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Wild Fire #6
Make It Last
My marriage blew up. So I went to Alaska. Obviously, the logical next step.
If my cheating ex hadn’t gotten caught, I’d still be the fool who thought I had forever. Instead, I’m on a “divorce trip” in small town Alaska, trying to figure out what starting over even looks like.
I wanted to feel like myself again. What I did not want was to break my ankle on a glacier.
Enter Tanner Houlton.
Firefighter. Flannel-wearing knight. Hot enough to melt permafrost. The kind of steady, protective man who shows up to rescue anyone in need. In this me.
I’m an expert at hiding my pain behind laughter. Tanner sees right through me. He treats that version of me like she's worth knowing.
He bears his own scars. While I’ve swore off men, he’s determined to change my mind.
I came to Alaska to be find myself again. I told myself I was here to heal, not to fall. I told myself a lot of things.
A he-falls-first, slow-burn, small-town Alaska firefighter romance about a woman recovering, a man who’s willing to wait, and a love that shows up, bad timing or not.
*A full-length, standalone romance.
If my cheating ex hadn’t gotten caught, I’d still be the fool who thought I had forever. Instead, I’m on a “divorce trip” in small town Alaska, trying to figure out what starting over even looks like.
I wanted to feel like myself again. What I did not want was to break my ankle on a glacier.
Enter Tanner Houlton.
Firefighter. Flannel-wearing knight. Hot enough to melt permafrost. The kind of steady, protective man who shows up to rescue anyone in need. In this me.
I’m an expert at hiding my pain behind laughter. Tanner sees right through me. He treats that version of me like she's worth knowing.
He bears his own scars. While I’ve swore off men, he’s determined to change my mind.
I came to Alaska to be find myself again. I told myself I was here to heal, not to fall. I told myself a lot of things.
A he-falls-first, slow-burn, small-town Alaska firefighter romance about a woman recovering, a man who’s willing to wait, and a love that shows up, bad timing or not.
*A full-length, standalone romance.
290 pages, Paperback
Published August 9, 2026
About the author
J.H. Croix
144 books1,535 followersUSA Today bestselling author J. H. Croix writes emotionally charged, steamy small town Alaska romance featuring protective firefighter and first responder heroes with big hearts and smart, strong heroines. Best known for her interconnected series set in Willow Brook, Alaska, Croix creates immersive fictional communities where the town itself becomes a character and found family is at the heart of every love story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
August 7, 2026
Make it Last😘
Make it Last is Ava & Tanner’s story and what an amazingly heartfelt tale it was🙌
Ava originally finds herself in Alaska with her friends for her “divorce trip” during spring, only to decide to make the trip again when snow is on the ground. Unfortunately, she breaks her ankle and finds herself being carried out by Tanner, the hotshot firefighter🙌 I loved the easy banter between the couple - I had a few great laughs. I loved the friendship dynamics with the ladies and I especially loved the chemistry with Tanner and how good and kind he was…definitely knows how to treat a lady😍
I’m hoping we get to learn more about Sophie, Tanner’s sister☺️ I received an advanced copy via Booksprout and willingly leave my honest review❤️🩹
Make it Last is Ava & Tanner’s story and what an amazingly heartfelt tale it was🙌
Ava originally finds herself in Alaska with her friends for her “divorce trip” during spring, only to decide to make the trip again when snow is on the ground. Unfortunately, she breaks her ankle and finds herself being carried out by Tanner, the hotshot firefighter🙌 I loved the easy banter between the couple - I had a few great laughs. I loved the friendship dynamics with the ladies and I especially loved the chemistry with Tanner and how good and kind he was…definitely knows how to treat a lady😍
I’m hoping we get to learn more about Sophie, Tanner’s sister☺️ I received an advanced copy via Booksprout and willingly leave my honest review❤️🩹
August 9, 2026
Make It Last
Another great Wild Fire story. When a mishap occurs, only to be rescued by a Firefighter, who seems to strike a spark for you both. You both have feelings for each other, yet there are past demons that linger trying to stir up negative emotions. The hidden attraction, feelings, and events keeping they coming back to getting together. Beautiful story about two people who find themselves attracted and truly drawn towards each other, shows their true feelings and open up to each other.
Another great Wild Fire story. When a mishap occurs, only to be rescued by a Firefighter, who seems to strike a spark for you both. You both have feelings for each other, yet there are past demons that linger trying to stir up negative emotions. The hidden attraction, feelings, and events keeping they coming back to getting together. Beautiful story about two people who find themselves attracted and truly drawn towards each other, shows their true feelings and open up to each other.
August 10, 2026
🏔️❤️ Sometimes Getting Stranded Leads You Home ❤️🏔️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 🌶️🌶️
Apparently the logical response to getting divorced is to go to Alaska. And after reading Make It Last, I'm starting to think Ava might be onto something. 😂🏔️
Ava's marriage didn't simply end. It imploded after discovering her husband was cheating on her with her boss. She's trying to figure out who she is after everything she thought was permanent disappeared, and a return trip to Alaska with her friends is supposed to give her another chance to breathe.
Instead, she breaks her ankle on a glacier.
Enter Tanner Houlton.
Hotshot firefighter. Small-town good guy. Flannel-wearing rescuer. And the very attractive man tasked with carrying Ava down the mountain on his back.
Honestly, there are worse ways to end a hike. 😂🔥
What begins as a rescue quickly becomes something much sweeter when Ava's injury requires surgery and an extended stay in Willow Brook. Her friends have to leave, but Tanner can't stop thinking about the funny, brave woman he rescued. He tells himself visiting her in the hospital is simply the decent thing to do.
Sure, Tanner.
We believe you. 😏
I absolutely adored these two together.
Ava uses humor to hide a lot of hurt, but Tanner sees through it. Her marriage left behind emotional scars and damaged her confidence in ways she's still discovering. Yet Ava is also funny, fierce, brave, and wonderfully capable of flirting the heck out of Tanner when she decides to let herself enjoy the moment.
Tanner is exactly the kind of MMC I love.
He's kind, compassionate, protective, competent, and refreshingly good at communicating. He doesn't swoop into Ava's life and decide he knows what's best for her. He listens. He notices. He shows up.
And underneath that capable firefighter exterior, Tanner has his own wounds.
His former fiancée left him believing he was boring and too safe, and those words affected him more deeply than he likes to admit. Tanner isn't interested in casual relationships, so rather than risk being hurt again, he's largely kept that part of himself closed off.
Until Ava.
Watching these two slowly trust one another with the pieces of themselves that previous relationships had damaged was probably my favorite part of their romance. Their vulnerability didn't make either character weaker. It allowed them to recognize just how much their past relationships had shaped the stories they'd been telling themselves.
And little by little, they start writing different ones together. ❤️🩹
Their chemistry is wonderful too. There's an easy connection between them that makes the progression from attraction to friendship to something deeper feel natural. And after Ava's experience with her ex left her questioning herself in more ways than one, I loved Tanner showing her that she was NEVER the problem.
Hello, two chili peppers. 🌶️🌶️🔥
But this story isn't only about falling in love with Tanner.
It's about Ava falling back in love with her own life.
That's where Willow Brook became so important to me. Ava arrives without any idea what comes next. Going back to Seattle means returning to a life connected to both her cheating ex and cheating boss. Being unexpectedly stuck in Alaska gives her something she hadn't planned for: time.
Time to heal.
Time to think.
Time to discover that starting over doesn't necessarily mean rebuilding the exact same life somewhere else.
And the people of Willow Brook made that possibility even sweeter. I loved the way this community immediately rallied around Ava after her injury. Everyone knows everyone and apparently everything happening in town 😂, but there's such genuine warmth underneath that small-town nosiness. The friendships, Tanner's fellow crew members, and the growing found family gave this story such a cozy feeling.
And then there's Growly.
A SUPPORT CAT NAMED GROWLY. 🐈
Obviously, I loved him.
There are also outside complications and some unwelcome reminders of the past, but I appreciated how much of Ava and Tanner's story came down to communication. They don't magically erase each other's scars. They talk. They listen. They trust each other with uncomfortable truths. And through that honesty, they begin realizing that what happened before doesn't have to dictate what happens next.
Make It Last was funny, romantic, emotional, comforting, and incredibly easy to get lost in. Ava and Tanner have the kind of relationship that makes you want to settle into their world and stay awhile.
I loved watching two people who had both been made to feel like they weren't enough discover that they were never asking for too much.
They'd simply been asking the wrong people.
A broken marriage sent Ava to Alaska.
A broken ankle forced her to stay.
And somewhere between the two, she found a new version of herself, an entire community ready to welcome her, and a firefighter who made her believe in possibilities again.
Sometimes the detour really does lead you exactly where you're supposed to be. 🏔️❤️
Thank you to J.H. Croix and Booksprout for the gifted advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 🌶️🌶️
Apparently the logical response to getting divorced is to go to Alaska. And after reading Make It Last, I'm starting to think Ava might be onto something. 😂🏔️
Ava's marriage didn't simply end. It imploded after discovering her husband was cheating on her with her boss. She's trying to figure out who she is after everything she thought was permanent disappeared, and a return trip to Alaska with her friends is supposed to give her another chance to breathe.
Instead, she breaks her ankle on a glacier.
Enter Tanner Houlton.
Hotshot firefighter. Small-town good guy. Flannel-wearing rescuer. And the very attractive man tasked with carrying Ava down the mountain on his back.
Honestly, there are worse ways to end a hike. 😂🔥
What begins as a rescue quickly becomes something much sweeter when Ava's injury requires surgery and an extended stay in Willow Brook. Her friends have to leave, but Tanner can't stop thinking about the funny, brave woman he rescued. He tells himself visiting her in the hospital is simply the decent thing to do.
Sure, Tanner.
We believe you. 😏
I absolutely adored these two together.
Ava uses humor to hide a lot of hurt, but Tanner sees through it. Her marriage left behind emotional scars and damaged her confidence in ways she's still discovering. Yet Ava is also funny, fierce, brave, and wonderfully capable of flirting the heck out of Tanner when she decides to let herself enjoy the moment.
Tanner is exactly the kind of MMC I love.
He's kind, compassionate, protective, competent, and refreshingly good at communicating. He doesn't swoop into Ava's life and decide he knows what's best for her. He listens. He notices. He shows up.
And underneath that capable firefighter exterior, Tanner has his own wounds.
His former fiancée left him believing he was boring and too safe, and those words affected him more deeply than he likes to admit. Tanner isn't interested in casual relationships, so rather than risk being hurt again, he's largely kept that part of himself closed off.
Until Ava.
Watching these two slowly trust one another with the pieces of themselves that previous relationships had damaged was probably my favorite part of their romance. Their vulnerability didn't make either character weaker. It allowed them to recognize just how much their past relationships had shaped the stories they'd been telling themselves.
And little by little, they start writing different ones together. ❤️🩹
Their chemistry is wonderful too. There's an easy connection between them that makes the progression from attraction to friendship to something deeper feel natural. And after Ava's experience with her ex left her questioning herself in more ways than one, I loved Tanner showing her that she was NEVER the problem.
Hello, two chili peppers. 🌶️🌶️🔥
But this story isn't only about falling in love with Tanner.
It's about Ava falling back in love with her own life.
That's where Willow Brook became so important to me. Ava arrives without any idea what comes next. Going back to Seattle means returning to a life connected to both her cheating ex and cheating boss. Being unexpectedly stuck in Alaska gives her something she hadn't planned for: time.
Time to heal.
Time to think.
Time to discover that starting over doesn't necessarily mean rebuilding the exact same life somewhere else.
And the people of Willow Brook made that possibility even sweeter. I loved the way this community immediately rallied around Ava after her injury. Everyone knows everyone and apparently everything happening in town 😂, but there's such genuine warmth underneath that small-town nosiness. The friendships, Tanner's fellow crew members, and the growing found family gave this story such a cozy feeling.
And then there's Growly.
A SUPPORT CAT NAMED GROWLY. 🐈
Obviously, I loved him.
There are also outside complications and some unwelcome reminders of the past, but I appreciated how much of Ava and Tanner's story came down to communication. They don't magically erase each other's scars. They talk. They listen. They trust each other with uncomfortable truths. And through that honesty, they begin realizing that what happened before doesn't have to dictate what happens next.
Make It Last was funny, romantic, emotional, comforting, and incredibly easy to get lost in. Ava and Tanner have the kind of relationship that makes you want to settle into their world and stay awhile.
I loved watching two people who had both been made to feel like they weren't enough discover that they were never asking for too much.
They'd simply been asking the wrong people.
A broken marriage sent Ava to Alaska.
A broken ankle forced her to stay.
And somewhere between the two, she found a new version of herself, an entire community ready to welcome her, and a firefighter who made her believe in possibilities again.
Sometimes the detour really does lead you exactly where you're supposed to be. 🏔️❤️
Thank you to J.H. Croix and Booksprout for the gifted advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 7, 2026
A second trip to Alaska with her friends to commemorate her divorce leads to a broken ankle for Ava, as well as new opportunities in love and life. After breaking her ankle while on a hike to a glacier, Ava is rescued by the very handsome Tanner, a local hotshot firefighter. In this small town, everybody soon hears about it and all about Ava’s stay being extended due to her injury and resultant surgery. Not only are the residents friendly and very helpful, but Ava gets visited by Tanner who she has been unable to forget. His strength, kindness and charm made quite the impression on her, as did his very attractive physique. She tells herself that she has sworn off men after her disastrous marriage, but there is just something about Tanner that sparks all kinds of feelings within her.
Tanner has not been lucky in the love department either. His ex fiancée called him and boring and too safe when she broke off their engagement. He has been unable to forget that and has guarded his heart ever since. Tanner is not a guy who does casual well, so he has pretty much kept to himself when it comes to dating. He considers himself a good guy and so do the residents of this small town, so he tells himself that visiting Ava in the hospital is just a common courtesy after rescuing her. He doesn’t like to think about her being alone and lonely in the hospital since her friends had to leave. Tanner is reluctant to acknowledge the attraction he feels toward her, though he does acknowledge that he likes her humour, bravery and curves. A kiss at her bedside certainly has him taking notice of those sparks.
The kind hospital staff find Ava a place to stay will she recovers that just happens to be very close to Tanner’s place. The two find themselves spending a lot of time together, talking about their pasts, their family drama and obligations, and exploring the sparks between them. Ava’s ex had been a selfish and unsatisfying lover and Tanner is very happy to show her that the fault did not lie with her. Both are soon aware of their deepening feelings for each other, but keep those feelings to themselves since her stay is only temporary. Or is it? She has been looking to make some changes in her life and maybe those changes could include moving to Alaska.
I loved the small town setting, where everyone knows everyone and everything that is going on. I also loved the way that the citizens welcomed Ava and supported her after she was injured. The sizzling chemistry and easy connection between Ava and Tanner was captivating. I enjoyed the humorous moments, but the moments when they were vulnerable with each other really made this book more engaging. This book has my recommendation.
Tanner has not been lucky in the love department either. His ex fiancée called him and boring and too safe when she broke off their engagement. He has been unable to forget that and has guarded his heart ever since. Tanner is not a guy who does casual well, so he has pretty much kept to himself when it comes to dating. He considers himself a good guy and so do the residents of this small town, so he tells himself that visiting Ava in the hospital is just a common courtesy after rescuing her. He doesn’t like to think about her being alone and lonely in the hospital since her friends had to leave. Tanner is reluctant to acknowledge the attraction he feels toward her, though he does acknowledge that he likes her humour, bravery and curves. A kiss at her bedside certainly has him taking notice of those sparks.
The kind hospital staff find Ava a place to stay will she recovers that just happens to be very close to Tanner’s place. The two find themselves spending a lot of time together, talking about their pasts, their family drama and obligations, and exploring the sparks between them. Ava’s ex had been a selfish and unsatisfying lover and Tanner is very happy to show her that the fault did not lie with her. Both are soon aware of their deepening feelings for each other, but keep those feelings to themselves since her stay is only temporary. Or is it? She has been looking to make some changes in her life and maybe those changes could include moving to Alaska.
I loved the small town setting, where everyone knows everyone and everything that is going on. I also loved the way that the citizens welcomed Ava and supported her after she was injured. The sizzling chemistry and easy connection between Ava and Tanner was captivating. I enjoyed the humorous moments, but the moments when they were vulnerable with each other really made this book more engaging. This book has my recommendation.
August 8, 2026
4.5 Stars-Insta-Cute Romance
As we head back to Willowbrook, Alaska, we get up close and personal with Tanner and recent divorcee Ava. Tanner is a hometown boy and hotshot firefighter, while Ava is back in Willowbrook to celebrate her divorce.
The meet-cute was just that, cute. While on an excursion with her girlfriends, Ava breaks her ankle, and of course, hotshot/EMT Tanner is there to the rescue. Carrying her piggyback was the most efficient way to get her off the mountain, so to say they were insta-up-close and personal is putting it mildly.
I liked both Tanner and Ava. He was rugged and all-around a good guy. His heart was broken years before by his high school sweetheart, who told him she wasn’t happy with his good-guy persona and that he was beige…boring. I felt that was incredibly sad; however, I loved that Tanner didn’t change his ways. Ava is super outgoing and doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind. She divorced a man who took her for granted and made her feel less than. To say these two found each other at the perfect time is an understatement.
The logistics seemed to be the crux of the storyline. It was obvious Tanner and Ava would get along. The problem was that she was on vacation, she actually lives in Seattle. Chapter after chapter, they grow closer, and Ava finally needs to make a decision.
The book is well written, with some steamy pages and a smidge of angst that gets solved pretty quickly. Along with our main characters, the characters from previous books are present, which is something I like in a series. That said, Make It Last can be read as a standalone.
Review for Renee Entress’s Blog.
As we head back to Willowbrook, Alaska, we get up close and personal with Tanner and recent divorcee Ava. Tanner is a hometown boy and hotshot firefighter, while Ava is back in Willowbrook to celebrate her divorce.
The meet-cute was just that, cute. While on an excursion with her girlfriends, Ava breaks her ankle, and of course, hotshot/EMT Tanner is there to the rescue. Carrying her piggyback was the most efficient way to get her off the mountain, so to say they were insta-up-close and personal is putting it mildly.
I liked both Tanner and Ava. He was rugged and all-around a good guy. His heart was broken years before by his high school sweetheart, who told him she wasn’t happy with his good-guy persona and that he was beige…boring. I felt that was incredibly sad; however, I loved that Tanner didn’t change his ways. Ava is super outgoing and doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind. She divorced a man who took her for granted and made her feel less than. To say these two found each other at the perfect time is an understatement.
The logistics seemed to be the crux of the storyline. It was obvious Tanner and Ava would get along. The problem was that she was on vacation, she actually lives in Seattle. Chapter after chapter, they grow closer, and Ava finally needs to make a decision.
The book is well written, with some steamy pages and a smidge of angst that gets solved pretty quickly. Along with our main characters, the characters from previous books are present, which is something I like in a series. That said, Make It Last can be read as a standalone.
Review for Renee Entress’s Blog.
August 9, 2026
When Ava planned her first divorce trip to a small town in Alaska she never imagined that she would want to go again. Of course, she also didn’t think on that second trip she would fall on a glacier, break her ankle, have a hotshot firefighter rescue her and carry her down the mountain, get a cat and fall in love either. Yet all those things did happen to her and Ava realized maybe it was exactly what she needed to truly heal not just from the broken ankle but from everything that occurred in her life over the past few years. There was just something about this small town, where everyone knew everybody as well as everything that was happening. Tanner was dealing with his own problems, so romance was the farthest thing from his mind. But after rescuing Ava, he just couldn’t stop thinking about her, something just kept drawing him back to her. When they were together there was this magic and he didn’t want it to go away. They would just have to figure out how to make it work.
There are so many ways I could have written this review and told the story but it was hard to decide which one. I love JH Croix’s writing and have read her books based in Alaska for years. They all capture your attention from the start, characters coming from all walks of life and come together in this magical way. While it is a series, you can come in at anytime and read them. Of course then that means you have to go back and get all of the other ones. Oh shucks yet more books to add to the long TBR list I have.
Thanks to Wildfire Marketing and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
There are so many ways I could have written this review and told the story but it was hard to decide which one. I love JH Croix’s writing and have read her books based in Alaska for years. They all capture your attention from the start, characters coming from all walks of life and come together in this magical way. While it is a series, you can come in at anytime and read them. Of course then that means you have to go back and get all of the other ones. Oh shucks yet more books to add to the long TBR list I have.
Thanks to Wildfire Marketing and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy
Second Chances
Ava is on her "divorce trip" to Willow Brook, Alaska with two of her best friends. They go on a hike and end up at a glacier. Ava is afraid to jump across the glacier even though it's safe according to the guide. She jumps but lands hard on her ankle breaking it. The rescue firefighters arrive and the best way to get off the mountain is for Tanner, the hotshot firefighter, to carry her down. Ava is really impressed by Tanner and his strength to give her the piggyback ride down the mountain. He takes her to the hospital and waits for the results. She has to stay in the hospital for a couple days and then rehab for her ankle. Tanner visits her and they begin a friendship. He helps her move into a rental and brings her food. She meets a group of friends who meet to play cards. Ava begins to feel more at home in Willow Brook than her home in Seattle. Tanner is holding back on the romance since he doesn't know if she's staying and having been left at the altar by his fiance. Ava isn't sure she wants romance either because of her divorce. Will Ava decide that Tanner and Willow Brook are her real home and stay? Will Tanner decide to put his feelings on the line for a relationship with Ava? This is a wonderful addition to this series. I liked seeing how friendly the people are in Willow Brook and take Ava under their wings to support her. I received an early copy to read from Booksprout. I'm leaving my honest review.
Ava is on her "divorce trip" to Willow Brook, Alaska with two of her best friends. They go on a hike and end up at a glacier. Ava is afraid to jump across the glacier even though it's safe according to the guide. She jumps but lands hard on her ankle breaking it. The rescue firefighters arrive and the best way to get off the mountain is for Tanner, the hotshot firefighter, to carry her down. Ava is really impressed by Tanner and his strength to give her the piggyback ride down the mountain. He takes her to the hospital and waits for the results. She has to stay in the hospital for a couple days and then rehab for her ankle. Tanner visits her and they begin a friendship. He helps her move into a rental and brings her food. She meets a group of friends who meet to play cards. Ava begins to feel more at home in Willow Brook than her home in Seattle. Tanner is holding back on the romance since he doesn't know if she's staying and having been left at the altar by his fiance. Ava isn't sure she wants romance either because of her divorce. Will Ava decide that Tanner and Willow Brook are her real home and stay? Will Tanner decide to put his feelings on the line for a relationship with Ava? This is a wonderful addition to this series. I liked seeing how friendly the people are in Willow Brook and take Ava under their wings to support her. I received an early copy to read from Booksprout. I'm leaving my honest review.
August 15, 2026
Make It Last was such a comforting, feel-good read, exactly the kind of small town romance you want to curl up with. Heroine's marriage blowing up and her fleeing straight to Alaska for a "divorce trip" is such a fun, chaotic way to start the story, love a woman who processes her heartbreak by throwing herself into glaciers and wilderness she's completely unprepared for.
Tanner was such a good hero, that steady, protective firefighter energy paired against her guarded, "swore off men" attitude made for such a great dynamic. I loved that he wasn't just there to rescue her physically after the ankle injury, he actually sees past the loud laughter she's using to cover her pain, which gave their connection so much more depth than just proximity and chemistry.
What really got me was learning he's got his own scars too, it wasn't just her healing while he stayed the perfectly steady rock the whole time, watching him be vulnerable back made the slow burn hit so much harder. J.H. Croix always nails that found-family, small-town warmth, and this one delivered that in spades.
Only reason it's not a full 5 is I wanted just a little more time exploring Tanner's backstory, felt like his scars got mentioned more than actually unpacked. But overall such a healing, swoony, cozy read, and a great addition to the Wild Fire series. Perfect if you're in the mood for a slow burn, small town romance about learning to trust again.
Tanner was such a good hero, that steady, protective firefighter energy paired against her guarded, "swore off men" attitude made for such a great dynamic. I loved that he wasn't just there to rescue her physically after the ankle injury, he actually sees past the loud laughter she's using to cover her pain, which gave their connection so much more depth than just proximity and chemistry.
What really got me was learning he's got his own scars too, it wasn't just her healing while he stayed the perfectly steady rock the whole time, watching him be vulnerable back made the slow burn hit so much harder. J.H. Croix always nails that found-family, small-town warmth, and this one delivered that in spades.
Only reason it's not a full 5 is I wanted just a little more time exploring Tanner's backstory, felt like his scars got mentioned more than actually unpacked. But overall such a healing, swoony, cozy read, and a great addition to the Wild Fire series. Perfect if you're in the mood for a slow burn, small town romance about learning to trust again.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Make It Last is such a fun and heartful read. Tanner is the ultimate book boyfriend—kind, caring, compassionate, confident, and competent. He shows up for everyone, including himself, and is not afraid to use his words when appropriate. His past carries hurts and trauma, and he uses his experiences to grow and be a better person each moment. Ava is funny, ferocious, and brave. She escaped an abusive marriage and is reinventing herself as she figures it where to go next. I love her moments of self-confidence where she flirts with Tanner hardcore and lets herself just be in the moment. That he recognizes what she needs and wants and opens up to her is so beautiful. Her vulnerability is definitely a strength for her as she heals and seals her last chapter. Triggering past trauma is addressed with honesty, forthrightness, and grace, enhancing the relatability of the main characters and what they are traversing. The side dramas that come along with these two getting to know each other add plot twists and challenges that help them both grow beautifully, and Growly is just pawesome!!! I adore the world author JH Croix continues to build, and this story is such a great addition to the growing found family in this small
Alaskan town.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Alaskan town.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2026
Love when you least expect it…
Tanner is a hotshot firefighter in Willow Brook, Alaska. Since his ex-fiancé broke up with him three years ago, he told himself he was done with relationships. That as until Ava showed up. She’s from Seattle, visiting Alaska on a divorce trip. Her ex cheated on her with her boss. She needed a break and decided to go a vacation with her girlfriends. While hiking a glacier, Ava broke her ankle and needed to be carried down the mountain. Tanner was the lucky rescuer, carrying her piggy-back down the mountain.
Since Ava broke 2 bones, she was in traction, then needed physical therapy. This was a great excuse to stay in Alaska and figure out what she wanted next. Did she want to return to her old job with her cheating ex and cheating boss?
This is a TERRIFFIC book!!! Once you start it, you will finish it in one sitting. The friendship/chemistry between Ava and Tanner is amazing. This book has it all - love, a support cat named Growly, amazing new friends and fellow crew mates that always have your back! A must read!!!
“Ava was a lot of things. Unexpected, bright, alive, funny and fierce. But mostly, she made me feel something I hadn’t felt in a while - a sense of possibility and joy… Every chance you didn’t take, you lost, so the cliché went."
Tanner is a hotshot firefighter in Willow Brook, Alaska. Since his ex-fiancé broke up with him three years ago, he told himself he was done with relationships. That as until Ava showed up. She’s from Seattle, visiting Alaska on a divorce trip. Her ex cheated on her with her boss. She needed a break and decided to go a vacation with her girlfriends. While hiking a glacier, Ava broke her ankle and needed to be carried down the mountain. Tanner was the lucky rescuer, carrying her piggy-back down the mountain.
Since Ava broke 2 bones, she was in traction, then needed physical therapy. This was a great excuse to stay in Alaska and figure out what she wanted next. Did she want to return to her old job with her cheating ex and cheating boss?
This is a TERRIFFIC book!!! Once you start it, you will finish it in one sitting. The friendship/chemistry between Ava and Tanner is amazing. This book has it all - love, a support cat named Growly, amazing new friends and fellow crew mates that always have your back! A must read!!!
“Ava was a lot of things. Unexpected, bright, alive, funny and fierce. But mostly, she made me feel something I hadn’t felt in a while - a sense of possibility and joy… Every chance you didn’t take, you lost, so the cliché went."
August 9, 2026
After her divorce, Ava in now on her second divorce trip to Alaska with a couple of her friends. The first trip was so memorable that they decided to return. In this trip they hiked to a glacier. She was fearful to walk across the glacier but decided to do it. When they had to do a small leap from the glacier to solid ground, Ava landed wrong on her ankle. This is where Tanner Houlton comes in. He is a hotshot firefighter and carried her out on his back to where he was parked and took her to the ER. She had two bad breaks and needed surgery and because of the breaks, would need a long recovery time. Everyone in that small Alaskan town was so sweet to her and Tanner was no different. Between her cheating husband and Tanner’s scars from the treatment of his fiancée before they had broken up a couple years ago, they seemed to work through the abuse they received and find they were great together. As this was going on, Ava knew she loved this town and wanted to stay but she had to let her family know she wasn’t abandoning them and that she would still support them. She just needed to get a job somewhere else as her boss was the one cheating with her husband. Learn how everything worked out to the better for everyone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2026
Make It Last with such a fun, small town, hot shot firefighter story. Ava meets Tanner in a definitely unique way when she breaks her ankle on the top of a gacier and needs rescued. The problem is that she is far from home on vacation in a small Alaskan town and not only needs surgery but a place to recover because traveling is not an option right away. Luckily for Ava this small town is filled with amazing people that quickly become close friends of hers including the firefighter that carried her down the glacier. The connection Ava feels towards Tanner is scary to her since she is fresh off of being divorced and still trying to decide what she wants with her life. Tanner had his heart broken in the past and isn't looking for romance, but the connection he feels when he's close to Ava is too hard to ignore. Before long they are breaking down each other's walls and realizing that they both deserve a shot at happily ever after even if it shows up in an unexpected way. I really enjoyed the storyline of this book and the writing kept it flowing. There were a few moments when I thought everything was working out too perfectly but there is a little bit of drama thrown in to give some suspense and had me wondering how everything is going to work out. Definitely a must read book and series for sure. I can't wait to revisit this little town and see what everybody is up to.-By Alisa
August 14, 2026
Well, if small towns with a caring firefighter and a sassy and strong woman are books that pull you, then I suggest picking up Make It Last. Ms. Croix delivers just that and more. This is the sixth book in this spectacular series and it is one of my favourites in the series. She gives us a story filled with found family, healing, friendships, fantastic banter, a little angst, and a beautiful slow-burn love that blooms into something wonderful.
Who knew that saving a woman on a glacier would see you thinking about love and relationships? Well, this is what happened when Tanner, a hotshot firefighter, answered the call to a rescue. Ava, on her second divorce trip, was not expecting to need to be rescued but when the rescuer gave he a piggyback to safety, something shifted in her. Both of these characters have baggage, scars from relationships that changed their views of love. Tanner fell at first sight and Ava could feel the pull as well.
Tanner is the perfect man; yes, I know that people say there is no such thing as "the perfect man"; however, I will argue that there is. He showed Ava that she is a beautiful woman who is nothing like what her ex made her believe. Ava was perfect for him, as her outgoing personality showed him that he was not "beige" as his ex told him. They healed one another, showed each other that love was possible and worth the risk.
Who knew that saving a woman on a glacier would see you thinking about love and relationships? Well, this is what happened when Tanner, a hotshot firefighter, answered the call to a rescue. Ava, on her second divorce trip, was not expecting to need to be rescued but when the rescuer gave he a piggyback to safety, something shifted in her. Both of these characters have baggage, scars from relationships that changed their views of love. Tanner fell at first sight and Ava could feel the pull as well.
Tanner is the perfect man; yes, I know that people say there is no such thing as "the perfect man"; however, I will argue that there is. He showed Ava that she is a beautiful woman who is nothing like what her ex made her believe. Ava was perfect for him, as her outgoing personality showed him that he was not "beige" as his ex told him. They healed one another, showed each other that love was possible and worth the risk.
August 7, 2026
We are back to Willow Brook for a visit with all our friends from the different series. I love that these books feel like a trip back home.
Apparently the whole town is like that as Ava is returning to Willow Brook for a second divorce trip with her besties. She loved the place so much the first time. A fun afternoon quickly turns into a whole new situation with Ava breaking her ankle and needing time to heal. With the help of some very friendly hospital staff, she decides to stay while she heals. This giving her some much needed thinking time. Time to decide what she wants to do next with her life.
Tanner is happily living life on his terms, no relationship, since his ex-fiance broke things off with him a couple of years ago. He has some past issues and the hurtful things she said when leaving, he has kept pretty closed off since then. But when the beauty he has to carry down the mountain, chatters his ear all the way down. He might have other things in mind.
Grab your copy and watch how this meet by chance turns into a friendship, that might just maybe what neither of them knew they were looking for. Wonder what Ava will decide to do next in her life. Is a move to Alaska in the cards?
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
Apparently the whole town is like that as Ava is returning to Willow Brook for a second divorce trip with her besties. She loved the place so much the first time. A fun afternoon quickly turns into a whole new situation with Ava breaking her ankle and needing time to heal. With the help of some very friendly hospital staff, she decides to stay while she heals. This giving her some much needed thinking time. Time to decide what she wants to do next with her life.
Tanner is happily living life on his terms, no relationship, since his ex-fiance broke things off with him a couple of years ago. He has some past issues and the hurtful things she said when leaving, he has kept pretty closed off since then. But when the beauty he has to carry down the mountain, chatters his ear all the way down. He might have other things in mind.
Grab your copy and watch how this meet by chance turns into a friendship, that might just maybe what neither of them knew they were looking for. Wonder what Ava will decide to do next in her life. Is a move to Alaska in the cards?
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
August 7, 2026
Ava is in Alaska for her divorce trip with her friends. Hoping to put the past behind her, she is enjoying this second visit in a different season and loving the small town. Little did she expect to have an injury in which a gorgeous firefighter would piggyback her down the mountain and that she won’t be able to head home at this time. Tanner was burned by the breakup with his high school sweetheart that had referred to him as “beige”. He likes being around the perky and sassy Ava. He knows that he will never want another relationship but quickly befriends Ava. The small town comes together to help her in her time of need while recuperating before she can go home. But will she? As she makes new friends in town, adopts Growly, and receives a job offer, she is starting to think about a change in her life. No Tanner’s ex is back in town and has set her sights on him and she will stop at no bounds. Loved this HEA of two people who were burned by love slowly work their way back together. The author makes you feel a part of this small town like that the characters feel like they are right there with you. This is a must read as well as any book from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2026
Oh to be back in Alaska is a gift and more so with our “glorified backpack” Ava and friends 😂
So Ava and friends are in Alaska to get over Ava’s divorce while on a hike on the glaciers she takes a fall and
“ Tan the rescue man” is coming to her aid with hilarious moments and I was already invested within the first few chapters ❣️😂 and creating names like “Avatan” for what I know is going to be the best match ever 🤷♀️I’m hopeless I know 🙃
So Ava has to recoup in hospital and flying home isn’t really an option and the idea of wWillow Brook become her new home is looking very tempting and I can’t say I blame her 😉
Tanner comes and checks on her during rehab , she makes friends , plays cards and lives a good life and she deserves it , her parents will learn to be independent of her .
Tanner also has scars but these two are really each others healing balm and I loved laughing with them , crying with them and cheering them especially when Ava takes Tanner’s ex on so fearlessly , you go girl !
The people of Willow Brook crept into my a long time ago and if ever o could climb into a book this series would be it 🥰love you guys and see you soon I believe there’ll be more to follow 🥰📚
Loved the cover art and the cover title because you really do want to make it last 🥰📚😉
August 18, 2026
Ava is on her second trip to Alaska with her two best friends after her divorce. While hiking out on a glacier their guide says they must make a small jump that is safe, Ava is hesitant but goes for it and breaks her ankle. Once the rescue firefighters show up, they decide the best and fastest way to get Ava off the mountain would be for Tanner, a hotshot firefighter, to carry her down on his back. A connection forms between Tanner and Ava. Ava's recovery and physical therapy force Ava to extend her stay in Alaska. Tanner finds reasons to check in on Ava. As their attraction grows, will Ava and Tanner give into their feelings for each other? Will Tanner decide to let go of his baggage and give a relationship with Ava a shot? Will Ava decide to stay with Tanner in Willow Brook? Will someone from Tanner's past try to come between him and Ava? Will Tanner and Ava find their happily ever after? I loved Make It Last by J.H. Croix. Tanner and Ava are a great couple with amazing chemistry! I absolutely loved Growly, the cat! I would highly recommend getting Make It Last and the other books in the Wild Fire series by J.H. Croix. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
*4,5 stars*
Well I needed a minute to know how to not only rate this book but also how to review it, as I just enjoyed reading every chapter and watching the relationship between the lead characters Tanner & Ava grow and develop. It was also refreshing which made me love the characters even more but there was something special that drew me to the story; not to mention when animals are written into a book it adds a little extra to it for me. Can't wait to see what comes next in this series.
When Ava is on a trip, the least she expected was to have a broken ankle but somehow she's not really mad about it as it makes her think about her life and where she is going. When she meets Tanner, he's a lifesaver but there's also something about him that draws her to him. Tanner has had bad luck with love but is fully focused on his job but meeting Ava seems to change a lot and there's just an instant attraction between them but he knows that she's not staying forever. As the days go by and the closer Tanner & Ava get, it's getting harder to let go. Ava loves the small town and keeps on thinking about a possible move but will love be enough in the end...
Well I needed a minute to know how to not only rate this book but also how to review it, as I just enjoyed reading every chapter and watching the relationship between the lead characters Tanner & Ava grow and develop. It was also refreshing which made me love the characters even more but there was something special that drew me to the story; not to mention when animals are written into a book it adds a little extra to it for me. Can't wait to see what comes next in this series.
When Ava is on a trip, the least she expected was to have a broken ankle but somehow she's not really mad about it as it makes her think about her life and where she is going. When she meets Tanner, he's a lifesaver but there's also something about him that draws her to him. Tanner has had bad luck with love but is fully focused on his job but meeting Ava seems to change a lot and there's just an instant attraction between them but he knows that she's not staying forever. As the days go by and the closer Tanner & Ava get, it's getting harder to let go. Ava loves the small town and keeps on thinking about a possible move but will love be enough in the end...
August 7, 2026
Apparently the cure for divorce-itis is a trip to small-town Alaska and a humble firefighter. Honestly? Solid plan.
I really liked Tanner and Ava together. Tanner won me over with the quiet way he consistently showed up for her, no grand gestures needed. He was steady, humble, and just genuinely good. Definitely not beige (IYKYK). I also loved that when problems came up, they actually worked through them together instead of creating unnecessary drama.
But honestly, one of my favorite things about J.H. Croix’s books continues to be the friendships. Willow Brook feels like the kind of fictional small town where you could show up knowing no one and somehow have six best friends and dinner plans by Friday. That sense of community & chosen family is what makes returning to these books feel so comforting.
A divorce celebration trip turning into a broken ankle, an extended stay in small-town Alaska, and an unexpected love story? Yes, please. Make It Last was sweet, warm, and another reminder that J.H. Croix is dangerously good at making Alaska sound like a perfectly reasonable place to relocate.
I really liked Tanner and Ava together. Tanner won me over with the quiet way he consistently showed up for her, no grand gestures needed. He was steady, humble, and just genuinely good. Definitely not beige (IYKYK). I also loved that when problems came up, they actually worked through them together instead of creating unnecessary drama.
But honestly, one of my favorite things about J.H. Croix’s books continues to be the friendships. Willow Brook feels like the kind of fictional small town where you could show up knowing no one and somehow have six best friends and dinner plans by Friday. That sense of community & chosen family is what makes returning to these books feel so comforting.
A divorce celebration trip turning into a broken ankle, an extended stay in small-town Alaska, and an unexpected love story? Yes, please. Make It Last was sweet, warm, and another reminder that J.H. Croix is dangerously good at making Alaska sound like a perfectly reasonable place to relocate.
August 7, 2026
Ava was with her girlfriends on Alaska trip to celebrate her divorce from Brad...and was hiking back country glacier with their guide, but when leaped over crevice, landed wrong and broke her ankle...She was carried down the trail by Tanner, a breath-taking site himself, chatting all the way down while riding piggy-back, to where could take vehicle to hospital...of course her friends had to leave while she was recovering from surgery and in Willow Creek until done with physical training...meanwhile making friends with hospital personnel and Tanner steadily visiting...After released from hospital, PT began, and was able to get rental house and foster a cat...Willow Creek feeling more like home than her home in Seattle where her ex-husband had affair with her boss, making going back to office "strange in creepy way"...but could she stay??? Tanner hopes so since this is first woman he's dated seriously since broke up with his fiancé years ago...but you will need to read this delightful story to see what happens...I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A definite MUST READ!
Another captivating tale from one of my favorite authors that will have you hooked from the very beginning! I can't get enough of these wonderful characters in small town Alaska.
I loved how Ava was mentioned in a previous book traveling to Alaska with her friends on her divorce trip and now we get to know her and her story as she finds her HEA with hotshot firefighter Tanner.
Even though this is book 6 of the series, it can be read standalone. However, I recommend reading the others in the series to get the full nuances of all these wonderful characters in Willow Brook Alaska. You’ll be as charmed as I am.
If there’s one thing we can’t change, it’s the past. The mistakes we make are the lessons we need and they shape our lives into what we are destined to be. We all deserve all the goodness life brings our way.
If you love wonderful characters, intrigue, and steamy scenes you will love this! I can’t wait to see what’s next for this small town!
Another captivating tale from one of my favorite authors that will have you hooked from the very beginning! I can't get enough of these wonderful characters in small town Alaska.
I loved how Ava was mentioned in a previous book traveling to Alaska with her friends on her divorce trip and now we get to know her and her story as she finds her HEA with hotshot firefighter Tanner.
Even though this is book 6 of the series, it can be read standalone. However, I recommend reading the others in the series to get the full nuances of all these wonderful characters in Willow Brook Alaska. You’ll be as charmed as I am.
If there’s one thing we can’t change, it’s the past. The mistakes we make are the lessons we need and they shape our lives into what we are destined to be. We all deserve all the goodness life brings our way.
If you love wonderful characters, intrigue, and steamy scenes you will love this! I can’t wait to see what’s next for this small town!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love Willow Brook Alaska!!! Willow Brook just grows those heros.
This installment centers around Hot Shot Firefighter Tanner. He is grumpy, single and not looking to mingle. That is until he rescues a hot and energetic woman named Ava. Ava is in Willow Brook for her divorce party number 2. And it did not end the way she thought it would.
This story centers around two people who struggle to believe in themselves after getting out of horrible relationships. Those relationships have scarred them deeply and trust does not come easy for them. But new friendships and an adorable, yet rough looking stray ease the way to healing. This book has wonderful characters that just give you the feels with every book. This story is sweet and kind with a lot of caring and loyalty.
Overall this book is a fun and feel good read. It has hope, laughs, and love. A real entertaining read that is sure to entertain for hours. I highly recommend this read along with the others in this series. Even though it is a series you can read this book as a standalone.
This installment centers around Hot Shot Firefighter Tanner. He is grumpy, single and not looking to mingle. That is until he rescues a hot and energetic woman named Ava. Ava is in Willow Brook for her divorce party number 2. And it did not end the way she thought it would.
This story centers around two people who struggle to believe in themselves after getting out of horrible relationships. Those relationships have scarred them deeply and trust does not come easy for them. But new friendships and an adorable, yet rough looking stray ease the way to healing. This book has wonderful characters that just give you the feels with every book. This story is sweet and kind with a lot of caring and loyalty.
Overall this book is a fun and feel good read. It has hope, laughs, and love. A real entertaining read that is sure to entertain for hours. I highly recommend this read along with the others in this series. Even though it is a series you can read this book as a standalone.
Want to Read
August 6, 2026Ava traveling to Willow Brook. She came with a group of woman because it’s a divorce trip in Alaska.. Ava was trying to walk on glacier she broke ankle. When they call for help, she got a guy named Tanner. He carried her all the way down the mountain to get her to the hospital.. He stayed until he knew she was ok. The chemistry was off the chart, but each one was filling it and didn’t know if the other was.. In in the hospital. She had quite a few visitors her friends visit before they left. Go back home to Seattle and Tanner visits several times. Holly was her nurse , when Ava was released
Holly her place to stay..She got to her place and it was a nice place, but she was logging that boot
around on her foot. She got lonely being there by herself, but then the girls had card at her place.Tanner would her dinner a couple nights. She ask to watch a cat name growly.She was asked to take a job . If she took the job she would have to home and packed her clothes..You have to read to know what happened between Ava and Tanner, if took the job. This was a nice read.
Holly her place to stay..She got to her place and it was a nice place, but she was logging that boot
around on her foot. She got lonely being there by herself, but then the girls had card at her place.Tanner would her dinner a couple nights. She ask to watch a cat name growly.She was asked to take a job . If she took the job she would have to home and packed her clothes..You have to read to know what happened between Ava and Tanner, if took the job. This was a nice read.
August 9, 2026
Ava’s marriage ended because her husband was cheating on her with her boss. She and her friends come to Willow Brook, Alaska on a divorce trip. She loves it so much that she comes back. On a trip to the glacier she breaks her ankle and has to be carried down the mountain by Tanner, who is part of the rescue team. He is a hotshot firefighter with his own issues from the past. His high school sweetheart broke up with him and said some pretty nasty things at the time. They’ve shaped his image of himself to a certain extent. Ava has to stay in Alaska while her ankle heals. She loves the town and loves the people and despite her issues learns to love Tanner too. Tanner and Ava spend lots of time together but both have been burned by previous relationships so they are wary. Then Tanner’s ex comes back to town. This is a wonderful story. You’ll really enjoy seeing the build up to Tanner and Ava’s relationship and seeing how the whole thing plays out.
I received an ARC copy from Booksprout and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC copy from Booksprout and this is my honest review.
August 9, 2026
Ava enjoyed her first trip to Alaska to celebrate her divorce that her friends arranged another one for her. An accident on the glacier has her being piggybacked by Tanner, the firefighter who came to her rescue, down the mountain and bringing her to the hospital. It didn’t end there as he was there while she recovered and has her wondering if Willow Brook and with Tanner is where she belongs.
Tanner was engaged to his high school sweetheart and the reasons she gave for ending their relationship have left him with insecurities. Knowing that Ava is alone in town he wants to be there for her and as they spend time together he realizes that the feelings he has for her are unlike anything he has ever felt before however she has a life and a job to return to in Seattle.
This is a heartwarming story that features two people who still bear the emotional scars of their last relationship. Their open communication and the way they trust each other with their pasts solidifies their feelings for each other and shows them that the only place they belong is with each other.
Tanner was engaged to his high school sweetheart and the reasons she gave for ending their relationship have left him with insecurities. Knowing that Ava is alone in town he wants to be there for her and as they spend time together he realizes that the feelings he has for her are unlike anything he has ever felt before however she has a life and a job to return to in Seattle.
This is a heartwarming story that features two people who still bear the emotional scars of their last relationship. Their open communication and the way they trust each other with their pasts solidifies their feelings for each other and shows them that the only place they belong is with each other.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t remember the last time I read a J.H. Croix book, but I see that I am going to have to put her books on my never ending TBR. I have not read the other books in the Wild Fire series, but since they are all standalone, I didn’t have a problem getting into this series. Ava and Tanner were an interesting couple trying to get to the finish line of their relationship,but there are obstacles! Ava is on a divorce trip to the Alaskan town when she breaks her ankle on a mountain hiking excursion and Tanner, as a rescuer brings her down the mountain. They connect somewhat, but both have baggage. Because of her broken ankle she stays in the little town to heal and realizes that this may be where she wants to live, but first has to deal with all she left behind. Tanner also has issues but since this is a romance, we know they will eventually have a HEA. The getting there is the fun part, and makes the story all the more enjoyable.
August 7, 2026
Make it Last is hotshot firefighter Tanner and recently divorced Ava’s friends to lovers romance. It’s book six in the Wild Fire Series and I fell hard and fast for this couple.
Ava is on a divorce holiday with her best friends to Willow Brook, Alaska when hiking on a glacier she needs to jump across a gap and ends up with a badly broken ankle. When the firefighters arrive to rescue her it’s Tanner who offers to give her a piggyback down the mountain and that’s when the fun and games begin……
Tanner visits her in hospital and when she is released she ends up being his neighbor. What starts a friendship soon turns into so much more but is she ready to take another chance on love.
I fell hard and fast for Tanner and I adored Ava but it was a group of women who befriended her that took this book to another level with their friendship and witty banter. This is a well written, entertaining read that left me smiling.
Ava is on a divorce holiday with her best friends to Willow Brook, Alaska when hiking on a glacier she needs to jump across a gap and ends up with a badly broken ankle. When the firefighters arrive to rescue her it’s Tanner who offers to give her a piggyback down the mountain and that’s when the fun and games begin……
Tanner visits her in hospital and when she is released she ends up being his neighbor. What starts a friendship soon turns into so much more but is she ready to take another chance on love.
I fell hard and fast for Tanner and I adored Ava but it was a group of women who befriended her that took this book to another level with their friendship and witty banter. This is a well written, entertaining read that left me smiling.
August 7, 2026
I absolutely loved this book, the town and all the characters!
I completely adored Ava and Tanner together; their meet-cute was certainly unique. Tanner—the text book golden-retriever hero— he stepped up and looked after her while she recovered.
The small-town found-family dynamics in Willow Brook is the highlight of the book, everyone is just so sweet, nice and helpful. A fiercely supportive group of women and friendly locals, would make anyone want to move there.
I loved the witty banter from Ava, and the chemistry between her and Tanner was off the charts. Both had healing journey's, but they were with the perfect person for that journey.
I love the low-angst, and feel-good read that I've come to expect from this author.
✓ Small Town Romance
✓ Hotshot Firefighter Hero
✓ Stranded / Rescue Romance
✓ Divorced Heroine (Fresh Start)
✓ He Falls First
✓ Grumpy vs. Sunshine Vibes
✓ Slow Burn Chemistry
✓ Deeply Protective MMC
✓ Hurt / Comfort
✓ Spicy Heat
I completely adored Ava and Tanner together; their meet-cute was certainly unique. Tanner—the text book golden-retriever hero— he stepped up and looked after her while she recovered.
The small-town found-family dynamics in Willow Brook is the highlight of the book, everyone is just so sweet, nice and helpful. A fiercely supportive group of women and friendly locals, would make anyone want to move there.
I loved the witty banter from Ava, and the chemistry between her and Tanner was off the charts. Both had healing journey's, but they were with the perfect person for that journey.
I love the low-angst, and feel-good read that I've come to expect from this author.
✓ Small Town Romance
✓ Hotshot Firefighter Hero
✓ Stranded / Rescue Romance
✓ Divorced Heroine (Fresh Start)
✓ He Falls First
✓ Grumpy vs. Sunshine Vibes
✓ Slow Burn Chemistry
✓ Deeply Protective MMC
✓ Hurt / Comfort
✓ Spicy Heat
August 10, 2026
Ava is on divorce trip #2 to Willow Brook, Alaska when she brakes her ankle hiking a glacier with her friends. Unable to make her way down by herself, they call for assistance. What she doesn't expect is the stunningly handsome firefighter who turns up to save her.
Tanner knows that he will need to carry Ava down, because it will be faster than a sling between him & his partner. What's he doesn't expect is to feel a connection to Ava immediately.
Both have had some form of trauma in their lives, spending time with each other, helps both of them heal. They had a lovely chemistry & I loved how Tanner took his time getting to know her. Ava took a chance after swearing off men after her divorce as well.
This was such a feel-good romance, I loved that Ava stood up for Tanner when his ex came back to town & I love that Tanner did everything he could to help her while she was hurt.
This was a steamy, slow burn, heal from their past story & I loved every word. Enjoy!
Tanner knows that he will need to carry Ava down, because it will be faster than a sling between him & his partner. What's he doesn't expect is to feel a connection to Ava immediately.
Both have had some form of trauma in their lives, spending time with each other, helps both of them heal. They had a lovely chemistry & I loved how Tanner took his time getting to know her. Ava took a chance after swearing off men after her divorce as well.
This was such a feel-good romance, I loved that Ava stood up for Tanner when his ex came back to town & I love that Tanner did everything he could to help her while she was hurt.
This was a steamy, slow burn, heal from their past story & I loved every word. Enjoy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
We return to Willowbrook, Alaska for a rescue meet-cute between Tanner and Ava.
Ava has returned to Willowbrook with her friends as they loved it when they came previously in the summer on a 'divorce trip'. So now they want to experience the winter.
"Life shifted in surprising ways. Sometimes the worst chapters cracked open the door to the best ones."
Tanner, a hotshot firefighter rescues Ava from a glacier after she slips and breaks her ankle.
"I lived next door on the property my parents had sold to me. I built a house there, fully intending to marry my ex and settle into a life she eventually decided she didn’t want."
Tanner is an archetypal 'golden retriever' hero and is absolutely delightful. Ava is a sassy heroine and they both have issues relating to their exes.
This is the best Willowbrook story so far, a definite must read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and am leaving a completely honest review.
Ava has returned to Willowbrook with her friends as they loved it when they came previously in the summer on a 'divorce trip'. So now they want to experience the winter.
"Life shifted in surprising ways. Sometimes the worst chapters cracked open the door to the best ones."
Tanner, a hotshot firefighter rescues Ava from a glacier after she slips and breaks her ankle.
"I lived next door on the property my parents had sold to me. I built a house there, fully intending to marry my ex and settle into a life she eventually decided she didn’t want."
Tanner is an archetypal 'golden retriever' hero and is absolutely delightful. Ava is a sassy heroine and they both have issues relating to their exes.
This is the best Willowbrook story so far, a definite must read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and am leaving a completely honest review.
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