Willowbrook Wishes

by Kristen Reads

Can a wish tear down walls around a heart?

In the summer of 1998, Lily Harper drifts into Willowbrook, Ohio, her heart guarded by old scars and a plan to leave as soon as she’s done rebranding the town’s beloved county fair. But Ethan Calloway, the gruff bookstore owner protecting his late father’s legacy, turns her quick exit into a heated clash of wills. Their bickering sparks something deeper, kindled by the Wishing Tree’s hopeful ribbons and starlit summer nights.

As 90s pop songs blast from boomboxes and kids race through the fairgrounds, Willowbrook’s loyal friends weave a community that tugs at Lily’s defenses. Can she trust a town—and a love—worth staying for?

Perfect for fans of Emily Henry and Abby Jimenez, Willowbrook Wishes blends 90s nostalgia with heartwarming, enemies-to-lovers romance in a charming small town. This is Book One in the Willowbrook series—fall into Willowbrook’s glow today.

420 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication May 5, 2026

Reviews

[Liya Abebe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willowbrook Wishes. Oh my goodness. This book has surprised me with how deeply I connected with the characters. Lily Harper is such a relatable main character. Her guarded, independent vibe clearly shows how hurt she was by her past. She plastered a smile on her face with a clipboard in hand everyday without letting anyone noticing what was really behind it. I love how she comes to Willowbrook with a plan and her walls fully up but, slowly gets cracked by the town, and its people.

Ethan Calloway. This man is broken, grumpy, and grieving. Ever since Lily came into his bookstore and turned it upside down she also found a way to his heart. He and Lily are full of tension, and banter. But underneath that was the vulnerability that only she could bring out.
Carol is like the mother everyone needs. She is honestly stole the spotlight of entire book and I love her for it.!

This book broke me into pieces then put me back together. I honestly didnt think l'd love it so much but here we are. I can't wait for everyone to read it on 5/5/26!


✨strangers to lovers
✨grumpy x sunshine found family small town
✨he falls first
✨SLOW BURN (first kiss was 82% into the book)
✨90s nostalgia

Quotes~
“Maybe being left behind wouldn’t be the worst thing. Not if it was here. Not if it was with him.

“Honey, people don’t hand you the heaviest parts of themselves unless they’re hoping you’ll help carry them.

[Jessie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a super cute, sweet, and cozy small town romance set in the 90s! Lily is a bubbly, energetic event planner who waltzes into the small town of Willowbrook to help revitalize their annual Summerfest. Ethan is a loyal, somewhat grumpy bookstore owner who is resistant to change. When she ends up using part of his bookshop for her planning they are forced to work together.

The set up is simple but the MCs have so much depth.
Lily grew up in foster care and struggles with finding a sense of belonging and community, hence her job of bouncing from place to place. Ethan is still struggling with the loss of his dad. He’s taken over his dad’s bookshop but doesn’t know if it’s what he really wants to do and he’s having a hard time finding any real joy. As Ethan gives Lily a crash course on the small town of Willowbrook she falls in love with this small town that seems to genuinely love and support each other while bringing joy and excitement to Ethan’s mundane day to day routine. As they become friends who start falling for each other it’s beautiful to see how each one helpsa heal the other. 🥹

I adored this small town found family so much!!! The prom boutique was so so sweet and warmed my heart! And as an 80s baby I adored all the 90s nostalgia!

This book is perfect for you if you love:
💕 Small town romance
💕 Grumpy/Sunshine
💕 Found Family
💕 90’s Nostalgia
💕 Closed door romance

[Dani Lindgren · Rating 4 out of 5]

UTTERLY ADORABLE. If you're looking for a cosy, small town romance that will have you feeling all the feels then Willowbrook Wishes is the perfect book for you. Lily and Ethan are two differently damaged individuals that just needs that spark in their life, and to really start living. Thrown together when they really don't want to be, an unlikely friendship blooms, turning into a slow burn, and then the sweetest romance with so much yearning, it had my heart fluttering. The full cast of characters is just perfection, each one adding a little bit of magic and bringing the small town vibes and found family fully to life - two of my favourite tropes. The slow burn between Lily and Ethan was everything, and the ending had me giggling like mad with all the love and cuteness. This is honestly such a sweet, cosy read that's so enjoyable. I absolutely loved it.

[Bris.reads.and.recs · Rating 5 out of 5]

No spice. No problem.

If you love a cozy romance with heart, Willowbrook Wishes delivers. Set against a nostalgic 90s backdrop, this heartfelt small-town romance leans into everything readers love about the genre. With its enemies-to-lovers tension, close-knit community, and found family dynamics, the story feels like a warm hug you didn’t know you needed.

But what truly sets this book apart is its focus on connection.

Rather than relying on dramatic twists or high-stakes conflict, the story unfolds through quiet moments, shared history, and emotional growth that's grounded in a simpler time filled with nostalgia and heart, making the small-town setting feel alive, shaped by local traditions, familiar hangout spots, and the kind of neighbors who know your past but choose to love you anyway.

The characters are imperfect, layered, and relatable. Watching their guarded edges slowly soften is both satisfying and believable. But their journey isn’t just about romance—it’s about healing and learning to let others in, making the family aspect especially touching, and showing how support can come from unexpected places and how chosen connections can be just as powerful as blood ties.

Every detail feels intentional, from the setting to the emotional beats. The story celebrates the beauty of ordinary moments and reminds us that love doesn’t have to be flashy to be meaningful. It’s about showing up, being seen, and being accepted fully—scars, flaws, and all.

Overall, Willowbrook Wishes is a gentle, uplifting read that prioritizes heart over heat, leaving you with a sense of warmth long after you turn the final page, which makes it perfect for readers who love nostalgic vibes, character-driven romance, and stories that feel real, genuine, and achingly familiar.

[Cari Azbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willowbrook is a cute little town in Ohio who is in need of an events coordinator to come in and save their summer festival. Lily is given this contract and upon entering the city limits, she quite literally runs into Ethan, our depressed and brooding MMC. Lily comes in with her glitter and sunshine and turns Ethan’s world upside down. He resists her pull as long as he can but it’s a losing battle. The only hiccup, she’s leaving in three months when Summerfest is over.

This book had me from the word go. It’s a small town romance that really hits home for me in many ways. It’s about a sleepy little town that reminds me a lot of the town and community I grew up in. It’s based around the 90s with a ton of nostalgia and mentions of 90s music, which is when I was a teenager too. This book was just so personable for me. I was able to relate to it in so many ways. Ethan is adorable. His friend group is rock solid. Even the old farmer will have you in your feels. I absolutely ate this up and loved it to the very last page. Congratulations to Kristen Reads on her debut book and I hope to see more come from her and this beautiful town of Willowbrook.

I received an eARC and I am leaving this review upon completion.

[Arc review booklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.85✨I loved this book if you’re looking for a cosy, festive, romantic and funny book this is the book for you!! Highly recommend
Lily a city girl how has always felt like an outsider which she pretty much always has been growing up in a foster care home. When she’s makes her way to WIllowBrook and bumps into a car giving it a little scratch and for her to be told she’s doesn’t look likes she’s belongs stings more than she’s lets on. Lily has come to work on the WillowBrook Fair they host every year that seems to be lacking, we her bright idea that the town aren’t sure about but with Lily confidence she’s has the mostly eating out of her hands in no time.

Ethan first meet Lily when she’s bumped into his truck which belonged to his deceased dad so when just a little scratch appeared he loses it and insults her. Ethan does everything to ensure his mum is looked after, after his father death. Ethan purpose in life seems to be fixes everyone’s problems from a bike chain, changing a lightbulb to straighten a post box. I love how even though he pushes people away everyone is still here for him and makes he join in also inviting him to game night even though he didn’t want to go he did.

What I really enjoyed about this book is that it is based around two characters who both have a traumatic past and how that brings them closer, their understanding of each other. Not just their strengths but their weaknesses as well, they are both attractive to each other. Not just because of looks but because they seem something that no one else does lingering pain.

My favourite line is when Ethan says “Everyone helps when it matters.”
Meaning this small town helps each other always even when they have their own problems going on. I lived all the side characters they were all just amazing 🤩

Thank you so much Kristen for the arc 🥹

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willowbrook Wishes is a charming debut that delivers a dreamy small-town romance filled with heart, tradition, and community.

Set in the close-knit town of Willowbrook, Ohio, the story brings its setting to life through meaningful traditions and well-developed side characters who truly feel like part of the fabric of the town. Kristen Reads does a wonderful job creating a place that feels warm, welcoming, and deeply rooted in connection.

Lily arrives in Willowbrook to help rebrand the town’s summer fair into a destination event that can support local programs. As a former foster child, fitting in and feeling wanted by the town means everything to her, which adds emotional depth to her character and motivations. Her optimism and determination contrast beautifully with Ethan, the reserved bookstore owner still grieving the loss of his father. Their relationship unfolds at a believable pace, shaped by shared vulnerability and growth.

I especially enjoyed the focus on community, from the summer fair to Ethan’s struggle to keep his father’s bookstore afloat. The author also weaves in additional life events that feel heartfelt and natural, strengthening the emotional pull of the story. Willowbrook is the kind of town you can’t help but wish you grew up in.

My only minor critique is that a few descriptive phrases felt repetitive at times, but this didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment.

Overall, Willowbrook Wishes is a warm, engaging read that left me invested in both the characters and their lives. Fans of small-town romances with strong emotional themes will find a lot to love here, and I’m excited to see what Kristen Reads writes next.

[Brittany Strehlow · Rating 4 out of 5]

How do I get magically transported to Willowbrook ASAP?! What a dream! The town was a delight with the perfect side characters. The loving matriarchs with Carol and Ethan’s mom. Lynn. The Durbins. Kayla and Jason. The most perfect friend group! What I wouldn’t give to join their game night or to have ice cream at Scoops with the girls. And don’t get me started on the ALL the 90’s references and nostalgia. My heart was flying with happiness as I was transported to a much more fun, carefree and simpler time. I’m immediately going to be putting on my 90’s playlist and dancing around – I think it’s what Lily would want 😊

Ethan. Ethan, Ethan, Ethan. You are just *chef’s kiss*. As someone who also lost their dad this year, I feel ya buddy. Hanging on to what you can so you don’t lose what is left of them is such a relatable feeling but it was so healing to have him go through the journey of change and growth and love. And Lily. I wish I could reach into the book and just give her a hug right at the beginning and tell her everything is going to be ok. (I know, she has to get there on her own!). I would love to see mood board from Kristen on her outfits. I was obviously picturing Clueless vibes but it’s always fun to see what the intent was!

My only note is that the descriptions did repeat quite a bit so maybe just a quick review (I know this was an advanced copy so there is time!) which was minorly distracting but overall I loved the story and the characters!

I think I saw this was a series and I SURE HOPE SO! Please give us more Willowbrook! Maybe some Rachel and Ben? Or give Maggie and Ian someone?! I don’t care, just more!

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars.

This book is ripe with potential in my eyes but fails to meet the mark for me in a few aspects.

1. This book was filled with fluff and added side moments/characters. I assume it was written this way to introduce us to the potential next characters in a book, but it drug out insanely long for me. It took me about 70% of the book to finally *get into it* which is way too long.

2. I understand this is a no-spice romance, but it also took too long for the couple to finally kiss. This is obviously a personal preference, and it was a slow burn, but it took 82% of the book for them to finally even kiss each other for the first time. Truly and honestly, the slowest burn I have ever read and not my speed.

3. Since the couple took so much time to get together, even with her crash course, I feel we didn't get enough time to experience them together. This is supposed to follow her in the town for three months; they get together within the last week - so we spend a majority of the book building up to this only to get 40 pages of them actually dating.

I did like the nostalgia aspect of this book, her super focus on music was annoying with it though. The small-town vibes were perfect in this book, and was true to everything I have ever known about the small towns I have lived in. Where everyone knows one another, and they grew up together to the point it is basically one big family. Everyone shows up in the community no matter what.


I did enjoy this book when I finally got into the story and wanted more for the characters, but the fact it took me so long to care really turned me off for a bit. I would read the second book and give the author another chance.

Thank you to the author for an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kristie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willowbrook Wishes by Kristen Reads is a stunning debut, and I truly hope it’s not her last. I devoured this book in just two days and immediately found myself craving more from the Willowbrook clan, stat. I’m not gonna lie it got me in my feelings and I shed a few tears but it was SOOO worth it!

Lily arrives in town with one clear mission: save the fair. But when the gruff, guarded bookstore owner starts letting his walls down, she finds herself doing the same. The banter and chemistry between Lily and Ethan are absolutely electric and impossible to resist.

Lily’s drive to succeed and to feel wanted is rooted in past trauma, those long-held wishes shape everything she does. Ethan, meanwhile, is stuck in a quiet rut, mourning the loss of his father and going through the motions of life… until Lily walks into town and turns his world completely upside down.

I loved everything about this book, from the nostalgic 90s music references to the deep sense of community and love woven throughout the town. Growing up in a small town in Tennessee, every detail felt familiar and heartfelt, and I connected with it on such a personal level.

I cannot wait for the next book (or books!) in this series, I already know they’ll be just as amazing. And fingers crossed we get Ben & Rachel next! 🤞📚✨

[joyincosythings ✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

A sweet, nostalgia-filled ode to 90s small-town living. I adored the cosy, welcoming and picturesque Willowbrook and its people.

The story is about Ethan and Lily, grumpy vs sunshine, country vs city, who have more in common than meets the eye. Can the power of the close-knit community help them overcome their seeming differences?

The writing was beautifully atmospheric. It was also very descriptive, and because of this, for me, it got a little repetitive and quite slow-paced, and I did at times find it much slower than what I'm used to, especially after the first third. However, this may not be the case for you at all; it's purely my personal experience.

What I absolutely loved was the dialogue. There were little, quiet drops of wisdom throughout. Ethan's talks with his late father broke my heart a little. But I also found myself laughing out loud every time the friend group was together. The relentless, witty back-and-forth banter between them felt natural and was absolutely hilarious. A high-stakes dinner and game night, anyone? And the losing team's very haphazard, yet successful performance? Or Lily's endless, astute nicknames for Ethan?

If you love a heartfelt small-town romance, you should be reading Willowbrook Wishes!

[Natashia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a cozy read and I devoured every second of it! The characters are so unique and yet also relatable. I wanted to be Lily’s friend instantly!

If I ever wanted to read a Hallmark movie, this fit the bill hands down. Lily is headed to Willowbrook to take on a job as a marketer for their fair in hopes of making it profitable. Along the way, she simply shines with joy and enthusiasm for the world, despite her own not-so-light upbringing.

As she attempts to bring more vendors and shows to the fair, she is paired with Ethan, the local bookstore owner, who is dealing with the loss of his father and the heavy responsibilities on his shoulders.

This grumpy-sunshine relationship is done so beautifully that I fell in love with both characters. There was so much depth to each of them and the author has a great grasp of tension, both internally and between the two main characters.

Between the small-town feel, the 90’s references, and the fair-time vibes, my nostalgia meter was topping the charts. Pull your blankets and warm mugs of tea out so you can dive into this cozy romance. I’m excited to see what comes next in the town of Willowbrook!

Thank you to the author for this Advance Reader Copy in exchange for my honest review.

[joyfulrambling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book. I went in expecting a sweet, feel-good, small-town romance, but I wasn’t prepared for how emotional it would be. It surprised me in the best way and I found myself tearing up more than once, often when I least expected it.

At its core, it’s about finding your place, being accepted for who you are, and realizing you don’t have to do life alone. Anyone who has ever felt like they were on the outside will recognize themselves in this story.

Without any spoilers, the FMC discovers the true power of friendship, community, and what it means to feel genuinely loved and that she belongs. There are several moments with a motherly character that just brought me to tears, every time. Those moments felt tender, comforting, and deeply human.

This story has so much heart but it’s also funny with the kind of witty banter between friends I love. I read it in one sitting, completely wrapped up in the world and the characters.

Thank you Kristin Reads!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Among The Bookshelves · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cozy read to wrap up the year! I loved all the vibes in this story, especially the 90s nostalgia. Every song mentioned felt like a soundtrack straight from my childhood. I could hear the music in my head while reading, which gave the book an extra layer of comfort and nostalgia 🎶🎸

What stood out most to me was the sense of community. The way people showed up for each other felt like true found family. No keeping score, no expectations. Just people caring, helping when needed, and doing what they could for one another. It was really comforting to read about connections like that.

Both main characters were genuinely sweet, and both were carrying things they needed to work through. Their love story unfolded slowly and softly, and it felt natural. Nothing rushed, just a quiet romance that fit the story perfectly.

What to expect
🎡 Slow burn romance
🤍 Cozy bookstore vibes
🎡 90s summer nostalgia
🤍 Small town charm
🎡 Found family feels
🤍 Community that cares

[Jary 💜 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willowbrook wishes gave me hallmark movie vibes and I loved it. It’s a small town, new beginnings and dealing with grief. Lily and Ethan came from 2 very different backgrounds but somehow found themselves drawn to one another. The sparks between the two was so magnetic I found myself wanting them together from the very beginning. They complimented each other in a way that mattered most, they were genuine in their feelings and understood what the other was going through without too much asking. Lily coming from Foster care and no family gained a new loving family in a small town filled with more love than she could’ve ever dreamed of and Ethan, my heart broke for him everytime he spoke of his dad, he was grieving him the best way he knew how and then here came Lily and she was EXACTLY why he needed. This book is definitely a must read for anyone who loves small town, new beginnings, friendship, slow burn tension (no spice), 90s settings, this book is for you!!

[Anne Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s 1998 and Lily cruises into Willowbrook on a mission; Plan a five-star summer fair, book a bigger gig for the fall, and keep moving up the event-planning ladder. That’s the plan until Lily, quite literally, crashes into the town’s grumpiest bachelor, Ethan.

Get ready for a struggle between tradition and innovation reminiscent of the battle between Nintendo 64 and PlayStation. Can the two co-exist in this small midwest town?

Surrounded by a charming and well-developed cast of characters, Lily and Ethan wrestle with their pasts, their ambitions, and what the future of Willowbrook will look like.

Built on anticipation instead of spice, this story would be great for a ladies night book club and safe for an airplane read. Pop in your favorite Maxwell mix-tape, dig out the buried butterfly clips, and tell your mom I said hi before breaking the binding on Willowbrook Wishes.

[Jaimie Edmunds · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willowbrook Wishes, a cozy small-town romance set in the 90s, follows Lily, a big city event planner, and Ethan, a local bookstore owner, both struggling with loss. I absolutely loved the nostalgic references and Hallmark-movie vibes. While the story started a little slow for me, I found myself more and more invested as it went on — and by the second half, I was fully pulled in.

The characters were genuinely likable and easy to root for, and the emotional payoff at the end really worked for me. I was definitely tearing up by the final chapters. 🥹

Overall, this was a heartfelt, comforting read that left me smiling and a little emotional. I really enjoyed this debut and am excited to see what this author writes next.

I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Susie (rekroceisusreads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willowbrook Wishes **Heart Eyes**

This book was so many things, a warm hug, a heartfelt tear jerker, an ode to my 90s childhood in Midwest America, a wholesome love story, and a story about various forms of grief among the struggle to find one’s self as an adult with trauma.

Willowbrook Wishes also holds many tropes that were very well done: forced proximity, no spice, small town romance, grumpy x sunshine, cozy bookshop, found family, and slow burn to name a few.

What makes this book even more special, is the amount of heart and soul Kristen poured into this story, drawing from her own experiences and leaving us little Easter eggs throughout the characters and plot line.

Speaking of characters, Carol is the fairy godmother of my dreams. Lily and Ethan have excellent character arcs, and the gang of friends that Lily makes are so wonderful. No drama whatsoever, which was extremely refreshing.

If Willowbrook were real, I would be checking Zillow listings ASAP. I can’t wait to return once book two makes it onto the scene!!

[Kyla Talbot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willowbrook is a charming little town where neighbors are family, kids drive their tractors to school (reminding me of my high school years and ffa week), 4-h in the summer, and everyone coming together to meet the needs of those in the town. Lily is a bright, somewhat loud, smiling individual who is locked down tight from past hurts. Ethan is a local who has suffered a major loss and is somewhat grumpy and sad. Lily has a job to do and Ethan doesn’t like change. This is a slow burn romance where there is found family and you can’t help but wish you could be a part of this little community. I absolutely loved getting to know each and every character in willowbrook. I cannot say enough good things. This will definitely be one I will recommend.

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ebook ARC . All opinions are my own.

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a nice 90’s inspired nostalgic story following Ethan and Lily. I loved the small town vibes. The 90’s music references were perfect. The emotions both high and low were easily found throughout the story. I really enjoyed Ethan’s conversations with his late father. This helped develop his character more for me helping me connect to him. Lily and Ethan’s banter and nicknames made me root for them. I loved the time they spent with their friend groups. I cried reading the part where Carol stayed and took care of Lily when she was ill. It was so heartbreaking to know this is the first time anyone ever cared enough to stay for her. This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys small town vibes, enemies to lovers, and found family. I would recommend this to anyone hoping for a light small town story.

[Kim Bunleut · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

As a fellow Ohioan, I loved this book from the very first page!

This was such a wholesome, heart-felt read. I absolutely loved Ethan and Lily, and I truly felt every emotion they went through along the way.

Lily was such a lovable character—cheerful, spirited, and full of heart. She’s driven by a deep ambition to help this small town, all while hiding behind her smiles. Her longing for belonging, for love, and for simply feeling wanted. And Ethan… bless his soul. Watching him struggle to move forward after losing someone so important to him completely tugged at my heart.

I also adored the entire town. They truly felt like the biggest support system Ethan and Lily needed!

I need another book immediately—because I need Maggie and Rachel’s stories next!

[Charliep67 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not into the Spicy scenes, not a fan of the twist and turn in the plot. This a good book for you. Or if you are and are looking for something lighter to read.

Small town ,enemies to lovers with a 90’s nostalgic flair.

This a cute small town romance that’s a heart warming read. You’ll travel to the small town of Willowbrook where you’ll meet Lily who drifts from one place to another never really having a place to belong and Ethan a grumpy bookstore owner.

You’ll follow them on there journey as the both realize that they are what the other needs. Not only this you’ll join Lily as she learns more about herself as she’s introduced what life is like in Willowbrook. You’ll also join Ethan on his own journey as he introduces Lily to Willowbrook and its residents.

[Grace Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely ADORED Willowbrook Wishes. I am a romance reader through and through there is no doubt, but there’s always some element of spice (sometimes more, sometimes less). One thing I really loved is that this book had no open door or even closed door romance. It was just kissing and that’s it. I digress, so many things to talk about. Ethan & Lily’s relationship was perfect from the get go and they just had the best chemistry ever. Ethan’s fears of change & Lily’s crazy lifestyle had me wondering the whole book: how was this going to work??? This story is just lovely and even made me shed a tear or two. So if you’re looking for a nice, spice-free but still romantic book, then this is the perfect one :)

[Sam Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly love this book. let it. I read it in less than 2 days because I just couldn't put it down. it hits all the right spots and keeps dreams alive.

I'm always a big fan when it's a sunshine girl and a grumpy guy. but this one just had so many layers to it and so many heartfelt feelings that I was crying cuz I was sad I was crying because I was happy. I felt so many emotions reading this book that I think it was very well written and shines a light on some spots that I think people don't normally see.

and the nostalgia had a '90s girl's heart going crazy. it was so perfectly mixed in.

I will highly suggest this book and I can't wait for everyone else to get to read it and fall in love with it too

[Summer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willowbrook Wishes beautifully captures ’90s nostalgia and draws you in from the very first chapters. This story is far more than a romance—it thoughtfully explores grief, past trauma, and the courage it takes to move forward. Ethan and Lily are both guarded and broken in their own ways, and as they slowly lower their defenses, they discover that healing can come from the most unexpected places…including an entire community.

This book felt like a warm hug that tugged at the deepest recesses of my heart. It’s an emotional comedy (if such a thing can exist), balancing humor and heartbreak in a way that feels genuine and earned. Willowbrook Wishes ultimately leaves you with hope—the reminder that life, love, and joy can still happen, no matter what the past holds.

[Maaike Nota · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a cute and happy book to read during the holidays. I’m an 80s baby so I have grown up in the 90/ and loved the references and being taken back to that time and how we lived back then. The music and movies and while I’m in the Netherlands, so I am not familiar with the exact American experience back then, I still draw the similarities especially being from a small town that has fairs and fun local events as well.
I was drawn into the story and Lily’s background touched me as well as Ethan’s experience with loss. It made me connect with them and I loved the people of the town as well and how they supported each other.
Great debut! Would love to read more 🤗

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved the 90s nostalgia, it took me back to a simpler time. I also really enjoyed the banter between Ethan and Lily. The enemies-to-lovers vibe was perfect and I loved once he started showing her around and making her do outrageous tasks for a city girl. It made the book even funnier. I am typically a dark romance or high spice reader, but even though this book had no spice, it was just what I needed. It broke my heart, but sewed it back together. This is a must read for anyone who reads romance! Kristen may be a debut author, but it definitely doesn't show in her writing.

Maybe being left behind wouldn't be the worst thing. Not if it was here. Not if it was with him.

[ReadwithNatCas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was definitely different for me! I do not do romance novels because sometimes they are a little too spicy for me but this right here was CHEFS KISS!!! It was a book that I know I can read around my 10 yr old and even if she looks it’s nothing bad! Lily came into a new place with her guard up but slowly let it go! Then you have Ethan who’s always mad & is going through the stages of grief! You can feel the tension between them but once you get 80% in it’s like the cutest story ever! If your looking for a book that can have you in your feelings this is the book! Thank you Kristen once again for this book!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Meagan Alvord Messer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A MUST READ!!!!

The chokehold this book has had me in has been unbelievable. I couldn’t have picked a better cozy romance to start off the year! The characters were so real and I felt like I really knew them. I am obsessed with Ethan and his grumpy self!! The grumpy meets sunshine and helps to let her actually feel loved and wanted 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

The 90s vibe was everything! I loved the music references and now I need to see the more of Ethan and Lily 🙈 honestly all the characters made you fall in love with them. I hope we get to see some of their stories unfold in the future. Carol was the best!! She remind me so much of my mother in law ☺️ so sweet, funny, caring.

[Mandy Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who grew up in a small midwest town in the 90’s the nostalgia of this book brought back memories!!

From the first chapter it locks you in and you want to unravel these characters. It’s a sweet city girl-smalltown boy love story that reminds me of a Hallmark movie. What was nice was the “spice” is very innocent and a nice change from the raunchiness of some other books (i.e. hockey romances).

This is a definite read if you love books from Abby Jiminez or enjoy books that are minimum on the spice level. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading anything Kristen publishes!!