What do you think?
Rate this book
Forbid Me Not
After breaking up with her high school sweetheart, Avery Moore transferred colleges to be closer to her brother and best friend. There, she began to recover from everything her ex did to her. What she wasn't expecting though, was a secret one-night stand with her brother's best friend to turn into something more. Something she didn't think she was ready to handle.
Reid Rathe is often taken for a stuck-up rich kid. But when he met Avery, she didn’t see him as that guy. To her, he was just an ordinary college kid, someone she ‘picked out’ at a party to fulfill a ‘need’. However, one night together was all it took for him to start falling for her.
Therein lay the problem, because according to his best friend - her brother - she was completely off-limits and he was forbidden from pursuing her.
Reid Rathe is often taken for a stuck-up rich kid. But when he met Avery, she didn’t see him as that guy. To her, he was just an ordinary college kid, someone she ‘picked out’ at a party to fulfill a ‘need’. However, one night together was all it took for him to start falling for her.
Therein lay the problem, because according to his best friend - her brother - she was completely off-limits and he was forbidden from pursuing her.
- GenresCollege Romance
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 14, 2023
42 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
April 28, 2024
Star Rating: 5/5 ⭐
Spice Rating: 3/5 🌶️
Audiobook 5/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- College Romance
- Forbidden Romance
- Secret Relationship
- Curvy FMC
- Brother's Best Friend
- Insta-Love
- He Falls First
D.V. Fischer has impressed me yet again, and Forbid Me Not did not disappoint. I devoured this book. This story is realistic and believable. After leaving a toxic relationship, Avery Moore moves to be closer to her best friend and brother. Unfortunately, Avery's terrible ex made her feel uncomfortable in her skin, and she struggles with body image issues. When she meets Reid Rathe, her brother's best friend, she can't fathom why he would be interested in her. Reid falls hard for Avery and genuinely feels she is beautiful. Reid never gives up and wants Avery to be his forever.
The character development in this story is amazing! Although Reid is from a wealthy family, he is down-to-earth and kindhearted. Avery is likable, and her struggles with body image are very relatable. She is the type of character I could easily be friends with. I loved Reid and Avery's undeniable connection, and their chemistry was palpable. I was rooting for them! Their relationship had ups and downs, but they were meant to be together. Forbid Me Not is a well-written and captivating story that explores personal insecurities, complex family dynamics, friendship, and self-discovery. This was an enjoyable read, and I highly recommend this book. I can't wait to read more from D.V. Fischer.
NARRATION:
Rylee Forrester narrated this story. This is my first time listening to this narrator, and honestly, her voice is perfect. Rylee really brought the characters to life and made it impossible for me to put this book down. Although I generally prefer dual narration, Rylee did a fantastic job voicing both the female and male characters.
Thanks to D.V. Fischer for providing copies of the ebook and audiobook for review. Opinions expressed are my own.
Spice Rating: 3/5 🌶️
Audiobook 5/5 🎧
What to Expect:
- College Romance
- Forbidden Romance
- Secret Relationship
- Curvy FMC
- Brother's Best Friend
- Insta-Love
- He Falls First
D.V. Fischer has impressed me yet again, and Forbid Me Not did not disappoint. I devoured this book. This story is realistic and believable. After leaving a toxic relationship, Avery Moore moves to be closer to her best friend and brother. Unfortunately, Avery's terrible ex made her feel uncomfortable in her skin, and she struggles with body image issues. When she meets Reid Rathe, her brother's best friend, she can't fathom why he would be interested in her. Reid falls hard for Avery and genuinely feels she is beautiful. Reid never gives up and wants Avery to be his forever.
The character development in this story is amazing! Although Reid is from a wealthy family, he is down-to-earth and kindhearted. Avery is likable, and her struggles with body image are very relatable. She is the type of character I could easily be friends with. I loved Reid and Avery's undeniable connection, and their chemistry was palpable. I was rooting for them! Their relationship had ups and downs, but they were meant to be together. Forbid Me Not is a well-written and captivating story that explores personal insecurities, complex family dynamics, friendship, and self-discovery. This was an enjoyable read, and I highly recommend this book. I can't wait to read more from D.V. Fischer.
NARRATION:
Rylee Forrester narrated this story. This is my first time listening to this narrator, and honestly, her voice is perfect. Rylee really brought the characters to life and made it impossible for me to put this book down. Although I generally prefer dual narration, Rylee did a fantastic job voicing both the female and male characters.
Thanks to D.V. Fischer for providing copies of the ebook and audiobook for review. Opinions expressed are my own.
February 20, 2026
DV Fisher takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions with many relatable moments. You get to know the characters really well thanks to her bird's-eye view. You're captivated from the start and don't let go right away. The story is well-structured, and the emotions are depicted very realistically.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book again. The spicy scenes are very manageable and not overly detailed.
Her writing style is fluid, making it a fast read.
I recommend her books to anyone who enjoys dark romance. I'm already looking forward to her next book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book again. The spicy scenes are very manageable and not overly detailed.
Her writing style is fluid, making it a fast read.
I recommend her books to anyone who enjoys dark romance. I'm already looking forward to her next book.
April 10, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. Avery gets out of a controlling and just downright toxic relationship and moves back home to be near family and finish out college. While trying to recover and rediscover herself she meets Reid, her brothers best friend. Reid is constantly going out of his way to make sure she feels seen and tries to win her over from day one. I was absolutely gripped by their story and my heart hurt for them! I think Reid surpasses my love of Cole in Bed of Roses also by this author. I might totally need Jacob and Jill’s story though, I loved the pieces of them we got !!!!!
did-not-finish
March 4, 2026The way this book started out was just not for me, so this is sadly a DNF.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think the bright orange cover suits the mostly light hearted, flirty vibe of the book really well. The style of the writing of the title and the lips just like you’d draw/write on a college textbook back in the day!
Forbid Me Not is about a group of friends, Dustin & his girlfriend Ivy, his best friend Reid and his other friend Jacob who are at college together. Dustin’s sister Avery has just transferred to a college nearer home and her family after a breakup with her long term boyfriend. Avery had thought he was 'the one' but the once sweet romance they had together in high school turned into a controlling one and when he calls Avery fat, it cuts deep, though that’s not the only reason for the nasty breakup. Her ex has really knocked her confidence, to the point she feels no one will find her attractive.
Avery moves into a college campus apartment with Ivy who may be her brother’s girlfriend but is also a best friend and confidante to Avery. The apartment is opposite her brother Dustin’s apartment that he shares with a quieter, more reserved non partying guy at the beginning of the book though that changes as the book goes on.
Avery's brother Dustin decides to throw a party at his college apartment to welcome his sister and introduce her to his friends. Her brother’s friend Jacob has a seriously heavy hand with the alcohol and has filled her cup to the brim. Her best friend and brother Dustin's girlfriend, Ivy has wandered off as usual being a social butterfly, so Avery finds herself feeling a little lonely and a lot tipsy. Whilst dancing she loses her balance and is caught by a gorgeous hunk, he asks her name and she blurts out Sarah, just in case the hunk thinks Dustin’s sister is off limits. They have an instant attraction and they end up kissing. One thing leads to another and they end up having a one-night stand, have sex over in Avery & Ivys apartment across the hall from the party. When a heavily hung over Avery wakes up the hunk has left leaving Avery feeling a bit disappointed, a little ashamed at having had sex with a guy whose name she didn't even know. Then she shakes it off, thinking she is highly unlikely to even see the guy again, and so what she had sex, she's a newly single woman why shouldn't she have a little fun.
Later whilst at her brother apartment, a guy walks in and Dustin introduces him as his best friend Reid. When Avery looks up to say hi to Reid she locks eyes with the hunk she had sex with, the one she'd told her name was Sarah. Avery is worried what Reid is going to say but he simply smirks, tells her Avery is a pretty name and keeps their one night stand a secret.
Despite knowing Dustin won't like it, Reid pursues a relationship with Avery, slowly gaining her trust, building up her confidence, showering her with compliments, eventually winning her over. The continue meeting in secret right under Dustins nose with Ivy and Jacob keeping their secret whilst warning that they can't keep the fact they're together a secret forever.
Deep down Avery knows that if it comes to a choice between Reid and her brother Dustin, though it would break her heart she'd always choose her brother.
Would Dustin really want to step in the way of his sister Avery and best friend Reids happiness though?
I loved the writing style of this one, it was a steady but constant pace, it really drew you in and you quickly became invested in Avery’s happiness and wanting to know exactly what her ex had done to her to break her heart, seriously knock her confidence and make her swear off dating! Then there’s Reid who isn’t a stranger to heartbreak himself with his last girlfriend being more interested in his money and what his family could do for her than their relationship.
I loved the sections in the book where Avery was arguing with herself about what she should or shouldn’t do. Second guessing her own actions, like we all do at times. This also made her all the more relatable.
This one definitely hits you emotionally, lets just say after reading Forbid Me Not and discovering how caring and considerate he was we all need a Reid Rathe in our lives.
That’s not saying the other two guys in the book aren’t swoon worthy, Dustin is definitely committed to his relationship with Ivy though he may not know it I think Ivy is the one in charge! Jacob starts out the typical love ‘em and leave ‘em type, in fact he doesn’t always get a name or a number!! He then sees Dustin and Reids relationships and starts to warm to the idea of having a more, steady relationship himself, so we do see Jacob develop as time goes on. I should say that though Jacob is friends with Dustin he is a really good friend to Avery too, and who knows if Reid hadn’t been on the scene she could have been the girl to change him, if Dustin had allowed Jacob near her in the first place.
I have to admit there were certain sections in the book I was internally shouting “just tell him!” and then there were also parts where I wanted to get hold of Dustin and give him a really hard shake and tell him to stop being so selfish! You’ll know which bits I mean when you read the book.
The book did remind me of my younger days, late teens, flirting, the banter, the laughs and yes, the unrequited love and heartbreaks. I think that’s one of the reasons that the book is so good as a reader you can so easily identify with Avery. It brought back some good fun memories as well as some not so great ones too! The whole part of the plot of the protective brother and secret love made me think of my own parents “love story” my dad being best friends with my mums brother and my mum singing the song “Secret Love by Doris Day” and I couldn’t get the song out of my head until I had finished the book!
My initial thoughts upon finishing the book were Wow, I really enjoyed that! A real “feel good” book. A message to all that have gone through heartbreak that perhaps there’s just the right caring guy out there!
Summing up I don’t read a whole lot of contemporary, flirty romance type books but I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one and I have to admit a little sad when it ended. I loved the characters. I enjoyed being irritated by Reids parents wanting to set him up in an arranged marriage when he clearly stated he had no feelings for the girl they had chosen for him. I was sorry to be saying goodbye to Avery, Ivy, Dustin, Reid & Jacob when the book ended. I’d definitely read more of this genre by this author!
Forbid Me Not is about a group of friends, Dustin & his girlfriend Ivy, his best friend Reid and his other friend Jacob who are at college together. Dustin’s sister Avery has just transferred to a college nearer home and her family after a breakup with her long term boyfriend. Avery had thought he was 'the one' but the once sweet romance they had together in high school turned into a controlling one and when he calls Avery fat, it cuts deep, though that’s not the only reason for the nasty breakup. Her ex has really knocked her confidence, to the point she feels no one will find her attractive.
Avery moves into a college campus apartment with Ivy who may be her brother’s girlfriend but is also a best friend and confidante to Avery. The apartment is opposite her brother Dustin’s apartment that he shares with a quieter, more reserved non partying guy at the beginning of the book though that changes as the book goes on.
Avery's brother Dustin decides to throw a party at his college apartment to welcome his sister and introduce her to his friends. Her brother’s friend Jacob has a seriously heavy hand with the alcohol and has filled her cup to the brim. Her best friend and brother Dustin's girlfriend, Ivy has wandered off as usual being a social butterfly, so Avery finds herself feeling a little lonely and a lot tipsy. Whilst dancing she loses her balance and is caught by a gorgeous hunk, he asks her name and she blurts out Sarah, just in case the hunk thinks Dustin’s sister is off limits. They have an instant attraction and they end up kissing. One thing leads to another and they end up having a one-night stand, have sex over in Avery & Ivys apartment across the hall from the party. When a heavily hung over Avery wakes up the hunk has left leaving Avery feeling a bit disappointed, a little ashamed at having had sex with a guy whose name she didn't even know. Then she shakes it off, thinking she is highly unlikely to even see the guy again, and so what she had sex, she's a newly single woman why shouldn't she have a little fun.
Later whilst at her brother apartment, a guy walks in and Dustin introduces him as his best friend Reid. When Avery looks up to say hi to Reid she locks eyes with the hunk she had sex with, the one she'd told her name was Sarah. Avery is worried what Reid is going to say but he simply smirks, tells her Avery is a pretty name and keeps their one night stand a secret.
Despite knowing Dustin won't like it, Reid pursues a relationship with Avery, slowly gaining her trust, building up her confidence, showering her with compliments, eventually winning her over. The continue meeting in secret right under Dustins nose with Ivy and Jacob keeping their secret whilst warning that they can't keep the fact they're together a secret forever.
Deep down Avery knows that if it comes to a choice between Reid and her brother Dustin, though it would break her heart she'd always choose her brother.
Would Dustin really want to step in the way of his sister Avery and best friend Reids happiness though?
I loved the writing style of this one, it was a steady but constant pace, it really drew you in and you quickly became invested in Avery’s happiness and wanting to know exactly what her ex had done to her to break her heart, seriously knock her confidence and make her swear off dating! Then there’s Reid who isn’t a stranger to heartbreak himself with his last girlfriend being more interested in his money and what his family could do for her than their relationship.
I loved the sections in the book where Avery was arguing with herself about what she should or shouldn’t do. Second guessing her own actions, like we all do at times. This also made her all the more relatable.
This one definitely hits you emotionally, lets just say after reading Forbid Me Not and discovering how caring and considerate he was we all need a Reid Rathe in our lives.
That’s not saying the other two guys in the book aren’t swoon worthy, Dustin is definitely committed to his relationship with Ivy though he may not know it I think Ivy is the one in charge! Jacob starts out the typical love ‘em and leave ‘em type, in fact he doesn’t always get a name or a number!! He then sees Dustin and Reids relationships and starts to warm to the idea of having a more, steady relationship himself, so we do see Jacob develop as time goes on. I should say that though Jacob is friends with Dustin he is a really good friend to Avery too, and who knows if Reid hadn’t been on the scene she could have been the girl to change him, if Dustin had allowed Jacob near her in the first place.
I have to admit there were certain sections in the book I was internally shouting “just tell him!” and then there were also parts where I wanted to get hold of Dustin and give him a really hard shake and tell him to stop being so selfish! You’ll know which bits I mean when you read the book.
The book did remind me of my younger days, late teens, flirting, the banter, the laughs and yes, the unrequited love and heartbreaks. I think that’s one of the reasons that the book is so good as a reader you can so easily identify with Avery. It brought back some good fun memories as well as some not so great ones too! The whole part of the plot of the protective brother and secret love made me think of my own parents “love story” my dad being best friends with my mums brother and my mum singing the song “Secret Love by Doris Day” and I couldn’t get the song out of my head until I had finished the book!
My initial thoughts upon finishing the book were Wow, I really enjoyed that! A real “feel good” book. A message to all that have gone through heartbreak that perhaps there’s just the right caring guy out there!
Summing up I don’t read a whole lot of contemporary, flirty romance type books but I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one and I have to admit a little sad when it ended. I loved the characters. I enjoyed being irritated by Reids parents wanting to set him up in an arranged marriage when he clearly stated he had no feelings for the girl they had chosen for him. I was sorry to be saying goodbye to Avery, Ivy, Dustin, Reid & Jacob when the book ended. I’d definitely read more of this genre by this author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
*This is an edited review. I just felt it deserved more.
I ate this book up. The character development was amazing, and really played a key role in drawing me into the book. I was so lost that the outside world disappeared.
She’s his best friend's sister.
Her brother warned him not to date her.
The magnetic pull towards each other is something they are incapable of ignoring.
Their chemistry? Way too delicious to abstain.
It’s a love story that will have you cheering for them, while frustrated with their stubbornness only to end up making you cry. You know, all those pesky feelings that make a book good.
Avery, our FMC, has just moved home and transferred to the college her brother and best friend are attending. Healing from a serious (and toxic) relationship, she just wants to get on with her life.
Avery kicks the beginning of her new life by attending one of her brother’s college parties. All she wants is to leave the past in the past so she can move forward and find herself again. Deciding to let go, and she allows the party to draw her in. She finds herself falling (literally) into the arms of the hottest man she's ever seen. The room is instantly charged between the two and the world disappears as they get lost in each other. Avery takes a leap of faith, and takes him to her place. They share a passionate night, the kind that lives rent free in your head, on repeat.
He has somewhere to go in the morning, sneaking out. As Avery processes everything that happened she realizes she never got his name. Which is ironic, since she gave him a fake name.
Not aware that their inner circle includes each other (Oh, the set up is just too perfect). They soon learn that he is her brother's best friend. But that's not all! Her best friend, who is also her roommate, is dating her brother. But wait, it gets better! Her apartment shares the same hallway as her brother. Yup, popcorn worthy drama. It was so much fun reading the evolution of their story.
Avery, trying to protect her heart, doesn't make it easy for Reid. Reid accepts the challenge, knowing that he has never felt this way. He can’t walk away, and needs to see where this connection goes. This man is boss level book boyfriend energy! You will fall in love with this man. His ability to make Avery feel cherished and loved is the best. They were meant for each other.
The author tackles heavy topics, allowing the narrative to create something that felt raw and real. It really had me wishing I could reach in and hug Avery (yes, I know its fiction). Avery’s self-esteem, identity, and perception of her body were destroyed by her ex (We hate him). It really tugged on my heart strings watching Avery navigate the rediscovering of how she fits into her world.
Reid’s patience and ability to push Avery, while still being respectful, really proved how he felt about her. He viewed her as something precious, and it was honestly really sweet.
This is a beautiful love story with a courtship built on mutual respect. Of course we can’t leave out the yummy spicy scenes. Be warned, you will need tissues, it definitely made me cry, blubbering at times. Skip your TBR and read this now.
Favorite quote:
“I want to be me again. You made me feel like me when I was so lost and confused. You brought me back from a dark place in my life and showed me what true happiness could be like. I want that back. I want you, Reid.”~Avery
*ARC reader
I ate this book up. The character development was amazing, and really played a key role in drawing me into the book. I was so lost that the outside world disappeared.
She’s his best friend's sister.
Her brother warned him not to date her.
The magnetic pull towards each other is something they are incapable of ignoring.
Their chemistry? Way too delicious to abstain.
It’s a love story that will have you cheering for them, while frustrated with their stubbornness only to end up making you cry. You know, all those pesky feelings that make a book good.
Avery, our FMC, has just moved home and transferred to the college her brother and best friend are attending. Healing from a serious (and toxic) relationship, she just wants to get on with her life.
Avery kicks the beginning of her new life by attending one of her brother’s college parties. All she wants is to leave the past in the past so she can move forward and find herself again. Deciding to let go, and she allows the party to draw her in. She finds herself falling (literally) into the arms of the hottest man she's ever seen. The room is instantly charged between the two and the world disappears as they get lost in each other. Avery takes a leap of faith, and takes him to her place. They share a passionate night, the kind that lives rent free in your head, on repeat.
He has somewhere to go in the morning, sneaking out. As Avery processes everything that happened she realizes she never got his name. Which is ironic, since she gave him a fake name.
Not aware that their inner circle includes each other (Oh, the set up is just too perfect). They soon learn that he is her brother's best friend. But that's not all! Her best friend, who is also her roommate, is dating her brother. But wait, it gets better! Her apartment shares the same hallway as her brother. Yup, popcorn worthy drama. It was so much fun reading the evolution of their story.
Avery, trying to protect her heart, doesn't make it easy for Reid. Reid accepts the challenge, knowing that he has never felt this way. He can’t walk away, and needs to see where this connection goes. This man is boss level book boyfriend energy! You will fall in love with this man. His ability to make Avery feel cherished and loved is the best. They were meant for each other.
The author tackles heavy topics, allowing the narrative to create something that felt raw and real. It really had me wishing I could reach in and hug Avery (yes, I know its fiction). Avery’s self-esteem, identity, and perception of her body were destroyed by her ex (We hate him). It really tugged on my heart strings watching Avery navigate the rediscovering of how she fits into her world.
Reid’s patience and ability to push Avery, while still being respectful, really proved how he felt about her. He viewed her as something precious, and it was honestly really sweet.
This is a beautiful love story with a courtship built on mutual respect. Of course we can’t leave out the yummy spicy scenes. Be warned, you will need tissues, it definitely made me cry, blubbering at times. Skip your TBR and read this now.
Favorite quote:
“I want to be me again. You made me feel like me when I was so lost and confused. You brought me back from a dark place in my life and showed me what true happiness could be like. I want that back. I want you, Reid.”~Avery
*ARC reader
Review of advance copy received from Author
Whoa!! Forbidden love, slow burn, secret rendezvous are all within this amazing Novel.
One I could not put down. Now I love Slow burn as much as the next person, but this had me holding my breath as I truly did not know which way Avery was going to go...well we all assume the book will end up with a HEA, but one never knows for sure!! Anyhow, with the patience of a saint, Reid is determined to see this thru.
This book will have you hooked after the first chapter...it starts off hot and keeps on going.
Insta attraction as drunken Avery falls into Reid's arms and then promptly invites him back to her unit. One night stands are not a thing Avery does, neither does Reid!! But they did!!
So where does that leave him, especially when he is looking for a girl called Sarah....whom no one has seen or heard of!?
Loved the banter between the boys, especially Jacob! He lightened the mood when things got heavy!
As the best friend of Avery's brother, Reid soon realises once he finds out his missing girls real identity, that things could get awkward quickly, as both Avery and Reid have been warned to stay away from each other, by none other than Avery's brother Dustin!
Doesn't work tho!! (small yay!!) Reid is not about to give up the one good thing in his like that has felt right. And that is being with Avery.
An ex has turned her off all men and Avery has big trust issues....issues that Reid is determined to repair one at a time. She refuses to talk about her time with her ex, but Reid soon comes to realise he did a lot of damage.
Whilst all this is going on...Reid has been promised to another, by his parents! And no amount of telling them he is not going to marry Dorothy, it does not sink in. Yes he is from a very rich family and they feel he needs to maintain a good look and that is marrying one of the same social standing! Yeh, not gonna happen ...as I sing merrily!! LOL
Reid wants no one but Avery, so when Dustin finds them in a compromising position in the car....yeh plenty of open door hotness in this read, shite hits the fan and Avery, refusing to lose her brother, breaks it off with Reid!
My heart shatters at this point, cos, you know.....I was all in for Reid and Avery and did not see this coming.....
So...what happens next, you ask?
You need to take the time to read Avery and Reid's story just to see how it ends...especially how do two people destined to be together can mend their broken hearts and move on?
One I could not put down. Now I love Slow burn as much as the next person, but this had me holding my breath as I truly did not know which way Avery was going to go...well we all assume the book will end up with a HEA, but one never knows for sure!! Anyhow, with the patience of a saint, Reid is determined to see this thru.
This book will have you hooked after the first chapter...it starts off hot and keeps on going.
Insta attraction as drunken Avery falls into Reid's arms and then promptly invites him back to her unit. One night stands are not a thing Avery does, neither does Reid!! But they did!!
So where does that leave him, especially when he is looking for a girl called Sarah....whom no one has seen or heard of!?
Loved the banter between the boys, especially Jacob! He lightened the mood when things got heavy!
As the best friend of Avery's brother, Reid soon realises once he finds out his missing girls real identity, that things could get awkward quickly, as both Avery and Reid have been warned to stay away from each other, by none other than Avery's brother Dustin!
Doesn't work tho!! (small yay!!) Reid is not about to give up the one good thing in his like that has felt right. And that is being with Avery.
An ex has turned her off all men and Avery has big trust issues....issues that Reid is determined to repair one at a time. She refuses to talk about her time with her ex, but Reid soon comes to realise he did a lot of damage.
Whilst all this is going on...Reid has been promised to another, by his parents! And no amount of telling them he is not going to marry Dorothy, it does not sink in. Yes he is from a very rich family and they feel he needs to maintain a good look and that is marrying one of the same social standing! Yeh, not gonna happen ...as I sing merrily!! LOL
Reid wants no one but Avery, so when Dustin finds them in a compromising position in the car....yeh plenty of open door hotness in this read, shite hits the fan and Avery, refusing to lose her brother, breaks it off with Reid!
My heart shatters at this point, cos, you know.....I was all in for Reid and Avery and did not see this coming.....
So...what happens next, you ask?
You need to take the time to read Avery and Reid's story just to see how it ends...especially how do two people destined to be together can mend their broken hearts and move on?
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
🖤Collage Romance
🖤Forbidden Romance
🖤Secret Relationship
🖤Curvy FMC
🖤 Brother’s Best Friend
🖤Insta-Lovers
🖤He Fell First
5/5 stars this was an amazing read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The spicy scenes 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ like ok Reid !! 🙌🏻👏🏻.
Made her feel like no one ever has before.
I devoured this book the character oh my word!!
D.V killed it with Reid and Avery!!
I felt like I related to Avery I’m a bigger girl got curves and a belly I really hate showing anyone. And she had her best friend ivy threw it all when they begged her to come back home to the collage her and Avery’s brother attended But Avery she was strong even tho her ex torn her down and left some deep deep scars on her heart and self-esteem. She was beautiful and it took sweet Reid to completely and utterly fall head over heels the first time he laid eyes on her. She was so unsure bout him. He was her brother best friend and Dustin said no!
Reid he was an amazing MMC. He was a loyal and great friend to Dustin and Jacob. And that party at Dustin’s changed his life forever. He seen Avery bout fall and he caught her and the instant attraction between them two had me blushing 🤭. And after that one night how was she suppose to forget the hot guy but then she found out who he was and shock covered her whole body when she found out that was her brother Dustin best friend. But Reid didn’t care Dustin FORBID HIM to see her. He was in it for the long haul even if she didn’t know it yet. But once Reid called her “BABYGIRL” she was melted into a pile.
All together this was a beautiful love story of falling hard and then Dustin’s betrayal by his sister and best friend. And all the surprises I was in love with this book. It was a wonderful read and I enjoyed it all! I wish it would have been a bit longer cause I wanna see there future. But hopefully next book will be:) also would love to read about Jacob and Jill :).
🖤Forbidden Romance
🖤Secret Relationship
🖤Curvy FMC
🖤 Brother’s Best Friend
🖤Insta-Lovers
🖤He Fell First
5/5 stars this was an amazing read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The spicy scenes 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ like ok Reid !! 🙌🏻👏🏻.
Made her feel like no one ever has before.
I devoured this book the character oh my word!!
D.V killed it with Reid and Avery!!
I felt like I related to Avery I’m a bigger girl got curves and a belly I really hate showing anyone. And she had her best friend ivy threw it all when they begged her to come back home to the collage her and Avery’s brother attended But Avery she was strong even tho her ex torn her down and left some deep deep scars on her heart and self-esteem. She was beautiful and it took sweet Reid to completely and utterly fall head over heels the first time he laid eyes on her. She was so unsure bout him. He was her brother best friend and Dustin said no!
Reid he was an amazing MMC. He was a loyal and great friend to Dustin and Jacob. And that party at Dustin’s changed his life forever. He seen Avery bout fall and he caught her and the instant attraction between them two had me blushing 🤭. And after that one night how was she suppose to forget the hot guy but then she found out who he was and shock covered her whole body when she found out that was her brother Dustin best friend. But Reid didn’t care Dustin FORBID HIM to see her. He was in it for the long haul even if she didn’t know it yet. But once Reid called her “BABYGIRL” she was melted into a pile.
All together this was a beautiful love story of falling hard and then Dustin’s betrayal by his sister and best friend. And all the surprises I was in love with this book. It was a wonderful read and I enjoyed it all! I wish it would have been a bit longer cause I wanna see there future. But hopefully next book will be:) also would love to read about Jacob and Jill :).
February 20, 2026
Review of advance copy received from the author.
Forbid Me Not is a sweet, emotional college romance that delivers chemistry, tension, and a satisfying happily-ever-after.
What starts as a one-night stand between Avery and Reid quickly turns into something far more complicated. They meet at a party, and the chemistry between them is instant and undeniable. Avery is still recovering from a major heartbreak and is looking for nothing serious. What she doesn’t realize? The mysterious guy she spends the night with is her brother’s best friend.
Reid, who’s never met Avery before, has no idea either — but he can’t stop thinking about the girl he connected with so effortlessly. When he finally discovers who she is, he’s stunned to learn she’s the one person he absolutely shouldn’t want. Of course, that only makes him want her more. Reid’s determination to pursue Avery despite the “off-limits” rule creates some delicious tension — and I’ll stop there to avoid spoilers. Just know there is a well-earned HEA.
What I appreciated most was how real the characters felt. They’re flawed, vulnerable, and deeply human. Avery’s emotional baggage and Reid’s persistence make their connection feel layered rather than instant-love shallow. Their internal struggles give the romance genuine emotional weight.
Avery’s brother, Dustin, was easily my least favorite character. His “goody two-shoes” attitude comes off as controlling, and at times his words and actions feel manipulative toward Avery, which added an extra layer of conflict.
Overall, this is a cozy college romance with a bit of spice, strong chemistry, and smooth, easy-to-read writing. The dialogue flows naturally, and the pacing keeps you engaged without dragging. If you love brother’s-best-friend tropes, off-limits tension, and heartfelt character growth, this one is definitely worth picking up. 💕
Forbid Me Not is a sweet, emotional college romance that delivers chemistry, tension, and a satisfying happily-ever-after.
What starts as a one-night stand between Avery and Reid quickly turns into something far more complicated. They meet at a party, and the chemistry between them is instant and undeniable. Avery is still recovering from a major heartbreak and is looking for nothing serious. What she doesn’t realize? The mysterious guy she spends the night with is her brother’s best friend.
Reid, who’s never met Avery before, has no idea either — but he can’t stop thinking about the girl he connected with so effortlessly. When he finally discovers who she is, he’s stunned to learn she’s the one person he absolutely shouldn’t want. Of course, that only makes him want her more. Reid’s determination to pursue Avery despite the “off-limits” rule creates some delicious tension — and I’ll stop there to avoid spoilers. Just know there is a well-earned HEA.
What I appreciated most was how real the characters felt. They’re flawed, vulnerable, and deeply human. Avery’s emotional baggage and Reid’s persistence make their connection feel layered rather than instant-love shallow. Their internal struggles give the romance genuine emotional weight.
Avery’s brother, Dustin, was easily my least favorite character. His “goody two-shoes” attitude comes off as controlling, and at times his words and actions feel manipulative toward Avery, which added an extra layer of conflict.
Overall, this is a cozy college romance with a bit of spice, strong chemistry, and smooth, easy-to-read writing. The dialogue flows naturally, and the pacing keeps you engaged without dragging. If you love brother’s-best-friend tropes, off-limits tension, and heartfelt character growth, this one is definitely worth picking up. 💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I’m thinking about you today. I think about you every day."
Dv fischer never disappoints! I've thoroughly enjoyed all her plus size romance novels. This one was delicious! College Romance, Brothers best friend (so obviously forbidden), involving a little secret identity and one night stand! All the ingredients that made a great story.
Our FMC Avery- I adored her! She is so relatable!!! She gets out of a very toxic relationship and starts going to the same college as her brother. Happens to meet her brothers best friend and yea... Fireworks!!!
Reid- our MMC. Brothers best friend. Is told pretty quickly by Avery's brother that his sister is off limits. Cue the music for a glorious messy ride!!!
I loved all the pieces in this one.. so many little side things intertwined that kept me hooked to this story and I devoured this. Their relationship was so cute, sweet, all the feel good things. It was also messy, chaotic, and filled with secrecy at times!
She has her reasons for staying guarded and he kept pushing those walls down. So swoony 🥰🥰🥰 hes persistent, patient, and loyal. The author did a fantastic job with having the chemistry seep from the pages, the tension running high, and overall just having this feel incredibly realistic.
I honestly didn't want this one to end. For the first time I was hoping for like a 5 year jump for an epilogue 🤣 I wanted their journey to keep going! I have no idea if there's plans for this to be a series but I'm kind of hoping it turns into one because I'm totally invested in Jacob and Dustins love stories as well! 🤞🤞 I can hope 😍
✔️Plus size romance
✔️Brothers best friend
✔️One night stand
✔️Forbidden romance
✔️College Romance
✔️Insta love
✔️Hidden identity
✔️He falls first
Thank you for my ARC! I'm leaving this review voluntarily
Dv fischer never disappoints! I've thoroughly enjoyed all her plus size romance novels. This one was delicious! College Romance, Brothers best friend (so obviously forbidden), involving a little secret identity and one night stand! All the ingredients that made a great story.
Our FMC Avery- I adored her! She is so relatable!!! She gets out of a very toxic relationship and starts going to the same college as her brother. Happens to meet her brothers best friend and yea... Fireworks!!!
Reid- our MMC. Brothers best friend. Is told pretty quickly by Avery's brother that his sister is off limits. Cue the music for a glorious messy ride!!!
I loved all the pieces in this one.. so many little side things intertwined that kept me hooked to this story and I devoured this. Their relationship was so cute, sweet, all the feel good things. It was also messy, chaotic, and filled with secrecy at times!
She has her reasons for staying guarded and he kept pushing those walls down. So swoony 🥰🥰🥰 hes persistent, patient, and loyal. The author did a fantastic job with having the chemistry seep from the pages, the tension running high, and overall just having this feel incredibly realistic.
I honestly didn't want this one to end. For the first time I was hoping for like a 5 year jump for an epilogue 🤣 I wanted their journey to keep going! I have no idea if there's plans for this to be a series but I'm kind of hoping it turns into one because I'm totally invested in Jacob and Dustins love stories as well! 🤞🤞 I can hope 😍
✔️Plus size romance
✔️Brothers best friend
✔️One night stand
✔️Forbidden romance
✔️College Romance
✔️Insta love
✔️Hidden identity
✔️He falls first
Thank you for my ARC! I'm leaving this review voluntarily
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Reid and Avery meet at a party and end up having a one-night stand, which is what really sets this whole story into motion. What makes their relationship so engaging is the contrast between them. Reid is completely head over heels from the start, and he doesn’t hide that from Avery at all.
Avery, on the other hand, is cautious because of her past, which honestly felt very realistic and understandable. I loved that she stayed true to her beliefs and her fears instead of giving in too quickly just because Reid wanted more.
And Reid… he was adorable. His persistence never felt pushy or overwhelming. It felt genuine. Sweet. The kind of MMC who just knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to show it.
Avery’s emotional depth really gave this book weight. This wasn’t just a story about a guy wanting a girl and her being scared. You really feel what Avery feels as she processes everything happening around her compared to what she’s been through. Watching her work through those emotions made the story feel very real.
The final third of this book was honestly hard to read emotionally. It was heartbreaking at times, and I felt for both Avery and Reid. At the same time, I completely understood why Avery stood so firmly in her decision. And there were definitely moments where I wanted to yell at one of the side characters to wise up because their behavior felt incredibly selfish. But the emotional payoff at the end made the journey worth it. I received this book as an ARC and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
If I could go back in time, if I could turn back the time, I'd find your brother sooner so that I could find you.
Avery, on the other hand, is cautious because of her past, which honestly felt very realistic and understandable. I loved that she stayed true to her beliefs and her fears instead of giving in too quickly just because Reid wanted more.
And Reid… he was adorable. His persistence never felt pushy or overwhelming. It felt genuine. Sweet. The kind of MMC who just knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to show it.
Avery’s emotional depth really gave this book weight. This wasn’t just a story about a guy wanting a girl and her being scared. You really feel what Avery feels as she processes everything happening around her compared to what she’s been through. Watching her work through those emotions made the story feel very real.
The final third of this book was honestly hard to read emotionally. It was heartbreaking at times, and I felt for both Avery and Reid. At the same time, I completely understood why Avery stood so firmly in her decision. And there were definitely moments where I wanted to yell at one of the side characters to wise up because their behavior felt incredibly selfish. But the emotional payoff at the end made the journey worth it. I received this book as an ARC and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
If I could go back in time, if I could turn back the time, I'd find your brother sooner so that I could find you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh man, that forbidden + secret brother's best friend... 👌🏻 It always hits just right for me.
In Forbid Me Not, we meet Avery. She's coming out of a pretty toxic relationship and moves back to go to college with her brother Dustin and her bff (& Dustin's girlfriend) Ivy. Her first weekend in town, she meets Reid 😍 at a party and they have insane chemistry which leads to a one night stand.
Once they figure out who the other is, they have a few obstacles to overcome: Dustin declares Avery off limits, Avery's self esteem issues & recent heartbreak, an arranged marriage for Reid set up by his parents... it's a bit of a rough ride.
Honestly, Reid was such a great book boyfriend. Did he always make the best decisions? Absolutely not. But he adored Avery, and did what he could to break down her walls and help her see how beautiful he saw her + how deserving she was of love. 🥹 I'm such a sucker for 'he falls first and hard'. 😂
Avery, for me, was a really relatable fmc. She's struggling SO much with body issues - and once you've got those in your head, it's really difficult to hear anything else, and it can sabotage so much in your life. It was such a hard-fought HEA for her but it was so sweet once she got there.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. The story was really smooth and easy to get through. Angsty without doing serious emotional damage. 😂🫶🏻 My one wish would be that I would have loved to see an epilogue with more of these two in the future, I just loved them together so much. 🖤
In Forbid Me Not, we meet Avery. She's coming out of a pretty toxic relationship and moves back to go to college with her brother Dustin and her bff (& Dustin's girlfriend) Ivy. Her first weekend in town, she meets Reid 😍 at a party and they have insane chemistry which leads to a one night stand.
Once they figure out who the other is, they have a few obstacles to overcome: Dustin declares Avery off limits, Avery's self esteem issues & recent heartbreak, an arranged marriage for Reid set up by his parents... it's a bit of a rough ride.
Honestly, Reid was such a great book boyfriend. Did he always make the best decisions? Absolutely not. But he adored Avery, and did what he could to break down her walls and help her see how beautiful he saw her + how deserving she was of love. 🥹 I'm such a sucker for 'he falls first and hard'. 😂
Avery, for me, was a really relatable fmc. She's struggling SO much with body issues - and once you've got those in your head, it's really difficult to hear anything else, and it can sabotage so much in your life. It was such a hard-fought HEA for her but it was so sweet once she got there.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. The story was really smooth and easy to get through. Angsty without doing serious emotional damage. 😂🫶🏻 My one wish would be that I would have loved to see an epilogue with more of these two in the future, I just loved them together so much. 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
College romance
I really enjoyed this story. Having got out of a toxic relationship with her controlling ex, Avery moves back home and joins her brother in college, sharing a room with her best friend opposite his. But at a dorm party her brother organised to introduce her to his friends (though she generally feels invisible as the curvy on in the room, not helped by the body image issues her ex gave her) she meets Reid and the attraction and chemistry between them is instant.
But though Reid is constantly thinking about her and going out of his way to ensure she feels seen, wanting to win her over after leaving her room before she woke, they have the issue that he's her brother's best friend (who's warned them both to stay away from each other).
Reid definitely falls first and though he's from a family with money he's kind and down-to-earth. I loved the character development between the Reid and Avery and seeing the romance grow between them. The banter between the boys, Dustin, Reid and Jacob, is also brilliant.
This is a lovely sweet romance by DV Fischer; I've really enjoyed reading this and would recommend. Plenty of plot, banter, friendships, brother's best friend, desire, personal insecurities, family dynamics, arranged marriage, love, romance and spice.
Troupes:
❤️ College Romance
❤️ Curvy FMC
❤️ Brother's Best Friend
❤️ Insta-Love
❤️ He Falls First
❤️ Forbidden Romance
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed this story. Having got out of a toxic relationship with her controlling ex, Avery moves back home and joins her brother in college, sharing a room with her best friend opposite his. But at a dorm party her brother organised to introduce her to his friends (though she generally feels invisible as the curvy on in the room, not helped by the body image issues her ex gave her) she meets Reid and the attraction and chemistry between them is instant.
But though Reid is constantly thinking about her and going out of his way to ensure she feels seen, wanting to win her over after leaving her room before she woke, they have the issue that he's her brother's best friend (who's warned them both to stay away from each other).
Reid definitely falls first and though he's from a family with money he's kind and down-to-earth. I loved the character development between the Reid and Avery and seeing the romance grow between them. The banter between the boys, Dustin, Reid and Jacob, is also brilliant.
This is a lovely sweet romance by DV Fischer; I've really enjoyed reading this and would recommend. Plenty of plot, banter, friendships, brother's best friend, desire, personal insecurities, family dynamics, arranged marriage, love, romance and spice.
Troupes:
❤️ College Romance
❤️ Curvy FMC
❤️ Brother's Best Friend
❤️ Insta-Love
❤️ He Falls First
❤️ Forbidden Romance
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Plot 4 out of 5 stars
Spice - moderate
We meet a broken hearted and insecure Avery at a party her brother throws in honor of her return home & to college. Drinking her breakup woes away, Avery is looking to get turnt up! During a bold bout of courage she drunkenly dances on the table at the packed party and falls directly into the arms of a handsome one night stand. She cuts loose and enjoys herself never expecting to see this man again, until she does. And its not just any man, its her brother’s best friend. Avery struggles to keep the fling a secret from her brother and stay away from the handsome best friend that also goes to her college. She doesn’t want a repeat of events that led to her last break up and her self esteem is pretty non existent because of her weight.
I loved the ‘he falls first’ theme and the mix of respect & nasty sex. I also enjoyed watching Avery get her confidence back.
I didnt love that Avery’s confidence was given and taken by two different men. Didnt love that her brother held so much power over her happiness. I personally would have made my brother get over it. In the end it seemed like Avery put her brother over her own happiness which is weird to me. I just couldn’t relate to that. All in all I enjoyed reading. Hate that baby girl never got any head tho! She deserved some oral loving !
I received this as an ARC from the author & this is my honest review.
Plot 4 out of 5 stars
Spice - moderate
We meet a broken hearted and insecure Avery at a party her brother throws in honor of her return home & to college. Drinking her breakup woes away, Avery is looking to get turnt up! During a bold bout of courage she drunkenly dances on the table at the packed party and falls directly into the arms of a handsome one night stand. She cuts loose and enjoys herself never expecting to see this man again, until she does. And its not just any man, its her brother’s best friend. Avery struggles to keep the fling a secret from her brother and stay away from the handsome best friend that also goes to her college. She doesn’t want a repeat of events that led to her last break up and her self esteem is pretty non existent because of her weight.
I loved the ‘he falls first’ theme and the mix of respect & nasty sex. I also enjoyed watching Avery get her confidence back.
I didnt love that Avery’s confidence was given and taken by two different men. Didnt love that her brother held so much power over her happiness. I personally would have made my brother get over it. In the end it seemed like Avery put her brother over her own happiness which is weird to me. I just couldn’t relate to that. All in all I enjoyed reading. Hate that baby girl never got any head tho! She deserved some oral loving !
I received this as an ARC from the author & this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 Stars
Forbid Me Not, by DV Fischer, is a full-length, brother’s best friend, plus-sized romance packed with body-positive and swoon-worthy moments. The college, insta-love romance had me locked in, and I read it in one sitting.
I must admit, I have been turning my nose up at college-themed books lately because I feel I have aged out of the sub-genre, but I thoroughly enjoyed this one, and it made me rethink my decisions. Avery has very real body image issues, thanks to a toxic ex. His constant need to remind her that she is “fat” made my blood boil. Meeting Reid changes all of that. There is an instant attraction, and for the first time in a long time, she feels pretty.
I loved the connection between Reid and Avery. Even though Reid comes from money, he does not flaunt it. He is kind and as down-to-earth as you can get. His mom is a pain in the ass who wants him to marry someone of his equal standing - rich and popular. But Reid only has eyes for Avery.
I really enjoyed the book. It is well written and explores many real-life issues. It has likeable and relatable characters. As I said earlier, I read it in one sitting on a Saturday morning. It is definitely worth the time spent ignoring my errands! LOL.
Thanks to DV Fischer for gifting me an eARC of Forbid Me Not. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Forbid Me Not, by DV Fischer, is a full-length, brother’s best friend, plus-sized romance packed with body-positive and swoon-worthy moments. The college, insta-love romance had me locked in, and I read it in one sitting.
I must admit, I have been turning my nose up at college-themed books lately because I feel I have aged out of the sub-genre, but I thoroughly enjoyed this one, and it made me rethink my decisions. Avery has very real body image issues, thanks to a toxic ex. His constant need to remind her that she is “fat” made my blood boil. Meeting Reid changes all of that. There is an instant attraction, and for the first time in a long time, she feels pretty.
I loved the connection between Reid and Avery. Even though Reid comes from money, he does not flaunt it. He is kind and as down-to-earth as you can get. His mom is a pain in the ass who wants him to marry someone of his equal standing - rich and popular. But Reid only has eyes for Avery.
I really enjoyed the book. It is well written and explores many real-life issues. It has likeable and relatable characters. As I said earlier, I read it in one sitting on a Saturday morning. It is definitely worth the time spent ignoring my errands! LOL.
Thanks to DV Fischer for gifting me an eARC of Forbid Me Not. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 17, 2024
4.5 Stars
My first D.V. Fischer book and I can say that I am now obsessed. I've seen TikTok's on her books and have been wanting to read her since :)
Forbid Me Not was a cute read. I loved everything about it ... especially Reid. He was a very kindhearted guy, very down to earth and nothing like people portrayed him to be. He really disliked that people looked at him as being a snob just because he came from money and drove a luxury car, but he really didn't want anything to do with his family's money and didn't get along with his parents because they wanted and have been dictating his life and had already arranged his marriage which he thought he had no say in it, until he meets his best friend's little sister, Avery.
He literally almost melts when he meets her and he's a goner from day one when it came to her, but she gives him such a hard time because of her past and she's afraid of getting hurt again and who wants to get hurt so fast after getting burned by your first love!
I really enjoyed this book and loved Reid. His character is a total fairytale come true and too bad it's just fictional but damn would it be nice if there were Reids' out there in the real world!!
My first D.V. Fischer book and I can say that I am now obsessed. I've seen TikTok's on her books and have been wanting to read her since :)
Forbid Me Not was a cute read. I loved everything about it ... especially Reid. He was a very kindhearted guy, very down to earth and nothing like people portrayed him to be. He really disliked that people looked at him as being a snob just because he came from money and drove a luxury car, but he really didn't want anything to do with his family's money and didn't get along with his parents because they wanted and have been dictating his life and had already arranged his marriage which he thought he had no say in it, until he meets his best friend's little sister, Avery.
He literally almost melts when he meets her and he's a goner from day one when it came to her, but she gives him such a hard time because of her past and she's afraid of getting hurt again and who wants to get hurt so fast after getting burned by your first love!
I really enjoyed this book and loved Reid. His character is a total fairytale come true and too bad it's just fictional but damn would it be nice if there were Reids' out there in the real world!!
April 20, 2024
A quick and sweet fast paced college romance read! Avery deserves so much more after leaving a toxic and emotionally damaging relationship! Now back in town to be near family, she has her best friend Ivy, and school to focus on. She is very close with her brother and he wants her to hang around the same crowd! After a party thrown by her brother, where Avery lets loose, she ends up in a one night stand situation with a hot guy she's never met. It's not like her and feeling somewhat disheartened, she doesn't expect to see him again. But she does, and with the last person she'd expect - her brother! Her brother doesn't want to mix family and friends in regards to dating so he tells his best friend Reid that his sister is off limits! Reid doesn't want to lose his best friend, and Avery doesn't want to lose her brother - but they can't deny the pull they have to each other - especially after their explosive first meeting. Dual POV, single timeline, forbidden, brothers best friend, second chance, forced proximity, body positive reinforcement, swoon worthy college men, and plenty of steamy spice! Great character dynamics, relatable situations and a HEA! Looking forward to more works from DV!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I'll do anything for this girl. I'll overturn the world for her."
I'm going to call it. Brother's best friend has to be one of my favourite tropes. It's fun, forbidden and full of angst and yearning. And this one did not let me down!
This spicy, college romance was such an enjoyable story. It also had me questioning where the hell the guys like Reid were when I was that age! The man gives major book boyfriend vibes. He's just the perfect guy.
As a plus size girlie myself, I do enjoy the representation in romance novels.
Whilst some prefer to see their plus sized FMC as a confident, self-assured woman who really owns her body and place in the world, the reality is not all of us feel this way, at least not all the time.
So for me, Avery is very relatable. I appreciate and understand her journey.
Avery's brother, however, made me so mad, and that's all I'll say on the matter.
You should read this book if you love:
- Open door romance (spice)
- Brother's best friend
- Forbidden romance
- He falls first
- One night stand
- Hidden identity
- Curvy FMC
Forbid Me Not will be released on March 10.
Thank you to DV Fischer for the complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I'm going to call it. Brother's best friend has to be one of my favourite tropes. It's fun, forbidden and full of angst and yearning. And this one did not let me down!
This spicy, college romance was such an enjoyable story. It also had me questioning where the hell the guys like Reid were when I was that age! The man gives major book boyfriend vibes. He's just the perfect guy.
As a plus size girlie myself, I do enjoy the representation in romance novels.
Whilst some prefer to see their plus sized FMC as a confident, self-assured woman who really owns her body and place in the world, the reality is not all of us feel this way, at least not all the time.
So for me, Avery is very relatable. I appreciate and understand her journey.
Avery's brother, however, made me so mad, and that's all I'll say on the matter.
You should read this book if you love:
- Open door romance (spice)
- Brother's best friend
- Forbidden romance
- He falls first
- One night stand
- Hidden identity
- Curvy FMC
Forbid Me Not will be released on March 10.
Thank you to DV Fischer for the complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 11, 2024
I absolutely love ARC reading for DV Fischer her books are so wonderful.
Forbid Me Not is another smash hit by DV Fischer, she sure can tell a wonderful story.. I have read dark romances by her and now this curvy best friends sister romance, she can do it all.
Forbid me not is about Reid a best friend of Avery’s brother Dustin and follows how they meet when Avery arrives to start college at her brother’s college. Avery has been hurt before so her brother is very protective of her. He forbids any of his friends to date her. So this follows how Avery handles going through everything and finding out she has had one night stand with her brothers best friends and the ups and downs she goes through with her journey to be with Reid.
Find out how Avery and Reid twist and turns to see if they become end game or not… follow all the other friends like Dustin, Ivy and the rest of the gang of friends. This book will leave you wanting more. It is spicy and so real and the story line is so interesting and well written you’ll not want to put this book down. She definitely has a way with words.
Forbid Me Not is another smash hit by DV Fischer, she sure can tell a wonderful story.. I have read dark romances by her and now this curvy best friends sister romance, she can do it all.
Forbid me not is about Reid a best friend of Avery’s brother Dustin and follows how they meet when Avery arrives to start college at her brother’s college. Avery has been hurt before so her brother is very protective of her. He forbids any of his friends to date her. So this follows how Avery handles going through everything and finding out she has had one night stand with her brothers best friends and the ups and downs she goes through with her journey to be with Reid.
Find out how Avery and Reid twist and turns to see if they become end game or not… follow all the other friends like Dustin, Ivy and the rest of the gang of friends. This book will leave you wanting more. It is spicy and so real and the story line is so interesting and well written you’ll not want to put this book down. She definitely has a way with words.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Forbidden, Flirty, & Freaking Adorable
Ohhhhh Besties… this one surprised me in the cutest way.💕 I went into "Forbid Me Not" expecting something closer to the darker vibes I’m used to from D. V. Fischer, but instead I got a sweet, funny cozy read that had me smiling way more than I expected.😊
Avery is coming off a trash ex who seriously wrecked her confidence, so her swearing off men felt very relatable. Then boom... she hooks up with a hot guy at her brother's party who actually sees her, curves and all… only to discover he’s Reid, her brother’s best friend. Cue the chaos.
The banter with the guys had me giggling, and Reid? That man is patient, determined, and completely locked in on Avery. Even with family pressure trying to push him toward someone else, he never stops choosing her. And let’s just say Avery’s brother is NOT thrilled about it.😒
I also loved the body-positive rep. Reid loving Avery exactly as she is? Adorable. Sweet, funny, a little messy, and full of heart-melting moments.🥰
If you’re like me and live in darker romance most days, this is a cozy, feel-good reset for your TBR.😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3/5
Ohhhhh Besties… this one surprised me in the cutest way.💕 I went into "Forbid Me Not" expecting something closer to the darker vibes I’m used to from D. V. Fischer, but instead I got a sweet, funny cozy read that had me smiling way more than I expected.😊
Avery is coming off a trash ex who seriously wrecked her confidence, so her swearing off men felt very relatable. Then boom... she hooks up with a hot guy at her brother's party who actually sees her, curves and all… only to discover he’s Reid, her brother’s best friend. Cue the chaos.
The banter with the guys had me giggling, and Reid? That man is patient, determined, and completely locked in on Avery. Even with family pressure trying to push him toward someone else, he never stops choosing her. And let’s just say Avery’s brother is NOT thrilled about it.😒
I also loved the body-positive rep. Reid loving Avery exactly as she is? Adorable. Sweet, funny, a little messy, and full of heart-melting moments.🥰
If you’re like me and live in darker romance most days, this is a cozy, feel-good reset for your TBR.😉
My Ratings: ⭐ 4.5/5 ▪︎ 🥵 3/5
April 21, 2024
Review: Forbid Me Not
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️1/2
"Forbid Me Not" by DV Fischer is a compelling tale of forbidden love and self-discovery. The story follows a young woman who finds herself in a complicated situation after a night of passion with her brother's best friend, unaware of their connection at the time. Battling with body issues and a vow to avoid relationships, she struggles to resist Reid Rathe's persistent advances. Despite her resolve, Reid's unwavering pursuit and genuine affection challenge her convictions. Fischer skillfully navigates the complexities of familial loyalty, personal insecurities, and the undeniable pull of attraction. The characters are well-developed, and the chemistry between the protagonists is palpable. While the premise may seem cliché, Fischer infuses the narrative with depth and emotion, making it a captivating read. Although some elements may feel predictable, the execution is well done!
Thank you to @dvfischerauthor for providing me a copy to review!
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️1/2
"Forbid Me Not" by DV Fischer is a compelling tale of forbidden love and self-discovery. The story follows a young woman who finds herself in a complicated situation after a night of passion with her brother's best friend, unaware of their connection at the time. Battling with body issues and a vow to avoid relationships, she struggles to resist Reid Rathe's persistent advances. Despite her resolve, Reid's unwavering pursuit and genuine affection challenge her convictions. Fischer skillfully navigates the complexities of familial loyalty, personal insecurities, and the undeniable pull of attraction. The characters are well-developed, and the chemistry between the protagonists is palpable. While the premise may seem cliché, Fischer infuses the narrative with depth and emotion, making it a captivating read. Although some elements may feel predictable, the execution is well done!
Thank you to @dvfischerauthor for providing me a copy to review!
February 26, 2026
A perfect college romance. After having her heartbroken, Avery moves home to attend college with her best friend and brother. While trying to heal her heart, she swears off men, until she meets Reid. She falls into his arms, literally, and has a night she cannot forget, although she figures he does not feel the same way.
Reid also cannot forget their night together, and looks everywhere for his mystery woman, who's name he has, he thinks. When he realizes his woman is his best friends sister, he decides she is worth any strain it may cause in his friendship.
Avery however, is not ready for anything. So Ried pursues her for months. After a while she surrenders to her feelings for him, and they date while hiding it from her brother. Of course, he finds out in the worse way possible. But Reid will not give up.
This story is well written, believeable and relatable. D.V Fischer wrote a fantastic read.
Thank you to the author for a copy of her ebook to review in exchange for an honest review.
Reid also cannot forget their night together, and looks everywhere for his mystery woman, who's name he has, he thinks. When he realizes his woman is his best friends sister, he decides she is worth any strain it may cause in his friendship.
Avery however, is not ready for anything. So Ried pursues her for months. After a while she surrenders to her feelings for him, and they date while hiding it from her brother. Of course, he finds out in the worse way possible. But Reid will not give up.
This story is well written, believeable and relatable. D.V Fischer wrote a fantastic read.
Thank you to the author for a copy of her ebook to review in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Forbid Me Not by DV Fischer
Avery is a plus‑size heroine who’s been burned badly by love, and you feel every bit of the insecurity she carries after her ex cheats on her. Coming home and joining her twin brother at college is supposed to be a reset, not a romantic detour… until she walks into her first party and meets Reed.
Reed is exactly the kind of man every woman secretly hopes exists: patient, attentive, gentle without being passive, and absolutely smitten with Avery from the start. Watching him slowly earn her trust is genuinely lovely, and there are moments of real vulnerability that make their connection feel grounded and heartfelt.
The story itself is cute, comforting, and easy to root for. The characters are well written, the emotional beats land, and there’s a nice touch of spice right from chapter one.
It is predictable, and that’s the only reason this didn’t quite hit 5 stars for me — but sometimes predictable is exactly what you want when you’re in the mood for a soft, safe romance with a guaranteed HEA.
Avery is a plus‑size heroine who’s been burned badly by love, and you feel every bit of the insecurity she carries after her ex cheats on her. Coming home and joining her twin brother at college is supposed to be a reset, not a romantic detour… until she walks into her first party and meets Reed.
Reed is exactly the kind of man every woman secretly hopes exists: patient, attentive, gentle without being passive, and absolutely smitten with Avery from the start. Watching him slowly earn her trust is genuinely lovely, and there are moments of real vulnerability that make their connection feel grounded and heartfelt.
The story itself is cute, comforting, and easy to root for. The characters are well written, the emotional beats land, and there’s a nice touch of spice right from chapter one.
It is predictable, and that’s the only reason this didn’t quite hit 5 stars for me — but sometimes predictable is exactly what you want when you’re in the mood for a soft, safe romance with a guaranteed HEA.
March 4, 2026
A sweet romantic read - Forbid me not by D.V.Fischer delivers what it promises.
The tropes of “Brother’s best friend”, “Forbidden romance” are the base of this story. The story also explores self-image issues faced by women.
Avery Moore is a curvaceous woman who has low self worth due to her ex-boyfriend’s invasive comments on her looks. She does not feel she deserves to be desired or loved as she is.
She transfers to her brother Dustin’s school and meets his best friend Reid Rathe.
Reid helps her overcome her issues and shows her she deserves to be loved as she is.
Her best friend Ivy, also her brother’s girlfriend, is very supportive of her.
The romance is well paced. The characters are well written. I loved the way the author addressed the self worth issues and how Avery overcomes the same.
I would definitely recommend reading this book
5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me for a very enjoyable read
Tropes:
One night stand
Brother’s best friend
I received this book from the author as an ARC from the author for an honest review.
The tropes of “Brother’s best friend”, “Forbidden romance” are the base of this story. The story also explores self-image issues faced by women.
Avery Moore is a curvaceous woman who has low self worth due to her ex-boyfriend’s invasive comments on her looks. She does not feel she deserves to be desired or loved as she is.
She transfers to her brother Dustin’s school and meets his best friend Reid Rathe.
Reid helps her overcome her issues and shows her she deserves to be loved as she is.
Her best friend Ivy, also her brother’s girlfriend, is very supportive of her.
The romance is well paced. The characters are well written. I loved the way the author addressed the self worth issues and how Avery overcomes the same.
I would definitely recommend reading this book
5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me for a very enjoyable read
Tropes:
One night stand
Brother’s best friend
I received this book from the author as an ARC from the author for an honest review.
April 27, 2024
Forbid me Not by DV Fischer was such a fantastic book. This is my second book by this author and I’m still blown away by how amazing everything is. Once I read this book blurb I was 100% in for this ride. I devoured this read, I didn’t move off my couch or lower my kindle. I was hooked within the first few chapters. I mean I already love curvy girl romances but then add in the brother’s best friend trope… that’s a recipe for success. Gosh, did I love these characters… they were written so well and had interest personalities. They were relatable and it was easy to form a connection with them. But my favorite part of the whole book was how the chemistry was written, it was honestly fire. This whole book is just on another level and it may be added to my favorites list. It’s such a great love story that’s so well written with a fantastic plot. The descriptions in the book made it easy to imagine everything. I can’t recommend this book enough!
Final review:
5 out of 5 stars
Final review:
5 out of 5 stars
Read
March 6, 2026Y'all, this is super cute! All characters and relationships are both believable and relatable, which I appreciate. No interaction feels awkward or forced. The mental and emotional battle Avery fights when Reid is pursuing her is spot-on. Reid is absolutely adorable when it comes to Avery (and we are all grateful Dustin finally got his head out of his bootyhole). I loved the banter between Avery and Reid, and there were so many cute moments where I felt like squealing and kicking my feet. Also, Ivy and Jacob are phenomenal friends. (I'm stoked we got some closure on Jacob's mystery girl by the last chapter!) All in all, this was a book filled with just the right balance of tension, drama, well-timed humor, and warm-fuzzies.
Favorite lines:
"The last time that happened, I dated the asshole who turned me into the relationship shrew that I am today."
"Someone has to keep you in line, or you'd fuck your way to the top and graduate with ten STDs."
Favorite lines:
"The last time that happened, I dated the asshole who turned me into the relationship shrew that I am today."
"Someone has to keep you in line, or you'd fuck your way to the top and graduate with ten STDs."
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read this is one night, and while some would say it was to hit a deadline, it was completely because I wanted to see Avery win. As a curvy gal I wanted to see the HEA for this young lady who slowly (very very slowly) allowed herself to be loved completely. To see herself as a fun vibrant person even though her shape had changed as she went through life.
I hope every woman has a “Reid” by their side reminding them that they are loved and wanted!! I really enjoyed the notes in class and the sweet texts that Reid sends Avery.
A little bit forbidden/hidden (best friend’s twin sister), ONS turned into forever.
It definitely feels like a bit of a throwback style of writing (still super engaging and enjoyable!!!), and definitely a faster read for me. If you’re looking for a cozy night with some spice - I’d definitely suggest this one 😊😊
Thank you DV for sharing your story with me in advance 💜💜
I hope every woman has a “Reid” by their side reminding them that they are loved and wanted!! I really enjoyed the notes in class and the sweet texts that Reid sends Avery.
A little bit forbidden/hidden (best friend’s twin sister), ONS turned into forever.
It definitely feels like a bit of a throwback style of writing (still super engaging and enjoyable!!!), and definitely a faster read for me. If you’re looking for a cozy night with some spice - I’d definitely suggest this one 😊😊
Thank you DV for sharing your story with me in advance 💜💜
March 30, 2024
Forbid Me Not just made my heart so happy!! This is such a feel good romance. After a horrible breakup Avery moves back to her hometown to attend college with her twin brother and her best friend. While at a party hosted by her brother she meets this hot guy she has a one night stand with. Of course the guy she slept with ends up being her brother’s best friend, Reid. Even after being forbid to pursue her Reid knows how he feels and she’s worth the risk. Now he just has to convince Avery to take the leap of faith and he just hopes after things fall into place her brother will understand. I devoured this book!! Absolutely LOVVVED!! If you want a cute, quick read with a happy ending this book is it. I can’t recommend it enough.
“You may be imperfect in your eyes, but you’re perfect in mine. I’m begging you to let me in, Avery. Flaws. Walls. Pain. I want it all.”
“You may be imperfect in your eyes, but you’re perfect in mine. I’m begging you to let me in, Avery. Flaws. Walls. Pain. I want it all.”
August 3, 2024
this story was pretty cute! I had a couple moments that gave me the ick but I moved past them and was able to finish this and it was overall a pretty cute story. The narration is pretty good although sometimes it's hard to tell between the genders but it wasn't boring I was still engaged in the story despite. I love a plus size story and I think Reed and his unabashed attraction to Avery is what carried the story for me. He was the quintessential perfect book boyfriend and was feral for Avery which is a major plus for me. But her insecurities were a little much for my taste and I hated the way she was absolutely beside herself because her ex called her fat. -_- GIRL PLEASE just stop. Also I can't stand 3rd act Break ups and that shit lasted MONTHS ugh it killed me but of course there's an HEA so it all works out.
overall it was a 3.5 to 4 rating for me.
overall it was a 3.5 to 4 rating for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review 📚
Another book that I simply couldn't put down! Mygod what a ride it was, a beautiful one with it's little twists and turns.
It was alot brighter than what I read the most, but I really needed that right now and Reid was just the sweetest! 😍
I also liked the fact that Avery is a plus size girl because so am I and I couldn't help but feel connected to her in a good way. She boosted my confidence too ❤️
"You can touch, you know", he whispers while he jots down some notes on his laptop.
"Touch what?" I whisper back.
"Me."
My absolute favorite piece of the book🥵
Even though there were some "hard" moments in this book, it was really lovely and amazing and I 100% recommend it if you like the tropes:
🧡 Plus size girl
🧡 Brother's best friend
🧡 Forbidden romance
🧡 He falls first
Book release March 10 📚
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another book that I simply couldn't put down! Mygod what a ride it was, a beautiful one with it's little twists and turns.
It was alot brighter than what I read the most, but I really needed that right now and Reid was just the sweetest! 😍
I also liked the fact that Avery is a plus size girl because so am I and I couldn't help but feel connected to her in a good way. She boosted my confidence too ❤️
"You can touch, you know", he whispers while he jots down some notes on his laptop.
"Touch what?" I whisper back.
"Me."
My absolute favorite piece of the book🥵
Even though there were some "hard" moments in this book, it was really lovely and amazing and I 100% recommend it if you like the tropes:
🧡 Plus size girl
🧡 Brother's best friend
🧡 Forbidden romance
🧡 He falls first
Book release March 10 📚
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews