Highcliffe House

About the Book:

Title: Highcliffe House
Author: Megan Walker
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishers
Release Date: May 7th, 2024
Genre: Regency Romance

The daughter of a wealthy investor and a handsome young businessman clash in this enemies-to-lovers romance from the author who brought you Lakeshire Park.

1813, Brighton, England

When Anna Lane offered her heart to Alexander Lennox, she did not expect to learn he had secretly promised his suit to another. Hurt and embarrassed, Anna begs her father to take her to the seaside where she can escape the gossip of the ton and recover, but her father insists they remain in London so he can attend to some business. Feeling the sting of rejection again, Anna longs for the day when she can dictate her own future and find a companion who will love her for who she is.

Born into modest circumstances, Graham’s hard work and ability to spot a good investment has allowed him to provide for his mother and younger sisters. Now, with a new opportunity in his sights, Graham approaches Mr. Lane, his business partner and mentor, hoping to persuade him to travel to Brighton to close the deal. Graham must act fast or else he might lose his chance to turn his meager earnings into permanent financial stability.

To Graham’s relief, Mr. Lane is interested in his proposal, but he counters with one of his own. He has business elsewhere, so Anna–whom he trusts with his business affairs–will accompany Graham to Brighton, and if she gives a good report, he will invest. Both Anna and Graham hesitate. Though they have a passing acquaintance through Anna’s father, the two have never truly got along. Anna feels that Graham is only interested in money, while Graham feels that Anna is stubborn and self-absorbed.

The two reluctantly travel to Brighton together, and Anna is determined to find fault with every inch of the seaside town–including Graham. She is tired of feeling like a pawn being moved about by other people’s desires. But while staying at Highcliffe House and seeing the kind and gentle way Graham treats his family, Anna wonders if there is more to her rival than she thought.

But it will take more than a day at the beach for these two headstrong hearts to admit that if they set aside their misconceptions about each other and be vulnerable enough to share their true selves, they might have a chance at real love.

Book Review:

Oh my word, this story held me captive. It was just amazing! Highcliffe House is written by Megan Walker and it was just lovely. The characters drew me in and I couldn’t put it down.

Anna and Graham were fighting but they had to learn to get along as they were both together at his family house. Graham was trying to help Anna see the beauty of Highcliffe house and Brighton. Anna was just trying to make it through the week.

I loved Anna, she was so strong and fiery. She was stubborn but she was also learning to let others in and consider them. It was sweet to see her interacting with Graham and his family. Anna had to learn to let go of her mistakes as she spent time with Graham and his family.

Graham was fun. He was just trying his best to support his family and overcome the obstacles that stood before him. He never expected that Anna would interrupt his life. I adored his relationship with his family, it really helped you get to know him. Graham had to learn that he didn’t need to do everything on his own and that he could let others in.

The romance between Graham and Anna was a perfect slow burn, at least for me. They had to learn to truly see each other before they were able to fall in love. There was much that they had to overcome. The story was interesting and Graham’s family was so fun, especially his youngest sister. I adored Tabs.

I would totally recommend Highcliffe House! It exceeded my expectations and it is definitely worth a read. Highcliffe House is a clean historical romance.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher through Netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, a positive review was not required.

To Forge Her Faith

About the Book:

A Noble Inheritance (Castles & Courtship) by [Kasey Stockton]

Title: To Forget Her Faith
Series: Hearts of Harewodd #1
Author: Kasey Stockton
Release Date: March 11th 2024
Genre: Historical Romance

Eliza Rose is the perfect lady—accomplished in pianoforte, riding, and multiple languages—until a scandal disrupts her privileged world. The fallen Rose family has struggled to regain their standing until a fortuitous connection helps Eliza re-secure her family’s place in Society, giving her everything she believed she wanted.

Eliza’s return comes at a bittersweet price, however, as she unexpectedly loses her heart to the town blacksmith. She yearns to follow her heart, but fears condemnation. Her mother would give anything to remain among her friends—and Eliza cannot be the reason her family falls from grace once again.

Jacob Ridley is a humble blacksmith, haunted by a past betrayal from a lady he thought he loved. He has come to Harewood to begin anew, with a rule to guide and protect himself—he will avoid women of quality. But Eliza is impossible to ignore, forever needing his help. He might not be a gentleman by Society’s standards, but he cannot refuse her when she is in need.

As their feelings mount, they must confront an impossible choice—remain loyal but lonely in their disparate spheres, or bravely come together despite the formidable barriers, threat of scandalous gossip, and pain of family objection. These two unlikely hearts are torn between love and obligation. Will the right choice come at too dear a price?

Book Review:

I was so excited for this! I love Ms. Stockton’s historical romances and this one was no different!

Eliza was so lovely! She felt very real as she struggled with the expectations of others and even of her parents. She wanted to support her family and help them into Society, but she felt the whispers and ridicule of the people around her. Eliza was finding for herself where happiness came from, whether she could be satisfied with a life spent constantly considering Society. Her friendship with Ruth was so lovely. I love female friendships and they really supported one another, even if they didn’t always agree!

Jacob was so sweet! He was very thoughtful and even though he had troubles in the past, still sought to be kind and generous. I loved how considerate he was of Eliza, even as they grew closer. His relationship with the Thornes was also so sweet. They were so warm and I loved the way he sought to show the same type of kindness he found with them!

It was so intriguing to watch the story unfold! Secrets were being revealed and it was so exciting! While they were certainly surprising, it never felt completely out of left field. I loved seeing Harewood and getting to know everyone. There were so many interesting and compelling characters. I am so excited to read more! This is a sweet historical romance with only kissing.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

Miles Bailey Gets Down on One Knee

About the Book:

Title: Owen Bailey Gets Down on One Knee
Series: Another Bailey Brother #3
Author: Jen Atkinson
Release Date: April 29th, 2024
Genre: Romantic Comedy

I am Delaney Jones, courageous enough to defy my mother, fearless enough to leave my successful rock band, and daring enough to propose to a perfect stranger.

Delaney:
Miles wasn’t planned.
Which kind of made him perfect.

Sure, I’d just said no—to a load of handsome men on a reality show designed to find me a husband, but I didn’t want any of them.

I don’t want Miles either—at least, I think I don’t. It’s the perfect scenario because, unlike all those guys on that show, he doesn’t want me either. No broken hearts.

Can’t we all just play nice? A convenient, image-building marriage without all the bitter rejection? That’s all I’m asking.

Yep, Miles is perfect for the job.
Or at least he would be if my heart would stop betraying me every time he walked into the room.

Miles:
She gave me one job.
One.
Don’t fall in love with her.

That’s all I have to do and my stagnant career is going to take off, like a rocket.
As long as I follow the rules.

But Delaney never mentioned how very difficult those rules would be to follow. She makes them difficult. If I’d known I wasn’t just entering a marriage of convenience, but a DEFCON two marriage, I may have thought twice before slipping that gold band on her finger.

Marry the girl. Check.
Be seen with the girl. Check.
Don’t fall in love with the girl. Crap.

Book Review:

This was such a cute read! Marriage of convenience is an adorable trope, and Atkinson pulls together the romance well. I loved watching Miles and Delaney connect and fall in love.

Miles was a sweetheart! I loved him right from the start, and his clear love for his family and students was adorable. I really liked his more gentle spirit, but he was still willing to stand up for Delaney. They were really cute together!

Delaney was a fun character! I had a hard time understanding her character at first, but I realized part of it was some past hurts. She was a fighter, and I liked how willing she was to support Miles. She wanted to help him the way he helped everyone else. Miles and Delaney were super sweet, and even though their romance was fast, it didn’t feel rushed.

The Bailey family was one of my favorite parts of Owen’s book, and I loved them in this book too! They’re so close with one another, and the sister in laws fit in perfectly too. The plot in this one is well paced, and the story made me want to keep reading. I would definitely recommend this closed door romcom!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

The Breakup Project

About the Book:

Title: The Breakup Project
Series: The Original Six Hockey Romance Series #1
Author: Carolyn Miller
Release Date: December 29th, 2021
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance

New Year. New Resolution. New Romance?
What happens when the best-laid plans break a friendship?

As the twin sister of hockey’s hottest forward, romance-loving Bree Karlsson is used to being ignored, leading to a New Year’s resolution to not date any athlete in her attempt to find Mr. Right. But what happens when the man who might prove to be her personal Mr. Darcy is her brother’s hockey-playing best friend?

Mike Vaughan might be happy playing in Boston, but he’d be even happier if Bree could one day see him as more than a good friend. He agrees to help Bree with a special project in the hope she’ll finally see him as something more. But when a misunderstanding ends in a Valentine’s Day disaster, Bree realizes that her breakup project may have broken her friendship with Mike in two. Can she ever redeem her mistake?

Book Review:

Sweet and slightly sporty, The Breakup Project is a lovely Christian romance. As the twin of hockey’s hottest forward, romance-loving Bree Karlsson has felt ignored one too many times, leading to New Year’s resolution of no athletes. But what if her Mr. Right is her brother’s hockey playing best friend? Mike Vaughan is happy playing in Boston, but he would be even happier if Bree would see him as more than a friend. He agrees to help Bree with a special project, hoping he will see him as something more. But a misunderstanding turned Valentine’s Day disaster, Bree realizes her breakup project may have broken her friendship with Mike. Can she redeem her mistake?

This was a fun book! Overall I enjoyed it and appreciated the Christian elements. Bree was a relatable character and I loved her growth. She was a bit frustrating at times, but it made her feel very real. Although she was thoughtful and willing to help, she could be self-centered and stubborn. Seeing her POV, I understood her and was hoping she would figure things out. I really liked how Bree learned from God’s teaching and how other believers spoke into her life. Her family was so fun, even if they were certainly involved! I really felt like they loved one another and wanted the best for each other, although it sometimes manifested itself in gentle meddling!

Mike was a sweetheart! I found him so earnest and I really appreciated how he consistently sought the Lord’s leading throughout the book. His faith impacted his whole life and it was so inspirational to see his ministry! It made me consider my own faith and how I view things like worldwide missions. I liked how they appreciated one another’s character and supported each other. It took some time for them to find their way together and it did feel a bit long at times, but I think it was good for their character development and for the readers to understand them.

This is a sweet Christian romance with some sports influence! It has only kissing, but has some innuendo discussions. There are also discussions of poverty, natural disasters, and the effects of both.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

Keep It Together

About the Book:

Title: Keep It Together
Series: Sworn to Loathe You #4
Author: Rachel John
Release Date: November 1st, 2023
Genre: Romantic Comedy

It’s not awkward unless we make it awkward.

Carmen… I’ve forgiven Isaac for being a jerk to me when we were kids, but while my grudge against him is gone, my fears are alive and well. I don’t care how much chemistry there is between us. I’m done with guys and their commitment issues, and I’ve found a way to make life a whole lot easier.

I friend-zone them. Every single one.

It’s worked super well. Until now.

Isaac isn’t like other guys. He knows all about the friendship-only box I’ve shoved him into and constantly teases me about it. It’s not the elephant in the room. It’s his favorite joke.

The line between goofiness and flirtation is growing thinner with every interaction. Isaac hasn’t just charmed my parents and all the senior citizens we pick up for bingo night. He’s also winning me over, and I’m terrified.

Isaac… I couldn’t have designed a person more perfectly apt to make me lose my mind than the grown-up version of Carmen Ortega. I already knew she was funny, adventurous, and kind to a fault. But adding attraction to that is like pouring lighter fluid on a campfire.

Telling her how I feel will send her running in the other direction, so I make jokes. If she wants to see the truth in the words, it’s right there.

She can try to set me up with her friends, sic her neighborhood matchmaker on me, and ban me from bringing her flowers. For now.

I won’t step a toe across the line without her permission, but I’m not afraid of the long game. Carmen is the goal, and I plan to show her what being friends forever really means.

Book Review:

This was such a fun read! I love friends to lovers, and this one does not disappoint.

I loved Carmen from the beginning. She had so much fun quirkiness in her, and it was interesting to read about a character who embraced her quirkiness but still struggled with insecurities. That felt really real and relatable to me. And her family was so much fun! I wish we could have seen more of them, but they were all hilarious side characters that were very overly invested in her life.

Isaac was a sweetheart! He adored Carmen, and it was clear that he loved her and wanted to be with her. I really liked how their relationship felt balanced. Isaac was a people pleaser, but Carmen forced him to express himself when he otherwise would have kept quiet. And his family was so sweet! I’m hoping for some other books about them.

I would definitely recommend this sweet, closed door romcom! It’s a slow burn romance with no third act breakup. It’s a fairly relaxed read, but you might be screaming at the characters to kiss already 😉 Perfect for fans of friends to lovers!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

Flat Deception

About the Book:

Title: Flat Deception
Series: Roxbury Heirs #2
Author: Paige Edwards
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Release Date: May 7th, 2024
Genre: Suspense

Lady Sophie Henderson has worked tirelessly to establish a breeding stable for racehorses on her family’s Scottish estate. But when her father cuts her funding, she’s desperate to find a way to achieve her life’s ambition. Selling precious heirloom jewels enables Sophie to care for her thoroughbreds, though it’s a temporary solution—and one that does not go unnoticed.

Zander Matthews is painfully aware of the role he played in Sophie’s loss of sponsorship. Now, he’s determined to use his hard-earned wealth to help her achieve her dreams. When Zander shocks Sophie with the offer of a business investment, it seems her aspirations are finally within reach. But the new partners discover that finding success will not be simple. There is a dark side to the posh British racing community, and Sophie and Zander have captured the attention of an enemy whose greed knows no bounds. Even as their partnership develops into something more, their happy ending is just beyond reach. Because in a world where people are willing to do anything to win, it’s impossible to know who to trust.

Book Review:

This was such an exciting book! Flat Deception is the second book in Paige Edward’s Roxbury Heirs series and it did not disappoint.

Sophie was strong willed and fiery, I loved her from the beginning. She wasn’t afraid to fight for what she believed in but she also felt deeply for those she cared about. However she had to learn to overcome the obstacles that faced her as she tried to make her dreams come true. She had to learn to let Zander in.

I adored Zander. He was so sweet and kind. He truly cared for Sophie and he had fallen hard. He was trying to figure out how to help her without stepping on her toes. I liked how he considered her his equal. However Zander had to learn how to let go of his past and not let it affect his future.

Sophie and Zander were such fun characters togethery. They had chemistry and they were able to match each other. I liked the progression of their relationship. They had to fight for each other because being with someone is hard work. The suspense was perfect and I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was happening. I don’t know a lot about horse racing but it was still so engaging. I enjoyed the side characters and getting to see cameos from other books.

I would totally recommend Flat Deception! The story drew me in and I didn’t want to put the book down. It was the perfect blend of suspense and romance with lovely characters. Flat Deception is a wonderful addition to the series and I am excited to see what is going to come next. Flat Deception is clean romantic suspense.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

The Art of Falling in Love with Your Brother’s Best Friend

About the Book:

Title: The Art of Falling in Love with Your Brother’s Best Friend
Series: Sweetkiss Creek Series #4
Author: Anne Kemp
Release Date: March 20th, 2024
Genre: Romantic Comedy

All’s fair in love and war…until your brother brings his bad boy, ice hockey playing best friend into your life.

Riley: I’m pouring all my savings into launching my own catering business, so the last thing I need is distraction. Even if he is six feet five inches tall, plays ice hockey, and is probably one of the most intriguing, and also maddening, people I’ve met. Ever.

People say he’s grumpy, but to me, he’s funny and kind, too. He’s misunderstood and even though he’s one of the most famous players coming up in the ranks right now, he doesn’t feel seen by those he loves…and I get that. But I’ve got my own fears: that my dreams fail, my mother keeps rejecting me, and the big one––my fear of commitment.

Jake: Getting suspended for ‘anger issues’ lands me in Sweetkiss Creek at my agent’s request. Licking my wounds and taking a time out sounds ridiculous…until I meet her. She’s feisty, sassy, and fiery enough that I swear she could melt the ice I skate on.

I never would have thought I’d find solace and an unexpected ally in the person who’s old bedroom I’m staying in. The last thing I want or need is to fall in love––but for some reason my heart isn’t getting the memo.

The Art of Falling in Love with Your Brother’s Best Friend is an annoyances to lovers, brother’s best friend closed door romcom with a grumpy hero, a French Bulldog named Posh, a rescue Collie-mix named Becks, and a turtle named Brad Pitt. Chemistry, swoony kisses, and tension collide in this small town romance!

Book Review:

This was such a cute read! I loved getting to see this adorable town come to life, and the sweet romance between Jake and Riley.

Riley was such a fun character, and I loved her spirit. It was fun to see her grow into herself and step out of her insecurities. Jake brought out some of her fire and independence which was cute to see. I thought Jake was such a sweetheart! At first glance, he seemed like a bit of a bad boy, but he had just had a rough couple of days. He was so sweet, and his care for his family was adorable.

I loved the family aspect of this! Travis and Riley had the sweetest relationship where they still felt like siblings, but they always had each other’s back. I appreciated how Riley’s relationship with her mom grew too. And Jake’s family is a cute addition. The side characters feel like family too, and I cannot wait for some more HEAs.

This was a quick and fun romcom that I would highly recommend! While the romance is very fast, it felt natural to me. And I loved how low stress it was completely perfect for my week.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

A Provincial Peer

About the Book:

Title: The Unassuming Curator
Series: Georgian Gentlemen #5
Author: Sian Ann Bessey
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Release Date: May 7th, 2024
Genre: Historical Romance

Lord Benning is no ordinary nobleman. The heir to an earldom, he feels more at home working on the farm at his country estate than socializing in the ballrooms of London. So when a mysterious, veiled woman mistakes him for a farmhand, he takes the assumption in stride. And though he is not offended, he is intrigued.

Following a devastating outbreak of smallpox, Caroline Granger and her young daughter, Meg, retreat to Caroline’s childhood home in the village of Leyfield in Gloucestershire. Left widowed and weakened by the ravages of the disease, Caroline wears a veil to hide her facial scars and to prevent the inevitable gasps of horror or murmurs of pity others offer in response to her altered appearance.

Caroline is mortified when she learns of her error in addressing Lord Benning—or Benedict, as she called him during their growing-up years—as a farmhand. But shared childhood memories and a precocious four-year-old inevitably draw Benedict and Caroline together, and it’s not long before Caroline realizes that Benedict accepts every part of her—including her scars. With newfound courage and a growing love for Benedict, Caroline feels the first stirrings of hope. But when the disease that took so much from Caroline finds its way to Leyfield, she stands to lose more than she can bear, and Benedict must decide exactly how much he is willing to risk for a chance at love.

Book Review:

This was just the sweetest read. It was low stress and I adored the characters and the story. A Provincial Peer is the 6th book in Sian Ann Bessey’s Georgian Gentlemen series. I have been eagerly awaiting this book and it did not disappoint.

I adored Caroline and Benedict. They were just lovely characters and I connected with them from the beginning. I really liked their growth throughout the book and reading about them falling in love. They were both trying to future out their lives and they weren’t looking for love but it crept up on them.

Caroline was learning what it looked like to start her life again after not only getting sick and losing her husband. She was doing her best to care for her daughter, Meg. But she was still struggling. I liked how she learned to trust herself and see that her scars don’t make her a person.

Benedict was just the sweetest character. He was unlike other lords but he was trying his best to care for those under him. I loved how he connected with both Meg and Caroline. He truly loved Caroline and Meg, and they found a way into his heart.

The romance was perfect. I liked the progression of Caroline and Benedict’s relationship and how they knew each other beforehand. Meg was just lovely. The plot was interesting and I wanted to see how Caroline and Benedict would come together as they worked to help those suffering from sickness and lack of food.

A Provincial Peer was a stunning conclusion to this amazing series! I could not recommend this book enough. It was fun to read as part of a series but it can definitely be read as a standalone. I am sad to see this series end but I am excited to get my hands on whatever Bessey writes next.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

That Time I Kissed My Beachfront Boss

About the Book:

Title: That Time I Kissed My Beachfront Boss
Series: Abieville Love Stories #3
Author: Julie Christianson
Release Date: March 8th, 2023
Genre: Romantic Comedy

My dream job just got snapped up by the one man who rejected me…

That’s right. I’m an unemployed twenty-something stuck sleeping on my grandmother’s old futon while Hudson Blaine, the guy who shot me down, gets to manage The Beachfront Inn

Talk about life being unfair.

I’m about to flee town with what’s left of my pride when Mr. Rejection begs me to stay. Apparently, he needs my help resuscitating the inn’s reputation before the grand reopening.

But I’m not sure I can bear Hudson being my new boss, or survive sharing an office with him and his wife-me-up eyes.

So I tell myself it’s just for one month. One month to prove myself and what I’m capable of …

Or go down on the shores of The Beachfront Inn in a blaze of humiliation.

That Time I Kissed My Beachfront Boss is a closed-door romantic comedy in the Abieville Love Stories series with all the sizzling chemistry you love, but no explicit scenes or language.

Tropes in the book:

Sworn off relationships
Forced proximity
Workplace romance
Found family
Small town

…

Book Review:

Omg! What a perfect pick-me-up for this rainy season! I was so excited to revisit Abieville and read Olivia’s book! Both of the MCs have been introduced earlier in the series and Olivia has actually been mentioned in the Apple Valley Love Stories series. I loved how her books connect, it really amps up the excitement for each person’s book.

I really felt for Olivia. She had spent so long trying to find success in her work and it seemed as if it was all for nothing. She was so hard working and passionate, but felt stuck. It was so cool to see how she was able to find her place! Hudson was also so sweet! He was trying to establish himself and stand on his own. They were able to be themselves with one another and share who they really were.

The romance was adorable! Even though neither was looking for love, they couldn’t help being drawn to one another. As someone who has read Ms. Christianson’s other books, I really enjoyed seeing all of the old characters again! The family was hilarious! I loved seeing the sibling interactions and how they all came together to support them.

This was an adorable romcom with forced proximity in the Abieville Love stories series, with only kissing. It can be read as a standalone, but I think it is so much more fun having read the other books! While there is addressing of parental abandonment and the loss of a loved one, it is mentioned as in the past, not on page.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review

Owen Bailey Needs Advice

About the Book:

Title: Owen Bailey Needs Advice
Series: Another Bailey Brother #2
Author: Jen Atkinson
Release Date: February 16th, 2024
Genre: Romantic Comedy

Dear Ask Annie,
I know my best friend is THE ONE. But how do I tell her that?

Annie Archer has a problem… She can’t get one email—one mind-boggling letter from her advice column out of her head. The one? Does the one even exist?

She should be able to answer this question, just like all the others. Except, she doesn’t have firsthand experience with the one. In fact, except for those few months back in tenth grade when she went temporarily insane and fell for her best friend—she’s never been in love. But then, her advice is based on research and facts, not experience.

So, time to research. Convincing Owen to be her hands-on experiment isn’t too difficult. She’ll set him up, use her guaranteed advice, and find him the girl of his dreams. It’s a foolproof plan… until everyone around them—including half her readers–start asking why she isn’t dating Owen.

Yep—Annie has BIG problems. At the top of the list—falling for her bestie.

Owen Bailey has—you guessed it—a problem. He’s found the one. He fell for his best friend a long time ago, even if she doesn’t know it. He’s been watching Annie go out with guy after guy, only to never be The Guy. And now she wants him to date other women? As in—not her?

He’ll do anything for Annie. But he doesn’t have to like it. Doesn’t she see that they were meant for each other? How can he convince her that he’s the one?

If he’s going to show Annie that it’s time for her to abandon her plans and see what’s right in front of her, he’ll need advice.

Lucky for him, he knows exactly who to ask.

Book Review:

This was really cute! The friends to lovers trope is one of my favorites, and I really liked watching Owen and Annie fall in love.

I liked Owen from the start! He was such a sweetheart, and I thought it was adorable how in love he was with Annie. He was such a genuinely nice guy, and I always love a cinnamon roll MC. His relationship with his students was hilarious too! I loved watching how invested they got in his and Annie’s relationship.

Annie had to grow on me a little. At first, I didn’t really understand her perspective, but as the book went on, I realized how she was struggling with her own insecurities. I liked watching her grow and learn to let go of the past. In so many ways, she was fearless but not in love.

Owen and Annie’s friendship was so sweet! From the start, their relationship felt very natural and normal and even their progression into more than friends worked really well. I loved how they learned more about each other even though they had know each other for forever. They realized that both of them had been unintentionally hiding things. But their families were instrumental in shedding light on some unspoken things. I loved both sets of family! They were hilarious, and they made me want to read Levi and Meredith’s book too.

The story in this one felt really well paced, but there were points where I was a bit frustrated with the characters. So, I felt a bit disconnected from the story. But it was a lot of fun, and I was rooting for Owen and Annie by the end of it. This is a clean romance perfect for fans of the friends to lovers trope!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.