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Hart County #1
Starcrossed Colorado
He's the biggest grump who ever grumped. But when danger comes, he's my fiercest protector.
When I decided to spend my summer in Silver Ridge, Colorado, I was looking for a new beginning. Until he dashed my hopeful bubble.
I’m the new music teacher who just signed a lease to share his building. He's a martial arts instructor. An ex-Army grouch who wants me gone. Yet when Ashford's with his daughter, I see a whole new side of him that draws me in. Not to mention his tight T-shirts and all those muscles.
Then trouble comes, and Ashford takes me in when I need him most. But he has darkness in his past. Secrets that could tear our new, fragile connection apart. Getting close to Ashford means digging up truths that some in Silver Ridge would kill to keep hidden.
And now, a killer has his sights set on me .
In this small town romance, you'll find adorable antics from a six-year-old and her golden retriever, plus heart-racing romantic suspense and a smart, strong heroine. If you like a gruff, protective hero who'll do anything to keep her safe (and make her smile), then get ready for Ashford O'Neal!
✔ Single Dad/Babysitter
✔ Ex-Military Hero
✔ Grumpy/Sunshine
✔ Age Gap
✔ Dislike to Love
✔ Forced Proximity
✔ Slow Burn
✔ Spice!
When I decided to spend my summer in Silver Ridge, Colorado, I was looking for a new beginning. Until he dashed my hopeful bubble.
I’m the new music teacher who just signed a lease to share his building. He's a martial arts instructor. An ex-Army grouch who wants me gone. Yet when Ashford's with his daughter, I see a whole new side of him that draws me in. Not to mention his tight T-shirts and all those muscles.
Then trouble comes, and Ashford takes me in when I need him most. But he has darkness in his past. Secrets that could tear our new, fragile connection apart. Getting close to Ashford means digging up truths that some in Silver Ridge would kill to keep hidden.
And now, a killer has his sights set on me .
In this small town romance, you'll find adorable antics from a six-year-old and her golden retriever, plus heart-racing romantic suspense and a smart, strong heroine. If you like a gruff, protective hero who'll do anything to keep her safe (and make her smile), then get ready for Ashford O'Neal!
✔ Single Dad/Babysitter
✔ Ex-Military Hero
✔ Grumpy/Sunshine
✔ Age Gap
✔ Dislike to Love
✔ Forced Proximity
✔ Slow Burn
✔ Spice!
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2025
1656 people are currently reading
1354 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Shield
30 books361 followersI write suspenseful romance with pulse-pounding danger, fun & flirty banter, and tons of heart (plus spice!). Both a Californian and a Texan in my past, I now live in the Colorado mountains with my family.
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February 23, 2025Hmm, I'm not sure how I feel about this book.
Anyway, the first 30% or so was Ashford (34) being an ass to Emma (23) because, first and foremost, they were going to share his commercial lease. Not that he had any say in the matter; that was his landlord's decision. Second, he was attracted to her but didn't know how to deal with it. He's not grumpy; he's just a jerk. Why men act like this is sooo beyond me.
And, Emma was meant to be this bright and cheerful fmc, and in some ways, she really is. I just wasn't a fan of how she came off as a pushover, just letting Ashford treat her poorly and be fine with it.
Then the sudden 180 in their relationship felt like it came out of nowhere. While I know that they're going to end up together, this is their story after all. I just didn't like that it happened because he felt jealous when a guy tried to hit on her. He said he was fighting his attraction, but when another man tried to swoop in, he lost his shit and voila, a sudden change in their dynamic.
Also, I know that this is a romantic suspense, but I didn't know or expect for the mystery to revolve around his late wife's passing. Her death became the sort of topic in the second half, and tbh, Idk how to wrap my head around it. Although Ashford and his late wife were only platonic, there are just too many reminders of her in the story. And I really, really don't like a dead lover trope in my book.
Emma's dream is most likely my last issue. She wanted to finish her master's degree in music education, but she got caught up in a scandal with her married professor. She had no idea he was married, but the school sided with the jerk, forcing her to drop her class. So, she moved away for a while to plan and eventually apply to a new school. But apparently staying for two months (I think) made her realize that her dreams had changed.
I know that aspirations can change, but she seems hellbent on finishing her master's in the first half. But she did a 180 and decided to stay with the MMC and his kid and teach music to children instead. She even declined an offer to be an intern to a well-known music coach because, like I said, her dreams have changed. Not a fan of this turn of events, honestly; maybe it's me being a career-oriented woman that's why I want my FMCs to go after what they want and make something of themselves. Not that teaching is a bad thing; it's just that her plans and dreams were so grand in the beginning (even I was rooting for her), and now this. Obviously, this is a me problem, and other readers might be fine with it.
Overall, idk how to feel about this. I guess, not bad not good.
Book info:
- Small town
- Strangers to lovers
- Grumpy (asshole) x Sunshine
- Age gap (11)
- Single dad
- Suspense
- Loss of loved one
- Attempted murder
- Stalking
- Suspense
- No cheating
- No V
- OM/OW, Separation (3 days)
- HFN (6 mos later, engaged)
Notes:
- OM. Emma went to a bar after Ashford admitted that kissing her was a mistake. She was hit on by a man, and she sat at their table. They talked but at the end of the night she went home alone. At some point, she finally saw Ashford at the bar talking to the OW.
- OW. He also went to the bar, but he had no idea she was there at first. He saw everything, the OM and Emma flirting. He was fuming while watching her (his fault). Then, a woman came to his table and ask for a seat. He thought she was asking for a chair so he nodded, but she sat at his table and tried to hit on him. He didn't want to be a jerk by telling her to go away. And they ended up talking, but most of it is about Emma and how he messed things up.
- Celibacy. He's been celibate for years (maybe 4 or 5 even while married I think). He and his bff had a ONS and she got pregnant, but they were platonic and have separate rooms. As for Emma, I think it has been only a year.
Anyway, the first 30% or so was Ashford (34) being an ass to Emma (23) because, first and foremost, they were going to share his commercial lease. Not that he had any say in the matter; that was his landlord's decision. Second, he was attracted to her but didn't know how to deal with it. He's not grumpy; he's just a jerk. Why men act like this is sooo beyond me.
And, Emma was meant to be this bright and cheerful fmc, and in some ways, she really is. I just wasn't a fan of how she came off as a pushover, just letting Ashford treat her poorly and be fine with it.
Then the sudden 180 in their relationship felt like it came out of nowhere. While I know that they're going to end up together, this is their story after all. I just didn't like that it happened because he felt jealous when a guy tried to hit on her. He said he was fighting his attraction, but when another man tried to swoop in, he lost his shit and voila, a sudden change in their dynamic.
Also, I know that this is a romantic suspense, but I didn't know or expect for the mystery to revolve around his late wife's passing. Her death became the sort of topic in the second half, and tbh, Idk how to wrap my head around it. Although Ashford and his late wife were only platonic, there are just too many reminders of her in the story. And I really, really don't like a dead lover trope in my book.
Emma's dream is most likely my last issue. She wanted to finish her master's degree in music education, but she got caught up in a scandal with her married professor. She had no idea he was married, but the school sided with the jerk, forcing her to drop her class. So, she moved away for a while to plan and eventually apply to a new school. But apparently staying for two months (I think) made her realize that her dreams had changed.
I know that aspirations can change, but she seems hellbent on finishing her master's in the first half. But she did a 180 and decided to stay with the MMC and his kid and teach music to children instead. She even declined an offer to be an intern to a well-known music coach because, like I said, her dreams have changed. Not a fan of this turn of events, honestly; maybe it's me being a career-oriented woman that's why I want my FMCs to go after what they want and make something of themselves. Not that teaching is a bad thing; it's just that her plans and dreams were so grand in the beginning (even I was rooting for her), and now this. Obviously, this is a me problem, and other readers might be fine with it.
Overall, idk how to feel about this. I guess, not bad not good.
Book info:
- Small town
- Strangers to lovers
- Grumpy (asshole) x Sunshine
- Age gap (11)
- Single dad
- Suspense
- Loss of loved one
- Attempted murder
- Stalking
- Suspense
- No cheating
- No V
- OM/OW, Separation (3 days)
- HFN (6 mos later, engaged)
Notes:
- OM. Emma went to a bar after Ashford admitted that kissing her was a mistake. She was hit on by a man, and she sat at their table. They talked but at the end of the night she went home alone. At some point, she finally saw Ashford at the bar talking to the OW.
- OW. He also went to the bar, but he had no idea she was there at first. He saw everything, the OM and Emma flirting. He was fuming while watching her (his fault). Then, a woman came to his table and ask for a seat. He thought she was asking for a chair so he nodded, but she sat at his table and tried to hit on him. He didn't want to be a jerk by telling her to go away. And they ended up talking, but most of it is about Emma and how he messed things up.
- Celibacy. He's been celibate for years (maybe 4 or 5 even while married I think). He and his bff had a ONS and she got pregnant, but they were platonic and have separate rooms. As for Emma, I think it has been only a year.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2025
Starcrossed Colorado by Hannah Shield
4/5⭐
2/5🌶️
"Loving Emma was a different kind of happiness. She'd stitched together he broody, rough-hewn parts of me into a whole person. A whole man."
I've always had a soft spot for romantic suspense, and this book delivered! The suspense was thrilling and kept me on the edge of my seat. The romance was both sweet and passionate, and I just loved the chemistry between the main characters. The friendships and sibling banter added a nice touch of warmth and entertainment.
Ashford is a grumpy, broody ex-military guy who is now a martial arts instructor. He lost his wife three years ago, and even though their relationship wasn't romantic, her passing hit him hard. Since then, he's thrown himself into raising his daughter, Maisie, and avoiding any romantic relationships. But underneath that tough exterior, he genuinely cares for his siblings and friends, plus he’s an amazing dad to Maisie.
Emma, who comes to Silver Ridge is looking for a fresh start. She opens a music class and ends up sharing a building with Ashford. At first, he’s a bit rude and not thrilled about it. Unlike him, his daughter, Maisie, takes an instant liking to Emma. I adored watching Ashford slowly fall for Emma as he got to know her better. The way he becomes protective of her is just swoon-worthy, and it warmed my heart to see him open up to her. Emma’s such a bright, bubbly person—she is the type of person who could befriend anyone! It was wonderful to see how much she cares about Maisie and how their bond deepens throughout the story.
The buildup to the suspense was so well crafted, and I was genuinely shocked when the villain was revealed. The side characters were delightful, too! I'm looking forward to diving into the next book in the series and seeing each character get their happily ever after!
4/5⭐
2/5🌶️
"Loving Emma was a different kind of happiness. She'd stitched together he broody, rough-hewn parts of me into a whole person. A whole man."
I've always had a soft spot for romantic suspense, and this book delivered! The suspense was thrilling and kept me on the edge of my seat. The romance was both sweet and passionate, and I just loved the chemistry between the main characters. The friendships and sibling banter added a nice touch of warmth and entertainment.
Ashford is a grumpy, broody ex-military guy who is now a martial arts instructor. He lost his wife three years ago, and even though their relationship wasn't romantic, her passing hit him hard. Since then, he's thrown himself into raising his daughter, Maisie, and avoiding any romantic relationships. But underneath that tough exterior, he genuinely cares for his siblings and friends, plus he’s an amazing dad to Maisie.
Emma, who comes to Silver Ridge is looking for a fresh start. She opens a music class and ends up sharing a building with Ashford. At first, he’s a bit rude and not thrilled about it. Unlike him, his daughter, Maisie, takes an instant liking to Emma. I adored watching Ashford slowly fall for Emma as he got to know her better. The way he becomes protective of her is just swoon-worthy, and it warmed my heart to see him open up to her. Emma’s such a bright, bubbly person—she is the type of person who could befriend anyone! It was wonderful to see how much she cares about Maisie and how their bond deepens throughout the story.
The buildup to the suspense was so well crafted, and I was genuinely shocked when the villain was revealed. The side characters were delightful, too! I'm looking forward to diving into the next book in the series and seeing each character get their happily ever after!
February 26, 2025
Sweet small town love story. 🩷
The MFC 👩 is a musician straight out of a relationship where she found out that her ex was married. She goes on a summer break to a small town to give private music classes to kids and thus escape her cruel reality.
The MMC 🧔♂️ is a single dad who lost his wife, she was actually his best friend and a one night together got her pregnant and then they decided to get married. It was a loveless marriage but still losing her to a possible murder has been harsh on both him and his daughter.
The book 📖 evolves about growing as individuals, overcoming their traumatised pasts and the addition of new family members, the deceased wife's sister who is a superstar, in addition to solving the mystery of the wife's death (she was having an affair at the time with the possible murderer).
🙅♀️ I didn’t care much about the MFC. I don't feel like she added anything to the story.
👍 I loved how grumpy the MMC was to the MFC and to everyone basically. He was a total asshole.
👵 The senior neighbour was foul mouthed and too liberal to be a grandma of 70 years of age. (I don't get today's authors and their obsession with writing about filthy minded and foul mouthed grandmas 🤷♀️) Definitely, NOT my cup of tea. ☕️
🤦♀️ Also, the author makes some stupid decisions of inserting the MFC in situations that got me slapping my forehead a time or two.
The book was ok but I am in love with the MMCs sister who is the MFC in Book 2. I'll be keeping an eye out for that one 🥰.
📝 ticking another Bingo square
95) "Title starts with a S"
Squares Count: 30
25┃🔴┃87┃13┃68┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃76┃44
🔴┃86┃04┃45┃47┃98┃50┃🔴┃85┃75
88┃51┃🔴┃02┃42┃🔴┃24┃92┃82┃01
100┃🔴┃17┃96┃43┃49┃64┃70┃15┃38
🔴┃🔴┃62┃🔴┃21┃73┃28┃🔴┃90┃77
03┃12┃80┃69┃52┃🔴┃54┃🔴┃23┃🔴
18┃🔴┃22┃🔴┃93┃🔴┃🔴┃08┃🔴┃58
57┃94┃16┃56┃05┃🔴┃🔴┃26┃81┃🔴
🔴┃48┃79┃67┃53┃🔴┃06┃🔴┃89┃🔴
🔴┃19┃🔴┃66┃55┃27┃20┃63┃11┃83
The MFC 👩 is a musician straight out of a relationship where she found out that her ex was married. She goes on a summer break to a small town to give private music classes to kids and thus escape her cruel reality.
The MMC 🧔♂️ is a single dad who lost his wife, she was actually his best friend and a one night together got her pregnant and then they decided to get married. It was a loveless marriage but still losing her to a possible murder has been harsh on both him and his daughter.
The book 📖 evolves about growing as individuals, overcoming their traumatised pasts and the addition of new family members, the deceased wife's sister who is a superstar, in addition to solving the mystery of the wife's death (she was having an affair at the time with the possible murderer).
🙅♀️ I didn’t care much about the MFC. I don't feel like she added anything to the story.
👍 I loved how grumpy the MMC was to the MFC and to everyone basically. He was a total asshole.
👵 The senior neighbour was foul mouthed and too liberal to be a grandma of 70 years of age. (I don't get today's authors and their obsession with writing about filthy minded and foul mouthed grandmas 🤷♀️) Definitely, NOT my cup of tea. ☕️
🤦♀️ Also, the author makes some stupid decisions of inserting the MFC in situations that got me slapping my forehead a time or two.
The book was ok but I am in love with the MMCs sister who is the MFC in Book 2. I'll be keeping an eye out for that one 🥰.
📝 ticking another Bingo square
95) "Title starts with a S"
Squares Count: 30
25┃🔴┃87┃13┃68┃🔴┃🔴┃🔴┃76┃44
🔴┃86┃04┃45┃47┃98┃50┃🔴┃85┃75
88┃51┃🔴┃02┃42┃🔴┃24┃92┃82┃01
100┃🔴┃17┃96┃43┃49┃64┃70┃15┃38
🔴┃🔴┃62┃🔴┃21┃73┃28┃🔴┃90┃77
03┃12┃80┃69┃52┃🔴┃54┃🔴┃23┃🔴
18┃🔴┃22┃🔴┃93┃🔴┃🔴┃08┃🔴┃58
57┃94┃16┃56┃05┃🔴┃🔴┃26┃81┃🔴
🔴┃48┃79┃67┃53┃🔴┃06┃🔴┃89┃🔴
🔴┃19┃🔴┃66┃55┃27┃20┃63┃11┃83
February 1, 2025
✨️ARC Read
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶.5
HEA:🌟🌟🌟/3
❗️Safety and Small Spoilers Below❗️
📌 Notes: This was the cutest little single-parent romance with a murder mystery twist. I think it's the perfect palate cleanser for when you're in a small-town mood.
📌 Triggers: Violence (on-page) Loss of a Loved-One/Parent (off-page; Flashback) Infidelity (off-page; Not between MCs) Child Abuse (off-page; Mentioned)
📌 No Cheating/Sharing
📌 No OWD: MMC has a child with his best friend after an ONS. They both realize that they don't romantically love each other. However, they both agree to get married so that their child can have a stable relationship. Their marriage is platonic, they even sleep in separate beds.
📌 No OMD: FMC had a fling with her music director and later found out he was married. This was a year before meeting MMC and the director never made a comeback. However, the cheating scandal does cause some drama.
📌 No Third-act Breakup
📌 2 Day separation due to storyline drama
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶🌶.5
HEA:🌟🌟🌟/3
❗️Safety and Small Spoilers Below❗️
📌 Notes: This was the cutest little single-parent romance with a murder mystery twist. I think it's the perfect palate cleanser for when you're in a small-town mood.
📌 Triggers: Violence (on-page) Loss of a Loved-One/Parent (off-page; Flashback) Infidelity (off-page; Not between MCs) Child Abuse (off-page; Mentioned)
📌 No Cheating/Sharing
📌 No OWD: MMC has a child with his best friend after an ONS. They both realize that they don't romantically love each other. However, they both agree to get married so that their child can have a stable relationship. Their marriage is platonic, they even sleep in separate beds.
📌 No OMD: FMC had a fling with her music director and later found out he was married. This was a year before meeting MMC and the director never made a comeback. However, the cheating scandal does cause some drama.
📌 No Third-act Breakup
📌 2 Day separation due to storyline drama
May 22, 2025
4 Emma and Ashford Stars
I discovered Hannah Shield's work last year and she has become a favourite author of mine , so I was very excited to start a new series by her. It has lots of the things I love in a romance and sets the scene well for world building in Hart County.
Ashford (36) is an ex military single dad to Maisie (6). Maisie's mother , Lori, died three years earlier. She and Ashford had been best friends and a one time only drunken night of blurring those lines , lead to Maisie. Theirs was not a romantic relationship and although they lived together to co parent, they lived separate lives for the most part. I am always a bit wary of the dead exes trope because I always wonder if they had not died , would the current love interest have ever happened? Would the new love always be compared to the old one? In this case , I did not feel uneasy with it. Ashford obviously cared for his ex and respected her as the mother of their daughter but Emma is the absolute owner of this rugged, gruff hero's heart.
Emma (23) is a lovely heroine. She is running from a situation that blindsided her and sees Hart County as a temporary place to stay a while until returning to the city , but as she makes friends and a new life and falls for Ashford (and Maisie) , she finds the thought of leaving harder to bear.
Fabulous secondary characters give this book more depth and bring a real small town warmth to the pages. I loved Piper who is one of Ashford's best friends too. There is a group of singles in town and they call themselves the 'Lonely Hart's Club' after their hometown.
There is some violence and tense drama plus lots of passion that plays out between this Grumpy / Sunshine hero and heroine.
I am jumping straight into Book 2, Moonlit Colorado which is about a different couple.
If you are interested in book worlds that cross over, Emma is the daughter of Nash , the hero from The Five Minute Mistake , which is Book 2 in the West Oaks Series by Hannah Shield. Emma's Uncle Aiden also makes an appearance and he and his wife Jessi are the lead characters from Hard Knock Hero .
Finally - just to say how much I loved Stella , Emma's dog. Absolutely adorable.
I borrowed this novel on Kindle Unlimited. It is 373 pages long.
HEA? Yes with a gorgeous epilogue moving 6 months ahead.
Cheating? No
I discovered Hannah Shield's work last year and she has become a favourite author of mine , so I was very excited to start a new series by her. It has lots of the things I love in a romance and sets the scene well for world building in Hart County.
Ashford (36) is an ex military single dad to Maisie (6). Maisie's mother , Lori, died three years earlier. She and Ashford had been best friends and a one time only drunken night of blurring those lines , lead to Maisie. Theirs was not a romantic relationship and although they lived together to co parent, they lived separate lives for the most part. I am always a bit wary of the dead exes trope because I always wonder if they had not died , would the current love interest have ever happened? Would the new love always be compared to the old one? In this case , I did not feel uneasy with it. Ashford obviously cared for his ex and respected her as the mother of their daughter but Emma is the absolute owner of this rugged, gruff hero's heart.
Emma (23) is a lovely heroine. She is running from a situation that blindsided her and sees Hart County as a temporary place to stay a while until returning to the city , but as she makes friends and a new life and falls for Ashford (and Maisie) , she finds the thought of leaving harder to bear.
Fabulous secondary characters give this book more depth and bring a real small town warmth to the pages. I loved Piper who is one of Ashford's best friends too. There is a group of singles in town and they call themselves the 'Lonely Hart's Club' after their hometown.
There is some violence and tense drama plus lots of passion that plays out between this Grumpy / Sunshine hero and heroine.
I am jumping straight into Book 2, Moonlit Colorado which is about a different couple.
If you are interested in book worlds that cross over, Emma is the daughter of Nash , the hero from The Five Minute Mistake , which is Book 2 in the West Oaks Series by Hannah Shield. Emma's Uncle Aiden also makes an appearance and he and his wife Jessi are the lead characters from Hard Knock Hero .
Finally - just to say how much I loved Stella , Emma's dog. Absolutely adorable.
I borrowed this novel on Kindle Unlimited. It is 373 pages long.
HEA? Yes with a gorgeous epilogue moving 6 months ahead.
Cheating? No
November 24, 2025
This was......boring. Where has all the exciting, original writing gone? The KU graveyard?
January 13, 2025
Since I started with my kindle in May 2024, I have read 300 books. And this outranks them all. I do t have enough positive things to say about it.
The plot is realistic enough that you can imagine yourself as the characters and unrealistic enough to give you the excitement you get from a good read! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The plot is realistic enough that you can imagine yourself as the characters and unrealistic enough to give you the excitement you get from a good read! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2025
4⭐️
"You deserve the world. And the moon and the stars, too. LA seems full of those."
The second I saw this book as an ARC option, I just HAD to sign up.
A) I live in Colorado
B) I adore anything small town, found family, or single dad
And this book did not disappoint! I fell in love with Ashford as I watched him put his daughter, Maisie, before everything else. Honestly, everything about Maisie warmed my heart, but I digressed. As for the FMC, I sympathized with Emma and everything she was going through and admired her as she took the chance to start a music studio in a small town hundreds of miles away from home.
This slow burn between the two main characters was sooo well written! I can't even describe it- just perfect vibes.
The murder mystery aspect definitely caught me by surprise (I was thinking this was going to be a fluffy, cute small town), but I loved it nonetheless! I feel like it added a unique twist and kept be on my toes the whole time!
Ending this review with a few of my favorite quotes~
" Love was a risk. It could slip away so easily. Unless you fought for it."
"I want you to have everything. And I would love the chance to give that to you. I want you to stay here with me and Maisie and wake up every morning next to me. I want to share my training room with your music classes. Stay up late stargazing on the roof at night. Kiss you and make love to you until we're both exhausted, and then do it all again the next day. But only if you're sure that's enough for you. Because it would kill me if you settle for anything less than the happy ending you deserve."
She blinked at me. "I want everything too.
Everything with you. You're my happy ending." The tip of my nose nudged hers.
"Then stay."
“All you had to do was ask me."
"Emma, you and Maisie are both the brightest stars in my sky. You've brought so much beauty into our lives. Last summer, you agreed to stay. I'd like to make that permanent because I can't live without you. We can't."
“Can we keep you forever?" Maisie asked.
Hot tears gathered in my eyes, a contrast to the cold. "Yes."
Thank you so much Love Notes PR and Hannah Shield for an eARC in exchange for a honest review!
"You deserve the world. And the moon and the stars, too. LA seems full of those."
The second I saw this book as an ARC option, I just HAD to sign up.
A) I live in Colorado
B) I adore anything small town, found family, or single dad
And this book did not disappoint! I fell in love with Ashford as I watched him put his daughter, Maisie, before everything else. Honestly, everything about Maisie warmed my heart, but I digressed. As for the FMC, I sympathized with Emma and everything she was going through and admired her as she took the chance to start a music studio in a small town hundreds of miles away from home.
This slow burn between the two main characters was sooo well written! I can't even describe it- just perfect vibes.
The murder mystery aspect definitely caught me by surprise (I was thinking this was going to be a fluffy, cute small town), but I loved it nonetheless! I feel like it added a unique twist and kept be on my toes the whole time!
Ending this review with a few of my favorite quotes~
" Love was a risk. It could slip away so easily. Unless you fought for it."
"I want you to have everything. And I would love the chance to give that to you. I want you to stay here with me and Maisie and wake up every morning next to me. I want to share my training room with your music classes. Stay up late stargazing on the roof at night. Kiss you and make love to you until we're both exhausted, and then do it all again the next day. But only if you're sure that's enough for you. Because it would kill me if you settle for anything less than the happy ending you deserve."
She blinked at me. "I want everything too.
Everything with you. You're my happy ending." The tip of my nose nudged hers.
"Then stay."
“All you had to do was ask me."
"Emma, you and Maisie are both the brightest stars in my sky. You've brought so much beauty into our lives. Last summer, you agreed to stay. I'd like to make that permanent because I can't live without you. We can't."
“Can we keep you forever?" Maisie asked.
Hot tears gathered in my eyes, a contrast to the cold. "Yes."
Thank you so much Love Notes PR and Hannah Shield for an eARC in exchange for a honest review!
February 13, 2025
ARC Review
4⭐️
Emma moves to Silver Ridge for the summer in hopes of starting fresh. In the meantime, she would be teaching music lessons while figuring out her next move. She meets the man she would be sharing a work space with - enter Ashford O'Neal, a broody, single father who doesn't like change, especially when that change affected his daughter.
But Emma's arrival turned to be a blessing. She and Ashford grew closer, and falling for each other was as easy as breathing. But secrets they both were keeping are exposed, and Ashford will do everything to keep the people he loves safe.
Hannah is brilliant when it comes to unraveling this story. I absolutely love Emma and Ashford, as well as Ashford's sweet daughter, Maisie, who stole my heart from the very first chapter! This is a perfect small town romance that feels like the warmest of hugs. I am so eager to read more of her books, especially when it comes to this series❤️
4⭐️
Emma moves to Silver Ridge for the summer in hopes of starting fresh. In the meantime, she would be teaching music lessons while figuring out her next move. She meets the man she would be sharing a work space with - enter Ashford O'Neal, a broody, single father who doesn't like change, especially when that change affected his daughter.
But Emma's arrival turned to be a blessing. She and Ashford grew closer, and falling for each other was as easy as breathing. But secrets they both were keeping are exposed, and Ashford will do everything to keep the people he loves safe.
Hannah is brilliant when it comes to unraveling this story. I absolutely love Emma and Ashford, as well as Ashford's sweet daughter, Maisie, who stole my heart from the very first chapter! This is a perfect small town romance that feels like the warmest of hugs. I am so eager to read more of her books, especially when it comes to this series❤️
February 16, 2025
Usually I’m a little nervous about Single parent romances, but this one was too cute! I adored how sweet the characters were together and the twist was twisting.
The book does a good job of balancing individual dynamics with both of the main characters having growth that seemed realistic and necessary while also creating a sweet romance. My nosy self was obsessed and curious from the prologue. I had to see what was going on.
Part of why I don’t typically pick up single parent romances is that I feel like the child is always written in a way that I don’t find believable or cute,,,and this was not the case for a sweet Maisie I loved her and Stella to pieces. I also am also a sucker for small town romances where everybody helps each other, and my brain was trying to figure out who I would want to see a spinoff book of. Without giving too much away - the twist got me and the last third was definitely a lot more action packed than I expected as well. (IYKYK) I’m actually very excited to pick up the rest of the series and see what happens next in this charming town!
Martial Arts & Music for the win!💕
The book does a good job of balancing individual dynamics with both of the main characters having growth that seemed realistic and necessary while also creating a sweet romance. My nosy self was obsessed and curious from the prologue. I had to see what was going on.
Part of why I don’t typically pick up single parent romances is that I feel like the child is always written in a way that I don’t find believable or cute,,,and this was not the case for a sweet Maisie I loved her and Stella to pieces. I also am also a sucker for small town romances where everybody helps each other, and my brain was trying to figure out who I would want to see a spinoff book of. Without giving too much away - the twist got me and the last third was definitely a lot more action packed than I expected as well. (IYKYK) I’m actually very excited to pick up the rest of the series and see what happens next in this charming town!
Martial Arts & Music for the win!💕
February 14, 2025
Emma and Ashford’s relationship through this book was so enjoyable to read. Ashford’s grumpiness, older man personality against Emma’s bright and fun personality was the sparks through this book to keep this story going. Both, Emma and Ashford, slowly let those walls down and let each other in, both with their own demons they’ve held inside for so long. Story was such a realistic story that I was immediately immersed into it.
February 15, 2025
4.75 stars
I loved this book! The characters were great, so relatable. I fell in love with Emma, Ashford, Stella and Maisie! Many of the other characters too.
I wish I lived in this small town!
Single dad, grumpy sunshine, smart dog, what's not to love?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved this book! The characters were great, so relatable. I fell in love with Emma, Ashford, Stella and Maisie! Many of the other characters too.
I wish I lived in this small town!
Single dad, grumpy sunshine, smart dog, what's not to love?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2025
Tropes: grumpy x sunshine, small town, single dad, secrets and twists
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
OH. MY. GOD.
Starcrossed Colorado was amazing. Silver Ridge is the cutest small mountain town and their residents are all precious. The suspense of it all was delicious- I truly thought the suspense was going to surround Emma and her ex, so when things pivoted to Ashford and his late wife I was floored. The spice was excellent and didn’t take over the plot of the book, which I’ve found is a hard balance to strike in these kinds of stories.
The way Hannah Shield was able to keep me engaged with every page was a delight, I didn’t want to put the book down but also didn’t want to get to the end! I truly enjoyed this book so very much and I’m so looking forward to Grace’s book, Moonlit Colorado!
Thank you to LoveNotes PR and Diana Road Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. ✨
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
OH. MY. GOD.
Starcrossed Colorado was amazing. Silver Ridge is the cutest small mountain town and their residents are all precious. The suspense of it all was delicious- I truly thought the suspense was going to surround Emma and her ex, so when things pivoted to Ashford and his late wife I was floored. The spice was excellent and didn’t take over the plot of the book, which I’ve found is a hard balance to strike in these kinds of stories.
The way Hannah Shield was able to keep me engaged with every page was a delight, I didn’t want to put the book down but also didn’t want to get to the end! I truly enjoyed this book so very much and I’m so looking forward to Grace’s book, Moonlit Colorado!
Thank you to LoveNotes PR and Diana Road Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. ✨
February 12, 2025
3.5 rounded up☺️
Loved all the tropes and suspense elements, it just felt a little slow for me at times🫤 I really liked Grace’s character and can’t wait read her story 💕
Loved all the tropes and suspense elements, it just felt a little slow for me at times🫤 I really liked Grace’s character and can’t wait read her story 💕
November 16, 2025
It's a super cute read. I loved the storyline, and the suspense was pretty good. I did not see the bad guy coming. The only reason it isn't getting a 5 star is because I'm comparing it to Catherine Cowles books, and they are just incomparable.
January 16, 2025
New series is off to a thrilling start!
A fantastic, fast-paced start to this talented author’s brand-new series! I immediately fell in love with broody, swoony Ashford and spunky Emma. It was so fun to see her all grown up from the first time we meet her in the West Oaks Heroes Series.
This author weaves a tight, page-turner of a tale that’s hard to put down. The twists kept me on the edge of my seat and caught me by surprise. It wrapped up nicely with a very satisfying HEA, making for a perfect all-around read. I’ve enjoyed all of this author's books, and this one did not disappoint.
I highly recommended Starcrossed Colorado (and any books by Hannah Shield!). It’s truly a must-read, and I can’t wait for more!
I received an advance copy from the author, and I am voluntarily leaving my own unbiased review.
A fantastic, fast-paced start to this talented author’s brand-new series! I immediately fell in love with broody, swoony Ashford and spunky Emma. It was so fun to see her all grown up from the first time we meet her in the West Oaks Heroes Series.
This author weaves a tight, page-turner of a tale that’s hard to put down. The twists kept me on the edge of my seat and caught me by surprise. It wrapped up nicely with a very satisfying HEA, making for a perfect all-around read. I’ve enjoyed all of this author's books, and this one did not disappoint.
I highly recommended Starcrossed Colorado (and any books by Hannah Shield!). It’s truly a must-read, and I can’t wait for more!
I received an advance copy from the author, and I am voluntarily leaving my own unbiased review.
February 3, 2025
I am so thankful to have received this ARC from Love Notes PR 💗!!! I so so so enjoyed this read. It was the most perfect small town romance with the right amount of suspense. I feel like this book was written for me since it contained all of my favorite tropes!!! I flew right through this book and fell in love with the setting and the characters. I NEED to read the next book set in this world. I want to live in this town.
February 12, 2025
A great start to a new series, new place, new friends, and some favorites from the past.
Ashford is a broody, set in his ways, loving father who does not like a portion of his business space being rented to the new music teacher. Emma has left California for Colorado, she needs something new for the summer, and teaching music to kids is her plan.
We get a hard to put down story of twists and turns, surprises and more. I expect nothing less from this author. Emma is a second generation, and we met a younger version of her in The West Oaks Heros series. I recommend this new series and any previous series by this author.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Ashford is a broody, set in his ways, loving father who does not like a portion of his business space being rented to the new music teacher. Emma has left California for Colorado, she needs something new for the summer, and teaching music to kids is her plan.
We get a hard to put down story of twists and turns, surprises and more. I expect nothing less from this author. Emma is a second generation, and we met a younger version of her in The West Oaks Heros series. I recommend this new series and any previous series by this author.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
July 15, 2025
“Because, as I stared into his eyes, what I felt was suddenly so clear. Even if I didn’t have the courage to say it.
I need you to love me, I thought. Because I’m in love with you.”
✔️romantic suspense
✔️small town
✔️single dad
✔️grumpy x sunshine
✔️age gap (she’s 23, he’s 34)
✔️dislike to love
✔️no 3rd act breakup
4.75⭐️ rounded up
I really enjoyed this book! Ashford (MMC) and Emma (FMC) have a rough start because Ashford is the town’s resident grump (seriously, he is grumpy to every single person except his daughter, not just the FMC). Emma is running away from her life and an ex who ruined her reputation by leaving out a vital piece of information before they started hooking up — he is married. Now, she just wants to spend a summer laying low and teaching music lessons in her new small town, but she has to share her commercial space lease with Ashford, the man she is attracted to but who is also completely off limits.
The romance and the suspense are woven together in a way that makes sense, and they are equally important to the story line. The identity of the villain took me by surprise (I figured it out a little bit before the reveal/before the characters figured it out, as soon as one of the side characters dropped a key piece of information). There was enough misdirection and possible suspects that I was hooked and needed to figure out who was really behind the death of Ashford’s wife (three years prior to the events of this book, you find out about it in the prologue). Speaking of Ashford’s wife, this isn’t a book where the MMC is still deeply grieving the loss and making the FMC compete with his past. Ashford and Lori were best friends, and their daughter was conceived during a one night stand. They got married out of obligation, but they did not have a romantic relationship. They were platonic, living together in separate bedrooms, and had an understanding that they could see other people as long as they didn’t get their daughter involved.
I enjoyed watching the MCs work out their differences and lower their guard with each other. Both have complicated pasts that bleed into their present, and circumstances aren’t the easiest but they found a way to make it work. They are just sweet together, and I love the way everything wrapped up for them. The teaser for the next book has me so excited to continue the series!
I need you to love me, I thought. Because I’m in love with you.”
✔️romantic suspense
✔️small town
✔️single dad
✔️grumpy x sunshine
✔️age gap (she’s 23, he’s 34)
✔️dislike to love
✔️no 3rd act breakup
4.75⭐️ rounded up
I really enjoyed this book! Ashford (MMC) and Emma (FMC) have a rough start because Ashford is the town’s resident grump (seriously, he is grumpy to every single person except his daughter, not just the FMC). Emma is running away from her life and an ex who ruined her reputation by leaving out a vital piece of information before they started hooking up — he is married. Now, she just wants to spend a summer laying low and teaching music lessons in her new small town, but she has to share her commercial space lease with Ashford, the man she is attracted to but who is also completely off limits.
The romance and the suspense are woven together in a way that makes sense, and they are equally important to the story line. The identity of the villain took me by surprise (I figured it out a little bit before the reveal/before the characters figured it out, as soon as one of the side characters dropped a key piece of information). There was enough misdirection and possible suspects that I was hooked and needed to figure out who was really behind the death of Ashford’s wife (three years prior to the events of this book, you find out about it in the prologue). Speaking of Ashford’s wife, this isn’t a book where the MMC is still deeply grieving the loss and making the FMC compete with his past. Ashford and Lori were best friends, and their daughter was conceived during a one night stand. They got married out of obligation, but they did not have a romantic relationship. They were platonic, living together in separate bedrooms, and had an understanding that they could see other people as long as they didn’t get their daughter involved.
I enjoyed watching the MCs work out their differences and lower their guard with each other. Both have complicated pasts that bleed into their present, and circumstances aren’t the easiest but they found a way to make it work. They are just sweet together, and I love the way everything wrapped up for them. The teaser for the next book has me so excited to continue the series!
February 12, 2025
Firstly thank you to Hannah Shield & Love Notes PR for this ARC ✨❤️
✨ 4.5/5
This was my first Hannah Shield book, I randomly came across it on IG and thought it sounded like it had lots of potential and I’m glad I found it when I did because it did not disappoint.
Emma Jennings was such a good fmc, very girl next door vibes whos running away from a scandal that really isn’t her fault (it’s always a man’s fault) I loved her sunny spirit & how she was exactly what Ashford & Maisie both needed. I love how she preserved through the scandal and realized it really wasn’t her fault and she shouldn’t take all this unnecessary blame.
Ashford O’Neal was exactly what he sounds like… a hot single dad ! He was kinda grumpy in the beginning but in the end Emma made sure he wasn’t grumpy anymore. I loved how protective he was of not only maisie but also Emma especially during the times when he wasn’t her biggest fan !!!
The dynamic between Maisie/Ashford & Emma and her dog were so cute they really felt like a little family VERY quick to me and I loved seeing their relationship progress from strangers—sometimes babysitter—roomies—family. This book has a suspense touch to it and honestly I ate it up, the entire time the suspense factor began I felt like when I watch a scary movie and I know something bad is going to happen and I have what feels like a pit in my stomach! The ending was SHOCKING ! When Emma (with the help of her dog) slowly started piecing everything together, still in the house with he who shall not be named with Maise downstairs my ANXIETY was through the roof ! Luckily Ashford saved the day and all was well, the epilogue with them getting engaged was very cute and I love how Maisie got to be apart of it as well.
Can’t wait for Grace’s story next!!!
Tropes:
— Grumpy/Sunshine
— Single Dad
— Small Town
— Age Gap
— Forced Proximity
✨ 4.5/5
This was my first Hannah Shield book, I randomly came across it on IG and thought it sounded like it had lots of potential and I’m glad I found it when I did because it did not disappoint.
Emma Jennings was such a good fmc, very girl next door vibes whos running away from a scandal that really isn’t her fault (it’s always a man’s fault) I loved her sunny spirit & how she was exactly what Ashford & Maisie both needed. I love how she preserved through the scandal and realized it really wasn’t her fault and she shouldn’t take all this unnecessary blame.
Ashford O’Neal was exactly what he sounds like… a hot single dad ! He was kinda grumpy in the beginning but in the end Emma made sure he wasn’t grumpy anymore. I loved how protective he was of not only maisie but also Emma especially during the times when he wasn’t her biggest fan !!!
The dynamic between Maisie/Ashford & Emma and her dog were so cute they really felt like a little family VERY quick to me and I loved seeing their relationship progress from strangers—sometimes babysitter—roomies—family. This book has a suspense touch to it and honestly I ate it up, the entire time the suspense factor began I felt like when I watch a scary movie and I know something bad is going to happen and I have what feels like a pit in my stomach! The ending was SHOCKING ! When Emma (with the help of her dog) slowly started piecing everything together, still in the house with he who shall not be named with Maise downstairs my ANXIETY was through the roof ! Luckily Ashford saved the day and all was well, the epilogue with them getting engaged was very cute and I love how Maisie got to be apart of it as well.
Can’t wait for Grace’s story next!!!
Tropes:
— Grumpy/Sunshine
— Single Dad
— Small Town
— Age Gap
— Forced Proximity
January 31, 2025
This was my first book by this author and that too an ARC I can say it that she didn't let me down♥️⭐
This book had me on edge I thought I knew the twist that was coming but when the plot twist arrived my jaw was on the floor I was not expecting it, the thriller part along with the romance, banter, found family, enemies to lovers, side characters made this book 5 ⭐ for me.
I loved Ashford and Emma and their relationship throughout the book, from their first meeting to the blur telescope(iykyk 😉) it was so cute and heart touching. We can't forget Maisie(Ash's daughter)and Stella(Stella's dog) they both were cherry on the cake and (also the big blue monster😂) ♥️♥️. From Stella licking Ashford the first time he met her to Maisie getting obsessed with Emma and in a way bringing both of them together it was so sweet🥹. The side characters Ashford's sister Grace, his brother Callum, his best friend Piper, Judson and dane, also Ayla, the community made this story complete. I can't wait for each character of Lonely Harts getting their happy ending after seeing Emma and Ashford getting theirs I can't wait for other books in this series.
Ashford and Emma's scene of Ashford teaching Emma self defence 🥵🌡️
Ashford and Emma's banter, jabs at each other, flirting, having each other's back, romance, their jokes, the steamy scenes, their happy ending it was ♥️⭐
I loved this book I can go on talking about it, the plot twist was crazy af😧🫠
The next book is Grace and Dane 's I can't wait to read it, I can't wait to see grace find her happy ending after being through too much she deserves a guy who worships the ground she walks on and I know Dane is the one for her. the blurb I read was too little I want more♥️😭
This book had me on edge I thought I knew the twist that was coming but when the plot twist arrived my jaw was on the floor I was not expecting it, the thriller part along with the romance, banter, found family, enemies to lovers, side characters made this book 5 ⭐ for me.
I loved Ashford and Emma and their relationship throughout the book, from their first meeting to the blur telescope(iykyk 😉) it was so cute and heart touching. We can't forget Maisie(Ash's daughter)and Stella(Stella's dog) they both were cherry on the cake and (also the big blue monster😂) ♥️♥️. From Stella licking Ashford the first time he met her to Maisie getting obsessed with Emma and in a way bringing both of them together it was so sweet🥹. The side characters Ashford's sister Grace, his brother Callum, his best friend Piper, Judson and dane, also Ayla, the community made this story complete. I can't wait for each character of Lonely Harts getting their happy ending after seeing Emma and Ashford getting theirs I can't wait for other books in this series.
Ashford and Emma's scene of Ashford teaching Emma self defence 🥵🌡️
Ashford and Emma's banter, jabs at each other, flirting, having each other's back, romance, their jokes, the steamy scenes, their happy ending it was ♥️⭐
I loved this book I can go on talking about it, the plot twist was crazy af😧🫠
The next book is Grace and Dane 's I can't wait to read it, I can't wait to see grace find her happy ending after being through too much she deserves a guy who worships the ground she walks on and I know Dane is the one for her. the blurb I read was too little I want more♥️😭
February 19, 2025
Thank You Love Notes PR and Hannah Shields for an ARC copy of this book! 💌🎶🥋❤️
Rating: 4⭐️
Tropes: Grumpy x Sunshine, Small Town, Single Dad, Secrets / Suspense, Forced Proximity
One thing about me is I will forever enjoy a romance with small town vibes and single parents. Beyond Ashford and Emma being awesome characters, I loved that they each had their own unique past that shaped them to be the characters they are now.
Ashford is a single dad who is a martial arts instructor and Emma teaches music classes to kids. However, Emma is moving to the small town of Hart County for the summer, so Ashford and her have to share a work space. Ashford is this closed off, grumpy man who doesn’t give Emma a very warm welcome. But let me just say… Once he realizes how amazing she is, he is a goner for her!
I don’t know what it is but having a twist of secrecy and suspense in a romance novel bumps it up for me. It takes the story to a whole new level — which this definitely did! Throughout the story I wasn’t only invested in the main characters (+ Maisie and Stella), but also in trying to figure out the suspense plot line.
Some parts of the story seemed to move at a slower pace than I personally would’ve liked, but overall, I would recommend this to any romance reader!
BOOK 1: Hart County
Rating: 4⭐️
Tropes: Grumpy x Sunshine, Small Town, Single Dad, Secrets / Suspense, Forced Proximity
One thing about me is I will forever enjoy a romance with small town vibes and single parents. Beyond Ashford and Emma being awesome characters, I loved that they each had their own unique past that shaped them to be the characters they are now.
Ashford is a single dad who is a martial arts instructor and Emma teaches music classes to kids. However, Emma is moving to the small town of Hart County for the summer, so Ashford and her have to share a work space. Ashford is this closed off, grumpy man who doesn’t give Emma a very warm welcome. But let me just say… Once he realizes how amazing she is, he is a goner for her!
I don’t know what it is but having a twist of secrecy and suspense in a romance novel bumps it up for me. It takes the story to a whole new level — which this definitely did! Throughout the story I wasn’t only invested in the main characters (+ Maisie and Stella), but also in trying to figure out the suspense plot line.
Some parts of the story seemed to move at a slower pace than I personally would’ve liked, but overall, I would recommend this to any romance reader!
BOOK 1: Hart County
January 18, 2025
A huge thank you to Hannah Shields and BookSirens for providing me with this ARC!
Starcrossed Colorado is an exhilarating romantic suspense that masterfully combines a single-dad romance with the forced proximity trope. From the very first page, this book grabbed my attention and didn’t let go.
As someone who prides themselves on unraveling mysteries, I was genuinely stumped by this one! The identity of the villain completely shocked me—Hannah Shields expertly weaves twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The suspense is perfectly balanced with the budding romance, creating a fast-paced, emotionally engaging story.
The characters were compelling, and their chemistry felt authentic and natural. The single-dad aspect added an extra layer of depth, making the stakes feel even higher. Add in the forced proximity trope, and you’ve got a recipe for a gripping, heart-pounding read.
This book is an easy yet thrilling read, perfect for fans of romantic suspense. I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing what the rest of the series has in store!
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
Would I recommend it? Absolutely! If you love romantic suspense with surprising twists, endearing characters, and just the right amount of tension, this one’s for you.
Starcrossed Colorado is an exhilarating romantic suspense that masterfully combines a single-dad romance with the forced proximity trope. From the very first page, this book grabbed my attention and didn’t let go.
As someone who prides themselves on unraveling mysteries, I was genuinely stumped by this one! The identity of the villain completely shocked me—Hannah Shields expertly weaves twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The suspense is perfectly balanced with the budding romance, creating a fast-paced, emotionally engaging story.
The characters were compelling, and their chemistry felt authentic and natural. The single-dad aspect added an extra layer of depth, making the stakes feel even higher. Add in the forced proximity trope, and you’ve got a recipe for a gripping, heart-pounding read.
This book is an easy yet thrilling read, perfect for fans of romantic suspense. I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing what the rest of the series has in store!
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
Would I recommend it? Absolutely! If you love romantic suspense with surprising twists, endearing characters, and just the right amount of tension, this one’s for you.
February 19, 2025
ARC READER!
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Overall rating:⭐⭐⭐.5
This book completely took me by surprise. It was such a refreshing change from the books I’ve read recently. I don’t come across a lot of ex-military MMC books too often—the last one I read was about two years ago—and now, this one has me wanting to read at least four more.
From the very beginning, this book kept me guessing. I kept coming up with new theories—the eerie feeling of being watched, the mysterious person watching Emma and Maisie, the unsettling mail and phone calls. It had me pausing more than once, thinking, What am I reading? It wasn’t too on-the-nose, which I usually love since I read for vibes, but this time, the constant guessing kept me hooked. I absolutely loved that.
If I had to nitpick, the only thing that felt slightly off was Emma. I couldn’t quite put my finger on what was missing, but I wanted just a little more from her. Ashford, on the other hand—while his name took me a second to get used to—was everything. A grumpy, protective single dad? Say less. Every time we got his POV, I was eating it up—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. That said, Maisie and Stella completely stole the show every time they popped in. I really hope we get glimpses of them throughout the series!
There were maybe one or two awkward sentences, but nothing that would take away from the story or make you want to DNF. Also, I wouldn’t consider this a slow burn. I know it’s listed as one, and while the pacing is really well done, it didn’t feel like a slow burn to me. If anything, I would’ve loved for the initial dislike between the characters to last just a little longer. But even with that, I devoured this book in less than a day.
Sidenote: I really hope Ayla gets her own book! I was hoping she’d be next in the series, but either way, I’ll definitely be reading Grace and Dane.
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Overall rating:⭐⭐⭐.5
This book completely took me by surprise. It was such a refreshing change from the books I’ve read recently. I don’t come across a lot of ex-military MMC books too often—the last one I read was about two years ago—and now, this one has me wanting to read at least four more.
From the very beginning, this book kept me guessing. I kept coming up with new theories—the eerie feeling of being watched, the mysterious person watching Emma and Maisie, the unsettling mail and phone calls. It had me pausing more than once, thinking, What am I reading? It wasn’t too on-the-nose, which I usually love since I read for vibes, but this time, the constant guessing kept me hooked. I absolutely loved that.
If I had to nitpick, the only thing that felt slightly off was Emma. I couldn’t quite put my finger on what was missing, but I wanted just a little more from her. Ashford, on the other hand—while his name took me a second to get used to—was everything. A grumpy, protective single dad? Say less. Every time we got his POV, I was eating it up—breakfast, lunch, and dinner. That said, Maisie and Stella completely stole the show every time they popped in. I really hope we get glimpses of them throughout the series!
There were maybe one or two awkward sentences, but nothing that would take away from the story or make you want to DNF. Also, I wouldn’t consider this a slow burn. I know it’s listed as one, and while the pacing is really well done, it didn’t feel like a slow burn to me. If anything, I would’ve loved for the initial dislike between the characters to last just a little longer. But even with that, I devoured this book in less than a day.
Sidenote: I really hope Ayla gets her own book! I was hoping she’d be next in the series, but either way, I’ll definitely be reading Grace and Dane.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2025
Received as an ARC and leaving my honest review voluntarily. Awesome start to this new series with some crossover to the Last Refuge Protectors series. This had a mix of grumpy/sunshine, age-gap, single dad romance with some mystery and suspense thrown in. The build up in tension and chemistry between Ashford and Emma was just delicious and explosive! Ashford comes across as grumpy and unbending but as you get to know him and the reason for it, it becomes obvious that it's not cos he doesn't care but he cares too much and deeply. Emma is a vibrant soul who does appear a little flighty but the 2 balance each other out perfectly. Throw in a cute and precocious little girl, Maisie and a lovable and playful dog, Stella and what's not to love? Looking forward to the next book in the series!
February 13, 2025
Ashford and Emma’s story had so many of my favorite tropes including small town, suspense, age gap, grumpy sunshine. Hannah wrote it perfectly! Ashford was such a grump and despite what she had been through, Emma was such a ray of sunshine. I was hooked from page one and love this world. Hannah is one of my favorite romantic suspense writers and this was a great example of why! The suspense element kept me guessing and had me staying up way too late to finish this book. I cannot wait for the rest of the series!
October 22, 2025
A cute small town/ single dad romance, not my usual read but written well & with lots of fun characters🫶🏻
February 19, 2025
✨ ARC review ✨
Sorry I’m late to the party.
I loved this book. The chemistry, banter and relationship between Emma and Ashford was just amazing and believable.
Double points for the adorable Maisie and Stella. 🧒 🐕
“ Can we keep you forever?” 🥲
2.5 🌶️
4 🌟
I will defiantly be reading more by Hannah Shield
Thank you for the ARC opportunity x
Sorry I’m late to the party.
I loved this book. The chemistry, banter and relationship between Emma and Ashford was just amazing and believable.
Double points for the adorable Maisie and Stella. 🧒 🐕
“ Can we keep you forever?” 🥲
2.5 🌶️
4 🌟
I will defiantly be reading more by Hannah Shield
Thank you for the ARC opportunity x
February 19, 2025
3.75 ⭐ 🌶🌶
I liked the book well enough and the characters. Immediately, I had a soft spot for the grumpy Ashford & just knew I was going to end up loving him.
I also enjoyed Emma's character.
I wish the "suspense" part would have been more of the story as well as when the "suspense" finally did hit that it lasted a bit longer, but that's just my own personal preference.
I liked the book well enough and the characters. Immediately, I had a soft spot for the grumpy Ashford & just knew I was going to end up loving him.
I also enjoyed Emma's character.
I wish the "suspense" part would have been more of the story as well as when the "suspense" finally did hit that it lasted a bit longer, but that's just my own personal preference.
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