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Red Summer
Ophelia Clark was wholly convinced that there wasn’t a single male specimen left on the planet that was relationship material. On the verge of swearing off men for good, one chance encounter with a hot, tattooed bartender has her second guessing her choices.
She was only home for the summer, and then it was back to being across the country for college. A relationship deemed pointless and feelings would only complicate things, but James Benton was the epitome of irresistible. So, the pair decides on a “no strings attached” stipulation.
A little bit of friends with benefits never hurt anyone, right?
She was only home for the summer, and then it was back to being across the country for college. A relationship deemed pointless and feelings would only complicate things, but James Benton was the epitome of irresistible. So, the pair decides on a “no strings attached” stipulation.
A little bit of friends with benefits never hurt anyone, right?
Kindle Edition
Published August 30, 2023
104 people are currently reading
2142 people want to read
About the author
Cassidy Hudspeth
3 books131 followersCassidy Hudspeth is an Indie Author who loves to read and write spicy romance books. She’s been writing for twelve years and reading for as long as she can remember. She resides in North Carolina with her son, husband, and fur-child. When Cassidy isn’t writing, she’s usually binge watching reality TV or spending time with her family.
Instagram: @cassidyhudspethauthor
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Instagram: @cassidyhudspethauthor
Tiktok: @cassidyhudspethauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
September 2, 2023
ARC REVIEW
right *slaps thighs and stands up*
an unfortunate DNF at 66%; i thought i was going to enjoy this book based on what i’d seen on instagram, but it did not hit the spot. i wish i enjoyed it because i love supporting indie authors, but this book clearly isn’t for me.
i want to preface and say this has the bones of something good, but there was no true substance to support anything that occurred in what i read.
in fact i started taking notes throughout to keep track of my thoughts so here they are.
- insta-lovey in a bad way. as in they meet chapter one and are obsessed with each other, but it’s not good. at all.
- pacing is way too fast and everyone is immature. she’s a 13 year old who thinks she’s rebellious trapped in the body of a 21 year old college student, he’s described as “old.”. oh but he rides a motorcycle and owns a bar
- his spicy dialogue is HOT 😩🙏🏼🌶️✨
- chapter 7: “If we’re going to do this, I need you to promise me something.” … “If we’re doing this, you’re mine.”— WHERE WAS THE FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS???
- where was the line in the sand? where was the torturous will they won’t they? is it in the room with us?
- chapter 11: rides his fucking thigh to orgasm right there on the couch with her best friend and her boytoy present— if you thought that was the end of their public affairs…
👁️👄👁️
- chapter 12: ‘Friends with benefits. The line was so far beyond blurry that she wasn't even sure that there was a line. But it sure felt too damn good to care, sometimes.’— i’ll ask again; IS THE LINE IN THE ROOM WITH US?
- WAIT HUH- no intimacy in crossing forbidden lines, no ‘we can’t’/‘this means nothing to me’/‘this is nothing more than sating carnal desires’ … right, okay then
- OH GOD— ‘"A little old for your taste, don't you think?" her father muttered across from her, looking at her over the top of his wine glass. She pursed her lips innocently. "What's the matter, Daddy? Scared someone's going to take your title?"’— NOT THE SLAY YOU THOUGHT IT WOULD BE LORD HELP ME 🫠😳🫥
*cue me closing the book and panning to the camera in my room like i’m in the office*
- I CANT MAKE THIS UP— ‘"I can't wait until we get back to the apartment, James. I need that guy now." "In your parent’s driveway?" he rasped… "If you don't want to," she murmured cheekily, sliding her fingers under the waistband of her panties. "I'll just do it myself."’— 😑
- her parents cleaning up the kitchen: 👫
- ‘She never wanted this to end, the feeling of him ravishing her in such an animalistic manner in her parent’s driveway.’— NO BUT I WANT IT TO END
i read another 10% of this books after that happened simply because i received this book as an ARC and wanted to give it a fair go. like i said earlier it really does have the bones for something really great, unfortunately as a debut, this one didn’t entirely wow me. (well it did, but purely because i had no idea what was going on)
i think this book would be great if it was written as a fixer-upper-bar-reno-forced-prox and that was the driving force for them being around each other. could have given broody motorcycle bartender willing to do anything to keep his bar afloat x ophelia (who currently has no personality other than mummy-issues-college-student running from her problems). but alas, it did not and we ended up with a big old flat line.
right *slaps thighs and stands up*
an unfortunate DNF at 66%; i thought i was going to enjoy this book based on what i’d seen on instagram, but it did not hit the spot. i wish i enjoyed it because i love supporting indie authors, but this book clearly isn’t for me.
i want to preface and say this has the bones of something good, but there was no true substance to support anything that occurred in what i read.
in fact i started taking notes throughout to keep track of my thoughts so here they are.
- insta-lovey in a bad way. as in they meet chapter one and are obsessed with each other, but it’s not good. at all.
- pacing is way too fast and everyone is immature. she’s a 13 year old who thinks she’s rebellious trapped in the body of a 21 year old college student, he’s described as “old.”. oh but he rides a motorcycle and owns a bar
- his spicy dialogue is HOT 😩🙏🏼🌶️✨
- chapter 7: “If we’re going to do this, I need you to promise me something.” … “If we’re doing this, you’re mine.”— WHERE WAS THE FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS???
- where was the line in the sand? where was the torturous will they won’t they? is it in the room with us?
- chapter 11: rides his fucking thigh to orgasm right there on the couch with her best friend and her boytoy present— if you thought that was the end of their public affairs…
👁️👄👁️
- chapter 12: ‘Friends with benefits. The line was so far beyond blurry that she wasn't even sure that there was a line. But it sure felt too damn good to care, sometimes.’— i’ll ask again; IS THE LINE IN THE ROOM WITH US?
- WAIT HUH- no intimacy in crossing forbidden lines, no ‘we can’t’/‘this means nothing to me’/‘this is nothing more than sating carnal desires’ … right, okay then
- OH GOD— ‘"A little old for your taste, don't you think?" her father muttered across from her, looking at her over the top of his wine glass. She pursed her lips innocently. "What's the matter, Daddy? Scared someone's going to take your title?"’— NOT THE SLAY YOU THOUGHT IT WOULD BE LORD HELP ME 🫠😳🫥
*cue me closing the book and panning to the camera in my room like i’m in the office*
- I CANT MAKE THIS UP— ‘"I can't wait until we get back to the apartment, James. I need that guy now." "In your parent’s driveway?" he rasped… "If you don't want to," she murmured cheekily, sliding her fingers under the waistband of her panties. "I'll just do it myself."’— 😑
- her parents cleaning up the kitchen: 👫
- ‘She never wanted this to end, the feeling of him ravishing her in such an animalistic manner in her parent’s driveway.’— NO BUT I WANT IT TO END
i read another 10% of this books after that happened simply because i received this book as an ARC and wanted to give it a fair go. like i said earlier it really does have the bones for something really great, unfortunately as a debut, this one didn’t entirely wow me. (well it did, but purely because i had no idea what was going on)
i think this book would be great if it was written as a fixer-upper-bar-reno-forced-prox and that was the driving force for them being around each other. could have given broody motorcycle bartender willing to do anything to keep his bar afloat x ophelia (who currently has no personality other than mummy-issues-college-student running from her problems). but alas, it did not and we ended up with a big old flat line.
dnf
September 6, 2023dnf @ 8%
I simply cannot, what on earth did I just read.
Why is everyone given a full on description as soon as they appear on page? Why is her name constantly used? Why do they speak like that, people don’t act like this? It’s going to be a solid no from me.
I simply cannot, what on earth did I just read.
Why is everyone given a full on description as soon as they appear on page? Why is her name constantly used? Why do they speak like that, people don’t act like this? It’s going to be a solid no from me.
September 5, 2023
I really enjoyed Red Summer‧₊˚ ☁️⋅♡𓂃 ࣪ ִֶָ☾. It's the perfect summer book and tbh read it whenever you want, it doesn't matter if it isn't summer anymore, this book is perfect for any kind of occasion. The author mentioned that it's inspired by Taylor Swift's Cruel Summer as well and YES CAN AGREE.
The story follows Ophelia, a 21yo college girl who ends up at a bar one night after a very bad date. There, she meets 34yo James who is the bartender but also owns the bar. They hit it off instantly and from that point on, they're practically inseparable. If you enjoy fast burn, this is the book for you.
I actually cried a lot reading this book lmao? Like the big issue in the book made me cry so hard because I couldn't see how they were going to be together AND stay together. Ophelia is meant to go back to classes in five weeks but falls for James and now they don't know how to go on with this new relationship. Also there's the big issue of Ophelia's parents and how big JERKS they are. There will be some scenes that might make you emotional because Ophelia has always felt that no one has put her first. And you know what? James is the first one that does.
These two started off as friends with benefits, but it's so clear that they're more than that. They constantly text each other, flirt, touch, and when they're together, they are soft towards one another. He calls her "pretty girl" and "my Ophelia" all the time and IT'S SO CUTE. I GIGGLED AND KICKED MY FEET IN THE AIR WHENEVER IT HAPPENED.
The story follows Ophelia, a 21yo college girl who ends up at a bar one night after a very bad date. There, she meets 34yo James who is the bartender but also owns the bar. They hit it off instantly and from that point on, they're practically inseparable. If you enjoy fast burn, this is the book for you.
I actually cried a lot reading this book lmao? Like the big issue in the book made me cry so hard because I couldn't see how they were going to be together AND stay together. Ophelia is meant to go back to classes in five weeks but falls for James and now they don't know how to go on with this new relationship. Also there's the big issue of Ophelia's parents and how big JERKS they are. There will be some scenes that might make you emotional because Ophelia has always felt that no one has put her first. And you know what? James is the first one that does.
These two started off as friends with benefits, but it's so clear that they're more than that. They constantly text each other, flirt, touch, and when they're together, they are soft towards one another. He calls her "pretty girl" and "my Ophelia" all the time and IT'S SO CUTE. I GIGGLED AND KICKED MY FEET IN THE AIR WHENEVER IT HAPPENED.
May 15, 2024
Tropes:
- age gap
- friends w/ benefits to lovers
- he falls first & harder
- mutual pining
- praise kink
- college girl x bartender
- open door spice
- fast burn
Ophelia is a 21 year old college student who has practically had her life planned out for her by her parents. She is going to med school for a degree she isn’t passionate about just to please her parents. While home for summer vacation she is staying with her best friend, Wren. One night after a terrible first date, Ophelia walks into a bar where she comes across handsome, tattooed bartender, James. James offers Ophelia a ride home on his motorbike.
The pair quickly become friends but there is a lot of sexual tension between them so they decide that friends with benefits is better suited. They only plan to spend this summer together but along the way they both catch feelings for each other & with the looming deadline of Ophelia’s departure back to college around the corner, Ophelia needs to make a big decision.
I easily fell in love with both characters. Ophelia is a very strong minded woman. You can really see how she was so able to just be herself around James. Where do I even start with James? One of my new fave book boyfriends? Yes, I think so. James was so swoon worthy. He cared about Ophelia from that first night that he saw her. The way he spoke to & treated Ophelia was just the absolute sweetest. Also that man has some dirty talk on him🥵. One of my favourite things about James is that he isn’t scared to be vulnerable & show emotion. The way he also stood up against Ophelia’s parents was the sweetest thing ever.
I loved that this story was a fast burner. It is such an ideal story to get you out of a reading slump. There was a great storyline, amazing chemistry between the FMC & MMC. This book made me so emotional. One scene that was my absolute favourite was when James took Ophelia to his sisters gravesite. The fact he had never took his ex wife there not did she know where it was just showed how much Ophelia meant to James.
Overall, I love this book & would recommend it.
- age gap
- friends w/ benefits to lovers
- he falls first & harder
- mutual pining
- praise kink
- college girl x bartender
- open door spice
- fast burn
Ophelia is a 21 year old college student who has practically had her life planned out for her by her parents. She is going to med school for a degree she isn’t passionate about just to please her parents. While home for summer vacation she is staying with her best friend, Wren. One night after a terrible first date, Ophelia walks into a bar where she comes across handsome, tattooed bartender, James. James offers Ophelia a ride home on his motorbike.
The pair quickly become friends but there is a lot of sexual tension between them so they decide that friends with benefits is better suited. They only plan to spend this summer together but along the way they both catch feelings for each other & with the looming deadline of Ophelia’s departure back to college around the corner, Ophelia needs to make a big decision.
I easily fell in love with both characters. Ophelia is a very strong minded woman. You can really see how she was so able to just be herself around James. Where do I even start with James? One of my new fave book boyfriends? Yes, I think so. James was so swoon worthy. He cared about Ophelia from that first night that he saw her. The way he spoke to & treated Ophelia was just the absolute sweetest. Also that man has some dirty talk on him🥵. One of my favourite things about James is that he isn’t scared to be vulnerable & show emotion. The way he also stood up against Ophelia’s parents was the sweetest thing ever.
I loved that this story was a fast burner. It is such an ideal story to get you out of a reading slump. There was a great storyline, amazing chemistry between the FMC & MMC. This book made me so emotional. One scene that was my absolute favourite was when James took Ophelia to his sisters gravesite. The fact he had never took his ex wife there not did she know where it was just showed how much Ophelia meant to James.
Overall, I love this book & would recommend it.
August 20, 2023
Stealing a quote from my best friend: “This book was so hot I got a sunburn”
First of all… James Benton????? Do men like this exist??? And if so, where can I find one? Seriously, *chefs kiss*
This book was so sweet, romantic, and spicy 🥵, it had me blushing and giggling and kicking my little feetsies in the air. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this book, and I think it was a mixture of reading it on my phone and the spicy content, but I was literally transported back to my Wattpad fan fic days (except this book was better than 99% of those stories) and I LOVED every second of it.
Can’t wait for the world to read this!! I will most definitely be buying a physical copy to put on my bookshelf!
First of all… James Benton????? Do men like this exist??? And if so, where can I find one? Seriously, *chefs kiss*
This book was so sweet, romantic, and spicy 🥵, it had me blushing and giggling and kicking my little feetsies in the air. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this book, and I think it was a mixture of reading it on my phone and the spicy content, but I was literally transported back to my Wattpad fan fic days (except this book was better than 99% of those stories) and I LOVED every second of it.
Can’t wait for the world to read this!! I will most definitely be buying a physical copy to put on my bookshelf!
August 30, 2023
*I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review*
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
- Age gap
- Friends with benefits
- He falls first
- Summer romance
Ophelia and James have an instant connection. The chemistry between them is palpable. They end up agreeing to be friends with benefits during the summer. But they can't let go of their feelings.
Despite the age difference and the two were in different stages of life. They find, in themselves, a partnership and a pure love. They see the best in each other and are always supporting each other. One of the things I loved the most is the fact that Ophelia makes James feel comfortable in his own skin.
I really enjoyed seeing how much James communicates and tries to prevent any miscommunication from happening.
This book has several cute moments, and I found myself smiling several times while reading. And I also have to say that James, OH MY GOSH, he is 🔥🔥🔥
I really enjoyed reading this book and recommend it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
- Age gap
- Friends with benefits
- He falls first
- Summer romance
Ophelia and James have an instant connection. The chemistry between them is palpable. They end up agreeing to be friends with benefits during the summer. But they can't let go of their feelings.
Despite the age difference and the two were in different stages of life. They find, in themselves, a partnership and a pure love. They see the best in each other and are always supporting each other. One of the things I loved the most is the fact that Ophelia makes James feel comfortable in his own skin.
I really enjoyed seeing how much James communicates and tries to prevent any miscommunication from happening.
This book has several cute moments, and I found myself smiling several times while reading. And I also have to say that James, OH MY GOSH, he is 🔥🔥🔥
I really enjoyed reading this book and recommend it.
August 27, 2023
I really enjoyed their first meeting, and every little moment they had together until Wren’s wicked awesome gesture helped her out.
Even before any dates or anything, the little things Ophelia does to help out James is so heart melting-ly sweet, even if she was making him jealous at the same time. Their entire smexy tension was so damn hottt!!
I really enjoyed how their FWB situation evolved, even before any actual “benefits”.
I have to mention her crappy-a$$ parents. They were the worst…!
But the spice certainly made up for any hardship…! Holy hell!!! It is in the similar vein as Icebreaker, with “ “cute cover, but hella spicy” It was so steamy!!!!
When the third act came around, it was so heartbreaking!!! I kinda wanted to reach into my kindle and thr0ttle the reason for ‘it’.
The ending was so sweet and very spicy, it really made up for the sadness. It was so lovely and the promise of their happiness in the future was so breathtakingly beautiful, but I want more!
Read this or deal with missing out! It’s flipping fantastic!
Thanks Cassidy Hudspeth for an early review copy!
Even before any dates or anything, the little things Ophelia does to help out James is so heart melting-ly sweet, even if she was making him jealous at the same time. Their entire smexy tension was so damn hottt!!
I really enjoyed how their FWB situation evolved, even before any actual “benefits”.
I have to mention her crappy-a$$ parents. They were the worst…!
But the spice certainly made up for any hardship…! Holy hell!!! It is in the similar vein as Icebreaker, with “ “cute cover, but hella spicy” It was so steamy!!!!
When the third act came around, it was so heartbreaking!!! I kinda wanted to reach into my kindle and thr0ttle the reason for ‘it’.
The ending was so sweet and very spicy, it really made up for the sadness. It was so lovely and the promise of their happiness in the future was so breathtakingly beautiful, but I want more!
Read this or deal with missing out! It’s flipping fantastic!
Thanks Cassidy Hudspeth for an early review copy!
August 30, 2023
I received an ARC of this from the author, and in return I have to give an honest review, and it was terrible.
First of this was the quickest Insta love I’ve ever read, like they were all ready in love in the first chapter, there was no lust, or angst or longing for each other which I like to see, it just felt so fake.
Secondly I couldn’t stand the main girl in this, I can’t even remember her name. She was so childish and immature, and she knew she was but didn’t do anything about it. Like pastel pink shoes? No. She’s not 5, and the way she spoke to people and acted was as if she hadn’t socialised since she was 5.
The only redeemable part of this book was the spice which I enjoyed, as for the romance I really didn’t like it
First of this was the quickest Insta love I’ve ever read, like they were all ready in love in the first chapter, there was no lust, or angst or longing for each other which I like to see, it just felt so fake.
Secondly I couldn’t stand the main girl in this, I can’t even remember her name. She was so childish and immature, and she knew she was but didn’t do anything about it. Like pastel pink shoes? No. She’s not 5, and the way she spoke to people and acted was as if she hadn’t socialised since she was 5.
The only redeemable part of this book was the spice which I enjoyed, as for the romance I really didn’t like it
September 20, 2023
- 2 Stars ✰
I barley remember anything from this. I saw it marketed as friends with benefits, and well any book with that trope immediately gets added to my tbr, but this is not a friends with benefits at all. Its insta-lust/love they literally get obsessed with each other from the very first meet so that was disappointment number 1. Also its suppose to be an age gap, but the dude as sweet as he was, was acting like a 21 year old not someone who i believe was suppose to be in his 30s. Also there was this one scene where they were kinda getting it on in the same couch as their friends watching a movie, idk it felt uncomfortable just reading that scene. and this other scene which was spicy imo but still was abit uncomfortable was them doing it in the car in-front of her parents house, like ma'am theres a window right there, your parents can see you at anytime, atleast drive away abit, but apparently miss little 21 year old that i forgot her name could not wait, and found it super hot that the mmc and kind of chocked her dad because he was being a 'strict' dad.
honestly the only reason i was annoyed with alot of the things in this book is that i went into it thinking its going to be a friends with benefits situation AND IT WAS NOTT.
I barley remember anything from this. I saw it marketed as friends with benefits, and well any book with that trope immediately gets added to my tbr, but this is not a friends with benefits at all. Its insta-lust/love they literally get obsessed with each other from the very first meet so that was disappointment number 1. Also its suppose to be an age gap, but the dude as sweet as he was, was acting like a 21 year old not someone who i believe was suppose to be in his 30s. Also there was this one scene where they were kinda getting it on in the same couch as their friends watching a movie, idk it felt uncomfortable just reading that scene. and this other scene which was spicy imo but still was abit uncomfortable was them doing it in the car in-front of her parents house, like ma'am theres a window right there, your parents can see you at anytime, atleast drive away abit, but apparently miss little 21 year old that i forgot her name could not wait, and found it super hot that the mmc and kind of chocked her dad because he was being a 'strict' dad.
honestly the only reason i was annoyed with alot of the things in this book is that i went into it thinking its going to be a friends with benefits situation AND IT WAS NOTT.
August 30, 2023
Thank you Cassidy for sending me an ARC copy in return for my honest review.
The spice was 🤌🏻 I liked the idea of the story, but the writing style definitely wasn’t my favourite, found myself dragging to finish…
I really didn’t like Ophelia. I found her so whiney and immature.
I found out that I really don’t like the insta love trope. I needed more from the main characters and for them not to fall in love as soon as they met each other.
The romance for me was childish and immature, but at least the spice was good 🤷🏻♀️
The spice was 🤌🏻 I liked the idea of the story, but the writing style definitely wasn’t my favourite, found myself dragging to finish…
I really didn’t like Ophelia. I found her so whiney and immature.
I found out that I really don’t like the insta love trope. I needed more from the main characters and for them not to fall in love as soon as they met each other.
The romance for me was childish and immature, but at least the spice was good 🤷🏻♀️
September 5, 2023
“ 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴. 𝘉𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴. 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦, 𝘢𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶. “
Ophelia is a college student home for the summer with her best friend Wren. After a bad date she stops by a bar where she meets a very handsome bartender, James. She can’t take her eyes off from him, which he also apparently can’t, and curiosity and tensions grows between them quickly.
She’s only home for the summer which means she’ll leave him behind when she’ll have to go. A reason not to fall for the guy. They both can handle just a little summer fling, right?
This was such a cute read! It’s a slow burn but oh I love the tension between them, the tease and the flirtatious looks! So by the time the spicy took place, it was *chefs kiss*! My heart is aching for these two, their growth and their beautiful love story!
I simply adore Ophelia for how gentle, caring and supportive she is with James for making him feel comfortable with himself. The same goes with James, he’s so sweet, protective, understanding and only wants what’s best for Ophelia (her controlling parents is a big no no back off). Not to mention he makes one swoooon with the way he talks and just EXISTS!
They really brought out the best in each other and how well they communicated with each other to have a healthy relationship. No miscommunication here!
Thank you Cassidy for having me as one of your arc readers! It was truly an honor! 🤍
Ophelia is a college student home for the summer with her best friend Wren. After a bad date she stops by a bar where she meets a very handsome bartender, James. She can’t take her eyes off from him, which he also apparently can’t, and curiosity and tensions grows between them quickly.
She’s only home for the summer which means she’ll leave him behind when she’ll have to go. A reason not to fall for the guy. They both can handle just a little summer fling, right?
This was such a cute read! It’s a slow burn but oh I love the tension between them, the tease and the flirtatious looks! So by the time the spicy took place, it was *chefs kiss*! My heart is aching for these two, their growth and their beautiful love story!
I simply adore Ophelia for how gentle, caring and supportive she is with James for making him feel comfortable with himself. The same goes with James, he’s so sweet, protective, understanding and only wants what’s best for Ophelia (her controlling parents is a big no no back off). Not to mention he makes one swoooon with the way he talks and just EXISTS!
They really brought out the best in each other and how well they communicated with each other to have a healthy relationship. No miscommunication here!
Thank you Cassidy for having me as one of your arc readers! It was truly an honor! 🤍
August 30, 2023
4/5⭐️!!
I was lucky enough to receive a virtual ARC of this book from the author & WOW! I am so greatful!
Let me start off by saying, this is one of the cutest books I’ve read this year🥹 The chemistry, the connection, THE COMMUNICATION?! THEYRE SO GOOD😭James is also one of the TOP best MMC’s I’ve read in awhile! THE MIX OF SWEET & FILTHY TALKER?? My fav fav combo!
In my opinion, James & Ophelia bring out the best in each other. They go from strangers to friends to lovers! And y’all… he falls first and SO HARD!!!! During this book I giggled, blushed, sobbed, and healed. Now, I wanna reread asap!
This book has SO many of my fav tropes ( special shout out to age gap, praise, & he falls first😌👏🏻) such an emotional / amazing plot line, and I was never bored while reading it! Cassidy truly kept me in my toes!
If you’re looking for an adorable / steamy / emotional end of summer read, I highly recommend picking this up! I can’t wait to read more of Cassidy’s books in the future! - Izzy
I was lucky enough to receive a virtual ARC of this book from the author & WOW! I am so greatful!
Let me start off by saying, this is one of the cutest books I’ve read this year🥹 The chemistry, the connection, THE COMMUNICATION?! THEYRE SO GOOD😭James is also one of the TOP best MMC’s I’ve read in awhile! THE MIX OF SWEET & FILTHY TALKER?? My fav fav combo!
In my opinion, James & Ophelia bring out the best in each other. They go from strangers to friends to lovers! And y’all… he falls first and SO HARD!!!! During this book I giggled, blushed, sobbed, and healed. Now, I wanna reread asap!
This book has SO many of my fav tropes ( special shout out to age gap, praise, & he falls first😌👏🏻) such an emotional / amazing plot line, and I was never bored while reading it! Cassidy truly kept me in my toes!
If you’re looking for an adorable / steamy / emotional end of summer read, I highly recommend picking this up! I can’t wait to read more of Cassidy’s books in the future! - Izzy
September 24, 2025
Red Summer by Cassidy Hudspeth
5⭐️ | 4🌶️
This is a passionate, emotionally charged romance that follows Ophelia and James as they navigate love, personal struggles, and the challenges that come with their undeniable connection. Ophelia comes from a cold, unloving family, which has shaped her understanding of relationships, but she remains strong-willed and independent despite it all. James, on the other hand, is confident, charismatic, and utterly devoted to Ophelia, proving time and again that he’s willing to stand by her side—even in the face of her disapproving family.
Please hear me when I say this—I am absolutely obsessed with Cassidy Hudspeth’s books! If you take any book recommendation from me, let it be both of her novels. Red Summer had me completely enthralled, and I devoured it in less than 24 hours. Every element of this story—the romance, the character dynamics, the emotions—was executed flawlessly, making it one of my favorite reads of the year.
The heart of the novel is the relationship between Ophelia and James, and I loved everything about them. Ophelia was an incredible FMC—her upbringing may have left her unsure of how to receive love, but she was still independent, strong-minded, and determined to carve out her own path. And then there’s James… my goodness. He is pure perfection. He knows exactly what he’s doing—whether it’s the way he speaks, the way he carries himself, or the way he sees Ophelia in a way no one else ever has. The moment he stood up to her parents? Absolutely iconic. That entire scene was perfection, and there was one line he said that had my jaw on the floor. I had to reread it multiple times just to make sure I really saw what he had just said—to her father, no less! James is the definition of masculine confidence, and I loved every second of his presence on the page.
One of the things I appreciated most about this book was the way Ophelia and James communicated. Their relationship was built on mutual respect and understanding, and there was no unnecessary miscommunication or forced drama. If there’s one thing that frustrates me in romance novels, it’s the miscommunication trope—but thankfully, Red Summer avoids that entirely. Instead, we get a beautifully developed relationship filled with tension, chemistry, and just the right amount of jealousy and possessiveness from James. And let me tell you, it was chef’s kiss.
And of course, we have to talk about the spice. Just…YES. Cassidy Hudspeth knows how to write a phenomenal romance, but she also knows how to write incredible spice. Every scene was done so well—steamy, intimate, and undeniably captivating.
I cannot recommend Red Summer enough. I am beyond excited to see what Cassidy Hudspeth writes next, because I will definitely be reading it!
5⭐️ | 4🌶️
This is a passionate, emotionally charged romance that follows Ophelia and James as they navigate love, personal struggles, and the challenges that come with their undeniable connection. Ophelia comes from a cold, unloving family, which has shaped her understanding of relationships, but she remains strong-willed and independent despite it all. James, on the other hand, is confident, charismatic, and utterly devoted to Ophelia, proving time and again that he’s willing to stand by her side—even in the face of her disapproving family.
Please hear me when I say this—I am absolutely obsessed with Cassidy Hudspeth’s books! If you take any book recommendation from me, let it be both of her novels. Red Summer had me completely enthralled, and I devoured it in less than 24 hours. Every element of this story—the romance, the character dynamics, the emotions—was executed flawlessly, making it one of my favorite reads of the year.
The heart of the novel is the relationship between Ophelia and James, and I loved everything about them. Ophelia was an incredible FMC—her upbringing may have left her unsure of how to receive love, but she was still independent, strong-minded, and determined to carve out her own path. And then there’s James… my goodness. He is pure perfection. He knows exactly what he’s doing—whether it’s the way he speaks, the way he carries himself, or the way he sees Ophelia in a way no one else ever has. The moment he stood up to her parents? Absolutely iconic. That entire scene was perfection, and there was one line he said that had my jaw on the floor. I had to reread it multiple times just to make sure I really saw what he had just said—to her father, no less! James is the definition of masculine confidence, and I loved every second of his presence on the page.
One of the things I appreciated most about this book was the way Ophelia and James communicated. Their relationship was built on mutual respect and understanding, and there was no unnecessary miscommunication or forced drama. If there’s one thing that frustrates me in romance novels, it’s the miscommunication trope—but thankfully, Red Summer avoids that entirely. Instead, we get a beautifully developed relationship filled with tension, chemistry, and just the right amount of jealousy and possessiveness from James. And let me tell you, it was chef’s kiss.
And of course, we have to talk about the spice. Just…YES. Cassidy Hudspeth knows how to write a phenomenal romance, but she also knows how to write incredible spice. Every scene was done so well—steamy, intimate, and undeniably captivating.
I cannot recommend Red Summer enough. I am beyond excited to see what Cassidy Hudspeth writes next, because I will definitely be reading it!
July 24, 2023
Red Summer is a friends to lovers romance novel following the sweet and spicy relationship between Ophelia Clark and James Benton. They’re at different points in their lives— settling on a “friends with benefits” stipulation that deems nearly impossible to hold as the pair grows closer.
Tropes:
— age gap romance (13 years)
— brief strangers to friends to lovers
— friends with benefits
— mutual pining
— he falls first
— summer romance
— open door romance
— fast burn physically/slow burn emotionally
Content Warnings:
— praise kink
— age gap (13 years)
— alcohol use
— explicit language
— emotional abuse
— family/parental issues
— anxiety topics
— explicit sexual scenes
— mention of divorce
— mention of death, trauma, car accidents
Tropes:
— age gap romance (13 years)
— brief strangers to friends to lovers
— friends with benefits
— mutual pining
— he falls first
— summer romance
— open door romance
— fast burn physically/slow burn emotionally
Content Warnings:
— praise kink
— age gap (13 years)
— alcohol use
— explicit language
— emotional abuse
— family/parental issues
— anxiety topics
— explicit sexual scenes
— mention of divorce
— mention of death, trauma, car accidents
August 29, 2023
This was a decent read! It's the author's first book (slayyyy we love our indie authors!!!!) and I am so fortunate to have gotten an arc of it. First the positives: there are so many iconic quotes, I enjoyed the storyline, and the balance of spice to plot ratio was perfect. I think my only complaint is that the writing style wasn't quite my cup of tea. It is in first person (love that for me) and there were wonderful quotes, but the chapters overall didn't read super smoothly for me. I went between dragging through it and being completely enthralled and it was a bumpy back and forth as a reader. I truly think that this author has what it takes to be successful in this industry and with a few more books under her belt in the future, would have a more developed writing style that I would enjoy. I personally wouldn't reread it or openly recommend it to friends but I'd be interested in talking to others about their opinions and would read another book by this author to see how her writing develops!
August 29, 2023
This was a super cute read! Definitely gave me summer vibes!
Ophelia was an amazing FMC. She was strong minded and independent. She comes from a wealthy background but she never relies on it, and would rather come from any other family background.
James is swoonworthy. He knows how to talk the talk and can definitely walk the walk. The way he loves and cares for Ophelia had me weak at the knees. I love him. The way he stood up to her parents for her was so admirable.
I loved Wren SO much. She was the best friend ever! One of my favourite side characters I’ve read about. I need to know about her future!
Also that bonus chapter! I absolutely loved it and it warmed my heart reading it!
I really enjoyed this book so much and can’t wait to read more from Cassidy. She has some really exciting things coming up, make sure you stick around to find out!
Thank you to Cassidy for the ARC.
Ophelia was an amazing FMC. She was strong minded and independent. She comes from a wealthy background but she never relies on it, and would rather come from any other family background.
James is swoonworthy. He knows how to talk the talk and can definitely walk the walk. The way he loves and cares for Ophelia had me weak at the knees. I love him. The way he stood up to her parents for her was so admirable.
I loved Wren SO much. She was the best friend ever! One of my favourite side characters I’ve read about. I need to know about her future!
Also that bonus chapter! I absolutely loved it and it warmed my heart reading it!
I really enjoyed this book so much and can’t wait to read more from Cassidy. She has some really exciting things coming up, make sure you stick around to find out!
Thank you to Cassidy for the ARC.
January 7, 2024
"I love how I feel when I'm with you.”
"And how do you feel?"
"I feel like I'm home."
This was cute, spicy, and even emotional when you saw what type of parents Ophelia had to deal with. I’m not usually a fan of insta love types of situations, but the chemistry between Ophelia and James was so strong that it worked well. I loved how supportive and protective James was. I also loved how well he communicated whenever he’s ex-wife came in the picture. I felt for Ophelia while she dealt with her controlling parents, but loved seeing James take up for her. I feel like even with the age gap, they balanced each other out well. I also loved that James went to speak with Ophelia’s mother and the way that situation ended up playing out. Overall, it was super cute and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Tropes:
Age gap
Friends with benefits to lovers
He falls first
Summer fling/romance
"And how do you feel?"
"I feel like I'm home."
This was cute, spicy, and even emotional when you saw what type of parents Ophelia had to deal with. I’m not usually a fan of insta love types of situations, but the chemistry between Ophelia and James was so strong that it worked well. I loved how supportive and protective James was. I also loved how well he communicated whenever he’s ex-wife came in the picture. I felt for Ophelia while she dealt with her controlling parents, but loved seeing James take up for her. I feel like even with the age gap, they balanced each other out well. I also loved that James went to speak with Ophelia’s mother and the way that situation ended up playing out. Overall, it was super cute and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Tropes:
Age gap
Friends with benefits to lovers
He falls first
Summer fling/romance
September 23, 2023
4.75/5 ⭐️
The amount of feelings I felt while reading this is insane.
It’s also so crazy to think that this was Cassidy’s debut novel. It’s so good and honestly I wish I could read it for the first time again.
I loved loved LOVED Lia (Ophelia). She’s so relatable but also realistic. I loved how she didn’t say “I like to please people” and ended with that. She got into the specifics and showed us how she’s a people pleaser even before she understood it herself.
Her relationship with her parents made me cry. I did kinda hope to see what happened in the end with them all and if they’re okay and I’m good terms.
I loved Wren and I wish she was my friend as well. Watching her and Sean’s story throughout the book was so lovely and beautiful. I love how their story ended.
James is probably one of my fav book bf ever. The way he talks about her and to her just makes me melt. “You’re the best person I’ve ever known, Ophelia Clark. My favourite girl. My Lia. I’ll love you in every lifetime, ever universe, every afterlife…”
Also I loved the plot. I love romance but I also find rare romance books that I like that don’t have a plot as well. But this one was perfect.
I normally wouldn’t have chose this book as something I’d read because the tropes are usually tropes that I avoid but Cassidy made it so perfect and so well written that I just loved it.
This love story is truly unique and heartbreaking. I didn’t think that it’ll break me and heal me like it did. It looks and seems like a fun little rom com (it is) but it also broke my heart and made me feel so many emotions.
I loved every part of this. Wether it was the sad times, happy times, steamy times. I loved it. I adored it. It’s such a beautiful story.
Tropes:
Age gap.
Fast burn.
“Good girl”
Strangers to friends with benefits to lovers.
“Sober, drunk, in every lifetime. Nothing will change how much I’ll always need you, Ophelia”
“He was still marveling at her like she was a rare diamond that he couldn’t take his eyes off of”
“Because you had me so wrapped up around your finger since the night that I met you that I would have agreed to anything to just be around you, Ophelia”
“For the first time in a long time, the overbearing weight that sat on her shoulders had lifted”
The amount of feelings I felt while reading this is insane.
It’s also so crazy to think that this was Cassidy’s debut novel. It’s so good and honestly I wish I could read it for the first time again.
I loved loved LOVED Lia (Ophelia). She’s so relatable but also realistic. I loved how she didn’t say “I like to please people” and ended with that. She got into the specifics and showed us how she’s a people pleaser even before she understood it herself.
Her relationship with her parents made me cry. I did kinda hope to see what happened in the end with them all and if they’re okay and I’m good terms.
I loved Wren and I wish she was my friend as well. Watching her and Sean’s story throughout the book was so lovely and beautiful. I love how their story ended.
James is probably one of my fav book bf ever. The way he talks about her and to her just makes me melt. “You’re the best person I’ve ever known, Ophelia Clark. My favourite girl. My Lia. I’ll love you in every lifetime, ever universe, every afterlife…”
Also I loved the plot. I love romance but I also find rare romance books that I like that don’t have a plot as well. But this one was perfect.
I normally wouldn’t have chose this book as something I’d read because the tropes are usually tropes that I avoid but Cassidy made it so perfect and so well written that I just loved it.
This love story is truly unique and heartbreaking. I didn’t think that it’ll break me and heal me like it did. It looks and seems like a fun little rom com (it is) but it also broke my heart and made me feel so many emotions.
I loved every part of this. Wether it was the sad times, happy times, steamy times. I loved it. I adored it. It’s such a beautiful story.
Tropes:
Age gap.
Fast burn.
“Good girl”
Strangers to friends with benefits to lovers.
“Sober, drunk, in every lifetime. Nothing will change how much I’ll always need you, Ophelia”
“He was still marveling at her like she was a rare diamond that he couldn’t take his eyes off of”
“Because you had me so wrapped up around your finger since the night that I met you that I would have agreed to anything to just be around you, Ophelia”
“For the first time in a long time, the overbearing weight that sat on her shoulders had lifted”
September 14, 2023
whoever rated this above a 1 is on a 3rd grade reading level
September 15, 2023
ummm WOW. honestly I was not expecting to completely fall in this love with this book as much as I did. James and Ophelia are actually perfect puzzle pieces for each other. I am not a fan of 3rd person writing however, this was so well written I honestly didn't even think twice about it. Cassidy did such a great job connecting us to her characters and falling in love with them! I got to ARC read this and I am so lucky!!!!
April 3, 2025
ophelia enters james' bar for the first time by chance, after having sworn not to give men a chance anymore, after yet another disappointment.
although between the two it's immediately noticeable a bond, they decide to keep the relationship simple and to classify it as a summer fling.
despite the difference in age, the different experiences and the fact that they're in two different moments of their lives, james and ophelia soon realize that they're each other's soul mates. this makes the separation even more difficult, when she has to go back to college in the fall.
the relationship between the two protagonists is pure and sincere, kept transparent by the constant communication of their emotions and feelings, they bring out the best sides of each other and accept the flaws (like when ophelia says that the scar on james' arm makes him more charming, even if he's afraid of scaring people).
wren (ophelia's best friend) is so sweet and cute, everything we want in our best friend, she encourages her to pursue her desires and most importantly, express them. I hope to know how her story with sean ends.
although between the two it's immediately noticeable a bond, they decide to keep the relationship simple and to classify it as a summer fling.
despite the difference in age, the different experiences and the fact that they're in two different moments of their lives, james and ophelia soon realize that they're each other's soul mates. this makes the separation even more difficult, when she has to go back to college in the fall.
the relationship between the two protagonists is pure and sincere, kept transparent by the constant communication of their emotions and feelings, they bring out the best sides of each other and accept the flaws (like when ophelia says that the scar on james' arm makes him more charming, even if he's afraid of scaring people).
wren (ophelia's best friend) is so sweet and cute, everything we want in our best friend, she encourages her to pursue her desires and most importantly, express them. I hope to know how her story with sean ends.
September 12, 2023
Everything in this book happened so fast and at the same time, NOTHING HAPPENS.
Characters were boring, literally no plot, spice was not enough to save this book, very bland ending and the “bonus” chapter that literally just repeats everything from chapter 1 word for word added nothing to the book.
I have nothing against age gap tropes but this grown ass man was in love with a 21 year old after one night??? PLS WHAT IS HAPPENING
Characters were boring, literally no plot, spice was not enough to save this book, very bland ending and the “bonus” chapter that literally just repeats everything from chapter 1 word for word added nothing to the book.
I have nothing against age gap tropes but this grown ass man was in love with a 21 year old after one night??? PLS WHAT IS HAPPENING
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2023
ARC. Full review on Amazon.
August 17, 2023
This book feels like a wholesome and loving relationship that you want for all your besties.
Ophelia comes from a family who has never shown her love or how to be loved. She meets James and he only wants to take care of her and make sure she knows how much she means to the world.
They start their relationship both reluctant for their own reasons. James is worried about the age gap. But Ophelia is worried about catching feelings.
Fast forward just a few interactions. And James is learning to overcome the age gap. But Ophelia still struggles with both receiving the care and concern from James as well as accepting she has feelings for him too.
The way they communicate and talk through everything is healthy and makes sure to avoid any miscommunication about things going on. James laughs, cries, shares his vulnerabilities. It’s refreshing to see a strong masculine character have such complex feelings and letting them be known.
This book had me crying for both characters. Heart breaking with them. And then slowing rebuilding as they rebuilt their broken hearts together.
I enjoyed this book. Flew through the pages because I needed to know how everything turned out.
And the MCs best friends. Sean and Wren. Such great companion characters to enhance and build the story.
I received an ARC of this for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Ophelia comes from a family who has never shown her love or how to be loved. She meets James and he only wants to take care of her and make sure she knows how much she means to the world.
They start their relationship both reluctant for their own reasons. James is worried about the age gap. But Ophelia is worried about catching feelings.
Fast forward just a few interactions. And James is learning to overcome the age gap. But Ophelia still struggles with both receiving the care and concern from James as well as accepting she has feelings for him too.
The way they communicate and talk through everything is healthy and makes sure to avoid any miscommunication about things going on. James laughs, cries, shares his vulnerabilities. It’s refreshing to see a strong masculine character have such complex feelings and letting them be known.
This book had me crying for both characters. Heart breaking with them. And then slowing rebuilding as they rebuilt their broken hearts together.
I enjoyed this book. Flew through the pages because I needed to know how everything turned out.
And the MCs best friends. Sean and Wren. Such great companion characters to enhance and build the story.
I received an ARC of this for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
October 13, 2023
DNF @ 22%
I just couldn't. I tried. But I couldn't.
I hate writing this review because it feels harsh and I read this is a debut book but I have to. I was deceived by IG into reading this and I was sold an epic love story and a new 11/10 book BF and oh boy, were they lying. I am actually upset 🤣
There's SPOILERS here but, as I said, I only made it to 22% so take that with a grain of salt.
It's not friends to lovers. It just makes no sense. I couldn't even. If I had to, I would say it's an insta-lust story.
He works in a bar he owns. She comes in after a date she leaves early and starts drinking on her own and this is (paraphrasing) the actual conversation they have:
"How are you getting home? "
"I'll call an Uber"
"Do you really trust a stranger to get you home?... I'll take you"
"OK"
I MEAN... A stranger Uber driver is unsafe, let me have this stranger from a bar drive me home instead?!
He works (again, IN A STUFFY BAR) wearing a leather jacket all the time because he has a scarred arm he has a complex about but an hour after meeting this girl he shows her, she tells him it looks cool and from then on he just shows his arm about because "someone told him it looks cool".
Also, second time they meet he says he is too old for her, better be just friends so she goes home to her BFF and they organize a bikini car washto make him jealous to fundraise for his bar and invite a bunch of college guys and "this GROWN ASS MAN YOU JUST MET is either going to kill someone or jump your bones. it's perfect" 💦🚗💦
All this at just 22%. My eyes hurt from rolling so much. I just... the cringe is strong with this one. I read reviews that say the 🌶 is on point and I tried to get to the spice, but I just couldn't make myself keep reading.
I just couldn't. I tried. But I couldn't.
I hate writing this review because it feels harsh and I read this is a debut book but I have to. I was deceived by IG into reading this and I was sold an epic love story and a new 11/10 book BF and oh boy, were they lying. I am actually upset 🤣
There's SPOILERS here but, as I said, I only made it to 22% so take that with a grain of salt.
It's not friends to lovers. It just makes no sense. I couldn't even. If I had to, I would say it's an insta-lust story.
He works in a bar he owns. She comes in after a date she leaves early and starts drinking on her own and this is (paraphrasing) the actual conversation they have:
"How are you getting home? "
"I'll call an Uber"
"Do you really trust a stranger to get you home?... I'll take you"
"OK"
I MEAN... A stranger Uber driver is unsafe, let me have this stranger from a bar drive me home instead?!
He works (again, IN A STUFFY BAR) wearing a leather jacket all the time because he has a scarred arm he has a complex about but an hour after meeting this girl he shows her, she tells him it looks cool and from then on he just shows his arm about because "someone told him it looks cool".
Also, second time they meet he says he is too old for her, better be just friends so she goes home to her BFF and they organize a bikini car wash
All this at just 22%. My eyes hurt from rolling so much. I just... the cringe is strong with this one. I read reviews that say the 🌶 is on point and I tried to get to the spice, but I just couldn't make myself keep reading.
August 28, 2023
4.5/5 ⭐️
"You can deny it all you want, baby. But I can read you like an open book"
Honestly I was hooked since the beginning, James and Ophelia did not disappoint I even finished the book in one sitting, Cassidy knew how to keep me pulling an all nighter just to finish!
Red Summer is a friends to lovers age gap romance, with angst, spice and sweet moments that will leave you swooning and that follows the story of Ophelia and James who meet in a bar after the horrible date Ophelia had, they are attracted to each other at first but as you continue reading their connection starts growing slowly and so perfectly, it gives you the time to connect with them and leaves you wanting more.
James and Ophelia served the perfect amount of sweet and spice, James was so cute and so hot at the same time he always notices the littlest things about Ophelia 😭😭 which leaves her melting on the floor (honestly same) their communication ???? perfect and the way they complement each other ?? perfect again.
I enjoyed this book so much, and I hope y’all do it too if you decide to give it a try! Thank you so so much Cassidy for the e-arc provided! Wishing you everything great on your release date <3
"You can deny it all you want, baby. But I can read you like an open book"
Honestly I was hooked since the beginning, James and Ophelia did not disappoint I even finished the book in one sitting, Cassidy knew how to keep me pulling an all nighter just to finish!
Red Summer is a friends to lovers age gap romance, with angst, spice and sweet moments that will leave you swooning and that follows the story of Ophelia and James who meet in a bar after the horrible date Ophelia had, they are attracted to each other at first but as you continue reading their connection starts growing slowly and so perfectly, it gives you the time to connect with them and leaves you wanting more.
James and Ophelia served the perfect amount of sweet and spice, James was so cute and so hot at the same time he always notices the littlest things about Ophelia 😭😭 which leaves her melting on the floor (honestly same) their communication ???? perfect and the way they complement each other ?? perfect again.
I enjoyed this book so much, and I hope y’all do it too if you decide to give it a try! Thank you so so much Cassidy for the e-arc provided! Wishing you everything great on your release date <3
December 12, 2023
I really liked this. It was a fun and quick read for me. I thought the pacing could have been a little better, or a bit more cohesive. I wanted a bit more banter, and development of the "friends" side of it. Don't get me wrong, the "benefits" was absolute fire. I would have loved more of a build up to it. But overall I had a good time reading this.
Tropes:
-Fast Burn
-Praise
-He fall first/ Pining
I truly enjoyed the chemistry between James and Ophelia. And my GAWD that man's dirty, sexy mouth! The spice was so steamy and so, just, *chef's kiss.*
I found their romance and relationship very cute. Ophelia may have had her immature moments, but honestly, I was not any more mature at 21, so I can't really say I would have acted differently. I would have liked a little more drama, more angsty build up to their romance, but I can't deny that I really enjoyed how quickly he was her support and they really built each other up. It definitely gave me the warm and fuzzies a few times while reading it.
Ultimately I enjoyed reading this, and will definitely be reading more from Cassidy!
Tropes:
-Fast Burn
-Praise
-He fall first/ Pining
I truly enjoyed the chemistry between James and Ophelia. And my GAWD that man's dirty, sexy mouth! The spice was so steamy and so, just, *chef's kiss.*
I found their romance and relationship very cute. Ophelia may have had her immature moments, but honestly, I was not any more mature at 21, so I can't really say I would have acted differently. I would have liked a little more drama, more angsty build up to their romance, but I can't deny that I really enjoyed how quickly he was her support and they really built each other up. It definitely gave me the warm and fuzzies a few times while reading it.
Ultimately I enjoyed reading this, and will definitely be reading more from Cassidy!
February 2, 2024
"𝑰 𝒎𝒂𝒚 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒚𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖. "
I just finished this one. What a great little romance story this was. The main characters had blazing chemistry and the mature scenes were written extremely well. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. There were just enough emotional moments to keep me intrigued.
I found this author on Threads and I am glad I gave it a shot. It's not exactly friends to lovers but more like an insta love. But I love insta love, and the age gap didn't bother me much. I definitely loved James a lot and also enjoyed reading about Wren. I could relate to Lia a lot because I also have issues with my parents. So it was easy to fall in love with this story.
Overall, a great romance read :)
I just finished this one. What a great little romance story this was. The main characters had blazing chemistry and the mature scenes were written extremely well. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one. There were just enough emotional moments to keep me intrigued.
I found this author on Threads and I am glad I gave it a shot. It's not exactly friends to lovers but more like an insta love. But I love insta love, and the age gap didn't bother me much. I definitely loved James a lot and also enjoyed reading about Wren. I could relate to Lia a lot because I also have issues with my parents. So it was easy to fall in love with this story.
Overall, a great romance read :)
August 17, 2023
Oh my god, I ATE this book UP!!
I don’t know what was put in this book but I was OBSESSED; I couldn’t put it down and I finished it in less than two days!
The only reason it was 4 stars and not 5 was because of the writing style (3rd person) which isn’t a favourite of mine usually - however I must say it was SO well done in this instance!!
The SPICE 🌶️😮💨🤌🏼 was top tier! It had me blushing in public!
I absolutely loved the flirty banter and teasing between Ophelia and James and oh my the innuendos had me giggling 🤭
As well as being the Hot af MMC covered in tattoos and scars, who wears rings and chains daily🤤 he’s bossy, protective, possessive and dominating when he wants to be😏 He also has a heart of pure gold and would do anything for Ophelia, including standing up to her AWFUL parents! He’s totally swoon worthy.
I loved the communication between both him and Ophelia, they pushed each other in the right way to open up and learn to be free and happy. It was a rollercoaster of emotions too, I laughed, giggled, blushed and cried!
"The world could be ending, and I could be on my last breath, but I would still be here to hold you. I may not be strong enough for myself, but I will always be strong enough for you."
I highly recommend reading this book!
Thank you SO MUCH Cassidy for the ARC - I loved it and am so grateful for the opportunity to have read this ❤️
I don’t know what was put in this book but I was OBSESSED; I couldn’t put it down and I finished it in less than two days!
The only reason it was 4 stars and not 5 was because of the writing style (3rd person) which isn’t a favourite of mine usually - however I must say it was SO well done in this instance!!
The SPICE 🌶️😮💨🤌🏼 was top tier! It had me blushing in public!
I absolutely loved the flirty banter and teasing between Ophelia and James and oh my the innuendos had me giggling 🤭
As well as being the Hot af MMC covered in tattoos and scars, who wears rings and chains daily🤤 he’s bossy, protective, possessive and dominating when he wants to be😏 He also has a heart of pure gold and would do anything for Ophelia, including standing up to her AWFUL parents! He’s totally swoon worthy.
I loved the communication between both him and Ophelia, they pushed each other in the right way to open up and learn to be free and happy. It was a rollercoaster of emotions too, I laughed, giggled, blushed and cried!
"The world could be ending, and I could be on my last breath, but I would still be here to hold you. I may not be strong enough for myself, but I will always be strong enough for you."
I highly recommend reading this book!
Thank you SO MUCH Cassidy for the ARC - I loved it and am so grateful for the opportunity to have read this ❤️
November 4, 2023
It’s been a little while since I’ve been 21, but I tried to put myself in the shoes of Ophelia for this novel and I think that’s what made me love the story so much. All she’s doing is trying to impress her parents, which she’s been trying to do for years, and here comes James…. And BAM, her whole word shifts.
Super fun read, very spicy for me (!!!!) — I’d recommend reading this! Makes me wish it was summertime 🥹
Super fun read, very spicy for me (!!!!) — I’d recommend reading this! Makes me wish it was summertime 🥹
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