What do you think?
Rate this book
Kirby Falls #4
Leaf You Hanging
Jack Ellis is getting along just fine. Well, fine enough, at least. He works at his bar. He takes care of his grandmother. But no one really knows how thoroughly he’s hidden himself away.
That’s the price you pay when everyone remembers you as a troublemaking teenage delinquent. It doesn’t matter that he’s now over thirty and a successful business owner. Small towns and small minds never seem to change.
Bonnie Jensen is the consummate good girl. She dedicates her time to her family, friends, and community. She loves her job and her students. Her loyalty knows no bounds. That’s why, on the day her divorce is final, she’d do anything to wipe the slate clean and prove to herself that she isn’t doomed to love her ex-husband for the rest of her miserable life.
When Bonnie’s presence in Jack’s bar threatens the delicate equilibrium he’s worked so hard to protect, Jack finds himself in an interesting predicament. One night of brutal honesty connects them, igniting an unexpected friendship neither of them could have predicted.
Jack starts to wonder what he could possibly offer the woman who takes care of everyone around her. Turns out a friends-with-benefits arrangement is just what the good girl had in mind.
But as time goes on, it quickly becomes clear that there’s more to the old saying opposites attract. Bonnie couldn’t have known that Jack would guard her heart as fiercely as he does his own. Nor could she have anticipated the softness he keeps tucked away.
Sometimes taking a walk on the wild side leads to unforeseen consequences, like losing your heart to the motorcycle-riding former bad boy you never saw coming.
Book #4 in the Kirby Falls small-town contemporary series follows the spicy romance between a people-pleasing school teacher and the tattooed bartender with a troublemaking past. ‘Leaf You Hanging’ is a full-length novel filled with humor, heat, and a swoony happily ever after.
That’s the price you pay when everyone remembers you as a troublemaking teenage delinquent. It doesn’t matter that he’s now over thirty and a successful business owner. Small towns and small minds never seem to change.
Bonnie Jensen is the consummate good girl. She dedicates her time to her family, friends, and community. She loves her job and her students. Her loyalty knows no bounds. That’s why, on the day her divorce is final, she’d do anything to wipe the slate clean and prove to herself that she isn’t doomed to love her ex-husband for the rest of her miserable life.
When Bonnie’s presence in Jack’s bar threatens the delicate equilibrium he’s worked so hard to protect, Jack finds himself in an interesting predicament. One night of brutal honesty connects them, igniting an unexpected friendship neither of them could have predicted.
Jack starts to wonder what he could possibly offer the woman who takes care of everyone around her. Turns out a friends-with-benefits arrangement is just what the good girl had in mind.
But as time goes on, it quickly becomes clear that there’s more to the old saying opposites attract. Bonnie couldn’t have known that Jack would guard her heart as fiercely as he does his own. Nor could she have anticipated the softness he keeps tucked away.
Sometimes taking a walk on the wild side leads to unforeseen consequences, like losing your heart to the motorcycle-riding former bad boy you never saw coming.
Book #4 in the Kirby Falls small-town contemporary series follows the spicy romance between a people-pleasing school teacher and the tattooed bartender with a troublemaking past. ‘Leaf You Hanging’ is a full-length novel filled with humor, heat, and a swoony happily ever after.
324 pages, Paperback
Published October 28, 2025
57 people are currently reading
4102 people want to read
About the author
Laney Hatcher
16 books362 followersSign up for my newsletter: https://laneyhatcher.myflodesk.com/ne...
Laney Hatcher is a firm believer that there is a spreadsheet for every occasion and pie is always the answer. She is an author of stories both old and new where the HEAs are always guaranteed. Often too practical for her own good, Laney enjoys her life in the southern United States with her husband, children, and incredibly entitled cat.
Laney Hatcher is a firm believer that there is a spreadsheet for every occasion and pie is always the answer. She is an author of stories both old and new where the HEAs are always guaranteed. Often too practical for her own good, Laney enjoys her life in the southern United States with her husband, children, and incredibly entitled cat.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Read
January 13, 2026
Check out Leaf You Hanging TODAY!
🏍️ Reformed Bad Boy
💔 Divorced Heroine
🌶️ Open Door
🏔️ Small Town Charm
★★Grab Your Copy★★
Kindle Unlimited EBOOK: https://geni.us/LYH-FB
Amazon Print: https://amzn.to/3JyAMbI
Barnes and Noble Paperback: https://bit.ly/3X8mNMV
Signed Paperback: https://bit.ly/47p0CXN
October 28, 2025
I went full Panda mode when this ARC hit my inbox!
Saying I’m a fan of Laney’s stories would be an understatement. Her stories just pull you in from the first page and you won’t be able to put her books down until the end (and in this case the bonus epilogue.
Bonnie’s story has been brewing in Kirby Falls for a while now. She fell in love and got married to her high school sweetheart but now at 31, and freshly divorced she has to start all over again.
Enter an unlikely suitor, Jack. Town lone wolf and reformed bad boy, Jack is everything Bonnie needed and more. He sees her like no one else has and accepts her just as she is.
The tension is great, the build up phenomenal. Once you start reading Laney’s books you are completely hooked. And I’m so glad that there is at least one more in the Kirby Falls universe.
Saying I’m a fan of Laney’s stories would be an understatement. Her stories just pull you in from the first page and you won’t be able to put her books down until the end (and in this case the bonus epilogue.
Bonnie’s story has been brewing in Kirby Falls for a while now. She fell in love and got married to her high school sweetheart but now at 31, and freshly divorced she has to start all over again.
Enter an unlikely suitor, Jack. Town lone wolf and reformed bad boy, Jack is everything Bonnie needed and more. He sees her like no one else has and accepts her just as she is.
The tension is great, the build up phenomenal. Once you start reading Laney’s books you are completely hooked. And I’m so glad that there is at least one more in the Kirby Falls universe.
October 28, 2025
5/5 Stars | Therapy for Eldest Daughters Everywhere 💐😭💖
What I loved: I am not the official™ eldest daughter, but I am the de facto eldest daughter, and dear reader, I was not prepared to be doing inner child work in a romcom—but here we are. Thanks for that, Laney. This book healed something tiny and tender in me that always feels like an inconvenience to people who “love me” or whatever (ugh, how dare they??). There were so many moments I had to either cackle or set the book down and cry for a bit. Seriously, I laughed so hard my family had to check on me a time or two while reading this one. I am moved by how moved I am, if that makes sense. The humor was sharp and self-aware. The emotion? Piercingly gentle. The quotes that live rent-free in my brain:
“The only thing worse than being an inconvenience was being a politician or maybe a male podcaster.”
“You’re not something that needs to be handled, Bonnie.”
And honestly, it’s not even just the romance (though, delicious). It’s the family dynamics and the growth there, the friendships, and just the way every relationship in this book matters. This series is my Roman Empire. My safe place. My serotonin. Laney Hatcher has bottled lightning, and I never want this ride to end—but thank god for rereads. ALSO I LOVE YOU OREO AND LIA YOU ARE MY FAVORITE HUMOROUS CRITTER AND SASSY OLDER FAMILY MEMBER. (they are all my favorites, who am I kidding?)
What I didn’t like: Nothing. No notes. Perfection achieved. Prepare for me to be insufferable about this book FOR YEARS TO COME, MY FRIENDS.
What I loved: I am not the official™ eldest daughter, but I am the de facto eldest daughter, and dear reader, I was not prepared to be doing inner child work in a romcom—but here we are. Thanks for that, Laney. This book healed something tiny and tender in me that always feels like an inconvenience to people who “love me” or whatever (ugh, how dare they??). There were so many moments I had to either cackle or set the book down and cry for a bit. Seriously, I laughed so hard my family had to check on me a time or two while reading this one. I am moved by how moved I am, if that makes sense. The humor was sharp and self-aware. The emotion? Piercingly gentle. The quotes that live rent-free in my brain:
“The only thing worse than being an inconvenience was being a politician or maybe a male podcaster.”
“You’re not something that needs to be handled, Bonnie.”
And honestly, it’s not even just the romance (though, delicious). It’s the family dynamics and the growth there, the friendships, and just the way every relationship in this book matters. This series is my Roman Empire. My safe place. My serotonin. Laney Hatcher has bottled lightning, and I never want this ride to end—but thank god for rereads. ALSO I LOVE YOU OREO AND LIA YOU ARE MY FAVORITE HUMOROUS CRITTER AND SASSY OLDER FAMILY MEMBER. (they are all my favorites, who am I kidding?)
What I didn’t like: Nothing. No notes. Perfection achieved. Prepare for me to be insufferable about this book FOR YEARS TO COME, MY FRIENDS.
November 9, 2025
I love this author's writing so much, it feels like she has a window into my brain with the way she can elicit emotion from me (and this was a bit of a therapy read for me). The town, its character and the people who live there feel so real to me and I high-key want to live there, join a bowling league, have grannies teach me to knit and have a healthy grown-up relationship where people actually communicate.
(The slutty little glasses *chef's kiss*)
(The slutty little glasses *chef's kiss*)
October 25, 2025
I adore the Kirby Falls series and this book was the perfect addition! I loved the “bad boy/good girl” dynamic…with a bad boy that js a slutty little glasses and man-bun wearing man. I also loved Bonnie and how the book showed how far she grows from the opening scene- with Jack’s help and helping herself.
The communication in this book is also great - yes, there are some misunderstandings but Bonnie and Jack talk them out like adults. I also loved seeing friends from prior books (Becca is forever my favorite sunshine girl!)
Thank you Laney for sharing this ARC and I can’t wait for the next book!
The communication in this book is also great - yes, there are some misunderstandings but Bonnie and Jack talk them out like adults. I also loved seeing friends from prior books (Becca is forever my favorite sunshine girl!)
Thank you Laney for sharing this ARC and I can’t wait for the next book!
October 30, 2025
ARC review
"Leaf You Hanging" by Laney Hatcher is part of the "Kirby Falls" series.
This can be read as a standalone, but I recommend the whole series.
I received an advance reader copy from the author.
Opinions from this review are completely my own.
What you can expect:
- reformed bad boy/ good girl (that wants to be bad sometimes)
- divorced heroine
- bar owner / school teacher
- small town romance
- opposites attract
- open door spice
- cozy autumn setting
- a cute bunny
Bonnie is a recently divorced school teacher.
