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Carrington Cove #1
Somewhere You Belong
One letter changed my life.
One night with him might change my forever.
Inheriting a beach house in a small town you’ve never heard of is less than ideal.
Falling for the broody bar owner who hates me because he wants the house? Even worse.
I came to Carrington Cove for one reason—to renovate the home I knew nothing about, sell it, and get back to my life in D.C. and my multi-million dollar business.
There was nothing on the agenda about falling for Dallas, the sexy former Marine who chastises me about my manners and withholds how to fend off the murderous geese on my property.
Fighting with him becomes our own messed up form of foreplay. But his tongue?
Turns out it has other talents than just sparring with me verbally.
Our banter turns to moans in the dark, our arguments turn to learning more about each other, and the closer we get, the more I question whether I’m meant to stay here with the man I’m falling for.
Until one night, I realize that he and I share a connection neither one of us could have seen coming.
Would I leave this town feeling more lost in my life than ever before?
Or was it possible that I finally found somewhere I belong?
One night with him might change my forever.
Inheriting a beach house in a small town you’ve never heard of is less than ideal.
Falling for the broody bar owner who hates me because he wants the house? Even worse.
I came to Carrington Cove for one reason—to renovate the home I knew nothing about, sell it, and get back to my life in D.C. and my multi-million dollar business.
There was nothing on the agenda about falling for Dallas, the sexy former Marine who chastises me about my manners and withholds how to fend off the murderous geese on my property.
Fighting with him becomes our own messed up form of foreplay. But his tongue?
Turns out it has other talents than just sparring with me verbally.
Our banter turns to moans in the dark, our arguments turn to learning more about each other, and the closer we get, the more I question whether I’m meant to stay here with the man I’m falling for.
Until one night, I realize that he and I share a connection neither one of us could have seen coming.
Would I leave this town feeling more lost in my life than ever before?
Or was it possible that I finally found somewhere I belong?
365 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2024
1307 people are currently reading
4246 people want to read
About the author
Harlow James
33 books1,397 followersHarlow James is a wife and mom who fell in love with romance novels, so she decided to write her own.
Her books are the perfect blend of heartwarming, addictive, and steamy romance. If you love stories with strong females, found family and friend groups, and plenty of emotion and steam with a guaranteed Happily Ever After, then Harlow is your new best friend.
When she's not writing, she can be found working her day job, reading every romance novel she can find time for, laughing with her husband and kids, watching re-runs of FRIENDS, and spending time cooking for her friends and family while drinking champagne or a blended margarita.
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Website: https://harlowjamesauthor.com/
Her books are the perfect blend of heartwarming, addictive, and steamy romance. If you love stories with strong females, found family and friend groups, and plenty of emotion and steam with a guaranteed Happily Ever After, then Harlow is your new best friend.
When she's not writing, she can be found working her day job, reading every romance novel she can find time for, laughing with her husband and kids, watching re-runs of FRIENDS, and spending time cooking for her friends and family while drinking champagne or a blended margarita.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarlowJamesA...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/49499...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlowjames...
Newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/b2x1q8
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Harlow-James/e...
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/harlo...
Website: https://harlowjamesauthor.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 581 reviews
August 19, 2024
3.5 ⭐
Dallas' (34) father, Michael, was a soldier and, years ago, was once assigned to watch over two journalists on a trip. But the mission took a turn for the worse, and both of these individuals lost their lives. Willow (34) was left an orphan at the age of two, and these people were her parents. Anyway, with the guilt of what happened, Michael decided to make up for it by giving Willow his parents' house.
In the present time, Michael passed away six months ago, and his will made Willow visit this small town she had never heard of before. She inherited the house and decided to fix it, but was unsure whether to sell or keep it.
Apparently, this is the same house Dallas has been wanting to buy for years. His parents didn't tell him it was his grandparents' property, so for years he had no clue who was the owner of it.
When Dallas and Willow met for the first time, it sure started on the wrong foot. They were both judgmental and kind of prickly with each other, so the animosity grew between them. But of course, despite their mutual dislike, there's also this mutual attraction they can't stop, even if they wanted to.
And when Dallas found out that Willow was the new owner of his dream house, he started to change his attitude towards help. Trying to show her his good side. So in the beginning, most of the kindness he showed her was a way for her to sell him the property. But then, as the story goes, he realized that his priorities changed, and Willow became the person he wanted the most.
This is on the slowburn side because of their dislike for each other, but also because Willow was kind of stubborn and wouldn't back down when it came to Dallas. She was on guard and has an impenetrable wall that she has built around her. She didn't like giving up control, and when she felt her agency was being threatened, her default mode was to pull away.
Dallas did some pulling away too, because he couldn't control his growing attraction to her. But he's also the first to acknowledge the truth that he can't run away from the pull between them. So he slowly showed and told her how much he wanted her and waited for Willow to be on the same page.
While this is a slowburn, this is very much insta-lust. The MCs minds were most of the time in the gutter, and in the beginning, it did get tiring how they kept fantasizing about the things that they wanted to do with each other. I mean, they really did mix hate and lust for the first half of the book, and idk how to feel honestly about it. I wish they focused more on the relationship and character development than the sexual thoughts. I would still count it as a good thing that they didn't act on it right away.
Aside from the never-ending sexual thoughts, there's also the miscommunication. Had only these two talked, and I mean really talked, they wouldn't have had to go through a lot of frustration. But then, I guess, I have to give them some leeway because this is their first time being in a serious relationship. But, maaan, the miscommunication and wrong assumptions really drove me up the wall. 😩
But ngl, I did love them together; they were honestly cute—disgustingly cheesy, if I'm being honest. 🤭 They're not afraid to show everyone around them how much they care for each other. And I just loved how the people surrounding them were genuinely happy for their relationship; it's sweet how the local folks are rooting for them. And how the people were welcoming of Willow.
Anyway, there's a conflict that led to their 5-day separation. Dallas reacted harshly, and although it's understandable at that moment, I still don't have to like it. And of course, Willow runs away again, because that's what she always does. I expected a different reaction from her that time, but alas, that didn't happen. Then again, she did a lot of thinking during those days, talked to people who truly knew her, and made some realizations about what she really wanted out of her life. I'm just glad that it didn't take them a long time to fix the problem, and they still chose to be with one another at the end of the day.
Overall, it was a good read. There were sweet, comical, swoony, heartbreaking, healing, but most of all lovely moments in the story. The found family and the small town vibes were portrayed so well, and I adore how much this sudden trip changed a lot of things—not just for the main characters, but also for the supporting cast. 💖
Book info:
- Small town
- Dislike to love
- Loss of a loved one (past)
- Grief
- PTSD
- Suicidal thoughts
- Abandonment issue
- Grumpy x Grumpy (???)
- No cheating, OPD
- No V (no info on their past)
- Separation (5 days)
- HFN (in a relationship)
- Bonus epilogue (3 yrs later, married with a son and pregnant)
Dallas' (34) father, Michael, was a soldier and, years ago, was once assigned to watch over two journalists on a trip. But the mission took a turn for the worse, and both of these individuals lost their lives. Willow (34) was left an orphan at the age of two, and these people were her parents. Anyway, with the guilt of what happened, Michael decided to make up for it by giving Willow his parents' house.
In the present time, Michael passed away six months ago, and his will made Willow visit this small town she had never heard of before. She inherited the house and decided to fix it, but was unsure whether to sell or keep it.
Apparently, this is the same house Dallas has been wanting to buy for years. His parents didn't tell him it was his grandparents' property, so for years he had no clue who was the owner of it.
When Dallas and Willow met for the first time, it sure started on the wrong foot. They were both judgmental and kind of prickly with each other, so the animosity grew between them. But of course, despite their mutual dislike, there's also this mutual attraction they can't stop, even if they wanted to.
And when Dallas found out that Willow was the new owner of his dream house, he started to change his attitude towards help. Trying to show her his good side. So in the beginning, most of the kindness he showed her was a way for her to sell him the property. But then, as the story goes, he realized that his priorities changed, and Willow became the person he wanted the most.
This is on the slowburn side because of their dislike for each other, but also because Willow was kind of stubborn and wouldn't back down when it came to Dallas. She was on guard and has an impenetrable wall that she has built around her. She didn't like giving up control, and when she felt her agency was being threatened, her default mode was to pull away.
Dallas did some pulling away too, because he couldn't control his growing attraction to her. But he's also the first to acknowledge the truth that he can't run away from the pull between them. So he slowly showed and told her how much he wanted her and waited for Willow to be on the same page.
While this is a slowburn, this is very much insta-lust. The MCs minds were most of the time in the gutter, and in the beginning, it did get tiring how they kept fantasizing about the things that they wanted to do with each other. I mean, they really did mix hate and lust for the first half of the book, and idk how to feel honestly about it. I wish they focused more on the relationship and character development than the sexual thoughts. I would still count it as a good thing that they didn't act on it right away.
Aside from the never-ending sexual thoughts, there's also the miscommunication. Had only these two talked, and I mean really talked, they wouldn't have had to go through a lot of frustration. But then, I guess, I have to give them some leeway because this is their first time being in a serious relationship. But, maaan, the miscommunication and wrong assumptions really drove me up the wall. 😩
But ngl, I did love them together; they were honestly cute—disgustingly cheesy, if I'm being honest. 🤭 They're not afraid to show everyone around them how much they care for each other. And I just loved how the people surrounding them were genuinely happy for their relationship; it's sweet how the local folks are rooting for them. And how the people were welcoming of Willow.
Anyway, there's a conflict that led to their 5-day separation. Dallas reacted harshly, and although it's understandable at that moment, I still don't have to like it. And of course, Willow runs away again, because that's what she always does. I expected a different reaction from her that time, but alas, that didn't happen. Then again, she did a lot of thinking during those days, talked to people who truly knew her, and made some realizations about what she really wanted out of her life. I'm just glad that it didn't take them a long time to fix the problem, and they still chose to be with one another at the end of the day.
Overall, it was a good read. There were sweet, comical, swoony, heartbreaking, healing, but most of all lovely moments in the story. The found family and the small town vibes were portrayed so well, and I adore how much this sudden trip changed a lot of things—not just for the main characters, but also for the supporting cast. 💖
Book info:
- Small town
- Dislike to love
- Loss of a loved one (past)
- Grief
- PTSD
- Suicidal thoughts
- Abandonment issue
- Grumpy x Grumpy (???)
- No cheating, OPD
- No V (no info on their past)
- Separation (5 days)
- HFN (in a relationship)
- Bonus epilogue (3 yrs later, married with a son and pregnant)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2024
That conflict made me so mad because it was so dumb and poorly written. I think part of it was that we didn’t actually learn much about the characters, like we only got bits and pieces about their backstories. But also, I was so mad that she was the one to go back to him because it was 100% his fault and he didn’t do enough to earn her back. I hated that he tried to win her back by texting???? Not even a phone call????? Or driving to DC to find her????? Wtf. Like I get it - it’s deeply troubling to find out that stuff. Also I hated the baiting the author did about her “unexpected visitor” because it was written so weird and it became obvious that it was like a recount to an audience (us).
I think the first time I was like why am I reading this was when she was like “feminism left my body” because I was like why was that a sentence in your mind. It was just so weird and took me out of the book.
Anyway, yeah weird vibes and one dimensional characters.
I think the first time I was like why am I reading this was when she was like “feminism left my body” because I was like why was that a sentence in your mind. It was just so weird and took me out of the book.
Anyway, yeah weird vibes and one dimensional characters.
November 18, 2024
Rating: 2.5⭐️
I don’t really have much to say. It was honestly just a filler read until the next book in the Nyaxia series releases on Tuesday🤷🏻♀️😅
I don’t really have much to say. It was honestly just a filler read until the next book in the Nyaxia series releases on Tuesday🤷🏻♀️😅
June 19, 2024
Somewhere You Belong- Harlow James
Narrated by Connor Crais and MacKenzie Cartwright
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Narration 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
This book! This one had me laughing, crying, swooning, the whole gamut of emotions. We love a strong FMC and swoony MMC. He comes off as a jerk at first, but honestly their back and forth is just foreplay. I’ve heard of a begging kink, but a manners kink?! I’ve heard please so many times in a book but context is key! Our man has a manners kink and I didn’t know it was hot until now. 😂😂
This was such a beautiful story about a girl who was orphaned at 2 years old and grew up to be all work and no play and recently inherited a house from someone. Not knowing anyone from her past she jumped at the opportunity to find out what it was and left her company in the capable hands of the team she built and headed to the small coastal town where this person left her a house. The house needed some work so she decides to stick around for a few months to oversee the repairs. Not only did she find a place with the most gorgeous views possible just by stepping out on her front porch, but it seems there may be a whole small town, more specifically, a hot restaurant/bar owner who helps her let her hair down and feel she has somewhere she belongs. But when he learns of their connection, it might be the end of them.
This narration! This duo was spot freaking on! I’ve been on a Connor Crais kick recently and he kills it every single time, but I wanted to give kudos to MacKenzie. This was the first I’ve heard any of her work and her masculine dirty bedroom talk was on par with Connor’s and I was over here fanning myself. 🥵😂
Narrated by Connor Crais and MacKenzie Cartwright
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Narration 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
This book! This one had me laughing, crying, swooning, the whole gamut of emotions. We love a strong FMC and swoony MMC. He comes off as a jerk at first, but honestly their back and forth is just foreplay. I’ve heard of a begging kink, but a manners kink?! I’ve heard please so many times in a book but context is key! Our man has a manners kink and I didn’t know it was hot until now. 😂😂
This was such a beautiful story about a girl who was orphaned at 2 years old and grew up to be all work and no play and recently inherited a house from someone. Not knowing anyone from her past she jumped at the opportunity to find out what it was and left her company in the capable hands of the team she built and headed to the small coastal town where this person left her a house. The house needed some work so she decides to stick around for a few months to oversee the repairs. Not only did she find a place with the most gorgeous views possible just by stepping out on her front porch, but it seems there may be a whole small town, more specifically, a hot restaurant/bar owner who helps her let her hair down and feel she has somewhere she belongs. But when he learns of their connection, it might be the end of them.
This narration! This duo was spot freaking on! I’ve been on a Connor Crais kick recently and he kills it every single time, but I wanted to give kudos to MacKenzie. This was the first I’ve heard any of her work and her masculine dirty bedroom talk was on par with Connor’s and I was over here fanning myself. 🥵😂
November 10, 2024
Small town charm
There's a lot to love about this series starter, particularly the small town boy meets city girl vibes and the found family feel. I loved the instant friction between them and that our heroine was strong, independent, and a self-made millionaire. The hero is only grumpy because a stunning woman has swept into town, tilted his world on its axis, and moved into the house he's been dreaming about owning for years. While our heroine is a fish out of water, she acclimates quickly to small town life because of the great cast of characters. I'm definitely excited to read more stories set in this small town, and this romance was easy to devour. There were a couple of (very) minor things that bugged me and would've liked more relationship development, but this was a great introduction to this new-to-me author.
The story follows Willow, a workaholic who has been focused on her career for years. Stunned to discover that she's inherited a house from a mystery man, Willow isn't sure what to think. She's never been to the small town where the property is, and she has no plans to move anytime soon. But there's something about the town that is just so enticing. Other than one sexy grump of a bar owner, everyone in town has been kind and welcoming to Willow. And as she gets to know that sexy bar owner better, Willow soon realizes that Dallas is a genuinely good guy too. It's impossible to deny the sparks that fly between them, even though they both know that starting something up is a terrible idea. As Willow and Dallas grow closer, they struggle with their own reasons to stay away.
I've heard great things about this book, so I was excited to dive in. I love a fish out of water romance, and I love some strangers to lovers friction as well. It started off so strong - though Dallas is irritated with Willow at first, he just can't seem to stay away. It was easy to empathize with his situation, and I loved the different layers to him. Willow was also a compelling heroine, and it was clear that the community was good for her. Their relationship seemed to develop quickly and stayed a bit more lust-focused than I'd like, so I definitely wouldn't have minded more moments when they dug beneath the surface. The story does explore some heavier themes like PTSD and the way being in the military can impact someone's life, though it's lighthearted overall. I'm intrigued by Dallas' brothers, so I'll be sure to check out more from the author. I didn't particularly love the "secret" and its impact on the story, or Dallas' style of possessiveness in the spicy scenes ("owning" her), but neither of those things held me back from enjoying the story overall. It was very solid, and an emotional, engaging read.
Audio note: The audio was great! I'm always happy to hear Connor Crais' voice, which was perfect for Dallas. He's all deep tones and gruff, growly moments, which was great. MacKenzie Cartwright also gives a very good performance. I find her voice relaxing and easy to listen to, so no complaints there. The runtime (10 hours) made for a full-day listen, but I enjoyed it the whole way through. I wouldn't call this a "slow" burn, but the spice takes awhile to truly kick in. It does get pretty spicy later on though, so I wouldn't recommend this as an office listen. Otherwise, wholeheartedly recommended in the format.
There's a lot to love about this series starter, particularly the small town boy meets city girl vibes and the found family feel. I loved the instant friction between them and that our heroine was strong, independent, and a self-made millionaire. The hero is only grumpy because a stunning woman has swept into town, tilted his world on its axis, and moved into the house he's been dreaming about owning for years. While our heroine is a fish out of water, she acclimates quickly to small town life because of the great cast of characters. I'm definitely excited to read more stories set in this small town, and this romance was easy to devour. There were a couple of (very) minor things that bugged me and would've liked more relationship development, but this was a great introduction to this new-to-me author.
The story follows Willow, a workaholic who has been focused on her career for years. Stunned to discover that she's inherited a house from a mystery man, Willow isn't sure what to think. She's never been to the small town where the property is, and she has no plans to move anytime soon. But there's something about the town that is just so enticing. Other than one sexy grump of a bar owner, everyone in town has been kind and welcoming to Willow. And as she gets to know that sexy bar owner better, Willow soon realizes that Dallas is a genuinely good guy too. It's impossible to deny the sparks that fly between them, even though they both know that starting something up is a terrible idea. As Willow and Dallas grow closer, they struggle with their own reasons to stay away.
I've heard great things about this book, so I was excited to dive in. I love a fish out of water romance, and I love some strangers to lovers friction as well. It started off so strong - though Dallas is irritated with Willow at first, he just can't seem to stay away. It was easy to empathize with his situation, and I loved the different layers to him. Willow was also a compelling heroine, and it was clear that the community was good for her. Their relationship seemed to develop quickly and stayed a bit more lust-focused than I'd like, so I definitely wouldn't have minded more moments when they dug beneath the surface. The story does explore some heavier themes like PTSD and the way being in the military can impact someone's life, though it's lighthearted overall. I'm intrigued by Dallas' brothers, so I'll be sure to check out more from the author. I didn't particularly love the "secret" and its impact on the story, or Dallas' style of possessiveness in the spicy scenes ("owning" her), but neither of those things held me back from enjoying the story overall. It was very solid, and an emotional, engaging read.
Audio note: The audio was great! I'm always happy to hear Connor Crais' voice, which was perfect for Dallas. He's all deep tones and gruff, growly moments, which was great. MacKenzie Cartwright also gives a very good performance. I find her voice relaxing and easy to listen to, so no complaints there. The runtime (10 hours) made for a full-day listen, but I enjoyed it the whole way through. I wouldn't call this a "slow" burn, but the spice takes awhile to truly kick in. It does get pretty spicy later on though, so I wouldn't recommend this as an office listen. Otherwise, wholeheartedly recommended in the format.
June 22, 2024
Willow receives the news that she's been left a house in Carrington Cove. A place she's never been. A workaholic from DC, she owns her own business and doesn't have the time to mess with this.
So when she arrives at Carrington Cove and meets local bar owner/bartender Dallas, she has no patience for him. And when she's attacked by some geese at the house and he's there, she DEFINITELY doesn't have patience for him.
Dallas is a former Marine who's recently suffered a big family loss. And when he finds out his dream house is actually owned and he can't buy it, he's kinda let down.
I enjoyed the banter between these two. They didn't give each other any slack. Willow is also the new woman in town, and she's immediately shown friendship by Astrid, who works for Dallas. I'm always a fan of female friendships.
I can't wait for book 2 because some angst was laid out in this book for it!!
So when she arrives at Carrington Cove and meets local bar owner/bartender Dallas, she has no patience for him. And when she's attacked by some geese at the house and he's there, she DEFINITELY doesn't have patience for him.
Dallas is a former Marine who's recently suffered a big family loss. And when he finds out his dream house is actually owned and he can't buy it, he's kinda let down.
I enjoyed the banter between these two. They didn't give each other any slack. Willow is also the new woman in town, and she's immediately shown friendship by Astrid, who works for Dallas. I'm always a fan of female friendships.
I can't wait for book 2 because some angst was laid out in this book for it!!
July 2, 2024
A solid 3.5 ⭐️
Any small town romance with a grumpy MC is a recipe for a heartwarming story.
In this case, however, both of them are grumps.
Willow hasn’t felt enough for all of her life. She was adamant to keep people at a distance so that she can protect her heart and feel in control. She’s a successful self made millionaire who’s needed for nothing except to belong.
Dallas is an ex-marine grump who, like any other war veteran, has gone through a lot especially when his job of choice was always a source of contempt with his father who was also an ex-marine.
Willow inherits a house in Carrington Cove. She goes to investigate about why and who left it to her. She decides to renovate it and put it on the market. However, she did not count on the charm of a small town, its inhabitants and a handsome grumpy bar owner 😏
Both MCs harbour secrets, and once these are revealed, will their love stand the test of betrayal, lies and deceit?
It’s a sweet read. No alpha possessive vibes. No cheating or flirting with ow/m.
But yes a knack for proper manners especially during s*x 🤭
SPOILERS AHEAD
I didn’t find the reason for their third act breakup plausible enough. Yes it is a shock! Yes it is unexpected! But the reactions and the aftermath were unwarranted.
It also drove me crazy how obstinate Willow is regarding the house. Even though she’s a multimillionaire in no need for more green bills 💵 and even though Dallas’s lifetime dream was to end up living in that house, she never once considered giving it back to him or even selling it to him. Selfish much?! Absolutely.
Any small town romance with a grumpy MC is a recipe for a heartwarming story.
In this case, however, both of them are grumps.
Willow hasn’t felt enough for all of her life. She was adamant to keep people at a distance so that she can protect her heart and feel in control. She’s a successful self made millionaire who’s needed for nothing except to belong.
Dallas is an ex-marine grump who, like any other war veteran, has gone through a lot especially when his job of choice was always a source of contempt with his father who was also an ex-marine.
Willow inherits a house in Carrington Cove. She goes to investigate about why and who left it to her. She decides to renovate it and put it on the market. However, she did not count on the charm of a small town, its inhabitants and a handsome grumpy bar owner 😏
Both MCs harbour secrets, and once these are revealed, will their love stand the test of betrayal, lies and deceit?
It’s a sweet read. No alpha possessive vibes. No cheating or flirting with ow/m.
But yes a knack for proper manners especially during s*x 🤭
SPOILERS AHEAD
I didn’t find the reason for their third act breakup plausible enough. Yes it is a shock! Yes it is unexpected! But the reactions and the aftermath were unwarranted.
It also drove me crazy how obstinate Willow is regarding the house. Even though she’s a multimillionaire in no need for more green bills 💵 and even though Dallas’s lifetime dream was to end up living in that house, she never once considered giving it back to him or even selling it to him. Selfish much?! Absolutely.
June 19, 2024
Wow!! this is my first Harlow James book and it absolutely did not disappoint!!
Dallas is the owner of the local beach towns restaurant/bar. He is an ex-marine and is grumpy as can be. Until… one night a blonde bombshell walks into his restaurant and might actually be grumpier than him LOL
Willow is in town after a call from the local attorney’s office telling her there is a letter there for her that she needs to see. She inherited a house on the beach… the very house that Dallas has wanted since he was young.
This story was so freaking beautiful. The way their paths collided and their fates were sealed was just amazing. Also Dallas calling her “Goose” because when he first showed up to the beach house she was fighting them off and screaming has me cackling still.
I cannot WAIT for book 2 in this series and y’all need to be grabbing this one when it comes out on June 21st!!
Tropes
-ex marine X she’s a billionaire
-grumpy X grumpy
-the letters 😭
-he has a “manners” kink
-hidden past
Dallas is the owner of the local beach towns restaurant/bar. He is an ex-marine and is grumpy as can be. Until… one night a blonde bombshell walks into his restaurant and might actually be grumpier than him LOL
Willow is in town after a call from the local attorney’s office telling her there is a letter there for her that she needs to see. She inherited a house on the beach… the very house that Dallas has wanted since he was young.
This story was so freaking beautiful. The way their paths collided and their fates were sealed was just amazing. Also Dallas calling her “Goose” because when he first showed up to the beach house she was fighting them off and screaming has me cackling still.
I cannot WAIT for book 2 in this series and y’all need to be grabbing this one when it comes out on June 21st!!
Tropes
-ex marine X she’s a billionaire
-grumpy X grumpy
-the letters 😭
-he has a “manners” kink
-hidden past
June 23, 2024
A small coastal town enemies to lovers where he has a manners k!nk?? OBSESSED!!
I loved all the side characters, the tension, the chemistry, the plot twists, the setting 10/10!!
I loved all the side characters, the tension, the chemistry, the plot twists, the setting 10/10!!
June 5, 2024
They were fated! And this isn’t even a paranormal romance!!!
June 26, 2024
I cannot tell you how excited I was when Harlow announced her new series! Having just finished up the new audio releases of her Newberry Springs series, I was eager to dive right into this one!
We got a glimpse of Willow back in Newberry Springs as the best friend of Shauna, as well as the owner of a very successful advertisement company in DC. But the arrival of a letter in the mail one day suddenly brings Willow’s past back to the forefront as she heads to Carrington Cove and the house she inherited from a stranger.
It is there that she has a less than pleasant introduction to Dallas, a former marine and local bar owner. He’s a bit suspicious of this big city newcomer, but as their paths continue to cross in the small coastal town, the more they realize that they can’t always rely on first impressions.
This was a wonderful, heart warming story but with Harlow’s flare for lots of fun, laughs, and spice! And a few sassy geese…
I loved this book and the journey Dallas and Willow took to find love. I also adored all of the secondary characters, and I cannot wait to see what’s in store for Dallas’s siblings in the future!
🎧 Audio Review: Connor Crais and Mackenzie Cartwright put on fabulous performances with this audio. It was so much fun to listen to while traveling, and it definitely had me second guess my camping trip vs going to the beach. The laughs and drama…they brought it all!
𝚝 𝚛 𝚘 𝚙 𝚎 𝚜:
🌊 small town romance
🥃 enemies to lovers
🌊 he falls first
🥃 she’s the millionaire
🌊 he’s the grumpy bar owner
We got a glimpse of Willow back in Newberry Springs as the best friend of Shauna, as well as the owner of a very successful advertisement company in DC. But the arrival of a letter in the mail one day suddenly brings Willow’s past back to the forefront as she heads to Carrington Cove and the house she inherited from a stranger.
It is there that she has a less than pleasant introduction to Dallas, a former marine and local bar owner. He’s a bit suspicious of this big city newcomer, but as their paths continue to cross in the small coastal town, the more they realize that they can’t always rely on first impressions.
This was a wonderful, heart warming story but with Harlow’s flare for lots of fun, laughs, and spice! And a few sassy geese…
I loved this book and the journey Dallas and Willow took to find love. I also adored all of the secondary characters, and I cannot wait to see what’s in store for Dallas’s siblings in the future!
🎧 Audio Review: Connor Crais and Mackenzie Cartwright put on fabulous performances with this audio. It was so much fun to listen to while traveling, and it definitely had me second guess my camping trip vs going to the beach. The laughs and drama…they brought it all!
𝚝 𝚛 𝚘 𝚙 𝚎 𝚜:
🌊 small town romance
🥃 enemies to lovers
🌊 he falls first
🥃 she’s the millionaire
🌊 he’s the grumpy bar owner
June 21, 2024
Rating: 9/10⭐️
Spice: 2/5🌶
Tropes:small town; he falls first; enemies to lovers;
Favorite Quote: "I want to be your fuking anchor, Willow. I want to keep you here, in the same place as me, and build a life with you. I want to hold you and protect you from any storm that comes our way."
Willow gets a letter that she inherited a property in Carrington Cove and has to go there to see it and figure out what she's gonna do with it.. Well, when she gets there she sees it needs some work so decides to get said work done. But those plans are derailed when she meets Dallas, the broody bar and restaurant owner. He’s always wanted the house she just inherited and while sparks fly between them, secrets and an unknown connection stir in the background forcing them to face their own traumas and discover what’s really important.
no, but how does Harlow do it every time? I loved this book SO MUCH!! like the fact that Dallas calls her Goose it's so precious. I just loved Dallas's grumpy personality just as much as I loved Willow's take no shiz personality.
The prologue man oh man that hurt my heart. & Can I say I love how Harlow wrote this book with a little bit of mystery.... like who was her surprise guest?
If you are looking for a story with relatable characters full of emotion and ANGST
look no further this one is IT
& can i say, the audio is fanfriggentastic.
like LOVED IT SO MUCH!
Spice: 2/5🌶
Tropes:small town; he falls first; enemies to lovers;
Favorite Quote: "I want to be your fuking anchor, Willow. I want to keep you here, in the same place as me, and build a life with you. I want to hold you and protect you from any storm that comes our way."
Willow gets a letter that she inherited a property in Carrington Cove and has to go there to see it and figure out what she's gonna do with it.. Well, when she gets there she sees it needs some work so decides to get said work done. But those plans are derailed when she meets Dallas, the broody bar and restaurant owner. He’s always wanted the house she just inherited and while sparks fly between them, secrets and an unknown connection stir in the background forcing them to face their own traumas and discover what’s really important.
no, but how does Harlow do it every time? I loved this book SO MUCH!! like the fact that Dallas calls her Goose it's so precious. I just loved Dallas's grumpy personality just as much as I loved Willow's take no shiz personality.
The prologue man oh man that hurt my heart. & Can I say I love how Harlow wrote this book with a little bit of mystery.... like who was her surprise guest?
If you are looking for a story with relatable characters full of emotion and ANGST
look no further this one is IT
& can i say, the audio is fanfriggentastic.
like LOVED IT SO MUCH!
June 10, 2024
There is something so comforting about reading this author’s books. This one is no different! I fell in love from the start, even pulling at the heartstrings from page one!
Always so raw and real, with characters having such realistic and relatable traits and personalities, I can never get enough. I connected with Willow and Dallas and couldn’t help but want more from them, and root for their happiness from the start, especially with all the ups and downs they with faced with.
These two didn’t have the best first meeting, some assumptions were made-but there was also an undeniable attraction and chemistry that completely caught them both off guard! It led to some fun interactions.
Willow does not do relationships, she is focused on her business and I love how determined and hardworking she is! But her life is all work, and she really does need to take time for herself. My heart melted anytime Dallas put his grumpiness aside to show Willow that he is actually a pretty good guy. The way he saw her and took the time to get to know her, beyond swoony!Top book boyfriend material!
I loved everything about Willow!! She hated the idea of being stuck in this small town for longer than needed when she first arrived. I was so wonderful watching as she explored and got to know people. My heart bursting with pride for her as she discovered so much about herself and her desires along the way.
This one hit the emotions and my heart hurt for both Willow and Dallas. They both had things in their past to cause trauma, making it hard to navigate big changes in their lives, especially ones that brought feelings to the forefront.
Let’s just say, these two are meant to be! And it was an absolutely beautiful journey for them.
The writing is fantastic and I love the way Harlow described the small town of Covington. It makes me want to go for a visit, and could easily picture all the details! I am beyond excited for more stories in this world.
5⭐️
**thank you to the author for an ARC. This review and its opinions are my own
Always so raw and real, with characters having such realistic and relatable traits and personalities, I can never get enough. I connected with Willow and Dallas and couldn’t help but want more from them, and root for their happiness from the start, especially with all the ups and downs they with faced with.
These two didn’t have the best first meeting, some assumptions were made-but there was also an undeniable attraction and chemistry that completely caught them both off guard! It led to some fun interactions.
Willow does not do relationships, she is focused on her business and I love how determined and hardworking she is! But her life is all work, and she really does need to take time for herself. My heart melted anytime Dallas put his grumpiness aside to show Willow that he is actually a pretty good guy. The way he saw her and took the time to get to know her, beyond swoony!Top book boyfriend material!
I loved everything about Willow!! She hated the idea of being stuck in this small town for longer than needed when she first arrived. I was so wonderful watching as she explored and got to know people. My heart bursting with pride for her as she discovered so much about herself and her desires along the way.
This one hit the emotions and my heart hurt for both Willow and Dallas. They both had things in their past to cause trauma, making it hard to navigate big changes in their lives, especially ones that brought feelings to the forefront.
Let’s just say, these two are meant to be! And it was an absolutely beautiful journey for them.
The writing is fantastic and I love the way Harlow described the small town of Covington. It makes me want to go for a visit, and could easily picture all the details! I am beyond excited for more stories in this world.
5⭐️
**thank you to the author for an ARC. This review and its opinions are my own
June 15, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ | 🎧 | 🌶🌶 (2.5)
First of all, thank you so much to Harlow James and The Author Agency for an ALC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This is such a great small town romance and I LOVED that the millionaire role was given to the MMC instead of the FMC. The twists and turns of their relationships were cute and unexpected and I really enjoyed how the author set up her future books by making us fall in love with all the characters in Covington Cove.
Strongly recommend for lovers of a solid small town spicy romance (because yes, the spice was great too 🥵). I also really loved the male narrator!
First of all, thank you so much to Harlow James and The Author Agency for an ALC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This is such a great small town romance and I LOVED that the millionaire role was given to the MMC instead of the FMC. The twists and turns of their relationships were cute and unexpected and I really enjoyed how the author set up her future books by making us fall in love with all the characters in Covington Cove.
Strongly recommend for lovers of a solid small town spicy romance (because yes, the spice was great too 🥵). I also really loved the male narrator!
July 17, 2025
Why this book never saved under my reads I don’t know but it was amazing!
Small town, enemies to lovers, beach read! I was so here for it! Can’t wait to continue the rest like very soon! 💕
Small town, enemies to lovers, beach read! I was so here for it! Can’t wait to continue the rest like very soon! 💕
June 21, 2024
Rating: 👍🏼
Spice: Open Door
Series: Carrington Cove, book 1
🩵Small Town Setting
🩵Enemies to Lovers
🩵Insta Love
🩵He falls first
🩵Forced Proximity
🩵Opposites Attract
🩵Grumpy/Grumpy
🩵Veteran MMC
🩵Family secrets
🩵Millionaire FMC
🩵Dual POV / 1st POV
⚠️Check triggers; PTSD, loss of a parent and others.
"One letter changed my life.
One night with him might change my forever."
I'm not sure there could be a book more meant to be a summer read! This put me in the beach mood immediately. Willow gets a letter that changes everything. She has inherited a beautiful beach house she knew nothing about. Dallas has wanted that house all his life and NEEDS her to sell it to him, but she refuses to sell it to such a grump.
Harlow wrote the perfect formula of moments. We have laugh until your side hurts moments with the geese. Hard topics talked about like PTSD. And THE SPICE 🥵. That bar scene, yesssss!
I absolutely loved the audio and think Mackenzie and Connor did a great job bringing these characters to life.
Thank you Harlow and @theau for this ARC/ALC!
Spice: Open Door
Series: Carrington Cove, book 1
🩵Small Town Setting
🩵Enemies to Lovers
🩵Insta Love
🩵He falls first
🩵Forced Proximity
🩵Opposites Attract
🩵Grumpy/Grumpy
🩵Veteran MMC
🩵Family secrets
🩵Millionaire FMC
🩵Dual POV / 1st POV
⚠️Check triggers; PTSD, loss of a parent and others.
"One letter changed my life.
One night with him might change my forever."
I'm not sure there could be a book more meant to be a summer read! This put me in the beach mood immediately. Willow gets a letter that changes everything. She has inherited a beautiful beach house she knew nothing about. Dallas has wanted that house all his life and NEEDS her to sell it to him, but she refuses to sell it to such a grump.
Harlow wrote the perfect formula of moments. We have laugh until your side hurts moments with the geese. Hard topics talked about like PTSD. And THE SPICE 🥵. That bar scene, yesssss!
I absolutely loved the audio and think Mackenzie and Connor did a great job bringing these characters to life.
Thank you Harlow and @theau for this ARC/ALC!
July 7, 2024
4.5 I could’ve lived without the whole Goose nickname tbh but it’s fine bc he is a marine and it turns out I’m a sucker for that
July 5, 2024
"Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a chair to put together."
"Do you even have tools?"
Defeat pulls my shoulders down as I pinch the bridge of my nose and close my eyes. "No."
"So how are you planning on putting this together?"
"Through telepathy?"
This is a wonderful book about a successful businesswoman from D.C. in her mid-thirties who inherits a house in a small town under strange circumstances. She plans to renovate and then sell it, but instead she finds a home, love, and herself.
It's a cute, sometimes emotional story with a few surprises, wise words about wounds and grief, and just the right amount of banter. The main characters are both likable, they lacked a little bit of depth regarding their backgrounds, though. The only thing I couldn’t stand was Dallas affectionately calling Willow "goose" – that has to be one of the worst pet names ever.
However, I enjoyed my time in Carrington Cove and will be back for Astrid and Penn's story (to be published in fall 2024).
Overall rating: 4
Story: 4/5
Emotion: 4/5
Dallas: 4/5
Willow: 4/5
June 19, 2024
Audio is fantastic! Chapter 20 is a doozy! 🤧
Dallas and Willow are both so grumpy and I love it! Somewhere You Belong kicks off a new series from Harlow James and features a small town romance in a coastal town called Carrington Cove. Willow is summoned to the town by a lawyer with paperwork to sign, a message for her, and a very surprising inheritance…..a beach house. What she thinks is an old dusty house she will flip and sell becomes so much more than she expected. However, she now owns the house Dallas has ALWAYS wanted. Willow meets Dallas’ brother, Penn, who is a local contractor and handyman. Penn starts work on Willow’s house while she helps and finds herself and potential happiness in the small town. Could she lay anchor in Carrington Cove and find true love and happiness? There are several scenes with grumpy geese that harass Willow and earn her the nickname, “Goose,” from Dallas. This story is sure to be an instant success with the coastal, spicy hallmark vibes. I am so excited for this new series from Harlow James!!!!
Dallas and Willow are both so grumpy and I love it! Somewhere You Belong kicks off a new series from Harlow James and features a small town romance in a coastal town called Carrington Cove. Willow is summoned to the town by a lawyer with paperwork to sign, a message for her, and a very surprising inheritance…..a beach house. What she thinks is an old dusty house she will flip and sell becomes so much more than she expected. However, she now owns the house Dallas has ALWAYS wanted. Willow meets Dallas’ brother, Penn, who is a local contractor and handyman. Penn starts work on Willow’s house while she helps and finds herself and potential happiness in the small town. Could she lay anchor in Carrington Cove and find true love and happiness? There are several scenes with grumpy geese that harass Willow and earn her the nickname, “Goose,” from Dallas. This story is sure to be an instant success with the coastal, spicy hallmark vibes. I am so excited for this new series from Harlow James!!!!
June 22, 2024
4.5 stars
I love starting a new series, a new small town, new characters to meet, and the promise of more visits to the small town for a while. Carrington Cove is a place I would want to live, or at least visit for a while.
This book is no different, from when Willow walks into Dallas’s bar I was hooked. This story is a page turner, as one secret is revealed another comes to the surface. I could have easly read it in one sitting, but I needed sleep.
I am excited for the next book, and more from Carrington Cove.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
I love starting a new series, a new small town, new characters to meet, and the promise of more visits to the small town for a while. Carrington Cove is a place I would want to live, or at least visit for a while.
This book is no different, from when Willow walks into Dallas’s bar I was hooked. This story is a page turner, as one secret is revealed another comes to the surface. I could have easly read it in one sitting, but I needed sleep.
I am excited for the next book, and more from Carrington Cove.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
June 10, 2024
OVERALL: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
•Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
▪︎Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶/ 5
•Narration: 🎧🎧🎧 🎧🎧/5 (Dual Style)
•Swoon level: 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠/5
•Bookshelf Worthy: 📚📚📚📚📚/5
•Platform: Audio and E-book
•Recommend: Yep
▪︎Re-read/re-listen: Sure will
•Trope: Small town Romance, Enimies tonLovers, he falls first.
• Thoughts:
I am still gathering my thoughts! You guys!! What a freaking amazing story!! I loved this! I loved this town. I loved the characters, and I adored and LOVED Dallas and Willow. I was enamored with this book from the dedication!! I loved that the first interaction they had was him reminding her if having manors. I cackled and thought... oh, man, this is going to be so good!So much "love" is being used. But I very much enjoyed this book, and I am so looking forward to what happens with the rest of the series. Willow and her trauma and watching her character grow was such a great thing! I am positively giddy when the MMC falls first. And he fell hard!!! Can we talk about his flithy mouth?!?! Oh.. my... hell!! I am pretty sure there were several times during this book where I was like, daaannnnngggggg, check out the mouth on this guy! The push and pull between these characters we spot on!! I don't think I could have loved this story more. This series is going to be so good! I loved the nickname Dallas gave Willow. It was fun and unique. Seriously, this was an incredible 1st book for what I know is going to be an epic!!! Series! This made me so happy!
Narrator Thoughts:
Mckenzie Cartwright and Connor Crais are the narrators. Wowzaa! They were amazing. They both brought heart to these characters. But I mean, really? Is anyone surprised? 10 out of 10, and I would highly recommend the audio!!
•Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
▪︎Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶/ 5
•Narration: 🎧🎧🎧 🎧🎧/5 (Dual Style)
•Swoon level: 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠/5
•Bookshelf Worthy: 📚📚📚📚📚/5
•Platform: Audio and E-book
•Recommend: Yep
▪︎Re-read/re-listen: Sure will
•Trope: Small town Romance, Enimies tonLovers, he falls first.
• Thoughts:
I am still gathering my thoughts! You guys!! What a freaking amazing story!! I loved this! I loved this town. I loved the characters, and I adored and LOVED Dallas and Willow. I was enamored with this book from the dedication!! I loved that the first interaction they had was him reminding her if having manors. I cackled and thought... oh, man, this is going to be so good!So much "love" is being used. But I very much enjoyed this book, and I am so looking forward to what happens with the rest of the series. Willow and her trauma and watching her character grow was such a great thing! I am positively giddy when the MMC falls first. And he fell hard!!! Can we talk about his flithy mouth?!?! Oh.. my... hell!! I am pretty sure there were several times during this book where I was like, daaannnnngggggg, check out the mouth on this guy! The push and pull between these characters we spot on!! I don't think I could have loved this story more. This series is going to be so good! I loved the nickname Dallas gave Willow. It was fun and unique. Seriously, this was an incredible 1st book for what I know is going to be an epic!!! Series! This made me so happy!
Narrator Thoughts:
Mckenzie Cartwright and Connor Crais are the narrators. Wowzaa! They were amazing. They both brought heart to these characters. But I mean, really? Is anyone surprised? 10 out of 10, and I would highly recommend the audio!!
June 14, 2024
4.5☆
This was such a beautiful story, a small town, enemies to lovers romance with a difference. I was not expecting the level of emotion this one would draw out of me and it is a testament to Harlow’s writing. It was balanced beautifully with emotion, swoon, steam and humour.
Willow is a successful businesswoman who inherits a home from a man she’s never met, taking her to the small town of Carrington Cove. Her plan is to fix up the home and sell it, she’s busy and has a life to get back to. But those plans are derailed when she meets Dallas, the broody bar and restaurant owner. He’s always wanted the house she just inherited and while sparks fly between them, secrets and an unknown connection stir in the background forcing them to face their own traumas and discover what’s really important.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁: small town, enemies to lovers, they’re both grumpy, millionaire fmc, former military mmc, found family, he falls first.
Willow is a strong, independent and fiery fmc who uses sarcasm and snark as a defence which I could totally relate to. I loved her instantly, because while she was the perfect grump, the way she softened for this town and its people was beautiful. The growth she has over this story was admirable and done so well.
I adored Dallas + Willow, they were so good together and for each other. Both have their own traumas and painful pasts, so they have their guards up but neither can deny the sparks flying between them. The way their stories intertwined, how it all came together was beautiful while also having me nervous about what was about to happen. I loved the way they found healing and happiness with each other.
Harlow introduced us to great side characters I loved and became invested in. The dynamic and banter between them was great and the found family vibes gave me the warm and fuzzies. The way this book ended has me instantly itching for book two.
This was such a beautiful story, a small town, enemies to lovers romance with a difference. I was not expecting the level of emotion this one would draw out of me and it is a testament to Harlow’s writing. It was balanced beautifully with emotion, swoon, steam and humour.
Willow is a successful businesswoman who inherits a home from a man she’s never met, taking her to the small town of Carrington Cove. Her plan is to fix up the home and sell it, she’s busy and has a life to get back to. But those plans are derailed when she meets Dallas, the broody bar and restaurant owner. He’s always wanted the house she just inherited and while sparks fly between them, secrets and an unknown connection stir in the background forcing them to face their own traumas and discover what’s really important.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁: small town, enemies to lovers, they’re both grumpy, millionaire fmc, former military mmc, found family, he falls first.
Willow is a strong, independent and fiery fmc who uses sarcasm and snark as a defence which I could totally relate to. I loved her instantly, because while she was the perfect grump, the way she softened for this town and its people was beautiful. The growth she has over this story was admirable and done so well.
I adored Dallas + Willow, they were so good together and for each other. Both have their own traumas and painful pasts, so they have their guards up but neither can deny the sparks flying between them. The way their stories intertwined, how it all came together was beautiful while also having me nervous about what was about to happen. I loved the way they found healing and happiness with each other.
Harlow introduced us to great side characters I loved and became invested in. The dynamic and banter between them was great and the found family vibes gave me the warm and fuzzies. The way this book ended has me instantly itching for book two.
June 26, 2024
5 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️
This was my first Harlow James book & let’s just say after reading this story, I’m officially a fan! I loved her writing, the plot, the characters, the romance, the tension & chemistry between Willow & Dallas, how their paths crossed & what brought one to the other, honestly loved everything about this! This was such an emotional & beautiful story, the way their paths crossed & how they were meant to be together was just amazing 🖤
Willow lives in D.C & one day receives a letter from the local attorney’s office in Carrington Cove that she’s been left an inheritance & must come to town to find out more about it. On her first night there, she meets Dallas, the local bar owner & they immediately butt heads. Turns out, the house she’s inherited, is the same house Dallas has had his eye on for a while. When willow is reluctant to sell it to him, tension rises between the two, but so does their undeniable attraction for one another. And it’s getting harder & harder to fight it every day.
This is a definitely a must add to your TBR & I’m so excited to keep reading this series, I have a feeling Penn & Astrid’s story is going to be just as amazing! 😮💨
Tropes:
- Small town
- Enemies to lovers
- Ex Marine x Billionaire CEO
- Grumpy Hero & Heroine
- He falls first
- Found family
- Family Secrets
Thank you to Harlow & The Author Agency for the ARC ✨
2.5 🌶️
This was my first Harlow James book & let’s just say after reading this story, I’m officially a fan! I loved her writing, the plot, the characters, the romance, the tension & chemistry between Willow & Dallas, how their paths crossed & what brought one to the other, honestly loved everything about this! This was such an emotional & beautiful story, the way their paths crossed & how they were meant to be together was just amazing 🖤
Willow lives in D.C & one day receives a letter from the local attorney’s office in Carrington Cove that she’s been left an inheritance & must come to town to find out more about it. On her first night there, she meets Dallas, the local bar owner & they immediately butt heads. Turns out, the house she’s inherited, is the same house Dallas has had his eye on for a while. When willow is reluctant to sell it to him, tension rises between the two, but so does their undeniable attraction for one another. And it’s getting harder & harder to fight it every day.
This is a definitely a must add to your TBR & I’m so excited to keep reading this series, I have a feeling Penn & Astrid’s story is going to be just as amazing! 😮💨
Tropes:
- Small town
- Enemies to lovers
- Ex Marine x Billionaire CEO
- Grumpy Hero & Heroine
- He falls first
- Found family
- Family Secrets
Thank you to Harlow & The Author Agency for the ARC ✨
June 15, 2024
"I want to be your f–king anchor, Willow. I want to keep you here, in the same place as me, and build a life with you. I want to hold you and protect you from any storm that comes our way."
- Small town
- She’s the millionaire
- City girl x small-town boy
- Dislike to love
- Former Marine MC
- Grumpy x grumpy
- He calls her Goose
- She has the f–k it moment!
- Dual POV
- Narrated by Connor Crais & Mackenzie Cartwright
Premise: You’re the owner of a multi-million dollar DC advertising firm and get a letter stating you’ve inherited a house in a small coastal North Carolina town from a stranger connected to your parents, whom you lost when you were two. A house that the former marine/local restaurant owner wants.
Harlow said this has Wade and Zoe from Hart of Dixie vibes, and I couldn’t agree more! The city girl who’s never really felt like she belonged, who chose her career over love, finding a home, a life, and the person that makes her feel safe, loved, and protected in a cute small town.
Willow and Dallas definitely don’t like each other in the beginning. There’s great banter and tension as she doesn’t give him the one thing he’s always wanted – the house. But there’s this pivotal moment when he realises he wants her more than the house, which made my heart melt.
“She’s the most complex puzzle I’ve ever come across, and I’m dying to figure out how her pieces fit together.”
It’s not a Harlow book without some spice, and there may be a hot scene when the restaurant closes for the night… and he uses her as a human shot glass 🫢. Also, this: “You might be the boss in the boardroom, but I’m your boss in the bedroom. Got it?” “Yes, sir.” Yes, sir, indeed 😮💨. Also, the manners kink? Who knew that’d be hot?
Waiting for Dallas to discover Willow's secret will have you feeling tense, but the ending is oh so worth it. This is the perfect start to this new series, introducing you to the charming Carrington Cove. I’m looking forward to the next book, that's for sure!
Thank you to Harlow and The Author Agency for the early copies!
- Small town
- She’s the millionaire
- City girl x small-town boy
- Dislike to love
- Former Marine MC
- Grumpy x grumpy
- He calls her Goose
- She has the f–k it moment!
- Dual POV
- Narrated by Connor Crais & Mackenzie Cartwright
Premise: You’re the owner of a multi-million dollar DC advertising firm and get a letter stating you’ve inherited a house in a small coastal North Carolina town from a stranger connected to your parents, whom you lost when you were two. A house that the former marine/local restaurant owner wants.
Harlow said this has Wade and Zoe from Hart of Dixie vibes, and I couldn’t agree more! The city girl who’s never really felt like she belonged, who chose her career over love, finding a home, a life, and the person that makes her feel safe, loved, and protected in a cute small town.
Willow and Dallas definitely don’t like each other in the beginning. There’s great banter and tension as she doesn’t give him the one thing he’s always wanted – the house. But there’s this pivotal moment when he realises he wants her more than the house, which made my heart melt.
“She’s the most complex puzzle I’ve ever come across, and I’m dying to figure out how her pieces fit together.”
It’s not a Harlow book without some spice, and there may be a hot scene when the restaurant closes for the night… and he uses her as a human shot glass 🫢. Also, this: “You might be the boss in the boardroom, but I’m your boss in the bedroom. Got it?” “Yes, sir.” Yes, sir, indeed 😮💨. Also, the manners kink? Who knew that’d be hot?
Waiting for Dallas to discover Willow's secret will have you feeling tense, but the ending is oh so worth it. This is the perfect start to this new series, introducing you to the charming Carrington Cove. I’m looking forward to the next book, that's for sure!
Thank you to Harlow and The Author Agency for the early copies!
June 21, 2024
Another amazing series by the fabulous Harlow James!!
Somewhere You Belong is a heartwarming love story that will pull at your heartstrings while also getting you all worked up 🌶️🥵 if you know what I mean…. because Dallas, my oh my!! Former Marine, need I say more? He is so loving and caring, with his odd kink and secret past.
Willow has no idea what she’s getting into when she comes down to Carrington Cove but quickly learns that life by the beach isn’t like city life, and everything she’s known may not be what she needs anymore.
I’ve loved following Dallas & Willow’s love story, their banter didn’t let down and the 🌶️ scenes were 👌🏻. My favorite part is probably his nickname for her 🥹
The narrators Connor Crais & Mackenzie Cartwright were absolutely perfect!
Somewhere You Belong is a heartwarming love story that will pull at your heartstrings while also getting you all worked up 🌶️🥵 if you know what I mean…. because Dallas, my oh my!! Former Marine, need I say more? He is so loving and caring, with his odd kink and secret past.
Willow has no idea what she’s getting into when she comes down to Carrington Cove but quickly learns that life by the beach isn’t like city life, and everything she’s known may not be what she needs anymore.
I’ve loved following Dallas & Willow’s love story, their banter didn’t let down and the 🌶️ scenes were 👌🏻. My favorite part is probably his nickname for her 🥹
The narrators Connor Crais & Mackenzie Cartwright were absolutely perfect!
July 2, 2024
This book was unexpected. This story kind of starts off as a common trope of city girl coming to a small town and meeting a small town guy (Dallas and Willow). But this story is unique and has some twists you won’t expect. Dallas is a former Marine now bar owner and Willow is the owner of a hugely successful marketing firm. She’s a workaholic and uptight but coming to Carrington Cove to learn of an inheritance changes all of that. I loved this couples banter it’s kind of enemies to friends to lovers. This author can write some great spice too 🪭. I highlighted so many quotes I think I will need to pick up a physical copy to annotate. I can’t wait to read about Dallas’s brother Penn and Astrid coming in the Fall!!
Updated 7/2/24
Had to change my rating to 5 stars after seeing how many highlights I have!! I’m hoping to put something fun together with them soon over on https://www.instagram.com/serafina3125/
Updated 7/2/24
Had to change my rating to 5 stars after seeing how many highlights I have!! I’m hoping to put something fun together with them soon over on https://www.instagram.com/serafina3125/
July 3, 2024
AUDIOBOOK
This was a such a great start to this standalone series!
-The small town vibe was so much fun!
-I loved the tiny details that really made each character unique
-The geese incidents were hilarious, and I loved how it inspired her nickname.
-The connection between them had me in my feels.
-The multi-millionaire heroine was a nice switch up, and I loved he was so proud of her for it!
I’m so excited for the next one!!
This was a such a great start to this standalone series!
-The small town vibe was so much fun!
-I loved the tiny details that really made each character unique
-The geese incidents were hilarious, and I loved how it inspired her nickname.
-The connection between them had me in my feels.
-The multi-millionaire heroine was a nice switch up, and I loved he was so proud of her for it!
I’m so excited for the next one!!
August 9, 2025
Enemies to lovers that i actually LOVED and enjoyed reading ❤️🩹
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