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Loved Up
Twenty-six-year-old Kayla Fields is left feeling unloved and unwanted after she found out her now ex-husband Brian Stratton cheated on her. Choosing to divorce him was the hardest thing she's ever done, but also the right thing to do. Kayla is referred by her older brother, Josh, to his best friend’s dad’s law firm at Harris and Son Law Firm.
Eli Harris is known to be a player, which is why Josh is so protective of his sister. The problem? Eli and Kayla are drawn to each other like magnets. Eli falls hard and wants to do everything he can to protect her while she transitions into this new phase of life. Kayla is beyond grateful to Eli for helping her in more ways than one.
He calls her Princess. She calls him Hotshot. Will Josh finally accept his sister and best friend’s happiness, or will things between Kayla and Eli end before they begin?
Eli Harris is known to be a player, which is why Josh is so protective of his sister. The problem? Eli and Kayla are drawn to each other like magnets. Eli falls hard and wants to do everything he can to protect her while she transitions into this new phase of life. Kayla is beyond grateful to Eli for helping her in more ways than one.
He calls her Princess. She calls him Hotshot. Will Josh finally accept his sister and best friend’s happiness, or will things between Kayla and Eli end before they begin?
185 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 22, 2026
2 people are currently reading
3 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 22, 2026
First I want to say Thank You to Nicole for letting me be part of this ARC team. Kayla and Eli are so perfect for eachother, Kayla is getting divorced and her husband i just wanted to slap ( i was with someone like that). Eli is the most perfect gentlemen, Eli is Kayla’s brother’s best friend and Josh thinks Eli is still a player and doesn’t want Eli with Kayla. When Eli saw Kayla he just knew she was the one for him. This book was so good and I couldn’t get enough of it and you should definitely add this to your TBR.
January 1, 2026
Kayla and Eli was an instant attraction!
This is such a feel good love story, where you can believe that after something terrible happens that you can have love again. That there is still happiness out there for everyone no matter what happens.
Kayla and Eli is such an inspiration to know that against all odds (even big brothers) that if you know who you want to be with that you will make it happen.
This is such a feel good love story, where you can believe that after something terrible happens that you can have love again. That there is still happiness out there for everyone no matter what happens.
Kayla and Eli is such an inspiration to know that against all odds (even big brothers) that if you know who you want to be with that you will make it happen.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved Up is a cosy small-town romance with a happily ever after and a lovable little dog named Honey. A quick read with likeable characters, an annoying older brother and a lot of foreshadowing for future books in the series. The pacing threw me a bit, but all in all it's a comfort read with a strong message- there is always hope for love after a bad relationship comes to a close.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review.
Eli and Kayla's story was such a cute small town romance! although it was cute I do feel like there is something lacking. The aspect of Brian and Kayla's divorce felt a little too rushed for me personally, possibly due to the fact that this is a shorter book than what I usually read. I do like Eli's character and his support but the climax also felt as though it fell a little flat. Overall it was a great book! I am so honored to be a first time ARC reader. Thank you for the opportunity ❤️
Eli and Kayla's story was such a cute small town romance! although it was cute I do feel like there is something lacking. The aspect of Brian and Kayla's divorce felt a little too rushed for me personally, possibly due to the fact that this is a shorter book than what I usually read. I do like Eli's character and his support but the climax also felt as though it fell a little flat. Overall it was a great book! I am so honored to be a first time ARC reader. Thank you for the opportunity ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Normally I love a quick read but this one unfortunately was rushed and fell flat.
Eli and Kayla's story is a cute one with all the vibes of a hallmark movie but I needed more
Thank you Nicole Tracey for the ARC opportunity and I wish you all the best for this series
Eli and Kayla's story is a cute one with all the vibes of a hallmark movie but I needed more
Thank you Nicole Tracey for the ARC opportunity and I wish you all the best for this series
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
I rated this book 2.5 stars which was disappointing as I was really excited for this book, however unfortunately it fell short with some of the writing and how rushed the end felt. If this book was longer it might have worked. Aside from the writing, Eli and Kayla are so cute. I love how Eli supports her through everything and his consistent coffee delivery. Him calling her 'Princess' is very much an added benefit to these two.
To those of you that want a cute, small town read this could be one for you. The actual storyline was good and the characters draw you into their world. You can see how the author is planning for other books in the series and making you wonder who the love interests for other characters are.
I both loved and hated the siblings best-friend trope (not a spoiler I promise. It is in the blurb) as Josh really frustrated me with his inability to accept the relationship originally. This was not a second chance romance in the sense that the characters fall in love with each other again, but it was a story about how you can find your person, after you leave someone else. Eli was Kayla's second chance and I love that they found their happy ending (and that Brian didn't have one).
Tropes
💌 brother's best friend
💌 pregnancy
Thank you Nicole for the opportunity to read this ARC. This review was my own opinion entirely.
I rated this book 2.5 stars which was disappointing as I was really excited for this book, however unfortunately it fell short with some of the writing and how rushed the end felt. If this book was longer it might have worked. Aside from the writing, Eli and Kayla are so cute. I love how Eli supports her through everything and his consistent coffee delivery. Him calling her 'Princess' is very much an added benefit to these two.
To those of you that want a cute, small town read this could be one for you. The actual storyline was good and the characters draw you into their world. You can see how the author is planning for other books in the series and making you wonder who the love interests for other characters are.
I both loved and hated the siblings best-friend trope (not a spoiler I promise. It is in the blurb) as Josh really frustrated me with his inability to accept the relationship originally. This was not a second chance romance in the sense that the characters fall in love with each other again, but it was a story about how you can find your person, after you leave someone else. Eli was Kayla's second chance and I love that they found their happy ending (and that Brian didn't have one).
Tropes
💌 brother's best friend
💌 pregnancy
Thank you Nicole for the opportunity to read this ARC. This review was my own opinion entirely.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved Up is a cozy small town romance that wraps you in warmth right from the start. A recently divorced Kayla, a charming lawyer named Eli, and a very good English Cocker Spaniel called Honey. Truly the kind of setup that feels like comfort on a quiet evening. 💝
Eli falls first and he falls hard. Kayla takes her time, carrying the weight of a broken marriage and the complication of being Josh’s little sister. Best friends. Sisters off limits. You know the tension. And honestly, their chemistry worked for me. Eli is a full on cinnamon roll. From memorizing Kayla’s caramel latte on day one to standing between her and her ex whenever she needed protection, he showed up. Every time. 💕
What I loved most was how Kayla showed up for Eli too. She didn’t try to change him. She simply existed in his life and taught him love slowly and quietly, without even realizing it. 💕
That said, while I enjoyed the story overall, the pacing was a bit too fast for my taste. Events unfolded one after another without much room to breathe. Some moments that should have lingered emotionally, like the proposal and Kayla’s realization, passed by too quickly and I wanted more time to feel them. 💙
Still, this was a sweet, comforting read and a solid start to the series. I am genuinely looking forward to book two and hoping it dives into Josh and Claire’s story next. 💝
Eli falls first and he falls hard. Kayla takes her time, carrying the weight of a broken marriage and the complication of being Josh’s little sister. Best friends. Sisters off limits. You know the tension. And honestly, their chemistry worked for me. Eli is a full on cinnamon roll. From memorizing Kayla’s caramel latte on day one to standing between her and her ex whenever she needed protection, he showed up. Every time. 💕
What I loved most was how Kayla showed up for Eli too. She didn’t try to change him. She simply existed in his life and taught him love slowly and quietly, without even realizing it. 💕
That said, while I enjoyed the story overall, the pacing was a bit too fast for my taste. Events unfolded one after another without much room to breathe. Some moments that should have lingered emotionally, like the proposal and Kayla’s realization, passed by too quickly and I wanted more time to feel them. 💙
Still, this was a sweet, comforting read and a solid start to the series. I am genuinely looking forward to book two and hoping it dives into Josh and Claire’s story next. 💝
January 22, 2026
Rating: 2,5/5
Loved Up was a book I was genuinely excited to read. With tropes like second-chance romance, brother’s best friend, and a small-town setting, it had a lot of elements that initially drew me in.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is its core message. The story highlights that everyone deserves a second chance at love and that it’s always possible to start over. These themes are consistently present and give the romance a hopeful, comforting foundation.
The pacing is very fast, which keeps the story moving but didn’t always allow the emotional moments to fully breathe for me. I also found that much of the dialogue felt similar across characters, making their voices less distinct. At times, the main characters, despite being in their mid-twenties, came across as emotionally younger than their ages, which made it a bit harder for me to connect with them on a deeper level.
Overall, Loved Up is a light, fast-paced, small-town romance with clear themes of love, forgiveness, and new beginnings. While it didn’t fully work for me personally, I appreciated the messages at the heart of the story and the direction it sets for future books.
Big thanks to Nicole Tracy and BookFunnel for an ARC-Copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Loved Up was a book I was genuinely excited to read. With tropes like second-chance romance, brother’s best friend, and a small-town setting, it had a lot of elements that initially drew me in.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is its core message. The story highlights that everyone deserves a second chance at love and that it’s always possible to start over. These themes are consistently present and give the romance a hopeful, comforting foundation.
The pacing is very fast, which keeps the story moving but didn’t always allow the emotional moments to fully breathe for me. I also found that much of the dialogue felt similar across characters, making their voices less distinct. At times, the main characters, despite being in their mid-twenties, came across as emotionally younger than their ages, which made it a bit harder for me to connect with them on a deeper level.
Overall, Loved Up is a light, fast-paced, small-town romance with clear themes of love, forgiveness, and new beginnings. While it didn’t fully work for me personally, I appreciated the messages at the heart of the story and the direction it sets for future books.
Big thanks to Nicole Tracy and BookFunnel for an ARC-Copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved Up
By: Nicole Tracy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved Up by Nicole Tracy is an absolute five-star gem that left me with the biggest smile on my face! If you are a fan of the brother’s best friend trope mixed with a touching surprise pregnancy journey, this book is your next must-read. The chemistry between Kayla and Eli is simply electric from the very first page, but it’s the tenderness of their relationship that truly steals the show. Watching Eli go from the protective best friend to the most devoted partner was pure swoon-worthy perfection!
What sets this story apart is the incredible "book boyfriend" energy Eli radiates. His consistent, thoughtful gestures—like those morning coffee deliveries—make him one of the most supportive and lovable heroes I’ve read in 2026. The emotional depth Nicole Tracy brings to their transition from friends to a family is both heartwarming and realistic. This is the ultimate comfort read for anyone who loves a small-town romance filled with deep affection, low-stress vibes, and a guaranteed "happily ever after."
10/10 Would recommend this book to all family and friends.
By: Nicole Tracy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved Up by Nicole Tracy is an absolute five-star gem that left me with the biggest smile on my face! If you are a fan of the brother’s best friend trope mixed with a touching surprise pregnancy journey, this book is your next must-read. The chemistry between Kayla and Eli is simply electric from the very first page, but it’s the tenderness of their relationship that truly steals the show. Watching Eli go from the protective best friend to the most devoted partner was pure swoon-worthy perfection!
What sets this story apart is the incredible "book boyfriend" energy Eli radiates. His consistent, thoughtful gestures—like those morning coffee deliveries—make him one of the most supportive and lovable heroes I’ve read in 2026. The emotional depth Nicole Tracy brings to their transition from friends to a family is both heartwarming and realistic. This is the ultimate comfort read for anyone who loves a small-town romance filled with deep affection, low-stress vibes, and a guaranteed "happily ever after."
10/10 Would recommend this book to all family and friends.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you're reading this, thanks for checking our Loved Up. This book has been something I have wanted to write for a very long time and found snippets from my real-life seeping through.
Back in June of 2025 I had just had surgery and found myself thinking about the small-town romance based on a young teacher wanting to start fresh and then 8 weeks later, I had a draft which I sent out to Alpha readers. Could I have edited more and made it extended? Probably. Hindsight right! We all learn things as we go, and I hope that from reading book 1 you don't give up with the Willow Valley series and continue the Harris brothers journey. I am forever learning about what my readers want and need and hope that you can see I am truly trying and wanting the romance out there in the world. I still love Loved Up!
So, if you enjoy a small-town, cozy romance then Loved Up is for you! I can't wait to share with you book 2! Stay tuned.
Back in June of 2025 I had just had surgery and found myself thinking about the small-town romance based on a young teacher wanting to start fresh and then 8 weeks later, I had a draft which I sent out to Alpha readers. Could I have edited more and made it extended? Probably. Hindsight right! We all learn things as we go, and I hope that from reading book 1 you don't give up with the Willow Valley series and continue the Harris brothers journey. I am forever learning about what my readers want and need and hope that you can see I am truly trying and wanting the romance out there in the world. I still love Loved Up!
So, if you enjoy a small-town, cozy romance then Loved Up is for you! I can't wait to share with you book 2! Stay tuned.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the author, Nicole, for the ARC! Now on to the review: This book is a sweet and cozy small town romance. The book centers on FMC Kayla, a recent divorcee, and MMC Eli who is described as a player. When they first meet, it’s love at first sight! The plot centers on their relationship and how they navigate the ins and outs of love. I would actually describe Eli as having golden retriever bf energy as he is affectionate, loving, and loyal towards Kayla. At times, I did find Kayla to be slightly annoying as her decisions were easily swayed by her brother or her insecurities impaired her decision-making (although it is understandable given her divorce situation). Overall, the story was enjoyable and l would definitely recommend it as a palate cleanser as it’s light, sweet and easy to read!
Thank you to the author, Nicole, for the ARC! Now on to the review: This book is a sweet and cozy small town romance. The book centers on FMC Kayla, a recent divorcee, and MMC Eli who is described as a player. When they first meet, it’s love at first sight! The plot centers on their relationship and how they navigate the ins and outs of love. I would actually describe Eli as having golden retriever bf energy as he is affectionate, loving, and loyal towards Kayla. At times, I did find Kayla to be slightly annoying as her decisions were easily swayed by her brother or her insecurities impaired her decision-making (although it is understandable given her divorce situation). Overall, the story was enjoyable and l would definitely recommend it as a palate cleanser as it’s light, sweet and easy to read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
From the start of the novel I felt drawn to Kayla. I resonated with some of the things happening to her. Josh caused some serious emotions in me, but I love how it unfolds.
Eli is the perfect gentleman. I think we will dream of a love like this for a long time coming.
Nicole brings back certain elements later which is real and true to life. It does not feel forced.
It was slightly spicy, so if you only read closed door romances, this is something to bear in mind.
It is a big romance set in a small town. And it calls for the perfect size cup of coffee and your pet curled in your lap.
Look out for this novel!
Eli is the perfect gentleman. I think we will dream of a love like this for a long time coming.
Nicole brings back certain elements later which is real and true to life. It does not feel forced.
It was slightly spicy, so if you only read closed door romances, this is something to bear in mind.
It is a big romance set in a small town. And it calls for the perfect size cup of coffee and your pet curled in your lap.
Look out for this novel!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a cute, easy read following Kayla as she navigates life and love after her divorce. I really enjoyed Eli as a love interest , he was attentive, sweet, and genuinely caring toward Kayla, which made their relationship enjoyable to read.
Overall, it’s a nice, feel-good story, but the pacing didn’t fully work for me. The divorce felt a bit rushed at the beginning, and when the ex-husband re-entered the story around the 60% mark, I wasn’t entirely sure how to feel about that choice. Still, if you’re looking for something light and straightforward, this is a quick and cozy read.
This was a cute, easy read following Kayla as she navigates life and love after her divorce. I really enjoyed Eli as a love interest , he was attentive, sweet, and genuinely caring toward Kayla, which made their relationship enjoyable to read.
Overall, it’s a nice, feel-good story, but the pacing didn’t fully work for me. The divorce felt a bit rushed at the beginning, and when the ex-husband re-entered the story around the 60% mark, I wasn’t entirely sure how to feel about that choice. Still, if you’re looking for something light and straightforward, this is a quick and cozy read.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
ARC review
Kayla and Eli’s romance is beyond beautiful. He is exactly what she needs after such a terrible relationship ends. Although this is a cute small town romance. It is very fast paced and almost feels too rushed. It is an easy read and I really liked the characters and story.
Eli was a player before he meets a beautiful blonde outside his work, he does not know she is his best friend’s sister. Kayla is going through a divorce, she just wants rid and moves to a small town to find herself.
I love honey, the best little puppy. Who could not like a story with a beautiful sidekick 🐕
I am excited to read more from Nicola and see where this series goes.
🤍 brothers best friend
🤍 small town
🤍 he falls hard
🤍 second chance
Kayla and Eli’s romance is beyond beautiful. He is exactly what she needs after such a terrible relationship ends. Although this is a cute small town romance. It is very fast paced and almost feels too rushed. It is an easy read and I really liked the characters and story.
Eli was a player before he meets a beautiful blonde outside his work, he does not know she is his best friend’s sister. Kayla is going through a divorce, she just wants rid and moves to a small town to find herself.
I love honey, the best little puppy. Who could not like a story with a beautiful sidekick 🐕
I am excited to read more from Nicola and see where this series goes.
🤍 brothers best friend
🤍 small town
🤍 he falls hard
🤍 second chance
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed Kayla and Eli’s story. This was a cute and easy read. I finished it in a day! This was a great story about resilience and finding love again, and that sometimes you just have to wait until you find the right person who makes an effort to remember the little things you like. Coffee can be the bridge to a girl’s heart!
Thank you Nicole for allowing me to be part of the ARC team for this novel!
Thank you Nicole for allowing me to be part of the ARC team for this novel!
January 25, 2026
This was such a cute little quick read. If you’re looking for small town charm with an animal sidekick, a little angst, and a budding romance, give this one a chance!!
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