Rating: 4.5đ
Lane Hayes has written narrative gold with her Vermont based Four Forest townâs universe, and Iâm not talking maple syrup, although I wonât be surprised if this factors in eventually.
First off, there was the 6 book fabulous series, The Elmwood Stories, which was written about NHL hockey players who found themselves in the small town of Elmwood, where they found love, happiness and established a hockey base for kids and players for the summer. It built slowly but surely over 6 novels and we started meeting people outside of town, including those from Wood Hollow, and the mill.
Well, itâs Wood Hollowâs time! The town has begun its own restoration and become a great charming place to live, with the millâs prosperity being a huge part of this.
Silas, a veteran NFL player who has come to the end of his career, is facing a difficult time in his life. Divorced, a career that has ended, and no idea how to go forward, the pressure sends him to his friendâs rental property in Wood Hollow, Vermont, for a break.
His next door neighbor is Cooper, who is a bisexual divorced father of two children, and the manager of the Wood Hollow lumber mill. Cooper is a hometown man, who loves his community and his family. And isnât prepared for the handsome football player he rescues from a snowstorm.
This Guy is an excellent romance and start into a new series in this universe. The men are relatable, their struggles are written in a way that makes them feel real and understandable. The pressures each of them are facing, whether itâs Silas from his ex-wifeâs new publicity with her own relationship or, perhaps even more realistic, Cooperâs personal struggles with his dynamics with his ex-wife and the way they both feel about their separation from their children.
Hereâs what I find so well written by Hayes. Thereâs no demonizing of anyoneâs exâs here. Any potential for a traumatic event? Itâs handled by communication, like adults, without involving the children. Thank you. Same goes for Silas and his ex wife. They remain friends and understand why they didnât work out as marriage partners.
I know I shouldnât have to point this out, but honestly, itâs rare enough that I see it in my stories that I point it out when I see it.
The children are beautifully animated and feel true to their ages. Adore them.
That dramatic moment? Fabulous! Heartwarming and perfect for the couple and as a family we have come to love.
I canât wait for the next story to come out. I love this entire world that Hayes is creating!
Highly recommended!
Cover Design by Sleepy Fox Studio
Four Forest towns of Vermont Universe – see note below
The Elmwood Stories (6 book series)- I love this series â¤ď¸ it mentions the lumber mill and introduces the Four Forest towns. Itâs hockey meets Vermont small town â¤ď¸.
Wood Hollow Series:
This Guy #1
Sweet Something #2 – TBR summer 2026
Four Forest area of Vermont are : Wood Hollow, Elmwood, Pinecrest, and Fallbrook. The Elmwood Stories â¤ď¸ series is complete
Buy link
Book 1 of 1: Wood Hollow Stories
Blurb
The football star, the lumberjack, and a small-town love storyâŚ
Silas
Not to sound dramatic, but I canât decide if Iâm a hot mess, a has-beenâŚor both.
Thereâs nothing quite like being in the spotlight at my lowest point. I could use a break from LA and my agentâjust for a little while.
But Vermont in the middle of a blizzard? Probably not a great idea. However, the sexy lumberjack who lives next door is a sweet surprise. And so are his kids and the town.
I like this place. I could be happy hereâŚat least till my new season begins.
Cooper
My time is split between work and fatherhood. Thatâs it. Boss and Dad. Maybe thatâs why the football star is a breath of fresh air. Silas is funny, charismatic, and cool.
My kids love having a celebrity living next door. And me? I canât remember the last time I felt quite so alive.
Yes, Iâm well aware this isnât going anywhere. Our worlds are just too different.
Too bad, âcause this guy feels like the real thing.
This Guy is an MM bisexual, single dad, small-town romance featuring a football hero, a sexy lumberjack, and some neighbor-friendly shenanigans.
date
March 25, 2026
Language
âEnglish
Print length
304 pages
Book 1 of 1
Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words 