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Oak Ridge, #2
Moonlight & Matrimony: A Small Town Best Friend's Brother Romance
Ivy
I spent years living in fear, trapped in an abusive marriage, until I finally found the courage to escape with my 3-year-old daughter. What I thought would be a fresh start, quickly turned into a nightmare. When a terrifying encounter with my ex-husband brings my grumpy neighbor to my doorstep, I soon discover he’s not just my best friend’s brother — he's my lifeline, and he’s offering to marry me to keep us safe. As the lines start to blur, I begin to wonder if I’m in over my head. Falling for Luca feels dangerous. How can I keep us safe without losing my heart in the process?
Luca
Moving to Oak Ridge is supposed to be a fresh start, and a chance to reconcile with my sister. I didn’t expect to find myself wrapped around the finger of a charming little girl and my sister’s best friend. But Ivy and Rylin are in trouble, and I can’t stand by and watch it happen. Marriage isn’t in the cards for me, until it’s the only thing I can think of to keep them both safe. As I come to grips my own complicated history, I try to keep my heart guarded, but every day with Ivy and Rylin draws me in deeper. Can I let myself fall for them when my past is filled with loss? Or will fear, or something darker, drive us apart before we even begin?
Content This title contains sensitive content as well as sexually explicit material. Please check trigger warnings.
I spent years living in fear, trapped in an abusive marriage, until I finally found the courage to escape with my 3-year-old daughter. What I thought would be a fresh start, quickly turned into a nightmare. When a terrifying encounter with my ex-husband brings my grumpy neighbor to my doorstep, I soon discover he’s not just my best friend’s brother — he's my lifeline, and he’s offering to marry me to keep us safe. As the lines start to blur, I begin to wonder if I’m in over my head. Falling for Luca feels dangerous. How can I keep us safe without losing my heart in the process?
Luca
Moving to Oak Ridge is supposed to be a fresh start, and a chance to reconcile with my sister. I didn’t expect to find myself wrapped around the finger of a charming little girl and my sister’s best friend. But Ivy and Rylin are in trouble, and I can’t stand by and watch it happen. Marriage isn’t in the cards for me, until it’s the only thing I can think of to keep them both safe. As I come to grips my own complicated history, I try to keep my heart guarded, but every day with Ivy and Rylin draws me in deeper. Can I let myself fall for them when my past is filled with loss? Or will fear, or something darker, drive us apart before we even begin?
Content This title contains sensitive content as well as sexually explicit material. Please check trigger warnings.
395 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 23, 2025
54 people are currently reading
424 people want to read
About the author
Willa Kay
10 books129 followersAuthor of heartwarming small town contemporary romance, Willa is a voracious reader turned writer living in Kentucky. Originally from Canada, she's a photographer by day, and a mom of two, married to her partner for 16 years. Willa's books blend small town swoon with delicious spice, and complex characters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
dnf
August 10, 20257% and this lady was more h*rny than the cheaters and manwh*res i read. I can’t.
“I raise my fist to knock, but before it can make contact, a tall, dark-haired man appears where the door used to be. His piercing brown eyes skate over my body, and a not entirely unpleasant chill crawls up my spine. His full lips are outlined by a neatly cropped beard I’d love to feel between my thighs. Where the hell did that thought come from?” -1% when she’s stomping across the yard to tell him to lower the music at 8AM leaving her sleeping child alone but that’s okay because she has the baby monitor??? Hello? that’s incredibly NOT OKAY.
“In my defense, it’s been a long, long, long, long, looooooong time since I’ve had my guts rearranged. I’ve resorted to one-handed reading with a few battery-operated boyfriends to get the job done, but now I’m feeling like they might be woefully inadequate compared to the hunk of a man currently petting my dog. He could pet something else.” -this was at 4% after her ex just came and she’s afraid of him? This was also the second time meeting the mmc.
“He laughs at my possessiveness and the sound goes straight to my pussy.” -7% after just getting sexually harassed by some random. Had to call it. I couldn’t take it. Every other word from the fmc was about how wet she was from him.
“I raise my fist to knock, but before it can make contact, a tall, dark-haired man appears where the door used to be. His piercing brown eyes skate over my body, and a not entirely unpleasant chill crawls up my spine. His full lips are outlined by a neatly cropped beard I’d love to feel between my thighs. Where the hell did that thought come from?” -1% when she’s stomping across the yard to tell him to lower the music at 8AM leaving her sleeping child alone but that’s okay because she has the baby monitor??? Hello? that’s incredibly NOT OKAY.
“In my defense, it’s been a long, long, long, long, looooooong time since I’ve had my guts rearranged. I’ve resorted to one-handed reading with a few battery-operated boyfriends to get the job done, but now I’m feeling like they might be woefully inadequate compared to the hunk of a man currently petting my dog. He could pet something else.” -this was at 4% after her ex just came and she’s afraid of him? This was also the second time meeting the mmc.
“He laughs at my possessiveness and the sound goes straight to my pussy.” -7% after just getting sexually harassed by some random. Had to call it. I couldn’t take it. Every other word from the fmc was about how wet she was from him.
April 8, 2025
3.5
TW: domestic violence (not between MCs), verbal abuse, stalking, harassment, attempted murder, murder, death, car accident (on page), PTSD, alcohol consumption, strained parental relationships, pregnancy, gaslighting (not MCs), cheating (not MCs), death of loved ones, panic attack, misogyny/sexism, physical assault/violence, slut shaming, arson, gun violence, blood, grief/loss,
Tropes: small town, best friend's brother, who did this to you, single parent, protective possessive, grey sweatpants, fuck it, good girl, sex toys, age gap (10 years), hand necklace, I see the way they look at you,
Rep: mid-size MC, enby SC (Morgan, they/them),
Nicknames: sweetheart, wife, trouble,
TW: domestic violence (not between MCs), verbal abuse, stalking, harassment, attempted murder, murder, death, car accident (on page), PTSD, alcohol consumption, strained parental relationships, pregnancy, gaslighting (not MCs), cheating (not MCs), death of loved ones, panic attack, misogyny/sexism, physical assault/violence, slut shaming, arson, gun violence, blood, grief/loss,
Tropes: small town, best friend's brother, who did this to you, single parent, protective possessive, grey sweatpants, fuck it, good girl, sex toys, age gap (10 years), hand necklace, I see the way they look at you,
Rep: mid-size MC, enby SC (Morgan, they/them),
Nicknames: sweetheart, wife, trouble,
January 23, 2025
*ARC Reader*
Willa Kay has done it again. This time, a bit differently.
I’m not going to lie, I loved being back in Oak Ridge. But please have your tissues ready. This one broke my heart and put it back together over and over. It was exactly the kind of book I was looking for.
It seems like every man Willa writes just sets the bar higher and higher. I was grinning, laughing, crying and 🥹🥹 (awe-ing) the entire book.
You still get bits and pieces of the lovable gang, but this one really focuses on Luca and Ivy. With a sprinkle of Paige and Luca and their sibling relationship.
This was a great read and took me a little over 8 hours to read (much of that being in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down). If you liked Heartstrings and Horizons then you’ll LOVE Moonlight and Matrimony
The way Willa handles some of the more serious/darker themes feels so authentic. Describing a character who is strong yet vulnerable is hard to do and she does is flawlessly.
Willa Kay has done it again. This time, a bit differently.
I’m not going to lie, I loved being back in Oak Ridge. But please have your tissues ready. This one broke my heart and put it back together over and over. It was exactly the kind of book I was looking for.
It seems like every man Willa writes just sets the bar higher and higher. I was grinning, laughing, crying and 🥹🥹 (awe-ing) the entire book.
You still get bits and pieces of the lovable gang, but this one really focuses on Luca and Ivy. With a sprinkle of Paige and Luca and their sibling relationship.
This was a great read and took me a little over 8 hours to read (much of that being in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down). If you liked Heartstrings and Horizons then you’ll LOVE Moonlight and Matrimony
The way Willa handles some of the more serious/darker themes feels so authentic. Describing a character who is strong yet vulnerable is hard to do and she does is flawlessly.
January 7, 2025
My favorite in the series so far.
Ivy and Luca have both been through a lot and have some skeletons in their closet, but the way they come together to fight for each other and their happiness in the end is astounding.
Ivy is leaving a DV situation and has a lot of baggage to carry. She’s also a single mom, to 4 year old Rylin. She tries her hardest to guard her heart, but it turns out to be futile. She is one the strongest FMC’s ever. Her strength, determination and love for her daughter are what keeps her going, until Luca, who breaks down all her walls and shows her that she doesn’t have to carry the burden alone.
Luca, sweet sweet Luca. After his ex dumped him on their anniversary after he proposed to her, hes sworn off falling in love. But when the spitfire girl next door comes banging on his door, all bets are off. He falls for his little sisters best friend despite all his walls and his denial. He would do anything for Ivy and Rylin.
I loved being back in Oak Ridge, Kentucky. I think my heart will always love this place, even if it’s not real.
Ivy and Luca have both been through a lot and have some skeletons in their closet, but the way they come together to fight for each other and their happiness in the end is astounding.
