Hero Ever After

Gibson Hollow #1

by Kait Nolan

I never meant to be anyone’s heroine.

Not when I became the acting mayor of my hometown after the flood. Not when I kept my law practice afloat out of a booth in my grandmother’s diner. And definitely not when my secret romantasy novels went viral.

Nobody in Gibson Hollow knows I’m the author behind the pen name. And nobody was supposed to kiss me at that book convention—least of all my brother’s best friend, cosplaying the hero he doesn’t know I modeled after him.

Now Ramsey Shaw is back in town. Volunteering. Smiling at me like I’m not on the verge of shattering. Like he remembers the kiss. Like he sees the truth.

I’ve spent my whole life being strong. Quiet. In control. But for the first time, I don’t want to be any of those things.

I just want to be his.

In a town held together by hope and heart, it’s the people who show up that make it shine.

Genres: Romance, Sports, Contemporary, Small Town Romance, Family, Fiction

357 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 22, 2025

About the author

Kait Nolan is a RITA® Award-winning Mississippi author who calls everyone sugar, honey, or darlin', and can wield a 'Bless your heart' like a Snuggie or a saber, depending on requirements. She believes in love, laughter, and that tacos are the world's most perfect food. When she's not writing, reading, working the evil day job, or wrangling family (both the two-legged and the four-), you can find her obsessively watching The Great British Bake Off.

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Reviews

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has so much heart that will make you want to jump in the book and be a part of it! This is probably closer to my heart as it took place in the North Carolina mountains after a hurricane tore it apart. I live in Raleigh and felt all the pain and help that we all went through so far away trying to help last year. Alia was the oldest child (and a twin of Bodie) who ended taking over as interim mayor after her father was hurt helping others. I was so awed by her as she took over handling so many problems that I don’t think I could have been that person. She was also an author that only two people knew about. I can understand why Alia didn’t want paparazzi after her. Alia had been in love with her brother Bodie’s best friend Ramsey since college, but had never let on. You will love what Ramsey did to help Alia out at a book round table that her best friend set her up for without her knowledge. I loved Ramsey! He was such a gentleman (also a football player), and tried to always be there for Alia once he saw all she had been going through. This town was so wonderful about working together to help each other. There are also some colorful characters that you can’t help but love. I have to say I had some happy tears toward the end of the book, so keep Kleenex near! I loved the book and strongly courage you to read it.

[Erin Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Star Review Hero Ever After (Gibson Hollow #1) by Kait Nolan

I was so excited when I heard that she had a new series releasing and if this book is anything to go by, then she is off to a great start.

From the first paragraph Kait Nolan drew me in and held me captive with this entertaining and engaging story.

This is acting Mayor and lawyer Alia Gibson and footballer Ramsey Shaw’s story set in small town Gibson Hollow. Not only is Alia busy with her public life but she is also a closet romance writer which adds an additional layer to the story.

Gibson Hollow is full of quirky characters and I love the diversity that the author explores.

This was a well written story with characters that you can easily relate too and whose story I quickly became invested in.

I cannot wait to see what Ms. Nolan has in store for this series.

[Nickole · Rating 5 out of 5]

rcvd an advanced reader copy from the author for giving my review voluntarily. OMG... this is hands down my FAV Kait Nolan book!!! it had be LOL and crying like a baby! We briefly met Alia and Ramsey in previous books. fast forward 10 years, Ramsey went pro with football and Alia is a lawyer and acting town mayor. Alia's home town was devastated by a natural disaster and when her mayoral father is injured she jumps in to help. what everyone doesn't realize is that its taking a toll on her. She has also been keeping a secret for 10 years (except from her BFF Blair), she is a successful author under a pen name. Blair manages to convince her to go to an author panel bc no one and i mean no one knows anything about the author. Ramsey is off for the season and he had a secret that no one knows. he is going to a Con dressed as his fav character from his fav books. he will be in disguise and no one will know who he is. Alia is doing her best at the author event but her nerves get the better of her and thr next thing she knows shes getting rescued...by her main character! Ramsey can't believe his eyes...there is smtg about the author that seems familiar. Ramsey decides to head to see his old bff Bodie and help the town out and Alia doesn't know what to do with her college crush in town. is this a disaster waiting to happen or will the truth be revealed? the book has drama, undisclosed truths and drag queens that bring the sparkle. can't give away too much....u just have to read it!!

[Regina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am head over heels in love with Gibson Hollow!

Thank you, Kait, for giving us this new story universe to get lost in and find tons of new friends. And so what if they are imaginary? As Ramsey/“Soren” has proven in quite memorable fashion, sometimes the heroes from our stories do indeed come to life in reality. ;)

Alia and Ramsey are a wonderful match and I loved getting to know them better after having gotten a first glimpse in the prequel novella “Hero After Midnight.” Are these two perfect? Not at all. But are they perfect for each other? Absolutely!

I adore these stories, they have so much heart and industrial-strength (found) family ties. And for the record: The Sasspatch Society is an absolute delight!

[Taryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was such a treat to spend time in a new location outside of Wishful! Even though the setting was different, it still carried Kait Nolan’s signature touch—richly drawn characters, heartfelt relationships, and a story that pulls you in from the first page. I loved seeing how she brought a whole new place to life while still delivering the kind of depth and emotional resonance I’ve come to expect from her books.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Universal



Ever since the flood that devastated Gibson Hollow, Alia has taken over the duties of keeping the town together, in place of her father, the town's mayor. She may seem like the most competent person to take over for him (and she is), but all the hours she's putting in have left her little (no) time to take care of herself. She has no choice, though, to help everyone in this town she loves. Because if she doesn't do it, who will, even if every minute pushes her closer to a complete breakdown.



Back when Ramsey and Alia had their moment, he was young and saw no way to chase his football dream AND be with his best friend's sister. So they stayed a secret, he left, and they've never since come close to what they had before. What Alia doesn't know, though, is that he's never lost track of her, never stopped thinking of what could have been. Now he has his chance to see her up close and in person when he comes back home for the offseason. Seeing how much she has on her shoulders and how she's not taking the time to care for herself, he takes it upon himself to do it for her. He'll be her rock, this just may be their time, if she lets him in.



Alia freaking rocks. She's the strongest heroine I think I've read in a possibly forever. She's the center, the backbone, the captain of her family and her entire town. I shed more than a few tears, though, that she took all that on and no one until Ramsey came home, ever thought to ask if she was OK, if it was too much. Thank God Ramsey's perceptive, loving eye lasered in on her and forced everyone to look deeper. Speaking of Ramsey, this #SwoonyMcBroadsword is the sweetest, definitely the swooniest, hero Kait's ever written. I love these two and their heartfelt love story. Now I'm impatiently awaiting Bodie's (Alia's brother/Ramsey's best friend) story next, Hero, Unexpected.



ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.

Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

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[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG – I loved Alia and Ramsey’s love story in Hero Ever After by Kait Nolan, book one in the Gibson Hollow series; a heartwarming, emotional, romantic, second-chance romance. A story that will grab your heart and emotions from page one to the last, and continues on through the additional epilogue.


Gibson Hollow is trying, as best they can, to recover from a catastrophic flood that devastated the town. Alia Gibson, a lawyer by profession and secretly a fantasy romance writer, cared for her many siblings after her mother’s death. Her father suffered a severe accident during the rebuilding and now is away in Nashville hospitalized for an extended period of time; so now she is caring for the town. This job is a huge weight for her to carry as she takes on every job herself when asked by her family and the residents of this town. The weight on her shoulders is heavy. If that wasn’t enough, her best friend, Blair, signed her up to be part of a panel at a fantasy romance convention.

Ramsey Shaw, a famous football player, has been in love with his best friend’s sister Alia for over a decade. These two shared two smoldering kisses, each in a situation where they were unsure the other was aware; because of wearing masks and disguises. After talking with his best friend Bodie, police chief and Alia’s twin, Ramsey comes to Gibson Hollow for the off season to help with the devastation. He recognizes the weight on Alia that no one else sees. Ramsey becomes Alia’s rock and soft place to land. He understands her, supports her, and makes sure that she’s being taken care of.

This was heartwarming, touching, romantic, and provided all the feels. Ramsey saw Alia. He understood her, supported her, loved her, and let her be her. Other than Blair and Uncle Dee, he provided her with what she needed. Besides the community, family and construction, we have pocket snacks, biscuits, office dragons, the Sasspatch Society, social media frenzy, and a relationship that is swoon-worthy. This is a story about family, not only the one you’re born into, but also the one formed by those who love you and care for you. I need a Grump wrangler and would really love an Office dragon. I can’t wait to return to Gibson Hollow and figure out what is going on with Bodie.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
#kaitnolan # HeroEverAfter #smalltown #GibsonHollow #mustread #needtoreaditnow #wildfiremarketingsolutions


Wish I could give more than 5 stars!!

[Ann-Maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hero Ever After (Gibson Hollow #1)
by Kait Nolan

I was genuinely thrilled to hear about the release of Kait Nolan's new series, and if this book is any indication, she has launched it with remarkable success. Alia and Ramsey have harboured feelings for each other for years, though they have both kept those feelings buried deep within themselves.

Alia Gibson is not only a dedicated attorney but also the eldest sibling in the close-knit Gibson family. Following a devastating hurricane that severely injured her father and wreaked havoc on the small town of Gibson Hollow, Alia stepped up to take on the responsibilities of the town's Mayor. The town, named after her family, is a place where everyone knows each other, and community spirit is strong. Alongside her public duties, Alia has a hidden passion: she is an accomplished author, having penned several best-selling novels that have captivated readers far and wide.

Ramsey Shaw, a talented player for the Charleston Sentinels, has been a regular presence in Alia’s life, being one of her twin brother’s closest friends since childhood. As the football season comes to a close, Ramsey decides to return to Gibson Hollow to assist with the post-hurricane cleanup efforts. As events unfold, it becomes increasingly clear that his return to the community is motivated not just by a desire to lend a helping hand, but also by a profound longing to reconnect with Alia. He observes that she is overwhelmed by the considerable weight of her responsibilities—juggling the demands of her role as Mayor. while forgetting about her secret life as the mysterious author of the novels that have captivated him and others. He can sense her struggle, as the pressures of leadership affect personal identity, begin to take a toll, leaving her feeling isolated in her multifaceted roles.

This captivating story explores rich themes of community, love, and the bonds of family—both the ones we are born into and those we choose along the way. The diverse cast of characters is beautifully crafted, and it's impossible not to fall in love with each of them as they navigate the challenges and joys of life in Gibson Hollow.

[SOS · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was enthralled by this book from the first chapter. It’s clever, fun, and heartwarming. No surprise, for Kait Nolan is a skilled and entertaining writer. This book, though, took things another step towards charming and engaging. I can’t wait to see what comes next in this series.

This is the first full book in the Gibson Hollow series. A massive flood hit Gibson Hollow, the result of a hurricane. Much damage was done, including to Alia Gibson’s father, the town’s mayor. Seriously injured during rescue work, he was rushed to Nashville for treatment. That left Alia, an attorney and the oldest of the Gibson siblings, to step in and take over. She’s been dealing with all the bureaucracy and local needs from a booth of her grandmother’s diner. It’s a job that doesn’t allow her even a moment to herself, but she’s determined to do what’s right for the people of Gibson Hollow.

Ramsey Shaw plays for the Charleston Sentinels. He’s good at what he does. The season’s come to an end, and Ramsey decides that he’s going to head to see his best friend, the police chief of Gibson Hollow, and lend a hand with the clean-up and repair. But first, he attends a fantasy romance convention, hoping for a chance to see his favorite author speak on a panel. There’s a secret waiting for him there, and he’ll not hesitate to act as a hero.

I loved this book. Everything about it was entertaining and fresh. The format was slightly different than those used in earlier books by Nolan, but it worked very well. The strongest force in her books is always the characters, and it’s not different in this book. The large cast is made up of different personalities, and they all work. The plot unfolds with believable twists and turns, but you always know that there will be a happy ending. A strong southern sensibility threads through the book, adding a dose of character to the tale. All in all, this book will have you smiling and laughing, as well as oohing and ahhing.

I highly recommend this book.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. I thank her for her generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.

[Booklover Judy Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

#BrothersBestFriend #FriendsToLovers #SecondChance #SmallTown #FamilySeries #ARC
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book. Written in first person from an alternating dual POV, this first book of a new series can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA.
To say that I loved this book would be a massive understatement. I have read several books by this author, and this is my favorite book of hers ever. Alia is strong, compassionate, creative, and fierce. Ramsey is EVERYTHING. He is swoony, committed, loyal, insightful, kind, and intimidating when he needs to be. He sees Alia and doesn't hesitate to take care of her even if it means standing up for her where no one else has. I adored the heat between them, but even more I loved their connection with each other. It was soft, warm, and electric all at once. I appreciated that they didn’t have a third act break up. They had spent so much time apart in the ten years since college that they needed to be together more than anything.
I also loved the Gibson family and the small town of Gibson Hollow. The author set this series in the beautiful little town in the mountains of North Carolina. Drawing upon recent floods that ravaged that area, the Hollow is rebuilding after the devastation of a massive flood. The people of the town come together with solidarity and quiet strength to recover their town from the damage. The cast of secondary characters are truly special. Uncle Dee and the Sasspatch Society are a group of people I want to hang with. Alia's best friend, Blair, is a fierce, glittery, human and the ride or di3 friend everyone should have. The author has created a world full of inclusiveness, respect, and love on so many levels it is unmatched. It is a world I would hope that we could someday achieve. It is a world I longed to stay in.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my, whenever I think this talented author can’t possibly write a book even more wonderful than the last one, she comes out with this book. It’s a story that will grab your heart and emotions from the first page to the last, and continues on through the additional epilogue.
Gibson Hollow has been devastated and practically whipped out from a recent flood. Alia Gibson, a lawyer by profession and secretly a fantasy romance writer, finds herself as the appointed mayor. Her father suffered a severe accident during the rebuilding and now is away in Nashville hospitalized for an extended period of time. Being a Gibson and a very efficient individual, Alia is appointed acting mayor. A job that has her “on” 24/7 and has drained her. To top it off , her best friend signs her up to be part of a panel at a fantasy romance convention.
Ramsey Shaw, a well respected and much loved football player, has been in love with his best friend’s sister Alia for over a decade. But an inadvertent warning from his friend and at that time, the start of his career, he did not pursue her.
But all that seems to change when fate brings them back in the most unexpected way.
Ramsey becomes Alia’s rock and soft place to land. He “gets her”. supports her and makes sure that she’s being take care of.
This is a story about family, not only the one you’re born into, but also the one formed by those who love you and care for you.
Lastly, this reader loved the Sasspatch Society queens. Kudos to the author for showing us that we are all special and important humans in a society that not always is willing to see just that.
Can’t wait for go back to Gibson Hollow .
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not sure where to start with my thoughts about this book, as there are many. So I will start with this: Ms. Nolan is one of our favorite authors, and I adore and love her books. If honest, I'm probably 80 percent through her catalogue already, but Hero Ever After has been her best work yet. If I could give this story's plot more than 5 stars, I would.

The story's plot was heartfelt, emotional, engaging, filled with family and friends, hard times, and full of wonderful characters that Sasspatch Society had me laughing throughout the entire book. They were god sent and busy bodies with the best intentions, and the dialogue between them caused belly laughter.

There wasn't a character we did not fall in love with, Aila, our favorite, a steadfast and lovable woman with a heart of gold. We resonated with her character a lot, as I had been in a very similar situation as she was growing up. We loved that Ramsey saw her where others did not. The weight of it all she carried. She may have been the Pillar of the family, but that does not mean she is immune to cracking.

From the moment we started turning the pages, we were hooked, and we loved everything about the story, how realistic it felt, a big, loving family, a community that takes care of its own. The book made you laugh as well as cry; it takes you through a range of emotions just like its characters. The were several parts that we found ourselves re-reading all over again and laughing out loud once more.

The chemistry the honesty between Ramsey and Aila was heartfelt and swoony. Ramsey was a sweetheart of a man, caring, loving, and fun, and he, too, had a heart of gold. The cast of characters could not be more perfect for this story. We loved them all, looking forward to Aila's brothers' stories to come.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story with heart, warmth, angst, and sass.

The first book in the new Gibson Hollow series delivers heart, warmth, and angst. Alia Gibson, the oldest of eight siblings, is juggling the heavy responsibility of being interim mayor after a devastating flood, while secretly being a best-selling fantasy romance author. When her best friend talks her into attending a romance convention, Alia ends up being rescued by the last person she expected—her lifelong crush, Ramsey Shaw (and her brother's best friend and teammate). Dressed as the hero from her books, Ramsey swoops in like the knight he is and saves her from a distressing and embarrassing situation.

Ramsey chose an NFL career over pursuing a relationship with Alia, but she has always been in his heart. He decides to go to Gibson Hollow to help the town's recovery efforts. This story is equal parts heartbreaking and heartwarming as they navigate their longing, second chances, and journey towards true love.

Kait Nolan kicked off this series in the best way. I was hooked from page one and completely fell in love with Gibson Hollow and its people. Nolan has such a gift for creating small-town settings full of life, warmth, and characters you want to cheer for. Alia and Ramsey’s connection leaps off the page, and I was smiling, swooning, and feeling every ounce of their angst. I cannot wait to see what comes next in Gibson Hollow!

[Elaine A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ramsey decides to attend a book conference where the author of some books he likes is going to be. Alia is in disguise as she doesn’t want to be fawned over. As she is being questioned, Ramsey who is dressed as one of the characters in her book notices that she is about to have a melt down from the questions she is being pounded with. So he rescues her and carries her away from the crowd. Alia heads home to pick up her job as mayor and lawyer for the town and Ramsey heads back to his home to decide what is going to do in the off season of pro football. Ramsey ends up in Gibson Hollow when his friend and Alia’s brother, invites him to help rebuild the town that was heavily damaged in a hurricane. Ramsey and Alia have known each other since their college years, but haven’t seen each other in a few years because of Ramsey’s football career. Now they are suddenly working together. Can they rekindle the relationship they didn’t realize they had all those years ago? Can Ramsey help Alia work through how to handle all the balls she balances as mayor and lawyer? I loved the work these two did and how hard Ramsey worked to help Alia and support her. And that the town works hard to recover from the hurricane even when there is not a lot of resources out there for them.
I received a copy of the book in exchange for the review

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart is completely full after reading the first book in the Gibson Hollow series. I have read every book by Kait Nolan and although I love them and recommend them to friends and family, Hero Ever After is HANDS DOWN my very favorite book!!
Alia and Ramsey are completely enthralling characters that I loved from the get-go. This woman's strength is superhuman, I don't understand how she has not cracked under the strain of trying bringing a whole town back to life. Not to mention, her family's 15 plus years of grief. Ramsey is that hero that every romance reader swoons over. He's the total package...sweet, sexy, intuitive, in touch with his feelings and fine as heck! Their connection is magical.
But the thing that moved this book from great to my favorite ever (I said that already, right) is the cast of secondary characters...who are by no means secondary in my heart! From take charge bestie, Blair to Uncle Dee and the sparkle, glitter and scheming of the Sasspatch Society to Grandma Elsie and the rest of Alia's large, crazy family...every member added light, laughter and fun to the story. This was no cookie cutter town; it was a cross section of small town anywhere, where people were accepted and embraced for their differences. I cannot wait to to back to visit
I wish I could make this a 100 star review, but I'll have to settle for a very enthusiastic 5 star instead!!

[Urvashi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alia never meant to be anyone’s heroine, but she is the go to person for everything. She stepped up to help raise her siblings as a teenager and now as an adult, she is the acting Mayor for her hometown after it was almost washed away after a flood. She is a lawyer by profession, and a successful secret author of romantasy novels.
As the acting mayor, trying to rebuild her town, her plate is overflowing and she has not been able to write at all. To appease her fans, her best friend signs her up to be part of a panel at a fantasy romance convention.
When the questions start overwhelming her, she is rescued by Ramsey, who is cosplaying the hero from her first book.
Alia and Ramsey have been in love with each other since years, unaware of the other’s feelings. But it slowly starts changing, when Ramsey comes to Gibson Hollow, and slowly and quietly starts easing her burden, taking care of her.
This was a wonderful read about community, family - not just the one you are born into but also the one you choose, and friends. Alia and Ramsey were perfect for each other. I loved how supportive he was, giving Alia space and time when she needed it.

[Kimberly Stamiti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Squee!! "Dee"lightful!

Loved, loved, loved this book!
So much going on, including cosplay, masquerades, secret romance (and secret pen name), incognito kisses, slow burn, long time mutual crush, best friend's sister/brother's best friend tropes...
Hunky, handsome, helpful hero, pro football star, Ramsey, has been in love (forever!) with Alia, the super capable, always dependable, highly organized, about to burn out, lawyer/writer/acting mayor/head of the huge, loud, demanding loving family of Gibsons...

Did I cover it all in a couple of big, long, image filled run on sentences??? Not even close!

Hero Ever After, Kait Nolan's Gibson Hollow Book One (but you've got to read the novella too!), brings us a steamy love story in a whole new (decimated by flooding!) North Carolina setting, full of Southern charm, fun, quirky, colorful "sass"y side characters (including drag queens, meddling matchmakers, an adorable puppy and the best best friend in the history of best friends), with a heaping helping of family, friends, resilience and soooo much love!

Do you think I liked this book???? Can't wait for book two!

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it!
Okay, can we just talk about how much I loved this book?
Let’s start with Alia. She’s that strong, capable woman who holds everything together—her dad and brothers, after losing their mom, her whole town after almost storm wipes it out, all while continuing to practice law. She’s tough, but she’s starting to internal collapse under weight of everything she’s carrying.
Then comes Ramsey. He is one of her brother’s best friends, ripped, respects her strength, and has secretly wanted her for the last 10 years!!! He doesn’t just admire Alia’s strength, he sees the side of her that needs support, too. That part really melted me, because sometimes even the strongest people need someone to lean on.
Add in Biscuit, the cute little dog they rescue, a secretly successful author twist (which I loved), and a great cast of family and friends, and this book hit all the right notes for me. It was cozy, heartwarming, and just the right mix of romance and community vibes.
Basically, if you’re into small-town romances with a strong heroine, a hero who’s got her back, and a dog who steals the show, you need to read this one.

[Lynne Simons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alia and Ramsey were so in love that everybody around them could see it. Both believed the other did not feel the same way. I especially enjoyed Alia’s growth as a character. The fact that in the beginning she was so focused on everybody else that she forgot to look after herself and eventually realised that she was just as important. Ramsey taking care of her and recognising her gave her the strength to put her oxygen mask on first. Ramsey was more observant when it came to Alia and what she was doing because he was always watching her, not just expecting her to be okay. He also realised that sometimes being the hero meant that he had to give her space and time. Their love was a slow burn but very deep and they found their HEA. Alia was a hero in her own right she just needed her own hero to take care of her.
I have found my new favourite small town in Gibson Hollow and the supporting cast. Of course the Sasspatch Society are the best and cannot wait to see what they do next.
This was a great first book of a new series. Lots of new characters whose stories you want to learn more about and see them get their HEA as well.

[Stephanie Corbett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fabulous start to a new series set in a small town in the South (Gibson Hollow) which is full of heart, community, tolerance, and support... basically I want to move there. This may be my favourite Kait Nolan book so far. It was a great story, with College crushes getting a second chance at romance, but it was also full of laughter and tears (of joy... I literally cried during the whole final chapter).

Alia Gibson and Ramsey Shaw met at College (Ramsey is also Alia's twin brothers' best friend), they both held (un)requited crushes and never told the other. They have the opportunity again 10 years later, and this time they won't let the moment pass them by.

Not only is the town wonderful, but also the plethora of fantastic characters - plenty more siblings so lots of great stories to come, a wonderful ride-or-die best friend, as well as a grandma we all want to be adopted by and the FAB-U-LOUS Uncle Dee (Devine) & all of the sassy members of the Sassypatch Brigade.

This is a wonderful romance, with chemistry and storyline a plenty - not to be missed!! I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Lisa Petty (Book Bangers Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a tragic flood hits Gibson Hollow and Alia becomes the acting mayor in place of her dad, she does everything she can to revive the town. She runs her business out of her grandma's restaurant, but one thing becomes very clear: everyone goes to her for help, and she starts to drown. What the town doesn't know is that she is a secret author, and when her best friend signs her up for a panel, well, things are about to change. A knight in shining armor is there to save her. However, this knight turns out to be someone she knows—someone who has had a part of her heart, and someone who destroyed her. Ramsey Shaw is off for the season and already has plans to attend an author panel to see his favorite author, but he gets the shock of a lifetime. Now his plans have changed, and he's heading to Gibson Hollow, not only to see his best friend Brodie, who happens to be Alia's twin, but also to lend a helping hand. What he finds, though, is chaos—and he's just the man to fix it. But these two have a history that might destroy everything they've worked their entire lives for. Can they survive it?

[Ulli Zaiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in the new "Gibson Hollow" series by Kait Nolan. While it is not essential you might like to read the Prequel "Hero after Midnight" which is free on Amazon (at least right now) to get the full backstory of Alia and Ramsey.
I loved reading this book and read it in one day. It has wonderful main characters, a believable storyline and the most entertaining supporting characters (I would love to meet the Sasspatch Society). I felt for Alia from the start, the way she was trying to hold everything together in the town after the flood and the toll it took on her was palpable. And Ramsey is a great MMC: a good-looking football player who reads fantasy romance, does cosplay and helps wherever he can - really a perfect book-boyfriend! The story had me feel everything, I was laughing at times and almost crying at others. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and with the glimpse to the next book at the end I am already looking forward to November when Bodie's book will be published.
I received an ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so excited about this new series by Kait Nolan! I have never read anything by her that I haven't loved.

This book has that hero that you just can't stop wanting for your own. Ramsey is a professional football player, so he's absurdly tall and built, but his heart is so mushy when it comes to Alia. He protects her, carries snacks in his pockets (I didn't say pants) for her, makes sure she is comfy and runs interference for her when people are overwhelming her. If I didn't already have one of those guys, I'd be asking where I can sign up!

Alia has been keeping her town going after it was devastated by a flood. Everyone brings their problems to her as acting mayor. She's hanging on by a thread so that she doesn't let anyone down, but when Ramsey pops up in town to help, things start to change.

Then there's the almost side story of her being a successful author, but no one know but her uncle and best friend. That scene with Ramsey at the author panel and his leather pants? Incredible!

Thanks to Wildfire Marketing Solutions for the copy. All thoughts are my own.

[Nathathida Atirekasâra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gosh, this book is so perfect in every way!

The book themes such as a small town and a big family including their lovely friends brought me back to Kait Nolan's Wishful series which I didn't know I miss it until I read this book. But I also thought Nolan did her best to present "Gibson Harrow" in different ways.

The story of Alia and Ramsey that Nolan created is so heartwarming and swooning with Aria's and Ramsey's unrequited love for each other, Ramsey's swooning hero personality, and Alia's close-knit family members and friends. But after I dived deeper into their love story, my feeling shifted... I cried, cried, and cried for Aria because she sacrificed so much. I also cried through the end of the book but because I was so glad with Aria. My feeling while I was reading through this book is like playing a roller-coaster but at the end, it was satisfying.

Can't wait for the next book of this series which I sensed something about friends turning to be enemies and will be more...

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gibson Hollow was almost wiped out by flooding waters and Alia started to act as Deputy Mayor after her father's accident when helping other people. She's overworked, has no free time for herself, has given her flat to a family who had lost everything and now is living with her uncle. Her law office is now a booth in the family's diner. Her non-existent love life always goes back to her brother's best friend and football player Ramsey who unbeknownst to her also has her in his dreams. They meet again at a writer's event where both are wearing disguises and he makes his way back to her life. As when they were at the university he continues to be the one who sees her, her difficulties, her strong points and respects her. His work for the community of Gibson Hollow will endear hearts who will be teaming for a happy ending for the couple. A great start to a new series. As always Kait develops strong characters who are relatable and a small town who would be everyone's dream.
I thank the author for this ARC.

[Christyg · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a start to a new series! I not only fell in love with Ramsey and Alia, but with the whole family and town! Ramsey is such a protector. I nearly swooned the moment he got up on stage at the book conference. The other male main characters in future books in this series are going to have a hard time taking over the spot in my heart that Ramsey filled. And I have a major girl crush on Alia. She is amazing for so many reasons. I laughed, cried and swooned at so many things in this story. I'm tempted to start an immediate reread so I can enjoy it all again. I'm grateful that I haven't experienced what these characters in this town are going through. I have often wondered in the last year or so what has happened to everyone in the areas of such catastrophic damage from the weather events of recent years. The story puts some of that into perspective and feels so real. It makes me want to find a way to help. I am already looking forward to the next book - especially with that ending! I received an advance copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Whynotfarm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I know. I know! Last book of Kait’s I reviewed I said it was my favorite ever. And it was!
But that was before Alia and Ramsey. OMGOSH!!! This was all the buttons for me. I started my reading fascination at a very young age. I read the whole primer they gave us in first grade as soon as they were handing them out and wanted to know what we were reading next. The teacher was like….’This is for the year’. I was crushed. So began the reading of my older brother’s books, all sci-fi and FANTASY! So that’s where this book got me, right in the feels. Not only all the things that I love about Kait’s books (strong women characters, loving families, lasting friendships, oh yes, did I mention the falling in love parts) but the side hustle of fantasy in Alia and Ramsey’s story. I absolutely loved it. And there’s nothing sexier than a man willing to help. And who knows how to help without constantly asking what’s next. Nothing.
So without just coming out and revealing everything…. Just read the book.
I could not have loved it more. (And I’m reading it again. Back to back with itself!)

[JigsawGirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was heartwarming, touching, romantic, and provided all the feels. Ramsey saw Alia. He understood her, supported her, loved her, and let her be her. Other than Blair and Uncle Dee, he provided her with what she needed.

Part of the great thing about this book was in spite of Ramsey being a pro football player, the focus was not on him and how Alia would fit into his world. It seemed like for Ramsey to make Alia's world better, automatically made his world better. He was the person that could tell when Alia was about to break and did whatever he could to.prevent it.

One of my favorite parts of the book was the Sasspatch Society Group. They brought the humor, the sass, and the sparkle. I think most people could use an Uncle Dee in their lives. After the cliffhanger of the prequel, there was no way I could put this book down without finishing it. Now I'm caught up in wondering what Bodie has going on in his life.

I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.

[Irene S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ten years after Alia receives a kiss from her high school crush Ramsey at a masked ball, she receives a second one from him. The second kiss is as powerful as the first. Since both of them were disguised both times, neither is sure if the other one realized who they were kissing. Taking over responsibility for the flood ravaged town keeps Alia from writing her secret romantasy novels as well as regular meals and sleep. Ramsey was warned away from Alia ten years ago from her twin brother and his best friend Bodie. Now he is back for a second chance and to offload some of Alia's responsibilities. I received a free copy of this ebook from the author. This is my honest and voluntarily given review. I love that Ramsey really sees her and how the load is crushing her. I also love the dramatic way he rescues her at a book event. Ramsey is the perfect book boyfriend. There are a multitude of wonderful secondary characters, especially Uncle Dee, Blake, and Blair and he Sasspatch Society. I am eager to read the next book in this series.

[Kathi · Rating 5 out of 5]

So Many Layers Here!!

A small town, a real community. Recovering from a catastrophic event (can you say Helene and Western NC?). Alia cared for her many siblings upon her mothers death. Now she is caring for the town as her father, the mayor was badly hurt. The weight on her shoulders is great.

Ramsey Shaw is a famous football player. He and Alia had two smoldering kisses, but each in a situation where they do not think the other is aware (masks & disguises). Ramsey is best friends with Alia’s twin and police chief Bodie. Ramsey comes to Gibson Hollow for the off season to help. He sees the weight no one else can.

Besides the community, family and construction, we have pocket snacks, biscuits, office dragons, the Sasspatch Society, social media frenzy and a relationship that is swoon-worthy. Realistic, entertaining and romantic. All the things.

***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****