Title: Come As You Are by Jess K Hardy

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars


46-year-old Ashley Cooke is desperate to save her struggling ski hill. In an attempt to cut costs, she hires men from a local sober living home, despite thinking she might have gone too far. With maxed-out credit cards, a cheating ex-husband trying to buy her out, and record-breaking snow on the way, Ashley can’t afford any distractions.

Enter 53-year-old Matthew Madigan, the bearded, tattooed owner of the sober living home, who brings a simmering desire Ashley can’t ignore.

Matthew, a recovering addict and ex-grunge rocker, has spent the last decade dedicated to the men at his sober living home. Meeting the tightly wound Ashley stirs up desires he’s kept dormant. Immune to his rusty charm, Ashley presents a challenge he’s eager to tackle.

As they navigate bunny hill lessons, chairlift confessions, and steamy cabin serenades, both learn valuable lessons about second chances and self-worth.

When sabotage threatens both Ashley’s ski hill and Matthew’s men, they must decide if their relationship is just a winter fling or something worth fighting for.

What I Loved:

* Mature Characters: It was refreshing to read about characters in their 40s and 50s experiencing love and personal growth. This later-in-life romance added depth and relatability to the story. As well as making the setting and scenarios realistic and giving us romantics hope that true love does exist in all settings and ages.

* Realistic Themes: The novel handles themes of addiction and therapy in a healthy and positive manner. It’s a realistic portrayal of second chances and healing, making the setting feel genuine and grounded. I felt so much with this story and its delicate themes.

* Second Chances: The second-chance love story was heartwarming and filled with “the feels.” Both Ashley and Matthew’s journeys toward self-acceptance and love were beautifully portrayed. Their whole relationship is just beautiful.

* Humour and Charm: The bunny hill shenanigans and chairlift confessions were delightful. The humour sprinkled throughout the book made it an enjoyable and light-hearted read considering the dark, delicate themes being explored.

* Emotional Depth: The steamy cabin serenades and deep emotional connections between the characters added layers to the romance. It wasn’t just about the physical attraction but also about emotional healing and understanding and I was all for this!

* Strong Supporting Cast: The men from the sober living home and the St. Bernard rescue dog added charm and warmth to the story. Their interactions with Ashley and Matthew enriched the narrative. The supporting cast added to the healing aspects of the story.

Come As You Are by Jess K Hardy is a heartwarming, later-in-life romance that beautifully tackles themes of addiction, therapy, and second chances. With mature characters, realistic settings, and a perfect blend of humour and emotional depth, this novel is a must-read for anyone looking to experience a heartfelt love story. Highly recommended for those who enjoy feeling all the emotions while reading!

Thank you to The Publisher Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op ,The Author Jess K Hardy & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

Another great romcom to add to my summer reading journal. I can’t believe that I had not heard of this book! It was great!