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Maple Hollow #1
Big Bad Wolf
Not yet published
Expected 8 Sep 26From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Dream Harbor series, comes a brand new paranormal romance set in the small town of Maple Hollow.
The darker the woods, the bigger the secrets...
Ruby Bellerose lives on the edge of the woods, in a cottage more akin to a fairy tale than modern day life. Her love life is basically non-existent, and she keeps away from the whispered gossip that travels through Maple Hollow.
Until a chance encounter with Rafe.
As mysterious as he is brooding, Ruby is drawn to the woodsman, curious to find out more about the stranger who lives deep within the woods.
But Rafe is hiding a secret. And with something lurking in the shadowy forest, will Ruby find that Rafe is her knight in shining armor or something altogether more dangerous...
The darker the woods, the bigger the secrets...
Ruby Bellerose lives on the edge of the woods, in a cottage more akin to a fairy tale than modern day life. Her love life is basically non-existent, and she keeps away from the whispered gossip that travels through Maple Hollow.
Until a chance encounter with Rafe.
As mysterious as he is brooding, Ruby is drawn to the woodsman, curious to find out more about the stranger who lives deep within the woods.
But Rafe is hiding a secret. And with something lurking in the shadowy forest, will Ruby find that Rafe is her knight in shining armor or something altogether more dangerous...
384 pages, Paperback
Expected publication September 8, 2026
About the author
Laurie Gilmore
23 books16.5k followersLaurie Gilmore is a #1 New York Times, Sunday Times, and Globe & Mail bestselling author who writes steamy small-town romance. Her Dream Harbor series is filled with quirky townsfolk, cozy settings, and swoon-worthy romance. The first book in the series, The Pumpkin Spice Cafe, was featured on Good Morning America and was named the TikTok Shop Book of the Year 2024.
She loves finding books with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice and strives for that in her own writing. If you ever wished you lived in Stars Hollow (or that Luke and Lorelai would just get together already!) then her books are definitely for you.
She loves finding books with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice and strives for that in her own writing. If you ever wished you lived in Stars Hollow (or that Luke and Lorelai would just get together already!) then her books are definitely for you.
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July 13, 2026・❥・⁀➷ 🐺 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕
july 13- ive read one book by this author and wasn't super impressed but here's to my second chance 🤞🏼 the cover is cutie!!
"To my readers who like their fictional men with a few more red flags; I think you'll have fun in Maple Hollow" 🙂↕️🙂↕️
july 13- ive read one book by this author and wasn't super impressed but here's to my second chance 🤞🏼 the cover is cutie!!
"To my readers who like their fictional men with a few more red flags; I think you'll have fun in Maple Hollow" 🙂↕️🙂↕️
Want to Read
February 28, 2026um! i did not know this was happening!
Want to Read
April 21, 2026HELLO??? I DID NOT KNOW THIS WAS COMING AND I NEED A MOMENT 😱
July 22, 2026
1 1/2⭐️
ARC
If one of those moody werewolf graphics and a hot topic employee from 2008 came together it would be this romance. I struggled so much to get through this. It’s baseline every werewolf romance you’ve ever read before. If I had to read about Rafe being like “oh I need to leave you to keep you safe I’m a monster” one more time I think I would have evaporated. I hoped the highland wolves would have gotten to them both in the end.
ARC
If one of those moody werewolf graphics and a hot topic employee from 2008 came together it would be this romance. I struggled so much to get through this. It’s baseline every werewolf romance you’ve ever read before. If I had to read about Rafe being like “oh I need to leave you to keep you safe I’m a monster” one more time I think I would have evaporated. I hoped the highland wolves would have gotten to them both in the end.
August 6, 2026
🍂🐺 Ik mocht Big Bad Wolf alvast vooruit lezen van uitgeverij HarperCollins en als fan van Laurie Gilmore haar boeken en schrijfstijl vond ik dit zó leuk!
Ik rolde weer gelijk in het verhaal. En yes, zoals Laurie zelf in haar dankwoord schreef: ik ben net zo verliefd geworden op Maple Hollow als op Dream Harbor. De knipoog naar Dream Harbor in het verhaal vond ik ook echt heel leuk. En ik hou nu alweer van alle side characters, de cozy small town sfeer, de heerlijke herfstvibes én het familiegevoel dat de bewoners van Maple Hollow met elkaar hebben.
Wat ik wel iets minder vond, is dat dit boek naar mijn mening vooral een opbouw is naar het volgende deel. Daardoor gebeurt er in dit eerste boek qua plot niet heel veel. Maaaar… daardoor ben ik nu juist wel heel benieuwd naar het vervolg.
Ik rolde weer gelijk in het verhaal. En yes, zoals Laurie zelf in haar dankwoord schreef: ik ben net zo verliefd geworden op Maple Hollow als op Dream Harbor. De knipoog naar Dream Harbor in het verhaal vond ik ook echt heel leuk. En ik hou nu alweer van alle side characters, de cozy small town sfeer, de heerlijke herfstvibes én het familiegevoel dat de bewoners van Maple Hollow met elkaar hebben.
Wat ik wel iets minder vond, is dat dit boek naar mijn mening vooral een opbouw is naar het volgende deel. Daardoor gebeurt er in dit eerste boek qua plot niet heel veel. Maaaar… daardoor ben ik nu juist wel heel benieuwd naar het vervolg.
July 18, 2026
Dit boek begon echt heerlijk, ik vloog er doorheen! Op ongeveer een derde merkte ik echter dat ik mijn aandacht begon te verliezen. Desondanks heb ik van dit boek genoten. Je weet altijd was je van Laurie Gilmore kunt verwachten (cozy, spicy, lekker cliche) en dit boek past ook weer precies in dat rijtje. Ik had wel iets meer weerwolf slang verwachten tho, alpha, omega, etc (knotting???? lmaooo)
July 19, 2026
I was so excited to pick this one up because the author is known for her cozy, small-town romances. Mixing that charm with a Big Bad Wolf retelling and a touch of the paranormal sounded like so much fun!
This time, we leave Dream Harbor behind for Maple Hollow, and I already love that this is shaping up to be another series. Maple Hollow is a town full of secrets, whispered gossip, and one important rule: don’t go into the woods alone at night.
Ruby lives in a cabin she inherited from her aunt with her sister, Lena. When she meets Rafe, the town’s mysteries begin to unravel, and despite their best efforts, the two can’t seem to stay away from each other.
Overall, I loved the premise and flew through this book. There were a few moments where I felt a little confused, and the pacing dragged at times. I also wanted to shake Rafe more than once (IYKYK!). Even with those small frustrations, I’m completely invested in Maple Hollow and can’t wait to see whose story we get next! It was so invested in the side characters knowing I’d see them again!
This time, we leave Dream Harbor behind for Maple Hollow, and I already love that this is shaping up to be another series. Maple Hollow is a town full of secrets, whispered gossip, and one important rule: don’t go into the woods alone at night.
Ruby lives in a cabin she inherited from her aunt with her sister, Lena. When she meets Rafe, the town’s mysteries begin to unravel, and despite their best efforts, the two can’t seem to stay away from each other.
Overall, I loved the premise and flew through this book. There were a few moments where I felt a little confused, and the pacing dragged at times. I also wanted to shake Rafe more than once (IYKYK!). Even with those small frustrations, I’m completely invested in Maple Hollow and can’t wait to see whose story we get next! It was so invested in the side characters knowing I’d see them again!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was just a super cozy, if cheesy, paranormal romance! I think I'm just always going to love werewolf romances, and this one had everything!
Ruby was an FMC I really loved. She's spunky and bold, not afraid to assert her independence and strength, not one to easily bow down and submit to a broody man's conviction that he knows best, can/should protect her, or that she can't do things herself. She's also incredibly brave and loving, especially towards her sister, whom I also felt a soft spot in my heart for because she is said to have been such a bright light before a mysterious 'illness' started plaguing her and made her the subject of gossip in town. On that note, Ruby's loving nature is complemented by her loyalty and protective nature of her own, trying to shield her sister from not only stress but also judgment. The whole way through, I was really rooting for Ruby to get what she wanted, to get answers and love, because I really liked her character!
And Rafe! What a softy hiding inside a burly, broody shell. His heart broke my own, and I really felt for him. Between his protectiveness over Ruby, his self-consciousness about himself and his guilt over things of his past, and the details we get about his family and his past with his brothers, his heart is just too big for him! He truly is so caring, so compassionate and full of love and care. He notices the little things, he is selfless, he is protective and willing to resort to anything to keep those he loves safe. Yet, he also feels guilty for not living up to the violent expectations of his father, for failing to keep those he loves safe (even when it's not his fault), and feeling like a monster for his role in violence. I admired how he broke free from a life of violence, even if he now struggles with loneliness and guilt.
Their romance was super sweet. As with lots of werewolf romances, there is a sense of insta-attraction, yet what I massively appreciated in here (and which can be hard to find in werewolf romances) is that the feelings that developed over the story felt genuine. They both love each other for reasons that aren't just attraction, it's ACTUALLY about who they are, not just how they look. I also loved the way they challenged each other through their banter and similar protective natures. There's a good amount of humor and spice, but also heartfelt and cozy moments!
The side characters were also fabulous! I loved Lena, Ruby's sister, along with Callie, Sal, and a big shoutout to Dolores! They really added to the fun of the story. More than that, the plotlines outside the romance definitely helped keep the story going and had my interest. Getting more and more revealed about Rafe's family (very turbulent sibling and parent dynamics that were really compelling) made his character even more complex, and I was also really intrigued to figure out what was going on with Lena's illness and the target that seemed to be on Ruby's back.
On that note, the Red Riding Hood feel of the story was fun, even if not super strong. As a whole, this is romance-forward but has also has a good amount of other mysteries, relationships, and a host of fun side characters and humor, too! This is definitely a series in terms of the plotlines outside the romance, as it ends on a cliffhanger!
At times the pacing was slow, and my other struggle was with how much Rafe's character waffled back and forth (and how suddenly it would happen). While it was understandable given his past and feelings/thoughts, it just got to be a bit too repetitive that it was distracting and overtook the story.
I'd definitely recommend this for those who just want a fun, cozy, paranormal romance for fall! Yes, it's cheesy, but fun!
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK One More Chapter for the eARC; all opinions are my own.
Ruby was an FMC I really loved. She's spunky and bold, not afraid to assert her independence and strength, not one to easily bow down and submit to a broody man's conviction that he knows best, can/should protect her, or that she can't do things herself. She's also incredibly brave and loving, especially towards her sister, whom I also felt a soft spot in my heart for because she is said to have been such a bright light before a mysterious 'illness' started plaguing her and made her the subject of gossip in town. On that note, Ruby's loving nature is complemented by her loyalty and protective nature of her own, trying to shield her sister from not only stress but also judgment. The whole way through, I was really rooting for Ruby to get what she wanted, to get answers and love, because I really liked her character!
And Rafe! What a softy hiding inside a burly, broody shell. His heart broke my own, and I really felt for him. Between his protectiveness over Ruby, his self-consciousness about himself and his guilt over things of his past, and the details we get about his family and his past with his brothers, his heart is just too big for him! He truly is so caring, so compassionate and full of love and care. He notices the little things, he is selfless, he is protective and willing to resort to anything to keep those he loves safe. Yet, he also feels guilty for not living up to the violent expectations of his father, for failing to keep those he loves safe (even when it's not his fault), and feeling like a monster for his role in violence. I admired how he broke free from a life of violence, even if he now struggles with loneliness and guilt.
Their romance was super sweet. As with lots of werewolf romances, there is a sense of insta-attraction, yet what I massively appreciated in here (and which can be hard to find in werewolf romances) is that the feelings that developed over the story felt genuine. They both love each other for reasons that aren't just attraction, it's ACTUALLY about who they are, not just how they look. I also loved the way they challenged each other through their banter and similar protective natures. There's a good amount of humor and spice, but also heartfelt and cozy moments!
The side characters were also fabulous! I loved Lena, Ruby's sister, along with Callie, Sal, and a big shoutout to Dolores! They really added to the fun of the story. More than that, the plotlines outside the romance definitely helped keep the story going and had my interest. Getting more and more revealed about Rafe's family (very turbulent sibling and parent dynamics that were really compelling) made his character even more complex, and I was also really intrigued to figure out what was going on with Lena's illness and the target that seemed to be on Ruby's back.
On that note, the Red Riding Hood feel of the story was fun, even if not super strong. As a whole, this is romance-forward but has also has a good amount of other mysteries, relationships, and a host of fun side characters and humor, too! This is definitely a series in terms of the plotlines outside the romance, as it ends on a cliffhanger!
At times the pacing was slow, and my other struggle was with how much Rafe's character waffled back and forth (and how suddenly it would happen). While it was understandable given his past and feelings/thoughts, it just got to be a bit too repetitive that it was distracting and overtook the story.
I'd definitely recommend this for those who just want a fun, cozy, paranormal romance for fall! Yes, it's cheesy, but fun!
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK One More Chapter for the eARC; all opinions are my own.
July 15, 2026
Someone please tell me where the moving trucks to Maple Hollow are because I’m ready to relocate. 🏡 I was not prepared for how much I would fall for this cozy little town filled with magic, mystery, secrets and the perfect amount of small town chaos. Laurie Gilmore took those classic Little Red Riding Hood vibes and threw them into a paranormal romance blender and PUFF!!! somehow the result was exactly the kind of magical, slightly spooky, cozy escape I didn’t know I needed.
Ruby was a character I instantly wanted to protect and cheer for. She’s kind, strong and has spent so much of her life feeling like she’s the odd piece that doesn’t quite fit. (My poor girl, I wanted to give her a hug.) Watching her navigate everything with Lena while trying to uncover the strange things happening around them made me feel so connected to her journey. Seeing Ruby realize she wasn’t as alone as she thought and that she had people who genuinely cared about her? My heart. 🥹
And then there’s Rafe… our grumpy, mysterious wolf who apparently decided emotional communication was optional. Sir… respectfully… GET IT TOGETHER. 😂 His brooding “I’m dangerous, stay away from me” attitude had me wanting to grab him by the shoulders and remind him that Ruby is literally right there. But underneath all that stubbornness is someone carrying pain, fear and a past he’s still trying to understand. Watching him slowly lower those walls and let Ruby in was honestly one of my favorite parts.
The romance gave me everything I wanted: cozy fall nights, fated mates, forced proximity, spice, tension and those moments where you’re screaming internally, “JUST ADMIT YOU LIKE EACH OTHER ALREADY!” The magical elements with werewolves, witches, nymphs and other creatures made Maple Hollow feel like somewhere I would absolutely move to… preferably with a cozy cottage and a warning sign that says “Please don’t follow suspicious wolves into the woods.”
The side characters were such a fun addition and Theo? Excuse me, sir! You have my attention. 👀 I’m already invested and desperately curious about where his story will go next. The town itself became its own character, full of gossip, secrets, quirky personalities and that charming small town feeling that makes you want to be part of the chaos.
My only little complaint is that the romance slowed down a bit in the middle because Rafe’s internal battle started feeling a little repetitive. Thankfully, the story picked back up and pulled me right back in.
Final Thoughts: Maple Hollow is a cozy paranormal romance wrapped in fairytale magic, mystery, found family and a grumpy wolf who desperately needs to learn how to communicate. It’s the kind of book that feels like a warm blanket, a cup of coffee and a chilly autumn evening all rolled into one. If you love small towns, magical creatures, fated mates, grumpy heroes and romances that make you smile like an idiot while yelling at your book… welcome to Maple Hollow.
Thank you to HarperCollins and NetGalley for the incredible opportunity to read and review this book.
Big Bad Wolf will be released on September 8, 2026. 🐺🍂
Ruby was a character I instantly wanted to protect and cheer for. She’s kind, strong and has spent so much of her life feeling like she’s the odd piece that doesn’t quite fit. (My poor girl, I wanted to give her a hug.) Watching her navigate everything with Lena while trying to uncover the strange things happening around them made me feel so connected to her journey. Seeing Ruby realize she wasn’t as alone as she thought and that she had people who genuinely cared about her? My heart. 🥹
And then there’s Rafe… our grumpy, mysterious wolf who apparently decided emotional communication was optional. Sir… respectfully… GET IT TOGETHER. 😂 His brooding “I’m dangerous, stay away from me” attitude had me wanting to grab him by the shoulders and remind him that Ruby is literally right there. But underneath all that stubbornness is someone carrying pain, fear and a past he’s still trying to understand. Watching him slowly lower those walls and let Ruby in was honestly one of my favorite parts.
The romance gave me everything I wanted: cozy fall nights, fated mates, forced proximity, spice, tension and those moments where you’re screaming internally, “JUST ADMIT YOU LIKE EACH OTHER ALREADY!” The magical elements with werewolves, witches, nymphs and other creatures made Maple Hollow feel like somewhere I would absolutely move to… preferably with a cozy cottage and a warning sign that says “Please don’t follow suspicious wolves into the woods.”
The side characters were such a fun addition and Theo? Excuse me, sir! You have my attention. 👀 I’m already invested and desperately curious about where his story will go next. The town itself became its own character, full of gossip, secrets, quirky personalities and that charming small town feeling that makes you want to be part of the chaos.
My only little complaint is that the romance slowed down a bit in the middle because Rafe’s internal battle started feeling a little repetitive. Thankfully, the story picked back up and pulled me right back in.
Final Thoughts: Maple Hollow is a cozy paranormal romance wrapped in fairytale magic, mystery, found family and a grumpy wolf who desperately needs to learn how to communicate. It’s the kind of book that feels like a warm blanket, a cup of coffee and a chilly autumn evening all rolled into one. If you love small towns, magical creatures, fated mates, grumpy heroes and romances that make you smile like an idiot while yelling at your book… welcome to Maple Hollow.
Thank you to HarperCollins and NetGalley for the incredible opportunity to read and review this book.
Big Bad Wolf will be released on September 8, 2026. 🐺🍂
July 31, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins, and Laurie Gilmore for the eARC! All opinions are my own. This review may contain spoilers.
The plot:
Ruby lives in a small town with her twin Lena. Rafe lives on the edge of the small town. By chance, they happen to meet at the restaurant Ruby works at. And they are instantaneously drawn to each other. At the same time, Ruby's sister is unwell and these weird men at the restaurant keep looking for Ruby... what could possibly be happening? If you couldn't tell, this is a retelling of the Little Red Riding Hood where she is seduced by the wolf.
The review:
So, this was my first Laurie Gilmore. I've never read the Pumpkin Spice Cafe and associate novels, but have always been interested due to their popularity. When I saw that Big Bad Wolf was available, I snatched it up. Unfortunately, this was a toughhh read. No wonder Laurie Gilmore publishes like 3 books a year. The writing is the fast fashion equivalent of rom coms: high quantity, low quality.
This book was all plot. There were zero characters and a scrap of interesting dialogue. I couldn't even tell you anything about Ruby except her lips are red. Took me multiple chapters to realized she dresses in dark colors and gothily and that it was a big part of her personality. Lena is nothing beyond her illness. Rafe is big wolf. I was thirsting for nuance or dimension to these characters but I fear I stayed thirsty.
Some of these characters are kind of pointless. I understand we are the first book of a series and we could be introducing some regulars but damn did these folks not contribute to the plot.
Of course they're mates. That's why they're instantly attracted to and totally hot for each other. No building of tension needed. I love a mate trope but the way mate was used to justify their instant attraction and not build any kind of yearning was lazy writing.
Rafe is hot and cold uncharacteristically and for no reason. One second he's like "I can't". Ruby so much as takes in a breath of air, and Rafe's like "oh well I guess I can". His motives rarely made sense and I was not convinced.
For my banter fans, you will not find it here. Instead of kicking your feel and squealing, you will want to pinch yourself out of this bad dream.
I recognize I may have been a little harsh, but my expectations were quite high given the popularity of Laurie Gilmore's works. I am disappointed in how rushed this book felt.
If you are looking for shifter romance, I would recommend Bride by Ali Hazelwood or The things we water by Mariana Zapata instead.
The plot:
Ruby lives in a small town with her twin Lena. Rafe lives on the edge of the small town. By chance, they happen to meet at the restaurant Ruby works at. And they are instantaneously drawn to each other. At the same time, Ruby's sister is unwell and these weird men at the restaurant keep looking for Ruby... what could possibly be happening? If you couldn't tell, this is a retelling of the Little Red Riding Hood where she is seduced by the wolf.
The review:
So, this was my first Laurie Gilmore. I've never read the Pumpkin Spice Cafe and associate novels, but have always been interested due to their popularity. When I saw that Big Bad Wolf was available, I snatched it up. Unfortunately, this was a toughhh read. No wonder Laurie Gilmore publishes like 3 books a year. The writing is the fast fashion equivalent of rom coms: high quantity, low quality.
This book was all plot. There were zero characters and a scrap of interesting dialogue. I couldn't even tell you anything about Ruby except her lips are red. Took me multiple chapters to realized she dresses in dark colors and gothily and that it was a big part of her personality. Lena is nothing beyond her illness. Rafe is big wolf. I was thirsting for nuance or dimension to these characters but I fear I stayed thirsty.
Some of these characters are kind of pointless. I understand we are the first book of a series and we could be introducing some regulars but damn did these folks not contribute to the plot.
Of course they're mates. That's why they're instantly attracted to and totally hot for each other. No building of tension needed. I love a mate trope but the way mate was used to justify their instant attraction and not build any kind of yearning was lazy writing.
Rafe is hot and cold uncharacteristically and for no reason. One second he's like "I can't". Ruby so much as takes in a breath of air, and Rafe's like "oh well I guess I can". His motives rarely made sense and I was not convinced.
For my banter fans, you will not find it here. Instead of kicking your feel and squealing, you will want to pinch yourself out of this bad dream.
I recognize I may have been a little harsh, but my expectations were quite high given the popularity of Laurie Gilmore's works. I am disappointed in how rushed this book felt.
If you are looking for shifter romance, I would recommend Bride by Ali Hazelwood or The things we water by Mariana Zapata instead.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2026
I love the twist on a traditional fairytale story. I read this one in one sitting. The characters and banter were great. I haven't read very many werewolf books, but now maybe I need to read more. The messaging of love is more powerful than hate solidified the connection between Ruby and Rafe. Their chemistry was so perfect. I am very interested in the storyline of Ruby’s sister and can not wait to get to the next book.
Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins, for the chance to review this book.
Thank you, NetGalley and HarperCollins, for the chance to review this book.
July 25, 2026
Retellings and I have never gotten along. Big Bad Wolf changed my mind and I'm still a little suspicious about how easily it happened.
Ruby Bellerose lives on the edge of Maple Hollow, in a cottage that feels more fairytale than modern life, she keeps her circle small and stays well clear of the town's gossip mill. What she doesn't know yet: Maple Hollow is not the sleepy nothing-town she thinks it is. Werewolves, nymphs, seers, the whole cast of creatures she grew up hearing about in bedtime stories turn out to be her actual neighbours, and Ruby gets pulled into that world piece by piece, whether she's ready or not. Enter Rafe. Broody, unreadable, living deep in the woods for reasons nobody in town will explain to her, and very much part of the secret Maple Hollow's been keeping. Something's stalking the treeline too, and Rafe knows more about it than he's letting on. Ruby falls for him anyway, because we are readers of romance and we know exactly what we signed up for the second "woodsman" showed up in the blurb.
Rafe calling her "brave girl" lived in my head rent-free for the entire back half of this book. I did not know that was a pet name I needed until it was deployed on me with zero warning. The grumpy x sunshine dynamic actually earns its stripes here, he's not just broody for the aesthetic, he fell first and he fell HARD, and watching him try to hide it while failing spectacularly was some of the best tension in the book. The slow unraveling of Maple Hollow's paranormal underbelly was genuinely so much fun, every new reveal about who's what in this town made me trust the world-building more, not less.
Trope Chaos Check
✨ Fated mates
✨ Grumpy x sunshine (he fell first and he fell HARD)
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Werewolf x human
✨ Found family
✨ Secrets (so many secrets)
★★★★✬ a fairytale retelling that actually earned my trust, one "brave girl" at a time.
Laurie Gilmore, thank you for making me eat every word I've ever said about not liking retellings, you did it on purpose and I respect the audacity. And to HarperCollins, thank you for this ARC so I could lose several evenings to it against my will.
Onto book two, Maple Hollow, I am NOT emotionally prepared and I am going anyway.
Ruby Bellerose lives on the edge of Maple Hollow, in a cottage that feels more fairytale than modern life, she keeps her circle small and stays well clear of the town's gossip mill. What she doesn't know yet: Maple Hollow is not the sleepy nothing-town she thinks it is. Werewolves, nymphs, seers, the whole cast of creatures she grew up hearing about in bedtime stories turn out to be her actual neighbours, and Ruby gets pulled into that world piece by piece, whether she's ready or not. Enter Rafe. Broody, unreadable, living deep in the woods for reasons nobody in town will explain to her, and very much part of the secret Maple Hollow's been keeping. Something's stalking the treeline too, and Rafe knows more about it than he's letting on. Ruby falls for him anyway, because we are readers of romance and we know exactly what we signed up for the second "woodsman" showed up in the blurb.
Rafe calling her "brave girl" lived in my head rent-free for the entire back half of this book. I did not know that was a pet name I needed until it was deployed on me with zero warning. The grumpy x sunshine dynamic actually earns its stripes here, he's not just broody for the aesthetic, he fell first and he fell HARD, and watching him try to hide it while failing spectacularly was some of the best tension in the book. The slow unraveling of Maple Hollow's paranormal underbelly was genuinely so much fun, every new reveal about who's what in this town made me trust the world-building more, not less.
Trope Chaos Check
✨ Fated mates
✨ Grumpy x sunshine (he fell first and he fell HARD)
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Werewolf x human
✨ Found family
✨ Secrets (so many secrets)
★★★★✬ a fairytale retelling that actually earned my trust, one "brave girl" at a time.
Laurie Gilmore, thank you for making me eat every word I've ever said about not liking retellings, you did it on purpose and I respect the audacity. And to HarperCollins, thank you for this ARC so I could lose several evenings to it against my will.
Onto book two, Maple Hollow, I am NOT emotionally prepared and I am going anyway.
July 27, 2026
Well done Laurie Gilmore! This was exactly what I was hoping for. I'm so glad I received the request to read this! Ruby and Rafe! I enjoyed the hints of little red riding hood sprinkled throughout the book. Ruby being feisty was great. I'm glad that she had spunk and didn't just back down to everything. Lena on the other hand, I'm not a fan. She doesn't want to talk about her episodes, so Ruby doesn't push and tells her to get some rest. She thinks Ruby is just a silly little girl believing in her fantasy world but then gets mad that Ruby didn't tell her it's real. Oh wait, Ruby DID tell her and she told her she was crazy. Then when she realizes it's all real, is mad again at Ruby for keeping more stuff from her. The constant whiplash from Lena and her tantrums is annoying. You either want to know and will listen or shut up and mind ya business! Every time there was a conversation with her I was exhausted. I'm not sure if she is supposed to be that unlikable but yikes. Rafe, he just sounds so hot. The only thing I wasn't a fan of when it came to him is the constant back and forth. I'm all for tension and yearning and boy it was there! However, his dad was a lying POS and he should have known that by now. This "I couldn't save Scarlet" was tiring. Your dad killed her. Nothing he could have done and also NOT HIS FAULT. He kept wanting to say it happened a decade ago and didn't want to talk about it yet, he was ALWAYS going back to it as an excuse to stay away from Ruby. I also didn't think Ruby was 100% human....she's a seer. He kept saying that like it mattered. Other than that frustrating quirk, I liked Rafe. The gruffness and his need to protect her were top tier. Thank you for not overloading the book with spice. It was just enough and at the right times. I wanted that yearning and will they/won't they. Helps make you want to keep going to see if they finally get together in all the ways. I had my suspicion about the ending and was right. I personally think that Ruby sees all her "visions" as dreams unlike Lena. I look forward to the next book and really hope I get approved so I can know what happens next! Thanks again for this ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2026
Thank you to Harper Collins Canada, NetGalley and Laurie Gilmore for the opportunity to read and review this early!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! This was my first Laurie Gilmore book and I am a huge fan of paranormal romance.
I went into this book honestly thinking it was going to be pretty corny based on the description. I think it does a great job of adding the Little Red Riding Hood elements into the story without them being over done or feeling like too much.
If you like the concept of fated mates, or the MCs fighting over whether they are meant to be together, this is a good book for you. There’s just something about a story where you want to grab a character and shake them to knock some sense into them!
The setting of Maple Hallow is cozy and the side characters are quirky and memorable. The plot overall gave me Twilight vibes, with Ruby just being so okay with Rafe being a werewolf, or with how a lot of the wolf stuff was handled.
Can’t wait to tuck into the next book when it comes out!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! This was my first Laurie Gilmore book and I am a huge fan of paranormal romance.
I went into this book honestly thinking it was going to be pretty corny based on the description. I think it does a great job of adding the Little Red Riding Hood elements into the story without them being over done or feeling like too much.
If you like the concept of fated mates, or the MCs fighting over whether they are meant to be together, this is a good book for you. There’s just something about a story where you want to grab a character and shake them to knock some sense into them!
The setting of Maple Hallow is cozy and the side characters are quirky and memorable. The plot overall gave me Twilight vibes, with Ruby just being so okay with Rafe being a werewolf, or with how a lot of the wolf stuff was handled.
Can’t wait to tuck into the next book when it comes out!
July 29, 2026
Big Bad Wolf is cozy, with some yearning small town romance, it was just as I expected it to be.
The main character, Ruby, was nice enough and a bit quirky. She was really easy to forgive, which was a bit annoying at times but worked for her character.
I felt bad for Ruby’s twin sister Lena who was treated like she was broken throughout the whole book, and basically baby sat even though the main plot revolved around her too.
As for Rafe, he was a sweet MMC but frustrating in the way that he constantly tried to leave Ruby, because he was “too dangerous” and just wasn’t good for her. It was good to understand his back story and why he was like that, but the “will they, won’t they”, although it built tension, annoyed me at the same time.
Overall, the characters were interesting, the plot well paced, and the setting atmospheric. The romance was just slow despite being Instalove.
If you’re a lover of cozy fantasy with small town vibes, this will be right up your alley.
I can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
Thanks so much to Net galley and Harper Collins Australia for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The main character, Ruby, was nice enough and a bit quirky. She was really easy to forgive, which was a bit annoying at times but worked for her character.
I felt bad for Ruby’s twin sister Lena who was treated like she was broken throughout the whole book, and basically baby sat even though the main plot revolved around her too.
As for Rafe, he was a sweet MMC but frustrating in the way that he constantly tried to leave Ruby, because he was “too dangerous” and just wasn’t good for her. It was good to understand his back story and why he was like that, but the “will they, won’t they”, although it built tension, annoyed me at the same time.
Overall, the characters were interesting, the plot well paced, and the setting atmospheric. The romance was just slow despite being Instalove.
If you’re a lover of cozy fantasy with small town vibes, this will be right up your alley.
I can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
Thanks so much to Net galley and Harper Collins Australia for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2026
✨ Thank you to Harper Collin’s Publishers Australia & NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review ✨
3.5 ⭐️
This was a cute, spicy, cosy time. The fall setting & paranormal elements are very atmospheric and would make for a great October reading experience.
The romance is your typical werewolf/mate trope story, and the world building is a little weak but I enjoyed all the characters (even though the MMC was kind of insufferable in the last third). More focus is given to the romance than the fantasy elements, so expect that going in.
Would like to read the other brothers books and see where the overarching storyline goes so I’ll continue on in this series. Also the covers are incredible. Give the cover artist a raise. 👏🏼
3.5 ⭐️
This was a cute, spicy, cosy time. The fall setting & paranormal elements are very atmospheric and would make for a great October reading experience.
The romance is your typical werewolf/mate trope story, and the world building is a little weak but I enjoyed all the characters (even though the MMC was kind of insufferable in the last third). More focus is given to the romance than the fantasy elements, so expect that going in.
Would like to read the other brothers books and see where the overarching storyline goes so I’ll continue on in this series. Also the covers are incredible. Give the cover artist a raise. 👏🏼
July 8, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
If you're a fan of cozy fantasy, small-town vibes, and werewolves, I think you'll really enjoy this one. The story follows Ruby, who's grown up hearing the local legends her entire life, only to discover there might be more truth to them than she ever imagined. When she crosses paths with Rafe, the chemistry between them is immediate, and I loved watching their relationship unfold against the backdrop of all the mystery surrounding the town.
What I enjoyed most was that it wasn't just a romance. The side characters each have their own personalities and storylines that kept me invested, and the world feels like one you want to keep coming back to. There are plenty of twists along the way, and by the end I was already wondering what will happen next.
If you're a fan of cozy fantasy, small-town vibes, and werewolves, I think you'll really enjoy this one. The story follows Ruby, who's grown up hearing the local legends her entire life, only to discover there might be more truth to them than she ever imagined. When she crosses paths with Rafe, the chemistry between them is immediate, and I loved watching their relationship unfold against the backdrop of all the mystery surrounding the town.
What I enjoyed most was that it wasn't just a romance. The side characters each have their own personalities and storylines that kept me invested, and the world feels like one you want to keep coming back to. There are plenty of twists along the way, and by the end I was already wondering what will happen next.
July 23, 2026
✨ARC review✨
Shut. The. Front. Door.
Laurie Gilmore… how could you leave me with an ending like THAT?! 😭
Once again, Laurie Gilmore absolutely knocked it out of the park. I loved, loved, LOVED this story from beginning to end. Rafe and Ruby completely stole my heart, and I was rooting for them the entire time. I especially loved Ruby’s strength and determination to protect her sister, while at the same time learning how to be vulnerable herself.
This book had me feeling everything. I was laughing one minute, completely stressed the next, and with that ending my anxiety is now through the roof. I genuinely could not put it down because I had to know what was going to happen.
And then… THAT ENDING. 😱
I need the next book immediately because I refuse to be left hanging like this.
Shut. The. Front. Door.
Laurie Gilmore… how could you leave me with an ending like THAT?! 😭
Once again, Laurie Gilmore absolutely knocked it out of the park. I loved, loved, LOVED this story from beginning to end. Rafe and Ruby completely stole my heart, and I was rooting for them the entire time. I especially loved Ruby’s strength and determination to protect her sister, while at the same time learning how to be vulnerable herself.
This book had me feeling everything. I was laughing one minute, completely stressed the next, and with that ending my anxiety is now through the roof. I genuinely could not put it down because I had to know what was going to happen.
And then… THAT ENDING. 😱
I need the next book immediately because I refuse to be left hanging like this.
July 23, 2026
Modern-day Red Riding Hood retelling? Broody, protective werewolf? Say less.
This book was so much fun. I absolutely devoured it. The creepy forest vibes, the cozy little town, the mystery and Rafe being the protective, broody man that he is… I was obsessed. This is exactly the kind of cozy paranormal romance I want more of and now I need the next book immediately.
If cozy paranormal romance with a protective werewolf MMC, small-town secrets and just the right amount of eerie atmosphere sounds like your thing, you need this one on your TBR.
Thank you to the publisher for the proof!
This book was so much fun. I absolutely devoured it. The creepy forest vibes, the cozy little town, the mystery and Rafe being the protective, broody man that he is… I was obsessed. This is exactly the kind of cozy paranormal romance I want more of and now I need the next book immediately.
If cozy paranormal romance with a protective werewolf MMC, small-town secrets and just the right amount of eerie atmosphere sounds like your thing, you need this one on your TBR.
Thank you to the publisher for the proof!
July 30, 2026
I always enjoy a Laurie Gilmore book, and this one is no different. It’s a small town, werewolf, romance with a touch of mystery and magic. There are so many twists and turns it kept me glued. I really enjoyed the relationship between Ruby and Lena, and how it changed over the course of the book. I also definitely want to see more Theo!! There was also some fun moments, they felt very found family when the whole crew was together, it brought a good valence of joy/humour into the story. I definitely did not see the ending coming!
Want to Read
July 6, 2026🧡 Big Bad Wolf 🧡
📖 Bookish Thoughts
My full review will be shared closer to the publication date.
✨ What to Expect
• Small Town Romance
• Fated Mates
• Grumpy x Sunshine
• Forced Proximity
• Found Family
• Cozy Paranormal
_ _ _ _
📅 Pub Date: September 8, 2026
Thank you to Harper 360, and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
📖 Bookish Thoughts
My full review will be shared closer to the publication date.
✨ What to Expect
• Small Town Romance
• Fated Mates
• Grumpy x Sunshine
• Forced Proximity
• Found Family
• Cozy Paranormal
_ _ _ _
📅 Pub Date: September 8, 2026
Thank you to Harper 360, and NetGalley for the advanced copy.
July 18, 2026
I was super excited to get my hands on this book, since I loved Gilmore’s other series, The Pumpkin Spice Cafe. This one, however, didn’t work for me.
I’m going to keep this brief as to not give spoilers, but I didn’t believe in the chemistry between Ruby and Rafe. I thought Ruby accepted Rafe’s secret too easily. There was no freaking out, just acceptance. I thought there wasn’t much of a plot. And the characters felt surface level. Yes, they had a background, but I never felt like I truly knew them. I did, however, like the setting and how she built this world. Hopefully, the rest of the series is much better.
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
I’m going to keep this brief as to not give spoilers, but I didn’t believe in the chemistry between Ruby and Rafe. I thought Ruby accepted Rafe’s secret too easily. There was no freaking out, just acceptance. I thought there wasn’t much of a plot. And the characters felt surface level. Yes, they had a background, but I never felt like I truly knew them. I did, however, like the setting and how she built this world. Hopefully, the rest of the series is much better.
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
tbp
April 5, 2026Looking forward to see how this Melissa McTernan book (A Curse of Blood and Wolves) is going to be Laurie Gilmore’d! 🍎🐺
July 29, 2026
Communication was their greatest enemy
August 5, 2026
04.08.2026
Essentially a temu version of Bride
Essentially a temu version of Bride
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Laurie Gilmore has had a successful run with Dream Harbor, her cozy, small town contemporary romance series. Now, she is adding a fantastical twist to her familiar formula with Maple Hollow, entering the world of small town romantasy and fairytale retellings.
Big Bad Wolf ntroduces Ruby Bellerose, our small-town heroine, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she meets the mysterious Rafe. The attraction between them is immediate, but several obstacles stand in their way, particularly Rafe’s self-loathing and the mysterious visitors who have recently arrived in town.
After finishing the book and taking some time to sit with it, I realized that separating Maple Hollow from Dream Harbor is essential to appreciating this new series on its own terms. This is not simply Dream Harbor with magical elements added; Gilmore is clearly experimenting with a different atmosphere, mythology, and style of romance. Overall, I think she has created a promising foundation for her venture into romantasy.
The Little Red Riding Hood inspiration is easy to recognize, although the setting reminded me less of a traditional fairy tale and more of the show Once Upon a Time. Ruby’s personality occasionally brought to mind OUAT’s interpretation of the character, while Maple Hollow has that same small-town quality in which everyone is connected, involved in one another’s lives, and potentially hiding something. Although Maple Hollow is not quite as whimsical, it carries a similar combination of familiar small-town charm and underlying magic.
The romance develops very quickly, and I personally would have preferred more time for Ruby and Rafe’s connection to unfold. Because their relationship progresses so rapidly, some of Ruby’s reactions to the later revelations felt surprisingly simple. In those moments, I found myself relating more closely to Ruby’s twin sister and her response to everything happening around them. A few detail (such as the similarity between the names Ruby and Scarlet) also took me out of the story at times. However, the larger subplot became increasingly intriguing, especially as the secondary characters and the mysteries surrounding Maple Hollow began to take center stage. By the end, I had so many questions about the town, its residents, and what Gilmore is preparing to reveal next. That cliffhanger genuinely left me gasping and immediately made me curious about the continuation of the story.
Overall, Big Bad Wolf is an ambitious and promising beginning to Laurie Gilmore’s new series. While the central romance had a few rocky moments for me, the magical setting, developing mythology, and secondary characters offer plenty of possibilities for future installments. I am especially interested in the characters expected to lead the next book, and I would absolutely like to return to Maple Hollow to discover where their story, and the larger mystery, goes next.
Big Bad Wolf ntroduces Ruby Bellerose, our small-town heroine, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she meets the mysterious Rafe. The attraction between them is immediate, but several obstacles stand in their way, particularly Rafe’s self-loathing and the mysterious visitors who have recently arrived in town.
After finishing the book and taking some time to sit with it, I realized that separating Maple Hollow from Dream Harbor is essential to appreciating this new series on its own terms. This is not simply Dream Harbor with magical elements added; Gilmore is clearly experimenting with a different atmosphere, mythology, and style of romance. Overall, I think she has created a promising foundation for her venture into romantasy.
The Little Red Riding Hood inspiration is easy to recognize, although the setting reminded me less of a traditional fairy tale and more of the show Once Upon a Time. Ruby’s personality occasionally brought to mind OUAT’s interpretation of the character, while Maple Hollow has that same small-town quality in which everyone is connected, involved in one another’s lives, and potentially hiding something. Although Maple Hollow is not quite as whimsical, it carries a similar combination of familiar small-town charm and underlying magic.
The romance develops very quickly, and I personally would have preferred more time for Ruby and Rafe’s connection to unfold. Because their relationship progresses so rapidly, some of Ruby’s reactions to the later revelations felt surprisingly simple. In those moments, I found myself relating more closely to Ruby’s twin sister and her response to everything happening around them. A few detail (such as the similarity between the names Ruby and Scarlet) also took me out of the story at times. However, the larger subplot became increasingly intriguing, especially as the secondary characters and the mysteries surrounding Maple Hollow began to take center stage. By the end, I had so many questions about the town, its residents, and what Gilmore is preparing to reveal next. That cliffhanger genuinely left me gasping and immediately made me curious about the continuation of the story.
Overall, Big Bad Wolf is an ambitious and promising beginning to Laurie Gilmore’s new series. While the central romance had a few rocky moments for me, the magical setting, developing mythology, and secondary characters offer plenty of possibilities for future installments. I am especially interested in the characters expected to lead the next book, and I would absolutely like to return to Maple Hollow to discover where their story, and the larger mystery, goes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this book as ARC from NetGalley. I am not really of fan of fantasy romance but let me say this book hooked me and didn't let me go. The FMC works as a bartender in this small town. One night this tall broody man walks in looking for her boss. The MMC is a "woodworker" who has an Etsy shop making tables. From the first moment their eyes collided the FMC felt an attraction at the same time an awareness of him. The MMC felt a pull towards her that he didn't know what to do with himself. He started stalking her home when she would leave the bar at night while she walked through the forest. He slowly made his way to picking her up from her and taking her to her house. At home the FMC has an identical sister who is going through episodes of dissociation and doesn't know come back quickly sometimes she does. Her sister no longer works as a teacher but stays at home all day. One night as the FMC is walking home she is approached by a man who then charges to her and changes into a wolf before her eyes. All the stories that the town talked about there being wolves is actually true. Another wolf comes out of nowhere and attacks the other wolf who charged towards her. The wolf who saved her is injured and laying on the ground. The FMC enlists the help of her BFF to help her drag him to the garage. In the morning the wolf is no longer there but her nightly ride from work. The MMC comes clean with the FMC about what he is and that doesn't deter the FMC at all. She still has her feelings for him. Turns out her BFF is also gifted special powers that she can control the weather. The MMC asks his little brother to help look after the FMCs sister while they go talk to the pack which is lead by the MMCs older brother. During this time, the FMC and MMC have had moments but haven't gone all the way. The MMC knows that the FMC is his mate but doesn't want her to be in danger since she is only "human" and doesn't want something to happen to her because of what he is. After they come back from visiting his brother up north they finally give in but the MMC again pushes the FMC away. They separate and they are both miserable and the FMC has now told the MMC that she knows she is his mate and that she doesn't care he is a wolf. The FMCs sister now knows what the MMC due to his little brother changing infront of her so she is somewhat freaking out and doesn't want to talk about it. The book ends on a cliff hanger! The FMC sister is gone! But where?? Did the Highlander kidnap her for her ability to see things??
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher, for the eARC.
I don't even know where to begin with this review because I loved this book so much.
Ever since I picked up *The Pumpkin Spice Café*, Laurie Gilmore has been one of my auto-buy authors. There's just something about the way she writes that completely pulls me in. Her characters feel like people you'd want to know, her small towns feel like places you'd want to move to, and every book leaves me with the biggest smile on my face.
So when I found out she was writing a paranormal werewolf romance I literally ran to Amazon to preorder it.
And then I saw it on NetGalley.
And then I got approved.
Let's just say there may have been actual screaming involved. And possibly a few happy tears.
Big Bad Wolf was everything I had hoped it would be and more.
Ruby was such an incredible heroine. Fierce, stubborn, fiercely protective of her sister, and completely unapologetic about who she was. I loved how fearless she could be and how she never backed down, even when common sense probably suggested she should.
And Rafe, my dear, amazing Rafe. He was exactly the kind of hero I can't help falling for. Quiet, broken, protective, carrying far too much on his shoulders, yet still so gentle underneath it all. Every scene with him made me love him a little bit more.
But what truly made this book shine was the connection between Ruby and Rafe. The yearning was absolutely exquisite. Every glance, every conversation, every moment they spent circling each other had me completely invested. Laurie Gilmore knows exactly how to write emotional tension, and I soaked up every second of it.
I also adored Maple Hollow itself. The found family, the close-knit community, the magical atmosphere - it all made the town feel alive. I wanted to pack my bags and move there immediately.
Honestly, there aren't enough words to explain how much I loved this book. It was magical, romantic, emotional, mysterious, and impossible to put down.
And that ending??? Laurie Gilmore, you absolutely cannot end a book like that and expect me to wait patiently. Because now I need Lena's story. I also need Callie's story. I need every single book set in Maple Hollow.
This is, without a doubt, one of my favorite books of the year. 🐺🌙🤍
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher, for the eARC.
I don't even know where to begin with this review because I loved this book so much.
Ever since I picked up *The Pumpkin Spice Café*, Laurie Gilmore has been one of my auto-buy authors. There's just something about the way she writes that completely pulls me in. Her characters feel like people you'd want to know, her small towns feel like places you'd want to move to, and every book leaves me with the biggest smile on my face.
So when I found out she was writing a paranormal werewolf romance I literally ran to Amazon to preorder it.
And then I saw it on NetGalley.
And then I got approved.
Let's just say there may have been actual screaming involved. And possibly a few happy tears.
Big Bad Wolf was everything I had hoped it would be and more.
Ruby was such an incredible heroine. Fierce, stubborn, fiercely protective of her sister, and completely unapologetic about who she was. I loved how fearless she could be and how she never backed down, even when common sense probably suggested she should.
And Rafe, my dear, amazing Rafe. He was exactly the kind of hero I can't help falling for. Quiet, broken, protective, carrying far too much on his shoulders, yet still so gentle underneath it all. Every scene with him made me love him a little bit more.
But what truly made this book shine was the connection between Ruby and Rafe. The yearning was absolutely exquisite. Every glance, every conversation, every moment they spent circling each other had me completely invested. Laurie Gilmore knows exactly how to write emotional tension, and I soaked up every second of it.
I also adored Maple Hollow itself. The found family, the close-knit community, the magical atmosphere - it all made the town feel alive. I wanted to pack my bags and move there immediately.
Honestly, there aren't enough words to explain how much I loved this book. It was magical, romantic, emotional, mysterious, and impossible to put down.
And that ending??? Laurie Gilmore, you absolutely cannot end a book like that and expect me to wait patiently. Because now I need Lena's story. I also need Callie's story. I need every single book set in Maple Hollow.
This is, without a doubt, one of my favorite books of the year. 🐺🌙🤍
July 31, 2026
4.25✨ Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for sending me an ARC of Big Bad Wolf in exchange for an honest review.
Laurie Gilmore writes paranormal romance?! Say less. I am OBSESSED with werewolves and this did not disappoint.
Set in quirky small town Maple Hollow, Maine, Big Bad Wolf follows barmaid Ruby, who lives her life on the outskirts. She’s never quite felt that she fits in to her life in this weird and wonderful place, and keeping her unwell twin sister safe is about the only thing breaking up the monotony.
Enter Rafe, a mysterious, brooding woodsman who’s new in town. Ruby is drawn to him from their very first meeting and she can’t seem to keep her eyes (or imagination!) off him. And wouldn’t you know, Rafe can’t seem to stay away from her either. Perfect! Other than the pesky, teeny weeny little secret Rafe is keeping and all the rumours around town about what lurks in the woods, nothing can keep them apart..
This was so cosy and silly and horny and I loved it!! Exactly what I needed when I picked it up, I was pleasantly surprised by just how much I enjoyed it.
Ruby is an icon, a legend, she IS the moment. I adore her. She takes no shit, she goes after what she wants, she’s not afraid of being abrasive OR vulnerable…honestly what isn’t to like. Her loyalty and her love for her people, ugh she is wonderful.
Rafe, you big broody beast. I found him to be a bit frustrating, his constant flip flopping over what he could/couldn’t allow himself to have. SHE IS BEING OPEN AND HONEST PLS TRUST HER TO STAND IN HER TRUTH! He was possessive (hot), obsessive (hot), feral (hot) and PATHETIC for his woman (hottest) though, so I forgive.
I wasn’t expecting this to end on a cliffhanger, obviously I am now frothing at the mouth to see where this goes! And I want books about all of our supporting cast of characters please, everyone in this town deserves sunshine 🌞
This was such a cosy little delight, and you will love this if you enjoy: quirky small towns, quirkier small town residents, sisterhood, spice, paranormal (? Monster? Idk how we classify this) romance, feral men, yearning, men who LOOOOVE to eat, grumpy MMCs, fated mates, forced proximity…. The list is endless!
Laurie Gilmore writes paranormal romance?! Say less. I am OBSESSED with werewolves and this did not disappoint.
Set in quirky small town Maple Hollow, Maine, Big Bad Wolf follows barmaid Ruby, who lives her life on the outskirts. She’s never quite felt that she fits in to her life in this weird and wonderful place, and keeping her unwell twin sister safe is about the only thing breaking up the monotony.
Enter Rafe, a mysterious, brooding woodsman who’s new in town. Ruby is drawn to him from their very first meeting and she can’t seem to keep her eyes (or imagination!) off him. And wouldn’t you know, Rafe can’t seem to stay away from her either. Perfect! Other than the pesky, teeny weeny little secret Rafe is keeping and all the rumours around town about what lurks in the woods, nothing can keep them apart..
This was so cosy and silly and horny and I loved it!! Exactly what I needed when I picked it up, I was pleasantly surprised by just how much I enjoyed it.
Ruby is an icon, a legend, she IS the moment. I adore her. She takes no shit, she goes after what she wants, she’s not afraid of being abrasive OR vulnerable…honestly what isn’t to like. Her loyalty and her love for her people, ugh she is wonderful.
Rafe, you big broody beast. I found him to be a bit frustrating, his constant flip flopping over what he could/couldn’t allow himself to have. SHE IS BEING OPEN AND HONEST PLS TRUST HER TO STAND IN HER TRUTH! He was possessive (hot), obsessive (hot), feral (hot) and PATHETIC for his woman (hottest) though, so I forgive.
I wasn’t expecting this to end on a cliffhanger, obviously I am now frothing at the mouth to see where this goes! And I want books about all of our supporting cast of characters please, everyone in this town deserves sunshine 🌞
This was such a cosy little delight, and you will love this if you enjoy: quirky small towns, quirkier small town residents, sisterhood, spice, paranormal (? Monster? Idk how we classify this) romance, feral men, yearning, men who LOOOOVE to eat, grumpy MMCs, fated mates, forced proximity…. The list is endless!
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