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Moran Sisters #1
Trying Not to Love You
NYT and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylee Ryan brings you a new standalone series set in a small town, surrounding four sisters. Trying Not to Love You is a small-town, second-chance, first-love, ex-military romance.
Ellison
Copeland James was my first love, my first heartbreak, my first everything.
Then he left without explanation, and never came back.
My sisters and our closest friends helped me pick up the pieces, but my heart hasn’t been whole since the day he walked out of Magnolia Ridge.
I’ve learned to live with what could have been… until his mother’s illness brings him back to our small town. He’s older, harder, and more magnetic than I remember.
He’s a man now. The man I learned to live without. And yet, he’s back, stirring everything I thought I’d buried, making my world feel unsteady.
Because loving him nearly destroyed me… and now, I’m still trying not to love him.
Copeland
I left Magnolia Ridge with nothing but a duffel bag and a decision.
I told myself joining the Marines was the right choice. That loving her meant protecting her, and this was the way to do it.
I was wrong.
Now I’m back, years later, and she’s just as breathtaking as the day I left. All these years, I imagined she’d have moved on, married someone else, but she’s still single, and in my heart, she’s still mine.
But Ellison doesn’t see me the way I see her, not anymore. All I find in her eyes is the wound I left behind. The one that never healed.
I didn’t fight for us back then, but I’ve learned. Now I’m ready for battle, fighting for what we could be while she tries not to love me.
Ellison
Copeland James was my first love, my first heartbreak, my first everything.
Then he left without explanation, and never came back.
My sisters and our closest friends helped me pick up the pieces, but my heart hasn’t been whole since the day he walked out of Magnolia Ridge.
I’ve learned to live with what could have been… until his mother’s illness brings him back to our small town. He’s older, harder, and more magnetic than I remember.
He’s a man now. The man I learned to live without. And yet, he’s back, stirring everything I thought I’d buried, making my world feel unsteady.
Because loving him nearly destroyed me… and now, I’m still trying not to love him.
Copeland
I left Magnolia Ridge with nothing but a duffel bag and a decision.
I told myself joining the Marines was the right choice. That loving her meant protecting her, and this was the way to do it.
I was wrong.
Now I’m back, years later, and she’s just as breathtaking as the day I left. All these years, I imagined she’d have moved on, married someone else, but she’s still single, and in my heart, she’s still mine.
But Ellison doesn’t see me the way I see her, not anymore. All I find in her eyes is the wound I left behind. The one that never healed.
I didn’t fight for us back then, but I’ve learned. Now I’m ready for battle, fighting for what we could be while she tries not to love me.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 14, 2026
About the author
Kaylee Ryan
109 books6,588 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kaylee Ryan has earned the affectionate title of “Queen of Swoon” from her devoted readers. With over sixty romance novels to her name, Kaylee has built a beloved catalog of heartfelt stories that celebrate love in all its tender, emotional, and undeniably swoony forms. Her signature blend of charm, chemistry, and genuine happily-ever-afters has captivated readers around the world.
When she’s not crafting new love stories or dreaming up her next unforgettable couple, Kaylee can usually be found with a book in hand, fueling her creativity as a lifelong reader. She cherishes the time spent with her family and friends, embracing the moments that inspire the heart of her stories.
When she’s not crafting new love stories or dreaming up her next unforgettable couple, Kaylee can usually be found with a book in hand, fueling her creativity as a lifelong reader. She cherishes the time spent with her family and friends, embracing the moments that inspire the heart of her stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 533 reviews
July 15, 2026
it was just all kinda… stupid? i don’t think there’s a better word to describe it.
i’m so sick of arc liars. or maybe they really are that delusional.
some spoilers ig but i think it’s necessary to know how horrific this book is.
he loves her, and she’s his whole world, blah blah blah. and yet, when he decides to enlist, he doesn’t tell her. when he actually leaves, he doesn’t tell her. that’s not the behavior of someone who gives a shit. i get that he’s 18, that’s still old enough to know better. and then when he comes back before deployment he sees her from a distance laughing and gets so butt hurt she isn’t upset that he just never speaks to her again for 17 YEARS???? are we fr??? i hate that nonsense of “she could have reached out” uhhh, why would she? she was 15, her boyfriend left without a word and never spoke to her again. what is that child meant to do? chase after a man that abandoned her?
i also find it a bit odd that they dated when they were 15 and 18. it’s kinda problematic cuz you know, its literally illegal? 3 years isn’t usually a big age gap but it’s too much when they’re this young. a 15 year old is still freshly in high school, an 18 year old can be in college. it’s just mentally two different places and maturity levels. it’s not mentioned when they actually started dating or how long for, we just know that the relationship ended when they were 15 and 18, which makes this so much worse. cuz wdym she’s still hung up on the guy who left her without saying anything when she was just 15 years old? again… ARE WE FR??? and he was going to propose? SHE. WAS. 15.
if they were SO in love with each other, i fail to see how they would stomach being intimate with other people. but because so much time passed it would have been unnatural for them to both be celibate for so long. i just think the gap should have been much smaller and both should have stayed celibate. the feelings they had for each other and the pain would have been much more understandable that way.
i dislike how everyone is just everybody’s bestie. her sisters are her besties, her female bestie, her male besties. it’s so cartoonish. they’re all 30+ can we just please tone down the hallmark movie vibes?
things seemed out of order and unnatural. she fell into bed and into dating him way too quickly, even if she wasn’t angry with him anymore (which she should be, or at least annoyed). they spent almost 2 decades apart and are now adults, some time getting to know each other would have been way more natural. instead they get married and pregnant in less than 2 months. it’s ridiculous. you can’t pick up where you left off after such a large time period, especially when they were kids when they parted ways.
it’s unclear how much he kept in contact with his friends cuz he speaks as if he barely kept in touch with them but he would also talk about telling them not to mention ellison. then they immediately welcomed him with open arms but in the interaction after that, one of them got pissed about leaving and hurting ellison and it’s all just so ??? if he was gonna be mad at him, it should have been when they first see each other, not later.
i think it’s stupid that he was obviously still hung up on her and NO ONE told him that for 17 YEARS she’s been single. it’s all too ridiculous and far fetched. literally all he needed was one person to say she was single and hurting.
he jumps to way too many conclusions. he assumed she got the letters, he assumed she’s been ignoring him, he assumed she was fine when he left, he assumed she moved on, he assumed she was married with kids. he literally just makes decisions based on his own made up world, even in adulthood.
a second chance is only as good as how they got it and the intentions behind it. if his mom never got sick, what would have happened? would he have ever settled down back in his town and let himself find out that eli was single and pursue her? imo it’s a flop if it’s only outside circumstances that led them to try again, rather than one or both of them actually deciding they want to go after the other person. that didn’t happen here. it’s only cuz his mom got sick that he decided to go back.
i think it would have made a lot more sense if there were some change to the timeline. imo this time jump was just way too big to make their reunion realistic. i think they should have had a smaller age gap, and for their second chance to happen after his 4 year deployment. that would have made more sense since he was supposed to only go for 4 years in the first place but for whatever dumbass reason stayed 17. all the major events would still be plausible, if anything it would make it more realistic cuz of how raw their feelings were and the fact that at no point is anyone acting their age. them being early 20s makes more sense.
the prologue also should have been different. it’s usually meant to set the tone and give you an idea of the main story. her parents death is completely irrelevant. i honestly don’t know why it would be the prologue. it would have been better if it was the scene where he came back and saw her laughing and then left. if anything, his fathers death should have been what was emphasized on since it was the driving force for his decision to leave and we don’t get a chance to really understand it.
the pregnancy. her sisters were joking around about her getting pregnant after one time as if it’s that easy. it all sounded so out of touch. Like all she had to do is look at her calendar to see where she is at her cycle and figure out how likely it is cuz they would have to hit smack dab the day she’s ovulating for it to happen after one time. but of course in this ridiculous hallmark story, she does end up pregnant and she only realizes six weeks later??? right after they have sex???? this is so unrealistic. for over a month she didn’t realize she missed her period?? i hate TSTL FMCs.
the letters. i think that should have been completely scrapped tbh, it served no purpose but to piss me off. if the idea was that he did try to communicate with her (after failing miserably to do so when it was very necessary), it was a stupid one. he could have just called, or actually talked to her once in all the times he came back to town during those 17 years. but no, he sent letters like this is the 1920s and the only way to communicate is through a fucking carrier pigeon. if anything, he seems more worthless cuz of the damn letters.
turning her mom into the villain was just not the move. the moms reasoning for hiding the letters was the most idiotic, selfish, and illogical thing ever. oh my daughter is crying herself to sleep for years? let me just NOT give her the only communication she had with the boy she loves. BE SO FUCKING FR. it was honestly disgusting to read.
I think the most ironic thing is that the whole reason she kept the letters away from her was because she thought he wanted to leave the small town (and the daughter would go with him) but at no point did he ever indicate or hint that he had any intentions to leave the town. he only wanted to be gone for as long as he had to, which was four years for the Marines to give him the benefits that he wanted for a spouse, and then after that, his plan was to settle in their town, so I don’t know where this delusional nonsense came from.
that’s when I stopped reading, i lasted longer than i should have but i really wanted to try and i deeply regret it. what an epic waste of time. this book is ass.
general comments: things are repeated way too often. i wish she got an explanation of how/ when she found out he enlisted, his thought process during that time and more info on the aftermath of his fathers death.
i’m so sick of arc liars. or maybe they really are that delusional.
some spoilers ig but i think it’s necessary to know how horrific this book is.
he loves her, and she’s his whole world, blah blah blah. and yet, when he decides to enlist, he doesn’t tell her. when he actually leaves, he doesn’t tell her. that’s not the behavior of someone who gives a shit. i get that he’s 18, that’s still old enough to know better. and then when he comes back before deployment he sees her from a distance laughing and gets so butt hurt she isn’t upset that he just never speaks to her again for 17 YEARS???? are we fr??? i hate that nonsense of “she could have reached out” uhhh, why would she? she was 15, her boyfriend left without a word and never spoke to her again. what is that child meant to do? chase after a man that abandoned her?
i also find it a bit odd that they dated when they were 15 and 18. it’s kinda problematic cuz you know, its literally illegal? 3 years isn’t usually a big age gap but it’s too much when they’re this young. a 15 year old is still freshly in high school, an 18 year old can be in college. it’s just mentally two different places and maturity levels. it’s not mentioned when they actually started dating or how long for, we just know that the relationship ended when they were 15 and 18, which makes this so much worse. cuz wdym she’s still hung up on the guy who left her without saying anything when she was just 15 years old? again… ARE WE FR??? and he was going to propose? SHE. WAS. 15.
if they were SO in love with each other, i fail to see how they would stomach being intimate with other people. but because so much time passed it would have been unnatural for them to both be celibate for so long. i just think the gap should have been much smaller and both should have stayed celibate. the feelings they had for each other and the pain would have been much more understandable that way.
i dislike how everyone is just everybody’s bestie. her sisters are her besties, her female bestie, her male besties. it’s so cartoonish. they’re all 30+ can we just please tone down the hallmark movie vibes?
things seemed out of order and unnatural. she fell into bed and into dating him way too quickly, even if she wasn’t angry with him anymore (which she should be, or at least annoyed). they spent almost 2 decades apart and are now adults, some time getting to know each other would have been way more natural. instead they get married and pregnant in less than 2 months. it’s ridiculous. you can’t pick up where you left off after such a large time period, especially when they were kids when they parted ways.
it’s unclear how much he kept in contact with his friends cuz he speaks as if he barely kept in touch with them but he would also talk about telling them not to mention ellison. then they immediately welcomed him with open arms but in the interaction after that, one of them got pissed about leaving and hurting ellison and it’s all just so ??? if he was gonna be mad at him, it should have been when they first see each other, not later.
i think it’s stupid that he was obviously still hung up on her and NO ONE told him that for 17 YEARS she’s been single. it’s all too ridiculous and far fetched. literally all he needed was one person to say she was single and hurting.
he jumps to way too many conclusions. he assumed she got the letters, he assumed she’s been ignoring him, he assumed she was fine when he left, he assumed she moved on, he assumed she was married with kids. he literally just makes decisions based on his own made up world, even in adulthood.
a second chance is only as good as how they got it and the intentions behind it. if his mom never got sick, what would have happened? would he have ever settled down back in his town and let himself find out that eli was single and pursue her? imo it’s a flop if it’s only outside circumstances that led them to try again, rather than one or both of them actually deciding they want to go after the other person. that didn’t happen here. it’s only cuz his mom got sick that he decided to go back.
i think it would have made a lot more sense if there were some change to the timeline. imo this time jump was just way too big to make their reunion realistic. i think they should have had a smaller age gap, and for their second chance to happen after his 4 year deployment. that would have made more sense since he was supposed to only go for 4 years in the first place but for whatever dumbass reason stayed 17. all the major events would still be plausible, if anything it would make it more realistic cuz of how raw their feelings were and the fact that at no point is anyone acting their age. them being early 20s makes more sense.
the prologue also should have been different. it’s usually meant to set the tone and give you an idea of the main story. her parents death is completely irrelevant. i honestly don’t know why it would be the prologue. it would have been better if it was the scene where he came back and saw her laughing and then left. if anything, his fathers death should have been what was emphasized on since it was the driving force for his decision to leave and we don’t get a chance to really understand it.
the pregnancy. her sisters were joking around about her getting pregnant after one time as if it’s that easy. it all sounded so out of touch. Like all she had to do is look at her calendar to see where she is at her cycle and figure out how likely it is cuz they would have to hit smack dab the day she’s ovulating for it to happen after one time. but of course in this ridiculous hallmark story, she does end up pregnant and she only realizes six weeks later??? right after they have sex???? this is so unrealistic. for over a month she didn’t realize she missed her period?? i hate TSTL FMCs.
the letters. i think that should have been completely scrapped tbh, it served no purpose but to piss me off. if the idea was that he did try to communicate with her (after failing miserably to do so when it was very necessary), it was a stupid one. he could have just called, or actually talked to her once in all the times he came back to town during those 17 years. but no, he sent letters like this is the 1920s and the only way to communicate is through a fucking carrier pigeon. if anything, he seems more worthless cuz of the damn letters.
turning her mom into the villain was just not the move. the moms reasoning for hiding the letters was the most idiotic, selfish, and illogical thing ever. oh my daughter is crying herself to sleep for years? let me just NOT give her the only communication she had with the boy she loves. BE SO FUCKING FR. it was honestly disgusting to read.
I think the most ironic thing is that the whole reason she kept the letters away from her was because she thought he wanted to leave the small town (and the daughter would go with him) but at no point did he ever indicate or hint that he had any intentions to leave the town. he only wanted to be gone for as long as he had to, which was four years for the Marines to give him the benefits that he wanted for a spouse, and then after that, his plan was to settle in their town, so I don’t know where this delusional nonsense came from.
that’s when I stopped reading, i lasted longer than i should have but i really wanted to try and i deeply regret it. what an epic waste of time. this book is ass.
general comments: things are repeated way too often. i wish she got an explanation of how/ when she found out he enlisted, his thought process during that time and more info on the aftermath of his fathers death.
July 17, 2026
This book made me so mad! I was mad at him for not talking to her, I was mad at her mom for being selfish I was just mad. She was so hurt and things could have been so different. I know I know things work out how they should be but 17 years is a long damn time.
Read
September 7, 2026Tengo un pequeñísimo problema con este libro y es el siguiente, el amor de los protagonistas esta y se siente cuando están juntos porque ambos logran transmitir ese anhelo y dolor que sintieron estando juntos ya que la trama principal del libro es que ese amor de adolescencia tenga una segunda oportunidad y mi drama es que ese amor lindo no se lo ve en ningún capítulo, no hay recuerdos que nos muestren su vida antes , ni siquiera un pequeño vistazo que nos muestre el momento en el que Copeland se sintió rechazado, cosa que a mi interpretación fue algo de un hombre dolido que al no ver al amor de su vida llorando de rodillas decidió que era porque ella lo lo amo como el a ella ¿? CHICO EXISTE LA COMUNICACIÓN y si ame tus palabras y manera de expresarte con respecto a Elli pero DAME MAS 😭
July 14, 2026
ARC/ALC REVIEW
Trying Not to Love You is one of those stories that washes over you like sunshine on a coolish day. It just warms you from the inside out and it’s one of those stories filled with heart and hope from beginning to end.
I had the advantage of reading and listening to an early copy of this story and I actually did both, kind of. LOL So, the ALC landed first and of course I am jumping on a duet narration from Savannah Peachwood & Connor Crais, as one does if they are in their audiobook era! After a while I realized there were passages I wanted to remember, so I jumped on my ARC to do just that and ended up reading thru the last 25 to 30%! That is all to tell you that no matter which format (eyeballs or eras lol) you decide on, this story is going to be epic for you! Well, it was for me!
What I loved most about the story is that even when there was room for twitchy shenanigans, Kaylee didn’t really do that (👏👏👏👏) and instead made sure adults adulted properly! The story also unfolded and the relationship between Ellison & Copeland grew positively and dare I say, easily. I don’t mean easy as in no tension or conflict, I mean easy because it was relatable and realistic. It wasn’t overly dramatic, but it was definitely a gut-punch at times. It was more heartwarming than anything else and that’s the vibe I love with my second chance stories. I’m not going to give a play-by-play but you might want to grab tissues. LOL
I want to thank Team Kaylee Ryan for the opportunity to join the team for this release! I am very much looking forward to what Kaylee has in store for the rest of the Moran sisters!
Trying Not to Love You is one of those stories that washes over you like sunshine on a coolish day. It just warms you from the inside out and it’s one of those stories filled with heart and hope from beginning to end.
I had the advantage of reading and listening to an early copy of this story and I actually did both, kind of. LOL So, the ALC landed first and of course I am jumping on a duet narration from Savannah Peachwood & Connor Crais, as one does if they are in their audiobook era! After a while I realized there were passages I wanted to remember, so I jumped on my ARC to do just that and ended up reading thru the last 25 to 30%! That is all to tell you that no matter which format (eyeballs or eras lol) you decide on, this story is going to be epic for you! Well, it was for me!
What I loved most about the story is that even when there was room for twitchy shenanigans, Kaylee didn’t really do that (👏👏👏👏) and instead made sure adults adulted properly! The story also unfolded and the relationship between Ellison & Copeland grew positively and dare I say, easily. I don’t mean easy as in no tension or conflict, I mean easy because it was relatable and realistic. It wasn’t overly dramatic, but it was definitely a gut-punch at times. It was more heartwarming than anything else and that’s the vibe I love with my second chance stories. I’m not going to give a play-by-play but you might want to grab tissues. LOL
I want to thank Team Kaylee Ryan for the opportunity to join the team for this release! I am very much looking forward to what Kaylee has in store for the rest of the Moran sisters!
July 19, 2026
2.5 stars
The one good thing about this book is the family/friends. I love how KR always has the best family/friends in her groups. And I love when they have cookouts.
This book reminded me why I hate second chance romance. The reasoning for their separation of 17 years was stupid. The H was an idiot. He needed to pull his head out of his ass and man up. He needed to have a conversation with h and quit assuming stuff.
Safety
SWE. No ow/OM drama. Both have been with others during the 17 years of separation. They haven’t been with anybody in years though.
The one good thing about this book is the family/friends. I love how KR always has the best family/friends in her groups. And I love when they have cookouts.
This book reminded me why I hate second chance romance. The reasoning for their separation of 17 years was stupid. The H was an idiot. He needed to pull his head out of his ass and man up. He needed to have a conversation with h and quit assuming stuff.
Safety
SWE. No ow/OM drama. Both have been with others during the 17 years of separation. They haven’t been with anybody in years though.
Read
July 14, 2026The first of the Moran Sisters series is here! And OMG i was so excited for this one. The swoony cover, the simultaneous duet audio release (SPOILED ME!), and the tropes? I’m here for it.
Second chance romance + four inn keeping sisters overcoming trauma + protective ex military hero (one of my fav type of Kaylee heroes) + Family ensemble + COWBOYS AND SMALL TOWN? Say less. Add in Kaylee’s feel good, low angst, sweet and charming romance vibes, and this one I just new would such a heart-filler.
Now, I will say this one relies HEAVILY on miscommuncation. And my least favorite version of it- the type of long term/massive impact over a prolonged amount of time, lack of communication kind. It definitely feels like this could have been resolved easily with honesty and a transparent conversation. Instead we have years of hurt and being apart. It resolves so quickly in the book, which just proves it. SO, I love these characters, I loved their chemistry and the story once it's over everything is super sweet, I just really did not love that plot device. Prolonged miscommunication (or assumptions) that could be easily resolved just is not my fav. But, the swoons are swooning, it’s got spice too, and I’m loving the Magnolia Ridge world. (ironically I grew up in TN like many of Kaylee’s characters, and my street was “Magnolia Ridge” so it makes me extra happy to see it).
The duet audio with THE CONNOR CRAIS and THE SAVANNAH PEACHWOOD though? Epic dream team. They brought so much heart and emotion to these performances and the vocal chemistry is OUTSTANDING. LIke SWOON. They brought so much charisma to this performance as Ellison and Copeland. And now I”m hungry for ALL the sisters to get their audio treatment. (there is some yummy hints at some of the sisters’ tropes in this one AND I AM so pumped for this series!)
💛 Second chance romance
💛 Small town
💛 First love
💛Ex-military hero
💛 Blue collar romance
💛 Emotional healing
💛Miscommunicatoin
💛 High school sweethearts reunited
Second chance romance + four inn keeping sisters overcoming trauma + protective ex military hero (one of my fav type of Kaylee heroes) + Family ensemble + COWBOYS AND SMALL TOWN? Say less. Add in Kaylee’s feel good, low angst, sweet and charming romance vibes, and this one I just new would such a heart-filler.
Now, I will say this one relies HEAVILY on miscommuncation. And my least favorite version of it- the type of long term/massive impact over a prolonged amount of time, lack of communication kind. It definitely feels like this could have been resolved easily with honesty and a transparent conversation. Instead we have years of hurt and being apart. It resolves so quickly in the book, which just proves it. SO, I love these characters, I loved their chemistry and the story once it's over everything is super sweet, I just really did not love that plot device. Prolonged miscommunication (or assumptions) that could be easily resolved just is not my fav. But, the swoons are swooning, it’s got spice too, and I’m loving the Magnolia Ridge world. (ironically I grew up in TN like many of Kaylee’s characters, and my street was “Magnolia Ridge” so it makes me extra happy to see it).
The duet audio with THE CONNOR CRAIS and THE SAVANNAH PEACHWOOD though? Epic dream team. They brought so much heart and emotion to these performances and the vocal chemistry is OUTSTANDING. LIke SWOON. They brought so much charisma to this performance as Ellison and Copeland. And now I”m hungry for ALL the sisters to get their audio treatment. (there is some yummy hints at some of the sisters’ tropes in this one AND I AM so pumped for this series!)
💛 Second chance romance
💛 Small town
💛 First love
💛Ex-military hero
💛 Blue collar romance
💛 Emotional healing
💛Miscommunicatoin
💛 High school sweethearts reunited
July 9, 2026
Copeland and Ellison were each other’s first loves, convinced they’d spend forever together until Copeland left without any real explanation. Now he’s back, and they’re forced to confront the past if they want any chance at a future.
I loved how determined Copeland was to prove to Ellison just how much she has always meant to him. He had no intention of letting her slip away a second time. At the same time, I completely understood Ellison’s hesitation and her fear of having her heart broken all over again. Their journey was anything but easy, but I found myself rooting for them every step of the way.
Connor Crais and Savannah Peachwood delivered phenomenal performances. They brought the chemistry, tension, heartbreak, and longing to life so vividly that I felt every emotion right alongside them. You could truly feel their love for each other, their pain, and their determination to find their way back together.
This story will absolutely tug at your heartstrings, but it's also incredibly sweet and makes the emotional rollercoaster completely worth it.
Thank you, Kaylee Ryan for the ALC/ARC.
I loved how determined Copeland was to prove to Ellison just how much she has always meant to him. He had no intention of letting her slip away a second time. At the same time, I completely understood Ellison’s hesitation and her fear of having her heart broken all over again. Their journey was anything but easy, but I found myself rooting for them every step of the way.
Connor Crais and Savannah Peachwood delivered phenomenal performances. They brought the chemistry, tension, heartbreak, and longing to life so vividly that I felt every emotion right alongside them. You could truly feel their love for each other, their pain, and their determination to find their way back together.
This story will absolutely tug at your heartstrings, but it's also incredibly sweet and makes the emotional rollercoaster completely worth it.
Thank you, Kaylee Ryan for the ALC/ARC.
July 4, 2026
This story completely wrecked me in the best way 😭💔🎧
Copeland James wasn’t just Ellison’s first love—he was her first everything. And when he left without a word, he didn’t just break her heart… he destroyed it. Years later, when he comes back to Magnolia Ridge, all those buried feelings come rushing back—and the emotional tension is absolutely unmatched.
Ellison is strong, guarded, and still carrying the scars of a love that never truly let her go. Watching her try to protect her heart while being pulled back toward the one man who shattered it! Painfully real and so beautifully written.
And Copeland… the regret, the longing, the need to make things right this time! You feel every bit of it. He didn’t fight for her before—but now! He’s all in, and that push-and-pull between them had me completely hooked.
Now let’s talk about the AUDIOBOOK 🎧🔥
Savannah Peachwood brought Ellison to life with so much emotion and vulnerability—you can feel every ounce of heartbreak, strength, and hesitation in her voice. She is Ellison.
And Connor Crais as Copeland Absolutely unreal. The depth, the grit, the raw emotion he poured into Copeland’s character made every line hit harder. You could hear the regret, the longing, and the determination to win her back.
Together, they delivered a performance that made this story even more powerful and completely unforgettable.
This is second chance romance at its finest—angsty, emotional, and filled with a love that refuses to stay buried 💔✨
Copeland James wasn’t just Ellison’s first love—he was her first everything. And when he left without a word, he didn’t just break her heart… he destroyed it. Years later, when he comes back to Magnolia Ridge, all those buried feelings come rushing back—and the emotional tension is absolutely unmatched.
Ellison is strong, guarded, and still carrying the scars of a love that never truly let her go. Watching her try to protect her heart while being pulled back toward the one man who shattered it! Painfully real and so beautifully written.
And Copeland… the regret, the longing, the need to make things right this time! You feel every bit of it. He didn’t fight for her before—but now! He’s all in, and that push-and-pull between them had me completely hooked.
Now let’s talk about the AUDIOBOOK 🎧🔥
Savannah Peachwood brought Ellison to life with so much emotion and vulnerability—you can feel every ounce of heartbreak, strength, and hesitation in her voice. She is Ellison.
And Connor Crais as Copeland Absolutely unreal. The depth, the grit, the raw emotion he poured into Copeland’s character made every line hit harder. You could hear the regret, the longing, and the determination to win her back.
Together, they delivered a performance that made this story even more powerful and completely unforgettable.
This is second chance romance at its finest—angsty, emotional, and filled with a love that refuses to stay buried 💔✨
July 5, 2026
This was an audiobook experience that completely pulled me in. I ended up listening to it in one day without intending to, and it became one of those immersive reads where everything just clicked at the right time.
The emotional weight of this story is really where it shines. It leans heavily into second chance angst, the kind built on years of silence, misunderstanding, and unresolved love.
What stood out most, though, was the narration.
Savannah Peachwood delivers Ellison’s emotional arc with real depth and clarity, but it was Connor Crais who surprised me most here. His performance felt raw, vulnerable, and grounded in a way that gave Copeland’s regret real texture.
Together, they elevate an already emotional story into something that feels even more immersive in audio.
It’s a mix of angst, tenderness, spice, and small town comfort — and it sets up the sister series really well. I loved the experience of it, especially in audio, and I’m fully invested in where this series goes next.
Perfect for Readers Who Love
* second chance romance with emotional depth
* first love reunion stories
* military separation tropes
* small town family series
* strong audiobook performances
The emotional weight of this story is really where it shines. It leans heavily into second chance angst, the kind built on years of silence, misunderstanding, and unresolved love.
What stood out most, though, was the narration.
Savannah Peachwood delivers Ellison’s emotional arc with real depth and clarity, but it was Connor Crais who surprised me most here. His performance felt raw, vulnerable, and grounded in a way that gave Copeland’s regret real texture.
Together, they elevate an already emotional story into something that feels even more immersive in audio.
It’s a mix of angst, tenderness, spice, and small town comfort — and it sets up the sister series really well. I loved the experience of it, especially in audio, and I’m fully invested in where this series goes next.
Perfect for Readers Who Love
* second chance romance with emotional depth
* first love reunion stories
* military separation tropes
* small town family series
* strong audiobook performances
September 23, 2026
Geez where do I start. Was this cute? Yup it had its moments. But it also had some annoying moments too
Copeland leaves town and joins the military never telling Ellison. He sent letters and never got a reply. They both were heartbroken and never got over each other. Fast forward 17 years.
Like seriously 😐 come on. He asks his friend if she still has the same phone number. Shocker she does!!! He never tried to call her?? Just decided snail mail was the way to go and never call when she didn’t reply? So he just let 17 years go by?? Really….
Then the dumb Ellison moment.. she realizes they didn’t use protection, and she’s not on birth control. “How do I trust he won’t leave again, that I won’t be doing this alone?” Seriously 😒 girl… you decided you don’t want to take any responsibility on no bc or morning after pill. Okay fine… but now you’re all woah is me if you end up pregnant?
As if one instance wasn’t enough.. she tells him to finish in her on a separate occasion. Then after panics and says she late. And says oh my god. Make up your mind!!!
All that said once they did meet and start to try to work things out the communication was good.
Cute second chance romance
Copeland leaves town and joins the military never telling Ellison. He sent letters and never got a reply. They both were heartbroken and never got over each other. Fast forward 17 years.
Like seriously 😐 come on. He asks his friend if she still has the same phone number. Shocker she does!!! He never tried to call her?? Just decided snail mail was the way to go and never call when she didn’t reply? So he just let 17 years go by?? Really….
Then the dumb Ellison moment.. she realizes they didn’t use protection, and she’s not on birth control. “How do I trust he won’t leave again, that I won’t be doing this alone?” Seriously 😒 girl… you decided you don’t want to take any responsibility on no bc or morning after pill. Okay fine… but now you’re all woah is me if you end up pregnant?
As if one instance wasn’t enough.. she tells him to finish in her on a separate occasion. Then after panics and says she late. And says oh my god. Make up your mind!!!
All that said once they did meet and start to try to work things out the communication was good.
Cute second chance romance
July 3, 2026
What a perfect start to this new series!! This might be my new fave book by Kaylee!! I absolutely loved Copeland & Ellison!!
Second chance romance, full of emotion, healing, and just a beautiful story of first love and never letting go!! This story was done so perfectly with the communication, character growth, and just absolutely amazing family dynamics!! The twist & all that went into this story, kept me hooked and loving every second! You will absolutely swoon and fall in love with this one!!
I am loving these sisters & all the side characters from this story!! I cannot wait to see what else is in store for them all!!
Thank you Kaylee & team for this early reading opportunity!!
Second chance romance, full of emotion, healing, and just a beautiful story of first love and never letting go!! This story was done so perfectly with the communication, character growth, and just absolutely amazing family dynamics!! The twist & all that went into this story, kept me hooked and loving every second! You will absolutely swoon and fall in love with this one!!
I am loving these sisters & all the side characters from this story!! I cannot wait to see what else is in store for them all!!
Thank you Kaylee & team for this early reading opportunity!!
September 4, 2026
My poor heart...
I really wanted to not like Copeland. I really did but as the story evolved and he was moving heaven and earth to show her he's here to stay, I couldn't help but fall madly in love with him.
Ellison was trying so hard not to show just how much she missed him over the years. But when he comes back home, she not letting him back so easily. I barley survived when he left and giving her heart a second time to be broken is not on her list. But keeps her feelings locked away seems impossible when the only man you ever loved is right there trying to give you everything you ever wanted.
I was a crying mess while reading this to be honest. The heartache, hurt and so much love was felt throughout the book and when our love birds finally found their way back to each other I was left with the biggest smile on my face. And now I'm so excited to see what happens next with Moran sisters.
I really wanted to not like Copeland. I really did but as the story evolved and he was moving heaven and earth to show her he's here to stay, I couldn't help but fall madly in love with him.
Ellison was trying so hard not to show just how much she missed him over the years. But when he comes back home, she not letting him back so easily. I barley survived when he left and giving her heart a second time to be broken is not on her list. But keeps her feelings locked away seems impossible when the only man you ever loved is right there trying to give you everything you ever wanted.
I was a crying mess while reading this to be honest. The heartache, hurt and so much love was felt throughout the book and when our love birds finally found their way back to each other I was left with the biggest smile on my face. And now I'm so excited to see what happens next with Moran sisters.
July 15, 2026
This was a super sweet, low angst story. Set in a small town surrounding a group of sisters and friends. Ellison and Copeland get their second chance after years apart.
The audiobook was duet and phenomenal. Connor Crais and Savannah Peachwood are two of my favorites, and they did a fabulous job! They fit the characters nicely and voiced all the side characters so well.
Duet narration
Narrators: Savannah Peachwood and Connor Crais
ALC review
🤍Second chance 🤍Ex Military MMC 🤍Small town 🤍Found family/big friend group 🤍It’s always been you
ALC review
🤍Second chance 🤍Ex Military MMC 🤍Small town 🤍Found family/big friend group 🤍It’s always been you
July 8, 2026
4.5 stars
Wonderful start to the series! Kaylee is a new to me author. I loved the character development, dual POV and the Moran sisters dynamic; they were very close knit. The prologue stars off emotional and sets the tone for the first half of the story. Second chance is one of my favorite tropes because of the shared history and the undeniable love they have for each other even after so many years. I felt an emotional connection between Copeland and Ellison because they still had a strong bond and that spark was still there.
The audiobook is duet narration by Connor Crais and Savannah Peachwood. I thought they were fantastic as Copeland and Ellison. They became the characters and exuded all the pain and hurt these two characters felt. In the more emotional scenes, they elevated the dialogue even more with their expressive tones. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Audiobook Release Date: July 14, 2026
Thank you to @mustloveaudio for my ALC and for the opportunity to review and listen.
Wonderful start to the series! Kaylee is a new to me author. I loved the character development, dual POV and the Moran sisters dynamic; they were very close knit. The prologue stars off emotional and sets the tone for the first half of the story. Second chance is one of my favorite tropes because of the shared history and the undeniable love they have for each other even after so many years. I felt an emotional connection between Copeland and Ellison because they still had a strong bond and that spark was still there.
The audiobook is duet narration by Connor Crais and Savannah Peachwood. I thought they were fantastic as Copeland and Ellison. They became the characters and exuded all the pain and hurt these two characters felt. In the more emotional scenes, they elevated the dialogue even more with their expressive tones. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Audiobook Release Date: July 14, 2026
Thank you to @mustloveaudio for my ALC and for the opportunity to review and listen.
July 2, 2026
This book was so so beautiful! When you want a precious second chance love story - this is your book!
I fell in love instantly with Copeland and Ellison. They were high school sweethearts who fell apart from each when Copeland left for the marines. Lots of other forces and miscommunication at play but they never stopped loving each other.
Copeland was so down bad for Ellison and she was right there with him. True soulmates. They were meant to be and I loved how they found each other again.
Secret tattoos, surprises and revelations made for a book that pulls at your heart strings!
This book was everything I needed it to be and I haven’t stopped thinking about this book since I finished it. I cannot wait to listen to the audio!
The family dynamics in this one were amazing and it makes me so excited for more from the Moran sisters!
What to expect:
Second Chance
High School Sweetheart
Ex-Military Hero
First Love
Emotional Healing
Small Town
Blue Collar
Thank you Kaylee and team for the eARC opportunity!
I fell in love instantly with Copeland and Ellison. They were high school sweethearts who fell apart from each when Copeland left for the marines. Lots of other forces and miscommunication at play but they never stopped loving each other.
Copeland was so down bad for Ellison and she was right there with him. True soulmates. They were meant to be and I loved how they found each other again.
Secret tattoos, surprises and revelations made for a book that pulls at your heart strings!
This book was everything I needed it to be and I haven’t stopped thinking about this book since I finished it. I cannot wait to listen to the audio!
The family dynamics in this one were amazing and it makes me so excited for more from the Moran sisters!
What to expect:
Second Chance
High School Sweetheart
Ex-Military Hero
First Love
Emotional Healing
Small Town
Blue Collar
Thank you Kaylee and team for the eARC opportunity!
June 28, 2026
This was my first book by Kaylee but it definitely won’t be my last!
The story begins with a tragedy but the Moran sisters always have each other. Copeland and Ellison were high school sweethearts completely in love until something happens to break them up.
They haven’t talked in 17 years but now Copeland is home to help his mom with her cancer diagnosis.
I loved so much about this story! The bond between all four Moran sisters, the inn setting, the chemistry between Ellison and Copeland. If you’re looking for a small town series that’s based on sisters this is the book for you!
Tropes:
🤍 second chance romance
🤍 ex-military hero
🤍 small town romance
🤍 found family
🤍 emotional drama
🤍 miscommunication
🤍 both characters in their 30s
That if Ellison were mine again, I’d make sure she knew what she meant to me every damn day.
It’s been seventeen years since I’ve laid eyes on him. I gave Copeland James my heart all those years ago, and today, he still owns it.
Thank you to Kaylee Ryan and team Kaylee for the arc
The story begins with a tragedy but the Moran sisters always have each other. Copeland and Ellison were high school sweethearts completely in love until something happens to break them up.
They haven’t talked in 17 years but now Copeland is home to help his mom with her cancer diagnosis.
I loved so much about this story! The bond between all four Moran sisters, the inn setting, the chemistry between Ellison and Copeland. If you’re looking for a small town series that’s based on sisters this is the book for you!
Tropes:
🤍 second chance romance
🤍 ex-military hero
🤍 small town romance
🤍 found family
🤍 emotional drama
🤍 miscommunication
🤍 both characters in their 30s
That if Ellison were mine again, I’d make sure she knew what she meant to me every damn day.
It’s been seventeen years since I’ve laid eyes on him. I gave Copeland James my heart all those years ago, and today, he still owns it.
Thank you to Kaylee Ryan and team Kaylee for the arc
August 11, 2026
If this audiobook wasn’t the only thing entertaining me during work, I would’ve DNFed almost immediately. I mean, it’s been 17 years since you and your high school boyfriend broke up, you haven’t talked since, yet you’re still in the love with him?? And he left her without a second thought but he apparently loved her so much that he’s pining from a distance for two decades but hasn’t bothered to so much as call her in all the year he was away.
This book was just a terrible romance plot. It was unbelievable that a 15 year old girl is still in love with the 18 year old who left her after all this time. Also, ewww age gap?? Hello, someone call the police. I think what made this even more criminal is when they hookup without protection (before even having a real conversation might I add) and he says that if at least if she got pregnant she’d be in his life forever. *vomit*
June 28, 2026
Kaylee, you absolutely gave us a beautiful start to a brand new series! Trying Not To Love You by Kaylee Ryan is book one in the Moran Sisters series. Set in a small town, Magnolia Ridge, this story follows one of four very close sisters in a heartfelt, emotional and so swoony story of first love, second chances, and an ex-military hero who never truly let go.
Ellison Moran, oldest of the four sisters. Always the strong, independent one. When their parents tragically die in her early 20’s, she steps up to keep the family together, help raise the sisters and run the beautiful Magnolia Manor Inn. This woman is selfless and loving. But deep down, for 17 years, her heart has been absolutely broken. And it has so deeply effected her.
Copeland James, this man. An ex-Marine come home to take care of his ill mother and face the past. He is so kind, caring, so loving. He has never stopped loving Ells. But there are so many unanswered questions, so many regrets, unforgiveness and so many assumptions.
I loved how Kaylee weaved in true communication, getting everything out in the open. Working through the hurt to grow a slow healing and claiming the soul deep love these two truly deserved! The connection between them is undeniable. It’s so inevitable they are meant to be. Life and assuming just gets so in the way sometimes. The passion between these two is a beautiful, strong heat that burns off the pages!
I LOVED the found family of this book. The sisters; Courtlynn, Leighton and Baylor were perfect! I loved how these girls, plus all their best friends were a rock for each other. Add in the boys; Bowen, Dixon and Macklin, who I HOPE we get to see so much more of! And all the other family, it was all just so good!
Kaylee took us from one amazing 5 star series right into another that I already know is going to be another favorite! She truly weaves into her stories such a deep sense of love, healing, the importance of communication and a family that loves truly and unconditionally. Such a great start to this series! I already have my couples picked out Kaylee! Can't wait to see who’s next!
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌼Second Chance
🌼High School Sweetheart
🌼Ex-Military Hero
🌼First Love
🌼Emotional Healing
🌼Small Town
🌼Blue Collar
🦋Thank you Kaylee Ryan for the privilege of being a part of your influencer team!
Ellison Moran, oldest of the four sisters. Always the strong, independent one. When their parents tragically die in her early 20’s, she steps up to keep the family together, help raise the sisters and run the beautiful Magnolia Manor Inn. This woman is selfless and loving. But deep down, for 17 years, her heart has been absolutely broken. And it has so deeply effected her.
Copeland James, this man. An ex-Marine come home to take care of his ill mother and face the past. He is so kind, caring, so loving. He has never stopped loving Ells. But there are so many unanswered questions, so many regrets, unforgiveness and so many assumptions.
I loved how Kaylee weaved in true communication, getting everything out in the open. Working through the hurt to grow a slow healing and claiming the soul deep love these two truly deserved! The connection between them is undeniable. It’s so inevitable they are meant to be. Life and assuming just gets so in the way sometimes. The passion between these two is a beautiful, strong heat that burns off the pages!
I LOVED the found family of this book. The sisters; Courtlynn, Leighton and Baylor were perfect! I loved how these girls, plus all their best friends were a rock for each other. Add in the boys; Bowen, Dixon and Macklin, who I HOPE we get to see so much more of! And all the other family, it was all just so good!
Kaylee took us from one amazing 5 star series right into another that I already know is going to be another favorite! She truly weaves into her stories such a deep sense of love, healing, the importance of communication and a family that loves truly and unconditionally. Such a great start to this series! I already have my couples picked out Kaylee! Can't wait to see who’s next!
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌼Second Chance
🌼High School Sweetheart
🌼Ex-Military Hero
🌼First Love
🌼Emotional Healing
🌼Small Town
🌼Blue Collar
🦋Thank you Kaylee Ryan for the privilege of being a part of your influencer team!
July 13, 2026
ARC Review of Trying Not To Love You Book 1 in the Moran Sisters Series by Kaylee Ryan. I absolutely loved this book. It is a 5 star read for me. This book was an emotional read, it gave me all the feels. It had my heart breaking in the first few pages but I loved how it put it back together. I loved meeting the four Moran sisters in this book and can't for the other three sisters stories in this new series. I love how much they love each other and how close they all are. This is Ellison and Copeland's story. Second chance romance always makes me sad. I hate that Ellison and Copeland have been apart for 17 years but I love that they never stopped loving each other and finally got their HEA. This is a slow burn, spicy, small town, retired marine mmc, meddling mom, it’s always been you, forced proximity, second chance romance. Set in the small town of Magnolia Ridge. Ellison Moran is 32 and the oldest Moran sister. She runs her family’s inn, Magnolia Manor. Copeland James is 35 and has been a Marine for the past 17 years. Ellison and Copeland dated in high school and were each other’s first and only loves but he broke her heart when he left for the Marines without telling her. Ellison and Copeland haven’t seen or spoken to each other since he left 17 years ago. When Copeland finds out his mom is sick he moves back home to Magnolia Ridge to be there for her and his brother. Ellison is very close with Copeland’s mom and lets him stay at the inn for as long as he needs as a favor to his mother. Neither Ellison or Copeland have moved on and both still love each other but there is a lot of hurt and unanswered questions between them. With Copeland staying at the inn he isn’t going to waste his chance at reuniting with Ellison. Ellison is the love of his life the person he always dreamed of a future with and he isn’t walking away this time. He is going to fight for her and make sure they get their second chance. I absolutely loved this book and definitely recommend it.
I also listened to the ALC and I absolutely loved it. Connor Crais and Savannah Peachwood are fantastic narrating Copeland and Ellison. I really enjoyed listening to it.
I also listened to the ALC and I absolutely loved it. Connor Crais and Savannah Peachwood are fantastic narrating Copeland and Ellison. I really enjoyed listening to it.
July 15, 2026
I received a gifted ALC and physical ARC via the author and I’m voluntarily submitting this review. TRYING NOT TO LOVE YOU is the first book in the MORAN SISTERS series by Kaylee Ryan. Ellison and Copeland have a second chance for love when he returns to their small town, after nearly two decades in the Marines, when his mother is diagnosed with cancer. It is a 288 page novel and under eight hour audiobook, spicy, open door, first person, dual POV, contemporary romance novel which touched on the following tropes: Second Chance, High School Sweetheart, Ex-Military Hero, First Love, Emotional Healing, Small Town, Letter Writing, and Blue Collar. Of the novels I have read, this is one the author’s best and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I felt that the emotional depth was more visceral than in other books I have read, and the reason that Ellison and Copeland were parted and how they discovered the reason for their miscommunication was a heart-wrenching plot twist that dug into unresolved grief and loss and prevented the couple from getting closure. This is the type of story that argues for the existence of a soul mate as even after having been parted for close to two decades, each believing that the other had abandoned them, it took very little time for them to be back in each other’s lives. They were older and more committed to fighting for their relationship. I really loved that Everlasting Ink made a cameo mention in this story! The narrators were Connor Crais and Savannah Peachwood, who did a mind blowing job with the story. This is the first time I have listened to one of the author’s audiobooks, and I do think it increased my appreciation for the novel. The narrators used a variety of voices to distinguish between characters and the recording did well at multiple different speeds. I do recommend this novel for lovers of second chance romance in whatever format you prefer - audio, ebook, paperback, or hardback, and it can be found in the kindleunlimited library.
July 13, 2026
Dude. I LOVED this story.
Thank you so much to Must Love Audio for the ALC! These are my honest thoughts.
I was INSTANTLY into this story, and I enjoyed literally every second of this audiobook. Ellison and Copeland have changed a lot since the last time they saw each other, but both carry their heartbreak with them every day of their lives. Cope left without so much as a word, and when he returned to town, it was too hard to see Ellison living and happy without missing him, so he stopped coming home. His life in the Marine filled the gap left by Ellison, but when his mom is diagnosed with cancer, he doesn't hesitate to retire and return home, even knowing how hard it was going to be to see the love of his life with someone else.
But when he gets back into town, he realizes that she hasn't quite moved on from him in the way he never moved on from her. Add in a meddling mom, some forced proximity, there's only one inn, and found family, and we've got ourselves quite the romance story!
READ IF YOU LOVE:
- second chance
- loml vibes (both the love of my life + the loss of my life kinds!)
- small town, magnolia ridge
- military romance
- first love
- it's always been you
- high school sweethearts
- the loss of parents
- grief
- mourning the life you thought you'd once have
THE AUDIOBOOK: Narrated by Connor Crais and Savannah Peachwood, I was DOWN BAD for this audiobook. Crais as Copeland was LITERALLY PERFECT. Copeland wants to win his girl back, no matter what it takes, and he is swoooooony in his endeavors. It was equally swoony to have Crais in my ears, bringing Copeland to life. Ellison, played by Peachwood, has been THROUGH IT. She lost both of her parents, Copeland left town, and now a woman who was like a mother to her has cancer. Peachwood brought all these emotions to life in such a powerful way. Big fan. Check this one out on audio on July 14th!
Thank you so much to Must Love Audio for the ALC! These are my honest thoughts.
I was INSTANTLY into this story, and I enjoyed literally every second of this audiobook. Ellison and Copeland have changed a lot since the last time they saw each other, but both carry their heartbreak with them every day of their lives. Cope left without so much as a word, and when he returned to town, it was too hard to see Ellison living and happy without missing him, so he stopped coming home. His life in the Marine filled the gap left by Ellison, but when his mom is diagnosed with cancer, he doesn't hesitate to retire and return home, even knowing how hard it was going to be to see the love of his life with someone else.
But when he gets back into town, he realizes that she hasn't quite moved on from him in the way he never moved on from her. Add in a meddling mom, some forced proximity, there's only one inn, and found family, and we've got ourselves quite the romance story!
READ IF YOU LOVE:
- second chance
- loml vibes (both the love of my life + the loss of my life kinds!)
- small town, magnolia ridge
- military romance
- first love
- it's always been you
- high school sweethearts
- the loss of parents
- grief
- mourning the life you thought you'd once have
THE AUDIOBOOK: Narrated by Connor Crais and Savannah Peachwood, I was DOWN BAD for this audiobook. Crais as Copeland was LITERALLY PERFECT. Copeland wants to win his girl back, no matter what it takes, and he is swoooooony in his endeavors. It was equally swoony to have Crais in my ears, bringing Copeland to life. Ellison, played by Peachwood, has been THROUGH IT. She lost both of her parents, Copeland left town, and now a woman who was like a mother to her has cancer. Peachwood brought all these emotions to life in such a powerful way. Big fan. Check this one out on audio on July 14th!
July 15, 2026
#Review: *Trying Not to Love You* - Kaylee Ryan - ARC [18+]
4.5/5✨
3/5🌶️
Ellison and Copeland used to be everything to each other. That was until he decided that it would be better for both of them if he left and joined the Marines. But that decision broke Ellison's heart and she never managed to find peace with his choice. Years have passed and Ellison hasn't found someone else who could fill the void left by Cope and when he came back in town, she felt conflicted, wanting to hate him for leaving her behind, but in her heart he was still the love of her life. Copeland came back to Magnolia Ridge to take care of his ill mom, but he was also determined to won back the heart of the woman he always loved. Will he be able to earn her forgiveness and manage to restore the connection they once had?
I was instantly invested into this story because of the second chance romance, which it was really interesting thanks to those unfinished businesses between Ellison and Cope. I liked that she was so unsure about how she should feel about Cope, wanting so bad to remain mad at him, but there were still so many feelings left for him in her heart. I was addicted to that slow burn which made the tension between them almost unbearable. I was so curious about why Copeland decided to leave and why he stayed away from Magnolia Ridge for so long. Also, I really wanted to see what was he willing to do to earn Ellison's trust again.
This was such a nice, yet super intense small town romance, with such lovely and captivating second chance romance, which will definitely make you enjoy this story.
Super grateful to be part of Kaylee's ARC team and for being able to read this heartwarming book🩵.
✨Tropes
▫️Second Chance Romance
▫️Returning Home
▫️Small Town
▫️First Love
▫️Ex-Military Hero
▫️High School Sweethearts
▫️Soulmates
▫️Emotional Healing
4.5/5✨
3/5🌶️
Ellison and Copeland used to be everything to each other. That was until he decided that it would be better for both of them if he left and joined the Marines. But that decision broke Ellison's heart and she never managed to find peace with his choice. Years have passed and Ellison hasn't found someone else who could fill the void left by Cope and when he came back in town, she felt conflicted, wanting to hate him for leaving her behind, but in her heart he was still the love of her life. Copeland came back to Magnolia Ridge to take care of his ill mom, but he was also determined to won back the heart of the woman he always loved. Will he be able to earn her forgiveness and manage to restore the connection they once had?
I was instantly invested into this story because of the second chance romance, which it was really interesting thanks to those unfinished businesses between Ellison and Cope. I liked that she was so unsure about how she should feel about Cope, wanting so bad to remain mad at him, but there were still so many feelings left for him in her heart. I was addicted to that slow burn which made the tension between them almost unbearable. I was so curious about why Copeland decided to leave and why he stayed away from Magnolia Ridge for so long. Also, I really wanted to see what was he willing to do to earn Ellison's trust again.
This was such a nice, yet super intense small town romance, with such lovely and captivating second chance romance, which will definitely make you enjoy this story.
Super grateful to be part of Kaylee's ARC team and for being able to read this heartwarming book🩵.
✨Tropes
▫️Second Chance Romance
▫️Returning Home
▫️Small Town
▫️First Love
▫️Ex-Military Hero
▫️High School Sweethearts
▫️Soulmates
▫️Emotional Healing
June 30, 2026
ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖢𝗈𝗉𝖾𝗅𝖺𝗇𝖽
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖤𝗅𝗅𝗂𝗌𝗈𝗇
4.5 𝘵𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
New series, new world and new characters, a perfect start to this new series.
Ellison and Copeland had an everlasting love, with a plan for the future, but things never happened the way they planned.
Ellison, betrayal and pain, that's what she went through when the man she loved, joined the marines and never returned home. She picked up the pieces of her broken heart and tried her best to move on.
Copeland, Ellison was his woman, she had his heart in the palm of her hands. He joined the Marines to secure their future, he never wanted her needing for anything if anything were to happen to him. But he never thought it would break them. He tried moving on, but it left him feeling hollow, so he just stopped all together.
Returning to his hometown was never an option, but when he finds out his mum isn't well, he is on the road to Magnolia Ridge. And when he finds out his woman is single, he will fight to win her heart once again.
This was the first book in the Moran sisters series. I loved the town, the vibes and the relationship these sisters had. It was a beautiful shift from the all boy siblings/ friends and I was literally here for it.
Copeland and Ellison's love was so beautiful, the emotions had me in a chokehold. And that twist to what kept them apart, had me freaking raging for them.
The chemistry and spice!! 🔥
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Loved the friendgroup in this book, the banter and love they have for each other was beautiful.
And I want everyone to get a book 😂🫣
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 💋💋💋💋💋
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚 📚 📚 📚.5
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧💧💧
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖢𝗈𝗉𝖾𝗅𝖺𝗇𝖽
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖤𝗅𝗅𝗂𝗌𝗈𝗇
4.5 𝘵𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
New series, new world and new characters, a perfect start to this new series.
Ellison and Copeland had an everlasting love, with a plan for the future, but things never happened the way they planned.
Ellison, betrayal and pain, that's what she went through when the man she loved, joined the marines and never returned home. She picked up the pieces of her broken heart and tried her best to move on.
Copeland, Ellison was his woman, she had his heart in the palm of her hands. He joined the Marines to secure their future, he never wanted her needing for anything if anything were to happen to him. But he never thought it would break them. He tried moving on, but it left him feeling hollow, so he just stopped all together.
Returning to his hometown was never an option, but when he finds out his mum isn't well, he is on the road to Magnolia Ridge. And when he finds out his woman is single, he will fight to win her heart once again.
This was the first book in the Moran sisters series. I loved the town, the vibes and the relationship these sisters had. It was a beautiful shift from the all boy siblings/ friends and I was literally here for it.
Copeland and Ellison's love was so beautiful, the emotions had me in a chokehold. And that twist to what kept them apart, had me freaking raging for them.
The chemistry and spice!! 🔥
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Loved the friendgroup in this book, the banter and love they have for each other was beautiful.
And I want everyone to get a book 😂🫣
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 💋💋💋💋💋
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚 📚 📚 📚.5
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧💧💧
June 28, 2026
Wow! What an amazing first book in this new series! I love me a second chance story, and Kaylee delivered one of the best ones I've read this year! Copeland and Ellison will for sure steal your heart and give you ALL the feels! 5+ stars for this one!
Ellison is just trying to get through life. She became the caretaker of her younger siblings when they lost their parents in a tragic accident. She also was left brokenhearted by the love of her life, who joined the military and never looked back. Seventeen years of missing him, loving him, and now he's back in town to help take care of his mother, and she's not sure how she feels about this! She's sure she can avoid him, that is until he shows up at the Inn, and needs a room. This will start their healing process, all orchestrated by his other!
Copeland left seventeen years ago and joined the service. His intentions were to set up Ellison for life in case something ever happened to him. He wrote her endless letters, but she never responded, and when he came home after basic training, he saw her laughing and having a great time, and he mistakes that for her having moved on. Now he's back to help care for his mother, and when he see's Ellison's reaction to seeing him for the first time in all those years, and finds out she's single, he vows to make it his mission to win her back. After all, she's the only woman he's ever loved.
This story, so well written, to make you feel all their emotions as you read their story, was unmatched. Kaylee did an amazing job on this one, and I can't wait for the next book in this series! Grab it asap!
Ellison is just trying to get through life. She became the caretaker of her younger siblings when they lost their parents in a tragic accident. She also was left brokenhearted by the love of her life, who joined the military and never looked back. Seventeen years of missing him, loving him, and now he's back in town to help take care of his mother, and she's not sure how she feels about this! She's sure she can avoid him, that is until he shows up at the Inn, and needs a room. This will start their healing process, all orchestrated by his other!
Copeland left seventeen years ago and joined the service. His intentions were to set up Ellison for life in case something ever happened to him. He wrote her endless letters, but she never responded, and when he came home after basic training, he saw her laughing and having a great time, and he mistakes that for her having moved on. Now he's back to help care for his mother, and when he see's Ellison's reaction to seeing him for the first time in all those years, and finds out she's single, he vows to make it his mission to win her back. After all, she's the only woman he's ever loved.
This story, so well written, to make you feel all their emotions as you read their story, was unmatched. Kaylee did an amazing job on this one, and I can't wait for the next book in this series! Grab it asap!
June 25, 2026
** Audio Review **
Swoon… Trying Not to Love You by Kaylee Ryan was a sweet and sentimental second-chance romance that tugged at my heartstrings in all the best ways. I couldn’t get enough of Ellison and Copeland’s “it’s always been you” steadfast vibes that never faltered, making me melt and long for these two to get their second chance at happiness together. This was my first Kaylee Ryan book and won’t be my last.
Savannah Peachwood and Connor Crais perform this audiobook in duet-style narration, and this duo never lets me down. Savannah’s soft, soothing voice embodied all of Ellison’s doubts and desires as she sorted out her feelings for Copeland. Connor’s deep, rumbly timbre perfectly complemented Copeland’s determined and dedicated demeanor as he made it his mission to prove his loyalty and love for Ellison. (making this man simply irresistible, seriously) Both narrators created an undeniable yearning between these two that made their chemistry electric.
Overall, I loved this book. If you are a fan of a small town romance with a heroine devoted to the family business, a hot grumpy former marine finally coming home, seventeen years of yearning, a meddling mother with a good intentions, all the letters, second chances, supportive sisters, slow burn steam, intimate conversations, truths about the past, secret tattoos, additional surprises, and a HEA that will make your heart happy, then you will love Ellison and Copeland’s romance. I am looking forward to more from Kaylee Ryan.
Swoon… Trying Not to Love You by Kaylee Ryan was a sweet and sentimental second-chance romance that tugged at my heartstrings in all the best ways. I couldn’t get enough of Ellison and Copeland’s “it’s always been you” steadfast vibes that never faltered, making me melt and long for these two to get their second chance at happiness together. This was my first Kaylee Ryan book and won’t be my last.
Savannah Peachwood and Connor Crais perform this audiobook in duet-style narration, and this duo never lets me down. Savannah’s soft, soothing voice embodied all of Ellison’s doubts and desires as she sorted out her feelings for Copeland. Connor’s deep, rumbly timbre perfectly complemented Copeland’s determined and dedicated demeanor as he made it his mission to prove his loyalty and love for Ellison. (making this man simply irresistible, seriously) Both narrators created an undeniable yearning between these two that made their chemistry electric.
Overall, I loved this book. If you are a fan of a small town romance with a heroine devoted to the family business, a hot grumpy former marine finally coming home, seventeen years of yearning, a meddling mother with a good intentions, all the letters, second chances, supportive sisters, slow burn steam, intimate conversations, truths about the past, secret tattoos, additional surprises, and a HEA that will make your heart happy, then you will love Ellison and Copeland’s romance. I am looking forward to more from Kaylee Ryan.
Read
August 17, 2026Not really one to write negative reviews but…
The MMC would have been 18 when he left, and he was three years older than the FMC. I kept expecting to find out that they never had sex, it was the puppy love of youth—and even then, I’d have cringed because 15 - 18 is too big a gap at that stage of life. Alas, apparently these two teenagers were going at it in the dead of night while Mom and Dad slept soundly in another room.
Also, the letters were held back by the heroine’s mother, and I expected them to have been held back for the reasons stated in the last paragraph: the FMC was to young to be making life-long plans with her first boyfriend. As a mother—fuck, as a human with some iota commonsense—that would be the reasons I’d limit communication between them. Holy grooming, Batman.
Don’t even get me started with the reasoning behind him leaving in the first place, why he came back (not for her, for his ill mother), and his excuses for not approaching her when he saw her in the intervening years. If he’d had an attack of conscience about her age, maybe I’d be able to buy everything else as a grasping-at-straws reason to leave to cover for *checks notes* in case he died, he wanted her to have spousal military benefits.
Look, I’ve read a ton of books by this author. They’re never the best, they always need some editing and timeline corrections, but usually they’re enjoyable enough flotsam to help distract me from the horrors of life. This one just made me mad and still I finished it. And god help me, I’ll no doubt read the next one too.
The MMC would have been 18 when he left, and he was three years older than the FMC. I kept expecting to find out that they never had sex, it was the puppy love of youth—and even then, I’d have cringed because 15 - 18 is too big a gap at that stage of life. Alas, apparently these two teenagers were going at it in the dead of night while Mom and Dad slept soundly in another room.
Also, the letters were held back by the heroine’s mother, and I expected them to have been held back for the reasons stated in the last paragraph: the FMC was to young to be making life-long plans with her first boyfriend. As a mother—fuck, as a human with some iota commonsense—that would be the reasons I’d limit communication between them. Holy grooming, Batman.
Don’t even get me started with the reasoning behind him leaving in the first place, why he came back (not for her, for his ill mother), and his excuses for not approaching her when he saw her in the intervening years. If he’d had an attack of conscience about her age, maybe I’d be able to buy everything else as a grasping-at-straws reason to leave to cover for *checks notes* in case he died, he wanted her to have spousal military benefits.
Look, I’ve read a ton of books by this author. They’re never the best, they always need some editing and timeline corrections, but usually they’re enjoyable enough flotsam to help distract me from the horrors of life. This one just made me mad and still I finished it. And god help me, I’ll no doubt read the next one too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2026
Kaylee Ryan’s starts this newest series with the heartbreak and realities of life while shining hope on the powers of love and community. Trying Not to Love you is the first installment in the Moran Sister’s series and I am so excited to get this female sister center series! This novel is full of the Ryan-isms I know, love, and expect when I crack open one of her books! Ryan’s comforting and easy to engage with tone will immediately draw you in, her characters are rich and dimensional, and the community of the people who surround and support the romantic couple provide depth and reality.
Ellison and Copeland are soul mates who have had the misunderstanding trope and innocence and naivety of youth keep them apart for many years. I adore an unrequited love trope and Ryan lends her talent to this as she explores what it means to find your soul mate in your teens while not truly being mature enough to handle all those emotions and the newness of adulthood. Through care, bravery and communication, Ellison and Copeland are finally able to understand what tore them apart and take ownership of their part. I really love that Ryan does not make this a story of anger and fighting. These two love each other and this is clear from the beginning. While they both might have their own fears, they both take a chance in the other and are rewarded with a love that has stood the test of time, distance and misunderstanding.
Kaylee Ryan is a must read author! Each and every one of her stories feels like a soft and warm hug! I am so excited for this new venture, for these sisters (I am also the oldest of four sisters), and watch each one fall in love while still supporting each other in this crazy journey of life.
Thank you to Kaylee Ryan for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ellison and Copeland are soul mates who have had the misunderstanding trope and innocence and naivety of youth keep them apart for many years. I adore an unrequited love trope and Ryan lends her talent to this as she explores what it means to find your soul mate in your teens while not truly being mature enough to handle all those emotions and the newness of adulthood. Through care, bravery and communication, Ellison and Copeland are finally able to understand what tore them apart and take ownership of their part. I really love that Ryan does not make this a story of anger and fighting. These two love each other and this is clear from the beginning. While they both might have their own fears, they both take a chance in the other and are rewarded with a love that has stood the test of time, distance and misunderstanding.
Kaylee Ryan is a must read author! Each and every one of her stories feels like a soft and warm hug! I am so excited for this new venture, for these sisters (I am also the oldest of four sisters), and watch each one fall in love while still supporting each other in this crazy journey of life.
Thank you to Kaylee Ryan for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 8, 2026
ARC Review
4.5 Stars!!!!
Thank you to Kaylee Ryan for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Trying Not to Love You follows Ellison and Copeland, first loves who were separated when Copeland left their small town to join the Marines. Years later, he’s back in Magnolia Ridge, hoping for a second chance with the woman he never stopped loving.
This was my first Kaylee Ryan book, and it definitely won’t be my last.
Ellison and Copeland had incredible chemistry, and there were so many moments that had me smiling and kicking my feet. Their history together made their reunion feel emotional and heartfelt, and I really enjoyed watching them rebuild what they had lost.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was the Moran sisters. I loved their dynamic and how each sister brought something different to the story. Ellison’s protective nature really captured that classic eldest daughter energy, and it made their family relationships feel authentic.
Courtlynn completely stole the show for me. She was funny, blunt, confident, and refused to let anyone walk all over her. Every scene with her was entertaining, and I’m already looking forward to reading her story.
The supporting cast also added so much charm, making Magnolia Ridge feel like the kind of small town you’d want to visit. It gave me cozy Sweet Magnolias and Virgin River vibes.
My only real criticism was that the romance occasionally became a little too mushy for my personal taste. It didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment, but a few moments felt slightly over the top.
The one thing I’m still questioning is Bowen’s text/call. It felt like a loose end, and I’m curious whether it was meant to set up a future book or if it was simply included without much payoff.
Overall, this was a sweet, emotional small-town second-chance romance with lovable characters and a wonderful family dynamic, and I’m excited to continue this series.
4.5 Stars!!!!
Thank you to Kaylee Ryan for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Trying Not to Love You follows Ellison and Copeland, first loves who were separated when Copeland left their small town to join the Marines. Years later, he’s back in Magnolia Ridge, hoping for a second chance with the woman he never stopped loving.
This was my first Kaylee Ryan book, and it definitely won’t be my last.
Ellison and Copeland had incredible chemistry, and there were so many moments that had me smiling and kicking my feet. Their history together made their reunion feel emotional and heartfelt, and I really enjoyed watching them rebuild what they had lost.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was the Moran sisters. I loved their dynamic and how each sister brought something different to the story. Ellison’s protective nature really captured that classic eldest daughter energy, and it made their family relationships feel authentic.
Courtlynn completely stole the show for me. She was funny, blunt, confident, and refused to let anyone walk all over her. Every scene with her was entertaining, and I’m already looking forward to reading her story.
The supporting cast also added so much charm, making Magnolia Ridge feel like the kind of small town you’d want to visit. It gave me cozy Sweet Magnolias and Virgin River vibes.
My only real criticism was that the romance occasionally became a little too mushy for my personal taste. It didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment, but a few moments felt slightly over the top.
The one thing I’m still questioning is Bowen’s text/call. It felt like a loose end, and I’m curious whether it was meant to set up a future book or if it was simply included without much payoff.
Overall, this was a sweet, emotional small-town second-chance romance with lovable characters and a wonderful family dynamic, and I’m excited to continue this series.
July 13, 2026
4⭐️
🌶️.5
1st person POV
This book starts out with a heartbreaking tragedy, but by the end I was smiling and full of joy for the main characters.
Ellison (FMC) and Copeland (MMC) were high school sweethearts but end up not together. This book quickly shows glimpses of years of missed opportunities, heartbreak, and healing. The longing between them was palpable from the moment Copeland returned home.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the Moran sisters! Their bond, loyalty, and love for one another immediately pulled me in! I also liked how this story ends up showing both characters were not in the full right or wrong, just made poor choices throughout.
I did give this 4 ⭐️ because I wish there would’ve been more buildup in their reacquaintance part of the relationship. I felt like it was a bit too rushed, but I still overall enjoyed the whole story.
Tropes + atmosphere:
Both characters in their 30’s
Second chance romance
Small town romance
Miscommunication (not my fave trope but some of it understandable in this one)
Ex-military hero
Tragedy to HEA
Found family
If you’re looking for an emotional small town romance with second chances, this one definitely delivers.
Thank you the author for the physical arc!
🌶️.5
1st person POV
This book starts out with a heartbreaking tragedy, but by the end I was smiling and full of joy for the main characters.
Ellison (FMC) and Copeland (MMC) were high school sweethearts but end up not together. This book quickly shows glimpses of years of missed opportunities, heartbreak, and healing. The longing between them was palpable from the moment Copeland returned home.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the Moran sisters! Their bond, loyalty, and love for one another immediately pulled me in! I also liked how this story ends up showing both characters were not in the full right or wrong, just made poor choices throughout.
I did give this 4 ⭐️ because I wish there would’ve been more buildup in their reacquaintance part of the relationship. I felt like it was a bit too rushed, but I still overall enjoyed the whole story.
Tropes + atmosphere:
Both characters in their 30’s
Second chance romance
Small town romance
Miscommunication (not my fave trope but some of it understandable in this one)
Ex-military hero
Tragedy to HEA
Found family
If you’re looking for an emotional small town romance with second chances, this one definitely delivers.
Thank you the author for the physical arc!
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