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Maple Grove #1
Capturing You: Maple Grove Romance, Book 1
Lydia Ryder is trouble.
It’s what I told myself when I first saw her arrive in our small, rural town wearing stilettos. When she spilled an entire cup of coffee all over herself. And when I saved her from tripping off the sidewalk into oncoming traffic. I lead a simple life as a single dad. I don’t have time for trouble. I’m too busy packing lunches, driving to soccer practices, and trying to fold a damn fitted sheet.
But she sees beyond the overworked, exhausted parent I am. She sees the real me. The me that I haven’t allowed myself to be since my wife died two years ago.
And she’s only in town for one week.
In hindsight, I shouldn’t have kissed her.
But now that I have, I think I’ve gotten a taste for trouble...and it’s addicting.
Fans of Melanie Harlow, Carly Phillips, and Kristen Proby will love this steamy and sweet small-town romance!
It’s what I told myself when I first saw her arrive in our small, rural town wearing stilettos. When she spilled an entire cup of coffee all over herself. And when I saved her from tripping off the sidewalk into oncoming traffic. I lead a simple life as a single dad. I don’t have time for trouble. I’m too busy packing lunches, driving to soccer practices, and trying to fold a damn fitted sheet.
But she sees beyond the overworked, exhausted parent I am. She sees the real me. The me that I haven’t allowed myself to be since my wife died two years ago.
And she’s only in town for one week.
In hindsight, I shouldn’t have kissed her.
But now that I have, I think I’ve gotten a taste for trouble...and it’s addicting.
Fans of Melanie Harlow, Carly Phillips, and Kristen Proby will love this steamy and sweet small-town romance!
Audible Audio
First published December 16, 2014
1261 people are currently reading
672 people want to read
About the author
Katana Collins
94 books671 followersKatana Collins is a USA Today bestselling author of over twenty novels, novellas, and comic books in a variety of genres. She is most known for her sensual contemporary romances and her wildly popular comic book— Batman White Knight Presents: Harley Quinn with DC Comics.
When she was younger and stole her mother’s Harlequins to read beneath the covers with a flashlight, she wanted to read about the tough as nails heroine. The perfectly imperfect girl with quirks and attitude and sass. And the anti-heroes who were anything but “Prince Charming.” Forget the knight on a white horse … she wanted the bad boy on a motorcycle.
An avid animal lover, she lives in Portland, Maine with her kind of mean cat, derpy lab-pitt mix, mellow chihuahua, and very not mellow cairn terrier puppy. Oh, yeah… there’s a husband somewhere in that mix, too.
She can usually be found in a coffee shop with her nose buried in a laptop wearing fabulous (albeit sometimes impractical) shoes.
She loves connecting with book lovers like herself, and fellow sassy storytellers, so feel free to drop her an email, visit her on her website. She also loves connecting on Instagram, Facebook or in her reader group, Kat’s Kittens!
When she was younger and stole her mother’s Harlequins to read beneath the covers with a flashlight, she wanted to read about the tough as nails heroine. The perfectly imperfect girl with quirks and attitude and sass. And the anti-heroes who were anything but “Prince Charming.” Forget the knight on a white horse … she wanted the bad boy on a motorcycle.
An avid animal lover, she lives in Portland, Maine with her kind of mean cat, derpy lab-pitt mix, mellow chihuahua, and very not mellow cairn terrier puppy. Oh, yeah… there’s a husband somewhere in that mix, too.
She can usually be found in a coffee shop with her nose buried in a laptop wearing fabulous (albeit sometimes impractical) shoes.
She loves connecting with book lovers like herself, and fellow sassy storytellers, so feel free to drop her an email, visit her on her website. She also loves connecting on Instagram, Facebook or in her reader group, Kat’s Kittens!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
September 29, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
Single dad, small town romance swoony vibes! This was easy to read and overall a feel good romance.
It was a little too insta-lust for my preference, and honestly I didn’t love the MMC. He felt overly committed to misunderstanding and that’s just not my favorite. However I totally think this would work for a lot of people and still a cute read.
Thank you to Hambright PR for the e-book and ALC, I enjoyed immersive reading this.
Single dad, small town romance swoony vibes! This was easy to read and overall a feel good romance.
It was a little too insta-lust for my preference, and honestly I didn’t love the MMC. He felt overly committed to misunderstanding and that’s just not my favorite. However I totally think this would work for a lot of people and still a cute read.
Thank you to Hambright PR for the e-book and ALC, I enjoyed immersive reading this.
December 16, 2014
Unsuspectingly sweet.
FYI, reading Meeting You is a must before starting Capturing You; especially when how these two met has such a big impact on the story. (At least I feel it does.)
As a huge fan of Katana Collins’ Soul Stripper series, I am a bit taken aback by how sweet this read is. I am used to her action packed, sex infused epicness. So when I got a modern day romance, I had to shift gears from all my preconceived notions of her prior writings.
So what do I think? It is sweet and lovely. Lydia and Cameron have an attraction within moments of meeting, but that is all it is: a fleeting moment. Months later, these two meet again with the conduit of Cameron’s daughter and an auction that commemorates his late wife. I am always happy when an author includes a child into the story as an active member and not a side note. This is done unbelievably well.
Lydia and Cameron dance around each other with lust and distain. There are other factors that are at play, trying to manipulate family members as well as the media. It was a bit predictable at times, but with the writing style and such likable characters, that can be overlooked.
All in all I really liked this introduction into the Tripp family. This is going to be a great series and I feel it will just keep getting better and better as we get to know the Tripp siblings.
FYI, reading Meeting You is a must before starting Capturing You; especially when how these two met has such a big impact on the story. (At least I feel it does.)
As a huge fan of Katana Collins’ Soul Stripper series, I am a bit taken aback by how sweet this read is. I am used to her action packed, sex infused epicness. So when I got a modern day romance, I had to shift gears from all my preconceived notions of her prior writings.
So what do I think? It is sweet and lovely. Lydia and Cameron have an attraction within moments of meeting, but that is all it is: a fleeting moment. Months later, these two meet again with the conduit of Cameron’s daughter and an auction that commemorates his late wife. I am always happy when an author includes a child into the story as an active member and not a side note. This is done unbelievably well.
Lydia and Cameron dance around each other with lust and distain. There are other factors that are at play, trying to manipulate family members as well as the media. It was a bit predictable at times, but with the writing style and such likable characters, that can be overlooked.
All in all I really liked this introduction into the Tripp family. This is going to be a great series and I feel it will just keep getting better and better as we get to know the Tripp siblings.
December 26, 2014
A digital copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
This romance tale revolves around the lives of two people who have given up on love and emotions. Ever since his wife passed away, Cameron, a widower, has no place in his life for any woman except his 10 year old daughter. Little does he know that his resolutions, decisions and heart will all take a plunge when he meets the most opinionated, fiery and self-standing woman he has ever known, in the form of Lydia. Having been told she cannot have a child of her own, Lydia has devoted her life to her photography and going around the world. She is irresistibly drawn towards Cameron. But they both have their doubts about each other, despite the initial attraction. Stumbling upon Lydia's past makes Cameron's trust on her take a nose dive. Lydia is left shattered. Do the two of them manage to explain all things about themselves to each other, and admit to each other about their feelings, is what the book takes us through.
The author has intended this to be a good mix of a sweet and quiet countryside romance elements combined with physical attractions. I loved the characterisation of Cameron's daughter - quirky, cheerful and a lot of fun! The book was a good read and I would recommend this to lovers of romance.
My rating for this book: 3 stars
This romance tale revolves around the lives of two people who have given up on love and emotions. Ever since his wife passed away, Cameron, a widower, has no place in his life for any woman except his 10 year old daughter. Little does he know that his resolutions, decisions and heart will all take a plunge when he meets the most opinionated, fiery and self-standing woman he has ever known, in the form of Lydia. Having been told she cannot have a child of her own, Lydia has devoted her life to her photography and going around the world. She is irresistibly drawn towards Cameron. But they both have their doubts about each other, despite the initial attraction. Stumbling upon Lydia's past makes Cameron's trust on her take a nose dive. Lydia is left shattered. Do the two of them manage to explain all things about themselves to each other, and admit to each other about their feelings, is what the book takes us through.
The author has intended this to be a good mix of a sweet and quiet countryside romance elements combined with physical attractions. I loved the characterisation of Cameron's daughter - quirky, cheerful and a lot of fun! The book was a good read and I would recommend this to lovers of romance.
My rating for this book: 3 stars
November 1, 2018
I really enjoyed this well-written, small-town romance! Only a couple of chapters in and I was already in love with Cam.
Reading this was like watching a movie play out in front of me. With situations so real in the little town of Maple Grove, this story grabbed me by the heart and didn’t let go.
The author gives us Cam & Lydia, who are so easy to fall in love with. I felt an instant connection. The chemistry between them sparkled. Watching their relationship go from attraction to annoyance back to attraction, then to can’t-stop-thinking-about-each-other was entertaining and enjoyable.
I absolutely fell in love with Cam’s daughter, Maddie, as well as the rest of his family. When Lydia thought she wasn’t good with kids, watching her interact and bond with Maddie was endearing and made me want to squeeze them both.
This story was so good, so real, with characters that stole my heart. Looking forward to reading Steve’s book, Healing You!
Reading this was like watching a movie play out in front of me. With situations so real in the little town of Maple Grove, this story grabbed me by the heart and didn’t let go.
The author gives us Cam & Lydia, who are so easy to fall in love with. I felt an instant connection. The chemistry between them sparkled. Watching their relationship go from attraction to annoyance back to attraction, then to can’t-stop-thinking-about-each-other was entertaining and enjoyable.
I absolutely fell in love with Cam’s daughter, Maddie, as well as the rest of his family. When Lydia thought she wasn’t good with kids, watching her interact and bond with Maddie was endearing and made me want to squeeze them both.
This story was so good, so real, with characters that stole my heart. Looking forward to reading Steve’s book, Healing You!
Want to read
February 13, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/7/2019)! 🎁
September 24, 2025
I had the honor to get an ALC on this sweet book. Such a cute small time romance. I fell in love with Lydia as she battles infertility issues. Cam is a single dad, who is grieving and very protective raising his little girl, Maddie. Maddie is the cutest.
There was some miscommunication in this book which is not my favorite trope, but I will say it was done well in this book. It was a bit predictable but I was here for it.
There was some miscommunication in this book which is not my favorite trope, but I will say it was done well in this book. It was a bit predictable but I was here for it.
May 2, 2019
The couple only got together at 95% of the book. The last chapter before the epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2025
#gifted #ARC
I fell in love with the Capturing You cover first and my love for the characters quickly followed as I dove into this book.
THOUGHTS 💭
📷 Both Cam and Lydia are going through a dry spell and are grieving (Cam for his late wife and Lydia for her infertility) - the healing begins for both when they enter each other’s lives.
📷 For a character that I felt sympathy for in the first chapter, Lydia showed herself to be aloof and selfish in the early chapters. I’m so happy to say that her character arc ended up being wonderful and I ended up loving her as I made my way through this book.
📷 Will they or won’t they? There’s trauma and misunderstanding and hurt between these two, but they eventually find their way to each other.
📷 Instead of grumpy/sunshine, we have grumpy/black cat. And that was a fun combo!
📷 Cam’s daughter Maddy is such a sweet character and I loved watching her interact with Lydia; they share a passion for photography and “girly” things and I enjoyed watching their interactions become more natural the longer Lydia is around her.
📷 Lydia can’t help but be charmed and changed by the small town and the people in it. Will it be enough to stop a smear piece her editor wants her to write?
📷 With single parent romances, I love when the love interest not only falls for the parent, but also their child. 🥹
Thanks so much to Katana Collins and Hambright PR for the ARC of this book!
I fell in love with the Capturing You cover first and my love for the characters quickly followed as I dove into this book.
THOUGHTS 💭
📷 Both Cam and Lydia are going through a dry spell and are grieving (Cam for his late wife and Lydia for her infertility) - the healing begins for both when they enter each other’s lives.
📷 For a character that I felt sympathy for in the first chapter, Lydia showed herself to be aloof and selfish in the early chapters. I’m so happy to say that her character arc ended up being wonderful and I ended up loving her as I made my way through this book.
📷 Will they or won’t they? There’s trauma and misunderstanding and hurt between these two, but they eventually find their way to each other.
📷 Instead of grumpy/sunshine, we have grumpy/black cat. And that was a fun combo!
📷 Cam’s daughter Maddy is such a sweet character and I loved watching her interact with Lydia; they share a passion for photography and “girly” things and I enjoyed watching their interactions become more natural the longer Lydia is around her.
📷 Lydia can’t help but be charmed and changed by the small town and the people in it. Will it be enough to stop a smear piece her editor wants her to write?
📷 With single parent romances, I love when the love interest not only falls for the parent, but also their child. 🥹
Thanks so much to Katana Collins and Hambright PR for the ARC of this book!
September 23, 2025
Capturing You is such a sweet unexpected read. As soon as I started this audiobook I was hooked I absolutely loved the characters in this one especially Cam’s daughter Maddie she honestly just melted my heart!
I loved the relationship between Lydia (FMC) who thinks she’s just bad with kids no mother instincts here nope…..
but when Cameron (MMC) windowed dad & Maddie who is 10 years old barge into Lydia’s life things begin to really change and I absolutely loved every single minute of it!
The tension & the attraction between Cam & Lydia was absolutely perfection! These two characters were so easy to fall in love with. Both characters honestly had great character development not just with each other but for their own selves.
Not only did Author Katana Collins write some great main characters but I also really enjoyed Cam’s Family and I can’t wait to continue this series!
Capturing You is honestly such a great small town heartwarming steamy romance!
I loved the relationship between Lydia (FMC) who thinks she’s just bad with kids no mother instincts here nope…..
but when Cameron (MMC) windowed dad & Maddie who is 10 years old barge into Lydia’s life things begin to really change and I absolutely loved every single minute of it!
The tension & the attraction between Cam & Lydia was absolutely perfection! These two characters were so easy to fall in love with. Both characters honestly had great character development not just with each other but for their own selves.
Not only did Author Katana Collins write some great main characters but I also really enjoyed Cam’s Family and I can’t wait to continue this series!
Capturing You is honestly such a great small town heartwarming steamy romance!
October 5, 2025
If you know me, you know my love of single dad romances. I can hardly pass one up when I see them, and that’s exactly what drew me to listening to the audio of this book!
Cam is a single dad to a 10 year old daughter. His world revolves around her, hasn’t been interested in changing that and putting himself out there.
I thought the banter between the two characters was funny. They went from being extremely attracted to each other, to being standoffish and awkward.
I thought the narrators did a great job and bringing this story to life. I’m not a huge fan of the third person POV, but I felt Stefanie Kay and Braf Leif helped keep my interest in the plot. They had good pacing and really put some emotion into the moments it was warranted. I liked these two authors for this book! They fit well.
Cam is a single dad to a 10 year old daughter. His world revolves around her, hasn’t been interested in changing that and putting himself out there.
I thought the banter between the two characters was funny. They went from being extremely attracted to each other, to being standoffish and awkward.
I thought the narrators did a great job and bringing this story to life. I’m not a huge fan of the third person POV, but I felt Stefanie Kay and Braf Leif helped keep my interest in the plot. They had good pacing and really put some emotion into the moments it was warranted. I liked these two authors for this book! They fit well.
October 13, 2025
Thank you to Hambright and Katana Collins for allowing me to be an ARC reader. I really enjoyed book 1, ill definitely will be continuing with Maple Grove, I want to know more about this little NH town.
Lydia Ryder, just found out some horrible news she can’t have children of her own and after telling her boyfriends he was thrilled, but that wasn’t the news she wanted to hear and ended it with him. Lydia throws herself into her career as a magazine photographer and storyteller, her passport, but when her job lands her in the small town of Maple Grove, New Hampshire, Lydia finds her heart on the line.
Cameron Tipp, his wife passed away two years ago leaving him a single father and a life to juggle without her. He has thrown himself into his family, his job and raises her little girl to become a wonderful woman. When he finds himself and his daughter at the center of attention of the art auction, he never thought he would fall for the lead journalist. But just as Cam sees Lydia and his daughter grow a cute and quick relationship together, he lost it and he starts to feel something for a woman again after a few years.
Read this cute, adorable, warm vibe of a small-town romance. I will definitely be continuing with this series. Katana Collins writing style is different but great. I love discovering new authors and their series.
Lydia Ryder, just found out some horrible news she can’t have children of her own and after telling her boyfriends he was thrilled, but that wasn’t the news she wanted to hear and ended it with him. Lydia throws herself into her career as a magazine photographer and storyteller, her passport, but when her job lands her in the small town of Maple Grove, New Hampshire, Lydia finds her heart on the line.
Cameron Tipp, his wife passed away two years ago leaving him a single father and a life to juggle without her. He has thrown himself into his family, his job and raises her little girl to become a wonderful woman. When he finds himself and his daughter at the center of attention of the art auction, he never thought he would fall for the lead journalist. But just as Cam sees Lydia and his daughter grow a cute and quick relationship together, he lost it and he starts to feel something for a woman again after a few years.
Read this cute, adorable, warm vibe of a small-town romance. I will definitely be continuing with this series. Katana Collins writing style is different but great. I love discovering new authors and their series.
October 18, 2025
This book completely stole my heart. It’s a story about loss, healing, family, and finding love when you least expect it. Lydia heads to Maple Grove to cover a charity event, but instead she stumbles into something life-changing. Enter Cam, handsome, stubborn, and carrying just as much grief as she is. From their very first meeting (and a few fiery arguments), you could feel the tension, and the slow burn between them was everything.
What really hit me is how real their struggles felt. Lydia is grieving the loss of her fertility, and Cam is still mourning his wife. Neither one wanted love, yet somehow they found it in each other. Their story felt raw, emotional, and beautifully messy, the kind of romance that makes you believe in second chances. Add in the cozy small-town backdrop, and it just gave me all the feels.
The audiobook was so well done that the narrators captured the emotions perfectly. I could actually feel the heartbreak, the hesitation, and the moments of joy. And let me just say: Maddie completely stole the show for me. Her bond with Lydia was so touching. It added a great deal of depth and sweetness to the story.
I also didn’t realize this was part of the Maple Grove series; each story is a standalone romance, and now I have to go back and read the rest. And yes, I’m obsessed with that cover; the dog looks just like my Kobe, which makes me love it even more.
This is one of those heartwarming, emotional romances that stay with you long after it ends. If you love small-town vibes, slow burns, and stories that balance grief with hope, Capturing You is absolutely worth adding to your TBR!
Thank you so much to @hambright_pr and @katanacollins for the ALC!
What really hit me is how real their struggles felt. Lydia is grieving the loss of her fertility, and Cam is still mourning his wife. Neither one wanted love, yet somehow they found it in each other. Their story felt raw, emotional, and beautifully messy, the kind of romance that makes you believe in second chances. Add in the cozy small-town backdrop, and it just gave me all the feels.
The audiobook was so well done that the narrators captured the emotions perfectly. I could actually feel the heartbreak, the hesitation, and the moments of joy. And let me just say: Maddie completely stole the show for me. Her bond with Lydia was so touching. It added a great deal of depth and sweetness to the story.
I also didn’t realize this was part of the Maple Grove series; each story is a standalone romance, and now I have to go back and read the rest. And yes, I’m obsessed with that cover; the dog looks just like my Kobe, which makes me love it even more.
This is one of those heartwarming, emotional romances that stay with you long after it ends. If you love small-town vibes, slow burns, and stories that balance grief with hope, Capturing You is absolutely worth adding to your TBR!
Thank you so much to @hambright_pr and @katanacollins for the ALC!
October 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this
Cam and Lydia had an instant connection
The chemistry between them was amazing.
Watching their relationship go from attraction to annoyance, back to attraction then can’t stop thinking about each other was entertaining and enjoyable
Lydia thought she wasn’t gonna be good for Cam’s daughter Maddie but watching those 2 bond was so sweet
Cam and Lydia had an instant connection
The chemistry between them was amazing.
Watching their relationship go from attraction to annoyance, back to attraction then can’t stop thinking about each other was entertaining and enjoyable
Lydia thought she wasn’t gonna be good for Cam’s daughter Maddie but watching those 2 bond was so sweet
November 5, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
It was sweet, small town romance vibes. Super swoony, this was a fast burn.
It was sweet, small town romance vibes. Super swoony, this was a fast burn.
January 7, 2015
What I Thought:
I fell in love with this book the moment I started reading. It was so real.
I think it was the fact that the story really hit home. It showed that when you are at your lowest moment, sometimes wonderful things can happen, well sort-of. In the case of Lydia, she has just learned that she is infertile. She hadn't begun to think about children, a hubby or her happily ever after, as she was just focused on work and making her own. Then she gets landed in a small town, where she meets a 10 year old girl and her dad.
Cameron is a widower, to a heart disease. Unlike Lydia, he thought he had found his happily ever after, and had lost it. He'd convinced himself that he didn't need love and would never find it again.
Then the two meet. I love that they both are in places in their lives that they believe they will never find a love to complete their 'happily ever after.' They both think they best move on with the life they have and not worry about love. However, just as the world seems to work, they find each other. It was fantastic reading about their early spark and meeting, getting read along as they discovered each other and what it might be like to become a family.
However, love it not always what it seems. Lydia has a job to do, and Cameron may not like what he reads.
I won't give away the ending or the lead up to it, but I will say that it is great!
I liked the plot, as mentioned above, as I think life has so many times when you feel like giving in and just making do with what you've got, but life always has a curveball. The characters had loads of depth and personality, as to be expected with a longer read like this. They didn't grow dull, boring or easy to guess as I flipped the pages. It was just the opposite, I felt more drawn to them and couldn't wait to read more.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good pick-me-up, a little love and just a few kisses. It is a great read.
I fell in love with this book the moment I started reading. It was so real.
I think it was the fact that the story really hit home. It showed that when you are at your lowest moment, sometimes wonderful things can happen, well sort-of. In the case of Lydia, she has just learned that she is infertile. She hadn't begun to think about children, a hubby or her happily ever after, as she was just focused on work and making her own. Then she gets landed in a small town, where she meets a 10 year old girl and her dad.
Cameron is a widower, to a heart disease. Unlike Lydia, he thought he had found his happily ever after, and had lost it. He'd convinced himself that he didn't need love and would never find it again.
Then the two meet. I love that they both are in places in their lives that they believe they will never find a love to complete their 'happily ever after.' They both think they best move on with the life they have and not worry about love. However, just as the world seems to work, they find each other. It was fantastic reading about their early spark and meeting, getting read along as they discovered each other and what it might be like to become a family.
However, love it not always what it seems. Lydia has a job to do, and Cameron may not like what he reads.
I won't give away the ending or the lead up to it, but I will say that it is great!
I liked the plot, as mentioned above, as I think life has so many times when you feel like giving in and just making do with what you've got, but life always has a curveball. The characters had loads of depth and personality, as to be expected with a longer read like this. They didn't grow dull, boring or easy to guess as I flipped the pages. It was just the opposite, I felt more drawn to them and couldn't wait to read more.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good pick-me-up, a little love and just a few kisses. It is a great read.
March 18, 2018
Katana Collins is a new to me author and after reading this I am definitely a fan! I really enjoyed this story! Cam and Lydia don’t exactly get off on the right foot but the important thing is how they end up. The journey to how they end up is a sweet, sexy and fun one with some pretty serious misunderstandings thrown in just enough so it’s far from a perfect one. I liked the supporting characters as well especially Maddie, who is a cutie pie and I just loved her! I look forward to more in this series!
January 23, 2019
Great
Lydia saw Cam the first time in the worst day of her life. But then doesn't see him again until she goes to Maple Grove for a charity auction that sets up artist in residency and school children. Cam's daughter started it for The American Heart Association after her mom died young from a bad heart. She is in 5th grade but she is smart. Little did Lydia know that her boss was from Maple Grove and looking to make Cam look bad.
Lydia saw Cam the first time in the worst day of her life. But then doesn't see him again until she goes to Maple Grove for a charity auction that sets up artist in residency and school children. Cam's daughter started it for The American Heart Association after her mom died young from a bad heart. She is in 5th grade but she is smart. Little did Lydia know that her boss was from Maple Grove and looking to make Cam look bad.
September 22, 2025
Lydia Ryder, a dedicated photojournalist, has just received the most devastating news of her life; she will never be able to have children. Reeling from her grief and unsure of her future, she accepts a job from City Star Magazine that takes her to the small town of Maple Grove to cover a charity auction. What she doesn’t expect is the celebrity attention surrounding the event, or that the auction will be run by a child. That child belongs to Cam Tripp, the quiet, grounded brother of world-famous star Noah Tripp. Unlike his brother, Cam has stayed far away from the spotlight, choosing instead to raise his daughter Maddie after losing his wife two years earlier to congenital heart disease. His life is simple, protective, and tightly woven around Maddie, until Lydia blows into town and upends everything. At first, Cam is wary. Lydia challenges him in ways he didn’t anticipate, awakening parts of himself he thought had died with his wife. Lydia, meanwhile, is struggling with her own identity after learning she cannot have children. The growing bond she feels with Cam and Maddie terrifies her. She doesn’t believe she could ever fill the role of mother. But as their connection deepens, secrets and unspoken fears threaten to unravel the fragile trust they’ve built.
Cam is a deeply relatable MMC, a widower still mourning his wife, navigating the challenges of single fatherhood, and carrying the sting of estrangement from his famous brother. His protective instincts for Maddie tug at your heart while also making you root for him to find happiness again. Lydia, on the other hand, is a relatable FMC who embodies quiet resilience in the face of heartbreak. Her struggle with infertility and her fear of never being “enough” for someone else’s family add layers of vulnerability to her character.
In conclusion, I gave this book 4 stars because Capturing You is a sweet, heartfelt story about healing, honesty, and the courage to embrace second chances. Katana Collins weaves small-town charm with genuine emotion, crafting a narrative that feels both cozy and profoundly real. This isn’t just a romance, it’s a reflection on grief, resilience, and the quiet bravery it takes to open yourself up when life hasn’t gone according to plan. Cam and Lydia’s journey reminds us that love isn’t about perfection or living without scars; it’s about finding someone who sees those scars, accepts them, and chooses you anyway.
Cam is a deeply relatable MMC, a widower still mourning his wife, navigating the challenges of single fatherhood, and carrying the sting of estrangement from his famous brother. His protective instincts for Maddie tug at your heart while also making you root for him to find happiness again. Lydia, on the other hand, is a relatable FMC who embodies quiet resilience in the face of heartbreak. Her struggle with infertility and her fear of never being “enough” for someone else’s family add layers of vulnerability to her character.
In conclusion, I gave this book 4 stars because Capturing You is a sweet, heartfelt story about healing, honesty, and the courage to embrace second chances. Katana Collins weaves small-town charm with genuine emotion, crafting a narrative that feels both cozy and profoundly real. This isn’t just a romance, it’s a reflection on grief, resilience, and the quiet bravery it takes to open yourself up when life hasn’t gone according to plan. Cam and Lydia’s journey reminds us that love isn’t about perfection or living without scars; it’s about finding someone who sees those scars, accepts them, and chooses you anyway.
March 29, 2020
(3.5 ⭐️’s)
Lydia is a photojournalist who has learned some devastating news. Not only did her job mess up an article she wrote but she’s also dealing with some personal issues as well. She meets a stranger in a coffee shop that sparks her interest only to have him walk away. 7 months goes by and she’s in a a small town called Maple Grove to write an article about a school auction. But little did she know the auction is being run by a 10yr old girl who’s father ends up being...the guy from the coffee shop.
Cam doesn’t trust journalists/reporters. He and his family have been burned by them in the past so when he finds out the women he hasn’t been able to forget is a journalist, he’s not happy. Little-by-little he starts to trust her and a connection is formed but everything can’t all be hearts and flowers. Their trust is jeopardized and its going to take a lot to keep these two together but don’t worry, they get their HEA in the end.
I will admit that I wasn’t in the right state of mind when I first started reading this story. This is the case of “it’s not you, it’s me”. It took a bit for me to get into it but once I did, I was hooked. I loved the small town vibe of Maple Grove and the closeness of the Tripp family. Even though Lydia had issues with kids the connection she has with Maddie is so genuine and you could tell that a true friendship was forming. The ending was perfect especially the part with Lydia and Mara. And even though it was mostly Lydia’s fault I wish she would have made Cam grovel just a bit more. She gave in too easily and I thought with everything he said to her that more groveling was needed. Overall this was a good read that flowed well (minus the blip I had in the beginning). The characters were well developed and I will admit that I plan on re-reading this story so my rating may change.
Happy Reading Everyone 🤓
Lydia is a photojournalist who has learned some devastating news. Not only did her job mess up an article she wrote but she’s also dealing with some personal issues as well. She meets a stranger in a coffee shop that sparks her interest only to have him walk away. 7 months goes by and she’s in a a small town called Maple Grove to write an article about a school auction. But little did she know the auction is being run by a 10yr old girl who’s father ends up being...the guy from the coffee shop.
Cam doesn’t trust journalists/reporters. He and his family have been burned by them in the past so when he finds out the women he hasn’t been able to forget is a journalist, he’s not happy. Little-by-little he starts to trust her and a connection is formed but everything can’t all be hearts and flowers. Their trust is jeopardized and its going to take a lot to keep these two together but don’t worry, they get their HEA in the end.
I will admit that I wasn’t in the right state of mind when I first started reading this story. This is the case of “it’s not you, it’s me”. It took a bit for me to get into it but once I did, I was hooked. I loved the small town vibe of Maple Grove and the closeness of the Tripp family. Even though Lydia had issues with kids the connection she has with Maddie is so genuine and you could tell that a true friendship was forming. The ending was perfect especially the part with Lydia and Mara. And even though it was mostly Lydia’s fault I wish she would have made Cam grovel just a bit more. She gave in too easily and I thought with everything he said to her that more groveling was needed. Overall this was a good read that flowed well (minus the blip I had in the beginning). The characters were well developed and I will admit that I plan on re-reading this story so my rating may change.
Happy Reading Everyone 🤓
September 25, 2025
*Audiobook
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨✨ (4.5/5)
TW: Fertility issues, toxic workplace
“She’s a kid, it’s her word against ours.”
“If your feet get wet, you’re doing it wrong.” 🍻🤪🤭
“I’m a journalist, I always ask questions.”
Thanks to Hambright PR (@hambright_pr) for including me in this book blitz. This one is 𝘼𝙑𝘼𝙄𝙇𝘼𝘽𝙇𝙀 𝙉𝙊𝙒!
TROPES/THEMES
👨👧 Single Dad (widow) 🏡 Small Town 🚪 Forced Proximity ⚡ Opposites Attract 🔥 Enemies to Lovers
🎨 Cute Headstrong Kid
⌨️ Staying true to yourself
While this is the first book in the series, they can all be read as stand-alone novels. It’s a sweet story (not too sweet for spice though) even with the heavier themes.
There’s some miscommunication/ misconception vibes but I really appreciated the way this trope was executed in this novel.
I loved that Cam and Lydia had a slow build to their relationship. Also I thought it was authentic to address Lydia’s hormonal issues and how that fire came back when she met the right person, hormones be damned.
I was enraged when I heard how the breakup happened with her ex because I know so many men who would respond to fertility issues that way. Ewww.
Lydia’s boss is such a great “love to hate” character.
The author did such a nice job of making Maddie cute & endearing. Sometimes kids in novels are so babyish it gets annoying but that wasn’t the case here.
I just loved the town and community of Maple Grove. Can’t wait to read more of this series.
QOTD:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨✨ (4.5/5)
TW: Fertility issues, toxic workplace
“She’s a kid, it’s her word against ours.”
“If your feet get wet, you’re doing it wrong.” 🍻🤪🤭
“I’m a journalist, I always ask questions.”
Thanks to Hambright PR (@hambright_pr) for including me in this book blitz. This one is 𝘼𝙑𝘼𝙄𝙇𝘼𝘽𝙇𝙀 𝙉𝙊𝙒!
TROPES/THEMES
👨👧 Single Dad (widow) 🏡 Small Town 🚪 Forced Proximity ⚡ Opposites Attract 🔥 Enemies to Lovers
🎨 Cute Headstrong Kid
⌨️ Staying true to yourself
While this is the first book in the series, they can all be read as stand-alone novels. It’s a sweet story (not too sweet for spice though) even with the heavier themes.
There’s some miscommunication/ misconception vibes but I really appreciated the way this trope was executed in this novel.
I loved that Cam and Lydia had a slow build to their relationship. Also I thought it was authentic to address Lydia’s hormonal issues and how that fire came back when she met the right person, hormones be damned.
I was enraged when I heard how the breakup happened with her ex because I know so many men who would respond to fertility issues that way. Ewww.
Lydia’s boss is such a great “love to hate” character.
The author did such a nice job of making Maddie cute & endearing. Sometimes kids in novels are so babyish it gets annoying but that wasn’t the case here.
I just loved the town and community of Maple Grove. Can’t wait to read more of this series.
QOTD:
October 1, 2025
Welcome to the sweet small town of Maple Grove, invision a Hallmark Movie Channel romance and you'll have the essence of Capturing You. It is the first book in the Maple Grove Romance series and my first read of Katana Collins's. I had the pleasure of listening to the audiobook with the narrators being Brad Leaf and Stefanie Kay, they did an amazing job bringing life to the characters of Maple Grove.
Capturing You is an enemies to lovers, forced proximity, opposites attracts, single dad romance with the unfortunate bonus of the miscommunication trope. If you have read my reviews before you know that I am not fan of the whole miscommunication trope between characters. However, I will say that it was tolerable and it did not deter me from finishing Capturing You.
Lydia is a photo journalist who works for a gossip magazine and is sent on an assignment to Maple Grove to find the hidden scandals within the small town. However, as fate would have it her mystery man resides in said town. Cam is a single father to the most adorable little girl that will pull on your heartstings. If you like your MMC's protective and stuck in his own ways, you'll love Cameron.
I found the storyline involving Maddie's mom to be relatable, as I have POTS and struggle with tachycardia. Thank you, for representing heart awareness.
Overall, I enjoyed Capturing You and look forward to continuing on with the series.
Capturing You is an enemies to lovers, forced proximity, opposites attracts, single dad romance with the unfortunate bonus of the miscommunication trope. If you have read my reviews before you know that I am not fan of the whole miscommunication trope between characters. However, I will say that it was tolerable and it did not deter me from finishing Capturing You.
Lydia is a photo journalist who works for a gossip magazine and is sent on an assignment to Maple Grove to find the hidden scandals within the small town. However, as fate would have it her mystery man resides in said town. Cam is a single father to the most adorable little girl that will pull on your heartstings. If you like your MMC's protective and stuck in his own ways, you'll love Cameron.
I found the storyline involving Maddie's mom to be relatable, as I have POTS and struggle with tachycardia. Thank you, for representing heart awareness.
Overall, I enjoyed Capturing You and look forward to continuing on with the series.
October 6, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
I do love a small town romance- one where the whole town knows what’s going on. I mean, I wouldn’t want my own life under the microscope, but I do enjoy the fictional world like this.
Lydia Ryder was having a truly terrible day when she first set eyes on Cameron Tripp. As a photojournalist she recently had a story published that a ghostwriter completely rewrote and which used things that were said to her off the record. She feels awful about that. Plus, she just got the news that she won’t be able to have children. She doesn’t even know if she wants kids, but now she doesn’t have the choice. A handsome stranger in a coffee shop sees her crying and offers words of encouragement then disappears into the streets of NYC.
Several months later, she’s on assignment in the quaint small town of Maple Grove, NH and whom should she see almost immediately? That handsome stranger from the coffee shop. Through a series of events, she ends up staying in his guest house, putting her in close proximity to him and to his 10-year-old daughter. They all bond pretty quickly despite her having a big secret that could change everything.
I did have to suspend some disbelief, but that happens sometimes. I was still engaged and enjoyed their love story.
Recommended for lovers of forced proximity, grief journeys, precocious children, and big families.
I received this eARC via @hambright_pr. All thoughts are mine alone.
contemporary romance | novels | books | reading | Capturing You | Katana Collins | book recs | recommendations | book reviews
I do love a small town romance- one where the whole town knows what’s going on. I mean, I wouldn’t want my own life under the microscope, but I do enjoy the fictional world like this.
Lydia Ryder was having a truly terrible day when she first set eyes on Cameron Tripp. As a photojournalist she recently had a story published that a ghostwriter completely rewrote and which used things that were said to her off the record. She feels awful about that. Plus, she just got the news that she won’t be able to have children. She doesn’t even know if she wants kids, but now she doesn’t have the choice. A handsome stranger in a coffee shop sees her crying and offers words of encouragement then disappears into the streets of NYC.
Several months later, she’s on assignment in the quaint small town of Maple Grove, NH and whom should she see almost immediately? That handsome stranger from the coffee shop. Through a series of events, she ends up staying in his guest house, putting her in close proximity to him and to his 10-year-old daughter. They all bond pretty quickly despite her having a big secret that could change everything.
I did have to suspend some disbelief, but that happens sometimes. I was still engaged and enjoyed their love story.
Recommended for lovers of forced proximity, grief journeys, precocious children, and big families.
I received this eARC via @hambright_pr. All thoughts are mine alone.
contemporary romance | novels | books | reading | Capturing You | Katana Collins | book recs | recommendations | book reviews
October 6, 2025
This was such a great story about healing, found family and destiny.
The story starts with Lydia receiving some unexpected news that change her life where a choice was taken away from her and stumble into the arms of a strange man instantly forming a quick connection and both walking away.
Months later Lydia who is a reporter is assigned to cover a charity event in the small town of Maple Grove where once again she stumbles into the man she met months ago but now she can put a name to the sexy stranger, Cameron Tripp.
Cam is a widow and a single dad. He is not looking for love or commitment but when Lydia enters his life she awakens feelings in him that he hasn't felt in a long time. But Lydia's profession is a red flag for him, the more he tries to fight his feeling for her the more he can't stay away form her specially after the friendship his daughter Maddie develops with Lydia.
There are a few bumps on the road along the way for Lydia and Cam. The tension and uncertainty was done so well and while the story is fast paced it doesn't feel rush at all. I love all the small town vibes along with the charming residents in this town. I think Maddie stole the show with innocence and good heart.
I listened to the audiobook of this story and the narrators did a great job bringing this story to life.
Thank you to Katana Collins and Hambright PR for the ARC & ALC.
October 21, 2024
When Lydia Ryder was told children of her own would never be a part of her future she all but gave up on ever having her happily ever after. She grabbed her camera and passport and let her job lead the way. It has afforded her many wonderful experiences, but none more rewarding than the one she has just discovered in Maple Grove. She never planned on meeting a man like single father Cameron Tripp, but now that she has she wonders if maybe it was meant to be, if maybe this could be the forever she's always dreamed about.
Capturing You is a story of new beginnings, finding love, healing, loss, and family. It follows the lives of two people who weren't looking for love, but found it with a chance meeting and a few heated arguments. They both have their hang-ups when it comes to love, but also see what the possibilities of them being could be. I loved watching them fall for one another and find that happily ever after they both deserved, their beautiful love story really touched my heart!
This sweetly penned romance is destined to hit you right in the heart, it is impossible to read this one and not feel something!! If you like sweet small town romances than you have to check this one out... I promise it'll leave your heart happy!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Capturing You is a story of new beginnings, finding love, healing, loss, and family. It follows the lives of two people who weren't looking for love, but found it with a chance meeting and a few heated arguments. They both have their hang-ups when it comes to love, but also see what the possibilities of them being could be. I loved watching them fall for one another and find that happily ever after they both deserved, their beautiful love story really touched my heart!
This sweetly penned romance is destined to hit you right in the heart, it is impossible to read this one and not feel something!! If you like sweet small town romances than you have to check this one out... I promise it'll leave your heart happy!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
October 5, 2025
Capturing You is a whirlwind romance filled with secrets (and the big reveals) and some healing after losing a loved one.
Tropes:
📷 Handiman x Photo Journalist
📷 Forced Proximity
📷 Single Dad
📷 Opposites Attract
📷 Enemies to Lovers
Cam’s family is wary of reporters ever since his famous brother had a poor article written around him. His daughter is in charge of a charity event to raise money for the condition they lost his late wife to, so they decide to get the media involved to get more attention for the art charity. Lydia is the one with the exclusive, and she’s having to work for a gossip media group to have health insurance. Cam is not happy about it, but his walls slowly start to break because Lydia has somehow won over his daughter…but secrets may destroy them all.
The secrets in this book had me on the edge of my seat. I was just waiting and waiting for the cards to fall, and there was such an interesting twist toward the end that made everything come together in a very dramatic way (this is hard to write without giving spoilers!) I really enjoyed the relationship development between Lydia and Maddie. Lydia’s so convinced she’s not good with kids, but Maddie boosts her confidence and it’s really sweet. I also loved when Cam and Lydia finally got together. It was so good!
🌶️
Thank you, Katana and HPR, for sending me a copy of this book!
Tropes:
📷 Handiman x Photo Journalist
📷 Forced Proximity
📷 Single Dad
📷 Opposites Attract
📷 Enemies to Lovers
Cam’s family is wary of reporters ever since his famous brother had a poor article written around him. His daughter is in charge of a charity event to raise money for the condition they lost his late wife to, so they decide to get the media involved to get more attention for the art charity. Lydia is the one with the exclusive, and she’s having to work for a gossip media group to have health insurance. Cam is not happy about it, but his walls slowly start to break because Lydia has somehow won over his daughter…but secrets may destroy them all.
The secrets in this book had me on the edge of my seat. I was just waiting and waiting for the cards to fall, and there was such an interesting twist toward the end that made everything come together in a very dramatic way (this is hard to write without giving spoilers!) I really enjoyed the relationship development between Lydia and Maddie. Lydia’s so convinced she’s not good with kids, but Maddie boosts her confidence and it’s really sweet. I also loved when Cam and Lydia finally got together. It was so good!
🌶️
Thank you, Katana and HPR, for sending me a copy of this book!
October 16, 2025
This book was easily one of the best I've read this month 🩷
Lydia was a beautifully strong fmc. I have a feeling a good amount of women will be able to relate to her. She's kind hearted and has this maternal instinct about her, even if she didnt believe so. She also stands up for herself and is just overall responsible. Smart in the way she approaches a problem. No matter if it seems impossible!
Cam was equally relatable. Being a parent myself, I can understand completely why he is so protective over Maddie 🩷 Of course he could have been a bit kinder to Lydia. Both in the beginning and at the end. The father in him I think it was what made me swoon. What mom doesn't love a man who puts his child first. Of course......😏 his physique didnt hurt things either.
Maddie and Lydia's relationship was the sweetest 😍 most adorable thing to watch grow! The two took to each other like blueberries and muffins. Maddie was such a brave ten year old! I felt so proud of her character for taking on the world!
I honestly think I'm not a huge fan of the miscommunication trope. It almost always leads to the same thing toward the end and is very predictable. Maybe its just really good writing that it infuriated me so much 😅 I was way invested in these characters. There's no way they will be forgotten.
Thank you Katana Collins and Hambright PR for a gifted copy of this book!
Lydia was a beautifully strong fmc. I have a feeling a good amount of women will be able to relate to her. She's kind hearted and has this maternal instinct about her, even if she didnt believe so. She also stands up for herself and is just overall responsible. Smart in the way she approaches a problem. No matter if it seems impossible!
Cam was equally relatable. Being a parent myself, I can understand completely why he is so protective over Maddie 🩷 Of course he could have been a bit kinder to Lydia. Both in the beginning and at the end. The father in him I think it was what made me swoon. What mom doesn't love a man who puts his child first. Of course......😏 his physique didnt hurt things either.
Maddie and Lydia's relationship was the sweetest 😍 most adorable thing to watch grow! The two took to each other like blueberries and muffins. Maddie was such a brave ten year old! I felt so proud of her character for taking on the world!
I honestly think I'm not a huge fan of the miscommunication trope. It almost always leads to the same thing toward the end and is very predictable. Maybe its just really good writing that it infuriated me so much 😅 I was way invested in these characters. There's no way they will be forgotten.
Thank you Katana Collins and Hambright PR for a gifted copy of this book!
October 15, 2025
This story captures all the charm of a small-town romance with heart, warmth, and a touch of sweetness. The town of Maple Grove feels alive, like a place you’d want to visit, and the story plays out so vividly it’s easy to picture every moment.
Cam and Lydia have instant chemistry, the kind that feels natural and pulls you in right away. Their connection shifts from attraction to frustration and back again, keeping things interesting as they figure out what they really mean to each other. Cam’s daughter, Maddie, adds an extra layer of emotion. Her presence makes the story feel even more genuine, and her bond with Lydia is one of the most touching parts of the book.
While some parts move quickly, the writing is heartfelt and real. Katana Collins delivers characters who are easy to care about and moments that tug at your emotions. It’s softer than some of her past books but full of warmth and sincerity.
A sweet, feel-good romance about love, second chances, and finding your place in a small town. Perfect for readers who like single-dad stories and slow-burn charm with plenty of heart.
Cam and Lydia have instant chemistry, the kind that feels natural and pulls you in right away. Their connection shifts from attraction to frustration and back again, keeping things interesting as they figure out what they really mean to each other. Cam’s daughter, Maddie, adds an extra layer of emotion. Her presence makes the story feel even more genuine, and her bond with Lydia is one of the most touching parts of the book.
While some parts move quickly, the writing is heartfelt and real. Katana Collins delivers characters who are easy to care about and moments that tug at your emotions. It’s softer than some of her past books but full of warmth and sincerity.
A sweet, feel-good romance about love, second chances, and finding your place in a small town. Perfect for readers who like single-dad stories and slow-burn charm with plenty of heart.
October 23, 2025
This book completely took me by surprise. Capturing You is so much more than a romance, it explores grief, loss, and the delicate process of opening your heart again after protecting it. The story moves at such a natural pace. I was constantly invested in Lydia and Cameron, wanting to understand their connection and see how their relationship would evolve. Their bond starts quietly but grows steadily, becoming emotional and meaningful in a way that feels authentic and deserved.
The book also tackles heavy and relatable themes like infertility and heartbreak. Watching the characters support and heal each other while still carrying their own pain was so moving. It reminded me how powerful a well-written story can be for the reader too. I loved every character in this story. The small-town setting, the supporting cast, and of course the sweet moments between Lydia, Cameron, made it feel like home. I have a soft spot for single dad romances, and this one hit all the right notes. I could not put it down and I am still thinking about it 🥹
Thank you to Katana Collins and hambrightpr for gifting me a copy of this beautiful story 🤍
The book also tackles heavy and relatable themes like infertility and heartbreak. Watching the characters support and heal each other while still carrying their own pain was so moving. It reminded me how powerful a well-written story can be for the reader too. I loved every character in this story. The small-town setting, the supporting cast, and of course the sweet moments between Lydia, Cameron, made it feel like home. I have a soft spot for single dad romances, and this one hit all the right notes. I could not put it down and I am still thinking about it 🥹
Thank you to Katana Collins and hambrightpr for gifting me a copy of this beautiful story 🤍
November 13, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐
ARC Review
Tropes:
Small Town
Small Town Boy
City Girl
Single Dad
Second Chance
Found Family
Grumpy x Grumpy
3rd Person POV
This was a rollercoaster of a story, but definitely a sweet one!
Lydia got news that she might not become a mother at a time she never really thought about being a mother, but still had to process the grief of lossing the possibility. To add salt to her wound, she meets the love of her life at a coffee shop, only to lose him within minutes.
Cam is a single dad that lost his life raising his daughter(Maddie) alone, the last thing he needs is a journalist he doesn't trust coming into his life. Lydia is the only person that's caught his attention since the passing of his wife, but she's also a journalist he doesn't trust.
This book was amazing. It touched so many wonderful sensitive points without exaggerating or making anything too cringy. Lydia didn't think of being a mother, until she got the bad news, but she still grieved. Meeting Maddie definitely jumpstarted her maternal instincts, but she didn't suddenly want to be a mom.
Cam was right to be wary of journalists, but he was so mean! And didn't listen to Lydia at all! Honestly do believe he should have groveled A LOT more! That plot twist of Lydia's boss was a nice touch. I was wondering throughout the whole book why she had it out for this family.
The insta-love aspect was not something I favor, but the connection between Lydia & Cam was do genuine it didn't feel insta-love. The relationship between them seems like they were always meant to be.
ARC Review
Tropes:
Small Town
Small Town Boy
City Girl
Single Dad
Second Chance
Found Family
Grumpy x Grumpy
3rd Person POV
This was a rollercoaster of a story, but definitely a sweet one!
Lydia got news that she might not become a mother at a time she never really thought about being a mother, but still had to process the grief of lossing the possibility. To add salt to her wound, she meets the love of her life at a coffee shop, only to lose him within minutes.
Cam is a single dad that lost his life raising his daughter(Maddie) alone, the last thing he needs is a journalist he doesn't trust coming into his life. Lydia is the only person that's caught his attention since the passing of his wife, but she's also a journalist he doesn't trust.
This book was amazing. It touched so many wonderful sensitive points without exaggerating or making anything too cringy. Lydia didn't think of being a mother, until she got the bad news, but she still grieved. Meeting Maddie definitely jumpstarted her maternal instincts, but she didn't suddenly want to be a mom.
Cam was right to be wary of journalists, but he was so mean! And didn't listen to Lydia at all! Honestly do believe he should have groveled A LOT more! That plot twist of Lydia's boss was a nice touch. I was wondering throughout the whole book why she had it out for this family.
The insta-love aspect was not something I favor, but the connection between Lydia & Cam was do genuine it didn't feel insta-love. The relationship between them seems like they were always meant to be.
September 26, 2025
This was perfect small-town romance filled with all the town gossip, the loving family, the cute daughter that really wants a mother figure, and secrets. Lydia and Cameron have two things in common, they have sworn off love and they are very attracted to each other. He's a single dad who has not felt anything for another woman since his wife died. Lydia thinks that dating will be complicated now that she found out she is not able to have children. The thing is they have to work together since Lydia is covering the auction that Cameron’s daughter(Maddie) is organizing. The three of them are spending a lot of time together, and are becoming friends. The friendship that Lydia develops with Maddie, Cameron’s daughter is the sweetest; they both getting something from the relationship. Lydia gets to see that she’s not bad around children and Maddie gets to bond with Lydia over photography and doing girly things like getting pedicures.
This is a heartfelt sweet romance that comes to a crashing halt when then the secret is out about Lydia. Cameron can’t trust her anymore, and she’s once again broken hearted for what could have been. You have to read so you can find out how they pick up the pieces and end up together!
This is a heartfelt sweet romance that comes to a crashing halt when then the secret is out about Lydia. Cameron can’t trust her anymore, and she’s once again broken hearted for what could have been. You have to read so you can find out how they pick up the pieces and end up together!
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