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The Re-Do List
Not yet published
Expected 27 Jan 26What would you do with a second chance at your first time? Following a bad breakup, Willow Lewis tackles a re-do list with the help of her brother’s best friend in this sweet and sexy new romance from USA Today bestselling author Denise Williams.
Willow experienced all her big firsts with her high school sweetheart. Now, reeling from their very public breakup, she wants to get a re-do on those important moments. While dog-sitting for her brother during his deployment, she has a chance to start over and spending time with his best friend gives her the confidence to start checking items off her “Re-Do list.”
Deacon promised his best friend two things when Cruz left for a that he’d look out for Willow, and that he’d keep his hands off Cruz’s baby sister. “Operation Re-Do” is innocent enough at Deacon likes Willow and he’s willing to help her out any way he can. But when the list of firsts turns from a first dance to first kisses and more, Deacon can’t deny the connection he feels to Willow.
As Deacon’s and Willow’s firsts turn to seconds, thirds, and fourths, this pair can’t get enough of each other—and they support each other through new challenges. But they are both aware there’s an end date to Willow’s time in town… and even if she were to stay, Deacon doesn’t know how to choose between his loyalty to his closest friend and the woman he’s fallen in love with. With no more romantic moments on her list for them to re-do, can these two still find a way to stay together?
Willow experienced all her big firsts with her high school sweetheart. Now, reeling from their very public breakup, she wants to get a re-do on those important moments. While dog-sitting for her brother during his deployment, she has a chance to start over and spending time with his best friend gives her the confidence to start checking items off her “Re-Do list.”
Deacon promised his best friend two things when Cruz left for a that he’d look out for Willow, and that he’d keep his hands off Cruz’s baby sister. “Operation Re-Do” is innocent enough at Deacon likes Willow and he’s willing to help her out any way he can. But when the list of firsts turns from a first dance to first kisses and more, Deacon can’t deny the connection he feels to Willow.
As Deacon’s and Willow’s firsts turn to seconds, thirds, and fourths, this pair can’t get enough of each other—and they support each other through new challenges. But they are both aware there’s an end date to Willow’s time in town… and even if she were to stay, Deacon doesn’t know how to choose between his loyalty to his closest friend and the woman he’s fallen in love with. With no more romantic moments on her list for them to re-do, can these two still find a way to stay together?
432 pages, Paperback
Expected publication January 27, 2026
10666 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
December 11, 2025
REVIEW TO COME💞😍😍💞!!!!!!!
Oh, I just loved this book so much😍😍😭😭!!!!!!!
Oh, I just loved this book so much😍😍😭😭!!!!!!!
December 31, 2025
I finished this one with that soft, content feeling you get after a cozy afternoon read. 😌😌
At its heart, this story is about second chances—not the dramatic, life-altering kind, but the quiet, personal ones. A woman licking her wounds after a very public breakup. A list meant to reclaim moments that once felt stolen or wasted. And a man who steps in not to fix her, but to stand beside her while she figures herself out.
The dynamic between Willow and Deacon was undeniably sweet. Deacon’s steady, supportive presence was probably my favorite part of the book. He encourages her without pushing, protects without smothering, and helps her step out of her comfort zone in ways that feel genuinely caring rather than performative. 🫶🏼🫶🏼 Their moments together range from tender to steamy. And Willow’s emotions growth was satisfying to watch unfold. By the end, she’s more confident, more self-assured, and finally choosing herself (which honestly might’ve been the strongest takeaway for me).
One thing I did wish had been explored more was Willow’s body representation. From the cover and a few scattered mentions, it’s clear she’s meant to be curvy, but it stays very surface-level. There was so much opportunity to weave that into her self-image, her confidence journey, and even her romantic experiences, and it felt like a missed chance to add depth to her character which made me a little disappointed. 😔
Overall, this was a genuinely cute and easy read. Perfect if you want something comforting, romantic, and low-stress. It’s not extraordinary, but it’s not forgettable in a bad way either. Just one of those books you enjoy in the moment and move on from with a small smile. I’d recommend it if you’re in the mood for something sweet and simple… just don’t go in expecting fireworks.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
"You're one of my people."
He squeezed his fingers with mine. "And I take care of
my people."
“I’d never fully understood the expression of melting into a kiss. I'd read it hundreds of times in romance novels, but I'd never felt it until I sank against him, losing track of where his body ended and mine began.”
“She was beautiful, like the kind of beautiful that made my heart rate speed up in her presence.”
“Willow had become like oxygen to me,”
"When I tell you that you're beautiful, it's not because I'm just realizing it. It's because it bears repeating."
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
🐕 age gap (10 years)
🐕 brother’s best friend
🐕 second chances
🐕 friends → lovers
🐕 self discovery
🐕 dual POV
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Berkley Publishing Group, and Denise Williams for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
spice rating:【 🔥🔥🔥 】
swearing: yes
⸻⸻⸻
・❥・⁀➷ pre-read
cutie cover 🐶 can’t wait for this! i have a feeling the fmc is going to rediscover some confidence so i’m so excited for that🤞🏼
At its heart, this story is about second chances—not the dramatic, life-altering kind, but the quiet, personal ones. A woman licking her wounds after a very public breakup. A list meant to reclaim moments that once felt stolen or wasted. And a man who steps in not to fix her, but to stand beside her while she figures herself out.
The dynamic between Willow and Deacon was undeniably sweet. Deacon’s steady, supportive presence was probably my favorite part of the book. He encourages her without pushing, protects without smothering, and helps her step out of her comfort zone in ways that feel genuinely caring rather than performative. 🫶🏼🫶🏼 Their moments together range from tender to steamy. And Willow’s emotions growth was satisfying to watch unfold. By the end, she’s more confident, more self-assured, and finally choosing herself (which honestly might’ve been the strongest takeaway for me).
One thing I did wish had been explored more was Willow’s body representation. From the cover and a few scattered mentions, it’s clear she’s meant to be curvy, but it stays very surface-level. There was so much opportunity to weave that into her self-image, her confidence journey, and even her romantic experiences, and it felt like a missed chance to add depth to her character which made me a little disappointed. 😔
Overall, this was a genuinely cute and easy read. Perfect if you want something comforting, romantic, and low-stress. It’s not extraordinary, but it’s not forgettable in a bad way either. Just one of those books you enjoy in the moment and move on from with a small smile. I’d recommend it if you’re in the mood for something sweet and simple… just don’t go in expecting fireworks.
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
"You're one of my people."
He squeezed his fingers with mine. "And I take care of
my people."
“I’d never fully understood the expression of melting into a kiss. I'd read it hundreds of times in romance novels, but I'd never felt it until I sank against him, losing track of where his body ended and mine began.”
“She was beautiful, like the kind of beautiful that made my heart rate speed up in her presence.”
“Willow had become like oxygen to me,”
"When I tell you that you're beautiful, it's not because I'm just realizing it. It's because it bears repeating."
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
🐕 age gap (10 years)
🐕 brother’s best friend
🐕 second chances
🐕 friends → lovers
🐕 self discovery
🐕 dual POV
A huge thank you to Netgalley, Berkley Publishing Group, and Denise Williams for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
spice rating:【 🔥🔥🔥 】
swearing: yes
⸻⸻⸻
・❥・⁀➷ pre-read
cutie cover 🐶 can’t wait for this! i have a feeling the fmc is going to rediscover some confidence so i’m so excited for that🤞🏼
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.25 stars
First, I’d like to say, I love Denise Williams' writing. I think she’s a strong writer, and based on the cover, I was excited to read this book. For some reason, it took me weeks to get through this. I just never connected/couldn’t get into it. I never felt that spark between Willow and Deacon, though I enjoyed them both as individual characters. It’s one of those stories I can’t tell if it’s a me thing or if it’s the book, but it was just an okay read for me.
First, I’d like to say, I love Denise Williams' writing. I think she’s a strong writer, and based on the cover, I was excited to read this book. For some reason, it took me weeks to get through this. I just never connected/couldn’t get into it. I never felt that spark between Willow and Deacon, though I enjoyed them both as individual characters. It’s one of those stories I can’t tell if it’s a me thing or if it’s the book, but it was just an okay read for me.
October 5, 2025
2.6 ˖⁺‧✮
I just couldn’t get into this book and how it was written…
The whole idea was veryyy promising and interesting. The girl became a meme on the internet and now she wants to restart her life. Her brother’s best friend is like right there, so they start this whole re-do list.
The first chapters were so fun. I truly liked them and was curious about the rest, however, by 60% I lost all of the interest.
✮ Characters had 0 chemistry. I couldn’t feel anything between them. It mostly seemed like a freshman high schooler had a crush on a senior. The dynamic felt really wrong. Also, they didn’t seem to have anything in common or anything to talk about outside of sex or re-do list. I felt like Willow wanted Deacon just because he was there… she’s only been with one person before and wanted to experiment, so of course she’s go for an experiment guy.
✮ The whole meme thing just disappeared out of nowhere. I don’t understand how Willow was so upset with the whole situation becoming public but out of nowhere she just forgot about it. She’s never even mentioned it again.
✮ Brother situation at 80% was so weirdly written. I still don’t understand the purpose of it?
From a positive perspective, I really like Willow and her story of starting over. Her list was a great idea but choosing Deacon was definitely a mistake
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for an arc.
I just couldn’t get into this book and how it was written…
The whole idea was veryyy promising and interesting. The girl became a meme on the internet and now she wants to restart her life. Her brother’s best friend is like right there, so they start this whole re-do list.
The first chapters were so fun. I truly liked them and was curious about the rest, however, by 60% I lost all of the interest.
✮ Characters had 0 chemistry. I couldn’t feel anything between them. It mostly seemed like a freshman high schooler had a crush on a senior. The dynamic felt really wrong. Also, they didn’t seem to have anything in common or anything to talk about outside of sex or re-do list. I felt like Willow wanted Deacon just because he was there… she’s only been with one person before and wanted to experiment, so of course she’s go for an experiment guy.
✮ The whole meme thing just disappeared out of nowhere. I don’t understand how Willow was so upset with the whole situation becoming public but out of nowhere she just forgot about it. She’s never even mentioned it again.
✮ Brother situation at 80% was so weirdly written. I still don’t understand the purpose of it?
From a positive perspective, I really like Willow and her story of starting over. Her list was a great idea but choosing Deacon was definitely a mistake
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for an arc.
September 14, 2025
I would have loved to know beforehand that this one really leans into the US military brotherhood saviorism stuff, which the blurb doesn't really get into.
Age gap romance between brother's best friend and best friend's little sister, she's dealing with a breakup that turned into a viral meme. What's better than ending a decade long relationship by jumping into another one!!
Elements of this were fun. There's some great phone sex scenes, the MMC is a playboy who unintentionally stops going on dates/hookups with the literal hoards of women lusting over him (he seriously needs a burner phone just to keep up with the influx of horny texts he gets hourly.) Lots of lusting over each other, FMC finding new friends in Iowa.
Technically there's a dog, but he really shows up to be a plot device wump wump wump. Emotionally available MMC's are refreshing to see, that dude can out talk anyone. I'm not sure if he's a golden retriever or himbo MMC, or both honestly. Fucking social butterfly.
However, overall this one was not working for me. I would have loved to see Willow spend time not in romantic relationships and actually get time knowing herself and understanding her needs. She dated someone started in middle school for 10+ years. Then after a couple months is pining over another guy. Take some time, figure yourself out. The "re-do list" plot point of this was hanging on by a thread, and was truly there just for these two to do a bunch of sexual stuff her repressed-ex wasn't into. Which is fine, but added no tension, plot, chemistry, background, etc to the story.
There's also a lot of internalized ableism and white savior complex happening with the MMC that doesn't really ever get addressed or called out, which was frustrating. Being medically discharged from the military doesn't make you lesser than or a failure. Would have loved to see that more deeply addressed.
I will say, my gay ass wanted to see an entire romance of the MMC and best friend/brother since all of their military flashbacks were so homoerotic and I loved every one lmao. Every flashback was another loaded "he's my brother, I love him so much" that was meant to be platonic, but the vibes were vibing. Give Cruz and Deacon a chance!!
I've read other books from Williams and think this is more of a "it's me, not you" situation.
Arc provided by Netgalley.
Age gap romance between brother's best friend and best friend's little sister, she's dealing with a breakup that turned into a viral meme. What's better than ending a decade long relationship by jumping into another one!!
Elements of this were fun. There's some great phone sex scenes, the MMC is a playboy who unintentionally stops going on dates/hookups with the literal hoards of women lusting over him (he seriously needs a burner phone just to keep up with the influx of horny texts he gets hourly.) Lots of lusting over each other, FMC finding new friends in Iowa.
Technically there's a dog, but he really shows up to be a plot device wump wump wump. Emotionally available MMC's are refreshing to see, that dude can out talk anyone. I'm not sure if he's a golden retriever or himbo MMC, or both honestly. Fucking social butterfly.
However, overall this one was not working for me. I would have loved to see Willow spend time not in romantic relationships and actually get time knowing herself and understanding her needs. She dated someone started in middle school for 10+ years. Then after a couple months is pining over another guy. Take some time, figure yourself out. The "re-do list" plot point of this was hanging on by a thread, and was truly there just for these two to do a bunch of sexual stuff her repressed-ex wasn't into. Which is fine, but added no tension, plot, chemistry, background, etc to the story.
There's also a lot of internalized ableism and white savior complex happening with the MMC that doesn't really ever get addressed or called out, which was frustrating. Being medically discharged from the military doesn't make you lesser than or a failure. Would have loved to see that more deeply addressed.
I will say, my gay ass wanted to see an entire romance of the MMC and best friend/brother since all of their military flashbacks were so homoerotic and I loved every one lmao. Every flashback was another loaded "he's my brother, I love him so much" that was meant to be platonic, but the vibes were vibing. Give Cruz and Deacon a chance!!
I've read other books from Williams and think this is more of a "it's me, not you" situation.
Arc provided by Netgalley.
Read
August 13, 2025You're telling me this has age gap, brother's best friend, "teach me" vibes, reformed player, AND SLOW BURN?! SAY 👏🏼 LESS 👏🏼
September 14, 2025
Title: The Re-Do List
Author: Denise Williams
What to expect:
*Brother’s best friend
*Age gap
*Reformed playboy
Pros:
I enjoyed the way the FMC was not intimidated by the MMC’s past, she knew he was it for her. I also enjoyed the way the MMC was more than willing to help her move through her list, no matter what the activity involved.
Cons:
If you don’t like reading about the MMC being a playboy, then this title might not be for you. It is mentioned in just about every chapter. He lives with them. He interacts with them every day. At one point he shows the FMC his phone where he has five different hookup offers, from five different women, waiting on his reply. Thankfully the MMC never acted on any of the offers!
Safety:
No OW/OM drama, no jealousy, no third act breakup.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review this title.
Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Characters: Willow (FMC) & Deacon (MMC)
Author: Denise Williams
What to expect:
*Brother’s best friend
*Age gap
*Reformed playboy
Pros:
I enjoyed the way the FMC was not intimidated by the MMC’s past, she knew he was it for her. I also enjoyed the way the MMC was more than willing to help her move through her list, no matter what the activity involved.
Cons:
If you don’t like reading about the MMC being a playboy, then this title might not be for you. It is mentioned in just about every chapter. He lives with them. He interacts with them every day. At one point he shows the FMC his phone where he has five different hookup offers, from five different women, waiting on his reply. Thankfully the MMC never acted on any of the offers!
Safety:
No OW/OM drama, no jealousy, no third act breakup.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review this title.
Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Characters: Willow (FMC) & Deacon (MMC)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2026
2.5 stars rounded up to 3
i had such high hopes for this book, but unfortunately it fell very flat for me. i did enjoy the friendships our fmc, willow, made in the town she escaped to after becoming a viral meme. i also thought the premise of the meme was funny and was really hoping for this to feel more empowering after becoming what seemed like, the laughing stock of the world, but instead the results seemed to infantilize willow instead. i found her very immature and it felt like it was trying to come off as cute and quirky to me, but failed to do so. i also found the pacing of this book to be incredibly fast yet so slow at the same time. i think one of the reasons for this was the way the author attempted to create tension between willow and deacon, yet instead read like incredibly awkward moments for me. i really enjoyed willow’s relationship with her brother, cruz, but at the end of the book found it to become quite odd. i also didn’t expect this to lean so heavily into military aspects and i just don’t find that very enjoyable to read about, but that’s personal preference and i just want to make note of it because based off the blurb i did not expect it to be such a giant plot point in this book. this was my first denise williams book, and i am willing to give her books another chance but i do not think that this was the book for me unfortunately.
i had such high hopes for this book, but unfortunately it fell very flat for me. i did enjoy the friendships our fmc, willow, made in the town she escaped to after becoming a viral meme. i also thought the premise of the meme was funny and was really hoping for this to feel more empowering after becoming what seemed like, the laughing stock of the world, but instead the results seemed to infantilize willow instead. i found her very immature and it felt like it was trying to come off as cute and quirky to me, but failed to do so. i also found the pacing of this book to be incredibly fast yet so slow at the same time. i think one of the reasons for this was the way the author attempted to create tension between willow and deacon, yet instead read like incredibly awkward moments for me. i really enjoyed willow’s relationship with her brother, cruz, but at the end of the book found it to become quite odd. i also didn’t expect this to lean so heavily into military aspects and i just don’t find that very enjoyable to read about, but that’s personal preference and i just want to make note of it because based off the blurb i did not expect it to be such a giant plot point in this book. this was my first denise williams book, and i am willing to give her books another chance but i do not think that this was the book for me unfortunately.
December 3, 2025
I read this in two sittings, only putting it down to drive home from work. This is definitely my new favorite Denise Williams book!
Brother’s best friend, age-gap, romance. Willow has only ever been with one guy, and after her break up goes viral she needs a break. Her brother’s best friend is recently out of Air Force due to a spinal tumor, and he’s helping keep an eye on Willow while also adjusting back to civilian life. Oh, and he’s 10 years older than her. With his help, Willow creates a re-do list to help her do things for the first time, again.
I hope her brother gets a book!
Brother’s best friend, age-gap, romance. Willow has only ever been with one guy, and after her break up goes viral she needs a break. Her brother’s best friend is recently out of Air Force due to a spinal tumor, and he’s helping keep an eye on Willow while also adjusting back to civilian life. Oh, and he’s 10 years older than her. With his help, Willow creates a re-do list to help her do things for the first time, again.
I hope her brother gets a book!
November 10, 2025
✨ARC Review: The Re-Do List by Denise Williams✨
📚Romance | 🗓️Release Date: Jan. 27, 2026
Rating: 3.5⭐
Thank you Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the ARC!
This was a fun read. I learned about a few things and it was nice to see how the author took inspiration from her life and applied it to the story. I also loved the idea of Willow redoing things to claim as her own.
I will say, I kind of found Willow insufferable. Even though she says she's independent, I didn't entirely walk away from this book viewing her that way. She did take back her life and there was growth, but I still feel like she redirected her dependency on Spencer to Deacon. I didn't really see a lot of maturity on her end throughout the whole book and I see why Cruz still sees her as so young.
Deacon was an interesting character. I loved seeing how his relationship with Cruz developed because it helped show why he felt so guilty falling for Willow. It was also super cute seeing him interact with Jayden and I wish we got see more. He was also sort of insufferable because of his persistence of wanting to get back to how things were before and blocking out help.
I think my favorite character is Cruz. He was giving big brother and best friend in the best possible way. I really loved his relationship dynamics with both Willow and Deacon. He didn't always handle things in the greatest way, but he had the best intentions in mind. Also, him FINALLY OPENING UP TO DEACON was absolutely adorable and I loved seeing the start of their relationship form.
Overall, this was a fun, quick read. I loved the addition of Cupcake and Gus; They were pretty cute. I kind of hated how she was redoing everything involving Spencer and I was glad when Deacon changed the park location because it was becoming really obsessive. That being said, I had a good number of laughs and this book made me feel a lot of things. This was a cute story and I enjoyed it. As always, I can't wait to read the next one!
📚Romance | 🗓️Release Date: Jan. 27, 2026
Rating: 3.5⭐
Thank you Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the ARC!
This was a fun read. I learned about a few things and it was nice to see how the author took inspiration from her life and applied it to the story. I also loved the idea of Willow redoing things to claim as her own.
I will say, I kind of found Willow insufferable. Even though she says she's independent, I didn't entirely walk away from this book viewing her that way. She did take back her life and there was growth, but I still feel like she redirected her dependency on Spencer to Deacon. I didn't really see a lot of maturity on her end throughout the whole book and I see why Cruz still sees her as so young.
Deacon was an interesting character. I loved seeing how his relationship with Cruz developed because it helped show why he felt so guilty falling for Willow. It was also super cute seeing him interact with Jayden and I wish we got see more. He was also sort of insufferable because of his persistence of wanting to get back to how things were before and blocking out help.
I think my favorite character is Cruz. He was giving big brother and best friend in the best possible way. I really loved his relationship dynamics with both Willow and Deacon. He didn't always handle things in the greatest way, but he had the best intentions in mind. Also, him FINALLY OPENING UP TO DEACON was absolutely adorable and I loved seeing the start of their relationship form.
Overall, this was a fun, quick read. I loved the addition of Cupcake and Gus; They were pretty cute. I kind of hated how she was redoing everything involving Spencer and I was glad when Deacon changed the park location because it was becoming really obsessive. That being said, I had a good number of laughs and this book made me feel a lot of things. This was a cute story and I enjoyed it. As always, I can't wait to read the next one!
October 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.75 stars)
This was such a feel-good, easy-flowing read that kept a smile on my face from start to finish. Denise Williams has this magic touch — she knows how to blend humor, heart, and just the right amount of steam without ever losing the warmth that makes her stories special.
I absolutely loved Deacon. He was the definition of a safe hero — gentle, funny, and confident without being overbearing. The way he instantly put Willow at ease made their chemistry feel natural and genuine. And yes, the dogs completely stole my heart. 🐾
The pacing was great — fast enough to keep me engaged, but still allowed the emotions to land. The friend group added a cozy, communal layer that I really enjoyed, and now I’m hoping for a Cruz story next (Emi? Zoe? 👀).
A sweet, cozy romance that hit all the right notes and pulled me straight out of my reading slump. Sometimes you just need a story that feels like a hug — and this one did exactly that.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This was such a feel-good, easy-flowing read that kept a smile on my face from start to finish. Denise Williams has this magic touch — she knows how to blend humor, heart, and just the right amount of steam without ever losing the warmth that makes her stories special.
I absolutely loved Deacon. He was the definition of a safe hero — gentle, funny, and confident without being overbearing. The way he instantly put Willow at ease made their chemistry feel natural and genuine. And yes, the dogs completely stole my heart. 🐾
The pacing was great — fast enough to keep me engaged, but still allowed the emotions to land. The friend group added a cozy, communal layer that I really enjoyed, and now I’m hoping for a Cruz story next (Emi? Zoe? 👀).
A sweet, cozy romance that hit all the right notes and pulled me straight out of my reading slump. Sometimes you just need a story that feels like a hug — and this one did exactly that.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 28, 2025
Willow’s 10 year relationship ended in the most dramatic way. And the video has gone viral. Deacon has been discharged from the marines due to an injury. He is focused on healing and returning to the job he loves, even though he’s been told it probably can’t happen.
When Willow’s brother and Deacon’s best friend, Cruz, deploys, he connects the two so they have a support system. But he makes it clear they should only be friends…
Things I loved:
❤️ The main characters were incredibly likable with fantastic banter.
🐶 There weren’t just human main characters, but dogs too!
🏠 The vibes of community and chosen family were strong.
Things I liked:
🪷 The FMC’s journey of self discovery post breakup was interesting (though I would have loved it even more if so many parts of her journey didn’t have a man’s role centered as part of that growth)
🎬 The ending was predictable but gave all the feels.
Thank you to NetGalley for this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
When Willow’s brother and Deacon’s best friend, Cruz, deploys, he connects the two so they have a support system. But he makes it clear they should only be friends…
Things I loved:
❤️ The main characters were incredibly likable with fantastic banter.
🐶 There weren’t just human main characters, but dogs too!
🏠 The vibes of community and chosen family were strong.
Things I liked:
🪷 The FMC’s journey of self discovery post breakup was interesting (though I would have loved it even more if so many parts of her journey didn’t have a man’s role centered as part of that growth)
🎬 The ending was predictable but gave all the feels.
Thank you to NetGalley for this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 28, 2025
Brother’s best friend (read as: reformed playboy) falls in love with the forbidden sister. 🤤
Willow is recovering from the fallout from a breakup with her only boyfriend AND the meme that was made from her heartbreak. Going to stay at her brother’s is just the escape she needs to a re-do of her life so far. Her brother, a military man, can’t leave his baby sister alone though, so he sends his best friend Deacon in to take care of her while Cruz is on deployment.
There was a lot to enjoy about this romance and this story but it ultimately felt like it was missing something crucial for me to fully appreciate what it could be.
I loved the characters individually but it was hard to believe the chemistry between Deacon and Willow at times. Her innocence and lack of experience was endearing but it also read as juvenile at times when it came to their romantic connection.
Deacons story coming out of the military was one i wasn’t expecting and I ended up becoming quite invested. But i felt that his storyline wasn’t resolved by the time the last page came around.
The pacing and the premise kept this story moving forward and i ultimately couldn’t put it down. I also LOVED the representation and the side characters and i hope we get a story for Cruz next!
Willow is recovering from the fallout from a breakup with her only boyfriend AND the meme that was made from her heartbreak. Going to stay at her brother’s is just the escape she needs to a re-do of her life so far. Her brother, a military man, can’t leave his baby sister alone though, so he sends his best friend Deacon in to take care of her while Cruz is on deployment.
There was a lot to enjoy about this romance and this story but it ultimately felt like it was missing something crucial for me to fully appreciate what it could be.
I loved the characters individually but it was hard to believe the chemistry between Deacon and Willow at times. Her innocence and lack of experience was endearing but it also read as juvenile at times when it came to their romantic connection.
Deacons story coming out of the military was one i wasn’t expecting and I ended up becoming quite invested. But i felt that his storyline wasn’t resolved by the time the last page came around.
The pacing and the premise kept this story moving forward and i ultimately couldn’t put it down. I also LOVED the representation and the side characters and i hope we get a story for Cruz next!
December 26, 2025
This book began so strongly! Willow’s worst moment to date went viral when someone filmed her reaction to her long term boyfriend breaking up with her, so at her deployed brother’s request, she agrees to house and dog sit for him for a few months. At his insistence she’s also put in contact with his best friend and former battalion mate Deacon. Willow and Deacon hit it off famously, and while they’re initially able to resist any extracurricular activities, it isn’t long before they’re burning up the sheets in ways Willow’s former partner never dreamed.
With all these elements it should’ve been a slam dunk, but between Willow’s insecurities, Deacon’s too good to be true about face from manwhOre to one woman man, and big brother Cruz’s wildly misogynistic and uncomfortable obsession with his sister’s “virtue”, it brought it down to about threee and a half stars for me, rounded up to four.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and NetGalley, and I’m sharing my honest review.
With all these elements it should’ve been a slam dunk, but between Willow’s insecurities, Deacon’s too good to be true about face from manwhOre to one woman man, and big brother Cruz’s wildly misogynistic and uncomfortable obsession with his sister’s “virtue”, it brought it down to about threee and a half stars for me, rounded up to four.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and NetGalley, and I’m sharing my honest review.
September 23, 2025
I was really charmed by this by the end. I always enjoy Denise Williams' writing and love to see whatever she comes up with next. I love how light and sexy her stories are, the feel I get from Hallmark movies but with steam. Very minimal conflict but they're not without depth. I wouldn't mind more from the characters in this group!
At the beginning I wasn't sure how I felt about this one. Our Heroine felt painfully 24 for a while and it made me sad how she saw herself. Maybe it's because I'm so far past 24 and older than both characters that I kept thinking "Baby girl, you're so young! There's so much life ahead of you! So many things to experience!". I did love seeing her confidence grow throughout and how she made decisions for herself based on what she wanted. I would have liked to see more of her doing things on her own and making new friends that weren't also Deacon's friends. I found Deacon really soft and sweet in a quintessential Book Boyfriend way. He was kind, helpful, open, honest, and naturally had superhuman good looks - golden retriever-esque. A delight to read and I wouldn't mind getting more of him. The characters are still dealing with very real things but the story is never weighed down by it. It's not a story about grief but it's still part of her life, it's not a story about his injury but it is something he has to manage every day.
**This book was provided free from the publisher through NetGalley
At the beginning I wasn't sure how I felt about this one. Our Heroine felt painfully 24 for a while and it made me sad how she saw herself. Maybe it's because I'm so far past 24 and older than both characters that I kept thinking "Baby girl, you're so young! There's so much life ahead of you! So many things to experience!". I did love seeing her confidence grow throughout and how she made decisions for herself based on what she wanted. I would have liked to see more of her doing things on her own and making new friends that weren't also Deacon's friends. I found Deacon really soft and sweet in a quintessential Book Boyfriend way. He was kind, helpful, open, honest, and naturally had superhuman good looks - golden retriever-esque. A delight to read and I wouldn't mind getting more of him. The characters are still dealing with very real things but the story is never weighed down by it. It's not a story about grief but it's still part of her life, it's not a story about his injury but it is something he has to manage every day.
