What do you think?
Rate this book
The Haven Brothers #5
Captivation Creek
He’ll help her solve a mystery, but they can’t risk their hearts.
A devastating injury ended Theo Haven’s pro-football career, but he’s made a good life for himself in his hometown. The high school teacher and football coach might be single, but that’s by choice. And his work bestie, Penelope? She’s one of the best parts of his job, but they’re just friends.
No, really. Not the sort of friends who are secretly pining for each other or destined to hook up. Just… friends.
Art teacher Penelope Fallbrook is stuck in a rut. When a locally renowned artist dies suspiciously, she channels her restless energy into amateur sleuthing. Who better than her best friend Theo to help her search for the truth?
When Penelope’s life comes crashing down, Theo is there, picking up the pieces and offering a place to stay. Best friends become roommates, and living one room away might be too much temptation.
As they dig deeper into the mystery of the artist’s death, secrets unravel. Are they searching for a murderer? Or uncovering the work of a serial killer?
And Penelope might be in danger of becoming the next victim.
Author’s Note: a fun twist on friends-to-lovers with work besties turned roommates turned lovers. A murder mystery, small-town shenanigans, feuding senior citizens, page-turning suspense, and a charming couple who will steal your heart.
Captivation Creek can be read as a stand-alone.
A devastating injury ended Theo Haven’s pro-football career, but he’s made a good life for himself in his hometown. The high school teacher and football coach might be single, but that’s by choice. And his work bestie, Penelope? She’s one of the best parts of his job, but they’re just friends.
No, really. Not the sort of friends who are secretly pining for each other or destined to hook up. Just… friends.
Art teacher Penelope Fallbrook is stuck in a rut. When a locally renowned artist dies suspiciously, she channels her restless energy into amateur sleuthing. Who better than her best friend Theo to help her search for the truth?
When Penelope’s life comes crashing down, Theo is there, picking up the pieces and offering a place to stay. Best friends become roommates, and living one room away might be too much temptation.
As they dig deeper into the mystery of the artist’s death, secrets unravel. Are they searching for a murderer? Or uncovering the work of a serial killer?
And Penelope might be in danger of becoming the next victim.
Author’s Note: a fun twist on friends-to-lovers with work besties turned roommates turned lovers. A murder mystery, small-town shenanigans, feuding senior citizens, page-turning suspense, and a charming couple who will steal your heart.
Captivation Creek can be read as a stand-alone.
368 pages, ebook
First published April 7, 2026
About the author
Claire Kingsley
59 books12.6k followersClaire Kingsley is a USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling author of sexy, heartfelt contemporary romance, romantic comedies, and small-town romantic suspense. She writes sassy, quirky heroines, swoony heroes who love their women hard, romantic happily ever afters, and all the big feels.
Add Claire's next release to your TBR today:
NOW AVAILABLE ON AUDIO:
Add Claire's next release to your TBR today:
NOW AVAILABLE ON AUDIO:
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 462 reviews
May 5, 2026
Como en los anteriores libros de esta serie, nos encontramos con una historia de suspense romántico ambientada en Tilikum.
Entre el misterio, los Haven y la bonita amistad de nuestros protagonistas, el libro se lee en un momento. Lo que cada vez echo más en falta es el romance, aunque lo tiene, pero se siente como una transición, algo que estaba en el fondo de la amistad y no he sentido la química.
Es una etapa diferente de la autora y las he leído todas, sigo devorando sus libros, pero seguro que echo de menos sus historias de hace algunos años.
Tengo muchas ganas de cerrar el ciclo con el libro de Reese, el hermano más misterioso y ver qué sigue.
Entre el misterio, los Haven y la bonita amistad de nuestros protagonistas, el libro se lee en un momento. Lo que cada vez echo más en falta es el romance, aunque lo tiene, pero se siente como una transición, algo que estaba en el fondo de la amistad y no he sentido la química.
Es una etapa diferente de la autora y las he leído todas, sigo devorando sus libros, pero seguro que echo de menos sus historias de hace algunos años.
Tengo muchas ganas de cerrar el ciclo con el libro de Reese, el hermano más misterioso y ver qué sigue.
April 7, 2026
i always love revisiting Tilikum through the Haven series’ new installments, there’s something about this family that makes every book feel special. i had been waiting for Theo’s story, and the moment i found out it was friends to lovers, i immediately picked it up and practically devoured it.
what i really appreciated is that it’s not the typical childhood friends to lovers. their friendship was brief, and everything builds slowly from there, which gave the romance a really satisfying slow-burn arc.
Penelope was such a joy to read; sweet, kind, and genuinely caring. and Theo… he’s a Haven, of course, but i especially loved his personality here, the way he showed up for her, how supportive and attentive he was.
as expected with a Claire Kingsley book, there’s also a strong mystery element distilled into the story. the more the story developed, the more i found myself completely pulled into it. i loved how the suspense and romance blended so harmonically together. the romance itself was impeccable, i loved them from start to finish.
i’m already excited for the next book in the series, especially knowing there’s still one Haven left whose story we haven’t fully uncovered yet.
many thanks to the author for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review
what i really appreciated is that it’s not the typical childhood friends to lovers. their friendship was brief, and everything builds slowly from there, which gave the romance a really satisfying slow-burn arc.
