Hero Next Door: A Single Dad Firefighter Next Door Small Town Family Romance

Gibson Hollow #3

by Kait Nolan, Amy McFadden (Narrator), Michael Gallagher (Narrator)

Losing everything was supposed to be the end. It might be the beginning.

I've built my life around moving on.

New places. New projects. New causes. Make an impact, then keep going. It worked—right up until a scandal I never saw coming burned my reputation to the ground… and a house fire took everything else.

Now I'm stuck in a small mountain town with nothing but borrowed clothes, a growing list of problems, and a firefighter next door who refuses to let me fall apart quietly.

Colter Gibson is steady, capable, and entirely too easy to lean on. A single dad with deep roots, a protective streak a mile wide, and a way of looking at me like I'm something other than a hot mess.

Letting him help was supposed to be temporary.

So was staying in Gibson Hollow.

So was whatever this thing is igniting between us.

But the longer I'm here, the harder it is to pretend he doesn't feel like home.

And when the life I lost comes calling, I have to decide…

Do I go back to who I was—Or risk everything for the one place—and the one man—that makes me want to stay?

In a town that takes care of its own, sometimes you have to learn how to let yourself be one of them.

Genres: Audiobook, Romance, Humor, Contemporary, Fiction, Family, Firefighters

Audible Audio

Published June 26, 2026

About the author

Kait Nolan is a RITA® Award-winning Mississippi author who calls everyone sugar, honey, or darlin', and can wield a 'Bless your heart' like a Snuggie or a saber, depending on requirements. She believes in love, laughter, and that tacos are the world's most perfect food. When she's not writing, reading, working the evil day job, or wrangling family (both the two-legged and the four-), you can find her obsessively watching The Great British Bake Off.

Sign up for her newsletter! rebrand.ly/kaitsnewsletter

Reviews

[Di · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one is definitely for all the theater kids hitting midlife. 🤍🎭

It was such a cozy, swoony small-town romance filled with heart, healing, and finding your way back to yourself. The chemistry between the main characters felt natural, and I loved how the town itself became part of the story. The narrators, Amy McFadden and Michael Gallagher, did a wonderful job bringing the emotions to life.

If you're looking for a comforting romance with lovable characters and all the small-town charm, this is an easy recommendation.

Tropes:
🤍 Small-town romance
🚒 Single dad
❤️ Neighbor romance
🏡 Starting over
✨ Second chances (at life)
👨‍👦 Found family
🔥 Protective firefighter MMC
💕 Slow-burn romance
🌄 Mountain-town setting

Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.🖤 All opinions are my own.

[This Is What I Read (Nitzan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

My fourth book in this series and I'm falling in love even more with this family and this town.

In this book the entire comunity helps a stranger in need without asking any questions and she helps them back.

I cant wait fir the next book in the series ❤️

Thank you Netgalley for an advanced listening copy

[Mamawattto4 Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the audio ARC

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I absolutely love the Gibson Hollow series, and Hero Next Door was another wonderful addition. Kait Nolan has created such a charming small-town world that I never want to leave. Every time I come back to Gibson Hollow, it feels like catching up with old friends, and this book reminded me why I adore these characters so much.

Colter was everything you could want in a hero steady, dependable, protective, and an incredible single dad. I loved watching his relationship with the heroine grow naturally as she learned to lean on someone after losing everything. The themes of healing, found family, redemption, and finding a place to truly belong made this story so heartfelt.

The audiobook was fantastic. The dual narration brought the characters to life and added so much emotion to every scene. Both narrators captured the heart, humor, and tenderness of the story perfectly, making it such an enjoyable listen.

Kari Nolan continues to deliver the kind of sweet, emotional small-town romances I can’t get enough of. If you love single-dad heroes, forced proximity, found family, and cozy small-town settings filled with unforgettable characters, I can’t recommend the Gibson Hollow series enough. I already can’t wait for my next visit to this wonderful little town.

[autwenreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great read from Kait Nolan! This wasn’t my first book by the author, and once again I really enjoyed her storytelling. I loved being back in Gibson Hollow and spending time with its welcoming, supportive, and caring community.

Swayze and Colter were both easy to love, and I especially adored Colter’s family and the relationship with Lisa. They added so much heart to the story.

Overall, this was a sweet and comforting small-town romance that left me with a smile on my face.

Thank you Wildfire Marketing Solutions and Kait Nolan for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved Swayze and Colter. Both neighbors. Him a fireman and single dad, and her an influencer that just moved to this small type after losing everything. These two were complete opposites, but their banter was great. And their moments were awesome. I thought this was sweet, steamy, and a great time.

[Brina's Emotional Borrow · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐
Swayze is a southern belle with a talent for graphic design, social media, and a passion for championing causes she finds important. She’s gone from a world‑traveling influencer to a canceled pariah overnight. Hoping to hide out and regroup, she lands in Gibson Hollow, a small town in North Carolina and things only get worse. At her lowest, a hot, kind, and helpful firefighter saves her life and keeps swooping in to save the day.

Colter is a firefighter and single dad who’s put love on the back burner for too long. He has amazing chemistry with Swayze, and together they explore the possibility of something more.

I’m a sucker for uplifting small‑town stories, and I loved the quirky nature of this town with the Sass Pack Association and their guilt casseroles. The way they rallied and supported others was exactly what I enjoy. It was a perfect balance of nosy, helpful, and over‑the‑top characters.

The slow‑burn romance was a highlight. I loved the buildup and all the “almosts” that kept happening.

This book includes a couple of miscommunication tropes, which I normally don’t like. However, Kait Nolan created just the right amount of tension without dropping into drama. Multiple times we see Swayze and Colter wanting the same thing but assuming the other is on a different page. During the second miscommunication, I was wondering how Swayze missed the issue and that did frustrate me a little.

The ending was just about the sweetest thing ever. I loved the Dirty Dancing references throughout. Those always made me smile.

This was a dual‑narration audiobook. Amy McFadden did a great job with the many voices. I especially loved her Scottish accent, though her southern accent came and went at times. Michael Gallagher’s voice lent itself well to a southern drawl and to the female voices. He also voiced several characters and handled them well.

If you love a sweet, small‑town, slow‑burn romance, this is absolutely the book for you. It’s the kind of story that keeps a smile on your face in all the best ways.

Thank you NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op, and Kait Nolan for this ALC.

[poppyreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book: Hero Next Door
Author: Kait Nolan
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ 1.5/5

I was excited for this ARC of Hero Next Door.
The writing is crisp and easy to follow, and I liked how the characters came together. Watching Swayze grow from the scandal, to the house fire, and picking up all those pieces while taking the time to help in town just spoke so well on who she was. Colter tugs at your heart when you read his thoughts and see what he truly wants.

Colter and Swayze's path cross when the house she's renting catches fire and Colter responds to the call. The pull they feel towards each other is sweet and freshing. There's a lot of cute moments between the characters.

Would recommend to those who need a sweet cozy small town romance with found family vibes.

🚒Firefighter Hero
🚒Single Dad
🚒Next Door Neighbors
🚒Small Town Romance
🚒Opposites Attract
🚒Forced Proximity
🚒Fresh Start / Starting Over
🚒Found Family

Thanks to Wildfire Marketing Solutions for the ARC.

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the ALC. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

I love this series! It makes me feel like I'm coming back home to Gibson Hollow (which is funny, since I actually live in a major European city) and reconnecting with people I care about. The Gibson family, the small-town residents, and the Sasspatch Society have won my heart from the very first book with their open-hearted nature and their quirky personalities. This time, the story centers on the lovable second-oldest brother and single dad, Colter Gibson, and Swayze Parish—a character that fans of Kait Nolan have already come to know and love from some of the author’s other series (e.g., *Kilted Hearts*). The plot is beautifully written in the author’s signature playful style, which sparkles with charm, irony, and self-deprecating humor—a style that always makes me smile, and, moreover, is full of heartfelt emotions, mild spice, and a whole host of likable characters. Another thing I really enjoyed was that the story is also a tribute to the musical “Mamma Mia” and to “Dirty Dancing,” both of which I love. The tropes are:

- Smalltown Romance
- Firefighter Romance
- Strangers to Neighbors to Lovers
- Single Dad
- Found Family

About the audiobook:
Like the previous audiobook, this one is also presented in a dual narration by Amy McFadden and Michael Gallagher, and once again, their performance as Swayze and Colter is spot on, perfectly capturing the emotions, warmth, humor, inner conflicts, and chemistry between the protagonists.

Globetrotter Swayze Parish had actually planned to travel to Gibson Hollow to help out after the big flood, but when her career as an influencer unexpectedly implodes following a scandal, she seizes the opportunity to go into hiding there. However, on her very first night in Gibson Hollow, her run-down rental house burns down, and she is rescued by firefighter Colter Gibson and taken in by his family.
Colter is deeply rooted in Gibson Hollow and the community. Together with his ex—who is still his best friend—he is raising his daughter. Although he longs for love and a sense of belonging, he doesn’t dare to commit to anyone, out of fear of being abandoned and in order to provide stability for his daughter. But from the very first moment, he and Swayze are drawn to each other. Colter offers Swayze half of his duplex, and slowly the new neighbors grow closer. Swayze feels at home in Gibson Hollow and can imagine staying, but then she’s offered her dream job, and Swayze has to decide what she really wants in her life…

If you like heartwarming love stories, small-town vibes, endearing characters, and want to have a good time and laughs, this story and audiobook is for you.

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the Gibson Hollow series, which features Colter's and Swayze's story to their happily ever after. This was a great addition to this wonderful series. I loved this one from cover to cover and everything in between. This plot was filled with so much love, a community that steps up to those in need, has big, wonderful families, and beautiful friendships that are like extended family members. What's not to love about this small town life?

Swayze's life has changed dramatically, and she needs time to recharge and regroup. Gibson Hallow is the place to do that. Her plans didn't include falling for a sexy single dad firefighter and his wonderful family and friends. Colter did not see her coming either, and quickly realizes she could be the one. They made a beautiful couple with palpable chemistry, and I loved that neither of them was afraid to show their vulnerability.

The characters were wonderful. I always look forward to seeing what the Sasspatch ladies have to say. Uncle Dee always adds flair to their little group. They all make me laugh with their meddling and their group chats. Swayze is a character you will instantly love, a kind and loving person full of life, with a beautiful, generous heart, who is changing lives. Swayze's family made a beautiful addition to the plot; they were all so lovable.

Colter is also generous, kind, and loving, and a wonderful father who loves his large family and his small town community. A single dad who co-parents with his best friend and has a beautiful daughter, Oakleigh, who was a little heart melter throughout the story.

If you are looking for a romance that evokes all the feels, this one is perfect for you. The plot features slow-burning romance, a found family theme, opposites attract, humour, and witty banter, reminding us that life pivots - sometimes it's bad, sometimes it's good, and sometimes it leads you to finding your happily ever after. I am loving the series and highly recommend it.

[SOS · Rating 5 out of 5]

When things go wrong for mega-influencer Swayze Parish, she packs up and heads to the small town of Gibson Hollow, NC to get out of the limelight and, hopefully, do something good. Her plan is to help the victims of last year’s flood in any way her skills allow. Unfortunately, tough times aren’t over for Swayze. Her first night in Gibson Hollow finds her in need of rescue, and her rescuer is the handsome firefighter Colton Gibson. Colton not only saves Swayze, but he makes sure that she has a safe, comfortable place to stay until she’s back on her feet.

This was such a lovely read. I loved everything about it: the writing, the pacing, the slow burn romance. What I adored the most, though, were the cast of characters supporting Swayze and Colton, especially Colton’s family and the Sasspatch Society. Every single one of them was kind and caring. That doesn’t mean that they weren’t snarky and teasing or above taking advantage when they could, which means they came across as real and human.

This is a story about a small town, fated love, and good people. It’s about community stepping to help those in need. It’s a reminder that sometimes, when things go very wrong, it’s because you aren’t where you need to be in live or in the world. It’s the way the universe corrects you and puts you on the path you need to be on in order to get to where you belong.

I highly recommend this book. At points, it’s an adventure tale, movie fiction, and of course, an amazing love story. It’s definitely worth your time.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. I thank her for her generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A single dad and the influencer next door.

Swayze Parish’s life has crashed in a big way. Once living the lush life of an influencer with ten million followers, she’s now disgraced and on the run, traveling for 43 exhausting hours from New Zealand to Gibson Hollow, NC. The quaint home with the gorgeous view she thought she rented turns out to be dilapidated and a fire hazard. When she’s rescued from a fire by a single-dad firefighter, she has no idea just how much her life is about to change…again.

Colter Gibson is a single father with no intention of letting anyone get close enough to hurt him, or his pre-teen daughter. Surrounded by the big, loud, and chaotic Gibson family (complete with a sassy grandmother, an uncle who was a famous drag queen, and his cohorts, the Sassypatch Society), Colter’s focus is firmly on raising his daughter, Oakleigh, whom he lovingly calls Twig. When he rescues Swayze and realizes she has nowhere to go and nothing left, he steps in, as any true hero would, to help.

I’ve loved everything I’ve read from Kait Nolan, whether set in Mississippi, Scotland, or here in the mountains of North Carolina. She creates stories that touch my heart and characters who make me laugh and cry in the same breath. Set against the backdrop of Gibson Hollow’s recovery after Hurricane Helene in 2024, this town feels like a character all its own. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to pitch in, be part of the healing, and soak in the strength and spirit of its people—undaunted by hardship and unafraid to love out loud.

A warm, uplifting story about bouncing back, found family, and the kind of love that shows up when you need it most.

[Sarah Furlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hero Next Door: A Single Dad Firefighter Next Door Small Town Family Romance book # 3 of the Gibson Hollow series narrated by Amy McFadden and Michael
Gallagher.


I fear that Gibson Hollow has stolen my heart, the stories just get better and better each time. Now we follow Colter and sweet Swayze who is on the run after her life was imploded due to being scammed so she runs to Gibson hollow after seeing all the recovery work Alia had done when the floods came through. She’s here to lend a helping hand, heal herself and maybe find the road she’s supposed to pave along the way. But what she doesn’t expect to find is a town who lends hands when needed and will be there when you need the push, but more than that a man who is ready for someone to choose him for once.

Hero Next Door is more than a romance; it's a very touching story about community and becoming part of something bigger than yourself. Swayze gets involved in the town campaign to rebuild the destroyed library. (If you were ever a theater kid, it's a lot of fun to watch the town work together on a fundraising production of Mamma Mia.) She also redirects professionally, helping local small businesses survive and grow by creating online brands and shopping capabilities.
You will love this very brave and likable heroine.



If you love a sweet, small-town, slow-burn romance, this is absolutely the book for you. It's the kind of story that keeps a smile on your face in all the best ways.


Next up we have the mysterious Dean and Adeline and the interaction they had during their play characters sounds like this one is going to go places no one expects.

[Morgan W · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an Advance Reader Copy (ARC). I am leaving this review voluntarily, and all opinions are my own.

Tropes:
Forced proximity
Single dad
Small-town romance
Slow burn

This was my first book by Kait Nolan, and it definitely won't be my last. Now I need to go back and read the rest of the Gibson Hollow series. I loved the small-town setting where everyone knows everyone else's business, it made the town feel like a character of its own.

Colter is the ultimate golden retriever MMC. He's a devoted, protective single dad who hasn't really let himself open up to love. Everything changes when Swayze arrives in town and loses everything in a fire on her very first night. With nowhere else to turn, she leans on Colter while trying to rebuild her life, and watching their relationship develop was one of my favorite parts of the story.

The slow-burn romance was done so well. Their connection felt natural, and I loved seeing them slowly learn to trust each other. I also have to mention the ending. I was so excited to get not one, but two epilogues. It was the perfect way to wrap up their story.

I listened to the audiobook as well, and the narrators did an incredible job bringing these characters to life. You could really hear the emotion in their performances, which made the story even more enjoyable.

If you love small-town romances with a protective single dad, a sweet slow-burn romance, and plenty of heart, I'd definitely recommend picking this one up.

[Urvashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Swayze Parish was a successful influencer with over 10 million followers until everything fell apart, leaving her reputation and credibility destroyed. Wanting a change she leaves New Zealand and moves to Gibson Hollow.
After traveling for 43 hours without sleep, she ends up at a dilapidated cabin in Gibson Hollow, that is nothing like the pictures she saw online. Sleep took over the need to figure out her accommodations, but fate had other plans and as she was sleeping the cabin caught fire.
Colter Gibson, firefighter and a single dad is the first responder in scene, not only rescues her but also introduces her to his family, who all pitch in to help her rebuild her life and slowly she gets involved with the community- helping rebuild after the flood- the actual reason she chose Gibson Hollow.
Neither expects to fall for each other, but keeping distance is not so easy when they can’t stop thinking about each other. As they fall deeper the question of she will stay forever is not a question far from Colters mind.
This was a fantastic addition to the series and I absolutely loved it. The colorful characters of The Sasspatch Society, the meddling yet well wishing family members make up the highly entertaining characters. And the chemistry between Colter and Swayze was amazingly hot. It was a beautiful and sweet romance, and the ending with Time of my life was like icing on the cake.
Absolutely loved it !

[Brea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kait Nolan delivered another cozy small-town romance that felt like wrapping up in a favorite blanket. Gibson Hollow is one of those towns that's easy to fall in love with, and the community was just as much a part of the story as the romance itself.

Swayze's life completely falls apart before she lands in town, and things somehow get even worse when the house she's renting catches fire on her very first night. Enter Colter—a firefighter, devoted single dad, and all-around good guy who can't seem to stop rescuing her. Their relationship is a slow burn built on friendship, trust, and healing rather than instant attraction, which made their connection feel genuine.

I especially loved the found-family vibes, the quirky townspeople, and all the support surrounding both Swayze and Colter. The Dirty Dancing and Mamma Mia references were a fun bonus, and I appreciated that the story focused just as much on rebuilding a life as it did on the romance.

I listened to the audiobook, and Amy McFadden and Michael Gallagher made an enjoyable narration team. They brought plenty of warmth and emotion to the characters, making it easy to get lost in Gibson Hollow.

If you're looking for a sweet small-town romance with a protective firefighter, single-dad hero, found family, and a cozy slow-burn love story, this one is worth picking up.

Thank you, Kait Nolan, for another visit to Gibson Hollow.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not sure how she does it, but this talented author delivers another wonderful and touching story in this much loved series.
This time it’s single dad, firefighter Colter Gibson, that gets his story.
Swayze Parish was on top of the world with her work as an influencer. She had over 10 million followers until everything came tumbling down. With her reputation and credibility destroyed, she leaves New Zealand and looks for refuge in a small town with few inhabitants . One where she was likely going to remain anonymous.
What she never expected to happen on her first night in the dilapidated cabin she unknowingly rented, was a fire that would leave her homeless.
When Colter comes to her rescue during the fire , he was taken by her and offers refuge.
Neither of them would have expected that he would fall for each other and that she would integrate so well with his daughter, his family and the town.
Will she be able to find peace and happiness in this little town or will the call of travel and a new start take her away?
What about Colter and his heart?
Once again the fabulous and wonderful Sasspatch Society queens make their appearance. Ladies filled with flair and heart.
I have come to love Gibson Hollow and hope more secondary characters get their stories.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own

[Joyffree · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Everything will turn out all right in the end. If it's not all right, it's not the end."

This delivered all the feels!!!

As I am known to do, I dropped into this series with Colter and Swayze's story.
I had no trouble keeping up or piecing together who was who.
I did, however, end up going back to book one after finishing this one.
I wanted to spend more time in Gibbons Hollow!
Grab a pastry and a cup of tea and hang out for a while.
Take a breather

The author did a fabulous job (I'm not sure how I had missed her work) of bringing the story and the characters to life.
The cast was the "pièce de résistance".
I felt like I was a part of the community, a part of the happenings.
The members of the Sasspatch Society make you feel right at home 😎

Back to Colter and Swayze.

Swayze was running from something that wasn't her fault. But she didnt yet know how to fix it.
She thought she had an ounce of a plan, that was until everything, quite literally, went up in smoke.
Enter Colter
Her rescuer in more ways than one

Their relationship developed so naturally.
The little insecurities
The excuses
The way Colter let her know how he felt *sigh*
There is a little angst.
A lot of humor
Family. Lots and lots of family.
Small town issues
And the sweetest of romances with all the feels!!

Highly Recommend!

[Tammy Moldovan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Choosing the life you want

I loved, loved, loved this heartwarming story about love, family, and finding home. This author is a master at creating small towns that seem so real and characters that are so relatable that it seems like you can just get into your car and take a trip there. As a result, it is so easy to dive into the story heart first and stay completely absorbed in until the very last word. And oh the feels in this one. I was feeling all the feels right along with Colter and Swayze - laughing, crying, sighing, groaning, teeth gritting, and swooning. Swayze is a graphics designer and an influencer whose reputation was ruined through no fault of her own. Her few belongings are destroyed in a fire just when she lands in small town Gibson’s Hollow. Colter is a single dad and firefighter in Gibson Hollow. He meets Swayze when he rescues her from the fire. There are immediate sparks between them but anything more has to take into account their differences and there are many. To get to their HEA will take lots of baggage unpacking, truth telling and leaps of faith. All while dealing with her sort of secret, his smothering family and the town still recovering from the devastating flood. I am loving this quirky town and its beautiful range of characters and cannot wait to read the next Gibson love story.

[Kimberly Stamiti · Rating 5 out of 5]

So excited that Swayze got her own story!
I've loved her since I "met" her in Scotland and now she is the female lead in Hero Next Door, book three of Kait Nolan's Gibson Hollow series.

When her jet setting, high profile, influencer lifestyle comes crashing down, Swayze Parish seeks out small town quiet and comfort in Gibson Hollow, a place that's recovering and rebuilding, much like Swayze herself.

However, she nearly dies in a fire on her first night, gets wrapped in kindness by the stylish and theatrical Sasspatch Society, "adopted" by the huge Gibson clan and finds herself starring in Mamma Mia! Oh, there's also the slow burn, sparks flying friendship developing with Colter, the hot single dad firefighter next door who rescued her and offers her a place to stay...

She's determined to give back to the small town that has already given her so much but will her past catch up with her? Is she reading too much into Colter's attention? Or has she finally found her place in the world?

Such a sweet and spicy, friends to lovers, recovery and redemption story, populated with beloved side characters from earlier books, this book reminds me of why Kait Nolan is one of my favorite authors!

[Colorado · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet story about fresh starts and second chances

I was very happy to return to Gibson Hollow, the North Carolina town recovering from a major flood, for this heartwarming and hopeful story about fresh starts and second chances. Swayze (yes, she's named after the actor and there are lots of great references to Dirty Dancing) escapes to the small town after her career as a social media influencer implodes only for her rental unit to literally go up in flames. She's rescued by single dad and firefighter Colter. While neither is looking for a relationship, there's a lot of chemistry and a real connection builds between the pair as they get to know each other's families, volunteer together and share some very romantic dates. Hero Next Door is more than a romance; it's a very touching story about community and becoming part of something bigger than yourself. Swayze gets involved in the town campaign to rebuild the destroyed library. (If you were ever a theater kid, it's a lot of fun to watch the town work together on a fundraising production of Mamma Mia.) She also redirects professionally, helping local small businesses survive and grow by creating online brands and shopping capabilities. You will love this very brave and likable heroine.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 3 of the series but could easily be read as a stand alone. I do feel that best to read in order as the world building is well done and one book seems to blend with the next.

Swayze is running from her old life and looking for somewhere new to put down roots. Gibson Hollow is her next step and she is determined to help this small community in the recovery process after the hurricane. What she wasn't expecting was the found family that she finds when her days just keep getting worse.

Colter has his hands full with the fire department, co-parenting his little girl and his big crazy family. Love and relationships have not been his thing as his focus has been on his little girl. Not wanting to be that dad that has woman come and go. But when a fire call has him carrying this woman from the burning house, something shifts. He finds himself letting her in.

This is a slow burn story with all the feels. Swayze finding her way in a new town. Colter opening up to his feeling and letting someone else in. The Sasspatch Society with their matchmaking interference. Gibson Hollow feels like home.

Grab your copy and enjoy the ride.

*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***

[Nathathida Atirekasâra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do love Kait Nolan's small town and big extended family romance and Gibson Hallow is exactly like that. They loved then lost but they also rebuilt their town together as well. It's very touching with the way they are.

Now it's time for Colter, a swoon-worthy firefighter hero who has sacrificed and devoted his life to his daughter, to find his own happy ending. And I was surprised that his woman is Swayze who appeared in Nolan's Kilted Hearts series!!! I have to confess that I didn't remember Swayze at first but then Nolan mentioned Sophie and I felt like I failed to not remember her (- -')

Anyway, the story is very angsty and intense with Swayze's problem at the beginning. Too intense for my liking if I have to say because I don't understand influencers' feelings these day and I also don't understand Swayze at all. She has a lovely family of her own but why she is so ashamed of her failure which, by the way, wasn't her false even.

The story is more interesting after the Gibson family took her in though. It's very sweet, swoony, and entertaining after that. And because I love the Sasspatch Society and I adore Gibson family and their friends so it's easy to give the book 5 stars even if my first impression of Swayze wasn't that good (sorry.)

[Tonje · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book started out strong. The first few chapters had good momentum, an interesting setup, and a premise that immediately caught my attention. Unfortunately, the further I got, the flatter the story felt.

The FMC's influencer background had potential, but neither her personality, background, profession or appearance felt particularly well developed. She came across as one-dimensional and forgettable, making it difficult for me to connect with her. I was also frustrated by how disproportionately angry she became with the MMC after the misjudged him still being married. Her reaction felt oddly prudish and out of proportion to the situation.

The firefighter MMC was better. Early on, he was portrayed as competent, capable, and interesting, but that aspect gradually faded away. As the story progressed, it became more of a standard small-town romance, and I simply wasn't invested enough to keep reading.

And on a personal note: over 150 pages before the first kiss is just not for me. The slow burn felt too slow, and by that point I had lost interest in the relationship altogether.

Overall, the writing itself was solid, but the characters and romance weren't engaging enough to keep me turning the pages.

[Lyn Brownlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this story 🩷
I just love my time spent in Gibson Hollow and this story brings all the feels with firefighter Colter Gibson finding his special lady.
Swayze just happens to need a quiet place to spend her Thanksgiving away from the turmoil that has become her life at the moment.
She’s a social media influencer that has had her world turned upside down with one wrong decision, impacting on her career in the worst way.
To top it off the rental she booked ends up being a dump and almost inhabitable, so when it burns down, literally around her, she finds herself being rescued by a gorgeous firefighter.
In enters Colton to save the gorgeous woman’s life.
From that moment on he becomes her saviour, swooping her up to spend time with the Gibson family, who take her under their wing along with the Sasspatch Society.
This is a fun story with the most amazing characters, a little bit of drama, some wonderful family members on both sides and a couple that are perfect for each other.
Only if Swayze decides to stay?
I had the pleasure of listening to the audiobook that was narrated by Amy McFadden and Michael Gallagher.
Their performances together are always amazing and listening to them narrate this audiobook was perfection.
Thank you to Kait Nolan, NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the opportunity to listen to this gorgeous story.

[Erin Koiso · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hero Next Door is book three in the Gibson Hollow series by Kait Nolan.
Swayze Parish's was a graphic designer and influencer that travelled the world. When a company keeps something from her and her fan base found out she lost everything. She decided to head to the Appalachians, to get away from evwrything and heal and rebuild herself. Her first night at her Gibson's Hollow rental did not go quite as planned. When a house fire ravages the home she is renting, she is saved by firefighter Colter Gibson.
Now with no place to stay and nothing to call her own. Swayze is invited into the Gibson household until she can get back on her feet. This slow burn romance gives off loads of love and family vibes. One of the best parts of this book is meetibg the Sasspatch Society. A group of retired drag queens who come together whenever needed to help in anyway they can!
What a heartwarming story that takes place in North Carolina. Where by chance, two people meet and his family slowly becomes hers.
Gibson Hollow is definitely one of those places you only dream about. I am looking foreard to reading more about Gibsons Hollow. Highly recommend.

[Lisa Petty (Book Bangers Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Colter Gibson's story, and boy, was it one I fell in love with. Colter is the one who protects everyone and makes sure no one wants for anything. A single dad who will melt your heart completely. When a fire near the homestead rings his phone, he never imagines things are about to change. Swayze was an influencer who traveled where help was needed and used her media influence to bring that help. But when things went south and her reputation was destroyed, she decided to hide for a bit. Gibson Hollow is somewhere on a map where she felt at peace. But when she shows up, it's like one nightmare after another. A fire brings her into the Gibson fold, not just that, but our lovable Sasquatch Crew. As Colter and Swayze navigate a new street, can they have something real? When her identity comes out, will Colter believe her, or will he shut her out completely? Swayze totally captured my heart right off the bat. I felt everything she felt. Kait Nolan really makes her words come into your heart. Find out what happens if she stays or goes? And will he be enough to show her they are worth staying for?

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Swayze was a graphic designer and influencer that had traveled all over the world champion good causes. There was one bad company that hid something from her and when her followers found out many of them crucified her. I felt bad that Swayze blamed herself for not checking the company she had been supporting. I was glad to see that she picked out the small town in the mountains of North Carolina that had been flooded a few years ago and was rebuilding to go recuperate. When her rental catches fire and burns to the ground, hot fireman Colton rescues her and then takes her to his grandmother’s as the large Gibson family takes care of anyone in need. Colton’s family has so many personalities that you can’t help love them and see what is going to happen next! Luckily Colton had a small duplex that he was able to rent to Swayze. You will love watching the two get to know each other better, the family that tries to do what they can to push them together, and the misunderstandings. This was such a heartwarming book. I strongly encourage you to read it.

[Lisa Benison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Kait Nolan Winner - Could Not Put Down! Loved It!

I loved everything about this book - the town, the characters (both main and background) and the plotting. The book was well written with witty banter, LOL text conversations, a fun goofy pet but was also heartfelt with real tragedy to both the town (rebuilding what floods destroyed) and Swayze who is rebuilding her career, life (after a fire destroyed all she had her first night in town) and then maybe more? with Colton the firefighter who rescued her. I enjoyed how their relationship developed slowly but naturally while they each worked through their past (not insignificant ) baggage, but also how the town and his HUGE family - especially the Sasspatch Society worked to push them together. And the Mama Mia and Dirty Dancing references had me watching both movies again just for fun and memories. The book is part of a series, but easily works as a standalone- although they are all wonderful. I can't wait for the next one - Enjoy!

I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4-4,5 stars*
I always love a good single parent story but this definitely had so many moments where there was something more that got you to feel all those feelings that made you connect to the characters. I truly enjoyed the chemistry between Colter & Swayze but also the depth to the story. Can't wait to see what comes next.

Swayze is in desperate need of a break and ends up at Gibson Hollow, hoping to law low and find a way to make a new start but when a fire breaks out at the house she's staying at, it feels like hitting a new low. After a brief meeting with Colter, he offers her a place to stay and while she recovers, Swayze is glad that the town is kind to help her out. Slowly, she's getting back on her feet but being closer to Colter, there's just something about him that draws her to him but there's still a lot that she hasn't told him yet. While their relationship is changing, the truth has a way of coming out. Colter never really let anyone really close to him again but with Swayze, it feels different. But will she stay in the end?...

[Macy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great addition to this series, though it can be ready comfortably as a standalone. Sometimes just when you think you’ve lost it all, you realize how full your cup really is. Gibson Hollow is a quirky little town with amazing people, who are kind, warm, accepting, welcoming and always will make a place for you at their table and in their hearts. Swayze rents what appears to be a wonderful house there and wants to rest, relax and figure out what is next for her after she became the victim of a scandal she had no part in creating. When the house she rented turns out to be a tinderbox and literally burns down around her with the scant belongings she owns, she is feeling truly lost until she is embraced by the Gibson family and finds her center, herself, purpose and of course love. It’s a wonderful listen that leads to a wonderful happily ever after and leaves me looking forward to the next in the series.


I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.com in exchange for a fair and honest review.