What do you think?
Rate this book
When Hearts Collide
312 pages, Paperback
Published March 10, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 27, 2026
I’m gonna be honest, I really didn’t like any part of this book. The emotion I felt the most while reading was frustration, not happiness.
To start with the overall feel, the timeline didn’t flow well. I felt like I was reading a lot of pointless chapters, and while I understand it was so that the characters could “grow”, I didn’t feel that.
It’s not very often I strongly dislike MCs, but I reaaaallllyyyyy didn’t like Harlen. By the end of this whole thing, I don’t know how old she is, but she’s got some serious things to work on. Harlen was still so invested in Chloe even though they will never be together again and it killed the story. It seemed like I was reading more about Harlen and Chloe instead of Annie.
Harlen DRAGGED Annie along and it was SO unfair to her. Then Annie turns around and annoys me because she keeps chasing Harlen when Harlen had been so MIA and wishy washy, I wish Annie loved herself more to leave it be and let Harlen be.
Another thing was I felt like the secret Annie kept would’ve had a bit more lasting issues, but Harlen got over it like it was absolutely nothing and the information felt pointless but it was built up to seem like it would’ve caused issues.
Here’s some other things that I wrote down while reading:
-Harlen says Annie’s name way too much it doesn’t flow well
-The obvious favoritism from Harlen’s mom. Just leaves a bad taste in my mouth, there shouldn’t be a favorite child
-An SD card isn’t a disc (I’m not sure why this bothered me so much)
-It was stated Harlen’s brother wasn’t part of the family business but then suddenly she calls him about taking time off, made no sense
-Thought Annie was 35 but then read something about her being in her 50s so I have no clue now
Honestly, I forced myself to finish this book just so I could write a review, and that alone says enough.
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes for the ARC.
To start with the overall feel, the timeline didn’t flow well. I felt like I was reading a lot of pointless chapters, and while I understand it was so that the characters could “grow”, I didn’t feel that.
It’s not very often I strongly dislike MCs, but I reaaaallllyyyyy didn’t like Harlen. By the end of this whole thing, I don’t know how old she is, but she’s got some serious things to work on. Harlen was still so invested in Chloe even though they will never be together again and it killed the story. It seemed like I was reading more about Harlen and Chloe instead of Annie.
Harlen DRAGGED Annie along and it was SO unfair to her. Then Annie turns around and annoys me because she keeps chasing Harlen when Harlen had been so MIA and wishy washy, I wish Annie loved herself more to leave it be and let Harlen be.
Another thing was I felt like the secret Annie kept would’ve had a bit more lasting issues, but Harlen got over it like it was absolutely nothing and the information felt pointless but it was built up to seem like it would’ve caused issues.
Here’s some other things that I wrote down while reading:
-Harlen says Annie’s name way too much it doesn’t flow well
-The obvious favoritism from Harlen’s mom. Just leaves a bad taste in my mouth, there shouldn’t be a favorite child
-An SD card isn’t a disc (I’m not sure why this bothered me so much)
-It was stated Harlen’s brother wasn’t part of the family business but then suddenly she calls him about taking time off, made no sense
-Thought Annie was 35 but then read something about her being in her 50s so I have no clue now
Honestly, I forced myself to finish this book just so I could write a review, and that alone says enough.
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes for the ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Not going to lie, as soon as one of the first scenes with Harlen in the hospital, I guessed what Annie’s secret was. Full disclosure, I peaked ahead to see if I was right. I’m not sure how I feel about the fact that I guessed it so easily. It was soon proven to not matter because I was drawn into the story and the chemistry between Harlen and Annie, along with the both of their yearning and fears.
I was so surprised when Annie talked about just entering her fifties. I couldn’t tell and not in an immature way, in a “I relate to her as a 30 year old” way. That’s probably a bit of my ageism showing thinking I couldn’t relate to a 50 year old. But the way the author writes both characters, honestly age doesn’t matter. We never find out how old Harlen is and that bothers me. Annie even mentions not knowing her age and wondering if she still wanted kids. I feel like this was a loose end that wasn’t tied up.
I would’ve liked to see more of them together. Most of the book was them playing this game of making up and then Harlem ghosting Annie.Once they did get together, there were sweet moments but I wanted more.
The author did an amazing job at the autism representation in my opinion. It was refreshing to see. I also liked the way the author depicted grief. I found myself getting mad at Harlen’s family and friends for telling her to move on so often. Grief is complicated, especially when the person is still technically alive.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, I just wanted more. And maybe a little less of the back and forth. After the fourth or fifth time Harlem did the same thing to Annie, it was getting old. Realistic? Probably, but I’m not about to give you chance after chance when you prove to do the same thing. I also felt like the book just ended. I think an epilogue wouldve been beneficial.
Not going to lie, as soon as one of the first scenes with Harlen in the hospital, I guessed what Annie’s secret was. Full disclosure, I peaked ahead to see if I was right. I’m not sure how I feel about the fact that I guessed it so easily. It was soon proven to not matter because I was drawn into the story and the chemistry between Harlen and Annie, along with the both of their yearning and fears.
I was so surprised when Annie talked about just entering her fifties. I couldn’t tell and not in an immature way, in a “I relate to her as a 30 year old” way. That’s probably a bit of my ageism showing thinking I couldn’t relate to a 50 year old. But the way the author writes both characters, honestly age doesn’t matter. We never find out how old Harlen is and that bothers me. Annie even mentions not knowing her age and wondering if she still wanted kids. I feel like this was a loose end that wasn’t tied up.
I would’ve liked to see more of them together. Most of the book was them playing this game of making up and then Harlem ghosting Annie.Once they did get together, there were sweet moments but I wanted more.
The author did an amazing job at the autism representation in my opinion. It was refreshing to see. I also liked the way the author depicted grief. I found myself getting mad at Harlen’s family and friends for telling her to move on so often. Grief is complicated, especially when the person is still technically alive.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, I just wanted more. And maybe a little less of the back and forth. After the fourth or fifth time Harlem did the same thing to Annie, it was getting old. Realistic? Probably, but I’m not about to give you chance after chance when you prove to do the same thing. I also felt like the book just ended. I think an epilogue wouldve been beneficial.
Did Not Finish
March 15, 2026Thank you to Netgalley for providing us with an ARC.
DNFd at 11%. Unfortunately I couldn’t really get into this book. As a person with autism I always appreciate representation but there was so much drawn out over explanations that didn’t always seem necessary. I feel like I was reading a fact book about autism instead of a romance novel.
I decided to look through some other people’s reviews and a lot of my feelings towards the book were shared so I just wasn’t very interested in continuing.
DNFd at 11%. Unfortunately I couldn’t really get into this book. As a person with autism I always appreciate representation but there was so much drawn out over explanations that didn’t always seem necessary. I feel like I was reading a fact book about autism instead of a romance novel.
I decided to look through some other people’s reviews and a lot of my feelings towards the book were shared so I just wasn’t very interested in continuing.
March 10, 2026
Interesting insight in to autism but does veer into telling rather than showing.
Total plot shock! I’m now sitting up a bit straighter, preparing to be fully engaged!
I’m getting a wee bit confused with point of view and who’s speaking in some sentences. Which is odd because they seem quite distinct personalities so should have distinct voices.
I get the whole, third date will have intimacy scheduled in, but it does seem a bit out of character for the person suggesting it.
Personal choice but a lot of the words in the conversation during the first intimate scene pulled me out the scene. Unfortunately it was the same in every intimate scene.
Age was not, to me, memorably mentioned so much so that after the intimate scene reading one main was in her fifties shocked me. I am not actually sure what age the other main was.
Total plot shock! I’m now sitting up a bit straighter, preparing to be fully engaged!
I’m getting a wee bit confused with point of view and who’s speaking in some sentences. Which is odd because they seem quite distinct personalities so should have distinct voices.
I get the whole, third date will have intimacy scheduled in, but it does seem a bit out of character for the person suggesting it.
Personal choice but a lot of the words in the conversation during the first intimate scene pulled me out the scene. Unfortunately it was the same in every intimate scene.
Age was not, to me, memorably mentioned so much so that after the intimate scene reading one main was in her fifties shocked me. I am not actually sure what age the other main was.
March 12, 2026
I received an ARC of When Hearts Collide thanks to the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The complexity of the events and relationships was excellent and surprisingly easy to follow. The writing was excellent. I also the representation in the characters and the growth that they go through. I definitely recommend this!
The complexity of the events and relationships was excellent and surprisingly easy to follow. The writing was excellent. I also the representation in the characters and the growth that they go through. I definitely recommend this!
April 23, 2026
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bold Strokes Books and author Renee Roman for this ARC opportunity. I am happy to share my honest review.
I am a fan of Renee Roman and thoroughly enjoyed her last book, Stranger in the Sand, so I was excited to get my hands on her latest book. I found When Hearts Collide to be a tender and emotional slow burn sapphic love story that highlights the difficulties of grief and overcoming trauma. This story is messy and tells a story of a love that doesn't come easily but is definitely worth it.
I liked that the characters in this book were flawed and dealing with real life problems that impacted their lives. Harlen is sort of barely holding it all together. She is mired in grief and emotionally anchored to a previous relationship with Chloe that ended in tragedy. Chloe’s death is a huge part of Harlens past trauma and is a deep emotional wound that makes it so hard for her to move forward. This pain and grief really shapes her behaviour and made this book more gripping and definitely pulled on my heartstrings. I know a thing or two about grief and though not in the context of a romantic partner, I know it is something that never fully lets you go…the pain lingers and pops up when you least expect it sometimes. I think that made me better understand Harlen a bit more. Annie is sweet, kind and sort of Harlan's opposite in most ways. She and Harlen meet with a crash…literally. They are involved in a little fender bender and this turns into repeated contact which turns into this lovely and unexpected chemistry between them.
The chemistry between Annie and Harlen is most certainly there and I did feel like they had something special. Although, this story was a bit of a rollercoaster ride largely due to Harlen’s grief and struggle to move on from Chloe…Annie’s secret doesn't exactly help matters. There were many tender moments and I appreciated what felt like the gradual exploration of a relationship when the participants involved are still overcoming trauma. I felt like this book does a great job in exploring how difficult it is to navigate grief and how it pops up to punch you in the gut when you least expect it. The journey between Annie and Harlen wasn't smooth or easy but neither is life. I felt like them getting to a place where they care for each other enough to fight for one another is really rewarding to read. I really enjoyed that they eventually get to a place together that is really lonely and is not just a perfect and easy resolution but rather an earned emotional connection that felt real.
I am a fan of Renee Roman and appreciate her writing style. Roman writes an emotionally weighted and character driven sapphic romance that I enjoyed. The introspection and memory fragments add a great deal to the story. I liked both Harlen and Annie individually and together. THey were both very flawed people with good intentions and I could absolutely understand that. I appreciated the dialogue and between Annie and Harlen because it was realistic and added depth to the love story
Overall, I did enjoy this book a lot. When Hearts Collide is a quiet and emotional story with so much depth. Annie and Harlen had work to do on themselves before they could really choose each other and I do feel like they tried. Life is messy and bad things happen to good people. This love story was lovely and I enjoyed the sort of realistic journey Annie and Harlen take to get to each other. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a sapphic love story with layered characters and a hopeful element. This is a messy, realistic and emotional love story that's worth the read.
I am a fan of Renee Roman and thoroughly enjoyed her last book, Stranger in the Sand, so I was excited to get my hands on her latest book. I found When Hearts Collide to be a tender and emotional slow burn sapphic love story that highlights the difficulties of grief and overcoming trauma. This story is messy and tells a story of a love that doesn't come easily but is definitely worth it.
I liked that the characters in this book were flawed and dealing with real life problems that impacted their lives. Harlen is sort of barely holding it all together. She is mired in grief and emotionally anchored to a previous relationship with Chloe that ended in tragedy. Chloe’s death is a huge part of Harlens past trauma and is a deep emotional wound that makes it so hard for her to move forward. This pain and grief really shapes her behaviour and made this book more gripping and definitely pulled on my heartstrings. I know a thing or two about grief and though not in the context of a romantic partner, I know it is something that never fully lets you go…the pain lingers and pops up when you least expect it sometimes. I think that made me better understand Harlen a bit more. Annie is sweet, kind and sort of Harlan's opposite in most ways. She and Harlen meet with a crash…literally. They are involved in a little fender bender and this turns into repeated contact which turns into this lovely and unexpected chemistry between them.
The chemistry between Annie and Harlen is most certainly there and I did feel like they had something special. Although, this story was a bit of a rollercoaster ride largely due to Harlen’s grief and struggle to move on from Chloe…Annie’s secret doesn't exactly help matters. There were many tender moments and I appreciated what felt like the gradual exploration of a relationship when the participants involved are still overcoming trauma. I felt like this book does a great job in exploring how difficult it is to navigate grief and how it pops up to punch you in the gut when you least expect it. The journey between Annie and Harlen wasn't smooth or easy but neither is life. I felt like them getting to a place where they care for each other enough to fight for one another is really rewarding to read. I really enjoyed that they eventually get to a place together that is really lonely and is not just a perfect and easy resolution but rather an earned emotional connection that felt real.
I am a fan of Renee Roman and appreciate her writing style. Roman writes an emotionally weighted and character driven sapphic romance that I enjoyed. The introspection and memory fragments add a great deal to the story. I liked both Harlen and Annie individually and together. THey were both very flawed people with good intentions and I could absolutely understand that. I appreciated the dialogue and between Annie and Harlen because it was realistic and added depth to the love story
Overall, I did enjoy this book a lot. When Hearts Collide is a quiet and emotional story with so much depth. Annie and Harlen had work to do on themselves before they could really choose each other and I do feel like they tried. Life is messy and bad things happen to good people. This love story was lovely and I enjoyed the sort of realistic journey Annie and Harlen take to get to each other. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a sapphic love story with layered characters and a hopeful element. This is a messy, realistic and emotional love story that's worth the read.
March 12, 2026
I finished this today and I’m a bit confused by the plot as this is not both women have a car crash and fall in love, it’s messy to be polite and at times felt hard work to read! I did receive this via NetGalley and Bold Stroke Books in exchange for an honest review just an FYI plus spoilers ahead.
The set up is two women, Harlan who works for her family business is unhappy in work and in life. Her long term partner basically just dumped her and then I think on the same day had a car crash where she wasn’t wearing her seat belt (really!). Annie a woman who is neurodivergent and works for a charity has a chance meeting via another car crash instantly attracted to Harlan and then we discover has a link to Harlan’s coma ex partner.
I have no idea of timeline everything either happens very quick or just drags, honestly Harlan at times I think is a bit of a dick. I get things are complicated with her coma partner but she did end thing prior to the accident and yet she has some random obligation to make sure she’s okay given that her DNR papers where not signed (is this a genuine thing in the states, where I am presuming this is set?!). I quite like the character of Annie, her straightforwardness was actually refreshing instead of making somebody with neurotypical traits weird or hard work.
Some of the writing and tone especially during some spicer scenes for me felt really cringe and forced, there is no romantic build up at all! Also how old is Harlan as she’s acting ridiculous regardless of her weird entanglement with her coma ex. The ex partners family were horrible and honestly I’m not sure the ex was that nice but I don’t feel that we see enough to understand why Harlan keeps going back to her, the excuses don’t feel valid and I don’t understand why Annie puts up with it!
The the revelation that Annie is the possible cause for Harlan’s ex to have the accident was in my opinion just unnecessary but it’s okay as in the next moment Harlan is over Annie not telling her even though she’s known for a while and over her coma ex as well so a random festive season happy ending, it was odd!
Unfortunately this wasn’t for me, this maybe others will enjoy this!
The set up is two women, Harlan who works for her family business is unhappy in work and in life. Her long term partner basically just dumped her and then I think on the same day had a car crash where she wasn’t wearing her seat belt (really!). Annie a woman who is neurodivergent and works for a charity has a chance meeting via another car crash instantly attracted to Harlan and then we discover has a link to Harlan’s coma ex partner.
I have no idea of timeline everything either happens very quick or just drags, honestly Harlan at times I think is a bit of a dick. I get things are complicated with her coma partner but she did end thing prior to the accident and yet she has some random obligation to make sure she’s okay given that her DNR papers where not signed (is this a genuine thing in the states, where I am presuming this is set?!). I quite like the character of Annie, her straightforwardness was actually refreshing instead of making somebody with neurotypical traits weird or hard work.
Some of the writing and tone especially during some spicer scenes for me felt really cringe and forced, there is no romantic build up at all! Also how old is Harlan as she’s acting ridiculous regardless of her weird entanglement with her coma ex. The ex partners family were horrible and honestly I’m not sure the ex was that nice but I don’t feel that we see enough to understand why Harlan keeps going back to her, the excuses don’t feel valid and I don’t understand why Annie puts up with it!
The the revelation that Annie is the possible cause for Harlan’s ex to have the accident was in my opinion just unnecessary but it’s okay as in the next moment Harlan is over Annie not telling her even though she’s known for a while and over her coma ex as well so a random festive season happy ending, it was odd!
Unfortunately this wasn’t for me, this maybe others will enjoy this!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an ARC version in exchange for an honest review!
When Harlan and Annie find themselves in a fender bender situation, possible sparks fly. Harlan has a bruised history when it comes to love. Annie is on the spectrum and finds it harder to connect with people. Will they be able to get through their pasts and find their way into each other’s hearts?
This book was a cute read. Annie being on the spectrum was portrayed in such a realistic way. I will say, it took me a long time to get into their story. It felt, at times, to keep repeating the same back and forth between the two characters. Certain details of the characters took a very long time to get to. We don’t find out Harlan’s age during the book and Annie’s age isn’t stated until maybe half way into the book. As a reader, I want to be able to immerse myself into these characters and I found that very hard to do with the lack of details. However, both characters became charming in their own ways.
The grief representation was a little disheartening. Not so much from Harlan’s POV, but more so her family/community surrounding her. The amount of “just give up and move on” with no care for Harlan seemed a bit cold hearted to me. The portrayal of care for Harlan and her feelings and emotions surrounding her grief was kind of lost to the simple “come on just do it” attitude.
It did become slightly repetitive reading about Harlan and Annie trying to figure their relationship out separate and not so much together. I would have loved to have more of them figuring things out with each other instead of so much back and forth.
I appreciated reading about a character with autism. This is a community not widely written about and it was a nice change of pace to be able to read about someone who struggles with daily social expectations and how they cope with that. Overall, this was a decent read and I did love the two main characters once we got them together in the book.
When Harlan and Annie find themselves in a fender bender situation, possible sparks fly. Harlan has a bruised history when it comes to love. Annie is on the spectrum and finds it harder to connect with people. Will they be able to get through their pasts and find their way into each other’s hearts?
This book was a cute read. Annie being on the spectrum was portrayed in such a realistic way. I will say, it took me a long time to get into their story. It felt, at times, to keep repeating the same back and forth between the two characters. Certain details of the characters took a very long time to get to. We don’t find out Harlan’s age during the book and Annie’s age isn’t stated until maybe half way into the book. As a reader, I want to be able to immerse myself into these characters and I found that very hard to do with the lack of details. However, both characters became charming in their own ways.
The grief representation was a little disheartening. Not so much from Harlan’s POV, but more so her family/community surrounding her. The amount of “just give up and move on” with no care for Harlan seemed a bit cold hearted to me. The portrayal of care for Harlan and her feelings and emotions surrounding her grief was kind of lost to the simple “come on just do it” attitude.
It did become slightly repetitive reading about Harlan and Annie trying to figure their relationship out separate and not so much together. I would have loved to have more of them figuring things out with each other instead of so much back and forth.
I appreciated reading about a character with autism. This is a community not widely written about and it was a nice change of pace to be able to read about someone who struggles with daily social expectations and how they cope with that. Overall, this was a decent read and I did love the two main characters once we got them together in the book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Harlen McGhee works for her family's company, Forrest Enterprises, in acquisitions. She is unhappy at work and in her personal life. Annie Duncan works the Society for Neurodiversity and is herself neurodivergent (autistic). Harlen and Annie meet when they are involved in a fender bender and then exchange phone numbers to ensure they indeed have no lasting effects of the minor incident. Harlen later invites Annie out on what both women agree is a date. The first date hits a rough patch due to an issue from Harlen's past. Then the two women don't talk for a while. A second date eventually ensues and a similar rough ending occurs as a result of Anni's actions. Again, a lack of communication happens for a period of time before a third date occurs. Meanwhile, another story line is ongoing in the background related to both Harlen and Annie's pasts that will likely also impact their future. Due to spoiler reasons, I won't comment on that portion of the story.
Through the entirety of this story there was a lack of basic communication between the two main characters, Harlen and Annie. The reader didn't find out that Annie had just entered her fifties until half-way though the book and Annie didn't even know how old Harlen was before she slept with her following their third date. That vital piece of information was never shared later in the story. In addition, there was so much back and forth and simple ghosting between Harlen and Annie early in their relationship. That coupled with their lack of basic communication, led this reader to think that they were not suited for a long-term relationship.
Another concern with this story is there seemed to be so much extraneous information and the book seemed to drag on too long. The story may have been more effective if it was more condensed and to the point.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Through the entirety of this story there was a lack of basic communication between the two main characters, Harlen and Annie. The reader didn't find out that Annie had just entered her fifties until half-way though the book and Annie didn't even know how old Harlen was before she slept with her following their third date. That vital piece of information was never shared later in the story. In addition, there was so much back and forth and simple ghosting between Harlen and Annie early in their relationship. That coupled with their lack of basic communication, led this reader to think that they were not suited for a long-term relationship.
Another concern with this story is there seemed to be so much extraneous information and the book seemed to drag on too long. The story may have been more effective if it was more condensed and to the point.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2026
Sweet!
Harlen and Annie meet when they are both involved in a minor collision with their cars. Harlen isn’t doing so well and is feeling the pressures of life, including a complicated ongoing issue with a past love after a tragedy struck. Annie is just trying to figure out who she is and what she wants, but she is hiding something and struggling with sharing it, but they get along and that’s where things get complicated.
I really enjoyed this! The whole start of the story had me nodding in agreement and really empathising with both Harlen and Annie. Annie really reminded Harlen of the love she had lost but was still clinging too, and I think that helped because it meant she understood Annie in a way that she had never really felt before. This in turn had Annie chasing a bit after Harlen because she felt seen and I think meeting Harlen really grew her confidence. She was eccentric and fun, unapologetically herself. I completely understood how that was making everything so much more difficult. Making decisions when you are overwhelmed or unsure of who you really are is such a tough place to be in.
Harlen’s story actually brought a tear to my eye. To have gone through such heartache and yet not be able to close it off and have to live with it because it wasn’t something she could ignore really struck a nerve. The position she found herself in isn’t a pleasant one, and you could sense the guilt and hesitance she was carrying even though she really didn’t need to. My heart broke for her, and I was so happy when she tried to take a chance with Annie. It was something she deserved and didn’t know she needed, I just had to hope she wouldn’t backtrack and hurt Annie, because that is also so easy to do.
Really enjoyed this. Around the more heartbreaking moments, it had some really lovely sentimental ones with lots of heart.
Harlen and Annie meet when they are both involved in a minor collision with their cars. Harlen isn’t doing so well and is feeling the pressures of life, including a complicated ongoing issue with a past love after a tragedy struck. Annie is just trying to figure out who she is and what she wants, but she is hiding something and struggling with sharing it, but they get along and that’s where things get complicated.
I really enjoyed this! The whole start of the story had me nodding in agreement and really empathising with both Harlen and Annie. Annie really reminded Harlen of the love she had lost but was still clinging too, and I think that helped because it meant she understood Annie in a way that she had never really felt before. This in turn had Annie chasing a bit after Harlen because she felt seen and I think meeting Harlen really grew her confidence. She was eccentric and fun, unapologetically herself. I completely understood how that was making everything so much more difficult. Making decisions when you are overwhelmed or unsure of who you really are is such a tough place to be in.
Harlen’s story actually brought a tear to my eye. To have gone through such heartache and yet not be able to close it off and have to live with it because it wasn’t something she could ignore really struck a nerve. The position she found herself in isn’t a pleasant one, and you could sense the guilt and hesitance she was carrying even though she really didn’t need to. My heart broke for her, and I was so happy when she tried to take a chance with Annie. It was something she deserved and didn’t know she needed, I just had to hope she wouldn’t backtrack and hurt Annie, because that is also so easy to do.
Really enjoyed this. Around the more heartbreaking moments, it had some really lovely sentimental ones with lots of heart.
March 17, 2026
Annie Duncan works at fund raising for a non profit that provides support for neurodivergent people. She herself is high functioning and on the autistic spectrum. She meets Harlen McGhee during a minor fender bender and numbers are exchanged in case of any non seen damage. Annie makes a pitch to the COO of a successful real estate company for donations to the non-profit when she meets Harlen again. It is Harlen’s grandparents company and she is employed there. The COO is Harlen’s sister. They agree to a date but things don’t go smoothly.
I don’t want to reveal too much but Harlen is dealing with moving on from past commitments and promises. And Annie is the first person that she has been interested or attracted to in a couple of years. Annie’s charm and neurodivergence are shown in how she asks directly for things and explicitly says what wants or needs. I like that in her character. The two got off to such a bumpy start I was surprised when it took an intimate turn without more build up. And Annie’s reveal, which I’d guessed, really didn’t really have an impact on the story.
I wanted more real communication between the two. I was genuinely shocked to realize late in the book that Annie was in her young fifties. What has she been doing since leaving college? She has only been with the non-profit a short time. I know nothing about her past except her relationship with parents. I would have thought she was a contemporary of Harlen, who has been working for the family business for seven years since college, putting her at maybe thirty. There is no mention of age-gap or body differences.
I wanted to like them as a couple and was happy to see where they got to after Harlen’s rocky start. I did like Maisie who is a Maine Coon. But I think I saw obstacles for the pair that weren’t part of the story. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
I don’t want to reveal too much but Harlen is dealing with moving on from past commitments and promises. And Annie is the first person that she has been interested or attracted to in a couple of years. Annie’s charm and neurodivergence are shown in how she asks directly for things and explicitly says what wants or needs. I like that in her character. The two got off to such a bumpy start I was surprised when it took an intimate turn without more build up. And Annie’s reveal, which I’d guessed, really didn’t really have an impact on the story.
I wanted more real communication between the two. I was genuinely shocked to realize late in the book that Annie was in her young fifties. What has she been doing since leaving college? She has only been with the non-profit a short time. I know nothing about her past except her relationship with parents. I would have thought she was a contemporary of Harlen, who has been working for the family business for seven years since college, putting her at maybe thirty. There is no mention of age-gap or body differences.
I wanted to like them as a couple and was happy to see where they got to after Harlen’s rocky start. I did like Maisie who is a Maine Coon. But I think I saw obstacles for the pair that weren’t part of the story. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The blurb was interesting, which is why I chose the book. The story wasn't bad, but it wasn't particularly gripping and was a bit too predictable.
Unfortunately, I have to admit that I had difficulty connecting with the two characters.
This wasn't due to their age or their choices, but rather the lack of normal communication.
Although the autism was portrayed very well, it wasn't the cause of the communication problems. Nor was the fact that Harlen is still somehow attached to Chloe. The secret, which was revealed relatively quickly, is too easy, and the way it was revealed felt strange and at the wrong time.
There's nothing wrong with the story itself.
Harlen is unhappy not only in her personal life but also with her position in the family business.
Two years after the accident and her loss, things finally start to change for her, and she meets Anni—also through an accident, a smaller one.
To me, it all seemed a bit too coincidental.
The chemistry between the two was good, but it would have been better if there hadn't been so much odd behavior beforehand.
Harlen seemed a bit too distant to me, and that was a recurring problem…
However, I would like to thank Bold Stroke Books for the ARC and, of course, Renee Roman and NetGalley.
Unfortunately, I have to admit that I had difficulty connecting with the two characters.
This wasn't due to their age or their choices, but rather the lack of normal communication.
Although the autism was portrayed very well, it wasn't the cause of the communication problems. Nor was the fact that Harlen is still somehow attached to Chloe. The secret, which was revealed relatively quickly, is too easy, and the way it was revealed felt strange and at the wrong time.
There's nothing wrong with the story itself.
Harlen is unhappy not only in her personal life but also with her position in the family business.
Two years after the accident and her loss, things finally start to change for her, and she meets Anni—also through an accident, a smaller one.
To me, it all seemed a bit too coincidental.
The chemistry between the two was good, but it would have been better if there hadn't been so much odd behavior beforehand.
Harlen seemed a bit too distant to me, and that was a recurring problem…
However, I would like to thank Bold Stroke Books for the ARC and, of course, Renee Roman and NetGalley.
Did Not Finish
March 12, 2026I decided to DNF this book at 23%, so take the following opinions with a grain of salt as I don't have a complete picture of the book.
One of the main characters has autism, which as an autistic person I appreciate the representation, however I found the narration of that character’s POV to be very expositional.
It almost read like an informational pamphlet into someone’s experience with autism with some story elements in there, rather than just reading a story about someone with autism.
Which isn’t necessarily a problem, as I do understand that having more written representations of autism to explain different facets of how an autistic life can be experienced is useful to help advance neurotypical understanding, but I was unable to get into the story and really enjoy it because of the somewhat instructional nature of it.
There were many occasions that I would read a sentence that felt completely unrelated to the conversation that was happening or the current part of the storyline, and it would just pull me out of the book and into trying to figure out where that line had come from or what it related to.
Thank you to Renee Roman, Bold Strokes Books, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book.
One of the main characters has autism, which as an autistic person I appreciate the representation, however I found the narration of that character’s POV to be very expositional.
It almost read like an informational pamphlet into someone’s experience with autism with some story elements in there, rather than just reading a story about someone with autism.
Which isn’t necessarily a problem, as I do understand that having more written representations of autism to explain different facets of how an autistic life can be experienced is useful to help advance neurotypical understanding, but I was unable to get into the story and really enjoy it because of the somewhat instructional nature of it.
There were many occasions that I would read a sentence that felt completely unrelated to the conversation that was happening or the current part of the storyline, and it would just pull me out of the book and into trying to figure out where that line had come from or what it related to.
Thank you to Renee Roman, Bold Strokes Books, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When Hearts Collide
by Renee Roman
I found it challenging to connect with the two main characters. However, the author has a very unique writing style. I spent the entire book trying to connect with these characters, but I just couldn't believe in them, and much of the story focused on Harlan and Annie struggling separately with their lives and each other.
One of the standout aspects of the book is its representation of autism, which I believe the author handled exceptionally well.
Harlan McGhee works in acquisitions for her family's company, Forrest Enterprises, while her former partner has been in a coma for two years. Annie Duncan is employed at the Society for Neurodiversity and is herself neurodivergent (autistic). Their encounter begins with a minor car accident, where they exchange phone numbers to check in on one another afterwards, setting the stage for their evolving relationship.
by Renee Roman
I found it challenging to connect with the two main characters. However, the author has a very unique writing style. I spent the entire book trying to connect with these characters, but I just couldn't believe in them, and much of the story focused on Harlan and Annie struggling separately with their lives and each other.
One of the standout aspects of the book is its representation of autism, which I believe the author handled exceptionally well.
Harlan McGhee works in acquisitions for her family's company, Forrest Enterprises, while her former partner has been in a coma for two years. Annie Duncan is employed at the Society for Neurodiversity and is herself neurodivergent (autistic). Their encounter begins with a minor car accident, where they exchange phone numbers to check in on one another afterwards, setting the stage for their evolving relationship.
March 11, 2026
This is an ARC review. Thank you for the chance to read this book.
When Hearts Collide was an interesting read overall. I really appreciated the autism representation with Annie. It felt thoughtful, and Annie was such a compelling character to follow. Harlan, who seems to be neurotypical, ended up being one of the most understanding and supportive characters. She didn’t just accept Annie for who she was, she truly loved her for it, which made their dynamic really special.
It’s a bit of a slow burn, but not one of those “nothing happens until 97%” situations. The pacing felt pretty balanced and the relationship had time to develop naturally. I also enjoyed the writing style and the mix of main and side characters, which helped round out the story nicely.
Overall, I’d recommend this if you’re looking for a romance that feels a little different from the usual formula. It’s heartfelt, character-driven, and worth picking up. 📚✨
When Hearts Collide was an interesting read overall. I really appreciated the autism representation with Annie. It felt thoughtful, and Annie was such a compelling character to follow. Harlan, who seems to be neurotypical, ended up being one of the most understanding and supportive characters. She didn’t just accept Annie for who she was, she truly loved her for it, which made their dynamic really special.
It’s a bit of a slow burn, but not one of those “nothing happens until 97%” situations. The pacing felt pretty balanced and the relationship had time to develop naturally. I also enjoyed the writing style and the mix of main and side characters, which helped round out the story nicely.
Overall, I’d recommend this if you’re looking for a romance that feels a little different from the usual formula. It’s heartfelt, character-driven, and worth picking up. 📚✨
March 10, 2026
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Harlen and Annie meet when they are involved in a fender bender they exchange information. Harlen works for her family company which is Forrest Enterprises, in acquisitions while Annie works for the Society for Neurodiversity which is also neurodivergent autistic. They agree to go on a date but it’s doesn’t go well but tries again but as times goes their relationship continues to go down because the lack of communication and then you have Chloe part which is seems to have a part in both their past. The characters have chemistry but not communicating was their main point in their relationship I like that author did well portraying autism’s and it’s wasn’t the problem overall ok read.
Harlen and Annie meet when they are involved in a fender bender they exchange information. Harlen works for her family company which is Forrest Enterprises, in acquisitions while Annie works for the Society for Neurodiversity which is also neurodivergent autistic. They agree to go on a date but it’s doesn’t go well but tries again but as times goes their relationship continues to go down because the lack of communication and then you have Chloe part which is seems to have a part in both their past. The characters have chemistry but not communicating was their main point in their relationship I like that author did well portraying autism’s and it’s wasn’t the problem overall ok read.
March 22, 2026
I really tried getting into this story but so many parts kept taking me out I eventually gave up and DNF.
Annie and Harlen meet quite unconventionally which would be intriguing if it weren't for both characters being kind of boring. There is a lot of surface talk and both have some things to deal with on their own to navigate the world and the future they see themselves in but somehow I did not feel anything of it.
Annie's portrayal of her autism is good but at some parts it was over the top for me. Annie is more than her autism. Harlen is still so devoted to Chloe I don't see how I can root for her and Annie getting together while Chloe still owns such a huge part of Harlen.
2,5 stars for me.
An ARC was given to me via Netgalley in return of an honest review.
Annie and Harlen meet quite unconventionally which would be intriguing if it weren't for both characters being kind of boring. There is a lot of surface talk and both have some things to deal with on their own to navigate the world and the future they see themselves in but somehow I did not feel anything of it.
Annie's portrayal of her autism is good but at some parts it was over the top for me. Annie is more than her autism. Harlen is still so devoted to Chloe I don't see how I can root for her and Annie getting together while Chloe still owns such a huge part of Harlen.
2,5 stars for me.
An ARC was given to me via Netgalley in return of an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book....
the style of writing took me a while to get into but once i was in it i was very invested in harlan and annie....
we first meet harlan when she at uni and meets lucy where she falls head over heels in love with her and then the story changes as life events takes over
annie we learn is a girl with special needs but she doesnt let it hold her back and she managed to a very good job despite what others through the years have done to her...
its a good read though and it was interesting to learn about autism and how to proceed with someone with it... this story covers it very well
the style of writing took me a while to get into but once i was in it i was very invested in harlan and annie....
we first meet harlan when she at uni and meets lucy where she falls head over heels in love with her and then the story changes as life events takes over
annie we learn is a girl with special needs but she doesnt let it hold her back and she managed to a very good job despite what others through the years have done to her...
its a good read though and it was interesting to learn about autism and how to proceed with someone with it... this story covers it very well
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This novel starts out with an adorable fender bender meet cute, and continues with the endearingly cute moments throughout. Though Harlen and Annie have very different personalities and life experiences, I found myself relating to both of them and rooting for the pair of them. The supporting characters were also well written and relatable. There was a good bit of emotional angst for both of the main characters, and at times I found that I either needed a break from the drama or wished I could reach through the book and give either Harlen or Annie a stern talking to. However, overall, this was an enjoyable read.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley.
Read
March 2, 2026I usually like Roman's books, and the synopsis grabbed my attention, but the story fell flat. It was predictable and didn't grab my attention. The MC's weren't that interesting. and just they irritated me with everything they did.
The only good thing was how autism was portrayed. I didn't like the story so hard to say anything nice about this book.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The only good thing was how autism was portrayed. I didn't like the story so hard to say anything nice about this book.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2026
This is a slow-burn sapphic romance that really dives deep into heavy, yet important, themes like navigating grief, finding healing, and the incredible intricacies of human connection.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews