What do you think?
Rate this book
Willowbrook #1
Crash
A driven young woman loses her direction…
Quynh Le always puts work first and is used to being alone. She has no social life, no family, no relationship… unless you count her cranky cat. When she’s unexpectedly fired from her job as a nurse practitioner, she feels lost and adrift. A cryptic text from her stepsister about her estranged father’s failing health has her returning to the small town of Willowbrook—the place that tore her family apart twenty-six years ago.
A grumpy mechanic finds more than he bargained for…
Griffin Kennedy likes his life the way it is—no drama, no complications, definitely no women. He doesn’t want anybody messing with the stability he’s found, especially not the naïve, cheerful woman whose car breaks down just outside of town. But when he realizes Quynh has no place to stay, he strikes a deal to let her stay in the studio apartment above his shop in exchange for her help as his secretary while she’s visiting her father.
When convenience gives way to craving, the spark between these two opposites develops into a fiery affair. Can two very independent people let down their walls long enough to fall in love?
Opposites attract in this small town grumpy/sunshine romance from author Lily Anh Nam. Sweet and spicy—CRASH is all about healing old wounds and finding new direction.
Quynh Le always puts work first and is used to being alone. She has no social life, no family, no relationship… unless you count her cranky cat. When she’s unexpectedly fired from her job as a nurse practitioner, she feels lost and adrift. A cryptic text from her stepsister about her estranged father’s failing health has her returning to the small town of Willowbrook—the place that tore her family apart twenty-six years ago.
A grumpy mechanic finds more than he bargained for…
Griffin Kennedy likes his life the way it is—no drama, no complications, definitely no women. He doesn’t want anybody messing with the stability he’s found, especially not the naïve, cheerful woman whose car breaks down just outside of town. But when he realizes Quynh has no place to stay, he strikes a deal to let her stay in the studio apartment above his shop in exchange for her help as his secretary while she’s visiting her father.
When convenience gives way to craving, the spark between these two opposites develops into a fiery affair. Can two very independent people let down their walls long enough to fall in love?
Opposites attract in this small town grumpy/sunshine romance from author Lily Anh Nam. Sweet and spicy—CRASH is all about healing old wounds and finding new direction.
- GenresRomance
446 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2025
About the author
Lily Anh Nam
3 books14 followersLily Anh Nam is an Asian American contemporary romance author. She lives in a quiet New England town with her family and her feline writing companions. Her cats are often featured in her stories. Though she grew up on a tropical island, her favorite season is fall. Caramel lattes and mint chocolates keep her running. When not writing, Lily likes to spend time with her family. She rarely leaves the house without bribery.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars
I want to thank the author for the opportunity to read ARC for my honest review!
Breakdowns in both sense of the word leads Quynh to a new way of life where she can finally feel herself breathe for the first time. This book is filled with passion, emotional healing, and self discovery.
✨Tropes✨
- Small Town
- Damsel In Distress
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Mechanic MMC
- Burnt Out NP MFC
- Forced Proximity
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
He’s always hungry 😜
MFC - Quynh 📚 🐈
He was the desperate thunderstorm during a drought, providing the life-giving hydration to a wilted flower like her.
MMC - Griffin 🛻 🐕
It was like his life was dull and colorless until she came into the scene, bringing with her all the colors of the rainbow and the heat of the sunshine.
Overall Thoughts:
Quynh was a very relatable character! And we can’t forget about Pickles, her grouchy cat! And Griffin was a lovable grump with his goofy dog, Rover. We always love side kick pets! I loved these characters interactions, they felt actually realistic! Though I wish we got more in depth of them connecting not just in a physical way.
I teared up twice reading this! Not only was the main characters story beautiful and emotional but Quynh’s parents past we got to learn was heartbreaking.
The reason I took a star off was because there was a lot of repeating phrases and thoughts. Even the spice was kind of boring after a bit. But he was a good man putting her first so we love that. 🤣
But overall the book was moving and real and I enjoyed it, read it in one sitting!
I want to thank the author for the opportunity to read ARC for my honest review!
Breakdowns in both sense of the word leads Quynh to a new way of life where she can finally feel herself breathe for the first time. This book is filled with passion, emotional healing, and self discovery.
✨Tropes✨
- Small Town
- Damsel In Distress
- Grumpy/Sunshine
- Mechanic MMC
- Burnt Out NP MFC
- Forced Proximity
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
He’s always hungry 😜
MFC - Quynh 📚 🐈
He was the desperate thunderstorm during a drought, providing the life-giving hydration to a wilted flower like her.
MMC - Griffin 🛻 🐕
It was like his life was dull and colorless until she came into the scene, bringing with her all the colors of the rainbow and the heat of the sunshine.
Overall Thoughts:
Quynh was a very relatable character! And we can’t forget about Pickles, her grouchy cat! And Griffin was a lovable grump with his goofy dog, Rover. We always love side kick pets! I loved these characters interactions, they felt actually realistic! Though I wish we got more in depth of them connecting not just in a physical way.
I teared up twice reading this! Not only was the main characters story beautiful and emotional but Quynh’s parents past we got to learn was heartbreaking.
The reason I took a star off was because there was a lot of repeating phrases and thoughts. Even the spice was kind of boring after a bit. But he was a good man putting her first so we love that. 🤣
But overall the book was moving and real and I enjoyed it, read it in one sitting!
September 23, 2025
This story feels real because of the rawness in how both the FMC and MMC’s childhoods and pasts shaped the people they are today. Both grew up in unfavorable conditions, and the way their struggles linger into adulthood was written with honesty.
I also only learned through this book that interracial marriage was only legalized in the US in the 1960s, which ruined not just the FMC’s life but her mother’s too. As someone who has read Dust Child and The Mountains Sing, I could connect with her mother’s struggles as an immigrant—the horror and ugliness of war shaping generations after.
Another part I appreciated is that neither FMC nor MMC are wealthy. They’re just ordinary people. That gave their story a layer of relatability.
The romance, however, leaned heavily into the physical side. It was definitely spicy, similar to other ARCs I’ve read but for me, the love-making took up too much space in the story. Personally, I prefer when intimacy is woven in as a complement to the main narrative, rather than becoming the central anchor.
That being said, there were moments that felt repetitive—like the constant mentions of job loss, her mother’s death, her employer, or her nurse routine. Those sections dragged a bit for me and made me skim at times.
Overall, a heartfelt and layered romance that mixes history, culture, and ordinary struggles, though I wish the balance between intimacy and storytelling had leaned more toward the latter.
Thanks to Lily's team for the ARC! This review is voluntary and reflects my own thoughts.
I also only learned through this book that interracial marriage was only legalized in the US in the 1960s, which ruined not just the FMC’s life but her mother’s too. As someone who has read Dust Child and The Mountains Sing, I could connect with her mother’s struggles as an immigrant—the horror and ugliness of war shaping generations after.
Another part I appreciated is that neither FMC nor MMC are wealthy. They’re just ordinary people. That gave their story a layer of relatability.
The romance, however, leaned heavily into the physical side. It was definitely spicy, similar to other ARCs I’ve read but for me, the love-making took up too much space in the story. Personally, I prefer when intimacy is woven in as a complement to the main narrative, rather than becoming the central anchor.
That being said, there were moments that felt repetitive—like the constant mentions of job loss, her mother’s death, her employer, or her nurse routine. Those sections dragged a bit for me and made me skim at times.
Overall, a heartfelt and layered romance that mixes history, culture, and ordinary struggles, though I wish the balance between intimacy and storytelling had leaned more toward the latter.
Thanks to Lily's team for the ARC! This review is voluntary and reflects my own thoughts.
October 5, 2025
Quynh is "a driven woman who loses her direction." She was a nurse practitioner who was let go when the company she worked for had to make cuts. Her boss was murdered and her stepsister sent her a message to tell her father is dying. Quynh was experiencing one speed bump after another. Can make you feel like the world is crashing down upon you. Quynh is on her way to see her father when her car breaks down and she needs a tow.
Griffin comes to rescue the damsel in distress. Griffin offers Quynh a place to stay as there are no hotels. ( Im thinking - what a great guy.) Griffin and Quynh obviously have a connection. Griffin was in need of a secretary, and Quynh offered to help. But falling Griffin was not a part of her plan. She met her father and learned the truth, but her stepsister wants her to stay away.
The storyline is great. Love story is almost surreal. But the author keeps back tracking the characters' lives. Feels like parts are constant repeat. I felt Quyhn was a little bit dramatic. A woman who puts her sexual needs ahead and forgets she has a cat who has been her emotional support and is being ignored. She does deserve a chance with a great guy, especially since he drove eight hours for her.The moral of the story is that you can change the past. Creating a new life for yourself isn't all that bad.
Griffin comes to rescue the damsel in distress. Griffin offers Quynh a place to stay as there are no hotels. ( Im thinking - what a great guy.) Griffin and Quynh obviously have a connection. Griffin was in need of a secretary, and Quynh offered to help. But falling Griffin was not a part of her plan. She met her father and learned the truth, but her stepsister wants her to stay away.
The storyline is great. Love story is almost surreal. But the author keeps back tracking the characters' lives. Feels like parts are constant repeat. I felt Quyhn was a little bit dramatic. A woman who puts her sexual needs ahead and forgets she has a cat who has been her emotional support and is being ignored. She does deserve a chance with a great guy, especially since he drove eight hours for her.The moral of the story is that you can change the past. Creating a new life for yourself isn't all that bad.
September 26, 2025
★★★★½ (4.5 stars)
Heartwarming, comforting, and completely adorable.
This small-town romance was exactly what I needed—a total palate cleanser that left me smiling and swooning over Griffin and Quynh. I devoured their story in one sitting!
Griffin is the ultimate grumpy mechanic with a heart of gold. He’s got a dark past, but beneath the rough exterior is a caring, quietly protective man who cooks like a Michelin-star chef. Yes, please! Quynh, on the other hand, is ambitious and driven, though she finds herself a little lost. She’s soft-hearted, loves her coffee and spicy romance books (relatable queen), and has this inner strength that shines through every page.
Together? They’re magic. The chemistry is so natural, the banter sweet with just enough bite, and the emotional depth is beautifully done. This book is about healing, finding your direction, and learning to open your heart again even when it's been bruised by the past.
If you're looking for a feel-good romance with a comforting small-town setting, lovable characters, and the perfect mix of sweetness and depth—this one’s for you.
Heartwarming, comforting, and completely adorable.
This small-town romance was exactly what I needed—a total palate cleanser that left me smiling and swooning over Griffin and Quynh. I devoured their story in one sitting!
Griffin is the ultimate grumpy mechanic with a heart of gold. He’s got a dark past, but beneath the rough exterior is a caring, quietly protective man who cooks like a Michelin-star chef. Yes, please! Quynh, on the other hand, is ambitious and driven, though she finds herself a little lost. She’s soft-hearted, loves her coffee and spicy romance books (relatable queen), and has this inner strength that shines through every page.
Together? They’re magic. The chemistry is so natural, the banter sweet with just enough bite, and the emotional depth is beautifully done. This book is about healing, finding your direction, and learning to open your heart again even when it's been bruised by the past.
If you're looking for a feel-good romance with a comforting small-town setting, lovable characters, and the perfect mix of sweetness and depth—this one’s for you.
September 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Crash by Lily Anh Nam, a sweet small-town romance that hits all the cozy, familiar tropes. Quynh, a nurse practitioner whose life has been all work and no play (relatable), ends up stranded in her hometown after her car breaks down. Enter Griffin, the grumpy mechanic who reluctantly offers her a place to stay above his shop (swoon). Forced proximity + sunshine vs. grump = instant chemistry.
I enjoyed Quynh’s emotional journey, especially her struggles with family and identity. Griffin’s gruff exterior slowly giving way was satisfying, and their romance grew in a tender way. The small-town setting added a cozy backdrop, and the banter kept things fun.
My only drawback was that it’s written in third person, which made it harder for me to fully connect with the characters.
Overall, this is a warm and comforting read with plenty of heart. Perfect if you’re in the mood for small-town vibes, healing family drama, and a classic grumpy/sunshine pairing.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Crash by Lily Anh Nam, a sweet small-town romance that hits all the cozy, familiar tropes. Quynh, a nurse practitioner whose life has been all work and no play (relatable), ends up stranded in her hometown after her car breaks down. Enter Griffin, the grumpy mechanic who reluctantly offers her a place to stay above his shop (swoon). Forced proximity + sunshine vs. grump = instant chemistry.
I enjoyed Quynh’s emotional journey, especially her struggles with family and identity. Griffin’s gruff exterior slowly giving way was satisfying, and their romance grew in a tender way. The small-town setting added a cozy backdrop, and the banter kept things fun.
My only drawback was that it’s written in third person, which made it harder for me to fully connect with the characters.
Overall, this is a warm and comforting read with plenty of heart. Perfect if you’re in the mood for small-town vibes, healing family drama, and a classic grumpy/sunshine pairing.
September 29, 2025
Crash was a pretty interesting story about a young woman named Quynh. She just lost her job as a nurse practitioner and received a text message from her estranged step sister that her father is ill. As she is heading to her home town to see him, her car breakdown and she has to call for help. The man who shows up to assist, Griffin, sounds like the biggest anti social grump. But he does grow on me by the end. The story was spicier than I was expecting. I do read a lot of spice, but the cover was just so cutesy and sweet looking that I didn't expect it.
I do feel like the plot was a little monotonous. There wasn't too much happening and it was hard to keep my attention. I also think that this story would work a little better if it wasn't in third person. This story has some rawness and vulnerability to it and I think being in first person would allow for a better connection with the characters to really feel their emotions better.
The story is still a great read though and I would still recommend it if you're looking for a small town, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity story.
I do feel like the plot was a little monotonous. There wasn't too much happening and it was hard to keep my attention. I also think that this story would work a little better if it wasn't in third person. This story has some rawness and vulnerability to it and I think being in first person would allow for a better connection with the characters to really feel their emotions better.
The story is still a great read though and I would still recommend it if you're looking for a small town, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity story.
October 1, 2025
Oh Lily, you did it again! You wrote absolutely sweet story with spice and made me feel a little bit happines! I am so happy that i got to read this story and forget the world for a while. You are amazing writer and i can’t wait more from you!
And now about the book! While it made feel good, there were times when i cryed and few times were i yelled at Quynh and Ruth, i yelled a lot at Ruth. She was a b***h!
Qyunh was lovable character, but she did few stupid things and thats why i yelled at her. Her cat, what a cutie! And that name, Pickels, ADORABLE!
Griffin, i drooled so much. He is grumpy, hot, sweet and oh so posessive, yummy all the way! And he had a dog, Rover, i love that!
The spice here was so GOOD! So so good *drooling*
Willowbrooks seemed like a place that i would love to live! There is a bookstore(a must) and that coffee place, Sip happens, absolutely amazing name! So i think i’m gonna take my dog and we will be living there, maybe i can get Griffin for myself too
And now about the book! While it made feel good, there were times when i cryed and few times were i yelled at Quynh and Ruth, i yelled a lot at Ruth. She was a b***h!
Qyunh was lovable character, but she did few stupid things and thats why i yelled at her. Her cat, what a cutie! And that name, Pickels, ADORABLE!
Griffin, i drooled so much. He is grumpy, hot, sweet and oh so posessive, yummy all the way! And he had a dog, Rover, i love that!
The spice here was so GOOD! So so good *drooling*
Willowbrooks seemed like a place that i would love to live! There is a bookstore(a must) and that coffee place, Sip happens, absolutely amazing name! So i think i’m gonna take my dog and we will be living there, maybe i can get Griffin for myself too
September 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! It was easy to get into, and the main characters, Quynh and Griffin, were absolutely lovely together. Their chemistry was strong, and I often found myself smiling at their cute moments.
Quynh is independent but also carries a quiet vulnerability. There’s a lonely sadness about her, yet an undeniable inner strength—she’s always had to rely on herself. She was merely existing rather than truly living, until she returns to Willowbrook, the small town where she was born and where her father still lives.
Griffin, too, has his own sadness and loneliness, though his is self-imposed. With his grumpy, “don’t bother me” demeanor, he keeps people at arm’s length. But when he meets Quynh, everything shifts. He’s immediately drawn to her, which unsettles him because it’s so unlike him.
The development of their relationship is nicely paced, and I was rooting for them the entire way through.
A sweet, easy-to-read small-town romance that will warm your heart.
Thank you to the author for the ARC—this is my honest review.
Quynh is independent but also carries a quiet vulnerability. There’s a lonely sadness about her, yet an undeniable inner strength—she’s always had to rely on herself. She was merely existing rather than truly living, until she returns to Willowbrook, the small town where she was born and where her father still lives.
Griffin, too, has his own sadness and loneliness, though his is self-imposed. With his grumpy, “don’t bother me” demeanor, he keeps people at arm’s length. But when he meets Quynh, everything shifts. He’s immediately drawn to her, which unsettles him because it’s so unlike him.
The development of their relationship is nicely paced, and I was rooting for them the entire way through.
A sweet, easy-to-read small-town romance that will warm your heart.
Thank you to the author for the ARC—this is my honest review.
