REVIEW: The Re-Do List by Denise Williams

The Re-Do List by Denise Williams: After a very public breakup shatters the life she thought she had figured out, Willow Lewis decides she doesn’t just want to move on — she wants a do-over. Every big “first” in her life belonged to the same person, and now she’s ready to reclaim those moments for herself. Enter her brother’s best friend, Deacon… the one man she definitely shouldn’t be making a list with.

While dog-sitting during her brother’s deployment, Willow finds herself back in familiar territory — and unexpectedly supported by Deacon, who’s sworn loyalty to his best friend and absolutely not crossing that line. At least, that’s the plan. What starts as an innocent “Operation Re-Do” slowly shifts as first dances turn into first kisses, and emotional safety turns into something deeper.

With an expiration date looming and lines getting blurrier by the day, Willow and Deacon must decide if second chances are worth the risk — even when love complicates everything.

THE RE-DO LIST is one of those romances that sneaks up on you, it is a soft, affirming romance that balances sweetness with real emotions. Denise Williams writes a romance that isn’t just about sparks — it’s about connection, trust, and learning to put yourself first while letting someone in. The slow-burn tension is delicious, and the mutual pining keeps you hooked.

Tropes & Themes:

• Brother’s best friend
• Forced proximity
• Re-do / second-chance romance
• Slow-burn tension
• Mutual pining
• Starting over without shame
• Emotional safety & support

THE RE-DO LIST is warm, sexy, and quietly empowering — a romance that reminds you it’s never too late to rewrite your story, especially when the right person is cheering you on. If you love tender love stories with real emotional growth and gentle heat, this one is such a win.

Book Info:

Publication: January 27, 2026 | Berkley

What would you do with a second chance at your first time? Following a bad breakup, Willow Lewis tackles a re-do list with the help of her brother’s best friend in this sweet and sexy new romance from USA Today bestselling author Denise Williams.

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.