Hit the Ground by: Julia Wolf(Audio Review)

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.


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Julia Wolf has a remarkable ability to pivot between subgenres without ever missing the mark, and Hit the Ground is a resounding testament to that. This story is as delightful and comforting as a well-worn flannel, delivering a charming Western small-town atmosphere and an agonizingly delicious slow burn. Set in the living, breathing community of Sugar Brush, Wyoming, the narrative follows Alice, a shy librarian and waitress, and Caleb Kelly, a protective single-dad rancher. Alice has spent four years harboring a quiet, unrequited crush on Caleb, watching him from afar until a single reckless kiss changes the trajectory of their lives.

Book Description


Caleb Kelly has been my secret weakness since the day I moved to Sugar Brush, Wyoming.

I spend my days among the stacks as the town’s librarian and my nights serving drinks at Joy’s Elbow Room. It’s safe, predictable, and a little boring. The only thing that makes my pulse kick is when Caleb Kelly walks through the door and takes a seat at one of my tables.

Four years of stolen glances, watching him laugh with his family, listening to him talk about his son, and pretending he doesn’t unravel me just by saying my name. Alice.

Then one reckless night, I steal a kiss. And for one perfect, heart-stopping second, he kisses me back.

But the thing is, Caleb doesn’t date. He has his son, his ranch, and no room for anything—or anyone—else.

So I finally stop waiting, stop hoping, stop hiding. It’s way past time to begin living my life on my own terms.

Just as I start to move forward, trouble knocks me back. And when I need someone the most, Caleb is the one by my side again and again, standing between me and the worst of it. His steady, fierce presence is impossible to ignore.

I should know better than to keep falling for a man who told me he can’t give me more. I should walk away before I get hurt again.

It’s just that every time he shows up, every time he really sees me, every time he stays, my heart refuses to listen.

But letting him in might be the one thing I can’t come back from.

About Julia Wolf


Julia Wolf writes sexy rockers, grumpy billionaires, snarky heroines, and bad ass women. She’s a firm believer in happily ever afters, no matter how rocky the road is to get there.

She doesn’t believe in “guilty pleasures”, only pleasure. Reading about a plus size woman who gets absolutely railed by a hot rock star is pleasure. Reading about a damaged college student whose flaws are valued and loved by the grumpy guy next door is pleasure. Reading about love in a small town or big city or on a tour bus is pleasure. Reading romance is pleasure!

Julia lives in Maryland with her husband and three crazy, beautiful children. When she’s not writing romance, she’s reading it. Some of her favorite things are, in no particular order: goats, books, coffee, and Target.

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My Thoughts


Julia Wolf has a remarkable ability to pivot between subgenres without ever missing the mark, and Hit the Ground is a resounding testament to that. This story is as delightful and comforting as a well-worn flannel, delivering a charming Western small-town atmosphere and an agonizingly delicious slow burn. Set in the living, breathing community of Sugar Brush, Wyoming, the narrative follows Alice, a shy librarian and waitress, and Caleb Kelly, a protective single-dad rancher. Alice has spent four years harboring a quiet, unrequited crush on Caleb, watching him from afar until a single reckless kiss changes the trajectory of their lives.

What makes this romance so satisfying is that it unfolds over a thousand little seconds and small, intimate actions. Following a rejection that pushes Alice to stop pining and start living on her own terms, the two navigate a transition from awkward distance to a deep, foundational friendship. Caleb is the epitome of a relatable alpha—stubborn and focused on his responsibilities—while Alice’s journey from feeling invisible to demanding her own happy ending is incredibly rewarding. Her growth is particularly poignant as she stops waiting for life to happen and begins to hold her ground, even when Caleb finally opens his eyes to what has been in front of him all along.

A standout element of this book is Jesse, Caleb’s teenage son. Rather than being a mere plot device, Jesse has total main-character energy and a unique bond with Alice through their shared time at the library. His presence feels integral to the romance, shaping the story and Caleb’s motivations in a way that feels organic rather than forced. The supporting cast adds a rich "found family" dynamic that fans of the Kelly Ranch and Savage U series will appreciate, including some surprising cameos that are sure to elicit a gasp from loyal readers. Sugar Brush itself feels like a place you could actually visit, from the family dinners at the ranch to the dance floor at Joy’s Elbow Room.

While I had minor personal quips with some of the nicknames and wished for a bit more development in the side plots, the emotional core of the book is flawless. It is a sweet, quiet romance that shines through its genuine characters and the power of truly being seen by the person you love. The audiobook further elevates the experience, with Emma Wilder and Sean Masters delivering exactly the kind of nuanced, soulful performances these characters deserve. If you’re looking for a first-rate read that leaves your heart full, this should be at the very top of your list.

Other books I've read by Julia Wolf HERE!!!


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