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Harmony Hills #1
Fragile Hopes
Not yet published
Expected 24 Apr 26A spicy firefighter romance perfect for readers who love cozy small towns, age gaps, and slow-burning tension!
After three years in the city, Ivy Farnsworth never expected to return to Harmony Hills as her brother’s guardian. At twenty-six, she suddenly finds herself raising sixteen-year-old Joe and juggling two jobs, determined to give him the chance to chase his dream of becoming a pilot—even if it means putting her own on hold.
The last thing Ivy needs is a distraction, especially Ford Hayes, the firefighter next door. Wary and closed off after a messy divorce, Ford has no interest in giving love a second chance… until Ivy’s quick wit, quiet strength, and unwavering optimism begin to chip away at his walls.
Ivy has spent her life taking care of everyone else, but Ford is the first to truly show up for her. As their friendship slowly deepens into love, they must decide if they’re willing to risk their hearts—or if the weight of their pasts will keep them apart.
After three years in the city, Ivy Farnsworth never expected to return to Harmony Hills as her brother’s guardian. At twenty-six, she suddenly finds herself raising sixteen-year-old Joe and juggling two jobs, determined to give him the chance to chase his dream of becoming a pilot—even if it means putting her own on hold.
The last thing Ivy needs is a distraction, especially Ford Hayes, the firefighter next door. Wary and closed off after a messy divorce, Ford has no interest in giving love a second chance… until Ivy’s quick wit, quiet strength, and unwavering optimism begin to chip away at his walls.
Ivy has spent her life taking care of everyone else, but Ford is the first to truly show up for her. As their friendship slowly deepens into love, they must decide if they’re willing to risk their hearts—or if the weight of their pasts will keep them apart.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 24, 2026
3333 people want to read
About the author
Lisina Coney
5 books1,585 followersLisina Coney is an international bestselling romance author from Spain.
She’s a lover of slow-burn stories with happy endings and main characters who help readers feel less alone in their journeys.
When she’s not reading or writing, Lisina can be found fighting people over the last French fry, spending too much time on social media (Gen Z habits die hard), and pestering her two very patient cats.
She’s a lover of slow-burn stories with happy endings and main characters who help readers feel less alone in their journeys.
When she’s not reading or writing, Lisina can be found fighting people over the last French fry, spending too much time on social media (Gen Z habits die hard), and pestering her two very patient cats.
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February 6, 2026pre-read:
got the e-arc and buddy reading with gloria 🫶🏼✨ i’ve been seeing her comments on lisina coney’s posts on ig and just decided to ask her because we both seem to really want to read this book 🤭❤️ i’m sooo looking forward because i’ve been eyeing this one for MONTHS!!
got the e-arc and buddy reading with gloria 🫶🏼✨ i’ve been seeing her comments on lisina coney’s posts on ig and just decided to ask her because we both seem to really want to read this book 🤭❤️ i’m sooo looking forward because i’ve been eyeing this one for MONTHS!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I just knew it, this book was so good and destroyed my heart.
Do you know that feeling when you start a book and, without even realizing it, you’re filled with a sense of peace, freshness, and calm? That kind of read that feels like a deep breath. Well, that’s exactly what happens to me with Lisina’s books. Reading her is a safe bet, a guaranteed 5/5. There is nothing she writes that doesn’t include emotionally real characters, the kind that don’t just live on the page, but could easily be you, me, or maybe even your neighbor. I’ve always said this: when a book makes you think, keeps you up until 3 a.m., reading with teary eyes, it was a good book. And that is exactly what happened to me with this one.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for approving my request to read this ARC. I read it in 24 hours, and honestly, they were some of the best hours of my life.
Now, what is this story about? Ivy is a 26-year-old woman who has been through a lot. She lost her mother, her father is irresponsible, and she is the legal guardian of her younger brother Joe, a sweet, polite, and well-behaved 16-year-old who causes no trouble at all. Ivy works every job she can to put food on the table and clothes on her brother’s back. But she goes even further than that. She saves every single cent she can to give Joe what he wants most: to attend flight school. One of his biggest dreams is to become a pilot and take his sister to the most incredible places in the world.
Ivy is incredibly responsible. She worries about her boss, her coworkers, the lady who sells her sandwiches when she goes out to eat with her brother, basically everyone. Everyone except herself. She forgets that she is 26 years old, not someone with decades of life experience. She lives like an exhausted adult when she should be enjoying her youth. But how could you blame her? Life has been cruel to her. From a very young age, she learned how to do everything alone: be the older sister, the maternal figure, the authority, the provider. Thinking more about whether she’ll have enough money to send her brother to college than about herself sounds sad and painfully lonely.
Everything begins to change when she returns to Harmony Hills to officially become her brother’s guardian. And with that return comes her new neighbor, Ford. An elegant, sensual, exquisite, older, very handsome firefighter.
Ford is my knight in shining armor, the kind that truly only exists in books, and one I wish every woman could experience at least once in her life. He is grumpy and always looks like he’s frowning, but that’s just his exterior. Deep down, he’s just a ridiculously attractive firefighter who totally enjoys posing naked for the town calendars (sarcasm) (don’t hate me for this, Ford). He is 36 years old, divorced, and fully devoted to his job and planning for retirement. After being betrayed by his ex-wife, he lost all hope of finding love again, as disappointment is all he knows. He is the middle brother of three. Rhys, the oldest, is the town sheriff and has a five-year-old daughter. Nash, the youngest, owns the family lodge. They are a close-knit, loving family with present parents. Each brother has a distinct personality, but Ford stands out the most for his constant grumpy demeanor, which slowly starts to change as he gets to know Ivy.
Now that I’ve talked about them individually, let’s talk about their relationship. Ivy and Ford are absolutely IDIOTS (affectionately), because it’s painfully obvious how much they like each other. Joe, Ivy’s brother, is their number one fan. If it were up to him, they would’ve been married a week after meeting, and it’s one of the funniest parts of the book.
This book is a full-on slow burn. The kind where you don’t even realize how slow it is until you’re past 60 percent and nothing more has happened than accidental touches or them being extremely kind to one another. And somehow, it works perfectly. I honestly love stories that focus on finding yourself again, healing, and growing, especially when you’re surrounded by people who support you, push you forward, and believe in you.
Ivy, Joe, and Ford are characters I will never forget.
OH, and yes, I already know who’s next. That upcoming trope is one of my absolute FAVORITES, so I’m very ready for it.
Do you know that feeling when you start a book and, without even realizing it, you’re filled with a sense of peace, freshness, and calm? That kind of read that feels like a deep breath. Well, that’s exactly what happens to me with Lisina’s books. Reading her is a safe bet, a guaranteed 5/5. There is nothing she writes that doesn’t include emotionally real characters, the kind that don’t just live on the page, but could easily be you, me, or maybe even your neighbor. I’ve always said this: when a book makes you think, keeps you up until 3 a.m., reading with teary eyes, it was a good book. And that is exactly what happened to me with this one.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for approving my request to read this ARC. I read it in 24 hours, and honestly, they were some of the best hours of my life.
Now, what is this story about? Ivy is a 26-year-old woman who has been through a lot. She lost her mother, her father is irresponsible, and she is the legal guardian of her younger brother Joe, a sweet, polite, and well-behaved 16-year-old who causes no trouble at all. Ivy works every job she can to put food on the table and clothes on her brother’s back. But she goes even further than that. She saves every single cent she can to give Joe what he wants most: to attend flight school. One of his biggest dreams is to become a pilot and take his sister to the most incredible places in the world.
Ivy is incredibly responsible. She worries about her boss, her coworkers, the lady who sells her sandwiches when she goes out to eat with her brother, basically everyone. Everyone except herself. She forgets that she is 26 years old, not someone with decades of life experience. She lives like an exhausted adult when she should be enjoying her youth. But how could you blame her? Life has been cruel to her. From a very young age, she learned how to do everything alone: be the older sister, the maternal figure, the authority, the provider. Thinking more about whether she’ll have enough money to send her brother to college than about herself sounds sad and painfully lonely.
Everything begins to change when she returns to Harmony Hills to officially become her brother’s guardian. And with that return comes her new neighbor, Ford. An elegant, sensual, exquisite, older, very handsome firefighter.
Ford is my knight in shining armor, the kind that truly only exists in books, and one I wish every woman could experience at least once in her life. He is grumpy and always looks like he’s frowning, but that’s just his exterior. Deep down, he’s just a ridiculously attractive firefighter who totally enjoys posing naked for the town calendars (sarcasm) (don’t hate me for this, Ford). He is 36 years old, divorced, and fully devoted to his job and planning for retirement. After being betrayed by his ex-wife, he lost all hope of finding love again, as disappointment is all he knows. He is the middle brother of three. Rhys, the oldest, is the town sheriff and has a five-year-old daughter. Nash, the youngest, owns the family lodge. They are a close-knit, loving family with present parents. Each brother has a distinct personality, but Ford stands out the most for his constant grumpy demeanor, which slowly starts to change as he gets to know Ivy.
Now that I’ve talked about them individually, let’s talk about their relationship. Ivy and Ford are absolutely IDIOTS (affectionately), because it’s painfully obvious how much they like each other. Joe, Ivy’s brother, is their number one fan. If it were up to him, they would’ve been married a week after meeting, and it’s one of the funniest parts of the book.
This book is a full-on slow burn. The kind where you don’t even realize how slow it is until you’re past 60 percent and nothing more has happened than accidental touches or them being extremely kind to one another. And somehow, it works perfectly. I honestly love stories that focus on finding yourself again, healing, and growing, especially when you’re surrounded by people who support you, push you forward, and believe in you.
Ivy, Joe, and Ford are characters I will never forget.
OH, and yes, I already know who’s next. That upcoming trope is one of my absolute FAVORITES, so I’m very ready for it.
Want to read
September 23, 2025update now i am scared,
Wary and closed off after a messy divorce, Ford has no interest in giving love a second chance… until Ivy’s quick wit, quiet strength, and unwavering optimism begin to chip away at his walls.
A spicy firefighter romance perfect for readers who love cozy small towns, age gaps, and slow-burning tension!
MEE I DOO I LOVE AGE GAPS AND SLOW BURN!!!! PLEASE DON'T LET ME DOWN!!! AND BE SAFE!!
Wary and closed off after a messy divorce, Ford has no interest in giving love a second chance… until Ivy’s quick wit, quiet strength, and unwavering optimism begin to chip away at his walls.
A spicy firefighter romance perfect for readers who love cozy small towns, age gaps, and slow-burning tension!
MEE I DOO I LOVE AGE GAPS AND SLOW BURN!!!! PLEASE DON'T LET ME DOWN!!! AND BE SAFE!!
February 7, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+❤️
Wow think book was something else i was not ready for! I don’t think i have words for it, this book felt like a warm hug that i didn’t know i needed and it became one of my favorite romance books of all time🥺
What a beautiful story with an even more beautiful brother and sister relationship! I don’t think i’ve ever read anything similar to this and i never related to characters so much. There were a lot of moments where i saw myself in Ivy, in the way she thought, felt, acted and just was, and also in the relationship she had with her brother.
Joe was such a sweet and caring character and i loved him dearly, i hope i can see more of him in the books to come because i already miss him🥹
As for Ford, well, he’s perfect, let’s be real! I never read a book with firefighters but it just became one of my favorite tropes! His relationship with Ivy and with Joe was so amazing to see.
Ivy was such an inspiration and i loved everything about her, especially her humor and determination!
The book was written perfectly and it grabbed me from the start, i couldn’t for the life of me put it down, it was that good😭 I hope i have the chance to read the second book asap because i need more of these characters!!
Thank you so much NetGalley and Lisina Coney for the beautiful e-arc, i can’t wait for the book to come out so i can have a physical copy❤️
Wow think book was something else i was not ready for! I don’t think i have words for it, this book felt like a warm hug that i didn’t know i needed and it became one of my favorite romance books of all time🥺
What a beautiful story with an even more beautiful brother and sister relationship! I don’t think i’ve ever read anything similar to this and i never related to characters so much. There were a lot of moments where i saw myself in Ivy, in the way she thought, felt, acted and just was, and also in the relationship she had with her brother.
Joe was such a sweet and caring character and i loved him dearly, i hope i can see more of him in the books to come because i already miss him🥹
As for Ford, well, he’s perfect, let’s be real! I never read a book with firefighters but it just became one of my favorite tropes! His relationship with Ivy and with Joe was so amazing to see.
Ivy was such an inspiration and i loved everything about her, especially her humor and determination!
The book was written perfectly and it grabbed me from the start, i couldn’t for the life of me put it down, it was that good😭 I hope i have the chance to read the second book asap because i need more of these characters!!
Thank you so much NetGalley and Lisina Coney for the beautiful e-arc, i can’t wait for the book to come out so i can have a physical copy❤️
February 3, 2026
I genuinely cannot wait for everyone to officially meet Ivy, Ford, and Joe. I won’t say I fully went in planning to give this five stars, but who am I kidding, I very much did. I knew about this book for months and had been waiting, hoping, praying I would receive an early copy. Once I did, you best believe I finished it in less than 24 hours and in a single sitting.
Fragile Hope delivered the perfect balance of banter, tension, and emotional depth, and that made it so easy to fall headfirst into Ivy and Ford’s story.
Ivy and Joe haven’t exactly been dealt the easiest childhood, and Ivy has spent most of her teen and early adult years stepping into a role she never should have had to fill, trying to be everything Joe needed when no one else was there. But life, as it loves to do, gets messy. With everything crashing in at once, Ivy cannot help but feel she is falling short. My favorite part was witnessing Ivy accept support from Ford (sue me). Fragile Hope was sooo swoon-worthy to me, and now I have new favorite characters!
Tropes
🌟 Age gap (26 & 35)
❤️ Firefighter x eldest daughter
🌟 Cozy small town
❤️ Slow burn with spice
🌟 She’s her teen brother’s guardian
Thank you Netgalley and Lisina Coney for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Fragile Hope delivered the perfect balance of banter, tension, and emotional depth, and that made it so easy to fall headfirst into Ivy and Ford’s story.
Ivy and Joe haven’t exactly been dealt the easiest childhood, and Ivy has spent most of her teen and early adult years stepping into a role she never should have had to fill, trying to be everything Joe needed when no one else was there. But life, as it loves to do, gets messy. With everything crashing in at once, Ivy cannot help but feel she is falling short. My favorite part was witnessing Ivy accept support from Ford (sue me). Fragile Hope was sooo swoon-worthy to me, and now I have new favorite characters!
Tropes
🌟 Age gap (26 & 35)
❤️ Firefighter x eldest daughter
🌟 Cozy small town
❤️ Slow burn with spice
🌟 She’s her teen brother’s guardian
Thank you Netgalley and Lisina Coney for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 5, 2026
☆ 4 stars
Fragile Hopes by author Lisina Coney is the ultimate small town romance that you’re not going to want miss out on throughout any season of the year with its blend of heartfelt interactions filled with emotional depth alongside effortless banter that will leave you smiling from ear-to-ear. This is one of those compelling stories that you may find yourself delving into with ease and being faced with the sudden realisation that you have an unwillingness to put it down until you have consumed its contents in its entirety. I have devoured this book within one sitting and I already find myself feeling excited and desperate in my anticipation for news on the rest of the Harmony Hills series. Fragile Hopes is the perfect feel-good, low stakes romance that beautifully highlights the importance of family, whether that be by blood or bond, and the supportive community that can be forged should you find the courage to reach for it.
Ivy Farnsworth is a love letter to all of the eldest daughters who have had no choice but to shoulder the weight of the world without complaint. Despite not being the eldest daughter in reality I still found myself connecting with and understanding Ivy’s character with ease. She is selfless to the point of self-neglect and it truly broke my heart to recognise that Ivy just simply did not know that prioritising her own needs is something that she is allowed to make room for. Ivy will always be the first person to offer everything that she has without asking for anything in return and I truly believe that her journey of growth was rooted in the acknowledgment that it’s okay to sometimes feel selfish and self-serving to her own benefit. Her kindness, compassion and determination are indisputable and it’s understandable how everybody within her orbit couldn’t resist being drawn into her light. Her struggles as the legal guardian of her teenage brother will be relatable to many as Ivy battles with discerning the boundaries in being an older sister whom acts as a material figure and authoritative voice all in-one. Ivy is a sunshine-personified character who is nothing but deserving of the life and future that she yearns for, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of her story as I found myself battling my own emotions during the emotional epilogue.
Ford Hayes is a man who has given up on the concept of love after the events of a doomed marriage have left the shadows of a scar upon his heart. Upon introduction Ford comes across as very guarded and detached which leads to misunderstandings that later communication swiftly resolves. It quickly becomes clear that this is an act of self-preservation and is not a true reflection of his personality. Ford is a man who feels deeply for the people that he loves and holds himself to a very high standard when it comes to their well-being and safety. He is a caretaker to his core and never hesitates to make himself available to those in need no matter the cost. I have a lot of respect for Ford’s level of self-awareness, maturity and the openness he has in discussing his beneficial experience with therapy. He refuses to feel shame in his experiences and is shown to be a wonderful advocate in the importance of looking after your own wellbeing. Ford is a self-aware ‘white knight’ and it was wonderful to see this in action and his recognition of any boundaries that Ivy decided to put in place. I adored his growth throughout the story as he slowly comes to the realisation that being doomed in love in the past doesn’t mean he has to withhold himself from hoping for something more in the future. Ford’s communicative and emotionally-expressive relationship with his brothers was beautiful to witness, but even more so was his relationship with Ivy’s younger brother Joe. Ford is a kind and gentle man who has a lot of love to give to the right kind of people, and I loved getting to follow him on his path towards love and I look forward to seeing his brothers on their own respective journeys throughout the series.
Joe Farnsworth deserves a mention as this sweet baby was the ultimate supporting character whose strong presence read as if he was a main character in his own right. At the very young age of sixteen-years-old his only worries in life should be achieving good grades in school and getting to have fun with his friends. However no matter how desperately his older sister Ivy desperately tries to make this a reality… this proves to be unsuccessful as Joe finds himself trying to shoulder part of the burden that he knows is weighing on his older sister. Joe is such a sweetheart and it broke my heart to see how deeply affected he was from the traumatic circumstances of his life. I was torn between feelings of pride at his determination to step up in support of their financial situation whilst simultaneously feeling bereft at his need to do so. His ambition to be a pilot and the deep passion he holds for planes was such a wonderful feature that helped to highlight his youth and potential. I adored his relationship with both Ivy and Ford as both bonds offered Joe something a little different which matched his varying needs in what he needed from them. I do wish we had gotten to see a little more of Joe’s healing journey to combat his PTSD surrounding cars and the traumatic experience that led him there as I feel this could’ve better rounded off his character in the end. I was a little confused in the way that Joe seemed to leave in a car with his aunt without any negative impact to his progression, but ultimately it’s a small detail that’s more of a nitpick. Fragile Hopes was just as much Joe’s story as it was Ford and Ivy’s, and I couldn’t be happier in knowing that he reached his dreams in the end during that emotional epilogue.
I fell in-love with Coney’s writing with the release of The Brightest Light of Sunshine and this latest instalment has further solidified that sentiment. Fragile Hopes was exactly that… a compelling and vulnerable story showcasing the fragility of hope and the importance in reaching for it regardless of the outcome. There cannot be love without the prospect of loss, but this should not mean that you hold yourself back in fear of the inevitable end. Life is full of wonderful moments that are worth fighting for and I couldn’t be happier with the exploration of Ivy, Ford and Joe’s story. I’m very excited to learn more about the other two Hayes brothers and to see which story we will be receiving next in the Harmony Hills series. Do I suspect a potential love interest that our retired resident heartbreaker will find himself faced with? I’ll have to showcase some patience in my wait to see if that hunch is right.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞.
Fragile Hopes by author Lisina Coney is the ultimate small town romance that you’re not going to want miss out on throughout any season of the year with its blend of heartfelt interactions filled with emotional depth alongside effortless banter that will leave you smiling from ear-to-ear. This is one of those compelling stories that you may find yourself delving into with ease and being faced with the sudden realisation that you have an unwillingness to put it down until you have consumed its contents in its entirety. I have devoured this book within one sitting and I already find myself feeling excited and desperate in my anticipation for news on the rest of the Harmony Hills series. Fragile Hopes is the perfect feel-good, low stakes romance that beautifully highlights the importance of family, whether that be by blood or bond, and the supportive community that can be forged should you find the courage to reach for it.
Ivy Farnsworth is a love letter to all of the eldest daughters who have had no choice but to shoulder the weight of the world without complaint. Despite not being the eldest daughter in reality I still found myself connecting with and understanding Ivy’s character with ease. She is selfless to the point of self-neglect and it truly broke my heart to recognise that Ivy just simply did not know that prioritising her own needs is something that she is allowed to make room for. Ivy will always be the first person to offer everything that she has without asking for anything in return and I truly believe that her journey of growth was rooted in the acknowledgment that it’s okay to sometimes feel selfish and self-serving to her own benefit. Her kindness, compassion and determination are indisputable and it’s understandable how everybody within her orbit couldn’t resist being drawn into her light. Her struggles as the legal guardian of her teenage brother will be relatable to many as Ivy battles with discerning the boundaries in being an older sister whom acts as a material figure and authoritative voice all in-one. Ivy is a sunshine-personified character who is nothing but deserving of the life and future that she yearns for, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of her story as I found myself battling my own emotions during the emotional epilogue.
Ford Hayes is a man who has given up on the concept of love after the events of a doomed marriage have left the shadows of a scar upon his heart. Upon introduction Ford comes across as very guarded and detached which leads to misunderstandings that later communication swiftly resolves. It quickly becomes clear that this is an act of self-preservation and is not a true reflection of his personality. Ford is a man who feels deeply for the people that he loves and holds himself to a very high standard when it comes to their well-being and safety. He is a caretaker to his core and never hesitates to make himself available to those in need no matter the cost. I have a lot of respect for Ford’s level of self-awareness, maturity and the openness he has in discussing his beneficial experience with therapy. He refuses to feel shame in his experiences and is shown to be a wonderful advocate in the importance of looking after your own wellbeing. Ford is a self-aware ‘white knight’ and it was wonderful to see this in action and his recognition of any boundaries that Ivy decided to put in place. I adored his growth throughout the story as he slowly comes to the realisation that being doomed in love in the past doesn’t mean he has to withhold himself from hoping for something more in the future. Ford’s communicative and emotionally-expressive relationship with his brothers was beautiful to witness, but even more so was his relationship with Ivy’s younger brother Joe. Ford is a kind and gentle man who has a lot of love to give to the right kind of people, and I loved getting to follow him on his path towards love and I look forward to seeing his brothers on their own respective journeys throughout the series.
Joe Farnsworth deserves a mention as this sweet baby was the ultimate supporting character whose strong presence read as if he was a main character in his own right. At the very young age of sixteen-years-old his only worries in life should be achieving good grades in school and getting to have fun with his friends. However no matter how desperately his older sister Ivy desperately tries to make this a reality… this proves to be unsuccessful as Joe finds himself trying to shoulder part of the burden that he knows is weighing on his older sister. Joe is such a sweetheart and it broke my heart to see how deeply affected he was from the traumatic circumstances of his life. I was torn between feelings of pride at his determination to step up in support of their financial situation whilst simultaneously feeling bereft at his need to do so. His ambition to be a pilot and the deep passion he holds for planes was such a wonderful feature that helped to highlight his youth and potential. I adored his relationship with both Ivy and Ford as both bonds offered Joe something a little different which matched his varying needs in what he needed from them. I do wish we had gotten to see a little more of Joe’s healing journey to combat his PTSD surrounding cars and the traumatic experience that led him there as I feel this could’ve better rounded off his character in the end. I was a little confused in the way that Joe seemed to leave in a car with his aunt without any negative impact to his progression, but ultimately it’s a small detail that’s more of a nitpick. Fragile Hopes was just as much Joe’s story as it was Ford and Ivy’s, and I couldn’t be happier in knowing that he reached his dreams in the end during that emotional epilogue.
I fell in-love with Coney’s writing with the release of The Brightest Light of Sunshine and this latest instalment has further solidified that sentiment. Fragile Hopes was exactly that… a compelling and vulnerable story showcasing the fragility of hope and the importance in reaching for it regardless of the outcome. There cannot be love without the prospect of loss, but this should not mean that you hold yourself back in fear of the inevitable end. Life is full of wonderful moments that are worth fighting for and I couldn’t be happier with the exploration of Ivy, Ford and Joe’s story. I’m very excited to learn more about the other two Hayes brothers and to see which story we will be receiving next in the Harmony Hills series. Do I suspect a potential love interest that our retired resident heartbreaker will find himself faced with? I’ll have to showcase some patience in my wait to see if that hunch is right.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞.
February 6, 2026
This was absolutely stunning start to a brand new series by Lisina Coney. An eldest daughter and recently divorced neighbor embarked on a on a journey together of finding love in the most unlikely places. These friends to lovers who try to fight their connection until the end, too scared of what love has cost them before.
The book was everything I could have wanted. This slow burn was so filled with the little moments you beg for in a really well written romance. The small moments between these two have you wanting to throw your book and beg them to just love each other but knowing it was written in such perfection, staying true to who the characters are.
The shining moment in this story was the brother and sister relationship between Joe and Ivy, they had me laughing, crying and wishing for a type of relationship they seem to have so seamlessly.
I adored every moment of this book. It was perfect balance of romance, real and raw characters, honest relationships and the character driven plot was everything.
The book was everything I could have wanted. This slow burn was so filled with the little moments you beg for in a really well written romance. The small moments between these two have you wanting to throw your book and beg them to just love each other but knowing it was written in such perfection, staying true to who the characters are.
The shining moment in this story was the brother and sister relationship between Joe and Ivy, they had me laughing, crying and wishing for a type of relationship they seem to have so seamlessly.
I adored every moment of this book. It was perfect balance of romance, real and raw characters, honest relationships and the character driven plot was everything.
February 6, 2026
I can’t even explain how much love I have for this book and these characters. I related so much to Ivy so deep into my soul. Her being the eldest daughter really made my connection with her so special while reading. Ford is an absolute sweetheart and caring for both Ivy and Joe was so cute to read about. Fords storyline with his recent divorce and him being a grumpy but loving person was *chefs kiss*! Lisina always writes such heartfelt books that get you in your feels by feeling such a connection to the characters and what is happening to them. Ford and Ivy are perfect together even though they really tried ignoring their feelings for each other at first but I feel like that is what built their relationship to be so good and not rushed. Also sidenote I really want the firefighter calendar that Ivy illustrated because I need it. Their little family is going to make me cry everytime I think about them which is going to be a lot. that epilogue made me sob because omg they all deserve this happiness🥹 I already miss them so much.
Thank you so much NetGalley and Lisina Coney for allowing me to read this e-arc.
Thank you so much NetGalley and Lisina Coney for allowing me to read this e-arc.
February 5, 2026
f you (in a loving way), Lisina. WHY DO YOU MAKE ME LOVE IDIOTS. THEY ARE LITERALLY IDIOTS BUT I LOVE THEM SO MUCH. THANK YOU FOR THE ARC 🫶🏼
In all seriousness, Ivy was the sweetest and painfully reminded me of myself at times but I love love lovedddd seeing her growth. Joe, Ivy’s brother, was the sweetest angel baby and he deserves the best life. LET ME AT YOUR DAD, I WILL FIGHT HIM 🥊
Then we have Ford. Ford, Ford, Ford. Can I call you Ford? You’re so grumpy and perfect and yet caring and loving and the best friend anyone can ask for. So easily accepting of Joe and will always be there for him and Ivy, no matter what. I am obsessed with this man. (Also, he is a firefighter) (Also, biceps).
Anyway, I am requesting a copy of the firefighter calendar that Ivy illustrated, please and thanks!
In all seriousness, Ivy was the sweetest and painfully reminded me of myself at times but I love love lovedddd seeing her growth. Joe, Ivy’s brother, was the sweetest angel baby and he deserves the best life. LET ME AT YOUR DAD, I WILL FIGHT HIM 🥊
Then we have Ford. Ford, Ford, Ford. Can I call you Ford? You’re so grumpy and perfect and yet caring and loving and the best friend anyone can ask for. So easily accepting of Joe and will always be there for him and Ivy, no matter what. I am obsessed with this man. (Also, he is a firefighter) (Also, biceps).
Anyway, I am requesting a copy of the firefighter calendar that Ivy illustrated, please and thanks!
February 1, 2026
This was amazing. I mean, going in I knew that these tropes are exactly what I love and the book absolutely did not disappoint. The writing was amazing and the characters are so well written with so many layers. They are flawed, but they learn from their mistakes and grow from them. It was definitely a multifaceted read. Obviously I loved the tension between Ford and Ivy, they are the epitomy of idiots-in-love and I am here for it. But it was also an emotional read at times. Ivy and Joe have not had it easy and that was written really delicately but also heartbreakingly raw. Ivy felt like she had the weight of the world on her shoulders and Joe wanted to relieve some of that weight but had such a heavy load already, and I just wanted to hug them both. They deserved so much more than the cards they had been dealt with. Ford, grumpy and closed off, also had some baggage that made it difficult to open up to love again. Throughout the story, though, they slowly found a way to process all their baggage and to accept that they deserved so much more than what they were allowing themselves to have.
I cannot wait to see what book 2 has in store for us :)
Thank you Lisina Coney for the ARC!
I cannot wait to see what book 2 has in store for us :)
Thank you Lisina Coney for the ARC!
February 5, 2026
I read this story in one sitting because I could not put it down. As the eldest daughter, I felt a deep kinship with Ivy. She was so sweet and trying so so hard to give her brother the life they BOTH deserved. I love the progression of Ford and Ivy’s relationship and it felt very natural for them to fall in love. It would be criminal to talk about this story and not mention how much I loved Ford and Joe’s relationship as well. The way they cared about each other was one of my favorite things about this story. I loved the pacing and the epilogue got quite a few tears out of me. This was a perfect landing. I’m really looking forward to more books in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley for an arc of this story in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for an arc of this story in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2026
As a huge Lisina Coney fan I ran as soon as I saw that Fragile Hopes was up on NetGalley. How I fell in love with Ivy & Ford, but more importantly with Joe. As someone who’s also not planning on having kids I was so happy to see this represented in a romance book for once!! (it was done so well too). Also, who doesn’t love themselves a firefighter romance? I honestly enjoyed this one so much, I cannot wait for more books in this series (and anything else that Lisina has in store for us, grocery lists not excluded).
the vibes ™:
- firefighter x illustrator
- mental health rep
- age gap
- small town
- fmc is her younger brother’s guardian
the vibes ™:
- firefighter x illustrator
- mental health rep
- age gap
- small town
- fmc is her younger brother’s guardian
February 6, 2026
Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for this ARC!
Fragile Hopes is a great story about the eldest daughter and her quest to do good by her younger brother. The hot neighbor that also takes her brother under his wing is just a bonus! This book had all the feel good moments with just the right amount of conflict, I truly enjoyed reading it! I’m excited to see how this series progresses!
Fragile Hopes is a great story about the eldest daughter and her quest to do good by her younger brother. The hot neighbor that also takes her brother under his wing is just a bonus! This book had all the feel good moments with just the right amount of conflict, I truly enjoyed reading it! I’m excited to see how this series progresses!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Grump x sunshine but wait- make them both emotionally unavailable but so stupid in love. Yep. That's Ford and Ivy. Two idiots in love, too oblivious to realise and admit what they truly want.
Ivy, a young, strong and independent woman trying her best to provide for her brother and give him the best life he could get. She's such a sweetheart for real and all the pain she'd been tolerating makes her such a strong and admiring character. However, I especially loved when old grump Ford finally put some sense into her mind and made her realise that she needed to be prioritising herself too. Said man, Ford, our fav grump. Slightly complicated but truly such a softie and caring soul. Despite all his inhibitions he never failed to show how kind and sweet of a soul he was. What I love about all Lisina's characters is that they're all so tender and literal angels at heart despite whatever trauma they've been through. And whatever initially keeps them back, eventually gives way to the soft side of theirs that simply craves for love.
I can't talk enough about Joe. That cutie boy. I completely forgot he had been just 16 because really, it felt as if he was older, sadly. I loved his relationship with Ivy, such an adorable sibling pair and my heart would melt for them and just how much they love each other. But Ford and Joe? Oh that's even more adorable bc wdym Joe got mad his sister was out on a date with another man instead of Ford ?? There goes my heart, he's a literal cutie. But yeah, the familial bond between him, Ford and the rest of the brothers was such an adorable addition and probably my most fav part of the book (and also the part that made me cry the most)
All in all, adorable book (not surprising at all), gets to you and makes you cry for real. Shows you that life is hard and will always bring about obstacles. But with a sweet heart and a smile -and maybe a hot grumpy firefighter neighbour- everything will be fine. Ivy's struggles are so realistic and make you feel for her bc she's got such a caring heart and is also so hard on herself bc of her love for her brother. And that's exactly what tears your heart in two, to see her struggle happily if that's what makes her brother's dreams come true.
The only reason why I gave this book 4 and not 5 full stars is because while the slow burn was burning, I had hoped for a little more of it. I loved the yearning and all but because as I felt the book leaning a bit more towards the traumas and issues of the characters, I felt like the whole falling in love process was a bit hurried and not shown too thoroughly. But that's only a small, tiny complaint compared to the whole and definitely not to the point where it felt insta love or ruined the burn.
Thanks sincerely to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity once more to read in advance this book!!
Ivy, a young, strong and independent woman trying her best to provide for her brother and give him the best life he could get. She's such a sweetheart for real and all the pain she'd been tolerating makes her such a strong and admiring character. However, I especially loved when old grump Ford finally put some sense into her mind and made her realise that she needed to be prioritising herself too. Said man, Ford, our fav grump. Slightly complicated but truly such a softie and caring soul. Despite all his inhibitions he never failed to show how kind and sweet of a soul he was. What I love about all Lisina's characters is that they're all so tender and literal angels at heart despite whatever trauma they've been through. And whatever initially keeps them back, eventually gives way to the soft side of theirs that simply craves for love.
I can't talk enough about Joe. That cutie boy. I completely forgot he had been just 16 because really, it felt as if he was older, sadly. I loved his relationship with Ivy, such an adorable sibling pair and my heart would melt for them and just how much they love each other. But Ford and Joe? Oh that's even more adorable bc wdym Joe got mad his sister was out on a date with another man instead of Ford ?? There goes my heart, he's a literal cutie. But yeah, the familial bond between him, Ford and the rest of the brothers was such an adorable addition and probably my most fav part of the book (and also the part that made me cry the most)
All in all, adorable book (not surprising at all), gets to you and makes you cry for real. Shows you that life is hard and will always bring about obstacles. But with a sweet heart and a smile -and maybe a hot grumpy firefighter neighbour- everything will be fine. Ivy's struggles are so realistic and make you feel for her bc she's got such a caring heart and is also so hard on herself bc of her love for her brother. And that's exactly what tears your heart in two, to see her struggle happily if that's what makes her brother's dreams come true.
The only reason why I gave this book 4 and not 5 full stars is because while the slow burn was burning, I had hoped for a little more of it. I loved the yearning and all but because as I felt the book leaning a bit more towards the traumas and issues of the characters, I felt like the whole falling in love process was a bit hurried and not shown too thoroughly. But that's only a small, tiny complaint compared to the whole and definitely not to the point where it felt insta love or ruined the burn.
Thanks sincerely to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity once more to read in advance this book!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It’s no secret to anyone that I love Lisina Coney and her books with everything I have. I’ve reread her books countless times, even got a quote from the first one tattooed back in 2023, and own all of her books in several editions and languages. Yes, I’m that obsessed. At this point, I even became one of her biggest cheerleaders, always liking and commenting on every post. I just appreciate her so much. So when she started teasing about a new book last year, I literally went crazy. But when she announced the book was available for requests on NetGalley, I RAN. And then, I got that email telling me my request had been accepted and just started screaming. Once the screaming stopped, the tears began, and let me tell you it took a LONG time for them to stop.
Now I’ve just finished reading Fragile Hopes, and the tears are back for different reasons. I’ve finally read it. It’s over. It was so good. I love the characters so much. I miss them already.
Ivy and Ford’s relationship is the exact definition of an idiots-to-lovers. Everyone around them can see how much they mean to each other, except them. I was so excited for this new male love interest. I knew I was going to love him because, well, he was written by Lisina Coney, and she did write Cal, so obviously... But the sexy firefighter from next door, who opens his heart to this little family, has just taken his place in my all-time favourite male characters list. But one other thing I just really loved about this book is Joe and Ivy’s bond. Their relationship is so sweet. They love eachother so much and would do anything for the other. But the little banter between them was also so funny and well-written! But what I somehow wasnt expecting was how I’d absolutely fall in love with how Ford found his place in their family dynamic. His relationship with Joe had me literally crying! I have so many quotes highlighted just about them.
I knew I was going to love this book; it literally has some of my favourite tropes. I mean, at this point, the world knows how I love age gap romances, but that mixed with some slow burn, small town, and single guardian? Yeah, you’ve got me hooked!
