A Work in Development

Work in Progress #2

by K.A. Ross

For a woman who has edited hundreds of romance novels, Nellie’s own happy ending feels out of reach. After the death of her first husband, Daniel has offered her a second chance at happiness and love. But just as Nellie begins to hope for a future with him, her in-laws arrive to celebrate her late husband’s memory. Bringing more confusion than comfort, the well-intentioned relatives test Nellie's determination to be brave. Problems escalate when an unexpected threat emerges to tear open deep wounds from Daniel’s past and jeopardize everything Nellie has built with him. Nellie never thought she’d find love again. Now that she has, she’ll do anything to protect it. With only a week to keep everything from spinning out of control, keeping her romance from becoming a rom-com cliché is the least of Nellie’s problems. Nellie must face the fears buried inside herself to save her and Daniel’s story—or risk the next plot twist breaking it apart.

259 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2026

Reviews

[Angelica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this second installment in the Work in Progress series. I previously read the novella and was excited to read this story. The story centers around Nellie and Daniel, who have both been dealing with loss (Nellie lost her husband and Daniel his sister). The novella introduced their newly found friendship and they were dating for some time in book #2. I have not read book #1 and, in many ways, I regret not reading that first as there seems to have been a lot of character development in the first book in the series that I missed out on. I definitely recommend reading Work in Progress first (it's definitely on my list and will hopefully help but everything in more perspective).

I loved their relationship, trying to help each other get through their grief -- Nellie, at times, forgets about her own grief in an effort to help others (e.g., Daniel), but this comes to a head at the end of the story, where Nellie needs to face her grief and feelings. I thought that was so good - such realistic writing because we as humans often would rather ignore than face grief.

I also loved the found family - it was a bit quirky to me at first that Nellie lives with her ex-husband's mother and that family is so prevalent in her current life, even with a new boyfriend. There are no jealous feelings of Nellie having a boyfriend and trying to move on with her life, which was so great to see. Similarly, Daniel has his brother-in-law (his sister's widowed husband) and his girlfriend. Both families come together and it's just a beautiful melting pot of personalities that all respect and love each other. I loved this representation of family.

I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and am leaving a voluntary review.

[Hannah Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a sweet, feel-good sort of read about grief, emotion, and what love really looks like--beyond the big romantic gestures and into the small, mundane, day-to-day things. The relationship between Nellie and Daniel was far from perfect but so realistic, and it portrayed how things can go wrong when we bottle our feelings. The plot happens over an INSANELY short timeline (I think it's two weeks or less?) but honestly, it worked--I think because it didn't center around the development of the romance, but rather on the relationship between Nellie and Daniel that already existed and how it weathered time and struggle.

Considering our FMC worked for a literary agency, it would have been SO fun if Ross had dived further into that... but I did enjoy the references included (all the cliches and plot notes were so cute for this writer brain!).

The two most romantic words were NOT what I was expecting, but so sweet. This novel emphasizes how true love is shown in the little things--small observations and acts of love that just show the other person that they are seen and known. Despite all the pain and division we see between Nellie and Daniel... I want their kind of love. Love that sticks around and tries again. Love that pays attention. Love that offers grace.

My one gripe is that the nature of the story offered SO many places where a faith message would have fit in so perfectly, but the author instead demonstrated the importance of other people in our lives. Other people are great, but we really can't rely on them for our sense of purpose and identity. I would have loved to see a message about leaning on God, who truly will never fail. Also, the quote on Luis's tombstone, which is often reflected on, says, "I will not leave you comfortless." It's literally from John 14... Jesus says it. It bothered me that this was interpreted as "lean on the people in your life" instead of "lean on Jesus."

All that said, I really enjoyed this read. If you love contemporary romance with lessons on grief, finding love again, and navigating family relationships, you'll love A Work in Development!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are my honest opinion.

[Shayla Riley · Rating 4 out of 5]

a work in DEVELOPMENT
(Work in Progress Book 2
by: @authorkayross

••I give 4 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

~For a woman who has edited hundreds of romance novels, Nellie’s own happy ending feels out of reach…

“Grief isn’t an emotion, it is a magnifying glass.”

-a work in DEVELOPMENT, is book 2 in the moving Work in Progress Series by @authorkayross I would first greatly recommend reading this series in order to fully grasp the whole dear picture. But also, as this book immediately picks up from where book one ended from the MMC’s point of view. This story is from the FMC’s point of view and it took me on a journey with unexpected twists and turns of feelings while continuing on with more healing, working through grief for both Nellie and Daniel, and love amid the layers. At times it felt like things were spinning in a different direction but, slowly and surely though, it built up and emphasizes the importance of grief and that it doesn’t always appear or look the same for all, that having others notice, be there matters with facing all the feels. The waves of lows and lows were handled with grace and care while also showing the need to work through them. The strength of character comes with facing those truths. Such growth, reflection, peace, grace, and love that comes, encircles, and lingers in and between was beautiful, relatable, insightful, and impactful. This wasn’t a quick read and the writing felt more real. I loved seeing the difference in choosing to face, forgive, stand strong, and love! Healing of the heart in any form never follows a certain plan and having a support system makes all the difference threading the heart with love! This story tenderly shows that, love doesn’t have to be perfect to matter! It can spread in all the ways that count. What a moving story!📚❤️🙌🏻

•Content: Grief, death of loved ones (off page; mentioned on page) Feelings of loss, anxiety, mourning, grief, anger, fear, resentment, inadequacy, illness from food poisoning, some strained relationships, some drinking (in one scene-some beer by side character), no language, no danger, kisses only.

#aworkindevelopment
#workinprogressbooktwo
#authorkayross
#allaboutthebestreads

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read A Work in Progress when it was released and it took me a while to recognize that this is an immediate continuation of the saga, as the first book is from his POV and this one is from hers. I would definitely read the first book before diving into this one, as to grasp the whole picture.

KA Ross does a beautiful job of portraying love and grief–not speeding through it, but allowing it to present itself in natural and restorative ways. Nellie and Daniel are dealing with A LOT throughout this book, and I enjoyed the themes of healing, working through grief, and found family. That found family is everything! While these two are in love, romance isn’t the focus of this story, and there are a lot of emotions to encompass and confront.

It was a joy to move through these issues with Nellie and Daniel and feeling all the feels.

⚠️past death/grief; religious themes; very mild romance

*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*

[Emily Cronk · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this book did have some unique characters that experienced great character growth by the end of story, along with great themes of found family and overcoming grief, I really struggled to connect with the main characters while I was reading this story.

Many thanks to the author for the early copy; all thoughts are my own.

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

A heartfelt journey through grief & love. A Work in Development took me through the highs & lows of finding romance again after losing loved ones. After reading A Work in Progress, I was excited to dive into this touching sequel. While the first book gave us Daniel’s POV, this one is told exclusively from Nellie’s. Through their shared grief, they’ve found love again, but as they both try to honor their loved ones, unexpected feelings resurface, threatening to upend their future.

Nellie’s under a lot of pressure, not only from her work, but with the arrival of family for a celebration honoring the memory of her late husband, Luis. At the same time, she’s trying to help Daniel process the grief & guilt surrounding his sister’s death as the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new lobby of the cancer center dedicated in her honor fast approaches. As grief, anger, & stress pile up, cracks begin to show in Nellie’s normally sunshiny personality as she tries to carry everything alone.

I was immediately struck by how raw & honest the emotions felt in this story. Though Nellie’s found an incredible second chance at love, she still hasn’t fully faced her own grief, & it’s apparent from the anger simmering just below the surface that she’s having difficultly handling it all on her own. She’s so focused on Daniel that she begins projecting her own emotions onto him. I loved how friends, family, & even her boss recognize she’s spiraling & step in to help. Her journey felt incredibly authentic, & I found myself deeply sympathizing with her.

Despite the heavier themes & emotions, I enjoyed the lighthearted moments sprinkled throughout. Luis’ visiting grandmother gave me endless laughs with her prim disapproval of any affection until Nellie’s got a ring on her finger, as well as Sarah’s terrible cheese sticks. I also loved the running joke of Daniel trying to figure out the two most romantic words in the English Language.

Filled with an ultimately hopeful message of life after loss, this story is one that’ll stay with me. Recommend to contemporary romance fans. I received an advanced copy, but also purchased the ebook. All opinions are my own & provided voluntarily.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Work in Progress series. These books shouldn't be read as standalones as the story continues and you'll want to know the background of Nellie and Daniel's relationship. A Work in Progress is told from Daniel's POV and A Work in Development is told by Nellie's.

This book continues the journey of healing and working through grief for both Nellie and Daniel. Nellie says a couple of times in the book that "Grief isn't an emotion, it is a magnifying glass."

Grief, unfortunately, is something we'll all face during out lives. However, each person experiences it differently, but one of the greatest reminders from this story, is that we do not need to go through it alone.

I do love Nellie and Daniel together. I love how they both support each other - even if they have to remind each other that they are stronger than the other thinks they are. I also love the family that Nellie has built. Family goes way beyond those we are related to by blood.

I do have to admit that I was a little put out with how Nellie handled the first meeting with Chelsey. However, as the story continued, my heart went out to Nellie, and I better understood her reactions.

At the end, you'll want to get the bonus scene. This scene does make me wonder if we are going to get another book in this series and if it will focus on Sarah.

I received an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Quotes:
"Grief is a black hole; you can't escape tis grip on your own."

"Anger isn't the only emotion that can spread. So can love."

"This was all we needed. Each other and a path forward."

"It's my turn to be your strength. To be your comfort."

"You will never lose me."

"I find, sitting next to you, that nothing else matters so much."

"However, your family is created, or however it is made, cherish the good and hold it close."

"...I noticed."

"...stories don't have to be perfect to be loved. Well, love doesn't have to be prefect either."

"You are everything that is my favorite."

[Jocelynne Diaz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a heartfelt continuation of Nellie and Daniel's story. While it's a romance at its core, it's really about healing, learning to move forward without leaving the past behind, and discovering that love can grow even after unimaginable loss.

Nellie and Daniel both carry the weight of grief in different ways, and I appreciated that the story didn't pretend those feelings simply disappear once they found each other. Instead, it explores what it means to build a future while honoring the people they've loved and lost. Their relationship felt genuine because they continued choosing each other, even when fear, guilt, and painful memories threatened to pull them apart.

One of my favorite parts of the book was the cast of supporting characters. Edward was an absolute delight, bringing so much warmth and humor to the story, while Anita and Nellie's family added another layer of love and support. Even the secondary characters had their own struggles and personalities, making the world feel full and authentic.

I also enjoyed Nellie's habit of narrating out loud. It took me a little while to get used to, but it quickly became one of her most endearing traits and led to several genuinely funny moments that balanced the heavier emotional themes.

Although the story tackles grief, family expectations, and emotional trauma, it never feels overwhelmingly heavy. Instead, it's filled with hope, healing, laughter, and reminders that second chances are possible. The ending was satisfying while still leaving me excited to spend more time with these characters.

If you enjoy character-driven romances with emotional depth, supportive families, touches of humor, and thoughtful explorations of grief and moving forward, this is a wonderful read. Whether you're continuing the series or discovering these characters for the first time, there's so much heart here to enjoy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alexis (IG: lexislimitlesslibrary) Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh, my heart went through the wringer with this story! Because this book picks up right after the events of book one, I highly recommend reading them in order to fully appreciate the deep chemistry and history between the main characters.

I absolutely adored our FMC, Nellie. As a book editor, she constantly compares her own life to various romance novel tropes, which made me smile and giggle so many times! It was such a clever, charming touch to her character.

Both Daniel and Nellie are navigating heavy grief and their own personal battles. What I loved most about their dynamic is that they don’t try to "fix" each other; instead, they act as a safe shoulder to lean on, a constant source of support, and a voice of tough love when needed.

A significant source of emotional tension comes from Nellie’s relationship with her late husband's family. While she is still mourning, she is also ready to take a brave step forward toward a second chance at love. Watching her navigate this delicate, complex situation was incredibly moving and allowed me to truly feel every bit of her conflict.

Meanwhile, Daniel faces his own inner turmoil as ghosts from his past resurface, forcing him to confront them before he can truly move on. The way Nellie supports him through this is so tender and sweet. Ultimately, this story will have you fiercely rooting for Daniel and Nellie as they learn to make their relationship—and each other—a true priority.

I received an advanced copy from the publisher and author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content: Closed door, no explicit language, heavy themes of grief and the loss of a spouse.
Available formats: Paperback, eBook

[Hallie (Hallie Reads) · Rating 2 out of 5]

i wanted to love this...

but unfortunately, it didn't work for me—for a number of reasons.

firstly, it's the second book for nellie and daniel. their story starts in previous books and continues in a work in development. obviously, this is not a fault of the book, but i didn't fully understand the nature of the series before i started reading. (i picked up enough context while i read to understand enough, but it would have been helpful to read the books in order.)

secondly, and more significantly, i struggled to see the purpose of continuing their story. i get that life is still complicated once you fall in love, and grief is always going to provide unique hurdles... but nothing happens. the book spans a week, and everything that's said to be significant feels anticlimactic. there's a bit of character growth at the end, sure, but i don't understand why there needed to be a whole book for that moment.

thirdly, and most annoyingly, so much of this book relies on a lack of communication. maybe this made sense for their character development from the first book, but it just felt like they should have already overcome some hurdles around their grief and romance. nellie and daniel are together for a week and barely talk at all until the end. i just didn't get it.

if you've already started this series and want to spend more time with these characters, a work in development is totally worth reading. however, i can't recommend it.

(i received a complimentary copy from the author and/or publisher. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.)

[George Dickinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Work in Development is a beautiful reminder that none of us are finished yet. The chapter that touched me the most emphasized that the Lord is patiently shaping us through every success, setback, and season of life. It reminded me that spiritual growth is a lifelong process, not something that happens overnight.

What I appreciated most was the encouragement to trust Heavenly Father's timing instead of becoming discouraged by our weaknesses or imperfections. The author shows that our challenges are not signs of failure but opportunities for the Savior to refine us into who He knows we can become. That message brought me both comfort and hope.

The writing is warm, personal, and firmly rooted in the scriptures. Rather than making readers feel inadequate, it points them to Jesus Christ, whose grace makes continual growth possible. I especially loved the reminder that the Lord sees our potential even when we struggle to see it ourselves.

This book encourages patience, faith, and perseverance while reminding us that every faithful step matters. Whether you are facing trials, working to strengthen your testimony, or simply trying to become a better disciple of Christ, A Work in Development offers timely encouragement and lasting spiritual insight. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking greater hope and confidence in the Savior's ability to help us become all He intends us to be.

I received an Advance Review Copy (ARC) of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own and were not influenced by the author or publisher.

[Mara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before picking up A Work in Development, you really need to read A Work in Progress first. That's where Nellie and Daniel's story begins, and you'll have a much better understanding of their relationship and everything they've already been through together.

I can't imagine trying to fall in love while still learning how to live with the grief of losing someone you loved, but that's exactly where Nellie and Daniel find themselves. One of the things I appreciated most about this book is that it doesn't rush the healing process. Both characters are grieving, but in different ways and at different paces. Their journeys feel honest, reminding us that grief doesn't follow a timeline and that moving forward doesn't mean leaving the past behind.

Nellie is dealing with issues at work and the planning of her late husband's remembrance ceremony, while Daniel is facing challenges dealing with his sister's death. This adds another layer of emotional depth to the story. Both of them were still learning to trust others and not assume they knew what was best for the other. I really loved the found family dynamic in this story.

The author does a wonderful job balancing the emotions of grief with moments of warmth and hope. While this story deals with heavy topics, it never loses sight of the healing power of love, grace, and choosing to move forward one step at a time.

If you enjoy emotionally rich contemporary romances featuring second chances with realistic characters, this one is well worth adding to your reading list. I received an advanced copy from the author but also bought an ebook for my personal library. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Contemporary Romance novels are a great genre. A Work in Development by K.A. Ross is Book 2 in the Work in Progress series. I have not read the first book in the series, but I didn't have any trouble following along in this book.

The storyline started a bit slow, although by the second chapter I was very much into the book. The 2 main characters in this story are Nellie and Daniel. Nellie is a widow and she is still grieving. She wasn't sure what life would bring her in the future, then she meets Daniel. Nellie is at a point in life where she is beginning to see and feel happiness, then her In-Laws come for a visit. The In-Laws are here for a memorial for Luis, Nellie's late husband. Daniel is wanting to support Nellie through the Memorial. Nellie really feels her relationship with Daniel is progressing, then suddenly parts of Daniel's past are revealed. I really LOVE how the storyline has some twists and turns in the plot when the secrets are revealed. I admire the strength of Nellie and Daniel throughout the book and how they don't allow happenings to deter them from having a future together. I was really intrigued by the characters and how the communication became stronger through the trauma. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Contemporary Romance. GREAT BOOK!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a story of two people who know grief well. Nellie is a widow and Daniel lost his sister. They connected and have fallen in love; Nellie is hoping that Daniel and she can marry and start a family sooner rather than later.

I liked how they balanced each other out. Both suffer with trigger points that are related to the death of their loved ones. They were very good for each other and helped one another in coping. I was also hoping these two could move on with their lives. However, they do have a few more trials to get through.

Nellie is an editor for romance novels. She has a really funny way of narrating her life, out loud. That was a bit of quirkiness for her character, and I found that trait charming and funny. This is the second book in series about these two. I like that the author is continuing their relationship growth alongside their individual growth. Grief unfortunately is a part of life, and this story handled some difficult subjects well without being too heavy.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nellie and Daniel are both still working through their grief after the loss of loved ones. Now that they’ve found each other they have to work hard to be a team and help one another through their own struggles. Nellie is doing her best to protect Daniel and the ones she loves, but at what cost? Can Daniel show Nellie that he is much stronger than he was when they first met?

What I loved:
✏️ Nellie’s ability to narrate out loud in all sorts of situations
✏️Nellie’s boss Anita
✏️All of Nellie’s family
✏️ Edward- he’s so quirky and kind hearted
✏️How much love and care the characters have for one another
✏️The strength of each character despite the loss they experienced

I love that we got to see more of Nellie and Daniel’s story. I feel like I always want more even after an epilogue. A whole second book was exactly what I needed! Nellie and Daniel have come such a long way since the first book. This one made me laugh with Edward and Daniel’s antics and Nellie’s narrations. Some heavy topics are dealt with without the book feeling too heavy and there is so much hope and resolve worked in. I can’t wait to read more about this family. Highly recommend!

[Connor Olsen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again, K. A. Ross takes us on a heartwarming emotional journey of healing, grief, love, and loss. This time, we get to hear from Nellie, and see through her eyes as she and her boyfriend Daniel try to support one another through a series of potentially trauma-enducing events that threaten to tear apart their blossoming love.

What I loved: K. A. Ross could write a book (well, another one!) about the use of subtle foreshadowing to help us glimpse into the minds of her characters to discover things they won't even admit to themselves. Paired with her beautiful prose and thoughtfully crafted characters, this becomes a cozy read that culminates in a very adorable moment near the end. While miscommunication drove much of the tension, I feel it was handled quite well.

What wasn't for me: A few parts of the book were just a tad dramatic for my taste. However, this didn't detract from the focal growth of the book, and the emotional climax.

[M. K. Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars: I will say to start that I have not read the first book in the series or the short story prequel (yet), but I was still fully able to enjoy this one. Nellie's narration habit took me a little bit to get used to, although I did like how the others reacted to it. I felt like all the characters had their own concerns and felt real as opposed to only being about the main character. The plot sometimes did not have a clear direction from my perspective (again, this is probably because I am a first-timer to this world), but I did like where the story ended up. Nellie, Daniel, Edward, and even other characters are all clearly dealing with grief in their own ways. I did guess what was in the necklace but still loved seeing it unfold.

Thank you to the author for the ARC; all opinions are my own.

[MK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advanced copy I received from the author.

I’ve enjoyed this unique series that explores love after grief. Or perhaps love in grief. It is true that we can feel conflicting feelings, but we often feel conflicted about it. Guilt over happiness after grief. Do we ever truly get over grief? I’ve enjoyed this exploration through the characters in this series. They are very relatable characters with feelings and thoughts I find to be genuine to the human experience. I enjoyed the ups and downs of this book and am glad I gave this series a chance. I would not say that this book was a stand alone novel. I had to go back and refresh my memory about the characters and who they are related to etc. Definitely pick up book 1 first, if you’re interested in this series! Thank you to the author for a copy of this books!

[Alyssa Dominguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read an ARC copy of this book. I enjoyed it a lot! I would definitely recommend reading the first in this series as this book is a continuation of the main characters story. This book goes far beyond a typical “hallmark” romance book with its deep themes surrounding grief and how to communicate through it in relationships. Our main characters both lost someone close to them in their lives and this story mainly deals with our FMC (Nellie) navigating her grief in her life. I loved the emotional dialogue and the sweet romance line incorporated. In this book you’ll find:

-a sweet continuation of a romance set up in the first book
-an HEA
-Emotional themes that deal with grief, anxiety, and other mental health
-Clever rom-com lingo/cliches

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wondeful book to continue the srory if these characters. Continue to bear the grief of the lost of their lost ones, Daniel and Nellie their families and the world around them. In these book we see Nellie planing the remember of Luis, being part of it and how it was all going to plan out for her and Daniel. Daniel wanted to be present the place where Luis was buried brought memories for him. In this one we get to see them both navigate their relationship, be part of the present, be present for the other going through the grief with them and find the happy ending they both deserve. I love them so much, well written, real, relatable and beautiful.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Work in Development is the second book in the Work in Progress series written by K.A. Ross. I read this as a standalone, as I did not realize it was book 2 in the series. It did not take away from this story, though, looking at book 1, it has more of the backstory behind Nellie and Daniel.

There were a lot of different moving parts to this story, and sometimes I got a little lost in keeping things straight. Nellie and Daniel are both navigating their grief. Nellie’s husband, Luis, has died, and Daniel is grieving the death of his sister, Elise, to cancer. It was during the first book that they met. Nellie and Daniel are now dating and working through things. Now, memorial events are happening for Luis and Elise, which are bringing another wave of grief. Nellie lives with her mother-in-law, and they help each other when the grief is too much. Working through it all and being close to her sister and brothers-in-law. Nellie is an editor for romance novels. It was fun to see that dynamic. This story brought out some different emotions and had some things going on that kept me on my toes. All in all, it was a cute story dealing with grief and finding love again.     

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. 

[Lizzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book! Nellie and Daniel had a rocky and crazy week, but they end up growing as characters along the way. It did get quite dramatic at times, but everyone has their hard moments. Nellie and Daniel have such supportive and loving family that they chose or were related to through blood. Through the story, grief is a huge emotion that they face, but they love and help each other through. I recommend this book after reading A Work in Progress, so you know the whole story of Nellie and Daniel! This book is in Nellie’s point of view instead of Daniel’s. I’m excited for the next one, which I think is coming!


I received an ARC copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nellie and Daniel both are working through the grieving process of losing someone close to them. The path to love a lasting commitment isn’t always easy, but I am glad that Nellie and Daniel had each other to help ease their pain, move forward, and find their happy ever after.

“You’re the one who taught me that stories don’t have to be perfect to be loved. Well, love doesn’t have to be perfect either.”

I received a copy of the book from the author. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I jumped into this tour late and didn’t have the chance to read the previous book before diving into A work in Development. While it would have been more enjoyable to read them in order and get the full story, I still enjoyed this story and a look at grief. Nellie and Daniel have both lost someone close to them, which put them in each other’s path. I love how this story explores a bit of the grieving process and how it’s not linear. It’s a beautiful story of hope.

I received this book from JustRead. This is my honest review.

[clean.reads.corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

"You are everything that is my favorite."

Honest and moving journey of grief, healing, and finding love again.

"Grief isn't an emotion. It's a magnifying glass."

This author has a unique voice and crafts characters that are flawed, and human, and real. There is a beautiful balance between grief and hope, along with the underlying truth that grief, as well as healing, happen in their own time.

This is the second book in the Work in Progress series and they absolutely should be read in order.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is part 2 of A Work in Progress and reading them in order is important to know the characters and be familiar with all that has happened before. The theme of found family runs deep in this story, as do grief and healing. Humor and moments of romance are woven throughout the tale as well. There are many truly delightful characters in this book.

I received an e-ARC of this book from the publisher

[Dev G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daniel and Nellie’s story continues in A Work in Development. I recommend reading A Work in Progress first to get the full understanding.

They’re both trying to move forward while still wading through the choppy and uncertain waters of grief.

This story focuses on Nellie. She is trying to hold everything together. Taking care of Daniel and appeasing her late husband’s family, never thinking about what she needs.

An emotional journey traversing through grief, love, hope, friendship, and healing. Learning that healing takes time and letting others come along side you to help comfort and carry you through. Honest and raw. I really appreciated Edward and the found family aspect for both Nellie and Daniel.

Thank you to K.A. Ross for the copy. All opinions are my own.

[Anna Serfass · Rating 3 out of 5]

***ARC Review***


A Work in Development by K.A. Ross is the second book in the series, Work in Progress. I did not read the first book and if I am being honest, there were times where I was completing lost in the story. This is also my first time reading a book by this author.

Nellie is the main character and you know she is dealing with a loss. But at times they mention someone named Daniel and I had no idea who they were. Both Daniel and Nellie are dealing with losses of someone close to them (husband and sister).

I did enjoy that this book had a happy ending in the end. I also liked how all their friends were very supportive when they were their dark days. Over all I would rate this book ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ out of 5 stars.

[Kat Crowder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an emotional ride! This book is so great! Strong themes of grief and sorrow throughout the whole book. There are also strong themes of unconditional love, support, and found family. I cried, laughed and loved through the entire book. Definitely recommend.

[Kaitlyn Gaddis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet cute read. It was super enjoyable. The story itself was really good and the characters were all very interesting and definitely kept my attention.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.