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Lake I Love You
What do horny stray mutts, ex-boyfriends and a dead grandmother all have in common?
When it comes to love, they all have Lizzie—aspiring romance novelist—beat.
Lizzie has a terrible habit of losing things—the people she loves, jobs, even hope. After a humiliating run-in involving soaked tampons and a handsome, cocky stranger, she begins to wonder if she’s also lost control over her life.
That is, before the reading of her grandmother’s will lands her not only an unexpected inheritance, but also the keys to her family’s long-forgotten lake cabin up north in Dearing Creek. It’s her chance for a desperately needed fresh start, in the small town that changed her life more than a decade ago. But it’ll take everything in her to keep her focus on writing, and off the sexy contractor she’s hired to make this cabin her home—every day, she only seems to fall harder.
James grew up with soul-crushing loss, the kind that leaves scars. When a messy scandal in his small town sets the gears in motion to start his own remodeling business, it’s the opportunity he’s been waiting for. The fact that his first client is both the formerly awkward girl next door and the gorgeous woman he crashed into a few weeks prior is the plot twist he never saw coming. Nor can he stop his attraction to her from tearing down the walls surrounding his heart.
When a long-buried secret threatens to destroy everything they’ve built, the two must choose whether to face their past demons and current fears together… or say goodbye to their chance at a happily-ever-after.
Lake I Love You, the first book in the Dearing Creek series, is a slow-burn, low-steam, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers small town romantic comedy filled with witty banter, quirky/relatable moments, and heartwarming relationships between the main characters, family, & ride-or-die friends. But make sure to have a box of tissues handy for its gut-wrenching moments.
The perfect, angsty summer love read!
When it comes to love, they all have Lizzie—aspiring romance novelist—beat.
Lizzie has a terrible habit of losing things—the people she loves, jobs, even hope. After a humiliating run-in involving soaked tampons and a handsome, cocky stranger, she begins to wonder if she’s also lost control over her life.
That is, before the reading of her grandmother’s will lands her not only an unexpected inheritance, but also the keys to her family’s long-forgotten lake cabin up north in Dearing Creek. It’s her chance for a desperately needed fresh start, in the small town that changed her life more than a decade ago. But it’ll take everything in her to keep her focus on writing, and off the sexy contractor she’s hired to make this cabin her home—every day, she only seems to fall harder.
James grew up with soul-crushing loss, the kind that leaves scars. When a messy scandal in his small town sets the gears in motion to start his own remodeling business, it’s the opportunity he’s been waiting for. The fact that his first client is both the formerly awkward girl next door and the gorgeous woman he crashed into a few weeks prior is the plot twist he never saw coming. Nor can he stop his attraction to her from tearing down the walls surrounding his heart.
When a long-buried secret threatens to destroy everything they’ve built, the two must choose whether to face their past demons and current fears together… or say goodbye to their chance at a happily-ever-after.
Lake I Love You, the first book in the Dearing Creek series, is a slow-burn, low-steam, enemies-to-friends-to-lovers small town romantic comedy filled with witty banter, quirky/relatable moments, and heartwarming relationships between the main characters, family, & ride-or-die friends. But make sure to have a box of tissues handy for its gut-wrenching moments.
The perfect, angsty summer love read!
558 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2024
18 people are currently reading
182 people want to read
About the author
Farrah Jane
9 books15 followersFarrah Jane is a Midwest-born-and-bred author of smart & steamy small town romance, filled with swoon-worthy, complex heroes and the sassy, relatable heroines who capture their hearts – while feeling like your new best friend. She migrated from small town life to the Twin Cities, Minnesota, where she currently resides on the outskirts of city life in her forever home with her husband, son, daughter & two rescue pups.
Farrah totally owns being a nerdy introvert (who still loves most people). When she’s not writing or reading ALL the books (especially romance!), you’ll find her whipping up yet another pan of killer brownies, traveling, movie marathon-ing, listening to juicy podcasts, spending time with her favorite people, or relaxing in nature.
Fun fact - she'll rarely turn down tacos or pizza when offered (especially if accompanied by an Old Fashioned, or a good glass of Malbec).
Farrah totally owns being a nerdy introvert (who still loves most people). When she’s not writing or reading ALL the books (especially romance!), you’ll find her whipping up yet another pan of killer brownies, traveling, movie marathon-ing, listening to juicy podcasts, spending time with her favorite people, or relaxing in nature.
Fun fact - she'll rarely turn down tacos or pizza when offered (especially if accompanied by an Old Fashioned, or a good glass of Malbec).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
July 28, 2024
Lizzie is still unmoored from the loss of her mother and her beloved grandmother in a very short period of time. Compounding her malaise is her much older boyfriend, an academic who’s been gaslighting her literary aspirations. In addition, she’s been underperforming and uninspired at her dull day job, and she’s constantly at risk of being fired. She longs for a simpler life away from the city fueled by her memories of summers spent at her family’s lake home.
At the outset of the book she’s running late for work, and hustling out the door with her incorrect specialty coffee drink (decaf, no bueno). As she pushes the door open to exit the coffee shop, the glass door is flung back at her, giving her forehead a goose egg, spilling hot decaf all over her blouse, and upending a fresh box of tampons onto the nasty coffee-soaked concrete.
