Steady Now by Liberty Stowe is an emotionally grounded, slow-burn romance that deftly explores the intersection of personal healing and unexpected connection. With beautifully introspective prose, Stowe crafts a tender story of resilience, second chances, and the quiet courage it takes to trust again. The novel centers on two protagonists—each grappling with emotional scars from their past. One is seeking peace in the stillness of a small town, while the other is trying to outrun the noise of a life that never offered stability. Their meeting isn’t explosive or dramatic—instead, it’s gentle, like two drifting souls finally anchoring to something solid.

Can I just say, I need some Hudson Bass in my real life! Way to knock it out of the park, Liberty Stowe. Hud is my new book boyfriend, and I think this may be my favorite Small Town Romance read of the year! The visit to Vogel Springs is a much needed kick off to summer! I love the author's description of this carved out place in the Hill Country of West Texas, as well as how grounded the story stayed between the two main characters and the moving parts of the thriving town. You can't help but escape with the FMC into the locals' arms that are spread wide for her. So much of this read surprised me, touched me and resonated with my own experiences of the ideals of small town living. This is the town you want to escape to... it's the place you want to hang your hat, and the people you want to surround you on your greatest day, and your worst ~

Vogel Springs takes on a character and life of its own just as Wren's is coming together in ways she least expected. I found this book topping my list mid way through, and the ending did not disappoint. The spice is very well done! I will be looking forward to more from liberty Stowe.

I don't often get to say this, and I can't say that I've ever given a Small Town Romance 5 Stars, but Steady Now earned them. There is nothing neglected in this book!

Loved this book from the first three pages!!! It gave off Lucy Score/Claire Kingsley Vibes, and they are two of my favorite rom com authors. I've now added Miss Liberty to that list!!!! The witty banter ( and internal funny thoughts) was 15/10. This gave me the giggles, the snorts, and the swoons. I loved it and will be off to Amazon to see if she has more books to read!!!

Steady now is a beautiful book, after Wren’s Maserati breaks down just outside Vogel Springs it brings her into Hud’s orbit, this is a great slow burn romance full of growth and healing from both their pasts. This is a perfect small town romance.

I really enjoyed reading this small town romance. The characters were layered and I loved Hud & Wren’s relationship. The sexual tension was nicely built and we all love a Byronic hero. Connor & Anderson’s characters brought some much needed comic relief. I found myself really rooting for Wren as she took back her agency and forged herself a new life. I hope we can get more from Cal & Anderson - maybe a book 2?

An easy read in a good way. The characters captivate you and you want to keep reading to find out their past and what will happen for the two main characters.
Set in a small town in Texas, where there is a real sense of that small town vibe (think Gilmore Girls).
This is a slow burn romance book. With some spicy scenes too!

Five stars out of Five Stars. Love the small town feel of this book and the chemistry between the two characters are amazing. The friends/family in this small town reminds me of Gilmore Girls because everyone knows everyone. If you love a book where both characters fall first and steamy as can be this is your book.
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjnyLp2T/

Steady Now is a beautifully layered romance that quietly pulls you in and holds your heart the whole way through.

Wren is cautious and emotionally closed off when we meet her—understandably so, given her past. But what struck me most was how much strength she carried beneath the surface. Watching her begin to trust, to let herself be seen and loved, was incredibly moving.

Hud, in contrast to his calm and grounded exterior, carries wounds of his own. He’s guarded too—not in the same way as Wren, but you can feel how his past has shaped him. His protectiveness, his hesitation, and the way he slowly opens up added so much depth to his character.

It was truly beautiful to watch both of them—so different, yet so alike in their fears—learn to trust again. Their connection felt genuine and hard-won. Liberty Stowe handled their emotional arcs with such care. The “opposites attract” dynamic wasn’t just a trope here; it was the foundation for real, meaningful growth on both sides.

The drama had weight but never overshadowed the heart of the story. Every moment of tension pushed the characters closer to healing. The pacing of their relationship was just right—slow, intentional, and incredibly satisfying by the time they let themselves fall.

By the end, I felt so deeply invested in Wren and Hud’s journey. This is one of those stories that stays with you—a quiet, powerful reminder of how love can be both a risk and a refuge.

This book is a great summer read. So cute and small town romance. Love the plot twist and characters development throughout this book. You will fall in love with the town and the people in the town. Bubble gum for the brain in the best way possible.

Hats off to my dear friend and fellow author, Liberty Stowe! I believe you have this summer's Small Town Romance on your hands!

Congrats on Hud & Wren! I ate every page up and was desparate for more Vogel Springs, Texas!

You have a true hit my friend!

Raye Murphy

First of all thank you for approving my request!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The authors writing style had me hooked throughout this book.

I didn't want it to end, a book I really couldn't put down.

THANK YOU NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC! Just another fictional town I'd love to move to.

Wren Baldwin is running away when her Maserati has other plans. Stuck in a small town in the middle of nowhere, she finds herself embraced by the diner owner across the street from the surly mechanic who is working on her car.
Hudson "Hud" Bass can't believe he has to work on a Maserati, and is in denial about if he thinks the car or the girl is hotter.
Complete with a custody battle, a legal battle over land, overcoming trauma and obstacles from the past, leaning on friendships - this story was so sweet and wonderful!!

Do you love small town romances with a slow burn? If yes, then this is the book for you!
Liberty Stowe gave us a perfect summer read that gives you the comfy feels of a loving community united together who is considered more family than friends. Wren and Hud are both scared of letting their guard down but learn to be vulnerable and accept help from friends, although some more than others. Their personalities give off grumpy and sunshine and after a good amount of side remarks and banter they come face to face with what they feel for each other. Their best friends Cal and Anderson are hilarious characters who really lift the mood in any situation. Besides the romance and hardships they have to face it is truly a comedy as well, it’s a novel where you will feel the love and frustrations, but you will certainly get a laugh. I could not put this book down towards the end, it is definitely my favorite scenes where there is legal action and keeps it very entertaining! For sure one of my five star reads!
Huge thank you to RupertBossier and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC and share my thoughts!

stay a while if you can and you will most certainly want to. can i come visit too? what a delightful read. full of depth and lightness in all the right places. it had that smiley humour and dry wit woven through it with both the plot and characters. it also had the much deeper bits too and themes of life that could bury a person. and so what do you need in those times. to run? feel it like a lead weight? or run towards and find your people? they might just lighten the load and find your home.
i loved Liberty Stowe's description of the place she created for us. Vogel Springs is one of those small towns you can picture in your own mind. and what a place for Wren to run to. it didn't over do it or become to sacrin a place. it just had that feeling to it. when done well "small town" tagline has a reason for it. and it because of places like this. these thriving but caring little pockets of the world. where if you land in them and get lucky enough to be enveloped by them then they truly are the places to be.
the book brings us Wren who is running away when he car shows her its own plans. she now stuck in this small town in the middle of nowhere. and has to ask the help of the moody mechanic who cant quite believe his luck on both car and owner! although he cant show it, because the "mood" is the cover for so much more that Hudson is dealing with.
as these two come together there is something, something they both can feel with every part of them. but wrong place wrong time is all they can think about. there lives dont match at all. there currently problems will blow them both away from each other. right? right? well yeh, love doesn't work like that honey. and this town doesn't work like that either. as the town bustles about its everyday life both our pair might just be give then people, town and time to heal a bit. live a bit. love a bit. and be steady...steady now.

💕 ✦ 𝒮𝓂𝒶𝓁𝓁 𝒯𝑜𝓌𝓃 ℛ𝑜𝓂𝒶𝓃𝒸𝑒 ℛ𝑒𝒸𝑜𝓂𝓂𝑒𝓃𝒹𝒶𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃 ✦ 💕

𝑆𝑡𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑦 𝑁𝑜𝑤
by Liberty Stowe

Standalone ✦ 384 pages
Publication date: 1 August 2025
*debut*

ARC: @netgalley

𝑆𝑚𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑡𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑟𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒
𝑃𝑙𝑜𝑡 + 𝑟𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒
𝐴𝑑𝑑𝑖𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑢𝑛𝑝𝑢𝑡𝑑𝑜𝑤𝑛𝑎𝑏𝑙𝑒
𝑂𝑛𝑒 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑟 🚜😉
𝑇𝑒𝑥𝑡 𝑚𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑎𝑔𝑒𝑠 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑏𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑒𝑠

Stunning cover and a fabulous debut!!

This was the perfect palate cleanser. I finished this book in one day. I couldn’t put it down. An absolutely irresistible tale with a perfect blend of captivating plot and slow burn romance.

𝐖𝐫𝐞𝐧 is running away from a breakup/life and her car breaks down near this super cute small town of Vogel Springs, TX. She falls in love with the town, finds a purpose in life, finds what makes her happy and maybe even a tall, dark and handsome guy.

𝐇𝐮𝐝 owns a lot of land in Vogel Springs that has been passed down in his family. The last thing he wants to do is sell but this corporation will stop at nothing to fight for it. And, on top of dealing with this legal mess, he is trying to fight for custody of his son. And, on top of that, here comes Wren and her Maserati being towed into his shop in need of repairs. Wren is absolutely hilarious, and it is hard not to like her. Hud is your next book boyfriend. Period.

Liberty Stowe has written an artfully crafted story and created characters that are so raw and real; they are far from perfect, but that makes them human and makes you want to root for them. 𝑆𝑡𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑦 𝑁𝑜𝑤 is a remarkable debut with an unforgettable cast of characters, an intriguing plot, and swoon-worthy romance. Add to your tbr now, you don’t want to miss this one!

✦ Y’all, the tractor scene. 🔥 Chapter 31!
Rating: 4.5/5

This is an ARC review. I want to thank Liberty Stowe and RupertBossier for allowing me the chance to read this book ahead of release day!

Being from Texas, this was a book I was excited to read. This town, I got the full picture of what it looked like and wanted nothing more than to visit it. It was described perfectly as well as the overly friendly vibe of the people from the town drew me in even further.

Wren and Hud met and the banter immediately occurred! I LOVE the banter so much between Wren and Hud. Getting past the tension and the forget it moment the spice was spicin! I don’t know if I’ll look at a tractor the same again. Iykyk. I also happened to really enjoy the best friend’s Cal and Anderson. Both are fiercely loyal to their besties and everyone deserves friends like them.

This was such a good palate cleansing book. It was wholesome with a bit of cursin and spice. I truly enjoyed the writing style and the pace of the plot. Overall, such a good southern love story.

Steady Now.

"Steady Now" by Liberty Stowe is a poignant exploration of grief, love, and human connection. The novel follows the story of a young woman navigating the complexities of relationships and loss. With lyrical prose and nuanced characterization, Stowe masterfully captures the emotional depth of her characters. The writing is evocative, and the storytelling is both powerful and intimate. This novel is a beautiful and thought-provoking read, offering a profound exploration of the human experience. Stowe's debut is a promising start to a literary career, showcasing her talent for crafting compelling stories that linger long after the final page.

This was a hard one to finish for me. Almost until the end, I felt like the characters barely knew each other, and not in a “when you know, you just know” kind of way. I found Hud to be pretty unlikeable especially every time he called a woman a bitch. It really colored everything else he said and did for me.

They liked each other way too fast and over analyzed everything within one day of knowing each other, but actually they’d spent almost no time together and barely talked. Overall, there was far more internal monologue than actual conversation or time spent together.

It was absolutely insane that Anderson just decides to buy a house and start a business in the town his friend broke down in and no one addresses that as strange other than the one time Wren mentions it, but she already knows Anderson so she gets it.

Not to be too nit-picky, but since there were multiple plot points that seemed improbable, I found that they added up to make a pretty unlivable story. How did Anderson put in an offer, close on a house, and get a parade-load of contractors to show up within days of finding out the house exists? It’s so unrealistic I wanted to quit the book before I even got to 50%.

I did not find the storyline compelling that all these small town folk wanted a big company to come take a family’s land to build a factory, even if it was for jobs. A town would never turn on one of their own in favor of some developers like that. Everyone in that town seemed so unlikeable by that point, I didn’t even want Wren to stay. She kept saying it was home and I felt like it was full of some of the worst people I’d ever read about.

All in all, if it weren’t for getting this ARC from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review, I wouldn’t have even finished it.

I truly am a sucker for small-town romance and this was top tier. The build was excellent. The characters were easy to love. I’d love to visit this town. Steady Now was a win for me !

🚗💔💫 Steady Now by Liberty Stowe is a small-town romance dream! 🌾💖 From a broken-down Maserati to a sizzling Texas mechanic, this story is packed with heart, heat, and humor. 🔥

Wren & Hud’s chemistry is off the charts, and Vogel Springs is a place you’ll want to move to ASAP. 🥓🚜 The banter, the longing, and the tender moments totally stole my heart. If you love small-town charm, wounded heroes, and a heroine finding more than she ever expected — 📚✨ grab this book now! You’ll swoon & sigh all the way to the last page. 😍

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley, the Author and Publisher for this ARC of Steady Now!! Such a good book and I could not put it down. I absolutely loved the story of Wren and Hudson. I adored everyone in this group that were involved in Wren and Hudson's life. I really hope that this author writes another book about some of the characters in this book I would read a whole series about these people. 5 star read!!

I loved this book from start to finish. It has so many elements of books that I love.

-Small Town
-Single Dad
-City Girl starting over
-Found Family

Wren and Hud are the ultimate City Girl/Small Town Guy story line. There is so much chemistry, tension, and intensity between these two. They will draw you in and frustrate the hell out of you in the best way.

The supporting characters and their storyline are just as great. Anderson and Cal... adorable. Connor, Hud's son is so sweet and loving. Martha the town mother is just the best.

This book will not disappoint. I really can't wait to read more of Liberty's books.

ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Net Galley and Liberty Stowe.

This is a cute small town romance. Big city girl Wren is in the middle of running away from her problems when her very rare, expensive car breaks down and she is forced to stay in a “one horse town”. She ends up falling in love with the town and the people. She even falls in love with the mechanic that fixes her car who is also a single dad with a complicated ex. There is drama, angst, friendships old and new, and spice all rolled up in this book. He protected her before he even knew her (such a southern gentleman!). There’s so many cute and funny moments with this full cast of characters.

Small-town contemporary romance - Dual POV - Slow burn - Single dad - He falls first - Found Family

This is one of those stories that catch you off guard—with tenderness and emotional intensity. I didn’t expect to like it this much! Or to feel this much. I really didn’t expect it to hit me this hard!


Told in dual POV, the story follows Wren, who is running from a messy breakup and from her controlling father, and Hud, a single dad, stubborn, stoic, and heartbreakingly loyal who seems has given up on love.



The story begins with Wren Baldwin arriving in Vogel Springs, a small Texas town, after her car (a pearl-white 444-horsepower Maserati, basically a UFO in a place like that) breaks down. It's clear from the very beginning that she’s running from something, though we only learn the truth near the end of the book. One thing is for sure: she never expected to meet Hud Bass, a sexy, silent, absolutely irresistible mechanic ready to turn her world upside down.



Hud is the kind of hero who wins you over quietly. One of those men who say little but show everything through their actions. Fixing her car, making sure she has a place to stay in the meantime, standing up for her even when she doesn’t ask. Every gesture makes Wren, and you, fall for him a little more. But yes: he is the one who falls first. Hard.



Their connection is a perfect slow burn: tension-filled silences, meaningful glances, sharp banter and vulnerability. It’s not just physical attraction, although believe me, it’s there (just one word: “tractor”… you’ll know when you get there) but it’s an emotional connection that feels rare and powerful. The kind you root for screaming YEAH!!


Hud is everything I love in a book boyfriend: protective but not possessive, loyal and honest, always quietly showing up for the people he loves. Wren is a heroine I instantly connected with: she’s been through hell, but she still fights for her happiness. She’s afraid but unbreakable. She’s fierce, brave, and she accepts some good challenges.



The town of Vogel Springs is your classic close-knit community where everyone knows your business but somehow it manages to be welcoming, warm, and real—like family. 

The side characters are everything! They step up to support each other, and show that you don’t need grand gestures to help, just the will to show up, with what you have and who you are. Gorgeous!

One of the most beautiful things in this book is the way friendship is portrayed: as a true lifeline. Anderson gives Wren a reason to stay (in the form of a historic infested-house to turn into a B&B). Cal helps Hud see the truth behind Rosalee’s manipulation and how to fight for custody of his son. And together—with Wren—they uncover a long-standing fraud that helps Hud save his land and business. No one is alone. They don’t save each other with superpowers—they save each other with love, loyalty, and grit.



And the title? "Steady Now" it’s not just a phrase, it’s a legacy. Hud’s father used to say it in hard times, Hud tattooed it on his back, and now he says it to Wren when she’s most vulnerable—and to himself, when he needs the strength to keep fighting for the people he loves. Poetry!



So, my only complaint? The cover. This book deserves an illustrated one—preferably featuring a real WHITE Maserati. PLEASE!



⚠️ CW: Custody battle, drug addiction (off-page), controlling parental relationship (off-page), emotional distress from a one-sided relationship (off-page).



Huge thanks to NetGalley and Rupert Bossier for the ARC of this emotional gem.

I'm really surprised. Maybe because this is the first contemporary small town romance that I read in a while (taking a break from romantasy) and I'm really glad I landed on this story.
Wren and Hudson are amazing, with their realistic flaws and all but very likable (even relatable at moments). Not too dramatic, not too plain. Loved their connection (a bit rushed) and how they both navigated their issuse and growth. The right amount of personality for both, no complains there. The story has great side caracter too that make the journey even nicer. Hope this is the start of a series or interconected books because It would be a shame no knowing more about Vogel Springs and their people, or even more about Hud and Wren.
I really enjoyed that beyonce the romance plot, there was something else happening driving the book. The plot wans't JUST the romance, a very nice complement.. I finished this book in one day, I just couldn't put it down, I really needed to know the outcome!|

Anyway, a fast-paced story, emotional but with some spice and with dual POV. What else do we want? Oh yeah, THE TRACTOR. Go read and thank me later, totally worth it.

"Steady" by Liberty Stowe has garnered high praise, and I am pleased to award it a five-star rating. The narrative is captivating. The story follows Wren Baldwin, who seeks respite from her troubles, but her luxury Maserati experiences a breakdown near Vogel Springs, Texas. The closest repair shop is owned by Hudson Bass, a man of intense demeanor and striking appearance. From their initial encounter, the narrative suggests a palpable chemistry between the protagonists. The content is also humorous and engaging.

I’ve just finished this and I’m not entirely convinced the main characters even know each others favourite colour. Just insta love and no substance behind it.

For me it felt like hud was possessive over wren almost immediately despite only knowing her for ~24 hours. Which in itself is major offputting and takes me out of the book. I’m also not a huge fan of when characters hook up so early in the book. Where’s the yearning? The silent pining? Or just generally getting to know each other before they take each others clothes off.

Ultimately this book was not for me!

Steady Now meant so much more than just the title of the book. It was in the moment he helped her, the moment she was brave enough to comfort him, the moment she first looked at his bare back in bed, the moments in his childhood and the moments with his own son.

This was a small town with a grumpy mechanic with a big heart and a few Steady Nows for comfort. I loved it, and i am so glad i picked it up for summer reading. My heart was following the road to their happy ending, and i was a blushing mess when things got spicy.

A gorgeous girl with an equally gorgeous Maseratti finds herself stranded in a small town when her car starts giving her problems. Shouldn't be a problem since they have the best mechanic in town named Hud. Hud has a thing for fixing things, even people.

Its such a cozy town, so of course it has the best dinner you can imagine. I'd die to try one of Martha's blueberry muffins. They're such a simple thing to make, but I'm sure hers are out of this world. I enjoyed how Hud and and Wren's life and personal circles tied together towards the end. I thought the book was well written and I think everything was executed good. Thank you to Netgalley, RupertBossier, and Liberty Stowe for an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion.

Oooh this needs to be a movie! I adored the small-town vibes, the plot twists, and the way it all ties together in the end. Wren and her damsel-in-distress- who-drives-a-Maserati with Hud, the mechanic who we think is going to save the day, but does he or she in the end?! I adored Anderson’s role as the foil, and the father role that Hud plays. The cute small town details from dollar general clothes to the diner where everyone gossips was really well done. Great debut novel!

I really got into this story right from the start, absolutely loved it.
We have Wren running away from life in her Maserati and her car breaking down in that cute small town. She meets Hud; the broody, single dad mechanic who is facing his own problems (fighting for custody of his kid and keeping his land). They both have the most amazing best friends (the texting between them was so fun) and the banter between Wren and Hud had me crying.
Loved the characters, Wren is a sweetheart and Hud is the perfect book boyfriend!
Didn't expect this book to grab me the way it did, but it had me feeling all the feelings and it might be my favourite Small Town Romance this year.

If you're looking for Small town - Single dad - Slow burn - Found family - He falls first - HEA ... Read this one! You won't regret it.

Thanks to Netgalley, RupertBossier and Liberty Stowe for entrusting me with an advanced copy to write an honest review about.

Title- Steady Now
Author - Liberty Stone

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, especially how it delved into multiple perspectives, allowing me to see things from different characters’ points of view. The story follows Wren Baldwin, who’s on the run after a breakup with her boyfriend/colleague, not to mention the strained relationship with her overbearing father. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when her Maserati breaks down on a remote road, leaving her stranded and in desperate need of a bathroom.

The narrative was engaging, with each character adding a unique layer to the plot. The way the book explored their thoughts and motivations kept me hooked from start to finish.

I appreciated the dynamic between Wren and her best friend. I loved how he was always there for her, showing up consistently when she needed him most.

The steamy scene was undeniably intense, and you could feel the chemistry between Wren and Hudson right from the moment they locked eyes. Their connection was instant and electric.

Overall, it's a captivating read that really lets you connect with the characters and their struggles.

Imagine fleeing a bad day, only for your car to break down in a one-stoplight town with no escape in sight. What starts as a frustrating detour quickly turns into something unexpected—and beautiful. At the heart of this story is a quiet, soul-deep connection between two people who meet by chance but find exactly what they didn’t know they were missing: strength, softness, and the kind of love that feels like home.

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

SPICE: 3🌶, RATING: 4⭐️

Steady Now was a spicy, fun, comeback beach read I needed.
Woman comes into town driving a Maserati with nothing but her travel bag and ends up borrowing a charger from the local car maintenance man. The town rallies with her to help her in her time of need while she's stranded waiting for parts to fix her prized possession while the MMC who owns the local car shop feels like his world is falling apart and being taken from him. Neither of them wanting to admit their feelings for each other, they both sit in limbo waiting to see what happens next.

This book has it all. The characters you love, the characters you love to hare, the spice, the romance, the comraderies and small town gossips while a small circle comes together to fight for what they believe is right.
There was nothing I didn't like about the storyline, plot, characters of this book.

I really enjoyed Steady Now. It’s a slow-burn, emotionally rich romance that feels genuine and grounded. The characters’ journeys of healing and trust are beautifully written, with heartfelt moments and subtle humor. The small-town setting adds warmth and charm, making it the perfect escape. If you like thoughtful, character-driven romances with great banter, this one’s worth a read.

This book was very enjoyable and had a lot of heart. I really liked the small town atmosphere, it felt warm and cozy and made me want to keep reading. Wren was a fun main character. I liked how she stayed strong even when things went wrong. She had a good energy and brought a fresh contrast to the calm town. Hud was more quiet and serious, but that worked well with her. Their connection started with sparks but still felt natural and slow at the same time, which I liked. There were some funny moments, especially thanks to Wren’s best friend. The romance was sweet and emotional, with some spicy moments too. I think the chemistry was clear, but not rushed, and I appreciated that.
In general, this was a fun and easy read. Thank you so much to the author and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving a honest review

First of all - beautiful book cover!!!
I knew after reading the book summary that it was the perfect summer book read!

Loved the dual POVs — Wren + Hud was slow burn perfection! I couldn’t put it down. I liked how the book began with a picture and ended with a picture - great touch! I will definitely recommend!!

Where can one get themselves an Anderson?

A heartwarming small-town romance that follows Wren, a wealthy-on-paper woman fleeing her past, who finds herself stranded in Vogel Springs—a charming town where everyone knows everyone, and kindness runs deep. Enter Hudson, a single dad weighed down by the possibility of losing his land, business, and even his son. Despite everything stacked against him, he falls hard for Wren.

Wren is sweet and grounded despite her background, and her chemistry with Hudson brings genuine warmth to the story. The side characters—especially Cal and Anderson—are a delight, and their bond is truly endearing. Rosalie? Let’s just say she got exactly what she deserved.

The novel does leave some questions hanging: What happened to Wren and Hudson? Did he gain full custody of Connor? What became of Anderson and Cal? A final epilogue would have tied it all together beautifully.

Though the pacing occasionally stumbles with a few choppy transitions, Steady Now is a sweet, feel-good summer read with heart. A promising and enjoyable debut.

Loved this book! It’s a quick, easy, and sweet story. Hudson is sweet but gets in his own way. Wren is fierce and learning her value. I really enjoyed the found family aspect of this one. The supporting characters were entertaining and I laughed quite a bit while reading. Definitely recommend for summer reading!

This was my first read by this author and it will not be my last. This book had everything a reader can ask for: beautifully written characters in Wren and Hud, just the right amount of angst, a storyline that I could not put down and then Ms. Stowe added in secondary characters that made me smile. This book should not be missed.

Right from the very beginning this book winds you in and keeps you interested until the very last word. The characters are so endearing that I want to live in Vogel Springs just to see them walking down the road. I adored the slow burn relationship between Wren and Hudson and their wonderful friends who champion them in every aspect of their relationship.

Hudson is such a caring Father and Wren is just so open that I am sure you could read every emotion from her just looking at her face. This is a small town romance with a whole bunch of interesting and faithful people who cheer Hudson and Wren all the way to a happy ending relationship.

The writing is so vivid I can imagine what Vogel House will become and what Hud's garage Bass Pitt Stop actually looks like. And don't get me started on Hud's son Connor, his character is the result of a Father who adores him and parents him with a firm but loving hand in the face of a difficult shared relationship with his Mother Rosalee.

Liberty Stowe writes a wonderful tale that I didn't want to end. Hopefully there will be more books in the future coming from this Author as they will definitely be on my reading list. 5* recommendation from me.

Thanks to Netgalley and Liberty Stowe for the opportunity to read and review this book.

A nice story that has a woman, Wren, breaking down outside of a small town in Texas. Having her car towed to a garage owned by Hudson, who says he can fix it, but it ends up taking longer because of parts. She meets different people and is slowly brought into Hudson’s life with his son and a company that wants to buy his land, which he wants to fight against. Wren and Hudson have a bond, but there is more to each of their stories, and Hudson won’t let her into his life; he is always thinking that she will just leave instead of giving her a chance. An excellent story with wonderful characters

Totally enjoyed the storyline and the characters. Just when things seem to be going right.......they don't. Two totally different worlds collide and make for an awesome story. Laught out loud moments keep the characters real, Glad I snagged this read in #CampNetGalley

I love this book so much!! It has everything from handsome and hunky mechanic, Hud, to sweet and feisty Wren, who arrived in Vogel Springs in a super fast, but broken down, Maserati!! Their chemistry is off the charts, so what could possibly keep them apart? Hud has a scheming baby mama who was back in town to cash in on a big deal that was never going to happen. His son, Connor, was his pride and joy and making the best life for him was of utmost importance. Falling in love with Wren was a bad idea because he knew she would leave his small town as soon as her chariot was fixed.

Vogel Springs has the best homespun diner that was the epicenter for the drama and gossip that kept swirling around the town. Wren’s best friend arrived to check up on her and ended up buying a historic house and falling in love. Maybe the small town life is the way to live because I certainly wanted to move right in and become best friends with everyone. The town fell in love with Wren from the minute she rolled her fancy pink suitcase down the sidewalk. Hud may have a lot on his plate but he vowed to win at all costs when it came to business, and matters of the heart!!

This was a great palate cleanser. I think I’ve found my new favorite author. I’m hoping a sequel is in the works! The spice was top notch and the will they won’t they was great! I enjoyed this book very much!

Small town steamy romance. Wren and Hudson can’t be more different. Their background has nothing in common but their connection is powerfully. Stranded in Vogel Spring with her masseratti, Hudson is the only one mechanic who can repair it. But can he repair more than her car? Will he let her help him with the problems he is facing? The side characters are to die for. Thanks to a NetGalley for the ARC. This is my honest review..

Liberty Stowe's "Steady Now" isn't just a book; it's an experience. From the very first page, I was completely swept away, finding myself utterly incapable of putting it down. This is, without a doubt, a genuine page-turner that will keep you engrossed until the final, satisfying word.
Stowe masterfully crafts a narrative that is both deeply moving and incredibly compelling. The characters feel real, complex, and utterly relatable, drawing you into their lives and making you genuinely care about their journeys. You'll root for them, hurt with them, and celebrate their triumphs as if they were your own. The emotional depth woven throughout the story is remarkable, exploring themes of resilience, connection, and the quiet strength found in everyday moments.
The pacing is impeccable, building suspense and emotion with skillful precision. Just when you think you have things figured out, Stowe introduces a twist or a revelation that keeps you turning the pages. The writing itself is beautiful – evocative, sharp, and perfectly attuned to the emotional landscape of the story.
"Steady Now" is more than just a captivating read; it's a testament to the power of human spirit and the profound impact of steady, unwavering support. It's a book that resonates long after you've turned the last page, leaving you with a sense of hope and a renewed appreciation for the quiet heroes in our lives.
If you're looking for a book that will hook you from the start and refuse to let go, one that delivers an emotional punch while remaining utterly uplifting, then "Steady Now" is an absolute must-read. Prepare to clear your schedule, because once you begin, you won't want to stop.
I want to thank the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Fantastic read!

I got so caught up in this book and couldn't put it down. I got lost in the tiny town Of Vogel Springs and the cast of characters that live there. This story follows Wren and Hudson (Hud) in a small town rich girl local boy will they wont they romance. The support cast of characters are memorable and I would love to see their stories as well. There is a hint of spice, if you are ok with some open door then this will be a great read for you. If you are more of a keep this type of scene off the page then you may want to skip it. I thought it was tastefully done and just the right amount. There were twists and turns that I certainly didn't see coming which drew me in and certainly made me stay up too late because I got so immersed

I love small town romances and this did not disappoint! I loved how much charm there was in a slow-burn romance and i cannot wait to read more from this author!

Welcome to Vogel Springs—where the meringue is sky-high, the tractor emojis are flirty, and healing sometimes comes with a side of motor oil.

Steady Now is a sultry, soul-stirring small-town romance that simmers with longing, laughter, and second chances. When Wren Baldwin’s high-end life quite literally breaks down in the form of a Maserati on the fritz, she finds herself stuck in a dusty Texas town—and in the path of one very complicated, very irresistible mechanic.

Hudson Bass is gruff, guarded, and grappling with a storm of legal and emotional baggage. Fixing cars is easy. Fixing his heart? Not so much. But Wren—sharp, hurting, running—upends his hard-earned isolation in all the best and worst ways.

Liberty Stowe has a gift for writing chemistry that crackles. The banter is playful and whip-smart, and the tension between Wren and Hud is downright combustible. But it’s the emotional depth that elevates this book—grief, guilt, and the quiet ache of wanting something that feels just out of reach. Both characters are a little broken, but Stowe never treats them like they need saving—just someone to see them clearly.

With a rich cast of small-town characters (including the flirtiest group chat ever), vivid sensory details (bacon! meringue! engine grease!), and a love story that earns every sigh and swoon, Steady Now is a low-key banger of a romance—equal parts sexy and sincere.

If you love forced proximity, big-hearted small towns, and grumpy-meets-glam sparks that fly from the first chapter, park your heart right here.

I loved the town of Vogel Springs! While I don't always go for insta-love, Wren and Hud and immediate, believable chemistry and I enjoyed watching their relationship develop as they got to know one another. I also liked that they both had some baggage, but we uncovered pieces of it throughout the book as the story played out instead of it being dropped on us. The side characters really rounded out the story too. A great, charming (but spicy) small town romance for summer!

ARC review of Steady Now
Pub date: 01 August 2025

4/5 ⭐️
3/5 🌶️

My first from the author! There is so much sweetness in this debut story. A small town romance with found family elements, lots of history, and loyal friendships.

Wren and Hud had chemistry from the start and boy I loved the teasing. Both wanted each other and tried to fight it and I was so ready when they finally gave in 😗 Beautiful!

The story kept me engaged and I was rooting for everything to work out because PLEASE I needed Wren and Hud. TOGETHER.

Thank you to the author, Liberty Stowe, and NetGalley for this eARC. All opinions in this review are my own.

ISweet sizzling small town romance about Wren who is trying to forget her ex and choice he made and her father that thinks he knows what's best for her when her car breaks down on the way see a friend and she meets Hud the mechanic who is fixing her car and is fighting to keep from losing what is his.
I loved everything in this story from the characters that I instantly loved to the plot that was kept me wanting more to the small town setting that i wanted to visit myself from the first page

Love a good debut novel! This was a fun, angsty contemporary romance that I really enjoyed, and the spicy parts were on fire.

***Small town Texas romance
***Cowboy lovin
***Single Dad
***Opposites attract
***A hot tractor scene

A great story of love and healing; def perfect for any romance reader!

Thank you to RupertBossier Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC of this novel; all opinions are my own. #CampNetGalley

This a new author to me and I thoroughly enjoyed Wren & Hudson’s story.

Although there was an element of insta-lust, I really liked how it took time for some foundation of a relationship to build.

It had an amazing blend of small town charm and romance, which I always love in a book.

The little parts of information woven through the story relating to each of the characters kept me intrigued.

A really enjoyable read and I will be sure to keep and eye out for the authors next book.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read this arc, I am incredibly grateful💕

A small Texas town. A woman on the run...in a Maserati. A local mechanic with troubles of his own. A devious ex. A big-hearted cafe owner. Two best friends (his and hers) determined to steer our couple to a hard-earned happy ending. And just why is she running?

I was immediately intrigued and eager to dive into this debut by Liberty Stowe. I'm happy to say that, for the most part, it lived up to my expectations. It's an instant-attraction, slow-burn, opposites-attract romance between Wren and Hud that reeled me in pretty much from the get-go. I liked that the author hit that attraction hard then backed off (for reasons), giving the characters more time to both establish feelings and address obstacles. While I would have enjoyed more depth and communication between Hud and Wren, I felt their chemistry and was still invested in them both as individuals and as a couple.

The supporting cast adds a lot to the story in both positive and negative ways. I especially enjoyed Wren's best friend, Anderson and Hud's best friend, Cal. I have my fingers crossed that Steady Now will turn into a series because I'd sure like to see more of those two. Young Connor is a character who captured my heart. Stowe really brought him to life in an age appropriate way. Hud's ex is a piece of work who is brought to life so vividly that you do not want to know what I wanted to do to her. Needless to say, she elicits a lot of emotions.

One aspect of the story that fell a bit short for me was the relationship between Wren and her father. For all that his actions played a part in the decisions that had her ending up in Vogel Springs, I would have liked seeing more development of their relationship. Also, the final pages seemed rushed. Considering all Wren and Hud had been through, the abrupt conclusion left me wanting. While they are definitely together, it felt more like a "to be continued" (we'll secure their happy ending in the next book) than a "wrapped up with a bow HEA" (this is a standalone-time to say goodbye to these characters). I haven't seen anything about this being a series starter but my fingers are crossed.

All in all, Steady Now is a solid debut contemporary romance with a lot to recommend it. I'm definitely interested in seeing what Liberty Stowe brings readers next, especially if it takes us back to Vogel Springs.

ARC received from NetGalley
Fair and unbiased review

When I picked up this book for the Camp NetGalley Challenge, I was intrigued by the premise—but wow, this story was so much more than I expected.

Does it feel like you’ve landed in the middle of a Hallmark movie… with just the right amount of spiciness thrown in? YES. Does Vogel Springs give off total Stars Hollow vibes? Also yes.

I think this might just be my favorite romance of the year. A sparkling gem in the middle of the hot summer.

Let’s start with the chemistry between Wren and Hud—holy smokes! 🔥 And I don’t just mean the intimate scenes. It’s in every look, every conversation, every interaction. The tension between them? My Kindle was about to burst into flames.

But what really sets this book apart is the layered plot (which I won’t spoil—trust me, go in blind) and the amazing cast of characters. Hello, Anderson—can I get a friend like that?

This is the kind of debut authors dream about. And honestly, I’m crossing my fingers for more stories set in Vogel Springs because the town itself feels like a character—and I’m not ready to leave.

I’m giving this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 out of 5, because the romance was instantaneous, which I don’t normally love in a book—but everything else was just so good!

Thank you NetGalley, Liberty Stowe and @rupertbossier for the ARC of this book!

This small-town romance was a lot of fun to read. I adored the relationship between Hud and Wren, and the characters were well-developed. It was genuinely amazing to see how both of them—so different but so similar in their fears—learned to trust again. This book was amazing.

Wren and Hud are definitely opposites however actually have a lot in common which makes them great for each other and had me excited to see where things go. Once we add in the towns folk because seriously who doesn't love a small town that's in everyone's business lol and make it a slow burn I was hooked. This was a great read and can not wait to read more books by this author!

This story kept me coming back for more. I wanted to know what was going on with these characters from the beginning. Hud and Wren had me hooked. The author developed these characters and their friends beautifully. The way the "secrets" or "mystery" was uncovered was just as special. It was beautiful. For me, hopeless romantic that I am, I expected more. I felt like I had the best candy covered ice cream cone and just as I was getting to the waffle cone bite, it gets snatched away. I wanted more.

Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read this advanced copy of Steady Now for an honest review. I literally couldn’t put this book down. Ms Stowe had me hooked from the start with the Mazarati versus Mazda and AAA conversation. I knew I was going to be thoroughly entertained by Hud and Wren as their forced proximity turned into something much deeper. And only in Texas could something this accidental turn into a huge win for a small town hero! Kudos to all the characters for exemplifying the true values of friendship, love and support for each other throughout the entire book. I am recommending this to all my friends.

Okay, Steady Now completely surprised me in the best way. Liberty Stowe’s writing is intimate and emotional—like a friend quietly telling you a secret. Wren, a runaway in a Maserati, and Hud, the town’s emotionally constipated mechanic, had me hooked from the start. Their chemistry? Slow burn and totally worth it.

The small-town setting, lovable side characters, and just the right amount of spice (3.5/5) made this the perfect summer read. Yes, there’s a bit of miscommunication drama, and the middle dragged slightly, but the heart and payoff made up for it.

I love a small-town romance, and this one? Loved it. Hud and Wren, you’ve got my heart.

Rating: 4 stars
Thanks to NetGalley and RupertBossier for the ARC!

I loved this book so much! It had a lot of romance tropes I love and executed everything perfectly. The small town vibes were fantastic and I felt it both in the setting and how the characters talked and interacted. I quickly fell in love with all of the characters. Not just the two MCs but also the supporting characters. (I’m really hoping this is the start of a series because I NEED a Cal and Anderson book).

The two main characters though, WOW! The slow burn was PERFECT. I was eating up all the tension and yearning. I never got the feeling that it was dragging and the pay off was definitely worth it. My one critique is that the writing at times felt a little jumpy. A little more fluidity between scenes would have helped the readability.

Overall though, I loved this and immediately wanted to start it over the moment I finished. I’ll be keeping my eyes peeled for the next thing this author comes out with!

This book was such an easy, enjoyable read in the best way possible. From the very beginning, I was hooked by the characters and their stories. I couldn’t stop turning the pages, eager to uncover the pasts of Wren and Hudson and see where their journey would lead.

The small-town setting gave off serious Gilmore Girls vibes, with a tight-knit community where everyone knows everyone’s business in the most charming way. If you’re a fan of dual pining and steamy romance, this one checks all the boxes.

Wren and Hudson’s chemistry was undeniable, and I loved watching their relationship unfold. The plot twist caught me by surprise in the best way, and the character development throughout was spot-on. Every side character added something special to the story, and I found myself wanting spin-offs for a few of them!

This was such a fun, heartwarming read that is perfect for summer. I truly couldn’t put it down, and I’m already hoping the author returns to this world with more stories.

An advance copy was kindly provided by NetGalley and the publisher; all opinions are my own.

Wren Baldwin is running away from the disaster that her life has become. Driving through the backroads of Texas, her fancy car breaks down. There is only one mechanic that is close by, luckily he is nice to look at.

When Wren's sports car is towed into Hud's shop, he can't help but wonder what a rich girl like her is doing in Vogel Springs. He just wishes that she would stay to see if anything would come of their attraction.

As Wren realizes that Vogel Springs feels like the home she has never had and her best friend decides to buy an old Victorian house and turn it into a Bed and Breakfast. She starts to wonder if she really could stay here.

A great story with wonderful characters and a great plot! I look forward to reading more from this author. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for my honest opinion.

This was a great book!! The premise and the love story of it was one of the best ones I have read this month !! Would recommend this book!

Oh my goodness! This was an absolute dream of a novel! If you want to fall in love with both the characters and the storyline, this is the novel for you! I couldn’t put it down!

This was a captivating romance. I was drawn into the story right away. Wren Baldwin 's Masarati breaks down outside of Vogel Falls, Texas. She is towed to Bass Pit Stop, where she meets the owner, Hudson Bass or Hud, as he is called. Wren and Hud are attracted to each other, but each have personal problems that they have to deal with. Will Wren and Hud get together? Find out by reading this unforgettable book, which I highly recommend to other romance readers. I received an ARC of this book, and the opinion expressed is strictly my own.

A well written story that kept me hooked from the very beginning.
The characters draw you in and keeps you flipping the pages.
They are realistic and very well developed.
I really enjoyed the writing style. I found myself hooked, turning the pages.

I enjoyed Wren and Hudson’s banter throughout the book. I wish there was more to their story. I feel like an epilogue would have been nice to have since I feel like they had a slightly unfinished story. But the ending did not take away from the book as a whole. I loved Anderson, Wrens best friend, and Cal, Hudson’s best friend. Anderson and Cal were both great additions to the story and I would love to see more of their story in a future book.

A lovely slow burn, small town romance! This was definitely an opposites attraction situation, but I loved watching the connection between Wren and Hud grow! And the chemistry picked up a lot, and really sizzled!

I also loved the side characters, especially Anderson and Connor - some great banter!

This was a great debut novel from Liberty Stowe! Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy!

Rating ⭐️: 4.25/5
Spice 🌶️: 2.75-3/5
Expected Release Date:August 1st 2025

I genuinely loved this book. After being stuck in a major reading slump for the past few months, I was completely pulled in from the very first chapter.The characters immediately grabbed my attention. Wren's personality was absolutely captivating. She is THAT girl. Honestly, she might be one of my favorite characters I’ve ever read. There was also some comedic elements which I really enjoyed. The author did an amazing job portraying Wren’s growth, right down to the subtle detail of her hair changing between the city and the small town. I do think there was a little bit less character development for Hud then there was for Wren but I still feel like I got to know Hud really well.

The author’s writing style was incredibly captivating. She did a great job making the storyline flow smoothly. The reason I gave it a 4.25 rating instead of something higher is because there were a few different plot lines, and since the book was on the shorter side, I found myself wanting more development in certain areas. While epilogues can be hit or miss, I really wish this book had one. I am excited to read more books by this author and hopefully this world continues to expand. Maybe there will be an Anderson book someday?

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review

Small town slow burn romance? Yes please. When you feel the emotions of the characters from the very start, you know you're in for a good book. This is the first time I've read something by Liberty Stowe and I would say I would look forward to reading another book. This is a wonderful debut novel and i've read a lot of romance in the last year or so. I'd definitely get a hard copy to read it again.

Thank you, NetGalley and Liberty Stowe for this ARC. I truly enjoyed this opposites attract story between Wren and Hudson. I felt these two characters immediately their connection was spot on and I loved how Hudson was able to fix cars, but he couldn’t fix himself.. I love a small town romance and this story delivered. I will definitely be reading more from this author.! I would recommend this book!!

I am simply blown away. At face value you might be tempted to think this is “just” a sweet small-town romance, and though there’s nothing wrong with those wonderful stories, this is something totally different. Wren and Hud, they are something so very special.

The love story here is incredible, but even more than that, the realness of these characters is fascinating. There is so much depth and reality woven into this small town story.

I found myself kicking my feet with excitement as the story unfolded.

Even the side characters are incredibly well thought out. The best friends, the tow truck driver, the town nemesis- you feel like they are all so real.

From the cafe owner to the local woman that might as well be everyone’s aunt, Vogel Springs brings you inside from the cold and gives you a big, strong hug and an even stronger cup of coffee!

I hope there’s more to this story because I need more of Vogel Springs!

Okay, Vogel Springs has officially been added to my list of small towns I wish were real—because I’d move there yesterday.

This book gave all the cozy, sizzling small-town romance vibes I love. There’s something about bacon frying, flirty banter at a diner, and broken-down luxury cars that just works. And don’t even get me started on the tractor emoji invitation—I snorted. It was so unexpected and so perfect.

Wren is that complicated, on-the-run-but-not-really heroine I adore. She's sharp, closed off, but her heart is right there, just waiting to be seen. And Hud? Big, broody mechanic energy with more emotional baggage than a Delta carousel. But the man is gold underneath it. Fixes cars, but clearly doesn’t know what to do with a woman like Wren—until he does, and whew, y’all. He does.

Their chemistry? Electric. Their connection? Instant, but believable. I loved that the romance had room to breathe—it wasn’t rushed, even if the attraction was. And while Hud’s internal struggle had me wanting to shake him a few times, it felt real. Their love story was messy, warm, and full of those small moments that sneak up on you.

I enjoyed it. I liked the cover, it drew me to choose this story. It was a quick read. I will definitely purchase for my shelf.

I LOVED this book!

Steady Now is an adventurous, sexy, exciting love story set in Texas. The small town vibes, love at first sight, and the fight for someone and something you love all come together in a perfect way.

The way the setting was written made it really easy to picture the small town of Vogel Springs and the Vogel House property. It almost felt like the town was a character itself.

The love and chemistry between Wren and Hud was perfection, and the big conflict in the second part of the book (I'm trying not to have any spoilers) was not only exciting and had me not wanting to put the story down, but also showed how much they love each other.

I really, really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to re-reading or listening to it on audiobook.

Really enjoyed this visit into the world of Vogel Springs 🤍
This book was an easy read, enjoyable, and it was quite impressive for a debut novel.
Loved the romance, and the way the story all played out.
I also enjoyed the small town hard working dad aspect (Hud) and Wren the FMC was adorable.
Def had some 🌶️ after around the 50% mark (that tractor scene 🔥) but it didn’t saturate the book too much which I appreciate.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this early. Would def read more from this author in the future 🤍

Steady Now is a small town romance that takes place in Vogel Springs. The story is engaging and the characters are so well crafted and written. Wren stumbles upon the small town when her car breaks down and only place that has a mechanic close enough to her location is Vogel Springs. Hud has lived in Vogel Springs his whole life and under the gruff no nonsense exterior is the man who people love and care about. What was supposed to be a quick(ish) repair takes longer and soon Wren is finding more about the town of Vogel Springs and Hud.

It’s rare for me to not get irritated by small town romances despite enjoying them but this one definitely hits the spot. I loved this because regardless of how small Vogel Springs is and how tight-knit the community is, everyone still just does their thing. No one is unnecessarily pushy or nosy and the care the community has for one another is evident. Wren and Hud’s evolution is so beautiful and fun to read. The presence and influence they have in each other’s lives is just what the other needs.

If you want a sweet small town romance with the most wonderful group of found family then I highly recommend this one. I didn’t think I’d be adding to the book boyfriend list but…here we are.

Thank you to NetGalley and Liberty Stowe for the gifted ARC! All opinions are my own.

If you ever thought, 'You know what, the Pixar movie Cars should have humans and also sex in it', then this is the book for you!
In all seriousness - this was a really good Contemporary Romance read, featuring a lovely couple plus a fantastic ensemble of supporting characters.

Smoking Hot FMC Wren's Smoking Hot car breaks down in bumfuck-nowhere Texas (seriously, there's not even a motel in town). Of course, there's only 1 mechanic - local Hud Bass - around, and of course he's also Smoking Hot.
Wren's got a past she's running from, and Hud's fighting The Man trying to take his land plus his Ex trying to take his kid.

On the face of it, this could have been a very one-dimensional and cliche book, but Liberty Stowe has given it heart!

* Hud is absolutely the kind of MMC all other MMCs should be jealous of - he's such a Fixer even when things are going poorly for him, it's great.
* Wren's backstory is hinted at throughout, and I confess that I did find it quite a letdown when her history was revealed.
* And the spotify playlist at the beginning of this book? Do yourself a favour and pop it on in the background while you read! I did, and it helped me sink deep into the country roots of this romance tale.

In terms of categorising the story: I personally wouldn't call this a slow burn (medium burn, maybe?), but it's definitely something along the lines of enemies-to-lovers. There's miscommunication as a plot point, which I'm not a fan of, but in the end Healthy Adult Communication is achieved.

Many thanks to NetGalley, RupertBossier, and the Camp NetGalley event for the opportunity to read something a little outside of my usual sphere; it was a real treat! That said, I'm not ever going to be able to look at a tractor in the same way again...

Virgin River takes on small town Texas! When Wren’s Maserati broke down in middle of nowhere Vogel Springs, she had no idea love was in the air. Enters Hud, the town’s hunky mechanic.
This is a slow burn romance but boy oh boy does it get spicy! If you love a cozy romance with a little bit of drama, you will fall in love with charming Vogel Springs and its cast of tight knit characters. I’m rooting for part 2 of Wren and Hud’s story in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley and RupertBossier for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I Absolutely love small town romances and this one didnt disappoint 🥰 I loved the spice and the way the author portrayed the emotions with words. 💕 I felt everything. 🥹

I loved everything about this book. The small town romance, the tension, Wren and Hud's stories and how they collide. I really enjoyed Wren's character strengthening throughout this book, and Hud is such a sweet heart with a fiery side. It was a fall-fast type of romance but with so much more to the story as you continue reading, so much background to each of them. But it made it all the better for when the love truly hit.
The author did a great job with immersing you into this small town, and made you love it and the characters as you read. It will give you all of the emotions while reading, so buckle up!
I did wish it didn't end so abruptly without an epilogue, but it was such a fantastic book with the story coming full circle!

Tropes:
-grumpy sunshine
-instalust
-small town romance
-forced proximity
-single dad
-mmc and fmc in late 20s/early 30s

From the beginning of this book, I was hooked on my flighty girl, Wren & the quick witted, Hudson . The first moment that Wren & Hud met, you could feel the chemistry and spark between them. This small town story was the perfect summer read!

Within the story, we see how the two deal with their own personal hurdles, curve balls life threw, and the way they work together to overcome their fears together.

The growth they both made within themselves and with each other despite all the small town drama of Vogel Springs and obstacles thrown at them was a beautiful transition from the start to the end the story.

Steady Now was packed with lots of charm, laughter, wit, and romance. Definitely added some heat to the summer!

Thank you Netgalley for the Arc of Steady Now

Steady Now was such a fun read! It was sweet, funny, and inspiring. I loved Wren Baldwin and her passion for life. She is a force to be reckoned with and incredibly bubbly and kind with everyone she meets. Honestly, even when she is stressed and unsure, she is a kinder than I would be! And, I am obsessed with Hudson "Hud" Bass! He is everyone go to guy. There to help anyone and everyone... but something about Wren... She just gets under his skin! Their relationship is definitely a little stop and go at first despite their evident attraction.
Knowing the full story, Its hard to not want to write spoilers! I looooved the stained glass moment and the "tractor rides" - wink wink.
Overall, I think Liberty's debut romance was a great read and I so can't wait to read more of her work!

“Steady Now” by Liberty Stowe, was a meet cute. I like the storylines. I liked Hud’s character. I liked the conflict over the land and also with his son. I flew through this sexy story! I can’t wait for more of Stowe’s books to come out.

Absolutely adored this book - wasn’t sure what to expect if I’m honest but I was blown away
Small town romance with the most lovable characters ever.
Great story and world building - I literally want to move their myself haha!
I truly hope there’s more to come!

received this book from NetGalley for a review so Thank You NetGalley!

What can I say but this is the perfect Big City girl meets Small Town guy! The character development was great and I loved both the FMC and the MMC. I was routing for them the whole time. There was just a little spice without being too spicy (as if that is a thing).

Both Wren and Hud show what it’s like to truly love someone, sacrifice for the ones they love and how to love again after being hurt.

What a cute story!!! Sometime you just read something that hits all the good parts and makes you feel good after reading it. This book make me smile, tear up and laugh out loud in spots. Wren breaks down outside of a town called Vogel Springs and immediately connects with the mechanic, Hud. The whole town is quaint and instantly lovable. Wren's best friend then comes into town like a tornado and just adds to the whole scene, instantly likable and perfect for this story. I hope this author does more stories set in this town with the same characters. If you want a feel good book with some tense moments, this is the book to get. A great summer read.

Thank you NetGalley for an ARC in return for an honest review.

While I was away on vacation I finished Steady Now. Thank you to netgalley and rupertbossier for sending me this read it really hit the spot! This one was a dual pov and a small town romance which I loved!

I really enjoyed the connection between the characters in book and I found it to be an addicting read. I thought this one was such a fun summer time small town romance! Banter in this one was really great as well, I almost wish it was an even more slower burn but i loved it all. I had a great time with this book.

Hud is fighting for what he loves most while Wren is running from those who are supposed to love her most. This book has tension, banter, found family, and forced proximity. Loved it!!

Such a cute and nostalgic story! This is a great feel-good small town romance! I finished this in 1 day! We have strangers-to- lovers, single dad, city girl small town life, slow burn, sarcastic tension filled banter, and more🤭 This is perfect for a quick summer read! Looking forward to reading more by Liberty Stowe!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Steady Now is a charming, sexy, small-town romance that blends heartfelt emotion with sizzling chemistry. Liberty Stowe drops us right into Vogel Springs, a town so vividly drawn you can practically smell the bacon frying and feel the warmth of its quirky charm.

Wren and Hudson’s story is full of tension, vulnerability, and heat. Wren, running from a life that no longer fits her, and Hudson, weighed down by his past and an impending legal battle, are both broken in their own ways. Their attraction is immediate and undeniable, but what makes this story shine is the tenderness woven between the sparks—the stolen glances, the small-town moments, and the push-pull of two people who know their time might be fleeting.

This is more than a romance—it’s a story about finding connection when you least expect it, about second chances, and about the healing power of love (and maybe a little bit of small-town magic).

If you enjoy emotional small-town romances with heat, heart, and characters who feel real and raw, Steady Now will absolutely pull you in.

I really enjoyed this authors writing style it was easy to get into. The chaos of the FMC is so relatable and loved her inner conversations she had. The side characters are so charming. I enjoyed the descriptions of the town, the story had a good plot. It was very well done. I enjoyed it very much thank you so much for this ARC!

This was an enjoyable debut novel by Liberty Stowe. I love a book set in a quaint small town with generally good people. The good characters were likeable, and the "villains" were easy to dislike in this opposites attract, insta-love romcom. The spice level is high, but I did appreciate that the author included trigger warnings. I would have enjoyed an epilogue to follow, but that isn't a deal breaker for me. I expect bigger and better things from this new author.
Thank you, NetGalley and Rupert Bosier, for the ARC and opportunity to provide an honest review.

This book was absolutely amazing! Y’all know I love me a good small-town romance, and Steady Now gave me everything—close proximity, slow burn, and banter that was 100% worth the wait. 🥰

Wren and Hud’s story had me hooked. I’m a sucker for a friendship-to-lovers arc, and the way their relationship shifted from comfort to angst to something deeper was just chef’s kiss. The tension, the longing, the “will-they-won’t-they” moments—it was all there.

And don’t even get me started on Vogel Springs, TX. Liberty Stowe wrote this little town so well that I legit wanted to pack my bags and move there. The charm, the community, the cozy small-town feel—it became its own character in the story.

Since this is my first read from Liberty Stowe, I’m officially a fan. Her writing style pulled me right in, and I cannot wait to see what she does next. If you’re looking for a heartfelt, slow-burn romance that will make you swoon and smile, go ahead and add Steady Now to your TBR. 💕

✨ Thanks to NetGalley and Rupert Bossier for the eARC!

Review: Steady Now
by Liberty Stowe
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Steady Now is an absolute gem. Liberty Stowe delivers a beautifully written story that is equal parts tender, emotional, and empowering. From the first chapter, I was swept into the characters’ world and found myself deeply invested in their journeys.

The pacing is perfect, the relationships feel authentic, and the emotional depth makes this one stand out. It’s the kind of book that lingers with you long after you finish, both comforting and thought-provoking at the same time.

A five-star read that I will be recommending often!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This book was such a good read. I absolutely loved it. It was such a good pace, characters where great, the story line itself was absolutely amazing. Story about growth, being steady, being what the other person needed, not giving up on then, I really enjoy this book. Its definitely on my top favorites.