Wreck the Waves: A small town brother's best friend romance

by Alexis Grace

Six years ago, I kissed my brother’s best friend. He thinks I don’t remember but I do…

Roman is my kryptonite. Ocean eyes, lonely heart and a nasty habit of saving my ass. But I’m done needing my ass saved.

The

Return to my hometown.
Open a coffee shop.
Avoid Roman Banks like my life depends on it.

My family think my new business venture is the latest in a long list of bad decisions, but I’ll do whatever it takes to make the coffee shop a reality, even work with the one person who is most definitely off-limits.

I vow to keep things professional but when Roman learns I lied about not remembering our first and only kiss, it’s game over. The boy who said we could never be, is now the man who looks at me like I’m his.

But my reckless past is coming back to bite me. Someone isn’t happy I’m back in Pine Rock and this may be one problem even Roman can’t fix.


Wreck the Waves is a brother's best friend, small town romance featuring one dirty talking rancher, seaside vibes, some serious spice, and just a touch of suspense. It is book one in the Pine Rock series but can be read as a standalone.

this book has a possessive, alpha hero and explicit scenes, 18+ recommended.

Genres: Small Town Romance, Romance, Found Family

325 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication January 3, 2026

Reviews

[Zoë Nira · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 stars)

When Alexis said she was going to write a brother’s best friend romance, I was already sold and Wreck the Waves absolutely delivered.

Alexis’ writing style is so enjoyable; you read it the way you drink a glass of water, effortlessly and without even realising how fast you’re going. From the very first moment, there was tension and banter. I was already giggling in chapter one, but at the same time, I deeply empathised with Lola and her trauma.

Lola is fierce and determined to handle everything on her own (which I understand very well). Some things aren’t fully revealed in the story, and I’ve seen this described as miscommunication in other reviews, but honestly? I completely understood why Lola kept certain things to herself. Her choices made emotional sense to me.

Roman though… 🥵 I loved how he wanted Lola to be exactly who she is, wild, bratty, and sometimes a little impulsive. His protectiveness and possessiveness? Perfection. Roman has my whole heart.

The only reason this isn’t a full 5-star read for me is because I kind of guessed the plot. In my defence, I read all six books in the Sparrow Falls series by Catherine Cowles this year, so I’m basically trained to suspect the people you least expect to be involved 😂.

That said, Alexis absolutely SLAYED once again. Wreck the Waves was emotional, swoony, and impossible to put down and I can’t wait for what she writes next!!!

[Robin Primo · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️
ARC review

This is my first ever Alexis Grace book, and I don’t know why, because this was a masterpiece. The storyline, the tension, the suspense, Roman, the small-town vibes — I loved everything about it!

I feel for Lola, she’s been dealt a wrong hand. The way her family treats her, my heart hurts for her 🥺 But the way Roman has her back heals something in me at the same time.

I love the friendships throughout this book, the brotherhood of Mase and Roman was the absolute best.

The beginning parts of each chapter were so fun to gain some insight into the past without needing the whole story. This was so fun and nice.

I was already planning to rate this book 5 stars, but the ending, phew, this changed my 5-star rating to 5+ stars. I don’t care that it isn’t possible.

The last thing I want to add: Roman is amazing, an English snack and I love him

[Jada Elise · Rating 4 out of 5]

** ARC Review **

This book was so good!! Such a cute, brother’s best friend, age gap romance with some heavier/darker themes throughout. I loved Lola and her resilience & strength, and I looooovveeeddd how sweet & caring Roman was. He also has a dirty mouth 🥵

The plot was good and the spice was spicy but not overbearing. Chapter 21?? Had me screaming, giggling & kicking my feet! I’m wanting more from the side characters… specifically Mase & Jarred 👀 can’t wait to see what else Alexis has in store for us in her Pine Rock world ✨ now I’m going to make some APPLE FRIES 🍎

[Anouk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who doesn't want to get railed against a ladder by a dirty-mouthed rancher who's also their brother's best-friend? 👀

First of all, a huge thank you to the author and Grey's Promotion for sending me this ARC. If it wasn't already clear before, I can now safely say that if Alexis Grace writes it, I'll read it. Naturally, this was different from the Of Mine series, but no less fun.

