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The Heartwood Series
The Ex Project
Second chance? Not a chance in hell.
Cocky, golden-retriever Hudson Landry broke my heart, and I won’t let him forget it.
I’ve avoided Heartwood at all costs. A decade later, I’m back to consult on the new community arts center—and seeing Hudson reignites a red-hot rage that could burn me alive.
Just my luck, his construction company won the bid for the build, so I’m stuck working with my ex. Worse? We’re both competing to lead the project, and only one of us can come out on top.
I swore I’d never forgive him. But he’s everything I fell for ten years ago–sweet, loyal, endlessly kind. He’s reminding me of the girl I used to be…and making me question everything I thought I knew about the boy who broke me.
Now, I can’t remember why I hated him in the first place.
Cocky, golden-retriever Hudson Landry broke my heart, and I won’t let him forget it.
I’ve avoided Heartwood at all costs. A decade later, I’m back to consult on the new community arts center—and seeing Hudson reignites a red-hot rage that could burn me alive.
Just my luck, his construction company won the bid for the build, so I’m stuck working with my ex. Worse? We’re both competing to lead the project, and only one of us can come out on top.
I swore I’d never forgive him. But he’s everything I fell for ten years ago–sweet, loyal, endlessly kind. He’s reminding me of the girl I used to be…and making me question everything I thought I knew about the boy who broke me.
Now, I can’t remember why I hated him in the first place.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2025
9 people are currently reading
167 people want to read
About the author
Meg Riley
3 books48 followersHi! I'm Meg Riley. I'm a Canadian author of small town romance novels set in the heart of the Rocky Mountains! My stories are steamy, spicy, and cute - all of the best flavours of smut!
I live in Calgary, Alberta with my husband and my dog. Writing is currently my side gig - I am a nurse as my day (and night!) job and I feel very lucky to have a job where I can care for others and meet so many interesting humans that inspire me.
Thanks for joining my community of romance readers! I am so happy you're here.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
August 22, 2025
I liked but wasn’t in love with this book. It was a tried and true premise: second chance for a first love, exes forced to work together on an important to the community project. At the outset, Wren, the FMC was prickly and even vindictive toward Hudson the MMC, and both attributed their breakup at the end of senior high to the other. Additionally while she’s got every right to feel some type of way about her parents obviously favoring her sister over her, she’s twenty-eight, not twelve, way past time to let that sh!z go. Honestly, other than her looks, it’s difficult to discern through the first chapters exactly what Hudson saw/sees in Wren.
Hudson somehow despite all the off-putting vibes Wren is pumping out still feels whoever the girl she used to be is still inside her, just waiting to be reawakened by him. (Honestly I’d have been out the moment she dissed his pup, but that’s just me…)
Anyway, of course not everything is what it seems, and they’ve both got things to work through, which they manage to do. Then the question is whether their reconnection is enough of a reason for Wren to stay in their small town or return to Vancouver.
I was furnished an advance reader copy from The Author Agency, and I’m sharing my honest review.
Hudson somehow despite all the off-putting vibes Wren is pumping out still feels whoever the girl she used to be is still inside her, just waiting to be reawakened by him. (Honestly I’d have been out the moment she dissed his pup, but that’s just me…)
Anyway, of course not everything is what it seems, and they’ve both got things to work through, which they manage to do. Then the question is whether their reconnection is enough of a reason for Wren to stay in their small town or return to Vancouver.
I was furnished an advance reader copy from The Author Agency, and I’m sharing my honest review.
August 25, 2025
This was such a refreshing, sweet, thoughtful book! The banter and competition between Landry and Miller was entertaining but there was also a very real aspect relating to those living with mental health struggles. I loved flaws and the resilience of both characters. It was a great read!
September 4, 2025
The Ex Project by Meg Riley
Tropes: Second chance (love to hate to love), small town, open door, mental health rep, grumpy (her) vs sunshine (him), family dynamics
FMC Wren is returning to her small hometown of Heartwood, for a work project as she is a structural engineer for a large firm in Vancouver. She is in line for a promotion within the firm if she does well with this project. As she arrives in town for the summer, she is determined to avoid all contact with her ex, Hudson. 10 years earlier, Hudson broke up with Wren after high school without giving reason and Wren is still holding onto her anger.
MMC, Hudson, is a “ocean blue-eyed” firefighter and contractor for a local construction company. As fate would have it, the two meet and the tension and banter are instant! Lots of fun scenarios bring the two into close proximity throughout the book and things heat ups after Wren needs some extra support and Hudson is there.
I enjoyed this third instalment of The Heartwood Series, even without reading the first 2 books in the series. I plan on going back to read the other 2 books!
Great mix of tropes and open door spice, story flowed well!
Thank you to the author, Meg Riley and @theauthoragency for sending me an e-ARC copy of this new release for my honest review and opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes: Second chance (love to hate to love), small town, open door, mental health rep, grumpy (her) vs sunshine (him), family dynamics
FMC Wren is returning to her small hometown of Heartwood, for a work project as she is a structural engineer for a large firm in Vancouver. She is in line for a promotion within the firm if she does well with this project. As she arrives in town for the summer, she is determined to avoid all contact with her ex, Hudson. 10 years earlier, Hudson broke up with Wren after high school without giving reason and Wren is still holding onto her anger.
MMC, Hudson, is a “ocean blue-eyed” firefighter and contractor for a local construction company. As fate would have it, the two meet and the tension and banter are instant! Lots of fun scenarios bring the two into close proximity throughout the book and things heat ups after Wren needs some extra support and Hudson is there.
I enjoyed this third instalment of The Heartwood Series, even without reading the first 2 books in the series. I plan on going back to read the other 2 books!
Great mix of tropes and open door spice, story flowed well!
Thank you to the author, Meg Riley and @theauthoragency for sending me an e-ARC copy of this new release for my honest review and opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 29, 2025
So we all know how much I loved The Boyfriend Boycott… well Wren and Hudson were just as wonderful as Grady and Spencer! Wren has some pretty big walls up around her heart to keep everyone out and Hudson, sweet Hudson, has his work cut out for him! This book had laughs, emotional moments and sweet pupper sidekick moments! This is a very enjoyable spicy, small town, second chance, love to dislike to love romance! Thank you for the ARC for review!
September 23, 2025
struggled with this one
It’s a very common trope, ex meet up after a long time with a bad break up in the past, etc etc. Just wasn’t interesting enough. The characters were shallow and the MFC came across as petty and hung up. I couldn’t finish it. Just don’t have the patience to struggle through a story where there was no connecting with the characters, the setting, or the story.
It’s a very common trope, ex meet up after a long time with a bad break up in the past, etc etc. Just wasn’t interesting enough. The characters were shallow and the MFC came across as petty and hung up. I couldn’t finish it. Just don’t have the patience to struggle through a story where there was no connecting with the characters, the setting, or the story.
December 21, 2025
"…𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒊𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑵𝒐 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒈𝒐𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒈𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒏 𝒊𝒕."
Big thanks to the author for this ARC! This book is perfect for anyone who loves second chances, small towns, and MMCs who never stopped loving their first (and only) love.
Wren returns to Heartwood after ten years, determined to never forgive Hudson. But between the banter, the rivalry over the community center project, and all that unresolved tension, resisting him is nearly impossible. Honestly, I couldn’t decide if I wanted them to finally kiss or keep bickering forever; their chemistry is that electric.
Hudson is the perfect golden-retriever hero: sweet, loyal, and just the right amount of cocky. And yes, Hudson also happens to be a (very handsome) firefighter. So when Wren calls in an emergency and comes to her door, all protective and ready to fix things, you know you’ll definitely swoon.
Wren came back to her childhood home and seemed perfect and polished, but sometimes the devil is in the details. She struggled her whole life to be the right daughter, to have the approval of her parents, and to follow the things they wanted.
And I really enjoyed how the mental health rep blended into the story. The way he still looks at her after all those years? MELT. And the way Wren rediscovers herself is simply adorable.
The arts center project was such a great setting for the story, with forced proximity, competition, and plenty of romantic tension. The book also had the perfect blend of small-town charm, old wounds, and push-and-pull drama that kept me rooting for them to get back together (even if I wanted a little more depth in the why behind their breakup).
Overall, this got a touch of drama, a dash of romance, and a couple you’ll find yourself rooting for. It’s the perfect read for a cozy weekend.
Big thanks to the author for this ARC! This book is perfect for anyone who loves second chances, small towns, and MMCs who never stopped loving their first (and only) love.
Wren returns to Heartwood after ten years, determined to never forgive Hudson. But between the banter, the rivalry over the community center project, and all that unresolved tension, resisting him is nearly impossible. Honestly, I couldn’t decide if I wanted them to finally kiss or keep bickering forever; their chemistry is that electric.
Hudson is the perfect golden-retriever hero: sweet, loyal, and just the right amount of cocky. And yes, Hudson also happens to be a (very handsome) firefighter. So when Wren calls in an emergency and comes to her door, all protective and ready to fix things, you know you’ll definitely swoon.
Wren came back to her childhood home and seemed perfect and polished, but sometimes the devil is in the details. She struggled her whole life to be the right daughter, to have the approval of her parents, and to follow the things they wanted.
And I really enjoyed how the mental health rep blended into the story. The way he still looks at her after all those years? MELT. And the way Wren rediscovers herself is simply adorable.
The arts center project was such a great setting for the story, with forced proximity, competition, and plenty of romantic tension. The book also had the perfect blend of small-town charm, old wounds, and push-and-pull drama that kept me rooting for them to get back together (even if I wanted a little more depth in the why behind their breakup).
Overall, this got a touch of drama, a dash of romance, and a couple you’ll find yourself rooting for. It’s the perfect read for a cozy weekend.
Read
December 24, 2025DNF
September 2, 2025
This is my first Meg Riley book and I adore this cover. When I saw the tropes, I signed up for the ARC right away because second chance romances are some of my favorite reads ever. It's because it's one of my favorite tropes that I feel I am more critical about them.
So this book is about Wren and Hudson. Both were together when they were in their late teens but had to break up because of a huge miscommunication. Fact is, they were also very young and have made stupid assumptions and decisions as well. That is neither here nor there. They meet again after 10 years, vying for a lead for a job building the small town's arts center. Both have vested interest in getting the lead for that project so a whole competition on who will get it ensued. Of course, because they are very familiar with each other and have history, they are pretty much drawn to each other. Both have dated but no one really stuck because they've always been each other's person.
I really like the mental health/anxiety representation in this book and how significant words are especially if it comes from our own family themselves. That is what Wren was going through her whole life - having parents who demand success and sometimes show favoritism between their daughters. Hudson showed up big time for Wren as soon as he realizes what she is going through and have been her anchor. I loved the banter and the competitive streak between the MCs. It was very playful and made up for the romance. It was also appropriately spicy. I didn't think it was too much or less. It was just right.
What I didn't like (and this is for all second chance romances) is when the issue why they had to break up is not hashed out and not properly resolved. That's how I felt with Wren and Hudson. Yes, they got to the bottom of it but the book ended and I felt like it was not resolved properly - like it was brushed under the rug. The huge miscommunication was also a bit irritating. What do you mean he took that the wrong way and broke up with her because of it?
Overall, it was an okay read for me. Probably won't be reaching for it for a reread but it was a good buffer read in between heavy books.
Thank you to the Author Agency for the eARC!
So this book is about Wren and Hudson. Both were together when they were in their late teens but had to break up because of a huge miscommunication. Fact is, they were also very young and have made stupid assumptions and decisions as well. That is neither here nor there. They meet again after 10 years, vying for a lead for a job building the small town's arts center. Both have vested interest in getting the lead for that project so a whole competition on who will get it ensued. Of course, because they are very familiar with each other and have history, they are pretty much drawn to each other. Both have dated but no one really stuck because they've always been each other's person.
I really like the mental health/anxiety representation in this book and how significant words are especially if it comes from our own family themselves. That is what Wren was going through her whole life - having parents who demand success and sometimes show favoritism between their daughters. Hudson showed up big time for Wren as soon as he realizes what she is going through and have been her anchor. I loved the banter and the competitive streak between the MCs. It was very playful and made up for the romance. It was also appropriately spicy. I didn't think it was too much or less. It was just right.
What I didn't like (and this is for all second chance romances) is when the issue why they had to break up is not hashed out and not properly resolved. That's how I felt with Wren and Hudson. Yes, they got to the bottom of it but the book ended and I felt like it was not resolved properly - like it was brushed under the rug. The huge miscommunication was also a bit irritating. What do you mean he took that the wrong way and broke up with her because of it?
Overall, it was an okay read for me. Probably won't be reaching for it for a reread but it was a good buffer read in between heavy books.
Thank you to the Author Agency for the eARC!
August 26, 2025
3.5 rounded up
Wren has returned to Heartwood to try to earn a promotion at her firm by designing the towns new art centre. She's unexpectedly paired up with the man that broke her heart a decade ago, and is left to fight him for the right to design it. Hudson has a leg up on her as she hasn't returned to Heartwood in ages and she may not know anything about what the town wants, or who she last was when she lived here. It's just her luck that he loves a challenge, and is intent on helping her find herself again.
*****
This was such a sweet and easy contemporary romance. The author is new to me, but I always love to read books set in Canada, especially my local area as it feels more tangible to me. The story had a great start, and Wren was such an interesting and unlikeable character right out of the gates. I tend to enjoy unlikeable leads as the redemption is so good, I was just surprised to find that this one took a really long time to get there. Wren seemed to always assume the worst of others, and always be in her own way, and I kept waiting for her to pull herself together and realize she was the catalyst for her strife.
Hudson on the other hand was the most golden of golden retrievers, and was willing to put up with a lot to rekindle his decade-old love. As sweet as this one was, I did find the pacing to be slower than I prefer, and the story to be predictable, which was therefore less engaging than I'd anticipated. I normally can clear a romance book in a single night and I kept finding myself zoning out or putting it down to do something else, and it took me a few days to finally finish it off.
That being said, if you're looking for a low-stress second chance romance, this one absolutely fits the bill. It has found family moments, very light miscommunication that's resolved expediently so you're not likely to get annoyed, and a swoony MMC who allows the FMC to find herself again.
*****
Thank you to The Author Agency for the Advanced Reader Copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Wren has returned to Heartwood to try to earn a promotion at her firm by designing the towns new art centre. She's unexpectedly paired up with the man that broke her heart a decade ago, and is left to fight him for the right to design it. Hudson has a leg up on her as she hasn't returned to Heartwood in ages and she may not know anything about what the town wants, or who she last was when she lived here. It's just her luck that he loves a challenge, and is intent on helping her find herself again.
*****
This was such a sweet and easy contemporary romance. The author is new to me, but I always love to read books set in Canada, especially my local area as it feels more tangible to me. The story had a great start, and Wren was such an interesting and unlikeable character right out of the gates. I tend to enjoy unlikeable leads as the redemption is so good, I was just surprised to find that this one took a really long time to get there. Wren seemed to always assume the worst of others, and always be in her own way, and I kept waiting for her to pull herself together and realize she was the catalyst for her strife.
Hudson on the other hand was the most golden of golden retrievers, and was willing to put up with a lot to rekindle his decade-old love. As sweet as this one was, I did find the pacing to be slower than I prefer, and the story to be predictable, which was therefore less engaging than I'd anticipated. I normally can clear a romance book in a single night and I kept finding myself zoning out or putting it down to do something else, and it took me a few days to finally finish it off.
That being said, if you're looking for a low-stress second chance romance, this one absolutely fits the bill. It has found family moments, very light miscommunication that's resolved expediently so you're not likely to get annoyed, and a swoony MMC who allows the FMC to find herself again.
*****
Thank you to The Author Agency for the Advanced Reader Copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 9, 2025
The Ex Project by Meg Riley is the third standalone in The Heartwood Series—and it was such a fun and delightful read.
It’s a second-chance romance about a young first love that ended because of insecurities and miscommunication.
After ten years apart, Wren returns to Heartwood, determined to stay away from Hudson (the one who broke her heart by leaving when she went to college). But she ends up becoming his rival in the community center project—and that’s where their second-chance love story begins.
I really liked Hudson (our wonderful firefighter) a lot, and the chemistry between them was a joy to read. Their push-and-pull dynamic was so entertaining. They truly are a perfect match, and I loved how the story ended.
Wren’s mental health struggles felt very real—more common and concerning than many people might think. Issues like anxiety and the constant feeling of “never being enough” are things we must be aware of, especially as parents. She definitely needed someone like Hudson—so supportive and patient—to help break down her walls and allow her to finally embrace who she really is.
Tropes:
Second Chance
Rivals to Lovers
Small Town
Childhood Friends
Mental Health rep
Thank you to the Meg Riley and the Author Agency for the eARC! 🖤
“I love you, too. You ruined me, Miller. For anyone else, I was ruined. You were all I could think about. All I can think about.”
“She’s a mess. She’s sweaty and pale, and doesn’t smell great, but God, I fucking love her. Even as I’m kneeling beside her while she leans over the toilet bowl, scooping her hair up and away from her face, I love her. Even as she constantly fights against being fussed over, I love her. Every version of her.”
“I’ve waited ten years for you to come back to me. For ten years, I’ve been hopelessly in love with the girl that got away. 3650 days, and not one of them went by where I didn’t think about you.”
“Hudson Landry was my first love, my first kiss, my first … everything. And now I get to live the rest of my life knowing he’ll also be all of my lasts.”
It’s a second-chance romance about a young first love that ended because of insecurities and miscommunication.
After ten years apart, Wren returns to Heartwood, determined to stay away from Hudson (the one who broke her heart by leaving when she went to college). But she ends up becoming his rival in the community center project—and that’s where their second-chance love story begins.
I really liked Hudson (our wonderful firefighter) a lot, and the chemistry between them was a joy to read. Their push-and-pull dynamic was so entertaining. They truly are a perfect match, and I loved how the story ended.
Wren’s mental health struggles felt very real—more common and concerning than many people might think. Issues like anxiety and the constant feeling of “never being enough” are things we must be aware of, especially as parents. She definitely needed someone like Hudson—so supportive and patient—to help break down her walls and allow her to finally embrace who she really is.
Tropes:
Second Chance
Rivals to Lovers
Small Town
Childhood Friends
Mental Health rep
Thank you to the Meg Riley and the Author Agency for the eARC! 🖤
“I love you, too. You ruined me, Miller. For anyone else, I was ruined. You were all I could think about. All I can think about.”
“She’s a mess. She’s sweaty and pale, and doesn’t smell great, but God, I fucking love her. Even as I’m kneeling beside her while she leans over the toilet bowl, scooping her hair up and away from her face, I love her. Even as she constantly fights against being fussed over, I love her. Every version of her.”
“I’ve waited ten years for you to come back to me. For ten years, I’ve been hopelessly in love with the girl that got away. 3650 days, and not one of them went by where I didn’t think about you.”
“Hudson Landry was my first love, my first kiss, my first … everything. And now I get to live the rest of my life knowing he’ll also be all of my lasts.”
September 4, 2025
"You ruined me, Miller. For anyone else, I was ruined. You were all I could think about. All I can think about.”
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Needing to land the role as project lead, Wren Miller finds herself back at Heartwood - and back in touch with her high school ex, Hudson Landry. Hudson has his own reason for wanting the role - a hometown pride, and creating an arts centre to honor his late mother. And as they compete and butt heads - they start to remember what drew them together in the first place.
I remember hearing hints of Wren in The Boyfriend Boycott, and it was so cool to get to meet her. I enjoyed her character so much - how she had to make herself as cold as she was to survive, and how coming home and opening up to someone like Hudson helped remind her of what makes her happy.
The miscommunication trope was done so well in this - the events of the past make sense with Hudson’s insecurities and I loved how quick they were to communicate as things came up in the present. It felt so real and refreshing, especially with how they already knew each other.
The Ex Project so has you rooting for second chances and for Wren. The route she took with her job was SUCH a great moment and I was absolutely living through her! The walls she has built really make sense - the moments she has later with Cassie are so nice and it absolutely makes sense how she and Hudson are such a good match. (The last chapter and epilogue had my whole heart!!)
This book is perfect for those who love second chances, strong and capable FMCs, sweet MMCs who make you breakfast and can see right though you, and the most adorable golden retriever ever (Ruby was such a gem!)
(And I always love a series where you get to see old friends - so great to see everyone so happy and so 👀 for Jett and Poppy!)
Tropes & Tags:
🎨 Second Chance
🌷 Rivals to Lovers
💖 Childhood Friends
🎨 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🌷 Anxiety Rep
💖 Open-Door
[I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much to Meg Riley and The Author Agency! 📖]
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Needing to land the role as project lead, Wren Miller finds herself back at Heartwood - and back in touch with her high school ex, Hudson Landry. Hudson has his own reason for wanting the role - a hometown pride, and creating an arts centre to honor his late mother. And as they compete and butt heads - they start to remember what drew them together in the first place.
I remember hearing hints of Wren in The Boyfriend Boycott, and it was so cool to get to meet her. I enjoyed her character so much - how she had to make herself as cold as she was to survive, and how coming home and opening up to someone like Hudson helped remind her of what makes her happy.
The miscommunication trope was done so well in this - the events of the past make sense with Hudson’s insecurities and I loved how quick they were to communicate as things came up in the present. It felt so real and refreshing, especially with how they already knew each other.
The Ex Project so has you rooting for second chances and for Wren. The route she took with her job was SUCH a great moment and I was absolutely living through her! The walls she has built really make sense - the moments she has later with Cassie are so nice and it absolutely makes sense how she and Hudson are such a good match. (The last chapter and epilogue had my whole heart!!)
This book is perfect for those who love second chances, strong and capable FMCs, sweet MMCs who make you breakfast and can see right though you, and the most adorable golden retriever ever (Ruby was such a gem!)
(And I always love a series where you get to see old friends - so great to see everyone so happy and so 👀 for Jett and Poppy!)
Tropes & Tags:
🎨 Second Chance
🌷 Rivals to Lovers
💖 Childhood Friends
🎨 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
🌷 Anxiety Rep
💖 Open-Door
[I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much to Meg Riley and The Author Agency! 📖]
September 4, 2025
Heartwood series: 3
Tasha: 0
Reading this book was like sitting down to watch the cutest small town CW series with a cup of of spice, and a pinch of drama. It gave us two easy to love characters, a heartwarming story of second chances, a healthy dose of competition, an intro to anxiety and a lesson in learning not only how to love yourself, but how to show up for and love others.
Wren is wound so tight. She followed the steps to success set out for her, including leaving her small town to go to a good university, and landing the perfect career. But perfection comes at a cost. Unhappiness. Loneliness. Worrying that she'll never be enough. Not feeling as though anyone understands or accepts her for who she is.
Hudson is easy going. He splits his time between careers in firefighting and construction, both of which he enjoys and excels at. He's built a nice life for himself in his hometown. The only thing missing is someone to share it with. And not just any someone, THE one.
10 yrs ago Hudson broke it off with Wren, but now she's back in town and they're competing to win project lead on the art centre being built in Heartwood.
I loved the back and forth between these two! Whether they were in their hate stage or their love stage they had good banter. They made everything a competition which added an edge to a sweet story. I was swooning over Hudson's unwavering support of Wren.
There was also great mental health rep, as Wren experienced anxiety and panic attacks - I could really relate to Wren in her struggle of doing what was expected of her vs what made her happy. I also loved that Hudson's dog Ruby was trained for emotional support.
This is the 3rd book in the Heartwood series, and I can't believe there's only 1 book left!
Thank you so much to The Author Agency + Meg Riley for the opportunity to read this ARC <3
Tasha: 0
Reading this book was like sitting down to watch the cutest small town CW series with a cup of of spice, and a pinch of drama. It gave us two easy to love characters, a heartwarming story of second chances, a healthy dose of competition, an intro to anxiety and a lesson in learning not only how to love yourself, but how to show up for and love others.
Wren is wound so tight. She followed the steps to success set out for her, including leaving her small town to go to a good university, and landing the perfect career. But perfection comes at a cost. Unhappiness. Loneliness. Worrying that she'll never be enough. Not feeling as though anyone understands or accepts her for who she is.
Hudson is easy going. He splits his time between careers in firefighting and construction, both of which he enjoys and excels at. He's built a nice life for himself in his hometown. The only thing missing is someone to share it with. And not just any someone, THE one.
10 yrs ago Hudson broke it off with Wren, but now she's back in town and they're competing to win project lead on the art centre being built in Heartwood.
I loved the back and forth between these two! Whether they were in their hate stage or their love stage they had good banter. They made everything a competition which added an edge to a sweet story. I was swooning over Hudson's unwavering support of Wren.
There was also great mental health rep, as Wren experienced anxiety and panic attacks - I could really relate to Wren in her struggle of doing what was expected of her vs what made her happy. I also loved that Hudson's dog Ruby was trained for emotional support.
This is the 3rd book in the Heartwood series, and I can't believe there's only 1 book left!
Thank you so much to The Author Agency + Meg Riley for the opportunity to read this ARC <3
September 2, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
This one was extra special to me because it’s written by an Alberta author! I love being able to support local, especially an indie author, and there’s something so fun about reading a book where you actually recognize the places mentioned. It made the whole story feel even more real.
If I’m going to read contemporary romance, I think I’ve found my trope- second chance romance. It’s so relatable, it almost hurts. Maybe that’s why it hits so hard for me: I’m a walking example of second chance romance myself since I married my high school sweetheart.
I really enjoyed the push and pull between Hudson and Wren. Their banter feels so natural, and the way Hudson shifts once he realizes Wren is silently struggling was incredibly sweet. It’s raw and real watching her balance family expectations, school, and a career path chosen more to please her parents (and especially her dad) than for herself. I didn’t personally relate to that side of the story, but I know so many people will, and I found it inspiring to watch her finally choose to make her life her own.
Another layer that really stood out to me is the way the FMC lives with anxiety. It’s written so honestly, and I found it comforting, especially since I’ve had the same experience of struggling quietly for years before finally realizing what it was.
And let me just say: once the spice hits, it doesn’t hold back. It’s slow to start, but when it arrives, it delivers.
Overall, I’d definitely recommend this to romance fans. It’s heartfelt, relatable, and a little steamy in all the right ways. I enjoyed her writing style so much, and I can’t wait to see what this Alberta author puts out next!
This one was extra special to me because it’s written by an Alberta author! I love being able to support local, especially an indie author, and there’s something so fun about reading a book where you actually recognize the places mentioned. It made the whole story feel even more real.
If I’m going to read contemporary romance, I think I’ve found my trope- second chance romance. It’s so relatable, it almost hurts. Maybe that’s why it hits so hard for me: I’m a walking example of second chance romance myself since I married my high school sweetheart.
I really enjoyed the push and pull between Hudson and Wren. Their banter feels so natural, and the way Hudson shifts once he realizes Wren is silently struggling was incredibly sweet. It’s raw and real watching her balance family expectations, school, and a career path chosen more to please her parents (and especially her dad) than for herself. I didn’t personally relate to that side of the story, but I know so many people will, and I found it inspiring to watch her finally choose to make her life her own.
Another layer that really stood out to me is the way the FMC lives with anxiety. It’s written so honestly, and I found it comforting, especially since I’ve had the same experience of struggling quietly for years before finally realizing what it was.
And let me just say: once the spice hits, it doesn’t hold back. It’s slow to start, but when it arrives, it delivers.
Overall, I’d definitely recommend this to romance fans. It’s heartfelt, relatable, and a little steamy in all the right ways. I enjoyed her writing style so much, and I can’t wait to see what this Alberta author puts out next!
September 3, 2025
Thank you to Meg and The Author Agency for this ARC.
Reading this and coming back to Heartwood felt like a warm hug. This was a cute and cozy small town romance filled with many sweet doggo moments (the best character imo) and guest appearances from a handful of quirky and lovable characters from the previous books.
I must admit, both main characters were a bit off-putting at first and annoyed me for various reasons such as how they carried themselves and interacted with others even though both are in their late 20s. But after continuing reading, their actions and feelings were explained and made some sense considering the context. This made reading their character arc and development much more satisfying and encouraged me root for them and their romance harder.
I felt it was generally quite slow paced (it picks up after the 70% ish mark + some time jumps near the end) but the epilogue wraps things up nicely. I would love to see more grovelling and forgiveness though between certain characters but that's just a personal preference.
The Ex Project did a good job at highlighting important life lessons and addressed the conditions of anxiety and panic attacks thoughtfully. Our FMC struggles to be her own person and lives her life according to others. Our MMC deals with insecurities and doubts about self-worth, so clearly they are quite the power couple. I enjoyed reading how both MCs work as a team to rediscover themselves and live their best lives together with their master, Ruby (the doggo).
Would read whatever Meg Riley writes - keen for the next and last couple of the series.
Overall rating: 4/5
Reading this and coming back to Heartwood felt like a warm hug. This was a cute and cozy small town romance filled with many sweet doggo moments (the best character imo) and guest appearances from a handful of quirky and lovable characters from the previous books.
I must admit, both main characters were a bit off-putting at first and annoyed me for various reasons such as how they carried themselves and interacted with others even though both are in their late 20s. But after continuing reading, their actions and feelings were explained and made some sense considering the context. This made reading their character arc and development much more satisfying and encouraged me root for them and their romance harder.
I felt it was generally quite slow paced (it picks up after the 70% ish mark + some time jumps near the end) but the epilogue wraps things up nicely. I would love to see more grovelling and forgiveness though between certain characters but that's just a personal preference.
The Ex Project did a good job at highlighting important life lessons and addressed the conditions of anxiety and panic attacks thoughtfully. Our FMC struggles to be her own person and lives her life according to others. Our MMC deals with insecurities and doubts about self-worth, so clearly they are quite the power couple. I enjoyed reading how both MCs work as a team to rediscover themselves and live their best lives together with their master, Ruby (the doggo).
Would read whatever Meg Riley writes - keen for the next and last couple of the series.
Overall rating: 4/5
September 6, 2025
This story revolves around two of my favorite tropes: second chance and small-town romance, and I began reading expecting something cute and cozy, and that's what I received.
I thought the two main characters were really likable. I like that FMC is the one who is a bit standoffish here, not very often I find a book where the woman is the grump.
I have a bad habit of starting interconnected series in the middle, but the supporting cast is interesting enough that I will definitely read the rest of the series.
However, as much as I want to, I cannot give this story more than 3 stars; there were just too many things that made this miss the mark for me.
First of all, there is a lot of telling, not showing, especially when it comes to FMC's relationship with her family. I wish the author had spent a bit more time showing us why they treat her this way and why they are not in favor of MMC, and just had skipped one or two sex scenes.
Pacing is a bit all over the place - too slow in the beginning and then all of a sudden it speeds up too rapidly as if the author tried to cram every piece of information she had about the characters onto the last pages.
I did like the mental health rep, and the author is quite thoughtful about them. I related to FMC's struggles, and I thought the relationship between her and MMC was adorable.
Overall, I think this is a solid middle-of-the-road read; it did make my heart skip a few beats, and I'm planning on finishing the rest of the series.
I thought the two main characters were really likable. I like that FMC is the one who is a bit standoffish here, not very often I find a book where the woman is the grump.
I have a bad habit of starting interconnected series in the middle, but the supporting cast is interesting enough that I will definitely read the rest of the series.
However, as much as I want to, I cannot give this story more than 3 stars; there were just too many things that made this miss the mark for me.
First of all, there is a lot of telling, not showing, especially when it comes to FMC's relationship with her family. I wish the author had spent a bit more time showing us why they treat her this way and why they are not in favor of MMC, and just had skipped one or two sex scenes.
Pacing is a bit all over the place - too slow in the beginning and then all of a sudden it speeds up too rapidly as if the author tried to cram every piece of information she had about the characters onto the last pages.
I did like the mental health rep, and the author is quite thoughtful about them. I related to FMC's struggles, and I thought the relationship between her and MMC was adorable.
Overall, I think this is a solid middle-of-the-road read; it did make my heart skip a few beats, and I'm planning on finishing the rest of the series.
August 30, 2025
Raw and real female lead, cinnamon roll male lead!!
FMC: No artifice, no bubbly FMC with a sunshine personality, but a female lead that you would actually annoy the reader at first. However, as you read, you will understand her standoffish introduction, her stubbornness and will empathise with her reality.
Second Chance: There is a miscommunication, but not a bad one, because the second time they come out stronger, and the romance felt natural. It is not just a second chance at romance but also at their friendship, which has been heartwarming to read.
Anxiety Rep: I like any book that doesn't misrepresent this trope or make itself out to be the expert on the topic. The detailed reasoning behind the panic attacks and the measures taken to address them have been written with care and consideration.
Missed opportunity: I would have appreciated a more authentic conversation between the female lead and her parent before their reconciliation. A more detailed discussion where she could express her anxiety and trauma stemming from their neglect and control, given the extensive POV we had to read. It felt like a missed opportunity, as if we were deprived of something as readers.
All in all, a good read!!
FMC: No artifice, no bubbly FMC with a sunshine personality, but a female lead that you would actually annoy the reader at first. However, as you read, you will understand her standoffish introduction, her stubbornness and will empathise with her reality.
Second Chance: There is a miscommunication, but not a bad one, because the second time they come out stronger, and the romance felt natural. It is not just a second chance at romance but also at their friendship, which has been heartwarming to read.
Anxiety Rep: I like any book that doesn't misrepresent this trope or make itself out to be the expert on the topic. The detailed reasoning behind the panic attacks and the measures taken to address them have been written with care and consideration.
Missed opportunity: I would have appreciated a more authentic conversation between the female lead and her parent before their reconciliation. A more detailed discussion where she could express her anxiety and trauma stemming from their neglect and control, given the extensive POV we had to read. It felt like a missed opportunity, as if we were deprived of something as readers.
All in all, a good read!!
September 1, 2025
The Ex Project | Meg Riley
4☆
*ARC review*
Releasing tomorrow, September 2nd!
Book #3 in the Heartwood Series
🐶🦮🐾🍕🔥🚒
Hudson Landry broke Wren’s heart many years ago and she’s avoided Heartwood ever since. Having just landed a consulting job for Heartwood’s new art centre, she is back in the community, and just her luck.. Hudson’s company got the construction contract. To make matters worse, the project lead can’t fulfill her duties and Hudson and Wren are left to battle it out for the lead position. Having a decade of space between them, Wren begins to question everything and why she hated him in the first place.
Although not my favourite of the series (but #2), it was such a captivating read! Meg has the capability of making the reader feel as though they are a part of the story. I always end up liking the characters and am rooting for them, even if they are intolerable at times. Set in the Canadian Rockies, Meg’s books are such comfort reads for me that I will pick up every time.
“𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯, 𝘔𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳. 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘬𝘪𝘴𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘱. 𝘐’𝘮 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘮𝘯 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
A huge thank you to @megrileyauthor and @theauthor.agency for this ARC 🫶🏼🩵
4☆
*ARC review*
Releasing tomorrow, September 2nd!
Book #3 in the Heartwood Series
🐶🦮🐾🍕🔥🚒
Hudson Landry broke Wren’s heart many years ago and she’s avoided Heartwood ever since. Having just landed a consulting job for Heartwood’s new art centre, she is back in the community, and just her luck.. Hudson’s company got the construction contract. To make matters worse, the project lead can’t fulfill her duties and Hudson and Wren are left to battle it out for the lead position. Having a decade of space between them, Wren begins to question everything and why she hated him in the first place.
Although not my favourite of the series (but #2), it was such a captivating read! Meg has the capability of making the reader feel as though they are a part of the story. I always end up liking the characters and am rooting for them, even if they are intolerable at times. Set in the Canadian Rockies, Meg’s books are such comfort reads for me that I will pick up every time.
“𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯, 𝘔𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳. 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘬𝘪𝘴𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘱. 𝘐’𝘮 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘮𝘯 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
A huge thank you to @megrileyauthor and @theauthor.agency for this ARC 🫶🏼🩵
August 28, 2025
This is book three in the Heartwood Series, but I read it as a standalone and had no trouble following along. I thought it was such a heartwarming story about love, growth, and second chances.
Wren is prickly, independent, and carries a lot of past pain. She has always struggled with feeling overlooked by her family and is quick to assume the worst of others. I loved seeing her slowly work through these feelings while rediscovering herself. Her journey of self-discovery was relatable and heartfelt.
Hudson is the most selfless person. He is patient, supportive, and always puts Wren’s mental health first. Even when faced with her initial hostility, he never gives up on her. Watching him gently guide her back to trust and love while dealing with his own past heartbreak was enough to make my heart melt.
I hated how much pain these two had from the past but loved when they finally knocked down their protective walls and gave in to the feelings they never let go of. The description of Wren's panic was so vivid and truly explained something most people haven’t experienced. I loved how her mental health was such a big priority for Hudson. Everyone deserves someone who puts their mental health first. Hudson was such an amazing guy and while he did what he thought was best for Wren, it hurt my heart for the pain he went through.
Overall, this was a sweet and emotional romance. The story is full of heart, self-discovery, and a captivating second-chance romance. Wren and Hudson’s journey to reconnect and find each other again is perfect, and I would recommend this to anyone looking for a low-stress, heartfelt read.
Wren is prickly, independent, and carries a lot of past pain. She has always struggled with feeling overlooked by her family and is quick to assume the worst of others. I loved seeing her slowly work through these feelings while rediscovering herself. Her journey of self-discovery was relatable and heartfelt.
Hudson is the most selfless person. He is patient, supportive, and always puts Wren’s mental health first. Even when faced with her initial hostility, he never gives up on her. Watching him gently guide her back to trust and love while dealing with his own past heartbreak was enough to make my heart melt.
I hated how much pain these two had from the past but loved when they finally knocked down their protective walls and gave in to the feelings they never let go of. The description of Wren's panic was so vivid and truly explained something most people haven’t experienced. I loved how her mental health was such a big priority for Hudson. Everyone deserves someone who puts their mental health first. Hudson was such an amazing guy and while he did what he thought was best for Wren, it hurt my heart for the pain he went through.
Overall, this was a sweet and emotional romance. The story is full of heart, self-discovery, and a captivating second-chance romance. Wren and Hudson’s journey to reconnect and find each other again is perfect, and I would recommend this to anyone looking for a low-stress, heartfelt read.
September 3, 2025
We are back in Heartwood, but this time we have Wren and Hudson's story. Meg Riley has written another fantastic romcom with wonderful characters. This was a friends to lovers to enemies to rivals trope, and I enjoyed it quite a bit! When they graduated high school, Wren went to college in the big city while Hudson stayed behind in their small town. A month into college, Hudson broke-up with Wren, but it was (VERY) misguided. Fast forward 10 years later, Wren is back in town to represent her company on a municipal building project as the structural engineer. OF COURSE, we know who she has to work with on it... Throughout the story, we see Wren deal with her family dynamics, the pressure of a high-powered job, her competitive nature, and her mental health while grappling with whatever feelings she may have left for Hudson. Hudson, on the other hand, is now a successful contractor and Heartwood firefighter with a canine sidekick Ruby who he trained as a comfort dog. He hasn't let a day go by without thinking of Wren, but he's not sure he likes the new her. This does have some spicy scenes as the characters work out what they mean to one another. Thank you Meg Riley and The Author Agency for an advance reader copy of this book!
September 5, 2025
This is the 3rd book in the Heartwood series, but can be read as a stand alone.
Hudson (MMC) never truly moved on from his high school sweetheart, Wren (FMC). A decade later, fate throws them back together—designing a new community arts center. Hudson finds that Wren has changed. She now seems guarded, sharp, and prickly.
Both have a vested interest in getting the lead for the project. I really enjoyed the rivalry and banter between the two.
I also enjoyed watching them challenge each other, work through their past pains, and eventually learn to come together as a team.
I also thought the mental health/anxiety representation in this book was done well.
Ruby, Hudson’s golden retriever and loyal emotional support animal, was easily my favorite side character. She brought so much charm and heart to the story.
This book delivered everything I love in a second-chance romance: angst, competition, and growth.
If you looking for a heartwarming, small town, second chance romance with spice, pick this one up!
A hugh thanks to @megrileyauthor and @theauthor.agency for the eARC!
Hudson (MMC) never truly moved on from his high school sweetheart, Wren (FMC). A decade later, fate throws them back together—designing a new community arts center. Hudson finds that Wren has changed. She now seems guarded, sharp, and prickly.
Both have a vested interest in getting the lead for the project. I really enjoyed the rivalry and banter between the two.
I also enjoyed watching them challenge each other, work through their past pains, and eventually learn to come together as a team.
I also thought the mental health/anxiety representation in this book was done well.
Ruby, Hudson’s golden retriever and loyal emotional support animal, was easily my favorite side character. She brought so much charm and heart to the story.
This book delivered everything I love in a second-chance romance: angst, competition, and growth.
If you looking for a heartwarming, small town, second chance romance with spice, pick this one up!
A hugh thanks to @megrileyauthor and @theauthor.agency for the eARC!
September 13, 2025
If you’re looking for a captivating read, look no further than "The Ex Project" by Meg Riley, the third standalone installment in The Heartwood Series. This book is not just a story; it’s a delightful journey into the world of second-chance romance.
Wren and Hudson’s tale begins with a bittersweet first love that faltered due to insecurities and miscommunication, only to be reignited a decade later. When Wren returns to Heartwood, she is determined to steer clear of Hudson, the one who left her heartbroken as he pursued college. Yet, fate has other plans, as they become rivals in a community center project. This unexpected competition serves as the perfect backdrop for their rekindled love story.
Hudson, the charming firefighter, is a character you'll grow to love, and the chemistry between him and Wren leaps off the pages. Their engaging push-and-pull dynamic keeps you turning the pages, making it impossible to resist their connection. This duo is truly a match made in heaven, and the conclusion of their journey is nothing short of satisfying. Don’t miss the chance to experience this wonderful story!
Wren and Hudson’s tale begins with a bittersweet first love that faltered due to insecurities and miscommunication, only to be reignited a decade later. When Wren returns to Heartwood, she is determined to steer clear of Hudson, the one who left her heartbroken as he pursued college. Yet, fate has other plans, as they become rivals in a community center project. This unexpected competition serves as the perfect backdrop for their rekindled love story.
Hudson, the charming firefighter, is a character you'll grow to love, and the chemistry between him and Wren leaps off the pages. Their engaging push-and-pull dynamic keeps you turning the pages, making it impossible to resist their connection. This duo is truly a match made in heaven, and the conclusion of their journey is nothing short of satisfying. Don’t miss the chance to experience this wonderful story!
September 4, 2025
- A swoony, heartfelt second-chance romance that proves love isn’t free—it’s fought for.
“Second chance? Not a chance in hell.”
That’s the line that hooked me—and the story delivered exactly what I hoped for.
Wren’s return to Heartwood sets the stage for a delicious mix of tension, unresolved feelings, and laugh-out-loud banter with her ex, Hudson Landry.
Their dynamic feels authentic—two people with history, carrying old hurts, and figuring out if there’s still something worth saving.
I loved how relatable their emotions were. It’s messy, raw, and exactly how you’d imagine running into the one who once broke your heart.
Ruby, with her sweet charm, added so much warmth to the story and made the whole book even more endearing.
What stood out most to me is how Meg Riley explored second chances in a grounded, realistic way. They aren’t free passes—they take effort, honesty, and teamwork. The story reminded me that sometimes, home isn’t just where you live. It’s the person you find your way back to.
A heartfelt, fun, and swoony second-chance romance that I couldn’t put down.
“Second chance? Not a chance in hell.”
That’s the line that hooked me—and the story delivered exactly what I hoped for.
Wren’s return to Heartwood sets the stage for a delicious mix of tension, unresolved feelings, and laugh-out-loud banter with her ex, Hudson Landry.
Their dynamic feels authentic—two people with history, carrying old hurts, and figuring out if there’s still something worth saving.
I loved how relatable their emotions were. It’s messy, raw, and exactly how you’d imagine running into the one who once broke your heart.
Ruby, with her sweet charm, added so much warmth to the story and made the whole book even more endearing.
What stood out most to me is how Meg Riley explored second chances in a grounded, realistic way. They aren’t free passes—they take effort, honesty, and teamwork. The story reminded me that sometimes, home isn’t just where you live. It’s the person you find your way back to.
A heartfelt, fun, and swoony second-chance romance that I couldn’t put down.
September 5, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This is my first Meg Riley book and I enjoyed it! I thought Hudson was sooo so sweet and really likeable. He’s thoughtful and kind, and isn’t afraid to show his emotions. I had mixed feelings when it came to Wren, there were times where I liked her and sympathized with her and others where I felt she was self centered and placed all the blame on Hudson. I liked the mental health representation and how attentive Hudson was to Wren’s struggles and needs once he realized how she was feeling, and even before she was aware of how she was feeling herself. It’s hard with second chance romances, especially when the couple were together so young as it hinges on the miscommunication between them and it either works or falls a bit flat. I think it was alright in this book, I wasn’t crazy about how it was resolved and all wrapped up. Overall it was a good read and I’m looking forward to reading the other books in the series!
Thank you to Meg Riley and The Author Agency for providing me with an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is my first Meg Riley book and I enjoyed it! I thought Hudson was sooo so sweet and really likeable. He’s thoughtful and kind, and isn’t afraid to show his emotions. I had mixed feelings when it came to Wren, there were times where I liked her and sympathized with her and others where I felt she was self centered and placed all the blame on Hudson. I liked the mental health representation and how attentive Hudson was to Wren’s struggles and needs once he realized how she was feeling, and even before she was aware of how she was feeling herself. It’s hard with second chance romances, especially when the couple were together so young as it hinges on the miscommunication between them and it either works or falls a bit flat. I think it was alright in this book, I wasn’t crazy about how it was resolved and all wrapped up. Overall it was a good read and I’m looking forward to reading the other books in the series!
Thank you to Meg Riley and The Author Agency for providing me with an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 5, 2025
3.5⭐️!
The Ex Project was a great romance read. I truly love the small town of Heartwood and all of the characters. It’s such a heartwarming series! I also love that we got some anxiety representation this time around!
I loved Wren and Hudson’s little games and the way they were keeping score with each other (as well as their email exchanges). I think that aspect of their relationship made things fun and I wish we got to see more things like that (and maybe also some flashbacks to when they were together in the past)! I think it would have made me really connect with the two of them more than I did since their relationship felt a little flat to me.
I also think this book solidified the fact that I don’t always love the second chance romance trope. Mix that in with the miscommunication trope and you get a book that’s not quite my cup of tea. However, that doesn’t mean others can’t love it! I definitely think there’s a lot of promising aspects to the book that others may like a lot more than I did!
Thank you so much to Meg Riley and The Author Agency for an advanced copy!
The Ex Project was a great romance read. I truly love the small town of Heartwood and all of the characters. It’s such a heartwarming series! I also love that we got some anxiety representation this time around!
I loved Wren and Hudson’s little games and the way they were keeping score with each other (as well as their email exchanges). I think that aspect of their relationship made things fun and I wish we got to see more things like that (and maybe also some flashbacks to when they were together in the past)! I think it would have made me really connect with the two of them more than I did since their relationship felt a little flat to me.
I also think this book solidified the fact that I don’t always love the second chance romance trope. Mix that in with the miscommunication trope and you get a book that’s not quite my cup of tea. However, that doesn’t mean others can’t love it! I definitely think there’s a lot of promising aspects to the book that others may like a lot more than I did!
Thank you so much to Meg Riley and The Author Agency for an advanced copy!
September 8, 2025
Thank you so much to The Author Agency for the gifted review copy!
I’m obsessed with this series, that’s no secret, so when Meg said she was writing a story with a golden retriever in it I was so excited. Getting little peeks into Hudson and Wren prior to her return to Heartwood (from the other books in the series) set the stage for an awesome story and The Ex Project definitely came through.
I think I’ll always be a Grady girl at heart (wink wink), but Hudson is a close second. His love for people is so amazing and I imagine it’s hard to find what’s truly for you when your every move is so selfless. Not to mention he’s naughty and I’m all about that! lol. Seeing Wren’s journey of self-exploration/love was tear-inducing on multiple occasions. I adore this author on a human level too, which I feel lends to the reading experience. She’s a gem!!
To Meg, Stryder and I are so honored to have been a little piece of inspiration for you. He’s the best part of my life and he would 100% be besties with Ruby in real life. I can’t wait to see what you write next!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (rounded to 5 for GR/Amazon)
🌶️🌶️.5
I’m obsessed with this series, that’s no secret, so when Meg said she was writing a story with a golden retriever in it I was so excited. Getting little peeks into Hudson and Wren prior to her return to Heartwood (from the other books in the series) set the stage for an awesome story and The Ex Project definitely came through.
I think I’ll always be a Grady girl at heart (wink wink), but Hudson is a close second. His love for people is so amazing and I imagine it’s hard to find what’s truly for you when your every move is so selfless. Not to mention he’s naughty and I’m all about that! lol. Seeing Wren’s journey of self-exploration/love was tear-inducing on multiple occasions. I adore this author on a human level too, which I feel lends to the reading experience. She’s a gem!!
To Meg, Stryder and I are so honored to have been a little piece of inspiration for you. He’s the best part of my life and he would 100% be besties with Ruby in real life. I can’t wait to see what you write next!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (rounded to 5 for GR/Amazon)
🌶️🌶️.5
September 24, 2025
Me cansó Hudson con sus comparaciones entre la Wren del presente y la del pasado. Obviamente no iba a ser la misma, habían pasado diez años y ella había madurado, pero él se la pasaba diciendo que ahora era más seria, más creída y otras tonterías. Parecía que lo que buscaba era alguien que lo hiciera reír, un payaso, pero no a Wren. Estaba más enamorado del recuerdo y aferrado a traer de vuelta a la antigua Wren en lugar de intentar conocerla tal como es ahora.
Tampoco me gustó cómo se manejó lo del trabajo de Wren. La presentan como alguien talentosa y excelente en lo que hace, pero en el concurso no dio una: su propuesta fue terrible. Entiendo que la finalidad era que se diera cuenta de que no era feliz en ese ámbito, pero no era necesario hacerla quedar mal para justificar que decidiera dedicarse a otra cosa. O, en todo caso, no debieron presentarla como alguien tan talentosa si Hudson iba a ganarle tan fácil.
Además, Emma no debió contarle a Hudson que Wren sufría ataques de pánico sin preguntarle antes si estaba de acuerdo en compartir esa información.
Tampoco me gustó cómo se manejó lo del trabajo de Wren. La presentan como alguien talentosa y excelente en lo que hace, pero en el concurso no dio una: su propuesta fue terrible. Entiendo que la finalidad era que se diera cuenta de que no era feliz en ese ámbito, pero no era necesario hacerla quedar mal para justificar que decidiera dedicarse a otra cosa. O, en todo caso, no debieron presentarla como alguien tan talentosa si Hudson iba a ganarle tan fácil.
Además, Emma no debió contarle a Hudson que Wren sufría ataques de pánico sin preguntarle antes si estaba de acuerdo en compartir esa información.
August 22, 2025
This was a somewhat predictable sweet second chance romance. Hudson and Wren were childhood friends turned lovers, before insecurities and expectations broke them up and they went their own way. But neither of them really ever got over each other. While Wren and Hudson work on trying to unpack the mistakes made in their first round of a relationship, they have to decide if they can make their second round work or not.
This story really centres around a sense of identity, and being true to yourself which is a beautiful message and well tied in throughout the book. We see both main characters go through periods of self doubt, with representation of anxiety, parental approval issues, miscommunication amongst family, and feeling like you can't fit in to the other person's world.
I love those themes throughout this book. But for there was also just nothing about the book that hit that much differently to what else is out there. I'm still keen to try the author's other works!
This story really centres around a sense of identity, and being true to yourself which is a beautiful message and well tied in throughout the book. We see both main characters go through periods of self doubt, with representation of anxiety, parental approval issues, miscommunication amongst family, and feeling like you can't fit in to the other person's world.
I love those themes throughout this book. But for there was also just nothing about the book that hit that much differently to what else is out there. I'm still keen to try the author's other works!
September 2, 2025
The Ex Project by Meg Riley (ARC Review)
SPOILERS BELOW
My thoughts: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"We spent so many years at each other’s throats, we didn’t even realize how much more powerful we are together."
So honestly when I first started reading this book, I wasn’t a huge fan of Wren, but I ended up really enjoying how she and Hudson developed throughout the book and how their characters grew.
Watching Wren shred through her people pleasing ways and leave her horrible, draining job while coming back to her roots was something else, and it was also nice to see Hudson after being so strong and dependable actually show how scared he was that they might be repeating the same mistakes of their youth.
To have Wren show up for him in such a statement way was incredible. She not only proved to him that they were different people now, but she managed to work towards fixing her relationship with her sister as well.
I do wish that we got to see a bit more of the reconciliation with Wren’s parents since it went from basically disownment to her father walking her down the aisle. But aside from that I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait for Jett and Poppy as the final heartwood installment! (Since I’ve literally been screaming into my kindle about them since reading The Boyfriend Boycott! Seriously, my dog has had enough of my book rants!)
The Ex Project releases today and is available on amazon and kindle unlimited!
💬 Have you read the Heartwood series yet?
A huge thank you to @Megriley and @theauthoragency for providing me with an arc copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
SPOILERS BELOW
My thoughts: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"We spent so many years at each other’s throats, we didn’t even realize how much more powerful we are together."
So honestly when I first started reading this book, I wasn’t a huge fan of Wren, but I ended up really enjoying how she and Hudson developed throughout the book and how their characters grew.
Watching Wren shred through her people pleasing ways and leave her horrible, draining job while coming back to her roots was something else, and it was also nice to see Hudson after being so strong and dependable actually show how scared he was that they might be repeating the same mistakes of their youth.
To have Wren show up for him in such a statement way was incredible. She not only proved to him that they were different people now, but she managed to work towards fixing her relationship with her sister as well.
I do wish that we got to see a bit more of the reconciliation with Wren’s parents since it went from basically disownment to her father walking her down the aisle. But aside from that I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait for Jett and Poppy as the final heartwood installment! (Since I’ve literally been screaming into my kindle about them since reading The Boyfriend Boycott! Seriously, my dog has had enough of my book rants!)
The Ex Project releases today and is available on amazon and kindle unlimited!
💬 Have you read the Heartwood series yet?
A huge thank you to @Megriley and @theauthoragency for providing me with an arc copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2025
I am absolutely loving this series. Meg has done such an amazing job of making her characters so realistic. They all have flaws and things that they have to work through in order to be better for themselves & their relationships. I feel like too often at least one of the characters comes off as “perfect” and sometimes it works, but I love a story where I can see myself in the characters and Meg does that beautifully.
I loved Wren & Hudson, they definitely tried, but they did not take over the top spot of my favorite couple in this series. If you are looking for a second chance romance where mental health is addressed, then this is definitely one you should pick up! If you’re looking for a cute small town series that features eternally single brothers falling one by one, then absolutely start with Love On Call! I promise you won’t regret it!
Thank you Meg Riley & The Author Agency for letting me read an ARC of this one!
I loved Wren & Hudson, they definitely tried, but they did not take over the top spot of my favorite couple in this series. If you are looking for a second chance romance where mental health is addressed, then this is definitely one you should pick up! If you’re looking for a cute small town series that features eternally single brothers falling one by one, then absolutely start with Love On Call! I promise you won’t regret it!
Thank you Meg Riley & The Author Agency for letting me read an ARC of this one!
September 3, 2025
Dual POV
Hate to love • Golden Retriever x Black cat • second chance romance • Rivals
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
The Ex Project is book three in the Heartwood series and we are following Wren and Hudson’s story - two people, with an unpleasant past and who cannot stand each other. They are both fighting for the contractor bid for the local community arts centre and both have their reasons why they want to be the lead.
This was a cute, fun read! I loved the banter and the chemistry between the two main characters. At first i was quite prickly and turned off of the main character Wren (who I loved in the other books) - I felt she was quite immature in the beginning of the book - and it took a bit for her to grow on me. I found myself laughing along at their banter and antics - like just kiss already! This book also has the cutest golden sidekick who brought sweet tender moments throughout.
Overall I really enjoyed this read and it was fun to dive back into the town of Heartwood.
Hate to love • Golden Retriever x Black cat • second chance romance • Rivals
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
The Ex Project is book three in the Heartwood series and we are following Wren and Hudson’s story - two people, with an unpleasant past and who cannot stand each other. They are both fighting for the contractor bid for the local community arts centre and both have their reasons why they want to be the lead.
This was a cute, fun read! I loved the banter and the chemistry between the two main characters. At first i was quite prickly and turned off of the main character Wren (who I loved in the other books) - I felt she was quite immature in the beginning of the book - and it took a bit for her to grow on me. I found myself laughing along at their banter and antics - like just kiss already! This book also has the cutest golden sidekick who brought sweet tender moments throughout.
Overall I really enjoyed this read and it was fun to dive back into the town of Heartwood.
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