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The Big Five #1
Always Have, Always Will: A Big Five Novel
She was his sister’s best friend.
He was the boy she could never have.
Now, they're back in each other's orbit - with years of tension, heartbreak, and unfinished business burning beneath the surface.
When Sadie rolls into Southern Utah in her home-on-wheels for her best friend’s wedding, she’s ready to keep things simple. Be the good maid of honor. Keep her heart guarded. And definitely stay far, far away from Wes Taylor - the one man who’s haunted her every mile of the road.
Wes has made a quiet life in southern Utah - repairing things, hanging with his rescue dog, avoiding feelings. But when Sadie crashes back into his world, fiery, free-spirited, and completely off-limits, he starts to wonder if the life he’s built is really living at all.
Under the desert stars, everything feels closer. Even the mistakes they tried to leave behind.
Love was never the plan. But sometimes the wildest detours lead you right back home.
He was the boy she could never have.
Now, they're back in each other's orbit - with years of tension, heartbreak, and unfinished business burning beneath the surface.
When Sadie rolls into Southern Utah in her home-on-wheels for her best friend’s wedding, she’s ready to keep things simple. Be the good maid of honor. Keep her heart guarded. And definitely stay far, far away from Wes Taylor - the one man who’s haunted her every mile of the road.
Wes has made a quiet life in southern Utah - repairing things, hanging with his rescue dog, avoiding feelings. But when Sadie crashes back into his world, fiery, free-spirited, and completely off-limits, he starts to wonder if the life he’s built is really living at all.
Under the desert stars, everything feels closer. Even the mistakes they tried to leave behind.
Love was never the plan. But sometimes the wildest detours lead you right back home.
330 pages, Paperback
Published August 5, 2025
12 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Katie West
5 books16 followersKatie West grew up in the suburbs of Ohio and now calls the red rocks of Southern Utah home. She shares her chaotic, love-filled life with two kids, two dogs, a cat, and a very supportive husband - none of whom will ever read her books. When she’s not writing slow-burn romances with a spicy kick, she’s getting lost on bumpy backroads and fueling up on way too much caffeine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 20, 2025
Because sometimes what you need isn't someone to talk you out of the storm. Sometimes you just need someone to sit with you in it. And I've got a high tolerance for weather.
Guys. I'd like to start this review by asking that: How was this incredibly well-written masterpiece a DEBUT?! The writing was so flawless, the characters lovable, and the depth of the plot impeccably-thought-out. Honestly, I may be biased as childhood-friends-to-lovers would always be my ultimate favorite trope, but I 100% LOVED every single page of this book!
Always Have, Always Will followed Wes and Sadie, two childhood besties who were inseparable up until that embarrassing night when they crossed the line. Fast forward to years later, when Sadie finally came back for her best friend's/Wes' little sister's wedding and needless to say, that was when Sadie and Wes rekindled their friendship...along with what was left behind all those years ago.
Wes doesn't give his heart lightly, and when he does... it comes with every corner of him. The good, the heavy, the quiet stuff he doesn't think anyone can carry.
What made this book stand out among all others, in my opinion, was the intricately-woven mental health element in the story. Instead of making the female main character the vulnerable damsel-in-distress, Wes, our beloved golden retriever & cinnamon roll hero, turned out to be the one battling against his own self-doubt, anxiety, and all the mess (that we could all secretly relate to).
"... I've been thinking about a lot of things. About how love shows up in unexpected places. Sometimes, it's not lightning. It's slow. Quiet. It starts with friendship, and long drives, and knowing someone so well you don't even have to speak to feel them right there beside you."
It was never an easy task to overcome our fear, let alone lay ourselves bare for all to see, judge, and even criticize. But our brave guy here did just that with the help of his family, Sadie, and most importantly, himself, throughout the journey of this book. It was such a heart-wrenching moment to see him conquer his personal demon by the end of the book and decided to be the better man for Sadie--the only girl he'd ever loved and taken in--and for himself.
"Truth is, I want you more than I've ever wanted anything. And if you'll let me, I want to build a life where the view out the back door keeps changing, but the person beside me doesn't."
It goes without saying that I'd been rooting for Wes and Sadie the entire time while savoring this book because how could I not? They missed the first time to confess their love for each other years ago and now, when life presented them with a second chance like a shooting star across the beautiful desert sky, they weren't going to let it slip. Besides, I admired Sadie's persistence and how she could easily tell what was going on in Wes' mind simply by a quick glance. See, that was the most heartfelt feature of a friends-to-lovers trope, which I would never get tired of.
"If you ever decide you're brave enough to make a move," I said over my shoulder, "you know where to find me."
These two loved hard but at the same time, gave each other enough time and space to ponder on everything before reaching that well-deserved happily ever after. In addition, I personally resonated with Sadie a lot when it came to her free-spirited personality. She traveled in her cute blue bus, constantly in pursuit of new adventures around the country, which was something I related to as I am also currently working abroad and experiencing life...well, at least that is what I hope I'm doing. Hence, to see her finally feel the need to settle down with someone else just tugged at my heartstrings.
"... I like exploring and being on the move and seeing new things. I've been running, and for once, I want to run with someone. Just don't give up on us before we even start. That's all I'm asking."
Lastly, don't even get me started on ranting about where this whole story took place. Zion National Park!! If you knew me well, I'd become a huge fan of national parks and it'd always been my dream to explore as many of them as possible. I loved how vast and unfathomably mysterious these natural miracles were and this book depicted the magical change of scenery in Zion, Utah so well that I felt as if I were physically there in the red rock countryside, gawking at saguaros, and witnessing Sadie & Wes falling in love. <3
And under that sky, in the cradle of that impossible landscape, love felt less like a choice and more like gravity. Inevitable. Inescapable. Irrevocable.
Enough said, it was a no-brainer that I'd HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND Always Have, Always Will to everyone! Whether you were looking for a nice summer read filled with road trip vibes, hilarious banters from secondary characters, and unforgettable protagonists, or you simply needed a pick-me-up, this book was for you. Katie did a spectacular job writing this immensely addictive debut novel and I couldn't wait to read the rest of this series, which would take place in the other four national parks in Utah, respectively. :D
***Massive thanks to the author for generously providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
September 6, 2025
A million stars ⭐️
I loved this book with my whole existence 😭 I swear I don’t think I’ve ever tabbed a book so much. Katie’s writing is stunning, the descriptions of the scenery and all of the emotions in this book grabbed me by the arm and yanked me right into the moment with them.
I don’t think I’ve ever read anxiety rep like this. Like truly, I felt seen. My irrational fears were reflected in Wes’s character and I felt validated. But I also, their love was beautiful and filled with so much emotion 🥹
Please please read this 🫶🏻
I loved this book with my whole existence 😭 I swear I don’t think I’ve ever tabbed a book so much. Katie’s writing is stunning, the descriptions of the scenery and all of the emotions in this book grabbed me by the arm and yanked me right into the moment with them.
I don’t think I’ve ever read anxiety rep like this. Like truly, I felt seen. My irrational fears were reflected in Wes’s character and I felt validated. But I also, their love was beautiful and filled with so much emotion 🥹
Please please read this 🫶🏻
July 18, 2025
This is a debut?! No way. Katie did the dang thang!
I loved Sadie who was loud and proud of who she is. I love a female character who says what she thinks and does what she wants!
