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Haven Harbor #2
Play For Keeps
I had one very big reason to swear off men forever: My cheating ex-husband.
Our marriage may have been a total disaster, but it did give me my beautiful daughter Birdie. She’s the only good thing that man ever brought to my life.
So, when I packed up the car and headed to the small town of Reed Point to start a new life with my little girl, I vowed that a relationship—and the heartache and destruction that would inevitably follow—was not part of the plan.
That was before I walked straight into Jake Matthews and my whole world turned upside down. Jake is six-foot-something and all muscle, with piercing hazel eyes and a smirk that can set you on fire. He’s protective and sweet—and he’s 7 years younger than me. And when he finally gets me in his bed, I realize what I’ve been missing.
Every time Jake’s deep, moody eyes meet mine, every time he whispers filthy things to me, I almost forget all of the reasons this is never going to work.
My life is complicated. I have a stack of bills I need to pay, a little girl who has to come first and a past that I’m trying to outrun. A past that is threatening to catch up with me.
The new life I’ve worked so hard to build could fall apart when I’m forced to make the biggest decision of my life. Falling for Jake was never part of the plan, but now I may need to walk away from the man who has stolen my heart.
Our marriage may have been a total disaster, but it did give me my beautiful daughter Birdie. She’s the only good thing that man ever brought to my life.
So, when I packed up the car and headed to the small town of Reed Point to start a new life with my little girl, I vowed that a relationship—and the heartache and destruction that would inevitably follow—was not part of the plan.
That was before I walked straight into Jake Matthews and my whole world turned upside down. Jake is six-foot-something and all muscle, with piercing hazel eyes and a smirk that can set you on fire. He’s protective and sweet—and he’s 7 years younger than me. And when he finally gets me in his bed, I realize what I’ve been missing.
Every time Jake’s deep, moody eyes meet mine, every time he whispers filthy things to me, I almost forget all of the reasons this is never going to work.
My life is complicated. I have a stack of bills I need to pay, a little girl who has to come first and a past that I’m trying to outrun. A past that is threatening to catch up with me.
The new life I’ve worked so hard to build could fall apart when I’m forced to make the biggest decision of my life. Falling for Jake was never part of the plan, but now I may need to walk away from the man who has stolen my heart.
Paperback
First published May 9, 2024
111 people are currently reading
640 people want to read
About the author
Lily Miller
10 books233 followersContemporary romance author writing sweet, steamy happily ever afters with swoon-worthy heroes and confident, sexy heroines. Romace reads are my happly place. XO
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
April 28, 2024
* single mom trope
* No third act breakup
* Small town
* Reverse age gap [she’s 34, he’s 27]
Thank you to love notes PR for for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
Everly packs her bags and moves back home to be closer to her parents after her ex husband cheats on her and she has finally had enough.
After working in town for a bit she runs into Jake and continues to see him around and once he meets her daughter the two become inseparable.
Jake’s and birdies relationship is sweet and seeing how he really stepped up and cared for Birdie before him and Ev were even official was too cute.
THIS IS A SMUTTY BOOK BE FOREWARNED!!! Despite swearing off men Ev and Jake’s chemistry steamy. SMUT IS FREQUENT AND DETAILED
* No third act breakup
* Small town
* Reverse age gap [she’s 34, he’s 27]
Thank you to love notes PR for for an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
Everly packs her bags and moves back home to be closer to her parents after her ex husband cheats on her and she has finally had enough.
After working in town for a bit she runs into Jake and continues to see him around and once he meets her daughter the two become inseparable.
Jake’s and birdies relationship is sweet and seeing how he really stepped up and cared for Birdie before him and Ev were even official was too cute.
THIS IS A SMUTTY BOOK BE FOREWARNED!!! Despite swearing off men Ev and Jake’s chemistry steamy. SMUT IS FREQUENT AND DETAILED
May 10, 2024
This is a Reverse Age Gap, single Mother romance set in a small town and thus has all the ingredients for a cozy, light-hearted read.
The book follows Everly and the cutie-pie daughter Birdie, who both relocate to Reed Point, seeking solace from a troubled and rather neglectful marriage. In pursuit of a fresh start, Everly navigates single parenthood with unwavering determination. She is a kind-hearted, hardworking and devoted mother. Her experiences make her hesitant to let another man into their lives, adding depth to her character and the overall storyline. Her transformation throughout the book is a joy to witness, and the main reason for this transformation is called Jake Matthews.
Jake enters the scene with a charming personality, a rugged edge and pretty good looks, earning him the nickname "Mr. Sex on legs." Upon meeting Everly and her daughter, Birdie, he immediately develops a deep affection for them. However, being seven years younger than Everly, Jake doesn't seem like the safest bet. Despite Everly's initial doubts, Jake remains determined to prove himself worthy of their future together. Jake's transformation from a brooding protector to a caring and steadfast partner is both touching and compelling.
While the chemistry between Everly and Jake in their relationship is a carefully balanced combination of playful banter and genuine affection, it's the relationship between Jake and his Birdie-girl that was the absolute highlight of this book, beautifully portraying the magic of unexpected love.
On a more critical note, I feel that the resolution of Jade's storyline in the book felt rushed and lacked the depth it deserved. This was a missed opportunity to showcase the emotional depth of Jake's character. While Jake embodies the quintessential book boyfriend, his perfect portrayal unfortunately felt a tad unrealistic. I wish Miller had used the Jade subplot to explore Jake's character in a more nuanced way, with introspection and insight that would reveal a multidimensional character with flaws and insecurities that go beyond his youth.
Similarly, the resolution of Everly's ex-husband's threat created a sense of missed opportunity for deeper exploration. While this could have been a deliberate choice by the author to avoid drama for the sake of it, it also stifled the emotional depth of the overall reading experience.
Overall, Play for Keeps delivers a delightful romance with its share of highs and lows, ultimately leaving readers with a warm, fuzzy feeling and a desire for more from the charming world of Haven Harbor. 3.5 stars!
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving the ARC didn't affect my opinion of the book.
The book follows Everly and the cutie-pie daughter Birdie, who both relocate to Reed Point, seeking solace from a troubled and rather neglectful marriage. In pursuit of a fresh start, Everly navigates single parenthood with unwavering determination. She is a kind-hearted, hardworking and devoted mother. Her experiences make her hesitant to let another man into their lives, adding depth to her character and the overall storyline. Her transformation throughout the book is a joy to witness, and the main reason for this transformation is called Jake Matthews.
Jake enters the scene with a charming personality, a rugged edge and pretty good looks, earning him the nickname "Mr. Sex on legs." Upon meeting Everly and her daughter, Birdie, he immediately develops a deep affection for them. However, being seven years younger than Everly, Jake doesn't seem like the safest bet. Despite Everly's initial doubts, Jake remains determined to prove himself worthy of their future together. Jake's transformation from a brooding protector to a caring and steadfast partner is both touching and compelling.
While the chemistry between Everly and Jake in their relationship is a carefully balanced combination of playful banter and genuine affection, it's the relationship between Jake and his Birdie-girl that was the absolute highlight of this book, beautifully portraying the magic of unexpected love.
On a more critical note, I feel that the resolution of Jade's storyline in the book felt rushed and lacked the depth it deserved. This was a missed opportunity to showcase the emotional depth of Jake's character. While Jake embodies the quintessential book boyfriend, his perfect portrayal unfortunately felt a tad unrealistic. I wish Miller had used the Jade subplot to explore Jake's character in a more nuanced way, with introspection and insight that would reveal a multidimensional character with flaws and insecurities that go beyond his youth.
Similarly, the resolution of Everly's ex-husband's threat created a sense of missed opportunity for deeper exploration. While this could have been a deliberate choice by the author to avoid drama for the sake of it, it also stifled the emotional depth of the overall reading experience.
Overall, Play for Keeps delivers a delightful romance with its share of highs and lows, ultimately leaving readers with a warm, fuzzy feeling and a desire for more from the charming world of Haven Harbor. 3.5 stars!
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving the ARC didn't affect my opinion of the book.
April 22, 2024
Thank you to love notes pr for this arc 🩷
This is the second book in a series of interconnected standalones. Jake is 27, a business owner, and is instantly attracted to a waitress in his small town. Everly has just divorced her husband and has moved her daughter to a small town. She’s 34 and starting over. When she and Jake meet, she can only offer friendship because her daughter comes first. Also, she’s 7 years older and in a different place in life. Jake continues to show up for Everly and her daughter even when her ex doesn’t.
Jake was determined and fell for both Everly and her daughter. He was sweet and patient!
Tropes:
Single mom
Small town
Reverse age gap
No third act break up
This is the second book in a series of interconnected standalones. Jake is 27, a business owner, and is instantly attracted to a waitress in his small town. Everly has just divorced her husband and has moved her daughter to a small town. She’s 34 and starting over. When she and Jake meet, she can only offer friendship because her daughter comes first. Also, she’s 7 years older and in a different place in life. Jake continues to show up for Everly and her daughter even when her ex doesn’t.
Jake was determined and fell for both Everly and her daughter. He was sweet and patient!
Tropes:
Single mom
Small town
Reverse age gap
No third act break up
April 29, 2024
ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖩𝖺𝗄𝖾
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖤𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗅𝗒
4.5 𝘚𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘸 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘺 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘒𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘴 𝘉𝘺 𝘓𝘪𝘭𝘺 𝘔𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳
Everly, she never expected that she will have so much heartache in the years she spent with her ex husband. After years she finally decided to start off fresh and moved to Reed Point and it was the best decision for her and her daughter Birdie.
...she worked so hard to give her daughter everything 🤍
Jake, lost his parents when he was young, and he carries the burden of losing them. His loyal and caring and very protective. When he meets Everly, everything changes.
This book...the connection between the main characters was just amazing, especially with the undeniable chemistry. Jake wants Everly, but she's only willing to give him friendship so he takes it. The development from friendship to more was just beautiful. And the spicy scenes 🔥
....the best parts in this book, was the love that Jake had for Everly's daughter Birdie ♥️
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Loved the hero's family and friends 🤍
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 🏗️🏗️🏗️🏗️🏗️
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 💋💋💋💋💋
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️🥵
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚.5
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖩𝖺𝗄𝖾
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖤𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗅𝗒
4.5 𝘚𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘸 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘺 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘒𝘦𝘦𝘱𝘴 𝘉𝘺 𝘓𝘪𝘭𝘺 𝘔𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳
Everly, she never expected that she will have so much heartache in the years she spent with her ex husband. After years she finally decided to start off fresh and moved to Reed Point and it was the best decision for her and her daughter Birdie.
...she worked so hard to give her daughter everything 🤍
Jake, lost his parents when he was young, and he carries the burden of losing them. His loyal and caring and very protective. When he meets Everly, everything changes.
This book...the connection between the main characters was just amazing, especially with the undeniable chemistry. Jake wants Everly, but she's only willing to give him friendship so he takes it. The development from friendship to more was just beautiful. And the spicy scenes 🔥
....the best parts in this book, was the love that Jake had for Everly's daughter Birdie ♥️
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Loved the hero's family and friends 🤍
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 🏗️🏗️🏗️🏗️🏗️
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 💋💋💋💋💋
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️🥵
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚.5
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧
April 28, 2024
Thank you Love Notes PR for the ARC copy of this book ✨
Everly and Birdie starting their new life over after a cheating ex husband. The author made me fall in love with both of them from the beginning. I’m a sucker for a good guy named Jake ;) having my own! The thing I liked about this book is it wasn’t over the top. It was believable and very entertaining. I’ve been in a reading slump and this was the quickest I’ve finished a book in a while! Highly recommend.
It is the second book in the Haven Harbor Series. It is not necessary to read the first to read this one!
Everly and Birdie starting their new life over after a cheating ex husband. The author made me fall in love with both of them from the beginning. I’m a sucker for a good guy named Jake ;) having my own! The thing I liked about this book is it wasn’t over the top. It was believable and very entertaining. I’ve been in a reading slump and this was the quickest I’ve finished a book in a while! Highly recommend.
It is the second book in the Haven Harbor Series. It is not necessary to read the first to read this one!
Read
July 12, 2024DNF 70%
sorry omg it’s just too boring. I tried to continue but I’ve been reading a lot of mediocre books lately that I’m done with waiting it out.
sorry omg it’s just too boring. I tried to continue but I’ve been reading a lot of mediocre books lately that I’m done with waiting it out.
June 11, 2024
Based on the first book in the series, Jake Mathews isn’t who you’d expect him to be. The first book painted him out to be hectic, seemingly unorganized, undecided, and even unrightfully possessive. We are continuously told how at his core, he truly has a loving heart - yet it’s not so obvious to see. I’m going to be honest - I wasn’t excited to read his book! I felt I would hate it, but I didn’t. In this one, Jake is portrayed at being misunderstood and actually quite emotional. He’s the type who is so emotional, he doesn’t express it much at all. He is restless in trying to persuade Everly to go out with him. When he succeeds, he is surprisingly very good at being in a relationship. This is somewhat surprising, being that he’s only ever been in one long-term relationship. Regardless, he proves his worth and dispels all of Everly’s doubts, and wins his way into her (and her daughter, Birdie’s) heart. Not only does he step up to be the man she deserves, but he steps up to be the father Birdie never had. This isn’t a task to him, but rather an award. He quickly falls in love with the both of them, and shows it daily. He mentioned how he didn’t expect himself to be so in love with both of them so quickly, but it just all felt so right to him. Honestly, after seeing how strongly he felt about everything, it started to make sense to me as well. Additionally, the book starts off at the beginning of where the last book started off, in the same timeframe. So, it was great being able to see his perspectives and viewpoints on things that happened in the previous book, while simultaneously knowing what was going on, on the other side of things. Overall, I was very pleased with this book, and super surprised how much his character seemed to change. It was definitely a character-building book that wins readers over to Jake’s side!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2024
This is such an amazing follow up to One Good Move. Everly is a single mom who moves to Reed Point looking for a fresh start for her and her daughter. Her ex husband is a cheating jerk and the last thing Everly is looking for is a relationship after dealing with all of that. But Jake has other ideas when he meets her. At the beginning he settles for friendship, and I loved the slow burn and build up in their relationship. It was fun to see this side of Jake after reading 𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘎𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘔𝘰𝘷𝘦, and how grumpy he was from his sister and best friend’s point of view. I absolutely love him, he is protective and so sweet with Birdie, Everly’s daughter. Everything about them and this book are perfection!
If you love:
🌸Single Mom
🤍Reverse Age Gap
🍃Found Family
🤍Grumpy x Sunshine
🌸No Third Act Breakup
🤍Tattooed Dirty Talkers
🍃Dual POV
🤍Spice
Then do yourself a favor and go grab this one! It’s available on #kindleunlimited and in paperback.
If you love:
🌸Single Mom
🤍Reverse Age Gap
🍃Found Family
🤍Grumpy x Sunshine
🌸No Third Act Breakup
🤍Tattooed Dirty Talkers
🍃Dual POV
🤍Spice
Then do yourself a favor and go grab this one! It’s available on #kindleunlimited and in paperback.
April 28, 2024
And just like that, we’re back in Haven Harbor! When reading the first book of this series, I always wanted to know what was going on with Jake and guess what? We got it!
Set during the same time as One Good Move, Play For Keeps follows Sierra’s older grumpy Jake, and Everly, just divorced and starting a new life with her daughter. Focused on making ends meet to provide for her daughter, Everly is not interested in dating anyone new at all. What happens when she meets the hot, tattooed, younger man that talked cat facts with her daughter?
I really enjoyed this story – it was so sweet. There were so many things I loved about Jake. He was patient and never pushed Everly to move any faster than she wanted. He understood and respected the boundaries she set in place to ensure Birdie was well protected and that alone made this man a dreamboat. He took the time to get to know Birdie, and paid attention to anything she spoke about, unlike her excuse of a father. He really showed up for her. I loved the fact that he would walk Everly home every night without being asked because he wanted to make sure she was safe. Jake knew that Everly could handle things on her own, and I loved that he let her do it. But I also loved that he wasn’t afraid to stand up for her either. And the bedroom talk? Everly got SO lucky with this man.
It's so refreshing to read an age-gap romance, where the woman is older. I loved that she was 34 and he was 27. Other tropes included are single mother (duh), small town, and no third act break up. I swear – this book doesn’t look like there would be any spice but I promise you, there’s more than you think.
If you're looking for a cute, small town romance - this is for you!
Thank you so much to Love Notes PR and Lily Miller for providing me with this arc in exchange for an honest review. I’m excited to continue this series!
Set during the same time as One Good Move, Play For Keeps follows Sierra’s older grumpy Jake, and Everly, just divorced and starting a new life with her daughter. Focused on making ends meet to provide for her daughter, Everly is not interested in dating anyone new at all. What happens when she meets the hot, tattooed, younger man that talked cat facts with her daughter?
I really enjoyed this story – it was so sweet. There were so many things I loved about Jake. He was patient and never pushed Everly to move any faster than she wanted. He understood and respected the boundaries she set in place to ensure Birdie was well protected and that alone made this man a dreamboat. He took the time to get to know Birdie, and paid attention to anything she spoke about, unlike her excuse of a father. He really showed up for her. I loved the fact that he would walk Everly home every night without being asked because he wanted to make sure she was safe. Jake knew that Everly could handle things on her own, and I loved that he let her do it. But I also loved that he wasn’t afraid to stand up for her either. And the bedroom talk? Everly got SO lucky with this man.
It's so refreshing to read an age-gap romance, where the woman is older. I loved that she was 34 and he was 27. Other tropes included are single mother (duh), small town, and no third act break up. I swear – this book doesn’t look like there would be any spice but I promise you, there’s more than you think.
If you're looking for a cute, small town romance - this is for you!
Thank you so much to Love Notes PR and Lily Miller for providing me with this arc in exchange for an honest review. I’m excited to continue this series!
May 11, 2024
✨ 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 ✨
𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐋𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐥����𝐫
𝚁𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚝𝚎: 𝙼𝚊𝚢 𝟿𝚝𝚑, 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺 — 𝙾𝚞𝚝 𝙽𝚘𝚠!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞:
🌼 small town romance
🌼 single mom
🌼 reverse age gap
🌼 he falls first & harder
🌼 found family
🌼 grumpy/sunshine
🌼 no 3rd act break up
🌼 open door romance
🌼 dual POV
Everly finds herself moving her and her 7 year old daughter Birdie back to her small hometown of Reed Point. Everly has left her cheating & verbally abusive ex-husband to start over. With starting over comes working full time at a local restaurant since Everly is not accepting any child support from the father of her child. At the restaurant, Everly literally runs into Jake Matthews. A grumpy, tattooed, handsome man who is seven years younger than Everly. Jake can’t stop thinking about Everly & when he runs into her at the beach with her daughter, he decides to give it his all for a chance with her. Everly has her walls up & puts Birdie first in front of everything & isn’t sure she should get involved with Jake. But Jake refuses to give up on the opportunity to be with Everly.
Ahhhh I am still smiling after reading this book. Jake is sooo freakin swoony & the way that he loves & takes care of Everly & her daughter Birdie is EVERYTHING. Everly is such a strong, protective, & determined single mother who works her butt off to provide for her daughter. Jake doesn’t step in to “rescue” Everly from her troubles, but he does support her & shows up for her through & through no matter what life brings them. I absolutely loved this one!!
𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐋𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐥����𝐫
𝚁𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝙳𝚊𝚝𝚎: 𝙼𝚊𝚢 𝟿𝚝𝚑, 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺 — 𝙾𝚞𝚝 𝙽𝚘𝚠!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞:
🌼 small town romance
🌼 single mom
🌼 reverse age gap
🌼 he falls first & harder
🌼 found family
🌼 grumpy/sunshine
🌼 no 3rd act break up
🌼 open door romance
🌼 dual POV
Everly finds herself moving her and her 7 year old daughter Birdie back to her small hometown of Reed Point. Everly has left her cheating & verbally abusive ex-husband to start over. With starting over comes working full time at a local restaurant since Everly is not accepting any child support from the father of her child. At the restaurant, Everly literally runs into Jake Matthews. A grumpy, tattooed, handsome man who is seven years younger than Everly. Jake can’t stop thinking about Everly & when he runs into her at the beach with her daughter, he decides to give it his all for a chance with her. Everly has her walls up & puts Birdie first in front of everything & isn’t sure she should get involved with Jake. But Jake refuses to give up on the opportunity to be with Everly.
Ahhhh I am still smiling after reading this book. Jake is sooo freakin swoony & the way that he loves & takes care of Everly & her daughter Birdie is EVERYTHING. Everly is such a strong, protective, & determined single mother who works her butt off to provide for her daughter. Jake doesn’t step in to “rescue” Everly from her troubles, but he does support her & shows up for her through & through no matter what life brings them. I absolutely loved this one!!
April 26, 2024
Play for Keeps is the second book in Lily Miller’s Haven Harbor series and follows the story of Everly and Jake. It can be read as a standalone but I would recommend reading the series in order as the characters cross over. I am a sucker for the single-parent trope, and this book delivered it in a beautiful way.
Everly and her seven-year old daughter, Birdie, move to Reed Point to be closer to her parents after leaving her brutal marriage. She works hard to provide for her and her daughter and doesn’t have time for anything more than friendship. I loved seeing her come out of her shell throughout the story and how she found her own family in the people of Reed Point.
Jake - tall, tattooed, and gorgeous - was instantly enamoured with Everly and her adorable daughter. Throughout the story, Jake opens up about his past experiences and heartbreak and I loved seeing his character grow from the broody big brother we see in the previous book into this strong and sweet protector. While Everly has sworn off men, Jake will do whatever it takes to prove he’s the right man for their lives. The question is, can he do this before her past catches up to them?
This was a beautifully-written, steamy, small-town romance that is full of beachy vibes and warm summer nights. I love that it followed the same timeline as One Good Move and gave us glimpses of Sierra and Grayson’s story from Jake’s perspective.
Tropes:
Small town
Reverse age gap (she’s 34, he’s 27)
Single mom
Found family
No third-act breakup
Thank you so much to Lily Miller and LoveNotes PR for the ARC.
Everly and her seven-year old daughter, Birdie, move to Reed Point to be closer to her parents after leaving her brutal marriage. She works hard to provide for her and her daughter and doesn’t have time for anything more than friendship. I loved seeing her come out of her shell throughout the story and how she found her own family in the people of Reed Point.
Jake - tall, tattooed, and gorgeous - was instantly enamoured with Everly and her adorable daughter. Throughout the story, Jake opens up about his past experiences and heartbreak and I loved seeing his character grow from the broody big brother we see in the previous book into this strong and sweet protector. While Everly has sworn off men, Jake will do whatever it takes to prove he’s the right man for their lives. The question is, can he do this before her past catches up to them?
This was a beautifully-written, steamy, small-town romance that is full of beachy vibes and warm summer nights. I love that it followed the same timeline as One Good Move and gave us glimpses of Sierra and Grayson’s story from Jake’s perspective.
Tropes:
Small town
Reverse age gap (she’s 34, he’s 27)
Single mom
Found family
No third-act breakup
Thank you so much to Lily Miller and LoveNotes PR for the ARC.
May 15, 2024
2.75 ⭐️ This is what I consider a typical romance book. Now let me explain, I mainly read romance books but a lot of them will have deeper meanings or subplots other than the romance, I feel like this book didn’t. This follow Everly and Jake, and it’s a reverse age gap, small town, single mom romance. I saw the tropes and immediately was excited for it and requested an e-arc and was able to get it, so thank you for that! Unfortunately, I found the romance to be somewhat unbelievable, it was very surface level. Especially, for it to be a single parent romance, I found it to be very quick, easy, and not at all realistic. I really would’ve wish to see more depth between the main characters, more of their relationship grow but I didn’t really feel it. Also, I don’t really like when I’m not witnessing the characters fall in love, I’m more so being told about it and that’s how I felt this went, which didn’t allow me to be invested in their relationship. Maybe, I’m not the target audience for this book, but I found it to be very forgettable.
April 24, 2024
4.5⭐️
Thank you to LoveNotesPR and Lily Miller for a ARC copy of this book.
This was such a cute steamy read. Also we had no third act break up which just made me love this book even more. This is the second book in an interconnected series. This book follows Jake and Everly as well as Everly's daughter Birdie.
The love we see through this book will melt your heart, also if you love cute kid characters in books be prepared to have your heart stolen by Birdie. Jake and Everly have a 7 year age gap which she likes to use as an excuse to not be with him even though her attract to him is undeniable, she is afraidof getting hurt again after her ex-husband cheated on her repeatedly and overall was just not a nice person or father to their daughter, we see how this man (Jake) makes sure that Everly and Birdie feel the love and care they were always supposed to feel, he shows them what a family is supposed to be.
I can not wait for the next book which will be Tuckers book who is one of Jake's best friends.
Tropes:
♡ Single mom
♡ Small town
♡ Reverse Age Gap
♡ No third act break up
Thank you to LoveNotesPR and Lily Miller for a ARC copy of this book.
This was such a cute steamy read. Also we had no third act break up which just made me love this book even more. This is the second book in an interconnected series. This book follows Jake and Everly as well as Everly's daughter Birdie.
The love we see through this book will melt your heart, also if you love cute kid characters in books be prepared to have your heart stolen by Birdie. Jake and Everly have a 7 year age gap which she likes to use as an excuse to not be with him even though her attract to him is undeniable, she is afraidof getting hurt again after her ex-husband cheated on her repeatedly and overall was just not a nice person or father to their daughter, we see how this man (Jake) makes sure that Everly and Birdie feel the love and care they were always supposed to feel, he shows them what a family is supposed to be.
I can not wait for the next book which will be Tuckers book who is one of Jake's best friends.
Tropes:
♡ Single mom
♡ Small town
♡ Reverse Age Gap
♡ No third act break up
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2024
This is my first read from Lily Miller and I really enjoyed this book. This book has some of my favorite tropes - age gape, single mom and small town.
Everly is an amazing single mom who’s new to town…she’s starting over after leaving a jerk of an ex husband. She has some scars that she needs to work through and is not interested in any man.
Jake is wise beyond his years and has an amazing heart. She’s instantly attracted to Everly and will find a way to win her heart.
Birdie is such a sweet girl who often steals the scene!
Jake comes into Everly’s life at the perfect time…he is patient, kind, caring and completely smitten with her. I love how he demonstrates how he cares for her and has an immediate bond with Birdie.
A fantastic read that will make your heart swoon and fall in love with these amazing characters.
Everly is an amazing single mom who’s new to town…she’s starting over after leaving a jerk of an ex husband. She has some scars that she needs to work through and is not interested in any man.
Jake is wise beyond his years and has an amazing heart. She’s instantly attracted to Everly and will find a way to win her heart.
Birdie is such a sweet girl who often steals the scene!
Jake comes into Everly’s life at the perfect time…he is patient, kind, caring and completely smitten with her. I love how he demonstrates how he cares for her and has an immediate bond with Birdie.
A fantastic read that will make your heart swoon and fall in love with these amazing characters.
April 28, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
🌶🌶🌶
Everly and Jake
Everly's ex-husband is the scum of the earth. Unable to keep his little member in his pants for even a second, and she's done with his cheating butt.
So, she packs up her bags and takes her little girl to the small town of Reed Point. Closer to her parents so that she can start over. What she didn't expect was for Jake Matthews, a younger man, to enter her life and have her falling fast.
Jake knew she was the one the moment he saw her on the beach. He also knew he needed to take it slow and convince her that he was here to stay.
Okay, so this book was really cute. I did find it repetitive at times and a bit cheesy, but I loved the storyline and the overall lightness of the story.
🌶🌶🌶
Everly and Jake
Everly's ex-husband is the scum of the earth. Unable to keep his little member in his pants for even a second, and she's done with his cheating butt.
So, she packs up her bags and takes her little girl to the small town of Reed Point. Closer to her parents so that she can start over. What she didn't expect was for Jake Matthews, a younger man, to enter her life and have her falling fast.
Jake knew she was the one the moment he saw her on the beach. He also knew he needed to take it slow and convince her that he was here to stay.
Okay, so this book was really cute. I did find it repetitive at times and a bit cheesy, but I loved the storyline and the overall lightness of the story.
May 5, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Let me start out by saying that small-town romances and the single mom trope are not usually my cup of tea, HOWEVER, “play for keeps” blew me away!
Play for Keeps is set during the same time as One Good Move and follows Sierra’s older brother. In the second book of the Haven Harbor series, we watch Jake forget about his grumpiness and fall head over heels for Everly and her daughter Birdie.
Jake and Everly were everything to me. From the beginning we learn that Jake is 7 years younger than Everly, however, that was never going to stop him. The way that Jake basically fell in love with Everly from the first moment he saw her and made that clear to us by the way he spoke about her and Birdie, showed such a level of maturity to me (I was drooling).
Throughout the story, we learn that Everly moved to Reed Point to get away from her tool of an ex-husband, in order to start fresh with her daughter, Birdie. The love that Everly has for Birdie is out of this world and that is made clear by her reluctance to date Jake. However, Jake quickly won over both Birdie and Everly (and me).
At first glance of the cover, you wouldn’t expect there to be spice, but oh boy, let me tell you – Jake had a mouth on him. I had to take a few moments to cool down after certain scenes (I’m talking about you bathroom scene).
Thank you so much Lily and Love Notes PR for giving me the chance to read this ARC! I can’t wait to read Tucker’s book and see what he has in store!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Let me start out by saying that small-town romances and the single mom trope are not usually my cup of tea, HOWEVER, “play for keeps” blew me away!
Play for Keeps is set during the same time as One Good Move and follows Sierra’s older brother. In the second book of the Haven Harbor series, we watch Jake forget about his grumpiness and fall head over heels for Everly and her daughter Birdie.
Jake and Everly were everything to me. From the beginning we learn that Jake is 7 years younger than Everly, however, that was never going to stop him. The way that Jake basically fell in love with Everly from the first moment he saw her and made that clear to us by the way he spoke about her and Birdie, showed such a level of maturity to me (I was drooling).
Throughout the story, we learn that Everly moved to Reed Point to get away from her tool of an ex-husband, in order to start fresh with her daughter, Birdie. The love that Everly has for Birdie is out of this world and that is made clear by her reluctance to date Jake. However, Jake quickly won over both Birdie and Everly (and me).
At first glance of the cover, you wouldn’t expect there to be spice, but oh boy, let me tell you – Jake had a mouth on him. I had to take a few moments to cool down after certain scenes (I’m talking about you bathroom scene).
Thank you so much Lily and Love Notes PR for giving me the chance to read this ARC! I can’t wait to read Tucker’s book and see what he has in store!
May 8, 2024
Received as an ARC in return for my honest review.
🕊️ Single parent
🕊️ Small town
🕊️ Reverse age gap
🕊️ No third act breakup 🙌🏻
I love Jake and Everly!!! Ok now that’s off my chest let’s get down to business.This was my first read from Lily and her writing style is top tier, just what you want in a small town contemporary romance that needs to convey the emotions of its characters. Birdie was the sweetest little girl and the relationship she built with Jake was beautiful.
I hadn’t read the first book in this series before starting and it didn’t impact my ability to enjoy this story in the slightest, very much an interconnected standalone situation. I will however 100% be going back to read the first one and then every one hereafter.
I can’t wait to see what’s next to come ☺️
🕊️ Single parent
🕊️ Small town
🕊️ Reverse age gap
🕊️ No third act breakup 🙌🏻
I love Jake and Everly!!! Ok now that’s off my chest let’s get down to business.This was my first read from Lily and her writing style is top tier, just what you want in a small town contemporary romance that needs to convey the emotions of its characters. Birdie was the sweetest little girl and the relationship she built with Jake was beautiful.
I hadn’t read the first book in this series before starting and it didn’t impact my ability to enjoy this story in the slightest, very much an interconnected standalone situation. I will however 100% be going back to read the first one and then every one hereafter.
I can’t wait to see what’s next to come ☺️
May 10, 2024
We are back in Haven Harbor for book two, and we get to know Jake better. He caught my attention in book one.
Everly is starting over, freshly divorced from her slimy cheating ex. She and her daughter have landed in Haven Harbor where she is currently a waitress. She puts her daughter first, and only offers friendship to Jake.
I love how Jake is with both Everly and her daughter. He shows her what a relationship should be, and spoils her daughter. Jake is present for the important things and shows his girls he is in their lives in ways her ex never was.
It is so easy to fall for both Jake and Everly. Their story pulled me in and held me until the end.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Everly is starting over, freshly divorced from her slimy cheating ex. She and her daughter have landed in Haven Harbor where she is currently a waitress. She puts her daughter first, and only offers friendship to Jake.
I love how Jake is with both Everly and her daughter. He shows her what a relationship should be, and spoils her daughter. Jake is present for the important things and shows his girls he is in their lives in ways her ex never was.
It is so easy to fall for both Jake and Everly. Their story pulled me in and held me until the end.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
May 11, 2024
❗️ARC Review
Star Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating:🌶🌶
Happy Ending (Engaged with a baby on the way (epilouge takes place a day before wedding))
❗️Safety & Small Spoilers Below❗️
📌 Triggers: Loss of a Parent (off-page) Cheating (Not between MCs) Sexual Assault (off-page (not involving MCs))
📌 No Cheating/Sharing
📌 OMD: FMCs ex-husband threatens her for custody of their child. Wants them to "come back home"
📌 OWD: MMC was heavily in love with his ex. He kept track of how long it'd been since she left him. However, when she did come back (86% mark), he was in love with FMC and let her go.
📌 No Third-act breakup
📌 Third-act separation: FMC and daughter returned to their hometown (where ex lived). MCs did not break up. They were only physically separated due to the move. They still kept in contact and visited each other regularly.
Star Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating:🌶🌶
Happy Ending (Engaged with a baby on the way (epilouge takes place a day before wedding))
❗️Safety & Small Spoilers Below❗️
📌 Triggers: Loss of a Parent (off-page) Cheating (Not between MCs) Sexual Assault (off-page (not involving MCs))
📌 No Cheating/Sharing
📌 OMD: FMCs ex-husband threatens her for custody of their child. Wants them to "come back home"
📌 OWD: MMC was heavily in love with his ex. He kept track of how long it'd been since she left him. However, when she did come back (86% mark), he was in love with FMC and let her go.
📌 No Third-act breakup
📌 Third-act separation: FMC and daughter returned to their hometown (where ex lived). MCs did not break up. They were only physically separated due to the move. They still kept in contact and visited each other regularly.
May 11, 2024
Another fantastic book by the wonderful Lily Miller. Returning to Haven Harbor we get Sierra’s brother Jake’s story. Jake is the perfect cinnamon roll MMC. Single mom is not my favorite trope, but I can’t skip books in a series, especially if Lily writes it.
Everly and Jake make my heart happy. Everly has been burned badly, her ex is a serious ass. I want to punch Grant the entire book, and I’m impressed that Jake was mature enough not to. She’s afraid to let Jake in, even though he works very hard to get her attention and her time. Jake is perfect with Birdie. He bonds with her instantly and clearly loves her.
The spice was on point. A whole lot of sexual tension, a little dominance and clear love.
Thank you Lily and LoveNotesPR for my ARC of this book. I can’t wait for book 3.
Everly and Jake make my heart happy. Everly has been burned badly, her ex is a serious ass. I want to punch Grant the entire book, and I’m impressed that Jake was mature enough not to. She’s afraid to let Jake in, even though he works very hard to get her attention and her time. Jake is perfect with Birdie. He bonds with her instantly and clearly loves her.
The spice was on point. A whole lot of sexual tension, a little dominance and clear love.
Thank you Lily and LoveNotesPR for my ARC of this book. I can’t wait for book 3.
April 23, 2024
This is one sweet and steamy single parent, age gap romance that will have you kicking your feet with joy. Everly has divorced her husband, and moved to Haven Harbor with her daughter, Birdie. Whilst working, she meets Jake. He’s instantly smitten but she can’t offer him anything more than friendship. She’s sworn off men, and he’s 7 years younger. Will they be able to resist one another?
Jake falls hard and fast for Everly and Birdie. He’s so dang cute with Birdie, and knows how to give Everly everything her and her daughter need, both emotionally and physically. He’s so sweet, and swoony, and together they are perfect for one another. The way Lily wrote these characters with such heart and tenderness was delightful and delicious. I want to live in this book world with them.
Thank you @authorlilymiller and @lovenotes.pr for the e-ARC of this story. I adored it, and am excited to read Tuckers story next. Sign me up now
Jake falls hard and fast for Everly and Birdie. He’s so dang cute with Birdie, and knows how to give Everly everything her and her daughter need, both emotionally and physically. He’s so sweet, and swoony, and together they are perfect for one another. The way Lily wrote these characters with such heart and tenderness was delightful and delicious. I want to live in this book world with them.
Thank you @authorlilymiller and @lovenotes.pr for the e-ARC of this story. I adored it, and am excited to read Tuckers story next. Sign me up now
April 24, 2024
-Single Mom
-Reverse Age Gap Shes 34 he’s 27
-Smalltown
-No third act breakup
-Found family
Book two in the Haven Harbor Series and it can be read as a standalone.I don’t typically gravitate towards reverse age gap but this is an example of how to do it right!
I love that the timeline overlaps slightly with the first book so there is a tiny glimpse about what Jake thinks about that here.
I loved Everly and Birdie right away. I was so excited to see Everly get her happily ever after. Her past was so sad and loved reading her get back her happy.
Jake is everything those two needed. His relationship with Birdie from the beginning was heartwarming and wholesome. I love how sweet he was, how determined he was and how protective. His and Everlys chemistry was perfect from the beginning.
I can not wait to see what’s next with Tucker!
-Reverse Age Gap Shes 34 he’s 27
-Smalltown
-No third act breakup
-Found family
Book two in the Haven Harbor Series and it can be read as a standalone.I don’t typically gravitate towards reverse age gap but this is an example of how to do it right!
I love that the timeline overlaps slightly with the first book so there is a tiny glimpse about what Jake thinks about that here.
I loved Everly and Birdie right away. I was so excited to see Everly get her happily ever after. Her past was so sad and loved reading her get back her happy.
Jake is everything those two needed. His relationship with Birdie from the beginning was heartwarming and wholesome. I love how sweet he was, how determined he was and how protective. His and Everlys chemistry was perfect from the beginning.
I can not wait to see what’s next with Tucker!
May 4, 2024
RC review time! In this post I will be reviewing Play for Keeps by Lily Miller. Book 2 in the Haven Harbor series.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
This is one of the first ARC’s I have ever received and I want to say how grateful I am to have received this ARC from Love Notes PR.
I am happy that this opportunity to read and review this book has led me to find a new author that I really like. Play for Keeps was the perfect lighthearted small town romance with the appropriate amount of depth and realness. All characters in the book were a joy to read about (minus Grant of course iykyk). Jake is a book boyfriend we all need in our life, his character depth was perfect and I loved him in this book. Everly was also a great FMC and her adorable daughter Birdie. I thought the progression and plot of this book was pretty seamless and on par for the length. I loved all the tropes in this book, this is the first time I have read the reverse age gap trope and I thought it was very tastefully done. I also thought this book had the perfect level of spice, Jake and Everly’s connection was sexy, cute, and steamy. I was really worried there towards the end with the Jade situation (iykyk) but I think the author wrote the perfect plot twists/struggles to fit the character’s story and plot. I would love to go back and read Lily’s first book in the series and I had a great time reading this installment.
Thank you again to Love Notes PR for this opportunity! @lovenotes.pr @authorlilymiller
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
This is one of the first ARC’s I have ever received and I want to say how grateful I am to have received this ARC from Love Notes PR.
I am happy that this opportunity to read and review this book has led me to find a new author that I really like. Play for Keeps was the perfect lighthearted small town romance with the appropriate amount of depth and realness. All characters in the book were a joy to read about (minus Grant of course iykyk). Jake is a book boyfriend we all need in our life, his character depth was perfect and I loved him in this book. Everly was also a great FMC and her adorable daughter Birdie. I thought the progression and plot of this book was pretty seamless and on par for the length. I loved all the tropes in this book, this is the first time I have read the reverse age gap trope and I thought it was very tastefully done. I also thought this book had the perfect level of spice, Jake and Everly’s connection was sexy, cute, and steamy. I was really worried there towards the end with the Jade situation (iykyk) but I think the author wrote the perfect plot twists/struggles to fit the character’s story and plot. I would love to go back and read Lily’s first book in the series and I had a great time reading this installment.
Thank you again to Love Notes PR for this opportunity! @lovenotes.pr @authorlilymiller
April 27, 2024
This is the first book that I’ve read from Lily Miller and I just wanted to thank you for this arc.
I don’t normally like to read books with age gap, but this romance read made me fall in love. It was beautifully written, and it’s so realistic which makes me fall more in love with this book. Honestly, truly amazing!
I think I forgot to mention that I’m absolutely in LOVE with Jake. Just seeing how he connected and bonded with Birdie, was really touching and sweet.
I can’t wait to read more from Lily!
April 23, 2024
Jake Matthews is goals!!! Fresh off a divorce, with a 7 year old daughter, 34 year old Everly has moved back home to be close to her parents. She’s waiting tables at a bar where she first sees 27 year old Jake. He’s immediately smitten with her. They start out as friends and he meets her daughter Birdie and falls head over heels for her. The “just friends” between Jake and Everly doesn’t last long and oh my at the SPICE!!! But Everly is still terrified of getting hurt and even more so of Birdie getting hurt so there is a tiny bit of angst.
I don’t normally like age gap books where the woman is older but this one may have changed my mind on that! It’s such a good book. This story has “Hope Floats” feels and not just because the daughter’s name is Birdie. It the way Jake sees Everly and makes her see herself.
I don’t normally like age gap books where the woman is older but this one may have changed my mind on that! It’s such a good book. This story has “Hope Floats” feels and not just because the daughter’s name is Birdie. It the way Jake sees Everly and makes her see herself.
July 25, 2025
Cute Single Mom Reverse Age Gap
STORY
🌟🌟🌟🌟
SPICE
🌶️ spicy
RECOMMEND
💳 yes
Play for Keeps is my first Lily Miller romance & it is a super sweet small town romance. 🍭🍩🍫
Jake is the quintessential golden retriever. He falls first for Everly and her daughter Birdie and does whatever he can to make sure they are both happy, safe and loved.
Everly moves with her daughter to her home town for a fresh start away from her ex husband. When she leaves him, he cuts off his financial support. But Everly doesn't care. Her only priority is her daughter Birdie.
After bumping into her, Jakes wants Everly to give him a chance — even if means she puts him in the friend zone.
STORY
🌟🌟🌟🌟
SPICE
🌶️ spicy
RECOMMEND
💳 yes
Play for Keeps is my first Lily Miller romance & it is a super sweet small town romance. 🍭🍩🍫
Jake is the quintessential golden retriever. He falls first for Everly and her daughter Birdie and does whatever he can to make sure they are both happy, safe and loved.
Everly moves with her daughter to her home town for a fresh start away from her ex husband. When she leaves him, he cuts off his financial support. But Everly doesn't care. Her only priority is her daughter Birdie.
After bumping into her, Jakes wants Everly to give him a chance — even if means she puts him in the friend zone.
May 14, 2024
ARC review for 'Play for Keeps' by Lily Miller
The book centers around Everly and her ray of sunshine daughter, Birdie, who find refuge in Reed Point to escape a tumultuous and neglectful marriage. Determined to start anew, Everly embraces single parenthood with unwavering resolve, showcasing her kind and hardworking nature as a devoted mother. Her reluctance to open her heart to another man adds layers to her character and enriches the storyline. The catalyst for her transformative journey is the charismatic Jake Matthews.
Jake's entrance brings charm, rugged appeal, and genuine affection for Everly and Birdie, despite the age gap that raises doubts. His steadfast determination to prove himself as a worthy partner resonates with Everly, gradually transforming him from a protective figure to a caring and supportive presence. I found the progression of their relationship heartwarming and captivating.
What captivated me most about this story was Jake's patience and respect for Everly's boundaries, particularly in safeguarding Birdie. His attentiveness to Birdie's needs and unwavering support for Everly revealed his true character. The way he naturally looked out for their safety and well-being without being asked showcased his genuine care and consideration.
'Play for Keeps' offers a delightful romance filled with emotional highs and lows, culminating in a heartwarming conclusion that leaves readers with a sense of contentment and a longing for more glimpses into the charming world of Haven Harbor.
The book centers around Everly and her ray of sunshine daughter, Birdie, who find refuge in Reed Point to escape a tumultuous and neglectful marriage. Determined to start anew, Everly embraces single parenthood with unwavering resolve, showcasing her kind and hardworking nature as a devoted mother. Her reluctance to open her heart to another man adds layers to her character and enriches the storyline. The catalyst for her transformative journey is the charismatic Jake Matthews.
Jake's entrance brings charm, rugged appeal, and genuine affection for Everly and Birdie, despite the age gap that raises doubts. His steadfast determination to prove himself as a worthy partner resonates with Everly, gradually transforming him from a protective figure to a caring and supportive presence. I found the progression of their relationship heartwarming and captivating.
What captivated me most about this story was Jake's patience and respect for Everly's boundaries, particularly in safeguarding Birdie. His attentiveness to Birdie's needs and unwavering support for Everly revealed his true character. The way he naturally looked out for their safety and well-being without being asked showcased his genuine care and consideration.
'Play for Keeps' offers a delightful romance filled with emotional highs and lows, culminating in a heartwarming conclusion that leaves readers with a sense of contentment and a longing for more glimpses into the charming world of Haven Harbor.
October 14, 2024
I absolutely loved Jake and Everlys story. Birdie was perfect. They had up and downs but he was perfect for them. the chemistry was great and it was well written.
August 7, 2025
Ok I finished this book two days ago and honestly don’t have it in me to write a review rn🫣 love me a single parent trope and a MMC who falls first. I didn’t love how the timeline overlapped with the first book tbh but it was overlookable. Idk how many stars ? 3 seems fine lol
May 9, 2024
My first book read by author Lily Miller and she did not disappoint. This girl gave me all the feels with so much love and spice I couldn’t put the book down.
Jake is the hot single business guy who lost his first love after she broke it off and left out of country. He wasn’t looking for forever but when he runs into Everly he can’t stop thinking about her. Fate had other plans as these two continue to run into each other.
Everly is a divorced single mom to Birdie. Her ex husband was the worst and still trying to control her life until she moves a few hours away to be near her parents and start a new life. Her priority is her daughter. With her life feeling like a mess she doesn’t have time for another man in her life.
Relentless to get to know Everly, Jake seeks friendship and finds these two girls mean everything to him. Their friendship becomes something more these two can’t deny.
Such a romantic and sexy story that I couldn’t get enough of.
What to expect:
Age gap
Single mom
He falls first
Horrible ex
Friends to lovers
Spicy 🥵
Jake is the hot single business guy who lost his first love after she broke it off and left out of country. He wasn’t looking for forever but when he runs into Everly he can’t stop thinking about her. Fate had other plans as these two continue to run into each other.
Everly is a divorced single mom to Birdie. Her ex husband was the worst and still trying to control her life until she moves a few hours away to be near her parents and start a new life. Her priority is her daughter. With her life feeling like a mess she doesn’t have time for another man in her life.
Relentless to get to know Everly, Jake seeks friendship and finds these two girls mean everything to him. Their friendship becomes something more these two can’t deny.
Such a romantic and sexy story that I couldn’t get enough of.
What to expect:
Age gap
Single mom
He falls first
Horrible ex
Friends to lovers
Spicy 🥵
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