James is navigating the sidewalk with a stack of his buddy’s moving boxes when a cafe door opening knocks the boxes out of his hands and lacerates his brow. Irritated, he shoves the door closed with more force than necessary. Scolding the attractive young woman with whom he collided, he moves along without acknowledging any responsibility on his part.
Weeks later, they cross paths again and Lizzie hires James to remodel the lake home she’s just learned is her inheritance.
As they spend time together, along with their colorful friend group, they develop feelings. Both having been burned, they’re reluctant to allow it to turn into anything meaningful.
Fate, of course, has other plans.
I loved that Lizzie wasn’t the most put together female lead. It’s always fun to read about a relatable hot mess who’s well intentioned. No one likes a too perfect protagonist. James has some baggage but he’s a good match for Lizzie. The only criticism I have - more a preference than a criticism - is that there’s less steam than I would have liked.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and booksirens, and I’m sharing my honest opinion.
At the outset of the book she’s running late for work, and hustling out the door with her incorrect specialty coffee drink (decaf, no bueno). As she pushes the door open to exit the coffee shop, the glass door is flung back at her, giving her forehead a goose egg, spilling hot decaf all over her blouse, and upending a fresh box of tampons onto the nasty coffee-soaked concrete.
James is navigating the sidewalk with a stack of his buddy’s moving boxes when a cafe door opening knocks the boxes out of his hands and lacerates his brow. Irritated, he shoves the door closed with more force than necessary. Scolding the attractive young woman with whom he collided, he moves along without acknowledging any responsibility on his part.
Weeks later, they cross paths again and Lizzie hires James to remodel the lake home she’s just learned is her inheritance.
As they spend time together, along with their colorful friend group, they develop feelings. Both having been burned, they’re reluctant to allow it to turn into anything meaningful.
Fate, of course, has other plans.
I loved that Lizzie wasn’t the most put together female lead. It’s always fun to read about a relatable hot mess who’s well intentioned. No one likes a too perfect protagonist. James has some baggage but he’s a good match for Lizzie. The only criticism I have - more a preference than a criticism - is that there’s less steam than I would have liked.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and booksirens, and I’m sharing my honest opinion.
July 17, 2024
This book was the epitome of cute swoon worthy romance 🥰
I love everything about small town romances and Dearing Creek is a place I wish I could move to in a heartbeat, especially if I found myself my very own James Tate😍😍
Lizzie, bless her heart, she was so damn relatable. She was written perfectly, I wish she was real so I could be friends with her. Can we just talk about the dearie girls, they are friendship goals! They absolutely adore each other and always knowing what the other needed, I loved them.
Lizzie and James, what can I say? They had the best meet cute and started off somewhat as enemies with a solid dose of attraction for each other, until they went off their separate ways for a couple of weeks. They then both meet each other again in Dearing Creek, the place for fresh starts and more importantly…love ❤️
This book was filled with friendships, love, laughter, found family and a few tears. I highly recommend this book if you’re looking to escape reality, the dearie girls will welcome you with open arms 🩷
✨ I received this book in exchange for an honest review ✨
I love everything about small town romances and Dearing Creek is a place I wish I could move to in a heartbeat, especially if I found myself my very own James Tate😍😍
Lizzie, bless her heart, she was so damn relatable. She was written perfectly, I wish she was real so I could be friends with her. Can we just talk about the dearie girls, they are friendship goals! They absolutely adore each other and always knowing what the other needed, I loved them.
Lizzie and James, what can I say? They had the best meet cute and started off somewhat as enemies with a solid dose of attraction for each other, until they went off their separate ways for a couple of weeks. They then both meet each other again in Dearing Creek, the place for fresh starts and more importantly…love ❤️
This book was filled with friendships, love, laughter, found family and a few tears. I highly recommend this book if you’re looking to escape reality, the dearie girls will welcome you with open arms 🩷
✨ I received this book in exchange for an honest review ✨
July 15, 2024
I received an ARC of this book, having never read anything by this author previously, and I am SO glad that I did.
I am a huge sucker for cheesy romance novels that make me laugh, make me cry, and have a great storyline.
I finished this book in one day. It was THAT good.
This book had it all, swoon worthy moments, a heartfelt storyline, laugh out loud banter, found family, a cute cabin by the lake, and family secrets unravelling.
I hope there will be more stories to come from Dearing Creek because I would love to read more about the other characters we met and immerse myself back into this world a while longer.
I am a huge sucker for cheesy romance novels that make me laugh, make me cry, and have a great storyline.
I finished this book in one day. It was THAT good.
This book had it all, swoon worthy moments, a heartfelt storyline, laugh out loud banter, found family, a cute cabin by the lake, and family secrets unravelling.
I hope there will be more stories to come from Dearing Creek because I would love to read more about the other characters we met and immerse myself back into this world a while longer.
August 11, 2025
Lizzie is used to losing things—jobs, loved ones, and hope. After an embarrassing encounter with a handsome stranger, she feels her life spiralling. But her grandmother's will grants her an unexpected inheritance: a forgotten lake cabin in Dearing Creek. This small town, which changed her life a decade ago, offers a fresh start. Lizzie plans to focus on writing but finds herself falling for James, the attractive contractor she’s hired.
James, scarred by past losses, starts his remodelling business amidst a small-town scandal. His first client is Lizzie, the awkward girl from next door and the woman he recently met in an embarrassing situation. Their mutual attraction grows, challenging his guarded heart.
As a long-buried secret surfaces, Lizzie and James must choose to face their pasts together or risk losing their chance at happiness.
A really sweet book, easy to follow. At some points, I felt like I was reading someone's diary or listening to gossip. It really helped that the book is dual POV. Lizzie and James have a really fun start. In a way (emphasis), it's enemies to friends to lovers, though I'm not sure how to define it anymore, also grumpy x sunshine.
I liked how Lizzie's family relationships were explained, and James' story is touching as well. The book is well-developed, with both main characters showing significant growth and development throughout the plot. James' chapters were easier for me to follow, but Lizzie's chapters were often very funny.
The story constantly refers to Lizzie's grandmother, touching on the past a lot, and both characters have people around them who care deeply, with everyone being closely connected in the small town.
The book is quite slow-paced, but there's something that keeps you reading on. I recommend reading this book. It's simple, interesting, sweet, and perfect for summer. You'll definitely enjoy the small town, big life changes, relationships and friendships. It will surely make you laugh.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to BookSirenrs, to the author, Farrah Jane, for providing me with this e-copy.
James, scarred by past losses, starts his remodelling business amidst a small-town scandal. His first client is Lizzie, the awkward girl from next door and the woman he recently met in an embarrassing situation. Their mutual attraction grows, challenging his guarded heart.
As a long-buried secret surfaces, Lizzie and James must choose to face their pasts together or risk losing their chance at happiness.
A really sweet book, easy to follow. At some points, I felt like I was reading someone's diary or listening to gossip. It really helped that the book is dual POV. Lizzie and James have a really fun start. In a way (emphasis), it's enemies to friends to lovers, though I'm not sure how to define it anymore, also grumpy x sunshine.
I liked how Lizzie's family relationships were explained, and James' story is touching as well. The book is well-developed, with both main characters showing significant growth and development throughout the plot. James' chapters were easier for me to follow, but Lizzie's chapters were often very funny.
The story constantly refers to Lizzie's grandmother, touching on the past a lot, and both characters have people around them who care deeply, with everyone being closely connected in the small town.
The book is quite slow-paced, but there's something that keeps you reading on. I recommend reading this book. It's simple, interesting, sweet, and perfect for summer. You'll definitely enjoy the small town, big life changes, relationships and friendships. It will surely make you laugh.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to BookSirenrs, to the author, Farrah Jane, for providing me with this e-copy.
August 24, 2024
Tropes:
Close proximity
Two POV
Small Town Romance
Forced Marriage
Enemies to Lovers?
Slow Burn
Small town romance of two people who one day bumped into each other outside a coffee shop and sparks begin to fly. A little meet cute if you will.
James and Lizzy both came from tough childhoods and dealt with a lot of grief along the way. Both built walls as high as the sky around their hearts thanks to their past trauma.
Lizzie inherited the family cabin and hired James to renovate it from top to bottom so she could escape the city and start a fresh new life on the lake where she had all her favorite childhood memories. What she didn’t expect when hiring him, was how quickly the wall around her heart would come tumbling down. Would they both be able to heal from their past in order to let love in, or would the whole thing fall apart?!
The characters were well developed and I loved the fact that it followed friendships from teenage years well into their 30s. All in all it was a cute romance story. Not very much spice at all which is good with me, but if you like spice, this is not the book for you.
Close proximity
Two POV
Small Town Romance
Forced Marriage
Enemies to Lovers?
Slow Burn
Small town romance of two people who one day bumped into each other outside a coffee shop and sparks begin to fly. A little meet cute if you will.
James and Lizzy both came from tough childhoods and dealt with a lot of grief along the way. Both built walls as high as the sky around their hearts thanks to their past trauma.
Lizzie inherited the family cabin and hired James to renovate it from top to bottom so she could escape the city and start a fresh new life on the lake where she had all her favorite childhood memories. What she didn’t expect when hiring him, was how quickly the wall around her heart would come tumbling down. Would they both be able to heal from their past in order to let love in, or would the whole thing fall apart?!
The characters were well developed and I loved the fact that it followed friendships from teenage years well into their 30s. All in all it was a cute romance story. Not very much spice at all which is good with me, but if you like spice, this is not the book for you.
August 9, 2024
This book was so good. I enjoyed it so much. This is a slow burn romance that has twists that you don't expect. This is a mix of both the main characters' relationships and then also talks about her grandmother's love life. After reading this book, I hope that there will be more to this story. I'd love to see how the story continues for all the characters involved. I truly enjoyed everything about this book. If you are looking for a slow burn romance with amazing characters and family secrets, this is the book for you. #lakeiloveyou #farrahjane #slowburnromance #bookstagrammer @theauthor.agency @authorfarrahjane
July 29, 2024
I really liked the idea of this story, and while I also liked the plot twists I just felt like the book way longer than it needed to be. There was so much information presented to the reader and it just felt like too much at times.
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Thank you to the author for sending me an early eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
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Thank you to the author for sending me an early eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
July 27, 2024
I really enjoyed the story of Lizzie and James. It is a HEA romance, but it doesn't follow the typical recipe. We are provided a little bit of Lizzie's background to understand how she fits in to Dearing Creek, and how she met her 'Dearie Girls' which are so relevant to her storyline. It isn't until you read through the book to learn how James fits in to Dearing Creek and why things are so tough for him. I think that this story was realistic around how love can hit hard, but be very messy, especially with all the underlying emotions we all have. I believe the author did an amazing job at portraying anxiety, stress, loss, guilt and all the other things that we deal with every day. I was drawn in to Lizzie & James' story, and loved the development of all the other characters in the story, and how they support this pair, and yet all have their own lives and stories. I hope that we get to see more peeks into the rest of these characters in future novels!
August 9, 2024
Thank you Farrah Jane and Booksirens for this eArc.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is a charming small-town romance. It follows Lizzie, the FMC, who has just lost her job and moved to her grandmother’s cabin in the small town of Dearing Creek after an unexpected inheritance. The MMC, James, is a contractor hired by Lizzie to work on her new home. Both characters come from childhoods that have caused them a lot of grief.
This book includes:
* Dual POV
* Found family
* A heartfelt storyline
* Small town/cabin-by-the-lake romance
* Close proximity
I really enjoyed watching how these two characters worked through their secrets and grief, and how they brought down the walls around their hearts. I also liked how all the characters in the book contributed to the storyline and the plot twist. It’s a sweet romance book that ends with a HEA.
I can’t wait to read more about the other characters in the book!
August 12, 2024
I don't even know where to start. Let me start with.... I absolutely LOVED the book. Farrah wrote everything in a very captivating way I couldn't put the book down.
When I started reading the book, it made me tear up right away, I was able to relate to the MFC so much, and I fell in love with the book right then and there.
The roller-coaster of emotions throughout the book made you feel as if you could feel every single feeling the characters were feeling. Whether it was happy, sad, excited, down, or even making you feel like a young kid who has fallen in love for the first time. It all felt so real.
Oh my gosh, and the group of friends! So freaking adorable! I was so in love with them!
I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series. Farrah did such an amazing job with this book.
When I started reading the book, it made me tear up right away, I was able to relate to the MFC so much, and I fell in love with the book right then and there.
The roller-coaster of emotions throughout the book made you feel as if you could feel every single feeling the characters were feeling. Whether it was happy, sad, excited, down, or even making you feel like a young kid who has fallen in love for the first time. It all felt so real.
Oh my gosh, and the group of friends! So freaking adorable! I was so in love with them!
I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series. Farrah did such an amazing job with this book.
August 29, 2024
Ugh so freaking cute. Obsessed. I really really loved how their relationship grew over time and they started out as friends. It wasn’t lusty, it wasn’t fake or only physical.. they really got to know each other first. That’s believable to me and I love it. I loved that she named her dog Buckey, and that her and James’ grandmothers were besties. I’m all for a small-town romance where lakes and childhood memories are involved. I also really love when the mmc isn’t afraid to fall first and fall hard.
Also can we talk about the bookshelf he made for her??? SWOOOOOOON.
And M.H.???? Called it. I totally called it. So many bombs dropped in one moment it was utter chaos but I’m glad it was wrapped up in the end and everyone was able to move forward.
***I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.***
Also can we talk about the bookshelf he made for her??? SWOOOOOOON.
And M.H.???? Called it. I totally called it. So many bombs dropped in one moment it was utter chaos but I’m glad it was wrapped up in the end and everyone was able to move forward.
***I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.***
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2024
This small town, slow burn contemporary rom-com was certainly a treat to read, just full of the “I love”s for me:
-Not one but two comical and sweet meet-cutes
-The Minnesota setting and references (Juicy Lucys…yum!)
-Lizzie and Jame’s character and relationship development.
-The meddling grandma character of
Gigi
-The addition of the text trails between Lizzie’s dear friends (accurately dubbed the Dearie Girls) that provided hilarious moments and unmatched emotional support (I just admired their friendship throughout the book.)
-Lizzie has a twin brother!
-Recognizes that is is okay to refocus to find restoration and heal yourself
-The cover is swoon worthy
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for the eARC
4.25 stars!
-Not one but two comical and sweet meet-cutes
-The Minnesota setting and references (Juicy Lucys…yum!)
-Lizzie and Jame’s character and relationship development.
-The meddling grandma character of
Gigi
-The addition of the text trails between Lizzie’s dear friends (accurately dubbed the Dearie Girls) that provided hilarious moments and unmatched emotional support (I just admired their friendship throughout the book.)
-Lizzie has a twin brother!
-Recognizes that is is okay to refocus to find restoration and heal yourself
-The cover is swoon worthy
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for the eARC
4.25 stars!
August 8, 2024
Romance reads that take place on the lake always make for the perfect summer reads. Lake I Love You is a gem of a book and the start of what I predict will be a fabulous series! Lizzie is such a relatable FMC. She is in a point of major transition in her life and getting to experience her journey through it was a joy. James has some demons he’s been dealing with and Lizzie coming into his life is just what he needs. The Dearie Girls are a dream girl gang that I’d love to be a part of and I can’t wait to get more stories from Dearing Creek.
After a series of personal losses, Lizzie gets a fresh start in Dearing Creek with an inherited cabin, where she must confront her past and her feelings for a handsome contractor as they both face secrets that could jeopardize their future together.
Read if you vibe with
🌊 Lake/Cabin Romance
🏡 Small Town
💞 Enemies to Friends to Lovers
🛶 Forced Proximity
🚺 Girl Gang
🔥 Slow Burn
🫶🏻 Found Family
💘 Hopeless Romantic FMC
💔 Damaged MMC
After a series of personal losses, Lizzie gets a fresh start in Dearing Creek with an inherited cabin, where she must confront her past and her feelings for a handsome contractor as they both face secrets that could jeopardize their future together.
Read if you vibe with
🌊 Lake/Cabin Romance
🏡 Small Town
💞 Enemies to Friends to Lovers
🛶 Forced Proximity
🚺 Girl Gang
🔥 Slow Burn
🫶🏻 Found Family
💘 Hopeless Romantic FMC
💔 Damaged MMC
July 23, 2024
This is a cute small-town romance with relatable characters. The main characters are imperfect, they are struggling, and they are they are meant for each other. How they met was memorable and funny and how they took that meeting and turned it to friendship first was important for both characters. They had both been unlucky in love, in their careers, and were both wanting to make big changes in their lives, but first they had to let go of the anger and sadness from their past to embrace a better future.
What I liked most: the spunky grandmothers that they both had growing up, the coincidence of meeting and then getting to know each other, the struggle of embarking on a new career, and most of all not waiting for everything to be perfect to make your move whether it be to relocate, change jobs, or let love in your life.
If you enjoy small town with some family drama your in for a treat. This book is best read sitting by a lake with in a comfy chair and your fur baby.
What I liked most: the spunky grandmothers that they both had growing up, the coincidence of meeting and then getting to know each other, the struggle of embarking on a new career, and most of all not waiting for everything to be perfect to make your move whether it be to relocate, change jobs, or let love in your life.
If you enjoy small town with some family drama your in for a treat. This book is best read sitting by a lake with in a comfy chair and your fur baby.
August 5, 2024
Imagine you lose your father, grandmother, mother, boyfriend, job then suddenly you become a billionaire well this is Elizabeth's story right here. Moving back to the small town where she spend her childhood, where she re-meets the man, who she had a weird encounter with; and it all comes along from there.
Personally it was hard to go through the first 15 chapters of this book, it felt so emotionally packed for a romcom, but every problem was quickly solved and not blown into proportions.
A big development for our two main characters, during every single event that happened (which were A LOT), plus there was lots of informations thrown at the readers which felt overwhelming at first.
Loved a meddling and playful grandma mixed with the dearie girls (a group of best friends since teenage years with cringy text messages between them).
The ending was perfect but it was kind of hard going through the book, I was considering not finishing it but I decided against it.
Disclaimer: I received this book an ARC and I'm stating my honest opinion
Personally it was hard to go through the first 15 chapters of this book, it felt so emotionally packed for a romcom, but every problem was quickly solved and not blown into proportions.
A big development for our two main characters, during every single event that happened (which were A LOT), plus there was lots of informations thrown at the readers which felt overwhelming at first.
Loved a meddling and playful grandma mixed with the dearie girls (a group of best friends since teenage years with cringy text messages between them).
The ending was perfect but it was kind of hard going through the book, I was considering not finishing it but I decided against it.
Disclaimer: I received this book an ARC and I'm stating my honest opinion
July 20, 2024
This was such a heartwarming book. Packing with such emotion and such relatable characters, it was hard not to get sucked in.
This story follows Lizzie and James. Both have had a pretty rough time in their lives and are pretty much their own worst enemy. Its dual POV where you get to watch these characters grow from their trauma, struggles, anxieties, and self destruction.
This book was so endearing because I could feel what the characters felt. Every piece of self doubt to every ounce of love. It was a beautiful story of growth and love and I was addicted. I knew from the first chapter that this book was going to be amazing and I was right.
It wasn't overdramatized to where the problems were over the top and unnecessary and I really loved that. It also wasn't overcomplicated either. I truly enjoyed watching how love for yourself and others; be it friendship, family, or a significant can really make a difference in your life.
The side characters were the icing on the cake. I fell for each of them too. The Dearie girls, J3, Gigi, Ethan....I could literally go on and on.
Great read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story follows Lizzie and James. Both have had a pretty rough time in their lives and are pretty much their own worst enemy. Its dual POV where you get to watch these characters grow from their trauma, struggles, anxieties, and self destruction.
This book was so endearing because I could feel what the characters felt. Every piece of self doubt to every ounce of love. It was a beautiful story of growth and love and I was addicted. I knew from the first chapter that this book was going to be amazing and I was right.
It wasn't overdramatized to where the problems were over the top and unnecessary and I really loved that. It also wasn't overcomplicated either. I truly enjoyed watching how love for yourself and others; be it friendship, family, or a significant can really make a difference in your life.
The side characters were the icing on the cake. I fell for each of them too. The Dearie girls, J3, Gigi, Ethan....I could literally go on and on.
Great read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 30, 2024
Liz just lost her grandmother and her job. She inherits the family lake house where she spent all her summers. All of her bff's live in the small lake town and also went to the high school. Lizzie's grandmother nick them "my dearies" and that is what they were know as. Lizzie always returned home for school season.
James has always lived in the town and is apprenticing as a carpenter. He was known, along with his best buddies as the three J's. The third J is moving back to the lake town to take a risk and open his dream business. This encourages James to take the plunge and go into the carpentry business for himself.
Two separate circles of friends where not everyone know everyone else. The two worlds crash together, literally, at least for Lizzie and James. The lake house is next door to her grandmothers best friend and offers to get Lizzie in touch with someone who can bring the house back to life. Lizzie has decided to jump head first in writing her first book that has been in slow progress for years. She wants to finish it.
Families can be complicated and hold secrets. Small towns hold their secrets. Will Lizzie and her new life thrive? This book is filled with friends and families are going thru major life changes. Will they be successful? Will Lizzie get published? Will the ripples in the lake from that life changing crash between James and Lizzie settle out? This is a gripping enjoyable book and Ms. Jane has woven together many characters with their own story and I did not loose track.
James has always lived in the town and is apprenticing as a carpenter. He was known, along with his best buddies as the three J's. The third J is moving back to the lake town to take a risk and open his dream business. This encourages James to take the plunge and go into the carpentry business for himself.
Two separate circles of friends where not everyone know everyone else. The two worlds crash together, literally, at least for Lizzie and James. The lake house is next door to her grandmothers best friend and offers to get Lizzie in touch with someone who can bring the house back to life. Lizzie has decided to jump head first in writing her first book that has been in slow progress for years. She wants to finish it.
Families can be complicated and hold secrets. Small towns hold their secrets. Will Lizzie and her new life thrive? This book is filled with friends and families are going thru major life changes. Will they be successful? Will Lizzie get published? Will the ripples in the lake from that life changing crash between James and Lizzie settle out? This is a gripping enjoyable book and Ms. Jane has woven together many characters with their own story and I did not loose track.
August 4, 2024
I just finished this book, and now I sit here with a goofy grin on my face. I love the characters, the complexity of them a group of friends who are still awkward pre teenagers who have happened to grow up. I can relate to this book, to the characters to Lizzie, Brooke, Indi, Kait and the rest. Having had the privilege of growing up on a lake just like Lake Elska the Dearie Girls reminded me of my own childhood. Thanks for bringing back the memories of an early morning paddle and the call of a loon.
Farrah had me laughing out loud and groaning with frustration as the reader watching the story unwind and cheering when the douche canoe of the female predator and male slime ball. No spoilers so no names! But sheesh!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I’m so lucky to have been given the opportunity to read this ARC and I am looking forward to reading more about the Dearie Girls and the folks of Lake Elska! I really hope there will be more!!!
Farrah had me laughing out loud and groaning with frustration as the reader watching the story unwind and cheering when the douche canoe of the female predator and male slime ball. No spoilers so no names! But sheesh!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I’m so lucky to have been given the opportunity to read this ARC and I am looking forward to reading more about the Dearie Girls and the folks of Lake Elska! I really hope there will be more!!!
July 31, 2024
**ARC Review**
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 0.5🌶
Farrah Jane makes me want to buy a lakefront cabin, that requires a little TLC from the hot local contractor, and adopt a stray dog named Boner! This is a sweet, small town, slowburn story that will have you scrambling for the next Farrah Jane novel.
Elizabeth “Lizzie” is an aspiring writer dreaming of her own love story, while James, Dearing Creek’s local contractor, has built up walls to keep love from getting too close. While spending time together these two learn that by being brave, opening up and letting their guard down they can find the most important thing of all… each other.
Lizzie and James are extremely relatable as they battle grief, loss, fear and betrayal while still finding hope, and later love, in the end.
However, I have to say the best relationship in this story is that of the ‘Dearing Girls’. The most dynamic, yet supportive, group of friends that anyone could dream of. I hope as the Dearing Creek series continues we see all the members of the Dearing Girls find their own HEA!
Lake, I Love You is guaranteed to make you laugh, sigh, yearn and maybe even cry.
If you enjoy a sweet, heartwarming, slowburn story that’s low spice this one's for you!
**This book was received as a free Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review**
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 0.5🌶
Farrah Jane makes me want to buy a lakefront cabin, that requires a little TLC from the hot local contractor, and adopt a stray dog named Boner! This is a sweet, small town, slowburn story that will have you scrambling for the next Farrah Jane novel.
Elizabeth “Lizzie” is an aspiring writer dreaming of her own love story, while James, Dearing Creek’s local contractor, has built up walls to keep love from getting too close. While spending time together these two learn that by being brave, opening up and letting their guard down they can find the most important thing of all… each other.
Lizzie and James are extremely relatable as they battle grief, loss, fear and betrayal while still finding hope, and later love, in the end.
However, I have to say the best relationship in this story is that of the ‘Dearing Girls’. The most dynamic, yet supportive, group of friends that anyone could dream of. I hope as the Dearing Creek series continues we see all the members of the Dearing Girls find their own HEA!
Lake, I Love You is guaranteed to make you laugh, sigh, yearn and maybe even cry.
If you enjoy a sweet, heartwarming, slowburn story that’s low spice this one's for you!
**This book was received as a free Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review**
August 5, 2024
The story of James and Lizzie is a great small town, enemies to friends to lovers romance. Lizzie lost her grandmother, her boyfriend and her job. When she found out that she inherited the family summer cabin from her grandmother she decided to start anew. Lizzie grew up in Dearing Creek and has best friends there too that are known as the dearies. James grew up in Dearing Creek also and he has friends there also. Lizzie wants to renovate the cabin and James is a carpenter so she hires him. This isn’t an insta love but it develops over time. The story is a swoon worthy, funny story that has great side characters. I enjoyed reading this book from start to finish and can’t wait for more.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Book Sirens.
Superb Dearing Creek romance!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Book Sirens.
Superb Dearing Creek romance!
July 23, 2024
***ARC Read***
What can I say this book was amazing!!! Lizzie and James ugh so swoon worthy! Their story is so relatable, their chemistry is so real. The friend groups are also amazing and makes you feel like you are a part of their fun.
This book sucked me in right from the beginning with the prologue. You feel drawn to Lizzie right off the rip. The way the author brings you into the story makes you feel a deep connection to Lizzie. I cried after reading the prologue because it was so real and so relatable, because I lost my nana who was my role model as well. Once I had that connection I was hooked!
This small town romance is perfect for those who love an amazing small town, romance, comedy and some slice of life reading this is perfect! I can't say enough good things about this book!
What can I say this book was amazing!!! Lizzie and James ugh so swoon worthy! Their story is so relatable, their chemistry is so real. The friend groups are also amazing and makes you feel like you are a part of their fun.
This book sucked me in right from the beginning with the prologue. You feel drawn to Lizzie right off the rip. The way the author brings you into the story makes you feel a deep connection to Lizzie. I cried after reading the prologue because it was so real and so relatable, because I lost my nana who was my role model as well. Once I had that connection I was hooked!
This small town romance is perfect for those who love an amazing small town, romance, comedy and some slice of life reading this is perfect! I can't say enough good things about this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2024
As much as I wanted to LOVE this book, there was a few parts in the book that made me want to put it down. After finishing this book, the love between Lizzie & James was beautiful and I loved the found family trope of this book! If you are looking for a book to read while sitting on a deck over looking a lake, this book is for you! I loved how the characters were able to find themselves and really get to understand their own emotions and experiences.
“And if it was a decision between figuring out life solo or navigating the messiness of it all together, there was no question. I never wanted to be without him, because… I loved him. “
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
“And if it was a decision between figuring out life solo or navigating the messiness of it all together, there was no question. I never wanted to be without him, because… I loved him. “
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
August 2, 2024
I grew up watching Lifetime movies with my mom and grandma. While my normal genre to read is fantasy or a mix of fantasy and others, those Lifetime movie books always hold a soft spot for me. This was such a cute book. The author made it clear that love wins and overcomes everything, however she did it in a way that proves it isn’t always easy and you have to put in the hard work. Thoroughly enjoyed this book. There was some dates that didn’t always make sense in the story but honestly didn’t ruin the story either. Just a game of math. I saw some of the plot twists happening yet was still blindsided by others. Which I thought was great. A light hearted funny romance, while not always realistic still worked really well.
July 22, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
I feel like I was just in enveloped in a huge cozy, feel good blanket. The story, the writing and the story of love was thoroughly enjoyed. Lizzie was my girl and I loved that I could live vicariously through her. James wasn’t too bad himself too.
I hope there will be more in the Dearing Creek series (I will definitely be keeping my out for whose story comes next).
I feel like I was just in enveloped in a huge cozy, feel good blanket. The story, the writing and the story of love was thoroughly enjoyed. Lizzie was my girl and I loved that I could live vicariously through her. James wasn’t too bad himself too.
I hope there will be more in the Dearing Creek series (I will definitely be keeping my out for whose story comes next).
July 20, 2024
It was such a beautifully swoon, worthy, slow, burn love story. I can honestly say that I enjoyed every part of this book and I wanted more. I loved the characters and even hated some of the characters but even the characters that I hated.I love the way they were written. Anyone who loves small town Romances With a hint of mystery, this is definitely the book for you.
July 30, 2024
I’m not sure if I’m the only one but the writing in this story reminded me of Lauren Asher’s (I’ve only read the Dreamland Billionaire series by her). Hopefully that’s taken as a compliment because it was very much meant as one!
Lizzie and James were such a great couple, I enjoyed their story a lot and what led to their relationship. Watching the friendship develop into more. Plus the friendship between the Three J’s and the Deary girls was the heart of the story.
But I didn’t love everyone being forgiven for crappy behavior because of something in the past. Peoples past is used in books to explain and excuse people’s behavior and I just don’t vibe that with.
There was also maybe too many twists and some shitty behavior that i personally wouldn’t forgive but that’s just me.
Overall it was an enjoyable read and I’m honored to have gotten an arc of this book!
Lizzie and James were such a great couple, I enjoyed their story a lot and what led to their relationship. Watching the friendship develop into more. Plus the friendship between the Three J’s and the Deary girls was the heart of the story.
But I didn’t love everyone being forgiven for crappy behavior because of something in the past. Peoples past is used in books to explain and excuse people’s behavior and I just don’t vibe that with.
There was also maybe too many twists and some shitty behavior that i personally wouldn’t forgive but that’s just me.
Overall it was an enjoyable read and I’m honored to have gotten an arc of this book!
July 27, 2024
This story has great potential. The character development and story building is very detailed. Too detailed. There is such thing as too much of a good thing. Yes, you need the character’s backstories, but not every single detail has to be explicitly spelled out for the reader. Inner dialogue is also crucial to a story, but again, we don’t need Every. Single. Thought that goes through a character’s head.
Plot twists? Love them, but again there are too many shoved into this book. Pick one and run with it. Too many and it’s just disjointed. This book could have been cut by at least a third and would have been a massive improvement. There’s just too much competing with each other in this book to make it enjoyable to me.
Plot twists? Love them, but again there are too many shoved into this book. Pick one and run with it. Too many and it’s just disjointed. This book could have been cut by at least a third and would have been a massive improvement. There’s just too much competing with each other in this book to make it enjoyable to me.
September 2, 2024
Luck was not on Lizzie’s side. It was one thing after another since losing both her mom and grandmother within days of each other. An unfortunate run-in with a very hot man, an equally hot cup of coffee, and a door, Lizzie’s life seems to be unraveling before her eyes. As she moves back to her beloved family’s lakeside cabin, she is looking for direction. It seems like the only stroke of luck that came her way was the very handsome and familiar contractor who would be starting to renovate the home she loved.
This was a great read. I loved so many things about this book—the setting, the found family, the wit, the relatable and undeniably funny characters, and the focus on building a strong and trusting relationship between the MCs. The writing style offered a lot of insight into both Lizzie's and James’s minds so that I could truly understand and empathize with their situations and budding love story. Lizzie was so relatable with her struggles of finding her path that I just wanted to hug her along with all of her girlfriends.
Speaking of the Dearie Girls - I felt like I was a part of the group or at least desperately wanted to join in on their group chats! James was honest and kind, even when he was being an ass in how he reacted sometimes - he still knew that he was being an ass and apologized.
It was low on the spice level, which is not usually what I am into reading. BUT it did not detract from the story! I think it just fits the characters and their story. They dealt with a lot during the whole plot, and I think to make this a spicy book would have been over the top. That doesn’t mean that the sexual tension or chemistry was lacking - because it was there in just other ways.
Thank you to Farrah Jane and The Author Agency for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
This was a great read. I loved so many things about this book—the setting, the found family, the wit, the relatable and undeniably funny characters, and the focus on building a strong and trusting relationship between the MCs. The writing style offered a lot of insight into both Lizzie's and James’s minds so that I could truly understand and empathize with their situations and budding love story. Lizzie was so relatable with her struggles of finding her path that I just wanted to hug her along with all of her girlfriends.
Speaking of the Dearie Girls - I felt like I was a part of the group or at least desperately wanted to join in on their group chats! James was honest and kind, even when he was being an ass in how he reacted sometimes - he still knew that he was being an ass and apologized.
It was low on the spice level, which is not usually what I am into reading. BUT it did not detract from the story! I think it just fits the characters and their story. They dealt with a lot during the whole plot, and I think to make this a spicy book would have been over the top. That doesn’t mean that the sexual tension or chemistry was lacking - because it was there in just other ways.
Thank you to Farrah Jane and The Author Agency for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
June 29, 2025
i absolutely love a small town romance, mix that in with the other tropes and i knew this book was going to be a hit. it had everything i want in a romcom. i laughed, teared up and loved every moment. this book had it all, there was swoony moments with a heartfelt plot, witty chemistry between the characters and overall a found family which made my heart feel full. let’s be honest who doesn’t love a cute cabin by the lake with family secrets unravelling.
james and lizzie were perfect for each other, both having terrible pasts and are hesitant about letting people in. their experiences help them to both understand each other and this is perfect as it allows them to develop into this beautiful couple. i also liked the added story with their grandmothers and how it added twists to the plot. james’ past is heartbreaking and lizzie’s is just as sad, seeing them be brave together was really lovely.
i hope we get more stories from dearing creek, i would love to read about the other characters we met and stay in this world a little longer. i loved the writing, farrah really did an amazing job as you can truly picture the small cabin town. i’m so thankful i got to read this arc, i adored every moment of it.
james and lizzie were perfect for each other, both having terrible pasts and are hesitant about letting people in. their experiences help them to both understand each other and this is perfect as it allows them to develop into this beautiful couple. i also liked the added story with their grandmothers and how it added twists to the plot. james’ past is heartbreaking and lizzie’s is just as sad, seeing them be brave together was really lovely.
i hope we get more stories from dearing creek, i would love to read about the other characters we met and stay in this world a little longer. i loved the writing, farrah really did an amazing job as you can truly picture the small cabin town. i’m so thankful i got to read this arc, i adored every moment of it.
December 19, 2024
I've been trying to think what to compare this book to and I keep leaning toward your favorite Hallmark movie with a touch of spice, or Virgin River, or Sweet Magnolias. If you love those shows then you're going to absolutely adore this book. It'll quickly drag you into the depths of its pages. There's family drama, romance, tight groups of friends, family scandals, and a bit of mystery involved. Definitely a must read for any romance fan!
I received an advanced review copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an advanced review copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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