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The Lawsons #1
Loathe at First Sight
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would have to give up my amazing life and move back to Lilly Leaf Falls. But sometimes when life gives you lemons, you just have to throw it all away and start over...because what's lemonade without the sugar?
Now, I'm here and constantly at odds with the new mechanic in town who seems to hate me for some unknown reason. Everyone in town seems to love Jack, though, and I am public enemy number one. They all want to know what happened to incur my fall from grace, but it's none of their business.
I like my secrets.
And apparently, Jack has some of his own. It's the one thing that we could actually bond over.
That is, if we can stop hating each other long enough.
Now, I'm here and constantly at odds with the new mechanic in town who seems to hate me for some unknown reason. Everyone in town seems to love Jack, though, and I am public enemy number one. They all want to know what happened to incur my fall from grace, but it's none of their business.
I like my secrets.
And apparently, Jack has some of his own. It's the one thing that we could actually bond over.
That is, if we can stop hating each other long enough.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 13, 2024
69 people are currently reading
333 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
June 9, 2024
I saw the blurb of this and immediately wanted to read it. I love a small town and a good enemies to lovers read.
I also loved liz and jack. I love how he put liz into her place and how she slowly but surely becomes a warmer, more pleasant person.
These two really are the perfect match in the end.
I did read this book within 24hrs and I did really throughly enjoy it.
Received arc for honest review.
I also loved liz and jack. I love how he put liz into her place and how she slowly but surely becomes a warmer, more pleasant person.
These two really are the perfect match in the end.
I did read this book within 24hrs and I did really throughly enjoy it.
Received arc for honest review.
did-not-finish
February 18, 2025DNF at 13%.
The depiction of these two is flat and not compelling. He sleeps around and isn't looking for a relationship. She's rude to strangers and a bit of a hot mess.
I could persist, but I don't wanna.
The depiction of these two is flat and not compelling. He sleeps around and isn't looking for a relationship. She's rude to strangers and a bit of a hot mess.
I could persist, but I don't wanna.
March 22, 2025
This book contained two of my favorite tropes: enemies to lovers and small town romance. It sucked me in right from the beginning. I loved Jack!
This was such a fun rom-com that I couldn't put down. I'm looking forward to book two.
Thank you to Stephanie Renee for the free ARC.
This was such a fun rom-com that I couldn't put down. I'm looking forward to book two.
Thank you to Stephanie Renee for the free ARC.
March 10, 2025
Awesome read, lots of banter and drama. A small town romance, they two MC loathe each other. Slow burn, wonderful family dianamic. Hate a first sight.
Enemies to lovers. My first book by this author moving on to book two in series.
Enemies to lovers. My first book by this author moving on to book two in series.
June 15, 2024
love Liz and Jack
O-M-G they really loathe each other!!!! And I really enjoy every single moment of their demonstration lol. I laughed so hard at some point. Liz is amazing and Jack doesn’t have to do much to show himself as grumpy. The slow burn was killing me but it was so good. And they both had a mouth… so hawt. When they want they are hilarious together lol I love them. And when the romance hit they are amazing together. I love how little by little they fall in love with each other and how they learn to be the perfect match to the other. I love The Lawson’s and Jack’s mom too. This small town has so much to offer. Can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
O-M-G they really loathe each other!!!! And I really enjoy every single moment of their demonstration lol. I laughed so hard at some point. Liz is amazing and Jack doesn’t have to do much to show himself as grumpy. The slow burn was killing me but it was so good. And they both had a mouth… so hawt. When they want they are hilarious together lol I love them. And when the romance hit they are amazing together. I love how little by little they fall in love with each other and how they learn to be the perfect match to the other. I love The Lawson’s and Jack’s mom too. This small town has so much to offer. Can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
June 2, 2024
Great build up of the enemies to lovers trope! You definitely knew the main characters couldn't stand each other, but that tension, though...phew.
Liz showed impressive growth as she got back to her roots, but it did take a while for her to get there. In her quest to go out and do big things, she forgot where she came from, but Jack helped her remember. As he was able to shake his perception of her and drop his own walls, their relationship flourished. He helped her realize the anger she was holding onto was holding her back, and then he worked with her to let it out.
I loved seeing Liz repair the relationship with her family, especially her mom and sister. She was willing to put in the work, and their slow reconciliation was realistic and heartwarming.
My favorite part was Jack and Liz visiting his mom. She was a hoot and a holler!! lol
Liz showed impressive growth as she got back to her roots, but it did take a while for her to get there. In her quest to go out and do big things, she forgot where she came from, but Jack helped her remember. As he was able to shake his perception of her and drop his own walls, their relationship flourished. He helped her realize the anger she was holding onto was holding her back, and then he worked with her to let it out.
I loved seeing Liz repair the relationship with her family, especially her mom and sister. She was willing to put in the work, and their slow reconciliation was realistic and heartwarming.
My favorite part was Jack and Liz visiting his mom. She was a hoot and a holler!! lol
October 9, 2025
This is an enemies to lovers book. Super quick read..finished about 95% of the book in 24 hours. The back and forth banter between Liz and Jack was engaging and fun. I do wish there would have been a bit more of something between when they finally got together and then threw out the ‘ I love you’ and moved in together but overall a good read. Looking forward to reading the others!
Shoutout to Stephanie for the free ARC.
Shoutout to Stephanie for the free ARC.
September 10, 2025
Slow burn, enemies to lovers romance a little spicy.
I enjoyed the book very much, easy to read and follow.
I love how they both have a past and how they are able to understand each other, but FMC is a little annoying and hard to like in the beginning lol 😆.
I enjoyed the book very much, easy to read and follow.
I love how they both have a past and how they are able to understand each other, but FMC is a little annoying and hard to like in the beginning lol 😆.
October 18, 2025
STEPHANIE. I need these in audiobook form!
Seriously though, the small town Hallmark, but make it smutty. The scenes those movies skip? Not here. I enjoy these and this series so much. Now to the next!
Seriously though, the small town Hallmark, but make it smutty. The scenes those movies skip? Not here. I enjoy these and this series so much. Now to the next!
June 14, 2024
What a sweet slow burn story that left me in giggles more than once. The moment Liz and Jack met fireworks lit the sky, but not sexy ones, more like a dressing down from Liz. Liz’s life just turned upside down and she’s headed back to the one place she never thought she’d return, her hometown. Jack’s life has also had major upheaval, but he sought refuge in this tiny town as he was driving thru. Jack and Liz need to learn how to live cohesively in the same town.
May 31, 2024
This book was super cute! Small-town romance, enemies to lovers, banter and drama. What's not to love?
The book was an quick and easy read and there are some 🌶️🌶️ (imo) spicy scenes and just an overall fun, enjoyable read.
*Received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The book was an quick and easy read and there are some 🌶️🌶️ (imo) spicy scenes and just an overall fun, enjoyable read.
*Received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2024
This is book one of The Lawson’s series and the main characters are Liz (Eliza) Lawson, who has to return to her hometown of Lilly Leaf Falls in a bit of disgrace, and Jack Barrett, who has his own disaster of a past he tries to keep secret. Liz was the oldest of five siblings and moved away for college and then started her own real estate business in LA. She ended up having a male friend join her to help, eventually becoming more than just friends, only for him to rip her off completely, leaving her to deal with all the mess he left behind, as only her name was on the business! She lost everything apart from her car and has nowhere to go apart from back to her parent’s home. She stops for gas just before reaching town, only to find they only take cash and she has none left in her account, just a credit card almost at its limit! Jack is in the queue in the shop and offers to pay for her gas, but she refuses to take a handout and is quite rude about it. She looks just like the city women he used to take out when he lived in Miami and who took him for what they could get from his fame. He lost nearly everything after an accident and a drug test, and left to find somewhere he could reinvent himself, ending up in her hometown. He now owns a garage and has a tow truck to go out and help people who break down, which is what happens to Liz shortly afterwards, as she breaks down! She isn’t keen to have him help her out, especially since he keeps calling her a ‘princess’!
She hasn’t made a very good impression on the townsfolk, nor some of her family, not having even come home for years, being too busy with her business. She has left the impression that she is too good for the town! Jack however, seems to be loved by everyone. He kept his mouth shut and refused to talk about his past, instead being helpful to everyone, until they stopped asking him questions. Liz will find that her only brother actually works for Jack and also thinks he is a good guy. One of her sisters isn’t speaking to her and even her mum has harsh words for her! Jack and Liz seem to rub each other the wrong way, but they say hate is only one step away from love. When she literally runs into him when he is out running on one of the trails around town, he gets to see more of her figure and it sparks an attraction he tries to ignore. She lies about in her old bedroom, unsure what she might be able to do next, as there aren’t exactly many jobs available in such a small town. Her mother won’t allow her to lay about doing nothing, and tells her she needs to either come and help in their restaurant or go and help the local inn owner. Work at the inn isn’t exactly difficult, as there aren’t many customers and the owner is in her early nineties and thinking of selling. It’s only when one of his other mechanics mentions wanting to ask her out, that a touch of jealousy raises its head, even though he tries to deny he is interested in her! A few more run-ins and snarky comments back and forth, and a kiss soon turns into so much more! They bond over their similar issues of the past, and their attraction grows with a severe relationship forming between them. An unexpected twist at the end with a possible new future suddenly opening up for her. From hate to love with a bit of snark!
I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
She hasn’t made a very good impression on the townsfolk, nor some of her family, not having even come home for years, being too busy with her business. She has left the impression that she is too good for the town! Jack however, seems to be loved by everyone. He kept his mouth shut and refused to talk about his past, instead being helpful to everyone, until they stopped asking him questions. Liz will find that her only brother actually works for Jack and also thinks he is a good guy. One of her sisters isn’t speaking to her and even her mum has harsh words for her! Jack and Liz seem to rub each other the wrong way, but they say hate is only one step away from love. When she literally runs into him when he is out running on one of the trails around town, he gets to see more of her figure and it sparks an attraction he tries to ignore. She lies about in her old bedroom, unsure what she might be able to do next, as there aren’t exactly many jobs available in such a small town. Her mother won’t allow her to lay about doing nothing, and tells her she needs to either come and help in their restaurant or go and help the local inn owner. Work at the inn isn’t exactly difficult, as there aren’t many customers and the owner is in her early nineties and thinking of selling. It’s only when one of his other mechanics mentions wanting to ask her out, that a touch of jealousy raises its head, even though he tries to deny he is interested in her! A few more run-ins and snarky comments back and forth, and a kiss soon turns into so much more! They bond over their similar issues of the past, and their attraction grows with a severe relationship forming between them. An unexpected twist at the end with a possible new future suddenly opening up for her. From hate to love with a bit of snark!
I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
June 21, 2024
Have you ever read a book where you missed the characters as soon as you finished reading the words "The End?" Well, 𝑳𝒐𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝑭𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝑺𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 was that book for me! I really could not put it down! It was so good! 😍
𝑳𝒐𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝑭𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝑺𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 is a beautiful enemies-to-lovers story with two people, Liz and Jack, who are running from their past and have suitcases full of secrets that they would like to keep packed away and stored deep in their closets.
