What do you think?
Rate this book
Say Don't Go
Jackson & Piper's Book
531 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
May 16, 2026
I absolutely fell in love with this story, especially Piper and Jackson. They were honestly the cutest couple.
Their relationship starts with that perfect love/hate dynamic, and even their banter alone felt like foreplay 😂 The chemistry between them was absolutely epic, and every interaction had so much tension.
Watching them slowly build this little family together with Rowan (who was the sweetest kid ever 🥹) and Kitty, the best dog, was beyond adorable. It gave the story so much heart.
But wow… I despised Vicky. “Icky Vicky” truly deserves the title because she was the absolute worst 😤
As much as I loved Piper and Jackson, I also really enjoyed continuing on with the characters from book one and seeing more of the whole gang. And now I’m desperately waiting for Kennedy and Matt’s story 👀
This book completely hooked me from the beginning, and I genuinely didn’t want to put it down until I finished it 🥰
✨ What to expect:
👨👧 Single Dad x Nanny
💙 Best Friend’s Brother
💍 Engagement of Convenience
🏠 Forced Proximity
🌾 Small-Town Romance
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Their relationship starts with that perfect love/hate dynamic, and even their banter alone felt like foreplay 😂 The chemistry between them was absolutely epic, and every interaction had so much tension.
Watching them slowly build this little family together with Rowan (who was the sweetest kid ever 🥹) and Kitty, the best dog, was beyond adorable. It gave the story so much heart.
But wow… I despised Vicky. “Icky Vicky” truly deserves the title because she was the absolute worst 😤
As much as I loved Piper and Jackson, I also really enjoyed continuing on with the characters from book one and seeing more of the whole gang. And now I’m desperately waiting for Kennedy and Matt’s story 👀
This book completely hooked me from the beginning, and I genuinely didn’t want to put it down until I finished it 🥰
✨ What to expect:
👨👧 Single Dad x Nanny
💙 Best Friend’s Brother
💍 Engagement of Convenience
🏠 Forced Proximity
🌾 Small-Town Romance
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 15, 2026
Courtney Rae has totally sucked me into another small town romance series!!! I received my first ARC from her! I am absolutely OBSESSED with Willow Grove!! Say don’t go was the second book in the series and it pulled me in before it was even released after reading “Everything has changed” .
Once we met Piper in “Everything has Changed” I was patiently waiting for a book about her to release. Courtney handled her storyline with such care and admiration.
Don’t even get me started with how much I lovedddddd Jackson. The broody single dad trope is ✨chefs kiss ✨ and honestly 🥵🥵
The Taylor swift titles are also incredibly top tier!
Thank you for the ARC, Courtney! Can’t wait for the next in the Willow Grove book.
Once we met Piper in “Everything has Changed” I was patiently waiting for a book about her to release. Courtney handled her storyline with such care and admiration.
Don’t even get me started with how much I lovedddddd Jackson. The broody single dad trope is ✨chefs kiss ✨ and honestly 🥵🥵
The Taylor swift titles are also incredibly top tier!
Thank you for the ARC, Courtney! Can’t wait for the next in the Willow Grove book.
May 7, 2026
I am OBSESSED.
This book has my favorite enemies to lovers trope, Jackson is so grumpy I love him.
The tangled web of lies with the fake engagement STRESSED ME OUT. I was like there is no way this ends well.
But it’s fine everything is FINNNEEE. Jackson and Piper are adorable pretending it’s all fake when like, let’s be real friends 🤨.
Also, Victoria and Derek are literal super villains. They are the worst.
Overall, this was so much fun to read, I loved everything, it’s spicyyy 🔥, heartfelt, will totally destroy you emotionally. You should read it 😊.
Pick this one up when it’s out on 5/12! 📚
*Review of advanced copy received from the author.
This book has my favorite enemies to lovers trope, Jackson is so grumpy I love him.
The tangled web of lies with the fake engagement STRESSED ME OUT. I was like there is no way this ends well.
But it’s fine everything is FINNNEEE. Jackson and Piper are adorable pretending it’s all fake when like, let’s be real friends 🤨.
Also, Victoria and Derek are literal super villains. They are the worst.
Overall, this was so much fun to read, I loved everything, it’s spicyyy 🔥, heartfelt, will totally destroy you emotionally. You should read it 😊.
Pick this one up when it’s out on 5/12! 📚
*Review of advanced copy received from the author.
May 21, 2026
I love Piper and the heartwarming bond she has with Rowan, their relationship was my favorite part of book two. I had a hard time with Piper and Jackson’s love story. He was too hard on her which was undeserved, and I lost interest in them because of that.
I’m still a fan of willow grove and will read more if the series continues!
I’m still a fan of willow grove and will read more if the series continues!
Review of advance copy
Ever since Piper was introduced in the first book, I knew I needed her story. She was one of those characters who quietly steals scenes and makes you curious about everything underneath the surface. So to finally get her book and have it be this good was such a joy. Courtney truly did not disappoint.
This story had everything I love in a romance: emotional highs and lows, layered characters, real-life weight, swoony moments, found family, tension, healing, and a love story that felt earned every step of the way. It pulled me in immediately and never let go.
Piper was everything I hoped she’d be as a main character. She is warm, loving, fiercely loyal, and the kind of best friend everyone deserves. But what I loved most was getting to see the parts of her that lived beneath that sunshine. Watching Piper grow into herself, not only through her art, but in how she faced her family dynamics, her own fears, and what she truly wanted was one of the strongest parts of the book for me.
And Jackson… wow. Give me a broody single dad with a soft center every single time. He carried so much weight, but beneath all of that was someone deeply caring and steady. Piper was exactly the light he needed, and I loved the way she loved both him and Row. Their connection felt tender, messy, real, and deeply human.
One thing Courtney continues to do so well is write emotionally complex situations with care. The storyline involving Ophelia was handled with sensitivity and realism, and while I would encourage readers to check content considerations if this topic is personally difficult, I appreciated the compassion and nuance brought to it.
Also, can we talk about villains for a second? Courtney absolutely knows how to write an antagonist because Vickey and Derek had me fully invested in my dislike! They added so much tension to the story and made the emotional victories feel even sweeter.
But as much as I loved the romance, this series continues to shine because of the community surrounding it. The friend group, the town, the way everyone becomes family. It all feels so alive. These characters care for one another in a way that makes you want to stay in their world long after the final page.
Being part of Courtney’s street team has been such a fun experience, and getting to cheer on stories like this makes it even more special. She is not only a wonderful person, but such a talented author who writes with heart, depth, and authenticity.
I’m already hoping for another book in this world… because I’m not ready to say goodbye yet.
This story had everything I love in a romance: emotional highs and lows, layered characters, real-life weight, swoony moments, found family, tension, healing, and a love story that felt earned every step of the way. It pulled me in immediately and never let go.
Piper was everything I hoped she’d be as a main character. She is warm, loving, fiercely loyal, and the kind of best friend everyone deserves. But what I loved most was getting to see the parts of her that lived beneath that sunshine. Watching Piper grow into herself, not only through her art, but in how she faced her family dynamics, her own fears, and what she truly wanted was one of the strongest parts of the book for me.
And Jackson… wow. Give me a broody single dad with a soft center every single time. He carried so much weight, but beneath all of that was someone deeply caring and steady. Piper was exactly the light he needed, and I loved the way she loved both him and Row. Their connection felt tender, messy, real, and deeply human.
One thing Courtney continues to do so well is write emotionally complex situations with care. The storyline involving Ophelia was handled with sensitivity and realism, and while I would encourage readers to check content considerations if this topic is personally difficult, I appreciated the compassion and nuance brought to it.
Also, can we talk about villains for a second? Courtney absolutely knows how to write an antagonist because Vickey and Derek had me fully invested in my dislike! They added so much tension to the story and made the emotional victories feel even sweeter.
But as much as I loved the romance, this series continues to shine because of the community surrounding it. The friend group, the town, the way everyone becomes family. It all feels so alive. These characters care for one another in a way that makes you want to stay in their world long after the final page.
Being part of Courtney’s street team has been such a fun experience, and getting to cheer on stories like this makes it even more special. She is not only a wonderful person, but such a talented author who writes with heart, depth, and authenticity.
I’m already hoping for another book in this world… because I’m not ready to say goodbye yet.
May 12, 2026
If you are looking for a small-town romance series that completely steals your heart, then you need to read the Willow Grove series by Courtney Rae. Start with her first book, Everything Has Changed, because it truly sets the foundation for all of the characters and relationships you will absolutely fall in love with. Then jump right into her second book, Say You Don’t Go, releasing May 12. Trust me when I say this is a series you do not want to miss.
Courtney Rae is a phenomenal author, and one of the things I love most about her writing style is how she captures everyday real life so effortlessly. The way she writes makes Willow Grove feel real, like it’s an actual town you could drive to and meet these people yourself. Her characters feel authentic, relatable, and emotionally raw in a way that pulls you completely into their lives.
Her books give you all the feels , you will laugh, you will cry, and you will absolutely be kicking your feet and giggling through the romance scenes. The chemistry between the characters is incredible, and the spice? Absolutely toe-curling amazing.
Say You Don’t Go has everything I love in a romance: a grumpy veterinarian, sunshine energy FMC, best friend’s, close proximity, enemies-to-lovers tension, and so many funny moments that had me smiling nonstop. Piper is such a strong FMC, and honestly one of my favorite parts of the book. She snarky in the best way possible, and she always gives the same energy right back. At the same time, there’s so much depth and realness to her character that made me connect parts of her story to experiences in my own life.
That’s what makes Courtney Rae’s books stand out so much to me, the emotions, struggles, relationships, and growth all feel genuine, which makes you become so emotionally invested in their stories. Willow Grove feels like a town you never want to leave.
I cannot say enough amazing things about Courtney Rae and the stories she writes. This series has quickly become one of my favorites, and I already know I’ll be rereading these books again and again. If you love small-town romance with heart, humor, emotional depth, unforgettable characters, and amazing spice, then this is absolutely a series you need to read.
Courtney Rae is a phenomenal author, and one of the things I love most about her writing style is how she captures everyday real life so effortlessly. The way she writes makes Willow Grove feel real, like it’s an actual town you could drive to and meet these people yourself. Her characters feel authentic, relatable, and emotionally raw in a way that pulls you completely into their lives.
Her books give you all the feels , you will laugh, you will cry, and you will absolutely be kicking your feet and giggling through the romance scenes. The chemistry between the characters is incredible, and the spice? Absolutely toe-curling amazing.
Say You Don’t Go has everything I love in a romance: a grumpy veterinarian, sunshine energy FMC, best friend’s, close proximity, enemies-to-lovers tension, and so many funny moments that had me smiling nonstop. Piper is such a strong FMC, and honestly one of my favorite parts of the book. She snarky in the best way possible, and she always gives the same energy right back. At the same time, there’s so much depth and realness to her character that made me connect parts of her story to experiences in my own life.
That’s what makes Courtney Rae’s books stand out so much to me, the emotions, struggles, relationships, and growth all feel genuine, which makes you become so emotionally invested in their stories. Willow Grove feels like a town you never want to leave.
I cannot say enough amazing things about Courtney Rae and the stories she writes. This series has quickly become one of my favorites, and I already know I’ll be rereading these books again and again. If you love small-town romance with heart, humor, emotional depth, unforgettable characters, and amazing spice, then this is absolutely a series you need to read.
May 4, 2026
I was so proud of Courtney when she released Everything Has Changed last year and while seeing her make a dream come true for herself. I’m even more proud of her as she put Say Don’t Go out into the world and continues to grow her craft. This book has so many of my favorite things — a grumpy, best friend’s brother MMC, and fake engagement scheme with genuine motivations behind it, and a strong family unit supporting each other. With the most wonderful grandmother, Ophelia, at the heart of that family unit, Say Don’t Go tugs at allllllll the emotions.
I love Piper so much. She’s a strong woman even in the face of her own insecurities about her future. She never gives up and she keeps putting herself out there. She has a deeply caring heart but she also doesn’t let anyone walk all over that. She stands up for herself and she knows how to be there for others as well. There is so much to admire about Piper and I’m thrilled people will get to know her even better in this book. I also really love the stronger bond she forms with Logan’s daughter, Rowan, throughout. She has always been a part of Rowan’s life as her aunt’s best friend, but their connection is able to deepen as the relationship they share changes.
Jackson is such a great dad to his little girl, Rowan. He’s come by his grumpiness honestly with his past, especially his relationship history (Icky Vicky earns her nickname repeatedly) but he’s really a big ol’ softie deep down inside. He’s not without flaws, but he knows when he’s made mistakes and he listens to the guidance from the people around him when he’s in the wrong. Plus, he’s a vet so he’s obviously got a good heart to care for animals as well as he does.
The chemistry between Piper and Jackson was obvious in book 1 and it gets its chance to ignite throughout this book. The steaminess is on a new level with these two — the spice delivers for all involved. There’s no doubt Piper and Jackson are compatible on every level.
It is such a treat to inhabit the small town of Willow Grove and know the heart behind the story. Thank you to Courtney Rae for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I love Piper so much. She’s a strong woman even in the face of her own insecurities about her future. She never gives up and she keeps putting herself out there. She has a deeply caring heart but she also doesn’t let anyone walk all over that. She stands up for herself and she knows how to be there for others as well. There is so much to admire about Piper and I’m thrilled people will get to know her even better in this book. I also really love the stronger bond she forms with Logan’s daughter, Rowan, throughout. She has always been a part of Rowan’s life as her aunt’s best friend, but their connection is able to deepen as the relationship they share changes.
Jackson is such a great dad to his little girl, Rowan. He’s come by his grumpiness honestly with his past, especially his relationship history (Icky Vicky earns her nickname repeatedly) but he’s really a big ol’ softie deep down inside. He’s not without flaws, but he knows when he’s made mistakes and he listens to the guidance from the people around him when he’s in the wrong. Plus, he’s a vet so he’s obviously got a good heart to care for animals as well as he does.
The chemistry between Piper and Jackson was obvious in book 1 and it gets its chance to ignite throughout this book. The steaminess is on a new level with these two — the spice delivers for all involved. There’s no doubt Piper and Jackson are compatible on every level.
It is such a treat to inhabit the small town of Willow Grove and know the heart behind the story. Thank you to Courtney Rae for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I want to live in Willow Grove. Truly.
Say Don't Go is the second book in Courtney Rae's Willow Grove series. I'd highly recommend reading Book 1, Everything Has Changed, first — though it does work as a standalone if you're jumping in fresh.
I'm an unabashed sucker for an enemies-to-lovers trope, and Courtney Rae delivered in every way. Jackson is the small-town single-dad veterinarian with deep roots in Willow Grove; Piper is the free-spirited girl juggling multiple part-time jobs while figuring out her next chapter. When a fire destroys Piper's apartment and a stint on Gwen and Logan's couch runs its course, Jackson proposes she move in as live-in nanny for his daughter Rowan. Not totally out of left field — he's the older brother of Piper's best friend Gwen, so these two have been in each other's orbits (not always peacefully) since childhood.
Then Victoria arrives. Jackson's ex-wife and largely absent mother to Rowan — affectionately nicknamed "Icky-Vicky" by Piper and Gwen — reappears threatening to take Rowan away from Jackson. The solution? A fake engagement, complete with a stunning ring (my husband should absolutely be taking notes). What starts as a strategic arrangement turns into frienemies with benefits, then real feelings that the entire town saw coming long before they did. Isn't that just the way of small towns?
The storyline surrounding Ophelia — the grandmother who raised Jackson and his sisters — genuinely wrecked me. Tears were absolutely shed.
I completely devoured this book. So grateful for the HEA, a very satisfying goodbye to Icky-Vicky, and I'm already desperate for Book 3 — I'm guessing it's Kennedy and Matthew's story. Willow Grove, save me a spot.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Say Don't Go is the second book in Courtney Rae's Willow Grove series. I'd highly recommend reading Book 1, Everything Has Changed, first — though it does work as a standalone if you're jumping in fresh.
I'm an unabashed sucker for an enemies-to-lovers trope, and Courtney Rae delivered in every way. Jackson is the small-town single-dad veterinarian with deep roots in Willow Grove; Piper is the free-spirited girl juggling multiple part-time jobs while figuring out her next chapter. When a fire destroys Piper's apartment and a stint on Gwen and Logan's couch runs its course, Jackson proposes she move in as live-in nanny for his daughter Rowan. Not totally out of left field — he's the older brother of Piper's best friend Gwen, so these two have been in each other's orbits (not always peacefully) since childhood.
Then Victoria arrives. Jackson's ex-wife and largely absent mother to Rowan — affectionately nicknamed "Icky-Vicky" by Piper and Gwen — reappears threatening to take Rowan away from Jackson. The solution? A fake engagement, complete with a stunning ring (my husband should absolutely be taking notes). What starts as a strategic arrangement turns into frienemies with benefits, then real feelings that the entire town saw coming long before they did. Isn't that just the way of small towns?
The storyline surrounding Ophelia — the grandmother who raised Jackson and his sisters — genuinely wrecked me. Tears were absolutely shed.
I completely devoured this book. So grateful for the HEA, a very satisfying goodbye to Icky-Vicky, and I'm already desperate for Book 3 — I'm guessing it's Kennedy and Matthew's story. Willow Grove, save me a spot.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2026
ARC Review ✨
First I would like to say a big thank you to Courtney for letting me be a part of this ARC Team!
Rate: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 2/5🌶️
What to expect when reading ;
-Single Dad x Nanny
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-Best Friends Brother
-Engagement of Convenience
This is book two of the Willow Grove series! You get to follow Piper, Jackson and little Miss Rowan! Jackson’s biggest problem, rolled into town, putting his daughter in the middle of all this drama. Now he has to think of a plan to build his case and not lose her. Piper’s trying to figure out what to do with life and not have her parents dictate that.
Ohhhhh the banter between these two was top-tier. They had the perfect build up to their spice. Also this plot was a roller coaster of emotions, but who doesn’t love to hate a the villain in the story (I do and I definitely did lol) Little Miss Rowan I think really helped make these book, the pureness she gave the story melted me had me rooting for our two main characters the entire time. I will say one thing I love is that Courtney not only gives us the main characters, but she lets a lot of the side characters have their little moments too, which I think really helps make the story as a whole. I hope there’s a book three in the works, and I have an idea of who I hope it is.🙌
Fav Quote:
•”But please tell me, do you sleep in a coffin or do you hang upside down by your freakishly long toes like a bat?”
•”I think I’m sick. A fever induced hallucination is the only explanation. Or did o fall into the twilight zone”
•”Because I know when she focuses her whole attention on something, beautiful madness happens”
Make sure you get your copy of the book when it releases 🤍
#bookstagram #romance #review
First I would like to say a big thank you to Courtney for letting me be a part of this ARC Team!
Rate: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 2/5🌶️
What to expect when reading ;
-Single Dad x Nanny
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-Best Friends Brother
-Engagement of Convenience
This is book two of the Willow Grove series! You get to follow Piper, Jackson and little Miss Rowan! Jackson’s biggest problem, rolled into town, putting his daughter in the middle of all this drama. Now he has to think of a plan to build his case and not lose her. Piper’s trying to figure out what to do with life and not have her parents dictate that.
Ohhhhh the banter between these two was top-tier. They had the perfect build up to their spice. Also this plot was a roller coaster of emotions, but who doesn’t love to hate a the villain in the story (I do and I definitely did lol) Little Miss Rowan I think really helped make these book, the pureness she gave the story melted me had me rooting for our two main characters the entire time. I will say one thing I love is that Courtney not only gives us the main characters, but she lets a lot of the side characters have their little moments too, which I think really helps make the story as a whole. I hope there’s a book three in the works, and I have an idea of who I hope it is.🙌
Fav Quote:
•”But please tell me, do you sleep in a coffin or do you hang upside down by your freakishly long toes like a bat?”
•”I think I’m sick. A fever induced hallucination is the only explanation. Or did o fall into the twilight zone”
•”Because I know when she focuses her whole attention on something, beautiful madness happens”
Make sure you get your copy of the book when it releases 🤍
#bookstagram #romance #review
Review of advance copy
Courtney Rae really slipped something into this book because I was OBSESSED 😭⭐️ Jackson Prescott had me stomping around my house clutching my kindle like a Victorian woman with “the vapors.” The GRUMP. The yearning. The way this man loved his daughter and slowly, helplessly fell for her?? absolutely lethal.
And Rowan and Piper??? Tiny scene-stealing queens. Every interaction with them melted me into a puddle on the floor. Found family vibes wrapped around the best friend’s brother trope like a warm blanket and then Courtney Rae lit that blanket on FIRE with the tension.
I loved that the relationship didn’t just magically happen overnight. You could FEEL the walls cracking bit by bit. All the little moments piled up until suddenly I was kicking my feet and grinning like an idiot at 2am. Jackson trying to act all broody and irritated while clearly being gone for her was top tier romance content. Sir, you are not fooling anyone 😭
And the emotional side hit HARD. The FMC starting from absolute rock bottom made every soft moment feel even more precious. Watching her find safety, comfort, and a home with Jackson and the girls gave me chest aches in the best way.
The chemistry?? Unreal. The banter?? So good. The domestic moments?? Inject them directly into my bloodstream. This book felt like being wrapped in a hoodie that smells like the man you’re in love with while he pretends he doesn’t care but would absolutely commit crimes for you.
And Rowan and Piper??? Tiny scene-stealing queens. Every interaction with them melted me into a puddle on the floor. Found family vibes wrapped around the best friend’s brother trope like a warm blanket and then Courtney Rae lit that blanket on FIRE with the tension.
I loved that the relationship didn’t just magically happen overnight. You could FEEL the walls cracking bit by bit. All the little moments piled up until suddenly I was kicking my feet and grinning like an idiot at 2am. Jackson trying to act all broody and irritated while clearly being gone for her was top tier romance content. Sir, you are not fooling anyone 😭
And the emotional side hit HARD. The FMC starting from absolute rock bottom made every soft moment feel even more precious. Watching her find safety, comfort, and a home with Jackson and the girls gave me chest aches in the best way.
The chemistry?? Unreal. The banter?? So good. The domestic moments?? Inject them directly into my bloodstream. This book felt like being wrapped in a hoodie that smells like the man you’re in love with while he pretends he doesn’t care but would absolutely commit crimes for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My official review of 📖Say Don’t Go by Courtney Rae
✨single dad x nanny
✨best friends brother
✨engagement of convenience
✨forced proximity
✨Small town
🔥Dual POV, 1st person, open door spice🔥
This book was amazing! I felt like I was reading a RomCom and I ate it up 🖤😈 Piper, was a fantastic FMC. Growing up with parental expectations that dampened her passions and drive in life made the personal growth so much more rewarding and exciting to read. I was so happy she got everything she thought she didn’t deserve in life in the end. Made my heart so full reading her journey.
Then, you have the MMC Jackson “aka Jacks”, who is a broody, hard working, single dad to an adorable 8 year old angel named Rowen. This man needed a nanny, hired his sister’s best friend who apparently he has been pining over Piper forever. Well, you know how forced proximity plays out everyone. And it did not disappoint. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ HOT & Spicy & amazing.
This story had a lot of heart ache, heart break and just pure happiness. I enjoy going through the emotional rollercoaster, so thank you Courtney Rae for playing with my emotions during this book! I have a theory about who the 3rd book is going to be about? Maybe the other sister and someone’s best friend? I hope I’m right cause the way it ended set it up that way!
Thank you again for adding me to your ARC team! Loved every minute of it!
✨single dad x nanny
✨best friends brother
✨engagement of convenience
✨forced proximity
✨Small town
🔥Dual POV, 1st person, open door spice🔥
This book was amazing! I felt like I was reading a RomCom and I ate it up 🖤😈 Piper, was a fantastic FMC. Growing up with parental expectations that dampened her passions and drive in life made the personal growth so much more rewarding and exciting to read. I was so happy she got everything she thought she didn’t deserve in life in the end. Made my heart so full reading her journey.
Then, you have the MMC Jackson “aka Jacks”, who is a broody, hard working, single dad to an adorable 8 year old angel named Rowen. This man needed a nanny, hired his sister’s best friend who apparently he has been pining over Piper forever. Well, you know how forced proximity plays out everyone. And it did not disappoint. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ HOT & Spicy & amazing.
This story had a lot of heart ache, heart break and just pure happiness. I enjoy going through the emotional rollercoaster, so thank you Courtney Rae for playing with my emotions during this book! I have a theory about who the 3rd book is going to be about? Maybe the other sister and someone’s best friend? I hope I’m right cause the way it ended set it up that way!
Thank you again for adding me to your ARC team! Loved every minute of it!
May 12, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from the author
Say Don't Go is the second instalment in the Willow Grove series and it follows Jackson and Piper's story. The book is written in 1st person dual-POV, with open door spice, and set in a small town.
I had a good time reading this, the writing was easy to follow and the characters were relatable. I read this without reading the first book in the series and I didn't feel like that was an issue so it's definitely an interconnected standalone. The pacing was ok and the plot was pretty predictable but satisfying. For once, the sibling didn't have an issue with their best friend dating their brother which I find to be very rare haha. I did find at times that the description of the action was a little disjointed, more specifically in regards to where the characters were physically in the scene, but I think that may have been a slight oversight. I really liked Piper and Jackson and their relationship - there wasn't so much shock factor to how things evolved between them which I liked as it made the story more relatable.
Overall a solid and quick read for fans of the tropes below, looking forward to the next book in the series !
🐶 Best Friend's Brother
🎨 Grumpy x Sunshine
☕️ Engagement of Convenience
✍🏻 Single Dad x Nanny
🐭 Small Town
Say Don't Go is the second instalment in the Willow Grove series and it follows Jackson and Piper's story. The book is written in 1st person dual-POV, with open door spice, and set in a small town.
I had a good time reading this, the writing was easy to follow and the characters were relatable. I read this without reading the first book in the series and I didn't feel like that was an issue so it's definitely an interconnected standalone. The pacing was ok and the plot was pretty predictable but satisfying. For once, the sibling didn't have an issue with their best friend dating their brother which I find to be very rare haha. I did find at times that the description of the action was a little disjointed, more specifically in regards to where the characters were physically in the scene, but I think that may have been a slight oversight. I really liked Piper and Jackson and their relationship - there wasn't so much shock factor to how things evolved between them which I liked as it made the story more relatable.
Overall a solid and quick read for fans of the tropes below, looking forward to the next book in the series !
🐶 Best Friend's Brother
🎨 Grumpy x Sunshine
☕️ Engagement of Convenience
✍🏻 Single Dad x Nanny
🐭 Small Town
May 5, 2026
2.5 stars rounding up to 3. The book wasn't anything special and I could do without it.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of the book
I believe the book was advertised as an interconnected standalone. But the author did say, "while [book 1] is not required prior to reading Say Don't Go, it does include fun interactions between Jackson & Piper that will make reading their love story that much sweeter (and hotter, to be honest). You'll also meet all of the side characters of Willow Grove including Ophelia, the glue of the Prescott family." I would actually say reading book 1 IS required prior to reading Say Don't Go. If I read book 1, I would have had a better understanding of the different characters instead of going "who is this again?" while reading.
I was also disappointed because there are solid tropes (best friend’s brother, grumpy x sunshine, single dad x nanny, and fake engagement), but the book fell flat. I wished there was more build up to Jackson and Piper's relationship before things got sexual. Maybe there was more buildup between the two in book 1?
There was also some phrasing that was a bit cringe:
- "Especially when it feels like he’s siphoning his life force straight from my soul.”
- “I want to crawl under his skin to get max exposure”
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of the book
I believe the book was advertised as an interconnected standalone. But the author did say, "while [book 1] is not required prior to reading Say Don't Go, it does include fun interactions between Jackson & Piper that will make reading their love story that much sweeter (and hotter, to be honest). You'll also meet all of the side characters of Willow Grove including Ophelia, the glue of the Prescott family." I would actually say reading book 1 IS required prior to reading Say Don't Go. If I read book 1, I would have had a better understanding of the different characters instead of going "who is this again?" while reading.
I was also disappointed because there are solid tropes (best friend’s brother, grumpy x sunshine, single dad x nanny, and fake engagement), but the book fell flat. I wished there was more build up to Jackson and Piper's relationship before things got sexual. Maybe there was more buildup between the two in book 1?
There was also some phrasing that was a bit cringe:
- "Especially when it feels like he’s siphoning his life force straight from my soul.”
- “I want to crawl under his skin to get max exposure”
May 16, 2026
Say Don’t Go
By Courtney Rae
🖤Jackson & Piper🖤
🎸 He was always her best friend’s older brother.
💔 She was the girl he was never supposed to fall for.
Piper has spent years orbiting around Jackson, trying to ignore the pull between them and pretend their connection means nothing. But some people are impossible to stay away from—especially when every glance, every touch, and every moment together feels charged with something more.
Jackson is protective, charming, and impossible not to love. And the chemistry between him and Piper? Absolutely undeniable. 🥵
What starts as longing and unresolved tension slowly turns into something deeper, messier, and harder to walk away from. Their relationship felt natural, emotional, and full of moments that made me root for them the entire time.
While the story dragged a little in places for me, the characters and their chemistry carried the book and kept me invested until the end. 💕
🔥 Best friend’s older brother
🔥 Slow burn romance
🔥 Emotional tension + chemistry
🔥 Protective MMC
🔥 Small-town romance vibes
🔥 Open-door romance
🔥 Guaranteed HEA
Say Don’t Go was emotional, sweet, and packed with chemistry that made Jackson and Piper hard not to love. 🤍
#RomanceBooks #BookReview #Bookstagram #SpicyRomance #BestFriendsBrother
By Courtney Rae
🖤Jackson & Piper🖤
🎸 He was always her best friend’s older brother.
💔 She was the girl he was never supposed to fall for.
Piper has spent years orbiting around Jackson, trying to ignore the pull between them and pretend their connection means nothing. But some people are impossible to stay away from—especially when every glance, every touch, and every moment together feels charged with something more.
Jackson is protective, charming, and impossible not to love. And the chemistry between him and Piper? Absolutely undeniable. 🥵
What starts as longing and unresolved tension slowly turns into something deeper, messier, and harder to walk away from. Their relationship felt natural, emotional, and full of moments that made me root for them the entire time.
While the story dragged a little in places for me, the characters and their chemistry carried the book and kept me invested until the end. 💕
🔥 Best friend’s older brother
🔥 Slow burn romance
🔥 Emotional tension + chemistry
🔥 Protective MMC
🔥 Small-town romance vibes
🔥 Open-door romance
🔥 Guaranteed HEA
Say Don’t Go was emotional, sweet, and packed with chemistry that made Jackson and Piper hard not to love. 🤍
#RomanceBooks #BookReview #Bookstagram #SpicyRomance #BestFriendsBrother
May 14, 2026
**ARC review**
This is my first time reading a Courtney Rae novel & I can’t believe this is only her sophomore novel! ‘Say Don’t Go’ follows Jackson & Piper as they navigate a fake engagement, an evil ex-wife, and the terminal illness of a parental figure.
Piper (FMC) is such a strong female character & mother figure for Rowan. She is caring, loving, extremely loyal, and so fierce! I loved how she bantered with Jackson & didn’t back down when she knew she was fighting on the side of right.
Jackson (MMC) is exactly who you’d want in a partner. He championed Piper when she needed it and gave her space as well. He held his entire family together and wasn’t afraid to lean on Piper when he needed to.
The villains in the book were written perfectly, as well as all of the side characters. All of the banter was fantastic! It had me both rolling my eyes & laughing out loud. Courtney handled all of the emotions & topics in the novel extremely well. And the spice? Well, let’s just say she can write a spicy scene! There aren’t too many, but they’re very well done.
I hope Courtney continues the series & we get a book for Kennedy & Matt!
Rate: 5/5 🌟
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️
This is my first time reading a Courtney Rae novel & I can’t believe this is only her sophomore novel! ‘Say Don’t Go’ follows Jackson & Piper as they navigate a fake engagement, an evil ex-wife, and the terminal illness of a parental figure.
Piper (FMC) is such a strong female character & mother figure for Rowan. She is caring, loving, extremely loyal, and so fierce! I loved how she bantered with Jackson & didn’t back down when she knew she was fighting on the side of right.
Jackson (MMC) is exactly who you’d want in a partner. He championed Piper when she needed it and gave her space as well. He held his entire family together and wasn’t afraid to lean on Piper when he needed to.
The villains in the book were written perfectly, as well as all of the side characters. All of the banter was fantastic! It had me both rolling my eyes & laughing out loud. Courtney handled all of the emotions & topics in the novel extremely well. And the spice? Well, let’s just say she can write a spicy scene! There aren’t too many, but they’re very well done.
I hope Courtney continues the series & we get a book for Kennedy & Matt!
Rate: 5/5 🌟
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️
May 12, 2026
Thank you to Courtney Rae for the ARC of this book!
I read Courtney’s debut book, Everything Has Changed, before this one, because they are an interconnected series and I was blown away and just couldn’t believe it was her first book!
As the second book in the Willow Grove series, this one also did not disappoint! It follows Jackson, a single dad who is a vet, and Piper, Jackson’s sister’s best friend, who is still trying to find her place in the world. They end up in a fake engagement to help Jackson keep custody of his daughter. The grumpy x sunshine was done so well and I loved the banter between Piper and Jackson. If anything, Courtney knows how to write a villain, and though it made me so mad, I couldn’t wait to see how justice was served.
This book had some of my favorite tropes all wrapped into one and I just wish I could read it again for the first time. I will be impatiently waiting for anything else that Courtney Rae writes!
If you love a GrumpyxSunshine, enemies to lovers, single dad, small town romance, then this book (and series) is definitely for you! It’s out today on May 12, so make sure to check it out!!!
I read Courtney’s debut book, Everything Has Changed, before this one, because they are an interconnected series and I was blown away and just couldn’t believe it was her first book!
As the second book in the Willow Grove series, this one also did not disappoint! It follows Jackson, a single dad who is a vet, and Piper, Jackson’s sister’s best friend, who is still trying to find her place in the world. They end up in a fake engagement to help Jackson keep custody of his daughter. The grumpy x sunshine was done so well and I loved the banter between Piper and Jackson. If anything, Courtney knows how to write a villain, and though it made me so mad, I couldn’t wait to see how justice was served.
This book had some of my favorite tropes all wrapped into one and I just wish I could read it again for the first time. I will be impatiently waiting for anything else that Courtney Rae writes!
If you love a GrumpyxSunshine, enemies to lovers, single dad, small town romance, then this book (and series) is definitely for you! It’s out today on May 12, so make sure to check it out!!!
May 12, 2026
I received an ARC from the author, and after loving the first book in the series, Everything Has Changed, I couldn’t wait to dive back into this world and reconnect with the characters. While this can absolutely be read as a standalone, I think the reading experience is even more enjoyable after reading EHC first.
Piper’s sass was one of my favorite parts, especially paired with Jackson’s grumpy personality. The author blended several tropes so seamlessly—single dad/nanny, engagement of convenience, best friend’s brother, and forced proximity—and it’s clear they’re a true fan of the romance genre. The story had a few unexpected twists, including one reveal that completely caught me off guard.
There are some heavier themes involving deceased parents and an ill grandmother, which added emotional depth to the story. I also wasn’t expecting the level of spice throughout, but it felt balanced and never overwhelming.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series!
Piper’s sass was one of my favorite parts, especially paired with Jackson’s grumpy personality. The author blended several tropes so seamlessly—single dad/nanny, engagement of convenience, best friend’s brother, and forced proximity—and it’s clear they’re a true fan of the romance genre. The story had a few unexpected twists, including one reveal that completely caught me off guard.
There are some heavier themes involving deceased parents and an ill grandmother, which added emotional depth to the story. I also wasn’t expecting the level of spice throughout, but it felt balanced and never overwhelming.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series!
May 13, 2026
Jackson and Piper are out in the world today! She's his little sisters best friend, he's a single dad who needs a nanny...do I need to say more???
This book gave me rom-com feels with a healthy dose of romance and spice. Courtney has you falling in love with Piper right from the start. She grew up with her parents placing expectations that suppressed her passion and watching her personal growth so rewarding to watch her fight for everything she dreamed of for her life. Jackson is the broody single dad with an adorable 8 yr, Rowan who is in need of help. He reluctantly hires Piper for the job, on the outside these two seem like frenemies but underneath all that banter they have feelings for one another. All that forced proximity leads them to blurring the lines and it did not disappoint.
This book gives you heartache, heartbreak and love. The rollercoaster of emotions kept me turning the pages way to late in the night.
This book gave me rom-com feels with a healthy dose of romance and spice. Courtney has you falling in love with Piper right from the start. She grew up with her parents placing expectations that suppressed her passion and watching her personal growth so rewarding to watch her fight for everything she dreamed of for her life. Jackson is the broody single dad with an adorable 8 yr, Rowan who is in need of help. He reluctantly hires Piper for the job, on the outside these two seem like frenemies but underneath all that banter they have feelings for one another. All that forced proximity leads them to blurring the lines and it did not disappoint.
This book gives you heartache, heartbreak and love. The rollercoaster of emotions kept me turning the pages way to late in the night.
May 15, 2026
**ARC review**
Rating: 4/5⭐️
Spice: 2/5🌶️
This was a super cute small town romance! Say Don’t Go is the second novel in the Willow Grove series. I haven’t read Everything Has Changed but I immediately added it to my TBR. This book is a Swiftie’s daydream with all of the tropes we love and the types of characters we love to root for. These characters both have their problematic moments but they grow together and learn to appreciate each other. The banter along the way is fantastic! The world building is thorough and really sweet with side characters you can get invested in. The storyline was predictable but in that comforting, satisfying way lovers of HEAs crave. The spice is well balanced to the plot and Piper is a lovable FMC- happy and positive but not willing to be steamrolled over. 👏 Definitely recommend this one!
TROPES:
-Best Friend's Brother
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-Engagement of Convenience
-Single Dad x Nanny
-Small Town
-Forced Proximity
Rating: 4/5⭐️
Spice: 2/5🌶️
This was a super cute small town romance! Say Don’t Go is the second novel in the Willow Grove series. I haven’t read Everything Has Changed but I immediately added it to my TBR. This book is a Swiftie’s daydream with all of the tropes we love and the types of characters we love to root for. These characters both have their problematic moments but they grow together and learn to appreciate each other. The banter along the way is fantastic! The world building is thorough and really sweet with side characters you can get invested in. The storyline was predictable but in that comforting, satisfying way lovers of HEAs crave. The spice is well balanced to the plot and Piper is a lovable FMC- happy and positive but not willing to be steamrolled over. 👏 Definitely recommend this one!
TROPES:
-Best Friend's Brother
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-Engagement of Convenience
-Single Dad x Nanny
-Small Town
-Forced Proximity
May 17, 2026
4/5 ⭐️
I hanging upside down by my freakishly long toes waiting for the inevitable to happen because fake engagements literally never pan out well.. lol iykyk.
Piper and Jackson’s banter has been the best banter I have read in a long time. I was actually dying laughing at some of the things theh would say to each other. Jackson being this grumpy single dad while Piper is basically sunshine personified just worked so well together. Also Rowan is such a sweet little cutie pie.
I actually went into this book without reading the first book but I’m absolutely going back because I need to know everything. There were little hints about what happened before and it definitely made me so curious about everyone’s stories.
It’s a spoiler but the villains in this book was really villain-ing bc wtf. I was pissed the entire time.
Thank you to Courtney Rae for letting me have the opportunity to read this book in advanced 🤍
I hanging upside down by my freakishly long toes waiting for the inevitable to happen because fake engagements literally never pan out well.. lol iykyk.
Piper and Jackson’s banter has been the best banter I have read in a long time. I was actually dying laughing at some of the things theh would say to each other. Jackson being this grumpy single dad while Piper is basically sunshine personified just worked so well together. Also Rowan is such a sweet little cutie pie.
I actually went into this book without reading the first book but I’m absolutely going back because I need to know everything. There were little hints about what happened before and it definitely made me so curious about everyone’s stories.
It’s a spoiler but the villains in this book was really villain-ing bc wtf. I was pissed the entire time.
Thank you to Courtney Rae for letting me have the opportunity to read this book in advanced 🤍
April 26, 2026
Hands down a must read! Piper and Jackson will put you in a chokehold that you will not mind at all. The chemistry and tension between Jackson and Piper will have you on the edge of your seat waiting for them to finally give in to the inevitable. But Jackson’s ex-wife returns and throws a big wrench in Jackson’s life. Piper is there helping him along the way with his family as well. Piper goes from being his nanny to being his fiancé in almost a blink of an eye. But Victoria and creepo Derek try their best to throw road blocks for them. The road towards their HEA was not an easy one and it will have you tempted to throw your book and yell at some of these characters but once they make it, it all feels worth it. I truly loved Jackson ad Piper’s story and they will be living rent free in my head from now on. Courtney Rae is a new automatic must buy and read author for me.
Review of advance copy
Say Don’t Go is the second book in the Willow Grove series, and somehow it was just as good as the first! Jackson and Piper were absolutely made for each other. This book had so many tropes I love small town romance, best friend’s brother, nanny-to-lovers, and even a little enemies-to-lovers tension sprinkled in too. I say “enemies” lightly… but STILL.
And can we talk about the villains for a second? Courtney Rae seriously knows how to write characters you love to hate. “Icky Vicky” got under my skin so fast I wanted to reach through the pages and deal with her myself.
Overall, this was such a fun and addictive read. A solid 4-star romance for me! If you love cute small town romances with chemistry, tension, and lovable characters, you’ll definitely want to pick this one up.
Thank you to Courtney Rae for this ARC Copy of Say Don’t Go! 📚❤️
And can we talk about the villains for a second? Courtney Rae seriously knows how to write characters you love to hate. “Icky Vicky” got under my skin so fast I wanted to reach through the pages and deal with her myself.
Overall, this was such a fun and addictive read. A solid 4-star romance for me! If you love cute small town romances with chemistry, tension, and lovable characters, you’ll definitely want to pick this one up.
Thank you to Courtney Rae for this ARC Copy of Say Don’t Go! 📚❤️
May 12, 2026
Thank you to the author for sending me this arc for review!
We're back in Willow Grove to check in with our small town of characters and to spend time with Piper, a local artist, & Jackson, the town's vet AND her best friend's brother. When Jackson realizes he needs help with his daughter when he's on vet calls and late nights, he begrudgingly asks Piper to be the nanny. Then, turmoil enters in the form of Icky Vicky, Jackson's ex-wife and mother of his daughter.
Obviously a fake engagement is the solution to Vicky's return and request of full custody of their daughter, obviously.
There is intrigue, a bit of mystery, lots of spice, and more!
I absolutely loved Courtney's sophomore release and how we got to revisit Logan & Gwen (and the rest of the town) while getting to dive deeper into Piper's family life and Jackson's inner turmoil.
HEA included!
We're back in Willow Grove to check in with our small town of characters and to spend time with Piper, a local artist, & Jackson, the town's vet AND her best friend's brother. When Jackson realizes he needs help with his daughter when he's on vet calls and late nights, he begrudgingly asks Piper to be the nanny. Then, turmoil enters in the form of Icky Vicky, Jackson's ex-wife and mother of his daughter.
Obviously a fake engagement is the solution to Vicky's return and request of full custody of their daughter, obviously.
There is intrigue, a bit of mystery, lots of spice, and more!
I absolutely loved Courtney's sophomore release and how we got to revisit Logan & Gwen (and the rest of the town) while getting to dive deeper into Piper's family life and Jackson's inner turmoil.
HEA included!
May 12, 2026
Review of Advance Copy Received from Author
Single Dad x Nanny
Grumpy x Sunshine
Best Friend's Brother
Small Town
Engagement of Convenience
First off a huge thank you to the author for providing me an advance copy, was so looking so forward to this one and it absolutely matched if not exceeded my expectations, I really enjoyed this with the tropes hooking me in from the start and happily staying for the characters and of course the plot tying everything together, the best of everything I could ask for. The range of all the feelings and seeing things from the point of view of both characters is something I always love when it comes to reading books and this certainly did not disappoint here at all. I would definitely recommend this book to those who are looking for their next romance read, I can be pretty sure you'll enjoy this one <3
Single Dad x Nanny
Grumpy x Sunshine
Best Friend's Brother
Small Town
Engagement of Convenience
First off a huge thank you to the author for providing me an advance copy, was so looking so forward to this one and it absolutely matched if not exceeded my expectations, I really enjoyed this with the tropes hooking me in from the start and happily staying for the characters and of course the plot tying everything together, the best of everything I could ask for. The range of all the feelings and seeing things from the point of view of both characters is something I always love when it comes to reading books and this certainly did not disappoint here at all. I would definitely recommend this book to those who are looking for their next romance read, I can be pretty sure you'll enjoy this one <3
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC from the author. I was eagerly awaiting this book after reading the first in the series, Everything Has Changed, and meeting the characters. This book can be read stand alone but the experience is definitely better after reading EHC.
I love Piper’s sass and how grumpy Jackson is. The multiple tropes (single dad x nanny, engagement of convenience, best friend’s brother, forced proximity) were artfully weaved together and you can tell the author is a true Romance genre fan. There were some twists and turns and a reveal I did not see coming. There are heavy topics surrounding deceased parents and sick grandma. I also was not expecting spice throughout, but it was not too overbearing.
I can’t wait to read the next book!
I love Piper’s sass and how grumpy Jackson is. The multiple tropes (single dad x nanny, engagement of convenience, best friend’s brother, forced proximity) were artfully weaved together and you can tell the author is a true Romance genre fan. There were some twists and turns and a reveal I did not see coming. There are heavy topics surrounding deceased parents and sick grandma. I also was not expecting spice throughout, but it was not too overbearing.
I can’t wait to read the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
🅰🆁🅲 🆁🅴🆅🅸🅴🆆
⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝐒𝐚𝐲 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐆𝐨 𝐛𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐞
”𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒄𝒖𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒏 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒔"
I’m not gonna lie, this book was such a refreshing and wonderful read. From the very first chapter, it had me completely hooked and intrigued the entire time. It delivers the perfect mix of charm, chemistry, emotional moments, and undeniable tension. The sweet and swoony connection? Obsessed. The playful banter and build up? So good. And those spicyyy moments? Chef’s kiss.
Plus, the setting feels straight out of a Hallmark movie, cozy small town vibes, a lovable single dad, nanny romance, and the best friend’s brother trope all wrapped into one unforgettable story.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
𝐒𝐚𝐲 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐆𝐨 𝐛𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐞
”𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝑰 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒄𝒖𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒏 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒔"
I’m not gonna lie, this book was such a refreshing and wonderful read. From the very first chapter, it had me completely hooked and intrigued the entire time. It delivers the perfect mix of charm, chemistry, emotional moments, and undeniable tension. The sweet and swoony connection? Obsessed. The playful banter and build up? So good. And those spicyyy moments? Chef’s kiss.
Plus, the setting feels straight out of a Hallmark movie, cozy small town vibes, a lovable single dad, nanny romance, and the best friend’s brother trope all wrapped into one unforgettable story.
May 12, 2026
I received an ARC eBook copy! 4.5 stars rounded up to 5. I am adding it to my books I will reread list.
Please forgive me for not giving a more detailed review. This is my first ARC I've ever received.
I loved this book! I bought the first Willow Grove book and read it. As soon as I got a glimpse at Piper and Jackson as characters, I latched right on to them. I could not put this down, and I'm sorry, but I think this is my favorite book of the two. I just love these two together.
I am normally a slow reader, but the pacing was fairly fast. I repeat: I could not put it down. One of my favorite moments is the first time Piper picks up Rowan from her dance class. Shout out to the "Icky Vicky" nickname that brought back memories of Saturday morning cartoons.
Please forgive me for not giving a more detailed review. This is my first ARC I've ever received.
I loved this book! I bought the first Willow Grove book and read it. As soon as I got a glimpse at Piper and Jackson as characters, I latched right on to them. I could not put this down, and I'm sorry, but I think this is my favorite book of the two. I just love these two together.
I am normally a slow reader, but the pacing was fairly fast. I repeat: I could not put it down. One of my favorite moments is the first time Piper picks up Rowan from her dance class. Shout out to the "Icky Vicky" nickname that brought back memories of Saturday morning cartoons.
May 14, 2026
Phew. What a ride. Suspense with the lies. Some ice is needed to cool down after some of those necklaces that were given. Dogs. Little girl laughter. Very entertaining. Best Friend’s Brother … because who hasn’t had a crush on someone you’ve been around forever? Jackson and Piper both knew what they were getting into, neither one of them wanted to admit it. Of course, with the little bit of, “lets listen to someone else and not talk”, takes it down a notch, it wasn’t too overwhelming. Jackson is the perfect grumpy dad that just wants what is best for his daughter, and who better to be that person, than someone that your daughter already cares for. The twist at the end as to why certain people are involved made for a quick laugh. A great read with some fun spice.
May 15, 2026
Say Don’t Go is book 2 in the Willow Grove series.
In the first book we had a sorta second-chance, friends to strangers to lovers romance between Gwen & Logan. As soon as we met Gwen’s ride or die, Piper, and her big brother Jackson, I knew they would be together and it would be a fun ride and booooyyy was I right.
Jackson and Piper have one of those weird we hate each other for no reason relationships. Then Jackson needs a nanny and hires Piper so we get the forced proximity of it all.
These two were the perfect balance for one another and I LOVED it. I cannot wait for the rest of the series.
What you’ll get:
Dislike to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Small town romance
Nanny x Veterinarian
Broody x Sunshine
Thank you to Courtney for this ARC!
In the first book we had a sorta second-chance, friends to strangers to lovers romance between Gwen & Logan. As soon as we met Gwen’s ride or die, Piper, and her big brother Jackson, I knew they would be together and it would be a fun ride and booooyyy was I right.
Jackson and Piper have one of those weird we hate each other for no reason relationships. Then Jackson needs a nanny and hires Piper so we get the forced proximity of it all.
These two were the perfect balance for one another and I LOVED it. I cannot wait for the rest of the series.
What you’ll get:
Dislike to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Small town romance
Nanny x Veterinarian
Broody x Sunshine
Thank you to Courtney for this ARC!
May 19, 2026
I really loved being back in Willow Grove. I loved the banter between Piper and Jackson. The chemistry between them is 🤏😘🔥 .
Little Rowan is the sweetest. ❤️❤️❤️ Kitty.
Say Don't Go is book 2 in the Willow Grove series. It has heartache, heart break and your emotions will be on a rollercoaster throughout the story.
If you're looking for a small town romance series. Willow Grove will not disappoint. It will draw you into the beautiful community and friend group and make you fall in love.
Courtney Rae books are full of all the feels. You will laugh, cry, and kick your feet. Willow Grove is a town that draws you in and gives you all the cozy vibes.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this arc.
Little Rowan is the sweetest. ❤️❤️❤️ Kitty.
Say Don't Go is book 2 in the Willow Grove series. It has heartache, heart break and your emotions will be on a rollercoaster throughout the story.
If you're looking for a small town romance series. Willow Grove will not disappoint. It will draw you into the beautiful community and friend group and make you fall in love.
Courtney Rae books are full of all the feels. You will laugh, cry, and kick your feet. Willow Grove is a town that draws you in and gives you all the cozy vibes.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this arc.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews