisy and Rafferty were childhood best friends who lost touch, and now, decades later, fate (and a small-town twist) brings them back together. Daisy has been through a lot, coming out of an unhappy marriage and rebuilding her life, but she’s finally in a place where she feels content. Rafferty is a hardworking single dad juggling multiple jobs while raising his adorable son, Callahan. When these two cross paths again, old feelings resurface, and whew, the pining is real!
This book had everything I love: slow-burn romance, heartfelt emotional depth, and some seriously cute moments. The chemistry between Daisy and Rafferty is chef’s kiss, and the way Anna writes their connection feels so real—it’s the little things, like unspoken glances, old letters, and those quiet moments where you just feel how much they mean to each other. And let’s not forget Callahan and Boots (the senior dog!) who absolutely stole my heart.
Anna P. knows how to blend warmth, humor, and just the right amount of angst. This story isn’t just about romance, it’s about healing, rediscovering yourself, and realizing that sometimes, love finds you when you least expect it.
If you love small-town romances, second-chance love stories, and books that feel like a warm hug, Almost Always needs to be on your TBR. Trust me, you’ll be rooting for Daisy and Rafferty the whole way through!
As usual, Anna knocks it out of the park. She is one of my instant buy/read authors.
Y’all, this book had me in my feels! Almost Always is a beautifully written second-chance romance that brings all the nostalgia, all the small-town vibes, and all the heartwarming moments I crave in a love story. This is book six in the Love in Wildes series, but you can totally read it as a standalone (though if you love interconnected characters like I do, you’ll appreciate the familiar faces!).
Daisy and Rafferty were childhood best friends who lost touch, and now, decades later, fate (and a small-town twist) brings them back together. Daisy has been through a lot, coming out of an unhappy marriage and rebuilding her life, but she’s finally in a place where she feels content. Rafferty is a hardworking single dad juggling multiple jobs while raising his adorable son, Callahan. When these two cross paths again, old feelings resurface, and whew, the pining is real!
This book had everything I love: slow-burn romance, heartfelt emotional depth, and some seriously cute moments. The chemistry between Daisy and Rafferty is chef’s kiss, and the way Anna writes their connection feels so real—it’s the little things, like unspoken glances, old letters, and those quiet moments where you just feel how much they mean to each other. And let’s not forget Callahan and Boots (the senior dog!) who absolutely stole my heart.
Anna P. knows how to blend warmth, humor, and just the right amount of angst. This story isn’t just about romance, it’s about healing, rediscovering yourself, and realizing that sometimes, love finds you when you least expect it.
If you love small-town romances, second-chance love stories, and books that feel like a warm hug, Almost Always needs to be on your TBR. Trust me, you’ll be rooting for Daisy and Rafferty the whole way through!
As usual, Anna knocks it out of the park. She is one of my instant buy/read authors.
February 27, 2025
Full post at ihavetosay.blog
4.5, rounded to 5 stars
Thank you to the author, @annawriteshere for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Out now! Available through Kindle Unlimited.
This is the 6th book in an interconnected romance series in a small town. This story is told from the third person from both Rafferty and Daisy’s perspective.
Daisy now is divorced, running her own business inspired by her childhood, and in therapy. She deals with crippling migraines, is working through her eating disorder, and has PCOD.
Rafferty now is a single father who runs the landscaping company his father started, is a part time firefighter, and is also in therapy. Rafferty is advised to not spread himself too thin and to make friends and build a community for his son as they adjust to moving to a small town.
After reconnecting, Daisy and Rafferty realize they other never forgot about each other, and have done little things individually to memorialize the other, like keep hats, get tattoos, and even open a flower shop (last one is my opinion). Their unwavering love for each other after all this time gave lovey-dovey.
Rafferty’s meddling nine year old son comes out of his shell and flourishes as the story goes on and it was cute. His relationship with Daisy was sweet too. Rafferty is also a great dad, who is there for his son and embraces his quirks.
Tropes included are:
🌼 Single Dad
🌼 Divorcees
🌼 Interracial Romance (South Indian x White (Italian))
🌼 Slow Burn
🌼 Florist x Firefighter/Landscaper
🌼 Childhood friends to strangers to lovers
🌼 Dual timeline
🌼 It’s always been you
OVERALL
Overall, I give this a 4.5 out of 5 stars. I had a great time reading them finally confess their love and become a family. I want to go back and read the others now.
4.5, rounded to 5 stars
Thank you to the author, @annawriteshere for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Out now! Available through Kindle Unlimited.
This is the 6th book in an interconnected romance series in a small town. This story is told from the third person from both Rafferty and Daisy’s perspective.
Daisy now is divorced, running her own business inspired by her childhood, and in therapy. She deals with crippling migraines, is working through her eating disorder, and has PCOD.
Rafferty now is a single father who runs the landscaping company his father started, is a part time firefighter, and is also in therapy. Rafferty is advised to not spread himself too thin and to make friends and build a community for his son as they adjust to moving to a small town.
After reconnecting, Daisy and Rafferty realize they other never forgot about each other, and have done little things individually to memorialize the other, like keep hats, get tattoos, and even open a flower shop (last one is my opinion). Their unwavering love for each other after all this time gave lovey-dovey.
