What do you think?
Rate this book
A Shot of Her: A Sapphic Romance
Welcome to Kentucky, where the bourbon’s smooth, the quilts are cozy, and the romance is hotter than July.
Laurel Darby is no stranger to hard work, but most folks can’t see past her family’s name and wealth. Having built her quilt shop from the ground up, she knows how hard it is to keep a business running. But that doesn’t leave much time for a relationship, and the last thing on Laurel’s mind is unraveling herself and disrupting her carefully constructed life for mere love.
Fresh out of long-term relationship hell, Dallas Hayes has nothing but a dream and the sweat equity for a fresh start. Opening her bourbon lounge is the only thing on her mind, and she’s bound and determined to make it succeed, and maybe find a little peace while she’s at it. But love? Nope, she won’t go down that rabbit hole again.
As Dallas works to build both her bar and her sense of home, she unintentionally irks Laurel and the customers next door. But it’s Laurel’s gentle teasing and unexpected warmth that keep Dallas on her toes. With every fiery jab and kind smile, Dallas finds herself caught somewhere between frustration and fascination, slowly realizing that the woman next door might be the one thing she didn’t know she was missing.
With their feelings deepening, neither Laurel nor Dallas expects a new threat to appear, one that could destroy everything they’ve worked hard for. With old wounds and new obstacles in their path, can they hold onto each other and fight for the future they both deserve?
An age-gap, opposites-attract romance blooms between a silver fox bourbon bar owner starting over and a warmhearted quilt shop owner with thick curves and a charming smile until a new threat puts their budding connection and community at risk.
*Content warnings can be found on the author's website.
Laurel Darby is no stranger to hard work, but most folks can’t see past her family’s name and wealth. Having built her quilt shop from the ground up, she knows how hard it is to keep a business running. But that doesn’t leave much time for a relationship, and the last thing on Laurel’s mind is unraveling herself and disrupting her carefully constructed life for mere love.
Fresh out of long-term relationship hell, Dallas Hayes has nothing but a dream and the sweat equity for a fresh start. Opening her bourbon lounge is the only thing on her mind, and she’s bound and determined to make it succeed, and maybe find a little peace while she’s at it. But love? Nope, she won’t go down that rabbit hole again.
As Dallas works to build both her bar and her sense of home, she unintentionally irks Laurel and the customers next door. But it’s Laurel’s gentle teasing and unexpected warmth that keep Dallas on her toes. With every fiery jab and kind smile, Dallas finds herself caught somewhere between frustration and fascination, slowly realizing that the woman next door might be the one thing she didn’t know she was missing.
With their feelings deepening, neither Laurel nor Dallas expects a new threat to appear, one that could destroy everything they’ve worked hard for. With old wounds and new obstacles in their path, can they hold onto each other and fight for the future they both deserve?
An age-gap, opposites-attract romance blooms between a silver fox bourbon bar owner starting over and a warmhearted quilt shop owner with thick curves and a charming smile until a new threat puts their budding connection and community at risk.
*Content warnings can be found on the author's website.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 8, 2025
82 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
Katie Trapp
11 books63 followersKatie Trapp is an indie author from a small town in southern Middle Tennessee who currently resides with her wife, two dogs, and two cats in Kentucky. In 2021, she published her debut novel, An Unexpected Partnership, and has been writing ever since.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
July 7, 2025
A Shot of Her by Katie Trapp is a low-angst contemporary romance between mature, independent women. Dallas Hayes is 48 and starting over after a divorce from an abusive spouse, while Laurel Darby, 34, is trying to make her way out from under the shadow of her wealthy family. The two meet when it turns out that Dallas is opening a bourbon bar next to Laurel's quilt shop on the town square in small-town Kentucky. That also makes them neighbors in the apartments above their shops.
The two opposites attract after some initial friction and grow close quickly, yet the progression does not feel forced. The organic relationship feels believable, as does most of the plot.
My small, nitpicky complaint would be the repetition of a few phrases.
The author’s strengths lie in creating a realistic small Southern town populated with authentic characters. She includes details such as traditional Southern food, the sound of rain on a tin roof, an extra side of pickles with lunch, and a gossipy group of churchwomen. None of them feels stereotyped. It's just a snapshot of real life.
The antagonists include a vindictive ex-wife and a smarmy man with boundary issues who does not handle rejection well.
The relationship between Laurel and Dallas can be described as healing. Both of them learn that they deserve more than others have previously given, and they create a solid, supportive unit. They are sweet, quirky, and steamy. Well-done intimate scenes with vulnerability and body positivity make this one delightfully spicy.
This romance is a great read that goes down smoothly and leaves a nice aftertaste.
I recommend this novel as an easy-to-digest story of hope. I have read other books by Katie Trapp and enjoyed them as well.
#plussizeMC #bodypositivity #oppositesattract #smalltown #Kentucky #divorced #startingover #businessowners #quiltshop #bourbonbar #matureMCs #agegap #southern #sweet #spicy #touchheranddie #butch/femme #90'scountrymusic #foundfamily #familysupport
I received a free ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
The two opposites attract after some initial friction and grow close quickly, yet the progression does not feel forced. The organic relationship feels believable, as does most of the plot.
My small, nitpicky complaint would be the repetition of a few phrases.
The author’s strengths lie in creating a realistic small Southern town populated with authentic characters. She includes details such as traditional Southern food, the sound of rain on a tin roof, an extra side of pickles with lunch, and a gossipy group of churchwomen. None of them feels stereotyped. It's just a snapshot of real life.
The antagonists include a vindictive ex-wife and a smarmy man with boundary issues who does not handle rejection well.
The relationship between Laurel and Dallas can be described as healing. Both of them learn that they deserve more than others have previously given, and they create a solid, supportive unit. They are sweet, quirky, and steamy. Well-done intimate scenes with vulnerability and body positivity make this one delightfully spicy.
This romance is a great read that goes down smoothly and leaves a nice aftertaste.
I recommend this novel as an easy-to-digest story of hope. I have read other books by Katie Trapp and enjoyed them as well.
#plussizeMC #bodypositivity #oppositesattract #smalltown #Kentucky #divorced #startingover #businessowners #quiltshop #bourbonbar #matureMCs #agegap #southern #sweet #spicy #touchheranddie #butch/femme #90'scountrymusic #foundfamily #familysupport
I received a free ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
January 21, 2026
An age gap, starting over romance, A Shot of Her is a nice low-angst story with likeable characters and no third act breakup. While I openly admit I'm not the biggest fan of age gaps, I do enjoy the starting over trope and always appreciate it when there's no third act breakup to contend with. 48-year-old Dallas, who has moved to Kentucky to open a bourbon bar after a divorce from a toxic ex-wife, and Laurel, a curvy 34-year-old sweetheart who runs a fabric shop next door, are both lovely characters—and they both happen to live in the apartments above their stores.
There is a bit of conflict between Dallas and Laurel initially but it resolves, and the plot is moved along by conflict with external characters while the two lift each other up. I appreciate how real Trapp's characters are, both the romantic protagonists and the antagonists, and her writing is quite descriptive. Issues like insecurity and the pain of getting older aren't shied away from, and a host of interesting side characters round everything out. Was it my favorite Katie Trapp book? No, but I definitely enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet story between two real, down-to-earth women.
I received a free ARC from the author, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
There is a bit of conflict between Dallas and Laurel initially but it resolves, and the plot is moved along by conflict with external characters while the two lift each other up. I appreciate how real Trapp's characters are, both the romantic protagonists and the antagonists, and her writing is quite descriptive. Issues like insecurity and the pain of getting older aren't shied away from, and a host of interesting side characters round everything out. Was it my favorite Katie Trapp book? No, but I definitely enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet story between two real, down-to-earth women.
I received a free ARC from the author, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.
July 5, 2025
Another amazing story full of relatable characters, body positivity, lots of feels and a sweet hea.
Although their meet-cute isn’t so cute, Dallas and Laurel begin to navigate being neighbors in home and business, friendship and attraction. They quickly find ways to connect in many fun and sweet ways. Communication is beautiful. Consent is sexy. Finding your strength and confidence in yourself is extraordinary. Being supported and seen is divine. Highly recommend!
Although their meet-cute isn’t so cute, Dallas and Laurel begin to navigate being neighbors in home and business, friendship and attraction. They quickly find ways to connect in many fun and sweet ways. Communication is beautiful. Consent is sexy. Finding your strength and confidence in yourself is extraordinary. Being supported and seen is divine. Highly recommend!
July 15, 2025
If I read the phrase "silver fox" one more time, I will scream.
July 18, 2025
3.5 Stars. Quick and easy read. I felt like this book couldn’t decide on a trope. It set itself up to be enemies/annoyances to lovers, but very quickly turned into insta love. I would have liked to see the author play into the tension at the beginning a bit more.
June 24, 2025
Katie Trapp delivers once again with a beautiful, authentic love story between characters who feel so real! A Shot of Her follows the story of 48-year old Dallas Hayes who is relocating to a small town in Kentucky to start her dream business—a bourbon bar. 34-year old Laurel Darby, Dallas’s new neighbor, both in apartment and business, is less excited about the new arrival as she disrupts Laurel’s comfort and routines. This doesn’t last long though, as the pair quickly begin appreciating each other in ways they hadn’t expected, and their love story blooms.
Reading this from my own small town in rural Kentucky, I couldn’t help but be utterly drawn in to the story. While Bucksnort is fictional (I looked it up because I was totally going to plan a little touristy roadtrip there), it was easy to picture life in the town. My mind immediately placed Dallas’s bar and Darby’s shop in the middle of my town’s square, bringing to life the story in such a vivid way.
Not only that; this story is HOT!!! Dallas and Laurel simply can’t get enough of other, and the adoration of each other’s individual characteristics was beautiful. Dallas was obsessed with Laurel’s big and curvy body, while Laurel was equally captivated by the silver fox that is Dallas, even with her need for some accommodations in the bedroom.
I loved every bit of this story and wanted more by the end of it!
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Reading this from my own small town in rural Kentucky, I couldn’t help but be utterly drawn in to the story. While Bucksnort is fictional (I looked it up because I was totally going to plan a little touristy roadtrip there), it was easy to picture life in the town. My mind immediately placed Dallas’s bar and Darby’s shop in the middle of my town’s square, bringing to life the story in such a vivid way.
Not only that; this story is HOT!!! Dallas and Laurel simply can’t get enough of other, and the adoration of each other’s individual characteristics was beautiful. Dallas was obsessed with Laurel’s big and curvy body, while Laurel was equally captivated by the silver fox that is Dallas, even with her need for some accommodations in the bedroom.
I loved every bit of this story and wanted more by the end of it!
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2026
Immersive read
- E-book from my TBR (purchased last year)
- Audiobook shared by the author via NetGalley
Ebook + plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Enjoyed this book a lot! The quilt shop is so cute, you can really tell it means a lot to the author. The bar next door is a great contrast. The small town, age gap, forced proximity aspect will be relatable to those who grew up in similar situations.
The side characters are all fun and add to the world building, I loved all the fun shop names and could really imagine the world these characters were living in.
Audiobook - ⭐️⭐️⭐️&1/2
Audio wise I loved the way Dallas was brought to life. The older, bourbon loving grounded half of the two. You could really feel why she is the way she is.
Laurel on the other hand I felt was portrayed a little more younger and inexperienced than I imagined her to be. Yes the age gap was there and she is a femme bubbly character, but for someone in her 30's who decided to leave her family financial security and successfully build her business from the ground up I personally felt a small mismatch.
With that said, rural stories from the US are still very new to me so that would have contributed to my thoughts on the portrayal. I loved all the diverse performances of all the minor characters, it really helped me find my way into the story.
- E-book from my TBR (purchased last year)
- Audiobook shared by the author via NetGalley
Ebook + plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Enjoyed this book a lot! The quilt shop is so cute, you can really tell it means a lot to the author. The bar next door is a great contrast. The small town, age gap, forced proximity aspect will be relatable to those who grew up in similar situations.
The side characters are all fun and add to the world building, I loved all the fun shop names and could really imagine the world these characters were living in.
Audiobook - ⭐️⭐️⭐️&1/2
Audio wise I loved the way Dallas was brought to life. The older, bourbon loving grounded half of the two. You could really feel why she is the way she is.
Laurel on the other hand I felt was portrayed a little more younger and inexperienced than I imagined her to be. Yes the age gap was there and she is a femme bubbly character, but for someone in her 30's who decided to leave her family financial security and successfully build her business from the ground up I personally felt a small mismatch.
With that said, rural stories from the US are still very new to me so that would have contributed to my thoughts on the portrayal. I loved all the diverse performances of all the minor characters, it really helped me find my way into the story.
July 19, 2025
This was a fun read. I especially appreciated that it is low angst even though both MCs have some significant insecurities.
Dallas is starting over in a new town after a toxic and painful relationship ends. Laurel is a driven business woman who has her own unique style but has a family who don't appreciate her. What they find in each other is a balm for each of their insecurities.
What I most liked about this book was its feel as a "slice of life". We get a great feel for the town and some of the people in it. We meet and get to know the MCs families. We watch the characters living and growing closer. We observe their challenges and some triumphs. We learn their history and watch their stories unfold. It's like moving into a neighborhood and finding the neighbors are folks you hope to be friends with for a long while.
That doesn't mean there aren't conflicts or that the story lacks plot. On the contrary! There's betrayal and attempts at manipulation and fierce mother figures who could scare the devil off! And we see relationships grow and change and love and acceptance are found when we least expect it. It is a very sweet read!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Dallas is starting over in a new town after a toxic and painful relationship ends. Laurel is a driven business woman who has her own unique style but has a family who don't appreciate her. What they find in each other is a balm for each of their insecurities.
What I most liked about this book was its feel as a "slice of life". We get a great feel for the town and some of the people in it. We meet and get to know the MCs families. We watch the characters living and growing closer. We observe their challenges and some triumphs. We learn their history and watch their stories unfold. It's like moving into a neighborhood and finding the neighbors are folks you hope to be friends with for a long while.
That doesn't mean there aren't conflicts or that the story lacks plot. On the contrary! There's betrayal and attempts at manipulation and fierce mother figures who could scare the devil off! And we see relationships grow and change and love and acceptance are found when we least expect it. It is a very sweet read!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
June 29, 2025
This was a wonderful read that I think is best described as a “down-to-earth” love and those are the ones that last! These two people from seemingly different walks of life are connected by small rural town. Something my wife and I know ALL about! It made me see these characters as friends and family myself. The gossip, the small town a-holes (that one guy we all know), and the hometown heroes kept me turning the page! This story had it all. Dallas and Laurel are each other’s biggest cheerleaders and fearless protectors- qualities I share with my own “Dallas.” This will be a special one for me!
July 29, 2025
Steam Level: 2.5/5 Open / Explicit Open Door
Recently divorced and eager for a fresh start, Dallas relocates to the small town of Bucksnort, Kentucky, to be closer to her sister and pursue her dream of opening a bourbon-tasting bar. Her plans, however, hit a few speed bumps, starting with an awkward first encounter with her neighbor, Laurel, whom she accidentally insults. Things don’t get much better when construction on her bar blocks the road, further testing Laurel’s patience. But Dallas has a charm that’s hard to resist, and it doesn’t take long for her to start winning Laurel over.
Laurel runs a cozy fabric shop and values her peaceful routines, routines that are quickly disrupted by her bold, enigmatic new neighbor. Despite their rocky start, Laurel extends an olive branch in the form of food, and soon finds herself captivated by the confident, silver fox, Dallas. All the while, she’s fending off the unwanted and persistent attention of a man who refuses to understand the word "no."
This book is a breath of fresh air, a perfect palate cleanser from the angst-heavy reads I usually gravitate toward. There’s no third-act breakup, and any tension is handled with emotional maturity. Right from the beginning, both main characters are fully realized; they know who they are and what they want. One standout aspect I deeply appreciated was the representation of a full-figured main character, not just curvy, but unapologetically plus-size.
Beyond the romance, the story explores family dynamics surrounding queer identities. Dallas’s experience with found family contrasts beautifully with Laurel’s more conservative upbringing, where acceptance doesn’t come easily. There are a few meaningful obstacles the characters face, but to avoid spoilers, I’ll let readers discover those on their own.
Overall, this was such a comforting and satisfying read. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a heartfelt sapphic romance that doesn’t rely on drama to keep you hooked.
🍺 Silver Fox
🧵 Plus-Sized MC
🍺 Age Gap
🧵 Opposites Attract
🍺 No Third Act Breakup
🧵 Slow Burn
🍺Small Town Romance
Recently divorced and eager for a fresh start, Dallas relocates to the small town of Bucksnort, Kentucky, to be closer to her sister and pursue her dream of opening a bourbon-tasting bar. Her plans, however, hit a few speed bumps, starting with an awkward first encounter with her neighbor, Laurel, whom she accidentally insults. Things don’t get much better when construction on her bar blocks the road, further testing Laurel’s patience. But Dallas has a charm that’s hard to resist, and it doesn’t take long for her to start winning Laurel over.
Laurel runs a cozy fabric shop and values her peaceful routines, routines that are quickly disrupted by her bold, enigmatic new neighbor. Despite their rocky start, Laurel extends an olive branch in the form of food, and soon finds herself captivated by the confident, silver fox, Dallas. All the while, she’s fending off the unwanted and persistent attention of a man who refuses to understand the word "no."
This book is a breath of fresh air, a perfect palate cleanser from the angst-heavy reads I usually gravitate toward. There’s no third-act breakup, and any tension is handled with emotional maturity. Right from the beginning, both main characters are fully realized; they know who they are and what they want. One standout aspect I deeply appreciated was the representation of a full-figured main character, not just curvy, but unapologetically plus-size.
Beyond the romance, the story explores family dynamics surrounding queer identities. Dallas’s experience with found family contrasts beautifully with Laurel’s more conservative upbringing, where acceptance doesn’t come easily. There are a few meaningful obstacles the characters face, but to avoid spoilers, I’ll let readers discover those on their own.
Overall, this was such a comforting and satisfying read. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a heartfelt sapphic romance that doesn’t rely on drama to keep you hooked.
🍺 Silver Fox
🧵 Plus-Sized MC
🍺 Age Gap
🧵 Opposites Attract
🍺 No Third Act Breakup
🧵 Slow Burn
🍺Small Town Romance
February 7, 2026
I would like to thank Netgalley and the Publisher for an ARCs copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
First the positives: I love when books with lesbians say the word lesbian instead of just vaguely implying it. This book had butchfemme representation as well as disability rep with one of the FMCs having a knee problem which was also awsome. The smut scenes were alright the standard romance book stuff. The main couple had decent chemistry and i could totally see why they like each other which i cant say for all romance book couples.
Now the negatives, the plot was very much nothing. All of the villains felt one dimensional and stereotypical, an abusive ex wife and a straight white rich man with too much audacity and neither were very compelling.
The plot was the predictable trope of a rich man trying to ruin a small town festival. I didnt really care much about it as it was obvious from the start that nothing bad would actually happen so i didnt feel invested in the worries of the main characters.
Laurel was a spoiled rich girl who cried whenever someone pointed out shes spoiled and rich. Her denying that having a rich family to fall back on if her business fails is a privilege really annoyed me, it showed no class consciousness for the realities of being a small business owner.
Dallas didnt have much of a personality but whatever.
Overall the book was alright for what it is and thats a cozy romance book and im probably over analyzing it but this is all just my opinion.
id rate is between 2.5 and 2.75 but in my review ill round it up to 3 stars.
First the positives: I love when books with lesbians say the word lesbian instead of just vaguely implying it. This book had butchfemme representation as well as disability rep with one of the FMCs having a knee problem which was also awsome. The smut scenes were alright the standard romance book stuff. The main couple had decent chemistry and i could totally see why they like each other which i cant say for all romance book couples.
Now the negatives, the plot was very much nothing. All of the villains felt one dimensional and stereotypical, an abusive ex wife and a straight white rich man with too much audacity and neither were very compelling.
The plot was the predictable trope of a rich man trying to ruin a small town festival. I didnt really care much about it as it was obvious from the start that nothing bad would actually happen so i didnt feel invested in the worries of the main characters.
Laurel was a spoiled rich girl who cried whenever someone pointed out shes spoiled and rich. Her denying that having a rich family to fall back on if her business fails is a privilege really annoyed me, it showed no class consciousness for the realities of being a small business owner.
Dallas didnt have much of a personality but whatever.
Overall the book was alright for what it is and thats a cozy romance book and im probably over analyzing it but this is all just my opinion.
id rate is between 2.5 and 2.75 but in my review ill round it up to 3 stars.
February 9, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for providing me with a an ARC of this book in return for an honest review!
First off I want to say that this book definitely did deliver on what it set out to do - it provided a fun age-gap and opposites attract dynamic between our FMC's Dallas and Laurel.
The actual flow of the relationship and interactions we were shown between the MCs were a little fuzzy at times and I found it a little hard to know if we were meant to be expecting an enemies/annoyance to lovers trope or insta-love/lust as it switched between these two very quickly. It didn't really give the chance to want to actively root for them to get together because it all happened so fast. It did help that they began to balance each other out nicely though further into the book and we got to see them act more vulnerable with each other.
Generally, it felt like I had read/listened to a lot of this book yet not that much had happened? I suppose that is generally because it's more of a cosy romance book rather than having anything of super high stakes but I would have enjoyed for there to be more on the line throughout this book. I have to say, I do appreciate that we didn't get the usual third act break-up in this book and did like that we were able to see a different type of conflict taking place but I do feel like this alternative was also pretty predictable. I did enjoy the way we got to see it resolved though!
Finally, I really did enjoy the narrator! I found that she expressed all characters clearly and even through the narration, we could clearly hear the difference between characters and their emotions throughout!
First off I want to say that this book definitely did deliver on what it set out to do - it provided a fun age-gap and opposites attract dynamic between our FMC's Dallas and Laurel.
The actual flow of the relationship and interactions we were shown between the MCs were a little fuzzy at times and I found it a little hard to know if we were meant to be expecting an enemies/annoyance to lovers trope or insta-love/lust as it switched between these two very quickly. It didn't really give the chance to want to actively root for them to get together because it all happened so fast. It did help that they began to balance each other out nicely though further into the book and we got to see them act more vulnerable with each other.
Generally, it felt like I had read/listened to a lot of this book yet not that much had happened? I suppose that is generally because it's more of a cosy romance book rather than having anything of super high stakes but I would have enjoyed for there to be more on the line throughout this book. I have to say, I do appreciate that we didn't get the usual third act break-up in this book and did like that we were able to see a different type of conflict taking place but I do feel like this alternative was also pretty predictable. I did enjoy the way we got to see it resolved though!
Finally, I really did enjoy the narrator! I found that she expressed all characters clearly and even through the narration, we could clearly hear the difference between characters and their emotions throughout!
July 9, 2025
ARC Review: *potential spoilers*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
this is the first book i have read by Katie, and it definitely will not be the last! in this book, we follow Dallas and Laurel. two business owners in a small town in Kentucky. we get to watch as their secret—maybe not so secret–instant attraction turns into friendship that turns into something more. their love story was one of my favorites i have ever read because it felt so real. their communication, protectiveness, understanding, and love for each other was like a breath of fresh air. learning about these two people who came from opposite sides of life when it comes to status, family, and money, find their person within each other was truly, truly, beautiful! and katie will have you not only falling in love with the main characters, but some of the side characters as well. the relationship between dallas and her siblings is absolutely heartwarming (and the way they got their names? so flipping cute and adorable!!) learning about how close jackson and his parents are and a little of their backstory will have you cheering loudly for them, seeing the way florence loves laurel and all the little ways she shows it will melt your heart. i honestly could go on and on. it was just so amazing! if you love sapphic books with little to no angst, found family, age gap, rich girl/poor girl (but not at all in the way you would expect), no third act break up, and a HEA this is definitely the book for you!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
this is the first book i have read by Katie, and it definitely will not be the last! in this book, we follow Dallas and Laurel. two business owners in a small town in Kentucky. we get to watch as their secret—maybe not so secret–instant attraction turns into friendship that turns into something more. their love story was one of my favorites i have ever read because it felt so real. their communication, protectiveness, understanding, and love for each other was like a breath of fresh air. learning about these two people who came from opposite sides of life when it comes to status, family, and money, find their person within each other was truly, truly, beautiful! and katie will have you not only falling in love with the main characters, but some of the side characters as well. the relationship between dallas and her siblings is absolutely heartwarming (and the way they got their names? so flipping cute and adorable!!) learning about how close jackson and his parents are and a little of their backstory will have you cheering loudly for them, seeing the way florence loves laurel and all the little ways she shows it will melt your heart. i honestly could go on and on. it was just so amazing! if you love sapphic books with little to no angst, found family, age gap, rich girl/poor girl (but not at all in the way you would expect), no third act break up, and a HEA this is definitely the book for you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2026
Katie Trapp managed to really draw me in to the story and root for Laurel and Dallas. The witty banter between the to MCs made me laugh out loud many times. Even though they clash a lot at first the two MCs soon discover their attraction for each other and start forming an intimate bond going beyond just the physical. I especially liked seeing them have each others backs and supporting one another in their journeys.
Every time I was about to start disliking the display of cliché roles, the strong butch making all the decisions telling the somewhat wimsical femme what to do and how to act, the author surprised me by breaking down those stereotypes and giving both MCs way more layers and depth than I expected.
Tessa Stavers' southern drawl and distinctive voices for the different characters was top notch as well, one of the best narrations I have had the pleasure of listening to so far.
I totally recommend reading or better listening to this (audio)book if you're up for a heartfelt and funny smalltown romance, that addresses overcoming societal norms and family expectations.
Thanks to the author, Tantor Media and netgalley for providing me with an ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Every time I was about to start disliking the display of cliché roles, the strong butch making all the decisions telling the somewhat wimsical femme what to do and how to act, the author surprised me by breaking down those stereotypes and giving both MCs way more layers and depth than I expected.
Tessa Stavers' southern drawl and distinctive voices for the different characters was top notch as well, one of the best narrations I have had the pleasure of listening to so far.
I totally recommend reading or better listening to this (audio)book if you're up for a heartfelt and funny smalltown romance, that addresses overcoming societal norms and family expectations.
Thanks to the author, Tantor Media and netgalley for providing me with an ALC in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2025
This was delightful read about two people really deserving love that find each other. It was great to read about two MC’s that do not have perfect bodies but still find each other so hot and stop being self-conscious about their bodies when they are together.
Their first few encounters are kind of rough and lots of misunderstandings. Laurel is so focused on her shop and Dallas is not used to a woman like Laurel, so sweet and loving, the opposite to her ex-wife. They slowly start to get to know each other and there is chemistry there despite an age gap and very different backgrounds. Soon they have that first kiss, the hottest ever and it soon leads to so much more, they are dynamite together. Finally, Laurel has someone that stands up for her and Dallas has someone that loves her in the way she deserves. Of course no stupid 3rd act break-up with these mature women and that is something I really appreciate.
I received a free ARC from the author and leave a review voluntarily.
Their first few encounters are kind of rough and lots of misunderstandings. Laurel is so focused on her shop and Dallas is not used to a woman like Laurel, so sweet and loving, the opposite to her ex-wife. They slowly start to get to know each other and there is chemistry there despite an age gap and very different backgrounds. Soon they have that first kiss, the hottest ever and it soon leads to so much more, they are dynamite together. Finally, Laurel has someone that stands up for her and Dallas has someone that loves her in the way she deserves. Of course no stupid 3rd act break-up with these mature women and that is something I really appreciate.
I received a free ARC from the author and leave a review voluntarily.
July 6, 2025
Katie Trapp once again delivers a book with real life characters. Laurel is a plus size woman who owns a quilt shop and Dallas is the newcomer who opens a bourbon bar next door. Despite her family wealth, Laurel is down to earth and has done everything on her own without relying on the advantages her name could provide. Dallas is starting over after ending a long term marriage. She's never been with a plus size woman before, but with their attraction to one another, size doesn't matter. Laurel's size isn't a negative and the way Dallas sees her is overwhelmingly positive. Her size wasn't made the focal point of the story; it was just one small aspect of who Laurel is. The story itself was well written and engaging and the side characters were also fully developed. I was invested from the start. If you like believable, real life stories with age gap characters who represent regular people, you will definitely want to give this one a read.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 6, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley, Tantor media and Katie Trapp for the audio copy in exchange of a honest review.
A shot of her is a low angst age gap sapphic romance. It follows Laurel, owner of a quilt shop and Dallas, who opens a bourbon tasting bar next to said quilt shop.
These two don’t start off on the right foot but still quickly form a friendship and physical attraction is obvious.
The romance between these two is very sweet. The smut hot and the chemistry was nice.
However, I felt like sometimes Dallas put the accent on laurel being curvier than her previous partners and it weirded me out as it shouldn’t be noted like that in my opinion.
I really loved how protective Dallas was of laurel. And how she dealt with her aunt and uncle at the dinner at their house. But also how she dealt with the town people at the meeting at laurels place.
No third act break up is a massive brownie point in my books. And on top of that the end of book drama was solved in a really good way, and loved that her aunt and uncle came around and finally visited her in her shop.
A shot of her is a low angst age gap sapphic romance. It follows Laurel, owner of a quilt shop and Dallas, who opens a bourbon tasting bar next to said quilt shop.
These two don’t start off on the right foot but still quickly form a friendship and physical attraction is obvious.
The romance between these two is very sweet. The smut hot and the chemistry was nice.
However, I felt like sometimes Dallas put the accent on laurel being curvier than her previous partners and it weirded me out as it shouldn’t be noted like that in my opinion.
I really loved how protective Dallas was of laurel. And how she dealt with her aunt and uncle at the dinner at their house. But also how she dealt with the town people at the meeting at laurels place.
No third act break up is a massive brownie point in my books. And on top of that the end of book drama was solved in a really good way, and loved that her aunt and uncle came around and finally visited her in her shop.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2025
What a great book. First, we have 2 downtown merchants connecting which gets you into the wonderful dynamics of the town. The MC's are so well drawn you feel like they are your friends with depth but sass. Dallas is just settling into town. She has family support as she starts her new bourbon lounge business but it is a lot of work! Laurel has been running her quilt shop and proving she isn't dependent on her family name. She is a quirky and delightful woman who makes an immediate impression on Dallas. There are some hateful people which just makes the narrative more interesting. I love the romance as it develops against the background of business and town life. There are some great secondary characters. Best is Katie Trapp's ability to really weave the real emotions of these woman as they make it through their lives. I was engrossed and sad when the book ended but happy for the ending. This author never misses and this is no exception.
June 26, 2025
Wonderfully light and sweet. Even though Dallas and Laurel have had their fair share of sour moments in their lives, they meet and, after only a short time and some initial doubts, they are absolutely sweet and perfect for each other.
After a tragic breakup and a traumatic experience with her ex, Dallas leaves her city and her previous life and, at 48, moves to Bucksnort, Kentucky, to start anew.
She opens her bourbon bar right next to Knotty Threads and Laurel Darby, her beautiful, particularly curvy, initially somewhat skeptical but irresistible neighbor.
I read it in one sitting, and I enjoyed the positive effect they have on each other.
Things get very hot between them, and even though Laurel is a bit self-conscious about her appearance, she's incredibly sexy and Dallas discovers for herself how wonderful it is and how much she loves to touch Laurel because of it.
A nice aspect of body positivity.
Thanks so much to Katie Trapp for the ARC. This is my honest review.
After a tragic breakup and a traumatic experience with her ex, Dallas leaves her city and her previous life and, at 48, moves to Bucksnort, Kentucky, to start anew.
She opens her bourbon bar right next to Knotty Threads and Laurel Darby, her beautiful, particularly curvy, initially somewhat skeptical but irresistible neighbor.
I read it in one sitting, and I enjoyed the positive effect they have on each other.
Things get very hot between them, and even though Laurel is a bit self-conscious about her appearance, she's incredibly sexy and Dallas discovers for herself how wonderful it is and how much she loves to touch Laurel because of it.
A nice aspect of body positivity.
Thanks so much to Katie Trapp for the ARC. This is my honest review.
July 20, 2025
Small Town Age Gap Romance
This delightful small town romance is set in Bucksnort, Kentucky, features two of the town’s business owners. Laurel, thirty-four, is an established owner of the town quilt shop called Knotty Threads. Dallas, forty-eight, is new to town following a divorce and is working to get Charred Oak bourbon tasting room operational. Both women live in apartments above their respective shops that have an adjoining hallway. Their initial meeting does not go very well with tempers raised and some yelling. However, they resolve their differences and become good neighbors and eventually more.
As the story progressed I enjoyed how each woman supported the other and made past relationship concerns, like Dallas’ physical and mental abuse in her past marriage, disappear. Dallas also made plus size Laurel feel special and relevant. Overall, a positive read.
This delightful small town romance is set in Bucksnort, Kentucky, features two of the town’s business owners. Laurel, thirty-four, is an established owner of the town quilt shop called Knotty Threads. Dallas, forty-eight, is new to town following a divorce and is working to get Charred Oak bourbon tasting room operational. Both women live in apartments above their respective shops that have an adjoining hallway. Their initial meeting does not go very well with tempers raised and some yelling. However, they resolve their differences and become good neighbors and eventually more.
As the story progressed I enjoyed how each woman supported the other and made past relationship concerns, like Dallas’ physical and mental abuse in her past marriage, disappear. Dallas also made plus size Laurel feel special and relevant. Overall, a positive read.
July 3, 2025
I loved this book! I discovered Katie’s books with Where trust lead us. And I was inmediately deawn to her style, characters and story lines. When I read A shot for her, I finally could put into words why I was so attracted to Karie’s stories. And they weren’t my words, they were Katie’s: ‘I want to represent real people who are rarely represented.’
And Dallas and Laurel are a beautiful example! I love how sweet and healthy is their relationship! Having plus size representation, is always a plus. And the way it’s described in this books it’s so positive! This woman is proud of her curves and doesn’t hide them! She makes fashion an expression of her character, and it’s powerful!
Low angst book- or fluffy book as I like to call them- age gap and plus size character!
If you haven’t discover Katie’s books, give this book a chance!
And Dallas and Laurel are a beautiful example! I love how sweet and healthy is their relationship! Having plus size representation, is always a plus. And the way it’s described in this books it’s so positive! This woman is proud of her curves and doesn’t hide them! She makes fashion an expression of her character, and it’s powerful!
Low angst book- or fluffy book as I like to call them- age gap and plus size character!
If you haven’t discover Katie’s books, give this book a chance!
June 23, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. It’s a truly beautiful example of people choosing each other consistently. Which in my opinion is the truest form of love. To show up and to do so with compassion first and foremost is challenging for most people. We all have our own experiences and pain that often shapes who we are. I loved that this book depicted that so well. Each character has a past, which in their own way wasn’t always easy. Yet they chose to be the best versions of themselves in order to nurture their relationship. My favourite books are ones that show complex characters. Characters that have depth and are impacted by their experiences, yet don’t let their past negatively impact their future.
Received as an arc copy, but all opinions are honest.
Received as an arc copy, but all opinions are honest.
June 25, 2025
Dallas Hayes is using her divorce money to open a bourbon bar in a new town. She arrives late in the evening, startles her neighbor and is instantly struck by how pretty she is.
Laurel Darby, operator of Knotty Threads, works hard to make her business successful, possibly a bit too hard. So she's not thrilled to have Dallas moving in next door to open a bar.
As Laurel gets to know Dallas, she's struggling with the unwanted interest of Jonathan Summer, whom her Aunt and Uncle also want her to date. Even though she's come out to them.
Then, Dallas' ex Vanessa arrives...
Good read. Interesting characters, good background, and thank goodness no third act breakup.
4.5 stars out of 5.
Laurel Darby, operator of Knotty Threads, works hard to make her business successful, possibly a bit too hard. So she's not thrilled to have Dallas moving in next door to open a bar.
As Laurel gets to know Dallas, she's struggling with the unwanted interest of Jonathan Summer, whom her Aunt and Uncle also want her to date. Even though she's come out to them.
Then, Dallas' ex Vanessa arrives...
Good read. Interesting characters, good background, and thank goodness no third act breakup.
4.5 stars out of 5.
July 1, 2025
Laurel (34) and Dallas (48) are our FMCs in this new must read from Katie that takes place in a small Kentucky town. The banter.. ya'll the banter is chef's kiss! 💋
Yes, there are absolutely some serious parts of this book but In-between you're definitely guaranteed to be staring at your e-reader with one heck of a grin. You also may hear a "Oh sh.." slip out. It happens. It's a great book.
The world building, the characters, the banter, the ******* !!!! (can't give it all away), the stress of an opening night and new product launches and the ending.. ya'll the ending!!!
Also, I'm hungry. Eat, then read or eat while reading or at least have food on stand-by. So many great food descriptions. 🤣
Yes, there are absolutely some serious parts of this book but In-between you're definitely guaranteed to be staring at your e-reader with one heck of a grin. You also may hear a "Oh sh.." slip out. It happens. It's a great book.
The world building, the characters, the banter, the ******* !!!! (can't give it all away), the stress of an opening night and new product launches and the ending.. ya'll the ending!!!
Also, I'm hungry. Eat, then read or eat while reading or at least have food on stand-by. So many great food descriptions. 🤣
July 6, 2025
A lovely, low angst story about two business owners finding love in a Kentucky small town.
Full disclosure, age gap is not my favorite trope. HOWEVER, Dallas and Laurel are the exception to that. Although they moved pretty fast, I really enjoyed seeing Laurel's kindness help Dallas heal a little bit after her nasty ex-wife. And I loved the protective but not overbearing aide that Dallas offered Laurel when that smarmy guy refused to take no for an answer.
There's just enough conflict to keep things moving, but not so high of stakes to make me overly anxious about what will happen next.
Dallas and Laurel aren't perfect, and they don't pretend to be, but reading about them is a breath of fresh air.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review!
Full disclosure, age gap is not my favorite trope. HOWEVER, Dallas and Laurel are the exception to that. Although they moved pretty fast, I really enjoyed seeing Laurel's kindness help Dallas heal a little bit after her nasty ex-wife. And I loved the protective but not overbearing aide that Dallas offered Laurel when that smarmy guy refused to take no for an answer.
There's just enough conflict to keep things moving, but not so high of stakes to make me overly anxious about what will happen next.
Dallas and Laurel aren't perfect, and they don't pretend to be, but reading about them is a breath of fresh air.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review!
February 16, 2026
This book was an absolutely fantastic romance story!! It had the age-gap, close proximity, starting over, and such loveable characters. Both FMCs were so relatable and the side characters were highlighted well. The writing style was perfect and the spice was just enough without being over the top. I absolutely love Katie's writing style and am looking forward to more of her books. I listened to the audiobook through NetGalley for this, and adored the narrators. I appreciated that the age gap was easily distinguishable without making it seem too large. My favourite part of this was seeing the growth of both characters without a lot of angst. You could just feel the love and support for each other radiating from this book.
June 26, 2025
ARC review: This story was adorable! Super sweet, low angst, slight age gap, sapphic romance. The body positivity message through out the story was refreshing. I love reading about a woman confident in her body and the woman who loves her exactly how she is. Dallas and Laurel are perfect for each other. Both taking the time to support and encourage each other to be the best they can and love each other through it all. I really enjoy getting the chance to read books by this author. If you are looking for something fairly light hearted and romantic then I highly recommend "A Shot of Her" by Katie Trapp.
June 28, 2025
This is the second book I read from this author and I am not disappointed! The small town, age gap, friends to lovers romance is low angst and has plenty of heartwarming tender moments. Newcomer and restaurant and bar owner Dallas wanted a fresh start after her trauma of a bad divorce and her next door neighbor, Fabric and craft store owner Laurel welcomed her with open arms from the start. Dallas is tough and fair and very protective of Laurel, and Laurel returned her kindness by helping Dallas in moments of urgency. In the author's brilliant hands, we can't help but falling for both women and deeply care about their happiness. A great story of resilience, courage and forever love.
June 29, 2025
The second I saw the description of this book in a sapphic fiction group, I knew I was going to fall hard. I joined Katie’s ARC group so that I could read it ASAP and it did not disappoint. A Shot of Her is an easy, sweet read with a touch of grumpy sunshine (my faveee). Laurel and Dallas are characters that I was immediately endeared to and rooting for. There’s no major drama or trauma on page, which was just what I needed right now. I guess I have a new author to add to my immediately yes list 💕
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews