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Harden Heights #2
Resist Me: A Bad Boy, Curvy Girl, Dating Auction, College Billionaire Romance
Ford Harden just paid twelve thousand dollars for a date with me.
Me. And I have no idea why.
Ford is bad news.
He handles the money for his family's underground gambling ring, and weaponizes his smirk on every girl who looks his way.
Not that I'm paying attention.
I'm just trying to pass math, keep my sourdough starter alive, figure out my "sort of" thing with a very nice firefighter, and stay out of Ford's orbit entirely. Easy, right?
Except his brother is dating my best friend.
And I showed up to a tutoring session and got a half-naked Ford instead.
And I caught something in his eyes I wasn't supposed to see hidden beneath the smirk and the lime-green Jaguar.
And I let my best friend talk me into a dating auction… which is for charity. Okay?
Now, here I am. On a stage. In a slinky black dress. Watching the billionaire prince of Harden Heights raise his hand and outbid every guy in the room.
Me. June Withers. The curvy, working-class girl-next-door who's best friends with his brother's girlfriend.
Twelve thousand dollars.
For one night.
He's an experienced player.
I'm in over my head.
And the way he's looking at me isn't a dare anymore.
It's a promise.
The question isn't whether Ford Harden is trouble.
The question is why a guy who's had everyone is suddenly only looking at me.
And whether I'm reckless enough to find out.
Me. And I have no idea why.
Ford is bad news.
He handles the money for his family's underground gambling ring, and weaponizes his smirk on every girl who looks his way.
Not that I'm paying attention.
I'm just trying to pass math, keep my sourdough starter alive, figure out my "sort of" thing with a very nice firefighter, and stay out of Ford's orbit entirely. Easy, right?
Except his brother is dating my best friend.
And I showed up to a tutoring session and got a half-naked Ford instead.
And I caught something in his eyes I wasn't supposed to see hidden beneath the smirk and the lime-green Jaguar.
And I let my best friend talk me into a dating auction… which is for charity. Okay?
Now, here I am. On a stage. In a slinky black dress. Watching the billionaire prince of Harden Heights raise his hand and outbid every guy in the room.
Me. June Withers. The curvy, working-class girl-next-door who's best friends with his brother's girlfriend.
Twelve thousand dollars.
For one night.
He's an experienced player.
I'm in over my head.
And the way he's looking at me isn't a dare anymore.
It's a promise.
The question isn't whether Ford Harden is trouble.
The question is why a guy who's had everyone is suddenly only looking at me.
And whether I'm reckless enough to find out.
532 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 21, 2026
About the author
Kelsie Rae
63 books9,114 followersKelsie is a sucker for a love story with all the feels. When she's not chasing words for her next book, you will probably find her reading or, more likely, hanging out with her husband and playing with her three kiddos who love to drive her crazy.
She adores photography, baking, her yorkie, Bob, and her devon rex, Mara. And now that she's actively pursuing her writing dreams, she's set her sights on someday finding the self-discipline to not binge-watch an entire series on Netflix in one sitting.
She adores photography, baking, her yorkie, Bob, and her devon rex, Mara. And now that she's actively pursuing her writing dreams, she's set her sights on someday finding the self-discipline to not binge-watch an entire series on Netflix in one sitting.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
July 16, 2026
ARC REVIEW!
* ❤️ Friends to lovers
* 🖤 Opposites attract
* 🔥 Reformed bad boy/player
* 🌸 Girl-next-door heroine
* 💕 Curvy FMC
* 📚 He tutors her
* 😍 Slow burn
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️
If you love character-driven romances filled with banter, chemistry, and emotional growth, Resist Me delivers exactly that. As the second book in the Harden Heights series, it centers on two people who seem completely incompatible on the surface but slowly discover there’s much more beneath their first impressions.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is the dynamic between the main characters. Their relationship develops naturally, balancing playful interactions with vulnerable moments that make the emotional payoff feel earned. The hero is a reformed bad boy trying to leave his reputation behind, while the heroine brings warmth, kindness, and confidence that challenge him in all the right ways.
Expect:
* Dual emotional growth
* Witty banter
* Strong found-family vibes within the series
* Plenty of romantic chemistry
* Open-door spice balanced with heartfelt storytelling
* A satisfying blend of humor and angst without becoming overwhelmingly heavy
Now, give me Lexie and Hawke’s book ASAP!!😍
* ❤️ Friends to lovers
* 🖤 Opposites attract
* 🔥 Reformed bad boy/player
* 🌸 Girl-next-door heroine
* 💕 Curvy FMC
* 📚 He tutors her
* 😍 Slow burn
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️
If you love character-driven romances filled with banter, chemistry, and emotional growth, Resist Me delivers exactly that. As the second book in the Harden Heights series, it centers on two people who seem completely incompatible on the surface but slowly discover there’s much more beneath their first impressions.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is the dynamic between the main characters. Their relationship develops naturally, balancing playful interactions with vulnerable moments that make the emotional payoff feel earned. The hero is a reformed bad boy trying to leave his reputation behind, while the heroine brings warmth, kindness, and confidence that challenge him in all the right ways.
Expect:
* Dual emotional growth
* Witty banter
* Strong found-family vibes within the series
* Plenty of romantic chemistry
* Open-door spice balanced with heartfelt storytelling
* A satisfying blend of humor and angst without becoming overwhelmingly heavy
Now, give me Lexie and Hawke’s book ASAP!!😍
July 19, 2026
4.5⭐️
June & Ford!! I instantly fell in love with these two! June is the sweet/ innocent girl next door vibe, while Ford is the bad boy exterior, playboy vibes, with an absolute soft spot for those he cares about! These two together gave so much tension, banter, and absolute chemistry!! They were fun, playful, but boy did they bring the heat with the spice!!
I loved the games, the family drama/ secrets, and the found family aspects in this book! This one had so much character development & growth, plenty of action that kept me sucked in, and the growth of romance between the main characters just had me giggling & swooning! Definitely one I will be recommending!!
Thank you Kelsie & team for this early arc opportunity!!
June & Ford!! I instantly fell in love with these two! June is the sweet/ innocent girl next door vibe, while Ford is the bad boy exterior, playboy vibes, with an absolute soft spot for those he cares about! These two together gave so much tension, banter, and absolute chemistry!! They were fun, playful, but boy did they bring the heat with the spice!!
I loved the games, the family drama/ secrets, and the found family aspects in this book! This one had so much character development & growth, plenty of action that kept me sucked in, and the growth of romance between the main characters just had me giggling & swooning! Definitely one I will be recommending!!
Thank you Kelsie & team for this early arc opportunity!!
July 16, 2026
This is a collegiate romance where are main characters are acquaintances where her best friend is dating his brother and through getting to see his sweeter side this goes from there and does end in an HEA
July 27, 2026
Kelsie did it again! I just love her writing style and the way I connect with the characters. I feel like June is so similar to me so getting to read all about her love story was a fabulous adventure. I also love that Kelsie writes characters who have morals. Can’t wait for Lexie and Hawke!
July 22, 2026
✨Resist Me by Kelsie Rae✨
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Contains Spoilers!
.
.
.
June Withers is the curvy bombshell dental assistant with such an innocent soul. While casually dating good guy fireman Bryan, she can’t stop her mind from thinking of a certain Harden brother. She knows his reputation and let’s just say she’s not interested in being someone’s play-toy. But when she starts to see glimpses of who the real Ford Harden is, she can’t stop her heart from betraying her.
.
Ford Harden doesn’t do relationships. Hell he doesn’t even let girls stay the night. And when he meets June for the first time, he can’t help finding amusement in making her squirm. He knows he should let June be happy with her fireman non boyfriend and not ruin her innocence. But there’s something in her that just keeps bringing him back until finally she starts to break through some of his very big walls.
.
Ford and June play along the lines of teasing and flirting for while. When Ford kisses her after she checks on him, June knows what she has to do. Shutting things down with fireman Bryan is the logical choice right? I mean sure he’s perfect for her, on paper. But the spark she felt when Ford’s lips met hers? Yeah that’s not something she feels with Bryan. After finding out that “Fireman Bryan is no more”, Ford finally caves even if he just gets a taste. While the Harden family deals with some screwed up shit in both their personal lives and business endeavors, June can’t help but want to peel away the layers to find the real Ford. The one she’s caught glimpses of. And that’s the reason she sticks by Ford. Even when she knows he’s noncommittal. Will she get her heart broken? Or will Ford finally let someone in after years of feeling unworthy?
.
Yall ain’t ready for Ford and June to make you blush! This is an opposites attract slow burn steamy romance book with darker familial backstories and shady business dealings. The spicy scenes in this book are just *chefs kiss* and enough to make a girl feel all hot and bothered.
.
Kelsie has done a phenomenal job of continuing book one’s ongoing storyline while keeping the focus on our two main characters. And these characters? You feel like you know them. Like you’re a part of their circle and that they’ll have your backs no matter what. Having June as a curvy girl (and I’m not just talking big booty and all that. She Thicccc!) really hits close to home. It’s so refreshing reading about a man not only obsessed but also appreciative of a thicker body. And the way Kelsie wrote it just makes you fall for Ford Harden.
.
I’d like to thank Kelsie for this amazing opportunity to review an ARC copy of Resist Me! I’m so appreciative to be a part of her ARC team and I look forward to each release!
.
Contains Spoilers!
.
.
.
June Withers is the curvy bombshell dental assistant with such an innocent soul. While casually dating good guy fireman Bryan, she can’t stop her mind from thinking of a certain Harden brother. She knows his reputation and let’s just say she’s not interested in being someone’s play-toy. But when she starts to see glimpses of who the real Ford Harden is, she can’t stop her heart from betraying her.
.
Ford Harden doesn’t do relationships. Hell he doesn’t even let girls stay the night. And when he meets June for the first time, he can’t help finding amusement in making her squirm. He knows he should let June be happy with her fireman non boyfriend and not ruin her innocence. But there’s something in her that just keeps bringing him back until finally she starts to break through some of his very big walls.
.
Ford and June play along the lines of teasing and flirting for while. When Ford kisses her after she checks on him, June knows what she has to do. Shutting things down with fireman Bryan is the logical choice right? I mean sure he’s perfect for her, on paper. But the spark she felt when Ford’s lips met hers? Yeah that’s not something she feels with Bryan. After finding out that “Fireman Bryan is no more”, Ford finally caves even if he just gets a taste. While the Harden family deals with some screwed up shit in both their personal lives and business endeavors, June can’t help but want to peel away the layers to find the real Ford. The one she’s caught glimpses of. And that’s the reason she sticks by Ford. Even when she knows he’s noncommittal. Will she get her heart broken? Or will Ford finally let someone in after years of feeling unworthy?
.
Yall ain’t ready for Ford and June to make you blush! This is an opposites attract slow burn steamy romance book with darker familial backstories and shady business dealings. The spicy scenes in this book are just *chefs kiss* and enough to make a girl feel all hot and bothered.
.
Kelsie has done a phenomenal job of continuing book one’s ongoing storyline while keeping the focus on our two main characters. And these characters? You feel like you know them. Like you’re a part of their circle and that they’ll have your backs no matter what. Having June as a curvy girl (and I’m not just talking big booty and all that. She Thicccc!) really hits close to home. It’s so refreshing reading about a man not only obsessed but also appreciative of a thicker body. And the way Kelsie wrote it just makes you fall for Ford Harden.
.
I’d like to thank Kelsie for this amazing opportunity to review an ARC copy of Resist Me! I’m so appreciative to be a part of her ARC team and I look forward to each release!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2026
If Ruin Me hooked me, Resist Me completely reeled me in. Kelsie Rae somehow took everything I loved about the first book and turned it up another notch, delivering a romance that had me laughing, swooning, and gasping.
Ford Harden absolutely stole the show. His wit, sarcasm, and effortless charm had me grinning from the very beginning. He's the kind of hero who always has a clever comeback ready, but beneath the confidence and billionaire swagger is a man carrying far more than he lets the world see. Watching those layers slowly peel back was one of my favorite parts of the story.
And June? She was the perfect match for him. She's relatable, funny, hardworking, and never lets Ford's money or reputation intimidate her. Their chemistry is undeniable, but it's the banter that truly shines. Every conversation felt natural, playful, and packed with tension, making their relationship impossible not to root for.
Just when I thought I had the story figured out, Kelsie Rae reminded me why she's so good at keeping readers guessing. The plot twists genuinely caught me off guard, adding suspense without ever overshadowing the romance. Every reveal raised the stakes and made it even harder to put the book down.
I also loved getting to spend more time in the world of Harden Heights. Seeing familiar faces while continuing to expand this universe makes every book feel like coming home, and I already can't wait to see where the rest of the series takes us.
Resist Me is funny, emotional, swoony, and full of heart. Between Ford's sarcastic one-liners, June's authenticity, the unforgettable chemistry, and the twists I never saw coming, this was another amazing book by Kelsie Rae.
Ford Harden absolutely stole the show. His wit, sarcasm, and effortless charm had me grinning from the very beginning. He's the kind of hero who always has a clever comeback ready, but beneath the confidence and billionaire swagger is a man carrying far more than he lets the world see. Watching those layers slowly peel back was one of my favorite parts of the story.
And June? She was the perfect match for him. She's relatable, funny, hardworking, and never lets Ford's money or reputation intimidate her. Their chemistry is undeniable, but it's the banter that truly shines. Every conversation felt natural, playful, and packed with tension, making their relationship impossible not to root for.
Just when I thought I had the story figured out, Kelsie Rae reminded me why she's so good at keeping readers guessing. The plot twists genuinely caught me off guard, adding suspense without ever overshadowing the romance. Every reveal raised the stakes and made it even harder to put the book down.
I also loved getting to spend more time in the world of Harden Heights. Seeing familiar faces while continuing to expand this universe makes every book feel like coming home, and I already can't wait to see where the rest of the series takes us.
Resist Me is funny, emotional, swoony, and full of heart. Between Ford's sarcastic one-liners, June's authenticity, the unforgettable chemistry, and the twists I never saw coming, this was another amazing book by Kelsie Rae.
July 18, 2026
“What is it?” She whispers.
“You”
“You are the best thing to ever happen to me.” 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Ford and June, June and Jeep…. Oh what can I say about this book!?!?
I didn’t think it was possible for Jagger to be knocked out of my favorite Kelsie Rae character book boyfriend, but when I say Ford Harden is top tier, I mean he is top tier, chefs kiss, my favorite KR book boyfriend.
This book was everything I hoped it could be and I still want more! Definitely will reread very soon.
Our girl June, sweet, innocent, southern belle, sourdough making queen, has Ford, sarcastic, smart, mouthy, racing king wrapped around her finger from the beginning of this book. He tutors her, praises her, takes care of her, and worships the ground she walks on. She teaches him how to love, how to open up, and is so patient with his feelings she’s willing to accept whatever he is willing to give. The character growth is incredible between both of them. I think they have become one of my favorite character couples ever.
Ford will protect those he loves, and June quickly becomes one of those he loves.
This book has all the things, banter, sass, spice, romance, love, found family.
I seriously cannot wait to read the next book in this series!
“You”
“You are the best thing to ever happen to me.” 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Ford and June, June and Jeep…. Oh what can I say about this book!?!?
I didn’t think it was possible for Jagger to be knocked out of my favorite Kelsie Rae character book boyfriend, but when I say Ford Harden is top tier, I mean he is top tier, chefs kiss, my favorite KR book boyfriend.
This book was everything I hoped it could be and I still want more! Definitely will reread very soon.
Our girl June, sweet, innocent, southern belle, sourdough making queen, has Ford, sarcastic, smart, mouthy, racing king wrapped around her finger from the beginning of this book. He tutors her, praises her, takes care of her, and worships the ground she walks on. She teaches him how to love, how to open up, and is so patient with his feelings she’s willing to accept whatever he is willing to give. The character growth is incredible between both of them. I think they have become one of my favorite character couples ever.
Ford will protect those he loves, and June quickly becomes one of those he loves.
This book has all the things, banter, sass, spice, romance, love, found family.
I seriously cannot wait to read the next book in this series!
July 25, 2026
kelsie Rae Does it again
I adored this book so much!
I am a massive Kelsie fan & her books just keep getting better and better.
💚 Friends of Friends to Lovers
💚 Reformed Playboy MMC
💚 Shy FMC
💚 He tutors her in maths
💚 Opposites attract
💚 She’s dating someone else to start with
💚 Slow Burn
I loved Ford so much the joker happy go lucky playboy who actually was a tortured kinda insecure guy.
June bug the insecure hot as hell Fmc who doesn’t believe someone like ford would be interested in her.
She is the cutest
Their relationship absolute goals.
Omg the spice in this book, the haunted house scene was freaking hot & I thought right nothing will top that nope I was wrong the strip club scene it was smoking hot 🔥
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I honestly would recommend this book all day 5 ⭐️ without a doubt
I adored this book so much!
I am a massive Kelsie fan & her books just keep getting better and better.
💚 Friends of Friends to Lovers
💚 Reformed Playboy MMC
💚 Shy FMC
💚 He tutors her in maths
💚 Opposites attract
💚 She’s dating someone else to start with
💚 Slow Burn
I loved Ford so much the joker happy go lucky playboy who actually was a tortured kinda insecure guy.
June bug the insecure hot as hell Fmc who doesn’t believe someone like ford would be interested in her.
She is the cutest
Their relationship absolute goals.
Omg the spice in this book, the haunted house scene was freaking hot & I thought right nothing will top that nope I was wrong the strip club scene it was smoking hot 🔥
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I honestly would recommend this book all day 5 ⭐️ without a doubt
July 16, 2026
“You’re a light, June. A little blip of light that appears anytime you’re around.”
How @authorkelsierae was able to top Jagger Harden for me — no absolute idea but she DID 👏🏻
This book follows June Withers, sweet girl next door, and Ford Harden, playboy with a heart of gold for those he cares about. These two and their back and forth banter & how Ford always reassured her of how amazing she was — SWOON 💚
I love how you get all the same characters from Ruin Me & that the story felt like it never ended. This slow burn is 110% worth it & the way Ford cared for her when she was sick… 🤧 okay, I’m gonna stop now, but READ this book & enjoy the spice, Harden Night games, banter & friendships. 🫶
How @authorkelsierae was able to top Jagger Harden for me — no absolute idea but she DID 👏🏻
This book follows June Withers, sweet girl next door, and Ford Harden, playboy with a heart of gold for those he cares about. These two and their back and forth banter & how Ford always reassured her of how amazing she was — SWOON 💚
I love how you get all the same characters from Ruin Me & that the story felt like it never ended. This slow burn is 110% worth it & the way Ford cared for her when she was sick… 🤧 okay, I’m gonna stop now, but READ this book & enjoy the spice, Harden Night games, banter & friendships. 🫶
July 25, 2026
Thank you to Kelsie Rae for sending me an arc!!
I don't think Kelsie Rae ever misses!! I loved this one! I immediately fell in love with June and Ford. A tough, playboy with a secret soft spot and a sweet, innocent girl next door?!? Vibes were soooo good. Those two gave so much tension, banter, and chemistry that they had me giggling and swooning! I enjoyed the games, family drama, and found family aspects of the book. There was a lot of character development and growth, action, and romance to keep things entertained. I cannot wait for the next book!
What to expect:
👫 Reformed playboy × good girl
☀️ Snarky × sunshine
💕 Opposites attract
💚 Friend of a friend to lovers
👩 Curvy fmc
🚗 Street racing
👨🏫 He tutors her
💔 Broken boy
I don't think Kelsie Rae ever misses!! I loved this one! I immediately fell in love with June and Ford. A tough, playboy with a secret soft spot and a sweet, innocent girl next door?!? Vibes were soooo good. Those two gave so much tension, banter, and chemistry that they had me giggling and swooning! I enjoyed the games, family drama, and found family aspects of the book. There was a lot of character development and growth, action, and romance to keep things entertained. I cannot wait for the next book!
What to expect:
👫 Reformed playboy × good girl
☀️ Snarky × sunshine
💕 Opposites attract
💚 Friend of a friend to lovers
👩 Curvy fmc
🚗 Street racing
👨🏫 He tutors her
💔 Broken boy
July 26, 2026
***ARC REVIEW***
Kelsie Rae has done it again. I swear I inhale her books at this point, and this one was no different. I was hooked from page one and could not put it down.
Between the games, the family drama, the secrets, and the Ford and June tension… I’m obsessed. I loved getting a whole new side of Ford. In book one he was all humor and chaos, and we still got that here, but we also got the soft, vulnerable, down bad version of him and I ate it up.
June was perfect for him. She pushed him, grounded him, kept him on his toes, and was so patient with him. Their chemistry was unreal. The tension, the banter, the sweetness all of it. And their character development was chef’s kiss.
Overall, this book had me giggling, swooning, and stressed in the best way. I loved every second.
Kelsie Rae has done it again. I swear I inhale her books at this point, and this one was no different. I was hooked from page one and could not put it down.
Between the games, the family drama, the secrets, and the Ford and June tension… I’m obsessed. I loved getting a whole new side of Ford. In book one he was all humor and chaos, and we still got that here, but we also got the soft, vulnerable, down bad version of him and I ate it up.
June was perfect for him. She pushed him, grounded him, kept him on his toes, and was so patient with him. Their chemistry was unreal. The tension, the banter, the sweetness all of it. And their character development was chef’s kiss.
Overall, this book had me giggling, swooning, and stressed in the best way. I loved every second.
July 21, 2026
Are you serious? IYKYK
Love the Harden drama? The anti is upped in Resist Me. More family drama and more green flag Harden men to fall in love with. Flirting to the max with mild spice. Read book 1, book 2 picks up right where we left off in Ruin Me.
What to do expect:
🔥 curvy fmc
🔥 more harden nights
🔥 reformed player
🔥 he tutors her
🔥 friends to lovers
🔥 slow burn
4🌟 2🌶️
Love the Harden drama? The anti is upped in Resist Me. More family drama and more green flag Harden men to fall in love with. Flirting to the max with mild spice. Read book 1, book 2 picks up right where we left off in Ruin Me.
What to do expect:
🔥 curvy fmc
🔥 more harden nights
🔥 reformed player
🔥 he tutors her
🔥 friends to lovers
🔥 slow burn
4🌟 2🌶️
July 21, 2026
ARC review - as always, Kelsie has another winner! The banter between Ford and June was great. The Harden Game night with the paint was so creative and my favorite part of the book!
The drama with their dad is just amping up in this book after the house fire and pulling their sister in on it was a plot twist. I just know it’s going to get even better in the next book with Hawk and Lexie!
The drama with their dad is just amping up in this book after the house fire and pulling their sister in on it was a plot twist. I just know it’s going to get even better in the next book with Hawk and Lexie!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Where to start besides the stars.... ALL THE STARS!
I think this is a tie for my favor Kelsie Rae book (tied with A Little Complicated). Ford and June.... Such an amazing couple.
Ok, so Ford is Ford right.. He has been a "player" and the ladies all know him in more than one ways..... then he flirts with our girl June..... June all of a sudden gets a little interest and who gets jealous???? YEP! Ford. Then comes the auction where Lexies dear old brother stirs up some drama...... Let's just say, that was a fun scene. As the story progresses, we learn more about Ford's history and that June is struggling with her being a plus size person. Let's say, Ford is perfect because he doesn't mind one bit and is all about her curves.
As in Kelsie fashion, things happen and lots of interesting moments happen. We learn more about a lot of things and the lengths that certain people will go for certain things. And yes this ends in a HEA. And I love how I can the connections with some upcoming couples is going to happen. Also make sure to check out her artwork to get some spoilers of what you might see in the book. I want to say a lot more but I don't want to spoil it. Just add this book to your TBR and thank me later.
I HOPE that there is a spin-off of these couples like there was with Don't Let me series to A Little series. I would love to see more of this already.
Also I need to say that I devoured this book. Like not just a little devoured, I started late in the evening. Tried to go to bed around 1 am, didn't work and then read in bed until around 3 am just to get to 80% where at that point I had to sleep because I was struggling so hard with keeping my phone upright. And then of course as soon as I got up, had to do some adulting things and went right back to reading. This book was devoured in under 24 hours. For this being a thick book (532 pages), it went down so easy and fast. I am sad now that it's over. I cannot wait to see what happens next in this series.
Thank you to Kelsie and her team for allowing me to read this book early. I can't wait to own a bookshelf trophy.
I think this is a tie for my favor Kelsie Rae book (tied with A Little Complicated). Ford and June.... Such an amazing couple.
Ok, so Ford is Ford right.. He has been a "player" and the ladies all know him in more than one ways..... then he flirts with our girl June..... June all of a sudden gets a little interest and who gets jealous???? YEP! Ford. Then comes the auction where Lexies dear old brother stirs up some drama...... Let's just say, that was a fun scene. As the story progresses, we learn more about Ford's history and that June is struggling with her being a plus size person. Let's say, Ford is perfect because he doesn't mind one bit and is all about her curves.
As in Kelsie fashion, things happen and lots of interesting moments happen. We learn more about a lot of things and the lengths that certain people will go for certain things. And yes this ends in a HEA. And I love how I can the connections with some upcoming couples is going to happen. Also make sure to check out her artwork to get some spoilers of what you might see in the book. I want to say a lot more but I don't want to spoil it. Just add this book to your TBR and thank me later.
I HOPE that there is a spin-off of these couples like there was with Don't Let me series to A Little series. I would love to see more of this already.
Also I need to say that I devoured this book. Like not just a little devoured, I started late in the evening. Tried to go to bed around 1 am, didn't work and then read in bed until around 3 am just to get to 80% where at that point I had to sleep because I was struggling so hard with keeping my phone upright. And then of course as soon as I got up, had to do some adulting things and went right back to reading. This book was devoured in under 24 hours. For this being a thick book (532 pages), it went down so easy and fast. I am sad now that it's over. I cannot wait to see what happens next in this series.
Thank you to Kelsie and her team for allowing me to read this book early. I can't wait to own a bookshelf trophy.
July 24, 2026
Welcome back to Harden Heights, where they work hard, play hard, and there's always something shady going on behind closed doors! We meet our friends the Harden Brothers again, and this time follow the youngest Harden brother, Ford, as he inconveniently begins to become attached to a woman.
Ford Harden: the cocky, unfiltered, unserious, Hollywood hot, known playboy, and the master of the Harden Heights underground betting odds.
June Withers: curvy, shy, and sweet Dental assistant, sourdough starter mom, and Jagger's girlfriend Violet's roommate/bestie.
June caught Ford's eye the moment they met, and for a guy who doesn't sleep with the same girl twice or catch feelings, she's certainly stolen his focus. And when a nice young firefighter starts sniffing around June, Ford doesn't like it one bit! When June needs tutoring in math, Ford helps her out, and she's surprised to learn he's not just a (very) pretty face with a funny retort. And what's a girl to do when Ford bids $12k on her at a charity dating auction? 🤭
Ford was such an interesting character to get inside the mind of. His POV was laugh out loud funny a lot of the time (also horny AF 😅), and for as much sass as he gives out loud, there's somehow even more inside his thoughts! 😆
June continues to be an absolute sweetheart with the patience of a saint, and the ability to read Ford like none other.
But this wouldn't be Harden Heights if there weren't shady dealings, crime, danger, and a turf war. a\As such, this book had a good mix of romance, steam, Harden Nights adventures, family drama, and suspense.
Sidenote: As always, while reading about Ford & June, I had one eye on Hawke and Lexie, because those two have stolen my attention since book 1, and I CANNOT WAIT for their turn!
4.5⭐ 2.5🌶️
Thank you to Kelsie Rae and team for the advanced digital copy for review! These are my honest thoughts.
Ford Harden: the cocky, unfiltered, unserious, Hollywood hot, known playboy, and the master of the Harden Heights underground betting odds.
June Withers: curvy, shy, and sweet Dental assistant, sourdough starter mom, and Jagger's girlfriend Violet's roommate/bestie.
June caught Ford's eye the moment they met, and for a guy who doesn't sleep with the same girl twice or catch feelings, she's certainly stolen his focus. And when a nice young firefighter starts sniffing around June, Ford doesn't like it one bit! When June needs tutoring in math, Ford helps her out, and she's surprised to learn he's not just a (very) pretty face with a funny retort. And what's a girl to do when Ford bids $12k on her at a charity dating auction? 🤭
Ford was such an interesting character to get inside the mind of. His POV was laugh out loud funny a lot of the time (also horny AF 😅), and for as much sass as he gives out loud, there's somehow even more inside his thoughts! 😆
June continues to be an absolute sweetheart with the patience of a saint, and the ability to read Ford like none other.
But this wouldn't be Harden Heights if there weren't shady dealings, crime, danger, and a turf war. a\As such, this book had a good mix of romance, steam, Harden Nights adventures, family drama, and suspense.
Sidenote: As always, while reading about Ford & June, I had one eye on Hawke and Lexie, because those two have stolen my attention since book 1, and I CANNOT WAIT for their turn!
4.5⭐ 2.5🌶️
Thank you to Kelsie Rae and team for the advanced digital copy for review! These are my honest thoughts.
July 21, 2026
FIVE. FREAKING. STARS.
Resist Me is Ford & June’s book.
In the first book we met Ford, as he is Jagger’s brother, and June as she became a friend and roommate of Violet’s.
I immediately loved June when we met her. I felt a connection and kinship to her. Her shy and reserved nature, coinciding with her curiosity of stepping into somewhat dangerous territory. She mixed perfectly with Ford, who is much more direct, humorous, and outgoing.
In the first book when we met Ford, I liked him, but at times he could say some CRAZY shit that made me side eye. But in Resist Me, I did not get that feeling from him much. He has his own quirky humor, that I ended up adoring.
As I said earlier, I think these two meshed well together. I enjoyed their little quips with each other. I also loved how he made June feel more secure in her body and was always complimenting and standing up for her. While I love how June made Ford feel more secure in his personality, as he said people usually wanted him for his name, his money, or his body. While they each had some sense of security in themselves before being together, once they got together, they just made each other stronger. And let me tell you the spice, was SPICY! To my recollection, one of Kelsie Rae’s most spicy books! Ford and the things he said was just 🥵
Along with the romance we had the side plot continued from book 1, with Ethan trying to mess up their business, and with their dad trying to manipulate and control them. As well as the anticipation and craziness of the Harden Nights. I feel like this series is more romantic suspense than straight romance. It kind of reminds me of the Sparrow Falls series in that sense. The plot lines are not similar but the fact that they are romantic suspense, with the romances slowly building, while also getting the suspense. And no third act breakups!!
Anyway, this has become one of my favorite Kelsie Rae books now. I cannot wait for the rest of the series. I’m especially excited for Roman and Cobie’s book!
Resist Me is Ford & June’s book.
In the first book we met Ford, as he is Jagger’s brother, and June as she became a friend and roommate of Violet’s.
I immediately loved June when we met her. I felt a connection and kinship to her. Her shy and reserved nature, coinciding with her curiosity of stepping into somewhat dangerous territory. She mixed perfectly with Ford, who is much more direct, humorous, and outgoing.
In the first book when we met Ford, I liked him, but at times he could say some CRAZY shit that made me side eye. But in Resist Me, I did not get that feeling from him much. He has his own quirky humor, that I ended up adoring.
As I said earlier, I think these two meshed well together. I enjoyed their little quips with each other. I also loved how he made June feel more secure in her body and was always complimenting and standing up for her. While I love how June made Ford feel more secure in his personality, as he said people usually wanted him for his name, his money, or his body. While they each had some sense of security in themselves before being together, once they got together, they just made each other stronger. And let me tell you the spice, was SPICY! To my recollection, one of Kelsie Rae’s most spicy books! Ford and the things he said was just 🥵
Along with the romance we had the side plot continued from book 1, with Ethan trying to mess up their business, and with their dad trying to manipulate and control them. As well as the anticipation and craziness of the Harden Nights. I feel like this series is more romantic suspense than straight romance. It kind of reminds me of the Sparrow Falls series in that sense. The plot lines are not similar but the fact that they are romantic suspense, with the romances slowly building, while also getting the suspense. And no third act breakups!!
Anyway, this has become one of my favorite Kelsie Rae books now. I cannot wait for the rest of the series. I’m especially excited for Roman and Cobie’s book!
July 27, 2026
★★★★½☆ (4.5/5)
If you already know me, you’ll know that Kelsie Rae is one of my instant-buy, instant-read authors. I absolutely adore her books, so I was counting down the days until I got my hands on the ARC of Resist Me.
As someone who saw so much of herself in June, this story hit incredibly close to home. It honestly felt like I was reading my own insecurities both physically and emotionally on the page. That made this book feel even more special to me. It’s so rare to find a romance where the FMC isn’t written to fit the typical romance mould. Kelsie gave us a character who so many women can genuinely relate to, and she handled June’s insecurities with so much care and authenticity. It felt validating in a way I don’t often experience while reading romance.
And then there’s Ford… (swoon). He never made June feel like she had to change herself to be worthy of love. He saw her exactly as she was, and that was everything. Their banter was hilarious, but beneath all the teasing you could really feel the vulnerability from both of them. Ford’s own insecurities and complicated family dynamics added so much depth to his character, making their relationship feel balanced and believable.
Their romance was beautiful. It never felt forced or overdramatic, it developed naturally, and every moment between them felt earned. Alongside the romance, the ongoing plot from book one continued to develop, raising the stakes before tying everything together so satisfyingly by the end.
This is, without a doubt, my favourite book in the Harden Heights series so far. June will always hold a special place in my heart because I saw so much of myself in her, and I know so many other women will too. Kelsie Rae has once again reminded me why she’s an auto-buy author for me, and I already can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
If you already know me, you’ll know that Kelsie Rae is one of my instant-buy, instant-read authors. I absolutely adore her books, so I was counting down the days until I got my hands on the ARC of Resist Me.
As someone who saw so much of herself in June, this story hit incredibly close to home. It honestly felt like I was reading my own insecurities both physically and emotionally on the page. That made this book feel even more special to me. It’s so rare to find a romance where the FMC isn’t written to fit the typical romance mould. Kelsie gave us a character who so many women can genuinely relate to, and she handled June’s insecurities with so much care and authenticity. It felt validating in a way I don’t often experience while reading romance.
And then there’s Ford… (swoon). He never made June feel like she had to change herself to be worthy of love. He saw her exactly as she was, and that was everything. Their banter was hilarious, but beneath all the teasing you could really feel the vulnerability from both of them. Ford’s own insecurities and complicated family dynamics added so much depth to his character, making their relationship feel balanced and believable.
Their romance was beautiful. It never felt forced or overdramatic, it developed naturally, and every moment between them felt earned. Alongside the romance, the ongoing plot from book one continued to develop, raising the stakes before tying everything together so satisfyingly by the end.
This is, without a doubt, my favourite book in the Harden Heights series so far. June will always hold a special place in my heart because I saw so much of myself in her, and I know so many other women will too. Kelsie Rae has once again reminded me why she’s an auto-buy author for me, and I already can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
RESIST Me by Kelsie Rae
5/5 STARS / MILD SPICE / HIGH YEARNING X FLIRTING
Most thought about song while reading, Desire Griffin Remix
Thank you to Kelsie Rae and her team for the opportunity to be an ARC reader, this email was such a shock to receive.
Tropes:
Reformed Playboy x Good Girl
Curvy FMC
Broken MMC
Slow Burn
This book was so good, I had the hardest time setting it down, I finished it in a 24 hour time frame from the moment it hit my inbox. Resist me was impossible to RESIST… it was hard to stay away from Ford and June while reading their story. One thing I REALLY admire about this book is that there was so much more going on than just a love interest or attraction between two characters.
You have Ford, who was raised in an abusive household, he's just trying to get by and do what he can with his brothers. The ultimate goal being to chair his deceased mom’s company. Without giving too much away, he goes through a lot ...
You have June, the definition of sunshine girl, when she appears on the pages she’s surrounded by happiness and brings sunshine to everyone that she comes into contact with. All interactions that include her feel pure and inoccent, like the world hasn't had the opportunity to make her jaded. Maybe just don’t ask her for help with your math homework …
I have concerns about certain characters in this book...I don’t trust them... Something that is really great about Kelsie Rae, she knows how to set up a series with her introductions of characters, no matter how small or insiginificant their introduction might seem at first ...leave no theory behind and hold on tight.
This is the second installment in the Harden Heights series and you are not going to want to miss this reformed playboys story.
5/5 STARS / MILD SPICE / HIGH YEARNING X FLIRTING
Most thought about song while reading, Desire Griffin Remix
Thank you to Kelsie Rae and her team for the opportunity to be an ARC reader, this email was such a shock to receive.
Tropes:
Reformed Playboy x Good Girl
Curvy FMC
Broken MMC
Slow Burn
This book was so good, I had the hardest time setting it down, I finished it in a 24 hour time frame from the moment it hit my inbox. Resist me was impossible to RESIST… it was hard to stay away from Ford and June while reading their story. One thing I REALLY admire about this book is that there was so much more going on than just a love interest or attraction between two characters.
You have Ford, who was raised in an abusive household, he's just trying to get by and do what he can with his brothers. The ultimate goal being to chair his deceased mom’s company. Without giving too much away, he goes through a lot ...
You have June, the definition of sunshine girl, when she appears on the pages she’s surrounded by happiness and brings sunshine to everyone that she comes into contact with. All interactions that include her feel pure and inoccent, like the world hasn't had the opportunity to make her jaded. Maybe just don’t ask her for help with your math homework …
I have concerns about certain characters in this book...I don’t trust them... Something that is really great about Kelsie Rae, she knows how to set up a series with her introductions of characters, no matter how small or insiginificant their introduction might seem at first ...leave no theory behind and hold on tight.
This is the second installment in the Harden Heights series and you are not going to want to miss this reformed playboys story.
July 17, 2026
“You are the best thing to ever happen to me.”
Forddddddd! The man was the perfect blend of sassy playboy and secretly broken boy. I’ve never wanted to hurt a book character more than 1. Ethan & 2. Titas Harden!
I am keeping all my fingers and toes crossed that those two villains get hit with some serious karma in the next book!
“Guess I’m not used to being put first, June Bug.”
June was perfectly quirky and had me craving sourdough, literally the entire book. She has some deep rooted body image issues that Ford helps her to overcome through the book.
“You have no idea how much I needed this.” “Needed what?” His arms tighten around me. “This. Holding you. Breathing you in. Knowing you’re okay, and that you’re still mine.”
Ford & June’s story was a slow burn that was definitely got ignited in the last half of the book! 🤭
“But with Ford, I feel like a siren. A goddess. Someone who deserves to be worshipped. And worship me, he has. Over and over again.”
I had two favorite scenes, the carnival glow in the dark paint event was so fun! It reminded me so much of the Teen Wolf rave episode! My second favorite scene was Ford finally getting to experience what true parental love felt like. 🥹💖
“Okay, June Bug. Let’s play a game.”
There are still many things left unresolved at the end of this book, I can’t wait to see how everything plays out in the next book!
Tropes:
💖 Playboy MMC + Wallflower FMC
🧮 He’s a Genius & He Tutors Her
🥖 He loves Her Sourdough
🫶🏼 Found Family
💰 Rich Boy x Middle Class Girl
🏎️ He Can Seriously Race A Car
❤️🔥 Slow Burn + Spiiice
❤️🩹 He Takes Care of Her When She’s Sick
Forddddddd! The man was the perfect blend of sassy playboy and secretly broken boy. I’ve never wanted to hurt a book character more than 1. Ethan & 2. Titas Harden!
I am keeping all my fingers and toes crossed that those two villains get hit with some serious karma in the next book!
“Guess I’m not used to being put first, June Bug.”
June was perfectly quirky and had me craving sourdough, literally the entire book. She has some deep rooted body image issues that Ford helps her to overcome through the book.
“You have no idea how much I needed this.” “Needed what?” His arms tighten around me. “This. Holding you. Breathing you in. Knowing you’re okay, and that you’re still mine.”
Ford & June’s story was a slow burn that was definitely got ignited in the last half of the book! 🤭
“But with Ford, I feel like a siren. A goddess. Someone who deserves to be worshipped. And worship me, he has. Over and over again.”
I had two favorite scenes, the carnival glow in the dark paint event was so fun! It reminded me so much of the Teen Wolf rave episode! My second favorite scene was Ford finally getting to experience what true parental love felt like. 🥹💖
“Okay, June Bug. Let’s play a game.”
There are still many things left unresolved at the end of this book, I can’t wait to see how everything plays out in the next book!
Tropes:
💖 Playboy MMC + Wallflower FMC
🧮 He’s a Genius & He Tutors Her
🥖 He loves Her Sourdough
🫶🏼 Found Family
💰 Rich Boy x Middle Class Girl
🏎️ He Can Seriously Race A Car
❤️🔥 Slow Burn + Spiiice
❤️🩹 He Takes Care of Her When She’s Sick
July 18, 2026
✨RESIST ME ARC FINISHED!✨
Title: Resist me by @authorkelsierae
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy/ smut: 🌶️🌶️ / 🥵🥵🥵
Resist me is the second book In the harden heights series by Kelsie Rae!
June the curvy dental hygienist who comes from a loving home with both parents but who’s not good at math, finds herself being friends with her new roommate who gets her out of her shell and introduces her to a lot of different things/ people, they end up at a harden game night which is where June meets the harden boys. One who loves to flirt with her just to make her blush, but is also willing to tutor her in math!
Ford billionaire, start ass, racer, play boy, math genius, & serious about ED (erectile dysfunction)😂. Ford and his brothers were cut from there inheritance by there narcissistic abusive father. The started throwing game nights & taken bets for a living, to try and survive and prove to their father they don’t need him!
After a couple interactions they aren’t quite friends, but friends of a friend 🤭 When violet June’s best friends offers to tutor her for math but they have to do it at jaggers house ( fords brother& violets boyfrind) but she forgets and doesn’t show up, leaving June standing at fords house with him, ford offers to tutor her, with flirting from ford and close proximity June starts to feel things for June but June might has a boyfriend which makes ford jealous, ford doesn’t do feeling past family traumas have made ford hard an stone, or so he thinks but a sourdough mama who’s bad at math just might be able to convince ford he’s feeling aren’t lost after all.
#resistme #asSeriousasED
Title: Resist me by @authorkelsierae
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy/ smut: 🌶️🌶️ / 🥵🥵🥵
Resist me is the second book In the harden heights series by Kelsie Rae!
June the curvy dental hygienist who comes from a loving home with both parents but who’s not good at math, finds herself being friends with her new roommate who gets her out of her shell and introduces her to a lot of different things/ people, they end up at a harden game night which is where June meets the harden boys. One who loves to flirt with her just to make her blush, but is also willing to tutor her in math!
Ford billionaire, start ass, racer, play boy, math genius, & serious about ED (erectile dysfunction)😂. Ford and his brothers were cut from there inheritance by there narcissistic abusive father. The started throwing game nights & taken bets for a living, to try and survive and prove to their father they don’t need him!
After a couple interactions they aren’t quite friends, but friends of a friend 🤭 When violet June’s best friends offers to tutor her for math but they have to do it at jaggers house ( fords brother& violets boyfrind) but she forgets and doesn’t show up, leaving June standing at fords house with him, ford offers to tutor her, with flirting from ford and close proximity June starts to feel things for June but June might has a boyfriend which makes ford jealous, ford doesn’t do feeling past family traumas have made ford hard an stone, or so he thinks but a sourdough mama who’s bad at math just might be able to convince ford he’s feeling aren’t lost after all.
#resistme #asSeriousasED
July 22, 2026
You ever find an author where it’s an automatic, “Yep, I’m buying that book,” no matter what they release? That’s Kelsie Rae for me.
She just released Resist Me, and I was going to read it no matter what. But I’ll be honest… I wasn’t exactly excited for Ford’s story.
After meeting him in Ruin Me (Jagger and Violet’s book), I did not like Ford. He came across as cocky, arrogant, and honestly just kind of a jerk. Those aren’t usually my favorite MMCs, so I wasn’t sure this book was going to win me over.
Well… I was completely wrong.
The more I read, the more I got to see who Ford really is underneath that tough exterior. That cocky attitude is really just a shield. He doesn’t let people get close to him, and when he does, it’s because they truly matter to him. Seeing that vulnerable side completely changed my opinion of him. He went from one of my least favorite MMCs to one of my favorites.
And then there’s June. She was exactly what Ford needed. She saw the real him before he could even admit it to himself. She knew when to be patient, when to give him space, and when to push him just enough. Ford did the same for her. He encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone while always being there when she needed him. They challenged each other, supported each other, and honestly just fit together perfectly.
By the end of the book, I couldn’t imagine either of them with anyone else. Ford and June have easily become one of my favorite book couples.
So if you’ve been on the fence about Resist Me because you weren’t a Ford fan either… trust me. Give him a chance. I think he just might surprise you like he surprised me.
She just released Resist Me, and I was going to read it no matter what. But I’ll be honest… I wasn’t exactly excited for Ford’s story.
After meeting him in Ruin Me (Jagger and Violet’s book), I did not like Ford. He came across as cocky, arrogant, and honestly just kind of a jerk. Those aren’t usually my favorite MMCs, so I wasn’t sure this book was going to win me over.
Well… I was completely wrong.
The more I read, the more I got to see who Ford really is underneath that tough exterior. That cocky attitude is really just a shield. He doesn’t let people get close to him, and when he does, it’s because they truly matter to him. Seeing that vulnerable side completely changed my opinion of him. He went from one of my least favorite MMCs to one of my favorites.
And then there’s June. She was exactly what Ford needed. She saw the real him before he could even admit it to himself. She knew when to be patient, when to give him space, and when to push him just enough. Ford did the same for her. He encouraged her to step outside her comfort zone while always being there when she needed him. They challenged each other, supported each other, and honestly just fit together perfectly.
By the end of the book, I couldn’t imagine either of them with anyone else. Ford and June have easily become one of my favorite book couples.
So if you’ve been on the fence about Resist Me because you weren’t a Ford fan either… trust me. Give him a chance. I think he just might surprise you like he surprised me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨📚 Audiobook ALC Review | Resist Me by Kelsie Rae- A Bad Boy, Curvy Girl, Dating Auction, College Billionaire Romance 💕 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kelsie Rae never ceases to amaze me.
Resist Me completely pulled me in and I didn’t want it to end. This audiobook is a multicast narration and has some fantastic characters.
But the main characters of the story were the stars of the show! Ford had me kicking my feet one minute and wanting to shake him the next 😂. He’s a confident, successful billionaire, but underneath all that swagger he is someone who is incredibly loyal and protective. Then there’s June, who I absolutely loved. She’s kind, independent, hardworking and doesn’t let Ford’s money or charm change who she is. Watching these two slowly break down each other’s walls was everything.
The chemistry? Off the charts. The banter? So good. The emotional moments? They hit me right in the heart. I laughed, I smiled like an idiot and I was completely invested in every step of their journey.
The narrators absolutely nailed it. They didn’t just read the story they performed it. Every emotion, every bit of tension, every flirty exchange felt so real and the multicast narration made Ford and Junes story come alive. They honestly made an already amazing story even better💕
If you’re looking for a romance with amazing chemistry, characters you can’t help but fall in love with and an audiobook that’s impossible to stop listening to, I can’t recommend Resist Me enough. This one is definitely a new favorite. 💚✨
Thankyou DarkStarRomance and kelsie for this opportunity 💕
Kelsie Rae never ceases to amaze me.
Resist Me completely pulled me in and I didn’t want it to end. This audiobook is a multicast narration and has some fantastic characters.
But the main characters of the story were the stars of the show! Ford had me kicking my feet one minute and wanting to shake him the next 😂. He’s a confident, successful billionaire, but underneath all that swagger he is someone who is incredibly loyal and protective. Then there’s June, who I absolutely loved. She’s kind, independent, hardworking and doesn’t let Ford’s money or charm change who she is. Watching these two slowly break down each other’s walls was everything.
The chemistry? Off the charts. The banter? So good. The emotional moments? They hit me right in the heart. I laughed, I smiled like an idiot and I was completely invested in every step of their journey.
The narrators absolutely nailed it. They didn’t just read the story they performed it. Every emotion, every bit of tension, every flirty exchange felt so real and the multicast narration made Ford and Junes story come alive. They honestly made an already amazing story even better💕
If you’re looking for a romance with amazing chemistry, characters you can’t help but fall in love with and an audiobook that’s impossible to stop listening to, I can’t recommend Resist Me enough. This one is definitely a new favorite. 💚✨
Thankyou DarkStarRomance and kelsie for this opportunity 💕
Review of advance copy
No spoilers !!!! Thank-you to Kelsie Rae and DarkStar Audio for this (ALC) advanced listener copy.
Book 2 in the Harden Heights series picks up where Book 1 left off. Like Book 1 which focused on Violet & Jagger, Book 2 focuses on June, Violet’s 3rd roommate and Ford, Jagger’s brother.
Will Jane the sweet, curvy paediatric dental assistant choose the green flag boyfriend Brian the firefighter or the flirty, fun, commitment-phobic, party-boy who doesn’t believe in love?
Green flag or red ? It’s a no-brainer, right?
This multicast audiobook which features Dani Soleil as June and Ryan Pierson as Ford along with the other multicast narrators elevates this 5 star read to a 6 star listen!
The other narrators continue from Book 1- Ava Monroe as Violet & Zach Lazar Hoffman as Jagger as well as Vanessa Moyen, E.M. Wylde, Cary Hite and Natasha Verna.
All the male narrators are swoon-worthy while all the female narrators are soft and sensual.
Kelsie Rae is a master-story teller. She doesn’t pull her punches and gives you all the feels.
If you love the jealousy trope, the found family trope, the men who worship women with plus size curves trope, and the sourdough starter as a character trope; then this audiobook or book is for you. This series is well-written, the pacing is perfect, and the story is filled with witty banter.
Highly recommend!! Definately has my vote for one of the best books of 2026.
Book 2 in the Harden Heights series picks up where Book 1 left off. Like Book 1 which focused on Violet & Jagger, Book 2 focuses on June, Violet’s 3rd roommate and Ford, Jagger’s brother.
Will Jane the sweet, curvy paediatric dental assistant choose the green flag boyfriend Brian the firefighter or the flirty, fun, commitment-phobic, party-boy who doesn’t believe in love?
Green flag or red ? It’s a no-brainer, right?
This multicast audiobook which features Dani Soleil as June and Ryan Pierson as Ford along with the other multicast narrators elevates this 5 star read to a 6 star listen!
The other narrators continue from Book 1- Ava Monroe as Violet & Zach Lazar Hoffman as Jagger as well as Vanessa Moyen, E.M. Wylde, Cary Hite and Natasha Verna.
All the male narrators are swoon-worthy while all the female narrators are soft and sensual.
Kelsie Rae is a master-story teller. She doesn’t pull her punches and gives you all the feels.
If you love the jealousy trope, the found family trope, the men who worship women with plus size curves trope, and the sourdough starter as a character trope; then this audiobook or book is for you. This series is well-written, the pacing is perfect, and the story is filled with witty banter.
Highly recommend!! Definately has my vote for one of the best books of 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes:
💚FRIEND OF A FRIEND TO LOVERS
🖤OPPOSITES ATTRACT
💚REFORMED PLAYBOY X GOOD GIRL
🖤CURVY FMC
💚STREET RACER MMC
🖤HE TUTORS HER
💚BROKEN BOY
🖤SLOW BURN
💚SNARKY X SUNSHINE
Resist Me was a five star for me. This book was so good. Resist me is book 2 in the Harden Heights series and features Ford Harden and June, whom we met in book 1. Resist Me pulled me in from the beginning and I didn’t want to stop.
Our FMC, June, is a plus size gal but is also for the most part comfortable in her own skin. She's fiercely independent and hardworking and doesn't need taken care of. I absolutely adored June.
Ford Harden, our MMC I actually loved him to pieces. He's a confident guy, full of swagger but under all of that swagger and sarcasm is the true Ford. He has a good heart and is protective of his friends and family. Ford doesn’t open to a lot of people but seems drawn to June.
Of the Harden Brothers, he’s the guy that is a wiz with numbers. So when he learns June is struggling in math he offers to tutor her.
This book was so well balanced. We had some major chemistry between both characters. There was banter as well. What I really enjoyed though was the emotional moments. They showed Ford in a different light, his softer more vulnerable side. And when we got to see him interact with people in Junes life that showed this well it got me in my feels.
I can’t wait for Hawk.
Thank you to Kelsie for the advance copy.
Tropes:
💚FRIEND OF A FRIEND TO LOVERS
🖤OPPOSITES ATTRACT
💚REFORMED PLAYBOY X GOOD GIRL
🖤CURVY FMC
💚STREET RACER MMC
🖤HE TUTORS HER
💚BROKEN BOY
🖤SLOW BURN
💚SNARKY X SUNSHINE
Resist Me was a five star for me. This book was so good. Resist me is book 2 in the Harden Heights series and features Ford Harden and June, whom we met in book 1. Resist Me pulled me in from the beginning and I didn’t want to stop.
Our FMC, June, is a plus size gal but is also for the most part comfortable in her own skin. She's fiercely independent and hardworking and doesn't need taken care of. I absolutely adored June.
Ford Harden, our MMC I actually loved him to pieces. He's a confident guy, full of swagger but under all of that swagger and sarcasm is the true Ford. He has a good heart and is protective of his friends and family. Ford doesn’t open to a lot of people but seems drawn to June.
Of the Harden Brothers, he’s the guy that is a wiz with numbers. So when he learns June is struggling in math he offers to tutor her.
This book was so well balanced. We had some major chemistry between both characters. There was banter as well. What I really enjoyed though was the emotional moments. They showed Ford in a different light, his softer more vulnerable side. And when we got to see him interact with people in Junes life that showed this well it got me in my feels.
I can’t wait for Hawk.
Thank you to Kelsie for the advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Welcome back to Harden Heights where the Harden brothers rule and through some epic Harden Night events. Be ready for some epic events that aren’t just left for the Harden Nights!
We go back to the fairgrounds, the races as well as a good bon fire on the beach with live music and smores and a few new places as well. While the games may change, there is always bound to be some wild moments that are full of surprises. Don’t worry about sweet innocent June, when you have Violet and Lexi at her side! They may even help pull her out of her quiet shell for some of these events. The one you should worry about is Ford who is quickly labeled as a Friend of a Friend, a step below the friend zone. The question is when does he realize that he actually wants it to be something more and what will he do about it?
He gives her nicknames- and she doesn’t get the ick when she hears them! ;)
She introduces him as a Friend of a Friend
He doesn’t believe in love until he does
She sees him for all he is and not just the act
He doesn’t feel he is worthy
She sees his heart
He’s a playboy
She’s sweet, innocent and shy
He uses sarcasm and and his words to protect himself
She uses baking with Quasimodough to get her through
He is the numbers guy in the family
She struggles with passing Math
Add in all these tropes and microtropes, some amazing banter, a little angst, family drama and some spice you have another great read by Kelsie!
We go back to the fairgrounds, the races as well as a good bon fire on the beach with live music and smores and a few new places as well. While the games may change, there is always bound to be some wild moments that are full of surprises. Don’t worry about sweet innocent June, when you have Violet and Lexi at her side! They may even help pull her out of her quiet shell for some of these events. The one you should worry about is Ford who is quickly labeled as a Friend of a Friend, a step below the friend zone. The question is when does he realize that he actually wants it to be something more and what will he do about it?
He gives her nicknames- and she doesn’t get the ick when she hears them! ;)
She introduces him as a Friend of a Friend
He doesn’t believe in love until he does
She sees him for all he is and not just the act
He doesn’t feel he is worthy
She sees his heart
He’s a playboy
She’s sweet, innocent and shy
He uses sarcasm and and his words to protect himself
She uses baking with Quasimodough to get her through
He is the numbers guy in the family
She struggles with passing Math
Add in all these tropes and microtropes, some amazing banter, a little angst, family drama and some spice you have another great read by Kelsie!
July 26, 2026
I am not surprised K. Rae has wrote another 5 star banger in my eyes.. because honestly the girl can do no wrong on this side of the book space.
Resist Me is Ford & June Bug's story. The youngest brother in the Harden family trio. June is Violets best friend. I may be a little partial to her because she is a dental assistant, aspiring to be a dental hygienist- but, that's not here or there.
Ford is the playboy of all playboys. Until June gives him a run for his money. At first she isn't sure if she should take his flirting seriously because well- he flirts with EVERYONE.. but when she gets a firefighter boyfriend Ford realizes he better shoot his shot or back off. It was really nice to see Kelsie break down Ford's walls and allow him to not feel like he was "to much". In the story she lets us see how BIG Ford's personality is- and just how much he uses it as a shield.
Can we talk about the Curvy FMC of it all?! The author didn't make this a "cringe" curvy FMC book. June knew she had curves and although she didn't "flaunt" them- there wasn't a lot of "poor me" energy and she was really giving vibes of - I am who I am. Ford definitely made her feel special in all the way's he dang well should have.
I really enjoyed this book. It fed straight into Hawke (the last brother) and Lexi's story perfectly. I will be on pins and needles waiting for that release; AS ALWAYS.
Thank you to the author and her team for the E-ARC!!
Resist Me is Ford & June Bug's story. The youngest brother in the Harden family trio. June is Violets best friend. I may be a little partial to her because she is a dental assistant, aspiring to be a dental hygienist- but, that's not here or there.
Ford is the playboy of all playboys. Until June gives him a run for his money. At first she isn't sure if she should take his flirting seriously because well- he flirts with EVERYONE.. but when she gets a firefighter boyfriend Ford realizes he better shoot his shot or back off. It was really nice to see Kelsie break down Ford's walls and allow him to not feel like he was "to much". In the story she lets us see how BIG Ford's personality is- and just how much he uses it as a shield.
Can we talk about the Curvy FMC of it all?! The author didn't make this a "cringe" curvy FMC book. June knew she had curves and although she didn't "flaunt" them- there wasn't a lot of "poor me" energy and she was really giving vibes of - I am who I am. Ford definitely made her feel special in all the way's he dang well should have.
I really enjoyed this book. It fed straight into Hawke (the last brother) and Lexi's story perfectly. I will be on pins and needles waiting for that release; AS ALWAYS.
Thank you to the author and her team for the E-ARC!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got an ARC copy from the author to review
Omg where do I begin? This was phenomenal. It picked up where Ruin Me ended by that I mean in the aftermath of the Haunted House Harden Night Event. This is Ford and June’s story. Ford is essentially the playboy of the Harden brothers and June the sweet and innocent best friend of Violet, she also bakes sourdough-yes that is important.
I love how we have June as a plus size FMC she proclaims self confidence in her body but even the most confident women still get in their heads and Kelsie does a great job portraying that. Especially when that a—hole Ethan says things but when Ford intervene ohhh swoon.
Ford is so attracted to June you can just see it oozing off the pages but due to his lifestyle and how he was raised he doesn’t even recognize it right away. Even tho he has that playboy reputation and is drawn to June he doesn’t dive right into sleeping with her he wants to go her at pace. I love that so much.
The added mystery of the events from the Haunted House from Ruin Me as well as some events from this book really keep you invested. Fireman Bryan to me seemed to sweet to be the real deal I really thought he had a hidden agenda.
I can’t wait for the next book. I am secretly hoping it is Hawke and Lexie’s book you just know their book is going to be explosive.
Omg where do I begin? This was phenomenal. It picked up where Ruin Me ended by that I mean in the aftermath of the Haunted House Harden Night Event. This is Ford and June’s story. Ford is essentially the playboy of the Harden brothers and June the sweet and innocent best friend of Violet, she also bakes sourdough-yes that is important.
I love how we have June as a plus size FMC she proclaims self confidence in her body but even the most confident women still get in their heads and Kelsie does a great job portraying that. Especially when that a—hole Ethan says things but when Ford intervene ohhh swoon.
Ford is so attracted to June you can just see it oozing off the pages but due to his lifestyle and how he was raised he doesn’t even recognize it right away. Even tho he has that playboy reputation and is drawn to June he doesn’t dive right into sleeping with her he wants to go her at pace. I love that so much.
The added mystery of the events from the Haunted House from Ruin Me as well as some events from this book really keep you invested. Fireman Bryan to me seemed to sweet to be the real deal I really thought he had a hidden agenda.
I can’t wait for the next book. I am secretly hoping it is Hawke and Lexie’s book you just know their book is going to be explosive.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️
First off, I wanna say this book played like a whole movie in my head. It was that good I saw all the scenes and these characters came to life🥹
June was such a sweet character. Her banter with Ford from the very start was 😚🤌 I appreciated how long this was to be able to give them that time to find eachother after finding others didnt work out. He was there to protect her even if he didnt get her first and it shows how much he cares. I always love a curvy girly and seeing her open up and Blossum with Ford made my heart so warm. I felt the insecurities she had but Ford knocked all those down and made sure she knew she was beautiful😭
We love a possessive man. Yeah we do🙂↕️ Ford was so infatuated from the very start and didnt give up and I EAT IT UP. His name for her, are you kidding😭😭😭 Despite having to see her with others, he knew that was his girl and was the first one to help her in anything she needed. He built that friendship and trust up. Man was so down bad the whole time though 😛 I appreciated his growth so much and he made her feel so loved, beautiful and cherished 🥹
I wont say much other than..... the lap dance. BOYYYYYY, I was grinning so hard. That will forever live rent free in my mind😏
The twist was so well done, I was shocked in all that happened. Trust no one apparently 😭
Thank you Kelsie for the earc🫂
Booksta- romance.with.bri
First off, I wanna say this book played like a whole movie in my head. It was that good I saw all the scenes and these characters came to life🥹
June was such a sweet character. Her banter with Ford from the very start was 😚🤌 I appreciated how long this was to be able to give them that time to find eachother after finding others didnt work out. He was there to protect her even if he didnt get her first and it shows how much he cares. I always love a curvy girly and seeing her open up and Blossum with Ford made my heart so warm. I felt the insecurities she had but Ford knocked all those down and made sure she knew she was beautiful😭
We love a possessive man. Yeah we do🙂↕️ Ford was so infatuated from the very start and didnt give up and I EAT IT UP. His name for her, are you kidding😭😭😭 Despite having to see her with others, he knew that was his girl and was the first one to help her in anything she needed. He built that friendship and trust up. Man was so down bad the whole time though 😛 I appreciated his growth so much and he made her feel so loved, beautiful and cherished 🥹
I wont say much other than..... the lap dance. BOYYYYYY, I was grinning so hard. That will forever live rent free in my mind😏
The twist was so well done, I was shocked in all that happened. Trust no one apparently 😭
Thank you Kelsie for the earc🫂
Booksta- romance.with.bri
Review of advance copy received from Author
I DON’T WANT TO RUN. NOT FROM HER.
4.5|5 STARS >>
Resist Me is the second book in the Harden Heights series by Kelsie Rae, and it follows the story of Ford Harden and June Withers. I was lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC, and I could not wait to see how June & Ford's story would unfold. After reading Ruin Me, I genuinely couldn't imagine how the ultimate playboy was going to end up completely head over heels. Looking back, I don't know why I ever doubted Kelsie Rae—she never disappoints! Ford and June had me hooked from the very beginning. Their chemistry was undeniable, and watching their relationship develop was everything I hoped it would be and more.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was June’s perception of herself throughout the book. . As a curvy FMC, she brought a level of realism to the story that is sometimes missed when FMC’s are portrayed as an unattainable beauty standard or size.. Kelsie did such a wonderful job portraying June as confident, strong, and worthy of love while also acknowledging the insecurities and stigma that many curvy women face. It felt authentic, relatable, and incredibly refreshing.
Kelsie Rae continues to prove why she's one of my favorite authors. She creates characters that are impossible not to root for, delivers emotional depth alongside swoon-worthy romance, and somehow leaves
4.5|5 STARS >>
Resist Me is the second book in the Harden Heights series by Kelsie Rae, and it follows the story of Ford Harden and June Withers. I was lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC, and I could not wait to see how June & Ford's story would unfold. After reading Ruin Me, I genuinely couldn't imagine how the ultimate playboy was going to end up completely head over heels. Looking back, I don't know why I ever doubted Kelsie Rae—she never disappoints! Ford and June had me hooked from the very beginning. Their chemistry was undeniable, and watching their relationship develop was everything I hoped it would be and more.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was June’s perception of herself throughout the book. . As a curvy FMC, she brought a level of realism to the story that is sometimes missed when FMC’s are portrayed as an unattainable beauty standard or size.. Kelsie did such a wonderful job portraying June as confident, strong, and worthy of love while also acknowledging the insecurities and stigma that many curvy women face. It felt authentic, relatable, and incredibly refreshing.
Kelsie Rae continues to prove why she's one of my favorite authors. She creates characters that are impossible not to root for, delivers emotional depth alongside swoon-worthy romance, and somehow leaves
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kelsie Rae did it again! Resist Me is the ultimate irony because this book is absolutely impossible to resist!
Ford may have the reputation of being the Harden brother who's a notorious playboy, but he believes June deserves someone better than him. Determined not to drag her into his world, he tries to keep his distance—until he realizes staying away from her is impossible. June knows all about Ford's reputation, yet she sees the kind, protective man beneath the surface and the person he's trying so hard to become.
When June starts dating Brian, a charming firefighter, Ford is forced to confront feelings he's been burying for far too long. As jealousy, family trauma, house fires, mob drama, Harden Nights, tutoring sessions, and emotional healing collide, Ford must decide if he's finally ready to fight for the woman he loves.
Ford's journey was my favorite part of this story. Watching him overcome his past while remaining fiercely protective and determined made him impossible not to root for. The chemistry between Ford and June was incredible, and their slow-burn romance was worth every page.
Kelsie Rae delivered another emotional, addictive romance filled with heart, tension, and unforgettable characters. If you love protective heroes, slow-burn romance, jealous heroes, and emotional character growth, Resist Me is a must-read!
Ford may have the reputation of being the Harden brother who's a notorious playboy, but he believes June deserves someone better than him. Determined not to drag her into his world, he tries to keep his distance—until he realizes staying away from her is impossible. June knows all about Ford's reputation, yet she sees the kind, protective man beneath the surface and the person he's trying so hard to become.
When June starts dating Brian, a charming firefighter, Ford is forced to confront feelings he's been burying for far too long. As jealousy, family trauma, house fires, mob drama, Harden Nights, tutoring sessions, and emotional healing collide, Ford must decide if he's finally ready to fight for the woman he loves.
Ford's journey was my favorite part of this story. Watching him overcome his past while remaining fiercely protective and determined made him impossible not to root for. The chemistry between Ford and June was incredible, and their slow-burn romance was worth every page.
Kelsie Rae delivered another emotional, addictive romance filled with heart, tension, and unforgettable characters. If you love protective heroes, slow-burn romance, jealous heroes, and emotional character growth, Resist Me is a must-read!
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