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Willow Shade Island
You're Still the One
She needs a fake boyfriend. He’s been waiting years to make it real.
Savannah Hollingsworth doesn’t need complications. After a life-changing diagnosis left her future uncertain, she’s sworn off dating—and definitely sworn off love. But when a pushy admirer just won’t take a hint, she turns to the one guy who’s always had her Noah Barrett.
Noah’s been in love with Savannah since high school. Now a local cop with a past he’s proud to have outgrown, he jumps at the chance to play her boyfriend—even if it’s only pretend. He just hopes living next door and spending time as her “fake” boyfriend will finally show her that he’s the real deal.
But the closer they get, the harder it is for Savannah to keep pretending her heart’s not involved. And Noah? He’s done pretending anything.
Fake Relationship, Second Chance, Bad Boy Turned Good, Next Door Neighbors, Protective Hero, Slow Burn, He Falls First.
Savannah Hollingsworth doesn’t need complications. After a life-changing diagnosis left her future uncertain, she’s sworn off dating—and definitely sworn off love. But when a pushy admirer just won’t take a hint, she turns to the one guy who’s always had her Noah Barrett.
Noah’s been in love with Savannah since high school. Now a local cop with a past he’s proud to have outgrown, he jumps at the chance to play her boyfriend—even if it’s only pretend. He just hopes living next door and spending time as her “fake” boyfriend will finally show her that he’s the real deal.
But the closer they get, the harder it is for Savannah to keep pretending her heart’s not involved. And Noah? He’s done pretending anything.
Fake Relationship, Second Chance, Bad Boy Turned Good, Next Door Neighbors, Protective Hero, Slow Burn, He Falls First.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 6, 2025
174 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
May 6, 2025
If you enjoy the work of Julie Christiansen, Ellie Hall, and others with a similar writing style, you will love this book. It’s well written, a clean romcom, second chance novel. It is part of a series and if you haven’t read the previous book you may struggle to understand some of the secondary characters and figure out how they are connected. I really enjoyed this book and I recommend it.
May 10, 2025
Whenever I get the chance to read a book by Victorine E. Lieske, I know I'm going to be pulled into the story and become connected with the characters! I just love her writing style. There isn't a book by her that I haven't loved! That goes for these books in the Willow Shade Island series. I'm completely invested in the Barrett family's stories and what happens in their lives. These Barrett brothers have had struggles in their lives after their parents died while they were young. But I have loved reading about them when they are older and seeing them reflect back on life and their struggles and trying to find healing and joy as they've grown a little older. Their stories make my heart happy. And I love that we continue to see all of the brothers in each book. That's one thing that I love about series, is being able to see these characters that we've come to care for (yes, I know they're fictional) past the end of their story.
This is a series that I highly recommend you read in order. There's a lot of history and stuff that you need to build on it with each book. You could technically read them out of order but you might feel like you're missing some info.
Noah Barrett is the second oldest brother and we get to read his story in this second book. I loved the little build up moments for it in the first book, especially then ending of the book. It made me even more excited to read Noah and Savannah's story. And let me tell you, I loved it and was not disappointed at all! These two were high school sweethearts and then there was a big curveball that Noah never understood. And now he has the chance to find out and show Savannah that he's still ready to be all in with their relationship. Be still my heart! I just adore them both. I loved seeing them both work through struggles and building a strong and healthy relationship. They have their struggles and setbacks but they kept working through it and trying to make it better. I love that so much!
Now I'm going to be patiently waiting for the next book!
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further. The next content info has some trigger warnings and possible spoilers so read on if you don't mind *********************************************** some talk of death of parents, a character was in juvenile detention, some talk of a character having cancer, some talk of an unhealthy relationship between parents and with their child, some talk of divorce and a character who struggles with mental health(mostly in regards to the first book).******************************************
I received a copy from the author via BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
This is a series that I highly recommend you read in order. There's a lot of history and stuff that you need to build on it with each book. You could technically read them out of order but you might feel like you're missing some info.
Noah Barrett is the second oldest brother and we get to read his story in this second book. I loved the little build up moments for it in the first book, especially then ending of the book. It made me even more excited to read Noah and Savannah's story. And let me tell you, I loved it and was not disappointed at all! These two were high school sweethearts and then there was a big curveball that Noah never understood. And now he has the chance to find out and show Savannah that he's still ready to be all in with their relationship. Be still my heart! I just adore them both. I loved seeing them both work through struggles and building a strong and healthy relationship. They have their struggles and setbacks but they kept working through it and trying to make it better. I love that so much!
Now I'm going to be patiently waiting for the next book!
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further. The next content info has some trigger warnings and possible spoilers so read on if you don't mind *********************************************** some talk of death of parents, a character was in juvenile detention, some talk of a character having cancer, some talk of an unhealthy relationship between parents and with their child, some talk of divorce and a character who struggles with mental health(mostly in regards to the first book).******************************************
I received a copy from the author via BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
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May 27, 2025This book has been nominated for a 2025 Swoony Award, to vote for it click here: Swoony Awards.
September 25, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
" You’re Still the One" is everything I love about a second-chance romance—heartfelt, sweet, and full of genuine emotion. Victorine E. Lieske has created a story that’s more than just about rekindled love; it’s about family ties, forgiveness, and finding hope even when the past has left scars.
Noah, the steady and protective cop, never really got over Savannah, the girl who walked away years ago. When she returns as his next-door neighbor, their reunion is anything but simple. There’s baggage between them, misunderstandings from the past, and a whole lot of unresolved feelings simmering beneath the surface. I loved how the story didn’t rush them back together—it took time, with awkward moments, sweet gestures, and plenty of banter that made their relationship feel genuine.
One of the highlights for me was the family dynamic. The Barrett brothers are a lively bunch, full of teasing, loyalty, and protective instincts, and little Skyler added both warmth and heartache to the story. The subplot involving Courtney stirred up just enough drama to keep the tension high without overshadowing the romance.
What surprised me most was the emotional depth—Savannah’s personal struggles and inner battles gave the story a layer of realism that made me root for her even more. And through it all, Noah’s unwavering support made their love story feel strong and enduring.
If you enjoy small-town settings, heartfelt second chances, and romances that balance sweetness with emotional weight, this one is a must-read.
A tender second-chance romance with family drama, small-town charm, and love that proves it was never really lost.
" You’re Still the One" is everything I love about a second-chance romance—heartfelt, sweet, and full of genuine emotion. Victorine E. Lieske has created a story that’s more than just about rekindled love; it’s about family ties, forgiveness, and finding hope even when the past has left scars.
Noah, the steady and protective cop, never really got over Savannah, the girl who walked away years ago. When she returns as his next-door neighbor, their reunion is anything but simple. There’s baggage between them, misunderstandings from the past, and a whole lot of unresolved feelings simmering beneath the surface. I loved how the story didn’t rush them back together—it took time, with awkward moments, sweet gestures, and plenty of banter that made their relationship feel genuine.
One of the highlights for me was the family dynamic. The Barrett brothers are a lively bunch, full of teasing, loyalty, and protective instincts, and little Skyler added both warmth and heartache to the story. The subplot involving Courtney stirred up just enough drama to keep the tension high without overshadowing the romance.
What surprised me most was the emotional depth—Savannah’s personal struggles and inner battles gave the story a layer of realism that made me root for her even more. And through it all, Noah’s unwavering support made their love story feel strong and enduring.
If you enjoy small-town settings, heartfelt second chances, and romances that balance sweetness with emotional weight, this one is a must-read.
A tender second-chance romance with family drama, small-town charm, and love that proves it was never really lost.
May 30, 2025
We're back on Willow Shade Island to get Noah Barrett's story, which is a second-chance romance (one of my favorite tropes). You should read Because You Loved Me first to get the backstory on the Barrett brothers, as they are part of this book.
"I'm knocking down a wall because I like the woman next door. I'm such a schmuck."
Savannah Hollingsworth has been through a lot. After a life-changing diagnosis, she’s put romance on the back burner and built some pretty solid walls around her heart. She’s not looking for love, and she’s not looking for complications. But when a persistent guy won’t stop asking her out she turns to someone she trusts completely—her longtime friend and next-door neighbor, Noah Barrett.
Noah, a local cop with a past he's worked hard to overcome, has been secretly harboring feelings for Savannah since their high school days. So when she proposes a fake relationship to deter her admirer, he readily agrees. For Noah, this isn't just a friendly favor; it's a golden opportunity to show Savannah that he's serious about her, hoping that proximity and their "pretend" romance will finally open her eyes to his true feelings.
I loved Noah and Savannah!! From knocking down the wall in her house for her photography studio, to just hanging out, they're relationship felt so real. Savannah’s fears and hesitations made sense, and it was easy to understand why she was so protective of her heart but towards the end I was yelling at her to "just tell him"!! At the same time, Noah was just the best—supportive, steady, and so clearly in love with her. He wasn’t trying to “fix” her or push her into anything. He was just there, being patient and kind and exactly what she needed.
There are plenty of sweet, romantic moments, but what stood out most to me was how much heart the story had. It’s about love, yes, but also about trust, healing, and letting yourself be vulnerable even when it’s scary.
This is such a sweet, heartfelt read that had me rooting for the characters from the very beginning. If you love the fake dating, friends-to-lovers, or second-chance romance tropes—especially with a hero who’s been in love forever—this one definitely delivers.
I received a complimentary copy from the author via BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
"I'm knocking down a wall because I like the woman next door. I'm such a schmuck."
Savannah Hollingsworth has been through a lot. After a life-changing diagnosis, she’s put romance on the back burner and built some pretty solid walls around her heart. She’s not looking for love, and she’s not looking for complications. But when a persistent guy won’t stop asking her out she turns to someone she trusts completely—her longtime friend and next-door neighbor, Noah Barrett.
Noah, a local cop with a past he's worked hard to overcome, has been secretly harboring feelings for Savannah since their high school days. So when she proposes a fake relationship to deter her admirer, he readily agrees. For Noah, this isn't just a friendly favor; it's a golden opportunity to show Savannah that he's serious about her, hoping that proximity and their "pretend" romance will finally open her eyes to his true feelings.
I loved Noah and Savannah!! From knocking down the wall in her house for her photography studio, to just hanging out, they're relationship felt so real. Savannah’s fears and hesitations made sense, and it was easy to understand why she was so protective of her heart but towards the end I was yelling at her to "just tell him"!! At the same time, Noah was just the best—supportive, steady, and so clearly in love with her. He wasn’t trying to “fix” her or push her into anything. He was just there, being patient and kind and exactly what she needed.
There are plenty of sweet, romantic moments, but what stood out most to me was how much heart the story had. It’s about love, yes, but also about trust, healing, and letting yourself be vulnerable even when it’s scary.
This is such a sweet, heartfelt read that had me rooting for the characters from the very beginning. If you love the fake dating, friends-to-lovers, or second-chance romance tropes—especially with a hero who’s been in love forever—this one definitely delivers.
I received a complimentary copy from the author via BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
September 6, 2025
I am honestly a little confused with this book. I want to start off by saying that I read this book as a standalone, but realized halfway through that it would have been better to read the books in this series in order, as I was lacking a lot of context. I felt lost right on page 1 with the whole Skylar and Kiki dynamic, but I did continue reading the book as a standalone, but wouldn't suggest the same to others, and request reading the books in order to get more context.
Probably because of a lack of context from book 1, or maybe it was an issue with this book, I didn't really understand why, after years did the MMC decided to move close to the FMC and how they were still keeping in touch post the fallout years back. I felt hurt for the FMC but also found her strong, and although I didn't really understand the chemistry between the two (and even the blurb kind of threw me off on what their dynamic was before), I did find him being a nice and helpful person who has also been through stuff. For some reason, I felt that the different aspects in the book weren't flowing smoothly. When the FMC reveals the truth to the MMC the first time around, I expected more of a reaction and the second time around, I didn't expect to see things sorted between them so soon. The ending of the book was interesting and brought anticipation for the next book although I might give it a pass, I felt it made the journey of getting through the book a bit interesting. I wish there were more discussions or more angest/pining/spark between the MCs. This book personally wasn't it for me.
Also, the author could have taken the time to add trigger/content warnings but I am grateful for some users in the reviews who added these.
Probably because of a lack of context from book 1, or maybe it was an issue with this book, I didn't really understand why, after years did the MMC decided to move close to the FMC and how they were still keeping in touch post the fallout years back. I felt hurt for the FMC but also found her strong, and although I didn't really understand the chemistry between the two (and even the blurb kind of threw me off on what their dynamic was before), I did find him being a nice and helpful person who has also been through stuff. For some reason, I felt that the different aspects in the book weren't flowing smoothly. When the FMC reveals the truth to the MMC the first time around, I expected more of a reaction and the second time around, I didn't expect to see things sorted between them so soon. The ending of the book was interesting and brought anticipation for the next book although I might give it a pass, I felt it made the journey of getting through the book a bit interesting. I wish there were more discussions or more angest/pining/spark between the MCs. This book personally wasn't it for me.
Also, the author could have taken the time to add trigger/content warnings but I am grateful for some users in the reviews who added these.
June 1, 2025
Noah was a mess in high school, and being ghosted by the only girl he's ever loved didn't help. But now he's turned his life around and become a cop, it's time to move in next door to the one who got away in the hope of a second chance. And when she wants help avoiding a would-be boyfriend who doesn't like to take no for an answer, he's happy to play fake boyfriend to help her escape. Savannah saw what recurring illness did to her family, and she's determined not to repeat the cycle - so marriage is off the table. But the more she sees of Noah and the more he (and his family) step in to help, the harder it is to view their relationship as fake. But can she overcome her fear of the future to appreciate the here and now - and rewrite her potential future?
After seeing these two interact in the previous book, I was eager to learn more of their history and see what happens with them (since it was obvious something had to!). Well, the story didn't disappoint. I loved Noah's patience with Savannah, and watching them together was delightful. I'd have to say that I didn't find her attitude particularly logical, but honestly that's common with our fears, so I can't really hold that against the author. And seeing more of Noah's family from the previous book was definitely a bonus, and something I hope will continue through the series. Having said that, this is definitely a complete standalone story, though after reading this you may well want to find out how Tobias and Kiki got together… All in all, an enjoyable lightish read, and I'm looking forward to book 3. 4.5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
After seeing these two interact in the previous book, I was eager to learn more of their history and see what happens with them (since it was obvious something had to!). Well, the story didn't disappoint. I loved Noah's patience with Savannah, and watching them together was delightful. I'd have to say that I didn't find her attitude particularly logical, but honestly that's common with our fears, so I can't really hold that against the author. And seeing more of Noah's family from the previous book was definitely a bonus, and something I hope will continue through the series. Having said that, this is definitely a complete standalone story, though after reading this you may well want to find out how Tobias and Kiki got together… All in all, an enjoyable lightish read, and I'm looking forward to book 3. 4.5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 14, 2025
This is the second book in this series, you can still read this if you haven't read the first, although i think it does help because the characters are all from the first book. Savannah is making the most of her life, her dream is to open a photography studio. But that means money so she's working at Peachy Keen waiting on tables and serving, it pays bills and keeps her feed. When she sees her new neighbour she knows this is going to get difficult. Noah has grown up since school he's got a good job in the local police department, although he never thought he'd become a police officer. Now moving in next door to Savannah he's hoping to finally find out why she ghosted him and maybe hopefully rekindle what the started back in high school. He never got over her and hopefully now he could find out what he did wrong. This story just tugs at your heart and discusses sensitive subjects and how they compound people. Both characters have issues from their childhood and have built walls to cover their hurt. Can Noah convince Savannah and slowly prove his love. Will Savannah finally let Noah in and explain her past. I love this series and the bond between Noah and all his brothers. I'm looking forward to Levi's story next and can't wait to read it
May 22, 2025
Kind of a shallow storyline. Not well explored.
Not one of her better books. Up to a point the storyline was still good and enjoyable, but some of the main characters issues didn’t seem well researched and so came across as not very believable. Also there were deeper issues that could have been better addressed that were ignored. Such as the trauma that Savannah developed as a result of her parents unstable marriage and her mothers health issues as well as the long term betrayal of her so called ‘close’ friend. The friend who is only brought into the dialogue a couple of times to support this betrayal role without any resolution between the two. It kind of felt like there was only this little, ‘oh my gosh’ moment and then things just kept rolling along like, ‘oh well.’ It just felt like there were a lot of opportunities for the author to really explore these underlying issues that would have brought a much better resolution to the story. Instead I was left with the impression that there was so little genuine resolution that they are probably going to break up after their first real fight as a couple. I wanted to like this story, but it just felt too shallow.
Not one of her better books. Up to a point the storyline was still good and enjoyable, but some of the main characters issues didn’t seem well researched and so came across as not very believable. Also there were deeper issues that could have been better addressed that were ignored. Such as the trauma that Savannah developed as a result of her parents unstable marriage and her mothers health issues as well as the long term betrayal of her so called ‘close’ friend. The friend who is only brought into the dialogue a couple of times to support this betrayal role without any resolution between the two. It kind of felt like there was only this little, ‘oh my gosh’ moment and then things just kept rolling along like, ‘oh well.’ It just felt like there were a lot of opportunities for the author to really explore these underlying issues that would have brought a much better resolution to the story. Instead I was left with the impression that there was so little genuine resolution that they are probably going to break up after their first real fight as a couple. I wanted to like this story, but it just felt too shallow.
May 28, 2025
This is the second book in the Willow Shade Island series, which follows the lives of the Barrett brothers—a close-knit family who’ve held together through the pain of losing their parents far too young. Each of their stories is filled with heartache, healing, and the redemptive power of love, and Noah’s story is no different.
Noah, a dedicated cop, is deeply protective of those he cares about. He’s always carried a torch for his high school sweetheart, Savannah—the girl who broke his heart when she ghosted him just before prom.
Savannah is a kind, resilient woman with a traumatic past. She’s doing her best to cope in the only way she knows how—even if that means pushing Noah away to avoid repeating history or causing him more pain. Her internal struggle between love and fear makes her journey all the more touching.
This is a short, sweet, and easy read—a charming story about loyalty, second chances, and the determination to hold onto love no matter what life throws at you. A very cute and heartwarming addition to the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Noah, a dedicated cop, is deeply protective of those he cares about. He’s always carried a torch for his high school sweetheart, Savannah—the girl who broke his heart when she ghosted him just before prom.
Savannah is a kind, resilient woman with a traumatic past. She’s doing her best to cope in the only way she knows how—even if that means pushing Noah away to avoid repeating history or causing him more pain. Her internal struggle between love and fear makes her journey all the more touching.
This is a short, sweet, and easy read—a charming story about loyalty, second chances, and the determination to hold onto love no matter what life throws at you. A very cute and heartwarming addition to the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 18, 2025
Has both warmth and charm, perfect for fans of small-town romance.
This is a charming second-chance romance. Savannah is navigating life after a difficult medical diagnosis in her late teens. Determined to avoid entanglements, she finds herself in need of a fake boyfriend to fend off an overly persistent admirer. Noah, her high school friend and now next-door neighbor—who just so happens to have been in love with her for years. What starts as a pretend relationship quickly becomes emotionally complicated, especially as Noah’s feelings are anything but fake. As Savannah begins to let her guard down, the line between pretend and real starts to blur.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a charming second-chance romance. Savannah is navigating life after a difficult medical diagnosis in her late teens. Determined to avoid entanglements, she finds herself in need of a fake boyfriend to fend off an overly persistent admirer. Noah, her high school friend and now next-door neighbor—who just so happens to have been in love with her for years. What starts as a pretend relationship quickly becomes emotionally complicated, especially as Noah’s feelings are anything but fake. As Savannah begins to let her guard down, the line between pretend and real starts to blur.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 11, 2025
This book was an emotional wonderful whirlwind of a ride! Once I started it, I couldn't stop. Noah was the sweetest, protective, sexy, wonderful cop MC that you just wanted to give a big hug to. He took on the safety of everyone and wanted make sure Savannah was not only safe but happy. He would literally do anything to put a smile on her face. Savannah was such a strong, sweet, caring, maybe a little nieve at times, but wonderfully compassionate person. The things she went through and was dealing with made my heart hurt for her. There are some triggers in here for cancer and abuse so please be aware of those. This book was such a wonderful reminder of love, resilience, compassion and made family. It is so worth the read!
July 29, 2025
content: Clean, abuse and cancer
As a disabled person, I have mixed feelings about this book. Like, while I myself have struggled with feeling like I can let someone in because of my diseases, the fixation on there only being one way to have a family and not giving the other person an option to choose what they're willing to bear in a relationship is frustrating.
Seems overly simplistic as time goes on. Like, they deal with more serious things but not... deeply. I think some aspects could have been removed and just delved deeper into one thing. I continued because I wanted to see if it resolved by going deeper or not. The view of mental health things is frustrating too. I like a lot of Victorine's books.... but this one is a pass for me.
As a disabled person, I have mixed feelings about this book. Like, while I myself have struggled with feeling like I can let someone in because of my diseases, the fixation on there only being one way to have a family and not giving the other person an option to choose what they're willing to bear in a relationship is frustrating.
Seems overly simplistic as time goes on. Like, they deal with more serious things but not... deeply. I think some aspects could have been removed and just delved deeper into one thing. I continued because I wanted to see if it resolved by going deeper or not. The view of mental health things is frustrating too. I like a lot of Victorine's books.... but this one is a pass for me.
May 31, 2025
Sweet love story about Savannah, a young woman who has no mom because of cancer and Savannah has been tested and has this same genetic cancer that reoccurs. Noah, a young reble rouser in youth turned policeman, after losing parents in a dui, drunk driver taking their lives and both reuniting after years of high school romance and now neighbors.
Found their interactions heartwarming and timid at first and when realizing they love each other the emotional growth that came. Love the closeness between Noah and his brothers, Barrett Family.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Found their interactions heartwarming and timid at first and when realizing they love each other the emotional growth that came. Love the closeness between Noah and his brothers, Barrett Family.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 2, 2025
What a charming, heartwarming story!
I loved the interactions between the Barrett brothers, their loyalty & love is evident throughout the book.
Although this is a romcom, there are serious topics represented in this story such as life threatening diagnosis, death, domestic abuse and mental illness. The author managed to weave them into the story without making light of them or making the story depressing. Well done!
This can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the previous book to fully grasp the history of the side characters.
I received an advance review copy courtesy of BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the interactions between the Barrett brothers, their loyalty & love is evident throughout the book.
Although this is a romcom, there are serious topics represented in this story such as life threatening diagnosis, death, domestic abuse and mental illness. The author managed to weave them into the story without making light of them or making the story depressing. Well done!
This can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the previous book to fully grasp the history of the side characters.
I received an advance review copy courtesy of BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 17, 2025
Second in this series based on the fictional island of Willow Shade now focusing on the another Barrett brother, Noah and his rekindled love with Savannah, the one who got away.
I love this one just as much as the first. The family dynamics are great. There is emotional trauma and challenges, but they are handled in such a way that it doesn't weigh heavily as you read. There is some mention of mental illness and domestic violence, but is touched on very lightly.
Overall, I'm really enjoying this series and am looking forward to Levi's story next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love this one just as much as the first. The family dynamics are great. There is emotional trauma and challenges, but they are handled in such a way that it doesn't weigh heavily as you read. There is some mention of mental illness and domestic violence, but is touched on very lightly.
Overall, I'm really enjoying this series and am looking forward to Levi's story next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 24, 2025
You’re Still the One
What a sweet second chance story we get to read about Savannah and Noah. Noah has loved Savannah since they dated in high school. He has not been able to forget her even after she ghosted him. Noah has grown up and become a cop in spite of all the negative things said about him as a teen. Savannah has a secret that keeps her from letting Noah get closer to her. She has an unwanted admirer now and can think of no better way to dissuade him than to fake a relationship with Noah if Noah will agree. Will their hearts be able to remember the relationship is fake? What will Noah do when he discovers her secret?
What a sweet second chance story we get to read about Savannah and Noah. Noah has loved Savannah since they dated in high school. He has not been able to forget her even after she ghosted him. Noah has grown up and become a cop in spite of all the negative things said about him as a teen. Savannah has a secret that keeps her from letting Noah get closer to her. She has an unwanted admirer now and can think of no better way to dissuade him than to fake a relationship with Noah if Noah will agree. Will their hearts be able to remember the relationship is fake? What will Noah do when he discovers her secret?
May 17, 2025
Noah has been in love with Savanna since high school but for some reason she ghosted him and has never explained why. Savanna has always regretted disappearing from Noah’s life but knows it was for his own good. But now he’s moved in next door and is helping his “neighbor” with her remodel. Can she keep him at a distance? Or can Noah convince her to give them another chance? I enjoyed this second book in the Willow Shade Island and the Barrett Brothers series. Love the unity and interaction of this family. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 4, 2025
This book was a refreshing read. It’s a well written, clean romance. Savannah and Noah were charming and I was rooting for them from the beginning. It’s the second in the series and, having not read the first book, I did feel like I was missing some context and background (especially with the secondary characters) but not so much that I couldn’t follow the storyline.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read that left me with all the warm and fuzzy feelings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read that left me with all the warm and fuzzy feelings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 11, 2025
We were left with quite a shock in book 1, but Noah was there to handle it, thank goodness. All the questions around Noah and Savannah seem to escalate, but we do get the answers in dribs and drabs throughout the book. The most important question was why Savannah disappeared so soon after prom leaving Noah devastated.
As with book 1, we have a long wait to find out the truth, but we are not left disappointed. On to book 3, How Sweet It Is with Levi. It sounds like an opposite attracts situation.
I received a copy from BookSirens and this is my honest and voluntary review.
As with book 1, we have a long wait to find out the truth, but we are not left disappointed. On to book 3, How Sweet It Is with Levi. It sounds like an opposite attracts situation.
I received a copy from BookSirens and this is my honest and voluntary review.
August 14, 2025
I had a free copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Savannah Hollingsworth had dated Noah Barrett in high school until she ghosted him when she developed cancer. Noah, a local policeman, who is still in love with her, purchases a house next door to her so he can see her and hopefully re-establish a relationship. She asks him to fake date her to prevent another man from bothering her. While they date, they both grow closer and she tells him about her cancer and why she can’t form a long term relationship. A heartwarming book about relationships and family.
May 12, 2025
I love Noah and Savannah story. Noah is such a likable character and is so chivalrous trying to help out Savannah. The more I learned about both of them, the more you realized all they went through. The brothers are such a cute family, and I can’t wait to see what happens with the other two brothers.
Clean romance that you will not want to put down. I love all the books by Victorine E. Lieske. She is the first author that got me hooked on ebooks!
Clean romance that you will not want to put down. I love all the books by Victorine E. Lieske. She is the first author that got me hooked on ebooks!
June 7, 2025
A fun heartwarming fake, that turns real relationship. Noah and Savannah were friends from high school, but she stood him up for the dance and no longer would talk to him. He wanted to understand so he bought a house next door to her. I loved how he cared and was so tender with her as he learns about her difficult secrets. I love the Barrett brother connection and the love and support they give each other. Wonderful story and addition to this series, don’t miss it.
August 1, 2025
This was a second-chance, fake dating romance with all the small town cuteness I love. Savannah and Noah broke up ages ago, but now they’re pretending to be a couple to get rid of a guy who won’t stop chasing Savannah. Of course, old feelings aren’t staying buried. It’s sweet, clean, and gave me all the cozy, slow-burn vibes. If you’re into small-town drama, a little swoon, and second chances, this one’s a fun, easy read. 💛
December 23, 2025
Just as cute as the first one, and, again, not too long. I’m learning that this author isn’t that great at setting up the story (she kind of pushes the characters into the situation in ways that don’t always make total sense), but I’m happy to get through the setup quickly and get into the story already. Same thing with the way her characters reveal their secrets: sometimes unexpectedly and too suddenly openly, considering how long they’ve been hiding it.
December 26, 2025
3.5 ⭐
Trigger warning ⚠️: a 5 year old child goes missing; a child gets kicked out and gets caught squatting/trespassing; an abusive man hitting his wife and stepson; and Tobias' ex tries to slice her own throat in front of their family.
Overall though, it was a cute story about rekindling a past relationship from high school between MMC Noah and FMC Savannah. She views herself as damaged and pushed him away but he never stopped loving her.
Trigger warning ⚠️: a 5 year old child goes missing; a child gets kicked out and gets caught squatting/trespassing; an abusive man hitting his wife and stepson; and Tobias' ex tries to slice her own throat in front of their family.
Overall though, it was a cute story about rekindling a past relationship from high school between MMC Noah and FMC Savannah. She views herself as damaged and pushed him away but he never stopped loving her.
May 11, 2025
I really enjoyed this second-chance romance especially because it addressed a problem that 25% of couples deal with. I love the family dynamics in this book and the willingness to accept others regardless of circumstances. I can't wait for the next book! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 24, 2025
Sweet Romance
Savannah is convinced that she can never be in a real relationship, because she’s had uterine cancer and can never have children. Noah loves her and will do anything to get her to see that, even a fake relationship. I like that she slowly let him in on her issues. I love his family!
Savannah is convinced that she can never be in a real relationship, because she’s had uterine cancer and can never have children. Noah loves her and will do anything to get her to see that, even a fake relationship. I like that she slowly let him in on her issues. I love his family!
May 31, 2025
I really connected to Savannah very fast. Thankfully Noah was there to help her and have that fake relationship. The fake that turns real. I really loved how Noah and Savannah found their love even if Noah loved her since high school. What a great story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 14, 2025
is love enough?
The characters are so real and believable, that I feel I know them. The trials they face are real life issues, their lives aren’t perfect. So, when they face their demons and come together to allow themselves to love, I celebrated with them. I look forward to what comes next for the Barrett’s and the ones they love.
The characters are so real and believable, that I feel I know them. The trials they face are real life issues, their lives aren’t perfect. So, when they face their demons and come together to allow themselves to love, I celebrated with them. I look forward to what comes next for the Barrett’s and the ones they love.
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