Can a wish tear down walls around a heart?
In the summer of 1998, Lily Harper drifts into Willowbrook, Ohio, her heart guarded by old scars and a plan to leave as soon as she’s done rebranding the town’s beloved county fair. But Ethan Calloway, the gruff bookstore owner protecting his late father’s legacy, turns her quick exit into a heated clash of wills. Their bickering sparks something deeper, kindled by the Wishing Tree’s hopeful ribbons and starlit summer nights.
As 90s pop songs blast from boomboxes and kids race through the fairgrounds, Willowbrook’s loyal friends weave a community that tugs at Lily’s defenses. Can she trust a town—and a love—worth staying for?
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This story is one of the things that I love about small-town romance. I ended up finishing this book in the middle of the night when I couldn't sleep. Willowbrook Wishes is one of those stories that will break your heart at times, but at the same time will have you smiling. I loved escaping into Willowbrook, Ohio, and as I read, I pictured myself there, along with Lily, Ethan, Carol, and the others. One of my favorite things about Willowbrook Wishes was the community, and the way that they looked out for one another, and how everyone made Lily feel welcome. It had me wishing I could escape there myself; it sounds just the type of place I would love to live in.
I loved that this book took place in the 90s, and the references brought it back to that time. I feel like this book needs a ’90s playlist to go with it. Ethan, at first, wasn’t sure whether he and Lily would get along, since he didn’t agree with her plan for the country fair. I understood why he didn’t, and he wasn’t the only one, and I hoped that Lily would change their minds. As time passed, I noticed the connection and attraction between Ethan and Lily; I feel like everyone did. I wished that Lily wouldn’t pull away from him, although I understood why she did. I loved the last few chapters. There was part of me that didn’t want the story to end, and I felt as if each character became a friend.
I don't mind reading spicy books, but I also love closed-door small-town romance where the focus is on the characters' connection. However, Willowbrook Wishes was so much more than that. This was one of the books where there wasn’t a single character I didn’t love, they were like one big family, and I loved it! Willowbrook Wishes is a story that will stay with you, long after you finish it. I’m so grateful I got chance to read it. I can’t wait to see what Kristen has for us next.
