This is my first novel from this author, and I enjoyed it so much that I'm going to read the first in the series, and I suspect I'll read the third when it comes out. Whilst the series centres around three friends, each can be read as a standalone. It's an easy to read romance with a mostly light-hearted tone, but it has definitely earned it's mature rating for steamy scenes.
Somehow when reading the blurb I completely missed this was a second chance story, so I was expecting there to be a meet-cute and was surprised to discover that Carson and Monica were childhood friends. Not my usual flavour because there's usually some big event in their past that split them apart or prevented them from being together. That's not strictly speaking what happens here, and when it was all laid out and explained I found the reason justified, and actually pretty selfless, if misguided.
But this being a second chance story is one of the things I liked most about it because the author brought their relationship to life through it, which I thought was done particularly well. It's alternating first person perspectives, with occasional call-backs to their childhood. Through this I could feel the weight of their history and understand that, even though they've not spoken in 10 years, there's a strength to the foundation of their relationship, damaged as it is, a pull they have towards each other despite trying to resist. Heart winning out over head.
The two of them together were great. Monica and Carson have fantastic chemistry, their interactions (in and out of the bedroom) were believable, their conversations and actions felt organic and authentic which made them a pleasure to read. Every step of the way I wanted to read about where they'd been and where they were going next. Watching them realise how much the other has been affecting and guiding them over the past 10 years without even realising it was perfect.
If you're into second chance romance, childhood friends-to-lovers, contemporary romance, I would definitely recommend this. I don't think you'll be disappointed in giving this author a try.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.