In this romantic suspense, things are not as they seem. With brief flashbacks interwoven throughout the story, we get to build our own picture of the past and the characters' shared history. These glimpses offer a deeper insight into their relationship, and although some are quite sad - definitely check the trigger warnings before reading - there are also plenty fun ones.

Alexis' writing is, as always, captivating. Add to that the seaside setting and the beautiful worldbuilding, and you're immediately filled with a deep longing for the coffee shop, the apple orchard and the quaint small town this story is set in 🌊

Now onto the romance - my favourite part. There's loads of banter and tension between Lola and Roman. Not only is there the issue of Roman being her brother's best-friend, but there's also a seven-year age gap. Still, they want each other. Countless times I found myself giggling at their interactions or clutching my pearls because they made me so damn anxious. This book made me - odd as it may sound, especially considering the triggers - unbelievably happy 🤭

Another treat was Roman's possessiveness. I love my men possessive, and the mouth on that man? Good Lord! Jealousy can be so hot when done right - and it absolutely is here. I've already mentioned it, but I fear I'll have to say it again: the scene with the ladder? Sold. Immediately sold!

Absolutely cannot wait to revisit Pine Rock with Jarred's book!!

4 ⭐️ ARC Review

[Briana Eastman · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ ARC Review

I fell in love with Alexis Grace’s Of Mine series earlier this year and its lived rent free in my head ever since! When the opportunity struck to sign up to become an ARC reader for her newest small town series, I was there in a millisecond and beyond grateful to be chosen as it is my first time ever receiving an ARC copy! I was over the moon with excitement!

Wreck the Waves held me captive from just the dedication page, truly speaking to my soul! I was only more hooked from the first chapter with the ice cream cart scene that made me gasp out loud and kicking my feet with glee under my cozy blanket! Roman is everything you’d want in your fictional man as a sexy rancher, plant daddy, brat tamer, and fellow bookworm! If that wasn’t all, the YEARNING for six years after his best friend’s sister would do it! Lola is just as lovable with her dream of owning a coffee shop in her home town and a heart of steel to achieve her goal! I loved my first visit to Pine Rock with Lola & Roman, and very much looking forward to the next!

P.S. Thank you for including Lola’s Apple Fries recipe, I’ll have to pair with my next coffee! ☕️🍎

[Sabrina Gould · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Arc Review✨
Where do I even start? I love Alexis writing style and how she brings everything to life. Her writing makes me feel the emotions of the characters as if I’m the one going through it.

Wreck the waves has wrecked me. I cried sad tears and also very happy tears.
The plot was phenomenal and the twists???? Come on I didn’t see it coming!
I think anyone and everyone will fall for Roman! Down to earth man who where’s flannels and a cowboy hat? Yes please, also there’s a part where he reminds me of Jess from Gilmore girls. When you read it, you’ll know 😏🤭

Small town🏘️
Brothers best friend ❤️
Blackmail ✉️
Heartbreak 💔
Healing ❤️‍🩹
APPLE FRIES 🍎🍟 that’s all!

[Alberte · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️
3 🌶

"I dream about that kiss. Lola doesn't even remember it."

Alexis Grace you wonderful woman thank you for letting me read this book and thank you for the ARC.
As always an absolute banger. I feel like I can now say I will always like your book, I was very excited to see a different genre and a new series after reding the Of Mine series, but this was an absolute rocking brothers best friend, small town romance.

This was exactly what I want from a brothers best friend romance - Roman is actually resisting her even though it is so painfully obvious that they love each other. I love that Mase makes a small scene and then gets over himself, because honestly, the man is allowed to react but it was also very nice that it wasn't a bigger issue".
Also it was the perfect age gap where that also added to the forbidden aspect, but was low key not a problem.

Roman was 100% a fictional man written by a woman, because what do you mean the man just wants to hold onto her hair tie. Swoon! But also he can be absolutely filthy when he wants to. YES please. Alexis Grace really said: Get yourself a man that can do both.

Mase was a really well written character, there was a lot of growth, and you really want to know more about him but also he didn't take up too much space in the book.

Lola was also great. She definitely had her flaws, but also she was real and trying to grow. She came across as a bit immature some times but it was written so you always knew it came from her insecurities and it was never really more than that. She was also really strong and just trying to navigate life.

The plot in this book was wild. Not because it was absolutely crazy, but because whenever you thought it was time to catch a break, someting new would happen. While I do think some aspects of the book was passed by a little too fast, I do also really like the pace of the book and in general that just made the book really captivating.

I think it was interesting how every chapter would begin with a little throwback that created a sense of context. In the beginning I could figure out if I liked it or not, but I ended up thinking it did something good for the book.

I can't wait for this series to continue, because I think Alexis Grace did an amazing job of introducing some other interesting characters in this book. So while I can't wait for Mase to hopefully get his own book one day, I am also really excited to read the others stories.

I have had such a great time reading this book, and honestly I'm just a lille sad that I already finished it.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alexis Grace does it again.

After loving the Of Mine series, I was excited to see her explore a new genre and begin a new series and Wreck the Waves did not disappoint. This is a brother’s best friend, small-town romance that leans heavily into emotional tension, slow-burn restraint, and characters who feel genuinely human.

Roman is exactly what I want from this trope. He resists and he struggles. He knows the line and tries very hard not to cross it, which made their connection feel earned rather than rushed. The age gap added an extra layer of tension and “forbidden” energy without ever feeling uncomfortable or like a real problem within the story. Roman also fits perfectly into the category of “fictional man written by a woman” in the best way. He’s tender when it matters, grounded, and capable of surprising depth.

Lola was a strong and realistic female lead. She isn’t perfect, and the book doesn’t pretend she is. At times she comes across as immature, but it’s always clear that her behaviour stems from insecurity and lived experience rather than poor writing. Watching her growth throughout the book felt natural and satisfying, and I appreciated that her strength showed up quietly rather than loudly.

Mase was a standout supporting character. His reaction to the situation felt realistic and appropriately emotional without turning into unnecessary drama. He had meaningful growth while still allowing the central romance to remain the focus. I found myself wanting to know more about him, which speaks to how well he was written, and I truly hope he gets his own book in the future.

The pacing of Wreck the Waves kept me fully engaged. The plot wasn’t wild because of shock value, but because it rarely allowed the reader to fully relax. Just when it felt like things might settle, something new would happen. While a few moments moved a little too quickly, the overall rhythm made the book incredibly difficult to put down.

One element I especially enjoyed was the chapter openings with small throwbacks. At first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about them, but as the story progressed, they added valuable context and emotional grounding.

Overall, Wreck the Waves was a compelling, engaging read and a strong start to a new series. Alexis Grace did an excellent job setting up future stories, and I’m already eager to see where this world goes next.

Please note that this book contains heavy themes, so checking the content warnings is strongly recommended.

Thank you to Alexis Grace and Grey’s Promotions for the opportunity to read this as an ARC for my honest opinion and review!

[liz ౨ৎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Ford siblings are making a habit of messing with my head these days.”

The Book
Lola has come back to the hometown she’s avoided for six years, a town inhabited by her childhood crush, who also happens to be her brother’s best friend. Now she’s forced to confront the man she believes rejected her, the awful memories that have haunted her since she left, and the scary shadow that’s been following her ever since she returned.

This book was lighthearted and homey, with just enough spice. I also loved the suspense aspect, which kept me glued to the pages and annoyed whenever I had to take a break. The coastal town and all of its characters left me excited to see more from this series, especially to explore more of the found family dynamic. I’ll be patiently waiting for Mase’s story (fingers crossed it’s in the cards).

➳ Lola Ford
fmc, 24 years old, “firebird”
Lola has been through so freaking much. I was honestly getting frustrated (for her) that the same trauma she dealt with from the beginning kept being brought up throughout the plot. That said, Lola was a very likable fmc, confident and outgoing, but also quite normal, with anxieties and a past she was trying to forget. I also thought her relationship with her brother, Mase, was super cute, and I’d love to see more in future books.

➳ Roman Banks
mmc, 31 years old, “Rome”
This was one of the first brother’s best friend trope books I’ve read in a while that didn’t include the sometimes drawn-out, annoying, and immature hiding from the best friend. Throughout the book, Roman was mature, reassuring, and honest. He also had a gruff, caveman side that occasionally made me cringe, but most of the time I found it endearing. For some reason, I couldn’t take him seriously lol.

