What do you think?
Rate this book
Hickory Ridge #1
A Baby Changes Everything
Drew Blackwood’s seen his fair share of babies born—he just never imagined the next could be his own!
Veterinarian Drew is the only one of the four Blackwood brothers to have left Hickory Ridge for greener pastures. Though he adores the gentle, rolling mountains that cradle his family’s sprawling Virginia farm, his plans for the future don’t include a permanent return any time soon.
What they do include is accepting an offer of partnership at a prestigious equine facility in his adopted hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. If he’s lucky, he’ll even figure out how to persuade fellow veterinarian and sweetly sexy confidante Hope Logan to acknowledge the crackling chemistry between them, clearly evidenced by the single night of passion they shared weeks before.
But some surprises have a way of changing everything…
When a positive pregnancy test throws them both for a loop, Drew knows he needs to act quickly to keep Hope from bolting faster than one of the Thoroughbreds they treat. He convinces her to join him on an extended trip home to Hickory Ridge. There, amidst the warm embrace of the entire Blackwood family, the quaint holiday traditions of his youth, and his growing feelings for the mother of his child, Drew begins to accept a new certainty: the only future he truly cares about is one that includes Hope and their baby.
Can he convince her to take a leap into the unknown with him?
Previously published as Drew’s Hope.
Veterinarian Drew is the only one of the four Blackwood brothers to have left Hickory Ridge for greener pastures. Though he adores the gentle, rolling mountains that cradle his family’s sprawling Virginia farm, his plans for the future don’t include a permanent return any time soon.
What they do include is accepting an offer of partnership at a prestigious equine facility in his adopted hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. If he’s lucky, he’ll even figure out how to persuade fellow veterinarian and sweetly sexy confidante Hope Logan to acknowledge the crackling chemistry between them, clearly evidenced by the single night of passion they shared weeks before.
But some surprises have a way of changing everything…
When a positive pregnancy test throws them both for a loop, Drew knows he needs to act quickly to keep Hope from bolting faster than one of the Thoroughbreds they treat. He convinces her to join him on an extended trip home to Hickory Ridge. There, amidst the warm embrace of the entire Blackwood family, the quaint holiday traditions of his youth, and his growing feelings for the mother of his child, Drew begins to accept a new certainty: the only future he truly cares about is one that includes Hope and their baby.
Can he convince her to take a leap into the unknown with him?
Previously published as Drew’s Hope.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2021
184 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Isabelle Grace
9 books38 followersIsabelle writes sweet to steamy contemporary romance primarily set in small-town Americana. Her books are full of heart, humor, and all the feels. So, if you like strong heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, snappy dialogue, and happily-ever-afters, you’ve come to the right place.
When not writing, Isabelle enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching movies and her favorite TV shows, and playing card and board games. Though she continues to work as a part-time adjunct college professor, Isabelle recently retired from public education (teaching in a pandemic was NO joke), where she taught Family and Consumer Sciences (formerly Home Economics) to high schoolers at her alma mater.
Isabelle lives in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in wild, wonderful West Virginia with her family and rescue Pomeranian, Bella. She also loves to hear from her readers. You can connect with her on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/IsabelleGrac...), Twitter (@I.GraceWriting), Webpage (Isabellegracewriting.com), or through email at isabellegrace@isabellegracewriting.com.
When not writing, Isabelle enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching movies and her favorite TV shows, and playing card and board games. Though she continues to work as a part-time adjunct college professor, Isabelle recently retired from public education (teaching in a pandemic was NO joke), where she taught Family and Consumer Sciences (formerly Home Economics) to high schoolers at her alma mater.
Isabelle lives in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in wild, wonderful West Virginia with her family and rescue Pomeranian, Bella. She also loves to hear from her readers. You can connect with her on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/IsabelleGrac...), Twitter (@I.GraceWriting), Webpage (Isabellegracewriting.com), or through email at isabellegrace@isabellegracewriting.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 25, 2022
I want to start off with the fact that for me Isabelle Grace is a new to me author. I haven't yet read her so I didn't know much about her books. I saw this one on NetGalley and thought it was a new book but it looks like it's gotten a new title and cover. It was called Drew's Hope before.
As I've mentioned before I've been looking for new authors to read. When I saw this one come up for review I decided I had to give it a try. I was in a baby mood. I didn't really read what it was about so I was happy when it turned out that the book happens during Thanksgiving and Christmas. You know I love a good holiday romance.
This is a very sweet romance. It's a slow-burning one but one that you can see happening. For Drew, he knew that he cared about Hope. He was all in and would do anything to make her happy. He stood by her when her life was falling apart. I don't think she really thought about it but if she had should have noticed just how much he cared about her.
Now Hope I wasn't sure about it at first. It took me a bit to come around. There are a few things she wanted to do that I didn't understand. I don't want to get into them because I want you to enjoy the book for yourself. Once you figure out she's scared to death and has had a bad turn of it you begin to really understand her.
I like these two as a couple. They work. I could feel the love between them. You will also like and want to know more about Drew's family. He has a bunch of brothers. As a whole, this is a wonderful story to read during the holidays and it will leave you with so many warm feelings. I'm so glad I gave this author a try. I will be reading the rest of the series.
Blog | FacebookTwitter | Instagram
ARC received for an honest review
October 30, 2022
Be still my beating heart! What a lush of a story this is! I loved the story of Drew and Hope, it is some clean sweet romance and had all the Virgin River feels. My only complaint is I want to be back at Hickory Ridge right now! I loved my time there and I am not happy that it’s over already!!
I adored this story! Hope and Drew have a night of passion and it leads to some further consequences that they have both got to learn to deal with. Their story is a gorgeous one. It is swoon-worthy, and just a beauty to watch as it unfurls. I must admit it appealed to my softer side and it made my day when I read it. I started it and I pretty much read it in one sitting, as it was just a story I got completely on board with straight away. The writing wouldn’t let me give the book up, plus I didn’t want to. I felt like I was right there in the story, I was there decorating the Christmas tree, I was there on the sleigh, and I was there right there at the end, it was just awesome. I did feel some of the writing was a little repetitive in places, but you know what I loved the story that much, it didn’t even bother me, I noticed it but I was so involved in the story I just didn’t care.
I can’t wait for the next story in the series, I love books like this because you become invested. You find a family and you find people you want to be reading about, and I just can’t wait until I can be back at Hickory Ridge, back with the Blackwood family!
If you love Virgin River, I am telling you, you are going to LOVE this!
I adored this story! Hope and Drew have a night of passion and it leads to some further consequences that they have both got to learn to deal with. Their story is a gorgeous one. It is swoon-worthy, and just a beauty to watch as it unfurls. I must admit it appealed to my softer side and it made my day when I read it. I started it and I pretty much read it in one sitting, as it was just a story I got completely on board with straight away. The writing wouldn’t let me give the book up, plus I didn’t want to. I felt like I was right there in the story, I was there decorating the Christmas tree, I was there on the sleigh, and I was there right there at the end, it was just awesome. I did feel some of the writing was a little repetitive in places, but you know what I loved the story that much, it didn’t even bother me, I noticed it but I was so involved in the story I just didn’t care.
I can’t wait for the next story in the series, I love books like this because you become invested. You find a family and you find people you want to be reading about, and I just can’t wait until I can be back at Hickory Ridge, back with the Blackwood family!
If you love Virgin River, I am telling you, you are going to LOVE this!
October 31, 2022
A Baby Changes Everything is the first book in the series which revolves around the four brothers who live at the Live Oaks Farm in Beaumont, VA. This author is new to me and I am hooked. I love this engaging love story about doing the right thing even when it's unexpected.
This book is delightful and the characters are really nice, all of them. They are well-rounded and support one another through the ups and downs as any family would. That is no exception when Drew finds himself in the midst of an unexpected pregnancy. The chemistry between Drew and Hope, they are a perfect match and I looking forward to reading how their characters progress through the series. Set against the backdrop of Virgina, I loved the descriptions of the area. I recommend this book to all readers who like an enduring and well-written love story that shows love overcomes the most expected things as a new path is forged. I am anxiously awaiting book 2!
This book is delightful and the characters are really nice, all of them. They are well-rounded and support one another through the ups and downs as any family would. That is no exception when Drew finds himself in the midst of an unexpected pregnancy. The chemistry between Drew and Hope, they are a perfect match and I looking forward to reading how their characters progress through the series. Set against the backdrop of Virgina, I loved the descriptions of the area. I recommend this book to all readers who like an enduring and well-written love story that shows love overcomes the most expected things as a new path is forged. I am anxiously awaiting book 2!
November 4, 2022
Good story
Might have spoilers
Accidental pregnancy
Hope had some bad luck with the loss of her father and the mounting debt he owed. Mentally stressed and struggling since he passed then she finds out she's pregnant.
Drew her co-worker/boss her baby daddy has been a Pilar of strength for her staying by her side through everything not willing to let her suffer alone. Finding out hope is pregnant after receiving a one in lifetime job opportunity then another amazing job opportunity taking over for his grandfather.
He agreed to think both jobs over and would go back home to work with his grandfather if hope was willing to go with him.
Having her on his family's property and exploring their connection could lead them to the happiness they both deserve.
Drew only wants hope no matter where that is he would go anywhere for her.
I liked the characters but hope sometimes was a bit annoying. She considered adoption of her baby but didn't really ask whar Drew wanted. She seemed a little selfish. I understand she was scared and dealing with alot but she never did ask him what he wanted.
Drew was amazing he was sweet and patient and willing to do whatever made hope happy.
Might have spoilers
Accidental pregnancy
Hope had some bad luck with the loss of her father and the mounting debt he owed. Mentally stressed and struggling since he passed then she finds out she's pregnant.
Drew her co-worker/boss her baby daddy has been a Pilar of strength for her staying by her side through everything not willing to let her suffer alone. Finding out hope is pregnant after receiving a one in lifetime job opportunity then another amazing job opportunity taking over for his grandfather.
He agreed to think both jobs over and would go back home to work with his grandfather if hope was willing to go with him.
Having her on his family's property and exploring their connection could lead them to the happiness they both deserve.
Drew only wants hope no matter where that is he would go anywhere for her.
I liked the characters but hope sometimes was a bit annoying. She considered adoption of her baby but didn't really ask whar Drew wanted. She seemed a little selfish. I understand she was scared and dealing with alot but she never did ask him what he wanted.
Drew was amazing he was sweet and patient and willing to do whatever made hope happy.
November 1, 2022
I'm a sucker for an accidental pregnancy romcom, it's a definite guilty pleasure. So imagine my delight in discovering a new author to me in this trope!
I loved the setting in this, the mid-west USA with their well mannered folks and stunning scenery.
There was definitely more that could have been explored with Hope's relationship with her father and his monetary issues.
It also felt like it was relatively rushed over the last 20%, while the ending was always obvious (its hard not to be in this trope) it seemed to panic finding itself nearing the end and rushed the conversation sorely needed between Hope and Drew.
The bits of veterinary work interspersed throughout were really interesting and again I'd have loved to have more about this, especially Hope's background.
It's really fast paced, I read it over the course of one evening.
A lovely little read.
I loved the setting in this, the mid-west USA with their well mannered folks and stunning scenery.
There was definitely more that could have been explored with Hope's relationship with her father and his monetary issues.
It also felt like it was relatively rushed over the last 20%, while the ending was always obvious (its hard not to be in this trope) it seemed to panic finding itself nearing the end and rushed the conversation sorely needed between Hope and Drew.
The bits of veterinary work interspersed throughout were really interesting and again I'd have loved to have more about this, especially Hope's background.
It's really fast paced, I read it over the course of one evening.
A lovely little read.
November 3, 2022
This romance set in a small town is by a new to me author, and is also the first in a series.
It's mostly a clean romance within just a hint of spice that follows the story of Hope and Drew, as they navigate a surprise pregnancy that arises from a drunken night spent together.
I really liked the characters and it was an easy read that I read in one sitting.
If you're someone who enjoys a nice sweet romance full of interesting characters then this series might be one for you to try.
As the book takes place during the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas it's also the perfect one to read at this point in the year too.
I'm looking forward to the next installment of this.
It's mostly a clean romance within just a hint of spice that follows the story of Hope and Drew, as they navigate a surprise pregnancy that arises from a drunken night spent together.
I really liked the characters and it was an easy read that I read in one sitting.
If you're someone who enjoys a nice sweet romance full of interesting characters then this series might be one for you to try.
As the book takes place during the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas it's also the perfect one to read at this point in the year too.
I'm looking forward to the next installment of this.
November 3, 2022
cutesy small town
This book was an easy read and I couldn’t put it down. It may only have 15 chapters, but they are long and filled with such wholesome characters. Drew and Hope are vets who work in a clinic together and have a night of drowning their sorrows together. They think it’s a one night thing, but it doesn’t turn out that way. Drew is the only brother who left his family farm and ventured to new places, but life has other plans for him. You won’t regret reading this precious small town romance.
This book was an easy read and I couldn’t put it down. It may only have 15 chapters, but they are long and filled with such wholesome characters. Drew and Hope are vets who work in a clinic together and have a night of drowning their sorrows together. They think it’s a one night thing, but it doesn’t turn out that way. Drew is the only brother who left his family farm and ventured to new places, but life has other plans for him. You won’t regret reading this precious small town romance.
November 4, 2022
Great read
How nice to read a book that was happy from beginning to the end. Anxious to read the rest of the series.
How nice to read a book that was happy from beginning to the end. Anxious to read the rest of the series.
February 1, 2022
Swoony friend to more, forbidden boss, unexpected pregnancy
This was a very good book by a new-to-me author. It is the first book in a series about four brothers at the Live Oaks Farm in Beaumont, Virginia. I plan to follow this whole series. The characters are well-drawn, very believable and just plain NICE.
There were so many good, logical reasons for Drew and Hope to not pursue their mutual attraction. He was her supervisor; they worked together; they were really good friends. But when a combination of circumstances cause Hope to feel totally overwhelmed, she turns to Drew for an escape in his arms. It was an escape that will mean their lives will be intertwined forever; Hope is pregnamt with his baby.
These two young professionals need to learn to talk through a lot of issues to find their way to a HEA on his family's working cattle & horse farm.
I received an ARC copy of this story directly from the author and voluntarily chose to share my review.
This was a very good book by a new-to-me author. It is the first book in a series about four brothers at the Live Oaks Farm in Beaumont, Virginia. I plan to follow this whole series. The characters are well-drawn, very believable and just plain NICE.
There were so many good, logical reasons for Drew and Hope to not pursue their mutual attraction. He was her supervisor; they worked together; they were really good friends. But when a combination of circumstances cause Hope to feel totally overwhelmed, she turns to Drew for an escape in his arms. It was an escape that will mean their lives will be intertwined forever; Hope is pregnamt with his baby.
These two young professionals need to learn to talk through a lot of issues to find their way to a HEA on his family's working cattle & horse farm.
I received an ARC copy of this story directly from the author and voluntarily chose to share my review.
September 1, 2021
Drew's Hope is the first book in The Blackwood Brothers series by Isabelle Grace, and also my first read by this author. This is a well-written and heartfelt story of the challenges faced when emotions lead to unexpected consequences, and professional options put additional pressure on an already volatile situation. A like the ebb and flow and the storyline and the character portrayals were strong and believable. A thoroughly enjoyable story and very entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2021
This is the first book I have read by this author and this is the first in the series on the Blackwood Brothers. I definitely plan on reading more this was so good. The storyline is well-written that includes challenges, emotions, unexpected consequences, and some steamy heat. I really like both Hope and Drew their characters are well developed, strong, professional, and believable. What will the ending have for them? Recommend the book as it is both enjoyable and entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2021
I enjoyed this so much. I will definitely be reading future books in this series! It is wonderfully sweet and sexy.
Drew becomes a rock for Hope when she has to deal with the mess after her beloved father dies, without her even realizing it. Their attraction overcomes them, but it can only be this once. Dealing with a surprise and stress, Drew invites her to a visit with his family so she won't be alone for the holidays. Find out if things will work out for Drew and Hope...
Drew becomes a rock for Hope when she has to deal with the mess after her beloved father dies, without her even realizing it. Their attraction overcomes them, but it can only be this once. Dealing with a surprise and stress, Drew invites her to a visit with his family so she won't be alone for the holidays. Find out if things will work out for Drew and Hope...
August 29, 2021
What a sweet beginning to The Blackwood Brothers series. The characters were wonderful and inspiring, and the writing flowed naturally. This is the first book from Isabelle Grace I've had the pleasure of reading, and I'm very much looking forward to the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 2, 2021
The first book in the Blackwood Brothers series a well written story that held my interest until the end. i enjoyed seeing veterinarian Drew Blackwood and veterinarian, Hope Logan's story come together. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 11, 2021
This was a great book to curl up with, this is the first one I have read but I will be checking out the rest of this author's books. I was sucked right into this book and could not wait to see what happened next; I would definitely recommend it I did not want to stop reading.
September 19, 2021
Such a lovely romance. I related to the characters and felt with them. The ending was beautifully written. I know this needs to lead to a series of at least each of the brothers.
Read
August 14, 2022Lovely
A beautiful sweet love story. Simple and easy. No jealous people. Just two people learning about how to mesh their lives. Gently and together.
A beautiful sweet love story. Simple and easy. No jealous people. Just two people learning about how to mesh their lives. Gently and together.
October 25, 2022
This is book one in The Hickory Ridge series and it is Drew and Hope's story and what a great start to a new series and author to me. Drew and Hope are not only vet's but also best friend's and work together at the equine centre and even though they have strong chemistry between them neither have done anything about it until Hope's father becomes seriously ill and Drew and Hope end up spending the night together. With all the stress of Hope's father illness and then passing away she suddenly realised that she is pregnant with Drew's baby complicating everything and not knowing what to do next. When Drew goes home for a visit during the holidays he eventually managed to convince Hope to go with him hoping that he can convince her that they are perfect for each other and meant to be together and become a family but will it all work out for them in the end. I absolutely loved this book and enjoyed watching Drew and Hope navigate and grow there relationship and become stronger together. I couldn't put this book down as it was a real page turner and had great characters and a storyline that pulled you in and kept your attention. This is the first book that I have read by this author and I can't wait to read more book's by her in the future.
November 1, 2022
Drew Blackwood’s seen his fair share of babies born—he just never imagined the next could be his own!
When a few instances of nothing going right, Hope turns to Drew to just escape real life for a short time. Little did they realize that moment would connect them together for life.
A well-written story that pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages, not wanting the story to end. The characters are easy to get to know and their story to a HEA is an enjoyable one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When a few instances of nothing going right, Hope turns to Drew to just escape real life for a short time. Little did they realize that moment would connect them together for life.
A well-written story that pulls you in and keeps you turning the pages, not wanting the story to end. The characters are easy to get to know and their story to a HEA is an enjoyable one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2022
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I will definitely be checking out more, imcluding the rest of this series, I really enjoyed this read.
It is well written with a storyline that is both steamy and full of emotion and angst and characters that are well developed, relatable and who I loved.
If you like heartfelt romances with problems to overcome and a good amount of spice I would recommend this read.
It is well written with a storyline that is both steamy and full of emotion and angst and characters that are well developed, relatable and who I loved.
If you like heartfelt romances with problems to overcome and a good amount of spice I would recommend this read.
January 10, 2023
After spending one night with her boss, Drew, Hope finds herself pregnant. But not only is she expecting a baby, but she has also lost her father and inherited his debts.
With the holidays fast approaching and the first alone, Drew invites her to spend them with his family, but while there is a baby on the way the two must reconnect to one another and figure out what they want their future to look like.
This was a beautiful and easy read that I could not put down. I loved every character, each one made my heart warm and I even shed tears for the character of Hope feeling what she was going through by simply reading the words.
This novel is told through the third-person narrative of Hope and Drew, which is a perfect combination to keep the narrative flowing. I have heard this is a series and I look forward to reading the second
With the holidays fast approaching and the first alone, Drew invites her to spend them with his family, but while there is a baby on the way the two must reconnect to one another and figure out what they want their future to look like.
This was a beautiful and easy read that I could not put down. I loved every character, each one made my heart warm and I even shed tears for the character of Hope feeling what she was going through by simply reading the words.
This novel is told through the third-person narrative of Hope and Drew, which is a perfect combination to keep the narrative flowing. I have heard this is a series and I look forward to reading the second
May 25, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for being able to read this as an ARC. These are my honest reviews.
I LOVED THIS BOOK! First and foremost, it took my heart because the characters work with animals and they were not expecting anything long term. But feelings develop and before you can blink a positive test makes everything seem tense. The smartest thing was to bring her home. Super 5 stars here.
I LOVED THIS BOOK! First and foremost, it took my heart because the characters work with animals and they were not expecting anything long term. But feelings develop and before you can blink a positive test makes everything seem tense. The smartest thing was to bring her home. Super 5 stars here.
November 7, 2022
heartwarming read
I do love this kind of romance novel
It has a good storyline and great characters to relate to. I read this book in a few days as I needed to know the ending!! It didn’t disappoint at all!!
I do love this kind of romance novel
It has a good storyline and great characters to relate to. I read this book in a few days as I needed to know the ending!! It didn’t disappoint at all!!
December 14, 2022
Good story
I enjoyed the dedication of the father to his future wife and child since he first was told he was going to be a father. I recommend this story for the young adult reader. Note:. There's premarital sex but not overly descriptive
I enjoyed the dedication of the father to his future wife and child since he first was told he was going to be a father. I recommend this story for the young adult reader. Note:. There's premarital sex but not overly descriptive
January 15, 2023
A little less clean than I normally read but I enjoyed it. Isabelle Grace gave us characters that were dedicated to the baby they had created, that is refreshing in these times. I am ready to read the next book.
May 31, 2023
wonderful story!
This story makes you think about when you first got married and had your first child. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I couldn’t put the book down.
This story makes you think about when you first got married and had your first child. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I couldn’t put the book down.
June 30, 2023
Thanks U, Isabelle Grace!
Enjoyable romance, great characters,
& family. It didn't have any great sadness or misery. That made it a little bit predictable, but a good story anyway.
Enjoyable romance, great characters,
& family. It didn't have any great sadness or misery. That made it a little bit predictable, but a good story anyway.
July 6, 2023
Great
I loved this book, I love all the characters in it! It was so wonderful to read something that was nice and real.
I loved this book, I love all the characters in it! It was so wonderful to read something that was nice and real.
October 29, 2022
Lovely story
Hope was so lucky to get into a big happy family after losing her dad. I enjoyed this story a lot and do recommend it.
Hope was so lucky to get into a big happy family after losing her dad. I enjoyed this story a lot and do recommend it.
January 11, 2023
Enjoyed
This was an enjoyable read. I liked the use of Kentucky and Virginia areas. Mostly this book was warmly written, my first book with this author, can't wait to read more of her books.
This was an enjoyable read. I liked the use of Kentucky and Virginia areas. Mostly this book was warmly written, my first book with this author, can't wait to read more of her books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews