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Average Gents #5
Then You Happened
After finding out his friends find his nonstop quest for love to be a little excessive. Derek has decided to put a stop to dating altogether.
Now, he's stuck in a no-go zone just in time for someone new to enter the friend group.
Elizabeth is a single mom who has been out of the dating pool for a long time, but when she meets Derek, the sweet and caring friend of a friend, she thinks things are about to change.
When things don’t go quite as she expects, she accepts his friendship and begins a journey to help him reinvent his father’s failing hardware store to keep the legacy alive.
Spending hours together working, they begin to see that their feelings are not so easily brushed aside and when push comes to shove, their friendship blossoms into a romance they’ll never forget.
But when things get hard for the hardware store, and real life starts to butt in to their relationship, they have to decide if they can weather the storm, or if things will end for good.
Then You Happened is a friends-to-lovers, single parent, slow burn romance. It is an interconnected standalone.
Now, he's stuck in a no-go zone just in time for someone new to enter the friend group.
Elizabeth is a single mom who has been out of the dating pool for a long time, but when she meets Derek, the sweet and caring friend of a friend, she thinks things are about to change.
When things don’t go quite as she expects, she accepts his friendship and begins a journey to help him reinvent his father’s failing hardware store to keep the legacy alive.
Spending hours together working, they begin to see that their feelings are not so easily brushed aside and when push comes to shove, their friendship blossoms into a romance they’ll never forget.
But when things get hard for the hardware store, and real life starts to butt in to their relationship, they have to decide if they can weather the storm, or if things will end for good.
Then You Happened is a friends-to-lovers, single parent, slow burn romance. It is an interconnected standalone.
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About the author
J.S. Wood
30 books190 followersJ.S. Wood is the author of the Average Gents series. After coining the phrase "Nice Guy Romance", she has used this to make a brand for herself to represent the underrated nice guy. Originally from Colorado, she now resides with her husband and children in Wyoming, writing anything that inspiration strikes. Her next series, The Three Rivers Trevors Ranch, is inspired by her horse training upbringing and will bring a slew of 'touch her and ---" cowboys. You can connect with her on Instagram @authorjswood, TikTok, @authorjswood, or her website www.jswoodauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
February 28, 2026
I actually gave this a 3.5 stars. This book was so cute! Single mom, Elizabeth, is in a successful career and really just happy with how her life is going so far. Even with the buttheads up at her work giving her a hard time most days, but she’s tough and can handle it. However, now she feels like it may be time to get out there and start dating again. Her daughter is now 4 years old and Elizabeth just wants to have some adult fun and let off some steam.
The friend group that her friend is apart of is trying to initiate her into the inner circle and in that circle is Derek. Cute, sweet, funny Derek. After seeing Elizabeth at the wedding that happened at the beginning of the book, Derek now believes in love at first sight. However he has just sworn off of dating so when he notices Elizabeth is there at a game night, he offers to babysit for her instead of asking her out 🤦♀️😂. Poor Derek didn’t think she would actually take him up on his offer but well…she does! And now Derek falls in love with her daughter and he’s super screwed now. Poor Derek.
Without spoiling too much, Elizabeth and Derek find more and more ways to spend time with each other. She helps Derek with marketing strategies for his drowning business and Derek comes up with any fun excuse to spend time with Elizabeth and her daughter.
The 3rd act breakup was what I didn’t like. Like, 3rd acts are necessary in books because it gives you that 1-2-punch for the ending feels. But this one was just a no for me. But it’s ok! It’s a great book!
TROPES ✨
👩👧 Single Parent
❤️🔥Slow Burn
🙋♂️He Falls First
✋Friend Zoned
👨👩👦👦 Found Family
🦮 Golden Retriever MC
❤️ Friends To Lovers
Favorite parts:
🌸 When Elizabeth realizes Derek is a certain boy from her past
💕 When Derek calls Elizabeth and her daughter “his girls”
🫠 Elizabeth’s daughter who was so cute
Thank you to Hambright PR and author J. S. Wood for the opportunity to read this book and provide my honest review! I want to go back and read the whole series now!
Cover art is so cute on every book in this series too so props to the artist!
The friend group that her friend is apart of is trying to initiate her into the inner circle and in that circle is Derek. Cute, sweet, funny Derek. After seeing Elizabeth at the wedding that happened at the beginning of the book, Derek now believes in love at first sight. However he has just sworn off of dating so when he notices Elizabeth is there at a game night, he offers to babysit for her instead of asking her out 🤦♀️😂. Poor Derek didn’t think she would actually take him up on his offer but well…she does! And now Derek falls in love with her daughter and he’s super screwed now. Poor Derek.
Without spoiling too much, Elizabeth and Derek find more and more ways to spend time with each other. She helps Derek with marketing strategies for his drowning business and Derek comes up with any fun excuse to spend time with Elizabeth and her daughter.
The 3rd act breakup was what I didn’t like. Like, 3rd acts are necessary in books because it gives you that 1-2-punch for the ending feels. But this one was just a no for me. But it’s ok! It’s a great book!
TROPES ✨
👩👧 Single Parent
❤️🔥Slow Burn
🙋♂️He Falls First
✋Friend Zoned
👨👩👦👦 Found Family
🦮 Golden Retriever MC
❤️ Friends To Lovers
Favorite parts:
🌸 When Elizabeth realizes Derek is a certain boy from her past
💕 When Derek calls Elizabeth and her daughter “his girls”
🫠 Elizabeth’s daughter who was so cute
Thank you to Hambright PR and author J. S. Wood for the opportunity to read this book and provide my honest review! I want to go back and read the whole series now!
Cover art is so cute on every book in this series too so props to the artist!
March 10, 2026
This was a sweet and cute single mom romance. There are points where I just wanted to shake the characters to get them to realize how they felt, but the story had some really good character growth.
Derek is one of the last single guys in his friend group. I was cracking up how he kept putting himself in the friend ground with the single mom, Elizabeth, who had caught his eye. I absolutely loved his relationship with her little girl. He was a sweet guy, but he was struggling with his business and didn’t know how to let anyone in. Elizabeth is a devoted single mom and she was easily relatable. I also loved the little history that these two had but didn’t know realize at first.
I loved the elements of healing, second chances and the found family vibes. Watching them navigate their feelings and learning to let someone in.
Derek is one of the last single guys in his friend group. I was cracking up how he kept putting himself in the friend ground with the single mom, Elizabeth, who had caught his eye. I absolutely loved his relationship with her little girl. He was a sweet guy, but he was struggling with his business and didn’t know how to let anyone in. Elizabeth is a devoted single mom and she was easily relatable. I also loved the little history that these two had but didn’t know realize at first.
I loved the elements of healing, second chances and the found family vibes. Watching them navigate their feelings and learning to let someone in.
March 26, 2026
Then You Happened is such a book you'll want to get cozy and read! It is such a sweet romance that you'll want to read and read again. I love it when I find a book that I know will be one of my go to comfort reads and this is definitely one of them!
Derek is a hopeless romantic that has been trying to find someone that makes him feel like he did when he saw a girl at camp when he was a kid. Elizabeth is afraid she'll never find love or anyone to give her butterflies like the boy that left her wildflowers on her pillow at camp when she was a girl. Then they meet each other at the wedding of their mutual best friends and they both feel that pull towards each other. But friend zone each other instead. The journey to an HEA is something you'll definitely want to read!
Thank you to J.S.Wood and Hambright PR for this amazing ARC. I truly loved every minute of reading it!
Derek is a hopeless romantic that has been trying to find someone that makes him feel like he did when he saw a girl at camp when he was a kid. Elizabeth is afraid she'll never find love or anyone to give her butterflies like the boy that left her wildflowers on her pillow at camp when she was a girl. Then they meet each other at the wedding of their mutual best friends and they both feel that pull towards each other. But friend zone each other instead. The journey to an HEA is something you'll definitely want to read!
Thank you to J.S.Wood and Hambright PR for this amazing ARC. I truly loved every minute of reading it!
March 14, 2026
Received an arc for this one .
3.5 stars !
There is something about a masculine man owning it by strutting out in a full blown wedding gown and twerking at his best friends wedding.
How unfortunate that he decided to go on a dating hiatus right as his best friends wife decides to bring her long time high school friend into the friend group. ( the girl he saw at the wedding… the girl he can’t stop thinking about . The girl he believes could be his dream girl)
Yikes
There is chemistry and it’s definitely a slow burn
Elizabeth is a single mom
And
* swoon* when he refers to Elizabeth and her daughter as “ my girls”
The story was good.
3.5 stars !
There is something about a masculine man owning it by strutting out in a full blown wedding gown and twerking at his best friends wedding.
How unfortunate that he decided to go on a dating hiatus right as his best friends wife decides to bring her long time high school friend into the friend group. ( the girl he saw at the wedding… the girl he can’t stop thinking about . The girl he believes could be his dream girl)
Yikes
There is chemistry and it’s definitely a slow burn
Elizabeth is a single mom
And
* swoon* when he refers to Elizabeth and her daughter as “ my girls”
The story was good.
March 17, 2026
Thanks so much to the author and Hambright PR for the gifted advanced e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts. All opinions are entirely my own. { partner }
My reviews and content can also be found on StoryGraph, on Instagram @Tackling_TBR, on TikTok @TacklingTBR, and on my blog tacklingtbr.home.blog.
TW: discussion of loss of parent (off page, prior to events)
{ 2.5 stars, rounded up to 3 }
There were a lot of things to really love about this book.
I really liked Elizabeth as our FMC - I mean, a sweet single mom who goes to the mat for her friends and family? What's not to love?
I thought it was SO SWEET that Derek turned out to have a connection to Elizabeth's past. Truly is there anything sweeter than a second chance romance or a childhood crush coming back into your life?
I also really loved reading the parts about Elizabeth helping Derek to turn things around for his hardware store.
A storyline about two characters bringing their different expertise or passions together for a good cause or small business (think: the handsome local contractor helping rebuild the old inn that she just inherited from a distant relative) will almost always be an automatic win for me.
But all of that being said, there were also some things that made this a somewhat challenging read for me.
Among the tropes that I have a hard time with, or that I can only take in small doses before it starts to get to me a bit, are a miscommunication trope, a third act breakup (when it doesn't feel like it makes sense within the plot), and an extended friend zone. And this book had all three in spades.
While the concept of a friend zone in real life immediately annoys me (but that's a soap box for another day), I understand its place as a trope in romance books and media. It's an easy way to build up the tension of a slow burn and to explain away why a romance might be a bit slow to start without making a reader want to yell.
But everything in moderation. By the time these two characters finally talked to each other (hello, miscommunication trope) enough to take each other out of their mutual friend zoning my kindle told me that I was literally 46% of the way through the book. And this isn't exactly a short read, sitting at 312 pages.
It was just entirely too long for me, and by the time it was resolved with a single, simple conversation, I just sort of found myself rolling my eyes at the whole ordeal.
The other thing that made this a tough one for me has to do with the way Derek, our MMC, seemed to be made to act like an asshole (through some almost toxic masculinity-leaning remarks and actions) in order to manufacture a third act breakup that felt a bit forced for the sake of the trope rather than feeling necessary or natural in the storyline that had been built up until that point. I'm not saying that there's no way a third act breakup could have worked here if that's what the author wanted, but I personally felt that the way that it did didn't really feel like it fit with the vision of Derek that the whole book had given me up to that point.
All of those are very personal things that I could very well be the only one bothered by. And any one of them on their own wouldn't have caused any real issues for me. But the combination of all three just left large portions of this book feeling long and drawn out for me, and like I was just reading in order to get through until the next, sweeter parts.
Overall I didn't love or hate this book, it just ended up being okay for me. I wouldn't have any trouble recommending it to friends or fellow readers if I knew that it fit tropes or a style that they were looking for, but I would probably first make brief mention of the issues that I had with it to make sure they wouldn't have the same struggles that I did.
My reviews and content can also be found on StoryGraph, on Instagram @Tackling_TBR, on TikTok @TacklingTBR, and on my blog tacklingtbr.home.blog.
TW: discussion of loss of parent (off page, prior to events)
{ 2.5 stars, rounded up to 3 }
There were a lot of things to really love about this book.
I really liked Elizabeth as our FMC - I mean, a sweet single mom who goes to the mat for her friends and family? What's not to love?
I thought it was SO SWEET that Derek turned out to have a connection to Elizabeth's past. Truly is there anything sweeter than a second chance romance or a childhood crush coming back into your life?
I also really loved reading the parts about Elizabeth helping Derek to turn things around for his hardware store.
A storyline about two characters bringing their different expertise or passions together for a good cause or small business (think: the handsome local contractor helping rebuild the old inn that she just inherited from a distant relative) will almost always be an automatic win for me.
But all of that being said, there were also some things that made this a somewhat challenging read for me.
Among the tropes that I have a hard time with, or that I can only take in small doses before it starts to get to me a bit, are a miscommunication trope, a third act breakup (when it doesn't feel like it makes sense within the plot), and an extended friend zone. And this book had all three in spades.
While the concept of a friend zone in real life immediately annoys me (but that's a soap box for another day), I understand its place as a trope in romance books and media. It's an easy way to build up the tension of a slow burn and to explain away why a romance might be a bit slow to start without making a reader want to yell.
But everything in moderation. By the time these two characters finally talked to each other (hello, miscommunication trope) enough to take each other out of their mutual friend zoning my kindle told me that I was literally 46% of the way through the book. And this isn't exactly a short read, sitting at 312 pages.
It was just entirely too long for me, and by the time it was resolved with a single, simple conversation, I just sort of found myself rolling my eyes at the whole ordeal.
The other thing that made this a tough one for me has to do with the way Derek, our MMC, seemed to be made to act like an asshole (through some almost toxic masculinity-leaning remarks and actions) in order to manufacture a third act breakup that felt a bit forced for the sake of the trope rather than feeling necessary or natural in the storyline that had been built up until that point. I'm not saying that there's no way a third act breakup could have worked here if that's what the author wanted, but I personally felt that the way that it did didn't really feel like it fit with the vision of Derek that the whole book had given me up to that point.
All of those are very personal things that I could very well be the only one bothered by. And any one of them on their own wouldn't have caused any real issues for me. But the combination of all three just left large portions of this book feeling long and drawn out for me, and like I was just reading in order to get through until the next, sweeter parts.
Overall I didn't love or hate this book, it just ended up being okay for me. I wouldn't have any trouble recommending it to friends or fellow readers if I knew that it fit tropes or a style that they were looking for, but I would probably first make brief mention of the issues that I had with it to make sure they wouldn't have the same struggles that I did.
February 24, 2026
✨Book Review & Happy Publication Day to THEN YOU HAPPENED by J.S. Wood✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to @hambright_pr and @authorjswood for the gifted eARC. I’m thrilled to share my thoughts.
Then You Happened is book 5 in the Average Gents series, and from the first chapter Derek had me. There’s something so immediately endearing about him, open-hearted, earnest, and loyal. He falls hard for Elizabeth, a devoted single mom who wants nothing more than to give her daughter Aurora the most loving, happy, and stable childhood.
Derek and Elizabeth put themselves in the “friend-zone” separately. The reader knows they both feel it, both know it, but neither is brave enough to risk the friendship by saying it out loud.
What follows is a slow burn that simmers with longing, restraint, and those small, electric moments. Watching Derek and Elizabeth try to navigate friendship, parenthood, timing, fear, and desire felt achingly real. There is instant attraction and earned love. The kind the author doesn’t tell you about, but SHOWS you, has you FEEL, has you there in the story through each page.
What moved me most was the emotional honesty. These characters carry scars, responsibilities, and self-doubt. Yet through the messy, complicated, beautiful process of figuring each other out, they remain true to themselves.
2026 has been the year of unexpected romance gems for me, and this series wasn’t even on my radar. I applied for the eARC on a whim, not knowing what to expect. An unfamiliar series and an author that was new to me has grabbed my attention.
Some love stories are instant, filled with bright fire and passion. This one burns with a soft glow. This story slowly pulled me in and took hold. Derek and Elizabeth are characters I wish I could meet for wine and life updates. They feel real enough to miss when you finish the book. That is how I know it is something special.
One thing is certain. I will be reading the rest of this series, counting down to book 6 coming this summer.
TROPES ✨
👩👧 Single Parent
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
🙋♂️ He Falls First
✋ Friend Zoned
👨👩👦👦 Found Family
🦮 Golden Retriever MMC
❤️ Friends to Lovers
#HPRTheYouHappened
#JSWood
#HambrightPR
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to @hambright_pr and @authorjswood for the gifted eARC. I’m thrilled to share my thoughts.
Then You Happened is book 5 in the Average Gents series, and from the first chapter Derek had me. There’s something so immediately endearing about him, open-hearted, earnest, and loyal. He falls hard for Elizabeth, a devoted single mom who wants nothing more than to give her daughter Aurora the most loving, happy, and stable childhood.
Derek and Elizabeth put themselves in the “friend-zone” separately. The reader knows they both feel it, both know it, but neither is brave enough to risk the friendship by saying it out loud.
What follows is a slow burn that simmers with longing, restraint, and those small, electric moments. Watching Derek and Elizabeth try to navigate friendship, parenthood, timing, fear, and desire felt achingly real. There is instant attraction and earned love. The kind the author doesn’t tell you about, but SHOWS you, has you FEEL, has you there in the story through each page.
What moved me most was the emotional honesty. These characters carry scars, responsibilities, and self-doubt. Yet through the messy, complicated, beautiful process of figuring each other out, they remain true to themselves.
2026 has been the year of unexpected romance gems for me, and this series wasn’t even on my radar. I applied for the eARC on a whim, not knowing what to expect. An unfamiliar series and an author that was new to me has grabbed my attention.
Some love stories are instant, filled with bright fire and passion. This one burns with a soft glow. This story slowly pulled me in and took hold. Derek and Elizabeth are characters I wish I could meet for wine and life updates. They feel real enough to miss when you finish the book. That is how I know it is something special.
One thing is certain. I will be reading the rest of this series, counting down to book 6 coming this summer.
TROPES ✨
👩👧 Single Parent
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
🙋♂️ He Falls First
✋ Friend Zoned
👨👩👦👦 Found Family
🦮 Golden Retriever MMC
❤️ Friends to Lovers
#HPRTheYouHappened
#JSWood
#HambrightPR
February 27, 2026
Then You Happened, the fifth installment in the Average Gents series, completely won me over from the very first chapter—especially because of Derek. There’s something instantly lovable about him: kind, sincere, and deeply loyal. He falls fast for Elizabeth, a devoted single mother whose greatest wish is to give her daughter, Aurora, a safe, joyful, and loving childhood.
Both Derek and Elizabeth quietly place themselves in the “just friends” category. As readers, we can clearly see the feelings are mutual, but neither of them has the courage to risk what they already have by admitting it.
What unfolds is a slow-burn romance full of yearning, hesitation, and those subtle, heart-stopping moments. Watching them balance friendship, parenting, timing, fear, and attraction felt painfully genuine. Their connection is immediate, but their love is earned—the kind the author doesn’t simply describe, but makes you experience. You don’t just read it; you feel it.
What touched me most was the emotional transparency of the story. These characters carry past wounds, responsibilities, and insecurities, yet as they work through the complicated and beautiful process of discovering each other, they stay true to who they are.
2026 has unexpectedly become a year of romance gems for me, and this series wasn’t even on my radar. I requested the eARC on impulse, unsure of what I would find. A new-to-me author and an unfamiliar series ended up completely capturing my attention.
Some love stories ignite instantly with fiery passion. This one glows steadily and quietly. It drew me in little by little until it had a firm hold on my heart. Derek and Elizabeth feel like the kind of characters you’d want to meet for wine and life updates—and the kind you miss once their story ends. That’s how I know this one is special.
One thing is certain: I’ll be continuing this series and counting down the days until book six arrives later this summer.
Both Derek and Elizabeth quietly place themselves in the “just friends” category. As readers, we can clearly see the feelings are mutual, but neither of them has the courage to risk what they already have by admitting it.
What unfolds is a slow-burn romance full of yearning, hesitation, and those subtle, heart-stopping moments. Watching them balance friendship, parenting, timing, fear, and attraction felt painfully genuine. Their connection is immediate, but their love is earned—the kind the author doesn’t simply describe, but makes you experience. You don’t just read it; you feel it.
What touched me most was the emotional transparency of the story. These characters carry past wounds, responsibilities, and insecurities, yet as they work through the complicated and beautiful process of discovering each other, they stay true to who they are.
2026 has unexpectedly become a year of romance gems for me, and this series wasn’t even on my radar. I requested the eARC on impulse, unsure of what I would find. A new-to-me author and an unfamiliar series ended up completely capturing my attention.
Some love stories ignite instantly with fiery passion. This one glows steadily and quietly. It drew me in little by little until it had a firm hold on my heart. Derek and Elizabeth feel like the kind of characters you’d want to meet for wine and life updates—and the kind you miss once their story ends. That’s how I know this one is special.
One thing is certain: I’ll be continuing this series and counting down the days until book six arrives later this summer.
March 1, 2026
Derek loves love. He’s hopeful and absolutely committed to finding his person. His mates reckon he’s a bit too invested, so he swears off dating altogether… which is obviously the exact moment Birdie waltzes into his world.
Birdie is a single mum who’s been stuck in survival mode for years. She’s doing everything she can to protect the life she’s built for herself and her daughter, Rora. You can feel how badly she wants something bigger, something softer but she won’t gamble her daughter’s security for it.
Both Derek and Birdie quietly put themselves into the “just friends” basket, even though it’s glaringly obvious they want more. Neither of them is brave enough to risk what they’ve got by saying it out loud.
Derek’s been trying to keep his late dad’s hardware store afloat and the pressure on him feels very real. When Birdie brings her marketing know-how to the table, it gives them a genuine reason to spend time together — late nights making plans to bring in new customers. It makes the friends-to-lovers slow burn feel organic and earned. You can see the shift happening before they do, and when they finally stop mucking about and lean into their feelings? Proper sparks. And once Rora has Derek wrapped around her little finger, there’s no hope for the poor guy. Watching Derek slowly fall not just for Birdie but for Rora too was really sweet.
Derek and Birdie’s connection feels grounded and real. Their journey from friends to something more is layered with honest conversations, second chances and healing. They both learn to accept support and to realise that real love isn’t about grand gestures it’s about showing up for each other, every single day. I also loved the tight-knit friend group, the growth on both sides, and that gentle reminder that sometimes love rocks up before we think we’re ready for it.
If you’re into slow burns, single mum rep, found family feels and a hero who falls first (and hard), this one’s a winner.
Birdie is a single mum who’s been stuck in survival mode for years. She’s doing everything she can to protect the life she’s built for herself and her daughter, Rora. You can feel how badly she wants something bigger, something softer but she won’t gamble her daughter’s security for it.
Both Derek and Birdie quietly put themselves into the “just friends” basket, even though it’s glaringly obvious they want more. Neither of them is brave enough to risk what they’ve got by saying it out loud.
Derek’s been trying to keep his late dad’s hardware store afloat and the pressure on him feels very real. When Birdie brings her marketing know-how to the table, it gives them a genuine reason to spend time together — late nights making plans to bring in new customers. It makes the friends-to-lovers slow burn feel organic and earned. You can see the shift happening before they do, and when they finally stop mucking about and lean into their feelings? Proper sparks. And once Rora has Derek wrapped around her little finger, there’s no hope for the poor guy. Watching Derek slowly fall not just for Birdie but for Rora too was really sweet.
Derek and Birdie’s connection feels grounded and real. Their journey from friends to something more is layered with honest conversations, second chances and healing. They both learn to accept support and to realise that real love isn’t about grand gestures it’s about showing up for each other, every single day. I also loved the tight-knit friend group, the growth on both sides, and that gentle reminder that sometimes love rocks up before we think we’re ready for it.
If you’re into slow burns, single mum rep, found family feels and a hero who falls first (and hard), this one’s a winner.
February 24, 2026
✨✨Book Review: Then You Happened
✨✨Author: J.S. Wood
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 (4.5/5)
✨✨Tropes: Friend Zoned, He Falls Free, Golden Retriever MC, Single Parent, Found Family, Slow Burn
✨✨Emotions: Love, Healing, Vulnerability, Support, Acceptance
✨✨The Setup:✨✨
Derek is one of the last single guys in his group, not because he doesn’t try, but maybe because he’s so open with his feelings. After getting teased for falling in love too quickly, he decides to avoid romance for a while. Then he meets Elizabeth, a single mom who puts her daughter first. Even though she wants to focus on her family, she can’t ignore the spark with Derek. Elizabeth tries to show she’s interested, but Derek keeps things just friends. As they get closer, it’s obvious they both have feelings, and someone will have to take a chance if they want more than friendship.
✨✨What I Loved:✨✨
J.S. Wood tells a story that really pulls at your emotions. I didn’t expect to get so emotional, but I teared up more than once. Derek is the classic good guy— caring, dependable, and putting others before himself. The connection between Derek and Elizabeth feels real, and their slow journey from friends to something more is full of honest moments, gentle humor, and growth. Both of them learn to trust, accept help, and see that real love is about supporting each other.
✨✨Final Verdict:✨✨
I was surprised to find out that “Then You Happened” is actually the fifth book in the Average Gents Series. Now I’m excited to read about the other couples too. The side characters bring a lot of warmth and humor, making the story’s world feel real. J.S. Wood is now on my must-read list, and I can’t wait to check out more of their heartfelt books.
✨✨Acknowledgment:✨✨
Thank you to Hambrigh and J.S. Wood for letting me read and review this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
✨✨Author: J.S. Wood
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 (4.5/5)
✨✨Tropes: Friend Zoned, He Falls Free, Golden Retriever MC, Single Parent, Found Family, Slow Burn
✨✨Emotions: Love, Healing, Vulnerability, Support, Acceptance
✨✨The Setup:✨✨
Derek is one of the last single guys in his group, not because he doesn’t try, but maybe because he’s so open with his feelings. After getting teased for falling in love too quickly, he decides to avoid romance for a while. Then he meets Elizabeth, a single mom who puts her daughter first. Even though she wants to focus on her family, she can’t ignore the spark with Derek. Elizabeth tries to show she’s interested, but Derek keeps things just friends. As they get closer, it’s obvious they both have feelings, and someone will have to take a chance if they want more than friendship.
✨✨What I Loved:✨✨
J.S. Wood tells a story that really pulls at your emotions. I didn’t expect to get so emotional, but I teared up more than once. Derek is the classic good guy— caring, dependable, and putting others before himself. The connection between Derek and Elizabeth feels real, and their slow journey from friends to something more is full of honest moments, gentle humor, and growth. Both of them learn to trust, accept help, and see that real love is about supporting each other.
✨✨Final Verdict:✨✨
I was surprised to find out that “Then You Happened” is actually the fifth book in the Average Gents Series. Now I’m excited to read about the other couples too. The side characters bring a lot of warmth and humor, making the story’s world feel real. J.S. Wood is now on my must-read list, and I can’t wait to check out more of their heartfelt books.
✨✨Acknowledgment:✨✨
Thank you to Hambrigh and J.S. Wood for letting me read and review this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.
March 7, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
* Single mom
* Slow burn
* He falls first
* Found family
* Golden retriever MMC
* Friends to lovers
Thank you to Hambright and J.S. Wood for this eARC!
This was an enjoyable romance with some of my favorite tropes! The first two chapters were written well and caught my interest as it’s clear both Derek and Elizabeth mirror each other. They both feel unsure of their futures, they both feel a lot about things, and they both want to find someone they can share their lives with. It’s a great setup to start it off with a wedding of their two friends, and shows how quickly they catch each other’s attention.
But it becomes a unique kind of romance when he keeps messing up all the signs, and instead helps with her daughter instead (who’s so adorable!) I actually thought this was a great way for him to get to know them both and how their friendship really grows into more because she knows she can trust him with her heart and her daughter. I appreciated how the author keeps you rooting for them as each little look or laugh develops into more for them.
When they realize they actually know each other long ago, I swooned. This book definitely hits me in the soulmate feels with how playful and sweet their chemistry is 🥰 Once they really admit how they feel, the sparks truly fly, and I LOVED their first kiss! Derek is truly a dream MMC: a passionate lover, a caring and emotionally in-tune man who cares deeply and will help with all the small and big things in life.
The challenges they face are so realistic and relatable. Both are big fixers and helpers, and it’s hard to let each other do that for one another until they accept how much better it is when they do it together. I truly loved their HEA and how their love really shines with so much joy!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
* Single mom
* Slow burn
* He falls first
* Found family
* Golden retriever MMC
* Friends to lovers
Thank you to Hambright and J.S. Wood for this eARC!
This was an enjoyable romance with some of my favorite tropes! The first two chapters were written well and caught my interest as it’s clear both Derek and Elizabeth mirror each other. They both feel unsure of their futures, they both feel a lot about things, and they both want to find someone they can share their lives with. It’s a great setup to start it off with a wedding of their two friends, and shows how quickly they catch each other’s attention.
But it becomes a unique kind of romance when he keeps messing up all the signs, and instead helps with her daughter instead (who’s so adorable!) I actually thought this was a great way for him to get to know them both and how their friendship really grows into more because she knows she can trust him with her heart and her daughter. I appreciated how the author keeps you rooting for them as each little look or laugh develops into more for them.
When they realize they actually know each other long ago, I swooned. This book definitely hits me in the soulmate feels with how playful and sweet their chemistry is 🥰 Once they really admit how they feel, the sparks truly fly, and I LOVED their first kiss! Derek is truly a dream MMC: a passionate lover, a caring and emotionally in-tune man who cares deeply and will help with all the small and big things in life.
The challenges they face are so realistic and relatable. Both are big fixers and helpers, and it’s hard to let each other do that for one another until they accept how much better it is when they do it together. I truly loved their HEA and how their love really shines with so much joy!
February 12, 2026
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
We all just want to be loved, right? What’s so wrong with wanting to find your person? And why do our friends like to give us such a hard time??
Then You Happened focuses on Derek and Elizabeth, two incredibly kind, caring and overall happy people. They’ve both been through some hardships but have not let it dampen their spirits or keep them from enjoying life. Derek lost his father, his only family, while he was away in the military and now is struggling to keep their hardware store afloat amidst all the debt leftover from his father’s medical bills. Elizabeth fell in love but was then left to fend for herself when she became pregnant, thrusting her into the life of a single mom. Derek is known for being a serial dater.. not to get laid but because he loves love and wants his own HEA. At his best friend’s wedding, he sees “the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen” and quickly falls in love. But his friends give him a hard time saying he can never be alone so he vows to stay single. But that’s hard when they start to spend time together and he realizes how amazing her and her daughter are.
This book was absolutely adorable. I feel like every other page I was saying “Aww” out loud. I found myself smiling at my kindle and giggling at all the cute moments. Elizabeth and Derek are so incredibly sweet and you just want to root for their mutual happiness. Now, I’m not going to lie.. I hate third act breakups.. they stress me out and can be very unnecessary, but only because you fall in love with the characters and just want them to be happy! Watching them get in their own way makes me 😡. That being said, I really liked this book and definitely recommend it. I already want to reread it!
Spice: 🌶️
We all just want to be loved, right? What’s so wrong with wanting to find your person? And why do our friends like to give us such a hard time??
Then You Happened focuses on Derek and Elizabeth, two incredibly kind, caring and overall happy people. They’ve both been through some hardships but have not let it dampen their spirits or keep them from enjoying life. Derek lost his father, his only family, while he was away in the military and now is struggling to keep their hardware store afloat amidst all the debt leftover from his father’s medical bills. Elizabeth fell in love but was then left to fend for herself when she became pregnant, thrusting her into the life of a single mom. Derek is known for being a serial dater.. not to get laid but because he loves love and wants his own HEA. At his best friend’s wedding, he sees “the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen” and quickly falls in love. But his friends give him a hard time saying he can never be alone so he vows to stay single. But that’s hard when they start to spend time together and he realizes how amazing her and her daughter are.
This book was absolutely adorable. I feel like every other page I was saying “Aww” out loud. I found myself smiling at my kindle and giggling at all the cute moments. Elizabeth and Derek are so incredibly sweet and you just want to root for their mutual happiness. Now, I’m not going to lie.. I hate third act breakups.. they stress me out and can be very unnecessary, but only because you fall in love with the characters and just want them to be happy! Watching them get in their own way makes me 😡. That being said, I really liked this book and definitely recommend it. I already want to reread it!
February 12, 2026
🩷 Blurb-
After finding out his friends find his nonstop quest for love to be a little excessive. Derek has decided to put a stop to dating altogether.
Now, he's stuck in a no-go zone just in time for someone new to enter the friend group.
Elizabeth is a single mom who has been out of the dating pool for a long time, but when she meets Derek, the sweet and caring friend of a friend, she thinks things are about to change.
When things don’t go quite as she expects, she accepts his friendship and begins a journey to help him reinvent his father’s failing hardware store to keep the legacy alive.
Spending hours together working, they begin to see that their feelings are not so easily brushed aside and when push comes to shove, their friendship blossoms into a romance they’ll never forget.
But when things get hard for the hardware store, and real life starts to butt in to their relationship, they have to decide if they can weather the storm, or if things will end for good.
❤️ Review -
I have enjoyed other books by the author and Then You Happened certainly didn't disappoint. Even though it's part of a series it can be read as a standalone. From the very first page I was hooked and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. The story was beautifully written, had good pacing and a great cast of characters. I loved Derek and Elizabeth's chemistry and I wanted them to have the happy ending that they deserved. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Hambright PR and the author J.S Wood for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
After finding out his friends find his nonstop quest for love to be a little excessive. Derek has decided to put a stop to dating altogether.
Now, he's stuck in a no-go zone just in time for someone new to enter the friend group.
Elizabeth is a single mom who has been out of the dating pool for a long time, but when she meets Derek, the sweet and caring friend of a friend, she thinks things are about to change.
When things don’t go quite as she expects, she accepts his friendship and begins a journey to help him reinvent his father’s failing hardware store to keep the legacy alive.
Spending hours together working, they begin to see that their feelings are not so easily brushed aside and when push comes to shove, their friendship blossoms into a romance they’ll never forget.
But when things get hard for the hardware store, and real life starts to butt in to their relationship, they have to decide if they can weather the storm, or if things will end for good.
❤️ Review -
I have enjoyed other books by the author and Then You Happened certainly didn't disappoint. Even though it's part of a series it can be read as a standalone. From the very first page I was hooked and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. The story was beautifully written, had good pacing and a great cast of characters. I loved Derek and Elizabeth's chemistry and I wanted them to have the happy ending that they deserved. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Hambright PR and the author J.S Wood for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2026
THEN YOU HAPPENED by J S WOOD ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Then You Happened is the fifth (#5) book in the AVERAGE GENTS series
Suffering his friend’s incessant teasing Derek Fowler decides to swear off dating, just in time to meet the woman of his dreams at his best friend’s wedding. Single mum Elizabeth, thinks Derek is incredibly attractive but can’t understand why he has friend zoned her.
As Derek spends more time with Elizabeth and her daughter, so their feelings and relationship grows but after a misunderstanding over Derek’s hardware store, they find themselves fighting to recover their relationship. Can love conquer?….
———————————
This was my first book by JS Wood. It is a super sweet romance, like extremely sweet. Although this is the fifth book in the series you certainly don’t have to have read any other book in the series to thoroughly enjoy this book. It is an interconnected standalone read.
Derek is a real cinnamon roll hero. He can’t do enough for Elizabeth or his friends. At times it feels a bit excessive, no one can be that perfect!!
Elizabeth is a great single mum, struggling to give her daughter the perfect life.
There are some great side characters, including Hattie (Elizabeth’s sister) and Dereks extended group of friends.
There are open door spicy scenes but not a lot and they are very subtle, tastefully done and in keeping with the progression of their relationship.
I read an ebook copy, with just over 300 pages, a cute couples cover and good editing.
With thanks to JS Wood and Hambright PR for an early read of this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🌺 Friends to Lovers
🌺 Single Parent
🌺 Spicy 🔥
🌺 Slow Burn
Then You Happened is the fifth (#5) book in the AVERAGE GENTS series
Suffering his friend’s incessant teasing Derek Fowler decides to swear off dating, just in time to meet the woman of his dreams at his best friend’s wedding. Single mum Elizabeth, thinks Derek is incredibly attractive but can’t understand why he has friend zoned her.
As Derek spends more time with Elizabeth and her daughter, so their feelings and relationship grows but after a misunderstanding over Derek’s hardware store, they find themselves fighting to recover their relationship. Can love conquer?….
———————————
This was my first book by JS Wood. It is a super sweet romance, like extremely sweet. Although this is the fifth book in the series you certainly don’t have to have read any other book in the series to thoroughly enjoy this book. It is an interconnected standalone read.
Derek is a real cinnamon roll hero. He can’t do enough for Elizabeth or his friends. At times it feels a bit excessive, no one can be that perfect!!
Elizabeth is a great single mum, struggling to give her daughter the perfect life.
There are some great side characters, including Hattie (Elizabeth’s sister) and Dereks extended group of friends.
There are open door spicy scenes but not a lot and they are very subtle, tastefully done and in keeping with the progression of their relationship.
I read an ebook copy, with just over 300 pages, a cute couples cover and good editing.
With thanks to JS Wood and Hambright PR for an early read of this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
🌺 Friends to Lovers
🌺 Single Parent
🌺 Spicy 🔥
🌺 Slow Burn
April 9, 2026
3.8 ⭐️
This book is such a cozy, warm, and sweet romance. It’s a slow-burn story that builds at its own pace without rushing anything, which made the relationship feel realistic like watching two mature adults slowly grow into a meaningful relationship.
Elizabeth is a single mother to Rora. She’s devoted, loving, and a strong independent FMC who has been out of the dating world for a long time.
Derek is such a golden-retriever MMC , honestly I liked his character a lot. He wants a serious and meaningful relationship, but because of a pact with his friends to stop casually dating, he somehow ends up getting friend-zoned by Elizabeth, even though he clearly likes her. Poor Derek 😄
As they spend more time together, their friendship gradually turns into something deeper. Watching that transition from friendship to love was really sweet.
I also loved Derek’s friend group they have such a fun, supportive, found-family dynamic that adds warmth to the story.
But my absolute favorite part of the book was Derek’s relationship with Rora. Their bond is incredibly cute and heartwarming, and those moments were some of my favorites to read.
The only thing that didn’t work for me was the third-act breakup. It felt a bit unnecessary and slightly stretched out. I found myself a little frustrated with Elizabeth, because the conflict seemed like it could have been resolved more quickly instead of turning into a breakup kind of moment.
Overall, this is a sweet and emotional romance with relatable characters. If you enjoy calm love stories, slow-burn relationships, and heartwarming family moments, you’ll enjoy this one.
This book is such a cozy, warm, and sweet romance. It’s a slow-burn story that builds at its own pace without rushing anything, which made the relationship feel realistic like watching two mature adults slowly grow into a meaningful relationship.
Elizabeth is a single mother to Rora. She’s devoted, loving, and a strong independent FMC who has been out of the dating world for a long time.
Derek is such a golden-retriever MMC , honestly I liked his character a lot. He wants a serious and meaningful relationship, but because of a pact with his friends to stop casually dating, he somehow ends up getting friend-zoned by Elizabeth, even though he clearly likes her. Poor Derek 😄
As they spend more time together, their friendship gradually turns into something deeper. Watching that transition from friendship to love was really sweet.
I also loved Derek’s friend group they have such a fun, supportive, found-family dynamic that adds warmth to the story.
But my absolute favorite part of the book was Derek’s relationship with Rora. Their bond is incredibly cute and heartwarming, and those moments were some of my favorites to read.
The only thing that didn’t work for me was the third-act breakup. It felt a bit unnecessary and slightly stretched out. I found myself a little frustrated with Elizabeth, because the conflict seemed like it could have been resolved more quickly instead of turning into a breakup kind of moment.
Overall, this is a sweet and emotional romance with relatable characters. If you enjoy calm love stories, slow-burn relationships, and heartwarming family moments, you’ll enjoy this one.
February 19, 2026
Then You Happened is one of those romances that’s sweet without ever tipping into cheesy, full of warmth, heart, and two characters you can’t help but root for.
Derek is that rare MMC who genuinely loves love, earnest, hopeful, and just wanting to find his person. His friends think he’s too committed to the cause, so he swears off dating…which, of course, is exactly when Elizabeth walks into his life. The timing is messy, perfect, and irresistible.
Elizabeth, a single mom who’s been in survival mode for years, is hopeful but cautious. You can feel how much she wants something more while still protecting the stability she’s built for herself and her daughter. Watching Derek fall for both of them absolutely melted me.
Derek’s trying to keep his late father’s business afloat, and it adds real emotional weight. Elizabeth stepping in to help gives them all these wonderful moments, late nights, shared frustrations, small victories that make their slow-burning romance feel natural and earned. You can see their feelings shift long before they dare to say it out loud, and when they finally do, it’s just…right.
The themes of healing, second chances, and found family are woven beautifully throughout. The characters feel real, their chemistry builds at a perfect pace, and the emotional beats land with sincerity. I loved the friend group, the glimpses of vulnerability, the growth on both sides, and the reminder that love often shows up before we think we’re ready.
Thank you to Hambright PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Derek is that rare MMC who genuinely loves love, earnest, hopeful, and just wanting to find his person. His friends think he’s too committed to the cause, so he swears off dating…which, of course, is exactly when Elizabeth walks into his life. The timing is messy, perfect, and irresistible.
Elizabeth, a single mom who’s been in survival mode for years, is hopeful but cautious. You can feel how much she wants something more while still protecting the stability she’s built for herself and her daughter. Watching Derek fall for both of them absolutely melted me.
Derek’s trying to keep his late father’s business afloat, and it adds real emotional weight. Elizabeth stepping in to help gives them all these wonderful moments, late nights, shared frustrations, small victories that make their slow-burning romance feel natural and earned. You can see their feelings shift long before they dare to say it out loud, and when they finally do, it’s just…right.
The themes of healing, second chances, and found family are woven beautifully throughout. The characters feel real, their chemistry builds at a perfect pace, and the emotional beats land with sincerity. I loved the friend group, the glimpses of vulnerability, the growth on both sides, and the reminder that love often shows up before we think we’re ready.
Thank you to Hambright PR for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 19, 2026
This was such a cute read!
Derek is that guy who genuinely just wants to be in love and not in a cringey way. He just believes in finding his person. Unfortunately, his friends think he’s a little too committed to the cause, so he dramatically decides he’s done dating. Obviously, that’s when Elizabeth shows up. The timing couldn't be worse or better. Elizabeth is a single mom who’s been in survival mode for a long time. Dating hasn’t exactly been a priority. I liked that she’s hopeful but cautious when it comes to men. You can feel that she wants something more, but she’s not about to risk her stability for it. And seeing Derek slowly fall for not just her, but also her daughter completely melted my heart.
I loved the hardware store storyline. Derek is trying to keep his late father’s business afloat, and it’s stressful for him. Elizabeth stepping in to help gives them a reason to spend real time together with the late nights working, small wins, and shared frustrations. It all makes the slow build of their friends-to-lovers situation grow in such a lovely way. You can see the shift happening before they fully admit it to themselves, and when they finally do, it just feels right.
It’s sweet without being cheesy and just a plain good read. If you like the single mom rep, found family vibes, and an MMC who genuinely loves love, this is such a cozy, feel-good read!
Derek is that guy who genuinely just wants to be in love and not in a cringey way. He just believes in finding his person. Unfortunately, his friends think he’s a little too committed to the cause, so he dramatically decides he’s done dating. Obviously, that’s when Elizabeth shows up. The timing couldn't be worse or better. Elizabeth is a single mom who’s been in survival mode for a long time. Dating hasn’t exactly been a priority. I liked that she’s hopeful but cautious when it comes to men. You can feel that she wants something more, but she’s not about to risk her stability for it. And seeing Derek slowly fall for not just her, but also her daughter completely melted my heart.
I loved the hardware store storyline. Derek is trying to keep his late father’s business afloat, and it’s stressful for him. Elizabeth stepping in to help gives them a reason to spend real time together with the late nights working, small wins, and shared frustrations. It all makes the slow build of their friends-to-lovers situation grow in such a lovely way. You can see the shift happening before they fully admit it to themselves, and when they finally do, it just feels right.
It’s sweet without being cheesy and just a plain good read. If you like the single mom rep, found family vibes, and an MMC who genuinely loves love, this is such a cozy, feel-good read!
March 1, 2026
I struggled a little bit at the beginning of this story bc it's the fifth book in a series & it felt like a lot of established story happening that I had no reference for. But I was intrigued by Derek & Elizabeth's story, so I dove in! And I did love Derek, Elizabeth, and Rora right from the first meeting. 😁
Once I got past the initial overwhelm, I was sucked into the story. I enjoyed the friend group & the fact that Derek is very emotional & affectionat with everyone. Derek is such a sweetie! He & Rora become bffs almost immediately & seeing them together is adorable! There was an initial hiccup with Elizabeth - Derek accidentally puts himself in the "friend zone" when he offers to babysit Rora. Elizabeth utilizes this offer to go on a date with a co-worker - thankfully, just one, and it obviously doesn't work out!
The rest of the story was enjoyable & fun, Derek spending time with his girls, and finally establishing with Elizabeth that he does want to date her! I loved their getting to know each other & spending time building a lil family unit, really. Also enjoyed Elizabeth's relationship with her family. Her sister, Hattie, is a riot sometimes.
There are connections they discover which are really sweet, too! The way they both fold into each other's lives & familes is fun. Very swoony! And every way they're there for each other... ❤️
😍😍😍
Once I got past the initial overwhelm, I was sucked into the story. I enjoyed the friend group & the fact that Derek is very emotional & affectionat with everyone. Derek is such a sweetie! He & Rora become bffs almost immediately & seeing them together is adorable! There was an initial hiccup with Elizabeth - Derek accidentally puts himself in the "friend zone" when he offers to babysit Rora. Elizabeth utilizes this offer to go on a date with a co-worker - thankfully, just one, and it obviously doesn't work out!
The rest of the story was enjoyable & fun, Derek spending time with his girls, and finally establishing with Elizabeth that he does want to date her! I loved their getting to know each other & spending time building a lil family unit, really. Also enjoyed Elizabeth's relationship with her family. Her sister, Hattie, is a riot sometimes.
There are connections they discover which are really sweet, too! The way they both fold into each other's lives & familes is fun. Very swoony! And every way they're there for each other... ❤️
😍😍😍
February 23, 2026
If this book were any more wholesome it would start handing out soup and emotional stability.
Derick is a genuinely good man. Kind, humble, emotionally mature, and fully aware that love isn’t just about wanting it but about showing up and giving it back. The ultimate green flag in human form.
Elizabeth is a single mom navigating life with cautious optimism. She isn’t chasing romance or fairy tales. What she accepts instead is something quieter and arguably more meaningful: a sincere, heartfelt friendship with Derick.
The transition from friends to lovers is beautifully handled. Their time in close proximity doesn’t rush or force anything. It allows their bond to deepen naturally, tethered by consistency, care, and emotional safety.
The found family element adds another layer of warmth, wrapping the entire story in comfort and belonging. This is the kind of book that doesn’t spike your blood pressure or leave you emotionally wrecked. It just makes your heart feel full.
A genuinely feel-good read that reminds you not all love stories need chaos to be compelling. Some just need kindness, patience, and two people choosing each other gently.
TROPES ✨
👩👧 Single Parent
❤️🔥Slow Burn
🙋♂️He Falls First
✋Friend Zoned
👨👩👦👦 Found Family
🦮 Golden Retriever MC
❤️ Friends To Lovers
Derick is a genuinely good man. Kind, humble, emotionally mature, and fully aware that love isn’t just about wanting it but about showing up and giving it back. The ultimate green flag in human form.
Elizabeth is a single mom navigating life with cautious optimism. She isn’t chasing romance or fairy tales. What she accepts instead is something quieter and arguably more meaningful: a sincere, heartfelt friendship with Derick.
The transition from friends to lovers is beautifully handled. Their time in close proximity doesn’t rush or force anything. It allows their bond to deepen naturally, tethered by consistency, care, and emotional safety.
The found family element adds another layer of warmth, wrapping the entire story in comfort and belonging. This is the kind of book that doesn’t spike your blood pressure or leave you emotionally wrecked. It just makes your heart feel full.
A genuinely feel-good read that reminds you not all love stories need chaos to be compelling. Some just need kindness, patience, and two people choosing each other gently.
TROPES ✨
👩👧 Single Parent
❤️🔥Slow Burn
🙋♂️He Falls First
✋Friend Zoned
👨👩👦👦 Found Family
🦮 Golden Retriever MC
❤️ Friends To Lovers
March 5, 2026
4 ⭐️
👩👧 Single Parent
❤️🔥Slow Burn
🙋♂️He Falls First
✋ Friend Zoned
👨👩👦👦 Found Family
🦮 Golden Retriever MC
❤️ Friends to Lovers
Then You Happened by J.S. Wood is a heartfelt friends-to-lovers romance that blends emotional vulnerability,and just the right amount of slow burn tension.
From the start, the chemistry between Derek and Elizabeth is undeniable, but this story takes its time letting their relationship grow naturally. Derek gives off major Golden Retriever energy, but that same sweetness also leads him to unintentionally friend zoning himself. Watching him fall first and navigate his feelings while trying to respect Elizabeth’s life and responsibilities adds an extra layer of charm and emotional depth.
Elizabeth shines as a devoted single mother to her daughter, Rora. Her dedication to protecting and prioritizing her daughter makes her choices and hesitations throughout the story understandable and relatable.
I appreciated the balance of heavier themes with lighthearted dialogue and sweet interactions that keep the narrative engaging.
If you love friends to lovers stories with a single parent heroine, found family vibes, and a softhearted hero who falls first, this one is definitely worth picking up. I highly recommend!
👩👧 Single Parent
❤️🔥Slow Burn
🙋♂️He Falls First
✋ Friend Zoned
👨👩👦👦 Found Family
🦮 Golden Retriever MC
❤️ Friends to Lovers
Then You Happened by J.S. Wood is a heartfelt friends-to-lovers romance that blends emotional vulnerability,and just the right amount of slow burn tension.
From the start, the chemistry between Derek and Elizabeth is undeniable, but this story takes its time letting their relationship grow naturally. Derek gives off major Golden Retriever energy, but that same sweetness also leads him to unintentionally friend zoning himself. Watching him fall first and navigate his feelings while trying to respect Elizabeth’s life and responsibilities adds an extra layer of charm and emotional depth.
Elizabeth shines as a devoted single mother to her daughter, Rora. Her dedication to protecting and prioritizing her daughter makes her choices and hesitations throughout the story understandable and relatable.
I appreciated the balance of heavier themes with lighthearted dialogue and sweet interactions that keep the narrative engaging.
If you love friends to lovers stories with a single parent heroine, found family vibes, and a softhearted hero who falls first, this one is definitely worth picking up. I highly recommend!
March 10, 2026
ARC Review of Then You Happened by J.S. Wood
Thank you to Hambright PR and J.S. Wood for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this.
I am such a sucker for a small town, he falls first romance! I loved that Derrick was sensitive and his friends accepted him for it. I also loved that despite not really having any biological family, he had surrounded himself with people who loved and supported him in every way possible. Elizabeth on the other hand had loads of biological family support, which helped her greatly as a single working mother.
Derrick is a hopeless romantic who has sworn off dating after another failed relationship...but isn't when you aren't looking that you find your soulmate??? Enter Elizabeth, single mom who he meets at a friends wedding. It turns out they share a friend circle but haven't run into each other before...or have they? Derrick runs his father's struggling hardware store left to him after his father passed, Elizabeth is in marketing. The perfect match. That is until things go wrong and threatens to ruin everything.
This book was adorable, well written and had a happily ever after. What more could you ask for?
Thank you to Hambright PR and J.S. Wood for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this.
I am such a sucker for a small town, he falls first romance! I loved that Derrick was sensitive and his friends accepted him for it. I also loved that despite not really having any biological family, he had surrounded himself with people who loved and supported him in every way possible. Elizabeth on the other hand had loads of biological family support, which helped her greatly as a single working mother.
Derrick is a hopeless romantic who has sworn off dating after another failed relationship...but isn't when you aren't looking that you find your soulmate??? Enter Elizabeth, single mom who he meets at a friends wedding. It turns out they share a friend circle but haven't run into each other before...or have they? Derrick runs his father's struggling hardware store left to him after his father passed, Elizabeth is in marketing. The perfect match. That is until things go wrong and threatens to ruin everything.
This book was adorable, well written and had a happily ever after. What more could you ask for?
February 24, 2026
The Average Gents series has been a joy to read. Each book is entertaining, sweet and does not disappoint. Then You Happened is the fifth book in this series and it is well written and the storyline had me smiling right from the start.
It was so easy to fall in love with Derek right off the start. I mean, who wouldn't want a man who loves big and treats you like a queen. Then we have Elizabeth, a single mum who deserves to be loved and who seems to have Derek's full attention. A bet keeps Derek away but time together, friends who make him see that she is dropping hints and her flirting has him changing his mind. When Rora melts his heart, he just can't stay away. When they finally decide to act upon their feelings, the chemistry they share is off the charts. Now their HEA was not an easy road to travel but they both grew individually and as a couple.
From cover to cover, this book had my full attention and I recommend picking up You Just Happened.
It was so easy to fall in love with Derek right off the start. I mean, who wouldn't want a man who loves big and treats you like a queen. Then we have Elizabeth, a single mum who deserves to be loved and who seems to have Derek's full attention. A bet keeps Derek away but time together, friends who make him see that she is dropping hints and her flirting has him changing his mind. When Rora melts his heart, he just can't stay away. When they finally decide to act upon their feelings, the chemistry they share is off the charts. Now their HEA was not an easy road to travel but they both grew individually and as a couple.
From cover to cover, this book had my full attention and I recommend picking up You Just Happened.
March 6, 2026
This book was the sweetest, most heartfelt romance I’ve read so far this year. When I picked it up, I honestly hadn’t expected to fall in love with it as deeply as I did.
From the very first chapter, I was instantly infatuated with Derek, the ultimate cinnamon roll love bug. He was honest, had a heart of gold, and was emotionally mature and thoughtful. He truly couldn’t have been more perfect. Despite swearing off dating and doing his best to stick to it, he ended up meeting Elizabeth. An equally kind hearted single mom whose daughter was her entire world. She built a beautiful life for herself and her daughter but still hoped for something more. Together, they navigated the friend zone while working side by side to save Derek’s family hardware store. Which of course only fueled the undeniable chemistry they kept pretending not to feel.
It was beauuuutifully written. The pacing was spot on, and the spice was developed in a way that felt natural and unhurried. It was completely earned and satisfying (in more ways than one 😉). The honesty in the emotional wounds and vulnerability they both carried had me tearing up and hugging my Kindle. I genuinely loved every moment of their growth. Even with the third act breakup, because yes………..there was one (cringe). I still found myself rooting for the happy ending I knew they would get.
Overall, it was a genuinely uplifting story that beautifully highlighted personal growth, new beginnings, and the enduring power of a family you choose for yourself. Everything about this book resonated with sincerity.
From the very first chapter, I was instantly infatuated with Derek, the ultimate cinnamon roll love bug. He was honest, had a heart of gold, and was emotionally mature and thoughtful. He truly couldn’t have been more perfect. Despite swearing off dating and doing his best to stick to it, he ended up meeting Elizabeth. An equally kind hearted single mom whose daughter was her entire world. She built a beautiful life for herself and her daughter but still hoped for something more. Together, they navigated the friend zone while working side by side to save Derek’s family hardware store. Which of course only fueled the undeniable chemistry they kept pretending not to feel.
It was beauuuutifully written. The pacing was spot on, and the spice was developed in a way that felt natural and unhurried. It was completely earned and satisfying (in more ways than one 😉). The honesty in the emotional wounds and vulnerability they both carried had me tearing up and hugging my Kindle. I genuinely loved every moment of their growth. Even with the third act breakup, because yes………..there was one (cringe). I still found myself rooting for the happy ending I knew they would get.
Overall, it was a genuinely uplifting story that beautifully highlighted personal growth, new beginnings, and the enduring power of a family you choose for yourself. Everything about this book resonated with sincerity.
February 24, 2026
Title: Then You Happen
Author : @authorjswood
Formal : Ebook
Book 5 in the Average Gents
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
TROPES ✨
Single Parent
Slow Burn
He Falls First Friend Zoned Found Family Golden Retriever MC Friends to Lovers
Then You Happened is the fifth book in the Average Gents series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone.
Derek is such a golden retriever MMC, you can’t help but love him right away.
Elizabeth is a single mother with the biggest heart. The found-family aspect in this book was so well done, and I absolutely love the author’s writing. The transition from friends to lovers felt natural and beautifully developed.
Derek and Elizabeth make such a great team that you’re rooting for them from the very start.
Thank you @authorjswood and @hambright_pr for the gifted ARC! 💕
Author : @authorjswood
Formal : Ebook
Book 5 in the Average Gents
Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
TROPES ✨
Single Parent
Slow Burn
He Falls First Friend Zoned Found Family Golden Retriever MC Friends to Lovers
Then You Happened is the fifth book in the Average Gents series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone.
Derek is such a golden retriever MMC, you can’t help but love him right away.
Elizabeth is a single mother with the biggest heart. The found-family aspect in this book was so well done, and I absolutely love the author’s writing. The transition from friends to lovers felt natural and beautifully developed.
Derek and Elizabeth make such a great team that you’re rooting for them from the very start.
Thank you @authorjswood and @hambright_pr for the gifted ARC! 💕
February 25, 2026
ARC Review ✨️
♡Derek & Elizabeth♡
Derek has put an end to his dating life after finding out his friends find his quest for love a little excessive. Unfortunately for him, it happened at the worst time because someone new is joining the friend group.
Enter Elizabeth, a single mom who's been out of the dating pool way too long. When her and Derek meet, she thinks it might just be her time to enter the dating field again. Things don't go as expected and they end up starting a friendship. Soon they realize the feelings might just not be so easy to ignore.
I loved the writing so much! Omg the characters were absolutely perfect and I adored the relationship that ending up forming!
Tropes:
💕Single parent
💕Slow burn
💕He falls first
💕Friend zoned
Thanks to the author and Hambright Pr for the early review copy!
♡Derek & Elizabeth♡
Derek has put an end to his dating life after finding out his friends find his quest for love a little excessive. Unfortunately for him, it happened at the worst time because someone new is joining the friend group.
Enter Elizabeth, a single mom who's been out of the dating pool way too long. When her and Derek meet, she thinks it might just be her time to enter the dating field again. Things don't go as expected and they end up starting a friendship. Soon they realize the feelings might just not be so easy to ignore.
I loved the writing so much! Omg the characters were absolutely perfect and I adored the relationship that ending up forming!
Tropes:
💕Single parent
💕Slow burn
💕He falls first
💕Friend zoned
Thanks to the author and Hambright Pr for the early review copy!
March 2, 2026
I’m addicted. This love story is everything. The female main character is a hard working, devoted single mom. The male main character is fighting to save his family’s hardware store, with an undenying love for kids. Both characters are extremely relatable, and huge green flags! The chemistry they had is unbeatable. Throughout the story their relationship is put to the test, I was kept on my toes rooting for the two of them. Rora is the cutest kid ever, and truly wingman’s for the two of them. (Seeing how well Derek is with her made my ovaries scream 🤣) The book is extremely well written, one of my favorite features is the quotes written at the top of each chapter! It’s duel POV so you get the thoughts and feelings of both characters- which are super relatable and funny! This is a 5/5 read and I would highly recommend! I’m so excited to read the rest of the series!
March 5, 2026
Derek is a serial dater, at least according to his friends. To him, he’s just looking for what they already found, their soulmates. So, he swears off dating.
Enter Elizabeth. Single mom, and best friend to Derek’s best friend’s new bride Quinn. A chance meeting at their wedding with initial sparks but zero follow through. Then Quinn invited her to game night. Where Derek offers up his services to babysit if she ever needs it. So, how will Derek get from there to getting a shot with her?
“You could say no to so many opportunities in life, but what happens if you say no to the one thing fate wants you to say yes to.”
I love so much the relationship Derek builds with Rora (Elizabeth’s daughter). He’s so good with her from the very first night that he babysits (And yes, he actually does babysit for her before they get together).
This was a sweet, slow burn, romance and I was here for it. I rated this one 4/5.
Enter Elizabeth. Single mom, and best friend to Derek’s best friend’s new bride Quinn. A chance meeting at their wedding with initial sparks but zero follow through. Then Quinn invited her to game night. Where Derek offers up his services to babysit if she ever needs it. So, how will Derek get from there to getting a shot with her?
“You could say no to so many opportunities in life, but what happens if you say no to the one thing fate wants you to say yes to.”
I love so much the relationship Derek builds with Rora (Elizabeth’s daughter). He’s so good with her from the very first night that he babysits (And yes, he actually does babysit for her before they get together).
This was a sweet, slow burn, romance and I was here for it. I rated this one 4/5.
March 6, 2026
I give this book 3.5 stars!
This was a really cute, easy romance read. The story felt super sweet and had a lot of those soft, emotional moments that make you smile while you’re reading. I liked the chemistry between the main characters and the way their relationship developed!
it felt natural and not overly dramatic, which I appreciated.
That said, it didn’t completely blow me away. Parts of the plot felt a little predictable, and there were a few moments where I wished the characters had a bit more depth or tension in their relationship. It was enjoyable, but it didn’t quite hit that 4⭐️ level for me.
Overall though, it’s a cozy, feel-good romance that’s perfect if you want something light and wholesome. Definitely still worth the read if you like small emotional moments and sweet character interactions!!
This was a really cute, easy romance read. The story felt super sweet and had a lot of those soft, emotional moments that make you smile while you’re reading. I liked the chemistry between the main characters and the way their relationship developed!
it felt natural and not overly dramatic, which I appreciated.
That said, it didn’t completely blow me away. Parts of the plot felt a little predictable, and there were a few moments where I wished the characters had a bit more depth or tension in their relationship. It was enjoyable, but it didn’t quite hit that 4⭐️ level for me.
Overall though, it’s a cozy, feel-good romance that’s perfect if you want something light and wholesome. Definitely still worth the read if you like small emotional moments and sweet character interactions!!
February 19, 2026
4⭐️
Just give me a moment to gather my thoughts about this sweet story 😩💖
This was a very special surprise for me, this story is so good and sweet and swoony and I loved it! I loved the fact that Derek is so damn sweet and romantic and that man is all the good in this world ❤️🩹 he loved Elizabeth with all his heart and soul and not only her but Rora too 😭💖 and you know that’s my weak spot! So to no one’s surprise, I was crying my eyes out reading the epilogue 👀
I enjoyed this story so much, and beyond the romance I loved the dynamics between all the characters and that’s the reason why I’m going to read all the previous books and then read this again to have the whole experience 💖
This was my first book by the author but won’t be the last ✨
Just give me a moment to gather my thoughts about this sweet story 😩💖
This was a very special surprise for me, this story is so good and sweet and swoony and I loved it! I loved the fact that Derek is so damn sweet and romantic and that man is all the good in this world ❤️🩹 he loved Elizabeth with all his heart and soul and not only her but Rora too 😭💖 and you know that’s my weak spot! So to no one’s surprise, I was crying my eyes out reading the epilogue 👀
I enjoyed this story so much, and beyond the romance I loved the dynamics between all the characters and that’s the reason why I’m going to read all the previous books and then read this again to have the whole experience 💖
This was my first book by the author but won’t be the last ✨
February 25, 2026
okay, yall, if you're looking for something fun, sweet, slight drama, but good character growth....pick up this book.
I enjoyed this one so much.
Derek was just the sweetest and funniest and caring. so much so that he unintentionally friend zones himself. 😅
and Elizabeth a single mom to Aurora, or Rora for short. ☺️ she's such a fun character too who's simply focused on her daughter and career....though she hates her job.
put Derek and Elizabeth together and it's just a fun time.
not to mention a surprise little realization on their part, from the past 🥰
I'm struggling to say something without spoiling anything 🫣
but seriously if you want something cute, mildly spicy, pick up this one.
🫶🏻 thank you J.S. Wood and @hambrightpr for the arc.
I enjoyed this one so much.
Derek was just the sweetest and funniest and caring. so much so that he unintentionally friend zones himself. 😅
and Elizabeth a single mom to Aurora, or Rora for short. ☺️ she's such a fun character too who's simply focused on her daughter and career....though she hates her job.
put Derek and Elizabeth together and it's just a fun time.
not to mention a surprise little realization on their part, from the past 🥰
I'm struggling to say something without spoiling anything 🫣
but seriously if you want something cute, mildly spicy, pick up this one.
🫶🏻 thank you J.S. Wood and @hambrightpr for the arc.
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