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Heartbreaker Bay #8

Wrapped Up in You

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It’s love. Trust me.

After a lifetime on the move, Ivy Snow is an expert in all things temporary—schools, friends, and way too many Mr. Wrongs. Now that she owns a successful taco truck in San Francisco and an apartment to call home, Ivy’s reinvented life is on solid ground. And she’s guarded against anything that can rock it. Like the realities of a past she’s worked hard to cover up. And especially Kel O’Donnell. Too hot not to set off alarms, he screams temporary. If only his whispers weren’t so delightfully naughty and irresistible.

Kel, an Idaho sheriff and ranch owner, is on vacay, but Ivy’s a spicy reason to give his short-terms plans a second thought. Best of all, she’s a tonic for his untrusting heart, burned once and still in repair. But when Ivy’s past intrudes on a perfect romance, Kel fears that everything she’s told him has been a perfect lie. Now, if only Ivy’s willing to share, Kel will fight for a true love story.

Audible Audio

First published September 24, 2019

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About the author

Jill Shalvis

386 books13.8k followers
Jill Shalvis is a NYT, USA Today, and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author of small-town romance and romcoms, known for big feels, found family, and plenty of shenanigans.

If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.

She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.

When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.

You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 719 reviews
Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].
3,029 reviews25.3k followers
April 9, 2025
RATING 4.5 STARS

Wrapped Up In You is book eight in the Heartbreaker Bay series by Jill Shalvis. I read this series years ago but never did read this last book and have always regretted it. So I finally jumped back in and am so glad I did. It was sweet with plenty of humor and even a little suspense sprinkled in which surprised me.

“Be smart. Be brave. Be vulnerable.”

Ivy Snow is twenty eight years old. She has lived a transient life, both as a child with her brother and mother. Then as an adult, never feeling settled in any particular place. Until she’d had enough. She wanted roots, friends, a real home. So she went to San Francisco. She bought a taco truck, rented a cheap apartment, and started a life she never thought she’d have.

Kel O’Donnell is both a cop and a rancher in Idaho. But when things went sideways at his job, he took two weeks off and went to visit his closest friend, Caleb, to help him with setting up security in his new fancy condo complex. Only he hadn’t planned on meeting Ivy. And the instant connection he felt to her. Kel also has a past he tries to keep buried. A past that has robbed him of trust.

The chemistry between Kel and Ivy is unmistakable. But both of these two have their walls up and welded into place. As much as they try to resist, though, those walls are chipped down every time they are together. But, pasts have a sneaky way of coming back to haunt you as did theirs. The question is, will they stand and fight it or will they do as they always do and retreat?



I really did enjoy this. It can be read as a stand alone. It’s been awhile since I read the previous books so even though I did remember the beautiful courtyard at the center of these books, I don’t remember much about all the previous couples. I love the little added bit of suspense as well that kept me turning the pages. I have read a bunch of this author’s books and always enjoy them but it’s been a good long while since I last read one. I loved the whole series and hope you’ll check them out!

For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...

Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,299 reviews1,779 followers
September 25, 2019

Mentally sifting through a long list of fantasies, Ivy told her landlord all about Brandon the artist, who was living in Paris at the moment, becoming famous for his incredible oil landscapes. She left off the fact that he peddled stolen art instead of creating it, and it hadn’t been Paris, France, but Paris, Texas.

And trust me, women are tougher than us. They can handle our shit. And if you don’t think so, think about this—they take showers with the water temperature set to the exploding sun, by choice.

Her chest felt tight. Way too tight. “It’s hot in here,” she whispered. “Is it hot in here?” she asked all the people standing way too close. “Honey, that’s called a hot flash,” an elderly woman waiting in line said. “Are you going through the change?” “Edna, she’s like twelve,” the woman next to the first one said. “She’s not going through the change. And how much longer before you refill the mashed potatoes? I can’t stand on my feet too long, I get the veins.”


My Review:

I don’t think I will ever tire of Jill Shalvis’s clever wit or her entertaining and amusing tales. To use one of her own words, she is divinely, “Crackalicious.” One of the main characters of this book was Ivy Snow, and although ivy doesn’t typically have thorns, this Ivy was a prickly one who was always on guard, and for good reason. I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy her but Ivy’s backstory was a heart squeezer and my appreciation of her rose steadily as her layers were slowly peeled back. I grew to adore this couple as much as the other Heartbreakers that I’ve read.
Profile Image for Carole (Carole's Random Life).
1,937 reviews607 followers
September 25, 2019
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.

This was another great read from Jill Shalvis. I have been with the Heartbreaker Bay series since it started and have looked forward to each installment. Each book in the series can be read as a stand-alone but readers of the series will enjoy catching up with well-loved characters. This series has been consistently good so I went into it with rather high expectations and it was just as good as I hoped it would be.

This book is Ivy and Kel's story. Ivy is part of the friend group that is at the core of this series. She runs the taco truck and has finally started to put down some roots. She moved around a lot growing up and learned how to take care of herself. She is really hesitant to think about anything long term since her plans don't usually work out. Kel is Cal's cousin from Idaho. He works as a sheriff and runs the family ranch but is helping his cousin out while he takes a bit of a break. Kel also is bothered by things from his past which is having a big impact on his present.

I loved these two together. They had wonderful chemistry with each other and I felt like they had a lot in common. They both just seemed to be a little bit better when they were together. I loved the way that Kel watched out for Ivy and felt protective towards her. Ivy was able to help Kel make progress with the demons from his past. They were both hesitant to think long term but the pull towards each other was so great they couldn't stay away from each other.

I would highly recommend this book to fans of contemporary romance. This was a fantastic romance with fantastic characters and just the right amount of heat. While this is a Christmas story, the festive details were extremely minor so it would be a great book to pick up at any time of the year. I can't wait to read more in this wonderful series.

I received a digital review copy of this book from Tasty Book PR via Book Funnel.

Initial Thoughts
This was another solid read from Jill Shalvis. Kel and Ivy were great together and I thought that they had a lot in common with each other with their family issues. I was really happy to see an epilogue that showed us how things would work out for them. An all-around great read!
Profile Image for Nicola.
1,390 reviews287 followers
September 17, 2019
4.5 stars.

Jill Shalvis never fails to whisk me away to my happy place and that’s exactly where I went as she brings us Ivy, Pacific Pier’s taco-truck chef and cop-on-a-sabbatical, Kel‘s romance.

description Are you my present?”

Ivy and Kel quickly stole my heart and with just the right amount of drama mixed in amongst the romance, a couple of moments that almost had me reaching for the tissues and the most perfect epilogue, Wrapped Up in You is one of my favourite in the Heartbreaker Bay series.

description Look at you going all sweet on me.”

If an engaging, touching, flirty and sexy romance between a wonderful couple—flaws and all—is what you’re after, then don’t pass this one by. With so much potential still in the series, I’m already looking forward to my next trip to San Francisco and I can’t be the only one hoping Brandon might get his HEA in the future...

Copy received courtesy of Avon via Edelweiss for an honest and unbiased opinion.
description
Profile Image for Astrid - The Bookish Sweet Tooth.
796 reviews917 followers
September 24, 2019


TITLE: WRAPPED UP IN YOU
AUTHOR: Jill Shalvis
SERIES: Heartbreaker Bay #8
RELEASE DATE: September 24, 2019
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
THEMES & TROPES: Small town romance
RATING: 4 Stars
CLIFFHANGER: No

READ MY REVIEW ON THE BLOG







When you finish a difficult book it's always good to know where you get your fix of the warm and fuzzies. Jill Shalvis is that for me. She gives me this feeling of home, this sense of being wrapped up in a comforter drinking hot chocolate. In WRAPPED UP IN YOU we are going back to Heartbreaker Bay.

This time we get to hang out with Ivy, taco-truck wiz, and Kel, Caleb's cousin and a cop who's taking a (forced) vacation from his job. Ivy is a tough nut to crack - she has serious trust issues and doesn't like cops (which was never fully explained I think - but I may have missed that?).
Be smart.
Be vulnerable.
Be brave.

Kel is no stranger to trust issues, his walls are miles high and he hates lies. I kind of expected this to become a big issue along the way because Ivy wasn't always honest with Kel but I'm glad Jill didn't go that route. They talked about it and it was done.

Jill Shalvis's male protagonists are always the best. They are good, endearing, funny, sweet and charming - and thus is Kel. Prickly Ivy wasn't easy to love from the beginning but the whole thing turned around at one point in the story and I loved Ivy an gave Kel the side-eye. I felt compassion and admiration for her - her life was a lonely one, she'd never had a real friend. Yearning for one but still keeping herself apart. I was so glad that it was Sadie, who could tell her a thing or three about not letting people in, who always had her back.
“You don’t get it,” Ivy said. “Until this place, I’ve never lived anywhere for more than a few rent cycles at best. Making friends and keeping them . . . it’s not my strong suit.”
“That’s okay,” Sadie said. “It’s our strong suit. We got you.”

However, two people with trust issues trying to make a go of things? That's like trying to get the same poles of two magnets to touch. It's impossible. Or almost. And of course one of them messes up along the way but there is some pretty good grovel that makes everything good in Ivy and Kel's world. And that epilogue. Gah. Perfection.
I promise to always have your back, and stand at your side, and I also promise to be worthy of your trust and heart. I love you, Ivy.”

WRAPPED UP IN YOU is a lovely addition to this series and I can't wait to see what Shalvis has in store next when we go back to Heartbreaker Bay. I'd love to see a story about Ivy's troubled brother - I'm sure the redeemed bad boy has one hell of a story to tell.

Profile Image for Stacey.
1,446 reviews1,127 followers
September 17, 2019
The good kind of trouble…

How embarrassing is it when you walk up to a stranger and ask them *Do I know you* and they look back at you with a blank and slightly horrified look, before scurrying away. Well, I’ve done that to myself numerous times. What makes it even worse is I later work out that he’s the guy who gets on the same train carriage as me, or I walked past him while doing the grocery shopping. Well, meeting Kel felt a little like that. I know that I know him, but for the life of me, I can’t remember the details of our meeting. At least, this time I know I’ve legitimately met him, because, Jill told me so. 😉

Wrapped Up in You was a little treat to me. Actually, it was a little treat from Jill Shalvis but I’d kept it sitting on my Kindle for a rainy day, knowing that one day I may need a pick-me-up. Well, that day has come…and gone…and Wrapped Up in You did the trick. There’s something about Ms Shalvis’ writing that always hits the spot for me. It’s that wonderful mix of humour, romance and sexy times that always leaves me completely satisfied.

As I mentioned above, I had previously met Kel when he popped up in the Animal Magnetism series. Of course, I loved him then… Well, I think I loved him??? I must have because I can’t remember ever disliking a Jill Shalvis hero/character/good guy. Well, he must have been a good guy or this would have been a redeeming story, wouldn't it??? He was all muscley, hot and good guy goodness so I’m guessing this leopard didn’t change his spots???

Oh My Lordy…I am making such a mess of this review…SORRY!!!

Anyways…I really liked Wrapped Up in You and found the characters to be lovable, sweet, funny and sexy. They’re also flawed which makes them very real. We don’t just get the hearts fluttering; you rock my world in this story. You get the *YOU BLOODY NUMBSKULL!!!* feelings too.

Ivy was a tough character with a determination that I really admired. With nothing but hard work and a fierce commitment to making something of herself, she is determined to succeed. Ivy's had to put up barriers to protect herself. Between unreliable family, and "friends" from her past, it was easier to keep to herself. New friendships that she's formed are starting to feel like a family and are testing those impenetrable barriers she put up. When her brother comes back into her life and messes with her happiness, it's Kel and her friends that have her back.

While I loved this story, I did find the love a little bit quick. It was weird though because two weeks felt like months with these two. When the declarations happened, I was sighing and getting choked up with emotions... and then a little squinty-eyed when I realised the timeframe. I get instant attractions and connections, but I find the big gestures like moving cities for the love of your life… AFTER TWO WEEKS… not so much.

I really love the Heartbreaker Bay series and Jill Shalvis can do no wrong when it comes to writing entertaining contemporary romance. This is a story about two people finding love when they were least expecting it. Both Ivy and Kel have dealt with some pretty heavy stuff in their pasts, but while they are wary of risking their hearts, neither can deny the feelings developing. Trust is the big hurdle for these two and while it takes a few run-ups to conquer, they do get there in the end. I guess they just had to trust and believe in love before their wish on the love fountain would work.

If you’re looking for a good series to sink into and you haven’t tried a Jill Shalvis yet…DO IT!! You won’t regret it.

Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
Profile Image for Lacey (laceybooklovers).
2,144 reviews12k followers
November 14, 2021
Even though I’ve only read a few books in the Heartbreaker Bay series, I’ve adored them all, so I had no doubt this latest one would also be another hit from Jill Shalvis! It’s about the holidays, tacos, and San Francisco – how could I not enjoy all that together?

Ivy Snow has reinvented herself from the struggling childhood she had growing up to a taco truck owner who’s hugely successful in San Francisco. She’s her own boss, is about to put a down payment on a brand new spanking apartment, and has a group of amazing friends, though she still keeps a bit of distance from them. Then enters a friend of a friend, Kel O’Donnell, a sheriff and ranch owner temporarily in the Bay Area for “vacation,” who turns her world upside down.

I adored Kel so, SO much. He was a sweetheart of a hero, so patient, swoony, and understanding with Ivy’s hangups. He has his own issues when it comes to love and relationships, after catching his mother cheating on his father, but there’s something about Ivy that compels him. He knows his time in SF is temporary, but maybe this is the right push for him to move back to the place that’s always felt like home to him.

Wrapped Up in You is heartfelt, emotional, and just a feel-good romance I couldn’t help but enjoy. I loved the main characters and I loved being back with the Heartbreaker Bay group of friends. One of my favorite parts of this book is watching Ivy open her heart up to her group of girl friends, all of whom are so supportive and amazing with Ivy. Even though I haven’t read every single book in this series, I didn’t feel lost at all, and now I want to go back and catch myself up because I adore all of these characters!
Profile Image for MELISSA *Mel Reader*.
1,396 reviews1,506 followers
September 24, 2019
4 Stars!
(ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR)

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Ivy Snow is a feisty, resilient,stubborn, independent woman who is known for having the most delicious tacos in the Bay Area. Tired of moving around, she wanted to make changes. To have her own place, friends, and a sense of permanence. She moves to San Francisco and buys a food truck, and is working to make her dreams a reality. She'd been in the city for a year, and has come so far. After a lifetime of running and feeling invisible, she was trying to put down roots. She's guarded, private, and used to hiding behind her walls to protect herself from her past. She was the queen of temporary and being a chameleon, but she wanted to keep this new life she'd created. She's always so careful and controlled, and then she meets a man named Kel O'Donnell who breaks her out of her shell.

Kel O'Donnell is a sheriff and ranch owner in Idaho who is in San Francisco taking a little time off. While he's back in his hometown for a couple weeks he's going to work for his cousin Caleb managing security on several large projects. His vacation becomes interesting when he meets the fearless Ivy Snow with her authority issues and fabulous tacos. She's the most infuriating and fascinating woman he's ever met, not to mention devastatingly beautiful. They have instant chemistry, but both have trust issues that get in the way. With Kel leaving town soon, Ivy had to keep reminding herself he wasn't for her, but the heart wants what the heart wants. When the past comes knocking at their door, will they fight for love?

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-"You're the most unique woman I've ever known."

-"You're amazing, Ivy."

-He smiled and she felt a kick in the gut-a fact that told her two things. One, she was still stupid when it came to men. And two, he was going to be trouble for both her peace of mind and her heart. Big trouble.

 photo 29B4DD50-375B-4173-BB68-0829AD2FD3DF_zps7eel12zm.jpg

Wrapped Up In You by Jill Shalvis is book eight in the Heartbreaker Bay series. I really love this series with small town friendships and couples that are like family. This story was a steamy, romance full of laughs, emotion, drama, intense attraction, and even a bit of mystery. I really enjoyed this book, and adore this author's writing!

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***NOW AVAILABLE***
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Profile Image for Anna's Herding Cats.
1,274 reviews319 followers
September 16, 2019
Such a cute cover! Wrapped Up In You was an okay read. Did I love it? No. Did I like it? Yep. Seems to be the trend for me with Shalvis the last few which is a bit disappointing.

The Gist: Kel is in town for a few weeks helping his cousin with security while he's on administrative leave after an injury and the man realizes he has a thing for spicy tacos and the fiery woman who makes them. Troublesome for sure.

Alright. So the bad stuff out of the way first. I'm REALLY tired of all the man bashing. That's the main thing that stuck in my head after reading this one. I'm tired of heroines and their girlfriends constantly going on about men suck, men are assholes, men are scum, liars, etc. And tired of the man always being the one to grovel or apologize even when they're not totally at fault. He should 100% trust when she doesn't 100% trust. It's just boorish and I'm sick of it.

My other issue was Kel's mom. She cheated on his dad for a couple years before he died, then promptly abandoned her young kids when he died and shacked up and married the guy she cheated with. And everyone's like Kel you need to get over it and be nice to her. Fuck. That. You don't abandon your children especially after they've lost their father and then come back once they're grown and get an easy do-over. The reasons for both were lame in my opinion, too, and just meant to excuse bad behavior of yet another woman and put a man in the "shame on you" category. So...grrr!

Whew okay that's out of the way.

The good stuff.

I loved Kel! He's one of those guys that has a quiet intensity about him. He's been hurt in the past but he's a good man who does what's right and has a steady patience about him that's so dang sexy. He's not in a rush. He'll get where he wants to be he's just gonna wait for you to beg him to be there. He was definitely the highlight of the book.

Ivy was okay for the most part. She is a very hard worker and a determined soul. Pulling herself out from nothing and going after her dreams. That's all pretty awesome. And she's a cook which is fun. I had some frustrations with her on trust. She has issues because of her family especially her brother who's scummy. He's destroyed her trust. But then she keeps trusting him whenever he shows up. And then the people she SHOULD trust she hides things from them and lies to them. Which was an entirely moronic situation in my opinion.

The romance was okay, too. I liked them together as a whole. They balanced each other out nicely with his steady patience and her higher strung neurotic self. Had nice chemistry and heat. They both had some trust issues but it seemed like his were harped on more than hers though hers caused more issues.

Overall...an okay read. Which is disappointing from a Shalvis book. The last couple just have missed the mark for me. I wish she'd go back to the Lucky Harbor vibes really and stop with the man bashing. That's getting old. Especially when the men in question are pretty amazing and the women rocking just as many flaws (yet you never hear the heroes going on how women are the scum of the earth)
Profile Image for Claire.
2,324 reviews738 followers
September 18, 2019
4.5 - "I knew you were going to be trouble…" Stars!

We return to the Heartbreaker Bay series for another seasonal offering, with book eight; Wrapped Up in You giving us Kel O’Donnell and Ivy Snow’s story. Both relative newcomers in relation to the cast of characters that has grown through the series, although Kel some of you will know as a secondary character from Jill’s Animal Magnestism series as well.

"Sometimes in life you meet someone… And suddenly you don’t have to be alone all the time."

Where to I start! I love this author’s books so much, because there is just so much to love about them, the characters are always spot on, the story lines compelling, engrossing and always different from their predecessors. The emotional spectrum is always covered, and you are never bored. I think it is also the fact that as a whole, each series as it grows feels like you are returning to and spending more time with old friends, and this book is no exception.

She didn’t know how to take half the things he said… They made her feel both terrified and exhilarated at the same time.

Both Ivy and Kel are reluctant to build relationships, but for wholly different reasons, Kel believes his job makes it impossible to maintain any type of deep and meaningful relationship with a woman, having been let down by the most important woman in his life in the past he doesn’t really make any effort to try anymore, staying closed off and unreachable saves yourself from a whole lot of hurt in Kel’s opinion.

"You hold so much of yourself in. I want to be there for you…"

While Ivy literally has no clue, how a positive relationship works, the fact her trust in people in general and leaving herself open to exploitation in anyway are things she avoids as well make it virtually impossible to build anything meaningful with anyone, moving around regularly and ducking and diving in general to survive in the past haven’t helped either, but now Ivy is determined to put down some roots, make some friends and with The Taco Truck doing so well, she’s on her way to being settled. Kel’s appearance in town shakes all of the delicate foundations she has laid down.

"I don’t make promises I can’t keep…"

I think this is the first Shalvis book I have read where both lead characters a dealing with some pretty deep rooted issues around relationships and commitment in general, it made for quite an emotive read, because while the relationship between them has all of the traits I expect from this author (banter, sexy hot chemistry, & general likeability) you also get to work through with them as individuals the bigger long standing issues they are both trying to deal with and overcome.

Be smart.
Be vulnerable.
Be brave…


Another winner for the series and for Shalvis in general, and I cannot wait for more!

ARC generously provided by the author, in exchange for the above honest review.
Profile Image for Jen (jenslostinthepages) ♥Star-Crossed Book Blog♥.
772 reviews392 followers
September 24, 2019
Wrapped up in You was a feel good story that ended with the most perfect epilogue. It was so emotional that I had tears in my eyes and you couldn't knock the smile off my face! If you aren't familiar with the Heartbreaker Bay Series, each book can easily be read as a standalone. Each one is about a different friend finding their happily ever after, but I definitely recommend going back and reading the previous books in this series! I heart them so much! So if you adore love stories that are complex and heartfelt, a group of friends you want to be a part of and a hero that'll make you swoon hard, then pick this one up!
She’d been making up stories about her family since she’d been little, each different, each more exciting than the last, and all as far from the truth as she could possibly get. Because the truth wasn’t a story, it was a nightmare.

I loved Ivy Snow in the previous book Playing for Keeps, since she was Sadie's best friend. Ivy was sassy, tough and always helped others. And I loved that she took care of herself and ran the local taco truck. But while growing up, Ivy had a hard life. She was wounded and damaged from her past. Even her closest friend Sadie didn't truly know all there was about her. But from the moment Ivy met Kel, there were sparks between them and just his presence alone threatened to tear down her high walls.
“Okay, I’ll give this to you—you’re funny. And maybe also sexy as hell, but this isn’t happening, Cowboy.”
He’d take sexy as hell any day of the week. “We’re just talking.”
“Uh-huh,” she said dryly.

Kel O’Donnell was the cousin of Caleb, who was engaged to Ivy's best friend. He was a cowboy from Idaho, who was on a two week leave from being a sheriff. I quickly fell for Kel, it was so effortless. He was a good guy who was protective of his friends and jumped right into situations to help others. But there was so much mystery surrounding this man. From why he was taking a leave to what was going on with his family that lived in SF. While we slowly started to learn about his past, I just wanted to hug and protect him, and never let him go.
He hadn’t had much to smile about in a damn long time, but something about Ivy, hell, everything about Ivy made him feel . . . lighter.

Kel and Ivy felt like two peas in a pod. They were both damaged by their pasts and jaded from family. Plus they both had huge walls around their hearts. But any time they were together, sparks flew and their banter made me smile and laugh. It all felt so natural, but at the same time magical. And while Ivy tried to put up a fight, to not let him get to her, I loved that she started to waiver when mystery and suspense took hold of her life. But he was supposed to head back home to Idaho after two weeks in San Francisco. And while Ivy had never put roots down, this was the first time she truly had a home and friends.
He stroked the pad of his thumb over her lower lip, kissed it again and then did what he didn’t want to do, what he was starting to realize he would never want to do—leave her.

Wrapped up in You was a complex love story that will pull at your heart. Ivy and Kel both made mistakes with each other and they had a very bumpy path. And while this was an emotional story, there was the banter, tentative friendship and heat between Kel and Ivy that rounded out this story perfectly. Plus their friends added so much lightness too. So yes, I absolutely adored this book and I can't wait to read the next one in the Heartbreaker Bay Series!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

For more of my reviews, please visit:
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Profile Image for Mary Jackson _TheMaryReader.
1,680 reviews205 followers
October 6, 2019
I have been reading the Heartbeaker Bay series and loving everyone. So excited that I got to read Wrapped up in you. I love Shalvis' humor and her romances are so real. It's not like you are reading fiction.
If you are ready for a great winter read, get your favorite throw and wrap up and getting to reading this 4 star fast read.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
Profile Image for WhiskeyintheJar.
1,521 reviews694 followers
December 14, 2019
2.5 stars

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Ivy has been on her own since she was sixteen but lately, she wants to put some roots down. She's slowly starting to warm up to her group of friends and the new guy Kel, is catching her eye.
Kel is on leave from his job as a sheriff after being betrayed by one of his cops. When his cousin introduces him to Ivy, he's instantly attracted to her and her spicy tacos.
Ivy and Kel have family drama and they're both scared to open up but they just can't stay away from each other.

She wanted him. Quite badly, if her racing pulse meant anything. He was so . . . what, exactly? Steady? Tough? Intense and yet somehow easygoing, not to mention also extremely easy on the eyes?

Eighth in the Heartbreaker series, Wrapped Up in You gives a little bit of a crossover with Kel from the Animal Magnetism series. I haven't read any other books in Heartbreaker and that might have hurt some of the emotional connections I was missing. Characters that were stars from previous books, acting as secondary characters here, were never overwhelming to me as a newcomer but I never fully felt the friendship between the women and Ivy or a emotional familial connection between Kel and his cousin. Kel and Ivy spend the majority of the time together and are the focus, which works for highlighting their relationship, but it hurt my feeling their connection to the world Shalvis has created.

Kel's background in Idaho and all the drama that went down there happened away from this book and his utter lack of desire to return to what was his home gave more of missing piece to his character for me rather than emphasizing his desire to stay in California for and with Ivy and his family. His family drama with his mother also felt tacked on as I struggled to get a sense of Kel, let alone his secondary family members and their relationship.

I connected with Ivy's character more, her family drama and relationship with brother provided some end of story angst. I would have liked more scenes with her and her friends to get more of a feel and emotional connection to why she suddenly wanted to put down roots in this city (as a new reader to the series, something that continuous readers might have a better feel for).

But he slowly pulled back and ran a thumb along her jawline. “I knew you were going to be trouble the very first moment I laid eyes on you.”
“Hello, I’ve been trying to tell you that very thing!”
Snatching her hand in his, he grinned at her, a very sexy, very naughty grin, as if maybe he thought she was the very best kind of trouble, and led her through the alley to his truck.


Ivy and Kel had an immediate attraction and they act on wanting each other pretty quickly; I think it was around 20% the question of if they're a “we” was being discussed. I personally enjoy more of a building up and thought their relationship lacked the certain fun and sexy vibe Shalvis can sometimes give her lead's relationship.

Overall, Shalvis stories are always readable but with Kel's seeing his mother cheat on his father and feelings of abandonment, Ivy's brother struggling with going straight and the slight danger element from this, and their two week romance that lead to a together forever I couldn't quite feel and believe in, this lacked the Shalvis joie de vivre that keeps me reading her books.
Profile Image for Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️.
820 reviews845 followers
September 24, 2019


This was a nice romance. The guy married to his job, the girl whose upbringing was hard, a group of really great friends, and some drama to round out the story. I liked the story, it was a sweet romance with flawed characters who find redemption and happiness with one another.

There is a sweet ease to this story. Ivy and Kel meet each other and there is sassy banter between them. Each are guarded but there is a comfort as well. Kel is a sheriff in Idaho who is back in San Fransisco for awhile. He has some family issues that need to be addressed. Ivy is a loner who is trying to put down roots with a taco truck business. She is trying to feel comfortable with friends but it’s hard to trust. Her past is no bed of roses and sometimes leaving is the only option. When these two meet through friends, breaking down each other’s walls proves to be what each other need. But sometimes the past has a way of resurrecting those walls and all that happiness you thought you found comes crumbling down.

I will say that I definitely enjoy the author’s writing. Her storytelling has a sweet enjoyment. Besides the HEA, there is also the friends and family component that pulls the story full circle. I will say I loved the epilogue!! While this is my first read of the series, I didn’t feel lost in the secondary characters. It did made me want to go and read more books in the series.

*advanced copy provided by Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Esra.
Author 50 books86 followers
January 10, 2022
Pasific Pier Binası'na son kez uğramış olmanın burukluğu var içimde...
5. kitap itibariyle çeviri serüvenine dahil olduğum serinin maalesef sonuna geldik. En azından görünen sonuna, kendi kitaplarına kavuşamayan bazı karakterler olduğu için devamının geleceğine dair umutlarım var. :))
Bir önceki kitaptan tanıdığımız, Taco Truck'ın sahibi Ivy ve yine Caleb'ın bir önceki kitapta bahsettiği kuzeni Kel'in hikayesi...
İçinde her şey vardı: Güven sorunları, yalanlar, ihanetler, aile dramaları, lezzetli yemekler, tatlı bebekler, ateşli geceler, yanlış anlaşılmalar, harika arkadaşlıklar, kick boks dersleri, mükemmel ötesi bir kovboy, çok sevimli bir aşçı... Ve tabi ki mutlu bir de son.
Herkese keyifli okumalar. :))
Profile Image for Christine.
847 reviews18 followers
September 24, 2019
Jill Shalvis is usually a comfort read for me: light, fluffy, sexy without too much angst or drama. Unfortunately, her usual formula of stubborn feisty heroine meets stalwart alpha hero is starting to run out of steam in Heartbreaker Bay.

First, its getting hard to remember who's who in the big crew of good-looking, bland white people. Of all the people in San Francisco, one of the most diverse cities ever, the Heartbreaker Bay gang only managed to find one token lesbian (and only gave her a barely seen girlfriend at that). Their buddy Jake is in a wheelchair but the gang blithely goes on midnight hikes without him so I guess he's not that important to them.

I knew I was losing interest in Ivy and Kel's story when the questions started coming. How did Ivy become such a talented taco chef without any training? How did she serve breakfast and lunch when Ivy was always in morning kickboxing classes? How did Ivy think she was going to buy a condo in San Francisco with only a $20K down payment (even with Caleb matching)? How did she cater a swanky event for 100 people in less than one day (can tacos be elegant)? How was Kel a sheriff when he claimed he used to ride in a car with his partner? Also how can Kel carry a weapon around San Francisco when he's only going to be there two weeks? How did Jill Shalvis write this without research?

Also, how many times could random characters pop up? Not only does Kel run into his estranged mom working in a San Francisco diner, he somehow runs into his ex-girlfriend from Idaho who cheerfully hugs him and tells Ivy hey, he's a great guy, good luck with him! as she runs off without explaining how she happened to be in San Francisco. I used to live in San Francisco and the city just isn't that small.

To be fair, Kel was a lovely, swoony stand up guy. But the poor guy picked a stubborn, prickly, rude wanna be tough girl to fall for. Ivy didn't respect Kel's conflicted feelings about his mom but expected him to respect her own conflicted feelings about her criminal brother. And as soon as Kel started to question her like a cop AND concerned boyfriend, Ivy threw him over.

According to Kel, his problem with women was him, not them. Same - I'm not certain if it's me, not them:if Jill Shalvis's formulaic but entertaining romances are starting to wear on me or if I need to leave Heartbreaker Bay to return to her tried and true Lucky Harbor and Animal Magnetism series.

2.5 stars

Note: I voluntarily read and reviewed an eARC generously provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
Profile Image for Irene.
1,908 reviews129 followers
September 24, 2019
4.5 stars

Wrapped Up in You by Jill Shalvis is a beautiful and heartfelt read and I loved it.

The storyline is well written, emotional, sweet, romantic and will pull at your heart strings.
Ivy and Kel are likable, relatable characters that I easily connected with. I loved their passion, I loved their honesty and I loved them together.
It warmed my heart watching Kel slowly break through Ivy's walls and bring the softer side of her out. Ivy had been through so much growing up, she didn't trust easily and it was totally understandable.
Watching them fall in love brought out all the feels and by the end I couldn't wipe the smile off my face. These two were perfect for each other.

description

Wrapped Up in You is a wonderful addition to the Heartbreaker Bay series, each book can be read as a standalone and I highly recommend them all!

Get You Copy here ~

KINDLE US: https://amzn.to/2DI0A0o
APPLE: https://apple.co/2G9IVjL
NOOK: http://bit.ly/2TjO4JZ
KOBO: http://bit.ly/2RoKigG
GPLAY: http://bit.ly/2LzsGxn
PAPERBACK: https://amzn.to/2CCf8y4
AUDIBLE: http://bit.ly/WUIYaudible

*An ARC was provided in exchange for my honest thoughts*

Profile Image for The Romance Book Disciple (Samantha).
2,116 reviews361 followers
September 23, 2019

Wrapped Up in You by Jill Shalvis brings readers back to Heartbreaker Bay and I am here for it!! This time, its Kel (Caleb's cousin) and Ivy (the Taco Truck owner). These two are quite opposites-Kel is a cop and Ivy is a free bird of sorts. Ivy has trust issues with law enforcement so she is wary of Kel right away.

Ivy has been raised in a rolling stone environment-never staying in one place. Now, she is putting down roots in San Francisco with her truck and, hopefully, a new condo. She has kept her family secrets from her new friends though and they don't know about her con artist brother. Kel is also dealing with his dysfunctional family drama too. Both Kel and Ivy are keeping secrets from the people in their lives, but Ivy's brother is potential dangerous.

The back and forth between Ivy and Kel is light on the outside, but both are playing things close to the vest. Neither has had success in love in the past and neither seem willing to fully trust anyone. So they banter around their feelings and avoid heavy conversations for a while. But, it turns out, the best person to share your struggles with is someone who has similar struggles!

I think September might be a little early for holiday books, but it plays a background role so its not a "holiday book". Wrapped Up in You is surprisingly emotional despite its fun and light looking cover, but I think that is true of all the Heartbreaker Bay novels! I enjoyed Ivy and Kel because they are both disheartened and manage to power through and find a happy life.

 

  POV: 3rd
  Tears: no
  Trope: dysfunctional families
  Triggers: none
  Series/Standalone: stand alone
  Cliffhanger:
  HEA:




Bayside Romance by Melissa Foster, All It Takes by Kristen Proby, Unbroken by Jay Crownover ...then you will probably like Wrapped Up in You!

 


Wrapped Up in You
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wrapped up in youSee full review on The Book Disciple
Profile Image for Stacee.
3,031 reviews758 followers
September 12, 2019
I have loved every book in this series, so I don’t even read the synopsis any longer. I’m here for all of them.

I loved Ivy and Kel. They’re both such good people with trust issues. I truly enjoyed reading them get to know each other, tear down the walls, and become part of a friend family. And of course the chemistry and UST was positively off the charts.

Plot wise, it was good. The build up was slow and delicious and the angsty time didn’t last too long. I appreciated that they took time to get to know each other before they fell into bed and relished the idea that while neither of them were good at being open, they tried.

Overall, it was another great addition to the series and I know I’ll be reading this one again.

**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
Profile Image for Melike.
488 reviews
October 16, 2020
I was looking for a warm and fuzzy holiday romance and sadly this book didn’t have enough of that. Ivy’s super sketchy brother also ruined it for me.
Profile Image for ✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ .
2,332 reviews1,341 followers
September 10, 2019
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We're back in Jill Shalvis' San Francisco world.
That beautiful house with all those businesses and the 'magical' fountain in the courtyard.

And for a year now, there's also been Ivy's taco truck.

Ivy loves running her little movable restaurant. She never stayed anywhere for long. Never had any friends. Never trusted anyone.

But now there are people who care. And there's also Kel - the hot visiting cousin of a friend. A cop/rancher from Idaho.

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And he keeps showing up whenever she needs him. Constantly flirting and looking too deep into her soul. There are things she doesn't want him to see ....

Kel had to leave Idaho for a while - after a job went wrong and he got hurt pretty badly.

Things in San Francisco look pretty interesting so far ... ☺

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Ugh! I just love Jill Shalvis stories. This series is sooo adorable!

Such a beautiful city. This amazing building with all its unique residents.

Just perfect.

This was another sweet and sexy and heartbreaking love story.

Ivy didn't have the best life growing up and her brother is not always on the right side of the law....

And Kel - getting hurt on the job sucked. But having your heart broken is even worse - that's why he's not really interested in ever giving it away ... But Ivy is making it really hard!

Adorable those two.

I loved their story. Sweet, funny, adorable, exciting, mysterious, moving.

Great romance! I hope this series never ends!!!!

And I really need a taco now!

description

WRAPPED UP IN YOU was another adorable and sweet and sexy and moving romance! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Kel - this one is MINE!

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Smokin Hot Book Blog Email
Profile Image for ☕️Kimberly  (Caffeinated Reviewer).
3,587 reviews784 followers
September 25, 2019
Aside from some mentions of holly, Christmas Eve and food banks this didn’t really feel like a holiday romance, but I loved it all the same. It’s the story of two souls leary of trusting their hearts or setting down roots.

Both Ivy and Kel have baggage stemming from childhood trust issues. When the story opens Ivy is finally setting down roots and is in a much better place. It’s her setbacks during the story that allow Kel to face his own. I love how it unfolded blending suspense, trust, family, and romance.

The romance was a combination of combustible attraction, awkward banter, humor and whispered confessions. It felt genuine and something about them together clicked. Shalvis did a great job of sharing their backstories and bringing those issues into the present story. Shalvis wraps things up with an epilogue that left me grinning and wiping a tear. Yeah, I am a sap. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
September 26, 2019
4.5 stars

For me, the last three books in this series had me thinking it was time for it to ride off into the sunset. I’ve been reading Jill Shalvis for a lot of years and I have loved a lot of her work, but I was disappointed in the last three books in this series and I almost gave up. I decided that Wrapped Up in You would be the book that either told me it was time to let it go or the one that gave me a sign to stick it out and I’m happy to say it was the latter. I loved this story of two people both with a wall around their hearts, a chip on their shoulder, and thinking that being an island of one was the best way to move through life finding each other and something they never expected a connection and love.

The contrast between these two characters was huge; Ivy spent most of her life skirting the law and doing whatever she had to do to survive while Kel has always been a do the right thing, take care of everyone and everything, black and white no shades of gray type person. It was interesting watching their early interactions because they both did not trust easily and realizing you are attracted to someone you don’t trust makes things difficult. I enjoyed watching Kel and the people Ivy considered friends break down her barriers and see her realize it was okay to lean on others at least a little bit. There were imperfect characters both of whom had difficult childhoods but in very different ways and it was fantastic watching them grow and change throughout this story.

This story had depth, real and meaningful depth something I appreciated a lot. Kel began to understand early on that Ivy was strong and resourceful and worked very hard for everything that she had and he admired her for that. While he was suspicious because he knew she had secrets and was holding back, he also realized that she did this to protect herself something he understood. Ivy’s distrust of Kel came from the fact he was a lawman and in her world they couldn’t be trusted, but as he helped her through some tough things even when she didn’t want him to and when he paid attention to the things that matter to her she saw that he was a good man with a heart of gold. Watching them realize how unique and special each other was left me very satisfied.

A story of overcoming your past to allow yourself a future you deserve complete with friendship, happiness, and love made Wrapped Up In You a delightful holiday romance sure to please readers this holiday season.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Aly.
2,920 reviews86 followers
September 22, 2019
Ivy, owner of the Taco Truck, didn't have a stable upbringing and left home at sixteen. She lived a wanderlust lifestyle but moving around no longer interest her and she's ready to put down some roots. But she's not used to trusting people, having friends and always did everything to not be vulnerable.

Two weeks before Christmas, Kel, sheriff in Idaho and ranch owner, is on leave, recovering from a life-threatening injury. But he's not taking a break and helping his cousin Caleb in San Francisco with protection details instead.

It's lust at first sight for Ivy and Kel but both hope that the attraction they feel is only physical. Kel also have family trouble and trust issues. He thinks telling her he's not a good bet because of his work will stop the chemistry that's between them. But he can't resit flirting and when you mix his easy charm, his protective instinct and his sexy intensity with her tough-girl attitude and sass that he find so alluring, the result is a fun ride.


If you follow me, you already know that I'm a fan of Jill Shalvis so you can guess how happy I was to receive my book earlier than expected! Lovable characters with a chemistry that always feels so natural and just as sweet and exciting too and a great cast of secondary characters is one of her trademarks. What I appreciated even more in this book is that a lot of things about the MC's family history resonated with me (but I still think some things were swept under the rug a little though) and it was interesting to see the different way Kel and Ivy feel and deal about family. I don't know about you, but in my book, a book that leave me with a big smile on my face is a good book.
Profile Image for Alba and Her Secrets..♥.
948 reviews1,157 followers
December 26, 2019
4 'Be smart. Be brave. Be vulnerable.' Stars!

I love me some Jill Shalvis, some holiday romance and some Heartbreaker Bay cheer during Christmas break! I always know this woman doesn't fail me when I don't know what to read next. I love Jill's stories and I really enjoyed Wrapped Up in You. As expected, it was sweet, funny, emotional and full of sexual tension. Kel and Ivy are so adorable together and it's beautiful to read how the fall in love wit each other while all those things happening around them.

Also, I am so happy because I finally catched up with the series now lol I loved seeing the Heartbreaker Bay crew all over again and I hope Jill is writing more stories about them because I am not ready to say goodbye to these beloved characters. Cannot wait to see what is next!
Profile Image for  Bon.
1,349 reviews198 followers
December 3, 2019
I came into this without having read the rest of the series but having seen the hype everywhere. Buuut I didn't enjoy it as much as I anticipated.
I hated how the protagonist didn't tell her deadbeat brother to GTFO, and didn't enjoy so much mention of babies or at one point, how they smell.
Otherwise I enjoyed a relatable main character who struggled financially but was a successful, independent lady for the most part...A decent fluff-tending-towards-cheesy book.
Profile Image for Lana  (Bibliomedico).
308 reviews305 followers
September 28, 2019
Check Out the full Review On My Blog : https://bibliomedico.wordpress.com/20...
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ARC provided by the publisher & Social Butterfly PR , Thanks for giving me the opportunity to read the book.
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“Sometimes in life you meet someone… And suddenly you don’t have to be alone all the time.”

Jill Shalvis has interesting writing Style , I loved her sassy , sarcastic , deep and emotional words . Even though this is my first Novel by her , I was really impressed by her characters , Writing style and storylines .

Wrapped Up In You , is the story of Ivy and Kel , when they first met , they had that instant attraction and adorable banter, then page by page , their conversations started to deepen , their simple attraction started to get more complicated , feelings developed , they became each others persons , the only one who Ivy felt safe and loved with and the only woman who Kel felt like risking his heart for again .

I loved the setting so much and the Christmas vibes were really entertaining and heart-warming , even though I wished there were more Christmas – related scenes as I’ve expected to read a holiday romance when I started this book . The side characters were great , supported the story and added a special element to this adorable love story .

If you are looking for an entertaining , engaging, touching and flirty romance between Two imperfect characters with all their flaws , pasts and complicated feelings , then don’t pass this one .

“Be smart.
Be vulnerable.
Be brave…”
Profile Image for Annie .
2,506 reviews940 followers
September 26, 2019


I’m really not surprised to see another holiday-themed book from Jill Shalvis. In fact, they are probably one of my favorite books to read by her.

WRAPPED UP IN YOU is book eight in the Heartbreaker Bay series. I really love seeing how she incorporates the holidays in these types of books. Just as you would expect, this book is rife with charm and humor and this is played up even more because of the hero and heroine.

I found that I really liked the couple this time. Ivy and Kel felt refreshing and I really liked their dynamics together. Sometimes I can feel like the books are too similar with this series, but perhaps Shalvis is starting to mix things up again.

I have noticed that there are some issues with continuity in some places like for example, the previous characters who make cameos tend to act differently than in their books. Hopefully that and the other things I’ve noticed get fixed quickly and don’t occur again.

I liked the concept of trust in this book because it was nice to see how two non-trusting people could fall in love. It just made Ivy and Del feel more relatable to readers. So if you like holiday-themed books that are spicy as they are sweet, then I would definitely recommend this book.
Profile Image for Amy.
2,642 reviews2,022 followers
December 21, 2019
Wrapped Up in You was my first Jill Shalvis book and I’m obsessed now! Is there anything better than reading a new to you author and knowing they have a huge backlist? I lost count around 30, I’m betting there’s at least 50 😱 Anyway, I loved this one and the best part for me was the authentic, relatable and messy characters. These people weren’t perfect, they were flawed and real and I’m always appreciative of that. Add in some steamy romance and sarcasm and I’m sold! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Are you a JS fan? What book of hers should I read next?
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