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Hearts of Willowrun #1
Shelved Hearts
GABE
After the relationship I escaped, safety means keeping my life small: Evergreen Books, my apartment above it, and the people I trust. Then Noah Richards needs a place to stay. My younger brother’s best friend is all grown up now—steady, warm, and impossible to ignore. He sees me in ways I can't see myself, and suddenly I’m wondering if trust, and maybe love, could feel safe again.
But is love enough to save me from my own mind?
NOAH
Coming back to Willowrun was supposed to be simple: open Anchor Strength, reconnect with my best friend, settle down. Then I move in with Gabe Shaw. Gabe, who doesn’t realize how beautiful he is, or how easy he is to want. I can see he’s hurting, but I also see the man beneath it—someone who deserves patience, laughter, and a love that stays. He might never want me back, but if being his safe place is all I get, I’ll take it… even if my heart wants more.
Shelved Hearts is a slow-burn MM romance about healing from past abuse, rediscovering trust, and finding love in an unexpected place. With themes of recovery, vulnerability, and chosen family, Shelved Hearts balances emotional depth with heartfelt, swoony spice.
*This story contains heavy topics that could potentially be triggering. A content warning list will be available in the book. Prior to release please visit the author's Instagram for more information/details.
601 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 6, 2026
55 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
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Review of advance copy received from Author
Some books are written, not for entertainment, but to change something in the reader. This book is one of those for me.
Gabe's trauma is handled with so much care, and I couldn’t look away for one second.
The small things hurt the most - like the Oreo cookies he couldn’t buy for so long because they were tied to bad memories. The fact that something so ordinary could hold so much pain. And then Noah quietly putting them in the basket for him?
That moment meant EVERYTHING.
The panic attack in the bookstore had me in literal tears. Noah talking him through it so gently. Not touching him, just talking to him, bringing him back to himself.
The first hug - the first time Gabe chose to reach out and touch someone.
Yes, tears again. This book did that a lot to me.
The side characters, their little family...but especially Abbie and Ciarán, felt like real, lived-in friendships. The kind that hold you together when you're falling apart. Gabe couldn't have asked for better friends.
This story doesn't rush healing. It shows how nonlinear and terrifying it can be.
Gabe self-sabotages. He spirals. He believes he's too broken to be loved. And yet Noah NEVER wavers. He doesn't try to fix him. He just stays.
The intimacy in this book isn't just physical.
It's emotional reclamation.
Gabe choosing to hold Noah's hand. To touch him.
Choosing to share a bed because he wants to.
Choosing therapy.
Choosing to stay.
When the ex shows up…it's...devastating.
The aftermath nearly broke me 😭
The suicide attempt was handled with raw honesty, and Noah's quiet devastation afterward - checking Gabe's breathing at night, barely sleeping - was just as heartbreaking 😭
But this book is ultimately about hope. About love that doesn't give up. EVER.
About building a life after surviving something horrific.
Choosing to trust, and to love again with everything you have.
The epilogue - ten years later, married, two little girls - felt so hard earned.
This was soft. Brutal. Healing. Absolutely beautiful.
Gabe's trauma is handled with so much care, and I couldn’t look away for one second.
The small things hurt the most - like the Oreo cookies he couldn’t buy for so long because they were tied to bad memories. The fact that something so ordinary could hold so much pain. And then Noah quietly putting them in the basket for him?
That moment meant EVERYTHING.
The panic attack in the bookstore had me in literal tears. Noah talking him through it so gently. Not touching him, just talking to him, bringing him back to himself.
The first hug - the first time Gabe chose to reach out and touch someone.
Yes, tears again. This book did that a lot to me.
The side characters, their little family...but especially Abbie and Ciarán, felt like real, lived-in friendships. The kind that hold you together when you're falling apart. Gabe couldn't have asked for better friends.
This story doesn't rush healing. It shows how nonlinear and terrifying it can be.
Gabe self-sabotages. He spirals. He believes he's too broken to be loved. And yet Noah NEVER wavers. He doesn't try to fix him. He just stays.
The intimacy in this book isn't just physical.
It's emotional reclamation.
Gabe choosing to hold Noah's hand. To touch him.
Choosing to share a bed because he wants to.
Choosing therapy.
Choosing to stay.
When the ex shows up…it's...devastating.
The aftermath nearly broke me 😭
The suicide attempt was handled with raw honesty, and Noah's quiet devastation afterward - checking Gabe's breathing at night, barely sleeping - was just as heartbreaking 😭
But this book is ultimately about hope. About love that doesn't give up. EVER.
About building a life after surviving something horrific.
Choosing to trust, and to love again with everything you have.
The epilogue - ten years later, married, two little girls - felt so hard earned.
This was soft. Brutal. Healing. Absolutely beautiful.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Shelved Hearts
Laura Kain
Gabe & Noah
Brothers best friend
Forced Proximity
Pining
Care taking / Soft traumatized love interest
Slow burn
Trauma recovery / Self worth arc
Found Family
Protective sunshine / Anxious introvert
So, I’m not crying, you’re crying. This was absolutely fantastic. What a beautiful, tender, romantic, sweet love story. Two people finding home in each other.
This was written so well, the pacing felt perfect. Sweet, funny, tender, emotional, spicy… this hit all the boxes.
Gabe and Noah were literally perfect for each other. They saw each other, truly saw each other, for who they really were. Ugh my heart this was beautiful.
A slow burn romance but it felt so right. The intimacy, safety, and vulnerability felt so perfect.
Gabe had been through a horrible trauma, I don’t think he had ever really dealt with it, he tried to hide it, but these things never truly stay in the dark.
Noah had never really felt like anywhere, but Gabe was his home, Gabe made him feel seen and loved. Ugh these two, what a stunning beautiful romantic book.
Now there are some very challenging scenes in here, definitely check your triggers, they are clearly labelled.
I also think the way these sensitive topics were handled was done well. I just wanted to wrap these two in a protective bubble.
The friend group in this was everything, truly loving and supportive. I cannot wait for the next book … C!!!! EEK I loved all of them.
Once these two felt comfortable to have spicy times … shooooottt, phew, so hot, wow, fantastic scenes. I think they were so good, because they had such trust and love for each other that they could be free and comfortable. They had such a solid foundation. So good.
I adored this world. I loved these two. I am so excited to read more from this author and this world!
This is absolutely going into my top books of the year for sure
So thankful for this arc.
Laura Kain
Gabe & Noah
Brothers best friend
Forced Proximity
Pining
Care taking / Soft traumatized love interest
Slow burn
Trauma recovery / Self worth arc
Found Family
Protective sunshine / Anxious introvert
So, I’m not crying, you’re crying. This was absolutely fantastic. What a beautiful, tender, romantic, sweet love story. Two people finding home in each other.
This was written so well, the pacing felt perfect. Sweet, funny, tender, emotional, spicy… this hit all the boxes.
Gabe and Noah were literally perfect for each other. They saw each other, truly saw each other, for who they really were. Ugh my heart this was beautiful.
A slow burn romance but it felt so right. The intimacy, safety, and vulnerability felt so perfect.
Gabe had been through a horrible trauma, I don’t think he had ever really dealt with it, he tried to hide it, but these things never truly stay in the dark.
Noah had never really felt like anywhere, but Gabe was his home, Gabe made him feel seen and loved. Ugh these two, what a stunning beautiful romantic book.
Now there are some very challenging scenes in here, definitely check your triggers, they are clearly labelled.
I also think the way these sensitive topics were handled was done well. I just wanted to wrap these two in a protective bubble.
The friend group in this was everything, truly loving and supportive. I cannot wait for the next book … C!!!! EEK I loved all of them.
Once these two felt comfortable to have spicy times … shooooottt, phew, so hot, wow, fantastic scenes. I think they were so good, because they had such trust and love for each other that they could be free and comfortable. They had such a solid foundation. So good.
I adored this world. I loved these two. I am so excited to read more from this author and this world!
This is absolutely going into my top books of the year for sure
So thankful for this arc.
March 6, 2026
i will stand by that the hurt-comfort paired with genuine care taking and soft love in this might just have me in a chokehold that i never wanna be free from.
these characters were effortlessly beautiful and felt truly authentic in every sense of the word — i have said this before but if a piece of writing can feel like i am reading a personal diary, seeing their private, intimate and vulnerable thoughts, then this is the writing for me, it seals in such an experience that you are captivated in and that’s simply how i felt while reading this book.
for this to be a debut is extraordinary and i am 100% keeping track on future books from this author because she has set up the most beautiful friendship group and found family that i am on my knees for and need their books immediately.
this book focuses on quite heavy and emotional themes, healing from trauma, mental health rep, touch avoidance but desperately starved for it, finding yourself again - and it delivered ten fold. the surrounding support system that our gabe has is everything and i am just in love with them all, like can i move to willowrun? just let me live my slow and steady, soft life with these angels and enjoy book club and breakfast coffee dates and cooking for eachother, it’s everything you want from a small town romance.
i highly recommend this read, if you want emotional depth, real authentic soft love with all the big and deep feelings with men who are totally obsessed with each other then this is all you.
it’s gotta be said though, the spice hits so fcking good — do not be fooled by this review, as much as these boys are the sweetest of souls, gentle with love and care, they are down right filthy and i ate every single crumb.
ty for the ARC
run don’t walk okayyyyy OUT MARCH 6 🖤
these characters were effortlessly beautiful and felt truly authentic in every sense of the word — i have said this before but if a piece of writing can feel like i am reading a personal diary, seeing their private, intimate and vulnerable thoughts, then this is the writing for me, it seals in such an experience that you are captivated in and that’s simply how i felt while reading this book.
for this to be a debut is extraordinary and i am 100% keeping track on future books from this author because she has set up the most beautiful friendship group and found family that i am on my knees for and need their books immediately.
this book focuses on quite heavy and emotional themes, healing from trauma, mental health rep, touch avoidance but desperately starved for it, finding yourself again - and it delivered ten fold. the surrounding support system that our gabe has is everything and i am just in love with them all, like can i move to willowrun? just let me live my slow and steady, soft life with these angels and enjoy book club and breakfast coffee dates and cooking for eachother, it’s everything you want from a small town romance.
i highly recommend this read, if you want emotional depth, real authentic soft love with all the big and deep feelings with men who are totally obsessed with each other then this is all you.
it’s gotta be said though, the spice hits so fcking good — do not be fooled by this review, as much as these boys are the sweetest of souls, gentle with love and care, they are down right filthy and i ate every single crumb.
ty for the ARC
run don’t walk okayyyyy OUT MARCH 6 🖤
Read
December 10, 2025Beta read, I will rate and review the published version at a later date
March 6, 2026
Not finished yet but it became a 5 start right at chapter 2…… review to come later when i finish the book :)
March 7, 2026
I think a lot of this book is the before… before you realise you deserve to feel better, have more, be happy! Before that it’s just so much harder not that the healing itself isn’t hard but the resistance the doubt makes everything so so much harder. It makes this book hard to read in parts. Not that Noah isn’t looking to belong and has his own struggles in book but god Gabe, Gabe just breaks my heart.
Thank fully the author gives him a support system and resources and Noah. Sweet kind all in Noah. and in the end I love how Gabe chooses more for himself chooses to seek help he needs to make his journey earsier
This is a tough book to review because the author parses through all the naked parts of trauma.
And it’s not like there isn’t beautiful light and laughter in this book.
So here are some reasons I think you should read this story
- non linear healing
- It’s a story of hope at the end of it
- Learning to lean
- Finding your person and learning to trust
- Exceptional family and found found family
- Hilarious notes
- Small wins and big breakthroughs which are cathartic
- Great cheeky banter
- Exceptional side characters which need their own stories
- Fiery chemistry
- It’s a bookstore
- Some of you love soup
- There are cookies
- And Italian food
- 80’s movies and music
- Tattoos
the only thing is, coffee didn’t get the limelight so you’ll have to make do with tea
I loved the pacing of this book, it takes it’s time but it’s gripping and it deserves time to be read and absorbed.
I highly recommend reading it, the trigger warning have been carefully detailed by the author so take care of yourself.
Thank fully the author gives him a support system and resources and Noah. Sweet kind all in Noah. and in the end I love how Gabe chooses more for himself chooses to seek help he needs to make his journey earsier
This is a tough book to review because the author parses through all the naked parts of trauma.
And it’s not like there isn’t beautiful light and laughter in this book.
So here are some reasons I think you should read this story
- non linear healing
- It’s a story of hope at the end of it
- Learning to lean
- Finding your person and learning to trust
- Exceptional family and found found family
- Hilarious notes
- Small wins and big breakthroughs which are cathartic
- Great cheeky banter
- Exceptional side characters which need their own stories
- Fiery chemistry
- It’s a bookstore
- Some of you love soup
- There are cookies
- And Italian food
- 80’s movies and music
- Tattoos
the only thing is, coffee didn’t get the limelight so you’ll have to make do with tea
I loved the pacing of this book, it takes it’s time but it’s gripping and it deserves time to be read and absorbed.
I highly recommend reading it, the trigger warning have been carefully detailed by the author so take care of yourself.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once again I'm speechless. What a debut novel! Right off the bat, I was already in love with sweet baby Gabe. Seeing him grow into who wanted to be was beautiful. Noah didn't help per se but he was there every step of Gabes journey. These two are adorable and I loved how Noah was with Gabe.
I'm still thinking about how the last chapter ended right before the even more wonderful epilouge. It was beautiful
oh and we definitely cant forget about the delicious spice and the mouth that Noah has.
Overall, wonderful! I loved it so much and definitely will be eating up every little bread crumbs you give because I can not wait for Ciaran's book!
I'm still thinking about how the last chapter ended right before the even more wonderful epilouge. It was beautiful
oh and we definitely cant forget about the delicious spice and the mouth that Noah has.
Overall, wonderful! I loved it so much and definitely will be eating up every little bread crumbs you give because I can not wait for Ciaran's book!
did-not-finish
March 6, 2026DNF @ 17% - I really like the themes, but the writing style is not great (some of it is fine, but it keeps lapsing into that AI-style) and it's kinda dull. 600 pages? No thanks.
February 28, 2026
I don’t even know where to start with this book but I think it’s by saying that this is my second 6 ⭐️ of the year!
This book is so unbelievably sweet and romantic and also has some exceptional spicy scenes but absolutely everything is done with an abundance of love attached to it. This book has my whole heart right now.
After years away and unhappy in the city, Noah moved back to town to pursue him and his best friend’s dream of opening up their own Gym. He’s trying to make it work while getting everything off the ground but every penny matters. When his best friend, Aiden, suggests he move in with his brother, Gabe, to save money he knows it’s a smart decision for his wallet but would be it a safe choice for his heart?
Gabe is a bookstore owner who’s spend the last year-ish trying to burry the past as far as it will go but his scar is a daily reminder of all the pain and fear. His safe space is his store, his two friends Ciarán and Abbie, and his brother Aiden but sometimes even that’s not enough to keep the nightmares and shadows at bay. When Aiden suggests he lets Gabe, their childhood family friend, live with him as their gym gets off the ground Gabe doesn’t know if he’s ready to let another man into his safe space yet but decides to give it a shot.
As the two men reconnect Noah realizes that his feelings never dulled over the years and Gabe starts to appreciate how solid and reliable Noah is when push comes to shove. Feelings grow and are explored but healing is never an easy journey for anyone and it tests both Gabe’s willingness to trust again and Noah’s ability to remain strong in the face of Gabe’s past.
This is a story about true love and remembering you deserve someone who would give you their last Oreo. ❤️
This is a medium burn with one hell of a pay off. Mostly all the spice is toward the second half and it’s well earned, hot as hell, but so filled with love and devotion and trust ALL at the same time. Noah has a MOUTH ON HIM that brings out the best in Gabe and I loved every second of it. 3.75/5 🌶️
Please check the trigger warnings on this because your mental health is more important than any book. That being said, all things are mentioned in past tense or memories/nightmares and nothing bad happens to the MMC’s durring their time together. There are episodes of trauma related panic attacks but Gabe is safe during those because Noah is his rock 🖤
Overall this book is perfect and I love it so freaking much. It was a pleasant change up from the more darker things I’ve been reading lately and I’ll never look at Oreos the same again (in the best way). I’m eager to watch this world expand and I can’t WAIT For Ciaráns book! I love a sassy brat X grumpy bear dynamic and it was oozing off the page!
It’s wild that my top two books of the year have borne been debuts! I love watching this community expand and grow!
Thank you to the Author for the ARC! All thoughts are my own.
This book is so unbelievably sweet and romantic and also has some exceptional spicy scenes but absolutely everything is done with an abundance of love attached to it. This book has my whole heart right now.
After years away and unhappy in the city, Noah moved back to town to pursue him and his best friend’s dream of opening up their own Gym. He’s trying to make it work while getting everything off the ground but every penny matters. When his best friend, Aiden, suggests he move in with his brother, Gabe, to save money he knows it’s a smart decision for his wallet but would be it a safe choice for his heart?
Gabe is a bookstore owner who’s spend the last year-ish trying to burry the past as far as it will go but his scar is a daily reminder of all the pain and fear. His safe space is his store, his two friends Ciarán and Abbie, and his brother Aiden but sometimes even that’s not enough to keep the nightmares and shadows at bay. When Aiden suggests he lets Gabe, their childhood family friend, live with him as their gym gets off the ground Gabe doesn’t know if he’s ready to let another man into his safe space yet but decides to give it a shot.
As the two men reconnect Noah realizes that his feelings never dulled over the years and Gabe starts to appreciate how solid and reliable Noah is when push comes to shove. Feelings grow and are explored but healing is never an easy journey for anyone and it tests both Gabe’s willingness to trust again and Noah’s ability to remain strong in the face of Gabe’s past.
This is a story about true love and remembering you deserve someone who would give you their last Oreo. ❤️
This is a medium burn with one hell of a pay off. Mostly all the spice is toward the second half and it’s well earned, hot as hell, but so filled with love and devotion and trust ALL at the same time. Noah has a MOUTH ON HIM that brings out the best in Gabe and I loved every second of it. 3.75/5 🌶️
Please check the trigger warnings on this because your mental health is more important than any book. That being said, all things are mentioned in past tense or memories/nightmares and nothing bad happens to the MMC’s durring their time together. There are episodes of trauma related panic attacks but Gabe is safe during those because Noah is his rock 🖤
Overall this book is perfect and I love it so freaking much. It was a pleasant change up from the more darker things I’ve been reading lately and I’ll never look at Oreos the same again (in the best way). I’m eager to watch this world expand and I can’t WAIT For Ciaráns book! I love a sassy brat X grumpy bear dynamic and it was oozing off the page!
It’s wild that my top two books of the year have borne been debuts! I love watching this community expand and grow!
Thank you to the Author for the ARC! All thoughts are my own.
March 9, 2026
This is my 2nd five star of the year. This book. These characters. What a stunning journey to be allowed in on. This is a slow burn and if it were any faster it would do would do such a disservice to these characters journey. Three pages long kissing scenes, pinky touches and hand holding that feel more intimate than the later sex scenes.
This book is the most quiet, tender, thoughtful look into finding yourself again after abuse and allowing another person to sit with and love you so patiently and with such honesty and integrity and in a way that you are fully seen including the parts you have a hard time wanting to see yourself. Every physically intimate move these charcters make is intentional and poignant and a moment as a reader you feel lucky to be witnessing becase you see how special the moment is for these characters.
Gabe is the most tender of souls and his struggle to find his way back to himself was equal parts joy and pain. This shy bookstore owner who just wants to give people a place to feel safe and belong does that all while battling his deep anxiety and trauma.
Noah-the most beautiful human whose love has no limits. His tender approach to Gabe was everything.
Noah who has only wanted a place to belong, a home, people to claim him as theirs is the most beautiful caretaker of others and it’s so special to watch him fall fully in love and be loved.
The found family Laura has created in this series is everything. I already want books 2,3,4,5,6. Or however many she gives us. Each character that is brought into this story holds purpose and moved the story along while also having you root for them to have their own story. The friend group is so fun and full of unique characters and I just can’t wait for what’s coming!
This book is the most quiet, tender, thoughtful look into finding yourself again after abuse and allowing another person to sit with and love you so patiently and with such honesty and integrity and in a way that you are fully seen including the parts you have a hard time wanting to see yourself. Every physically intimate move these charcters make is intentional and poignant and a moment as a reader you feel lucky to be witnessing becase you see how special the moment is for these characters.
Gabe is the most tender of souls and his struggle to find his way back to himself was equal parts joy and pain. This shy bookstore owner who just wants to give people a place to feel safe and belong does that all while battling his deep anxiety and trauma.
Noah-the most beautiful human whose love has no limits. His tender approach to Gabe was everything.
Noah who has only wanted a place to belong, a home, people to claim him as theirs is the most beautiful caretaker of others and it’s so special to watch him fall fully in love and be loved.
The found family Laura has created in this series is everything. I already want books 2,3,4,5,6. Or however many she gives us. Each character that is brought into this story holds purpose and moved the story along while also having you root for them to have their own story. The friend group is so fun and full of unique characters and I just can’t wait for what’s coming!
March 5, 2026
This is one of the most heartfelt and beautiful love stories I've read in a long time. Laura Kain's debut novel was so wonderfully done and I feel lucky that I had the opportunity to enjoy this book early.
Gabe and Noah are characters that will stick with me for a long time. Noah has just moved back to Willowrun to open up a gym with his best friend, Aiden. Gabe, Aiden's older brother, owns the local bookstore in town and lets Noah move in to his apartment to save some money. They all grew up together but things have changed for all of them over the last few years since Noah has been gone - most notably Gabe who is recovering from a traumatic breakup and seems like a shell of who he used to be. This gives Noah the perfect chance to reconnect with a childhood friend and to be a safe person for Gabe, showing him that he can live his life once again.
While I was rooting for sweet Gabe throughout the book to find his voice and take back his power, I think Noah Richards might be a new favorite book boyfriend. This man was so understanding and fiercely loyal, not just to Gabe but everyone in his life. He followed Gabe's lead right from the start through their friendship as it morphed into something more and it was just such a beautiful, emotional journey.
Lastly, the side characters were amazing! I felt like everyone contributed something to the story and added emotional depth to the MCs. We got just enough bread crumbs of other side stories to entice us for future books and it was so fun. I'm really excited to see where Laura Kain takes us next in Willowrun because I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!!
HUGE thank you to Laura Kain for the ARC of Shelved Hearts.
Gabe and Noah are characters that will stick with me for a long time. Noah has just moved back to Willowrun to open up a gym with his best friend, Aiden. Gabe, Aiden's older brother, owns the local bookstore in town and lets Noah move in to his apartment to save some money. They all grew up together but things have changed for all of them over the last few years since Noah has been gone - most notably Gabe who is recovering from a traumatic breakup and seems like a shell of who he used to be. This gives Noah the perfect chance to reconnect with a childhood friend and to be a safe person for Gabe, showing him that he can live his life once again.
While I was rooting for sweet Gabe throughout the book to find his voice and take back his power, I think Noah Richards might be a new favorite book boyfriend. This man was so understanding and fiercely loyal, not just to Gabe but everyone in his life. He followed Gabe's lead right from the start through their friendship as it morphed into something more and it was just such a beautiful, emotional journey.
Lastly, the side characters were amazing! I felt like everyone contributed something to the story and added emotional depth to the MCs. We got just enough bread crumbs of other side stories to entice us for future books and it was so fun. I'm really excited to see where Laura Kain takes us next in Willowrun because I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!!
HUGE thank you to Laura Kain for the ARC of Shelved Hearts.
March 9, 2026
Shelved Hearts - Laura Kain
4.5/5✨🌟
* SPOILERS *
When I saw that one of the characters was a bookstore owner along with this book having a mental health rep, I knew instantly that this book was going to be for me. Also, when I saw how big this book was, I knew this was going to be an emotional roller coaster and it certainly did not disappoint me at all.
First off, Noah is everything that Gabe seriously needed to go through his self healing. I just knew it when he threw the two packs or Oreos into the cart at the grocery store was going to make this story so beautiful because he didn’t want to get them for certain reasons. Also, he went running with Gabe just to be near him when the man doesn’t run. If that’s not love, then I really don’t know what is.
Gabe - sweet baby Gabe. I just wanted to wrap him up in bubble wrap, especially when we find out what happened to him. Also, I loved how he gave books away just to help out. I love how we get to see him go through his journey. I was so happy he was able to lean on the people that truly loved and cared about him.
I have to say one of my favorite scenes was when Gabe first laid his head on Noah’s shoulder. I was a complete goner.
I’m a sucker for found family and this book perfected it to a T because wow. From the children, to the friends and man to Aiden being the best friend and brother, I was all in with this book.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
4.5/5✨🌟
* SPOILERS *
When I saw that one of the characters was a bookstore owner along with this book having a mental health rep, I knew instantly that this book was going to be for me. Also, when I saw how big this book was, I knew this was going to be an emotional roller coaster and it certainly did not disappoint me at all.
First off, Noah is everything that Gabe seriously needed to go through his self healing. I just knew it when he threw the two packs or Oreos into the cart at the grocery store was going to make this story so beautiful because he didn’t want to get them for certain reasons. Also, he went running with Gabe just to be near him when the man doesn’t run. If that’s not love, then I really don’t know what is.
Gabe - sweet baby Gabe. I just wanted to wrap him up in bubble wrap, especially when we find out what happened to him. Also, I loved how he gave books away just to help out. I love how we get to see him go through his journey. I was so happy he was able to lean on the people that truly loved and cared about him.
I have to say one of my favorite scenes was when Gabe first laid his head on Noah’s shoulder. I was a complete goner.
I’m a sucker for found family and this book perfected it to a T because wow. From the children, to the friends and man to Aiden being the best friend and brother, I was all in with this book.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
March 5, 2026
And maybe that’s what healing really is. Not escape. Not forgetting. Just learning how to breathe with the person you love, over and over again.
.
where do i start ?
this book, this found family, these characters ( all of them ), this author .. owns me completely.
when i read the first chapter, it was a hurricane of feelings, everything is perfect inside of it. Gabe is the sweetest person ever and Noah argh Noah is the greenest flag on this earth. the healing trope is so amazing well writing, with the hard days a person can have.
this book talk about a lot of topics, and every person can relate to a character. i have no words for this book, because i could write a memoir about it and you’ll no read it. but hear me out when i said you should read it because it’s totally worth it. and i can’t believe it’s the first book of Laura.
i’m grateful to have read this masterpiece in ARC, and thank you Laura for everything, for putting words when i couldn’t put them.
I would take a thousand of your hardest days over a single one without you.
.
where do i start ?
this book, this found family, these characters ( all of them ), this author .. owns me completely.
when i read the first chapter, it was a hurricane of feelings, everything is perfect inside of it. Gabe is the sweetest person ever and Noah argh Noah is the greenest flag on this earth. the healing trope is so amazing well writing, with the hard days a person can have.
this book talk about a lot of topics, and every person can relate to a character. i have no words for this book, because i could write a memoir about it and you’ll no read it. but hear me out when i said you should read it because it’s totally worth it. and i can’t believe it’s the first book of Laura.
i’m grateful to have read this masterpiece in ARC, and thank you Laura for everything, for putting words when i couldn’t put them.
I would take a thousand of your hardest days over a single one without you.
March 6, 2026
Oh my gosh, this book is absolutely amazing. Almost 600 pages of some of the most phenomenal writing I have ever read. This book had everything, hurt/comfort, protective MC, brothers best friend, anxiety rep, demisexual rep, forced prox., the perfect found family, and an exquisite slow burn.
Gabe broke my heart, over and over throughout this book. My heart was aching as I read his story. He is a introverted bookstore owner who is learning to heal and winds up living with literal sunshine. Noah was the perfect other half to Gabe. He does treat him like he’s broken but is cautious of Gabe’s boundaries. Noah has wanted Gabe for years and jumps at the opportunity to just be near Gabe. If this was made into a movie, Id watch it on repeat.
Oh and I can’t forget to point out how much the ending killed me. It was the sweetest thing ever, I cried so much. I can’t wait to see what Ciarán gets up to in his book.
Gabe broke my heart, over and over throughout this book. My heart was aching as I read his story. He is a introverted bookstore owner who is learning to heal and winds up living with literal sunshine. Noah was the perfect other half to Gabe. He does treat him like he’s broken but is cautious of Gabe’s boundaries. Noah has wanted Gabe for years and jumps at the opportunity to just be near Gabe. If this was made into a movie, Id watch it on repeat.
Oh and I can’t forget to point out how much the ending killed me. It was the sweetest thing ever, I cried so much. I can’t wait to see what Ciarán gets up to in his book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this book quite a bit.. its a story of hurt and how you can trust and love again. it does get pretty dark in places to be aware of triggers warnings. the spice is low but there is quite a bit of pinning.
I took a star off because it just seemed too slow at times. but maybe thats more my preferences. I did like the side characters quite a bit and hope they get there own story. I will read another book if it comes out can't wait to see what the author does next.
I took a star off because it just seemed too slow at times. but maybe thats more my preferences. I did like the side characters quite a bit and hope they get there own story. I will read another book if it comes out can't wait to see what the author does next.
March 7, 2026
Love Lights the Way
Dee’s Grade: A+
This was such a beautiful complete story. She got to watch Gabe and Noah fall in love while navigating Gabe’s complex mental health struggles. It was all handled with such care and love.
My heart broke for them several times. The book doesn’t simply focus on the dark times though. There is joy and a HEA that is extremely satisfying.
I will read this series. I need Ciaran’s book ASAP.
Dee’s Grade: A+
This was such a beautiful complete story. She got to watch Gabe and Noah fall in love while navigating Gabe’s complex mental health struggles. It was all handled with such care and love.
My heart broke for them several times. The book doesn’t simply focus on the dark times though. There is joy and a HEA that is extremely satisfying.
I will read this series. I need Ciaran’s book ASAP.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oreo’s, Post-it Notes and the Perfection of "Exactly Who You Are"
📚Book = Standalone,
🔥Burn = Slow,
🎭OW/OM Drama = No,
🐺Alpha Men = swoon-worthy,
🌶️Heat/spice = 9/10,
😬Angst = Med/High,
💔Third Act Breakup = No,
🤥Cheating = No,
🌈MM/FF = Yes, MM,
🔹Writing = 1st Person, MultiPOV,
🔸Genre = Contemporary Romance,
🔹Tropes = MM✨Small town✨Bookstore owner & Gym Owner✨Brothers best friend✨Forced proximity✨Strong Mental Health Rep✨Caretaker & soft traumatised love interest✨Demisexual representation✨Trauma recovery and self-worth arc✨Protective sunshine & anxious introvert✨Found family✨HEA✨
‼️Triggers = Med - Please personally double check before reading. Your mind matters!
This is the most heartfelt, searingly emotional, and outstandingly beautiful read; I truly feel undone in the best way possible. I am astounded that an author can pack so much gut-wrenching heartbreak, visceral vulnerability, and radiant love into one book. I thought 600 pages would feel long, yet I could have read three times that. How can one story make you cry, laugh, and break your heart, only to mend you with such tender, unwavering grace? I felt my chest physically ache with every step of Gabe’s journey, and the silence after finishing it felt heavy. This story has left me with a massive "book hangover"—it will live with me rent-free for a very long time.
The pace is perfect, balancing sweet, tender moments and funny banter with high-stakes emotion. There are luminous sensual moments alongside some seriously steamy scenes as Gabe learns he is safe with Noah. The author perfectly balances the sharp, jagged edges of Gabe's trauma with the soft, steady warmth of Noah's patience. Gabe and Noah see each other on an intensely human level, even the sides they hide from the world. Their journey is one of ethereal intimacy—finding that one person who will guide you, give you space to breathe, and catch you if you stumble. They find a profoundly healing, unwavering love and a forever home in each other's arms.
I loved Gabe and Noah, but I also fell for every finely drawn side character. I can’t wait to read more of their stories—there is clearly more to tell! I need everything on Aiden, Ciarán, Abbie, and Theo.
Gabe…..oh my beautiful Gabe! He has such a gorgeous, gentle sweetest soul, badly broken and deeply bruised by an horrendously abusive ex. I wanted to hold and protect him against life so badly. He struggles to see his self worth, has panic attacks, social anxiety, and agoraphobia from his trauma, with the only place he feels safe is his book store. The only thing keeping him together is his brother, his niece and his two supportive friends, but even with these Gabe is finding it harder and harder to lift himself out of the darkness. That is until an old friend of his brothers returns back into his life and needs a place to live! But how can he let a stranger into his sanctuary, the only place he doesn’t have to put on a false front…but he knows Noah, he can do it, no he needs to do this, to prove to himself he’s not as broken or damaged as his mind says he is?
Noah is lost, he’s never felt at home anywhere, certainly not in his own home growing up. The only place he has ever felt wanted, is with his childhood friends family home, yet as soon as he’s old enough he runs from the small town he’s grow up in to escape to the noise and chaos of the big city, thinking this will be cathartic. It never was, if anything it made his loneliness feel worse, so when the opportunity arises to open a gym back in his small home town with his childhood friend, he takes the chance. With money tight he takes the offer of staying with his friend’s brother above his bookshop, the very brother Noah secretly pinned after. Yet when he walks in the door Gabe isn’t the same boy he remembers, there’s darkness and fear in his eyes and Noah wants nothing more to ensure Gabe feels safe, seen and to bring the life back into his eyes again.
The way Noah, let Gabe go at his own pace, letting him lead with every passing encounter was cathartic and beautiful. There is so, so many moments that I want to share, I would probably be sharing the whole book, however here are a very few of my very favourites….
“You don’t have to be anything but exactly who you are.”
He lets out a shuddering breath. “Even when my head’s a mess?”
“Especially then,” I say, meaning it with my whole heart. “That’s when I get to hold you.”
“You had just given me The Wayfarer’s Star as my birthday present, when I looked at you to say thanks…” He shakes his head, smiling. “It was your eyes. They looked so green in the light, I thought… wow, they’re so beautiful. Like every part of you.”
“And I love you,” I reply simply. “That’s not going to change because you have hard days. I told you before, we are worth it.” My own tears are falling now. “I would take a thousand of your hardest days over a single one without you.”
“You gave me what I’ve always craved since I was a child, what I spent all my time away from here searching for.”
“Which was?” he whispers.
I press my face into his neck. “Home. Family.”
He trembles in my hold, a small sniffle escaping him as he clutches me close, fingers tracing the tip of my compass tattoo.
“Noah,” he breathes. “You give me everything I need and more. You guided me back to myself.”
Then my eyes cut to the collage Noah made me for my birthday in November. So many pictures of us and our friends, Post-it notes, and hand-drawn Oreos. The colors are… truly hideous. It’s a monstrosity, really. And somehow, it’s the best thing anyone has ever given me.
📚Book = Standalone,
🔥Burn = Slow,
🎭OW/OM Drama = No,
🐺Alpha Men = swoon-worthy,
🌶️Heat/spice = 9/10,
😬Angst = Med/High,
💔Third Act Breakup = No,
🤥Cheating = No,
🌈MM/FF = Yes, MM,
🔹Writing = 1st Person, MultiPOV,
🔸Genre = Contemporary Romance,
🔹Tropes = MM✨Small town✨Bookstore owner & Gym Owner✨Brothers best friend✨Forced proximity✨Strong Mental Health Rep✨Caretaker & soft traumatised love interest✨Demisexual representation✨Trauma recovery and self-worth arc✨Protective sunshine & anxious introvert✨Found family✨HEA✨
‼️Triggers = Med - Please personally double check before reading. Your mind matters!
This is the most heartfelt, searingly emotional, and outstandingly beautiful read; I truly feel undone in the best way possible. I am astounded that an author can pack so much gut-wrenching heartbreak, visceral vulnerability, and radiant love into one book. I thought 600 pages would feel long, yet I could have read three times that. How can one story make you cry, laugh, and break your heart, only to mend you with such tender, unwavering grace? I felt my chest physically ache with every step of Gabe’s journey, and the silence after finishing it felt heavy. This story has left me with a massive "book hangover"—it will live with me rent-free for a very long time.
The pace is perfect, balancing sweet, tender moments and funny banter with high-stakes emotion. There are luminous sensual moments alongside some seriously steamy scenes as Gabe learns he is safe with Noah. The author perfectly balances the sharp, jagged edges of Gabe's trauma with the soft, steady warmth of Noah's patience. Gabe and Noah see each other on an intensely human level, even the sides they hide from the world. Their journey is one of ethereal intimacy—finding that one person who will guide you, give you space to breathe, and catch you if you stumble. They find a profoundly healing, unwavering love and a forever home in each other's arms.
I loved Gabe and Noah, but I also fell for every finely drawn side character. I can’t wait to read more of their stories—there is clearly more to tell! I need everything on Aiden, Ciarán, Abbie, and Theo.
Gabe…..oh my beautiful Gabe! He has such a gorgeous, gentle sweetest soul, badly broken and deeply bruised by an horrendously abusive ex. I wanted to hold and protect him against life so badly. He struggles to see his self worth, has panic attacks, social anxiety, and agoraphobia from his trauma, with the only place he feels safe is his book store. The only thing keeping him together is his brother, his niece and his two supportive friends, but even with these Gabe is finding it harder and harder to lift himself out of the darkness. That is until an old friend of his brothers returns back into his life and needs a place to live! But how can he let a stranger into his sanctuary, the only place he doesn’t have to put on a false front…but he knows Noah, he can do it, no he needs to do this, to prove to himself he’s not as broken or damaged as his mind says he is?
Noah is lost, he’s never felt at home anywhere, certainly not in his own home growing up. The only place he has ever felt wanted, is with his childhood friends family home, yet as soon as he’s old enough he runs from the small town he’s grow up in to escape to the noise and chaos of the big city, thinking this will be cathartic. It never was, if anything it made his loneliness feel worse, so when the opportunity arises to open a gym back in his small home town with his childhood friend, he takes the chance. With money tight he takes the offer of staying with his friend’s brother above his bookshop, the very brother Noah secretly pinned after. Yet when he walks in the door Gabe isn’t the same boy he remembers, there’s darkness and fear in his eyes and Noah wants nothing more to ensure Gabe feels safe, seen and to bring the life back into his eyes again.
The way Noah, let Gabe go at his own pace, letting him lead with every passing encounter was cathartic and beautiful. There is so, so many moments that I want to share, I would probably be sharing the whole book, however here are a very few of my very favourites….
“You don’t have to be anything but exactly who you are.”
He lets out a shuddering breath. “Even when my head’s a mess?”
“Especially then,” I say, meaning it with my whole heart. “That’s when I get to hold you.”
“You had just given me The Wayfarer’s Star as my birthday present, when I looked at you to say thanks…” He shakes his head, smiling. “It was your eyes. They looked so green in the light, I thought… wow, they’re so beautiful. Like every part of you.”
“And I love you,” I reply simply. “That’s not going to change because you have hard days. I told you before, we are worth it.” My own tears are falling now. “I would take a thousand of your hardest days over a single one without you.”
“You gave me what I’ve always craved since I was a child, what I spent all my time away from here searching for.”
“Which was?” he whispers.
I press my face into his neck. “Home. Family.”
He trembles in my hold, a small sniffle escaping him as he clutches me close, fingers tracing the tip of my compass tattoo.
“Noah,” he breathes. “You give me everything I need and more. You guided me back to myself.”
Then my eyes cut to the collage Noah made me for my birthday in November. So many pictures of us and our friends, Post-it notes, and hand-drawn Oreos. The colors are… truly hideous. It’s a monstrosity, really. And somehow, it’s the best thing anyone has ever given me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
"Shelved Hearts"
(Hearts of Willowrun book 1)
by Laura Kain
I start with: what an incredible debut from this author.
This MM romance follows Gabe & Noah.
It is a slow-slow-slow burn, so emotional, so tough with pain, so raw.
The pain these two souls endured before their reunion is absolutely palpable throughout the pages.
It is heartbreaking to watch them slowly, tentatively, hopefully, intimately, leave the shadows behind towards the light. One step at a time. Together.
The intimate scenes are written with such care it was beautiful to read.
A shoutout to the side characters, they are amazing and contribute so much to the development of both MMCs.
Releasing March 6, 2026
I can't wait for book 2. I know in my heart it will be Ciarán and Aiden's story and it will be beautiful.
p.s.: I feel guilty not giving 5 stars because this story deserved them, but I can't stay away from the fact that it is 600 pages. I loved the book but it shouldn't have to be near 300 pages for their first time... Again: I love the book and I love the story but, FOR ME, it was too long.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
-----
some of my favorite quotes:
The scar isn't even the worst part. The worst part is what lives under it.
The idea of Noah in my space feels like inviting fire into a room made of paper.
I wonder how I'm supposed to survive living under the same roof when I can't even survive my own head.
I feel so frayed, I'm not sure what will be left when I finally come apart.
His eyes hit like a punch to the ribs.
Now that we're in the same space, the thought of being away from him feels unbearable.
I want to be brave enough to find myself again, the me who isn't always terrified.
His laugh startles me - not because it's loud, but because I want to keep hearing it. It sinks into my chest and stays there, warming a place that usually stays cold.
Sharing a space with him feels like getting caught in his gravity - impossible to escape. I don't even want to.
The idea of never being more than this - just a roommate, just a presence in his space - burns like a slow match under my ribs.
I let myself get lost in those eyes that remind me of spring and forests, life and growth.
All I know is, holding his hand feels more intimate than anything else I've ever done.
(...) and when I kiss him again, soft and lingering, it isn't just heat. It's everything.
Hasn't he realized he's the center of my world?
"Shelved Hearts"
(Hearts of Willowrun book 1)
by Laura Kain
I start with: what an incredible debut from this author.
This MM romance follows Gabe & Noah.
It is a slow-slow-slow burn, so emotional, so tough with pain, so raw.
The pain these two souls endured before their reunion is absolutely palpable throughout the pages.
It is heartbreaking to watch them slowly, tentatively, hopefully, intimately, leave the shadows behind towards the light. One step at a time. Together.
The intimate scenes are written with such care it was beautiful to read.
A shoutout to the side characters, they are amazing and contribute so much to the development of both MMCs.
Releasing March 6, 2026
I can't wait for book 2. I know in my heart it will be Ciarán and Aiden's story and it will be beautiful.
p.s.: I feel guilty not giving 5 stars because this story deserved them, but I can't stay away from the fact that it is 600 pages. I loved the book but it shouldn't have to be near 300 pages for their first time... Again: I love the book and I love the story but, FOR ME, it was too long.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
-----
some of my favorite quotes:
The scar isn't even the worst part. The worst part is what lives under it.
The idea of Noah in my space feels like inviting fire into a room made of paper.
I wonder how I'm supposed to survive living under the same roof when I can't even survive my own head.
I feel so frayed, I'm not sure what will be left when I finally come apart.
His eyes hit like a punch to the ribs.
Now that we're in the same space, the thought of being away from him feels unbearable.
I want to be brave enough to find myself again, the me who isn't always terrified.
His laugh startles me - not because it's loud, but because I want to keep hearing it. It sinks into my chest and stays there, warming a place that usually stays cold.
Sharing a space with him feels like getting caught in his gravity - impossible to escape. I don't even want to.
The idea of never being more than this - just a roommate, just a presence in his space - burns like a slow match under my ribs.
I let myself get lost in those eyes that remind me of spring and forests, life and growth.
All I know is, holding his hand feels more intimate than anything else I've ever done.
(...) and when I kiss him again, soft and lingering, it isn't just heat. It's everything.
Hasn't he realized he's the center of my world?
Review of advance copy received from Author
🅰🆁🅲 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Shelved Hearts by Laura Kain
⚠️This was a very emotional ride that deals with a lot of heavy topics. Just a little reminder, please check the trigger warnings because this book is quite heavy especially those related to SH, DA, and SA.⚠️
"𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒉𝒊𝒎, 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒉𝒆'𝒔 𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒍𝒆. 𝑯𝒆 𝒊𝒔𝒏'𝒕. 𝑯𝒆'𝒔 𝒔𝒐 𝒇𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒉𝒆'𝒔 𝒓𝒂𝒓𝒆. 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒉𝒊𝒎."
I must say WOW! A book debut that is worth the time and worth reading! Ms. Laura Kain clearly put a great deal of care into this book beautifully written and handled heavy topics with a lot of thoughtfulness. Shelved hearts by Laura Kain is not just a romance, It's a quite, powerful testament to patience, healing, and the kind of love that chooses you gently, again and again.
This story unfolds with tenderness between two men who have both been shaped by pain and the weight of expectations. What makes this book unforgettable isn't just the romance, it's the emotional honesty. Every conversation feels real. Every hesitation carries history. Every soft moment feels earned. Their journey isn't rushed. It's layered. It's patient. And that's what makes it beautiful.
"𝑰 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒂 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖."
You watch walls slowly come down. You witness trust being built brick by fragile brick. And somewhere along the way, you realize you're not just rooting for them to fall in love, you're rooting for them to believe they deserve it. The found family element wraps around the story like a warm blanket. These side characters don’t just exist in the background, they matter. They show up. They protect. They love loudly. They remind both men (and the reader) that acceptance isn’t something you beg for, it’s something you’re worthy of. (dang, I love that)
There’s a quiet strength in this book. It doesn’t rely on dramatic chaos to make you feel something. Instead, it leans into vulnerability, into softness, into the courage it takes to open your heart after it’s been bruised too many times.
If you love stories about:
💖healing through love
💖slow-burn romance that feels real
💖chosen family that shows up without conditions
💖and two men learning that they are worthy of acceptance
Then Shelved Hearts will absolutely own a piece of yours.
This is the kind of book that doesn’t just stay on your shelf it stays with you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Shelved Hearts by Laura Kain
⚠️This was a very emotional ride that deals with a lot of heavy topics. Just a little reminder, please check the trigger warnings because this book is quite heavy especially those related to SH, DA, and SA.⚠️
"𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒉𝒊𝒎, 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒉𝒆'𝒔 𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒍𝒆. 𝑯𝒆 𝒊𝒔𝒏'𝒕. 𝑯𝒆'𝒔 𝒔𝒐 𝒇𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈. 𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒉𝒆'𝒔 𝒓𝒂𝒓𝒆. 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒅𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒉𝒊𝒎."
I must say WOW! A book debut that is worth the time and worth reading! Ms. Laura Kain clearly put a great deal of care into this book beautifully written and handled heavy topics with a lot of thoughtfulness. Shelved hearts by Laura Kain is not just a romance, It's a quite, powerful testament to patience, healing, and the kind of love that chooses you gently, again and again.
This story unfolds with tenderness between two men who have both been shaped by pain and the weight of expectations. What makes this book unforgettable isn't just the romance, it's the emotional honesty. Every conversation feels real. Every hesitation carries history. Every soft moment feels earned. Their journey isn't rushed. It's layered. It's patient. And that's what makes it beautiful.
"𝑰 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒂 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒂 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒍𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖."
You watch walls slowly come down. You witness trust being built brick by fragile brick. And somewhere along the way, you realize you're not just rooting for them to fall in love, you're rooting for them to believe they deserve it. The found family element wraps around the story like a warm blanket. These side characters don’t just exist in the background, they matter. They show up. They protect. They love loudly. They remind both men (and the reader) that acceptance isn’t something you beg for, it’s something you’re worthy of. (dang, I love that)
There’s a quiet strength in this book. It doesn’t rely on dramatic chaos to make you feel something. Instead, it leans into vulnerability, into softness, into the courage it takes to open your heart after it’s been bruised too many times.
If you love stories about:
💖healing through love
💖slow-burn romance that feels real
💖chosen family that shows up without conditions
💖and two men learning that they are worthy of acceptance
Then Shelved Hearts will absolutely own a piece of yours.
This is the kind of book that doesn’t just stay on your shelf it stays with you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
((4.5 rounded up to a 5))
The blurb caught my interest as soon as I read it, a love story about childhood friends, recovering from trauma, found family, AND it have a happy ending?? Sounds exactly like the books I'm into.
This book is.. raw, in the sense that is packed full of emotion. Gabe has been through so much, and has been shattered into pieces to the point where he doesn't even know who he is anymore. His reactions to loud noises, to touch, and being out in public, absolutely broke my heart. I just wanted to give him a hug. Thankfully though, Noah gave him a hug for me!
Noah is a golden retriever of a character, he's so incredibly kind, caring, loyal, and fiercely protective of Gabe and his mental and physical well being. Even when he was hurting seeing Gabe struggling, he listened to what the other man needed from him, and then went with it. He never took anything, he followed Gabe's lead while always offering support. He was the steady lighthouse guiding Gabe back to shore.
Their relationship was so immensely beautiful, the slow burn was delectable and done well. Their relationship occured naturally, slowly but surely they gained each other's trust, learned how to open up and rely on each other, and that was just really beautiful to witness.
The side characters were absolutely FANTASTIC!! I almost liked them better than the MC's, almost! I'm so curious about all of them and I hope that they all get their own stories eventually. Especially Ciarán, I need to know what's going on between him and Aidan..
This book is going to hit you in your feels so for that reason you should probably have some tissues near by. This book does talk about abuse, both mental and physical, as well as all the trauma that lingers from going through something like that. So, if that's something that could be harmful to you, please read with caution.
Having said that, I highly recommend this book, it's very good and I'm looking forward to seeing what this author releases next.
~~I received an early copy of this book and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.~~
The blurb caught my interest as soon as I read it, a love story about childhood friends, recovering from trauma, found family, AND it have a happy ending?? Sounds exactly like the books I'm into.
This book is.. raw, in the sense that is packed full of emotion. Gabe has been through so much, and has been shattered into pieces to the point where he doesn't even know who he is anymore. His reactions to loud noises, to touch, and being out in public, absolutely broke my heart. I just wanted to give him a hug. Thankfully though, Noah gave him a hug for me!
Noah is a golden retriever of a character, he's so incredibly kind, caring, loyal, and fiercely protective of Gabe and his mental and physical well being. Even when he was hurting seeing Gabe struggling, he listened to what the other man needed from him, and then went with it. He never took anything, he followed Gabe's lead while always offering support. He was the steady lighthouse guiding Gabe back to shore.
Their relationship was so immensely beautiful, the slow burn was delectable and done well. Their relationship occured naturally, slowly but surely they gained each other's trust, learned how to open up and rely on each other, and that was just really beautiful to witness.
The side characters were absolutely FANTASTIC!! I almost liked them better than the MC's, almost! I'm so curious about all of them and I hope that they all get their own stories eventually. Especially Ciarán, I need to know what's going on between him and Aidan..
This book is going to hit you in your feels so for that reason you should probably have some tissues near by. This book does talk about abuse, both mental and physical, as well as all the trauma that lingers from going through something like that. So, if that's something that could be harmful to you, please read with caution.
Having said that, I highly recommend this book, it's very good and I'm looking forward to seeing what this author releases next.
~~I received an early copy of this book and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.~~
March 8, 2026
Trauma handled with love and care
First off congratulations Laura you have taken the world by storm with this debut release. I admit I questioned the length of this book BUT it did not feel that long.
Some books are meant to be read and enjoyed. Others are not right for a reader. However, the true gems are the books that grab you and drag you in to experience them. I laughed. I cried. I fell in love and learned to live and breath again just like Gabe.
I knew immediately this book was going to break and reshape me. I read 70% of this book without moving.
Sweet Gabe has been broken down so much he can barely function. His ex really did a number on him. His anxiety, fear, and self loathing were apparent in everything he did (which wasn't much). I think if he hadn't lived above the bookstore he wouldn't have even done that.
Noah is the calm in a hurricane. He is steady and patient. He is so aware of how his presence affects Gabe. He has always loved Gabe but the man in front of him is so broken. He doesn't try to fix Gabe he only wants to exist with him. He handles every new situation with tenderness and love.
The whole deal with the Oreo cookies is so simple and yet speaks in giant ways. The way Noah slots himself into the small moments is seamless. The way he gives Gabe all the power and control without expectations us absolutely beautiful. Without asking or expecting anything he gives Gabe an anchor to hold onto when everything became to much.
This is a beautiful and absolutely heartbreaking romance. This is mostly the moments Before.
Before you realize you deserve better.
Before you realize you can heal.
Before you make the decisions to do better for everyone you love but mostly for yourself.
Before you see the man always meant to love you. This is also the After.
After you let someone in.
After you began to heal.
After love showed you that you were not broken beyond repair.
After Noah loved every part of you exactly as you were.
First off congratulations Laura you have taken the world by storm with this debut release. I admit I questioned the length of this book BUT it did not feel that long.
Some books are meant to be read and enjoyed. Others are not right for a reader. However, the true gems are the books that grab you and drag you in to experience them. I laughed. I cried. I fell in love and learned to live and breath again just like Gabe.
I knew immediately this book was going to break and reshape me. I read 70% of this book without moving.
Sweet Gabe has been broken down so much he can barely function. His ex really did a number on him. His anxiety, fear, and self loathing were apparent in everything he did (which wasn't much). I think if he hadn't lived above the bookstore he wouldn't have even done that.
Noah is the calm in a hurricane. He is steady and patient. He is so aware of how his presence affects Gabe. He has always loved Gabe but the man in front of him is so broken. He doesn't try to fix Gabe he only wants to exist with him. He handles every new situation with tenderness and love.
The whole deal with the Oreo cookies is so simple and yet speaks in giant ways. The way Noah slots himself into the small moments is seamless. The way he gives Gabe all the power and control without expectations us absolutely beautiful. Without asking or expecting anything he gives Gabe an anchor to hold onto when everything became to much.
This is a beautiful and absolutely heartbreaking romance. This is mostly the moments Before.
Before you realize you deserve better.
Before you realize you can heal.
Before you make the decisions to do better for everyone you love but mostly for yourself.
Before you see the man always meant to love you. This is also the After.
After you let someone in.
After you began to heal.
After love showed you that you were not broken beyond repair.
After Noah loved every part of you exactly as you were.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Shelved Hearts" by Laura Kain is a gorgeous M/M romance. It has a strong focus on mental health recovery as well as that beautiful slow build of a solid relationship.
It follows Gabe as he struggles with the aftermath of an abusive relationship. He lets his brother's friend, Noah, move into his spare room and the two of them build a beautiful friendship that slowly turns to love.
Ratings:
Overall: 5/5 hearts - There's so little for me to complain about. I loved every line of this book.
Peppers: 3/5 - There is most definitely spice in this book. But it's a long book and plot definitely takes up a big majority of it.
But that's perfect for Gabe and Noah. Their relationship isn't insta-lust, it's slow and trusting and honestly? The smut is better for it.
Spice: 5/5 - Every spice scene is great. It's emotional and real and hot as heck.
Laura honestly makes every touch shared between Gabe and Noah exhilarating. First hug? Goosebumps. First kiss? My face went hot. First time? I had to lie down.
Plot: 5/5 -
- Storyline: No notes. The storyline isn't grand and exciting. It's slow and measured, just like Gabe and Noah's relationship.
- Characters: Gabe is such a relatable character with his anxiety and PTSD. His reactions seem so realistic. Noah is his golden retriever, who isn't without his own pain. His soft, comforting way of showing Gabe his love, is probably the most beautiful thing I've ever read.
- Writing: Gorgeous. No other words needed here. The words glide together, the POV changes are done wonderfully, and there were so many beautiful lines that half of my ARC copy is highlighted.
Overall:
A gorgeous book that should be a must read for any romance lover.
Page Count: 605
Time to Read (Estimate): 10 hours
This book will be released on March 6th! Go pre order your copy TODAY
*I did receive an ARC of this book. However, this review is 100% honest and voluntary*
It follows Gabe as he struggles with the aftermath of an abusive relationship. He lets his brother's friend, Noah, move into his spare room and the two of them build a beautiful friendship that slowly turns to love.
Ratings:
Overall: 5/5 hearts - There's so little for me to complain about. I loved every line of this book.
Peppers: 3/5 - There is most definitely spice in this book. But it's a long book and plot definitely takes up a big majority of it.
But that's perfect for Gabe and Noah. Their relationship isn't insta-lust, it's slow and trusting and honestly? The smut is better for it.
Spice: 5/5 - Every spice scene is great. It's emotional and real and hot as heck.
Laura honestly makes every touch shared between Gabe and Noah exhilarating. First hug? Goosebumps. First kiss? My face went hot. First time? I had to lie down.
Plot: 5/5 -
- Storyline: No notes. The storyline isn't grand and exciting. It's slow and measured, just like Gabe and Noah's relationship.
- Characters: Gabe is such a relatable character with his anxiety and PTSD. His reactions seem so realistic. Noah is his golden retriever, who isn't without his own pain. His soft, comforting way of showing Gabe his love, is probably the most beautiful thing I've ever read.
- Writing: Gorgeous. No other words needed here. The words glide together, the POV changes are done wonderfully, and there were so many beautiful lines that half of my ARC copy is highlighted.
Overall:
A gorgeous book that should be a must read for any romance lover.
Page Count: 605
Time to Read (Estimate): 10 hours
This book will be released on March 6th! Go pre order your copy TODAY
*I did receive an ARC of this book. However, this review is 100% honest and voluntary*
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ve been sitting here staring at the little blinking cursor for way too long, and the only way I can think to start this review is:
WOW.
People like to talk about something “altering their brain chemistry,” and whoa did this book ever sweep me completely off my feet. The writing style, the MMC’s *and* lovable side characters, the emotional punches, the gorgeous tender moments, the SPICE that makes sense for the story and feels realistic and not repetitive… It was all just right.
This story follows Gabe (a soft-spoken, introverted bookstore owner who has been through a really difficult & traumatic last few years) and his younger brother Aiden’s best friend, Noah (a sunshine golden retriever & gym co-owner who is just looking for people to call his own, has a dirty mouth, and is the king of patience and consent 🙌🏼) as they both go from orbiting each other’s existences since childhood to finding the other half of their soul- all while embracing themselves and each other exactly as they are. *This book does tackle some heavy topics, so please make sure to read the trigger warnings!*
You can look forward to:
- MM romance
- dual POV
- HEA (and fought hard for!)
- mental health rep
- brother x brother’s best friend
- forced proximity
- slow burn
- found family
- small town
- spice 🌶️ (both hot & sweet, great variety, & adds to the story!)
I know it’s still early in the year, but I’m already filing this book away as one of my favorites of 2026. It is a MUST read for anyone who loves MM romance, or just beautifully written small town love stories in general. Plus, the author also has plans for future books that follow some of the other side characters, and I already know those will be fabulous as well! Congratulations on the FANTASTIC debut novel, Laura! 🫶🏻
WOW.
People like to talk about something “altering their brain chemistry,” and whoa did this book ever sweep me completely off my feet. The writing style, the MMC’s *and* lovable side characters, the emotional punches, the gorgeous tender moments, the SPICE that makes sense for the story and feels realistic and not repetitive… It was all just right.
This story follows Gabe (a soft-spoken, introverted bookstore owner who has been through a really difficult & traumatic last few years) and his younger brother Aiden’s best friend, Noah (a sunshine golden retriever & gym co-owner who is just looking for people to call his own, has a dirty mouth, and is the king of patience and consent 🙌🏼) as they both go from orbiting each other’s existences since childhood to finding the other half of their soul- all while embracing themselves and each other exactly as they are. *This book does tackle some heavy topics, so please make sure to read the trigger warnings!*
You can look forward to:
- MM romance
- dual POV
- HEA (and fought hard for!)
- mental health rep
- brother x brother’s best friend
- forced proximity
- slow burn
- found family
- small town
- spice 🌶️ (both hot & sweet, great variety, & adds to the story!)
I know it’s still early in the year, but I’m already filing this book away as one of my favorites of 2026. It is a MUST read for anyone who loves MM romance, or just beautifully written small town love stories in general. Plus, the author also has plans for future books that follow some of the other side characters, and I already know those will be fabulous as well! Congratulations on the FANTASTIC debut novel, Laura! 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy
𝚂𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚟𝚎𝚍 𝙷𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝𝚜
𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠
♾️/5 ⭐️
2.5/5 🌶️
↓↓
Oh my, I, I don't even know what to say. I just know this story will stay in my thoughts for days, weeks and months to come.
Gabe and Noah were perfection. The slow build, the little things that Noah did to show Gabe that he was safe and that despite what he thinks, there is absolutely nothing wrong with him. Noah was there and loved him so fiercely even on his toughest days, he was there.
Things were going so good for so long, I was just waiting for the other shoe to drop and when it did, I was so heartbroken but then I was so proud of Gabe and him recognizing that he needed the help. I lovedddddd watching Gabe slowly begin to heal and come out of his shell. He had SUCH an amazing support system.
The notes, the little sayings, the horrible jokes 😭 😭 I was laughing but crying at some of them. The thought process that Noah went through to write each little note to Gabe to brighten his day was just the sweetest
Gah the love and support from Abbie and Ciaran, just being there for Gabe 😭 so many times I cried when they were cuddling together, just talking and listening and just being in his orbit, just there. True ride or die besties.
I loved every single one of these characters, well minus shitty ass Kyle. I CAN NOT, yes I am absolutely yelling that, I can not wait to see what else comes from this author and more stories in this cozy little town of Willowrun.
𝚆𝙷𝙰𝚃 𝚃𝙾 𝙴𝚇𝙿𝙴𝙲𝚃
💚 Brothers best friend
💚 Forced proximity
💚 Caretaker x soft traumatised love interest
💚 Found family
💚 Slow burn
💚 Demisexual representation
💚 Trauma recovery and self-worth arc
💚 Protective sunshine x anxious introvert
💚 Bookstore owner X gym owner
𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚁𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠
♾️/5 ⭐️
2.5/5 🌶️
↓↓
Oh my, I, I don't even know what to say. I just know this story will stay in my thoughts for days, weeks and months to come.
Gabe and Noah were perfection. The slow build, the little things that Noah did to show Gabe that he was safe and that despite what he thinks, there is absolutely nothing wrong with him. Noah was there and loved him so fiercely even on his toughest days, he was there.
Things were going so good for so long, I was just waiting for the other shoe to drop and when it did, I was so heartbroken but then I was so proud of Gabe and him recognizing that he needed the help. I lovedddddd watching Gabe slowly begin to heal and come out of his shell. He had SUCH an amazing support system.
The notes, the little sayings, the horrible jokes 😭 😭 I was laughing but crying at some of them. The thought process that Noah went through to write each little note to Gabe to brighten his day was just the sweetest
Gah the love and support from Abbie and Ciaran, just being there for Gabe 😭 so many times I cried when they were cuddling together, just talking and listening and just being in his orbit, just there. True ride or die besties.
I loved every single one of these characters, well minus shitty ass Kyle. I CAN NOT, yes I am absolutely yelling that, I can not wait to see what else comes from this author and more stories in this cozy little town of Willowrun.
𝚆𝙷𝙰𝚃 𝚃𝙾 𝙴𝚇𝙿𝙴𝙲𝚃
💚 Brothers best friend
💚 Forced proximity
💚 Caretaker x soft traumatised love interest
💚 Found family
💚 Slow burn
💚 Demisexual representation
💚 Trauma recovery and self-worth arc
💚 Protective sunshine x anxious introvert
💚 Bookstore owner X gym owner
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I want to protect him-not because he's fragile. He isn't. He's so f*cking strong. But because he's rare. Precious. And I don't know how to want anything less with him."
.
.
Nothing could have prepared me for the cozy, swoony, and emotional story that is Shelved Hearts. Let me start by saying Noah and Gabe's story is chock-full of things to love.
Things I Loved:
The Theme of Discovering Self-Worth: This is a case where I found a slow burn to be necessary. Gabe has to learn to trust and feel safe again. He has to navigate a myriad of emotions because of his past relationships. Also, with Gabe being demi, the development of friendship and emotional connection is important to the story as well. Through Noah's patience, a supportive friend group, and professional help, Gabe slowly embraces his self-worth and begins to live life again.
Swoon Worthy Moments: Shelved Hearts is in no short supply of moments that have you kicking your feet and rooting for Gabe and Noah's relationship. From slow dancing in the kitchen to punny sticky notes, and a mutual love of Oreos, it's these sweet moments that make this story all the more sweet.
Worth the Wait: Shelved Hearts is a slow burn. As aforementioned, it's incredibly necessary for Gabe's individual journey. What I loved was how Noah continually stated that Gabe was worth the wait, and his comfort level was the more important thing. Simply put, Noah is a consent king, and it makes him all the more attractive. As you watch their love evolve and develop, the slow burn is 100% worth the wait. Not to mention, once heat comes into play its red hot.
Overall, I give Sheltered Hearts a 4.25. Filled with highs and a tear-jerker, it was an enjoyable read. I eagerly look forward to more books from Laura Kain, including Aiden and Ciarán story.
.
.
Nothing could have prepared me for the cozy, swoony, and emotional story that is Shelved Hearts. Let me start by saying Noah and Gabe's story is chock-full of things to love.
Things I Loved:
The Theme of Discovering Self-Worth: This is a case where I found a slow burn to be necessary. Gabe has to learn to trust and feel safe again. He has to navigate a myriad of emotions because of his past relationships. Also, with Gabe being demi, the development of friendship and emotional connection is important to the story as well. Through Noah's patience, a supportive friend group, and professional help, Gabe slowly embraces his self-worth and begins to live life again.
Swoon Worthy Moments: Shelved Hearts is in no short supply of moments that have you kicking your feet and rooting for Gabe and Noah's relationship. From slow dancing in the kitchen to punny sticky notes, and a mutual love of Oreos, it's these sweet moments that make this story all the more sweet.
Worth the Wait: Shelved Hearts is a slow burn. As aforementioned, it's incredibly necessary for Gabe's individual journey. What I loved was how Noah continually stated that Gabe was worth the wait, and his comfort level was the more important thing. Simply put, Noah is a consent king, and it makes him all the more attractive. As you watch their love evolve and develop, the slow burn is 100% worth the wait. Not to mention, once heat comes into play its red hot.
Overall, I give Sheltered Hearts a 4.25. Filled with highs and a tear-jerker, it was an enjoyable read. I eagerly look forward to more books from Laura Kain, including Aiden and Ciarán story.
March 7, 2026
I don’t have words for how beautiful this story is. It’s hard to believe this is a debut novel because this story is too perfect. It’s breathtaking, soul crushing, healing, soft, beautiful, hopeful, brutal.. all at the same time.
The trauma that Gabe lived with was handled with such care and him learning to take his power back didn’t feel rushed at all. This is a long book but Gabe and Noah needed every page.
Gabe and Noah were written in the stars. If ever a couple was absolutely meant to be together, Gabe and Noah were that couple. The way they both saw each other.. saw what the other didn’t speak into existence and then held space for it.. goodness, I don’t have words. The intimacy between these two was so special. While yes, it was sexually charged, it was also emotionally charged and it was about taking back self worth and feeling comfortable again. There was no rushing, no pressure.. it was just pure love.
Noah and Gabe’s friendship group is the kind of group everybody wishes they had. Their friends were anchors.. never wavering and never leaving, holding on tight and reminding both of them to let loose and have fun again, especially for Gabe. I can’t wait to see more of them because I know their stories will be just as beautiful.
Simply put? This book is everything you want.
This book has some really heavy topics and while handled with care, definitely check trigger warnings before reading.
What you’re getting: small town | found family | best friend’s brother | forced proximity | trauma recovery | mental health rep | slow burn | anxious x protective | HEA | spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
The trauma that Gabe lived with was handled with such care and him learning to take his power back didn’t feel rushed at all. This is a long book but Gabe and Noah needed every page.
Gabe and Noah were written in the stars. If ever a couple was absolutely meant to be together, Gabe and Noah were that couple. The way they both saw each other.. saw what the other didn’t speak into existence and then held space for it.. goodness, I don’t have words. The intimacy between these two was so special. While yes, it was sexually charged, it was also emotionally charged and it was about taking back self worth and feeling comfortable again. There was no rushing, no pressure.. it was just pure love.
Noah and Gabe’s friendship group is the kind of group everybody wishes they had. Their friends were anchors.. never wavering and never leaving, holding on tight and reminding both of them to let loose and have fun again, especially for Gabe. I can’t wait to see more of them because I know their stories will be just as beautiful.
Simply put? This book is everything you want.
This book has some really heavy topics and while handled with care, definitely check trigger warnings before reading.
What you’re getting: small town | found family | best friend’s brother | forced proximity | trauma recovery | mental health rep | slow burn | anxious x protective | HEA | spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
When I say that I loved this book, I mean it with my whole heart. It was beautifully written, and so sweet. I was laughing, I cried, and I felt for these characters so deeply.
My sweet, sweet Gabe, I adore him. As someone who struggles with some of the same things he does (anxiety, depression, the startling at loud noises due to trauma), I could relate to him in so many ways. He was a gentle soul who just needed someone to help him realize that he was worth it, and he did deserve happiness. I loved his growth as a character, and I loved getting to see him overcome so many of his anxieties. I also really, really loved that his healing journey wasn’t linear. He didn’t just automatically get “fixed” just because Noah came along, he really had to work for it. I think that’s such an important thing to learn, that a person can’t completely heal, but you have to be willing to heal yourself.
Noah Richards, the man that you are. My 80’s obsessed, soft hearted sweetheart, I love him. He was so gentle with Gabe. Never pushed him, never wavered in his love. He let Gabe set the pace he was comfortable with and never pushed for more. He was always there when Gabe needed him, never gave up on him, and never made Gabe feel like he was “broken”. He was sunshine, and light and everything good.
The relationship between Gabe and Noah was beautiful. They made each other better without trying to change each other. I loved that Noah never pushed Gabe for more, and really let him set the pace. Watching their friendship blossom into something more was absolutely so rewarding. You can feel the pain and heartache in this book, but it’s all worth it in the end.
Lastly, the found family in this book is top tier. I LOVED all the friendships between the characters. Aiden and Noah’s friendship was precious, as were Gabe’s relationships with his friends. This book isn’t even out yet and I’m already excited for the next one. 😂🥹
It was a stunning debut, and I feel like so many people will be able to relate in some way. Thank you to Laura Kain for giving us Gabe & Noah. ❤️
Also, thank you to Laura Kain for the ARC. ❤️
My sweet, sweet Gabe, I adore him. As someone who struggles with some of the same things he does (anxiety, depression, the startling at loud noises due to trauma), I could relate to him in so many ways. He was a gentle soul who just needed someone to help him realize that he was worth it, and he did deserve happiness. I loved his growth as a character, and I loved getting to see him overcome so many of his anxieties. I also really, really loved that his healing journey wasn’t linear. He didn’t just automatically get “fixed” just because Noah came along, he really had to work for it. I think that’s such an important thing to learn, that a person can’t completely heal, but you have to be willing to heal yourself.
Noah Richards, the man that you are. My 80’s obsessed, soft hearted sweetheart, I love him. He was so gentle with Gabe. Never pushed him, never wavered in his love. He let Gabe set the pace he was comfortable with and never pushed for more. He was always there when Gabe needed him, never gave up on him, and never made Gabe feel like he was “broken”. He was sunshine, and light and everything good.
The relationship between Gabe and Noah was beautiful. They made each other better without trying to change each other. I loved that Noah never pushed Gabe for more, and really let him set the pace. Watching their friendship blossom into something more was absolutely so rewarding. You can feel the pain and heartache in this book, but it’s all worth it in the end.
Lastly, the found family in this book is top tier. I LOVED all the friendships between the characters. Aiden and Noah’s friendship was precious, as were Gabe’s relationships with his friends. This book isn’t even out yet and I’m already excited for the next one. 😂🥹
It was a stunning debut, and I feel like so many people will be able to relate in some way. Thank you to Laura Kain for giving us Gabe & Noah. ❤️
Also, thank you to Laura Kain for the ARC. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, I’d like to thank Laura Kain for the gifted eARC copy in exchange for my honest and spoiler free review!
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Thoughts:
Gabe Shaw and Noah Richard’s… these two men have stole my hearts in the best way possible. Everything about their story was the epitome of tender love and healing that felt so raw and real that had me in my feels the entire time I was reading.
Gabe, is a quiet bookstore owner still recovering from an abusive relationship and Noah is Gabe’s brothers best friend who ends up becoming Gabe’s roommate. From the very beginning we get sweet little memories of the two of them that they had while growing up. Seeing them talk about their younger years and catching up together on who they were now set the tone for the safety that Gabe would soon find in Noah. I loved seeing Noah pick up on all the little signs and details about Gabe and made sure to always respect his limits but also listened and helped him in any way that he could. Noah was quite literally the one who challenged Gabe to grow comfortable in his own skin and started to help him rebuild the confidence that he needed.
The entire book was such a beautiful healing story that swept me off my feet and I honestly want to read more from this author whenever more books are released. There is something so special about MM romance that really pulls me in as a reader and I feel like Gabe and Noah’s story is a very special one that the world needs. I think many readers will find a lot of comfort in this book and I cannot wait to see this book out in the world.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Thoughts:
Gabe Shaw and Noah Richard’s… these two men have stole my hearts in the best way possible. Everything about their story was the epitome of tender love and healing that felt so raw and real that had me in my feels the entire time I was reading.
Gabe, is a quiet bookstore owner still recovering from an abusive relationship and Noah is Gabe’s brothers best friend who ends up becoming Gabe’s roommate. From the very beginning we get sweet little memories of the two of them that they had while growing up. Seeing them talk about their younger years and catching up together on who they were now set the tone for the safety that Gabe would soon find in Noah. I loved seeing Noah pick up on all the little signs and details about Gabe and made sure to always respect his limits but also listened and helped him in any way that he could. Noah was quite literally the one who challenged Gabe to grow comfortable in his own skin and started to help him rebuild the confidence that he needed.
The entire book was such a beautiful healing story that swept me off my feet and I honestly want to read more from this author whenever more books are released. There is something so special about MM romance that really pulls me in as a reader and I feel like Gabe and Noah’s story is a very special one that the world needs. I think many readers will find a lot of comfort in this book and I cannot wait to see this book out in the world.
Review of advance copy
This was @laurakainauthor debut book.
And wow… what. a. beautiful. story.💖
Don’t let the 600 pages scare you off, every single word, every single page pulls you deeper into this heartfelt journey.
We meet Gabe: insecure, a shadow of who he used to be after an abusive ex shattered his confidence and sense of self-worth. Once vibrant, now withdrawn, he runs his little bookstore quietly, carrying the weight of everything he’s been through.
Then there’s Noah, who returns to his hometown to open a gym with his best friend (who also happens to be Gabe’s brother. )
Noah has secretly been in love with Gabe for years. And when he needs a place to stay… and Gabe happens to have a spare room…🤭
What follows is something truly special.🩷
Noah gently shows Gabe that trust takes time. That not everyone is cruel. That it’s okay to have bad days and okay to embrace the good ones too. That choosing yourself matters. And that patience, real patience, is rewarded.
Noah is the ultimate walking green flag. The way he treats Gabe, the way he builds their bond with care, respect, and quiet devotion it’s impossible not to melt over these two. 🖤
It’s a slow burn romance, but don’t worry, there’s definitely spice along the way. 🥵 and oh my! It’s good!!
An absolutely stunning debut, and I already can’t wait for book two.🤩🤩
Sassy, bratty, slightly unhinged Ciarán ,Gabe’s fiercely loyal best friend and the absolute pain in Aiden’s @ss . And let’s just say… that’s a book to look forward to.🤭🤭
Laura, if you write it, I’ll read it.
You’ve got yourself a fan!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Noah and Gabe’s story is a beautiful tale of love, trust, and support. Set in the small town of Willowrun, we get to visit Gabe’s charming bookstore, cheer on Noah and Aiden as they open their gym, meet an intriguing tattoo artist, and enjoy brunches with Gabe’s best friends, Ciarán and Abbie. The book perfectly captures the power of friendship and how the right people give us strength when we start doubting ourselves.
Gabe’s trauma deeply affects his daily life and self-image, his perspective can be heavy and truly heartbreaking to read. It’s like Noah returned to Gabe’s life at the perfect moment, offering him support while giving him the space to process everything at his own pace. Noah is Gabe’s 'constant'—loyal, patient, and tender. He’s the ultimate green flag hero we’d all love to meet in real life. But Noah has his own struggles too, which makes him feel so much more human and relatable.
The story is incredibly engaging and moving, though the pacing felt a bit too slow at times. Even though I knew it was a slow burn, there were moments that dragged enough to feel a little tedious.
Overall, it’s a beautiful story. Both Gabe and Noah truly deserved their happy ending. Reading about their tender, touching moments left a warmth in my heart that returns every time I think back to their journey.
I received an advance copy from the author, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gabe’s trauma deeply affects his daily life and self-image, his perspective can be heavy and truly heartbreaking to read. It’s like Noah returned to Gabe’s life at the perfect moment, offering him support while giving him the space to process everything at his own pace. Noah is Gabe’s 'constant'—loyal, patient, and tender. He’s the ultimate green flag hero we’d all love to meet in real life. But Noah has his own struggles too, which makes him feel so much more human and relatable.
The story is incredibly engaging and moving, though the pacing felt a bit too slow at times. Even though I knew it was a slow burn, there were moments that dragged enough to feel a little tedious.
Overall, it’s a beautiful story. Both Gabe and Noah truly deserved their happy ending. Reading about their tender, touching moments left a warmth in my heart that returns every time I think back to their journey.
I received an advance copy from the author, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
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