Fragile Hopes had everything I wanted and way more. I smiled, giggled, kicked my feet, cried (like literally from the dedication!) I did it all. My thoughts during the whole book? “I can’t believe I’m reading it!!!”
So I’d like to thank NetGalley for providing me with an advance reader copy.
I cannot wait to get to Nash’s and Rhys’ books next. But whatever Lisina has planned for us, I already know I’m going to love it so much!
Now I’ve just finished reading Fragile Hopes, and the tears are back for different reasons. I’ve finally read it. It’s over. It was so good. I love the characters so much. I miss them already.
Ivy and Ford’s relationship is the exact definition of an idiots-to-lovers. Everyone around them can see how much they mean to each other, except them. I was so excited for this new male love interest. I knew I was going to love him because, well, he was written by Lisina Coney, and she did write Cal, so obviously... But the sexy firefighter from next door, who opens his heart to this little family, has just taken his place in my all-time favourite male characters list. But one other thing I just really loved about this book is Joe and Ivy’s bond. Their relationship is so sweet. They love eachother so much and would do anything for the other. But the little banter between them was also so funny and well-written! But what I somehow wasnt expecting was how I’d absolutely fall in love with how Ford found his place in their family dynamic. His relationship with Joe had me literally crying! I have so many quotes highlighted just about them.
I knew I was going to love this book; it literally has some of my favourite tropes. I mean, at this point, the world knows how I love age gap romances, but that mixed with some slow burn, small town, and single guardian? Yeah, you’ve got me hooked!
Fragile Hopes had everything I wanted and way more. I smiled, giggled, kicked my feet, cried (like literally from the dedication!) I did it all. My thoughts during the whole book? “I can’t believe I’m reading it!!!”
So I’d like to thank NetGalley for providing me with an advance reader copy.
I cannot wait to get to Nash’s and Rhys’ books next. But whatever Lisina has planned for us, I already know I’m going to love it so much!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another absolutely AMAZING release from the Queen of age gap romance!
Fragile Hopes has been my most anticipated read of 2026 from the moment it was announced. In my eyes, nobody does contemporary romances with ALL the feels like Lisina Coney does.
Ivy and Ford did not disappoint. (I knew they wouldn't!)
Returning to Harmony Hills to become Guardian of her 16 year old brother Joe was certainly not on Ivy's bingo card.
Keeping an eye on his 26 year old neighbor and her younger brother was not on Ford's list of to-do's either.
They both have more than enough baggage to last a life time.
But Ford and his white-knight complex has a hard time watching his pretty neighbor and her sweet, quiet younger brother struggle. And Ivy struggles to turn down help from a new friend when she has spent her entire life caring for others. Is it so bad to have someone looking out for her as well, for what feels like the first time ever?
Every moment of Fragile Hopes was packed full of emotions, character growth, and the most fantastic sided characters.
Something I have always loved about Coney's writing is that everything feels so real and relatable. There isn't drama for the sake of drama. These characters feel like real people, with real struggles just trying to make their ways through life as best they can.
Where lasting love is built on friendship, and support.
That was Ivy and Ford's (and sweet Joe's!) story to a T.
Two people who have been handed their own, not always so great hands at life. And finding friendship, love and support in the place neither of them expected it.
Honorable mention for Joe, who was hands-down one of the best side characters I've read. I definitely hope we get his story one day!
As always, and not at all unexpectedly- another 5 star read from Lisina Coney to go in my re-read at least once a year pile!
**Huge THANK YOU to the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to ARC read Fragile Hopes!**
Fragile Hopes has been my most anticipated read of 2026 from the moment it was announced. In my eyes, nobody does contemporary romances with ALL the feels like Lisina Coney does.
Ivy and Ford did not disappoint. (I knew they wouldn't!)
Returning to Harmony Hills to become Guardian of her 16 year old brother Joe was certainly not on Ivy's bingo card.
Keeping an eye on his 26 year old neighbor and her younger brother was not on Ford's list of to-do's either.
They both have more than enough baggage to last a life time.
But Ford and his white-knight complex has a hard time watching his pretty neighbor and her sweet, quiet younger brother struggle. And Ivy struggles to turn down help from a new friend when she has spent her entire life caring for others. Is it so bad to have someone looking out for her as well, for what feels like the first time ever?
Every moment of Fragile Hopes was packed full of emotions, character growth, and the most fantastic sided characters.
Something I have always loved about Coney's writing is that everything feels so real and relatable. There isn't drama for the sake of drama. These characters feel like real people, with real struggles just trying to make their ways through life as best they can.
Where lasting love is built on friendship, and support.
That was Ivy and Ford's (and sweet Joe's!) story to a T.
Two people who have been handed their own, not always so great hands at life. And finding friendship, love and support in the place neither of them expected it.
Honorable mention for Joe, who was hands-down one of the best side characters I've read. I definitely hope we get his story one day!
As always, and not at all unexpectedly- another 5 star read from Lisina Coney to go in my re-read at least once a year pile!
**Huge THANK YOU to the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to ARC read Fragile Hopes!**
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4☆
thank you so much to lisina coney and netgalley for this arc. forever grateful to have had the opportunity to read this early on.
——— ⋆. 𐙚 ˚ ———
first thing's first... lisina coney, you are a genius.
ford hayes is a man of many talents, but being a firefighter is his greatest (and sexiest) one. sorry, not sorry. he's guarded and keeps to himself, but he's really got a heart of gold. the relationships that he has with his family and the relationship he's built with joe, are some of the most precious parts of this story. he's someone that others can look up to and lean on because he won't ever let you down. he's as loyal as they come.
and the same can be said for ivy farnsworth. someone who had to grow up way too young and always thought about her brother before she thought about herself, and never once complained or asked for anything in return. she's the definition of selfless and she continues to be just that, even when she's working herself into the ground. she's a ray of sunshine even when the world is crumbling beneath her, but she won't let anything get in her way. she's always going to persevere.
ivy and ford's story was so precious. lisina has a talent of writing love stories that just feel real and that just unfold in front of you in a way that feels so natural, and never feels rushed. the same can be said for ivy and ford's story.
nothing felt rushed and nothing felt like it was missing. their story was so precious and so beautiful. they built a friendship first and built a foundation that will never crumble.
i am so grateful to have had the chance to read this arc. once again, thank you so much to lisina and netgalley for this opportunity. i can't wait for book two of harmony hills. parts of me thinks that i know whose story it may be, and fingers crossed that i'm right!
thank you so much to lisina coney and netgalley for this arc. forever grateful to have had the opportunity to read this early on.
——— ⋆. 𐙚 ˚ ———
first thing's first... lisina coney, you are a genius.
ford hayes is a man of many talents, but being a firefighter is his greatest (and sexiest) one. sorry, not sorry. he's guarded and keeps to himself, but he's really got a heart of gold. the relationships that he has with his family and the relationship he's built with joe, are some of the most precious parts of this story. he's someone that others can look up to and lean on because he won't ever let you down. he's as loyal as they come.
and the same can be said for ivy farnsworth. someone who had to grow up way too young and always thought about her brother before she thought about herself, and never once complained or asked for anything in return. she's the definition of selfless and she continues to be just that, even when she's working herself into the ground. she's a ray of sunshine even when the world is crumbling beneath her, but she won't let anything get in her way. she's always going to persevere.
ivy and ford's story was so precious. lisina has a talent of writing love stories that just feel real and that just unfold in front of you in a way that feels so natural, and never feels rushed. the same can be said for ivy and ford's story.
nothing felt rushed and nothing felt like it was missing. their story was so precious and so beautiful. they built a friendship first and built a foundation that will never crumble.
i am so grateful to have had the chance to read this arc. once again, thank you so much to lisina and netgalley for this opportunity. i can't wait for book two of harmony hills. parts of me thinks that i know whose story it may be, and fingers crossed that i'm right!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Lisina Coney for this e-ARC of Fragile Hopes!
I loved this book so much. This story was so wholesome, full of yearning and tension.
Ivy is a young woman who had to return home to be her brother Joe's caregiver after their father ends up in prison. She's working hard to support her and her brother, while also saving up for his hefty pilot school tuition. Ford is their very muscly firefighter next door neighbour. He comes off very grumpy at first, but sparks soon start to fly between him and Ivy.
I adored that Ford and Ivy were good friends before anything happened between them. I loveeee the friends to lovers pipeline. It makes me happy when characters really like each other and fall that way. They had such a strong foundation for a relationship by the time they found their way there.
One of my favourite parts was that both Ford and Ivy did not want to have children. It's so refreshing seeing a couple make that choice and it not be some agonising, painful thing to them. They were content with the people in their life, and Ivy had grown up raising her younger brother. She wanted her adulthood to be hers, to chase her own dreams and live for herself. I can relate very heavily to that and it was really great to see it woven into their story.
The family aspects of this story were such a rich element. Eldest daughter feelings, being a parentified young person (relatable for me), the connection between Joe and Ivy. Ford being there for Joe any time he needed someone. It was so good and heartwarming.
And in addition to that, the epilogue was everything. I cried, you probably cried too.
5 stars, I will definitely be buying a physical copy for my shelves when it comes out April 24th! Not only a great book, but the cover is GORGEOUS. This artist is so talented.
I loved this book so much. This story was so wholesome, full of yearning and tension.
Ivy is a young woman who had to return home to be her brother Joe's caregiver after their father ends up in prison. She's working hard to support her and her brother, while also saving up for his hefty pilot school tuition. Ford is their very muscly firefighter next door neighbour. He comes off very grumpy at first, but sparks soon start to fly between him and Ivy.
I adored that Ford and Ivy were good friends before anything happened between them. I loveeee the friends to lovers pipeline. It makes me happy when characters really like each other and fall that way. They had such a strong foundation for a relationship by the time they found their way there.
One of my favourite parts was that both Ford and Ivy did not want to have children. It's so refreshing seeing a couple make that choice and it not be some agonising, painful thing to them. They were content with the people in their life, and Ivy had grown up raising her younger brother. She wanted her adulthood to be hers, to chase her own dreams and live for herself. I can relate very heavily to that and it was really great to see it woven into their story.
The family aspects of this story were such a rich element. Eldest daughter feelings, being a parentified young person (relatable for me), the connection between Joe and Ivy. Ford being there for Joe any time he needed someone. It was so good and heartwarming.
And in addition to that, the epilogue was everything. I cried, you probably cried too.
5 stars, I will definitely be buying a physical copy for my shelves when it comes out April 24th! Not only a great book, but the cover is GORGEOUS. This artist is so talented.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Tropes: Firefighter, neighbors, small town, quasi-single mom (she’s the guardian to her teenage brother)
FMC: Ivy - creative, selfless, puts her brother before her in everything she does, loves deeply, doesn’t believe in her own importance or her talent, incredibly hardworking
MMC: Ford - strong, opposite of toxic masculinity, steady and dependable, hurt from his divorce, thinks love is off the table, needs someone to wake him up
Spice: low spice, open door with a little d!rty talk, but relatively short scenes (I think 3 in total)
Thoughts:
Lisina Coney does it again, folks. A gorgeous story full of heart, I’m honestly sad this book is over. Ivy and Ford are incredibly well-adjusted despite the traumas and misfortunes that life has thrown at them. Lisina does a great job of crafting realistic, healthy representations of relationships, between romantic partners and between family members. Even when life gets messy, these characters stay true to the heart of themselves. They prioritize communication and trust, and watching those important pillars bloom into a wonderful love was magical. I adore Ivy and Ford together and know they will make it for a lifetime. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Favorite Quotes:
He’s never looked at me like this before. Like I hold the answers to questions he hasn’t asked out loud.
“I like you,” she says, her voice quiet. “A lot.” Could my heart beat any fucking faster? “I like you a lot more than a lot,” I confess. “We sound like middle schoolers.”
“...I’ll always be Team Ivy, okay? I’m here, unconditionally.”
“Hey,” I interrupt her gently. “Nothing you ever ask of me is too much because you aren’t too much.”
I’d take down the entire fucking building with my bare hands to keep her safe.
FMC: Ivy - creative, selfless, puts her brother before her in everything she does, loves deeply, doesn’t believe in her own importance or her talent, incredibly hardworking
MMC: Ford - strong, opposite of toxic masculinity, steady and dependable, hurt from his divorce, thinks love is off the table, needs someone to wake him up
Spice: low spice, open door with a little d!rty talk, but relatively short scenes (I think 3 in total)
Thoughts:
Lisina Coney does it again, folks. A gorgeous story full of heart, I’m honestly sad this book is over. Ivy and Ford are incredibly well-adjusted despite the traumas and misfortunes that life has thrown at them. Lisina does a great job of crafting realistic, healthy representations of relationships, between romantic partners and between family members. Even when life gets messy, these characters stay true to the heart of themselves. They prioritize communication and trust, and watching those important pillars bloom into a wonderful love was magical. I adore Ivy and Ford together and know they will make it for a lifetime. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Favorite Quotes:
He’s never looked at me like this before. Like I hold the answers to questions he hasn’t asked out loud.
“I like you,” she says, her voice quiet. “A lot.” Could my heart beat any fucking faster? “I like you a lot more than a lot,” I confess. “We sound like middle schoolers.”
“...I’ll always be Team Ivy, okay? I’m here, unconditionally.”
“Hey,” I interrupt her gently. “Nothing you ever ask of me is too much because you aren’t too much.”
I’d take down the entire fucking building with my bare hands to keep her safe.
February 8, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I’ve loved Lisina Coney’s writing from the start, so when I was approved for this ARC, I ran. I read this book in less than 24 hours and couldn’t put it down.
Lisina writes characters that feel deeply real. They're vulnerable, flawed, and easy to love. Ivy (FMC) is only 26 but carries the weight of the world, especially when it comes to caring for her younger brother, Joe. She puts everyone before herself, and watching her journey of healing and growth was both heartbreaking and beautiful. The sibling connection between Ivy and Joe was one of my favorite parts of the book because it felt honest and emotional.
Then there’s Ford (MMC). Grumpy, older, and divorced firefighter. A classic Coney book boyfriend in the best of ways. Beneath his scowl is a deeply caring man who’s been burned before and is terrified of hoping again. Watching him slowly soften for Ivy had me internally screaming and kicking my feet.
Fragile Hopes is a classic Coney slow burn...where I mean it is SLOW and the burn is REAL. It's when small moments and accidental touches mean everything. Ivy and Ford are lovable idiots who are obviously meant for each other, and Joe, being their biggest supporter, was both hilarious and sweet. He's like their perfect wingman.
Lisina Coney has a way with words and storytelling, and this book is no different. It's emotional, and beautifully written and paced. Nothing felt rushed or unnecessary in the book. Literally no notes. I can’t wait for the next book in the series… and I definitely have a guess about who it’s about 🤭
Read if you like:
- Age gap
- Slow burn
- Small town
- Dual POV
- Gumpy x Sunshine
Lisina writes characters that feel deeply real. They're vulnerable, flawed, and easy to love. Ivy (FMC) is only 26 but carries the weight of the world, especially when it comes to caring for her younger brother, Joe. She puts everyone before herself, and watching her journey of healing and growth was both heartbreaking and beautiful. The sibling connection between Ivy and Joe was one of my favorite parts of the book because it felt honest and emotional.
Then there’s Ford (MMC). Grumpy, older, and divorced firefighter. A classic Coney book boyfriend in the best of ways. Beneath his scowl is a deeply caring man who’s been burned before and is terrified of hoping again. Watching him slowly soften for Ivy had me internally screaming and kicking my feet.
Fragile Hopes is a classic Coney slow burn...where I mean it is SLOW and the burn is REAL. It's when small moments and accidental touches mean everything. Ivy and Ford are lovable idiots who are obviously meant for each other, and Joe, being their biggest supporter, was both hilarious and sweet. He's like their perfect wingman.
Lisina Coney has a way with words and storytelling, and this book is no different. It's emotional, and beautifully written and paced. Nothing felt rushed or unnecessary in the book. Literally no notes. I can’t wait for the next book in the series… and I definitely have a guess about who it’s about 🤭
Read if you like:
- Age gap
- Slow burn
- Small town
- Dual POV
- Gumpy x Sunshine
February 2, 2026
Thank you to Lisina and NetGalley for the ARC 🥹🩷
Where do I even begin with this story? There’s a certain magic to the way Ms Coney writes and Ivy and Ford’s story, with the ever loving and always so determined Joe, is no exception to this rule.
Within this age gap, neighbours to lovers romance heart strings are tugged, misconceptions are challenged and we, the readers, are confronted with the question of how far would you go for the people you love?
For Ivy, the sister turned guardian of sixteen year old Joe, the answer is simple: there isn’t a distance you could name. She’s a character forged in sacrifice and dedication to those she loves, and the way she gives her all to her brother is inspiring.
Ford, our stoic and stable hero, didn’t know what he signed up for when he let his kid neighbour start mowing his lawn. Some not so subtle hints about his own feelings and a rude wake up call to everything he’s holding himself back from probably wasn’t on his bingo card. But he is written to be stubborn and a little lost until Joe and Ivy find him, and that dynamic that Coney crafts (full of mischief, teasing, trust and admiration) between Joe and Ford brought me so much joy.
This is a story to read if you’re feeling like all you do is give your all for others, and you need the reminder that you matter too, or if you have lost sight of how to lean on others and need to be told there is strength in seeking support. It is beautifully written and I am, once again, so in awe of the way Lisina Coney’s mind works.
How lucky am I to have had the honour of reading this early!?
Infinity stars wouldn’t be enough ✨🩷
Where do I even begin with this story? There’s a certain magic to the way Ms Coney writes and Ivy and Ford’s story, with the ever loving and always so determined Joe, is no exception to this rule.
Within this age gap, neighbours to lovers romance heart strings are tugged, misconceptions are challenged and we, the readers, are confronted with the question of how far would you go for the people you love?
For Ivy, the sister turned guardian of sixteen year old Joe, the answer is simple: there isn’t a distance you could name. She’s a character forged in sacrifice and dedication to those she loves, and the way she gives her all to her brother is inspiring.
Ford, our stoic and stable hero, didn’t know what he signed up for when he let his kid neighbour start mowing his lawn. Some not so subtle hints about his own feelings and a rude wake up call to everything he’s holding himself back from probably wasn’t on his bingo card. But he is written to be stubborn and a little lost until Joe and Ivy find him, and that dynamic that Coney crafts (full of mischief, teasing, trust and admiration) between Joe and Ford brought me so much joy.
This is a story to read if you’re feeling like all you do is give your all for others, and you need the reminder that you matter too, or if you have lost sight of how to lean on others and need to be told there is strength in seeking support. It is beautifully written and I am, once again, so in awe of the way Lisina Coney’s mind works.
How lucky am I to have had the honour of reading this early!?
Infinity stars wouldn’t be enough ✨🩷
February 6, 2026
“I’m so in love with her, it hurts to exist in a world where the possibility of us not growing old together exists.”
Ivy and Ford. She moves back to her hometown since she’s the guardian of her sixteen year old brother, and he’s the grumpy firefighter next door neighbor. Ivy has a lot on her plate: juggling two jobs so she can provide for her brother and help him achieve his dreams of becoming a pilot, so she has no time for a relationship; and Ford is just getting over his messy divorce and told himself that he’s done with relationships.
I devoured this book!! I had to force myself to stop reading and go to sleep because I knew that I would stay up late to read! It was emotional, heartbreaking AND heartwarming. I love the banter between Ivy and Ford, and seeing their relationship grow. She’s a literal ball of sunshine even though she’s going through a lot; and he’s grumpy yet so protective and loving. All he wants is to take care of Ivy and Joe despite Ivy being hesitant to accept help because she’s been so independent all her life.
❤️🔥READ IF YOU LIKE❤️🔥:
- dual POV
- firefighter x artist
- cozy small town
- age gap: she’s 26, he’s 35
- she’s her teen brother’s guardian
- next door neighbors
- he’s grumpy but actually a teddy bear
- slow burn with spice
- lots of banter
- strangers to friends to lovers
cw: divorce, death of parental figure due to cancer, parental abandonment, car crash, driving under the influence, cheating
Thank you @netgalley and @lisinaconeyauthor for the advanced copy! Fragile Hopes is available on April 24, 2026!
Ivy and Ford. She moves back to her hometown since she’s the guardian of her sixteen year old brother, and he’s the grumpy firefighter next door neighbor. Ivy has a lot on her plate: juggling two jobs so she can provide for her brother and help him achieve his dreams of becoming a pilot, so she has no time for a relationship; and Ford is just getting over his messy divorce and told himself that he’s done with relationships.
I devoured this book!! I had to force myself to stop reading and go to sleep because I knew that I would stay up late to read! It was emotional, heartbreaking AND heartwarming. I love the banter between Ivy and Ford, and seeing their relationship grow. She’s a literal ball of sunshine even though she’s going through a lot; and he’s grumpy yet so protective and loving. All he wants is to take care of Ivy and Joe despite Ivy being hesitant to accept help because she’s been so independent all her life.
❤️🔥READ IF YOU LIKE❤️🔥:
- dual POV
- firefighter x artist
- cozy small town
- age gap: she’s 26, he’s 35
- she’s her teen brother’s guardian
- next door neighbors
- he’s grumpy but actually a teddy bear
- slow burn with spice
- lots of banter
- strangers to friends to lovers
cw: divorce, death of parental figure due to cancer, parental abandonment, car crash, driving under the influence, cheating
Thank you @netgalley and @lisinaconeyauthor for the advanced copy! Fragile Hopes is available on April 24, 2026!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fragile Hopes comes from Lisina Coney, who in the past couple of years has released a series of beautiful stories, and another beautiful, impactful standalone. The expectations going into this story were high (for me personally), as I know I adore Lisinas writing style and I knew the characters would be loveable.
Somehow, despite these expectations being super high, this book exceeded by miles.
Firstly, the writing. As previously mentioned, I already knew what to expect, but I was wrong. Lisina Coneys writing gets better with every book somehow, Fragile Hopes showed me that she has truly found her voice and writing style. The confident narrative and strong voice made this book even more enjoyable, and I can’t help but feel proud of a stranger, to witness this growth.
The story… the characters. So completely loveable. Joe stole the show, as a big sister to a brother who is 13 years younger than me I must admit I got emotional at times. The reality of big sister duties being blurred with maternal responsibility was captured with such accuracy, I was often left close to tears.
Ford & Ivy… ugh. What a pair of idiots… lovable idiots but still very silly. I adored them both, Ivys dry humour and Fords reluctance, the way Ford just wants to take care of Ivy. Just everything, it was absolutely perfect.
A thoroughly enjoyable read, I can’t wait to see what comes next!
I received this E-book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Somehow, despite these expectations being super high, this book exceeded by miles.
Firstly, the writing. As previously mentioned, I already knew what to expect, but I was wrong. Lisina Coneys writing gets better with every book somehow, Fragile Hopes showed me that she has truly found her voice and writing style. The confident narrative and strong voice made this book even more enjoyable, and I can’t help but feel proud of a stranger, to witness this growth.
The story… the characters. So completely loveable. Joe stole the show, as a big sister to a brother who is 13 years younger than me I must admit I got emotional at times. The reality of big sister duties being blurred with maternal responsibility was captured with such accuracy, I was often left close to tears.
Ford & Ivy… ugh. What a pair of idiots… lovable idiots but still very silly. I adored them both, Ivys dry humour and Fords reluctance, the way Ford just wants to take care of Ivy. Just everything, it was absolutely perfect.
A thoroughly enjoyable read, I can’t wait to see what comes next!
I received this E-book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely love anything that Lisina Coney writes, and I was SO excited for this new book in a brand new series. I loved this book so much! First of all, I am obsessed with firefighter romances, and Fragile Hopes completely delivered when it comes to this aspect. Ford and Ivy had such great chemistry and I loved that while they both had their reservations due to their trauma or what they were currently dealing with, they went from being strangers to enemies (ish) to friends to more, and the slow burn was really well written. I really loved how their age gap was handled, because Ford never felt overbearing, just steady, supportive, and like someone Ivy could truly lean on after carrying so much on her own. She was fierce and independent and never really took care of herself, putting others ahead instead, but Ford was such a master at breaking down her walls and showing her she deserved so much more. Watching their relationship slowly grow felt natural, emotional, and really satisfying. The sibling bond with Joe added so much heart to the story too, and he was just the best brother. This book had warmth, depth, and that quiet emotional pull Lisina Coney does so well. I could also kind of tell the direction we are heading with the next book in the series and it has one of my favorite tropes ever, so I am so excited for book two!
Thank you to NetGalley, Lisina Coney, and Victory Editing for the eARC of this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Lisina Coney, and Victory Editing for the eARC of this book.
February 5, 2026
4.75⭐️
Ohh god I adored this book. Tbh I went in almost blind, minus knowing there was a hot firefighter involved🧑🚒🧯and it did not disappoint!
It had lots of my fave tropes, neighbours, grumpy x sunshine; emotionally unavailable, (not a single mum but similar vibes?), fighting attraction✨❤️🔥.
Ivy, our fmc, is a strong, independent woman who is doing her absolute best to raise her brother and give him space to achieve his dreams. Her actions and character was so so admirable and her relationship with Joe was so precious , I loved their dynamic.
Ford, our mmc, is a kind & sweet man hidden behind a grump. I loved how he always used his actions to show how much he cared for those around him.
I loved the writing in this. The characters felt so well rounded, flawed and processing different traumas, but still kind and thoughtful. This was such an emotional read, I really went through the motions alongside the characters.
So I had one tiny tiny thing that bothered me *slight spoiler so pls be wary of reading this bit*.
Joe was traumatised about getting into a car with anyone but Ivy, but there was no hesitation or emotion portrayed when he seemingly just whisked off with his Aunt in a car?? It made sense when he’d get in a car with Ford as he trusted him, but someone he barely knew it just bothered me as it felt unrealistic to his trauma and experiences in the book.
I cannot wait for the next book!🥹
Ohh god I adored this book. Tbh I went in almost blind, minus knowing there was a hot firefighter involved🧑🚒🧯and it did not disappoint!
It had lots of my fave tropes, neighbours, grumpy x sunshine; emotionally unavailable, (not a single mum but similar vibes?), fighting attraction✨❤️🔥.
Ivy, our fmc, is a strong, independent woman who is doing her absolute best to raise her brother and give him space to achieve his dreams. Her actions and character was so so admirable and her relationship with Joe was so precious , I loved their dynamic.
Ford, our mmc, is a kind & sweet man hidden behind a grump. I loved how he always used his actions to show how much he cared for those around him.
I loved the writing in this. The characters felt so well rounded, flawed and processing different traumas, but still kind and thoughtful. This was such an emotional read, I really went through the motions alongside the characters.
So I had one tiny tiny thing that bothered me *slight spoiler so pls be wary of reading this bit*.
Joe was traumatised about getting into a car with anyone but Ivy, but there was no hesitation or emotion portrayed when he seemingly just whisked off with his Aunt in a car?? It made sense when he’d get in a car with Ford as he trusted him, but someone he barely knew it just bothered me as it felt unrealistic to his trauma and experiences in the book.
I cannot wait for the next book!🥹
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
Fragile Hopes was such a beautiful and heart-warming story of love in all of its messy, beautiful forms. I have been waiting for this book to come out ever since it was announced and it exceeded my expectations. Ivy and Ford's story was one built on friendship, yearning and absolute trust in one another. We see them meet as two souls who have been hurt in different ways and they gradually begin to open up to one another and find solace in the relationship they have been slowly building.
I especially loved the relationship between Joe and Ivy, they had so much love and respect for one another. Ivy worked so hard to help make Joe's dream of flight school come true, even at the expense of her own mental and physical health.
Ford's relationship with Joe was also absolutely wonderful. They built this brotherhood with each other as well as with Ford's other two brothers and I cannot wait to see it develop in further books.
The romance felt so organic, they had so many fears of letting themselves fall in love yet everyone around them could see from a mile away just how besotted they were with each other. They took their time and let their relationship blossom into something to beautiful and wholesome.
I am so excited to continue this series and revisit the wonderful town of Harmony Hills!
A big thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the E-ARC, I dropped everything to read it the moment I was approved!
Fragile Hopes was such a beautiful and heart-warming story of love in all of its messy, beautiful forms. I have been waiting for this book to come out ever since it was announced and it exceeded my expectations. Ivy and Ford's story was one built on friendship, yearning and absolute trust in one another. We see them meet as two souls who have been hurt in different ways and they gradually begin to open up to one another and find solace in the relationship they have been slowly building.
I especially loved the relationship between Joe and Ivy, they had so much love and respect for one another. Ivy worked so hard to help make Joe's dream of flight school come true, even at the expense of her own mental and physical health.
Ford's relationship with Joe was also absolutely wonderful. They built this brotherhood with each other as well as with Ford's other two brothers and I cannot wait to see it develop in further books.
The romance felt so organic, they had so many fears of letting themselves fall in love yet everyone around them could see from a mile away just how besotted they were with each other. They took their time and let their relationship blossom into something to beautiful and wholesome.
I am so excited to continue this series and revisit the wonderful town of Harmony Hills!
A big thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the E-ARC, I dropped everything to read it the moment I was approved!
February 10, 2026
ARC 📖Fragile Hopes by Lisina Coney
Thank you NetGalley and Victoria Editing for the ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First off, the sibling relationship between Ivy and Joe is the absolute best! Their banter makes me laugh and is so sentimental. Ivy is so protective of Joe and vise versa, they have each other’s backs and it’s such a beautiful relationship! You can feel the love pouring out of the pages from these two.
Ford is their jaded divorced firefighter neighbor. Did I mention how hot he is?? Anyways…Ford and Joe strike up a bit of a friendship and he in a way becomes a sort of father figure to Joe. Joe feels comfortable confiding in Ford and seeks his advice. Ford sees that Joe needs guidance but also that he needs and wants to figure it out himself so his way of communicating with him is so understanding.
Ford and Ivy did not have a good “meet-cute” 😆 BUT they end up talking it through and come to terms of being friends.
I have to come back to Ivy & Joe’s friendship because as the story unfolds it just shows the deep levels of what a true sibling dynamic needs/should be. There frustration, pride in the other, encouraging each other to chase their dreams, always having each others backs. They have rough patches like every sibling but their love for each other runs so deep 🤎
Can’t wait to see which story will be next in Harmony Hills, Nash or Rhys!
✨Age Gap - 26/35
✨Neighbors
✨Grumpy (at first)/Sunshine
✨Divorced Firefighter
✨Teen Brothers Guardian
Thank you NetGalley and Victoria Editing for the ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First off, the sibling relationship between Ivy and Joe is the absolute best! Their banter makes me laugh and is so sentimental. Ivy is so protective of Joe and vise versa, they have each other’s backs and it’s such a beautiful relationship! You can feel the love pouring out of the pages from these two.
Ford is their jaded divorced firefighter neighbor. Did I mention how hot he is?? Anyways…Ford and Joe strike up a bit of a friendship and he in a way becomes a sort of father figure to Joe. Joe feels comfortable confiding in Ford and seeks his advice. Ford sees that Joe needs guidance but also that he needs and wants to figure it out himself so his way of communicating with him is so understanding.
Ford and Ivy did not have a good “meet-cute” 😆 BUT they end up talking it through and come to terms of being friends.
I have to come back to Ivy & Joe’s friendship because as the story unfolds it just shows the deep levels of what a true sibling dynamic needs/should be. There frustration, pride in the other, encouraging each other to chase their dreams, always having each others backs. They have rough patches like every sibling but their love for each other runs so deep 🤎
Can’t wait to see which story will be next in Harmony Hills, Nash or Rhys!
✨Age Gap - 26/35
✨Neighbors
✨Grumpy (at first)/Sunshine
✨Divorced Firefighter
✨Teen Brothers Guardian
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
And she did it yet again. Lisina, how do you do this? I loved this book too!
There is a lot of things I want to write, but I will keep myself short and come back and add when the book is officially out to the public.
First of all i’m so happy I got the ARC, thank you NetGalley!
So, did i say i loved the book already? It’s fine let me repeat myself. I LOVED IT!!!
The slow-burning was burning. from strangers to neighbours to friends to each other’s crush to lovers ughhh…
The relationship dynamics of Ford and Ivy reminded me of Cal and Grace from TBLOS and I say that in a good way I love them too! They are the couple that ignited my love for Lisina Coney’ s books!
My poor Ivy going above and beyond for her brother Joe. Loved their sibling bond, telling each other “I love you”… My heart melted every single time! And Ford the mama bear he is.
All characters all my fave’s. I can’t wait for the next two books with Nash and Rhys. I want to see more of Ford’s savage mom, little Lexi and Alma!
Emotional, raw, real and funny…the book is all that I love in the author’s writing style. And how would I not, after all I’m her biggest fan in Bulgaria! I’m reading everything she writes.
Once again thank you so much NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing me with the ARC of my favourite author’s book!
Pub date Apr 24 2026
There is a lot of things I want to write, but I will keep myself short and come back and add when the book is officially out to the public.
First of all i’m so happy I got the ARC, thank you NetGalley!
So, did i say i loved the book already? It’s fine let me repeat myself. I LOVED IT!!!
The slow-burning was burning. from strangers to neighbours to friends to each other’s crush to lovers ughhh…
The relationship dynamics of Ford and Ivy reminded me of Cal and Grace from TBLOS and I say that in a good way I love them too! They are the couple that ignited my love for Lisina Coney’ s books!
My poor Ivy going above and beyond for her brother Joe. Loved their sibling bond, telling each other “I love you”… My heart melted every single time! And Ford the mama bear he is.
All characters all my fave’s. I can’t wait for the next two books with Nash and Rhys. I want to see more of Ford’s savage mom, little Lexi and Alma!
Emotional, raw, real and funny…the book is all that I love in the author’s writing style. And how would I not, after all I’m her biggest fan in Bulgaria! I’m reading everything she writes.
Once again thank you so much NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing me with the ARC of my favourite author’s book!
Pub date Apr 24 2026
February 9, 2026
This story was so cute and heartwarming! The fmc ivy has such a fun personality, and is so strong for taking on so much in her life. She takes care of her brother, Joe, as his legal guardian and she has a lot of her plate and I loved seeing a realistic depiction of someone struggling but doing all they can for someone they love. The mmc, ford, is their neighbor who is a firefighter. He has a grumpy personality, but only because he’s a private person. He’s also a hot firefighter with a white knight complex (give me 10 of him) But their personalities mix so well with each other. The town feels very Gilmore girls coded in the best way. I loved seeing everyone be so kind to one another, it had a great found family aspect. (Especially with fords brothers as well) I loved watching their relationship grow with each other, it was very sweet but very realistic while the two of them are struggling with their own battles. I also loved fords relationship with her brother as well. There was a lot of wonderful character growth for both mc’s and a lot of that had to do with them lifting each other up which I loved. It was so sweet watching them fall for Each other, but truthfully their relationship together with her brother really got me, especially the end. I was in tears! This was such a heartwarming read. *thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc copy!*
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"Fragile Hopes" is a cozy, emotional, swoon-worthy small-town romance that completely stole my heart. The firefighter love interest, selfless siblings and warm, tight-knit community vibes all had me hooked on this book from page one (well... from the blurb if we're being honest). I couldn't put this down and it went straight on my favorites list.
Ford and Ivy are absolutely lovable idiots and I'm a huge fan. Ford comes seems extra grumpy at first, but he’s actually the softest, most steady, quietly swoony man. The slow burn between these two is done in the best possible way. Strangers to neighbors to friends to idiots-in-love had me kicking my feet. Watching Ivy (who carries far more responsibility than she should ever have to) slowly let Ford in was so satisfying. The age gap was a supportive and grounding part of their relationship and never weird or overpowering.
And Joe? He's an absolute scene-stealer. The sibling bond between Ivy and Joe added so much heart and emotional weight to the story and I teared up more than once. Ford's family and their wonderful bond full of love and acceptance is another standout part. Fragile Hopes started the Harmony Hills series off perfectly with an emotional, raw, funny and tender story and I am beyond ready for the following books🩷
Thank you Lisina Coney, Victory Editing and NetGalley for a copy of "Fragile Hopes" in exchange for my honest review.
Ford and Ivy are absolutely lovable idiots and I'm a huge fan. Ford comes seems extra grumpy at first, but he’s actually the softest, most steady, quietly swoony man. The slow burn between these two is done in the best possible way. Strangers to neighbors to friends to idiots-in-love had me kicking my feet. Watching Ivy (who carries far more responsibility than she should ever have to) slowly let Ford in was so satisfying. The age gap was a supportive and grounding part of their relationship and never weird or overpowering.
And Joe? He's an absolute scene-stealer. The sibling bond between Ivy and Joe added so much heart and emotional weight to the story and I teared up more than once. Ford's family and their wonderful bond full of love and acceptance is another standout part. Fragile Hopes started the Harmony Hills series off perfectly with an emotional, raw, funny and tender story and I am beyond ready for the following books🩷
Thank you Lisina Coney, Victory Editing and NetGalley for a copy of "Fragile Hopes" in exchange for my honest review.
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