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Bleeding Hearts
Nolan is the biggest grump I’ve ever met. He also happens to be extremely fit, incredibly attractive, and a local firefighter. And wouldn’t you know it, he’s my neighbor?
Even with a frown permanently etched on his handsome face, I’m reluctant to admit he’s the most considerate man on the planet. And since my accident, his unflinching desire to do the right thing has lifted my spirits and provoked some interesting dreams. Watching him work, drenched in sweat, no man should look that delicious while serving my every need.
Don’t get me wrong, I have no complaints.
Okay, I have one.
I’m single—by choice. In my experience, men are unreliable. I don’t need a man messing with my independent mojo.
Someone please tell me why I’m letting this strong, assertive, bona fide hero convince me to give him a fighting chance.
Must be the concussion, it’s the only logical explanation.
Even with a frown permanently etched on his handsome face, I’m reluctant to admit he’s the most considerate man on the planet. And since my accident, his unflinching desire to do the right thing has lifted my spirits and provoked some interesting dreams. Watching him work, drenched in sweat, no man should look that delicious while serving my every need.
Don’t get me wrong, I have no complaints.
Okay, I have one.
I’m single—by choice. In my experience, men are unreliable. I don’t need a man messing with my independent mojo.
Someone please tell me why I’m letting this strong, assertive, bona fide hero convince me to give him a fighting chance.
Must be the concussion, it’s the only logical explanation.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2025
4 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
About the author
C.R. Riley
32 books97 followersC. R. Riley doesn’t believe in rules when it comes to romance. Her books are bold, emotional, and unapologetically steamy, spanning tropes like enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, secret pasts, and forbidden attraction. What ties them all together? Deep emotional connection, crackling sexual tension, and characters who love like it’s the only thing keeping them alive.
Writing across sub-genres, C. R. thrives in the chaos of big emotions, tough choices, and the kind of love that doesn’t come easy—but always feels earned. Her goal is simple: give readers stories they feel in their chest and remember long after the final page.
Writing across sub-genres, C. R. thrives in the chaos of big emotions, tough choices, and the kind of love that doesn’t come easy—but always feels earned. Her goal is simple: give readers stories they feel in their chest and remember long after the final page.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
May 29, 2025
I didn’t know what to expect when I started this book, but I ended up loving it so much. The characters feel super real, like people you could actually know. There’s a perfect mix of serious moments and funny, sweet scenes that make you smile. One of the things I enjoyed the most is how everyone has a role, and you can really get the family vibe. There’s also a lot of emotion, not only romance, and that made the story even more touching for me. Recommended. Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving a honest review
May 24, 2025
**A Great Love Story**
"Bleeding Hearts" is the delightful first book in the *Hearts of Savannah* series! It takes you on an emotional journey of love and healing, leading to a heartwarming happily ever after. Meet Bethany, a strong and independent single mom raising her twin teenage boys, Finn and Felix. As a university professor, she lights up the world around her—especially with her Christmas lights that stay up all year long, even if they annoy her grumpy next-door neighbor!
Then there's Nolan, her neighbor, a widower with two sweet daughters, Mollie (4) and Kellie (11). He’s a firefighter who often keeps his softer side hidden under his tough exterior. For years, Bethany and Nolan have enjoyed a playful relationship filled with flirty banter, but after a car accident turns their worlds upside down, they discover that their feelings for each other are impossible to ignore.
As Nolan starts to chip away at the walls Bethany has built around her heart, tension rises. Will she run away when things start to heat up, or will she embrace the love that’s blossoming between them?
The author does a fantastic job of creating relatable characters that face everyday challenges of parenting while diving into deeper themes like loss and healing. The slow-burn romance between Bethany and Nolan, combined with a fast-paced storyline packed with drama, makes this an engaging read you won't want to put down! Plus, the sense of found family and unwavering support among friends is heartwarming and uplifting. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to see what happens next. Until then, happy reading!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"Bleeding Hearts" is the delightful first book in the *Hearts of Savannah* series! It takes you on an emotional journey of love and healing, leading to a heartwarming happily ever after. Meet Bethany, a strong and independent single mom raising her twin teenage boys, Finn and Felix. As a university professor, she lights up the world around her—especially with her Christmas lights that stay up all year long, even if they annoy her grumpy next-door neighbor!
Then there's Nolan, her neighbor, a widower with two sweet daughters, Mollie (4) and Kellie (11). He’s a firefighter who often keeps his softer side hidden under his tough exterior. For years, Bethany and Nolan have enjoyed a playful relationship filled with flirty banter, but after a car accident turns their worlds upside down, they discover that their feelings for each other are impossible to ignore.
As Nolan starts to chip away at the walls Bethany has built around her heart, tension rises. Will she run away when things start to heat up, or will she embrace the love that’s blossoming between them?
The author does a fantastic job of creating relatable characters that face everyday challenges of parenting while diving into deeper themes like loss and healing. The slow-burn romance between Bethany and Nolan, combined with a fast-paced storyline packed with drama, makes this an engaging read you won't want to put down! Plus, the sense of found family and unwavering support among friends is heartwarming and uplifting. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to see what happens next. Until then, happy reading!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2025
C.R. Riley has rewritten the rules for suspense, angst and passion again.
I was stunned by this book, I could not believe how wonderfully written the flow of the book was, the spice and the witty banter between the main characters and the people around them.
The interaction between the main characters was flawless, creative and realistic, parallel how a normal relationship will go.
We often find these very pretty relationships in our romance books, they are nothing like how real life is. She was able to show the normal flow of the ups and downs of life in a relationship and still add in the delightful things we all look for in one of our romances. I mean how can you not want the suspense and the pure joy of the wonderfully choreographed story?
CR Riley’s mastery of wonderful spice really came shining out brightly in this book. Nolan and Beth had some of the hottest chemistry (and explosive reaction in the moment, slow and loving or quick (no spoilers) I’ve ever seen her write.
I don’t think I’ll ever look at Christmas lights the same way again.
I loved how the family became blended, but they had their struggles, It’s not the “oh there you are kind of thing” although I adored how the boys instantly became big brothers in feeling to the girls. (Read it yourself)
This is an absolute 10 out of 10, the spice is a 10 out of 10 and it’s a complete must read.
Do yourself a favour and don’t miss it.
I was stunned by this book, I could not believe how wonderfully written the flow of the book was, the spice and the witty banter between the main characters and the people around them.
The interaction between the main characters was flawless, creative and realistic, parallel how a normal relationship will go.
We often find these very pretty relationships in our romance books, they are nothing like how real life is. She was able to show the normal flow of the ups and downs of life in a relationship and still add in the delightful things we all look for in one of our romances. I mean how can you not want the suspense and the pure joy of the wonderfully choreographed story?
CR Riley’s mastery of wonderful spice really came shining out brightly in this book. Nolan and Beth had some of the hottest chemistry (and explosive reaction in the moment, slow and loving or quick (no spoilers) I’ve ever seen her write.
I don’t think I’ll ever look at Christmas lights the same way again.
I loved how the family became blended, but they had their struggles, It’s not the “oh there you are kind of thing” although I adored how the boys instantly became big brothers in feeling to the girls. (Read it yourself)
This is an absolute 10 out of 10, the spice is a 10 out of 10 and it’s a complete must read.
Do yourself a favour and don’t miss it.
June 10, 2025
Whew, are you looking for a story with a rollercoaster of emotions? Then Nolan & Bethany’s story is the perfect fit!
He is a single dad with two beautiful daughters, who lost his wife three yrs ago. He is wondering if he will ever be able to give his heart to another person & shows his girls it’s ok to move on.
She is a single mom of twin teenage boys who are a handful in a slightly helpful way! Ha. She isn’t looking for any kind of relationship after unloading the baggage of her loser ex.
This couple are the perfect grumpy firefighter and mostly sunshine Christmas loving professor & oh my gosh the banter between the two is hilarious! Not just between them, but with the four kids as well as their friends & siblings! Seriously funny stuff on these pages!
I felt each emotion, from Nolan’s grief in losing his life partner & Beth’s emotional baggage from her dad’s infidelities. To learning to be teenagers & pushing their boundaries. To the laugh out loud moments & damn was this book steamy as hell! Spicy, spicy!! The side characters in this story were every bit as necessary as the mains, even the weasely Stewart’s, you’ll understand when you pick up this book to read! Enjoy!
He is a single dad with two beautiful daughters, who lost his wife three yrs ago. He is wondering if he will ever be able to give his heart to another person & shows his girls it’s ok to move on.
She is a single mom of twin teenage boys who are a handful in a slightly helpful way! Ha. She isn’t looking for any kind of relationship after unloading the baggage of her loser ex.
This couple are the perfect grumpy firefighter and mostly sunshine Christmas loving professor & oh my gosh the banter between the two is hilarious! Not just between them, but with the four kids as well as their friends & siblings! Seriously funny stuff on these pages!
I felt each emotion, from Nolan’s grief in losing his life partner & Beth’s emotional baggage from her dad’s infidelities. To learning to be teenagers & pushing their boundaries. To the laugh out loud moments & damn was this book steamy as hell! Spicy, spicy!! The side characters in this story were every bit as necessary as the mains, even the weasely Stewart’s, you’ll understand when you pick up this book to read! Enjoy!
June 11, 2025
A light hearted romance with two next door neighbors: Bethany, a college professor & mom to twin teenage boys and Nolan, a firefighter and widower with two girls.
Living across the street from each other for a couple of years, their friendly & flirty banter kept both of them on their toes, each secretly wondering “what if”.
Bethany gets into a car accident and Nolan is the one of the first responders on the scene. As Bethany recovers from her accident, sparks fly between both of them and it’s hard for them to ignore it.
What I loved about this book is that the characters were relatable from the start! Nolan struggles with grieving the loss of his wife and closing himself off to finding love again and Bethany guarding her heart to prevent from being disappointed yet again. Both of them experiencing & connecting with each other on the struggles of being single parents.
This was a great read and a nice departure from the dark romance books I usually read.
✅Grumpy Sunshine ☀️
✅Reverse Age Gap
✅Single Parents
✅Slow Burn 🔥
✅Spicy 🌶️
✅Blended Family
Living across the street from each other for a couple of years, their friendly & flirty banter kept both of them on their toes, each secretly wondering “what if”.
Bethany gets into a car accident and Nolan is the one of the first responders on the scene. As Bethany recovers from her accident, sparks fly between both of them and it’s hard for them to ignore it.
What I loved about this book is that the characters were relatable from the start! Nolan struggles with grieving the loss of his wife and closing himself off to finding love again and Bethany guarding her heart to prevent from being disappointed yet again. Both of them experiencing & connecting with each other on the struggles of being single parents.
This was a great read and a nice departure from the dark romance books I usually read.
✅Grumpy Sunshine ☀️
✅Reverse Age Gap
✅Single Parents
✅Slow Burn 🔥
✅Spicy 🌶️
✅Blended Family
May 29, 2025
Hearts of Savannah #1
Nolan Archer is 30, a firefighter and a widower with two daughters 11 & 4. He's very set in his ways, grumpy except with his girls and driving his neighbor nuts about taking down her Christmas lights well after Christmas.
Dr. Bethany Rogan is 38, a clinical Psychologist, college professor and the Department Chair and a single mom to twin fifteen year old boys. She's very independent and enjoys annoying her neighbor with her Christmas lights that are up year round.
Things change when Nolan is called to respond to a traffic accident with injuries and realizes it's Bethany's car and she's the one injured. He steps up to help her out not just with things around her house but also with her boys. She starts getting close with his daughters as well.
She's not one for relationships and he's still healing from the death of his wife. The sparks between them turn into something more but is it enough?
There's also some suspense thrown in.
4 stars
Nolan Archer is 30, a firefighter and a widower with two daughters 11 & 4. He's very set in his ways, grumpy except with his girls and driving his neighbor nuts about taking down her Christmas lights well after Christmas.
Dr. Bethany Rogan is 38, a clinical Psychologist, college professor and the Department Chair and a single mom to twin fifteen year old boys. She's very independent and enjoys annoying her neighbor with her Christmas lights that are up year round.
Things change when Nolan is called to respond to a traffic accident with injuries and realizes it's Bethany's car and she's the one injured. He steps up to help her out not just with things around her house but also with her boys. She starts getting close with his daughters as well.
She's not one for relationships and he's still healing from the death of his wife. The sparks between them turn into something more but is it enough?
There's also some suspense thrown in.
4 stars
June 18, 2025
Bleeding Hearts
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Synopsis:
Bethany lives across the street from the guy she thinks is the biggest grumpiest man ever. When she has an accident at the hands of a reckless young man, she finds that he is the most considerate man ever. Bethany does not believe in forever-after's and Nolan's loss of his wife from post partum depression gives him pause to having a relationship with anyone.
My Thoughts:
This book has so much character. Yes, I said that. The book has character. The real life scenarios of post partum depression that many women face, the loss of a loved one, a traumatic car accident, a mass shooting and even suicidal thoughts -- it has it all, all wrapped up in a cover to cover page turning, five-star read! It doesn't get much better than this. Oh - wait! It does! It's got comedy! This book has some very witty/funny moments in it that makes is such a great read. Don't believe me? Read it for yourself!
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Synopsis:
Bethany lives across the street from the guy she thinks is the biggest grumpiest man ever. When she has an accident at the hands of a reckless young man, she finds that he is the most considerate man ever. Bethany does not believe in forever-after's and Nolan's loss of his wife from post partum depression gives him pause to having a relationship with anyone.
My Thoughts:
This book has so much character. Yes, I said that. The book has character. The real life scenarios of post partum depression that many women face, the loss of a loved one, a traumatic car accident, a mass shooting and even suicidal thoughts -- it has it all, all wrapped up in a cover to cover page turning, five-star read! It doesn't get much better than this. Oh - wait! It does! It's got comedy! This book has some very witty/funny moments in it that makes is such a great read. Don't believe me? Read it for yourself!
June 3, 2025
Grumpy firefighter ✅
Grieving widower ✅
Wounded professor with a tragic past ✅
Slow-burn, emotional tension? Absolutely. 😭❤️🔥
Bethany is a professor recovering from a traumatic car accident—and the person who hit her won’t leave her or her family alone. Nolan, a brooding firefighter haunted by the loss of his wife, has no intention of falling in love again… until Bethany crashes into his life (literally and emotionally). 💔🚒📚
This book is all about healing, found family, and that deep, aching kind of love that sneaks up on you. C.R. Riley writes emotional tension so well it’ll make your chest hurt. Think grumpy/sunshine with real emotional stakes. 👏
If you love: ✨ Slow-burn romance
✨ Broken characters finding light
✨ Protective MMCs & smart, strong FMCs
✨ A little angst and a lot of heart...
You’ll fall hard for this one. 🖤
Grieving widower ✅
Wounded professor with a tragic past ✅
Slow-burn, emotional tension? Absolutely. 😭❤️🔥
Bethany is a professor recovering from a traumatic car accident—and the person who hit her won’t leave her or her family alone. Nolan, a brooding firefighter haunted by the loss of his wife, has no intention of falling in love again… until Bethany crashes into his life (literally and emotionally). 💔🚒📚
This book is all about healing, found family, and that deep, aching kind of love that sneaks up on you. C.R. Riley writes emotional tension so well it’ll make your chest hurt. Think grumpy/sunshine with real emotional stakes. 👏
If you love: ✨ Slow-burn romance
✨ Broken characters finding light
✨ Protective MMCs & smart, strong FMCs
✨ A little angst and a lot of heart...
You’ll fall hard for this one. 🖤
June 10, 2025
CR always writes amazing characters dealing with life challenges who find their “one” and have amazing HEA’s
Bethany is a single mom who works as a professor. She has been “watching her neighbor” but never acted on her feelings. An accident brings them closer together and she can no longer hide the way she feels about him.
Nolan is a single dad who’s also a firefighter…he comes across a little grumpy but then he shows his soft side to those he cares about. As a situation unfolds with Bethany…he becomes fiercely protective.
You cannot help but love these two. The banter, flirting and teasing is fantastic! Their chemistry and passion will light up your kindle. The kids are great too.
You will have all the feels while reading this book …along with laughing out loud and fanning your face!
Bethany is a single mom who works as a professor. She has been “watching her neighbor” but never acted on her feelings. An accident brings them closer together and she can no longer hide the way she feels about him.
Nolan is a single dad who’s also a firefighter…he comes across a little grumpy but then he shows his soft side to those he cares about. As a situation unfolds with Bethany…he becomes fiercely protective.
You cannot help but love these two. The banter, flirting and teasing is fantastic! Their chemistry and passion will light up your kindle. The kids are great too.
You will have all the feels while reading this book …along with laughing out loud and fanning your face!
May 26, 2025
Bethany is determined she doesn't need anyone in her life permanently. Things get close and she runs.
Nolan lost his wife, Stephanie, 3 years ago. He is now raising their 2 daughters alone. He is known for being grumpy except where his daughters are concerned.
Nolan is called to a rescue to find Bethany has been in a serious accident. Things develop quickly, but can Nolan change Bethany's belief that she is better off alone.
I really liked Nolan and the way he includes Stephanie in his life, especially at the start of the book. His daughter, Mollie, steals every scene she appears in.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
Nolan lost his wife, Stephanie, 3 years ago. He is now raising their 2 daughters alone. He is known for being grumpy except where his daughters are concerned.
Nolan is called to a rescue to find Bethany has been in a serious accident. Things develop quickly, but can Nolan change Bethany's belief that she is better off alone.
I really liked Nolan and the way he includes Stephanie in his life, especially at the start of the book. His daughter, Mollie, steals every scene she appears in.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
June 4, 2025
Bethany is a single mom with twin teenage sons, and she happened to be neighbors with Nolan. A widowed father of 2 little girls. Did I mention he’s a firefighter? So when Bethany is involved in a wreck, he’s a first responder. She knows him as the grumpy neighbor, so when he makes plans to help her after her wreck, she’s a little surprised. And so is he. Soon their relationship goes from grumping at each other to being unable to fight their obvious attraction to each other. But Bethany has never wanted a serious relationship, and Nolan isn’t sure he’s ready to move on after his wife’s death. I loved their banter and how their relationship grew. Solid 5 Star read!
June 12, 2025
I loved this book! C. R. Riley is a favorite author of mine and the stories are always so beautifully well written as well as involve real people with real situations. The first book in the Hearts of Savannah series, Nolan is a firefighter whose grumpy exterior immediately turns off his neighbor, Bethany. But after she gets into a pretty shaky car accident and needs help recovering, he immediately steps up and helps her out. He’s dealing with the loss of his wife a few years ago and she has two teenage boys she’s raising as a single mom with no time or interest in romance, but sparks fly between them. A fantastic novel and highly recommend!
June 7, 2025
Loved this reverse age gap! Bethany & Nolan are a perfect spit fire meets grump with sparks flying. Both parents to two kids each, he a widower firefighter & her a never married college professor, live across the street from each other. They have great snarky spicy banter that leads to major spice in the bedroom. Their kids are sweet & way too smart for their own good. Lots of drama and deaths/accidents/jerkwads in their pasts & lives but it was a fun quick read. I want more of Alicia & Dillon as well as Cora & Geoff. Very complete world. Enjoyed it!
June 4, 2025
What can say? I’m in love with Nolan Archer. Holy hotness Batman! He can make my firefighter fantasies come true anytime!!!
I loved this book. The writing was great! The story was great! I’m normally not a fan of breakups in a book but this one flowed well with the story line.
The story does contain some sensitive subject matter that may be triggering for some so check before you read this book.
I loved this book. The writing was great! The story was great! I’m normally not a fan of breakups in a book but this one flowed well with the story line.
The story does contain some sensitive subject matter that may be triggering for some so check before you read this book.
June 11, 2025
This book was absolute chefs kiss amazing! Grumpy neighbor who is a fire fighter and she is a professor! There is a age gap and SHE is the older one!! You will absolutely love the Witty Banter between the 2 of them. She has had feelings for him but never pursued the feelings! This book is a absolute rollercoaster but you will love every moment of it!!! I cannot stop recommending this amazing book! C.R Riley is a amazing author!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 12, 2025
This book was a great read! I was hooked on this story within the first chapter. The slow burn between Nolan and Bethany really draws you into the story and has you dying to know what happens between them. The sense of found family shown throughout the story helped round out the story and added so much to it. This story felt more realistic than other romances which made it even more enjoyable to read!
May 28, 2025
Bleeding Hearts is the first book in the new Hearts of Savannah Series. With everything you could want from a single parent, slow burn, reverse age-gap romance that brings all the feels, this is the perfect book to kick off this new series. C.R. Riley gives us an unputdownable story that shows the emotions and real side of parenting, but with plenty of humour, banter and of course spice! This heartwarming story of love and coming together to help each other heal was outstanding. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
May 29, 2025
Love this story. Bethany is a strong and independent woman with two boys, Finn and Felix. Nolan is her neighbor a hot firefighter with two kids, Mollie and Kellie. Neither was looking for someone to be their HEA but this story takes us there. So much to tell you but you just need to read. The kids are such a big part of the story as are their families and friends. Enjoy
June 11, 2025
Great story!
I love these stories where both MCs are single parents. It adds so much to the chemistry when they can relate on that extra level. Nolan and Bethany had all the chemistry I wanted and then some. Bethany didn't make it easy for Nolan, but it was all worth it in the end.
Firefighter, College Professor, and loads of steam. I loved it!
I love these stories where both MCs are single parents. It adds so much to the chemistry when they can relate on that extra level. Nolan and Bethany had all the chemistry I wanted and then some. Bethany didn't make it easy for Nolan, but it was all worth it in the end.
Firefighter, College Professor, and loads of steam. I loved it!
May 26, 2025
Bleeding Hearts is book 1 in C.R. Riley's new Hearts of Savannah Series.
This is an exciting, emotional, neighbors to lovers, reverse age gap romance, that is full of witty banter and spice.
I could not put this book down! I loved Bethany & Nolan, as well as their children and families.
This is an exciting, emotional, neighbors to lovers, reverse age gap romance, that is full of witty banter and spice.
I could not put this book down! I loved Bethany & Nolan, as well as their children and families.
May 27, 2025
Grumpy neighbor fix downloading! Age gap, she’s older. Single parents x2. 4 kids. He falls first. She’s stubborn. If any of this sounds like your trope, read this book. CR Riley is a very talented author.
June 2, 2025
Great
This is a fantastic story that I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters separate lives and issues are portrayed really well and I loved the kids, they really brought authenticity to the story.
This is a fantastic story that I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters separate lives and issues are portrayed really well and I loved the kids, they really brought authenticity to the story.
June 4, 2025
They are neighbors and single parents who have flirted with each other but nothing more. When she is involved in a serious car accident he is a first responder on the scene and makes him reevaluate their relationship. Can he convince her to open her heart and give them a chance?
June 2, 2025
Very cute and spicy. Easy to read but full of emotions and feelings. Lots of surprising situations but also lots of overcoming them. Adorable kids and found family. Loved it.
May 23, 2025
This is my first book by C.R. Riley, and I absolutely loved it!!! The banter between Bethany and Nolan is what makes the characters come off the page. I loved the storyline, and I can't wait to read another one of her books.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
June 10, 2025
Actual rating 3.5/5
My first read by this author and I feel like I had whiplash by the end. I really loved the main characters of Bethany and Nolan, the story of neighbours coming together as a result of a horrible accident and re-discovering love together was fantastic. I also thought the honesty and sensitivity of how the author wrote the two families melding together was really beautiful. And the spicy scenes were wonderfully hot.
I got lost however in the many side characters and their own stories, almost felt like I was missing pages or maybe should have read other books before diving into this one. The timeline jumped forward weeks and months at a time as well, and would introduce another character or something that might have benefitted from a bit more context/backstory. I didn't feel that anyone other than Alicia really added to this story, the other characters seemed forced into this book, possibly to set up future books in this new series. I thought it took away from Bethany and Nolan's story.
Overall, I would recommend the book, just be aware that there may be confusion as you go through it.
My gratitude to the author for providing me with a ARC of this book.
My first read by this author and I feel like I had whiplash by the end. I really loved the main characters of Bethany and Nolan, the story of neighbours coming together as a result of a horrible accident and re-discovering love together was fantastic. I also thought the honesty and sensitivity of how the author wrote the two families melding together was really beautiful. And the spicy scenes were wonderfully hot.
I got lost however in the many side characters and their own stories, almost felt like I was missing pages or maybe should have read other books before diving into this one. The timeline jumped forward weeks and months at a time as well, and would introduce another character or something that might have benefitted from a bit more context/backstory. I didn't feel that anyone other than Alicia really added to this story, the other characters seemed forced into this book, possibly to set up future books in this new series. I thought it took away from Bethany and Nolan's story.
Overall, I would recommend the book, just be aware that there may be confusion as you go through it.
My gratitude to the author for providing me with a ARC of this book.
July 2, 2025
Star Rating:
⭐⭐⭐: Great plot, the characters were interesting and their story was believable
Introduction:
This is my book review of Bleeding Hearts by C.R. Riley. This is my first time reading a book by Riley and I appreciate the opportunity to read this sweet romance.
Summary:
We find Bethany (psychology professor) and Nolan (firefighter) living across the street from each other. Bethany has teenage twin boys, while Nolan has a teenage daughter and 4-year-old daughter. Nolan is grumpy about Bethany’s Christmas lights still being up well after the holidays and he gives her grief about it. It’s their customary song and dance when they see each other instead of jumping each other’s bones. “Next time she opens that damn mouth of hers, I’m walking right over there, kissing her in a way that will blow her f### mind.”
Bethany gets in her new Audi that she bought for herself as a gift for her hard work and promotion. On her way to work she gets into a really bad car accident through the fault of Theodore Stewart (young, entitled, rich guy). Nolan is called to the scene with his crew and he ends up recognizing Bethany and her car. He makes the call to run point and be the one to keep her calm and help her out. This is the turning point where Nolan and Bethany put their issues aside (i.e., he is grieving over the sudden death of his wife, Bethany suffered from trauma that stopped her from getting into committed relationships) and decide to at least act on their carnal urges.
Nolan helps Bethany and I don’t only mean getting her mail and helping her with her kids. No, he visited her with her favorite kind of coffee, he took down her Christas lights, he talked with her when all she could do was sit on the couch uncomfortably, and he drove her to her doctor’s appointments and to her job when she was able to go back to work.
There are background characters that aren’t the children because they play a bigger role. Cora, Nolan’s sister. Alicia, Bethan’s sister (they have brothers: Chad, and Michael) and her husband Dillon. Jodi, Bethany’s best friend and her husband Wade.
Character Analysis:
Bethany is an observer, quick to form an opinion of someone, but not self-observant. She’s a few years older than Nolan and hadn’t been in a relationship since her ex-baby daddy. She mentioned some trauma from her own parent’s marriage and their toxicity that made her not want to be in committed romantic relationships. Bethany uses this as an excuse to keep Nolan at arm’s length even though they are perfect for each other. “I told you I wasn’t a relationship kind of person. But you wouldn’t listen.”
Nolan is a grumpy and mood man who lightens the more he spends time with Bethany. His grief from losing his wife is palpable and present throughout the book. “We didn’t have the perfect relationship, but she was the only person who got me then ended up being one more who left me before I was ready to say goodbye.” Nolan’s gruff sense of humor makes great banter with Bethany.
Conflict:
There are two conflicts:
Bethany’s issues with romantic relationships: This was a conflict because it came between her and Nolan’s budding relationship. This wasn’t just physical and that was evident from the beginning of their relationship when her family entwined with his so easily; this was also what scared her away. “I don’t want her seeing that I’m on the verge of breaking into a million pieces because she just ripped my heart out of my chest.”
The car crash. Theodore comes back a few times to intimidate Bethany.
Spice Level:
🌶️🌶️💋: Open door sex scenes and great intimacy between characters but the sex scenes were very short.
Conclusion:
Bleeding Hearts by C.R. Riley is a story about a man finding love after the unexpected death of his wife. The obstacles thrown at him and Bethany are nothing but real life showing them how right they are for each other.
Warning to the Readers:
Grief, overdose, description of a car accident to the main character and others not mentioned by the main characters, and conversations about tragedy.
Recommendation:
I do recommend picking up your next read in Bleeding Hearts by C.R. Riley.
⭐⭐⭐: Great plot, the characters were interesting and their story was believable
Introduction:
This is my book review of Bleeding Hearts by C.R. Riley. This is my first time reading a book by Riley and I appreciate the opportunity to read this sweet romance.
Summary:
We find Bethany (psychology professor) and Nolan (firefighter) living across the street from each other. Bethany has teenage twin boys, while Nolan has a teenage daughter and 4-year-old daughter. Nolan is grumpy about Bethany’s Christmas lights still being up well after the holidays and he gives her grief about it. It’s their customary song and dance when they see each other instead of jumping each other’s bones. “Next time she opens that damn mouth of hers, I’m walking right over there, kissing her in a way that will blow her f### mind.”
Bethany gets in her new Audi that she bought for herself as a gift for her hard work and promotion. On her way to work she gets into a really bad car accident through the fault of Theodore Stewart (young, entitled, rich guy). Nolan is called to the scene with his crew and he ends up recognizing Bethany and her car. He makes the call to run point and be the one to keep her calm and help her out. This is the turning point where Nolan and Bethany put their issues aside (i.e., he is grieving over the sudden death of his wife, Bethany suffered from trauma that stopped her from getting into committed relationships) and decide to at least act on their carnal urges.
Nolan helps Bethany and I don’t only mean getting her mail and helping her with her kids. No, he visited her with her favorite kind of coffee, he took down her Christas lights, he talked with her when all she could do was sit on the couch uncomfortably, and he drove her to her doctor’s appointments and to her job when she was able to go back to work.
There are background characters that aren’t the children because they play a bigger role. Cora, Nolan’s sister. Alicia, Bethan’s sister (they have brothers: Chad, and Michael) and her husband Dillon. Jodi, Bethany’s best friend and her husband Wade.
Character Analysis:
Bethany is an observer, quick to form an opinion of someone, but not self-observant. She’s a few years older than Nolan and hadn’t been in a relationship since her ex-baby daddy. She mentioned some trauma from her own parent’s marriage and their toxicity that made her not want to be in committed romantic relationships. Bethany uses this as an excuse to keep Nolan at arm’s length even though they are perfect for each other. “I told you I wasn’t a relationship kind of person. But you wouldn’t listen.”
Nolan is a grumpy and mood man who lightens the more he spends time with Bethany. His grief from losing his wife is palpable and present throughout the book. “We didn’t have the perfect relationship, but she was the only person who got me then ended up being one more who left me before I was ready to say goodbye.” Nolan’s gruff sense of humor makes great banter with Bethany.
Conflict:
There are two conflicts:
Bethany’s issues with romantic relationships: This was a conflict because it came between her and Nolan’s budding relationship. This wasn’t just physical and that was evident from the beginning of their relationship when her family entwined with his so easily; this was also what scared her away. “I don’t want her seeing that I’m on the verge of breaking into a million pieces because she just ripped my heart out of my chest.”
The car crash. Theodore comes back a few times to intimidate Bethany.
Spice Level:
🌶️🌶️💋: Open door sex scenes and great intimacy between characters but the sex scenes were very short.
Conclusion:
Bleeding Hearts by C.R. Riley is a story about a man finding love after the unexpected death of his wife. The obstacles thrown at him and Bethany are nothing but real life showing them how right they are for each other.
Warning to the Readers:
Grief, overdose, description of a car accident to the main character and others not mentioned by the main characters, and conversations about tragedy.
Recommendation:
I do recommend picking up your next read in Bleeding Hearts by C.R. Riley.
May 29, 2025
This reverse age-gap, slow-burn romance includes plenty of intense chemistry, heat and spice. It is emotional, heartwarming and wonderfully perceptive while also being thoroughly entertaining. Nolan and Bethany are both single parents who are fighting their attraction to each other. When they aren’t bickering, the two neighbours are trading flirty banter and heated glances, though neither is willing to act on their attraction. Bethany has learned the hard way that love and relationships are not for her. Raising her twin fifteen year old sons and her job as a psychology professor at the local university keep her very busy, but she does find time for the occasional one night stand or short term fling.
Nolan is a widower who is not ready to move on when it comes to love and relationships, though his beautiful neighbour certainly peaks his interest. His young daughters and his job as a firefighter keep him plenty busy, but he does enjoy his interactions with Bethany, especially the bickering that riles her up. A car accident that leaves Bethany severely injured changes everything between them. Nolan steps up to help, the protective side of him in full force and the need to claim her urging him on. His persistent and determined efforts don’t go unnoticed by Bethany, but she is not ready to give into the feelings her sparks in her. She doesn’t trust him not to be another man to hurt her, but Nolan is not going to be dissuaded. The chemistry between them burns hotter than ever, the flirting is more intense and the resistance is waning, but can he get her to lower the guards around her heart?
Nolan and Bethany’s kids often steal the scene with their antics and words. They certainly keep their parents on their toes and add to the enjoyment of this book, as do their family and friends who offer lots of support, advice and urge Nolan and Bethany toward each other. The addition of a bit of suspense makes this book even more compelling. I wholeheartedly recommend this fantastic book.
Nolan is a widower who is not ready to move on when it comes to love and relationships, though his beautiful neighbour certainly peaks his interest. His young daughters and his job as a firefighter keep him plenty busy, but he does enjoy his interactions with Bethany, especially the bickering that riles her up. A car accident that leaves Bethany severely injured changes everything between them. Nolan steps up to help, the protective side of him in full force and the need to claim her urging him on. His persistent and determined efforts don’t go unnoticed by Bethany, but she is not ready to give into the feelings her sparks in her. She doesn’t trust him not to be another man to hurt her, but Nolan is not going to be dissuaded. The chemistry between them burns hotter than ever, the flirting is more intense and the resistance is waning, but can he get her to lower the guards around her heart?
Nolan and Bethany’s kids often steal the scene with their antics and words. They certainly keep their parents on their toes and add to the enjoyment of this book, as do their family and friends who offer lots of support, advice and urge Nolan and Bethany toward each other. The addition of a bit of suspense makes this book even more compelling. I wholeheartedly recommend this fantastic book.
May 30, 2025
There are starts to a romance series… and then there are starts—and Bleeding Hearts, the first in C.R. Riley’s new Hearts of Savannah series, is the kind of emotional, grown-up romance that sets the bar high.
From the very first chapter, Ms Riley delivers a compelling, layered story with everything I love: single parents, a reverse age-gap dynamic, and complex characters who feel like real people—mess, kids, chaos and all.
Bethany is a fierce, independent mother of fifteen-year-old twin boys, Finn and Felix. Smart, loyal, and just mischievous enough to keep you on your toes, these boys bring a punch of heart and humor to every page. Bethany’s been through it, and her protective, no-nonsense approach to life is shaped by a lifetime of people letting her down. She’s built walls—tall, reinforced ones—and she’s fine with them. Until Nolan.
Nolan. Swoon. He’s a grumpy firefighter widower and a devoted dad to two daughters—adorable four-year-old Mollie and quietly wise eleven-year-old Kellie. The man is all broody charm and unexpected softness, and his love for his girls will melt even the iciest of hearts.
Bethany and Nolan are neighbors, and their relationship starts with banter and bickering (hello, long-standing enemies-to-lovers tension), but one car accident shifts everything—and the sparks between them ignite into a full-blown fire. Their chemistry is sizzling, but what really got me was the emotional depth. Nolan sees through Bethany’s armor, and slowly, his steady presence and their blended family chaos begin to chip away at her walls.
This book nails the realities of single parenthood, family dynamics, and learning to trust again. The kids aren’t just background noise—they’re a vibrant, integral part of the story. From Bethany’s over-the-top Christmas lights to Nolan’s gruff protectiveness, the everyday moments are what make this story sing.
Bleeding Hearts is heartfelt, passionate, funny, messy, and deeply moving. It's about second chances, found family, and learning that love might be scary—but it’s also worth it.
The question is… will Bethany let herself believe it?
If you're a fan of mature romances with all the feels, witty banter, and irresistible slow-burn heat, this one is a must-read. I can't wait to see where the Hearts of Savannah series goes next.
From the very first chapter, Ms Riley delivers a compelling, layered story with everything I love: single parents, a reverse age-gap dynamic, and complex characters who feel like real people—mess, kids, chaos and all.
Bethany is a fierce, independent mother of fifteen-year-old twin boys, Finn and Felix. Smart, loyal, and just mischievous enough to keep you on your toes, these boys bring a punch of heart and humor to every page. Bethany’s been through it, and her protective, no-nonsense approach to life is shaped by a lifetime of people letting her down. She’s built walls—tall, reinforced ones—and she’s fine with them. Until Nolan.
Nolan. Swoon. He’s a grumpy firefighter widower and a devoted dad to two daughters—adorable four-year-old Mollie and quietly wise eleven-year-old Kellie. The man is all broody charm and unexpected softness, and his love for his girls will melt even the iciest of hearts.
Bethany and Nolan are neighbors, and their relationship starts with banter and bickering (hello, long-standing enemies-to-lovers tension), but one car accident shifts everything—and the sparks between them ignite into a full-blown fire. Their chemistry is sizzling, but what really got me was the emotional depth. Nolan sees through Bethany’s armor, and slowly, his steady presence and their blended family chaos begin to chip away at her walls.
This book nails the realities of single parenthood, family dynamics, and learning to trust again. The kids aren’t just background noise—they’re a vibrant, integral part of the story. From Bethany’s over-the-top Christmas lights to Nolan’s gruff protectiveness, the everyday moments are what make this story sing.
Bleeding Hearts is heartfelt, passionate, funny, messy, and deeply moving. It's about second chances, found family, and learning that love might be scary—but it’s also worth it.
The question is… will Bethany let herself believe it?
If you're a fan of mature romances with all the feels, witty banter, and irresistible slow-burn heat, this one is a must-read. I can't wait to see where the Hearts of Savannah series goes next.
June 1, 2025
Ms. Riley has hit the floor running with the first book in her new series, Hearts of Savannah. Bleeding Hearts is an enemies to lovers, second chance at love romance that will pull on your heartstrings. It is filled with fantastic banter, witty one-liners, and family and friends that make this story one that is impossible to put down. Right from the start, I knew this book was going to be one of not just love but of healing and the journey of finding your second love.
Bethany, a single mom of twin teen boys, Finn and Felix, is living her life but the one thing missing is love, which she insists she doesn't want. Her neighbour, Nolan, a firefighter and the single father of two adorable girls, Kellie and Mollie, knows how to push her buttons. One car accident and their lives change forever. He is determined to prove to her that they have something special, but they are also resisting the attraction that is hiding under the surface. Walls fall, hearts get involved and a love that started as a spark turns into a five-alarm blaze that life tests over time.
I love how Nolan was not going to let Bethany get away. He knew deep down inside that she wanted to love and he stopped at nothing to get her to see it for herself. Bethany was the one woman who got Nolan to open up his heart again after years of keeping it closed off.
I can't wait to see what Ms. Riley has in store for us with the next installment in this series
Bethany, a single mom of twin teen boys, Finn and Felix, is living her life but the one thing missing is love, which she insists she doesn't want. Her neighbour, Nolan, a firefighter and the single father of two adorable girls, Kellie and Mollie, knows how to push her buttons. One car accident and their lives change forever. He is determined to prove to her that they have something special, but they are also resisting the attraction that is hiding under the surface. Walls fall, hearts get involved and a love that started as a spark turns into a five-alarm blaze that life tests over time.
I love how Nolan was not going to let Bethany get away. He knew deep down inside that she wanted to love and he stopped at nothing to get her to see it for herself. Bethany was the one woman who got Nolan to open up his heart again after years of keeping it closed off.
I can't wait to see what Ms. Riley has in store for us with the next installment in this series
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