April 30, 2026
Quynh Le is going through it by the time she makes it to Willowbrook. A former nurse practitioner, she endured multiple layers of trauma after losing her job, discovering her boss's murder, and realizing her estranged father is passing. Her car breaks down on the way and it seems like the icing to a very unfortunate series of events, until she meets Griffin.
The slightly grumpy but incredibly sweet auto mechanic, he gives her a place to stay in exchange for helping around the shop. What turns into a good deed unfolds into way more than Quynh could have imagined, when he steps up to support her during her rough moments. Both characters came from complicated backgrounds, but made the most of their situations while finding romance with each other. I loved how Griffin showed up for her, and how the small town became the peace she never knew she needed.
The slightly grumpy but incredibly sweet auto mechanic, he gives her a place to stay in exchange for helping around the shop. What turns into a good deed unfolds into way more than Quynh could have imagined, when he steps up to support her during her rough moments. Both characters came from complicated backgrounds, but made the most of their situations while finding romance with each other. I loved how Griffin showed up for her, and how the small town became the peace she never knew she needed.
September 29, 2025
This book was raw, real, and emotional with chemistry and connection that was off the charts!
Quynh and Griffin were perfect together, she’s normally a ray of sunshine but she’s turned a ‘damsel in distress’ when her car breaks down as she’s on her way back to the small little town on Willowbrook. Enter our grumpy mechanic who saves her by not only fixing her car but offering her a place to stay. Both of the MCs are very career driven (Q has just been fired from her position as a NP), as Griffin offers her a place to stay she manages to become his basically impromptu secretly around the shop and it just kicks off!
You get insta attraction, with again, off the charts chemistry! I also enjoyed the complexity of the relationship she was trying to mend with her estranged (health declining) father and not so nice stepsister.
The plots there; it flows well, and the pace is set up right for the read!
I really enjoyed this read and I’d very much recommend
Quynh and Griffin were perfect together, she’s normally a ray of sunshine but she’s turned a ‘damsel in distress’ when her car breaks down as she’s on her way back to the small little town on Willowbrook. Enter our grumpy mechanic who saves her by not only fixing her car but offering her a place to stay. Both of the MCs are very career driven (Q has just been fired from her position as a NP), as Griffin offers her a place to stay she manages to become his basically impromptu secretly around the shop and it just kicks off!
You get insta attraction, with again, off the charts chemistry! I also enjoyed the complexity of the relationship she was trying to mend with her estranged (health declining) father and not so nice stepsister.
The plots there; it flows well, and the pace is set up right for the read!
I really enjoyed this read and I’d very much recommend
Read
May 10, 2026Small town romance is a trope i really love and enjoy, and this book truly hit the spot for me!
The grumpy x sunshine dynamic was so much fun and the storyline itself was very well written. I especially loved seeing Quynh slowly find herself again and rediscover what she truly loves doing. As someone who is still searching for their own place in life, this part really touched me and honestly gave me hope for myself too.
The romance itself moved a little fast at times, but i still really enjoyed the connection between the characters. I also loved learning more about the family dynamics and background stories throughout the book.
Overall this was such a cozy and emotional small town romance and i can’t wait to start Crave next!
The grumpy x sunshine dynamic was so much fun and the storyline itself was very well written. I especially loved seeing Quynh slowly find herself again and rediscover what she truly loves doing. As someone who is still searching for their own place in life, this part really touched me and honestly gave me hope for myself too.
The romance itself moved a little fast at times, but i still really enjoyed the connection between the characters. I also loved learning more about the family dynamics and background stories throughout the book.
Overall this was such a cozy and emotional small town romance and i can’t wait to start Crave next!
September 10, 2025
4⭐️Sizzling romance!!! Such a great read!!! When travel leads to unexpected car trouble for Quynh (naive cheerful FMC). She meets Griffin, the small town grumpy mechanic.
This grumpy mechanic develops a soft spot for the damsel in distress.
When he realizes Quynh has no place to stay, he strikes a deal to let her stay in the studio apartment above his shop in exchange for her help as his secretary while she’s visiting her terminally ill father.
Eventually a contractional agreement becomes yearning ,the spark between these two polar opposites develops into a fiery affair.
The book is well written; kept me vested in the plot and the progression of their relationship!!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It was entertaining and emotional. Highly recommend adding this to your TBR. Thank you Lily Anh Nam! For the opportunity to read this advanced readers copy.❤️
Tropes Include:
🤬Grumpy MMC
☀️Sunshine FMC
👀 force proximity
🌶️Spicy connection
🏡Small Town romance
🧑🧒Estranged Family
🤫Family Secrets
This grumpy mechanic develops a soft spot for the damsel in distress.
When he realizes Quynh has no place to stay, he strikes a deal to let her stay in the studio apartment above his shop in exchange for her help as his secretary while she’s visiting her terminally ill father.
Eventually a contractional agreement becomes yearning ,the spark between these two polar opposites develops into a fiery affair.
The book is well written; kept me vested in the plot and the progression of their relationship!!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. It was entertaining and emotional. Highly recommend adding this to your TBR. Thank you Lily Anh Nam! For the opportunity to read this advanced readers copy.❤️
Tropes Include:
🤬Grumpy MMC
☀️Sunshine FMC
👀 force proximity
🌶️Spicy connection
🏡Small Town romance
🧑🧒Estranged Family
🤫Family Secrets
September 16, 2025
Crash is the first installment in the Willowbrook series. Willowbrook is the town Quynh has to travel back to after getting news of her father’s terminal illness. Quynh becomes a damsel in distress when her car breaks down on her road trip back to Willowbrook. Insert Griffin the hot grumpy mechanic who rescues Quynh and gives her a place to stay while in town. These two had an instant attraction and insane chemistry from the beginning. I loved reading about these characters and seeing their love story unfold. Crash is a well written story of love and heartbreak with some family drama mixed in. I’m excited to read more from Lily in the future and see what else unfolds in Willowbrook.
September 23, 2025
This book wasn’t a waste of time
Things I loved:
✨Actually complex main characters that aren’t 20
✨pets (both a huge grumpy cat and a dog)
✨cozy lakeside small town setting
✨good spice
Things I struggled with
📚there was very little plot outside of the two mcs getting together (which I acknowledge is a bonus for some people) there was little to no depth to any of the story outside of the tension between the MCs
📚the author gave them an 18” hight difference and it never came up
All in all 3⭐️
Definitely heavier on the spice than on the plot. The couple was cute and it was refreshing to read something that wasn’t about twenty year olds.
Things I loved:
✨Actually complex main characters that aren’t 20
✨pets (both a huge grumpy cat and a dog)
✨cozy lakeside small town setting
✨good spice
Things I struggled with
📚there was very little plot outside of the two mcs getting together (which I acknowledge is a bonus for some people) there was little to no depth to any of the story outside of the tension between the MCs
📚the author gave them an 18” hight difference and it never came up
All in all 3⭐️
Definitely heavier on the spice than on the plot. The couple was cute and it was refreshing to read something that wasn’t about twenty year olds.
October 7, 2025
I really like small town romances, especially when there is a grumpy man! This was an adorable story and very heartfelt. Quynh moves back to her hometown after losing her job and finding out her stepfather is very sick. She does not have a great time when she arrives, when her car breaks down and she meets the grumpy auto shop owner! He does help her out with a place to stay though. Their bantering and teasing with each other was really amusing. Quynh seems to really start healing and does some self discovery. The smutty parts with Griffin were amazing and he just wants to take care of her. This story was just amazing and I highly recommend it.
September 4, 2025
This is a small town romance with a ton of ups and downs. Throughout the entire book, Quyen and Griffin had a palpable tension that never eased off. Through each of their trials and tribulations, they were brought closer together, and their feelings were getting harder to ignore. If you want a refreshing small town romance with chemistry, tears, and the fight for love, then this story is for you. I loved this book and everything about it. I have a feeling this is one I will continuously circle back to.
September 22, 2025
ARC Review
I finished this a couple days ago and needed to sit on it.
Griffin is the grumpiest grump I’ve ever read!!! But it was hard not love him and how much he loved Quynh (Quinn). While it took over the half to book to find out more about Griffins story - it was the turning point for me, in the best possible way.
Quynh was so all over the place - she needed to be grounded and Griffin did that for her. She had no idea how much she needed to feel love. With so much loss and heartbreak, Griffin was exactly what she needed.
Content warning: Addiction, death, suicide
I finished this a couple days ago and needed to sit on it.
Griffin is the grumpiest grump I’ve ever read!!! But it was hard not love him and how much he loved Quynh (Quinn). While it took over the half to book to find out more about Griffins story - it was the turning point for me, in the best possible way.
Quynh was so all over the place - she needed to be grounded and Griffin did that for her. She had no idea how much she needed to feel love. With so much loss and heartbreak, Griffin was exactly what she needed.
Content warning: Addiction, death, suicide
September 26, 2025
This is a well written story and has a way of pulling you in with some family drama, heartbreak and sweet moments.
Quyhn was a character that broke my heart at times, with her quiet strength and vulnerability. So use to relying on herself, she heads to Willowbrook when she gets news about her estranged father.
Griffin surrounds himself in loneliness, with his “leave me alone” attitude. When he meets Quyhn, it is like his whole world shifts. The attraction between them is cute and the chemistry is hot.
Quyhn was a character that broke my heart at times, with her quiet strength and vulnerability. So use to relying on herself, she heads to Willowbrook when she gets news about her estranged father.
Griffin surrounds himself in loneliness, with his “leave me alone” attitude. When he meets Quyhn, it is like his whole world shifts. The attraction between them is cute and the chemistry is hot.
September 26, 2025
This is the first installment of the series of the Willowbrook series! This story follows Griffen and Quynh!
Quynh learns of her father’s terminal illness and travels back to Willowbrook and has an accident and wrecks her car and that’s where Griffen enters the picture! Griffen is a hot grumpy af mechanic that gives Quynh a place to stay in town.
There is an instant attraction and chemistry with these two!
It’s a sizzling small town romance with plenty of tension and family drama!
You don’t want to miss this!
Quynh learns of her father’s terminal illness and travels back to Willowbrook and has an accident and wrecks her car and that’s where Griffen enters the picture! Griffen is a hot grumpy af mechanic that gives Quynh a place to stay in town.
There is an instant attraction and chemistry with these two!
It’s a sizzling small town romance with plenty of tension and family drama!
You don’t want to miss this!
October 30, 2025
If only every car breakdown led to such a happy ending! This small town, grumpy/sunshine romance was engaging and inspiring from start to finish. I thought it was well done, and I really enjoyed the premise as well as how things turned out. Oh, and I also loved the inclusion of their pets…afterall, every story is better with pets!
Thank you so much Lily for having as me as one of your arc readers! I can’t wait to see what comes next in the Willowbrook series. I do love a good small town romance.
Thank you so much Lily for having as me as one of your arc readers! I can’t wait to see what comes next in the Willowbrook series. I do love a good small town romance.
March 29, 2026
Short and heartfelt
packed an emotional punch.
Quynh deserved the world after everything she went through, and seeing her finally find happiness and a sense of belonging really stuck with me. I was rooting for her the whole time.
Meanwhile Griffin is out here being all grumpy and closed off... but once you realize he’s carrying a traumatic past too, it adds so much depth to his character. Watching him work through that and slowly open up after finding his person? That got me.
packed an emotional punch.
Quynh deserved the world after everything she went through, and seeing her finally find happiness and a sense of belonging really stuck with me. I was rooting for her the whole time.
Meanwhile Griffin is out here being all grumpy and closed off... but once you realize he’s carrying a traumatic past too, it adds so much depth to his character. Watching him work through that and slowly open up after finding his person? That got me.
September 26, 2025
Read if you like:
💕 contemporary
🏔️ small town
💕 dog daddy x cat mom
🏔️ forced proximity
💕 workplace romance
🏔️ opposites attract
💕 tension 🙂↔️
Omg imagine your car breaks down 😪 but it’s okay cause you call for a tow truck but instead of a tow truck it’s a grumpy mechanic that doesn’t look too happy?? But on the brightside! He’s hot ASF. Swoooon asf, Griffin def has that alpha daddy mind set and I’m here for it!
The tension between the Quynh and Griffin will having you ovulating 🤣 it was refreshing to read third person POV I think this author does a great job writing in third person!
Griffin is so alpha male and possessive, but like in a green flag type of way 🙂↔️ I think that him and Quynh are the perfect definition of opposites attract 🥹
💕 contemporary
🏔️ small town
💕 dog daddy x cat mom
🏔️ forced proximity
💕 workplace romance
🏔️ opposites attract
💕 tension 🙂↔️
Omg imagine your car breaks down 😪 but it’s okay cause you call for a tow truck but instead of a tow truck it’s a grumpy mechanic that doesn’t look too happy?? But on the brightside! He’s hot ASF. Swoooon asf, Griffin def has that alpha daddy mind set and I’m here for it!
The tension between the Quynh and Griffin will having you ovulating 🤣 it was refreshing to read third person POV I think this author does a great job writing in third person!
Griffin is so alpha male and possessive, but like in a green flag type of way 🙂↔️ I think that him and Quynh are the perfect definition of opposites attract 🥹
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2025
I absolutely adored this book, a sweet romance that will make you laugh and cry...
Opposites attract in this small town grumpy/sunshine romance from author Lily Anh Nam.
Sweet and spicy—CRASH is all about healing old wounds and finding new direction.
Tropes:
💛 Grumpy Sunshine
💛 Small Town Romance
💛 Damsel in Distress
💛 Workplace Romance
💛 Forced Proximity
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Thank you to Lily Anh Nam for the pleasure of reading your ARC... 🩷🩷🩷
Opposites attract in this small town grumpy/sunshine romance from author Lily Anh Nam.
Sweet and spicy—CRASH is all about healing old wounds and finding new direction.
Tropes:
💛 Grumpy Sunshine
💛 Small Town Romance
💛 Damsel in Distress
💛 Workplace Romance
💛 Forced Proximity
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Thank you to Lily Anh Nam for the pleasure of reading your ARC... 🩷🩷🩷
September 20, 2025
I absolutely ADORED Griffin and Quynh. I loved the dynamics of the characters and how they had realistic life struggles and real and raw pasts. The way their personalities worked together and they grew as characters had me wanting the book to speed up to finally see what happened but also I didn't want the book to end. Definitely recommend.
September 27, 2025
I'm going to keep my review short and sweet like the book. the sweet part. not the short part lol.
Quynh and Griffin were such great characters. I found this story to be easily believable.
Both had struggles in childhood that lingered with them into adulthood. and it was written to be felt.
I loved how real this felt and that the two were able to come together and find love with one another.
Quynh and Griffin were such great characters. I found this story to be easily believable.
Both had struggles in childhood that lingered with them into adulthood. and it was written to be felt.
I loved how real this felt and that the two were able to come together and find love with one another.
September 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 / 5
Crash took me on a whirlwind of love, heartbreak, and second chances. The chemistry was 🔥 and the emotions were raw, but some moments left me wanting a little more depth. Still, if you love messy, angsty romance full of drama + passion, this one’s worth the ride
Crash took me on a whirlwind of love, heartbreak, and second chances. The chemistry was 🔥 and the emotions were raw, but some moments left me wanting a little more depth. Still, if you love messy, angsty romance full of drama + passion, this one’s worth the ride
October 10, 2025
Lily writing another MMC who is DOWN BAD for the FMC. He's grumpy, hot, and works well with his hands while calling her sunshine. Love Quynh, her perseverance through everything!
GO read this small town romance!
GO read this small town romance!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2025
I loved this, the tension, the chemistry, the tears, the love. Honestly this is one of those books I’ll constantly come back to because it’s so good. Highly recommend you add this to your tbr
September 26, 2025
I have picked up arc reading just finished this book. I loved that both never gave up. I do love that they continued to follow each other. Very good book can’t wait for another
September 26, 2025
Crash is the kind of book that sneaks up on your heart. From the very first chapter, you’re thrown into Quynh’s life just as it’s unraveling — heartbreak, job loss, and the messy chaos of starting over. What I loved most is how Lily Anh Nam balances that raw, emotional vulnerability with a surprising amount of humor and warmth.
The writing feels modern, sharp, and very in the moment. You can hear Quynh’s voice in your head, you feel the sting of her tears in the car, and you root for her as she stumbles into Willowbrook, a town that feels both like a refuge and a challenge. It’s heartfelt without being heavy, dramatic without being overdone — and it keeps you flipping pages.
If you like character-driven romances with a mix of sass, heartbreak, and healing, this book definitely delivers. It’s got that perfect blend of swoon and spice with an undercurrent of cultural depth and family ties. I’d call it a comfort read for anyone who’s ever felt a little lost and had to rebuild from scratch.
The writing feels modern, sharp, and very in the moment. You can hear Quynh’s voice in your head, you feel the sting of her tears in the car, and you root for her as she stumbles into Willowbrook, a town that feels both like a refuge and a challenge. It’s heartfelt without being heavy, dramatic without being overdone — and it keeps you flipping pages.
If you like character-driven romances with a mix of sass, heartbreak, and healing, this book definitely delivers. It’s got that perfect blend of swoon and spice with an undercurrent of cultural depth and family ties. I’d call it a comfort read for anyone who’s ever felt a little lost and had to rebuild from scratch.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews