What do you think?
Rate this book
Northwoods #1
Heart of the Woods
"The Ugly Duckling is just a fairy tale...In real life, the swan always has a broken wing. It makes it impossible to fly.”
When Levi left college to convince his grandmother to pack up her off-the-grid life in the Northwoods of Minnesota and return to civilization, he never expected to lose an argument and stay. He didn’t expect to fall in love either. In the small Missouri farm town where he grew up, Levi was a skinny gay kid with glasses scared of his own shadow and the tormentors who lurked in the hallways of his high school. A rugged life on Lone Cedar Lake helped him blossom into an attractive, muscular young man, but the underlying insecurities remained.
Brandon fell in love with the lakes and woods during a spring break visit with a college friend. Upon graduation, he began building a wilderness guide business that gave him the capital to buy his first house at age 24. A downturn in the local economic atmosphere sent him scrambling to shore up the bottom line. He thought a new wilderness route to the mysterious Lone Cedar Lake would be just the ticket to lure in new clients.
While exploring for the new route, Brandon spotted Levi in another canoe. Their first encounter led to a physical battle on the forest floor, but soon, an attraction they couldn’t ignore blossomed. Unfortunately, romance won’t be so easy when the mysteries of the past threaten to stand in their way.
Heart of the Woods is a 55,000-word ugly duckling romance set in the Northwoods of Minnesota. It includes steamy scenes, a happily-ever-after ending, canoes paddling in the wilderness, and some of the best stargazing on earth.
When Levi left college to convince his grandmother to pack up her off-the-grid life in the Northwoods of Minnesota and return to civilization, he never expected to lose an argument and stay. He didn’t expect to fall in love either. In the small Missouri farm town where he grew up, Levi was a skinny gay kid with glasses scared of his own shadow and the tormentors who lurked in the hallways of his high school. A rugged life on Lone Cedar Lake helped him blossom into an attractive, muscular young man, but the underlying insecurities remained.
Brandon fell in love with the lakes and woods during a spring break visit with a college friend. Upon graduation, he began building a wilderness guide business that gave him the capital to buy his first house at age 24. A downturn in the local economic atmosphere sent him scrambling to shore up the bottom line. He thought a new wilderness route to the mysterious Lone Cedar Lake would be just the ticket to lure in new clients.
While exploring for the new route, Brandon spotted Levi in another canoe. Their first encounter led to a physical battle on the forest floor, but soon, an attraction they couldn’t ignore blossomed. Unfortunately, romance won’t be so easy when the mysteries of the past threaten to stand in their way.
Heart of the Woods is a 55,000-word ugly duckling romance set in the Northwoods of Minnesota. It includes steamy scenes, a happily-ever-after ending, canoes paddling in the wilderness, and some of the best stargazing on earth.
159 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2018
57 people are currently reading
62 people want to read
About the author
Grant C. Holland
29 books53 followersGrant C. Holland is an author of gay romance. He lives in the upper Midwest enjoying friends, family, great food, and putting stories with happy endings into writing.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 12, 2021
What an awesome start to a new series!!!
Wow... Complex characters and incredible use of the setting for the book. The author made me feel like I was actually there!
Wow... Complex characters and incredible use of the setting for the book. The author made me feel like I was actually there!
August 19, 2018
Unfortunately this really didn't work for me.
The main characters had absolutely no chemistry, behaved in very strange ways and I didn't buy that they were in love, although they decided they were boyfriends almost the minute they met.
The blurb sounded really nice and had me interested immediately, but the story unfolded so slowly it was always very close to boring for me.
What really bothered me, was the way those 2 handled some difficult situations, especially Levy was so immature, it grated on my nerves.
All in all the concept of this book was fabulous, the book itself unfortunately was not.
2.5 stars
The main characters had absolutely no chemistry, behaved in very strange ways and I didn't buy that they were in love, although they decided they were boyfriends almost the minute they met.
The blurb sounded really nice and had me interested immediately, but the story unfolded so slowly it was always very close to boring for me.
What really bothered me, was the way those 2 handled some difficult situations, especially Levy was so immature, it grated on my nerves.
All in all the concept of this book was fabulous, the book itself unfortunately was not.
2.5 stars
August 24, 2018
I liked the general concept of the book, and there were some great elements in the story, but there were a few things that threw me out of the story.
Things I liked:
--Levi-He was such a sweet character with a lot of bullying in his past, but he has made the best of his situation while helping his grandmother. He was stronger than he gave himself credit for.
--Brandon-I thought he was a great guy. Definitely didn't see him as a player like was alluded to, but he was a great nature guy and very driven with his work. He seemed to jump in with all feet and go for what he wants.
--Levi's grandmother-she was such a fierce, strong woman. I loved her interactions with Levi and Brandon.
--Great description of the outdoors and laying under the stars. It was so peaceful.
Things I didn't love:
--Brandon was made out to be someone who had commitment issues, but I didn't get that vibe at all. He was upset when his last boyfriend left and he jumped head first into a relationship with Levi. It made no sense that he would have commitment issues.
--I get that it was a stressful situation, but it seemed out of character for Levi to pull away from Brandon when things got tough. He was so all in with the relationship, and for him to pull away seemed a bit off. Luckily it didn't stay that way, but it made me go "huh???"
--When Levi was in his off period, he finds love letters from his grandparents and has a lot of introspection. Well I assume so, because this was all off page! This, I thought, was pretty critical to the advancement of Levi and Brandon's relationship. It takes Levi to a place where he is ready to take the next step and love Brandon forever. And all we see is him show up and whisper "I love you" in Brandon's ear. I really felt like this was glossed over. I'm not saying we need to read every letter with him, but having a little insight into his thought process over those couple of days would've made me believe in their love story a little more.
--There was so much build up of their relationship, but all of the important stuff happened at the end and seemed to be glossed over.
--What the heck is up with Gabe? Is he really just a friend, or is he still in love with Brandon? I kept waiting for some drama to come out of that because he keeps bringing up how Brandon is hot and gorgeous and afraid of commitment. Sounded jealous to me at times.
--Lastly, Brandon tells Levi that he won't tell his secrets, but immediately tells his besties the truth. Now, Gabe would've needed to know when everything went downhill for Levi's grandmother, but it was brought up and everyone kept this secret. Sure, I guess it shows integrity of his friends to keep their mouth shut, but I wish Brandon had kept his mouth shut until he got Levi's permission to tell them.
Overall a good story with just a few niggles. I did enjoy the overall plot.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
Things I liked:
--Levi-He was such a sweet character with a lot of bullying in his past, but he has made the best of his situation while helping his grandmother. He was stronger than he gave himself credit for.
--Brandon-I thought he was a great guy. Definitely didn't see him as a player like was alluded to, but he was a great nature guy and very driven with his work. He seemed to jump in with all feet and go for what he wants.
--Levi's grandmother-she was such a fierce, strong woman. I loved her interactions with Levi and Brandon.
--Great description of the outdoors and laying under the stars. It was so peaceful.
Things I didn't love:
--Brandon was made out to be someone who had commitment issues, but I didn't get that vibe at all. He was upset when his last boyfriend left and he jumped head first into a relationship with Levi. It made no sense that he would have commitment issues.
--I get that it was a stressful situation, but it seemed out of character for Levi to pull away from Brandon when things got tough. He was so all in with the relationship, and for him to pull away seemed a bit off. Luckily it didn't stay that way, but it made me go "huh???"
--When Levi was in his off period, he finds love letters from his grandparents and has a lot of introspection. Well I assume so, because this was all off page! This, I thought, was pretty critical to the advancement of Levi and Brandon's relationship. It takes Levi to a place where he is ready to take the next step and love Brandon forever. And all we see is him show up and whisper "I love you" in Brandon's ear. I really felt like this was glossed over. I'm not saying we need to read every letter with him, but having a little insight into his thought process over those couple of days would've made me believe in their love story a little more.
--There was so much build up of their relationship, but all of the important stuff happened at the end and seemed to be glossed over.
--What the heck is up with Gabe? Is he really just a friend, or is he still in love with Brandon? I kept waiting for some drama to come out of that because he keeps bringing up how Brandon is hot and gorgeous and afraid of commitment. Sounded jealous to me at times.
--Lastly, Brandon tells Levi that he won't tell his secrets, but immediately tells his besties the truth. Now, Gabe would've needed to know when everything went downhill for Levi's grandmother, but it was brought up and everyone kept this secret. Sure, I guess it shows integrity of his friends to keep their mouth shut, but I wish Brandon had kept his mouth shut until he got Levi's permission to tell them.
Overall a good story with just a few niggles. I did enjoy the overall plot.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
April 15, 2025
This is a love story that develops from an inherited love story, and it's great.
In this first book in a series about the northwoods of Minnesota, where inhabitants are sparse, a man driven to expand his guide business with environmental sensitivities meets a generational protector of a special lake. Brandon had built the environmentally friendly guide business on his love of the lakes in the great Northwoods.
The author fantastically describes the natural beauty, clear skies, and even the power of the Northern Lights to evoke and endear this magic space.
While exploring new territories for his light-environmental touch tours, he found a man acting on his family's trust to care for his grandmother in a well-hidden cabin on the lake. The two have some immediate sexual attraction, even though Levi fights Brandan to keep him and his charges away from the pristine lake. Levi is present to care for his grandmother, who recently lost her husband and desires to maintain her off-grid lifestyle in the cabin his grandfather constructed.
Keeping it secret is also keeping his grandmother's secret work—paintings that sell for thousands of dollars in New York City. Levi has to take them out of the woods and to a nearby town by canoe. A dealer assists in safeguarding the rumor that the artist lives in seclusion with her family.
She wants her grandson to have a fulfilling life and believes she's a burden for him to keep company with and to take care of her. She finds joy in Brandon's charm and acceptance of Levi's task. Levi faces challenges while keeping his promise to care for his grandmother, who refuses to move into the city. Meanwhile, Brandon's interloper status occasionally causes issues for Levi. Despite these rocky passages, the two fall in love.
Grant Holland does a masterful job of using contextual clues during storytelling to further the story rather than rattling off the backstory each time. His method of starting a chapter seemingly without place, time, or who exactly is speaking is almost cinematic in moving the story along with the contextual clues.
Although the author's blurb mentions the Ugly Duckling, the story has a happy ending for our two lovers, and that story plays a relatively minor role.
In this first book in a series about the northwoods of Minnesota, where inhabitants are sparse, a man driven to expand his guide business with environmental sensitivities meets a generational protector of a special lake. Brandon had built the environmentally friendly guide business on his love of the lakes in the great Northwoods.
The author fantastically describes the natural beauty, clear skies, and even the power of the Northern Lights to evoke and endear this magic space.
While exploring new territories for his light-environmental touch tours, he found a man acting on his family's trust to care for his grandmother in a well-hidden cabin on the lake. The two have some immediate sexual attraction, even though Levi fights Brandan to keep him and his charges away from the pristine lake. Levi is present to care for his grandmother, who recently lost her husband and desires to maintain her off-grid lifestyle in the cabin his grandfather constructed.
Keeping it secret is also keeping his grandmother's secret work—paintings that sell for thousands of dollars in New York City. Levi has to take them out of the woods and to a nearby town by canoe. A dealer assists in safeguarding the rumor that the artist lives in seclusion with her family.
She wants her grandson to have a fulfilling life and believes she's a burden for him to keep company with and to take care of her. She finds joy in Brandon's charm and acceptance of Levi's task. Levi faces challenges while keeping his promise to care for his grandmother, who refuses to move into the city. Meanwhile, Brandon's interloper status occasionally causes issues for Levi. Despite these rocky passages, the two fall in love.
Grant Holland does a masterful job of using contextual clues during storytelling to further the story rather than rattling off the backstory each time. His method of starting a chapter seemingly without place, time, or who exactly is speaking is almost cinematic in moving the story along with the contextual clues.
Although the author's blurb mentions the Ugly Duckling, the story has a happy ending for our two lovers, and that story plays a relatively minor role.
August 15, 2018
Lively chemistry between these two men and even the secondary characters.
Brandon and Levi were both "out" and looking for that special someone who could make their life complete. Brandon ran a tour business taking said tourists on wilderness canoe excursions on the lakes of northern Minnesota (BCWA) but the business was in a slump so he's decided to canoe to List Cedar Lake to scout out the potential site. This lake has rumors of a mysterious death, disappearing people, and the legendary Wendigo. What he does find is Levi, the grandson and caregiver of artist Isabel Daly. These two discover in each other what both have been looking for all their separate lives: love and acceptance. This is a very emotional story that rang true in today's world. Brandon found his ideal man; a man who was both a lover and a companion. For Levi he found the love of a man that could transcend the love of his grandmother. Levi could be compared to a caterpillar turning into a beautiful butterfly because of his love for Brandon. Though this is their story the others characters of Gabe, Elle, Grandma Isabel, and even the ghost and memory of Grandpa Walter contributed such a poignant addition to the pace and flavor of this story. Let me just say that I did get an ARC of this heart felt story and this review is totally voluntary but I fell in love with the writing so much that when it was released i did but it.
Brandon and Levi were both "out" and looking for that special someone who could make their life complete. Brandon ran a tour business taking said tourists on wilderness canoe excursions on the lakes of northern Minnesota (BCWA) but the business was in a slump so he's decided to canoe to List Cedar Lake to scout out the potential site. This lake has rumors of a mysterious death, disappearing people, and the legendary Wendigo. What he does find is Levi, the grandson and caregiver of artist Isabel Daly. These two discover in each other what both have been looking for all their separate lives: love and acceptance. This is a very emotional story that rang true in today's world. Brandon found his ideal man; a man who was both a lover and a companion. For Levi he found the love of a man that could transcend the love of his grandmother. Levi could be compared to a caterpillar turning into a beautiful butterfly because of his love for Brandon. Though this is their story the others characters of Gabe, Elle, Grandma Isabel, and even the ghost and memory of Grandpa Walter contributed such a poignant addition to the pace and flavor of this story. Let me just say that I did get an ARC of this heart felt story and this review is totally voluntary but I fell in love with the writing so much that when it was released i did but it.
August 16, 2018
I so enjoyed this heartwarming story where nature and scenery are as important as the budding romance between Brandon and Levi.
Brandon has achieved a lot in his 24 years and is quite mature. I sometimes forgot his relative youth. He also has far more experience than Levi, and has recently been abandoned by a boyfriend. Nevertheless, he falls almost instantly for Levi and is supportive of him right from the start. I like how he can recognise and work through his commitment issues.
Levi is so special. After being bullied at school and now never quite comfortable in his own skin, living away from civilisation has become his solace. The times with his Grandma Daley are sensitively (and uniquely) written. How many young men would be prepared to intimately wash their grandmother? I felt privileged to read this scene.
To me, Brandon and Levi work well as a couple. Neither is more likeable than the other. Neither overwhelms the other. Any angst is soon worked out, although I did have to remind myself that Levi's actions were understandable. Their chemistry is hot yet doesn't overpower the story.
Three secondary characters stand out and beautifully support the narrative...Grandma Daley, Gabe and Elle, and there is enough plot to hold my interest. I hope that Gabe gets his happy ending soon and I want to know more about Sam!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Brandon has achieved a lot in his 24 years and is quite mature. I sometimes forgot his relative youth. He also has far more experience than Levi, and has recently been abandoned by a boyfriend. Nevertheless, he falls almost instantly for Levi and is supportive of him right from the start. I like how he can recognise and work through his commitment issues.
Levi is so special. After being bullied at school and now never quite comfortable in his own skin, living away from civilisation has become his solace. The times with his Grandma Daley are sensitively (and uniquely) written. How many young men would be prepared to intimately wash their grandmother? I felt privileged to read this scene.
To me, Brandon and Levi work well as a couple. Neither is more likeable than the other. Neither overwhelms the other. Any angst is soon worked out, although I did have to remind myself that Levi's actions were understandable. Their chemistry is hot yet doesn't overpower the story.
Three secondary characters stand out and beautifully support the narrative...Grandma Daley, Gabe and Elle, and there is enough plot to hold my interest. I hope that Gabe gets his happy ending soon and I want to know more about Sam!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 15, 2018
I was very interested in the story line of this book but it fell a little short for me.
I enjoyed the MC's. Brandon is the strong business owner, looking to explore new locations for his business and decides on Lone Cedar Lake. This is where he stumbles across Levi.
Levi lives on the lake with his grandmother, isolated from civilisation, keeping her company and caring for her each day. He's turned from the skinny boy with glasses to a muscled man earned by hard work around the lake.
Upon meeting, the two grow close despite the logistics of where each man lives. But with such different lives can the two make anything together?
The setting of this story is beautiful! Grant has written everything so well that you can just imagine yourself there right along with the characters.
I struggled to connect with the relationship between the two characters. The speed and connection of it going a lot faster than their inner monologues and actions would have suggested leading up to their meeting.
We have some great secondary characters in Elle, Gabe, and Grandma Daley. The bring a lot to the story, evoking emotion, giving support and friendship.
There are several characters I look forward to reading more about further in in the series, hoping that I can enjoy the following one a little more.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
I enjoyed the MC's. Brandon is the strong business owner, looking to explore new locations for his business and decides on Lone Cedar Lake. This is where he stumbles across Levi.
Levi lives on the lake with his grandmother, isolated from civilisation, keeping her company and caring for her each day. He's turned from the skinny boy with glasses to a muscled man earned by hard work around the lake.
Upon meeting, the two grow close despite the logistics of where each man lives. But with such different lives can the two make anything together?
The setting of this story is beautiful! Grant has written everything so well that you can just imagine yourself there right along with the characters.
I struggled to connect with the relationship between the two characters. The speed and connection of it going a lot faster than their inner monologues and actions would have suggested leading up to their meeting.
We have some great secondary characters in Elle, Gabe, and Grandma Daley. The bring a lot to the story, evoking emotion, giving support and friendship.
There are several characters I look forward to reading more about further in in the series, hoping that I can enjoy the following one a little more.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
August 20, 2018
🌲Gentle story of love, loyalty and loss in the great North Woods of Minnesota🌿
August 17, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍👍4.5 stars
Very touching MM 💕 romance with two very likable young adult protagonists. Brandon, the gregarious owner of a backwoods adventure travel company, loves to hang out with his friends and work with his clients. He also loves 🚣 nature and seems high on the wilderness of the forests and lakes of northern Minnesota. On the other hand, Levi lives in seclusion, hesitant to meet new people as he fears criticism or ridicule like he faced from school bullies in his teens. As a thoughtful and tender caregiver for his frail Grandma Daley in their off the grid cabin in the woods, he has insulated himself from cruelty but also cut himself off from friendship and romance.
Like in the other stories I've read by Grant Holland, family and friendship are integral parts of the story. I really like this style of story and romance. Holland balances Levi's concerns about Grandma Daley with his wonder and excitement at his new friendship with Brandon. There is some 🔥 heat, but this is more 💚romance than steamy hook-ups and the end, though somewhat bittersweet, is satisfying and some elements a bit unexpected.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
August 17, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition
👍👍4.5 stars
Very touching MM 💕 romance with two very likable young adult protagonists. Brandon, the gregarious owner of a backwoods adventure travel company, loves to hang out with his friends and work with his clients. He also loves 🚣 nature and seems high on the wilderness of the forests and lakes of northern Minnesota. On the other hand, Levi lives in seclusion, hesitant to meet new people as he fears criticism or ridicule like he faced from school bullies in his teens. As a thoughtful and tender caregiver for his frail Grandma Daley in their off the grid cabin in the woods, he has insulated himself from cruelty but also cut himself off from friendship and romance.
Like in the other stories I've read by Grant Holland, family and friendship are integral parts of the story. I really like this style of story and romance. Holland balances Levi's concerns about Grandma Daley with his wonder and excitement at his new friendship with Brandon. There is some 🔥 heat, but this is more 💚romance than steamy hook-ups and the end, though somewhat bittersweet, is satisfying and some elements a bit unexpected.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
August 15, 2018
Almost Too Adorable for Words
I love anything Grant C. Holland writes, and I really like his covers (although I am guessing here that Brandon is on the left and Levi on the right--they look so much alike). This one clearly written up well in the blurb, and it's a unique beginning for a setting in which there aren't that many people, but some of the main ones in town are gay. Or, at least tolerant.
Therefore, we are left to a description of the life of Levi and his grandmother, who live alone in a cabin in the remotest part of Minnesota, but not all that remote from Brandon's location where he owns an outdoor adventure outfit.
Levi has a ton of issues, but when Brandon stumbles upon him, he seems to throw caution to the wind despite his past experiences. Brandon doesn't think he has any issues, yet he fails to catch on that his previously promiscuous ways, and several ex-boyfriends, give Levi great pause when it comes time to carry their affair further.
I liked them both, and the wonderful plot twists that come as a result of something that happens to Grandma kept me up past my bedtime. But I finished this one in a short time and am eager to see how Mr. Holland expands the scope of these little towns and its residents as he goes on.
I love anything Grant C. Holland writes, and I really like his covers (although I am guessing here that Brandon is on the left and Levi on the right--they look so much alike). This one clearly written up well in the blurb, and it's a unique beginning for a setting in which there aren't that many people, but some of the main ones in town are gay. Or, at least tolerant.
Therefore, we are left to a description of the life of Levi and his grandmother, who live alone in a cabin in the remotest part of Minnesota, but not all that remote from Brandon's location where he owns an outdoor adventure outfit.
Levi has a ton of issues, but when Brandon stumbles upon him, he seems to throw caution to the wind despite his past experiences. Brandon doesn't think he has any issues, yet he fails to catch on that his previously promiscuous ways, and several ex-boyfriends, give Levi great pause when it comes time to carry their affair further.
I liked them both, and the wonderful plot twists that come as a result of something that happens to Grandma kept me up past my bedtime. But I finished this one in a short time and am eager to see how Mr. Holland expands the scope of these little towns and its residents as he goes on.
August 20, 2018
Thrilling, happy, sad, angsty story with just a few HOT moments…
Brandon at 24yo has already accomplished quite a lot, but not in the relationship department. He has his own home, his own successful business and lots of friends. With a recent change he has decided that he needs to scout out new routes for his guided-canoe-tours business to keep his revenue up, which leads him to a “forbidden” area, Lone Cedar Lake. There was a death there which has scared off many people. Instead Brandon finds Levi, not a ghost but may as well be in his hermit environment, living with his Grandma Daley, off the land and off the grid. Sparks fly between these two but Levi is very reticent b/c he still remembers the way he used to be: puny, bespectacled and gay, in other words, the proverbial “ugly duckling.” Brandon only sees a buff, handsome man, to whom he wants to get close, wink. Wow, this is a really good beginning to Mr. Holland’s new series. He has introduced us to several new characters and I want their stories now! I volunteered to review an ARC of this book.
Brandon at 24yo has already accomplished quite a lot, but not in the relationship department. He has his own home, his own successful business and lots of friends. With a recent change he has decided that he needs to scout out new routes for his guided-canoe-tours business to keep his revenue up, which leads him to a “forbidden” area, Lone Cedar Lake. There was a death there which has scared off many people. Instead Brandon finds Levi, not a ghost but may as well be in his hermit environment, living with his Grandma Daley, off the land and off the grid. Sparks fly between these two but Levi is very reticent b/c he still remembers the way he used to be: puny, bespectacled and gay, in other words, the proverbial “ugly duckling.” Brandon only sees a buff, handsome man, to whom he wants to get close, wink. Wow, this is a really good beginning to Mr. Holland’s new series. He has introduced us to several new characters and I want their stories now! I volunteered to review an ARC of this book.
August 23, 2018
This was an interesting book for me as I loved the premise but I had a hard time finishing it. There was a lot of unrealized potential in this story but the only thing I loved about it were the secondary characters. Levi's grandma is awesome, she has an amazing past and gives Levi a home and a purpose as well as the benefit of her hard-earned wisdom. I like the descriptions of her paintings and how well the author portrayed the area they lived in. It was easy for me to picture the lakes and the surrounding scenery. I didn't really like either of the MC's or how they dealt with the situations they were faced with. I wanted Levi and Brandon to have more of a connection but it all felt a little forced and their relationship didn't make sense to me. I also disliked how poorly they communicated with each other and how immature Levi was. Some of it felt rushed and the rest was really slow so I wasn't able to settle into the story. I usually like this author but this book just isn't for me.
August 27, 2018
The Heart of the Woods is a cute little story by Grant C Holland.
I really enjoyed the character of Levi, who is sweet despite all the bullying he's had to endure. He has been living in the woods, off the radar helping his grandmother. Brandon's also a good guy, totally one with nature, even working in the woods.
When they first meet, Levi is terrified of Brandon finding his grandmother and disrupting her quiet life. It doesn't take long, however, for him to think Brandon is trustworthy, inviting him back to his place.
The outdoors were also a wonderful character in itself, described well, transporting you to the remote land.
Their story contains some mystery, some commitment issues, and some angst. In the end, their issues are nicely resolved, leaving both the characters and the readers happy.
The story didn't overwhelm me, but it was a pleasant, quick read.
I really enjoyed the character of Levi, who is sweet despite all the bullying he's had to endure. He has been living in the woods, off the radar helping his grandmother. Brandon's also a good guy, totally one with nature, even working in the woods.
When they first meet, Levi is terrified of Brandon finding his grandmother and disrupting her quiet life. It doesn't take long, however, for him to think Brandon is trustworthy, inviting him back to his place.
The outdoors were also a wonderful character in itself, described well, transporting you to the remote land.
Their story contains some mystery, some commitment issues, and some angst. In the end, their issues are nicely resolved, leaving both the characters and the readers happy.
The story didn't overwhelm me, but it was a pleasant, quick read.
August 14, 2018
I always love how hopeful and sweet Grant Holland’s book leave me. This book was sweet and poignant as Levi and Brandon come to form their bond. I loved that Brandon had to work through his commitment issues that he seemed to not even be fully aware of at the beginning of the book. I loved that Levi had to work through all of the insecurities that he had been avoiding up until that point.
One thing that I wish were done differently, was that I didn’t feel that we got as much insight into Levi and we did Brandon. While Levi’s insecurities were definitely believable, I often got the impression that they were only brought up to introduce conflict and that they seemed to resolve themselves a little too neatly.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
One thing that I wish were done differently, was that I didn’t feel that we got as much insight into Levi and we did Brandon. While Levi’s insecurities were definitely believable, I often got the impression that they were only brought up to introduce conflict and that they seemed to resolve themselves a little too neatly.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 17, 2018
Levi lives deep in the woods with his grandmother, artist Isabel Daly. Since the death of his grandfather nobody has visited Lone Cedar Lake fearing the lake is haunted until now when Levi spots a canoe!
Levi has never felt comfortable in his skin after being bullied at school he finally feels safe with his grandmother. Their bond is so special with him caring for her daily, even with him washing her!
Brandon goes to Lone Cedar Lake to scope it out for potential business ventures. Thinking the lake was abandoned he's surprised to see another canoe with a sexy handsome passenger.
Brandon and Levi soon become boyfriends and are so cute together with their chemistry getting very hot!
I have to mention Gabe. I think he is funny and can't wait for his story.
Levi has never felt comfortable in his skin after being bullied at school he finally feels safe with his grandmother. Their bond is so special with him caring for her daily, even with him washing her!
Brandon goes to Lone Cedar Lake to scope it out for potential business ventures. Thinking the lake was abandoned he's surprised to see another canoe with a sexy handsome passenger.
Brandon and Levi soon become boyfriends and are so cute together with their chemistry getting very hot!
I have to mention Gabe. I think he is funny and can't wait for his story.
August 26, 2018
This is the first book in a new series. Levi lives a pretty reclusive life with the grandmother that he adores and takes care of. They live in a deserted wood that can only be accessed by water and there are some sinister legends surrounding the area which has kept people away, just the way Levi and his grandma want it. Brandon, however, is unconcerned about the stories and stumbles upon Levi while he is exploring the area as a possible new route for his canoe tour business.
Levi is mistrustful of people and is none to happy to see Brandon initially. However, he soon thaws and the pair begin a relationship. Their relationship is tested when Levi's grandmother takes ill.
This is a sweet book and the two characters are very endearing.
Levi is mistrustful of people and is none to happy to see Brandon initially. However, he soon thaws and the pair begin a relationship. Their relationship is tested when Levi's grandmother takes ill.
This is a sweet book and the two characters are very endearing.
August 17, 2018
Sweet and engaging story about finding love when and where you least expect. The writing flowed well and the MC's and supporting characters are so well developed that you feel that you know them.
I enjoyed the gentle beauty of this story and fell a bit in love with the north-woods. Brandon and Levi have an intense connection that develops over time due to distance. I liked how they connected and learned about each other. They shared the beauty of the stars, woods and lakes with us the reader and made our lives richer for the experience.
i will be looking forward to the next in this series!
I enjoyed the gentle beauty of this story and fell a bit in love with the north-woods. Brandon and Levi have an intense connection that develops over time due to distance. I liked how they connected and learned about each other. They shared the beauty of the stars, woods and lakes with us the reader and made our lives richer for the experience.
i will be looking forward to the next in this series!
August 20, 2018
A really good story of two men. One out and one out but in hiding at the moment. Brandon needs for venues for his outdoor business and meets up with Levi. Levi hides in the woods caring for his grandmother while she makes her art. Getting old and frail, Grandma encourages Levi to make friends with Brandon. Through heartbreak, angst, a ghostly grandfather and working together to make Brandon's business and their lives intermingle with love and finally mutual emotional growth makes for an excellent story. Strong MCs and secondary characters lend strength to the story. Well worth a read. I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC book.
August 21, 2018
Another gentle soothing loving story from Grant C. Holland. Brandon is an adventure loving man that just happens to own his own business and home at the tender age of 24, he is looking to expand his trails. Levi dropped out of college to stay with his aging grandmother in an off the grid cabin that was built by his grandfather many years ago. The two have a fairly rough start as Levi is very suspicious of anyone that comes poking around his territory but soon the two stop dancing around reach other and start taking notice. Then love happens then his grandmother fall ill and Levi is kind of lost for a while but love wins out in the end! Another great book and well worth the read!
August 26, 2018
I really wanted to like this more than I ended up liking it. I liked the story. I think the premise is really good. The characters, overall, aren't bad. I do like Levi and Brandon. I think the grandmother is pretty awesome too.
However, the story is written with 2 POVs, and the biggest issue with that is that I sometimes had to go back and check to see which character was talking because the voices sounded a lot alike so it could be hard to tell who was who at times, which is disconcerting.
Like I said, I did like the book. I wanted to like it more than I do. I would probably read it again at some point.
However, the story is written with 2 POVs, and the biggest issue with that is that I sometimes had to go back and check to see which character was talking because the voices sounded a lot alike so it could be hard to tell who was who at times, which is disconcerting.
Like I said, I did like the book. I wanted to like it more than I do. I would probably read it again at some point.
August 13, 2021
These guys are absolute sweethearts. Both of them are entirely lovable, and once they start spending time together, I love the way are with each other. Brandon is a bit high-strung, and Levi has his share of insecurities, but they fit together like pieces of a puzzle. There is some angst, and both of these men have some things to work through. The story gets pretty emotional both within the romance and surrounding it, so this one certainly tugs at the heartstrings. It's not all angsty though - for the most part, the romance keeps you smiling. There are also some terrific secondary characters that I hope to see more of as the series progresses.
August 26, 2018
This is the first book in The Northwoods Series. A wonderful book the writing was good. The plot was entertaining and it was steady throughout the book. I found the story and characters likeable. The characters were developed and thought out. Brandon and Levi are the MC’s of this book. There was humor, a cabin, lakes, canoes, painting, friends and family, stars and more in this book. I can recommend this book as a good read. I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book for an honest review.
December 19, 2018
Levi lives off the grid in a hidden cabin with his artist grandmother. Brandon owns a wilderness adventure tour. When they meet, it isn't the most friendly interaction, but that quickly changes as their mutual attraction takes over.
The story is sweet and sexy and the characters are likeable. I received an advanced reader's copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
The story is sweet and sexy and the characters are likeable. I received an advanced reader's copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
August 18, 2018
I enjoyed very much this first book in a new series by Grant C Holland.
The setting is fantastic, the woods, lakes and small town in Northern Minnesota.
Both MCs are well structured and even the side characters are good.
The story is very interesting, even if I found that it didn't exactly "flow", from time to time, like there was a fast forward, or something.
All in all I enjoyed reading it very much, and I hope we get more Northern Woods soon.
The setting is fantastic, the woods, lakes and small town in Northern Minnesota.
Both MCs are well structured and even the side characters are good.
The story is very interesting, even if I found that it didn't exactly "flow", from time to time, like there was a fast forward, or something.
All in all I enjoyed reading it very much, and I hope we get more Northern Woods soon.
August 26, 2018
Brandon owns a wilderness guide company. He heads out looking for new trails in the hope of expanding & growing his business after a recent slump.
He runs in to Levi whilst exploring.
Levi has been living in the wilderness with his grandmother for the last 3 years. He's lonely and his grandmother's health is failing.
I liked how they got to know each other. Levi not seeing himself the way Brandon does..
A heartwarming story overall.
He runs in to Levi whilst exploring.
Levi has been living in the wilderness with his grandmother for the last 3 years. He's lonely and his grandmother's health is failing.
I liked how they got to know each other. Levi not seeing himself the way Brandon does..
A heartwarming story overall.
August 15, 2018
Heartwarming, well written and totally compelling. As always a must read for fans of small town stories or rural settings. The characters are well defined, interesting and beleivable. The backstory is charming and makes you want to know all these people better.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2018
This is a story about strong family ties, about unexpected changes in life and how to face them in a constructive way finding yourself in the process. An introvert and an extrovert fall for each other thanks to their love for canoeing and life in the wild. Heat level medium, sweetness pretty high! The untouched nature, the quiet of the woods and the lake are characters of their own in this story.
May 12, 2019
It say on my currently reading shelf a long while and not because it wasn't good. I just had others that were time sensitive and I kept putting it off. I really like the story. Levi was living his best life after moving to the woods with his grandmother and Brandon was learning how to live his. With a lot of letting go they did a fine job of helping each other and falling in love.
April 2, 2021
I give this three and a half, almost 4 stars. A new to me author; I pretty much picked the book because I liked the cover but I found the story to be really engaging and really worth while. My only reason for not rating higher is that I think Levi was a bit immature with regards to Brandon and the cottage, but it wasn’t a deal breaker. A worth while story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2018
3.5 stars. Nice light read. Brandon and Levi meet and click. Levi is super sweet with his grandmother. I liked that Brandon makes the effort to pursue Levi when there's a rift between them, he doesn't wait for Levi to come back around.
Adult read
Adult read
November 12, 2020
Most endearing
What a fabulous story. It's sweet and touching. Well written and tightly scripted. The characters are lovingly developed. They are memorable. This will squeeze your heart with warmth and hope and joy.
What a fabulous story. It's sweet and touching. Well written and tightly scripted. The characters are lovingly developed. They are memorable. This will squeeze your heart with warmth and hope and joy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews