Counting the Stars

Starboard Beach #2

by Tracy McJames

Sometimes love comes when you least expect it.

Alex

I fell in love from the first moment I met her—seriously.

And yeah, I realize that may sound ridiculous, but I’ve never been so sure of anything in my life.

Gabby is one of my best friends. She gets me and accepts me for who I am; unlike my stuffy family. But we’ve been stuck in the friend zone for more than a year and I’m getting restless.

Though she insists she’s not interested, her actions speak otherwise and I know she wants me too.

When my buddy offers dating advice, I take it and run. It’s time to check things off my list and make Gabby realize we’re meant to be together.

Gabby

I’ve sworn off relationships forever—end of story.

My world came crashing down over a decade ago and I can’t endure the pain of losing anyone else…especially Alex.

He’s like a magnet. No matter how hard I try to reject him, I simply can’t stay away.

I know he won’t be single forever and we’d be perfect for one another, which makes things worse. My friends think I should let him in and give what we have a try.

But I’m scared to death I’ll lose him too.


While this is book two of the series, it can be read as a standalone.

Trigger Overtones of grief/loss and a small (not overly descriptive) violent scene. There is a guaranteed happily ever after.

Genres: Friends To Lovers, Romance, Romantic Comedy

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 3, 2024

Reviews

[Dawn Griffith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Counting the Stars is one of those books that grabs you right by the heart and doesn’t let go. Tracy McJames takes the timeless friends-to-lovers trope and fills it with so much depth and tenderness that it feels brand new.

Gabby and Alex’s story is sweet, soulful, and just the right amount of slow burn. Gabby’s journey, with her deep-seated fears and commitment struggles, is so moving and real. Her trauma feels tenderly handled, making her hesitation toward love feel authentic and heartbreakingly relatable. And then there’s Alex, the fireman with a heart of gold who’s been holding a quiet torch for her, waiting ever so patiently. His love is the kind that everyone dreams of—steadfast, caring, and full of quiet strength. Watching him gently pull Gabby out of her shell is like watching a flower bloom.

Plus, the found family element here adds so much warmth, with friends who act more like family and give these two the support they so deserve. Every side character brings something special, reminding us that sometimes our chosen family are the ones who lift us up the most. The dual POV works perfectly here, letting us see both Gabby’s fears and Alex’s unwavering love and determination.

This is one of those sweet, heartfelt stories that’s gentle on the spice but heavy on the emotional impact. If you’re a fan of slow-burn romances with a beautiful, healing touch, Counting the Stars will be a keeper on your shelf. It’s a love story about patience, trust, and the bravery it takes to find love—even if you’ve been hurt before. ✨

Thanks to Tracy McJames for allowing me to receive the ARC.

[Carrie LeBlanc · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest review. This is the first time I have read a book by Tracy McJames, and this is the second book in The Starboard beach Series. This book can definitely be read as a standalone as I did. It follows our MMC Alex and FMC Gabby. Gabby is new to Starboard beach. Alex and Gabby meet when he comes to her rescue and from that moment on he only has eyes for her. Gabby and Alex are a slow burn, they have great chemistry and banter that takes them the distance. We get introduced to a whole host of characters that are their friends that makes you eager to read their stories as they come in the series because Tracy gives you just enough to keep you wanting more and to learn more about them too. The banter, found family, friends to lovers, close proximity are all there. It was well written and hooked me in from the very start. This book does touch on topics of grief, loss, toxic family, and assault.

[Kayla Garman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited for this book because while reading When Our Stars Aligned, Alex was certainly my favorite Starboard beach guy. He’s the perfect golden retriever MMC.

Speaking of When Our Stars Aligned, I absolutely love getting to see Jax and Aly’s story continue, and appreciate that they were continuing characters in this story.

The FRIENDS vibe continues in this second SBB novel. It carries the traditional fundamental theme of that big “aligning of the stars” moment that book #1 had. And even though this second book shared that same theme, Tracy writes it in a completely new and exciting way that doesn’t feel repetitive.

This book is another slow burn, HEA, with no spice, but pure love and romance, friends to lovers, and beautiful found family.

I loved the difference in family dynamic between Alex and Gabby. They both come from different worlds. Large close family vs lack of family and yet they’re both still so alone, and give each other that missing piece. I absolutely loved Alex’s sister Lilli. She was a character that is absolutely necessary to the story even though it probably could’ve been written without her.

I read this story in less than 24 hours. The flow, the writing and the passion of these characters is ever flowing. The banter and whit from the first novel goes even stronger with this one. It has laughter, heartache, and promise.

I can’t wait for more Starboard Beach. Michelle & Carter next please!

[Taylah Box · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how Alex kept trying to be with Gabby through everything, and I loved how Gabby was there for Alex when he was dealing with family drama, I definitely recommend this book

[❤️Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had several different feels. Alex is adorable. He's goofy, hard working, and sweet. Gabby would be someone I could be best friends with. I'm glad she was able to open up about her past and her fears. I was not expecting part of that ending.

[nerdy.bibliomaniac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Tracy McJames for the ARC of her second novel in her Starboard Beach series, all opinions etc are my own.

I loved this book, pulled right at my heartstrings and yeah I welled up. We already know I am a sap, I don’t hide that.

Alex, our MMC, I adored him as a SC in the first book and love him from the second one. Golden retriever with a heart of gold and loved Gabby from day 1. Firefighter, jokester, and overall green flag.

Gabby, guarded and reserved, used to doing everything by herself for herself. Significant loss and no support system can do that, finds she has found her family and her North Pole.

Found family, no third add breakup, amusing dialogue and overall a wonderful story.

Cannot wait for the next one Tracy! I can assume who it will be about, but also…will Travis get a HEA too? Pretty please.

P.S. Apple pie is still better than pumpkin. 🤣

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐
1🌶

Happy Release day! Thank you for the ARC Tracy!

I am so happy to be back in the world of 3rd East! I just love the huge found family theme in this series and I feel at home reading about this group of friends. I was totally enraptured by Gabby & Alex. They are both very lovable characters. I really loved the slow burn of their story. Gabby was very relatable with her fears and commitment issues, it was refreshing to read about. Alex is the lovable, goofy golden retriever we all love reading about and his love for Gabby shows so strongly. The supporting characters are also so so amazing in this series and I love when I can fall in love with them as well as the MC's.

Tracy's writing is so fluid and captures you from the beginning and it continues to blow me away after reading book 2 in the Starboard Beach Series. I was hoping this would be Carter & Michelle's story but PLEASE let theirs be next!!

If you love the following Tropes, this book is for you

✨️Found family
✨️HEA
✨️Firefighter
✨️Slow burn
✨️He falls first

[Courtney Seeley courtney_isreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ARC REVIEW⭐️
Title: Counting The Stars
Author: Tracy McJames @tracymcjamesbooks
Pub Date: 12/3/2024
⭐️ Rating: 5⭐️
🌶️ Rating: 1🌶️

———————————————————————————

First of all, thank you Tracy for letting me read this book early! I freaking LOVED it. I blew through it so fast and honestly I’m upset, because I need more. I haven’t laughed so hard at a book in such a long time, I was dying and my husband thought there was something wrong with me. 😂

Alex and Gabby are literally amazing together. Their banter is top tier. He’s such a golden retriever that you immediately fall in love with him. Literally as soon as you meet him. Gabby has trauma from her past, that she has kept to herself for literal years. And she’s afraid to get too close to anyone, for fear of losing them. Alex is literally her other half, he’s the glue that holds her together through everything.

The humor in this one, is next level. I literally couldn’t deal yall. The names that Tracy comes up with for a certain character had me rolling. And the poor puppy dog 😂 I can’t say anymore or I’m gonna give too much away. Just read the book. Lol

I loved this book, so freaking much. I can’t wait to get my hands on the physical copy, because can we talk about how freaking pretty that cover is!?

[Bailey Peloquin(Baileys.fully.booked) · Rating 5 out of 5]

EEEEK (kicking my feet in excitement) 😍 This read gave me lots of laughs, made me feel anxious for a moment, sad for a split second but then made me smile ear to ear. True HEA story. I am absolutely obsessed with the main characters Alex and Gabby. I am a firm believer that the love of your life should be your best friend and that’s what Alex and Gabby are. I love how their relationship starts as best friends and grows into something more. The detail put into the characters makes you feel like you know them in real life. The way Alex loves Gabby is every girls dream. The comedy in this story had me chuckling out loud - the nicknames for proctologist Josh, the bashful bladder, “stinky”, Alex’s dirty gutter brain. These scenes had me rolling. I wish there was more about Miss. Ruby as she reminds me of my own grandma but she was included in the story, perfectly. I love the friendships that were included in this book as well. When a male friend helped deliver a female friend’s baby and how it was explained in the story was sweet. I was so sad when I got to 96% finished knowing that this book was going to end; I didn’t want this story to end. 5 hours later and I’m still thinking about this book. ❤️

[Heather Mynx · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ☆ rounded to 5.

I'm a couple of days late posting this cause when I realized it was technically Book 2, I had to read Book 1 first. I'm happy I did cause there are references to the characters from Book 1, and even though both can be read as standalones, I love when characters from previous books show up in the next one and knowing their full stories. Both books were so freaking sweet and left me with warm, fuzzy feelings after reading them.

I loved Alex's character, and the things he would say made me laugh so many times, and I loathed his awful family. Gabby's grief and trauma were so real, and I loved seeing Gabby opening up to Alex and her friends and seeing their relationship change from friends to more as she finally lets herself heal.

Once again, my heart goes out to Travis. His story is so heartbreaking, and I really do hope he finds his HEA in a future book.

This was such a good heartwarming romcom, and I definitely recommend. ❤️

Bonus: After reading both books, I got a craving to try pepperoni pineapple pizza cause of Jax. It was surprisingly good and a really good balance of sweet and salty. I normally don't get pineapple on my pizza cause it's usually too sweet for me. 😆

My many thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this!!

[Amanda Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Counting the Stars by Tracy McJames
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

After absolutely loving the first book in The Starboard Beach series, I knew I would adore this one as well! Alex was one of my favorite characters in the first book, thanks to his humor, happy-go-lucky personality, and kind friendship. I was excited to read his story. His upbringing significantly influences how he views relationships and the people he considers family. Additionally, his unwavering love for Gabby was both amusing and sweet.

Gabby, on the other hand, has endured the trauma of losing her family, which has made her hold on to guilt and prevented her from truly opening up to others. This is why she initially declines Alex's multiple proposals. However, after learning to discuss her family with her chosen family, she begins to embrace the love she deserves. As a result, her relationship with Alex flourishes into something beautiful, and it is amazing to witness their growth as a reader.

Tracy's ability to write these characters makes you feel as though you are right there with them on their adventures. It's truly special.

[Drea · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.8⭐️

Counting the Stars
Author: Tracy McJames
Ralease date: December 3rd, 2024 on Amazon and KU!💫

I was sent an ARC copy of this book by Tracy McJames, thank you so much for the opportunity!

Tropes:
✨ Slow burn
✨ Friends to lovers
✨ Found family
✨ Firefighter MMC
✨ Rom-Com

Counting the Stars by Tracy McJames is the perfect book if you want to read a friends to lovers rom-com🩷 This is the second book of the Starboard Beach series, and it follows our nurse, Gabby, and our firefighter, Alex, on their relationship.

This book was filled with so many tender and heartwarming moments, that when I tell you i devoured it in a day, I think all I can say is I loved it. The character development in this book, was chefs kiss. The way we read how Gabby starts to overcome her fear and how Alex is always with her, by her side to let her know that everything is going to be alright, was just beautiful🥰 The chemistry that both of them have, and the way they balance each other out, perfection!

Please be sure to check out Counting the Stars by Tracy McJames, as soon as December 3rd hits! Again, it will be available on Amazon and KU! Be sure to check out her first book also, When The Stars Aligned, available on Amazon and KU, now!

[Dori Rolon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a very enjoyable read. I loved the banter between Alex and Gabby. Honestly I had a feeling all would work out in the end. But that's generally what happens with almost all romance books. There were several points throughout this book where I was almost crying because there were many emotional ups & downs. I 😘 love that we get pictures of Alex's story as well as Gabby's stories. It helps us to see where they are coming from and what has made them who they are today. I was excited to find out there is another book before this one with Aly & Jax. That is going on my TBR! I believe soon we are going to get the story of Carter & Maddie ( I think that is her name). All I know for sure is I loved this story about friends and family. Looking forward to more!! 😉

[Melissa Wilks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Counting the Stars is book 2 in the Starboard Beach Series by Tracy McJames which is now available on Amazon

Warnings/Triggers include:
Death of family members ,
grief
Assault (not by MC)


In counting the stars we have Love sick mmc Alex and our beautiful Resilient fmc Gabby (Gabriella). For over a year Alex, a fire-fighter has pined for Gabby, a nurse. Unfortunately Gabby is very strict on not wanting to date due to losing her family and not wanting to lose anyone else. In the end the 2 come together finally and have their HEA.

I've rated this book 4 🌟's with 1 🌶 rating
COUNTING THE STARS was released 3rd Decemver 2024

Thankyou for the eARC and opportunity to read and review this amazing book

[Imperfect.reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two of the Starboard Beach Series but can be read as a standalone. I just love the world that Tracy has created and the big laugh out loud moments that will have you rolling on the floor. The 3rd East Crew has burrowed their way into my heart. I adored these books.

Alex first meets Gabby after she locks herself out of her car outside their apartment building. Alex decides right then and there that Gabby is the one for him. Gabby on the other hand has different plans.

This book has all the feels. I was laughing, crying and dying of secondhand embarrassment at times. Alex is so sweet, lovable and always there for Gabby. Gabby is battling her own personal trauma and keeps Alex at arms length but Alex is persistent, patient and kind. He is able to help Gabby overcome her heartache and trauma and it was a beautiful journey.

What you can expect:
💜 Friends to Lovers
✨Rom-Com
💜 Slow burn
✨Golden Retriever MMC
💜 Found Family
✨ Lots of Banter
💜 HEA

[Lizzy L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion: First of this is the 2nd book in The Starboard Beach Series but it can be read as a standalone which I did, and I really enjoyed it.

It was funny and heart touching, Alex the MMC is a golden retriever who loves Gabby our FMC and would do anything for her. Gabby is crazy about Alex but scare to lose him!

It’s slow burn , Rom-Com, friends to lovers
I totally recommend it!

Rating: 3.75 ⭐️

[Bnanarose_reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved every second of this story. It's the perfect continuation of the journey for the Starboard Beach residents of 3rd East. Gabby gives you hope you can overcome fear and anxiety no matter how big or small. Alex is the perfect mix of goofy and supportive. Such a light, warm, cozy read.

[Amanda babcock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this as an arc and I loved this book it was a easy read for me and I can’t wait to read more from her

[MoreThanAPrettyCover · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so freaking excited to read the next book in this series, book 1 has been one of my favorite Rom-Coms of the year. And this one did not disappoint!

We're back with the 3rd East crew this time with Gabby and Alex. Gabby was the new roommate last time and this time we get to learn her background. And let me tell you, this girl is a fighter.

Alex is a big ol' teddy bear with a heart of gold. He has so much love to give and it was beautiful watching these two navigate their friendship into something more.

I laughed, I cried, I swooned, and I cheered. This one gave all the feelings and I couldn't recommend it more

[Julie Mithun · Rating 4 out of 5]

Counting the Stars is a very enjoyable book. I haven’t read the first in the series but is not needed to get completely consumed by this book. I loved the connection between Gabby and Alex and the patience Alex had with Gabby is top notch. This was a very good friends to lovers book as it took you on their journey beautifully.

[Rebekah Penn · Rating 5 out of 5]

First I want to thank Tracy for allowing me to receive an ARC of her second book. Tracy did it again! She has a way of grasping you within the first few words of her books and bringing you into such a captivating world.

Alex and Gabby have my heart, holy cow. Their story is absolutely amazing. While this book has your typical friends-to-lovers trope, she takes it and dives deeper with it and gives a fresh new feel. The fears and struggles of commitment that Gabby feels is so well written and handled with grace and tender love. I love the way Alex, while he has held a torch for Gabby for a long time, he waits patiently for her while watching her grow and bloom out of her shell.

The found family that is in this book, as well as the first book, is absolutely beautiful and brings so much warmth and joy to my heart. Family doesn't have to always be blood and this book really shows that. I absolutely cannot wait for her third book and see where all of the stories take us.

Just remember to always take time to slow down and count the stars ✨

[Smutty Professor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Counting the Stars by Tracy McJames is a beautifully written and emotional journey of love, healing, and overcoming trauma. Alex and Gabby’s friendship is genuine and built on a foundation of mutual care which makes their transition from friends to lovers all the more satisfying. Alex, with his golden retriever energy is the kind of partner everyone dreams of. His consistency in helping Gabby heal and trust again is top notch and his patience and tenderness make him an unforgettable character. For me, consistency is the most importnt thing in a relationship, so it made every moment of their slow-burn romance even more rewarding.

Gabby’s journey is raw, real, and relatable. Her trauma and the pain she holds onto make it difficult for her to open her heart even though she is undeniably drawn to Alex. Watching her grow, find trust, and embrace the love she deserves is an emotional rollercoaster and I couldn’t help but root for her every step of the way. The way Tracy McJames handles Gabby’s healing process is absolutely beautiful and it makes her eventual happiness with Alex that much more deserved.

The banter between the characters is top-tier, with laugh-out-loud moments and lighthearted fun woven perfectly into the emotional depth of the story. The slow burn builds intensity and by the time Alex and Gabby finally come together, it feels like the culmination of everything they've gone through. The found family element is equally heartwarming, with Alex’s close-knit group of friends providing the kind of unwavering support and loyalty that brings so much warmth to the story.

What stands out is the relatability of this story for anyone who has experienced heartbreak. This is a journey- one that’s built on trust, emotional vulnerability, and the courage to love again. The blend of humor, heartache, and hope made Counting the Stars a book I couldn’t put down. If you love slow-burn romances with emotional depth, authentic character growth, and a guaranteed HEA, this book is an absolute must-read. I can’t wait to get my hands on the physical copy, not just for the story, but also for that gorgeous cover!

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 🌶️🌶️

From the moment Alex met Gabby he knew she was the one. Though they are neighbors and close friends, convincing her of their potential proves more difficult than he initially thought.

Counting the Stars is a light hearted and fun read that gives you all the warm fuzzies. 🥰 I felt like there could have been a little more depth to both the story and some of the characters, but for a feel good romance it hit the spot!

I thought the FMC was well done. She’s been through some serious trauma. Which explains how she came to be the person she is and why she makes certain choices. That made her extremely empathetic and relatable. The MMC is super cute. BUT a little over the top with his behavior. It came across immature and obnoxiously positive. But I’m a chronic pessimist so maybe it’s just me. 😂 He definitely falls first and hard. And I do love how he keeps trying because he truly knows she’s the one for him. 🥵

The story itself was cute, though a little rushed at times. And I don’t really care for time jumps. However, I understand that she needed to keep the story moving in order to provide certain context. It is also not an overly spicy book. Choosing to focus on more of an actual storyline. 👏

The supporting characters that she has created are always entertaining. The group that they have is more like a family and their interactions are at times both cute and awkward. 😂 Much like real life.

I really enjoy Tracy McJames’ books. Her writing is well thought out and intentional. There is variety and description without being unnecessary. I have a huge quibble with repetitive imagery or phrases—I know that I won’t have that issue in her stories. 👍 She is clearly a skilled writer.

I’m very excited to read the next book in the series. I HAVE to know what going on with Carter and Michelle. Or Travis! 😭

Thank you for providing me an ARC. It’s an honor to be a part of the process!

[Beverley Chance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Counting the Stars by Tracy McJames: A Heartfelt Journey of Love and Friendship

"Counting the Stars" by Tracy McJames is a beautifully woven tale of love, friendship, and the complexities of human emotions. The story revolves around Alex and Gabby, two best friends who navigate the delicate balance between love and friendship.

From the very first page, I was drawn into Alex's passionate and unwavering love for Gabby. His determination to break free from the "friend zone" and prove his love is both heartwarming and relatable. Alex's sincerity and vulnerability make him an endearing character that readers will root for.

Gabby's story, on the other hand, is a poignant exploration of fear and loss. Her struggle to let Alex in, despite her feelings, adds a layer of depth to the narrative. The internal conflict she faces, torn between her past trauma and the possibility of a future with Alex, is compelling and heartbreaking.

One of the most commendable aspects of the book is its depiction of love without the need for explicit scenes. Tracy McJames manages to convey the depth and intensity of Alex and Gabby's connection through their emotional journey and genuine bond. It is refreshing to see a story that focuses on the strength of their friendship and love.

Tracy McJames does an excellent job of capturing the essence of true friendship and the challenges of transitioning into a romantic relationship. The characters are well-developed, and their emotions are palpable, making it easy for readers to empathize with their journey.

"Counting the Stars" is a testament to the power of love and the courage it takes to face one's fears. It's a touching story that will leave readers reflecting on their own relationships and the risks they are willing to take for love.

[Lindsay Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! This is the 2nd book in the Starboard Beach series. So far the 1st book is my favorite. The 2 main characters are Gabby & Alex but their friends from the 1st book are all back. Gabby lost her family at 16 in a tragic way and has been carrying the hurt & guilt with her. She’s a nurse at the local hospital and for the most part is very set in her ways & guards her heart because she doesn’t feel like she can survive another loss. She is roommates with Michelle & Alex & Carter are roommates across the hall from the girls. Jax & Aly live next to Alex & Carter. Think of the show Friends and how they are revolving doors for this group of friends on 3 East. Alex is a firefighter/paramedic goofball who is constantly professing his love to Gabby and always coming to her rescue. Since she seems to lock her keys in the car frequently & occasionally go on dates where the “Butt Doctor” gets so drunk he literally face plants into his dinner. Both Alex & Gabby have feelings for each other but will she let her guard down? And will Alex pump the breaks and quit proposing to her daily? The banter between these two is hilarious! This is a slow burn, rom-com, he falls first, friends to lovers, found family, & with a golden retriever MMC. I highly recommend both books in the series & I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series.
Overall Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Spice Rating- 🌶️🌶️/5
I received this book as an ARC and was asked to leave an honest review of the book. Thank you to the author @tracymcjamesbooks for the opportunity.

[Jamie Dean · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Book Review✨
Counting the Stars by @tracymcjamesbooks
Coming out 12/3/24

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️

Words cannot express how much I enjoy these characters. They are so fun and the banter is right on. Reminds me of the tv show Friends ( hope you like that show Tracy 😅)

The next door neighbors that are so comfortable with each other that they don’t lock their doors, the guys come over for dinner and then do the dishes.

Gabby moves to the small town of Starboard Beach where she quickly learns who her knight in shining armor is when she locks her keys in her car her first day at her new place, and he is right there to help her. Unfortunately she has some childhood trauma that tells her she could never get close to anyone.

Alex, firefighter, and former ladies man (have I said how much I love reformed payer🫠) can’t get Gabby out of his head after he first helps her when she locks her keys in her car. And now that they are neighbors, he can’t help himself with the flirting, and trying to get her attention as more than friends. So much so that he hasn’t been able to look at anyone else since.

The banter and flirting and sweetness between these two had me smiling through the whole book

I’ve also never been so mad at certain characters before as well. (Not main characters)

Thanks for all the emotions in this one, and thanks for trusting me to arc read for you 🥰

✨rom-com
✨friends to lovers
✨found family
✨slow burn
✨banter
✨firefighter MMC

[Jaein · Rating 1 out of 5]

Rating:
⭐️ - 1/5 DNF

I am genuinely saddened to leave a 1/5 and DNF review for this book, especially after absolutely loving the first book in the Starboard Beach series (which I was an ARC reader for and rated 5/5). I waited patiently for this sequel for the longest time, so imagine my excitement when it finally came out, especially after taking a year break from reading. But that only made the letdown bigger.

I ultimately put the book down at the 36% mark because I felt zero progress in the plot. 36% in, and the story felt exactly the same as the starting point. The central conflict revolves around the FMC, Gabby, having a past that prevents her from pursuing a relationship with MMC, Alex. The problem is, 36% into the book, we still have absolutely no indication of what that past is, making her reluctance feel frustratingly vague rather than intriguing.

It might be a personal issue, but I also struggled to reconnect with the characters from book 1, only starting to connect them after about 10% into the book.

What really lacks is their chemistry. The first book was filled with energy between the leads, but this sequel felt disappointing in comparison. The spark just wasn't there for me.

This book failed to give me the same feeling as book 1. The lack of progression and the endless teasing of an unknown past becomes too much. This made me doubt whether I should even look forward to book 3 now.

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐️

Thank you to the author for the ARC, this book was amazing. I learned it was the second book of a series and immediately started that one and loved it.

Alex is such a goof and I love it. Gabby is so sweet and I wish she were my bestie.

Alex has been in love with Gabby since she’s arrived at Starboard Beach. He’s proposed multiple times over the simplest things and is learning that in order to convey his true feelings he has to get serious about it. Him and his friends come up with a list to make Gabby his wife, will it fail or be a success?

Gabby’s got a somber past behind her, the very big reason she’s remained single for so long. Alex is her best friend and she’d do anything for him. Can she keep her feelings at bay or will she get over her fears and finally accept that you can’t control the future, but you can live in the present?

This book was so cute and adorable, honestly Alex’s parents are tasteless because those two are amazing and they have no idea what they’re missing out on. Honestly, Gabby’s probably one of the most relatable characters I’ve ever read. Bashful bladder? Check. Try to hide your feelings because of a chance of doom? Check. I just love these two and they’re so perfect together.

Tropes:
•Friends to Lovers
•Golden Retriever MMC
•Found Family
•Banter
•Slow Burn
•Firefighter MMC x Nurse FMC
•Rom Com

~ARC Review

[Ginny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet, heartfelt friends to lovers story

What a terrific follow up to her debut. This is book 2 of the Starboard Beach Series but can be read as a standalone. This is the story of Gabby and Alex. Gabby was orphaned as a teenager and worked hard to put herself through school and moved across the country for a fresh start. She has learned to depend on herself and keeps walls up to protect herself from being hurt again. Alex takes a job as a firefighter far away enough from home to avoid being connected to his famous family. A family that doesn’t approve of his choices. While coming from different circumstances, these two have a definite connection.

I loved their story. Alex is the ultimate golden retriever MMC. He falls first and is determined to break down Gabby’s walls, no matter how long it takes. Gabby blossoms as the story goes on. She finds her strength to overcome past fears. There is so much to their journey to an HEA. It’s funny, emotional and sweet.

Found family is one of my favorite tropes and with this group of friends, it’s so well done and completely entertaining. There’s banter, heart, loyalty and emotion. I love that we get to see a continuation of Jax and Aly’s story in this one and learn more about others in this group. I can’t wait for more in this series.

[Stephs.bookshelf09 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in the series and this is Alex (Alejandro) and Gabby (Gabriella) story.

These two have had a friendship from the start. Their very first interaction was a kismet to never forget. Caught in a rainstorm with her keys locked in her car, Alex swooped in and helped the not damsel in distress.

Since then Alex has only had eyes for one girl, but Gabby isn’t that easy to win over. And just because she is new in town doesn’t mean she didn’t hear all his past playboy ways.

These two have a lot of growth, and heavy pasts they have to come to terms with. They may not be able to choose who they are blood related too, but their found family is one they can always count on.

There is plenty of laughs and banter in this book. Alex and Gabby have similar personalities, and if the crazy moment can happen it does with these two. I’ll just say these two need two need to work on their dog sitting skills before they go getting one of their own 🤣

And I am always a sucker for the night sky. These two have the cutest moments under the stars. Something about in the dark of night allows each of us to let down our walls and allow others to truly see us, deep down. Those moments are uplifting and releasing.

(Operation Ms. to Mrs.)