Brooke Takes Queen

by Alaina Erdell

Brooke Staley doesn’t know exactly what happened to icy Elizabeth Bettancourt, but whatever it was hurt her deeply. When Brooke’s boss dies and Elizabeth inherits the Napa Valley resort, she and Brooke immediately clash. Declining profits and escalating operation costs seem to point toward selling the grand estate and grounds, but doing so would put Brooke’s job and the home where she lives with her daughter in jeopardy.

The last thing Elizabeth wants is to run a resort in her hometown of Calistoga where she lost so much thirty-five years ago. Painful memories, broken promises, and a past better left behind? No, thanks. It’s not as if she wants to make Brooke homeless, but there’s no other option.

Neither can deny their attraction, but falling in love will require making peace with the wounds of the past and the uncertainties of the future to save each other, and maybe even the resort, too.

Genres: Romance, Lesbian, Contemporary, Femme Femme, Queer, LGBT, Lesbian Fiction

Kindle Edition

Published January 13, 2026

About the author

Alaina Erdell lives in Ohio with her partner and their crazy but adorable cats. Prior to writing, she worked as a chef. She enjoys painting, experimenting with molecular gastronomy, reading, traveling, and spending time with her beloved nephews.

Reviews

[Menestrella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional journey. Reliving and facing the past in order to build a better future.

Loved it.

ps. I love a good "come back" 🥹, so romantic.

[Clara Addicted to sapphic books · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️The ice queen is one of my favorite tropes, but I don't see many books with them, so thank you, Alaina. Elizabeth and Brooke are the perfect "opposites attract" pairing, and while Brooke is easy to like with a lot on her plate, Elizabeth was such an interesting character! Her backstory made me want to hug her on multiple occasions, and seeing her unable to help herself from caring for Brooke and Rory was so heartwarming. Her interactions with Rory were among my favorite scenes because despite her difficulties with social interactions, especially with kids, their connection implied that Elizabeth was herself on the spectrum, and I found these scenes precious. I just wish I had more time with aloof Elisabeth because she didn't resist Brooke's appeal much, but overall this book was perfectly balanced, with the perfect amount of obstacles. The characters were layered, and Elizabeth's growth was a delight.

[JAYNE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing! Brooke Takes Queen by Alaina Erdell ticks a lot of boxes; I was hooked at ice queen!

Elizabeth is all about work. Inheriting a Napa Valley resort brings her back to a hometown long since left. Her only plan was to wrap things up fast and leave. Brooke Staley is the resort manager residing there with her seven-year-old daughter, Rory. Now that Elizabeth is in charge of the resort, what's in store for them?

The incredible character development of Elizabeth and Brooke is enhanced by their grounded and relatable backstories, adding a rich layer of authenticity and depth. Brooke uses chess as a way to understand Elizabeth underneath the icy façade. As the sparks ignited between them, I held my breath, wishing for a long and happy future.

Would I recommend this book? The cover, the deeply felt, skilfully written romance set against a backdrop that was so beautifully brought to life, completely immersed me in the moment… Absolutely!

Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC in return for my honest review.

[Cherie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a big fan of Erdell’s books. This was a slow burn romance with an ice queen and a bubbly happy woman.
Brooke is the manger of a resort in Napa Valley and the owner has died and Elizabeth has inherited it. Elizabeth comes to the resort to check it out and she and Brooke get off to a rough start. Brooke has young daughter, Rory who steals the show.

To me the writing g style makes the story realistic and enjoyable. Some of the angst Elizabeth feels from her childhood is explained and resolved by the ending but it could have been more elaborated to allow us to get more into her thoughts and feelings. Also we never got a good explanation of Brooke’s marriage to her husband and her switch to being interested in women.

Thanks to Net Galley and BSB for the chance to read and review this ARC.

[Vita L. Licari · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a thoroughly fabulous book! We have Brooke who is the manager of the resort, raising her 7 yr old daughter Rory (who has ASD). When Margaret the owner passes away leaving the resort to Elizabeth.
When the two women meet, the tension is palpable, but when Rory meets Elizabeth the little girl attaches to her. There is a tug and pull as Brooke and Elizabeth get to know one another, especially playing Chess.But, is Elizabeth going to sell, or keep the resort? That determines a lot for Brooke and Rory.
I absolutely love this book! Especially Elizabeth's growth and of course Rory! I highly recommend this book! It is heartwarming, and page turning! A FAVORITE!! Definitely worthy of more than 5 stars!!!

[Leonie · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)

This book was soo good!!! I was really impressed with the way it was written and how it really focused on the characters and also their backstories. Especially Elizabeth’s, where I honestly wish we’d gotten more information about as the story went on. However, I overall really liked the setting, the characters (also the side characters like Brooke’s daughter) and the general vibe of the story.
Moreover, I really liked how the author developed the relationship between Elizabeth and Brooke. It felt very genuine in my opinion and I felt like they really had chemistry. Plus one could easily understand the 3rd act break up (though I have to admit, I’m usually not the type who liked these). And the boss x employee forbidden romance was really nice too!
Before I forget to add, I loved the way chess was included in the story!! It was such a smart and cute way to get the characters to bond 🥺
Besides that, the writing was so good, the pace was nice too though I would’ve loved more depth in Elizabeth’s backstory and maybe some more on Brooke’s too.
Overall, very solid read. I’d recommend especially to those who like a slow burn with a slight initial dislike to love ♡

Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free ARC copy. My review is left honestly and voluntarily.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

"...I want to feel the warmth of standing in your sunbeam. I want to know what it feels like to be loved by you." (p. 237).

Invitingly readable, while still honoring the layered growth of its characters. A story of healing simplified and without all the complexities of the healing process. One of finding grace and forgiveness in oneself and the bravery to exist beyond the chains of trauma. The other, finding stability and a sense of belonging after a recent divorce.

A road to self-discovery. Facing fears, finding courage, and a family lost. This is tender, warm, and emotionally manageable. Elizabeth, stoic, formidable and captivating returns to her hometown, not by choice, but as a result of an unexpected inheritance. It is at the wine country resort where Elizabeth meets general manager Brooke Staley. Bubbly, positive and annoying. A mom of an adorable 7-year-old daughter, Rory, who is “a beam of sunshine.”

Between hours in the resort office, shared wine, and games of chess where moments are seized, Brook gently cracks the queen. She offers empathy and kindness. Confident of the warmth that lays beneath. Intrigued and pulled into the mystery of Elizabeth, both past and present. What follows is an irresistible romance, unexpected yet inevitable, of two women truly seeing one another’s charm.
Unwavering compassion for one and the will to move past painful memories of loss and love from another. "I'm here because I am in love with you." (P.237). The combination is perfectly presented through Erdell’s writing. A story worthy of your time.

Thank you, Netgalley, for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[ReadingwithCaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of those stories that settles in your heart and mind and gives the best book hangover. Melting a closed off ice queen in the middle of the glorious vineyards? A thousand times yes!

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

Elizabeth’s life spins on its axis when out of the blue she inherits a luxury resort in the Napa Valley. The place was a sanctuary in her youth, but going back to it will inevitably dredge up serious childhood trauma. Wounds that Elizabeth is unwilling to scratch open again. She just has to sell the resort and get back to her orderly life in Silicon Valley. She will have to asses the situation on site though to get the best price.

Assistant resort manager Brooke is still mourning the loss of her boss and friend Margaret, when the new owner shows up. The icy, impenetrable (and gorgeous) woman is intent on selling the resort as soon as possible. Not only will Brooke then lose her job, but also the hotel-appartement she and her daughter Rory live in. Brooke is adamant to make sure that doesn’t happen. She will make sure Elizabeth falls in love with the place too.

Brooke is very astute in her appraisal of Elizabeth. She knows exactly what needs to be done to safe her job and her home. Brooke might be upbeat and friendly, she is no pushover. Plus, she kind of relishes the challenge of uncovering the cold exterior of Elizabeth. Not in a player kind of way, but she is genuinely interested in getting to know her. I am so down for that ride! 

The way Elizabeth immediately connects with Rory is such a delight. Rory is on the autism spectrum and where Brooke would expect her to be scared or intimidated by Elizabeth, the exact opposite happens. The flowers! So sweet! They’re probably kindred souls on a particular level. It’s no wonder Brooke can handle and diffuse Elizabeth’s oddities like a pro. As a whole this story has excellent neurodiversity representation.

Alaina Erdell keeps getting better and better with every book. She knows how to write characters that are full humans, flaws and all. They are strong, capable women who face their own fears and trauma and come out even stronger and more irresistible by the time you read The End. Brooke Takes Queen is a beautiful, heartfelt story that will nestle into your heart.

[Lorie Drummond · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a 4.5⭐️ for me, rounded up , as the heart of the story earns it.

This is a warm, layered romance with genuinely likeable characters and a strong, character-driven core. The premise is compelling: a woman inherits a resort in Napa Valley that she intends to sell, while the resort’s manager , a single mother raising a young autistic daughter, has built her entire life around it. From the outset, the stakes are clear and meaningful.

Both main characters carry significant baggage, which is woven thoughtfully into the story. The attraction between them feels natural and unforced, and the novel does an excellent job exploring themes of loss, illness, responsibility, and the vulnerability required to choose connection. Even Elizabeth, who initially comes across as something of an ice queen, is thoughtfully developed and easy to empathize with. The daughter Rory is endearing.

Where the book loses half a star for me is in the final stretch. While the intentions behind the ending are solid, it feels somewhat rushed, with several threads resolved more quickly than I would have liked. I wanted a bit more space to fully absorb how things unfolded.

That said, the writing is strong, the characters are engaging, and the story is genuinely heartwarming. I’m glad I picked it up.

[Women Using Words · Rating 5 out of 5]

An author’s growth rarely arrives with fanfare. More often, it appears quietly, through confident, purposeful choices that extend beyond flashy plots. Readers notice leaner, sharper prose, tighter control and stronger structure that sustains natural tension. Characters are drawn with a discerning eye. They look and feel like real people: their choices seem both inevitable and surprising, their emotions are layered rather than performed, and their world is lived in rather than staged. The most important indicator, though, is trust. They move past explaining emotions and motivations, and let readers connect the dots. In Alaina Erdell’s work, this shift is evident as she moves from trope-centered romances to stories rich in emotional nuance, structure, and thematic resonance.

Brooke Takes Queen, Erdell’s newest romance, clearly shows her growth. She writes with calm confidence and explores deeper, more human themes. The love story intersects family history, responsibility, and unresolved grief tenderly and passionately. Here, romance forms within life’s complications, making the storytelling quite compelling.

Erdell’s approach to conflict is becoming more sophisticated as well. In Brooke Takes Queen, the stakes are rooted in something very personal, resulting in tension that feels organic and sustained, not artificial and convenient. Instead of relying on a single misunderstanding or an external obstacle, she lets tension emerge naturally from the characters’ circumstances and inner lives. Brooke’s fragile livelihood, including her job, her housing, and her daughter’s sense of stability, stands in direct contrast to Elizabeth’s inheritance and her resistance to confronting her painful past. Neither woman is cast as a hero or a villain. Their clash feels inevitable, born of genuine needs and lingering wounds. The development of this kind of conflict shows just how much Erdell’s craft has deepened. The story’s tension exists because the characters are true to themselves, and the storytelling feels more believable and emotionally charged because of it.

Though Erdell has never struggled with the essentials of storytelling, it is growing more compelling, and that is largely due to her character work. In Brooke Takes Queen, it is deeper and more nuanced. She allows desires and flaws to complicate the story in essential ways. This is particularly true for Elizabeth. Her reluctance to run the resort is not simply about obligation; it is tied to the emotional toll of returning to Calistoga after thirty-five years. Painful memories, broken promises, and long-practiced avoidance are not just backstory details; they are active forces shaping her choices. Erdell allows the past to exert pressure without overexplaining, trusting readers to sense its weight. That restraint speaks to a writer who understands that emotional impact often lies in what remains partially unspoken.

Emotional complexity and layered characterization can also be seen in Brooke. Her emotional stakes are equally grounded. Her fears are specific and tangible, rooted in motherhood, financial insecurity, and her sense of professional worth. Romance is not positioned as her only goal, but as one part of a life shaped by competing responsibilities. Love does not simplify her circumstances; it complicates them. This layered approach reflects Erdell’s broader shift toward storytelling that honors the ways people are pulled in multiple directions at once, rather than driven by a single desire. Subtext does a lot of work here, creating a story that lingers rather than sparks sensational drama.

Brooke Takes Queen also highlights the way Erdell weaves setting and theme together. Though they were both strong elements in her debut, Fire, Water, and Rock, they feel more thoughtful and integrated in this book. Here, Harvest Springs Resort, situated in Napa Valley, is more than a scenic backdrop. It represents inheritance, legacy, and the delicate balance between holding on and letting go. The question of whether to sell the estate mirrors the emotional dilemma at the heart of the novel: what do we keep, what do we reject, and what will those choices cost? This kind of thematic echo, where setting reinforces emotional stakes, shows that Erdell is sensitive to narrative cohesion, making Brooke Takes Queen a solidly constructed novel.

Though Erdell has always displayed a strong understanding of story structure, there’s more of a willingness to play with it in this novel. While attraction between Brooke and Elizabeth sparks early, their journey toward love feels slow, uncertain, and earned. The acts of healing, reckoning with the past, and facing uncertainty are treated as necessary steps rather than narrative detours. Intimacy here is built through difficult conversations and shared vulnerability, not convenient resolutions. Erdell doesn’t take emotional shortcuts with their relationship, and the story is stronger for it.
Perhaps the most exciting thing to see in Erdell’s new novel is her growing comfort with ambiguity. The story does not promise neat solutions to the resort’s financial future, to Elizabeth’s grief, or to Brooke’s insecurity. Instead, it suggests that love itself requires risk and difficult choices. Erdell allows uncertainty to linger, trusting readers to sit with tension; she doesn’t rush to reassure them. This willingness to leave things unresolved for a bit is one of the clearest signs of her growth as a writer, making readers all the more curious about what she’ll write next.

Final remarks…
Alaina Erdell has grown from crafting solid, engaging romances into a writer who weaves greater emotional complexity, thematic depth, and character-driven tension into her storytelling. Brooke Takes Queen grapples honestly with love, grief, responsibility, and hope, revealing a romance that leans into quiet moments, messy emotions, and characters who cannot be easily untangled from their pasts. For readers looking for a romance that captures the subtleties of human connection, Brooke Takes Queen embraces its truths and tenderness in equal measure. Those wishing to explore what it means to love and be loved, even when the past looms large, will no doubt enjoy this one.

Strengths…
Well-written
Well-developed, likable characters
Tenderly told
Emotionally honest
Moving and layered
Satisfying read

[lirissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brooke Takes Queen was such a cosy escape. I went in expecting something comforting and that’s exactly what it delivered. From the start, it was an easy world to slip into.

I really enjoyed Elizabeth’s ice queen character. Cold and guarded on the surface, but shaped by grief and loss that slowly unfolds. Watching her past come into focus made her growth especially satisfying. Brooke felt warm and steady in contrast, balancing her job, her home, and co-parenting her daughter with a quiet sense of responsibility.

The love story itself is built through small moments rather than big gestures, which made it feel earned. The spice is minimal but well placed, and the emotional growth carries the story.

Overall, this is a warm, cosy sapphic romance that’s easy to settle into and genuinely comforting to read.

Thank you to NetGalley, Alaina Erdell, and the publisher for providing an ARC of Brooke Takes Queen in exchange for an honest review.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a fan of Alaina Erdell and I quite enjoyed this.

[Ari · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[bookster · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[Siddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth has just inherited a resort in Napa Valley, surrounded by vineyards. She worked there as a teen, and the late owner Margaret was her saviour, helping with her school and encouraging and funding her to go to college. Elizabeth now works as a tax and payroll accountant in Silicon Valley, about two hours away, and hadn’t returned to her hometown for many years because of her bad memories of her life there.
Brooke is general manager of Harvest Springs Resort, a position which she has held for a year, since Margaret became too ill to manage everything herself. She lives onsite in an apartment with her young daughter Rory after her divorce. She is dreading the new owner arriving, and even more dreading if Elizabeth decides to sell the business, as she doesn’t want to put Rory through more complications.
This is a warm and emotional story. Elizabeth is an ice queen, but with an undercurrent of vulnerability, which Brooke picks up on. Brooke will do anything to get Elizabeth to keep the resort, and so goes all out trying to get Elizabeth to like her, and to want to stay. Rory is instantly taken with Elizabeth, but Elizabeth feels fragile around Rory because of her past.
This is an excellent study in interpersonal relationships, how Brooke and Rory slowly make Elizabeth feel wanted. There is a small hiccup in the romance, but eventually there is a wonderful family happily ever after.

[AC · Rating 4 out of 5]

A refreshing, enjoyable read that kept me engaged throughout. I admit my favourite character is the precocious Rory, whose innocence and honesty is endearing as well as entertaining. The author does well showing the characteristics, attributes and challenges Rory presents for Brooke. To me, Rory is the glue that brings all the characters together. No spoilers here.
The depth of the characters were done well, giving me the feeling of connection to the MCs, as a reader.
I would definitely pick up another story by Erdell, just sayin’.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Stroke Books for giving me a new author to read. Opinions are mine, and mine alone.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 stars!

[SJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

🏳️‍🌈Rep: Sapphic, White Cis Bisexual FMC, White Cis Lesbian FMC, Autistic SC/Child

📝Tropes/Themes: Forced Proximity, Single Parent, Opposites Attract, Overcoming Trauma, Ice Queen, Workplace Romance, Grumpy/Sunshine, Return to Hometown

Alaina Erdell has done it again! This story had me feeling all the feels from start to finish and left me wishing I could wrap everyone up in a giant group hug after everything they had been through. As always with Erdell’s books, these characters are multi-dimensional, layered, flawed, messy human beings. Their complexity makes them feel real and brings a depth and richness to the story that pulls you in.

Elizabeth is icy for sure. Her iciness has been her fortress for most of her life, shielding her from any potential pain or heartache or loss. But it’s also kept her from experiencing any kind of real joy or happiness, too. She keeps everyone at arms length, pushing them away if they get too close. She doesn’t even realize how isolated she has made herself and my heart aches for her. She went through so much trauma and loss as a child and she even kept all of that so close to her chest that not even the people closest to her knew. So, when Margaret dies, the woman who basically saved her and helped her become the woman she is, and leaves Elizabeth the resort that was basically her home growing up…well, let’s just say she was utterly unprepared to deal with all the memories and trauma returning would stir up.

It doesn’t help that the resort's manager is not only way too bubbly for Elizabeth’s liking, but also has a daughter that is the same age Elizabeth was when her whole world fell apart. Brooke and Elizabeth do not get off to a great start. It’s a pretty bumpy ride for a while in the beginning. But there is one thing that seems to help - wine and chess in the library. Elizabeth is determined to sell the resort and get out as soon as possible. Brooke is determined to convince Elizabeth to stay so she doesn’t lose her job and her home at the same time.

When Elizabeth’s icy exterior begins to melt it is both heartwrenching and beautiful. They begin to let each other in, to allow themselves to be vulnerable together. But the more those walls melt, the more Elizabeth panics. I don’t normally love third act breakups, unless they make sense to the story and who the characters are - this is one of those cases. Did I want it to happen? Of course not. Did I see it coming and understand why it did? 100%. But facing loss in a different kind of way was exactly what Elizabeth needed in order to unlock the cage she had unknowingly trapped herself inside for decades.

I’ve talked a lot about Elizabeth because her whole character arc was just intense and amazing. But I can’t not talk about Brooke and Rory! Brooke is a woman who carries this incredible, quiet strength I’m not sure she is even aware of. The way she juggles everything in her life between parenting and sharing custody with her ex, her parents and her dad’s declining health, and managing the resort...she is always taking care of everyone and everything around her without questions or complaint. Is she perfect? Not at all. She messes up and forgets things and makes mistakes. But she never stops trying and she never stops smiling. Part of the reason these two are such opposites is because Brooke is always thinking about everyone else’s needs, and Elizabeth is most often focussing on her own needs. But it’s also why they work so well together. They balance each other out in a lot of ways.

And Rory - oh my heart! I love that little girl and she stole the show on more than one occasion. Her interactions with Elizabeth especially. Rory has ASD and Elizabeth definitely seemed like she might be on the spectrum somewhere, too. The way they connected and just seemed to understand each other. Elizabeth wouldn’t have admitted it, but it was apparent how much she cared for Rory pretty early on.

This story was not a light read, but it was most certainly a powerful one. Erdell tackled a lot of intense subjects in this book but she handled them with care and caution. Every past trauma, every moment of angst, every conflict, every emotion, every scene was there for a reason and served a purpose. This story isn’t a story about love that is all sunshine and rainbows. It’s a reminder that love is a verb, not a noun. It’s not always easy, and it comes with a lot of risk. It’s messy and intricate and requires patience and understanding. But that’s what makes it so beautiful when you find someone you would rather risk a world of hurt for than never get a chance to love.

Absolutely recommend this book and Alaina Erdell as an author in general! I still need to go read a couple from her backlist, but I love her writing style and her characters and stories always capture my heart!

Thank you to Alaina, Bold Strokes Books, and NetGalley for the advance copy.

⚠️TW/CW: sexual content, mention of divorce, parent with dementia, death of loved one, mentions of parental death (past), childhood trauma, mentions of foster care, overarching themes of grief and loss

[Mari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth Bettancourt never wanted to return to her hometown, Calistoga, but a resort suddenly left to her in a will does not give her much choice. Her best option is to check on the resort in short a time as she can, sell it, then return to her home in Sillcon valley, back to her orderly and safe life. However, Brooke Staley is a problem. The attraction between the two women is obvious, but Elizabeth has already made her choices. She is not here to stay, and selling the resort means that Brooke and her daughter will lose a home. No matter how this goes, Brooke will resent her in the end. Is starting something with this woman running the resort a bad idea? Or maybe, it is time to face the past and move forward to a new something.

This book was my first book to read in 2026, and I say my reading of 2026 has started with a good book. Each character is flawed in their own way, but Alaina builds the character in a way that the flaw is no longer a flaw, but something that shows the readers that everyone is, in the end, human. And we all need someone, an incident, a choice, to move forward to a future that might bring much more happiness.

Elizabeth’s character growth is one of the main foci in the book. She is depicted as an ice queen (even the queen chess piece on the book cover has an ice like texture). I always jokingly say that a lot of ice queens are on either the neurodivergent spectrum, or just the asshole spectrum. Elizabeth is definitely the former. She is someone on the ASD spectrum, awkward around people, goal/solution focused, yet has a warm heart that she keeps behind walls. This characteristic made me keep cheering for Elizabeth and her happiness. The readers can ‘see’ Elizabeth, not just her actions but her as an entire person. She is no longer a character in the book, but just Elizabeth.

I also enjoyed the interaction between Elizabeth and Rory. I knew that Elizabeth cannot be an asshole the moment she dropped to the floor and dug through the trash to get out Rory’s crayons because she was crying after seeing her crayons gone. How she really saw and remembered what Rory liked to do even if Elizabeth felt awkward and uncomfortable with Rory because the kid reminded her of the past. That cannot be an ice queen on the asshole spectrum. Another thing to mention is that Rory’s depiction was also top tier. Sometimes, children feel as if they are written in a book to serve a purpose, to get the moms closer, or a reason that the two women cannot have a relationship etc. But I didn’t get the vibe Rory was there for a purpose of the author’s. Rory was there as her own person and a child living in the book. I loved that.

Lastly, the thing that struck me, is that nothing is too late if you want to make something right. How Elizabeth finally made the choice to reach for her past, how Brooke’s brother finally decided to reach out to his family and father after avoiding them for years. It is better to be late than to never see your loved ones.

I loved this book, and will definitely be looking forward to more of the author’s books in the future.

I received an ARC from Netgalley for an honest review.

[Jennabeebs79 · Rating 5 out of 5]

California’s wine country shines as the backdrop of this story, offering an ideal setting for Elizabeth, Brooke, and Rory. Rich, evocative descriptions bring the landscape to life, with the resort standing at its heart. For Elizabeth, the resort is steeped in heartrending memories, and her tragic past is portrayed with remarkable care. The emotional depth is truly gut-wrenching—so powerful it left me breathless at times.
Although the book touches on difficult themes, the story never turns dark and instead emphasizes optimism, love, and hope, often with Brooke leading the way. The dialogue feels natural, the pacing is perfectly balanced, and the story flows effortlessly, keeping me fully engaged. The game of chess also plays an important and meaningful role throughout the book.

Elizabeth has built nearly unbreakable walls around herself, keeping everyone at a distance. She’s poured herself into work as a way to bury the trauma of her past, and if ever there were a character who deserved a hug, it’s her.

Brooke is drawn to Elizabeth almost immediately, sensing something beneath the guarded exterior. Her optimism and bright spirit initially grate on Elizabeth, but over time, that warmth begins to soften the ice surrounding her heart. When it finally does, my romantic heart couldn’t help but melt right along with it. Their love story is tender, and the chemistry between them is undeniable.

Brooke’s life comes with its own set of challenges. Her daughter is on the autism spectrum, portrayed with authenticity and care, without ever being reduced to a diagnosis. They’ve found their rhythm together, and Rory is an absolute joy. Brooke is also navigating her father’s dementia, and her mix of acceptance and struggle felt deeply relatable to me. I’m supporting my own dad as he lives with Parkinson’s disease, and I truly understand what she’s facing. The weight of her brother’s absence only adds to the burden she carries. Even so, Brooke remains unfailingly compassionate, loving, and selfless.

Overall, this book is a beautifully told, emotionally rich story about love, healing, and second chances. The characters feel real and easy to connect with, the romance unfolds naturally and with so much heart, and the setting adds a wonderful sense of place throughout the story. What really stands out is how thoughtfully the heavier themes are handled, balancing emotional depth with hope and warmth. This is the kind of book that stays with you after the last page, leaving you with a full heart and a reminder that love and healing can still be found, even after everything.

Check out my complete review at TheLesbianReview.com

[Jessica Jayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ice queens, healing, and a beautiful “love trifle”!

If you love ice queens, hometown romance, tales of healing, chess, adorable children and wine, this book is for you. Alaina Erdell has created a stunningly complex story with incredible, three-dimensional characters who embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing - not just for themselves and for those they love.

The story follows the deeply wounded ice-queen Elizabeth Bettancourt and the optimistic “cinnamon roll” Brooke Staley. When Elizabeth suddenly inherits a Napa Valley resort, she is forced to return to her hometown of Calistoga, much to her dismay. The town is full of tragic demons and ghosts from her past and staying there isn’t an option; she plans to assess the resort and sell as soon as possible. What she didn’t bank on was meeting the beautiful, kind-hearted general manager, Brooke, and her precious 7-year-old daughter, Rory. Through them, Elizabeth begins a journey of healing and self-reflection, starting a chain reaction that finally frees her from decades of pain.

I won’t lie, it took me a while to get into the swing of the story, but after about six chapters, I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. The way the plot unfolded surprised me multiple times. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked up this book—perhaps a cookie-cutter “ice-queen” romance—but it was so much more. The story was captivating, complex, and authentic; it was so heart-wrenching at times that I legit started tearing up in some places. I truly loved the way Alaina kept adding layers to every character, including the secondary cast and the location itself, which felt like a character in its own right. It became the most delicious, genuine, and realistic "love trifle" a sapphic reader could desire.

I can’t recommend this book highly enough; it’s absolutely brilliant. Even though the story was tied up nicely with a little bow, I would inhale any future books starring Brooke and Elizabeth. The stunning character development, setting, authenticity, ASD representation, and the many types of love radiating throughout the pages was a thing of true beauty, albeit at times painful yet cathartic.

P.S. I hope Alaina writes a spin off novel about Brooke’s best friend, Tiffany, one day - she was a hoot and a half.

[Rach · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was interesting read, Elizabeth inherits a hotel in wine county, she works in software in silicon Valley and has no idea how to run a hotel! However it brings her back to her family home along with a past of trauma related grief. Brooke the hotels manager along with her 7 year old neuro divergent daughter live and work in the hotel that she is desperately trying to save and tries to persuade Elizabeth not to sell it. You see Brooke whose sunshine personality start to melt the uptight new owner.

This was enjoyable, learning about both characters, Rory, the hotel, Brooke’s family. Elizabeth trauma did change her and her direction in life, also there is a hint that Elizabeth may also have neurodivergent traits. Plus there are some enjoyable moments with chess and hot air balloons.

I adored Rory and enjoyed the growing story between the two women, and an attraction that is clearly visible by both women however Elizabeth runs hot and cold. She gives herself then quite literally runs away.

My only criticism is that the book in places felt very slow, and the suddenly when getting closer to the end areas felt rushed. I felt Elizabeth trauma was over used considering it was more than 30 years ago, I appreciate you may never get over the said trauma but at times it stunted her as a character giving me very little to like about her and Brooke is very understanding I am not sure I would have had her patience nor held my tongue as much!

The book is almost in three parts and the most interesting areas really are at over 80%. I would have liked some of this sooner to open Elizabeth emotionally up a bit more you see brighter lights coming through when she is with Rory which is lovely.

I would recommend, it’s well written and overall a very good story but for me I found this at times hard to get into and also hard to like Elizabeth at times. I have not read this author before so I will now take a read at some of her previous titles! I was given an opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review, thank you NetGalley and Bold Stroke inc.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always love a book where the main characters have a lot of baggage to process before they are ready to move on, a lot of angst involved, and this story had that and so much more. I loved the writing and both Elizabeth and Brooke were three-dimensional characters, described with so much love and as a bonus Brooke’s daughter Rory, clearly written by an author that understands and loves children.

Elizabeth inherits a resort by Margaret, someone that supported her in the past when she struggled. This extremely successful financial professional takes a leave from her job to go there to understand the business and trying to sell as soon as possible. Things do not quite go as planned since the general manager Brooke and her daughter Rory slowly grow on her and perhaps can penetrate the walls she has built after losing her family when she was the same age as Rory. It is clear from the start that Elizabeth is very complex and does not always understand the social cues, it is all black and white until she meets Brooke. Just like Rory she probably is on the ASD spectrum, like I assume most ice queens are.

Brooke is a more easy-going character, but she also has her struggles after her divorce, being a single parent, trying to combine raising Rory with a career and dealing with a dad with dementia. There has not been much time for a love life, but she realizes that Elizabeth is so much more than her surface. They slowly get to know each other while playing chess and drinking wine and when they move that to an actual relationship it is something you really root for, it is something special.

But do they have a chance to make this work long term? Brooke is pushing Elizabeth to finally face her demons, and Elizabeth has in her power to both make sure Brooke loses her apartment and job if she sells the resort.

I received a free ARC via NetGalley and leave an honest review voluntarily.

[vivi ʚɞ · Rating 5 out of 5]

⋆˙✮ 5

Checkmate♟️

I don’t know if I was just in the perfect mood to read this, but I absolutely loved it. There’s just something about emotionally wounded characters that I can’t help but love, and Elizabeth checks that box a thousand percent. So yes, I was absolutely seated for this book.

After experiencing enough pain and heartache to last a lifetime, Elizabeth returns to her hometown of Calistoga after inheriting a resort from a former mentor of sorts. There, she meets the general manager of the resort, Brooke, and her daughter Rory. What started out as a simple plan to sell the resort quickly turns into something more, leaving Elizabeth conflicted as she simultaneously faces her past and starts to build a relationship with Brooke and Rory.

I loved the inclusion of chess, how it tied into the story, and how it circles back to the title of the book. The after-work games were such a neat way to bring the two together. As for the characters themselves, Elizabeth is your typical ice queen—which, by my very unofficial definition, often reads as someone who’s neurodivergent lol. It’s probably why Rory, who’s on the autism spectrum, seemed to gravitate toward her throughout the entire book. Then, there’s sweet, hardworking Brooke who always has something on her plate but doesn’t let it stop her from having a positive outlook on things. Together they were just so so cute, and I just absolutely love when characters try to resist the attraction between each other.

Oh, I also cried btw. This book did really well with the character development and side plots. Nothing ever felt out of order or like it was only there as filler; it really enhanced the story for me and allowed me to connect more with both Elizabeth and Brooke. They both were going through it…

I recommend this to anyone who likes ice queens, “workplace” romances, and grumpyxsunshine tropes with an emotional backstory!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC. All thoughts are my own.

[Jonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this chess-centered book about an ice queen who unexpectedly inherits a hotel in wine country and the single mom manager of said property.

Elizabeth is a delicious ice queen. Forged in the fires of childhood trauma, she has grown into a professionally-focused woman who keeps everyone at arms length. While we give Brooke the credit for “melting” her, I think it’s Brooke’s daughter Rory who did the hard lifting here. Brooke and her ex-husband co-parent Rory, who is a delightful 7 year old on the autism spectrum. Rory had been having a hard time adjusting to the divorce and life changes that necessitated, but Elizabeth somehow makes Rory feel safe instantaneously. This comes as a surprise to all the adults and yet it works, giving Elizabeth an opportunity to interact with children again and providing additional opportunities for different interactions for our protagonists early on.

There was a lot to love in this book. In addition to enjoying the characters map out their complicated and uncertain relationship trajectory, I also very much appreciated the subtle and realistic portrayal of Rory’s autism. Elizabeth’s personal journey was also incredibly well-done. Brooke encouraged her to open her world up to see if she could have more and watching Elizabeth navigate her own truth and history was at once painful and revelatory.

For those of you playing Jae’s bingo this year, there is a supportive ex, and this is definitely a golden retriever/black cat couple.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Publishing for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brooke Staley and her 7 year old daughter Rory live at a resort in Napa Valley that she manages. Elizabeth Bettancourt inherits the resort and arrives from her job in Silicon Valley. She is a numbers oriented, ice queen. She worked at the resort in her teens but doesn’t really see how it fits in with her life now. Brooke is sunshine compared to Elizabeth’s analytical approach. But I like that both are smart, good at their jobs and understand their own needs. Brooke invites Elizabeth to a nightly game of chess slowly opening up a friendship door. Rory, who has ASD, accepts Elizabeth easily and talks to her. The implication is that Elizabeth is also ASD.

Elizabeth’s background shapes a lot of who she is and is a good part of the story. Brooke’s stresses are more present day. But both seek comfort from each other. I really enjoyed how the author shows little steps of change or struggles as the pair navigate being together. I really found the story beautifully written. I found the depictions of neurodivergence were realistic as was dealing with a parent with dementia. I loved how chess was a reoccurring theme clear until the last lines.

I have read and enjoyed all of the author’s books. They are always thoughtful and provoking. And I remember her characters long after I finish the story. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.

[Shannon Luchies · Rating 4 out of 5]

Financial officer Elizabeth Bettancourt is shocked to find out she has inherited a Napa Valley resort, Harvest Springs. She also hasn't been back there in twenty years and has a painful history there.

Brooke Staley has ran the resort for the past year, and needs this job, both for money and for the on site apartment she shares with her young daughter Rory. Elizabeth assumes she's just Margaret's assistant, not the manager, and acts cold and stiff. Also, Elizabeth isn't happy with the finances and that Brooke is living there free.

Elizabeth, surprisingly, is liked by Rory even tho shes seeningly freaked out by kids. Also, Brooke is dealing with health issues with her Dad (memory loss of some sort). As she reviews the resorts bills, Brooke invites her to the library to play chess after work.

Being back here triggers nightmares for Elizabeth, and she tells her tragic backstory to Brooke. They nearly sleep together, but Elizabeth pulls back. She's the boss, it's unethical.

They keep flirting (and Brooke points out she's a subcontractor) and eventually they do sleep together. But Elizabeth still seems intent on selling. And Brooke pushes her on finding out what happened to her adopted sisters, which doesn't go well.

Third act breakup.

Wrap up, reunited, conclusion.

Good writing, interesting characters, good resolution i did feel the wrap up could have worked just as well without the breakup, but that's me.

3.5 out of 5 stars, rounded up to 4.

[Jamie R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Alaina Erdell’s way of story telling. She draws you in with such real and multi layered characters. She has a way of describing scenery that enables me to visualize the story as I read it.

Brooke and Elizabeth are each couples in their own way. While Elizabeth tries to have an icy exterior, her soft insides are leak through. She has lived through difficult life experiences and has tried her best to harden herself for protection from further loss and pain. She has taken on far too much responsibility for things that happened when she was a young child and keeps people at a distance as a result.

Brooke is a single mom with an adorable young daughter. She strives to be independent and has a warmth that naturally radiates from her. When the two meet after Elizabeth inherits a winery in the Napa Valley, they clash and tension builds. Elizabeth sees numbers and the bottom line where Brooke sees people and ways to manage things from a caring perspective. She doesn’t know what has happened to make Elizabeth so closed off and aloof. Against what either of them wants, their attraction builds as they navigate running the resort. Will they be able to overcome the divide and trust enough to allow their feelings to grow?

I really enjoyed this story and found myself liking both MC’s as well as the side characters that added to the storyline.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the arc.

[Jen Lyon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alaina Erdell is already an auto-buy for me, so it is no surprise that I thoroughly enjoyed her latest release. Like all of Erdell's books, this character-driven plot is full of wonderfully imperfect, yet truly likeable characters. Even, yes, gasp, Elizabeth as an ice queen.
Often, I find ice queens so truly repellent that it's hard to understand why a character would fall in love with them. I'm happy to say, that is not the case here. As frosty as Elizabeth is, it's never puzzling why Brooke is attracted to her—and why she pursues the relationship. (Though, admittedly, there are several moments where I wanted to reach through the book and slap some sense into Elizabeth—proof of excellent character development).
Another guarantee in Erdell's books is that they will never just be cookie-cutter, a-b-c romances. There are always difficult topics explored. Pages that hurt. Hearts that need mending. Exactly what I am looking for in a plotline.
I also loved the bisexual inclusion without a song and dance explaining why Brooke was into both men and women. Just real, normalized representation. Exactly as it should be.
Oh, and that title? Perfection.
I definitely enjoyed this journey. Rory was a highlight!
So yes, definitely, highly recommended.

(Thank you to the author and publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review).

[This · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. It contains a lot of the tropes that I seem to enjoy the most. Ice Queen, fighting the attraction (not quite enemies to lovers), the Ice Queen finding that the biggest thing standing in the way of happiness is herself, a hefty dose of childhood trauma including the death of parents, dementia (a different form of grief and loss), and ASD (I realise that is not a trope).
Now reading that list, you might think it sounds like a bog standard formulaic story - but it most certainly is not. For starters there is chess and hot air balloons. You need to add in a few unexpected additions and twists, humour, clever word play that might start with the title but there will be more, a drop of informal therapy, and a large dollop of Erdell magic and you have a book that will now be added to the paper copies on my sapphic bookcase.
Want to know what the actual story is about now? Well, I suggest you read it. I will say that Elizabeth inherits the resort that Brooke manages. Elizabeth intends to sell up and return home as soon as she can because she grew up in the area and being there is traumatic for her. Needless to say it does not go to plan.

Thanks to the publisher for an ARC - this is an honest review.