After "celebrating" her divorce a bit too much at a bar, Jack, the tattooed bartender takes care of her.
They soon start a friendship that turn in a friends-with-benefits situation.
Even if they are so different, Bonnie and Jack have such a good connection.
I love reading books with characters in their 30's that actually communicate.
The fact that the story tales place in a small town bring a cozy feel to it.
Bonnie has her family and friends that love her and Jack has his grandma.
There are so many moments that I loved and that made me happy or emotional.
From the texts in the middle of the night, to the motorcycle rides to him helping her during panic attacks.
They both have insecurities, but can see the best in the other one.
I liked all the books in this series, but this one is definitely my favorite.
"Leaf You Hanging" by Laney Hatcher is part of the "Kirby Falls" series.
This can be read as a standalone, but I recommend the whole series.
I received an advance reader copy from the author.
Opinions from this review are completely my own.
What you can expect:
- reformed bad boy/ good girl (that wants to be bad sometimes)
- divorced heroine
- bar owner / school teacher
- small town romance
- opposites attract
- open door spice
- cozy autumn setting
- a cute bunny
Bonnie is a recently divorced school teacher.
After "celebrating" her divorce a bit too much at a bar, Jack, the tattooed bartender takes care of her.
They soon start a friendship that turn in a friends-with-benefits situation.
Even if they are so different, Bonnie and Jack have such a good connection.
I love reading books with characters in their 30's that actually communicate.
The fact that the story tales place in a small town bring a cozy feel to it.
Bonnie has her family and friends that love her and Jack has his grandma.
There are so many moments that I loved and that made me happy or emotional.
From the texts in the middle of the night, to the motorcycle rides to him helping her during panic attacks.
They both have insecurities, but can see the best in the other one.
I liked all the books in this series, but this one is definitely my favorite.
November 22, 2025
Laney Hatcher does it again. I feel like a broken record when I say she creates characters I would protect with my life, but it’s never been more true than with Leaf You Hanging. I would burn the world down for Bonnie Clark (I refuse to use Jensen). She’s tender, anxious, resilient, and so incredibly real. And Jack Ellis? The reformed bad boy with a motorcycle, tattoos, and a pair of reading glasses that should come with a warning label—he’s everything she deserves.
Dedicated “for the eldest daughters,” this book hit me straight in the chest. Bonnie’s need to keep everything together, to take care of everyone but herself, felt so authentic it nearly split me open. The way Laney handles her anxiety isn’t dramatized or glossed over—it’s honest and deeply human. Jack sees her, truly sees her, and the care he shows is the kind of soft, steady love that stays with you.
Their friends-with-benefits setup builds into something both fiery and profoundly tender, filled with quiet intimacy and fall-tinged longing. Jack’s nickname for Bonnie (which I won’t spoil) made me melt, and I loved how the story pulled him—reluctant, rough-around-the-edges, and a little isolated—back into the heart of Kirby Falls. His bond with his grandmother, Lia, and his unlikely stint coaching the girls’ soccer team gave this book that perfect blend of humor and heart that Laney always nails.
If I had to make a list of my three favorite things (IYKYK):
• “Confessions in the dark.”
• “Soft reminders cloaked in comfort.”
• “The smell of leather and leaves and something dark and tempting.”
This book is comfort and swoon and every emotion you feel deep in your chest. Leaf You Hanging is my favorite in the Kirby Falls series (shhh, don’t tell the others), and the teaser for what’s next already has me counting the days until March.
If you love small towns, bad boys with good hearts, and heroines learning they’re allowed to take up space, then Kirby Falls series should be at the very top of your list.
Dedicated “for the eldest daughters,” this book hit me straight in the chest. Bonnie’s need to keep everything together, to take care of everyone but herself, felt so authentic it nearly split me open. The way Laney handles her anxiety isn’t dramatized or glossed over—it’s honest and deeply human. Jack sees her, truly sees her, and the care he shows is the kind of soft, steady love that stays with you.
Their friends-with-benefits setup builds into something both fiery and profoundly tender, filled with quiet intimacy and fall-tinged longing. Jack’s nickname for Bonnie (which I won’t spoil) made me melt, and I loved how the story pulled him—reluctant, rough-around-the-edges, and a little isolated—back into the heart of Kirby Falls. His bond with his grandmother, Lia, and his unlikely stint coaching the girls’ soccer team gave this book that perfect blend of humor and heart that Laney always nails.
If I had to make a list of my three favorite things (IYKYK):
• “Confessions in the dark.”
• “Soft reminders cloaked in comfort.”
• “The smell of leather and leaves and something dark and tempting.”
This book is comfort and swoon and every emotion you feel deep in your chest. Leaf You Hanging is my favorite in the Kirby Falls series (shhh, don’t tell the others), and the teaser for what’s next already has me counting the days until March.
If you love small towns, bad boys with good hearts, and heroines learning they’re allowed to take up space, then Kirby Falls series should be at the very top of your list.
November 21, 2025
I absolutely love this series and this may be my favorite book in the series. Laney’s writing is so beautiful, full of emotion and all the feels.
Bonnie reminds me of myself…a people pleasure, has trouble saying no and has some self doubt. She is so kind, helpful but also needs to give herself a break.
I love Jack…he’s a good man but has a history and the town hasn’t let him forget it. The townspeople are not kind to him and they do not know the entire story.
Bonnie and Jack have a wonderful connection and I love how their friendship grows into the most beautiful love story. They help one another work their personal issues and become each other confidants.
Filled with love, emotion and a beautiful HEA. A must read.
Bonnie reminds me of myself…a people pleasure, has trouble saying no and has some self doubt. She is so kind, helpful but also needs to give herself a break.
I love Jack…he’s a good man but has a history and the town hasn’t let him forget it. The townspeople are not kind to him and they do not know the entire story.
Bonnie and Jack have a wonderful connection and I love how their friendship grows into the most beautiful love story. They help one another work their personal issues and become each other confidants.
Filled with love, emotion and a beautiful HEA. A must read.
November 1, 2025
Oh my gosh! This book was everything I knew it would be. Motorcycle riding grumpy bar owner shows his soft side for one girl and kids who he coaches. Jack Ellis is a secret softie who ends up getting schemed by an 8 year old to be the new head coach of her soccer team. Bonnie is an art teacher who ends up getting a divorce. Her divorce sends her into wanting to “celebrate” at Jack’s bar. As Jack gets to know Bonnie he ends up letting down her walls. But he thinks she’s a good girl, little does he know that good girl steals a classroom bunny every weekend. 😉
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2025
Fun fact about Laney Hatcher books: you open it up to “just get it started” and before you know it you’re 40% of the way in. Bonnie and Jack were a master class on dealing with past demons and letting them go. Such a sweet opposites attract duo that found the thing that wanted most but least expected in one another. 10/10 once again for this author and this dynamite series.
November 4, 2025
Thank you to the author for this ARC! I was so happy to return to Kirby Falls!
Bonnie is a character I wanted to learn more about and so happy to now have her story and with Jack. I love the tension. I definitely recommend this whole series!
Bonnie is a character I wanted to learn more about and so happy to now have her story and with Jack. I love the tension. I definitely recommend this whole series!
October 25, 2025
I received an ARC from the author today.
I really loved Bonnie and Jack's love story. They were both so good at hiding themselves and I loved how they both found their happily ever after together. They both truly deserved it. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I really loved Bonnie and Jack's love story. They were both so good at hiding themselves and I loved how they both found their happily ever after together. They both truly deserved it. I look forward to the next book in this series.
November 16, 2025
I loved this book so much! Jack and Bonnie stole my heart - I loved how different they were and yet they were perfect for one another. They brought out the best in each other and it was so easy to be invested in them as a couple. Honestly I don't have a lot of coherent thoughts right now; to me this was a perfect read and I expect it'll make my all-time favorites list.
November 12, 2025
Another wonderful Kirby Falls book. I just love this series. The setting. The characters. The small town feels. I was so excited for Bonnie’s story. Love the “bad boy” vibes. I married the “bad boy” well a reformed bad boy. I loved the little soccer stars. Oreo. I also loved the emotional journey this book took you on. Jack and Bonnie had a lot to overcome. I loved watching them be vulnerable and grow with one another. So glad they got their HEA. Can’t wait for the next book.
November 10, 2025
This series just gets better and better. I wanted Bonnie’s story so badly and I wanted her to have her HEA! And boy howdy, enter bad boy (cinnamon roll) Jack! They were just what the other needed! I loved it!
November 4, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Bonnie has spent her life caring for everyone except herself. When an unexpected divorce leaves her shattered, she never expects anyone to be there to pick up the pieces. Jack may be a former bad boy but he finds himself drawn to Bonnie’s tender spirit. He hopes to be the one to show her that she is more than what she can do for others.
Leaf You Hanging is the fourth book in the Kirby Falls series. While you could read it as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading the series in order. This opposites attract romance does contain open-door content.
Ahh! I’ve been waiting for Bonnie’s story since her dramatic appearance in Leaf and Let Die. I knew it was going to be emotional but what a rollercoaster. Both of the MCs go through so much personal growth throughout the book and it really shows not only in the relationship with each other but also their friendships and familial ties.
Bonnie and Jack’s story is everything I hoped it would be and more. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Bonnie has spent her life caring for everyone except herself. When an unexpected divorce leaves her shattered, she never expects anyone to be there to pick up the pieces. Jack may be a former bad boy but he finds himself drawn to Bonnie’s tender spirit. He hopes to be the one to show her that she is more than what she can do for others.
Leaf You Hanging is the fourth book in the Kirby Falls series. While you could read it as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading the series in order. This opposites attract romance does contain open-door content.
Ahh! I’ve been waiting for Bonnie’s story since her dramatic appearance in Leaf and Let Die. I knew it was going to be emotional but what a rollercoaster. Both of the MCs go through so much personal growth throughout the book and it really shows not only in the relationship with each other but also their friendships and familial ties.
Bonnie and Jack’s story is everything I hoped it would be and more. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
November 26, 2025
Bonnie and Jack!! 💛💛
Five wonderful stars for this gem by Laney Hatcher ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In Leaf You Hanging, Bonnie’s divorce from Danny is finalized and she strikes up a friends-with-benefits situation with Jack, the reformed bad boy bar owner in Kirby Falls. Bonnie and Jack might say they’re keeping it casual, but nothing about their budding relationship says temporary. But Jack is still wondering - what will happen if there’s a chance for reconciliation between Bonnie and her ex-husband?
