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Sweet Southern #3
The Remarkable Lover
Jackson
Dreams collapse in the blink of an eye, I know that better than anyone after losing my career as an athlete. Now I spend my days giving people pleasure for pay and playing with stocks. Most of my friends have settled in Clay Springs, Florida. A sleepy little town that moves slower than molasses. Call it boredom or infatuation with the redhead who scowls at me every time I smile his way, but I think there’s also something special for me in Clay Springs. If only Harper would let me show him.
Harper
If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that most people suck. Not in the fun way either. All my cousins are settling down with their boyfriends and I’ve got my service dog and a brain disorder. Cool. When Jackson shows interest in me, I figure it has to be a joke. But the big guy wants to be my friend. Then he wants to date me. And now … well now I’m in too deep and it’s only a matter of time until he leaves. After all, I’m always too much or too little, never just enough.
The Remarkable Lover is the third book in the Sweet Southern series featuring one-sided annoyance to lovers, size difference, hurt/comfort, playboy/inexperienced, and a man who finally allows himself to be loved.
Dreams collapse in the blink of an eye, I know that better than anyone after losing my career as an athlete. Now I spend my days giving people pleasure for pay and playing with stocks. Most of my friends have settled in Clay Springs, Florida. A sleepy little town that moves slower than molasses. Call it boredom or infatuation with the redhead who scowls at me every time I smile his way, but I think there’s also something special for me in Clay Springs. If only Harper would let me show him.
Harper
If there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that most people suck. Not in the fun way either. All my cousins are settling down with their boyfriends and I’ve got my service dog and a brain disorder. Cool. When Jackson shows interest in me, I figure it has to be a joke. But the big guy wants to be my friend. Then he wants to date me. And now … well now I’m in too deep and it’s only a matter of time until he leaves. After all, I’m always too much or too little, never just enough.
The Remarkable Lover is the third book in the Sweet Southern series featuring one-sided annoyance to lovers, size difference, hurt/comfort, playboy/inexperienced, and a man who finally allows himself to be loved.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2025
35 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
About the author
Maya Jean
9 books94 followersMaya spends most of her time imagining happily ever afters for the characters that live in her head. If she's not plotting how to heal broken hearts for her characters then she’s spending time with her precocious daughter. She loves baking competitions, listening to the same song on repeat for months, and discussing the latest pop culture event in a group chat with her best friends.
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March 21, 2025
Jackson & Harper & Honey 🦮 | 4.5⭐
So, I’m back in Clay Springs, Florida—this time for Harper (aka grumpy cat) and Jackson (aka golden retriever)’s story. And Honey 😍😍😍😍😍😍
Tropes:
🧡Grumpy brat / Golden Retriever(spoiler: it’s not Honey)
🧡One-sided annoyance to lovers
🧡Size difference
🧡Playboy / Inexperienced
🧡Slow burn with a sprinkle of instalove
🧡Amazing first times
🧡MC w/ epilepsy | Service dog
🧡Cupcakes
🧡Bouquet of flowers
🧡Bucket list of dream dates
🧡Pinky and the brain 😂
This is a quiet, heartfelt romance that unfolds with patience and care. Jackson, a former athlete turned escort, is drawn to the small-town life of Clay Springs—especially to Harper, a guarded redhead with epilepsy who isn’t quick to trust. Their connection builds slowly, with Jackson’s persistence and kindness gradually breaking through Harper’s walls.
Jackson—new book boyfriend unlocked! The way he makes all of Harper’s wishes come true? Simply beautiful. Even grumpy Harper can only blush and accept being loved. And the way Jackson checks off every item on Harper’s bucket list? Utterly swoon-worthy. 😍
He might seem pushy, but he knew Harper just needed a steady hand. From the moment he handled Harper’s first seizure, my heart melted. The care, attention, and selfless tenderness—loved it. Yes, he’s persistent, but it’s undeniably lovely 🥹.Even when Jackson goes full caveman, it’s sweet. He’s all instinct and possessiveness, but in a way that makes you swoon rather than roll your eyes. Protective, a little demanding, but never overbearing—just right.
Also, just to make things even better—their sex dynamic is pure perfection. First times, a commanding Jackson and an eager but submissive Harper… chef’s kiss. And then the moment when the experienced Jackson completely unravels, losing control because of Harper? Toe-curling. Delicious.Yes, Daddy!
“What does this mean to both of us?” I ask, voice more confident than I expected.
A bittersweet smile inches across Jackson’s lips while he brushes the hair from my face. His fingers skim down the length of my hair, eyes lingering on where the strands get caught between his fingers.
“Harper, this means everything. Don’t you know?”
I really appreciated how the book handled Harper’s condition—it felt natural and well-researched, not just a plot device. Jackson is easy to love, cocky yet steady and patient in a way that makes their relationship feel real. It’s a slow burn, more about trust and healing than big, dramatic moments, but that’s exactly what makes it work.🧡
Some things felt a bit too quickly resolved for me, like Harper’s relationship with his parents. Even if it was meant to be an easy fix, a glimpse into their future—just to show they’re genuinely communicating better—would have been nice.And I get where Harper’s brattiness comes from, but come on… does he really have to hiss so much? Just—chill and enjoy life a little, okay?
PS: I loved this epilogue and to see Harper and Jackson with such a full home was delightful.🧡
TW
-Discussions regarding medication and healthcare regarding epilepsy
-Off-page seizure
-Helicopter parenting
-Adopted MC
-Loss of athletic career due to injury
-Past bullying
-Using the term “daddy” loosely during sex but NO daddy kink”
“Sometimes I think I dreamt you,” I whisper into Jackson’s still-shower-warm skin.
“I think the same thing,” Jackson admits.
“Maybe we dreamed each other up.”
Jackson presses a lingering kiss to my temple. “I believe it. You’re hard to explain otherwise.”
“Why would you dream up such a sassy twink?”
Jackson’s chest vibrates with his laughter, and I smirk against his skin, pressing a kiss just above his heart. We fall asleep that way, tangled up together, comfortable in the knowledge that we’re each other's dreams.
So, I’m back in Clay Springs, Florida—this time for Harper (aka grumpy cat) and Jackson (aka golden retriever)’s story. And Honey 😍😍😍😍😍😍
Tropes:
🧡Grumpy brat / Golden Retriever(spoiler: it’s not Honey)
🧡One-sided annoyance to lovers
🧡Size difference
🧡Playboy / Inexperienced
🧡Slow burn with a sprinkle of instalove
🧡Amazing first times
🧡MC w/ epilepsy | Service dog
🧡Cupcakes
🧡Bouquet of flowers
🧡Bucket list of dream dates
🧡Pinky and the brain 😂
This is a quiet, heartfelt romance that unfolds with patience and care. Jackson, a former athlete turned escort, is drawn to the small-town life of Clay Springs—especially to Harper, a guarded redhead with epilepsy who isn’t quick to trust. Their connection builds slowly, with Jackson’s persistence and kindness gradually breaking through Harper’s walls.
Jackson—new book boyfriend unlocked! The way he makes all of Harper’s wishes come true? Simply beautiful. Even grumpy Harper can only blush and accept being loved. And the way Jackson checks off every item on Harper’s bucket list? Utterly swoon-worthy. 😍
He might seem pushy, but he knew Harper just needed a steady hand. From the moment he handled Harper’s first seizure, my heart melted. The care, attention, and selfless tenderness—loved it. Yes, he’s persistent, but it’s undeniably lovely 🥹.Even when Jackson goes full caveman, it’s sweet. He’s all instinct and possessiveness, but in a way that makes you swoon rather than roll your eyes. Protective, a little demanding, but never overbearing—just right.
Also, just to make things even better—their sex dynamic is pure perfection. First times, a commanding Jackson and an eager but submissive Harper… chef’s kiss. And then the moment when the experienced Jackson completely unravels, losing control because of Harper? Toe-curling. Delicious.Yes, Daddy!
“What does this mean to both of us?” I ask, voice more confident than I expected.
A bittersweet smile inches across Jackson’s lips while he brushes the hair from my face. His fingers skim down the length of my hair, eyes lingering on where the strands get caught between his fingers.
“Harper, this means everything. Don’t you know?”
I really appreciated how the book handled Harper’s condition—it felt natural and well-researched, not just a plot device. Jackson is easy to love, cocky yet steady and patient in a way that makes their relationship feel real. It’s a slow burn, more about trust and healing than big, dramatic moments, but that’s exactly what makes it work.🧡
Some things felt a bit too quickly resolved for me, like Harper’s relationship with his parents. Even if it was meant to be an easy fix, a glimpse into their future—just to show they’re genuinely communicating better—would have been nice.And I get where Harper’s brattiness comes from, but come on… does he really have to hiss so much? Just—chill and enjoy life a little, okay?
PS: I loved this epilogue and to see Harper and Jackson with such a full home was delightful.🧡
TW
-Discussions regarding medication and healthcare regarding epilepsy
-Off-page seizure
-Helicopter parenting
-Adopted MC
-Loss of athletic career due to injury
-Past bullying
-Using the term “daddy” loosely during sex but NO daddy kink”
“Sometimes I think I dreamt you,” I whisper into Jackson’s still-shower-warm skin.
“I think the same thing,” Jackson admits.
“Maybe we dreamed each other up.”
Jackson presses a lingering kiss to my temple. “I believe it. You’re hard to explain otherwise.”
“Why would you dream up such a sassy twink?”
Jackson’s chest vibrates with his laughter, and I smirk against his skin, pressing a kiss just above his heart. We fall asleep that way, tangled up together, comfortable in the knowledge that we’re each other's dreams.
December 16, 2024
⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️
So much comfort & warmth in this cozy romance. Jackson was honestly too good to be true, Harper prickly but lovable.
Very fairytale-like — gorgeous & rich Jackson makes hurt & ‘broken’ Harper believe in love.
It was sweet, romantic, ooey-gooey. Maybe a tad too depressingly sweet, like don’t make me fantasize about an impossible fantasy life, please.
Super hot spice. I would’ve loved for them to actually commit fully to the Daddy kink, but even without it they were great together. Passionate and loving, slow and caring.
Best part of the whole book? Honey, the bestest girl, sweetest service puppy. Love her.
Also love this author’s writing style and I’m curious to see what the next installment will bring.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Mentions of past bullying
- Size difference
- Grumpy/sunshine
- MC w/ epilepsy
- Service dog
- A bit of sex Daddy, no Daddy kink
- Virgin MC
- Frotting/grinding
- Rimming
- Strict top/bottom
I wish his smile belonged to me, just to catch and hold when I most need it.
So much comfort & warmth in this cozy romance. Jackson was honestly too good to be true, Harper prickly but lovable.
Very fairytale-like — gorgeous & rich Jackson makes hurt & ‘broken’ Harper believe in love.
It was sweet, romantic, ooey-gooey. Maybe a tad too depressingly sweet, like don’t make me fantasize about an impossible fantasy life, please.
“You make me so fucking hard, just for you. Come with me, okay? Come.”
Super hot spice. I would’ve loved for them to actually commit fully to the Daddy kink, but even without it they were great together. Passionate and loving, slow and caring.
Best part of the whole book? Honey, the bestest girl, sweetest service puppy. Love her.
Also love this author’s writing style and I’m curious to see what the next installment will bring.
Forever never sounded so sweet.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Mentions of past bullying
- Size difference
- Grumpy/sunshine
- MC w/ epilepsy
- Service dog
- A bit of sex Daddy, no Daddy kink
- Virgin MC
- Frotting/grinding
- Rimming
- Strict top/bottom
March 30, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up.
Oh, I LOVED this!
My favourite of the series so far.
I fell so deeply in love with both of the MCs in this one.
I adored Harper the moment he was introduced, so was so excited to finally get to his story, and I was definitely not disappointed.
Hurt/Comfort, Sunshine/Grumpy, Honey is the bestest girl/Support Dog, Found Family, Small Town, Farm Life
Yes, these books are a bit repetitive, both with the other books and in themselves, sometimes repeating the same lines over, but I don't care.
Oh, I LOVED this!
My favourite of the series so far.
I fell so deeply in love with both of the MCs in this one.
I adored Harper the moment he was introduced, so was so excited to finally get to his story, and I was definitely not disappointed.
Hurt/Comfort, Sunshine/Grumpy, Honey is the bestest girl/Support Dog, Found Family, Small Town, Farm Life
Yes, these books are a bit repetitive, both with the other books and in themselves, sometimes repeating the same lines over, but I don't care.
December 9, 2024
Genre: M/M Romance
Format: E-Book
Series: Sweet Southern # 3
Character Development: 4.5/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Spice Level: 3/5
Overall Rating: 5/5
I am at a loss for words. It has been 24 hours since I finished this book and I still can't form words. Not enough to create the review Maya deserves, but I will try and may update this later.
As someone who has epilepsy, I was worried about how I would feel reading about it. However, Maya did her homework, and her sensitivity readers did her justice. I have never related to a character more than I have with Harper. His struggles were real, raw and so vulnerable. Then enters Jackson who makes my heart melt. Someone so caring, and trusting, willing to show Harper he is more than his brain disorder.
I need more from these two. I need more of Maya's books. She has been one of my favorite authors of 2024.
If you love, sweet, idyllic Hallmark towns, with MCs that melt your heart. Her books are for you.
The Husband Experience ♥ Eli and Colby ♥ 4.5/5
The Former Fake Boyfriend ♥ Trevor and Beau ♥ 4.5/5
The Remarkable Lover ♥ Jackson and Harper ♥ 5/5
The Long Refrain ♥ Benji and Nolan ♥ ETA 04/09/2025
Tropes:
• Size Difference
• Hurt/Comfort
• One-sided annoyance to lovers
• Slowburn with a dash of Instalove
• Epilepsy ♥ and service dog rep
• HEA
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
Format: E-Book
Series: Sweet Southern # 3
Character Development: 4.5/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Spice Level: 3/5
Overall Rating: 5/5
I am at a loss for words. It has been 24 hours since I finished this book and I still can't form words. Not enough to create the review Maya deserves, but I will try and may update this later.
As someone who has epilepsy, I was worried about how I would feel reading about it. However, Maya did her homework, and her sensitivity readers did her justice. I have never related to a character more than I have with Harper. His struggles were real, raw and so vulnerable. Then enters Jackson who makes my heart melt. Someone so caring, and trusting, willing to show Harper he is more than his brain disorder.
I need more from these two. I need more of Maya's books. She has been one of my favorite authors of 2024.
If you love, sweet, idyllic Hallmark towns, with MCs that melt your heart. Her books are for you.
The Husband Experience ♥ Eli and Colby ♥ 4.5/5
The Former Fake Boyfriend ♥ Trevor and Beau ♥ 4.5/5
The Remarkable Lover ♥ Jackson and Harper ♥ 5/5
The Long Refrain ♥ Benji and Nolan ♥ ETA 04/09/2025
Tropes:
• Size Difference
• Hurt/Comfort
• One-sided annoyance to lovers
• Slowburn with a dash of Instalove
• Epilepsy ♥ and service dog rep
• HEA
Cheating:
Third-act breakup:
POV: Dual POV (First Person POV)
December 13, 2024
✨ARC REVIEW✨
This romance was wholesome and sweet. We've got Harper, who is prickly and bratty, but he really want someone to love him without pitying him or controlling him because of his epilepsy. And we've got Jackson who is and ex athlete who got injured and was an escort until he sets his eyes on Harper and decides he's the man for him. Jackson has his work cut out for him, but he is patient and giving and considerate, and little by little, Harper lowers his walls. There's hurt/comfort, which of course is my fav. There's "we've been dating for a while but we haven't even named it" (basically because Harper gets his spikes up like the little hedgehog that he is). And there are cupcakes.
Jackson is amazing as a boyfriend and as a person. He is perfect. And bb Harper, even with his brattiness and his temper, just needs to let himself be loved and trust Jackson to be there for him.
I was happy to see the other couples living their best life. And the Liam Walsh cameo 😭🫶🏽.
This series has super wholesome romances. Love.
This romance was wholesome and sweet. We've got Harper, who is prickly and bratty, but he really want someone to love him without pitying him or controlling him because of his epilepsy. And we've got Jackson who is and ex athlete who got injured and was an escort until he sets his eyes on Harper and decides he's the man for him. Jackson has his work cut out for him, but he is patient and giving and considerate, and little by little, Harper lowers his walls. There's hurt/comfort, which of course is my fav. There's "we've been dating for a while but we haven't even named it" (basically because Harper gets his spikes up like the little hedgehog that he is). And there are cupcakes.
Jackson is amazing as a boyfriend and as a person. He is perfect. And bb Harper, even with his brattiness and his temper, just needs to let himself be loved and trust Jackson to be there for him.
I was happy to see the other couples living their best life. And the Liam Walsh cameo 😭🫶🏽.
This series has super wholesome romances. Love.
December 31, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
“𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐈 𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮,” 𝐈 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧’𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥-𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫-𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐦 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐧.
“𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠,” 𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐝𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐬.
“𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐛𝐞 𝐰𝐞 𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐮𝐩.”
𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞. “𝐈 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐞.”
I thought I loved Eli and Colby, then Beau and Trevor stole my heart, but Harper and Jackson?! Hands down my favorite couple of the series.
Jackson is an absolute dreamboat who was head over heels for Harper the moment he met him, and was so adorably determined to win him over no matter what. He took all of Harper’s snark and anger about his disorder in stride, and was an utter rock for him.
& Harper… always so full of piss and vinegar, but was truly just a precious little angel baby underneath it all. Despite all his protesting, he really needed someone like Jackson to push past his walls and love him unconditionally no matter how much he fought against it.
These two were just everything, and I loved their story so much!
- size difference
- hurt x comfort
- experienced mc + virgin
- epilepsy rep + service dog
- instalove + slow burn
“𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐈 𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮,” 𝐈 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧’𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥-𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫-𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐦 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐧.
“𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠,” 𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐝𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐬.
“𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐛𝐞 𝐰𝐞 𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐮𝐩.”
𝐉𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞. “𝐈 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐭. 𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐞.”
I thought I loved Eli and Colby, then Beau and Trevor stole my heart, but Harper and Jackson?! Hands down my favorite couple of the series.
Jackson is an absolute dreamboat who was head over heels for Harper the moment he met him, and was so adorably determined to win him over no matter what. He took all of Harper’s snark and anger about his disorder in stride, and was an utter rock for him.
& Harper… always so full of piss and vinegar, but was truly just a precious little angel baby underneath it all. Despite all his protesting, he really needed someone like Jackson to push past his walls and love him unconditionally no matter how much he fought against it.
These two were just everything, and I loved their story so much!
- size difference
- hurt x comfort
- experienced mc + virgin
- epilepsy rep + service dog
- instalove + slow burn
December 8, 2024
Okay. I’m back.
Lord. These two were just the absolute sweetest of the sweetest.
This is one of those books that makes me believe that fated mates aren’t just a supernatural thing. These two are beyond soul mates. They just are.
Harper tries to resist it, he does. He gives it a valiant effort…but Jackson is Jackson. No one can resist him, even if you are allergic to bullsh*t.
Often in the “reluctance to lovers” trope, the one pursuing the other just comes off as pushy and overbearing. Jackson is neither. He may be there all the time but it’s never uncomfortable or unwanted. 🥹
I’ve been waiting for their story for… well since TFFB and it did not disappoint in the slightest. 😭
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review! 🖤
Lord. These two were just the absolute sweetest of the sweetest.
This is one of those books that makes me believe that fated mates aren’t just a supernatural thing. These two are beyond soul mates. They just are.
Harper tries to resist it, he does. He gives it a valiant effort…but Jackson is Jackson. No one can resist him, even if you are allergic to bullsh*t.
Often in the “reluctance to lovers” trope, the one pursuing the other just comes off as pushy and overbearing. Jackson is neither. He may be there all the time but it’s never uncomfortable or unwanted. 🥹
I’ve been waiting for their story for… well since TFFB and it did not disappoint in the slightest. 😭
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review! 🖤
December 16, 2024
I devoured this book in one sitting, I couldn’t stop reading. It’s everything I love about romance! Sweet, emotional, funny, spicy and the characters are very lovable. Maya Jean has completely outdone herself.
Maya Jean, how dare you write such amazing characters? Harper is a redhead, sarcastic and absolutely adorable! And Jackson was winning the best boyfriend award before he was even officially a boyfriend. I love them SO MUCH it hurts!
The chemistry is off the charts, the intimacy is amazing and their connection is beautiful. Everything is just perfect. Jackson’s protective side made me melt and Harper is such a little menace. But he’s also someone who didn’t believe he deserved love. Watching him find someone like Jackson, a man who loves him exactly as he is and will always be there for him, absolutely broke me (in the best way). Every scene between them, whether tender or steamy, had so much meaning. Together, they’re magic and they’re easily my favorite couple in the series so far.
I also loved their daddy/brat dynamic, it’s not super kinky but just enough to be fun and super hot. And the sex scenes are phenomenal! I find them repetitive in romance sometimes, but here everything felt fresh, intentional and so, so beautiful.
And can we talk about the flowers? Thank you Maya for including a moment where a man gives flowers to another man! It’s such an underrated gesture and we don’t see it enough in romance novels. Men want flowers too!
This book is one of the best love stories I’ve read lately and I HIGHLY recommend it.
I’m already excited to read Benji and Nolan’s story!
Maya Jean, how dare you write such amazing characters? Harper is a redhead, sarcastic and absolutely adorable! And Jackson was winning the best boyfriend award before he was even officially a boyfriend. I love them SO MUCH it hurts!
The chemistry is off the charts, the intimacy is amazing and their connection is beautiful. Everything is just perfect. Jackson’s protective side made me melt and Harper is such a little menace. But he’s also someone who didn’t believe he deserved love. Watching him find someone like Jackson, a man who loves him exactly as he is and will always be there for him, absolutely broke me (in the best way). Every scene between them, whether tender or steamy, had so much meaning. Together, they’re magic and they’re easily my favorite couple in the series so far.
I also loved their daddy/brat dynamic, it’s not super kinky but just enough to be fun and super hot. And the sex scenes are phenomenal! I find them repetitive in romance sometimes, but here everything felt fresh, intentional and so, so beautiful.
And can we talk about the flowers? Thank you Maya for including a moment where a man gives flowers to another man! It’s such an underrated gesture and we don’t see it enough in romance novels. Men want flowers too!
This book is one of the best love stories I’ve read lately and I HIGHLY recommend it.
I’m already excited to read Benji and Nolan’s story!
January 2, 2025
This book has everything you need to start 2025 perfectly!
Jackson is the best boyfriend you can ever find. From the very beginning, he knows Harper is the one for him, and he stops at nothing to learn more about him to seduce him. He’s patient and kind and funny, and exactly what Harper needs. And did Harper broke my heart once or twice 🥲 I felt so sorry for how he saw himself, how unwanted he felt all along. Good thing Honey is here to bring him some joy… until Jackson appears of course!
Maya truly writes the most heartwarming romance. I loved the setting so much, the dates and small attentions, the side characters, the romantic atmosphere. Everything in this book is made to make you fall in love with romance all over again!
Do not miss out on this one!
Jackson is the best boyfriend you can ever find. From the very beginning, he knows Harper is the one for him, and he stops at nothing to learn more about him to seduce him. He’s patient and kind and funny, and exactly what Harper needs. And did Harper broke my heart once or twice 🥲 I felt so sorry for how he saw himself, how unwanted he felt all along. Good thing Honey is here to bring him some joy… until Jackson appears of course!
Maya truly writes the most heartwarming romance. I loved the setting so much, the dates and small attentions, the side characters, the romantic atmosphere. Everything in this book is made to make you fall in love with romance all over again!
Do not miss out on this one!
July 4, 2025
Rating: 5 ⭐
Well, it seems every Maya Jean's books are a five stars read. I'm not surprised anymore ❤️
Jackson and Harper (and Honey too!) were just perfect together. Their story was so sweet; I can't count how many times they made me grin and laugh.
Well, it seems every Maya Jean's books are a five stars read. I'm not surprised anymore ❤️
Jackson and Harper (and Honey too!) were just perfect together. Their story was so sweet; I can't count how many times they made me grin and laugh.
December 14, 2024
"You’re perfect for me. You really are.”
“Don’t be disgusting.”
I was lucky enough to get to read an ARC of The Remarkable Lover (out Jan 1) and you guys, THIS BOOK!? It's so freaking good!!
The banter is top notch, the characters are amazing, the chemistry is fire, and the epilepsy and service dog rep is on point *chef's kiss*
It was such a fun, heartfelt, romantic book that put me through a rollercoaster of emotions from snort-laughing, to giddily screeching into my pillow while kicking my feet, to having my heart ache.
I'm an absolute sucker for black cat/golden retriever, and one-sided annoyances to lovers, and Harper and Jackson were an absolute delight!
Harper is sarcastic, prickly, and closed off, and convinced a romantic relationship isn't in his future because no one could possibly love him due to his insecurities about his epilepsy and past trauma. Enter Jackson, the gorgeous, confident outsider who's immediately smitten with Harper and who makes it his mission in life to not only date him, but out-stubborn Harper until he believes he's worthy of love in general and has Jackson's love and adoration in particular.
"Harper, you’ve no idea. I’m going to keep you forever. Don’t you know?"
There's also excellent found family in The Remarkable Lover as this is the 3rd book in Maya's Sweet Southern series about a group of escorts who find love in a small southern town. I think you can read this on its own but I'd recommend reading the previous two books (the first is only a novella) to fully appreciate the wonderful group of people you meet in this series.
Read this book for:
🖤Black cat/golden retriever
🧡Hurt/comfort
🖤One-sided annoyance to lovers
🧡Grumpy/sunshine
🖤Experienced/Inexperienced
🧡Epilepsy and service dog rep
Thanks to the author for the ARC. The Remarkable Lover is out January 1, 2025
December 13, 2024
What a freaking delightful installment <3
This might be my favourite Maya Jean, quite possibly.
Nobody is surprised by this by now, because I always tend to repeat it in my reviews, but I love my contemporaries when they have a bit more heft, from an angst point of view, and "The Remarkable Lover" was precisely my kind of romance in that specific way.
It's still a very sweet, very light-hearted romance, but it has an emotional, angsty undercurrent that hit just right *chef's kiss*
It's definitely Maya Jean's most mature romance, I think, and I seriously cannot wait to see the even bigger improvements we'll be definitely getting in the next novel in this "Sweet Southern" series.
Angst and emotional upheavals aside, what I loved most in this installment was how well-rounded both protagonists felt: they shine brighter, and feel more realistic and complex, especially Harper, and I adored seeing their dynamic change and their relationship grow.
Harper especially was a delightfully complex character: he hisses and attacks like a stray, touch-starved cat, but he's also so unbelievably lovely and thoughtful and ughhhh, he deserves happiness SO MUCH. I loved him! And I loved Jackson too. The previous love interests in this series always felt a smidge too perfect for my liking, but Jackson, while absolutely perfect (and a literal dreamboat *swoons*), is also freaking lovable and well-rounded, with a few hidden vulnerabilities: he's both a sunshiny goofball with so much golden retriever energy he'd give Harper's service dog, Honey, a run for her money, but also SO domineering and possessive and the literal embodiment of a Service Top with some serious Daddy energy... give me a man who can do both *nods in approval*
I usually steer clear of Daddy kink, apart from a few authors I trust can do it right, but I think Maya Jean is now officially on that (very short) list.
Speaking of which, the steam was fire. Hands down the best steam this author has written, maybe because I felt so connected to both MCs and their dynamic.
As usual, I adored the side characters and the found family vibes they always have going on. The group interactions were so lovely. I cannot wait to be back with them all for Benji and Nolan's romance. I CANNOT WAIT to see what will happen with those two as well... I'm so intrigued.
Anyway, back to Jackson and Harper... black cat/golden retriever, one sided annoyance to lovers, a ton of hurt/comfort, delicious size difference, ALLLLL the first times, plus Lite Daddy kink? Set in a wonderfully wholesome small-town, with found family, and the most adorable service dog? PLUS chronic illness and anxiety rep? I was hooked from the start, and I wholly recommend if those tropes appeal to you.
I cann0t wait to read the next book (and also, the one after that too: I'M INTRIGUED *cackles gleefully*).
TWs/CWs: epilepsy and off-page seizure, injury (past), toxic parent relationship, brief mention of instances of racism, self-deprecating jokes about suicide ideation struggles, mental health struggles (self-worth, anxiety).
Many thanks to the author for the ARC. This is my honest review.
This might be my favourite Maya Jean, quite possibly.
Nobody is surprised by this by now, because I always tend to repeat it in my reviews, but I love my contemporaries when they have a bit more heft, from an angst point of view, and "The Remarkable Lover" was precisely my kind of romance in that specific way.
It's still a very sweet, very light-hearted romance, but it has an emotional, angsty undercurrent that hit just right *chef's kiss*
It's definitely Maya Jean's most mature romance, I think, and I seriously cannot wait to see the even bigger improvements we'll be definitely getting in the next novel in this "Sweet Southern" series.
Angst and emotional upheavals aside, what I loved most in this installment was how well-rounded both protagonists felt: they shine brighter, and feel more realistic and complex, especially Harper, and I adored seeing their dynamic change and their relationship grow.
Harper especially was a delightfully complex character: he hisses and attacks like a stray, touch-starved cat, but he's also so unbelievably lovely and thoughtful and ughhhh, he deserves happiness SO MUCH. I loved him! And I loved Jackson too. The previous love interests in this series always felt a smidge too perfect for my liking, but Jackson, while absolutely perfect (and a literal dreamboat *swoons*), is also freaking lovable and well-rounded, with a few hidden vulnerabilities: he's both a sunshiny goofball with so much golden retriever energy he'd give Harper's service dog, Honey, a run for her money, but also SO domineering and possessive and the literal embodiment of a Service Top with some serious Daddy energy... give me a man who can do both *nods in approval*
I usually steer clear of Daddy kink, apart from a few authors I trust can do it right, but I think Maya Jean is now officially on that (very short) list.
Speaking of which, the steam was fire. Hands down the best steam this author has written, maybe because I felt so connected to both MCs and their dynamic.
As usual, I adored the side characters and the found family vibes they always have going on. The group interactions were so lovely. I cannot wait to be back with them all for Benji and Nolan's romance. I CANNOT WAIT to see what will happen with those two as well... I'm so intrigued.
Anyway, back to Jackson and Harper... black cat/golden retriever, one sided annoyance to lovers, a ton of hurt/comfort, delicious size difference, ALLLLL the first times, plus Lite Daddy kink? Set in a wonderfully wholesome small-town, with found family, and the most adorable service dog? PLUS chronic illness and anxiety rep? I was hooked from the start, and I wholly recommend if those tropes appeal to you.
I cann0t wait to read the next book (and also, the one after that too: I'M INTRIGUED *cackles gleefully*).
TWs/CWs: epilepsy and off-page seizure, injury (past), toxic parent relationship, brief mention of instances of racism, self-deprecating jokes about suicide ideation struggles, mental health struggles (self-worth, anxiety).
Many thanks to the author for the ARC. This is my honest review.
December 13, 2024
SWOONIEST STORY IN THE SERIES
I've been eagerly anticipating Harper and Jackson's story since their brief appearances in the previous books, and it exceeded all expectations. Every moment of this captivating story was pure bliss. Harper and Jackson's love story is the most swoon-worthy and heartwarming in the series.
Jackson, tired of his fake-boyfriend role, returns to Clay Springs seeking a genuine connection. His target: Harper, Beau and Colby's cousin, who also lives with epilepsy. Initially wary of Jackson's intentions, Harper reluctantly gives him a chance. I adored how Jackson patiently chipped away at Harper's defenses, encouraging him to embrace life's simple pleasures. While Harper could be a bit of a brat, Jackson's unwavering affection never faltered. Their chemistry was undeniable, and Jackson's adoration for Harper was palpable. The intimate scenes were exquisitely written.
The supporting characters were delightful, providing invaluable assistance and unwavering support for Jackson. Honey, the adorable dog, stole the show, and the interactions with their parents were heartwarming.
Overall, this book is a must-read. I highly recommend it and can't wait for Benji's story next.
* I received an ARC copy from GRR and this is my honest review *
I've been eagerly anticipating Harper and Jackson's story since their brief appearances in the previous books, and it exceeded all expectations. Every moment of this captivating story was pure bliss. Harper and Jackson's love story is the most swoon-worthy and heartwarming in the series.
Jackson, tired of his fake-boyfriend role, returns to Clay Springs seeking a genuine connection. His target: Harper, Beau and Colby's cousin, who also lives with epilepsy. Initially wary of Jackson's intentions, Harper reluctantly gives him a chance. I adored how Jackson patiently chipped away at Harper's defenses, encouraging him to embrace life's simple pleasures. While Harper could be a bit of a brat, Jackson's unwavering affection never faltered. Their chemistry was undeniable, and Jackson's adoration for Harper was palpable. The intimate scenes were exquisitely written.
The supporting characters were delightful, providing invaluable assistance and unwavering support for Jackson. Honey, the adorable dog, stole the show, and the interactions with their parents were heartwarming.
Overall, this book is a must-read. I highly recommend it and can't wait for Benji's story next.
* I received an ARC copy from GRR and this is my honest review *
December 28, 2024
Book 3 of this series is definitely my favourite.
So far , all three books have this pivotal BBQ scene and if you’ve read books 1and 2 you will know what I mean.
Book 3 starts at the BBQ where Jackson falls into Insta love/lust with Harper but fails to get his number.
Harper has epilepsy, which has ramped up with more seizures. He has a service dog, Honey. Living in a small town , where everyone knows your business, Harper lives alone and isolated. He’s not who he wants to be and resents his disability.
Harper is distrustful and thinks Jackson is cruelly pranking him when he asks to hang out together.
Jackson decides to stay in Clay Springs longer, much to Harpers shock and snarky displeasure. Although it’s not really displeasure. Harper is fighting hard the attraction. His epilepsy and teen years have left scars both visible and hidden.
Jackson is fascinated by Harper.
“Jackson puts on his blinker to pull into the farm. “You’re a goddamn punk. You lie, you are sarcastic to the core, you refuse to let people help you, and you’re clueless about just how goddamn beautiful you are. So yeah, punk. That’s your nickname.”
Harper lets the two of them be friends. After a friend outing, Harper has a seizure and Jackson finds out about the epilepsy. This brings them closer.
Harper feels lonely, useless , broken and a burden but when Jackson hold him in his arms he feels safe.
And omg Jackson is just this absolute sweetheart. He cares about Harper and Honey. He brings love and life to Harper , giving him his dreams tailor made to accommodate his epilepsy.
“Jackson is one of my best friends,” Trevor murmurs in my ear, warm breath ghosting over my already flushed cheek. “And when I tell you I’ve never seen him want someone as much as he wants you… if you let him have you, he’ll never let go. It’s up to you, Harper.”
Harper is in serious need of a blanket burrito , he’s so broken inside and can’t see why Jackson is showing interest.
Yet somehow they are dating. The sweetheart and the sassy snark lol. Harpers walls are sky high but he’s trying to let Jackson in… while waiting for him to leave.
“And for one brief moment, I wonder what it would be like to keep him. Me and him in twenty years, a few kids, and another service dog to fill our home. But then I think about five seizures a year, feeling more and more like a burden with each one, and the beautiful fantasy vanishes into a plume of painful smoke.”
These two. They are just perfection together with their loving moments and their playful moments, the petulance from Harper, and the loving gentleness of Jackson . Just pure adoration.
“I know that saying I love you to Harper isn’t a magic fix nor is he saying it back to me a cure-all. The rest of my life will be spent proving to him that I love him, that I’m staying, that he’s worth being kept by me.”
So far , all three books have this pivotal BBQ scene and if you’ve read books 1and 2 you will know what I mean.
Book 3 starts at the BBQ where Jackson falls into Insta love/lust with Harper but fails to get his number.
Harper has epilepsy, which has ramped up with more seizures. He has a service dog, Honey. Living in a small town , where everyone knows your business, Harper lives alone and isolated. He’s not who he wants to be and resents his disability.
Harper is distrustful and thinks Jackson is cruelly pranking him when he asks to hang out together.
Jackson decides to stay in Clay Springs longer, much to Harpers shock and snarky displeasure. Although it’s not really displeasure. Harper is fighting hard the attraction. His epilepsy and teen years have left scars both visible and hidden.
Jackson is fascinated by Harper.
“Jackson puts on his blinker to pull into the farm. “You’re a goddamn punk. You lie, you are sarcastic to the core, you refuse to let people help you, and you’re clueless about just how goddamn beautiful you are. So yeah, punk. That’s your nickname.”
Harper lets the two of them be friends. After a friend outing, Harper has a seizure and Jackson finds out about the epilepsy. This brings them closer.
Harper feels lonely, useless , broken and a burden but when Jackson hold him in his arms he feels safe.
And omg Jackson is just this absolute sweetheart. He cares about Harper and Honey. He brings love and life to Harper , giving him his dreams tailor made to accommodate his epilepsy.
“Jackson is one of my best friends,” Trevor murmurs in my ear, warm breath ghosting over my already flushed cheek. “And when I tell you I’ve never seen him want someone as much as he wants you… if you let him have you, he’ll never let go. It’s up to you, Harper.”
Harper is in serious need of a blanket burrito , he’s so broken inside and can’t see why Jackson is showing interest.
Yet somehow they are dating. The sweetheart and the sassy snark lol. Harpers walls are sky high but he’s trying to let Jackson in… while waiting for him to leave.
“And for one brief moment, I wonder what it would be like to keep him. Me and him in twenty years, a few kids, and another service dog to fill our home. But then I think about five seizures a year, feeling more and more like a burden with each one, and the beautiful fantasy vanishes into a plume of painful smoke.”
These two. They are just perfection together with their loving moments and their playful moments, the petulance from Harper, and the loving gentleness of Jackson . Just pure adoration.
“I know that saying I love you to Harper isn’t a magic fix nor is he saying it back to me a cure-all. The rest of my life will be spent proving to him that I love him, that I’m staying, that he’s worth being kept by me.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2024
Jackson and Harper, my babies 🥰
Maya Jean never lets me down.. I have loved every single bit of this series, but this story is special 🥹
Harper doesn’t believe he is easy to love, but just like Jackson, I fell in love immediately. I just want to give him all the hugs. And Jackson… truly the perfect boyfriend.. is exactly what Harper needs. This will definitely be a comfort read for me, just like the rest of Maya’s books. I truly love them all 🥰
November 8, 2024
“𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘢 𝘣𝘶𝘣𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘢 𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘬.”
“𝙅𝙚𝙚𝙯, 𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧. 𝘿𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙧𝙚𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙨?”
jackson + harper, WOW.
i had the absolute pleasure of getting to read this one in bits and pieces and then altogether. i knew i was going to be obsessed with them because harper’s prickly personality is quite possibly one of my favorite things about him. let’s get into it.
meet jackson, daddy of the fake boyfriends ;) he sees his friends falling in love, settling down, and making a home in clay springs. what’s the hoopla? enter harper, the magnificent redhead who absolutely captivated him from the literal first glance with his snarky personality and glorious hair. and we can’t forget sweet honey. she detects bullshit! 🤧
i cannot express enough how much i fucking LOVE a mean ass MC x a totally whipped MC & these two are givingggg. the push and pull is so 😮💨 that the payoff is even better.
maya has done it once again, another amazing installment in the sweet southern series, but these two have easily stolen first place for me when it comes to my favorite couples. i’ve loved each one in different ways but i swear to you…there’s crack in this one LMAO. this one needs to be on your tbr - releasing in january! couldn’t recommend it more.
🌶️: 3
⭐️: 5
thank you so much to maya - i have loved being apart of this process and getting to love your characters & share teasers of them. i think that’s what makes these two so special for me. 🖤
“𝙅𝙚𝙚𝙯, 𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙥𝙚𝙧. 𝘿𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙩𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙧𝙚𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙨?”
jackson + harper, WOW.
i had the absolute pleasure of getting to read this one in bits and pieces and then altogether. i knew i was going to be obsessed with them because harper’s prickly personality is quite possibly one of my favorite things about him. let’s get into it.
meet jackson, daddy of the fake boyfriends ;) he sees his friends falling in love, settling down, and making a home in clay springs. what’s the hoopla? enter harper, the magnificent redhead who absolutely captivated him from the literal first glance with his snarky personality and glorious hair. and we can’t forget sweet honey. she detects bullshit! 🤧
i cannot express enough how much i fucking LOVE a mean ass MC x a totally whipped MC & these two are givingggg. the push and pull is so 😮💨 that the payoff is even better.
maya has done it once again, another amazing installment in the sweet southern series, but these two have easily stolen first place for me when it comes to my favorite couples. i’ve loved each one in different ways but i swear to you…there’s crack in this one LMAO. this one needs to be on your tbr - releasing in january! couldn’t recommend it more.
🌶️: 3
⭐️: 5
thank you so much to maya - i have loved being apart of this process and getting to love your characters & share teasers of them. i think that’s what makes these two so special for me. 🖤
December 31, 2024
Another great edition to this super sweet series by Maya Jean. If you love low-mild angst I would highly recommend this series.
We follow a group of best friends who are all professional sex workers. In the previous books we follow Eli and Trevor finding their men through their line of work and both men are cousins and live in this lovely small town in Florida. Jackson, through his best friends, meets prickly Harper and instantly is intrigued and wants to date him. He sticks around town in hopes of being able to get closer to Harper.
Harper is our lovable broken boy. He has epilepsy, the most perfect service dog ever, and really tries to push most people away. He is broken not because of his disability but because his family has made him feel unlovable and undeserving. He thinks there is no way Jackson could see anything worthwhile in him. Watching Jackson show him just how special he is and how he deserves the world was really beautiful.
Jackson is the best book boyfriend. The things he does for Harper, the dates he plans and the care and thought he puts into romancing his man was *chef’s kiss* This is hurt/comfort done in such a romantic way.
And their chemistry?! Virgin Harper and Daddy Jackson… yeah.
I can’t wait for the next two books in this series - I am so invested in the rest of the men.
We follow a group of best friends who are all professional sex workers. In the previous books we follow Eli and Trevor finding their men through their line of work and both men are cousins and live in this lovely small town in Florida. Jackson, through his best friends, meets prickly Harper and instantly is intrigued and wants to date him. He sticks around town in hopes of being able to get closer to Harper.
Harper is our lovable broken boy. He has epilepsy, the most perfect service dog ever, and really tries to push most people away. He is broken not because of his disability but because his family has made him feel unlovable and undeserving. He thinks there is no way Jackson could see anything worthwhile in him. Watching Jackson show him just how special he is and how he deserves the world was really beautiful.
Jackson is the best book boyfriend. The things he does for Harper, the dates he plans and the care and thought he puts into romancing his man was *chef’s kiss* This is hurt/comfort done in such a romantic way.
And their chemistry?! Virgin Harper and Daddy Jackson… yeah.
I can’t wait for the next two books in this series - I am so invested in the rest of the men.
March 6, 2025
Jackson and Harper’s story was so sweet, emotional, and just the right amount of steamy.
Jackson ends up in Clay Springs and immediately gets drawn to Harper, who is a stubborn, sharp-tongued redhead who’s convinced love isn’t in the cards for him. Harper’s epilepsy and past experiences have made him put up walls, but Jackson isn’t the type to back down easily.
Their dynamic was so good—Jackson was patient but persistent, and watching Harper slowly let him in was just beautiful. I also loved how the book handled epilepsy and Harper’s service dog in such a natural way. And, of course, the romance? Hot and kinky, but also full of heart.
This book was such a lovely mix of emotional depth, great banter, kinky and swoon-worthy moments.
Jackson ends up in Clay Springs and immediately gets drawn to Harper, who is a stubborn, sharp-tongued redhead who’s convinced love isn’t in the cards for him. Harper’s epilepsy and past experiences have made him put up walls, but Jackson isn’t the type to back down easily.
Their dynamic was so good—Jackson was patient but persistent, and watching Harper slowly let him in was just beautiful. I also loved how the book handled epilepsy and Harper’s service dog in such a natural way. And, of course, the romance? Hot and kinky, but also full of heart.
This book was such a lovely mix of emotional depth, great banter, kinky and swoon-worthy moments.
November 4, 2024
5 stars
I'll never shut up about Maya Jean's books.
I have several favourite MM authors and Maya Jean, despite she started publishing just this year, has fast become one of them: I'm sure, when I open one of her book, that I won't be disappointed and that my crave for romance will be satisfyed..
Jackson and Harper's story makes no exception: it was beautiful and heartwarming and I loved every second of it.
Both the MCs are amazing. Jackson is very experienced, self confident (in and out of the bedroom), and easygoing, he's also a very loyal and caring friend ; Harper is fiercely independent and determined, but he's very unsure and inexperienced about relationships (especially about the physical side) and his condition makes difficult for him to live his life freely.
That didn't prevent him to go living alone and to try to stay away from his overbearing mother. Thanks to his service dog and his cousins' help, Harper has built a solid routine for himself.
One thing above many I really love is how their dynamic develops: Jackson is the perfect boyfriend, very loving and supporting without making feel Harper incapable, while Harper learns to let Jackson in little by little. That was not easy because Harper's walls are high but Jackson can be so sweet and he really helps Harper to understand that he's worthy of all the love.
I agree with other reviewers when they said Maya Jean is so good at writing insecure characters: they're not whiny or in search of attention, they're just amazing guys who struggle to see their own worth.
Not spoiling anything but OH MY GOD! I did not expect to see a certain wonderful amazing man again!!! Thank you so much to the author for bringing him back!
It seems that the boys from the Agency are finding their forever home in Clay Springs, Florida, small town vibes for the win!cv
I can't wait for Benji toget his own HEA too; there are several hints about him in this story and I'm so very eager to read it.
I'll never shut up about Maya Jean's books.
I have several favourite MM authors and Maya Jean, despite she started publishing just this year, has fast become one of them: I'm sure, when I open one of her book, that I won't be disappointed and that my crave for romance will be satisfyed..
Jackson and Harper's story makes no exception: it was beautiful and heartwarming and I loved every second of it.
Both the MCs are amazing. Jackson is very experienced, self confident (in and out of the bedroom), and easygoing, he's also a very loyal and caring friend ; Harper is fiercely independent and determined, but he's very unsure and inexperienced about relationships (especially about the physical side) and his condition makes difficult for him to live his life freely.
That didn't prevent him to go living alone and to try to stay away from his overbearing mother. Thanks to his service dog and his cousins' help, Harper has built a solid routine for himself.
One thing above many I really love is how their dynamic develops: Jackson is the perfect boyfriend, very loving and supporting without making feel Harper incapable, while Harper learns to let Jackson in little by little. That was not easy because Harper's walls are high but Jackson can be so sweet and he really helps Harper to understand that he's worthy of all the love.
I agree with other reviewers when they said Maya Jean is so good at writing insecure characters: they're not whiny or in search of attention, they're just amazing guys who struggle to see their own worth.
Not spoiling anything but OH MY GOD! I did not expect to see a certain wonderful amazing man again!!! Thank you so much to the author for bringing him back!
It seems that the boys from the Agency are finding their forever home in Clay Springs, Florida, small town vibes for the win!cv
I can't wait for Benji toget his own HEA too; there are several hints about him in this story and I'm so very eager to read it.
October 27, 2024
If you know me you know some of my kryptonite tropes are: size difference, grumpy/sunshine & experienced/inexperienced. This book has all 3 so it was and easy 5 stars for me.
Harper was such an easy character to love. He has a lot of insecurity and considers himself to be a burden due to his epilepsy. He doesn’t believe that he’s worth the effort, or very deserving of love.
Luckily, Jackson disagrees wholeheartedly. Jackson is truly the perfect man. He sees Harper and sees someone a little bit sassy, a little bit cautious, but no less deserving of love than anyone else in the world. He’s enamored to say the least. His interest in Harper is met with a lot of suspicion but that doesn’t deter him at all. His mission is simply to show Harper that it’s easy to love him. It’s easy to want him because of everything that he is. There is nothing that is too much when it comes to Harper.
These two will definitely put you through it, all I wanted was for Harper to accept the love he was being given!! I loved the cameos from Trevor and Eli of course. Seeing the other Sweet Southern boys root for Harper and Jackson was so sweet!
I think was really sealed the deal for me with this couple was that it was a really intense look at how insecurities and lac of self worth can make a person feel like they are less than, and that they don’t deserve to have happiness. It was truly just a really beautiful story to see Harper learn that he’s not too much. That he is worthy of love, and that even outside of Jackson he has so many people who care about him.
Harper was such an easy character to love. He has a lot of insecurity and considers himself to be a burden due to his epilepsy. He doesn’t believe that he’s worth the effort, or very deserving of love.
Luckily, Jackson disagrees wholeheartedly. Jackson is truly the perfect man. He sees Harper and sees someone a little bit sassy, a little bit cautious, but no less deserving of love than anyone else in the world. He’s enamored to say the least. His interest in Harper is met with a lot of suspicion but that doesn’t deter him at all. His mission is simply to show Harper that it’s easy to love him. It’s easy to want him because of everything that he is. There is nothing that is too much when it comes to Harper.
These two will definitely put you through it, all I wanted was for Harper to accept the love he was being given!! I loved the cameos from Trevor and Eli of course. Seeing the other Sweet Southern boys root for Harper and Jackson was so sweet!
I think was really sealed the deal for me with this couple was that it was a really intense look at how insecurities and lac of self worth can make a person feel like they are less than, and that they don’t deserve to have happiness. It was truly just a really beautiful story to see Harper learn that he’s not too much. That he is worthy of love, and that even outside of Jackson he has so many people who care about him.
December 12, 2024
The Remarkable Lover is book three in the Sweet Southern series. This MM romance story is about Harper and Jackson.
I really enjoyed Harper and Jackson’s story, and I have to say they are my favorite couple so far in this series. I couldn’t help but fall in love with both of them. My heart went out to Harper with his medical condition and his insecurities. He thought of himself as a burden so his walls were high. Harper tried to push Jackson away, but thank goodness Jackson never gave up. Jackson was the perfect man and exactly what Harper needed. I loved all of their sweet moments together and I couldn’t get enough of their spicy ones. This was such a beautiful story and I loved how Jackson was able to show Harper he was worthy of love.
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
I really enjoyed Harper and Jackson’s story, and I have to say they are my favorite couple so far in this series. I couldn’t help but fall in love with both of them. My heart went out to Harper with his medical condition and his insecurities. He thought of himself as a burden so his walls were high. Harper tried to push Jackson away, but thank goodness Jackson never gave up. Jackson was the perfect man and exactly what Harper needed. I loved all of their sweet moments together and I couldn’t get enough of their spicy ones. This was such a beautiful story and I loved how Jackson was able to show Harper he was worthy of love.
I received an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
January 8, 2025
"You are so beautiful."
"So you've said."
"Perfect."
"Shut up."
"I'd burn the world for you."
"I'm going to murder you and no one will find your body."
Harper and Jackson certainly know how to express their love for each other😂🥺
All in all this was really nice, but I had some issues with the way their characterizations seemed to change whenever a new issue/subplot was introduced and would venture i to the melodramatic and I feel like we went from Harper "hating" Jackson to wanting everything with him without enough on-page development of that shift that happened within like two pages. Also the whole "daddy" thing didn't work for me with the way Harper and Jackson were portrayed and the way it wasn't fleshed out more but also not dropped and just awkwardly hung there above them in some intimate scenes (but that's just personal preference, not the book).
Still, Honey alone deserves 5 stars 🐶🐶
"So you've said."
"Perfect."
"Shut up."
"I'd burn the world for you."
"I'm going to murder you and no one will find your body."
Harper and Jackson certainly know how to express their love for each other😂🥺
All in all this was really nice, but I had some issues with the way their characterizations seemed to change whenever a new issue/subplot was introduced and would venture i to the melodramatic and I feel like we went from Harper "hating" Jackson to wanting everything with him without enough on-page development of that shift that happened within like two pages. Also the whole "daddy" thing didn't work for me with the way Harper and Jackson were portrayed and the way it wasn't fleshed out more but also not dropped and just awkwardly hung there above them in some intimate scenes (but that's just personal preference, not the book).
Still, Honey alone deserves 5 stars 🐶🐶
December 12, 2024
arc review
i would very much like to have harper as my bestie. he has captured my heart like no other. This is book three of the sweet southern series, which without a doubt has snuck its way into my top space of this series because i was not expecting the amount i would adore both of these characters.
harper + jackson are the perfect combo and the most endearing read, like level 10 swoon and i will never not be over them.
harper is prickly, sarcastic and fluent in pretending that he doesn’t want nor need anyone to look out for him. He is someone that has been dealt a difficult hand in life and is trying to make do with the cards he’s got but that does in-fact make him a bit standoffish to everyone he tends to come into contact with, especially a 6ft something ex basketball player who quickly become fascinated with his quick wit, foul mouth and zero tolerance attitude.
jackson, the man has the patience of a saint. i adored jackson with my entire heart, boyfriend of the century goes to this guy bc the love, care, tenderness, understanding and time he has for everyone he meets is undoubtedly the sweetest features of this story especially when it’s aimed at harper.
harper is protective of his fragile heart and doesn’t trust easily so jackson has to work extra hard to get the guy but boy he does. i really loved this book, as i do with all the previous but something just hit me in the feels a little more with these two and i think what gets me most is the list. iykyk, the list will forever floor me, just perfection <3
maya has a beautiful way with words and i love the world she has created with these beautiful men, side characters and all the found family feels.
i would very much like to have harper as my bestie. he has captured my heart like no other. This is book three of the sweet southern series, which without a doubt has snuck its way into my top space of this series because i was not expecting the amount i would adore both of these characters.
harper + jackson are the perfect combo and the most endearing read, like level 10 swoon and i will never not be over them.
harper is prickly, sarcastic and fluent in pretending that he doesn’t want nor need anyone to look out for him. He is someone that has been dealt a difficult hand in life and is trying to make do with the cards he’s got but that does in-fact make him a bit standoffish to everyone he tends to come into contact with, especially a 6ft something ex basketball player who quickly become fascinated with his quick wit, foul mouth and zero tolerance attitude.
jackson, the man has the patience of a saint. i adored jackson with my entire heart, boyfriend of the century goes to this guy bc the love, care, tenderness, understanding and time he has for everyone he meets is undoubtedly the sweetest features of this story especially when it’s aimed at harper.
harper is protective of his fragile heart and doesn’t trust easily so jackson has to work extra hard to get the guy but boy he does. i really loved this book, as i do with all the previous but something just hit me in the feels a little more with these two and i think what gets me most is the list. iykyk, the list will forever floor me, just perfection <3
maya has a beautiful way with words and i love the world she has created with these beautiful men, side characters and all the found family feels.
January 19, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
December 15, 2024
i absolutely adore this freaking series and Jackson and Harper are my favorite couple so far! If you look up “the perfect boyfriend” Jackson’s name would be right there. that man worships then ground Harper walks on and it’s the sweetest thing! and Harper.. i LOVED him the most. his sassy attitude and one liners were giving me so much life and i loved seeing him learn that he deserved all the love from this man. this book had me swooning and crying at the same time. ugh it’s just soo good! another stunning story by my girl Maya. can’t wait for the next one 🥰
January 1, 2025
I've ADORED the first two books of this series and Maya was my Hurt/Comfort queen. Harper and Jackson were hinted on heavily in the last books and I really was looking forward, especially reading about grumpy Harper and the Epilepsy rep. And this was really good, I loved the rep, I loved how it was explained and Honey, Harper's service dog, really is a fur angel. And I also really understood Harper's need for independence, after being hushed over his whole life and feeling belittled by everyone. So his grumpiness and brattiness definitely had its right to exist, but at some point I couldn't really understand it anymore and it got on my nerves a bit. Then there's Jackson, an almost surreally good human being, completely convinced to make life better for Harper. The things Jackson did for Harper were gorgeous and this book really is perfect for anyone who loves the sort of caring but not overbearing/parenting trope in romance, this really was done beautifully.
Jackson as a character was a bit flat, yes, he lost his dream career, but there's basically nothing more we know about his motifs and his insta-love towards Harper besides Harper being beautiful. This sounds a bit harsh, and the book was by far not bad, but the characters lacked a bit of depth and evolvement throughout the book, so I missed a bit of a felt connection towards the characters, which is something I probably would be fine with in other books, but my expectations regarding Maya's absolutely gorgeous and deep previous books were too high for this one I guess, and that's totally on me. But this is cherry picking in criticism, because I'm sure this would have been fine in a lot of other books - but I've expected so much of my hurt/comfort queen (The first two books of this series are yearly, if not more, highlights for me), it might have been too much.
A scene towards the ending I highly anticipated for resolving a kind of conflict brought tears to my eyes and was really beautiful, even if I wished for those two characters to get a deeper resolving or journey together.
But the topic of being a burden was so so beautifully explored, and the dedication was already so so sweet ("To all those who believe themselves a burden, Spoiler alert: you’re not.").
In summary, it is a beautiful healing/care-taking book, if this is the expectation you're going in with.
⭐️ Why it wasn't 5 stars for me ⭐️
- Daddy kink that is in the CNs as "losing the term "daddy" loosely during sex but NO daddy kink"
- I expected a bit deeper characters and more hurt in this comfort considering Maya's previous books, and that's totally on me!
- Instalove just because Harper's beautiful and interesting through his stubbornness
Jackson as a character was a bit flat, yes, he lost his dream career, but there's basically nothing more we know about his motifs and his insta-love towards Harper besides Harper being beautiful. This sounds a bit harsh, and the book was by far not bad, but the characters lacked a bit of depth and evolvement throughout the book, so I missed a bit of a felt connection towards the characters, which is something I probably would be fine with in other books, but my expectations regarding Maya's absolutely gorgeous and deep previous books were too high for this one I guess, and that's totally on me. But this is cherry picking in criticism, because I'm sure this would have been fine in a lot of other books - but I've expected so much of my hurt/comfort queen (The first two books of this series are yearly, if not more, highlights for me), it might have been too much.
A scene towards the ending I highly anticipated for resolving a kind of conflict brought tears to my eyes and was really beautiful, even if I wished for those two characters to get a deeper resolving or journey together.
But the topic of being a burden was so so beautifully explored, and the dedication was already so so sweet ("To all those who believe themselves a burden, Spoiler alert: you’re not.").
In summary, it is a beautiful healing/care-taking book, if this is the expectation you're going in with.
⭐️ Why it wasn't 5 stars for me ⭐️
- Daddy kink that is in the CNs as "losing the term "daddy" loosely during sex but NO daddy kink"
- I expected a bit deeper characters and more hurt in this comfort considering Maya's previous books, and that's totally on me!
- Instalove just because Harper's beautiful and interesting through his stubbornness
Read
July 24, 2025***no rating***
dropped @35%
There is nothing wrong with this book. It’s just not for me.
It’s sweet and slow, in a small-town setting. A combo that rarely works for me when I'm not in a specific mood. I obvs wasn't.
***************
Sweet Southern Series
Book 1 - The Husband Experience - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - The Former Fake Boyfriend - 4.25 stars
Book 3 - The Remarkable Lover - dropped
Book 4 - The Long Refrain
dropped @35%
There is nothing wrong with this book. It’s just not for me.
It’s sweet and slow, in a small-town setting. A combo that rarely works for me when I'm not in a specific mood. I obvs wasn't.
***************
Sweet Southern Series
Book 1 - The Husband Experience - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - The Former Fake Boyfriend - 4.25 stars
Book 3 - The Remarkable Lover - dropped
Book 4 - The Long Refrain
January 5, 2025
4.25/5 stars! This is the third book in the Sweet Southern series by author Maya Jean. This is my favorite book by this author I have read. There's a sensitivity and sweetness to Jackson. I am obsessed with him. The way a health condition like epilepsy was handled was perfection as well. You can tell the author did so much research to make it both honest but gentle. I really hope we get to see more of them in the next book; a guest appearance maybe.
January 8, 2025
ARC review
It was a good book, I liked it.
Jackson was the sweetest. He liked Harper and he did everything he could to show him that. Even when Harper pushed him away, he didn't let that deter him. He was there to stay.
Harper felt like he was a burden to the people in his life and he didn't want that for Jackson.
I was so glad when Harper finally accepted Jackson's love and let himself fall in love with him too.
They complemented each other very nicely
It was a good book, I liked it.
Jackson was the sweetest. He liked Harper and he did everything he could to show him that. Even when Harper pushed him away, he didn't let that deter him. He was there to stay.
Harper felt like he was a burden to the people in his life and he didn't want that for Jackson.
I was so glad when Harper finally accepted Jackson's love and let himself fall in love with him too.
They complemented each other very nicely
Read
January 16, 2025RTC
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