Tropes
Small (coastal) town, brother's best friend, age gap (7 years)

ARC reader, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Alexia Gauthier · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brother’s best friend + age gap + small town = say less 👀

4.25 ⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️

Wreck The Waves is the kind of book that sneaks up on you: slow at first, then suddenly you’re knee-deep in emotion, tension, and longing you didn’t see coming.

This was my first Alexis Grace novel, and I’ll be honest: I was a little perplexed at the start. The story took a moment to fully pull me under. But once it did? I was invested, heart, soul, and caffeine addiction included.

Lola, our FMC, returns to her hometown of Pine Rock after six years abroad, determined to finally plant roots and open a coffee shop. She’s older, a little bruised by life, and desperate to prove, to herself and her family, that this time, she’s staying. Watching her face the quiet judgment and lack of support from her own family genuinely hurt. Those moments felt raw, real, and deeply human.

And then there’s Roman Banks. The brother’s-best-friend. The age gap. The history. Seven years older, emotionally guarded, and carrying years of restraint after one kiss that changed everything. Roman spends most of the book fighting what he wants for what he thinks is right… until he doesn’t. And that “fuck it” moment? Absolute chef’s kiss. The tension leading up to it is deliciously unbearable.

The story is layered with flashbacks, family conflict, and a few plot twists that keep things interesting without overshadowing the romance. When Roman finally stops pushing Lola away and starts looking at her like she’s his? Whew. Add the fact that he’s English, and I was fully sold. A rugged, cowboy-hat-wearing man with a British accent has no business being that attractive but here we are. 🥵

Wreck The Waves isn’t just about romance: it’s about coming home, being seen, and choosing yourself even when it’s hard. It’s imperfect in places, but those imperfections give it heart.

Thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the e-ARC, and congratulations to Alexis Grace on the upcoming release on January 3rd. Pine Rock made a strong first impression, and I’m definitely curious to see what comes next in this series.

[Nikisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read if you like: small town, brothers best friend, it’s always been you, childhood crush, protective mmc, 7 year age gap, “good girl”, found family, light suspense
As always, check the TW before delving into the story 🫶🏻

Lola has been travelling the world for years until she decides to move back to her small town to open a coffee shop. She has a tendency to be rebellious, fearless, reckless and has had a crush on her brother’s best friend forever. Roman is a rancher, he’s forbidden, hot, protective and just wants to be a part of a family.

It annoyed me when Lola would avoid everyone (she hates communication 😒) and I hated the way she didn’t tell anyone about her threatening messages and stalking 🙄 girl has survival instincts of a fart. She likes to think she’s grown up, but she doesn’t act like it at all imo. I also had a problem with the way they started with using protection and then suddenly dropped it with zero conversations about it.

I love how Roman wanted Lola to be exactly who she was - wild and bratty. That scene in the cafe with the ladder? Oh my, that was HOT!! 🔥 if you love a story where the MMC is protective and does all the chasing, you’ll love this one. I needed Lola to be giving him the same energy back, honestly felt like she didn’t deserve him half the time because he was so in love with her and his actions showed it.

The [redacted] in the last 10% of the book was wild to add in. It didn’t make sense and felt disjointed in the story. However, I did love the last chapter. It is so sweet my heart can’t take it. This book has me seriously craving for apple fries now

Thank you Grey’s Promotion for the ARC 💙

[Susan (Purplegalaxyreads94) · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, I’d like to thank Alexis Grace and Greys Promo for the gifted eARC in exchange for my honest and spoiler free review! Now, onto my thoughts!

This is a new author to me so when I started Wreck The Waves, I went in completely blind and not knowing what to expect. I was immediately sucked in from the very first chapter. Alexis’s writing style was so beautiful and so easy to follow along with that it felt like I could read a million more books like this one by her. For a small town, brother’s best friend romance…this book ticked off all the boxes I have for an amazing read. I loved our main characters, Roman and Lola. They had the protective friendship at first that slowly morphed into something more. Their banter was great and I loved how they both really knew one another so well. Even with Lola’s family dynamic, Roman was the one who was truly able to see her and not see her as someone who makes mistakes.

There was plenty of banter, sweet spice and even some suspense that made for a well rounded story. I loved the little snippets of the past that was weaving in and out throughout the story as it really helped build upon the readers imagination. The scenes of the past laid the foundation for our main characters and explained the dynamic between the two of them in ways that are important for a reader to know to fully grasp who our characters are meant to be. Overall, Lola and Roman are absolutely meant for each other and I definitely found myself smiling from ear to ear whenever they had their special moments together. I am so curious about this author’s other works and would love to check out more by her as well as more in this series!

[The_Book_Brat · Rating 5 out of 5]

*M/F
*Contemporary
*Dual-1st-PoV
*Small Town Romance
*Dark Elements
*Brothers Best Friend
*Age Gap
*FMC with trauma
*Protective MMC
*High Heat
*Mid-Slow Burn
*Standalone
swoon-worthy small-town standalone.! 😍
Ahhh I loved this connection between Lola and Roman, they will do anything for each other - their connection is genuine and they have real chemistry 😄
Our FMC Lola has been deemed the wild or reckless child and it’s lied with her into adulthood, yet in reality she was just exploring her freedom and being a general teen. She’s desperate to be given the chance to show she’s grown up; she’s fierce and determined to make something of herself and she absolutely does 👑 she has faced abuse in her past (not depicted on page but referred to) and it appears she may also have some current trauma to deal with 😣 Not only that but being back in her home town has brought her back in direct contact with her childhood crush Roman- at first they fight their clear attraction to each other; its sniping an putting things down to ‘sibling-like’ connections; however it’s apparent there’s a flame between them! 🌶🔥 Roman is extremely protective of Lola, and he truly believes n her - despite the fact everyone else judges her nature he adores her reckless, impulsive and bratty side 😍 The writing and pace flow really ell and here’s is a good balance of giving you enough detail to understand and enjoy the story whilst also holding bits of the character story and the plot back for engagement 🤔 There was some great red-herrings and shocks in this too! I would definitely recommend this a swoon-worthy small-town standalone.

[Mariah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cutesy, small-town vibes, romance that gives you butterflies and starts a fire low in your belly. These are just a few things that describe Wreck the Waves.

I jumped into this after having read Alexis's first series which is VERY dark, and also why choose. I wasn't sure how she'd pull it off simply because she's SO freaking fantastic at dark romance mmmkay? But, jeez Louise she blew my expectations well beyond out of the water with this one!

Lola is one of the most well-written chaos queens I've ever read in a non-dark romance setting, that is. Homegirl spent her early years getting into all sorts of trouble, but when she returns to Pine Rock she's trying to start fresh instead of picking up where she left off.

Then along comes Roman the boy Lola has loved for forever and also run from for six years. Roman is the epitome of the perfect small town man who isn't afraid to get his hands dirty to protect, but also talks, acts and thinks even dirtier in a more private setting 😉 The things that leave this man's mouth, and the things he does, just 🥵

Things have changed in Pine Rock when Lola returns, but one thing she'd hoped would still remain buried in the past suddenly becomes a major hindrance to her plans for her fresh, new future. You won't see who the problem lies with until you're gasping at the end of the book. Buckle up fam, this is one hell of a story and you absolutely do NOT want to miss it. Alexis this was PERFECTION please keep writing in Pine Rock I love it here!
Plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶

[Briana Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review ✨
First I would like to say a big thank you to Alexis for letting me be apart of this ARC Team!
Rate: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 3/5🌶️

What to expect when reading Wreck the Waves;
-Brothers Best Friend
-Age Gap
-Small town
-Romantic Suspense
-Secondish Chance

This is book one of the Pine Rock series! You get to follow Lola and Roman! Wow! I enjoyed this sooooo much I’m honestly sad it’s over.

Lola is a hot mess express and I’m here for every second of her! Roman is her brother’s best friend and someone she had crushed on for as long as she can remember. Now that she is back home she has new adult plans and nothing will stand in her way. Or at least that what she thinks.

This book takes on a whirlwind adventure with funny, spicy and suspenseful times. Without giving too much away this definitely kept me on my toes until the very end. I loved the characters and the chemistry between Lol and Roman was perfection! Also the mouth on this man, she did not mess around when creating Roman🥵

Side notes:
-Skyler 😂
-The shirt *jaw on floor*

Fav Quote:
•”you set one barn on fire”
•”You need me, Firebird. Only me. And I’m right. F**king. Here.”

Make sure you get your copy of the book when it releases Jan. 3rd🩵
#bookstagram #romance #review

[Eilis Quinn · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off thank you so much for this ARC!!
I absolutely adored the Of Mine series and was very excited to see what she could do with a small town romance 💘

It follows Lola, returning home to open her coffee shop but struggling to shake off the reputation she gained in her teen years and forgetting her moment with her brother’s best friend Roman. But someone doesn’t want her home and is making it known…

Firstly I adore the plot of this book! It combined a lot of the things I love most in romance books and the balance of suspense to romance was perfect!
I loved learning about Lola. Shes such a free spirit and I love that her “recklessness” is such a part of who she is. Shes got her past and her traumas but doesn’t let them define her.
Roman is a cutie through and through. He’s such a gentleman and I enjoyed seeing him lose control to take what he wants. His protectiveness was beautiful as he didn’t stifle Lola with it.
This is the perfect small town romance to start the new year off when it releases on the 3rd of Jan

✨ Small town romantic suspense
✨ Brothers best friend
✨ Childhood crush
✨ He falls harder

💕 Apple fries 🍟
💕 The seaside vibes
💕 The family dynamics
💕 The coffee ☕️

[Read_with_Beans · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honest review in exchange for the author providing an eARC!

Book 1 of a new Series, Pine Rock is going to be one you do not want to miss! This book has everything. Suspense, humor, trauma, depth, romance, and smoking hot spicy scenes. I very much look forward to the next book in the series.

Check TW/CW before reading.

BLURB...
Six years ago, I kissed my brother’s best friend. He thinks I don’t remember
but I do…

Roman is my kryptonite. Ocean eyes, lonely heart and a nasty habit of saving my ass. But I’m done needing my ass saved.

The plan:
Return to my hometown.
Open a coffee shop.
Avoid Roman Banks like my life depends on it.

My family think my new business venture is the latest in a long list of bad decisions, but I’ll do whatever it takes to make the coffee shop a reality, even work with the one person who is most definitely off-limits.

I vow to keep things professional but when Roman learns I lied about not
remembering our first and only kiss, it’s game over. The boy who said we could never be, is now the man who looks at me like I’m his.

But my reckless past is coming back to bite me. Someone isn’t happy I’m back in Pine Rock and this may be one problem even Roman can’t fix.

[Marie-Hélène · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is so right up my alley it’s not even funny. Suspense, romance, brother’s best friend, AND small town? Hell yes. I read (and loved) Alexis’ Of Mine series, so when I saw she was writing this book, I couldn’t wait to divulge into her storytelling again.

Lola is a wild child, whose difficult birth circumstances caused worrying parents and thus a rebellious teenager. On her 18th birthday, a Big Bad Thing happens, and she takes off, travelling and discovering the world and more importantly herself for six years, but now she’s back with a dream and determination to open her own coffee shop. Roman is her brother’s best friend, a child her parents took in every vacation, who over time became like a second son - but one day, when Lola’s eleven, he gave her a toy whale and she she never got over that crush. This is a childhood crush/brother’s best friend to lovers story, and the support and absolute belief in each other is wonderful. They belong together, everyone could see that, and this is the story how they finally discover that as well.

[Julissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely love love love this small town romance story! Alexis did such an amazing job once again. 💋

Roman!🫶🏼 I love everything about you 🤭😏🤤. Your hotness and controlling energy (when needed😏) but especially your dirty mouth.
Alexis wrote him perfectly and I completely fell in love with him. The way he loves is perfect and has a big heart for those he cares about.

Lola is wild but strong in every way possible. I love her story and what she did with her life. Goals girl !

This story was perfect and you felt every emotion. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ . Only reason I gave a 4 star was because I guessed what happened but that’s because my mind won’t shut off and it’s going a million miles per second 😂. I’m also impatient and always try to guess it 🫣🫠. But honestly it was such a great read and highly recommend reading!!

I can’t wait to read more about Pine Rock. I read this book in a total of 3 days and that’s only because I had to pack up my house 🤦🏻‍♀️😂

#SmallTownRomance #BrothersBestFriend #ItsAlwaysBeenYou #ChildhoodCrush #IndependentHeroine #ProtectiveHero

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️

This book is pretty different from Alexis’ other series “Of Mine,” but I was hooked from page 1!

Lola has always been a wild child and after an awful night on her 18th birthday, she leaves her small town of Pine Ridge and goes off to explore the world. Six years later, she’s back home to open up her own coffee shop. Her own family doesn’t believe in her, but the one man who has always come to her aid is right by her side… and just so happens to be her brothers best friend.

Roman has spent the last 15 years of his life trying to find comfort in Pine Ridge and while he’s settled in comfortably, he’s not content. At least not until Lola, the long time love of his life, comes breezing back into town.

A stalker, a junkie, and a business man all try to destroy a coffee bar… but Lola and Roman face it together.

There were some continuity issues, but overall I am really loving this new series from Alexis and I can’t wait to read some of the other stories.

**ARC review

[Aria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wreck the Waves by Alexis Grace is a heartfelt 4-star small-town romance that delivers all the emotional beats promised by its brother’s-best-friend setup. Set in a coastal town with easy seaside vibes, it blends second chances, unresolved tension, and family complications into a very bingeable story.The chemistry between the leads feels natural and grounded, with plenty of pining, history, and that delicious mix of comfort and longing that comes from “I’ve wanted you for years and shouldn’t.” The writing is engaging and accessible, and the spice complements the emotional journey rather than overwhelming it, which makes the softer, more vulnerable moments land even better. If you enjoy small-town settings, brother’s-best-friend tension, and emotionally charged romance with some serious heat, Wreck the Waves is a very satisfying read and a strong start to the Pine Rock world. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it. Every single minute of it.

Lola and Roman were exactly who I didn’t know I needed—intense, emotional, and completely addictive from start to finish. The tension? Immaculate. The chemistry? Off the charts. This book had me glued to the pages, equal parts melting and feral.

✨ Spice: 5/5
🔥 Possessiveness: 5/5
💥 Tropes I devoured:
• Brother’s best friend
• Friends to lovers
• “I’d do anything for you” energy
• Protective, no-nonsense MMC who means it

Roman is the kind of male lead who doesn’t ask—he commands, and somehow it’s everything. Lines like:

“Lola.” He crosses his arms over his chest and waits till my eyes find his. “Take. Off. Your. Clothes.”

…live rent free in my head.

This story delivers on passion, loyalty, and that gut-deep connection that makes you feel like these characters were written just for you. If you love emotionally charged romance with high spice and even higher stakes, this one is an absolute must-read. 💫📖

[ThatsSomeGoodSmut · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Grey's Promotions and the author for a copy of this book

Wreck the Waves pulled me in fast and didn’t let go. From the moment Lola comes back to Pine Rock, everything feels charged. The unfinished history, the family baggage, the kiss that never stopped mattering. It all hums under the surface in a way that made this hard to put down.

I really liked Lola. She’s stubborn, a little reckless, and determined to prove she can stand on her own, even when that determination works against her. Roman is exactly what I want from a brother’s best friend romance. He resists, he tries to do the right thing, and when he finally stops pretending he doesn’t want her, it hits harder because of that restraint. The possessiveness, the dirty talk, the quiet caretaking, it all worked for me.

I enjoyed the suspense thread running through the book. It kept the tension high and made it feel like more than just a romance built on longing and chemistry, as well as added in a few twists I didn't see coming. The chapter openings with glimpses of the past were a nice touch and helped deepen the emotional payoff as things unfolded. I’m definitely coming back for more time in this town.

[Sheila Schoenauer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was cute and quirky with a good bit of spice. It wasn't as spicy as I thought it was going to be. But Roman was still one kinky man. I enjoyed getting to know both him and Lola. I especially loved the little snippets at the beginning of each chapter. But I hated how she blamed herself for what happened. And I hated how she feared people finding out what she did because of it (again Roman for the swoon win!) How Mason didn't see Roman's feelings for Lola is wild. I liked the side characters (minus one. I had feelings about that one) and think they each have intriguing stories to tell. But this one? I just loved Roman and Lola, especially Roman. Lola won my heart with how she proved herself. She shouldn't have had to, especially to her parents, but she did good and became stronger because of it. Will I read more? I haven't decided yet. But I did enjoy this story.

*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review*

[Perdita The Reada · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here’s my ARC Review of “Wreck the Waves” by Alexis Grace☺️

Plot-Driven: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

This small-town second chance romance by Alexis Grace is masterfully crafted and executed ☺️ it made me laugh out loud, audibly gasp and get a bit teary-eyed! I love Lola’s wild spirit and Roman’s selflessness and together they make THE MOST PRECIOUS couple 🥹

This genre is a bit of a departure from her previous work (“Of Mine” series which I devoured! Think criminal minds and dark romance) and is SO well done. Grace writes with simple but effective prose that embraces you like a warm hug and makes reading enjoyable and fun. I like that there were some darker elements to the story that raised the stakes and created some plot twists that I didn’t expect (but loved all the same). I truly think the sky is the limit for this author and I can’t wait to see what she creates in the future! 😁

[Madisen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am one of the very lucky few who got an ARC copy of this book and i cannot be happier.

While this is much different then her Of Mine Series, i find it to be a good break. Of Mine is a darker romance with pretty hard topics in them where as Wreck the Waves, while it has mentions (flashbacks) of not lovely things, its not the entire theme of the book. Romantic suspense is a really fun genre and she was able to build her book well into it.

Lola - for one was super relatable. The relationship she has with her parents is something i think a lot of people have experienced or seen. Her own brand of chaos was endearing.

Roman - age gap/best friend romances are hard. There is a careful dynamic there that i was concerned that Roman would fall into one of those that i couldn't stand, i am happy to report i am wrong.

Alexis Grace - while a new author - must have some amazing support because her writing is wonderful.

and no - she didn't pay me for this review.

[Kiara Sepulveda · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨️ARC Review✨️

🌶 Rating: 2.25/5

Release date: January 3, 2026

I am such a SUCKER for small town romances and the brothers best friend trope 😩😩

Wreck the waves was so amazingly perfect and beautiful (and scary 🥲). Roman is the definition of a YEARNER. Like 6 YEARS, actually SINCE THEY MET!!!!!!😭😭😭 I just love him so much. And Lola coming back to Pine Rock stronger than ever and with a dream, thats some girl power right there 😌

Ever since she came back, the tension between Roman and Lola was definitely there. I'm so glad they decided to break and just go for it, they were definitely keeping me on my toes 😅

And also, I definitely want to make these apple fries now. They had my mouth watering like Lola's dad everytime I read about it 🤤🤤 (thank you for the recipe Alexis 🥰)

Wreck The Waves releases next year on January 3rd!!!! ❤️

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the Of Mine trilogy, so I was excited to read this. Though it’s not dark, there are darker themes. Lola, unable to shake off her wild child days with her family and small-town community, resonated so strongly. I got angry at her family for not believing in her and her coffee shop dream. There was a piece in the book when she’s talking to her Dad, and he asks her why she never said about her degree. Her reply made me cry a little.
Roman was hot 🥵🔥🥵🔥🥵 and total relationship goals, plus that commanding tone….omg, my thighs clenched. But the trust he had in Lola, wow 🥹🥹🥹
This was full of twists and turns that I didn’t guess. The ending hurt, mainly because I didn’t want to leave Pine Rock! I need more stories, Mase, Cooper, Jarred, please write them. There’s so much more I need to know.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Samantha Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have read Alexis work before you will know her for her dark romance. This isn't a dark romance it's a small town romance BUT it is sooooo worth the read. Firstly my heart goes out to Lola for what she went threw it's heartbreaking but it happens in real life more than we like to admit. This is an amazing read the main character are fantastic and the side characters are so good and remberable and make such an impact. The plot is brilliant and amazing pacing which makes you not want to put this book down and but the end it makes you feel like your getting a warm hug in a blanket. Don't get me wrong it's not smooth sailing threw the book for Lola and Roman which has you hooked. Can Not wait for book 2

[Katrine Ladefoged · Rating 5 out of 5]

In my eyes Alexis can do no wrong 😍 this is such a great book - not as dark as the Of Mine series but still comes with some dark topics so beware of your mental health ❤️
I felt all the emotions and I ugly cried sooo many times in this book (both from sadness and happiness)
The twist and turns that Alexis writes is 🤌🏼
In this book you follow Lola, the wild child reformed 😉 and Roman, the brothers best friend that kinda gives cowboy vibes who saves Lola time and time again ✨ I loooove the banter between the main characters but also just between a lot of the characters in the book
It’s small town, kinda second chance, brothers best friend in all the best ways✨

At last… the shirt BROKE me - IYKYK