**This book was provided free from the publisher through NetGalley
October 3, 2025
Willow is ready for second chances - a lot of them. And her brother's best friend Deacon is ready to make her second chances happen via her re-do list. This was just a delight of a read - It's definitely got some spice as Willow gets another chance at many of her firsts. The connection and feelings between Willow and Deacon are just so, so great as their relationship develops. They were a couple who I was rooting for hard as different things came their way. It's a slow burn, but also a quick read. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the look at this January 2026 release!
October 22, 2025
ARC Review thanks to Net Galley
Willow is looking to start over after a humiliating break up from her ex boyfriend, making her a meme.
She had all her firsts with her ex and she is looking to re do them all and make new memories and really finding herself.
Then Deacon comes along. He is to look out for Willow per Cruz, Willows brother but they have other plans.. eventually.
Willow is looking to start over after a humiliating break up from her ex boyfriend, making her a meme.
She had all her firsts with her ex and she is looking to re do them all and make new memories and really finding herself.
Then Deacon comes along. He is to look out for Willow per Cruz, Willows brother but they have other plans.. eventually.
September 30, 2025
I really enjoyed The Re-Do List! A slow burn romance between Willow and her brother’s best friend. I should clarify… slow burn… but super spicy by the end.
The characters had humor and warmth, like all of her other books. Loved seeing characters from her previous book, Just Our Luck, and loved all the Iowa references since that’s where I’m from.
Thanks to Berkley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for The Re-Do List to come out January 27, 2026.
The characters had humor and warmth, like all of her other books. Loved seeing characters from her previous book, Just Our Luck, and loved all the Iowa references since that’s where I’m from.
Thanks to Berkley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for The Re-Do List to come out January 27, 2026.
November 6, 2025
ARC REVIEW - Fun, light and intriguing. I really liked the idea of a re do list! I liked Willow and Deacon and the brothers best friend trope is always a good time. I really also enjoyed the chemistry between them. I do think the book was much longer than it needed to be, it took away from the story for me. Other than that I really did like the overall plot and writing.
2.5 stars!
2.5 stars!
October 6, 2025
DENISE YOU HAVE DONE IT AGAIN!!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I stayed up until 12:30am to finish this book ❤️
——
After an embarrassing breakup and becoming a viral meme, Willow has decided to start over. What better way to do that than to take some time away from Colorado and housesit for her brother while he’s away on duty?
When Deacon is overcoming a spinal injury due to a tumor and trying to get used to civilian life again, his best friend Cruz asks for him to keep an eye on his little sister while she’s housesitting.
One drunken night and a two page re-do list later, Willow is on a mission to reclaim her life and start over ❤️
The chemistry between these two was amazing. I was smiling and giggling with their flirty banter. Denise Williams always does a great job making FMCs who are like normal people but without making them boring. As for Deacon Rakes, HES THE NEW BOOK BOYFRIEND.
In my head, Deacon is David Corenswet; he’s flirtatious, funny, protective, and knows how to PLEASE!
This story was very sweet and comforting for anyone who is starting over and getting over a breakup.
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing for this ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I stayed up until 12:30am to finish this book ❤️
——
After an embarrassing breakup and becoming a viral meme, Willow has decided to start over. What better way to do that than to take some time away from Colorado and housesit for her brother while he’s away on duty?
When Deacon is overcoming a spinal injury due to a tumor and trying to get used to civilian life again, his best friend Cruz asks for him to keep an eye on his little sister while she’s housesitting.
One drunken night and a two page re-do list later, Willow is on a mission to reclaim her life and start over ❤️
The chemistry between these two was amazing. I was smiling and giggling with their flirty banter. Denise Williams always does a great job making FMCs who are like normal people but without making them boring. As for Deacon Rakes, HES THE NEW BOOK BOYFRIEND.
In my head, Deacon is David Corenswet; he’s flirtatious, funny, protective, and knows how to PLEASE!
This story was very sweet and comforting for anyone who is starting over and getting over a breakup.
Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing for this ARC!
November 12, 2025
With the cute dog on the cover, how could I not want to read this book?
Unfortunately, even with the cute dog in the book, it was a miss for me for several reasons.
Willow was really naive and immature. I'm not sure why the author chose to make her that way. Maybe because it sets up the premise of the book better? Just because you've been in the same relationship since your teens, it doesn't mean you stop maturing and are a teenager mentally.
Deacon was too good to be true from the start. I don't know, I like my MMCs to be the dream book boyfriend, but I also thought he was too eager to jump into everything.
Willow and Deacon lacked chemistry. It was more a telling me about the heat between them instead of showing me. It felt very forced.
I love Denise Williams and I will read anything she writes. I wanted to enjoy this one but I couldn't.
I received a complimentary eARC from the publisher.
Unfortunately, even with the cute dog in the book, it was a miss for me for several reasons.
Willow was really naive and immature. I'm not sure why the author chose to make her that way. Maybe because it sets up the premise of the book better? Just because you've been in the same relationship since your teens, it doesn't mean you stop maturing and are a teenager mentally.
Deacon was too good to be true from the start. I don't know, I like my MMCs to be the dream book boyfriend, but I also thought he was too eager to jump into everything.
Willow and Deacon lacked chemistry. It was more a telling me about the heat between them instead of showing me. It felt very forced.
I love Denise Williams and I will read anything she writes. I wanted to enjoy this one but I couldn't.
I received a complimentary eARC from the publisher.
November 11, 2025
personally didn’t really connect with the characters or their relationship. I feel like the premise and plot was there but I wasn’t overly invested. Deacon felt so out of touch to me and had the emotional capacity of a 25 year old not the 35 year old that he is. Willow’s character growth felt very unnatural and she just completely forgot about the meme video-which made me forget about the meme video. This really gave relationship of convenience and I don’t think it ever became very authentic. This was an okay read for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing House for the arc.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing House for the arc.
September 13, 2025
Every once in a while, I pick up a book by an author I’ve never read before and immediately know I’ve found a new favorite, and The Re-Do List by Denise Williams was exactly that moment. This book is everything I love in a romance: slow burn tension, the brother’s best friend forbidden edge, a reformed player, and an FMC figuring out who she is after heartbreak. Add in the teach me vibes of a re-do list, and I was grinning, giggling, and kicking my feet through every page.
Willow is such a relatable FMC. After a humiliating breakup that went viral (yes, VIRAL; this aspect was equal parts hilarious but heartbreaking for her, because could you imagine?), she escapes to Iowa to dog sit for her brother. Enter Deacon, her brother’s best friend and the man sworn to both look after her and stay away from her. Easy, right? Not when Willow has a list of firsts she wants to redo, and Deacon is the only one she trusts to help her. The setup was really intriguing because I love any book where the FMC needs help from the MMC and he is down bad enough to do it without hesitation, and I loved how naturally their connection grew from friendship to something more.
The romance was perfect too because this is slow burn done right, the kind that kept me on edge, full of yearning, until I literally couldn’t stand it anymore. Their banter is playful, their chemistry undeniable, and when the walls finally come down… let’s just say I was glued to the page! It’s sexy, but also deeply sweet with the kind of intimacy that feels earned and meaningful. I really rooted for them because their connection was just so solid and built on a slow burn that was so rewarding when they finally acknowledged their real feelings and realized that it was no longer just about the list.
What I appreciated most is how Denise Williams balanced the heat and humor with heart. Both Willow and Deacon are carrying their own insecurities and baggage, and watching them support each other through those vulnerabilities made their romance all the more satisfying. It’s not just about checking things off a list, but it’s about building confidence, learning to risk again, and daring to fall in love. It felt so gratifying to see Willow go from so heartbroken and thinking her life was over to so happy and finding someone who showed her time and time again that she was worth it.
If you want a romance with plenty of laughs, sweetness, spice, and one of the most satisfying slow burns I’ve read in a while, The Re-Do List delivers. Denise Williams is now an auto read author for me!
Thank you to NetGalley, Denise Williams, and Berkley for the eARC of this book.
Willow is such a relatable FMC. After a humiliating breakup that went viral (yes, VIRAL; this aspect was equal parts hilarious but heartbreaking for her, because could you imagine?), she escapes to Iowa to dog sit for her brother. Enter Deacon, her brother’s best friend and the man sworn to both look after her and stay away from her. Easy, right? Not when Willow has a list of firsts she wants to redo, and Deacon is the only one she trusts to help her. The setup was really intriguing because I love any book where the FMC needs help from the MMC and he is down bad enough to do it without hesitation, and I loved how naturally their connection grew from friendship to something more.
The romance was perfect too because this is slow burn done right, the kind that kept me on edge, full of yearning, until I literally couldn’t stand it anymore. Their banter is playful, their chemistry undeniable, and when the walls finally come down… let’s just say I was glued to the page! It’s sexy, but also deeply sweet with the kind of intimacy that feels earned and meaningful. I really rooted for them because their connection was just so solid and built on a slow burn that was so rewarding when they finally acknowledged their real feelings and realized that it was no longer just about the list.
What I appreciated most is how Denise Williams balanced the heat and humor with heart. Both Willow and Deacon are carrying their own insecurities and baggage, and watching them support each other through those vulnerabilities made their romance all the more satisfying. It’s not just about checking things off a list, but it’s about building confidence, learning to risk again, and daring to fall in love. It felt so gratifying to see Willow go from so heartbroken and thinking her life was over to so happy and finding someone who showed her time and time again that she was worth it.
If you want a romance with plenty of laughs, sweetness, spice, and one of the most satisfying slow burns I’ve read in a while, The Re-Do List delivers. Denise Williams is now an auto read author for me!
Thank you to NetGalley, Denise Williams, and Berkley for the eARC of this book.
December 19, 2025
5 ⭐️
Tropes: forbidden romance, brothers best friend, age gap romance, slow burn, dual POV, coaching romance, forced proximity
“I’d been dumped and left alone, single for the first time since the eighth grade.”
“We’re making a list of firsts I want to re-do without him.” - My attempt at reinventing myself”
This has earned a spot in my top five favorite reads of the year! 😍 I’m obsessed with EVERYTHING about this; from the characters, the chemistry, the yearning, the banter, and the character development - it was all so incredibly perfect! This was my first Denise Williams book and her writing and characters were addicting. I picked this up every chance I got and when I couldn’t I was thinking about it 🤩 Mark your calendars for January 27, 2026! 📅
Willow was in a long term relationship since middle school but she was dumped very publicly (her break up was recorded, posted and went viral!) and now she’s left to put herself together and learn who she is without her ex. Except with a history like that, everything in her life is pretty much tainted by her ex so she makes a plan, a plan that includes a to-do list of re-dos she wants a second chance at experiencing. With that plan she sets on to rediscover who she is and I adored her character development. Deacon is Willows brothers best friend… he had ONE job while her brother was deployed; “take care of my little sister AND at the same time stay away from her” - but as he makes good on his promise to his best friend he is witness (and assistance) to Willow getting her spark back. What started off as a friendship and support turned into so much more and became something neither of them was expecting.
“He helped me see I was still somebody, even when I was alone.”
“He was wrong. It wasn’t nothing. This felt like everything.”
Just writing this I’m getting jealous of others reading this for the first time. Deacon and Willow will forever have my heart! 💖
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkeley Publishing Group for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes: forbidden romance, brothers best friend, age gap romance, slow burn, dual POV, coaching romance, forced proximity
“I’d been dumped and left alone, single for the first time since the eighth grade.”
“We’re making a list of firsts I want to re-do without him.” - My attempt at reinventing myself”
This has earned a spot in my top five favorite reads of the year! 😍 I’m obsessed with EVERYTHING about this; from the characters, the chemistry, the yearning, the banter, and the character development - it was all so incredibly perfect! This was my first Denise Williams book and her writing and characters were addicting. I picked this up every chance I got and when I couldn’t I was thinking about it 🤩 Mark your calendars for January 27, 2026! 📅
Willow was in a long term relationship since middle school but she was dumped very publicly (her break up was recorded, posted and went viral!) and now she’s left to put herself together and learn who she is without her ex. Except with a history like that, everything in her life is pretty much tainted by her ex so she makes a plan, a plan that includes a to-do list of re-dos she wants a second chance at experiencing. With that plan she sets on to rediscover who she is and I adored her character development. Deacon is Willows brothers best friend… he had ONE job while her brother was deployed; “take care of my little sister AND at the same time stay away from her” - but as he makes good on his promise to his best friend he is witness (and assistance) to Willow getting her spark back. What started off as a friendship and support turned into so much more and became something neither of them was expecting.
“He helped me see I was still somebody, even when I was alone.”
“He was wrong. It wasn’t nothing. This felt like everything.”
Just writing this I’m getting jealous of others reading this for the first time. Deacon and Willow will forever have my heart! 💖
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkeley Publishing Group for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🌼 A re-do isn’t about fixing the past...It’s about rewriting the future 📝
“The Re-Do List” begins with a spark that feels like it might become something insanely delicious. Willow Lewis arrives in small-town Iowa hoping for a little peace after her very public breakup leaves her confidence shaken and her life scattered. She expects a house to herself, a sweet dog to watch over, and a little room to breathe. What she doesn’t expect is Deacon Wright; her brother’s best friend who is all steady edges, quiet magnetism, and very determined to keep his distance.
Her 're-do list' becomes its own kind of flirtation: a collection of small, daring do-overs that brings her confidence back. Each slow-burn moment with Deacon brings her a little closer to something neither of them can ignore. Their chemistry is slow-burn perfection: glances that linger a little too long, late-night porch conversations, and that sweet ache of wanting someone who feels both comforting and complicated.
Denise Williams crafts a story filled with heart, humor, and emotional honesty. Willow is bright and messy and wonderfully human. She is the kind of heroine who grows not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who she always was. Deacon, meanwhile, is disciplined almost to a fault, but his vulnerability and steadiness give their romance such a grounding warmth. Together, they build something that feels real and earned.
The small-town atmosphere adds charm without ever feeling saccharine, and the supporting characters (including the world’s most loveable furry companion) round out the story beautifully. A few emotional beats breeze by quickly, but the heart of the book lands exactly where it should: in the space where reinvention and romance meet.
“The Re-Do List” is a story about second chances, slow-burn connection, and learning that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is decide to begin again...
✨ Thank you to author Denise Williams, Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the early copy!
“The Re-Do List” begins with a spark that feels like it might become something insanely delicious. Willow Lewis arrives in small-town Iowa hoping for a little peace after her very public breakup leaves her confidence shaken and her life scattered. She expects a house to herself, a sweet dog to watch over, and a little room to breathe. What she doesn’t expect is Deacon Wright; her brother’s best friend who is all steady edges, quiet magnetism, and very determined to keep his distance.
Her 're-do list' becomes its own kind of flirtation: a collection of small, daring do-overs that brings her confidence back. Each slow-burn moment with Deacon brings her a little closer to something neither of them can ignore. Their chemistry is slow-burn perfection: glances that linger a little too long, late-night porch conversations, and that sweet ache of wanting someone who feels both comforting and complicated.
Denise Williams crafts a story filled with heart, humor, and emotional honesty. Willow is bright and messy and wonderfully human. She is the kind of heroine who grows not by becoming someone new, but by remembering who she always was. Deacon, meanwhile, is disciplined almost to a fault, but his vulnerability and steadiness give their romance such a grounding warmth. Together, they build something that feels real and earned.
The small-town atmosphere adds charm without ever feeling saccharine, and the supporting characters (including the world’s most loveable furry companion) round out the story beautifully. A few emotional beats breeze by quickly, but the heart of the book lands exactly where it should: in the space where reinvention and romance meet.
“The Re-Do List” is a story about second chances, slow-burn connection, and learning that sometimes the bravest thing you can do is decide to begin again...
✨ Thank you to author Denise Williams, Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the early copy!
December 3, 2025
I received an ARC from Berkley Publishing, and this is my honest review.
I adore everything Denise Williams writes, so I went into The Re-Do List already excited, and this one did not disappoint. We meet Willow when she goes to dog sit for her brother Cruz while he’s deployed. That’s where she meets Deacon, Cruz’s best friend from the military who has been medically discharged. Cruz has very clear wishes about them not getting involved…which, lets be honest, only ever goes one way in romance. And I loved watching it unfold.
The whole concept of Willow’s “re-do list” really worked for me. It had that fun, slightly spicy “sexy bucket list” energy while still being rooted in her healing after her breakup with Spencer. I’ll admit, part of me wished she had created a list that was fully her own instead of redoing moments tied to her ex. But I also get it, the whole point is the redo, so it kind of has to be that way. Either way, it made for a fun plot device.
Willow and Deacon’s chemistry and relationship is full of the slow-burn goodness, unfold intentionally instead of rushing it. I especially appreciated the glimpses into Deacon’s military background and the weight he’s carrying after his discharge. A deeper exploration would’ve been interesting, but I also understand why it didn’t go too far into heavy territory — that balance is tricky in a romcom.
And speaking of romcom… Denise is so good at writing those genuinely funny, slightly chaotic moments that make me laugh out loud. I always love how her characters find themselves in these awkward, sweet, ridiculous situations that feel so human. Plus, there are dogs. You give me a romance with dogs and I’m already halfway in love with it.
Overall, The Re-Do List is warm, funny, a little bit sexy, and full of heart. Another win from Denise Williams, and honestly, I’ll happily read anything she writes.
I adore everything Denise Williams writes, so I went into The Re-Do List already excited, and this one did not disappoint. We meet Willow when she goes to dog sit for her brother Cruz while he’s deployed. That’s where she meets Deacon, Cruz’s best friend from the military who has been medically discharged. Cruz has very clear wishes about them not getting involved…which, lets be honest, only ever goes one way in romance. And I loved watching it unfold.
The whole concept of Willow’s “re-do list” really worked for me. It had that fun, slightly spicy “sexy bucket list” energy while still being rooted in her healing after her breakup with Spencer. I’ll admit, part of me wished she had created a list that was fully her own instead of redoing moments tied to her ex. But I also get it, the whole point is the redo, so it kind of has to be that way. Either way, it made for a fun plot device.
Willow and Deacon’s chemistry and relationship is full of the slow-burn goodness, unfold intentionally instead of rushing it. I especially appreciated the glimpses into Deacon’s military background and the weight he’s carrying after his discharge. A deeper exploration would’ve been interesting, but I also understand why it didn’t go too far into heavy territory — that balance is tricky in a romcom.
And speaking of romcom… Denise is so good at writing those genuinely funny, slightly chaotic moments that make me laugh out loud. I always love how her characters find themselves in these awkward, sweet, ridiculous situations that feel so human. Plus, there are dogs. You give me a romance with dogs and I’m already halfway in love with it.
Overall, The Re-Do List is warm, funny, a little bit sexy, and full of heart. Another win from Denise Williams, and honestly, I’ll happily read anything she writes.
January 4, 2026
I loved the idea of redoing some of your favourite moments or reconceptualising painful moments to create new cherished ones. Growing up, I was a bit of a sheltered and anxious child, so I didn't do a lot of those typical teenage moments. I like the idea that just because you didn't get those experiences when(or with whom) you wanted, it doesn't mean you still can't make them happen later.
Willow was a likeable heroine. She comes off a bit naive and complicit in her life, in the beginning, but I think that was on purpose to see her grow as a person. She lost her mom young and kind of stayed in this comfortable bubble with her high school boyfriend, letting him make the more difficult decisions of their life together. It was so cute seeing her take back control of her life and make the decisions that were only hers to make. Deacon was such a great hero. I liked that he was so motivated to get back on his feet after an injury and his conflict with going back into service and having to come to terms that maybe his goal was going to have to change. He was always up to help Willow complete her list and even make them better than she anticipated.
My only complaint is that sometimes I was a bit bored. Maybe it was slightly repetitive? We saw Deacon and Willow redoing all her firsts and being all cute and lovey, which was nice, but it was like "Ok...now what?" I wish we had gotten to the final conflict and resolution a little quicker. I also felt the meme thing, in the beginning, wasn't necessary or needed a more fleshed-out path. It disappeared really quickly. Instead, I think it would have been better if she needed to get away from Colorado because everything reminded her of their relationship or something. The viral moment on the internet felt forced, considering we didn't actually see the breakup in the book. We just saw comments on the video.
Read if you like a brother's best friend forbidden romance with a bit of an age gap. Thanks to the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review. This book releases 1/27
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Willow was a likeable heroine. She comes off a bit naive and complicit in her life, in the beginning, but I think that was on purpose to see her grow as a person. She lost her mom young and kind of stayed in this comfortable bubble with her high school boyfriend, letting him make the more difficult decisions of their life together. It was so cute seeing her take back control of her life and make the decisions that were only hers to make. Deacon was such a great hero. I liked that he was so motivated to get back on his feet after an injury and his conflict with going back into service and having to come to terms that maybe his goal was going to have to change. He was always up to help Willow complete her list and even make them better than she anticipated.
My only complaint is that sometimes I was a bit bored. Maybe it was slightly repetitive? We saw Deacon and Willow redoing all her firsts and being all cute and lovey, which was nice, but it was like "Ok...now what?" I wish we had gotten to the final conflict and resolution a little quicker. I also felt the meme thing, in the beginning, wasn't necessary or needed a more fleshed-out path. It disappeared really quickly. Instead, I think it would have been better if she needed to get away from Colorado because everything reminded her of their relationship or something. The viral moment on the internet felt forced, considering we didn't actually see the breakup in the book. We just saw comments on the video.
Read if you like a brother's best friend forbidden romance with a bit of an age gap. Thanks to the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review. This book releases 1/27
Like what you hear? Follow me on Tiktok and Instagram
September 14, 2025
Big thanks to NetGalley and Penguin for the ARC!
There's a lot to love here-- the way Willow and Deacon are paired as foils really worked for me, they're two people coming out of intense relationships (Willow from a boring and selfish boyfriend, Deacon from a special paramilitary rescue branch of the U.S. Air Force) who need to learn who they are outside of that. I always appreciate a self-discovery arc, and it was cute to watch two people work towards that together.
There were a couple of other things, specifically with Deacon's character, that just didn't work for me unfortunately. Firstly, the "men in uniform" trope does absolutely nothing for me. Even though he technically doesn't even wear his uniform at any point in the book. Whatever, you get it. I think maybe I've just known and/or been related to too many military men to find their particular brand of masculinity attractive. Secondly I'm just not a big fan of the reformed rake trope either? Again this is just a personal preference thing, but I just wasn't vibing with it. Same thing again with the age gap, it didn't particularly bother me since Willow and Deacon are on pretty even footing, but an age-gap trope doesn't do anything extra for me, so I guess I'm just confused about why it needs to be there.
Other than these two things, though, I really liked Deacon! He was very sweet with Willow, and I liked how honest he was with his feelings throughout, even as he was struggling with his own issues. Similarly, I really liked Willow. Once she was able to figure out exactly what it was she wanted, she wasn't afraid to go after it, a trait I respect and fear in equal measure.
I continue to be a Denise Williams fan-- can't wait for the next book!
There's a lot to love here-- the way Willow and Deacon are paired as foils really worked for me, they're two people coming out of intense relationships (Willow from a boring and selfish boyfriend, Deacon from a special paramilitary rescue branch of the U.S. Air Force) who need to learn who they are outside of that. I always appreciate a self-discovery arc, and it was cute to watch two people work towards that together.
There were a couple of other things, specifically with Deacon's character, that just didn't work for me unfortunately. Firstly, the "men in uniform" trope does absolutely nothing for me. Even though he technically doesn't even wear his uniform at any point in the book. Whatever, you get it. I think maybe I've just known and/or been related to too many military men to find their particular brand of masculinity attractive. Secondly I'm just not a big fan of the reformed rake trope either? Again this is just a personal preference thing, but I just wasn't vibing with it. Same thing again with the age gap, it didn't particularly bother me since Willow and Deacon are on pretty even footing, but an age-gap trope doesn't do anything extra for me, so I guess I'm just confused about why it needs to be there.
Other than these two things, though, I really liked Deacon! He was very sweet with Willow, and I liked how honest he was with his feelings throughout, even as he was struggling with his own issues. Similarly, I really liked Willow. Once she was able to figure out exactly what it was she wanted, she wasn't afraid to go after it, a trait I respect and fear in equal measure.
I continue to be a Denise Williams fan-- can't wait for the next book!
September 27, 2025
*arc review* Denise is an author I read very early on in my reading journey but gradually parted from as time went on. Not intentionally at all! I remember finding her earlier books very witty and fun so when I saw this pop up on NetGalley, I was excited to jump back into her work.
That being said, I wish I knew how heavily this involved the military. If I had known, I don’t think I would have requested it. The description doesn’t really give any inkling of that and I felt a little duped!
While both characters were generally fine, I didn’t really connect with them as individuals or as a couple. The book as a whole struggled to keep my attention and I did nearly DNF around the 70% mark when the military-ness got almost too much for me. I wish we saw more of Willow’s journey as an individual rather than her jumping into a relationship right away. Deacon didn’t really have depth outside of him being a former PJ. And don’t get me started on Cruz- typical ‘protective’ macho older brother who doesn’t want his friend with his sister- predictable annoying drama.
On the bright side, I did enjoy the side characters and what they added to the story. I did not know that this was an interconnected book and some of them have already had their own- I think the epilogue is cuter now that I know that, as it gives insight into where those characters are as well.
Thank you NetGalley, Denise, and Berkley for the arc in exchange for an honest review. This was my first approved arc by Berkley after many attempts and I wish I could have a better review to report, but I am committed to giving my honest thoughts on ARCs. Hopefully there will be a next time 🫶
That being said, I wish I knew how heavily this involved the military. If I had known, I don’t think I would have requested it. The description doesn’t really give any inkling of that and I felt a little duped!
While both characters were generally fine, I didn’t really connect with them as individuals or as a couple. The book as a whole struggled to keep my attention and I did nearly DNF around the 70% mark when the military-ness got almost too much for me. I wish we saw more of Willow’s journey as an individual rather than her jumping into a relationship right away. Deacon didn’t really have depth outside of him being a former PJ. And don’t get me started on Cruz- typical ‘protective’ macho older brother who doesn’t want his friend with his sister- predictable annoying drama.
On the bright side, I did enjoy the side characters and what they added to the story. I did not know that this was an interconnected book and some of them have already had their own- I think the epilogue is cuter now that I know that, as it gives insight into where those characters are as well.
Thank you NetGalley, Denise, and Berkley for the arc in exchange for an honest review. This was my first approved arc by Berkley after many attempts and I wish I could have a better review to report, but I am committed to giving my honest thoughts on ARCs. Hopefully there will be a next time 🫶
December 24, 2025
4.5 Stars Rounded Up! Thank you very much to Berkley Publishing for providing me with an advanced reader copy of The Re-Do List by Denise Williams.
This book is an easy recommendation for romance readers who enjoy age-gap, forbidden love, reformed playboy, and the “brother’s best friend” tropes. The romantic tension between Low and Deac was engaging and well paced, and the re-do list itself was a fun and effective device for building out their relationship. Watching their connection deepen through each item on the list made the romance feel organic.
Beyond the central love story, I especially appreciated the strong sense of community throughout the book. The relationships between the broader cast of characters were just as enjoyable to read, and it was clear how deeply everyone cared about their people. That warmth added a lot of heart to the story and made the world feel lived-in and meaningful.
I also loved the inclusion of the actual to-do list with checkmarks at the start of each chapter. It built intrigue and excitement, encouraged me to keep reading, and contributed nicely to the overall pacing of the novel.
I didn't realize how much of this book would be centered on the military before reading it, and I didn't love that aspect of the story. However, overall, I had a great time reading The Re-Do List and it has earned Denise Williams a new fan. Thank you again for the advanced copy!
Note: While the cover depicts an interracial relationship, this aspect is not explicitly discussed within the text itself. I simply note this as an observation for readers who may come in with expectations based on the cover.
This book is an easy recommendation for romance readers who enjoy age-gap, forbidden love, reformed playboy, and the “brother’s best friend” tropes. The romantic tension between Low and Deac was engaging and well paced, and the re-do list itself was a fun and effective device for building out their relationship. Watching their connection deepen through each item on the list made the romance feel organic.
Beyond the central love story, I especially appreciated the strong sense of community throughout the book. The relationships between the broader cast of characters were just as enjoyable to read, and it was clear how deeply everyone cared about their people. That warmth added a lot of heart to the story and made the world feel lived-in and meaningful.
I also loved the inclusion of the actual to-do list with checkmarks at the start of each chapter. It built intrigue and excitement, encouraged me to keep reading, and contributed nicely to the overall pacing of the novel.
I didn't realize how much of this book would be centered on the military before reading it, and I didn't love that aspect of the story. However, overall, I had a great time reading The Re-Do List and it has earned Denise Williams a new fan. Thank you again for the advanced copy!
Note: While the cover depicts an interracial relationship, this aspect is not explicitly discussed within the text itself. I simply note this as an observation for readers who may come in with expectations based on the cover.
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