Wildwood Hearts

Wildwood Meadows #1

by Haven Fox

He doesn’t believe in roots. Lila is nothing but roots—planted deep in Wildwood Meadows, running Chapter & Crumb, knowing every neighbor by name.

They shouldn’t work.

But chemistry doesn’t care about logic. Attraction doesn’t follow rules.

When threats against her shop escalate, he can’t walk away. Won’t leave her vulnerable. Refuses to let anyone hurt what’s become precious to him.

In protecting her, he discovers something maybe home isn’t a place. Maybe it’s a person.

Maybe it’s her.

Small-town secrets. Big-city danger. Chemistry that rewrites all the rules.

Genres: Romance, Small Town Romance

388 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 15, 2026

Reviews

[Reading With April · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 🌟 🌶🌶

I enjoyed the romance part of this book and I absolutely adored Easton, but I was let down with the suspense part of the story.

The suspense started kind of early so I thought this was going to be something I couldn't put down, but it didn't really pick up and "getting the bad guy" was too easy and wrapped up too quick.

I'll probably still continue the series and see how book #2 goes.

[Soft and Sinister · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easton Holt is the grumpiest blue-collar MMC, and honestly, who doesn’t love that? Returning to his small town to help his adoptive mother, Easton immediately notices Lila and is completely enamoured… even if he’s far too grumpy to admit it. Lila is pure sunshine and rainbows, but with real depth, and she’s exactly what Easton needs. Their sparks fly fast, and the chemistry absolutely sizzles.

Genre & Romance Style
Romantic Suspense
Grumpy / Sunshine
Small Town

Characters
Easton is a strong, layered MMC carrying deep abandonment wounds that his adoptive parents tried to protect him from. His love for his blended family is beautiful, and the way he falls for Lila is next level. Lila is a joy, full of witty banter, warmth, and good vibes, while still feeling real and grounded.

Overall Thoughts
Beautifully written with banter that hits just right. The chemistry is on fire, and the supporting cast had me immediately craving the next book.

Best Quote
“Then fall apart,” I said. “I’ll still be here. Isn’t that what having a relationship is all about? Being there for each other and not being perfect. I’m here for the mess and everything in between.”

⭐️ 3.75-star read for me

[Marian. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh este libro si que fue una sorpresa! El romance,el suspenso, los protagonistas! todo me atrapo y de buena manera. La historia se lee rapida, todo fluye muy bien y eso fue lo que mas me gusto, un poco predecible pero no le quita nada a la lectura! Es la primera vez que leo a esta autora pero me gusto así que no puedo esperar para leer el segundo libro!

IR CON PRECAUSION YA QUE CONTIENE TEMAS PESADOS!

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lila runs her grandmother's bookstore while serving up tasty pastries. Easton has come home to help take care of his foster mom after a fall. He has no plans to stay that is until he meets Lila. While protecting Lila, he learns a few things. Will he stay in Wildwood Meadows with Lila?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Madison · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a sweet small town romance but I struggled to see the connection between Lila and Easton. The beginning of their relationship happened too quickly and there was no chemistry at all.

It was a cute story but I needed more chemistry and a build up to their relationship.

I liked the suspense aspect as well but it was very easy to work out who was behind it.

Thank you for the ARC.

[Aida Rivero · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wildwood Meadows
By Haven Fox
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
* 📚Bookstore Vibes
* 🚪Open Door Spice
* ✨Suspense
* 🌀Banter
* 🌞Grumpy/Sunshine
* 🏠 Small Town Romance
* 💪 Protective Hero
* 🦖 Meet-Cute Chaos
* 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Found Family
* 🔨 Blue Collar Hero
Wildwood Hearts is a delightful start to the Wildwood Meadows series, bringing a perfect mix of cozy vibes and sizzling chemistry! Set in a charming Oregon town where the scenery is as lush as the family drama is deep, the story centers on Lila Merrick. Lila has carefully built a sanctuary in Wildwood Meadows, running her late grandmother’s bookstore-café and hosting endearingly quirky themed book club nights—complete with inflatable dinosaur costumes. Her life is peaceful until the town’s newest blue-collar resident disrupts her carefully curated world with a grumpy attitude and an unexpected connection.
The banter in this book is top-tier, especially the hilarious "rating" system the leads develop: he rates her mouth-watering pastries while she rates his performance in other departments. It’s a playful, high-stakes game that quickly evolves into something much deeper as both characters confront their fears of staying in one place. Beyond the romance, Haven Fox excels at creating a "found family" atmosphere that makes you want to pack your bags and move to the meadows yourself. The supporting cast, including Lila’s tight-knit group of friends and quirky neighbors, adds layers of warmth and humor that balance out the more emotional, reflective moments of the plot.
Scheduled for release in January 2026, this novel is a must-read for fans of small-town romance who enjoy a "grumpy x sunshine" dynamic with a side of witty dialogue. It perfectly sets the stage for the rest of the trilogy, leaving readers eager to see what secrets the rest of the Holt family and the town of Wildwood Meadows are hiding. If you’re looking for a spicy, open-door romance that feels like a warm hug, this 2026 debut is the perfect way to kick off your reading year!

10/10 Would recommend this book to all family and friends.

[Karen Hunter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wildwood Hearts by Haven Fox was a really enjoyable small-town romance with a well-executed mystery woven throughout. The writing was smooth and immersive, making it easy to settle into the story and stay engaged.

I especially loved Lila and Eastern’s relationship. The slow burn felt natural and believable, and their connection developed at a pace that made sense for their characters. They were genuinely fun to read about, and their dynamic never felt forced.

The small town setting felt lived in and authentic. From Lila’s cafe and bookshop to Eastern’s ranch, the town had a strong sense of place. I would love to join Lila's book club and try all the treats she bakes. The side characters had enough depth to add richness to the story, and several of them felt clearly set up for future books, which makes me excited to continue the series.

The mystery element added an extra layer that kept me turning pages. The twists were well done and kept me guessing, and the suspense never overshadowed the romance. Both elements were well balanced and thoughtfully interwoven.

The ending was satisfying, and this book delivered exactly what I expected based on the genre and blurb. I would happily pick up other books in this series and would recommend this to readers who enjoy small town romance, light mystery, or a blend of both.

[Jenna · Rating 2 out of 5]

I loved the description of this and was eager to read it, I love a romantic suspense. However, I was left disappointed by both the romance and suspense. I didn't find the romance believable because it happened too quickly and I didn't feel the chemistry between the characters. It didn't read like an insta love, it just felt rushed. We didn't get to see the foundation for their relationship build. It went from 0 to 100 within 2 chapters. Eastern meets Lila once, barely knows her, and he rushes to her side when someone breaks into her house? It felt weird, like why is a stranger this concerned? They had barely even had a conversation.

With the suspense, you didn't feel the fear you typically would with a story like this. Something would happen and she'd be upset about it. They mentioned it a lot but outside of the big things there wasn't anything to kind of foster the fear or anxiety in the character. Then the way the "mystery" ended (it wasn't much of a mystery as to who was behind everything) was very anticlimactic. There was no excitement.

Then Lila as a character, it felt like it couldn't be decided what kind of personality she should have. Should she be really bubbly and happy or grumpy and sassy? Should she hide her feelings and act fine (so only Eastern can see how she feels) or should she wear her emotions on her sleeve? The character didn't really feel defined.

[ReviewsByNic · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wildwood Hearts by Haven Fox
4 out of 5 stars
ARC- January 15, 2026

Thank you Haven for the ARC of this lovely book. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion 💚

Wildwood Hearts is a small town romance with a bit of a roller-coaster of suspense and love. There are a couple events you don't entirely suspect will happen in this book, but when it shows up, it makes so much sense and helps develop the story nicely (though it is predictable).

If you want a read with bookshop vibes where the bakery owner also hosts a book club 📚, then look no further! Our FMC not only creates delicious items for the book of the month, but she also creates hints and does amazing reveals! Like who wouldn't love an inflatable dinosaur?! And we can't forget about our MMC. Not only is he handy and fixes something that would make anyone cry, he is also super protective and sweet. He would do anything for his family and the one he loves. It's honestly super sweet for Wildwood Hearts town grump 💘

I recommend a nice rainy day to read this book. Not one of those bright rainy days, but one that has some grey clouds and a medium downpour. Make sure to have some iced cookies and a warm drink to go with it 🥰

[Nikki B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wildwood Hearts is book 1 in the Wildwood Meadows series and is a small town, second chance romance with characters that you will just fall in love with.
Easton is back in his home town helping his former foster mother recover from a fall. He doesn't plan on staying, as he's spent years running from Wildwood Meadows.
Lila, however, loves her life in Wildwood Meadows. She enjoys running her grandmothers bookstore with themed book club nights.
When an incident occurs and puts Lila in harms way, Easton steps in to help. But when their worlds collide, she may be the reason he wants to stay.
The two of them have history and through trial and error, they learn that in order to build something between them, they must first learn to really rely on each other. They have a lot of great banter together since Easton is a grump and Lila is sassy. They also have great chemistry that seems natural. Wildwood Meadows is one of those towns where everyone is so sweet and they're all so close knit forming that found family bond. The story also has that suspense dynamic to it since Lila's home was broken into and she might be in possible danger, but also with the town and found family, the story also has very cozy vibes. I can't wait to read the next in the series!!!

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Wildwood Hearts, book one of the Wildwood Meadows series, is written by Haven Fox. This found family, grumpy x sunshine, small-town romance has cozy bookstore vibes with hilarious banter and an edge of suspense. This is my first book by this author, and it has been a wonderful experience. I am invested in this series already!

The book’s FMC is Lila Merrick, who runs her late grandmother’s bookstore/cafe and hosts the local book club. Lila has created a nice life for herself, and all that is disrupted when Easton, the MMC, shows up with his grumpy attitude. Easton and Lila’s chemistry is undeniable, and their banter made me laugh out loud many times. Also, an inflatable dinosaur is involved, which sets the tone of the book for me.

This book has a cozy vibe with a touch of suspense. The main characters and side characters are fun and relatable. I teared up, and then belly laughed at the end of this one. I loved the Holt family and look forward to reading the next book in the series.

Thanks to Haven Fox for gifting me a physical ARC of Wildwood Hearts. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own

[Marion · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the Wildwood Meadows Series and it is off to a good start. it is a small town cozy romance with a sliver of suspense. This is the story of Lila Merrick and Easton Holt. Lila is now the owner and running the Chapter & Crumb, her late grandmother’s bookstore/cafe. Happy and upbeat, she enthusiastically hosts the local book club as well. Easton and his grumpy attitude has returned home after being away. He has come home to help his foster mom recover from an injury. Easton left when his foster father died and he still isn't able to process his grief. The two have a cute meet involving an Inflatable dinosaur costume and cinnamon buns. This is their story. The book is well written and easy to read. I especially enjoyed all the found family in the story. A fun grumpy/sunshine read. When the danger to Lila increases it brings out all of Easton's protective instincts. I enjoyed this book. It was a new to me author and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Isabelle Houseknecht · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐️ 2 🌶️


Wildwood Hearts is a slow burn that takes place in a small town, Wildwood Meadows, in the PNW(Pacific Northwest). The FMC, Lila, runs a book/coffee shop named Chapter and Crumb. The MMC, Easton, is a construction company owner who is from the small town but had left and recently came back to help care for a family member, Maggie. I liked the book it was a great read. It drew you in and didn’t let you put it down. Lila is a driven but fun business lady and he’s a grumpy construction worker. Lila has a break in at her home and Easton and her connect through that and his need to protect her even though he doesn’t understand why he feels such feelings for Lila. Over the corse of the story they become closer as the police search for the person that broke into Lila’s home. There is some spice, open door, but its nothing to crazy. I love most things Haven Fox writes so for me it’s no surprise that I love this one too. I seen she already has two more books planned and I can not wait for more from Wildwoods Meadows in the future. There are a couple characters id love to see more of.

[Rachelle Whynott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wildwood Hearts is the first book in the Wildwood Meadows series and it does not disappoint. This book has really great characters and the best small town feel. Not only is the FMC the owner of her grandmothers shop but she runs the best book club probably in the world. I know, I know, that’s a big statement but you read it and let me know if you agree, I bet you will. You will also want to visit this town just for the book club. I’m in love with it.

This book is romance with a little suspense as well, which is a fun twist on your typical romance story. I really enjoyed the ride that Lila and Easton were on. The descriptions of the town and people were lush and made you feel like you knew these people and this town and were really rooting for them.

The next book focuses on a different couple but is someone that we already know from this book so I’m even more excited to continue on this journey in Wildwood Meadows.

I had the pleasure of receiving an ARC of this book and I am leaving my honest review.

[Malini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Small town love by MeemsAngel82

This was a well written story about a delightful little town and a close family. The plot was interesting and aside from the romance we have some drama as our h finds herself being threatened by a mysterious person seemingly over something they think they should be getting. This h was a lovely girl and had me warming up to her right away as she pleases her book and cafe customers. This H is a broody man but she warms him up.

They fall for one another as they all wonder who and why she's being threatened.

She was a warm person and he was a grumpy one and having her thaw him and him letting her live rent free in his head was sweet. They had a steamy connection and everything just felt comforting. The town and this found family and the way they are together is so loving and just really nice. A place where you want to live and people you want to have your back.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ingrid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Going into this book, I expected a light rom-com style small-town romance. What I got instead was something much more layered and emotionally grounded—in the best possible way. The story takes its time to develop, and the characters feel genuinely well thought out and fully formed.
Rather than relying on quick humor or surface-level tropes, the plot grows organically out of the characters themselves. Their backstories, choices, and personal growth are deeply woven into the storyline, which makes the romance feel meaningful and earned. Once everything falls into place, the overall arc comes together beautifully.
In the end, this turned out to be a really lovely and satisfying read—warm, engaging, and emotionally rich. If you’re looking for a small-town romance with depth, strong character development, and a well-crafted story (even if it’s not a traditional rom-com), this book is definitely worth picking up.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Virginia Danyow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has it all. A grumpy main man, A strong woman with a traumatic past, and cinnamon rolls!

Easton returns home to help his mom who is recovering from a significant injury. Lila runs the bookstore/bakery in town and makes the best cinnamon rolls around. When Easton goes in to the store he runs into Lila, well actually she runs into him...while wearing an inflatable dinosaur costume. But nothing about these two is extinct. When someone threatens Lila, and tries to cause her harm, Easton makes it his job to protect her. Together they build something sweet, but their pasts might just be too much to let them be happy.

Haven Fox writes a great book, with colorful narratives, character banter that adds humor, and just enough spice. I can't wait for the next two books in the series! Absolutely worth the read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Serena · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m giving Wildwood Hearts, Book 1 in the Wildwood Meadows series by Haven Fox, 4 stars. This was a heartfelt, romance-focused story that drew me in with its emotional depth and charming small-town setting. The connection between the main characters felt genuine and steadily built, making it easy to become invested in their journey.

One of the strengths of this book is the way Haven Fox develops her characters. Their emotions, vulnerabilities, and personal growth were well portrayed, and I appreciated how the romance unfolded naturally rather than feeling rushed. The setting of Wildwood Meadows added warmth and familiarity to the story, creating the perfect backdrop for a love story rooted in healing and connection.

Overall, Wildwood Hearts was an emotionally satisfying and engaging read that left me eager to continue the series. I’m looking forward to spending more time in Wildwood Meadows and seeing how the remaining characters’ stories unfold.

[SJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 1 of Wildwood Meadows Series

Small town romance with suspense and full of spice and swoon is the perfect combination for a cozy read.

I was hooked after the meet-cute and hilarious banter. I ate it up. With wonderful characters and the sweetest small town in Oregon, this was the perfect setup for a great series.

I love Lila, she's living my bookstore/bakery dream life in a small town. She is such a big ball of sunshine, her inner monologue had me cracking up.

Easton is broody and swoony. What can I say I have a thing for a grumpy man who's all heartfelt and gooey inside with a sexy mouth.

This book was such a sweet, fun, lighthearted, and spicy read.

Tropes:
Small town
Grumpy +Sunshine
Protective MMC
Best friend's brother
Found Family
Spicy
Dual POV

Love the Holt family, can't wait for the next book in the series.

[Jessica Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went down to 4 stars because while I loved it I felt like it took a little to long for the inevitable to happen and made me want to stop reading because of it. And I am truly thankful that I did not stop because this story once it got going had me in my feels and I love that he found some healing along the way and didn't give up on her when she pushed him away and actually didn't just use his words to show that he was there for her but also put it into action with things that shows he cares about her. I was ecstatic when she finally let her walls down and surrendered to what could be. Everything else in the background that happened was honestly a plus to everything And I will definitely be reading the next book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kelly Schneider · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wildwood Hearts is a heartfelt, emotionally rich romance that pulled me in from the very beginning. Haven Fox creates characters that feel real and relatable, with chemistry that builds naturally and keeps you invested in their journey.

I loved how the romance unfolded—layered, slow-burning, and full of moments that made me smile, swoon, and ache right along with the characters. The setting adds an extra layer of charm and atmosphere, making the story feel immersive and cozy while still packing an emotional

While a few moments felt slightly predictable, the emotional payoff and strong character connections more than made up for it. Overall, this was a sweet, engaging read that delivered plenty of heart, and I’d happily recommend it to romance readers looking for a cozy, emotional love story.

Can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable read in this first instalment of a new series. Lila Merrick is now running the Chapter & Crumb since her grandmother passed away, and she’s definitely taken notice of Easton Holt who’s returned home to Wildwood Meadows after a far too long absence. Easton is interested in more than Lila’s cinnamon rolls but he’s not planning to stick around. As the drama begins to unfold and Lila is caught up in the middle of it all Easton takes it upon himself to be her protector. The chemistry between them is undeniable and when their slow burn romance ignites it’s all consuming as they work through the ups and downs of small town living and pasts that won’t stay where they belong. Thanks to BookSprout and the author for the opportunity to read and review her work.

[Romantasy Bookbird · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

Lila and Easton bump into each other and have an instant attraction when Easton is called back home to help care for his mum. Lila has baggage from and past relationship and Easton from a troubled childhood but they work to overcome their traumas to develop something better for themselves.

There’s some drama unfolding around Lila and our grumpy MMC is there to be her protector, comfort and fix that what is broke. This was an easy read with snippets of drama but nothing earth shattering, some of the plot was a little predictable and might have liked to have seen more into our other characters but the family dynamics are warming. A good read when you just need something easy to escape to.

[Patricia Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a new to me author that I have the privilege of being in a group for her books. I am so happy with this book.
OMG, I did know what to expect with this slow burn book. if you love wonderful characters and banter to go along with it, then this book is for you.
The couple had to make it through some horrible situations within the story. But they both found that leaning on each other would carry them through anything. With supposed family trying to sabotage the work that Lila had down within this small town and Easton trying to navigate his past, They both find themselves intwined with each other's happiness and life.
Five stars from me on this book. I cannot write enough praises for this book.

[De Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a really engaging read. I had a hard time putting it down to sleep. Spoiler alert I didn’t put it down - that’s what coffee is for. I was so locked in. Easton is one grumpy MMC and honestly we love him for it. But grumpy isn’t the only about him that matters. He has a lot more to him than meets the eye, or that he wants to show. Lila is the embodiment of sunshine, but she’s not just a surface character like so many others in this trope. The depth that Haven gives to the characters makes them so much more relatable and lovable in a way many others authors miss. The banter and sass is fire. And the chemistry between the MCs is perfection. This book reads so authentic. And the ending was so satisfying.

[Nathalie DeSousa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great and addictive story that marries suspense, love, steam and a sweet relationship.

Lila has come to town to help in her grandmother's bakery/bookstore, she is sweet, carefree, and fun. Her meet cute with Easton is funny and charged with insta attraction. He is a grump who is taken and attracted to her sunshine, their banter is delicious, their interactions charged, and she might be the reason he returns to town fully.

Their relationship develops slowly and intensely, but when danger comes close to her, he jumps into action and shows his protective side bringing more of that magnetism into the read!

A great love story that will keep you entertained!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 1 of the Wildwood Meadows Series.

'A small-town romance about found family, second chances, and discovering that the person who makes you want to stay is worth every fear you've been running from.'

The characters drove the storyline and they were so very appealing and likeable and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was excellent and solidly drawn. All in all a great start to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ashley Virtus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely love this book By Haven Fox. It was a very well written. The story moves along quickly. Easton has recently come back to help care for his adoptive mother, while Lila is working to keep chapter and crumb running smoothly. From their first interaction in this story have amazing chemistry. They finally get out of their own way and see that they are better together. This is a small town romance with a bit of suspense. I highly recommend this, and cant wait for the next book in the series!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Samantha Millican · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in the Wildwood Meadows series, Wildwood Hearts is a small town romance between a baker and a man with no desire to stay in town. Lila runs her grandmother’s bookstore while serving up delectable pastries to serve with the book of the month feature. Easton has come home to help his foster mom after a fall, has no intention of staying after she recuperates. That’s until Lila enters his orbit. Second chances in a small town, grumpy/sunshine dynamic, fun banter between the two, a little suspense, and plenty of chemistry made this such an enjoyable read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Melly · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

Wildwood Hearts was such a cozy, charming read. The small-town setting and bookstore café vibes made Wildwood Meadows feel warm and lived-in, and I loved the sense of community throughout the story.

Lila is easy to root for, and Easton’s grumpy, guarded personality made their grumpy/sunshine dynamic really fun to read. Their chemistry felt natural and the slow build of their relationship worked well.

The light suspense element added some tension, though the resolution felt a little quick, which is the only reason this wasn’t a full five stars for me.

Overall, this was a sweet, engaging romance with great atmosphere and lovable characters. Definitely recommended if you enjoy small-town romances with cozy vibes.

Thank you to Booksprout and the publisher for the eARC.