What do you think?
Rate this book
Willowbrook #2
Crave
A rising star hits rock bottom…
It was supposed to be her next big break—the kind of dream role that would make actress Gia Lien a household name, but a predatory producer turned it into a nightmare. With her career and sobriety hanging in the balance, Gia leaves Los Angeles for the hometown she fled a decade before.
An old flame brings new fire…
Jake West screwed up his life a long time ago, and he’s been making the best of it ever since. He’s a lawyer now and the adoptive dad to a daughter with a mischievous streak. But when it comes to love—his heart belongs to a woman he only sees on big screens and supermarket tabloids. Until she walks back into Willowbrook like she never left.
A second chance at first love…
Jake is the very last person Gia wants to see, but somehow he’s everywhere she looks—hanging out in her family’s restaurant, being called uncle by her nieces, taking care of the daughter he adopted. He’s no longer the boy she remembers, but she’s also not the girl who naively handed over her heart. No matter how tempting…some cravings are too dangerous to indulge.
Dive into the delicious slow burn of the second installment in the Willowbrook series—CRAVE is a standalone, angsty romance about childhood friends turned first love followed by the worst heartbreak. Can a second chance breathe new life into ancient history?
It was supposed to be her next big break—the kind of dream role that would make actress Gia Lien a household name, but a predatory producer turned it into a nightmare. With her career and sobriety hanging in the balance, Gia leaves Los Angeles for the hometown she fled a decade before.
An old flame brings new fire…
Jake West screwed up his life a long time ago, and he’s been making the best of it ever since. He’s a lawyer now and the adoptive dad to a daughter with a mischievous streak. But when it comes to love—his heart belongs to a woman he only sees on big screens and supermarket tabloids. Until she walks back into Willowbrook like she never left.
A second chance at first love…
Jake is the very last person Gia wants to see, but somehow he’s everywhere she looks—hanging out in her family’s restaurant, being called uncle by her nieces, taking care of the daughter he adopted. He’s no longer the boy she remembers, but she’s also not the girl who naively handed over her heart. No matter how tempting…some cravings are too dangerous to indulge.
Dive into the delicious slow burn of the second installment in the Willowbrook series—CRAVE is a standalone, angsty romance about childhood friends turned first love followed by the worst heartbreak. Can a second chance breathe new life into ancient history?
- GenresRomance
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 5, 2026
About the author
Lily Anh Nam
6 books18 followersLily Anh Nam is an Asian American contemporary romance author. She lives in a quiet New England town with her family and her feline writing companions. Her cats are often featured in her stories. Though she grew up on a tropical island, her favorite season is fall. Caramel lattes and mint chocolates keep her running. When not writing, Lily likes to spend time with her family. She rarely leaves the house without bribery.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Read
May 18, 2026After reading Crash, I was so excited to continue this series… and wow, this book absolutely did not disappoint.
Crave delivered everything I love in a small town romance: emotional moments, beautiful family dynamics, healing, tension, and characters that genuinely felt real.
I especially loved the way grief and healing were handled throughout the story. It was written in such a heartfelt and emotional way that it really pulled me into the characters’ struggles and emotions.
The pet center and Tuna completely stole my heart. As an animal lover, those moments made me incredibly happy.
And Jake… seeing him as an adoptive father honestly melted my heart. The love, care, and patience he showed were one of my favorite parts of the entire book.
The family dynamics in this series continue to be one of the strongest aspects for me. The Liens felt so warm and lovable, and they made Willowbrook feel even more like home.
This is definitely a recommendation from me, and I already know this series will stay with me for a long time 💜
Crave delivered everything I love in a small town romance: emotional moments, beautiful family dynamics, healing, tension, and characters that genuinely felt real.
I especially loved the way grief and healing were handled throughout the story. It was written in such a heartfelt and emotional way that it really pulled me into the characters’ struggles and emotions.
The pet center and Tuna completely stole my heart. As an animal lover, those moments made me incredibly happy.
And Jake… seeing him as an adoptive father honestly melted my heart. The love, care, and patience he showed were one of my favorite parts of the entire book.
The family dynamics in this series continue to be one of the strongest aspects for me. The Liens felt so warm and lovable, and they made Willowbrook feel even more like home.
This is definitely a recommendation from me, and I already know this series will stay with me for a long time 💜
Review of advance copy
⭐️ Overall Rating: 5/5
🔥 Burn Level: 4.5/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3/5
💧 Emotional Impact: 5/5
Crave was everything I want from a second-chance romance. It pulled me in quickly and never let me go.
Gia Lien is a successful Vietnamese Hollywood actress on the outside, but beneath the fame, she’s struggling. Addiction, rehab, grief, and the pressure of surviving in Hollywood have taken their toll, and after hitting rock bottom, she returns to Willowbrook—the hometown she ran from years ago.
What made Gia’s story so powerful was how real it felt. She isn’t just returning home; she’s trying to find herself again after years of losing pieces of who she was. The grief she carries from losing her twin brother follows her everywhere, and watching her navigate that pain made her one of the most emotionally compelling heroines I’ve read in a long time.
Then there’s Jake.
Jake never stopped loving Gia. Not once.
Even after she left. Even after she pushed him away. Even when she returned home determined to keep her distance and protect herself by shutting down every feeling she still had for him.
The chemistry between them never disappeared, and every interaction reminded me why second-chance romances can be so special. There was history, hurt, longing, and hope woven into every scene.
One of my favorite parts of this book was Jake’s daughter. She completely stole my heart. As a huge Gia fan, she basically becomes the book’s little Cupid, helping push her dad and Gia together. Honestly, it felt like the entire town was rooting for them, and I loved that sense of community and found family throughout the story.
As Gia spends more time in Willowbrook, she slowly reconnects with the version of herself that existed before Hollywood, before addiction, and before grief consumed so much of her life. Watching Willowbrook become her safe place again was beautiful.
This story hit me on a personal level. Gia’s grief over losing her twin brother reminded me of losing my own brother when I was ten years old. Reading her journey brought up thoughts about grief, healing, and the life that could have been. It reminded me that sometimes grief isn’t something we fully process in the moment—it can take years before we’re ready to acknowledge those feelings and carry them forward.
Crave is a story about first love, second chances, healing, grief, forgiveness, and finding your way back to yourself.
Thank you to Iris Influencer Society and Lily Anh Nam for the opportunity to read and review Crave. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
🔥 Burn Level: 4.5/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3/5
💧 Emotional Impact: 5/5
Crave was everything I want from a second-chance romance. It pulled me in quickly and never let me go.
Gia Lien is a successful Vietnamese Hollywood actress on the outside, but beneath the fame, she’s struggling. Addiction, rehab, grief, and the pressure of surviving in Hollywood have taken their toll, and after hitting rock bottom, she returns to Willowbrook—the hometown she ran from years ago.
What made Gia’s story so powerful was how real it felt. She isn’t just returning home; she’s trying to find herself again after years of losing pieces of who she was. The grief she carries from losing her twin brother follows her everywhere, and watching her navigate that pain made her one of the most emotionally compelling heroines I’ve read in a long time.
Then there’s Jake.
Jake never stopped loving Gia. Not once.
Even after she left. Even after she pushed him away. Even when she returned home determined to keep her distance and protect herself by shutting down every feeling she still had for him.
The chemistry between them never disappeared, and every interaction reminded me why second-chance romances can be so special. There was history, hurt, longing, and hope woven into every scene.
One of my favorite parts of this book was Jake’s daughter. She completely stole my heart. As a huge Gia fan, she basically becomes the book’s little Cupid, helping push her dad and Gia together. Honestly, it felt like the entire town was rooting for them, and I loved that sense of community and found family throughout the story.
As Gia spends more time in Willowbrook, she slowly reconnects with the version of herself that existed before Hollywood, before addiction, and before grief consumed so much of her life. Watching Willowbrook become her safe place again was beautiful.
This story hit me on a personal level. Gia’s grief over losing her twin brother reminded me of losing my own brother when I was ten years old. Reading her journey brought up thoughts about grief, healing, and the life that could have been. It reminded me that sometimes grief isn’t something we fully process in the moment—it can take years before we’re ready to acknowledge those feelings and carry them forward.
Crave is a story about first love, second chances, healing, grief, forgiveness, and finding your way back to yourself.
Thank you to Iris Influencer Society and Lily Anh Nam for the opportunity to read and review Crave. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
💜 Crave 🎀
Book 2 in the Willowbrook Series
Written By: @lilyanhnam
⭐ Overall: 3/5
📖 Plot: 3/5
👥 Character Development: 3/5
⏩ Pace: 3/5
🌎 World Building: 4/5
🌶️ Spice: 2/5
First—thank you @lilyanhnam and @iris.influencer.society for the ARC ahead of its release! 🎀
He was her first love... and her worst heartbreak. 💜
I was really looking forward to this book because I love supporting AAPI authors, and a second-chance romance centered around returning home, healing, and rebuilding yourself after hitting rock bottom sounded like exactly my kind of story.
There were a lot of strong foundations here. I enjoyed the small-town setting, the family dynamics, and especially the single dad element. Jake's unwavering love for Gia, even after years apart, was easily one of the strongest aspects of the book. His relationship with his adopted daughter was heartwarming, and it added an extra layer of depth to his character.
That said, the execution didn't fully land for me. I wanted a stronger emotional connection between Gia and Jake to really sell their second chance. Given the story's focus on family and cultural expectations, I especially wished there had been more emphasis on actions speaking louder than words—a theme that often resonates strongly within Asian family dynamics.
I also found myself wishing the side characters had been more developed. There were several supporting characters who had the potential to add depth and richness to the story, but many of them felt glossed over and somewhat interchangeable. More distinct personalities and stronger individual arcs would have made the world feel more lived-in and memorable.
Gia's grief over losing her twin brother and the trauma surrounding the assault that drove her away from Hollywood were powerful story elements, but the mental health moments sometimes felt disconnected from the scenes they appeared in rather than naturally woven into the narrative. The romantic and spicy moments between Gia and Jake also felt slightly out of sync with the emotional journey they were taking together.
Overall, I think readers who enjoy emotional second-chance romances, small-town settings, and devoted single dads may still find a lot to love here. While it didn't completely work for me, I appreciated the themes of healing, family, and finding your way back home.
✨ Tropes ✨:
💜 Brother's Best Friend
🎀 Single Dad
💜 Meddling/Matchmaking Family
🎀 Slow Burn
💜 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🎀 Second Chance Romance
💜 Crave 🎀
Book 2 in the Willowbrook Series
Written By: @lilyanhnam
⭐ Overall: 3/5
📖 Plot: 3/5
👥 Character Development: 3/5
⏩ Pace: 3/5
🌎 World Building: 4/5
🌶️ Spice: 2/5
First—thank you @lilyanhnam and @iris.influencer.society for the ARC ahead of its release! 🎀
He was her first love... and her worst heartbreak. 💜
I was really looking forward to this book because I love supporting AAPI authors, and a second-chance romance centered around returning home, healing, and rebuilding yourself after hitting rock bottom sounded like exactly my kind of story.
There were a lot of strong foundations here. I enjoyed the small-town setting, the family dynamics, and especially the single dad element. Jake's unwavering love for Gia, even after years apart, was easily one of the strongest aspects of the book. His relationship with his adopted daughter was heartwarming, and it added an extra layer of depth to his character.
That said, the execution didn't fully land for me. I wanted a stronger emotional connection between Gia and Jake to really sell their second chance. Given the story's focus on family and cultural expectations, I especially wished there had been more emphasis on actions speaking louder than words—a theme that often resonates strongly within Asian family dynamics.
I also found myself wishing the side characters had been more developed. There were several supporting characters who had the potential to add depth and richness to the story, but many of them felt glossed over and somewhat interchangeable. More distinct personalities and stronger individual arcs would have made the world feel more lived-in and memorable.
Gia's grief over losing her twin brother and the trauma surrounding the assault that drove her away from Hollywood were powerful story elements, but the mental health moments sometimes felt disconnected from the scenes they appeared in rather than naturally woven into the narrative. The romantic and spicy moments between Gia and Jake also felt slightly out of sync with the emotional journey they were taking together.
Overall, I think readers who enjoy emotional second-chance romances, small-town settings, and devoted single dads may still find a lot to love here. While it didn't completely work for me, I appreciated the themes of healing, family, and finding your way back home.
✨ Tropes ✨:
💜 Brother's Best Friend
🎀 Single Dad
💜 Meddling/Matchmaking Family
🎀 Slow Burn
💜 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🎀 Second Chance Romance
Review of advance copy received from Author
Crave Review ARC
Crave was such a beautiful and emotional second-chance romance. I gave it 4.5 stars ⭐️ because honestly, it pulled me in way more than I expected.
The story follows Gia, a famous Vietnamese Hollywood actress who returns to Willowbrook, the small town where she grew up, after completely falling apart. Gia struggled with addiction, rehab, and countless dark moments while trying to survive the Hollywood industry.
But the biggest thing haunting her isn’t just what happened in Hollywood it’s the guilt. Because when her twin brother died, she basically ran away from the town and abandoned everyone who loved her… including the love of her life, Jake.
And God… Jake.
That man never got over her. Even though Gia comes back determined to keep her distance, constantly rejecting him and pretending she feels nothing, the chemistry between them is still there from the very beginning.
One of my favorite parts was Jake’s daughter. That little girl becomes the official cupid of the story because she’s a huge fan of Gia and decides to help her dad win her back. Honestly, the entire town was involved in that mission too 😭. Between the daughter, the townspeople, and even Gia’s parents, everyone wanted to see them together again.
As time passes, Gia slowly starts remembering who she used to be before Hollywood, before addiction, before grief, and before she lost herself. And Willowbrook along with Jake slowly becomes the safe place where she can finally start over.
I also loved how the author explored the darker side of Hollywood and everything Gia had to endure to become famous. There’s so much pain behind her celebrity life, and it made her character feel incredibly real.
And when someone from her past shows up in town trying to drag her back into that world… Jake immediately goes full protective mode.
The ending was genuinely beautiful because Gia finally realizes she deserves happiness again. She deserves love, family, peace, and a second chance at life away from everything that destroyed her.
Also… there are cats in this story. And honestly, that automatically makes any book better for me. 🐈⬛
Crave was such a beautiful and emotional second-chance romance. I gave it 4.5 stars ⭐️ because honestly, it pulled me in way more than I expected.
The story follows Gia, a famous Vietnamese Hollywood actress who returns to Willowbrook, the small town where she grew up, after completely falling apart. Gia struggled with addiction, rehab, and countless dark moments while trying to survive the Hollywood industry.
But the biggest thing haunting her isn’t just what happened in Hollywood it’s the guilt. Because when her twin brother died, she basically ran away from the town and abandoned everyone who loved her… including the love of her life, Jake.
And God… Jake.
That man never got over her. Even though Gia comes back determined to keep her distance, constantly rejecting him and pretending she feels nothing, the chemistry between them is still there from the very beginning.
One of my favorite parts was Jake’s daughter. That little girl becomes the official cupid of the story because she’s a huge fan of Gia and decides to help her dad win her back. Honestly, the entire town was involved in that mission too 😭. Between the daughter, the townspeople, and even Gia’s parents, everyone wanted to see them together again.
As time passes, Gia slowly starts remembering who she used to be before Hollywood, before addiction, before grief, and before she lost herself. And Willowbrook along with Jake slowly becomes the safe place where she can finally start over.
I also loved how the author explored the darker side of Hollywood and everything Gia had to endure to become famous. There’s so much pain behind her celebrity life, and it made her character feel incredibly real.
And when someone from her past shows up in town trying to drag her back into that world… Jake immediately goes full protective mode.
The ending was genuinely beautiful because Gia finally realizes she deserves happiness again. She deserves love, family, peace, and a second chance at life away from everything that destroyed her.
Also… there are cats in this story. And honestly, that automatically makes any book better for me. 🐈⬛
June 5, 2026
I went into Crave by Lily Anh Nam expecting a comforting, breezy small-town escape, and let me tell you… Was I wrong! This book completely blindsided me with its emotional weight, wrapping a gorgeous romance inside a raw, deeply moving journey of healing and survival.
This setup hooks you instantly: Gia Lien is a famous Hollywood actress who has hit absolute rock bottom under the glitz and glam of LA. Desperate for a fresh start, she retreats to Willowbrook, the small town she left a decade ago. Between her silent trauma, her addiction recovery, and her unresolved grief over a loss, she is just trying to find a safe place to breathe.
And then there’s Jake West.
Oh, my heart. 🥹 He is her brother's best friend, her first love, and the local lawyer who unexpectedly became an adoptive single dad to a sweet little girl named Marley. Talk about the ultimate walking golden retriever! He has spent many years loving Gia from afar, and the second she walks back into town, he is a man on a mission to prove to her that he is her safe harbor.
I loved how their relationship felt so genuinely real, rather than perfect or rushed. They needed to work through all those years of messy history to find their way back to each other. Gia also needed to slowly take down her walls and be able to heal from everything Hollywood had put her through… And watching the entire town, Jake’s daughter, and the local pet center rally around her felt like a warm and healing hug!
This is not just a romance; it is a powerful reminder of growth, resilience, and finding your way back to yourself after life completely knocks you sideways. It tackles heavy, real-world themes with such care and respect, proving that survival is beautiful!
For anyone wanting to add this to their summer reading list, Crave officially releases this Friday, June 5th.
A massive thank you to @lilyanhnam and @iris.influencer.society for the privilege of reading this ARC! All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
This setup hooks you instantly: Gia Lien is a famous Hollywood actress who has hit absolute rock bottom under the glitz and glam of LA. Desperate for a fresh start, she retreats to Willowbrook, the small town she left a decade ago. Between her silent trauma, her addiction recovery, and her unresolved grief over a loss, she is just trying to find a safe place to breathe.
And then there’s Jake West.
Oh, my heart. 🥹 He is her brother's best friend, her first love, and the local lawyer who unexpectedly became an adoptive single dad to a sweet little girl named Marley. Talk about the ultimate walking golden retriever! He has spent many years loving Gia from afar, and the second she walks back into town, he is a man on a mission to prove to her that he is her safe harbor.
I loved how their relationship felt so genuinely real, rather than perfect or rushed. They needed to work through all those years of messy history to find their way back to each other. Gia also needed to slowly take down her walls and be able to heal from everything Hollywood had put her through… And watching the entire town, Jake’s daughter, and the local pet center rally around her felt like a warm and healing hug!
This is not just a romance; it is a powerful reminder of growth, resilience, and finding your way back to yourself after life completely knocks you sideways. It tackles heavy, real-world themes with such care and respect, proving that survival is beautiful!
For anyone wanting to add this to their summer reading list, Crave officially releases this Friday, June 5th.
A massive thank you to @lilyanhnam and @iris.influencer.society for the privilege of reading this ARC! All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy
I started reading this and was immediately hooked. I was invested in the characters. The multi-POV adds to the storyline depth. This is a cozy romance with substance and even some suspense. I love Lily Anh Nam's writing style, so much so that I purchased her first book in the Willowbrook Novel series, Crash.
Crave is a second chance at first love.
FMC Gia - A feral cat. A Hollywood hot commodity model and actress who abruptly left the small town she grew up in to pursue her dream. Gia's life unraveled and she was broken. Could she be healed? Can trust be regained? Did she abandon her family and love to chase after a dream that only left her fractured and an empty shell?
MMC Jake - A golden retriever. A small town golden boy who is an attorney and who is guardian of a teenage girl. He smells like sandalwood and sin. Can he make her high school friend fall in love with him or will they forever remain in the friend zone? Can he break through the hard shell she built around her heart?
* Family rooted by blood and by destiny
* Operation Tuna Melt and Operation Feral Cat (IYKYK)
* Character growth and healing
* Tension and chemistry
* Small community bonds
* Brother's best friend
* Single dad
Favorite quotes:
"It looks like you're breathing the same air as me, and you need to leave."
"Maybe grief was love knocking on the door and not having a place to go. She hadn't made space for it, and so it kept pulling her under."
"Nothing made her feel less empty. Until now."
"Just when you think you've got it all figured out - that's when life throws you a curveball. A giant F-K you from the universe to keep you on your toes."
"I want everything from you. All of you. Every broken piece that makes you who you are. I want it all."
"Some people were worth losing everything for."
"Stop pretending we're still friends. You are not my friend."
"He didn't need to act like a raging alpha-hole and scare her off."
Crave is a second chance at first love.
FMC Gia - A feral cat. A Hollywood hot commodity model and actress who abruptly left the small town she grew up in to pursue her dream. Gia's life unraveled and she was broken. Could she be healed? Can trust be regained? Did she abandon her family and love to chase after a dream that only left her fractured and an empty shell?
MMC Jake - A golden retriever. A small town golden boy who is an attorney and who is guardian of a teenage girl. He smells like sandalwood and sin. Can he make her high school friend fall in love with him or will they forever remain in the friend zone? Can he break through the hard shell she built around her heart?
* Family rooted by blood and by destiny
* Operation Tuna Melt and Operation Feral Cat (IYKYK)
* Character growth and healing
* Tension and chemistry
* Small community bonds
* Brother's best friend
* Single dad
Favorite quotes:
"It looks like you're breathing the same air as me, and you need to leave."
"Maybe grief was love knocking on the door and not having a place to go. She hadn't made space for it, and so it kept pulling her under."
"Nothing made her feel less empty. Until now."
"Just when you think you've got it all figured out - that's when life throws you a curveball. A giant F-K you from the universe to keep you on your toes."
"I want everything from you. All of you. Every broken piece that makes you who you are. I want it all."
"Some people were worth losing everything for."
"Stop pretending we're still friends. You are not my friend."
"He didn't need to act like a raging alpha-hole and scare her off."
Review of advance copy received from Author
I will preface that I didn't read the first book before I read this one. Not because I didn't want to, but lowkey forgot to! I do think I missed a few things after I read the synopsis of the first and plan to go back to read it but also feel this book can stand on its own two feet!
Potential spoilers!
This book grabbed my attention from the first page. It went straight into action for the FMC, Gia and really gave good background as to why she went home in the first place. I immediately felt for her and wanted nothing but to protect her (obviously knowing full well she's fictional). I could never imagine what she was going through personally but still resonated with her internal struggles!
Now for our golden boy MMC, Jake. He's selfless, overall kind, and the kind of guy every girls dream of! He protects those that mean the world to him and will stop at nothing to make sure nothing happens to them (even if it's a tad morally gray). Overcoming his childhood to become who he is I think will hit home for readers who have been dealt the same kind of hand. He handles single 'fatherhood' like a champ, even if it wasn't what he imagined for himself.
The second chance at love, enemies to lovers in this book is well done! It captures what can happen when you let your walls down and don't give up on the person you love, even if you screwed up.
10/10, easily recommend, especially if you've read the first!
I was given an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review
Potential spoilers!
This book grabbed my attention from the first page. It went straight into action for the FMC, Gia and really gave good background as to why she went home in the first place. I immediately felt for her and wanted nothing but to protect her (obviously knowing full well she's fictional). I could never imagine what she was going through personally but still resonated with her internal struggles!
Now for our golden boy MMC, Jake. He's selfless, overall kind, and the kind of guy every girls dream of! He protects those that mean the world to him and will stop at nothing to make sure nothing happens to them (even if it's a tad morally gray). Overcoming his childhood to become who he is I think will hit home for readers who have been dealt the same kind of hand. He handles single 'fatherhood' like a champ, even if it wasn't what he imagined for himself.
The second chance at love, enemies to lovers in this book is well done! It captures what can happen when you let your walls down and don't give up on the person you love, even if you screwed up.
10/10, easily recommend, especially if you've read the first!
I was given an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jake and Gia were the cutest! I loved their backstory and how they have been so intertwined with each other since they were young.
There were so many odds against them. Jake's relationship with Gia's twin, Thao. His really horrible family life. The summer that changed everything. Then later, Gia's newfound fame, her previous addiction history and they incident that caused her to run.
Despite all the hurt feelings, the pain of loss and the changes that happened in the decade Gia was gone, Jake still held a hope for her to finally make her way back to him. His never ending love and desire to protect Gia from forces he didn't have the resources to fight as a small town lawyer was so swoon worthy.
I also really loved Jake's relationship with Marley. He was able to give her the childhood he didn't have and the support he wished for. I loved the bond she built with Gia.
I really, on a personal level, enjoyed the incorporation of growing up in an Asian household. It was nice to relate to characters this much. I understood Thao's need to go into a field his parents wanted for stability, rather than chasing the dream that was less stable. I also related to a household not filled with words of affection but rather acts of love through food. Food has always been a way my family shows love and care and it was nice to see that on page.
I really enjoyed this story and can't wait for the next story in this series!
There were so many odds against them. Jake's relationship with Gia's twin, Thao. His really horrible family life. The summer that changed everything. Then later, Gia's newfound fame, her previous addiction history and they incident that caused her to run.
Despite all the hurt feelings, the pain of loss and the changes that happened in the decade Gia was gone, Jake still held a hope for her to finally make her way back to him. His never ending love and desire to protect Gia from forces he didn't have the resources to fight as a small town lawyer was so swoon worthy.
I also really loved Jake's relationship with Marley. He was able to give her the childhood he didn't have and the support he wished for. I loved the bond she built with Gia.
I really, on a personal level, enjoyed the incorporation of growing up in an Asian household. It was nice to relate to characters this much. I understood Thao's need to go into a field his parents wanted for stability, rather than chasing the dream that was less stable. I also related to a household not filled with words of affection but rather acts of love through food. Food has always been a way my family shows love and care and it was nice to see that on page.
I really enjoyed this story and can't wait for the next story in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end. Even though this is book two in the series, I truly feel like it can be read as a standalone without feeling completely lost. The story immediately pulled me in emotionally, and I became so attached to the characters and everything they were going through.
One of my favorite parts was the second chance romance between Gia and Jake. Their history together, the tension, the hurt, and the love that still remained underneath everything felt so real and emotional. Jake was honestly such a swoon-worthy MMC… protective, caring, loyal, and willing to do absolutely anything for the people he loves. I also loved how Marley fit into the story and the emotional depth she brought to their journey.
I loved that the romance wasn’t perfect or easy. It felt messy, emotional, and genuine in a way that kept me fully invested the entire time. Beyond the romance, I really appreciated the deeper themes involving family, healing, grief, and personal struggles. The characters felt layered and believable, and I loved seeing how much their pasts shaped who they became. If you’re an animal lover, this book is definitely for you too 🥰🐾
Overall, this story had the perfect balance of romance, emotion, tension, and heartwarming moments. I flew through it and already can’t wait for the next book in the series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end. Even though this is book two in the series, I truly feel like it can be read as a standalone without feeling completely lost. The story immediately pulled me in emotionally, and I became so attached to the characters and everything they were going through.
One of my favorite parts was the second chance romance between Gia and Jake. Their history together, the tension, the hurt, and the love that still remained underneath everything felt so real and emotional. Jake was honestly such a swoon-worthy MMC… protective, caring, loyal, and willing to do absolutely anything for the people he loves. I also loved how Marley fit into the story and the emotional depth she brought to their journey.
I loved that the romance wasn’t perfect or easy. It felt messy, emotional, and genuine in a way that kept me fully invested the entire time. Beyond the romance, I really appreciated the deeper themes involving family, healing, grief, and personal struggles. The characters felt layered and believable, and I loved seeing how much their pasts shaped who they became. If you’re an animal lover, this book is definitely for you too 🥰🐾
Overall, this story had the perfect balance of romance, emotion, tension, and heartwarming moments. I flew through it and already can’t wait for the next book in the series.
June 5, 2026
Thank you SO MUCH @lilyanhnam and @iris.influencer.society for the opportunity.
ARC review:
Overall review: 3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶
The book had a good story line.
Brothers best friend is one of my favorite tropes.
Small town romance really gives a family like feeling to the story.
I felt all the emotions Gia was going through. The lost of her brother, Jake, and not having a family that she felt emotionally connected to.
She left to follow her dream with noone to guide her through thw right paths. Never found a good friend until the end, no good boyfriend, and she never went back home.
I like that Jake and her had the connection of losing someone so close them.
The fact he built the house she dreamed of having. The "we are proud of you" from her parents at the end!
I wish their relationship develop more I guess. It felt like they were friends for a long time, she hated him for half of the book, and at the end after two date they were back together. I guess in theory they both never changed enough to where Gia and Jake needed to get to know each again.
One thing that I wish was different.. is the point of view. I like better first point of view books 📚 because it makes it easy to insert myself info the book.
Overral- the book was beautiful. I had fun reading it. I loved the ending with the wedding, the ddreses, the family.
ARC review:
Overall review: 3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶🌶
The book had a good story line.
Brothers best friend is one of my favorite tropes.
Small town romance really gives a family like feeling to the story.
I felt all the emotions Gia was going through. The lost of her brother, Jake, and not having a family that she felt emotionally connected to.
She left to follow her dream with noone to guide her through thw right paths. Never found a good friend until the end, no good boyfriend, and she never went back home.
I like that Jake and her had the connection of losing someone so close them.
The fact he built the house she dreamed of having. The "we are proud of you" from her parents at the end!
I wish their relationship develop more I guess. It felt like they were friends for a long time, she hated him for half of the book, and at the end after two date they were back together. I guess in theory they both never changed enough to where Gia and Jake needed to get to know each again.
One thing that I wish was different.. is the point of view. I like better first point of view books 📚 because it makes it easy to insert myself info the book.
Overral- the book was beautiful. I had fun reading it. I loved the ending with the wedding, the ddreses, the family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
In this captivating story, Gia, a model and actress from a small town, escapes the chaos of Los Angeles and returns home for some much-needed solace. Upon her arrival, she’s warmly welcomed by her older sister. As she settles in, she visits her parents’ restaurant, where she unexpectedly encounters Jake, her brother’s best friend and the man who once broke her heart. The animosity between Gia and Jake is palpable, and his nervousness at seeing her again adds to the tension.
Following an awkward incident, Gia flees to her parents’ house, while Jake sees this as his chance to win her back. Despite her strong feelings of resentment, Gia reluctantly agrees to join him for dinner, leading to a slow-burning tension that is brilliantly portrayed. The intricate layers of their complex relationship, filled with unresolved feelings and a love that feels both familiar and unforgivable, create an emotional depth that kept me so immersed.
The culmination of their relationship unfolds in a powerful confession of love that leaves a lasting impact. This story beautifully captures the tumult of rekindled romance, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys tales of second chances and heartfelt connections.
Following an awkward incident, Gia flees to her parents’ house, while Jake sees this as his chance to win her back. Despite her strong feelings of resentment, Gia reluctantly agrees to join him for dinner, leading to a slow-burning tension that is brilliantly portrayed. The intricate layers of their complex relationship, filled with unresolved feelings and a love that feels both familiar and unforgivable, create an emotional depth that kept me so immersed.
The culmination of their relationship unfolds in a powerful confession of love that leaves a lasting impact. This story beautifully captures the tumult of rekindled romance, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys tales of second chances and heartfelt connections.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This author continues to impress me with her ability to write short romance novels that never feel repetitive. Each story stands on its own, with its own voice, its own struggles, and its own kind of love, and book two in this series is no exception.
While this book does deliver a hard-earned HEA, it does not get there without emotional weight and real-life struggles that give the story depth. What stood out to me most was the way the author once again chose to incorporate meaningful representation around difficult but important topics.
Domestic violence and sexual assault are still heavily stigmatized in many spaces, and survivors are too often viewed through the lens of victimhood rather than strength. I truly appreciate how this story acknowledges that reality while also centering healing and resilience. It feels intentional, respectful, and necessary.
This was not just a romance, but a reminder of survival, growth, and the importance of telling these stories with care.
I can't wait to see what else comes from this series in the future.
While this book does deliver a hard-earned HEA, it does not get there without emotional weight and real-life struggles that give the story depth. What stood out to me most was the way the author once again chose to incorporate meaningful representation around difficult but important topics.
Domestic violence and sexual assault are still heavily stigmatized in many spaces, and survivors are too often viewed through the lens of victimhood rather than strength. I truly appreciate how this story acknowledges that reality while also centering healing and resilience. It feels intentional, respectful, and necessary.
This was not just a romance, but a reminder of survival, growth, and the importance of telling these stories with care.
I can't wait to see what else comes from this series in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you partner, IRIS Influencer Society, and the author, Lily Anh Nam, for the gifted earc. All opinions are my own!
Short Synopsis:
He was her first love… and her worst heartbreak. Hollywood angst collides with small-town charm in this slow-burn, second-chance romance about Gia, a black cat licking her wounds, and Jake, the golden retriever who waited for her to come home.
My Thoughts:
I loved this sweet yet spicy second chance romance about coming home and finding your place in the world. I loved the way the author portrayed Gia’s story and how she was learning to stop running away from her grief. I loved how sweet and protective Jake was of her and how he owned up to his past mistakes. Watching Gia and Jake navigate their past, their pain, and the feelings that never really faded had me hooked from start to finish.
Read this if you like:
💜 Brother's best friend
💜 Second chance
💜 Single Dad
💜 Slow burn
💜 High angst
💜 Open door romance
💜 Meddling/matchmaking
💜 Small town
Short Synopsis:
He was her first love… and her worst heartbreak. Hollywood angst collides with small-town charm in this slow-burn, second-chance romance about Gia, a black cat licking her wounds, and Jake, the golden retriever who waited for her to come home.
My Thoughts:
I loved this sweet yet spicy second chance romance about coming home and finding your place in the world. I loved the way the author portrayed Gia’s story and how she was learning to stop running away from her grief. I loved how sweet and protective Jake was of her and how he owned up to his past mistakes. Watching Gia and Jake navigate their past, their pain, and the feelings that never really faded had me hooked from start to finish.
Read this if you like:
💜 Brother's best friend
💜 Second chance
💜 Single Dad
💜 Slow burn
💜 High angst
💜 Open door romance
💜 Meddling/matchmaking
💜 Small town
June 6, 2026
This was a great read, actually a really quick one, and it took me on a lovely emotional ride.
Crave is about second chances and grief, with a lot of love woven throughout.
Gia is a supermodel who suffers a traumatic event and returns to her family home in a small town. Jake is a single dad, a man with deep abandonment issues but a strong resolve to make everything better for Marley.
Then he finds out that Gia is back in town.
The funny thing is that in small towns, everyone knows each other, so everyone is on his side, trying to help him win her back.
I actually laughed out loud in so many parts (I’m a cat mom, so I completely understood every cat reference), and I even shed a tear in others.
Overall, it’s a sweet story filled with love and beautiful vibes. I really liked every Vietnamese reference and the food descriptions in the book.
Thank you to the author and IRIS for this ARC copy. This is my honest, voluntary review
Crave is about second chances and grief, with a lot of love woven throughout.
Gia is a supermodel who suffers a traumatic event and returns to her family home in a small town. Jake is a single dad, a man with deep abandonment issues but a strong resolve to make everything better for Marley.
Then he finds out that Gia is back in town.
The funny thing is that in small towns, everyone knows each other, so everyone is on his side, trying to help him win her back.
I actually laughed out loud in so many parts (I’m a cat mom, so I completely understood every cat reference), and I even shed a tear in others.
Overall, it’s a sweet story filled with love and beautiful vibes. I really liked every Vietnamese reference and the food descriptions in the book.
Thank you to the author and IRIS for this ARC copy. This is my honest, voluntary review
Review of advance copy
2.5 stars rounding up to 3
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of the book and some spoilers.
It had some good elements (i.e. second chance romance, single dad, friends to lovers) and more serious themes (sexual assault, drug use, grief/loss of a loved one), but overall, I wasn't super impressed.
Some parts of the text were well written like Jake's proposal or scenes when Thao was brought up, but others came off as a bit cringe like "Worst of all, she felt an unmistakable churning in her stomach that most definitely was not gas.”
I did like having a POC FMC. In this case, Gia is Vietnamese. The author brings up Gia's culture in the book from using the Vietnamese words for mom, dad, older sister, etc. to describing different food dishes, but I wished there was more of the culture highlighted.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of the book and some spoilers.
It had some good elements (i.e. second chance romance, single dad, friends to lovers) and more serious themes (sexual assault, drug use, grief/loss of a loved one), but overall, I wasn't super impressed.
Some parts of the text were well written like Jake's proposal or scenes when Thao was brought up, but others came off as a bit cringe like "Worst of all, she felt an unmistakable churning in her stomach that most definitely was not gas.”
I did like having a POC FMC. In this case, Gia is Vietnamese. The author brings up Gia's culture in the book from using the Vietnamese words for mom, dad, older sister, etc. to describing different food dishes, but I wished there was more of the culture highlighted.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author and Iris Infuencer society for the opportunity to read and review this book:
This book had a lot of my favorite tropes: single dad/gaurdian, second chance, brothers best friend, quirky small town, and childhood friends to lovers.
I loved Jake so much, he really shined in this book. He was such a golden retriever and sometimes it’s refreshing to read them in books. I enjoyed his relationship with Mia’s family and how he became a guardian for someone who needed a home.
Mia - I’m not sure I’ve ever read a character quite like her. I appreciated the representation of the non-glamorous side of being famous. I also really liked the authors choice of having Mia not being all sunshine and Positive. The mental health representation was done well as was showing how people handle death and grief differently.
This book had a lot of my favorite tropes: single dad/gaurdian, second chance, brothers best friend, quirky small town, and childhood friends to lovers.
I loved Jake so much, he really shined in this book. He was such a golden retriever and sometimes it’s refreshing to read them in books. I enjoyed his relationship with Mia’s family and how he became a guardian for someone who needed a home.
Mia - I’m not sure I’ve ever read a character quite like her. I appreciated the representation of the non-glamorous side of being famous. I also really liked the authors choice of having Mia not being all sunshine and Positive. The mental health representation was done well as was showing how people handle death and grief differently.
Review of advance copy received from Autor
Thank you Lily Anh for this ARC ✨
Crave was an unexpected surprise. But don’t let the pretty cover fool you.. though it’s really stunning, this story has a lot of drama, trauma, and grief. It was beautiful and sad, hopeful and tense, with childhood friends, heartbreaks, and second chances.
I really enjoyed being in Willowbrook, the picturesque small town with friendly neighbors and a beautiful mountain lake. And reading about Gia and Jake’s story, their friendship and their new relationship, or lack of it. I cried a lot.
Lily Anh wrote such beautiful words, it was hard not to cry.
These are the Tropes you'll find inside this book:
▫️Small Town Vibes
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Second Chances
▫️Childhood Best Friends
▫️Loss & Grief
▫️Single Dad
▫️Mental Health Rep
▫️Black Cat x Golden Retriever
Crave was an unexpected surprise. But don’t let the pretty cover fool you.. though it’s really stunning, this story has a lot of drama, trauma, and grief. It was beautiful and sad, hopeful and tense, with childhood friends, heartbreaks, and second chances.
I really enjoyed being in Willowbrook, the picturesque small town with friendly neighbors and a beautiful mountain lake. And reading about Gia and Jake’s story, their friendship and their new relationship, or lack of it. I cried a lot.
Lily Anh wrote such beautiful words, it was hard not to cry.
These are the Tropes you'll find inside this book:
▫️Small Town Vibes
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Second Chances
▫️Childhood Best Friends
▫️Loss & Grief
▫️Single Dad
▫️Mental Health Rep
▫️Black Cat x Golden Retriever
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75 rounded to 4 stars for me.
After scary encounter Gia decided to leave Los Angeles for the hometown she left years ago.Jack West can't believe that Gia is back,but maybe now is his chance to fix what he broke?
Full of emotions read that was hard to put down.Years passed yet Gia and Jack never really move on,while Gia trying to sort out what she wants,Jack is trying his best to be forgiven.I liked the banter,and Gia didn't make it easy for Jack,but both could not pretend that this attraction it will go away.The plot was interesting and I liked secondary characters,would recommend it for small town romance with little suspense fans.
Thank you author for arc,my review is honest and my own.
After scary encounter Gia decided to leave Los Angeles for the hometown she left years ago.Jack West can't believe that Gia is back,but maybe now is his chance to fix what he broke?
Full of emotions read that was hard to put down.Years passed yet Gia and Jack never really move on,while Gia trying to sort out what she wants,Jack is trying his best to be forgiven.I liked the banter,and Gia didn't make it easy for Jack,but both could not pretend that this attraction it will go away.The plot was interesting and I liked secondary characters,would recommend it for small town romance with little suspense fans.
Thank you author for arc,my review is honest and my own.
June 5, 2026
Gosh, I loved this book! It delivered everything I want in a second-chance romance and more.
Gia has total black cat energy, while Jake is the ultimate golden retriever. Jake has been secretly in love with Gia, his best friend’s sister, for years. But after a heartbreaking tragedy, their relationship completely falls apart. Years later, Gia returns home to heal, determined to focus on herself and definitely not looking for love, especially not with Jake. Of course, fate and the universe have other plans.
If you love second-chance romances, best friend’s sister, a little “who hurt you?” energy, and single dad romances, then you absolutely need to pick this one up. It’s heartfelt, swoony, and impossible to put down!
Gia has total black cat energy, while Jake is the ultimate golden retriever. Jake has been secretly in love with Gia, his best friend’s sister, for years. But after a heartbreaking tragedy, their relationship completely falls apart. Years later, Gia returns home to heal, determined to focus on herself and definitely not looking for love, especially not with Jake. Of course, fate and the universe have other plans.
If you love second-chance romances, best friend’s sister, a little “who hurt you?” energy, and single dad romances, then you absolutely need to pick this one up. It’s heartfelt, swoony, and impossible to put down!
June 5, 2026
Crave by Lily Anh Nam is a slow burn, second-chance romance filled with emotional tension and simmering attraction. Set in the charming small-town world of Willowbrook, we get to meet the FMC Gia, an aspiring actress wanting to make a name for herself, the MMC Jake, her childhood friend and first love. One of the things I liked about this novel is the chemistry between the main characters. Their shared history adds depth to every interaction, making even the smallest moments feel meaningful. Overall, Crave engaging romance that successfully blends second-chance love, angst, and small-town charm into an emotional slow burn that left me wanting more.
I received an ARC copy from IRIS Influencer Society. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to read and voluntarily review this novel!
I received an ARC copy from IRIS Influencer Society. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to read and voluntarily review this novel!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
HEA ✅️
Gia and Jake are an epic second chance, slow burn. The town of Willowbrook is everything you would expect from a small town with a big heart, and when rock bottom sends Gia back home the tension was something you couldn't help but feel. It was nothing like what she expected and learning this couples story tugged at my heart in the best way. Jake is such an amazing guy and he is a man on a mission.
I wanted this book for its cover but I fell in love with the story right away. So glad I grabbed this ARC! Definitely going back to read book one while I wait for book three.
🌶🌶🌶🌶
HEA ✅️
Gia and Jake are an epic second chance, slow burn. The town of Willowbrook is everything you would expect from a small town with a big heart, and when rock bottom sends Gia back home the tension was something you couldn't help but feel. It was nothing like what she expected and learning this couples story tugged at my heart in the best way. Jake is such an amazing guy and he is a man on a mission.
I wanted this book for its cover but I fell in love with the story right away. So glad I grabbed this ARC! Definitely going back to read book one while I wait for book three.
May 30, 2026
Crave is the second installment in the Willowbrook series. The book follows Gia and Jake who I’ve been excited for since reading the Marley’s Mission novella. Their story explores a second chance romance while navigating grief and addiction. Gia is running from the Hollywood lifestyle as an actress and Jake is a new adoptive father to Marley. Their love story is definitely a slow burn but the pay off is so satisfying. I love these characters and the small town feel of the series. I love cats so Lily incorporating saving cats into a book was the cherry on top for me. I can’t wait to see what happens next in Willowbrook.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ADVANCE READER COPY FROM AUTHOR
He was her first love... & her worst heartbreak...
Crave written by @lilyanhnam is a slow-burn. High-angst, second chance romance that completely pulled me in!
Watching Gia & Jake navigate their past, their pain & the feelings that never really faded had me hooked from start to finish 💗
I haven't read anything from Lily Anh Nam before but after this 4 star read I'll be checking out Crash (book one in this series).
I loved how emotional the story made me, I laughed, cried & fell in love with everyone in Willowbrook 💖
If you love emotional small-town romance with tension, healing, & a love that refuses to stay buried, this one is definitely worth the read
He was her first love... & her worst heartbreak...
Crave written by @lilyanhnam is a slow-burn. High-angst, second chance romance that completely pulled me in!
Watching Gia & Jake navigate their past, their pain & the feelings that never really faded had me hooked from start to finish 💗
I haven't read anything from Lily Anh Nam before but after this 4 star read I'll be checking out Crash (book one in this series).
I loved how emotional the story made me, I laughed, cried & fell in love with everyone in Willowbrook 💖
If you love emotional small-town romance with tension, healing, & a love that refuses to stay buried, this one is definitely worth the read
June 25, 2026
I absolutely loved the emotional rollercoaster that this book took me on! The author explores grief, love, healing, and second chances in this beautifully written contemporary romance. Jake and Gia are the perfect example of how sometimes people need time apart to find their way back to each other when they are finally ready to truly accept love. Their story will have you crying, ready to throw punches, laughing, and intensely rooting for their happily ever after.
I highly recommend reading the content warnings for this book as it includes sensitive and graphic content.
Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to read Crave. My review is completely voluntary and my own.
I highly recommend reading the content warnings for this book as it includes sensitive and graphic content.
Thank you so much to the author for the opportunity to read Crave. My review is completely voluntary and my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First time reading small town romance! Admittedly, I believe I have been missing out. This book was beautifully written, the scenery sounded amazing and the characters are loveable!
Gia is a rising Hollywood star, victimised by a Producer that causes her to return back to her hometown where she reminisces on memories full of love, adventure and grief.
Jake is a single father and lawyer that will stop at nothing to get the girl of his dreams back.
If you love second chance romance, he fell first, black cat x golden retriever and small town tropes...then you'll definitely love this!
Gia is a rising Hollywood star, victimised by a Producer that causes her to return back to her hometown where she reminisces on memories full of love, adventure and grief.
Jake is a single father and lawyer that will stop at nothing to get the girl of his dreams back.
If you love second chance romance, he fell first, black cat x golden retriever and small town tropes...then you'll definitely love this!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author.
Rating: 3.5 ⭐️s
I’m giving it 3.5 stars because it took me a while to get into it, it was slow for me but eventually I managed to get a flow into it once that happened I was smooth sailing.
I loved meeting Gia and Jake, being in Willowbrook was an awesome adventure. This book is a second chance love romance, it explores topics of grief, recovery and healing. It was definitely an adventure, I think every girl deserves a Jake, a man that is safe, a man that offers you peace and overall a man that will choose you everyday.
Rating: 3.5 ⭐️s
I’m giving it 3.5 stars because it took me a while to get into it, it was slow for me but eventually I managed to get a flow into it once that happened I was smooth sailing.
I loved meeting Gia and Jake, being in Willowbrook was an awesome adventure. This book is a second chance love romance, it explores topics of grief, recovery and healing. It was definitely an adventure, I think every girl deserves a Jake, a man that is safe, a man that offers you peace and overall a man that will choose you everyday.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really wanted to like this book. I was really intrigued by the concept of it and the tropes and blurb definitely hooked me in.. but it’s written in 3rd person point of view. And unfortunately that’s just not a style I enjoy reading. I don’t think the book is bad by any means I just feel like I would have enjoyed the dual pov if written in 1st person. Even with it being in 3rd person pov I did finish it and was pleased with the ending. I definitely think if you don’t mind this style of storytelling then you’ll enjoy this book.
June 8, 2026
This was such a great second chance romance. When things didn’t work out in the big city, Gia decided to go back to her small town. When she got there she most certainly didn’t expect to run into Jake, the guy that broke her heart. The tension between the two of them was definitely there. But Jake wanted to fix things between them. So he invested her out. It was great to see them slowly connect, to work through the past and come together again. I thought this was a very sweet and fun story and I really entire reading this one.
June 11, 2026
I received an ARC for Crave book 2 in the Willowbrook series. I loved book 1 cant wait for this one.
This is Gia and Jake's story...
Gia is a actress.
Jake is a lawyer.
Giant and Jake grew up together with Gia's twin brother. When they lose her brother in a tragic accident the cross the line Jake says something stupid.
Now 18 years later she is home after a horrible event.
Now she is back in town with the man who broke her heart l. His adopted daughter.
I loves these two together. Jake had alot to make up for but this slow burn was worth it.
Can't wait for more in this series.
This is Gia and Jake's story...
Gia is a actress.
Jake is a lawyer.
Giant and Jake grew up together with Gia's twin brother. When they lose her brother in a tragic accident the cross the line Jake says something stupid.
Now 18 years later she is home after a horrible event.
Now she is back in town with the man who broke her heart l. His adopted daughter.
I loves these two together. Jake had alot to make up for but this slow burn was worth it.
Can't wait for more in this series.
Review of advance copy
Thank you IRIS Influencers for the gifted copy!.
This book is the second in the Willowbrook series, but can be read as a standalone because it centres on different characters each book. So, this setup is MADE for Virgin River fans.
I loved the connection between the 2 characters. The angst and trauma affecting them made the story so genuine and believable!
Really enjoyable and looking forward to the next book!
This book is the second in the Willowbrook series, but can be read as a standalone because it centres on different characters each book. So, this setup is MADE for Virgin River fans.
I loved the connection between the 2 characters. The angst and trauma affecting them made the story so genuine and believable!
Really enjoyable and looking forward to the next book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews