Heartless by Elsie Silver is the second book in the Chestnut Springs series, and it focuses on Cade Eaton, a tough cowboy and single father, and Willa Grant, the free-spirited, explosive babysitter he hires to help him with his son. I knew from the start that I was getting into a grumpy x sunshine story, with doses of single dad romance, and although it wasn’t one of the books that completely thrilled me, I enjoyed reading it. Maybe it’s because so many books with this trope have come out so close together that I felt like I was reading the same story over and over again.

Cade is one of those characters who finds it hard to open up. He has wounds, he’s responsible, and he seems to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders. On the other hand, Willa is the complete opposite: relaxed, spontaneous, full of energy, and with a sense of humor that constantly tries to "break" him. Their chemistry is immediate, and the tension between them is definitely enjoyable. Especially the moments when Willa pushes Cade to his limits in a playful yet tender way.

Nevertheless, I felt that at some points the story was predictable. It didn’t particularly surprise me with its plot or the development of their relationship. There were quite a few clichés, which I don’t always mind, as long as they have a twist or evoke strong emotions in me.

What I did like, though, was the sense of "family" the book exudes. Cade’s relationship with his son, who is an absolute highlight, adds emotion and realism to the story. Also, Willa won me over much more than Cade because she was dynamic, lively, and didn’t hesitate to say what she thought, which offered a nice balance to the narrative.

Elsie Silver’s writing is definitely pleasant and keeps you engaged. It was a book I read quickly, without feeling bored, it just didn’t touch me as much as I expected. It wasn’t one of those romances that made me close the book saying “may this love find me,” but it definitely left me with a sweet feeling.

Overall, Heartless was a relaxed, enjoyable read. It didn’t make it into my favorite stories, but it’s a feel-good romance with a little spice and plenty of tenderness.

Without Heart is the second book in the Chestnut Springs series and, although the premise had potential, personally, it didn't excite me as much as I expected. The idea of the young nanny living for a summer in the home of a grumpy cowboy and gradually sparking a relationship between them is romantically familiar – however, the execution here didn't resonate with me.

The chemistry between Willa and Cade didn't feel natural or convincing enough. While he is presented as tough on the outside and sensitive on the inside, I didn't feel that the transition from "distant father" to "tender partner" was built meaningfully. Some plot points, like the scene in the jacuzzi, felt more like fan service than part of a realistic narrative.

Willa had moments where she seemed to have personality, but I felt that often her role was limited to "softening" Cade, without really developing as a character on her own.

Overall, if you love age-gap romances and want something light with enough spicy moments, it might suit you. For me, though, it lacked the intensity or emotional depth that I need from a romance to truly love it.

•Type: Romantic contemporary adult
•Tropes: Small town, age difference, single dad
•Pages: 397
•Series: Chestnut Springs #2
•Spice: 3/5

Favorite Quote?
“You want more. You deserve more. And I’ll give it to you.” - Cade

Cade is a single dad and needs a nanny for his son. Willa comes to save the day. With her explosive personality and unfiltered mouth, she will burst into Cade's life and turn it upside down.
Did dad Cade find a nanny for his son or another child to take care of?

A funny and enjoyable romantic story set in a small rural town, perfectly capturing the atmosphere and warmth.

The characters have great chemistry with each other. Cade is the perfect grumpy dad, and Willa is the whirlwind who will stir him up until he kneels at her feet… oops

The way the father-son relationship is portrayed is very beautiful, and the love Willa gives to Cade's little boy is adorable. I melt at things like this.

Daddy Cade is A-B-S-O-L-U-T-E-L-Y A-M-A-Z-I-N-G ?
and I really like that we see characters from the previous book in the series and new ones we haven't seen before. It also drops a lot of hints for the next book.

Overall, it was a very enjoyable and easy-to-read book that I truly didn’t realize I finished, and I laughed at several parts.

Finally, a rom-com with the right pages!!!!

I think some things happened too quickly in this book, and in other parts, we dragged on without reason.

I recommend it to anyone looking for a light read to relax in the rhythms of a picturesque countryside with cozy vibes.

WARNING
I recommend it for ages 18 and over as it contains several intimate scenes.

The 1st book of the spicy series Chestnut Springs follows the Eaton brothers, rebellious cowboys in this small town and their girls.

As the first book and short as it is just over 300 pages, we follow the story of Rhett and Summer. 32-year-old Rhett is a rodeo champion, the youngest Eaton brother who is always scheming, getting into trouble, ignoring rules and consequences. 25-year-old Summer is the composed law school graduate who works hard to prove her worth and make those around her happy, especially her father due to her past. After a fateful mistake for the Eaton's career, Kip, Summer's father, assigns her the role of agent to look after him for the season. Or rather, as a nanny! The two are incompatible with each other, and everything seems to not work except for the inexplicable attraction they feel for one another. However, there are rules, and they must be followed.

The book, although short, I will be honest, was quite a struggle for me at first. Perhaps because I was eagerly waiting for it to be translated. I had very high expectations, I think, and that's why I found it difficult to get into the mood as I felt like I was reading about a 32-year-old man who needed to be babysat by a 25-year-old? and was just doing silly things. But as the pages progressed, it got better, and I liked it. Maybe I wasn't in the mood when I picked it up, but along the way, it turned out to be a good love story. I am eagerly waiting for the 2nd one!!