Wes, my sweet lil angel baby. I’ve never related to an MMC more than I’ve related to Wes. I just want to put him in my pocket and protect him!!
This story brings you through all of the emotions! You get laughter, you get love, you get tears (it’s just so damn good!), you get spice. Boy oh boy, does Wes surprise you! 🫠
I loved Sadie who was loud and proud of who she is. I love a female character who says what she thinks and does what she wants!
Wes, my sweet lil angel baby. I’ve never related to an MMC more than I’ve related to Wes. I just want to put him in my pocket and protect him!!
This story brings you through all of the emotions! You get laughter, you get love, you get tears (it’s just so damn good!), you get spice. Boy oh boy, does Wes surprise you! 🫠
July 12, 2025
6⭐️ READ!!!
Everything about this felt so incredible warm. The setting, the characters, the fight for something rich & raw & real! 🥹❤️
As someone who lives in the desert, I feel like I was right there with them, seeing the red rocks & feeling the sun beat down on my shoulders. 🏜️
Loved the mental health representation, especially on a MMC. Katie please write more because this book felt like home!
Everything about this felt so incredible warm. The setting, the characters, the fight for something rich & raw & real! 🥹❤️
As someone who lives in the desert, I feel like I was right there with them, seeing the red rocks & feeling the sun beat down on my shoulders. 🏜️
Loved the mental health representation, especially on a MMC. Katie please write more because this book felt like home!
September 24, 2025
Fabulous debut, I can't wait to read more of this series!
July 15, 2025
This book completely drew me in in the most beautiful, soul-squeezing kind of way. I’m not sure I have the right words for how deeply I felt this story, but I’ll try.
This isn’t just a second chance romance… it’s a story about timing, growth, healing, and finally understanding the truth behind a love that never really left. Sadie is a heroine after my own heart. She is independent, a little wild, living in her van and dreaming of chasing the world one stop at a time, starting with her love for all the national parks. But no matter how far she’s gone, Wes is still the one place her heart always circles back to.
And Wes? He broke me. Quiet, selfless, filled with so much love but buried in fear and anxiety that convinced him he would never be enough. Watching him slowly open up and face everything he’d spent years running from… I felt every bit of it in my chest.
When Isla’s wedding brings Sadie and Wes back into each other’s lives (in the stunning backdrop of Zion National Park) it’s emotional, tense, soft, and raw. You can feel the weight of everything left unsaid between them. The way they slowly begin to reconnect, to see each other again, felt like watching the rain clear after monsoon season.
This book made me ache in the best way. It was tender and honest and so full of heart. The anxiety representation was some of the most thoughtful I’ve read in a long time, and I loved how real it made both of these characters feel.
Wes and Sadie now live rent-free in my heart. Their story is one I’ll carry with me… one that reminded me how powerful love can be when you finally believe you’re worthy of it. This is a story I will recommend over and over again.
Thank you so much to Katie for allowing me to read this book early and be able to shout from the rooftops about how amazing this story is!
This isn’t just a second chance romance… it’s a story about timing, growth, healing, and finally understanding the truth behind a love that never really left. Sadie is a heroine after my own heart. She is independent, a little wild, living in her van and dreaming of chasing the world one stop at a time, starting with her love for all the national parks. But no matter how far she’s gone, Wes is still the one place her heart always circles back to.
And Wes? He broke me. Quiet, selfless, filled with so much love but buried in fear and anxiety that convinced him he would never be enough. Watching him slowly open up and face everything he’d spent years running from… I felt every bit of it in my chest.
When Isla’s wedding brings Sadie and Wes back into each other’s lives (in the stunning backdrop of Zion National Park) it’s emotional, tense, soft, and raw. You can feel the weight of everything left unsaid between them. The way they slowly begin to reconnect, to see each other again, felt like watching the rain clear after monsoon season.
This book made me ache in the best way. It was tender and honest and so full of heart. The anxiety representation was some of the most thoughtful I’ve read in a long time, and I loved how real it made both of these characters feel.
Wes and Sadie now live rent-free in my heart. Their story is one I’ll carry with me… one that reminded me how powerful love can be when you finally believe you’re worthy of it. This is a story I will recommend over and over again.
Thank you so much to Katie for allowing me to read this book early and be able to shout from the rooftops about how amazing this story is!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2025
Always Have, Always Will is a best friend's brother, close proximity romance and is the story of Sadie and Wes.
Sadie grew up with Isla and her family, friends who became family. As teenagers, Sadie was not just friends with Isla but also with her brother Wes, best friends. Wes was Isla's older brother, their protector and friend.
Back in town for Isla's wedding, Sadie and Wes are thrust back into each other's orbit when Sadie needs a place to stay for wedding week. Sadie is trying to keep her distance from Wes as he is the one who broke her teenage heart and has avoided her for years since. Wes has made a quiet life in his hometown, repairing broken things but never being able to fix his shattered heart when he had to walk away from Sadie. Now she is back and he wonders if the life he has built was actually living or has he been stuck for years wanting the one woman he let go.
This book was such an emotional rollercoaster, Sadie and Wes have been circling each other since they were kids and now that they are back in each other's lives, they cannot stop the pull between them. You can feel Wes' anxiety and stress in this story and the way that Sadie is able to calm his storm is beautifully articulated. Coming to terms with their past and the f-it moment of surrendering to their attraction was so hot and Wes' filthy mouth was superb. It was great to see how Wes worked through his doubts and Sadie giving him the time to see the future they could share and build together.
Great storyline, wonderfully written main and side characters that made for a great book from start to finish. This is a best friend's brother romance with steam and swoony, heartfelt moments of redemption.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Sadie grew up with Isla and her family, friends who became family. As teenagers, Sadie was not just friends with Isla but also with her brother Wes, best friends. Wes was Isla's older brother, their protector and friend.
Back in town for Isla's wedding, Sadie and Wes are thrust back into each other's orbit when Sadie needs a place to stay for wedding week. Sadie is trying to keep her distance from Wes as he is the one who broke her teenage heart and has avoided her for years since. Wes has made a quiet life in his hometown, repairing broken things but never being able to fix his shattered heart when he had to walk away from Sadie. Now she is back and he wonders if the life he has built was actually living or has he been stuck for years wanting the one woman he let go.
This book was such an emotional rollercoaster, Sadie and Wes have been circling each other since they were kids and now that they are back in each other's lives, they cannot stop the pull between them. You can feel Wes' anxiety and stress in this story and the way that Sadie is able to calm his storm is beautifully articulated. Coming to terms with their past and the f-it moment of surrendering to their attraction was so hot and Wes' filthy mouth was superb. It was great to see how Wes worked through his doubts and Sadie giving him the time to see the future they could share and build together.
Great storyline, wonderfully written main and side characters that made for a great book from start to finish. This is a best friend's brother romance with steam and swoony, heartfelt moments of redemption.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 15, 2025
Always have, always will - the name itself gives us the idea of the book. This is a second chance romance of two childhood best friends, where the mmc is her best friend's brother.
Sadie is a free-spirited, strong woman, living in a bus, travelling around the country and Wes works as a handyman fixing anything and everything he can find, while craving for someone to fix him.
The setting of the book is just wonderful. The southern setting made me remember Georgia from Ginny and Georgia and the place where this is set, Zion🫠 do I need to say more🎀
The mountains, desert and rainstorm- didn't know I was into these things until I read this book. Now, after finishing this, I wanna go on a hike😭🤍
The romance:
This is a second chance romance where both of them have a crush on each other for quite a long time now...and God! the pining, the yearning🤌🏻😮💨 I couldn't get enough of it. They were written so well that I could feel it in my bones❤️🔥the double POV was just chef's kiss💓
And my girl Sadie, she has become my favourite fmc of all time😌 She doesn't wait around with no guarantees, did that once and she LEARNED her lesson, unlike many of us who never learn no matter how many times we get hit. She's clear about what she needs and expresses them too that Self respect bows down to her🙇🏻♀️
Sadie teaches us that love is not in vague answers, flirty conversations and empty promises. Love is all about the actions. You don't need someone to tell you they love you 10 times a day, you need someone who'll choose you and only you in both the good and the bad. You need someone who will prove their love by their actions 🥹❤️
I'm going to recommend this book whenever someone asks for my favourite character 😌💓
Sadie is a free-spirited, strong woman, living in a bus, travelling around the country and Wes works as a handyman fixing anything and everything he can find, while craving for someone to fix him.
The setting of the book is just wonderful. The southern setting made me remember Georgia from Ginny and Georgia and the place where this is set, Zion🫠 do I need to say more🎀
The mountains, desert and rainstorm- didn't know I was into these things until I read this book. Now, after finishing this, I wanna go on a hike😭🤍
The romance:
This is a second chance romance where both of them have a crush on each other for quite a long time now...and God! the pining, the yearning🤌🏻😮💨 I couldn't get enough of it. They were written so well that I could feel it in my bones❤️🔥the double POV was just chef's kiss💓
And my girl Sadie, she has become my favourite fmc of all time😌 She doesn't wait around with no guarantees, did that once and she LEARNED her lesson, unlike many of us who never learn no matter how many times we get hit. She's clear about what she needs and expresses them too that Self respect bows down to her🙇🏻♀️
Sadie teaches us that love is not in vague answers, flirty conversations and empty promises. Love is all about the actions. You don't need someone to tell you they love you 10 times a day, you need someone who'll choose you and only you in both the good and the bad. You need someone who will prove their love by their actions 🥹❤️
I'm going to recommend this book whenever someone asks for my favourite character 😌💓
August 10, 2025
Always Have, Always Will
By @katiewest
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📍Childhood friends-to-lovers
📍Sister's best friend
📍It's always been you
📍Opposites attract, black sheep/social butterfly
📍Anxiety rep
In Katie West's debut novel, we follow Wes and Sadie as they come together for his sister, her best friend's, wedding. Wes has social anxiety but is thrust into social events as part of the wedding party. Sadie is always there to help him decompress.
As teens they had a moment but nothing came of it. Now, the pull toward one another is too strong. They agree to try but keep it a secret until after the wedding. Seeing them fight their pull when around others and support and defend one another is endearing. Wes lets his intrusive fears of inadequacy make him question if he's good enough for Sadie. Sadie's fear of being ultimately rejected by Wes, again, has her wondering if she's meant to be alone.
This was a beautiful story of love, perseverance, determination, and the hope of possibilities of a life worth living. I highly recommend this book and look forward to Ms West's future works.
By @katiewest
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📍Childhood friends-to-lovers
📍Sister's best friend
📍It's always been you
📍Opposites attract, black sheep/social butterfly
📍Anxiety rep
In Katie West's debut novel, we follow Wes and Sadie as they come together for his sister, her best friend's, wedding. Wes has social anxiety but is thrust into social events as part of the wedding party. Sadie is always there to help him decompress.
As teens they had a moment but nothing came of it. Now, the pull toward one another is too strong. They agree to try but keep it a secret until after the wedding. Seeing them fight their pull when around others and support and defend one another is endearing. Wes lets his intrusive fears of inadequacy make him question if he's good enough for Sadie. Sadie's fear of being ultimately rejected by Wes, again, has her wondering if she's meant to be alone.
This was a beautiful story of love, perseverance, determination, and the hope of possibilities of a life worth living. I highly recommend this book and look forward to Ms West's future works.
July 13, 2025
First of all, thank you to Katie West for reaching out and offering me an advanced copy of her debut novel, Always Have, Always Will.
If you like the best friend's brother and second chance romance tropes, then you may want to check this one out. Always Have, Always Will follows Sadie returning to her hometown in Utah for her best friend's wedding, the only issue is the week of forced proximity to Isla's brother, Wes. Sadie and Wes have always been in each other's orbits, but after a kiss in the rain years ago ended poorly, they've pretty much avoided each other since.
I enjoyed Always Have, Always Will and thought it was a great debut and a really easy read to get into. I think it could've actually benefited from being a bit longer to develop the characters and the plot more. The ending felt as if it dragged slightly longer than it should. I would've preferred for that time to be used to create tension between the characters at the beginning.
Nevertheless, congratulations to Katie on her debut novel, and I look forward to seeing where this series goes.
If you like the best friend's brother and second chance romance tropes, then you may want to check this one out. Always Have, Always Will follows Sadie returning to her hometown in Utah for her best friend's wedding, the only issue is the week of forced proximity to Isla's brother, Wes. Sadie and Wes have always been in each other's orbits, but after a kiss in the rain years ago ended poorly, they've pretty much avoided each other since.
I enjoyed Always Have, Always Will and thought it was a great debut and a really easy read to get into. I think it could've actually benefited from being a bit longer to develop the characters and the plot more. The ending felt as if it dragged slightly longer than it should. I would've preferred for that time to be used to create tension between the characters at the beginning.
Nevertheless, congratulations to Katie on her debut novel, and I look forward to seeing where this series goes.
July 28, 2025
I honestly can’t believe this is a debut! Katie’s writing is clean, heartfelt, and so easy to sink into. The story flows effortlessly, and I was hooked from the start. I loved how the MMC was portrayed with softness and emotional depth, while the FMC had such a strong and grounded presence. Together, they balanced each other.
If anything, I wish it had been longer, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye.
Tropes:
• Close proximity
• Best friend’s brother
• National parks
• Second chance romance
• Thoughtful anxiety rep
✨ Favorite Quote:
“Because sometimes what you need isn’t someone to talk you out of the storm. Sometimes you just need someone to sit with you in it.”
Spice:
🌶️🌶️
July 13, 2025
This was a fantastic debut 👏🏼 & honestly, the acknowledgements had me in my feels!
This is a great second-chance, small-town story filled with YEARNING. I loved that the FMC was a van-life girlie & the MMC a handy-man. Felt like the perfect combo of free-spirited & down-to-earth.
My biggest complaint: the characters right off the bat wear their feelings on their sleeve & I would have loved a bit more mystery / lead up to the big feelings. It made the rest of the story more predictable for me.
However, I fell in love with the desert setting & loved the Vegas cameo as contrast. The declarations of love were so so sweet & vulnerable. + some of the better spice I’ve read!!
This is a great second-chance, small-town story filled with YEARNING. I loved that the FMC was a van-life girlie & the MMC a handy-man. Felt like the perfect combo of free-spirited & down-to-earth.
My biggest complaint: the characters right off the bat wear their feelings on their sleeve & I would have loved a bit more mystery / lead up to the big feelings. It made the rest of the story more predictable for me.
However, I fell in love with the desert setting & loved the Vegas cameo as contrast. The declarations of love were so so sweet & vulnerable. + some of the better spice I’ve read!!
August 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
sweet second chance romance
best friend's brother
Wes and Sadie see each other again when Wes's sister gets married. Sadie lives on wheels and loves to explore and Wes loves stability and needs to think everything through.
I think this is such a great cozy read 🩷
sweet second chance romance
best friend's brother
Wes and Sadie see each other again when Wes's sister gets married. Sadie lives on wheels and loves to explore and Wes loves stability and needs to think everything through.
I think this is such a great cozy read 🩷
August 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
sweet second chance romance
best friend's brother
Wes and Sadie see each other again when Wes's sister gets married. Sadie lives on wheels and loves to explore and Wes loves stability and needs to think everything through.
I think this is such a great cozy read 🩷
sweet second chance romance
best friend's brother
Wes and Sadie see each other again when Wes's sister gets married. Sadie lives on wheels and loves to explore and Wes loves stability and needs to think everything through.
I think this is such a great cozy read 🩷
September 6, 2025
Are you kidding me???? I’m obsessed with this and these two!!! The tension, the love, the realness and the different side of seeing anxiety through a man. I ate this book right up. So cute & I only shed a few tears 🥹
July 14, 2025
How on earth is this a debut novel?? I would have never guessed reading this that the author isn’t already an established writer. I got sucked into this story so quick!
I loved the main characters. Sadie is so fun without being obnoxious. Wes is adorable and surprisingly hot (you barely talk and you’re a dirty talker??). I loved how prevalent anxiety was in this and how the author handled explaining it.
I’m super stoked this will be a series, I can’t wait to continue on with it!
I loved the main characters. Sadie is so fun without being obnoxious. Wes is adorable and surprisingly hot (you barely talk and you’re a dirty talker??). I loved how prevalent anxiety was in this and how the author handled explaining it.
I’m super stoked this will be a series, I can’t wait to continue on with it!
July 11, 2025
Kicking and swinging my feet over here!!! Just finished Always Have, Always Will by Katie West and wow! I can’t stop thinking about it 💛
Wes and Sadie? I’m gonna be obsessed with you forever!!!
This debut romance seriously has it all. I never say no to a best friend’s brother or forced proximity, and Katie nailed it! The slow burn is everything, and yes, it definitely brings the spice when it needs to 🔥 That kind of slow burn that makes your heart ache in the best way.
“You wreck me,” he gritted out. “You always have.”
Literally chef’s kiss. 👌🏽
Katie’s writing is warm, emotional, and so easy to get lost in. Huge thanks to her for letting me read this early. I’m grabbing a physical copy the second it drops!
Releases August 5, 2025 — go preorder it! 🥹
Wes and Sadie? I’m gonna be obsessed with you forever!!!
This debut romance seriously has it all. I never say no to a best friend’s brother or forced proximity, and Katie nailed it! The slow burn is everything, and yes, it definitely brings the spice when it needs to 🔥 That kind of slow burn that makes your heart ache in the best way.
“You wreck me,” he gritted out. “You always have.”
Literally chef’s kiss. 👌🏽
Katie’s writing is warm, emotional, and so easy to get lost in. Huge thanks to her for letting me read this early. I’m grabbing a physical copy the second it drops!
Releases August 5, 2025 — go preorder it! 🥹
August 24, 2025
Absolutely 6 stars all day, no question.
“Then don’t waste time,” she said softly. “If you’re lucky enough to love someone and have them love you back? Don’t wait. Don’t hide. Life doesn’t always give you a later.”
I finally got to finish Always Have, Always Will without anyone bothering me… AND I AM SOBBING. Like boo-hooing, I feel so seen, and the love was so touching kind of cry. WOW. Just wow. I absolutely loved reading both of their perspectives throughout the end so we could really feel how they both were feeling.
‘She’d always been sunshine and mischief, wrapped up in ripped jeans and that low, throaty voice that twisted me up even when we were kids. Her freckled cheeks, always kissed by the sun.’
Sadie is a wild card, always on the move, never staying in one place for too long. She’s carefree and speaks her mind. She’s enervating I wish I could be. Adventurous and funny and confident. I absolutely loved how she just took a chance, poured her heart out and laid it all on the table because she was going after what she wanted. No matter how scary.
‘Wes Taylor was built for taking care of the people he loved. He just... never seemed to know how to take care of himself.’
Wes is truly inside my head. The way Katie portrayed anxiety was SPOT ON for me. I can’t tell you how many things I didn’t do because I was too scared. I feel inspired now to say f it and go. Wes gets in his own way more often than not because he wants to stay safe, stay in his bubble of what he knows. And he doesn’t want to rock the boat and lose those he loves because what he wants may not be what everyone else wants for him. Him overcoming his fears was so cathartic and made my heart crack wide open. Absolutely adored everything about him.
I don’t remember the last time a romance book made me cry, if one ever even has, but this one got me good and I LOVED every minute. I would’ve finished it in a day had a bunch of circumstances not gotten in my way.
Katie’s writing was so poetic and made me truly feel and see what the characters did. I am absolutely in love with the start of this series and cannot wait for the next one. Truly couldn’t have loved this book more.
"And if you’re lucky… like, really lucky… you get to spend your life with someone who feels like home and freedom. Who drives you crazy and keeps you steady. Who knows your worst and loves you harder for it."
THANK YOU Katie, for sharing this gift with me and reaching out to little old me to read this book. I will never be more thankful that you took a chance to DM me.
☀️ second chance romance
🌧️ delicious slow burn
☀️ best friends brother to lovers
🌧️ anxiety rep
☀️ forced proximity
🌧️ van life / national parks
Some of my faves:
‘I hated to admit it, but since I stalled out here in Saint George, I’d been living half-asleep. When she walked into the room, my room. Color came back into everything. It wasn’t just her smile - though God knows that was enough to wreck a man. It was the way she looked at things, really looked. Like the world was a story she couldn’t wait to live. Like people were magic waiting to be discovered.’
‘Anxiety doesn’t care how strong I look. It doesn’t care that I can fix a roof or hike ten miles in ninety-degree heat. It waits. It whispers. It finds the crack in the armor and pushes, just enough to make me doubt everything I thought I had handled. And the worst part?
It always makes me think I’m the problem.’
‘I hated feeling so stuck, but taking any action was paralyzing. So I stayed stuck.’
‘I tried to shove it down. Shake it off. Vegas was just another place, and I wasn’t some scared kid who couldn’t handle a damn city. I fixed broken things for a living. I showed up. I handled it. But anxiety didn’t care. It didn’t wait for permission. It started its usual routine - buzzing under my skin like static, filling my head with what-ifs.
Because, sometimes it’s loud. A thousand thoughts crashing in at once, all of them worst-case. Did I say the wrong thing? Should I have stayed quiet?’
‘She’s not just a good time or a one night thing. She’s Sadie. My sister’s best friend. The girl who’s been orbiting my life like a comet for years, and last night she finally landed. I still didn’t have the guts to tell her why I never stopped watching the sky for her.’
“I used to think I was broken,” he said, voice low like it might crack if he tried to lift it. “Back in high school, when shit like this happened… When I’d freeze up or freak out for no reason, I’d just shut down. Pretend I was fine, ride it out, and hate myself after.”
