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This is Me Trying
Riley Fields is an introvert who guards her heart and her dreams. She has always lived life on the safe side, and she’s finally feeling like she might want to break out of that mold, but will her past experiences let her? The day she decides she’s going to put herself out there, a hot stranger takes a seat at her table and bulldozes his way into her life, but will she let him into her heart?
Finn Hart is a successful contractor who is new to the small town of Evergreen Ridge. He’s attractive and confident, or at least, that’s what he puts out to the world. The disappointment of his family haunts him every day and gnaws at his insecurities. Just days after he arrives in town, he walks into a coffee shop and sees the most beautiful girl he’s ever laid eyes on. She’s unaffected by his charm, which intrigues him even more. He makes it his mission to get her to open up to him and give him a chance.
Maybe these two broken people can help each other patch up the pieces of each other’s hearts.
Finn Hart is a successful contractor who is new to the small town of Evergreen Ridge. He’s attractive and confident, or at least, that’s what he puts out to the world. The disappointment of his family haunts him every day and gnaws at his insecurities. Just days after he arrives in town, he walks into a coffee shop and sees the most beautiful girl he’s ever laid eyes on. She’s unaffected by his charm, which intrigues him even more. He makes it his mission to get her to open up to him and give him a chance.
Maybe these two broken people can help each other patch up the pieces of each other’s hearts.
- GenresRomanceClean Romance
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2025
16 people are currently reading
220 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
February 19, 2025
“If she doesn't commit, she can't be left, but I'm going to show her that she has nothing to be afraid of with me because I'm not going anywhere. Ever.”
⤿💚19/02/25
3.25 stars 💫
pub. status: out now!!
This was overall, a sweet romance read. I read it in one sitting. I feel this book is perfect for those who want to read a little adorable romance book with less complexity and no spice at all.
What to expect 💌:
🌸 Small town romance
🌸 Closed-door
🌸 He falls first
🌸 Contractor x Interior Designer
🌸 One Bed
🌸 Found Family
🌸 Anxiety Rep
Riley was sometimes relatable for me as an ambivert (and I'm sure a lot of introverts would relate to her), but the way her character was written is something I loved. She portrays raw real emotions swirling through her, and the grief and trauma she has to go through losing a loved one. And that makes her an introvert, isolating herself from others for years. But now she's trying her best to change herself for the better.
Finn comes into her life with his charming personality, showing her she doesn't have to do all the things on her own always, and that she can always lean on him. He slowly breaks the wall she had built around herself and waits for her patiently to open up to him. He is kind, patient, caring, and protective when it comes to her. I loved the way he stood up to those who hurt her and she did the same when it came to those who hurt him.
What I did found less interesting was the insta love and repitition of some words constantly like "thank you's". I might be the only one who felt it that way, so don't let that stop you. This is the author's debut book, and I must say she did an amazing job as for it being the first time. I will be looking forward to Chloe's & Mason's book 😊
Thankyou to Sunny Babe PR and the Author for providing me with this arc in exchange for an honest review. 💕
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
⤿💚19/02/25
just another day, another arc to read before the deadline 😃 (i.e. tomorrow)
⤿💚19/02/25
3.25 stars 💫
pub. status: out now!!
This was overall, a sweet romance read. I read it in one sitting. I feel this book is perfect for those who want to read a little adorable romance book with less complexity and no spice at all.
What to expect 💌:
🌸 Small town romance
🌸 Closed-door
🌸 He falls first
🌸 Contractor x Interior Designer
🌸 One Bed
🌸 Found Family
🌸 Anxiety Rep
Riley was sometimes relatable for me as an ambivert (and I'm sure a lot of introverts would relate to her), but the way her character was written is something I loved. She portrays raw real emotions swirling through her, and the grief and trauma she has to go through losing a loved one. And that makes her an introvert, isolating herself from others for years. But now she's trying her best to change herself for the better.
Finn comes into her life with his charming personality, showing her she doesn't have to do all the things on her own always, and that she can always lean on him. He slowly breaks the wall she had built around herself and waits for her patiently to open up to him. He is kind, patient, caring, and protective when it comes to her. I loved the way he stood up to those who hurt her and she did the same when it came to those who hurt him.
What I did found less interesting was the insta love and repitition of some words constantly like "thank you's". I might be the only one who felt it that way, so don't let that stop you. This is the author's debut book, and I must say she did an amazing job as for it being the first time. I will be looking forward to Chloe's & Mason's book 😊
Thankyou to Sunny Babe PR and the Author for providing me with this arc in exchange for an honest review. 💕
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
⤿💚19/02/25
just another day, another arc to read before the deadline 😃 (i.e. tomorrow)
February 9, 2025
“If you don’t try you already failed. No one is going to do it for you. You can choose the safe route, like most people, or you can take that leap of faith and believe in yourself.”
Riley is so similar to most of us afraid to put herself out there whether it’s love or career. It’s easier to live your life behind the scenes that way you never get hurt and you never fail and then Finn walks into her world here temporarily on a construction project. He is instantly smitten and cannot help but be drawn to her but knows she won’t let him in easily. He is determined to show her that he will fight for her for them. He is patient, genuine and kind - she starts to soften and let her guard down but at every big declaration of feelings, she is off and running away. Finn keeps calm and gives her space to work through her emotions but when he finally says I love you and she takes off, will he finally give up and move back home to Seattle?
Thank you Sunny Babe Pr & Ashley Vargas for ARC copy in turn for my honest review.
Riley is so similar to most of us afraid to put herself out there whether it’s love or career. It’s easier to live your life behind the scenes that way you never get hurt and you never fail and then Finn walks into her world here temporarily on a construction project. He is instantly smitten and cannot help but be drawn to her but knows she won’t let him in easily. He is determined to show her that he will fight for her for them. He is patient, genuine and kind - she starts to soften and let her guard down but at every big declaration of feelings, she is off and running away. Finn keeps calm and gives her space to work through her emotions but when he finally says I love you and she takes off, will he finally give up and move back home to Seattle?
Thank you Sunny Babe Pr & Ashley Vargas for ARC copy in turn for my honest review.
February 3, 2025
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
0/5 🌶️
☕️Teaser☕️
“My brain is so screwed up that when I ask someone to respect my boundaries, I take it as rejection when they do.”
🧱The Vibe🧱
☕️ Mental Health Rep
🧱 He Falls First
☕️ Found Family
🧱 Closed Door
☕️ Grumpy/Sunshine
🧱 One Bed
☕️My thoughts☕️
Okay this was such an adorable book!! I’m usually not much of a contemporary romance girlie as I’m full fledged in my fantasy era but this reminded me of why I really enjoy the cutesy romance.
Riley is so relatable as a character who has been through trauma and loss of a loved one. She was written as a very real very raw individual, one who is just starting to pull herself out of the funk.
Finn, oh goodness do I love this one. From this cocky confident meet cute, to the man he is on the very last page I loved all stages of Finn. His patience’s with dang near every character except one (IYKYK) is amazing. If a perfect man exists it’s Finn. And also I love vanilla ice cream it’s a classic. Period.
I loved the progression of the story, it did move really quickly which was different from other contemporaries that I’ve read it the past. It was refreshing to have a quicker moving story!
It was very easy to read and I didn’t want to put it down! A great debut novel for Ashley Vargas!
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and Ashley Vargas for an e-copy of this book!!
Releasing February 11th
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
0/5 🌶️
☕️Teaser☕️
“My brain is so screwed up that when I ask someone to respect my boundaries, I take it as rejection when they do.”
🧱The Vibe🧱
☕️ Mental Health Rep
🧱 He Falls First
☕️ Found Family
🧱 Closed Door
☕️ Grumpy/Sunshine
🧱 One Bed
☕️My thoughts☕️
Okay this was such an adorable book!! I’m usually not much of a contemporary romance girlie as I’m full fledged in my fantasy era but this reminded me of why I really enjoy the cutesy romance.
Riley is so relatable as a character who has been through trauma and loss of a loved one. She was written as a very real very raw individual, one who is just starting to pull herself out of the funk.
Finn, oh goodness do I love this one. From this cocky confident meet cute, to the man he is on the very last page I loved all stages of Finn. His patience’s with dang near every character except one (IYKYK) is amazing. If a perfect man exists it’s Finn. And also I love vanilla ice cream it’s a classic. Period.
I loved the progression of the story, it did move really quickly which was different from other contemporaries that I’ve read it the past. It was refreshing to have a quicker moving story!
It was very easy to read and I didn’t want to put it down! A great debut novel for Ashley Vargas!
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and Ashley Vargas for an e-copy of this book!!
Releasing February 11th
January 24, 2025
I was provided this ARC from Sunny Babe PR in exchange for my honest opinion :) @ realmsoflondonreads on Instagram for more.
This was a beautiful little story, and I resonated with lots of little things throughout the book! The mental health representation, the desire to just be in one's bed when life gets hard and shut the world out, the inability to trust fully.
The MMC was golden retriever times a million, the world's biggest green flag! I loved Finn so much! Both characters had their funny one liners and moments, and even the odd miscommunication trope that isn't normally my thing was really done well in this book!
It took me a little while to get into it but once I did I inhaled it! The only reason the dates on here are a bit longer is that a big release I was at a midnight release for came out and I had to read that in the middle. Otherwise I'd have read this super fast!
To think that Ashley Vargas is a brand new author, I am genuinely really impressed and hope to be able to read more from her in the future! :)
This was a beautiful little story, and I resonated with lots of little things throughout the book! The mental health representation, the desire to just be in one's bed when life gets hard and shut the world out, the inability to trust fully.
The MMC was golden retriever times a million, the world's biggest green flag! I loved Finn so much! Both characters had their funny one liners and moments, and even the odd miscommunication trope that isn't normally my thing was really done well in this book!
It took me a little while to get into it but once I did I inhaled it! The only reason the dates on here are a bit longer is that a big release I was at a midnight release for came out and I had to read that in the middle. Otherwise I'd have read this super fast!
To think that Ashley Vargas is a brand new author, I am genuinely really impressed and hope to be able to read more from her in the future! :)
February 12, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
First off, thank you to Sunny Babe PR for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC! This is Me Trying by Ashley Vargas is written from the POVs of Riley and Finn. They meet at a coffee shop and it’s a classic case of “he falls first”. Riley is an introvert dealing with anxiety and past trauma, while Finn gives off golden retriever vibes. Finn is determined to get Riley to open up, help her heal from her past, and chase after her dreams.
This book is a closed door romance + super adorable. I really enjoyed the main characters as well as Riley’s best friend Chloe. Dealing with anxiety myself, I usually enjoy reading about characters that also struggle with it, and this book was no exception. I will say that I enjoyed the writing style for the inner monologue more than the dialogue between characters. Altogether, it’s a cute book and I appreciated the anxiety rep!
First off, thank you to Sunny Babe PR for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC! This is Me Trying by Ashley Vargas is written from the POVs of Riley and Finn. They meet at a coffee shop and it’s a classic case of “he falls first”. Riley is an introvert dealing with anxiety and past trauma, while Finn gives off golden retriever vibes. Finn is determined to get Riley to open up, help her heal from her past, and chase after her dreams.
This book is a closed door romance + super adorable. I really enjoyed the main characters as well as Riley’s best friend Chloe. Dealing with anxiety myself, I usually enjoy reading about characters that also struggle with it, and this book was no exception. I will say that I enjoyed the writing style for the inner monologue more than the dialogue between characters. Altogether, it’s a cute book and I appreciated the anxiety rep!
January 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5/5) This is Me Trying by Ashley Vargas
Quote: “No, Riley, you don’t look like Snape. You look hot.” When I read this, I legit laughed out loud 😂
This book was absolutely freaking adorable! It gave me all the feels, I laughed, teared up, etc! 💜💜I related so much to Riley, and loved seeing this story unfold! It shows the complexities of relationships, both intimate ones and friendships, and made me so happy! Riley’s friends are ride or die. And her love interest is so swoon worthy! He is the kind of guy EVERY girl deserves. She deserves someone who understands her flaws, and doesn’t shy away, someone who won’t run off at the first sign of trouble, but will ride the current with her. It was just beautiful. 🫶
What to expect:
✨Reverse grumpy x sunshine
✨One Bed (a personal fav)
✨Closed Door
✨Anxiety Rep
✨He Falls First
Highly recommend picking this book up when it releases on February 11th!!
Also side note, as someone who married a man who loves vanilla ice cream, I laughed so much at Riley’s assumptions of him! IYKYK😂
Quote: “No, Riley, you don’t look like Snape. You look hot.” When I read this, I legit laughed out loud 😂
This book was absolutely freaking adorable! It gave me all the feels, I laughed, teared up, etc! 💜💜I related so much to Riley, and loved seeing this story unfold! It shows the complexities of relationships, both intimate ones and friendships, and made me so happy! Riley’s friends are ride or die. And her love interest is so swoon worthy! He is the kind of guy EVERY girl deserves. She deserves someone who understands her flaws, and doesn’t shy away, someone who won’t run off at the first sign of trouble, but will ride the current with her. It was just beautiful. 🫶
What to expect:
✨Reverse grumpy x sunshine
✨One Bed (a personal fav)
✨Closed Door
✨Anxiety Rep
✨He Falls First
Highly recommend picking this book up when it releases on February 11th!!
Also side note, as someone who married a man who loves vanilla ice cream, I laughed so much at Riley’s assumptions of him! IYKYK😂
August 9, 2025
This book was a quick, adorable and fun read. The reverse grumpy sunshine trope is always a good one and I loved the found family aspect. Oh and I loved the tension between the two side characters Chloe and Mason. I hope there will book 2 where we get to hear about their story! Also, I really enjoyed the anxiety representation throughout the book as well.
February 5, 2025
If someone would’ve asked me how would I describe this book, I would’ve said that it’s comfortable. Which is quite ironic considering on of the main focuses of the story is on the FMC’s anxiety. Actually, as someone struggling with anxiety, I was really glad to see people like me being represented quite well in a novel, and I’m very thankful for that. So, why did I find the story so comforting? Mainly, because of the relationship. It was a kind of insta love, and, even though they’ve had some troubles throughout the book, I didn’t feel like they could’ve been critical. The characters have a strong “comfort character” potential, the small town setting making them even closer to the reader and other characters. I would’ve liked for the story to be just a bit more dynamic, and the last “problem” felt like a page filler, but other than that, it was a really nice novel that I’d definitely recommend.
February 11, 2025
First off, thank you so much to Sunny Babe PR for this ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This was such a sweet romance! I really enjoyed Riley and Finn’s banter and chemistry. I love how much they helped each other grow and bring out the best in each other. I also loved Riley’s friendship with Chloe, and how patient and supportive Chloe was. Homegirl Riley NEEDS to go to therapy though, ASAP 😅
Overall, it was a cute, quick read! I started it on the 29th, but really read most of it in one sitting today. I’m interested to know if we’ll have more stories in this sweet town! Possibly featuring a certain other couple? 👀🤭
I definitely recommend checking this out if you want something warm and cozy! This is Me Trying will be available on February 11, 2025. 🫶🏻
Tropes:
✨Closed Door
✨Small Town Romance
✨Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
✨Only One Bed
✨He Falls First
✨Found Family
✨Anxiety Rep
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This was such a sweet romance! I really enjoyed Riley and Finn’s banter and chemistry. I love how much they helped each other grow and bring out the best in each other. I also loved Riley’s friendship with Chloe, and how patient and supportive Chloe was. Homegirl Riley NEEDS to go to therapy though, ASAP 😅
Overall, it was a cute, quick read! I started it on the 29th, but really read most of it in one sitting today. I’m interested to know if we’ll have more stories in this sweet town! Possibly featuring a certain other couple? 👀🤭
I definitely recommend checking this out if you want something warm and cozy! This is Me Trying will be available on February 11, 2025. 🫶🏻
Tropes:
✨Closed Door
✨Small Town Romance
✨Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
✨Only One Bed
✨He Falls First
✨Found Family
✨Anxiety Rep
November 6, 2025
The cutest, most beautiful words I've ever read! Thankyou so much Ashley Vargas for giving me Riley and Finn❤️. You healed something in me through this book❤️.
January 27, 2025
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A cute small town romance with two individuals who do not feel they are enough and find each other.
Finn sees Riley sitting in a coffee shop and knows he needs to meet her, Riley wants nothing to do with him. Riley then sees Finn at her place of employment a hardware store where he is needing materials. Finn being patient is slowly winning Riley over, even though Riley has her own issues and insecurities. Riley finally realizing that Finn isn't going anywhere is slowly opening up to him.
This is a fun light read with the characters being enjoyable.
The serial killer, vanilla ice cream was probably a favorite for me that cracked me up and go Riley for standing up and telling Finn's mom off.
Release date February 11, 2025
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR and Ashley Vargas for this ARC in exchange for my review.
A cute small town romance with two individuals who do not feel they are enough and find each other.
Finn sees Riley sitting in a coffee shop and knows he needs to meet her, Riley wants nothing to do with him. Riley then sees Finn at her place of employment a hardware store where he is needing materials. Finn being patient is slowly winning Riley over, even though Riley has her own issues and insecurities. Riley finally realizing that Finn isn't going anywhere is slowly opening up to him.
This is a fun light read with the characters being enjoyable.
The serial killer, vanilla ice cream was probably a favorite for me that cracked me up and go Riley for standing up and telling Finn's mom off.
Release date February 11, 2025
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR and Ashley Vargas for this ARC in exchange for my review.
February 19, 2025
The perfect small town romance for a quick and cutesy read!!
This book contains the perfect tropes and has a really good story line. I do feel like the writing could be improved a little however this is her debut novel so it is definitely to be expected.
It has a good representation for anxiety and panic attacks. Finn is the ultimate green flag and but not in a cringe way.
This book contains the perfect tropes and has a really good story line. I do feel like the writing could be improved a little however this is her debut novel so it is definitely to be expected.
It has a good representation for anxiety and panic attacks. Finn is the ultimate green flag and but not in a cringe way.
January 13, 2026
4.5⭐
I need a minute to breatheeee and gather my bearings because what was that!?
I loveddd this book fiercely, the small town romance
Finn! 🩷He. Moved. To. Evergreen. For. Her🙌
I also loved how he was willing to keep things professional for her, a real gentleman over here✨😌
It's how he was the only one who would call him Riles which is mind you something she doesn't allow most people to do without biting their heads off
The way Finn got me giddy and giggling throughout this book has to be thoroughly studied
I had a great time I can't lie and I loved every second of it
Oh my gosh this is a small town romance 🤩🤩
I love Finn already, he's 6'2 guysssssss
Ohh this is when I'm realizing that Riley works at a home improvement store while Chloe (her best friend) is the one who works at the cafe 😶
Oh and Finn is a construction contractor
Not Craig (employee) catching her checking out Finn's butt, I would want to disintegrate if I were her😭
So Finn gets nervous talking to Riley and ends up trying to charm her which upsets her, but atleast he's trying his best 😭
I'm sensing Chloe-and-Mason-are-going-to-end-up-together vibezzzzzz ✨🤭
And honestly I'm rooting for them🫶 as well as for Finn and Riley of course 💕
“Riley, I can’t wait for the day you see what we all see, and I hope it’s sooner rather than later. Because what everyone else sees is incredible, and you’ve lived way too long tearing yourself down.”- Chloe
A best friend a girl can ask for🫶❤️
"Oh, great, what did I get myself into? We’re just going for one drink and that’s it. Just two girlfriends getting a drink. What could possibly go wrong?"- Riley
Oh I don't know, maybe you meeting Finn?🤭
“Don’t be so modest, Chloe.”
“See, Riley, that’s where you need to reframe your mind. It’s not vain to feel good in your skin. You look hot tonight, and not only are you hot, you are an amazing person, so own it.”
- the kind of girlie we all need👏👏🏅
What has just happened right now??😦
"After a night like tonight, it’s hard not to compare myself to the woman that Finn was on a date with. Perfect skin, perfect body, perfect manicured hand that was rubbing his stupid forearm that definitely isn’t sexy."- Riley
🙄😒 *Side eye* girl you're lying and also he doesn't even know that woman
He’s smirking at me again. “I’m talking about you, Riles, and I wish that you could see that as easily as I do. I may not have pushed her off of me, but it’s because I froze. Believe it or not, I actually hate being touched by women I don’t know. I have no desire to have random women throw themselves at me without knowing me. I don’t enjoy feeling like a piece of meat. That’s besides the point, though, Riles, it’s you that I want touching me.”
- 🤭💘💘💋
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh did Riley just kiss him!?!??🤩🤩🤩✨
It's how Finn wants Mason to hire her as an interior designer not only because he wants to be close to her but also he sees potential in her and he knows what she is able to accomplish, that right there , is a real man👏🏆😌
In a world of boys he's a ✨ gentleman ✨
“So, why am I a serial killer now? Because I like vanilla ice cream?”
“Obviously. No sane person comes to an ice cream shop, where they have a pick of about twenty flavors, and picks vanilla.”🍦
- I agree with Riley on this one, why just why??
“Hopefully the only thing you like vanilla is your ice cream,” I murmur to myself, thinking he can’t hear me until he responds.
The timbre of his voice drops even more than normal. “Yes, Riley, the only thing I like vanilla is my ice cream.” Is he staring at my mouth again? I
think he is, and why do I feel tingles all over my body?
- oh dear 🤭 *insert Sabrina carpenter biting finger sticker*
I really hope this ends up being a one-bed trope 🤞🤞 (yessssssss mwahahahaha😈)
"Love is never supposed to be conditional. You love someone because of who they are, not who you want them to be.If they can’t do that, then... What was it you said about my dad? Oh yeah, screw them."- Riley
Dangggggg Finn is rich💵🤑, got her a fancy car with a driver to chauffeur her around the city
"I shoot her a text that I’m downstairs waiting for her, and she lets me know she’ll be down in a minute. I have no clue if it’s a girl minute or an actual minute, but who am I kidding? I would wait forever for that woman.That’s the kind of spell she has me under.🫶🙂↕️❤️❤️🔥
- Finn
How Finn's parents make him and his brother compete over things reminds me exactly of Stella Alonso, when she chose to do something she loved and her parents didn't like that and viewed her as a disappointment compared to her sister
I'm giggling and blushing over words on paper 🤭
Riley had the worst dad(no, sperm donor) to ever exist, he wasn't concerned about her mom's health and also didn't love her or Riley 😤
She was only 10 but still helped her mom in her finally moments 🥺
Where can I find Finn Hart??? Like ASAP
Craig is literally the best🥹
"Blood doesn't make a family, love does❤️"- Riley
What!?!? What is her sperm donor (sorry, dad 😒) doing here?
Yesssssssss💃💃💃my Man Finn to the rescue🙌
Finn just called her baby oh.my.gosh✨
Whaaaaaaaaatttttttttttttt they did it!?!?!?!?!?
Jaw. Dropped. LITERALLY
*Finn after Mason told Riley that he would go back to Seattle*
Finn: thanks a lot you idiot, thanks a lot Rachel 😤
“Then it’s important. Whatever is important to my girl is important to me.”
I freeze. “Your girl?”
“Yes… are you not mine?”
“Am I?”
“What is this twenty-one questions? Yes, of course, you’re mine. You’ve been mine for a while now, Riles. I was just waiting for you to come around to the idea.”😘
Fictional world, hey it's me(again)..uhm can you make Finn Hart real??
He remembered that her mom loved lilies 🤧💗
Riley defending Finn 👏👏👏
He got her her mom's vintage teardrop necklace ❤️💎
Excuse me??? Riley why??😮💨 He told you how he feels about you and you just say "I have to go"??
Ahhhhh he's proposing!!!!😍🤩🤩
And he's proposing with a ring that looks like her mother's teardrop necklace 😭where can I find such a man??
I need a minute to breatheeee and gather my bearings because what was that!?
I loveddd this book fiercely, the small town romance
Finn! 🩷He. Moved. To. Evergreen. For. Her🙌
I also loved how he was willing to keep things professional for her, a real gentleman over here✨😌
It's how he was the only one who would call him Riles which is mind you something she doesn't allow most people to do without biting their heads off
The way Finn got me giddy and giggling throughout this book has to be thoroughly studied
I had a great time I can't lie and I loved every second of it
Oh my gosh this is a small town romance 🤩🤩
I love Finn already, he's 6'2 guysssssss
Ohh this is when I'm realizing that Riley works at a home improvement store while Chloe (her best friend) is the one who works at the cafe 😶
Oh and Finn is a construction contractor
Not Craig (employee) catching her checking out Finn's butt, I would want to disintegrate if I were her😭
So Finn gets nervous talking to Riley and ends up trying to charm her which upsets her, but atleast he's trying his best 😭
I'm sensing Chloe-and-Mason-are-going-to-end-up-together vibezzzzzz ✨🤭
And honestly I'm rooting for them🫶 as well as for Finn and Riley of course 💕
“Riley, I can’t wait for the day you see what we all see, and I hope it’s sooner rather than later. Because what everyone else sees is incredible, and you’ve lived way too long tearing yourself down.”- Chloe
A best friend a girl can ask for🫶❤️
"Oh, great, what did I get myself into? We’re just going for one drink and that’s it. Just two girlfriends getting a drink. What could possibly go wrong?"- Riley
Oh I don't know, maybe you meeting Finn?🤭
“Don’t be so modest, Chloe.”
“See, Riley, that’s where you need to reframe your mind. It’s not vain to feel good in your skin. You look hot tonight, and not only are you hot, you are an amazing person, so own it.”
- the kind of girlie we all need👏👏🏅
What has just happened right now??😦
"After a night like tonight, it’s hard not to compare myself to the woman that Finn was on a date with. Perfect skin, perfect body, perfect manicured hand that was rubbing his stupid forearm that definitely isn’t sexy."- Riley
🙄😒 *Side eye* girl you're lying and also he doesn't even know that woman
He’s smirking at me again. “I’m talking about you, Riles, and I wish that you could see that as easily as I do. I may not have pushed her off of me, but it’s because I froze. Believe it or not, I actually hate being touched by women I don’t know. I have no desire to have random women throw themselves at me without knowing me. I don’t enjoy feeling like a piece of meat. That’s besides the point, though, Riles, it’s you that I want touching me.”
- 🤭💘💘💋
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh did Riley just kiss him!?!??🤩🤩🤩✨
It's how Finn wants Mason to hire her as an interior designer not only because he wants to be close to her but also he sees potential in her and he knows what she is able to accomplish, that right there , is a real man👏🏆😌
In a world of boys he's a ✨ gentleman ✨
“So, why am I a serial killer now? Because I like vanilla ice cream?”
“Obviously. No sane person comes to an ice cream shop, where they have a pick of about twenty flavors, and picks vanilla.”🍦
- I agree with Riley on this one, why just why??
“Hopefully the only thing you like vanilla is your ice cream,” I murmur to myself, thinking he can’t hear me until he responds.
The timbre of his voice drops even more than normal. “Yes, Riley, the only thing I like vanilla is my ice cream.” Is he staring at my mouth again? I
think he is, and why do I feel tingles all over my body?
- oh dear 🤭 *insert Sabrina carpenter biting finger sticker*
I really hope this ends up being a one-bed trope 🤞🤞 (yessssssss mwahahahaha😈)
"Love is never supposed to be conditional. You love someone because of who they are, not who you want them to be.If they can’t do that, then... What was it you said about my dad? Oh yeah, screw them."- Riley
Dangggggg Finn is rich💵🤑, got her a fancy car with a driver to chauffeur her around the city
"I shoot her a text that I’m downstairs waiting for her, and she lets me know she’ll be down in a minute. I have no clue if it’s a girl minute or an actual minute, but who am I kidding? I would wait forever for that woman.That’s the kind of spell she has me under.🫶🙂↕️❤️❤️🔥
- Finn
How Finn's parents make him and his brother compete over things reminds me exactly of Stella Alonso, when she chose to do something she loved and her parents didn't like that and viewed her as a disappointment compared to her sister
I'm giggling and blushing over words on paper 🤭
Riley had the worst dad(no, sperm donor) to ever exist, he wasn't concerned about her mom's health and also didn't love her or Riley 😤
She was only 10 but still helped her mom in her finally moments 🥺
Where can I find Finn Hart??? Like ASAP
Craig is literally the best🥹
"Blood doesn't make a family, love does❤️"- Riley
What!?!? What is her sperm donor (sorry, dad 😒) doing here?
Yesssssssss💃💃💃my Man Finn to the rescue🙌
Finn just called her baby oh.my.gosh✨
Whaaaaaaaaatttttttttttttt they did it!?!?!?!?!?
Jaw. Dropped. LITERALLY
*Finn after Mason told Riley that he would go back to Seattle*
Finn: thanks a lot you idiot, thanks a lot Rachel 😤
“Then it’s important. Whatever is important to my girl is important to me.”
I freeze. “Your girl?”
“Yes… are you not mine?”
“Am I?”
“What is this twenty-one questions? Yes, of course, you’re mine. You’ve been mine for a while now, Riles. I was just waiting for you to come around to the idea.”😘
Fictional world, hey it's me(again)..uhm can you make Finn Hart real??
He remembered that her mom loved lilies 🤧💗
Riley defending Finn 👏👏👏
He got her her mom's vintage teardrop necklace ❤️💎
Excuse me??? Riley why??😮💨 He told you how he feels about you and you just say "I have to go"??
Ahhhhh he's proposing!!!!😍🤩🤩
And he's proposing with a ring that looks like her mother's teardrop necklace 😭where can I find such a man??
January 10, 2026
I have actually never felt more seen in a book in my whole life!! Riley is literally me and there was soooo many quotes in this book that just hit hard. I also love how she was insecure in the beginning but in the end you could really see her learning to love herself. I am also in love with Finn. He was sooo sweet and the way he knew her so well was amazing. I also love how he took care of her so well and never left her side. Even when she hurt him he still stayed!! Half way through the book I would have said it was a 4 star but then I just really started to love Riley and the book got so much faster. Also I loved the little side plot with Craig and how he was like a father figure to Riley. I loved to see them interact and the advice he gave her. When he mentioned his wife all I was thinking is that I need a book about him and his story. I am also soooo excited to see mason and Chloe’s story. Chloe is actually the bested best friend ever and I would love to see her love story. This book is just one of those ones I know I will think about later. Riley and Finn’s relationship was amazing and the way they both showed up for eachother was perfect. Oh my gosh and one more thing the way he found the necklace and even got the engagement ring that matched was soooo soo sweet.
Quotes: I loved so many and found myself not really highlighting because I was so lost in the book but here are a few
“He leads me over to the spot and makes good. This time as two people who are a bit broken, but helping each other mend the cracks.”
“Finn, you are enough. You are more than enough, and I want to junk punch anyone who has ever made you feel like you’re not. You have been there for me in ways that no one in my life ever has, and I am so thankful for you. I have fought how I feel for you, but I truly can’t because it’s too strong. I love you, Finn Hart. I have loved you for a while, but I have been too scared to even admit it to myself. I love every part of you because you are you.”
“Thank you, Craig. For this talk and for being the father figure that I never had.”
This isn’t a specific quote but also just the way she showed Riley’s thoughts and always not thinking people liked her and thinking she wasn’t good enough was so realistic and it felt like me.
Quotes: I loved so many and found myself not really highlighting because I was so lost in the book but here are a few
“He leads me over to the spot and makes good. This time as two people who are a bit broken, but helping each other mend the cracks.”
“Finn, you are enough. You are more than enough, and I want to junk punch anyone who has ever made you feel like you’re not. You have been there for me in ways that no one in my life ever has, and I am so thankful for you. I have fought how I feel for you, but I truly can’t because it’s too strong. I love you, Finn Hart. I have loved you for a while, but I have been too scared to even admit it to myself. I love every part of you because you are you.”
“Thank you, Craig. For this talk and for being the father figure that I never had.”
This isn’t a specific quote but also just the way she showed Riley’s thoughts and always not thinking people liked her and thinking she wasn’t good enough was so realistic and it felt like me.
February 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️
I enjoyed this book so much! Ashley did an amazing job in writing an ambivert character. Where many authors focus on characters being either extroverted or introverted, Ashley shone a light on those who fall into both categories. Overall this read was like a warm hug. I found myself unable to put it down, having to know what happens to our MCs.
Riley is still healing from the loss of a loved one. Her emotions could be felt as real and raw as her character progressed throughout the story. Within wanting to remain strong, she does a lot of life on her own. She is healing, but it is a slow process. She is stronger than she knows, resilient, and persistent. I loved reading about her and Ashley wrote her in a very real way that was easy to relate to.
Finn is amazing! He is instantly taken by Riley and allows her to be her. He is determined to help Riley with her healing journey and show her that life is meant to be done with others. His patience with everyone, well almost everyone, was so sweet to read about. Finn is very attuned with Riley and doesn’t push her more than she is willing and gives her space when she needs it. Overall, a wonderful MMC that I loved almost instantly.
I loved how Ashley brings to light the hardships of life, but in a very comforting way. She doesn’t discount that hard things happen in life and allows people to know their healing journey is their own. There is no right way to heal and no time frame. Also reminding us that life isn’t meant to do alone and to lean on those people who can stand solid for you.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
Tropes:
🧱Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
🌺Contractor x Interior Designer
🧱He Falls First
🌺Only One Bed
🧱Anxiety Rep
🌺Closed Door
🧱Small Town Romance
🌺Found Family
I enjoyed this book so much! Ashley did an amazing job in writing an ambivert character. Where many authors focus on characters being either extroverted or introverted, Ashley shone a light on those who fall into both categories. Overall this read was like a warm hug. I found myself unable to put it down, having to know what happens to our MCs.
Riley is still healing from the loss of a loved one. Her emotions could be felt as real and raw as her character progressed throughout the story. Within wanting to remain strong, she does a lot of life on her own. She is healing, but it is a slow process. She is stronger than she knows, resilient, and persistent. I loved reading about her and Ashley wrote her in a very real way that was easy to relate to.
Finn is amazing! He is instantly taken by Riley and allows her to be her. He is determined to help Riley with her healing journey and show her that life is meant to be done with others. His patience with everyone, well almost everyone, was so sweet to read about. Finn is very attuned with Riley and doesn’t push her more than she is willing and gives her space when she needs it. Overall, a wonderful MMC that I loved almost instantly.
I loved how Ashley brings to light the hardships of life, but in a very comforting way. She doesn’t discount that hard things happen in life and allows people to know their healing journey is their own. There is no right way to heal and no time frame. Also reminding us that life isn’t meant to do alone and to lean on those people who can stand solid for you.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
Tropes:
🧱Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
🌺Contractor x Interior Designer
🧱He Falls First
🌺Only One Bed
🧱Anxiety Rep
🌺Closed Door
🧱Small Town Romance
🌺Found Family
January 30, 2025
I received an ARC of this book.
I'm so grateful you chose me as one of the few who got to read it before release!
First things first. This is a closed door clean romance. It honestly had me giddy and kicking my feet from the first 3 chapters.
There is plenty of growth and character development for both leads and the story was cute from the very first page.
The interior designer dream seems a bit overused nowadays, but it worked well for this particular story.
I did find some of the dialogue a little cheesy and cringey but that is just my personal opinion. There were few editing errors that I found but all in all this was a very well written story and I'm glad I got to be a part of it.
I LOVED that the MMC love interest wasn't a complete douche canoe, and was actually really understanding and sweet. Something we don't see in real life or even other romance novels. I never once found myself saying "Ugh really?? ..." Which happens a lot. In this case the story was perfect.
The story moved swiftly and smoothly. I read it in just over 24 hours and that's saying something. Though the book is shorter than I am used to, it usually takes me a few days to get into a new book then a few others to finish it. This I picked up whenever I had a spare moment. It was addicting.
Thanks again.
... Also , curious if there will be a Chloe- Mason book? Did anyone else catch that vibe?
Spice level 0/5
I'm so grateful you chose me as one of the few who got to read it before release!
First things first. This is a closed door clean romance. It honestly had me giddy and kicking my feet from the first 3 chapters.
There is plenty of growth and character development for both leads and the story was cute from the very first page.
The interior designer dream seems a bit overused nowadays, but it worked well for this particular story.
I did find some of the dialogue a little cheesy and cringey but that is just my personal opinion. There were few editing errors that I found but all in all this was a very well written story and I'm glad I got to be a part of it.
I LOVED that the MMC love interest wasn't a complete douche canoe, and was actually really understanding and sweet. Something we don't see in real life or even other romance novels. I never once found myself saying "Ugh really?? ..." Which happens a lot. In this case the story was perfect.
The story moved swiftly and smoothly. I read it in just over 24 hours and that's saying something. Though the book is shorter than I am used to, it usually takes me a few days to get into a new book then a few others to finish it. This I picked up whenever I had a spare moment. It was addicting.
Thanks again.
... Also , curious if there will be a Chloe- Mason book? Did anyone else catch that vibe?
Spice level 0/5
February 12, 2025
This is Me Trying ARC Review
i was very fortunate to receive an ARC of This is Me Trying by Ashley Vargas from SunnyBabePR, thank you so much!! 🩷
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
0/5
content warning: “parental death, off page. anxiety and on page panic attack. short scene with on page violence.”
“well, i know i told you about my dad, and the biggest thing that i’ve learned through all of that is that love is never supposed to be conditional. you love someone because of who they are, not who you want them to be. if they can’t do that, then… what was it you said about my dad? oh yeah, screw them.”
for this being a debut novel, ashley did not disappoint! this was such an adorable, fun, light read and i absolutely adored all of the characters! they were all so relatable and easy to fall in love with. i especially loved chloe, and hope we get to read her story in the future!! 👀 though it did take me a bit to really get into the book, once i did i gobbled it up!
riley and finn were such enjoyable characters to read about. their chemistry was through the roof and the banter between them was everything! their story is so sweet and i just loved the way finn goes above and beyond for riley! i loved how much they helped each other grow as individuals and brought out the best in each other. they were two broken people who worked on themselves to heal while also being there for each other in the process.
for a debut novel, ashley did such an amazing job. everything about this book was amazing and was so beautifully written! i’m so excited to see what she does next! once again thank you so much to sunnybabepr and ashley vargas for providing me with this arc 🩷
i was very fortunate to receive an ARC of This is Me Trying by Ashley Vargas from SunnyBabePR, thank you so much!! 🩷
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
0/5
content warning: “parental death, off page. anxiety and on page panic attack. short scene with on page violence.”
“well, i know i told you about my dad, and the biggest thing that i’ve learned through all of that is that love is never supposed to be conditional. you love someone because of who they are, not who you want them to be. if they can’t do that, then… what was it you said about my dad? oh yeah, screw them.”
for this being a debut novel, ashley did not disappoint! this was such an adorable, fun, light read and i absolutely adored all of the characters! they were all so relatable and easy to fall in love with. i especially loved chloe, and hope we get to read her story in the future!! 👀 though it did take me a bit to really get into the book, once i did i gobbled it up!
riley and finn were such enjoyable characters to read about. their chemistry was through the roof and the banter between them was everything! their story is so sweet and i just loved the way finn goes above and beyond for riley! i loved how much they helped each other grow as individuals and brought out the best in each other. they were two broken people who worked on themselves to heal while also being there for each other in the process.
for a debut novel, ashley did such an amazing job. everything about this book was amazing and was so beautifully written! i’m so excited to see what she does next! once again thank you so much to sunnybabepr and ashley vargas for providing me with this arc 🩷
February 24, 2025
This was such a lovely story, and I found myself resonating with so many little details throughout. The mental health representation was spot on—especially that feeling of wanting to hide in bed when life gets tough and the challenge of trusting others after trauma. Riley was written in such a real, raw way as she navigated her healing process, and I really connected with her journey.
And Finn—where do I even start? He’s basically a golden retriever in human form, the ultimate green flag! I loved him from start to finish. Both Riley and Finn had such hilarious one-liners, and even the miscommunication trope (which is usually not my favorite) was done so well here!
It took me a little while to get into the story, but once I did, I flew through it. The only reason it took a bit longer was mainly because I was getting out of a book slump but otherwise, I would have finished it so much faster!
For Ashley Vargas being a debut author, I’m genuinely impressed. I can’t wait to read more from her in the future!
Tropes:
-He falls first
-Closed door
-Reverse grumpy/sunshine
-Grief/anxiety rep
-Small town romance
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR and Ashley Vargas for the e-copy of this book!
And Finn—where do I even start? He’s basically a golden retriever in human form, the ultimate green flag! I loved him from start to finish. Both Riley and Finn had such hilarious one-liners, and even the miscommunication trope (which is usually not my favorite) was done so well here!
It took me a little while to get into the story, but once I did, I flew through it. The only reason it took a bit longer was mainly because I was getting out of a book slump but otherwise, I would have finished it so much faster!
For Ashley Vargas being a debut author, I’m genuinely impressed. I can’t wait to read more from her in the future!
Tropes:
-He falls first
-Closed door
-Reverse grumpy/sunshine
-Grief/anxiety rep
-Small town romance
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR and Ashley Vargas for the e-copy of this book!
February 18, 2025
This is Me Trying by Ashley Vargas is a close door romance and I love it!!
This is a small town romance with tropes like anxiety representation, reverse grumpy x sunshine, closed door, found family, he falls first and only one bed.
The book follows both Riley and Finn. Riley is an introvert who doesn't let any one get close to her. Not even her best friend Chloe. She keeps her head down and doesn't like confrontation. Finn is new in town . He is only there for a construction job. He is attractive and confident but is a disappointment for his family. He tries to not let it gnaw on his insecurities.
Omw this was such a cute story. It is a quick and short read, under 250p but it does have some difficult topics. Riley and Finn are such a cute couple and they are perfect for each other. I just can’t get enough of them. They bring out the best in each other and I love how they stand up for each other.
I hope we get a book for Chloe and Mason as well as one from Jackson. I really love this story and can’t wait to read more of the author’s books.
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and Ashley Vargas for sending me this book in exchange for my honest review.
This is a small town romance with tropes like anxiety representation, reverse grumpy x sunshine, closed door, found family, he falls first and only one bed.
The book follows both Riley and Finn. Riley is an introvert who doesn't let any one get close to her. Not even her best friend Chloe. She keeps her head down and doesn't like confrontation. Finn is new in town . He is only there for a construction job. He is attractive and confident but is a disappointment for his family. He tries to not let it gnaw on his insecurities.
Omw this was such a cute story. It is a quick and short read, under 250p but it does have some difficult topics. Riley and Finn are such a cute couple and they are perfect for each other. I just can’t get enough of them. They bring out the best in each other and I love how they stand up for each other.
I hope we get a book for Chloe and Mason as well as one from Jackson. I really love this story and can’t wait to read more of the author’s books.
Thank you Sunny Babe PR and Ashley Vargas for sending me this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 13, 2025
This is Me Trying is such a sweet, fast passed, small town romance with amazing banter and one liners between the characters.
I truly loved the dual POV and how it drove the story along into understanding where Finn and Riley at all times emotionally, and even making things like miscommunication feel natural.
Riley’s need to constantly run away when things are hard resonated with me a lot. And Finn is just the biggest green flag ever! Ashley Vargas did a good job with this cute read.
I wish we would have gotten more from them. The pacing moved along so fast and we had so much protagonism from the side characters that I feel it could have taken a bit from the story. It also had some odd conversations. But overall, I truly enjoyed this one.
Thank you SunnyBabePR and Ashley Vargas for my arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
If you are looking for a quick feel good read, this is the one for you. But just because it is a feel-good read doesn't mean that it doesn't have emotional turmoil and some serious family drama.
I truly loved the dual POV and how it drove the story along into understanding where Finn and Riley at all times emotionally, and even making things like miscommunication feel natural.
Riley’s need to constantly run away when things are hard resonated with me a lot. And Finn is just the biggest green flag ever! Ashley Vargas did a good job with this cute read.
I wish we would have gotten more from them. The pacing moved along so fast and we had so much protagonism from the side characters that I feel it could have taken a bit from the story. It also had some odd conversations. But overall, I truly enjoyed this one.
Thank you SunnyBabePR and Ashley Vargas for my arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
If you are looking for a quick feel good read, this is the one for you. But just because it is a feel-good read doesn't mean that it doesn't have emotional turmoil and some serious family drama.
February 21, 2025
Thank you, @sunnybabepr and Ashley Vargas for this ARC!
This is a solid small-town romance with quirky charm that I really enjoyed! This book earns a solid 4 stars for its engaging storyline and relatable MCs, Riley and Finn. The dialogue is sharp and witty, and the emotional depth explored, especially concerning Riley’s past, is genuinely touching. The supporting characters add color, and the small-town setting is vividly portrayed.
The romance between Riley and Finn is enchanting and heartwarming, brought to life by Vargas’ distinct and engaging writing. I especially enjoyed Finn’s character arc and his genuine care for Riley; he’s a perfect book boyfriend! Riley is so likable and you can’t help but root for her to break out of her introverted shell and find happiness! I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet and satisfying romance with a touch of drama.
If you like:
👩🏻❤️👨🏻 Small Town Romance
🌆 Only One Bed
🔨 He Falls First
👩🏻❤️👨🏻 Found Family
🌆 Anxiety Rep
🔨 Closed Door
…Then this is a book for you!!
This is a solid small-town romance with quirky charm that I really enjoyed! This book earns a solid 4 stars for its engaging storyline and relatable MCs, Riley and Finn. The dialogue is sharp and witty, and the emotional depth explored, especially concerning Riley’s past, is genuinely touching. The supporting characters add color, and the small-town setting is vividly portrayed.
The romance between Riley and Finn is enchanting and heartwarming, brought to life by Vargas’ distinct and engaging writing. I especially enjoyed Finn’s character arc and his genuine care for Riley; he’s a perfect book boyfriend! Riley is so likable and you can’t help but root for her to break out of her introverted shell and find happiness! I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet and satisfying romance with a touch of drama.
If you like:
👩🏻❤️👨🏻 Small Town Romance
🌆 Only One Bed
🔨 He Falls First
👩🏻❤️👨🏻 Found Family
🌆 Anxiety Rep
🔨 Closed Door
…Then this is a book for you!!
February 6, 2025
This is Me Trying was such a cozy read! I enjoy small-town romances, but what set this one apart for me was Finn- easily one of the sweetest, most understanding MMCs I’ve read in a long time. He’s patient, kind, and genuinely respects Riley’s boundaries while still showing her how much he cares. It’s so refreshing to see a love interest who isn’t brooding or toxic, but is supportive and uplifts the FMC in such thoughtful ways.
I related so much to Riley- her insecurities and struggles felt real and raw which made her path to learning to trust and opening up incredibly rewarding to read. The way Finn patiently earned her trust rather than demanding it made their romance feel natural.
The pacing was smooth and engaging, and while the story itself was fairly light and comforting, it gave the characters room to grow. The moments of cheesy dialogue added to the sweet and cozy vibe of the book while the humor had me laughing out loud.
This was a really solid debut and I’m excited to see what Ashley Vargas writes next! This is Me Trying is definitely worth picking up!
I related so much to Riley- her insecurities and struggles felt real and raw which made her path to learning to trust and opening up incredibly rewarding to read. The way Finn patiently earned her trust rather than demanding it made their romance feel natural.
The pacing was smooth and engaging, and while the story itself was fairly light and comforting, it gave the characters room to grow. The moments of cheesy dialogue added to the sweet and cozy vibe of the book while the humor had me laughing out loud.
This was a really solid debut and I’m excited to see what Ashley Vargas writes next! This is Me Trying is definitely worth picking up!
February 20, 2025
ARC Review ✨️
♡Riley & Finn♡
Riley is so incredibly relatable! She's an introvert and keeps her heart under lock and key 🔐 All she has ever known to do is play it safe, one day she decides to step out of her box and that's when she meets Finn.
Finn is a newbie to town and a highly successful contractor. When he decides to stop for coffee one day at the cutest little café, that's when he sets his eyes on Riley. 💞✨️
What an amazingly written romance🙌 Finn was such a sweetheart! The way he was always so supportive of Riley and loved her despite her flaws is the purest form of love there is. He's definitely what dreams are made of😍💞 I also really enjoyed Riley's best friend! I love it when you can connect with a side character just as much as a main one.
Tropes:
💞He falls first
💞Anxiety rep
💞Closed door
💞Small town
💞Reverse grumpy x sunshine
Thanks so much to the author and Sunnybabe PR for the ARC!
♡Riley & Finn♡
Riley is so incredibly relatable! She's an introvert and keeps her heart under lock and key 🔐 All she has ever known to do is play it safe, one day she decides to step out of her box and that's when she meets Finn.
Finn is a newbie to town and a highly successful contractor. When he decides to stop for coffee one day at the cutest little café, that's when he sets his eyes on Riley. 💞✨️
What an amazingly written romance🙌 Finn was such a sweetheart! The way he was always so supportive of Riley and loved her despite her flaws is the purest form of love there is. He's definitely what dreams are made of😍💞 I also really enjoyed Riley's best friend! I love it when you can connect with a side character just as much as a main one.
Tropes:
💞He falls first
💞Anxiety rep
💞Closed door
💞Small town
💞Reverse grumpy x sunshine
Thanks so much to the author and Sunnybabe PR for the ARC!
February 20, 2025
"This Is Me Trying" by Ashley Vargas is a heartwarming, feel-good read that left me smiling from start to finish.
✦ Riley Fields – the introverted, anxious protagonist – is incredibly relatable. Who hasn’t felt stuck in a rut before? Her struggles with anxiety are portrayed with honesty, making her journey feel raw and real.
✦ Finn Hart – the perfect book boyfriend. Charming, confident, and endlessly patient. His warmth and understanding help Riley break down her walls, and their slow-burn romance is nothing short of captivating.
✦ The writing is lighthearted and engaging, though it could have been stronger in some areas. The pacing felt rushed at times, making certain emotional moments feel less impactful than they could have been. While the story is charming, a little more refinement in the writing would have elevated it even further.
✦ Riley Fields – the introverted, anxious protagonist – is incredibly relatable. Who hasn’t felt stuck in a rut before? Her struggles with anxiety are portrayed with honesty, making her journey feel raw and real.
✦ Finn Hart – the perfect book boyfriend. Charming, confident, and endlessly patient. His warmth and understanding help Riley break down her walls, and their slow-burn romance is nothing short of captivating.
✦ The writing is lighthearted and engaging, though it could have been stronger in some areas. The pacing felt rushed at times, making certain emotional moments feel less impactful than they could have been. While the story is charming, a little more refinement in the writing would have elevated it even further.
February 18, 2025
⭐️'s: 4/5
🌶's: 0/5
Thank you so much to Ashley Vargas and Sunny Babe PR and Ashley Vargas for allowing me to read this amazing book in advance! This book was so easy to read, it's easy to empathize with Riley. She's been through so much grief and loss, her feelings are raw! You can comprehend why she acts that way toward new people. On the other side, Finn was a dream!! He never gave up trying to make her feel good around him, by being constant he was able to break her icy walls and work his way to her heart.
My Favorite quotes:
🌶's: 0/5
Thank you so much to Ashley Vargas and Sunny Babe PR and Ashley Vargas for allowing me to read this amazing book in advance! This book was so easy to read, it's easy to empathize with Riley. She's been through so much grief and loss, her feelings are raw! You can comprehend why she acts that way toward new people. On the other side, Finn was a dream!! He never gave up trying to make her feel good around him, by being constant he was able to break her icy walls and work his way to her heart.
My Favorite quotes:
- “If you don’t try you already failed. No one is going to do it for you. You can choose the safe route, like most people, or you can take that leap of faith and believe in yourself.”
- “No, Riley, you don’t look like Snape. You look hot.”
February 12, 2025
ARC Review: 4.5/5
I loved both Riley and Finn; was totally able to understand why riley is the way she is. And Finn!! He was a walking green forest; that green that at some point I was finding him too good to be true. But guess when destiny provides you with something or someone who is good for you, you should embrace them with all your heart; and that's what Riley did when she realised it. Finn takes care of Riley because he knew from day 1 that he wanted her, but Riley healed through Finn to let Finn inside her heart and mind.
Reader request: Next sequel about Chloe plssss
Spice level: 1/5
Thank you @sunnybabepr for providing me with this copy.
I loved both Riley and Finn; was totally able to understand why riley is the way she is. And Finn!! He was a walking green forest; that green that at some point I was finding him too good to be true. But guess when destiny provides you with something or someone who is good for you, you should embrace them with all your heart; and that's what Riley did when she realised it. Finn takes care of Riley because he knew from day 1 that he wanted her, but Riley healed through Finn to let Finn inside her heart and mind.
Reader request: Next sequel about Chloe plssss
Spice level: 1/5
Thank you @sunnybabepr for providing me with this copy.
February 14, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, this book triggered so much emotion in me through my relation to Riley as a character, her emotions and how she feels on herself related greatly to my own. I loved watching the relationship develop between Finn & Riley, I love that we started very slowly to build the relationship from sort of friends to essentially soulmates. I love how much Finn supported Riley and helped her pursue her dreams and I loved that there was so much growth in her character as she realised her true worth. I would love to explore Evergreen more and possibly see Jackson or Mason get their own tales.
February 16, 2025
As an incredibly relatable character, Riley is trying to pick up the pieces of her life and very hesitantly put herself out there. Working a full time job at the local hardware store of Evergreen Ridge, she is afraid to let her passion of design creep its way into reality. Just when she decides to push forward, she meets a handsome stranger in the local coffee shop. What will happen when “out of towner” Finn makes this small town his next job site?
I thought this was such a cute read! Both of the characters were well written and certainly relatable. It’s refreshing to see a character who is struggling with anxiety written so well.
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR for this ARC!
I thought this was such a cute read! Both of the characters were well written and certainly relatable. It’s refreshing to see a character who is struggling with anxiety written so well.
Thank you to Sunny Babe PR for this ARC!
February 16, 2025
This book was an easy read. The one liners and comic relief in the book will keep you laughing throughout.
A cute small town romance where he falls first. Finn, our MMC has the patience of a saint. He stuck by our MFC Riley and showed her he was no going anyway. The book was well written. Ashley Vargas did an amazing job incorporating anxiety into the story. The way she wrote about Riley's struggles with past trauma and anxiety, hits the nail on the head of how a lot of us deal with struggles. It can be hard to trust people again and to not feel like shutting out the world. Riley's best friend Chloe is the written definition of a true friend.
A cute small town romance where he falls first. Finn, our MMC has the patience of a saint. He stuck by our MFC Riley and showed her he was no going anyway. The book was well written. Ashley Vargas did an amazing job incorporating anxiety into the story. The way she wrote about Riley's struggles with past trauma and anxiety, hits the nail on the head of how a lot of us deal with struggles. It can be hard to trust people again and to not feel like shutting out the world. Riley's best friend Chloe is the written definition of a true friend.
February 19, 2025
This is a cute fast paced, small town romance with characters you can relate to. Riley is sooo relatable when it comes to her anxiety and the inner workings of her mind when going through day to day life. It’s nice to be able to put words to the feelings that I’m betting most of us have/had. The MMC Finn is very patient with her and protects her in every sense(and is a total hunk btw). The banter between the two is so funny and I will definitely be using some of it on my husband lol. Some tropes you’ll find in this book are found family, dual pov, family issues & anxiety rep. Even the side characters have their own cute/funny moments and I can’t wait to see more from this series!
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