Back in December 2024, I discovered Victorine E Lieske’s latest release at the time—Because You Loved Me—although I don’t recall exactly how I stumbled across it… probably through her author newsletter I’m subscribed to. I borrowed it through Kindle Unlimited and devoured it! It’s the first book in the Willow Shade Island series, and I was bummed I had to wait for the next instalment.
Lo and behold, book two released earlier this month (🎉), and I was thrilled to return to Willow Shade Island!
Because You Loved Me is a sweet single dad, small town romance. Tobias and Kiki’s story is a unique twist on the nanny/boss trope—with complicated secrets, rich brotherly dynamics (yes, I totally fell in love with Tobias and his family) and the sweetest little girl they’d both do anything to protect. It’s not every day you read a story where a biological mother becomes her daughter’s nanny! The interactions between little Skyler and the adults in her world were delightful.
Since we learn from the first chapter that Kiki gave Skyler up for adoption at birth, the tension ramped up with every page Tobias didn’t know the truth. He knew Kiki had secrets, but as a reader, it had me on edge—waiting for the moment everything came to light, hoping it would all work out in the end.
You’re Still the One is a slow burn, second chance romance featuring Noah—Tobias’s brother—who’s loved Savannah since his teenage years. When he’s offered the chance to fake-date her, he dives in without hesitation. Like Tobias and Kiki, Noah and Savannah have complex issues to navigate, and the state of their hearts is only one part of the story.
I felt great empathy for them both. Their shared history, secrets, and burdens made their romance that much sweeter. Despite the heavier themes—physical and mental health struggles—this story also has lighter, heartwarming moments. Fun home renovations, adorable Skyler shenanigans, and playful teasing among the Barrett brothers all added to a well-rounded, satisfying romance.
Have you visited Willow Shade Island or read any of Victorine E Lieske’s romances? Let me know in the comments below!
Until next time,
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