“You’re not broken, Wes,” I said. “You’re human.”
“You’ve always been my sun. You know that?” he said, like it hurt to say it. “Since we were kids. You just… burn through the fog. Make it easier to breathe. I don’t even think you know you do it.”
‘Valley of Fire at night felt like another world entirely. Like the desert had exhaled and peeled back its skin to show you something secret, sacred. The stars hung heavy and low, scattered like shattered glass across the velvet-black sky, so close it felt like you could pluck one down and tuck it behind someone’s ear.’
“Yeah,” I said. “Your storm, your rules.” His lips quirked. “Thanks, sunshine.”
“Then don’t waste time,” she said softly. “If you’re lucky enough to love someone and have them love you back? Don’t wait. Don’t hide. Life doesn’t always give you a later.”
I finally got to finish Always Have, Always Will without anyone bothering me… AND I AM SOBBING. Like boo-hooing, I feel so seen, and the love was so touching kind of cry. WOW. Just wow. I absolutely loved reading both of their perspectives throughout the end so we could really feel how they both were feeling.
‘She’d always been sunshine and mischief, wrapped up in ripped jeans and that low, throaty voice that twisted me up even when we were kids. Her freckled cheeks, always kissed by the sun.’
Sadie is a wild card, always on the move, never staying in one place for too long. She’s carefree and speaks her mind. She’s enervating I wish I could be. Adventurous and funny and confident. I absolutely loved how she just took a chance, poured her heart out and laid it all on the table because she was going after what she wanted. No matter how scary.
‘Wes Taylor was built for taking care of the people he loved. He just... never seemed to know how to take care of himself.’
Wes is truly inside my head. The way Katie portrayed anxiety was SPOT ON for me. I can’t tell you how many things I didn’t do because I was too scared. I feel inspired now to say f it and go. Wes gets in his own way more often than not because he wants to stay safe, stay in his bubble of what he knows. And he doesn’t want to rock the boat and lose those he loves because what he wants may not be what everyone else wants for him. Him overcoming his fears was so cathartic and made my heart crack wide open. Absolutely adored everything about him.
I don’t remember the last time a romance book made me cry, if one ever even has, but this one got me good and I LOVED every minute. I would’ve finished it in a day had a bunch of circumstances not gotten in my way.
Katie’s writing was so poetic and made me truly feel and see what the characters did. I am absolutely in love with the start of this series and cannot wait for the next one. Truly couldn’t have loved this book more.
"And if you’re lucky… like, really lucky… you get to spend your life with someone who feels like home and freedom. Who drives you crazy and keeps you steady. Who knows your worst and loves you harder for it."
THANK YOU Katie, for sharing this gift with me and reaching out to little old me to read this book. I will never be more thankful that you took a chance to DM me.
☀️ second chance romance
🌧️ delicious slow burn
☀️ best friends brother to lovers
🌧️ anxiety rep
☀️ forced proximity
🌧️ van life / national parks
Some of my faves:
‘I hated to admit it, but since I stalled out here in Saint George, I’d been living half-asleep. When she walked into the room, my room. Color came back into everything. It wasn’t just her smile - though God knows that was enough to wreck a man. It was the way she looked at things, really looked. Like the world was a story she couldn’t wait to live. Like people were magic waiting to be discovered.’
‘Anxiety doesn’t care how strong I look. It doesn’t care that I can fix a roof or hike ten miles in ninety-degree heat. It waits. It whispers. It finds the crack in the armor and pushes, just enough to make me doubt everything I thought I had handled. And the worst part?
It always makes me think I’m the problem.’
‘I hated feeling so stuck, but taking any action was paralyzing. So I stayed stuck.’
‘I tried to shove it down. Shake it off. Vegas was just another place, and I wasn’t some scared kid who couldn’t handle a damn city. I fixed broken things for a living. I showed up. I handled it. But anxiety didn’t care. It didn’t wait for permission. It started its usual routine - buzzing under my skin like static, filling my head with what-ifs.
Because, sometimes it’s loud. A thousand thoughts crashing in at once, all of them worst-case. Did I say the wrong thing? Should I have stayed quiet?’
‘She’s not just a good time or a one night thing. She’s Sadie. My sister’s best friend. The girl who’s been orbiting my life like a comet for years, and last night she finally landed. I still didn’t have the guts to tell her why I never stopped watching the sky for her.’
“I used to think I was broken,” he said, voice low like it might crack if he tried to lift it. “Back in high school, when shit like this happened… When I’d freeze up or freak out for no reason, I’d just shut down. Pretend I was fine, ride it out, and hate myself after.”
“You’re not broken, Wes,” I said. “You’re human.”
“You’ve always been my sun. You know that?” he said, like it hurt to say it. “Since we were kids. You just… burn through the fog. Make it easier to breathe. I don’t even think you know you do it.”
‘Valley of Fire at night felt like another world entirely. Like the desert had exhaled and peeled back its skin to show you something secret, sacred. The stars hung heavy and low, scattered like shattered glass across the velvet-black sky, so close it felt like you could pluck one down and tuck it behind someone’s ear.’
“Yeah,” I said. “Your storm, your rules.” His lips quirked. “Thanks, sunshine.”
July 18, 2025
“I’m sorry for freezing up. For making you think I didn’t want this.” I stepped closer. “Truth is, I want you more than I’ve ever wanted anything. And if you’ll let me, I want to build a life where the view out the back door keeps changing, but the person beside me doesn’t.”
‘Always Have, Always Will’ is Katie West’s debut romance novel, following Wes and Sadie’s beautiful and heartwarming love story, starting from when they were younger, having feelings and sadly never being able to act on them. But now, fast forward through years of being separated and longing for each other, Wes and Sadie are reunited at Wes’s sister, Isla’s wedding in Utah, who is also Sadie’s best friend and Sadie is her MOH. And that means Wes is off limits for Sadie… and Sadie is off limits for Wes. With the chaos and responsibilities that come with helping prepare for Isla’s wedding day, Wes and Sadie have to remind themselves to keep their distance from each other.
💛best friend’s brother
💛second chance romance
💛national parks love
💛slow burn
💛anxiety representation
From the moment we meet both Sadie and Wes, I instantly fell in love with these characters. Sadie is an adventurous, creative and free-spirited woman and Wes is handy, kind, and enjoys repairing things and working with his hands, while suffering from anxiety through his life. They are both very well written and I loved learning about their past, and the outcome of them getting a second chance of love truly was so heartwarming! I especially loved how Wes’s anxiety was written, being shown so incredibly well and it was so touching to see Sadie see signs of it and do small things for him to help him during those moments.
As you read this beautiful romance novel, you are immersed into the gorgeous scenery of Utah and the desert by Katie’s talented and descriptive writing in those scenes. The scene descriptions were so stunning, I could just picture myself in the desert, sitting in a chair by a campfire next to Sadie’s bus Indigo, curled up with this book under the starry skies.
I also absolutely adore this beautiful cover for this novel!
Thank you Katie for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of ‘Always Have, Always Will.’ It was truly an honor and I absolutely loved it and I will be buying a copy to reread and display proudly on my bookshelf! Congratulations on your debut, I am so thrilled for you and I wish all the best to you for the release on August 5, 2025!
I highly recommend this book! Make sure you pre-order yourself a copy now!
I'm very eager and excited to see what Katie writes in the future and her books will now be on my auto-buy author list!
‘Always Have, Always Will’ is Katie West’s debut romance novel, following Wes and Sadie’s beautiful and heartwarming love story, starting from when they were younger, having feelings and sadly never being able to act on them. But now, fast forward through years of being separated and longing for each other, Wes and Sadie are reunited at Wes’s sister, Isla’s wedding in Utah, who is also Sadie’s best friend and Sadie is her MOH. And that means Wes is off limits for Sadie… and Sadie is off limits for Wes. With the chaos and responsibilities that come with helping prepare for Isla’s wedding day, Wes and Sadie have to remind themselves to keep their distance from each other.
💛best friend’s brother
💛second chance romance
💛national parks love
💛slow burn
💛anxiety representation
From the moment we meet both Sadie and Wes, I instantly fell in love with these characters. Sadie is an adventurous, creative and free-spirited woman and Wes is handy, kind, and enjoys repairing things and working with his hands, while suffering from anxiety through his life. They are both very well written and I loved learning about their past, and the outcome of them getting a second chance of love truly was so heartwarming! I especially loved how Wes’s anxiety was written, being shown so incredibly well and it was so touching to see Sadie see signs of it and do small things for him to help him during those moments.
As you read this beautiful romance novel, you are immersed into the gorgeous scenery of Utah and the desert by Katie’s talented and descriptive writing in those scenes. The scene descriptions were so stunning, I could just picture myself in the desert, sitting in a chair by a campfire next to Sadie’s bus Indigo, curled up with this book under the starry skies.
I also absolutely adore this beautiful cover for this novel!
Thank you Katie for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of ‘Always Have, Always Will.’ It was truly an honor and I absolutely loved it and I will be buying a copy to reread and display proudly on my bookshelf! Congratulations on your debut, I am so thrilled for you and I wish all the best to you for the release on August 5, 2025!
I highly recommend this book! Make sure you pre-order yourself a copy now!
I'm very eager and excited to see what Katie writes in the future and her books will now be on my auto-buy author list!
August 9, 2025
Wes doesn't give his heart lightly, and when he does... it comes with every corner of him. The good, the heavy, the quiet stuff he doesn't think anyone can carry.
Thank you to the author for sending this ARC towards my way! The writing was so flawless and the depth of the plot impeccably thought-out. The characters were so loving and I loved reading the book since page 1! I can't believe it is her debut novel because oh my god the book is so so so good!!!
She was his sister's best friend.
He was the boy she could never have.
Now, they're back in each other's orbit - with years of tension, heartbreak, and unfinished business burning beneath the surface.
This book intricately discusses the struggles of mental health that one faces and that is something which made this book one of my good reads of 2025! Here, our FMC was portrayed as a fierce and strong-willed woman instead of a damsel in distress and our MMC is just a perfect golden retriever and cinnamon roll hero who turned out to be dealing with his own demons and scars! It was such a heart wrenching scene to see our FMC conquer and fight with his own demons by the end of this book!
Everything about this book felt so warm and touching. This is a second chance romance where both of them have a crush on each other for quite a long time now and God! the pining, the yearning I couldn't get enough of it. They were written so well that I could feel it in my bones
the double POV was just the chef's kiss!
Sadie is our free - spirited and strong FMC and she instantly became one of my favourite FMCs of all time! She teaches us here that love is all about actions and being present! It's the little things that matter! You don't need someone who tells you I love you numerous times a day but someone who actually chooses you everyday and every second! Falling in love is a coincidence but staying in love is a choice!
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves these tropes:
1. best friend's brother
2. anxiety representation
3. forced proximity
4. second chance romance
5. dual POV
Thank you to the author for sending this ARC towards my way! The writing was so flawless and the depth of the plot impeccably thought-out. The characters were so loving and I loved reading the book since page 1! I can't believe it is her debut novel because oh my god the book is so so so good!!!
She was his sister's best friend.
He was the boy she could never have.
Now, they're back in each other's orbit - with years of tension, heartbreak, and unfinished business burning beneath the surface.
This book intricately discusses the struggles of mental health that one faces and that is something which made this book one of my good reads of 2025! Here, our FMC was portrayed as a fierce and strong-willed woman instead of a damsel in distress and our MMC is just a perfect golden retriever and cinnamon roll hero who turned out to be dealing with his own demons and scars! It was such a heart wrenching scene to see our FMC conquer and fight with his own demons by the end of this book!
Everything about this book felt so warm and touching. This is a second chance romance where both of them have a crush on each other for quite a long time now and God! the pining, the yearning I couldn't get enough of it. They were written so well that I could feel it in my bones
the double POV was just the chef's kiss!
Sadie is our free - spirited and strong FMC and she instantly became one of my favourite FMCs of all time! She teaches us here that love is all about actions and being present! It's the little things that matter! You don't need someone who tells you I love you numerous times a day but someone who actually chooses you everyday and every second! Falling in love is a coincidence but staying in love is a choice!
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves these tropes:
1. best friend's brother
2. anxiety representation
3. forced proximity
4. second chance romance
5. dual POV
July 24, 2025
"Because sometimes what you need isn't someone to talk you out of the storm. Sometimes you just need someone to sit with you in it."
National Park exploration ✔️
First loves - second chance ✔️
Mental Health Rep - MMC ✔️
Forced Proximity ✔️
Road Trip Vibes ✔️
Quirky Banter ✔️
This is Katie's DEBUT!? Incredible!
This entire book takes place within Zion National Park, and let me tell you Katie's concept of writing a series based on the southern Utah national parks makes my heart so giddy.
As a huge lover of all things national parks, and a heart for wide open spaces & exploring this book spoke deep to my soul. Wes and Sadie are childhood best friends who stop talking for years after a moment was shared that left them book heartbroken. Forced to reconnect for her best friend's wedding, Wes' sister, everything bubbles to the surface. Everything, including Wes' anxiety. The anxiety that only Sadie has ever been able to calm. The connection these two characters have is so incredibly sweet & timeless at the same time.
Wes & Sadie, and the entire Taylor family, are so authentic and relatable. There were countless times I just wanted to reach through the pages and hug Wes. This man's heart, precious! The journey he takes leaves you in awe of his strength to conquer his personal demons to be the man he's always wanted to be. Sadie, oh man I want to be her! She travels the country in her adorable Indigo Skoolie working as a graphic designer hoping to nail down her dream job, working with the national parks. Umm yes please! Sadie is all sunshine and persistence. I love her! The way she can read Wes is the exact connection timeless love stories are written about. It's beautiful.
Katie's imagery draws you in and makes you feel like you are sitting right there in the middle of Zion's red rocks, monsoons, and stunning saguaros. Katie's writing is immensely addictive. I can't wait for the rest of the books in this series and to have more time with the Taylor family!
Thank you so much Katie enough for letting me read this eARC. This book is a true treasure and I absolutely adored it!
National Park exploration ✔️
First loves - second chance ✔️
Mental Health Rep - MMC ✔️
Forced Proximity ✔️
Road Trip Vibes ✔️
Quirky Banter ✔️
This is Katie's DEBUT!? Incredible!
This entire book takes place within Zion National Park, and let me tell you Katie's concept of writing a series based on the southern Utah national parks makes my heart so giddy.
As a huge lover of all things national parks, and a heart for wide open spaces & exploring this book spoke deep to my soul. Wes and Sadie are childhood best friends who stop talking for years after a moment was shared that left them book heartbroken. Forced to reconnect for her best friend's wedding, Wes' sister, everything bubbles to the surface. Everything, including Wes' anxiety. The anxiety that only Sadie has ever been able to calm. The connection these two characters have is so incredibly sweet & timeless at the same time.
Wes & Sadie, and the entire Taylor family, are so authentic and relatable. There were countless times I just wanted to reach through the pages and hug Wes. This man's heart, precious! The journey he takes leaves you in awe of his strength to conquer his personal demons to be the man he's always wanted to be. Sadie, oh man I want to be her! She travels the country in her adorable Indigo Skoolie working as a graphic designer hoping to nail down her dream job, working with the national parks. Umm yes please! Sadie is all sunshine and persistence. I love her! The way she can read Wes is the exact connection timeless love stories are written about. It's beautiful.
Katie's imagery draws you in and makes you feel like you are sitting right there in the middle of Zion's red rocks, monsoons, and stunning saguaros. Katie's writing is immensely addictive. I can't wait for the rest of the books in this series and to have more time with the Taylor family!
Thank you so much Katie enough for letting me read this eARC. This book is a true treasure and I absolutely adored it!
October 4, 2025
Wowwwww, there are no words to describe how much I loved this book. I am a sucker for an amazing cover and this one got me hook, line and sinker. Not to mention Zion is one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited.
This is the first book in The Big Five series. It focuses on our two main characters Wes and Sadie.
Tropes
🧡 Best friends brother
🧡 Second chance
🧡 anxiety rep mmc
🧡 it’s always been you
🧡 Miscommunication
🧡 National Park
Wes and Sadie have been drawn to one another since they were 15 years old. Their relationship was forbidden because Wes is Sadie’s best friend’s brother (Isla). The two reconnect during Islas wedding weekend. They try so hard to fight their feelings for one another, but once they do they can’t stop.
Wes had some anxiety issues that really hinder the progression of their relationship and at times makes it very hard to sympathize with him. He is constantly worried about everyone else and not thinking of his own happiness.
Sadie is an independent woman, who is kind of tired of running through life by herself. She lives in her renovated school bus and travels around to various National Parks. During the wedding weekend, Sadie realizes that she wants Wes to follow her and they can create a life together. Wes’ anxiety almost prevents him from giving their relationship another chance, but after getting a stern kick in the ass from Isla, he knows what he wants and it’s Sadie.
I was obsessed with this book and cannot wait to continue the series as they come out.
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2🌶️🌶️
This is the first book in The Big Five series. It focuses on our two main characters Wes and Sadie.
Tropes
🧡 Best friends brother
🧡 Second chance
🧡 anxiety rep mmc
🧡 it’s always been you
🧡 Miscommunication
🧡 National Park
Wes and Sadie have been drawn to one another since they were 15 years old. Their relationship was forbidden because Wes is Sadie’s best friend’s brother (Isla). The two reconnect during Islas wedding weekend. They try so hard to fight their feelings for one another, but once they do they can’t stop.
Wes had some anxiety issues that really hinder the progression of their relationship and at times makes it very hard to sympathize with him. He is constantly worried about everyone else and not thinking of his own happiness.
Sadie is an independent woman, who is kind of tired of running through life by herself. She lives in her renovated school bus and travels around to various National Parks. During the wedding weekend, Sadie realizes that she wants Wes to follow her and they can create a life together. Wes’ anxiety almost prevents him from giving their relationship another chance, but after getting a stern kick in the ass from Isla, he knows what he wants and it’s Sadie.
I was obsessed with this book and cannot wait to continue the series as they come out.
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2🌶️🌶️
August 3, 2025
Easily a 5-star read. I gobbled this one up! I personally really loved the anxiety/mental health rep in this story. I unfortunately can relate to the MMC with this, and how debilitating it can be at times—the fear of making the wrong decision, disappointing those you love, and how your mind constantly can hyper-focus on these things.
Wes’ love & adoration for Sadie was precious though. He was so sweet, he just had a hard time showing it all the time, or putting those feelings out in the right words. His timing couldn’t be worse, but Sadie truly is his perfect counterpart. She sees him underneath it all. She loves him through it, and brings balance and peace to his world. I am obsessed with their love story & honestly can’t wait to read it again. There are so many swoony lines. I had moments where I wanted to cry for them, where I was giggling and kicking my feet, where I was blushing, and then where I was smiling ear to ear uncontrollably. This was raw, and real, and ultimately the sweetest second chance journey to true love. There were moments where I felt like I knew how it’d play out, and I was wrong & pleasantly surprised every time. I also LOVED how the Epilogue wrapped it all up. It was perfect!
I can’t believe this is a debut novel. What talent Katie has for storytelling such a beautifully emotional journey like this one. Can’t wait to read more from her!
Wes’ love & adoration for Sadie was precious though. He was so sweet, he just had a hard time showing it all the time, or putting those feelings out in the right words. His timing couldn’t be worse, but Sadie truly is his perfect counterpart. She sees him underneath it all. She loves him through it, and brings balance and peace to his world. I am obsessed with their love story & honestly can’t wait to read it again. There are so many swoony lines. I had moments where I wanted to cry for them, where I was giggling and kicking my feet, where I was blushing, and then where I was smiling ear to ear uncontrollably. This was raw, and real, and ultimately the sweetest second chance journey to true love. There were moments where I felt like I knew how it’d play out, and I was wrong & pleasantly surprised every time. I also LOVED how the Epilogue wrapped it all up. It was perfect!
I can’t believe this is a debut novel. What talent Katie has for storytelling such a beautifully emotional journey like this one. Can’t wait to read more from her!
August 29, 2025
✨Thank you to Katie West for the advanced copy of Always Have, Always Will!
Rating: 3.75⭐️/5⭐️ (rounded up to 4⭐️)
Spice: 2🌶/5🌶
Read if you like:
• Childhood friends to lovers
• Best friend’s brother
• Opposites attract
This was such a sweet and heartwarming debut! I loved the tropes, the summer wedding setting, and how everything tied together!
One of the things that really impressed me was the writing. For a debut novel, the prose was so smooth and easy to follow. It flowed beautifully and had that light, engaging quality that kept me turning the pages. Honestly, I didn’t expect to be wowed by the writing style this much from a first book, it was such a pleasant surprise!
Sadie was such a fun main character to follow. She just radiates that “main character energy”. Strong, independent, and so easy to root for. I adored her confidence and the way she handled herself throughout the story. Her chemistry with Wes was undeniable, and every interaction between them had me smiling like an idiot!
However, I did struggle a bit with Wes as a character. I wanted him to be stronger, more decisive, and less frustrating at times. The push and pull between him and Sadie dragged a little for me.
But what really shone for me (besides the romance) was the family and friendship aspect. I loved how those dynamics weren’t just in the background but actually felt meaningful to the story. It made everything feel more grounded and wholesome!
Overall, Always Have, Always Will was such a cute, summery romance that made me smile so many times! A very promising debut, I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for what Katie West writes next!
Rating: 3.75⭐️/5⭐️ (rounded up to 4⭐️)
Spice: 2🌶/5🌶
Read if you like:
• Childhood friends to lovers
• Best friend’s brother
• Opposites attract
This was such a sweet and heartwarming debut! I loved the tropes, the summer wedding setting, and how everything tied together!
One of the things that really impressed me was the writing. For a debut novel, the prose was so smooth and easy to follow. It flowed beautifully and had that light, engaging quality that kept me turning the pages. Honestly, I didn’t expect to be wowed by the writing style this much from a first book, it was such a pleasant surprise!
Sadie was such a fun main character to follow. She just radiates that “main character energy”. Strong, independent, and so easy to root for. I adored her confidence and the way she handled herself throughout the story. Her chemistry with Wes was undeniable, and every interaction between them had me smiling like an idiot!
However, I did struggle a bit with Wes as a character. I wanted him to be stronger, more decisive, and less frustrating at times. The push and pull between him and Sadie dragged a little for me.
But what really shone for me (besides the romance) was the family and friendship aspect. I loved how those dynamics weren’t just in the background but actually felt meaningful to the story. It made everything feel more grounded and wholesome!
Overall, Always Have, Always Will was such a cute, summery romance that made me smile so many times! A very promising debut, I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for what Katie West writes next!
December 23, 2025
I received an ARC for Plan on Me. So I decided to start from the beginning... and I'm so glad I did.
This is Sadie and Wes's story...
I loved this book.its such a beautiful story. Wes has anxiety and he gets in his head
Sadie is a whirlwind away on the go. Always looking for an adventure. She travels the world in her bus. She is back in town for her best friends wedding. Wes's sister.
Sadie and Wes were best friends. They both always had feeling for each other. But after Wes let his anxiety get the better if hi. They lose touch no back together they learn they never stopped loving each other. They are so sweet together I love they were always their for each other. And Let each other have their moments.
Can't wait for book 2.
This is Sadie and Wes's story...
I loved this book.its such a beautiful story. Wes has anxiety and he gets in his head
Sadie is a whirlwind away on the go. Always looking for an adventure. She travels the world in her bus. She is back in town for her best friends wedding. Wes's sister.
Sadie and Wes were best friends. They both always had feeling for each other. But after Wes let his anxiety get the better if hi. They lose touch no back together they learn they never stopped loving each other. They are so sweet together I love they were always their for each other. And Let each other have their moments.
Can't wait for book 2.
August 30, 2025
I read this debut in one sitting and then read it again! The setting was perfection - nothing beats the smell of a wet desert. The characters were real - and I loved them for it.
This book made me smile, it made me miss the Southwest, and it made me want to get an Indigo. I'm so excited to see where the next books take us!
This book made me smile, it made me miss the Southwest, and it made me want to get an Indigo. I'm so excited to see where the next books take us!
October 25, 2025
Always Have, Always Will
"You're not broken, Wes. You're human"
To understand someone with anxiety, to accept them as they are is the PUREST form of love.
Second chance, childhood romance.
I can't even give you a recap of the book, I need you to just read it again.
take the chance. don't run from love. be a little sassy.
"You're not broken, Wes. You're human"
To understand someone with anxiety, to accept them as they are is the PUREST form of love.
Second chance, childhood romance.
I can't even give you a recap of the book, I need you to just read it again.
take the chance. don't run from love. be a little sassy.
August 20, 2025
Good read.
November 20, 2025
"Because sometimes what you need isn't someone to talk you of the storm.
Sometimes you just need someone to sit with you in it."
I literally added this book to my cart from an indie bookshop I was buying from on a whim because I wanted free shipping lol. Well HOT DAMN best impulse decision because this book surprised the pants off me in the best way.
I had never heard of Katie's books before & I honestly just liked the cover art (because I do judge books by their covers). Well I ATE this book up! I truly enjoyed everything about Sadie & Wes's story and it just felt like it was written so smartly. It felt genuine in how Wes's severe anxiety could really impact someone's decisions/lifestyle. Sadie in her free spirited way of "adventuring" with the underlying fear of settling down alone. There was spicy & everything nice in between. Witty, fun banter through the characters dialogue, 1 of my favs was supporting character wild girlie Wren~
"I like my men like I like my slot machines, Hot broken & unpredictable to keep me coming back"
The way I chorttled reading that lol.
I also personally have never visited Utah before and Katie makes me want to go stat!! I felt like I could really picture the scenes with how Katie described each place/setting. And as a hiking girlie the adventure itch is real!
And then the book just has all the best morsels of goodness with some fav tropes & themes:
Best friends brother
found family
She fell first, he fell harder
2nd chance romance
Slow burn
Dealing with anxiety & social pressures
HANDS DOWN I'm officially a KW fan and was so thrilled when the timing just worked out perfectly & I recv'd an ARC of book 2 of this series! So excited to continue on with Love You, Mean It. Literally cant wait to devour this series!!
Sometimes you just need someone to sit with you in it."
I literally added this book to my cart from an indie bookshop I was buying from on a whim because I wanted free shipping lol. Well HOT DAMN best impulse decision because this book surprised the pants off me in the best way.
I had never heard of Katie's books before & I honestly just liked the cover art (because I do judge books by their covers). Well I ATE this book up! I truly enjoyed everything about Sadie & Wes's story and it just felt like it was written so smartly. It felt genuine in how Wes's severe anxiety could really impact someone's decisions/lifestyle. Sadie in her free spirited way of "adventuring" with the underlying fear of settling down alone. There was spicy & everything nice in between. Witty, fun banter through the characters dialogue, 1 of my favs was supporting character wild girlie Wren~
"I like my men like I like my slot machines, Hot broken & unpredictable to keep me coming back"
The way I chorttled reading that lol.
I also personally have never visited Utah before and Katie makes me want to go stat!! I felt like I could really picture the scenes with how Katie described each place/setting. And as a hiking girlie the adventure itch is real!
And then the book just has all the best morsels of goodness with some fav tropes & themes:
Best friends brother
found family
She fell first, he fell harder
2nd chance romance
Slow burn
Dealing with anxiety & social pressures
HANDS DOWN I'm officially a KW fan and was so thrilled when the timing just worked out perfectly & I recv'd an ARC of book 2 of this series! So excited to continue on with Love You, Mean It. Literally cant wait to devour this series!!
October 13, 2025
I love that this story takes place in my home state, Utah. 🥰 Especially in Zion, which is one of the most beautiful places here!
This book was written beautifully and it was a great debut!! I am so excited to see what Katie does next! I absolutely loved this book, the story within, and the characters. Wes and Sadie were perfect and I loved them. They were real, raw, and faced hardships together.
Wes and Sadie are two childhood best friends who may have crossed the friendship line a long time ago. They used to be inseparable but now they are distant. Sadie comes back to town for her best friend’s wedding, who happens to be Wes’ little sister. Can they fix things? 👀
This book was written beautifully and it was a great debut!! I am so excited to see what Katie does next! I absolutely loved this book, the story within, and the characters. Wes and Sadie were perfect and I loved them. They were real, raw, and faced hardships together.
Wes and Sadie are two childhood best friends who may have crossed the friendship line a long time ago. They used to be inseparable but now they are distant. Sadie comes back to town for her best friend’s wedding, who happens to be Wes’ little sister. Can they fix things? 👀
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