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Better with You: A With You Series Novel
Willa
Our meadery is tanking (no pun intended) and my brother, Eric, could lose everything he’s worked so hard for. Because of me. It’s my fault. I’ve allowed our finances to slip and there’s no solution in sight. That is, until his best friend Cain comes back to our hometown of Bywood, New Hampshire for the first time in ten years—and he isn’t the lanky teenager I remember all those years ago. He still wears that mischievous smile, has a knack for trouble, and teases the hell out of me, but now it’s not so innocent. With our business’ future up in the air and my heart on the line, everything is feeling completely out of control.
Cain
As a travel photographer for a prominent, national magazine, I’ve spent the last decade on the road. There’s always been a hollowness I can’t quite fill, and I thought escaping Bywood was the answer. Then, I found myself coming back, searching for a home I feel I’ve never had. Eric and Willa are the only people who are practically family to me, so learning that their business is failing has me scrambling for a way to make up for my ten-year absence. But Willa isn’t the brace-faced freshman I left behind, and falling for my best friend’s sister was never part of the plan.
Our meadery is tanking (no pun intended) and my brother, Eric, could lose everything he’s worked so hard for. Because of me. It’s my fault. I’ve allowed our finances to slip and there’s no solution in sight. That is, until his best friend Cain comes back to our hometown of Bywood, New Hampshire for the first time in ten years—and he isn’t the lanky teenager I remember all those years ago. He still wears that mischievous smile, has a knack for trouble, and teases the hell out of me, but now it’s not so innocent. With our business’ future up in the air and my heart on the line, everything is feeling completely out of control.
Cain
As a travel photographer for a prominent, national magazine, I’ve spent the last decade on the road. There’s always been a hollowness I can’t quite fill, and I thought escaping Bywood was the answer. Then, I found myself coming back, searching for a home I feel I’ve never had. Eric and Willa are the only people who are practically family to me, so learning that their business is failing has me scrambling for a way to make up for my ten-year absence. But Willa isn’t the brace-faced freshman I left behind, and falling for my best friend’s sister was never part of the plan.
204 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 23, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
April 10, 2026
This was the perfect spring/ summer read. Sometimes you just need a happy romantic story in your life and this was it!
Our main FMC is very relatable, the MMC is will make you giggle and kick your feet with his witty banter. Side characters also stand out.
The writing in this book is perfectly paced. You never really feel as if it’s being rushed or dragging on. The setting of the book is very fitting to the story and you almost want to visit there.
If you want a fun and romantic vacation read this is the book for you!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Our main FMC is very relatable, the MMC is will make you giggle and kick your feet with his witty banter. Side characters also stand out.
The writing in this book is perfectly paced. You never really feel as if it’s being rushed or dragging on. The setting of the book is very fitting to the story and you almost want to visit there.
If you want a fun and romantic vacation read this is the book for you!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 2, 2026
Cain and Willa are childhood friends. He is also Willas brothers best friend… on his return into town he re-evaluates his life and decides to stick around. It helps that he also falls head over heels for Willa. I really enjoyed this cute book. It has the perfect ending and introduces so many other characters (I need an Eric book asap).
April 29, 2026
that was adorable.
Cain and Willa just had so much chemistry, and the characters were so lovable!! they were pretty 2 dimensional, but it was still a fun time!
Tropes:
- small town
- brothers best friend
- childhood friends
Thank you LoveNotes PR for this arc!
Cain and Willa just had so much chemistry, and the characters were so lovable!! they were pretty 2 dimensional, but it was still a fun time!
Tropes:
- small town
- brothers best friend
- childhood friends
Thank you LoveNotes PR for this arc!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Better With You 🌻
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Minta Hannon for trusting me with this ARC!💚
Willa,& her brother,are about to lose everything,due to a slipping in their finances.
Caused by her.
As her regrets sorrow with the days passing,Cain a man that has not seen in 10 years,comes back,and maybe he is the solution to everything she needs. & Not just with money.
I will say one thing.PERFECT BOOK FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON.☀️
You cannot possibly understand how good vibes this book has & how easily you can read it.It just flows,like the seasons.Myself,I read it on a sunny day on my getaway to Slovakia,while looking up at the river,and I could not,not suggest doing the same.
Now,getting into our characters,
Willa is panic mode,cutetsy girl,chaos,and beauty all in one.I absolutely enjoyed reading every scene of her,and my favorite act was the woman she slowly turned into when she accepted her love for our boy,Cain.She appeared more confident,renewed and generally a Willa that you haven't experienced in the first 50%-60% of the book.
Cain,also really surprised me,mostly because of his back story.I really liked the aesthetic of him,his job and when I finally met HIM.Not the photographer,or the boy who left,the surprise was big of who cute he was,literally boyfriend material.🌪️
However,those two did not just have a romance,but they also had A JOB to do. Particulary,the whole journey of we have a problem,what are we gonna do,doing it etc.was really enjoyable to read from my reading perspective,and it also had some fun inside,which brings us back to my first point,that it is AMAZING for late spring🪴/summertime.🏝️
So,if you love beautiful romances,saving our shop kind of a trope,or a good book to read in general,Better with You is the perfect book for you
Out On Apr,23th 🦋
4⭐
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Minta Hannon for trusting me with this ARC!💚
Willa,& her brother,are about to lose everything,due to a slipping in their finances.
Caused by her.
As her regrets sorrow with the days passing,Cain a man that has not seen in 10 years,comes back,and maybe he is the solution to everything she needs. & Not just with money.
I will say one thing.PERFECT BOOK FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON.☀️
You cannot possibly understand how good vibes this book has & how easily you can read it.It just flows,like the seasons.Myself,I read it on a sunny day on my getaway to Slovakia,while looking up at the river,and I could not,not suggest doing the same.
Now,getting into our characters,
Willa is panic mode,cutetsy girl,chaos,and beauty all in one.I absolutely enjoyed reading every scene of her,and my favorite act was the woman she slowly turned into when she accepted her love for our boy,Cain.She appeared more confident,renewed and generally a Willa that you haven't experienced in the first 50%-60% of the book.
Cain,also really surprised me,mostly because of his back story.I really liked the aesthetic of him,his job and when I finally met HIM.Not the photographer,or the boy who left,the surprise was big of who cute he was,literally boyfriend material.🌪️
However,those two did not just have a romance,but they also had A JOB to do. Particulary,the whole journey of we have a problem,what are we gonna do,doing it etc.was really enjoyable to read from my reading perspective,and it also had some fun inside,which brings us back to my first point,that it is AMAZING for late spring🪴/summertime.🏝️
So,if you love beautiful romances,saving our shop kind of a trope,or a good book to read in general,Better with You is the perfect book for you
Out On Apr,23th 🦋
4⭐
April 26, 2026
3.25 stars
This was a cute, quick read about second chance love when Willa’s older brother’s best friend (and her childhood friend) Cain returns home for a visit after traveling everywhere as a photographer for a magazine. Cain is shocked to see the 14 year old girl he left having transformed into a beautiful, witty 24 year old woman. For Willa, Cain was her childhood friend that defended and protected her and now stands before her as a hot, backwards hat wearing (IYKYK) man.
They come together, along with Willa’s brother Eric, to save the meadery Willa and Eric opened, but that has unfortunately come under financial difficulties as many small businesses do. Feelings happen on all sides as they fight to save the business and re-establish their friendships… and potentially something more.
Spoiler:
This was a cute read but I think it was almost too quick. Eric almost immediately is fine with their dating. Cain changes his career and life plan in a page. Willa has all of the emotions quickly - rage to happiness in a couple of lines.
I loved the setting and the premise. And for being the sort story, it was perfect. But I would have loved more story as the town and everyone in it had so much appeal.
This was a cute, quick read about second chance love when Willa’s older brother’s best friend (and her childhood friend) Cain returns home for a visit after traveling everywhere as a photographer for a magazine. Cain is shocked to see the 14 year old girl he left having transformed into a beautiful, witty 24 year old woman. For Willa, Cain was her childhood friend that defended and protected her and now stands before her as a hot, backwards hat wearing (IYKYK) man.
They come together, along with Willa’s brother Eric, to save the meadery Willa and Eric opened, but that has unfortunately come under financial difficulties as many small businesses do. Feelings happen on all sides as they fight to save the business and re-establish their friendships… and potentially something more.
Spoiler:
This was a cute read but I think it was almost too quick. Eric almost immediately is fine with their dating. Cain changes his career and life plan in a page. Willa has all of the emotions quickly - rage to happiness in a couple of lines.
I loved the setting and the premise. And for being the sort story, it was perfect. But I would have loved more story as the town and everyone in it had so much appeal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2026
2.25 rounded down
I really wanted to love this book. The cover is so cute, and it’s littered with tropes i generally love. Unfortunately, it just was a major miss for me.
First, I feel like I was placed in the middle of an ongoing story. I wanted more back story and more about the characters. I think this would would excel as a dual timeline book. I think a lot of the issues I had with the book would actually be solved by that.
My other issue is the book was very much insta-love (which is FINE, i don’t dislike instalove) the issue I had with it is that Cain and Willa had 0 chemistry. I need it to be dripping off the page for instalove to work.. and since we didn’t get much backstory on them, it didn’t feel like a “it’s always been you” type of chemistry either. I just felt like…. here we like each other and here’s what we do to prove it, but didn’t show me much at all.
Other than that, the mead and their business actually really interested me! I really liked all the info at the beginning because the passion Willa had about it drew me in.
I would definitely give this author another chance, but unfortunately this just didn’t work for me.
The Vibes:
-Brother’s Best Friend
-Childhood Friends to Lovers
-Found Family
-Small Town
-Business in Trouble
I really wanted to love this book. The cover is so cute, and it’s littered with tropes i generally love. Unfortunately, it just was a major miss for me.
First, I feel like I was placed in the middle of an ongoing story. I wanted more back story and more about the characters. I think this would would excel as a dual timeline book. I think a lot of the issues I had with the book would actually be solved by that.
My other issue is the book was very much insta-love (which is FINE, i don’t dislike instalove) the issue I had with it is that Cain and Willa had 0 chemistry. I need it to be dripping off the page for instalove to work.. and since we didn’t get much backstory on them, it didn’t feel like a “it’s always been you” type of chemistry either. I just felt like…. here we like each other and here’s what we do to prove it, but didn’t show me much at all.
Other than that, the mead and their business actually really interested me! I really liked all the info at the beginning because the passion Willa had about it drew me in.
I would definitely give this author another chance, but unfortunately this just didn’t work for me.
The Vibes:
-Brother’s Best Friend
-Childhood Friends to Lovers
-Found Family
-Small Town
-Business in Trouble
April 28, 2026
"He always has been and will always be my most treasured memory."
Willa and Cain. What a gorgeous pairing of two souls. This book was such a joy to read, and Minta Hannon is now firmly on my author radar!
Cain is Willa's childhood friend and her brother's best friend. He returns to their small town after 10 years away.
Willa's childhood crush is all grown up and so is she!
The chemistry between the two is electric right from the beginning, and they both find it hard to ignore.
Both Cain and Willa are incredibly likeable characters. Even Willa's brother is an absolute sweetheart. They all made for a really lovely read when I wanted something light and sweet.
No third act break up, no brother drama, low angst, but a lot of yearning, all bundled into a shorter story that still brought the spice and depth.
You should read this book if you love:
- Open door romance (spicy)
- Brother's best friend
- Small town romance
- Childhood friends-to-lovers
- Found family
- Dual POV
Better with You is available now, including on KU.
Thank you to Minta Hannon and Love Notes PR for the complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Willa and Cain. What a gorgeous pairing of two souls. This book was such a joy to read, and Minta Hannon is now firmly on my author radar!
Cain is Willa's childhood friend and her brother's best friend. He returns to their small town after 10 years away.
Willa's childhood crush is all grown up and so is she!
The chemistry between the two is electric right from the beginning, and they both find it hard to ignore.
Both Cain and Willa are incredibly likeable characters. Even Willa's brother is an absolute sweetheart. They all made for a really lovely read when I wanted something light and sweet.
No third act break up, no brother drama, low angst, but a lot of yearning, all bundled into a shorter story that still brought the spice and depth.
You should read this book if you love:
- Open door romance (spicy)
- Brother's best friend
- Small town romance
- Childhood friends-to-lovers
- Found family
- Dual POV
Better with You is available now, including on KU.
Thank you to Minta Hannon and Love Notes PR for the complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 30, 2026
I had a fun time with Better with You. Cain and Willa are meant to be and you know that from the start. They both yearn for each other and deliver flirty banter almost immediately. It works so well with the childhood friends to lovers trope.
The main plot focuses on Willa and her brother's struggling meadery. We are told so much about how it's not going well and it's all Willa's fault for not properly managing their finances. Yet, that is about all you're told throughout the story. Yes, all the interactions and action are focused at the Meadery and the events they host to bring business, but you don't know what Willa did specifically wrong. It doesn't matter, but as a reader that loves world-building and plot with her romance, I wanted a bit more than a blanket reason.
The romance, however builds well and I love our MCs together! They communicate well, open up to each other, and grow together. Cain and Willa deserve one another and boy did it take Cain a bit to realize that. Sweet Cain deserved it right away (in my opinion!)
I recommend this for anyone wanting a sweet, quick small town romance with a non-confrontational brother's best friend trope.
The main plot focuses on Willa and her brother's struggling meadery. We are told so much about how it's not going well and it's all Willa's fault for not properly managing their finances. Yet, that is about all you're told throughout the story. Yes, all the interactions and action are focused at the Meadery and the events they host to bring business, but you don't know what Willa did specifically wrong. It doesn't matter, but as a reader that loves world-building and plot with her romance, I wanted a bit more than a blanket reason.
The romance, however builds well and I love our MCs together! They communicate well, open up to each other, and grow together. Cain and Willa deserve one another and boy did it take Cain a bit to realize that. Sweet Cain deserved it right away (in my opinion!)
I recommend this for anyone wanting a sweet, quick small town romance with a non-confrontational brother's best friend trope.
May 9, 2026
Book Review: Better With Us 🌻
Better With Us is a sweet small-town romance that blends childhood friends, instant chemistry, and financial/ business struggles in a relatable way.
The romance leans into insta love, but it works well within the context of their shared past and the strong emotional pull they’ve always had toward each other. Their connection feels natural and comforting, especially as they fall back into each other’s lives so easily.
💛
A big part of the story focuses on Willa and her brother’s struggling meadery brewery- Honey an Rye. I really enjoyed how Cain uses his photography skills and connections to help get funds to support Willa and Eric to get back on their feet..it was a thoughtful way to show his care through actions, not just words. The financial stress and fear of failure felt very realistic and relatable.
Overall, Better With Us is a heartfelt, easy to read romance that balances love, friendship, and the challenges of chasing a dream.It’s a great pick if you enjoy small town settings, brother’s best friend tropes, and love stories that feel both comforting and real. HEA.
Better With Us is a sweet small-town romance that blends childhood friends, instant chemistry, and financial/ business struggles in a relatable way.
The romance leans into insta love, but it works well within the context of their shared past and the strong emotional pull they’ve always had toward each other. Their connection feels natural and comforting, especially as they fall back into each other’s lives so easily.
💛
A big part of the story focuses on Willa and her brother’s struggling meadery brewery- Honey an Rye. I really enjoyed how Cain uses his photography skills and connections to help get funds to support Willa and Eric to get back on their feet..it was a thoughtful way to show his care through actions, not just words. The financial stress and fear of failure felt very realistic and relatable.
Overall, Better With Us is a heartfelt, easy to read romance that balances love, friendship, and the challenges of chasing a dream.It’s a great pick if you enjoy small town settings, brother’s best friend tropes, and love stories that feel both comforting and real. HEA.
April 19, 2026
first of all, thank you so much to the author and love notes PR for giving me the opportunity to read and review this ARC 💖
3🌟
I’m not a big fan of insta-love, since I usually enjoy a slow burn more, but this book is SO sweet that I really loved reading it. However, one trope I absolutely adore is when he’s her brother’s best friend — SIMPLY YES.
It’s a short but addictive story. The author’s writing style is light and very easy to read, and it definitely hooks you in! I did feel like I was missing a bit of connection with the characters, but I think that could have been fixed if the book were longer.
And also, if you're looking for a book to read this summer, i actually think this one is perfect for it! You’ll definitely enjoy reading how Willa and Cain decide to discover and explore the chemistry between them, and watching them fall in love with each other.
It’s a sweet story set in a small town, with some spicy scenes that are 10/10. The perfect book if you’re looking for something light, quick to read, and addictive ☺️🤍
3🌟
I’m not a big fan of insta-love, since I usually enjoy a slow burn more, but this book is SO sweet that I really loved reading it. However, one trope I absolutely adore is when he’s her brother’s best friend — SIMPLY YES.
It’s a short but addictive story. The author’s writing style is light and very easy to read, and it definitely hooks you in! I did feel like I was missing a bit of connection with the characters, but I think that could have been fixed if the book were longer.
And also, if you're looking for a book to read this summer, i actually think this one is perfect for it! You’ll definitely enjoy reading how Willa and Cain decide to discover and explore the chemistry between them, and watching them fall in love with each other.
It’s a sweet story set in a small town, with some spicy scenes that are 10/10. The perfect book if you’re looking for something light, quick to read, and addictive ☺️🤍
Review of advance copy received from Author
Brother and Sister Erik and Willa had a dream of owning a meadery which I admit I had to Google what that was but the business is failing and it’s all Willa’s fault. Apparently because we don’t ever actually found out why it was her fault just that it was. But that’s not really relevant to the story. What is important is just when they are at their darkest time of need Erik’s best friend Cain returns after being gone for 10 years working as a nomad photographer living out of hotels and a single duffle bag. Cain is at a crossroads in his life where nothing is making him happy anymore and seeing his childhood best friends suffer makes him want to help in any way he can. Falling in love with his best friend’s sister was never part of the plan. Can Cain help save his friend’s business, find happiness with his sister and avoid getting punched in the face? Can Willa accept the help she needs, stop feeling guilty about the business and accept Cain’s nomadic ways? Will Erik punch his best friend in the face?
April 25, 2026
Better With You is a small town , childhood friends to lovers, found family, brother’s best friend romance.
I enjoyed reading Better With You. The main characters Willa and Cain were both likable and relatable. The chemistry between them was amazing. Even when they haven’t seen each other in 10 year because Cain is traveling photographer. When they finally see each other again It’s like they just pick up where they let off. Cain comes back into Willa’s life at time were she and her brother are trying to save their business.
This story was told at a good pace and flowed really well. There some moments in the story that emotional but it nothing heavy. This book also have spicy scenes. The spicy scenes were well writing and cheesy. Also they don’t over take the story.
Overall, Better With You is good read. It’s well written and easy to understand . The main characters are good. Willa and Cain ‘s story is cute, funny, spicy and much more. It’s a story that once you start you won’t be able to put it down.
I enjoyed reading Better With You. The main characters Willa and Cain were both likable and relatable. The chemistry between them was amazing. Even when they haven’t seen each other in 10 year because Cain is traveling photographer. When they finally see each other again It’s like they just pick up where they let off. Cain comes back into Willa’s life at time were she and her brother are trying to save their business.
This story was told at a good pace and flowed really well. There some moments in the story that emotional but it nothing heavy. This book also have spicy scenes. The spicy scenes were well writing and cheesy. Also they don’t over take the story.
Overall, Better With You is good read. It’s well written and easy to understand . The main characters are good. Willa and Cain ‘s story is cute, funny, spicy and much more. It’s a story that once you start you won’t be able to put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cain and Willa
This was an adorable and very sweet brother’s best friend romance. It’s not exactly the usual style as Cain and Willa are also friends… and I love their dynamic.
He’s been away for 10 years, and returns to town just at the moment that their (Willa and her brother Eric’s) business is about to fall apart.
He quickly becomes her safe place, and the friendship soon develops to something more…
Spicy, sweet, very physical. At times lighthearted, yet at others, it gets a bit emotional. Overall though, it still does feel a little shallow emotionally as it touches on Willa’s challenges (her panic/anxiety), but doesn’t truly delve into it.
I thoroughly enjoyed the humour around their reveal, and the lack of angst regarding her brother. It was a welcome change!
Already, getting ideas about Eric’s story… I’m interested to see how that one will come about….
Thanks Minta, for the opportunity to read in advance. I very much enjoyed it.
This was an adorable and very sweet brother’s best friend romance. It’s not exactly the usual style as Cain and Willa are also friends… and I love their dynamic.
He’s been away for 10 years, and returns to town just at the moment that their (Willa and her brother Eric’s) business is about to fall apart.
He quickly becomes her safe place, and the friendship soon develops to something more…
Spicy, sweet, very physical. At times lighthearted, yet at others, it gets a bit emotional. Overall though, it still does feel a little shallow emotionally as it touches on Willa’s challenges (her panic/anxiety), but doesn’t truly delve into it.
I thoroughly enjoyed the humour around their reveal, and the lack of angst regarding her brother. It was a welcome change!
Already, getting ideas about Eric’s story… I’m interested to see how that one will come about….
Thanks Minta, for the opportunity to read in advance. I very much enjoyed it.
April 24, 2026
Better with you by Minta Hannon is a small town romance with the theme of childhood friends to lovers, found family, belonging and a tight knit family.
It revolves around Willa and Cain who are childhood friends and their journey towards love was beautiful. The chemistry between them was terrific and I enjoyed each and every scene between them.
There is also a sibling dynamic between Willa and her brother Eric. Their bond and the way they built their business was amazing to read. The friendship between Eric and Caine truly stole my heart and the trope of brother's best friend in the story was presented really well.
The relationship between Willa's mother and Caine was emotional to read. The motherly love was shown really well. The conversations between them were heartwarming to read.
The narrative pace was really good and it had all the elements of small town romance. The ending did melt my heart.
Enjoyed this book a lot!!
Thank you for the ARC This is my honest opinion!!
It revolves around Willa and Cain who are childhood friends and their journey towards love was beautiful. The chemistry between them was terrific and I enjoyed each and every scene between them.
There is also a sibling dynamic between Willa and her brother Eric. Their bond and the way they built their business was amazing to read. The friendship between Eric and Caine truly stole my heart and the trope of brother's best friend in the story was presented really well.
The relationship between Willa's mother and Caine was emotional to read. The motherly love was shown really well. The conversations between them were heartwarming to read.
The narrative pace was really good and it had all the elements of small town romance. The ending did melt my heart.
Enjoyed this book a lot!!
Thank you for the ARC This is my honest opinion!!
April 29, 2026
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of this book, and overall it was an enjoyable read!
This story is a brother’s best friend/childhood friends-to-lovers romance set in a small town brewery, which was a warm and comforting backdrop. It leans into these familiar tropes nicely, with a smooth and low-drama progression that I liked. I also enjoyed that there was no third act breakup, which suited the story perfectly.
The small-town setting and brewery atmosphere added a lot to the charm of the book. I enjoyed the dynamic between the main characters, especially with their shared history, but the shift into romantic feelings felt sudden, which impacted how invested I was in their relationship which is why I didn’t give it more stars.
That said, this was still a sweet and comforting read that’s perfect if you’re in the mood for something light and tropey, and easy to sink into. It’s a solid choice for fans of small-town romance with familiar dynamics.
⭐ ⭐ ⭐
This story is a brother’s best friend/childhood friends-to-lovers romance set in a small town brewery, which was a warm and comforting backdrop. It leans into these familiar tropes nicely, with a smooth and low-drama progression that I liked. I also enjoyed that there was no third act breakup, which suited the story perfectly.
The small-town setting and brewery atmosphere added a lot to the charm of the book. I enjoyed the dynamic between the main characters, especially with their shared history, but the shift into romantic feelings felt sudden, which impacted how invested I was in their relationship which is why I didn’t give it more stars.
That said, this was still a sweet and comforting read that’s perfect if you’re in the mood for something light and tropey, and easy to sink into. It’s a solid choice for fans of small-town romance with familiar dynamics.
⭐ ⭐ ⭐
April 20, 2026
Thank you Minta and Love Notes PR for the opportunity to read this book as an ARC✨
4⭐️ and 2.5🌶️
Let me start by saying this was a cute small town friends to lovers (and also, brothers best friend which is 🤌🏼amazing) and I really enjoyed the book! The story was cute and the characters were cute and everything was so cute😭
Cain and Willa's relationship was written in such a beautiful way! it did feel a tiny insta lovey imo but at the same time it's not insta love because they knew each other as kids? I mean, their relationship developed from friends to lovers in a month but at the same time the haven't seen each other in 10 years? I like slow burn a lot more that insta love but I didn't care that much in this case because the story was pretty entertaining!❤️ also no third act breakup? SIGN ME UP🤌🏼
Go read this book!✨
4⭐️ and 2.5🌶️
Let me start by saying this was a cute small town friends to lovers (and also, brothers best friend which is 🤌🏼amazing) and I really enjoyed the book! The story was cute and the characters were cute and everything was so cute😭
Cain and Willa's relationship was written in such a beautiful way! it did feel a tiny insta lovey imo but at the same time it's not insta love because they knew each other as kids? I mean, their relationship developed from friends to lovers in a month but at the same time the haven't seen each other in 10 years? I like slow burn a lot more that insta love but I didn't care that much in this case because the story was pretty entertaining!❤️ also no third act breakup? SIGN ME UP🤌🏼
Go read this book!✨
April 30, 2026
4/5⭐️
I have to say, this was the perfect spring/summer read. It made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I can say that reading this book really gave me a nice break from the chaos of my every day job, so I totally recommend it.
Willa and Cain had the most beautiful second chance romance that really gave me a refresh from reading dark and gritty stuff. The FMC is relatable and MMC will make you blush and kick your feet like a teenage girl when she gets her first crush.
There is no third act break up, which I love because my stress levels can go haywire, no brother drama, low angst and a looot of yearning. All I'm saying, if a man yearns, he earns. And Cain earned Willa's heart.
A big shout to Love Notes Pr and Minta Hannon for the eARC.
📖brother's best friend
📖childhood friends-to-lovers
📖found family
📖small town
📖business in trouble
I have to say, this was the perfect spring/summer read. It made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I can say that reading this book really gave me a nice break from the chaos of my every day job, so I totally recommend it.
Willa and Cain had the most beautiful second chance romance that really gave me a refresh from reading dark and gritty stuff. The FMC is relatable and MMC will make you blush and kick your feet like a teenage girl when she gets her first crush.
There is no third act break up, which I love because my stress levels can go haywire, no brother drama, low angst and a looot of yearning. All I'm saying, if a man yearns, he earns. And Cain earned Willa's heart.
A big shout to Love Notes Pr and Minta Hannon for the eARC.
📖brother's best friend
📖childhood friends-to-lovers
📖found family
📖small town
📖business in trouble
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arc review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Tropes
☀️Childhood Friends to lovers
🌻Brothers best friend
☀️Found family
🌻Fiction Small Town
☀️Business in trouble
This was a short cute and easy read that felt very lighthearted and so Nice and perfect for the summer the book wasn’t long with was nice, since it got straight to the point and none off the long dragged out stories
Willa is overwhelmed being a small business owner with her brother and when childhood friend Cain comes back to town
She realizes how hard she worked and overwhelmed she is
Together they find each other help each other and explore their feelings
This book was very easy to get into and well written
If you’re looking for something light and quick summer read I recommend this book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Tropes
☀️Childhood Friends to lovers
🌻Brothers best friend
☀️Found family
🌻Fiction Small Town
☀️Business in trouble
This was a short cute and easy read that felt very lighthearted and so Nice and perfect for the summer the book wasn’t long with was nice, since it got straight to the point and none off the long dragged out stories
Willa is overwhelmed being a small business owner with her brother and when childhood friend Cain comes back to town
She realizes how hard she worked and overwhelmed she is
Together they find each other help each other and explore their feelings
This book was very easy to get into and well written
If you’re looking for something light and quick summer read I recommend this book
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
⭐ 3.5 stars
ARC read
i loved this book so so much and enjoyed reading !!!!
coming back to hometown after 10 years and losing all of his family and always feeling that he does not fit with his friend's family, who he basically grew up together
and falling in love with his bestfriend's sister
it is a small town romance and as a small town romance lover, i loved this book as well
it kinda felt like love-at-first-sight which was not a fan of, but it was lovely, Cain helping Eric and Willa from saving their own shop by using his speciality of taking pictures and publishing as a magazing and taking an exhibition was heartwarming
highly recommend if you love the trope love-at-first-sight with small town romance !
ARC read
i loved this book so so much and enjoyed reading !!!!
coming back to hometown after 10 years and losing all of his family and always feeling that he does not fit with his friend's family, who he basically grew up together
and falling in love with his bestfriend's sister
it is a small town romance and as a small town romance lover, i loved this book as well
it kinda felt like love-at-first-sight which was not a fan of, but it was lovely, Cain helping Eric and Willa from saving their own shop by using his speciality of taking pictures and publishing as a magazing and taking an exhibition was heartwarming
highly recommend if you love the trope love-at-first-sight with small town romance !
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review:
This was the first book by Minta that I have read. It was a cute story of Willa and her brother Eric and his best friend, Cain. Cain left their small town 10 years ago and he has been traveling all around the world as a photographer. Cain has always felt like something was missing and until he comes back home and sees Willa again, he couldn't figure out what that was. Eric and Willa are about to lose their Meadery and Cain steps in with an offer to photograph it to help with business and notoriety. Cain also begins to help out and he a Willa become close again. They are worried about telling Eric about their relationship but he kind of already figured it out.
This is a story of found family, small town love and friendship. If you want a light, happily ever after read; this is a great story!
This was the first book by Minta that I have read. It was a cute story of Willa and her brother Eric and his best friend, Cain. Cain left their small town 10 years ago and he has been traveling all around the world as a photographer. Cain has always felt like something was missing and until he comes back home and sees Willa again, he couldn't figure out what that was. Eric and Willa are about to lose their Meadery and Cain steps in with an offer to photograph it to help with business and notoriety. Cain also begins to help out and he a Willa become close again. They are worried about telling Eric about their relationship but he kind of already figured it out.
This is a story of found family, small town love and friendship. If you want a light, happily ever after read; this is a great story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
Thank you love notes for the ARC of this book! It was so cute, and is the perfect spring/summer read. The setting was so fun, I also loved that it was at a meadery, which is different than the typical brewery. I LOVED Willa and Cain! I also loved that while this was a brother's best friend trope it was done really well. Willa's older brother was so mature about the whole situation and I really appreciated that it wasn't the typical not speaking to each other type situation. The writing here was also really beautiful and overall the romance and banter was so good. I also loved that this book was only 200 pages. It felt like the perfect length. Overall I will definitely be reading more from this author.
April 29, 2026
3⭐️ Read
First I want to thank Love Notes PR for an ARC of this book. 📕
Even though this wasn’t my favorite read it was still a ok book. At first I didn’t like Willa but getting more into the book I started to like her. Loved how Cain came to visit and decided to stay and help Willa and Eric with their family business and then Willa and Cain fell in love with each other. Liked the friendship between Eric and Cain in this book. I also liked Willa and Cain’s mother in this book too. And I also loved how Willa and Cain were cat parents in this book too. And I was so proud of Willa for getting help from Cain to save their business. And I was happy that Cain and Willa got an happy ending together.
First I want to thank Love Notes PR for an ARC of this book. 📕
Even though this wasn’t my favorite read it was still a ok book. At first I didn’t like Willa but getting more into the book I started to like her. Loved how Cain came to visit and decided to stay and help Willa and Eric with their family business and then Willa and Cain fell in love with each other. Liked the friendship between Eric and Cain in this book. I also liked Willa and Cain’s mother in this book too. And I also loved how Willa and Cain were cat parents in this book too. And I was so proud of Willa for getting help from Cain to save their business. And I was happy that Cain and Willa got an happy ending together.
April 30, 2026
ARC Book Review
🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶🌶🌶
I am such a sucker for brother's best friend stories! They just speak to me since my first love was my brother's best friend. Even though he passed away I still feel close to him when I read stories with this trope!
Willa and Cain's story did not disappoint at all! I felt for Willa having to deal with her families business going under and it being her fault? Has to be difficult! But life has a funny way of sending you what you need at certain times and it's not always what you'd expect. Life brought Cain back into Willa's life just when she needed him to.
This is a cute, easy to read story with a great pace! Can't wait for more from Minta!
Thank you to Lovenotes.pr and Minta Hannon for sending me this book to read and review!
🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶🌶🌶
I am such a sucker for brother's best friend stories! They just speak to me since my first love was my brother's best friend. Even though he passed away I still feel close to him when I read stories with this trope!
Willa and Cain's story did not disappoint at all! I felt for Willa having to deal with her families business going under and it being her fault? Has to be difficult! But life has a funny way of sending you what you need at certain times and it's not always what you'd expect. Life brought Cain back into Willa's life just when she needed him to.
This is a cute, easy to read story with a great pace! Can't wait for more from Minta!
Thank you to Lovenotes.pr and Minta Hannon for sending me this book to read and review!
April 30, 2026
✨Arc Review✨
So unfortunately this was a miss for me. It has all the tropes I like and the cover is amazing but it didn’t work for me. Normally I enjoy a insta love romance but here I couldn’t really connect with the main characters. I could see that they liked each other because they were friends for so long and their banter was super fun but neither of them made me feel like they were made for each other. I felt like they did what was supposed to do and not that they really fell in love.
I liked the found family that was presented and also the brotherhood between Cain and Eric.
I feel like this would’ve worked better if it had a dual timeline so we could get a better background on them and their connection and feelings.
So unfortunately this was a miss for me. It has all the tropes I like and the cover is amazing but it didn’t work for me. Normally I enjoy a insta love romance but here I couldn’t really connect with the main characters. I could see that they liked each other because they were friends for so long and their banter was super fun but neither of them made me feel like they were made for each other. I felt like they did what was supposed to do and not that they really fell in love.
I liked the found family that was presented and also the brotherhood between Cain and Eric.
I feel like this would’ve worked better if it had a dual timeline so we could get a better background on them and their connection and feelings.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A sweet and spicy fast paced brother’s best friend romance that will have you laughing out loud. They were always meant to be they just needed to find their way back to one another.
This is a perfect read for the summer. These two were so cute together. The whole book was great!
Willa is overwhelmed being a small business owner with her brother. She didn’t realize she was until her brother’s best friend, and her friend, Cain Donahue comes back to town. Ten years he’s been gone and but he still feels like home to Willa.
I really enjoyed these two. Their banter was fun to read. Highly recommended.
Thanks to LoveNotes Pr and the author for my review copy.
This is a perfect read for the summer. These two were so cute together. The whole book was great!
Willa is overwhelmed being a small business owner with her brother. She didn’t realize she was until her brother’s best friend, and her friend, Cain Donahue comes back to town. Ten years he’s been gone and but he still feels like home to Willa.
I really enjoyed these two. Their banter was fun to read. Highly recommended.
Thanks to LoveNotes Pr and the author for my review copy.
Read
April 13, 2026Willa Cain and Eric have been best friends since they were little kids , Cain and Eric are the same age and Willa is Eric little sister which also followed them around . Ten years ago Cain left to find himself and became a famous photographer while Eric and Willa hane developed a mead making business named Honey & Rye but they have financial problems . Cain finally comes back home and is willing to help them . Both his and Willa's feelings cannot be ingnored anymore so they create their little family with Gremlin their kitten .
I received this book from the author and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own .
I received this book from the author and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own .
Review of advance copy
Looking for a day read with a cute romance? Look no further, because Better With You delivers! When childhood best friends, Willa and Cain, reunite upon his return to their small town in New Hampshire, it’s just as the news comes in that Willa, and her brother Eric’s, business is showing signs of failing.
Looking to make up for the decade spent away from the siblings, Cain decides to put his photography skills and contacts to use, hoping that a feature on their meadry will help their struggling business.
Amid the photos and the events drawing in crowds, Willa and Cain must also navigate the feelings that never quite faded with the ten year divide.
Looking to make up for the decade spent away from the siblings, Cain decides to put his photography skills and contacts to use, hoping that a feature on their meadry will help their struggling business.
Amid the photos and the events drawing in crowds, Willa and Cain must also navigate the feelings that never quite faded with the ten year divide.
Review of advance copy received from Author
this was such a soft, easy spring romance 🥹
brother’s best friend… but also already friends?? I loved that dynamic so much
Cain coming back after 10 years and instantly slipping into Willa’s life again just felt so natural
he becomes her safe place without even trying… and I really liked how their friendship slowly shifted into something more 🫶
it’s sweet, flirty, a little spicy, and very easy to read
I did wish the emotional depth went a bit further, especially with Willa’s anxiety being touched on but not fully explored
but overall? this was light, fun, and such a comforting read 🌸
also… the humour + lack of brother drama?? refreshing 😭👏
brother’s best friend… but also already friends?? I loved that dynamic so much
Cain coming back after 10 years and instantly slipping into Willa’s life again just felt so natural
he becomes her safe place without even trying… and I really liked how their friendship slowly shifted into something more 🫶
it’s sweet, flirty, a little spicy, and very easy to read
I did wish the emotional depth went a bit further, especially with Willa’s anxiety being touched on but not fully explored
but overall? this was light, fun, and such a comforting read 🌸
also… the humour + lack of brother drama?? refreshing 😭👏
April 26, 2026
ARC review
Antecdotal thoughts while reading
Cain and Willa
Oh no Willa, what's going on girlfriend??
Asking for help is hard!!
Willa and Eric = siblings who co-own a business
Cain, why returning to the old stomping grounds? Why is everything in storage?
Cain are you making a threat...or a promise...
🌻 🎤 = $? = broken👃 ouch!
Cain "I'm fine. This is all fine." Ha!
🐱
📷 🍷 🛢 = joy
"Lefty is hanging on by a thread and righty isn't far behind..." 🤣
Cornhole + mud = 🚿 = ❤️
Food fight!! 🤣🤣
Nature taking over, unmaintained area, "grass", and a dark night all equal a 🐁 running by. Eek!!!
The personal growth each character went through in this book was amazing to read and feel.
Antecdotal thoughts while reading
Cain and Willa
Oh no Willa, what's going on girlfriend??
Asking for help is hard!!
Willa and Eric = siblings who co-own a business
Cain, why returning to the old stomping grounds? Why is everything in storage?
Cain are you making a threat...or a promise...
🌻 🎤 = $? = broken👃 ouch!
Cain "I'm fine. This is all fine." Ha!
🐱
📷 🍷 🛢 = joy
"Lefty is hanging on by a thread and righty isn't far behind..." 🤣
Cornhole + mud = 🚿 = ❤️
Food fight!! 🤣🤣
Nature taking over, unmaintained area, "grass", and a dark night all equal a 🐁 running by. Eek!!!
The personal growth each character went through in this book was amazing to read and feel.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a sweet and lighthearted brother’s best friend romance.
Cain returns to town after ten years, just as Willa and her brother Eric’s meadery is struggling. Though they were all friends as kids, Cain quickly becomes Willa’s safe place, and their friendship turns into something more. The romance is cute and fun, with a little bit of spice and some moments of emotional depth. The lack of unnecessary drama with her brother was a nice touch too.
This is a quick, easy read and I enjoyed it.
Cain returns to town after ten years, just as Willa and her brother Eric’s meadery is struggling. Though they were all friends as kids, Cain quickly becomes Willa’s safe place, and their friendship turns into something more. The romance is cute and fun, with a little bit of spice and some moments of emotional depth. The lack of unnecessary drama with her brother was a nice touch too.
This is a quick, easy read and I enjoyed it.
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