What It Takes

Windy Harbor Series, Book 2

By: Willow Aster

Narrated by: Rose Dioro, Sebastian York

A Sexy, Small town, Enemies to Lovers, Brother’s Best Friend romance from USA Today Bestselling Author Willow Aster

Camden Whitman has always been in my life. I met him when I was five and he was seven, but when he and my brother became best friends, I became nothing more than the pesky little sister he didn’t want around.

There was a period of time when I thought I felt a connection between us, but he shut that down faster than I could blink. Fast forward to adulthood years later, and here I am, still the annoying little sister he can’t stand.

Now there’s one difference: I want nothing to do with him.

I’m happy running The Kitty-Corner Cafe in my small town of Windy Harbor, Minnesota, and love living in my little slice of paradise on Lake Superior…until Camden decides to move here and open up a new restaurant.

Who cares if he’s a well-known chef who can prepare the most delectable food? He will never hear that from me. He’s wrecked my small-town, stress-free bubble and filled it with his abrasive comments and intrusive looks.

But then the unexpected happens. One night, when both of our walls are down, I see a glimpse of something other than distaste in his eyes. And it has me wondering if I’ve misjudged the man that has always gotten under my skin.

When those boundaries are crossed, there’s no turning back. Camden is on a mission and will do whatever it takes to make me his…

What it Takes is book two in the interconnected, standalone Windy Harbor series.

©2025 Willow Aster (P)2025 Willow Aster

Destined

Love it! The narrators did an amazing performance. I love the accents and all the emotion. Really kept my attention from beginning to end and still want more. Camden and Juliana have been in each other's orbit through lots of highs and lows for 21 years. Once friends, now enemies both are always hiding their true feelings for the sake of Camden and her brother Jackson's friendship. Once the walls start tumbling these two are explosive. I love all the small town vibes and meddling family. Those Grandmas had me laughing so hard. Definitely a 5 star must devour.

I was sent an advanced copy audiobook from VPR and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

Banter, chemistry and second chances

The duet narration by Rose Dioro and Sebastian York elevates the story even further. Sebastian York brings Camden to life with a confident, quietly intense delivery that perfectly matches his devoted, determined personality. Rose Dioro shines as Juju, capturing her warmth, frustration, and emotional depth with ease—and her accents for the grandparents are a delightful bonus. Together, they create an immersive, natural listening experience that makes every emotion land and every scene feel vivid. This audiobook is a true standout and a joy to listen to from start to finish.

What It Takes is a warm, engaging small-town romance that blends enemies-to-lovers tension, brother’s best friend angst, and heartfelt second chances. Camden and Juliana’s history is layered with misunderstandings and unresolved feelings, making their reunion feel emotionally grounded and believable. From the start, their banter sparkles, and the push-pull between them is both entertaining and endearing. This story pulls you in quickly and keeps you invested in watching two people who’ve always mattered to each other finally get it right.

One of the highlights of this book is how Willow Aster uses flashbacks to deepen Camden and Juju’s connection. These glimpses into their shared past add context and emotional weight, showing how a love rooted in childhood slowly evolved—and fractured—over time. Their mutual passion for cooking creates a natural bond that carries through the story, while forced proximity and quiet, late-night moments chip away at the walls they’ve both built. Though the misunderstanding trope may feel slightly frustrating at times, it ultimately pays off in a satisfying way.

The supporting cast adds so much charm to the story. The grandparents and uncles are absolute scene-stealers, bringing humor, warmth, and that unmistakable small-town feel. Camden’s quirky interactions with Ralph the chicken are unexpectedly delightful and add a unique, memorable touch. The Whitman family dynamics feel rich and authentic, giving just enough insight into the siblings to leave you wanting more from this world.

At its core, What It Takes is comforting, swoony, and emotionally rewarding. The proposal scene alone—set in a rebuilt childhood treehouse—is pure romance perfection. Funny, heartfelt, and easy to sink into, this book delivers chemistry, nostalgia, and that cozy feeling that makes you want to linger in Windy Harbor just a little longer.

All the Things I Love in a Small Town Romance!

4.5 ⭐️
2.5 🔥
Small Town Romance
Friends to Enemies to Lovers
Brother’s Best Friend
Mutual Pining
Cooking & Baking
Elderly Shenanigans
Banter
Fantastic on Audio! 🎧
This was so much fun! I loved this one!! This is book two of The Windy Harbor series, but can be read as a complete standalone. Camden & Juju were childhood friends that bonded over their love for cooking & food, but as they got older, Camden pulled away and Juju never understood why. Camden had a lot of complicated feelings and devastating things that happened in his life that held him back from giving into his feelings for Juju. Not to mention, he had a pact with Juju’s brother, that they would never date each other’s sisters. But, as Camden returns to town to be with his family, he is finding it harder and harder to stay away from Juju. It was always, the right person but wrong time. Can this be the right time?! I love them!! I can’t wait for the rest of the series! Also, the elderly shenanigans had me laughing my butt off!! 😂

Thank you Willow Aster and Valentine PR for the ALC!

What it takes

I’m obsessed with Juju and Camden. Their chemistry was everything. Loved seeing how their relationship flourished and was able to overcome their differences. Their little secret randevu were exciting and sexy. Plus the duet narration made this book so fun to listen to. Rose Dioro and Sebastian York did such an incredible job portraying each character within this book. I definitely got a kick out of each scene where the family was involved. Especially grandma and grandpa, their little banters were hilarious. The entire family was so supportive and oh so cute, I loved every bit of it.

Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for the opportunity to listen to this amazing audiobook.

The Pining, The Push & Pull, The Destiny

ALC Review:
Duet Narration by Rose Dioro and Sebastian York

Tropes:
Brother’s Best Friend
Enemies to Lovers
Small Town
Long-Term Pining
Emotional Slow Burn

What It Takes was such a strong, emotional return to Windy Harbor. This story is all about tension built over time, unresolved feelings, and two people who never really stopped wanting each other.

Rose Dioro delivered a strong and emotionally grounded portrayal of Juju, capturing her guarded nature, quiet strength, and underlying vulnerability. Sebastian York was a perfect fit for Camden, conveying his restraint, confidence, and the long-standing tension beneath the surface. Together, their performances highlighted the push and pull between the characters, making the pining, misunderstandings, and emotional tension feel authentic and engaging.

The narration worked beautifully, enhancing the connection between the characters and adding an extra layer of realism to their dynamic. It was a pleasure to return to Windy Harbor through such compelling narration, and this performance left me eager to hear more from this world—especially what’s next.

And the tease of Dylan? I’m ready. Huge thanks to Valentine PR and Willow Aster for this ALC.