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Isle of Hope #1
The Last Time
Call my high school crush to repair my childhood vacation home? Yes, please.
Although, I haven't seen him in almost a decade. He's probably married, bald, and sporting a beer belly.
Spoiler alert: He's not bald!
He's somehow even more alluring now than he was when I was seventeen. Only now, he's a mean/grumpy mess of a man with a three old daughter that he's struggling to take care of on his own.
Even with his grunts and sharp words, I'm still powerless to stop myself from crushing on him all over again.
When I learn about the tragedy in his life, I even start to sympathize with him.
As the summer progresses, we start to get to know each other. I see some of the man I used to know come back.
Things heat up between us. We can no longer deny what has developed.
Then I discover his big secret. The one that's been tearing him up on the inside, keeping him from moving on and finding peace with his past.
That was when everything took a turn, and I'm not sure if we'll ever recover.
Although, I haven't seen him in almost a decade. He's probably married, bald, and sporting a beer belly.
Spoiler alert: He's not bald!
He's somehow even more alluring now than he was when I was seventeen. Only now, he's a mean/grumpy mess of a man with a three old daughter that he's struggling to take care of on his own.
Even with his grunts and sharp words, I'm still powerless to stop myself from crushing on him all over again.
When I learn about the tragedy in his life, I even start to sympathize with him.
As the summer progresses, we start to get to know each other. I see some of the man I used to know come back.
Things heat up between us. We can no longer deny what has developed.
Then I discover his big secret. The one that's been tearing him up on the inside, keeping him from moving on and finding peace with his past.
That was when everything took a turn, and I'm not sure if we'll ever recover.
Unknown Binding
First published April 12, 2024
282 people are currently reading
996 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Baker
16 books262 followersAuthor of spicy romance novels! Lover of dogs, wine, and coffee. Loves to write books that pull at your heartstrings but never leave out the dirty parts!
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Website→www.nicolebakerauthor.com
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Find me!
Website→www.nicolebakerauthor.com
Newsletter→https://www.nicolebakerauthor.com/con...
Instagram→@nicolebaker_author
Facebook→nicolebakerauthor
TikTok→ @authornicolebaker
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
April 10, 2024
I loved charlotte and Asher's story. They had great chemistry and I loved how well they complemented each other.
I absolutely loved seeing Asher's walls drop and seeing them fall so hard for one another.
And the way they came together in the end was perfect.
Although I kind of figured out the plot twist before hand I never expected the actual reveal of who. Which made everything make more sense. Iykyk.
I can't wait to read the rest of this series.
I absolutely loved seeing Asher's walls drop and seeing them fall so hard for one another.
And the way they came together in the end was perfect.
Although I kind of figured out the plot twist before hand I never expected the actual reveal of who. Which made everything make more sense. Iykyk.
I can't wait to read the rest of this series.
April 15, 2024
Childhood Crush, Single Dad, Friends Older Brother.
While I did enjoy this and have liked other books from this author, this one did leave a bit of a sour taste in my mouth during a couple parts. I loved the banter and flirting between the FMC & MMC. And he takes care of her when she is sick. One of my favorite micro tropes.
However, his hot headed and mean outbursts were a hell no for me. I know he was going through his own stuff and was sensitive to it all but sheesh. Put down the red flag and pick that green one back up. I am all for the angst, the conflict, the 3rd act break up and then the reunion but it was out of character in my opinion.
There was some cringey dialogue and a couple little things that weren't for me but in general it was a cute read and a sweet HEA.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
While I did enjoy this and have liked other books from this author, this one did leave a bit of a sour taste in my mouth during a couple parts. I loved the banter and flirting between the FMC & MMC. And he takes care of her when she is sick. One of my favorite micro tropes.
However, his hot headed and mean outbursts were a hell no for me. I know he was going through his own stuff and was sensitive to it all but sheesh. Put down the red flag and pick that green one back up. I am all for the angst, the conflict, the 3rd act break up and then the reunion but it was out of character in my opinion.
There was some cringey dialogue and a couple little things that weren't for me but in general it was a cute read and a sweet HEA.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
April 16, 2024
Good Book
The Last Time is a small town romance with a dirty side that sucked me right in. Sweet Charlotte who goes back to her childhood vacation home where she gets so much more then she would have ever dreamed. Then you have Asher, her best friends older brother and teen crush all grown up, now a brooding single father of an adorable little girl. Together they repair so much more then just an old house. Nicole did a great job on creating characters that come together so well and bring this story to life making it hard to put down as you anticipate what is going to happen next. Charlotte and Asher’s story bringing together some of my favorite tropes, a small town romance with a hot single dad who is her best friend’s older brother, who brings out her naughty side 🥵
The Last Time is a small town romance with a dirty side that sucked me right in. Sweet Charlotte who goes back to her childhood vacation home where she gets so much more then she would have ever dreamed. Then you have Asher, her best friends older brother and teen crush all grown up, now a brooding single father of an adorable little girl. Together they repair so much more then just an old house. Nicole did a great job on creating characters that come together so well and bring this story to life making it hard to put down as you anticipate what is going to happen next. Charlotte and Asher’s story bringing together some of my favorite tropes, a small town romance with a hot single dad who is her best friend’s older brother, who brings out her naughty side 🥵
March 26, 2024
Charlotte and Asher’s story is such a beautiful, sweet, full circle experience.
Charlotte hasn’t been in town for ten years but when she is gifted her families vacation home she heads back not knowing what to expect.
Asher has been through a lot in the ten years Charlotte has been gone and has secrets buried deep. He’s better at holding people at arms length than sharing what’s causing him to be so grumpy.
As they spend time together fixing up Charlotte’s childhood vacation home they realize there’s an intense chemistry between them that continues to grow despite their telling themselves it won’t work for them.
I loved seeing Asher come live being around Charlotte and how their relationship evolved into something neither of them could deny. The magnetic pull between the two of them was incredible.
I loved the support of everyone when the truth finally came out and how Asher handled things with Charlotte.
I do wish there was more at the end but overall loved the story and the characters.
Charlotte hasn’t been in town for ten years but when she is gifted her families vacation home she heads back not knowing what to expect.
Asher has been through a lot in the ten years Charlotte has been gone and has secrets buried deep. He’s better at holding people at arms length than sharing what’s causing him to be so grumpy.
As they spend time together fixing up Charlotte’s childhood vacation home they realize there’s an intense chemistry between them that continues to grow despite their telling themselves it won’t work for them.
I loved seeing Asher come live being around Charlotte and how their relationship evolved into something neither of them could deny. The magnetic pull between the two of them was incredible.
I loved the support of everyone when the truth finally came out and how Asher handled things with Charlotte.
I do wish there was more at the end but overall loved the story and the characters.
August 26, 2024
This storyline was lovely but the book needs a serious editing overhaul.
I loved Charlotte and Asher’s storyline. They were so cute together and little Brielle was a great addition to their story.
I also really like that we get to see Josh and Layla’s story next. I’m glad there were little glimpses into their story in this book. I always am a fan of series that involve friend groups.
My one hang up with this book is the spelling and grammatical errors, the sometimes choppy formatting and unnatural flow of the writing hindered the book’s overall rating. A few examples of this off the top of my head: the use of “offer” instead of “over”, or “anything” instead of “alluring” and switching to third person narration in a first person book.
The storyline is wonderful and the writing style itself is great, the author just needs a professional editor and some beta readers.
Storyline 4.5/5
Book 3/5
Spice 3/5
I loved Charlotte and Asher’s storyline. They were so cute together and little Brielle was a great addition to their story.
I also really like that we get to see Josh and Layla’s story next. I’m glad there were little glimpses into their story in this book. I always am a fan of series that involve friend groups.
My one hang up with this book is the spelling and grammatical errors, the sometimes choppy formatting and unnatural flow of the writing hindered the book’s overall rating. A few examples of this off the top of my head: the use of “offer” instead of “over”, or “anything” instead of “alluring” and switching to third person narration in a first person book.
The storyline is wonderful and the writing style itself is great, the author just needs a professional editor and some beta readers.
Storyline 4.5/5
Book 3/5
Spice 3/5
December 7, 2024
2.5
This started out really good, but then the dialogue became so cringy between them.
MILD SPOILER
What made me dnf at 42% was the first “kind of”sex scene. Besides some cringy flirting, there’s nothing really going on but he drops everything to take care of her while she’s really sick. When she starts to feel better, she gives him a bj to thank him. It was so out of character and there was something kind of gross about it to me after being so sick. She says something like “she couldn’t give him her germs and kiss him”, so she drops to her knees instead. It was just a complete turnoff to me. It read like some dream porn sequence.
This started out really good, but then the dialogue became so cringy between them.
MILD SPOILER
What made me dnf at 42% was the first “kind of”sex scene. Besides some cringy flirting, there’s nothing really going on but he drops everything to take care of her while she’s really sick. When she starts to feel better, she gives him a bj to thank him. It was so out of character and there was something kind of gross about it to me after being so sick. She says something like “she couldn’t give him her germs and kiss him”, so she drops to her knees instead. It was just a complete turnoff to me. It read like some dream porn sequence.
July 22, 2024
cute story, bad writing
I wanted to like this and the premise is a tale as old as time. I just think the writing was not it at all, and the smut/plot didn’t really make up for it. The writer had all these good plot points and ideas to explore, but the execution didn’t live up to my expectations.
I wanted to like this and the premise is a tale as old as time. I just think the writing was not it at all, and the smut/plot didn’t really make up for it. The writer had all these good plot points and ideas to explore, but the execution didn’t live up to my expectations.
September 10, 2024
This was my first read by Nicole Baker—those IG reels and BookTokers really pulled me in, and I’m glad they did!
This book is easy to follow, with mature-ish characters, a clear plot, and strong chemistry between the leads. Charlotte inherits a home from her estranged father’s estate and returns to her family’s vacation home after 10 years, only to find it in desperate need of repair. Her childhood best friend from the town of Isle of Hope suggests she hire her older brother, Asher—someone Charlotte secretly crushed on as a teen. Asher is five years older than her, and while nothing inappropriate happened back then, he’s now a grumpy, emotionally distant and hardened by losing his wife to cancer.
Asher was left widowed with an 11-month-old daughter, Brie, who’s now three. He’s shut everyone out of his life except his daughter, and his entire circle is worried about him. He’s been carrying a painful secret that’s been eating away at him since his wife’s passing, and he believes he’s incapable of feeling anything beyond his love for Brie—until he shows up at Charlotte’s house. His attraction to her is immediate, stirring feelings he’s long suppressed, but he tries to deny it and ends up acting like a jerk.
Charlotte, meanwhile, is overwhelmed with the emotions of inheriting her childhood vacation home, dealing with the estrangement and death of her father, and figuring out how to finance the renovations. The house is paid off, but she wasn’t left with any additional resources for repairs. As the story progresses, Charlotte and Asher’s chemistry builds until it’s undeniable. However, Charlotte plans to leave after the summer and sell the home, and Asher finds himself getting too attached.
As time goes on, Charlotte begins to rediscover her love for the house and the town of Isle of Hope, imagining a future there. But Asher’s inability to be honest about what’s holding him back forces Charlotte to set boundaries and demand that he work on himself. Asher realizes he wants to be a man worthy of both Charlotte and starts working on himself.
The chemistry between the characters is there! You can’t help but root for their happily ever after. It was a solid read with good supporting characters, and I’m excited to continue the series with Layla’s story next!
This book is easy to follow, with mature-ish characters, a clear plot, and strong chemistry between the leads. Charlotte inherits a home from her estranged father’s estate and returns to her family’s vacation home after 10 years, only to find it in desperate need of repair. Her childhood best friend from the town of Isle of Hope suggests she hire her older brother, Asher—someone Charlotte secretly crushed on as a teen. Asher is five years older than her, and while nothing inappropriate happened back then, he’s now a grumpy, emotionally distant and hardened by losing his wife to cancer.
Asher was left widowed with an 11-month-old daughter, Brie, who’s now three. He’s shut everyone out of his life except his daughter, and his entire circle is worried about him. He’s been carrying a painful secret that’s been eating away at him since his wife’s passing, and he believes he’s incapable of feeling anything beyond his love for Brie—until he shows up at Charlotte’s house. His attraction to her is immediate, stirring feelings he’s long suppressed, but he tries to deny it and ends up acting like a jerk.
Charlotte, meanwhile, is overwhelmed with the emotions of inheriting her childhood vacation home, dealing with the estrangement and death of her father, and figuring out how to finance the renovations. The house is paid off, but she wasn’t left with any additional resources for repairs. As the story progresses, Charlotte and Asher’s chemistry builds until it’s undeniable. However, Charlotte plans to leave after the summer and sell the home, and Asher finds himself getting too attached.
As time goes on, Charlotte begins to rediscover her love for the house and the town of Isle of Hope, imagining a future there. But Asher’s inability to be honest about what’s holding him back forces Charlotte to set boundaries and demand that he work on himself. Asher realizes he wants to be a man worthy of both Charlotte and starts working on himself.
The chemistry between the characters is there! You can’t help but root for their happily ever after. It was a solid read with good supporting characters, and I’m excited to continue the series with Layla’s story next!
April 18, 2024
The Last Time by Nicole Baker is a heartwarming and spicy romance novel that takes you on a journey of forgiveness and acceptance. It's about the power of healing, the importance of letting go of the past, and holding on to what brings you joy.
𝗔 𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘇𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱
The story is straightforward and easy to follow—no complex sentences or verbose language. It's almost like a friend telling you a story over coffee.
𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗧𝘄𝗶𝘀𝘁
Asher's past had an unexpected twist that kept me guessing until the reveal. It made me invested in the 'mystery.'
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲'𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲/𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
The charming small town of Isle of Hope is where I envision cozy evenings by the water with a book or watching the sunset with my husband.
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲
Despite a painful family past, her resilience shines through.
𝗔𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿
At first glance, Asher might seem unlikable (unless grumpy MMC is your jam). But deep down, he's a devoted dad with a heart of gold despite all the grief and pain he's been through.
𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗿
As Charlotte and Asher rebuild her childhood home, they rebuild themselves, finding strength and love in the process.
𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀
Adding a sizzling layer of secondary romance, Josh and Layla's playful banter hints at a future love story waiting to unfold.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱?
I wanted to learn more about the supporting characters. A few hints about their personalities would excite me about their storylines in the next installment.
𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀?
Without a doubt, if you like the tropes.
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀
🔨 Small-town romance
🔨 Teenage crush
🔨 Age gap
🔨 Best friend’s brother
🔨 Close proximity
🔨 Single dad
🔨 Spicy
🔨 Dual POV
𝗔 𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘇𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱
The story is straightforward and easy to follow—no complex sentences or verbose language. It's almost like a friend telling you a story over coffee.
𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗧𝘄𝗶𝘀𝘁
Asher's past had an unexpected twist that kept me guessing until the reveal. It made me invested in the 'mystery.'
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲'𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲/𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
The charming small town of Isle of Hope is where I envision cozy evenings by the water with a book or watching the sunset with my husband.
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗲
Despite a painful family past, her resilience shines through.
𝗔𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗿
At first glance, Asher might seem unlikable (unless grumpy MMC is your jam). But deep down, he's a devoted dad with a heart of gold despite all the grief and pain he's been through.
𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗿
As Charlotte and Asher rebuild her childhood home, they rebuild themselves, finding strength and love in the process.
𝗦𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀
Adding a sizzling layer of secondary romance, Josh and Layla's playful banter hints at a future love story waiting to unfold.
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱?
I wanted to learn more about the supporting characters. A few hints about their personalities would excite me about their storylines in the next installment.
𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀?
Without a doubt, if you like the tropes.
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀
🔨 Small-town romance
🔨 Teenage crush
🔨 Age gap
🔨 Best friend’s brother
🔨 Close proximity
🔨 Single dad
🔨 Spicy
🔨 Dual POV
August 3, 2024
i wasn’t aware this was a series so when i received the ARC for book two, the first time, i had to read this one before. i knew i would enjoy this book as it has some of my favourite tropes, small town and grumpy X sunshine. it’s also has the single dad, best friends brother and an age gap (6 years). the writing is incredible and it’s such a fun and easy romance to read. this book is so heartwarming and it doesn’t just have a great romance but also a journey of forgiveness, acceptance and grief. the plot is easy to follow and flows so beautifully and that added in with the twist of the past was just incredible to read. all this made me hooked into the story and even the side characters stories.
charlotte has a painful family past so seeing her grow and become stronger throughout the book was incredible. she always knew her worth and never let anyone take her down, including asher. deep down he's an amazing dad despite all the grief he's been through. whilst sometimes his actions were unjust he did redeem himself by becoming a better man before allowing charlotte to get hurt as well. also little brie is adorable and really made this book special, her bond with charlotte was very lovely. i love how they all developed over the book and had with genuine chemistry that was equally as sweet as it was spicy.
i was excited to see the cameos of josh and layla, knowing i get to read their book next, i’m really looking forward to reading that ARC. i also really loved the style and pace of this book so after this and the ARC i will definitely be checking out more books from nicole.
charlotte has a painful family past so seeing her grow and become stronger throughout the book was incredible. she always knew her worth and never let anyone take her down, including asher. deep down he's an amazing dad despite all the grief he's been through. whilst sometimes his actions were unjust he did redeem himself by becoming a better man before allowing charlotte to get hurt as well. also little brie is adorable and really made this book special, her bond with charlotte was very lovely. i love how they all developed over the book and had with genuine chemistry that was equally as sweet as it was spicy.
i was excited to see the cameos of josh and layla, knowing i get to read their book next, i’m really looking forward to reading that ARC. i also really loved the style and pace of this book so after this and the ARC i will definitely be checking out more books from nicole.
October 21, 2025
I’m not sure I’d call this a second chance romance — they never really had a first chance. She had a crush on him when she was 17, but he was older, already in a relationship (and later married). They never had real interactions, no romance, nothing physical or emotional between them back then. So calling it “second chance” feels misleading.
Usually, I dislike second chance romances because they tend to follow the same pattern: he leaves her “for her own good,” sleeps around, and years later they reunite while she’s stayed pure or has moved on responsibly. Thankfully, this book is nothing like that — it’s a completely different dynamic, and I actually enjoyed it.
I really liked the characters and their chemistry early on — that classic grumpy/sunshine energy worked perfectly. Brie was adorable; I wish she had more scenes!
What didn’t fully work for me was the “she leaves him so he can heal” part. I get her reasoning — she wanted him to get help and take responsibility — and I loved that she stood her ground. But once he started genuinely trying to change and opening up, I don’t see why she couldn’t stay and support him through that process. To me, love also means helping each other heal.
Still, I really enjoyed the writing, the story, and the characters overall. Even if I didn’t agree with every choice the main character made, it was heartfelt and well-written.
Rating: 4.5/5
Usually, I dislike second chance romances because they tend to follow the same pattern: he leaves her “for her own good,” sleeps around, and years later they reunite while she’s stayed pure or has moved on responsibly. Thankfully, this book is nothing like that — it’s a completely different dynamic, and I actually enjoyed it.
I really liked the characters and their chemistry early on — that classic grumpy/sunshine energy worked perfectly. Brie was adorable; I wish she had more scenes!
What didn’t fully work for me was the “she leaves him so he can heal” part. I get her reasoning — she wanted him to get help and take responsibility — and I loved that she stood her ground. But once he started genuinely trying to change and opening up, I don’t see why she couldn’t stay and support him through that process. To me, love also means helping each other heal.
Still, I really enjoyed the writing, the story, and the characters overall. Even if I didn’t agree with every choice the main character made, it was heartfelt and well-written.
Rating: 4.5/5
April 8, 2024
4.5/⭐️
3/🌶️
This was one of the best books I’ve read this year. It was a quick read for me, because the story just sucked me in. Also this may of been the spiciest of all Nicole’s book that I’ve read.
Asher is a grumpy, angry ish, single dad widow. Who only smiled around his daughter, and kept everyone at bay with all his problems and anger.
Charlotte is a sunshine happy, person but still holds a lot of unresolved anger. She came back to her favorite beach house that her estranged father, left her in his will when he passed.
Together they helped each other heal.
Asher from his issues and Charlotte with her daddy issues. They had chemistry. Lord from the first town Asher saw her again after 10 years, he finally felt things for the first time in over 2 years.
They had such a good friendship within their group of people.
I believe Asher needs Charlotte because he needed someone to challenge him and call him out on his BS. Charlotte needed Asher because she needed someone there for her and not leave her.
I loved them. Their story. Their chemistry. Their painting abilities 😜
I received this as an ARC and all the thoughts are my own.
3/🌶️
This was one of the best books I’ve read this year. It was a quick read for me, because the story just sucked me in. Also this may of been the spiciest of all Nicole’s book that I’ve read.
Asher is a grumpy, angry ish, single dad widow. Who only smiled around his daughter, and kept everyone at bay with all his problems and anger.
Charlotte is a sunshine happy, person but still holds a lot of unresolved anger. She came back to her favorite beach house that her estranged father, left her in his will when he passed.
Together they helped each other heal.
Asher from his issues and Charlotte with her daddy issues. They had chemistry. Lord from the first town Asher saw her again after 10 years, he finally felt things for the first time in over 2 years.
They had such a good friendship within their group of people.
I believe Asher needs Charlotte because he needed someone to challenge him and call him out on his BS. Charlotte needed Asher because she needed someone there for her and not leave her.
I loved them. Their story. Their chemistry. Their painting abilities 😜
I received this as an ARC and all the thoughts are my own.
April 16, 2024
I have a feeling I am really going to love this new place and all its new characters!
Charlotte and Asher were the best way to kick off this series in the Isle of Hope! When the girl from all those summers ago makes a reappearance out of no where the grumpy single dad finds himself entranced by the woman she has become.
Charlotte’s plan was to only be there for the summer, she was going to fix up a house and go back to where she came from. But when old friends and a teenage crush come crashing into her life all over again. Charlotte finds herself wanting more in life and thinking she can find it her in the Isle of Hope.
Asher did plan to love again, his only goal in life was to love and protect his daughter. But when the beautiful girl from many years ago makes her way into his world, he finds himself wanting so much more than what he ever planned to give another person again!
I am excited to see where Baker goes with this series and this crew!!
Charlotte and Asher were the best way to kick off this series in the Isle of Hope! When the girl from all those summers ago makes a reappearance out of no where the grumpy single dad finds himself entranced by the woman she has become.
Charlotte’s plan was to only be there for the summer, she was going to fix up a house and go back to where she came from. But when old friends and a teenage crush come crashing into her life all over again. Charlotte finds herself wanting more in life and thinking she can find it her in the Isle of Hope.
Asher did plan to love again, his only goal in life was to love and protect his daughter. But when the beautiful girl from many years ago makes her way into his world, he finds himself wanting so much more than what he ever planned to give another person again!
I am excited to see where Baker goes with this series and this crew!!
August 5, 2024
✨ The Last Time is book 1 in the Isle of Hope series
Oh. My. Heart. 🥹 I was not prepared for how much I would love this book!
Charlotte has had her eye on Asher since she was seventeen. But he was her best friend’s older brother and totally off limits. Now ten years later she is back in her childhood summer home and face to face with Asher again. But maybe he’s not the Asher she remembers..
Charlotte & Asher are so real and genuine. And sweet little Brie 🥰 The slow burn in this book is sooooo good, but when that spice hits?! Ah! I love it!! Seeing the journey and the growth from both the main characters is so special, and the mental health representation, especially from the MMC, is everything.
Nicole’s writing is effortless and beautiful. It pulled me in so deeply that I forgot I was reading a fictional book, instead of actual lives of people I care about.
Oh. My. Heart. 🥹 I was not prepared for how much I would love this book!
Charlotte has had her eye on Asher since she was seventeen. But he was her best friend’s older brother and totally off limits. Now ten years later she is back in her childhood summer home and face to face with Asher again. But maybe he’s not the Asher she remembers..
Charlotte & Asher are so real and genuine. And sweet little Brie 🥰 The slow burn in this book is sooooo good, but when that spice hits?! Ah! I love it!! Seeing the journey and the growth from both the main characters is so special, and the mental health representation, especially from the MMC, is everything.
Nicole’s writing is effortless and beautiful. It pulled me in so deeply that I forgot I was reading a fictional book, instead of actual lives of people I care about.
November 25, 2024
Small Town Romance
This book was such a cute read and a palate cleanser from my heavy romantasy binge. Charlotte, the FMC, moves back to her childhood home town, Isle of Hope, after her father leaves her their summer home in his will. There, she reconnects with Asher, her best friend’s brother and the MMC. He’s a widowed, single dad, struggling with pent up anger and emotions of a past betrayal.
The chemistry and fire between the two are nothing short of stressful yet funny. The author did a great job writing the emotions of these two in such heart felt detail, you can’t help but be affected by their stories.
It definitely has enough spice to be considered smut lol but I find that it doesn’t take away from the story and instead adds to the strong emotions you can feel from the characters. It’s a nice beach/cozy read.
This book was such a cute read and a palate cleanser from my heavy romantasy binge. Charlotte, the FMC, moves back to her childhood home town, Isle of Hope, after her father leaves her their summer home in his will. There, she reconnects with Asher, her best friend’s brother and the MMC. He’s a widowed, single dad, struggling with pent up anger and emotions of a past betrayal.
The chemistry and fire between the two are nothing short of stressful yet funny. The author did a great job writing the emotions of these two in such heart felt detail, you can’t help but be affected by their stories.
It definitely has enough spice to be considered smut lol but I find that it doesn’t take away from the story and instead adds to the strong emotions you can feel from the characters. It’s a nice beach/cozy read.
April 13, 2024
ARC Review
From the moment I delved into its pages, this
book ensnared my imagination and held me
captive until the very end. The intricate tale of
Asher and Charlotte's journey resonated
deeply with me, as their connection unfolded
with a raw authenticity that tugged at my
heartstrings. Equally compelling was the
evolving bond between Charlotte and Brie
which added layers of depth to the narrative
And oh, the ending! It left me utterly
spellbound, with tears streaming down my
cheeks as I experienced a rollercoaster of
emotions. Nicole's mastery of storytelling
shines brightly in this work, seamlessly
weaving together a tapestry of feelings that
left me yearning for more. I eagerly await the
next installment, eager to embark on another
unforgettable journey.
From the moment I delved into its pages, this
book ensnared my imagination and held me
captive until the very end. The intricate tale of
Asher and Charlotte's journey resonated
deeply with me, as their connection unfolded
with a raw authenticity that tugged at my
heartstrings. Equally compelling was the
evolving bond between Charlotte and Brie
which added layers of depth to the narrative
And oh, the ending! It left me utterly
spellbound, with tears streaming down my
cheeks as I experienced a rollercoaster of
emotions. Nicole's mastery of storytelling
shines brightly in this work, seamlessly
weaving together a tapestry of feelings that
left me yearning for more. I eagerly await the
next installment, eager to embark on another
unforgettable journey.
April 14, 2024
This book is definitely a grumpy sunshine romance with some spice. There are some kinks that are explored that make it a little more spicy. The romantic relationship between Charlotte and Asher is sweet and tense at times but loving. The relationships between the rest of the characters is the story is just as important, especially when they need support from each other. Charlotte is dealing with the loss of her father, which is what brings her back to her old summer house and her friends from a decade ago. When she goes into her favorite cafe, she runs in to her best friend. She explains she's back in town to fix up the house to sell it, her friend tells her to contact her brother to help with the renovations. That's what brings Charlotte and Asher together and starts their relationship.
March 30, 2024
Charlotte and Asher's story is sweet and sad.
It starts with a crush on your friends older brother back in high school to seeing him again ten years later and finding the feelings are still as strong. However, the boy you knew is replaced by a very angry and bitter man.
They both lost someone they loved dearly, but secrets came to light after their deaths. And while Charlotte pushed all her anger deep down, Asher wore his on his sleeve. Which worked, until it didn't and the outcome was heartbreaking.
They learned that forgiving the people who did them wrong was freeing themselves from the anger and were able to love each other the way they deserved.
It starts with a crush on your friends older brother back in high school to seeing him again ten years later and finding the feelings are still as strong. However, the boy you knew is replaced by a very angry and bitter man.
They both lost someone they loved dearly, but secrets came to light after their deaths. And while Charlotte pushed all her anger deep down, Asher wore his on his sleeve. Which worked, until it didn't and the outcome was heartbreaking.
They learned that forgiving the people who did them wrong was freeing themselves from the anger and were able to love each other the way they deserved.
October 21, 2024
God I haven’t cried because of a book for a long time
Asher and Charlotte, soulmates, who found each other when the time was right and in the best circumstances
A LOT of hot stuff is happening, a lot of feelings shared, the queen karma came for the right people! (Sorry not sorry, sue me)
Small town romances have this kind of awesome vibe that I just can’t get enough of. Single dad trope is also just something that has it for me and vice versa
“From crush to strangers to friends to lovers” loved it 🥰
Always the most beautiful and wholesome happy endings are in small town in my opinion ❤️❤️❤️
Asher and Charlotte, soulmates, who found each other when the time was right and in the best circumstances
A LOT of hot stuff is happening, a lot of feelings shared, the queen karma came for the right people! (Sorry not sorry, sue me)
Small town romances have this kind of awesome vibe that I just can’t get enough of. Single dad trope is also just something that has it for me and vice versa
“From crush to strangers to friends to lovers” loved it 🥰
Always the most beautiful and wholesome happy endings are in small town in my opinion ❤️❤️❤️
April 10, 2024
ARC review… Asher is a single Dad who has lost his wife. Grumpy, but not to his daughter who he does smile for. He doesn’t like to let people in or let them get close.
Charlotte is the opposite. She is a happy person but does hold some anger and holds on to some unresolved issues.
She has moved back to the beach house her father left her after he has passed.
Secrets come to life after both of their loses and they both have to learn to forgive the people that wronged them both.
This book was absolutely fantastic, it pulls you in and you just can’t put it down.
Don’t miss this amazing book
Charlotte is the opposite. She is a happy person but does hold some anger and holds on to some unresolved issues.
She has moved back to the beach house her father left her after he has passed.
Secrets come to life after both of their loses and they both have to learn to forgive the people that wronged them both.
This book was absolutely fantastic, it pulls you in and you just can’t put it down.
Don’t miss this amazing book
April 12, 2024
If you’re looking for a book that will pack an emotional punch then you need your read this book! There’s love, heartbreak, and so much more that has me unable to put the book down. This was a quick read for me but I really enjoyed it.
I absolutely loved Charlotte and Asher. I loved the dynamics between them and how they changed throughout the book. I definitely want more of them!
I’m excited for another book from Nicole Baker! She always writes compelling characters that pull on your heartstrings!!!
I absolutely loved Charlotte and Asher. I loved the dynamics between them and how they changed throughout the book. I definitely want more of them!
I’m excited for another book from Nicole Baker! She always writes compelling characters that pull on your heartstrings!!!
August 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this. I loved the tropes, brother's best friend, age gap, second chance, enemies to lovers, forced proximity.
When Layla and Josh are thrown together after her bff suddenly has to cancel, they have to decide how to handle being together.
There's clearly a reason they don't like eachother... or do they?
I thoroughly enjoyed this from start to finish. The banter was great. The story was engaging. I will definitely continue reading books from this author. I highly recommend reading this one.
When Layla and Josh are thrown together after her bff suddenly has to cancel, they have to decide how to handle being together.
There's clearly a reason they don't like eachother... or do they?
I thoroughly enjoyed this from start to finish. The banter was great. The story was engaging. I will definitely continue reading books from this author. I highly recommend reading this one.
April 12, 2024
Thank you Nicole for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Well this story had a combined of all my favorite troupes. #singledad with some #bestfriendsbrother and #secondchance thrown in. I thought the pacing was fantastic. The spice was 🌶️🌶️ and the swoon was 😍😍. I did NOT see the twist coming, and I feel like Nicole wrapped up the end perfectly. And the bonus epilogue ARE YOU KIDDING?! Chefs Kiss 🥹.
July 31, 2024
This was one of my top books l've read this year. It was a quick read for me, because the story just sucked me in.
Asher is a grumpy, single dad widow.
Charlotte is a sunshine happy, person but still holds a lot of anger. She came back to her favorite beach house that her estranged father left her in his will when he passed. They helped each other heal.
The story was so good! It was such a realistic read. I want to go back and re read this already!!
Asher is a grumpy, single dad widow.
Charlotte is a sunshine happy, person but still holds a lot of anger. She came back to her favorite beach house that her estranged father left her in his will when he passed. They helped each other heal.
The story was so good! It was such a realistic read. I want to go back and re read this already!!
April 11, 2024
I enjoyed reading about Asher & Charlotte. They were two characters that will stick with me as the reader for awhile. I was invested in the storyline from the first to the last page. These two characters had plenty of chemistry & I enjoyed reading about their relationship. This story will stay with this reader for awhile along with the characters. I enjoyed this one.
July 27, 2024
The writing style was a bit choppy but I loved this story.
The characters were super cute together. The side characters all flowed so well together. I took an instant dislike to Paul 😒
Little Brie is the sweetest toddler and has everyone wrapped around her finger. The relationship between father and daughter was very heart warming.
Look forward to reading more from this author
The characters were super cute together. The side characters all flowed so well together. I took an instant dislike to Paul 😒
Little Brie is the sweetest toddler and has everyone wrapped around her finger. The relationship between father and daughter was very heart warming.
Look forward to reading more from this author
October 11, 2024
I enjoyed this a lot. I’d say it’s a high four/low five. Lovedddd Charlotte and Asher. I also loved that Charlotte didn’t forgive him right away and made Asher work for his forgiveness. The spice was good. Story and characters were likeable. I had a feeling the secret was what it was. But I didn’t expect the who that was involved!
October 14, 2024
The writing style was a bit choppy but I loved this story.
The characters were super cute together. The side characters all flowed so well together. I took an instant dislike to Paul 😒
Little Brie is the sweetest toddler and has everyone wrapped around her finger. The relationship between father and daughter was very heart warming.
Look forward to reading more from this author
The characters were super cute together. The side characters all flowed so well together. I took an instant dislike to Paul 😒
Little Brie is the sweetest toddler and has everyone wrapped around her finger. The relationship between father and daughter was very heart warming.
Look forward to reading more from this author
February 3, 2025
Honestly I love how Charlotte stood her ground and didn’t back down, she knew what she deserved and wasn’t afraid to say it. Asher was the perfect example of someone who believes if they keep everything locked up there aren’t consequences. I’m just glad he finally pulled his head out of his butt before he truly lost what he had.
November 17, 2025
A little spicy, easy to read, and good story development! Even the character development was spot on! Seeing the relationship between Asher and Charolette form was wonderful, but Asher’s character development was what I loved the most. And the little twist thrown in was icing on the cake and left me with my mouth hanging open. Love this book!
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