Rafferty’s meddling nine year old son comes out of his shell and flourishes as the story goes on and it was cute. His relationship with Daisy was sweet too. Rafferty is also a great dad, who is there for his son and embraces his quirks.
Tropes included are:
🌼 Single Dad
🌼 Divorcees
🌼 Interracial Romance (South Indian x White (Italian))
🌼 Slow Burn
🌼 Florist x Firefighter/Landscaper
🌼 Childhood friends to strangers to lovers
🌼 Dual timeline
🌼 It’s always been you
OVERALL
Overall, I give this a 4.5 out of 5 stars. I had a great time reading them finally confess their love and become a family. I want to go back and read the others now.
February 24, 2025
So excited that I got to receive this eARC for Almost Always by Anna P.!
Florist x firefighter? Slow burn? Dual timeline? Yes, please! Second-chance romances + friends-to-lovers have really grown on me since the beginning of 2024. I’m glad that Almost Always is one of the books that has shown me that a beautiful romance can blossom from these two tropes.
I could literally FEEL the tension from the pages between the reunion of Rafferty and Daisy. It was so beautiful, heartbreaking, and nostalgic to see their different perspectives of their childhood. I also loved that Rafferty wrote a bunch of letters to Daisy. They really added to the yearning that he felt for her and intensified the nostalgia, love, and loss.
Daisy is SUCH a wonderful character. Coming from many obstacles in her childhood, I really appreciate how much she persevered and worked on herself. I will say, her anxiety sounds exactly like mine LOL like when she paces or looks up news and makes herself more anxious. I also loved how great of a relationship she has with her dad and step-mom. She has a tight-knit group of friends and family, it’s amazing to see people keep their peace.
Cal is such a little trickster LOL if you’ve read it, you know exactly how Daisy and Rafferty came to reunite. I can 100% picture doting grandparents helping their grandchild pull off a scheme without telling their parents. But seriously, he’s a sweet kid and Boots BETTER live forever
Overall, this was a great story about childhood friends reuniting and reigniting their love. Readers get to see the life of a single dad, people in therapy, couples trying for a child, a woman running her own business, and more.
Florist x firefighter? Slow burn? Dual timeline? Yes, please! Second-chance romances + friends-to-lovers have really grown on me since the beginning of 2024. I’m glad that Almost Always is one of the books that has shown me that a beautiful romance can blossom from these two tropes.
I could literally FEEL the tension from the pages between the reunion of Rafferty and Daisy. It was so beautiful, heartbreaking, and nostalgic to see their different perspectives of their childhood. I also loved that Rafferty wrote a bunch of letters to Daisy. They really added to the yearning that he felt for her and intensified the nostalgia, love, and loss.
Daisy is SUCH a wonderful character. Coming from many obstacles in her childhood, I really appreciate how much she persevered and worked on herself. I will say, her anxiety sounds exactly like mine LOL like when she paces or looks up news and makes herself more anxious. I also loved how great of a relationship she has with her dad and step-mom. She has a tight-knit group of friends and family, it’s amazing to see people keep their peace.
Cal is such a little trickster LOL if you’ve read it, you know exactly how Daisy and Rafferty came to reunite. I can 100% picture doting grandparents helping their grandchild pull off a scheme without telling their parents. But seriously, he’s a sweet kid and Boots BETTER live forever
Overall, this was a great story about childhood friends reuniting and reigniting their love. Readers get to see the life of a single dad, people in therapy, couples trying for a child, a woman running her own business, and more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2025
This is my first book by this author and I was lucky enough to get an ARC opportunity. Rafferty and Daisy are childhood friends who are back in the same small town after 20 years and a divorce apiece. Rafferty, a single dad who runs a landscaping business and is also a volunteer firefighter, fell for Daisy when his family helped care for her as a child who came from a rough situation. Daisy, after years of childhood trauma at the hands of her mother, found a soft space to land with her father and his neighbors, Rafferty's family. After running into one another in the small town of Wildes, the two rekindle their friendship and begin discussing the chemistry they once had that still seems to be present. Add in Rafferty's precocious son, Cal, and their dog Boots, and this book is heartwarming and sweet while also having plenty of open-door spice.
I love the premise of the novel, the friends-to-lovers trope is one of my all-time favorites, but I struggled with the pacing of this novel. There was a lack of movement in the plot, no major drama or timelines to advance the relationships and it felt, to me, that it took too long to get to the HEA knowing that these two were already so mentally together. I wanted a bit more from the situations in order to sell that they could make things work as adults. That said, the spice in this novel? Perfection. Everyone needs a Rafferty to talk them down or up and stay dedicated. Overall cute, just needed a little oomph to really sell it as a full-length novel.
Spice rating: 3.5/5
Overall rating: 3/5
I love the premise of the novel, the friends-to-lovers trope is one of my all-time favorites, but I struggled with the pacing of this novel. There was a lack of movement in the plot, no major drama or timelines to advance the relationships and it felt, to me, that it took too long to get to the HEA knowing that these two were already so mentally together. I wanted a bit more from the situations in order to sell that they could make things work as adults. That said, the spice in this novel? Perfection. Everyone needs a Rafferty to talk them down or up and stay dedicated. Overall cute, just needed a little oomph to really sell it as a full-length novel.
Spice rating: 3.5/5
Overall rating: 3/5
April 30, 2025
✨ Okay, first of all—WOW. This book had me hooked from the start! It was my first time reading a single dad romance, and honestly, I loved it. The whole story gave me such a take care vibe (you know what I mean), and it felt so comforting.
❤️ But beyond the romance, what really stood out to me was how deeply this book touched on mental health. It brings up some really important topics—how parenting affects us, how school policies and certain phrases stay with us for a lifetime, and how family dynamics shape our well-being. It also dives into anxiety and the emotional struggles we don’t always talk about. The way these aspects were woven into the story? So well done. This book didn’t just give me a romance; it gave me perspective.
🌹 Now, coming to the wow elements—THE CONCEPT. It was just chef’s kiss! The characters? Loved them! They all had such a homely, warm vibe that made me feel like I was right there with them. And the cover? Yes, I love it. Fits the book perfectly!
🔥 The MMC? Absolutely my favorite. But the FMC? Loved her too. And don’t even get me started on the little ones —SO adorable! The friendships, the little moments, the SPICE (yes, my friends, it’s there!)—everything made this book such an enjoyable read.
👌🏻Would I recommend it? Absolutely.
✨ Now, if I had to point out one thing, the pace was definitely on the slower side. Some parts felt a bit dragged, but since it’s a slow burn, I was willing to let it slide. Still, if you’re not a fan of slow-paced books, just keep that in mind.
❤️ But beyond the romance, what really stood out to me was how deeply this book touched on mental health. It brings up some really important topics—how parenting affects us, how school policies and certain phrases stay with us for a lifetime, and how family dynamics shape our well-being. It also dives into anxiety and the emotional struggles we don’t always talk about. The way these aspects were woven into the story? So well done. This book didn’t just give me a romance; it gave me perspective.
🌹 Now, coming to the wow elements—THE CONCEPT. It was just chef’s kiss! The characters? Loved them! They all had such a homely, warm vibe that made me feel like I was right there with them. And the cover? Yes, I love it. Fits the book perfectly!
🔥 The MMC? Absolutely my favorite. But the FMC? Loved her too. And don’t even get me started on the little ones —SO adorable! The friendships, the little moments, the SPICE (yes, my friends, it’s there!)—everything made this book such an enjoyable read.
👌🏻Would I recommend it? Absolutely.
✨ Now, if I had to point out one thing, the pace was definitely on the slower side. Some parts felt a bit dragged, but since it’s a slow burn, I was willing to let it slide. Still, if you’re not a fan of slow-paced books, just keep that in mind.
February 12, 2025
Advanced Reader Copy received, with no incentives to post or review.
Daisy is a florist, and Rafferty is a landscaper and volunteer firefighter. They’re both late-thirties/40, and were childhood friends and each other’s first love. Both Daisy and Rafferty are divorced now, and meet in the small town, Wildes. Rafferty has a 9-year-old son, who I adored.
I haven’t read any of the other books in the series, so I can say with confidence that this works as a standalone novel.
I loved the first few chapters of getting to know the MCs individually before having them re-meet.
There are so many small moments in this book that I absolutely adored. (Spoiler: like when in a sex scene they both admit to being clean, and her on birth control, but she still asks him to use a condom.) Including both of the characters being in therapy, dealing with their own complex health issues and lives.
The sex scenes had the perfect amount of heat. There wasn’t too many, and the build up to them was so enjoyable to read.
No third act breakup. HEA is a given. Meddling children - excellent!
Content warnings:
* toxic parent relationships
* bullying (by parents and fellow students)
* eating disorder – bulimia (survivor)
* body dysmorphic disorder
* chronic migraine
* PCOS/PCOD
* infertility
* postpartum depression
* manslaughter (referenced)
* self worth and anxiety struggles
* firefighter
* therapy scenes
* anxious child
Daisy is a florist, and Rafferty is a landscaper and volunteer firefighter. They’re both late-thirties/40, and were childhood friends and each other’s first love. Both Daisy and Rafferty are divorced now, and meet in the small town, Wildes. Rafferty has a 9-year-old son, who I adored.
I haven’t read any of the other books in the series, so I can say with confidence that this works as a standalone novel.
I loved the first few chapters of getting to know the MCs individually before having them re-meet.
There are so many small moments in this book that I absolutely adored. (Spoiler: like when in a sex scene they both admit to being clean, and her on birth control, but she still asks him to use a condom.) Including both of the characters being in therapy, dealing with their own complex health issues and lives.
The sex scenes had the perfect amount of heat. There wasn’t too many, and the build up to them was so enjoyable to read.
No third act breakup. HEA is a given. Meddling children - excellent!
Content warnings:
* toxic parent relationships
* bullying (by parents and fellow students)
* eating disorder – bulimia (survivor)
* body dysmorphic disorder
* chronic migraine
* PCOS/PCOD
* infertility
* postpartum depression
* manslaughter (referenced)
* self worth and anxiety struggles
* firefighter
* therapy scenes
* anxious child
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2025
Congratulations, Anna, on the sixth and final book in your Love in Wildes series, Almost Always.
And as always---see what I did there?---I enjoyed your book. Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this! This second chance, healing tale of former best friends Rafferty (single dad) and Daisy (divorcee) re-uniting after twenty years, was the reminder we all need that others often see the beauty in us that we can’t.
I love how safe I feel reading Anna’s books. I can trust that she will handle hard topics with sensitivity and compassion, and certainly for both Daisy and Rafferty, there had been trauma with a capital T. I so appreciated both the realistic ways in which that showed up as well as how they each had counsellors and friends, and were able to support each other through those tough moments with thoughtful communication and reflection---refreshing in the romance world!
Also important in this book was Rafferty’s child. As a rule, I tend to avoid books (romance in particular) where there are children, but after checking with Anna, felt comfortable to proceed and LOVED Cal, as well as the connection that he developed with Daisy. I appreciated that Cal and his needs were the priority in how they all spent their time together, and in how they allowed their relationship to develop.
Overall, I’d hang out with Cal, Rafferty and Daisy any day, and that’s a lot of what I look for in a book. Well done, Anna. Excited to read books two through five!
And as always---see what I did there?---I enjoyed your book. Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this! This second chance, healing tale of former best friends Rafferty (single dad) and Daisy (divorcee) re-uniting after twenty years, was the reminder we all need that others often see the beauty in us that we can’t.
I love how safe I feel reading Anna’s books. I can trust that she will handle hard topics with sensitivity and compassion, and certainly for both Daisy and Rafferty, there had been trauma with a capital T. I so appreciated both the realistic ways in which that showed up as well as how they each had counsellors and friends, and were able to support each other through those tough moments with thoughtful communication and reflection---refreshing in the romance world!
Also important in this book was Rafferty’s child. As a rule, I tend to avoid books (romance in particular) where there are children, but after checking with Anna, felt comfortable to proceed and LOVED Cal, as well as the connection that he developed with Daisy. I appreciated that Cal and his needs were the priority in how they all spent their time together, and in how they allowed their relationship to develop.
Overall, I’d hang out with Cal, Rafferty and Daisy any day, and that’s a lot of what I look for in a book. Well done, Anna. Excited to read books two through five!
February 15, 2025
This book is too beautiful for words. Rafferty and Daisy are the perfect couple. They compliment each other well. Not to mention Cal- the cutest little kid ever. I was stoked when Cal was introduced and I just knew he was going to be besties with Dig. I appreciate how this book talked about and showed the importance of mental health- the good, the bad, and the journey that never ends. I have to say- Roe had some of the best lines in this book. Not only do you get an amazing love story in an adorable small town, you get to spend time with a supportive and diverse friend group. I am not usually one for dual timeline stories, because I feel like most authors jump cut you at the worst times. I was nervous that this book would be the same. Trust me when I tell you the use of dual timelines was not jarring and overdone in this book. Somehow, the author was able to smoothly navigate us in and out of years seamlessly. There is a reveal near the end of the book that I didn't see coming. It blew me away. This has been my favorite book of the entire series and it was the perfect conclusion. This book was beautiful, believable, and brilliant. I highly reccommend it.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2025
The last book in Anna’s Love in Wildes series follows Daisy and Rafferty, two childhood friends who haven’t seen each other in twenty years and end up in the same small town.
I won’t lie and say I fell in love with them. Their story is a slow burn, sweet, sexy, and sentimental romance that had me hooked. This book made me laugh and cry. Daisy is so relatable and her story resonated with me. I loved that she was in therapy and working through things and that even though Rafferty brought so much joy into her life, his love didn’t magically fix her.
Rafferty is beautiful, not just physically but as you get to know him and see his heart, you’re left in awe at this man. He is the best dad. His son Cal melts me and the relationship between the two is so precious. I love that throughout Rafferty re-meeting Daisy and falling for her, his son remains his priority.
Some of my favorite little things are - tattoos that connect Daisy and Rafferty, their nicknames for each other, their love for Cal, Boots the dog, and the way they see each other and are seen by each other.
It’s a FIVE STAR finale for me. Thank you Anna for the ARC, and for writing six amazing books. I can’t wait to read what’s next! 💜
I won’t lie and say I fell in love with them. Their story is a slow burn, sweet, sexy, and sentimental romance that had me hooked. This book made me laugh and cry. Daisy is so relatable and her story resonated with me. I loved that she was in therapy and working through things and that even though Rafferty brought so much joy into her life, his love didn’t magically fix her.
Rafferty is beautiful, not just physically but as you get to know him and see his heart, you’re left in awe at this man. He is the best dad. His son Cal melts me and the relationship between the two is so precious. I love that throughout Rafferty re-meeting Daisy and falling for her, his son remains his priority.
Some of my favorite little things are - tattoos that connect Daisy and Rafferty, their nicknames for each other, their love for Cal, Boots the dog, and the way they see each other and are seen by each other.
It’s a FIVE STAR finale for me. Thank you Anna for the ARC, and for writing six amazing books. I can’t wait to read what’s next! 💜
February 25, 2025
Almost Always by Anna P. was a wonderful read. I loved Daisy and Rafferty, I love a second-chance romance, if it is done correctly and this one is done perfectly. It’s a slow burn, I was wondering if there was going to be spice, and then boom…the heat count goes up and the wait was well worth it. I loved Rafferty, he was a lovely tattooed piece of man…I loved how much Rafferty poured into Daisy, he loved her through all her weaknesses and her insecurities. Daisy was strong, yet open about her weak spots, leaning into where she had grown and still open about where she needed to grow. As a fellow migraine sufferer, she spoke to me when she was suffering, I felt it deeply.
I so appreciated how mental health was discussed, how open characters were with their feelings, it was entirely refreshing. This was my first ARC from this author and she has a whole bunch from this series that I haven’t read before that I will definitely be reading to fall in love with the other characters too. Don’t be like me and wait to find these wonderful characters, find them now and prepare to fall in love with Daisy, Rafferty, Cal, and Boots—***** (4.9 stars .1 star would be if the spice started sooner).
I so appreciated how mental health was discussed, how open characters were with their feelings, it was entirely refreshing. This was my first ARC from this author and she has a whole bunch from this series that I haven’t read before that I will definitely be reading to fall in love with the other characters too. Don’t be like me and wait to find these wonderful characters, find them now and prepare to fall in love with Daisy, Rafferty, Cal, and Boots—***** (4.9 stars .1 star would be if the spice started sooner).
March 11, 2025
“ I always said you’d be the most beautiful person in every room.”
“ Sit under the stars with me.”
Two quotes. Two decades apart. One man named Rafferty Ames. But they manage to have an impact on Daisy Heroux ❤️
ALMOST ALWAYS in the final book in @annawriteshere Love in the Wildes series (congrats on a completed series!!) and is OUT NOW! Grab it from KU or Amazon!
I first fell in love with Rafferty, Daisy and Callahan in the fall when I beta read this book for Anna. I love this series dearly and was honoured to read it early. I was also excited to revisit them as an arc reader! I loved seeing the changes/updates made to make this the best version possible! Each book in this series just gets better and better, and while I’m sad the series is over, I’m excited to revisit Wildes and my favourite characters!
READ IF YOU LIKE:
💛 single dad
💛 second chance
💛 childhood friends to lovers
💛 slow burn (with does wide open 🔥🔥🔥)
💛 florist x firefighter
💛 dual timeline & dual POV
💛 “it’s always been you”
💛 small town
💛 queer rep
💛 BIPOC rep
💛 mental health rep
💛 positive therapy rep
Anna has such a talent weaving the perfect blend of heartfelt moments, humour, touching on important topics, spicy moments and found family. This book touches on PCOS, migraines, anxiety and body image issues. Anna reslly makes you feel for these characters, because they are real issues people have to deal with and advocate for and she writes them in a very relatable way.
While this book is indeed a slow burn, it’s kind of necessary with what Daisy and Raff have gone through in their lives. But when the slow burn ends? Boy do things heat up!!🔥🔥🔥
Callahan is the unsung hero of this story- with such an amazing plot twist that I did not see coming!! Callahan is the best tho, and I loved seeing Raff being the best father to him, and seeing Daisy and Callahan grow closer.
I also loved seeing the friends group and previous book couples make appearances in this one! They are all so supportive of one another and I loved seeing the how safe and loved everyone feels with each other.
Congrats Anna on a completed six book series!!! I am a forever fan!!
“ Sit under the stars with me.”
Two quotes. Two decades apart. One man named Rafferty Ames. But they manage to have an impact on Daisy Heroux ❤️
ALMOST ALWAYS in the final book in @annawriteshere Love in the Wildes series (congrats on a completed series!!) and is OUT NOW! Grab it from KU or Amazon!
I first fell in love with Rafferty, Daisy and Callahan in the fall when I beta read this book for Anna. I love this series dearly and was honoured to read it early. I was also excited to revisit them as an arc reader! I loved seeing the changes/updates made to make this the best version possible! Each book in this series just gets better and better, and while I’m sad the series is over, I’m excited to revisit Wildes and my favourite characters!
READ IF YOU LIKE:
💛 single dad
💛 second chance
💛 childhood friends to lovers
💛 slow burn (with does wide open 🔥🔥🔥)
💛 florist x firefighter
💛 dual timeline & dual POV
💛 “it’s always been you”
💛 small town
💛 queer rep
💛 BIPOC rep
💛 mental health rep
💛 positive therapy rep
Anna has such a talent weaving the perfect blend of heartfelt moments, humour, touching on important topics, spicy moments and found family. This book touches on PCOS, migraines, anxiety and body image issues. Anna reslly makes you feel for these characters, because they are real issues people have to deal with and advocate for and she writes them in a very relatable way.
While this book is indeed a slow burn, it’s kind of necessary with what Daisy and Raff have gone through in their lives. But when the slow burn ends? Boy do things heat up!!🔥🔥🔥
Callahan is the unsung hero of this story- with such an amazing plot twist that I did not see coming!! Callahan is the best tho, and I loved seeing Raff being the best father to him, and seeing Daisy and Callahan grow closer.
I also loved seeing the friends group and previous book couples make appearances in this one! They are all so supportive of one another and I loved seeing the how safe and loved everyone feels with each other.
Congrats Anna on a completed six book series!!! I am a forever fan!!
February 23, 2025
This book is like the warmest hug from your favorite person ❤️
Anna's writing is incredible and she creates the most loving and loveable characters who are so rich and unique in their own way.