After a chance meeting that does not go well, they both tell themselves that they have nothing in common and are determined to stay away from each other. But, as the old saying goes, sometimes, maybe, opposites do really attract (and sometimes, when we open our eyes, we find that we have more in common than we think).
Although they try hard to fight their mutual physical attraction to each other, the universe keeps bringing them together. Will they be able to put their past hurts and inhibitions aside to give love a try?
This is one of the best enemies to lovers I have read in a long time. We are told at the beginning of the book that this will be a slow burn, and though I often find these to be arduous and frustrating to read, this story was opposite of that. Though a slow burn, the pacing was perfect. The wait was well worth it and was important and necessary to the development of the characters. To finally see how Liz and Jack finally connect, and their love blossom, was beautiful.
Some of the scenes between Liz and Jack were full of tension but I absolutely loved their banter. I laughed so much while reading this book and it was a true breath of fresh air; it was so fun to read. And let’s not forget the spiciness (Oh my!! 🌶️❤️🔥🔥🥵) it was so good!
I not only fell in love with Liz and Jack but I also loved how the author took her time to develop the ancillary/background characters. I loved seeing how Liz’s relationship with her mom changed over time and just how she was able to mend some relationships as the story continued. It was an all-around beautiful small town love story, and I did not want to leave Lilly Leaf Falls. I cannot wait for Dylan’s story, and I am so excited that each of the siblings get their own books. I cannot wait to delve more into Michelle and Ronnie’s lives and see what Jo has going on!
Tropes
❤️ Enemies to Lovers
❤️ Cozy Small Town Romance
❤️ Return to Town
❤️ Sassy MFC
❤️ Slow Burn
❤️ Secret Pining
❤️ Funny Banter
❤️ Spicy 🌶️
❤️ Secrets / Painful Past
❤️ Who Hurt You
❤️ RomCom
10/10 I would recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
𝑳𝒐𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝑭𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕 𝑺𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 is a beautiful enemies-to-lovers story with two people, Liz and Jack, who are running from their past and have suitcases full of secrets that they would like to keep packed away and stored deep in their closets.
After a chance meeting that does not go well, they both tell themselves that they have nothing in common and are determined to stay away from each other. But, as the old saying goes, sometimes, maybe, opposites do really attract (and sometimes, when we open our eyes, we find that we have more in common than we think).
Although they try hard to fight their mutual physical attraction to each other, the universe keeps bringing them together. Will they be able to put their past hurts and inhibitions aside to give love a try?
This is one of the best enemies to lovers I have read in a long time. We are told at the beginning of the book that this will be a slow burn, and though I often find these to be arduous and frustrating to read, this story was opposite of that. Though a slow burn, the pacing was perfect. The wait was well worth it and was important and necessary to the development of the characters. To finally see how Liz and Jack finally connect, and their love blossom, was beautiful.
Some of the scenes between Liz and Jack were full of tension but I absolutely loved their banter. I laughed so much while reading this book and it was a true breath of fresh air; it was so fun to read. And let’s not forget the spiciness (Oh my!! 🌶️❤️🔥🔥🥵) it was so good!
I not only fell in love with Liz and Jack but I also loved how the author took her time to develop the ancillary/background characters. I loved seeing how Liz’s relationship with her mom changed over time and just how she was able to mend some relationships as the story continued. It was an all-around beautiful small town love story, and I did not want to leave Lilly Leaf Falls. I cannot wait for Dylan’s story, and I am so excited that each of the siblings get their own books. I cannot wait to delve more into Michelle and Ronnie’s lives and see what Jo has going on!
Tropes
❤️ Enemies to Lovers
❤️ Cozy Small Town Romance
❤️ Return to Town
❤️ Sassy MFC
❤️ Slow Burn
❤️ Secret Pining
❤️ Funny Banter
❤️ Spicy 🌶️
❤️ Secrets / Painful Past
❤️ Who Hurt You
❤️ RomCom
10/10 I would recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2024
Honest ARC Review
4.75 stars
Any issues are my own and not the fault of the author
HEA
Series, Innerconnected characters
Enemies to Lovers, Small Town, SLOW Burn
The Lawson's Book 1
Lilly Leaf Falls book universe
Trigger/ Content Warnings
Issues with family
Death of parent (KIA)
Trouble with exs
Possible drug use
Jack (36, mmc, machanic)
Liz / Eliza (33, mfc, unemployed)
Jamie (23, employee of mmc)
Ronnie/Veronica (sister of mfc)
Michelle (sister of mfc, teen mom)
Dylan (brother of mfc, twin to Ronnie, works for mmc)
Jo (baby sister of mfc)
Misty (local woman)
Suzanne Lawson (mother of mfc)
Andre/Andreas (father of mfc)
Ellie (dog)
The initial meeting of these two mains was explosive and astounding. Jack was trying to be nice, but little Ms Citygirl was rude as all-get-out. She's literally acting like a brat who doesn't understand kindness or generosity. (Well-written, can't wait for the redemption)
He thought he was done with her after that exchange, but he found her broken down on the side of the road shortly after. Liz isn't much nicer there. He keeps rescuing her, and she keeps resenting the fact that she needs help. You may very well start out hating her, but you'll feel for her by the end. She's built walls for a reason. Everyone else can see their chemistry. All it would take was a tiny spark to set it off, but Jack is doing everything in his power to make sure that doesn't happen. One day, she confronts him over what she thinks is him overstepping. That tiny spark ignites a blazer neither are prepared for. With both of their pasts being fraught with complexities and issues, can they make a future together? Or will this just be some good ol' hate smashing?
I haven't read a slow-burn in a while, but this one was well worth it. The banter, the back-and-forth, and even the family drama just pulls you into the story.
4.75 stars
Any issues are my own and not the fault of the author
HEA
Series, Innerconnected characters
Enemies to Lovers, Small Town, SLOW Burn
The Lawson's Book 1
Lilly Leaf Falls book universe
Trigger/ Content Warnings
Issues with family
Death of parent (KIA)
Trouble with exs
Possible drug use
Jack (36, mmc, machanic)
Liz / Eliza (33, mfc, unemployed)
Jamie (23, employee of mmc)
Ronnie/Veronica (sister of mfc)
Michelle (sister of mfc, teen mom)
Dylan (brother of mfc, twin to Ronnie, works for mmc)
Jo (baby sister of mfc)
Misty (local woman)
Suzanne Lawson (mother of mfc)
Andre/Andreas (father of mfc)
Ellie (dog)
The initial meeting of these two mains was explosive and astounding. Jack was trying to be nice, but little Ms Citygirl was rude as all-get-out. She's literally acting like a brat who doesn't understand kindness or generosity. (Well-written, can't wait for the redemption)
He thought he was done with her after that exchange, but he found her broken down on the side of the road shortly after. Liz isn't much nicer there. He keeps rescuing her, and she keeps resenting the fact that she needs help. You may very well start out hating her, but you'll feel for her by the end. She's built walls for a reason. Everyone else can see their chemistry. All it would take was a tiny spark to set it off, but Jack is doing everything in his power to make sure that doesn't happen. One day, she confronts him over what she thinks is him overstepping. That tiny spark ignites a blazer neither are prepared for. With both of their pasts being fraught with complexities and issues, can they make a future together? Or will this just be some good ol' hate smashing?
I haven't read a slow-burn in a while, but this one was well worth it. The banter, the back-and-forth, and even the family drama just pulls you into the story.
June 20, 2024
OMG! So much fun!!!
After a humiliating betrayal and losing just about everything in LA, Liz finds herself doing the one thing she swore she never would - moving back home. To Lilly Leaf Falls.
She tears into town in her sports car, filled with all the worldly possessions she has left. It's not exactly a warm welcome, including from some of her family. And she's got a huge chip on her shoulder, so her snark factor is high. She ticks off a lot of people real quick, including the town's favorite auto mechanic, Jack. That comes back to bite her pretty quick, too, when her car dies and he's the first one to drive by. What are the odds? Oh, and her brother works for him! Perfect.
Jack is not a fan of Liz. She's got attitude in spades. From the moment they meet, they're arguing. It doesn't help that she reminds him of all the women he had known in his former life. The ones who only wanted him to help their own image. Typical city girl - dressed to the nines, with high heels that will walk all over you. No, thanks.
But it's a small town, and they keep running into each other, sometimes literally. Turns out, they kinda like arguing with each other, and pushing each other's buttons. Arguing turns into banter, and banter turns into something else!
But they both have secrets they'd rather keep hidden. What will happen when those secrets come out?
Oh, the snarky banter and wit is just so much fun!! Add in a bunch of nosy siblings, and a whole town that seems to be giving Liz a stank eye, and I just couldn't get enough!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After a humiliating betrayal and losing just about everything in LA, Liz finds herself doing the one thing she swore she never would - moving back home. To Lilly Leaf Falls.
She tears into town in her sports car, filled with all the worldly possessions she has left. It's not exactly a warm welcome, including from some of her family. And she's got a huge chip on her shoulder, so her snark factor is high. She ticks off a lot of people real quick, including the town's favorite auto mechanic, Jack. That comes back to bite her pretty quick, too, when her car dies and he's the first one to drive by. What are the odds? Oh, and her brother works for him! Perfect.
Jack is not a fan of Liz. She's got attitude in spades. From the moment they meet, they're arguing. It doesn't help that she reminds him of all the women he had known in his former life. The ones who only wanted him to help their own image. Typical city girl - dressed to the nines, with high heels that will walk all over you. No, thanks.
But it's a small town, and they keep running into each other, sometimes literally. Turns out, they kinda like arguing with each other, and pushing each other's buttons. Arguing turns into banter, and banter turns into something else!
But they both have secrets they'd rather keep hidden. What will happen when those secrets come out?
Oh, the snarky banter and wit is just so much fun!! Add in a bunch of nosy siblings, and a whole town that seems to be giving Liz a stank eye, and I just couldn't get enough!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 16, 2024
So witty, enemies to lovers romance 5*
This was the first book from this author but hopefully not the last! I enjoyed the witty interaction between the sassy and often rude Liz, coming back home after the disastrous way her business ended and Jack, the small town's car repair shop owner. They don't get off on the right foot and they mutually develop an intense dislike for the other. They desperately wanted to avoid each other, but that was practically impossible in a small town. The author had very well handled the slow change in their attitude to each other. They each had their traumas they wanted to keep private and try to move on. Neither of them was looking for a relationship, not even for a hook-up. Life however has a few surprises that neither of them was ready for. The novel was an enjoyable, easy-to-read, well-written piece of work with good vocabulary and scene-appropriate very witty dialogue. The characters were well-developed and were perfect or each other. It was great to see how the protagonists realised that together they can heal from their past traumas. There is an unexpected turn of events which will ultimately help Liz realise her aspirations. The book ends on a happy for-now but their story will continue in another episode which I'm very much looking forward to reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was the first book from this author but hopefully not the last! I enjoyed the witty interaction between the sassy and often rude Liz, coming back home after the disastrous way her business ended and Jack, the small town's car repair shop owner. They don't get off on the right foot and they mutually develop an intense dislike for the other. They desperately wanted to avoid each other, but that was practically impossible in a small town. The author had very well handled the slow change in their attitude to each other. They each had their traumas they wanted to keep private and try to move on. Neither of them was looking for a relationship, not even for a hook-up. Life however has a few surprises that neither of them was ready for. The novel was an enjoyable, easy-to-read, well-written piece of work with good vocabulary and scene-appropriate very witty dialogue. The characters were well-developed and were perfect or each other. It was great to see how the protagonists realised that together they can heal from their past traumas. There is an unexpected turn of events which will ultimately help Liz realise her aspirations. The book ends on a happy for-now but their story will continue in another episode which I'm very much looking forward to reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
January 22, 2026If you want a simple small town romance with very little action, this book is for you. Sometimes you just need a palate cleanser between longer or more angsty reads. You get the enemies to lovers feel without all of the waiting.
When Liz Lawson comes back home after five years because of some bad business decisions, she immediately comes off as combatant. She is hurt, embarrassed, and nervous and comes across as big city rude and hateful with a better-than-thou aura.
Jack Barnett has carved out a home in his small town and everyone loves him, except Liz. She acts exactly as he expects her to and he immediately doesn't like her. To him, she is a stark reminder of a past he's worked so hard to leave behind.
Will they eventually learn to look past their own assumptions to see the actual person or will they keep hating each other?
I really enjoyed the writing and the length was perfect for a relaxing evening read. I loved the banter and I am always in favor of a dual point of view. I really appreciate being able to get insight into what each of the main characters are thinking, especially in a shorter read. It adds a depth to the story and allows the author to pack a bigger punch in a smaller package.
Overall I highly recommend this read. There's enough conflict to keep it interesting, enough fluff to keep it cute, enough spice to keep it entertaining, and short enough to pack it all into one evening.
When Liz Lawson comes back home after five years because of some bad business decisions, she immediately comes off as combatant. She is hurt, embarrassed, and nervous and comes across as big city rude and hateful with a better-than-thou aura.
Jack Barnett has carved out a home in his small town and everyone loves him, except Liz. She acts exactly as he expects her to and he immediately doesn't like her. To him, she is a stark reminder of a past he's worked so hard to leave behind.
Will they eventually learn to look past their own assumptions to see the actual person or will they keep hating each other?
I really enjoyed the writing and the length was perfect for a relaxing evening read. I loved the banter and I am always in favor of a dual point of view. I really appreciate being able to get insight into what each of the main characters are thinking, especially in a shorter read. It adds a depth to the story and allows the author to pack a bigger punch in a smaller package.
Overall I highly recommend this read. There's enough conflict to keep it interesting, enough fluff to keep it cute, enough spice to keep it entertaining, and short enough to pack it all into one evening.
May 26, 2024
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a complimentary copy. Liz (Eliza) Lawson left Lilly Leaf Falls and moved to LA, she had a successful real estate career but things went south (read to find out ) and now she is forced to go home after almost no contact to her family. I am going to be honest I did not like Liz at all, I found her swallow, snobby and unpleasant when the book started out. Who leaves their family behind and does not visit in 5 years, how cruel. I don't always get along with my family but I call, text and pop in for visits (that made me sad for her family and pissed off with her).
Jack was a different story, loved him. His past is not really know in the beginning except for he does not like high maintenance woman and when Liz and Jack first meet, well it is not a good first impression on Liz's part. She behaves like a troll. Jack puts her in her place not expecting to see her again even though deep, deep down she intrigues him.
Lilly Leaf Falls is a small town and they do keeping running into each other and it takes a beat for them to warm up to each other but when they do they start off as friends. I liked how Liz slowly became a warmer, more likable person and how she let not only Jack in but her family as well. These two really are perfect for each other because they both have past that dented them.
Jack was a different story, loved him. His past is not really know in the beginning except for he does not like high maintenance woman and when Liz and Jack first meet, well it is not a good first impression on Liz's part. She behaves like a troll. Jack puts her in her place not expecting to see her again even though deep, deep down she intrigues him.
Lilly Leaf Falls is a small town and they do keeping running into each other and it takes a beat for them to warm up to each other but when they do they start off as friends. I liked how Liz slowly became a warmer, more likable person and how she let not only Jack in but her family as well. These two really are perfect for each other because they both have past that dented them.
June 12, 2024
Looking for an enemies-to-lovers romance that will have you laughing at the banter and love-to-hate relationship between Liz and Jack, then this is the book for you. Right from the start you know that there was going to be a sexual tension so thick that a knife wouldn't be able to cut through it.
Ms Renee did an amazing job of giving us two people dealing with a past full of anger, hurt and betrayal. Liz ran back home from the hell that her life was but is not welcomed with open arms. Her first run-in is with Jack, the sexy, blurry mechanic who tries to help her out but she acts like a spoiled brat so he walks away. Little did the both of them know he would get the last laugh. Life back in Lily Leaf Falls is not what Liz wanted and it was the last place she wanted to end up but she was between a rock and a hard place. The tension, verbal fighting and angst they had for one another added to the fact that they were attracted to one another.
I was not too impressed with Liz and her attitude towards her hometown and family. She came across as though everyone and everything there was beneath her. However, as she spent more time there and healed damaged relationships, I saw a woman who just wanted her family to be loved. I also think that Jack had much to do with her character change. She became more of a caring person and not so self-centered.
Ms Renee did an amazing job of giving us two people dealing with a past full of anger, hurt and betrayal. Liz ran back home from the hell that her life was but is not welcomed with open arms. Her first run-in is with Jack, the sexy, blurry mechanic who tries to help her out but she acts like a spoiled brat so he walks away. Little did the both of them know he would get the last laugh. Life back in Lily Leaf Falls is not what Liz wanted and it was the last place she wanted to end up but she was between a rock and a hard place. The tension, verbal fighting and angst they had for one another added to the fact that they were attracted to one another.
I was not too impressed with Liz and her attitude towards her hometown and family. She came across as though everyone and everything there was beneath her. However, as she spent more time there and healed damaged relationships, I saw a woman who just wanted her family to be loved. I also think that Jack had much to do with her character change. She became more of a caring person and not so self-centered.
September 13, 2025
Really enjoyed this book! I’m a sucker for small-town romances and enemies-to-lovers, so this was an instant win for me. The tension between Liz and Jack was sharp, funny, and addictive. I couldn’t put it down.
Liz was prickly and guarded, but watching her soften and reconnect with her family felt realistic and heartwarming. Jack’s grumpy charm balanced her perfectly, and I loved how their relationship developed from pure loathing into something supportive and tender. The side characters (especially Jack’s mom and Liz’s family) added so much depth, making Lilly Leaf Falls a small town I want to visit.
This is one of those rom-coms that’s both hilarious and heartfelt, with drama, growth, and a romance that hits just right. Perfect for fans of slow-burn angst with a sweet payoff.
If you love:
🔹 Enemies to lovers
🔹 Small town romance
🔹 Banter + slow burn tension
🔹 Strong family dynamics
Physical/Ebook: Ebook
Pages: ~
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫 (4.5/5)
Spice: 🌶️
POV: Dual POV
Series or Standalone: Book 1 interconected standalones
Tropes/Themes: Enemies-to-lovers, grumpy/sunshine, family healing, small town life
Mentions: Secrets, family estrangement, grief/loss (check triggers if sensitive)
⚠️ Triggers: Family conflict
📚 TikTok – CantankerousBae
**Review template is by sienasummerrreads**
Liz was prickly and guarded, but watching her soften and reconnect with her family felt realistic and heartwarming. Jack’s grumpy charm balanced her perfectly, and I loved how their relationship developed from pure loathing into something supportive and tender. The side characters (especially Jack’s mom and Liz’s family) added so much depth, making Lilly Leaf Falls a small town I want to visit.
This is one of those rom-coms that’s both hilarious and heartfelt, with drama, growth, and a romance that hits just right. Perfect for fans of slow-burn angst with a sweet payoff.
If you love:
🔹 Enemies to lovers
🔹 Small town romance
🔹 Banter + slow burn tension
🔹 Strong family dynamics
Physical/Ebook: Ebook
Pages: ~
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫 (4.5/5)
Spice: 🌶️
POV: Dual POV
Series or Standalone: Book 1 interconected standalones
Tropes/Themes: Enemies-to-lovers, grumpy/sunshine, family healing, small town life
Mentions: Secrets, family estrangement, grief/loss (check triggers if sensitive)
⚠️ Triggers: Family conflict
📚 TikTok – CantankerousBae
**Review template is by sienasummerrreads**
June 3, 2024
In Loathe at First Sight by Stephanie Renee Liz comes running home after something happened after which she lost everything. When she meets Jack, who just wants to help her, they immediately don’t like each other: big city girl/princess meets Lumberjack.
From the very first I liked this book a lot. I had to smile a lot and the enemies to lovers trope was definitely there! We all know ho such stories tend to end, but it is such a joy to read these kinds of books. The writing style was great and the dual POV even more so, because this way you get a feeling who the characters are. Both are great and perfect for each other. The banter was a joy to read and they have a wonderful chemistry. There was a mystery concerning them both and that made for reading on to find out what happened. I had a really hard time putting the book down.
If you want to read a really cute enemies to lovers story, a small town romance, with a flowing and easy to read writing style, with great characters, banter and some spice, read this book. I loved it and can’t wait to read more books from this author.
Recommended!
From the very first I liked this book a lot. I had to smile a lot and the enemies to lovers trope was definitely there! We all know ho such stories tend to end, but it is such a joy to read these kinds of books. The writing style was great and the dual POV even more so, because this way you get a feeling who the characters are. Both are great and perfect for each other. The banter was a joy to read and they have a wonderful chemistry. There was a mystery concerning them both and that made for reading on to find out what happened. I had a really hard time putting the book down.
If you want to read a really cute enemies to lovers story, a small town romance, with a flowing and easy to read writing style, with great characters, banter and some spice, read this book. I loved it and can’t wait to read more books from this author.
Recommended!
June 22, 2024
4 stars
This enemies to lovers story was a pure joy to read!
Liz and Jack are polar opposites and have quite a bit of pent up hostility towards one another, but that same pent up negative energy certainly took a turn for the spicy 🌶️
The sass from Liz and the calm/collected retorts from Jack made this novel so much fun to read!
After her business tanks and she is forced to move back to her hometown of Lilly Leaf Falls, Liz has no idea what she is going to do. Being forced to live with her parents, in her thirties, in a town she swore she’d never live in again, has left Liz down in the dumps with only a bad attitude to show for it
Jack has made a home for himself in Lilly Leaf Falls and does everything he can to keep a low profile & help when and where he can. Running an auto repair shop keeps him busy by day, but the nights tend to be long and lonely.
The dynamic between these 2 MC’s is crazy. They really have a strong loathing of each so reading how that loathing turns into spice made this book what it is…
A pure joy to read!
This enemies to lovers story was a pure joy to read!
Liz and Jack are polar opposites and have quite a bit of pent up hostility towards one another, but that same pent up negative energy certainly took a turn for the spicy 🌶️
The sass from Liz and the calm/collected retorts from Jack made this novel so much fun to read!
After her business tanks and she is forced to move back to her hometown of Lilly Leaf Falls, Liz has no idea what she is going to do. Being forced to live with her parents, in her thirties, in a town she swore she’d never live in again, has left Liz down in the dumps with only a bad attitude to show for it
Jack has made a home for himself in Lilly Leaf Falls and does everything he can to keep a low profile & help when and where he can. Running an auto repair shop keeps him busy by day, but the nights tend to be long and lonely.
The dynamic between these 2 MC’s is crazy. They really have a strong loathing of each so reading how that loathing turns into spice made this book what it is…
A pure joy to read!
June 22, 2024
I loved this story. I can totally relate to having to move back in with your parents after making bad life choices and not knowing how to get your life back on track. I loved the dynamics of not only the two main characters Liz and Jack but of Liz and her family. Liz and her mom are so similar they can't help but clash, her dad is her biggest cheerleader, and her brother and sisters are there for her but have their own lives to manage. I can't wait to pop back into this world with the next book in the series. The slow burn of Liz and Jack is pitch perfect as they find out they are more compatible than they think with each new interaction. When they finally get together, there's no waffling or second thoughts. My favorite part of this book may just be when Jack tries to surprise his mother for her birthday with hilarious results. This book had just the right amount of tension, heat, tenderness and humor.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 26, 2024
This slow burn sucked me in, the small town charmed me, and the tension between the two main characters kept me wanting more.
These "enemies" turned lovers both experienced a lot of personal growth during the progression of this book. Liz and Jack both lost the things that they worked so hard for in life but in the end find something that I don't think either one thought was possible. Their meeting was like a small explosive had been set off. Liz with a fiery attitude and Jack with his cool, calm, and collected demeanor.
The banter got progressively hotter between them with each and every run-in, and the sexual tension was palpable.
Even though Jack and Liz had similarities in their reasoning for returning to Lilly Leaf Falls, it seemed Liz had a lot harder of a time being in the cozy small town.
In the end, both parties involved realized a lot about themselves and let go of a lot of hurt from their pasts.
This slow burn was definitely worth the wait with some pretty steamy scenes.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next installment in the series.
4.2 ☆
These "enemies" turned lovers both experienced a lot of personal growth during the progression of this book. Liz and Jack both lost the things that they worked so hard for in life but in the end find something that I don't think either one thought was possible. Their meeting was like a small explosive had been set off. Liz with a fiery attitude and Jack with his cool, calm, and collected demeanor.
The banter got progressively hotter between them with each and every run-in, and the sexual tension was palpable.
Even though Jack and Liz had similarities in their reasoning for returning to Lilly Leaf Falls, it seemed Liz had a lot harder of a time being in the cozy small town.
In the end, both parties involved realized a lot about themselves and let go of a lot of hurt from their pasts.
This slow burn was definitely worth the wait with some pretty steamy scenes.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and can't wait for the next installment in the series.
4.2 ☆
September 8, 2025
A Strong FMC + a Steady MMC = Perfect Balance
I’m hooked on The Lawsons series after Steph gave me the opportunity to be part of the journey with Hot Four Teacher. So of course, I had to go back and start from the beginning—and I’m so glad I did.
This story gave me a softer, more mature twist on enemies-to-lovers. Liz completely won me over—she’s such a strong FMC, independent, and determined to figure out her own path in life. I admired how she handled tough situations with maturity and grace, especially when it came to Jack’s past. She’s also self-aware enough to admit when she’s wrong, which made her feel even more real.
And Jack… wow. He’s incredible in so many ways. Grounded by the lessons his mother taught him, he’s steady, supportive, and never intimidated by Liz’s strength. I loved how he was always there to help without being pushy, respecting Liz’s independence while also proving himself to be her safe place. Together, they’re a perfect match—two equals building something beautiful side by side.
This book set such a strong tone for the series, and I can’t wait to keep reading more about the Lawson family.
I’m hooked on The Lawsons series after Steph gave me the opportunity to be part of the journey with Hot Four Teacher. So of course, I had to go back and start from the beginning—and I’m so glad I did.
This story gave me a softer, more mature twist on enemies-to-lovers. Liz completely won me over—she’s such a strong FMC, independent, and determined to figure out her own path in life. I admired how she handled tough situations with maturity and grace, especially when it came to Jack’s past. She’s also self-aware enough to admit when she’s wrong, which made her feel even more real.
And Jack… wow. He’s incredible in so many ways. Grounded by the lessons his mother taught him, he’s steady, supportive, and never intimidated by Liz’s strength. I loved how he was always there to help without being pushy, respecting Liz’s independence while also proving himself to be her safe place. Together, they’re a perfect match—two equals building something beautiful side by side.
This book set such a strong tone for the series, and I can’t wait to keep reading more about the Lawson family.
June 4, 2024
Loathe at First Sight is the story of Liz and Jacks, a very much enemies to lovers trope. We meet Liz who has made her way back home to Lilly Leaf Falls after her life in LA was ruined. Jack on the other hand, moved to Lilly Leaf falls after his life was turned upside down a couple year ago. What do you get when you have two stubborn people whose first impression of each other are the worst? You get amazing banter through out the book!
I loved Liz and Jacks story, this book really hones on bad first impressions, which they both had of one another. Throughout the book we get to see that their impressions of each other were completely wrong and they allow themselves to accept their feelings for one another.
I really enjoyed this book and only wished it was a tad bit longer to enjoy more of their story. This is book one of the Lawson series, I can’t wait to read the rest.
Thank you Stephanie Renee for providing me this ARC to review.
I loved Liz and Jacks story, this book really hones on bad first impressions, which they both had of one another. Throughout the book we get to see that their impressions of each other were completely wrong and they allow themselves to accept their feelings for one another.
I really enjoyed this book and only wished it was a tad bit longer to enjoy more of their story. This is book one of the Lawson series, I can’t wait to read the rest.
Thank you Stephanie Renee for providing me this ARC to review.
June 29, 2024
This story was cute. Girl finds herself moving home after her life falls apart. Runs into boy (literally, and repeatedly) who moved to town after she left. They hate each other until they love each other, and then (presumably) live happily ever after.
I had a hard time connecting with the characters in this one, which is a me thing and not a writing thing. I struggle with this particular archetype the FMC is. I did feel like a lot of things could have been fleshed out a little more, to give us more insight into the growth of the characters, both individually, and as a couple. It all felt a little rushed to me, barely skimming the surface of everything.
I did like the outlying characters, and the setting. I'd visit Lilly Leaf Falls again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I had a hard time connecting with the characters in this one, which is a me thing and not a writing thing. I struggle with this particular archetype the FMC is. I did feel like a lot of things could have been fleshed out a little more, to give us more insight into the growth of the characters, both individually, and as a couple. It all felt a little rushed to me, barely skimming the surface of everything.
I did like the outlying characters, and the setting. I'd visit Lilly Leaf Falls again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 9, 2024
❤️🔥 Book Review ❤️🔥
|| Loathe at First Sight ||
|| Author: Stephanie Renee ||
Format: BookSprout ebook
Read from: July 7, 2024 to July 8, 2024
2024 RG: 88/100
MCs: Liz and Jack
Liz has recently lost everything and is having to move from LA to small town Oregon to live with her parents again at the age of 33. She hasn’t been back to town in 5 years and these people really know how to hold a grudge. She also keeps running into this super annoying Paul-Bunyan-looking auto mechanic who seems to like everyone in town- but her.
Jack has moved away from his past in Miami to small town Oregon. He has a pretty successful auto mechanic shop and a dog named Ellie. He meets a mystery woman who he thinks is a huge brat. Nothing in the world would make him ever want to be around her.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
“It doesn’t matter how you start out - only where you end up.”
|| Loathe at First Sight ||
|| Author: Stephanie Renee ||
Format: BookSprout ebook
Read from: July 7, 2024 to July 8, 2024
2024 RG: 88/100
MCs: Liz and Jack
Liz has recently lost everything and is having to move from LA to small town Oregon to live with her parents again at the age of 33. She hasn’t been back to town in 5 years and these people really know how to hold a grudge. She also keeps running into this super annoying Paul-Bunyan-looking auto mechanic who seems to like everyone in town- but her.
Jack has moved away from his past in Miami to small town Oregon. He has a pretty successful auto mechanic shop and a dog named Ellie. He meets a mystery woman who he thinks is a huge brat. Nothing in the world would make him ever want to be around her.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
“It doesn’t matter how you start out - only where you end up.”
September 10, 2025
I absolutely loved Liz! even after all she has been through, she's still an actual bada** and Jack.. Well, small town local mechanic with a beard, muscles, AND tattoos. Do I really need to say more?
Liz ends up moving back to her small town after living it up big in LA and absolutely hates it, and to make matters worse, she makes the worst first impression with a few of the locals. Not one to be warm and cuddly, Liz is ready and waiting to verbally spar with Jack, who's not scared to put her in her place and call her out.
I loved how both characters didn't just meet and was instantly friendly after a chapter, we got to see how they slowly started to like eachother even though they fought hard to carry on with the hate
Absolutely love some smut and this certainly didnt disappoint! 10/10 for the bearded man👀👏
Liz ends up moving back to her small town after living it up big in LA and absolutely hates it, and to make matters worse, she makes the worst first impression with a few of the locals. Not one to be warm and cuddly, Liz is ready and waiting to verbally spar with Jack, who's not scared to put her in her place and call her out.
I loved how both characters didn't just meet and was instantly friendly after a chapter, we got to see how they slowly started to like eachother even though they fought hard to carry on with the hate
Absolutely love some smut and this certainly didnt disappoint! 10/10 for the bearded man👀👏
June 4, 2024
I read mostly dark romance but I always enjoy a light hearted romance to break things up.
They both have a similar path that leads them to Lily Leaf Falls. Liz is returning to her family there and is not happy about it at all.
I appreciate that while there was a misunderstanding / miscommunication / break up the author had both Jack and Liz realize it very quickly and own it. I hate books that drag those out just to add drama. Stephanie Renee did it perfectly in having them quickly come to their senses and talk it out.
Another thing I liked was he wasn't an alphahole and she wasn't a damsel in distress. I love a strong MFC. She was down on her luck but she stayed strong and he was her rock.
They both have a similar path that leads them to Lily Leaf Falls. Liz is returning to her family there and is not happy about it at all.
I appreciate that while there was a misunderstanding / miscommunication / break up the author had both Jack and Liz realize it very quickly and own it. I hate books that drag those out just to add drama. Stephanie Renee did it perfectly in having them quickly come to their senses and talk it out.
Another thing I liked was he wasn't an alphahole and she wasn't a damsel in distress. I love a strong MFC. She was down on her luck but she stayed strong and he was her rock.
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