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Seaside Bay #1
Poolside Promises
They dated twice, and it didn’t end well. Will the third time be the charm?
Linda Brees doesn’t take chances. Given the last time she told a man she loved him he moved to Atlanta, the talented printworks artist clings to the safety of a safe job, a steady paycheck, and a largely dateless life. But she panics when six years later she discovers her stay at a Florida condo has her rooming next door to the guy who broke her heart.
Mason Hauser lives as free as the wind. Loving the energy of meeting new people and never staying anywhere more than twelve weeks, the traveling nurse still regrets breaking up with his college sweetie right after she said the L-word. So when they unintentionally reconnect, a flood of old memories has the born wanderer reconsidering life on the move.
Falling for him all over again, Linda fears he’ll never want to settle down. And though Mason has her visit him on his next position in Seattle, he’s convinced she’ll never let go her need for traditional stability.
Will these two soulmates find a place where they can claim their forever?
Poolside Promises is the lighthearted first book in the Seaside Bay sweet-and-clean romance series. If you like relatable characters, humorous dialogue, and all the feels, then you’ll adore Kasey Kennedy’s good vibes.
Linda Brees doesn’t take chances. Given the last time she told a man she loved him he moved to Atlanta, the talented printworks artist clings to the safety of a safe job, a steady paycheck, and a largely dateless life. But she panics when six years later she discovers her stay at a Florida condo has her rooming next door to the guy who broke her heart.
Mason Hauser lives as free as the wind. Loving the energy of meeting new people and never staying anywhere more than twelve weeks, the traveling nurse still regrets breaking up with his college sweetie right after she said the L-word. So when they unintentionally reconnect, a flood of old memories has the born wanderer reconsidering life on the move.
Falling for him all over again, Linda fears he’ll never want to settle down. And though Mason has her visit him on his next position in Seattle, he’s convinced she’ll never let go her need for traditional stability.
Will these two soulmates find a place where they can claim their forever?
Poolside Promises is the lighthearted first book in the Seaside Bay sweet-and-clean romance series. If you like relatable characters, humorous dialogue, and all the feels, then you’ll adore Kasey Kennedy’s good vibes.
231 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 27, 2024
37 people are currently reading
10741 people want to read
About the author
Kasey Kennedy
14 books256 followersKasey Kennedy loves reading books and writing the stories in her head. She has a B.A. in English from Southern Illinois University; is a member of the Chicago Writers Association; Chicago North Romance Writers Association; and a 2021 participant in StoryStudio Chicago’s Novel in a Year program.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
September 16, 2024
Poolside Promises is a sweet second chance romance.
Mason and Linda have been friends since childhood and their families are old friends. After multiple failed starts and stops in the dating arena, they are thrust back together after several years of no contact while staying in their respective family condos in Florida.
I loved this sweet romance. It wasn't spicy but the couples were mature and behaved age appropriate. I read both open and closed door romances and it's often difficult to find closed door romances where the MCs in their 20s or older don't act like they are in middle school, and it's my absolute pet peeve. Kasey Kennedy did a great job getting it right.
I loved the Illinois representation, especially southern IL, a forgotten geography. I also loved that the MMC was a nurse, with a great back story of how he found himself in they profession.
Second chance isn't my favorite but Poolside Promises may have changed me forever. Their failed starts and stops in the past make perfect sense and their reconnection was equally plausible.
Poolside Promises has two superb MCs and everything I love about sweet romance.
Mason and Linda have been friends since childhood and their families are old friends. After multiple failed starts and stops in the dating arena, they are thrust back together after several years of no contact while staying in their respective family condos in Florida.
I loved this sweet romance. It wasn't spicy but the couples were mature and behaved age appropriate. I read both open and closed door romances and it's often difficult to find closed door romances where the MCs in their 20s or older don't act like they are in middle school, and it's my absolute pet peeve. Kasey Kennedy did a great job getting it right.
I loved the Illinois representation, especially southern IL, a forgotten geography. I also loved that the MMC was a nurse, with a great back story of how he found himself in they profession.
Second chance isn't my favorite but Poolside Promises may have changed me forever. Their failed starts and stops in the past make perfect sense and their reconnection was equally plausible.
Poolside Promises has two superb MCs and everything I love about sweet romance.
March 1, 2025
Poolside Promises
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Author: Kasey Kennedy
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from White Eagle Rock Publishing and Kasey Kennedy and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Linda Brees doesn’t take chances. Given the last time she told a man she loved him he moved to Atlanta, the talented printworks artist clings to the safety of a safe job, a steady paycheck, and a largely dateless life. But she panics when six years later she discovers her stay at a Florida condo has her rooming next door to the guy who broke her heart.
Mason Hauser lives as free as the wind. Loving the energy of meeting new people and never staying anywhere more than twelve weeks, the traveling nurse still regrets breaking up with his college sweetie right after she said the L-word. So when they unintentionally reconnect, a flood of old memories has the born wanderer reconsidering life on the move. Falling for him all over again, Linda fears he’ll never want to settle down. And though Mason has her visit him on his next position in Seattle, he’s convinced she’ll never let go her need for traditional stability.
Will these two soulmates find a place where they can claim their forever?
My Thoughts: This is the first book in the Seaside Bay series. Linda does not take chances, not since her childhood love broke her heart. Almost a decade after that fateful evening, she is vacationing at her family’s condo on the beach. Mason has been a traveling nurse, never staying at any location long enough to put down roots, just how he likes it. When he has a break between jobs, he decides to stay at the family vacation condo. They reconnect when they are both at the family’s condo at the same time. Linda needs stability, where Mason is a free spirit. While they were soulmates at one time, will their vastly differed beliefs be able to match up, or are they just passing each other again? This follows the tropes of second chance romance, closed proximity (to a degree), closed door, and childhood friends.
The story is a dual narration by both Linda and Mason, in their respective perspectives. Linda is content with a stable job, craves order in her life, even if her dating life is lackluster. She is creative, and does not let anyone dictate how she life’s her life. Mason is swoon-perfection, he is a traveling nurse and never puts down any roots, just goes job to job and very much a free spirit. Their story started when they were childhood friends, and they have had several starts and stops. It had been 6 years since they last saw each other and immediately you could feel the tension beaming with chemistry overflow. Their reconnection is plausible, from the thrifting, the volunteering, movie nights, and beach dates, it was the picture perfect romance that just warms your heart. The characters were well developed with depth, witty banter (so amazing), chemistry, and intriguing. The author’s writing style was complex, closed door, sweet, heartwarming, and beautifully done.
This was a sweet, heartwarming story of two soulmates reconnecting and crafted into a beautifully happily ever after. Sometimes second chance closed door romances can be reaching, however, Kennedy really did this trope justice. The story behind Mason’s career choice as a nurse was not only heartwarming, but enriching and done well. This is a closed door romances, with only kissing, and you do not miss the spice as the kissing scenes are rather steamy. I highly recommend this story to other readers.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Author: Kasey Kennedy
I requested a digital advanced readers copy from White Eagle Rock Publishing and Kasey Kennedy and providing my opinion voluntarily and unbiased.
Synopsis: Linda Brees doesn’t take chances. Given the last time she told a man she loved him he moved to Atlanta, the talented printworks artist clings to the safety of a safe job, a steady paycheck, and a largely dateless life. But she panics when six years later she discovers her stay at a Florida condo has her rooming next door to the guy who broke her heart.
Mason Hauser lives as free as the wind. Loving the energy of meeting new people and never staying anywhere more than twelve weeks, the traveling nurse still regrets breaking up with his college sweetie right after she said the L-word. So when they unintentionally reconnect, a flood of old memories has the born wanderer reconsidering life on the move. Falling for him all over again, Linda fears he’ll never want to settle down. And though Mason has her visit him on his next position in Seattle, he’s convinced she’ll never let go her need for traditional stability.
Will these two soulmates find a place where they can claim their forever?
My Thoughts: This is the first book in the Seaside Bay series. Linda does not take chances, not since her childhood love broke her heart. Almost a decade after that fateful evening, she is vacationing at her family’s condo on the beach. Mason has been a traveling nurse, never staying at any location long enough to put down roots, just how he likes it. When he has a break between jobs, he decides to stay at the family vacation condo. They reconnect when they are both at the family’s condo at the same time. Linda needs stability, where Mason is a free spirit. While they were soulmates at one time, will their vastly differed beliefs be able to match up, or are they just passing each other again? This follows the tropes of second chance romance, closed proximity (to a degree), closed door, and childhood friends.
The story is a dual narration by both Linda and Mason, in their respective perspectives. Linda is content with a stable job, craves order in her life, even if her dating life is lackluster. She is creative, and does not let anyone dictate how she life’s her life. Mason is swoon-perfection, he is a traveling nurse and never puts down any roots, just goes job to job and very much a free spirit. Their story started when they were childhood friends, and they have had several starts and stops. It had been 6 years since they last saw each other and immediately you could feel the tension beaming with chemistry overflow. Their reconnection is plausible, from the thrifting, the volunteering, movie nights, and beach dates, it was the picture perfect romance that just warms your heart. The characters were well developed with depth, witty banter (so amazing), chemistry, and intriguing. The author’s writing style was complex, closed door, sweet, heartwarming, and beautifully done.
This was a sweet, heartwarming story of two soulmates reconnecting and crafted into a beautifully happily ever after. Sometimes second chance closed door romances can be reaching, however, Kennedy really did this trope justice. The story behind Mason’s career choice as a nurse was not only heartwarming, but enriching and done well. This is a closed door romances, with only kissing, and you do not miss the spice as the kissing scenes are rather steamy. I highly recommend this story to other readers.
August 19, 2024
“𝘐 𝘱𝘶𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘴𝘰 𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘢𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯; 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘺. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐’𝘮 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
If you love dual POVs, third-chance romance, and enemies-to-lovers dynamics with a dash of close proximity, then you're in for a treat with this one. With a traveling nurse MMC and a gun-shy FMC, this story takes you through thrilling car races, thrifting dates, and even selling raffle tickets at a carnival.
𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒 📝
Linda Brees has spent six years avoiding heartbreak, but when Mason Hauser—the man who once shattered her heart—unexpectedly reappears, she’s forced to confront the emotions she thought were long buried.
Mason, a free-spirited traveling nurse who thrives on short-term adventures, must reconsider his nomadic lifestyle when he’s given a second—or rather, third—chance with Linda.
As they navigate their complicated past and an uncertain present, Linda and Mason must face their fears of commitment. Will they be able to bridge the gap between their diverging paths, or are they destined to part ways once more?
𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 💭
I absolutely loved Mason! As a traveling nurse, he’s like a real-life superhero, always putting thought and care into everything he does, especially when it comes to planning unforgettable dates for Linda. He’s completely smitten with her, pink hair and all!
Linda and Mason’s romance is incredibly sweet. From thrifting for matching outfits to creatively selling raffle tickets and enjoying swoony beach dates and old movie nights, their relationship is as picture-perfect as a Pinterest board.
Linda is a true queen! She never lets anyone—not even her sister on her wedding day—dictate her style. Her pink hair stays, and so do her dreams—no compromises, not even for Mason. Linda knows what she wants and won’t let her past or present stop her from going after it!
However, Linda's quick forgiveness of Mason felt a bit too easy, considering his past behavior, especially how he left during a critical moment in their relationship. But with a history of bailing when things get tough, Mason certainly had to bring his A-game to win her back!
The side characters were a delight, especially Meridian with her wisdom, and Linda’s best friend Sorcha, who was an absolute blast. It was a bit strange that Linda never mentioned her long-term relationship with Mason to Sorcha, considering they were supposed to be BFFs after Mason.
*𝑺𝑷𝑶𝑰𝑳𝑬𝑹* Linda showing up with another date at her sister’s wedding, despite knowing Mason would be there & had already asked her to be his date, felt like something straight out of Riverdale—dramatic & obviously intended to get a reaction from Mason. The high school-level drama didn’t work for me.
The ending was sweet and satisfying, rounding off a well-crafted book. Kasey Kennedy did a fantastic job with these characters, making it an absolute pleasure to read!
𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 ✨
3.5/5 stars. I found the book enjoyable and well-crafted but had a few reservations that prevented it from reaching a higher rating.
𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓
🛁 No sex, nudity, or profanity. Sweet kissing and cuddling. ⚠️ References to the death of a parent, sibling rivalry, and heartbreak.
I received a complimentary copy of the book. A positive review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.
If you love dual POVs, third-chance romance, and enemies-to-lovers dynamics with a dash of close proximity, then you're in for a treat with this one. With a traveling nurse MMC and a gun-shy FMC, this story takes you through thrilling car races, thrifting dates, and even selling raffle tickets at a carnival.
𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒 📝
Linda Brees has spent six years avoiding heartbreak, but when Mason Hauser—the man who once shattered her heart—unexpectedly reappears, she’s forced to confront the emotions she thought were long buried.
Mason, a free-spirited traveling nurse who thrives on short-term adventures, must reconsider his nomadic lifestyle when he’s given a second—or rather, third—chance with Linda.
As they navigate their complicated past and an uncertain present, Linda and Mason must face their fears of commitment. Will they be able to bridge the gap between their diverging paths, or are they destined to part ways once more?
𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 💭
I absolutely loved Mason! As a traveling nurse, he’s like a real-life superhero, always putting thought and care into everything he does, especially when it comes to planning unforgettable dates for Linda. He’s completely smitten with her, pink hair and all!
Linda and Mason’s romance is incredibly sweet. From thrifting for matching outfits to creatively selling raffle tickets and enjoying swoony beach dates and old movie nights, their relationship is as picture-perfect as a Pinterest board.
Linda is a true queen! She never lets anyone—not even her sister on her wedding day—dictate her style. Her pink hair stays, and so do her dreams—no compromises, not even for Mason. Linda knows what she wants and won’t let her past or present stop her from going after it!
However, Linda's quick forgiveness of Mason felt a bit too easy, considering his past behavior, especially how he left during a critical moment in their relationship. But with a history of bailing when things get tough, Mason certainly had to bring his A-game to win her back!
The side characters were a delight, especially Meridian with her wisdom, and Linda’s best friend Sorcha, who was an absolute blast. It was a bit strange that Linda never mentioned her long-term relationship with Mason to Sorcha, considering they were supposed to be BFFs after Mason.
*𝑺𝑷𝑶𝑰𝑳𝑬𝑹* Linda showing up with another date at her sister’s wedding, despite knowing Mason would be there & had already asked her to be his date, felt like something straight out of Riverdale—dramatic & obviously intended to get a reaction from Mason. The high school-level drama didn’t work for me.
The ending was sweet and satisfying, rounding off a well-crafted book. Kasey Kennedy did a fantastic job with these characters, making it an absolute pleasure to read!
𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆 ✨
3.5/5 stars. I found the book enjoyable and well-crafted but had a few reservations that prevented it from reaching a higher rating.
𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓
🛁 No sex, nudity, or profanity. Sweet kissing and cuddling. ⚠️ References to the death of a parent, sibling rivalry, and heartbreak.
I received a complimentary copy of the book. A positive review was not required. All opinions expressed are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
What a sweet and adorable read this one was! Linda and Mason have a magnetic history together having grown up together at their families vacation condos, and they've even tried to date a few times and it just never worked out. The last time they saw one another was 6 years ago when Linda told Mason she loved him and he moved on to the next city for his career as a nurse. It was devastating for Linda and she's nervous about seeing him again.
This is a story about a second chance at love for these two as they spend two weeks together rekindling their friendship and attraction for one another. Both characters are so sweet and Mason is a huge cinnamon roll type of guy. He loves to be sweet and is always there for Linda. Even with their background, he's always thinking of her first and trying to get their friendship back with the hopes of winning her heart again.
It's a quick read that is filled with happy moments and no angst, you can enjoy every chapter of their interactions and just feel happy for them. Also a clean romance where the only thing that happens on page is a little kissing. Great for an end-of-summer beach read!
This is a story about a second chance at love for these two as they spend two weeks together rekindling their friendship and attraction for one another. Both characters are so sweet and Mason is a huge cinnamon roll type of guy. He loves to be sweet and is always there for Linda. Even with their background, he's always thinking of her first and trying to get their friendship back with the hopes of winning her heart again.
It's a quick read that is filled with happy moments and no angst, you can enjoy every chapter of their interactions and just feel happy for them. Also a clean romance where the only thing that happens on page is a little kissing. Great for an end-of-summer beach read!
July 27, 2025
Sweet romance
"Poolside Promises" by Kasey Kennedy is a sweet romantic story about second chances. It follows the classic Hollywood trope where the main character is under pressure to find a date for an upcoming family wedding. The character either encounters someone new or, in this case, an ex. Initially, their interactions are awkward, but they eventually rekindle their lost love. The plot is predictable, so I wouldn't worry about spoilers—especially since the title gives it away.
As someone from Seattle, I was hoping for more references to local places and a mention of their trip there.
The writing itself was good. I particularly liked the line, “Life is not about avoiding the pain; it’s about searching for the joy.” However, it still took me several days to finish the book. I prefer books that I can't put down! It’s 3.8/5 for me.
"Poolside Promises" by Kasey Kennedy is a sweet romantic story about second chances. It follows the classic Hollywood trope where the main character is under pressure to find a date for an upcoming family wedding. The character either encounters someone new or, in this case, an ex. Initially, their interactions are awkward, but they eventually rekindle their lost love. The plot is predictable, so I wouldn't worry about spoilers—especially since the title gives it away.
As someone from Seattle, I was hoping for more references to local places and a mention of their trip there.
The writing itself was good. I particularly liked the line, “Life is not about avoiding the pain; it’s about searching for the joy.” However, it still took me several days to finish the book. I prefer books that I can't put down! It’s 3.8/5 for me.
August 16, 2024
This was such a sweet read! I'm always up for a good second chance romance... but I think this might be the first third chance I can recall reading. Linda and Mason had been family friends since they were children. They casually dated as teenagers then went their separate ways, only to come back together more seriously in college. But when she told him she loved him, he went away and broke her heart. Needless to say, she was not thrilled to discover he would be staying next door to her... but the time together forces them to rekindle their friendship, let go of past hurts and perhaps let third time be the charm. These two had a really easy chemistry between them that I very much enjoyed. I think their long history helped with that and I loved seeing how they'd grown from their past. It was definitely one that kept me wondering exactly how it was all going to play out, but I loved how it all came together in the end. While overall, their story felt very light, it did touch on his grief over his mom, which added a great tenderness to their story too. This was actually the first book I'd read from Kasey Kennedy, but it certainly won't be the last. I can't wait to see Sorcha get her HEA too!
Poolside Promises is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Poolside Promises is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
August 22, 2024
This is a cute story about Linda and Mason who were childhood friends. They tried a romance in high school and then again in college but Mason left abruptly after the death of his mother. They reconnected at their families condos at the beach. I loved the banter, how real they were and the reconnection of their romance. The HEA was perfect!
August 9, 2024
This was a really sweet, quick read and I appreciated the summer vibes. Linda and Mason reconnect in Florida after being separated by distance and work, and I liked the dilemma of what-to-do-when-romance-meets-real-life-decisions: ‘It was hard not to feel nostalgic and miss the days of their youth, before things got complicated with jobs, travel and broken hearts.’ Love that quote.
The book's structure was unusual because at the point where the vacation ended, I really didn't know where things were going to go next. But Linda's dream came to the fore and I LOVED how Mason showed up for her with a grand gesture (Sorry trying not to spoil. But SWOON alert!)
Great read - recommend to take this by the pool :)
The book's structure was unusual because at the point where the vacation ended, I really didn't know where things were going to go next. But Linda's dream came to the fore and I LOVED how Mason showed up for her with a grand gesture (Sorry trying not to spoil. But SWOON alert!)
Great read - recommend to take this by the pool :)
August 31, 2024
This was an easy read with summer vibes. I thoroughly enjoyed Mason and Linda spending time together and reconnecting. I can appreciate the flush of feelings resurfacing and feeling of “I can love again,” but not having them instantly in love and dating. It was a nice realistic touch. I found it kind of odd that Linda hadn’t told Sorcha about Mason, though…considering they are best friends. I felt like, at the very least, Linda would’ve kept it as simple as they had dated and not given all the details of heartbreak.
I felt the ending was a little rushed, but it was sweet and rounded off their reconnection!
Notes: I can’t wait for Sorcha’s story!
Tropes: dual pov, third chance romance, friends to lovers, close proximity, HEA, summer beach romance, college sweethearts.
I felt the ending was a little rushed, but it was sweet and rounded off their reconnection!
Notes: I can’t wait for Sorcha’s story!
Tropes: dual pov, third chance romance, friends to lovers, close proximity, HEA, summer beach romance, college sweethearts.
August 31, 2024
2.8 ⭐️
Estuvo entretenido, me gustó que su tercera oportunidad se diera de manera natural.
Estuvo entretenido, me gustó que su tercera oportunidad se diera de manera natural.
August 20, 2024
This was a sweet second (well third) romance and I love how they took the time to slowly get to know each other again and spend time with each other and weren’t just instantly in love and dating again. I do wish the ending where they do finally get together didn’t feel sort of rushed but it all worked out nicely
August 12, 2024
Cute & easy. I loved the summer vibes & the pull back to what is comforting & familiar & safe. I wish I could’ve read it on a beach in Florida!
Thank you to Kasey for my copy in exchange for a review!
Thank you to Kasey for my copy in exchange for a review!
August 27, 2024
📚🎉•Book Release Date: August 27, 2024•🎉📚
••ARC Review: 4 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Life is not about avoiding the pain, it’s about searching for the joy. And that’s what I have when I’m with
you.”
Linda Brees simply doesn’t take chances. Given the last time she told a man she loved him he moved to Atlanta, the talented printworks artist clings to the safety of a safe job, a steady paycheck, and a largely dateless life. But she panics when six years later she discovers her stay at a Florida condo has her rooming next door to the guy who in fact broke her heart. Falling for him all over again, Linda fears he’ll never want to settle down. And though Mason has her visit him on his next position in Seattle, he’s convinced she’ll never let go her need for traditional stability…
“There is a reason to chase your dreams! Don’t settle for doing something you like to do. Find something
you’re passionate about!”
Poolside Promises is a lighthearted first book in the Seaside Bay sweet-and-clean romance series. If you like relatable characters, third-chance romance, humorous dialogue, and all the feels, then you’ll simply enjoy the vibes of this story! I liked the conflict of “what-to-do-when-romance-meets-real-life-decisions.” This story was a little unusual because at one point, the time for vacationing is over, I wasn’t quite sure where things would go next. It almost seemed like things had come to a standstill but, I enjoyed how things came together in the end for both Linda and Mason and their sweet romance! I found this to be an enjoyable story with such original and relatable flawed characters! While this story is more lighthearted, there is also such tenderness to this story as well!🙌🏻📚
“Never stop chasing your dreams.”
•Content: References to the death of a parent, sibling rivalry, grief, heartbreak, and some alcohol/drinking.
“Never give up on love.”
#poolsidepromises
#kaseykennedyauthor
#alightheartedtenderstory
#allsboutthebestreads
~I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
••ARC Review: 4 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Life is not about avoiding the pain, it’s about searching for the joy. And that’s what I have when I’m with
you.”
Linda Brees simply doesn’t take chances. Given the last time she told a man she loved him he moved to Atlanta, the talented printworks artist clings to the safety of a safe job, a steady paycheck, and a largely dateless life. But she panics when six years later she discovers her stay at a Florida condo has her rooming next door to the guy who in fact broke her heart. Falling for him all over again, Linda fears he’ll never want to settle down. And though Mason has her visit him on his next position in Seattle, he’s convinced she’ll never let go her need for traditional stability…
“There is a reason to chase your dreams! Don’t settle for doing something you like to do. Find something
you’re passionate about!”
Poolside Promises is a lighthearted first book in the Seaside Bay sweet-and-clean romance series. If you like relatable characters, third-chance romance, humorous dialogue, and all the feels, then you’ll simply enjoy the vibes of this story! I liked the conflict of “what-to-do-when-romance-meets-real-life-decisions.” This story was a little unusual because at one point, the time for vacationing is over, I wasn’t quite sure where things would go next. It almost seemed like things had come to a standstill but, I enjoyed how things came together in the end for both Linda and Mason and their sweet romance! I found this to be an enjoyable story with such original and relatable flawed characters! While this story is more lighthearted, there is also such tenderness to this story as well!🙌🏻📚
“Never stop chasing your dreams.”
•Content: References to the death of a parent, sibling rivalry, grief, heartbreak, and some alcohol/drinking.
“Never give up on love.”
#poolsidepromises
#kaseykennedyauthor
#alightheartedtenderstory
#allsboutthebestreads
~I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
January 17, 2025
Plot: Linda and Mason have been coming to Seaside Bay since they were little kids. Since their parents are good friends, having neighboring condos on the beach wasn’t unheard of. After becoming the best of friends, they tried dating. TWICE. In the last ten-ish years, they were friends, then dating, then friends, then dating, and then enemies (ish)? When a coincidental planned trip from both of them land them both in Seaside Bay for a few weeks, how will they handle seeing one another after their breakup over 6 years ago? Will Linda get closure? Will Mason explain why he left so abruptly? Will they find their happily ever after?
What I liked: I liked that the characters were friends for a long time. I like when a history between characters occurs, because it feels more natural and real.
What I didn’t like: I didn’t like that both Linda and Mason’s sisters felt like they had a right to tell them whether or not to date. Multiple times throughout their entire friendship. Also, Laurel kinda really sucks. She’s the world’s worst sister. I cannot.
Swearing: none
Physical intimacy level: closed door, no spice
Star rating: 3 stars
Trope: second chance romance, vacation romance, friends to lovers, enemies to lovers (kinda)
What I liked: I liked that the characters were friends for a long time. I like when a history between characters occurs, because it feels more natural and real.
What I didn’t like: I didn’t like that both Linda and Mason’s sisters felt like they had a right to tell them whether or not to date. Multiple times throughout their entire friendship. Also, Laurel kinda really sucks. She’s the world’s worst sister. I cannot.
Swearing: none
Physical intimacy level: closed door, no spice
Star rating: 3 stars
Trope: second chance romance, vacation romance, friends to lovers, enemies to lovers (kinda)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2024
Second chance romance is my favorite trope. Third chance is even sweeter.
Linda Brees had her heart broken, and she has never fully recovered. Her three week vacation bliss is shattered when she realizes the man who broke her heart is staying right next door at his family's Florida condo.
Mason Hauser is a traveling nurse. He never stays anywhere longer than twelve weeks. He has a wandering spirit and has no real ties. He never meant to hurt Linda, but he knows he needs to apologize. He just needs to figure out how.
As these two reconnect, they realize the chemistry is definitely still there. It was a sweet romance with emotions that were all over the place. The characters were very likeable. Both of them needed to let down some walls and free themselves. The romance between the characters felt genuine. After all they had known each other since childhood. It is the perfect end of the summer read.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Linda Brees had her heart broken, and she has never fully recovered. Her three week vacation bliss is shattered when she realizes the man who broke her heart is staying right next door at his family's Florida condo.
Mason Hauser is a traveling nurse. He never stays anywhere longer than twelve weeks. He has a wandering spirit and has no real ties. He never meant to hurt Linda, but he knows he needs to apologize. He just needs to figure out how.
As these two reconnect, they realize the chemistry is definitely still there. It was a sweet romance with emotions that were all over the place. The characters were very likeable. Both of them needed to let down some walls and free themselves. The romance between the characters felt genuine. After all they had known each other since childhood. It is the perfect end of the summer read.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 27, 2024
ARC Book Review
Poolside Promises
A Novel Written By Kasey Kennedy
Fiction - Romance
Published August 27, 2024
233 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the first book in a new series for this author. I enjoyed the books in her first series, The In Bloom Series. This book was everything I expected and more from this author’s writing.
Poolside Promises is a clean romance. The two main characters, Linda and Mason, are childhood friends who had a relationship when they were in college. Their romance ended six years ago with Linda’s heart broken, and Mason starting a career as a traveling nurse. Six years later they meet again while vacationing in the Florida Gulf Coast. Is there a chance for another try at romance?
I liked that the two main characters are older and career minded. I also liked that neither let their earlier breakup interfere with their friendship.
“You make me happy. Being with you makes me happy. And most importantly, making you happy makes me happy. I can work anywhere. What I can’t do is be happy without you.”
Poolside Promises
A Novel Written By Kasey Kennedy
Fiction - Romance
Published August 27, 2024
233 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the first book in a new series for this author. I enjoyed the books in her first series, The In Bloom Series. This book was everything I expected and more from this author’s writing.
Poolside Promises is a clean romance. The two main characters, Linda and Mason, are childhood friends who had a relationship when they were in college. Their romance ended six years ago with Linda’s heart broken, and Mason starting a career as a traveling nurse. Six years later they meet again while vacationing in the Florida Gulf Coast. Is there a chance for another try at romance?
I liked that the two main characters are older and career minded. I also liked that neither let their earlier breakup interfere with their friendship.
“You make me happy. Being with you makes me happy. And most importantly, making you happy makes me happy. I can work anywhere. What I can’t do is be happy without you.”
September 7, 2024
📖Book Review📖
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Linda and Mason are childhood friends who casually dated as teens, then more seriously in college, when Mason leaves, breaking her heart. So Linda’s not happy when her next door neighbor for the summer turns out to be Mason. But the time together might rekindle old friendships, letting go of the past, and starting anew.
This was such a sweet, summer read. It was a great book to close the summer. Linda and Mason really complement each other as characters and I loved how they rekindled their friendship first and the romance took a back seat for a bit. I loved seeing Mason’s pov and how he has always tried to be there for Linda.
The ending felt a bit rushed but I loved how it all came together for them. It’s a quick read, with lots of happy, low angst moments. I did like how the author dealt with Mason’s grieve over his mom’s death. This was my first book by Kasey Kennedy but definitely not the last.
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Linda and Mason are childhood friends who casually dated as teens, then more seriously in college, when Mason leaves, breaking her heart. So Linda’s not happy when her next door neighbor for the summer turns out to be Mason. But the time together might rekindle old friendships, letting go of the past, and starting anew.
This was such a sweet, summer read. It was a great book to close the summer. Linda and Mason really complement each other as characters and I loved how they rekindled their friendship first and the romance took a back seat for a bit. I loved seeing Mason’s pov and how he has always tried to be there for Linda.
The ending felt a bit rushed but I loved how it all came together for them. It’s a quick read, with lots of happy, low angst moments. I did like how the author dealt with Mason’s grieve over his mom’s death. This was my first book by Kasey Kennedy but definitely not the last.
August 27, 2024
4⭐️
This was a very sweet romance with no spice. It was a fun and easy read which was perfect for summer.
Linda and mason have known each other since childhood. Linda goes on a vacation with her best friend to relax but it turns out that fate has other plans and Mason, the man who broke her heart is staying next door in his family condo.
This is a THIRD chance romance between two childhood friend’s. The saying ‘right person, wrong time’?? That is exactly what it is. They slowly start to reconnect and soon figure out that the chemistry is still there between them. They both just needed to lower a few walls down between them.
I want to know whether Sorcha finds her match!
Tropes:
🏖️ Friends to Lovers
🏖️ Beach romance
🏖️ Third chances
🏖️ Slow burn
🏖️ Closed door romance
This was a very sweet romance with no spice. It was a fun and easy read which was perfect for summer.
Linda and mason have known each other since childhood. Linda goes on a vacation with her best friend to relax but it turns out that fate has other plans and Mason, the man who broke her heart is staying next door in his family condo.
This is a THIRD chance romance between two childhood friend’s. The saying ‘right person, wrong time’?? That is exactly what it is. They slowly start to reconnect and soon figure out that the chemistry is still there between them. They both just needed to lower a few walls down between them.
I want to know whether Sorcha finds her match!
Tropes:
🏖️ Friends to Lovers
🏖️ Beach romance
🏖️ Third chances
🏖️ Slow burn
🏖️ Closed door romance
September 11, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I first met Linda when I read Dahlias for Dominica, and I fell in love with her as a side character. I was so excited when I learned that she gets her own story in Poolside Promises. Linda continues to be her spunky unapologetic self. When she takes a much needed vacation, she runs into Mason, her old boyfriend who left her in the dust years ago. They reconnect and get a second chance at the romance the could have had years ago.
Here are a few things I loved:
- Vacation vibes
- Service
- Starting a business
- Mason supporting Linda's dream
The romance is completely clean, with just a few kisses described. I loved this one! Thank you to the author for the advance copy. A review was not required.
I first met Linda when I read Dahlias for Dominica, and I fell in love with her as a side character. I was so excited when I learned that she gets her own story in Poolside Promises. Linda continues to be her spunky unapologetic self. When she takes a much needed vacation, she runs into Mason, her old boyfriend who left her in the dust years ago. They reconnect and get a second chance at the romance the could have had years ago.
Here are a few things I loved:
- Vacation vibes
- Service
- Starting a business
- Mason supporting Linda's dream
The romance is completely clean, with just a few kisses described. I loved this one! Thank you to the author for the advance copy. A review was not required.
May 23, 2025
It was a nice second (or third) chances story, but somehow, I didn't feel their connections as much as I wanted to. Can't say precisely why, but I didn't feel them coming back together at the same time. Although they both seemed to realize they were falling back in love (or rekindling a love they'd never lost), it just didn't jump out at me. One step forward, then a step back, the other takes a step forward, then withdraws. His decision to finally take a chance was poignant, based on a dead patient's story. I liked it, just didn't feel the romance enough.
January 9, 2025
Oui, oui, charcuterie!
Aside from the well-done romance story well-covered in the other reviews, I'd like to mention that the book is also full of interesting gems related to cooking, art, business, crafts, culture, geography, and...you name it. And a page-turner as well. As a fellow writer but in the realm of nonfiction, I was not really sure what to expect when I first got this book, in a genre I normally wouldn't read, but came away a big fan of the author. Well done!
Aside from the well-done romance story well-covered in the other reviews, I'd like to mention that the book is also full of interesting gems related to cooking, art, business, crafts, culture, geography, and...you name it. And a page-turner as well. As a fellow writer but in the realm of nonfiction, I was not really sure what to expect when I first got this book, in a genre I normally wouldn't read, but came away a big fan of the author. Well done!
September 25, 2024
Real rating is 4.5 stars!
I simply adored Linda and Mason’s story! These two had such a great connection but their shared past and all the hurts along the way were palpable between them.
This book kept me interested and flipping the pages as fast as I could read them!
I’m so excited for the next book in this series!
I simply adored Linda and Mason’s story! These two had such a great connection but their shared past and all the hurts along the way were palpable between them.
This book kept me interested and flipping the pages as fast as I could read them!
I’m so excited for the next book in this series!
September 29, 2024
Another fun read
Romances are a fairly rare guilty pleasure for me. Between the classics and science fiction / fantasy that i normally read, a romance is a great change of pace. I always love the hometown feel of Kaseys work. Reading them is like an enjoyable long weekend on their own. Do yourself a favor and escape to Florida with this one
Romances are a fairly rare guilty pleasure for me. Between the classics and science fiction / fantasy that i normally read, a romance is a great change of pace. I always love the hometown feel of Kaseys work. Reading them is like an enjoyable long weekend on their own. Do yourself a favor and escape to Florida with this one
June 24, 2024
I just got finished reading a beta copy of this book.
I enjoyed it, even though I don't usually like romances.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity for me to review it.
I sent her a more detailed review.
I enjoyed it, even though I don't usually like romances.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity for me to review it.
I sent her a more detailed review.
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September 8, 2024A sweet and quick beach read with second chance romance (or third time’s a charm) of two best friends since childhood with a HEA.
September 10, 2024
never easy
Linda and Mason are perfect for each other if it weren´t for their completely different lifestyles and finding a compromise between being a wanderer and needing roots surely isn´t easy.
Linda and Mason are perfect for each other if it weren´t for their completely different lifestyles and finding a compromise between being a wanderer and needing roots surely isn´t easy.
September 16, 2024
such a fun book!
You will so enjoy reading this book! Following Mason and Lindy make everything come true! It was really so enjoyable!
You will so enjoy reading this book! Following Mason and Lindy make everything come true! It was really so enjoyable!
September 21, 2024
I'm sorry but it's a no from me. . .
▬ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: second chance
▬ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: second chance
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October 19, 2024[dnf @ 6%] not my cup of tea...
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