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Ashwood Falls #1
No Axe To Grind
My ex carved our initials into a tree. I came to return the favor… with a chainsaw.
I came to Ashwood Falls to chop down a tree, not to crash into a real-life mountain man with broody eyes and biceps carved by the gods.
After catching my fiancé playing tickle the pickle with another woman, I ditch my vacation plans and set out to destroy the one thing that still ties us the stupid tree where he carved our initials. Armed with a chainsaw and a bad attitude, I march into the Alaskan woods ready for revenge.
What I’m not ready for? Nearly slicing off my toe and getting rescued by a gruff, silent, gorgeous lumberjack who insists I wait out the blizzard in his remote cabin.
He’s a former Army Ranger who prefers trees to people. I’m a heartbroken woman with no clue how to start over, or how to stop staring at the man who’s helping me heal in ways I never expected.
We’re complete opposites. He’s got walls around his heart. I came here with a chainsaw.
But maybe some things are meant to be carved from second chances.
I came to Ashwood Falls to chop down a tree, not to crash into a real-life mountain man with broody eyes and biceps carved by the gods.
After catching my fiancé playing tickle the pickle with another woman, I ditch my vacation plans and set out to destroy the one thing that still ties us the stupid tree where he carved our initials. Armed with a chainsaw and a bad attitude, I march into the Alaskan woods ready for revenge.
What I’m not ready for? Nearly slicing off my toe and getting rescued by a gruff, silent, gorgeous lumberjack who insists I wait out the blizzard in his remote cabin.
He’s a former Army Ranger who prefers trees to people. I’m a heartbroken woman with no clue how to start over, or how to stop staring at the man who’s helping me heal in ways I never expected.
We’re complete opposites. He’s got walls around his heart. I came here with a chainsaw.
But maybe some things are meant to be carved from second chances.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 19, 2025
133 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
Annie Carlisle
45 books67 followersAnnie Carlisle is the author of steamy romantic suspense novels, including the beloved Hibiscus Harbor series. She crafts stories with resilient women and challenging men, offering readers a perfect mix of love, intrigue, and excitement.
A Florida native, Annie has worn many hats throughout her life, including working as a street paramedic and flight medic, but her favorite role has always been storytelling.
When she’s not writing, Annie is a lover of all animals, especially dogs. She’s an avid collector of all things Goofy and believes in the magic of happily ever after, both on and off the page. Married to a retired Sheriff’s Deputy, Annie enjoys spending time with her husband and their dogs, whether at the beach, the dog park, or relaxing at home.
To learn more about her work, visit her website: www.AnnieCarlisle.com.
A Florida native, Annie has worn many hats throughout her life, including working as a street paramedic and flight medic, but her favorite role has always been storytelling.
When she’s not writing, Annie is a lover of all animals, especially dogs. She’s an avid collector of all things Goofy and believes in the magic of happily ever after, both on and off the page. Married to a retired Sheriff’s Deputy, Annie enjoys spending time with her husband and their dogs, whether at the beach, the dog park, or relaxing at home.
To learn more about her work, visit her website: www.AnnieCarlisle.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
November 9, 2025
It's like a Hallmark movie. Cozy, warm, ridiculous with the plot setting that works, and resolves as you expect it to. And sometimes that's exactly what you need - nothing more, nothing less.
September 17, 2025
This author is new to me, but I very much enjoyed this story, and will be returning to her catalog to read more!
Going from Florida to visit your fiance in Alaska should have been wonderful for Tessa, and Kyle. Long distance relationships are tough. But she gets quite a surprise when she arrives at his office!
Tessa's reaction to Kyle's actions is really relatable, even if her "revenge" plan included an innocent tree, and a big chainsaw she has no idea how to wield... hahaha. Tessa is a spirited whirlwind of energy that needs to exact her "revenge", and leave Alaska - ASAP. Unfortunately, Mother Nature has other ideas, and she finds herself in need of a rescue. Thank goodness Gage is available!
Gage does not know what to do with her sassy, albeit a bit unhinged energy, but quickly becomes enamored by this mystery woman. Living by himself in Alaska hasn't been an issue before her arrival, but now, it's less than appealing, and he finds it tough to keep his attraction to her to himself.
It was easy to turn these pages, and I was at the end before I knew it. The connection between these two was organic and fun to follow. Their irrefutable chemistry and attraction took no time blossoming into love. I enjoyed the way the storyline moved, and while I was frustrated with both of them a couple times, I really enjoyed their HEA. I recommend this read.
I received an ARC from Booksirens (thank you) and my thoughts are my own.
Going from Florida to visit your fiance in Alaska should have been wonderful for Tessa, and Kyle. Long distance relationships are tough. But she gets quite a surprise when she arrives at his office!
Tessa's reaction to Kyle's actions is really relatable, even if her "revenge" plan included an innocent tree, and a big chainsaw she has no idea how to wield... hahaha. Tessa is a spirited whirlwind of energy that needs to exact her "revenge", and leave Alaska - ASAP. Unfortunately, Mother Nature has other ideas, and she finds herself in need of a rescue. Thank goodness Gage is available!
Gage does not know what to do with her sassy, albeit a bit unhinged energy, but quickly becomes enamored by this mystery woman. Living by himself in Alaska hasn't been an issue before her arrival, but now, it's less than appealing, and he finds it tough to keep his attraction to her to himself.
It was easy to turn these pages, and I was at the end before I knew it. The connection between these two was organic and fun to follow. Their irrefutable chemistry and attraction took no time blossoming into love. I enjoyed the way the storyline moved, and while I was frustrated with both of them a couple times, I really enjoyed their HEA. I recommend this read.
I received an ARC from Booksirens (thank you) and my thoughts are my own.
November 22, 2025
rom com
This is a cute funny story. It’s got revenge, chainsaws even a love for raccoons. It’s a laugh out loud read.
This is a cute funny story. It’s got revenge, chainsaws even a love for raccoons. It’s a laugh out loud read.
December 19, 2025
CHAINSAW-WIELDING OR EMOTIONALLY EXPLOSIVE?
The series takes place in the town of Ashwood Falls, Alaska. The story is a contemporary tale with a grumpy mountain man and a revenge-seeking Floridian. One scorned woman, inappropriately attired for Alaskan weather, a huge chainsaw, and a poor tree.
Tessa Renner decided to surprise her fiancé and fly to visit him in Alaska, where he is working. Boy, was the surprise on her when she walked into the office and saw Kyle and a blond bimbo bonking on the desk. Before leaving Alaska and heading back to her life in Florida, she plans to remove the tree where Kyle carved their initials. That is where landowner and former Army Ranger Gage finds her, now injured.
“Thanks for—rescuing me from my poor life choices.”
The story will have Gage taking Tessa back to his home, where they will be hit with a late spring storm that snows them in. He will assess her damaged toe, tape it, and elevate her leg. It gives them time to get to know each other, a bit of their past, and where they are at now in life. You can’t help but laugh out loud at so many scenes and zingers that Tessa spews. While Gage is a loner, he doesn’t make Tessa feel uncomfortable, and even accommodates her whims—like her self-made checkerboard game.
With a one-bedroom home, Gage is going to be the gentleman and give Tessa his bed, but the couch isn’t designed for a man his size—while they share a bed, they keep to themselves. How long will she be stuck in Alaska, with Gage, before chemistry strikes? What happens when she learns she can leave and go back to Florida? Will leaving Gage in Alaska and returning to her life in Florida have meaning, or has she left the best thing she ever had? I liked Tessa and Gage and where their relationship leads—with a future.
The series takes place in the town of Ashwood Falls, Alaska. The story is a contemporary tale with a grumpy mountain man and a revenge-seeking Floridian. One scorned woman, inappropriately attired for Alaskan weather, a huge chainsaw, and a poor tree.
Tessa Renner decided to surprise her fiancé and fly to visit him in Alaska, where he is working. Boy, was the surprise on her when she walked into the office and saw Kyle and a blond bimbo bonking on the desk. Before leaving Alaska and heading back to her life in Florida, she plans to remove the tree where Kyle carved their initials. That is where landowner and former Army Ranger Gage finds her, now injured.
“Thanks for—rescuing me from my poor life choices.”
The story will have Gage taking Tessa back to his home, where they will be hit with a late spring storm that snows them in. He will assess her damaged toe, tape it, and elevate her leg. It gives them time to get to know each other, a bit of their past, and where they are at now in life. You can’t help but laugh out loud at so many scenes and zingers that Tessa spews. While Gage is a loner, he doesn’t make Tessa feel uncomfortable, and even accommodates her whims—like her self-made checkerboard game.
With a one-bedroom home, Gage is going to be the gentleman and give Tessa his bed, but the couch isn’t designed for a man his size—while they share a bed, they keep to themselves. How long will she be stuck in Alaska, with Gage, before chemistry strikes? What happens when she learns she can leave and go back to Florida? Will leaving Gage in Alaska and returning to her life in Florida have meaning, or has she left the best thing she ever had? I liked Tessa and Gage and where their relationship leads—with a future.
September 21, 2025
A surprise for Tessa’s fiancé turned into one of the worst moments of her life. She flew to visit him in Alaska, only to find him busy, very busy with another woman. Devastated and furious, she decides to cut down the tree where they had once carved their initials. She searched for the tree with a chain saw that she bought, but had never used…how hard could it be? Evidently, harder than she thought when the owner of the property arrived. Gage Bennett, former Ranger, lives like a hermit on his property. He has his wood carving business which helps to calm the memories of his time in the service. When they are snowed in, he finds her a bit too loud and impulsive (i.e., the purchase of a chain saw) which left her slightly injured. Soon, he can’t imagine her leaving, missing out on her joy for life and the love she has for his two dogs who will surely miss her if she left. Is it possible that she will decide against returning to the beach and sun and stay for the cold, the snow, and him? The dialog between the two main characters was funny, sometimes a bit snarky and laugh out loud funny! I can’t wait for the next book in this series! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
September 20, 2025
‘No Axe to Grind’ was entertaining. It involved heartbreak, a chainsaw, meeting a mountain man, a beautiful setting in Alaska, getting snowed in, hilarity, falling for the guy, running into an ex, getting back to the real deal, a painful goodbye, cutting down an initialed tree, confiding in a friend, and returning to the scene of the crime. Moreover, Tessa and Gage, the protagonists, were ideally suited for each other. I kept rooting for them.
Additionally, I appreciated the author’s vivid details, including humor, figurative language, and fast-paced dialogue, which created a lively tone, as seen in phrases like “‘Bad year. A job that drains the soul. My boss, who thinks I’m as interchangeable as a printer cartridge. And let’s not forget the spectacular dumpster fire that was my engagement—complete with emotional arson and zero survivors,’ ” or “ ‘The oven mitts are raccoons. The plant known as Linda presides over the window like a school principal. A watercolor of a raccoon in a crooked crown watches my flannels like a benevolent pickpocket king.’ “ Overall, I liked the amusing and heartfelt narrative. I received a copy for free and am giving my honest review voluntarily.
Additionally, I appreciated the author’s vivid details, including humor, figurative language, and fast-paced dialogue, which created a lively tone, as seen in phrases like “‘Bad year. A job that drains the soul. My boss, who thinks I’m as interchangeable as a printer cartridge. And let’s not forget the spectacular dumpster fire that was my engagement—complete with emotional arson and zero survivors,’ ” or “ ‘The oven mitts are raccoons. The plant known as Linda presides over the window like a school principal. A watercolor of a raccoon in a crooked crown watches my flannels like a benevolent pickpocket king.’ “ Overall, I liked the amusing and heartfelt narrative. I received a copy for free and am giving my honest review voluntarily.
October 6, 2025
This is a pretty good story. Tessa gets a nasty awakening when she goes to surprise her fiance in Alaska. As an act of revenge she decides to cut down the offending tree that has their initials carved into it. Thankfully Gage finds her before she does any real damage to the tree or herself with the chainsaw. She is definitely someone who should never handle a chainsaw!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. She is like the queen of the cute one liners and Gage, who is the poster man for the grumpy mountain man, has no choice but to be drawn to her. While trapped during a blizzard Tessa starts to fall for Gage, but can't believe it could possibly happen that fast. I kinda agree with her, I mean she was just engaged to someone else. So she leaves Alaska to go back to her life in Florida. Gage disappointed me alot!! He didn't ask her to stay, didn't even tell her goodbye. Just sat the and said nothing, didn't even watch her go. I'm glad he got his second chance but I was disappointed in the way it came about and it is still a pretty good book! Some heat but not overboard.
September 18, 2025
Flying in to surprise her fiancé Kyle gets the surprise. Tessa is in shock and wants revenge. A tree that holds hers and now ex fiancé 's initials, are craved needs to be made into firewood. One chainsaw later and a sexy lumber jack, a broken toe later and a snow storm life is about to change for both Tessa and Gage.
Gage believed the mountain and peace he wanted and need after serving his country as an Army Ranger is all he need. When a full of life and sassy mouth woman comes chainsawing into his life the growling and one word man learns what sunshine can do to his soul.
I loved these characters, Tessa is a woman who finds that true love comes in the shape of flannel shirts and is worth the trust and heart she has.
Gage finds his walls breaking down from one sassy remark to another one.
This book will pull you in and fall in love with them characters. Oh the right amount of spice.
Can’t wait for the next in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Gage believed the mountain and peace he wanted and need after serving his country as an Army Ranger is all he need. When a full of life and sassy mouth woman comes chainsawing into his life the growling and one word man learns what sunshine can do to his soul.
I loved these characters, Tessa is a woman who finds that true love comes in the shape of flannel shirts and is worth the trust and heart she has.
Gage finds his walls breaking down from one sassy remark to another one.
This book will pull you in and fall in love with them characters. Oh the right amount of spice.
Can’t wait for the next in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
November 29, 2025
Thoughts:
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I know Carlisle can do small town romances well but this one was a step up with the stuck in the cabin too. I loved the dogs and how well their characters shone through and it added to the snowy cabin days and the feeling of homeliness (despite being so far from Tessa’s home). I also really liked Tessa’s character with the clumsiness and jokes about romcoms, it made her feel so much like the kind of person I often am and know so many of. I did like Gage and the parts from his POV to help understand him more and I was rooting for them as a couple by the end too.
Favourite Quote:
“Because love doesn't come around every day. And when it does when it looks like a grumpy mountain man with kind eyes and chainsaw-carved furniture and dogs that fall in love with you instantly-you don't walk away.
You fight.
And this time, I'm going to fight.”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I know Carlisle can do small town romances well but this one was a step up with the stuck in the cabin too. I loved the dogs and how well their characters shone through and it added to the snowy cabin days and the feeling of homeliness (despite being so far from Tessa’s home). I also really liked Tessa’s character with the clumsiness and jokes about romcoms, it made her feel so much like the kind of person I often am and know so many of. I did like Gage and the parts from his POV to help understand him more and I was rooting for them as a couple by the end too.
Favourite Quote:
“Because love doesn't come around every day. And when it does when it looks like a grumpy mountain man with kind eyes and chainsaw-carved furniture and dogs that fall in love with you instantly-you don't walk away.
You fight.
And this time, I'm going to fight.”
September 20, 2025
I loved the way the MC, Gage and Tessa, meet in this book. Two relateable characters both caught up in reacting to events from their pasts. Granted, her experiences are MUCH more recent, but the similarity remains. He's gruff and quiet while she's animated and talks incessantly (especially when nervous, and he makes her nervous😉). With a forced proximity situation, thanks to mother nature and a spring blizzard, they have to find a way to co-exist in his space - preferably without either going crazy. Their banter and nonverbal interactions are great, and I found the storyline enjoyable (even though it was admittedly predictable). Her home is on the other side of the country, and she's leaving when weather permits. Not much room for relationship in that narrative. Right?
I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
September 29, 2025
Tessa’s plan to surprise her fiancé in Alaska backfires when she finds him in a compromising position with another woman. She is ready to flee home to Florida, but wants to erase their initials from a tree in the wild. She buys a chainsaw to chop the tree down, however, has no clue how to use it. Mountain man, Gage, rescues her from the chainsaw after she breaks a toe. By that time the snow is bearing down on them, so Tessa must stay in his cabin for a few days.
The story moves quickly from there. Tessa finds a compatibility with Gage that she never had with her fiancé. Will Tessa return to Florida, or will her time in Alaska with Gage inspire her to take a chance on love again?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and it’s a quick read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story moves quickly from there. Tessa finds a compatibility with Gage that she never had with her fiancé. Will Tessa return to Florida, or will her time in Alaska with Gage inspire her to take a chance on love again?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and it’s a quick read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 3, 2025
Heartbreak that leads to love
My 1st book by this author, looking forward to more. Totally loved the 2 main characters, the dogs and Gage's friend. Tessa is on a mission to visit her fiancee and to make sure he's coming back home to sunny, warm Florida from cold, snowy Alaska. When she gets there with her surprise visit, she walks into a scene she never expected. Kyle cheating on her with his assistant. This tares her world apart. She's now on a different mission dragging a chainsaw up a mountain to retake down a tree that has her and Kyle's initials carved in it, he betrayed her. The next thing she knows after the chainsaw goes wrong, a storm is coming full on and a mountain man named Gage and his 2 adorable dogs change her life forever. I will be reading the next book.
My 1st book by this author, looking forward to more. Totally loved the 2 main characters, the dogs and Gage's friend. Tessa is on a mission to visit her fiancee and to make sure he's coming back home to sunny, warm Florida from cold, snowy Alaska. When she gets there with her surprise visit, she walks into a scene she never expected. Kyle cheating on her with his assistant. This tares her world apart. She's now on a different mission dragging a chainsaw up a mountain to retake down a tree that has her and Kyle's initials carved in it, he betrayed her. The next thing she knows after the chainsaw goes wrong, a storm is coming full on and a mountain man named Gage and his 2 adorable dogs change her life forever. I will be reading the next book.
November 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Her ex carved their initials into a tree—so naturally, she came back with a chainsaw. 🔪🌲
This book was such a fun surprise! Tessa was absolutely hilarious, equal parts chaos and heart, and her “Mountain Man Fever Dream” (aka Gage) was everything you want in a grumpy, flannel-wearing, quietly protective hero. The chemistry between them was perfection, and I loved how their dynamic balanced out, her wild energy meeting his calm, steady presence.
It’s low-angst, full of witty banter, snowy cabin vibes, and just enough chaos to keep you grinning the whole way through. Annie Carlisle has such a knack for creating loveable, slightly chaotic heroines and swoony, grounded men.
A solid 4-star read that had me laughing, swooning, and seriously considering buying a chainsaw.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Her ex carved their initials into a tree—so naturally, she came back with a chainsaw. 🔪🌲
This book was such a fun surprise! Tessa was absolutely hilarious, equal parts chaos and heart, and her “Mountain Man Fever Dream” (aka Gage) was everything you want in a grumpy, flannel-wearing, quietly protective hero. The chemistry between them was perfection, and I loved how their dynamic balanced out, her wild energy meeting his calm, steady presence.
It’s low-angst, full of witty banter, snowy cabin vibes, and just enough chaos to keep you grinning the whole way through. Annie Carlisle has such a knack for creating loveable, slightly chaotic heroines and swoony, grounded men.
A solid 4-star read that had me laughing, swooning, and seriously considering buying a chainsaw.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 8, 2025
Tessa is expecting to marry Kyle in 6 months but when she surprises him in Alaska, she finds him having sex with a co-worker. Before leaving, she wants to find the tree that has their initials on it. Armed with a chainsaw and the tree, Gage finds her struggling with the chainsaw on his property. When she injures her toe, he takes her back to his cabin. A snowstorm closes the roads, and they are stuck together until the weather clears. Gage is used to solitude so having Tessa takes a little getting used to. This is a great book. I loved the town where everyone knows each other. Gage was so creative with his wood carving. I could feel the cold and the snow as well as the warm fires and two dogs.
October 7, 2025
Tessa arrives in Alaska to surprise her fiancé, but she ends up being surprised instead. Deciding to eliminate their declaration of love, she purchases a chainsaw to cut down the evidence. Of course the owner of the property, Gage, manages to change her mind and offer her refuge while her foot rests during the bad storm.
His talent of chainsaw carving fascinates her and he draws her into the safe part of the art. The relief of her stress and new attraction comes in the form of a raccoon.
This was a would they or wouldn't they book that I received from BookSirens and this is my honest and voluntary review.
His talent of chainsaw carving fascinates her and he draws her into the safe part of the art. The relief of her stress and new attraction comes in the form of a raccoon.
This was a would they or wouldn't they book that I received from BookSirens and this is my honest and voluntary review.
October 18, 2025
Great new series: Ashwood Falls, Alaska. Expected sun and surf from this Hibiscus Harbor author, but was pleasantly surprised. Tessa went to Alaska to surprise her fiancé and help him pack to return to Hibiscus Harbor. The surprise was on her to discover him getting friendly with his associate. Seeking revenge she buys a chainsaw to cut the tree they carved their initials on. Bad idea. A sudden snowstorm for the unprepared Floridian, a broken toe and the grumpy lumberjack that rescues her, has Tessa facing life choices. Loved it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 25, 2025
Tessa is a Florida girl suddenly dropped into the cold and snow of Alaska. She innocently took a huge chainsaw to cut down an offending tree with hers and her cheating ex’s initials. As the snow gets heavier Gage appears to rescue Tessa and get her to his cabin. She didn’t plan any of this, nor did she intend to fall for Gage in a few short days, as well as his dogs and his small town. It breaks everyone’s hearts when Tessa has to go back to Florida but will she stay or will she return? Excellent written book with strong, great characters and fun dogs.
September 26, 2025
It starts off with a surprise for more than person. Gage sounds hot and safe. Oh my God, the safe talk made me twitterpated.I'm sorry. Rocco and Toby as dog names.Just too cute also agree that one of them was judging. Has a very good visuals. It's laugh out loud funny.I mean who hasn't wanted to cut down a tree with initials carved into it after a bad breakup. The third act break hauntingly beautiful in Gage's perspective. Oh my god the raccoons that is all.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2025
🎑Got me all emotional!😪
My first Annie Carlisle romance and I was totally shocked by the emotion she drew out of me. I was in pieces over woodsman, former Army Ranger Gage's dilemma after he rescues Tessa and lets her breech the walls around his solitary existence. This male lead is a keeper!
A real stunner, and the resolution at the close was perfect. So pleased I picked this one up. Not long but it packed just the right mix of whimsy and romance, with a couple shots of steam.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
My first Annie Carlisle romance and I was totally shocked by the emotion she drew out of me. I was in pieces over woodsman, former Army Ranger Gage's dilemma after he rescues Tessa and lets her breech the walls around his solitary existence. This male lead is a keeper!
A real stunner, and the resolution at the close was perfect. So pleased I picked this one up. Not long but it packed just the right mix of whimsy and romance, with a couple shots of steam.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
September 30, 2025
This is such a sweet story!! Tessa flies from Florida to Alaska to surprise her fiance only to find out that he's cheating on her. In an effort to erase what should have been a romantic gesture, Tessa not only gets injured but also stuck in the Alaskan wilderness. Thankfully she is found and rescued by Gage. But who really rescued who?
This is a entertaining story with witty dialogue mixed with the right amount of spice!
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a entertaining story with witty dialogue mixed with the right amount of spice!
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 18, 2025
A perfect novella that has all the right ingredients:
- walking in on your fiancée with his secretary
- over-the-top reaction involving chainsaws
- grumpy but heart-of-gold ex-army guy living in the middle of no-where
- snowstorm and spicy time
Perfectly blended with some quaint small-town charm and a couple of crazy best friends! I can't wait to re-visit the characters of this town....
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
- walking in on your fiancée with his secretary
- over-the-top reaction involving chainsaws
- grumpy but heart-of-gold ex-army guy living in the middle of no-where
- snowstorm and spicy time
Perfectly blended with some quaint small-town charm and a couple of crazy best friends! I can't wait to re-visit the characters of this town....
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 28, 2025
ARC review: A quick, cozy and esay enjoyable story in the cold of Alaska.
There is banter, spice and a grumpy man with a big heart - theres snow, dogs and a heartfelt headstrong woman.
Even if it's a short story, you still get it all.
Perfect for upcoming winter season and if you need to reach your reading goal.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily - and a thanks to Booksirens for the ARC
There is banter, spice and a grumpy man with a big heart - theres snow, dogs and a heartfelt headstrong woman.
Even if it's a short story, you still get it all.
Perfect for upcoming winter season and if you need to reach your reading goal.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily - and a thanks to Booksirens for the ARC
October 5, 2025
“No Axe to Grind” by Annie Carlisle
-A heartbroken Florida girl meets a gruff Alaskan hermit in this funny, snowed-in romance. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Tessa’s disastrous trip north takes a sharp turn when Gage rescues her—chainsaw mishaps and all. Their banter is witty, their chemistry undeniable, and his loyal dogs steal a few scenes too.
Warm, humorous, and heartfelt—this cozy romance proves love can bloom even in a blizzard.
-A heartbroken Florida girl meets a gruff Alaskan hermit in this funny, snowed-in romance. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Tessa’s disastrous trip north takes a sharp turn when Gage rescues her—chainsaw mishaps and all. Their banter is witty, their chemistry undeniable, and his loyal dogs steal a few scenes too.
Warm, humorous, and heartfelt—this cozy romance proves love can bloom even in a blizzard.
October 6, 2025
I loved this little jewel of a story. Gage and Tessa are totally relatable and a couple I would want to be friends with. A bit damaged, but so wanting someone to fill a void they never really thought they deserved. Excellent writing, this story will capture your heart, you’ll laugh at their hilarious banter, and cheer for a happily ever after.
I hope Gage and Tessa have more adventures together in the future. I think there’s more chaos to be discovered.
I hope Gage and Tessa have more adventures together in the future. I think there’s more chaos to be discovered.
October 17, 2025
Book 1 in Ashwood Falls. I found this to be a well written romance that's both sweet and steamy. Great characters smooth flowing storyline I was captivated by. I adored Tessa's character and could totally relate to her and some of her unhinged energy and Gage was wonderful as he came to her rescue despite being a bit of a recluse. Such a great read I found myself at the end before I even knew it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2025
This was a super cute story. Gage is the perfect grumpy hermit and Tessa is the perfect hurricane to tip his world upside down. I loved the tree revenge even though it was innocent. Loved the Alaska setting and the quirky town folks. I would definitely put this one at the top of the to read list if I were you. Loved it! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 21, 2025
utter nonsense
What did I just read? This was nearly unreadable. These two meet hours after she and her fiance break up- the finance she was forcing to move to FL because she loves it too much to move to him…. “Falls in love” with a man she knows for three whole days- then comes back to live with him after quitting her job and now it’s no big deal to leave Florida. This girl is a train wreck and the guy is no better. Wildly unbelievable and just ick.
What did I just read? This was nearly unreadable. These two meet hours after she and her fiance break up- the finance she was forcing to move to FL because she loves it too much to move to him…. “Falls in love” with a man she knows for three whole days- then comes back to live with him after quitting her job and now it’s no big deal to leave Florida. This girl is a train wreck and the guy is no better. Wildly unbelievable and just ick.
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September 14, 2025Book 1 Ashwood Falls story of former Army Ranger Gage and Tessa. I so need more. This one is hilarious and downright funny all the way through. I think Tessa might be part crazy raccoon, but the crazy woodworking mountain man takes her and he won’t give her up. They are a match made in Alaska heaven.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 14, 2025
So much fun absolutely loved it. There was pain and anger but then so get the wonder and joy and so much love. Tessa is so sharp and bubbly and Gage is just a grump but put the two together and you get the perfect balance
I received this ARC for free from the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received this ARC for free from the author and I am leaving this review voluntarily
September 15, 2025
What a delightful story! Two completely different people forced together by a snowstorm has the most positive consequences. Gage is such a recluse, probably with good reason but not healthy ones. Along comes a devastated Tessa and both their worlds change. Tessa made me laugh out loud with her conversations and the raccoon. A real feel good story to enjoy.
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