Ivy is leaving a DV situation and has a lot of baggage to carry. She’s also a single mom, to 4 year old Rylin. She tries her hardest to guard her heart, but it turns out to be futile. She is one the strongest FMC’s ever. Her strength, determination and love for her daughter are what keeps her going, until Luca, who breaks down all her walls and shows her that she doesn’t have to carry the burden alone.
Luca, sweet sweet Luca. After his ex dumped him on their anniversary after he proposed to her, hes sworn off falling in love. But when the spitfire girl next door comes banging on his door, all bets are off. He falls for his little sisters best friend despite all his walls and his denial. He would do anything for Ivy and Rylin.
I loved being back in Oak Ridge, Kentucky. I think my heart will always love this place, even if it’s not real.
December 29, 2024
ARC Review: Moonlight & Matrimony by Willa Kay
"Moonlight & Matrimony," the second book in the Oak Ridge series by Willa Kay, is a heartwarming and captivating story.
After years of enduring an abusive marriage, Ivy finally leaves her husband to create a safer, brighter future for her young daughter, Rylin. Moving to a secure neighborhood, she hopes to rebuild her life. However, her ex-husband continues to disrupt her newfound peace. When another troubling incident arises, Ivy’s new neighbor, Luca, steps in with a spontaneous lie: he claims they’re engaged. What starts as a simple ruse quickly escalates into a fake marriage as her ex’s interference grows unbearable.
As Ivy and Luca spend more time together, their connection deepens. The attraction between them is undeniable, and Luca’s bond with Rylin only strengthens their relationship. Yet, both carry emotional scars from their pasts. The question remains: can they overcome their fears and find happiness together?
This is a beautiful story featuring beloved romance tropes: best friend’s brother, fake marriage, single parent, and forced proximity. The plot strikes a perfect balance between heartfelt romance and compelling drama. The family dynamics, particularly the interactions between Rylin and Luca, bring warmth and charm to the narrative.
The characters are wonderfully crafted—kind, loving, and relatable. Ivy alternates between fierce “mama bear” moments and vulnerability, while Luca embodies the role of a protective and dependable partner. Their chemistry sizzles, with intimate scenes adding a touch of spice to the story.
My favorite moment? The heartfelt proposal at the end—it was simply perfect.
If you’re looking for a moving, romantic tale filled with love, healing, and second chances, Moonlight & Matrimony is the perfect pick.
"Moonlight & Matrimony," the second book in the Oak Ridge series by Willa Kay, is a heartwarming and captivating story.
After years of enduring an abusive marriage, Ivy finally leaves her husband to create a safer, brighter future for her young daughter, Rylin. Moving to a secure neighborhood, she hopes to rebuild her life. However, her ex-husband continues to disrupt her newfound peace. When another troubling incident arises, Ivy’s new neighbor, Luca, steps in with a spontaneous lie: he claims they’re engaged. What starts as a simple ruse quickly escalates into a fake marriage as her ex’s interference grows unbearable.
As Ivy and Luca spend more time together, their connection deepens. The attraction between them is undeniable, and Luca’s bond with Rylin only strengthens their relationship. Yet, both carry emotional scars from their pasts. The question remains: can they overcome their fears and find happiness together?
This is a beautiful story featuring beloved romance tropes: best friend’s brother, fake marriage, single parent, and forced proximity. The plot strikes a perfect balance between heartfelt romance and compelling drama. The family dynamics, particularly the interactions between Rylin and Luca, bring warmth and charm to the narrative.
The characters are wonderfully crafted—kind, loving, and relatable. Ivy alternates between fierce “mama bear” moments and vulnerability, while Luca embodies the role of a protective and dependable partner. Their chemistry sizzles, with intimate scenes adding a touch of spice to the story.
My favorite moment? The heartfelt proposal at the end—it was simply perfect.
If you’re looking for a moving, romantic tale filled with love, healing, and second chances, Moonlight & Matrimony is the perfect pick.
January 17, 2025
ARC Review
Thank you to Will Kay for the ARC!
Moonlight & Matrimony is the second book in the Oak Ridge series and is the story of Ivy and Luca. Ivy is a single mom who flees her abusive husband and tries to start a new life for her and her daughter, Rylin, in town. They move into an old Victorian home and Ivy meets her new neighbor, Luca, who also happens to be incredibly hot and the brother of her friend, Paige.
Austin, Ivy's ex-husband (well soon to be) is relentless and continues to show up at their new home, threatening Ivy and her daughter. After a couple of incidents with Austin, including one scary encounter, Luca steps in and tells Austin Ivy and him are together and engaged to try to protect her.
Luca and Ivy start spending a lot of time together and their is a lot of chemistry and tension between them but they both try to ignore it and focus on taking care of themselves as they are both working through difficult parts of their lives. Luca is also smitten with Rylin and Rylan loves Mr. Luca. Their relationship is adorable and Luca is a natural with her.
Despite how hard they try, Luca and Ivy cannot stay from each other. They are magnetic forces being drawn to each other. Their relationship is romantic but they also quickly become each other's best friend, confidant, and support system. Their relationship is a beautiful, tension filled, slow burn romance novels are made of.
Trigger Warning: This book is a wonderful story but does include vivid descriptions of domestic violence and an abusive relationship and may not be easy for some to read.
Tropes:
Slow Burn
Single Mom x Best friend’s brother
Found family
Age gap
Marriage of Convenience
hurt/comfort
Explicit open door spice
Thank you to Will Kay for the ARC!
Moonlight & Matrimony is the second book in the Oak Ridge series and is the story of Ivy and Luca. Ivy is a single mom who flees her abusive husband and tries to start a new life for her and her daughter, Rylin, in town. They move into an old Victorian home and Ivy meets her new neighbor, Luca, who also happens to be incredibly hot and the brother of her friend, Paige.
Austin, Ivy's ex-husband (well soon to be) is relentless and continues to show up at their new home, threatening Ivy and her daughter. After a couple of incidents with Austin, including one scary encounter, Luca steps in and tells Austin Ivy and him are together and engaged to try to protect her.
Luca and Ivy start spending a lot of time together and their is a lot of chemistry and tension between them but they both try to ignore it and focus on taking care of themselves as they are both working through difficult parts of their lives. Luca is also smitten with Rylin and Rylan loves Mr. Luca. Their relationship is adorable and Luca is a natural with her.
Despite how hard they try, Luca and Ivy cannot stay from each other. They are magnetic forces being drawn to each other. Their relationship is romantic but they also quickly become each other's best friend, confidant, and support system. Their relationship is a beautiful, tension filled, slow burn romance novels are made of.
Trigger Warning: This book is a wonderful story but does include vivid descriptions of domestic violence and an abusive relationship and may not be easy for some to read.
Tropes:
Slow Burn
Single Mom x Best friend’s brother
Found family
Age gap
Marriage of Convenience
hurt/comfort
Explicit open door spice
February 12, 2025
When life gives you lemons... Single mom meets grumpy neighbor, aka her BFF's brother! Sounds like a recipe for disaster... or is it a dream come true? Ivy is caught off guard when Luca storms into her home and announces she's his fiancé, all in an effort to protect her from her violent ex-husband. But it’s all for appearances, right?
Haunted by the fear of getting hurt again and putting her 3-year-old daughter, Rylin, in harm's way, Ivy is hesitant to love. But Luca's sincerity and kindness are chipping away at her defenses, and his offer of marriage might just be the safe haven they're looking for. Following a shocking rejection to his proposal to his long-time girlfriend, Luca has come to the realization that marriage is no longer an option for him. His main concern is the safety of Ivy and Rylin, but it's driven by a sense of duty, not genuine devotion. It's all just an act, right? Luca and Ivy have both sworn off love, but can they resist fate?
I was completely swept up in the emotional rollercoaster that was Ivy and Luca's pretend relationship. Add in all the precious moments with little Rylin, and I was a goner.
A huge thank you to Willa Kay for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
Haunted by the fear of getting hurt again and putting her 3-year-old daughter, Rylin, in harm's way, Ivy is hesitant to love. But Luca's sincerity and kindness are chipping away at her defenses, and his offer of marriage might just be the safe haven they're looking for. Following a shocking rejection to his proposal to his long-time girlfriend, Luca has come to the realization that marriage is no longer an option for him. His main concern is the safety of Ivy and Rylin, but it's driven by a sense of duty, not genuine devotion. It's all just an act, right? Luca and Ivy have both sworn off love, but can they resist fate?
I was completely swept up in the emotional rollercoaster that was Ivy and Luca's pretend relationship. Add in all the precious moments with little Rylin, and I was a goner.
A huge thank you to Willa Kay for the digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion and review.
January 5, 2025
ARC Review
Moonlight & Matrimony is the second book in the Oak Ridge Series and so far one of my favorite reads. Please be aware of the Trigger Warnings, this book does touch on the topic of DV and other heavy themes.
I felt a wide range of emotions while reading this book from sadness, anger for what the characters were going through, to happiness with each win they did have.
Ivy, along with her young daughter, mangos to escape her DV situation with her ex- husband. While she was able to leave him, she unfortunately must still share custody of their young daughter all while constantly being harassed and threatened by him. Luca needed a change after he was just going through the motions after a bad break up and a blow up with his parents. He moves to the small town of Oak Ridge to redirect his life but to also live closer and repair his relationship with his younger sister Paige.
Ivy and Luca meet as neighbors and its not the best first impressions. They soon realize their connection to each other through Paige and with a threat from his sister Luca realizes he could be less of a grump.
He is easily won over by Ivy’s daughter Rylin and his first time meeting her leads him into a fake relationship situation in order to protect Ivy and Rylin from Ivy’s ex.
While both Ivy and Luca each have their own set of personal issues, they both learn to heal themselves and grow into better versions of themselves through their fake marriage. I laughed, I most definitely cried, and I most definitely blushed while reading the spice.
This story had all of my favorite tropes:
- Best friends brother
- Fake dating
- Marriage of convenience
- Open door spice
- HEA
Im seriously convinced that there isn’t a book written by Willa that I won’t love.
Moonlight & Matrimony is the second book in the Oak Ridge Series and so far one of my favorite reads. Please be aware of the Trigger Warnings, this book does touch on the topic of DV and other heavy themes.
I felt a wide range of emotions while reading this book from sadness, anger for what the characters were going through, to happiness with each win they did have.
Ivy, along with her young daughter, mangos to escape her DV situation with her ex- husband. While she was able to leave him, she unfortunately must still share custody of their young daughter all while constantly being harassed and threatened by him. Luca needed a change after he was just going through the motions after a bad break up and a blow up with his parents. He moves to the small town of Oak Ridge to redirect his life but to also live closer and repair his relationship with his younger sister Paige.
Ivy and Luca meet as neighbors and its not the best first impressions. They soon realize their connection to each other through Paige and with a threat from his sister Luca realizes he could be less of a grump.
He is easily won over by Ivy’s daughter Rylin and his first time meeting her leads him into a fake relationship situation in order to protect Ivy and Rylin from Ivy’s ex.
While both Ivy and Luca each have their own set of personal issues, they both learn to heal themselves and grow into better versions of themselves through their fake marriage. I laughed, I most definitely cried, and I most definitely blushed while reading the spice.
This story had all of my favorite tropes:
- Best friends brother
- Fake dating
- Marriage of convenience
- Open door spice
- HEA
Im seriously convinced that there isn’t a book written by Willa that I won’t love.
August 12, 2025
This book is for the single mothers or anyone women in general who have been in a domestic violence situation. Ivy is a single mother trying to get away from her ex husband Austin and wants nothing but the best for her babygirl Rylin. She meets Luca who is Paige's brother (she's from the first book). Everyone could feel the chemistry between Luca and Ivy and honestly with the way Willa describes it, as a reader you can feel it too! The way Luca just accepts Rylin as his own is so amazing to read. Luca is the ideal man that every women would love to have their life.
Just when you think Ivy and Luca are going to be happy together here comes the bitter , no good for nothing baby daddy Austin. He really tries everything he can to make Ivy's life miserable and get custody of his daughter. Although i wont say much that way you can read it.
This book is full of laughter , sad moments and definitely some spicy moments. Make sure to read the first book in the series Heartstrings & Horizons so there are no spoilers from the first book.
Just when you think Ivy and Luca are going to be happy together here comes the bitter , no good for nothing baby daddy Austin. He really tries everything he can to make Ivy's life miserable and get custody of his daughter. Although i wont say much that way you can read it.
This book is full of laughter , sad moments and definitely some spicy moments. Make sure to read the first book in the series Heartstrings & Horizons so there are no spoilers from the first book.
February 12, 2025
4.5 ⭐
2 🌶️
"You came."
"You needed me."
Overall I really enjoyed this book. The banter is great, the characters are wonderful, the relationship between Luca and Rylin was so so sweet, and I really loved the little glimpses into Paige and Cade's life after their book.
To be honest, there are 2 things keeping this book from being a full 5 for me (spoilers below):
1. The number of times Luca thought about wanting to spank Ivy, and the fact that he did it without have an on-page conversation. She's a DV survivor and I am 100% for women processing and healing from that trauma in WHATEVER way works for them but the lack of a conversation about boundaries or if she even wanted that made it a hard no for me.
2. Third act breakup. It's just not a trope I enjoy and especially not when it feels unnecessary like it did here. It felt like there was plenty going on outside of their relationship that was causing friction and I don't think the story needed it.
2 🌶️
"You came."
"You needed me."
Overall I really enjoyed this book. The banter is great, the characters are wonderful, the relationship between Luca and Rylin was so so sweet, and I really loved the little glimpses into Paige and Cade's life after their book.
To be honest, there are 2 things keeping this book from being a full 5 for me (spoilers below):
1. The number of times Luca thought about wanting to spank Ivy, and the fact that he did it without have an on-page conversation. She's a DV survivor and I am 100% for women processing and healing from that trauma in WHATEVER way works for them but the lack of a conversation about boundaries or if she even wanted that made it a hard no for me.
2. Third act breakup. It's just not a trope I enjoy and especially not when it feels unnecessary like it did here. It felt like there was plenty going on outside of their relationship that was causing friction and I don't think the story needed it.
September 16, 2025
I unfortunately started working a lot of hours while reading this book and because of that I felt like was never really into what was going on. When I would get into I would then fall out of it and the cycle would repeat. With that said I was so ready to read Ivy’s book. After she was introduced in the last book I knew her story was going to be so heartbreakingly beautiful and it was. Luca pretended to be mad at her existence as she was his neighbor but he immediately folded. Luca is the epitome of protective fiancé I guess lol. He stood up for both of them the whole time and the way he loved Rylin as his own had me in a puddle. I felt like some of the things the crazy ex did was a bit much but I guess that was the point. After the whole accident happened I was hoping that they could stay strong but ultimately Ivy left. It made me sad but I guess it made sense for her to go and get space and then when they came together they knew they could be what eachother needed. I will say it made me very angry that everyone was telling Luca to not let her get away as if she wasn’t the one who ran from him after he poured his heart out. Sometimes it makes me very angry when they gaslight men into being the problem. (In fictional worlds that is) overall it was incredible just wish my own personal life wasn’t so shit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2026
story Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spicy Rate: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I feel that Luca is such a gentleman but the thought
that he is willing to fake marry his sister's best
friend just so he can be of any convenience for Ivy
to win full custody of Rylin, damn. That's selfless. I'd
respect that. But also, they have the hots for each
other. Thus, the willingness I supposed in this case 🫣
I love how Rylin easily fall in love with Luca despite
growing up in a hostile dad who doesn't act like a
father at all. That rotten piece of 🤬.
But the agony when Luca didn't actually convey his
feelings properly, that hurts. I won't blame Ivy for
running and then coming back for him.
Overall, enjoy the book a lot but hate the abused part.
There are essence of praise kink.
Spicy Rate: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I feel that Luca is such a gentleman but the thought
that he is willing to fake marry his sister's best
friend just so he can be of any convenience for Ivy
to win full custody of Rylin, damn. That's selfless. I'd
respect that. But also, they have the hots for each
other. Thus, the willingness I supposed in this case 🫣
I love how Rylin easily fall in love with Luca despite
growing up in a hostile dad who doesn't act like a
father at all. That rotten piece of 🤬.
But the agony when Luca didn't actually convey his
feelings properly, that hurts. I won't blame Ivy for
running and then coming back for him.
Overall, enjoy the book a lot but hate the abused part.
There are essence of praise kink.
January 12, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! Luca was everything 😍.
I loved watching the relationship between Ivy, Luca, and Rylin grow. Ry was adorable. And Ivy's ex was a POS who I hated immediately. There was some hard themes in this story, mainly when her ex was trying to lie to take her daughter away just because he wasn't happy about who Ivy was dating. That part resonated a little too closely.
But this trip back to Oak Ridge was amazing, it was the perfect balance of Ivy and Luca's story with appearances from some of our favorite characters from book one.
I loved watching the relationship between Ivy, Luca, and Rylin grow. Ry was adorable. And Ivy's ex was a POS who I hated immediately. There was some hard themes in this story, mainly when her ex was trying to lie to take her daughter away just because he wasn't happy about who Ivy was dating. That part resonated a little too closely.
But this trip back to Oak Ridge was amazing, it was the perfect balance of Ivy and Luca's story with appearances from some of our favorite characters from book one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2025
The second full book of the series did not disappoint! I have to admit that I was a little bummed when I learned that second book was about Ivy and Luca instead of Miles and Mags. However, it was great! This one is full of family, friendships, unexpected love, and real life issues. There were many parts that were very raw. Please read the trigger warnings before indulging.
In the end, it’s a beautiful story with lots of love and PLENTY of spice! I can’t wait to continue this series and learn more about Ivy, Luca, Rylin, and all the others!
In the end, it’s a beautiful story with lots of love and PLENTY of spice! I can’t wait to continue this series and learn more about Ivy, Luca, Rylin, and all the others!
January 30, 2025
Wow
I don't even know where to start. I read, no, devoured this book. Prior to reading, make sure to check the trigger warnings. Willa does a good job highlighting what so many go thru with DV. She also shows it's possible to have your HEA. This was such an emotional book for me because of my own DV story. Even with the heavy parts, there were so many parts that brought lightness to your heart. The witty banter had me kicking my feet and giggling. I highly recommend this book and CANNOT wait for book 3!
Also, can I please live in Oak Ridge?!
I don't even know where to start. I read, no, devoured this book. Prior to reading, make sure to check the trigger warnings. Willa does a good job highlighting what so many go thru with DV. She also shows it's possible to have your HEA. This was such an emotional book for me because of my own DV story. Even with the heavy parts, there were so many parts that brought lightness to your heart. The witty banter had me kicking my feet and giggling. I highly recommend this book and CANNOT wait for book 3!
Also, can I please live in Oak Ridge?!
September 29, 2025
Willa Kay’s Oak Ridge series continues with a survivor of domestic abuse and a man in desperate need of some purpose finding their way to support one another. I like the complexity the author puts into her characters, and Ivy and Luca are no exception. Parts of the book were hard to read, as the depictions of call-backs and the brutal parts of healing post-abuse were quite honest. I also found myself frustrated with Luca when he couldn’t help but get in his own damn way. We’ve all been there. Good book/ would recommend.
November 26, 2025
Book Review - Oak Ridge Series Book 2
Moonlight and Matrimony
Genre - Small Town Romance
Spice - 🌶️🌶️🌶️ ( 3/5)
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 )
Vibes -
Book two and we start off strong with fiery ivy putting Luca in his place. Ivy is a strong woman who’s made a fewmistakes in who she loved in the past but now all she want is to protect her daughter from her toxic father.
Luca is immediately obsessed with Rylin and this little girl has this man wrapped around her little finger from page ten.
In order for the court to take this single mother more seriously she has to have a man obviously. In burst Luca her best friends brother. A marriage of convenience which turns hot and steamy the second there under the same roof.
The third tragedy is a bomb that leaves their little fa,ily crippled and questioning is love worth the heartbreak.
luca and ivy don’t give up on each other tho and even though luca loved her little girl first didn’t mean he love her mama any less.
Ivy found family come together to put them back together in the wake of there traumatic battle with Rylins toxic and abusive father.
Moonlight and Matrimony
Genre - Small Town Romance
Spice - 🌶️🌶️🌶️ ( 3/5)
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5 )
Vibes -
Book two and we start off strong with fiery ivy putting Luca in his place. Ivy is a strong woman who’s made a fewmistakes in who she loved in the past but now all she want is to protect her daughter from her toxic father.
Luca is immediately obsessed with Rylin and this little girl has this man wrapped around her little finger from page ten.
In order for the court to take this single mother more seriously she has to have a man obviously. In burst Luca her best friends brother. A marriage of convenience which turns hot and steamy the second there under the same roof.
The third tragedy is a bomb that leaves their little fa,ily crippled and questioning is love worth the heartbreak.
luca and ivy don’t give up on each other tho and even though luca loved her little girl first didn’t mean he love her mama any less.
Ivy found family come together to put them back together in the wake of there traumatic battle with Rylins toxic and abusive father.
December 30, 2024
OBSESSED. Best-friends brother, neighbors, marriage of convenience, fake dating, so much spice, PTSD/Abuse rep, then finished off with the sweetest HEA. Willa knocked it out of the park with this!!
I will say be MINDFUL of the *trigger warnings*. There’s some heavy themes in this, but they’re written so so accurately. (As a DV survivor.) This book will have you crying tears of joy & of gut wrenching sadness- you won’t want to put it down.
Definitely in my top 10 reads of the year.
I will say be MINDFUL of the *trigger warnings*. There’s some heavy themes in this, but they’re written so so accurately. (As a DV survivor.) This book will have you crying tears of joy & of gut wrenching sadness- you won’t want to put it down.
Definitely in my top 10 reads of the year.
December 31, 2024
✨ARC Review✨
I adore this story. Please check your triggers there is mention of dv and something happen on page so be mindful going in however I ate this up. Ivy and Luca wete just destined to happen. There isnt a single thing that I would change. This pulled on my heartstrings and gave me all the feels. This has marriage of convenience, he falls first and harder, single mom, grumpyxsunshine, crawl to me and it was perfect!
I adore this story. Please check your triggers there is mention of dv and something happen on page so be mindful going in however I ate this up. Ivy and Luca wete just destined to happen. There isnt a single thing that I would change. This pulled on my heartstrings and gave me all the feels. This has marriage of convenience, he falls first and harder, single mom, grumpyxsunshine, crawl to me and it was perfect!
January 2, 2025
Wow.
Ivy and Luca’s story is absolutely beautiful. Heartbreaking one moment and heartwarming the next. This book tells a very complicated story and each characters internal struggles in a way that is beautiful and relatable. Domestic violence is a complicated subject but Willa tells this story in a way that doesn’t diminish the struggles but also doesn’t leave anything out. Absolutely stunning!
Ivy and Luca’s story is absolutely beautiful. Heartbreaking one moment and heartwarming the next. This book tells a very complicated story and each characters internal struggles in a way that is beautiful and relatable. Domestic violence is a complicated subject but Willa tells this story in a way that doesn’t diminish the struggles but also doesn’t leave anything out. Absolutely stunning!
January 15, 2025
I didn’t think Willa Kay could make me love characters any more than I already love Paige and Cade, but I may love Ivy and Luca more! This story made me laugh, cry, and if I’m honest it made me feel a few other things too (wink, wink). The way this book so seamlessly weaves together a beautiful story of redemption, domestic violence, found family, and plenty of spice is nothing short of brilliant. I truly can’t wait for the next installment in this series.
January 16, 2025
This is the best one yet! Willa sucked me in and I had 2 nights of staying up until 4 am reading because I couldn’t put my kindle down. It was so good that I held onto the last 4 percent and stopped reading because I didn’t want to be done with the book. Ivy and Luca gripped my heart so hard. There was laughter, tears, angst, relief, heart flutters. All the makings of an amazing book. I am so ready for mags and miles’ story!
January 16, 2025
This book is fantastic. It made me cry several times and my chest hurt. That’s a good sign ladies and gentlemen. Luca? Daddy. And not the father figure type either. Well, he’s the dad that showed up. But daddy. You know what I mean. Ivy? Badass. String. Then you have the 4 year old obsessed with popcorn which tracks considering my children are obsessed with popcorn.
Overall? 10 outta 10
🎶The blackeyed peas tasted alright to meeeeeeee eeaarrlllllll…🎶
Overall? 10 outta 10
🎶The blackeyed peas tasted alright to meeeeeeee eeaarrlllllll…🎶
April 7, 2025
This was a heavy hitting book. If you plan to read, please know that the author heavily talks about domestic violence. If that is a trigger, please skip this!
Vibes:
-Heavy Romance
-Touch her & Die.
-Fake Dating
-Single Mom meets Grumpy Carpenter
I loved the characters and story. It was wholesome and gives you all the feels. I would say the spice is a 3.5/5. If you like lifetime/hallmark movies, I definitely recommend it.
Vibes:
-Heavy Romance
-Touch her & Die.
-Fake Dating
-Single Mom meets Grumpy Carpenter
I loved the characters and story. It was wholesome and gives you all the feels. I would say the spice is a 3.5/5. If you like lifetime/hallmark movies, I definitely recommend it.
January 22, 2025
Arc review- This book kept me entertained the entire time!
Ivy finally decided to leave Austin and live life on her own. Little did she know she was about to meet her grumpy neighbor and he would change her life.
Luca came into Ivy’s life unexpectedly but quickly turned into the best story. I love how protective Luca is over Ivy and Ry. I’m happy that Luca and Ivy got their happy ending!
Ivy finally decided to leave Austin and live life on her own. Little did she know she was about to meet her grumpy neighbor and he would change her life.
Luca came into Ivy’s life unexpectedly but quickly turned into the best story. I love how protective Luca is over Ivy and Ry. I’m happy that Luca and Ivy got their happy ending!
January 23, 2025
Willa is quickly becoming an auto buy author for me. I absolutely love visiting Oak Ridge with each of her beautiful written stories. Ivy intrigued me from the start and I'm so glad we finally get her story. This book is heartbreaking and a bit of an emotional rollercoaster and I loved every bit of it. Rylin, Ivy, and Luca deserve the world.
January 31, 2025
Wow… this is Willa’s best one yet! The character building and plot were absolutely phenomenal and as a single mother who coparents a young daughter, this hit very close to home. This is one of the best single mother books I have EVER read and I am going to recommend this to everyone I know… after my emotions recover of course.
October 9, 2025
Agh! I’m so in love with this book! I was swooning(is that a word?!😂), I was crying, I was laughing, I was silently screaming (both from anger and swoon) but most of all I was falling in love with this book and the characters. There was not a wasted character! Both main and secondary characters! So happy to have discoverd Willa Kay!
January 7, 2025
This book wrecked me in the best way possible. The spice is hot af. The drama had me on the edge of my seat. It felt like I was right there experiencing it. Which was both phenomenal writing and terrifying given the situations. Amazing writing and I can’t wait for the next story in Oak Ridge!
February 9, 2025
Be prepared- this book will take you through all the emotions leaving you fulfilled by the end! It was such an empowering and emotional journey that will make this book hard to put down once you get started.
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