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Wood Hollow Stories #1
This Guy
The football star, the lumberjack, and a small-town love story…
Silas
Not to sound dramatic, but I can’t decide if I’m a hot mess, a has-been…or both.
My ex’s new relationship with an A-list celebrity is putting me in the spotlight at my lowest point, and I could use a break from LA—just for a little while.
But Vermont in the middle of a blizzard? Probably not a great idea. However, the sexy lumberjack who lives next door is a sweet surprise. And so are his kids and the town.
I like this place. I could be happy here…at least till my new season begins.
Cooper
The football star is an unexpected complication—and a breath of fresh air. Silas is funny, charismatic, and cool. My kids love having a celebrity living next door. And me? I can’t remember the last time I felt quite so alive.
My steady diet of work and carpooling is fine, and sure, I’m happy enough, but with Silas around, everything feels lighter and breezier.
Yes, I’m well aware this isn’t going anywhere. Our lives are just too different.
Too bad ’cause this guy feels like the real thing.
This Guy is an MM bisexual, single dad, small-town romance featuring a football hero, a sexy lumberjack, and some neighbor-friendly shenanigans.
Silas
Not to sound dramatic, but I can’t decide if I’m a hot mess, a has-been…or both.
My ex’s new relationship with an A-list celebrity is putting me in the spotlight at my lowest point, and I could use a break from LA—just for a little while.
But Vermont in the middle of a blizzard? Probably not a great idea. However, the sexy lumberjack who lives next door is a sweet surprise. And so are his kids and the town.
I like this place. I could be happy here…at least till my new season begins.
Cooper
The football star is an unexpected complication—and a breath of fresh air. Silas is funny, charismatic, and cool. My kids love having a celebrity living next door. And me? I can’t remember the last time I felt quite so alive.
My steady diet of work and carpooling is fine, and sure, I’m happy enough, but with Silas around, everything feels lighter and breezier.
Yes, I’m well aware this isn’t going anywhere. Our lives are just too different.
Too bad ’cause this guy feels like the real thing.
This Guy is an MM bisexual, single dad, small-town romance featuring a football hero, a sexy lumberjack, and some neighbor-friendly shenanigans.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2026
About the author
Lane Hayes
110 books1,739 followersLane Hayes loves a good romance! She’s the bestselling author of the Out in College, Starting From, Better Than, A Kind Of, Right and Wrong, and Leaning Into Series! Lane loves red wine, chocolate and travel (in no particular order). All things she can find in sunny SoCal where she lives with her amazing husband in a not quite empty nest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
Did Not Finish
March 31, 2026Dnf-ing at 37%, but there was some skimming before that.
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April 24, 2026
RATING 4.5 STARS
This Guy is the first book in the Wood Hollow Stories series by Lane Hayes. This is a single dad, sports (football) romance.
Silas Anderson is thirty six years old and is a pro football player for Los Angeles. It’s his final game before his retirement. He’s playing great but the game didn’t end the way he envisioned it. He felt he went out with a less than stellar ending. He needs to get out of the city to try to figure out what’s next in his life so takes the offer of a team mate that owns a house in Wood Hollow, Vermont he isn’t using. Some small town peace and quiet is just what he needs. Except he hadn’t planned on arriving the night before a blizzard. Or getting caught in that blizzard. Or getting rescued by the hot lumberjack that lives next door.
Cooper McMurry is forty one years old. He runs the lumber mill in Wood Hollow and is single dad to two kids from a previous marriage, ages nine and eleven. The kids spend one week with him and one with their mom, shared custody. Cooper has to admit the new guy next door is easy to look at but also so obviously from the big city, with no idea how to handle a Vermont storm. Especially when he ended up rescuing him from certain hypothermia.
These two become friends first. Silas falls in love with Wood Hollow. He makes friends, enjoys walking down the street, saying hello to people he actually recognizes. He becomes close with Cooper’s kids and even closer with Cooper. Their relationship is just for the summer. But as each week passes, it becomes harder to accept that this is all just temporary.
These are two men, each at important crossroads in their lives. They find each other but just don’t know quite what to do with each other. Their time together is easy and fun and steamy. But they are living a summer dream that they are convinced they have to wake up from.
Both of these guys were so wonderful I couldn’t help but to love them from the start. I adore Lane Hayes writing. My only complaint is that even though it’s obvious to us that they are falling for each other, we don’t really get the swoony romance that I usually expect from her. As far as they are concerned, it’s a casual relationship with an expiration date. So I did miss all the I love you’s and swoony romance her books usually fill my heart with. Still, it was a sweet, fun book and had a super sweet ending.
This Guy is the first book in the Wood Hollow Stories series by Lane Hayes. This is a single dad, sports (football) romance.
Silas Anderson is thirty six years old and is a pro football player for Los Angeles. It’s his final game before his retirement. He’s playing great but the game didn’t end the way he envisioned it. He felt he went out with a less than stellar ending. He needs to get out of the city to try to figure out what’s next in his life so takes the offer of a team mate that owns a house in Wood Hollow, Vermont he isn’t using. Some small town peace and quiet is just what he needs. Except he hadn’t planned on arriving the night before a blizzard. Or getting caught in that blizzard. Or getting rescued by the hot lumberjack that lives next door.
Cooper McMurry is forty one years old. He runs the lumber mill in Wood Hollow and is single dad to two kids from a previous marriage, ages nine and eleven. The kids spend one week with him and one with their mom, shared custody. Cooper has to admit the new guy next door is easy to look at but also so obviously from the big city, with no idea how to handle a Vermont storm. Especially when he ended up rescuing him from certain hypothermia.
These two become friends first. Silas falls in love with Wood Hollow. He makes friends, enjoys walking down the street, saying hello to people he actually recognizes. He becomes close with Cooper’s kids and even closer with Cooper. Their relationship is just for the summer. But as each week passes, it becomes harder to accept that this is all just temporary.
These are two men, each at important crossroads in their lives. They find each other but just don’t know quite what to do with each other. Their time together is easy and fun and steamy. But they are living a summer dream that they are convinced they have to wake up from.
Both of these guys were so wonderful I couldn’t help but to love them from the start. I adore Lane Hayes writing. My only complaint is that even though it’s obvious to us that they are falling for each other, we don’t really get the swoony romance that I usually expect from her. As far as they are concerned, it’s a casual relationship with an expiration date. So I did miss all the I love you’s and swoony romance her books usually fill my heart with. Still, it was a sweet, fun book and had a super sweet ending.
April 26, 2026
Very cute read! I didn’t really understand the whole retiring and then not retiring if it all. And a lot of the football stuff that came with it. Other than that I totally loved this book! It had some surprising turns,and the warmth between the mc’s and also between Cooper and his children was great.
It’s not high literature (not sure if it can even be classified as literary), but it was entertaining, heartwarming and well written. The start with Silas getting hypothermia was a bit silly (I mean come on, he was warned, how dumb can you be), but it lead to a lovely start of their love story. And I also liked that the women (both the exes) in this book were real people too, and were also nice.
So: might reread, definitely recommend as a lovely beach read (since I read it at the beach, a winter read would be more accurate though).
It’s not high literature (not sure if it can even be classified as literary), but it was entertaining, heartwarming and well written. The start with Silas getting hypothermia was a bit silly (I mean come on, he was warned, how dumb can you be), but it lead to a lovely start of their love story. And I also liked that the women (both the exes) in this book were real people too, and were also nice.
So: might reread, definitely recommend as a lovely beach read (since I read it at the beach, a winter read would be more accurate though).
April 4, 2026
DNF ~26%
Started off potentially promising, but then the MCs have sex in the first 25% with zero actual build or lead up, and no particular connection or chemistry, and that just wasn't what I was interested in. Double bi is also a trope that I need authors to work harder at to sell me on, to be perfectly honest. Wasn't feeling it.
Started off potentially promising, but then the MCs have sex in the first 25% with zero actual build or lead up, and no particular connection or chemistry, and that just wasn't what I was interested in. Double bi is also a trope that I need authors to work harder at to sell me on, to be perfectly honest. Wasn't feeling it.
March 25, 2026
This was such a delightful story! This Guy is what you expect from Lane Hayes; a beautiful setting, two men who are perfect for each other, found family and a happy ending! Plus there are a host of characters just waiting for their books!
Silas was so unpretentious even though he was a professional football player who was being pushed into embracing the newfound celebrity status his ex-wife found herself in. He just wanted to figure out what to do without football and when he takes the offer of staying at his friends rental in Vermont he found way more than he could ever dream of.
Cooper is a quiet man who is living his life co-parenting his two children with his ex-wife and working his job at the mill in his hometown. He keeps his head down and doesn’t confront the hard stuff, like he may be lonely when he doesn’t have his children or why his marriage failed. When he helps his temporary neighbor in a life or death situation he has no idea his life is about to change forever.
I loved the small town and the people who lived there. There are so many other characters that I hope we get stories for. Cooper’s children were so sweet and I loved seeing Silas and them form a bond. Silas fits into the town perfectly. Him coaching flag football was so adorable.
This was a huge win for me and I just love Hayes’s books! There is a sense of just sinking into the story and knowing things will work out but still worrying along with the characters. I love this about her books.
I received an advance copy for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
Silas was so unpretentious even though he was a professional football player who was being pushed into embracing the newfound celebrity status his ex-wife found herself in. He just wanted to figure out what to do without football and when he takes the offer of staying at his friends rental in Vermont he found way more than he could ever dream of.
Cooper is a quiet man who is living his life co-parenting his two children with his ex-wife and working his job at the mill in his hometown. He keeps his head down and doesn’t confront the hard stuff, like he may be lonely when he doesn’t have his children or why his marriage failed. When he helps his temporary neighbor in a life or death situation he has no idea his life is about to change forever.
I loved the small town and the people who lived there. There are so many other characters that I hope we get stories for. Cooper’s children were so sweet and I loved seeing Silas and them form a bond. Silas fits into the town perfectly. Him coaching flag football was so adorable.
This was a huge win for me and I just love Hayes’s books! There is a sense of just sinking into the story and knowing things will work out but still worrying along with the characters. I love this about her books.
I received an advance copy for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 stars
It's been a while since I had the opportunity to read a book by this author and I'm so happy I could read this one because it was amazing! Such a heartfelt, tender, sweet, hot story that I couldn't put down and that kept me captivated until the HEA.
Silas is a newly retired football player, he's facing major changes in his professional and private life (he's divorced) and he's a bit lost about what comes next. His teammate, Val, offers him his house in Wood Hollow, an investment property in a small secluded town in Vermont. It's far away from LA and just what Silas needs.
First day in Wood Hollow and Silas almost dies of hypothermia because of a blizzard. His neighbour, Cooper, rescues him and takes care of him; they stay trapped in Cooper's house for a few days.
They're very much drawn to each other, the sexual tension grows stronger and stronger until, after Silas is better, they reach the boiling point and surrender to the attraction: they spend those few days in a blissful bubble made of sex, chats and banter without having to deal with the outside reality. At least until Silas has to go back to LA.
I actually liked very much that they had that separation. Silas and Cooper life are very different: Silas is not out as bisexual and he still doesn't know if he should accept some offers to go back to football, while Cooper has a demanding job and two children to raise. He's also stressing about the possibility of his ex wife moving away and taking the children with her.
Luckily, their paths crossed again and I adored their first meeting after that time apart: Silas didn't have any hesitation of going back into Cooper's arms and they picked up right after where they left.
During all the time they spend together, their connection grows and they learn to lean into each other to seek not only sex, but comfort and support as well. I adored how Silas became more and more fond of Wood Hollow and how the community welcomed him: Silas coaching the children flag football team was a joy to read.
I also loved so so much Silas and Cooper's kids bonding: he was so affectionate with them, they became a family the very first moment they met.
The physical scenes were hot: Cooper was deliciously commanding in bed and Silas felt safe to explore his bisexuality with him. I loved that it never was just sex for them, but that their connection ran deeper.
This start of a new series was perfect and I cannot wait to see how it will progress. There were so many amazing characters in this story and I hope the author will give them all their own HEA.
To be honest, I despised Greg, the agent, a bit: I didn't like his suggestions about Silas taking advantage of his ex wife's fame and he was way too pushy sometimes. I would have loved to see Silas put him in his place instead of caving. And I also don't understand why he considered Greg a close friend.
Anyway, I wonder if he will be the MC of one of the next books. He did ogle a certain handsome baker actually, so we'll see.
Very much recommended.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
It's been a while since I had the opportunity to read a book by this author and I'm so happy I could read this one because it was amazing! Such a heartfelt, tender, sweet, hot story that I couldn't put down and that kept me captivated until the HEA.
Silas is a newly retired football player, he's facing major changes in his professional and private life (he's divorced) and he's a bit lost about what comes next. His teammate, Val, offers him his house in Wood Hollow, an investment property in a small secluded town in Vermont. It's far away from LA and just what Silas needs.
First day in Wood Hollow and Silas almost dies of hypothermia because of a blizzard. His neighbour, Cooper, rescues him and takes care of him; they stay trapped in Cooper's house for a few days.
They're very much drawn to each other, the sexual tension grows stronger and stronger until, after Silas is better, they reach the boiling point and surrender to the attraction: they spend those few days in a blissful bubble made of sex, chats and banter without having to deal with the outside reality. At least until Silas has to go back to LA.
I actually liked very much that they had that separation. Silas and Cooper life are very different: Silas is not out as bisexual and he still doesn't know if he should accept some offers to go back to football, while Cooper has a demanding job and two children to raise. He's also stressing about the possibility of his ex wife moving away and taking the children with her.
Luckily, their paths crossed again and I adored their first meeting after that time apart: Silas didn't have any hesitation of going back into Cooper's arms and they picked up right after where they left.
During all the time they spend together, their connection grows and they learn to lean into each other to seek not only sex, but comfort and support as well. I adored how Silas became more and more fond of Wood Hollow and how the community welcomed him: Silas coaching the children flag football team was a joy to read.
I also loved so so much Silas and Cooper's kids bonding: he was so affectionate with them, they became a family the very first moment they met.
The physical scenes were hot: Cooper was deliciously commanding in bed and Silas felt safe to explore his bisexuality with him. I loved that it never was just sex for them, but that their connection ran deeper.
This start of a new series was perfect and I cannot wait to see how it will progress. There were so many amazing characters in this story and I hope the author will give them all their own HEA.
To be honest, I despised Greg, the agent, a bit: I didn't like his suggestions about Silas taking advantage of his ex wife's fame and he was way too pushy sometimes. I would have loved to see Silas put him in his place instead of caving. And I also don't understand why he considered Greg a close friend.
Anyway, I wonder if he will be the MC of one of the next books. He did ogle a certain handsome baker actually, so we'll see.
Very much recommended.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
April 9, 2026
Rating: 3.5/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Silas and Cooper
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Characters: Silas and Cooper
April 1, 2026
So I wasn't super high on this book when I started it. I thought the story was pretty disjointed and hard to get into. I especially wasn't connecting with Silas at first, before I realized it was at least partially because Silas wasn't connecting with Silas.
But then I kept reading, and something happened. I started buying into it. Frankly, I blame those damn kids, 9-12 years old is the perfect age for kids in these stories, where I don't have to wonder if a 4 year old would really say that, and I don't have to deal with teenage rebellion storylines (even if they do slap sometimes). I really liked getting to know Ivy and Chase, and getting to know other sides of Silas and Cooper when they all interacted, the story really took off for me when Silas met them. And from there, it was great. I really felt the progression of their romance and it clocked as believable to me. I don't know if it FULLY earned the climactic moment at the end, but it resonated anyway.
I can't give the book 5 stars because the stories with their exes needed some more work for me, especially Silas' ex with the movie star, and his absolute c*ckwaffle of an agent. I know the purpose of those moments was to pull Silas out of the idyllic town that I'm super excited to spend more time in, but as the reader, I think it pulled a little too hard. Still, a great start to a series, and I'm excited to see where it goes.
Thank you to GRR for a copy of the eARC, this is my honest review.
But then I kept reading, and something happened. I started buying into it. Frankly, I blame those damn kids, 9-12 years old is the perfect age for kids in these stories, where I don't have to wonder if a 4 year old would really say that, and I don't have to deal with teenage rebellion storylines (even if they do slap sometimes). I really liked getting to know Ivy and Chase, and getting to know other sides of Silas and Cooper when they all interacted, the story really took off for me when Silas met them. And from there, it was great. I really felt the progression of their romance and it clocked as believable to me. I don't know if it FULLY earned the climactic moment at the end, but it resonated anyway.
I can't give the book 5 stars because the stories with their exes needed some more work for me, especially Silas' ex with the movie star, and his absolute c*ckwaffle of an agent. I know the purpose of those moments was to pull Silas out of the idyllic town that I'm super excited to spend more time in, but as the reader, I think it pulled a little too hard. Still, a great start to a series, and I'm excited to see where it goes.
Thank you to GRR for a copy of the eARC, this is my honest review.
April 22, 2026
ALC review from the author
This is Lane Hayes’ first book in the Wood Hollow series. I loved the previous series Elmwood, it was one of my favourites, so I just knew I would love this book. I loved how the characters from Elmwood were mentioned too. The writing and the easy way the story flows is exceptional, which I have come to expect from Lane.
Nick J Russo does a phenomenal job of narrating this, bringing all the characters to life.
Arc Review
Silas Anderson has just hung up his cleats for the last time, retiring from the NFL, but is unsure what he wants to do now. His marriage has ended in divorce. His friend, Val offers him his house in Wood Hollow, Vermont for a while. Just as he arrives a snow storm closes in.
Cooper McMurry manages Rocky Mountain Mills, Wood Hollow’s logging company for Hank (Hot Shot). He finds his new neighbour interesting, but clueless in the snow.
Finding Silas walking in a snow storm and incoherent, he knows he is suffering from mild hyperthermia. The best way to get him warm is skin on skin contact and a warm fire. What could possibly happen?
This is Lane Hayes’ first book in the Wood Hollow series. I loved the previous series Elmwood, it was one of my favourites, so I just knew I would love this book. I loved how the characters from Elmwood were mentioned too. The writing and the easy way the story flows is exceptional, which I have come to expect from Lane.
Coop was such a warm hug of a character, and Silas just needs love from the right person for him.
Bring on book two.
This is Lane Hayes’ first book in the Wood Hollow series. I loved the previous series Elmwood, it was one of my favourites, so I just knew I would love this book. I loved how the characters from Elmwood were mentioned too. The writing and the easy way the story flows is exceptional, which I have come to expect from Lane.
Nick J Russo does a phenomenal job of narrating this, bringing all the characters to life.
Arc Review
Silas Anderson has just hung up his cleats for the last time, retiring from the NFL, but is unsure what he wants to do now. His marriage has ended in divorce. His friend, Val offers him his house in Wood Hollow, Vermont for a while. Just as he arrives a snow storm closes in.
Cooper McMurry manages Rocky Mountain Mills, Wood Hollow’s logging company for Hank (Hot Shot). He finds his new neighbour interesting, but clueless in the snow.
Finding Silas walking in a snow storm and incoherent, he knows he is suffering from mild hyperthermia. The best way to get him warm is skin on skin contact and a warm fire. What could possibly happen?
This is Lane Hayes’ first book in the Wood Hollow series. I loved the previous series Elmwood, it was one of my favourites, so I just knew I would love this book. I loved how the characters from Elmwood were mentioned too. The writing and the easy way the story flows is exceptional, which I have come to expect from Lane.
Coop was such a warm hug of a character, and Silas just needs love from the right person for him.
Bring on book two.
April 2, 2026
This was a fun, sweet, spicy, easy to read story! Silas, the newly retired NFL star, is feeling lost with no purpose and overwhelmed with the attention from the press. He decides a little vacation is needed to clear his mind and so he travels to small town Wood Hollow, Vermont. There he meets his neighbor, Cooper, single father and local ”lumberjack”. After nearly being caught in a blizzard, Cooper and Silas end up riding out the storm together and the attraction is almost instant.
What ensues is lots of laughs, first times, flag football with lots of science facts, and so much spice! I loved how well Lane painted the picture of this small town, where everyone knows everyone, takes care of each other, and is full of happy, loving people. I loved how they treated Silas as they would anyone else and made him feel at home.
II was refreshing to see how well Cooper and Silas communicated (for the most part) and how easily they accepted one another. I am looking forward to spending more time in Wood Hollow!
What ensues is lots of laughs, first times, flag football with lots of science facts, and so much spice! I loved how well Lane painted the picture of this small town, where everyone knows everyone, takes care of each other, and is full of happy, loving people. I loved how they treated Silas as they would anyone else and made him feel at home.
II was refreshing to see how well Cooper and Silas communicated (for the most part) and how easily they accepted one another. I am looking forward to spending more time in Wood Hollow!
March 25, 2026
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
If you’ve read Hayes’ Elmwood Stories, then you’ve heard of this tiny town, one of the four that make up the area. This is the first book in a new series, where football is the draw instead of hockey (though it’s not clear if football will be a reigning theme here). It’s not necessary to have read the first series in order to enjoy this one, but there are some familiar faces. If you enjoyed that series, you’ll like this book.
This story has all the right small town charm and two MCs who are finding their way after life changing events. This is a great start to a new series, and it fits well with the Elmwood Stories as well. If you’re a fan of small town books, with light angst and steamy relationships, then check this one out.
Read Kris’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
If you’ve read Hayes’ Elmwood Stories, then you’ve heard of this tiny town, one of the four that make up the area. This is the first book in a new series, where football is the draw instead of hockey (though it’s not clear if football will be a reigning theme here). It’s not necessary to have read the first series in order to enjoy this one, but there are some familiar faces. If you enjoyed that series, you’ll like this book.
This story has all the right small town charm and two MCs who are finding their way after life changing events. This is a great start to a new series, and it fits well with the Elmwood Stories as well. If you’re a fan of small town books, with light angst and steamy relationships, then check this one out.
Read Kris’s review in its entirety here.
Read
March 26, 2026I've read other books by this author and they ranged from fine to pretty good (possibly I just have a soft spot for the French Canadian chef) but this was Not Good. I didn't see the real connection between the characters, the dialogue was awful. I was more interested in some of the side characters so if they get the next books I might pick them up but this was a major letdown.
March 29, 2026
This was a really good first book in a new series. I love small town and single dad stories, so I was excited to read this. It definitely didn't disappoint.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
April 27, 2026
Beautiful easy listen,low angst,small town romance, there were some lines I cackled out loud,spicy scenes were top notch! I needed this book after some dark stuff I read recently. Nick J Russo never disappoints! Thanks for the ALC GayRomanceReviews
Read
May 2, 2026Not for me. A promising start but once the sexin’ kicks in at about 22% (on the day they meet) it was such a turnoff I ended up quitting shortly after @30%. Just a prude thing I guess but I don’t like crude terms to describe the sex. I want romance, not raunchy anatomy.
April 27, 2026
I think I have a cavity now
I listened to the Audiobook for this and OMG it was so sweet! Single Dad x Football star. Small town vibes. Absolutely loved this ❤️
I listened to the Audiobook for this and OMG it was so sweet! Single Dad x Football star. Small town vibes. Absolutely loved this ❤️
March 25, 2026
This Guy by Lane Hayes is the first book in her Wood Hollow Stories series. It is the story of two men who are both lonely, one facing huge changes in his life and the other who is just getting by with his kids and his job, and how they find each other in a blizzard which, over time, leads them to fall in love. Silas Anderson has just retired from his pro football career with the LA Devils. His ex-wife is now dating a big movie star, and their lives are being chronicled in the press and on social media and his name is always tacked on as the poor ex in their story. He does get along well with Alli but just wishes he could be left out of everything they do. He also doesn’t know what he is going to do next, so he is at a crossroads when his friend Vally suggests that he go to his house in Wood Hollow, Vermont, and stay as long as he needs to. He decides to take him up on it and when he arrives in a snowstorm, he gets stuck in a snowdrift. Luckily his neighbor, Cooper McMurry, hears his car and goes to his rescue. Cooper is the manager of the Wood Hollow Mill, a lumber business that is starting to make a name of itself as well as making Wood Hollow an up and coming place to live. He is super busy with his job and also has two kids, Ivy who is 11 and Chase who is 9, and they are his whole life. He is divorced and somewhat bitter over it, but he and Sarah are the best coparents, sharing the kids every other week. Cooper helps Silas get out of the snowdrift and then takes him to town to get groceries and tells him to get the taxi back to the house. But the taxi isn’t available so he decides to try to walk which is a very bad idea in a blizzard and when he almost can’t move from the cold, he phones Cooper who frantically searches for him, finds him almost frozen, and takes him back to his house to warm up. Both men like men as well as women but aren’t out, especially not Silas with his career, and when he finally warms up they kiss and then do more and the next day have some fun in the snow which leads to a hot love scene. Then Silas ventures into town and goes in the shops where everyone is friendly but he leaves to go back to California. During the next month both men keep thinking about each other until Cooper finally sends Silas a picture of the snowman they made that his kids decorated and that starts them texting back and forth. Everyone tells Silas he has another year of football in him and his agent, Ger, suggests going to Boston to get out of LA, Alli, and her boyfriend. Silas thinks about it and goes back to Wood Hollow to hibernate. Cooper is very happy and meets him at the house with a kiss and a hot love scene. He drives him into town where everyone remembers him but don’t make a big deal out of it and he is beginning to really like Wood Hollow and its inhabitants. He meets Cooper’s kids who think he are wonderful and has a great time with them and this starts a cycle of being the next door neighbor who sees them often and the lover to Cooper when they aren’t there. They get to know each other and Silas ingrains himself more with Cooper and his family and the town as he volunteers to play in and then coach their flag football team. Meanwhile both men are trying to keep their relationship a secret, but many people are guessing what is going on, including their exes. Then July comes and Silas has to leave to play football and they both think their summer fling is over, but Cooper, the kids, and Silas keep texting and showing they care. Things come to a head when Cooper and the kids attend a football game and Silas plays like a beast and when it is over they realize their true feelings for each other and their love comes through. Silas then returns to Wood Hollow and they all become a family. I really enjoyed this story. Silas is lost and depressed after retiring and very tired of being in his ex-wife’s shadow. Going to Wood Hollow was a great idea, even though it was in a blizzard. Cooper was also in a rut but loved his job and his children. Silas was a good surprise and he fit into their lives so well it was hard for both of them to say good-bye. Luckily they were finally able to figure out they loved each other and look forward to a wonderful life. Their exes, families, and friends played a big part in the story and Ivy and Chase were very important to both of them. I liked how characters from Ms. Jamison’s Elmwood hockey series also show up in this story. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about men who are at a crossroads of their lives, meet in a small town in a unique way, find what they have been looking for in each other, and fall in love.
April 17, 2026
This was a relatively low angst, low stakes story with a golden retriever pro football player and a hot small town lumberjack dad.
Silas 🏈 Cooper
Silas retires from football after a difficult year both professionally and personally: his ex wife is now dating the hottest Hollywood actor and he left his career following a tough season. He’s in the papers only because of his proximity to his ex-wifes new fame, so seeking an escape he goes to stay at his friend’s house in Vermont. While there he meets his hot lumberjack next door neighbor, Cooper.
Cooper is also divorced and raising his two kids while juggling his relationship w his ex-wife, her new husband and running the lumber mill.
Cooper comes to Silas’ rescue after he gets caught in a blizzard and they warm up together at Cooper’s house. A hot 🥵 couple of days follow. After the snow stops, Silas goes home, misses Cooper like crazy and goes back to Vermont after a couple of months for the summer.
The story is of these two men finding home with each other, while figuring out how to make it work with the rest of their lives. There’s lots of fun banter, mutual respect, and comfort vibes.
🫣 Third act separation. These two never promised each other forever or were terribly angsty about their relationship, even though both were very invested and adored the other. It’s only at the 90% mark when Silas goes to Boston to start his season that they get serious about figuring it out. The way this plays out is kind of perfect for them.
🗣️Communication - there is no big miscommunication, but it also takes a minute for Cooper to open up to Silas and share his life w him. Silas is much more open in every way about his life and feelings, which is very endearing.
👬🏽Both mature men, equally balanced, who know what they want and don’t play games. Football player (36) and lumberjack (41). Silas was portrayed as very outgoing and fun while Cooper was a bit more reserved.
🧑🧒🧒. Kids - Cooper is a very devoted and good dad - he has two kids 9, 11 and they play a good role in the story. He shares custody w his ex wife and has them every other week. They are present in the story w clear personalities and they get to know Silas and love him.
😊 Small moments - lots of small moments between the men and w Coopers kids. You can feel the friendliness of the town and get a sense of their lives together.
🫣 No OM/OW - Both have ex-wives with whom they are on friendly terms. Neither is w anyone else once they’re 1st together during the snowstorm.
🌶️Spice - This is a bit insta the way it starts. It starts early and continues throughout. It is open door but not overly graphic. Both vers.
👬🏽. MM - both bi. Silas is not ‘out’ and it causes the men to keep their relationship a secret. They re openly friends but keep their private feelings and relationship to themselves.
🏠Small town vibes; Silas coaches the local kids flag football during the summer
👥Dual POV; HEA; 18 month later epilogue; living together and engagement
❤️ Overall, a well written sweet story. I would have loved a little more depth between the two characters but I also kind of love how they were both happy just going along and enjoying each other so much in the moment. Silas just kind of little by little makes a home for himself w Cooper. And Cooper realizes how nice and comforting it is to have someone to lean on. Their ease, humor, and sense of comfort and safety w each other was lovely. The lack of angst, but w. a little tension was well done.
Favorite bits (spoilers):
- when Silas is delirious from hypothermia the first night w Cooper
- all the times they just sort of pounce on each other when they get in the door
- Silas’ declaration of love at the game near the end and how he doesn’t care about anything but being w Cooper
- the family time w Coopers kids - how the daughter loved to cook and bake and how the son loved to play catch w Silas. And how Silas always knew how to engage w them and make them feel seen.
Silas 🏈 Cooper
Silas retires from football after a difficult year both professionally and personally: his ex wife is now dating the hottest Hollywood actor and he left his career following a tough season. He’s in the papers only because of his proximity to his ex-wifes new fame, so seeking an escape he goes to stay at his friend’s house in Vermont. While there he meets his hot lumberjack next door neighbor, Cooper.
Cooper is also divorced and raising his two kids while juggling his relationship w his ex-wife, her new husband and running the lumber mill.
Cooper comes to Silas’ rescue after he gets caught in a blizzard and they warm up together at Cooper’s house. A hot 🥵 couple of days follow. After the snow stops, Silas goes home, misses Cooper like crazy and goes back to Vermont after a couple of months for the summer.
The story is of these two men finding home with each other, while figuring out how to make it work with the rest of their lives. There’s lots of fun banter, mutual respect, and comfort vibes.
🫣 Third act separation. These two never promised each other forever or were terribly angsty about their relationship, even though both were very invested and adored the other. It’s only at the 90% mark when Silas goes to Boston to start his season that they get serious about figuring it out. The way this plays out is kind of perfect for them.
🗣️Communication - there is no big miscommunication, but it also takes a minute for Cooper to open up to Silas and share his life w him. Silas is much more open in every way about his life and feelings, which is very endearing.
👬🏽Both mature men, equally balanced, who know what they want and don’t play games. Football player (36) and lumberjack (41). Silas was portrayed as very outgoing and fun while Cooper was a bit more reserved.
🧑🧒🧒. Kids - Cooper is a very devoted and good dad - he has two kids 9, 11 and they play a good role in the story. He shares custody w his ex wife and has them every other week. They are present in the story w clear personalities and they get to know Silas and love him.
😊 Small moments - lots of small moments between the men and w Coopers kids. You can feel the friendliness of the town and get a sense of their lives together.
🫣 No OM/OW - Both have ex-wives with whom they are on friendly terms. Neither is w anyone else once they’re 1st together during the snowstorm.
🌶️Spice - This is a bit insta the way it starts. It starts early and continues throughout. It is open door but not overly graphic. Both vers.
👬🏽. MM - both bi. Silas is not ‘out’ and it causes the men to keep their relationship a secret. They re openly friends but keep their private feelings and relationship to themselves.
🏠Small town vibes; Silas coaches the local kids flag football during the summer
👥Dual POV; HEA; 18 month later epilogue; living together and engagement
❤️ Overall, a well written sweet story. I would have loved a little more depth between the two characters but I also kind of love how they were both happy just going along and enjoying each other so much in the moment. Silas just kind of little by little makes a home for himself w Cooper. And Cooper realizes how nice and comforting it is to have someone to lean on. Their ease, humor, and sense of comfort and safety w each other was lovely. The lack of angst, but w. a little tension was well done.
Favorite bits (spoilers):
- when Silas is delirious from hypothermia the first night w Cooper
- all the times they just sort of pounce on each other when they get in the door
- Silas’ declaration of love at the game near the end and how he doesn’t care about anything but being w Cooper
- the family time w Coopers kids - how the daughter loved to cook and bake and how the son loved to play catch w Silas. And how Silas always knew how to engage w them and make them feel seen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2026
DNF @ 60%
Notes I took while reading:
The first 25% was fine. Nothing really special other than me thinking they both seemed way too comfortable with gay sex considering how seldom they actually had sex with other men. The pacing was fine and the tension was adequate when Silas and Cooper finally made their moves.
Timeskipping to about a month after Silas left was a little boring (but understandable) though the chapters catching us up to their individual lives were dreadfully boring. They relied too heavily on internal monolgues just telling us what they did. it was basically a second intro act (but this time we were already 30% into the book).
Really not a fan of just timelapsing Silas and Cooper's texting. That was supposed to be a big gesture considering they both were going out of their way to stay in contact. Why didn't the author write out their interactions to show us them getting closer? Isn't that like the entire point of a romance?
I called it quits when I got to 60% and realized that there'd basically been no romance. We get tons of random scenes showing Silas interacting with the townspeople + Cooper's family and tons of sex scenes between Silas and Cooper, but no real progress in their romantic journey because there wasn't a much of a journey to begin with. Sex is not a stand in for actual romance + Silas and Cooper just expo dumping to one another about ther independent problems wasn't enough because nothing connected them to the romance nor did they actually help one another with their problems because they just vented at one another then it was suddenly no longer an issue. They sort of just become FWBs and stay that way with no real conflict (and if there is eventually a conflict, it's way too late to introduce that after I've read over half the book).
My eyes literally glazed over when Silas started talking to the loggers then he started talking to Cooper's kids again because there was just nothing here. I don't want to read a boring slice of life where a guy just talks to people and passively falls into a relationship with another guy who's also passively just going through life, all the while getting small town names shotgunned at us because the author really wants us to know about the recurring characters from the other books.
TL;DR: Idk what this book wanted to be, but it ended up being so boring because it felt aimless. Silas and Cooper have independent personal problems that are completely separate from their romance AND the romance itself was boring because it was just two guys having lots of sex and passively growing closer without any proactive actions on either part. I read romances to see what people do to fall in love. To read about overcoming big conflicts and coming out the other side through the power of love. It doesn't have to be dramatic, but I need to read something more than the equivalent of watching paint dry (aka Silas and Cooper doing absolutely nothing to progress their dynamic other than talking at each other about their problems then just falling in love). 2 stars.
Notes I took while reading:
The first 25% was fine. Nothing really special other than me thinking they both seemed way too comfortable with gay sex considering how seldom they actually had sex with other men. The pacing was fine and the tension was adequate when Silas and Cooper finally made their moves.
Timeskipping to about a month after Silas left was a little boring (but understandable) though the chapters catching us up to their individual lives were dreadfully boring. They relied too heavily on internal monolgues just telling us what they did. it was basically a second intro act (but this time we were already 30% into the book).
Really not a fan of just timelapsing Silas and Cooper's texting. That was supposed to be a big gesture considering they both were going out of their way to stay in contact. Why didn't the author write out their interactions to show us them getting closer? Isn't that like the entire point of a romance?
I called it quits when I got to 60% and realized that there'd basically been no romance. We get tons of random scenes showing Silas interacting with the townspeople + Cooper's family and tons of sex scenes between Silas and Cooper, but no real progress in their romantic journey because there wasn't a much of a journey to begin with. Sex is not a stand in for actual romance + Silas and Cooper just expo dumping to one another about ther independent problems wasn't enough because nothing connected them to the romance nor did they actually help one another with their problems because they just vented at one another then it was suddenly no longer an issue. They sort of just become FWBs and stay that way with no real conflict (and if there is eventually a conflict, it's way too late to introduce that after I've read over half the book).
My eyes literally glazed over when Silas started talking to the loggers then he started talking to Cooper's kids again because there was just nothing here. I don't want to read a boring slice of life where a guy just talks to people and passively falls into a relationship with another guy who's also passively just going through life, all the while getting small town names shotgunned at us because the author really wants us to know about the recurring characters from the other books.
TL;DR: Idk what this book wanted to be, but it ended up being so boring because it felt aimless. Silas and Cooper have independent personal problems that are completely separate from their romance AND the romance itself was boring because it was just two guys having lots of sex and passively growing closer without any proactive actions on either part. I read romances to see what people do to fall in love. To read about overcoming big conflicts and coming out the other side through the power of love. It doesn't have to be dramatic, but I need to read something more than the equivalent of watching paint dry (aka Silas and Cooper doing absolutely nothing to progress their dynamic other than talking at each other about their problems then just falling in love). 2 stars.
April 6, 2026
heartwarming, a fabulous beginning for a new series
Rating: 4.5🌈
Lane Hayes has written narrative gold with her Vermont based Four Forest town’s universe, and I’m not talking maple syrup, although I won’t be surprised if this factors in eventually.
First off, there was the 6 book fabulous series, The Elmwood Stories, which was written about NHL hockey players who found themselves in the small town of Elmwood, where they found love, happiness and established a hockey base for kids and players for the summer. It built slowly but surely over 6 novels and we started meeting people outside of town, including those from Wood Hollow, and the mill.
Well, it’s Wood Hollow’s time! The town has begun its own restoration and become a great charming place to live, with the mill’s prosperity being a huge part of this.
Silas, a veteran NFL player who has come to the end of his career, is facing a difficult time in his life. Divorced, a career that has ended, and no idea how to go forward, the pressure sends him to his friend’s rental property in Wood Hollow, Vermont, for a break.
His next door neighbor is Cooper, who is a bisexual divorced father of two children, and the manager of the Wood Hollow lumber mill. Cooper is a hometown man, who loves his community and his family. And isn’t prepared for the handsome football player he rescues from a snowstorm.
This Guy is an excellent romance and start into a new series in this universe. The men are relatable, their struggles are written in a way that makes them feel real and understandable. The pressures each of them are facing, whether it’s Silas from his ex-wife’s new publicity with her own relationship or, perhaps even more realistic, Cooper’s personal struggles with his dynamics with his ex-wife and the way they both feel about their separation from their children.
Here’s what I find so well written by Hayes. There’s no demonizing of anyone’s ex’s here. Any potential for a traumatic event? It’s handled by communication, like adults, without involving the children. Thank you. Same goes for Silas and his ex wife. They remain friends and understand why they didn’t work out as marriage partners.
I know I shouldn’t have to point this out, but honestly, it’s rare enough that I see it in my stories that I point it out when I see it.
The children are beautifully animated and feel true to their ages. Adore them.
That dramatic moment? Fabulous! Heartwarming and perfect for the couple and as a family we have come to love.
I can’t wait for the next story to come out. I love this entire world that Hayes is creating!
Highly recommended!
Cover Design by Sleepy Fox Studio
Four Forest towns of Vermont Universe - see note below
The Elmwood Stories (6 book series)- I love this series ❤️ it mentions the lumber mill and introduces the Four Forest towns. It’s hockey meets Vermont small town ❤️.
Wood Hollow Series:
This Guy #1
Sweet Something #2 - TBR summer 2026
Four Forest area of Vermont are : Wood Hollow, Elmwood, Pinecrest, and Fallbrook. The Elmwood Stories ❤️ series is complete
Rating: 4.5🌈
Lane Hayes has written narrative gold with her Vermont based Four Forest town’s universe, and I’m not talking maple syrup, although I won’t be surprised if this factors in eventually.
First off, there was the 6 book fabulous series, The Elmwood Stories, which was written about NHL hockey players who found themselves in the small town of Elmwood, where they found love, happiness and established a hockey base for kids and players for the summer. It built slowly but surely over 6 novels and we started meeting people outside of town, including those from Wood Hollow, and the mill.
Well, it’s Wood Hollow’s time! The town has begun its own restoration and become a great charming place to live, with the mill’s prosperity being a huge part of this.
Silas, a veteran NFL player who has come to the end of his career, is facing a difficult time in his life. Divorced, a career that has ended, and no idea how to go forward, the pressure sends him to his friend’s rental property in Wood Hollow, Vermont, for a break.
His next door neighbor is Cooper, who is a bisexual divorced father of two children, and the manager of the Wood Hollow lumber mill. Cooper is a hometown man, who loves his community and his family. And isn’t prepared for the handsome football player he rescues from a snowstorm.
This Guy is an excellent romance and start into a new series in this universe. The men are relatable, their struggles are written in a way that makes them feel real and understandable. The pressures each of them are facing, whether it’s Silas from his ex-wife’s new publicity with her own relationship or, perhaps even more realistic, Cooper’s personal struggles with his dynamics with his ex-wife and the way they both feel about their separation from their children.
Here’s what I find so well written by Hayes. There’s no demonizing of anyone’s ex’s here. Any potential for a traumatic event? It’s handled by communication, like adults, without involving the children. Thank you. Same goes for Silas and his ex wife. They remain friends and understand why they didn’t work out as marriage partners.
I know I shouldn’t have to point this out, but honestly, it’s rare enough that I see it in my stories that I point it out when I see it.
The children are beautifully animated and feel true to their ages. Adore them.
That dramatic moment? Fabulous! Heartwarming and perfect for the couple and as a family we have come to love.
I can’t wait for the next story to come out. I love this entire world that Hayes is creating!
Highly recommended!
Cover Design by Sleepy Fox Studio
Four Forest towns of Vermont Universe - see note below
The Elmwood Stories (6 book series)- I love this series ❤️ it mentions the lumber mill and introduces the Four Forest towns. It’s hockey meets Vermont small town ❤️.
Wood Hollow Series:
This Guy #1
Sweet Something #2 - TBR summer 2026
Four Forest area of Vermont are : Wood Hollow, Elmwood, Pinecrest, and Fallbrook. The Elmwood Stories ❤️ series is complete
March 25, 2026
This Guy
By: Lane Hayes
Could it ever be real?
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
What if two people that on paper make no sense but somehow they do? Silas is on the outside of a 15 year pro football career. Cooper is a dad, a ex husband and a business owner but what starts as friendship and neighbors feels like it could be so much more.
This was my first book from this author but definitely not my last. Definitely well put together, great character development and I wanted so much more. The author writing is flawless, and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some have quick witted story lines that are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: The football star, the lumberjack, and a small-town love story…
Silas
Not to sound dramatic, but I can’t decide if I’m a hot mess, a has-been…or both.
There’s nothing quite like being in the spotlight at my lowest point. I could use a break from LA and my agent just for a little while.
But Vermont in the middle of a blizzard? Probably not a great idea. However, the sexy lumberjack who lives next door is a sweet surprise. And so are his kids and the town.
I like this place. I could be happy here…at least till my new season begins.
Cooper
My time is split between work and fatherhood. That’s it. Boss and Dad. Maybe that’s why the football star is a breath of fresh air. Silas is funny, charismatic, and cool.
My kids love having a celebrity living next door. And me? I can’t remember the last time I felt quite so alive.
Yes, I’m well aware this isn’t going anywhere. Our worlds are just too different.
Too bad, ’cause this guy feels like the real thing.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know you’re 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
By: Lane Hayes
Could it ever be real?
📚💕⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💕📚
What if two people that on paper make no sense but somehow they do? Silas is on the outside of a 15 year pro football career. Cooper is a dad, a ex husband and a business owner but what starts as friendship and neighbors feels like it could be so much more.
This was my first book from this author but definitely not my last. Definitely well put together, great character development and I wanted so much more. The author writing is flawless, and the words are so captivating, the plot had so many twists and turns and none that I was expecting, and many shockingly intimate I have become a huge fan of this author. The author writes with so much intensity and emotion pulled from each book it’s felt page after page. Some have quick witted story lines that are so perfect and lets you believe you have a front row seat. So being able to read this love story didn’t disappoint. The authors ability to have two separate individuals struggling in their everyday life and try to navigate someone else’s thoughts, needs and desires was intense and gives all the fills.
Authors Blurb: The football star, the lumberjack, and a small-town love story…
Silas
Not to sound dramatic, but I can’t decide if I’m a hot mess, a has-been…or both.
There’s nothing quite like being in the spotlight at my lowest point. I could use a break from LA and my agent just for a little while.
But Vermont in the middle of a blizzard? Probably not a great idea. However, the sexy lumberjack who lives next door is a sweet surprise. And so are his kids and the town.
I like this place. I could be happy here…at least till my new season begins.
Cooper
My time is split between work and fatherhood. That’s it. Boss and Dad. Maybe that’s why the football star is a breath of fresh air. Silas is funny, charismatic, and cool.
My kids love having a celebrity living next door. And me? I can’t remember the last time I felt quite so alive.
Yes, I’m well aware this isn’t going anywhere. Our worlds are just too different.
Too bad, ’cause this guy feels like the real thing.
This book has everything I love in a book. Then you add that it's beautifully written and believable. It is easily a five star read. Written in dual POV this story flows so incredibly well that the next thing you know you’re 80% into the book and loving every second of it. The believable way the characters interact is perfect. Run, Hop, Jump or use your (1 click) finger to do whatever you have to do and get this amazing book. It'll break your heart, you'll want to scream with frustration and it'll let you discover that love just might conquer all. The chemistry is steamy and sweet and oh so romantic.
March 29, 2026
This is my first Lane Hayes book, and honestly I had no expectations. Yet, I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. I can't remember smiling so much while reading a book! That's how an M/M RomCom starring a retired football player and logger (not a lumberjack) should be! The small town sounded heavenly and if it was real, I'd want to live there. But let's talk more about our main characters.
So, there's recently retired footballer Silas, from California. He's kind of in the middle of a PR ménage a trois with his ex-wife and her super famous actor boyfriend, much to his dismay. Despite his PR agent's insistence of using that to his advantage, he decides to take the advice from one of his former teammate+friend to stay in his house in Vermont for a little R&R.
In Vermont, there's Cooper, who's a boss man at a logging company. He's also divorced and has shared custody with his two kiddos, Chase (9 year old boy) and Ivy (11 year old girl). Cooper loves his smalltown, Woods Hollow, and despite a little stress every now and then, life couldn't get better. That is until he meets his new, temporary, neighbor Silas. You can tell they find each other attractive by their inner monologue. There's just one problem; they're both bi and in the closet. Well, Cooper kind of is.
Silas instantly falls in love with the quaint small town where everyone is in everyone's business, but it's kind of cute. During a snowstorm, Silas is stuck at the grocery store and tries to call a cab but if it wasn't for someone's nosiness, he wouldn't have known that the one cab driver is sick and unavailable. So what's an LA city boy to do with all these groceries and some snow? He decides to hoof it. Hella bad idea.
But wait! As he reaches hypothermia temperatures, he remembers he has Cooper's number and attempts to ask for help, which Coop finally understands and races out to his truck and pick him up. From there, he takes care of Silas.. bringing him to his own home *waggles eyebrows*. There's soup, fire in the fireplace, many blankets and changes of clothes. And body heat. Yes, I said what I said!
Yet, I need to stop or I'll spill all the tea and ruin it for any potential readers. Definitely check out the book, it was really well written and made me want to believe that in the crazy world we live in now, there are more Coopers and Silas' who fight through their own snowstorm to find their perfect someone.
Special thanks to Gay Romance Review for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
So, there's recently retired footballer Silas, from California. He's kind of in the middle of a PR ménage a trois with his ex-wife and her super famous actor boyfriend, much to his dismay. Despite his PR agent's insistence of using that to his advantage, he decides to take the advice from one of his former teammate+friend to stay in his house in Vermont for a little R&R.
In Vermont, there's Cooper, who's a boss man at a logging company. He's also divorced and has shared custody with his two kiddos, Chase (9 year old boy) and Ivy (11 year old girl). Cooper loves his smalltown, Woods Hollow, and despite a little stress every now and then, life couldn't get better. That is until he meets his new, temporary, neighbor Silas. You can tell they find each other attractive by their inner monologue. There's just one problem; they're both bi and in the closet. Well, Cooper kind of is.
Silas instantly falls in love with the quaint small town where everyone is in everyone's business, but it's kind of cute. During a snowstorm, Silas is stuck at the grocery store and tries to call a cab but if it wasn't for someone's nosiness, he wouldn't have known that the one cab driver is sick and unavailable. So what's an LA city boy to do with all these groceries and some snow? He decides to hoof it. Hella bad idea.
But wait! As he reaches hypothermia temperatures, he remembers he has Cooper's number and attempts to ask for help, which Coop finally understands and races out to his truck and pick him up. From there, he takes care of Silas.. bringing him to his own home *waggles eyebrows*. There's soup, fire in the fireplace, many blankets and changes of clothes. And body heat. Yes, I said what I said!
Yet, I need to stop or I'll spill all the tea and ruin it for any potential readers. Definitely check out the book, it was really well written and made me want to believe that in the crazy world we live in now, there are more Coopers and Silas' who fight through their own snowstorm to find their perfect someone.
Special thanks to Gay Romance Review for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
May 20, 2026
M/M
Football player
Single father of 2, a litteral lumberjack
Next door neighbors
Small town Vermont
Close proximity/snowed in/one bed
Temporary vacation
Both bi but not out
Arc audio review
Story = 5 stars
Narration = 5 stars
Books about a single father from a divorce are not my favorite. I prefer when there's no other parent. Right from the start I did not like the kids mother and her mind games. That could have had the potential to ruin my enjoyment of the story but it didn't get too bad and I absolutely loved story other than that from start to finish. It was a light, angst light story with some steamy scenes. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and listened to it all in one day. I also had a good chuckle a few times.
I enjoyed both of the main characters. Silas is facing retirement after 15 years of football. He is feeling old but is also only 36. He has no idea what to do outside of football. At the same time his ex wife is in the daily news flaunting her relationship with the man she left him for and he wants to hide. I felt bad for him. He had a humorous almost kiddish personality and I found him very loveable, especially when he was interacting with the children. He is gay but has had very limited male interaction due to being in the closet for his job. Cooper is a "lumberjack" but in the modern definition. He is divorced and loves having his 2 kids with him. He is protective with everyone in his life, including his new next door neighbor who is ill prepared for the winter weather and it was very endearing.
They made a great couple. It was cute listening to them become first friends and gradually fall for each other. The relationship itself was slow burn and at a good pace. They do get steamy basically from the point they say hello and some might think thats too fast but I can understand how 2 bi hot guys who haven't had any other available option before would jump on the offer without knowing anything about each other yet. It was obvious from that start that they had chemistry they couldn't resist.
I love this little town and the towns people. I'm super curious about the guy with his nurse and the cute barrista. Looking forward to reading the next book.
The ending was so cute, very reminiscent of Kipp and Scott (iykyk).
The narration was fantastic. He has a pleasant reading voice and kept a good pace/flow. He expressed all the emotions wonderfully and brought the story to life. He gave all the characters including the side characters their own distinct voice that suited them all perfectly and made it easy to follow the story.
Football player
Single father of 2, a litteral lumberjack
Next door neighbors
Small town Vermont
Close proximity/snowed in/one bed
Temporary vacation
Both bi but not out
Arc audio review
Story = 5 stars
Narration = 5 stars
Books about a single father from a divorce are not my favorite. I prefer when there's no other parent. Right from the start I did not like the kids mother and her mind games. That could have had the potential to ruin my enjoyment of the story but it didn't get too bad and I absolutely loved story other than that from start to finish. It was a light, angst light story with some steamy scenes. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and listened to it all in one day. I also had a good chuckle a few times.
I enjoyed both of the main characters. Silas is facing retirement after 15 years of football. He is feeling old but is also only 36. He has no idea what to do outside of football. At the same time his ex wife is in the daily news flaunting her relationship with the man she left him for and he wants to hide. I felt bad for him. He had a humorous almost kiddish personality and I found him very loveable, especially when he was interacting with the children. He is gay but has had very limited male interaction due to being in the closet for his job. Cooper is a "lumberjack" but in the modern definition. He is divorced and loves having his 2 kids with him. He is protective with everyone in his life, including his new next door neighbor who is ill prepared for the winter weather and it was very endearing.
They made a great couple. It was cute listening to them become first friends and gradually fall for each other. The relationship itself was slow burn and at a good pace. They do get steamy basically from the point they say hello and some might think thats too fast but I can understand how 2 bi hot guys who haven't had any other available option before would jump on the offer without knowing anything about each other yet. It was obvious from that start that they had chemistry they couldn't resist.
I love this little town and the towns people. I'm super curious about the guy with his nurse and the cute barrista. Looking forward to reading the next book.
The ending was so cute, very reminiscent of Kipp and Scott (iykyk).
The narration was fantastic. He has a pleasant reading voice and kept a good pace/flow. He expressed all the emotions wonderfully and brought the story to life. He gave all the characters including the side characters their own distinct voice that suited them all perfectly and made it easy to follow the story.
April 24, 2026
5 ⭐️ (and maybe more)
Story 5*
Narrator 4.5*
This audiobook completely caught me off guard… in the best way.
This was actually my first audiobook in a foreign language, and I had my doubts at the beginning. It took me a couple of chapters to adjust to the narration and to stop focusing so much on the voice itself. But once I let go and just allowed myself to feel the story, everything clicked — and I was in.
Nick J. Russo’s narration really fits this story. It’s not overly dramatic or exaggerated, but that actually makes everything feel more real. His voice is very pleasant to listen to, and it works well even in the scenes with kids, which I loved. The emotions land naturally, and yes… even the sexy scenes are very hot 👀
I was hooked from the very beginning. The setup alone — a city guy from LA ending up in a tiny middle-of-nowhere town during a full-on winter snowstorm — was just so good. I was actually laughing out loud at the start, which doesn’t happen that often.
What I really liked is that these aren’t inexperienced kids. They’re older, they’ve been through things, and you can really feel that maturity in the way their relationship develops. I especially appreciated the way Silas, with Cooper’s support, openly and honestly explores his bisexual side — it made the whole story feel much more believable and real.
And the family aspect… I absolutely loved that part. The moments with Cooper’s kids, the sense of warmth and belonging — it just hit me in the best way.
I also have a soft spot for the way Lane Hayes builds these small-town communities. Yes, it can be a little cheesy, maybe even a bit idealized, but honestly? I love it. I love the side characters, the little glimpses into other stories, that feeling that life continues beyond the main couple.
The chemistry between the main characters was honestly insane. I laughed out loud, had tears in my eyes during the more emotional moments, and I was genuinely moved during their coming out. And yes… I’m not even going to pretend — the intimate scenes gave me actual shivers and goosebumps 🔥
Story 5*
Narrator 4.5*
This audiobook completely caught me off guard… in the best way.
This was actually my first audiobook in a foreign language, and I had my doubts at the beginning. It took me a couple of chapters to adjust to the narration and to stop focusing so much on the voice itself. But once I let go and just allowed myself to feel the story, everything clicked — and I was in.
Nick J. Russo’s narration really fits this story. It’s not overly dramatic or exaggerated, but that actually makes everything feel more real. His voice is very pleasant to listen to, and it works well even in the scenes with kids, which I loved. The emotions land naturally, and yes… even the sexy scenes are very hot 👀
I was hooked from the very beginning. The setup alone — a city guy from LA ending up in a tiny middle-of-nowhere town during a full-on winter snowstorm — was just so good. I was actually laughing out loud at the start, which doesn’t happen that often.
What I really liked is that these aren’t inexperienced kids. They’re older, they’ve been through things, and you can really feel that maturity in the way their relationship develops. I especially appreciated the way Silas, with Cooper’s support, openly and honestly explores his bisexual side — it made the whole story feel much more believable and real.
And the family aspect… I absolutely loved that part. The moments with Cooper’s kids, the sense of warmth and belonging — it just hit me in the best way.
I also have a soft spot for the way Lane Hayes builds these small-town communities. Yes, it can be a little cheesy, maybe even a bit idealized, but honestly? I love it. I love the side characters, the little glimpses into other stories, that feeling that life continues beyond the main couple.
The chemistry between the main characters was honestly insane. I laughed out loud, had tears in my eyes during the more emotional moments, and I was genuinely moved during their coming out. And yes… I’m not even going to pretend — the intimate scenes gave me actual shivers and goosebumps 🔥
April 1, 2026
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Ooooooh I looooooove small-town Lane Hayes, so this first installment in the Wood Hollow Stories was a scrumptious romance that I found incredibly hot, cozy-cute, and sweet!!
I'll always be down bad for babes who find love AND a soft place to land when they need it the most. Where peace smells like pine trees, any cacophony is birdsong/wildlife/weather-related, and the townies care about everyone's wellbeing and aren't shy about meddling. A sanctuary away from the noise PLUS hearts on fire IS everything I want in a romance, and I can count on Hayes to deliver the heartwarming stuff better than most!
And though I wasn't a fan of the exes and their weird energy that made me more wary than not, I appreciated that they were both decent people navigating the complexities of their relationship endings with the men they no longer love but still care deeply about.
Silas and Cooper were lovely darlings who owed their romantic start to the matchmaking prowess of inclement weather, really irresponsible/disastrous lack of winter awareness because "vibes" (omg I was SHOUTING in Canadian tf) and all the sexy aspects of hypothermia two seconds shy of NFL career-ending frostbite.
Silas was a dolt and EXTREMELY lucky that Cooper was as available and as kind as they come. And I loved that Cooper got to be a hero and found someone who needed him and made him feel ways he hadn't felt in years.
I was veeeeeery into their sizzle, as they tore up both houses with their spicy neediness, and I was able to look past a few niggles because of how sexxxxy they were together!
There were more feel-good moments than weird vibes, the kiddies were all hilarious and entertaining, and the Wood Hollow denizens were the kind of quirky huggable folk I love to love!
Can't wait for more Wood Hollow Stories because this was a great start to a new Lane Hayes series that I'm sure will be an absolute winner for me!
Ooooooh I looooooove small-town Lane Hayes, so this first installment in the Wood Hollow Stories was a scrumptious romance that I found incredibly hot, cozy-cute, and sweet!!
I'll always be down bad for babes who find love AND a soft place to land when they need it the most. Where peace smells like pine trees, any cacophony is birdsong/wildlife/weather-related, and the townies care about everyone's wellbeing and aren't shy about meddling. A sanctuary away from the noise PLUS hearts on fire IS everything I want in a romance, and I can count on Hayes to deliver the heartwarming stuff better than most!
And though I wasn't a fan of the exes and their weird energy that made me more wary than not, I appreciated that they were both decent people navigating the complexities of their relationship endings with the men they no longer love but still care deeply about.
Silas and Cooper were lovely darlings who owed their romantic start to the matchmaking prowess of inclement weather, really irresponsible/disastrous lack of winter awareness because "vibes" (omg I was SHOUTING in Canadian tf) and all the sexy aspects of hypothermia two seconds shy of NFL career-ending frostbite.
Silas was a dolt and EXTREMELY lucky that Cooper was as available and as kind as they come. And I loved that Cooper got to be a hero and found someone who needed him and made him feel ways he hadn't felt in years.
I was veeeeeery into their sizzle, as they tore up both houses with their spicy neediness, and I was able to look past a few niggles because of how sexxxxy they were together!
There were more feel-good moments than weird vibes, the kiddies were all hilarious and entertaining, and the Wood Hollow denizens were the kind of quirky huggable folk I love to love!
Can't wait for more Wood Hollow Stories because this was a great start to a new Lane Hayes series that I'm sure will be an absolute winner for me!
April 28, 2026
🏈 Lost Puppy Meets Lumber Snack – A Cozy, Spicy Small Town Treat
Narrated by Nick J. Russo
This was my first read by Lane Hayes—and it definitely did not disappoint.
I absolutely loved the tropes: small town, snowed in, close proximity, single dad… honestly, it had everything I enjoy in a cozy MM romance. It was lighthearted, fun, cute, spicy, and a quick read without unnecessary drama—exactly the kind of comfort read I was in the mood for.
Silas completely stole the show for me. A newly retired NFL player, feeling a bit like a lost puppy with no real purpose, escaping the chaos and attention of the big city—his journey felt very real and relatable. Him retreating to a remote house in the woods of Vermont and meeting his “lumber snack” neighbor Cooper? Perfection.
The dynamic between them was just so easy and enjoyable. I found myself smiling and laughing so many times because of both men's inner monologues, Cooper's kids and their hilarious observations, and those random fun science facts sprinkled throughout the story. It added such a charming and unique touch.
The small-town setting, with the lake and nature backdrop, made everything feel extra cozy and immersive. And the kids? Absolutely adorable and genuinely funny—not annoying, which is rare.
One thing I really appreciated was that both characters were in their late 30s / early 40s and actually acted their age. Their communication felt mature, their behavior made sense, and their connection developed in a grounded, believable way.
There’s also a nice amount of spice with some bi-awakening moments, which were done in a fun and natural way—nothing too heavy, just right for the tone of the book. This was a great start to a new series, and I’m definitely looking forward to what’s coming next.
And the audiobook? Nick J. Russo delivered, as always. His narration elevated the story and brought the characters to life in the best way.
⭐ Breakdown:
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5)
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4)
Writing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4)
Spice: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5)
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4)
Narrated by Nick J. Russo
This was my first read by Lane Hayes—and it definitely did not disappoint.
I absolutely loved the tropes: small town, snowed in, close proximity, single dad… honestly, it had everything I enjoy in a cozy MM romance. It was lighthearted, fun, cute, spicy, and a quick read without unnecessary drama—exactly the kind of comfort read I was in the mood for.
Silas completely stole the show for me. A newly retired NFL player, feeling a bit like a lost puppy with no real purpose, escaping the chaos and attention of the big city—his journey felt very real and relatable. Him retreating to a remote house in the woods of Vermont and meeting his “lumber snack” neighbor Cooper? Perfection.
The dynamic between them was just so easy and enjoyable. I found myself smiling and laughing so many times because of both men's inner monologues, Cooper's kids and their hilarious observations, and those random fun science facts sprinkled throughout the story. It added such a charming and unique touch.
The small-town setting, with the lake and nature backdrop, made everything feel extra cozy and immersive. And the kids? Absolutely adorable and genuinely funny—not annoying, which is rare.
One thing I really appreciated was that both characters were in their late 30s / early 40s and actually acted their age. Their communication felt mature, their behavior made sense, and their connection developed in a grounded, believable way.
There’s also a nice amount of spice with some bi-awakening moments, which were done in a fun and natural way—nothing too heavy, just right for the tone of the book. This was a great start to a new series, and I’m definitely looking forward to what’s coming next.
And the audiobook? Nick J. Russo delivered, as always. His narration elevated the story and brought the characters to life in the best way.
⭐ Breakdown:
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5)
Characters: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4)
Writing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4)
Spice: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5)
Narration: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4)
May 8, 2026
The football star & the single dad (an audio review)
I’m a fan of Lane Hayes and am always willing to listen to anything the writes. I just finished her hockey series and was thrilled to see she’d moved on to small town Vermont. I love small town romances with just a touch of angst. This book was pretty low angst, but there were moments when I sort of wondered how everything was going to work out.
Silas has finished his football career. He’s hung up his helmet for the last time and, upon the suggestion of a friend, heads to a house in Vermont to relax. Unfortunately for Silas, the LA guy doesn’t know much about snow. Fortunately for him, his new neighbor Cooper does. Silas isn’t sticking around long but after receiving help from Cooper, he finds a way to enjoy his short time in Vermont.
And figures out a way to come back again.
Cooper is a single dad sharing custody of his two amazing children. He works in the executive office of the local lumber mill. He’s not officially a lumberjack, but he does have the plaid shirt. He’s balancing all the elements of his life and didn’t exactly plan on having a sexy new neighbor. Silas is just the right kind of distraction, though, and Cooper’s happy to adjust. Only one thing - Silas isn’t out. And Cooper’s not certain he wants his kids to know the extent of his relationship with the football player. The closer they become, though, the harder it is to keep their secret.
Then Silas looks at perhaps doing one final season and Cooper’s ex-wife drops a bombshell on him. Suddenly the men’s lives are very complicated. Now, this is a Lane Hayes romance, so I did get my happy ending. Hayes’s magic, though, is in making the characters relatable. Even Silas, with his fame and everything, is just a humble guy. Cooper’s family drama is something many of us have faced. In the end, I enjoyed this wonderful book.
Part of the enjoyment is definitely Nick J. Russo’s narration. He always does an amazing job and this was just perfect.
I’m a fan of Lane Hayes and am always willing to listen to anything the writes. I just finished her hockey series and was thrilled to see she’d moved on to small town Vermont. I love small town romances with just a touch of angst. This book was pretty low angst, but there were moments when I sort of wondered how everything was going to work out.
Silas has finished his football career. He’s hung up his helmet for the last time and, upon the suggestion of a friend, heads to a house in Vermont to relax. Unfortunately for Silas, the LA guy doesn’t know much about snow. Fortunately for him, his new neighbor Cooper does. Silas isn’t sticking around long but after receiving help from Cooper, he finds a way to enjoy his short time in Vermont.
And figures out a way to come back again.
Cooper is a single dad sharing custody of his two amazing children. He works in the executive office of the local lumber mill. He’s not officially a lumberjack, but he does have the plaid shirt. He’s balancing all the elements of his life and didn’t exactly plan on having a sexy new neighbor. Silas is just the right kind of distraction, though, and Cooper’s happy to adjust. Only one thing - Silas isn’t out. And Cooper’s not certain he wants his kids to know the extent of his relationship with the football player. The closer they become, though, the harder it is to keep their secret.
Then Silas looks at perhaps doing one final season and Cooper’s ex-wife drops a bombshell on him. Suddenly the men’s lives are very complicated. Now, this is a Lane Hayes romance, so I did get my happy ending. Hayes’s magic, though, is in making the characters relatable. Even Silas, with his fame and everything, is just a humble guy. Cooper’s family drama is something many of us have faced. In the end, I enjoyed this wonderful book.
Part of the enjoyment is definitely Nick J. Russo’s narration. He always does an amazing job and this was just perfect.
Review of advance copy
This was an absolutely perfect start to the new series in Lane's slightly interconnected small towns series which has now moved onto the once deprived but slowly regenerating Wood Hollow.
We get a really lovely hook-up to lovers romance between an NFL player who's just retired after a 15-year career and is searching for what's next and a single dad who's busy running the local mill while trying to balance his kids busy lives - and the pressure of his ex-wife's ideas for the future.
It handles everything with the care and attention to detail I'd expect from Lane and the kids are also age appropriate and never feel like they're getting in the way of the story.
The ex-wife also isn't a typical nasty character but is someone who's got new commitments that might affect their kids' future rather than dictating outcomes to her ex.
What starts as a temporary meet/cute because of circumstances, soon becomes something more, but both men have fears that hold them back from making a proper commitment and they continue to fight against what they both know is true - they could make a life together if they're brave enough to take the leap.
With some humour along the way, as well as plenty of steam as Silas explores his bisexuality outside of the risk of being exposed during his professional American Football career with Cooper a very eager teacher, this book delivers its narrative perfectly.
The secondary plot, with Silas' sleazebag agent exploiting his ex-wife's new elevated level of celebrity exposure thanks to her new mega actor boyfriend, worked okay for me.
But I did feel it occasionally took over the tension element of Silas coming to terms with the end of his career and finding a new way forward on his own.
That was pretty much my only niggle in what otherwise was a really great introduction to the latest in the Four Forest Towns.
I'm looking forward to seeing where the series goes next, as there's plenty of options and I believe it's baker Dex who will be getting his HEA.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours, I am voluntarily leaving a review
We get a really lovely hook-up to lovers romance between an NFL player who's just retired after a 15-year career and is searching for what's next and a single dad who's busy running the local mill while trying to balance his kids busy lives - and the pressure of his ex-wife's ideas for the future.
It handles everything with the care and attention to detail I'd expect from Lane and the kids are also age appropriate and never feel like they're getting in the way of the story.
The ex-wife also isn't a typical nasty character but is someone who's got new commitments that might affect their kids' future rather than dictating outcomes to her ex.
What starts as a temporary meet/cute because of circumstances, soon becomes something more, but both men have fears that hold them back from making a proper commitment and they continue to fight against what they both know is true - they could make a life together if they're brave enough to take the leap.
With some humour along the way, as well as plenty of steam as Silas explores his bisexuality outside of the risk of being exposed during his professional American Football career with Cooper a very eager teacher, this book delivers its narrative perfectly.
The secondary plot, with Silas' sleazebag agent exploiting his ex-wife's new elevated level of celebrity exposure thanks to her new mega actor boyfriend, worked okay for me.
But I did feel it occasionally took over the tension element of Silas coming to terms with the end of his career and finding a new way forward on his own.
That was pretty much my only niggle in what otherwise was a really great introduction to the latest in the Four Forest Towns.
I'm looking forward to seeing where the series goes next, as there's plenty of options and I believe it's baker Dex who will be getting his HEA.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours, I am voluntarily leaving a review
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒖𝒈𝒈𝒆𝒅 𝒍𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓𝒋𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂 𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒆𝒕, 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆 𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒊𝒎𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒉𝒆’𝒅 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒎𝒆.
I was sad when we reached the end of the hockey boys in the Elmwood Stories, but I shall cry no more because my football era has begun in Wood Hollow 🙌🏈
Lane Hayes kicks off her new series in the best way. If you've read her Elmwood series then you'll be familiar with the Four Forest area, and it was great hearing about characters and places that felt like old friends; but it was time to make some new friends and I totally fell in love with Silas, Cooper, and all of the people in their life.
Football star Silas has just retired from his career in the NFL, and he's looking for somewhere to escape the press due to his personal life, so he seeks refuge in his teammate's vacation home in Vermont, where he finds himself staying next door to single dad, Cooper.
When Cooper comes to Silas's rescue after getting stuck in the snow, the pair hunker down through a snowstorm together, and as Silas recovers from his mishap, the chemistry between them ignites in the best way.
What begins as a fling while Silas is in town grows into a friendship and then much more, as Silas returns to explore what they started...
I love the way Lane Hayes gives us feel-good, small-town romances that manage to steal our hearts, and it's no different here.
I adored the love between Silas and Cooper, but equally loved his relationship with Cooper's amazing children, Ivy and Chase.
Lane Hayes is the queen of low-angst romances, which feel like a warm hug, but also gives us plenty of spice with some delicious scenes... I especially loved the way Cooper went all rugged lumberjack and took control 🫠❤️🔥
𝑺𝒊𝒍𝒂𝒔 𝑨𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒏.
There were also plenty of laughs and locations that immediately felt like home.
I devoured This Guy in practically one sitting; that's how much I loved it! And there are so many fantastic side characters who already have my heart, and I can't wait to get their stories in my hands, too!
Silas and Cooper's story is one of my favourites from Lane, and I know I'll be revisiting them many times. Don't miss it!
𝑰’𝒅 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑪𝒐𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒓. 𝑰’𝒅 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒄𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉, 𝒕𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆, 𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒏 𝒐𝒏 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒏 𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔. 𝑰 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒄𝒉. 𝑨 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚, 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒂𝒊𝒓... 𝒀𝒆𝒂𝒉, 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒃𝒂𝒅. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆.
I was sad when we reached the end of the hockey boys in the Elmwood Stories, but I shall cry no more because my football era has begun in Wood Hollow 🙌🏈
Lane Hayes kicks off her new series in the best way. If you've read her Elmwood series then you'll be familiar with the Four Forest area, and it was great hearing about characters and places that felt like old friends; but it was time to make some new friends and I totally fell in love with Silas, Cooper, and all of the people in their life.
Football star Silas has just retired from his career in the NFL, and he's looking for somewhere to escape the press due to his personal life, so he seeks refuge in his teammate's vacation home in Vermont, where he finds himself staying next door to single dad, Cooper.
When Cooper comes to Silas's rescue after getting stuck in the snow, the pair hunker down through a snowstorm together, and as Silas recovers from his mishap, the chemistry between them ignites in the best way.
What begins as a fling while Silas is in town grows into a friendship and then much more, as Silas returns to explore what they started...
I love the way Lane Hayes gives us feel-good, small-town romances that manage to steal our hearts, and it's no different here.
I adored the love between Silas and Cooper, but equally loved his relationship with Cooper's amazing children, Ivy and Chase.
Lane Hayes is the queen of low-angst romances, which feel like a warm hug, but also gives us plenty of spice with some delicious scenes... I especially loved the way Cooper went all rugged lumberjack and took control 🫠❤️🔥
𝑺𝒊𝒍𝒂𝒔 𝑨𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒏.
There were also plenty of laughs and locations that immediately felt like home.
I devoured This Guy in practically one sitting; that's how much I loved it! And there are so many fantastic side characters who already have my heart, and I can't wait to get their stories in my hands, too!
Silas and Cooper's story is one of my favourites from Lane, and I know I'll be revisiting them many times. Don't miss it!
𝑰’𝒅 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑪𝒐𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒓. 𝑰’𝒅 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒄𝒓𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒄𝒉, 𝒕𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆, 𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒐𝒇 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒏 𝒐𝒏 𝒔𝒌𝒊𝒏 𝒒𝒖𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔. 𝑰 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒄𝒉. 𝑨 𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚, 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒂𝒊𝒓... 𝒀𝒆𝒂𝒉, 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒊𝒕 𝒃𝒂𝒅. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆.
March 31, 2026
I'm excited to be back in Vermont but at a different town of the Four Forest area. Silas Anderson has just retired at the age of 36 from playing as a wide receiver in the NFL from the LA team. HE is a bit depressed especially since his last season was not a good one for his team and also because he keeps getting reminders of his ex-wife and her new boyfriend. He decides to head to Vermont to stay at his teammates vacation home there. Unfortunately, just after he arrives a blizzard hits and his car gets stuck. He is rescued by his new next door neighbor, Cooper. Cooper is a divorced father with a girl and a boy which he shares custody of with his ex-wife and her new husband. Cooper is the manager of the local lumber mill and doesn't really pay attention to professional sports. HE helps Silas out and takes him to town so he can buy supplies and gives Silas his number and that of the local taxi driver. However, Cooper ends up saving Silas again when he tries to walk home with is groceries and ends up taking care of him in his home. Silas is bisexual but had always hidden that part of himself due to playing professional football. He and Cooper are attracted to each other and decide to have a no strings fling. Silas leaves to go back to LA but he keeps thinking about Cooper, and Cooper can't stop thinking about Silas. Silas" agent, Get, talks him out of retirement for one last season to play in Boston so he can retire on his terms. Silas agrees but decides to spend the summer in Vermont at his friend's home until training camp starts. Silas and Cooper soon reconnect and it becomes obvious to everyone but themselves that they are a couple. I really loved how Silas got into the spirit of small town living and helped coach the local youth flag football team and how patient he was with the children. I was so excited when he decided to come out before his final retirement and play as is true self. I can't wait to read Dexter's story.
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