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Love Grows Wild
Not yet published
Expected 24 Mar 26From Wall Street Journal bestselling author Winter Renshaw comes a small-town slow burn about a writer who returns to her roots and the farmer who helps her grow.
Wren Jensen thought she had it all—until she was left at the altar and left with nothing but writer’s block. Out of options, she packs up her five-year-old son and heads back to her hometown of Colton Valley, hoping the quiet countryside will inspire her again.
Hunter McCrae wanted that property for himself. The last thing the grumpy farmer expected was a single mom moving in next door—or how much she’d unsettle his carefully guarded solitude.
Wren isn’t looking for love. Hunter isn’t looking for neighbors. But with every stolen glance and shared moment, the walls they’ve built start to crack.
She’s haunted by heartbreak. He’s married to his solitude. Neither is ready to risk it all.
But sometimes love doesn’t follow rules. It grows wild, right where it’s not supposed to.
Wren Jensen thought she had it all—until she was left at the altar and left with nothing but writer’s block. Out of options, she packs up her five-year-old son and heads back to her hometown of Colton Valley, hoping the quiet countryside will inspire her again.
Hunter McCrae wanted that property for himself. The last thing the grumpy farmer expected was a single mom moving in next door—or how much she’d unsettle his carefully guarded solitude.
Wren isn’t looking for love. Hunter isn’t looking for neighbors. But with every stolen glance and shared moment, the walls they’ve built start to crack.
She’s haunted by heartbreak. He’s married to his solitude. Neither is ready to risk it all.
But sometimes love doesn’t follow rules. It grows wild, right where it’s not supposed to.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 24, 2026
37 people want to read
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February 16, 2026
★★★.5
Love Grows Wild was a quick cozy small town single mom romance. Wren, our FMC, and her young son move back to her hometown after her fiancé leaves her at the alter. She’s a romance author who’s currently struggling with writer’s block. The MMC, Hunter, was a stoic, all-work-no-play, grumpy farmer who was upset when he realized the property he thought was promised to him, gets bought by a single mom. The main characters both had past traumas and insecurities that we see them struggle with throughout the story.
This was a good romance. It was easy to follow along with their story. I enjoyed the sort of push and pull the main characters went through. It was obvious from the beginning they had feelings but because of past insecurities we see them both fight against said feelings. I wouldn’t necessarily say this was slow burn because it honestly felt like their relationship grew quickly. It almost felt like the book focused a bit more on their physical relationship rather than the emotional. I think if they had grown their connection, especially as neighbors, a bit more before they decided to get physical with each other, it would’ve shown a more organically growing relationship between them. I also didn’t really care for any of the side characters (besides her son of course). One of the characters (don’t want to spoil but you’ll know who when you read) annoyed me with how they played the main characters. Overall, their story was heartfelt and comforting.
I think Love Grows Wild is a perfect book for those who enjoy a small town, cozy, feel good romance. This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed this story thoroughly.
Thank you to the author, the publisher & NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Love Grows Wild was a quick cozy small town single mom romance. Wren, our FMC, and her young son move back to her hometown after her fiancé leaves her at the alter. She’s a romance author who’s currently struggling with writer’s block. The MMC, Hunter, was a stoic, all-work-no-play, grumpy farmer who was upset when he realized the property he thought was promised to him, gets bought by a single mom. The main characters both had past traumas and insecurities that we see them struggle with throughout the story.
This was a good romance. It was easy to follow along with their story. I enjoyed the sort of push and pull the main characters went through. It was obvious from the beginning they had feelings but because of past insecurities we see them both fight against said feelings. I wouldn’t necessarily say this was slow burn because it honestly felt like their relationship grew quickly. It almost felt like the book focused a bit more on their physical relationship rather than the emotional. I think if they had grown their connection, especially as neighbors, a bit more before they decided to get physical with each other, it would’ve shown a more organically growing relationship between them. I also didn’t really care for any of the side characters (besides her son of course). One of the characters (don’t want to spoil but you’ll know who when you read) annoyed me with how they played the main characters. Overall, their story was heartfelt and comforting.
I think Love Grows Wild is a perfect book for those who enjoy a small town, cozy, feel good romance. This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed this story thoroughly.
Thank you to the author, the publisher & NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 8, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book.
This is the perfect romance. There’s nothing about this one that doesn’t feel right, and everything about it is kind of perfect. This is a book about two people who have been through hard things, survived, and then found themselves growing into a beautiful new normal together. If you read one romance this year, let it be this one.
This is the perfect romance. There’s nothing about this one that doesn’t feel right, and everything about it is kind of perfect. This is a book about two people who have been through hard things, survived, and then found themselves growing into a beautiful new normal together. If you read one romance this year, let it be this one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A love that heals the heart.
Sweet, complicated, tragic and above all else, healing and super romantic, LOVE GROWS WILD from Author Winter Renshaw is a beautiful story where two people want the same piece of land in the hope it will bring about a sense of peace and healing in their lives. It represents a new beginning to both of them, albeit in different ways.
For Wren and her son Atticus, it was a new start they both badly needed. Being left on the morning of her wedding may not have upset Wren as much as it should have, but it hurt Atticus more because her ex-fiancé had been such a huge and promising part of his young life as a father figure, and as a parent, I cried for the wee fella because I felt the betrayal in his eyes would’ve been huge😭. I’m eternally grateful that our own son stepped up to become an amazing and loving stepdad to a beautiful baby boy, now a funny 3-year-old who we’ve have claimed as our first grandchild. Wren missed the smiles her son no longer gave, and she also missed the creativity of her author mind. They both needed to begin anew;
“I’m excited for this new chapter,” ... “It’s the perfect size for the two of us, and with all that space, Atti can actually touch grass instead of growing up in a concrete jungle.”
Hell’s teeth, I was excited for them until I got to know about Hunter’s personal demons and his motivation for buy the land off his neighbour, and they too were heart-breaking 💔. Perhaps even more so. I couldn’t fathom the tragedy his family had suffered and understood why his need to complete a promise made was so (huge/important). Even before he’d met Wren and realised the failure of the landowner to honour their gentlemen’s agreement, we saw only a glimpse of what it meant to him;
“I’ve got personal ties to that property, to that house and those grounds and that section of river. I made a promise to someone a lifetime ago, someone near and dear to me, and I’ll be dam(m)ed if I break it.”
Completing this promise would’ve meant a new start for him moving forward and although I knew we would be getting an HEA out of LOVE GROWS WILD, I was completely gutted for him and what the landowner had done in cutting him out of the opportunity to purchase it.
All this heartbreak so far and I was only a couple of chapters into the book!!!! Then Ms Winter treats her readers to the chemistry between them, both trying to deny it a place in their lives. Hunter’s reluctant and stoic yet supportive interactions with Atticus gave my heart the warm fuzzies – this grumpy cowboy trying to remain aloof to the neighbours who have stolen his quiet and solo existence, while failing spectacularly.
I adored every moment I spent reading this poignant book. I loved seeing the vulnerability from Wren as she journalled her thoughts, along with watching Hunter’s heart being pried wide open by his new neighbours. I thought that anything growing in the wild needs to be tough and resilient to survive, and that love growing between Wren and Hunter, and between Hunter and Atticus was resilient indeed. Even if the two people involved carry enough baggage between them that could run the risk of burying it under the weight of misunderstandings or hiding behind a wall of protection around their hearts.
Ms Winter always brings together a story that is unputdownable. It will always leave me thinking about it long after I’ve finished it and I will always recommend it as guaranteed great reading. 5-healing-slow-burn-romantic-Stars💖🌿✮*
Sweet, complicated, tragic and above all else, healing and super romantic, LOVE GROWS WILD from Author Winter Renshaw is a beautiful story where two people want the same piece of land in the hope it will bring about a sense of peace and healing in their lives. It represents a new beginning to both of them, albeit in different ways.
For Wren and her son Atticus, it was a new start they both badly needed. Being left on the morning of her wedding may not have upset Wren as much as it should have, but it hurt Atticus more because her ex-fiancé had been such a huge and promising part of his young life as a father figure, and as a parent, I cried for the wee fella because I felt the betrayal in his eyes would’ve been huge😭. I’m eternally grateful that our own son stepped up to become an amazing and loving stepdad to a beautiful baby boy, now a funny 3-year-old who we’ve have claimed as our first grandchild. Wren missed the smiles her son no longer gave, and she also missed the creativity of her author mind. They both needed to begin anew;
“I’m excited for this new chapter,” ... “It’s the perfect size for the two of us, and with all that space, Atti can actually touch grass instead of growing up in a concrete jungle.”
Hell’s teeth, I was excited for them until I got to know about Hunter’s personal demons and his motivation for buy the land off his neighbour, and they too were heart-breaking 💔. Perhaps even more so. I couldn’t fathom the tragedy his family had suffered and understood why his need to complete a promise made was so (huge/important). Even before he’d met Wren and realised the failure of the landowner to honour their gentlemen’s agreement, we saw only a glimpse of what it meant to him;
“I’ve got personal ties to that property, to that house and those grounds and that section of river. I made a promise to someone a lifetime ago, someone near and dear to me, and I’ll be dam(m)ed if I break it.”
Completing this promise would’ve meant a new start for him moving forward and although I knew we would be getting an HEA out of LOVE GROWS WILD, I was completely gutted for him and what the landowner had done in cutting him out of the opportunity to purchase it.
All this heartbreak so far and I was only a couple of chapters into the book!!!! Then Ms Winter treats her readers to the chemistry between them, both trying to deny it a place in their lives. Hunter’s reluctant and stoic yet supportive interactions with Atticus gave my heart the warm fuzzies – this grumpy cowboy trying to remain aloof to the neighbours who have stolen his quiet and solo existence, while failing spectacularly.
I adored every moment I spent reading this poignant book. I loved seeing the vulnerability from Wren as she journalled her thoughts, along with watching Hunter’s heart being pried wide open by his new neighbours. I thought that anything growing in the wild needs to be tough and resilient to survive, and that love growing between Wren and Hunter, and between Hunter and Atticus was resilient indeed. Even if the two people involved carry enough baggage between them that could run the risk of burying it under the weight of misunderstandings or hiding behind a wall of protection around their hearts.
Ms Winter always brings together a story that is unputdownable. It will always leave me thinking about it long after I’ve finished it and I will always recommend it as guaranteed great reading. 5-healing-slow-burn-romantic-Stars💖🌿✮*
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
“You could’ve kissed me. And I would’ve kissed you back. Soft. Slow. Like the world was holding its breath just for us.”
Sweet and heartwarming, Love Grows Wild is a breath of fresh country air. After a failed relationship and writer's block, Wren Jensen moved back to her hometown in Colton Valley with her 4 year old son. When she bought the farmhouse on the riverfront that her neighbor, Hunter McRae, had his eye on, they were instantly at odds. The tension between them ran deep, both with a lifetime of stories that drove their actions. Hunter liked to control everything in his life, but what would happen if his heart took over and that was the one thing he couldn't control?
Wren and Hunter had an undeniable connection yet neither of them was looking for a relationship. I loved how Hunter showed up for Wren, fighting for her, rescuing her, being there for her without being asked. Hunter became Wren's inspiration for writing again while they surrendered to the attraction simmering between them, lines blurring into something messy and complicated, something possibly real.
I loved Hunter, the classic grumpy farmer who kept others at a distance but who loved fiercely and had a heart of gold. My heart broke upon learning why the land was so important to him, the feelings he kept hidden inside under a veil of solitude as they weighed heavy on his soul. He was exactly the kind of man every woman should have by her side, one who loves her unconditionally, wanting her, desiring her, all of her, including her imperfections.
Wren was the strong, independent firestorm Hunter needed to challenge everything he thought he knew about himself. I loved her resilience and her strength, her love for her son, a wide-eyed little boy filled with love and curiosity. She consumed Hunter's thoughts, their connection raw, vulnerable and charged with emotions but they both had mile-high walls around their hearts holding them back. I was completely immersed in their story, in the hope and heartbreak, in the unspoken words, in the secrets and unfulfilled promises. I felt like I was sitting on my porch swing in Colton Valley, glass of wine in hand, watching it all unfold.
Love Grows Wild is for anyone who has been told they're too complicated, too messy, simply too much. It's about dreams and possibilities, fears and insecurities, trust and healing, never settling for less than you deserve, loving someone and being loved in return. I loved how this novel reflected on Winter's real-life story and I can honestly say it's one of my favorites that she's written.
“You’re mine,” I tell her, my hands cradling her face. “I’ve been trying to tell you that from the start.”
✨️Small-Town Romance
✨️Grumpy / Sunshine
✨️Single Mom
✨️City Girl x Country Boy
4.5⭐️
*Special thanks to author Winter Renshaw, Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC!
Sweet and heartwarming, Love Grows Wild is a breath of fresh country air. After a failed relationship and writer's block, Wren Jensen moved back to her hometown in Colton Valley with her 4 year old son. When she bought the farmhouse on the riverfront that her neighbor, Hunter McRae, had his eye on, they were instantly at odds. The tension between them ran deep, both with a lifetime of stories that drove their actions. Hunter liked to control everything in his life, but what would happen if his heart took over and that was the one thing he couldn't control?
Wren and Hunter had an undeniable connection yet neither of them was looking for a relationship. I loved how Hunter showed up for Wren, fighting for her, rescuing her, being there for her without being asked. Hunter became Wren's inspiration for writing again while they surrendered to the attraction simmering between them, lines blurring into something messy and complicated, something possibly real.
I loved Hunter, the classic grumpy farmer who kept others at a distance but who loved fiercely and had a heart of gold. My heart broke upon learning why the land was so important to him, the feelings he kept hidden inside under a veil of solitude as they weighed heavy on his soul. He was exactly the kind of man every woman should have by her side, one who loves her unconditionally, wanting her, desiring her, all of her, including her imperfections.
Wren was the strong, independent firestorm Hunter needed to challenge everything he thought he knew about himself. I loved her resilience and her strength, her love for her son, a wide-eyed little boy filled with love and curiosity. She consumed Hunter's thoughts, their connection raw, vulnerable and charged with emotions but they both had mile-high walls around their hearts holding them back. I was completely immersed in their story, in the hope and heartbreak, in the unspoken words, in the secrets and unfulfilled promises. I felt like I was sitting on my porch swing in Colton Valley, glass of wine in hand, watching it all unfold.
Love Grows Wild is for anyone who has been told they're too complicated, too messy, simply too much. It's about dreams and possibilities, fears and insecurities, trust and healing, never settling for less than you deserve, loving someone and being loved in return. I loved how this novel reflected on Winter's real-life story and I can honestly say it's one of my favorites that she's written.
“You’re mine,” I tell her, my hands cradling her face. “I’ve been trying to tell you that from the start.”
✨️Small-Town Romance
✨️Grumpy / Sunshine
✨️Single Mom
✨️City Girl x Country Boy
4.5⭐️
*Special thanks to author Winter Renshaw, Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC!
November 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wren shows up in Colton Valley with her son, ready to hit reset on life (an idea I fully supported until the finale zipped by faster than a tractor on a country road). Winter Renshaw delivers a small-town slow burn that mostly hits the right notes: the writing is straightforward with a cozy vibe, the pacing feels natural, and the romance simmers just enough to keep you interested without flipping to full-blown obsession.
Hunter McCrae is the textbook mysterious farmer-next-door: quiet, steady, and carrying enough emotional baggage to start his own moving company. Their relationship builds slowly and realistically, wrapped in fields of wildflowers and everyday tenderness. If you like your romance like Alice Clayton’s easy to read with some bite, then this'll hit that sweet spot.
But here’s where things get bumpy. When Hunter believes hurtful rumors without so much as a heart-to-heart with Wren, all the careful relationship-building takes a stumble. Ghosting Wren like a bad episode of a teen drama felt a little unearned for a guy who’s supposed to be a solid rock. And when they finally reconnect? Instead of hashing out the real issues, a kiss quietly acts like a clean slate and Wren just goes along with it like nothing happened. That part felt rushed and left me wanting more mature, honest communication.
Overall, it is a warm, slow-burn romance that gets cozy and real but slips a bit on conflict resolution. Worth it for the journey, but don’t expect a perfect ending, it's more like a “we’ll talk about it later” kind of wrap-up.
Thanks to Netgalley and Montlake for the digital arc!!
Wren shows up in Colton Valley with her son, ready to hit reset on life (an idea I fully supported until the finale zipped by faster than a tractor on a country road). Winter Renshaw delivers a small-town slow burn that mostly hits the right notes: the writing is straightforward with a cozy vibe, the pacing feels natural, and the romance simmers just enough to keep you interested without flipping to full-blown obsession.
Hunter McCrae is the textbook mysterious farmer-next-door: quiet, steady, and carrying enough emotional baggage to start his own moving company. Their relationship builds slowly and realistically, wrapped in fields of wildflowers and everyday tenderness. If you like your romance like Alice Clayton’s easy to read with some bite, then this'll hit that sweet spot.
But here’s where things get bumpy. When Hunter believes hurtful rumors without so much as a heart-to-heart with Wren, all the careful relationship-building takes a stumble. Ghosting Wren like a bad episode of a teen drama felt a little unearned for a guy who’s supposed to be a solid rock. And when they finally reconnect? Instead of hashing out the real issues, a kiss quietly acts like a clean slate and Wren just goes along with it like nothing happened. That part felt rushed and left me wanting more mature, honest communication.
Overall, it is a warm, slow-burn romance that gets cozy and real but slips a bit on conflict resolution. Worth it for the journey, but don’t expect a perfect ending, it's more like a “we’ll talk about it later” kind of wrap-up.
Thanks to Netgalley and Montlake for the digital arc!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Love Grows Wild is a small-town contemporary romance full of charm, quiet healing, and unexpected chemistry. From the very first pages, there’s a comforting, grounded atmosphere, one where the characters have just as much to tend to in their hearts as they do in their fields.
The story follows Wren Jensen, a writer who thought she had it all until she was left at the altar and hit with a crushing case of writer’s block. With nowhere else to go, she returns to her hometown of Colton Valley with her five-year-old son, hoping to find peace, stability, and maybe a little inspiration in the simplicity of rural life.
Enter Hunter McCrae, a gruff, solitary farmer who values his quiet routine and has zero interest in new neighbors, especially not one who disrupts his carefully cultivated solitude. And definitely not one who brings warmth, stories, and a presence he can’t seem to ignore.
What begins with shared silences and cautious glances slowly grows into something deeper. Neither of them is looking for love, she’s healing, he’s fiercely independent, but somehow, against their better judgment, something starts to take root.
What stood out:
🌾 The small-town setting and the natural, unhurried pacing that makes the romance feel organic.
🌾 The emotional growth of both Wren and Hunter, as two wounded people learning to trust again.
🌾 The balance between tenderness, quiet moments, and a slow burn tension that lingers beautifully.
Overall: Love Grows Wild is a comforting, heartfelt read that blends slow burn romance, rural charm, and personal growth. Perfect for readers who love stories where love blooms gently, alongside healing and second chances. 🌿📚
The story follows Wren Jensen, a writer who thought she had it all until she was left at the altar and hit with a crushing case of writer’s block. With nowhere else to go, she returns to her hometown of Colton Valley with her five-year-old son, hoping to find peace, stability, and maybe a little inspiration in the simplicity of rural life.
Enter Hunter McCrae, a gruff, solitary farmer who values his quiet routine and has zero interest in new neighbors, especially not one who disrupts his carefully cultivated solitude. And definitely not one who brings warmth, stories, and a presence he can’t seem to ignore.
What begins with shared silences and cautious glances slowly grows into something deeper. Neither of them is looking for love, she’s healing, he’s fiercely independent, but somehow, against their better judgment, something starts to take root.
What stood out:
🌾 The small-town setting and the natural, unhurried pacing that makes the romance feel organic.
🌾 The emotional growth of both Wren and Hunter, as two wounded people learning to trust again.
🌾 The balance between tenderness, quiet moments, and a slow burn tension that lingers beautifully.
Overall: Love Grows Wild is a comforting, heartfelt read that blends slow burn romance, rural charm, and personal growth. Perfect for readers who love stories where love blooms gently, alongside healing and second chances. 🌿📚
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
After a failed relationship and a long battle with writer's block, Wren Jensen is trying to break a streak of bad luck. She buys a farmhouse in her hometown and moves to Colton Valley with her four-year-old son. There, she finds inspiration in the country life and in her stoic farmer neighbor, Hunter McRae.
Hunter keeps to himself but commands attention when he enters a room. He's almost somber in parts, and it's obvious he's carrying the weight of something that wears at him. As a way of coping, he carefully controls every aspect of his life. But he doesn't expect the wave of emotions he experiences whenever Wren is near. It takes him a while to decipher his feelings, but he never denies she was always "his" from the start.
Both have huge walls around their hearts and it takes some time to break through those emotional barriers even after the physical chemistry ignites between them. I loved Hunter and how reliable he is. He's a textbook hero that makes you sigh, even with all his frowns and grumpiness. And Wren is a strong character. She is fiercely independent yet vulnerable. I enjoyed seeing the building relationship between Wren and Hunter. I also loved the building bond between Wren's son and Hunter.
This book is not just a heartwarming romance, it's a story about healing, never settling, and trust. It's about letting your guard down even when you're terrified of the unknown. And most importantly, it's about loving someone for exactly who they are and knowing you are being equally loved in return.
/I received an advanced edition of this book via NetGalley. This did not affect my opinion of the book or content of my review./
Hunter keeps to himself but commands attention when he enters a room. He's almost somber in parts, and it's obvious he's carrying the weight of something that wears at him. As a way of coping, he carefully controls every aspect of his life. But he doesn't expect the wave of emotions he experiences whenever Wren is near. It takes him a while to decipher his feelings, but he never denies she was always "his" from the start.
Both have huge walls around their hearts and it takes some time to break through those emotional barriers even after the physical chemistry ignites between them. I loved Hunter and how reliable he is. He's a textbook hero that makes you sigh, even with all his frowns and grumpiness. And Wren is a strong character. She is fiercely independent yet vulnerable. I enjoyed seeing the building relationship between Wren and Hunter. I also loved the building bond between Wren's son and Hunter.
This book is not just a heartwarming romance, it's a story about healing, never settling, and trust. It's about letting your guard down even when you're terrified of the unknown. And most importantly, it's about loving someone for exactly who they are and knowing you are being equally loved in return.
/I received an advanced edition of this book via NetGalley. This did not affect my opinion of the book or content of my review./
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Releasing on March 24, 2026, Winter Renshaw’s newest novel is a tender, slow-burn romance that feels like it was written for every true romance reader. At its heart, this is a story of hope...of strength found in new beginnings, and of love that grows wild where it’s least expected.
Wren Jensen, a single mother returning home after heartbreak, and Hunter McCrae, the grumpy farmer next door, are an unforgettable pair. Their chemistry is palpable in every stolen glance and quiet moment. As Hunter admits,
“There’s something about her energy—soft but not fragile. Warm but not desperate. Friendly but not imposing.” And Wren, in turn, sees past his solitude:
“You’re like a book with no cover, no title, no description. Nothing to go on but gut instinct and blind faith. And something in my gut says you could easily be a page turner, something I could devour in one sitting, if you let me.”
The romance builds with exquisite tension until Hunter finally confesses, “I should’ve kissed you the first time I had the chance. I’m not making that mistake again." It’s moments like these that make the novel utterly romantic, brimming with vulnerability and passion.
Winter Renshaw has crafted a small-town love story that is both deeply emotional and irresistibly hopeful. A must-read for anyone who believes in second chances, healing, and the kind of love that takes root when you least expect it.
Thanks to Netgalley for the copy of the book.
🎶call it what you want by taylor swift
🎶daydreamer by adele
Wren Jensen, a single mother returning home after heartbreak, and Hunter McCrae, the grumpy farmer next door, are an unforgettable pair. Their chemistry is palpable in every stolen glance and quiet moment. As Hunter admits,
“There’s something about her energy—soft but not fragile. Warm but not desperate. Friendly but not imposing.” And Wren, in turn, sees past his solitude:
“You’re like a book with no cover, no title, no description. Nothing to go on but gut instinct and blind faith. And something in my gut says you could easily be a page turner, something I could devour in one sitting, if you let me.”
The romance builds with exquisite tension until Hunter finally confesses, “I should’ve kissed you the first time I had the chance. I’m not making that mistake again." It’s moments like these that make the novel utterly romantic, brimming with vulnerability and passion.
Winter Renshaw has crafted a small-town love story that is both deeply emotional and irresistibly hopeful. A must-read for anyone who believes in second chances, healing, and the kind of love that takes root when you least expect it.
Thanks to Netgalley for the copy of the book.
🎶call it what you want by taylor swift
🎶daydreamer by adele
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Tropes:
🧡single mom
💚returning to hometown
🧡city woman x country man
💚older main characters ( late 30s/early 40s)
🧡romance author x farmer
💚dual pov
I absolutely adore Winter Renshaws books. It’s been a minute since she’s written anything so I was excited to see this one. Love Grows Wild is a small-town contemporary romance That is heartwarming and i absolutely loved Wren and Hunter
Wren Jensen is a single mom to her 4 year old son Atticus and has just recently moved back to her hometown after being left at the altar. She needed a fresh start and to be able to write again thought being near family and the country air would help her.
Hunter McCrae is the the grumpy and misunderstood farmer that lives next door, He has his own share of hurt and heartache and often prefers the solitude life then being around people, especially nosy neighbors who are sunshine and rainbows.
Wren and Hunter had a connection yet neither of them was looking for love or even a relationship.
The tension between them was thick at times, and they have chemistry that is off the charts.
Wren is fiercely independent, solely relying upon herself but the way Hunter just kept proving to her that she was his person was just not only showing up for her , but showing up for Atticus too. The bond Hunter shared with him was special
If you love a small town feel good romance or need a little something to clean your pallet definitely give this a read.
🧡single mom
💚returning to hometown
🧡city woman x country man
💚older main characters ( late 30s/early 40s)
🧡romance author x farmer
💚dual pov
I absolutely adore Winter Renshaws books. It’s been a minute since she’s written anything so I was excited to see this one. Love Grows Wild is a small-town contemporary romance That is heartwarming and i absolutely loved Wren and Hunter
Wren Jensen is a single mom to her 4 year old son Atticus and has just recently moved back to her hometown after being left at the altar. She needed a fresh start and to be able to write again thought being near family and the country air would help her.
Hunter McCrae is the the grumpy and misunderstood farmer that lives next door, He has his own share of hurt and heartache and often prefers the solitude life then being around people, especially nosy neighbors who are sunshine and rainbows.
Wren and Hunter had a connection yet neither of them was looking for love or even a relationship.
The tension between them was thick at times, and they have chemistry that is off the charts.
Wren is fiercely independent, solely relying upon herself but the way Hunter just kept proving to her that she was his person was just not only showing up for her , but showing up for Atticus too. The bond Hunter shared with him was special
If you love a small town feel good romance or need a little something to clean your pallet definitely give this a read.
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November 25, 2025Wren regresa a Colton Valley buscando un nuevo comienzo para ella y su hijo después de un año que les arrebató más de lo que imaginaba. Lo que encuentra es una vida más simple, un hogar con historia y un vecino que despierta en ella todo lo que creía dormido. Hunter McCrae es reservado, firme y marcado por pérdidas que han dejado huellas profundas, pero también es el hombre que aparece cuando ella lo necesita, incluso antes de que se atreva a pedir ayuda. Entre campos interminables, una casa que vuelve a sentirse propia y la ternura inesperada de ver a su hijo sonreír otra vez, Wren descubre que la calma también puede enamorar. Y mientras Hunter intenta mantener las distancias, ambos van construyendo un vínculo que crece con la misma fuerza que las flores que comienzan a rodear su nueva vida.
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Me gustó todo excepto el final, porque lo sentí muy apresurado y justo cuando debían hablar y aclarar las cosas no lo hicieron. No tiene sentido que Hunter le creyera a Natalie en lugar de a Wren, que no fuera a aclarar la situación de inmediato y que incluso la dejara en visto. Y cuando por fin va a verla, se le olvida todo lo que tenía que decir y solo la besa y Wren lo acepta como si nada. Esto hace que no sepa qué calificación ponerle.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
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Me gustó todo excepto el final, porque lo sentí muy apresurado y justo cuando debían hablar y aclarar las cosas no lo hicieron. No tiene sentido que Hunter le creyera a Natalie en lugar de a Wren, que no fuera a aclarar la situación de inmediato y que incluso la dejara en visto. Y cuando por fin va a verla, se le olvida todo lo que tenía que decir y solo la besa y Wren lo acepta como si nada. Esto hace que no sepa qué calificación ponerle.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was such a great read, and I was hooked from the first chapter!
This story follows Wren & Hunter. Wren is a single mom who packs up with her son, moving from the city to her small hometown, hoping that a change of scenery will help with her writer's block and give them both a fresh start. Here we find Hunter, the grumpy cowboy who likes his peace and quiet, and also is working through a lot of his own history and trauma. He does have a lot in history and seeing everything he went through in life and all that he is trying to deal with was so heartbreaking but also really helped show why he acts the way he does and how he reacts towards Wren in the beginning. Seeing the relationship between him and Wren grow and evolve was so beautiful and heartwarming to read. I love that these two characters feel so real and have backgrounds that anyone can relate to. Plus, seeing their relationship grow and evolve was so great to read. There’s a bit of everything in this book: tension, tears, spice, and growth. All of the emotions were felt, and I loved every minute of it!
If you’re looking for a cute, easy-to-read contemporary romance with:
- Grumpy x sunshine
- Single mom
- Small town
- Cowboys
- Tension
- Slowburn
- Spice
This is definitely a book to check out!
Thank you NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
This story follows Wren & Hunter. Wren is a single mom who packs up with her son, moving from the city to her small hometown, hoping that a change of scenery will help with her writer's block and give them both a fresh start. Here we find Hunter, the grumpy cowboy who likes his peace and quiet, and also is working through a lot of his own history and trauma. He does have a lot in history and seeing everything he went through in life and all that he is trying to deal with was so heartbreaking but also really helped show why he acts the way he does and how he reacts towards Wren in the beginning. Seeing the relationship between him and Wren grow and evolve was so beautiful and heartwarming to read. I love that these two characters feel so real and have backgrounds that anyone can relate to. Plus, seeing their relationship grow and evolve was so great to read. There’s a bit of everything in this book: tension, tears, spice, and growth. All of the emotions were felt, and I loved every minute of it!
If you’re looking for a cute, easy-to-read contemporary romance with:
- Grumpy x sunshine
- Single mom
- Small town
- Cowboys
- Tension
- Slowburn
- Spice
This is definitely a book to check out!
Thank you NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Love Grows Wild is a heartfelt slow burn, small town romance about a single mom that pulls at your emotions. It was my first book by Winter Renshaw, but definitely not my last.
After being left at the altar, romance author Wren Jensen decides she needs a fresh start. She moves back to her small hometown with her adorable son Atticus, hoping it will reignite her creativity and inspire her to start writing again.
Hunter McCrae is the grumpy, single farmer living next door—her only neighbor for miles. He loves his quiet life on the farm, but everything changes when he meets Wren.
The chemistry between Wren and Hunter sizzled, and I loved how tender he was with Atticus. It felt like they were building a genuine, solid relationship based on openness and honesty about their intentions. However, that all changed when miscommunication and rumors started to come between them. They had a fight, and suddenly everything was perfect again after Hunter kissed Wren—like that single moment resolved everything. The ending felt rushed and left some issues unaddressed, which detracted from the overall emotional depth of their story.
Overall, this was a charming contemporary romance, and I was hooked from the very first page. I’ll definitely be exploring more of Winter Renshaw’s books.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for an early copy of this book.
After being left at the altar, romance author Wren Jensen decides she needs a fresh start. She moves back to her small hometown with her adorable son Atticus, hoping it will reignite her creativity and inspire her to start writing again.
Hunter McCrae is the grumpy, single farmer living next door—her only neighbor for miles. He loves his quiet life on the farm, but everything changes when he meets Wren.
The chemistry between Wren and Hunter sizzled, and I loved how tender he was with Atticus. It felt like they were building a genuine, solid relationship based on openness and honesty about their intentions. However, that all changed when miscommunication and rumors started to come between them. They had a fight, and suddenly everything was perfect again after Hunter kissed Wren—like that single moment resolved everything. The ending felt rushed and left some issues unaddressed, which detracted from the overall emotional depth of their story.
Overall, this was a charming contemporary romance, and I was hooked from the very first page. I’ll definitely be exploring more of Winter Renshaw’s books.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for an early copy of this book.
February 19, 2026
After being left by her fiancé on their wedding day, author Wren returns to her hometown with her five-year-old son, Atticus. Battling writer’s block, she’s hoping a change of scenery will help her find her spark again.
Wren has been disappointed by too many men to even consider a new relationship. She’s strong, fierce, and independent - and determined to stay that way.
Enter Hunter: her broody farmer neighbor who wants the property she’s just bought. Known as the town’s most eligible bachelor, Hunter has no interest in romance, only his farm. That is, until he meets Wren.
They try to keep their distance, but the pull between them is undeniable. As Wren spends more time with Hunter, her inspiration slowly returns. She begins writing letters to him, and soon a story starts to form - one inspired by her new life, her healing, and him.
“𝙁𝙖𝙞𝙧 𝙥𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙥𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙮. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙙𝙚𝙛𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙚, 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙖 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙖 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡.”
This story gave me butterflies, the yearning was so good. It was beautiful and emotional in all the right ways. I absolutely loved this small-town, grumpy x sunshine, found-family romance.
Thanks to Winter Renshaw and NetGalley for the ARC!
4.5 ⭐
Wren has been disappointed by too many men to even consider a new relationship. She’s strong, fierce, and independent - and determined to stay that way.
Enter Hunter: her broody farmer neighbor who wants the property she’s just bought. Known as the town’s most eligible bachelor, Hunter has no interest in romance, only his farm. That is, until he meets Wren.
They try to keep their distance, but the pull between them is undeniable. As Wren spends more time with Hunter, her inspiration slowly returns. She begins writing letters to him, and soon a story starts to form - one inspired by her new life, her healing, and him.
“𝙁𝙖𝙞𝙧 𝙥𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙥𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙮. 𝘽𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙙𝙚𝙛𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙚, 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙖 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙖 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡.”
This story gave me butterflies, the yearning was so good. It was beautiful and emotional in all the right ways. I absolutely loved this small-town, grumpy x sunshine, found-family romance.
Thanks to Winter Renshaw and NetGalley for the ARC!
4.5 ⭐
December 4, 2025
This book was so good!
It was a sweet, steamy romance filled with swoonworthy moments. It was also not afraid to bring out emotional punches.
Hunters backstory absolutely broke my heart. When you hear it, it makes his whole character and his actions make sense. His family went through a tragedy and his parents ran away from the feelings instead of feeling them. Though he was 16 at the time this still made an impression on him and still does years later. When we meet him he has no idea how to use his words to express what he’s thinking or feeling. But he quickly learns how to show them in other ways. And he does this by showing up, even when he’s not asked to, over and over again. It makes for very cute moments.
Wren is one strong and independent woman. After she is jilted and her(and her son’s) world implodes. She manages to take them back to her hometown where she plans to grow roots and heal. And heal she does. It’s a bit cliche to say Hunter helped her heal. But he did. Through every doubt and insecurity her ex gave her, he shows up and shows her how wrong her ex was. It’s truly healing to see a character who just wants to be the one someone chooses finally get chosen!
It was a sweet, steamy romance filled with swoonworthy moments. It was also not afraid to bring out emotional punches.
Hunters backstory absolutely broke my heart. When you hear it, it makes his whole character and his actions make sense. His family went through a tragedy and his parents ran away from the feelings instead of feeling them. Though he was 16 at the time this still made an impression on him and still does years later. When we meet him he has no idea how to use his words to express what he’s thinking or feeling. But he quickly learns how to show them in other ways. And he does this by showing up, even when he’s not asked to, over and over again. It makes for very cute moments.
Wren is one strong and independent woman. After she is jilted and her(and her son’s) world implodes. She manages to take them back to her hometown where she plans to grow roots and heal. And heal she does. It’s a bit cliche to say Hunter helped her heal. But he did. Through every doubt and insecurity her ex gave her, he shows up and shows her how wrong her ex was. It’s truly healing to see a character who just wants to be the one someone chooses finally get chosen!
December 8, 2025
Stuck with writer's block and wanting some fresh air, Wren packs up, and along with her 4 year old son, they move back to her small town hometown, where she buys an old country house in the middle of no where. Well, not quite nowhere. There is one other home nearby that belongs to Hunter, the broody farmer who doesn't talk much but is always there to help anyone in the community when needed. He's secretive about his past, so has that mysterious vibe going on. Neither are looking for love. He's too busy running his farm, and she's tired of falling for the wrong men. But neither can deny the attraction. There are laughs. There are tears. There is a cute little fellow who is just itching to be a cowboy/farmer. There is spice. There is charm. There are some jerks. There is a little backstabbing/betrayal. (And/or assumed betrayal.) Wonderfully written characters. This is one of those romances that the couple both are adamant about not getting serious. Not getting emotions involved... until they realize it's too late for that. Wren's son Atticus, was always stealing the scene. Easy to read. Story flows smoothly. It is a well written story. Alternates POVs.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
So I switched several times between a 4, 3 or 2 ⭐️ rating but in the end I stuck with two. My reasoning for this is that the narrative between the two main characters was completely indistinguishable. If there wasn't a name above each chapter, I would have had no idea who's chapter it was. The writing was bland and the characters were awful. The mmc being completely controlling and possessive and no matter how much you try to emphasize that it is romantic - this level of controlling behaviour is NOT! There are red flags everywhere. From punching someone because fmc is called a "smut" writer, to keep reiterating that someone you have just met is yours (both vocally and physically)!
The whole town is full of juvenile imbeciles that never seem to have grown up. I find this almost insulting of small town populations. The only characters that MAY have had some depth weren't really written about.
Some of the chapters were way too short and I felt like I was just flipping in and out at supersonic speed.
As a side-note: Chapter 14 - how would she turn the tv on if she had no power? This detail bugged me immensely!
The whole town is full of juvenile imbeciles that never seem to have grown up. I find this almost insulting of small town populations. The only characters that MAY have had some depth weren't really written about.
Some of the chapters were way too short and I felt like I was just flipping in and out at supersonic speed.
As a side-note: Chapter 14 - how would she turn the tv on if she had no power? This detail bugged me immensely!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wren Jensen thought her life was settled until she was left at the altar and hit with writer’s block that wouldn’t budge. With few options left, she moves back to Colton Valley with her five-year-old son, hoping the quiet and familiar surroundings will help her find her footing again. What she does not expect is Hunter McCrae, the grumpy farmer next door who wanted the property for himself and prefers his solitude untouched.
Wren is focused on rebuilding her life, not falling in love, and Hunter has no interest in neighbors or complications. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is to ignore what is growing between them. I loved the slow burn romance and especially Hunter’s bond with Atticus. There is solid spice, and while miscommunication is not usually my favorite trope, it worked here because it came from real insecurity and fear. Wren struggles to believe she deserves the kind of love she wants, and Hunter has to face that loving again is worth the risk, even after loss.
Thank you, Winter Renshaw, Montlake and NetGalley for opportunity to read this the ARC!
Wren is focused on rebuilding her life, not falling in love, and Hunter has no interest in neighbors or complications. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is to ignore what is growing between them. I loved the slow burn romance and especially Hunter’s bond with Atticus. There is solid spice, and while miscommunication is not usually my favorite trope, it worked here because it came from real insecurity and fear. Wren struggles to believe she deserves the kind of love she wants, and Hunter has to face that loving again is worth the risk, even after loss.
Thank you, Winter Renshaw, Montlake and NetGalley for opportunity to read this the ARC!
December 11, 2025
Going home is a place where the heart heals and you learn about your self worth. Wren has been away from Colton Valley for far too long. City life was good but it's time to come home. She's living on an acre of land with her son Attics hoping to find a place to finally lay some roots.
Her neighbor is a local resident that people think kindly of but Hunter is a loner and had his eye on that land. He thinks this city girl will be here until she realizes that farm life is not for everyone and is willing to wait until he can full fill promise from long ago.
When they met, this strong man of little words, speaks volume to her in his action. His quiet, strong stern demeanor is someone that she creates in her novels, never did she think he would be a real person. In time, they heal one another and the love and respect they have for one another is the special rare type that your read in books and dream of. Wren, Attics and Hunter find their happy ending.
So beautiful and heartwarming, it was sad to finish but it just felt right.
Her neighbor is a local resident that people think kindly of but Hunter is a loner and had his eye on that land. He thinks this city girl will be here until she realizes that farm life is not for everyone and is willing to wait until he can full fill promise from long ago.
When they met, this strong man of little words, speaks volume to her in his action. His quiet, strong stern demeanor is someone that she creates in her novels, never did she think he would be a real person. In time, they heal one another and the love and respect they have for one another is the special rare type that your read in books and dream of. Wren, Attics and Hunter find their happy ending.
So beautiful and heartwarming, it was sad to finish but it just felt right.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Five-Star Review
Whew! My girl Winter knew exactly what she was doing with Love Grows Wild—I could NOT put this book down. From start to finish, this story completely had me in its grip, and I devoured every page.
Two people carrying so much heartbreak from their pasts come together, both determined to fight against becoming anything more than temporary. The push and pull, the emotional walls, the quiet moments of vulnerability—Winter Renshaw delivers it all so beautifully. Watching them try (and fail) to outrun their feelings was equal parts heartbreaking and swoon-worthy, because let’s be honest… love was always going to win.
And can we talk about Atticus? The absolute cutest five-year-old who stole my heart and added so much warmth and depth to the story. He made every moment sweeter and every emotional beat hit just a little harder.
Love Grows Wild is emotional, tender, and impossible to put down. It’s a reminder that even the most guarded hearts can find their way home. Winter Renshaw does what she does best—and this one is a must-read. 💛📚
Whew! My girl Winter knew exactly what she was doing with Love Grows Wild—I could NOT put this book down. From start to finish, this story completely had me in its grip, and I devoured every page.
Two people carrying so much heartbreak from their pasts come together, both determined to fight against becoming anything more than temporary. The push and pull, the emotional walls, the quiet moments of vulnerability—Winter Renshaw delivers it all so beautifully. Watching them try (and fail) to outrun their feelings was equal parts heartbreaking and swoon-worthy, because let’s be honest… love was always going to win.
And can we talk about Atticus? The absolute cutest five-year-old who stole my heart and added so much warmth and depth to the story. He made every moment sweeter and every emotional beat hit just a little harder.
Love Grows Wild is emotional, tender, and impossible to put down. It’s a reminder that even the most guarded hearts can find their way home. Winter Renshaw does what she does best—and this one is a must-read. 💛📚
December 3, 2025
So worth the wait!
I am a huge Winter Renshaw fan, so when she comes out with a new story, I go into it knowing it's going to wreck me in all the good ways.
This is the story of Hunter and Wren.
Wren is hoping that going home will help her heal. She and her son have been through the wringer, and she falls in love with a farmhouse that could have been written in a story of her own. She is a romance author and has found herself not being able to write about love. Love that hasn't happened to her yet.
Hunter is the epitome of "Still waters run deep." He is a no-frills, no-drama hero who comes into Wren's world at just the right time. He is dealing with some scars of his own and has settled into his own world, where he is alone and thinks that's OK.
From the sunflower notebook to the beautiful countryside that Ms. Renshaw creates, the readers are going to fall hard for the characters in this story. It was hard to put this down once I got started.
I am a huge Winter Renshaw fan, so when she comes out with a new story, I go into it knowing it's going to wreck me in all the good ways.
This is the story of Hunter and Wren.
Wren is hoping that going home will help her heal. She and her son have been through the wringer, and she falls in love with a farmhouse that could have been written in a story of her own. She is a romance author and has found herself not being able to write about love. Love that hasn't happened to her yet.
Hunter is the epitome of "Still waters run deep." He is a no-frills, no-drama hero who comes into Wren's world at just the right time. He is dealing with some scars of his own and has settled into his own world, where he is alone and thinks that's OK.
From the sunflower notebook to the beautiful countryside that Ms. Renshaw creates, the readers are going to fall hard for the characters in this story. It was hard to put this down once I got started.
December 10, 2025
I am so proud to be a part of her Street Team reading the ARC for "Love Grows Wild"! Just finished reading and ready to do it again. It's been a while since I was brought to tears, and this one did it for me. I was so invested in Hunter and Wren's story holding my breath for the outcome. Not to mention sweet little Atticus (the cause of some tears). The backstories for both leads were very touching and sad, but it didn't make the two become jaded and mean to the world. It made it easy to see there may be drama happening around them or situations to cause things to end badly, but any misunderstanding was taken with grace and a calmness that made the story very real. There were little quips and inner monologues that had me laughing out loud or jumping with indignation. And let's not forget a kid pulling at your heart strings. This was refreshing! Winter Renshaw, this is definitely a #1 hit! Literally couldn't put it down!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another slow burn that one has come to expect from Winter Renshaw.
Wren Jensen moves back to her home town in hopes of escaping the writer's block that has plagued her since she was recently left at the alter. A cute farm house and the chance to raise her son in a quieter environment seem to be just what she needs.
Hunter McCrae, owns one of the largest farms in the county, and almost all the land along the river. Except one 40 acre spot with a cute farm house. He's got a handshake deal with the owner to purchase if he ever wants to sell... Imagine his surprise to find a "citified" SUV in the driveway.
Niether want a relationship, they both have sworn them off. Wren, because it's what's best for her son, and Hunter partly because he's never felt that spark. This book is a sweet winding slow burn to a HEA. There's a bit of drama thrown in by the former prom queen, that raises all of the insecurities Hunter already has.
Love will win in the end
Wren Jensen moves back to her home town in hopes of escaping the writer's block that has plagued her since she was recently left at the alter. A cute farm house and the chance to raise her son in a quieter environment seem to be just what she needs.
Hunter McCrae, owns one of the largest farms in the county, and almost all the land along the river. Except one 40 acre spot with a cute farm house. He's got a handshake deal with the owner to purchase if he ever wants to sell... Imagine his surprise to find a "citified" SUV in the driveway.
Niether want a relationship, they both have sworn them off. Wren, because it's what's best for her son, and Hunter partly because he's never felt that spark. This book is a sweet winding slow burn to a HEA. There's a bit of drama thrown in by the former prom queen, that raises all of the insecurities Hunter already has.
Love will win in the end
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC REVIEW | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐|🌶️
Love Grows Wild - Winter Renshaw
I want to pack up and move to this small town immediately!
Hunter is your classic stoic small town farmer with that gruff exterior, but watching his walls slowly come down as the story progresses was so satisfying. He starts off reserved and guarded and then quietly becomes someone you can’t help but root for.
Wren was such a lovely contrast to him. A romance author who still believes in love despite having her heart broken more times than she deserved. Add in her being a single mum to darling Atticus and my heart was fully invested. Their meet cutes were sweet and natural and felt so perfectly small town.
What really brought this story together for me was how they handled their pasts. Seeing Hunter open up about his brother Ben and Wren sharing her insecurities from her ex fiancé Nick created such a strong emotional bridge between them. Those moments felt vulnerable and genuine and really deepened their connection.
I also really appreciated the way miscommunication was used here. It actually drove the plot rather than my frustration. The moment at the end wasn’t about Hunter failing to communicate but choosing restraint and growth, which made it feel intentional and meaningful.
I loved this read. If you’re looking for a quick cozy small town romance with heart this one is absolutely perfect.
Love Grows Wild - Winter Renshaw
I want to pack up and move to this small town immediately!
Hunter is your classic stoic small town farmer with that gruff exterior, but watching his walls slowly come down as the story progresses was so satisfying. He starts off reserved and guarded and then quietly becomes someone you can’t help but root for.
Wren was such a lovely contrast to him. A romance author who still believes in love despite having her heart broken more times than she deserved. Add in her being a single mum to darling Atticus and my heart was fully invested. Their meet cutes were sweet and natural and felt so perfectly small town.
What really brought this story together for me was how they handled their pasts. Seeing Hunter open up about his brother Ben and Wren sharing her insecurities from her ex fiancé Nick created such a strong emotional bridge between them. Those moments felt vulnerable and genuine and really deepened their connection.
I also really appreciated the way miscommunication was used here. It actually drove the plot rather than my frustration. The moment at the end wasn’t about Hunter failing to communicate but choosing restraint and growth, which made it feel intentional and meaningful.
I loved this read. If you’re looking for a quick cozy small town romance with heart this one is absolutely perfect.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book started out strong. But there were two big things that turned me off:
👉🏻A wham-bam-thank you ma’am encounter that seemed abrupt and out of place
👉🏻The hero cold cocks a guy for saying something offensive about the heroine (but not even to the hero, the hero just overhears it), which again seemed abrupt and out of place
And neither of these things is romantic to me.
I wanted to like this one - after all, there really is a shortage of romance books written about older couples (older = hero and heroine in their mid 30s+). But this one felt like it was more about the heat than the heart. The relationship between the hero and heroine could have developed slowly and organically, as neighbors might, but I felt like it was rushed with too much emphasis on the chemistry and not enough about the emotional connection. And if you tell me in your synopsis these people have built walls, it should take more than a couple interactions for those walls to come down.
Overall, this was an okay book. It did take me a whole week to read it though, which included three plane rides where I couldn’t be distracted by anything else. So that is telling, at least for me…
* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
👉🏻A wham-bam-thank you ma’am encounter that seemed abrupt and out of place
👉🏻The hero cold cocks a guy for saying something offensive about the heroine (but not even to the hero, the hero just overhears it), which again seemed abrupt and out of place
And neither of these things is romantic to me.
I wanted to like this one - after all, there really is a shortage of romance books written about older couples (older = hero and heroine in their mid 30s+). But this one felt like it was more about the heat than the heart. The relationship between the hero and heroine could have developed slowly and organically, as neighbors might, but I felt like it was rushed with too much emphasis on the chemistry and not enough about the emotional connection. And if you tell me in your synopsis these people have built walls, it should take more than a couple interactions for those walls to come down.
Overall, this was an okay book. It did take me a whole week to read it though, which included three plane rides where I couldn’t be distracted by anything else. So that is telling, at least for me…
* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
November 26, 2025
I am a firm believer in “When in doubt, cowboy romance it out.” Well….In this case more like farmer romance but details details.
When searching for arcs to read this one immediately caught my eye. I was hooked from the beginning, all of the tropes aligned perfectly and I felt this was written for me!! I loved all of the characters in this and loved how the main characters developed. I wish we got to see a bit more of the side characters in this, some of the chapters felt repetitive at times but the outcome made it all worth it.
The connection between Wren and Hunter was absolutely jumping off the page. I found myself rooting for these two from the very beginning and just begging for them to just talk it out.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read and I’m looking forward to going back and reading more from this author!
When searching for arcs to read this one immediately caught my eye. I was hooked from the beginning, all of the tropes aligned perfectly and I felt this was written for me!! I loved all of the characters in this and loved how the main characters developed. I wish we got to see a bit more of the side characters in this, some of the chapters felt repetitive at times but the outcome made it all worth it.
The connection between Wren and Hunter was absolutely jumping off the page. I found myself rooting for these two from the very beginning and just begging for them to just talk it out.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read and I’m looking forward to going back and reading more from this author!
November 28, 2025
“Love Grows Wild” Winter Renshaw
Finally, an FMC who is around my age!!! Often times, many romance books have women in their 20-30’s. So it was a pleasant surprise. The author did a great job with the story. I also liked her writing style and actually read this entire book in one sitting, after cooking and eating thanksgiving dinner while my family watched football.
Wren is 42, a mom, and an author. Her fiancé ends up leaving her so she picks up her life, and moves her and her young son back to the small town she grew up in. There, she moves to a farm house that ends up being pretty close to a neighbor named Hunter.
In this book, you see Wren struggle with past traumas, you see how she deals with her struggles and ultimately grow from it.
Overall, I very much enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I was able to obtain this e-arc through Netgalley.
Finally, an FMC who is around my age!!! Often times, many romance books have women in their 20-30’s. So it was a pleasant surprise. The author did a great job with the story. I also liked her writing style and actually read this entire book in one sitting, after cooking and eating thanksgiving dinner while my family watched football.
Wren is 42, a mom, and an author. Her fiancé ends up leaving her so she picks up her life, and moves her and her young son back to the small town she grew up in. There, she moves to a farm house that ends up being pretty close to a neighbor named Hunter.
In this book, you see Wren struggle with past traumas, you see how she deals with her struggles and ultimately grow from it.
Overall, I very much enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I was able to obtain this e-arc through Netgalley.
December 11, 2025
Okay, I am totally swooning right now. I stayed up way too late finishing Love Grows Wild and I have zero regrets! Winter Renshaw really knows how to write some serious chemistry.
We are talking top-tier Enemies to Lovers here, folks. The banter? Absolute fire. But I have to be real, the main character really tested my patience! She was so guarded and kept pushing him away even when he was being amazing. I found myself literally yelling at my kindle, "Just let him love you!" It was super aggravating watching her fight her feelings for so long, but honestly? It made the payoff so much sweeter when she finally caved.
The hero was total book boyfriend material, grumpy but protective. I’m giving this 4 stars because while the angst had me stressed out, the romance was top notch. If you want a book that makes you want to scream and then hug your pillow, this is the one.
We are talking top-tier Enemies to Lovers here, folks. The banter? Absolute fire. But I have to be real, the main character really tested my patience! She was so guarded and kept pushing him away even when he was being amazing. I found myself literally yelling at my kindle, "Just let him love you!" It was super aggravating watching her fight her feelings for so long, but honestly? It made the payoff so much sweeter when she finally caved.
The hero was total book boyfriend material, grumpy but protective. I’m giving this 4 stars because while the angst had me stressed out, the romance was top notch. If you want a book that makes you want to scream and then hug your pillow, this is the one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book has shot straight up to my favorite book of all time. Renshaw absolutely outdid herself with this remarkable story. I couldn’t get enough of these two! So incredibly beautiful. Highly recommended. I FREAKING LOVED IT SO MUCH!
This book is everything I love about romance and so much more. This book has risen up to my all time favorite book. The way that Renshaw wove such an emotional and heartfelt story with beauty and grace. Ahhhh..I just loved it so much. I was throughly enchanted with each character and watching walls come down. The MFC was so well written and the MMC…swoon! His grumpiness was such a cover up for the soft mushy character he truly was inside and the way these two supported one another quietly was so good. Throw in an adorable 4 yr old and you get romance excellence. Love Grows Wild by Winter Renshaw is me book that needs to be added to your the list asap. Coming March 2026. Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher/author for my advanced copy of this book.
This book is everything I love about romance and so much more. This book has risen up to my all time favorite book. The way that Renshaw wove such an emotional and heartfelt story with beauty and grace. Ahhhh..I just loved it so much. I was throughly enchanted with each character and watching walls come down. The MFC was so well written and the MMC…swoon! His grumpiness was such a cover up for the soft mushy character he truly was inside and the way these two supported one another quietly was so good. Throw in an adorable 4 yr old and you get romance excellence. Love Grows Wild by Winter Renshaw is me book that needs to be added to your the list asap. Coming March 2026. Highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher/author for my advanced copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Love Grows Wild by Winter Renshaw is an interesting small town romance with some unique aspects thrown in which I believe may have come from this author’s own life, namely that Wren is a romance writer. I love Ms. Renshaw’s writing and have enjoyed all the books I’ve read by her. She has a way of pulling me into the story line and getting me very much invested in her characters. I loved that Wren took control of her life when some women would bury themselves under some blankets and give up. Not Wren – she took her very sweet little boy Atticus (love his name) bought a farm and took control of her life. I loved that Wren was a strong female character. I very much enjoyed this read and I’m happy that Ms. Renshaw is back to writing again. I’m very grateful to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Grows Wild by Winter Renshaw was absolutely phenomenal! I love Winter's writing so much, and I've definitely been missing it. I believe she took a much-deserved break. From what I have gathered, this book is based on Ms. Renshaw's own love story, and her very own farmer. I think that is so exciting, and you could absolutely feel the love coming from the pages. Congratulations on your upcoming release, Winter!
Wren and Hunter were great! Their story was about two people with unique histories coming together to create a new story. It was heartbreakingly beautiful. I loved them both so much, and I loved the small town setting. There was just so much to love. I am so looking forward to the rest of the world getting this book, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for Ms. Renshaw. Again, congratulations and phenomenal job!
COMING MARCH 2026!
Wren and Hunter were great! Their story was about two people with unique histories coming together to create a new story. It was heartbreakingly beautiful. I loved them both so much, and I loved the small town setting. There was just so much to love. I am so looking forward to the rest of the world getting this book, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for Ms. Renshaw. Again, congratulations and phenomenal job!
COMING MARCH 2026!
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