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Research Purposes: An Emotional Small Town Second Chance Rancher Romance
When your life is falling apart, the last thing you need is a work trip, a wool blanket, and a rugged rancher to further unravel it.
Hazel's marriage is hanging by a thread, and a research trip to Dark Sky County is supposed to be her last chance to do something for herself before committing to the future her husband has planned.
Instead, she finds Noah. The man she never got over. The man who broke her heart, but still feels like home.
Now a rancher and MMA coach, Noah has spent years building a life that's steady, controlled, and deliberately small. Until Hazel shows up at his ranch, unearthing everything he thought he had buried.
Long days on the field blur into quiet nights under endless skies. Boundaries fade. And the life Hazel has been clinging to becomes impossible to ignore.
She came to Dark Sky County for work. Now she's telling herself she's staying for…research purposes.
Because the life she's built with her husband isn't the one she wants.
But some choices don't come without consequences. And the life Hazel left behind isn't willing to let her go.
What started out as a temporary assignment might turn into something far greater—a second chance that could change everything.
But this time, choosing him means losing everything else.
An emotional, angsty small-town second chance romance with rugged ranchers, strong friendships, light suspense, and no easy choices.
Content Note: Includes marital emotional abuse, off-page infidelity, military-related PTSD, and elements of cyber harassment and blackmail.
Hazel's marriage is hanging by a thread, and a research trip to Dark Sky County is supposed to be her last chance to do something for herself before committing to the future her husband has planned.
Instead, she finds Noah. The man she never got over. The man who broke her heart, but still feels like home.
Now a rancher and MMA coach, Noah has spent years building a life that's steady, controlled, and deliberately small. Until Hazel shows up at his ranch, unearthing everything he thought he had buried.
Long days on the field blur into quiet nights under endless skies. Boundaries fade. And the life Hazel has been clinging to becomes impossible to ignore.
She came to Dark Sky County for work. Now she's telling herself she's staying for…research purposes.
Because the life she's built with her husband isn't the one she wants.
But some choices don't come without consequences. And the life Hazel left behind isn't willing to let her go.
What started out as a temporary assignment might turn into something far greater—a second chance that could change everything.
But this time, choosing him means losing everything else.
An emotional, angsty small-town second chance romance with rugged ranchers, strong friendships, light suspense, and no easy choices.
Content Note: Includes marital emotional abuse, off-page infidelity, military-related PTSD, and elements of cyber harassment and blackmail.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
May 3, 2026
I love the map at the beginning of this book. It ended up being more important than I expected.
We start the story with Hazel, who is on a girls trip with her friends. She is midlife, very scientific minded, and not as happy in life as she could be. Her marriage is complicated, and you can feel that tension early on.
Then we meet Noah. He is prior military, rescues animals, is into structured fighting, and lives a ranching lifestyle. He prefers being alone and out in the wild, but he cannot get one specific woman out of his head. He is down to earth, honest, and steady, which makes him really easy to like.
The story moves between POVs, which I enjoyed. Hazel’s current relationship is toxic, but she feels stuck. Her best friends are really the only light in her life outside of her work. There is also a bit of a small world element and a second chance feel woven in. Things definitely heat up, not just in the gym, and that herbal scene sounded amazing.
This book is intense. Hazel’s life really splits into a before and after, especially as she begins to find some peace in the forest. I will not give anything away, but there is a slight age gap and some heavier topics throughout. I would absolutely recommend checking the author’s warnings, as some elements could be triggering. I liked Noah a lot, but at times I wished things between him and Hazel would slow down.
Just as things start to look brighter for Hazel, darker elements come into play. The story explores abuse, a love triangle, and the idea of a second chance being taken away. It is emotional and at times heart wrenching. I found myself fully invested, even though some of the heavier content felt a bit overdone to drive the point home.
Hazel as a character is complex. At times she is strong and hopeful, and other times she feels fragile and unsure. That inconsistency makes sense given everything she has been through, but it could also feel frustrating.
Noah, on the other hand, feels very consistent. He is strong, troubled, angry, and hurt, but you always understand who he is. As I got closer to the end, I still was not sure how I felt overall. I love a damaged main character and watching them grow into something stronger, but this story has some very intense moments.
By the end, I understood why the map mattered so much. While this one did hit five stars for me, I really appreciated the rustic setting, the emotional journey, and even the lighter, more comical moments with Butters. Hazel’s second chance story does come full circle, and seeing her embrace happiness and love, even in midlife, was really rewarding.
I am really glad I had the chance to read this. It was emotional, intense, and ultimately a meaningful story.
We start the story with Hazel, who is on a girls trip with her friends. She is midlife, very scientific minded, and not as happy in life as she could be. Her marriage is complicated, and you can feel that tension early on.
Then we meet Noah. He is prior military, rescues animals, is into structured fighting, and lives a ranching lifestyle. He prefers being alone and out in the wild, but he cannot get one specific woman out of his head. He is down to earth, honest, and steady, which makes him really easy to like.
The story moves between POVs, which I enjoyed. Hazel’s current relationship is toxic, but she feels stuck. Her best friends are really the only light in her life outside of her work. There is also a bit of a small world element and a second chance feel woven in. Things definitely heat up, not just in the gym, and that herbal scene sounded amazing.
This book is intense. Hazel’s life really splits into a before and after, especially as she begins to find some peace in the forest. I will not give anything away, but there is a slight age gap and some heavier topics throughout. I would absolutely recommend checking the author’s warnings, as some elements could be triggering. I liked Noah a lot, but at times I wished things between him and Hazel would slow down.
Just as things start to look brighter for Hazel, darker elements come into play. The story explores abuse, a love triangle, and the idea of a second chance being taken away. It is emotional and at times heart wrenching. I found myself fully invested, even though some of the heavier content felt a bit overdone to drive the point home.
Hazel as a character is complex. At times she is strong and hopeful, and other times she feels fragile and unsure. That inconsistency makes sense given everything she has been through, but it could also feel frustrating.
Noah, on the other hand, feels very consistent. He is strong, troubled, angry, and hurt, but you always understand who he is. As I got closer to the end, I still was not sure how I felt overall. I love a damaged main character and watching them grow into something stronger, but this story has some very intense moments.
By the end, I understood why the map mattered so much. While this one did hit five stars for me, I really appreciated the rustic setting, the emotional journey, and even the lighter, more comical moments with Butters. Hazel’s second chance story does come full circle, and seeing her embrace happiness and love, even in midlife, was really rewarding.
I am really glad I had the chance to read this. It was emotional, intense, and ultimately a meaningful story.
April 21, 2026
Arc Review - Ok, where do I start? I loved this book so much!! This book brings together my favorite tropes—small-town ranch life and STEM—which is hard to find. Hazel’s life is turned upside down when she crosses paths with a former love and is dealing with the complications of her marriage. The story is complex and messy.
Parts I loved:
- strong character development and the depth given to each character.
-the way the pets were portrayed and the care to give them distinct personalities
-writing style kept me hooked throughout the book
-thoughtful and purposeful side characters
This book had a profound emotional impact on me, in the best possible way. It will leave you crying, laughing and kicking your feet!! This book was my top read for April and will be a top contender for book of the year!
Parts I loved:
- strong character development and the depth given to each character.
-the way the pets were portrayed and the care to give them distinct personalities
-writing style kept me hooked throughout the book
-thoughtful and purposeful side characters
This book had a profound emotional impact on me, in the best possible way. It will leave you crying, laughing and kicking your feet!! This book was my top read for April and will be a top contender for book of the year!
May 4, 2026
4⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
1st person dual POV
Research Purposes was an emotional, character driven second chance romance with nice small town/ranch vibes and a lovable wounded MMC. I really enjoyed the slow reveal of Hazel and Noah’s history. Hazel’s (FMC) journey through betrayal and finding herself again was relatable. With that being said, I do think pacing dragged in some parts.
Tropes + atmosphere:
Second chance
Small town
Slow burn
Toxic ex
Cowboy rancher
Unexpected ally
This was a thoughtful read with emotional themes, healing arcs, and a lovely small town atmosphere. I’m glad I read it and can see why so many readers connected deeply with it.
🌶️🌶️.5
1st person dual POV
Research Purposes was an emotional, character driven second chance romance with nice small town/ranch vibes and a lovable wounded MMC. I really enjoyed the slow reveal of Hazel and Noah’s history. Hazel’s (FMC) journey through betrayal and finding herself again was relatable. With that being said, I do think pacing dragged in some parts.
Tropes + atmosphere:
Second chance
Small town
Slow burn
Toxic ex
Cowboy rancher
Unexpected ally
This was a thoughtful read with emotional themes, healing arcs, and a lovely small town atmosphere. I’m glad I read it and can see why so many readers connected deeply with it.
April 16, 2026
✨ARC Book Review✨
Research Purposes was such a raw, emotional read. Hazel’s life is completely turned upside down as her marriage falls apart, right when she unexpectedly crosses paths with a past lover.
This story is messy and complicated. There are no easy choices, and the lines begin to blur between what is “right” and what she truly wants.
It’s honest, uncomfortable at times, and impossible to put down!
Research Purposes was such a raw, emotional read. Hazel’s life is completely turned upside down as her marriage falls apart, right when she unexpectedly crosses paths with a past lover.
This story is messy and complicated. There are no easy choices, and the lines begin to blur between what is “right” and what she truly wants.
It’s honest, uncomfortable at times, and impossible to put down!
Did Not Finish
April 22, 2026Review of Advanced Reader Copy
I got about sixty pages into this book before realizing it’s not for me. Hazel, the main female character, is married and the male main character isn’t her husband. I don’t feel comfortable with the cheating that I believe will occur in the book. I’m thankful the author sent me a copy and am sure lots of people will enjoy it since the writing is addictive. It simply is not for me.
I got about sixty pages into this book before realizing it’s not for me. Hazel, the main female character, is married and the male main character isn’t her husband. I don’t feel comfortable with the cheating that I believe will occur in the book. I’m thankful the author sent me a copy and am sure lots of people will enjoy it since the writing is addictive. It simply is not for me.
May 7, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
I loved how real the story was, and I loved seeing both characters growing into themselves and growing together!
Also, who doesn’t love a man who makes your latte dreams come true 🙂↔️
& you can’t forget about Butters (iykyk) 🫶🏻
I loved how real the story was, and I loved seeing both characters growing into themselves and growing together!
Also, who doesn’t love a man who makes your latte dreams come true 🙂↔️
& you can’t forget about Butters (iykyk) 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
There are so many things I want to say about this book.
First is thank you so much Rachel for trusting me to read your debut book. It was even better than I could have imagined.
In this book you have Hazel who is trying to make her career and marriage work. Her friends, her Wolfpack, try to help her see that she needs to face some hard things.
Hazel takes a research opportunity with her job, and runs into the last person she ever expected to see again.
Noah, a man who hides himself away from everyone except a few certain people so that he doesn't have to fear what happened in his past happening again.
When Hazel magically appears in his store, he can't believe his luck.
Hazel and Noah try to be friends again, and let's just say history will not let them go.
This book had everything in it. Tension, enemies in the shadows, cyberbullying/stalking, an unexpected ally, and a merino wool sheep who will protect her flock at all costs.
I loved the dynamics between each set of friends and I can definitely see a few more books to make the circle draw tighter and come closer together.
This book does touch a little bit on the PTSD side of being in the military as well as from domestic issues. They are not spoken about in depth, but the shining light on them is a welcome change. To not let the demons win and to make sure if you do suffer to seek the correct help. (Speaking as a person who suffers from several issues related to PTSD - I was not triggered at all)
There are a few scenes that stand out as main points of Hazel and Noah's journey and they are so beautifully written that they will stay with you.
I want to go on and on about this book but I feel I already gave spoilers.
I cannot wait for the next journey to Dark Sky County...or a surrounding area!!
Rachel, you wrote a beautiful and amazing story and I am truly honored that I was able to see the insights, and hype build up to this book.
Thank you for letting me read an early copy of this book.
First is thank you so much Rachel for trusting me to read your debut book. It was even better than I could have imagined.
In this book you have Hazel who is trying to make her career and marriage work. Her friends, her Wolfpack, try to help her see that she needs to face some hard things.
Hazel takes a research opportunity with her job, and runs into the last person she ever expected to see again.
Noah, a man who hides himself away from everyone except a few certain people so that he doesn't have to fear what happened in his past happening again.
When Hazel magically appears in his store, he can't believe his luck.
Hazel and Noah try to be friends again, and let's just say history will not let them go.
This book had everything in it. Tension, enemies in the shadows, cyberbullying/stalking, an unexpected ally, and a merino wool sheep who will protect her flock at all costs.
I loved the dynamics between each set of friends and I can definitely see a few more books to make the circle draw tighter and come closer together.
This book does touch a little bit on the PTSD side of being in the military as well as from domestic issues. They are not spoken about in depth, but the shining light on them is a welcome change. To not let the demons win and to make sure if you do suffer to seek the correct help. (Speaking as a person who suffers from several issues related to PTSD - I was not triggered at all)
There are a few scenes that stand out as main points of Hazel and Noah's journey and they are so beautifully written that they will stay with you.
I want to go on and on about this book but I feel I already gave spoilers.
I cannot wait for the next journey to Dark Sky County...or a surrounding area!!
Rachel, you wrote a beautiful and amazing story and I am truly honored that I was able to see the insights, and hype build up to this book.
Thank you for letting me read an early copy of this book.
May 14, 2026
No research required for this debut novel and newbie author! I thought what I was going to be reading was a Ali Hazlewood style book: scientist on a trip for her research, heading out west and coming across her old flame. But what I got was Ali meets Colleen Hoover with intense romance, suspense, intense heartache, PTSD plus a menacing lover. What a great ride this book was! Hazel is our FMC heading on a trip but also getting a break from her slimy husband. Not physically abusive, but emotional enough that it feels like a physical punch to the gut. She just so happens to pit stop at a local joint in Dark Sky County and run into her past boyfriend. You can totally tell there was intense chemistry between the two and the duo POV gets you filled in on how things were vs now. Noah is a former Army vet with a lot of personal baggage. He's found ways to cope by fighting MMA and running a ranch. The two reconnect but are constantly reminded that Hazel is still in a committed marriage, no matter how dysfunctional it is. My personal favorite main character is from Noah's herd of animals: Butters, the sheep. This ewe is so memorable at the ending...you'll want to read why for yourself. Rachel wrote with so much passion for the main characters and you want to root for them and their stories the entire time. The emotion she pulled out of me as a reader...I can't even! I love reading books and getting my heartstrings tugged, ripped but then mended back together again. My favorite scene: the star bath...IKYK. Rachel does leave this book open to more and with 2 other female and male side characters ready to share their stories, I'm ready to stay at Dark Sky County.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy
Research Purposes is a raw, messy, deeply emotional second-chance romance that feels incredibly real and at times, uncomfortable. Hazel is trapped in an abusive, cheating marriage that isolates her from everyone, and that made her conflict and people-pleasing tendencies feel painfully understandable, especially with her abandonment issues (I loved having a STEM heroine). And then there’s Noah… steady, wounded, carrying his own demons, yet still choosing to do good: the ranch, MMA, and the way he helps others. What truly got me is that their love never died; when they’re together, it feels like no time passed. They feel like home and are the only ones who genuinely make each other laugh. I loved the little details that made me smile like the Pet Playlist, the “Fae Trap” thoughts... and Butters was such a highlight. The found-family (the friends) aspect was strong and comforting, and I really appreciated how PTSD was portrayed. It felt real, and it made me genuinely feel for those who live with it. It’s intense and sometimes overwhelming, but for me, it was powerful, emotional, and hard to forget.
April 30, 2026
Wow. This was such a moving romance. This is a second chance romance, but make sure you read the triggers before reading. Rachel McKenna says she writes about real and messy characters and this one is exactly that. The FMC (Hazel) and MMC (Noah) are going through some real issues. I think books like these are so important for the population who has been there. You really connect with the characters and root SO HARD for the HEA.
The writing was superb and I just couldn't stop reading. I think I finished this in 12 hours (with actual real life responsibilities mixed in that time period). I would love to see even more from these characters and this author.
I would almost consider this a dark romance, just because of some of the issues they are dealing with (*mostly* off page). Think PTSD, Domestic Partner Abuse, Stalking, Emotional Manipulation. But the book itself is inspiring and uplifting. I really and truly you take the time to read this book and feel the things that both Hazel and Noah felt. Highly Recommend!!
The writing was superb and I just couldn't stop reading. I think I finished this in 12 hours (with actual real life responsibilities mixed in that time period). I would love to see even more from these characters and this author.
I would almost consider this a dark romance, just because of some of the issues they are dealing with (*mostly* off page). Think PTSD, Domestic Partner Abuse, Stalking, Emotional Manipulation. But the book itself is inspiring and uplifting. I really and truly you take the time to read this book and feel the things that both Hazel and Noah felt. Highly Recommend!!
May 18, 2026
I received an advanced reader copy of Research Purposes and I genuinely enjoyed this story from start to finish. The character development was one of the strongest parts of the book — Hazel’s POV felt incredibly relatable, and her emotions, insecurities, and experiences were written in such an authentic way that it was easy to connect with her throughout the story.
I also loved the dual perspectives between Hazel and Noah in each chapter. It added so much depth to the story and helped build a stronger emotional connection to both characters and their relationship. Watching their second chance at love unfold from both sides made the story feel even more engaging and heartfelt.
Overall, this was an emotional, relatable, and well-written romance that kept me invested in the characters the entire time. If you enjoy character-driven love stories with strong emotional depth and dual POVs, I would definitely recommend this book.
I also loved the dual perspectives between Hazel and Noah in each chapter. It added so much depth to the story and helped build a stronger emotional connection to both characters and their relationship. Watching their second chance at love unfold from both sides made the story feel even more engaging and heartfelt.
Overall, this was an emotional, relatable, and well-written romance that kept me invested in the characters the entire time. If you enjoy character-driven love stories with strong emotional depth and dual POVs, I would definitely recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into Research Purposes really interested in the emotional premise, and I think that’s ultimately what kept me engaged throughout the story.
Hazel’s character carries a lot of the weight here. Her journey through betrayal, self-reflection, and trying to figure out who she is outside of her relationship was compelling and, at times, very relatable. I appreciated that the story didn’t shy away from the messiness of those emotions.
However, I did find myself wanting a bit more depth overall, especially in the emotional connection and pacing. Some moments that felt like they should have had more impact didn’t quite land for me, which made it harder to stay fully invested.
This is a solid read, especially for those who enjoy character-driven romance with a focus on personal growth, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Hazel’s character carries a lot of the weight here. Her journey through betrayal, self-reflection, and trying to figure out who she is outside of her relationship was compelling and, at times, very relatable. I appreciated that the story didn’t shy away from the messiness of those emotions.
However, I did find myself wanting a bit more depth overall, especially in the emotional connection and pacing. Some moments that felt like they should have had more impact didn’t quite land for me, which made it harder to stay fully invested.
This is a solid read, especially for those who enjoy character-driven romance with a focus on personal growth, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy
Read Research Purposes: Dark Sky County Book 1 ARC
and tore through the book.
It is your classic romance, which isn’t typically my preferred genre, I’m a fantasy/romantansy monster, but I got pulled right into the Dark Sky County. Seeing the majesty of our own world through the lens of people who love being outdoors and sharing that with someone dear to them really brings their story to life.
The spoken dialogue isn’t where this story lives, so banter lovers take note, but don’t shy away, still give this book a chance, because the inner monologue of the MCs is where we really find compassion for them.
The MCs both explore finding their best selves and navigating each other’s love languages with some hiccups along the way.
TW stalking, manipulation, coercive control, malignant narcissism (NOT from either MC)
and tore through the book.
It is your classic romance, which isn’t typically my preferred genre, I’m a fantasy/romantansy monster, but I got pulled right into the Dark Sky County. Seeing the majesty of our own world through the lens of people who love being outdoors and sharing that with someone dear to them really brings their story to life.
The spoken dialogue isn’t where this story lives, so banter lovers take note, but don’t shy away, still give this book a chance, because the inner monologue of the MCs is where we really find compassion for them.
The MCs both explore finding their best selves and navigating each other’s love languages with some hiccups along the way.
TW stalking, manipulation, coercive control, malignant narcissism (NOT from either MC)
Review of advance copy
I really enjoyed this one! 🧪
The second chance romance pulled me in right away, and I liked how Hazel and Noah’s history slowly unfolded instead of everything being explained all at once. It made everything feel more natural and kept me interested the whole time.
Their relationship felt real, and you could tell there was a loooooot of history between them (like they go way back). The tension and emotions were done really well, and I liked that it didn’t feel rushed.
I also liked the overall vibe of the story. It had that quiet, emotional feel to it that made it easy to get lost in, and I found myself wanting to keep reading to see how everything played out.
The second chance romance pulled me in right away, and I liked how Hazel and Noah’s history slowly unfolded instead of everything being explained all at once. It made everything feel more natural and kept me interested the whole time.
Their relationship felt real, and you could tell there was a loooooot of history between them (like they go way back). The tension and emotions were done really well, and I liked that it didn’t feel rushed.
I also liked the overall vibe of the story. It had that quiet, emotional feel to it that made it easy to get lost in, and I found myself wanting to keep reading to see how everything played out.
April 30, 2026
*ARC REVIEW*
First of all, the cover is dreamy. Secondly, this romance will put you through the wringer. This is not a linear timeline. These people have ups and downs and round-a-bouts to get to the finish line(HEA). I like that it emphasized the importance to spending time and doing activities separate from your partner.
I love a good “working on myself” story line. I love when characters committing to therapy on page. So important!!
The real MVP of the book though is Butters. That queen can do no wrong.
Overall, we love a cowboy, we love an FMC who is finding AND saving herself, and we love sheep who break ribs.
First of all, the cover is dreamy. Secondly, this romance will put you through the wringer. This is not a linear timeline. These people have ups and downs and round-a-bouts to get to the finish line(HEA). I like that it emphasized the importance to spending time and doing activities separate from your partner.
I love a good “working on myself” story line. I love when characters committing to therapy on page. So important!!
The real MVP of the book though is Butters. That queen can do no wrong.
Overall, we love a cowboy, we love an FMC who is finding AND saving herself, and we love sheep who break ribs.
May 6, 2026
I got the opportunity to read and review this book as an ARC. I enjoyed this book and their relationship. This is a second chance romance between a cowboy/rancher and a STEM woman. The FMC is dealing with a toxic and horrible relationship and as she’s dealing with finding who she is, she starts connecting with the MMC (who is not her partner). The banter wasn’t really there, but overall the relationship was sweet and some parts were just a bit slow (in my opinion). However I would still recommend this book for people who enjoy reading about women getting to find themselves and free themselves from toxic relationships/environments. Plus who doesn’t love a good cowboy romance?
May 17, 2026
This book was an absolute page-turner from beginning to end. The author did an incredible job of creating a story that was not only detailed and descriptive, but also deeply engaging. Every chapter left me wanting to know what would happen next, making it almost impossible to put the book down.
The writing style was smooth, well thought out, and easy to follow while still being rich with detail. The characters felt real and relatable, and the way the author developed both the plot and emotions throughout the story kept me fully invested. The suspense, twists, and carefully written scenes made the book exciting and memorable.
What stood out most was the author’s ability to paint vivid pictures with words. Each scene felt alive, and the storytelling pulled me right into the world they created. It’s clear a lot of thought, creativity, and effort went into writing this book.
Overall, this was a wonderfully written story that keeps readers hooked from one page to the next. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating read that keeps you excited to see what happens next. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
The writing style was smooth, well thought out, and easy to follow while still being rich with detail. The characters felt real and relatable, and the way the author developed both the plot and emotions throughout the story kept me fully invested. The suspense, twists, and carefully written scenes made the book exciting and memorable.
What stood out most was the author’s ability to paint vivid pictures with words. Each scene felt alive, and the storytelling pulled me right into the world they created. It’s clear a lot of thought, creativity, and effort went into writing this book.
Overall, this was a wonderfully written story that keeps readers hooked from one page to the next. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating read that keeps you excited to see what happens next. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just finished reading research purposes and I love it! The plot (messy), all the different things that fall together to make an amazing story.
I’ll be honest and admit I was a bit worried at the beginning. It felt like there were a lot of moving parts and I wasn’t sure how it was all going to come together… but it absolutely did.
Hazel (FMC) is such a complex character. She’s in her 30s and still figuring things out… especially emotionally and inner growth which felt really relatable. I have a friend that always says inner child work but in thins case inner adult work. She makes some good decisions, some bad ones… hindsight and all that but
you can really feel her growth throughout the story. The emotional weight of change, taking risks and eventually stepping into the unknown was written in a way that felt very real. Relatable.
And her friend group “The Wolfpack” was everything. That kind of support with the kinda friends who stick it out through the hard parts? That’s family.
Noah (MMC) was equally compelling in a different way. Strong on the outside, but struggling quietly. Watching him push through, spiral and eventually start to heal was incredibly well done.
It really highlights something a lot of us I’m sure can relate to when it comes to mental health. We (I) tend to think we’re coping when we’re actually not and how hard it can be to ask for help.
TROPES:
⭐️ STEM / jujitsu BA FMC coming into her own
⭐️ Sasquatch / Veteran / MMA coach / rancher / strong, silent, wounded MMC
⭐️ Second chance
🐑 Butters (iykyk)
⭐️ Amazing side characters
⭐️ Crappy ex
This book honestly rocked me but in the best way.
If you like emotional, character-driven stories with growth, healing and strong relationships (romantic and friendships) then this is definitely worth the read
4.25 ⭐️🐑
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
I’ll be honest and admit I was a bit worried at the beginning. It felt like there were a lot of moving parts and I wasn’t sure how it was all going to come together… but it absolutely did.
Hazel (FMC) is such a complex character. She’s in her 30s and still figuring things out… especially emotionally and inner growth which felt really relatable. I have a friend that always says inner child work but in thins case inner adult work. She makes some good decisions, some bad ones… hindsight and all that but
you can really feel her growth throughout the story. The emotional weight of change, taking risks and eventually stepping into the unknown was written in a way that felt very real. Relatable.
And her friend group “The Wolfpack” was everything. That kind of support with the kinda friends who stick it out through the hard parts? That’s family.
Noah (MMC) was equally compelling in a different way. Strong on the outside, but struggling quietly. Watching him push through, spiral and eventually start to heal was incredibly well done.
It really highlights something a lot of us I’m sure can relate to when it comes to mental health. We (I) tend to think we’re coping when we’re actually not and how hard it can be to ask for help.
TROPES:
⭐️ STEM / jujitsu BA FMC coming into her own
⭐️ Sasquatch / Veteran / MMA coach / rancher / strong, silent, wounded MMC
⭐️ Second chance
🐑 Butters (iykyk)
⭐️ Amazing side characters
⭐️ Crappy ex
This book honestly rocked me but in the best way.
If you like emotional, character-driven stories with growth, healing and strong relationships (romantic and friendships) then this is definitely worth the read
4.25 ⭐️🐑
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Review of advance copy received from Author
**ARC Review**
This story is a gentle, emotional exploration of love, friendship, and the quiet work of learning yourself again. I loved how the book handled trust, not in a dramatic way, but in the small, human moments where privacy is crossed and hearts have to decide whether to close or stay open. The second‑chance arc felt tender and believable, and the characters’ growth was handled with so much care. A warm, reflective read for anyone who’s ever had to rebuild something fragile.
This story is a gentle, emotional exploration of love, friendship, and the quiet work of learning yourself again. I loved how the book handled trust, not in a dramatic way, but in the small, human moments where privacy is crossed and hearts have to decide whether to close or stay open. The second‑chance arc felt tender and believable, and the characters’ growth was handled with so much care. A warm, reflective read for anyone who’s ever had to rebuild something fragile.
May 6, 2026
ARC Review!
This was a solid read with a great FMC found in Hazel. I enjoyed her introspection and her journey she took as a character, reading about her becoming more sure of herself was well done.
I will say I thought I found the book to not be as engaging at times, and the character motives to be surface level, but this is very nit picky of me.
Overall it is a quick read and it is a good read.
This was a solid read with a great FMC found in Hazel. I enjoyed her introspection and her journey she took as a character, reading about her becoming more sure of herself was well done.
I will say I thought I found the book to not be as engaging at times, and the character motives to be surface level, but this is very nit picky of me.
Overall it is a quick read and it is a good read.
May 7, 2026
You are in for a treat!
What a magical and humorous adventure to mountain country living! The details will capture and transport you through your senses. You'll experience every range of emotion in Research Purposes with just the right spice. The love, humor, and strength of the Wolfpack shows an undeniable bond in their friendship. Hazel is absolutely amazing and her resilience is inspiring. And what woman wouldn't want a man like Noah?!!!
What a magical and humorous adventure to mountain country living! The details will capture and transport you through your senses. You'll experience every range of emotion in Research Purposes with just the right spice. The love, humor, and strength of the Wolfpack shows an undeniable bond in their friendship. Hazel is absolutely amazing and her resilience is inspiring. And what woman wouldn't want a man like Noah?!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an interesting read and I’m not sure how I felt about it. On the one hand, I enjoyed the connection between the MCs, and all the side characters but I disliked that it skirted very close to cheating even if Derek was a dumpster fire of a human and deserved what he got.
I enjoyed the bulk of the story thought so I’ll probably stick around for book 2!
I enjoyed the bulk of the story thought so I’ll probably stick around for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a fun read. I took me a little bit to get into and find a groove because it’s a new author and I don’t know their writing style. But this has everything. Slow burn, second chances, a jerk-off husband, cowboy rancher who makes lattes, outdoor PDA, core friend groups and so much more. I’m a trash panda so I wish the smut was smuttier. I’ll be definitely on the lookout for book 2!
May 12, 2026
LECTURA ARC
Me gustó mucho la historia y los personajes , el como los dos se ayudaron a sanar sentimientos negativos que tenían.
Es un libro ligero y rápido de leer .
ARC READ
I really liked the story and the characters, and how the two of them helped each other heal from the negative feelings they had.
It's a light, fast-paced book to read.
Me gustó mucho la historia y los personajes , el como los dos se ayudaron a sanar sentimientos negativos que tenían.
Es un libro ligero y rápido de leer .
ARC READ
I really liked the story and the characters, and how the two of them helped each other heal from the negative feelings they had.
It's a light, fast-paced book to read.
May 15, 2026
3 ⭐️ Read
First I want to thank Flying Pig PR for an ARC of this book 📕. Even though it wasn’t my favorite book it was still ok.
Liked the romance between Hazel and Noah and that they got an second chance at being together in this book. I hated Derek and how he treated both Hazel and Noah throughout this book. Liked the friendship between Hazel and her friends Ellie and Charlotte and also how they were there for her. But I am glad that Hazel and Noah got an happy ending together.
First I want to thank Flying Pig PR for an ARC of this book 📕. Even though it wasn’t my favorite book it was still ok.
Liked the romance between Hazel and Noah and that they got an second chance at being together in this book. I hated Derek and how he treated both Hazel and Noah throughout this book. Liked the friendship between Hazel and her friends Ellie and Charlotte and also how they were there for her. But I am glad that Hazel and Noah got an happy ending together.
May 1, 2026
This was an amazing, the character development throughout was well done. Loved the incorporation of jiu jitsu.
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