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The Kings #1
Lessons in Heartbreak
A playboy football player. A shy librarian. When old friends reunite, opposites attract in a witty and lighthearted romance about taking chances and falling in love against the odds.
It’s an unwritten rule small-town librarians shall not commit spontaneous acts, for fear of mortal embarrassment. I’d certainly just proved it true, though hiring an escort was perfectly logical. How else should I overcome my fear of intimacy without risking heartbreak?
Unfortunately, what came next wasn’t so logical.
Instead of a dating coach, Griffin King showed up. Yes, that Griffin my childhood neighbor and now, to my dismay, an obscenely handsome pro football player. He’s not actually an escort, but how was I supposed to know that?
Avoiding him after the mix-up is impossible. The man is everywhere—put in time-out by his agent after a PR snafu. Griffin might be an outrageous flirt determined to torment me until I snap, but he’s also the perfect man to help me.
The lessons aren’t what I thought they’d be. Neither is Griffin. Every time we touch, every time he shows me a different side to myself—and to him—I can’t help but wonder if we’re about to break another the playboy and the good girl aren’t supposed to fall in love.
It’s an unwritten rule small-town librarians shall not commit spontaneous acts, for fear of mortal embarrassment. I’d certainly just proved it true, though hiring an escort was perfectly logical. How else should I overcome my fear of intimacy without risking heartbreak?
Unfortunately, what came next wasn’t so logical.
Instead of a dating coach, Griffin King showed up. Yes, that Griffin my childhood neighbor and now, to my dismay, an obscenely handsome pro football player. He’s not actually an escort, but how was I supposed to know that?
Avoiding him after the mix-up is impossible. The man is everywhere—put in time-out by his agent after a PR snafu. Griffin might be an outrageous flirt determined to torment me until I snap, but he’s also the perfect man to help me.
The lessons aren’t what I thought they’d be. Neither is Griffin. Every time we touch, every time he shows me a different side to myself—and to him—I can’t help but wonder if we’re about to break another the playboy and the good girl aren’t supposed to fall in love.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 20, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,064 reviews
April 15, 2025
EEE HAPPY PUBLICATION DATE TO ONE OF MY FAV BOOKS OF THE YEAR 🫂
Wow, this was so much more than I was expecting 🥹🥹🥹. Every once in a while, I go back to my roots and read a bad-boy x good-girl romance, even better if it has the "I'll teach you" trope, so once I saw this one, I knew I had to pick it up. Here's how it goes: Ruby's tired of being clumsy and inexperienced about flirting and intimacy, so she hires an escort to help her. What she doesn't expect is for her former neighbor (now a super famous pro football player) to appear at the accorded meeting; except he isn't the person she hired but will offer to give her lessons in whatever she needs.
At first sight, Griffin and Ruby were pretty much the perfect cliche of the playboy MMC and shy FMC, but once I learned more about them, I realized that so many sides of them were often brushed aside or ignored by their peers. Yes, Griffin has a past full of parties, getting drunk, and doing silly and irresponsible stuff immortalized on camera; and yes, Ruby is shy, insecure, and wants a soft and quiet life, but they're so much more than this. There's a reveal halfway through the book that changes everything, and even though this isn't hinted in the synopsis, I do want to mention it because it changed how I felt about some previous actions and lines from one of the characters. Their feelings and restraints indeed made more sense the more they revealed and opened up to each other, but I need you guys to know that if there are any moments or specific lines in the beginning that don't land the way they're supposed to, I promise it'll make sense later.
What can I say about them as a couple other than I loved them so so much? 😭💗 Their chemistry is present from their first interaction. But with all the lessons in confidence, dates, and any other moments Ruby and Griffin spend together, their connection strengthens to the point it makes me teary-eyed to even think about it. The love, care, softness, and trust in and with each other made them one of my favorite couples of the year so far. I adored seeing Ruby open her heart to love and gain the confidence she so needed. I loved seeing Griffin learn how he wanted to live his life and gain control over how he's perceived. They had all these soft, heartfelt, and hot moments, but their conversations flew with such ease that they had me giggling at times. And the secondary characters don't stay behind. Lauren (Ruby's best friend) and Marcus (Griffin's best friend) weren't only the comedic reliefs for lots of scenes but also showed how much of a ride or die they are for Ruby and Griffin.
Wait, I'm only now realizing the three quotes I've put are in the MMC's perspective, but yeah, you need to know that man is gone for her, so terribly down bad... and that's exactly how I like my MMCs 🤭. I'm really in awe of this book, not only because it turned out to be more than I was expecting but also with how easily it grabbed and kept me glued to the story. I stayed up until almost 2 AM reading this and then woke up the next day at 6 AM to continue and finish it. That's how good it was. I can't believe it's only my first Karla Sorensen book, but it definitely won't be my last.
There's one quote I want to add so badly, but I can't because it's kind of a spoiler. I also want to tell you what movie this book reminds me of, but I can't do that either because it's also a spoiler 😭, so I'm gonna need you to read this book and once you're done let me know so we can talk about that quote and movie 🙂↕️. Yes, this is me forcing you to pick this up when it comes out on May 20th!!
Thank you to Montlake and Netgalley for the ARC ♡
Wow, this was so much more than I was expecting 🥹🥹🥹. Every once in a while, I go back to my roots and read a bad-boy x good-girl romance, even better if it has the "I'll teach you" trope, so once I saw this one, I knew I had to pick it up. Here's how it goes: Ruby's tired of being clumsy and inexperienced about flirting and intimacy, so she hires an escort to help her. What she doesn't expect is for her former neighbor (now a super famous pro football player) to appear at the accorded meeting; except he isn't the person she hired but will offer to give her lessons in whatever she needs.
“Will it make you feel better, baby? If it made you smile, I’m pretty sure I’d do any fucking thing you asked.”
At first sight, Griffin and Ruby were pretty much the perfect cliche of the playboy MMC and shy FMC, but once I learned more about them, I realized that so many sides of them were often brushed aside or ignored by their peers. Yes, Griffin has a past full of parties, getting drunk, and doing silly and irresponsible stuff immortalized on camera; and yes, Ruby is shy, insecure, and wants a soft and quiet life, but they're so much more than this. There's a reveal halfway through the book that changes everything, and even though this isn't hinted in the synopsis, I do want to mention it because it changed how I felt about some previous actions and lines from one of the characters. Their feelings and restraints indeed made more sense the more they revealed and opened up to each other, but I need you guys to know that if there are any moments or specific lines in the beginning that don't land the way they're supposed to, I promise it'll make sense later.
“Please,” she whispered.
My forehead fell against hers again. “Anything,” I told her. With every molecule in my worthless body, I meant it. I’d give her anything I was capable of giving. All she had to do was ask.
What can I say about them as a couple other than I loved them so so much? 😭💗 Their chemistry is present from their first interaction. But with all the lessons in confidence, dates, and any other moments Ruby and Griffin spend together, their connection strengthens to the point it makes me teary-eyed to even think about it. The love, care, softness, and trust in and with each other made them one of my favorite couples of the year so far. I adored seeing Ruby open her heart to love and gain the confidence she so needed. I loved seeing Griffin learn how he wanted to live his life and gain control over how he's perceived. They had all these soft, heartfelt, and hot moments, but their conversations flew with such ease that they had me giggling at times. And the secondary characters don't stay behind. Lauren (Ruby's best friend) and Marcus (Griffin's best friend) weren't only the comedic reliefs for lots of scenes but also showed how much of a ride or die they are for Ruby and Griffin.
“A hundred years. I could kiss this woman for a hundred years, and it wouldn’t be enough. A million days, a billion hours. Nothing short of forever felt like enough,”
Wait, I'm only now realizing the three quotes I've put are in the MMC's perspective, but yeah, you need to know that man is gone for her, so terribly down bad... and that's exactly how I like my MMCs 🤭. I'm really in awe of this book, not only because it turned out to be more than I was expecting but also with how easily it grabbed and kept me glued to the story. I stayed up until almost 2 AM reading this and then woke up the next day at 6 AM to continue and finish it. That's how good it was. I can't believe it's only my first Karla Sorensen book, but it definitely won't be my last.
There's one quote I want to add so badly, but I can't because it's kind of a spoiler. I also want to tell you what movie this book reminds me of, but I can't do that either because it's also a spoiler 😭, so I'm gonna need you to read this book and once you're done let me know so we can talk about that quote and movie 🙂↕️. Yes, this is me forcing you to pick this up when it comes out on May 20th!!
Thank you to Montlake and Netgalley for the ARC ♡
June 7, 2025
This was a sweet story. I always enjoy anything Karla Sorenson writes. Both characters were fun and cute together.
Finally getting to this arc, my slump is killing me 😢
Finally getting to this arc, my slump is killing me 😢
April 19, 2025
4 stars
If early 2000s romcoms raised you, this book is definitely for you. It carried that familiar sparkle—the banter, the charm, the comforting rhythm—but it also carried something heavier. something that will settle quietly in your chest and stay there.
Ruby was the kind of heroine I loved immediately. her warmth, her awkwardness, the way she tried so hard to stay whole despite everything. I felt her loneliness, her longing, the ache of wanting to be touched without fear.
then there was Griffin. he wasn’t just the brooding hockey player or the twin she didn’t expect to fall for—he was so much more. I loved that he didn’t try to fix her. he met her where she was. he didn’t pull her out of the dark; he sat beside her in it. their chemistry wasn’t loud or rushed—it built slowly, in the glances, in the jokes, in the quiet.
but this wasn’t just a love story. It was about grief, too. about family wounds that don’t close cleanly. Griffin’s fractured relationship with his twin and Ruby’s past… and when that unraveled, I had to put the book down and breathe. It hurt. but it mattered.
I came in looking for the comfort of a romcom. I left carrying something heavier, something better. a story about healing, not fixing. about being seen, even in your brokenness.
and I’d read it all over again.
many thanks to the author and netgalley for the eARC
”that’s what it was about. It wasn’t just saying we loved each other—it was showing it. Choosing each other, through all the hard.”
If early 2000s romcoms raised you, this book is definitely for you. It carried that familiar sparkle—the banter, the charm, the comforting rhythm—but it also carried something heavier. something that will settle quietly in your chest and stay there.
Ruby was the kind of heroine I loved immediately. her warmth, her awkwardness, the way she tried so hard to stay whole despite everything. I felt her loneliness, her longing, the ache of wanting to be touched without fear.
then there was Griffin. he wasn’t just the brooding hockey player or the twin she didn’t expect to fall for—he was so much more. I loved that he didn’t try to fix her. he met her where she was. he didn’t pull her out of the dark; he sat beside her in it. their chemistry wasn’t loud or rushed—it built slowly, in the glances, in the jokes, in the quiet.
but this wasn’t just a love story. It was about grief, too. about family wounds that don’t close cleanly. Griffin’s fractured relationship with his twin and Ruby’s past… and when that unraveled, I had to put the book down and breathe. It hurt. but it mattered.
I came in looking for the comfort of a romcom. I left carrying something heavier, something better. a story about healing, not fixing. about being seen, even in your brokenness.
and I’d read it all over again.
many thanks to the author and netgalley for the eARC
December 21, 2025
Part 1
2 🏈📚⭐️s
It was a sweet romance read with a few serious topics, yet it didn’t thrill me.
Some scenes could have been absent and not fill the pages.
Both main characters didn’t touch my heart, lacked depth and chemistry.
References regarding Jane Austen’s books didn’t save the day…
2 🏈📚⭐️s
It was a sweet romance read with a few serious topics, yet it didn’t thrill me.
Some scenes could have been absent and not fill the pages.
Both main characters didn’t touch my heart, lacked depth and chemistry.
References regarding Jane Austen’s books didn’t save the day…
June 23, 2025
4 stars
I loved the shy librarian, Ruby, and the playboy hero, Griffin. They were great together. This was a fun one.
I loved the shy librarian, Ruby, and the playboy hero, Griffin. They were great together. This was a fun one.
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Aiden Snow & Samantha Brentmoor
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance
Length:10h 23m
May 21, 2025
the setup…
Ruby Tate has always lived a sheltered life even though she excelled at everything she set her mind to. But she’s now a thirty-year old librarian living alone with her dog Bruiser in Wellsprings, Colorado and has never been in a relationship. Ruby struggles with intimacy and with the urging of her much more liberated friend and colleague Lauren, hires an escort to give her lessons. Who shows up at their first meeting in a café? Griffin King, her childhood taunter who also recognizes her. Little does she know that he’s now a star NFL player.
the heart of the story…
Griffin has a well-earned “player” reputation but always admired Ruby despite his constant teasing. He and his twin brother Barrett were her next door neighbors and competed athletically while she watched from a tree house. He was genuinely interested in Ruby and volunteered to help her with her mission and both agreed to stay in the friend zone. Yeah, right. I loved how their friendship grew, both impacting each other during these lessons, getting the best of what each had to offer.
the narration…
Samantha Brentwood and Aiden Snow are first timers for me and I would happily listen to them again. He’s got a rich, deep and sexy voice and she personified Ruby. They gave wonderful performances and distinctive voices for the secondary characters as well.
the bottom line…
I took a chance on an unknown to me author and it paid off nicely. This was a wonderful love story with hidden depths and lots of fun moments. It was much, much more than I’d expected.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Ruby Tate has always lived a sheltered life even though she excelled at everything she set her mind to. But she’s now a thirty-year old librarian living alone with her dog Bruiser in Wellsprings, Colorado and has never been in a relationship. Ruby struggles with intimacy and with the urging of her much more liberated friend and colleague Lauren, hires an escort to give her lessons. Who shows up at their first meeting in a café? Griffin King, her childhood taunter who also recognizes her. Little does she know that he’s now a star NFL player.
the heart of the story…
Griffin has a well-earned “player” reputation but always admired Ruby despite his constant teasing. He and his twin brother Barrett were her next door neighbors and competed athletically while she watched from a tree house. He was genuinely interested in Ruby and volunteered to help her with her mission and both agreed to stay in the friend zone. Yeah, right. I loved how their friendship grew, both impacting each other during these lessons, getting the best of what each had to offer.
the narration…
Samantha Brentwood and Aiden Snow are first timers for me and I would happily listen to them again. He’s got a rich, deep and sexy voice and she personified Ruby. They gave wonderful performances and distinctive voices for the secondary characters as well.
the bottom line…
I took a chance on an unknown to me author and it paid off nicely. This was a wonderful love story with hidden depths and lots of fun moments. It was much, much more than I’d expected.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
May 30, 2025
4.2 Stars
One Liner: This was good!
Ruby, a shy small-town librarian, decided to hire an escort to get over her fear of intimacy without the risk of heartbreak. However, instead of a dating coach, Ruby’s childhood neighbor and pro football player, Griffin King, arrived. He wasn't the escort, but she didn’t know that!
As if the embarrassing mix-up wasn’t enough, Ruby stumbles across Griffin everywhere in their little town. He is more than happy to help her, but with their closeness increasing, Ruby has much to think about.
The story comes in Ruby and Griffin’s first-person POVs.
My Thoughts:
This is my first book by the author. Turns out, this is also the first in a new series, so I intend to read the others. A character from another series makes an appearance.
The pacing is slow, but it doesn’t feel boring. We get enough backstory and depth for the characters to be more than their physical appearances, though there are many references to how hot they look. Note that the characters start as clichés but gradually show they can do much better than that.
The MCs are easy to like. They are smart, sweet, and have their issues to deal with. They inevitably help each other grow, which comes across well as the story progresses. The chemistry is great, too, so it’s not long before we root for them.
There’s enough humor to make the readers laugh or chuckle. This balances the somber elements, especially the scenes dealing with health issues.
The side characters need a special mention. I liked Lauren right away. Wasn’t sure about Marcus, but he proved himself. Don’t be tricked by his OTT act. He is a sweet guy.
My favorite part has to be these hunky football players sighing over classic romances like Pride and Prejudice. How they react to the hand flex by Darcy is adorable!
The book is spicy, probably 4 or more. There’s some dirty talk, but not a lot. However, the story doesn’t feel rushed. There is enough time for feelings to develop.
We have not one but two epilogues. I love it when authors do this. A regular epilogue is great, but when it is followed by an extended one, it is a double bonus.
To summarize, Lessons in Heartbreak is a heartwarming, entertaining, and delightful romance set in a small town. Bring on the next book!
Thank you, NetGalley and Montlake, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #LessonsInHeartbreak
One Liner: This was good!
Ruby, a shy small-town librarian, decided to hire an escort to get over her fear of intimacy without the risk of heartbreak. However, instead of a dating coach, Ruby’s childhood neighbor and pro football player, Griffin King, arrived. He wasn't the escort, but she didn’t know that!
As if the embarrassing mix-up wasn’t enough, Ruby stumbles across Griffin everywhere in their little town. He is more than happy to help her, but with their closeness increasing, Ruby has much to think about.
The story comes in Ruby and Griffin’s first-person POVs.
My Thoughts:
This is my first book by the author. Turns out, this is also the first in a new series, so I intend to read the others. A character from another series makes an appearance.
The pacing is slow, but it doesn’t feel boring. We get enough backstory and depth for the characters to be more than their physical appearances, though there are many references to how hot they look. Note that the characters start as clichés but gradually show they can do much better than that.
The MCs are easy to like. They are smart, sweet, and have their issues to deal with. They inevitably help each other grow, which comes across well as the story progresses. The chemistry is great, too, so it’s not long before we root for them.
There’s enough humor to make the readers laugh or chuckle. This balances the somber elements, especially the scenes dealing with health issues.
The side characters need a special mention. I liked Lauren right away. Wasn’t sure about Marcus, but he proved himself. Don’t be tricked by his OTT act. He is a sweet guy.
My favorite part has to be these hunky football players sighing over classic romances like Pride and Prejudice. How they react to the hand flex by Darcy is adorable!
The book is spicy, probably 4 or more. There’s some dirty talk, but not a lot. However, the story doesn’t feel rushed. There is enough time for feelings to develop.
We have not one but two epilogues. I love it when authors do this. A regular epilogue is great, but when it is followed by an extended one, it is a double bonus.
To summarize, Lessons in Heartbreak is a heartwarming, entertaining, and delightful romance set in a small town. Bring on the next book!
Thank you, NetGalley and Montlake, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #LessonsInHeartbreak
March 25, 2026
Trying to go back and finally review a couple books I read during a busy weekend!
Lessons in Heartbreak is an overall sweet story that balances the lighter moments with some emotionally weighty challenges. Ruby (h) and Griffin (H) were childhood neighbors, though not friends. In the present, Ruby’s a librarian in a small town and Griffin’s a professional football player who’s had negative press so is hiding out in that same small town. Both are excellent at their jobs, but they’re also deeply wounded characters that are hiding their turmoil under the surface. Ruby has stifled her life in many ways, while Griffin is stuck in others’ perceptions of who he is. They both wish they could break free. Ruby gets nudged by a friend to take steps towards doing just that and it accidentally leads her back into Griffin’s notice.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and both have some experience, though H has a reputation as a player and the h’s singular experience was so awful that physical intimacy shuts her down. H had not been with anyone in months and there is a scene where he flirts with a barista briefly before he re-meets the h, but he’s shot down quickly by the barista and then he’s focused on the h. The H was in love with the woman who his twin brother ultimately married (and divorced) and some of that drama is recollected and discussed.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Shy librarian x outgoing football player
☆ Childhood neighbors to strangers to dating coach/mentee to friends to lovers
☆ Dating/intimacy lessons
☆ They help each other
☆ Finding belonging and acceptance
☆ Complicated family dynamics
☆ Mentions of serious health issues
☆ FMC has a serious scar
☆ Some small town shenanigans
☆ Side characters who matter, including a lil romance
☆ Cute animal sidekick
☆ Third act separation
☆ Some growth and healing
I found much of the story to be warm and funny, with pockets of heartaching revelations or internal processing. Ruby being comfortable with Griffin, despite not having seen him in years, when she couldn’t open up to others was interesting. Then there’s an earnestness to Griffin wanting to help Ruby and I loved how she ends up giving him the support he so desperately needed back. I had a challenging time with understanding Ruby’s motivations, though I have no experience with what she faced. I do think that her reactions were somewhat contrived to be able to set up the dynamics necessary for the relationship to develop as it did. I still loved how that development occurred however. It is a bit sudden when Ruby asks for Griffin’s help, but that’s when the sweetness really takes off.
The initial focus of this agreement isn’t on sex specifically so it doesn’t jump straight into physical intimacy. I did like the steamy scenes, once they started, but the highlights were of them being vulnerable. I think this author does emotional intimacy very well and that was the case here. They both still have large hang-ups that don’t magically get better, they continue through the story, even as they were being more open with each other. Some of their internal monologues and feelings about what’s held them back though could be circuitous and frustrating.
Ruby’s co-worker and friend who provides the push that inadvertently leads the main characters to their HEA was hilarious. Simultaneously, Griffin’s friend matches her energy in just the best way. The pairing up of them was a fun choice. Loved Ruby’s dog and his little highlights. My heart broke for Griffin’s relationship with his twin and I was worried that a reconciliation would be rushed for them, so how that entire situation was worked in felt well done given the background.
I’m not a fan of third act separations. For all that Ruby and Griffin grow together, neither grows quite enough to avoid it unfortunately. Their time apart didn’t feel wholly necessary, but it’s not the worst either. I liked how Griffin tried to bridge the gap. The plot device that’s used to bring them back together, firmly together, was alright. The epilogue is a HEA and is very cute. I know some readers wanted a little further out because of an uncertainty about Ruby, but I wasn’t bothered by it. Overall, I really liked this and it was an easy read to sink into.
Lessons in Heartbreak is an overall sweet story that balances the lighter moments with some emotionally weighty challenges. Ruby (h) and Griffin (H) were childhood neighbors, though not friends. In the present, Ruby’s a librarian in a small town and Griffin’s a professional football player who’s had negative press so is hiding out in that same small town. Both are excellent at their jobs, but they’re also deeply wounded characters that are hiding their turmoil under the surface. Ruby has stifled her life in many ways, while Griffin is stuck in others’ perceptions of who he is. They both wish they could break free. Ruby gets nudged by a friend to take steps towards doing just that and it accidentally leads her back into Griffin’s notice.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and both have some experience, though H has a reputation as a player and the h’s singular experience was so awful that physical intimacy shuts her down. H had not been with anyone in months and there is a scene where he flirts with a barista briefly before he re-meets the h, but he’s shot down quickly by the barista and then he’s focused on the h. The H was in love with the woman who his twin brother ultimately married (and divorced) and some of that drama is recollected and discussed.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Shy librarian x outgoing football player
☆ Childhood neighbors to strangers to dating coach/mentee to friends to lovers
☆ Dating/intimacy lessons
☆ They help each other
☆ Finding belonging and acceptance
☆ Complicated family dynamics
☆ Mentions of serious health issues
☆ FMC has a serious scar
☆ Some small town shenanigans
☆ Side characters who matter, including a lil romance
☆ Cute animal sidekick
☆ Third act separation
☆ Some growth and healing
I found much of the story to be warm and funny, with pockets of heartaching revelations or internal processing. Ruby being comfortable with Griffin, despite not having seen him in years, when she couldn’t open up to others was interesting. Then there’s an earnestness to Griffin wanting to help Ruby and I loved how she ends up giving him the support he so desperately needed back. I had a challenging time with understanding Ruby’s motivations, though I have no experience with what she faced. I do think that her reactions were somewhat contrived to be able to set up the dynamics necessary for the relationship to develop as it did. I still loved how that development occurred however. It is a bit sudden when Ruby asks for Griffin’s help, but that’s when the sweetness really takes off.
The initial focus of this agreement isn’t on sex specifically so it doesn’t jump straight into physical intimacy. I did like the steamy scenes, once they started, but the highlights were of them being vulnerable. I think this author does emotional intimacy very well and that was the case here. They both still have large hang-ups that don’t magically get better, they continue through the story, even as they were being more open with each other. Some of their internal monologues and feelings about what’s held them back though could be circuitous and frustrating.
Ruby’s co-worker and friend who provides the push that inadvertently leads the main characters to their HEA was hilarious. Simultaneously, Griffin’s friend matches her energy in just the best way. The pairing up of them was a fun choice. Loved Ruby’s dog and his little highlights. My heart broke for Griffin’s relationship with his twin and I was worried that a reconciliation would be rushed for them, so how that entire situation was worked in felt well done given the background.
I’m not a fan of third act separations. For all that Ruby and Griffin grow together, neither grows quite enough to avoid it unfortunately. Their time apart didn’t feel wholly necessary, but it’s not the worst either. I liked how Griffin tried to bridge the gap. The plot device that’s used to bring them back together, firmly together, was alright. The epilogue is a HEA and is very cute. I know some readers wanted a little further out because of an uncertainty about Ruby, but I wasn’t bothered by it. Overall, I really liked this and it was an easy read to sink into.
May 25, 2025
Karla Sorensen sure knows how to mess with my emotions! Lessons in Heartbreak had me smiling, swooning, and yep, even tearing up. Ruby and Griffin’s story is sweet and real, and I was totally hooked.
Ruby is a small-town librarian who’s looking to find her confidence again and step back into the dating world. When a blast from her childhood past, Griffin, walks back into her life, she thinks he might be just the guy to help her out. What starts as a no-strings-attached lessons quickly turns into something much deeper and turns out, they have way more chemistry than they thought.
And OMG, I’m obsessed with a guy who reads or at least starts reading to impress his "crush". Griffin might look like a typical football player, but this man is a softie. The small acts of service he does for Ruby? Ugh, SO CUTE. He’s thoughtful. Sweet. Basically, a walking green flag. Their romance is a bit of a slow burn, and yes, they made me mad a few times for not just going for it, but that tension made it all the more satisfying in the end.
Bonus points: Karla gave us not one, but TWO epilogues. Two!! Double the happily-ever-after, and honestly, I ate it up.
If you love small-town romance, swoony football player, slow burn, and emotional moments that sneak up on you, Lessons in Heartbreak needs to be on your radar. I savoured every single page and can’t wait for what’s next in this series!
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
❤️🔥 Football Player x Librarian
❤️🔥 He Falls First
❤️🔥 Opposites Attract
❤️🔥 Dating Lessons
Ruby is a small-town librarian who’s looking to find her confidence again and step back into the dating world. When a blast from her childhood past, Griffin, walks back into her life, she thinks he might be just the guy to help her out. What starts as a no-strings-attached lessons quickly turns into something much deeper and turns out, they have way more chemistry than they thought.
And OMG, I’m obsessed with a guy who reads or at least starts reading to impress his "crush". Griffin might look like a typical football player, but this man is a softie. The small acts of service he does for Ruby? Ugh, SO CUTE. He’s thoughtful. Sweet. Basically, a walking green flag. Their romance is a bit of a slow burn, and yes, they made me mad a few times for not just going for it, but that tension made it all the more satisfying in the end.
Bonus points: Karla gave us not one, but TWO epilogues. Two!! Double the happily-ever-after, and honestly, I ate it up.
If you love small-town romance, swoony football player, slow burn, and emotional moments that sneak up on you, Lessons in Heartbreak needs to be on your radar. I savoured every single page and can’t wait for what’s next in this series!
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
❤️🔥 Football Player x Librarian
❤️🔥 He Falls First
❤️🔥 Opposites Attract
❤️🔥 Dating Lessons
June 26, 2025
3 scarred ⭐️ 🎧
In here, we know better than most, that all our reading experiences are super subjective❤️❤️ I guess my personal experiences, does affect how I view this story.
Griffin and Ruby grew up as neighbors and got reacquainted as adults in a very sweet meet cute. She is a shy librarian and he is the gorgeous football player. He has two weeks to teach her about love because she has been afraid to live fully. Slowly they develop feelings for each other and the story slowly, very slowly progresses.
I struggled with Ruby from the get go, I didn’t like how she talked about herself, for example
“I feel like Frankenstein’s monster” because of her scar. Would she rather have been without it?
Spoiler:
She has a large scar from a heart transplant and she is so affected by that scar, and that infuriated me! I get, she would be self conscious about it, but her reaction was too much.
Personally I have scars, many and large and I wear them like a badge of honor, because what is the alternative?
A previous lover compared her body to a having sex with a corpse, first of all gross, secondly she is in her 30’s, how does she not have the maturity to have a better perspective, than to let an idiot control her narrative. It’s so grotesque that any adult would reject that. ( I am projecting of course)
She cries when Griffin sees her body 🤦♀️ I can understand if she had been a young girl, but she is a woman!!
As a battle scared woman myself, that did influence my reading experience.
I listened to the audiobook, 🎧 and I am not sure it’s the way to go with this one. The voice of Ruby comes across as very, very young. The narrator is doing a good job, it’s the dialogue, and intonation, all combined. Too young.
It made it, not very sexy tbh. Almost cringy because I felt he was an adult and she was a child. I know I was told she was an adult, but my brain didn’t compute! “
Griffin and Barrett’s relationship is also a little juvenile, you would think they could talk it out? Again I am told they are adults, but l am shown children.
“His eyes were full of wondrous heat” it’s too much for even me! I guess I was so annoyed with her at this point that she could do no right.
It’s a heartfelt story though, and I see the appeal, because it addresses some serious issues about mortality and courage to live while we can.
It’s in dual POV. There was no tension or angst and I was not super invested.
All in all, this was not for me. It’s well written, the pacing was a little off in the middle but the development and growth between them is well done. The growth from both characters is sweet.
It’s my first book by this author, and we are probably just not a good match up. Please do challenge me if I am wrong🙏
Should you read it? I don’t know, a lot of people love it. I didn’t. It was too slow and nothing happens. The audio 🎧 was off for me!
In here, we know better than most, that all our reading experiences are super subjective❤️❤️ I guess my personal experiences, does affect how I view this story.
Griffin and Ruby grew up as neighbors and got reacquainted as adults in a very sweet meet cute. She is a shy librarian and he is the gorgeous football player. He has two weeks to teach her about love because she has been afraid to live fully. Slowly they develop feelings for each other and the story slowly, very slowly progresses.
I struggled with Ruby from the get go, I didn’t like how she talked about herself, for example
“I feel like Frankenstein’s monster” because of her scar. Would she rather have been without it?
Spoiler:
She has a large scar from a heart transplant and she is so affected by that scar, and that infuriated me! I get, she would be self conscious about it, but her reaction was too much.
Personally I have scars, many and large and I wear them like a badge of honor, because what is the alternative?
A previous lover compared her body to a having sex with a corpse, first of all gross, secondly she is in her 30’s, how does she not have the maturity to have a better perspective, than to let an idiot control her narrative. It’s so grotesque that any adult would reject that. ( I am projecting of course)
She cries when Griffin sees her body 🤦♀️ I can understand if she had been a young girl, but she is a woman!!
As a battle scared woman myself, that did influence my reading experience.
I listened to the audiobook, 🎧 and I am not sure it’s the way to go with this one. The voice of Ruby comes across as very, very young. The narrator is doing a good job, it’s the dialogue, and intonation, all combined. Too young.
It made it, not very sexy tbh. Almost cringy because I felt he was an adult and she was a child. I know I was told she was an adult, but my brain didn’t compute! “
Griffin and Barrett’s relationship is also a little juvenile, you would think they could talk it out? Again I am told they are adults, but l am shown children.
“His eyes were full of wondrous heat” it’s too much for even me! I guess I was so annoyed with her at this point that she could do no right.
It’s a heartfelt story though, and I see the appeal, because it addresses some serious issues about mortality and courage to live while we can.
It’s in dual POV. There was no tension or angst and I was not super invested.
All in all, this was not for me. It’s well written, the pacing was a little off in the middle but the development and growth between them is well done. The growth from both characters is sweet.
It’s my first book by this author, and we are probably just not a good match up. Please do challenge me if I am wrong🙏
Should you read it? I don’t know, a lot of people love it. I didn’t. It was too slow and nothing happens. The audio 🎧 was off for me!
May 4, 2025
I love a new spin on an old trope, and Karla Sorensen always does it up right. I was smiling from this couple’s introduction, and the story surprised me in the best of ways. Sure, the love lessons aspect is present, but it’s much more a story about a carefree man who finds himself falling for a careful woman, just as she’s decided to be a little bit wild. I loved that our hero was thrown off his axis, and I also loved that the lessons storyline evolved in an unexpected way. I was genuinely surprised by some of the subplots, and the story kept me on my toes. First and foremost, however, the characters were great together, and I was eager to see them find their way towards happily ever after. Another win from Sorensen!
The story follows Ruby, a librarian who usually lives vicariously through books. When a risqué birthday present forces Ruby to confront the reality that she’s never experienced the best parts of sex and dating, she decides to hire an escort to help her feel more comfortable putting herself out there. She’s not planning on hitting the sheets with the guy, she just wants his help. So when her former neighbor shows up at the appointment, Ruby isn’t sure what to think. She hasn’t seen Griffin since they were teenagers, and he was always a bit of a chaotic pest at the time. Now a pro athlete taking a break from the spotlight, Griffin is beyond intrigued to discover all the reasons why Ruby felt the need to hire a professional. As he steps in instead, Griffin grows closer to Ruby in a way neither expected.
The start of a new series, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from these characters, but I really enjoyed what I found. For reasons I will not explain, Ruby hasn’t been living life to the fullest, and she’s looking forward to the opportunity to get out of her comfort zone. Though she hasn’t seen Griffin in years, she’s more comfortable around him than most men, and that allows her to open up more. I loved that Griffin was so patient and supportive. He’s a little wild and carefree, but he’s beyond steady with Ruby. Neither expected to fall during their lessons, so I loved watching them form an emotional connection that runs deeper than anticipated. It was great to see them both learn to love themselves more along the way, and the story goes in some emotional (potentially triggering) directions. It was a refreshing surprise, and an excellent series starter for sure.
The story follows Ruby, a librarian who usually lives vicariously through books. When a risqué birthday present forces Ruby to confront the reality that she’s never experienced the best parts of sex and dating, she decides to hire an escort to help her feel more comfortable putting herself out there. She’s not planning on hitting the sheets with the guy, she just wants his help. So when her former neighbor shows up at the appointment, Ruby isn’t sure what to think. She hasn’t seen Griffin since they were teenagers, and he was always a bit of a chaotic pest at the time. Now a pro athlete taking a break from the spotlight, Griffin is beyond intrigued to discover all the reasons why Ruby felt the need to hire a professional. As he steps in instead, Griffin grows closer to Ruby in a way neither expected.
The start of a new series, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from these characters, but I really enjoyed what I found. For reasons I will not explain, Ruby hasn’t been living life to the fullest, and she’s looking forward to the opportunity to get out of her comfort zone. Though she hasn’t seen Griffin in years, she’s more comfortable around him than most men, and that allows her to open up more. I loved that Griffin was so patient and supportive. He’s a little wild and carefree, but he’s beyond steady with Ruby. Neither expected to fall during their lessons, so I loved watching them form an emotional connection that runs deeper than anticipated. It was great to see them both learn to love themselves more along the way, and the story goes in some emotional (potentially triggering) directions. It was a refreshing surprise, and an excellent series starter for sure.
May 26, 2025
Lessons in Heartbreak by Karla Sorensen
The Kings series #1. Contemporary romance. Alternating first person POV.
Ruby Tate has always followed the rules and exceeded her parents expectations. At thirty, she’s a respected small-town librarian with the right degrees and volunteering. She has friends but avoids intimacy. She’s just not comfortable with that. Wanting to get past her fears, she hires an escort thinking that’s the best way to avoid heartbreak. She mistakenly believes Griffin King is the escort when he sits at her table in the coffee shop. She remembers Griffin as the twin that was always teasing her when they lived next door to each other. At fifteen, she didn’t know how to deal with that. Even now, she’s not sure, but she’s ready to learn.
Griffin King is in town to scope out a potential football contract. He can’t believe he’s run into the shy Ruby again, and he’s happy to play the role of escort and teach her whatever she wants.
Swoony romance with innocence and a player mixing it up. Although Griffin doesn’t really come off as a player, but maybe that’s because he’s more or less, hiding out in a friend’s house. The two have chemistry left over from their teenage years and time hasn’t lessened the attraction. Sizzling banter and fun to make Ruby comfortable, this couple has all the vibes that make you want to keep reading. A bit spicy, a bit sweet, a whole lot of romance and love.
Alluring. It’s my first book by this author and I’m going to be looking at the backlist.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
The Kings series #1. Contemporary romance. Alternating first person POV.
Ruby Tate has always followed the rules and exceeded her parents expectations. At thirty, she’s a respected small-town librarian with the right degrees and volunteering. She has friends but avoids intimacy. She’s just not comfortable with that. Wanting to get past her fears, she hires an escort thinking that’s the best way to avoid heartbreak. She mistakenly believes Griffin King is the escort when he sits at her table in the coffee shop. She remembers Griffin as the twin that was always teasing her when they lived next door to each other. At fifteen, she didn’t know how to deal with that. Even now, she’s not sure, but she’s ready to learn.
Griffin King is in town to scope out a potential football contract. He can’t believe he’s run into the shy Ruby again, and he’s happy to play the role of escort and teach her whatever she wants.
Swoony romance with innocence and a player mixing it up. Although Griffin doesn’t really come off as a player, but maybe that’s because he’s more or less, hiding out in a friend’s house. The two have chemistry left over from their teenage years and time hasn’t lessened the attraction. Sizzling banter and fun to make Ruby comfortable, this couple has all the vibes that make you want to keep reading. A bit spicy, a bit sweet, a whole lot of romance and love.
Alluring. It’s my first book by this author and I’m going to be looking at the backlist.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
May 25, 2025
Çok sevdim, çok eğlendim. 😍
Tam benim zevkime uygun bir kitaptı.Toksik ilişki yok, yanlış anlamalar yok... Mis mis 💖
Griffin tam anlamıyla Green Flag Book Boyfriends'iydi. Bayılırım 🤤
Ruby ise güçlü yapısı, kitap sevgisi, nezaketi ve utangaç tarafıyla çok tatlıydı 🥰İkisi bir araya geldiğinde tam yemeliklerdi.Neden?
Ruby bazı sebeplerden dolayı karşı cinsle etkileşimde sorunlar yaşamaktadır. Ama bu devran böyle dönmez diyerek ipleri eline almak ister.Ve karşısında Griffin'i bulur.
Bu etkileşimde sevdiğim nokta, birbirlerini gerçekten dinlemeleri. Her ikisinin de üzerine yapışmış etiketlere değil de gerçekten kim olduklarına dikkat etmelerini sevdim. Griffin'in zamanla yavaş yavaş değiştim, büyüdüm.Ama bunu bir tek ben fark ediyorum sözüne de üzüldüm. Etiketler kolay kolay yok olmuyor maalesef.
Birde sadece kadın karakterin değil, erkek karakterinde hislerini okumayı sevdim. Hani geçiştirme cümleleri değildi bunlar. Kendindeki duygusal değişime şaşırması, nasıl tepki vereceğini bilememesi, nabzı hızlandığında telaşlanması.. Bana çok iyi geldi.
Son olarak Jane Austen sahneleri beni gülümsetti. 🤣 Özellikle de TV yapımlarını izledikleri sahneler.Güzel bir detay olmuş.
Tam benim zevkime uygun bir kitaptı.Toksik ilişki yok, yanlış anlamalar yok... Mis mis 💖
Griffin tam anlamıyla Green Flag Book Boyfriends'iydi. Bayılırım 🤤
Ruby ise güçlü yapısı, kitap sevgisi, nezaketi ve utangaç tarafıyla çok tatlıydı 🥰İkisi bir araya geldiğinde tam yemeliklerdi.Neden?
Ruby bazı sebeplerden dolayı karşı cinsle etkileşimde sorunlar yaşamaktadır. Ama bu devran böyle dönmez diyerek ipleri eline almak ister.Ve karşısında Griffin'i bulur.
Bu etkileşimde sevdiğim nokta, birbirlerini gerçekten dinlemeleri. Her ikisinin de üzerine yapışmış etiketlere değil de gerçekten kim olduklarına dikkat etmelerini sevdim. Griffin'in zamanla yavaş yavaş değiştim, büyüdüm.Ama bunu bir tek ben fark ediyorum sözüne de üzüldüm. Etiketler kolay kolay yok olmuyor maalesef.
Birde sadece kadın karakterin değil, erkek karakterinde hislerini okumayı sevdim. Hani geçiştirme cümleleri değildi bunlar. Kendindeki duygusal değişime şaşırması, nasıl tepki vereceğini bilememesi, nabzı hızlandığında telaşlanması.. Bana çok iyi geldi.
Son olarak Jane Austen sahneleri beni gülümsetti. 🤣 Özellikle de TV yapımlarını izledikleri sahneler.Güzel bir detay olmuş.
June 17, 2025
I went into this thinking this was going to be some playboy NFL player x shy girl easy read romcom and I was sorely mistaken.
I mean yes it did have a romcom vibe to it.
Banter & lovable side characters.
But Rubys underlying story was a gut punch.
Ruby x Griffin 💕
NFL hottie x shy librarian
“Lessons”
Childhood neighbors
Funny meet cute
Opposites attract
I am extremely happy I picked this up.
I mean yes it did have a romcom vibe to it.
Banter & lovable side characters.
But Rubys underlying story was a gut punch.
Ruby x Griffin 💕
NFL hottie x shy librarian
“Lessons”
Childhood neighbors
Funny meet cute
Opposites attract
I am extremely happy I picked this up.
June 8, 2025
"Was that the thing I’d been missing all this time?... Being known by someone intimately and trusting that they liked what they saw enough to stay. That was it, wasn’t it?
-----------------------------
Audio included with Kindle Unlimited
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Audio included with Kindle Unlimited
June 6, 2025
I like Lessons in Heartbreak. The story is romantic and sweet and funny at the same time. Griffin can take allthe credit being sassy hero. I love him.
Ruby is the perfect match for him.
It has been a while since I read Miss Sorensen's book. And it is absolute delight that I picked up this book.
4 stars
Ruby is the perfect match for him.
It has been a while since I read Miss Sorensen's book. And it is absolute delight that I picked up this book.
4 stars
May 8, 2025
Griffin and Ruby were adorable. You can tell from the blurb that there are the “love lessons” trope is at play here, but this book went so much deeper than that. We’ve all seen the movies where the couple spends a few weeks together and it doesn’t take long for those feelings of love to break through because when you know, you know. That’s exactly what happened here.
The two weeks Griffin and Ruby spent together were about quality over quantity. They truly got to know each other in a way that they hid from others. Griffin confronted some hard truths about himself, his past and career as an NFL player. Ruby likewise tapped into her fears surrounding love and why it was hard for her to truly live life to the fullest. They brought out the best in each other, and I was rooting for them to take a chance on love together, and it was so gratifying when they did! The epilogues were beautiful as well, and I have a feeling Griffin’s twin brother, Barrett, may be getting a book!
SN - I totally got Maxton Hall/James & Ruby vibes from some of the couple’s interactions/a few scenes in the book. I was very happy to see in the acknowledgements that the author loved and was partially influenced by that series!!
The two weeks Griffin and Ruby spent together were about quality over quantity. They truly got to know each other in a way that they hid from others. Griffin confronted some hard truths about himself, his past and career as an NFL player. Ruby likewise tapped into her fears surrounding love and why it was hard for her to truly live life to the fullest. They brought out the best in each other, and I was rooting for them to take a chance on love together, and it was so gratifying when they did! The epilogues were beautiful as well, and I have a feeling Griffin’s twin brother, Barrett, may be getting a book!
SN - I totally got Maxton Hall/James & Ruby vibes from some of the couple’s interactions/a few scenes in the book. I was very happy to see in the acknowledgements that the author loved and was partially influenced by that series!!
June 26, 2025
5 stars
I LOVED this!
It was a classic shy librarian + flirty pro athlete pairing, done in a way that had me kicking my feet.
Premise: Ruby’s hired an escort to teach her how to date. Griffin is her childhood neighbour and, well, *not* an escort, but for romance shenanigans reasons… you know where this is going. 🤭
The story had me giggling and blushing (their chemistry was so cute and even though Ruby tried to resist, they were so into each other!), but it also had emotional and heartbreaking moments that got me all teary. Was there a whole lot of wish fulfilment? Yes, but hey, realism is overrated. 🤣
I’ve seen mixed reviews for this book, but I had such as a good time listening to the audiobook (free on KU) so maybe consume this with your ears instead of your eyes!
I LOVED this!
It was a classic shy librarian + flirty pro athlete pairing, done in a way that had me kicking my feet.
Premise: Ruby’s hired an escort to teach her how to date. Griffin is her childhood neighbour and, well, *not* an escort, but for romance shenanigans reasons… you know where this is going. 🤭
The story had me giggling and blushing (their chemistry was so cute and even though Ruby tried to resist, they were so into each other!), but it also had emotional and heartbreaking moments that got me all teary. Was there a whole lot of wish fulfilment? Yes, but hey, realism is overrated. 🤣
I’ve seen mixed reviews for this book, but I had such as a good time listening to the audiobook (free on KU) so maybe consume this with your ears instead of your eyes!
June 3, 2025
For right now, I just have two thing to say about this story.
I hate that I am limited by 5 stars. This isn’t a 5 star story. It doesn’t even touch most of the books out there with 5 star ratings. This story transcends all rules of rating and reviewing and I don’t know if I have the words to describe what I just experienced … stay tuned.
And Karla, if you happen to read this, thank you for this journey.
Okay, three things! The performance by Samantha Brentmoor & Aiden Snow was fantastic, but Samantha, she was bigger than even outstanding and I just want to hug her for so vividly and poignantly bringing Ruby to life!
I hate that I am limited by 5 stars. This isn’t a 5 star story. It doesn’t even touch most of the books out there with 5 star ratings. This story transcends all rules of rating and reviewing and I don’t know if I have the words to describe what I just experienced … stay tuned.
And Karla, if you happen to read this, thank you for this journey.
Okay, three things! The performance by Samantha Brentmoor & Aiden Snow was fantastic, but Samantha, she was bigger than even outstanding and I just want to hug her for so vividly and poignantly bringing Ruby to life!
May 20, 2025
DNF @ 25%
Boring AF
Boring AF
September 4, 2025
This was good but not my preferred type of characters.
June 25, 2025
LESSONS IN HEARTBREAK
● Griffin & Ruby
● pro football player / librarian
● Griffin is a twin and spent his life competing with his brother
● Ruby has a condition where she feels she can’t get in a serious relationship
● as kids Ruby lived next door until her family moved away
● small town romance
● friends to lovers
● Griffin & Ruby
● pro football player / librarian
● Griffin is a twin and spent his life competing with his brother
● Ruby has a condition where she feels she can’t get in a serious relationship
● as kids Ruby lived next door until her family moved away
● small town romance
● friends to lovers
Audiobook source: Audible
Narrator: Aiden Snow & Samantha Brentmoor
Length: 10h 23m
May 25, 2025
It was rollercoaster of all romantic tropes I knew and somehow it didn’t get to my heart. Idea was not bad. Quiet girl and popular womaniser football player. What can go wrong? Everything.
Can be minimal not crucial spoilers
First, characters. They didn’t stick out to me. She was so quiet that bland at the beginning and then suddenly she has character? Excuse me, but it was so random, especially with her outburst that for me felt as just random way of starting conflict situation. Like they already were dancing horizontal tango and she started her speech about how ugly she is. Girl, be real
He is literally baobab tree. Cause every time she saw him i got all description of his thick arms, thick legs and all thick. I got it. He is baobab man. Also what for me was big “no” it’s his aura of lady man. Like every girl in universe wants him. Fine, he’s manwhore. But he behaves with her like it’s his first woman. Maybe if characters weren’t 30+ i can believe it, but let’s be real we all got some experience when we 30. And here we have. One who is scared of toy for pleasure and one who gets hard when he zipped her dress. Sorry, i don’t believe that
All their relationship felt forced to me. Like i was forced to believe in that fairy tale with “fake date” trope but all i felt is eye roll. Maybe I’m not in fairytale mood or just want some close to reality romance. So that is just not my story
Unfortunately it’s 1 star ⭐
Anyway, thanks NetGalley and author for opportunity to read that ARC in exchange of my honest opinions!
Can be minimal not crucial spoilers
First, characters. They didn’t stick out to me. She was so quiet that bland at the beginning and then suddenly she has character? Excuse me, but it was so random, especially with her outburst that for me felt as just random way of starting conflict situation. Like they already were dancing horizontal tango and she started her speech about how ugly she is. Girl, be real
He is literally baobab tree. Cause every time she saw him i got all description of his thick arms, thick legs and all thick. I got it. He is baobab man. Also what for me was big “no” it’s his aura of lady man. Like every girl in universe wants him. Fine, he’s manwhore. But he behaves with her like it’s his first woman. Maybe if characters weren’t 30+ i can believe it, but let’s be real we all got some experience when we 30. And here we have. One who is scared of toy for pleasure and one who gets hard when he zipped her dress. Sorry, i don’t believe that
All their relationship felt forced to me. Like i was forced to believe in that fairy tale with “fake date” trope but all i felt is eye roll. Maybe I’m not in fairytale mood or just want some close to reality romance. So that is just not my story
Unfortunately it’s 1 star ⭐
Anyway, thanks NetGalley and author for opportunity to read that ARC in exchange of my honest opinions!
June 3, 2025
Quickie review and spoilers
Read this a couple days ago, I enjoyed it but it was pretty predictable. I enjoy this author's writing but there are certain things she won't let go 🤦🏽♀️
Anyways
They knew each other very casually as kids met up again as adults when she mistakes his for an escort she hired to help her have confidence when dating.
The h had a heart transplant previously and her scars and what she'd been through had left their mark on her affecting her confidence with the opposite sex.
They strike a deal where he'd take the place of the escort for the short time he's in town.
The H is a professional football player who's estranged from his twin brother and has switched teams. His recent comments got him into a little hot water so he's been laying low in his agent's home.
What follows is a cute slide into love.
********
Innocent Vs manwhore, it's been a few months for him. For her I think she had one encounter before, idk it's vague
No real details on his past and it's not thrown in my face
He was involved with the woman his brother eventually married
Separation 🤦🏽♀️
Epilogue 10 years out no kids because the h can't have any. We're told given her condition her life span is kinda up in the air and while I think in real life you must embrace every opportunity afforded to you I would've liked another epilogue another 10 years out 😭. I like to leave my mcs in a guaranteed hea but that's a me issue.
I loved the secondary romance between their friends almost, maybe more than the mcs 🤷🏾♀️
All in all not bad but 🤷🏾♀️
Read this a couple days ago, I enjoyed it but it was pretty predictable. I enjoy this author's writing but there are certain things she won't let go 🤦🏽♀️
Anyways
They knew each other very casually as kids met up again as adults when she mistakes his for an escort she hired to help her have confidence when dating.
The h had a heart transplant previously and her scars and what she'd been through had left their mark on her affecting her confidence with the opposite sex.
They strike a deal where he'd take the place of the escort for the short time he's in town.
The H is a professional football player who's estranged from his twin brother and has switched teams. His recent comments got him into a little hot water so he's been laying low in his agent's home.
What follows is a cute slide into love.
********
Innocent Vs manwhore, it's been a few months for him. For her I think she had one encounter before, idk it's vague
No real details on his past and it's not thrown in my face
He was involved with the woman his brother eventually married
Separation 🤦🏽♀️
Epilogue 10 years out no kids because the h can't have any. We're told given her condition her life span is kinda up in the air and while I think in real life you must embrace every opportunity afforded to you I would've liked another epilogue another 10 years out 😭. I like to leave my mcs in a guaranteed hea but that's a me issue.
I loved the secondary romance between their friends almost, maybe more than the mcs 🤷🏾♀️
All in all not bad but 🤷🏾♀️
July 21, 2025
Audio:
5 stars for Samantha Brentmoor, and Aiden Snow. If you get the kindle unlimited book you get to listen to the audio for free!
Book: 3 stars
Not amazing but kept me entertained the whole time. I did enjoy seeing Ruby warm up and gain more confidence with Griffin. But I would say there was a lot of telling rather than showing for some parts, like Griffins relationship with his brother and niece and nephew. Also with Ruby and her life growing up to make her this way..
It felt like something was missing, but not enough to make this not enjoyable. I would say if you want a quick easy romance with little angst, then this would work for you!
5 stars for Samantha Brentmoor, and Aiden Snow. If you get the kindle unlimited book you get to listen to the audio for free!
Book: 3 stars
Not amazing but kept me entertained the whole time. I did enjoy seeing Ruby warm up and gain more confidence with Griffin. But I would say there was a lot of telling rather than showing for some parts, like Griffins relationship with his brother and niece and nephew. Also with Ruby and her life growing up to make her this way..
It felt like something was missing, but not enough to make this not enjoyable. I would say if you want a quick easy romance with little angst, then this would work for you!
April 8, 2025
i had to read this as soon as it dropped on netgalley because 1) dating coach is my kryptonite and such a rare plot 2). its karla sorenson duh. this was EVERYTHING. it has the classic angsty heartfelt tone that karla is so good at it and i nearly cried so many times. I related SO much to ruby and her struggle with having new experiences. griffin was such a dream. a true and loving and dedicated man. they both loved each other wholeheartedly. the extended epilogue warmed my heart and gave me everything I needed. probably my new favorite book of hers to date. i hope everyone reads this when it releases. thank you to Netgalley and Montlake for the ARC!
September 6, 2025
I loved it. I loved LOVED thisssss soo much, it was soo 😍 cute....
May 20, 2025
Lessons in Heartbreak is an amazing start to Karla’s new series. Griffin and Ruby’s story was so beautiful and heartwarming, I couldn’t put this book down. I loved all the side characters and I can’t wait for what’s next in this series.
April 14, 2026
I have never wished for a zero star option on Goodreads more than I do right now after finishing this steaming pile of garbage.
This book tested my patience, my sanity, and my will to keep reading. Barrett deserved better. I deserved better. Even the zero star button I don’t have deserved better.
I read the second book first and I loved Barrett so much I gave it 5 stars.. so, naturally, I thought I’m definitely going to love the first one too…The optimism. The delusion. The betrayal.
Griffin is the most insufferable manchild fkn douchebag I have ever had the displeasure of reading about.. and Ruby wasn't all that great either. 凸( •̀_•́ )凸
He fked around his whole life and every time he found out, cried victim, threw a tantrum, then turned around a took it out on his brother.
why? because he's apparently allergic to any type of accountability.
He, oh so dramatically, opens up to Ruby about his traumatic past:
In college, he skipped most of his classes, partied nonstop, was drunk 24/7, ignored his coach, then got himself arrested on campus for indecent exposure.
Naturally, the school wanted to revoke his scholarship and kick him off the team. You know... consequences?!
Bitch… be for real!!
How many chances is this allegedly grown man supposed to get?
Fine.. let's give him a chance and see what happens.
They go pro, play against each other, and Barrett’s team wins. Griffin’s response? A public tantrum. Because of course.
Oh, really? You don’t say ¬_¬
Ok fine.. it didn't work, but maybe he’ll grow from this
Barrett signs on to coach a team in the same division. So what does this mature, emotionally stable adult do? He parks himself at a bar, gets drunk, and runs his mouth to a reporter… while a mic is literally sitting in front of his face.
And when this absolute masterpiece of PR statement gets published the next day, and his agent rightfully loses it, who does Griffin blame? You guessed it, Barrett! Because why would personal accountability suddenly enter the chat?
Never mind that Barrett didn’t make a single comment about the article, in Griffin’s warped little universe, he’s still the villain.
And don't even get me started on the issue of his and Barrett's Ex wife's relationship. I simply do not have the emotional stamina to unpack that mess. I choose peace.
TL;DR: Zero stars. Would not recommend. Read Barrett's book.
This book tested my patience, my sanity, and my will to keep reading. Barrett deserved better. I deserved better. Even the zero star button I don’t have deserved better.
I read the second book first and I loved Barrett so much I gave it 5 stars.. so, naturally, I thought I’m definitely going to love the first one too…The optimism. The delusion. The betrayal.
Griffin is the most insufferable manchild fkn douchebag I have ever had the displeasure of reading about.. and Ruby wasn't all that great either. 凸( •̀_•́ )凸
He fked around his whole life and every time he found out, cried victim, threw a tantrum, then turned around a took it out on his brother.
why? because he's apparently allergic to any type of accountability.
He, oh so dramatically, opens up to Ruby about his traumatic past:
In college, he skipped most of his classes, partied nonstop, was drunk 24/7, ignored his coach, then got himself arrested on campus for indecent exposure.
Naturally, the school wanted to revoke his scholarship and kick him off the team. You know... consequences?!
“But they didn’t kick you out?”
“Because of Barrett.”
“Ah.”
I smiled a grim smile. “He went to the disciplinary board and convinced them to let me stay. Vouched for me, as his brother. Said the team needed me if we wanted to win, and he’d personally make sure I didn’t screw up any more if they gave me one more chance.”
She hummed in understanding. “And they listened to him?”
“Yeah. All he said when he came to my apartment to tell me he’d done that was, ‘Why do you think I have to work so hard? So I’m the one they’ll take seriously when shit like this happens. And as long as you’re around, it will keep happening.’”
“Oh, Griffin,” she sighed. “He never even gave you a chance to change, did he?”
Bitch… be for real!!
How many chances is this allegedly grown man supposed to get?
Fine.. let's give him a chance and see what happens.
They go pro, play against each other, and Barrett’s team wins. Griffin’s response? A public tantrum. Because of course.
“I wasn’t particularly gracious as a loser”
Oh, really? You don’t say ¬_¬
Ok fine.. it didn't work, but maybe he’ll grow from this
Barrett signs on to coach a team in the same division. So what does this mature, emotionally stable adult do? He parks himself at a bar, gets drunk, and runs his mouth to a reporter… while a mic is literally sitting in front of his face.
“My brother is obnoxious when he wins, because he always prepares as if there’s no other possible outcome,” I said, only the slightest tinge of bitterness coloring my tone. “And hopefully, he’ll be a very ungracious loser in his new divisional team, whoever he goes up against. I can’t wait to see it.”
“You two certainly generate enough headlines to keep us busy all year round, don’t you?”
“You asking him about me too?”
“You know I can’t kiss and tell, Griffin.”
I leaned in, holding her relentless eye contact. “Kissing my brother would be like sucking face with a dead body. He has no sense of humor.”
And when this absolute masterpiece of PR statement gets published the next day, and his agent rightfully loses it, who does Griffin blame? You guessed it, Barrett! Because why would personal accountability suddenly enter the chat?
Never mind that Barrett didn’t make a single comment about the article, in Griffin’s warped little universe, he’s still the villain.
“The article ran, front and fucking center in the biggest sports publication in the world. Sound bites from that tiny mic sitting right in the middle of the table were blasted everywhere. My uptight, type-A, militantly disciplined brother came out smelling like fucking roses, and I was the single playboy asshole who couldn’t keep his mouth shut.”
And don't even get me started on the issue of his and Barrett's Ex wife's relationship. I simply do not have the emotional stamina to unpack that mess. I choose peace.
TL;DR: Zero stars. Would not recommend. Read Barrett's book.
August 5, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
Tohle už je moje druhá kniha od Karly Sorensen a po přečtení můžu s klidem říct, že já a Karla jsme si fakt sedly. Její styl psaní mi neskutečně vyhovuje, a i tentokrát se mi kniha četla úplně sama.😍👌🏻
Hned na začátku se seznamujeme s Ruby, která má problém se vztahy. Přiznám se, že jsem si nejdřív říkala, jestli se příběh nevydá trochu podobným směrem jako Rovnice lásky od Helen Hoang. Nakonec ale bylo všechno úplně jinak. Ruby sice vyhledá služby profesionálního společníka, ale důvody, které ji k tomu vedou, jsou úplně jiné, a právě tahle část příběhu mě nakonec dost překvapila.😮
O tématiku, kterou autorka v příběhu otevírá, jsem se nikdy hlouběji nezajímala a vlastně ani osobně neznám nikoho, kdo by si něčím podobným procházel. O to víc mě překvapilo, jak moc mě Rubyin příběh zasáhl. Najednou to nebyla jen odpočinková romance, ale příběh s mnohem větší hloubkou, než jsem původně čekala.👌🏻
A samotná hlavní dvojice? Ta mě neskutečně bavila. On profesionální sportovec, playboy s bohatou minulostí a ještě horším vztahem se svým bratrem. Ona tichá, kontrolou posedlá knihovnice. 🤭 Úplné protiklady, ale právě proto jejich vztah fungoval tak dobře a jejich chemii jsem si opravdu užívala.🫠
Navíc mě teď neskutečně zajímá Barrettův příběh, protože Griffinův bratr si rozhodně zaslouží vlastní prostor. Takže doufám, že se překladu dalšího dílu dočkáme co nejdřív! 🩷
Celkově mě tato kniha bavila od začátku do konce. Čekala jsem typickou odpočinkovou romanťárnu, ale některá témata mě opravdu překvapila a právě díky nim mi kniha ještě nějakou dobu zůstane v hlavě. 💕
Moc děkuji @nakladatelstvijota a @lucie.pise za poskytnutí knihy v rámci spolupráce.
Tohle už je moje druhá kniha od Karly Sorensen a po přečtení můžu s klidem říct, že já a Karla jsme si fakt sedly. Její styl psaní mi neskutečně vyhovuje, a i tentokrát se mi kniha četla úplně sama.😍👌🏻
Hned na začátku se seznamujeme s Ruby, která má problém se vztahy. Přiznám se, že jsem si nejdřív říkala, jestli se příběh nevydá trochu podobným směrem jako Rovnice lásky od Helen Hoang. Nakonec ale bylo všechno úplně jinak. Ruby sice vyhledá služby profesionálního společníka, ale důvody, které ji k tomu vedou, jsou úplně jiné, a právě tahle část příběhu mě nakonec dost překvapila.😮
O tématiku, kterou autorka v příběhu otevírá, jsem se nikdy hlouběji nezajímala a vlastně ani osobně neznám nikoho, kdo by si něčím podobným procházel. O to víc mě překvapilo, jak moc mě Rubyin příběh zasáhl. Najednou to nebyla jen odpočinková romance, ale příběh s mnohem větší hloubkou, než jsem původně čekala.👌🏻
A samotná hlavní dvojice? Ta mě neskutečně bavila. On profesionální sportovec, playboy s bohatou minulostí a ještě horším vztahem se svým bratrem. Ona tichá, kontrolou posedlá knihovnice. 🤭 Úplné protiklady, ale právě proto jejich vztah fungoval tak dobře a jejich chemii jsem si opravdu užívala.🫠
Navíc mě teď neskutečně zajímá Barrettův příběh, protože Griffinův bratr si rozhodně zaslouží vlastní prostor. Takže doufám, že se překladu dalšího dílu dočkáme co nejdřív! 🩷
Celkově mě tato kniha bavila od začátku do konce. Čekala jsem typickou odpočinkovou romanťárnu, ale některá témata mě opravdu překvapila a právě díky nim mi kniha ještě nějakou dobu zůstane v hlavě. 💕
Moc děkuji @nakladatelstvijota a @lucie.pise za poskytnutí knihy v rámci spolupráce.
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