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Chasing Kensie
She moved to Alaska for a fresh start. He made her the object of his wry affection.
Kensington Smith, a high school English teacher fueled by coffee and plaid, looks for the good in people. The hot-but-vexing P.E. teacher and football coach, who is unfortunately her best friend’s older brother, is the exception. When he’s tapped to assist her with the annual Winter Solstice Dance, he rewrites Kensie’s long-held lesson plans of loathing as he reveals the man behind the flirtatious façade.
Nicolas Lancaster has a little thing for the pretentious, people-pleasing English teacher of Crescent Cove High School… a thing where he revels in riling her up. But as his proclivities shift and he chases the heart of the woman he’s taught to despise him, Nick begins to understand the pain behind the practiced smile she dons—a mirror that reflects his own inner demons.
Two hearts. Two histories.
One source of Hope.
Chasing Kensie is a Christian contemporary romance sparkling with Alaskan winters, unknown feelings, and a love that will light up the darkest of nights.
Kensington Smith, a high school English teacher fueled by coffee and plaid, looks for the good in people. The hot-but-vexing P.E. teacher and football coach, who is unfortunately her best friend’s older brother, is the exception. When he’s tapped to assist her with the annual Winter Solstice Dance, he rewrites Kensie’s long-held lesson plans of loathing as he reveals the man behind the flirtatious façade.
Nicolas Lancaster has a little thing for the pretentious, people-pleasing English teacher of Crescent Cove High School… a thing where he revels in riling her up. But as his proclivities shift and he chases the heart of the woman he’s taught to despise him, Nick begins to understand the pain behind the practiced smile she dons—a mirror that reflects his own inner demons.
Two hearts. Two histories.
One source of Hope.
Chasing Kensie is a Christian contemporary romance sparkling with Alaskan winters, unknown feelings, and a love that will light up the darkest of nights.
ebook
Published December 23, 2025
37 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Drew Taylor
24 books420 followersDrew Taylor writes modern closed-door chick-lit romance stories from a Biblical worldview. She believes faith-based romance can be full of heart, humor, healing, and hope while showcasing the reality of our fallen human condition. Her redemptive and engaging stories point to the One who embodies true love–Jesus Christ.
Drew lives in the great state of Mississippi where she teaches high school English. When not teaching or writing, she enjoys reading, baking, researching conspiracy theories, and spending quality time with the people who mean the most to her.
Follow Drew:
Instagram: @authordrewtaylor
Facebook: Drew Taylor, Author
TikTok: @drewtaylorwrites
Pinterest: @authordrewtaylor
YouTube: @authordrewtaylor
Drew lives in the great state of Mississippi where she teaches high school English. When not teaching or writing, she enjoys reading, baking, researching conspiracy theories, and spending quality time with the people who mean the most to her.
Follow Drew:
Instagram: @authordrewtaylor
Facebook: Drew Taylor, Author
TikTok: @drewtaylorwrites
Pinterest: @authordrewtaylor
YouTube: @authordrewtaylor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
December 8, 2025
Dear Reader,
Enjoy this story.
It’s one of growth, communication, love, & acceptance. Messy characters who mature as the story unfolds. Plot threads that weave, coming together at the very end. It’s a story of healing through the love of Jesus. <3 The journey is beautiful, so sit down with your favorite beverage and blanket and immerse yourself into Crescent Cove, Alaska.
Enjoy this story.
It’s one of growth, communication, love, & acceptance. Messy characters who mature as the story unfolds. Plot threads that weave, coming together at the very end. It’s a story of healing through the love of Jesus. <3 The journey is beautiful, so sit down with your favorite beverage and blanket and immerse yourself into Crescent Cove, Alaska.
December 9, 2025
A total rollercoaster of emotions! Absolutely worth the read! If you love playful banter, forced proximity, and a strong thread of faith woven throughout the story, this one is definitely for you.
Kensie wants a fresh start in Alaska, but the bump in her plan is Nick. They start off on the wrong foot and pretty much stay there. She’s determined to avoid him, and he seems determined to test her patience. And you know what they always said growing up… if he’s teasing you, he likes you. Nick can’t understand why Kensie is sweet to everyone but him, or why he feels so drawn to her. When they’re forced to work together, they finally have to face what put them at odds and realize they have more in common than they thought. While Nick starts letting her in, Kensie starts to let him in but is still hiding her own secrets, and for them to have a future she’ll need to stop holding back...
These two struggle with pasts that affect their present and make them wary of the future. Watching enemies (on her end) become friends, and seeing how that growth strengthened their faith, was powerful. And when the love started to grow… so sweet. Nick especially was amazing. Even in his brokenness, he loved so deeply.
This was definitely not what I expected when I started, but it turned into such a strong and emotional read. A solid 4.5, rounded to 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Kensie wants a fresh start in Alaska, but the bump in her plan is Nick. They start off on the wrong foot and pretty much stay there. She’s determined to avoid him, and he seems determined to test her patience. And you know what they always said growing up… if he’s teasing you, he likes you. Nick can’t understand why Kensie is sweet to everyone but him, or why he feels so drawn to her. When they’re forced to work together, they finally have to face what put them at odds and realize they have more in common than they thought. While Nick starts letting her in, Kensie starts to let him in but is still hiding her own secrets, and for them to have a future she’ll need to stop holding back...
These two struggle with pasts that affect their present and make them wary of the future. Watching enemies (on her end) become friends, and seeing how that growth strengthened their faith, was powerful. And when the love started to grow… so sweet. Nick especially was amazing. Even in his brokenness, he loved so deeply.
This was definitely not what I expected when I started, but it turned into such a strong and emotional read. A solid 4.5, rounded to 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
December 31, 2025
This book is SO cozy and cute. If you’re looking a lovely winter read, seasoned tastefully with faith and hope, this book is just for you! 💕
Read
December 8, 2025DNF at 20%.
Sadly my main reason for not finishing is, I felt these characters are all immature. There are also some plot holes, and the story seemed to skip around a lot. It just didn’t flow for me.
Thank you to the author for a copy of the arc in exchange for my honest review.
Sadly my main reason for not finishing is, I felt these characters are all immature. There are also some plot holes, and the story seemed to skip around a lot. It just didn’t flow for me.
Thank you to the author for a copy of the arc in exchange for my honest review.
December 31, 2025
Did you know that you can have moving, gritty fiction without cursing and open doors?
Drew Taylor knows this very well. In fact, I'd say she's one of the leaders in this among Christian fiction authors.
Chasing Kensie has a boatload of banter, which is one of my favorite things. It also has HARD things in it-difficult relationships, gritty realities, baggage that we all carry. AND it has beautiful friendships, grace, acceptance, and Jesus.
I am SUPER excited to read it again!
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
Drew Taylor knows this very well. In fact, I'd say she's one of the leaders in this among Christian fiction authors.
Chasing Kensie has a boatload of banter, which is one of my favorite things. It also has HARD things in it-difficult relationships, gritty realities, baggage that we all carry. AND it has beautiful friendships, grace, acceptance, and Jesus.
I am SUPER excited to read it again!
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
Review of advance copy received from Author
This cozy-cold, heart-warming read pulled me straight into snowy Alaska and never let go. From the very first pages, the sharp banter and forced proximity between Kensie and Nick had me smiling, but it was the slow, tender unraveling of their guarded hearts that truly captured me. What starts as playful “rage-baiting” evolves into something deeply genuine as both characters are challenged to confront past trauma and learn what it really means to love with patience, grace, and faith.
Beneath the cozy winter vibes and laugh-out-loud moments is a story that doesn’t shy away from raw emotion. Kensie’s people-pleasing heart and Nick’s flirt-first defenses give way to honest self-reflection, healing, and beautifully earned trust. The faith elements are woven naturally into the story, grounding the romance in hope, forgiveness, and redemption without ever feeling heavy-handed.
Equal parts charming and emotionally rich, Chasing Kensie is a sweet, faith-filled slow burn that lingers long after the final page. It’s quietly powerful, beautifully genuine, and the kind of story that settles deep in your heart and stays there.
-- Favorite Quotes --
Why did spitting fire back at him feel unbelievably empowering?
“Adults struggle, too. You know that. We don’t get the communication thing right all the time, nor do we keep our emotions in check like we should.”
“Just help me, please. I don’t know what to do or what to say or what to think. It feels like the life I built for myself is crumbling down brick by brick. The people I thought liked me are throwing verbal stones from afar. And I don’t care if it’s jealousy. Why? Why must someone be jealous because I take my job seriously and do it well? Why do I care so much? Why does it sting? Why am I like this? Why do I want everyone to like me?”
“You are never a bother to me, Kensington.” Then he tacked on with a cheeky smile, “And even when you are a teensy bit bothersome, it’s never the kind of bothersome that makes me upset with you or makes you a burden to me. It’s the kind of bothersome that makes me a little addicted to experiencing it more.”
There’s beauty in the bramble of life.”
“Fiction is the lens into which we see outside ourselves. Into which we grapple and battle with ideas, worldviews, and religion. Fiction displays timeless truths about humanity. Truths you might not confront if told in a factual, nonfiction format.”
“I may not be able to put you back together, but I promise I’ll hold your pieces,”
Our pasts do not determine who we are today.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Beneath the cozy winter vibes and laugh-out-loud moments is a story that doesn’t shy away from raw emotion. Kensie’s people-pleasing heart and Nick’s flirt-first defenses give way to honest self-reflection, healing, and beautifully earned trust. The faith elements are woven naturally into the story, grounding the romance in hope, forgiveness, and redemption without ever feeling heavy-handed.
Equal parts charming and emotionally rich, Chasing Kensie is a sweet, faith-filled slow burn that lingers long after the final page. It’s quietly powerful, beautifully genuine, and the kind of story that settles deep in your heart and stays there.
-- Favorite Quotes --
Why did spitting fire back at him feel unbelievably empowering?
“Adults struggle, too. You know that. We don’t get the communication thing right all the time, nor do we keep our emotions in check like we should.”
“Just help me, please. I don’t know what to do or what to say or what to think. It feels like the life I built for myself is crumbling down brick by brick. The people I thought liked me are throwing verbal stones from afar. And I don’t care if it’s jealousy. Why? Why must someone be jealous because I take my job seriously and do it well? Why do I care so much? Why does it sting? Why am I like this? Why do I want everyone to like me?”
“You are never a bother to me, Kensington.” Then he tacked on with a cheeky smile, “And even when you are a teensy bit bothersome, it’s never the kind of bothersome that makes me upset with you or makes you a burden to me. It’s the kind of bothersome that makes me a little addicted to experiencing it more.”
There’s beauty in the bramble of life.”
“Fiction is the lens into which we see outside ourselves. Into which we grapple and battle with ideas, worldviews, and religion. Fiction displays timeless truths about humanity. Truths you might not confront if told in a factual, nonfiction format.”
“I may not be able to put you back together, but I promise I’ll hold your pieces,”
Our pasts do not determine who we are today.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 30, 2025
4.75; Taylor doesn’t disappoint in a providing a rom-com full of her usual grit and grace. She made someone who dislikes enemies to lovers a fan.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Chasing Kensie is a beautiful story of how God is always present, regardless of our past or current circumstances.
I love Kensie's character. I have not struggled with people pleasing to the extent that she does, nor the past that she has, but I have wrestled with how to love certain people like Jesus. She's a beautiful reflection of how God can change our own hearts when we allow Him to.
And Nick! What a guy. He impressed me from... Well, not exactly the beginning because of *reasons*, but I enjoyed him from the get-go and it didn't take long for me to look forward to his chapters. There is such a depth to him that not a lot of MMCs have. So many people in this generation joke around about how trauma made them funny, but I love how he does retain his humor even as God works on him, and how there was always the "real" Nick present under his protective facade.
I'm obsessed with how many times I read "Jesus" in this entire book. The faith element was beautifully incorporated.
The romance had me giggling and kicking my feet. I'm a sucker for a good love story, and Chasing Kensie is no acception. It's all *chef's kiss*.
In the famous words of that one audio, "spectacular, give me 14 of them right now."
I love Kensie's character. I have not struggled with people pleasing to the extent that she does, nor the past that she has, but I have wrestled with how to love certain people like Jesus. She's a beautiful reflection of how God can change our own hearts when we allow Him to.
And Nick! What a guy. He impressed me from... Well, not exactly the beginning because of *reasons*, but I enjoyed him from the get-go and it didn't take long for me to look forward to his chapters. There is such a depth to him that not a lot of MMCs have. So many people in this generation joke around about how trauma made them funny, but I love how he does retain his humor even as God works on him, and how there was always the "real" Nick present under his protective facade.
I'm obsessed with how many times I read "Jesus" in this entire book. The faith element was beautifully incorporated.
The romance had me giggling and kicking my feet. I'm a sucker for a good love story, and Chasing Kensie is no acception. It's all *chef's kiss*.
In the famous words of that one audio, "spectacular, give me 14 of them right now."
January 9, 2026
Finding the words for this review hasn’t been easy. I relate to Nick was too much. I understand his view when it comes to God way too well.
The Christian and biblical themes in this book are perfection, and I love how it wasn’t Kensie’s love that opened Nick’s eyes and renewed his relationship with God, but God using Kensie to bring Nick back to Him.
The story is full of color — just like the Aurora Borealis, and the journey that Kensie and Nick take is quite bumpy, as are most enemy to lovers stories. But the ending is worth the bumps — and the growth that occurs for both characters!
The Christian and biblical themes in this book are perfection, and I love how it wasn’t Kensie’s love that opened Nick’s eyes and renewed his relationship with God, but God using Kensie to bring Nick back to Him.
The story is full of color — just like the Aurora Borealis, and the journey that Kensie and Nick take is quite bumpy, as are most enemy to lovers stories. But the ending is worth the bumps — and the growth that occurs for both characters!
December 7, 2025
This book was a roller-coaster of emotion for me. I truly felt every emotion throughout: hope, anxiety, fear, trepidation, belief, desire, relief, tension and faith. Just like reading Reverie this book gripped me from the beginning. The story is not some fluffy rom com as it works through so many often unpleasant things and the growth of the characters is heart warming. As always I don't leave spoilers, but I must say I highly recommend this book. It is filled with so many moments and it really does have Jesus at the centre of it all. The lesson in this fiction book is that we really do need to see and love each other like Jesus does and that means ourselves aswell. Thankyou Drew for allowing me to be an early reader.
January 6, 2026
“I’ve got you, Kensie. You’re not okay. I’m not okay. Let’s be ‘not okay’ together for a while.”
“You always have a place to break apart. Right here. With me.”
Something in me broke in the best way as I read this novel. Be wary of reading Drew Taylor books at 2 in the morning because you WILL cry. About halfway through the book, I felt so much of myself in Kensie and Nick, to the point that I was reading, praying, crying, reading, praying, crying until I read the acknowledgments. I absolutely loved this one, truly from beginning to end. I couldn't stop reading Chasing Kensie, hence my blurry vision and puffy eyes the next morning. If I could have my memory erased to read it all over again, I would.
As I read, I could see Drew's growth - spiritually, emotionally, and in her writing skills. I loved the call backs from previous books - Reverie: a novel and The Designated Twin This book holds a piece of my heart with it, pages hold my tears, and one-liners hold my laughter. Overall, something unlocked in me as I read the story between Kensie and Nick, and through it, I prayed a lot, and I'm so thankful for God's love and mercy. It should be all of our goals to love others like Jesus.
Can't wait to see what Drew has next, because this one was worth five stars and more. Her characters hold my love and I'm thankful that Drew is always willing to share her stories. I'm excited to see what's around the corner.
“You always have a place to break apart. Right here. With me.”
Something in me broke in the best way as I read this novel. Be wary of reading Drew Taylor books at 2 in the morning because you WILL cry. About halfway through the book, I felt so much of myself in Kensie and Nick, to the point that I was reading, praying, crying, reading, praying, crying until I read the acknowledgments. I absolutely loved this one, truly from beginning to end. I couldn't stop reading Chasing Kensie, hence my blurry vision and puffy eyes the next morning. If I could have my memory erased to read it all over again, I would.
As I read, I could see Drew's growth - spiritually, emotionally, and in her writing skills. I loved the call backs from previous books - Reverie: a novel and The Designated Twin This book holds a piece of my heart with it, pages hold my tears, and one-liners hold my laughter. Overall, something unlocked in me as I read the story between Kensie and Nick, and through it, I prayed a lot, and I'm so thankful for God's love and mercy. It should be all of our goals to love others like Jesus.
Can't wait to see what Drew has next, because this one was worth five stars and more. Her characters hold my love and I'm thankful that Drew is always willing to share her stories. I'm excited to see what's around the corner.
January 3, 2026
Chasing Kensie is the second book I have read written by Drew Taylor, and she is becoming an instant read for me. This book hooked me from the very start with all the flirty banter.
Kensington moved to Alaska to teach at a Christian High School for a fresh start. Upon arrival, she is trying to decorate her new room and sends an email to Nicolas Lancaster to see if he wants any of the items he left behind. With an encounter gone wrong, here begins their enemy’s relationship. As the years pass and Kensie becomes friends with Nick’s sister, Nick cannot understand why he and Kensie seem to have a heated relationship. As they find themselves in close proximity, they start to work through these issues and find the root of the problem. As they become friends, they also develop feelings for one another.
Kensie's character development was great. There is a lot to uncover and unpack. With childhood trauma hidden deep within that comes to light, her people-pleasing actions make sense. Nick also has a lot of layers to pull back. I loved seeing them both progress and overcome their past.
I loved that we got to encounter Esme and Noah. I love it when books intertwine in that way.
This enemies-to-more romance was perfect with kisses only and lots of flirty banter, with a dose of desire.
Drew Taylor did a great job of intertwining faith throughout. I loved the realness and the struggle, but also the reminder of Christ and who we are in Him.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Kensington moved to Alaska to teach at a Christian High School for a fresh start. Upon arrival, she is trying to decorate her new room and sends an email to Nicolas Lancaster to see if he wants any of the items he left behind. With an encounter gone wrong, here begins their enemy’s relationship. As the years pass and Kensie becomes friends with Nick’s sister, Nick cannot understand why he and Kensie seem to have a heated relationship. As they find themselves in close proximity, they start to work through these issues and find the root of the problem. As they become friends, they also develop feelings for one another.
Kensie's character development was great. There is a lot to uncover and unpack. With childhood trauma hidden deep within that comes to light, her people-pleasing actions make sense. Nick also has a lot of layers to pull back. I loved seeing them both progress and overcome their past.
I loved that we got to encounter Esme and Noah. I love it when books intertwine in that way.
This enemies-to-more romance was perfect with kisses only and lots of flirty banter, with a dose of desire.
Drew Taylor did a great job of intertwining faith throughout. I loved the realness and the struggle, but also the reminder of Christ and who we are in Him.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
December 24, 2025
5-star Closed-door Christian Chick Lit Romance
"Chasing Kensie" by Drew Taylor
CONTENT RATINGS:
kissing: 16&up
fade-to-black: none
violence: 16&up
SA: none
language: none (only mentions of cursing)
abusive father (slightly on page)
controlling father
standalone (but interconnected with Drew's other books)
FORMAT / AVAILABILITY
kindle
KU
paperback
hardback
TROPES:
english teacher + PE teacher
slow burn
deep biblical themes
forced proximity
enemies to lovers
He falls first
set in Alaska
winter solstice
redemption arc
banter
terms of endearment
REVIEW:
I don't know how Drew consistently creates literature masterpieces, but she does! God truly has given her an incredible gift.
This book had me going through all of the emotions. I was aggravated, sad, happy, giddy, joyful, scared... You name it, and I felt it. Drew just has this way of creating prose that brings me into the story and makes me feel like I'm sitting right beside the characters. Plus, the banter is amazing! I mean, who knew fallacies could make such great banter material?
I also loved the little details like incorporating sign language, letting the MMC have feelings, and making sure the MCs have mentors in their lives. I mean, the tone of the romance even matched the setting of the book. The gentle, slow burn was perfect for the snowy winter days and nights in Alaska. (But don't let the slow burn fool you, there are plenty of action-packed and swoony moments!)
However, my favorite part was how Drew incorporated biblical themes into this book. There was a major focus on "love like Jesus," even when the characters did not want to. It was a beautiful representation of the life Christ calls his followers to lead. Fiction books really can cause you to stop, think, and evaluate your own life, and "Chasing Kensie" is definitely one of those.
If you love a slow romance with plenty of banter, faith-filled love, and a winter setting, then read this book!
"Chasing Kensie" by Drew Taylor
CONTENT RATINGS:
kissing: 16&up
fade-to-black: none
violence: 16&up
SA: none
language: none (only mentions of cursing)
abusive father (slightly on page)
controlling father
standalone (but interconnected with Drew's other books)
FORMAT / AVAILABILITY
kindle
KU
paperback
hardback
TROPES:
english teacher + PE teacher
slow burn
deep biblical themes
forced proximity
enemies to lovers
He falls first
set in Alaska
winter solstice
redemption arc
banter
terms of endearment
REVIEW:
I don't know how Drew consistently creates literature masterpieces, but she does! God truly has given her an incredible gift.
This book had me going through all of the emotions. I was aggravated, sad, happy, giddy, joyful, scared... You name it, and I felt it. Drew just has this way of creating prose that brings me into the story and makes me feel like I'm sitting right beside the characters. Plus, the banter is amazing! I mean, who knew fallacies could make such great banter material?
I also loved the little details like incorporating sign language, letting the MMC have feelings, and making sure the MCs have mentors in their lives. I mean, the tone of the romance even matched the setting of the book. The gentle, slow burn was perfect for the snowy winter days and nights in Alaska. (But don't let the slow burn fool you, there are plenty of action-packed and swoony moments!)
However, my favorite part was how Drew incorporated biblical themes into this book. There was a major focus on "love like Jesus," even when the characters did not want to. It was a beautiful representation of the life Christ calls his followers to lead. Fiction books really can cause you to stop, think, and evaluate your own life, and "Chasing Kensie" is definitely one of those.
If you love a slow romance with plenty of banter, faith-filled love, and a winter setting, then read this book!
January 9, 2026
This story was by a new to me author and it was absolutely captivating. Kensie and Nick have things in their pasts that have broken them in different ways. They are both able to hide their issues from most people, yet when the strife that is between them begins to move into attraction, they must confront their deepest hurts if they want to have any chance of happiness together.
The author did a very good job of showing how traumatic events affect a person, impacting all kinds of decisions and reactions. She also wove in a strong faith message and a main character who needed to find his way back to trusting God.
Chasing Kensie kept me glued to the pages to see how these enemies would find their way to each other and learn to heal together.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This review will post on my blog on 1/9/26.
The author did a very good job of showing how traumatic events affect a person, impacting all kinds of decisions and reactions. She also wove in a strong faith message and a main character who needed to find his way back to trusting God.
Chasing Kensie kept me glued to the pages to see how these enemies would find their way to each other and learn to heal together.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This review will post on my blog on 1/9/26.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Chasing Kensie by Drew Taylor follows Nick and Kensie, two teachers who begin the story firmly on opposite sides as workplace enemies, fuelled by misunderstandings and clashing personalities. When an accident forces them into closer proximity, some of those walls start to crumble and Nick decides to actively pursue Kensie, shifting their dynamic from antagonism to something more vulnerable.
The story tackles heavier emotional threads alongside the romance, including Kensie’s unresolved trauma and Nick’s strained relationship with his father. There are moments where the characters show up for each other in meaningful ways, allowing themselves to be vulnerable and learning to accept one another in their brokenness, which I appreciated.
The story tackles heavier emotional threads alongside the romance, including Kensie’s unresolved trauma and Nick’s strained relationship with his father. There are moments where the characters show up for each other in meaningful ways, allowing themselves to be vulnerable and learning to accept one another in their brokenness, which I appreciated.
January 10, 2026
A beautiful Christian contemporary romance set in Alaska!
This was definitely enemies to lovers! From the outside (and from a people pleaser who struggles to be non people pleasing with everyone but her husband!), it was no surprise when Nick and Kensie finally realized themselves the “enemies” was actually more like “lovers”! But it took awhile for them to realize they were being stupid and immature (🤪) and get to that point!
Things I loved:
- that Nick and Kensie each had supportive voices of reason in their life
- it was not your usual “best friend’s brother” storyline (yay!)
- poutine is consumed!
- being able to relate to a FMC’s fear of “people may not like me”
- deep Biblical truths
- hard topics but still light
- Nick chasing Kensie :)
- the twist!
I would have loved to see more deep and vulnerable conversations on page between Nick and Kensie. And I felt her reason for the enemies portion was more intense than warranted.
Chasing Kensie releases Dec 23 and while it’s not really a “Christmasy” book, the majority of it takes place leading up to, and over, Christmas.
Thank you for the arc @authordrewtaylor!
This was definitely enemies to lovers! From the outside (and from a people pleaser who struggles to be non people pleasing with everyone but her husband!), it was no surprise when Nick and Kensie finally realized themselves the “enemies” was actually more like “lovers”! But it took awhile for them to realize they were being stupid and immature (🤪) and get to that point!
Things I loved:
- that Nick and Kensie each had supportive voices of reason in their life
- it was not your usual “best friend’s brother” storyline (yay!)
- poutine is consumed!
- being able to relate to a FMC’s fear of “people may not like me”
- deep Biblical truths
- hard topics but still light
- Nick chasing Kensie :)
- the twist!
I would have loved to see more deep and vulnerable conversations on page between Nick and Kensie. And I felt her reason for the enemies portion was more intense than warranted.
Chasing Kensie releases Dec 23 and while it’s not really a “Christmasy” book, the majority of it takes place leading up to, and over, Christmas.
Thank you for the arc @authordrewtaylor!
January 7, 2026
Chasing Kensie Book Review
Synopsis:
Chasing Kensie is a Christian contemporary romance set in an Alaskan winter, following Kensington Smith, a high school English teacher seeking a fresh start, and Nicolas Lancaster, the flirtatious P.E. teacher who loves to get under her skin. Forced to work together, their enemies-to-lovers tension slowly gives way to healing, faith, and a hope-filled love that shines even in the coldest seasons. 💛
My Review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars — a deeply moving, faith-filled romance that beautifully weaves healing, hope, and redemption.
“I may not be able to put you back together, but I promise I’ll hold your pieces.”
This was a truly beautiful and heartfelt read. I absolutely loved diving into Kensie and Nick’s story and found myself deeply connected to both characters—especially Kensie. Her journey as a lifelong people pleaser, shaped by the pain of never feeling “good enough” to earn her father’s love or presence, felt incredibly raw and real. That longing, and the way it influenced her faith and relationships, was written with so much care and emotional depth.
Nick, too, is carrying the weight of his own unresolved childhood trauma, even as he tries to outrun it. As their paths intertwine, what begins with tension and guarded hearts slowly unfolds into something tender and meaningful. Watching them confront their pasts, wrestle with forgiveness, and learn to trust—not only each other but God—was both moving and hopeful.
This story beautifully explores faith in the midst of darkness, healing that doesn’t come easily, and hope in a God who may feel distant at times but never stops seeing our pain. It’s a reminder that He notices every tear and is always working, even when we can’t yet see the way forward.
This was my first Drew Taylor read, and it certainly won’t be my last!
Please note: this story contains themes of domestic violence, which may be triggering for some readers.
Synopsis:
Chasing Kensie is a Christian contemporary romance set in an Alaskan winter, following Kensington Smith, a high school English teacher seeking a fresh start, and Nicolas Lancaster, the flirtatious P.E. teacher who loves to get under her skin. Forced to work together, their enemies-to-lovers tension slowly gives way to healing, faith, and a hope-filled love that shines even in the coldest seasons. 💛
My Review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars — a deeply moving, faith-filled romance that beautifully weaves healing, hope, and redemption.
“I may not be able to put you back together, but I promise I’ll hold your pieces.”
This was a truly beautiful and heartfelt read. I absolutely loved diving into Kensie and Nick’s story and found myself deeply connected to both characters—especially Kensie. Her journey as a lifelong people pleaser, shaped by the pain of never feeling “good enough” to earn her father’s love or presence, felt incredibly raw and real. That longing, and the way it influenced her faith and relationships, was written with so much care and emotional depth.
Nick, too, is carrying the weight of his own unresolved childhood trauma, even as he tries to outrun it. As their paths intertwine, what begins with tension and guarded hearts slowly unfolds into something tender and meaningful. Watching them confront their pasts, wrestle with forgiveness, and learn to trust—not only each other but God—was both moving and hopeful.
This story beautifully explores faith in the midst of darkness, healing that doesn’t come easily, and hope in a God who may feel distant at times but never stops seeing our pain. It’s a reminder that He notices every tear and is always working, even when we can’t yet see the way forward.
This was my first Drew Taylor read, and it certainly won’t be my last!
Please note: this story contains themes of domestic violence, which may be triggering for some readers.
January 23, 2026
What a lovely read! I loved Nick and Kensie, and it was a joy to watch them go from being each other’s nemesis to falling in love. I loved getting to journey to Crescent Cove, Alaska again after my short visit in Reverie! I love this small town and am hoping for more stories set there!
Without fail every time I read a Drew Taylor book I feel like I’m seeing pieces of my own heart on the page, her books truly touch me in a way that mere words simply cannot explain! I feel like this book has helped set me on a path to healing from my people-pleading tendencies, and every page made me feel God’s love like a comforting blanket wrapped around me!
I loved Chasing Kensie and most highly recommend it!
If you’re looking for the perfect winter read then this is it, or if you happen to read this review in the summer and you want a book that will help you beat the heat by mentally transporting to somewhere cold this one is also perfect!
I received a complimentary ebook copy of this book from the author! And I also purchased a signed copy for my collection with my own money.
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
Without fail every time I read a Drew Taylor book I feel like I’m seeing pieces of my own heart on the page, her books truly touch me in a way that mere words simply cannot explain! I feel like this book has helped set me on a path to healing from my people-pleading tendencies, and every page made me feel God’s love like a comforting blanket wrapped around me!
I loved Chasing Kensie and most highly recommend it!
If you’re looking for the perfect winter read then this is it, or if you happen to read this review in the summer and you want a book that will help you beat the heat by mentally transporting to somewhere cold this one is also perfect!
I received a complimentary ebook copy of this book from the author! And I also purchased a signed copy for my collection with my own money.
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reader’s Notes:
– this is told from Kensie & Nick’s points of view
*Nick was first met in Reverie (towards the end), but it doesn’t need to be read to enjoy this book
-it is mentioned that a character slept with other people in the past
-some characters are Christians and talk about their faith (things like trusting Him, their struggles in doing so, prayer, etc)
-it is mentioned that a character’s parent was alcoholic & abusive
-there are about 6 uses of a not nice term and 2 uses of other not nice terms; there are about 2 mentions of characters cursing (no curse words used, just saying they cursed)
-an attack is mentioned (not seen on page – stabbing) and is followed by another attack (partially on page – attempted strangling)
-it is briefly mentioned that a side character’s parent committed suicide (past event)
Review:
I almost read this in one sitting it was so good! (*Almost* as pesky real life got in the way…)
I loved getting to know Nick better after having met him in Reverie! He was very interesting and realistic in how he wasn’t perfect and wanted to be better than he was in the past. I loved getting to know Kensie and seeing why she was genuinely against Nick at every turn. And I really liked that I could understand why she never brought up the reason that she started (and then continued) disliking Nick prior to him finding it out in the story. I also really enjoyed the various friendships and good relationships both characters made with others. Not only were a lot of them great voices of reason, but some were also fun to see the characters interact with!
I loved the realistic view of how a Christian person’s life could be depending on choices they made and how different things that happened in their life could shape them too. Seeing both characters struggle with trusting God at various points in the story and how they pushed through is not only real but was helpful to see that no really, we aren’t alone in struggling with different things.
I can’t wait to see what else Drew Taylor has planned to write!
Summary:
Kensie a high school English teacher who always looks for the good in people and will help them in any way that she can. But from the first interaction with Nick – the school’s P. E. teacher – Kensie hasn’t been able to look for the good. Which is really bad considering she is unable to avoid him due to him taking a liking to pushing her buttons any chance he can get. Not to mention that he’s also her best friend’s older brother. But when Kensie ends up in a bind with the school’s Winter Solstice dance, the only person available to help is Nick. Can she put aside her past issues with him in order for them to work together?
Nick loves poking fun at Kensie, especially since her full name Kensington sounds like the name for a palace. And the fact that she treats him differently from everyone else brings him joy. Until he realizes that they aren’t just bantering, at least she doesn’t think they are. And maybe… he cares more for her than he’d thought. If Nick makes the choice to truly pursue Kensie, would she be open to his advances? Or would his teasing have taken away the option before he’d even considered it?
– this is told from Kensie & Nick’s points of view
*Nick was first met in Reverie (towards the end), but it doesn’t need to be read to enjoy this book
-it is mentioned that a character slept with other people in the past
-some characters are Christians and talk about their faith (things like trusting Him, their struggles in doing so, prayer, etc)
-it is mentioned that a character’s parent was alcoholic & abusive
-there are about 6 uses of a not nice term and 2 uses of other not nice terms; there are about 2 mentions of characters cursing (no curse words used, just saying they cursed)
-an attack is mentioned (not seen on page – stabbing) and is followed by another attack (partially on page – attempted strangling)
-it is briefly mentioned that a side character’s parent committed suicide (past event)
Review:
I almost read this in one sitting it was so good! (*Almost* as pesky real life got in the way…)
I loved getting to know Nick better after having met him in Reverie! He was very interesting and realistic in how he wasn’t perfect and wanted to be better than he was in the past. I loved getting to know Kensie and seeing why she was genuinely against Nick at every turn. And I really liked that I could understand why she never brought up the reason that she started (and then continued) disliking Nick prior to him finding it out in the story. I also really enjoyed the various friendships and good relationships both characters made with others. Not only were a lot of them great voices of reason, but some were also fun to see the characters interact with!
I loved the realistic view of how a Christian person’s life could be depending on choices they made and how different things that happened in their life could shape them too. Seeing both characters struggle with trusting God at various points in the story and how they pushed through is not only real but was helpful to see that no really, we aren’t alone in struggling with different things.
I can’t wait to see what else Drew Taylor has planned to write!
Summary:
Kensie a high school English teacher who always looks for the good in people and will help them in any way that she can. But from the first interaction with Nick – the school’s P. E. teacher – Kensie hasn’t been able to look for the good. Which is really bad considering she is unable to avoid him due to him taking a liking to pushing her buttons any chance he can get. Not to mention that he’s also her best friend’s older brother. But when Kensie ends up in a bind with the school’s Winter Solstice dance, the only person available to help is Nick. Can she put aside her past issues with him in order for them to work together?
Nick loves poking fun at Kensie, especially since her full name Kensington sounds like the name for a palace. And the fact that she treats him differently from everyone else brings him joy. Until he realizes that they aren’t just bantering, at least she doesn’t think they are. And maybe… he cares more for her than he’d thought. If Nick makes the choice to truly pursue Kensie, would she be open to his advances? Or would his teasing have taken away the option before he’d even considered it?
December 23, 2025
One Quote from Chasing Kensie that truly stuck with me, "Love him like Jesus".
This book was just amazing! It was a picture of Kensie & Nick and the way that each of them dealt with their past and their non-relationship(or is it a relationship?).
As we follow, Kensie Smith, who has moved to Alaska & after several years of have an ongoing "rage-baiting" relationship with Nick Lancaster. Kensie is a people pleaser to the point that she doesn't say "No" except to Nick, who she can't agree with him on anything. Nick is the brother of Kensie's best friend in Alaska, Braelee and fellow teacher in Crescent Cove High School.
Nick & Kensie work together but can the constant forced proximity through working together, as teachers in a high school and keep running into each other change them? Nick is the one who falls first and he realizes that all his "pig tail pulling" was just like a kid, he was doing it for a reaction. Is it the typical unexpected attraction after years of teasing Kensie how will Nick react now? Will Kensie get beyond her extreme dislike of any of his teasing, flirting, and just constant presence in her daily life? Then suddenly their lives and relationships, as humans and Christians are there. They are struggling just like so many people are & we are shown the struggles in their beliefs and how it affects their actions. It truly was good to read about them, as they work through each piece of their messy lives that God was helping them each through.
"Nick is your bait. The rage you feel for him, it's a rush of dopamine to your system, hooking you into this cycle of push and pull, tit for tat. You get pleasure from arguing with him."
"The sound of her name in his baritone voice echoed in her brain as she stared dumb at the smoldering man. He was a live-action Flynn Ryder, and she felt it right to her inner being."
"Nick felt like the Grinch. Specifically in the moment where the green creature's heart thumped, thumped, thumped as Kensie tried to be obscure in her curious observations of him. There's hope, Nick thought to himself as a slow, genuine smile spread across his face."
This book was just amazing! It was a picture of Kensie & Nick and the way that each of them dealt with their past and their non-relationship(or is it a relationship?).
As we follow, Kensie Smith, who has moved to Alaska & after several years of have an ongoing "rage-baiting" relationship with Nick Lancaster. Kensie is a people pleaser to the point that she doesn't say "No" except to Nick, who she can't agree with him on anything. Nick is the brother of Kensie's best friend in Alaska, Braelee and fellow teacher in Crescent Cove High School.
Nick & Kensie work together but can the constant forced proximity through working together, as teachers in a high school and keep running into each other change them? Nick is the one who falls first and he realizes that all his "pig tail pulling" was just like a kid, he was doing it for a reaction. Is it the typical unexpected attraction after years of teasing Kensie how will Nick react now? Will Kensie get beyond her extreme dislike of any of his teasing, flirting, and just constant presence in her daily life? Then suddenly their lives and relationships, as humans and Christians are there. They are struggling just like so many people are & we are shown the struggles in their beliefs and how it affects their actions. It truly was good to read about them, as they work through each piece of their messy lives that God was helping them each through.
"Nick is your bait. The rage you feel for him, it's a rush of dopamine to your system, hooking you into this cycle of push and pull, tit for tat. You get pleasure from arguing with him."
"The sound of her name in his baritone voice echoed in her brain as she stared dumb at the smoldering man. He was a live-action Flynn Ryder, and she felt it right to her inner being."
"Nick felt like the Grinch. Specifically in the moment where the green creature's heart thumped, thumped, thumped as Kensie tried to be obscure in her curious observations of him. There's hope, Nick thought to himself as a slow, genuine smile spread across his face."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ this was a 6 star read for me. My first 6 star read. My first time reading Drew Taylor and I absolutely loved this book. The character development was so fun to watch in this book. The book was magical.
A little book synopsis:
Setting is Alaska
Kensie wants to reinvent her life and start over by moving. She moves to Alaska to be a teacher and meets PE teacher Nick Lancaster and them to have a strong disdain for each other and also misunderstands each other.
Somewhere along the way they fall for each other.
They come to understand each other. They both become each others safety. There are themes of reconciliation except one character.
Spoiler alert: Nick gets reconciled to Christ and his father.
Kensie gets reconciled to herself and her trauma. As the story continues you start seeing that her trauma no longer is the driving force in her life. She becomes secure in her identity in Christ.
Nick is not his past anymore. He grows up from his childish ways but also finds love that doesn’t hold his past against him. We see Nick become better and more gentle as the story goes on.
They both help each other grow in Christ as Kensie becomes less of a people pleaser and more assertive and Nick acts more like a man. Both have held each other accountable which is what we are to do for the people we love.
This book portrays messy sinners but the transformation of hearts in Christ. This book festers hope, love and forgiveness. This book shows us that despite us finding someone annoying or even when our loved ones get on our nerves we got to love them like Jesus doesn’t negate whatever sin someone has done, but let’s face it loving others is hard. So Drew does a great job demonstrating what it means to love people like Jesus. This story was raw and honest. And I almost read it all in one day.
Happy Release Day Drew Taylor
Thanks for letting me be an arc reader will definitely recommend this one to all my friends.
A little book synopsis:
Setting is Alaska
Kensie wants to reinvent her life and start over by moving. She moves to Alaska to be a teacher and meets PE teacher Nick Lancaster and them to have a strong disdain for each other and also misunderstands each other.
Somewhere along the way they fall for each other.
They come to understand each other. They both become each others safety. There are themes of reconciliation except one character.
Spoiler alert: Nick gets reconciled to Christ and his father.
Kensie gets reconciled to herself and her trauma. As the story continues you start seeing that her trauma no longer is the driving force in her life. She becomes secure in her identity in Christ.
Nick is not his past anymore. He grows up from his childish ways but also finds love that doesn’t hold his past against him. We see Nick become better and more gentle as the story goes on.
They both help each other grow in Christ as Kensie becomes less of a people pleaser and more assertive and Nick acts more like a man. Both have held each other accountable which is what we are to do for the people we love.
This book portrays messy sinners but the transformation of hearts in Christ. This book festers hope, love and forgiveness. This book shows us that despite us finding someone annoying or even when our loved ones get on our nerves we got to love them like Jesus doesn’t negate whatever sin someone has done, but let’s face it loving others is hard. So Drew does a great job demonstrating what it means to love people like Jesus. This story was raw and honest. And I almost read it all in one day.
Happy Release Day Drew Taylor
Thanks for letting me be an arc reader will definitely recommend this one to all my friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2026
*Thank you to Just Read Tours for the gifted e-copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
This book is such a cute and cozy read! It’s the perfect type of book to lift your spirits this dreary January.
First of all, I loved the Alaskan winter setting. It gives off such wintry, cozy vibes. Second of all, I loved Kensie and Nick. This is a true rivals to lovers and I absolutely loved that. The “rage-baiting” they would do to each other just built the tension in the best way. Then to watch their genuine feelings grow it was just *sigh* so good! I absolutely loved the banter between them.
Chasing Kensie isn’t all fluff though. The author does such an incredible job touching on the hard topics and reminds us that we all have baggage and can grow. It’s also a beautiful reminder of God’s love for us and the grace we can give each other.
Overall, I really adored this book. If you are a fan of closed door romance, you need to read Chasing Kensie!
This book is such a cute and cozy read! It’s the perfect type of book to lift your spirits this dreary January.
First of all, I loved the Alaskan winter setting. It gives off such wintry, cozy vibes. Second of all, I loved Kensie and Nick. This is a true rivals to lovers and I absolutely loved that. The “rage-baiting” they would do to each other just built the tension in the best way. Then to watch their genuine feelings grow it was just *sigh* so good! I absolutely loved the banter between them.
Chasing Kensie isn’t all fluff though. The author does such an incredible job touching on the hard topics and reminds us that we all have baggage and can grow. It’s also a beautiful reminder of God’s love for us and the grace we can give each other.
Overall, I really adored this book. If you are a fan of closed door romance, you need to read Chasing Kensie!
January 9, 2026
I have had some personal grief this last month, and I have to say that it took me a bit to dive into this book fully. The childish name-calling snippy manners seemed trivial and I wasn't really into it. However, I have been to Alaska, where the book was set, and those scenes drew me in as a comforting, happy memory.
I think I really related to Nick, one of the main characters. He seemed like a sweet and genuine person, even though at the beginning, he was every bit as awful as Kensie, the other main character. The one thing I do love that as a Christian Contemporary Romance, the relationship does sweeten between Nick and Kensie through their mutual love of Jesus. The author's personal relationship with Jesus shines through and that makes the book feel authentic.
I think I really related to Nick, one of the main characters. He seemed like a sweet and genuine person, even though at the beginning, he was every bit as awful as Kensie, the other main character. The one thing I do love that as a Christian Contemporary Romance, the relationship does sweeten between Nick and Kensie through their mutual love of Jesus. The author's personal relationship with Jesus shines through and that makes the book feel authentic.
January 1, 2026
Did you ever meet and get off on the wrong foot with someone... and never really move past that initial bad impression? This is exactly where Kensie and Nick are when we meet them at the start of this book... still unable to get along after a bad first impression a few years earlier. But as they are forced to work together on a dance for the school where they both teach, they start to see that perhaps there is a lot more to the other. I'll be honest, at the start of this story, these two seemed a little immature and I wasn't quite sure how this story was going to go... but if you find yourself thinking the same, don't give up on them so quickly. These two have a lot of issues and struggles they need to work through, but seeing their growth in the end? It was absolutely worth it and truly made it such a beautiful story... a perfect slow burn with healing, faith and of course, all the banter that I love in an enemies to love romance. If you love Christian romance that isn't afraid of the hard topics and imperfect characters, this winter romance is one not to be missed.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Want to read
January 7, 2026Drew Taylor is a new-to-me author, and I'm glad for this fun introduction.
I enjoy any story about teachers, and any book set in Alaska. Combine those two, and you know I'm going to want to read it! I enjoyed watching the relationship between Nick and Kensie grow, as well as their spiritual relationships grow stronger.
If you enjoy Christian contemporary fiction, with a touch of romance, you will certainly want to add Chasing Kensie to your TBR list.
I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.
I enjoy any story about teachers, and any book set in Alaska. Combine those two, and you know I'm going to want to read it! I enjoyed watching the relationship between Nick and Kensie grow, as well as their spiritual relationships grow stronger.
If you enjoy Christian contemporary fiction, with a touch of romance, you will certainly want to add Chasing Kensie to your TBR list.
I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.
December 23, 2025
I absolutely adore Nick & Kensie's fiery, caring, sweet, redemptive, loving,hopeful, love like Jesus, swoony happily ever after!!!
January 25, 2026
Absolutely loved this book! Characters were well developed, setting was gorgeous and the writing transformed us to Alaska. Thank you for this masterpiece !
December 23, 2025
5/5
Genre: Christian Romance
🚨TW: mentions about being abused, being controlled, anxiety, almost killed
Favourite Moments
🌌 Their bickering, teasing and flirting
🌌 Them being like teenagers all over again.
🌌 Him standing up for her.
🌌 Them comforting each other.
🌌 Them relying on God for wisdom and also their situation.
🌌 Him knowing what she likes and observing her.
🌌 Them working together for the Winter Solstice Dance.
🌌 The people around them trying to matchmake them together.
🌌 Them opening up to each other.
🌌 Their date (can’t spoil it)
🌌 Winter Solstice Dance.
🌌 The gala
🌌 In Mississippi
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
🌌 He saved and protects her.
🌌 He stand up for her.
🌌 He shows his vulnerable side to her.
🌌 He is there for her though she pushes him away.
🌌 He knows what she likes
🌌 He is great with the kids.
🌌 He knows sign language. (can’t help it)
🌌 His dimples (can’t help it)
Synopsis
Kensie
An English teacher who she thinks her father abandoned her and her mother when she was 5 years old. She is a people pleaser because if she is good her father will come back into their lives again.
Nick
A P.E teacher who is very smart but he had a passion of coaching and the heart of teaching children. He had a rough childhood too and also his father is always about reputation.
One e-mail that she received from him that made her loathe him though he doesn’t really loathe her but they can’t help but bicker with each other. For two and a half years they had non-stop bickering with each other. Worst, they are asked to work together for the Winter Solstice Dance event. Will they able to work together? Will they able to get along and get to know each other? Both have histories in the past where hurt them deeply which made them insecure. Will they able to open up to each other? Read Chasing Kensie to find out!
Review:
Loving these two so much. Their bickering, teasing and also flirting are just so entertaining. And the funniest is when she attempts to flirt with him ( can’t spoil it) . Though they always fight when they meet, slowly they get to know each other and opened up to each other which make them like teenagers at times. They are there for each other when they need each other. Love their date and time spend together making sure everything is prefect for the School Dance and also getting the props together.
I definitely can relate to Kensie because I understand how she feels when people make fun of her name which made her hate her name. I also experience that as well during my school days that I hate my name as well but no worries I grow to love my name now. And also the part when it is hard to say ‘No’ to someone hits hard too.
He never gives up on her and also, he keeps himself in check that if he really really likes her before pursuing her. And the way he stood up for her was so touching and also making sure that she is alright all the time. They comfort each other and also encourage each other. She helps him realised that God is there for him and never leaving nor forsake him. And love the way they rely on God for answers and their situation.
Love the people around them too that are trying to matchmake them together hahaha… and love that they are trying to make them realise their feelings for each other and be there for them. This book made me smile, laugh, cry and seeing God work through both of the characters broken heart, and also loving like Jesus.
P.S I love that 3 people is convincing Nick to read fiction hehe… and telling him what can he learn from fiction hehe.. You will find characters from Reverie appearing hehe.. (can’t spoil it)
What I Learn?
It’s hard to love someone that always gets under your skin or the unlovable but we always must remember that though we don’t deserve it Jesus still love us the way we are. Jesus loves who we are, we also must be like him loving them too. I know it is hard but we can rely on Him to give us the strength to love the person like Him.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own Thanks to @authordrewtaylor for the ARC.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it’s available on KU.
Genre: Christian Romance
🚨TW: mentions about being abused, being controlled, anxiety, almost killed
Favourite Moments
🌌 Their bickering, teasing and flirting
🌌 Them being like teenagers all over again.
🌌 Him standing up for her.
🌌 Them comforting each other.
🌌 Them relying on God for wisdom and also their situation.
🌌 Him knowing what she likes and observing her.
🌌 Them working together for the Winter Solstice Dance.
🌌 The people around them trying to matchmake them together.
🌌 Them opening up to each other.
🌌 Their date (can’t spoil it)
🌌 Winter Solstice Dance.
🌌 The gala
🌌 In Mississippi
(lots more)
Swoony Moments
🌌 He saved and protects her.
🌌 He stand up for her.
🌌 He shows his vulnerable side to her.
🌌 He is there for her though she pushes him away.
🌌 He knows what she likes
🌌 He is great with the kids.
🌌 He knows sign language. (can’t help it)
🌌 His dimples (can’t help it)
Synopsis
Kensie
An English teacher who she thinks her father abandoned her and her mother when she was 5 years old. She is a people pleaser because if she is good her father will come back into their lives again.
Nick
A P.E teacher who is very smart but he had a passion of coaching and the heart of teaching children. He had a rough childhood too and also his father is always about reputation.
One e-mail that she received from him that made her loathe him though he doesn’t really loathe her but they can’t help but bicker with each other. For two and a half years they had non-stop bickering with each other. Worst, they are asked to work together for the Winter Solstice Dance event. Will they able to work together? Will they able to get along and get to know each other? Both have histories in the past where hurt them deeply which made them insecure. Will they able to open up to each other? Read Chasing Kensie to find out!
Review:
Loving these two so much. Their bickering, teasing and also flirting are just so entertaining. And the funniest is when she attempts to flirt with him ( can’t spoil it) . Though they always fight when they meet, slowly they get to know each other and opened up to each other which make them like teenagers at times. They are there for each other when they need each other. Love their date and time spend together making sure everything is prefect for the School Dance and also getting the props together.
I definitely can relate to Kensie because I understand how she feels when people make fun of her name which made her hate her name. I also experience that as well during my school days that I hate my name as well but no worries I grow to love my name now. And also the part when it is hard to say ‘No’ to someone hits hard too.
He never gives up on her and also, he keeps himself in check that if he really really likes her before pursuing her. And the way he stood up for her was so touching and also making sure that she is alright all the time. They comfort each other and also encourage each other. She helps him realised that God is there for him and never leaving nor forsake him. And love the way they rely on God for answers and their situation.
Love the people around them too that are trying to matchmake them together hahaha… and love that they are trying to make them realise their feelings for each other and be there for them. This book made me smile, laugh, cry and seeing God work through both of the characters broken heart, and also loving like Jesus.
P.S I love that 3 people is convincing Nick to read fiction hehe… and telling him what can he learn from fiction hehe.. You will find characters from Reverie appearing hehe.. (can’t spoil it)
What I Learn?
It’s hard to love someone that always gets under your skin or the unlovable but we always must remember that though we don’t deserve it Jesus still love us the way we are. Jesus loves who we are, we also must be like him loving them too. I know it is hard but we can rely on Him to give us the strength to love the person like Him.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own Thanks to @authordrewtaylor for the ARC.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it’s available on KU.
January 20, 2026
Sigh. I feel like I could write a really long review about this book. It was a roller coaster for me, but not in the good way. It was a roller coaster of me trying not to DNF because i just couldn't deal with the FMC sometimes.
There were times I liked her, but in a lot of ways she came off as immature. I just can't with the grudge he held with the MMC for 2.5 and WHY she held that grudge. Like, they could have gotten along sooner if she would have just put her animosity aside and said something to him...instead she made it a point to hate him before she even met him and then fought with him whenever he tried to interact with her.
While being best friends with his sister, mind you. So, like, he was a good enough guy and respected her enough NOT to show up at a public place on the days she went there with his sister, even though his BEST FRIEND worked there...
And now, there is something else but I am going to put it in spoilers.
Now, I loved Nick. Was her perfect? OF COURSE NOT. However, he didn't do anything to deserve the treatment he got throughout the book. He did something that annoyed her, but she never flat out asked him not to do it or said why it was annoying so like, how was he supposed to know to stop? And genuinely he was pretty freaking sweet from the first/second chapter when he ran into her the bar she was at with his sister! So, he was struggling with his faith after a bad relationship with his dad and his ex cheated on him... but for some reason the narrative painted him in a bad light because he slept with is ex. Which yes, premarital sex is bad... I am aware.. and I get why he thought he wasn't "good enough" because he was no longer a virgin...but in the beginning and the middle of the book it talked about how he only slept with women he was serious about etc.. so it's not like he was a wh0re or something . . . but then at the end... suddenly he lead women on for his entertainment? and Like I feel like it was just said to give him a "reason" to beg Kenzie for forgiveness.. because really he didn't do anything much he needed to apologize for after his initial apology for the nickname she didn't like.
It was just so frustrating and i know love isn't about deserving etc.. but in the book he is like "I am sorry I am not good enough for you/I don't deserve you" and honestly I feel like Nick could have found someone better than Kenzie... sorry, not sorry. But I do like the message of them working though their troubles together and working on themselves and their faith.
so there were some good things
The religious quotes and messages were, of course, amazing.
Nick was amazing, of course
There were some amazing side characters
there were some really beautiful quotes and sweet romantic moments.
At the end of the day, I guess this book just wasn't for me. Which makes me sad because I was really looking forward to it... and of course I really like Nick.
I received an ARC from the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
There were times I liked her, but in a lot of ways she came off as immature. I just can't with the grudge he held with the MMC for 2.5 and WHY she held that grudge. Like, they could have gotten along sooner if she would have just put her animosity aside and said something to him...instead she made it a point to hate him before she even met him and then fought with him whenever he tried to interact with her.
While being best friends with his sister, mind you. So, like, he was a good enough guy and respected her enough NOT to show up at a public place on the days she went there with his sister, even though his BEST FRIEND worked there...
And now, there is something else but I am going to put it in spoilers.
Now, I loved Nick. Was her perfect? OF COURSE NOT. However, he didn't do anything to deserve the treatment he got throughout the book. He did something that annoyed her, but she never flat out asked him not to do it or said why it was annoying so like, how was he supposed to know to stop? And genuinely he was pretty freaking sweet from the first/second chapter when he ran into her the bar she was at with his sister! So, he was struggling with his faith after a bad relationship with his dad and his ex cheated on him... but for some reason the narrative painted him in a bad light because he slept with is ex. Which yes, premarital sex is bad... I am aware.. and I get why he thought he wasn't "good enough" because he was no longer a virgin...but in the beginning and the middle of the book it talked about how he only slept with women he was serious about etc.. so it's not like he was a wh0re or something . . . but then at the end... suddenly he lead women on for his entertainment? and Like I feel like it was just said to give him a "reason" to beg Kenzie for forgiveness.. because really he didn't do anything much he needed to apologize for after his initial apology for the nickname she didn't like.
It was just so frustrating and i know love isn't about deserving etc.. but in the book he is like "I am sorry I am not good enough for you/I don't deserve you" and honestly I feel like Nick could have found someone better than Kenzie... sorry, not sorry. But I do like the message of them working though their troubles together and working on themselves and their faith.
so there were some good things
The religious quotes and messages were, of course, amazing.
Nick was amazing, of course
There were some amazing side characters
there were some really beautiful quotes and sweet romantic moments.
At the end of the day, I guess this book just wasn't for me. Which makes me sad because I was really looking forward to it... and of course I really like Nick.
I received an ARC from the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 29, 2025
Chasing Kensie is a touching, heartfelt, faith-based romance that warmed my heart in the best way. Nick and Kensie both carry heavy baggage from their pasts—wounds that deeply affect their present and future—and Drew handles these sensitive topics with care, compassion, and intention.
Nick is a genuinely good man who has lost his way and drifted from his relationship with God. I couldn’t help but root for him from the start. He doesn’t shy away from talking through what he’s struggling with or showing how deeply things affect him. His natural protectiveness stood out right away, and the way he pursued Kensie—with patience, thoughtfulness, and steady reassurance—was incredibly sweet. He consistently showed up for her in both big and small ways, whether that meant standing up to his father on her behalf or quietly taking care of her, like packing a bag when she was too stubborn to do it herself. He also challenged Kensie to recognize her worth, encouraging her to stand up for herself and stop allowing others to take advantage of her kindness. Watching him slowly find his way back to his faith added meaningful depth to his character.
Kensie took a little longer to grow on me. Early on, the intensity of her resentment toward Nick felt misplaced, and some of her judgments—particularly a comment about STDs—went too far. That said, I appreciated that she eventually acknowledged her behavior, apologized, and owned the immaturity of her grudge. As her treatment of Nick softened, my feelings toward her did too. Her people-pleasing tendencies were extremely relatable, and by the end, I truly loved her character.
Nick and Kensie’s relationship is the sweetest slow burn. It’s clear how much Nick adores her, and watching Kensie gradually let her guard down and grow more confident in both herself and their relationship was so sweet. They share so many tender moments, and Nick being her first in many ways felt really special. It was nice to see her experience those milestones with someone who truly cherished her.
I also appreciated the presence of mentors and Nick’s friend group— thoughtful, supportive moments woven throughout the story that added warmth. Prayer is gently woven throughout the book, from Nick and Kensie praying for each other to having others lift them up in prayer as well. The way faith is portrayed feels natural and authentic, and the theme of loving others like Jesus really resonated with me.
If you love slow-burn romances with emotional depth, meaningful growth, and themes of faith and healing, this one is worth picking up.
✨Includes:✨
English Teacher
PE Teacher/ Coach
Enemies To More
He Falls First
Forced Proximity
One Bed
Slow Burn
Forced Collaboration
“Hate How Much I Want You” Energy
He gives her nicknames
Forehead kisses
Favorites:
💙Love him like Jesus.
💙Being not okay together
💙The trip to Anchorage
💙”Like I said, I pay attention.”
💙Sharing their demons
💙”As long as she’ll have me, she’s mine.”
💙He reads her favorite book
💙Thursday night dates
💙The locks at Lover’s Ledge
💙High heart rates
💙N+K
💙How much their students love seeing them together.
💙The dance
💙Nick being with her in Mississippi
💙The epilogue
Thank you Drew Taylor for the gifted ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Nick is a genuinely good man who has lost his way and drifted from his relationship with God. I couldn’t help but root for him from the start. He doesn’t shy away from talking through what he’s struggling with or showing how deeply things affect him. His natural protectiveness stood out right away, and the way he pursued Kensie—with patience, thoughtfulness, and steady reassurance—was incredibly sweet. He consistently showed up for her in both big and small ways, whether that meant standing up to his father on her behalf or quietly taking care of her, like packing a bag when she was too stubborn to do it herself. He also challenged Kensie to recognize her worth, encouraging her to stand up for herself and stop allowing others to take advantage of her kindness. Watching him slowly find his way back to his faith added meaningful depth to his character.
Kensie took a little longer to grow on me. Early on, the intensity of her resentment toward Nick felt misplaced, and some of her judgments—particularly a comment about STDs—went too far. That said, I appreciated that she eventually acknowledged her behavior, apologized, and owned the immaturity of her grudge. As her treatment of Nick softened, my feelings toward her did too. Her people-pleasing tendencies were extremely relatable, and by the end, I truly loved her character.
Nick and Kensie’s relationship is the sweetest slow burn. It’s clear how much Nick adores her, and watching Kensie gradually let her guard down and grow more confident in both herself and their relationship was so sweet. They share so many tender moments, and Nick being her first in many ways felt really special. It was nice to see her experience those milestones with someone who truly cherished her.
I also appreciated the presence of mentors and Nick’s friend group— thoughtful, supportive moments woven throughout the story that added warmth. Prayer is gently woven throughout the book, from Nick and Kensie praying for each other to having others lift them up in prayer as well. The way faith is portrayed feels natural and authentic, and the theme of loving others like Jesus really resonated with me.
If you love slow-burn romances with emotional depth, meaningful growth, and themes of faith and healing, this one is worth picking up.
✨Includes:✨
English Teacher
PE Teacher/ Coach
Enemies To More
He Falls First
Forced Proximity
One Bed
Slow Burn
Forced Collaboration
“Hate How Much I Want You” Energy
He gives her nicknames
Forehead kisses
Favorites:
💙Love him like Jesus.
💙Being not okay together
💙The trip to Anchorage
💙”Like I said, I pay attention.”
💙Sharing their demons
💙”As long as she’ll have me, she’s mine.”
💙He reads her favorite book
💙Thursday night dates
💙The locks at Lover’s Ledge
💙High heart rates
💙N+K
💙How much their students love seeing them together.
💙The dance
💙Nick being with her in Mississippi
💙The epilogue
Thank you Drew Taylor for the gifted ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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