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Wilder #2
I Choose You
The opportunity of a lifetime was before me. A full historical renovation of the Delano Library to bring the building back to its original glory – and show this town my ability to be a unique master craftsman in the process.
I didn’t need some uppity history major nerd babysitting my construction project as the historical preservation designer. I didn’t need her sunshine personality trying to bring color to my gray life.
Still reeling from my breakup with my high school sweetheart, the last thing I was looking for was to get caught up in another relationship. Besides, Claire DeLuca wasn’t sticking around my small town of Calla Bay when this project wrapped up. She’d be off to the next historical renovation while I’d be here.
But my heart doesn’t get the same memo as my brain and now I’m in danger of losing myself to her – and then losing her when our time is up.
I didn’t need some uppity history major nerd babysitting my construction project as the historical preservation designer. I didn’t need her sunshine personality trying to bring color to my gray life.
Still reeling from my breakup with my high school sweetheart, the last thing I was looking for was to get caught up in another relationship. Besides, Claire DeLuca wasn’t sticking around my small town of Calla Bay when this project wrapped up. She’d be off to the next historical renovation while I’d be here.
But my heart doesn’t get the same memo as my brain and now I’m in danger of losing myself to her – and then losing her when our time is up.
- GenresRomance
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 5, 2025
37 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Isla Stelmark
5 books38 followersIsla Stelmark, a contemporary romance author, grew up in a coastal Massachusetts town that she continues to call home. Isla is a lifelong book enthusiast, and dedicates her days to writing untamed love stories with authentic, relatable characters. When not writing, Isla enjoys immersing herself in a good book with a cup of coffee and cuddling with her two cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 6, 2025
I was lucky enough to be selected to ARC read I Choose You ahead of its release date of June 5th, 2025.
The grumpy X sunshine dynamic was perfection. The found family aspect was heart warming. The banter was top notch and had me literally laughing out loud. This was a bit of a slow burn, but the character development and plot drove it along perfectly. The spicy scenes were well written and I would rate them between 2-3 peppers. Perfect for a small town romance. I can’t wait to read the next one.
I read I Follow You right before this, and while I would recommend to read it first, it’s not absolutely necessary. You will, however, run into spoilers for the first couple if you read this one first.
I love how Claire and Reid met, as well as seeing their relationship develop and change over their time working together. He absolutely should have been embarrassed for how he acted when they met.
This was such a cute and fun read. Isla did a great job with world building. I can imagine how nice the town looked during the holiday season. I can picture walking into Flower Power for a cup of coffee. I wish I could visit Calla Bay.
The grumpy X sunshine dynamic was perfection. The found family aspect was heart warming. The banter was top notch and had me literally laughing out loud. This was a bit of a slow burn, but the character development and plot drove it along perfectly. The spicy scenes were well written and I would rate them between 2-3 peppers. Perfect for a small town romance. I can’t wait to read the next one.
I read I Follow You right before this, and while I would recommend to read it first, it’s not absolutely necessary. You will, however, run into spoilers for the first couple if you read this one first.
I love how Claire and Reid met, as well as seeing their relationship develop and change over their time working together. He absolutely should have been embarrassed for how he acted when they met.
This was such a cute and fun read. Isla did a great job with world building. I can imagine how nice the town looked during the holiday season. I can picture walking into Flower Power for a cup of coffee. I wish I could visit Calla Bay.
May 30, 2025
This is the second book in the Wilder Series that follows the youngest brother Reid. He is getting over a breakup when he meets Clair. He is determined to hate her but their chemistry is just too much not to cave. This has reverse age gap, grumpy/sunshine/ small town romance all in it.
June 5, 2025
I Choose You - OUT NOW!
Book 2 in the Wilder Series.
Follow Wyatt, Luke, Lydia, and Reid in this small-town, spicy romance series set in a coastal town in Massachusetts.
Meet Reid and Claire, and jump into the town of Calla Bay!
~ Small Town Romance
~ Grumpy Sunshine
~ He Falls First
~ Reverse Age Gap (32/24)
~ Slow Burn
Amazon: https://a.co/d/4eowPR5
Book 2 in the Wilder Series.
Follow Wyatt, Luke, Lydia, and Reid in this small-town, spicy romance series set in a coastal town in Massachusetts.
Meet Reid and Claire, and jump into the town of Calla Bay!
~ Small Town Romance
~ Grumpy Sunshine
~ He Falls First
~ Reverse Age Gap (32/24)
~ Slow Burn
Amazon: https://a.co/d/4eowPR5
July 18, 2025
He has been hired to restore the Delano Library to its former glory. She has been hired as a historical consultant for the project. Want to find out what happens when this grumpy contractor and sunshine consultant meet?
I Choose You is a book with a fun and emotional story that will have you hooked. Reid is the quintessential grumpy MMC who just wants to be left alone to complete his project the way he envisions. Claire is full of sunshine and is determined to make Reid see the benefit of working with her. Their sparks, banter, and even emotional moments are what makes this book such a great read.
I really enjoyed this book because the storyline moves at a good pace and has a great mix of fun and emotional. The small town and Reid’s family and friends add so much to the story. I can’t wait to read more books about them.
If you’re looking for a book that will give you the perfect grumpy sunshine read, I Choose You will be an instant hit.
I Choose You is a book with a fun and emotional story that will have you hooked. Reid is the quintessential grumpy MMC who just wants to be left alone to complete his project the way he envisions. Claire is full of sunshine and is determined to make Reid see the benefit of working with her. Their sparks, banter, and even emotional moments are what makes this book such a great read.
I really enjoyed this book because the storyline moves at a good pace and has a great mix of fun and emotional. The small town and Reid’s family and friends add so much to the story. I can’t wait to read more books about them.
If you’re looking for a book that will give you the perfect grumpy sunshine read, I Choose You will be an instant hit.
June 1, 2025
"These pants were not the forgiving type, and the last thing I needed was to give Claire a show."
When I read the blurb on this book, I immediately went to request the ARC because I knew I'd love this book! spoiler alert - I did!! It's got every trope I love.
Claire and Reid are working on the Delano Library in his home town of Calla Bay. Small town romance here I come! Claire is a rich senator's daughter and is treated like crap by her family. His family is everything you'd dream of (her found family!). He doesn't want Claire's help with the library project but she's in the contract so he's stuck with her (grumpy x sunshine). She's 8 years older (age gap!) and she's the only one who cares. She's the only woman on the work site and of course he watches carefully to make sure no one oversteps (touch her and die!).
There isn't much miscommunication here. These two are both hurt by their past relationships but they are sweet to each other. The banter is great. His family is wonderful and takes her right in. The maturity here is top notch as well - she's friendly with his ex and she's not scared to call him out on his bs. I love the detail on their library project -bringing in descriptions of design elements, making them come to life, and construction issues. There is also some top notch spice. Their chemistry is boiling over.
"Stop looking at it Claire. He already wants you to say hi. You don't need to encourage it."
This is the second in the Wilder Series. The first book is I Found You which is the story of his brother Wyatt and Maeve. I'm going back to read that one and the next two books are coming out in the Fall of 2025 and Winter of 2025. I can't wait!
"Love is a rare and wonderful things. Be careful of letting it slip away because you're too focused on the wrong things.
Tropes include:
*found family
*age gap
*grumpy x sunshine
*small town romance
*touch her and die
*I'd follow you anywhere
I received this book for free and am writing this review voluntarily. Thank you to Isla Stelmark and Grey's Promotions for the opportunity!
When I read the blurb on this book, I immediately went to request the ARC because I knew I'd love this book! spoiler alert - I did!! It's got every trope I love.
Claire and Reid are working on the Delano Library in his home town of Calla Bay. Small town romance here I come! Claire is a rich senator's daughter and is treated like crap by her family. His family is everything you'd dream of (her found family!). He doesn't want Claire's help with the library project but she's in the contract so he's stuck with her (grumpy x sunshine). She's 8 years older (age gap!) and she's the only one who cares. She's the only woman on the work site and of course he watches carefully to make sure no one oversteps (touch her and die!).
There isn't much miscommunication here. These two are both hurt by their past relationships but they are sweet to each other. The banter is great. His family is wonderful and takes her right in. The maturity here is top notch as well - she's friendly with his ex and she's not scared to call him out on his bs. I love the detail on their library project -bringing in descriptions of design elements, making them come to life, and construction issues. There is also some top notch spice. Their chemistry is boiling over.
"Stop looking at it Claire. He already wants you to say hi. You don't need to encourage it."
This is the second in the Wilder Series. The first book is I Found You which is the story of his brother Wyatt and Maeve. I'm going back to read that one and the next two books are coming out in the Fall of 2025 and Winter of 2025. I can't wait!
"Love is a rare and wonderful things. Be careful of letting it slip away because you're too focused on the wrong things.
Tropes include:
*found family
*age gap
*grumpy x sunshine
*small town romance
*touch her and die
*I'd follow you anywhere
I received this book for free and am writing this review voluntarily. Thank you to Isla Stelmark and Grey's Promotions for the opportunity!
May 30, 2025
4.5/5 stars. Wow wow wow!! I really enjoyed this book. I didn't want to put it down and any chance I got, I picked it up quickly. I found myself smiling and giddy throughout this one. This is a grumpy/sunshine small town romance and the characters were great! I can't wait to go back and read the first in the series to learn more about the Wilder brothers. The character development with some of the characters in this one was phenomenal. The banter was great between Claire and Reid as well. Reading about Claire's passion of historical design and the Delano Library makes me want to see this as a movie.
There is some spice in this one. Here are the chapters to expect it in if you want to be wary:
Ch. 18 - spice 🌶️🌶️
Ch. 21 - spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ch. 23 - spice 🌶️🌶️
Ch. 24 - spice 🌶️🌶️
Ch. 27 - spice 🌶️🌶️
Ch. 32 - spice 🌶️🌶️
There is some spice in this one. Here are the chapters to expect it in if you want to be wary:
Ch. 18 - spice 🌶️🌶️
Ch. 21 - spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Ch. 23 - spice 🌶️🌶️
Ch. 24 - spice 🌶️🌶️
Ch. 27 - spice 🌶️🌶️
Ch. 32 - spice 🌶️🌶️
June 9, 2025
This series is so wholesome. The characters do face struggles but they are warm and easy to like.
There is so much to like in this book - grumpy x sunshine, small-town romance, mended heart, bit of history and architecture, reverse age gap, PLUS a MMC who is good with tools. IYKYK.
Reid is getting over his ex and has to work with an out of towner on his first huge project. Both things he didn't expect or want to be doing. He quickly becomes obsessed with Claire, but fights it building the tension perfectly. There are some giddy, ankle kicking moments in this book and I absolutely loved it.
Very grateful to receive an ARC and I'm very excited to see where Isla goes next and I'm hoping we get Officer Luke Wilder🤞🏼
There is so much to like in this book - grumpy x sunshine, small-town romance, mended heart, bit of history and architecture, reverse age gap, PLUS a MMC who is good with tools. IYKYK.
Reid is getting over his ex and has to work with an out of towner on his first huge project. Both things he didn't expect or want to be doing. He quickly becomes obsessed with Claire, but fights it building the tension perfectly. There are some giddy, ankle kicking moments in this book and I absolutely loved it.
Very grateful to receive an ARC and I'm very excited to see where Isla goes next and I'm hoping we get Officer Luke Wilder🤞🏼
June 5, 2025
I loved how Reid griped about Claire to her face without knowing who she was.
I was tremendously amused when Reid swore he was t interested in her but then put his mark on her if anyone else sniffed around her!
I thought Reid should’ve used his nail on the jerk Andrew!
I felt sorry for Claire’s mom at the end because her life was rather empty and stale.
My heart broke during one scene but it quickly mended because I knew a HEA was in order.
Thanks Grey’s Promotion for the early copy.
I was tremendously amused when Reid swore he was t interested in her but then put his mark on her if anyone else sniffed around her!
I thought Reid should’ve used his nail on the jerk Andrew!
I felt sorry for Claire’s mom at the end because her life was rather empty and stale.
My heart broke during one scene but it quickly mended because I knew a HEA was in order.
Thanks Grey’s Promotion for the early copy.
June 4, 2025
This book was amazing!!! 🌟
A page turner for sure. The prologue had me hooked!
I love the story of Claire and Reid. I appreciate how Isla (author) described coping skills and grounding techniques.
The main characters stories are so raw and full of emotion.
They had their own issues and I love how Isla wrote about their resilience and braveness to reach their full potential. They learned to love themselves and accept who they truly are, to the core. They also learned what true love is - within each other. Isla defines the lightness and boldness it takes to choose the person you love. 🌟
Brilliantly written! I truly loved this novel. 🌟
Thank you so much for my ARC copy! I’m honored to have had the opportunity to read it before it’s released! Thank you Isla Stelmark. 🌟
A page turner for sure. The prologue had me hooked!
I love the story of Claire and Reid. I appreciate how Isla (author) described coping skills and grounding techniques.
The main characters stories are so raw and full of emotion.
They had their own issues and I love how Isla wrote about their resilience and braveness to reach their full potential. They learned to love themselves and accept who they truly are, to the core. They also learned what true love is - within each other. Isla defines the lightness and boldness it takes to choose the person you love. 🌟
Brilliantly written! I truly loved this novel. 🌟
Thank you so much for my ARC copy! I’m honored to have had the opportunity to read it before it’s released! Thank you Isla Stelmark. 🌟
July 14, 2025
Wonderful small town romance story. Was able to read it in an evening, and I teared up a few times while reading. Sweet and spicy open door scenes throughout.
May 28, 2025
Another home run with this book! Small town builder is working with an uptown city designer. The goal, to restore the historical library in his small town. The flirts, the personal interactions, real and fake are so spot on. The romance dance takes many turns, some funny, some not so funny, but never sad. It is rare when the lady slips on ice and the guy misses catching her! That, my friends is totally me. They laugh it off, enter a diner where she takes a bow. Now, you will have to read this to see the reveal of the outcome. Ms. Ilsa has a true talent in creating characters with realistic emotions. Cannot wait for more from her.
June 17, 2025
I Choose You is a small town, heartfelt and heart mending book. The banter between Claire and Ried was great, and some of the character development was amazing. I love how resilient they both were through their individual struggles, and how they learnt to love themslves. Isla highlighted incredibly well that to love is to be brave and sometimes even bold.
June 13, 2025
Order your copy today!
Amazon: https://a.co/d/emwcVg3
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4cb7PNd
My review (spoiler free). Very enjoyable read. I found myself loving the town and people in it as I read and, of course, now want to read the stories of the side characters, as well, in their upcoming books. (And am glad to know there’s another already written to jump into that I missed).
I am still angry with certain characters in this book that were antagonists. The characters in question weren’t important - I just found myself continuing the story in my mind afterward, making sure they “learned their lessons” well enough!
Claire and Reid (main characters) were a great balance and it was fun seeing them come together.
Anyway- definitely order your copy of this one so you can jump in. You’ll love Calla Bay and the Wilders.
Amazon: https://a.co/d/emwcVg3
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4cb7PNd
My review (spoiler free). Very enjoyable read. I found myself loving the town and people in it as I read and, of course, now want to read the stories of the side characters, as well, in their upcoming books. (And am glad to know there’s another already written to jump into that I missed).
I am still angry with certain characters in this book that were antagonists. The characters in question weren’t important - I just found myself continuing the story in my mind afterward, making sure they “learned their lessons” well enough!
Claire and Reid (main characters) were a great balance and it was fun seeing them come together.
Anyway- definitely order your copy of this one so you can jump in. You’ll love Calla Bay and the Wilders.
June 29, 2025
I absolutely loved reading I Choose You! It was such a heartfelt, small-town romance. Claire and Reid’s story felt both tender and real, and I enjoyed watching their connection unfold in such an organic, grounded way.
One of my favorite parts of the book was Reid’s family. The warmth, the loyalty, and how deeply they were rooted in his life made the entire story feel even more inviting. Claire’s family dynamic was more complicated, but it added depth to her character and gave the story some emotional contrast.
I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about the age gap dynamic at first, since it’s not a trope I usually read, but Isla wrote it so well.
This was my first book by Isla Stelmark, and I truly enjoyed being part of this ARC. I highly recommend to anyone who loves small-town settings, layered characters, and a romance that feels both comforting and real. Reid is definitely one to fall for. 💙
4⭐️ | 2.5🌶️
One of my favorite parts of the book was Reid’s family. The warmth, the loyalty, and how deeply they were rooted in his life made the entire story feel even more inviting. Claire’s family dynamic was more complicated, but it added depth to her character and gave the story some emotional contrast.
I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about the age gap dynamic at first, since it’s not a trope I usually read, but Isla wrote it so well.
This was my first book by Isla Stelmark, and I truly enjoyed being part of this ARC. I highly recommend to anyone who loves small-town settings, layered characters, and a romance that feels both comforting and real. Reid is definitely one to fall for. 💙
4⭐️ | 2.5🌶️
May 29, 2025
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 5 starts
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/ 5 peppers (spice)
Claire and Reid couldn’t be more different. They are at different stages in life, personalities very different. Family life, different.
One thing they have in common is they’re both dealing with recent breakups. Another, they’ve both been hired to bring the old library back to life.
She’s sweet, he’s angry. She’s thrilled to be there and he’s annoyed at having her “babysit” him.
Over the 8 months it takes to do this renovation Claire and Reid learn to deal with each other. Then they learn to like each other. They build a beautiful friendship. When he comes to her rescue their relationship starts to feel different.
She’s only there for this job…her stay in Calla Bay is temporary. Falling in love isn’t practical. Someone is going to get hurt….right?
What will happen when it comes time for Claire to leave? What will she choose, her career or Reid? And Reid…what will he choose? Will he stay in the only place he’s ever lived or choose the woman who stole his heart?
Who will put it all on the line when they say, “I. Choose. You. Only you.”
I loved this book, the characters, the setting, the story. I’m really excited for you to read it and for the next book!!!
Thanks to Isla Stelmark and Grey’ Promo for the ARC!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 5 starts
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/ 5 peppers (spice)
Claire and Reid couldn’t be more different. They are at different stages in life, personalities very different. Family life, different.
One thing they have in common is they’re both dealing with recent breakups. Another, they’ve both been hired to bring the old library back to life.
She’s sweet, he’s angry. She’s thrilled to be there and he’s annoyed at having her “babysit” him.
Over the 8 months it takes to do this renovation Claire and Reid learn to deal with each other. Then they learn to like each other. They build a beautiful friendship. When he comes to her rescue their relationship starts to feel different.
She’s only there for this job…her stay in Calla Bay is temporary. Falling in love isn’t practical. Someone is going to get hurt….right?
What will happen when it comes time for Claire to leave? What will she choose, her career or Reid? And Reid…what will he choose? Will he stay in the only place he’s ever lived or choose the woman who stole his heart?
Who will put it all on the line when they say, “I. Choose. You. Only you.”
I loved this book, the characters, the setting, the story. I’m really excited for you to read it and for the next book!!!
Thanks to Isla Stelmark and Grey’ Promo for the ARC!!
June 12, 2025
I knew I would love I Choose You before I even read the first page. Small town, opposites attract, and the project that brings Reid and Claire together is restoring a library?! All of my favorite subjects rolled into one book!
I am so smitten with Reid and Claire. Despite the (reverse) age gap and difference in upbringing, they’re more alike than they even realized and watching them figure out each other’s strengths and struggles was so tender. Calla Bay is a cute, coastal small town, but nothing about the residents and their love for the town and each other is stereotypical or forced. Definitely not the life that Claire is used to, but she falls for Calla Bay as hard and fast as she does for Reid. I Choose You is one of the most beautiful examples of a found family I’ve ever read. I’m excited to get to spend more time with the Wilders and the people of Calla Bay, and that tea that started brewing at the end of this book? It’s going to be piping hot!
There is a fair amount of spice in I Choose You, and while you could skip it, it plays such a crucial role in the changing dynamics of Reid and Claire’s relationship that the book just wouldn’t be the same without it.
I am so smitten with Reid and Claire. Despite the (reverse) age gap and difference in upbringing, they’re more alike than they even realized and watching them figure out each other’s strengths and struggles was so tender. Calla Bay is a cute, coastal small town, but nothing about the residents and their love for the town and each other is stereotypical or forced. Definitely not the life that Claire is used to, but she falls for Calla Bay as hard and fast as she does for Reid. I Choose You is one of the most beautiful examples of a found family I’ve ever read. I’m excited to get to spend more time with the Wilders and the people of Calla Bay, and that tea that started brewing at the end of this book? It’s going to be piping hot!
There is a fair amount of spice in I Choose You, and while you could skip it, it plays such a crucial role in the changing dynamics of Reid and Claire’s relationship that the book just wouldn’t be the same without it.
