Griffin I never put much stock in fate. That is, until I met Angelina Rossi. She barrelled past all of my defenses without even trying. Five years after I let her slip through my fingers, she showed up in my hometown to take over the local veterinary practice.
Now she’s back in my orbit, on the ranch that I love, and on the arm of my best friend. It’s agony—pure torture in the form of delectable curves and eyes that can bring a grown man to heel with a single glance.
When Tyler makes the biggest mistake of his life, I offer her a shoulder, but she takes my heart instead. Getting her to marry me is the easy part. Keeping her will be the greatest challenge of my life.
Angelina I thought I had everything I ever wanted within my grasp—the house, the husband, the kids, and a career that I loved. When I do turns into I can’t do this, I become an unwitting jilted bride at thirty-seven years old, watching my future turn to dust with three sentences scrawled on hotel stationery.
Enter Griffin Hayes—the best man and, as it turns out, the better man.
After a few too many margaritas, one spontaneous wedding in a Las Vegas chapel, and a positive pregnancy test, he’s bound and determined to become my everything, including father to my baby—even if it isn’t his.
Author of heartwarming small town contemporary romance, Willa is a voracious reader turned writer living in Kentucky. Originally from Canada, she's a photographer by day, and a mom of two, married to her partner for 16 years. Willa's books blend small town swoon with delicious spice, and complex characters.
Thank you to author Willa Kay and #TeamWilla for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I love this couple. A 5’11, 37 year old FMC (Angelina) and a 6’7 teddy bear of an MMC (Griffin). I love romance books of all forms, but it’s SO NICE to read a GOOD story about a couple who is over 35. Authors: romance does exist past age 25 , I PROMISE YOU.
The story follows Angie after she was jilted by her (asshole) ex-fiancé on the eve of her wedding in Vegas. Lucky for her, best man Griffin (who has been secretly in love with her for years 💞) is there to pick up the pieces. They tie the knot in a booze-filled evening in Vegas and the story follows the progression of their relationship. You do get some chapters explaining their past encounters with each other and how they ended up on separate paths.
As a hyper-independent girlie, Angie resonates a lot with me. I enjoyed how Griffin created a safe space for Angie to explore her feelings for Griffin as she navigates the breakup of her engagement and her surprise pregnancy. Griffin, the MAN YOU ARE. Tall, mature, and PATIENT, he never pushed Angie for a commitment or to speed up the progress of their relationship. He just kept SHOWING UP. CONSISTENTLY. This felt like a grown up relationship. Yes there were serious parts, but they only added to the fact that Griffin is SO THOUGHTFUL and ROMANTIC and I love the considerate acts of service he does JUST BECAUSE. I love the found family aspect, and the family group chats were so funny. Willa created a sweet bunch of folks on Whispering Oaks Ranch.
My only critique was that I wish we had spent a little more time in Vegas- those chapters were so fun (and spicy ❤️🔥). Otherwise, I loved the dual POV’s, the pacing was good and Willa knows how to write a good spicy scene 😉.
I enjoyed this series, but this book is by far the best of all of the books and a very satisfying end to the series 🩵💙. Gonna miss the Whispering Oaks Crew 🥲🫶🏽.
What’s not to love about a 6’7 cowboy with long hair who’s utterly obsessed with the woman he had a weekend fling with 5 years ago?? Griffin Hayes was utterly delightful and the perfect mix of sexy swoon dog and careful caregiver. This man goes to ALL lengths to keep Angelina after they accidentally get hitched in Vegas after Griffins best friend Tyler jilts her. Does she end up finding out she’s pregnant with said ex fiance? Yes she does… and what does Griffin do??? This man tells her he’s here for it all and wants the keep them both! He doesn’t give Angelina a moment to be unsure of him- he just shows up time and time again. Now let’s be honest, Angelina of course does have her doubts.. some miscommunication left her feeling jilted after their weekend together all those years ago and she’s deeply hurt by Tyler leaving her high and dry. But Griffin just steps up and doesn’t have any doubt that he’s not letting Angelina get away again! There’s some incredible humour throughout this, hilarious group chat messages and some great spice!
thank you to the author for giving me an arc in exchange for my honest review. from the little i heard about jess in sweet escape, i knew that reading her best friends story was going to hurt, but it was worth it. angelina is such a bright and outgoing women who somehow got stuck with a scumbag of the earth (ie tyler) because of a miscommunication between her a griffin. i just wish that we had to skip tyler!!! he’s an evil man and i wish for him to suffer all the things that he has put out into the world.
but without tyler, we wouldn’t have gotten the epic love story between angelina and griffin. i love how willa writes such amazing men. men that truly care and love their women and that is still evident in this book.
overall, an amazing read. willa always knocks it out of the park for me and this book was no different. if youre ever looking for reads about plus size fmcs, and even mmcs, willa is always the way to go. she writes her characters in such a way that they feel like real people.
I love a swoony cowboy 🤠 it’s not a surprise to me that this is a 5 star read for me, all of Willa Kay’s books are. I love plus size representation & a man who falls first 😅 10/10 recommend
Griffin is the definition of if he wanted to he would and I will hear no slander about this man. He is top tier book boyfriend material. His long standing yearning for Angelina was perfect, his selflessness to put her first was excellent, he is what we all want in a man. Angelina is wonderful, I love her stubbornness and her independence and that she found herself again. I think this book is a good reflection of growth and being able to find yourself while being with the right person. Willa, as always, did an excellent job pouring so much love into these characters and I’m so thankful to her for having me as part of her ARC team for this release. You guys NEED to read this series, and especially this book.
Trope - Vegas marriage, he falls first, ons (past), it's always been you, plus size MC's, ex-fiancé's best friend, pregnancy (not his baby), cowboy × veterinarian, found family, miscommunication (past), grief, small town, no third act break-up, HEA Bonus chapter - 1 (teaser for new book)
Thank you, Willa and team, for providing me with the ARC.
One last trip to Whispering Oak Ranch, and what a wonderful ride.
When her fiancé suddenly leaves hours before their wedding, Angelina decides to get drunk and marry Griffin Hayes, the guy she slept with five years ago but "ghosted" her. He's the guy who got away, so as soon as Griffin sees a chance to get her back, he leaves no stone unturned to keep it that way, even if it means loving and accepting a baby that isn't his.
Griffin Hayes didn't step up as a dad; he was THE dad. That man was the STANDARD; he was mature, patient, and a teddy bear in disguise. He had so much love and affection within him. The way he mended something he never broke showed what a brilliant man he was.
Griffin and Angelina were made for each other. I couldn’t have imagined a better pair than them - the understanding, care, respect and love between them was too beautiful to ignore. The yearning, tension, and admiration!! So achingly adorable.
Griffin might be a man of few words, but his actions showed everything. His love languages have to be one of the best - a little bit of everything, depending on the situation and time. I loved everything about that man.
Angelina was such an amazing FMC. I loved her loving yet headstrong personality. Her grief over Jess broke my heart, and I loved how
I loved how all the characters, including the MCs, felt like real people with problems, insecurities and vulnerability. All the problems had real solutions, which, once again, were really interesting to read. They were all so beautifully written >>>>.
Side character and plot - 1. The Hayes family's love and warmth filled my heart with joy. 2. The sibling shenanigans and group chat were absolutely fun to read. 3. The grief in the book is so well done. I often found myself teary-eyed. 4. The pregnancy trope was flawlessly executed - the love, struggle, and emotions could all be felt through the pages. 5. I loved the , which added so much fun to the story. Loved all those moments. _______________
The spice!! OMFG SMOKIN' HOT 🔥🔥🔥🔥. It never felt like just sex, but always something meaningful and filled with passion.
The only thing I wanted differently was the
Griffin and Angelina's story was so sweet, perfect and wholesome - I had so much fun reading it.
Griffin is my favourite Hayes brother, sorry, Wilder, but Griff clearly wins the race.
The ending was picture-perfect. I couldn’t have imagined a better ending to their story and this series! That epilogue? omg so good - I still can't believe this series is complete.
I'm gonna miss the Hayes family and their love. I enjoyed it thoroughly. Overall 4.75/5.
Reckless Abandon by Willa Kay Release date: 15 June 2026 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
You know those books where from the very first chapter you’re completely sucked in and on board? Well this goes one step further and grabs you by the throat (I see you, I know you’re into it 👀) in the blooming PROLOGUE!
This is a whirlwind of sexual tension, complicated feelings, hormones, stalwart familial support and throughout it all an extremely down-bad giant cowboy of a man who knows what he wants and is determined to get it.
Oh Griffin Hayes the man that you are. Griffon knows exactly where his future lies and he is not going to let the opportunity to finally be with Angelina slip by. Angelina is a tall, plus sized baddie of a veterinarian who is due to marry someone who is not worthy of her, thankfully the coward stands her up in Vegas and his best friend steps up to the altar and worships her in a way her ex could never. Sounds great already right?! Add in that this is also a second chance romance, she’s his one that got away and she’s pregnant (not his baby) and you know you are in for a tow curling, tear inducing, heart soaring fest of a book.
I loved that what happened in Vegas didn’t stay there but I also love the way both are so cautious with each other's feelings throughout and how inherently ROMANTIC this book is. Yes it’s spicy and impulsive and will keep you all thoroughly entertained but it is also full of gentle little moments, the breaths between the drama where you see two people learn how to love each other.
One of my favourite parts of this book is that you get to hear more about Jess (Jess was Angelina’s best friend who passed away pre this series starting and was married to Griffin’s eldest brother Wilder, mother to Emmy), I have always admired that throughout the series the lost beloved Jessie is never forgotten, even in Sweet Escape which shows Wilder finding love again, Jess is an important part of all of their lives and memories. This was beautifully handled throughout and the author should be proud of how emotionally intelligent her characters are.
This is the last in the Whispering Oaks Ranch series and I’m a little emotional thinking about it because this series is such a home away from home. I feel this book really brings the series to a close in a perfect way, you get to see the futures of Wilder and Liv and Callie and Jaxon unfold almost as if you’ve been invited to family dinner itself. The Hayes family is one I’d love to be part of, they all exude warmth and acceptance in a way the world could use more of. I especially love how they envelope people into the fold and prove that family goes beyond bloodlines.
You will cry. You will swoon. You will fall in love.
“I guess what happens in Vegas doesn’t always stay in Vegas. And thank f*ck for that.”
Thank you for welcoming us all to the Whisper Oaks Ranch 🖤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Thanks to the author Willa Kay and team for letting me review this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Griffin Hayes, the last unmarried Hayes brother, falls first and hard for his sister in law's best friend - Angelina Rossi. He spends the weekend with her, only for fate to drive them apart due to a simple mistake. Not a single moment goes by without him beating himself up for losing her but he thinks she doesn't want him. Angelina on the other hand has similar feelings but circumstances made her believe that Griffin ghosted her. Fate brings them together and gives them another chance which leads to a very drunken marriage in Vegas. That's where the story begins as they navigate their way towards a happily ever after.
Before I say anything else, Griffin is the ultimate example of a green flag book boyfriend. 10/10 no notes. The yearning, the tension, the flirting, the adoration, ugh! It was so achingly sweet 😭 but also the protective side of Griff was hotness itself! Besides, it was extremely cute how doting he was towards Angie's baby!
Also, I wanna be like Angelina when I grow up 😂 no fr, she was such a badass. I loved how she was written - a strong confident woman who knows her worth, but also showing fleeting moments of vulnerability that made the character relatable.
The way their relationship was built is what makes this book special imo. There were miscommunications here and there. But how they work through it to establish trust, make each other feel seen, supported and loved even while holding back the very confession about what they actually feel for one another made this what it is.
The biggest takeaway for me from this was DO NOT SETTLE!
And the spice, OH MY GOD! 🥵
I also loved that the Hayes family as a whole were actively a part of the story - how supportive they were of Angie and how swiftly everyone got onboard with the baby thing with full understanding and no questions asked. And Jess's plot was handled with so much love and care that it tugged at the heartstrings. On a lighter note, banter between the Hayes brothers is everything lmao.
*minor spoiler* The only thing I didn't like so much was the third act breakup-ish problem that was thrown in. I get that it set the stage for the grand love confession but it just wasn't believable to me that Angie would trust someone like Tyler over Griffin after everything that happened.
This could be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the full series, just makes it so much more special.
This book has such a range - from shotgun wedding to an unexpected pregnancy, found family, second chance romance, navigating grief, plus sized MCs - of which, a down bad cowboy and lots of spice.
This was a great ending to the series (but I really didn’t want the series to end lol). 4.5/5 ⭐️
• Cowboy x Veterinarian • Plus size FMC + MMC • Pregnancy trope + Not his baby • What happens in Vegas • Ex-fiancé’s best friend
Rounding up from 3.5
Overall, I really liked Angie and Griffin. I do think some scenes and connections were rushed so we didn’t get to see them develop the strong connection they have after their weekend together 5 years ago. I really would have liked to see them have those vulnerable moments to help build my connection with them as it would have made me want to root for them more.
I also wanted more of the dual timeline. There was clearly some shady things coming from Tyler’s end and it would have helped paint him as the villain even more. Now I did thoroughly dislike him, but there could have been more there. Griffin mention’s having a little bit of regret for “throwing a match on” his friendship with Tyler, but we know almost nothing about that friendship and once we find out more, Tyler doesn’t sound like a good friend. He basically went after Angie, proposed and tried to get her pregnant all to rile Griffin up. I found that conflicting for a friend… but I know we aren’t supposed to like Tyler. He seems like the type to poison his dog on purpose.
I did like Griffin, but after pining for this woman for the last 5 years to just leave her abruptly the morning after the wedding was odd to me. I would have thought there would have been more delay on his end or changing his flight to fly home with her.
I really do enjoy Willa Kay’s writing but some of the plot/actions of the characters confuse me 🤣
6 Stars. No Notes. I was completely hooked from the get. I read nearly 300 pages in one sitting. I could not put this book down!!
It was sweet, it was spicy (!!!) It was a goddamn masterpiece. And thank you Willa, for finally letting me cry Happy Tears during one of your books! If you love cinnamon roll cowboys, with an absolutely filthy streak, headstrong, Bada**, independent women. Plus size rep in both our main characters, accidental marriage, best-friends EX but she was his first, not his baby but claims them as his, and sweet small town vibes. This is 100% the book for you.
I’ve been excited for this book for so long and when I got accepted to ARC review, I was honestly so over the moon, so thank you Willa for this opportunity. To say this book is a rollercoaster would be an understatement. Angelina is so relatable, the way she claims parts of herself back after the absolute tit that is Tyler tried to mould her into a box she was never going to fit, the way she stood up for herself and knew her worth as soon as he showed his true heart. She is a powerhouse and I want to be her when I grow up And Griffin… whew *fans face* he was a breath of fresh air, he was kind, kinky and so beautifully written, where can I get me one of those? What I find so amazing about Willa’s books is that we see darker themes within our characters, we see their hardship and the way our characters work through these circumstances, not only in a healthy way, but together, to make their relationships and themselves so much healthier. But Willa manages to do all this whilst keeping the book light, with humour and characters that have us swooning. These are certified happily ever afters, that more often than not WILL make you bawl your eyes out and then kick you feet giddy at the sheer sight that is the Hayes men. I’m so sad we’re leaving Whispering Oaks Ranch, but I am so glad I got to go on this journey. Absolutely gorgeous read, 10/10 would recommend. I feel like I could yap about it until the cows come home… or Poppy!
(oh and that epilogue??? Amazing, beautiful, exactly how this series should have ended!!)
Reckless Abandon by Reckless Abandon was my first book by Willow Kay, and honestly? I’m already ready to dive into the rest of the series.
This is a small-town, second chance romance with an a grumpy sunshine pairing, a cowboy MMC, a plus size veterinarian FMC, “he falls first,” and a “not his baby” trope that somehow all blended together perfectly.
One thing Willow Kay absolutely excels at is writing plus size female main characters who genuinely love themselves. That sounds simple, but so many authors miss the mark by making self-hatred their entire personality arc. Instead, this book explores what it feels like to lose yourself inside a relationship — to slowly make yourself smaller to fit someone else’s mold — while still allowing the FMC to remain strong, powerful, and deeply lovable the entire time. Watching her rediscover herself felt incredibly relatable and honestly healing in a way I wasn’t expecting.
And Griffin??? That man was DOWN BAD. The level of obsession he had for her had me squealing, giggling, and kicking my feet for most of this book. Every scene with him on the page just worked for me.
My one criticism is that I wanted a little more emotional depth surrounding the failed relationship with the ex-fiancé. Since so much of the FMC’s healing journey stems from the trauma and emotional damage that relationship caused, I think those moments could’ve hit harder emotionally. I understood what the author was trying to convey, but I wanted just a bit more to really pull on my heartstrings and fully elevate her journey of overcoming it.
That said, this was still such a good read. Even though it’s the third or fourth book in the series and includes characters from previous books, I had no problem reading it as a standalone.
The spice? Perfect. Spicy enough to deliver, but it never overshadowed the actual story or emotional development. It enhanced the romance instead of carrying it.
Overall: ⭐️ 4/5 stars 🌶️ 3/5 chili
Note- I received an advanced copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
“I waited five years. What’s two more hours? Welcome home wife”
Griffin Hayes is a true cowboy who took one look at his brother’s wife, Jess, best friend Angelina, and was done for. The weekend they had together was truly like kismet and all the stars aligned for him. After leaving the morning after their weekend of bliss he text Angelina, and it wouldn’t deliver because she had given the wrong number.
Angelina Rossi is a bad a** woman. She takes zero s*** from anyone and is an iconic, plus size fmc, with the coolest job as a vet. Her best friend dies suddenly and in her grieving and thinking Griffin ghosted her, she goes out on a date with Tyler, Griffin’s best friend. Fast forward three years to their Vegas wedding, Angie finds a note from Tyler saying he can’t do this anymore. Instead of sobbing over him, she gets drunk, spends their joint account money on gambling and alcohol, and marries the best man. Griffin means forever no matter what it takes to show Angelina he is serious.
Griffin and Angelina were such a great couple. I loved the yearning in this book, and the never going back after the Vegas wedding. If a second chance, small town, found family, and most importantly not his baby is something that you eat up, this is the book for you.
Willa is so great at pouring her all into these characters and I am so sad to be leaving this story. Thank you for writing real people and real stories, especially for the plus size community. You will feel all the emotions, you will laugh, you will cry, and you will definitely be enchanted by sourdough daddy.
“Your ring? I chuckle darkly. It’s probably still somewhere on the Vegas strip. I f***ed it right off her finger while she was bent over the balcony railing of your honeymoon suite. Right before I slipped mine in its place.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Vibes - Griffin gets the gift that keeps on giving one night in Vegas. When he’s supposed to be there for his best friend who’s marrying the woman of griffins dreams. Only for his best friend to flee into the night to Mexico on his honeymoon alone. Angelina is at the bar drowning her sorrows when Griffin role up to be the Tall Dark and Handsome hero of the hour. Long story short Griffin end up marrying his dream girl Angelina and she gets revenge on her ex.
When they come home a beautiful romance blossoms as Griffin must fight to prove he not the same man that ghosted her 5 years ago and he’s not like his best friend who stood her up at the alter. Angelina is heartbroken over her fairytale ending gone down the tubes. Until she discovers she pregnant. Thinking this will drive off Griffin but no. Griffin is overjoyed even tho the baby’s no his! He wants it all with Angelina and the baby a happy family her fairytale.
Over the pregnancy with some sourdough daddy fun, Angelina slowly catches up to Griffin and they fall hopelessly in love and it’s a slow but steady friends to lovers approach on a fling from 5 years that gave Griffin his second chance at love with Angelina. With little highlights from all your favourite characters from book one and two. We see the Hayes family complete. And what a beautiful family it is. This is a perfect story of second chances and grief of a lost best friend that even though they’re gone they’ll be looking after you in spirit all along.
Can’t recommend this book enough, Willas writhing style is so magnetic and special it just sucks you into the story in such a beautiful and empathic way that you can’t help but love all the characters.
This was such a beautiful and emotional conclusion to the series. From the very beginning, the story pulled me in completely, balancing heartfelt moments, family dynamics, romance, and tension so well that I never wanted to put it down.
What stood out most to me was the relationship between Griffin and Angelina. Their connection felt layered and believable, built through patience, communication, and genuine care for one another. Griffin especially was impossible not to love. The way he showed up consistently, supported Angelina without pressure, and paid attention to even the smallest details made the romance incredibly satisfying to read.
Angelina’s character arc also felt very real. Her fears, insecurities, and hopes were written with so much honesty, especially when it came to family, identity, and figuring out what she truly wanted for herself. I appreciated that the book allowed her to be messy and uncertain at times while still giving her room to grow.
One of my favorite parts of this entire series has always been the Hayes family, and this book reminded me why. The sibling dynamics, group chats, traditions, and unwavering support for one another added so much warmth to the story. Even quieter moments felt meaningful because the relationships were written with so much care.
I also loved how the themes of healing, trust, motherhood, and self-worth were handled. The story acknowledged both the joy and the difficulties that can come with major life changes, which made the emotional moments land even harder.
Overall, this felt like the perfect sendoff for the series. Emotional, romantic, comforting, and full of heart. I finished it feeling completely satisfied while also not quite ready to say goodbye to these characters.
Wow!! If you love a swoony cowboy with a heart of gold who’s willing to do anything for the people he loves this one’s for you!
Griffin has been pining after Angelina for years, and after her fiancé, who also happens to be griffins best friend, leaves her before their wedding Griffin steps in and the two of them tie the knot. Promise it’s not as sly on Griffins part as it sounds! he’s determined to get the future he’s been dreaming about since the moment he laid eyes on Angie and knows exactly what he wants, So when he finds out she’s pregnant with her ex fiancés baby he doesn’t hesitate to claim them both as his and supports Angie through it all!
The way Griffin just shows up for Angie without being asked and cares so much about her and the baby is so sweet! He is so obsessed and possessive towards them but in the best way! and as all the Hayes brothers are, he is such a green flag! I love how fiercely independent Angie was but it was so nice to see her getting the love she deserved and patiently waited for after everything she went through. And I’ve got to say the sexual tension between the two of them was off the charts!
Another part I loved was how Jess, Wilders first wife and Angies best friend, was spoken about so often, it felt like we really got to know her in this book compared to the previous books and it felt very full circle!
I’ve said It before and I’ll say it again the found family in the Hayes family is the absolute best! The way they all welcomed Angie and immediately claimed her and the baby as family was so heartwarming I just love them so much! and honestly seeing all the Hayes siblings with their respective partners and children was so special, it was so nice to see their family was now pretty much complete
Honestly The absolute perfect round up to the whispering oaks ranch series I can’t recommend enough
I had every intention of reading the other Whispering Oaks Ranch novels before reading Reckless Abandon, but I also enjoy reading a series that can be a standalone, and since I ran out of time, the second option worked best for me.
And it was totally fine! Reckless Abandon is the third book of the Whispering Oaks Ranch series and follows Griffin and Angelina. And the prologue begins with their first meeting, and what a meeting it was! After spending a few nights together Griffin leaves early, sending a message to Angelina, who never receives it.
Fast forward 5 years, Griffin and Angelina are in Vegas as Angelina prepares to marry Griffin's best friend Tyler. Unfortunately (or fortunately, in this case), Tyler has a change of heart, in a way reminiscent of the Sex and the City infamous post-it note, and Griffin and Angelina elope.
Griffin Hayes then sets the standard for what all women should wait for. The yearning, the love, the care and consideration he has for Angelina is world class and when she finds out she is pregnant with Tyler's baby, the way Griffin steps up and claims both Angelina and the baby is swoonworthy.
Griffin's attentive and patient and never expects anything from Angelina physically or emotionally and add on top the plus-size representation of both the FMC and MMC characters, Reckless Abandon was a fantastic read.
This book is perfect for fans of 🤠 Cowboy x Veterinarian 🍑 Plus size FMC + MMC 🤰🏼 Pregnancy trope + Not his baby 🎲 What happens in Vegas 💍 Ex-fiancé’s best friend ⏳ Right person, wrong time 🌶️ An abundance of spice
I am very thankful to have been given the opportunity to read this ARC by Willa Kay.
Thank you to the Author Willa Kay for the ARC copy of this book on exchange for my honest review.
This book was so good. The last book in this series and I’m so grateful to have been a part of this journey from reading the first book to this last one.
Griffin and Angelina were made for each other. I love how the first chapter draws you into the whirlwind romance and basically starts off showing how they were made to be together forever. Griffin, the man that you are…. Wow I need me one of him. He was so caring and sweet and thoughtful and knew that he wanted his women from the jump. That’s a man that I would want. He was always there for Angelina and I loved that about him.
Angelina and the strong, confident woman she was. I loved everything about her. She was the bad ass doctor who didn’t take anyone’s shit and could stand her ground. She knew what she wanted from the beginning and even with her going through what she did in Vegas that just let her know that she could bounce back and evaluate her feelings for the man she was meant to be with.
The spice was great in this book. The plot was amazing. The storyline was great. The supporting characters from the other books, ugh I love the Hayes boys and their parents especially momma Hayes. And the inclusion of Jess since she was Angelina’s best friend like that was so sweet. I cried at the end of the book. I don’t want to spoil much but let’s just say this book is a great read and you’re gonna shed some tears.
I can’t wait for everyone to read it. What a perfect end to a series. I can’t wait to read more books from Willa.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I was really eager to find out what Willa had in store for us with our last Hayes sibling, so when I got the ARC I squealed.
Griffin is a big teddy bear and we have been seeing glimpses of his crush on Dr. Angelina Rossi throughout the whole series. I wanted to know what had transpired with them before, because it was clear something had.
But a little miscommunication got in the way and they lost 5 years... It broke my heart, especially since Griffin was totally enamored with her and couldn't think about anyone else. Tyler was a jealous and petty piece of shit since the beginning and no one will change my mind.
The way Jess is present in the story and how their parents are still a part of Angelina's life is precious. I cried my eyes out more than once whenever she was concerned. The fact that Angelina names her baby Jess tore me apart.
I knew that Griffin was a keeper from the get go (he's a Hayes after all), but I couldn't imagine all the ways he cared for Angelina and showed her how important and amazing she is, as a woman, as a human being and as a mother. The sourdough!! 😍😍
And Daddy Griffin is the best Griffin!! The fact that Callie and Liv are expecting at the same time as Angelina is a gift, and I loved the family chats.
I cannot wait to see what Willa brings us next, since it will for sure be memorable, as usual.
Reckless Abandon indeed! I can't explain the joy I experienced when I found out I was an arc reader for this book. Not to be sappy but Willa Kay was my first experience in not only small town romance, but also plus size rep in books and honestly she changed my life. I've read every single one of her books now and I have laughed and cryed at every single one. Griffin and Angelina was no different, I was hooked from the first word, and adored the whole journey. -What happens in Vegas! Yes please! -Not his baby!? Didn't know I needed this trope! -lactation kink!! Way sexier than I thought it would be. As soon as I saw the not his baby trope I was worried about how I'd feel, but I should have known better because these Hayes boys never dissapoint. I will warn you though, they really do get your hopes up when it comes to the male species, best to just enjoy them and then leave them in the book, because no real man could ever live up to how Willa writes a man. Not only that but an absolute kick ass plus size Fmc, every. Single. Time. Angelina was no exception, head strong and confident, as a plus size woman it's so important to read characters like this, because until recent years we didn't exist in media, Willa writes about fatness with confidence and it's one of my favorite parts of her books. Whispering oaks has been amazing and I can't wait for Willow valley!
Arc read. This is the last book in the Whispering Oaks Ridge series. I have loved every book in this series and this book was no different. We follow Griffin and Angelina in this book. It starts in Vegas when Angelina is meant to get married to Tyler Griffin best friend. Angelina ends up being jilted. Angelina and Griffin end up getting drunk and ends up married. We get to see these two navigate being married when they have had feelings for each other when the first met six years ago. Griffin needs to prove he is all in as Angelina has trust issues after what happened with Tyler. Than she ends up finding out she is pregnant with Tyler's baby and Griffin shows up for Angelina and the baby. I love the found family in this series. I adored the group chat names as well. It was an amazing book to end a fantastic series.
Tropes - Marriage in Vegas - Surprised Pregnancy - Not his baby - Plus sized rep - Found Family
“You really want to pretend we’re in this for the long haul?” “Who’s pretending? I said ‘til death do us part, Angel. If that’s not long haul, I don’t know what is. But if you want a do-over, I’ll promise ‘til death do us part and into the next life, too.” "My wife is going to ruin me."
Advanced reader copy review of Reckless Abandon by Willa Kay 🌟🌟🌟.5 – I really liked it 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 – explicit and plentiful.
After a one-weekend-stand several years ago, Angelina and Griffin reconnect in Las Vegas. She was supposed to be getting married. He was supposed to be the best man. They get drunk together in Vegas and get married!
I love/hate how much of a dick Tyler (Angelina’s ex-fiancé) was. At every opportunity he had, he tried to tear Angelina and Griffin apart. However, each time it only brought them closer together. It was so enjoyable to read about a couple who talked about issues, instead of stewing and breaking up.
I adored the quiet moments of grief that Angelina dealt with. Jessie’s insight into how well-matched Angelina and Griffin would be.
The storyline was so wholesome, sweet, and raunchy too. Logical enough for a romance (if that matters to you)!
I sped through this in a few days and was left only with good feels.
Disclaimer: I was not incentivised to read or review. Thank you to Willa Kay (via BookFunnel) for the ARC.
Try this if you love: * cowboys * big men + big women * no third act break up * pregnancy * accidental? marriage * ex’s best friend * best friend’s brother-in-law
Oh my good! This book had me in ALL OF MY FEELS. I don’t think I’ve felt so many emotions all at the same time but I loved it. I wanted to cry with her, I wanted to fight with him. I felt like I was a side character watching it all unfold realtime. Great Read.
Angelina, her disgusting fiancée the day before her wedding. She finds the best man, the man she’s crushed on and avoided like the plague after a 1 night stand 5 yrs prior and ghosted her.
Griffin, the best man, the man who’s loved Angelina silently through it all. Watched her fall in love with his best friend, even though he told him not to chase her.
Finding her at the bar and finding out his best friend left her, they decide to party it up, one night leads to a drunken wedding in Vegas. But he’s not willing to let her go. He makes it his mission to prove he’s going to be everything and anything she’d ever want and need. While she, guarding her heart and healing her soul while grieving the loss of her best friend. Thinking that a family, and love is not in the cards for her - she holds Griff at arms length.
But he shows up, day in and day out. Till she finds out she’s pregnant. That solidifies Griff’s love, Angel and their Tator Tot are his WORLD. He just has to make Angel see it 💜💜
4.5 Stars Willa that was a way to kick off the story perfectly. If you thought it was going to be a slow build….you clearly haven’t read enough Willa Kay books. We don’t do anything by halves here. Straight from the get go I was obsessed with our couple. Griffin you sexy sexy man! Where are the red flags? Oh that’s right there is literally none! This man could burn down the whole world and I would gladly let him. I’m just saying a man that learns to bake sourdough bread because his pregnant wife is having cravings…I mean literally could do no wrong. Griffin you set the bar for all men and they will never live up to it. Angelina is my spirit character. I adore her. Through every struggle, every thought, every concern Angelina is a girls girl and one that I would wish to have in my corner. She has such a good heart but honestly after all she endures it is no wonder she protects it. I am usually not the audience for a “not his baby” trope because it can get really messy really quick, but I knew Willa would handle this trope perfectly. If anyone was going to write this trope and make it work for me…well we just knew it would be this. I devoured this book in less than 24 hours and enjoyed every second of it. The ending also just hit me straight in the feels. Gosh I cannot believe this is the end of Whispering Oaks Ranch, I will miss it and want to come back and relive it all over again. My small town, with my beautiful curvy women and incredible cowboys.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
ARC Review: Thank you to Willa Kay for sending me an advanced copy of Reckless Abandon to read and review.
I want to start by saying that Reckless Abandon was the perfect book to wrap up the Whispering Oaks series. Everything really comes full circle with this book. This book was absolute perfection, and I can’t say enough good things about it.
If you love the Not His Baby trope, then this is the book for you. Also, who doesn’t love a Vegas wedding? Griffin Hayes is absolute perfection. He tries different sourdough recipes until he finds the perfect one to satisfy her pregnancy craving. He’s protective and very much a “if he wanted to, he would” kind of man. He’s like 6’7 of long-haired absolute perfection.
I really enjoyed Angelina’s character. She’s strong-willed. She’s the town veterinarian, and she and Griffin have a history that I loved delving into. The group chats between the characters are absolutely hilarious! I love how Callie and Olivia immediately bring Angelina into the fold without batting an eye.
When I say “I ate this up”, I mean that I devoured this SO quickly that a reread was essential to process what I’d just read 🙈😂
What can I say about our final trip to Whispering Oaks Ranch? Each book/couple/story has been perfection - Griffin and Angelina’s story is no different. I was hooked from the prologue and adored their whole journey.
Griffin has zero red flags and is one hot, hot cowboy, setting the bar for all men (real AND fictional). 🌻 The Best Man who’s been pining for five years 🌻 He worships her ❤️🔥 🌻 Claims her baby as his own - he is all in! 🌻 “My Wife” 🌻 He bakes 24 sourdough loaves trying to find the perfect recipe for Angelina’s cravings.
Angelina’s character arc felt authentically real… Not only do we see her as a headstrong, confident, baddie 💪🏻 we also see her conquer her fears and insecurities: 🌻 Being jilted (nearly) at the alter 🌻 Traversing her conflicting feelings and attraction to Griffin 🌻 Unexpected pregnancy complicated with ex-finance/biological father 🌻 Learning to trust that she has a whole support network that are 100% Team Angelina and she doesn’t have to do everything solo
As usual, the Hayes family are absolutely GOLDEN and I wish I could pull up a chair to their family meals. I’d also LOVE to be BFFs with Callie and Liv - their group chat was 👌🏻🥰
Whilst you could read this as a standalone, I wholeheartedly recommend you read the whole series 🔥 I defy you NOT to love all of the Hayes men and their extended/found families.
A huge THANK YOU to Willa and her team for allowing me an ARC copy!
First of all, thank you for this ARC. Rest assured that all opinions are my own.
I enjoyed reading Reckless Abandon because it was both emotional and heartwarming. The story between Griffin and Angelina felt realistic, and I liked how their relationship slowly developed as they faced different challenges together. Their connection made me want to keep reading and see how their story would end.
My favorite part of the book was the characters. Griffin stood out to me because he was caring, dependable, and supportive. Angelina was also easy to relate to because she struggled with trust and learning to accept love. I also liked the ranch and small-town setting because it made the story feel warm and comforting.
I think Willa Kay balanced romance, humor, and emotional moments really well. The book was not just about romance, it also explored themes like healing, family, and self-worth. Overall, I found Reckless Abandon to be a sweet and enjoyable read, especially for readers who like small-town romance stories.
Just wow! I love everything Willa writes. I laughed, cried and got angry.
Griffin is introduced to Angel by his brother’s wife. Jess always wanted Griffin and Angelina to be together. Angelina and Griffin had one hot night together. He knew the minute he met her, she was his forever. However, she put her number in his phone wrong and he thought she gave him a wrong number on purpose. And she thought he ghosted her.
Fast forward five years. She’s marrying Griffin’s best friend in Vegas. He leaves her before the alter. By a dang note! I wanted to find Tyler and slap him around. Deep down she knew she wasn’t in love with him but she thought he would give her that perfect marriage and family. Griffin and Angel get drunk and you know what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. 😆
Boy she gives him a run for his money. She wants an annulment he just looks at those papers. Not happening! Doesn’t sign them. He knows he wants to be her husband forever. He has to prove himself to her. And boy does he. This book is worth every second you spend reading it.
I'm so sad to see this series end but wow what a book to end it! In this third book we follow the story of Griffin Hayes and Angelina Rossi from their beginning and how they eventually come together 🥰 From the very start of the book you're pulled into their story and what a spicy prologue you start with 😏 Angelina begins as a strong woman and due to a waste of a boyfriend becomes more of a shell of herself and I love that as time goes on she finds her old self again with the help of her friends and Griffin. Griffin, you green flag of a man 💚 this is a man who stand by his woman no matter what gets thrown their way and does everything in his power to lift her up and be the best partner/baby-daddy 🤩 I felt a whole range of emotions throughout this from joy to heartbreak to anger and so many scenes that had me blushing 🥵 If you're a fan of second-chance, small town romance with an accidental marriage and a whole supportive family then I beg you to read this! 💕
I received Reckless Abandon as an ARC from Willa in exchange for my honest opinions.
Reckless Abandon is the third and final book in the Whispering Oaks Ranch series. All three books are interconnected standalones and can be read in any order, but I totally recommend reading them in order for everything to make the most sense.
I have read all of Willa’s books, and I can honestly say that her writing just gets better with each book, and this is the case with Reckless Abandon! I devoured this book in less than a day because I was so excited for Griffin and Angelina’s story. Willa didn’t disappoint. I absolutely loved how we got a glimpse into life once Angelina had the baby, and the epilogue was chef’s kiss. Am I sad that this book was the final Hayes family book? Absolutely, but Willa did an amazing job of ending the series in Reckless Abandon. I’m content with how it ended, and I don’t feel like I need more. I saw the Easter eggs for Before We Break and am super jazzed for that!!