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Strawberry Springs #3
As I Grow
He never sticks around. She makes him want to.
Grace Day is Strawberry Springs’ designated “good girl.” Her people-pleasing tendencies have kept her out of the rumor mill, which is exactly where she wants to stay. But when a hot-as-hell playboy in a cowboy hat blows into town, she’s tempted to do something out of character. When one night with no attachments turns into two nights and feelings she can’t ignore, Grace realizes that she’s set herself up for heartbreak. After he leaves town as promised, she realizes that she’ll be left to pick up the pieces on her own…until she sees two lines on a pregnancy test.
Dean Briggs keeps everyone at an arm’s length, and he’s really good at it. He never lets himself get attached to his hookups—though he struggles to get a certain curvy woman with soft brown curls out of his mind. When she finds him and tells him that she’s pregnant with his baby, he realizes that there’s no keeping his distance this time. He’s determined to be there for the mother of his child, but he’s been scarred by love before, and that’s a risk he’s not willing to take.
As her due date approaches, Grace and Dean have to decide what life looks like with each other in it. Will they retreat into old patterns to protect themselves, or can they grow into something more?
As I Grow is a small-town, accidental pregnancy romance novel with the reformed playboy and forced proximity tropes, set in the town of Strawberry Springs. It’s the third in a series of interconnected standalone novels.
Grace Day is Strawberry Springs’ designated “good girl.” Her people-pleasing tendencies have kept her out of the rumor mill, which is exactly where she wants to stay. But when a hot-as-hell playboy in a cowboy hat blows into town, she’s tempted to do something out of character. When one night with no attachments turns into two nights and feelings she can’t ignore, Grace realizes that she’s set herself up for heartbreak. After he leaves town as promised, she realizes that she’ll be left to pick up the pieces on her own…until she sees two lines on a pregnancy test.
Dean Briggs keeps everyone at an arm’s length, and he’s really good at it. He never lets himself get attached to his hookups—though he struggles to get a certain curvy woman with soft brown curls out of his mind. When she finds him and tells him that she’s pregnant with his baby, he realizes that there’s no keeping his distance this time. He’s determined to be there for the mother of his child, but he’s been scarred by love before, and that’s a risk he’s not willing to take.
As her due date approaches, Grace and Dean have to decide what life looks like with each other in it. Will they retreat into old patterns to protect themselves, or can they grow into something more?
As I Grow is a small-town, accidental pregnancy romance novel with the reformed playboy and forced proximity tropes, set in the town of Strawberry Springs. It’s the third in a series of interconnected standalone novels.
508 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2026
123 people are currently reading
795 people want to read
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Review of advance copy received from Author
I adore Strawberry Springs, and coming back to this world feels so good! (But Kerry, girl, you need to get a grip).
Anyway, this time we're following Grace, the owner of the clothes shop in town, and Dean, an electrician helping Wren get Theo's coffee shop up and running. Sparks are flying from the very beginning and you just know these two were made to be together—but they have to work for it, and quite right too, it would be too easy and boring otherwise, and we need some growth, people!
I adore all the work they both do on their respective issues and how we get to see different sides of grief and how it can affect you even when you do not realise it. Dean's growth is exceptional here, and I was in awe of how he worked through his issues to make sure he stepped up when it mattered. And Grace, oh girl, as an eldest daughter I related so much. The pressure never goes away, but you have to somehow make it despite and around it. I was clapping when she came into her power when it mattered the most (Brooke just sucks, we can all agree on that, right?). On top of all the serious stuff, this has just the right amount of spice to complement the story rather than overshadow it.
The town is still the same town we know from the previous instalments, though I expected it to have grown a bit more by this time. One can never have everything, I guess. I am soooo curious about the STM grant (I have my suspicions, but who knows if we will ever find out?).
I can't wait for the next one, especially since it looks like our boy Theo is finally shaken!
Thank you to Elle and Literary Rising for the ARC!
Anyway, this time we're following Grace, the owner of the clothes shop in town, and Dean, an electrician helping Wren get Theo's coffee shop up and running. Sparks are flying from the very beginning and you just know these two were made to be together—but they have to work for it, and quite right too, it would be too easy and boring otherwise, and we need some growth, people!
I adore all the work they both do on their respective issues and how we get to see different sides of grief and how it can affect you even when you do not realise it. Dean's growth is exceptional here, and I was in awe of how he worked through his issues to make sure he stepped up when it mattered. And Grace, oh girl, as an eldest daughter I related so much. The pressure never goes away, but you have to somehow make it despite and around it. I was clapping when she came into her power when it mattered the most (Brooke just sucks, we can all agree on that, right?). On top of all the serious stuff, this has just the right amount of spice to complement the story rather than overshadow it.
The town is still the same town we know from the previous instalments, though I expected it to have grown a bit more by this time. One can never have everything, I guess. I am soooo curious about the STM grant (I have my suspicions, but who knows if we will ever find out?).
I can't wait for the next one, especially since it looks like our boy Theo is finally shaken!
Thank you to Elle and Literary Rising for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I always look forward to returning to Strawberry Springs. Small towns have such a charm about them and having grown up in one, I do prefer them over big cities.
Elle never fails to delight me with her beautiful work. She takes the time to really think out her characters, and makes them come to life.
I love how Grace's story played out, and I am thrilled to finally have some PCOS representation! It makes the story more real, and helps people relate to the characters better. Not to mention it allows people going through the same thing feel seen.
I love the character development for everyone over the three books in this series, and I especially love the Easter Eggs she's been hiding in her writing. I remember screaming internally because I think I have a clue as to who the STM grant is, but my lips are sealed!
Thank you to Literary Rising and Elle of course for the ARC. I appreciate the opportunity so so much!
Elle never fails to delight me with her beautiful work. She takes the time to really think out her characters, and makes them come to life.
I love how Grace's story played out, and I am thrilled to finally have some PCOS representation! It makes the story more real, and helps people relate to the characters better. Not to mention it allows people going through the same thing feel seen.
I love the character development for everyone over the three books in this series, and I especially love the Easter Eggs she's been hiding in her writing. I remember screaming internally because I think I have a clue as to who the STM grant is, but my lips are sealed!
Thank you to Literary Rising and Elle of course for the ARC. I appreciate the opportunity so so much!
February 1, 2026
Thank you to Elle Rivers and Literary Rising for a copy of this book.
Grace Day is Strawberry Springs’ designated “good girl.” Her people-pleasing tendencies have kept her out of the rumor mill, which is exactly where she wants to stay. But when a hot-as-hell playboy in a cowboy hat blows into town, she’s tempted to do something out of character. When one night with no attachments turns into two nights and feelings she can’t ignore, Grace realizes that she’s set herself up for heartbreak. After he leaves town as promised, she realizes that she’ll be left to pick up the pieces on her own…until she sees two lines on a pregnancy test. Dean Briggs keeps everyone at an arm’s length, and he’s really good at it. He never lets himself get attached to his hookups—though he struggles to get a certain curvy woman with soft brown curls out of his mind. When she finds him and tells him that she’s pregnant with his baby, he realizes that there’s no keeping his distance this time. He’s determined to be there for the mother of his child, but he’s been scarred by love before, and that’s a risk he’s not willing to take. As her due date approaches, Grace and Dean have to decide what life looks like with each other in it. Will they retreat into old patterns to protect themselves, or can they grow into something more?
I absolutely adore Grace and see so much of myself in her. A chronic people pleaser who puts everyone before herself even if it’s dragging her down, whilst suffering with PCOS, is part of my description as a human being. I was so excited to read everything from her POV and absolutely loved how others saw her as well. Everything was handled with care and pride and love, making Grace this embodiment of literal sunshine that I wanted to squeeze. To have a friend like Grace and been seen like that is a dream!
Dean was very much set in his ways as a playboy. Props to him, he laid everything out from the beginning about what he did and did not want. So many people were framing him as this villain who would swoop in and ruin lives before running away and that wasn’t the case at all. God forbid someone sets clear boundaries and someone refuses to accept them! I loved seeing this path of growth that Dean went on - not just growth in himself and his personality but also this journey of acceptance and healing from his past. He’s incredibly soft on the inside and the way he handled every situation that arose was a massive green flag!
