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The Fitzgeralds #1
Must Have Been Love
From million-copy bestseller Carrie Elks comes an all-new small-town romance featuring a grumpy single dad, fiery enemies-to-lovers tension, and a happily-ever-after worth fighting for.
Inheriting a rundown bar from the father who abandoned me should be my chance to start over.
Instead, it puts me directly in the path of Hudson Fitzgerald—single dad, small town royalty, and the most insufferable man I’ve ever met. He’s rich, broody, and way too good-looking for my peace of mind.
Oh, and he wants me gone.
But I didn’t come here just to tuck my tail and run away. I came to prove I’m not the hot mess everyone thinks I am. Even if that means going head-to-head with Hudson every single day.
He thinks I’m chaos in a crop top. I think he’s a control freak with a stick where the sun doesn’t shine. But beneath all that tension is something else. Something electric.
And when he kisses me? Let’s just say, for a man who claims he doesn’t do messy, he sure knows how to make a mess of me.
I was only supposed to be here long enough to fix up my bar. I never meant to fall for the man who runs this place like he owns it.
But in a small town like this, love has a way of sneaking up on you.
Inheriting a rundown bar from the father who abandoned me should be my chance to start over.
Instead, it puts me directly in the path of Hudson Fitzgerald—single dad, small town royalty, and the most insufferable man I’ve ever met. He’s rich, broody, and way too good-looking for my peace of mind.
Oh, and he wants me gone.
But I didn’t come here just to tuck my tail and run away. I came to prove I’m not the hot mess everyone thinks I am. Even if that means going head-to-head with Hudson every single day.
He thinks I’m chaos in a crop top. I think he’s a control freak with a stick where the sun doesn’t shine. But beneath all that tension is something else. Something electric.
And when he kisses me? Let’s just say, for a man who claims he doesn’t do messy, he sure knows how to make a mess of me.
I was only supposed to be here long enough to fix up my bar. I never meant to fall for the man who runs this place like he owns it.
But in a small town like this, love has a way of sneaking up on you.
349 pages, ebook
Published April 25, 2025
1395 people are currently reading
1428 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Elks
70 books2,226 followersCarrie Elks is an international bestselling author of traditionally-published and self-published novels. Her books are sweet yet sexy contemporary small town romance stories. You can find her in all these places:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
June 28, 2025
I wouldn't call this enemies to lovers but an opposites attract. The story was captivating and the peak moment was towards the end and it was so emotional.
April 26, 2025
It frustrates me so much how this author develops her stories. I like the characters and the premise and then she makes the most absurds choices that leave me so frustrated….
Like when the couple decides to have a no string fling . Sure. Whatever. The way it’s written it’s so annoying, I mean, it blows my mind how Skyler thought that it was okay to have sex with Hudson but not in a bed because a bed meant being too intimate and she could fall in love. What the hell do you mean “too intimate”???? He literally is inside of her and that’s not intimate???? Does it have to be so damn stupid the way they agree to this?
But what I hated most about this was the fact that Hudson used something that she told him - and that he knew it was a fear and a insecurity of her - against her.
It’s a huge red flag if in a crises your partner chose the one thing he knows will hurt you. And Hudson did that when he broke up with her and I can’t believe it took so little for her to forgive.
I’m angry at how idiotic it was the star of the relationship and how they ended, even if the happy ending. Because the writing sucked badly.
Like when the couple decides to have a no string fling . Sure. Whatever. The way it’s written it’s so annoying, I mean, it blows my mind how Skyler thought that it was okay to have sex with Hudson but not in a bed because a bed meant being too intimate and she could fall in love. What the hell do you mean “too intimate”???? He literally is inside of her and that’s not intimate???? Does it have to be so damn stupid the way they agree to this?
But what I hated most about this was the fact that Hudson used something that she told him - and that he knew it was a fear and a insecurity of her - against her.
It’s a huge red flag if in a crises your partner chose the one thing he knows will hurt you. And Hudson did that when he broke up with her and I can’t believe it took so little for her to forgive.
I’m angry at how idiotic it was the star of the relationship and how they ended, even if the happy ending. Because the writing sucked badly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2025
Single dad romance with no OW drama, no baby mama drama👏🏻
This was fun and sweet❤️
Skylar just found out her dad who died left her his bar in his hometown…
Hudson is a single dad billionare(of course lol). He owns the whole island and wants to buy the bar, but Skylar doesn’t want to sell! Let the fun begin!
Love the small town(island) feel and friends that are like family🥰
Hudson did have a moment where he pissed me off and hurt Skylar but I think he redeemed himself…there is some drama with his daughter and her grandparents(his ex parents)
Grumpy/ Sunshine✔️
Billionaire single dad✔️
No OW drama✔️
Surprise pregnancy✔️
This was fun and sweet❤️
Skylar just found out her dad who died left her his bar in his hometown…
Hudson is a single dad billionare(of course lol). He owns the whole island and wants to buy the bar, but Skylar doesn’t want to sell! Let the fun begin!
Love the small town(island) feel and friends that are like family🥰
Hudson did have a moment where he pissed me off and hurt Skylar but I think he redeemed himself…there is some drama with his daughter and her grandparents(his ex parents)
Grumpy/ Sunshine✔️
Billionaire single dad✔️
No OW drama✔️
Surprise pregnancy✔️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2025
only finished it because I wanted to know the Eileen Mylene beef and didn't get my answers !! rubbish !!
April 19, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
ARC REVIEW
Releases 4/25
Thank you so much to Carrie Elks and Hambright PR for this ARC for my honest review! I ate this book up. I couldn't put it down. Skyler inherits her estranged father's bar when he passes away. So she goes to his hometown to see it and fix it up. She quickly fits right in with all the people in the town. She neets Hudson, a grumpy billionaire single dad who wants to buy the bar, and they're instantly enemies 🤭. I fell so quickly for these characters. Skyler is such a free spirit. Hudson is such a grump in the beginning but quickly grew on me. I absolutely adored his little girl, Ayda. This book definitely tugged on my heartstrings at times, and it was such a great story! I definitely recommend it!
ARC REVIEW
Releases 4/25
Thank you so much to Carrie Elks and Hambright PR for this ARC for my honest review! I ate this book up. I couldn't put it down. Skyler inherits her estranged father's bar when he passes away. So she goes to his hometown to see it and fix it up. She quickly fits right in with all the people in the town. She neets Hudson, a grumpy billionaire single dad who wants to buy the bar, and they're instantly enemies 🤭. I fell so quickly for these characters. Skyler is such a free spirit. Hudson is such a grump in the beginning but quickly grew on me. I absolutely adored his little girl, Ayda. This book definitely tugged on my heartstrings at times, and it was such a great story! I definitely recommend it!
May 21, 2025
Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐.75
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶
Trope - age gap, billionaire romance, enemies to lovers, hate to love, he falls first, forced proximity, grief, grumpy × sunshine, single dad, found family, opposite attracts, strangers to lovers, secret relationship, sneaking around, small town, HEA
Bonus chapter - 1
I liked this book from chapter one. Their instant butting heads and attraction were exactly what I was looking for when I started it. The banter and teasing were top-notch—I was smiling throughout the first few chapters.
I liked how both the MCs were hard on the outside and soft on the inside. The beginning of their relationship felt a bit shaky, but the way they handled it—especially he—refined the whole thing. He wanted to go all in, but she was hesitant.
Hudson was a grumpy but sweet man—he was protective, yet also so damn loving. The way he navigated most situations to make her feel comfortable was incredibly HOT—Our guy was whipped. I lost count of how many times he called her perfect or beautiful throughout the book. He was so damn respectful and loving, and all that grumpy exterior paled in comparison to how sweet he was. It broke my heart seeing HIM literally beg her for more when all she wanted was to protect her heart. But in the end, his care and love melted my heart and Skylers' in a way I can't explain.
Skyler was such an emotionally strong FMC. I loved her free-spirited nature. I just wish she didn't doubt herself so much, but it was also very realistic and understandable, so I understand why she hit right at the spot.
Hudson and Skyler's chemistry was sizzling yet soft. Their first date was so adorable and comforting. I screamed out so loudly when he gave in to her silly requests and did the unexpected—LIKE HUDSON!! Also, his confession melted my heart in the best way possible—it was simple but beautiful.
I knew it, I knew it, I knew it!!! I saw the plot revelation from a mile away.
Side characters -
1. Ayda didn't have much of a role in the book, but even her limited parts left an impact. Her bond with Skyler was so precious. I got a bit emotional when she finally said her first words—that was a groundbreaking moment.
2. Autumn was such a lovely and affectionate friend. I loved how she stood by Skyler regardless of the situation.
3. Jesse was again so kind and protective. I loved his bond with Skyler and the girls.
4. Lee was such a caring sister, and I cherished every moment she shared with Skyler, especially the ones where she was supportive yet assertive.
5. Asher and Francie's hidden endeavour is something I look forward to.
_____________________________
The way therapy and psychiatry were portrayed in this book was so good and accurate, especially seeing that it yielded results that led to character development and positive change.
The last 20% broke my heart in the best way possible, but then also mended it right back. I love it when books can evoke emotions deeper than you can imagine, ink on paper can, because that's exactly what this book did.
I wasn't a fan of the third-act breakup, but I loved how everyone supported her over him, and that just made me feel happy. But then, I'm a big fan of GOOD GROVELLING, so.. and Hudson didn't disappoint me.
The ending was sweet, funny, and mellow—oh, to watch them be happy and grow their family.
I'm going to miss them, but I can't wait for the remaining books in the series.
Absolutely loved and devoured it.
Overall 4.75/5.
Spice - 🌶🌶🌶
Trope - age gap, billionaire romance, enemies to lovers, hate to love, he falls first, forced proximity, grief, grumpy × sunshine, single dad, found family, opposite attracts, strangers to lovers, secret relationship, sneaking around, small town, HEA
Bonus chapter - 1
I liked this book from chapter one. Their instant butting heads and attraction were exactly what I was looking for when I started it. The banter and teasing were top-notch—I was smiling throughout the first few chapters.
I liked how both the MCs were hard on the outside and soft on the inside. The beginning of their relationship felt a bit shaky, but the way they handled it—especially he—refined the whole thing. He wanted to go all in, but she was hesitant.
Hudson was a grumpy but sweet man—he was protective, yet also so damn loving. The way he navigated most situations to make her feel comfortable was incredibly HOT—Our guy was whipped. I lost count of how many times he called her perfect or beautiful throughout the book. He was so damn respectful and loving, and all that grumpy exterior paled in comparison to how sweet he was. It broke my heart seeing HIM literally beg her for more when all she wanted was to protect her heart. But in the end, his care and love melted my heart and Skylers' in a way I can't explain.
Skyler was such an emotionally strong FMC. I loved her free-spirited nature. I just wish she didn't doubt herself so much, but it was also very realistic and understandable, so I understand why she hit right at the spot.
Hudson and Skyler's chemistry was sizzling yet soft. Their first date was so adorable and comforting. I screamed out so loudly when he gave in to her silly requests and did the unexpected—LIKE HUDSON!! Also, his confession melted my heart in the best way possible—it was simple but beautiful.
I knew it, I knew it, I knew it!!! I saw the plot revelation from a mile away.
Side characters -
1. Ayda didn't have much of a role in the book, but even her limited parts left an impact. Her bond with Skyler was so precious. I got a bit emotional when she finally said her first words—that was a groundbreaking moment.
2. Autumn was such a lovely and affectionate friend. I loved how she stood by Skyler regardless of the situation.
3. Jesse was again so kind and protective. I loved his bond with Skyler and the girls.
4. Lee was such a caring sister, and I cherished every moment she shared with Skyler, especially the ones where she was supportive yet assertive.
5. Asher and Francie's hidden endeavour is something I look forward to.
_____________________________
The way therapy and psychiatry were portrayed in this book was so good and accurate, especially seeing that it yielded results that led to character development and positive change.
The last 20% broke my heart in the best way possible, but then also mended it right back. I love it when books can evoke emotions deeper than you can imagine, ink on paper can, because that's exactly what this book did.
I wasn't a fan of the third-act breakup, but I loved how everyone supported her over him, and that just made me feel happy. But then, I'm a big fan of GOOD GROVELLING, so.. and Hudson didn't disappoint me.
The ending was sweet, funny, and mellow—oh, to watch them be happy and grow their family.
I'm going to miss them, but I can't wait for the remaining books in the series.
Absolutely loved and devoured it.
Overall 4.75/5.
April 13, 2025
I always know I am going to get a solid and fantastic romance read when I pick up a Carrie Elks book, this is no exception. It put a spark back in me to get back to reading more of Carrie’s books as I’ve read a lot so far but want to read them all!
This has a lovely opposites-attract theme, with a buttoned up controlling businessman (Hudson) meeting roll-where-the-wind-takes-you woman (Skyler). The banter and snarking but underlying sexual tension is great and sprinkled with some humour. I was grinning pretty often throughout the book and giggled/snorted in a few places. It was getting me all fuzzy on the insides, completely enjoying it and drawing me in!