May 28, 2025
I Choose You was not only my first book by Isla Stelmark, it is also my first small-town reverse age-gap romance, along with some of my other favorite tropes. Prepare for a slow-burn romance that will tug at your heartstrings, that will deliver all the feels.
Do you like grumpy x sunshine vibes? Check. Emotional tension that builds with every scene? Check. Full of engaging side characters and a real sense of found family? Check.
Claire is focused, creative, and trying really hard to keep things professional. But Reid? He's quiet, broody, and unexpectedly soft—and the chemistry between them is undeniable. Every little moment, glance, and interaction had me fully invested. This book beautifully weaves together emotional vulnerability, humor, and chemistry. I’m stoked to get my hands on the next part of this series! It’s an uplifting and heartwarming read with a steamy romance.
**Thank you to Grey Promotions for this e-ARC**
Do you like grumpy x sunshine vibes? Check. Emotional tension that builds with every scene? Check. Full of engaging side characters and a real sense of found family? Check.
Claire is focused, creative, and trying really hard to keep things professional. But Reid? He's quiet, broody, and unexpectedly soft—and the chemistry between them is undeniable. Every little moment, glance, and interaction had me fully invested. This book beautifully weaves together emotional vulnerability, humor, and chemistry. I’m stoked to get my hands on the next part of this series! It’s an uplifting and heartwarming read with a steamy romance.
**Thank you to Grey Promotions for this e-ARC**
June 5, 2025
Having already read I Found You, the first book in the Wilder series, I was excited to dive into Claire and Reid’s story, and it absolutely delivered.
Claire, a historical preservation designer, is passionate about her work and ready for a fresh start. Reid, on the other hand, is a rugged builder, deeply rooted in his small town and hesitant about change. Their paths cross when they’re forced to work together on restoring the town’s library.
Very well written Grumpy x Sunshine. I loved how their relationship developed, especially the banter. Claire, despite facing challenges with her family and career, remains strong and hopeful.
The small-town setting and the side characters made the world feel even more real. The Wilder family, especially, brought humour and heart, making the story feel like more than just a romance—it was about finding support, acceptance, and love in unexpected places.
Claire, a historical preservation designer, is passionate about her work and ready for a fresh start. Reid, on the other hand, is a rugged builder, deeply rooted in his small town and hesitant about change. Their paths cross when they’re forced to work together on restoring the town’s library.
Very well written Grumpy x Sunshine. I loved how their relationship developed, especially the banter. Claire, despite facing challenges with her family and career, remains strong and hopeful.
The small-town setting and the side characters made the world feel even more real. The Wilder family, especially, brought humour and heart, making the story feel like more than just a romance—it was about finding support, acceptance, and love in unexpected places.
May 28, 2025
This book was such a sweet surprise! I didn’t realize I was signing up for a slow burn romance that would tug at my heartstrings, but it delivered all the feels. Small-town charm? Check. Grumpy x sunshine vibes? Elite. Emotional tension that builds with every scene? Yes please.
Claire is focused, creative, and trying really hard to keep things professional. But Reid? He’s quiet, broody, and unexpectedly soft—and the chemistry between them is undeniable. Every little moment, glance, and interaction had me fully invested.
This story is about more than just falling in love—it’s about choosing connection, opening up, and letting yourself be seen. Definitely add this to your TBR!
**Thank you to Grey Promotions for this e-ARC**
Claire is focused, creative, and trying really hard to keep things professional. But Reid? He’s quiet, broody, and unexpectedly soft—and the chemistry between them is undeniable. Every little moment, glance, and interaction had me fully invested.
This story is about more than just falling in love—it’s about choosing connection, opening up, and letting yourself be seen. Definitely add this to your TBR!
**Thank you to Grey Promotions for this e-ARC**
May 31, 2025
Reid was dumped in the previous book, and he has been a bear ever since. He doesn't need somebody looking over his shoulder while he is doing the library renovation, and he makes sure everyone knows that. He even tells Claire that he isn't happy about her job. But Claire is used to people not appreciating her. She is very good at keeping a smile and just doing the work anyway. Eventually, Reid can't keep up the grumpiness around her. She is just too special. They slowly form a relationship over months, but she leaves when the job ends. What will they do then? I enjoyed these characters. I wish there had been a bit more pay-off for Claire when she learns to stand up for herself. Still, we get a nice HEA.
June 5, 2025
If you’re looking for a small town romance, grumpy x sunshine, slow burn, he falls first novel then this is for you! A page turner for sure!! What a beautiful written novel. This is the story of Reid and Claire, where both of them have their own issues but love brings them together. I really love how we get to see how resilient Reid is following heartbreak. The chemistry and banter between Claire and Reid…my oh my. ❤️ The way Isla wrote this novel is just so mesmerizing! This book not only showed how to experience love but also a family bond like no other. I could not put it down and cannot wait for the next two novels! Thank you again Isla Stelmark for selecting me for an ARC! I give this book an astonishing 5 stars 🌟 and I loved everything about it!
June 1, 2025
What To Expect:
- grumpy x sunshine
- small town
- reverse age gap
- slow burn
you know what this book felt like? a spicy hallmark movie and i was so here for it!
i want to visit calla bay so badly! its the perfect picturesque small town. i would love to see it during holidays too. i just know it would be so beautiful.
the character development and growth was absolutely insane. it was written so well and was just everything. i am such a sucker for banter and the banter between claire and reid was the cherry on top!
thank you so much greys promo and isla stelmark for providing me with a copy of this book!
June 6, 2025
5/5:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Greys promotion and Isla stelmark for the ARC!!
Isla, you are so nice and I’m so grateful that I got to read not only this book but the first book in this series early!
I have enjoyed this series SO much and I’m literally gnawing at the bars of my enclosure for the next books.
-Found Family
-GrumpyxSunshine
-Small town romance
-Workplace Romance
-Opposites Attract
-Reverse Age Gap
This book was everything and more. I seriously don’t think I could have enjoyed it anymore.
This book follows Reid who is the youngest Wilder brother. Reid is getting over a breakup when he meets Claire who I absolutely ADORE. Reid is doing everything in his power to keep Claire’s vibrant personality out of his life but nothing ever goes as we plan. I’m obsessed with Claire she is so so sweet and honestly deserves the world. The chemistry was AMAZING. I’m a sucker for a good Found Family and Isla Stelmark gets it right every single time.
I Found You out now!!
Thank you Greys promotion and Isla stelmark for the ARC!!
Isla, you are so nice and I’m so grateful that I got to read not only this book but the first book in this series early!
I have enjoyed this series SO much and I’m literally gnawing at the bars of my enclosure for the next books.
-Found Family
-GrumpyxSunshine
-Small town romance
-Workplace Romance
-Opposites Attract
-Reverse Age Gap
This book was everything and more. I seriously don’t think I could have enjoyed it anymore.
This book follows Reid who is the youngest Wilder brother. Reid is getting over a breakup when he meets Claire who I absolutely ADORE. Reid is doing everything in his power to keep Claire’s vibrant personality out of his life but nothing ever goes as we plan. I’m obsessed with Claire she is so so sweet and honestly deserves the world. The chemistry was AMAZING. I’m a sucker for a good Found Family and Isla Stelmark gets it right every single time.
I Found You out now!!
June 5, 2025
I Choose You is such a cute story set in the small coastal New England town of Calla Bay.
It was so fun to watch Reid shed his grumpy exterior and become obsessed with the one person he swore he’d hate.
I loved watching Claire learn how to stand up for herself to all the people she let push her around for her entire life. I was right there with Reid, getting angry on her behalf! She finally found the life she always dreamed of by doing so, and I love that for her!
The story definitely felt like a Hallmark movie with its cozy small town, main characters with very different backgrounds (contractor and politician’s daughter), and even some holiday scenes included.
Make sure to get your copy! Special thanks to @islastelmark_author and @greyspromo for the ARC! 🩷
It was so fun to watch Reid shed his grumpy exterior and become obsessed with the one person he swore he’d hate.
I loved watching Claire learn how to stand up for herself to all the people she let push her around for her entire life. I was right there with Reid, getting angry on her behalf! She finally found the life she always dreamed of by doing so, and I love that for her!
The story definitely felt like a Hallmark movie with its cozy small town, main characters with very different backgrounds (contractor and politician’s daughter), and even some holiday scenes included.
Make sure to get your copy! Special thanks to @islastelmark_author and @greyspromo for the ARC! 🩷
June 5, 2025
This is the second book in this series, and this is Claire and Reid’s story.
Working on the Delano Library, Claire is a historical preservation designer, while Reid is an artisan where his building skills who will bring her designs to life.
This is a well written slow burn story, which has found family, friendships, emotions, grumpy / sunshine, opposites attract, reverse age gap, workplace romance, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Working on the Delano Library, Claire is a historical preservation designer, while Reid is an artisan where his building skills who will bring her designs to life.
This is a well written slow burn story, which has found family, friendships, emotions, grumpy / sunshine, opposites attract, reverse age gap, workplace romance, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
June 5, 2025
another must read for the summer 🌷
We explore the connection between Claire and Reid, this story takes place in a small town which is one of my favorite tropes. Claire is passionate and confident while Reid is quiet and grumpy which makes them so perfect for each other as they complete one another. It was a slow burn but so worth it because we got to see the emotional depth between these characters. I loved the world building of Calla Bay it just felt super cozy. This was such an enjoyable read and I loved that we explored topics of healing and trust.
must read if you’re into:
-grumpy x sunshine
-reverse age gap
-small town romance
-slow burn
Thank you for this ARC!
We explore the connection between Claire and Reid, this story takes place in a small town which is one of my favorite tropes. Claire is passionate and confident while Reid is quiet and grumpy which makes them so perfect for each other as they complete one another. It was a slow burn but so worth it because we got to see the emotional depth between these characters. I loved the world building of Calla Bay it just felt super cozy. This was such an enjoyable read and I loved that we explored topics of healing and trust.
must read if you’re into:
-grumpy x sunshine
-reverse age gap
-small town romance
-slow burn
Thank you for this ARC!
June 6, 2025
This book brings all the vibes, we're talking slow burn, workplace romance, small town, grumpy/sunshine, reverse age gap, and he falls first! Ugh, I love it when he falls first.
The first page had me hooked, I was like umm ok wtf just happened and I immediately fell in love with Reid. The banter between the main characters as well as the side characters was top-notch. The angst towards the end had me stressed, and the times when we saw Reid be his most amazing and sweet self had me blushing and smiling. Claire is a bad ass who just needed a little reminder, and Reid was always there to just that. This has a certified happily ever after. I will be following this series until the very end.
The first page had me hooked, I was like umm ok wtf just happened and I immediately fell in love with Reid. The banter between the main characters as well as the side characters was top-notch. The angst towards the end had me stressed, and the times when we saw Reid be his most amazing and sweet self had me blushing and smiling. Claire is a bad ass who just needed a little reminder, and Reid was always there to just that. This has a certified happily ever after. I will be following this series until the very end.
June 8, 2025
I loved Reid and Claire! Claire's sunshine personality was a great combination with Reid's grumpiness. Reid was determined not to like Claire because he thought she would be hovering over his every move on the project they were working on. He was pleasantly surprised how much he liked her ideas. She soon had his grumpiness melting away. Reid had to keep reminding himself that she was only in his town temporarily. He couldn't fall for her. Claire was surprised how much she came to like Reid and the small town of Calla Bay. She realized it would not be easy to leave. Could Reid convince Claire to stay, or would she leave to work on more projects elsewhere? I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
May 27, 2025
This book is a cute small town romance with characters that you grow to love by the end of the story. Would definitely say this would be a great and easy read for all romance lovers. The MMC being the younger one in the age gap is refreshing to see since it usually happens the other way around. The character growth for the FMC is wonderful to see since she starts off as someone I didn’t like too much. Overall I enjoyed the storyline and the colorful side characters with their own journeys and development.
May 30, 2025
okay. oh my god. I can't explain the love i have for this series, it's so good. For me this series is even better than the Twisted series (which I loved).
I'm so excited for the next book, and so grateful for Isla for allowing me to read this early 💗
The ending with the mother almost made me cry, which is weird because I don't cry. And WITH JULIET?? OH? THAT BCH?? The story was perfect, the start, the middle, the ending, everything. Reading both this and the 1st book in this series really made me believe that love exists.
I'm so excited for the next book, and so grateful for Isla for allowing me to read this early 💗
The ending with the mother almost made me cry, which is weird because I don't cry. And WITH JULIET?? OH? THAT BCH?? The story was perfect, the start, the middle, the ending, everything. Reading both this and the 1st book in this series really made me believe that love exists.
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