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Gold Hill #1
Only Hope
Alison Hartmann is a woman with secrets no one wants her to keep. Gold Hill, with its idyllic setting is the perfect place to hide.
Light-hearted Hope Sullivan doesn’t see it that way. What else is a small town for if it isn’t about strong bonds and close community?
On a gloomy day by the lake, their lives collide, leading both women to wonder: is Gold Hill a haven or a bolthole? Can you ever really be safe?
An age gap, ice queen, small town contemporary sapphic romance from the author of Falls From Grace and Ribbonwood.
Light-hearted Hope Sullivan doesn’t see it that way. What else is a small town for if it isn’t about strong bonds and close community?
On a gloomy day by the lake, their lives collide, leading both women to wonder: is Gold Hill a haven or a bolthole? Can you ever really be safe?
An age gap, ice queen, small town contemporary sapphic romance from the author of Falls From Grace and Ribbonwood.
398 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2025
300 people are currently reading
2933 people want to read
About the author
Ruby Landers
7 books990 followersRuby Landers is an independent author of sapphic contemporary romance. She lives in Meanjin (Brisbane) Australia. As you’re reading this, she is either typing a million daydreamy words a minute, giving someone a thousand-yard stare while secretly working out a plot twist, having a deep conversation with anyone four-legged, bargaining with an expert kindergartner negotiator, or feeling wildly grateful she got to quit her day job. Either way, there’ll be coffee.
You can follow her at
Instagram @rubylandersauthor
You can follow her at
Instagram @rubylandersauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 266 reviews
March 1, 2025
4.5 Stars
I got an ARC.
Only Hope by Ruby Landers is an age gap, frosty ice queen, contemporary romance set in Australia.
The author is known (in my opinion) to create strong and relatable characters. Ruby Landers has an uncanny ability to forge an intimate relationship between characters and the reader. It’s what made her previous 5 books a hit and Only Hope is no different.
The opening scene itself was a big draw. It piqued my interest straight away which is always a good start, it sets the scene and the mood of the read. The conflicts in the story were interspersed evenly which kept the read interesting throughout. The pacing was consistent and I daresay the momentum in high stakes scenes were perfectly executed. However, I (my personal wish) would have loved a more in-depth background on Alison, her trauma and her healing process with the therapist. I also understand that that wasn’t part of the main artery of the story.
In summary, yes, it’s an age gap contemporary romance which has been written by hundreds if not thousands of writers. The difference is, Ruby Landers stories are unique in that, there’s just something extra, like an umami in food but in her writing. It’s hard to explain. She just has this vibe in her writing that makes me read every book she publishes. So, obviously highly recommended.
I got an ARC.
Only Hope by Ruby Landers is an age gap, frosty ice queen, contemporary romance set in Australia.
The author is known (in my opinion) to create strong and relatable characters. Ruby Landers has an uncanny ability to forge an intimate relationship between characters and the reader. It’s what made her previous 5 books a hit and Only Hope is no different.
The opening scene itself was a big draw. It piqued my interest straight away which is always a good start, it sets the scene and the mood of the read. The conflicts in the story were interspersed evenly which kept the read interesting throughout. The pacing was consistent and I daresay the momentum in high stakes scenes were perfectly executed. However, I (my personal wish) would have loved a more in-depth background on Alison, her trauma and her healing process with the therapist. I also understand that that wasn’t part of the main artery of the story.
In summary, yes, it’s an age gap contemporary romance which has been written by hundreds if not thousands of writers. The difference is, Ruby Landers stories are unique in that, there’s just something extra, like an umami in food but in her writing. It’s hard to explain. She just has this vibe in her writing that makes me read every book she publishes. So, obviously highly recommended.
October 18, 2025
The level of pining is absolutely unreal. Thank you Ruby for putting me out of my reading slump
****
I can read this over and OVER again and not get enough
****
I can read this over and OVER again and not get enough
April 7, 2025
My second Ruby Landers book in so many days. I think I have found my newest “must read” author. She has a gift for writing sapphic longing, chemistry and desire. I liked Ribbonwood a bit better. This one the pining and “we can’t possibly be together” phase went on a bit too long but it has quite the exciting climax at the end. Needless to say I am off to star another Ruby Landers book.
November 20, 2025
Oh WOW. This is pure gold. This author is amazing and I need to read the rest of their stuff relatively soon (I keep seeing people raving and then for some reason I just move along?). I don’t even know what to say; this novel had it all and then a bit more on top. The characters were DELIGHTFUL and their dynamics were enthralling. There was plot but it didn’t get in the way. I cant wait to read the sequel.
Rating: S / 5-Stars
Highlights:
-The writing was solid. Plainly and simply, this writing was a knock-out. I am sure there are a bunch of technical terms that apply but I’m just going to say that I loved it.
-This novel hooked me immediately, so there was no “waiting to get into it”. I was gone from the start, and it kept me engaged the entire time. I think this is one of many testaments to the great writing.
-Emotionally complex characters. Not just their backstory or situations, but their motivations and very beings.
-“I’m Hope, I live here” -If you know then you know.
-The banter and chemistry between the protagonists were perfect, delightful, and very engaging. In some instances there were entire pages of back-and-forth dialogue which can sometimes be a disaster, but in this case I wanted it to keep going on forever. These two did NOT suffer from a lack of chemistry, but the exact opposite in fact, lmao.
-THE FRIEND GROUP. What a delightfully wonderful and messy group of people. They were a disaster. They were delightful. Lovely. This was perfect. Anyone who wants to write “messy people” should read this novel as a reference.
-There was SO much tension throughout this entire novel, but I have never felt relaxed through/by it before! I was on edge the entire time yet it was pleasant and relaxing at the same time, so I enjoyed the whole process. This was a new experience. Bravo author.
-Therapy, yay!
-The relationship development was top of the line, high-quality stuff. Organic, believable, simple yet messy, and it had me locked in the entire novel.
-Throughout this novel I was WAITING for an absolute disaster to explode, and yet I was excited for it instead of dreading it. It’s like you know a car crash is coming but your just making sure you have popcorn.
-After the relatively pleasant first half I was not expecting to get the messiest mess that ever made a mess. I imagine that this is the feeling that people who watch reality TV enjoy, except probably a lot better because this was perfect.
Nitpicks:
-I was so confused by Allyson’s sexuality. Its quite poorly defined and handled in the first half, I think. Also, do lesbians typically love men and have “quite good sex” with them?
-A lot of this novel revolves around the protagonists resisting “something happening” and although it was explained I didn’t quite connect with why they decided on this. Seemed a bit… idk slightly forced plotline.
Rating: S / 5-Stars
Highlights:
-The writing was solid. Plainly and simply, this writing was a knock-out. I am sure there are a bunch of technical terms that apply but I’m just going to say that I loved it.
-This novel hooked me immediately, so there was no “waiting to get into it”. I was gone from the start, and it kept me engaged the entire time. I think this is one of many testaments to the great writing.
-Emotionally complex characters. Not just their backstory or situations, but their motivations and very beings.
-“I’m Hope, I live here” -If you know then you know.
-The banter and chemistry between the protagonists were perfect, delightful, and very engaging. In some instances there were entire pages of back-and-forth dialogue which can sometimes be a disaster, but in this case I wanted it to keep going on forever. These two did NOT suffer from a lack of chemistry, but the exact opposite in fact, lmao.
-THE FRIEND GROUP. What a delightfully wonderful and messy group of people. They were a disaster. They were delightful. Lovely. This was perfect. Anyone who wants to write “messy people” should read this novel as a reference.
-There was SO much tension throughout this entire novel, but I have never felt relaxed through/by it before! I was on edge the entire time yet it was pleasant and relaxing at the same time, so I enjoyed the whole process. This was a new experience. Bravo author.
-Therapy, yay!
-The relationship development was top of the line, high-quality stuff. Organic, believable, simple yet messy, and it had me locked in the entire novel.
-Throughout this novel I was WAITING for an absolute disaster to explode, and yet I was excited for it instead of dreading it. It’s like you know a car crash is coming but your just making sure you have popcorn.
-After the relatively pleasant first half I was not expecting to get the messiest mess that ever made a mess. I imagine that this is the feeling that people who watch reality TV enjoy, except probably a lot better because this was perfect.
Nitpicks:
-I was so confused by Allyson’s sexuality. Its quite poorly defined and handled in the first half, I think. Also, do lesbians typically love men and have “quite good sex” with them?
-A lot of this novel revolves around the protagonists resisting “something happening” and although it was explained I didn’t quite connect with why they decided on this. Seemed a bit… idk slightly forced plotline.
April 5, 2025
Oh…
I was rendered speechless and so happy. I am not ashamed to say that I started to reread it because it was hard to let go. I love a good ice queen as much as the next person and the slow burn was perfectly executed. The chemistry was off the charts and when the spice kicked in it was jaw-dropping and so hot. Age gap, slow burn, and ice queen? Say less. Happy reading!
I was rendered speechless and so happy. I am not ashamed to say that I started to reread it because it was hard to let go. I love a good ice queen as much as the next person and the slow burn was perfectly executed. The chemistry was off the charts and when the spice kicked in it was jaw-dropping and so hot. Age gap, slow burn, and ice queen? Say less. Happy reading!
June 29, 2025
4.5⭐️
Ruby Landers is slowly but surely becoming one of my favorite authors. Her multi-layered, entertaining, romantic but also exciting stories are captivating.
I'm looking forward to the next installment in this series.
Ruby Landers is slowly but surely becoming one of my favorite authors. Her multi-layered, entertaining, romantic but also exciting stories are captivating.
I'm looking forward to the next installment in this series.
April 23, 2025
I adore Ruby Landers and anything of hers is an auto-read for me. This book isn't my favorite among her work so far though; the multiple someone-is-in-love-with-someone-who's-in-love-with-someone-else angles just don't do it for me. Overall, still a solid read though, it's still feel-good and enjoyable.
April 15, 2025
Oh my god. And, if you think you can't fall for a couple more from Ruby Lander's books.... Well, I was so wrong.
An age gap slow burn romance that took my breath away after just a few pages. The slow burn has a perfect pace, even though I almost died at some points and my heart broke more than once. The attraction between Hope and Alsion was just so strong and I still wonder how they managed not to give in to it for so long. I could hardly stand it!!! How much chemistry can a couple possibly have? It really left me speechless. The structure of the story is definitely different from many other romances, so the slow burn effect is even stronger and there were still many surprises. Besides Hope and Alison, I just loved the friend group and Ruby, please, write another book about Camille and Prisha. I need it badly!!!
This book was just perfect! The ever growing attraction, the drama, angst, the love, the spice, the best friends and the slow burn. It is sooooo well written. Absolutely recommended reading!
An age gap slow burn romance that took my breath away after just a few pages. The slow burn has a perfect pace, even though I almost died at some points and my heart broke more than once. The attraction between Hope and Alsion was just so strong and I still wonder how they managed not to give in to it for so long. I could hardly stand it!!! How much chemistry can a couple possibly have? It really left me speechless. The structure of the story is definitely different from many other romances, so the slow burn effect is even stronger and there were still many surprises. Besides Hope and Alison, I just loved the friend group and Ruby, please, write another book about Camille and Prisha. I need it badly!!!
This book was just perfect! The ever growing attraction, the drama, angst, the love, the spice, the best friends and the slow burn. It is sooooo well written. Absolutely recommended reading!
March 4, 2025
⭐ 5 Stars
This book was so good, I couldn’t put it down !
It left me feeling overwhelmed in the best way. I needed a moment after finishing it to gather my thoughts. This was my first time reading one of this author’s books, and I can already say her other works are moving higher on my never-ending TBR list. The writing was amazing, and I loved how the plot kept surprising me. Nothing ever went exactly as I expected.
The chemistry between Hope and Alison was sizzling from the start, and it was so satisfying to see their connection deepen over time. The pacing was perfect, making me wish they’d stop being so responsible and just be together already ! The drama was well executed, always showing up when I least expected it. I also enjoyed their group of friends. While I didn’t fully connect with all of them, they were all lovable in their own way and added warmth to the story.
The only thing I missed was a couple more chapters to see Hope and Alison’s relationship blossom even further.
Overall, this book is absolutely worth reading. If you love small-town romances with plenty of drama and a cute group of friends, pick this one up. I’m definitely grabbing a paperback copy as soon as it’s available !
Thank you so much to Ruby Landers for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book was so good, I couldn’t put it down !
It left me feeling overwhelmed in the best way. I needed a moment after finishing it to gather my thoughts. This was my first time reading one of this author’s books, and I can already say her other works are moving higher on my never-ending TBR list. The writing was amazing, and I loved how the plot kept surprising me. Nothing ever went exactly as I expected.
The chemistry between Hope and Alison was sizzling from the start, and it was so satisfying to see their connection deepen over time. The pacing was perfect, making me wish they’d stop being so responsible and just be together already ! The drama was well executed, always showing up when I least expected it. I also enjoyed their group of friends. While I didn’t fully connect with all of them, they were all lovable in their own way and added warmth to the story.
The only thing I missed was a couple more chapters to see Hope and Alison’s relationship blossom even further.
Overall, this book is absolutely worth reading. If you love small-town romances with plenty of drama and a cute group of friends, pick this one up. I’m definitely grabbing a paperback copy as soon as it’s available !
Thank you so much to Ruby Landers for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2025
I enjoyed Only Hope very much, still my favorite by Ruby Landers are Saving Graces and Ribbonwood.
In Only Hope I liked a lot the banter and the fierce comebacks of Alison and her ice queen like character hiding an incredible fire. Hope... well Hope was indeed hopeless against her. Sweet, sweet character.
I am wondering whether this book will be also turned into a series. Not gonna spoil anything, but... I need to know more.
Ruby Landers is absolutely an insta-buy for me now.
In Only Hope I liked a lot the banter and the fierce comebacks of Alison and her ice queen like character hiding an incredible fire. Hope... well Hope was indeed hopeless against her. Sweet, sweet character.
I am wondering whether this book will be also turned into a series. Not gonna spoil anything, but... I need to know more.
Ruby Landers is absolutely an insta-buy for me now.
November 5, 2025
I adored reading this, I fell in love with Hope and Alison and their story. I really loved Alison’s character development and all the turns this story takes in general. And the pining!!! Oh my god! I loved that!!
I experienced moments where I gasped and laughed, smiled like an idiot and even cried.
It is a really great book and read. I recommend ♡
I experienced moments where I gasped and laughed, smiled like an idiot and even cried.
It is a really great book and read. I recommend ♡
April 10, 2025
4.5 that was a good ole angsty sapphic slowburn
June 1, 2025
Another winner from Ruby Landers! And miracle of miracles, it's an age gap (14 years in this case) that I enjoyed. It helps that the protagonists are fully-formed adults. And while the romance does work for me, mostly due to Landers' ability to write really great and witty dialogue, I was really into the other things happening in this novel, too. The drama of the friend group was so much fun (sorry to Hope's friends who are having a lot less fun than I was as a reader), so I'm glad this seems to be turning into a series because I want more of their drama. I also had a lot of fun with Alison's drama.
And then here's Hope, who is almost too good to be true: smart, stunning, funny, generous, brave, saviour of animals, and also adorably clueless.
I'm docking this one star because while I did like the romance, it wasn't quite fully formed enough for me. Or maybe there was too much reliance on physical chemistry rather than emotional intimacy, and I'm much more interested in the latter, and it wasn't quite there for me.
And then here's Hope, who is almost too good to be true: smart, stunning, funny, generous, brave, saviour of animals, and also adorably clueless.
I'm docking this one star because while I did like the romance, it wasn't quite fully formed enough for me. Or maybe there was too much reliance on physical chemistry rather than emotional intimacy, and I'm much more interested in the latter, and it wasn't quite there for me.
April 23, 2025
3.5⭐️ I have a lot of mixed feelings on this one. I felt both characters were just ok. Sam was such a player on the outside but underneath she was a good person and a great friend. Allison was a total ice queen because she was living in fear from her past life.
I did like the very intelligent banter between Hope and Allison. Hope was super smart and witty. Allison used to be a socialite and was quick witted.
I did like the very intelligent banter between Hope and Allison. Hope was super smart and witty. Allison used to be a socialite and was quick witted.
March 17, 2025
When Ruby Landers made the surprise offer of buying this book weeks before its wide release via her website, I couldn’t resist. She’s one of those indie sapphic authors that burst on the scene with a terrific trilogy right off the bat - followed by a stand-alone that proved she’s no flash in the pan.
The woman knows how to write serious chemistry - Alison and Hope have it in spades. I love how the author gives them time to truly get to know each other and not just act on the lust between them.
There’s a lot going on in this book - friendships, unrequited love, recovery from betrayal and a love of family and all are written beautifully. And my oh my - when it finally comes, the spice is sizzling.
I’ve become a huge fan of Landers’ work. Definitely auto-buy material. Pick this one up! You’ll be glad you did.
The woman knows how to write serious chemistry - Alison and Hope have it in spades. I love how the author gives them time to truly get to know each other and not just act on the lust between them.
There’s a lot going on in this book - friendships, unrequited love, recovery from betrayal and a love of family and all are written beautifully. And my oh my - when it finally comes, the spice is sizzling.
I’ve become a huge fan of Landers’ work. Definitely auto-buy material. Pick this one up! You’ll be glad you did.
March 5, 2025
As someone who absolutely devoured all of previous Ruby Lander’s books, Only Hope was obviously an anticipated read for me. And while the direction the story took surprised me, I flew through it with a record speed for a person that can’t get rid of a reading slump.
I love how there’s always a big focus on traumatized and wronged women in the author’s books. I say love because such themes deserve attention, and there’s nothing more beautiful than having to read about characters that were able to overcome it and find happiness. Only Hope wasn’t an exception.
From the first cold barb that came out of Alison’s mouth, I knew that I’m going to fall for this character most of all. While I wish we had more time with her inner thoughts and more in-depth processing of her trauma, I loved how she opened up as a character the more we learned about her. It was so nicely done, very gradual and reasonable. It’s not always the case with ice queens in books.
The chemistry between Alison and Hope, as usual, was off the charts. At times, it was so intense that I felt kind of heady.
The only thing that wasn’t really for me, and it’s really a me thing, is the drama. This novel was quite action-packed both literally and emotionally. And it wasn’t what I expected from the story, that’s why I think I so desperately wished to have more character time instead.
I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review
I love how there’s always a big focus on traumatized and wronged women in the author’s books. I say love because such themes deserve attention, and there’s nothing more beautiful than having to read about characters that were able to overcome it and find happiness. Only Hope wasn’t an exception.
From the first cold barb that came out of Alison’s mouth, I knew that I’m going to fall for this character most of all. While I wish we had more time with her inner thoughts and more in-depth processing of her trauma, I loved how she opened up as a character the more we learned about her. It was so nicely done, very gradual and reasonable. It’s not always the case with ice queens in books.
The chemistry between Alison and Hope, as usual, was off the charts. At times, it was so intense that I felt kind of heady.
The only thing that wasn’t really for me, and it’s really a me thing, is the drama. This novel was quite action-packed both literally and emotionally. And it wasn’t what I expected from the story, that’s why I think I so desperately wished to have more character time instead.
I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review
November 17, 2025
I was enjoying this until Alison admitted she'd known she was a lesbian for 15 years and then immediately followed up by saying she'd loved her ex-husband and that they'd had good sex. Lesbians don't fall in love with and enjoy sex with men 😒 Of course, plenty of lesbians suffer from comphet, and late in life lesbians are valid, but I didn't get the impression Alison was either of those.
January 21, 2026
I love Ruby Landers. Ribbonwood was one of my top reads of the year for 2024, and while Only Hope doesn't top it (I mean, that's a REALLY high bar), it's still a great novel. It's a slow burn age-gap romance between Hope, a small-town vet, and Alison, a...woman with a lot of secrets.
One of the things Landers excels at is believable, well-rounded characters, and this book is no exception. When Hope meets new resident Alison on a walk around the lake there's an instant connection. The banter between them is great, and although Hope is open and direct while Alison is closed off and avoidant (at least at first), they just click. The result is a really nice slow burn, with some delicious light dom/sub dynamics once the spice hits. There are also some great supporting characters with a found family vibe. I found myself really drawn in to a couple of them.
The pacing of the story was great, but I do think that I wanted a little more development on the emotional side of things between Hope and Alison. It was there, just not as deep as I wanted, and there were a few times when I felt like it was getting there but just didn't come to as satisfying of a conclusion as I would have liked. It's still a fabulous read, and I definitely recommend it!
I received a free ARC from the author, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
One of the things Landers excels at is believable, well-rounded characters, and this book is no exception. When Hope meets new resident Alison on a walk around the lake there's an instant connection. The banter between them is great, and although Hope is open and direct while Alison is closed off and avoidant (at least at first), they just click. The result is a really nice slow burn, with some delicious light dom/sub dynamics once the spice hits. There are also some great supporting characters with a found family vibe. I found myself really drawn in to a couple of them.
The pacing of the story was great, but I do think that I wanted a little more development on the emotional side of things between Hope and Alison. It was there, just not as deep as I wanted, and there were a few times when I felt like it was getting there but just didn't come to as satisfying of a conclusion as I would have liked. It's still a fabulous read, and I definitely recommend it!
I received a free ARC from the author, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
March 22, 2025
I love the first encounter. Hope is so likeable, even I was I love with her, she is perfect! I liked than how the relationship evolves from the start, with a big focus on their friendship tainted with sexual tension. If you love slow burn, you will love it! Throw in the mix a gang of queer goergous people and a good dose of unrequited love. What a mess it was, I was anxious and I admit, sometimes uncomfortable reading all these interactions, secrets and obvliousness. But it was highly enterntaining. Landers clearly lay the foundation for the Golden Hill series with endearing secondary characters (Prisha has my heart).
I wished to know more about Alison's past and trauma, maybe with flashbacks or scene with her getting therapy, or even more inner thoughts that showed how distressed she was. Her reasons for wanting to push Hope away at all costs were simultaneously obvious and not palpable enough for me. I felt her longing and loving feelings, but less so her fear of endangering Hope.
This book is further proof that Landers has a talent for drawing the reader in immediately and keeping them hooked until the end. The characters are layered, and I love how healing is a theme that Landers seems to cherish. I can't wait for Camille and Prisha's story.
I wished to know more about Alison's past and trauma, maybe with flashbacks or scene with her getting therapy, or even more inner thoughts that showed how distressed she was. Her reasons for wanting to push Hope away at all costs were simultaneously obvious and not palpable enough for me. I felt her longing and loving feelings, but less so her fear of endangering Hope.
This book is further proof that Landers has a talent for drawing the reader in immediately and keeping them hooked until the end. The characters are layered, and I love how healing is a theme that Landers seems to cherish. I can't wait for Camille and Prisha's story.
November 5, 2025
4.25 stars. I really enjoyed this!! Ruby Landers is an incredibly talented writer and it’s always a pleasure to read her books. While the whole book was good, I felt like it only really got *great* around the 60-65% mark. Before that, I at times I felt like (a) the story wasn’t really going anywhere, and (b) Hope was a little too pushy for my liking (I notice that this is a theme in Ruby Landers’ books…one of the mains is very pushy at times, which I don’t love, but that’s just me). But toward the end I really LOVED it. Alison Hartmann is so ridiculously hot, like oh my god, I’m so happy the romance dynamic turned how it did. 🔥 Alison and Hope’s love was so sweet, their tender interactions made me melt, and I was yelling at them to get their shit together and just surrender to the inevitable! I was even invested in the dynamics of Hope’s friend group…damn, what a disaster group of queers! 🤣 I can’t wait to return to Gold Hill and see what Estella gets up to in book 2!
November 18, 2025
"Alison's lived long enough now to know that nothing in this life is a guarantee, that happiness exists on a knife-edge, always teetering, never certain. But, she thinks, sometimes the difference is really just hope."
This was really good, and by really good I mean fantastic.
The dynamic between our two leads Alison and Hope feels incredibly similar to the one in Ribbonwood where we have one character who has gone through so much trauma and holds so much baggage that they don't feel like they can truly love and another who cares about them so deeply and shows them so much grace that it pushes them to break down their walls.
The only difference is that I thought that this was done exceptionally better.
The romance relies more on tender moments and the slow intimacy that friendship can bring to build what I thought was a really engrossing and emotional connection between our two FMCs
I loved the pacing and the way the side characters were implemented to move the plot forward through their own struggles with love and vulnerability, but also how much it helped develop Alison as a protagonist.
The story gives room for us to see both Alison's and Hope's flaws and strengths through their interaction with other characters and I loved every second of it. Landers knows how to write complexity mixed with interesting character development and background and worked really well to allow these characters to have a really blossoming and heartfelt connection.
The only strong criticism that I do have is that I find that with Ruby Landers' characters, she sometimes lets them off too easily. This book opened up a lot of moments for heartbreak and growth between our characters, but there were many times especially towards the end when I felt like we were missing important conversations and key moments between our characters in order to fully close this story. It's like no one had to face real consequences and I don't mean this in a punishing sense, but more like truly being open and accountable with one's actions and feelings.
I overall love Ruby Landers' writing. It's witty and captivating, with well-established and thought-provoking characters and sizzling chemistry seeping off the pages and I can't wait to read what else she has in store for this series.
4.5 Stars rounded up 🌟🌟🌟🌟✨️
This was really good, and by really good I mean fantastic.
The dynamic between our two leads Alison and Hope feels incredibly similar to the one in Ribbonwood where we have one character who has gone through so much trauma and holds so much baggage that they don't feel like they can truly love and another who cares about them so deeply and shows them so much grace that it pushes them to break down their walls.
The only difference is that I thought that this was done exceptionally better.
The romance relies more on tender moments and the slow intimacy that friendship can bring to build what I thought was a really engrossing and emotional connection between our two FMCs
I loved the pacing and the way the side characters were implemented to move the plot forward through their own struggles with love and vulnerability, but also how much it helped develop Alison as a protagonist.
The story gives room for us to see both Alison's and Hope's flaws and strengths through their interaction with other characters and I loved every second of it. Landers knows how to write complexity mixed with interesting character development and background and worked really well to allow these characters to have a really blossoming and heartfelt connection.
The only strong criticism that I do have is that I find that with Ruby Landers' characters, she sometimes lets them off too easily. This book opened up a lot of moments for heartbreak and growth between our characters, but there were many times especially towards the end when I felt like we were missing important conversations and key moments between our characters in order to fully close this story. It's like no one had to face real consequences and I don't mean this in a punishing sense, but more like truly being open and accountable with one's actions and feelings.
I overall love Ruby Landers' writing. It's witty and captivating, with well-established and thought-provoking characters and sizzling chemistry seeping off the pages and I can't wait to read what else she has in store for this series.
4.5 Stars rounded up 🌟🌟🌟🌟✨️
November 20, 2025
Only Hope is another home run for Ruby Landers. For me, she has quickly become an auto-read author.
Hope, a small-town veterinarian, inserts herself into the life of a wealthy older woman with ties to the mob. Alison moves to escape after her life publicly implodes and becomes the subject of a television show that airs all her dirty laundry.
Younger, confident, and surprisingly direct, Hope shows Alison what has been missing from her life.
Only Hope, like the author's other hit Ribbonwood, is layered and complex and has unexpected twists. It is engaging, passionate, fun, and full of slow-burn chemistry and a bit of the unexpected. Alison's trauma is the obstacle between them, but the sparks may be too much to contain. They are supported by a strong, quirky, disaster of a found family that adds another layer of drama.
Landers has a writing style that is just so, so good. It is easy to follow, clever, and hilarious. The banter is witty and flirty, and the setting descriptions are on point.
Kudos for the pansexual and vegan representation; tattoos are sexy, and there is very light dom/sub play. This book includes a great mix of tropes—troping as they do—that are some of my favorites, such as slow-burn, friends-to-lovers, small-town, ice queen, age-gap, and more.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and I highly recommend it. It is long in page count but short in read-time because I couldn't put it down. Who needs sleep anyway?
#icequeen #agegap #celebrity #slowburn #slothburn #spicey #dom/sub #wittybanter #femme/femme #tattoos #veterinarian #smalltown #Australia #friendstolovers #vegan #pansexual #foundfamily #divorcedcharacter #maincharactersover30 #startingover #sapphicromance #HEA
I received this ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
Hope, a small-town veterinarian, inserts herself into the life of a wealthy older woman with ties to the mob. Alison moves to escape after her life publicly implodes and becomes the subject of a television show that airs all her dirty laundry.
Younger, confident, and surprisingly direct, Hope shows Alison what has been missing from her life.
Only Hope, like the author's other hit Ribbonwood, is layered and complex and has unexpected twists. It is engaging, passionate, fun, and full of slow-burn chemistry and a bit of the unexpected. Alison's trauma is the obstacle between them, but the sparks may be too much to contain. They are supported by a strong, quirky, disaster of a found family that adds another layer of drama.
Landers has a writing style that is just so, so good. It is easy to follow, clever, and hilarious. The banter is witty and flirty, and the setting descriptions are on point.
Kudos for the pansexual and vegan representation; tattoos are sexy, and there is very light dom/sub play. This book includes a great mix of tropes—troping as they do—that are some of my favorites, such as slow-burn, friends-to-lovers, small-town, ice queen, age-gap, and more.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and I highly recommend it. It is long in page count but short in read-time because I couldn't put it down. Who needs sleep anyway?
#icequeen #agegap #celebrity #slowburn #slothburn #spicey #dom/sub #wittybanter #femme/femme #tattoos #veterinarian #smalltown #Australia #friendstolovers #vegan #pansexual #foundfamily #divorcedcharacter #maincharactersover30 #startingover #sapphicromance #HEA
I received this ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
March 20, 2025
I am absolutely obsessed with this book! I loved everything. The sizzling chemistry. Their banter. The slow burn that didn’t disappoint. I loved the main characters and all the side characters in the friend group. I loved the pacing and the plot. I can’t recommend this one enough! 🔥 This was my first Ruby Landers book and excuse me while I go reread her entire backlog.
Pub Date: April 4th, 2025
Thank you to the author for a copy of this eARC.
Pub Date: April 4th, 2025
Thank you to the author for a copy of this eARC.
November 19, 2025
I loved this. Great narrative from start to finish.
The wine bar scene early on, genius writing letting the characters develop out so naturally with humour.
The simmering chemistry between Alison and Hope. And then the 'yearning' was off the scale. The rich detailed side characters added balance.
The story telling... drama ...everything was well ...just class.
Laudate for Landers.
The wine bar scene early on, genius writing letting the characters develop out so naturally with humour.
The simmering chemistry between Alison and Hope. And then the 'yearning' was off the scale. The rich detailed side characters added balance.
The story telling... drama ...everything was well ...just class.
Laudate for Landers.
May 17, 2025
Okay about 75% through this book I was sure I’d be giving it 4 stars, and then I reached the end… after dreamily staring at my ceiling with a loopy smile on my face for several minutes, I now know it’s a 5. Ruby Landers, you are a master at storytelling. I will literally read anything and everything you write. Now, I’m going to process my thoughts and hopefully come back with more coherent sentences ✨
Edit: So I did almost rate this book lower simply because it was such a slow burn and the levels of angst and just pure messiness amongst the friend group had me feeling frustrated with the lack of romantic progress between Alison and Hope, and also just anxious for a large chunk of the book waiting for things to blow up in their group. That and having to hear about Hope seeing other people because Alison could only offer friendship, and then having months go by in the book with not much happening between them was difficult. And yet, I could not stop reading. Then, in the last 20% of the book, Landers had me completely forgetting why I was ever frustrated in the first place and back to giggling and swooning like a schoolgirl. It was just so worth it once Alison and Hope finally got together, their love so sweet and the spice so damn hot that by the end of it my heart was back to feeling so full I couldn't wipe the dreamy smile off my face if I tried.
Overall if you don't mind an extra slow burn and you enjoy ice queens with hidden soft sides, fun flirty banter, messy but lovable friend groups and delicious tension between the MCs, I would highly recommend this! Cannot wait for the next book in this series :)
Edit: So I did almost rate this book lower simply because it was such a slow burn and the levels of angst and just pure messiness amongst the friend group had me feeling frustrated with the lack of romantic progress between Alison and Hope, and also just anxious for a large chunk of the book waiting for things to blow up in their group. That and having to hear about Hope seeing other people because Alison could only offer friendship, and then having months go by in the book with not much happening between them was difficult. And yet, I could not stop reading. Then, in the last 20% of the book, Landers had me completely forgetting why I was ever frustrated in the first place and back to giggling and swooning like a schoolgirl. It was just so worth it once Alison and Hope finally got together, their love so sweet and the spice so damn hot that by the end of it my heart was back to feeling so full I couldn't wipe the dreamy smile off my face if I tried.
Overall if you don't mind an extra slow burn and you enjoy ice queens with hidden soft sides, fun flirty banter, messy but lovable friend groups and delicious tension between the MCs, I would highly recommend this! Cannot wait for the next book in this series :)
August 24, 2025
I fucking loved this.
It was messy, it was fun, and I had the best time reading it.
rep: pansexual mc, lesbian mc.
It was messy, it was fun, and I had the best time reading it.
rep: pansexual mc, lesbian mc.
March 4, 2025
4.5 stars ⭐️
Absolutely obsessed!!!!
Received this as an ARC and utterly devoured it in three days. It was so gripping. The romance was gorgeous, the yearning was absolutely delicious.
I recently read the first book in Ruby Landers’ Falls from Grace series and jumped eagerly at the chance to read Only Hope before the upcoming release. So glad I did! Loved every moment of this story. Not only the romance between Hope and Alison, which was so captivating, but also all of the character dynamics between this found family-esque friendship group. The premise of it also had me locked in. It was so fun to explore that drama of it all. A mobster plot inside of a small town sapphic romance? So much fun. A near death experience prompting a love confession? Had me giggling and kicking my feet if that’s an appropriate reaction?
Definitely need to get into Landers’ other stories. If they’re even a fraction as enticing as this one then you’ve got a long time reader hooked!
Absolutely obsessed!!!!
Received this as an ARC and utterly devoured it in three days. It was so gripping. The romance was gorgeous, the yearning was absolutely delicious.
I recently read the first book in Ruby Landers’ Falls from Grace series and jumped eagerly at the chance to read Only Hope before the upcoming release. So glad I did! Loved every moment of this story. Not only the romance between Hope and Alison, which was so captivating, but also all of the character dynamics between this found family-esque friendship group. The premise of it also had me locked in. It was so fun to explore that drama of it all. A mobster plot inside of a small town sapphic romance? So much fun. A near death experience prompting a love confession? Had me giggling and kicking my feet if that’s an appropriate reaction?
Definitely need to get into Landers’ other stories. If they’re even a fraction as enticing as this one then you’ve got a long time reader hooked!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2025
4.3 ⭐️ Insane levels of sapphic pining and some truly divine spice. Ruby Landers’ writing eternally has me in a chokehold and I’m not mad about it.
I’ll be honest I did hold off on reading this one because I wasn’t really sure that I would like it given the blurb. Lord was I wrong. I’ve come to realise that Ruby could write the ingredients on a cereal packet and I’d be captivated by it.
The levels of pining, jealousy, and slowburn longing are wild in this. It was sweet torture. Holy crap.
It is more angsty than Ruby’s other works and more drama heavy, but I didn’t mind that. In fact I really loved the drama aspects. It’s a town of very messy gays.
(There is an age-gap and it’s 31 & 45.)
Rep// Pansexual woman MC, Lesbian woman MC, Sapphic SCs, MLM SC, Trans man SC. Central romance is WLW/Sapphic.
TWs listed below, please skip if you don’t want vague spoilers.
TW// alcohol, threats of violence, mob themes, guns, murder off page, cheating (past), sex on page, vomiting, past relationship with age/power imbalance, non consensual kiss.
Spice CWs// Multiple sex scenes on page, slight domme themes, praise, semi-public sex.
I’ll be honest I did hold off on reading this one because I wasn’t really sure that I would like it given the blurb. Lord was I wrong. I’ve come to realise that Ruby could write the ingredients on a cereal packet and I’d be captivated by it.
The levels of pining, jealousy, and slowburn longing are wild in this. It was sweet torture. Holy crap.
It is more angsty than Ruby’s other works and more drama heavy, but I didn’t mind that. In fact I really loved the drama aspects. It’s a town of very messy gays.
(There is an age-gap and it’s 31 & 45.)
Rep// Pansexual woman MC, Lesbian woman MC, Sapphic SCs, MLM SC, Trans man SC. Central romance is WLW/Sapphic.
TWs listed below, please skip if you don’t want vague spoilers.
TW// alcohol, threats of violence, mob themes, guns, murder off page, cheating (past), sex on page, vomiting, past relationship with age/power imbalance, non consensual kiss.
Spice CWs// Multiple sex scenes on page, slight domme themes, praise, semi-public sex.
December 31, 2025
4.5⭐️
Just reread and about to start The Counterpart
Just reread and about to start The Counterpart
October 6, 2025
Only Hope
A slow-burn that sizzles from the beginning. Small-town romance with a great friend group, tons of sexual tension, a little lingering danger, and an intense longing between the two FMCs. Honestly, it's adorable to see Hope and Alison try to be friends. I mean, they pull it off, but it's also obvious that they want each other. Oh, and all the drama in the end literally had me kicking my feet in the air! This book was awesome!
A slow-burn that sizzles from the beginning. Small-town romance with a great friend group, tons of sexual tension, a little lingering danger, and an intense longing between the two FMCs. Honestly, it's adorable to see Hope and Alison try to be friends. I mean, they pull it off, but it's also obvious that they want each other. Oh, and all the drama in the end literally had me kicking my feet in the air! This book was awesome!
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