Daisy and Rafferty were perfect together, and their story was so beautiful and emotional. I cried at how much love and support there was in this book, from the two estranged best friends finding their way back to each other, to the incredible found family in Wildes. And that plot twist! I didn't see it coming and I was bawling when everything clicked into place. Sweet sweet Callahan, you are the best and such a gem 🥹
I feel like I should have plenty more to say about this book but words are failing me. There are so many little details that are fantastic. I loved the letters that Rafferty wrote during their time apart, the fact that Daisy's love for flowers started with him and Nonna, how she and Cal loved each other instantly, "sit under the stars with me?" 😭
This was another incredible story by Anna and a perfect conclusion to the series!
𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯.
Anna's writing is incredible and she creates the most loving and loveable characters who are so rich and unique in their own way.
Daisy and Rafferty were perfect together, and their story was so beautiful and emotional. I cried at how much love and support there was in this book, from the two estranged best friends finding their way back to each other, to the incredible found family in Wildes. And that plot twist! I didn't see it coming and I was bawling when everything clicked into place. Sweet sweet Callahan, you are the best and such a gem 🥹
I feel like I should have plenty more to say about this book but words are failing me. There are so many little details that are fantastic. I loved the letters that Rafferty wrote during their time apart, the fact that Daisy's love for flowers started with him and Nonna, how she and Cal loved each other instantly, "sit under the stars with me?" 😭
This was another incredible story by Anna and a perfect conclusion to the series!
𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯.
March 3, 2025
Thank you so much, Anna for the arc of Almost Always, out now!
This truly was such a beautiful read. Daisy and Rafferty cherished each other so much and they continued to hold one another to such a high standard. They spoke softly to each other and about each other, they always looked for the other, and after 20 years of not seeing each other, the need and longing increased by a tenfold. I will admit there were times I had to take a pause because it felt too real. I think Anna portrayed such with such realism. One can't heal from things randomly, and sometimes no matter how many years it's been, you still haven't completely healed. Daisy was a great portrayal of such. They have tattoos for each other which omg had me cryinggg.
I can not wait to go back and read the rest of Anna's work, because this was my first one and it truly was incredible! <3
"There was something so comforting about looking at a person who made you feel so many things without even realizing it."
- Childhood Friends to Lovers
- Second Chance
- Dual Timeline
- It's Always Been You
- Florist FMC x Firefighter MMC
- She Falls First, He Falls Harder
- Slow Burn
- Single Dad
- Tattoos for each other
This truly was such a beautiful read. Daisy and Rafferty cherished each other so much and they continued to hold one another to such a high standard. They spoke softly to each other and about each other, they always looked for the other, and after 20 years of not seeing each other, the need and longing increased by a tenfold. I will admit there were times I had to take a pause because it felt too real. I think Anna portrayed such with such realism. One can't heal from things randomly, and sometimes no matter how many years it's been, you still haven't completely healed. Daisy was a great portrayal of such. They have tattoos for each other which omg had me cryinggg.
I can not wait to go back and read the rest of Anna's work, because this was my first one and it truly was incredible! <3
"There was something so comforting about looking at a person who made you feel so many things without even realizing it."
- Childhood Friends to Lovers
- Second Chance
- Dual Timeline
- It's Always Been You
- Florist FMC x Firefighter MMC
- She Falls First, He Falls Harder
- Slow Burn
- Single Dad
- Tattoos for each other
March 2, 2025
“Sit under the stars with me.”
🌼Slow Burn
🌼Firefighter & Florist
🌼Small town
🌼Second Chance
🌼Single Dad
🌼Childhood friends to lovers
This book is part of the “Love in the Wildes” series but can be read as a standalone. Although, I can promise you will want to read them all!
The story just pulled on my heart strings! I absolutely loved every second on it!
Daisy and Rafferty love story was so beautiful and emotional. So many things in their lives had changed since they had last seen each other. Daisy had gotten married and divorced, and opened her own flower shop. Rafferty had also gotten divorced and is raising his son alone. Both were dealing with personal and health issues in between. But then fate found a way to bring them back to each other when they needed it the most.
The way they listened and supported each other was so beautiful. Seeing all the puzzle pieces fall back into place after all those years apart, had me swooning and emotional all at the same time!
This story does mention some tough topics, and is an open-door romance.
Thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of your ARC team!
🌼Slow Burn
🌼Firefighter & Florist
🌼Small town
🌼Second Chance
🌼Single Dad
🌼Childhood friends to lovers
This book is part of the “Love in the Wildes” series but can be read as a standalone. Although, I can promise you will want to read them all!
The story just pulled on my heart strings! I absolutely loved every second on it!
Daisy and Rafferty love story was so beautiful and emotional. So many things in their lives had changed since they had last seen each other. Daisy had gotten married and divorced, and opened her own flower shop. Rafferty had also gotten divorced and is raising his son alone. Both were dealing with personal and health issues in between. But then fate found a way to bring them back to each other when they needed it the most.
The way they listened and supported each other was so beautiful. Seeing all the puzzle pieces fall back into place after all those years apart, had me swooning and emotional all at the same time!
This story does mention some tough topics, and is an open-door romance.
Thank you so much for allowing me to be a part of your ARC team!
March 17, 2025
Thank you so much, Anna, for the arc of Almost Always, which is out now!
“Almost Always” is the sixth book in the Love in Wildes series, but don’t worry—you can absolutely read it as a standalone! This heartfelt small-town romance follows Daisy, a florist, and Rafferty, a landscaper and volunteer firefighter, who were childhood best friends before losing touch. Twenty years later, fate reunites them in a coffee shop in Wildes, and their second-chance love story unfolds.
I loved how raw and mature this romance felt. Anna P. beautifully weaves in themes of mental health, body image struggles, and PCOS, making the story even more impactful. Rafferty as a single dad to his nine-year-old son, Cal, completely melted my heart, and don’t even get me started on Boots (the dog) adding all the extra warmth! The side characters and found family dynamic were chef’s kiss, and the way this story explored the messy yet beautiful reality of love had me smiling the entire time.
If you love emotional, tender, small-town romances with real characters and a second-chance love that feels earned, this one’s for you. This definitely won’t be my last book from Anna P.!
“Almost Always” is the sixth book in the Love in Wildes series, but don’t worry—you can absolutely read it as a standalone! This heartfelt small-town romance follows Daisy, a florist, and Rafferty, a landscaper and volunteer firefighter, who were childhood best friends before losing touch. Twenty years later, fate reunites them in a coffee shop in Wildes, and their second-chance love story unfolds.
I loved how raw and mature this romance felt. Anna P. beautifully weaves in themes of mental health, body image struggles, and PCOS, making the story even more impactful. Rafferty as a single dad to his nine-year-old son, Cal, completely melted my heart, and don’t even get me started on Boots (the dog) adding all the extra warmth! The side characters and found family dynamic were chef’s kiss, and the way this story explored the messy yet beautiful reality of love had me smiling the entire time.
If you love emotional, tender, small-town romances with real characters and a second-chance love that feels earned, this one’s for you. This definitely won’t be my last book from Anna P.!
February 4, 2025
Perfect end to a wonderful series for the Wildes found family. Easily my favorite of the series!!
The mental health rep and issues were handled with care and realistically portrayed - make sure to read trigger warnings!! Also this is a spicy open door romance.
Reading their love and feeling it felt as easy and simple as falling asleep warm and cozy. There was a beautiful flow to it without any conflict for conflicts sake. And Cal, the kiddo, what a cutieeee. Loved Raff and Daze and how they show up for each other, love and care for each other!
The balance between present day and their past was perfect and Raff’s letters 🤌🏽😩🫶🏽. It was all very meant-to-be.
Tropes you’ll find :
- it’s always been you
- second chance
- single dad
- found family
- no 3rd act breakup
Love the author and her work in this series and excited for her new cricket romance series!!
The mental health rep and issues were handled with care and realistically portrayed - make sure to read trigger warnings!! Also this is a spicy open door romance.
Reading their love and feeling it felt as easy and simple as falling asleep warm and cozy. There was a beautiful flow to it without any conflict for conflicts sake. And Cal, the kiddo, what a cutieeee. Loved Raff and Daze and how they show up for each other, love and care for each other!
The balance between present day and their past was perfect and Raff’s letters 🤌🏽😩🫶🏽. It was all very meant-to-be.
Tropes you’ll find :
- it’s always been you
- second chance
- single dad
- found family
- no 3rd act breakup
Love the author and her work in this series and excited for her new cricket romance series!!
February 9, 2025
This was my first read by Anna P., but will certainly not be my last! I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I have not read any of the other books in the series, and although there were lots of cameos from characters that had been previously introduced, this book can definitely be read as a stand alone.
Daisy and Rafferty's 20-year relationship was heartfelt and genuine, which was one of my favorite parts of the story. So often in this genre, characters and storylines can feel too "perfect," and though there were elements of that (a quaint small town, the perfect well-rounded group of girlfriends) I felt like the central relationship in the story was very three-dimensional. I especially loved seeing Daisy and Callahan's connection grow throughout the book.
Anna P. is not afraid to tackle difficult topics and does so in such a considerate and thoughtful way. I recommend checking the content warnings before reading! Overall, this book was a great balance between fun and emotional/raw and a very enjoyable read.
Daisy and Rafferty's 20-year relationship was heartfelt and genuine, which was one of my favorite parts of the story. So often in this genre, characters and storylines can feel too "perfect," and though there were elements of that (a quaint small town, the perfect well-rounded group of girlfriends) I felt like the central relationship in the story was very three-dimensional. I especially loved seeing Daisy and Callahan's connection grow throughout the book.
Anna P. is not afraid to tackle difficult topics and does so in such a considerate and thoughtful way. I recommend checking the content warnings before reading! Overall, this book was a great balance between fun and emotional/raw and a very enjoyable read.
February 25, 2025
Almost Always by Anna P. is the sixth installment in the Love in Wildes series, which follows various residents of Wildes as they build friendships and find love. While this book is a part of the series it can be read as a standalone. From the moment I met Daisy and Rafferty, I was hooked. Childhood best friends turned near-strangers, they reunite years later in the charming town of Wildes, Delaware. The chemistry between them? Off the charts. But it’s not just about romance, it’s about second chances, self-discovery, and the messy, beautiful reality of love. I loved Rafferty he is the kind of single dad that makes your heart melt—thoughtful, loving, and just a little bit broken. This was my first glimpse at Anna’s writing but I can’t wait to go back and discover more stories from this series.
April 16, 2025
t r o p e s :
⠀
🪴childhood friends to lovers
🪴she fell first, he falls harder
🪴 florist X firefighter
🪴 single dad
🪴 dual timeline
🪴 it's always been you
🪴 slow burn
🪴 second chance
I want to thank @annawriteshere for the ARC .
I really enjoyed this one, one of my fav tropes is single dad and I love Daisy relationship with Callahan! That kid is a sweetheart
Also Raff's work as a firefighter is so awesome, loved it.
Also Boots?? I loved it😍
The spice was just enough for me actually.
One of the things I loved the most is the fact that Call's friend is referred as "they" and not simply "boy/girl" but also the health aspect, the mental health representations - PCOD/
PCOS, migraines, anxiety and body image issues. As someone who suffers with PCOS and Verneuil I really love when books have reps that we can connect to.
⠀
🪴childhood friends to lovers
🪴she fell first, he falls harder
🪴 florist X firefighter
🪴 single dad
🪴 dual timeline
🪴 it's always been you
🪴 slow burn
🪴 second chance
I want to thank @annawriteshere for the ARC .
I really enjoyed this one, one of my fav tropes is single dad and I love Daisy relationship with Callahan! That kid is a sweetheart
Also Raff's work as a firefighter is so awesome, loved it.
Also Boots?? I loved it😍
The spice was just enough for me actually.
One of the things I loved the most is the fact that Call's friend is referred as "they" and not simply "boy/girl" but also the health aspect, the mental health representations - PCOD/
PCOS, migraines, anxiety and body image issues. As someone who suffers with PCOS and Verneuil I really love when books have reps that we can connect to.
February 7, 2025
3.5⭐️
First and foremost… Rafferty owes Cal some dollars for cursing while he was around. Wish that continued throughout the story. I absolutely loved Cal he was 100% my favorite character! He is that fun and cool kid you’d want to be around.
Secondly, this book is a prime example of why I don’t DNF books. This love story was an extremely slow burn,I mean I did not want to stick in there. I wanted them to f*ck and be together already…of course it eventually happened though lol. The last few chapters was the best part of the book!!! The body dissatisfaction Daisy was going through had me tearing up a little because I swear i’m going through that right now! I guess I know what I need to do 🙊😉Overall, it’s a slow cute story probably the most realistic type of love story.
First and foremost… Rafferty owes Cal some dollars for cursing while he was around. Wish that continued throughout the story. I absolutely loved Cal he was 100% my favorite character! He is that fun and cool kid you’d want to be around.
Secondly, this book is a prime example of why I don’t DNF books. This love story was an extremely slow burn,I mean I did not want to stick in there. I wanted them to f*ck and be together already…of course it eventually happened though lol. The last few chapters was the best part of the book!!! The body dissatisfaction Daisy was going through had me tearing up a little because I swear i’m going through that right now! I guess I know what I need to do 🙊😉Overall, it’s a slow cute story probably the most realistic type of love story.
February 4, 2025
All opinions are my own.
I rounded this up to four stars because I think the author did such a good job handling some of the difficult material in the book (chronic illnesses and body image issues are two). However, at times I was a little confused with the all of the friends- they just seemed to blend together. It also started a bit slow for my taste.
That being said, this was a super, super sweet romance with unexpected details that made the story very real. Rafferty might actually be close to the perfect man.
Tropes below (if you consider those spoilers, avoid scrolling)
Second chance
Dual pov
Dual timeline
It was always you
I rounded this up to four stars because I think the author did such a good job handling some of the difficult material in the book (chronic illnesses and body image issues are two). However, at times I was a little confused with the all of the friends- they just seemed to blend together. It also started a bit slow for my taste.
That being said, this was a super, super sweet romance with unexpected details that made the story very real. Rafferty might actually be close to the perfect man.
Tropes below (if you consider those spoilers, avoid scrolling)
Second chance
Dual pov
Dual timeline
It was always you
February 24, 2025
AND LOVE IN WILDES IS COMPLETE 😭 I'm not crying, you are!!
Almost Always was the last instalment in a series which I've been in love with from the start.
So did Anna leave us with a nice, happy-go-lucky final read? Well yes, obviously, but she also left us with a SLOW BURN ANGSTY treat! Yes that's right, she hit us with a slow burn, even though she knows how I feel about them!
But it pays offffffff - the steam is *chef kiss* - hotter than some of the fictional fires Rafferty is putting out, did I mention he's a fireman? *preens*
Love love loved it! And we got to see our faves from the series again which was a wonderful way to say goodbye...sob!
Almost Always was the last instalment in a series which I've been in love with from the start.
So did Anna leave us with a nice, happy-go-lucky final read? Well yes, obviously, but she also left us with a SLOW BURN ANGSTY treat! Yes that's right, she hit us with a slow burn, even though she knows how I feel about them!
But it pays offffffff - the steam is *chef kiss* - hotter than some of the fictional fires Rafferty is putting out, did I mention he's a fireman? *preens*
Love love loved it! And we got to see our faves from the series again which was a wonderful way to say goodbye...sob!
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