What do you think?
Rate this book
Love with Strings #2
What the Heart Wants
From USA Today Bestselling Author Nikki Ash comes an emotional romance about finding love after loss...
Aubree
After losing my husband, life was all about taking care of my kids and trying to remain afloat.
Brody and Hayden crashed into my life with the force of an entire ocean.
Five years is a long time to be alone.
Now, I have not one but two sexy and successful men to drown in.
But can I handle the desires, passions, and love they both deserve?
Plus, two men mean double the heartache.
And my heart? It's already mended haphazardly, cracked in multiple places from my loss.
Falling for them could be a disaster.
Choosing between them would be impossible.
But the heart wants what it wants.
And despite my better judgment, I want them both.
Oh, and did I mention that they're best friends—and want to share me?
Things just got a lot more complicated...
Aubree
After losing my husband, life was all about taking care of my kids and trying to remain afloat.
Brody and Hayden crashed into my life with the force of an entire ocean.
Five years is a long time to be alone.
Now, I have not one but two sexy and successful men to drown in.
But can I handle the desires, passions, and love they both deserve?
Plus, two men mean double the heartache.
And my heart? It's already mended haphazardly, cracked in multiple places from my loss.
Falling for them could be a disaster.
Choosing between them would be impossible.
But the heart wants what it wants.
And despite my better judgment, I want them both.
Oh, and did I mention that they're best friends—and want to share me?
Things just got a lot more complicated...
389 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 15, 2023
638 people are currently reading
3043 people want to read
About the author
Nikki Ash
76 books4,264 followersNikki Ash resides in South Florida where she is an English teacher and mom by day and a writer by night. When she’s not writing, you can find her with a book in her hand. From the Boxcar Children to Wuthering Heights to the latest Single Parent Romance, she has lived and breathed every type of book.
Reading is like breathing in, writing is like breathing out. - Pam Allyn
While reading and writing are her passions, her two children are her entire world. You can probably find them at a Disney park before you would find them at home on the weekends!
Reading is like breathing in, writing is like breathing out. - Pam Allyn
While reading and writing are her passions, her two children are her entire world. You can probably find them at a Disney park before you would find them at home on the weekends!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 442 reviews
June 14, 2023
2/5 ⭐️
This wasn’t really my kind of book sadly. It felt like insta love and I’m not a big fan of that. I’m not a huge fan of when they seem to be attracted to absolutely everything about her right from the beginning. I also don’t like when they say things like “if it were anyone else I’d run but not this girl” type of vibe. Like why does this random stranger differ? It just seems unrealistic.
With that being said though, it wasn’t all bad! I did like the men the most. I liked Brody and Hayden a lot and how they are best friends yet opposites in a way? I also really enjoyed the romance aspect. I haven’t read many this style but it was enjoyable. The romance was definitely good but again since it’s insta love, it happens too early on for me and I ended up losing interest. It ended up being repetitive and it felt too long. I’m glad I gave it a try though.
This wasn’t really my kind of book sadly. It felt like insta love and I’m not a big fan of that. I’m not a huge fan of when they seem to be attracted to absolutely everything about her right from the beginning. I also don’t like when they say things like “if it were anyone else I’d run but not this girl” type of vibe. Like why does this random stranger differ? It just seems unrealistic.
With that being said though, it wasn’t all bad! I did like the men the most. I liked Brody and Hayden a lot and how they are best friends yet opposites in a way? I also really enjoyed the romance aspect. I haven’t read many this style but it was enjoyable. The romance was definitely good but again since it’s insta love, it happens too early on for me and I ended up losing interest. It ended up being repetitive and it felt too long. I’m glad I gave it a try though.
June 15, 2023
LISTEN, I fell into this story so easily that I almost read it in one sit. I don’t even know the last time I was grabbed by a story so easily. It was
magic!
*happy sigh* It was joy. It was a hug when your spirits are at their lowest. It was love.
There is so much to appreciate about this story and its organic and realistic feel. I’ve never personally been or have had anyone in my circle be in a polyamorous relationship but even still, it all felt natural and realistic. Okay, there was this tiny thing that made only one of my eyes twitch for a nanosecond (lol) because in the grand scheme of the story it can be overlooked but, when you’re only 20% into a story and you’ve only been face-to-face one time(ish) and you start throwing out phrases like ”I want more with her … I want her heart …” turns the story into more insta than insta normally is! Luckily, it was like a tiny bleep, so I forgot it happened as fast as it happened. Feel me?
How Nikki chose to characterize both Brody and Hayden was very well done, imo. She made them friends with zero jealousy, which I think was crucial in the development of this relationship. They had also shared in the past so the ease in which the relationship grew into a polyamorous one felt very realistic to me, and it gave the story another notch of realism. Bree’s growth and acceptance of herself was also a huge plus point of this story and when her children became a part of the story, the feel-good meter catapulted!
I know this review sounds like this was some easy-breezy rainbows and gumdrops story and it was far from that but maaaaaybe because JOY people! I’m not going to plot-point it for you, so you’ll have to just #trust when I say it was equal parts intense and emotional, sweet and sexy (ooooh so sexy), with a whole lot of hope wrapped in a huge heart!
That’s it. That’s all I’ve got. Go do the thing now!
Sidenote: Am I looking forward to listening to this story as soon as possible, you ask? Why yes, yes I am! :)
There is so much to appreciate about this story and its organic and realistic feel. I’ve never personally been or have had anyone in my circle be in a polyamorous relationship but even still, it all felt natural and realistic. Okay, there was this tiny thing that made only one of my eyes twitch for a nanosecond (lol) because in the grand scheme of the story it can be overlooked but, when you’re only 20% into a story and you’ve only been face-to-face one time(ish) and you start throwing out phrases like ”I want more with her … I want her heart …” turns the story into more insta than insta normally is! Luckily, it was like a tiny bleep, so I forgot it happened as fast as it happened. Feel me?
How Nikki chose to characterize both Brody and Hayden was very well done, imo. She made them friends with zero jealousy, which I think was crucial in the development of this relationship. They had also shared in the past so the ease in which the relationship grew into a polyamorous one felt very realistic to me, and it gave the story another notch of realism. Bree’s growth and acceptance of herself was also a huge plus point of this story and when her children became a part of the story, the feel-good meter catapulted!
I know this review sounds like this was some easy-breezy rainbows and gumdrops story and it was far from that but maaaaaybe because JOY people! I’m not going to plot-point it for you, so you’ll have to just #trust when I say it was equal parts intense and emotional, sweet and sexy (ooooh so sexy), with a whole lot of hope wrapped in a huge heart!
That’s it. That’s all I’ve got. Go do the thing now!
Sidenote: Am I looking forward to listening to this story as soon as possible, you ask? Why yes, yes I am! :)
June 5, 2023
The more the merrier for this mama! It’s been several years since Bree lost her husband. Looking for love is the last thing on her mind, but her best friend encourages her to at least date and enjoy her summer while her kids are away with the in-laws.
Brody and Hayden are best friends. These two both have their reasons for being interested in Bree, and are surprised when they realize both have been pursuing her. Why should Bree have to choose when she could have both?
I loved seeing Bree come back into her sexuality with two guys who wanted nothing more than to spoil her! It was understandable that she felt guilty moving on after her husband’s death, but Brody and Hayden were very patient with her. I also loved Brody and Hayden’s past as friends, you could tell that jealously truly wasn’t an issue when it came to both of them dating Bree.
As always, the author’s writing style is so easy to read, and I finished this one in a few sittings!
TROPES: curvy single mom; MFM; baker heroine; widowed heroine/love after loss; cinnamon roll heroes
TRIGGER WARNINGS: death/grief
Brody and Hayden are best friends. These two both have their reasons for being interested in Bree, and are surprised when they realize both have been pursuing her. Why should Bree have to choose when she could have both?
I loved seeing Bree come back into her sexuality with two guys who wanted nothing more than to spoil her! It was understandable that she felt guilty moving on after her husband’s death, but Brody and Hayden were very patient with her. I also loved Brody and Hayden’s past as friends, you could tell that jealously truly wasn’t an issue when it came to both of them dating Bree.
As always, the author’s writing style is so easy to read, and I finished this one in a few sittings!
TROPES: curvy single mom; MFM; baker heroine; widowed heroine/love after loss; cinnamon roll heroes
TRIGGER WARNINGS: death/grief
July 4, 2023
dnf 47%
I literally forget I was reading it, plus I can’t read books where men think that when women has kids it’s a turn-off. And then after a month of acquaintance, they want to have children of their own with her.
I literally forget I was reading it, plus I can’t read books where men think that when women has kids it’s a turn-off. And then after a month of acquaintance, they want to have children of their own with her.
“She has kids?” His brow furrows together.
“Yeah, eight-year-old twins. A boy and a girl.”
“Huh,”
“What?”
“I just thought learning that would be a turn-off, but for some reason, I can totally see it, and it only makes her hotter.”
March 28, 2024
On one hand, I love that this story follows Brody - the teenage son from the first book of the series based on his parents - he’s the sweetest and a shining star. But by the end of the book, I'd had just about all I could tolerate of Hayden and Bree. The unnecessary drama and constant crying is just a lot.
🚩 there is one giant red flag too - and, I hate this in any menage or why choose story! It's where the guy(s) are firmly hetero but are suddenly getting it on with their best mate because the love interest thinks it’s hot. It's a bit of a grey area in this book, with one of them being "bi curious" but if anything, that just made it worse.
Not bad overall but it's never a good sign when the longer the book goes on the less you like the characters and their choices. It's a shame because I LOVED book one.
🚩 there is one giant red flag too - and, I hate this in any menage or why choose story! It's where the guy(s) are firmly hetero but are suddenly getting it on with their best mate because the love interest thinks it’s hot. It's a bit of a grey area in this book, with one of them being "bi curious" but if anything, that just made it worse.
Not bad overall but it's never a good sign when the longer the book goes on the less you like the characters and their choices. It's a shame because I LOVED book one.
June 25, 2023
4.5⭐️
I was really enjoying this book at the start, the female and male mc were great. I love Nikki ash’s writing style and her Insta love stuff, BUT THEN it switched to a diff male POV and I was super worried bc I’ve read all of her books and she has never written a “Why Choose” romance, it’s always just couples. I absolutely hate love triangles so I honestly considered DNFing, but then I decided to keep going and I’m glad I did bc it did end up being a why choose romance.
I did cut it down half a point because I didn’t like the ending. He didn’t deserve to just be forgiven like that, so much blow up and hurt and pain for it to just be like “ok whatever” at the end.
But overall all Nikki Ash books are great, some of the very few books I consider re readable. The character’s have good personality and character development, there’s always a good story line. They’re just overall written well.
I was really enjoying this book at the start, the female and male mc were great. I love Nikki ash’s writing style and her Insta love stuff, BUT THEN it switched to a diff male POV and I was super worried bc I’ve read all of her books and she has never written a “Why Choose” romance, it’s always just couples. I absolutely hate love triangles so I honestly considered DNFing, but then I decided to keep going and I’m glad I did bc it did end up being a why choose romance.
I did cut it down half a point because I didn’t like the ending. He didn’t deserve to just be forgiven like that, so much blow up and hurt and pain for it to just be like “ok whatever” at the end.
But overall all Nikki Ash books are great, some of the very few books I consider re readable. The character’s have good personality and character development, there’s always a good story line. They’re just overall written well.
June 14, 2023
“Your fight is ours. If you’ll let us fight beside you… with you.”
Aubree lost her husband four years ago, and she’s yet to move on. With a dare from her best friend, she finally says yes to one guy… and then another, without knowing both men are best friends and are open to share her.
This was so cute! It did start off with a hard punch to the heart that had me crying... And then had me in tears various times throughout the story, but overall, it was cute and heart-warming, and just a great pick-me-up read. I loved Aubree so much. My heart goes out to her. And I loved the cinnamon roll heroes that were Brody and Hayden. These men were so understanding and patient. And I loved how they were with Aubree's kids!
IF YOU LIKE
👩👧👦 single mom
🥰 cinnamon roll heroes
😮💨 mfm (with mild mm)
🤗 adorable twins
❤️ supportive family
FOLLOW ME
Instagram ❃ YouTube ❃ Lusting After Dark Romance Book Club ❃ Blog ❃ Twitter ❃ Bloglovin ❃ Goodreads ❃ Pinterest ❃ WordPress ❃ Feedly
Aubree lost her husband four years ago, and she’s yet to move on. With a dare from her best friend, she finally says yes to one guy… and then another, without knowing both men are best friends and are open to share her.
This was so cute! It did start off with a hard punch to the heart that had me crying... And then had me in tears various times throughout the story, but overall, it was cute and heart-warming, and just a great pick-me-up read. I loved Aubree so much. My heart goes out to her. And I loved the cinnamon roll heroes that were Brody and Hayden. These men were so understanding and patient. And I loved how they were with Aubree's kids!
IF YOU LIKE
👩👧👦 single mom
🥰 cinnamon roll heroes
😮💨 mfm (with mild mm)
🤗 adorable twins
❤️ supportive family
FOLLOW ME
Instagram ❃ YouTube ❃ Lusting After Dark Romance Book Club ❃ Blog ❃ Twitter ❃ Bloglovin ❃ Goodreads ❃ Pinterest ❃ WordPress ❃ Feedly
June 6, 2023
Nikki Ash as done it again!
From start to finalist this book will have you hooked. The raw emotions will have you needing a tissue for sure.
The chemistry between the three chars Brody, Bree and Hayden is off the charts. Add in two adorable kids and you will have a book that is everything that we love from this amazing author.
I can’t wait to see what she as next for us to read
From start to finalist this book will have you hooked. The raw emotions will have you needing a tissue for sure.
The chemistry between the three chars Brody, Bree and Hayden is off the charts. Add in two adorable kids and you will have a book that is everything that we love from this amazing author.
I can’t wait to see what she as next for us to read
July 1, 2024
A 10 star read!!!!!
Just reading the prologue rips your heart out💔. So a cautious WARNING to those who ugly cry for fictional characters. An array of emotions will course through your heart and if your like me you will definitely CRY! 😭😭😭
When I finished reading this book I had to take a moment just to decipher the FEELINGS I was experiencing for these characters and their loving, passionate and REMARKABLE story.
I REALLY really identified with Bree’s character. She’s relatable as a hard working women and mother. Bree’s children will steal your heart without a doubt. There are a few times when Miles will put an arrow right through it. Bree’s a real woman not just another size 0. She has body issues and imperfections.
I love that Brody and Hayden love her curves and worship her heart, body and soul.
These characters are FREAKING 🌶️🌶️🌶️and their desire for one another sizzles right of the pages of this book.
The love and respect they each have for the other is heartwarming and heart-gripping.
Lose yourself in this highly INTENSE, SENSUAL and HEART FELT story. I Loved every single moment of this book.
A note to Nikki, the brilliant author behind this BREATHTAKING and MEMORABLE book.
Those letters from Pete were so overwhelmingly beautiful yet so undeniably heartbreaking. My heart bled for Bree and her children. A testament to the fact your such a PHENOMENAL writer. You literally TOUCHED our SOULS.
Therefore, congratulations Nikki!!🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻Bree, Brody and Hayden’s story is TRULY STUNNING.
Just reading the prologue rips your heart out💔. So a cautious WARNING to those who ugly cry for fictional characters. An array of emotions will course through your heart and if your like me you will definitely CRY! 😭😭😭
When I finished reading this book I had to take a moment just to decipher the FEELINGS I was experiencing for these characters and their loving, passionate and REMARKABLE story.
I REALLY really identified with Bree’s character. She’s relatable as a hard working women and mother. Bree’s children will steal your heart without a doubt. There are a few times when Miles will put an arrow right through it. Bree’s a real woman not just another size 0. She has body issues and imperfections.
I love that Brody and Hayden love her curves and worship her heart, body and soul.
These characters are FREAKING 🌶️🌶️🌶️and their desire for one another sizzles right of the pages of this book.
The love and respect they each have for the other is heartwarming and heart-gripping.
Lose yourself in this highly INTENSE, SENSUAL and HEART FELT story. I Loved every single moment of this book.
A note to Nikki, the brilliant author behind this BREATHTAKING and MEMORABLE book.
Those letters from Pete were so overwhelmingly beautiful yet so undeniably heartbreaking. My heart bled for Bree and her children. A testament to the fact your such a PHENOMENAL writer. You literally TOUCHED our SOULS.
Therefore, congratulations Nikki!!🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻Bree, Brody and Hayden’s story is TRULY STUNNING.
June 8, 2023
When this ARC arrived on my kindle I knew it was the perfect time for it 🥹
You know when you want some so sweet and wholesome after maybe a mafia or dark romance? What The Heart Wants is just that.
It’s the mushy, gooshy, sweeter than a sweet tooth read 🧁
Aubree looses her husband abruptly and thinks that she’ll never find love again. She runs her own bakery and takes care of her twins but writes off finding another love of her life.
After five years of doing it alone, in walks not one but TWO smoke shows 😏 Hayden and Brody have been best friends their entire lives and then find themselves falling for the same sweet, curvy blonde from the bakery 🥹
This is a mfm romance with a curvy MFC and her two absolute cinnamon buns. This had me laughing and crying and reading with one hand 👀
When are two billionaire businessmen going to walk into my life and give me the Princess treatment Nikki?! WHEN?!
This one is out on June 15 🤍🧁
You know when you want some so sweet and wholesome after maybe a mafia or dark romance? What The Heart Wants is just that.
It’s the mushy, gooshy, sweeter than a sweet tooth read 🧁
Aubree looses her husband abruptly and thinks that she’ll never find love again. She runs her own bakery and takes care of her twins but writes off finding another love of her life.
After five years of doing it alone, in walks not one but TWO smoke shows 😏 Hayden and Brody have been best friends their entire lives and then find themselves falling for the same sweet, curvy blonde from the bakery 🥹
This is a mfm romance with a curvy MFC and her two absolute cinnamon buns. This had me laughing and crying and reading with one hand 👀
When are two billionaire businessmen going to walk into my life and give me the Princess treatment Nikki?! WHEN?!
This one is out on June 15 🤍🧁
October 9, 2023
5/5⭐️ 3.5/5🌶️ 5/5🎧
Audiobook Review: Nikki Ash must put crack in her books. This is the third book I’ve read of hers and they’re all one day reads for me. Once I start, I can’t stop. Her stories consume me. I’ve been lucky enough to get ALCs for the books I’ve read/listened to of hers, and she definitely picks great narrators. They always deliver a great audio performance.
What the Heart Wants is a a wholesome story of healing after tragedy and finding live again after loss. It’s about pushing boundaries, living outside the societal norm in order to be happy, and always putting family first. Even if that family is the one you choose and the family you build instead of the one you’re born with. The found family tropes is one of my absolute favorites and Aubrey was so resilient and brave in her journey to open her heart again.
The banter was hilarious, the friendships and relationships were absolute goals, and the spice was steeeammmyyyy. At one point I WOOOOOED out loud while listening.
This was a beautiful, beautiful book. I recommend it on audio to heighten the emotion behind the written words. Teddy Hamilton, Corvin King, and Kelsey Navarro Foster delivered an excellent performance.
Audiobook Review: Nikki Ash must put crack in her books. This is the third book I’ve read of hers and they’re all one day reads for me. Once I start, I can’t stop. Her stories consume me. I’ve been lucky enough to get ALCs for the books I’ve read/listened to of hers, and she definitely picks great narrators. They always deliver a great audio performance.
What the Heart Wants is a a wholesome story of healing after tragedy and finding live again after loss. It’s about pushing boundaries, living outside the societal norm in order to be happy, and always putting family first. Even if that family is the one you choose and the family you build instead of the one you’re born with. The found family tropes is one of my absolute favorites and Aubrey was so resilient and brave in her journey to open her heart again.
The banter was hilarious, the friendships and relationships were absolute goals, and the spice was steeeammmyyyy. At one point I WOOOOOED out loud while listening.
This was a beautiful, beautiful book. I recommend it on audio to heighten the emotion behind the written words. Teddy Hamilton, Corvin King, and Kelsey Navarro Foster delivered an excellent performance.
June 5, 2023
What the Heart Wants felt a lot like single mom’s fantasy story. A curvy, single mom, meets two different rich, hot men and they both want her for keeps? It’s okay though, I can suspend belief for an enjoyable story with good smut.
I really felt all the feels in this one, beginning on page one. Bree is a widow and one of the things I loved about this one was how beloved her late husband was. Often in the single mom trope, the previous spouse was this awful person, but their relationship (even in past tense) was very heartwarming. Her kids stole my heart, and the relationship they form with Hayden and Brody was beautiful.
My only real issue is the third act break-up. It felt glossed over, and I didn’t really feel like the offender truly apologized. The three of them had promised no secrets, and that was broken so easily. And the two non-offenders really deserved personal apologies, and I truly felt one of them was missing, and they were just expected to get over it.
Other than that, What the Heart Wants was a sweet and sexy read with a lot of heartwarming moments.
I really felt all the feels in this one, beginning on page one. Bree is a widow and one of the things I loved about this one was how beloved her late husband was. Often in the single mom trope, the previous spouse was this awful person, but their relationship (even in past tense) was very heartwarming. Her kids stole my heart, and the relationship they form with Hayden and Brody was beautiful.
My only real issue is the third act break-up. It felt glossed over, and I didn’t really feel like the offender truly apologized. The three of them had promised no secrets, and that was broken so easily. And the two non-offenders really deserved personal apologies, and I truly felt one of them was missing, and they were just expected to get over it.
Other than that, What the Heart Wants was a sweet and sexy read with a lot of heartwarming moments.
June 15, 2023
I am new to the whole MFM scene. I am usually all about MF. But I recently read a book that got me interested and when I saw Ash had a story coming out, I knew I had to give it a go. And man was I so happy I did. It was beautifully written (like every one of her books) and done to perfection (also, like every one of her books). I was absolutely enthralled with this trouple.
The romance was so dang spicy and utterly flammable. Seriously, watch those kindles…the heat in this one just may have them exploding. What I loved most about the relationship and the romance was that Bree didn’t want to choose and made sure both guys were included in everything. And I mean everything.
If MFM is your thing, 100% grab this one up. If you’re unsure if it’s your thing but you think it may be? Definitely grab it up. Ash writes everything perfectly and in a way that pulls you in leaving you a believer before the book is even finished. 5 Stars.
The romance was so dang spicy and utterly flammable. Seriously, watch those kindles…the heat in this one just may have them exploding. What I loved most about the relationship and the romance was that Bree didn’t want to choose and made sure both guys were included in everything. And I mean everything.
If MFM is your thing, 100% grab this one up. If you’re unsure if it’s your thing but you think it may be? Definitely grab it up. Ash writes everything perfectly and in a way that pulls you in leaving you a believer before the book is even finished. 5 Stars.
June 18, 2023
Do I usually read throuple book?? NO
Did i like it?? SO MUCH!
Did i get butterflies over and over again while reading this? YEAH VERY MUCH!!
did i get jealous over a character (FMC)who's LITTRELLY ink on the paper?? YESS
The way they both Hayden and Brody were so understanding, caring towards bree that got me always ALWAYS!! Why can't we have them in real life. are we even living! Is this a living? It got my unhinged interest from the first page to the last page. Anyways I love this book.
In conclusion it was worth reading!!
Did i like it?? SO MUCH!
Did i get butterflies over and over again while reading this? YEAH VERY MUCH!!
did i get jealous over a character (FMC)who's LITTRELLY ink on the paper?? YESS
The way they both Hayden and Brody were so understanding, caring towards bree that got me always ALWAYS!! Why can't we have them in real life. are we even living! Is this a living? It got my unhinged interest from the first page to the last page. Anyways I love this book.
In conclusion it was worth reading!!
June 15, 2023
Well first off two gorgeous men who cater to your every whim. YES!!
Aubree Heart lost her husband and grandmother is a short period of time and now she lives for her kids and business.
I miss having a partner, someone to be by my side, to hold me and kiss me and love me. I’m mentally exhausted and emotionally drained. But more than that, I’m lonely.
Hayden is sent by his father to get her to sign away her livelihood but instead he asked her on a date.
But the size of my bank account isn’t all I am. I hope you’ll give me a chance to show you every part that makes me who I am.
Brody also has an immediate attraction to Bree. When she finds out there best friends things kind of explode.
“Sweetness, there is no his time or my time. It’s our time.
This was a super sweet romance. Both hero’s are attentive and loving. Sexy and heartwarming. Just different enough that it’s not the same old.
Aubree Heart lost her husband and grandmother is a short period of time and now she lives for her kids and business.
I miss having a partner, someone to be by my side, to hold me and kiss me and love me. I’m mentally exhausted and emotionally drained. But more than that, I’m lonely.
Hayden is sent by his father to get her to sign away her livelihood but instead he asked her on a date.
But the size of my bank account isn’t all I am. I hope you’ll give me a chance to show you every part that makes me who I am.
Brody also has an immediate attraction to Bree. When she finds out there best friends things kind of explode.
“Sweetness, there is no his time or my time. It’s our time.
This was a super sweet romance. Both hero’s are attentive and loving. Sexy and heartwarming. Just different enough that it’s not the same old.
June 20, 2023
The letters 🥹 phew had me crying every time.
Bree becomes a widow due to her husband passing away unexpectedly and he left letters explaining how he wants Bree to move on and find love again. Needless to say, I don’t think she expected to fall in love with two best friends Brody and Hayden. I love how the guys supported her through her grief, insecurity, and doubt that would pop up. The bond they share with her kids 💕🥹.
Tropes:
Single mom
MFM or why choose
Second chance romance
Spice
Bree becomes a widow due to her husband passing away unexpectedly and he left letters explaining how he wants Bree to move on and find love again. Needless to say, I don’t think she expected to fall in love with two best friends Brody and Hayden. I love how the guys supported her through her grief, insecurity, and doubt that would pop up. The bond they share with her kids 💕🥹.
Tropes:
Single mom
MFM or why choose
Second chance romance
Spice
June 19, 2023
This book made me feel everything from saddness to anger to love to happiness. I was not prepared to have so many emotions but it was well worth it. Nikki Ash does it again this book. It was beautifully written and i could not get enough of it. I did not want it to end. I love Bree, Brody, and Hayden's love story. Please do yourself a favor and go read it.
July 25, 2023
What the Heart Wants by Nikki Ash is a curvy single mom romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Teddy Hamilton, Corvin King, and Kelsey Navarro.
I absolutely love Nikki's books! She always gives me all the feels with each of her books. I loved the relationship that bloomed between Hayden, Brody, and Aubree. They had their ups and downs, but you couldn't help but root for them. I really enjoyed getting all of their points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
Teddy, Corvin, and Kelsey did an amazing job on the narration. They really brought the story to life. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I would highly recommend this book if you like contemporary romances, single mom romances, or why choose romances.
The Flock Team
I absolutely love Nikki's books! She always gives me all the feels with each of her books. I loved the relationship that bloomed between Hayden, Brody, and Aubree. They had their ups and downs, but you couldn't help but root for them. I really enjoyed getting all of their points of views throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
Teddy, Corvin, and Kelsey did an amazing job on the narration. They really brought the story to life. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I would highly recommend this book if you like contemporary romances, single mom romances, or why choose romances.
The Flock Team
July 29, 2024
Did I read/find this because of a reel I saw on instagram? Yes. No regrets. Maybe I was feeling emotional but I def cried when her husband died, was not expecting the on page death. The letters Peter wrote to his family before he died was so sweet. Overall I really enjoyed this one
July 7, 2023
What a sweet poly story!
There’s a hea
There’s two men that I both enjoyed.
Fmc was relatable and real.
Obviously there were bits and pieces that leave you thinking “really?” But that’s what romance is.
Both men were almost in instalove and the kids don’t act out…. But the story was lovely, and the narration was done well.
There’s a hea
There’s two men that I both enjoyed.
Fmc was relatable and real.
Obviously there were bits and pieces that leave you thinking “really?” But that’s what romance is.
Both men were almost in instalove and the kids don’t act out…. But the story was lovely, and the narration was done well.
Read
April 22, 2024Dnfed at 43%
October 21, 2025
3.75/5
April 23, 2024
emotional
Omg this book was so amazing. The end kept making me cry but I loved it so much. Cannot wait to read more.
Omg this book was so amazing. The end kept making me cry but I loved it so much. Cannot wait to read more.
June 18, 2023
This is a single parent romance, but doesn't feel like it for the majority of the book because the children are away visiting a relative until past halfway through the book. Like the MMCs seem to fall immediately for the FMC, they also fall immediately for her children, making it all a little too convenient for my tastes. The love after loss aspect was done so, so well (I usually hate this trope), except for one part with a few comments that threw me off. The FMC comments that she had no idea sex could be that good, or that orgasms could be like that, thereby cheapening the deep relationship she had with her late husband, even though they supposedly had a good sex life (which she then calls kind of vanilla). It felt like an unneeded low blow, and more so due to the culture in romance lately where it seems like the FMC must either be a virgin, or if she isn't, the sex can't have ever been good for her before the MMC(s) come into her life. Smh
••• SPOILER in this paragraph:
Anyway, their relationship development was cute and I like that they were so patient and understanding with her. There were not one, not two, but THREE breakups throughout the story, and the apologies felt appropriate and well done for all except the last one, which just ends in the middle of an argument with her offering sex and then jumps to their wedding. All three issues were about the characters not communicating, so we never really get to see that they finally choose to communicate big issues with each other moving forward. This was an especially big letdown, since it was the one thing the FMC asked of them, and she was the one to come back and forgive them each time.
I liked this story, but the more I write this review, the more I realize that I didn't like it as much as I had hoped to, and will probably only give it 2 stars instead of the 3 I had planned. I was looking for another good menage/polyamorous storyline to fall into, but this was full of too much unnecessary angst. The insecurities of the FMC that go throughout the entire book, the continued withholding of important information when she clearly asked for there to be honesty in their relationship after the first mistake, the telling instead of showing of events and character interactions in order to skip over time, etc. Especially The MMCs humoring the FMC's fantasies of watching live gay porn by occasionally fooling around with each other in front of her when one WAS bi curious but doesn't consider himself bi, and the other is definitely straight, just feels like queer baiting to me, and it was unnecessary to the storyline. Their story of one friend offering to help the other friend explore his curiosity back in college without judgement was sweet, and should have ended there without it becoming something they continue to do just to fulfill her fantasy. Either add an actual relationship between the two, or keep it at casual sword crossing.
I did really like the support system and the side characters. The children, when on page, were cute and funny. I also like that the MMCs were clearly distinguishable from each other from the very beginning. There were some funny parts and their dates were endearing. I really wish I liked it more than I did.
••• SPOILER in this paragraph:
Anyway, their relationship development was cute and I like that they were so patient and understanding with her. There were not one, not two, but THREE breakups throughout the story, and the apologies felt appropriate and well done for all except the last one, which just ends in the middle of an argument with her offering sex and then jumps to their wedding. All three issues were about the characters not communicating, so we never really get to see that they finally choose to communicate big issues with each other moving forward. This was an especially big letdown, since it was the one thing the FMC asked of them, and she was the one to come back and forgive them each time.
I liked this story, but the more I write this review, the more I realize that I didn't like it as much as I had hoped to, and will probably only give it 2 stars instead of the 3 I had planned. I was looking for another good menage/polyamorous storyline to fall into, but this was full of too much unnecessary angst. The insecurities of the FMC that go throughout the entire book, the continued withholding of important information when she clearly asked for there to be honesty in their relationship after the first mistake, the telling instead of showing of events and character interactions in order to skip over time, etc. Especially The MMCs humoring the FMC's fantasies of watching live gay porn by occasionally fooling around with each other in front of her when one WAS bi curious but doesn't consider himself bi, and the other is definitely straight, just feels like queer baiting to me, and it was unnecessary to the storyline. Their story of one friend offering to help the other friend explore his curiosity back in college without judgement was sweet, and should have ended there without it becoming something they continue to do just to fulfill her fantasy. Either add an actual relationship between the two, or keep it at casual sword crossing.
I did really like the support system and the side characters. The children, when on page, were cute and funny. I also like that the MMCs were clearly distinguishable from each other from the very beginning. There were some funny parts and their dates were endearing. I really wish I liked it more than I did.
June 26, 2023
“𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐦 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐚 𝐟𝐥𝐚𝐰… 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬. 𝐈𝐟 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐢𝐭 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐝𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞.”
I love me a good single mom romance, add Nikki Ash’s name to it and I am completely sold! What the Heart Wants left me wanting for nothing.
From the moment I met Brody in No Strings, I knew there was something special about him. I could not wait to read his story. He’s grown so much from that teenage boy full of understandable anger to a man with a beautiful heart. And seeing him all grown up?? Oh man, what an absolute swooner he was. He was a sweetheart with a dirty mouth on the side, a dangerous but most addictive combination. Hayden and Aubree were his perfect complement. Hayden was Brody’s best friend. I loved their friendship, there was never any judgment, just love and acceptance. Even in the times he had me ready to throw my kindle with some of his actions, he was always thinking of Aubree and Brody first. He was willing to do whatever it took to make them happy. He also had a sexy alpha side that left for some kindle sizzling moments.
Nikki Ash brought all the angst with this one!! I mean prologue in, I was in tears! My poor heart ached for Aubree. I mean I was hit with every single feel. One of favorite things about Nikki Ash is that she too is a baby fanatic so I’m guaranteed to have my baby fever fulfilled every time. This was my first MFM with a single mom, I must say I truly enjoyed the way Nikki navigated the relationship between the kids and Hayden and Brody. Children are born knowing love purely, unbiasedly and unconditionally and I loved seeing that portrayed through the eyes of Miles and Evie. They brought so much life to this story. They were the cutest and made for the most heartfelt of moments.
I loved the way Hayden and Brody just fell in love with these tiny humans and there wasn’t a single thing they wouldn’t do for them. The way they changed their whole lives to make them a priority left me with the biggest smile. Nikki had me completely riveted and from the moment I started, I was unable to put this book down. I was so invested in the hea of these people whose hearts and trust had already been through the wringer.
Another fan freaking tastic read from my girl Nikki Ash. Her stories never disappoint, What the Heart Wants is no exception.
I love me a good single mom romance, add Nikki Ash’s name to it and I am completely sold! What the Heart Wants left me wanting for nothing.
From the moment I met Brody in No Strings, I knew there was something special about him. I could not wait to read his story. He’s grown so much from that teenage boy full of understandable anger to a man with a beautiful heart. And seeing him all grown up?? Oh man, what an absolute swooner he was. He was a sweetheart with a dirty mouth on the side, a dangerous but most addictive combination. Hayden and Aubree were his perfect complement. Hayden was Brody’s best friend. I loved their friendship, there was never any judgment, just love and acceptance. Even in the times he had me ready to throw my kindle with some of his actions, he was always thinking of Aubree and Brody first. He was willing to do whatever it took to make them happy. He also had a sexy alpha side that left for some kindle sizzling moments.
Nikki Ash brought all the angst with this one!! I mean prologue in, I was in tears! My poor heart ached for Aubree. I mean I was hit with every single feel. One of favorite things about Nikki Ash is that she too is a baby fanatic so I’m guaranteed to have my baby fever fulfilled every time. This was my first MFM with a single mom, I must say I truly enjoyed the way Nikki navigated the relationship between the kids and Hayden and Brody. Children are born knowing love purely, unbiasedly and unconditionally and I loved seeing that portrayed through the eyes of Miles and Evie. They brought so much life to this story. They were the cutest and made for the most heartfelt of moments.
I loved the way Hayden and Brody just fell in love with these tiny humans and there wasn’t a single thing they wouldn’t do for them. The way they changed their whole lives to make them a priority left me with the biggest smile. Nikki had me completely riveted and from the moment I started, I was unable to put this book down. I was so invested in the hea of these people whose hearts and trust had already been through the wringer.
Another fan freaking tastic read from my girl Nikki Ash. Her stories never disappoint, What the Heart Wants is no exception.
August 23, 2023
What The Heart Wants
Single Mom FMC
Why Choose
Two Rich MMC
Second Chance at Love
Nikki Ash has written an endearing love story with What the Heart Wants. Single moms will resonate with the FMC and long for their own Brody and Hayden to take a little stress of their plate and add a little spice to their lives.
Bree’s story starts out heartbreakingly sad and quickly evolves into a steamy yet sweetheart type of romance that will have the reader melting inside.
Highly recommend picking up this book if you’re in for a why choose HEA.
Single Mom FMC
Why Choose
Two Rich MMC
Second Chance at Love
Nikki Ash has written an endearing love story with What the Heart Wants. Single moms will resonate with the FMC and long for their own Brody and Hayden to take a little stress of their plate and add a little spice to their lives.
Bree’s story starts out heartbreakingly sad and quickly evolves into a steamy yet sweetheart type of romance that will have the reader melting inside.
Highly recommend picking up this book if you’re in for a why choose HEA.
July 14, 2023
4.5⭐
this was so so cute and the spice was 🤭🤌🏻 although this is an MFM, it does have a bit of MM which was a huge bonus for me. I would've read it sooner if i knew that😌👌🏻🤣
the bonus epilogue........ MMF deliciousness🔥
this was so so cute and the spice was 🤭🤌🏻 although this is an MFM, it does have a bit of MM which was a huge bonus for me. I would've read it sooner if i knew that😌👌🏻🤣
the bonus epilogue........ MMF deliciousness🔥
November 14, 2024
This is the worse book I’ve ever read, but for the good of Goodreads I finished it to right this review:
1. Two men? Awesome. Both men being gorgeous, abs-for-days billionaires who both work for their respective CEO daddies for huge corporate organizations? Really? We couldn’t have made them a bit different? A bit of personality or different body styles at least.
2. The aforementioned men are roommates. You’re billionaires and you live together? Why? Okay you’re best friends so maybe live in the same condo building… but living together in the penthouse, that never made sense to me.
3. You wanna talk on and on about Aubree being “curvy” and “thick” and so sexy because of it, but when she spends her first night at the boys place (who are skinnier and muscley by the descriptions) she wears one of their boxers to sleep in… that math doesn’t math. She ain’t curvy, it ruined my image of her.
4. Aubree is also the proud owner of a local bakery that has a major clientele base spanning from the past 50 years of business and she makes delicious pastries. But then she continues to talk about making baked goods days in advance so she can go bang her boy toys. I have never in my life heard of a bakery selling day old goods as fresh and yes, every customer should be able to tell the difference. This is a small point but like… cmon?? This book doesn’t fucking make sense
5. You’re telling me that an independent widowed single mom of twins is marrying and moving in with two men in a span of 4 months? Maybe 5 months? Is she insane?? There’s absolutely no way.
6. Why does Aubree cry so much? I understand the parts where she’s emotional over her husband but every page she’s sobbing about everything.
7. Brody, Hayden and Aubree make the kids gender roles very clear cut. Talking about Miles being the man of the house at 8 years old, saying his pizza is “manly” and Evies is the girly one. Buying him an expensive watch for his back to school gift and then getting Evie a back pack. At this day and age, it just gave me the ick.
8. Zero fucking plot. The boys lie to her, ‘Oh thats okay, we just need to communicate better’, the boys lie to her AGAIN, ‘I forgive you, just try to communicate better’, the one guy WALKS OUT WITH NO EXPLANATION AND DEVASTATES HER KIDS, ‘I still want to marry him and it’s all going to be perfect’…. And then it’s all perfect.
I read this book so you don’t have to. You’re welcome.
1. Two men? Awesome. Both men being gorgeous, abs-for-days billionaires who both work for their respective CEO daddies for huge corporate organizations? Really? We couldn’t have made them a bit different? A bit of personality or different body styles at least.
2. The aforementioned men are roommates. You’re billionaires and you live together? Why? Okay you’re best friends so maybe live in the same condo building… but living together in the penthouse, that never made sense to me.
3. You wanna talk on and on about Aubree being “curvy” and “thick” and so sexy because of it, but when she spends her first night at the boys place (who are skinnier and muscley by the descriptions) she wears one of their boxers to sleep in… that math doesn’t math. She ain’t curvy, it ruined my image of her.
4. Aubree is also the proud owner of a local bakery that has a major clientele base spanning from the past 50 years of business and she makes delicious pastries. But then she continues to talk about making baked goods days in advance so she can go bang her boy toys. I have never in my life heard of a bakery selling day old goods as fresh and yes, every customer should be able to tell the difference. This is a small point but like… cmon?? This book doesn’t fucking make sense
5. You’re telling me that an independent widowed single mom of twins is marrying and moving in with two men in a span of 4 months? Maybe 5 months? Is she insane?? There’s absolutely no way.
6. Why does Aubree cry so much? I understand the parts where she’s emotional over her husband but every page she’s sobbing about everything.
7. Brody, Hayden and Aubree make the kids gender roles very clear cut. Talking about Miles being the man of the house at 8 years old, saying his pizza is “manly” and Evies is the girly one. Buying him an expensive watch for his back to school gift and then getting Evie a back pack. At this day and age, it just gave me the ick.
8. Zero fucking plot. The boys lie to her, ‘Oh thats okay, we just need to communicate better’, the boys lie to her AGAIN, ‘I forgive you, just try to communicate better’, the one guy WALKS OUT WITH NO EXPLANATION AND DEVASTATES HER KIDS, ‘I still want to marry him and it’s all going to be perfect’…. And then it’s all perfect.
I read this book so you don’t have to. You’re welcome.
December 20, 2024
What The Heart Wants is the second book in the No Strings series and can read entirely fine as a standalone. I do recommend the first book to get more background info on Brody and his family, but it is not necessary. Okay well queen Nikki has done it yet again. She actually restored my faith in the why choose/poly genre, I was getting annoyed of all the ones I read just focusing on the physical/smut part. Trust me in this one, that is not all you're getting. Nikki is a master storyteller, the way she crafted this story so beautifully is truly extraordinary. The emotion and love felt through this book is absolutely unreal. Truly I am speechless.
The author created some amazing characters. Brody & Hayden are absolutely beautiful humans. The way they love each other as best friends with every fiber of their being was so heartwarming. Bree is the woman with the biggest heart and so much love to give. The way these 3 fall completely in love with one another, the pacing was perfect, the development was great, the interactions on point and everything felt so real. I could feel every single emotion. Once the kids & other family members were introduced to the relationship, Nikki broke me, it was the most beautiful thing, to watch the acceptance of this unconventional relationship. I think she really did justice to the polyamory/why choose relationships in a realistic way, where you feel the love between the characters and it's not solely based on the physical. Trust me though, those spicy scenes are 🥵👌 but not overbearing!
Nikki I am in awe at what you created. It was absolutely beautiful. A masterpiece of this genre. The best I've read for this genre hands down, done with so much grace and respect! If you want to try out this genre, please do it with this book, you won't regret it !
🎧 The narration by Teddy Hamilton, Kelsey Navarro Foster & Corvin King was perfection. I loved having a distinct voice for each character. They played their parts perfectly, the emotions and love felt throughout the whole book. Absolute stellar performance!
The author created some amazing characters. Brody & Hayden are absolutely beautiful humans. The way they love each other as best friends with every fiber of their being was so heartwarming. Bree is the woman with the biggest heart and so much love to give. The way these 3 fall completely in love with one another, the pacing was perfect, the development was great, the interactions on point and everything felt so real. I could feel every single emotion. Once the kids & other family members were introduced to the relationship, Nikki broke me, it was the most beautiful thing, to watch the acceptance of this unconventional relationship. I think she really did justice to the polyamory/why choose relationships in a realistic way, where you feel the love between the characters and it's not solely based on the physical. Trust me though, those spicy scenes are 🥵👌 but not overbearing!
Nikki I am in awe at what you created. It was absolutely beautiful. A masterpiece of this genre. The best I've read for this genre hands down, done with so much grace and respect! If you want to try out this genre, please do it with this book, you won't regret it !
🎧 The narration by Teddy Hamilton, Kelsey Navarro Foster & Corvin King was perfection. I loved having a distinct voice for each character. They played their parts perfectly, the emotions and love felt throughout the whole book. Absolute stellar performance!
June 21, 2023
˗ˏˋ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ⋆ ´ˎ˗
﹌﹌﹌
4 stars! The story did have some intense sexual material, but I ate it up. I enjoyed the relationships between the characters and how, when one of the guys messed up, he would take responsibility and stand up for the female. Personally, I didn't like the beginning of the story, but I thought it grew better as it went along. I think these three complement each other wonderfully, and their bond is amazing. I especially love how Brody and Hayden developed relationships with Bree's children. Although the prologue was quite depressing and I did cry a little bit, it was incredibly nicely written. I appreciated how the author made an effort to include emotions that we could all identify with. It was as if we could understand what was occurring to the characters and everything they were thinking, as well as the intense emotions they were experiencing. Also, there were the joyous and humorous times and like many stories, this one had its share of screwed-up parts, but generally, I adored it. Although the epilogue was pretty endearing, I do want to bring up Pete. I adored the way this story depicted Bree's grief for her husband Pete. I admired the fact that she never sought to displace him but rather sought the kind of love he desired. The story delivered exactly what was required of it. It demonstrated the love, the healing, and the bereavement aspects. READ ITTTT!!!
﹌﹌﹌
﹌﹌﹌
4 stars! The story did have some intense sexual material, but I ate it up. I enjoyed the relationships between the characters and how, when one of the guys messed up, he would take responsibility and stand up for the female. Personally, I didn't like the beginning of the story, but I thought it grew better as it went along. I think these three complement each other wonderfully, and their bond is amazing. I especially love how Brody and Hayden developed relationships with Bree's children. Although the prologue was quite depressing and I did cry a little bit, it was incredibly nicely written. I appreciated how the author made an effort to include emotions that we could all identify with. It was as if we could understand what was occurring to the characters and everything they were thinking, as well as the intense emotions they were experiencing. Also, there were the joyous and humorous times and like many stories, this one had its share of screwed-up parts, but generally, I adored it. Although the epilogue was pretty endearing, I do want to bring up Pete. I adored the way this story depicted Bree's grief for her husband Pete. I admired the fact that she never sought to displace him but rather sought the kind of love he desired. The story delivered exactly what was required of it. It demonstrated the love, the healing, and the bereavement aspects. READ ITTTT!!!
﹌﹌﹌
Displaying 1 - 30 of 442 reviews