A review by asmittenreader
Caught in the Axe by Daphne Elliot

4.0

I love living in this small town era 🌲🫶

The story's main plot line of 'saving the family business' was done really well. I was very invested in whether or not Owen successfully accomplished this. There was a murder on their land, I hope this gets answered in a future book. 

Owen is our MMC. He grew up in this small town but made a great life for himself in Boston. He's broody and moody, and he definitely doesn't WANT to have to dig the family out of the hole that his dad dropped them into. But he loves his brothers and would do anything for them. He's extremely smart and dedicated. I thought he was rather sweet!!! The gluten-free pizza situation. Oh, hell!!! 

I liked that Lila, our FMC, already had a whole past life that brought her to this strong, evolved individual. She has goals & boundaries. She is smart, determined, goal oriented, strong-willed, and super funny. I thought her wit was on point. 

The ex's brother trope was done very maturely. I was expecting a bit more grit & drama over this, but the way it was handled was so grown up. Which was fine because the lumberyard has enough drama. 

Favorite Scenes:
1. When Lila is in the board room and schools the cheap dirty buyers. 
2. When Owen sets up an outdoor movie theater. 
3. When Lila announces her feelings in the hospital.

Fave Quote:
“Because I don’t want you to be cold. Or hungry or tired. I care about you. And if I can make your life easier, even in the smallest of ways, then I’ll do it. Every time."