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Heart's Cove Hotties #9
Dirty Little Midlife (Fake) Date
Single mom Mia has a problem. Her new landlord Des just raised her rent, and even in her dreams, Mia wouldn’t be able to afford it.
Not that she’d want to dream of Des. Ever.
To make matters worse, Des is big, grumpy, and apparently his heart is made of granite. He’s not willing to meet Mia in any sort of middle.
Suffice it to say, Mia’s forties aren’t off to a good start.
Until.
A blind date turns to disaster, because that funny, charming guy she’s been talking to?
Yeah. That’s Des. And he has a proposition for her…
One little fake date–a cheeky weekend away to go to his family reunion–and Mia’s rent troubles will disappear.
But as she gets to know Des, feelings start to grow. Could something fake turn real–or is true love just a fantasy?
Not that she’d want to dream of Des. Ever.
To make matters worse, Des is big, grumpy, and apparently his heart is made of granite. He’s not willing to meet Mia in any sort of middle.
Suffice it to say, Mia’s forties aren’t off to a good start.
Until.
A blind date turns to disaster, because that funny, charming guy she’s been talking to?
Yeah. That’s Des. And he has a proposition for her…
One little fake date–a cheeky weekend away to go to his family reunion–and Mia’s rent troubles will disappear.
But as she gets to know Des, feelings start to grow. Could something fake turn real–or is true love just a fantasy?
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 2, 2023
1077 people are currently reading
1721 people want to read
About the author
Lilian Monroe
85 books1,439 followersLilian Monroe lives in a luxurious jungle treehouse surrounded by lush greenery, with an army of scantily-clad men with rippling abdominal muscles ready to attend to her every need.
No, wait. That's not true.
Lilian Monroe spends her days dangling her feet into her pool, while a scantily-clad pool boy with rippling abdominal muscles feeds her chocolate-covered strawberries and massages her back.
Okay, okay. You got me. That's not true, either. Let's try again.
Lilian Monroe lives at home with her two children, three dogs, and twelve chickens. Her husband likes to work shirtless in the back yard. His sweaty, gleaming abdominal muscles ripple with every movement and he—
I'm sorry. I have to stop. Fine, I'll admit it. That one isn't true either.
How about this: Lilian Monroe loves thinking about men with rippling abdominal muscles serving her hand and foot, and she wants you to think about them too! She is an avid reader, writer, and lover of all things romance.
She loves everything from bad boys to billionaires. Her books are packed with sizzling-hot heat, action, suspense, and everything from second chances to single dads. She hates cheating and loves a good happily ever after (and rippling abs).
No, wait. That's not true.
Lilian Monroe spends her days dangling her feet into her pool, while a scantily-clad pool boy with rippling abdominal muscles feeds her chocolate-covered strawberries and massages her back.
Okay, okay. You got me. That's not true, either. Let's try again.
Lilian Monroe lives at home with her two children, three dogs, and twelve chickens. Her husband likes to work shirtless in the back yard. His sweaty, gleaming abdominal muscles ripple with every movement and he—
I'm sorry. I have to stop. Fine, I'll admit it. That one isn't true either.
How about this: Lilian Monroe loves thinking about men with rippling abdominal muscles serving her hand and foot, and she wants you to think about them too! She is an avid reader, writer, and lover of all things romance.
She loves everything from bad boys to billionaires. Her books are packed with sizzling-hot heat, action, suspense, and everything from second chances to single dads. She hates cheating and loves a good happily ever after (and rippling abs).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
January 11, 2023
Not hate but super close!!
I didn't hate Mia that's to strong a word but I seriously disliked her, she was annoying, indecisive, mean & judgmental! Her character repeated that she had a temper like a fire breathing dragon and it would be released easily. What she was, is a scared, hurt MFC who choose anger and fear to rule the whole book!!! THE WHOLE BOOK! Don't quote me but I'm pretty sure she was still pushing Des away and being mean to him up until the last chapter then all of a sudden she upset he hasn't asked her to merry him?!?! WTAF?!? The two stars given are for Des because he's gotta be a saint to want to be with Mia and his character was a decent guy and Bailey bc she's growing up strong, independent and not afraid to be herself despite her mother Mia as a role model! ✌
I didn't hate Mia that's to strong a word but I seriously disliked her, she was annoying, indecisive, mean & judgmental! Her character repeated that she had a temper like a fire breathing dragon and it would be released easily. What she was, is a scared, hurt MFC who choose anger and fear to rule the whole book!!! THE WHOLE BOOK! Don't quote me but I'm pretty sure she was still pushing Des away and being mean to him up until the last chapter then all of a sudden she upset he hasn't asked her to merry him?!?! WTAF?!? The two stars given are for Des because he's gotta be a saint to want to be with Mia and his character was a decent guy and Bailey bc she's growing up strong, independent and not afraid to be herself despite her mother Mia as a role model! ✌
January 23, 2023
It started off ok but along the way, it was obvious that Mia was making Desmond more of a grump and commitment-phobe than he was. Most of their interactions ended badly because she was just plain mean. And I guess there are all those reasons that she was hurt by her ex leaving her pregnant... and that's it! She put obstacles in her own way, couldn't decide on one thing because one moment she was all in and feeling it, and the next she was absolutely against anything with Des, he was bad and no way was she kissing him (again).
It dragged on, to be honest, with the same kind of result. Yes then no, yes then no.
And then there were the chapters in random people's POVs. I realize this is a part of a series, sort of, but also a standalone, yes? Mia and Des start and end their HEA in this book. The other people from previous books having their own chapters was throwing me out of the story. It's completely ok when there are other characters introduced as the story goes, from the main heroes' points of view (here Mia and Des). But here, there are 5 chapters and each one is from some other person, all women that have already had their stories written. It made completely no sense to me to suddenly, every few chapters, switch the POV to a random character who plays a little role in this story.
The end was also sudden, it came off as that. There was a big fight after things seemed to have worked out and then in a whirl of the situation after situation, all was well, for good now. And the epilogue itself was chaotic and the ending paragraph - like it was supposed to be followed by real ending words. It's my pet peeve to leave a book with a bad epilogue and this was pretty bad.
It dragged on, to be honest, with the same kind of result. Yes then no, yes then no.
And then there were the chapters in random people's POVs. I realize this is a part of a series, sort of, but also a standalone, yes? Mia and Des start and end their HEA in this book. The other people from previous books having their own chapters was throwing me out of the story. It's completely ok when there are other characters introduced as the story goes, from the main heroes' points of view (here Mia and Des). But here, there are 5 chapters and each one is from some other person, all women that have already had their stories written. It made completely no sense to me to suddenly, every few chapters, switch the POV to a random character who plays a little role in this story.
The end was also sudden, it came off as that. There was a big fight after things seemed to have worked out and then in a whirl of the situation after situation, all was well, for good now. And the epilogue itself was chaotic and the ending paragraph - like it was supposed to be followed by real ending words. It's my pet peeve to leave a book with a bad epilogue and this was pretty bad.
January 2, 2023
Five stars aren´t enough to award this book. Maybe a sky full of stars has made more sense to me. Mia is a single mom that has been working so hard to keep afloat when life is always throwing curve balls. She is struggling to raise her daughter and at the same time to bear her financials, when out of blue, Des happens. At first sight, Des is grumpy, arrogant, and bossy (although handsome), but behind his facade, he hides weakness and vulnerabilities and a huge feeling of rejection. When their lives collide, there was a blast of emotions. A complicated story. But love always wins. Anyway, they are gonna deal with their own issues and at the end ... oh you must read it and figure it out -). I am a huge fan of Lilian Monroe and this book touched my heart. I can´t live without Heart´s Cove series anymore. A must-read. An amazing story. I received an advance copy and this is my honest review. One final tip - each book is better than the previous one.
November 20, 2023
There is nothing much to say but an OK read. Has a good plot and is easy to read. And it is in dual POV.
January 6, 2023
There was so much I liked about this one! I haven’t read any of the others in the series and I mostly felt like I knew what was going on. However, I just wasn’t a fan of the chapters where we had other characters pov, I scanned through those as fast as possible.
I loved the “dragon” in Mia, I relate very much to a quick to react temper and it made me smile every time I read it. Overall it was good not great and I could have used a bit more steam. Good palate cleanser after all that Christmas smut I read though 😂
I loved the “dragon” in Mia, I relate very much to a quick to react temper and it made me smile every time I read it. Overall it was good not great and I could have used a bit more steam. Good palate cleanser after all that Christmas smut I read though 😂
January 16, 2023
super cute
Love this book. Kind of started in the middle of a series but it was easy to read it as a stand alone! 10/10 would recommend. Cute little small town love really speaks to my soul 💙
Love this book. Kind of started in the middle of a series but it was easy to read it as a stand alone! 10/10 would recommend. Cute little small town love really speaks to my soul 💙
January 12, 2023
Wth. This book was so bad and not at all what I expected their story to be like.
Mia is soooo damn mean to Des. It is horrible how ugly she gets. He tries. She rants and raves like a lunatic. She seriously gives off major “mental health issues needing attention”the entire book.
I have adored this series so much and was looking forward to their story. But Mia is awful.
Poor Des. I cannot believe how badly he is treated. The entire book.
You cannot write a book about romance and have the fmc be a raging bitch until the last chapter.
Mia is soooo damn mean to Des. It is horrible how ugly she gets. He tries. She rants and raves like a lunatic. She seriously gives off major “mental health issues needing attention”the entire book.
I have adored this series so much and was looking forward to their story. But Mia is awful.
Poor Des. I cannot believe how badly he is treated. The entire book.
You cannot write a book about romance and have the fmc be a raging bitch until the last chapter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2023
DNF AT 57%. The story is super stretched for no reason. Mia is a major A** hole, she is borderline abusive with the way she treats Des. If the roles were reversed, that treatment wouldn't have flown, she is so mean and blames her temper on "the dragon " how is that any different than an abusive person blaming their abuse on having a short temper or anything else ?!!
She makes the most ridiculous assumptions, then bases her entire action/ reaction on it. How is she 40 years old and so damn childish.????
Literally couldn't force myself to endure her bull crap any longer.
She makes the most ridiculous assumptions, then bases her entire action/ reaction on it. How is she 40 years old and so damn childish.????
Literally couldn't force myself to endure her bull crap any longer.
September 23, 2023
2.5 stars. I was not a huge fan of Mia’s character and felt so bad for Des, so I think that’s why I was struggling with the book. Her hang-ups and attitude were just a little too over the top and dragged on. Also didn’t really enjoy the other series character chapters when there could have been more development to Des and Mia’s story.
February 9, 2023
couldn’t even enjoy this book with how unnecessarily rude the h was to the H throughout the whole book. I actually felt bad for the poor guy
January 4, 2023
a bit frustrating & injustice
I’ve been reading this entire series and some of the books I love & some are more in the okay category. One of the techniques this author uses is to include chapters, or small vignettes, of characters from previous books. I enjoy this since I’ve read the entire series. It’s a unique & fun approach and flows well even if you haven’t read the previous books. This book started strong and has a fun, captivating beginning. Both the hero & heroine have a lot of baggage & abandonment issues. My heart especially broke for Des. One of the things I didn’t care for is each of the main character’s negative thinking. It just went on & on & as the reader, I wanted to scream to tell them just to speak their insecurities & thoughts out loud. Some of that is okay & even compelling as a way of developing the characters, but it became irritating & frustrating. Secondly, I really hated that Des had no resolution with his family. It was a major part of the story arc & yet the last we hear, Des is having a meal with one brother he claims not to be close to while the other brother storms in & gets to seem victorious while belittling him. There’s no resolution and no justice. His “family” treated him so badly and he never even got to stand up to them or share his feelings or what their abuse/neglect had done to him. Again, it was this major importance to the development of his character & then, nothing. It just was not addressed, other than, in his mind, he found family & home elsewhere. In this area, he held so much sadness & insecurity, the lack of any kind of confrontation or resolution made him appear weak & yet he’s also portrayed as strong at times. The two personalities didn’t mesh, in my opinion. If he had stood up to any of his family, at any point, displaying his inner strength, I think it would have helped. Finally, I did not like how easily the daughter accepted the ex. I admired Mia’s strength and perspective about the necessity of allowing some kind of connection there, but again, I felt frustrated over the injustice of that situation. I would have liked to see Mia set more boundaries there & not be so weak with him when she is such a fighter. I was thankful for how the daughter saved a special honor for Des. In conclusion, I liked the relationship the mc’s had & was glad they found each other. The first maybe 2/3 of the book were really good (a 5 star start) but the last 1/3 was both irritating and frustrating due to repetitive insecure thoughts (a simple convo would have resolved so much & I know that was the angst of the story line, but another one would have been less frustrating) and way too much unresolved injustice for both main characters.
I’ve been reading this entire series and some of the books I love & some are more in the okay category. One of the techniques this author uses is to include chapters, or small vignettes, of characters from previous books. I enjoy this since I’ve read the entire series. It’s a unique & fun approach and flows well even if you haven’t read the previous books. This book started strong and has a fun, captivating beginning. Both the hero & heroine have a lot of baggage & abandonment issues. My heart especially broke for Des. One of the things I didn’t care for is each of the main character’s negative thinking. It just went on & on & as the reader, I wanted to scream to tell them just to speak their insecurities & thoughts out loud. Some of that is okay & even compelling as a way of developing the characters, but it became irritating & frustrating. Secondly, I really hated that Des had no resolution with his family. It was a major part of the story arc & yet the last we hear, Des is having a meal with one brother he claims not to be close to while the other brother storms in & gets to seem victorious while belittling him. There’s no resolution and no justice. His “family” treated him so badly and he never even got to stand up to them or share his feelings or what their abuse/neglect had done to him. Again, it was this major importance to the development of his character & then, nothing. It just was not addressed, other than, in his mind, he found family & home elsewhere. In this area, he held so much sadness & insecurity, the lack of any kind of confrontation or resolution made him appear weak & yet he’s also portrayed as strong at times. The two personalities didn’t mesh, in my opinion. If he had stood up to any of his family, at any point, displaying his inner strength, I think it would have helped. Finally, I did not like how easily the daughter accepted the ex. I admired Mia’s strength and perspective about the necessity of allowing some kind of connection there, but again, I felt frustrated over the injustice of that situation. I would have liked to see Mia set more boundaries there & not be so weak with him when she is such a fighter. I was thankful for how the daughter saved a special honor for Des. In conclusion, I liked the relationship the mc’s had & was glad they found each other. The first maybe 2/3 of the book were really good (a 5 star start) but the last 1/3 was both irritating and frustrating due to repetitive insecure thoughts (a simple convo would have resolved so much & I know that was the angst of the story line, but another one would have been less frustrating) and way too much unresolved injustice for both main characters.
November 23, 2023
3.5 Stars
Dirty Little Midlife (Fake) Date
Book #9
Des and Mia
Couple in their 40’s, enemies to lovers, landlord and tenant
The last book in the series. And like with the earlier books, I loved parts, and struggled with other parts.
Mia. Single mom to nine year old daughter, Bailey. Runs her own barber shop. Struggling financially.
Des (Desmond). Has come to Hearts Cove to clean up his grandparents rental properties. He comes off as grumpy, and uncaring.
Des and Mia meet when he storms into her shop and unceremoniously doubles the rent on her shop. No hello, no how are you, no names exchanged, just pay this or I’ll evict you. Needless to say, this does not sit well with Mia. She’s struggling as it is to pay the little she does every month. No matter how hot she thinks Des is, he has become enemy number one.
Both Des and Mia have issues with being abandoned, left behind. And they both deal with it in similar ways. Des wraps himself in a protective shield, Mia unleashes her temper. Both hiding.
Des does not win any awards for his first impressions. He has a hard time opening up and communicating. But he does do his best to understand Mia’s problems. He bends over backwards to help her in a lot of ways. He is very sweet with Bailey.
I struggled with Mia. She was a great mom, Bailey was always her first thought and her priority. But she wore that temper like a suit of armor. She had a short fuse and let her mouth make her decisions. For a forty year old woman, she was immature, flighty, and so negative.
Bailey was the best character in the book. She was a strong, independent nine year old. She knew who she was and was not ashamed of it.
I loved seeing all of the past couples, and most of the secondary characters.
There were a few things that frustrated me. The constant, negativity. The negative internal monologues. The whole issue with Des’ family. It’s made out to be a huge thing, but there’s really no resolution with them, especially his brother. The way Mia dealt with her ex. I get her reasoning, but I would have put my foot down and set some serious boundaries.
The ending felt rushed. Drama just to bring them back together.
Overall not a bad book.
It’s a bit of a slow burn, they do get to a happy ending. A nice epilogue. Multiple points of view.
Dirty Little Midlife (Fake) Date
Book #9
Des and Mia
Couple in their 40’s, enemies to lovers, landlord and tenant
The last book in the series. And like with the earlier books, I loved parts, and struggled with other parts.
Mia. Single mom to nine year old daughter, Bailey. Runs her own barber shop. Struggling financially.
Des (Desmond). Has come to Hearts Cove to clean up his grandparents rental properties. He comes off as grumpy, and uncaring.
Des and Mia meet when he storms into her shop and unceremoniously doubles the rent on her shop. No hello, no how are you, no names exchanged, just pay this or I’ll evict you. Needless to say, this does not sit well with Mia. She’s struggling as it is to pay the little she does every month. No matter how hot she thinks Des is, he has become enemy number one.
Both Des and Mia have issues with being abandoned, left behind. And they both deal with it in similar ways. Des wraps himself in a protective shield, Mia unleashes her temper. Both hiding.
Des does not win any awards for his first impressions. He has a hard time opening up and communicating. But he does do his best to understand Mia’s problems. He bends over backwards to help her in a lot of ways. He is very sweet with Bailey.
I struggled with Mia. She was a great mom, Bailey was always her first thought and her priority. But she wore that temper like a suit of armor. She had a short fuse and let her mouth make her decisions. For a forty year old woman, she was immature, flighty, and so negative.
Bailey was the best character in the book. She was a strong, independent nine year old. She knew who she was and was not ashamed of it.
I loved seeing all of the past couples, and most of the secondary characters.
There were a few things that frustrated me. The constant, negativity. The negative internal monologues. The whole issue with Des’ family. It’s made out to be a huge thing, but there’s really no resolution with them, especially his brother. The way Mia dealt with her ex. I get her reasoning, but I would have put my foot down and set some serious boundaries.
The ending felt rushed. Drama just to bring them back together.
Overall not a bad book.
It’s a bit of a slow burn, they do get to a happy ending. A nice epilogue. Multiple points of view.
October 8, 2023
Mia & Des
Was für eine turbulente Geschichte von Mia und Des mit einem leichten Schreibstil und wechselnder Erzählperspektive beider Protagonisten.
Die Idee für die Storyline fand ich sehr gut und interessant. Da es mein erstes Buch von dieser Autorin ist, bin ich vollkommen offen an alles rangegangen und wurde überrascht. Durch den Klappentext wusste ich zwar das Mia um die 40 Jahre alt ist, demzufolge nahm ich an das Des genauso im dem Alter ist aber das such alle Freundinnen von Mia ebenfalls alle so alt sind hat mich positiv überrascht und ich fand es sehr gut. Lustig war dad auch einige Freundinnen Kapitel in dem Buch hatten wenn auch eher kurze und man so einen anderen Blickwinkel von Mia oder Des bekommen hat, jedoch auch ein kleinen Einblick in deren Geschichten. Ich fand die Mädels einfach klasse, wie sich sich umeinamder kümmern, loyal sind und sich manchmal eher wie Teenager verhalten.
Auch die Storyline rund um Mia und Des, die uns tiefe Einblicke in ihre jeweilige Vergangenheit gegeben hat fand ich gut. So konnte ich verstehen warum Mia, anfangs eher einen zickigen Eindruck bei mir hinterlassen hat, swr sich nach weiterem Lesen jedoch schnell geändert hat. Sie ist sehr temperamentvoll und ist trotz allem eine super Mom. Ihrer Tochter Bailey habe ich einfach geliebt und regelrecht gefeiert. Sie war meine liebster Charaktere.
Des hat anfänglich den Eindruck eines kalten und arroganten Mannes gemacht doch auch dieser Eindruck wurde schnell weggewischt. Nachdem man weitere Einblicke aus der Vergangenheit bekommen hat, habe ich vomltestes Verständnis für seine unbeholfene Art die manchmal egoistisch und kindisch wirkt und man sieht seine fürsorgliche, beschützerische Art.
Trotz alldem konnten mich Mia und Des nicht ganz überzeugen und mir fehlte einfach das zwischenmenschliche bei ihnen, vorallem aber das emotionale, abgesehen von ihrer gegenseitigen Ängsten.
Was für eine turbulente Geschichte von Mia und Des mit einem leichten Schreibstil und wechselnder Erzählperspektive beider Protagonisten.
Die Idee für die Storyline fand ich sehr gut und interessant. Da es mein erstes Buch von dieser Autorin ist, bin ich vollkommen offen an alles rangegangen und wurde überrascht. Durch den Klappentext wusste ich zwar das Mia um die 40 Jahre alt ist, demzufolge nahm ich an das Des genauso im dem Alter ist aber das such alle Freundinnen von Mia ebenfalls alle so alt sind hat mich positiv überrascht und ich fand es sehr gut. Lustig war dad auch einige Freundinnen Kapitel in dem Buch hatten wenn auch eher kurze und man so einen anderen Blickwinkel von Mia oder Des bekommen hat, jedoch auch ein kleinen Einblick in deren Geschichten. Ich fand die Mädels einfach klasse, wie sich sich umeinamder kümmern, loyal sind und sich manchmal eher wie Teenager verhalten.
Auch die Storyline rund um Mia und Des, die uns tiefe Einblicke in ihre jeweilige Vergangenheit gegeben hat fand ich gut. So konnte ich verstehen warum Mia, anfangs eher einen zickigen Eindruck bei mir hinterlassen hat, swr sich nach weiterem Lesen jedoch schnell geändert hat. Sie ist sehr temperamentvoll und ist trotz allem eine super Mom. Ihrer Tochter Bailey habe ich einfach geliebt und regelrecht gefeiert. Sie war meine liebster Charaktere.
Des hat anfänglich den Eindruck eines kalten und arroganten Mannes gemacht doch auch dieser Eindruck wurde schnell weggewischt. Nachdem man weitere Einblicke aus der Vergangenheit bekommen hat, habe ich vomltestes Verständnis für seine unbeholfene Art die manchmal egoistisch und kindisch wirkt und man sieht seine fürsorgliche, beschützerische Art.
Trotz alldem konnten mich Mia und Des nicht ganz überzeugen und mir fehlte einfach das zwischenmenschliche bei ihnen, vorallem aber das emotionale, abgesehen von ihrer gegenseitigen Ängsten.
December 15, 2022
We were teased about Mia and Des’s story in the last book so I was eager to read DIRTY LITTLE MIDLIFE (FAKE) DATE. As far as a holiday romance, it starts around Hallowe’en and ends around New Years’s Day with the fake date being for Des’s family Thanksgiving reunion. While this can be read as a standalone, when we first meet Des in a previous book, he’s does not come off as very likable. He’s surly, he ruffles feathers and he keeps to himself,
Mia has her hands full raising her daughter, making ends meet and juggling unexpected relationship issues. She’s pretty grumpy to deal with and decided early on that she doesn’t like Des starting with him raising her rent a huge amount.
It’s a story that has so much going on, but I didn’t even notice because as a reader, you get so invested in it. The whole premise for the fake date is so funny. What we learn about Des’s upbringing is sad. Mix in a long absent ex-husband, the entire town of Heart’s Cove and one misunderstanding after another it’s going to be a book you will enjoy.
The romance is top notch. The steamy parts are just enough to be hot but not overwhelm. It looks like there is also a tease for the next story, but taking place in Colorado, not Heart’s Cove.
I received an advance copy of the book from the author and this is my voluntary review.
Mia has her hands full raising her daughter, making ends meet and juggling unexpected relationship issues. She’s pretty grumpy to deal with and decided early on that she doesn’t like Des starting with him raising her rent a huge amount.
It’s a story that has so much going on, but I didn’t even notice because as a reader, you get so invested in it. The whole premise for the fake date is so funny. What we learn about Des’s upbringing is sad. Mix in a long absent ex-husband, the entire town of Heart’s Cove and one misunderstanding after another it’s going to be a book you will enjoy.
The romance is top notch. The steamy parts are just enough to be hot but not overwhelm. It looks like there is also a tease for the next story, but taking place in Colorado, not Heart’s Cove.
I received an advance copy of the book from the author and this is my voluntary review.
August 30, 2025
#BookReview - Dirty Little Midlife (Fake) Date by Lilian Monroe
*
POV:
Your landlord’s grandson comes along & increases your rent—but you’re a single mom and this puts you in a realllyyyy tough spot. Obviously, he’s Satan. But wait … he’s so, so very hot. And actually really sweet … is he … maybe … not as evil as you’d thought?
*
After getting a glimpse at both of the leads for this book, I obvi had to move straight into this book. I love this series and everyone involved.
Written in alternating, first-person POV.
First tense.
Single mom.
Small town vibes / antics.
Landlord / tenant relationship.
Sizzling chemistry from the very start.
Enemies-to-lovers vibes.
Holiday vibes, opens leading up to Thanksgiving.
Misunderstandings and assumptions.
Tit for tat.
Fake dating.
Blind / online dating.
Supportive families on both sides.
Personal growth.
Found family.
Overall:
I laughed through quite a bit of this, very well done, tackling real-life issues, but also inserting lots of humor. Excellent, as the rest of this series.
4 stars.
🎧 Audio:
Fantastic production—very professional, smooth sound, with great narration. 5 stars.
#laterinliferomance #secondchanceromance #singlemomstrong #smalltownromance #RomCom #LilianMonroe #bookreviews #pelicanbookrecs
*
POV:
Your landlord’s grandson comes along & increases your rent—but you’re a single mom and this puts you in a realllyyyy tough spot. Obviously, he’s Satan. But wait … he’s so, so very hot. And actually really sweet … is he … maybe … not as evil as you’d thought?
*
After getting a glimpse at both of the leads for this book, I obvi had to move straight into this book. I love this series and everyone involved.
Written in alternating, first-person POV.
First tense.
Single mom.
Small town vibes / antics.
Landlord / tenant relationship.
Sizzling chemistry from the very start.
Enemies-to-lovers vibes.
Holiday vibes, opens leading up to Thanksgiving.
Misunderstandings and assumptions.
Tit for tat.
Fake dating.
Blind / online dating.
Supportive families on both sides.
Personal growth.
Found family.
Overall:
I laughed through quite a bit of this, very well done, tackling real-life issues, but also inserting lots of humor. Excellent, as the rest of this series.
4 stars.
🎧 Audio:
Fantastic production—very professional, smooth sound, with great narration. 5 stars.
#laterinliferomance #secondchanceromance #singlemomstrong #smalltownromance #RomCom #LilianMonroe #bookreviews #pelicanbookrecs
January 12, 2023
I think I am going to cry...😢
Lilian Monroe, your Heart's Cove series has been one experience I am so grateful for...
For the laughter, the tears from the laughter, the tummy aches from laughing so hard, and not to forget, the soda chokes and tablets jumping out of my hands from the laughter Heart's Cove provided!
Yes, I believe I am about to cry, these crazed ladies and their hotties made my days, weeks, and years, since this series began!
One quickly learned to expect the unexpected, and the gossip and hysteria is always better on the other side!
Des and Mia, both left out. Or, simply they just didn't fit in, then they met one another. Per usual, everyone (coffee club ladies first and foremost) knows what's happening and crazily all while laughing of course, push these two together.
Let the games begin!
I loved this book as the ending! Like Fallon and Jen, Des and Mia are just two people trying to make it. It made it perfect!
But now, the crying, while I cannot wait for Piper's story, I feel like I am loosing nine crazy women and all that accompanies them. I feel like Hearts Cove is leaving, yet such a part of my heart!
Thank you for each and every novel in this series, so many days you brought humor and complete joy to me with your words!
Loved!
Karen
Lilian Monroe, your Heart's Cove series has been one experience I am so grateful for...
For the laughter, the tears from the laughter, the tummy aches from laughing so hard, and not to forget, the soda chokes and tablets jumping out of my hands from the laughter Heart's Cove provided!
Yes, I believe I am about to cry, these crazed ladies and their hotties made my days, weeks, and years, since this series began!
One quickly learned to expect the unexpected, and the gossip and hysteria is always better on the other side!
Des and Mia, both left out. Or, simply they just didn't fit in, then they met one another. Per usual, everyone (coffee club ladies first and foremost) knows what's happening and crazily all while laughing of course, push these two together.
Let the games begin!
I loved this book as the ending! Like Fallon and Jen, Des and Mia are just two people trying to make it. It made it perfect!
But now, the crying, while I cannot wait for Piper's story, I feel like I am loosing nine crazy women and all that accompanies them. I feel like Hearts Cove is leaving, yet such a part of my heart!
Thank you for each and every novel in this series, so many days you brought humor and complete joy to me with your words!
Loved!
Karen
January 29, 2023
I have to agree with some of the lowered star reviews. Mia was just too mean. I understand her feelings of abandonment from her a-hole ex-hubby but how many times does she have to give that attitude to the sweet and swoon-worthy Desmond, yet he was also such a doormat and kept taking that from her. I understand his self-esteem is low from all the heartbreak he had to endure since his childhood, and maybe it’s therapy he really needs from all the trauma and no sense of belonging. I just felt awful for him. I mean, did no one talk about how awful Mia was for screaming at his grandmother and almost giving her a heart attack! And Desmond wasn’t upset about it! Ugh! There wasn’t any redeeming quality or settling of the a-hole, Vince or any kind of reconciliation with Desmond and Sebastian now that Desmond work for Grant. Isn’t he working with Sebastian too? I feel like the this story isn’t quite done. I’m sure there’s a story about Piper and Rhett (though it can’t be under this series since they aren’t in Heart’s Cove bug in Lover’s Peak, CO. Perhaps that’s a new series cuz this is going on forever). I can’t seem to like this story if for only Desmond’s sweet devotion and Bailey, the coolest kid ever.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2023
Read It In A Day!
I have loved the Heart’s Cove Series, having blazed through them back-to-back a few months ago. I was eagerly awaiting today’s release of DLM Fake Date and it did not disappoint. I’ve loved all the couples in this little town, and each heroine and hero has spoken to me in some form in each book. Lilian Monroe has a gift in making her characters so relatable and honest, raw at times, while still swoony and funny and charming. However, Mia and Des have hit all my emotional nails on their heads. I don’t honestly remember highlighting in any previous kindle books but this book had me resonating with several passages. Mia’s desire to be a great mom and give her daughter the world, while battling the challenges of raising a child alone is something I personally connected with. I’m grateful Monroe’s characters are so real-life. Although the steaminess isn’t as detailed in this book as it has been in others, the intensity of the emotional development between the two leads more than makes up for it. This book, and this series, will definitely be one that I’ll reread!
I have loved the Heart’s Cove Series, having blazed through them back-to-back a few months ago. I was eagerly awaiting today’s release of DLM Fake Date and it did not disappoint. I’ve loved all the couples in this little town, and each heroine and hero has spoken to me in some form in each book. Lilian Monroe has a gift in making her characters so relatable and honest, raw at times, while still swoony and funny and charming. However, Mia and Des have hit all my emotional nails on their heads. I don’t honestly remember highlighting in any previous kindle books but this book had me resonating with several passages. Mia’s desire to be a great mom and give her daughter the world, while battling the challenges of raising a child alone is something I personally connected with. I’m grateful Monroe’s characters are so real-life. Although the steaminess isn’t as detailed in this book as it has been in others, the intensity of the emotional development between the two leads more than makes up for it. This book, and this series, will definitely be one that I’ll reread!
January 11, 2023
sweet, heartwarming & hot
Mia is a hardworking, struggling, single mom and Des is the big bad landlord who raises her rent. He is attracted to her from first sight and she can’t stand him! (well mostly). They are thrown together through circumstances and he keeps messing up because he doesn’t know how to get her to like him. He needs to go to a family event and comes with the brilliant idea of asking her to be his (fake) date in exchange for helping her. They have both went through some hard times emotionally. Him during his childhood and her at the end of her marriage and it has made them both quite closed off. On the trip things really heat up between them and I loved how they slowly opened up to each other. Mia is a strong, determined, loving and a little bit lonely. Des is confident, strong, caring and just looking for somewhere he can belong. I love that he found it with Mia and her daughter Bailey. I liked how the addition of Bailey’s dad was handled and as usual I loved how all the previous characters from the series were involved and had a voice (I want to move to Heart’s Cove).
Mia is a hardworking, struggling, single mom and Des is the big bad landlord who raises her rent. He is attracted to her from first sight and she can’t stand him! (well mostly). They are thrown together through circumstances and he keeps messing up because he doesn’t know how to get her to like him. He needs to go to a family event and comes with the brilliant idea of asking her to be his (fake) date in exchange for helping her. They have both went through some hard times emotionally. Him during his childhood and her at the end of her marriage and it has made them both quite closed off. On the trip things really heat up between them and I loved how they slowly opened up to each other. Mia is a strong, determined, loving and a little bit lonely. Des is confident, strong, caring and just looking for somewhere he can belong. I love that he found it with Mia and her daughter Bailey. I liked how the addition of Bailey’s dad was handled and as usual I loved how all the previous characters from the series were involved and had a voice (I want to move to Heart’s Cove).
June 28, 2024
3.5 Stars!
Mia is a single mom who is struggling financially to raise her daughter Bailey. She has her own business which is a barber shop and they Iive in the apartment above it. Her new landlord not only raised the rent on the shop but also her apartment, which by the way, is falling apart.
Des has taken over for his aging grandparents and is managing several of their rental properties since the person who was doing it was stealing from them. He is coming across as a grumpy heartless bastard but that couldn’t be further from the truth. He’s just trying to help the only people that really showed him love after he was left alone in the world.
I didn’t hate Mia, part of me understood why she was mad, defensive, and untrusting but Des repeatedly showed that he cared and that he was trying to do the right thing even if he was having to raise the rent closer to market value. Mia was just too stubborn for me but yet when it came to her ex-husband she didn’t seem to be as independent and aggressive. This was definitely not my favorite in the series even though I REALLY liked Des!!
Mia is a single mom who is struggling financially to raise her daughter Bailey. She has her own business which is a barber shop and they Iive in the apartment above it. Her new landlord not only raised the rent on the shop but also her apartment, which by the way, is falling apart.
Des has taken over for his aging grandparents and is managing several of their rental properties since the person who was doing it was stealing from them. He is coming across as a grumpy heartless bastard but that couldn’t be further from the truth. He’s just trying to help the only people that really showed him love after he was left alone in the world.
I didn’t hate Mia, part of me understood why she was mad, defensive, and untrusting but Des repeatedly showed that he cared and that he was trying to do the right thing even if he was having to raise the rent closer to market value. Mia was just too stubborn for me but yet when it came to her ex-husband she didn’t seem to be as independent and aggressive. This was definitely not my favorite in the series even though I REALLY liked Des!!
January 6, 2023
As Always…
As always, Lillian Monroe does not disappoint!
I’m beginning to believe I have an unhealthy attachment to the town and characters of Heart’s Cove. Lilian has created this crazy loyal kinship I have with the women in this town that love so deeply.
I feel, almost sad at the thought that there might not be anymore stories and crazy antics coming from this quirky Northern California coastal town. 9 Fantabulous books in this series! How much more can we beg from Lilian?!
I am completely, utterly invested.
Thankfully she leaves a hint for the next series at the end of the book.
This book had a plot twist I didn’t see coming (and it wasn’t the ex, Colin). To say I had preconceived ideas of these characters from their appearance in book 8, would be an understatement. This is a testament to the writing prowess and talent Ms. Monroe possesses. What can I say? You’ll have to read and enjoy it for yourself…and enjoy you will.
As always, Lillian Monroe does not disappoint!
I’m beginning to believe I have an unhealthy attachment to the town and characters of Heart’s Cove. Lilian has created this crazy loyal kinship I have with the women in this town that love so deeply.
I feel, almost sad at the thought that there might not be anymore stories and crazy antics coming from this quirky Northern California coastal town. 9 Fantabulous books in this series! How much more can we beg from Lilian?!
I am completely, utterly invested.
Thankfully she leaves a hint for the next series at the end of the book.
This book had a plot twist I didn’t see coming (and it wasn’t the ex, Colin). To say I had preconceived ideas of these characters from their appearance in book 8, would be an understatement. This is a testament to the writing prowess and talent Ms. Monroe possesses. What can I say? You’ll have to read and enjoy it for yourself…and enjoy you will.
January 14, 2023
Lovely parts
Overall the relationship between Mia and Des is messed up. I love this author and how she brings characters to life, but I just couldn't relate to the pushing and pulling between these two. There are details that seem unnecessary, like that they "meet" over a dating app and he realizes it's her. Then they never talk about those things again after she feels betrayed that he sets up a date and doesn't tell her it's him for over a week. Missed opportunity for a You've Got Mail moment. Then it becomes like Taming of the Shrew, but not as good. And somehow there's a Thanksgiving three-legged race they don't even practice for so surprisingly, they lose.
The best moments are when the ladies from town (Simone, Fiona, Candice, etc) snd the parents come in for comic relief and a shock of reality --stop getting in your head Mia and just admit you like him already!
Definitely not my favorite of the series, but a must-read if you have read all the others.
Overall the relationship between Mia and Des is messed up. I love this author and how she brings characters to life, but I just couldn't relate to the pushing and pulling between these two. There are details that seem unnecessary, like that they "meet" over a dating app and he realizes it's her. Then they never talk about those things again after she feels betrayed that he sets up a date and doesn't tell her it's him for over a week. Missed opportunity for a You've Got Mail moment. Then it becomes like Taming of the Shrew, but not as good. And somehow there's a Thanksgiving three-legged race they don't even practice for so surprisingly, they lose.
The best moments are when the ladies from town (Simone, Fiona, Candice, etc) snd the parents come in for comic relief and a shock of reality --stop getting in your head Mia and just admit you like him already!
Definitely not my favorite of the series, but a must-read if you have read all the others.
December 8, 2024
Mia being a single mom since the moment she found out she was pregnant her ex-husband had always said he didn’t want children and she thought she was the same until she did fall pregnant. They separated and parted ways and since then it’s just been her and her daughter.
9 years later She’s barely keeping her head above water and in walks the landlord’s grandson who’s putting up the rent and also is a massive a hole, that’s not even the worst of it her ex has now returned, wanting to spend time with his daughter
For some breathing space from her ex she ends up in a big dating situation with the a-hole and she goes to Thanksgiving at his family‘s house and she gets three months free rent, but things taken unexpected turn and she realize that a hole isn’t as bad as she thought he was
I was in two mines with to give this book for 3.75 or a 4 I did feel. It was really rushed in the last seven pages so to speak it just ended.
9 years later She’s barely keeping her head above water and in walks the landlord’s grandson who’s putting up the rent and also is a massive a hole, that’s not even the worst of it her ex has now returned, wanting to spend time with his daughter
For some breathing space from her ex she ends up in a big dating situation with the a-hole and she goes to Thanksgiving at his family‘s house and she gets three months free rent, but things taken unexpected turn and she realize that a hole isn’t as bad as she thought he was
I was in two mines with to give this book for 3.75 or a 4 I did feel. It was really rushed in the last seven pages so to speak it just ended.
January 31, 2025
Small town
Older FMC/Older MMC
temperful FMC
enemies to lovers?
Des is in town to take care of his grandparents. This includes helping them recover from an unscrupulous property manager who's been mismanaging their interests.
Mia rents an apartment nd aa barbershop from two adorable old people in town.
When Des raises the rent on Mia, sparks fly.
Mia's a hothead. She's a bit annoying. Des is... I don't know. Hot and broody? Closed off? A bit of a prick? The characters in this one were not really all that likeable for a third of the book, but the plot was handled better than the last two in the series. So... it all worked out. The softening of their characters as they begin to yield to each other was obvious and really went a long way to making this one a good read.
There's a surprise Thanksgiving trip that includes all the girls as well. That went a long way to making this one re-readable.
Future Stacey -- a cute read.
Older FMC/Older MMC
temperful FMC
enemies to lovers?
Des is in town to take care of his grandparents. This includes helping them recover from an unscrupulous property manager who's been mismanaging their interests.
Mia rents an apartment nd aa barbershop from two adorable old people in town.
When Des raises the rent on Mia, sparks fly.
Mia's a hothead. She's a bit annoying. Des is... I don't know. Hot and broody? Closed off? A bit of a prick? The characters in this one were not really all that likeable for a third of the book, but the plot was handled better than the last two in the series. So... it all worked out. The softening of their characters as they begin to yield to each other was obvious and really went a long way to making this one a good read.
There's a surprise Thanksgiving trip that includes all the girls as well. That went a long way to making this one re-readable.
Future Stacey -- a cute read.
January 1, 2023
Mia and Des are my favorite Heartbreak Cove couples. With each book, Lilian Monroe steps up her games, weaving a heartfelt beautiful tribute to love. Des and Mia’s story is filled with laughter, lust and longing. Des has always wanted to fit into his family and he finally sees a chance at doing just that when he convinces his tenant and secret crush to attend a weekend away with his family. Hurt by the man she loved when he willingly walked away from her and their daughter, Mia is beyond hesitant to get involved with anyone, especially the arrogant man who’s just raised her rent. Struggling to keep her head above water, Mia agrees to fake dating Des to fool his family. But who really will fall for their lie? Will it really be a lie if they really do develop feelings for each other. And then how does Mia’s daughter and ex fit into it all? Read it. I promise you’ll love it too.
February 20, 2023
My main problem with this book was Mia. She doubted everything. That the women were really her friends, that Des liked her. Her own 9 year old told her Des like Hearts Cove better and would stay and she still didn’t believe it. It was 87% of the book before she finally got her head out of her ass.
I liked Des, I felt bad for him. Always feeling like an outsider even in his own family. All he wanted was to love Mia and Bailey and she just pushed him away again and again. Honestly he could have done better.
Anyway they do get together but the end feels really rushed. I would have enjoyed more of them together bu they get together then epilogue. If this is the last book then it wasn’t the best to end it on
I have enjoyed most of these book and am a little sad that they are over but there not books I would read twice
I liked Des, I felt bad for him. Always feeling like an outsider even in his own family. All he wanted was to love Mia and Bailey and she just pushed him away again and again. Honestly he could have done better.
Anyway they do get together but the end feels really rushed. I would have enjoyed more of them together bu they get together then epilogue. If this is the last book then it wasn’t the best to end it on
I have enjoyed most of these book and am a little sad that they are over but there not books I would read twice
December 15, 2022
I really enjoyed this one!
This series is addictive and engaging. I am glad that I had previously read all the characters mentioned in this story, because that made the read so much better. Even though, going into this, I was not a fan of Des.
I am glad the story showed me how and why Des did what he did in Georgia's book. (Additionally, it explained Mia's less than flattering outbursts.)
These characters are easy to connect with and empathize with, and these pages turned themselves. I felt lots of things in this one: frustration, happiness, empathy, and more.
I recommend reading this book in the correct reading order to get the most from the story and series. I was fortunate to receive a free ARC of this one and I happily leave my review.
This series is addictive and engaging. I am glad that I had previously read all the characters mentioned in this story, because that made the read so much better. Even though, going into this, I was not a fan of Des.
I am glad the story showed me how and why Des did what he did in Georgia's book. (Additionally, it explained Mia's less than flattering outbursts.)
These characters are easy to connect with and empathize with, and these pages turned themselves. I felt lots of things in this one: frustration, happiness, empathy, and more.
I recommend reading this book in the correct reading order to get the most from the story and series. I was fortunate to receive a free ARC of this one and I happily leave my review.
January 2, 2023
This is one of my favourite series. I love the characters of Hearts Cove. Mia and Des are the latest couple and I love them. Mia is a single mum who has fought hard to raise her daughter alone and keep her head above the water. Des has recently entered her life, raised her rent and sent her life into a tailspin. Turning her anger towards the hot man who has added extra stress to her life, Mia is torn between her attraction and disgust at the arrogant man who has turned her life upside down. But Hearts Cove weaves its magic and sprinkles love into the air. Steamy attraction results when all is not as it seems! Enemies become lovers and the ladies and their partners of Hearts Cove, help to add humour and additional narrative to the story.
This midlife series is not to be missed
This midlife series is not to be missed
January 3, 2023
Another Great Romance!
Love this series! The stories never disappoint! Mia has had a tragic life, single mom rearing 9 year old Bailey alone because her husband walked away , not wanting children. The reader finds her small apartment, behind her barber shop being flooded by broken water pipes, Her landlord , Des, does start repairs, offers a condo for their use, while the old place is being renovated! Then, the fun starts! Dew has secretly yearned for Mia since meeting here but a bad childhood has made him very wary of relationships! They make a bargain. Mia is his fake date for Thanksgiving with his family in exchange for 3 months free rent! Be ready to laugh, cry, and enjoy their unusual romance!
Love this series! The stories never disappoint! Mia has had a tragic life, single mom rearing 9 year old Bailey alone because her husband walked away , not wanting children. The reader finds her small apartment, behind her barber shop being flooded by broken water pipes, Her landlord , Des, does start repairs, offers a condo for their use, while the old place is being renovated! Then, the fun starts! Dew has secretly yearned for Mia since meeting here but a bad childhood has made him very wary of relationships! They make a bargain. Mia is his fake date for Thanksgiving with his family in exchange for 3 months free rent! Be ready to laugh, cry, and enjoy their unusual romance!
January 5, 2023
great installment to this series!
I really enjoy this series, and Mia & Des’s story is another to enjoy!
We met them in an earlier book (the author does this fun overlap of characters from one story to the next) and saw that there might be some fireworks between them. But being both loners, careful & standoff-ish meant that neither of them believed they could find someone to love and that a partner in life wasn’t in the cards.
Great watching their story develop. Mia is a firecracker, who fiercely protects her daughter & her heart, while Des has spent his life feeling like he doesn’t belong.
And of course, always fun to watch the interactions between all the ladies here who have found each other and their loves while hanging out in this quirky small town!
I really enjoy this series, and Mia & Des’s story is another to enjoy!
We met them in an earlier book (the author does this fun overlap of characters from one story to the next) and saw that there might be some fireworks between them. But being both loners, careful & standoff-ish meant that neither of them believed they could find someone to love and that a partner in life wasn’t in the cards.
Great watching their story develop. Mia is a firecracker, who fiercely protects her daughter & her heart, while Des has spent his life feeling like he doesn’t belong.
And of course, always fun to watch the interactions between all the ladies here who have found each other and their loves while hanging out in this quirky small town!
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