Willow experienced all her big firsts with her high school sweetheart. Now, reeling from their very public breakup, she wants to get a re-do on those important moments. While dog-sitting for her brother during his deployment, she has a chance to start over and spending time with his best friend gives her the confidence to start checking items off her “Re-Do list.”
Deacon promised his best friend two things when Cruz left for a deployment: that he’d look out for Willow, and that he’d keep his hands off Cruz’s baby sister. “Operation Re-Do” is innocent enough at first: Deacon likes Willow and he’s willing to help her out any way he can. But when the list of firsts turns from a first dance to first kisses and more, Deacon can’t deny the connection he feels to Willow.
As Deacon’s and Willow’s firsts turn to seconds, thirds, and fourths, this pair can’t get enough of each other—and they support each other through new challenges. But they are both aware there’s an end date to Willow’s time in town… and even if she were to stay, Deacon doesn’t know how to choose between his loyalty to his closest friend and the woman he’s fallen in love with. With no more romantic moments on her list for them to re-do, can these two still find a way to stay together?
Release Date: Jan 27, 2026
Heat Level: Sensual
Publisher: Penguin Group
Imprint: Berkley
Price: $10.99
Don’t sleep on this book or anything by Denise Williams!
This is my first novel by Williams, and it won’t be my last. Besides having heroes to swoon over, Williams provided a story with humor, heart, and realistic touches, plus characters that reel you in.
Willow is the woman who went viral for all the wrong reasons… a breakup. She’s trying to start over in a different state. New town, new opportunities, and all while pet sitting for her brother, who’s deployed. Of course, said brother sends his friend and military buddy to help Willow get acclimated in this new world. But Willow doesn’t expect said friend to be attractive, friendly, and willing to help her forget said ex by making new memories re-doing all those firsts she had with the one who ditched her.
Deacon didn’t mean to get so involved with Willow. Not when he has plans to re-enlist as soon as he’s medically cleared, and when he’s not planning on sticking around. But especially because he promised his best friend, Cruz, that he wouldn’t touch his sister. Promises were made to be broken, right? Especially if Willow needs help. Besides, she’s not going to stay here forever, and neither will he.
The connection between these two is electric from the first meeting, and I loved reading how Deacon helped Willow regain her confidence. This girl was a shy, scared shell of her former self. With a little nudge and a few candid conversations, Willow takes charge using her redo list. I loved her growth and following along. Deacon has his own scars and fears he’s battling, including figuring out if he can exist without the military. Is he worth anything to anyone if he’s not active duty?
There are plenty of humorous, sexy, and emotional moments. The characters have so much depth. The pacing is spot on, and the addition of furry friends makes it all the better. What makes it five stars? My first read of the new year, and I couldn’t put this one down. I had to know what would happen, had to see Willow get her HEA, and TBH, I was worried these two wouldn’t be able to pull this off.
Overall, if you’re looking for contemporary romances with plenty of heat, comedic moments, and you love dogs, I can’t recommend The Redo List enough. For readers who enjoy Jaci Burton.
~ Landra
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