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Buffaloberry Hill #1

Wrecked for Love

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Tough men, fearless women, and one little Montana town where falling hard is the only way.

I’ve lived the last two years waiting for the worst.

I never expected help to come from a rancher who acts like he couldn’t care less.

I’m out of gas, out of luck, and on the edge of a storm when he finds me—grumpy, gorgeous, and way too good at fixing things. Including my damn car.

Elia Lucas is supposed to be a one-night escape. A safe place to sleep, a quiet goodbye in the morning.

I’m not supposed to come back.

But something about him—and the small town he calls home—pulls me in deeper than I mean to fall. He’s been hurt before, and I’m carrying more secrets than luggage. But Elia’s the kind of man who makes you want to trust again. The kind who doesn’t run when life turns ugly.

Only, my past is catching up fast. And when it crashes headfirst into the war Elia’s already fighting, we’re both forced to face the

He might be my only shot at a future.

And I might be the one to wreck his.

Wrecked for Love is the swoon-worthy first book in the Buffaloberry Hill small town romance series. If you crave brave love, magnetic connection, and heroes who’d step into the fire for her, then you’ll adore Alessa Kelly’s breathtaking storytelling.

342 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 29, 2025

27 people are currently reading
53 people want to read

About the author

Alessa Kelly

32 books168 followers
Alessa Kelly writes romantic suspense and contemporary romance novels where danger tangles with desire.

When she’s not writing, she’s exploring wild places, snapping photos, or dreaming up her next story. Her books are packed with bold heroines, broody protectors, and a passion that doesn’t know when to quit.

Keep up with Alessa on all platforms:
Newsletter Sign up ➜ https://alessakelly.com
Instagram➜ https://www.instagram.com/akellyauthor
Facebook➜ https://facebook.com/akellyauthor
Pinterest ➜ https://www.pinterest.com.au/akelly2099
BookBub ➜ https://www.bookbub.com/authors/aless...
Twitter➜ https://twitter.com/akellyauthor
Website ➜ https://alessakelly.com

She enjoys the simple things in life, like taking long walks, daydreaming, and bingeing on Nordic noir with cheesy popcorn in hand. She is also a lover of wildlife photography, and will die without a cup of strong, black tea.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for BookAddict.
2,102 reviews210 followers
July 26, 2025
Is there anything better than a new series from a storyteller whose work we’ve come to love and trust? While we're leaving behind our beloved special ops guys, we're moving to cowboy country. There's still plenty of danger and drama, just with a lot more animals.

Elia Lucas meets Claire when her car breaks down on his farm. He gives her food and shelter, and what was supposed to be one night turns into more when Claire decides she's tired of running. She rents a cottage in Buffaloberry Hill, gets a job at the hardware store, and helps our at the local animal shelter. But she witnessed something terrible, and someone is following her across the country.

Elia failed someone once long ago, and he's determined he won’t fail Claire. The threats to her bring up old feelings and unfinished business, all of which he'll need to deal with while keeping Claire safe. But Claire has become a part of a community she loves, and she's determined to save herself, if need be.

With lots of small-town charm, bad guys you'll love to hate, and a romance for the ages, you won’t be able to put this one down. It will make you a believer of the kindness of strangers, Karma, true love, and new beginnings. This place and its people will feel like home and you’ll wish you could move here.

The nail-biting danger, drama, and suspense will raise your heart rate and keep you on the edge of your seat, but the healing, heartfelt romance, and fresh start will make you so blissfully happy it will feel like being wrap you in a warm hug. Make sure you don’t miss this addictive, heartwarming, phenomenal romantic suspense.
Profile Image for Hannah Lindley.
165 reviews14 followers
September 19, 2025
Wrecked for Love is the first installment in Alessa Kelly’s much-anticipated Buffaloberry Hills series. Within its pages, Claire is on the run from a dark and dangerous past. She ignores her pain and covers it with a tough, independent exterior, even when her car breaks down and she meets the disarmingly handsome and funny Elia — who, unbeknownst to Claire, has demons of his own. Unforeseen circumstances push the two together, but both of their pasts are catching up with them.
In true Alessa Kelly form, this novel was a sweet yet spicy romance with a dash of suspense. Claire’s past, in particular, was remarkably dark and painful. Having read this — the first Buffaloberry Hills book — and its prequel, it seems that the stories in this series will be particularly family-oriented. Overall, this was quite the enjoyable read, and I can’t wait to continue the series. Thanks to the author for providing me with an advance copy of this book. I'm leaving this honest review voluntarily.
999 reviews36 followers
July 29, 2025
A woman on the run and a man who has shut himself off from the world, when their worlds collide, they find themselves willing to break all the rules. Claire is running from the gang that murdered her brother. She sticks to the shadows and doesn’t stay long in any one place. When she becomes stranded in the town of Buffaloberry Hill, she figures it will only be for a few days. But something about this quaint town, and the rancher who rescued her, grabs a piece of her heart and won’t let go. But how can she protect someone she has grown to love when there is someone else trying to kill her?

This story will capture your heart. The people of Buffaloberry Hill will welcome you with open arms and make you feel like one of the family. It’s a town where they care for their neighbors and welcome a stranger in need.

Tender and loving yet ruthless and determined…this story is wonderfully told. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for a review.
Profile Image for Zulma.
184 reviews2 followers
July 27, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Claire story begins rough. she finds her brother on the brink of death. he had been shot by the bad guys. he tells her to traje the money and run. she does just that and her life adventure leads her to Elias.
elias owns a ranch and has had his own tragedy, maybe that's why they are so drawn to each other. the bad guys seem to appear everywhere and just try and unalive both Elias and Claire. will there love help them survive or will their running save them from the tragedy that both of their siblings have received. this book was captivating, I enjoyed the story line the characters well versed. I looks forward to book 2
1,940 reviews7 followers
August 4, 2025
Start of a new series and if this book is any indication how the rest will follow, you'll want them all.
Claire is a woman on the run. She has been hiding for too long and is getting tired.
Elia is a rancher who has closed himself off to the world. The ranch is his life. This way he can't let one down.
They meet when her car breaks down. He feeds her and gives her shelter. The next morning they part, assuming never to see each other again.
But Claire decides to stay. And what we are given is a slow romance filled with caution, lies and drama.
Claire doesn't want anyone else getting hurt. Elia doesn't want to let anyone down again.
With two sets of protagonists, are Claire and Elia ever going to be safe? And can he forgive her lies.
Profile Image for Jesse.
54 reviews1 follower
March 4, 2026
11/10 ⭐! This book was fantastic from start to finish, and had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. It was a page-turning, suspense-filled, found family, burn-the-world-to-save-her, action-packed, incredibly-written novel. It ate and left NO crumbs. I absolutely loved that Claire was strong enough on her own and didn't ~need~ a man, but found Elias, who supported and added his own strength. She was no damsel, she was a badass! No stone was left unturned by the end, and even parts I had forgotten about were revisited an explained by the end - like Bobo! My heart was ripped out of my chest but then it was melted and remolded into an even stonger one. Not a single improvement to be recommended. 11/10 ⭐❤
1,023 reviews4 followers
July 22, 2025
This is the first in a series that takes us to the town of Buffaloberry Hill in Montana. Claire is on the run and hiding from a gang that killed her brother and tried to kill her. Helped by a stranger and with a new name she finds herself in Buffaloberry Hill during a storm where she is helped by Elia Lucas, a man who keeps to himself and is still grieving the loss of his sister who died at the hands of a neighbour. Determined to try and rebuild her life Claire decides to stay and finds herself spending more time with Elia. But secrets have a habit of coming out and when Claire's past comes back to haunt her, it has the potential to leave a path of destruction in it's wake, if Claire and Elia let it. This is a heartwarming, slow burn, story that shows that determination and the strength of love really can succeed, especially with the help of friends, both new and old. I look forward to seeing what else Buffaloberry Hill has in store.
Profile Image for Meredith Williams.
63 reviews1 follower
August 3, 2025
To have the bravery of Claire to fight, survive, and yet not lose her humanity is what made her my hero. I couldn’t stop reading and routing for well deserved happy ending. Will she won’t she? I had to know. This page turner will keep you on tender hooks hoping waiting with bated breath, will she escape the bad guys hunting her, the law, the town bullies, all while keeping her secrets from the people she finally might find a home with, or will everything catch up to her and her world burn?
Profile Image for Heather.
1,948 reviews25 followers
July 26, 2025
This was a really good read. Claire and Elia are a special couple. They've both endured tragedy. I liked the way they came together. They found something in each other. The suspense was good. It kept me guessing how the story would go. I enjoyed the storyline and liked the characters. I'm looking forward to the next book.
190 reviews7 followers
August 9, 2025
ARC review. Wrecked for Love is the first book in Alessa Kelly’s new Buffaloberry Hill series. Elia and Claire’s story is full of action, unexpected twists and a slow blooming love. Like all of Alessa’s books it’s enjoyable to read and easy to love the characters as the storyline unfolds.
1,254 reviews
August 6, 2025
Claire is back in Buffaloberry Hill renting a a place called The Willow.
Cody is Xlaire’s brother.
Elia owns The Lazy Moon Ranch in Buffaoberry Hill.
Logan is Elia’s best friend.

Elia and Claire meet , when her car breaks down near his farm.
They each have issues her on the run and him closing himself off from relationships.
Can he keep her safe and have a Happily Ever After?

This book has an edge of suspense and danger.

Great Job. Alesia Kelly !!!!
369 reviews7 followers
August 2, 2025
Good book

Elia and Claire have a great love for each other. They are separated many times but they always find their way back to each other.
Profile Image for Michele Del Rey.
3,033 reviews30 followers
August 3, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, I fell in love with the cover first. Once I opened this book, I fell for the great writing and amazing chemistry. I could not get enough of this story.
Profile Image for CAH - malphrusc.
714 reviews6 followers
August 1, 2025
A slow-burn between two tortured souls living in a small town….if it sounds like a good read….IT IS!
Profile Image for Val.
330 reviews2 followers
July 21, 2025
This was a roller coaster of emotions. I laughed at the “meet cute”. I cried for the pain and suffering both had to endure. I enjoyed the slow burn. The story of finding that love that is worth fighting for. Finding your place of belonging so you can stop running. Loving the right person can bring joy and happiness
Profile Image for Rebmay.
2,891 reviews51 followers
July 29, 2025
Claire and Elia’s story is emotional, twisty and gripping. It is part thriller and part epic love story. Right from the first, Claire drew me into her story, and made me eager to discover what happened next in her rather messy life. Luck was with the night her brother died and a stranger came to her rescue and again a few years later when she met Elia. He reluctantly allowed her to take refuge in his home during a storm then missed her the moment she left. He had recognized the pain in her eyes, the weight she seemed to carry on her shoulders, and the fear that had plagued her sleep. He had known she wouldn’t stay, but when she comes back, he is determined to keep her near him. Both Elia and Claire have lost so much and have demons and memories from the past that won’t let them go. Something deep within him tells Elia that Claire is worth risking more heartbreak, that perhaps they can help each other get past the pain they both carry in their hearts. Unfortunately, both have enemies too, enemies that are watching, plotting and waiting to strike, to take back what they think belongs to them, and to exact revenge.

I love the strength of will, stubbornness and determination of these two characters. Both are resilient, but have been so afraid to open their hearts and risk more heartbreak. They feel drawn to each other, safe and comfortable when the other is near and are ready to take a leap of faith. The way Elia woos Claire melts my heart. When he learns more about her past, he is rattled and angry, but then he is determined to hear her side of the story, to find her and bring her back to him. Through it all, even when he is angry or feeling unable to trust her, Elia still wants to protect Claire and keep her safe. He is even more determined to protect her when both of their pasts come back to haunt them. Claire is as fiery, spicy and fierce as the nickname Elia gave her, Miss Chilli Pepper. She stands up for herself, finds ways to endure and survive, and still lives by a strong moral code. Claire and Elia make a great couple, one that is forced to fight for their love and for each other before they find their happily ever after.

This intense, emotional and enthralling book has my wholehearted recommendation.
232 reviews6 followers
August 4, 2025
What a fantastic story. It started off with Claire’s brother getting shot and killed. He told her to take the money and run. Claire was stabbed in the back and shot the man that stabbed her and grabbed the money and took off. When she passed out a veterinarian found her and stitched her up. He gave her his daughter’s identity and car to keep running. Claire just kept moving around because she didn’t want the gang that killed her brother to catch up to her. She finally settled in a small town in Montana where she rented a cottage, got a job, and met this sweet cowboy. There was another man who tried to attack her on a hiking trail and luckily the sweet cowboy rescued her. Later on that same man broke into her cottage and attacked her again but she was able to hit him with a hammer several times. Then she ran but realized that Elia would be blamed for the killing and came back. Elia protected her from the family but they found a way to kidnap her and force Elia to fight. That night the gang recognized her and they took her to another town. Luckily a young boy saw everything the man did and told Elia where the man was at. Elia was able to go there got information and rescued Claire and got away as the police arrested the head of the gang and its members. I loved the ending of this story. It brought tears to my eyes and made me feel so happy for Elia and Claire especially with Elia being reunited with his younger brother. Well written story. I received a free copy of this book. I am leaving this review because the story was fantastic. I really hope you all buy it.
685 reviews
July 26, 2025
Alessa Kelly out did herself on this book. The storyline grips the reader from first page until the last. It has everything you'd want to keep you on the edge of your seat entertained. The two main characters, Elia and Claire, have both experienced heartbreaking loss. She's a fierce spitfire that's on the run and he's a sad, lonely rancher that exists from day to day. Their unusual first meeting brings a spark of life and sunshine into his dark world. The supporting characters, whether they are people or animals, add to this amazing story. This book has all that I enjoy in a good read: danger, suspense, tragedy, betrayal, mystery, intense chemistry between the main characters, and hope for a HEA. I highly recommend this story

I am so thankful to the author for sending me an advance copy. I am freely and gladly leaving a review and encourage putting this book on you TBR list.
2,778 reviews34 followers
July 28, 2025
What a dramatic, dangerous and suspenseful romance. Elia and Claire were so good together.

Running from the MC that killed her brother, Claire ends up in Buffaloberry and meets rancher Elia.

Elia was protective and warm. He was a blunt straight talker and didn't but into Claire's lies well not very much anyway. Claire was stubborn, scared and running for her life so not trusting initially. But that connection and chemistry was there from the first night they meet in the storm.

Trouble was coming for them both and certainly landed. Both brave and doing their best to stand the danger coming.

I enjoyed the supporting characters like Logan, Hank, Daniel and even Koda his dog.

I have really enjoyed this book and so looking forward to more. Especially Noah's book. So amazing this book and I highly recommend it!
1,920 reviews34 followers
August 3, 2025
- Romantic suspense
- Woman on the run
- Small town romance
- Protector

I loved this book so much! I was all in for the story right from the beginning when Claire is looking for her wayward brother. She finds herself in an impossible situation, one that she barely escapes....

Now she is on the run and rarely stays in one place for long. But a storm and a broken down car lead her to the town of Buffaloberry and her life will never be the same.

Elia feels protective of the spunky Claire right from the start, but he has some issues from his past that aren't quite resolved, so he lets her go. But when she returns to the small town, he is determined to make the most of the second chance he has with her.

However, Claire's past is catching up to her.....

The nonstop action and emotion in this book kept me absolutely riveted! I cannot wait to read more in this series!
448 reviews7 followers
July 29, 2025
A new series from a favourite author is always a treat, and Wrecked for Love doesn’t disappoint. Set in the charming small town of Buffaloberry Hill, this story is packed with suspense, drama, and just the right dose of danger to keep you turning pages.

Claire is a fantastic heroine - strong, independent, and determined to rebuild her life. Her first encounter with the gruff, guarded Elia is both amusing and emotionally charged, setting the stage for a gripping romance. Watching these two navigate their way toward a hard-won happily-ever-after was truly satisfying.

Filled with quirky side characters and a tightly woven plot, this nail-biting romantic suspense promises a great new series. I’m already looking forward to catching up with Buffaloberry Hill in the next book!
Profile Image for Heather Wray.
631 reviews5 followers
August 7, 2025
When you can’t stay more than a few weeks in any one place it makes it hard when you land in the one place that feels like home. That includes a reclusive rancher that saved you one night, and just might end up being your whole future.
I really enjoy the stories from this author, and with the start of her new series she’s created a place full of great characters that I’m sure will be as good if not better than her last series.
I would say my favourite Buffaloberryite is the grumpy animal rescue owner. A two stand storyline with a hero that doesn’t quit. Elia and Claire are sure to be a favourite couple for readers.

I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
98 reviews1 follower
August 6, 2025
Claire and Elia meet while Claire is running from danger. She is waiting with fearful breaths that her past won't catch up to her. As she continues her journey, something about Buffaloberry Hill and the man keep pulling her back. Unfortunately new danger finds her and she and Elia must fight to get to their HEA. When her old problems resurface the reader thinks they will never escape the evil and the past. By working together, pulled together by their love and determination, they defeat the odds and move to their HEA. Can't wait for more in the series.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Profile Image for Penny Leidecker.
2,690 reviews27 followers
July 29, 2025
If you enjoy a story with suspense and love, then this is the story for you. Claire has been on the run since the death of her brother, Cody. When she ends up in Buffaloberry Hill, Montana, she meets Elia when she runs out of gas on his farm. I’m not going to leave any spoilers, but I will say this book will pull at your heartstrings in parts. I just loved this wonderful story and I can’t wait to see what this author has for us next. Grab your copy and get ready to meet all the characters.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
5,736 reviews
July 29, 2025
The first in the Buffaloberry Hill small town romance series! I'm so happy!

Elia and Claire are going to live in my mind for quite some time I'm sure!

This is my fourth story by this talented author!

If each of the series was already published, I'd binge them all immediately!

Swoon-worthy?
Absolutely!
Positively!

Suspenseful!
Emotional!
Engaging!

I didn't want to put this down!

I'll definitely be returning to Montana!!!
3,593 reviews41 followers
July 17, 2025
This first story in the series takes the readers to Buffaloberry Hill, a small town in Montana where everyone knows and protects each other.
It’s also where Elia Lucas lives a quiet life in his ranch. He still mourns the death of his sister, whom he believes was murdered by a neighbor, and missed the brother who left more than ten years ago.
In the midst of a storm, he find a woman stranded in her car and offers her help.
Claire Magnussen has escaped New York and is on the run from some evil and dangerous men. Thanks to Elia and a kind veterinarian, she’s been able to stay alive.
As she makes a home, likely a temporary one, in Buffaloberry Hills, feelings between these two develop. But secrets are still being kept .
What will happen if the men from New York finally find Claire? How far will Elia go to keep her safe?
This is engaging story is about two individuals that find love when they least expect it. It’s a story about friendships, loyalties , and overcoming adversity. It’s also a story about second chances in life and love.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for Katheryn Bargas.
332 reviews
December 17, 2025
Wow!

Whew! This was a very powerful love story! Full of Drama, Suspense, Heat , everything you could want and what you didn't know you needed!
Alpha Cowboy, Smart, sexy, Sassy Heroine and loveable animals too!
Profile Image for Sara Quinn.
51 reviews
August 4, 2025
A wonderfullybwritten book. A love story that combines the past of two people into one incredible story. Strong characters that show how far love will go. A great book and a great author
Profile Image for Kristy.
418 reviews5 followers
July 29, 2025
Alessa Kelly has a way of writing small town suspenseful romance that draws me in every. Single. Time. Her spicy scenes have a Hallmark edge and the heroines have strength and backbone. Wrecked for Love is no different with Claire having strength in spades while holding onto her innate goodness. Threads of finding where you belong and the beauty of four-legged friends are woven into the tapestry as secrets are brought to light and doubts are put to rest as happiness is found and treasured.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews

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