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I Love Him Like Home
Ivy
I want the secure kind of love—the comforting kind that means my heart found shelter after a deep winter of loneliness. A love that can only be found when my home becomes a person and not a place.
I’m a ballerina, and I danced my way from the small, New England town of Birch Borough to the stages of New York City. Now, I’m back home, running my own dance studio. It’s the perfect life in the perfect place, except for my memories of him … the man who got away. Years ago, I ran into Jace, and my connection with the boxer was instantaneous. And then he disappeared, and for eight lonely years I’ve wondered if what we shared that one Christmas night was only a dream. When his daughter joins my dance studio, Jace and I collide again. But will a holiday miracle be enough to restore our fated connection?
Jace
I met a Christmas angel one night on an ice-skating rink, and then I let her get away when grief stole my heart and drove me to run. But now I have a daughter who loves to dance, and I want her to spend the holidays with family. So we’re back in Birch Borough, and the one woman I never thought I’d see again is her dance teacher. Despite the past and my grumpy demeanor, there’s still a spark between us, and I almost feel … hope. The only We’re moving to Florida on Christmas Eve.
If anyone besides my daughter can bring me back to life, it’s Ivy. But the clock is ticking. Will there be enough time to restore our missed connection before the Christmas magic fades away forever?
I Love Him Like Home is a sweet, swoony, small-town, closed door, contemporary romance with lots of heat but none of the spice (except ginger). Full of the coziness of the winter season, it’s the third in a series of standalone romances set in the fictional New England town of Birch Borough.
I want the secure kind of love—the comforting kind that means my heart found shelter after a deep winter of loneliness. A love that can only be found when my home becomes a person and not a place.
I’m a ballerina, and I danced my way from the small, New England town of Birch Borough to the stages of New York City. Now, I’m back home, running my own dance studio. It’s the perfect life in the perfect place, except for my memories of him … the man who got away. Years ago, I ran into Jace, and my connection with the boxer was instantaneous. And then he disappeared, and for eight lonely years I’ve wondered if what we shared that one Christmas night was only a dream. When his daughter joins my dance studio, Jace and I collide again. But will a holiday miracle be enough to restore our fated connection?
Jace
I met a Christmas angel one night on an ice-skating rink, and then I let her get away when grief stole my heart and drove me to run. But now I have a daughter who loves to dance, and I want her to spend the holidays with family. So we’re back in Birch Borough, and the one woman I never thought I’d see again is her dance teacher. Despite the past and my grumpy demeanor, there’s still a spark between us, and I almost feel … hope. The only We’re moving to Florida on Christmas Eve.
If anyone besides my daughter can bring me back to life, it’s Ivy. But the clock is ticking. Will there be enough time to restore our missed connection before the Christmas magic fades away forever?
I Love Him Like Home is a sweet, swoony, small-town, closed door, contemporary romance with lots of heat but none of the spice (except ginger). Full of the coziness of the winter season, it’s the third in a series of standalone romances set in the fictional New England town of Birch Borough.
414 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 5, 2025
3 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Sara North
3 books17 followersSara North is a New England native who often dreams of Paris. While books held her heart first, Sara’s training included writing and story development for both film and television scripts and fueled her desire to create with heart.
With a passion to cheer on creatives and writers across art forms and industries, Sara recognizes the power of stories to bring healing, hope, and happiness. When she’s not writing, her loves include 90s rom-coms, Old Hollywood films, Hallmark Christmas movies, beloved sitcoms, music to match her mood, café hopping, baking, and celebrating all things fall.
With a passion to cheer on creatives and writers across art forms and industries, Sara recognizes the power of stories to bring healing, hope, and happiness. When she’s not writing, her loves include 90s rom-coms, Old Hollywood films, Hallmark Christmas movies, beloved sitcoms, music to match her mood, café hopping, baking, and celebrating all things fall.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 8, 2025
This is why I hate 2nd chance tropes -
In a nutshell, same old trope/plot that has been done to death for years and years. Wake me up if ever things change up.
In a nutshell, same old trope/plot that has been done to death for years and years. Wake me up if ever things change up.
January 16, 2026
"𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘯...𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘴 𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴. 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘧 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘪𝘹 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘭𝘢𝘸, 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯. 𝘕𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘨𝘰. 𝘐𝘧 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯, 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘵."
I'm so sad that I'm out of Sara's books now. 😭 It was so hard to put this one down, but at the same time I didn't want it to end!
The winter theme was so perfect for right now, and made it so cozy and enjoyable. I'm so happy that we're getting side character's love stories! Ivy was my favorite from book one. 🩷
I connected with Ivy so much. And the timing of reading her story couldn't have been more perfect. Her struggles with life were understandable, and her overpowering it all was so encouraging. Her love story with Jace was one of the sweetest I've read. 🩷 A true, strong love that never stopped - even 8 years later.
Sara's books full me with so much joy and happiness, and I just want everyone to read them! And I have no choice now, I'm going to have to get my hands on a physical copy for my personal library. 😅
If you enjoy a sweet, no spice contemporary romance, I highly recommend this whole series!
*I received an e-ARC copy, all opinions are my own
I'm so sad that I'm out of Sara's books now. 😭 It was so hard to put this one down, but at the same time I didn't want it to end!
The winter theme was so perfect for right now, and made it so cozy and enjoyable. I'm so happy that we're getting side character's love stories! Ivy was my favorite from book one. 🩷
I connected with Ivy so much. And the timing of reading her story couldn't have been more perfect. Her struggles with life were understandable, and her overpowering it all was so encouraging. Her love story with Jace was one of the sweetest I've read. 🩷 A true, strong love that never stopped - even 8 years later.
Sara's books full me with so much joy and happiness, and I just want everyone to read them! And I have no choice now, I'm going to have to get my hands on a physical copy for my personal library. 😅
If you enjoy a sweet, no spice contemporary romance, I highly recommend this whole series!
*I received an e-ARC copy, all opinions are my own
November 28, 2025
There is just something about Sara North's books that are just to... perfectly cozy! This one is no exception, and the holiday magic only makes it feel even more so. Right from their initial interactions, I just loved the chemistry between Ivy and Jace. There was just something so sweet and tender about them that felt like home right from the start... but that all came to an end when he stood her up on what would have been their second date. When he returns years later, he feels like a completely different person, and when we learn all that he has endured in that time apart (and why he never made it to meet her)... well, it just made me so glad to see him get that second chance at a happily ever after with Ivy. Their story took me on a roller coaster of emotions... and I absolutely loved every single minute. If you're looking for cozy holiday romance that will make you swoon, this is one not to be missed.
I Love Him Like Home is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is the third book in the Love in Birch Borough series. While those who have read the previous books will enjoy seeing some familiar characters, this could definitely be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
I Love Him Like Home is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is the third book in the Love in Birch Borough series. While those who have read the previous books will enjoy seeing some familiar characters, this could definitely be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
December 31, 2025
My first Sara North book but definitely not my last!
This Christmas contemporary romance was achingly sweet. Full of heart ache & healing with a sweet female friend group, meddlesome small town shenanigans, and all the magic of Christmas.
Ivy and Jace were dears. As was Emmy. And also Resin. Basically, I loved them all, haha. And I teared up several times. Second chances & missed connections that turn into miracles do that to me. 🥹
This Christmas contemporary romance was achingly sweet. Full of heart ache & healing with a sweet female friend group, meddlesome small town shenanigans, and all the magic of Christmas.
Ivy and Jace were dears. As was Emmy. And also Resin. Basically, I loved them all, haha. And I teared up several times. Second chances & missed connections that turn into miracles do that to me. 🥹
December 6, 2025
I LOVE HIM LIKE HOME is the third book in Sara North’s Birch Borough series and dare I say it is her best yet! While I enjoyed the prior installments in this universe, Sara’s writing continues to improve and her character development and story structure were much stronger in Ivy and Jace’s book.
Things I adored about I LOVE HIM LIKE HOME:
• A ballerina FMC (who now teaches dance in her hometown)
• A tattooed, single dad with glasses as the MMC
• Prior missed connections and second chances
• Christmas and beautiful wintery scenes set in a small town in New England
• An adorable little girl, dog, and a host of other characters that drove home the found family aspect of the story. Gladys and her meddling ways will always shine in this series.
• Clean romance that never lacks in feel good swoony moments (like Ivy and Jace sledding or dancing together).
• References to one of my favorite movies of all time- ‘While You Were Sleeping’
While I still struggle with the overabundance of descriptions in these books that bog down the pacing and takes away from the overall flow of the novel, I do enjoy the characters and town Sara has created and look forward to reading the final book in the Birch Borough series whenever it comes out. Thank you Sara for the ARC in return for an honest review of I LOVE HIM LIKE HOME.
P.S.- Can we take a moment to talk about how perfect this book cover is? It’s colors and design are stunning and showcases exactly who these characters are! So well done.
Things I adored about I LOVE HIM LIKE HOME:
• A ballerina FMC (who now teaches dance in her hometown)
• A tattooed, single dad with glasses as the MMC
• Prior missed connections and second chances
• Christmas and beautiful wintery scenes set in a small town in New England
• An adorable little girl, dog, and a host of other characters that drove home the found family aspect of the story. Gladys and her meddling ways will always shine in this series.
• Clean romance that never lacks in feel good swoony moments (like Ivy and Jace sledding or dancing together).
• References to one of my favorite movies of all time- ‘While You Were Sleeping’
While I still struggle with the overabundance of descriptions in these books that bog down the pacing and takes away from the overall flow of the novel, I do enjoy the characters and town Sara has created and look forward to reading the final book in the Birch Borough series whenever it comes out. Thank you Sara for the ARC in return for an honest review of I LOVE HIM LIKE HOME.
P.S.- Can we take a moment to talk about how perfect this book cover is? It’s colors and design are stunning and showcases exactly who these characters are! So well done.
December 6, 2025
I LOVE HIM Like Home
(Love in Birch Borough #3)
by: @authorsaranorth
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~Despite the past and my grumpy demeanor, there’s still a spark between us, and I almost feel ... hope. But the clock is ticking…
-My friends, if you have not read a dear story in the Birch Borough Series by lovely Sara North, you simply must.. Her dear stories are beautifully weaved with such love and heart. It’s like drinking a delightful cup of hot chocolate. It melts the inside of the heart with such goodness and joy! I LOVE HIM Like Home, Is no exception! Oh how I loved coming back to this dear small-town city, a place where closeness and love resides with endearing characters. Reading this story felt like a warm hug encircling me, as I watched dear characters, who began with a once deep connection years ago, collides again -years later beautifully opens the possibility of rediscovering what once was. I loved that love and hope plays such a huge role. While there is grief simmering , its love that comforts, rebuilds trust, heals emotional wounds, and offers a beautiful real sense of home and belonging. Themes of belonging, healing, identity, hope, and building a future together are beautifully weaved within the pages. It is worth the dear read!🩷📚🎄
“Some people are worth the glimmer of what’s
beneath, not because it represents their potential, but because that glimmer is indicative of who they really are.”
•Content: some biblical words used in passing. Grief, loss, loneliness, death of a loved one (off page-mentioned on page), accident, kisses only!
“No matter what happens in this life, you will always change my heartbeat.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Sometimes, the things in which we find the most pain also have a way of giving us the most joy.”
#ilovehimlikehome
“I want the secure kind of love — the comforting kind that means my heart found shelter after a deep winter of loneliness.”
#authorsaranorth
#loveinbirchboroughseries
“No matter what happens in this life, you will always change my heartbeat.”
#allaboutthebestreads
(Love in Birch Borough #3)
by: @authorsaranorth
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~Despite the past and my grumpy demeanor, there’s still a spark between us, and I almost feel ... hope. But the clock is ticking…
-My friends, if you have not read a dear story in the Birch Borough Series by lovely Sara North, you simply must.. Her dear stories are beautifully weaved with such love and heart. It’s like drinking a delightful cup of hot chocolate. It melts the inside of the heart with such goodness and joy! I LOVE HIM Like Home, Is no exception! Oh how I loved coming back to this dear small-town city, a place where closeness and love resides with endearing characters. Reading this story felt like a warm hug encircling me, as I watched dear characters, who began with a once deep connection years ago, collides again -years later beautifully opens the possibility of rediscovering what once was. I loved that love and hope plays such a huge role. While there is grief simmering , its love that comforts, rebuilds trust, heals emotional wounds, and offers a beautiful real sense of home and belonging. Themes of belonging, healing, identity, hope, and building a future together are beautifully weaved within the pages. It is worth the dear read!🩷📚🎄
“Some people are worth the glimmer of what’s
beneath, not because it represents their potential, but because that glimmer is indicative of who they really are.”
•Content: some biblical words used in passing. Grief, loss, loneliness, death of a loved one (off page-mentioned on page), accident, kisses only!
“No matter what happens in this life, you will always change my heartbeat.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Sometimes, the things in which we find the most pain also have a way of giving us the most joy.”
#ilovehimlikehome
“I want the secure kind of love — the comforting kind that means my heart found shelter after a deep winter of loneliness.”
#authorsaranorth
#loveinbirchboroughseries
“No matter what happens in this life, you will always change my heartbeat.”
#allaboutthebestreads
November 26, 2025
Very sweet - rtc
November 17, 2025
Another swoony RomCom from Sara North! ILHLH takes place in Birch Borrow (a Stars Hollow esque town) during the Christmas season.
This was my second book by Sara North, and I enjoyed it. (I missed the first book in the series, so I will have to remedy that!) In the beginning, the story really kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen with Jace and Ivy. The story progresses through all the festivities of the holiday season, complete with ice skating, all the Christmas treats, family dinners, and and holiday dance performance. There are several *very cheesy* romantic moments that were a little over the top for me, but if that's your taste, you will LOVE this story. Overall, it was a sweet read. (No spice).
Thank you to the author for this ARC!? The above opinions are completely my own! ❤️
This was my second book by Sara North, and I enjoyed it. (I missed the first book in the series, so I will have to remedy that!) In the beginning, the story really kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen with Jace and Ivy. The story progresses through all the festivities of the holiday season, complete with ice skating, all the Christmas treats, family dinners, and and holiday dance performance. There are several *very cheesy* romantic moments that were a little over the top for me, but if that's your taste, you will LOVE this story. Overall, it was a sweet read. (No spice).
Thank you to the author for this ARC!? The above opinions are completely my own! ❤️
December 5, 2025
4.8/5
Genre: Closed Door Romance
🚨TW: loss of love one, accident, mentions of grief
Favourite Moments
🩰 They first met
🥊 When they meet again (can’t spoil it)
🩰 Moments with Emmy and Resin the dog
🥊 Them opening up to each other.
🩰 Meddling towns’ people.
🥊 Their nicknames for each other.
🩰 The ice-skating rink. (can’t spoil it)
🥊 Him being honest with her about how he feels and his insecurities.
🩰 Them asking permission before touching each other. (can’t spoil it)
🥊 The Gingerbread House contest.
🩰 Family dinner
🥊 Secret Santa
🩰 Their dates
🥊 Their teasing and flirting
🩰 Their surprises to each other (can’t spoil it)
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
🥊 He never stop loving her.
���� He shows his vulnerable side to her.
🥊 He is a hopeless romantic.
🥊 He respects her and always there to help her when she needed.
🥊 His dimples (can’t help it)
🥊 He loves to read (can’t help it)
🥊 He tried his best to be a great father to his daughter.
🥊 He cares for others.
Synopsis:
Ivy
A ballet teacher who used to dance professionally and always feeling that she is not enough to be loved.
Jace
A single dad who takes care of a 5-year-old daughter. He is a boxing trainer who used to be a boxer and also he is good woodwork. He is afraid of being in love because of his experience with his ex.
The first time they met, they fell in love at first sight. They promise to meet up the next day in the ice-skating rink but he never shows up which hurt her so deeply. Nearly 8 years later, they meet again but he is not alone, he has a 5 year old daughter who loves to dance and his daughter signed up for her class. Old feelings came back and also Christmas is drawing near. Meddling town’s people trying to make the Christmas miracle happen? Will they ever be together? Will they open their hearts again? Will they ever give love a chance again? Read I Love Him Like Home to find out!!
Review:
Loving this bittersweet love story. They will really pull your heartstrings. Love that they opened up to each other, being honest with each other, encourage each other and compliment each other. He showed his vulnerable side to her and being honest with her throughout the story. Love their teasing and flirting too. They worked together to make her Christmas Ballet Production a success. They also have fun with the Christmas activities that they are having in town along with his daughter. And also, the romantic dates and surprises are just so sweetttt…and it’s seemed that whenever they meet or do it seemed that the clock will chime (can’t spoil it you will have to read to find out) and also love the moments with his daughter too. The way he tries his best to be the greatest dad for her.
Gladys and their friends and other towns people as usual help them to get together. And love that though that in that circumstances he still respected her and doesn't want to do what she doesn't want to do. Grey is such a sweet friend to her and also, she had been there for her through her ups and downs in life. Love it so much. This book made me smile, laugh, cry, swoon and also blushing at times because it’s just so romantic and beautiful. Sara has done it again. Hopefully Grey, Ivy’s best friend has her happily ever after too.
P.S Would love to work in Grey father’s bookstore and rave about books with others. Hehe…
This is the 3rd book of Love in Birch Borough series. If you haven't follow her in IG please do follow her (@authorsaranorth) She is amazing.
If you haven't read her first book and second book please do it's entitled I Love You in French. It is Sparrow's romantic love story and also the 2nd book entitled I Love A Good Challenge which is Lily's story.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @authorsaranorth for the ARC.
Can’t wait to read her next book.
You can purchase her book on Amazon and it is available in KU.
Genre: Closed Door Romance
🚨TW: loss of love one, accident, mentions of grief
Favourite Moments
🩰 They first met
🥊 When they meet again (can’t spoil it)
🩰 Moments with Emmy and Resin the dog
🥊 Them opening up to each other.
🩰 Meddling towns’ people.
🥊 Their nicknames for each other.
🩰 The ice-skating rink. (can’t spoil it)
🥊 Him being honest with her about how he feels and his insecurities.
🩰 Them asking permission before touching each other. (can’t spoil it)
🥊 The Gingerbread House contest.
🩰 Family dinner
🥊 Secret Santa
🩰 Their dates
🥊 Their teasing and flirting
🩰 Their surprises to each other (can’t spoil it)
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
🥊 He never stop loving her.
���� He shows his vulnerable side to her.
🥊 He is a hopeless romantic.
🥊 He respects her and always there to help her when she needed.
🥊 His dimples (can’t help it)
🥊 He loves to read (can’t help it)
🥊 He tried his best to be a great father to his daughter.
🥊 He cares for others.
Synopsis:
Ivy
A ballet teacher who used to dance professionally and always feeling that she is not enough to be loved.
Jace
A single dad who takes care of a 5-year-old daughter. He is a boxing trainer who used to be a boxer and also he is good woodwork. He is afraid of being in love because of his experience with his ex.
The first time they met, they fell in love at first sight. They promise to meet up the next day in the ice-skating rink but he never shows up which hurt her so deeply. Nearly 8 years later, they meet again but he is not alone, he has a 5 year old daughter who loves to dance and his daughter signed up for her class. Old feelings came back and also Christmas is drawing near. Meddling town’s people trying to make the Christmas miracle happen? Will they ever be together? Will they open their hearts again? Will they ever give love a chance again? Read I Love Him Like Home to find out!!
Review:
Loving this bittersweet love story. They will really pull your heartstrings. Love that they opened up to each other, being honest with each other, encourage each other and compliment each other. He showed his vulnerable side to her and being honest with her throughout the story. Love their teasing and flirting too. They worked together to make her Christmas Ballet Production a success. They also have fun with the Christmas activities that they are having in town along with his daughter. And also, the romantic dates and surprises are just so sweetttt…and it’s seemed that whenever they meet or do it seemed that the clock will chime (can’t spoil it you will have to read to find out) and also love the moments with his daughter too. The way he tries his best to be the greatest dad for her.
Gladys and their friends and other towns people as usual help them to get together. And love that though that in that circumstances he still respected her and doesn't want to do what she doesn't want to do. Grey is such a sweet friend to her and also, she had been there for her through her ups and downs in life. Love it so much. This book made me smile, laugh, cry, swoon and also blushing at times because it’s just so romantic and beautiful. Sara has done it again. Hopefully Grey, Ivy’s best friend has her happily ever after too.
P.S Would love to work in Grey father’s bookstore and rave about books with others. Hehe…
This is the 3rd book of Love in Birch Borough series. If you haven't follow her in IG please do follow her (@authorsaranorth) She is amazing.
If you haven't read her first book and second book please do it's entitled I Love You in French. It is Sparrow's romantic love story and also the 2nd book entitled I Love A Good Challenge which is Lily's story.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @authorsaranorth for the ARC.
Can’t wait to read her next book.
You can purchase her book on Amazon and it is available in KU.
December 27, 2025
You know the iconic line from Anne of the Island "I don't need sunburst or marble halls.", or in Jane Austen's Emma "If I loved you less I might be able to talk about it more."? That is how I feel about I Love You Like Home by Sara North.
Jace and Ivy have a serindipitous meet and fall fast for each other but then Jace disappears and breaks Ivy's heart. When years later, Jace and his cute little daughter come to spend the holidays in Ivy's cozy little town of Birch Borough, Ivy has to find out why he ghosted her years ago and decide if she can open her heart to Jace again.
This might be a strange sounding compliment but Sara North's prose is amazing! I feel like I highlighted over half the book because of all of the amazing things she wrote. She knows how to give the reader beautiful imagery and in this story it makes you ache for Jace and Ivy.
This book was so heartachingly beautiful! Sara's writing reminds me of old black and white romance movies or the old Hollywood golden era. It's sweet, swoony, and sparkly.
Top 3 Moments:
🩰The dancing scene
🩰The sleigh ride
🩰Jace and Ivy watching It's A Wonderful Life
I highly recommend picking up this book to read in this week between Christmas and New Years. It's a cozy, yet deep story that will leave you wanting more. So then you can go back and read the other two in the series! Which are beautiful in their own right! #Lily+Grahamforever!!
Jace and Ivy have a serindipitous meet and fall fast for each other but then Jace disappears and breaks Ivy's heart. When years later, Jace and his cute little daughter come to spend the holidays in Ivy's cozy little town of Birch Borough, Ivy has to find out why he ghosted her years ago and decide if she can open her heart to Jace again.
This might be a strange sounding compliment but Sara North's prose is amazing! I feel like I highlighted over half the book because of all of the amazing things she wrote. She knows how to give the reader beautiful imagery and in this story it makes you ache for Jace and Ivy.
This book was so heartachingly beautiful! Sara's writing reminds me of old black and white romance movies or the old Hollywood golden era. It's sweet, swoony, and sparkly.
Top 3 Moments:
🩰The dancing scene
🩰The sleigh ride
🩰Jace and Ivy watching It's A Wonderful Life
I highly recommend picking up this book to read in this week between Christmas and New Years. It's a cozy, yet deep story that will leave you wanting more. So then you can go back and read the other two in the series! Which are beautiful in their own right! #Lily+Grahamforever!!
January 3, 2026
Sara North writes beautiful and delightful stories. I loved everything about the night Ivy and Jace met. It was magical evening. Trusting fate for their second date, they didn’t exchange phone numbers. Unfortunate circumstances keep them apart for 8 years.
I loved their chemistry that returned immediately even if they both kept the other at arms length initially. As they had the hard conversations, I loved how they came together.
Favorite parts
-Emmy— Jace’s daughter. She was just a sweetheart
-the secret Santa
-dinner with Ivy’s family
-the nicknames
-Bear in a dance shop.
-the clock elements
Favorite Quotes:
“Enjoy the time you have with the man who’s haunted your heart from the start. Even if it’s hard.” She sighs. “Oh, my friend, don’t give up on him. Sometimes, people just need time to find the healing they need. And needing time doesn’t mean they don’t love you or want you less. Sometimes, it means they want you so much they don’t know how to handle their feelings yet.”
The warmth of Jace’s hand covers my knee through my tights, and I’m electrified. I hope he never stops reaching for me.
Maybe home has always been how we feel instead of where we are. And maybe home is actually a person.
I loved their chemistry that returned immediately even if they both kept the other at arms length initially. As they had the hard conversations, I loved how they came together.
Favorite parts
-Emmy— Jace’s daughter. She was just a sweetheart
-the secret Santa
-dinner with Ivy’s family
-the nicknames
-Bear in a dance shop.
-the clock elements
Favorite Quotes:
“Enjoy the time you have with the man who’s haunted your heart from the start. Even if it’s hard.” She sighs. “Oh, my friend, don’t give up on him. Sometimes, people just need time to find the healing they need. And needing time doesn’t mean they don’t love you or want you less. Sometimes, it means they want you so much they don’t know how to handle their feelings yet.”
The warmth of Jace’s hand covers my knee through my tights, and I’m electrified. I hope he never stops reaching for me.
Maybe home has always been how we feel instead of where we are. And maybe home is actually a person.
December 6, 2025
I Love Him Like Home is an utterly gorgeous book filled with the delights and comfort of the Christmas season! In this third installment of the Love in Birch Borough series, Sara North has written a book that speaks deeply of longing for the one special person our heart can call home and holding on to hope even when love seems lost. Jace and Ivy are the kind of characters who made their way into my heart from the very first page and now have a permanent residence there. The boxer and the ballerina? Christmas magic while learning to love again? A group of friends in a small New England town finding love and navigating life together? My heart couldn't ask for a better book!
The whimsy of Birch Borough in the winter season is a delight, and the supporting cast of characters feels like coming home to old friends. Gladys is who I aspire to be when I grow up.
North's writing is melodic and comforting, nuggets of truth and hope woven into each scene. She writes of longing and loneliness with deep emotion that often hits home and sparks tears, but through it all is a thread of hope and joy that can't be contained.
A 5-star read for the whole year. Make a cup of really good hot cocoa and revisit Birch Borough as often as you need until your heart is whole again.
The whimsy of Birch Borough in the winter season is a delight, and the supporting cast of characters feels like coming home to old friends. Gladys is who I aspire to be when I grow up.
North's writing is melodic and comforting, nuggets of truth and hope woven into each scene. She writes of longing and loneliness with deep emotion that often hits home and sparks tears, but through it all is a thread of hope and joy that can't be contained.
A 5-star read for the whole year. Make a cup of really good hot cocoa and revisit Birch Borough as often as you need until your heart is whole again.
December 12, 2025
4.5 stars ✨ rounded up for good reads!
The writing of this book was so beautiful, it almost felt poetic at times. The way the author describes every moment in such detail was mesmerizing! I found myself completely lost in the world as I read it.
This story will tug on your heart strings. Watching Jace heal from the past, and really believe he could be loved and that he deserved it, and was worthy of it was so tender. And Ivy?! Realizing her worth? And that she wasn’t someone who would fall through the cracks with the RIGHT person? Beautiful.
I loved the journey this book takes you on. There’s a lot of inner dialogue throughout the book, which I will admit at times felt a little too much, but by the end I appreciated it because of what it added to the story. You really see both of them heal and let the other in.
I also adored the ballet aspect of this. Growing up a dancer, the way Sara described certain aspects of it took me right back to my dance studio and just made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
This was my first book by Sara and I can promise you it won’t be the last!
The writing of this book was so beautiful, it almost felt poetic at times. The way the author describes every moment in such detail was mesmerizing! I found myself completely lost in the world as I read it.
This story will tug on your heart strings. Watching Jace heal from the past, and really believe he could be loved and that he deserved it, and was worthy of it was so tender. And Ivy?! Realizing her worth? And that she wasn’t someone who would fall through the cracks with the RIGHT person? Beautiful.
I loved the journey this book takes you on. There’s a lot of inner dialogue throughout the book, which I will admit at times felt a little too much, but by the end I appreciated it because of what it added to the story. You really see both of them heal and let the other in.
I also adored the ballet aspect of this. Growing up a dancer, the way Sara described certain aspects of it took me right back to my dance studio and just made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
This was my first book by Sara and I can promise you it won’t be the last!
December 12, 2025
This book was achingly beautiful and I mean that in the best way. The romance was perfect, cute moments, funny moments, but what really stood out was the healing journey through grief. It brought tears to my eyes and I finished the book with a smile.
Jace and Ivy have a real meet cute and then bond quickly. Before they can have a real date, life pulls them apart and they don’t see each other for 8 years. Now Ivy is lonely and Jace is closed off. When they finally meet again can they rebuild the bridges that were burned?
Highlights:
That first day together 🥰
Sledding!
The family dinners 😂❤️
I love Ivy for being loving and kind. I love that she follows her dreams. I love her compassion.
I love Jace for being a gentle giant with depth. I love how good he is with kids.
“Santa Claus himself could come walking into the room, and I wouldn’t be able to tear my eyes from the gorgeous man next to me.”
THis was an ARC, all thoughts are my own.
Jace and Ivy have a real meet cute and then bond quickly. Before they can have a real date, life pulls them apart and they don’t see each other for 8 years. Now Ivy is lonely and Jace is closed off. When they finally meet again can they rebuild the bridges that were burned?
Highlights:
That first day together 🥰
Sledding!
The family dinners 😂❤️
I love Ivy for being loving and kind. I love that she follows her dreams. I love her compassion.
I love Jace for being a gentle giant with depth. I love how good he is with kids.
“Santa Claus himself could come walking into the room, and I wouldn’t be able to tear my eyes from the gorgeous man next to me.”
THis was an ARC, all thoughts are my own.
December 5, 2025
I was absolutely delighted with my first visit to Birch Borough!
This story is filled with emotions that I couldn’t help but feel too.
The writing: poetic
The circumstances: heartbreaking
The love: tender
The reconnection: beautiful
Jace and Ivy had a magical connection that wouldn’t let go even though years and circumstances kept them apart.
Their story is filled with the absolute best tension, wanting to reconnect but holding back from more heartbreak. Their love ever growing, add in the magic of Christmas in a small town, an adorable daughter, and some meddling townsfolk and you’ve got a cozy and magical story of healing and hope.
Thank you to Sara North for the copy. All opinions are my own.
This story is filled with emotions that I couldn’t help but feel too.
The writing: poetic
The circumstances: heartbreaking
The love: tender
The reconnection: beautiful
Jace and Ivy had a magical connection that wouldn’t let go even though years and circumstances kept them apart.
Their story is filled with the absolute best tension, wanting to reconnect but holding back from more heartbreak. Their love ever growing, add in the magic of Christmas in a small town, an adorable daughter, and some meddling townsfolk and you’ve got a cozy and magical story of healing and hope.
Thank you to Sara North for the copy. All opinions are my own.
December 5, 2025
We are back in Birch Borough and all my Christmas dreams are coming true. Guys, I had the privilege of beta reading this beautiful story. This was my first ever beta read and I was so honored. I love this town and I love Sara and her writing.
We get Ivy’s story, and let me tell you it is magical. She and Jace are so beautiful together. This story caught me by surprise. There was so much depth to these two and I’m not going to give too much away, but this was the coziest read.
Let me just tell you Jace is the biggest softie ever. Even when he seems a bit grumpy, he has this heart that is mush.
All of my Christmas dreams came true and I felt like I was in a Hallmark snow globe mixed up in a Gilmore Girls episode. I loved every minute of it.
So guys grab your hot cocoa, your chai, your peppermint latte, whatever gets you in that Christmas spirit; and cozy up with this incredibly sweet book!
CW: closed door (kisses only), d**th of a family member, divorce.
We get Ivy’s story, and let me tell you it is magical. She and Jace are so beautiful together. This story caught me by surprise. There was so much depth to these two and I’m not going to give too much away, but this was the coziest read.
Let me just tell you Jace is the biggest softie ever. Even when he seems a bit grumpy, he has this heart that is mush.
All of my Christmas dreams came true and I felt like I was in a Hallmark snow globe mixed up in a Gilmore Girls episode. I loved every minute of it.
So guys grab your hot cocoa, your chai, your peppermint latte, whatever gets you in that Christmas spirit; and cozy up with this incredibly sweet book!
CW: closed door (kisses only), d**th of a family member, divorce.
December 16, 2025
This was a beautiful book about letting go of fear and holding tight to the love right in front of you.
Asa former ballet dancer, I loved Ivy's passion for her studio, students, and craft. I also loved that Jace was willing to step into that world for his daughter and then for Ivy.
Filled with holiday cheer and supportive family and friends, this is a wonderful holiday read to bring joy and beauty to your Christmas!
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CW: loss of a sibling (off page) but discussed on page
Asa former ballet dancer, I loved Ivy's passion for her studio, students, and craft. I also loved that Jace was willing to step into that world for his daughter and then for Ivy.
Filled with holiday cheer and supportive family and friends, this is a wonderful holiday read to bring joy and beauty to your Christmas!
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CW: loss of a sibling (off page) but discussed on page
December 9, 2025
Picture this…holding a warm mug of hot cocoa while curled up under the softest blanket, on the coziest couch, in front a crackling fire, while snowflakes gently fall outside your window. That’s what this book feels like:)
Sara’s writing is beautiful, and this story is magical. 100% the perfect winter read:)
Sara’s writing is beautiful, and this story is magical. 100% the perfect winter read:)
December 6, 2025
Jace & Ivy
Absolutely loved this one! This is a such a heartbreaking, but absolutely beautiful second chance. The imagery in this book is nothing but lovely! Jace and Ivy have such a well deserved happily ever after. The world of Birch Borough is lovely place to be.
Absolutely loved this one! This is a such a heartbreaking, but absolutely beautiful second chance. The imagery in this book is nothing but lovely! Jace and Ivy have such a well deserved happily ever after. The world of Birch Borough is lovely place to be.
December 12, 2025
3.25⭐️
November 23, 2025
I love this series!! and this one is no exception. the single dad trope is possibly one of my favorites and I absolutely adored Emmy and Jace! a boxer and a ballerina was a fun change up of MCs. I loved the nickname he had for her and the connection they possessed and fought and melded into. such a sweet and emotional read.
I received an eARC and this is my honest review.
I received an eARC and this is my honest review.
December 14, 2025
Rating 4.75⭐️
Tropes:
🩰 Second First Meeting
🥊 Instant Connection
🩰 Found Family
🥊 Single Dad
🩰 Small Town
🥊 Ballerina x Boxer
Review:
I love this book so much! I think it might be my favorite in the whole series 🤭
Jace and Ivy’s story is one that stood the test of time, even though they grew into different people during their time apart, they are still meant for each other and that was clear in their care for one another even though heartbreak and loss 🥹❤️🩹
I’ll stop here before I spoil anything 😅 please give Sara’s books a chance! You won’t regret it I promise 🫶
***I have received this book as an arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinion are my own***
Tropes:
🩰 Second First Meeting
🥊 Instant Connection
🩰 Found Family
🥊 Single Dad
🩰 Small Town
🥊 Ballerina x Boxer
Review:
I love this book so much! I think it might be my favorite in the whole series 🤭
Jace and Ivy’s story is one that stood the test of time, even though they grew into different people during their time apart, they are still meant for each other and that was clear in their care for one another even though heartbreak and loss 🥹❤️🩹
I’ll stop here before I spoil anything 😅 please give Sara’s books a chance! You won’t regret it I promise 🫶
***I have received this book as an arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinion are my own***
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