If you’re looking for a small town romance packed with heartfelt emotion, undeniable chemistry, and all your favourite tropes wrapped into one, Riding the High by Paisley Hope might just be your next five star read. This latest instalment from Hope’s engaging romance series is a standout, thanks to its irresistible blend of relatable characters, emotional depth, and slow burn storytelling that pays off in a big way.
A Trope-Lover’s Dream
From the very beginning, Riding the High knows exactly what kind of book it wants to be, and it delivers. Romance lovers will appreciate the seamless way Paisley Hope weaves multiple tropes into the plot without it ever feeling crowded or contrived.
Let’s break down the key romance elements:
- Single Dad: Cole, our leading man, is not only the town sheriff but also a devoted father. His role as a single parent adds an emotional layer to his character that makes him instantly likable.
- Accidental Marriage: Yes, there’s a “how did we end up married?” moment, and it’s deliciously chaotic in the best way.
- Best Friend’s Brother: Ginger, our heroine, has known Cole through her connection with his sister, and this long-standing history adds depth to their evolving relationship.
- Friends to Lovers: There’s a steady build-up to their romantic connection. The foundation of friendship makes their eventual romance feel believable and earned.
- Forced Proximity: Circumstances (no spoilers here!) force them to spend more time together, resulting in tender moments, playful banter, and emotional revelations.
Romance readers who live for these tropes will find plenty to enjoy here. But what makes Riding the High more than just a checklist of fan-favorite themes is the genuine emotional connection between the characters.
Meet Cole and Ginger
At the heart of this story is the romantic connection between Cole, a small-town sheriff and devoted single dad, and Ginger, his sister’s best friend and long-time family friend. Their bond is the kind that simmers slowly, built on shared history, mutual respect, and honest communication.
From the very beginning, you can feel the authenticity in their relationship. It’s not just sparks and steamy tension (though there’s plenty of that, too)—it’s the everyday moments, the sweet gestures, and the way they show up for each other that really makes this love story shine.
Chemistry and Connection
One of the most compelling aspects of Riding the High is how naturally the romance develops. Cole and Ginger’s chemistry is electric, but what makes it especially impactful is how much it’s grounded in trust and open dialogue. Their banter is playful and intimate, full of wit and flirtation that never feels forced.
Ginger’s connection with Cole’s daughter, Mabel, is another highlight. It adds a layer of tenderness to the story and underscores just how deeply Ginger integrates into Cole’s world. Their interactions are heartwarming, with moments that will melt even the most hardened romance reader.
Spice and Emotion in Perfect Balance
Paisley Hope doesn’t shy away from spice, this is definitely an open door romance, but it’s all done with purpose. The steamy scenes are woven into the emotional core of the story, enhancing the depth of the characters’ relationship rather than overshadowing it.
And yes, there are emotional moments that pack a punch. Hope gives readers the ups and downs of a fully realized relationship, complete with vulnerabilities, insecurities, and growth. Even though there are a few slower sections in the middle of the book, they serve to deepen the character arcs and set up a satisfying resolution.
Why This Book Stands Out
In a genre filled with formulaic plots, Riding the High feels refreshingly authentic. It’s a story about love that grows out of friendship and familiarity, one that doesn’t rely solely on grand gestures but finds meaning in the little things, like late night chats, quiet understanding, and mutual support.
Paisley Hope has a gift for writing characters that feel real, and her portrayal of Cole and Ginger’s evolving relationship is both swoon-worthy and emotionally resonant. It’s the kind of romance that makes you believe in love that’s patient, honest, and full of depth.
Pacing & Plot: A Few Slower Moments, But Still Engaging
While the story is overall engaging and emotionally satisfying, there were a few slower sections that briefly pulled me out of the momentum. However, those moments were few and far between, and the rich character development made it easy to stay invested.
Paisley Hope’s writing is warm and easy to fall into. Her depiction of small-town life—with its cozy cafés, close-knit community, and familiar faces—adds to the immersive feel of the book.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a romance reader who loves emotionally rich, trope-heavy love stories with just the right amount of heat and heart, Riding the High deserves a spot on your TBR. Whether you’re here for the single dad vibes, the slow burn friends to lovers arc, or the added drama of an accidental marriage, this book delivers on all fronts.
While the pacing dips slightly at times, the emotional payoff and genuine connection between the leads make it more than worth the ride. This book is easily a standout in the series, and one I’ll be recommending to fellow romance fans for a long time.
Rating: 4.5/5
Where to Buy
Riding the High by Paisley Hope is available now wherever books are sold, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and your local indie bookstore.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House Australia for the ARC!
Have a look at my other book reviews here