I’ve been waiting for Bonnie’s HEA for so long and gosh, did her book deliver. She’s a people pleaser and constantly giving to others without taking care of herself. Enter Jack: the recluse bar owner who looks out for Bonnie’s best interests and puts her needs first. Jack was so incredibly sweet with Bonnie. And as his relationship with Bonnie grew, so did his footprint in Kirby Falls. I loved that he became more involved with the town after growing up without stability or lasting relationships. His trauma with abandonment really pulled on my heartstrings. Bonnie and Jack both had big emotional journeys in this book and their relationship was so lovely. I loved rooting for both of them 🥹🥰❤️
Laney Hatcher is incredibly talented at creating deeply developed characters you’ll fall in love with. At the end of her books I really feel like I’ve gained new friends in Kirby Falls. Leaf You Hanging also welcomed back several of her characters from earlier books in the series, which I loved!
In Leaf You Hanging, you’ll find:
Reformed bad boy
Divorced heroine
Motorcycle rides
Texting banter
Opposites attract
Small town charm
I’ve loved this series so much. Leaf You Hanging is available now in Kindle Unlimited! 💛❤️🥰
Five wonderful stars for this gem by Laney Hatcher ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In Leaf You Hanging, Bonnie’s divorce from Danny is finalized and she strikes up a friends-with-benefits situation with Jack, the reformed bad boy bar owner in Kirby Falls. Bonnie and Jack might say they’re keeping it casual, but nothing about their budding relationship says temporary. But Jack is still wondering - what will happen if there’s a chance for reconciliation between Bonnie and her ex-husband?
I’ve been waiting for Bonnie’s HEA for so long and gosh, did her book deliver. She’s a people pleaser and constantly giving to others without taking care of herself. Enter Jack: the recluse bar owner who looks out for Bonnie’s best interests and puts her needs first. Jack was so incredibly sweet with Bonnie. And as his relationship with Bonnie grew, so did his footprint in Kirby Falls. I loved that he became more involved with the town after growing up without stability or lasting relationships. His trauma with abandonment really pulled on my heartstrings. Bonnie and Jack both had big emotional journeys in this book and their relationship was so lovely. I loved rooting for both of them 🥹🥰❤️
Laney Hatcher is incredibly talented at creating deeply developed characters you’ll fall in love with. At the end of her books I really feel like I’ve gained new friends in Kirby Falls. Leaf You Hanging also welcomed back several of her characters from earlier books in the series, which I loved!
In Leaf You Hanging, you’ll find:
Reformed bad boy
Divorced heroine
Motorcycle rides
Texting banter
Opposites attract
Small town charm
I’ve loved this series so much. Leaf You Hanging is available now in Kindle Unlimited! 💛❤️🥰
November 11, 2025
Leaf you hanging by Laney Hatcher
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
This book was an amazing!! Jack and Bonnie had such a great story. These two had an unconventional start. Jack the town bad boy and Bonnie newly divorced strike up a friendship and soon find themselves enjoying being with each. Through out the book they both are forced to face things that having them questioning if what they have can be more.
I read this book on one day and enjoyed it so much!! This was my first 5 star read in a long time !!
As always Laney Hatcher hits it out the park! I cannot wait for the next installment.
#booknerd #bookworm #bookreview #bookstagram #bookishpost #romancereader
#booksofinstagram #bookrecs #bookrecommendations #bookreading
#bookreder #readersofinstagram
#books #bookclub #booklover #bookstagrammer #bookstagrammer #igreads
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
This book was an amazing!! Jack and Bonnie had such a great story. These two had an unconventional start. Jack the town bad boy and Bonnie newly divorced strike up a friendship and soon find themselves enjoying being with each. Through out the book they both are forced to face things that having them questioning if what they have can be more.
I read this book on one day and enjoyed it so much!! This was my first 5 star read in a long time !!
As always Laney Hatcher hits it out the park! I cannot wait for the next installment.
#booknerd #bookworm #bookreview #bookstagram #bookishpost #romancereader
#booksofinstagram #bookrecs #bookrecommendations #bookreading
#bookreder #readersofinstagram
#books #bookclub #booklover #bookstagrammer #bookstagrammer #igreads
October 22, 2025
Thank you Laney for this ARC 🫶🏻🫶🏻
Bonnie is newly divorced and healing. She’s always been the good girl and people pleaser. Jack, the town bad boy, has always led himself to believe he deserves to be alone. When these two collide at his bar, a sweet friendship starts!
As they get to know each other over texts, they become friends with benefits. He takes her out on his motorcycle, she makes him love bunnies and they fall in love.
When Jack’s insecurity about Bonnie’s ex husband, they have to face their pasts. This romance isn’t only about love, it’s about grief, healing, and finding yourself!
Bonnie is newly divorced and healing. She’s always been the good girl and people pleaser. Jack, the town bad boy, has always led himself to believe he deserves to be alone. When these two collide at his bar, a sweet friendship starts!
As they get to know each other over texts, they become friends with benefits. He takes her out on his motorcycle, she makes him love bunnies and they fall in love.
When Jack’s insecurity about Bonnie’s ex husband, they have to face their pasts. This romance isn’t only about love, it’s about grief, healing, and finding yourself!
November 24, 2025
Format - E ARC
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice- 🌶 🌶
Series- Kilby Falls #4
Troupes- Reformed Bad Boy, Divorced Heroine, Small Town Romance, Opposites Attract, Open Door Spice, Cozy Autumn Setting
CW-
This is the forth book in this series and all I can say is please Laney can I live in kilby Falls forever! I have love this series from the beginning and this book is no different. They all stand alone just fine but it is best if you read them together.
Jake and Bonnie weren’t even on my radar and yet somehow they stole my heart and some sleep. Jake our reluctant cinnamon roll and sweet take care of everyone but herself Bonnie. They are the perfect pair. He needs someone to be soft with and she needs someone to take care of her “needs”.
I loved the characters, the town, the Pinning and witty banter but exceptionally a Softy bad boy on a motorcycle!
Thank you Laney Hatcher for the early copy, all opinions are my own and I’m sorry I’m so late!
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice- 🌶 🌶
Series- Kilby Falls #4
Troupes- Reformed Bad Boy, Divorced Heroine, Small Town Romance, Opposites Attract, Open Door Spice, Cozy Autumn Setting
CW-
This is the forth book in this series and all I can say is please Laney can I live in kilby Falls forever! I have love this series from the beginning and this book is no different. They all stand alone just fine but it is best if you read them together.
Jake and Bonnie weren’t even on my radar and yet somehow they stole my heart and some sleep. Jake our reluctant cinnamon roll and sweet take care of everyone but herself Bonnie. They are the perfect pair. He needs someone to be soft with and she needs someone to take care of her “needs”.
I loved the characters, the town, the Pinning and witty banter but exceptionally a Softy bad boy on a motorcycle!
Thank you Laney Hatcher for the early copy, all opinions are my own and I’m sorry I’m so late!
November 30, 2025
Leaf me Happy
This was the warm hug of a read I needed. Bonnie and Jack are characters I wish were real, so I could be friends with them and hangout (& help bunny-nap). Normally I wouldn't love the speed of their relationship, but it worked because they weren't those young inexperienced type. They had already lived life a little and been handed a few unexpected twists and found each other in the process. My only real complaint is that the next book is several months away.
This was the warm hug of a read I needed. Bonnie and Jack are characters I wish were real, so I could be friends with them and hangout (& help bunny-nap). Normally I wouldn't love the speed of their relationship, but it worked because they weren't those young inexperienced type. They had already lived life a little and been handed a few unexpected twists and found each other in the process. My only real complaint is that the next book is several months away.
November 18, 2025
Laney Hatcher delivers a tender, emotionally layered, small-town romance in Leaf You Hanging, the fourth entry in her warm, witty, and deeply human Kirby Falls series. Jack and Bonnie’s story is a beautiful exploration of heartbreak, identity, healing, and the quiet, steady magic of being truly seen.
Jack Barnes, once the town “bad boy,” now owns Magnolia—the upscale bar that caters to Kirby Falls’ seasonal tourists (“leafers”). He’s a gruff, private, motorcycle-riding loner with a heart big enough to warm an entire mountain town…even if he doesn’t believe he belongs in it.
Bonnie Jensen, on the other hand, is the quintessential “good girl”—the art teacher who always smiles, always helps, and always puts everyone else first. But after the collapse of her thirteen-year marriage to her middle-school/high-school sweetheart, Bonnie’s entire identity crumbles. She doesn’t know who she is without the title of perfect wife.
The night her divorce becomes final, Bonnie stumbles into Magnolia, heartbroken, lost, and gets far too drunk. Jack—stern, steady, and unexpectedly gentle—steps in. He holds her hair, listens to her grief, and tucks her safely into bed. It’s a small moment, but it sparks a slow, meaningful connection neither sees coming.
Their relationship blossoms through late-night texts, laughter over favorite things, and Jack’s reluctant, hilarious sponsorship and coaching of an elementary school girls’ soccer team (“conned” into it by an 8-year-old). When Bonnie faces judgment and intrusive questions from town busybodies, Jack swoops in and rescues her—leading to a motorcycle ride under the stars and a breathtaking first kiss at the overlook.
What follows is a messy, tender, intimate friends-with-benefits arrangement that becomes anything but casual. Jack adores the Bonnie beneath the people-pleasing veneer. Bonnie feels seen and cherished in a way she never has before. Their chemistry is steamy, but their emotional connection? Even hotter.
But secrets, insecurity, and old wounds threaten everything they’re building. Bonnie hides her continued visits to her ex’s dying mother out of guilt. Jack hides Danny’s toxic attempt to scare him off. Both keep parts of themselves tucked away, afraid to lose what they’ve found. When grief and fear collide, Jack’s abandonment issues blow everything apart. His gut-wrenching spiral—pushing Bonnie away before she can leave him—feels painfully real.
With a little nudge from his wise grandmother, Jack finally sees what he’s risking…and he fights to win Bonnie back.
Hatcher excels at portraying emotional vulnerability:
Bonnie’s ingrained need to please
Jack’s fear of never being enough
The ache of building a life after heartbreak
The courage it takes to choose love again
Leaf You Hanging is a deeply satisfying, tender, and beautifully written love story about acceptance, forgiveness, and finding someone who sees all of you—and loves you more for it. 🍁🏍️💛
Jack Barnes, once the town “bad boy,” now owns Magnolia—the upscale bar that caters to Kirby Falls’ seasonal tourists (“leafers”). He’s a gruff, private, motorcycle-riding loner with a heart big enough to warm an entire mountain town…even if he doesn’t believe he belongs in it.
Bonnie Jensen, on the other hand, is the quintessential “good girl”—the art teacher who always smiles, always helps, and always puts everyone else first. But after the collapse of her thirteen-year marriage to her middle-school/high-school sweetheart, Bonnie’s entire identity crumbles. She doesn’t know who she is without the title of perfect wife.
The night her divorce becomes final, Bonnie stumbles into Magnolia, heartbroken, lost, and gets far too drunk. Jack—stern, steady, and unexpectedly gentle—steps in. He holds her hair, listens to her grief, and tucks her safely into bed. It’s a small moment, but it sparks a slow, meaningful connection neither sees coming.
Their relationship blossoms through late-night texts, laughter over favorite things, and Jack’s reluctant, hilarious sponsorship and coaching of an elementary school girls’ soccer team (“conned” into it by an 8-year-old). When Bonnie faces judgment and intrusive questions from town busybodies, Jack swoops in and rescues her—leading to a motorcycle ride under the stars and a breathtaking first kiss at the overlook.
What follows is a messy, tender, intimate friends-with-benefits arrangement that becomes anything but casual. Jack adores the Bonnie beneath the people-pleasing veneer. Bonnie feels seen and cherished in a way she never has before. Their chemistry is steamy, but their emotional connection? Even hotter.
But secrets, insecurity, and old wounds threaten everything they’re building. Bonnie hides her continued visits to her ex’s dying mother out of guilt. Jack hides Danny’s toxic attempt to scare him off. Both keep parts of themselves tucked away, afraid to lose what they’ve found. When grief and fear collide, Jack’s abandonment issues blow everything apart. His gut-wrenching spiral—pushing Bonnie away before she can leave him—feels painfully real.
With a little nudge from his wise grandmother, Jack finally sees what he’s risking…and he fights to win Bonnie back.
Hatcher excels at portraying emotional vulnerability:
Bonnie’s ingrained need to please
Jack’s fear of never being enough
The ache of building a life after heartbreak
The courage it takes to choose love again
Leaf You Hanging is a deeply satisfying, tender, and beautifully written love story about acceptance, forgiveness, and finding someone who sees all of you—and loves you more for it. 🍁🏍️💛
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2025
So this is book 4 of the series and this one kind of is resonating with me a lil bit.
Bonnie, the main character, is a good girl and just recently got divorced and is having a hard time accepting that this part of her life is over. I unfortunately can relate. While I didn't marry my high school sweetheart, I was with my husband for a lot of years and although we have plenty of good memories, we probably also stayed together for longer than we should have because we also were not happy for a while. But we tried to make things work for not wanting to accept that we couldn't fix things or one day get back to how we were when we were happy and accepted this rather than be alone or admit our marriage was no longer what it once was because that felt like admitting failure. At least eventually we did end things and I have definitely come to realize there's no point in staying together if you're not happy and that I deserve more.
While Bonnie and Jack's relationship started off casual, it became obvious that both of them had real feelings for each other though neither wanted to admit it. Bonnie had decided she couldn't jump right into a new relationship without the town judging her and the local bad boy biker bartender wouldn't likely want to settle down with her and Jack thought Bonnie deserved more than he could offer though he did eventually realize he wanted to really be with her and not just mess around. Of course due to stubborness on both sides, first we must get past the annoying drama at the almost end of the book breakup and both miserable to get them to both realize they belong together but at least they do finally get their HEA.
Bonnie, the main character, is a good girl and just recently got divorced and is having a hard time accepting that this part of her life is over. I unfortunately can relate. While I didn't marry my high school sweetheart, I was with my husband for a lot of years and although we have plenty of good memories, we probably also stayed together for longer than we should have because we also were not happy for a while. But we tried to make things work for not wanting to accept that we couldn't fix things or one day get back to how we were when we were happy and accepted this rather than be alone or admit our marriage was no longer what it once was because that felt like admitting failure. At least eventually we did end things and I have definitely come to realize there's no point in staying together if you're not happy and that I deserve more.
While Bonnie and Jack's relationship started off casual, it became obvious that both of them had real feelings for each other though neither wanted to admit it. Bonnie had decided she couldn't jump right into a new relationship without the town judging her and the local bad boy biker bartender wouldn't likely want to settle down with her and Jack thought Bonnie deserved more than he could offer though he did eventually realize he wanted to really be with her and not just mess around. Of course due to stubborness on both sides, first we must get past the annoying drama at the almost end of the book breakup and both miserable to get them to both realize they belong together but at least they do finally get their HEA.
October 28, 2025
Oh my heart, this book. ❤
First, I’d like to thank Laney Hatcher for the dedication, we eldest daughters truly appreciate it.
And second, everything I read after that beautiful dedication cemented in my mind that this is the way to write a beautiful, emotional, and tenderhearted novel from two points of view, because Laney wrote both Bonnie’s and Jack’s thoughts and feelings and fears and insecurities so well that I couldn’t help but be swept away in wonder.
Bonnie Jensen has always been the perfect “Everything is fine!” type of person, she married her high school sweetheart, works as an art teacher, and everything is just peachy. Except it isn’t, she gets divorced, she has panic attacks – which she doesn’t tell anyone anything about – and may or may not steal a classroom pet… When Jack “What do you need?” Ellis – the smalltown bad boy with tattoos and motorcycles – crosses paths with Bonnie they both start to realize that maybe they don’t want to hide themselves from the world anymore. What follows is the perfect example of why I read books like the wonderful Kirby Falls series – these are stories about romance and happily ever afters, sure, but they are also stories about change, friendships, family dynamics, and the overall wonder of finding yourself and who you want to be. And who you want to be with.
Filled with gentle emotions, laugh-out-loud humor and heartwrenching moments that bring a tear to your eye, this was a book I didn’t want to end.
Thank you, Laney, for – finally – giving us Bonnie and Jack. ❤
First, I’d like to thank Laney Hatcher for the dedication, we eldest daughters truly appreciate it.
And second, everything I read after that beautiful dedication cemented in my mind that this is the way to write a beautiful, emotional, and tenderhearted novel from two points of view, because Laney wrote both Bonnie’s and Jack’s thoughts and feelings and fears and insecurities so well that I couldn’t help but be swept away in wonder.
Bonnie Jensen has always been the perfect “Everything is fine!” type of person, she married her high school sweetheart, works as an art teacher, and everything is just peachy. Except it isn’t, she gets divorced, she has panic attacks – which she doesn’t tell anyone anything about – and may or may not steal a classroom pet… When Jack “What do you need?” Ellis – the smalltown bad boy with tattoos and motorcycles – crosses paths with Bonnie they both start to realize that maybe they don’t want to hide themselves from the world anymore. What follows is the perfect example of why I read books like the wonderful Kirby Falls series – these are stories about romance and happily ever afters, sure, but they are also stories about change, friendships, family dynamics, and the overall wonder of finding yourself and who you want to be. And who you want to be with.
Filled with gentle emotions, laugh-out-loud humor and heartwrenching moments that bring a tear to your eye, this was a book I didn’t want to end.
Thank you, Laney, for – finally – giving us Bonnie and Jack. ❤
October 30, 2025
Oh boy, did I resonate with Bonnie’s character. People pleasing first born daughter 🙋♀️.
This story just came together so well, the characters with their baggage, how they were vulnerable and eventually so comfortable with each other. The exploration of how we’re viewed from young adult into adulthood, and the expectations that small town acquaintances can have was done so well.
The bad boy/good girl vibes were impeccable, and a personal thank you to the author for Jack’s glasses. Perfection.
The side characters were so fun. Especially Lia’s relationship with Jack, and the girls soccer team.
Cannot wait for the next book, the sneak peek was so intriguing!
This story just came together so well, the characters with their baggage, how they were vulnerable and eventually so comfortable with each other. The exploration of how we’re viewed from young adult into adulthood, and the expectations that small town acquaintances can have was done so well.
The bad boy/good girl vibes were impeccable, and a personal thank you to the author for Jack’s glasses. Perfection.
The side characters were so fun. Especially Lia’s relationship with Jack, and the girls soccer team.
Cannot wait for the next book, the sneak peek was so intriguing!
January 14, 2026
This 'bad boy loner/good girl people pleaser' romance continues the love life stories in the town of Kirby Falls.
It jumps forward in time to the day that Bonnie's divorce from her high school sweetheart is finalised. She ends the day by drowning her sorrows in the town's tourist bar and has to be saved from herself and others by bartender Jack, but all is not as it seems with him.
An enjoyable read from start to finish.
It jumps forward in time to the day that Bonnie's divorce from her high school sweetheart is finalised. She ends the day by drowning her sorrows in the town's tourist bar and has to be saved from herself and others by bartender Jack, but all is not as it seems with him.
An enjoyable read from start to finish.
November 7, 2025
This was definitely in the 3.5⭐️ range. I really enjoyed it and nonstop read it. I loved the journey and growth for both characters. I loved that Bonnie needed to find herself but did so with boundaries. I wish Jack had learned that maybe he needed some therapy but I appreciate that he saw his shortcomings and didn’t just run scared.
This was a great read and worth the time.
This was a great read and worth the time.
November 10, 2025
This one is my favorite in the series so far. I really liked Jack and Bonnie. I liked how the author focused on their relationship and character development. It was steamy, but it didn't feel like that was all that I was reading. I liked watching their relationship grow.
November 18, 2025
I’m loving this series. Small town romances are my fav
December 8, 2025
Another good story set in Kirby Falls. Bonnie and Jack were such a sweet couple, each with their own baggage they needed to work through. I did wish Bonnie and Jack would communicate instead of having internal monologues as to why they were undeserving of each other. I enjoyed seeing the siblings and friends from the previous books living their HEADS.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews