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Hallmark Beach #3
Beachside Kisses With My Best Friend
What’s a little marriage of convenience between best friends? Just a tasty appetizer for real love!
My life was flowing smoothly until Jordan Carmichael, the adventure tour guy I’ve known since high school, hit a rough patch.
His five-year-old son, Ryder, needs stability after losing his mother, and with her parents fighting for custody, I propose a bold plan: let’s get married for a year.
I want to help him keep his family together, and when Jordan offers to assist me in securing a loan for the local bakery, it seems like a win-win for both of us.
There’s just one tiny hitch—I’ve sworn off marriage after escaping my emotionally abusive ex-husband. I’m terrified of repeating past mistakes and dragging anyone else into my mess, especially Jordan.
But as we draft a contract with rules—including only kissing when necessary to convince the town we’re “really” married—I feel sparks rising faster than a soufflé…
Once I move in with Jordan, all bets are off as those rules crumble faster than a cookie. Late-night talks turn into stolen snuggles, and playful moments leave my heart racing.
Suddenly, we slip into a closeness that feels all too real. It seems like maybe we’ve figured out a delicious recipe for a love that just might last…
But when our secret is exposed, Jordan’s custody case hangs in the balance—and so does my heart.
Can we whisk together this tempting blend of friendship, pretend love, and true emotions without creating a hopeless mess?
Perfect for fans of:
✔️friends to lovers
✔️modern-day marriage of convenience
✔️forced proximity
✔️one bed
✔️single dad
✔️”that’s my wife”
Beachside Kisses With My Best Friend is Book 3 in the Hallmark Beach small town sweet romantic comedy series, where a charming yet quirky town on the coast of California comes to life. It’s the story of baker Marilee Moffitt and her best friend, single dad Jordan Carmichael. This dual-POV novel is filled with all the sizzling romantic tension and swoons possible without on-page intimacy. Each book in the series stands alone, but you may want to read them in order for the most enjoyment.
My life was flowing smoothly until Jordan Carmichael, the adventure tour guy I’ve known since high school, hit a rough patch.
His five-year-old son, Ryder, needs stability after losing his mother, and with her parents fighting for custody, I propose a bold plan: let’s get married for a year.
I want to help him keep his family together, and when Jordan offers to assist me in securing a loan for the local bakery, it seems like a win-win for both of us.
There’s just one tiny hitch—I’ve sworn off marriage after escaping my emotionally abusive ex-husband. I’m terrified of repeating past mistakes and dragging anyone else into my mess, especially Jordan.
But as we draft a contract with rules—including only kissing when necessary to convince the town we’re “really” married—I feel sparks rising faster than a soufflé…
Once I move in with Jordan, all bets are off as those rules crumble faster than a cookie. Late-night talks turn into stolen snuggles, and playful moments leave my heart racing.
Suddenly, we slip into a closeness that feels all too real. It seems like maybe we’ve figured out a delicious recipe for a love that just might last…
But when our secret is exposed, Jordan’s custody case hangs in the balance—and so does my heart.
Can we whisk together this tempting blend of friendship, pretend love, and true emotions without creating a hopeless mess?
Perfect for fans of:
✔️friends to lovers
✔️modern-day marriage of convenience
✔️forced proximity
✔️one bed
✔️single dad
✔️”that’s my wife”
Beachside Kisses With My Best Friend is Book 3 in the Hallmark Beach small town sweet romantic comedy series, where a charming yet quirky town on the coast of California comes to life. It’s the story of baker Marilee Moffitt and her best friend, single dad Jordan Carmichael. This dual-POV novel is filled with all the sizzling romantic tension and swoons possible without on-page intimacy. Each book in the series stands alone, but you may want to read them in order for the most enjoyment.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2025
26 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
About the author
Kristin Canary
14 books268 followersKristin is a thirty-something wife and boy mom who functions best on peach tea and cookie dough ice cream. She writes closed-door romantic comedies with lots of sizzle and spice but no explicit on-page content. A desert dweller, she always has her eye on the next trip to a beach somewhere--and if she can't travel there in person, then you'd better believe she's going to write about it. Kristin is never fully satisfied with a movie, TV show, or book without a hefty dose of romance in it, and she's grateful to be living a true-life love story with her own crazy little family. Connect with her at KristinCanary.com/freebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
May 2, 2025
This is the 3rd book in the kisses only contemporary romcom series Hallmark Beach series. It has some recurring characters from precious books in the series, but can be fully understood and enjoyed as a standalone story.
I enjoy friends to more and marriage of convenience tropes. I thought both were done well in this book. It is a dual POV narrative. I like those the best too.
I was able to read an advanced digital copy of this book. I'm happy to leave an honest review.
I enjoy friends to more and marriage of convenience tropes. I thought both were done well in this book. It is a dual POV narrative. I like those the best too.
I was able to read an advanced digital copy of this book. I'm happy to leave an honest review.
May 6, 2025
I adored this story! I love marriage of conveniences and so I couldn’t wait for this one. Beachside Kisses with My Best Friend is the 3rd book in Kristin Canary’s Hallmark Beach Small Town Romance series.
Marilee and Jordan were the cutest together! I loved how they had history and truly understood each other. They were each other’s safe place. I felt for them as they tried to figure out how to make their relationship work, especially as they worked through their own feelings for each other. Ryder was the sweetest and I love how he felt like a child. He adored Marilee and Jordan, they were truly his family.
I loved the growth of both Marilee and Jordan. They had both been through different experiences that affected the way they viewed life. The romance was definitely slow burn as they tried to work out their feelings. They had their challenges but I love how they worked together and tried to make their marriage work too. They really cared for the other person and just wanted the best for each other.
It was fun to see old characters and I am so excited for the next book in the series! I would totally recommend this book. Beachside Kisses with My Best Friend is a closed door romantic comedy.
Unrequited love
Friends to lovers
Single dad
Baker FFM
Friends and family
“My wife”
I received a complimentary copy
Marilee and Jordan were the cutest together! I loved how they had history and truly understood each other. They were each other’s safe place. I felt for them as they tried to figure out how to make their relationship work, especially as they worked through their own feelings for each other. Ryder was the sweetest and I love how he felt like a child. He adored Marilee and Jordan, they were truly his family.
I loved the growth of both Marilee and Jordan. They had both been through different experiences that affected the way they viewed life. The romance was definitely slow burn as they tried to work out their feelings. They had their challenges but I love how they worked together and tried to make their marriage work too. They really cared for the other person and just wanted the best for each other.
It was fun to see old characters and I am so excited for the next book in the series! I would totally recommend this book. Beachside Kisses with My Best Friend is a closed door romantic comedy.
Unrequited love
Friends to lovers
Single dad
Baker FFM
Friends and family
“My wife”
I received a complimentary copy
May 1, 2025
I absolutely adore Jordan & Marilee's sweet, heartbreaking, protective, hopeful, caring, loving, swoony happily ever after!!!
April 30, 2025
I remember when Kristin did her cover reveal, I was salivating! Marilee and Jordan have now officially come to life in an even bigger way than I could ever have imagined!
Marilee has a lot of personal reflection and upheaval since reading about her watching the fireworks with Ryder and his dad, Jordan, at the end of the previous story! Her brother has gotten married and while he, as well as his new bride, are happy to share the house with Marilee, you can’t help but feel something has got to give! Couple that with her weighing her next steps career-wise, she doesn’t want to be a bother to anyone! Thankfully she never seems to be a bother to Jordan! We get to briefly see what these two besties were like at the very beginning of their friendship and it’s very illuminating to say the least!
Jordan works hard to keep his small business running, be a loyal listener to ‘Lee’, and loving dad to Ryder, the man has been run a bit ragged. So, when his son’s mother’s parents pursue legal action to become Ryder’s guardians. What the?! Not cool! He turns to Marilee to hear out his dilemma, she suggests a MOC. The MOC would be for a year to guarantee that his son could stay with him and then the pair would go right back to being the besties with no strings attached. Best laid plans… While the marriage turns out to be mutually beneficial, they still must plead their case, and they need all of Hallmark Beach to believe the legitimacy of it!
Boy, oh boy! This book has you feel all the feels and then some! It is not to be missed and left unread! It’s been so wonderful to see these two come to terms with themselves and each other as the story unfolds! And if you read closely, one can only hope there were some hints to future pairings in this series! This book is going on my shelf now! PS you may want some tissues handy; I definitely grabbed them a time or two! Final words for this book are that if you can get through the hard stuff, this book will leave you feeling more love and affection for Kristin Canary’s book than ever before!
TW: miscarriages, abusive ex, past lapses in judgment
Marilee has a lot of personal reflection and upheaval since reading about her watching the fireworks with Ryder and his dad, Jordan, at the end of the previous story! Her brother has gotten married and while he, as well as his new bride, are happy to share the house with Marilee, you can’t help but feel something has got to give! Couple that with her weighing her next steps career-wise, she doesn’t want to be a bother to anyone! Thankfully she never seems to be a bother to Jordan! We get to briefly see what these two besties were like at the very beginning of their friendship and it’s very illuminating to say the least!
Jordan works hard to keep his small business running, be a loyal listener to ‘Lee’, and loving dad to Ryder, the man has been run a bit ragged. So, when his son’s mother’s parents pursue legal action to become Ryder’s guardians. What the?! Not cool! He turns to Marilee to hear out his dilemma, she suggests a MOC. The MOC would be for a year to guarantee that his son could stay with him and then the pair would go right back to being the besties with no strings attached. Best laid plans… While the marriage turns out to be mutually beneficial, they still must plead their case, and they need all of Hallmark Beach to believe the legitimacy of it!
Boy, oh boy! This book has you feel all the feels and then some! It is not to be missed and left unread! It’s been so wonderful to see these two come to terms with themselves and each other as the story unfolds! And if you read closely, one can only hope there were some hints to future pairings in this series! This book is going on my shelf now! PS you may want some tissues handy; I definitely grabbed them a time or two! Final words for this book are that if you can get through the hard stuff, this book will leave you feeling more love and affection for Kristin Canary’s book than ever before!
TW: miscarriages, abusive ex, past lapses in judgment
April 14, 2025
Marilee and Jordan are long time friends to more, secret pining, marriage of convenience amazingness!
I was drawn into their story from the very beginning and binged most of it. Jordan is the sweetest single dad with the cutest kid, their friendship and care for each other was just beautiful, and I adored every minute of their falling and HEA.
TW: (While these are deep themes, this still carries a romcom, happy vibe)
Past— Miscarriages, Divorce, One Night Stand (Actions Regretted),
Present— Custody Battle
I was drawn into their story from the very beginning and binged most of it. Jordan is the sweetest single dad with the cutest kid, their friendship and care for each other was just beautiful, and I adored every minute of their falling and HEA.
TW: (While these are deep themes, this still carries a romcom, happy vibe)
Past— Miscarriages, Divorce, One Night Stand (Actions Regretted),
Present— Custody Battle
April 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5, rounded up!)
GENRE
-rom-com
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: make outs
-⚠️: emotional abuse (past), miscarriages (past), alcoholic father
Friends-to-lovers is not my favorite trope, but I really liked how this was done! Marilee and Jordan met in high school and have been friends since that time. When custody of Jordan's son, Ryder, is challenged, Marilee proposes that they get married (in name only).
I really loved how the author peeled back the layers of Marilee in this story. My heart broke for her and the emotional abuse that she suffered at the hands of her ex-husband. To watch her open up and share her most closely-held secrets with Jordan was beautiful.
This is definitely a case of "he falls first". Bless Jordan for the torture he went through by having Marilee in his space as his "wife" but not really. Thank heavens Marilee came to the realization that they had something great together, and that it was worth the risk.
Favorite Quotes:
🎄I navigate to a movie I didn't get a chance to watch over Christmas this year. Sandra Bullock and Bill Pullman's faces smile at each other on the screen.
"This okay?"
"You kidding?" He stands, grabs a few blankets, and offers me one. "I'm always in a While You Were Sleeping mood."
😍 "So, what you're saying is, I'm free as a bird?"
"No." She studies me from behind her glasses. "What I'm saying is, tonight you're all mine."
💎 I have never wanted anything more in my life than this, with her, a woman who doesn't even know half of her value. But I want to spend the rest of my life showing it to her, mining it from her depths and helping her to recognize the diamonds produced by all the pain she's gone through.
🛑 "What do you mean?"
"I mean that I've loved you half of my life, Lee... And I don't think I'll ever stop."
❤️"Love itself isn't enough.""What else is there, then?"
"Choice. Love is an emotion, sure, but it's also a choice. And when the hard times come, sometimes we might not feel in love. But the couples who survive those times survive because they choose to stay together. Choose to work it out."
‼️"But here's the truth—we are all a mess. We all need a little saving. We all make bad choices sometimes. But leaning into love instead of fear? That's never a mistake."
GENRE
-rom-com
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: make outs
-⚠️: emotional abuse (past), miscarriages (past), alcoholic father
Friends-to-lovers is not my favorite trope, but I really liked how this was done! Marilee and Jordan met in high school and have been friends since that time. When custody of Jordan's son, Ryder, is challenged, Marilee proposes that they get married (in name only).
I really loved how the author peeled back the layers of Marilee in this story. My heart broke for her and the emotional abuse that she suffered at the hands of her ex-husband. To watch her open up and share her most closely-held secrets with Jordan was beautiful.
This is definitely a case of "he falls first". Bless Jordan for the torture he went through by having Marilee in his space as his "wife" but not really. Thank heavens Marilee came to the realization that they had something great together, and that it was worth the risk.
Favorite Quotes:
🎄I navigate to a movie I didn't get a chance to watch over Christmas this year. Sandra Bullock and Bill Pullman's faces smile at each other on the screen.
"This okay?"
"You kidding?" He stands, grabs a few blankets, and offers me one. "I'm always in a While You Were Sleeping mood."
😍 "So, what you're saying is, I'm free as a bird?"
"No." She studies me from behind her glasses. "What I'm saying is, tonight you're all mine."
💎 I have never wanted anything more in my life than this, with her, a woman who doesn't even know half of her value. But I want to spend the rest of my life showing it to her, mining it from her depths and helping her to recognize the diamonds produced by all the pain she's gone through.
🛑 "What do you mean?"
"I mean that I've loved you half of my life, Lee... And I don't think I'll ever stop."
❤️"Love itself isn't enough.""What else is there, then?"
"Choice. Love is an emotion, sure, but it's also a choice. And when the hard times come, sometimes we might not feel in love. But the couples who survive those times survive because they choose to stay together. Choose to work it out."
‼️"But here's the truth—we are all a mess. We all need a little saving. We all make bad choices sometimes. But leaning into love instead of fear? That's never a mistake."
May 21, 2025
It always feels so good to head back to Hallmark Beach for a while. I have been intrigued by Jordan and Marilee’s friendship since the last book in the series and I have been so excited to read this one! This book is a real treat combining a few of my favorite tropes: friends to lovers, fake relationship, and marriage of convenience.
I absolutely loved how the book started with a flashback of Jordan and Marilee meeting in Home Economics class at 14 years old. Jordan was so sweet, developing an instant crush on Marilee and knowing right away she would always have a place in his life. Flash forward 15 years later and they are such close friends and just always there for each other; even though Jordan has always wanted more with Marilee. He's just loved her forever. Meanwhile Marilee has been hurt from a bad marriage and thinks she is a mess; too broken to fall in love again. Marilee doesn’t see how wonderful she is. I also just got to say I really related to her love for Christmas and leaving the tree up as long as possible. Jordan is so protective and loving toward Marilee. The story was absolutely beautiful. There was some heartache but lots of swoon, romance, and many smiles and laughs on my part. Also the very best “that's my wife” moment and a kiss in the rain that I won’t forget anytime soon! This is a book you will want to binge yet soak up and savor all the magic between Jordan and Marilee at the same time. I couldn’t get enough!
Content Awareness - one night stand, miscarriage, divorce, emotional abusive marriage; all in the past. Single dad and custody battle present
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I absolutely loved how the book started with a flashback of Jordan and Marilee meeting in Home Economics class at 14 years old. Jordan was so sweet, developing an instant crush on Marilee and knowing right away she would always have a place in his life. Flash forward 15 years later and they are such close friends and just always there for each other; even though Jordan has always wanted more with Marilee. He's just loved her forever. Meanwhile Marilee has been hurt from a bad marriage and thinks she is a mess; too broken to fall in love again. Marilee doesn’t see how wonderful she is. I also just got to say I really related to her love for Christmas and leaving the tree up as long as possible. Jordan is so protective and loving toward Marilee. The story was absolutely beautiful. There was some heartache but lots of swoon, romance, and many smiles and laughs on my part. Also the very best “that's my wife” moment and a kiss in the rain that I won’t forget anytime soon! This is a book you will want to binge yet soak up and savor all the magic between Jordan and Marilee at the same time. I couldn’t get enough!
Content Awareness - one night stand, miscarriage, divorce, emotional abusive marriage; all in the past. Single dad and custody battle present
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 16, 2025
gaaah i love best friends to lovers so much!! i love how they know each other so well, i love how he is pining for her for YEARS, i love their little family too. also the last 15% of the book made me SOBBING and CRYING!!
tropes :
- best friends to lovers
- he is pining for her for YEARS
- single dad
- small town romance
tropes :
- best friends to lovers
- he is pining for her for YEARS
- single dad
- small town romance
May 9, 2025
A pretty basic, lovable friends to lovers. The courtroom scene is worth the price of admission, and Jordan had some major swooniness throughout — although it made me nervous sometimes before it all came together!
May 5, 2025
Beachside Kisses with My Best Friend is the third book in Kristin Canary’s Hallmark Beach Small Town Romances series. I have been anticipating this book since Jordan and Marilee were first introduced in the first book in the series. You could just tell from those brief mentions that Jordan and Marilee had something special. Well, all my hopes for this book were met and more. The beginning, middle, and end were all so beautifully written.
I adored Marilee and Jordan’s friendship from the start—it was so pure and true. Their initial meeting was so cute and set the story up perfectly. I loved how Canary added so many glimpses into their past without adding full flashbacks. It was so well done and really showed how solid their friendship was. These glimpses also shed light on Marilee’s fears and Jordan’s determination to be a good father to Ryder.
The story mixed the friends to more trope with the marriage of convenience trope. It was the perfect mix. It was so sweet and so swoony to see Marilee finally see Jordan. It was also so exciting and heartbreaking to see Jordan having to pretend he didn’t have real feelings for Marilee.
Marilee and Jordan were the stars of the story, but I also want to shout out to all the amazing supporting characters. From Jordan’s mom to Marilee’s boss to their friends, I loved how supportive they were of both Jordan and Marilee’s position in their marriage. The kind words of support, advice, and wisdom were so touching. I loved how much heart was in this story. It was so sweet and puts a smile on my face as I think about it.
Things to love:
-friends to more and marriage of convenience
-one bed
-single dad
-fabulous friend group
-he falls first
-glamping
-Ryder’s family picture
-swoony kisses
-banter and teasing
-cute nicknames
I adored this book. It is the perfect addition to the series and was so satisfying. Marilee and Jordan were so good together. This book can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the other books too. Just because they are so good, not because you need to read them to enjoy this one.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
I adored Marilee and Jordan’s friendship from the start—it was so pure and true. Their initial meeting was so cute and set the story up perfectly. I loved how Canary added so many glimpses into their past without adding full flashbacks. It was so well done and really showed how solid their friendship was. These glimpses also shed light on Marilee’s fears and Jordan’s determination to be a good father to Ryder.
The story mixed the friends to more trope with the marriage of convenience trope. It was the perfect mix. It was so sweet and so swoony to see Marilee finally see Jordan. It was also so exciting and heartbreaking to see Jordan having to pretend he didn’t have real feelings for Marilee.
Marilee and Jordan were the stars of the story, but I also want to shout out to all the amazing supporting characters. From Jordan’s mom to Marilee’s boss to their friends, I loved how supportive they were of both Jordan and Marilee’s position in their marriage. The kind words of support, advice, and wisdom were so touching. I loved how much heart was in this story. It was so sweet and puts a smile on my face as I think about it.
Things to love:
-friends to more and marriage of convenience
-one bed
-single dad
-fabulous friend group
-he falls first
-glamping
-Ryder’s family picture
-swoony kisses
-banter and teasing
-cute nicknames
I adored this book. It is the perfect addition to the series and was so satisfying. Marilee and Jordan were so good together. This book can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the other books too. Just because they are so good, not because you need to read them to enjoy this one.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 2, 2025
Reader’s Notes:
-this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
-this is told from Jordan & Marilee’s points of view
-it is mentioned that a character’s parents passed in a car accident about 7 years ago
-it is mentioned that a character‘s parent is a high functioning alcoholic (not abusive)
-it is mentioned that a character used to be in an emotionally abusive marriage (we do briefly ‘meet’ the abusive ex in current time)
-it is mentioned that a character has had issues with getting pregnant (including miscarriages; past events)
Review:
I binge read this book in practically one sitting! I have been so excited to come back to Hallmark Beach and see what would be happening between these two best friends since the end of the last book! I loved getting a deeper look at their friendship and what their lives entailed outside of the few interactions we’d seen previously. I was close to tears reading some of their story both because of the emotions these two characters were feeling for each other and for what they went through in the past. I loved Marilee, Jordan, and Ryder so much!
I can’t wait to see what is in store for April next! 😍
Summary:
Jordan is still navigating life as a single parent to his five year old son Ryder and has had to lean on his friends and family way more than he wanted to, but he’d do it all over again to have Ryder in his life. Even working with the parents of Ryder’s mother so they all have a chance to be a part of his life. But everything comes crashing down when those same parents decide to fight for custody of Ryder citing Jordan as an unfit parent. Jordan has no hope of a good defense of stability with his own business still building… until his best friend Marilee does the unthinkable and suggests that they enter a marriage of convenience for Ryder’s sake.
Marilee swore off marrying anyone again after separating from her ex. She doesn’t want anyone else to be brought into her mess of a life. But when her best friend Jordan and his son Ryder’s way of life is threatened, Marilee does the one thing she was against. Marilee thought that things would be fine and they’d be able to keep being just friends, even with the new changes living in a house together would bring. But she was wrong. Very wrong. Because now, Marilee can’t stop thinking of Jordan in a way that’s way more than just friendship and she doesn’t know what to do with her newfound feelings or what it would mean to own up to them…
-this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
-this is told from Jordan & Marilee’s points of view
-it is mentioned that a character’s parents passed in a car accident about 7 years ago
-it is mentioned that a character‘s parent is a high functioning alcoholic (not abusive)
-it is mentioned that a character used to be in an emotionally abusive marriage (we do briefly ‘meet’ the abusive ex in current time)
-it is mentioned that a character has had issues with getting pregnant (including miscarriages; past events)
Review:
I binge read this book in practically one sitting! I have been so excited to come back to Hallmark Beach and see what would be happening between these two best friends since the end of the last book! I loved getting a deeper look at their friendship and what their lives entailed outside of the few interactions we’d seen previously. I was close to tears reading some of their story both because of the emotions these two characters were feeling for each other and for what they went through in the past. I loved Marilee, Jordan, and Ryder so much!
I can’t wait to see what is in store for April next! 😍
Summary:
Jordan is still navigating life as a single parent to his five year old son Ryder and has had to lean on his friends and family way more than he wanted to, but he’d do it all over again to have Ryder in his life. Even working with the parents of Ryder’s mother so they all have a chance to be a part of his life. But everything comes crashing down when those same parents decide to fight for custody of Ryder citing Jordan as an unfit parent. Jordan has no hope of a good defense of stability with his own business still building… until his best friend Marilee does the unthinkable and suggests that they enter a marriage of convenience for Ryder’s sake.
Marilee swore off marrying anyone again after separating from her ex. She doesn’t want anyone else to be brought into her mess of a life. But when her best friend Jordan and his son Ryder’s way of life is threatened, Marilee does the one thing she was against. Marilee thought that things would be fine and they’d be able to keep being just friends, even with the new changes living in a house together would bring. But she was wrong. Very wrong. Because now, Marilee can’t stop thinking of Jordan in a way that’s way more than just friendship and she doesn’t know what to do with her newfound feelings or what it would mean to own up to them…
May 17, 2025
Favorite Quote:
“I’m pretty sure I’ve entered a twilight zone—one in which my attorney suggested I marry my best friend. One in which my best friend didn’t run for the hills at the suggestion. ”
I’ve been patiently waiting for Jordan and Marilee’s story for so long, and it did not disappoint!! The roller coaster of emotions that this book took me on. 😍😭
I loved every moment spent in Hallmark Beach with these two, and I can’t wait to see what Kristin has in store for April’s story!
Thank you to the author for the advance copy. All thoughts are my own.
“I’m pretty sure I’ve entered a twilight zone—one in which my attorney suggested I marry my best friend. One in which my best friend didn’t run for the hills at the suggestion. ”
I’ve been patiently waiting for Jordan and Marilee’s story for so long, and it did not disappoint!! The roller coaster of emotions that this book took me on. 😍😭
I loved every moment spent in Hallmark Beach with these two, and I can’t wait to see what Kristin has in store for April’s story!
Thank you to the author for the advance copy. All thoughts are my own.
May 5, 2025
“I never knew a kiss could feel like this, like falling and flying at the same time. Like coming home.”
Marilee and Jordan have been best friends since high school and they’d do anything for each other. So when Jordan got into some custody battle for his son Ryder, Marilee proposed for a marriage of convenience. Jordan can keep his family together and Marilee will have a co-signer for a loan so she can buy the local bakery. With a contract in place with rules such as only kissing when necessary Marilee thought they were set. However, living together and sharing a bed seems to bring up feelings that Marilee is not ready for.
I love Jordan and a Marilee’s friendship, the way they support each other especially when it comes to their dreams. Ryder, Jordan’s son is adorable and such a sweetheart.
Their first kiss was swoony and full of steam!
This small town, marriage of convenience, single dad, best friends to lovers is full of sweet and touching moments.
This is book 3 in the series so we get to see some of our other favorite Hallmark Beach favorites! I just love their friend group, expect lots of laughter when they’re all together!
Marilee and Jordan have been best friends since high school and they’d do anything for each other. So when Jordan got into some custody battle for his son Ryder, Marilee proposed for a marriage of convenience. Jordan can keep his family together and Marilee will have a co-signer for a loan so she can buy the local bakery. With a contract in place with rules such as only kissing when necessary Marilee thought they were set. However, living together and sharing a bed seems to bring up feelings that Marilee is not ready for.
I love Jordan and a Marilee’s friendship, the way they support each other especially when it comes to their dreams. Ryder, Jordan’s son is adorable and such a sweetheart.
Their first kiss was swoony and full of steam!
This small town, marriage of convenience, single dad, best friends to lovers is full of sweet and touching moments.
This is book 3 in the series so we get to see some of our other favorite Hallmark Beach favorites! I just love their friend group, expect lots of laughter when they’re all together!
May 3, 2025
Beachside Kisses With My Best Friend is the third book in Kristin Canary’s sweet Hallmark Beach rom com series. This time the story is about best friends Marlee and Jordan and how they finally opened up to each other about their true feelings and it only took a slight push in the form of a marriage if convenience to make it happen. Jordan knew Marlee was the one from the first moment they met but it wasn’t their time and Jordan waited patiently being Marlee’s friend until she was ready-ish to hear his truth. Marlee would do anything for Jordan and his son Ryder even if it means keeping her true feelings locked away.
Jordan patiently showed Marlee time and time again his true feelings for her and allowed her to make her choice because love is a choice and choosing to love with your whole heart is just what Marlee, Jordan and sweet little Ryder did.
Thank you @krisitncanaryauthor for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
Jordan patiently showed Marlee time and time again his true feelings for her and allowed her to make her choice because love is a choice and choosing to love with your whole heart is just what Marlee, Jordan and sweet little Ryder did.
Thank you @krisitncanaryauthor for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
May 10, 2025
This was my favorite book of the series! I'm not usually a fan of friends to lovers books because most plots are based on continual miscommunication and fear. But Jordan and Marilee had a believable back story and the best interactions.
May 5, 2025
A fantastic return to Hallmark Beach! Marilee and Jordan have the best friendship, and the way they both care for Ryder is just fantastic! I love a good marriage of convenience and this one did not disappoint! Check this book out asap, you won't be sad! Book 3 in the series, this book absolutely could be enjoyed out of order, with minimal spoilers for the previous books.
May 3, 2025
No notes - binged in one day 😍👏🏻
April 26, 2025
✨ Release Date: May 1 ✨
I have been looking forward to Jordan and Marilee’s story for SO long, and it was even better than I could have imagined! 😍
First of all, we get to see a flashback of them meeting, which was absolutely precious! 🥰
We get a look at Marilee’s history, which plays such a role in who she is today and what she expects out of life.
The story really picks up when there’s a question of Ryder’s custody and Jordan and Marilee work together to dispel any questions about what kind of parent Jordan is. We see so much of what makes Hallmark Beach incredible when all of their friends support them at every turn 🥹🥰
BRB selling my house and looking for real estate in Hallmark Beach 🏡
I have been looking forward to Jordan and Marilee’s story for SO long, and it was even better than I could have imagined! 😍
First of all, we get to see a flashback of them meeting, which was absolutely precious! 🥰
We get a look at Marilee’s history, which plays such a role in who she is today and what she expects out of life.
The story really picks up when there’s a question of Ryder’s custody and Jordan and Marilee work together to dispel any questions about what kind of parent Jordan is. We see so much of what makes Hallmark Beach incredible when all of their friends support them at every turn 🥹🥰
BRB selling my house and looking for real estate in Hallmark Beach 🏡
May 1, 2025
Kristin Canary has written a cute little town with friendships and relationships worth reading about.
If you like friends to more, single parents, relying on each other, baking, and that's my wife moments, check this one out.
If you like friends to more, single parents, relying on each other, baking, and that's my wife moments, check this one out.
May 3, 2025
Yes!!!
I’ll come back with more…
I’ll come back with more…
April 23, 2025
Jordan and Marilee. I was excited for this story! It was clear that Jordan has always loved Marilee. A marriage of convenience was just what they needed! Marilee is such a sweetheart. Jordan was fantastic and respected boundaries significantly even if it was potentially going to cause him a broken heart.
Things I loved about this book:
-their wedding. It was so sweet.
-Ryder—seriously such a great kid. He was so instrumental to the story.
-Jordan and Marilee’s Valentine date. It was so romantic.
-how Marilee just got Jordan and knew what he needed it the end.
Favorite Quotes:
Though I swear, today, the way Marilee looked at me during the ceremony… It was almost as if she saw me the way I’ve always seen her. Shoot. That’s some wishful thinking there. Wishful… and dangerous.
Let me ask you this—what did you feel when you kissed him?” “Nothing.” “I say this with all the love in my heart, dear, sweet, Marilee. That’s a bald-faced lie.”
“This is completely different. Jordan is different.” “I know that. But I’m not different.” “Except you are. You’re stronger with him by your side. An even better version of the incredible woman you already are. And that’s because he loves you the way you deserve to be loved.”
Things I loved about this book:
-their wedding. It was so sweet.
-Ryder—seriously such a great kid. He was so instrumental to the story.
-Jordan and Marilee’s Valentine date. It was so romantic.
-how Marilee just got Jordan and knew what he needed it the end.
Favorite Quotes:
Though I swear, today, the way Marilee looked at me during the ceremony… It was almost as if she saw me the way I’ve always seen her. Shoot. That’s some wishful thinking there. Wishful… and dangerous.
Let me ask you this—what did you feel when you kissed him?” “Nothing.” “I say this with all the love in my heart, dear, sweet, Marilee. That’s a bald-faced lie.”
“This is completely different. Jordan is different.” “I know that. But I’m not different.” “Except you are. You’re stronger with him by your side. An even better version of the incredible woman you already are. And that’s because he loves you the way you deserve to be loved.”
April 24, 2025
I guess I’ve been officially converted into a fan of the friends to more trope especially when fake marriage is the catalyst. I have been eagerly waiting for Jordan and Marilee’s story since book 1 in this series and I LOVED it.
The pacing of this book was absolutely fantastic and I adored that I didn’t spend the whole book thinking “if they’d just have a conversation“; things moved forward and progressed in a natural feeling way with tons of delicious little moments and soooooo much chemistry (um the chocolate sauce scene! 😊)
Also if you want a “my wife” scene then this is the one for you. Goosebumps! Literal Goosebumps 😍
And Aprils epilogue….!!!!
Thank you to the Author for an Advance review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The pacing of this book was absolutely fantastic and I adored that I didn’t spend the whole book thinking “if they’d just have a conversation“; things moved forward and progressed in a natural feeling way with tons of delicious little moments and soooooo much chemistry (um the chocolate sauce scene! 😊)
Also if you want a “my wife” scene then this is the one for you. Goosebumps! Literal Goosebumps 😍
And Aprils epilogue….!!!!
Thank you to the Author for an Advance review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
April 23, 2025
This sweet, adorable story is easily my favorite in this fun, heartwarming series from a beloved author! Kristin Canary once again delivers a heartfelt romance that had me sighing, swooning, and devouring the pages from start to finish.
Set in a charming seaside town, this book offered some great highlights—an endearing cake decorator, a swoon-worthy single dad, adorable little boy, and a custody battle that tugs at the heart. The fake dating and forced marriage tropes are done to perfection, and the friends-to-lovers arc made my heart melt in the best way.
Kristin's signature warmth, wit, and emotional depth shine through every page and character. I couldn’t put it down—and I didn’t want to! Highly recommend this one if you’re looking for a feel-good romance with just the right mix of sweetness, heartache, and happily-ever-after.
* I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.
Set in a charming seaside town, this book offered some great highlights—an endearing cake decorator, a swoon-worthy single dad, adorable little boy, and a custody battle that tugs at the heart. The fake dating and forced marriage tropes are done to perfection, and the friends-to-lovers arc made my heart melt in the best way.
Kristin's signature warmth, wit, and emotional depth shine through every page and character. I couldn’t put it down—and I didn’t want to! Highly recommend this one if you’re looking for a feel-good romance with just the right mix of sweetness, heartache, and happily-ever-after.
* I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.
April 23, 2025
My favorite book in the series! (So far😉)
Jordan and Marilee are the most adorable couple!
Marilee’s love for Jordan’s son will make you tear up by the end of the book.
Content note- There is a little talk about past miscarriage. The author does an amazing job of validating the grief that it brings.
Jordan and Marilee are the most adorable couple!
Marilee’s love for Jordan’s son will make you tear up by the end of the book.
Content note- There is a little talk about past miscarriage. The author does an amazing job of validating the grief that it brings.
April 10, 2025
Beachside Kisses With My Best Friend is the third book in the Hallmark Beach series. While you'll see some familiar characters if you've read the previous books, this could be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
Oh, I did not expect the absolutely emotional roller coaster that Jordan and Marilee took me on! Yes, it was very much a romantic comedy with those moments that had me smiling and laughing throughout... but it was also tender and romantic. The way these two loved each other... and Ryder? Just beautiful. Right from the start, I found myself rooting for these two and wanting to see them finally get their happily ever after. They might have taken a long and unconventional road to get there, but what a payoff! Marriage of convenience also happens to be one of my favorites, and this one was done so well... the 'that's my wife' moment!? Um, yes please! There was truly so much to love in this story! While the overall feeling of this book is lighter, it doesn't shy away from taking on some hard topics as well to include mentions of miscarriage, emotional abuse, grief and alcoholism, adding so much depth to their story and making me love it that much more. I've enjoyed every single book in this series, but this one might just be my favorite one yet!
Beachside Kisses With My Best Friend is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Oh, I did not expect the absolutely emotional roller coaster that Jordan and Marilee took me on! Yes, it was very much a romantic comedy with those moments that had me smiling and laughing throughout... but it was also tender and romantic. The way these two loved each other... and Ryder? Just beautiful. Right from the start, I found myself rooting for these two and wanting to see them finally get their happily ever after. They might have taken a long and unconventional road to get there, but what a payoff! Marriage of convenience also happens to be one of my favorites, and this one was done so well... the 'that's my wife' moment!? Um, yes please! There was truly so much to love in this story! While the overall feeling of this book is lighter, it doesn't shy away from taking on some hard topics as well to include mentions of miscarriage, emotional abuse, grief and alcoholism, adding so much depth to their story and making me love it that much more. I've enjoyed every single book in this series, but this one might just be my favorite one yet!
Beachside Kisses With My Best Friend is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
May 1, 2025
I love friends to lovers. I’m a sucker for it actually. I love how there’re so many situations to express the longing and feelings of one/or both of the characters. The reluctance of changing the dynamic of the relationship. It leads to such depth of emotions and tension that I’m enraptured when it’s done well. And this one is done well!!
Jordan, sweet golden retriever, Jordan. He is gone for Marilee the moment he laid eyes on her. I adore his love for Marilee. Really his love for everyone that he loves.
Marilee was so sweet and I love her love of Christmas! Her story tugged at and broke my heart. She’s suffered much yet her resilience shines through.
This was a tender and emotional story perfectly balanced with lots of swoon and sweet moments.
Highlights:
💍Marriage of convenience
💍Pancakes
💍Chocolate sauce
💍Valentine’s Day
💍Ryder
💍Camping
💍Epilogue
The emotions, the feels, the smiles. Unexpectedly emotional but beautifully executed. I adore Jordan and Marilee!
Thank you to Kristin Canary for the copy. All opinions are my own.
Jordan, sweet golden retriever, Jordan. He is gone for Marilee the moment he laid eyes on her. I adore his love for Marilee. Really his love for everyone that he loves.
Marilee was so sweet and I love her love of Christmas! Her story tugged at and broke my heart. She’s suffered much yet her resilience shines through.
This was a tender and emotional story perfectly balanced with lots of swoon and sweet moments.
Highlights:
💍Marriage of convenience
💍Pancakes
💍Chocolate sauce
💍Valentine’s Day
💍Ryder
💍Camping
💍Epilogue
The emotions, the feels, the smiles. Unexpectedly emotional but beautifully executed. I adore Jordan and Marilee!
Thank you to Kristin Canary for the copy. All opinions are my own.
May 1, 2025
I absolutely loved this fantastic book! I was immediately hooked by the first few paragraphs, and I had a hard time putting the book down.
I’ve been eagerly looking forward to Marilee and Jordan’s story after reading about the two of them in the previous books in the series, and this story was everything I hoped it would be! The character development is so well written, the romance is *chef’s kiss* perfection, their friendship is so sweet and wholesome, and I loved seeing their relationship progress. Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite tropes, and I thought the friends to more trope blended perfectly with that one in this story!
Hallmark Beach sounds like a delightful place to live, and I love visiting it through the pages of a book! Ryder, Jordan’s son, is precious, and he made me happy to read about. I also adore when series have an awesome friend group, and this series has that! Friendship is such a beautiful and important thing to have, and it’s great to see how supportive the friends all are in this book. They’re also funny and fun to read about!
This book was everything I hoped it would be, and I loved it so much! I’m excited to see what will happen in the next book in the series!
TW: past miscarriages mentioned, past emotional abuse mentioned
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I’ve been eagerly looking forward to Marilee and Jordan’s story after reading about the two of them in the previous books in the series, and this story was everything I hoped it would be! The character development is so well written, the romance is *chef’s kiss* perfection, their friendship is so sweet and wholesome, and I loved seeing their relationship progress. Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite tropes, and I thought the friends to more trope blended perfectly with that one in this story!
Hallmark Beach sounds like a delightful place to live, and I love visiting it through the pages of a book! Ryder, Jordan’s son, is precious, and he made me happy to read about. I also adore when series have an awesome friend group, and this series has that! Friendship is such a beautiful and important thing to have, and it’s great to see how supportive the friends all are in this book. They’re also funny and fun to read about!
This book was everything I hoped it would be, and I loved it so much! I’m excited to see what will happen in the next book in the series!
TW: past miscarriages mentioned, past emotional abuse mentioned
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 21, 2025
I love a good friends to lovers romance, and this one pulled all the stops. It was sweet, funny, emotional and even heartbreaking at times. But there was something so comforting about their journey. It wasn't always easy-- Jordan and Marilee had lots of scars-- but they always supported each other and had the others back. The communication in this story was also so refreshing. Marilee was so open about her struggles and Jordan was just there to listen. I loved these three so much. Ryder will instantly steal your heart and never let go.
Kristen did such an incredible job bringing such real struggles to page while also delivering a fun and sweet story that will make you laugh out loud but maybe also cry at times. 🤭 She also gives us a "my wife" moment they will live rent free in my head. 🤣🤍
If you like-- friends to lovers, forced proximity, "my wife", marriage of convenience, single dad, closed door rom-coms --then this one is for you!!
Kristen did such an incredible job bringing such real struggles to page while also delivering a fun and sweet story that will make you laugh out loud but maybe also cry at times. 🤭 She also gives us a "my wife" moment they will live rent free in my head. 🤣🤍
If you like-- friends to lovers, forced proximity, "my wife", marriage of convenience, single dad, closed door rom-coms --then this one is for you!!
April 14, 2025
-Friends to lovers
-Marriage of convenience
-Only one bed
-Single dad
-“That’s my wife”
-Small town
-Baker
-Forced proximity
The wait was worth it for this one! I adore Kristin Canary’s writing. This book has everything you want: romance, friendships, and healing. I love Marilee and Jordan together, and I love how they are always there for each other. Canary outdid herself with this one, and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!
Go ahead and preorder this one. You won’t be disappointed!
Content Warnings:
-Death of parents (past)
-Discussion of past miscarriages
-Emotionally abusive ex
-Alcoholic father
-Kisses only
-No language
*Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
-Marriage of convenience
-Only one bed
-Single dad
-“That’s my wife”
-Small town
-Baker
-Forced proximity
The wait was worth it for this one! I adore Kristin Canary’s writing. This book has everything you want: romance, friendships, and healing. I love Marilee and Jordan together, and I love how they are always there for each other. Canary outdid herself with this one, and I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!
Go ahead and preorder this one. You won’t be disappointed!
Content Warnings:
-Death of parents (past)
-Discussion of past miscarriages
-Emotionally abusive ex
-Alcoholic father
-Kisses only
-No language
*Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 3, 2025
I was so looking forward to this story that’s been teased throughout the series, but I was really disappointed. Jordan and little Ryder were great, but Marilee did all of the things that drive me nuts in an FMC. I just wanted to shake her by the shoulders half the time. Way too many “he’d be better off without me” lines and the irritating actions that accompany them. Too bad, because this had the potential to be really great.
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