Legacy

This is a wonderful start to the new Ashford Creek (the setting for this heartwarming small town romance) series. There is a prequel novella (Careless) which can be read before this giving a little more details of the earlier interactions between the lead characters.

Legacy is the first full book in the new series and can be read without the prequel if you want, as it provides all the relevant information as you progress in the story and get to know Felicity and Callum, and the town of Ashford Creek.

This book fits into several tropes: age-gap, best friend’s little sister, and small town romance, so there is definitely something for everyone. There is great depth to this story, with difficult topics being handled sensitively with well written narrative. The story is full of emotion and romance, and a sprinkling of suspense keeping you eagerly turning the pages.

We also get to meet Felicity's two brothers and all of the many siblings in the Ashford family. There is no lacking of wonderful characters and this is looking to be an epic series, full of spicy romance, strong family bonds and rich storytelling, all set in this sweet small town. The strong story along with the suspense woven in, keep this series and the top of my TBR for 2026!

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

Accidental Runaway Groom is proof that Carrie Ann Ryan can deliver maximum swoon in novella form—and somehow make it feel just as rich, emotional, and satisfying as a full-length romance.

Set in the beloved Montgomery World and Clover Lake universe, this next-generation story brings together grumpy rancher Sharp McBride and steady, quietly strong Jamie Montgomery in a friends-to-lovers romance that is absolutely not what you think. From the very first chapter, Ryan flips expectations on their head, taking a familiar trope and twisting it into something heartfelt, tender, and unexpectedly moving.

No matter the page count, Carrie Ann Ryan has an uncanny ability to make every moment count, and this novella is no exception. Jamie and Sharp’s story begins in the most unorthodox way, and that off-kilter start becomes the foundation for a romance filled with warmth, trust, and deep emotional connection. There’s a slow, delicious build as friendship shifts into something more, with stolen moments, unspoken feelings, and a growing realization that what they’ve always needed might have been right in front of them all along.

Sharp’s gruff, closed-off exterior contrasts beautifully with Jamie’s calm strength and unwavering loyalty, creating a dynamic that is both comforting and swoon-worthy. The ranch setting, familiar faces from the Montgomery world, and the sense of found family only add to the charm, grounding the romance in a place that feels like home.

Accidental Runaway Groom may be a novella, but it delivers big on heart, emotion, and romantic payoff. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most unexpected beginnings lead to the most satisfying love stories—and Carrie Ann Ryan once again proves she’s a master at making readers fall hard, no matter the length. 💕

A fantastic emotional start to a brand new series. With the author’s signature style of weaving family, community and friendship into a story filled with love, intrigue and intimacy this book brings all the feels.