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It Started at the Lake
Fake dating my best friend’s cousin for the summer? Yes, please! No strings, no risks, no problems.
Camille
I’m on a man-ban. That’s right, no dating for me. Until my radar for picking morons gets fixed, I’m on a look-but-don’t-touch policy. During a summer vacation at my best friend’s lake house, her cousin Bennett comes up with the perfect plan. If we pretend we’re together, his meddling family will butt out of our love lives. But as we spend time with each other, my traitorous heart has other ideas. Like falling for the widower who’s completely off-limits. It’s just my luck that the one person I’d drop my restrictions for doesn’t want me for real.
Bennett
I know I need to get back to living a full life, but it’s hard when guilt and grief are a constant cloud raining over me. Things are going as well as a first water skiing lesson—disastrous—until I meet Camille at Lake Lloyd. She’s the best candidate to help me get my family off of my back about dating again. Our scheme is going great until she hints she wants our relationship to be real. How do I make room in my broken heart for her? How do I cherish my past without messing up my future? But if I don’t try, I risk chasing away the one person who makes me feel alive. I have no clue what to do. Why is faking it so much easier? If only love came with a guarantee.
It Started at the Lake is a sweet with a sprinkling of heat romance featuring a best friend's cousin, fake dating, age gap, found family, rich/poor, and opposites attract tropes.
Camille
I’m on a man-ban. That’s right, no dating for me. Until my radar for picking morons gets fixed, I’m on a look-but-don’t-touch policy. During a summer vacation at my best friend’s lake house, her cousin Bennett comes up with the perfect plan. If we pretend we’re together, his meddling family will butt out of our love lives. But as we spend time with each other, my traitorous heart has other ideas. Like falling for the widower who’s completely off-limits. It’s just my luck that the one person I’d drop my restrictions for doesn’t want me for real.
Bennett
I know I need to get back to living a full life, but it’s hard when guilt and grief are a constant cloud raining over me. Things are going as well as a first water skiing lesson—disastrous—until I meet Camille at Lake Lloyd. She’s the best candidate to help me get my family off of my back about dating again. Our scheme is going great until she hints she wants our relationship to be real. How do I make room in my broken heart for her? How do I cherish my past without messing up my future? But if I don’t try, I risk chasing away the one person who makes me feel alive. I have no clue what to do. Why is faking it so much easier? If only love came with a guarantee.
It Started at the Lake is a sweet with a sprinkling of heat romance featuring a best friend's cousin, fake dating, age gap, found family, rich/poor, and opposites attract tropes.
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2024
9 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Amanda P. Jones
11 books318 followersWhen not reading or writing (which is rare), Amanda loves to travel, camp, spend time with family and friends, and eat chocolate chip cookies—or any other excuse she can come up with to avoid doing housework. She lives in the Rocky Mountains with her husband and three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 18, 2024
“I’ve missed this. I’ve missed having someone to hold. Someone to talk to you. Someone to joke around with and go do things with.”
This was such a cute story, and a really fun summer/beach read!
Bennett is a widower of three years. His family encourages him to start dating again, but he’s still grieving for his wife and is sure it’s not possible to ever love anyone else.
Camille is on a self-imposed dating ban after too many bad dating experiences. She joins her best friend to spend the summer at their family lake house.
She and Bennett meet at the lake house and click with each other. After he’s pressured by his family, Bennett asks Camille to help get his family off his back by pretending to be his girlfriend.
She agrees and falls fast and hard for him, but when it seems like there is no room in his heart to fall in love again, she’s sure this relationship will stay a fake one.
But maybe things aren’t as hopeless as they seem. Camille makes Bennett feel alive again… if only he’s brave enough to risk his heart again.
You can expect:
Summer Vibes
Fake Dating
Found Family
Widower
Age Gap
Closed Door
Fun Banter
Tender Moments
HEA
Amanda is so good at creating heartwarming stories and characters I always fall in love with. If you like sweet and entertaining romcoms I think you’ll enjoy this one!
I received a copy from the author, but a positive review was not required.
This was such a cute story, and a really fun summer/beach read!
Bennett is a widower of three years. His family encourages him to start dating again, but he’s still grieving for his wife and is sure it’s not possible to ever love anyone else.
Camille is on a self-imposed dating ban after too many bad dating experiences. She joins her best friend to spend the summer at their family lake house.
She and Bennett meet at the lake house and click with each other. After he’s pressured by his family, Bennett asks Camille to help get his family off his back by pretending to be his girlfriend.
She agrees and falls fast and hard for him, but when it seems like there is no room in his heart to fall in love again, she’s sure this relationship will stay a fake one.
But maybe things aren’t as hopeless as they seem. Camille makes Bennett feel alive again… if only he’s brave enough to risk his heart again.
You can expect:
Summer Vibes
Fake Dating
Found Family
Widower
Age Gap
Closed Door
Fun Banter
Tender Moments
HEA
Amanda is so good at creating heartwarming stories and characters I always fall in love with. If you like sweet and entertaining romcoms I think you’ll enjoy this one!
I received a copy from the author, but a positive review was not required.
June 9, 2024
This was my first book by Amanda P. Jones, and it won’t be my last. Bennett & Millie’s story was emotionally gripping, yet sweet and heartwarming – it was just all the things. Their story is one that will stay with me for a long time.
Stars: 5/5
Spice: 0/5 (Closed-Door)
Bennett is a widower in the throes of grief after losing his wife three years ago when he goes to his family’s lake house for the summer. Camille (Millie) has just graduated college and when her internship falls through, her best friend convinces her to come along with her to her family’s lake house. Yep, the same lake house. So how do they decide to start fake dating when Bennett is just trying to make it from one day to the next and Millie has put herself on a man-ban?
Their entire story was just so sweet from the moment they met. But I did not expect it to put me through the ringer emotionally. I could feel the weight of Bennett’s grief from the beginning, but when I found out he feels an immense amount of guilt on top of it – for REASONS? It just ripped my heart to pieces. But Millie is such a breath of fresh air. And I just love them, okay? Honestly, if you love a sweet but emotional read and can handle stories that deal heavily with grief – I cannot recommend this book enough!
CW: Death of a spouse (past, off page), grief
Stars: 5/5
Spice: 0/5 (Closed-Door)
Bennett is a widower in the throes of grief after losing his wife three years ago when he goes to his family’s lake house for the summer. Camille (Millie) has just graduated college and when her internship falls through, her best friend convinces her to come along with her to her family’s lake house. Yep, the same lake house. So how do they decide to start fake dating when Bennett is just trying to make it from one day to the next and Millie has put herself on a man-ban?
Their entire story was just so sweet from the moment they met. But I did not expect it to put me through the ringer emotionally. I could feel the weight of Bennett’s grief from the beginning, but when I found out he feels an immense amount of guilt on top of it – for REASONS? It just ripped my heart to pieces. But Millie is such a breath of fresh air. And I just love them, okay? Honestly, if you love a sweet but emotional read and can handle stories that deal heavily with grief – I cannot recommend this book enough!
CW: Death of a spouse (past, off page), grief
May 12, 2024
Bennett and Camille absolutely won my heart! I think romances with a widowed character can be a really tough sell for me. I want to have that 'you're the one' feel... but I don't want it to take away from that first love either and I think finding that balance can be really tough. The way this one was handled felt like just that right balance and I absolutely adored it. Seeing Bennett learn to love again and to heal throughout the story made me root for his second chance at love all that much more. It was certainly an emotional read that had me reaching for the tissues, but it had a nice blend of humorous moments too that kept it from feeling too heavy overall. The chemistry between Bennett and Camille was fantastic, and I also loved the family banter throughout as well. I would absolutely love to see more stories with Bennett's family in the future... they were just so fun!
It Started at the Lake is a closed-door romance. There's a bit of innuendo and a lot of ogling, but nothing beyond kisses.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
It Started at the Lake is a closed-door romance. There's a bit of innuendo and a lot of ogling, but nothing beyond kisses.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
May 20, 2024
It Started At The Lake by Amanda P. Jones was a heartwarming sweet romance novel. This book will give you all the feels! There were so many funny moments that had me cracking up. As well as a few tears. Both main characters are polar opposites and have heartbreaking pasts. Bennett tragically lost his wife. Camille had a rough childhood and dating experiences. Bennett grew so much as a character. Jones did a wonderful job portraying his grief and his struggles to move forward. I liked that their romance started out as a friendship. They both helped each move forward. The romance is closed door with only kissing. Highly recommend if you love opposites attract, age gape, fake dating, and found family book tropes!
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
May 30, 2024
This book had all the feels necessary for a good romance. There were tender moments, which at times brought me to tears. I enjoyed getting to know the two main characters and learning what made them tick. Both Camille and Bennett brought baggage to the lake that summer as the ghosts of the past haunted them in their relationship status.
Camille is on a man ban. She has decided that she cannot choose well when meeting men, so she will just stay away from them. When she agrees to accompany her best friend to their family's lake cabin (or should I say mansion) for the summer, she does not count on all of the good looking men being around.
Bennett lost his wife, and he has never fully recovered. He knows he needs to get back to living, as this is what she would want for him, but he is just not interested. His family wants him to get back on the horse, so to speak. He comes up with a grand plan so that his family will leave him alone. He proposes that he and Camille will fake date for the summer. This will get his family off his back, and he can give Camille pointers on what she should not be doing when she is dating a man. I see a train wreck coming.
I loved everything about this book. The banter between the cousins and their pranks against one another had me snort laughing at times. All of the characters clicked with me. I could envision hanging out with any of them. I especially liked Camille and Bennett. They were so much stronger than they gave themselves credit.
This is the perfect read to start the summer off. It also makes a perfect beach read with all of the summer vibes coming off of the page. Caution - you may need a tissue or two in a few scenes, some were happy tears and some were sad tears.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Camille is on a man ban. She has decided that she cannot choose well when meeting men, so she will just stay away from them. When she agrees to accompany her best friend to their family's lake cabin (or should I say mansion) for the summer, she does not count on all of the good looking men being around.
Bennett lost his wife, and he has never fully recovered. He knows he needs to get back to living, as this is what she would want for him, but he is just not interested. His family wants him to get back on the horse, so to speak. He comes up with a grand plan so that his family will leave him alone. He proposes that he and Camille will fake date for the summer. This will get his family off his back, and he can give Camille pointers on what she should not be doing when she is dating a man. I see a train wreck coming.
I loved everything about this book. The banter between the cousins and their pranks against one another had me snort laughing at times. All of the characters clicked with me. I could envision hanging out with any of them. I especially liked Camille and Bennett. They were so much stronger than they gave themselves credit.
This is the perfect read to start the summer off. It also makes a perfect beach read with all of the summer vibes coming off of the page. Caution - you may need a tissue or two in a few scenes, some were happy tears and some were sad tears.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 4, 2024
Reader’s Notes:
– this is told from Bennett & Camille’s (Millie) points of view
– there is an age gap of about 7 years between them
– Bennett’s late wife passed 3 years prior after an accident; he still grieves her & places blame on himself for her death
– it is mentioned that a character’s parents were neglectful (past events)
Review:
This was such a sweet & emotional roller coaster of a read! I loved the rawness of Bennett & his grief/guilt over the death of his late wife. I loved that he was trying not only for his family, but also for himself & her to move forward with his life to a place that wasn’t steps behind before he lost her. I loved how we got to see so much of the cousins together horsing around with each other and playing games (so many of my favorite parts included all the cousins!). I loved how Millie fit into the family dynamics as a friend & later more. I loved that she had some trauma to work through as well as figuring out how to walk the line of friendship & more with Bennett. They both grew on their journeys in this story and I loved that they got to do it together!
Summary:
Bennett knows he needs to get on with his life despite the grief that wants to keep him down. And he’ll start by trying during the family vacation at Lake Llyod. Trying to put himself out there in family activities and in the world of dating, no matter how much the idea makes him recoil. But after trying a few different times to wade back into the dating pool, Bennett just can’t do it any more. Though he also doesn’t want to be constantly asked by his family members how his efforts are going. So he turns to the only person he feels he can for help: Millie. Millie feels safe and is his best chance at getting the family off his back. That is if Bennett can convince her to pretend to be dating him…
Millie came at her best friend’s insistence to Lake Llyod to spend time with her friend’s family for the summer. She hopes to be able to do things she was never able to do growing up and enjoy time not dating anyone. With her history of bad boyfriend choices, Millie needs time to figure out where she’s been going wrong. But her best friend’s cousins are making it hard for Millie to want to keep her ban in place. Especially Bennett. So when Bennett asks Millie to pretend to be his girlfriend for the summer & offers to help her figure out what’s going on with her date choices, Millie is all to willing to jump in. If only her heart was safe in the process…
– this is told from Bennett & Camille’s (Millie) points of view
– there is an age gap of about 7 years between them
– Bennett’s late wife passed 3 years prior after an accident; he still grieves her & places blame on himself for her death
– it is mentioned that a character’s parents were neglectful (past events)
Review:
This was such a sweet & emotional roller coaster of a read! I loved the rawness of Bennett & his grief/guilt over the death of his late wife. I loved that he was trying not only for his family, but also for himself & her to move forward with his life to a place that wasn’t steps behind before he lost her. I loved how we got to see so much of the cousins together horsing around with each other and playing games (so many of my favorite parts included all the cousins!). I loved how Millie fit into the family dynamics as a friend & later more. I loved that she had some trauma to work through as well as figuring out how to walk the line of friendship & more with Bennett. They both grew on their journeys in this story and I loved that they got to do it together!
Summary:
Bennett knows he needs to get on with his life despite the grief that wants to keep him down. And he’ll start by trying during the family vacation at Lake Llyod. Trying to put himself out there in family activities and in the world of dating, no matter how much the idea makes him recoil. But after trying a few different times to wade back into the dating pool, Bennett just can’t do it any more. Though he also doesn’t want to be constantly asked by his family members how his efforts are going. So he turns to the only person he feels he can for help: Millie. Millie feels safe and is his best chance at getting the family off his back. That is if Bennett can convince her to pretend to be dating him…
Millie came at her best friend’s insistence to Lake Llyod to spend time with her friend’s family for the summer. She hopes to be able to do things she was never able to do growing up and enjoy time not dating anyone. With her history of bad boyfriend choices, Millie needs time to figure out where she’s been going wrong. But her best friend’s cousins are making it hard for Millie to want to keep her ban in place. Especially Bennett. So when Bennett asks Millie to pretend to be his girlfriend for the summer & offers to help her figure out what’s going on with her date choices, Millie is all to willing to jump in. If only her heart was safe in the process…
June 25, 2024
It Started At The Lake
A Novel Written By Amanda P. Jones
Fiction - Romance
Published May 2024
283 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is a great one to kick off your summer reading. It takes place during the summer on fictional Lake Lloyd in New Hampshire.
Bennett Williams is a college professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He is headed to the family cabin, actually a mansion, in New Hampshire for the next three months to spend the summer. His cousin, Evelyn, has convinced her roommate and best friend, Camille, to spend the summer with her at the same family summer home.
Bennett is a widower who lost his wife, Jennifer, three years ago in a tragic accident. He is still grieving the lost of his wife and carrying guilt for her death. Despite urging from his mother, he is unable to move on.
Camille is pursuing her masters in business marketing at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She is on a break from dating after several disappointing relationships.
This story involves fake dating, an age gap, rich/poor, and found family.
There is much sadness in this story as Bennett tries to overcome his loneliness and start a new life without the love of his life.
I loved the closeness of the five cousins in this book. They enjoyed spending time with each other, and truly care about their well-being. I also liked how they welcomed Camille into their family and made her feel comfortable spending the summer with them.
“I’ve missed having someone to hold. Someone to talk to. Someone to joke around with and go do things with.”
A Novel Written By Amanda P. Jones
Fiction - Romance
Published May 2024
283 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is a great one to kick off your summer reading. It takes place during the summer on fictional Lake Lloyd in New Hampshire.
Bennett Williams is a college professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He is headed to the family cabin, actually a mansion, in New Hampshire for the next three months to spend the summer. His cousin, Evelyn, has convinced her roommate and best friend, Camille, to spend the summer with her at the same family summer home.
Bennett is a widower who lost his wife, Jennifer, three years ago in a tragic accident. He is still grieving the lost of his wife and carrying guilt for her death. Despite urging from his mother, he is unable to move on.
Camille is pursuing her masters in business marketing at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She is on a break from dating after several disappointing relationships.
This story involves fake dating, an age gap, rich/poor, and found family.
There is much sadness in this story as Bennett tries to overcome his loneliness and start a new life without the love of his life.
I loved the closeness of the five cousins in this book. They enjoyed spending time with each other, and truly care about their well-being. I also liked how they welcomed Camille into their family and made her feel comfortable spending the summer with them.
“I’ve missed having someone to hold. Someone to talk to. Someone to joke around with and go do things with.”
August 23, 2024
People often ask me about the books I read over the summer, especially when it comes to my favorite contemporary romance. My top pick is definitely "It Started At The Lake" by Amanda P. Jones. I can't count how many times I've recommended this book, and I’m excited to encourage you to read it too.
The story revolves around two interesting characters. Camile has decided to avoid men, she's on a man-ban, because of her past with bad relationships, while Bennett, a widower, is still coping with the loss of his wife from three years ago. It’s tough to see how deep his grief runs. Bennett, who is Evie's cousin and Camille’s roommate, invites her to spend the summer at the family "house." This novel cleverly mixes humor with the emotional journey of two people who gradually let down their walls, heal from their pasts, and open their hearts to love again. I found both characters relatable and was genuinely rooting for their happiness.
The side characters, especially Evie and Bennett’s family members, were also great. The fun banter among the siblings and cousins was delightful, and they really welcomed Camille into their family. The epilogue and bonus chapter were fantastic touches that made me so happy to see included.
It Started At The Lake is a warm and engaging read that stirs up a lot of feelings in readers. Watching Camille and Bennett heal is a fulfilling experience that will make you smile and maybe shed some tears. I can’t wait for more stories featuring the single cousins. To me, this romantic comedy definitely earns a solid 5-star rating.
The story revolves around two interesting characters. Camile has decided to avoid men, she's on a man-ban, because of her past with bad relationships, while Bennett, a widower, is still coping with the loss of his wife from three years ago. It’s tough to see how deep his grief runs. Bennett, who is Evie's cousin and Camille’s roommate, invites her to spend the summer at the family "house." This novel cleverly mixes humor with the emotional journey of two people who gradually let down their walls, heal from their pasts, and open their hearts to love again. I found both characters relatable and was genuinely rooting for their happiness.
The side characters, especially Evie and Bennett’s family members, were also great. The fun banter among the siblings and cousins was delightful, and they really welcomed Camille into their family. The epilogue and bonus chapter were fantastic touches that made me so happy to see included.
It Started At The Lake is a warm and engaging read that stirs up a lot of feelings in readers. Watching Camille and Bennett heal is a fulfilling experience that will make you smile and maybe shed some tears. I can’t wait for more stories featuring the single cousins. To me, this romantic comedy definitely earns a solid 5-star rating.
May 18, 2024
This was a sweet read! This is the first book that I have read by this author but I ended up enjoying it. It Started at the Lake is written by Amanda P Jones and it is a fun rom-com.
I really liked Bennett and Millie. They had an easy friendship that moved into something more. The romance was sweet and a slow burn. It was cool to read about Bennett and Millie connecting. They helped each other be better and deal with life. They both had to learn to let others in.
Bennett was a fun character. He was struggling to get over his wife’s death but he was trying to make the best of his time with his family. Millie had had a couple of mishaps with guys and so she wasn’t looking for a summer romance. I liked seeing both of the characters grow throughout the book. They had to learn who they were and figure out what was worth fighting for.
This was a fun book and I would recommend it! I did have a harder time getting into the book and connecting with the characters, but I was drawn in by the end. I enjoyed the side characters and I hope they get their own books. It Started at the Lake is a closed door romantic comedy.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
I really liked Bennett and Millie. They had an easy friendship that moved into something more. The romance was sweet and a slow burn. It was cool to read about Bennett and Millie connecting. They helped each other be better and deal with life. They both had to learn to let others in.
Bennett was a fun character. He was struggling to get over his wife’s death but he was trying to make the best of his time with his family. Millie had had a couple of mishaps with guys and so she wasn’t looking for a summer romance. I liked seeing both of the characters grow throughout the book. They had to learn who they were and figure out what was worth fighting for.
This was a fun book and I would recommend it! I did have a harder time getting into the book and connecting with the characters, but I was drawn in by the end. I enjoyed the side characters and I hope they get their own books. It Started at the Lake is a closed door romantic comedy.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
May 28, 2024
📚ARC Review 📚
It Started at the Lake⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bennett is slowly trying to move on from his wife’s tragic death. It’s been 3 years and his family is wanting him to find love again. After all, he is only 30 years old.
He takes his wedding ring off and goes to his family’s summer house to rest and get out of his head. While he is there, he meets Millie, his cousin
roommate, who is staying for the summer with them at the house. They agree to fake date to show his family he is moving on, but what if their feelings are for real? Is Bennett really over Jen?
Overall, I really liked this book. I liked how at the beginning a lot of it was from Bennett’s POV and then more of Millie’s towards the end. It really helped with getting a feeling of where he is coming from and what all he is dealing with. Both characters have hardships but with each other, they are learning to overcome them. The honesty and banter between them is good. You can tell they have instant chemistry. This book is also closed door, fade to black, which I like. It’s a great summer read! Be sure to add to your TBR list.
Thank you to Amanda Jones for my advanced readers copy. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.
July 1, 2024
This is a truly sweet story about Millie (Camille) who is starting a masters program and lives with her best friend Evie (Evelyn). She is on a man-ban due to bad past relationships. Millie’s paid internship gets cancelled for the summer so she decides to go with Evie to her families lake house do the summer. There she meets all of Evie’s family and cousins. Bennett is Evie’s oldest cousin, a successful college professor and is a widower and hasn’t been able to bring himself to get back out and try dating. Millie and Bennett develop a friendship and Bennett proposes a fake relationship to help him keep his family from pushing him to date and help Millie experience new adventures and understand why her relationships fail. At some point things change and real feelings develop. Warning there is a third act breakup but not to worry there is the sweetest happily ever after. I adored this book and loved how the author didn’t shy away from discussions on hard topics like healing after a loss or dealing with parental divorce and finding a healthy relationship. This is a great summer read with some depth!
June 14, 2024
This was a wonderful read for so many reasons, not the least of which was the swoony romance. I loved how we got to walk the whole story alongside Bennett and Millie, seeing not just the sweet and wonderful moments but the raw and tough moments. It was so much like what real life would be for a couple like this and I so enjoyed seeing how everything played out. The friendships they have were another favorite part of the story for me. Even though Bennett is related to most of them in some way, they are the best encouragers and cheerleaders for him. Evie was already Millie’s friend but the rest were so welcoming and kind to her that she found a family she had longed to belong to. Definitely add this book to your Summer TBR because it’s one you shouldn’t miss reading.
I received a copy of this ARC from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received a copy of this ARC from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
May 30, 2024
- Sweet romance
- Another chance at love
- Summer romance
- Fake relationship
My heart absolutely broke for poor Bennett. After the loss of his beloved wife, he is having a hard time moving forward. His well meaning family convinces him to come to their summer home for holiday. Although his family thinks he should start dating again, Bennett is not ready. Then he meets his cousin's friend, Millie, who is staying with them for the summer. She isn't looking for any type of relationship, but she feels drawn to Bennett.
To keep his family from pressing the issue on dating, Bennett and Millie agree to fake date for the summer, but somewhere along the way, they start to catch feelings for each other....
This book was so well done on an emotional level. I felt the grief that Bennett felt and cheered for this couple to have their HEA!
- Another chance at love
- Summer romance
- Fake relationship
My heart absolutely broke for poor Bennett. After the loss of his beloved wife, he is having a hard time moving forward. His well meaning family convinces him to come to their summer home for holiday. Although his family thinks he should start dating again, Bennett is not ready. Then he meets his cousin's friend, Millie, who is staying with them for the summer. She isn't looking for any type of relationship, but she feels drawn to Bennett.
To keep his family from pressing the issue on dating, Bennett and Millie agree to fake date for the summer, but somewhere along the way, they start to catch feelings for each other....
This book was so well done on an emotional level. I felt the grief that Bennett felt and cheered for this couple to have their HEA!
June 1, 2024
This was a very fun romance to watch play out.
Bennett lost the love of his life, and never thought he would move past it or be able to love anyone else. His wife would forever be apart of him and his past.
Camille is on a man ban. She needs to focus on finding a job and paying the bills. But her roomie Evie, Bennett's cousin, has convinced her to spend the summer with the family at the lake. But she might have unknowingly squashed her man ban when she agreed to fake date Bennett in order to get his family off his back about moving on.
I love how these two complimented each other, knowing exactly what the other needed in the midst of chaos and family. "You are the sunshine amidst my storm."
So many of Amanda's books are being added to my TBR! Love this book!
Bennett lost the love of his life, and never thought he would move past it or be able to love anyone else. His wife would forever be apart of him and his past.
Camille is on a man ban. She needs to focus on finding a job and paying the bills. But her roomie Evie, Bennett's cousin, has convinced her to spend the summer with the family at the lake. But she might have unknowingly squashed her man ban when she agreed to fake date Bennett in order to get his family off his back about moving on.
I love how these two complimented each other, knowing exactly what the other needed in the midst of chaos and family. "You are the sunshine amidst my storm."
So many of Amanda's books are being added to my TBR! Love this book!
June 4, 2024
I could not put this book down.
This was my first Amanda P. Jones book and now I need more.
So fun yet heartfelt. The setting was perfect and the whole family, especially all the cousins, added fun and humor to this wonderful story.
My heart broke for Bennett. He’s still mourning and holding onto guilt from his wife’s death 3 years ago. He’s still not ready to date, but when he meets his cousin’s best friend Millie, he’s surprised at the feelings she stirs within him.
Millie has made several bad choices in men. On a self-declared man ban, she’s determined to have a man free summer with her best friend and her family at their lake house. That is until she meets Bennett.
Finding that they enjoy each other’s company, they spend a lot of their time adventuring together. Bennett opens up a new world for Millie, who has lived a life with little consideration or adventure. From asking silly questions of each other, to spending quiet time at Bennett’s special place, their feelings change into something deeper and stronger than they ever could have imagined.
Tender and emotional story about moving forward, yet sweet and joyful too. I loved everything about this.
This is perfect for your summer reading. Start reading now and get swept into this lovely story.
I received a complimentary copy, but a positive review was not required.
This was my first Amanda P. Jones book and now I need more.
So fun yet heartfelt. The setting was perfect and the whole family, especially all the cousins, added fun and humor to this wonderful story.
My heart broke for Bennett. He’s still mourning and holding onto guilt from his wife’s death 3 years ago. He’s still not ready to date, but when he meets his cousin’s best friend Millie, he’s surprised at the feelings she stirs within him.
Millie has made several bad choices in men. On a self-declared man ban, she’s determined to have a man free summer with her best friend and her family at their lake house. That is until she meets Bennett.
Finding that they enjoy each other’s company, they spend a lot of their time adventuring together. Bennett opens up a new world for Millie, who has lived a life with little consideration or adventure. From asking silly questions of each other, to spending quiet time at Bennett’s special place, their feelings change into something deeper and stronger than they ever could have imagined.
Tender and emotional story about moving forward, yet sweet and joyful too. I loved everything about this.
This is perfect for your summer reading. Start reading now and get swept into this lovely story.
I received a complimentary copy, but a positive review was not required.
June 2, 2024
This romance will stay in my heart.
“Jen, do you want me to move on? Do you want me to have a second chance at a relationship? Not many people find love like ours. How do I let someone else in? Will you hate me if I fulfill our dreams without you? How do I let go of you enough to let someone else in without forgetting about you completely?” Emotions clog my eyes and tear ducts.
I wait for a response, but nothing happens. Wrestling with these questions, I think about what Millie said.
“Jen, your death wasn’t my fault. Was it? If I choose to believe Millie and lift this burden from my shoulders, am I honoring you or betraying you?
“Jen, do you want me to move on? Do you want me to have a second chance at a relationship? Not many people find love like ours. How do I let someone else in? Will you hate me if I fulfill our dreams without you? How do I let go of you enough to let someone else in without forgetting about you completely?” Emotions clog my eyes and tear ducts.
I wait for a response, but nothing happens. Wrestling with these questions, I think about what Millie said.
“Jen, your death wasn’t my fault. Was it? If I choose to believe Millie and lift this burden from my shoulders, am I honoring you or betraying you?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2024
It Started at the Lake" by Amanda P. Jones is a charming and heartfelt story that skillfully intertwines the fake dating and opposites attract tropes. Camille, on a self-imposed man-ban, and Bennett, a widower grappling with grief, find solace in each other during a summer at Lake Lloyd. Their pretend relationship sparks genuine feelings, leading to a delightful exploration of love and healing. Jones crafts a sweet, slow-burn romance with well-drawn characters and touching moments. This novel is a perfect read for fans of tender, emotionally resonant love stories with a guaranteed happy ending.
June 4, 2024
Bennett is Peter’s friend.
Peter is Bennett’s friend and co-worker.
Camille is Evelyn’s best friend
Evelyn is Camille roommate and friend.
Camille and Bennett meet at the lake house.
The attraction and sexual desire are there, but neither of them wants to commit to a relationship due to their past (Camille ex boyfriends and Bennett’s is the death of his wife).
This book has the necessary formula for romance, humor, banter, pranks from
All of the characters ( Ben, Camille, Evie, HENRY AND Emerson).
Can Bennett and Camille have a Happily Ever After?
Great Job Amanda P Jones !!!!!
Peter is Bennett’s friend and co-worker.
Camille is Evelyn’s best friend
Evelyn is Camille roommate and friend.
Camille and Bennett meet at the lake house.
The attraction and sexual desire are there, but neither of them wants to commit to a relationship due to their past (Camille ex boyfriends and Bennett’s is the death of his wife).
This book has the necessary formula for romance, humor, banter, pranks from
All of the characters ( Ben, Camille, Evie, HENRY AND Emerson).
Can Bennett and Camille have a Happily Ever After?
Great Job Amanda P Jones !!!!!
April 20, 2025
I loved this one. It’s an emotional journey for sure. Bennett is a widower with deep feelings of guilt and blames himself for his late wife’s death and not believing he is allowed to live a happy life again. Millie grew up in a neglectful home and always falls not great guys and is on a man ban until she can figure out how to go for the right kind of guy. Millie goes with her roommate/BFF (Evie) to her family lake house for the summer. Evie’s cousin Bennett is there and there is some family meddling happening. So they decide to fake date to get the family to leave them alone.
June 3, 2024
2.5⭐️
The premise of this book was super cute! I was intrigued since I always love a good summer vacation romance.
However, I didn’t vibe with it. I thought the characters acted younger than they were and that the MMC was really rude while the FMC jumped to conclusions. The “dating advice” didn’t sit well with me either.
I didn’t hate the story and found it had a lot of potential to make it a book I love. I can see a lot of people loving this one even though it missed the mark for me.
The premise of this book was super cute! I was intrigued since I always love a good summer vacation romance.
However, I didn’t vibe with it. I thought the characters acted younger than they were and that the MMC was really rude while the FMC jumped to conclusions. The “dating advice” didn’t sit well with me either.
I didn’t hate the story and found it had a lot of potential to make it a book I love. I can see a lot of people loving this one even though it missed the mark for me.
June 4, 2024
This was a sweet story of friendship, learning to love again, and finding love when you least expect it! Bennett and Camille both learned what it is to grow from pain and let yourself be loved again, and the fun moments sprinkled throughout those lessons made this book a definite one to add to any TBR!!
June 9, 2024
This was such a cute story. I was a little worried about Bennett being a widow because I haven’t read many stories like that but I loved the redemption in this story. I love how he found himself again and once he did that, he was able to open up to Camille more. I felt like their relationship was organic and I absolutely loved Camille’s personality.
This was a dual pov, clean romance.
This was a dual pov, clean romance.
July 5, 2024
ARC BOOK REVIEW 📖: IT STARTED AT THE LAKE by Amanda P. Jones
Rating: 4⭐️/5
Format: ebook
Thank you Amanda for sending me this ARC in exchange for my honest review and for allowing me the opportunity to be a member of your ARC team!
Synopsis: Camille (Millie) is a hard working and determined girl who has plans of interning over her summer before starting grad school. However, when her internship no longer needs her, her best friend Evelyn (Evie) begs her to come along on her family vacation. Before she knows it, she’s heading to the lake with her best friend on a man-ban. But when Millie sees Evie’s cousin, Bennett, a recent widower, her man-ban might be in question. Together, they conjure up a great plan and fake date. But how long will they be able to pretend before their true feelings are revealed?
Thoughts: I love stories that focus around the lake. Growing up, every year my family went to a family resort that’s built around a lake. Flash forward years later, that same lake is where my fiancé proposed. This book is perfect for summer! It’s an easy read filled with lovable characters. I loved the family dynamic between the cousins as it reminded me of my family. Definitely check it out if you love dual point of view, fake dating, best friend’s cousin, age gap, and second chance.
Favorite Quotes:
“He’s like a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich. So incredibly yummy, I could eat him right up.”
“You are sunshine amidst my storm”
Rating: 4⭐️/5
Format: ebook
Thank you Amanda for sending me this ARC in exchange for my honest review and for allowing me the opportunity to be a member of your ARC team!
Synopsis: Camille (Millie) is a hard working and determined girl who has plans of interning over her summer before starting grad school. However, when her internship no longer needs her, her best friend Evelyn (Evie) begs her to come along on her family vacation. Before she knows it, she’s heading to the lake with her best friend on a man-ban. But when Millie sees Evie’s cousin, Bennett, a recent widower, her man-ban might be in question. Together, they conjure up a great plan and fake date. But how long will they be able to pretend before their true feelings are revealed?
Thoughts: I love stories that focus around the lake. Growing up, every year my family went to a family resort that’s built around a lake. Flash forward years later, that same lake is where my fiancé proposed. This book is perfect for summer! It’s an easy read filled with lovable characters. I loved the family dynamic between the cousins as it reminded me of my family. Definitely check it out if you love dual point of view, fake dating, best friend’s cousin, age gap, and second chance.
Favorite Quotes:
“He’s like a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich. So incredibly yummy, I could eat him right up.”
“You are sunshine amidst my storm”
July 5, 2024
The author's books keep getting better and better, and this is my favorite yet! I didn't want to put it down, and it turned my family trip into a vacation every time I sat and read. I love the setting, the characters, and the creativity of each chapter. Millie and Bennett have become a new favorite couple. 🥰 If you need a new summer read, I highly recommend this one!
July 7, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much, it felt so real, I loved the way the author allowed Bennett to really feel the difficulties of losing a spouse at a young age, it was something I could relate to. I loved how Bennett and Millie became friends first; the chemistry was there but it was hard for Bennett to move on from his loss. But luckily we get a HEA and a beautiful story, so well written!
November 21, 2024
I could really relate with the emotions in this book since I married a widower. Amanda captured the depth and complexity of grief and moving on. She pulled me into the life of Millie and Bennett and thrilled me with their romance as it grew. Amanda is a great romance writer with plenty of clean heat.
May 24, 2024
There were so many things I loved about this book, but many of them would be spoilers so I won't go into detail.
But the conflict felt very realistic and the fake dating wasn't over-the-top. I especially loved the female main character for her optimism and strength.
A great summer read!
But the conflict felt very realistic and the fake dating wasn't over-the-top. I especially loved the female main character for her optimism and strength.
A great summer read!
May 29, 2024
Great dual pov story of Camille and Bennett. Loved the setting if having a summer vacation and how they met. My first book I have read of Amanda's stories so thank you for a Fantastic read and looking forward to this into a series if you make it one.
May 31, 2024
I loved this one. Widower’s second chance just tugs at my heart strings💙. Loved Bennett & Millie together. I loved Bennett got those protective & caring feelings for her right away-sweet man tried to deny those feelings haha but couldn’t resist. Now I need the rest of the sibling/cousin stories!
June 9, 2024
Great Setting
I am hoping we will see more of the family in other books. It has a great setting. I appreciated his deep love for his deceased wife. This author has potential to keep growing. 3-1/2 stars so I rounded up.
I am hoping we will see more of the family in other books. It has a great setting. I appreciated his deep love for his deceased wife. This author has potential to keep growing. 3-1/2 stars so I rounded up.
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