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The View Between Us: A Small Town Romance with Secrets and Slow Burn Tension
One photographer on assignment. One woman guarding her small-town world. One unexpected connection that could change everything.
When traveling photographer Brock Wilder arrives in Hemlock Grove to capture its hidden beauty, he’s prepared for waterfalls, wildlife, and solitude—not Blair Cole, the fiercely capable outdoor guide who knows every trail, every danger, and every secret tucked into the mountains.
What begins as reluctant companionship deepens into something neither of them trust, belonging, and the kind of slow-burn, small-town romance that feels like coming home.
But Hemlock Grove has its own history…
And not all of it wants to stay buried.
Perfect for fans of small towns, found family, emotional chemistry, and slow-burn romance with real depth.
Brock Wilder thrives on movement—the next job, the next flight, the next sunrise seen through a camera lens. When he’s assigned to photograph the hidden gems of Hemlock Highlands, the quiet Appalachian town of Hemlock Grove feels like nothing more than another stop on the map.
Until he meets Blair Cole.
Blair has built her life around this land—running her outdoor adventure business, caring for her close-knit community, and protecting the places that shaped her family for generations. Brock is a temporary guest. And she intends to keep it that way.
But the mountains have a way of drawing people together.
From sunrise hikes and backroad trails to late-night conversations and the soft glow of the Rusty Bean, Brock finds himself pulled deeper into Blair’s world…and into feelings he never expected. As they navigate chemistry, trust, and their wildly different lifestyles, an unsettling discovery in the woods stirs up old tensions—testing the fragile bond forming between them.
With the town watching, families weighing in, and secrets rising to the surface, Brock and Blair must decide whether what they’ve found is only temporary…
or the beginning of a future worth staying for.
Emotional, atmospheric, and deeply romantic—The View Between Us is a journey into love, healing, and finding home in the most unexpected place.
Heat Level: 🌶🌶🌶
This story includes soft open-door, on-page intimacy written with emotional depth and non-explicit language. Guaranteed happily-ever-after.
When traveling photographer Brock Wilder arrives in Hemlock Grove to capture its hidden beauty, he’s prepared for waterfalls, wildlife, and solitude—not Blair Cole, the fiercely capable outdoor guide who knows every trail, every danger, and every secret tucked into the mountains.
What begins as reluctant companionship deepens into something neither of them trust, belonging, and the kind of slow-burn, small-town romance that feels like coming home.
But Hemlock Grove has its own history…
And not all of it wants to stay buried.
Perfect for fans of small towns, found family, emotional chemistry, and slow-burn romance with real depth.
Brock Wilder thrives on movement—the next job, the next flight, the next sunrise seen through a camera lens. When he’s assigned to photograph the hidden gems of Hemlock Highlands, the quiet Appalachian town of Hemlock Grove feels like nothing more than another stop on the map.
Until he meets Blair Cole.
Blair has built her life around this land—running her outdoor adventure business, caring for her close-knit community, and protecting the places that shaped her family for generations. Brock is a temporary guest. And she intends to keep it that way.
But the mountains have a way of drawing people together.
From sunrise hikes and backroad trails to late-night conversations and the soft glow of the Rusty Bean, Brock finds himself pulled deeper into Blair’s world…and into feelings he never expected. As they navigate chemistry, trust, and their wildly different lifestyles, an unsettling discovery in the woods stirs up old tensions—testing the fragile bond forming between them.
With the town watching, families weighing in, and secrets rising to the surface, Brock and Blair must decide whether what they’ve found is only temporary…
or the beginning of a future worth staying for.
Emotional, atmospheric, and deeply romantic—The View Between Us is a journey into love, healing, and finding home in the most unexpected place.
Heat Level: 🌶🌶🌶
This story includes soft open-door, on-page intimacy written with emotional depth and non-explicit language. Guaranteed happily-ever-after.
351 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 24, 2026
About the author
Lia Bradford
4 books25 followersLia Bradford writes feel-good contemporary romance set in small towns and sun-soaked tropical escapes, filled with sharp banter, emotional depth, and the kind of chemistry that lingers long after the last page.
Her stories blend humor, heart, and soft open-door intimacy, written with emotional richness and non-explicit language. She writes connection-forward love stories — the kind where longing builds slowly, tension simmers, and falling in love feels both inevitable and earned, always leading to a deeply satisfying happily-ever-after.
When she’s not writing, Lia can usually be found judging new towns by their coffee, traveling to tropical escapes whenever she can, and spending long afternoons in the pool with her family. She writes between a full life in Ohio and daydreams of someday trading snow boots for sandy beaches.
Her stories blend humor, heart, and soft open-door intimacy, written with emotional richness and non-explicit language. She writes connection-forward love stories — the kind where longing builds slowly, tension simmers, and falling in love feels both inevitable and earned, always leading to a deeply satisfying happily-ever-after.
When she’s not writing, Lia can usually be found judging new towns by their coffee, traveling to tropical escapes whenever she can, and spending long afternoons in the pool with her family. She writes between a full life in Ohio and daydreams of someday trading snow boots for sandy beaches.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 14, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you for the ARC Lia!
This story gives you that warm, cozy, small town feel. It’s like a Hallmark movie, but with better characters. Both the characters seem real, like they could be your friends. Also, you get a little bit of family mystery as well which is a nice little touch.
I loved Blair so much. She is that smart, focused, self made girl who knows what she wants. She’s a strong willed woman who does not come off as too much. She’s is just the right amount of no nonsense and soft and caring.
Brock is that artsy photographer guy who breezes into town for an assignment. I enjoyed the way his character was written. The way he falls in love with the small town (and obviously Blair) is sweet, romantic, respectful and swoony.
As always with me, let’s talk about spice. There is no actually spice in this book (it’s eluded to and the slow burn build up is great!). Really, it doesn’t need all the graphic spice we all like to indulge in. This book is well written and I think it’s the perfect cozy book to let your romantic heart soar.
Thank you for the ARC Lia!
This story gives you that warm, cozy, small town feel. It’s like a Hallmark movie, but with better characters. Both the characters seem real, like they could be your friends. Also, you get a little bit of family mystery as well which is a nice little touch.
I loved Blair so much. She is that smart, focused, self made girl who knows what she wants. She’s a strong willed woman who does not come off as too much. She’s is just the right amount of no nonsense and soft and caring.
Brock is that artsy photographer guy who breezes into town for an assignment. I enjoyed the way his character was written. The way he falls in love with the small town (and obviously Blair) is sweet, romantic, respectful and swoony.
As always with me, let’s talk about spice. There is no actually spice in this book (it’s eluded to and the slow burn build up is great!). Really, it doesn’t need all the graphic spice we all like to indulge in. This book is well written and I think it’s the perfect cozy book to let your romantic heart soar.
March 29, 2026
l loved every minute!
I was given a chance to read this book as an ARC reader. I am so thankful for that opportunity.
This book was full of a quiet, and sweet romance that was very refreshing. Thrown in the mix was a little family mystery which I enjoyed.
I recommend this book to anyone wanting to read a tender love story.
I was given a chance to read this book as an ARC reader. I am so thankful for that opportunity.
This book was full of a quiet, and sweet romance that was very refreshing. Thrown in the mix was a little family mystery which I enjoyed.
I recommend this book to anyone wanting to read a tender love story.
March 26, 2026
This was such a sweet small town story! I loved how it was a filled with very little angst, but instead with growth and love. The main character Blair is so sweet, and I love how devoted she was to her family and to her town. She was incredibly smart and I loved how she worked together with Brock on the museum. Brock is a photographer who was supposed to be just passing through, but of course falls in love with the town and it’s people. I liked how both Blair and Brock communicated so effectively, and there were no miscommunications on how they both felt. The secret that Blair was keeping was quickly exposed, and it was made clear that Brock understood why she kept it in the first place.
I also loved how the town and the surrounding land were described. The caverns and waterfalls sounded so beautiful, and I could picture it so well. I really enjoyed the closed door aspect of this romance because we were able to focus more on the plot and the characters. This was a really relaxing, fun book and I will definitely be reading the next one in the series!
Thank you Lia Bradford for letting me read this as an ARC. The views are completely my own.
I also loved how the town and the surrounding land were described. The caverns and waterfalls sounded so beautiful, and I could picture it so well. I really enjoyed the closed door aspect of this romance because we were able to focus more on the plot and the characters. This was a really relaxing, fun book and I will definitely be reading the next one in the series!
Thank you Lia Bradford for letting me read this as an ARC. The views are completely my own.
May 11, 2026
This was just a feel good book. The amount of description was exemplary in that Lia used similes and metaphors in a perfect way that truly had your senses hearing, smelling, seeing, feeling, and tasting through her words. Blair and Brock were both hesitant people but both felt the strong magnetic bond between each other. But nothing was rushed. Thoughts and feelings were analyzed and every move was intentional.
Intentional. A word that was used in this story a lot. To some it may have felt redundant, but to me it was needed. After reading so much dark romance and impulsivities of those characters, it was a breath of fresh air to find two people who didn’t let passion or magnetism dictate their choices.
I also like the mystery of the shack and of the mystery man that seemed to know too much. It kept me guessing about his identity. I guessed who he was, but then second guessed myself when he was digging through records. I love that this made for more than one HEA.
Banter, I loved the banter between Brock and Blair. I also love the banter between the family and friends of Hemlock Grove. I particularly love the booze cruse scenes. I could see it and imagine it all and it had me giggling at 1am.
Intentional. A word that was used in this story a lot. To some it may have felt redundant, but to me it was needed. After reading so much dark romance and impulsivities of those characters, it was a breath of fresh air to find two people who didn’t let passion or magnetism dictate their choices.
I also like the mystery of the shack and of the mystery man that seemed to know too much. It kept me guessing about his identity. I guessed who he was, but then second guessed myself when he was digging through records. I love that this made for more than one HEA.
Banter, I loved the banter between Brock and Blair. I also love the banter between the family and friends of Hemlock Grove. I particularly love the booze cruse scenes. I could see it and imagine it all and it had me giggling at 1am.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the ARC of this sweet, cozy small-town romance. The author brought the town to life with such rich description that I could easily picture myself there.
The characters all felt authentic and engaging. I genuinely wanted to be part of their world and their day to day lives.
Blair is a strong, intelligent woman, and her deep love for her town and the surrounding nature was really prevalent on the page.
Brock was incredibly sweet and caring. He may have come to town for a photography job, but it was clear he stayed for something much more meaningful. both the town itself and Blair.
The romance leans more on the soft, slow burn, cozy side. While there is some buildup, the spice happens off page.
At times, a few details felt repetitive, but it didn’t take away too much from the overall experience. I also really enjoyed the added layer of the family secrets and mystery. It brought a subtle sense of suspense that kept things interesting.
The characters all felt authentic and engaging. I genuinely wanted to be part of their world and their day to day lives.
Blair is a strong, intelligent woman, and her deep love for her town and the surrounding nature was really prevalent on the page.
Brock was incredibly sweet and caring. He may have come to town for a photography job, but it was clear he stayed for something much more meaningful. both the town itself and Blair.
The romance leans more on the soft, slow burn, cozy side. While there is some buildup, the spice happens off page.
At times, a few details felt repetitive, but it didn’t take away too much from the overall experience. I also really enjoyed the added layer of the family secrets and mystery. It brought a subtle sense of suspense that kept things interesting.
March 24, 2026
The View Between Us is a beautifully emotional and engaging story that pulls you in from the very beginning and stays with you long after.
What stood out most to me was the connection between the characters. Their relationship feels genuine and deeply emotional, making it easy to become fully invested in their journey.
The story balances heartfelt moments with meaningful growth, creating a reading experience that feels both immersive and impactful.
For me, this easily earns 5 ⭐ because it was emotional, engaging, and impossible to put down.
This is a 5 ⭐ for me because:
• the emotional connection between the characters is strong
• the story feels heartfelt and meaningful
• the character growth adds depth
• the story keeps you fully invested
Emotional. Heartfelt. Captivating.
Read this book if you like:
• emotional romance
• character-driven stories
• heartfelt and meaningful connections
• stories that stay with you after finishing.
What stood out most to me was the connection between the characters. Their relationship feels genuine and deeply emotional, making it easy to become fully invested in their journey.
The story balances heartfelt moments with meaningful growth, creating a reading experience that feels both immersive and impactful.
For me, this easily earns 5 ⭐ because it was emotional, engaging, and impossible to put down.
This is a 5 ⭐ for me because:
• the emotional connection between the characters is strong
• the story feels heartfelt and meaningful
• the character growth adds depth
• the story keeps you fully invested
Emotional. Heartfelt. Captivating.
Read this book if you like:
• emotional romance
• character-driven stories
• heartfelt and meaningful connections
• stories that stay with you after finishing.
March 25, 2026
Thank you so much for the ARC Lia!
The View Between Us by Lia Bradford is a great pick for readers who love character-driven romances and emotional connections. This closed-door romance focuses more on the characters’ growth and relationship than spice, which was a refreshing change.
Blair is a strong, independent business owner, while Brock is an artsy photographer with a softer side. Their personalities balance each other beautifully, and watching their slow-burn romance unfold was one of my favorite parts of the story.
Set in the charming town of Hemlock Grove, the cozy small-town setting almost feels like it belongs in a Hallmark movie. Add in a hint of mystery and you get a story that’s equal parts heartwarming and engaging.
If you enjoy sweet romance, small-town settings, and emotional character development, this one is worth adding to your TBR.
The View Between Us by Lia Bradford is a great pick for readers who love character-driven romances and emotional connections. This closed-door romance focuses more on the characters’ growth and relationship than spice, which was a refreshing change.
Blair is a strong, independent business owner, while Brock is an artsy photographer with a softer side. Their personalities balance each other beautifully, and watching their slow-burn romance unfold was one of my favorite parts of the story.
Set in the charming town of Hemlock Grove, the cozy small-town setting almost feels like it belongs in a Hallmark movie. Add in a hint of mystery and you get a story that’s equal parts heartwarming and engaging.
If you enjoy sweet romance, small-town settings, and emotional character development, this one is worth adding to your TBR.
March 24, 2026
This was such a fun, feel-good small-town romance with a cozy community vibe that completely pulled me in. From the coffee shop (The Rusty Bean) to trivia night at Turner’s Pub, the setting feels warm, familiar, and full of life.
Add in a Jeep named Dolly, some hilarious karaoke moments, a touch of mystery, and just the right amount of romance, and you’ve got a story that truly sizzles. Brock and Blair have great chemistry, and their dynamic kept me turning the pages.
If you enjoy small-town romances with heart, humor, and a little intrigue, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Add in a Jeep named Dolly, some hilarious karaoke moments, a touch of mystery, and just the right amount of romance, and you’ve got a story that truly sizzles. Brock and Blair have great chemistry, and their dynamic kept me turning the pages.
If you enjoy small-town romances with heart, humor, and a little intrigue, this one is definitely worth picking up.
March 26, 2026
If you like cozy love stories with Hallmark vibes then this book is for you, set in a charming small town in Ohio we meet Blair and Brock who you fall in love love with right away. Their story is about instant connection and building a foundation. It’s a sweet love story with beautifully written characters and a town you can’t help but fall in love with . I laughed, I cried and at times I shouted out loud. This story brings out all the feels but they’re all good feelings. I for one loved The View Between Us and I am looking forward to reading more of this heartwarming series in the future ❤️
March 25, 2026
This is such a cozy small town romance.
Blair Cole is a girl who grew up in Hemlock Grove and is a very outdoors person...she even owns a whole outdoors center.
Brock Wilder is a landscape photographer who came to Hemlock for spring to capture pictures for his job.
Blair was very curious about him from the start as Brock with her. You get to watch this very sweet love story play out and it was beautiful. very good book
Blair Cole is a girl who grew up in Hemlock Grove and is a very outdoors person...she even owns a whole outdoors center.
Brock Wilder is a landscape photographer who came to Hemlock for spring to capture pictures for his job.
Blair was very curious about him from the start as Brock with her. You get to watch this very sweet love story play out and it was beautiful. very good book
March 25, 2026
I had the privilege of reading an ARC for this book. It is a wonderful read. It feels like a Hallmark movie. It’s beautifully written and pulls you in from the start. The relationship between Blair and Brock is build with the perfect amount of tension. The romance is beautiful and heart warming. I loved every second of it. It’s good clean romance at its finest.
March 26, 2026
Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity in exchange for an honest review.
The View Between Us is a 3.5/5 stars for me. IBrock and Blair’s story was a sweet story but it just needed something more (without increasing the length). There wasn’t anything happen that I hadn’t already predicted and it felt long and drawn out for the plot.
The View Between Us is a 3.5/5 stars for me. IBrock and Blair’s story was a sweet story but it just needed something more (without increasing the length). There wasn’t anything happen that I hadn’t already predicted and it felt long and drawn out for the plot.
March 19, 2026
Hemlock Grove is a small town, cozy, romance with a little family mystery. Blair and Brock have great chemistry together and loved reading their story. This is a great book and I would recommend it if you looking for a cozy romance book.
March 25, 2026
This is a book that stays with you. The main characters are real. What you see is what you get. It shows that love has his own way to show up unexpected. The story is about Love, Family, hard work and meanwhile you don't forget your self. If you love a good romance, this is the right book to read.
March 26, 2026
Meet Blair and Brock. She’s soft yet strong and independent. He’s a photographer in town for a short time. This story has great line and it quickly sucks you in. Love how they interact. How the small town and hints of spice lead to a great story. New author for me, instant fan. Stars are 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.
March 28, 2026
ARC Review:
This was such a sweet and cozy book. The definition of a small town romance with a bit of found family. The world building is phenomenal! You can definitely feel yourself in Hemlock Grove the way she writes.
This was such a sweet and cozy book. The definition of a small town romance with a bit of found family. The world building is phenomenal! You can definitely feel yourself in Hemlock Grove the way she writes.
May 18, 2026
This was indie author Lia Bradford’s debut novel, and she did such a great job of creating the perfect cozy, cute small-town setting. In fact, I could totally see this being a Hallmark movie. I felt like I was wrapped in a warm, cozy blanket the entire time I read it.
I’m not used to clean open-door romance, but this was actually refreshing compared to the books I normally read. I was really able to slow down and focus on the little moments, which is something I’m trying to do more in life in general. I loved how those small details ended up connecting Brock and Blair throughout the story. It was fun watching them work together, and Brock was the perfect golden retriever MMC. This also reminded me a bit of Laurie Gilmore’s Dream Harbor romance series.
I also really loved the way she describes the settings. For example: “but it had good bones: hardwood floors worn by decades of footsteps, windows that caught the afternoon light and poured it across the small living room like honey.”
Another favorite quote of mine was: “no music. No noise. Just wind and space. If I stayed silent long enough, maybe I’d hear answers to questions I’d never asked out loud.”
I would absolutely read the second book, and I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys clean, open-door romance with a super cute small-town setting, likable characters, and happy endings.
I’m not used to clean open-door romance, but this was actually refreshing compared to the books I normally read. I was really able to slow down and focus on the little moments, which is something I’m trying to do more in life in general. I loved how those small details ended up connecting Brock and Blair throughout the story. It was fun watching them work together, and Brock was the perfect golden retriever MMC. This also reminded me a bit of Laurie Gilmore’s Dream Harbor romance series.
I also really loved the way she describes the settings. For example: “but it had good bones: hardwood floors worn by decades of footsteps, windows that caught the afternoon light and poured it across the small living room like honey.”
Another favorite quote of mine was: “no music. No noise. Just wind and space. If I stayed silent long enough, maybe I’d hear answers to questions I’d never asked out loud.”
I would absolutely read the second book, and I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys clean, open-door romance with a super cute small-town setting, likable characters, and happy endings.
May 4, 2026
love love love this book
I just finished this book and all I wanna do is reread it again ! I can’t wait for book 2
I just finished this book and all I wanna do is reread it again ! I can’t wait for book 2
April 15, 2026
Such a wonderfully sweet romance. I was sucked into this beautiful space from the beginning. It sounds like an amazing town to live in.
Blair and Brock were a fabulous match and their communication was on point. I loved their maturity and lack of miscommunication which can be a very annoying trope when you just wish people would talk to each other! So this was very refreshing. The characters were well written and made me connect with them even more.
I can’t wait to see what else happens in Hemlock Grove!
I received this book as an ARC and I’m leaving my honest review
Blair and Brock were a fabulous match and their communication was on point. I loved their maturity and lack of miscommunication which can be a very annoying trope when you just wish people would talk to each other! So this was very refreshing. The characters were well written and made me connect with them even more.
I can’t wait to see what else happens in Hemlock Grove!
I received this book as an ARC and I’m leaving my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just finished this book and absolutely loved it! it was such a fun and easy read that I found myself not wanting to put it down. The story flowed really well, the characters were engaging, and it kept me interested from beginning to end. It's the kind of book you pick up thinking you'll read a few pages... and suddenly you're halfway through. Definitely one of those reads that leaves you wishing there was more when you get to the last page. Highly recommend if you're looking for something enjoyable, light, and hard to put down!
May 1, 2026
ARC Read - I loved the premise of this book love finds you in the strangest (or most beautiful) of places when you’re not looking. Brock & Blair are orbiting in their own worlds when they collide. From moment one they were attracted to each other. The he settings in this book were unbelievably well described, I felt I was looking through the lens of Brock’s camera. The he love story was beautiful, captivating and real. The fear and hesitation palpable. I truly felt part of the town and drawn in by the side characters as well as the main characters. There was very little spice but even this smut lover was entranced.
March 26, 2026
I stumbled upon a beautiful chance to read the ARC of this book. To be honest, it felt like reading my own romance story—just from another perspective. A slow-burn, laid-back love set in a small town like Hemlock Grove.
What made me eager to keep going, and excited to discover each chapter, is how Lia Bradford intertwines the story of Brock Wilder and Blair Cole. It feels warm, natural, and truly atmospheric. The wordplay in this book made me imagine those quiet, intimate moments—a hidden trail behind the mountain, a small spot by the waterfall, the subtle movements of wildlife in solitude—where a radiant kind of love finds two people who weren’t even looking for it, so effortlessly.
I never knew a community-driven setting could create such a heartwarming romantic story. It feels refreshing and soul-stirring at the same time. Every conversation, every bit of banter, even the subtlest gestures between the characters feel so alive.
Although there were moments where I wished some details were explored a little longer, everything flows gently and unfolds at its own pace. It’s the kind of story that stays with you—sweet, memorable, and quietly taking its time to ripen its meaning for the reader.
Thank you, Lia, for writing such a beautiful romance. Blair and Brock truly feel real, and I’m grateful for the chance to witness their story.
What made me eager to keep going, and excited to discover each chapter, is how Lia Bradford intertwines the story of Brock Wilder and Blair Cole. It feels warm, natural, and truly atmospheric. The wordplay in this book made me imagine those quiet, intimate moments—a hidden trail behind the mountain, a small spot by the waterfall, the subtle movements of wildlife in solitude—where a radiant kind of love finds two people who weren’t even looking for it, so effortlessly.
I never knew a community-driven setting could create such a heartwarming romantic story. It feels refreshing and soul-stirring at the same time. Every conversation, every bit of banter, even the subtlest gestures between the characters feel so alive.
Although there were moments where I wished some details were explored a little longer, everything flows gently and unfolds at its own pace. It’s the kind of story that stays with you—sweet, memorable, and quietly taking its time to ripen its meaning for the reader.
Thank you, Lia, for writing such a beautiful romance. Blair and Brock truly feel real, and I’m grateful for the chance to witness their story.
May 15, 2026
Reading The View Between Us felt like stepping into a quiet mountain town where everyone knows each other, but nobody says everything out loud. Lia Bradford did such a good job creating the atmosphere of Hemlock Grove that I could almost picture the trails, coffee shops, and foggy mornings while reading. The romance between Brock and Blair was definitely a slow burn, but in the best way. Their connection felt natural instead of rushed, and I appreciated how both characters had emotional baggage that made their relationship more realistic.
Blair was probably my favorite character because she felt strong without being unrealistically perfect. Brock also had depth, especially with his struggle between always moving forward and finally wanting to belong somewhere. The chemistry between them built gradually through small moments, conversations, and trust, which made the romantic scenes feel meaningful.
I also liked that the mystery element added tension without taking over the romance completely. At times the pacing was a little slow in the middle, but overall it matched the cozy small-town feeling of the story. If you enjoy emotional romances with found family, secrets, and beautiful scenery, this book is absolutely worth reading.
Blair was probably my favorite character because she felt strong without being unrealistically perfect. Brock also had depth, especially with his struggle between always moving forward and finally wanting to belong somewhere. The chemistry between them built gradually through small moments, conversations, and trust, which made the romantic scenes feel meaningful.
I also liked that the mystery element added tension without taking over the romance completely. At times the pacing was a little slow in the middle, but overall it matched the cozy small-town feeling of the story. If you enjoy emotional romances with found family, secrets, and beautiful scenery, this book is absolutely worth reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Lia Bradford for this ARC!
Blair runs an outdoor adventure business in Hemlock Grove, where she meets Brock, a photographer exploring the area. Their meet-cute was casual but charming. Blair offers to show Brock around, introducing him to her friends, singing at a pub night, and sharing a sweet kiss after a movie. Hemlock Grove captivates Brock emotionally, and they grow closer despite her family's concerns.
Brock spends time with Blair, helps turn the old armory into a community center, and eventually falls for the town and Blair herself. After some initial resistance, her family accepts their relationship, and Brock confesses he wants to stay in Hemlock Grove permanently. They share “I love yous,” and finally reveal a family secret: the old shack has been demolished to protect the town’s privacy.
When a new tourist, Mark Ellis, arrives asking questions, Blair and her family stay vigilant. Mark, chasing a story about his grandmother Margaret Cole, reveals she survived.
I loved how Brock and Blair found their happy ending in this charming, heartfelt story set in Hemlock Grove. It’s a sweet, cozy read with a beautiful sense of community.
Blair runs an outdoor adventure business in Hemlock Grove, where she meets Brock, a photographer exploring the area. Their meet-cute was casual but charming. Blair offers to show Brock around, introducing him to her friends, singing at a pub night, and sharing a sweet kiss after a movie. Hemlock Grove captivates Brock emotionally, and they grow closer despite her family's concerns.
Brock spends time with Blair, helps turn the old armory into a community center, and eventually falls for the town and Blair herself. After some initial resistance, her family accepts their relationship, and Brock confesses he wants to stay in Hemlock Grove permanently. They share “I love yous,” and finally reveal a family secret: the old shack has been demolished to protect the town’s privacy.
When a new tourist, Mark Ellis, arrives asking questions, Blair and her family stay vigilant. Mark, chasing a story about his grandmother Margaret Cole, reveals she survived.
I loved how Brock and Blair found their happy ending in this charming, heartfelt story set in Hemlock Grove. It’s a sweet, cozy read with a beautiful sense of community.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The View Between Us really shines in its emotional depth and character development. The story takes its time in the best way, allowing the relationship between Blair and Brock to build naturally. It made every moment feel meaningful and real, it was such a beautifully written story. I found myself genuinely invested in the characters and their journey, especially as they worked through their pasts and learned to open up.
The small town setting adds such a cozy backdrop, while still allowing for moments of tension and growth that kept me engaged throughout.
If you enjoy slow burn romance with heart, strong emotional themes, and well-developed characters, this is definitely one I would recommend picking up.
I can't wait to see what happens next in Hemlock Grove!
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The small town setting adds such a cozy backdrop, while still allowing for moments of tension and growth that kept me engaged throughout.
If you enjoy slow burn romance with heart, strong emotional themes, and well-developed characters, this is definitely one I would recommend picking up.
I can't wait to see what happens next in Hemlock Grove!
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ohio Valley
Hemlock Grove is a small town in the Ohio Valley that seems to definitely carry that Midwest charm. Blair Cole is born and raised there. Wears the shirt that tells the story lol. Brock Wilder a traveling photographer drawn to Hemlock Grove with the promise of beauty and small town feels. When these two meet it starts to unravel a mystery that's been locked up tight for ages. They have no idea what fate has in store for them. With laugh out loud moments, quiet sighs, and for crying out loud tantrums bleeding through the story you are in for a great read, that will leave you feeling complete.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The View Between Us was such a delightful read. From chapter 1, I was completely immersed in the setting, and it felt so relatable that I immediately felt at home in the story. The atmosphere was vivid and welcoming, and the emotional tone made it easy to connect with the characters right away.
I loved the chemistry, the warmth of the storytelling, and how smoothly the story pulled me in. It’s the kind of book that feels comforting and engaging at the same time, with a setting that almost becomes a character of its own. Overall, this was a heartfelt and enjoyable read that kept me invested from the very beginning.
I loved the chemistry, the warmth of the storytelling, and how smoothly the story pulled me in. It’s the kind of book that feels comforting and engaging at the same time, with a setting that almost becomes a character of its own. Overall, this was a heartfelt and enjoyable read that kept me invested from the very beginning.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The View Between Us was a lovely small town romance that happened organically. Blair was the type "A" personality that had to have everything perfect and organized. Brock lived from town to town taking photographs for landscapes. Both love the outdoors, but there is also a secret that has Brock wondering about. Brock and Blair's relationship is wholesome and adorable. He falls first for the driven woman that takes care of her town. The passion they combine together makes the town a better place and puts it on the tourists radar! This is a great book, it was clean, and made me feel like I need to be out hiking more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The connection of Brock and Blair made this an easy read! They balance each other other so well Blair is focused and has lived in hemlock grove her whole life while Brock is artistic and has traveled all over. The way they communicate and navigate their world with a genuine connectione was superb.
A simple, easy love is one I think we all crave! My absolute favorite quote,
“Mom always said the person meant for you would bring out the best parts of yourself not change you, just reveal what was already there"
Hemlock grove reminds me of home! It has all the small town charm you look forward to in a romance book. Turner's pub is where I want to be!
A simple, easy love is one I think we all crave! My absolute favorite quote,
“Mom always said the person meant for you would bring out the best parts of yourself not change you, just reveal what was already there"
Hemlock grove reminds me of home! It has all the small town charm you look forward to in a romance book. Turner's pub is where I want to be!
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May 29, 2026OMG yes City boy and Brown Eyes!
Hemlock Grove has me falling in love with small town romance.
The lingering glances, slow hands and genuine respect for each other between Brock and Blair has sparks flying over coffee and trails.
Mystery, new love and genuine characters.
Love book one of this series and cant wait for the rest of the story. Lia describes the views so perfectly and builds the world of Hemlock Grove.
I want to start my mornings with a coffee from The Rusty Bean, a pastry from Honeycrumb Bakery, walking down Main St and stopping for a while just to take a moment.
Hemlock Grove has me falling in love with small town romance.
The lingering glances, slow hands and genuine respect for each other between Brock and Blair has sparks flying over coffee and trails.
Mystery, new love and genuine characters.
Love book one of this series and cant wait for the rest of the story. Lia describes the views so perfectly and builds the world of Hemlock Grove.
I want to start my mornings with a coffee from The Rusty Bean, a pastry from Honeycrumb Bakery, walking down Main St and stopping for a while just to take a moment.
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