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Isle of Hope #3
The Only Time
He’s running from his past. She’s running from a crazy ex.
He has sworn off relationships. He won’t make the mistake of trusting another woman with his heart again.
So, when his sister’s friend needs help and his house gets volunteered without his permission, he’s livid.
He likes his privacy, and he doesn’t like feeling out of control.
And that’s what she does to him. She makes him feel out of control.
He’s never felt so physically drawn to a woman before, and he doesn’t like it.
He vows to keep his distance and fight this attraction.
But in such close corners, their connection proves to be too powerful to ignore.
What harm can having a little fun do while they’re stuck in his house together?
He has sworn off relationships. He won’t make the mistake of trusting another woman with his heart again.
So, when his sister’s friend needs help and his house gets volunteered without his permission, he’s livid.
He likes his privacy, and he doesn’t like feeling out of control.
And that’s what she does to him. She makes him feel out of control.
He’s never felt so physically drawn to a woman before, and he doesn’t like it.
He vows to keep his distance and fight this attraction.
But in such close corners, their connection proves to be too powerful to ignore.
What harm can having a little fun do while they’re stuck in his house together?
- GenresSmall Town Romance
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 10, 2024
68 people are currently reading
327 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Baker
16 books259 followersAuthor of spicy romance novels! Lover of dogs, wine, and coffee. Loves to write books that pull at your heartstrings but never leave out the dirty parts!
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Website→www.nicolebakerauthor.com
Newsletter→https://www.nicolebakerauthor.com/con...
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Facebook→nicolebakerauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
December 15, 2024
Mia's ex is stalking her, and when things get too serious, she decides to leave town for a while and wait for things to cool down. Her friend Layla offers her a place to stay with her brother Eric.
Eric reluctantly agrees to this situation but is wary of Mia because he doesn't trust anyone after his past experience. With time the two get into a routine of sorts and slowly start opening up to each other. When Eric finds out about her situation with her ex, he vows to protect her and keep her safe.
I liked Mia. She was the kind of person who was always there for everyone she cared for without asking for anything in return. After growing up with 3 brothers and feeling invisible all her life when the limelight was on them, all she wanted was for someone to see her for her, choose her, and fight for her.
Eric has major trust issues with the way his last relationship ended and the emotional abuse he suffered, which deeply impacted him. He wanted nothing to do with relationships or love. It also led to him tying his self-worth to his job and climbing the ladder by working himself to the bone even if he wasn't too thrilled about it.
As Mia and Eric fall into a routine while she stays at his place, he slowly starts feeling a sense of ease and comfort with her, which allows him to open up in a way he never has with anyone. The dinners together, watching movies, and talking late into the night lead to a growing sense of attraction, but it also feels like more. I liked how Mia took care of Eric when he was hurt and how refreshing that was for him for someone he barely knew to do so much for him for nothing in return. The spice was good, and there was back and forth with all the blurring lines, but it was definitely hot.
I loved how Mia bonded with Eric's family so easily and felt a sense of belonging with them. They were all so supportive and protective of her, which was sweet. I also liked how they all called Eric out when he screwed up and gave him the push to get his head out of his ass.
On to the things that I didn't enjoy so much (please avoid if you plan on reading this+minor spoilers):
The "stalker" situation seemed to fizzle out in a very anticlimactic way. How was Don not arrested after what went down? Her family was wealthy and had the connections, so how was he not in jail after that B&E???? And how was it that her FOUR brothers couldn't intimidate him enough to stay away from Mia, but one visit and 2 punches later from Eric, and he promised to stop??????
Where was the groveling? The third act conflict went on for far too long in my opinion, and I wasn't too happy with how it was resolved because I was still pissed at Eric for being such an asshole. Doing a calendar photo shoot is not how you win a woman back after hurting her the way you did. Also, things got resolved too quickly towards the end for how long it was dragged out.
I actually liked these two together and how their relationship grew up until the third act conflict. That is what ruined this book for me. I had to skim through the last few pages because I was pissed and honestly couldn't care less if they got together or not. I would prefer if they didn't.
Can women in books PLEASEEEEEE, for the love of God, not go back to shitty, emotionally unavailable men who hurt you as soon as they say sorry once??? The fact that she was so desperate that SHE apologized to HIM while he was groveling for not accepting him back the second he apologized. I mean, she had a valid reason because she wasn't sure about his feelings with the way he so easily dismissed her and didn't reach out for WEEKS. The way she starts doubting herself when he doesn't reach out and contemplates reaching out herself and even shortly considers being happy with whatever he was willing to give her. Like NOOO!!!!!! Why can't we get stronger women who are independent and capable and don't take men's bullshit and make them work for it?
Also, his temper tantrums were not a good look, and I didn't like it. It felt borderline abusive how he twisted her words and concerns just because he had trauma from his past. I was not happy with the way he used to snap at her whenever she tried to address his issues only so she could help him. The audacity of him saying she was trying to force him to make changes in his career after knowing him less than two months when, in fact, she was the ONLY person who had ever understood his passion and saw how good he was at it and believed in him to be successful. So fuck you, Eric, and Go. To. Fucking. Therapy.
Thank you to Nicole Baker for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Eric reluctantly agrees to this situation but is wary of Mia because he doesn't trust anyone after his past experience. With time the two get into a routine of sorts and slowly start opening up to each other. When Eric finds out about her situation with her ex, he vows to protect her and keep her safe.
I liked Mia. She was the kind of person who was always there for everyone she cared for without asking for anything in return. After growing up with 3 brothers and feeling invisible all her life when the limelight was on them, all she wanted was for someone to see her for her, choose her, and fight for her.
Eric has major trust issues with the way his last relationship ended and the emotional abuse he suffered, which deeply impacted him. He wanted nothing to do with relationships or love. It also led to him tying his self-worth to his job and climbing the ladder by working himself to the bone even if he wasn't too thrilled about it.
As Mia and Eric fall into a routine while she stays at his place, he slowly starts feeling a sense of ease and comfort with her, which allows him to open up in a way he never has with anyone. The dinners together, watching movies, and talking late into the night lead to a growing sense of attraction, but it also feels like more. I liked how Mia took care of Eric when he was hurt and how refreshing that was for him for someone he barely knew to do so much for him for nothing in return. The spice was good, and there was back and forth with all the blurring lines, but it was definitely hot.
I loved how Mia bonded with Eric's family so easily and felt a sense of belonging with them. They were all so supportive and protective of her, which was sweet. I also liked how they all called Eric out when he screwed up and gave him the push to get his head out of his ass.
On to the things that I didn't enjoy so much (please avoid if you plan on reading this+minor spoilers):
The "stalker" situation seemed to fizzle out in a very anticlimactic way. How was Don not arrested after what went down? Her family was wealthy and had the connections, so how was he not in jail after that B&E???? And how was it that her FOUR brothers couldn't intimidate him enough to stay away from Mia, but one visit and 2 punches later from Eric, and he promised to stop??????
Where was the groveling? The third act conflict went on for far too long in my opinion, and I wasn't too happy with how it was resolved because I was still pissed at Eric for being such an asshole. Doing a calendar photo shoot is not how you win a woman back after hurting her the way you did. Also, things got resolved too quickly towards the end for how long it was dragged out.
I actually liked these two together and how their relationship grew up until the third act conflict. That is what ruined this book for me. I had to skim through the last few pages because I was pissed and honestly couldn't care less if they got together or not. I would prefer if they didn't.
Can women in books PLEASEEEEEE, for the love of God, not go back to shitty, emotionally unavailable men who hurt you as soon as they say sorry once??? The fact that she was so desperate that SHE apologized to HIM while he was groveling for not accepting him back the second he apologized. I mean, she had a valid reason because she wasn't sure about his feelings with the way he so easily dismissed her and didn't reach out for WEEKS. The way she starts doubting herself when he doesn't reach out and contemplates reaching out herself and even shortly considers being happy with whatever he was willing to give her. Like NOOO!!!!!! Why can't we get stronger women who are independent and capable and don't take men's bullshit and make them work for it?
Also, his temper tantrums were not a good look, and I didn't like it. It felt borderline abusive how he twisted her words and concerns just because he had trauma from his past. I was not happy with the way he used to snap at her whenever she tried to address his issues only so she could help him. The audacity of him saying she was trying to force him to make changes in his career after knowing him less than two months when, in fact, she was the ONLY person who had ever understood his passion and saw how good he was at it and believed in him to be successful. So fuck you, Eric, and Go. To. Fucking. Therapy.
Thank you to Nicole Baker for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 14, 2024
Nicole Baker took me through an emotional rollercoaster with this story. Mia, on the run from a crazy ex, just wanting a quiet getaway place to hide out and wait for her ex to move on, is such a strong FMC that I loved watching her walls come down as the story unfolds. And then we have grumpy pants Eric, who took his last relationship and made it’s messy ending his whole persona and swearing off women. Both characters were fantastic and the walls breaking down between the two of them was amazing to watch throughout the story. A great story all around!
February 10, 2025
I read the first two books 5 months ago, and enjoyed them, but this one was just okay for me. Eric, the MMC was a fucking mess, his character took too long to grow for me, he gave us whiplash with his back and forth emotions. Mia was enjoyable, however, outside of physical chemistry, we only got minimal emotional build up between these two. The ending came very quick, I think that’s what threw me off the most, was the quick ending, over all it was an easy quick read.
December 13, 2024
This is my second book by Nicole Baker and it only gets better for me. I have enjoyed her writing and this book was nonetheless for me. The Only Time is the perfect grumpy x sunshine for the Isle of Hope series. Eric and Mia's forced proximity with the blend of hot chemistry and attraction is just the book I wanted to read.
The book starts with Lalya forcing Eric to help her friend Mia stay in his house without giving him a reason. He loves his personal space and does not like the idea of being a stranger in his house but he can not say no to his sister either. He does not know why is Mia coming and living with him. Mia has a crazy stalker ex-boyfriend who follows her everywhere and does not understand even a restraining order against him. She does not feel safe in her house and neither does she want to risk the safety of her family. Her brothers, sisters-in-law, and parents all want her to stay with them but she refuses to compromise their safety. She moves away to her friend's brother's house. There is awkwardness because Eric is grumpy and avoids talking to others. After his last breakup, he has decided to never open himself to love. But what is it about Mia that he feels like talking about, sharing things he never did with anyone, showing her the one thing he hide from the world, his hobby? He can see his walls falling down brick by brick and he hates that so much. He resents his feelings, but he can not deny his attraction. They agree to a temporary arrangement which is strictly in bed at night but what happens when it is also there during the day or when Eric waits to get home from work and spends all his time with Mia? He can not stop himself so what does he do next? He hurts himself and Mia and denies all his feelings. Well, that surfaces all her insecurities. It's all so tangled.
Well, this book takes you through all these emotions and still makes you want more. I enjoyed the small-town romance, closed proximity, grumpy x sunshine, found family, and overall book. I enjoyed every part of it, especially the character of Mia was so beautiful when she managed like a strong emotionally independent woman who could do so much in her life.
I would like to thank Nicole Baker for giving me this opportunity and I wish her the best in her future books and look forward to more such ARC books ahead as well.
*these are just my views on the ARC copy reading*
The book starts with Lalya forcing Eric to help her friend Mia stay in his house without giving him a reason. He loves his personal space and does not like the idea of being a stranger in his house but he can not say no to his sister either. He does not know why is Mia coming and living with him. Mia has a crazy stalker ex-boyfriend who follows her everywhere and does not understand even a restraining order against him. She does not feel safe in her house and neither does she want to risk the safety of her family. Her brothers, sisters-in-law, and parents all want her to stay with them but she refuses to compromise their safety. She moves away to her friend's brother's house. There is awkwardness because Eric is grumpy and avoids talking to others. After his last breakup, he has decided to never open himself to love. But what is it about Mia that he feels like talking about, sharing things he never did with anyone, showing her the one thing he hide from the world, his hobby? He can see his walls falling down brick by brick and he hates that so much. He resents his feelings, but he can not deny his attraction. They agree to a temporary arrangement which is strictly in bed at night but what happens when it is also there during the day or when Eric waits to get home from work and spends all his time with Mia? He can not stop himself so what does he do next? He hurts himself and Mia and denies all his feelings. Well, that surfaces all her insecurities. It's all so tangled.
Well, this book takes you through all these emotions and still makes you want more. I enjoyed the small-town romance, closed proximity, grumpy x sunshine, found family, and overall book. I enjoyed every part of it, especially the character of Mia was so beautiful when she managed like a strong emotionally independent woman who could do so much in her life.
I would like to thank Nicole Baker for giving me this opportunity and I wish her the best in her future books and look forward to more such ARC books ahead as well.
*these are just my views on the ARC copy reading*
December 4, 2024
A past heartbreak crumbled Eric's self-worth, leaving him mistrustful of any woman trying to get close to him.
Mia is fearful for her safety, running from a man who wants her for all the wrong reasons.
As a favor to his sister and her best friend, they are made to live together until Mia feels safe enough to go home. Eric despises the disruption to his routine and privacy that Mia's presence in his home creates, but as the days go by he cannot ignore the growing attraction he feels for her. Mia begins to unravel him, eliciting in him feelings he has sworn never to feel for another woman again. And with all his might, Eric fights them.
This was the premise that has kept me hooked on the story from start to finish. I hung on to every moment, every scene, where both Mia and Eric struggle to acknowledge their growing feelings for one another in the midst of her fear that Eric isn't as deep into it as she is, and Eric being scared to his wits that a relationship with Mia will only destroy him again. My heart broke for them both when Mia walks away without Eric making an effort to stop her. How was he ever going to make it right? Of course, finding out the answer to that question was a joy to experience to the book's very end.
Picking up this book gave me little doubts of how much I was going to enjoy Mia's and Eric's story. I am just overjoyed that once again, the author has not disappointed me on that front. Another amazing read this was indeed.
I thank the author and Literary Inspired for the ARC of this book, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Mia is fearful for her safety, running from a man who wants her for all the wrong reasons.
As a favor to his sister and her best friend, they are made to live together until Mia feels safe enough to go home. Eric despises the disruption to his routine and privacy that Mia's presence in his home creates, but as the days go by he cannot ignore the growing attraction he feels for her. Mia begins to unravel him, eliciting in him feelings he has sworn never to feel for another woman again. And with all his might, Eric fights them.
This was the premise that has kept me hooked on the story from start to finish. I hung on to every moment, every scene, where both Mia and Eric struggle to acknowledge their growing feelings for one another in the midst of her fear that Eric isn't as deep into it as she is, and Eric being scared to his wits that a relationship with Mia will only destroy him again. My heart broke for them both when Mia walks away without Eric making an effort to stop her. How was he ever going to make it right? Of course, finding out the answer to that question was a joy to experience to the book's very end.
Picking up this book gave me little doubts of how much I was going to enjoy Mia's and Eric's story. I am just overjoyed that once again, the author has not disappointed me on that front. Another amazing read this was indeed.
I thank the author and Literary Inspired for the ARC of this book, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
December 11, 2024
Mia and Eric
Forced proximity
Grumpy sunshine
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Finally!! Finally we get Mia’s story, and the wait was absolutely worth it. As much as I have loved this series, my true love is the Giannelli family. That series still lives deep in my soul and believe the final book in this series including Mia took it up a notch for me.
Mia. I wasn’t expecting all her layers. As the baby sister, one would assume all was perfect with her. Despite her layers, she kept positive and light. And kept moving forward.
Enter Eric. Eric is a grumpy, emotionally closed man thanks to being burned by love in the past. He no longer knows his true worth.
Thanks to a crazy ex and a helpful BFF (Eric’s sister), Mia ends up living with Eric. It doesn’t take long until Eric becomes protective of her and eventually giving into his feelings «I don’t do relationship». And due to this, he pushes her away. Seriously!? I hate third-act breakups. But his love language to get her back was tooo good.
Them together. She definitely challenged him, saw hil for his true worth and brought him the light. Nicole writes intimacy so beautifully and spice at a whole different level. I blushed more than once and swooned here and there.
Only negative was I would have liked even more in the epilogue, likely because I simply want more of them.
Forced proximity
Grumpy sunshine
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Finally!! Finally we get Mia’s story, and the wait was absolutely worth it. As much as I have loved this series, my true love is the Giannelli family. That series still lives deep in my soul and believe the final book in this series including Mia took it up a notch for me.
Mia. I wasn’t expecting all her layers. As the baby sister, one would assume all was perfect with her. Despite her layers, she kept positive and light. And kept moving forward.
Enter Eric. Eric is a grumpy, emotionally closed man thanks to being burned by love in the past. He no longer knows his true worth.
Thanks to a crazy ex and a helpful BFF (Eric’s sister), Mia ends up living with Eric. It doesn’t take long until Eric becomes protective of her and eventually giving into his feelings «I don’t do relationship». And due to this, he pushes her away. Seriously!? I hate third-act breakups. But his love language to get her back was tooo good.
Them together. She definitely challenged him, saw hil for his true worth and brought him the light. Nicole writes intimacy so beautifully and spice at a whole different level. I blushed more than once and swooned here and there.
Only negative was I would have liked even more in the epilogue, likely because I simply want more of them.
December 11, 2024
The Only Time by Nicole Baker is an unforgettable, emotional rollercoaster that had me hooked from the very first page. The story is beautifully written, with a compelling blend of romance, self-discovery, and heartfelt moments. The characters are wonderfully developed, and you can’t help but root for them as they navigate the complexities of love, loss, and second chances.
Baker’s writing is engaging and evocative, drawing you deep into the emotional turmoil and the tender moments shared between the protagonists. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, and their journey is one that will leave you reflecting long after the last page. The pacing is perfect, allowing the relationship to unfold naturally while keeping the reader invested in the unfolding drama.
What I loved most about The Only Time is its authenticity—Baker doesn’t shy away from portraying raw, real emotions and the struggles that come with following your heart. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a beautiful, heartwarming love story with depth and substance.
A definite 5-star read, and I can't wait to see what Nicole Baker writes next! Highly recommended for fans of emotional romance and powerful storytelling.
Baker’s writing is engaging and evocative, drawing you deep into the emotional turmoil and the tender moments shared between the protagonists. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, and their journey is one that will leave you reflecting long after the last page. The pacing is perfect, allowing the relationship to unfold naturally while keeping the reader invested in the unfolding drama.
What I loved most about The Only Time is its authenticity—Baker doesn’t shy away from portraying raw, real emotions and the struggles that come with following your heart. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a beautiful, heartwarming love story with depth and substance.
A definite 5-star read, and I can't wait to see what Nicole Baker writes next! Highly recommended for fans of emotional romance and powerful storytelling.
December 10, 2024
Mia was running from her stalking ex who refuse accept that it is over. Mia accepted offer from her friend to live at her brother’s house until thing with her ex got resolved.
Eric was grumpy and emotionally closed, after his ex broke his heart, he has sworn off relationships. He won’t make the mistake of trusting another woman with his heart again.
Mia Felt like she is undeserving of love whereas Eric feels like no women would want him unless he is load of money . Now both feel this connection towards each and the tension between them start growing up.
Mia was a such sweet, loving women who has her own successful business and stands up for people she love and care about. I love her character. I love how she took care of him and how he was protective of her. Both were healing from their past self and has their own fault in this relationship but i love it ended good for them. I love how he grovel for her. I love Eric getting out of his comfort zone. I love the banter and tension between them. I love both of their family and how loving and protective they were.
Eric was grumpy and emotionally closed, after his ex broke his heart, he has sworn off relationships. He won’t make the mistake of trusting another woman with his heart again.
Mia Felt like she is undeserving of love whereas Eric feels like no women would want him unless he is load of money . Now both feel this connection towards each and the tension between them start growing up.
Mia was a such sweet, loving women who has her own successful business and stands up for people she love and care about. I love her character. I love how she took care of him and how he was protective of her. Both were healing from their past self and has their own fault in this relationship but i love it ended good for them. I love how he grovel for her. I love Eric getting out of his comfort zone. I love the banter and tension between them. I love both of their family and how loving and protective they were.
December 4, 2024
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This beautiful small town story is filled with passion and growth. I really enjoyed how the story’s pace and how it all flowed together.
This story started off stong and kept me reeled in until the end. I absolutely adored the dynamic that built between Mia and grumpy Eric. Given the circumstances of the how and why the met, I’d say that they balanced out each other perfectly. His protectiveness was exactly what Mia needed while he needed her optimism. Their chemistry was also burning hot. Although this story wasn’t without heartaches and hard moments, it felt like it unfolded as needed with the perfect ending.
If you enjoy romances with forced proximity, touch her and d!e, best friend’s brother, I highly recommend reading this book!
*This is book 3 in the Isle of Hope series but can absolutely be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank Nicole Baker and @literaryinspired for the opportunity to read and review The Only Time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This beautiful small town story is filled with passion and growth. I really enjoyed how the story’s pace and how it all flowed together.
This story started off stong and kept me reeled in until the end. I absolutely adored the dynamic that built between Mia and grumpy Eric. Given the circumstances of the how and why the met, I’d say that they balanced out each other perfectly. His protectiveness was exactly what Mia needed while he needed her optimism. Their chemistry was also burning hot. Although this story wasn’t without heartaches and hard moments, it felt like it unfolded as needed with the perfect ending.
If you enjoy romances with forced proximity, touch her and d!e, best friend’s brother, I highly recommend reading this book!
*This is book 3 in the Isle of Hope series but can absolutely be read as a standalone.
I would like to thank Nicole Baker and @literaryinspired for the opportunity to read and review The Only Time.
December 7, 2024
The Only Time was a great forced proximity romance. It is the story of Mia and Eric. Eric is a grumpy, emotionally closed man due to being burned by love in the past. Mia is a young woman who finds herself the victim of her ex-boyfriend’s refusal to accept it’s over. Seeking safety from his stalking, Mia accepts an offer from her friend to hide out at her brother’s house several states away until things die down.
As a result, Mia and Eric find themselves living together in Eric’s large home. Their circumstances force them to interact, sometimes reluctantly, and perhaps share more than they intend. What follows is a tale of two people who feel unworthy of love and their journey toward resolving these issues.
I truly enjoyed this book. The author did a good job developing both the story and the characters. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a romance full of steam, humorous banter, family dynamics, and a well-deserved HEA.
As a result, Mia and Eric find themselves living together in Eric’s large home. Their circumstances force them to interact, sometimes reluctantly, and perhaps share more than they intend. What follows is a tale of two people who feel unworthy of love and their journey toward resolving these issues.
I truly enjoyed this book. The author did a good job developing both the story and the characters. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a romance full of steam, humorous banter, family dynamics, and a well-deserved HEA.
December 7, 2024
"The Only Time" by Nicole Baker is a well written fast paced book that makes you want to keep reading. This is the 3rd book in the series but can be read as a stand alone.
Mia is having issues with her ex and she needs to get away. Her friend offers her a room at her brother's house. Eric is stuck in a routine to help him go through the day, but he is not really living. When Mia comes in to his house it's like a breath of fresh air. He doesn't know why she is there but he is starting to like it. As both of them start to work on their issues they start spending more and more time together. After, Mia goes home Eric doesn't know what to do with himself. Will their pasts keep them apart?
Highly recommend! This is a cute heartwarming story that has you rooting for them.
Mia is having issues with her ex and she needs to get away. Her friend offers her a room at her brother's house. Eric is stuck in a routine to help him go through the day, but he is not really living. When Mia comes in to his house it's like a breath of fresh air. He doesn't know why she is there but he is starting to like it. As both of them start to work on their issues they start spending more and more time together. After, Mia goes home Eric doesn't know what to do with himself. Will their pasts keep them apart?
Highly recommend! This is a cute heartwarming story that has you rooting for them.
December 11, 2024
Two people struggling with their own issues, heartbreak has stripped Eric of his confidence and wants nothing to do with another woman, Mia is fearful for her safety from an ex that doesn’t want to believe it is over.
As a favor to his sister Mia moves in with Eric u til she feels safe enough to go home.
Eric doesn’t like her being in his hime she’s a disruption to his routines. But he cannot ignore his growing attraction to her.
Mia is a caring loving person she has her own business.
Can this grumpy man learn to love again and can Mia feel like she is deserving of love.
This is a small town forced proximity best friends brother. If you like those tropes than this is for you. Absolutely loved this book! This is book 3 in the series♥️
As a favor to his sister Mia moves in with Eric u til she feels safe enough to go home.
Eric doesn’t like her being in his hime she’s a disruption to his routines. But he cannot ignore his growing attraction to her.
Mia is a caring loving person she has her own business.
Can this grumpy man learn to love again and can Mia feel like she is deserving of love.
This is a small town forced proximity best friends brother. If you like those tropes than this is for you. Absolutely loved this book! This is book 3 in the series♥️
December 22, 2024
This book is everything you need and a bit more.
Grumpy mmc soft for her? Check.
Overprotective mmc? Check.
Best friend's brother, forced proximity, touch her and d!e. This book has EVERYTHING.
I loved this book. I don't know how else to put it. It's a fast read, with lots of love a steamy scenes. Also, Eric screws up. A lot. BUT I LOVE HIM DEARLY.
Mia and Eric's relationship is honestly so sweet, even with everything that happens in-between.
He's completely in love with her, and I can't believe he took so long to realise.😭
I loved Nicole's writing (as always) and this book almost made me break my book buying ban. I WANT TO READ THE GIANNELLI SERIES SO BAD!!
Thank you so much to Nicole for the opportunity to arc read this beauty!🫶🏻
Grumpy mmc soft for her? Check.
Overprotective mmc? Check.
Best friend's brother, forced proximity, touch her and d!e. This book has EVERYTHING.
I loved this book. I don't know how else to put it. It's a fast read, with lots of love a steamy scenes. Also, Eric screws up. A lot. BUT I LOVE HIM DEARLY.
"You saw me, Mia. The real me. The one who always dreamed of this but never knew it was possible. I'm so crazy about you. I...I love you."
Mia and Eric's relationship is honestly so sweet, even with everything that happens in-between.
He's completely in love with her, and I can't believe he took so long to realise.😭
"I would do anything for you, Mia. The only time I have ever felt loved and accepted for who I am, has been with you. You are my world now."
I loved Nicole's writing (as always) and this book almost made me break my book buying ban. I WANT TO READ THE GIANNELLI SERIES SO BAD!!
Thank you so much to Nicole for the opportunity to arc read this beauty!🫶🏻
December 18, 2024
*arc review*
4.5/⭐️
3.5/🌶️
When two series/worlds collide in a story- especially when it’s a finally she’s getting her love story, it’s bound to be good.
And. It. Was.
Goodness. Nicole hit it out of the park with this story. The slight suspense. The character growth, the angst? I couldn’t get enough. But also this maybe the spiciest story from Nicole I’ve read.
Mia and Eric were just two strangers who were forced into a temporary cohabitation situation. Both were anti dating and had no intention of ever doing that again. But slowly the tension between them was red hot and the mouth of Eric 🤤
Mia and Eric grew together and through their issues-slowly. And a lot of back and forth, fear, and nosey sibling. They finally got to where they belong.
4.5/⭐️
3.5/🌶️
When two series/worlds collide in a story- especially when it’s a finally she’s getting her love story, it’s bound to be good.
And. It. Was.
Goodness. Nicole hit it out of the park with this story. The slight suspense. The character growth, the angst? I couldn’t get enough. But also this maybe the spiciest story from Nicole I’ve read.
Mia and Eric were just two strangers who were forced into a temporary cohabitation situation. Both were anti dating and had no intention of ever doing that again. But slowly the tension between them was red hot and the mouth of Eric 🤤
Mia and Eric grew together and through their issues-slowly. And a lot of back and forth, fear, and nosey sibling. They finally got to where they belong.
December 4, 2024
This was a quick read but that does not mean it was lacking anything! There was just enough back story/ story line and the perfect amount of spice!
Mia’s character was so relatable. I think most of us know what it feels like to feel undeserving of love. She doesn’t let that stop her from trying to open her heart though. The tension between her and Eric was definitely there! I couldn’t wait for them to finally give into it and when they did… it was so worth it!
I didn’t love Eric’s character at first. He’s definitely the definition of a grump. When he finally realize he needed Mia though… 🤌🏻
I loved this book!
Mia’s character was so relatable. I think most of us know what it feels like to feel undeserving of love. She doesn’t let that stop her from trying to open her heart though. The tension between her and Eric was definitely there! I couldn’t wait for them to finally give into it and when they did… it was so worth it!
I didn’t love Eric’s character at first. He’s definitely the definition of a grump. When he finally realize he needed Mia though… 🤌🏻
I loved this book!
December 10, 2024
This may be my new favorite in Isle of Hope series – and I didn’t think anything could top Josh and Layla! I loved seeing more of Mia from the Giannelli family, and I’ll never complain about all the Italian food and wine mentioned in these series! The tension between Mia and Eric was SO good, and the spice was even better! Both characters had to overcome some past relationship traumas, but I was obsessed with their chemistry and vibe from the very start. There were some elements of romantic suspense that added a little something extra I haven’t seen in previous books. I loved the updates from the past couples in both series, and watching their families meddle - Can’t wait for more of this series!
This is for you if you love:
🍷 Forced Proximity
🪵 Grumpy/Sunshine
🍷 Best Friend’s Brother
🪵 Touch Her and Die
🍷 Afraid of Commitment
🪵 Small Town Romance
Thank you @nicolebaker_author and @literaryinspired for this ARC!💫
This is for you if you love:
🍷 Forced Proximity
🪵 Grumpy/Sunshine
🍷 Best Friend’s Brother
🪵 Touch Her and Die
🍷 Afraid of Commitment
🪵 Small Town Romance
Thank you @nicolebaker_author and @literaryinspired for this ARC!💫
October 28, 2025
I didn’t really like their relationship — he gave 150% to his ex (who was a bitch from the very start), but couldn’t even manage the bare minimum for Mia. He knew she had feelings for him, yet he treated her worse than his ex ever treated him.
So, while the relationship itself was awful, the book was still interesting. That said, I don’t think they’d ever last in real life. The whole dynamic was toxic, and his sudden change from 0 to 100 felt completely unrealistic. I just don’t believe in that kind of transformation.
But in the end, I don’t have to like the relationship to enjoy the story — and the book itself was great.
So, while the relationship itself was awful, the book was still interesting. That said, I don’t think they’d ever last in real life. The whole dynamic was toxic, and his sudden change from 0 to 100 felt completely unrealistic. I just don’t believe in that kind of transformation.
But in the end, I don’t have to like the relationship to enjoy the story — and the book itself was great.
December 4, 2024
I loved this book so much ❤️🩹 it broke my heart but it was such a beautiful story. Some tears may have escaped too 🥺
I truly felt what Mia was going through and how she believed she wasn’t worthy of being loved so deeply, it resonated with me a lot.
God and Eric, my heart broke for what he had been through and how he felt he wasn’t good enough for someone unless he had loads of money. He hurt Mia badly, but his grovelling was the best.
I loved both families and I’m definitely going to go back and read the other books in this series 🩷
I truly felt what Mia was going through and how she believed she wasn’t worthy of being loved so deeply, it resonated with me a lot.
God and Eric, my heart broke for what he had been through and how he felt he wasn’t good enough for someone unless he had loads of money. He hurt Mia badly, but his grovelling was the best.
I loved both families and I’m definitely going to go back and read the other books in this series 🩷
December 8, 2024
I enjoyed Mia and Eric's story. Both had horrible ex's and thought themselves unworthy of love, but finding love in each other.
I loved how this book took two characters from two different series and combined it into one great story. I liked how Mia got Eric to slowly push away his grumpy side and open up to her just by being herself.
The only thing I didn't like was the way Mia would steamroll over Eric's boundaries. He asked her not to talk about something or not to do something but she'd do it anyways, then get upset because he got mad.
Overall, it was a great read.
I loved how this book took two characters from two different series and combined it into one great story. I liked how Mia got Eric to slowly push away his grumpy side and open up to her just by being herself.
The only thing I didn't like was the way Mia would steamroll over Eric's boundaries. He asked her not to talk about something or not to do something but she'd do it anyways, then get upset because he got mad.
Overall, it was a great read.
December 5, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Grumpy men are the BEST. They always seem to love the hardest (while fighting every moment of it).
Nicole Baker proves that with Eric.
This might be my favorite book yet. I love Mia and Eric's relationship. She truly brought out the best in him, and I love how protective he was of her.
This book definitely takes your emotions on a bit of a rollercoaster ride. But the ending is completely worth it!
Excited to see what comes next!
Grumpy men are the BEST. They always seem to love the hardest (while fighting every moment of it).
Nicole Baker proves that with Eric.
This might be my favorite book yet. I love Mia and Eric's relationship. She truly brought out the best in him, and I love how protective he was of her.
This book definitely takes your emotions on a bit of a rollercoaster ride. But the ending is completely worth it!
Excited to see what comes next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2024
This small town story was just perfect for these two characters. Mia is running from her ex-boyfriend stalker and her best friend offers her brother, Eric’s, house for her to stay in to be safe. Eric has had his heart broken and is not looking for romance. He is absolutely what Mia needs and I loved their chemistry. This is the first story I’ve read by Nicole Baker but I can’t wait to read another one!
December 12, 2024
I laughed I cried I enjoyed the ride this book took me on. The only time is a cute fast-paced small town romance that is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. It’s full of steam, banter, humour. The story will have the has you rooting for them and a HEA
“For a brief second, I thought I was going to support a hard-on right in front of her while I bleed to death. Talk about a humiliating way to go.”
“For a brief second, I thought I was going to support a hard-on right in front of her while I bleed to death. Talk about a humiliating way to go.”
December 20, 2024
The Only Time was a fantastic roller coaster of a read. Mia is a strong FMC who is hiding from her stalker ex boyfriend. She stays with her friend's brother, a very grumpy Eric. As the story unfolds we learn so much about the characters and really get to see inside of each of them. This story has many ups and downs as both main characters must heal from their past relationship wounds. This is a must read romance!
December 23, 2024
Eric is the epitome of a Mr. Grumpy Pants MMC. There were so many times I wanted to knock the grumpy out of him so he wouldn’t lose what was right there in front of him. Thankfully the Mia’s brothers helped with that! Mia is the ray of sunshine! Despite all she is going through with a stalker ex, she still brought so much light! I loved reading about both these characters and how they worked to break down each other’s walls. The chemistry between the two is REAL! Holy moly. Eric has a mouth on him and it really ups the spice level! I do wish the ending was a bit more complete. I have questions I want answered!
December 5, 2024
A grumpy guy who's been hurt one too many times when it comes to love and a girl on the run who falls way too quickly.
I loved this story. It had strong characters that we got to see grow. Lots of spice, which I loved and banter.
This was my first read by this author, but I'm already excited to see whatelse she has! 5 out of 5 stars!
I loved this story. It had strong characters that we got to see grow. Lots of spice, which I loved and banter.
This was my first read by this author, but I'm already excited to see whatelse she has! 5 out of 5 stars!
December 10, 2024
This is the first book by this author I have read although it is the 3rd book in the series.
This can be read as a standalone
Mia is such a relatable fmc going through a breakup where her ex won't give up.
eric mmc is your grumpy man haha but he has his reasons.
This book was quite fast paced but didn't lack anything due to it.
the plot was there, back story, spice, this book had it all
a definite 4 star solid review from me
This can be read as a standalone
Mia is such a relatable fmc going through a breakup where her ex won't give up.
eric mmc is your grumpy man haha but he has his reasons.
This book was quite fast paced but didn't lack anything due to it.
the plot was there, back story, spice, this book had it all
a definite 4 star solid review from me
December 9, 2024
Such an easy, quick read! The story didn't lack anything despite it being so fast-paced.
This is the third book in the series but can be read as a standalone.
I'm not a huge fan of the way Mia ignored Eric's boundaries, when asked not to talk about certain topics.
All in all a great read to reach those reading goals at the end of the year!
This is the third book in the series but can be read as a standalone.
I'm not a huge fan of the way Mia ignored Eric's boundaries, when asked not to talk about certain topics.
All in all a great read to reach those reading goals at the end of the year!
December 6, 2024
I loved this book so much!! Erics protectiveness of Mia even though they had just met was perfection.. The way Mia didn't hesitate to run and help Eric when he needed it. This was all around amazing and I enjoyed every second of it!!
December 2, 2024
An amazing read!! Full review to come
December 9, 2024
This was such an enjoyable read! Eric & Mia were so adorable once they accepted their attraction and they really did deserve that second chance at love! 🥰
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