3.5 stars - I liked this book a lot, but the dynamic between JJ & Brooke was a little awkward at times. Like, JJ kept saying Brooke ruined his life but like whaaa? How? No explanation for the dramatics. ( )

One of my favorites from this author.

There is just something about this author that speaks to my soul. Every word choice, certain way of phrasing things, and a story that has me inhaling it as if it was sustenance needed to live is part of every story. There is always humor, emotions, lessons to be learned, and situations that are real. Her characters come alive and jump off the page. I want to go to this imaginary world and live there. I want these people to be my friends.

Brooke is hands down one of my favorite female characters. She's neck and neck with Shannon (Cornerstone series) which says something because that woman is my fictional woman crush. Her conversations with Annette are HILARIOUS. She has zero filter which I appreciated. She has a lot on her plate but if anyone can distract her it's definitely JJ. Sweet lord, JJ is grumbly and delicious. I loved that he didn't mince words and just stepped in knowing his heart was going to be on the line but not caring because she was worth it.

I loved having the interaction with the previous characters. It was authentic. As I mentioned, these characters feel like family and friends. These characters, this book, and this author are just a few reasons that I love to read. Add in some super steamy times around a balanced story and it was another hit. One of my favorites of 2019. ( )