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Roots
Trauma after trauma has knocked Fran Lambert until she no longer recognises herself. Desperate for a fresh start, she’s finished her degree and returns home to make her life her own. That is, until she starts a new job at the family real estate agency and bumps into her childhood best friend… Ex-best friend.
For the last six years, Gabe Johnson has been working himself to the bone, just to avoid feelings he’d rather not feel, forget people he’d rather not forget, and regret that one night that changed his life for good. But working at the same family business as the girl who wants to forget him? It’s the second chance he never thought he’d have.
When they’re forced together on a project to promote the agency’s new interior design service, Gabe fights back against his past and grabs the opportunity to make things right.
But Fran has secrets, ones she’s too scared to reveal, even to those closest to her. When Gabe’s promises and bright blue eyes worm their way into her heart, she’s forced to find the courage to face her fears head-on.
With a second chance at their fingertips, will Gabe be able to regain Fran’s trust and bring her back to her roots, or will the fear of more heartache lose her a final chance at happiness?
Roots is an open-door, second-chance, contemporary romance with content suitable for readers aged 18+. Please read the content warnings for a list of the triggers; your mental health matters too.
For the last six years, Gabe Johnson has been working himself to the bone, just to avoid feelings he’d rather not feel, forget people he’d rather not forget, and regret that one night that changed his life for good. But working at the same family business as the girl who wants to forget him? It’s the second chance he never thought he’d have.
When they’re forced together on a project to promote the agency’s new interior design service, Gabe fights back against his past and grabs the opportunity to make things right.
But Fran has secrets, ones she’s too scared to reveal, even to those closest to her. When Gabe’s promises and bright blue eyes worm their way into her heart, she’s forced to find the courage to face her fears head-on.
With a second chance at their fingertips, will Gabe be able to regain Fran’s trust and bring her back to her roots, or will the fear of more heartache lose her a final chance at happiness?
Roots is an open-door, second-chance, contemporary romance with content suitable for readers aged 18+. Please read the content warnings for a list of the triggers; your mental health matters too.
472 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 25, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
April 28, 2026
This book had me so emotional and omg the amount of times i wanted things to better for both mcs ! This book was amazing
May 25, 2026
This is the second book in the Love on the Thyne series, and I’m so glad I read book one, Haven, first after finding out it was about Fran’s dad. Jack Lambert is the definition of a lovable green flag, and it gave so much depth to Fran’s backstory going into this book.
But let me talk about the characters here for a second…
Gabriel “Gee” Johnson is completely jaded by life, stuck working in the family business while desperately trying to earn his father’s approval. Meanwhile, he’s been secretly yearning for Fran for SIX years. And Fran? She absolutely broke my heart. She’s carrying grief, trauma, anxiety, and both physical and emotional scars while convincing everyone around her that she’s “fine.”
What I loved most is that their romance never magically fixes them. Their relationship is layered with history, hurt, shame, mistrust, and everything left unsaid, and every interaction between them feels heavy with emotion.
The workplace romance aspect works so well because it forces them together long before they’re emotionally ready, and the tension lives in all the little moments:
- Him remembering her chai latte order
- Her instinctively protecting him
- Him loving every version of her, not just who she used to be
Gabriel is another sexy, lovable green flag.
“I don’t need the old girl. I need you, whatever version of you exists right now.”
SWOON.
The emotional vulnerability in this book hit even harder for me than the plot drama itself. I was completely invested whenever the story focused on Fran’s healing, Gabe’s guilt, and the quiet intimacy growing between them.
This book was soft, angsty, intimate, and painfully romantic in a way that lingers long after the final page.
READ IF YOU LIKE THESE TROPES:
🤍 Childhood friends to lovers
🤍 Workplace romance
🤍 Emotionally damaged MMCs
🤍 Scar representation & healing
🤍 Protective FMCs
🤍 Yearning & pining
🤍 “I loved you the entire time” energy
🤍 Quiet emotional intimacy
But let me talk about the characters here for a second…
Gabriel “Gee” Johnson is completely jaded by life, stuck working in the family business while desperately trying to earn his father’s approval. Meanwhile, he’s been secretly yearning for Fran for SIX years. And Fran? She absolutely broke my heart. She’s carrying grief, trauma, anxiety, and both physical and emotional scars while convincing everyone around her that she’s “fine.”
What I loved most is that their romance never magically fixes them. Their relationship is layered with history, hurt, shame, mistrust, and everything left unsaid, and every interaction between them feels heavy with emotion.
The workplace romance aspect works so well because it forces them together long before they’re emotionally ready, and the tension lives in all the little moments:
- Him remembering her chai latte order
- Her instinctively protecting him
- Him loving every version of her, not just who she used to be
Gabriel is another sexy, lovable green flag.
“I don’t need the old girl. I need you, whatever version of you exists right now.”
SWOON.
The emotional vulnerability in this book hit even harder for me than the plot drama itself. I was completely invested whenever the story focused on Fran’s healing, Gabe’s guilt, and the quiet intimacy growing between them.
This book was soft, angsty, intimate, and painfully romantic in a way that lingers long after the final page.
READ IF YOU LIKE THESE TROPES:
🤍 Childhood friends to lovers
🤍 Workplace romance
🤍 Emotionally damaged MMCs
🤍 Scar representation & healing
🤍 Protective FMCs
🤍 Yearning & pining
🤍 “I loved you the entire time” energy
🤍 Quiet emotional intimacy
May 26, 2026
Wren Willoughby
🌶🌶🌶
Let's start with the spicy stuff! To set the tone, the relationship between the FMC Francesca and the MMC Gabe, both in their mid-twenties, is romantic, sexy, and tender. It's a second chance romance, that brought back so much youthful nostalgia for me, especially the sex. Francesca, is a virgin and she is experiencing sex for the first time, with a man who she has known he whole life and truly adores her. Gabe is relearning love and sex, as he has spent his life using sex as a quick fix for loneliness, so with no attachment. The sex between between Gabe and Francesca is passionate, playful, and there is also an innocence, as they are learning about each other's bodies. Honestly, Wren has written such a beautiful love story.
I adored Willoughby's debut novel 'Haven', so I was nervous diving into her second book in the series 'Roots', as a well received debut can be tough act to follow. However, I was not disappointed. Roots had me laughing, crying, and yearning. Wren's writing has depth and vibrancy, bringing her characters to life and immersing the reader into the world she has created. I'm looking forward to reading more from Wren.💜
🌶🌶🌶
Let's start with the spicy stuff! To set the tone, the relationship between the FMC Francesca and the MMC Gabe, both in their mid-twenties, is romantic, sexy, and tender. It's a second chance romance, that brought back so much youthful nostalgia for me, especially the sex. Francesca, is a virgin and she is experiencing sex for the first time, with a man who she has known he whole life and truly adores her. Gabe is relearning love and sex, as he has spent his life using sex as a quick fix for loneliness, so with no attachment. The sex between between Gabe and Francesca is passionate, playful, and there is also an innocence, as they are learning about each other's bodies. Honestly, Wren has written such a beautiful love story.
I adored Willoughby's debut novel 'Haven', so I was nervous diving into her second book in the series 'Roots', as a well received debut can be tough act to follow. However, I was not disappointed. Roots had me laughing, crying, and yearning. Wren's writing has depth and vibrancy, bringing her characters to life and immersing the reader into the world she has created. I'm looking forward to reading more from Wren.💜
May 1, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I was lucky enough to receive the opportunity to read the ARC for this book.
Ex best friends to lovers. Gabe and Fran their backstory and character development was beautiful to read.
Frans backstory and everything she had been through was so upsetting but the way in which Wren has written this story, pinpointing so many topics and highlighting how people deal with trauma was really well done. Showing how no journey is the same but there is light at the end of the tunnel and it does not matter how long it takes for you to get there.
And Gabe, the hand he was dealt and what he has also been through shows true character development, understanding an support for Fran whilst also going through his own battles.
The trust they both redevelop throughout to how this story ends is one I will never forget reading. I think this is a great reminder that there are people you can reach out to and talk about things if you ever feel like you are alone.
Wren, thank you for trusting me to read an Arc of this beautiful story and I can’t wait to see what else you do.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I was lucky enough to receive the opportunity to read the ARC for this book.
Ex best friends to lovers. Gabe and Fran their backstory and character development was beautiful to read.
Frans backstory and everything she had been through was so upsetting but the way in which Wren has written this story, pinpointing so many topics and highlighting how people deal with trauma was really well done. Showing how no journey is the same but there is light at the end of the tunnel and it does not matter how long it takes for you to get there.
And Gabe, the hand he was dealt and what he has also been through shows true character development, understanding an support for Fran whilst also going through his own battles.
The trust they both redevelop throughout to how this story ends is one I will never forget reading. I think this is a great reminder that there are people you can reach out to and talk about things if you ever feel like you are alone.
Wren, thank you for trusting me to read an Arc of this beautiful story and I can’t wait to see what else you do.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2026
Such a sweet second chance love story!!!! I absolutely loved Fran and Gabe!!! This is definitely a must read!!! I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next in this series!!!
April 5, 2026
BETA REVIEW:
Absolutely incredible and completely obsessed with this story. I’ve never felt so seen and heard through two characters dealing with far more than they should. This story was a beautiful depiction of healing from trauma while dealing with so so much and finding love in the process. I can’t recommend Roots enough. If you’re searching for a read that’ll make you feel every emotion under the sun, this is the one for you.
Absolutely incredible and completely obsessed with this story. I’ve never felt so seen and heard through two characters dealing with far more than they should. This story was a beautiful depiction of healing from trauma while dealing with so so much and finding love in the process. I can’t recommend Roots enough. If you’re searching for a read that’ll make you feel every emotion under the sun, this is the one for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 Stars✨
3 Spices🌶️
Wren has done it again!
I'm an avid fan of second-chance tropes involving childhood sweethearts, and this latest installment has moments that are both tender and intense, hitting like a gut punch. It's heartbreaking but beautiful.
Filled with warmth, courage, and emotional depth, Roots is a reminder that love is not just about time, but it's also about depth, empathy, choosing connection over avoidance, and finding beauty in life’s imperfections.
Roots is the second book in the Love on the Tyne series, which delves into the themes of trauma, love, family, and self-worth. The story follows the reconciliation of childhood sweethearts Fran Lambert and Gabriel Johnson, as they embark on a journey filled with discoveries, second chances, and healing.
Wren has written a story that invites you to explore human relationships, emotional growth, and the magic of everlasting love.
Fran grounds the story with layered vulnerability. We've met her in the previous book and have seen her undergo a traumatic experience. In this book, we witness her path to find the motivation and courage to heal from it that has been holding her back.
Gee, on the other hand, lends warmth, quiet strength, charm, and encourages Fran to look at life from a different perspective, helping her tear down the walls and realize the amount of love and support from the people whom she has been pushing out. He, too, has his own baggage, notably struggling for validation and affection from his father. But Fran is backing him up and has inspired him to take control of his life, his desires, instead of sacrificing his own happiness to follow his father's wishes.
Fran and Gee have a chemistry that makes you crave them and be obsessed, and the build-up of their relationship has been well-written, making it more relatable and authentic.
In summary, Roots is a memorable novel for its poignant, introspective moments and thought-provoking exploration of finding one's authenticity, confronting past trauma, and rebuilding broken connections. It's also a reminder that people don't just fall in love. Instead, they grow in it.
Receiving a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was an honour, and I'm presenting my candid opinion based on my own experience. I am eternally grateful to Wren Willoughby and Naughty Nook PR for entrusting me with reading this book beforehand.
3 Spices🌶️
Wren has done it again!
I'm an avid fan of second-chance tropes involving childhood sweethearts, and this latest installment has moments that are both tender and intense, hitting like a gut punch. It's heartbreaking but beautiful.
Filled with warmth, courage, and emotional depth, Roots is a reminder that love is not just about time, but it's also about depth, empathy, choosing connection over avoidance, and finding beauty in life’s imperfections.
Roots is the second book in the Love on the Tyne series, which delves into the themes of trauma, love, family, and self-worth. The story follows the reconciliation of childhood sweethearts Fran Lambert and Gabriel Johnson, as they embark on a journey filled with discoveries, second chances, and healing.
Wren has written a story that invites you to explore human relationships, emotional growth, and the magic of everlasting love.
Fran grounds the story with layered vulnerability. We've met her in the previous book and have seen her undergo a traumatic experience. In this book, we witness her path to find the motivation and courage to heal from it that has been holding her back.
Gee, on the other hand, lends warmth, quiet strength, charm, and encourages Fran to look at life from a different perspective, helping her tear down the walls and realize the amount of love and support from the people whom she has been pushing out. He, too, has his own baggage, notably struggling for validation and affection from his father. But Fran is backing him up and has inspired him to take control of his life, his desires, instead of sacrificing his own happiness to follow his father's wishes.
Fran and Gee have a chemistry that makes you crave them and be obsessed, and the build-up of their relationship has been well-written, making it more relatable and authentic.
In summary, Roots is a memorable novel for its poignant, introspective moments and thought-provoking exploration of finding one's authenticity, confronting past trauma, and rebuilding broken connections. It's also a reminder that people don't just fall in love. Instead, they grow in it.
Receiving a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was an honour, and I'm presenting my candid opinion based on my own experience. I am eternally grateful to Wren Willoughby and Naughty Nook PR for entrusting me with reading this book beforehand.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I recieved an advanced readers copy and this is my honest review.
Roots is book 2 of A Love on the Tyne series. This book follows Frannie, Jack’s daughter from book 1, Haven.
Frannie being a recent graduate goes to work at her dad’s business only to find out her ex best friend is working there too. There are a lot of unresolved feelings and miscommunication that led to their broken friendship. They are grouped together to work on an assignment, and forced to get it together to succeed. Feelings arise and secrets unfold. This is a heavy read but worth it!
This book has so many different elements and themes. We have a father daughter relationship. We have Frannie living and still dealing with the death of her mother. Also the loss of a friendship years ago and still hurt from it. Frannie also dealing with a recent traumatic event. Our girl Frannie has went through so much and she was dealing with it all quietly by herself never wanting to be a burden to anyone.
Also losing a best friend was such a painful event that she went through. Gabe was everything to her! Frannie went through so much! It is so hard to ask for help. In some ways it’s easier to do it on your own, until you realize you can’t. You see how deeply broken she is and how the pain of so many things led to how she lives her life.
Gabe also had issues of his own. From being the baby of the family that was unplanned, to having an unhealthy relationship with sex, and having an overbearing dad. Wren put both of these characters through the wringer!
This book had a lot more spice than the first and I am not complaining. I was invested in both of their happiness and so happy to see the journey and healing they both went through. There were also a little more that was unearthed with the side characters and I loved learning more about them!
It was an emotional, raw, and sweet read!
Roots is book 2 of A Love on the Tyne series. This book follows Frannie, Jack’s daughter from book 1, Haven.
Frannie being a recent graduate goes to work at her dad’s business only to find out her ex best friend is working there too. There are a lot of unresolved feelings and miscommunication that led to their broken friendship. They are grouped together to work on an assignment, and forced to get it together to succeed. Feelings arise and secrets unfold. This is a heavy read but worth it!
This book has so many different elements and themes. We have a father daughter relationship. We have Frannie living and still dealing with the death of her mother. Also the loss of a friendship years ago and still hurt from it. Frannie also dealing with a recent traumatic event. Our girl Frannie has went through so much and she was dealing with it all quietly by herself never wanting to be a burden to anyone.
Also losing a best friend was such a painful event that she went through. Gabe was everything to her! Frannie went through so much! It is so hard to ask for help. In some ways it’s easier to do it on your own, until you realize you can’t. You see how deeply broken she is and how the pain of so many things led to how she lives her life.
Gabe also had issues of his own. From being the baby of the family that was unplanned, to having an unhealthy relationship with sex, and having an overbearing dad. Wren put both of these characters through the wringer!
This book had a lot more spice than the first and I am not complaining. I was invested in both of their happiness and so happy to see the journey and healing they both went through. There were also a little more that was unearthed with the side characters and I loved learning more about them!
It was an emotional, raw, and sweet read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wren Willoughby absolutely stole my heart with Roots. This book felt so raw, emotional, and deeply personal in the best possible way. Fran and Gabe’s story was packed with so much heartache, healing, and hope that I found myself completely invested in every single moment between them.
Fran’s journey hit me hard. Watching her try to piece herself back together after everything she has been through felt incredibly real and honest. Wren did such an amazing job showing the weight of trauma while also reminding readers that healing is possible, even when it feels impossible. Gabe was everything I wanted in a second chance romance hero. Patient, caring, loyal, and willing to fight for the woman he never truly stopped loving. The chemistry between these two was emotional and intense from the very beginning, and every interaction between them had me rooting for them harder and harder.
What I loved most about this story was how beautifully layered it was. It was not just romance. It was about forgiveness, growth, finding yourself again, and learning that home is sometimes found in the people who never stopped loving you. The emotional depth in this book completely pulled me in and never let me go.
Wren Willoughby created such a beautiful and heartfelt story that stayed with me long after I finished the last page. If you love emotional second chance romances with incredible character growth, tension, healing, and all the feels, you absolutely need to pick this one up.
Easy 5 stars from me.
Fran’s journey hit me hard. Watching her try to piece herself back together after everything she has been through felt incredibly real and honest. Wren did such an amazing job showing the weight of trauma while also reminding readers that healing is possible, even when it feels impossible. Gabe was everything I wanted in a second chance romance hero. Patient, caring, loyal, and willing to fight for the woman he never truly stopped loving. The chemistry between these two was emotional and intense from the very beginning, and every interaction between them had me rooting for them harder and harder.
What I loved most about this story was how beautifully layered it was. It was not just romance. It was about forgiveness, growth, finding yourself again, and learning that home is sometimes found in the people who never stopped loving you. The emotional depth in this book completely pulled me in and never let me go.
Wren Willoughby created such a beautiful and heartfelt story that stayed with me long after I finished the last page. If you love emotional second chance romances with incredible character growth, tension, healing, and all the feels, you absolutely need to pick this one up.
Easy 5 stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Roots by Wren Willoughby is Book 2 of the Love on the Thyne Series. This is a Childhood Friends to Lovers, Workplace, Contemporary Romance following Francesca Lambert and Gabriel Johnson. 🚩This is for readers 18 years and/or older as it has mature content and not suitable for underage readers. There are dark themes that can be triggering so please check out the content warning before you dive in 🚩
My thoughts 💭
I am not sure what I was expecting but I did not expect it to be this good; this is beautiful and heavy and gloriously sweet. The years that was spent wasted is heartbreaking but the outcome is so hard fought for and deserved. These two were made for each other from the minute they were born, their friendship is beautiful, the love they have for each other is something strong and precious, they can count on each other no matter what. The trauma they both experience made me sad but they help heal each other in ways neither expected, Wren Willoughby writes heavy themes so beautifully and respectfully. You can tell she works hard at framing words in a way that the reader captures everything being said while still appreciating the heaviness it brings. I thought I loved Haven, book 1, but this one…it is just…wow. You have to read it, read book 1 if you haven’t. There are heavy and dark themes so read the content warning. This is a 5 star read, hands down, I cannot wait for what comes next from Wren Willoughby.
✨I would like to thank Author Wren Willoughby and Naughty Nook PR for the opportunity to read and review Roots.
My thoughts 💭
I am not sure what I was expecting but I did not expect it to be this good; this is beautiful and heavy and gloriously sweet. The years that was spent wasted is heartbreaking but the outcome is so hard fought for and deserved. These two were made for each other from the minute they were born, their friendship is beautiful, the love they have for each other is something strong and precious, they can count on each other no matter what. The trauma they both experience made me sad but they help heal each other in ways neither expected, Wren Willoughby writes heavy themes so beautifully and respectfully. You can tell she works hard at framing words in a way that the reader captures everything being said while still appreciating the heaviness it brings. I thought I loved Haven, book 1, but this one…it is just…wow. You have to read it, read book 1 if you haven’t. There are heavy and dark themes so read the content warning. This is a 5 star read, hands down, I cannot wait for what comes next from Wren Willoughby.
✨I would like to thank Author Wren Willoughby and Naughty Nook PR for the opportunity to read and review Roots.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I saw blurbs and instagram posts here and there about this book, and thought it sounded cute - so I submitted for an ARC, and I had no idea the story I was getting myself into. This is the first book I've read by Wren, but it certainly won't be the last.
Fran and Gabe's relationship is so heartbreaking and sweet and sexy and completely theirs. The moment we meet the two characters (okay maybe not the MOMENT we meet Gabe, iykyk) I fell in love.
Fran has been through so much in her short life and she's just surving, not actually living her life. The shadows of her past loom over her and threaten to consume her if she doesn't break free.
Gabe is using sex as a means to an end, not really feeling anything that's happened in the last six years since Fran walked out of his life. He's drowning, and pushing his body to the limits with every feeling he can't work out of his system (literally and figuratively).
When theirs paths collide again after being pushed together for a work project (thanks to miscommunication from both of their dads, who happen to be BEST FRIENDS, who happen to be their BOSSES) they have to navigate the hurt feelings of the past, and the realization they still love each other, deeply.
This story was so beautiful to experience and their relationship is one of my favorites.
Fran and Gabe's relationship is so heartbreaking and sweet and sexy and completely theirs. The moment we meet the two characters (okay maybe not the MOMENT we meet Gabe, iykyk) I fell in love.
Fran has been through so much in her short life and she's just surving, not actually living her life. The shadows of her past loom over her and threaten to consume her if she doesn't break free.
Gabe is using sex as a means to an end, not really feeling anything that's happened in the last six years since Fran walked out of his life. He's drowning, and pushing his body to the limits with every feeling he can't work out of his system (literally and figuratively).
When theirs paths collide again after being pushed together for a work project (thanks to miscommunication from both of their dads, who happen to be BEST FRIENDS, who happen to be their BOSSES) they have to navigate the hurt feelings of the past, and the realization they still love each other, deeply.
This story was so beautiful to experience and their relationship is one of my favorites.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m overwhelmed with how much I loved this book, I knew it’d be good but it blew my mind. I loved the progression of the story for someone who is not a massive fan of second chance romance, I can say this book changed my mind. The trope was written so well.
The emotions in this book, I warn you, you will need tissues, I cried so many times, sad tears, happy tears! The absolute love I have for the characters is unhealthy for fictional characters, Gabe? What can I say, my heart went to him, I feel his character was so relatable especially as the youngest sibling. His love for Tabitha (dog) love it (and Tabi’s sass!) also his connection with his brothers I hope we get see them more.
Fran? I loved her in Haven (book 1) but seeing her growth throughout this book, was beautiful. Her pain felt very real and her happiness shone through, I wanted to hug her so badly.
Overall - 5 stars, spice was amazing and does not over power the plot at all. Second chance romance with secrets to keep you waiting, slow burn but worth every second.
Thank you Wren for this ARC, all opinions and views are my own.
The emotions in this book, I warn you, you will need tissues, I cried so many times, sad tears, happy tears! The absolute love I have for the characters is unhealthy for fictional characters, Gabe? What can I say, my heart went to him, I feel his character was so relatable especially as the youngest sibling. His love for Tabitha (dog) love it (and Tabi’s sass!) also his connection with his brothers I hope we get see them more.
Fran? I loved her in Haven (book 1) but seeing her growth throughout this book, was beautiful. Her pain felt very real and her happiness shone through, I wanted to hug her so badly.
Overall - 5 stars, spice was amazing and does not over power the plot at all. Second chance romance with secrets to keep you waiting, slow burn but worth every second.
Thank you Wren for this ARC, all opinions and views are my own.
May 26, 2026
⭐️4
Thank you to Naughty Nook PR and the author for the ARC! In exchange for an honest review.
Going into this book, I genuinely thought it was going to end up being my new favorite book. The buildup between these characters had me completely hooked, and I was so intrigued by their history, chemistry, and everything they had gone through together. But my biggest issue was honestly once they got together. I felt like it happened a little too quickly. One moment they were making up and the next they were already all in, and I personally would’ve loved more push and pull between them before fully becoming a couple. I think that more tension would’ve made the romance hit even harder for me.
I really that this book showed how both characters dealt with their struggles and trauma throughout the story. I appreciated that the author didn’t shy away from showing how deeply everything affected them. I also loved how supportive the people around them were. The friend group felt so caring and genuine, and it was nice seeing characters constantly showing up for each other during difficult moments. I especially loved how Franny and Gee helped each other heal and grow over time.
Even with that, I still really enjoyed this book. The emotional buildup, the chemistry, kept me invested the entire time, and I’m definitely interested in reading more from this author.
Thank you to Naughty Nook PR and the author for the ARC! In exchange for an honest review.
Going into this book, I genuinely thought it was going to end up being my new favorite book. The buildup between these characters had me completely hooked, and I was so intrigued by their history, chemistry, and everything they had gone through together. But my biggest issue was honestly once they got together. I felt like it happened a little too quickly. One moment they were making up and the next they were already all in, and I personally would’ve loved more push and pull between them before fully becoming a couple. I think that more tension would’ve made the romance hit even harder for me.
I really that this book showed how both characters dealt with their struggles and trauma throughout the story. I appreciated that the author didn’t shy away from showing how deeply everything affected them. I also loved how supportive the people around them were. The friend group felt so caring and genuine, and it was nice seeing characters constantly showing up for each other during difficult moments. I especially loved how Franny and Gee helped each other heal and grow over time.
Even with that, I still really enjoyed this book. The emotional buildup, the chemistry, kept me invested the entire time, and I’m definitely interested in reading more from this author.
May 27, 2026
Roots by @wrenwilloughbywrites
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
@wrenwilloughbywrites promised a romance that has you kicking your feet at 2am but also covering some heavy discussions and she has absolutely delivered with Roots. Both books in this series have been amazing and I can’t wait for book 3.
Game and Fran are just the nicest people; the characters that you absolutely want to be friends with - I loved them both equally and together they are the dream couple. You know the ones where they absolutely make each other the best possible version of themselves and most importantly showcase their partner - yep that’s them.
Roots is a story of healing. Both characters have trauma, some of which is interlinked while other aspects are separate. Together they heal from the traumas but also their relationship which once upon a time had been so close but after one event is completely severed. @wrenwilloughbywrites explores trauma and mental health so well - it’s done with sensitivity, without shying away but without falling into darkness.
@wrenwilloughbywrites I now desperately need a book 3!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
@wrenwilloughbywrites promised a romance that has you kicking your feet at 2am but also covering some heavy discussions and she has absolutely delivered with Roots. Both books in this series have been amazing and I can’t wait for book 3.
Game and Fran are just the nicest people; the characters that you absolutely want to be friends with - I loved them both equally and together they are the dream couple. You know the ones where they absolutely make each other the best possible version of themselves and most importantly showcase their partner - yep that’s them.
Roots is a story of healing. Both characters have trauma, some of which is interlinked while other aspects are separate. Together they heal from the traumas but also their relationship which once upon a time had been so close but after one event is completely severed. @wrenwilloughbywrites explores trauma and mental health so well - it’s done with sensitivity, without shying away but without falling into darkness.
@wrenwilloughbywrites I now desperately need a book 3!!
May 31, 2026
Emotional trauma, love and Recovery
This is the second book in the series and follows the story of Fran and Gabe. Childhood friends who grew apart after an incident at a party.
This book is emotionally charged from the offset, there is so much emotional trauma to unpack from both of the main characters. Grieving the death of a loved one, grieving a friendship that could have been so much more, recovery from a physical attack and feeling unloved and inadequate.
Wren Willoughby has an incredible talent for writing emotional storylines that comes across so well on the page that you feel you are there with the characters sharing their emotions.
There are a lot of trigger warnings for this book but at the same time it's filled with so much warmth and some humour and some very cute fur babies thrown in for good measure.
I have to give Wren Willoughby lots of credit for how she wrote the incident involving the MMC towards the end of the book, for me this was the most emotive part of the book.
I really hope we get Silas' story next.
This is the second book in the series and follows the story of Fran and Gabe. Childhood friends who grew apart after an incident at a party.
This book is emotionally charged from the offset, there is so much emotional trauma to unpack from both of the main characters. Grieving the death of a loved one, grieving a friendship that could have been so much more, recovery from a physical attack and feeling unloved and inadequate.
Wren Willoughby has an incredible talent for writing emotional storylines that comes across so well on the page that you feel you are there with the characters sharing their emotions.
There are a lot of trigger warnings for this book but at the same time it's filled with so much warmth and some humour and some very cute fur babies thrown in for good measure.
I have to give Wren Willoughby lots of credit for how she wrote the incident involving the MMC towards the end of the book, for me this was the most emotive part of the book.
I really hope we get Silas' story next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and I am very grateful! I saw this book making its rounds on IG and was immediately intrigued. It had so many of my favorite tropes that I immediately applied to join the ARC team and I was so excited to see I was selected. I highly recommend reading the first in the series prior to reading this, as a lot of the backstory and explanation happens in the previous book. It should be noted that this is in no way a light, happy read. There are extremely heavy topics discussed, so make sure you read content warnings. Even so, the sensitive topics were handled well and I enjoyed getting to know the MCs and see their progression from childhood friends turned enemies turned lovers and rooted for the MCs throughout the entire book. I also loved the interior design aspect and getting to visualize the designs described and think Fran and I have very similar taste in more ways than one lol. Looking forward to future books from this author!
May 25, 2026
Roots was an emotional and heartfelt second-chance romance that really pulled me into Fran and Gabe’s story. I loved the history between them and the way their relationship slowly rebuilt over time. Gabe was especially easy to root for, and the chemistry between them felt genuine and full of tension. Fran’s struggles were handled with care, and her journey toward healing added a lot of depth to the story. The small-town atmosphere and family business setting gave the book a cosy feel, while the open-door romance added plenty of steam without overshadowing the emotional side of the plot. That said, the pacing did feel a little stretched at times, and the story was a bit longer than what was needed to cover everything. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is not my usual read, but I'm so glad I traveled this story. There is so much any person can endure. This is a romance between childhood soul mates torn apart by poor choices. This read felt so alive. Meeting Fran and Gabe at the very difficult end of friendship was brutal. Watching them grow and navigate the fallout was so endearing. One of my favorite things is the dual pov. There were parts of the story I could guess but many times I was sooo surprised by the characters choices. But not about the praise for Sterling K Brown, he's a talented actor. Definitely give this a read.
Thank you Wren Willloughby and Naughty Nook pr for sending me this beautiful read. All opinions are my own.
Thank you Wren Willloughby and Naughty Nook pr for sending me this beautiful read. All opinions are my own.
May 25, 2026
Roots by Wren Willoughby (472 pages) ARC READ
5⭐
I loved how we got to see the start of their friendship breaking and while we didn't know the full reason why it was nice to get some context. I love that Gabe was so sweet with Fran, so patient and really gave her time to open up and be herself, bringing her out of her shelf. I'll admit his dad annoyed me so much, I just wanted him to be nice to Gabe like c'mon he was working so hard and to not even get a basic well done. I love Jack, Willow, Silas and Elle. I hope we get Silas and Elles books. The spice was so good, I do really enjoy that they were friends first and developed that friendship again before anything happened. I love this series so much it holds such a special place in my heart.
5⭐
I loved how we got to see the start of their friendship breaking and while we didn't know the full reason why it was nice to get some context. I love that Gabe was so sweet with Fran, so patient and really gave her time to open up and be herself, bringing her out of her shelf. I'll admit his dad annoyed me so much, I just wanted him to be nice to Gabe like c'mon he was working so hard and to not even get a basic well done. I love Jack, Willow, Silas and Elle. I hope we get Silas and Elles books. The spice was so good, I do really enjoy that they were friends first and developed that friendship again before anything happened. I love this series so much it holds such a special place in my heart.
May 30, 2026
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
🪻ex best friends to lovers
🪻work place romance
🪻virgin fmc
🪻slow burn
This is the second book of the series and I absolutely adored it.
Fran and Gabes story is beautiful they were childhood Bestfriends even born on the same day. They haven't seen each other in 6 years after something happened which broke their friendship. They end up both working for their dad's family business which was a bit awkward at first, but they rekindle their friendship and more.
It's quite an emotional read in places, and the spice is chefs kiss.
You need to read Haven (book 1) before reading this one as you won't get the story otherwise.
I can't say to much as this is our July's bookclub book but I got it as an ARC.
Both books are incredible though and I highly recommend them.
🪻ex best friends to lovers
🪻work place romance
🪻virgin fmc
🪻slow burn
This is the second book of the series and I absolutely adored it.
Fran and Gabes story is beautiful they were childhood Bestfriends even born on the same day. They haven't seen each other in 6 years after something happened which broke their friendship. They end up both working for their dad's family business which was a bit awkward at first, but they rekindle their friendship and more.
It's quite an emotional read in places, and the spice is chefs kiss.
You need to read Haven (book 1) before reading this one as you won't get the story otherwise.
I can't say to much as this is our July's bookclub book but I got it as an ARC.
Both books are incredible though and I highly recommend them.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely adored this book - Roots really has it all: raw emotion, swoon-worthy romance, and the spice is top tier!
We follow Fran as she starts her new job, and just so happens to be working alongside her ex-best friend Gabe. Can they keep their relationship professional? Will they be able to deal with their past?
I fell for both MC's and enjoyed their development and growth. Wren's writing is perfect; she paints the scenes so well as we see both Fran and Gabe navigate their relationship and obstacles.
The relationship between the two is a bit of a slow burn, but when the spice hits, it really hits!
A fabulous read!
We follow Fran as she starts her new job, and just so happens to be working alongside her ex-best friend Gabe. Can they keep their relationship professional? Will they be able to deal with their past?
I fell for both MC's and enjoyed their development and growth. Wren's writing is perfect; she paints the scenes so well as we see both Fran and Gabe navigate their relationship and obstacles.
The relationship between the two is a bit of a slow burn, but when the spice hits, it really hits!
A fabulous read!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This book follows Frannie, Jack's daughter from book 1 Haven
I loved the back story of Frannie and Gabe, it was beautifully written and the character development between the two of them was emotional to watch.
Wren this story with so many topics showing trauma and mental health that it was described in that as captivating and beautiful.
I loved everything about this book. You had me sobbing and then swooning and then in the next breath swooning with the spice
Thankyou for allowing me to be an arc reader, I can't wait flto read more from you.
This is my honest review
I loved the back story of Frannie and Gabe, it was beautifully written and the character development between the two of them was emotional to watch.
Wren this story with so many topics showing trauma and mental health that it was described in that as captivating and beautiful.
I loved everything about this book. You had me sobbing and then swooning and then in the next breath swooning with the spice
Thankyou for allowing me to be an arc reader, I can't wait flto read more from you.
This is my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
WREN YOU KILL MEEEE
this is such a beautiful, moving, and heart-warming (also breaking) story! Fran and Gabe have had a rocky history, but the two childhood best friends reconnect in a work place forced-proximity second chance romance!
Both of them have demons to battle, together and individually, and reading their story was so perfect!
I will always recommend wrens writing, definitely read Haven first so you know everyone and the backstory for Fran!
Thank you to Naughty Nook PR and Wren for this ARC!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
WREN YOU KILL MEEEE
this is such a beautiful, moving, and heart-warming (also breaking) story! Fran and Gabe have had a rocky history, but the two childhood best friends reconnect in a work place forced-proximity second chance romance!
Both of them have demons to battle, together and individually, and reading their story was so perfect!
I will always recommend wrens writing, definitely read Haven first so you know everyone and the backstory for Fran!
Thank you to Naughty Nook PR and Wren for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh Wren! You've done it again! I loved this book so much! I love Jack I really do, I'm sorry Gabriel Johnson is it for me. I love everythjng about this book. The way these two people who feel the same feelings of being broken and lonely only to find that they are the only ones who can heal eachother after all tbis time. Tears were shed, both sad and happy tears. I really loved both these characters and I think they were really relatable. What I loved most is that this book shows men can be targeted and attacked too, not just women and that is a really important message! Well done Wren. Beautiful simply beautiful (p.s Freddie and Tabs need their own book)
May 25, 2026
Roots
Ahhh I loved every second of this. Fran and Gabe are genuinely meant to be. If you want a book that has a little bit of everything in, then this book is for you! With humour, spice and some emotional moments too. Their relationship takes a bit of time to come through fully but when it does, it is so worth it!!
Ahhh I loved every second of this. Fran and Gabe are genuinely meant to be. If you want a book that has a little bit of everything in, then this book is for you! With humour, spice and some emotional moments too. Their relationship takes a bit of time to come through fully but when it does, it is so worth it!!
Review of advance copy
Friends to lovers is my absolute favourite trope and boy did this deliver. I totally fell in love with these characters, and they both had such depths. I actually read this before book 1 and am definitely going to go back and check that one out.
May 26, 2026
This is book two in the Love on the Tyne series. It’s a very engaging friends to lovers romance. It’s a beautifully written story with humor, emotion, chemistry and spice. A great second chance romance. I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rtc
May 27, 2026
A beautifully written love story, entwined with trauma - which Wren has written about so sensitively. I have fallen in love with these characters, and this world, completely ❤️
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