When a Man Loves a Woman

by Victorine E. Lieske

She swore off men. He clearly didn't get the memo.

Kiera Emmerson has a win the cooking competition, earn the scholarship, get into culinary school, and do it all without owing anyone a single thing. She is not adding "fall for her employer" to that list. Especially not when said employer is River Stone — ex-child star, annoyingly handsome, and the most infuriating gentleman she's ever met — who obviously only gave her this job because he has a crush on her.

(She's choosing not to find that flattering. It is not working.)

River has a documentary to finish and a film festival deadline that isn't budging. What he doesn't have is the ability to focus when Kiera's in the room. She's sharp and funny and keeps him at arm's length — but every now and then, when she doesn't think he's looking, she almost smiles. Almost.

He knows someone hurt her. He doesn't know who, and he won't pry. But he's made up his she's worth slowing down for, and he'll prove it by being the one who shows up for her, even when she builds walls.

She says she's not interested. He says that's fine — he's got time. She says he's being ridiculous. He says she makes excellent risotto and would she please stop threatening to quit every time he pays her a compliment.

This is it — the final love story from Willow Shade Island.

Slow Burn * Grumpy Heroine/Sunshine Hero * Forced Proximity (Boss/Employee) * Small Town Romance * Former Celebrity * Guarded Heroine/Patient Hero * Found Family

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 18, 2026

Reviews

[Mara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought the Willow Shade Island series was complete when the last Barrett brother found his HEA, so this book was a happy surprise. We've seen Kiera and River in the previous books, so getting their story is a bonus!

Kiera is Kiki's sister, who has a guarded, don’t-want-to-need-anyone attitude, and this book really lets us understand why. Watching her try to stick to her life plan (win the competition, get the scholarship, no emotional distractions) and “falling for my former child star boss” is not on it. River calmly refuses to disappear was so good, but to be honest, it sometimes drove me crazy. Girl! That guy is trying to help you!!

River is like the perfect book boyfriend. We’ve seen his steady presence, his quiet kindness in the previous book, but now we get the full picture—the way he notices Kiki, respects her space, and still chooses to stay. He doesn’t push; he sees her walls and decides they’re fine. He’ll wait.

I'm thrilled that Kiera and River found each other so everyone in the Barrett family now has their HEA. It's such a satisfying way to end the series. I loved all the amazing food descriptions but it made me really hungry while reading, and I'd love to know where the author found the recipe ideas or if she came up with them.

I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good addition to an easy read series. Keira has low self-esteem but is determined to get a scholarship to become a chef. River, an ex-child star, now a documentary maker, has difficulty in dealing with his parents who do not believe he is up to the desired family standards. Keira and River will help each other in working their confidence issues and will find that relying on each other is what they need to be happy and reach their goals. It's a story about trust, family relationships, and pursuit of dreams with a happy ending.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Carolina CHC · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sweet romcom is the perfect close to the series — I honestly didn’t expect there were still characters left waiting for their own HEA, so this one felt like a lovely surprise.

Kiera Emmerson, the youngest sister of Kiki from book one, carries deep scars from being rejected and unfairly judged by the very people who should have protected her. Because of that, her walls are firmly in place, and she’s determined to prove — to everyone and to herself — that she’ll never again depend on anyone else for her stability or happiness.

River Stone is a former child actor whose early success didn’t translate into a lasting career. Now he’s choosing a new path that truly speaks to his heart, even though his family questions and undermines his decisions. Watching him stand by his choices added a really grounding emotional layer to the story.

Their connection is sweet and genuine, but both attraction and determination are tested as River tries to win Kiera’s trust while staying true to himself. Their journey to an HEA feels earned, tender, and satisfying.

I truly enjoyed this clean, feel-good romcom — it was the perfect palate cleanser after several heavier reads.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[S.A. Krishnan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Sweet patient Slow-burn romance
Four Point Two Stars
Kiera Emmerson is guarded with her independence because of her past mistakes, but with her sister's second baby coming along, Kiera decides to take a new step in a new direction and that leads her to River Stone.
River is a former child star, has an overbearing mother and though he is annoyingly handsome, he is also extraordinarily patient.
Kiera's past makes her pull away from the lovely present unfolding before her, River is still patient as he tries to win her over.
Cute clean romance of finding trust and healing. https://ok-readingcorner.blogspot.com...

[Delphia Von Heeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a Man Loves a Woman is Book 5 in the Willow Shade Island by Victorine Lieske. I loved this book… the title made me think of the 1966 R&B song, When a Man Loves a Woman, sung by Percy Sledge. River Stone needs a chef while Kiera is determined to not let River charm his way into her heart. When you throw in a mother determined to keep them apart, this romance is so very good. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Amanda Hall]

I loved Kiera and River's story. The details and thoughts that go into the cooking in this book were great! It makes me hungry! Kiera has gone through a lot and it makes you really cheer for her to be successful. River's family is a piece of work and you just feel bad for him. I loved the book and highly recommend this book and series. I loved this book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Alexis (IG: lexislimitlesslibrary) Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun read! The reverse grumpy/sunshine trope was handled perfectly, and the character arcs were genuinely satisfying to watch. The way the characters' pasts informed their present choices made the conflict feel earned rather than forced. Kiera’s journey was captivating, and watching her find her footing was the highlight for me. If you’re looking for a small-town romance that nails the character development, pick this up

This is book 5 of the Willow Shade Island series and can be read as a stand-alone.

Content: No explicit content, kisses only, family pressure.
I received an advanced copy of the book. A positive review was not required.

Available Formats: Kindle Unlimited, ebook, paperback

[AngieA Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fast paced romance with River and Kiera. River gives Kiera a venue to practice for an upcoming cooking competition that could result in a scholarship to culinary school. He is supportive and kind and incredibly smitten. Kiera is trying to keep her emotions in check to avoid derailing her dreams and goals. We learn some cool cooking stuff, by my favorite was JB&J Sushi. Brilliant. I wish Kiera was a little older; at 18, I think a serious romance a little premature but since she insists she will be focusing on her education, it may be OK. Both characters are coming out the other side from not-so-ideal childhood issues and they are both supportive of the other. Kiera has trust issues and River has trouble expressing his true desires to him mom. To be fair, she is a piece of work.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I enjoyed this book. I liked the friendship that developed between Kiera and River and the restraint shown when they both realized how they felt. I appreciated how they thought things through before reacting or making any permanent decisions. And River was especially good to show up for Kiera as a friend. Written in multiple POV, the action moved right along but didn't end prematurely; the ending was satisfactory. Highly recommend. This is the fifth and final book in the Willow Shade Island series. I have only read two of them and while they are stand alone, reading the previous books would add context.

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Experience has taught Kiera that everyone leaves, so her focus in life is independence and self-sufficiency. But that takes money, so when child-film-star-turned-documentary-maker River offers her a job as his personal chef, she accepts despite knowing he's only doing it to help. The professional distance she's determined to maintain turns out to be difficult, though, when he takes every opportunity to spend time with her and help her prepare for the upcoming cooking competition that she hopes will be her next big step. As the pair spend more time together, trust begins to develop - but can she ever really be sure someone so far out of her league could truly care when her own parents don't?

A delightful read with lots of fun and plenty of heart. I loved the many ways River showed he cared, but particularly his cooking challenges and the way he was there for her at the competition without trying to force something she wasn't ready for. They both have horrible backgrounds, which is tragic but does form a connection between them - and fortunately doesn't stop them having/making delightful futures. The food side of things is interesting but also way beyond my palate, though I do appreciate Kiera's creativity. For readers of previous books in the series, it's nice to see at least some more of the characters, but this is a complete standalone story. I'm looking forward to seeing what the author writes next, though sad at the idea of saying goodbye to Willow Shade Island.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Leann Arave · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great way to end this series. River and Keira are charming together, his undying support and encouragement is so sweet. Watching Keira grow and develop confidence for herself and in her cooking was delightful. Also, the culinary descriptions were fabulous. The romance between them was slow and protective.
The Barrett Brothers parents seemed to be loving and supportive, but passed away too early. Each of the brothers had trauma to work through. I think the one that touched me the most was Cricket helping Micah manage his social anxiety. The tension between all of the other characters and their parents brought depth to this series. All the mothers are very manipulative and the fathers went along with it. Kiki and Kiera were kicked out. Savannah’s mother was ashamed of cancer. Claire’s job was to take care of her parents flower shop. River was threatened with disownment for not living up to his mother‘s expectations. It definitely makes for an intriguing and dramatic storyline. Unfortunately, it’s probably more realistic than you think. But watching them all overcome their obstacles was enlightening. I was engulfed in this series. I read all five books in one weekend and I highly recommend reading them in order. Each book is a clean romance, no foul language and have great life building experiences. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Michelle Dodge · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a clean romance. It is part of a series, but can be read as a stand alone. However, I think it might be better to read prior books to understand side characters.

Kiera has led a hard life and doesn't trust due to that life. She is asked by Noah, a former child actor, to cook for him five times a week. She isn't sure she trusts him, but accepts this anyway. This will help her fund her apartment and move out of her sister's house. She wants to be independent and rely on herself. Both Noah and Kiera have baggage. Can they figure out how to trust each other? Can Noah help Kiera with her confidence to get a scholarship to cooking school?

This was a good story. I enjoyed the characters. It's easy to see how family can interfere too much. Having trouble with parents can interfere with your life if they won't allow you to grow up. I like how they worked on things and dealt with family. This was the first book in this series that I read. I liked it so much I now need to go back read the others. I didn't want to put it down.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sigy George · Rating 4 out of 5]

Victorine E. Lieske’s When a Man Loves a Woman pulled me in because of the emotional tension between the two main characters. Kiera is determined to become independent after a painful past, and her cautious nature makes her feel very real. River, on the other hand, is quietly kind and surprisingly patient as their relationship slowly unfolds.

What stood out to me most were the everyday moments—especially the cooking scenes. Food becomes the bridge between them, and those small interactions make the romance feel natural rather than forced.

The story unfolds at a gentle pace, focusing more on emotional growth than dramatic twists. At times, the hero felt a little too perfect, but the warmth of the story kept me invested.

If you enjoy slow-burn romances with wounded characters learning to trust again, this book is definitely worth reading.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Megan | Reads Alotl Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was delighted to jump back into the Willow Shadw Island and finally get Kiera and River's story. If you like small-town, second chance, some messy past energy, enemies-to-more, with stubborn main characters, this book it for you! It’s honestly such a fun, easy read.

Kiera is fiercely independent (for good reason) and determined to make it on her own—no distractions, no falling for her boss. Except… her boss is River Stone: former child star, patient golden retriever energy, and very into her. And he’s not going anywhere.

Both of them have some big family issues and I was sad about it, but they both have something to prove. They start to form a friendship and the slow-burn space River gives her is almost agony. I admire River for sticking to her boundaries though. They are delightful and I love Kiera's growth in herself. I truly felt their pain and emotions throughout the book, which made their development more real.

[Sandra Hartzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Kiera Emmerson wants to be a chef and has entered a contest for a scholarship to a culinary school. River Stone, a former child star and now film producer, hires her to cook meals for him because he is falling for her and in order to practice for the contest, and he challenges her which helps her prepare. She is afraid of relationships because so many people in her life have left or let her down, but she falls for River and breaks up with him before the contest because of her fears. Interesting and uplifting story about challenges, overcoming fears, and growing stronger.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two ends of the spectrum, Kiera forced out of her parents home and River at the other end, where he is expected fall in line with his parents perception of suitable credentials acceptable to the family expectations. Each help the other in a way of understanding the internal needs required to achieve their goals.
A story so often found amongst the wealthy whose outlook is all about financials and the bottom line. While others look for happiness in other interests. This author grabs your attention and holds it in the palm of her hand.
I received a copy from BookSirens and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Danelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

River and Kiera were both forced to grow up too fast although because of completely different reasons. Kiera was thrown out by her parents long before she was even of age. River was a child start that grew up under over bearing and controlling parents. Kiera dreams of going to cooking school and enters a competition that if won would provide a full scholarship. Through it all they support each other and over come their challenges. I enjoyed their closing and feel confident they will have that HEA they both earned. I really liked this story and definitely recommend it be add to the to be read pile. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Marisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

My absolute favorite of the series!! I was emotionally invested in Kiera and River’s blossoming relationship.

Both characters had baggage and scars that were suffocating them in different ways. To see how River patiently waited and listened and actively helped boost Kiera’s confidence was heart wrenching in the best way! Then Kiera being vulnerable and open and finding her worth in the world…absolutely beautiful.

This book had the most swoon worthy kisses!! I will recommend this book forever and ever! The whole Willow Shade series is a must read for anyone who loves emotionally deep, sweet, clean, closed door romances!

[Jessica Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was sweet and classic; two broken people who make each other whole.

I absolutely enjoyed the culinary aspect of this novel (Kiera is practicing for a cooking competition for a scholarship to culinary school). She's the more "broken" of the two, and needs some serious healing. River's perfect for her that way. But at a certain point, I almost (ALMOST) got frustrated with his "take it slow, give her space, don't spook her" approach. I would have gotten bored in the middle-ish of the book, except right at that point, he said three special words (and they're not the ones you're thinking of!)

He finds someone to fight for, and she finds someone who stays. HEA

[Denice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this sweet story. Kiera has had a hard life and parents that weren’t supportive or forgiving. She loves to cook and wants a scholarship to go to cooking school. Noah, a former child actor asks her to cook for him, and she agrees so she can get her own apartment and become independent. I loved how Noah came up with ideas to help her train for the scholarship competition and was so supportive. I loved how this story showed two people who were able to move past their past baggage and become who they want to be. A wonderful story and great addition to this series.

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so happy when the author announced this book! I thought there would be no more Willow Shade Island books but, yay, there's another one! We still get to see the Barrett brothers and their lovely wives/girlfriends in this one, which was so fun! Kiera and River are the main characters in this book and we have seen them as side characters previously. I loved watching their story unfold. It was such a sweet relationship between these two. From a new friendship, to great friends, to chemistry ,and a sweet love story. I was there for it all!!!

They both are dealing with feeling like disappointments to their families and are out to prove themselves as to being very capable. I loved how they cheered each other on and helped each other realize that they are worth being cared for and worth being loved and that isn't contingent on anything! It was really sweet and a great message for anyone who feels like they are disappointments. I hope everyone can have a Kiera or River in their lives, someone who will cheer them on, someone who will be there no matter what, and someone who can help you see you are worthy!

The food in this one had my mouth watering like crazy! I wanted to taste it all, or go find a restaurant that would let me taste it all! Hahaha! The author did a fantastic job with this aspect of the novel. Actually with all of it! Another win from her in my books!!!

Content: Clean. Some sweet kisses and nothing further.

I received a copy from the author via BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Anna Beth Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I did I receive an advance review copy for free, but I am leaving this review voluntarily and it is my own honest opinion. It is a traditional trope in that you have a girl rejected by parents and not trusting anyone and a guy whose parents expect more of him. But I loved the characters Kiera and River. I loved reading about their friendship growing and that River had a healthy respect for Kiera and did his best to respect her boundaries. This was such a cute, pleasant and clean read.

[Barbara Tobey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet romance. When I discovered the protagonist was only 18 years old, I wasn't certain I was going to enjoy the story. Seemed young and I usually prefer older characters. Not necessarily by much but at least out of their teens. Her age was not an issue. I was quickly engaged with the various characters and their stories. Not an easy life previously for either of the main characters. Thanks to BookSirens for providing a copy. My review is voluntary.

[Karen Brasher · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a Man Loves a Woman

This is a short and sweet story. Kiera wants badly to win the cooking competition scholarship to be able to succeed at her desire to be a chef. When the actor River Stone asks her to be his personal chef, she reluctantly agreed. There was a spark between them she wanted to avoid because she had sworn off men. Will she be able to harden her heart to the charming actor?

[CJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't believe we've reached the end of the series!! But what an end it was, I loved every minute and I can't wait to see what this author will write next!! There were so many lines and moments that I loved, it was emotional and sweet and made me want to get in the kitchen and try some new recipes! Definitely a series I will read again and again!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sheri Bolinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so sad to see this series end! This was a fantastic end to an amazing series! This time we see Keira and River's story. Both of these two have childhood issues they are dealing with and trying to believe they are good enough. I loved that we get to see these two support each other as friends as they are navigating their feelings. I wish I had a Keira or River when I was their age to help me. These two were the sweetest and I loved them.

[Judith Seale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming r!

Kiera has had a hard life starting at sixteen. Her parents put her out on the streets. She built up so many walls to protect herself. Amazing what she has been through. She had a dream of becoming a chef. She had an opportunity to cook for River, a handsome actor. This would give her practice, but she didn't trust River. So many things going through her mind. What a way to live!

[Connie Spencer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

Wow that's a great story and ending for this series! I thought it was over on the last book because all of the brothers had their story so I was happily delighted that there was more. Great characters and the storyline was fun and enough twists to keep you turning pages! Great job with this series!

[Tami Willard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part of an interconnected series. Characters overlap along with the storyline. Better if read in order but can be read as a standalone.

Opposites attract

He falls first

She's still struggling with scars from her past.

Family drama with toxic relationships with parents

Personal goals vs expectations

Tearing down societal hierarchy one meal at a time.

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kiera has not had an easy life. Former child star River hires her to cook for him. Then he decides to help her practice for a culinary competition. Like when Kiera’s niece Skylar came to River’s house and they all played Barbies. There was nothing not to like in this book. It was sweet and clean with likable main characters and a ton of chemistry between them. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

[Rhonda Sledge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this fifth book in the series. The characters seem to be growing and expanding. I enjoy seeing the characters from the earlier books and experiencing the sense of family they enjoy. This book was well written and certainly worth your time. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.