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Arcadia Creek #1
Love on Deck
He calls it fake dating, but she calls it caught between the devil and the deep blue sea.
Lauren Foley and Jack Fletcher already tried to be amicable once—on a blind date that ended in complete disaster. Now, years later, they have to put up with each other for the sake of her sister and his best friend, who are eloping on a cruise to the Bahamas. But that’s not the worst of it. No, Lauren’s in even deeper water when she finds herself agreeing to play Jack’s fake girlfriend for the duration of the cruise.
Now the only thing on her mind is trying not to strangle him when he dials up the charm, but it becomes harder to remember exactly why she ever hated him in the first place. Jack, on the other hand, is enjoying the perks.
Until the cruise lands on American soil again and real life hits them square in the face. Lauren is up for a promotion at work, and Jack promised her something that would secure it. But promises are easily broken, vacation life doesn’t always translate to the real world, and sometimes enemies start that way for a reason.
Book one in the Arcadia Creek romance series, Love on Deck is a fake dating enemies-to-lovers story with forced proximity and a happily ever after. This modern romance will also introduce you to small town Texas and show you just how cozy it can be.
Lauren Foley and Jack Fletcher already tried to be amicable once—on a blind date that ended in complete disaster. Now, years later, they have to put up with each other for the sake of her sister and his best friend, who are eloping on a cruise to the Bahamas. But that’s not the worst of it. No, Lauren’s in even deeper water when she finds herself agreeing to play Jack’s fake girlfriend for the duration of the cruise.
Now the only thing on her mind is trying not to strangle him when he dials up the charm, but it becomes harder to remember exactly why she ever hated him in the first place. Jack, on the other hand, is enjoying the perks.
Until the cruise lands on American soil again and real life hits them square in the face. Lauren is up for a promotion at work, and Jack promised her something that would secure it. But promises are easily broken, vacation life doesn’t always translate to the real world, and sometimes enemies start that way for a reason.
Book one in the Arcadia Creek romance series, Love on Deck is a fake dating enemies-to-lovers story with forced proximity and a happily ever after. This modern romance will also introduce you to small town Texas and show you just how cozy it can be.
9 pages, Audiobook
First published January 1, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 585 reviews
May 31, 2025
AMAZING!!! What a sweet, wholesome, and delightful contemporary romance that kept me smiling, laughing and swooning the whole time!! Love on Deck follows the story of two individuals who once attempted a blind date, only for it to end in disaster. Years later, they must tolerate each other's company for the sake of her sister and his best friend, who are eloping on a cruise to the Bahamas. Now, they find themselves in even deeper water when they agree to fake date for the duration of the cruise! Overflowing with witty banter, incredible chemistry, amazing secondary characters, and a clean romance with sweet kisses. This is my first read by Kasey Stockton and I can safely say it will not be my last! I absolutely LOVED this book so much and is easily one of my favorite romance books for 2024!!! 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
Tropes/Themes:
🛳️Fake Dating
🛳️Enemies to Lovers
🛳️Slow Burn Romance
🛳️Forced Proximity
🛳️Opposites Attract
🛳️Found Family
🛳️Second Chance
Overall, I was completely captivated from start to finish! I was thrilled to discover that this story is part of a series, and book two was just announced. I eagerly await more adventures with these characters! I wholeheartedly recommend and it deserves all the stars!!! 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Tropes/Themes:
🛳️Fake Dating
🛳️Enemies to Lovers
🛳️Slow Burn Romance
🛳️Forced Proximity
🛳️Opposites Attract
🛳️Found Family
🛳️Second Chance
Overall, I was completely captivated from start to finish! I was thrilled to discover that this story is part of a series, and book two was just announced. I eagerly await more adventures with these characters! I wholeheartedly recommend and it deserves all the stars!!! 🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Did Not Finish
February 12, 2024DNF at 20%
It's probably the grudge holder in me, but I can't get past what he did, despite it being two years ago. Lauren (h) and Jack (H) were set up on a blind date by Lauren's sister and Jack's best friend, and it was a total disaster. So what happened?
Note: "Her" is their waitress
And in the story, they were stuck for eight days because it's her sister's and his best friend's wedding party. A college friend (OW) of the sister was invited who's got the hots for Jack, and Jack out of nowhere lied to the OW that he and Lauren are in a relationship. So they fake dated since day one to keep off the OW.
I skimmed it, and within a few days, at 53%, he told her that he's falling for her, sure buddy, whatever you say. Also, after that confession, this was his lame line about their failed date.
There you go, aaaand I'm out! 👋
It's probably the grudge holder in me, but I can't get past what he did, despite it being two years ago. Lauren (h) and Jack (H) were set up on a blind date by Lauren's sister and Jack's best friend, and it was a total disaster. So what happened?
Note: "Her" is their waitress
H: “You left before I kissed her.”
h: “I left because you kissed her,”
H: “She was waiting for me when I came out of the bathroom to tell me you’d left. We talked for a minute, and she kissed me, which wasn’t expected. It took me a while to stop her.”
h: “I saw you guys, Jack. It took a long while.”
H: “Why would she lie about you leaving?”
h: “I took a phone call.”
H: “So she assumed . . . and then you came back and saw us. [...] I’m not proud. But I didn’t seek her out. I knew her already—her cousin worked in my office and we’d hung out before. It wasn’t like she was a total stranger. I don’t kiss every attractive woman I speak to.”
h: “You were on a date with someone else, though.”
H: “I didn’t know that. I thought the date had ended.”
h: “It doesn’t matter. It’s the past, and it’s why we don’t have a future.”
H: “That’s why you left the restaurant and didn’t return any of my texts.”
And in the story, they were stuck for eight days because it's her sister's and his best friend's wedding party. A college friend (OW) of the sister was invited who's got the hots for Jack, and Jack out of nowhere lied to the OW that he and Lauren are in a relationship. So they fake dated since day one to keep off the OW.
I skimmed it, and within a few days, at 53%, he told her that he's falling for her, sure buddy, whatever you say. Also, after that confession, this was his lame line about their failed date.
“I’m sorry, Lauren. I’m sorry for what happened on our date. I regret it, and I don’t know what I was thinking—well, I wasn’t thinking, obviously. I should have looked for you. Can you find it in you to forgive me? To give me a real chance?”
There you go, aaaand I'm out! 👋
September 8, 2023
Let me tell you, the snappy banter in this enemies-to-lovers, fake-dating romance was SO GOOD. Jack was a relentless flirt to the nth degree; the perfect sunshiny opponent for the spreadsheet-loving, workaholic Lauren. The constant sultry whispers, nicknames, and slight touches had me unravelling with giddiness.
Lauren Foley has despised Jack Fletcher since their blind date two years ago. But now with her sister eloping onboard a cruise, plans to avoid Jack become even more hopeless—he being the best man, of course. And the cherry on top? To ward off an annoyingly persistent bridesmaid, Jack ropes Lauren into a temporary scheme of pretending to be his girlfriend.
With its transition into a cozy small-town setting, and a sweet family reunion, I am officially invested in Arcadia Creek and the Fletcher brothers. I am really looking forward to the next release, Falling in Line: A Second Chance Romance!
(heat level: kissing only)
Lauren Foley has despised Jack Fletcher since their blind date two years ago. But now with her sister eloping onboard a cruise, plans to avoid Jack become even more hopeless—he being the best man, of course. And the cherry on top? To ward off an annoyingly persistent bridesmaid, Jack ropes Lauren into a temporary scheme of pretending to be his girlfriend.
With its transition into a cozy small-town setting, and a sweet family reunion, I am officially invested in Arcadia Creek and the Fletcher brothers. I am really looking forward to the next release, Falling in Line: A Second Chance Romance!
(heat level: kissing only)
August 31, 2023
Y'all this book was just so stinkin' cute!!! I couldn't even get enough of Lauren and Jack! These two had a major kerfuffle on their first and only blind date together! Like, make me want to cover my eyes and cringe over it all kerfuffle! And then two years later Lauren's sister is getting married to Jack's best friend and they find themselves on a cruise together for the wedding. Eeeekkk!!!! Seriously I would be like, no way at all will we be on a cruise together! But guess what, not only that but they keep ending up together. Hahaha! Oh, Lauren you're a saint girl! And to make matters worse? I know you're thinking, "It could get worse?" Yep, the answer is a loud resounding yep! They end up in a fake-dating relationship! Hahaha! Total Saint Lauren! But then again, the agreement will help them both, so what's a week stuck on a cruise ship together?
Seriously, you're going to LOVE this one! And I know I keep saying that Lauren is a saint, which she is, but honestly, Jack is pretty great too! Misunderstandings can definitely skew our sense of reality.
I loved the characters (minus one-you'll know who very quickly when you start reading it) and the fun and goodness that they bring to the story!
And we can't forget the whole small-town Texas aspect! Y'all better be ready for it all! I need more! So happy that this is only book one and that there'll be more of these characters and of Arcadia Creek! Woot Woot!!!
I just want to tell you so many things that I loved about this book and so many scenes. I was highlighting like crazy!!! If I could see the percentage that I highlighted, I'm sure it would be waaaaaaay more than half the book, probably even more than 75%! Just sayin'! *smirks*
Grab it! Read it! Laugh! Smile! Swoon! Cheer them on! Ache with them! And Fall in Love with them!!!
Content: Clean. Due to some circumstances, characters share a room but nothing happens, it is very clean. Some sweet kisses and nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Seriously, you're going to LOVE this one! And I know I keep saying that Lauren is a saint, which she is, but honestly, Jack is pretty great too! Misunderstandings can definitely skew our sense of reality.
I loved the characters (minus one-you'll know who very quickly when you start reading it) and the fun and goodness that they bring to the story!
And we can't forget the whole small-town Texas aspect! Y'all better be ready for it all! I need more! So happy that this is only book one and that there'll be more of these characters and of Arcadia Creek! Woot Woot!!!
I just want to tell you so many things that I loved about this book and so many scenes. I was highlighting like crazy!!! If I could see the percentage that I highlighted, I'm sure it would be waaaaaaay more than half the book, probably even more than 75%! Just sayin'! *smirks*
Grab it! Read it! Laugh! Smile! Swoon! Cheer them on! Ache with them! And Fall in Love with them!!!
Content: Clean. Due to some circumstances, characters share a room but nothing happens, it is very clean. Some sweet kisses and nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
August 12, 2023
I love when an author can jump genres and do it all so well. Love on Deck was so much fun. Second chance romance, enemies to lovers, and fake relationship. All done so well. The pacing of the book was perfect. I never got bored or wanted things to speed up. With dual points of view I could see into each character’s perspective, which helped me like them both more.
Lauren and Jack had an awful blind date years ago. Now Jack’s best friend and Lauren’s sister are getting married on a cruise trip with a small group of supportive friends. When Jack’s ex won’t leave him alone he talks Lauren into a fake relationship. I love fake relationships because it pushes the characters past their comfort level and into situations where they are forced to open up.
I loved these two main characters! They were so relatable and made me want to ditch suburbia. I loved the settings and people and was so exited when I realized the book was leading towards a series. I cannot wait for more! I’d been in a bit of an emotional funk and it was seeping into my ability to get lost in a book. This book completely pulled me out of that. I love when books do that!
Lauren and Jack had an awful blind date years ago. Now Jack’s best friend and Lauren’s sister are getting married on a cruise trip with a small group of supportive friends. When Jack’s ex won’t leave him alone he talks Lauren into a fake relationship. I love fake relationships because it pushes the characters past their comfort level and into situations where they are forced to open up.
I loved these two main characters! They were so relatable and made me want to ditch suburbia. I loved the settings and people and was so exited when I realized the book was leading towards a series. I cannot wait for more! I’d been in a bit of an emotional funk and it was seeping into my ability to get lost in a book. This book completely pulled me out of that. I love when books do that!
September 3, 2025
3.5 ★ | 16+
love on deck | kasey stockton
↷ 𝓂𝒾𝓃𝒾 𝓇ℯ𝓋𝒾ℯ𝓌 .ᐟ.ᐟ ₊˚🚢‧₊⊹ ៸៸
I loved the beginning! It was so fun and the CHEMISTRY oh my gosh 🤭 I loved the cruise setting, if felt so summery and fun.
But THEN 😤
The book did one of those annoying “the rest of the week was great and we went back home from the cruise” and then the second half of the book was set in Dallas. Ugh. Don’t get me wrong, I rather like Dallas (its a nice city) but I read this book for the cruise not for texas!
Side note to the author: ma’am please research light pollution before writing another book where they star gaze and talk about how dark the sky is in the country and how bright the stars are while being an HOUR away from Dallas, one of the biggest metros in the country. 😭
no content considerations because I have the worst memory, pls research before reading it if you are a minor!! (Its no spice but still)
love on deck | kasey stockton
↷ 𝓂𝒾𝓃𝒾 𝓇ℯ𝓋𝒾ℯ𝓌 .ᐟ.ᐟ ₊˚🚢‧₊⊹ ៸៸
I loved the beginning! It was so fun and the CHEMISTRY oh my gosh 🤭 I loved the cruise setting, if felt so summery and fun.
But THEN 😤
The book did one of those annoying “the rest of the week was great and we went back home from the cruise” and then the second half of the book was set in Dallas. Ugh. Don’t get me wrong, I rather like Dallas (its a nice city) but I read this book for the cruise not for texas!
Side note to the author: ma’am please research light pollution before writing another book where they star gaze and talk about how dark the sky is in the country and how bright the stars are while being an HOUR away from Dallas, one of the biggest metros in the country. 😭
no content considerations because I have the worst memory, pls research before reading it if you are a minor!! (Its no spice but still)
October 4, 2025
(Pretty Clean Adult RomCom)
🛳️Love on Deck by Kasey Stockton🛳️
That was cute! There was some things I didn’t like thooo… like that third-act breakup 😑😑😑
Lauren wasn’t my favorite either. Jack was such a darling! The enemies to lovers was more one sided and I wasn’t vibing with it as much… I would say it has more of the Fake Dating trope. The romance was great though!
I didn’t dislike it, it just wasn’t something “grand” in my eyes.
P.S. 🤭 I loved the cruise and Amelia’s wedding!
RTC (maybe)
Age recommendation: 16+ (if you’ve read romcoms before and are not fazed by more kissing then maybe 15+)
3.5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
~ No Spice ( passionate kisses (didn’t get overly detailed), babe is said)
~ No Language (freaking, stupid, and what the heck)
~ No LGBTQ+ content
🛳️Love on Deck by Kasey Stockton🛳️
That was cute! There was some things I didn’t like thooo… like that third-act breakup 😑😑😑
Lauren wasn’t my favorite either. Jack was such a darling! The enemies to lovers was more one sided and I wasn’t vibing with it as much… I would say it has more of the Fake Dating trope. The romance was great though!
I didn’t dislike it, it just wasn’t something “grand” in my eyes.
P.S. 🤭 I loved the cruise and Amelia’s wedding!
RTC (maybe)
Age recommendation: 16+ (if you’ve read romcoms before and are not fazed by more kissing then maybe 15+)
3.5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
~ No Spice ( passionate kisses (didn’t get overly detailed), babe is said)
~ No Language (freaking, stupid, and what the heck)
~ No LGBTQ+ content
August 30, 2023
I've never wanted to highlight pretty much the whole entire book like I wanted to with this one.
This story has everything I love and I've been waiting for a time to savor every delicious moment, every dripping-with-chemistry interaction, and every witty word. I'm not kidding when I say I wanted to highlight all of it. Stockton knows just how to word things in clever ways that had me laughing and swooning through every single page.
Can we talk about Jack and Lauren for a minute? For very good reasons, their blind date two years ago didn't work out and a fierce hatred for one another developed. Now on a cruise for his best friend and her sister (and only family), they strike up a sudden, mutually beneficial (and very much appreciated) fake relationship with a bonus bargain, and I couldn't get enough of it. This reverse grumpy sunshine (he's the sunshine and she's the serious grump) delivered many great moments of learning to go with the flow, let the hair down, and think of the bigger picture.
"Jack stepped a little close, making his cologne fly up my nose against my will. It had a weird effect of calming me and grating at me at the same time. Stupid, hot, nice-smelling man who wanted to share my room and my personal space." Jack was absolute persistent perfection. Who could resist him?? Lauren, all work driven and spreadsheet obsessed, wasn't immune (and truth be told, I wasn't either). These characters--oh, how I LOVE and ADORE them!
I loved the character development and the twists this story took. In fact, Love on Deck is a solid contender for favorite book of the year! And the best part? It's Book 1 of a new series!
Content: mild+ romance (kissing, shared room)
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
This story has everything I love and I've been waiting for a time to savor every delicious moment, every dripping-with-chemistry interaction, and every witty word. I'm not kidding when I say I wanted to highlight all of it. Stockton knows just how to word things in clever ways that had me laughing and swooning through every single page.
Can we talk about Jack and Lauren for a minute? For very good reasons, their blind date two years ago didn't work out and a fierce hatred for one another developed. Now on a cruise for his best friend and her sister (and only family), they strike up a sudden, mutually beneficial (and very much appreciated) fake relationship with a bonus bargain, and I couldn't get enough of it. This reverse grumpy sunshine (he's the sunshine and she's the serious grump) delivered many great moments of learning to go with the flow, let the hair down, and think of the bigger picture.
"Jack stepped a little close, making his cologne fly up my nose against my will. It had a weird effect of calming me and grating at me at the same time. Stupid, hot, nice-smelling man who wanted to share my room and my personal space." Jack was absolute persistent perfection. Who could resist him?? Lauren, all work driven and spreadsheet obsessed, wasn't immune (and truth be told, I wasn't either). These characters--oh, how I LOVE and ADORE them!
I loved the character development and the twists this story took. In fact, Love on Deck is a solid contender for favorite book of the year! And the best part? It's Book 1 of a new series!
Content: mild+ romance (kissing, shared room)
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
August 21, 2023
'For the next week, I could put aside my well-founded hatred for Jack and make this the best wedding cruise Amelia could possibly hope for. She was my priority here, and I wasn't going to let anything get in the way of that.'
Kasey Stockton contemporaries are some of my favorite!
First, can we take a moment to appreciate this amazing cover? I'm in love!
This book is a mash-up of so many of my favorite tropes! Add in a cruise setting + small town setting and this book is a total win!
The enemies to lovers dialogue is perfect, the fake dating + forced proximity + one bed is perfect, and everything else in between will melt your heart or make you laugh! I loved that this book had so much fun to it that it was light and whimsical but still had a level of depth that made this book relatable.
I loved that Lauren was all about spreadsheets, order and precision and Jack was her complete opposite. It created so many fun scenes that I wont soon forget! Jack's nickname for Lauren was also perfection and trust me when I say YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!
Book two was just announced and I am very much anticipating more to this series because this book was all of the heart eyes, all of the stars and two very enthusiastic thumbs up!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content: Enemies to lovers, forced proximity, Best Man/Maid of Honor, fake dating, one bed, found family, death of close family member, weight of responsibility, fun banter, swoony romance, and kisses.
Kasey Stockton contemporaries are some of my favorite!
First, can we take a moment to appreciate this amazing cover? I'm in love!
This book is a mash-up of so many of my favorite tropes! Add in a cruise setting + small town setting and this book is a total win!
The enemies to lovers dialogue is perfect, the fake dating + forced proximity + one bed is perfect, and everything else in between will melt your heart or make you laugh! I loved that this book had so much fun to it that it was light and whimsical but still had a level of depth that made this book relatable.
I loved that Lauren was all about spreadsheets, order and precision and Jack was her complete opposite. It created so many fun scenes that I wont soon forget! Jack's nickname for Lauren was also perfection and trust me when I say YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!
Book two was just announced and I am very much anticipating more to this series because this book was all of the heart eyes, all of the stars and two very enthusiastic thumbs up!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content: Enemies to lovers, forced proximity, Best Man/Maid of Honor, fake dating, one bed, found family, death of close family member, weight of responsibility, fun banter, swoony romance, and kisses.
August 8, 2024
4.25 ⭐️
This was such a fun end-of-summer read that perfectly balanced light-heartedness with deep impact!
Jack & Lauren are majorly enemies-to-lovers (at least according to Lauren, haha) plus they have a reverse grumpy-sunshine dynamic. They were a blast to hang out with, and I loved taking a cruise vicariously through them as my weak stomach hates sailing. 😂
I found Lauren to be one of those relatable FMCs… structured, kinda uptight, allergic to spontaneity, no nonsense, struggles with anxiety, and not wanting to be a burden or inconvenience. As for the tough family relationships of both Lauren & Jack—whew—those were no joke, but they added such deep dimension to the story.
All around, this is a sunny sea-faring summer read with plenty of laughs and more than a few heart-melting moments!
This was such a fun end-of-summer read that perfectly balanced light-heartedness with deep impact!
Jack & Lauren are majorly enemies-to-lovers (at least according to Lauren, haha) plus they have a reverse grumpy-sunshine dynamic. They were a blast to hang out with, and I loved taking a cruise vicariously through them as my weak stomach hates sailing. 😂
I found Lauren to be one of those relatable FMCs… structured, kinda uptight, allergic to spontaneity, no nonsense, struggles with anxiety, and not wanting to be a burden or inconvenience. As for the tough family relationships of both Lauren & Jack—whew—those were no joke, but they added such deep dimension to the story.
All around, this is a sunny sea-faring summer read with plenty of laughs and more than a few heart-melting moments!
February 16, 2024
It honestly astonishes me how many romance writers hate women.
“When Kevin and Amelia set us up on a blind date, it had started well enough. She was intelligent, and I’d thought of her as a breath of fresh air compared to the women I typically saw. She could actually discuss things of value and had insight to share. None of that breathy, fluttering crap with Lauren. She’d felt authentic.”
Why do you hate women, Jack? Oh. Because your author does.
“When Kevin and Amelia set us up on a blind date, it had started well enough. She was intelligent, and I’d thought of her as a breath of fresh air compared to the women I typically saw. She could actually discuss things of value and had insight to share. None of that breathy, fluttering crap with Lauren. She’d felt authentic.”
Why do you hate women, Jack? Oh. Because your author does.
April 13, 2024
Just three now. The more I think about it, the more things I find I did not like. This is my second Kasey Stockton book and I feel about the same for both. I don’t know why, but her characters and I don’t mesh. But this just my personal opinion, don’t let it stop you from trying this book. 🫶🏻
July 11, 2026
Apparently, I am a sucker for the fake dating trope, and this book did not disappoint!
Lauren is a workaholic who wants to be on her laptop while on her sister's wedding cruise. Jack is the guy who refuses to let that happen.
Although Jack and Lauren had a blind date that could have ended better - Jack made out with the waitress and then left a less-than-stellar voicemail due to a butt dial - they decided to put their differences aside for the wedding weekend.
Jack begs Lauren to be his girlfriend to protect himself from one of the bridesmaids he dated briefly, and Lauren agrees because she wants his company's business for her hotel. The two begin to realize their feelings are not just pretend and that there is something between them. They have to decide whether to continue with the story they've told or come clean for a fresh start.
Is Lauren the grandmother of the group, as she believes, or does she and her sister not communicate well?
Can Jake & Lauren have a good relationship after their terrible first date? This book answers all of those questions that may arise while reading!
This was a fun, quick read, and if you want something light, this may be the book for you!
Lauren is a workaholic who wants to be on her laptop while on her sister's wedding cruise. Jack is the guy who refuses to let that happen.
Although Jack and Lauren had a blind date that could have ended better - Jack made out with the waitress and then left a less-than-stellar voicemail due to a butt dial - they decided to put their differences aside for the wedding weekend.
Jack begs Lauren to be his girlfriend to protect himself from one of the bridesmaids he dated briefly, and Lauren agrees because she wants his company's business for her hotel. The two begin to realize their feelings are not just pretend and that there is something between them. They have to decide whether to continue with the story they've told or come clean for a fresh start.
Is Lauren the grandmother of the group, as she believes, or does she and her sister not communicate well?
Can Jake & Lauren have a good relationship after their terrible first date? This book answers all of those questions that may arise while reading!
This was a fun, quick read, and if you want something light, this may be the book for you!
August 29, 2023
This was cute!! Full review coming soon
December 17, 2025
Love on Deck by Kasey Stockton is a cozy, feel‑good contemporary romance about Lauren Foley and Jack Fletcher, two people whose one disastrous blind date years ago left them firmly on the wrong foot, only to be thrown together again when their mutual friends elope on a cruise to the Bahamas and they end up pretending to be a couple for reasons of wedding logistics, flirtation, forced proximity and unexpected chemistry. It’s the first book in the Arcadia Creek series, known for its fake‑dating, enemies‑to‑lovers charm and small‑town Texan warmth.
From the very start I felt myself swept up in the way Lauren’s apprehension about Jack made sense: first impressions really matter when they’re that awkward. Jack, with his easy charm and gentle persistence, slowly chipped away at her defenses in that delightful slow‑burn way that makes enemies‑to‑lovers stories so satisfying. Their dynamic on the cruise was unpredictably warm. What should have been a week of discomfort became moments of laughter, unexpected vulnerability, and that thrilling spice when you’re both pretending and feeling. The ship setting made everything feel a little larger than life but also intimate, like you were quietly eavesdropping on the beginnings of something genuine.
Lauren isn’t just swept off her feet, she learns to forgive the past, and Jack isn’t just a flirt, he actually listens and shows kindness in ways that quietly mattered. Even when they step off the ship and face the real‑world consequences of their fake romance, career aspirations, miscommunication, boundaries, the way they navigate it feels like watching two people who could have walked away but choose instead to understand one another. There’s humor, warmth, and a sweet refusal to give up on kindness that lingers long after the last page.
I give Love on Deck 4 out of 5 stars. It made me feel cozy, hopeful, and genuinely invested in Lauren and Jack’s evolving connection. If you love slow‑burn fake‑dating romances with witty banter, a sunny setting and emotional depth that feels personal as well as playful, this is absolutely a charming, satisfying read that feels like a vacation on the page.
From the very start I felt myself swept up in the way Lauren’s apprehension about Jack made sense: first impressions really matter when they’re that awkward. Jack, with his easy charm and gentle persistence, slowly chipped away at her defenses in that delightful slow‑burn way that makes enemies‑to‑lovers stories so satisfying. Their dynamic on the cruise was unpredictably warm. What should have been a week of discomfort became moments of laughter, unexpected vulnerability, and that thrilling spice when you’re both pretending and feeling. The ship setting made everything feel a little larger than life but also intimate, like you were quietly eavesdropping on the beginnings of something genuine.
Lauren isn’t just swept off her feet, she learns to forgive the past, and Jack isn’t just a flirt, he actually listens and shows kindness in ways that quietly mattered. Even when they step off the ship and face the real‑world consequences of their fake romance, career aspirations, miscommunication, boundaries, the way they navigate it feels like watching two people who could have walked away but choose instead to understand one another. There’s humor, warmth, and a sweet refusal to give up on kindness that lingers long after the last page.
I give Love on Deck 4 out of 5 stars. It made me feel cozy, hopeful, and genuinely invested in Lauren and Jack’s evolving connection. If you love slow‑burn fake‑dating romances with witty banter, a sunny setting and emotional depth that feels personal as well as playful, this is absolutely a charming, satisfying read that feels like a vacation on the page.
January 12, 2025
THIS WAS FUN.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Kasey Stockton absolutely nailed all of the banter in this book. I was laughing and smiling and loving the intensity between Lauren and Jack. It was fun having the cruise ship setting and all of the antics that went along with that.
I loved the general plot between the main characters and how they had to work through some of their differences and work obligations to find that compatible ground between them. I loooved seeing all of Jack’s family and the small town goodness that came from going home.
Lauren’s sister did sideline some of the story for me. Her sub-plot felt very main plot in the second half and I was missing the conversations between Jack and Lauren. A sweet book overall though and I’m excited to see who’s story is next in the series.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Kasey Stockton absolutely nailed all of the banter in this book. I was laughing and smiling and loving the intensity between Lauren and Jack. It was fun having the cruise ship setting and all of the antics that went along with that.
I loved the general plot between the main characters and how they had to work through some of their differences and work obligations to find that compatible ground between them. I loooved seeing all of Jack’s family and the small town goodness that came from going home.
Lauren’s sister did sideline some of the story for me. Her sub-plot felt very main plot in the second half and I was missing the conversations between Jack and Lauren. A sweet book overall though and I’m excited to see who’s story is next in the series.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
October 3, 2023
A blind date gone wrong and Lauren and Jack would really just rather not occupy the same space. But her sister is eloping with his best friend and playing nice seems like the best gift they could give. An unexpected bridesmaid's attendence has Jack desperate to appear taken and the nearest accomplice will have to do. Lauren reluctantly agrees on one condition: Jack has to help Lauren win a promotion at work.
Kasey works her magic with these two and the banter is incredibly fun! I loved the backdrop of the cruise to get their relationship going and that it continues back home in Texas with the pressures of work and family drama. And that intro to book two? Can. Not. Wait.
Thank you to the author for the #gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
Kasey works her magic with these two and the banter is incredibly fun! I loved the backdrop of the cruise to get their relationship going and that it continues back home in Texas with the pressures of work and family drama. And that intro to book two? Can. Not. Wait.
Thank you to the author for the #gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
September 15, 2025
Love on Deck by Kasey Stockton is the first book in the Love on Deck series.
I didn't like Sara Young's narration at the beginning of the book, but once I got used to it, it was fine. Rusty Mewha did an alright job.
Read for:
🛳 cruise ship elopement
🛳 fake dating
🛳 enemies to more
🛳 forced proximity
🛳 second chance romance
There were a few things that didn't work for me, and the beginning of the story felt very choppy, lacking cohesion. I am not going to give spoilers, but changing the rooms made absolutely no sense whatsoever. Lauren was completely unlikable at the beginning, grew some, but then seemed to revert back to her ways. Overall, it was an okay read, but I am not going to continue the series.
I didn't like Sara Young's narration at the beginning of the book, but once I got used to it, it was fine. Rusty Mewha did an alright job.
Read for:
🛳 cruise ship elopement
🛳 fake dating
🛳 enemies to more
🛳 forced proximity
🛳 second chance romance
There were a few things that didn't work for me, and the beginning of the story felt very choppy, lacking cohesion. I am not going to give spoilers, but changing the rooms made absolutely no sense whatsoever. Lauren was completely unlikable at the beginning, grew some, but then seemed to revert back to her ways. Overall, it was an okay read, but I am not going to continue the series.
September 3, 2023
This was my first contemporary Stockton book, I thought she did a great job. I enjoyed the overall story and the cruise setting was fun. I liked that the story actually continues on after the cruise and things didn’t just quickly wrap up. I liked Lauren’s character growth as the story went on. I Liked Logan and thought they had good chemistry.
Content Rated G
Clean romance, kissing. No language or violence
Content Rated G
Clean romance, kissing. No language or violence
January 4, 2024
I got tired of reading about the conference all the time!
May 14, 2024
2.5
It was good but they got together too soon and I lost interest.
It was good but they got together too soon and I lost interest.
Read
March 27, 2025Made it to over 40%. Couldn’t get into it. Wasn’t awful - just wasn’t for me.
January 15, 2024
So cute!
Jack and Lauren are anything but friends after a blind are a couple of years ago. Now, forced together for a wedding cruise, they land themselves in a fake dating situation! Jack is legitimately trying to be sweet, while workaholic, uptight Lauren is trying her hardest to keep her distance (except when necessary)!
I loved how Jack cute and fun Jack was and how after a lot of attempts at banter and flirting, he’s able to get Lauren to literally let her hair down, have some fun , and give him a chance!
Jack and Lauren are anything but friends after a blind are a couple of years ago. Now, forced together for a wedding cruise, they land themselves in a fake dating situation! Jack is legitimately trying to be sweet, while workaholic, uptight Lauren is trying her hardest to keep her distance (except when necessary)!
I loved how Jack cute and fun Jack was and how after a lot of attempts at banter and flirting, he’s able to get Lauren to literally let her hair down, have some fun , and give him a chance!
July 8, 2025
Very very cute!!
April 28, 2024
DNF @ 30%
I’ve been on over 20 cruises and I love a romance set on a cruise ship, but so often I read things that indicate that the author has never actually been on a cruise. Such is the case with Love on Deck. It immediately grated on me that all the characters were calling the ship a boat. You don’t call a 120,000 ton ship a boat, and you don't hear this from people on cruises. If one person called it a boat, I could write it off as an annoying quirk of the character but this was every single person.
It’s against the law for casinos on cruise ships to be open while the ship is in port. However, the author had the characters immediately go to guest services (which are also closed during embarkation because all the crew are in other areas helping guests board) and slot machines were noisy in the background before the ship left port. This would never happen. The cruise line would be in so much trouble. Cruise ships must be in international waters before they can open their casinos (and duty-free shops, for that matter). Furthermore, the reason that these two were even at guest services is not plausible. Lauren and Jack wanted to change their reservation from two individual cabins to one cabin that they would share. The ship was sailing at capacity and there were no empty cabins. However, the customer service agent said they could pay the difference and upgrade to a balcony cabin that had been reserved by a couple who was a no-show to the ship. She said that if they showed up at some point that Jack and Lauren would have to move out and go back to their original cabins. This would also never happen. If someone books a room on a ship and then doesn’t show up, that room is vacant for the entire cruise because the guests could fly to a port to meet the ship at any time. They have essentially rented the room for the duration of the cruise, and nobody can mess with it unless there’s an official cancellation on the books. Then they can offer the room to guests who want to upgrade or as a last-minute booking on their website. There’s none of this “come back after we set sail and if they’re still not here I’ll let you move into their room” business. Finally, there was no mention of the lifeboat drill, which is required by international maritime law. It usually happens just before the ship sets sail, after the gangway is closed. Everyone on board, even the crew, are required to be there. Attendance is taken, rooms and public areas are searched to make sure nobody is hiding, people are woken up if they're taking a cat nap, the bars/lounges/pools/eating areas are closed for it, etc. It's a huge deal, and people who do not participate are escorted off the ship. There is no mention of this event happening, and people are playing mini golf and lounging by the pool as they watch Florida disappear into the horizon. This would not happen. Also, I know typos happen, but Nassau is not spelled Naussau.
I’m super disappointed, as I truly wanted to love this book and was really looking forward to a romance at sea. Unfortunately, I could not get my head out of all these inaccurate aspects of the story.
I’ve been on over 20 cruises and I love a romance set on a cruise ship, but so often I read things that indicate that the author has never actually been on a cruise. Such is the case with Love on Deck. It immediately grated on me that all the characters were calling the ship a boat. You don’t call a 120,000 ton ship a boat, and you don't hear this from people on cruises. If one person called it a boat, I could write it off as an annoying quirk of the character but this was every single person.
It’s against the law for casinos on cruise ships to be open while the ship is in port. However, the author had the characters immediately go to guest services (which are also closed during embarkation because all the crew are in other areas helping guests board) and slot machines were noisy in the background before the ship left port. This would never happen. The cruise line would be in so much trouble. Cruise ships must be in international waters before they can open their casinos (and duty-free shops, for that matter). Furthermore, the reason that these two were even at guest services is not plausible. Lauren and Jack wanted to change their reservation from two individual cabins to one cabin that they would share. The ship was sailing at capacity and there were no empty cabins. However, the customer service agent said they could pay the difference and upgrade to a balcony cabin that had been reserved by a couple who was a no-show to the ship. She said that if they showed up at some point that Jack and Lauren would have to move out and go back to their original cabins. This would also never happen. If someone books a room on a ship and then doesn’t show up, that room is vacant for the entire cruise because the guests could fly to a port to meet the ship at any time. They have essentially rented the room for the duration of the cruise, and nobody can mess with it unless there’s an official cancellation on the books. Then they can offer the room to guests who want to upgrade or as a last-minute booking on their website. There’s none of this “come back after we set sail and if they’re still not here I’ll let you move into their room” business. Finally, there was no mention of the lifeboat drill, which is required by international maritime law. It usually happens just before the ship sets sail, after the gangway is closed. Everyone on board, even the crew, are required to be there. Attendance is taken, rooms and public areas are searched to make sure nobody is hiding, people are woken up if they're taking a cat nap, the bars/lounges/pools/eating areas are closed for it, etc. It's a huge deal, and people who do not participate are escorted off the ship. There is no mention of this event happening, and people are playing mini golf and lounging by the pool as they watch Florida disappear into the horizon. This would not happen. Also, I know typos happen, but Nassau is not spelled Naussau.
I’m super disappointed, as I truly wanted to love this book and was really looking forward to a romance at sea. Unfortunately, I could not get my head out of all these inaccurate aspects of the story.
December 28, 2025
Clean Romance
I really enjoy Kasey Stockton's books! This one was especially fun with the dual narration, which I sped up to make it even better. I can't wait for the next two books in the series to come out!
I really enjoy Kasey Stockton's books! This one was especially fun with the dual narration, which I sped up to make it even better. I can't wait for the next two books in the series to come out!
June 3, 2025
3.25⭐️ this was cute. I liked the fake dating and the sister’s wedding. I wish we got to see more of Arcadia, since that is what this series is called. I know we’ll definitely see more in the next books. The book just did wow me. I liked the characters, but I wasn’t in love with them. I started this book right after I finished a book about a workaholic woman who is sort of stuck up and caught up too much in work and being professional. So it was a bit of a drag to read another book with that same character description. I want a driven woman, who also knows how to balance and let loose. I guess that’s the whole point of this plot, where they are learning to let loose, but I just want them to already be that way.
Jack was a sweetie. He was caught in a tough spot with that voicemail. I mean he did say some pretty cruel things, but he thought that Lauren ditched him on their date. And at the time she was pretty stuck up. Also he had no idea she could hear the conversation. We all say things about people in the heat of the moment that we probably would never say outside of that moment. I felt bad that Lauren had to hear that voice message. I just hated that she kept it and listened to it often. And then said that all men were like that.
Everything with Lauren’s sister did take over at one point, but it was the whole reason Jack and Lauren had to fake date in the first place so I guess that’s okay. I think it could have been cool for them to have a book, but now that things with them are wrapped up I don’t see the point anymore. I wish we could have gotten a little less of them. Maybe it could have been a novella to show the behind the scenes things. But it was fun still.
I’m very glad they both got out of their jobs. They weren’t right for them and they were both much happier doing things they loved. I’m happy they’re in Arcadia and we can see more of them in the next books. I’m excited to get to know his family more too.
Jack was a sweetie. He was caught in a tough spot with that voicemail. I mean he did say some pretty cruel things, but he thought that Lauren ditched him on their date. And at the time she was pretty stuck up. Also he had no idea she could hear the conversation. We all say things about people in the heat of the moment that we probably would never say outside of that moment. I felt bad that Lauren had to hear that voice message. I just hated that she kept it and listened to it often. And then said that all men were like that.
Everything with Lauren’s sister did take over at one point, but it was the whole reason Jack and Lauren had to fake date in the first place so I guess that’s okay. I think it could have been cool for them to have a book, but now that things with them are wrapped up I don’t see the point anymore. I wish we could have gotten a little less of them. Maybe it could have been a novella to show the behind the scenes things. But it was fun still.
I’m very glad they both got out of their jobs. They weren’t right for them and they were both much happier doing things they loved. I’m happy they’re in Arcadia and we can see more of them in the next books. I’m excited to get to know his family more too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2023
Such a cute book!
Everything you can expect from an at-sea romantic comedy. Contemporary romances are not my usual cup of tea, but I must admit: I really enjoyed the book and the chemistry between the two characters.
I can't wait to find the story of the other Fletcher brothers! (It's totally giving me Bradwell brothers vibes;))
If you are curious, just read a thread of my unfiltered thoughts while reading this book:
"the dedication is written for me"
"Sunshine ?? oh yes!"
"Whatever you say, I'm here for the fake dating!!!"
"this just sounds so poetic, just hear:a nightmare dropped on us by the romcom gods"
"literal enemies-to-lovers story in real life. This is romance. << sigh >>"
"Oh, goodbye heart. You're so far gone. That was me in that exact moment:)"
"springtime in my heart You cannot be serious! This is so cuteee!"
*I received a copy for review from the author. All the opinions expressed in this review are my own. To be considered that a positive review was not required.
Everything you can expect from an at-sea romantic comedy. Contemporary romances are not my usual cup of tea, but I must admit: I really enjoyed the book and the chemistry between the two characters.
I can't wait to find the story of the other Fletcher brothers! (It's totally giving me Bradwell brothers vibes;))
If you are curious, just read a thread of my unfiltered thoughts while reading this book:
"the dedication is written for me"
"Sunshine ?? oh yes!"
"Whatever you say, I'm here for the fake dating!!!"
"this just sounds so poetic, just hear:a nightmare dropped on us by the romcom gods"
"literal enemies-to-lovers story in real life. This is romance. << sigh >>"
"Oh, goodbye heart. You're so far gone. That was me in that exact moment:)"
"springtime in my heart You cannot be serious! This is so cuteee!"
*I received a copy for review from the author. All the opinions expressed in this review are my own. To be considered that a positive review was not required.
July 13, 2025
This one was really cute. I loved the fake dating, the time they spent on the cruise ship, getting ice cream, and the book overall.
Favorite Parts:
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Fake dating
Hot tub
Touching (appropriate)
He falls first
Snorkeling
Their Tension
Aloe
Cruise ship
Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: Kissing only
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: none
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: Characters talk about going to church and attend church (mentioned briefly).
Other: gambling (mentioned), grief for and death of family member (past), toxic family relationship
Book Info:
Series: Arcadia Creek bk 1
Genre: Contemp Romcom
Romance Level: Kisses only
Release Date: Available on Amazon, KU, Hoopla, Youtube, Audible
Narrators: Sara Young and Rusty Mewha
Publisher: Indie/ Dreamscape Media
POV: Dual
Favorite Parts:
Enemies to Lovers
Forced Proximity
Fake dating
Hot tub
Touching (appropriate)
He falls first
Snorkeling
Their Tension
Aloe
Cruise ship
Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: Kissing only
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: none
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: Characters talk about going to church and attend church (mentioned briefly).
Other: gambling (mentioned), grief for and death of family member (past), toxic family relationship
Book Info:
Series: Arcadia Creek bk 1
Genre: Contemp Romcom
Romance Level: Kisses only
Release Date: Available on Amazon, KU, Hoopla, Youtube, Audible
Narrators: Sara Young and Rusty Mewha
Publisher: Indie/ Dreamscape Media
POV: Dual
March 16, 2024
So cute! First book by this author and won’t be my last!
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