With each book of this series, I fall more in love with these cooky and wonderful small town vibes. I love that we get to see more of the town with each book - and this one is no exception! The plot is fantastic, bringing brilliant rep to those who suffer with PCOS whilst also keeping things lighthearted and funny. The way every chapter starts with the town discussing things on Facebook was my favourite because it gave an insight into how the unfolding events were impacting people outside of the immediate bubble! And with it being a small town, we get to see a lot of people popping in and out which is always interesting - certainly keeps the reader on their toes! I did really like seeing people outside of Strawberry Springs as well as it helped open the world up even further. The romance was slow in the beginning, deliberately slow considering things were initially driven by lust. But I absolutely adored how things gradually developed between our main duo. The way it was unexpectedly emotional as the pair faced their past and behaviours to become what they did. Chef’s kiss! And Rivers has a brilliant gift at writing spicy scenes too so they’re engaging but also smokin’ hot! Even with the moments that are quick and freaky, they count instead of feeling like a pump and dump! No one enjoys those… And that ending. I found myself tearing up with how perfect it was. All I could have wanted for this duo happened for them! And a possible sneak peak for the next couple? Sold!
Overall, As I Grow is a brilliant third instalment to this series that features some very important rep.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you again to Elle Rivers and Literary Rising for a copy of this book.
Grace Day is Strawberry Springs’ designated “good girl.” Her people-pleasing tendencies have kept her out of the rumor mill, which is exactly where she wants to stay. But when a hot-as-hell playboy in a cowboy hat blows into town, she’s tempted to do something out of character. When one night with no attachments turns into two nights and feelings she can’t ignore, Grace realizes that she’s set herself up for heartbreak. After he leaves town as promised, she realizes that she’ll be left to pick up the pieces on her own…until she sees two lines on a pregnancy test. Dean Briggs keeps everyone at an arm’s length, and he’s really good at it. He never lets himself get attached to his hookups—though he struggles to get a certain curvy woman with soft brown curls out of his mind. When she finds him and tells him that she’s pregnant with his baby, he realizes that there’s no keeping his distance this time. He’s determined to be there for the mother of his child, but he’s been scarred by love before, and that’s a risk he’s not willing to take. As her due date approaches, Grace and Dean have to decide what life looks like with each other in it. Will they retreat into old patterns to protect themselves, or can they grow into something more?
I absolutely adore Grace and see so much of myself in her. A chronic people pleaser who puts everyone before herself even if it’s dragging her down, whilst suffering with PCOS, is part of my description as a human being. I was so excited to read everything from her POV and absolutely loved how others saw her as well. Everything was handled with care and pride and love, making Grace this embodiment of literal sunshine that I wanted to squeeze. To have a friend like Grace and been seen like that is a dream!
Dean was very much set in his ways as a playboy. Props to him, he laid everything out from the beginning about what he did and did not want. So many people were framing him as this villain who would swoop in and ruin lives before running away and that wasn’t the case at all. God forbid someone sets clear boundaries and someone refuses to accept them! I loved seeing this path of growth that Dean went on - not just growth in himself and his personality but also this journey of acceptance and healing from his past. He’s incredibly soft on the inside and the way he handled every situation that arose was a massive green flag!
With each book of this series, I fall more in love with these cooky and wonderful small town vibes. I love that we get to see more of the town with each book - and this one is no exception! The plot is fantastic, bringing brilliant rep to those who suffer with PCOS whilst also keeping things lighthearted and funny. The way every chapter starts with the town discussing things on Facebook was my favourite because it gave an insight into how the unfolding events were impacting people outside of the immediate bubble! And with it being a small town, we get to see a lot of people popping in and out which is always interesting - certainly keeps the reader on their toes! I did really like seeing people outside of Strawberry Springs as well as it helped open the world up even further. The romance was slow in the beginning, deliberately slow considering things were initially driven by lust. But I absolutely adored how things gradually developed between our main duo. The way it was unexpectedly emotional as the pair faced their past and behaviours to become what they did. Chef’s kiss! And Rivers has a brilliant gift at writing spicy scenes too so they’re engaging but also smokin’ hot! Even with the moments that are quick and freaky, they count instead of feeling like a pump and dump! No one enjoys those… And that ending. I found myself tearing up with how perfect it was. All I could have wanted for this duo happened for them! And a possible sneak peak for the next couple? Sold!
Overall, As I Grow is a brilliant third instalment to this series that features some very important rep.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you again to Elle Rivers and Literary Rising for a copy of this book.
January 24, 2026
ARC Review:
I am loving this series.
“As I grow” is the third book in the series of Strawberry springs. This is the perfect cosy read with some good flirting.
The accidental pregnancy trope is sometimes not my cup of tea, but Elle Rivers pulled it off. There was no rushed beginning to get to the spicy part. Everything had a very good flow throughout the book. The ups and downs of pregnancy were represented perfectly.
I love the banter and flirting between Dean and Grace. The underlying theme of found family and standing up for yourself is brought up beautifully throughout the book.
You really go on this journey with Grace as she figures out being pregnant, living in a small town and managing her relationships. She starts to learn that family does not always mean related by blood and that they can be the ones who take advantage of her the most. The escalation in the relationship with her sister fit in perfectly with the storyline and the character development.
I actually have no notes. If you love cosy reads with spice, please go and read this book and this entire series.
I am loving this series.
“As I grow” is the third book in the series of Strawberry springs. This is the perfect cosy read with some good flirting.
The accidental pregnancy trope is sometimes not my cup of tea, but Elle Rivers pulled it off. There was no rushed beginning to get to the spicy part. Everything had a very good flow throughout the book. The ups and downs of pregnancy were represented perfectly.
I love the banter and flirting between Dean and Grace. The underlying theme of found family and standing up for yourself is brought up beautifully throughout the book.
You really go on this journey with Grace as she figures out being pregnant, living in a small town and managing her relationships. She starts to learn that family does not always mean related by blood and that they can be the ones who take advantage of her the most. The escalation in the relationship with her sister fit in perfectly with the storyline and the character development.
I actually have no notes. If you love cosy reads with spice, please go and read this book and this entire series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2026
Here we go again with an absolute BANGER. I am such a sucker for a small town romance, and this one being the third (with definite room for more) installment in the Strawberry Springs series, it really drew me in completely. Accidental pregnancy is a trope that I sometimes struggle with, but I guess I should say “surprise” pregnancy. This one was not a surprise beforehand, and everything worked out beautifully. Dean and Grace were the picture of perfection. I always finish these books thinking I want them to just go on forever.
February 13, 2026
i saw accidental pregnancy and pcos rep and immediately requested this
this was so good i really loved the small town dynamics everyone was so funny
i really liked the relationship progression between dean and grace. from strangers to friends to lovers?? the way he learned to communicate and finally give into caring for others >
this was so good i really loved the small town dynamics everyone was so funny
i really liked the relationship progression between dean and grace. from strangers to friends to lovers?? the way he learned to communicate and finally give into caring for others >
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am utterly obsessed with the Strawberry springs series. Books 1 & 2 did not disappoint and neither did book 3!
I was hooked from start to finish. I loved the depth that all the characters had as well as the changes that went on throughout the book. I felt it all led to a wonderful ending and I could not put the book down!!
I was hooked from start to finish. I loved the depth that all the characters had as well as the changes that went on throughout the book. I felt it all led to a wonderful ending and I could not put the book down!!
January 25, 2026
This is an ARC review: I was very excited for the opportunity to read the third book in this series and it did not disappoint.
Although the tropes in this book aren’t necessarily ones I would go for normally, I finished this book in one day.
The characters are relatable, each in their own way. These are fun and easy reads with happy endings, but there is a space for heavier subjects. The author makes it work every time. Hopefully this is not the last book about Strawberry Springs.
Elle Rivers knows what she is doing and I look forward to read more of her books. Definitely would recommend.
Although the tropes in this book aren’t necessarily ones I would go for normally, I finished this book in one day.
The characters are relatable, each in their own way. These are fun and easy reads with happy endings, but there is a space for heavier subjects. The author makes it work every time. Hopefully this is not the last book about Strawberry Springs.
Elle Rivers knows what she is doing and I look forward to read more of her books. Definitely would recommend.
Review of advance copy
Back in Strawberry Springs with Grace and Dean. As before, the small town vibes and cast of characters were fun. Grace and Dean had great chemistry and banter. I loved both of their character growth. Grace had so much to overcome and Dean grew from his playboy persona.
February 20, 2026
Thank you to Elle and Literary Rising for the ARC! This was such a cute small town pregnancy trope read. It definitely gave me Gilmore Girl vibes with the found family and meddling neighbors. The romance had a nice progression, but there is a bit of miscommunication. I liked that both the main characters had some friends to talk some sense into them and it doesn’t last too long.
January 21, 2026
Oh my goshhhhh! Holy swoon! Grace and Dean were so cute. The facebook group post had me cracking up!
So excited to have received an arc copy. I will be going back to read this series from the beginning for sure 🙂↕️
So excited to have received an arc copy. I will be going back to read this series from the beginning for sure 🙂↕️
February 7, 2026
ACR review 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Another great book in this series!!
It just keeps on getting better 🤩❤️
Another great book in this series!!
It just keeps on getting better 🤩❤️
March 6, 2026
i hate pregnancy books what am i even doing here
January 28, 2026
ARC review! I was blessed with an advanced copy and this was such a fun story to read! The last minute drama scared me! It concluded faster than I wanted with unexpected results that I just loved. I read well over half this book in one day as a working only parent to two special needs littles so that was a feat! Highly recommend you give Grace and Dean a shot!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thanks to Elle Rivers and Literary Rising for the Arc.
4.5 Stars
2/5 Spice
I would like to start off by saying that I absolutely LOVED this book. I love an accidental pregnancy trope so much for some reason. Which is odd considering my biggest fear right now is having a baby. I thought the characters were fantastic, I thought the atmosphere was funny, and over all I had a great time reading it and I have been recommending it to everyone.
My favorite parts of this series, besides the obvious relationship, has to be the group posts at the beginning of each chapter. I thought they were HILARIOUS. I love them so much and I highlight almost all of them.
I really loved Grace and Dean and how they grew and how their relationship changed. I also loved how much the town showed they cared for Grace.
I love this book so much and the world Elle has created.
A review after the release date will be forthcoming with more of my thoughts but rest assured they are all good.
Edit when book released 2/20
ANYWAYS
I loved this book so much. I stayed up until 4 in the morning (when I had to be up at 8:30 the next morning) to finish it. I simply couldn’t put it down and I couldn’t find it in me to put it down. The world that Elle Rivers has created in Strawberry Springs is so so so adorable and I wish I lived there.
The plot of this novel was so simple and done so well. It is two consenting adults have a little fun and then having to deal with side effects of said fun. I thought the way the two people grew into themselves and out of their issues was done really well and I appreciated the way the people-pleasing tendencies were covered. I also loved how the two came together in the end, although this being a romance novel it was fully expected, it was super entertaining and fun to read about along the way.
Dean, my guy, I love you so so much. I really do. I think you are fantastic. The only reason this book didn’t get a full five stars is because of you. I wish so badly that all that could have either been avoided or something but later on in the book it all made a lot more sense which helped your case.
Grace, I am so glad you started standing up for yourself. I was getting so aggravated and so irritated with how some people would walk all over you but you finally started to stand up for yourself and I am so so so proud of you. I really loved your personality and how bright and shiny it was. You were so happy through this entire book and rolled with the punches and it was really good to see how you thrived as the book went on.
I really enjoyed the POC representation in this novel. I feel like it could have been brought up more and it was only brought up a handful of times but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
Overall, I loved this book and I will continue to love this series so so much. It was fantastic.
Elle, girlie, feed me the next one because I am ready for Theo and Piper. So so ready.
4.5 Stars
2/5 Spice
I would like to start off by saying that I absolutely LOVED this book. I love an accidental pregnancy trope so much for some reason. Which is odd considering my biggest fear right now is having a baby. I thought the characters were fantastic, I thought the atmosphere was funny, and over all I had a great time reading it and I have been recommending it to everyone.
My favorite parts of this series, besides the obvious relationship, has to be the group posts at the beginning of each chapter. I thought they were HILARIOUS. I love them so much and I highlight almost all of them.
I really loved Grace and Dean and how they grew and how their relationship changed. I also loved how much the town showed they cared for Grace.
I love this book so much and the world Elle has created.
A review after the release date will be forthcoming with more of my thoughts but rest assured they are all good.
Edit when book released 2/20
ANYWAYS
I loved this book so much. I stayed up until 4 in the morning (when I had to be up at 8:30 the next morning) to finish it. I simply couldn’t put it down and I couldn’t find it in me to put it down. The world that Elle Rivers has created in Strawberry Springs is so so so adorable and I wish I lived there.
The plot of this novel was so simple and done so well. It is two consenting adults have a little fun and then having to deal with side effects of said fun. I thought the way the two people grew into themselves and out of their issues was done really well and I appreciated the way the people-pleasing tendencies were covered. I also loved how the two came together in the end, although this being a romance novel it was fully expected, it was super entertaining and fun to read about along the way.
Dean, my guy, I love you so so much. I really do. I think you are fantastic. The only reason this book didn’t get a full five stars is because of you. I wish so badly that all that could have either been avoided or something but later on in the book it all made a lot more sense which helped your case.
Grace, I am so glad you started standing up for yourself. I was getting so aggravated and so irritated with how some people would walk all over you but you finally started to stand up for yourself and I am so so so proud of you. I really loved your personality and how bright and shiny it was. You were so happy through this entire book and rolled with the punches and it was really good to see how you thrived as the book went on.
I really enjoyed the POC representation in this novel. I feel like it could have been brought up more and it was only brought up a handful of times but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
Overall, I loved this book and I will continue to love this series so so much. It was fantastic.
Elle, girlie, feed me the next one because I am ready for Theo and Piper. So so ready.
January 21, 2026
I received an ARC of As I Grow by Elle Rivers, and all thoughts are my own.
An emotional and engaging story that really stood out to me because of its character development. One of the things I appreciated most was how Dean owned up to his “mistake.” Instead of brushing it aside or offering empty apologies, he genuinely took responsibility and made real changes for the better. His growth felt authentic and meaningful, which made his character arc especially satisfying.
Grace was an absolute highlight for me. I loved her strength, heart, and the way she carried herself throughout the story. She felt real and easy to connect with, and I found myself rooting for her from the very beginning.
Overall I absolutely love this book and it might even by on my top 5 list of accidental pregnancy books! 🩷
An emotional and engaging story that really stood out to me because of its character development. One of the things I appreciated most was how Dean owned up to his “mistake.” Instead of brushing it aside or offering empty apologies, he genuinely took responsibility and made real changes for the better. His growth felt authentic and meaningful, which made his character arc especially satisfying.
Grace was an absolute highlight for me. I loved her strength, heart, and the way she carried herself throughout the story. She felt real and easy to connect with, and I found myself rooting for her from the very beginning.
Overall I absolutely love this book and it might even by on my top 5 list of accidental pregnancy books! 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved Grace and Dean. I love coming back to strawberry springs. It just feels like home now. The book got all the reactions out of me, I laughed a lot, was definitely angry too and absolutely loved the journey. I absolutely love the Facebook group, but the dad company was just hilarious. The depth to dean's character really had me rooting for him. His doubts and fears were written so beautifully, and then there's grace. Usually, I hate people pleasers, and I was so happy to see she finally learned to accept help. Every single time the girls were together, it was so much fun. I always look forward to cameos, and this had the perfect amount. My favorite quote from the book has to be "make a plan and throw it out the window". We got to see so much more of all the characters, be it Hugh, Mark, or Kelsey. I can't wait for the next book.
February 10, 2026
Grace and Dean 💜 Whew! I loved this book so much! It felt like a lil forehead kiss for those eldest sisters + pcos rep. Dean is a (reformed) cowboy playboy who is clear about his way of life and Grace is a people pleasing eldest sister who wants to be so helpful to her small town even at the cost of herself while also juggling her chronic illness. They have such a spark that it leads to a hot ONS. A nosey yet funny small town romance book with lots of personal growth for both main characters and the townsfolk. I enjoyed that the pregnancy stretched the length of the book so we get to see how the characters adjust and how their story unravels. We love a man who's willing to learn about fatherhood and pregnancy but also he already knew about pcos/ women's health despite being a playboy gave big green flags. I definitely recommend for those wanting a sweet romance read with heart and a bit of spice.
Tropes:
💛 accidental pregnancy
💙 forced proximity
💛 people-pleaser FMC
💙 reformed playboy MMC
💛 PCOS rep
Thank you so much to Elle Rivers and Literary Rising for this arc 💜
Tropes:
💛 accidental pregnancy
💙 forced proximity
💛 people-pleaser FMC
💙 reformed playboy MMC
💛 PCOS rep
Thank you so much to Elle Rivers and Literary Rising for this arc 💜
January 24, 2026
*ARC Review*
Strawberry springs made me fall in love more with small town romance, dean and grace story really is wholesome, this trope is not one that would easily impress you but to me it was perfect the way it was written, the character development, the PCOS mention it was relatable and comforting in a way, dean his character is definitely something we need more of, and I felt like I relate to him. I’m so excited about the STM grand, i definitely know I’m gonna miss the Facebook group because i already miss it.
I’m so excited and can’t wait for what is yet to come. Thank you Elle for giving us this masterpiece. This book was something I need in this moment and made me feel all the emotions that were inside and it was ethereal. 🤍
Strawberry springs made me fall in love more with small town romance, dean and grace story really is wholesome, this trope is not one that would easily impress you but to me it was perfect the way it was written, the character development, the PCOS mention it was relatable and comforting in a way, dean his character is definitely something we need more of, and I felt like I relate to him. I’m so excited about the STM grand, i definitely know I’m gonna miss the Facebook group because i already miss it.
I’m so excited and can’t wait for what is yet to come. Thank you Elle for giving us this masterpiece. This book was something I need in this moment and made me feel all the emotions that were inside and it was ethereal. 🤍
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just adore Strawberry Springs. The town is so delightful, and Elle Rivers is exceptional at making you care about her characters. I was laughing, crying, and getting worked up right along with them. While I enjoyed the previous two books' stories just a little bit more, this book still had all of the charm and romance I've come to love from this author. And like the other novels in this series, the main characters have plenty of growth. Grace's story is so admirable—she's kind, tough, and such a genuine person. It made it all the more sweet when Dean got his act together for her. I'm thrilled that they got their happy ending!
So thankful to Literary Rising and Elle Rivers for the eARC! I appreciate any opportunity to read and gush about this heartwarming small-town series!
So thankful to Literary Rising and Elle Rivers for the eARC! I appreciate any opportunity to read and gush about this heartwarming small-town series!
January 24, 2026
5 ⭐️
I loved Grace’s story. Wow what an incredible read. I read As I grow in 12 hours, couldn’t put it down. The story flowed really nicely, like a movie rolling thru my mind.
Surprise pregnancy’s can be hit and miss story lines for me, but I really enjoyed this read!
I would re read this in a heart beat and absolutely recommend to other readers.
Was definitely a romcom, comfy, small town read. Spice was sprinkled in there.
The MMC character development was chefs kiss!
I’m already excited for the next book!
Thank you to Elle and Literary Rising for the ARC!
I loved Grace’s story. Wow what an incredible read. I read As I grow in 12 hours, couldn’t put it down. The story flowed really nicely, like a movie rolling thru my mind.
Surprise pregnancy’s can be hit and miss story lines for me, but I really enjoyed this read!
I would re read this in a heart beat and absolutely recommend to other readers.
Was definitely a romcom, comfy, small town read. Spice was sprinkled in there.
The MMC character development was chefs kiss!
I’m already excited for the next book!
Thank you to Elle and Literary Rising for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2026
Arc review ✨
Strawberry springs is my favourite fictional small town, every single story has been such a fabulous read!!
I absolutely adored both Grace & Dean, the character development was top notch! It was so nice to see past characters too, I’m absolutely loving the new girl group 💕
Overall easy 5* for me, if you’re a fan of small town, found family & reformed playboy MMC - this is the read for you!
Thanks for the arc 🫶🏽
Strawberry springs is my favourite fictional small town, every single story has been such a fabulous read!!
I absolutely adored both Grace & Dean, the character development was top notch! It was so nice to see past characters too, I’m absolutely loving the new girl group 💕
Overall easy 5* for me, if you’re a fan of small town, found family & reformed playboy MMC - this is the read for you!
Thanks for the arc 🫶🏽
Review of advance copy received from Author
This might be my favorite Elle Rivers book yet! I'm an absolute sucker for accidental pregnancy books, and I love getting to read books with representation(this one had PCOS rep!). This book was everything I hoped it would be and also managed to get me out of a reading slump.
January 26, 2026
First off, a huge thank you to Elle Rivers for letting me ARC read As I Grow — I absolutely loved this book from start to finish.
Dean being a full-on playboy and then slowly evolving throughout the story was everything. Even when he was still very much in his playboy era, the way he treated people and cared for others never gave me the ick… it somehow just made him even more mouthwatering.
This is only the second book I’ve read where the FMC has PCOS, and being able to personally relate made this story hit so much deeper for me. Grace and Dean are truly the perfect pair. I loved that they both thought this would just be a simple one-night stand… until a surprise changed everything.
Small-town romance, emotional growth, accidental pregnancy, and genuine character development? Sign me up. I will absolutely be reading more of Elle’s books after this one.
If you love heartfelt small-town romance with real representation and swoony moments, this one deserves a spot on your TBR. 💚📖
Dean being a full-on playboy and then slowly evolving throughout the story was everything. Even when he was still very much in his playboy era, the way he treated people and cared for others never gave me the ick… it somehow just made him even more mouthwatering.
This is only the second book I’ve read where the FMC has PCOS, and being able to personally relate made this story hit so much deeper for me. Grace and Dean are truly the perfect pair. I loved that they both thought this would just be a simple one-night stand… until a surprise changed everything.
Small-town romance, emotional growth, accidental pregnancy, and genuine character development? Sign me up. I will absolutely be reading more of Elle’s books after this one.
If you love heartfelt small-town romance with real representation and swoony moments, this one deserves a spot on your TBR. 💚📖
January 30, 2026
Thank you to Elle and Literary Rising for the ARC! I was so excited to return to Strawberry Springs because this series always makes me wish I lived in a charming small town like that.
Elle had me hooked from the very first page. She has a gift for storytelling and bringing her characters to life. The Facebook group chat was even funnier this time around and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. I have a suspicion about who the STM grant is, but I’m keeping my lips sealed.
I can’t wait for the next installment… fingers crossed it’s Theo and maybe Piper. 😉
Elle had me hooked from the very first page. She has a gift for storytelling and bringing her characters to life. The Facebook group chat was even funnier this time around and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. I have a suspicion about who the STM grant is, but I’m keeping my lips sealed.
I can’t wait for the next installment… fingers crossed it’s Theo and maybe Piper. 😉
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2026
Elle Rivers just keeps getting better and better. I think Grace and Dean are my new favorite couple. The only thing that would have made it better is if I could start the next book immediately. I read this book as an arc but all opinions are my own.
February 12, 2026
This is an arc review: I absolutely loved this book so much. I loved the accidentally pregnancy trope so much, and I liked how Dean fell first and hard. I like how Dean and grace both went through the same thing with losing a parent. Thank you Elle Rivers I will definitely be waiting for Theo’s story!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*ARC REVIEW*
Elle has done it again! I stayed up far too late to finish this during a wild blizzard that kept us indoors all weekend. Perfect timing for a new book!
I really enjoyed this one, the couple this time was sweet, funny, a little stupid at times, mature and fun! (😂)
There was a mutual pining, bit of trauma, lack of healthy relationship modeling that caused some drama, but otherwise this was a very mature, loving, communicative coupling!
I was SO glad to see Grace and Dean both stand up for themselves and get the justice that was so greatly deserved, the trust and protection they had for each other at the end there was wonderful!
I also loved getting to see more of the town in action too, freaking Hugh man! Lots of shenanigans had me laughing!
And I'm making guesses of our mysterious benefactor. Cant WAIT to find out if my guesses are right!
So excited to see who our next couple will be and can't wait to read on!!
Thank you for again choosing me to ARC read!
Elle has done it again! I stayed up far too late to finish this during a wild blizzard that kept us indoors all weekend. Perfect timing for a new book!
I really enjoyed this one, the couple this time was sweet, funny, a little stupid at times, mature and fun! (😂)
There was a mutual pining, bit of trauma, lack of healthy relationship modeling that caused some drama, but otherwise this was a very mature, loving, communicative coupling!
I was SO glad to see Grace and Dean both stand up for themselves and get the justice that was so greatly deserved, the trust and protection they had for each other at the end there was wonderful!
I also loved getting to see more of the town in action too, freaking Hugh man! Lots of shenanigans had me laughing!
And I'm making guesses of our mysterious benefactor. Cant WAIT to find out if my guesses are right!
So excited to see who our next couple will be and can't wait to read on!!
Thank you for again choosing me to ARC read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love Strawberry Springs! As I Grow is the perfect addition to the series! I love that Grace & Dean get their happy ending and that Grace learned the difference between toxic relationships and healthy ones!
Did not finish
February 23, 2026Didn’t read the others in the series. Too may side characters in just the first couple chapters
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