Penelope was such a joy to read; sweet, kind, and genuinely caring. and Theo… he’s a Haven, of course, but i especially loved his personality here, the way he showed up for her, how supportive and attentive he was.
as expected with a Claire Kingsley book, there’s also a strong mystery element distilled into the story. the more the story developed, the more i found myself completely pulled into it. i loved how the suspense and romance blended so harmonically together. the romance itself was impeccable, i loved them from start to finish.
i’m already excited for the next book in the series, especially knowing there’s still one Haven left whose story we haven’t fully uncovered yet.
many thanks to the author for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review
March 24, 2026
The wait was so worth it! This book and audiobook was everything and then some that I hoped for in Theo and Penelope’s story and the return back to the beloved quirky small town of Tilikum.
Theo Haven is the high school football coach and teacher and Penelope is the high school art teacher. Work place besties that turned into a friends to roommates and then roommates to lovers situation.
I also adored her grandma Colleen and her antics with pranking a Havens man in the assisted living facility.
This whole book made my heart so happy!
Theo Haven is the high school football coach and teacher and Penelope is the high school art teacher. Work place besties that turned into a friends to roommates and then roommates to lovers situation.
I also adored her grandma Colleen and her antics with pranking a Havens man in the assisted living facility.
This whole book made my heart so happy!
May 12, 2026
Captivation Creek had one job: keep me invested, either through the romance or the mystery. It failed at both.
The book follows Theo Haven, a former NFL player whose career was cut short by injury, now living a quiet life as a high school teacher and football coach in his hometown. His closest companion is his colleague and best friend, Penelope Fallbrook, an art teacher stuck in a stagnant relationship and an even more stagnant routine.
When a well-known local artist dies under suspicious circumstances, Penelope becomes drawn into uncovering the truth. What begins as curiosity quickly turns into an amateur investigation, with Theo stepping in to help. As clues emerge—hidden messages in paintings, connections to long-buried secrets, and the possibility of multiple murders—the stakes begin to rise.
At the same time, Penelope’s personal life unravels, pushing her to move in with Theo. Their living situation blurs the boundaries of their long-standing friendship, complicating both the investigation and their emotions.
As they dig deeper, they realize the mystery may be far more dangerous than they anticipated—and that Penelope herself could be in the killer’s crosshairs.
I’ll be honest, I haven’t loved every book in The Haven Brothers series, but up until now, they were at least readable. Something—whether it was the suspense or the characters—kept me turning pages. This one? I DNF’d at 40-percent and only skimmed the last few chapters to find out who the killer was. That’s all the engagement it managed to earn.
The core issue is that everything feels phoned in.
Theo and Penelope’s “friends-to-lovers” arc is the biggest offender. There’s no tension, no buildup, no emotional payoff. It’s the kind of transition where it feels like the characters just wake up one day and decide they’re in love. No pining, no internal conflict worth caring about—just a flat, mechanical shift. Their chemistry is non-existent. Reading their interactions felt like watching paint dry, except less stimulating. Even Theo being a “green flag” doesn’t help when he’s this boring.
The tropes—friends to lovers, forced proximity, “rescued from a man-child boyfriend”—are all there, but executed in the most predictable, uninspired way possible. Nothing is subverted, nothing is elevated. It practically reads like a checklist.
Then there’s the mystery, which should have been the saving grace. Instead, it’s equally underwhelming. The amateur sleuthing feels unrealistic, and the reveal is both cliché and eye-roll worthy. Compared to earlier books in the series, the suspense here is watered down to the point of irrelevance.
What makes it worse is how juvenile the characters come across. These are supposed to be adults in their 30s, but the dialogue—constant nicknames, fist bumps, awkward banter—feels more like teenagers trying to imitate adulthood. It creates a disconnect that’s hard to ignore.
The pacing doesn’t help either. It drags through the middle with very little payoff, and while the ending somewhat ties things together, it’s too little, too late.
At this point, the only reason I’d even consider continuing the series is for Reese’s story. He’s been built up across multiple books as the mysterious, long-lost brother, and there’s at least some intrigue there. But after this installment, expectations are… low.
Overall, this felt like an author going through the motions rather than telling a story they were invested in. And it shows.
The book follows Theo Haven, a former NFL player whose career was cut short by injury, now living a quiet life as a high school teacher and football coach in his hometown. His closest companion is his colleague and best friend, Penelope Fallbrook, an art teacher stuck in a stagnant relationship and an even more stagnant routine.
When a well-known local artist dies under suspicious circumstances, Penelope becomes drawn into uncovering the truth. What begins as curiosity quickly turns into an amateur investigation, with Theo stepping in to help. As clues emerge—hidden messages in paintings, connections to long-buried secrets, and the possibility of multiple murders—the stakes begin to rise.
At the same time, Penelope’s personal life unravels, pushing her to move in with Theo. Their living situation blurs the boundaries of their long-standing friendship, complicating both the investigation and their emotions.
As they dig deeper, they realize the mystery may be far more dangerous than they anticipated—and that Penelope herself could be in the killer’s crosshairs.
I’ll be honest, I haven’t loved every book in The Haven Brothers series, but up until now, they were at least readable. Something—whether it was the suspense or the characters—kept me turning pages. This one? I DNF’d at 40-percent and only skimmed the last few chapters to find out who the killer was. That’s all the engagement it managed to earn.
The core issue is that everything feels phoned in.
Theo and Penelope’s “friends-to-lovers” arc is the biggest offender. There’s no tension, no buildup, no emotional payoff. It’s the kind of transition where it feels like the characters just wake up one day and decide they’re in love. No pining, no internal conflict worth caring about—just a flat, mechanical shift. Their chemistry is non-existent. Reading their interactions felt like watching paint dry, except less stimulating. Even Theo being a “green flag” doesn’t help when he’s this boring.
The tropes—friends to lovers, forced proximity, “rescued from a man-child boyfriend”—are all there, but executed in the most predictable, uninspired way possible. Nothing is subverted, nothing is elevated. It practically reads like a checklist.
Then there’s the mystery, which should have been the saving grace. Instead, it’s equally underwhelming. The amateur sleuthing feels unrealistic, and the reveal is both cliché and eye-roll worthy. Compared to earlier books in the series, the suspense here is watered down to the point of irrelevance.
What makes it worse is how juvenile the characters come across. These are supposed to be adults in their 30s, but the dialogue—constant nicknames, fist bumps, awkward banter—feels more like teenagers trying to imitate adulthood. It creates a disconnect that’s hard to ignore.
The pacing doesn’t help either. It drags through the middle with very little payoff, and while the ending somewhat ties things together, it’s too little, too late.
At this point, the only reason I’d even consider continuing the series is for Reese’s story. He’s been built up across multiple books as the mysterious, long-lost brother, and there’s at least some intrigue there. But after this installment, expectations are… low.
Overall, this felt like an author going through the motions rather than telling a story they were invested in. And it shows.
April 24, 2025
Theo and Penelope? From Levi’s book?
April 9, 2026
These two were dating for actually 3 weeks before he proposed. Whatever.
Cute. It’s been a while since I read the other ones so I was having trouble keeping track of who everyone was but that’s a me problem.
I really thought it was funny when they were gossiping about the other teachers they thought were in a relationship because yall bring your lunch in the same bag what do you think they’re saying about you???
Cute. It’s been a while since I read the other ones so I was having trouble keeping track of who everyone was but that’s a me problem.
I really thought it was funny when they were gossiping about the other teachers they thought were in a relationship because yall bring your lunch in the same bag what do you think they’re saying about you???
nope-nope-or-nah
April 1, 2026“Amateur sleuthing”? No thanks! 🙂↔️ Why do so many authors want their characters to be part of the Scooby Doo gang? You want to write a murder mystery? Have one of your characters be a cop solving the crime, not an art teacher. 🙄
April 8, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
It was a cute, fun read!
It was a cute, fun read!
April 13, 2026
Not what I have expected. Quite predictable and a little tame on the mystery/thriller part but nonetheless it felt like a warm hug.
But as always, Miss Kingsley never disappoints.
Ps. I love the Faking Ms. Right reference iykyk.
But as always, Miss Kingsley never disappoints.
Ps. I love the Faking Ms. Right reference iykyk.
March 31, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Theo & Penelope!! This one stole my heart. I have been so excited to get to this book & it did not let me down!!
Narration by Vanessa Edwin & Alastair Haynesbridge was done so well! This was my first time listening to the male narrator & I loved it!
Theo is a high school Football coach/teacher & Penelope is the school art teacher. These two are work besties turn roommates, to lovers & I absolutely loved their relationship! They were so fun, loveable, and just swoony!! This is romantic suspense and the added mystery gave this one such a fun, keep you on your toes, element!!
Theo is just the charming/guarded MMC who is funny & just such a sweet man! Pen is your strong FMC who is full of heart and together these two have the best chemistry!
This story was fun, hilarious, and also held a lot of added emotion! The grandma in this was definitely my favorite and her character made me so laugh. I was not expecting the twist in this one, but it definitely made this ride such a great one!!
Thank you Claire Kingsley & team for this early copy. Such an amazingly well write story that just has a way of sucking you in & making you love every second!
Theo & Penelope!! This one stole my heart. I have been so excited to get to this book & it did not let me down!!
Narration by Vanessa Edwin & Alastair Haynesbridge was done so well! This was my first time listening to the male narrator & I loved it!
Theo is a high school Football coach/teacher & Penelope is the school art teacher. These two are work besties turn roommates, to lovers & I absolutely loved their relationship! They were so fun, loveable, and just swoony!! This is romantic suspense and the added mystery gave this one such a fun, keep you on your toes, element!!
Theo is just the charming/guarded MMC who is funny & just such a sweet man! Pen is your strong FMC who is full of heart and together these two have the best chemistry!
This story was fun, hilarious, and also held a lot of added emotion! The grandma in this was definitely my favorite and her character made me so laugh. I was not expecting the twist in this one, but it definitely made this ride such a great one!!
Thank you Claire Kingsley & team for this early copy. Such an amazingly well write story that just has a way of sucking you in & making you love every second!
April 13, 2026
Theo Haven had just kissed me, and it had short-circuited my brain.
♥️Small Town
🍂Workplace Romance
♥️Romantic Suspense
🍂Best Friends to Lovers
♥️Forced Proximity
🍂Found Family
Tilikum is truly one of my favorite small towns!! Claire writes the best small towns that you are ready to move to! I adore the Havens. We get to see a whole other side to them from when we met them with the Baileys. I’m telling you, you will fall in love with Claire’s characters and books!
Theo and Penelope are adorable. Their friendship is major goals and their dynamic is everything. When they finally give into their feelings…you can see so much of their friendship.
The nicknames that Theo has for Penelope is the cutest! Major swoon!
I love the little tie in to the Dirty Martini Running Club!!
I love everything about this series!! The audiobook was so good too! I highly recommend! Thank you Claire for the gifted ARC and ALC! I can’t wait for Reese!!
♥️Small Town
🍂Workplace Romance
♥️Romantic Suspense
🍂Best Friends to Lovers
♥️Forced Proximity
🍂Found Family
Tilikum is truly one of my favorite small towns!! Claire writes the best small towns that you are ready to move to! I adore the Havens. We get to see a whole other side to them from when we met them with the Baileys. I’m telling you, you will fall in love with Claire’s characters and books!
Theo and Penelope are adorable. Their friendship is major goals and their dynamic is everything. When they finally give into their feelings…you can see so much of their friendship.
The nicknames that Theo has for Penelope is the cutest! Major swoon!
I love the little tie in to the Dirty Martini Running Club!!
I love everything about this series!! The audiobook was so good too! I highly recommend! Thank you Claire for the gifted ARC and ALC! I can’t wait for Reese!!
March 30, 2026
When I tell you all I have been WAITING for Captivation Creek for so many days. I say it with my WHHHOLLEEE CHEST.
Theo & Penelope were so worth the wait though!! This romantic suspense of BESTFRIENDS to lovers was SO PERFECT.
Theo Haven is a fb coach and math teacher!! He played for the pros and was faced with a career ending injury - so home he went.. he lives a simple life. Him and Penelope are best friends and she’s the art teacher at the high school! They have the best relationship.. & it never feels forced or cringy.. it truly is written like a best friendship.
When something happens and Pen needs a place to live.. it looks like her best friend just became her roomie!! Theo is so reserved to women, and you don’t really understand WHY he doesn’t want to settle down or ever get married until- you do and it’s heartbreaking. I love this man… he is quirky and so funny.. the little nicknames he gives Pen were my favorite lol I highlighted every single one of them!!
& as always- I never have a clue WHO the bad guy is. I was SHOOKITH at the suspense side of things.
I’m so grateful for the ARC copy for the author and her team. After finishing the paperback, I received the ALC, and let me just say… I love to eyeball read a book… but the narrators in this. They did the DAMN THING!!! IT. WAS. SO. GOOD IN AUDIO!!! (Narrated by Vanessa Edwin ( a personal fav of mine) and a new to be narrator Alastair Haynesbridge, who was also phenomenal!!
I never thought I would be able to say I loved a Haven more than a Bailey- but I just might with Theo..
Theo & Penelope were so worth the wait though!! This romantic suspense of BESTFRIENDS to lovers was SO PERFECT.
Theo Haven is a fb coach and math teacher!! He played for the pros and was faced with a career ending injury - so home he went.. he lives a simple life. Him and Penelope are best friends and she’s the art teacher at the high school! They have the best relationship.. & it never feels forced or cringy.. it truly is written like a best friendship.
When something happens and Pen needs a place to live.. it looks like her best friend just became her roomie!! Theo is so reserved to women, and you don’t really understand WHY he doesn’t want to settle down or ever get married until- you do and it’s heartbreaking. I love this man… he is quirky and so funny.. the little nicknames he gives Pen were my favorite lol I highlighted every single one of them!!
& as always- I never have a clue WHO the bad guy is. I was SHOOKITH at the suspense side of things.
I’m so grateful for the ARC copy for the author and her team. After finishing the paperback, I received the ALC, and let me just say… I love to eyeball read a book… but the narrators in this. They did the DAMN THING!!! IT. WAS. SO. GOOD IN AUDIO!!! (Narrated by Vanessa Edwin ( a personal fav of mine) and a new to be narrator Alastair Haynesbridge, who was also phenomenal!!
I never thought I would be able to say I loved a Haven more than a Bailey- but I just might with Theo..
April 22, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5!!!
okay, this is my fave in the series yet! the vibes were SO fun!!! 🤩
i knew i’d enjoy theo’s story but i didn’t think i’d like it this much! he & penelope shared the cutest friendship, and watching it slowly morph into something more was so gratifying. i really think this is one of the better friends to lovers romances! there was no insta-lust or insta-love, just a slow, gradual awakening to the realization that the other was *their* person.
the plot was so fun! i think this is my favorite of all the romantic-suspense elements in the series so far. a beloved but deceased local artist whose scenic paintings appear to be those of burial grounds for missing/murdered women? are they clues or are they confessions? who’s to know! 👀
okay, this is my fave in the series yet! the vibes were SO fun!!! 🤩
i knew i’d enjoy theo’s story but i didn’t think i’d like it this much! he & penelope shared the cutest friendship, and watching it slowly morph into something more was so gratifying. i really think this is one of the better friends to lovers romances! there was no insta-lust or insta-love, just a slow, gradual awakening to the realization that the other was *their* person.
the plot was so fun! i think this is my favorite of all the romantic-suspense elements in the series so far. a beloved but deceased local artist whose scenic paintings appear to be those of burial grounds for missing/murdered women? are they clues or are they confessions? who’s to know! 👀
April 11, 2026
Friends to More is my favorite trope and Claire Kingsley wrote it so well with this story! Theo and Penelope were so fun together. Their friendship felt easy and natural, but with that edge of something that could become more even if they didn't realize it at first.
I was hooked from the very beginning of the book, but couldn't put it down once their relationship began to evolve and the mystery began to unfold. I read this in both ebook and audiobook formats and I loved both. The narrators did a great job and fit Theo and Penelope well.
I have read and enjoyed so many of Claire's books, and this is definitely a new favorite!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
I was hooked from the very beginning of the book, but couldn't put it down once their relationship began to evolve and the mystery began to unfold. I read this in both ebook and audiobook formats and I loved both. The narrators did a great job and fit Theo and Penelope well.
I have read and enjoyed so many of Claire's books, and this is definitely a new favorite!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
April 14, 2026
I used to love this series but this book was as interesting as watching paint dry and this couple's chemistry was about the same as a wet towel. I'll be tuning in for Reese's story if only because I'm super curious to know what the story there is but I won't be expecting much
April 13, 2026
Another great addition tho the Haven brothers series. Theo and Penelope were likeable characters and their friends to lovers journey was sweet. The mystery plot was interesting and I liked that Theo and Pen, as wannabe detectives, didn't solve the mystery all on their own. 4 stars instead of 5 because it was a little slow going in parts. I'm looking forward to finally reading Reese's book after all the hints in the rest of the series.
April 10, 2026
Ooh this was a good one! Sad to have to wait till September to learn about Reese
April 8, 2026
This was so good! I knew Theo was going to be swoony! Now I'm SUPER excited for Reese's book!
April 8, 2026
5🌟
✨ I was not expecting to love Theo Haven as much as I did. This book was incredible and I couldn’t put it down, literally finished within 24 hours. I love the sense of found family and friendships in these books and the mystery always has me hooked.
✨Penelope was such a fun character and I loved her friendship with Theo. I think the transition from them going from friends to more was very realistic and I was constantly smiling at them both trying to deny their feelings. I love that these books don’t have a third act breakup and the mystery in this was so fun and exciting.
✨I can barely contain my excitement over the fact we are finally getting Reese’s book next and I can’t wait to see how he fits into the family and find out more about him. If you have not read this series yet you are missing out!!
✨ I was not expecting to love Theo Haven as much as I did. This book was incredible and I couldn’t put it down, literally finished within 24 hours. I love the sense of found family and friendships in these books and the mystery always has me hooked.
✨Penelope was such a fun character and I loved her friendship with Theo. I think the transition from them going from friends to more was very realistic and I was constantly smiling at them both trying to deny their feelings. I love that these books don’t have a third act breakup and the mystery in this was so fun and exciting.
✨I can barely contain my excitement over the fact we are finally getting Reese’s book next and I can’t wait to see how he fits into the family and find out more about him. If you have not read this series yet you are missing out!!
April 9, 2026
This book has everything I love to read. Best friends to lovers, small town romance (and gossip 😊), family hijinks, and laughter with a side of suspense. If you’re a fan of those tropes then you’ll love Captivation Creek!
Theo is the high school football coach and teacher. Penelope is the art teacher and Theo’s work Bestie. Together they pull pranks on coworkers and support each other through the day. When Penelope breaks up with her boyfriend and needs a place to live Theo quickly offers her the spare room at his house. When she needs help moving her stuff from her ex-boyfriend’s house, Theo jumps in to help. Penelope makes lunches for the two of them for the week. When Deal gets a job offer on the other side of the country Penelope is supportive of him even though she knows she will miss him.
When a local artist dies, who Penelope considered to be a mentor, she and Theo go to the memorial service. While there they overheard a couple of conversations that led them to believe that he may have been murdered. Theo and Penelope start quietly poking around to try and find out what happened to him. The suspense part of the story had a twist I wasn’t expecting!
I loved how the chemistry between them grew, as they both started to realize they were becoming more than friends. The “I can’t have these tingles when he’s around me, Theo’s my best friend” to the “what ifs” What if this doesn’t work? I don’t want to lose our friendship!
When I read the Bailey Brothers series, I didn’t think I would ever like a Haven! But of course, Claire Kingsley made me a fan from Chapter 1 of Obsession Falls, book 1 of the Haven Series. If this is the first Haven book you’ve read, you’ll enjoy it, but I recommend you go back and read the first 4 too! If you want to learn about the feud between the Bailey Brothers and the Havens, go back and read the Bailey Brothers series! It doesn’t matter which book or series you pick up you’re going to love it!
Theo is the high school football coach and teacher. Penelope is the art teacher and Theo’s work Bestie. Together they pull pranks on coworkers and support each other through the day. When Penelope breaks up with her boyfriend and needs a place to live Theo quickly offers her the spare room at his house. When she needs help moving her stuff from her ex-boyfriend’s house, Theo jumps in to help. Penelope makes lunches for the two of them for the week. When Deal gets a job offer on the other side of the country Penelope is supportive of him even though she knows she will miss him.
When a local artist dies, who Penelope considered to be a mentor, she and Theo go to the memorial service. While there they overheard a couple of conversations that led them to believe that he may have been murdered. Theo and Penelope start quietly poking around to try and find out what happened to him. The suspense part of the story had a twist I wasn’t expecting!
I loved how the chemistry between them grew, as they both started to realize they were becoming more than friends. The “I can’t have these tingles when he’s around me, Theo’s my best friend” to the “what ifs” What if this doesn’t work? I don’t want to lose our friendship!
When I read the Bailey Brothers series, I didn’t think I would ever like a Haven! But of course, Claire Kingsley made me a fan from Chapter 1 of Obsession Falls, book 1 of the Haven Series. If this is the first Haven book you’ve read, you’ll enjoy it, but I recommend you go back and read the first 4 too! If you want to learn about the feud between the Bailey Brothers and the Havens, go back and read the Bailey Brothers series! It doesn’t matter which book or series you pick up you’re going to love it!
April 9, 2026
Theo Haven is Tillikum High's math teacher and beloved football coach. After a devastating injury that ended his pro-football career, he returned to his hometown to be near his huge family.
All he needed were the kids he taught, his family and his best friend, fellow teacher, Penelope. Despite their closeness, there have never been any romantic feelings between them. But that changed when her boyfriend left her stranded out of town and was in need of a place to stay.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. This book may be able to be read as a standalone, but get real, you MUST read this complete series so you don't miss any of the Haven brothers. Better yet, start with the Bailey Brothers to get the full story about Tillikum, a centuries-old feud between the Baileys and Havens and their thieving squirrel population.
This book is action-packed, steamy hot, and full of suspense and danger as Theo and Penelope start investigating the death of a local artist.
This story is narrated by two amazing voice actors, Alastair Haynesbridge and Vanessa Edwin. They had this story and these characters come to life. Vanessa was perfect for Penelope and I fell even more in love with Theo through the voice of Alastair. I highly recommend both of these narrators if you have a chance to listen to anything else in the future.
We are getting down to the last Haven brother who we only know by name and his brothers' ire as he took off years ago with no word to anyone but their mother since. I both can't wait for Reese's story and hate to see the end of Tillikum. It can't be the end, can it?
Highly recommend!
All he needed were the kids he taught, his family and his best friend, fellow teacher, Penelope. Despite their closeness, there have never been any romantic feelings between them. But that changed when her boyfriend left her stranded out of town and was in need of a place to stay.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. This book may be able to be read as a standalone, but get real, you MUST read this complete series so you don't miss any of the Haven brothers. Better yet, start with the Bailey Brothers to get the full story about Tillikum, a centuries-old feud between the Baileys and Havens and their thieving squirrel population.
This book is action-packed, steamy hot, and full of suspense and danger as Theo and Penelope start investigating the death of a local artist.
This story is narrated by two amazing voice actors, Alastair Haynesbridge and Vanessa Edwin. They had this story and these characters come to life. Vanessa was perfect for Penelope and I fell even more in love with Theo through the voice of Alastair. I highly recommend both of these narrators if you have a chance to listen to anything else in the future.
We are getting down to the last Haven brother who we only know by name and his brothers' ire as he took off years ago with no word to anyone but their mother since. I both can't wait for Reese's story and hate to see the end of Tillikum. It can't be the end, can it?
Highly recommend!
April 14, 2026
*4.5
It’s so good to be back in Tilikum with another Haven brother. I’ve been waiting for Theo’s story and it didn’t disappoint! The best friends to lovers is done in a way that it gives Pam and Jim vibes. Add in the mystery and just fun quirky small town vibes just makes this story fun!
The friendship between Theo and Penelope is so heartwarming and had me giddy. The mystery that the two roommates/best friends turned lovers is solving is one that I haven’t really seen.
Penelope is such a sweet character. Seeing her come into herself and completely start her life over is written beautifully. Theo is a lovable teddy bear. The way he’s so supportive of Penelope even when they’re just work besties made him even more lovable. I can’t wait for the next book! If you love quirky small town, mystery, best friends turned roommates to lovers this is the book for you!
Tropes:
🐿️ Small town
🐿️ Romantic Suspense
🐿️ Best Friends/Roommates to lovers
🐿️ Workplace
🐿️ Forced Proximity
“I want you to stay,” I said, my voice shaky. “I know it’s selfish, and I should want what’s best for you. And I shouldn’t have caught feelings, but I did. I keep trying to pretend I didn’t and it’s fine, but it’s not fine, Theo. Nothing is fine.”
It’s so good to be back in Tilikum with another Haven brother. I’ve been waiting for Theo’s story and it didn’t disappoint! The best friends to lovers is done in a way that it gives Pam and Jim vibes. Add in the mystery and just fun quirky small town vibes just makes this story fun!
The friendship between Theo and Penelope is so heartwarming and had me giddy. The mystery that the two roommates/best friends turned lovers is solving is one that I haven’t really seen.
Penelope is such a sweet character. Seeing her come into herself and completely start her life over is written beautifully. Theo is a lovable teddy bear. The way he’s so supportive of Penelope even when they’re just work besties made him even more lovable. I can’t wait for the next book! If you love quirky small town, mystery, best friends turned roommates to lovers this is the book for you!
Tropes:
🐿️ Small town
🐿️ Romantic Suspense
🐿️ Best Friends/Roommates to lovers
🐿️ Workplace
🐿️ Forced Proximity
“I want you to stay,” I said, my voice shaky. “I know it’s selfish, and I should want what’s best for you. And I shouldn’t have caught feelings, but I did. I keep trying to pretend I didn’t and it’s fine, but it’s not fine, Theo. Nothing is fine.”
May 26, 2026
CAPTIVATION CREEK 🧡
Written by Claire Kingsley
📚The Haven Brothers, Book 5
Interconnected Standalone
Adult • Romance • 368 Pages
🗓️Out Now!
🧡friends to lovers
🧡roommates to lovers
🧡workplace romance
🧡romantic suspense
🧡ONS to more
📚small town
🔎”Do you need anything?
Maybe just you, Pen.
I’m starting to realize I react the same way to “F it” and “my wife” as I do to “she’s worth the risk.”
This book was a case of the latter, where our very guarded MMC had the highest stakes and still choses her *sigh*
They were so perfect as friends but they were everything as more! All the little things he noticed about her met all the little things she did for him. The best example of two people making each other better.
The suspense was such a good add-on to this love story 👏🏼
Written by Claire Kingsley
📚The Haven Brothers, Book 5
Interconnected Standalone
Adult • Romance • 368 Pages
🗓️Out Now!
🧡friends to lovers
🧡roommates to lovers
🧡workplace romance
🧡romantic suspense
🧡ONS to more
📚small town
🔎”Do you need anything?
Maybe just you, Pen.
I’m starting to realize I react the same way to “F it” and “my wife” as I do to “she’s worth the risk.”
This book was a case of the latter, where our very guarded MMC had the highest stakes and still choses her *sigh*
They were so perfect as friends but they were everything as more! All the little things he noticed about her met all the little things she did for him. The best example of two people making each other better.
The suspense was such a good add-on to this love story 👏🏼
April 9, 2026
Best friends destined to be more
Theo and Penelope had me hooked and swooning from the very beginning. Their work bestie friendship was absolutely everything. I loved the way they fed off of each other, and just seemed to constantly be there to take care of each other. I love the way that Penelope always wanted to show support for Theo and his coaching & the way that Theo was there for her when she had nowhere else to go had me kicking and screaming with excitement. And his support of her art & painting where her ex could never be bothered just wrapped me in a warm blanket. And I absolutely adored all of the cute little nicknames that Theo gave Penelope through the book.
Their chemistry is off the charts and their love was inevitable. These two were the perfect storm. Best friends with a strong foundation brought even closer by an ugly breakup with an ex, then throw in the art gift mystery, & the Penlock Holmes investigating…this book had it all!
Audiobook Review:
Vanessa Edwin & Alastair Haynesbridge were phenomenal in their portrayal of Theo & Penelope. Their narration emersed me into the work of Tilikum & I was sad to leave when it was all over.
Theo and Penelope had me hooked and swooning from the very beginning. Their work bestie friendship was absolutely everything. I loved the way they fed off of each other, and just seemed to constantly be there to take care of each other. I love the way that Penelope always wanted to show support for Theo and his coaching & the way that Theo was there for her when she had nowhere else to go had me kicking and screaming with excitement. And his support of her art & painting where her ex could never be bothered just wrapped me in a warm blanket. And I absolutely adored all of the cute little nicknames that Theo gave Penelope through the book.
Their chemistry is off the charts and their love was inevitable. These two were the perfect storm. Best friends with a strong foundation brought even closer by an ugly breakup with an ex, then throw in the art gift mystery, & the Penlock Holmes investigating…this book had it all!
Audiobook Review:
Vanessa Edwin & Alastair Haynesbridge were phenomenal in their portrayal of Theo & Penelope. Their narration emersed me into the work of Tilikum & I was sad to leave when it was all over.
April 8, 2026
Ratings:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5
Tropes:
🏷️MM Romance
🏷️Friends to Lovers
🏷️Forced Proximity
🏷️Mystery/Suspense
My Review:
I LOVED this book like I have loved all of Claire’s books! Penny and Theo were so sweet. I loved them together, and these poor baby angels were so in deniable about their feelings. But I just loved how Theo brought Penny out of her shell. He got her to play pranks and gossip and have fun at work. He got a job that would have him leaving the state, but Penny becomes his roommate after her and her awful boyfriend break up. But their close proximity makes them realize that they had feelings that were more than just friends. But with Theo “leaving” they try to stay away. The attempt is futile though because their connection is palpable. I adored them together, and the spicy scenes that they had. They were like soul mates and I really loved reading them realizing they were in love. I also like the mystery that the author and the notes that they individually were investigating. It was a well written, fun, and cute read. I highly recommend this book and this whole series!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️.5/5
Tropes:
🏷️MM Romance
🏷️Friends to Lovers
🏷️Forced Proximity
🏷️Mystery/Suspense
My Review:
I LOVED this book like I have loved all of Claire’s books! Penny and Theo were so sweet. I loved them together, and these poor baby angels were so in deniable about their feelings. But I just loved how Theo brought Penny out of her shell. He got her to play pranks and gossip and have fun at work. He got a job that would have him leaving the state, but Penny becomes his roommate after her and her awful boyfriend break up. But their close proximity makes them realize that they had feelings that were more than just friends. But with Theo “leaving” they try to stay away. The attempt is futile though because their connection is palpable. I adored them together, and the spicy scenes that they had. They were like soul mates and I really loved reading them realizing they were in love. I also like the mystery that the author and the notes that they individually were investigating. It was a well written, fun, and cute read. I highly recommend this book and this whole series!
April 16, 2026
A cute friends to lovers story with some murder mystery sprinkled in. I was excited to dive back into this series and the town of Tilikum, but I was left wanting more.
Theo and Pen were cute trying to pretend they didn't like each other. I really like how Theo was there for Pen when she needed him, making her feel more seen in her life.
The Haven brothers/family banding together to help Pen was great. Z cracked me up when he was helping. The retirement home shenanigans brought in a fun element as well.
I only wish there was more depth to their relationship and maybe even a little more drama?
Theo and Pen were cute trying to pretend they didn't like each other. I really like how Theo was there for Pen when she needed him, making her feel more seen in her life.
The Haven brothers/family banding together to help Pen was great. Z cracked me up when he was helping. The retirement home shenanigans brought in a fun element as well.
I only wish there was more depth to their relationship and maybe even a little more drama?
April 16, 2026
Claire Kingsley has done it again! This book is the perfect blend of small-town charm, intense heat, and all the "forever" feels. The chemistry between Penelope and Theo is electric from the very first page.
Theo is absolute book boyfriend goals.
Favorite quotes:
"He looked at me like I was the only thing in the world that mattered. Like i was his entire world."
"Sometimes the person you least expect is the one who ends up capturing your heart for good."
"I don’t just want your time, Penelope. I want your heart. I want the whole damn thing."
Theo is absolute book boyfriend goals.
Favorite quotes:
"He looked at me like I was the only thing in the world that mattered. Like i was his entire world."
"Sometimes the person you least expect is the one who ends up capturing your heart for good."
"I don’t just want your time, Penelope. I want your heart. I want the whole damn thing."
April 13, 2026
Honestly, this book was such a fun, cozy read. I loved the small-town vibes mixed with a little bit of mystery—it kept things interesting without ever feeling too heavy. Theo and Penelope’s relationship was super easy to root for, and the friends-to-lovers tension was so good without being overly dramatic. The suspense added just enough intrigue to keep me hooked, but it still felt light and enjoyable overall. Definitely one of those books you can just sink into and have a good time with.
March 30, 2026
If you enjoy your small town suspense as a slow burn friends to lovers story, then this is going to be for you.
Getting out of a negative relationship, Penelope turns to her best friend and coworker Theo. Their dynamic soon changes when they end up as roommates. I love the “didn’t have anywhere else to go” vibes that were going on. Throw in a fake kiss, an annoying ex boyfriend, and a fun murder mystery in a small town setting. Overall it was a cute romance with lighter elements of mystery mixed into the story. Nothing really stood out to me about the story, would’ve liked more suspense like I’ve read in the other books in the series.
Getting out of a negative relationship, Penelope turns to her best friend and coworker Theo. Their dynamic soon changes when they end up as roommates. I love the “didn’t have anywhere else to go” vibes that were going on. Throw in a fake kiss, an annoying ex boyfriend, and a fun murder mystery in a small town setting. Overall it was a cute romance with lighter elements of mystery mixed into the story. Nothing really stood out to me about the story, would’ve liked more suspense like I’ve read in the other books in the series.
April 12, 2026
Friends to lovers. Work besties turned roommates turned more. A murder mystery wrapped in small-town charm and feuding senior citizens. What’s not to love?
Honestly, I’m just a girl who would happily live inside a Claire Kingsley series forever. Every book, every character, every cozy little fictional town… she just gets it. If you haven’t started the Haven Brothers yet, what are you even doing? 📚☕
Displaying 1 - 30 of 462 reviews