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Beyond Words
Vera's life feels like a never-ending page of heartbreak. Stuck in a toxic relationship, she's always dreamed of a love that rivals the passionate tales she devours in the pages of her favorite books. But when a moment of clarity finally pushes her to walk away, she finds herself standing at a crossroads—unsettled, but free.
Enter Matt, the charming owner of a small bar tucked in the heart of Autumn Hill. Beneath his rugged exterior lies a man with his own quiet battles, but something about Vera draws him in. Instinctively, he offers to help her find the kind of love she longs for—by arranging a series of perfect dates with other singles in the area. But as Matt plays matchmaker, he finds himself falling for the woman who's trying so hard to fall for someone else.
Sometimes, the most beautiful love stories aren't written—they're lived.
Enter Matt, the charming owner of a small bar tucked in the heart of Autumn Hill. Beneath his rugged exterior lies a man with his own quiet battles, but something about Vera draws him in. Instinctively, he offers to help her find the kind of love she longs for—by arranging a series of perfect dates with other singles in the area. But as Matt plays matchmaker, he finds himself falling for the woman who's trying so hard to fall for someone else.
Sometimes, the most beautiful love stories aren't written—they're lived.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2025
1 person is currently reading
4070 people want to read
About the author
Katerina Hope Hadlock
2 books21 followersKaterina (Hope) Hadlock was raised in the small town of Jacksonville, Illinois, where her love for storytelling first began. Now living in the state of Oregon, Hope spends her days writing.
From a young age, Hope was captivated by the power of words. Whether diving into the passionate twists of a romance or the chilling suspense of a thriller, she found comfort, escape, and inspiration in stories. That love for reading slowly turned into a passion for writing, one that has only grown with time. For her, writing is more than a craft; it's a way to connect, to feel deeply, and to explore the raw, beautiful parts of what it means to be human.
When she's not writing, you can find Hope curled up with a good book, wandering the Oregon coast, or chatting with her cat, Tiger, like he's her roommate. (He is, really.) She believes in quiet mornings, handwritten letters, and the magic of finding the right words at just the right time.
From a young age, Hope was captivated by the power of words. Whether diving into the passionate twists of a romance or the chilling suspense of a thriller, she found comfort, escape, and inspiration in stories. That love for reading slowly turned into a passion for writing, one that has only grown with time. For her, writing is more than a craft; it's a way to connect, to feel deeply, and to explore the raw, beautiful parts of what it means to be human.
When she's not writing, you can find Hope curled up with a good book, wandering the Oregon coast, or chatting with her cat, Tiger, like he's her roommate. (He is, really.) She believes in quiet mornings, handwritten letters, and the magic of finding the right words at just the right time.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
September 15, 2025
ARC Review:
This was a cute read, although it did have some more serious themed topics. I appreciated the way the humor and serious moments were balanced throughout. There were one or two inconsistencies, some typos, and punctuation errors, however those were easily overlooked and didn’t keep me from enjoying the story. Overall, this was a good read and I look forward to seeing future books by this author.
This was a cute read, although it did have some more serious themed topics. I appreciated the way the humor and serious moments were balanced throughout. There were one or two inconsistencies, some typos, and punctuation errors, however those were easily overlooked and didn’t keep me from enjoying the story. Overall, this was a good read and I look forward to seeing future books by this author.
September 11, 2025
ARC review:
I thought this book was cute. There are couple things that I thought could have been done better like the DV situation. I, as a reader, would have liked to have better details about the situation. It kind of felt like it was just used as a small plot point/ glossed over. I would have also liked more detail with the MMC’s situation with his family and his sister especially after reuniting. Other than that I thought it was super cute and a good read.
I thought this book was cute. There are couple things that I thought could have been done better like the DV situation. I, as a reader, would have liked to have better details about the situation. It kind of felt like it was just used as a small plot point/ glossed over. I would have also liked more detail with the MMC’s situation with his family and his sister especially after reuniting. Other than that I thought it was super cute and a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2025
ARC Review:
This book is probably one of my new favorites. Let me tell ya, I read a lot of romance books so that says something. I absolutely loved that it was Dual POV. It was steamy but not overdone. A lot of books I’ve read can sometimes go overboard on the spice. Not this one. I can’t wait for release day so my friends can read it.
This book is probably one of my new favorites. Let me tell ya, I read a lot of romance books so that says something. I absolutely loved that it was Dual POV. It was steamy but not overdone. A lot of books I’ve read can sometimes go overboard on the spice. Not this one. I can’t wait for release day so my friends can read it.
September 21, 2025
ARC Read
I really enjoyed the book and I liked the overall plot points. I thought the FMC Vera was super quirky and sweet and I enjoyed the MMC Matt stepping up to be the reliable friend she needed. My main reason for putting it at 3 instead of 4/5 stars was because I felt like a lot of things were just dropped. We met his sort of ex girlfriend, she became friends with Vera and meets Jack but then we never see her again. Matt finally has a chance to talk to Cora but then she has to go to bed and he needs to thank Vera even though they never actually had the conversation they were building too? And none of that compared to all the threats and build up to a showdown with Holden only for him to just go never mind and walk away?
I honestly really liked the book and the characters and I will definitely read more by this author. If there hadn’t been so many things that just sort of fell to the wayside this probably would have been a 5 star read for me based on the plot alone.
I really enjoyed the book and I liked the overall plot points. I thought the FMC Vera was super quirky and sweet and I enjoyed the MMC Matt stepping up to be the reliable friend she needed. My main reason for putting it at 3 instead of 4/5 stars was because I felt like a lot of things were just dropped. We met his sort of ex girlfriend, she became friends with Vera and meets Jack but then we never see her again. Matt finally has a chance to talk to Cora but then she has to go to bed and he needs to thank Vera even though they never actually had the conversation they were building too? And none of that compared to all the threats and build up to a showdown with Holden only for him to just go never mind and walk away?
I honestly really liked the book and the characters and I will definitely read more by this author. If there hadn’t been so many things that just sort of fell to the wayside this probably would have been a 5 star read for me based on the plot alone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2025
Hmmm… first of all, I would like to thank the author for allowing me to be a part of this ARC journey. To keep this long story short, it was a very nice book to read. It even made me cry at some point.
However, some parts of the story were very well developed, and some not so much. We meet Matt’s (our MMC’s) ex-situationship, who then becomes friends with Vera (the FMC). They hang out once, and we never see her again. Another thing was the showdown between Vera and her abusive ex -who suddenly gives up and admits his guilt. Such an abusive, toxic man for most of the story suddenly changing his mind out of the blue? It may sound vague, but I don’t want to provide too many spoilers.
One additional thing I appreciated was that Vera and Matt (based on his past) go to therapy. All in all, it was an interesting story with a lot of potential. I can also add that I absolutely adore Matt! I’d give this story 6 out of 10 stars -unfortunately, Goodreads only allows up to 5 stars.
However, some parts of the story were very well developed, and some not so much. We meet Matt’s (our MMC’s) ex-situationship, who then becomes friends with Vera (the FMC). They hang out once, and we never see her again. Another thing was the showdown between Vera and her abusive ex -who suddenly gives up and admits his guilt. Such an abusive, toxic man for most of the story suddenly changing his mind out of the blue? It may sound vague, but I don’t want to provide too many spoilers.
One additional thing I appreciated was that Vera and Matt (based on his past) go to therapy. All in all, it was an interesting story with a lot of potential. I can also add that I absolutely adore Matt! I’d give this story 6 out of 10 stars -unfortunately, Goodreads only allows up to 5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2025
I adored everything about this book the setting in Autumn Hill, the warmth of the characters, and the beautifully slow build between Vera and Matt. The author captures that magical mix of heartbreak, hope, and healing so well. It’s like watching a Hallmark movie but with deeper emotional layers and real heart. I didn’t want it to end!
December 31, 2025
Vera and Matt’s story felt real and authentic. I loved that they were both flawed and had insecurities, making them more relatable.
I’m also a huge fan of a dual POV and this one was done nicely. Getting to hear the inner dialogue of both characters and every moment they were nervous for and excited for and their building feelings for each other made this read draw me in.
There were a lot of side characters that could definitely be explored more, but they were able to give us the full picture of who Matt and Vera are. Like the fact that Matt was there to meet his best friend’s baby the day she was born and he lets Jack stay with him because his heart is so big. And how Vera learned ASL not ‘for’ Logan but because she knew she wanted to be her friend so of course she needed to speak her language.
I’ll admit there were a couple points I wanted to yell at them both for not acting on their feelings. But that’s real life, you never know what the other person is truly thinking or feeling. Even after their night in the bar, Vera put things on pause because it’s hard to tell what a person’s true intentions are. I loved seeing Matt work so hard to break down every single one of the walls she put up over and over.
This story covered some really heavy topics but they are so real. Abuse breaks a person. I really loved that Vera reminded Matt that his mom was strong even if she stayed. Nobody wants to be abused, but once they’re in that situation it can be impossible to get out. Like Vera said, she lost all things comfortable and familiar to her when she left. But what a story of triumph that she left and found someone who loved her the way she always should have been loved. How everyone should be loved.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. It told a story unlike any romance I’ve read - real life, real hardships, and real love. The author didn’t shy away from difficult topics that matter so much. I think so many people, including myself, will appreciate the representation of communities that aren’t always seen in this genre, including people experiencing abuse, children from abusive households, and the Deaf Community.
I’m looking forward to more from this series! I’m also so curious where Logan was in the epilogue…
I’m also a huge fan of a dual POV and this one was done nicely. Getting to hear the inner dialogue of both characters and every moment they were nervous for and excited for and their building feelings for each other made this read draw me in.
There were a lot of side characters that could definitely be explored more, but they were able to give us the full picture of who Matt and Vera are. Like the fact that Matt was there to meet his best friend’s baby the day she was born and he lets Jack stay with him because his heart is so big. And how Vera learned ASL not ‘for’ Logan but because she knew she wanted to be her friend so of course she needed to speak her language.
I’ll admit there were a couple points I wanted to yell at them both for not acting on their feelings. But that’s real life, you never know what the other person is truly thinking or feeling. Even after their night in the bar, Vera put things on pause because it’s hard to tell what a person’s true intentions are. I loved seeing Matt work so hard to break down every single one of the walls she put up over and over.
This story covered some really heavy topics but they are so real. Abuse breaks a person. I really loved that Vera reminded Matt that his mom was strong even if she stayed. Nobody wants to be abused, but once they’re in that situation it can be impossible to get out. Like Vera said, she lost all things comfortable and familiar to her when she left. But what a story of triumph that she left and found someone who loved her the way she always should have been loved. How everyone should be loved.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. It told a story unlike any romance I’ve read - real life, real hardships, and real love. The author didn’t shy away from difficult topics that matter so much. I think so many people, including myself, will appreciate the representation of communities that aren’t always seen in this genre, including people experiencing abuse, children from abusive households, and the Deaf Community.
I’m looking forward to more from this series! I’m also so curious where Logan was in the epilogue…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️This book was really cute for having some heavier topics.
Vera is in an abusive relationship with Holden, they have been together for 8 years now. One day Vera is visiting her grandmother and Holden starts messaging her, she knows that means it’s time for her to go home before he gets upset. Later after she gets home she gets a call from the hospital saying her grandmother was there, but before she can get anymore information Holden gets mad and hangs up her phone. Vera is furious, but like always Holden gets his way, he tells her he will check up on her.
After a fight with Holden, Vera is driven while upset and unfortunately doesn’t see a red light and gets into an accident…enters MATT 😍😍 Matt is the owner of the local bar, he has a bit of trauma that he is dealing with from his past but he is a great guy that helps the people he cares about. After the accident he can’t stop thinking about Vera.
While in the hospital Vera finds out somethings that make her reach her breaking point with Holden. She goes back to their home and packs a bag and leave and ends up at Matt’s bar. Will these two fix each other, or will Vera run back to Holden?
I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.
Vera is in an abusive relationship with Holden, they have been together for 8 years now. One day Vera is visiting her grandmother and Holden starts messaging her, she knows that means it’s time for her to go home before he gets upset. Later after she gets home she gets a call from the hospital saying her grandmother was there, but before she can get anymore information Holden gets mad and hangs up her phone. Vera is furious, but like always Holden gets his way, he tells her he will check up on her.
After a fight with Holden, Vera is driven while upset and unfortunately doesn’t see a red light and gets into an accident…enters MATT 😍😍 Matt is the owner of the local bar, he has a bit of trauma that he is dealing with from his past but he is a great guy that helps the people he cares about. After the accident he can’t stop thinking about Vera.
While in the hospital Vera finds out somethings that make her reach her breaking point with Holden. She goes back to their home and packs a bag and leave and ends up at Matt’s bar. Will these two fix each other, or will Vera run back to Holden?
I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2025
Beyond Words by Hope Hadlock is a beautifully written debut romance that captures both heartbreak and healing. The story follows Vera, a woman trapped in a toxic relationship who has been debating whether to leave for far too long. After an unexpected accident forces her to reexamine her life, Vera finally finds the courage to walk away and start over.
As she rebuilds her life, Vera meets Matt, the manager of a local bar who has his own emotional struggles. What begins as a cautious friendship gradually blossoms into something deeper. Their connection feels genuine and real, filled with moments of vulnerability, humor, and tenderness.
Hadlock’s writing shines in the way she balances serious, emotional themes with lighthearted and hopeful moments. Beyond Words is a “spicy” romance, but the author handles it with taste and depth, making the story both passionate and meaningful.
If you enjoy contemporary romance novels with realistic characters, emotional growth, and a touch of heat, Beyond Words is a must-read. Hope Hadlock is definitely an author to watch—you won’t be disappointed.
As she rebuilds her life, Vera meets Matt, the manager of a local bar who has his own emotional struggles. What begins as a cautious friendship gradually blossoms into something deeper. Their connection feels genuine and real, filled with moments of vulnerability, humor, and tenderness.
Hadlock’s writing shines in the way she balances serious, emotional themes with lighthearted and hopeful moments. Beyond Words is a “spicy” romance, but the author handles it with taste and depth, making the story both passionate and meaningful.
If you enjoy contemporary romance novels with realistic characters, emotional growth, and a touch of heat, Beyond Words is a must-read. Hope Hadlock is definitely an author to watch—you won’t be disappointed.
September 21, 2025
A sharp, engaging read that kept me hooked from the start. The pacing flowed well, the characters felt alive, and there were enough twists to keep me invested. While it didn’t quite hit that flawless 5-star spark for me, it was still a fantastic story that delivered on tension, intrigue, and emotion. Definitely one I’d recommend picking up.
September 22, 2025
This book was such a wonderful read! Watching the main character rediscover her confidence and inner strength after surviving an abusive relationship was both powerful and inspiring. Her journey toward healing, along with finding an unexpected and enduring love, made this story truly moving and unforgettable.
September 16, 2025
I really enjoyed this read, Vera is a strong woman who is in an abusive relationship but can’t seem to get out. Over 8 years she has had to deal with this until she managed to escape and go on to try and find a life for herself to follow all of her dreams.
Enters Matt….👀 he is a strong but emotional man who has some trauma himself, I really liked how he was portrayed (you don’t read about many male characters that are this way)
I would’ve liked more about Holden and the feelings Vera had to work through as I feel as soon as it was ‘resolved’ that whole situation was forgotten about but overall I really enjoyed this wholesome read and I am shipping V&M🤩
Thank you Katerina for allowing me to read this book🩷
Enters Matt….👀 he is a strong but emotional man who has some trauma himself, I really liked how he was portrayed (you don’t read about many male characters that are this way)
I would’ve liked more about Holden and the feelings Vera had to work through as I feel as soon as it was ‘resolved’ that whole situation was forgotten about but overall I really enjoyed this wholesome read and I am shipping V&M🤩
Thank you Katerina for allowing me to read this book🩷
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2025
Reading Beyond Words was a heartfelt, rewarding experience that left me with a goofy, satisfied grin on my face (and maybe a happy tear or two in my eyes). This book took me through a gamut of feelings in the best way. I laughed, I cried, I cheered! And by the last page I felt like I was saying goodbye to dear friends. Hadlock has crafted a story that isn’t just a romance, but also a gentle call to anyone who’s ever felt stuck or unloved, urging them to take a leap of faith. As a fellow reader who often daydreams about storybook romances, I found Beyond Words incredibly validating and uplifting. It’s personal and intimate, yet there’s a universality to it; you can’t help but see bits of your own hopes and fears in Vera and Matt’s journey. The novel is also very engaging, the conversational tone and relatable inner thoughts made me feel like I understood these characters, as if a friend were recounting a meaningful chapter of their life <3
December 9, 2025
Beyond Words is a heartfelt, emotionally rich romance that quietly pulls you in and stays with you long after the final page. Vera’s journey of leaving a toxic relationship and rediscovering herself felt incredibly real and deeply relatable, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way.
The slow-burn connection between Vera and Matt is gentle, meaningful, and rooted in kindness and emotional safety. I especially loved the friendship dynamics in this story and how much space it gives to healing, hope, and choosing yourself. This book touched me in ways I didn’t expect and reminded me that some of the most beautiful love stories aren’t rushed—they’re lived. Highly recommend for readers who love emotional contemporary romance.
The slow-burn connection between Vera and Matt is gentle, meaningful, and rooted in kindness and emotional safety. I especially loved the friendship dynamics in this story and how much space it gives to healing, hope, and choosing yourself. This book touched me in ways I didn’t expect and reminded me that some of the most beautiful love stories aren’t rushed—they’re lived. Highly recommend for readers who love emotional contemporary romance.
October 7, 2025
I definitely enjoyed this book.
It touches on a heavy topic (DV) but I feel it was done in a way that was not super triggering (at least in my opinion)
The FMC was so quirky I definitely enjoyed her. The book was not super spicy more on the tasteful side of spice. So if you are a person who isnt super into spicy books it definitely deserves a read. I definitely reccomend this book if you like romance and low spice.
It touches on a heavy topic (DV) but I feel it was done in a way that was not super triggering (at least in my opinion)
The FMC was so quirky I definitely enjoyed her. The book was not super spicy more on the tasteful side of spice. So if you are a person who isnt super into spicy books it definitely deserves a read. I definitely reccomend this book if you like romance and low spice.
October 24, 2025
This book absolutely stole my heart. Vera’s journey from heartbreak to healing is written with such honesty and grace that I found myself completely swept away. Her chemistry with Matt is slow-burn perfection tender, genuine, and deeply emotional. I laughed, I teared up, and I closed the last page feeling like I’d just lived a love story of my own. A beautifully written reminder that the best love stories often find us when we least expect them.
September 23, 2025
Writing this book was the most incredible experience of my life. Having some time away and getting things together for the release has been such a bittersweet feeling. I love the characters I worked so hard to bring to life in this book, and I miss them dearly already.
I look forward to continuing to write and explore more stories just like this one.
I look forward to continuing to write and explore more stories just like this one.
November 25, 2025
The writing is so tender and emotional. Vera learning to choose herself first was beautiful, and watching Matt fall for her while trying to help her find love elsewhere? Absolute perfection.
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