A Conflict of Interest

Love in Logistics #2

by Lily Seabrooke

Kelcey will never talk to Veronica again. At least, not knowingly.

After a revolving door of dating and breaking up with Veronica Preston, Kelcey has stepped back and sworn never to get lured in again. And she definitely doesn’t spend her time thinking of Veronica.

Veronica, who’s cruised by her whole life on looking good and never developing any interpersonal skills, is only finally facing her issues because of the one who got away—and a woman, at that. And when a work contract brings them in contact on Kelcey’s biggest work project to date, the only solution to Veronica’s mind is to hide her real identity.

But when their connection starts to get too real—and Veronica realizes there’s nothing she won’t do for another chance with Kelcey—will the weight of their past crush them, or will they finally find their way to happily ever after?

A Conflict of Interest is an 80,000-word second-chance Christmas romance with a mistaken identity, mountains of mutual pining, and a coming-out storyline both coming out as bisexual and coming out as a decent person somewhere deep down. Content warnings for open-door sex scenes, knocking down Christmas trees, Mom having no sense of boundaries, two romantic leads who are both equally clueless in different ways, and a dashing, daring nutcracker heist(?).

Genres: Christmas

275 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 23, 2024

About the author

Lily Seabrooke is a lesbian, trans woman, and author of sapphic romance that stars food, because odds are, at any given time, she's hungry.

Her interests include eating food, thinking about food, writing novels about food, and drinking coffee.

Reviews

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Funny and Sweet!

This was a well paced second chance sapphic romance between the endearing Kelcey and the wild Veronica. Veronica had major character development throughout this book! While the atmosphere stayed light and humerous, there were many heavier topics covered adding depth and sincerity to not only her character but to the story as well. Kelcey continued to light up the story, even more so being a main character this time around. I’m so happy the wonderful Lily wanted to and was able to give us their story because they deserved to be heard! ;).

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

[Mace Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, I couldn't put it down.

Lily Seabrooke has a talent for taking comedic side characters from previous books and fleshing them out wonderfully in their own stories. This book is a great example of that.

The protagonists of this book feel so distinct and well realized. You understand why Kelsey wants to give Veronica a second(fourth?) chance but is scared to trust herself. You can't help but root for Veronica to get herself together while she makes so many dumb decisions.

Also, Lily's books always have the perfect level of spice and this book is no exception.

If you're looking for a great holiday read or enjoyed "A Break in Communications" and want to live in that world a little longer I highly recommend this book.

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

[Anniek · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought Kelcey and Veronica were so fun in A Break in Communication, so it was such a fun surprise to get a sequel about them in the same month! This is set a few years later and follows Kelcey and Veronica after they've fallen out. There's mistaken identity, which I'm always a sucker for, and they're both just complete fools in love (and life), which was incredibly funny to read.

[Jackie D · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely knew I would LOVE a Kelcey and Veronica story as soon as they were introduced in the first book! Grumpy/sunshine vibes and character growth to the max. So many lines had me in stitches this will definitely keep you laughing. Veronica is the queen of one liners and Kelcey has some airhead moments. Y’all Veronica’s mom is an off the charts busy body. The energy was there in the first book but Lily definitely made sure mom had more screen time this go around. The parent’s secondary story was a true highlight! These are easily some of favorite characters Lily has written into existence. Check out other books from this author they are gold!.

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

[May · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first read A Break in Communications, I immediately wanted a book following Kelcey and Veronica. I assumed that, if it happened, it would happen next year. I never expected my wish to come true just one month later. And A Conflict of Interest is every bit as good as I hoped for.

Kelcey and Veronica's history and dynamics are just so compelling. Watching Veronica accept the fact that she's absolutely in love is great, and Kelcey's struggles with with trusting her are totally understandable. These two are both so, so damn fun and Seabrooke does an excellent job at voicing each of them. I laughed out loud at multiple points, and I just couldn't get enough of them. More than anything, it was great to see Kelcey and Veronica get fleshed out, with aspects of their characters that once only served comedic purposes getting explored with the depth and humanity they deserved.

The returning supporting cast was absolutely wonderful. I loved Anna and Lucy, so getting more of them was absolutely delightful. Most of the supporting cast is giving more of what they offered in the previous book, but they were a delight there too so I really can't complain.

I was never expecting to get to read this book, much less so soon, but it's everything I could've dreamed of. An absolutely delightful holiday romance, two perfectly unhinged leads, and some of the best yearning I've read all year. Definitely check this one out.

I received an advance copy in exchange for a review, but all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Rylie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful, enjoyable sapphic romance novel. I really enjoyed it a lot. You could probably read it standalone but you'll enjoy it much more if you read "A Break in Communications" first. The book is alternating POV, first person. It's not strictly every other chapter for the two main characters, but I felt like the switches of perspective flowed well in the story. I could even tell the difference in perspective by differences in writing style: Kelcey tends to think in very long sentences. As required by tradition, there is a happy ending and a satisfying epilogue. And of course there is a reasonable amount of spice, which is really well written. I'm not sure if this counts as a “toaster oven” romance, since Veronica has definitely been with women (and been with the other main, Kelcey) before, but there is a coming-out to oneself and others after some intense and amusing denial. I really recommend this and the previous book for those interested in the genre.

I won't recap the plot: the blurb is good and representative. Instead here are my overall impressions. These characters go through a lot of personal development in the book, but it all feels natural and not like we're going to therapy with them. I really grew to feel like I knew them well. I think part of why I liked this one better than "A Break in Communications” is because even the “heel” main character (Veronica) has her heart in the right place from the start. She may be in serious denial and making bad decisions, but she's making them for the right reasons and not aggressively. In the other book, her sister Anna is kind of a jerk for an extended period trying to ignore her feelings by being aggressively competitive with Lucy, definitely taking a more “enemies to lovers” approach which isn't as much what I'm into. (Though I'm glad I stuck with it! And she's not a jerk in this book.)

In both books, the level of unhinged family meddling is just off the charts. It does get a little hectic at times but that's where Kelcey really shines with her interpersonal skills. She gets to show off being cool and calm and clear headed, whereas at other times in the book she can seem overly literal and somewhat oblivious to social cues. (Though this made her more relatable for me once I really thought about it.)

Highly recommended!.

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

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

After finishing Lily Seabrooke’s prior book, A Break in Communications, I saw potential for a series, especially with some sparkling supporting characters. Little did I know that the follow-up would come so soon, with A Conflict of Interest coming out less than a month later. And it was as charming as I anticipated, following Kelcey and Veronica, who stole the show in the first book.
Second Chance can be hit-or-miss for me, but Seabrooke pulls off the tension and angst in a way that totally worked. Kelcey and Veronica’s shared history is made clear early on, and the tension of whether they’d come back together was palpable. Veronica is especially interesting to follow, as she’s the one who really needs to let her guard down and get her act together. Kelcey, meanwhile, is beautifully vulnerable as she contemplates giving Veronica another chance, in spite of a betrayal of trust. As the two reconnected, I rooted for them to figure themselves out and get to their happy ending.
And with parent and family drama playing a role in the previous book, it was also great to see more of that, what with Veronica’s (and Anna’s) mom being such a piece of work. It was also great to see Anna and Lucy playing supporting roles in this book, just as Kelcey and Veronica were in theirs.
This was an enjoyable read, both as a second-in-a-series and in its own right. I’d recommend this if you’re looking for a sapphic second chance holiday romance.

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

[Jules · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a sweet follow up to A Break In Communication. In the first book the relationship between Kelcey and Veronica is a little side story - but they get their full turn in the spotlight in this fun sequel.

Veronica Preston has a hard time admitting to herself, as much as to anyone else, how much she feels for Kelcey Huntington. Just because she likes to have sex with a woman, it doesn’t mean she’s a lesbian. Besides, she likes guys too. She thinks. Maybe?

Kelcey has to protect herself from Veronica. No matter how beautiful Kelcey thinks she is. How smart. How great in bed. How perfect she is. After all, Veronica has already broken her heart multiple times. It would just be stupid to let it happen again. And Kelcey wants to prove to herself and to everyone else that she isn’t just a pretty face or a nepo hire.

When they are forced to work together, is it a chance for them to put the past behind them and find a new common ground or is it a disaster waiting to happen?

Veronica has a vicious sense of humor that she uses equally as a shield and a weapon, but Kelcey just seems to have a way of slipping past her defenses. Anna and Lucy are back as Kelcey’s favorite couple, but it’s really Anna and Veronica’s mom Maria, that steals any scene she is in.

A Conflict of Interest is a sweet, second chance romance with a sizable dollop of Christmas. A perfect addition to anyone’s holiday reading list.

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

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lily Seabrooke has a gift for writing off-the-wall characters, and it was out in force in this book! Having not read the first one, it was a little tricky to get oriented at the start, so perhaps it’s best to read these in order, lol. However, any reservations I had early on were overwhelmed by the middle section that was just beyond amazing.

As Veronica really commits to moving forward properly, and Kelcey accepts the possibility (though by no means the certainty) of a future together, the story really shines. There were incredibly moving sections as Veronica grapples with expressing herself and her feelings, followed by laugh-out-loud moments to break the tension. And despite their past and Kelsey’s fears, there’s never any unnecessary drama in their relationship; the situation is tense enough on its own.

All in all it was a wonderful balance of hope, heartbreak, happiness, and humor. And feelings, which sadly I don’t have an H-word for. Heelings and Hemotions, I guess. Anyway, the story very much like Veronica herself: a little crazy on the outside, incredibly warm and lovely on the inside.

[zb · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Great Sequel - Second Chance Well Executed

“A Conflict of Interest” by Lily Seabrooke (sequel to “A Break in Communications”) centres on the best 2 side characters of the first book: Kelcey and Veronica. This is a great book, a very well executed second chance romance novel, and —in my view— far better than “A Break in Communications”. The romance, pacing, characters, and developments are much more believable (and Veronica & Anna’s mum is, thankfully, less irritating. A much more polished Christmas RomCom — if you liked “Fake It” (or any other of Lily Seabrooke’s books), but weren’t super keen on the one prior to this, I think you’ll enjoy this one a lot more — I certainly did! Plus, you get to see more scenes with the hilariously cantankerous Charlotte.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Nia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unfortunately, I haven't read "A Break in Communications" yet, but I still understood the dynamics of them well.
However, I have to say that I feel compelled to read the first book.
I'm now curious about Lucy and Anna's story.
All I can say about Veronica's and Kelcey's story is that I've rarely read an approach where a grumpy character is aware of what she has to do and does everything she can to make it possible, or rather to make up for it.
For me, that was the strength of the book.
I only know Veronica as a character as it is described in this second book and that's why I have to read the first one!
It's funny, sweet, heartbreaking and hopeful.
Everything what i need for a good christmas romance!

[Looby Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in the series and follows on a couple of years after A Break in Communications.
Kelcey and Veronica were side characters in that book but get their chance to shine/scowl in this one.
Both characters were a lot more fleshed out and it was fun to see what lay beneath the veneer of Veronica, my very own pantomime villain.
But she’s the billion no more. Here she progresses to an ugly sister then finally the princess charming as her and Kelcey work hard to find out who they really are (V) and who they really want (both).
As always Lily’s humour makes the book, for me at least. The perfect read for a Xmas feel good day.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished this book and I'm so pleased Lily wrote about Veronica and Kelcy. Loved them both as side characters in Break in Communications. They definitely required their own book. The story is funny, sweet and doesn't go as you'd think in places, but always ends as happy one. The original cast of characters pop up, mostly when Veronica doesn't want them to, but it always makes you laugh!
I just love all of Lily's books, so if you want a warm, Christmassy, funny book to cuddle up with on a cold winters day, please give this one a go! You won't be disappointed.

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

[Speedker]

This book is a beautifully written and emotionally engaging story that held my attention from the very first page. I was especially drawn to the author's writing style—clear, vivid, and immersive. Every scene felt purposeful, with not a single dull moment throughout the entire narrative. The characters are incredibly well-developed, each with their own unique depth and voice, making their personal journeys feel both relatable and powerful. I genuinely couldn’t put it down; the pacing was perfect, keeping the tension and curiosity alive until the very end. Overall, it's a heartfelt and unforgettable read that I would gladly recommend to anyone who enjoys meaningful, character-driven fiction.

[Amber Justice · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved the first book in this series, A Break in Communications, and this sequel featuring Veronica and Kelcey, did not disappoint. Both characters had to grow and mature from where they were at the end of book 1 and that journey was sweet, romantic, hilarious, spicy, and altogether lovely. I would definitely recommend checking out this book, particularly if you enjoy a good sunshine/grumpy romance.

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

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited to read this book as soon as I saw the blurb mentioning Kelcey, one of my favorite side characters from Seabrooke’s previous release, A Break in Communication. There were moments when I really wished I could talk to one or the other of the main characters and tell them to get it together, along with plenty of Seabrooke's classic perfectly timed comedic barbs. I’d definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a comically emotional read.

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

[Emily Cassidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a sequel I'd been anxiously awaiting, my hopes for this book were sky high. And right off the bat, it shattered them by going not at all in the direction I had anticipated. What I got was so much better.

I shouldn't be surprised, Lily always writes the best stuff, but I found myself falling for these characters even more than usual, and even though I knew deep down that they'd get their HEA, I was on the edge of my seat (figuratively) the whole time, hoping everything wasn't about to fall apart.

Another absolute masterpiece, my only regret is that I was so late to reading it.

[Kelren Wu · Rating 5 out of 5]

How whipped can one Preston sister be? In the first book we see that Veronica screwed her relationship with Kelsey and now it's her chance to make it right. I really liked how their story developed. Veronica had a great character growth. The story has depth but is also light hearted second chance romance that will pass by too quickly and make you want more.

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

[Sha · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute fluffy girl falls for a commitment-phobic charmer. The Xmass vibe is strong in this book and a second chance at love has never been so romantic.
The voices of both MCs are too similar and it bothered me throughout the read, feeling like they sound too much alike.
Having said that, this book is still highly entertaining. It has some banter, slapstick, and some steamy sex scenes. This is an enjoyable book and a great holiday read.

Rating: 4 stars.

[David Soutar · Rating 5 out of 5]

The characters are so well written that I believe that they really exist somewhere or somewhen! The plot was good and kept you moving along and interested to see what would happen next. I enjoyed this book and now I am going to go and read the first book in the series and any others I can find online. A writer to follow 'til the end.....

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

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great quick read and continuing the story of Kelcey and Veronica was a great choice to me.

Showing we all can change and deserve a second chance to show we can change.

Acknowledging and being self aware of where we need focus to get the love of our life.

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

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a good surprise to get Kelcey and Veronica’s story so soon after A break in communications. I like many other reviewers wanted their story but certainly didn’t expect it this quickly. Thank you LS for writing them. Totally recommend but I think you should read ABIC first for it to make sense.

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

[Jake · Rating 3 out of 5]

good?

The story overall was decent.

The boundary crossing of this family is so beyond ok it’s toxic. The words ‘no’, ‘leave me alone’ and ‘don’t’ are ignored regularly. Honestly that made me so uncomfortable that the book looses two stars for it.

[Zena Bates-Zellers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kelcey and Veronica's love story was such a fun read. I loved seeing the way Veronica grew and finally changed for Kelcey. And seeing more of Anna and Lucy being cute together was a great little bonus.

[Margarida Pereira]

DNF...

[B, · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lily Seabrooke has given two of her characters from A Break in Communications their own story in A Conflict of Interest.

Career gadabout Veronica Preston is the younger sister of Anna Preston, who’s ambitious, successful, newly in love and in an HEA relationship.

Anna is also the boss of unsteady communications manager Kelcie Huntington.
By gatecrashing Anna’s work events, coordinated by Kelcie, Veronica meets and makes it her mission to seduce the younger woman.

But Veronica has no intention to pursue anything further than having occasional sex, so Kelcie rebuffs her.

Veronica runs into a conflict of interest when she realizes she misses Kelcie and decides to work with her surreptitiously on a work project to try to win her over.

Watching the undisciplined, misbehaving Veronica try to be good and honorable — and actually convince Kelcie she can be trusted — makes for a good story. Seabrooke has written another entertaining book that I enjoyed.