Never Kiss Your Billionaire Best Friend

Love in Cedar Creek #3

by Kinley Raine

There’s no way I can date Magnus, my billionaire best friend.
Would you want your married name to be Zoe Chloe Snowy?

Magnus left for boarding school in seventh grade.
Too introverted for the spotlight that comes with wealth.

My last memories are protecting him from bullies.

Now his parents are retiring.
Their billionaire dollar company is in his hands.

He refuses to let the family legacy be sold.
Which means my best friend is back in town.

I never expected him to return so… transformed.

Magnus is the same shy, sweet guy I remember.
But those bulging muscles? We’ve never met.

There’s flirty banter and undeniable tension.
Even my tingles have tingles at his touch.

Could my oldest friend really be the one for me?

Then the media catches us together, and a frenzy erupts.
Fake posts online threaten to tear us apart.

Our lives are on pause from the spotlight.
Just when I think there’s hope for the future…

A fairy tale ending seems out of my reach.

234 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 31, 2024

Reviews

[Chia · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Never Kiss Your Billionaire Best Friend", the third book in "Love In Cedar Creek"'s series, Kinley Raine crafts a compelling and heartfelt romance that balances humor, emotional depth, and personal growth. The story revolves around Zoe and Magnus, whose journey from childhood friends to romantic partners is both touching and entertaining.

The novel opens with Zoe grappling with her feelings of being left behind as her friends embark on new life stages. Her childhood friend Magnus returns to Cedar Creek, bringing a mix of nostalgia and unresolved feelings. Kinley skillfully portrays their evolving relationship, blending humor and warmth with a poignant exploration of their past and present.

Magnus's character is especially well-developed. His selfless actions and deep-seated love for Zoe shine through as he makes significant life changes to be with her. The scenes where Magnus reveals his decision to sell his company and focus on a more meaningful life with Zoe are particularly moving. His commitment to creating a better future for them both, including his plans for Sunrise Haven, showcases his growth and dedication.

The novel's highlight is their emotional reunion. Magnus's thoughtful gesture of delivering multiple bouquets of roses, his heartfelt apologies, and his determination to make things right create a powerful, romantic moment. The portrayal of their deep connection, including their playful interactions and intimate moments, is both authentic and engaging.

The author also captures the joy and chaos of family life beautifully. The scenes set in their new home, especially with the pregnancies and the anticipation of their daughter, Hazel Rose Snowy, add a delightful touch of realism and warmth. Magnus's comedic panic during labor, contrasted with the calm of their friends, provides a humorous and endearing snapshot of their life together.

"Never Kiss Your Billionaire Best Friend" is a captivating read that delves into the complexities of love, friendship, and personal growth. Kinley Raine's skillful storytelling, coupled with the relatable and charming characters, makes this book a memorable addition to the romance genre. It's a story of love's endurance and the joy of finding your way back to someone who has always been meant for you.
--
I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily reviewing.

[Lindsey Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 🌶️

I wasn’t prepared for how much this book had me smiling and laughing! But I read it at a time I needed to laugh, so I am grateful.

The third book in Kinley’s Love in Cedar Creek series, one can say she saved the best for last….so far! There are loveable side characters in this story that I hope to see standalone stories for one day.

Magnus and Zoe were childhood best friends, but then Magnus left to pursue other things. Of course, neither of them realized their friendship had feelings bubbling under the surface for one of them, but they never had to confront those. That is until Magnus returns to take over his family business and Zoe sees the glow up he’s had. Her scrawny, childhood, best friend is now all muscle, great smile, and chiseled jaw. And just like that, feelings come flooding in. Or back in someone’s case.

As they rekindle their friendship, it is obvious there is more than surface level, but how do you cross the line from friends to more without compromising the friendship? Is the possibility of something deeper worth possibly losing their friendship if it doesn’t work out?

Kinley has always written books that are well paced, fun to read, bring the reader into the story, and keep plot lines consistent. You get swoon worthy characters, smiles, and always left feeling good after finishing her stories.

As always review trigger warnings before reading.

Tropes:
😍Best Friends to Lovers
😍Billionaire MMC
😍Coming Home
😍Fun Banter
😍Glow Up

[Rebekah Gerstenberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book! It was cheesy, full of banter, insta love/friends to lovers (which I typically do not reach for but was worth it in this instance), kept a good pace, and the characters were great. The friendship that Magnus and Zoe have is sweet and fun which you get to see unfold and change throughout the story. My one problem with Zoe was it took so long to acknowledge her emotions for the 'magnificent Magnus metamorphosis' (which I get is the point but sometimes it's too much for me lol). This book had me giggling and swooning at multiple different points. Not just in their relationship either, I loved his parents' relationship! The scene talking about surfing was great. I enjoyed not only the main characters, but the side characters were fun too! The twins always kept you on your toes on what was going to be said or done. The writing was done well, I liked the occasional breaking of the fourth wall to explain certain parts of the story. Overall, a good pace and fun story!

Thank you, Kinley, for an ARC in exchange for an honest review! This was my first time reading a book you have written, and I don't plan on it being my last!

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really cute best friends to love story. Lots of funny moments. It was a lot of fun to read. I really enjoyed it. The romance was sweet and the friendship between the main characters was sweet and adorable. The main characters were excellent, and there were also great secondary characters. Zoe’s brothers, in particular, were very entertaining. I’d love to see the twins each get their own love stories. Secretly in love with his childhood best friend Zoe, Magnus finally returned to his childhood hometown when he reluctantly assumed leadership of his parents company. Magnus wanted more than friendship but couldn’t bring himself to make a move. As they spent more time together Zoe started to wonder if there could be more to their relationship. Helped along by meddling friends and family, and by certain unexpected events, of course. This book is the third in a series, but it can be read as a standalone with no difficulty. This is the first book I’ve read from this author, and I will definitely be reading more. This is a closed door romance with mild innuendo and no harsh language.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Terry T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is a sweet small town, best friend to lover, opposites attract romance with no cliffhanger.
Some of the lines I really like ----- I’m choosing to remain single by choice to lead a fulfilling life rich in personal and professional accomplishments. ----- my knight in shining armor is MIA. ----- ‘Hey, Kallie. Do you a map? Because I just got lost in your smile. It was game over for her.” ----- I know what makes a good leader is hiring the best team and letting them do their jobs. ----- there is nothing you can’t get better at if you’re willing to put in the time to practice. ----- “Lead with confidence and authenticity. Trust your vision, empower your team, and enjoy the journey—this is your time to shape the future." -----------
What is Mia up to? What is Emma up to? These and other questions will all be answered.
I loved Zoe and Magnus's story and I'm sure you will too. I can't wait to read her next book.

[Krystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maybe the best one yet!

This is book 3 in the Love in Cedar Creek series. I am so in love with this series. Everyone’s story has just been phenomenal. Since the series continues each couples stories it is best if read in order.

I do love The Avengers movies so I love the Avengers cat crew names!

So several times I was literally laughing out loud during this book. Instances include:

Magnus saving Zoe from the 5 foot deep swimming pool

Like Danny Devito and Arnold Schwarzenegger in Twins

Seven Minutes in Heaven game - I have no idea what this is but still sitting here by myself laughing out loud

Triple Word Score in Scrabble

Ethan galloping towards Blake looking more like a gorilla than a bull

Seriously I hope there are more books to come but if not I highly recommend this author.

5 stars

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very cute, clean read. It was well written, with individually developed characters. There weren't any spelling/ grammar issues, or they were completely unnoticeable. Zoe has resigned herself to a single life with cats. But two of her best friends are not willing to accept this so they convince her to go on some dates. Zoe's third best friend from childhood has moved back to town to take over the family business. It's been 12 years since they have seen each other, and Zoe is very surprised at the changes and the feelings they brought. Magnus saw Zoe through the same lens as he always has - he's been in love since childhood. What ensues is a comedic adventure in blind dates, crazy paparazzi and taking a chance on love where you least expect it.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE best , friend to lover book by Kinley Raine. Zoe used to protect Magnus from the school bullies when they were young , he moved away though and she didn’t see him again. But now he’s back in town to take over his parents’ company as they’re both retiring. Zoe has her best friend back but there’s something hindering them …News reporters ! Of course Zoe has to be re introduced to her childhood friend as he didn’t have those bulging biceps or sex appeal then… Having said this , he definitely falls first in this beautiful story. Very well written with awesome relatable characters you want to be your friend. Loved every page.

[Ineta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the story of Magnus and Zoe, best friends from childhood.
Now billionaire Magnus is back in their small town, but they are not 12 years old any more. Love or friendship? Spark. Dark. Spark. Dark.
Zoe has to learn to accept new Magnus in her life.
Loved all characters, interactions with friends and families, loving, caring and protective.
Very funny, humorous story. Code word: Asparagus!
Easy to read and exciting. Looking forward to other books of Kinley Raine.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was Magnus and Zoe’s story. Magnus left for boarding school in seventh grade. Too introverted for the spotlight that comes with wealth. Her last memories are protecting him from bullies. But now his parents are retiring. Their billionaire dollar company is in his hands. He refuses to let the family legacy be sold. Which means her best friend is back in town. She never expected him to return so… transformed. Magnus is the same shy, sweet guy she remembers. But now he’s all grown up. There’s flirty banter and undeniable tension. It was a fun and entertaining read. And voluntarily leaving this review.

[lynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect, easy, entertaining beach, poolside read.

Magnus and Zoe are friends from elementary school days. He was,a nerdy geek and she was his defender and best friend until he goes away to school. Now, after years away he is back in town and both are all grown up.

This is a pleasant, sweet, well written, clean romance, with her interfering brothers and best friends pulling for them I found myself smiling and chuckling often I this book. My first read by this author, but I look forward to more.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I completely enjoyed this book. I loved the banter between the characters and the way the romance unfolded. The author lets you feel the giddiness of the possibilities of what's to come very early on, instead of teasing you throughout the book only to see a payoff on the last few pages. The writing style was like sitting and talking to a friend getting all the tea! Don't miss this one! This is one of my fave rom-coms this year!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Janine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zoe's story is the best of the series, in my opinion! Magnus as the MMC was *chef's kiss*

I adored this story. Mia and Emma's pregnancy cravings were insane! I loved Mr Whiskers. And I laughed to hard with both labour parts. Brilliant story telling! I really enjoyed the humour and banter in this book, and absolutely ADORED Zoe and Magnus' connection, and their HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kathleen Farren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the romance in this series. I loved that Zoe went out of her way to protect her heart only to realize Magnus is her true love. Ethan was hysterical hitting his head on the tree. I loved how they shared the last names of the girls in there children's name. I hope this series continues with at least books on the brothers.

If you are looking for a good rom-com this is definitely a series I would recommend.

[Dorothy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was such a light read. I loved it Zoe and mags relationship is so charming. I lost count how many times this book put a smile on my face. Over I’d give it 4 stars since it not a all time favorite but definitely up there for the year if you love cute hallmark type stories pick this one up it totally worth the read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Niki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnus and Zoe have been best friends for years, even when he went away to boarding school. Now he is back in town and better looking then ever, she has always had a crush on him but never acted on the feelings. When pictures of them get published they have to do something.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute read. I love the relationship Magnus and Zoe have and the relationship between Magnus and Zoe's brothers.

This is a he falls first, friends to lovers romance with a little bit of pain and heartache included. Different lifestyles add an extra bit of tension between the pair as do a few blind dates.

Nice, enjoyable read!

[Darla Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kinley’s writing keeps getting better and better. I loved this book! It was super cute. Clean kisses only and sweetly spicy haha. Really loved the romantic scenes in here. I also loved how the book was written reading the inside thoughts of the main characters. Can’t wait to read her next book!


I received an arc for my honest review.

[Debbie Benson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. It is a well written and light hearted story where childhood friends Magnus and Zoe meet again as adults and fall in love. I enjoyed the interactions of all the characters and I had fun reading it.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a cute and fun story about Zoe and Magnus that was hard to put down. The characters were enjoyable to read about, and I was overly impressed with the storyline and how Kinley wrote a really fun filled and romantic book.

[Doreen Farrar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, like I loved the earlier books in this series. I especially liked the Cat Distribution scenes--Mr Whiskers quickly became a focal point in the book, as he should be. Highly recommended! I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sheri Bolinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book! Magnus and Zoe, best friends since childhood, are reunited as adults when Magnus comes back to their hometown to sell his parents mansion. Even though these two have kept their friendship close over the years, they haven't seen each other since Magnus left for boarding school in 7th grade. Let's just say they each liked what they saw! This starts a Rollercoaster ride of new and uncomfortable feelings for Zoe as she is trying to figure out her dating life and Magnus would very much like to be in it. Here's the main problem, he just inherited his parents billion dollar company putting him in the spotlight. Can Zoe live with that lifestyle? Can Magnus? Will Zoe find someone else that can give her a calmer lifestyle she sees her friends have? You have to read to find out and it's well worth the time! This book drew me in from the beginning. I fell in love with the nerdy turned sexy unsure of himself Magnus! He was so great! And we can't forget about Mr. Whiskers! Just read it!.

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the funniest books I’ve read in a long time. I think I read at least half out loud to my friend that was visiting me, it was too funny not to share. Mangus and Zoe are so cute together and so clueless. Just the thought of Zoe Chloe Snowy made me laugh, not realizing that having sleepovers might not be appropriate, Blake and Ethan, Mia and Emma, to name a few of the places and things that made me giggle. It is a sweet romance but the interaction with family and friends is not to be missed. Zoe is so clueless for a smart lady. I really enjoyed this book.