What do you think?
Rescue the Night
Touching Spencer—even for a millisecond—did things to my body. Wild things I could barely control.
I hate dentists. Except for Dr. Spencer Holland. It’s hard to hate him when he smiles at me, and those adorable crinkles appear at the corners of his big, brown eyes. I’m nervous as hell when he’s aiming sharp dental tools at me, but I’m also imagining how his lips would feel against mine. How his arms would feel wrapped around me. How our bodies would fit together perfectly.
I can’t actually have this sexy dentist though because he’s my brother’s best friend and totally off limits. Actually, Spencer is friends with all of my brothers—all five of them.
Oh, did I forget to mention I have five brothers? Five brothers who circle like me like a pack of protective wolves. Yeah, so anyway . . .
I’ve managed to hide my attraction to Spencer for fourteen years ever since he came to my rescue on my prom night. Lately ignoring my feelings for him, however, is a full-time job. One I’m failing at. Epically.
And there are these . . . moments when I almost believe Spencer wants me too. But that couldn’t be.
Could it?
I’m tired of being underwhelmed by every relationship I attempt with other guys. None of them measure up to Spencer, and it’s time I did something to make him mine.
Just don’t tell my brothers.
Rescue the Night is a small-town, brother's-best-friend, steamy, contemporary romance.
I hate dentists. Except for Dr. Spencer Holland. It’s hard to hate him when he smiles at me, and those adorable crinkles appear at the corners of his big, brown eyes. I’m nervous as hell when he’s aiming sharp dental tools at me, but I’m also imagining how his lips would feel against mine. How his arms would feel wrapped around me. How our bodies would fit together perfectly.
I can’t actually have this sexy dentist though because he’s my brother’s best friend and totally off limits. Actually, Spencer is friends with all of my brothers—all five of them.
Oh, did I forget to mention I have five brothers? Five brothers who circle like me like a pack of protective wolves. Yeah, so anyway . . .
I’ve managed to hide my attraction to Spencer for fourteen years ever since he came to my rescue on my prom night. Lately ignoring my feelings for him, however, is a full-time job. One I’m failing at. Epically.
And there are these . . . moments when I almost believe Spencer wants me too. But that couldn’t be.
Could it?
I’m tired of being underwhelmed by every relationship I attempt with other guys. None of them measure up to Spencer, and it’s time I did something to make him mine.
Just don’t tell my brothers.
Rescue the Night is a small-town, brother's-best-friend, steamy, contemporary romance.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 22, 2024
About the author
Christine DePetrillo
80 books655 followersChristine DePetrillo can often be found hugging trees, conversing with dragonflies, and walking barefoot through sun-warmed soil. She finds joy in listening to the wind, bathing in moonlight, and breathing in the fragrances of things that bloom. If she had her way, the sky would be the only roof over her head.
Her love of nature seeps into every story she tells. As does her obsession with bearded mountain men who build, often smell like sawdust, and know how to cherish the women they love. Today she writes tales meant to make you laugh, maybe make you sweat, and definitely make you believe in the power of love.
She lives in Vermont with her husband and cat who defend her fiercely from all evils.
Find Christine’s other titles at www.christinedepetrillo.weebly.com. Connect on Facebook at www.facebook.com/christinedepetrilloa..., on Instagram at @christinedepetrillo, and at the Small Town Hearts Facebook Group.
Her love of nature seeps into every story she tells. As does her obsession with bearded mountain men who build, often smell like sawdust, and know how to cherish the women they love. Today she writes tales meant to make you laugh, maybe make you sweat, and definitely make you believe in the power of love.
She lives in Vermont with her husband and cat who defend her fiercely from all evils.
Find Christine’s other titles at www.christinedepetrillo.weebly.com. Connect on Facebook at www.facebook.com/christinedepetrilloa..., on Instagram at @christinedepetrillo, and at the Small Town Hearts Facebook Group.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
April 5, 2026
This book left me with mixed feelings. Yes, I got my love story and my HEA, but there were some issues along the way that took me out of the story.
14 years ago, Spencer Holland rescued Vanessa Hartley, his best friend’s little sister, from a terrible date on her Prom night. They have had an attraction and feelings for each other ever since but have never acted on it. On Vanessa’s part, she believes it is because Spencer would never see her as anything other than the sister to her 5 brothers. For Spencer, it is because his own family fell apart 14 years ago and he can’t risk loosing the Hartley family who have taken him in as one of their own in many ways. That is, until a chipped tooth lands Vanessa in Spencer’s dental chair and she finally decides to take a chance.
This is a cozy, small town, brother’s best friend, romance with some humor and very light spice. Both the leads are likable (though there were several times I wanted Spencer to just man up already) but Hunter, the 12 year old boy in need of responsible adults in his life that brings Spencer and Vanessa closer together, is by far my favorite character. The insta-family that develops between the 3 of them is lovely and the real heart of the story. The big, messy Hartley family also has it’s charms but the many brothers are repeatedly mentioned and listed in a way that felt more like they were being set up for their own books later in the series, rather than given any real personality in this story.
The book suffers a bit from uneven pacing. It feels like very little happens for the first quarter of the book, then a good deal happens until the third act which is rather drawn out. Also, while I like when the main characters of a story are adults in their 30s as they are here, these characters acted a bit immature in some ways, especially Vanessa, that made then feel as if they should have been 5 to 10 years younger.
While I do have these critiques, I still enjoyed the book, it was an easy read and will be trying the next book in the series. Thank you to The Artist Agency and author Christine DePetrillo for giving me an advanced copy of this book to read and review.
14 years ago, Spencer Holland rescued Vanessa Hartley, his best friend’s little sister, from a terrible date on her Prom night. They have had an attraction and feelings for each other ever since but have never acted on it. On Vanessa’s part, she believes it is because Spencer would never see her as anything other than the sister to her 5 brothers. For Spencer, it is because his own family fell apart 14 years ago and he can’t risk loosing the Hartley family who have taken him in as one of their own in many ways. That is, until a chipped tooth lands Vanessa in Spencer’s dental chair and she finally decides to take a chance.
This is a cozy, small town, brother’s best friend, romance with some humor and very light spice. Both the leads are likable (though there were several times I wanted Spencer to just man up already) but Hunter, the 12 year old boy in need of responsible adults in his life that brings Spencer and Vanessa closer together, is by far my favorite character. The insta-family that develops between the 3 of them is lovely and the real heart of the story. The big, messy Hartley family also has it’s charms but the many brothers are repeatedly mentioned and listed in a way that felt more like they were being set up for their own books later in the series, rather than given any real personality in this story.
The book suffers a bit from uneven pacing. It feels like very little happens for the first quarter of the book, then a good deal happens until the third act which is rather drawn out. Also, while I like when the main characters of a story are adults in their 30s as they are here, these characters acted a bit immature in some ways, especially Vanessa, that made then feel as if they should have been 5 to 10 years younger.
While I do have these critiques, I still enjoyed the book, it was an easy read and will be trying the next book in the series. Thank you to The Artist Agency and author Christine DePetrillo for giving me an advanced copy of this book to read and review.
April 5, 2026
Spencer. SPENCER. I am not okay about this man. A sexy dentist should not be this powerful, and yet here we are. The quiet, steady, always-there kind of hero who doesn’t need to shout to be everything… yeah, that’s my kryptonite. And the way he’s been holding onto his feelings for YEARS?? Fourteen. Years. That’s not a slow burn, that’s a full-on emotional bonfire that had me pacing like a lunatic.
And the tension?? Absolutely feral. Every little look, every almost-touch, every moment where you know they’re both thinking the same thing but refusing to say it… I was screaming internally the entire time. The chemistry isn’t just chemistry, it’s lightning in a bottle. The kind that makes you feel a little unhinged and very invested.
Also can we talk about the brothers for a second because WOW. Five overprotective brothers circling like a pack of suspicious wolves?? The stakes felt so real. Every interaction had this delicious edge of “if they find out, it’s over,” and I ate that up with a spoon. Forbidden romance done RIGHT.
But what really got me was the heart underneath all the heat. This isn’t just about sneaking around and stolen moments, it’s about longing, history, and finally choosing what you’ve wanted all along. That ache of “what if” turning into “what now” hit so hard.
And when things finally happen??? Worth. Every. Second. Of. Waiting.
I devoured this book like it owed me money. It’s steamy, sweet, angsty in the best way, and wrapped in that cozy small-town vibe that makes everything feel just a little more intense and personal.
If you love:
• brother’s best friend tension that could snap at any second
• years of pining (the good, painful kind)
• a hero who’s equal parts soft and devastating
• and chemistry that practically hums off the page
…just go ahead and read this. Cancel your plans. Hydrate. Prepare to spiral.
And the tension?? Absolutely feral. Every little look, every almost-touch, every moment where you know they’re both thinking the same thing but refusing to say it… I was screaming internally the entire time. The chemistry isn’t just chemistry, it’s lightning in a bottle. The kind that makes you feel a little unhinged and very invested.
Also can we talk about the brothers for a second because WOW. Five overprotective brothers circling like a pack of suspicious wolves?? The stakes felt so real. Every interaction had this delicious edge of “if they find out, it’s over,” and I ate that up with a spoon. Forbidden romance done RIGHT.
But what really got me was the heart underneath all the heat. This isn’t just about sneaking around and stolen moments, it’s about longing, history, and finally choosing what you’ve wanted all along. That ache of “what if” turning into “what now” hit so hard.
And when things finally happen??? Worth. Every. Second. Of. Waiting.
I devoured this book like it owed me money. It’s steamy, sweet, angsty in the best way, and wrapped in that cozy small-town vibe that makes everything feel just a little more intense and personal.
If you love:
• brother’s best friend tension that could snap at any second
• years of pining (the good, painful kind)
• a hero who’s equal parts soft and devastating
• and chemistry that practically hums off the page
…just go ahead and read this. Cancel your plans. Hydrate. Prepare to spiral.
April 8, 2026
I love a brother’s best friend romance so when I saw this FMC has five brothers I figured there would be some good antics and this author did not disappoint. This book has all the best tropes like friends to lovers, brother's best friend, and small town romance. The MMC, Spencer, is so sweet and caring and all around such a golden retriever of a guy with a rough backstory that could have left him so much more bitter and cold. Instead he is really thoughtful about those around him and prioritizes family and the people he cares about. It was so enjoyable to read an MMC like Spencer, who is such a nice guy and wants to help those around him. Both of the main characters go through losses that connect them and complicate their history of secretly yearning for each other. Spencer is close with Vanessa's family and brothers and is concerned that he will jeopardize his relationship with them if he and Vanessa get together. Vanessa is trying to find where she fits in her family and as an artist while wanting to stay loyal and close to home. She is still figuring out how to show up as her adult self alongside her confident brothers in a place she grew up. With over protective brothers and a sweet family dynamic both of them don't want to mess up they decide to wait to reveal their interest for each other and sneak around behind her family’s backs - what could go wrong when there’s 5 brothers to potentially freak out?? haha I really enjoyed this book and the style of writing. It was an easy read while still having realistic drama, tragedies, spice, sweet acts of love, and hot moments of tension. Definitely recommend it if you're looking for a sweet and spicy small town romance!!
April 8, 2026
This is the first book in the Hartley’s Nest series, and I’m already hooked. It has all the cozy small town vibes with found family, brother’s best friend romance, and even a little chaos thanks to some raccoon antics. It was such a fun, feel-good read from start to finish
Vanessa has spent her whole life surrounded by her five overprotective brothers, always under their watchful eyes. For fourteen years, she’s secretly had a crush on Spencer, her brother’s best friend. What she doesn’t realize is that Spencer has been carrying the same feelings for just as long. Watching them both dance around those emotions without realizing the truth was equal parts sweet and frustrating in the best way.
Because Spencer is so deeply woven into the Hartley family, their relationship comes with high stakes. He is practically considered another brother, which makes crossing that line feel impossible. The secrecy, paired with the constant presence of her protective brothers, adds just the right amount of tension while still keeping the story light.
One of my favorite parts was the addition of Hunter, a student from Vanessa’s art class who is dealing with a difficult home life. The bond that forms between the three of them brings so much heart to the story. Their dynamic adds a layer of healing and warmth that really makes this book stand out.
Overall, this is a low-angst, comforting read that feels like a warm hug. Perfect if you’re looking for something sweet, heartfelt, and easy to get lost in.
Vanessa has spent her whole life surrounded by her five overprotective brothers, always under their watchful eyes. For fourteen years, she’s secretly had a crush on Spencer, her brother’s best friend. What she doesn’t realize is that Spencer has been carrying the same feelings for just as long. Watching them both dance around those emotions without realizing the truth was equal parts sweet and frustrating in the best way.
Because Spencer is so deeply woven into the Hartley family, their relationship comes with high stakes. He is practically considered another brother, which makes crossing that line feel impossible. The secrecy, paired with the constant presence of her protective brothers, adds just the right amount of tension while still keeping the story light.
One of my favorite parts was the addition of Hunter, a student from Vanessa’s art class who is dealing with a difficult home life. The bond that forms between the three of them brings so much heart to the story. Their dynamic adds a layer of healing and warmth that really makes this book stand out.
Overall, this is a low-angst, comforting read that feels like a warm hug. Perfect if you’re looking for something sweet, heartfelt, and easy to get lost in.
August 22, 2024
- Second chance
- Brother's best friend
- Friends to lovers
- Pining
- Raccoon hijinks
This is the first book in the new Hartley's Nest series and I know already I am going to love it! The series is set in a small town in Vermont where the Hartley family run a wildlife rescue. Vanessa, the only girl of 6, has been secretly in love with her brothers' friend, Spenser, since she was a teenager on a bad prom date. Spenser rescues her from a disastrous date (on the eve of his mother and brother's wakes). Until then, he never noticed Vanessa as a woman. But after losing the majority of his family, Spenser's father withdraws emotionally from everyone and Spenser becomes even closer than he was to the Hartley family. He can't do anything to mess that up, especially dating the overprotected sister of the family! So, he loves her in secret and from afar...
After a dental incident lands Vanessa in Spenser's dentist chair, she decides she is going to pursue him, especially since he seems to be giving her all the signs he's interested, too! But since neither one wants to incur the wrath of the brothers, they decide to wait a bit in their relationship before announcing to the brothers that they are together. You know, because that could never backfire!
This family is close to each other and a bit feral and I loved reading about them! I can't wait to see what the author has in store for the brothers!
- Brother's best friend
- Friends to lovers
- Pining
- Raccoon hijinks
This is the first book in the new Hartley's Nest series and I know already I am going to love it! The series is set in a small town in Vermont where the Hartley family run a wildlife rescue. Vanessa, the only girl of 6, has been secretly in love with her brothers' friend, Spenser, since she was a teenager on a bad prom date. Spenser rescues her from a disastrous date (on the eve of his mother and brother's wakes). Until then, he never noticed Vanessa as a woman. But after losing the majority of his family, Spenser's father withdraws emotionally from everyone and Spenser becomes even closer than he was to the Hartley family. He can't do anything to mess that up, especially dating the overprotected sister of the family! So, he loves her in secret and from afar...
After a dental incident lands Vanessa in Spenser's dentist chair, she decides she is going to pursue him, especially since he seems to be giving her all the signs he's interested, too! But since neither one wants to incur the wrath of the brothers, they decide to wait a bit in their relationship before announcing to the brothers that they are together. You know, because that could never backfire!
This family is close to each other and a bit feral and I loved reading about them! I can't wait to see what the author has in store for the brothers!
April 6, 2026
This was a wonderful book. Rescue the night is book one in the Hartley's Nest Romance series. I knew this was going to be a good book, when the blurb said, "Touching Spencer - even for a millisecond - did things to my body. Wild things I could barely control.
I knew I had to Deep dive in this book after that.
Oh boy am I ready for the rest of the family. The Hartley family is six siblings five boys one girl. The Hartley family also runs a wildlife rescue together. The girl being Vanessa is the overprotective one of her siblings, who also has a crush on her brother's best friend Spencer. Spencer saves Vanessa from her prom date in high school and ever since then she's had a crush on him. Now they're adults in their thirties Spencer is now a dentist and Vanessa is still Head Over heels for spencer. Vanessa feels Spencer sees her as the little sister of his best friend and nothing more when in reality he said over heels for her. There are times in the book where I want to scream at Spencer tell her. There's also times in the book where I want to scream at Vanessa quit being immature and just spit it out. Yet I feel like the author wrote it just perfect. I find this to be a very cozy, comfy, laid back read they just kind of makes you happy. Overall, I love the story I think it was absolutely beautiful I love the hea at the end. Thank you so much for the advance reader's copy I thought it was wonderful.
I knew I had to Deep dive in this book after that.
Oh boy am I ready for the rest of the family. The Hartley family is six siblings five boys one girl. The Hartley family also runs a wildlife rescue together. The girl being Vanessa is the overprotective one of her siblings, who also has a crush on her brother's best friend Spencer. Spencer saves Vanessa from her prom date in high school and ever since then she's had a crush on him. Now they're adults in their thirties Spencer is now a dentist and Vanessa is still Head Over heels for spencer. Vanessa feels Spencer sees her as the little sister of his best friend and nothing more when in reality he said over heels for her. There are times in the book where I want to scream at Spencer tell her. There's also times in the book where I want to scream at Vanessa quit being immature and just spit it out. Yet I feel like the author wrote it just perfect. I find this to be a very cozy, comfy, laid back read they just kind of makes you happy. Overall, I love the story I think it was absolutely beautiful I love the hea at the end. Thank you so much for the advance reader's copy I thought it was wonderful.
April 20, 2026
4.25*s
Spencer is such a good soul – steady, big-hearted, and quietly pining for Vanessa. And her for him – both having to ignore their attraction due to their mutual connections. They are so sweet once they get together and I love the way they complement each other. Spencer does have some scars from a past relationship that leaves him a little extra jumpy, and making a few bad choices, but it doesn’t take them long to figure themselves out.
And the reason they haven’t gone there before is Vanessa’s over-the-top protective brothers, who are a hoot and a half. (Often acting more like tweens than grown ups, so I’m definitely looking forward to meeting the partners willing to take them on.) The family dynamic tho is a draw. The way the Hartleys have drawn together over the years, standing together thru good times and bad, creating a refuge for themselves & others. Throw in an adorable kid that needs a little extra love & care, and I’m mush.
There’s so much that appealed to me – small town vibes, yes please. Brother’s best friend, oh yeah. Pining for each other for over a decade, the slowest of slow burns. DePetrillo is a new read for me and I enjoyed her feel good, low angst, sweet style. She nicely mixes sweetness, steam, & fun and I am ready to see where we go next.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Spencer is such a good soul – steady, big-hearted, and quietly pining for Vanessa. And her for him – both having to ignore their attraction due to their mutual connections. They are so sweet once they get together and I love the way they complement each other. Spencer does have some scars from a past relationship that leaves him a little extra jumpy, and making a few bad choices, but it doesn’t take them long to figure themselves out.
And the reason they haven’t gone there before is Vanessa’s over-the-top protective brothers, who are a hoot and a half. (Often acting more like tweens than grown ups, so I’m definitely looking forward to meeting the partners willing to take them on.) The family dynamic tho is a draw. The way the Hartleys have drawn together over the years, standing together thru good times and bad, creating a refuge for themselves & others. Throw in an adorable kid that needs a little extra love & care, and I’m mush.
There’s so much that appealed to me – small town vibes, yes please. Brother’s best friend, oh yeah. Pining for each other for over a decade, the slowest of slow burns. DePetrillo is a new read for me and I enjoyed her feel good, low angst, sweet style. She nicely mixes sweetness, steam, & fun and I am ready to see where we go next.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
April 9, 2026
*4,5 stars*
This was my first read by the author and definitely won't be my last one as I thoroughly enjoyed this story from beginning until end. It was such a perfect mixture where I just loved what the story entailed. Small town romance enrolled with animal shelter - rescue was something I loved to read about but also the rollercoaster of emotions that the author had me, that had me hoping for that happy ending. There were a lot of moments that had me laughing out loud but also crying silent tears as it was emotional which made the story very relatable. Can't wait to see what's next in store for this series.
Spencer & Vanessa have known each other for years and have been through a lot of tragedy and grief that has put them on their path. They've silently had a crush on each other but as Vanessa's brothers are very overbearing, Spencer has kept his distance. Both have jobs they love but Vanessa always felt a bit inadequate within her family, even though what she does is a part of her. After everything they've been through, there's a lot of things that have happened but now seems the right time for Vanessa to take her chance with Spencer. As their relationship continues to grow, it's getting harder to keep it a secret. Things are changing fast and a lot of things are headed their way. Will love find its way in the end?...
This was my first read by the author and definitely won't be my last one as I thoroughly enjoyed this story from beginning until end. It was such a perfect mixture where I just loved what the story entailed. Small town romance enrolled with animal shelter - rescue was something I loved to read about but also the rollercoaster of emotions that the author had me, that had me hoping for that happy ending. There were a lot of moments that had me laughing out loud but also crying silent tears as it was emotional which made the story very relatable. Can't wait to see what's next in store for this series.
Spencer & Vanessa have known each other for years and have been through a lot of tragedy and grief that has put them on their path. They've silently had a crush on each other but as Vanessa's brothers are very overbearing, Spencer has kept his distance. Both have jobs they love but Vanessa always felt a bit inadequate within her family, even though what she does is a part of her. After everything they've been through, there's a lot of things that have happened but now seems the right time for Vanessa to take her chance with Spencer. As their relationship continues to grow, it's getting harder to keep it a secret. Things are changing fast and a lot of things are headed their way. Will love find its way in the end?...
April 7, 2026
4.5 Stars ⭐️
I absolutely loved Rescue The Night!! Such a sweet story that made me shed the happy tears (a few times!)
This is book #1 of the Hartley's Nest Series and I'm hooked! With Small Town feels, found family, brother's-best-friend love and raccoon hijinxs ... it was a wonderful read from start to finish ♥️
Vanessa had always been under the watchful eyes of her 5 brothers being the only sister. For 14 years she has had a crush on her brother's best friend, Spencer, and little did she know Spencer shared the same feelings. As this sweet pair try to navigate their relationship in secret, away from the chaotic Hartley family - in enters Hunter, a sweet 12 year old from Vanessa' art class who has a troublesome home life and the 3 become quite the trio, finding fun and healing with each other.
I laughed, cried and had all the warm fuzzy feelings that a good romance should deliver!
I can't wait to see where this series takes us and I'm routing for all the brothers to find love sweet love of their own in the books to follow 🥰
Christine DePetrillo did a beautiful job bringing all the characters to life in this story and I'm so grateful to her and The Author Agency for this ARC ❤️
I absolutely loved Rescue The Night!! Such a sweet story that made me shed the happy tears (a few times!)
This is book #1 of the Hartley's Nest Series and I'm hooked! With Small Town feels, found family, brother's-best-friend love and raccoon hijinxs ... it was a wonderful read from start to finish ♥️
Vanessa had always been under the watchful eyes of her 5 brothers being the only sister. For 14 years she has had a crush on her brother's best friend, Spencer, and little did she know Spencer shared the same feelings. As this sweet pair try to navigate their relationship in secret, away from the chaotic Hartley family - in enters Hunter, a sweet 12 year old from Vanessa' art class who has a troublesome home life and the 3 become quite the trio, finding fun and healing with each other.
I laughed, cried and had all the warm fuzzy feelings that a good romance should deliver!
I can't wait to see where this series takes us and I'm routing for all the brothers to find love sweet love of their own in the books to follow 🥰
Christine DePetrillo did a beautiful job bringing all the characters to life in this story and I'm so grateful to her and The Author Agency for this ARC ❤️
April 2, 2026
A low angst, light drama contemporary romance filled with family and small town feels.
Vanessa Hartley has had a crush on Spencer Holland just as long as he's had on her. Fourteen years to be exact. Spencer is her brother's best friend, so he's close to her family, practically her sixth brother, not that she thinks about him in that manner at all, but he's super close to the Hartley family. Neither of them actually realize that the other has a crush on the other, which is sort of adorable, especially realizing there are a lot of Hartley brothers who could have caught on to their attraction to each other. The brothers were sometimes a bit much in their over protectiveness, but it also made the plot as far as keeping the secret and the attraction as just a crush instead of pursuing it for fourteen years.
This was a low angst read, a nice palette cleanser for me, especially after some of the dark suspense books I've read recently. A lot of my favorite parts were filled with Hunter, a twelve year old boy they took under their wings in a big brother program.
Vanessa Hartley has had a crush on Spencer Holland just as long as he's had on her. Fourteen years to be exact. Spencer is her brother's best friend, so he's close to her family, practically her sixth brother, not that she thinks about him in that manner at all, but he's super close to the Hartley family. Neither of them actually realize that the other has a crush on the other, which is sort of adorable, especially realizing there are a lot of Hartley brothers who could have caught on to their attraction to each other. The brothers were sometimes a bit much in their over protectiveness, but it also made the plot as far as keeping the secret and the attraction as just a crush instead of pursuing it for fourteen years.
This was a low angst read, a nice palette cleanser for me, especially after some of the dark suspense books I've read recently. A lot of my favorite parts were filled with Hunter, a twelve year old boy they took under their wings in a big brother program.
April 6, 2026
I loved this steamy, brother’s best friend romance with found family and all the emotional goodness that comes with it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vanessa Hartley is the only girl out of 6 siblings, (yes 6) who, along with their mother, run Hartley’s Nest, a sanctuary for animals. She’s an artist that loves to work with kids, a nature lover and she’s had a thing for her brother’s best friend since she was 18 and he rescued her from her disastrous senior prom date. Spencer Holland is an honorary member of the Hartley family, loyal to his best friend and local hottie dentist. A chipped tooth, an impromptu meet at a children’s play and 14 years of pent up of yearning leads to perfectly saucy moments 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Overall the emotional tug of finding your own family when yours is broken is 10/10. Along with the angst of wanting someone that you shouldn’t, throw in a runaway raccoon, a trouble making parent and a young boy who just needs someone to look after him and you’ve got the perfect combination for a great read.
Vanessa Hartley is the only girl out of 6 siblings, (yes 6) who, along with their mother, run Hartley’s Nest, a sanctuary for animals. She’s an artist that loves to work with kids, a nature lover and she’s had a thing for her brother’s best friend since she was 18 and he rescued her from her disastrous senior prom date. Spencer Holland is an honorary member of the Hartley family, loyal to his best friend and local hottie dentist. A chipped tooth, an impromptu meet at a children’s play and 14 years of pent up of yearning leads to perfectly saucy moments 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Overall the emotional tug of finding your own family when yours is broken is 10/10. Along with the angst of wanting someone that you shouldn’t, throw in a runaway raccoon, a trouble making parent and a young boy who just needs someone to look after him and you’ve got the perfect combination for a great read.
April 12, 2026
Vanessa is part of a close and loving family which includes five brothers who try to shelter her the best way they can. She has had feelings for Spenser for years however his close relationship to her brothers and her family are part of the reasons that she has never acted on her feelings for him. Years later when she realizes he feels the same a secret relationship begins which brings its own set of complications.
Spenser has had feelings for Vanessa for years however due to his tragic past her family has also become his family and he doesn’t want to do anything to change that. Although they have only recently given in to their feelings this is a slow burn that has been developing for years and was always the way meant to be.
This is a heartwarming story about family that includes entertaining interactions, romance and all the feels. The secret romance adds another aspect to the story as well as the challenges that one of Vanessa’s students was going through which only made their relationship stronger.
Spenser has had feelings for Vanessa for years however due to his tragic past her family has also become his family and he doesn’t want to do anything to change that. Although they have only recently given in to their feelings this is a slow burn that has been developing for years and was always the way meant to be.
This is a heartwarming story about family that includes entertaining interactions, romance and all the feels. The secret romance adds another aspect to the story as well as the challenges that one of Vanessa’s students was going through which only made their relationship stronger.
April 6, 2026
A love at first sight with threats to end your life, all rolled into one. A forbidden second chance romance between Vanessa and Spencer. Friends that become chosen family. I enjoyed reading this book. Excited to see where the story goes with the 5 Hartley boys and their mom...maybe a budding romance of her own.- Amanda
This is a great first book in a new series by Christine DePetrillo and I really enjoyed it.
I have never read any of Christine's books before and I will definately be reading more from her.
Rescue The Night is a brother's best friend's romance.
Vanessa has had a crush on Her brothers best friend Spencer for a very long time spanning years of wanting and yearning.
Spencer is dentist and he also has had a crush on Vanessa but nothing has ever happened between them...until it does..
Which means it is forbidden because of the brother and so secrecy it is..
This is a fun and emotional story and it will be interesting to discover what the other Hartley's stories will be,because those 5 brothers are very protective so I wonder if they will be just as defending with the woman they will fall in love with.
Fantastic book.- Cat W.
This is a great first book in a new series by Christine DePetrillo and I really enjoyed it.
I have never read any of Christine's books before and I will definately be reading more from her.
Rescue The Night is a brother's best friend's romance.
Vanessa has had a crush on Her brothers best friend Spencer for a very long time spanning years of wanting and yearning.
Spencer is dentist and he also has had a crush on Vanessa but nothing has ever happened between them...until it does..
Which means it is forbidden because of the brother and so secrecy it is..
This is a fun and emotional story and it will be interesting to discover what the other Hartley's stories will be,because those 5 brothers are very protective so I wonder if they will be just as defending with the woman they will fall in love with.
Fantastic book.- Cat W.
April 9, 2026
⭐️ 5/5
🔥 5/5
🌶️ 5/5
💧 5/5
Hidden Feelings is an emotional and engaging romance built on years of unresolved love, strong chemistry, and long-term pining.
Vanessa’s feelings for Spencer span over a decade, beginning with a pivotal moment during prom night. That history creates a strong emotional foundation that carries throughout the story.
The brother’s best friend dynamic adds tension, while the contrast between Spencer being a dentist and Vanessa hating dentists brings a lighter, more playful element.
The chemistry between them is one of the standout aspects of the story. Their interactions feel charged with emotion, making it difficult to put the book down.
Overall, this was a compelling romance that balances emotional depth with strong character dynamics, delivering a satisfying and immersive reading experience.
Having experienced loss myself, the way grief was portrayed in this story felt authentic and added another layer to my connection with the characters.
🔥 5/5
🌶️ 5/5
💧 5/5
Hidden Feelings is an emotional and engaging romance built on years of unresolved love, strong chemistry, and long-term pining.
Vanessa’s feelings for Spencer span over a decade, beginning with a pivotal moment during prom night. That history creates a strong emotional foundation that carries throughout the story.
The brother’s best friend dynamic adds tension, while the contrast between Spencer being a dentist and Vanessa hating dentists brings a lighter, more playful element.
The chemistry between them is one of the standout aspects of the story. Their interactions feel charged with emotion, making it difficult to put the book down.
Overall, this was a compelling romance that balances emotional depth with strong character dynamics, delivering a satisfying and immersive reading experience.
Having experienced loss myself, the way grief was portrayed in this story felt authentic and added another layer to my connection with the characters.
April 9, 2026
I enjoyed reading this one! It had some of my favorite tropes:
Brother’s best friend
Small town
Found family
Friends to lovers
Brother’s best friend is my all time favorite trope and this book she has FIVE brothers and he is close to each of them. 😁 for over 10 years Spencer and Vanessa put their secret feelings for each other aside. Both worried what might happen if things don’t work out or affect the relationships with her family. But, it is well written early on that their characters are truly meant to be together. Their story contains sweet moments and of course the spicy moments, some slightly suspenseful moments and some funny moments. Add in some animal shenanigans, someone out to ruin her family’s wildlife rehab center, someone who just needed people to be there for them, a family (both blood and chosen) who would go to the ends of the earth for each other…it all makes it a well rounded story that keeps you hooked. ❤️
Brother’s best friend
Small town
Found family
Friends to lovers
Brother’s best friend is my all time favorite trope and this book she has FIVE brothers and he is close to each of them. 😁 for over 10 years Spencer and Vanessa put their secret feelings for each other aside. Both worried what might happen if things don’t work out or affect the relationships with her family. But, it is well written early on that their characters are truly meant to be together. Their story contains sweet moments and of course the spicy moments, some slightly suspenseful moments and some funny moments. Add in some animal shenanigans, someone out to ruin her family’s wildlife rehab center, someone who just needed people to be there for them, a family (both blood and chosen) who would go to the ends of the earth for each other…it all makes it a well rounded story that keeps you hooked. ❤️
April 6, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ Spencer and Vanessa have known each other forever since he is best friends with her brothers. He’s had a crush on her for 14 years and she’s had a crush on him as well, but neither acted on it. He didn’t want to lose his found family of her brothers and she couldn’t always tell if he was interested. Once they finally give into the attraction, the sparks fly and they realize what a perfect match they are. There are many various obstacles in their relationship, such as a child in their community who needs a stable family and her brother‘s accepting the relationship. There’s also a little suspense with unusual things that are going on at their family sanctuary. The soulmate match between Spencer and Vanessa is delightful to read and the family interactions are fabulous as well. It’s also lovely to watch some other characters come back into the picture.
April 7, 2026
Rescue the Night delivers exactly what it promises: a steamy, small-town romance packed with tension, longing, and that irresistible brother’s-best-friend trope. The chemistry between the heroine and Spencer is immediate and intense—honestly, the opening alone hooks you with that mix of nerves and desire. Spencer as the charming, slightly off-limits dentist is a fun twist, and his history with the heroine adds a layer of emotional depth that keeps things from feeling too surface-level. One of the strongest elements here is the slow-burn tension. You feel that buildup. Every glance, every almost-moment carries weight, and it makes the eventual romantic progression satisfying. The protective brothers add humor and stakes, even if they lean a bit into the “over-the-top” territory at times. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. .
April 8, 2026
This is the first in a new series and this is Spencer and Vanessa’s story.
Spencer is a sweet, and caring dentist, who had a tough upbringing, while Vanessa is an artist, and runs alongside her mom, Hartley’s Nest, an animal sanctuary, and she has five overprotective brother’s, who are Spencer’s nest friends. Vanessa has hidden her feeling for Spencer for the past 14-years, but it is not so easy to do now as it used to be.
This is a well written easy to read story, withy found family, friendships, emotions, tension, chaos, loyalty, drama, friends / lovers, humour, witty banter, challenges, intrigue, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and sweet, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from these talented authors’ whose work I highly recommend.
Spencer is a sweet, and caring dentist, who had a tough upbringing, while Vanessa is an artist, and runs alongside her mom, Hartley’s Nest, an animal sanctuary, and she has five overprotective brother’s, who are Spencer’s nest friends. Vanessa has hidden her feeling for Spencer for the past 14-years, but it is not so easy to do now as it used to be.
This is a well written easy to read story, withy found family, friendships, emotions, tension, chaos, loyalty, drama, friends / lovers, humour, witty banter, challenges, intrigue, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and sweet, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from these talented authors’ whose work I highly recommend.
April 9, 2026
This is a great first book in a new series by Christine DePetrillo and I really enjoyed it.
I have never read any of Christine's books before and I will definately be reading more from her.
Rescue The Night is a brother's best friend's romance.
Vanessa has had a crush on Her brothers best friend Spencer for a very long time spanning years of wanting and yearning.
Spencer is dentist and he also has had a crush on Vanessa but nothing has ever happened between them...until it does..
Which means it is forbidden because of the brother and so secrecy it is..
This is a fun and emotional story and it will be interesting to discover what the other Hartley's stories will be,because those 5 brothers are very protective so I wonder if they will be just as defending with the woman they will fall in love with.
Fantastic book.
I have never read any of Christine's books before and I will definately be reading more from her.
Rescue The Night is a brother's best friend's romance.
Vanessa has had a crush on Her brothers best friend Spencer for a very long time spanning years of wanting and yearning.
Spencer is dentist and he also has had a crush on Vanessa but nothing has ever happened between them...until it does..
Which means it is forbidden because of the brother and so secrecy it is..
This is a fun and emotional story and it will be interesting to discover what the other Hartley's stories will be,because those 5 brothers are very protective so I wonder if they will be just as defending with the woman they will fall in love with.
Fantastic book.
April 6, 2026
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC. This review and thoughts are mine alone.*
Rating: 4⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Spencer and Vanessa have been circling each other since he saved her from a terrible prom date years ago.
They both have hidden feelings for each other, with reasons for keeping their feelings to themselves.
Spencer feels like revealing his feelings will tarnish his relationship with her family, who took him in after his family fell apart. Meanwhile she feels like he would never see her in that way.
The two of them have circled each other for a while and everything kind of takes hold when he fixes her tooth.
I did love Hunter. He was so cute and needed responsible people in his life to care for him.
I didn’t love the pacing. It felt to fly through some parts where I’d want more information, but dragged through monotonous information.
Rating: 4⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Spencer and Vanessa have been circling each other since he saved her from a terrible prom date years ago.
They both have hidden feelings for each other, with reasons for keeping their feelings to themselves.
Spencer feels like revealing his feelings will tarnish his relationship with her family, who took him in after his family fell apart. Meanwhile she feels like he would never see her in that way.
The two of them have circled each other for a while and everything kind of takes hold when he fixes her tooth.
I did love Hunter. He was so cute and needed responsible people in his life to care for him.
I didn’t love the pacing. It felt to fly through some parts where I’d want more information, but dragged through monotonous information.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2026
Small-town romance + brother’s best friend = immediate tension 😮🔥
This story follows Vanessa, who’s been secretly in love with her brother’s best friend, Spencer (the very swoony small-town dentist), for years. When those buried feelings start bubbling to the surface, the slow-burn tension finally gets the push it needs—and it’s so worth the wait. 
I loved the protective family dynamic (five brothers!!), the cozy small-town vibe, and the mix of humor with steamy moments. Spencer is the perfect blend of sweet and restrained, while Vanessa’s determination to go after what she wants makes their chemistry feel real and earned. 
If you’re into friends-to-lovers, forbidden romance, and slow-burn tension with spice, this one will hit the spot.
This story follows Vanessa, who’s been secretly in love with her brother’s best friend, Spencer (the very swoony small-town dentist), for years. When those buried feelings start bubbling to the surface, the slow-burn tension finally gets the push it needs—and it’s so worth the wait. 
I loved the protective family dynamic (five brothers!!), the cozy small-town vibe, and the mix of humor with steamy moments. Spencer is the perfect blend of sweet and restrained, while Vanessa’s determination to go after what she wants makes their chemistry feel real and earned. 
If you’re into friends-to-lovers, forbidden romance, and slow-burn tension with spice, this one will hit the spot.
April 8, 2026
Thank you for the arc The Author Agency.
While I enjoyed the story overall I didn't feel connected to it. I read it but it didn't grip me and draw me in. I could put it down and pick it up whenever I felt like it. I'm not sure why there just felt like something was missing for me to connect with.
That said I did enjoy the tropes in the story - brothers best friend, small town romance and found family. I liked the story and it was readable.
The chapters varied between really short (3-5 mins) or long. (20 mins) The story was relatively easy to read.
The story definitely lays the foundations as the start of a series. While I wouldn't necessarily be in a rush to read the series I may give the next book a read and see if I connect with it more.
While I enjoyed the story overall I didn't feel connected to it. I read it but it didn't grip me and draw me in. I could put it down and pick it up whenever I felt like it. I'm not sure why there just felt like something was missing for me to connect with.
That said I did enjoy the tropes in the story - brothers best friend, small town romance and found family. I liked the story and it was readable.
The chapters varied between really short (3-5 mins) or long. (20 mins) The story was relatively easy to read.
The story definitely lays the foundations as the start of a series. While I wouldn't necessarily be in a rush to read the series I may give the next book a read and see if I connect with it more.
April 8, 2026
3.5 stars, rounded up! Both MMCs have had secret feelings for each other for the past 14yrs, but neither will admit it, and the FMC has 5 overbearing, protective brothers scaring everyone off. I love a brothers best friend trope, but the multiple overprotective brother thing was a bit too much for me here. Let a woman breathe lol. Most of the sibling talk felt like groundwork for their future books, so it will probably end up a pretty good interconnected series. I did like Spencer and the small-town, found family aspect of this book. It was low angst, slow burn, so if you're looking for something that you can pick up and put down without being overly invested, this is a nice light read for that. Thank you so much to
April 12, 2026
This one just didn’t work for me.
I didn’t really like either of the main characters, Spencer or Vanessa. I tried to connect with them but something just didn’t click, so it made the whole story hard to enjoy. The storyline also felt kind of weird and I never fully got into it. The relationship especially had me like… what? I couldn’t really feel or understand the development at all.
I did like Vanessa’s family dynamics though, those parts felt more natural. And I really liked how Vanessa and Spencer treated Hunter, that was actually really sweet.
Overall just not for me, but I can see it working for others.
Thank you The Author Agency & Christine DePetrillo for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I didn’t really like either of the main characters, Spencer or Vanessa. I tried to connect with them but something just didn’t click, so it made the whole story hard to enjoy. The storyline also felt kind of weird and I never fully got into it. The relationship especially had me like… what? I couldn’t really feel or understand the development at all.
I did like Vanessa’s family dynamics though, those parts felt more natural. And I really liked how Vanessa and Spencer treated Hunter, that was actually really sweet.
Overall just not for me, but I can see it working for others.
Thank you The Author Agency & Christine DePetrillo for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 4, 2026
I read this book as an advanced reading copy
Rescue the Night is the first book in the Hartley Series. It’s a contemporary romance with a great small town romance and a friends-to-lovers trope. It follows the love story between Vanessa (an artist at her family’s wildlife rehabilitation center) and Spencer (a dentist and her brother’s best friend). The dynamics between the two main characters are wonderful to see and the author does a great job in portraying their love. You’ll quickly fall in love with all of the characters in this book. I would definitely recommend this book to my contemporary romance loving friends!
Rescue the Night is the first book in the Hartley Series. It’s a contemporary romance with a great small town romance and a friends-to-lovers trope. It follows the love story between Vanessa (an artist at her family’s wildlife rehabilitation center) and Spencer (a dentist and her brother’s best friend). The dynamics between the two main characters are wonderful to see and the author does a great job in portraying their love. You’ll quickly fall in love with all of the characters in this book. I would definitely recommend this book to my contemporary romance loving friends!
April 5, 2026
Rating: 4.5 stars
If you love second-chance romance, brothers best friend, friends to lovers this book is perfect for you.
This is book 1 in the Hartley's Nest series, this book follows Vanessa who is the only girl out of the 6 Hartley siblings and who has been secretly in love with our MMC Spencer (her brothers best friend).
Spencer saved Vanessa from a bad prom date when she was younger, until that point he hadn't really noticed her. After his own family losses and emotional withdrawal he grows closer to the Hartley family and doesn't want to mess up his relationship with them especially as the brothers are overprotective of Vanessa....so he loves her from afar in secret.
I loved seeing their story grow, can't wait for more books in this series.
Thank you Christine DePetrillo and The Author Agency for the ARC
If you love second-chance romance, brothers best friend, friends to lovers this book is perfect for you.
This is book 1 in the Hartley's Nest series, this book follows Vanessa who is the only girl out of the 6 Hartley siblings and who has been secretly in love with our MMC Spencer (her brothers best friend).
Spencer saved Vanessa from a bad prom date when she was younger, until that point he hadn't really noticed her. After his own family losses and emotional withdrawal he grows closer to the Hartley family and doesn't want to mess up his relationship with them especially as the brothers are overprotective of Vanessa....so he loves her from afar in secret.
I loved seeing their story grow, can't wait for more books in this series.
Thank you Christine DePetrillo and The Author Agency for the ARC
April 7, 2026
Thank you Christine DePetrillo and The Author Agency for this ARC; this thoughts are all my own.
This book has some of my favourite tropes; small town, & Brother's BFF; I loved certain aspects of the plot line. Hunter was a sweet kid and I'm so happy how his life worked out. Spencer and Vanessa were sweet and seemingly meant for each other. Unfortunately, I feel like their love was fast tracked and I missed the angst. I am happy how their story played out, I just had pictured their story to get there a little different.
However, I love the side characters and the inner workings of their relationships. I am curious about their mom's relationship 👀
This book has some of my favourite tropes; small town, & Brother's BFF; I loved certain aspects of the plot line. Hunter was a sweet kid and I'm so happy how his life worked out. Spencer and Vanessa were sweet and seemingly meant for each other. Unfortunately, I feel like their love was fast tracked and I missed the angst. I am happy how their story played out, I just had pictured their story to get there a little different.
However, I love the side characters and the inner workings of their relationships. I am curious about their mom's relationship 👀
April 8, 2026
This was a sweet one 🥰 gotta love the brother best friend and small town vibes, always! I adore the pet rescue situation, just so sweet!
Vanessa has loved Spencer for years tragedies uniting them as family and mutual understanding. But also keep them further apart from those romantic feelings they both long for. Until they both give it to it and the slowish burn is worth it.
Love 5 older protective brothers and the aspect of dealing with grief. The story line with Hunter was fantastic as well, just a boy that needs a bunch of love and Vanessa and Spencer step up to the challenge 🥰 just a sweet cozy book!
April 8, 2026
This was so cute! My first by the author and I can't wait for the rest of the series. Spencer and Vanessa were perfect in this small town + brothers best friend! They have known each other since they were kids and both had secret feelings for the other. Spencer didn't have the best of times growing up so he was essentially part of the family. I just loved the way their story unfolded. She has 5 brothers, very over protective brothers. So you can probably imagine how things go once they find out about sister and their family friend. The side characters were great, the spice was spicing. I think the rest of the series will be just as great!
April 12, 2026
I just finished this book 10 minutes ago so bear with me.
I'm a sucker for a brother's best friend trope... Add in that crushing on each other for 14 years...yes, I said 14!
I'll keep this review simple.
If you like any of these in your romance novels....then this book is for you!
*brother's best friend
*friends to lovers
*it's always been you
*found family
*fostering a kid
*huge family
*small town
The artist and the dentist. Friends since childhood. The family business which is a wildlife rescue!! And again I say, 14 years of pining for each other without either one knowing.
Yeah....this one has it all!
Can't wait to read the rest of the series!!
I'm a sucker for a brother's best friend trope... Add in that crushing on each other for 14 years...yes, I said 14!
I'll keep this review simple.
If you like any of these in your romance novels....then this book is for you!
*brother's best friend
*friends to lovers
*it's always been you
*found family
*fostering a kid
*huge family
*small town
The artist and the dentist. Friends since childhood. The family business which is a wildlife rescue!! And again I say, 14 years of pining for each other without either one knowing.
Yeah....this one has it all!
Can't wait to read the rest of the series!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews