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Sweetbriar Mountain #4
Heart to Heart
Just friends.
That's all Liam Carter and I can ever be.
Sure, we’ve shared a kiss or two and our chemistry is off the charts.
And yeah, he’s too hot to be real and he looks at me like I’m the only woman in the world...
Pretending I don’t want to date him when he’s the sweetest man I’ve ever met is almost impossible.
But I can’t have him.
After what he went through, he deserves a fairytale. And I’m bad at love, with the reputation to match.
Add those to the rest of the reasons why I should keep my distance.
But here’s the big one:
Did I mention we work together now?
I’m the hot mess trying to start up a new business and he’s the got-it-all-together contractor in charge of the renovation.
The more time we spend together, the more I want—until I want it all.
How am I supposed to resist him now?
That's all Liam Carter and I can ever be.
Sure, we’ve shared a kiss or two and our chemistry is off the charts.
And yeah, he’s too hot to be real and he looks at me like I’m the only woman in the world...
Pretending I don’t want to date him when he’s the sweetest man I’ve ever met is almost impossible.
But I can’t have him.
After what he went through, he deserves a fairytale. And I’m bad at love, with the reputation to match.
Add those to the rest of the reasons why I should keep my distance.
But here’s the big one:
Did I mention we work together now?
I’m the hot mess trying to start up a new business and he’s the got-it-all-together contractor in charge of the renovation.
The more time we spend together, the more I want—until I want it all.
How am I supposed to resist him now?
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 2, 2023
232 people are currently reading
1260 people want to read
About the author
Nora Everly
32 books1,218 followersSign up for my newsletter: https://www.noraeverly.com/newsletter
Nora Everly is a lifelong bookworm. She started reading the good stuff once she was tall enough to sneak the romance novels off the top of her mother’s bookshelf and it has been non-stop ever since.
Once upon a time she was a substitute teacher and an educational assistant. Now, she’s a writer and stay at home mom to two small humans and one fat cat.
Nora lives in the Pacific Northwest with her family and her overactive imagination.
Follow Nora!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authornoraev...
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoraEverly
Nora Everly is a lifelong bookworm. She started reading the good stuff once she was tall enough to sneak the romance novels off the top of her mother’s bookshelf and it has been non-stop ever since.
Once upon a time she was a substitute teacher and an educational assistant. Now, she’s a writer and stay at home mom to two small humans and one fat cat.
Nora lives in the Pacific Northwest with her family and her overactive imagination.
Follow Nora!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authornoraev...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nora.everly/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoraEverly
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
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April 13, 2023
Heart to Heart is coming May 2nd!!
Are you ready for Holly and Liam?
Preorder here: https://mybook.to/HeartToHeartSBH
April 28, 2023
Liam Carter captured my heart in book one of this series and I was so excited to hear that he would be paired with Holly Barrett, especially after that swoony sneak peek in Conversation Hearts.
Sweetbriar has been the small town home of second chances for the Barrett siblings. It was a change to see more of a friends to lovers vibe with Heart to Heart and I really enjoyed it.
Liam followed Holly online while she was traveling for her blog and already had quite the crush on her before she moved back home. Holly is instantly attracted to Liam, but they are both dealing with some past traumas and acknowledge that they aren't in the right frame of mind for a relationship. We know what Liam is dealing with from previous books and we slowly find out what's going on with Holly. I feel like both characters showed a level of maturity in how they dealt with their issues while making space for each other.
These two connect on a deep level and their journey from friends to lovers is one of the most emotional ones I have ever read. Liam falls first, but Holly is not far behind. They find the most adorable ways to get closer (I won't spoil how, but it is one of my favorite things about this book). I would classify this as a steamy slow burn because they do not lack for chemistry while TRYING to be friends first.
The love story is the main attraction in this book for me, but I loved that there was a touch of suspense from outside sources. The ending wrapped everything up nicely without taking away from the HEA. Liam and Holly are meant to be and I was completely invested in them. Almost as much as the Barrett family was...
This is first and foremost a family series and I was so happy to see more of the Barretts. I adore everyone in that family and hope we get more books about them (especially Gram). It will be fantastic to watch the Barrett brothers fall.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves a sweet, small town, family series.
Sweetbriar has been the small town home of second chances for the Barrett siblings. It was a change to see more of a friends to lovers vibe with Heart to Heart and I really enjoyed it.
Liam followed Holly online while she was traveling for her blog and already had quite the crush on her before she moved back home. Holly is instantly attracted to Liam, but they are both dealing with some past traumas and acknowledge that they aren't in the right frame of mind for a relationship. We know what Liam is dealing with from previous books and we slowly find out what's going on with Holly. I feel like both characters showed a level of maturity in how they dealt with their issues while making space for each other.
These two connect on a deep level and their journey from friends to lovers is one of the most emotional ones I have ever read. Liam falls first, but Holly is not far behind. They find the most adorable ways to get closer (I won't spoil how, but it is one of my favorite things about this book). I would classify this as a steamy slow burn because they do not lack for chemistry while TRYING to be friends first.
The love story is the main attraction in this book for me, but I loved that there was a touch of suspense from outside sources. The ending wrapped everything up nicely without taking away from the HEA. Liam and Holly are meant to be and I was completely invested in them. Almost as much as the Barrett family was...
This is first and foremost a family series and I was so happy to see more of the Barretts. I adore everyone in that family and hope we get more books about them (especially Gram). It will be fantastic to watch the Barrett brothers fall.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves a sweet, small town, family series.
May 3, 2023
Another amazing book from Nora Everly in the wonderful town of Sweetbriar, Oregon.
Nora writes the most amazing characters that you instantly connect with, fall in love with and want them to have an HEA.
Holly and Liam are such a delightful couple. I love the fact they wanted to concentrate on their friendship first before they gave into their undeniable attraction to one another.
They both have things they are trying to work through (past events) and become one another’s biggest support system, confidants and sounding boards
So many wonderful trips in this story - found family, friends to lovers, small town and the perfect touch of suspense.
A wonderful, heartwarming read!
Nora writes the most amazing characters that you instantly connect with, fall in love with and want them to have an HEA.
Holly and Liam are such a delightful couple. I love the fact they wanted to concentrate on their friendship first before they gave into their undeniable attraction to one another.
They both have things they are trying to work through (past events) and become one another’s biggest support system, confidants and sounding boards
So many wonderful trips in this story - found family, friends to lovers, small town and the perfect touch of suspense.
A wonderful, heartwarming read!
April 12, 2025
2.75/5⭐️
So….The story wasn’t that bad in-fact it was quite cute but I was bored out of my mind. And the characters and story lines were not that boring but I just couldn’t seem to get into it. Also the writing is really choppy which makes it harder to read. All in all it wasn’t so very terrible but I would probably never pick it up again.
So….The story wasn’t that bad in-fact it was quite cute but I was bored out of my mind. And the characters and story lines were not that boring but I just couldn’t seem to get into it. Also the writing is really choppy which makes it harder to read. All in all it wasn’t so very terrible but I would probably never pick it up again.
April 25, 2023
“I thought about how she fit into my arms right now and how she’d fit herself right into my heart like she belonged there from the second we’d met.”
Oh my word, I FLOVED Heart to Heart! I wish I had the brain of a goldfish right now so I could read this book for the first time all over again. I had such a lovely time revisiting Sweetbriar, Oregon. It’s a small town with a lot of big hearts and I’m sad the series has come to an end. I love the quaint community, beautifully complex characters, spicy romance, and a bit of suspense. Nora Everly has created the ultimate book boyfriend; Liam FLUFFING Carter is part cinnamon roll, a smidgen of alpha, a dash of vulnerability, and a pinch of perfectly bossy in the bedroom. He’s charismatic, sweet, patient, compassionate, protective, and has deliciously dirty ideas. Holly is an enchanting, brilliant nurturer, playful auntie, and fierce survivor. My heart has been in limbo waiting for Liam’s HEA since he was introduced in In My Heart. When Liam and Holly first met, the air shifted and sparks flew, but neither were in the headspace for romance. Ever since a spontaneous Valentine’s Day kiss, the heat has been building between these two spectacular characters. Their heartwarming friendship serves as the foundation for a beautiful love. I adore each big-hearted, quirky, caring, marvelous member of the Barrett Family! Gram and the kids stole my heart a few times in this story, for sure…oh, and Rocky the dog too. Liam is a gentle giant of a man with big dreams to uncover and an even bigger heart. With a little nudging from his “big sister” and the loving support of his found family, he just may get more than he ever dreamed of. Liam’s my new #1 for sure. This book has tons of cuteness overload and endearing moments that will make your heart ache. I wanted to give so many hugs in this book…then climb Liam like a tree. Heart to Heart is a perfect small-town, friends-to-lovers, found family romance. The suspenseful sub-plot is captivating and a bit of a nail-biter. I laughed, I cried, sometimes it was a combo. Nora’s storytelling, dynamic characters with relatable & real struggles, heart-melting, and swoon-worthy moments made this a top read for me. By far my favorite book of Nora’s yet; from the holiday hall passes to the kitten couch snuggles, I loved every second. Heart to Heart is a must-read!
Oh my word, I FLOVED Heart to Heart! I wish I had the brain of a goldfish right now so I could read this book for the first time all over again. I had such a lovely time revisiting Sweetbriar, Oregon. It’s a small town with a lot of big hearts and I’m sad the series has come to an end. I love the quaint community, beautifully complex characters, spicy romance, and a bit of suspense. Nora Everly has created the ultimate book boyfriend; Liam FLUFFING Carter is part cinnamon roll, a smidgen of alpha, a dash of vulnerability, and a pinch of perfectly bossy in the bedroom. He’s charismatic, sweet, patient, compassionate, protective, and has deliciously dirty ideas. Holly is an enchanting, brilliant nurturer, playful auntie, and fierce survivor. My heart has been in limbo waiting for Liam’s HEA since he was introduced in In My Heart. When Liam and Holly first met, the air shifted and sparks flew, but neither were in the headspace for romance. Ever since a spontaneous Valentine’s Day kiss, the heat has been building between these two spectacular characters. Their heartwarming friendship serves as the foundation for a beautiful love. I adore each big-hearted, quirky, caring, marvelous member of the Barrett Family! Gram and the kids stole my heart a few times in this story, for sure…oh, and Rocky the dog too. Liam is a gentle giant of a man with big dreams to uncover and an even bigger heart. With a little nudging from his “big sister” and the loving support of his found family, he just may get more than he ever dreamed of. Liam’s my new #1 for sure. This book has tons of cuteness overload and endearing moments that will make your heart ache. I wanted to give so many hugs in this book…then climb Liam like a tree. Heart to Heart is a perfect small-town, friends-to-lovers, found family romance. The suspenseful sub-plot is captivating and a bit of a nail-biter. I laughed, I cried, sometimes it was a combo. Nora’s storytelling, dynamic characters with relatable & real struggles, heart-melting, and swoon-worthy moments made this a top read for me. By far my favorite book of Nora’s yet; from the holiday hall passes to the kitten couch snuggles, I loved every second. Heart to Heart is a must-read!
May 2, 2023
Liam and Holly both say they aren’t ready for any kind of serious relationship. Holly’s mother is desperate to see her paired off and all Liam can do is watch pining from the sidelines. Whether it's helping with construction on her new business and home or keeping unwanted men’s attention away, Liam is ready to step in and assist Holly any way he can.
Heart to Heart is the fourth book in The Barrett Sisters series. There is a short novella, Conversation Hearts, which acts as a prequel to this book but Heart to Heart can be read as a stand-alone. This friends to lovers romance has just the right mix of sweet and spicy.
There was no hiding the chemistry between these two. After just a tiny glimpse of Holly and Liam in Conversation Hearts, I knew their story would not disappoint. Both characters have such complicated backgrounds and baggage. Neither sees themselves as someone to settle down with long term but they find solace in each other. One of my favorite micro tropes “MCs are terrible sleepers unless they’re together” makes an appearance. While Liam and Holly have very different types of trauma, they find ways to help each other cope through their own healing journeys.
I don't think I have ever hated a villain as much as I disliked the creep in this book. He is truly detestable and I feel like this is truly a sign of the author’s excellent writing.
Nora Everly’s work is always a delight and Heart to Heart is no exception. I hope there will be more to come in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Heart to Heart is the fourth book in The Barrett Sisters series. There is a short novella, Conversation Hearts, which acts as a prequel to this book but Heart to Heart can be read as a stand-alone. This friends to lovers romance has just the right mix of sweet and spicy.
There was no hiding the chemistry between these two. After just a tiny glimpse of Holly and Liam in Conversation Hearts, I knew their story would not disappoint. Both characters have such complicated backgrounds and baggage. Neither sees themselves as someone to settle down with long term but they find solace in each other. One of my favorite micro tropes “MCs are terrible sleepers unless they’re together” makes an appearance. While Liam and Holly have very different types of trauma, they find ways to help each other cope through their own healing journeys.
I don't think I have ever hated a villain as much as I disliked the creep in this book. He is truly detestable and I feel like this is truly a sign of the author’s excellent writing.
Nora Everly’s work is always a delight and Heart to Heart is no exception. I hope there will be more to come in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 2, 2023
Sweetbriar is the kind of quaint town anyone would love to call home. It represents small town romance at its finest with meddling families, blossoming romances and cozy conversations at the corner coffee shop. Liam and Holly are a cute couple who love life, work hard and enjoy having fun. Liam is crazy about Holly but she put him firmly in the friend zone which was fine with him because any time spent with her was like being in heaven. Holly had been on his mind since he had moved to town to work for his best friend Luke’s construction company. They had served their country together and were as close as brothers. Liam loved everything about his new life and it would only be sweeter if Holly was by his side.
Holly had just recently returned home from traveling and working on the west coast. She still felt a bit untethered and had yet to find a permanent job or a place to live. She looked forward to seeing Liam’s handsome face at the coffee shop and she often wished she could tell him how she really felt about him. Being back home with her family was good for her soul and spending time with Liam made her heart flutter and mind wander to what a life with him would be like. It was hard to fight her feelings for Liam because he was just so perfect! Liam and Holly aren’t afraid to shed a tear when discussing their hopes and dreams with each other because that is what real love is all about.
Holly had just recently returned home from traveling and working on the west coast. She still felt a bit untethered and had yet to find a permanent job or a place to live. She looked forward to seeing Liam’s handsome face at the coffee shop and she often wished she could tell him how she really felt about him. Being back home with her family was good for her soul and spending time with Liam made her heart flutter and mind wander to what a life with him would be like. It was hard to fight her feelings for Liam because he was just so perfect! Liam and Holly aren’t afraid to shed a tear when discussing their hopes and dreams with each other because that is what real love is all about.
April 30, 2023
Prepare to fall in love with heart achingly flawed people! Heart to Heart follows the youngest Barrett sister, Holly and the adopted family friend, Liam in a small Pacific Northwest town called Sweetbriar. The two have a lot of separate baggage (PTSD and panic attacks) that reins in their insta love and makes it more of a slow burn. I love the characters and all their quirks…From hip Gram to Holly’s over communication word vomit to Liam’s cinnamon roll protector vibe. I also love how in each book the Barrett women can kick some serious a**! Whether it’s verbally standing up for themselves or it’s physically teaching some jerk a much deserved lesson in putting their hands on a woman. Sadly, Holly is the final sister but I am seriously looking forward to the rest of the Barrett brother’s romances! Thank you to Nora Everly for sending the ARC and giving me the opportunity to post my honest review.
May 2, 2023
Heart to Heart was a wonderful, emotional story and an exceptional addition to the Sweetbriar Hearts series. The story stirred up so many emotions and the ending.....Oh my, what a magnificent ending.
Small town romance is one of my favorite genres. This story gave me so many of the sub genres that can fill the pages of small town romance. Holly has to deal with high school vendettas that fumed for years and it gets ugly. Holly has to deal with a freaky ex-fiancee and it isn't pretty. Holly has to play nice with the guy that has held onto a crush since elementary school and it is cringe worthy. There was so much beautiful, thrilling suspenseful drama to keep me reading page after page.
It was the slow build complicated romance between Holly and Liam that had me reading past my bedtime. Their pasts hold them back. Their present is a battle of wills as they protect themselves. Their future is yet to be determined. I couldn't wait to see who gave in first. I was giddy with happiness at the family interference. I was envious of the Barrett family dynamic. They are so entertaining.
The story was entertaining. The story was such a joy to read. Who needs a television when I can read a book by Nora Everly? Heart to Heart is going into my re-read kindle (Yes, I have a kindle just for my favorites.) so I can experience the story over and over again.
Small town romance is one of my favorite genres. This story gave me so many of the sub genres that can fill the pages of small town romance. Holly has to deal with high school vendettas that fumed for years and it gets ugly. Holly has to deal with a freaky ex-fiancee and it isn't pretty. Holly has to play nice with the guy that has held onto a crush since elementary school and it is cringe worthy. There was so much beautiful, thrilling suspenseful drama to keep me reading page after page.
It was the slow build complicated romance between Holly and Liam that had me reading past my bedtime. Their pasts hold them back. Their present is a battle of wills as they protect themselves. Their future is yet to be determined. I couldn't wait to see who gave in first. I was giddy with happiness at the family interference. I was envious of the Barrett family dynamic. They are so entertaining.
The story was entertaining. The story was such a joy to read. Who needs a television when I can read a book by Nora Everly? Heart to Heart is going into my re-read kindle (Yes, I have a kindle just for my favorites.) so I can experience the story over and over again.
May 2, 2023
Whenever I read about a fictional small town like Sweetbriar, I end up wishing I could move there. The friend and found family groups in this story sound like people I wish I could meet and hang out with.
Holly and Liam are very believable as people with serious baggage who find their way to each other, despite their issues. Watching them being adults and establishing their friendship was a treat. And there are some “bad guys” in the story to bring some suspense to the table.
I felt the story was a little predictable, but I enjoyed it just the same.
Disclosure #1: I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for a prompt review.
Disclosure #2: I haven’t yet read the earlier books in the series. Not sure how I missed them! This novel is a stand alone, but I think my less than terrific memory would have benefited from having read the previous installments.
Holly and Liam are very believable as people with serious baggage who find their way to each other, despite their issues. Watching them being adults and establishing their friendship was a treat. And there are some “bad guys” in the story to bring some suspense to the table.
I felt the story was a little predictable, but I enjoyed it just the same.
Disclosure #1: I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for a prompt review.
Disclosure #2: I haven’t yet read the earlier books in the series. Not sure how I missed them! This novel is a stand alone, but I think my less than terrific memory would have benefited from having read the previous installments.
May 8, 2023
Y'all, this book. Liam is the perfect mix of cinnamon roll and SBD. His protectiveness mixed with his gentleness is the swooniest. Holly is full of kindness and empathy, but she is fierce. I adore these two together and their communication and how they're working through their issues. It's sweet, spicy, and full love, and the big family, small towns, and quirky side characters we know and love from Nora.
May 2, 2023
I have found a new favorite Author ♥️
Heart to Heart was just the story I needed to pull me out of my reading slump.
The connection between Liam and Holly was perfect, the witty banter comical and don’t get me started on Grams she might just be the best character in this entire story.
I loved Heart to Heart so much and will definitely be reading the others in this series ASAP!
Heart to Heart was just the story I needed to pull me out of my reading slump.
The connection between Liam and Holly was perfect, the witty banter comical and don’t get me started on Grams she might just be the best character in this entire story.
I loved Heart to Heart so much and will definitely be reading the others in this series ASAP!
May 3, 2023
This book should be required reading for men in how to treat a lady. Liam is the ultimate male specimen….cinnamon roll in the streets, bossy pants in the sheets. He’s so protective and swoony. I loved seeing Liam and Holly begin to come to terms with mental health while slowly falling for each other. Another fantastic story by NORA Everly.
May 3, 2023
I love the Sweetbriar books. I am so happy there are three more Barett's. I love following these characters. Liam and Holly were a wonderful pairing. I was so happy that once they finally got together, they didn't lose each other at the climax. I enjoyed the updates on the Barrett clan. It's always the best to get bonus story from other characters you invested in.
April 25, 2023
Wow what a story. I have loved the Sweetbriar stories but this one really pulls at the heart strings as you follow alike and Hollys journey. Got this as an ARC and it was a wow. Loved the story, got totally engaged and it’s funny ( gram in particular) and spicy. Perfect
May 2, 2023
-Small town romance
-Friends to lovers
-He falls first
-Cinnamon roll hero
-Slow burn
**check trigger warnings**
This is one of my favorite series! I loved Liam and Holly but Gram completely stole my heart. I highly recommend this series for anyone who loves sweet small town romances with a little added suspense. It would probably be fine to read them as standalone’s but for the full experience I would recommend reading them in order… and don’t forget the novellas that go a long with them!
-Friends to lovers
-He falls first
-Cinnamon roll hero
-Slow burn
**check trigger warnings**
This is one of my favorite series! I loved Liam and Holly but Gram completely stole my heart. I highly recommend this series for anyone who loves sweet small town romances with a little added suspense. It would probably be fine to read them as standalone’s but for the full experience I would recommend reading them in order… and don’t forget the novellas that go a long with them!
April 26, 2023
Loved loved loved Holly and Liam! I've been waiting for those two to finally get together since their first meeting and it was soooo worth the wait. The cuteness, the adorableness, the grumpiness and the sunshine, they were everything! How they thought they needed to heal before being ready for the other one when they were all each other needed to finally heal their heart <3
Loved how the Baretts still try to mess with everyone's love life and I can't wait to see the brothers get their share of meddling.
Of course, Gram Rosemary is still one of my idols, and I love her more with every page!
Loved how the Baretts still try to mess with everyone's love life and I can't wait to see the brothers get their share of meddling.
Of course, Gram Rosemary is still one of my idols, and I love her more with every page!
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July 17, 2023
First impressions of this 4th book in the author’s Barrett Sisters series is that despite the author’s best intentions it doesn’t read well as a standalone. There are just too many important secondary characters and their relationships whose back stories must have been told in the earlier books. Hell, even the two main protagonists in this book Holly and Liam were obviously introduced with a lot of their personal histories revealed and their story at least tentatively begun in an earlier book. Holly is one of the Barrett sisters who has returned to Sweetbriar Oregon after years of globetrotting blogging and photo-journaling. She’s burned out her wanderlust, had a frightening experience, and now wants to be with her large extended family. She’s working part time at her sister Violet’s coffee shop during Violet’s pregnancy, and sleeping on her younger twin brothers couch while trying to get her feet under her. Liam is working for Luke who is married to Lilly, another Barrett sister. Luke and Liam served as Army Rangers overseas until both were wounded by an I.E.D. and received medical discharges. They are brothers of the heart bonded by similar histories and shared experiences. They are both trying to help each other deal with the effects of P.T.S.D. their wounds left them with. I just kept feeling like I was only getting half the story for these people and their relationships while the rest had been revealed in earlier books in the series.
If that’s not enough I struggled with much of the story line. The handsome Liam has a thing for the gorgeous Holly. Holly has a thing for the handsome Liam. They shared a passionate kiss on the previous Valentine’s Day. But Holly truly believes and has told Liam that she’s just not in a place in her life where she is ready to begin a new relationship. Holly struggles with self-esteem issues comparing herself to whom she considers her perfectly accomplished siblings while failing to recognize her own strengths. She is constantly trying to keep Liam in the friendzone while Liam is constantly trying to respect Holly’s wishes while they both hunger for an emotional and physical relationship with each other. For me after a while Holly’s continued keeping of Liam at arm’s length while secretly lusting for him and Liam fighting his desires for her that make up much of their story began to feel over worked and redundant. Then the story gets even stranger for a contemporary romance. Liam and Holly finally acknowledge their feelings and talk about how when they eventually do have sex as if it’s a foregone conclusion, it will be epic. Yet despite both being around thirty, sexually experienced adults they act like a couple of sixteen-year-old virgins with promise rings agreeing they’re not yet ready to have sex.
Holly’s feisty grandmother Rosemary enters the picture to help get her granddaughter’s life moving in the right direction. She and Liam’s physical relationship is progressing if at a glacial speed. Until Liam’s insecurities nearly derail their happiness. The two are surrounded and supported by a large and loving family. Holly’s ex’s provide some drama as the heavies.
I didn’t find this a bad story. I just didn’t find it a great story. It had many of the components I like. A small town big family romance. Likable male and female leads. When they finally get to it plenty of steamy sex. Some suspense and drama. And of course a happy ending. Maybe if I’d read the earlier books in the series I would have liked it more?
If that’s not enough I struggled with much of the story line. The handsome Liam has a thing for the gorgeous Holly. Holly has a thing for the handsome Liam. They shared a passionate kiss on the previous Valentine’s Day. But Holly truly believes and has told Liam that she’s just not in a place in her life where she is ready to begin a new relationship. Holly struggles with self-esteem issues comparing herself to whom she considers her perfectly accomplished siblings while failing to recognize her own strengths. She is constantly trying to keep Liam in the friendzone while Liam is constantly trying to respect Holly’s wishes while they both hunger for an emotional and physical relationship with each other. For me after a while Holly’s continued keeping of Liam at arm’s length while secretly lusting for him and Liam fighting his desires for her that make up much of their story began to feel over worked and redundant. Then the story gets even stranger for a contemporary romance. Liam and Holly finally acknowledge their feelings and talk about how when they eventually do have sex as if it’s a foregone conclusion, it will be epic. Yet despite both being around thirty, sexually experienced adults they act like a couple of sixteen-year-old virgins with promise rings agreeing they’re not yet ready to have sex.
Holly’s feisty grandmother Rosemary enters the picture to help get her granddaughter’s life moving in the right direction. She and Liam’s physical relationship is progressing if at a glacial speed. Until Liam’s insecurities nearly derail their happiness. The two are surrounded and supported by a large and loving family. Holly’s ex’s provide some drama as the heavies.
I didn’t find this a bad story. I just didn’t find it a great story. It had many of the components I like. A small town big family romance. Likable male and female leads. When they finally get to it plenty of steamy sex. Some suspense and drama. And of course a happy ending. Maybe if I’d read the earlier books in the series I would have liked it more?
May 1, 2023
LOVED THIS BOOK! I have been waiting for Holly and Liam's book since I read the first book in the series a year ago. The first three books were already out when I read them a year ago, and all I wanted was more Liam! I was disappointed to find out that there wasn't a book about him yet, but I was thrilled when Ms. Everly announced this book a few months ago!
I was not disappointed! Liam is a big, protective, respectful, honorable, super hot, works-with-his-hands man. It was obvious in book 1 that he had a think for Holly when she came around. I'm amazed that she ever left with a hot piece like Liam giving her dreamy eyes all day long! He was just everything. Plus, he was all muscular and 6'6". I will say this height is kind of ridiculous. Men that tall aren't just walking around normally, but apparently, all the men in Holly's family (and the ones living in sweet briar) are also that tall or close to it. And most of the women are much much shorter (Lily is 5 ft. I have a hard time believing a son that's 6'6" can come from the same parents who made daughters that are 5'). Thankfully, Holly is 5'9", so the height difference wasn't that bad, though Liam still towered over her.
Trigger warning: Holly deals with unwanted behavior from two other men, plus the recounting of an attacker when she was hiking alone. She deals with unwanted sexual advances as well as being shoved, grabbed, and almost backhanded. If this kind of abuse triggers you, then you should not read this story.
Liam and Holly have been fighting physical attraction ever since they met. Holly experienced a physical attack while she was hiking by herself, and because of this, she's developed some PTSD that she's in a bit of denial about. But she does recognize that she's not ready for a serious relationship, and Liam is dealing with his own PTSD from being in Afghanistan, so they decide to cultivate a friendship instead. They still flirt, but they have great communication from the beginning. It was really beautiful reading about two people who respect themselves and each other enough to give each other space to really get to know one another before jumping into a physical relationship. They on page chemistry was GREAT, and when they finally decide they're ready for more, it was worth the wait!
There's four sex scenes, though you could argue that there are actually five. The first time they do it, there is another joining almost immediately after the first. They're in the same chapter, so depending on who you ask, there could be either one or two scenes there. There's also a scene before this that's just her getting off and then another two scenes later in the book that both consist of oral and handies. They are all very well written and perfectly placed within the story. There's some language but not tons.
There are a few grammer errors and misspelled words (once the word pig was used when it should be the word big). I read an ARC, so these issues might be fixed in the official release, but I don't know for sure.
Now I'm excited for the next three books about Holly's single brothers, and I'm sad I have to wait! Get to it, Ms. Everly so we can have more Sweetbriar!!! 😁
I was not disappointed! Liam is a big, protective, respectful, honorable, super hot, works-with-his-hands man. It was obvious in book 1 that he had a think for Holly when she came around. I'm amazed that she ever left with a hot piece like Liam giving her dreamy eyes all day long! He was just everything. Plus, he was all muscular and 6'6". I will say this height is kind of ridiculous. Men that tall aren't just walking around normally, but apparently, all the men in Holly's family (and the ones living in sweet briar) are also that tall or close to it. And most of the women are much much shorter (Lily is 5 ft. I have a hard time believing a son that's 6'6" can come from the same parents who made daughters that are 5'). Thankfully, Holly is 5'9", so the height difference wasn't that bad, though Liam still towered over her.
Trigger warning: Holly deals with unwanted behavior from two other men, plus the recounting of an attacker when she was hiking alone. She deals with unwanted sexual advances as well as being shoved, grabbed, and almost backhanded. If this kind of abuse triggers you, then you should not read this story.
Liam and Holly have been fighting physical attraction ever since they met. Holly experienced a physical attack while she was hiking by herself, and because of this, she's developed some PTSD that she's in a bit of denial about. But she does recognize that she's not ready for a serious relationship, and Liam is dealing with his own PTSD from being in Afghanistan, so they decide to cultivate a friendship instead. They still flirt, but they have great communication from the beginning. It was really beautiful reading about two people who respect themselves and each other enough to give each other space to really get to know one another before jumping into a physical relationship. They on page chemistry was GREAT, and when they finally decide they're ready for more, it was worth the wait!
There's four sex scenes, though you could argue that there are actually five. The first time they do it, there is another joining almost immediately after the first. They're in the same chapter, so depending on who you ask, there could be either one or two scenes there. There's also a scene before this that's just her getting off and then another two scenes later in the book that both consist of oral and handies. They are all very well written and perfectly placed within the story. There's some language but not tons.
There are a few grammer errors and misspelled words (once the word pig was used when it should be the word big). I read an ARC, so these issues might be fixed in the official release, but I don't know for sure.
Now I'm excited for the next three books about Holly's single brothers, and I'm sad I have to wait! Get to it, Ms. Everly so we can have more Sweetbriar!!! 😁
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2023
Format - E ARC
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫
Spice- 🌶 🌶
Series- Sweatbaire# 5
Troupes- Grumpy/ sunshine, can’t be together till we get our shit together, Small town, Found family
CW- Stalking, bullying, assault,
OK first things first, this is my first book in this series (I know, I know WTF right?), and while I read the prologue novella that goes with this one, I was still a tad lost on all of the familial connections and a who’s who of this cast of crazy kids! So yes it can be read as a stand alone but would be better with the others.
This book was so sweet my back teeth were aching! And while that sounds bad its not! Liam is a cinnamon roll Alpha if that’s a thing. He’s easy going until those he loves are threatened, and that goes double for Holly.
Holly has had a trauma, she’s not sure of herself anymore and has embraced the chaos that everyone says she is. From the off these two spark off of one another and its a swoony yet frustrating journey for them to finally make fireworks… and a good solid bang or two.
We get a little suspense and dose of mean girls that can admit when they’ve been assholes, and a really f*ed up childhood “friend” who doesn’t know what boundaries are to go with our sweet and salt duo. Making for a page turn wild ride!
So I had a little trouble with bits Nora’s writing style for this one. Holly’s chapters in particular were a bit chaotic for my poor dyslexic brain. I know Holly is supposed to be a bit chaotic and so her POV naturally reflect that, but it made for distracting and unfocused reading for me.
Other wise its a solid story with a good plot dynamic and lovable characters and a Baddie we love to hate!
I still love ya Nora don’t hate me! And I can’t wait for what you got for us next!
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 💫
Spice- 🌶 🌶
Series- Sweatbaire# 5
Troupes- Grumpy/ sunshine, can’t be together till we get our shit together, Small town, Found family
CW- Stalking, bullying, assault,
OK first things first, this is my first book in this series (I know, I know WTF right?), and while I read the prologue novella that goes with this one, I was still a tad lost on all of the familial connections and a who’s who of this cast of crazy kids! So yes it can be read as a stand alone but would be better with the others.
This book was so sweet my back teeth were aching! And while that sounds bad its not! Liam is a cinnamon roll Alpha if that’s a thing. He’s easy going until those he loves are threatened, and that goes double for Holly.
Holly has had a trauma, she’s not sure of herself anymore and has embraced the chaos that everyone says she is. From the off these two spark off of one another and its a swoony yet frustrating journey for them to finally make fireworks… and a good solid bang or two.
We get a little suspense and dose of mean girls that can admit when they’ve been assholes, and a really f*ed up childhood “friend” who doesn’t know what boundaries are to go with our sweet and salt duo. Making for a page turn wild ride!
So I had a little trouble with bits Nora’s writing style for this one. Holly’s chapters in particular were a bit chaotic for my poor dyslexic brain. I know Holly is supposed to be a bit chaotic and so her POV naturally reflect that, but it made for distracting and unfocused reading for me.
Other wise its a solid story with a good plot dynamic and lovable characters and a Baddie we love to hate!
I still love ya Nora don’t hate me! And I can’t wait for what you got for us next!
July 29, 2025
This was a DNF for me, the timeline didn't make sense, it seemed like her breakup was the reason she was back in town but it was actually for another reason, and her ex has 5 kids? I couldn't keep up with Holly's siblings, there were too many and half of them pregnant, they seemed nice but a bit too much. Also having her ex do work on her house and business gee what could go wrong there? I don't care if he has kids to feed, that's his problem; if it's my sibling then no way am I risking their safety for that scum, plus the drama with his wife. Jared was another issue, I don't care if you need the permits, you don't lead him on like Holly did without clearly shutting him down, again it's asking for problems. I was still willing to see it play out but when she couldn't even take one night alone at her new place that she'd been wanting to have and didn't go to Liam but a brother and said nothing to Liam, after they clearly established they were a thing and he was always going to be there for her and it led to a whole blow up, I was done. Holly can't make smart decisions if her life depended on it, we were just told that she was good at all these herbal things but at 54% had yet to see her do anything with it to start making her products or using the cream to help with Liam's scars that she mentioned she would do. This was a crash and burn for me on so many levels, she's supposedly so scared after her incident yet does absolutely nothing to protect herself, always giving excuses as to why she can't.
April 27, 2023
A visit to Sweetbriar, Oregon is always such a joy and Heart to Heart was no exception! If you love small town novels with a lot of heart, sweetness and spice - with a little suspense on the side - then Nora Everly’s books are the ones for you. And this one is one of her best!
Holly has been traveling the world for years but now she is back in Oregon and plans to stay. Something scared her on her last trip and she is looking forward to finding her calm again in Sweetbriar. Liam was invited to Sweetbriar by his best friend, Luke, who happens to be married to Holly’s sister Lily – both Luke and Liam have suffered from PTSD after being injured overseas but now they are working together in construction and they are also getting help from Luke’s grandfather who has worked with Army vets for a long time. What Holly and Liam have in common – in addition to having a (secret) crush on each other – is the feeling that they are too broken to be worth of a happily-ever-after with anyone. But what they decide to do is to spend time together and maybe help the other heal in the process. Their evolving friendship and affection for one another was adorable and heartwarming to see and the side characters – from Holly’s grandmother Rosemary to Cheddar the kitten – added a lot of fun to the story. And the ending – well that was just the perfect cherry on top!
Thank you so much Nora for the ARC!
Holly has been traveling the world for years but now she is back in Oregon and plans to stay. Something scared her on her last trip and she is looking forward to finding her calm again in Sweetbriar. Liam was invited to Sweetbriar by his best friend, Luke, who happens to be married to Holly’s sister Lily – both Luke and Liam have suffered from PTSD after being injured overseas but now they are working together in construction and they are also getting help from Luke’s grandfather who has worked with Army vets for a long time. What Holly and Liam have in common – in addition to having a (secret) crush on each other – is the feeling that they are too broken to be worth of a happily-ever-after with anyone. But what they decide to do is to spend time together and maybe help the other heal in the process. Their evolving friendship and affection for one another was adorable and heartwarming to see and the side characters – from Holly’s grandmother Rosemary to Cheddar the kitten – added a lot of fun to the story. And the ending – well that was just the perfect cherry on top!
Thank you so much Nora for the ARC!
May 2, 2023
In this latest instalment of Nora Everly’s Sweetbriar series, we have the pleasure of unravelling how Holly and Liam find their way to each other. I was both keen and tentative to dig into their story, as my favourite characters are most frequently the quiet, broody ones percolating in the background and theirs was particularly intriguing. I needn’t have been concerned because once again, Nora’s singular storytelling ability; her capacity to convey the complexity of each of her characters with sensitivity and depth had me slowing down and rereading passages for the sheer enjoyment of her prose.
The prize for new favourite character in Sweetbriar however (and I’m sure Holly would agree) goes to Gram! What a delightful ball-buster and all-round shero.
‘Heart to Heart’ at its root is a story about healing and the extraordinary capacity of human beings to find a way back to themselves from the darkest depths, with love and support from chosen family and in doing so, being able to recognise the ones they’re meant to be with. It is also filled with humour, heart and some delicious sexy times! I know I will be revisiting this story again and again.
The prize for new favourite character in Sweetbriar however (and I’m sure Holly would agree) goes to Gram! What a delightful ball-buster and all-round shero.
‘Heart to Heart’ at its root is a story about healing and the extraordinary capacity of human beings to find a way back to themselves from the darkest depths, with love and support from chosen family and in doing so, being able to recognise the ones they’re meant to be with. It is also filled with humour, heart and some delicious sexy times! I know I will be revisiting this story again and again.
May 5, 2023
Oh how I love Sweetbriar! The Barrett family is probably my favorite fictional small town family and I was so excited to read Holly and Liam's story after getting a sneak peak at them in Conversation Hearts. Holly is the free spirit of the Barrett family. After spending years traveling she is determined to finally put down roots and stay home. She has been attracted to Liam Carter since she met him but she is determined to get her life in order before entering another relationship. Liam has his own issues as well. He has been suffering from severe PTSD since leaving the service and has been searching for his place in the world. He is also attracted to Holly but doesn't feel that he would be good for her. Well the heart wants what the heart wants so these two need to work their way forward to the HEA that they both want and deserve. Heart to Heart was told from dual POV and was sweet but with plenty of heat!
February 18, 2024
Before reading make sure to read the novella called "Conversation Hearts" #3.5 in the series.
Holly and Liam are finally in a place where they are ready to heal from their trauma. At first it's important to heal those areas independently and as only friends. Slowly and wisely they begin to build something permanent together despite all the noise happening both outside and in their heads.
Dual POV, soft romantic suspense, love at first sight, sex scenes: yes.
Please read the trigger warnings** which could be a potential trigger.
Liam is a big, damaged softy who falls first. Holly is his sunshine trying desperately to find her purpose. They are a slow burn that is really sweet. The suspense in this one is low and I felt like the resolution could have been handled differently. Nice HEA and Epilogue.
Holly and Liam are finally in a place where they are ready to heal from their trauma. At first it's important to heal those areas independently and as only friends. Slowly and wisely they begin to build something permanent together despite all the noise happening both outside and in their heads.
Dual POV, soft romantic suspense, love at first sight, sex scenes: yes.
Please read the trigger warnings** which could be a potential trigger.
Liam is a big, damaged softy who falls first. Holly is his sunshine trying desperately to find her purpose. They are a slow burn that is really sweet. The suspense in this one is low and I felt like the resolution could have been handled differently. Nice HEA and Epilogue.
May 1, 2023
4.25 ⭐️ Due out on Tuesday!!!!
Liam and Holly have all the chemistry it’s just not the right time for either of them to be in a relationship. Like many adults, they’ve got their own baggage to work through but sometimes the universe has other plans.
I love that both Holly and Liam bring out the best in each other. Their love and patience with the other’s struggles is what made my heart swoon for these two!
The bonus is the small town of Sweetbriar, the family dynamics, and the wonderful conversations surrounding mental health.
Please do be aware that this romance does reference assault and ongoing PTSD.
Nora Everly always delivers a spicy, romantic, and totally swoon-worthy romance and Heart to Heart is no different!
Liam and Holly have all the chemistry it’s just not the right time for either of them to be in a relationship. Like many adults, they’ve got their own baggage to work through but sometimes the universe has other plans.
I love that both Holly and Liam bring out the best in each other. Their love and patience with the other’s struggles is what made my heart swoon for these two!
The bonus is the small town of Sweetbriar, the family dynamics, and the wonderful conversations surrounding mental health.
Please do be aware that this romance does reference assault and ongoing PTSD.
Nora Everly always delivers a spicy, romantic, and totally swoon-worthy romance and Heart to Heart is no different!
May 2, 2023
This is a lovely small town romance of Holly and Liam. Both have to deal with their own personal issues because they enter a relationship they don’t want to mess up. The perfect recipe for friends to lovers.
The premise is good and I wanted to love this book. However I just did not click with the characters. Sometimes the story felt a little too drawn out and sometimes it just resolved itself too abruptly.
This is the first book I have read in this series but I think a character family chart would be very useful bc if so many siblings and kids.
I will say that I can’t wait for the stories of Asher, Levi and Jude!!
The premise is good and I wanted to love this book. However I just did not click with the characters. Sometimes the story felt a little too drawn out and sometimes it just resolved itself too abruptly.
This is the first book I have read in this series but I think a character family chart would be very useful bc if so many siblings and kids.
I will say that I can’t wait for the stories of Asher, Levi and Jude!!
May 15, 2023
A wonderful small town love story!
Liam and Holly’s story continues from Conversation Hearts, a short prequel to this book. A slow burn turns into an explosion between them. He seems to be the perfect man; a protective, defending those he loves, protecting his non-blood family, and just an around good guy. She is kind and sweet unless you irritate her, and she can defend herself. Wow, these two characters are meant for each other. This book addresses mental health issues that they both experience. I loved all the characters and family that this small town romance brought. This stary is a great addition to this series.
Liam and Holly’s story continues from Conversation Hearts, a short prequel to this book. A slow burn turns into an explosion between them. He seems to be the perfect man; a protective, defending those he loves, protecting his non-blood family, and just an around good guy. She is kind and sweet unless you irritate her, and she can defend herself. Wow, these two characters are meant for each other. This book addresses mental health issues that they both experience. I loved all the characters and family that this small town romance brought. This stary is a great addition to this series.
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