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Oak Ridge, #1
Heartstrings & Horizons: A Long-Distance Friends to Lovers Romance
Paige
I’ve always felt like a spectator in my own life, trying to live up to my parents’ expectations instead of paving my own path. It took a whole bottle of wine and a not so gentle nudge from my best friend to venture into the realm of online dating. I’m steadfast in my belief that being a plus size woman on a dating app will only produce heartbreak. I wasn’t expecting Cade, the small town bartender from Oak Ridge, Kentucky who sneaks past all of my defenses. All we’ll ever be is friends, but when I fall apart, he’s right there to pick up the pieces and claim them for himself.
Cade
Content with my life in small-town USA, I wasn’t looking for love but curiosity got the better of me and I joined a dating app. One misunderstanding and a whole lot of flirting later, Paige turns my world upside down. The only catch? She’s from Canada and we’ll never be anything more than friends, despite how much I’m drawn to her and all of her broken pieces. 800 miles and a spontaneous proposal just might change our lives forever.
Content this title contains mentions of childhood trauma, detailed sexual content, as well as mental health struggles.
I’ve always felt like a spectator in my own life, trying to live up to my parents’ expectations instead of paving my own path. It took a whole bottle of wine and a not so gentle nudge from my best friend to venture into the realm of online dating. I’m steadfast in my belief that being a plus size woman on a dating app will only produce heartbreak. I wasn’t expecting Cade, the small town bartender from Oak Ridge, Kentucky who sneaks past all of my defenses. All we’ll ever be is friends, but when I fall apart, he’s right there to pick up the pieces and claim them for himself.
Cade
Content with my life in small-town USA, I wasn’t looking for love but curiosity got the better of me and I joined a dating app. One misunderstanding and a whole lot of flirting later, Paige turns my world upside down. The only catch? She’s from Canada and we’ll never be anything more than friends, despite how much I’m drawn to her and all of her broken pieces. 800 miles and a spontaneous proposal just might change our lives forever.
Content this title contains mentions of childhood trauma, detailed sexual content, as well as mental health struggles.
394 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2025
134 people are currently reading
620 people want to read
About the author
Willa Kay
10 books129 followersAuthor of heartwarming small town contemporary romance, Willa is a voracious reader turned writer living in Kentucky. Originally from Canada, she's a photographer by day, and a mom of two, married to her partner for 16 years. Willa's books blend small town swoon with delicious spice, and complex characters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
November 19, 2024
First I want to say that I have been in the biggest reading slump of my life and I opened this book and then walked away from my books and kindle for a while and just getting back into it I had to finish this one because it was so interesting I couldn’t stop reading it once I started back! I read it on KU so please go check it out if you have KU. Go support this indie author 🫶
The FMC’s name is Paige so of course I loved her 🤭 and the mmc’s name is Cade and he’s definitely up there with some of my favorite book boyfriends now. I loved the cheesy pick up lines 😂
I felt like this story was very relatable considering their family issues and just how raw the relationship was. It genuinely felt real.
~ Plus size rep
~ Found family
~ Library scene 🤭
Definitely a cute read!
The FMC’s name is Paige so of course I loved her 🤭 and the mmc’s name is Cade and he’s definitely up there with some of my favorite book boyfriends now. I loved the cheesy pick up lines 😂
I felt like this story was very relatable considering their family issues and just how raw the relationship was. It genuinely felt real.
~ Plus size rep
~ Found family
~ Library scene 🤭
Definitely a cute read!
September 9, 2024
It has taken me days to come up with the right words to express how much I absolutely enjoyed this book. I rarely ever completely relate to a main character, but I whole heartedly related to Paige. I think Willa did a great job of showcasing mental health issues, not just telling us but actually showing us through her characters. I loved the writing, I laughed, I cried, and it was an overall great book.
This is a small town, friends to lovers, no third act break up happily ever after story.
We have Paige our plus size FMC who is convinced by her best friend to try online dating, she finally opens up the app to see she got a message and a misunderstanding later she and Cade quickly become friends. Cade definitely falls first and as they keep talking Paige soon realizes she wants to be with him too. As they navigate this new relationship and unsupportive families they also have to deal with their own personal demons. With the love and support of their found family they grow both with each other and into themselves.
This is a small town, friends to lovers, no third act break up happily ever after story.
We have Paige our plus size FMC who is convinced by her best friend to try online dating, she finally opens up the app to see she got a message and a misunderstanding later she and Cade quickly become friends. Cade definitely falls first and as they keep talking Paige soon realizes she wants to be with him too. As they navigate this new relationship and unsupportive families they also have to deal with their own personal demons. With the love and support of their found family they grow both with each other and into themselves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2024
This book was absolutely amazing. Cade is up there on my list of top book boyfriends. Paige is 100% relatable in so many ways. The love they share is evident on every page from start to finish. Oak Ridge is my new favorite place and I wish I could visit it in real life. I highly recommend everyone to read this novel. It truly is so good and Willa made me fall in love with every character. I cannot wait for the next book.
THE LIBRARY SCENE HOLY 🥵 so amazing.
THE LIBRARY SCENE HOLY 🥵 so amazing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
- Plus size rep
- Mental health rep
- Found family
- Accidental proposal (that had me screaming)
- Small town
- Long distance friends to lovers
This is Willa’s debut novel and I have to say, she absolutely crushed it. I am literally Paige (beyond just the name) and have never related to a fictional character SO deeply. It felt like Willa reached into my brain, plucked out bits of my personality, mannerisms, life experiences and then wrote a character about it. It was almost unnerving. Paige is a plus size (same) FMC with mental health struggles (same) who loves Elsie Silver and cowboy romances (same) and she went to college to be a history teacher because she felt pressured by her parents to pick a path in life she felt like they approved of (GIRL PLEASE, SAME. Down to the majors)
Paige meets our Kentucky Fried Hottie man on a dating app and they start a long distance friendship until it develops in to more. Cade Brooks is a bartender from a small town and I LOVED him. He’s so kind hearted, supportive and has a filthy mouth. I also love a MMC who isn’t afraid to be vulnerable.
The romance was sweet, so so so cute (maybe a little cheesy sometimes) but it had me LITERALLY kicking my feet in the air and giggling. The amount of times I had to put this book down and screech from joy was astounding. I laughed, I cried and watching Paige and her confidence grow with the support from her friends and Cade was healing in a way that I can’t really describe.
- Plus size rep
- Mental health rep
- Found family
- Accidental proposal (that had me screaming)
- Small town
- Long distance friends to lovers
This is Willa’s debut novel and I have to say, she absolutely crushed it. I am literally Paige (beyond just the name) and have never related to a fictional character SO deeply. It felt like Willa reached into my brain, plucked out bits of my personality, mannerisms, life experiences and then wrote a character about it. It was almost unnerving. Paige is a plus size (same) FMC with mental health struggles (same) who loves Elsie Silver and cowboy romances (same) and she went to college to be a history teacher because she felt pressured by her parents to pick a path in life she felt like they approved of (GIRL PLEASE, SAME. Down to the majors)
Paige meets our Kentucky Fried Hottie man on a dating app and they start a long distance friendship until it develops in to more. Cade Brooks is a bartender from a small town and I LOVED him. He’s so kind hearted, supportive and has a filthy mouth. I also love a MMC who isn’t afraid to be vulnerable.
The romance was sweet, so so so cute (maybe a little cheesy sometimes) but it had me LITERALLY kicking my feet in the air and giggling. The amount of times I had to put this book down and screech from joy was astounding. I laughed, I cried and watching Paige and her confidence grow with the support from her friends and Cade was healing in a way that I can’t really describe.
July 29, 2025
2.5 Nice.
Loved the beginning. The rest was fine. I get that the point was they rushed into it all and then figured everything out. But I was really enjoying the friends part and the slow build in their relationship. Also it seemed very easy to just immigrate. (I don’t know… in the current climate I can’t see it happening, I know I should suspend my disbelief for a book)
For me personally the parts that I connected with the most was the stuff with her mum and that trauma. It was cathartic and aided in my current healing journey.
The ending wasn’t for me, the total 180 in the mums personality was too suspicious for me and the other thing at the end….just not my vibe at this stage in my life.
Loved the beginning. The rest was fine. I get that the point was they rushed into it all and then figured everything out. But I was really enjoying the friends part and the slow build in their relationship. Also it seemed very easy to just immigrate. (I don’t know… in the current climate I can’t see it happening, I know I should suspend my disbelief for a book)
For me personally the parts that I connected with the most was the stuff with her mum and that trauma. It was cathartic and aided in my current healing journey.
The ending wasn’t for me, the total 180 in the mums personality was too suspicious for me and the other thing at the end….just not my vibe at this stage in my life.
September 4, 2024
This book is phenomenal! I have never related to an FMC more than I do Paige. She has a beautiful heart and she loves everyone more than herself. The texting and DM banter in this book had me laughing out loud and kicking my feet and giggling at how cute these two are. The story is beautifully written and I want to live in this fictional small town with all of these characters. If this is intended to be a series I can’t wait to read the stories to come. 10/10 highly recommend!
September 2, 2024
For starters, romance is not my typical genre but I quickly fell in love with the characters, the small town, the banter, the everything. I could not shut up about this book while I was reading it.
Yes, it’s spicy. Just the perfect amount.
The entire book was absolutely perfect. By the end of it I was wishing Paige and Cade and their friend group were real people that I could hang out with. I kept forgetting that their precious little small town in Oak Ridge Kentucky was a fictional place. I had to remind myself that I couldn’t visit.
I honestly feel like there was a little bit of myself in every single one of the characters.
All the situations, all the feelings were so relatable, I can’t wait to read more from Willa Kay.
Yes, it’s spicy. Just the perfect amount.
The entire book was absolutely perfect. By the end of it I was wishing Paige and Cade and their friend group were real people that I could hang out with. I kept forgetting that their precious little small town in Oak Ridge Kentucky was a fictional place. I had to remind myself that I couldn’t visit.
I honestly feel like there was a little bit of myself in every single one of the characters.
All the situations, all the feelings were so relatable, I can’t wait to read more from Willa Kay.
September 14, 2024
It was,really beautiful. I love Paige and Cade and relate so hard to Paige. For reasons I won't mention in the review but I relate to her. I had to take a break and read my other ARC book before I could complete this one for that reason.
(There are definitely heavy themes,always check content/trigger warnings fyi. Gauge your mood,if you aren't in that mindset to handle it. Take a break and read something else)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
- I loved the pinning and the reunions. The banter is beautiful and this couple is silly.
- The spice is 👌 and works well in the parts they exist in.
- He falls first, pretty hard. Like off a cliff hard lol. (she follows suit tbh)
- Sweet romance that will have you giggling and some parts might have you in tears.
Pretty sure I know who the next few books are about too 😏
(There are definitely heavy themes,always check content/trigger warnings fyi. Gauge your mood,if you aren't in that mindset to handle it. Take a break and read something else)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
- I loved the pinning and the reunions. The banter is beautiful and this couple is silly.
- The spice is 👌 and works well in the parts they exist in.
- He falls first, pretty hard. Like off a cliff hard lol. (she follows suit tbh)
- Sweet romance that will have you giggling and some parts might have you in tears.
Pretty sure I know who the next few books are about too 😏
September 9, 2024
The representation of a plus sized character was a breath of fresh air. Paige’s struggles with both feeling accepted as well as dealing with mental health were so relatable. This book made me feel seen, it made me feel understood. The spice was chef’s kiss. I can’t wait to read more from this author. She found a new fan in me.
September 5, 2024
Worth the read- the book is phenomenal! Paige’s struggles are so real & raw. Cade is a walking green flag, who makes sure his woman is not only told but SHOWN how important she is. Paige deserves the world & when Cade finally gives it to her- there’s no stopping. The spice & the playful-ness amongst them is perfection. Their friends are also amazing. Definitely wish I had my own Ivy & Mags!
June 4, 2025
This is a small-town romance where he falls first—and hard. But between the distance, family drama, and personal insecurities, Paige and Cade have a lot stacked against them.
It all starts with a flirty back-and-forth on a dating app. Paige lives in Canada, Cade’s in Kentucky. Paige is such a relatable main character—funny, awkward, totally in her head, and just trying to figure things out. And Cade? A literal walking green flag.
The banter is top-tier, the nicknames (Sunshine & Cowboy!) made me melt, and the chemistry? Oh, it’s there—and it’s spicy in the best way. I wasn’t totally sold on how quickly things moved between them, especially that instant “next step,” but honestly? Willa’s writing, the character work, and the spice more than made up for it.
I also loved the side characters and the whole found family vibe—it added so much warmth and depth to the story. The book tackles heavy topics like depression, body image, and toxic family dynamics with care and honesty.
Definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in, but if you’re into small-town romance with heart, heat, and emotional depth—this one’s worth the read. Willa Kay might just be a new fave. 💙
It all starts with a flirty back-and-forth on a dating app. Paige lives in Canada, Cade’s in Kentucky. Paige is such a relatable main character—funny, awkward, totally in her head, and just trying to figure things out. And Cade? A literal walking green flag.
The banter is top-tier, the nicknames (Sunshine & Cowboy!) made me melt, and the chemistry? Oh, it’s there—and it’s spicy in the best way. I wasn’t totally sold on how quickly things moved between them, especially that instant “next step,” but honestly? Willa’s writing, the character work, and the spice more than made up for it.
I also loved the side characters and the whole found family vibe—it added so much warmth and depth to the story. The book tackles heavy topics like depression, body image, and toxic family dynamics with care and honesty.
Definitely check the trigger warnings before diving in, but if you’re into small-town romance with heart, heat, and emotional depth—this one’s worth the read. Willa Kay might just be a new fave. 💙
September 19, 2024
I devoured this book, becoming completely engrossed in Paige and Cades love story as well as all the residents of Oak Ridge. Romance is not my genre but this book had me giggling, kicking my feet, sobbing, and clutching my proverbial pearls. This book made me feel all the emotions and did a flawless job of 2 POVs shifting seamlessly. Being able to read a story about a plus size FMC with mental health issues was a breath of fresh air but also healed something in me. I’ll be the first one at book signings and the first one with any Oak Ridge books in my cart.
August 28, 2024
This book is so good to be from a debut author! I beta read it, and while it's not what I typically read, I was hooked! Paige and Cade drew me in.
My absolute favorite part was their banter. The characters felt so relatable.
Paige is someone I'm sure everyone woman can relate to. Half the time she feels down on her looks, thinks she's overweight and not as pretty as some people. BUT my man Cade, he changes that! He shows her that she's beautiful no matter what, and she blossoms!
Cade is the guy everyone wants. He's loving and attentive, goes out of his way to show he cares. I loved the birthday in Canada, having a man do something like that is unheard of for most women seems like. BUT, that's not even the best part. When they are separated, waiting on her visa, THIS MAN BUILT HER A LIBRARY IN HIS HOUSE?! 📚📚
Also, something heavily relatable (to me anyway) was her relationship with her parents. The mom especially. Can you say rough. 😅
Maggie is the best friend we all need.
By the end of this book I was wishing I could visit Oak Grove, and had a little more love in my heart for Small Town America.
My absolute favorite part was their banter. The characters felt so relatable.
Paige is someone I'm sure everyone woman can relate to. Half the time she feels down on her looks, thinks she's overweight and not as pretty as some people. BUT my man Cade, he changes that! He shows her that she's beautiful no matter what, and she blossoms!
Cade is the guy everyone wants. He's loving and attentive, goes out of his way to show he cares. I loved the birthday in Canada, having a man do something like that is unheard of for most women seems like. BUT, that's not even the best part. When they are separated, waiting on her visa, THIS MAN BUILT HER A LIBRARY IN HIS HOUSE?! 📚📚
Also, something heavily relatable (to me anyway) was her relationship with her parents. The mom especially. Can you say rough. 😅
Maggie is the best friend we all need.
By the end of this book I was wishing I could visit Oak Grove, and had a little more love in my heart for Small Town America.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
dnf
November 21, 2024DNF @ 55%… this felt very Ai encoded, I could be wrong but writing is poorly paced, no show just tell with random drops of info and unnecessary flashbacks. I gave it as much as I did because I actually enjoyed the story & related HEAVILY with the FMC. But I’m half way through it and bored now.
September 11, 2024
The longing! The banter! The spicy scenes! This is a great debut novel!! I loved Paige finding her power and confidence. Cade is the best book boyfriend!
October 10, 2025
Idk how I found Willa Kay, but my life is better because of it.
This book was amazing, I have recommended to everyone I know 😂
This book was amazing, I have recommended to everyone I know 😂
July 16, 2025
DNF @ 43% - this book had me smiling at some of their banter but at times it got cringey. This was my first friends to lovers book, and maybe the trope just isn’t for me. It’s sweet, but it also felt like there were too many pointless scenes. I found myself skipping multiple pages. The smut scenes were hot, but the overuse of “baby” killed it for me, and he would say things like “hot as fuck wife, sexy as fuck wife”, it just felt very immature to me.
August 17, 2025
I liked this book enough to finish it. I am writing this review a full 2 months later so I don’t hugely remember why I didn’t DNF it. I just love seeing a fat main character and I am willing to put up with a lot to get it. but holy fuck it was cringey. had a light dusting of millennial cringey humour over every thing. don’t think I will carry on in the series as the rest of the premises don’t interest me.
October 6, 2024
Please Read TW’s before starting this book
Tropes: Small Town, Friends to lovers,Found Family
First of all for a Debut novel this so amazingly written in a way you feel you’re in Oak Ridge yourself along with the characters! I adored Paige and Cade so so much! It’s taken me a bit to come up with the words for this review because I loved this book so much, The mental health representation and struggles shown is so on point in this book and it definitely adds to the story,and the characters.
And don’t get me started on the spice ooh I loved it, the scenes were written perfectly and added another level to the plot! The longing… Wit and banter, texting etc.. truly made you feel as if you were there yourself with these characters and growing with their relationship..This small town,friends to lovers romance story made me feel every emotion possible, I was actually sobbing at one point in the book,but it also had me giggling, and clutching my Kindle at times as well. Paige the Plus sized FMC was a breath of fresh air truly! I related to the main FMC Paige on so many levels,some of her trauma was also my trauma, so I cried with her, and healed with her as well. And Cade omg Cade who might be my new Fave MMC & Book BF all wrapped in one! Cade shows Paige how much she is loved and cared for it not only words but actions. Paige deserves the absolute world!! I loved their friend group and the found family so much. I had so much love in my heart for their friends and Oak Ridge. Willa outdid herself with Heartstrings & Horizons and I can’t wait for the next book in the series..
Tropes: Small Town, Friends to lovers,Found Family
First of all for a Debut novel this so amazingly written in a way you feel you’re in Oak Ridge yourself along with the characters! I adored Paige and Cade so so much! It’s taken me a bit to come up with the words for this review because I loved this book so much, The mental health representation and struggles shown is so on point in this book and it definitely adds to the story,and the characters.
And don’t get me started on the spice ooh I loved it, the scenes were written perfectly and added another level to the plot! The longing… Wit and banter, texting etc.. truly made you feel as if you were there yourself with these characters and growing with their relationship..This small town,friends to lovers romance story made me feel every emotion possible, I was actually sobbing at one point in the book,but it also had me giggling, and clutching my Kindle at times as well. Paige the Plus sized FMC was a breath of fresh air truly! I related to the main FMC Paige on so many levels,some of her trauma was also my trauma, so I cried with her, and healed with her as well. And Cade omg Cade who might be my new Fave MMC & Book BF all wrapped in one! Cade shows Paige how much she is loved and cared for it not only words but actions. Paige deserves the absolute world!! I loved their friend group and the found family so much. I had so much love in my heart for their friends and Oak Ridge. Willa outdid herself with Heartstrings & Horizons and I can’t wait for the next book in the series..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2025
Book Review: Heartstrings & Horizons by Willa Kay
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
I really wanted to love this one—and in some ways, I did—but overall, Heartstrings & Horizons ended up falling a little flat for me.
The premise was unique and emotionally layered, which initially drew me in. Willa Kay did a beautiful job portraying real struggles like depression, complicated family dynamics, and long-distance love. And I loved Cade. His unwavering support and the way he consistently put Paige first reminded me so much of my own Cade at home, which made him extra special in my eyes.
That said, the pacing dragged. I normally finish a book in four days or less, but this one took me 8 days. There just wasn’t enough happening in the middle of the story to keep me fully engaged, and there were a few moments when I genuinely considered not finishing. It felt like I was waiting for a turning point or some emotional payoff that took too long to arrive.
Still, I was rooting for Paige—especially as she found her place in Kentucky with her new “found family.” That part really worked for me, and I’m happy she got her HEA, even if her journey stills seems to be ongoing and messy.
While I’m going to take a little break from the series, I’m not giving up on it. I’m still planning to read Book 2 (Ivy and Luca’s story) and hoping that one grabs me a bit more tightly.
If you’re someone who appreciates a quiet, introspective romance with emotionally complex characters and a slow burn, this one might resonate more deeply with you.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
I really wanted to love this one—and in some ways, I did—but overall, Heartstrings & Horizons ended up falling a little flat for me.
The premise was unique and emotionally layered, which initially drew me in. Willa Kay did a beautiful job portraying real struggles like depression, complicated family dynamics, and long-distance love. And I loved Cade. His unwavering support and the way he consistently put Paige first reminded me so much of my own Cade at home, which made him extra special in my eyes.
That said, the pacing dragged. I normally finish a book in four days or less, but this one took me 8 days. There just wasn’t enough happening in the middle of the story to keep me fully engaged, and there were a few moments when I genuinely considered not finishing. It felt like I was waiting for a turning point or some emotional payoff that took too long to arrive.
Still, I was rooting for Paige—especially as she found her place in Kentucky with her new “found family.” That part really worked for me, and I’m happy she got her HEA, even if her journey stills seems to be ongoing and messy.
While I’m going to take a little break from the series, I’m not giving up on it. I’m still planning to read Book 2 (Ivy and Luca’s story) and hoping that one grabs me a bit more tightly.
If you’re someone who appreciates a quiet, introspective romance with emotionally complex characters and a slow burn, this one might resonate more deeply with you.
November 6, 2024
Wow! Willa Kay just became an auto-buy author for me. I've not read such a poignant representation of depression since Olivia Dade's 'At First Spite'.
Paige and Cade meet on a dating app and quickly begin falling for one another. They resolve to remain platonic though as Paige lives in Toronto, while Cade lives in Kentucky. As the months pass, their mutual pining reaches a peak and Paige realizes how unhappy she is in Toronto. Throwing caution to the wind, these two get engaged, deciding they will figure out whatever they need as long as they can be together.
This small town was such a great setting and I loved the characters Kay established for this series. I also really appreciated that while our couple gets an HEA, that doesn't always mean things are peachy with difficult family members. The tension between parents and in-laws isn't really resolved and I felt that made this story more realistic. The importance of setting boundaries and of prioritizing mental health was a huge aspect of this book.
Cade and Paige also had delightful chemistry. Not only was it hot, but I love when characters can laugh about and during sex. The lightness and comfort with one another while the outside world was not always accepting was a great juxtaposition.
I'm very much looking forward to this series!
Paige and Cade meet on a dating app and quickly begin falling for one another. They resolve to remain platonic though as Paige lives in Toronto, while Cade lives in Kentucky. As the months pass, their mutual pining reaches a peak and Paige realizes how unhappy she is in Toronto. Throwing caution to the wind, these two get engaged, deciding they will figure out whatever they need as long as they can be together.
This small town was such a great setting and I loved the characters Kay established for this series. I also really appreciated that while our couple gets an HEA, that doesn't always mean things are peachy with difficult family members. The tension between parents and in-laws isn't really resolved and I felt that made this story more realistic. The importance of setting boundaries and of prioritizing mental health was a huge aspect of this book.
Cade and Paige also had delightful chemistry. Not only was it hot, but I love when characters can laugh about and during sex. The lightness and comfort with one another while the outside world was not always accepting was a great juxtaposition.
I'm very much looking forward to this series!
October 8, 2024
I give this a 3.75/5.
I would have rated it higher had it not been because I think there were far too many spicy scenes for my taste and I almost DNF’d because of this. However, I will say that this content aside, it was a pretty good read.
Pros:
- plus size representation
- vulnerable MMC
- mature relationship
- open communication between MC’s
- mental health rep
Cons:
- too many 🌶️ scenes IMO
- wish there was more side character development
Though the pros outweigh the cons, again, the fact that the book was very heavily centered on explicit content was kind of a turn off for me. Though this was specified in the TW’s, I wasn’t expecting it to be so much.
However, I do think this is a quick and enjoyable read and I loved the plus size representation. And the MMC was one of the swooniest and supportive MMC’s I’ve read this month lol. So if you can overlook the 🌶️ content, then I say go for it. If you can’t, then maybe this one isn’t for you.
Check the TW’s prior to reading for additional info on content.
I would have rated it higher had it not been because I think there were far too many spicy scenes for my taste and I almost DNF’d because of this. However, I will say that this content aside, it was a pretty good read.
Pros:
- plus size representation
- vulnerable MMC
- mature relationship
- open communication between MC’s
- mental health rep
Cons:
- too many 🌶️ scenes IMO
- wish there was more side character development
Though the pros outweigh the cons, again, the fact that the book was very heavily centered on explicit content was kind of a turn off for me. Though this was specified in the TW’s, I wasn’t expecting it to be so much.
However, I do think this is a quick and enjoyable read and I loved the plus size representation. And the MMC was one of the swooniest and supportive MMC’s I’ve read this month lol. So if you can overlook the 🌶️ content, then I say go for it. If you can’t, then maybe this one isn’t for you.
Check the TW’s prior to reading for additional info on content.
October 2, 2024
3.5 rounded to 4/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶️
❤️ Mental health rep
❤️ Friends to lovers
❤️ Long distance relationship
❤️ He falls first
❤️ Found family
Loved the concept and overall really really enjoyed this book. The way Paige's depression was written resonated so deeply with me, and the way Cade steps into it with her when needed but also gives her the space to deal with it... the relationship between them is something I won't forget any time soon.
The tense throughout the book switched from past tense to present and it unfortunately took me out of the story every single time. Not sure if this was an editing issue or just a writing style choice but it didn't work for me at all.
With all of that said, I will definitely be giving this author another chance when the next book comes out and I'm excited for more!
3/5 🌶️
❤️ Mental health rep
❤️ Friends to lovers
❤️ Long distance relationship
❤️ He falls first
❤️ Found family
Loved the concept and overall really really enjoyed this book. The way Paige's depression was written resonated so deeply with me, and the way Cade steps into it with her when needed but also gives her the space to deal with it... the relationship between them is something I won't forget any time soon.
The tense throughout the book switched from past tense to present and it unfortunately took me out of the story every single time. Not sure if this was an editing issue or just a writing style choice but it didn't work for me at all.
With all of that said, I will definitely be giving this author another chance when the next book comes out and I'm excited for more!
October 13, 2025
This book! This is the second one I’ve read from this series, and I don’t regret ever reading this series! I am loving the plus size representation! And as a fellow plus size girly, it has been an encouragement to know that we are worthy of love as much as the next person. Now, this dialogue though,
“I know I’m beautiful, and I’ve learned to celebrate my body for what it
allows me to do. But the world is cruel and unkind to people who exist inlarger bodies. They make us feel invisible, or worse, like we shouldn’t take
up space. It’s taken a lot of self-reflection to love myself, but comments like
that pull me back to a time when I didn’t. It took years to overcome my
insecurities and honestly, I still have bad body days.” THIS FREAKING BROKE ME! 😭😭 it totally encapsulates the struggle of being a plus size woman! 😭
I’m so glad I discovered Willa and this series!
“I know I’m beautiful, and I’ve learned to celebrate my body for what it
allows me to do. But the world is cruel and unkind to people who exist inlarger bodies. They make us feel invisible, or worse, like we shouldn’t take
up space. It’s taken a lot of self-reflection to love myself, but comments like
that pull me back to a time when I didn’t. It took years to overcome my
insecurities and honestly, I still have bad body days.” THIS FREAKING BROKE ME! 😭😭 it totally encapsulates the struggle of being a plus size woman! 😭
I’m so glad I discovered Willa and this series!
December 15, 2025
Story Rate ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spicy Rate 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Being a plus size girl since I was a child,
I totally understand her feelings when she
got mocked about body shaming. I was body
shamed since I was young and I hate every
second whenever someone body shamed me.
The sad thing is, Paige got it from her family.
It hits too close to home for me. And living
through someone's expectation other than
you choosing the life that you want? Damn.
I can never go through with that. I would have
rebel throughout my whole life.
But Cade, oh he's a sweetheart! My heart melts
for all the gestures he did for Paige. The
patience, the trust, the vulnerability 🥹 It's not
easy to see a guy shred their armour and show
their vulnerability.
Overall, an awesome book but a little lengthy
due to long distance relationship.
This have essence of Squirter, face sitting.
Spicy Rate 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Being a plus size girl since I was a child,
I totally understand her feelings when she
got mocked about body shaming. I was body
shamed since I was young and I hate every
second whenever someone body shamed me.
The sad thing is, Paige got it from her family.
It hits too close to home for me. And living
through someone's expectation other than
you choosing the life that you want? Damn.
I can never go through with that. I would have
rebel throughout my whole life.
But Cade, oh he's a sweetheart! My heart melts
for all the gestures he did for Paige. The
patience, the trust, the vulnerability 🥹 It's not
easy to see a guy shred their armour and show
their vulnerability.
Overall, an awesome book but a little lengthy
due to long distance relationship.
This have essence of Squirter, face sitting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2024
Phew!
This book was beautiful. I have laughed so many times. The witty back and forth with all the characters really lightened me. It was such a feel-good. That's not to say there weren't some heavy moments. The were the right amount of heavy. Along with feeling so connected with the characters, I was seething on their behalf at moments, as well. Willa truly painted Oak Ridge as such a beautiful place that I want to go live at myself. I also love the glimpses of Canadian culture? Cuisine? I have the paperback as well, and yall, it's BEAUTIFUL. Even the chapter pages! I highly recommend not only reading this great book, but purchasing the paperback as well. I can't wait for book 2!
This book was beautiful. I have laughed so many times. The witty back and forth with all the characters really lightened me. It was such a feel-good. That's not to say there weren't some heavy moments. The were the right amount of heavy. Along with feeling so connected with the characters, I was seething on their behalf at moments, as well. Willa truly painted Oak Ridge as such a beautiful place that I want to go live at myself. I also love the glimpses of Canadian culture? Cuisine? I have the paperback as well, and yall, it's BEAUTIFUL. Even the chapter pages! I highly recommend not only reading this great book, but purchasing the paperback as well. I can't wait for book 2!
February 20, 2025
Excellent book!
I do not normally read books with a small town trope, but this book is my exception. I loved the FMC and the MMC so much. I related so hard to the FMC and her struggles with her parents, her body, and what to do with her life. I loved every second of this book!
If you want a cute romance with very good spice and lots of fun banter, I highly recommend this book!
Also, Willa is a delightful human being and you should follow her on all the socials. She does a really good job of marketing her books. I will be buying the rest of the series as it comes out and so should you!
I do not normally read books with a small town trope, but this book is my exception. I loved the FMC and the MMC so much. I related so hard to the FMC and her struggles with her parents, her body, and what to do with her life. I loved every second of this book!
If you want a cute romance with very good spice and lots of fun banter, I highly recommend this book!
Also, Willa is a delightful human being and you should follow her on all the socials. She does a really good job of marketing her books. I will be buying the rest of the series as it comes out and so should you!
July 22, 2025
Heartstrings and horizons
I have never felt more see or heard as a plus size women, then I have in this book. The way the author describe the FMC, trouble with dating as a bigger person, the the judgment from family. The depression she feels, how hard it is to let other people in and take control. Reading this story with the ending the FMC ends up with finding her cowboy, who accept her for who she is and helps her out of the darkness, gives me hope, that my happy ending it out there, that there'll be someone, who sees me the way I need to be seen.
Willa Kay. You have touched my heart the way no other authors has. 💜
I have never felt more see or heard as a plus size women, then I have in this book. The way the author describe the FMC, trouble with dating as a bigger person, the the judgment from family. The depression she feels, how hard it is to let other people in and take control. Reading this story with the ending the FMC ends up with finding her cowboy, who accept her for who she is and helps her out of the darkness, gives me hope, that my happy ending it out there, that there'll be someone, who sees me the way I need to be seen.
Willa Kay. You have touched my heart the way no other authors has. 💜
July 24, 2025
My heartstrings were definitely pulled!
As soon as I read the dedication I knew I was going to love it and I was not disappointed. As someone that has gone through what Paige has and from the relationship with her mother , how society sees us different because of our bodies , makes me feels noticed. I’ve never related more to a character than I did with Paige.
Everyone deserves to have a Cade Brooks in their life. The way he cares for her , makes sure she was everything she needs is just beyond beautiful. I caught myself giggling and crying at some many moments in this book. It’s definitely worth the read.
As soon as I read the dedication I knew I was going to love it and I was not disappointed. As someone that has gone through what Paige has and from the relationship with her mother , how society sees us different because of our bodies , makes me feels noticed. I’ve never related more to a character than I did with Paige.
Everyone deserves to have a Cade Brooks in their life. The way he cares for her , makes sure she was everything she needs is just beyond beautiful. I caught myself giggling and crying at some many moments in this book. It’s definitely worth the read.
September 29, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 stars!)
Just finished Heartstrings & Horizons the first pick off my new Once Upon a TBR wheel 🎡 and I’m so glad I did! I loved discovering this author through Insta 📸 and finally diving in.
Paige has long felt like a spectator in her own life, living by others’ expectations until a nudge from her best friend and a bottle of wine lead her into the world of online dating 📱💕.
Meeting someone genuine, learning to believe in love again, and chasing her own path this story has all the softness, growth, and emotional beats I crave.
The characters felt real, the emotional moments were beautiful 🥹, and that balance of slow-burn romance + personal healing was just chef’s kiss 😍👌.
Just finished Heartstrings & Horizons the first pick off my new Once Upon a TBR wheel 🎡 and I’m so glad I did! I loved discovering this author through Insta 📸 and finally diving in.
Paige has long felt like a spectator in her own life, living by others’ expectations until a nudge from her best friend and a bottle of wine lead her into the world of online dating 📱💕.
Meeting someone genuine, learning to believe in love again, and chasing her own path this story has all the softness, growth, and emotional beats I crave.
The characters felt real, the emotional moments were beautiful 🥹, and that balance of slow-burn romance + personal healing was just chef’s kiss 😍👌.
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