There’s also moments that really tug on the heart strings. Some tugged in a warm way - anything to do with family just gets to me and this one has a really good family element to it on various levels - and some just broke my heart a little in sad ways and good ways, making me cry, before putting me back together.
Hudson is such a great MMC and I just loved him as a character, uptight but for his own reasons that slowly wear down and a really caring heart. Skyler is such a love too, someone who needs to just see herself more clearly but is a delight. And omg…Ayda, Hudson’s daughter, just absolutely squeezed my heart especially some moments later on in the book 😭
Overall a great romance book with warmth, heart, and open-door scenes. It’s kind of a sexy Hallmark story in the best way. Definitely recommend if you want a just a very well done contemporary romance that you can lose yourself in and end with the happiest heart.
5/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
This has a lovely opposites-attract theme, with a buttoned up controlling businessman (Hudson) meeting roll-where-the-wind-takes-you woman (Skyler). The banter and snarking but underlying sexual tension is great and sprinkled with some humour. I was grinning pretty often throughout the book and giggled/snorted in a few places. It was getting me all fuzzy on the insides, completely enjoying it and drawing me in!
There’s also moments that really tug on the heart strings. Some tugged in a warm way - anything to do with family just gets to me and this one has a really good family element to it on various levels - and some just broke my heart a little in sad ways and good ways, making me cry, before putting me back together.
Hudson is such a great MMC and I just loved him as a character, uptight but for his own reasons that slowly wear down and a really caring heart. Skyler is such a love too, someone who needs to just see herself more clearly but is a delight. And omg…Ayda, Hudson’s daughter, just absolutely squeezed my heart especially some moments later on in the book 😭
Overall a great romance book with warmth, heart, and open-door scenes. It’s kind of a sexy Hallmark story in the best way. Definitely recommend if you want a just a very well done contemporary romance that you can lose yourself in and end with the happiest heart.
5/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
April 19, 2025
This was my first Carrie Elks romance and it was adorable. I love a good small town vibe but I’ve never read a small town vibe off the mainland and I loved it.
Usually I’m not a fan of insta love but Carrie did this well by balancing the automatic attraction with some great grumpy/sunshine vibes.
Skylar’s messy chaotic life complete with a free spirit outlook on life mixed against Hudson’s control freak attitude made for the perfect opposites attract romance. The banter between the two was great, the tension was amazing and the open door scenes were done well.
Your heart will be tugged in this book as well as it contains some found family, a darling little girl, and humor and love all around. Overall a quick, fun romance that had everything I enjoy in a book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m hoping 🤞🏻 Carrie is planning some more books in this darling small town as I’d love to see some of the side characters get stories of their own. I’m looking specifically at the siblings Carrie 😉🤷🏼♀️ …there’s plenty to choose from. Maybe Asher or Jessie to start?
If you’re looking for a fun romance that has the following, snag this book later this month!!
🏘️ Small Town Vibes
👱♂️ Single Dad who always wants to be in control
💃 Devil-may-care heroine who HATES being controlled
❤️ Enemies to Lovers
⚡️ Instant Chemistry
😡 Grumpy x Sunshine
💰 He’s Rich, She’s Poor
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Found Family
💔 Emotional Scars
Usually I’m not a fan of insta love but Carrie did this well by balancing the automatic attraction with some great grumpy/sunshine vibes.
Skylar’s messy chaotic life complete with a free spirit outlook on life mixed against Hudson’s control freak attitude made for the perfect opposites attract romance. The banter between the two was great, the tension was amazing and the open door scenes were done well.
Your heart will be tugged in this book as well as it contains some found family, a darling little girl, and humor and love all around. Overall a quick, fun romance that had everything I enjoy in a book! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m hoping 🤞🏻 Carrie is planning some more books in this darling small town as I’d love to see some of the side characters get stories of their own. I’m looking specifically at the siblings Carrie 😉🤷🏼♀️ …there’s plenty to choose from. Maybe Asher or Jessie to start?
If you’re looking for a fun romance that has the following, snag this book later this month!!
🏘️ Small Town Vibes
👱♂️ Single Dad who always wants to be in control
💃 Devil-may-care heroine who HATES being controlled
❤️ Enemies to Lovers
⚡️ Instant Chemistry
😡 Grumpy x Sunshine
💰 He’s Rich, She’s Poor
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Found Family
💔 Emotional Scars
April 30, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I absolutely LOVED this until about 75% of the way through. I thought the chemistry between Skylar and Hudson was so good, I loved the two of them together. I loved Skylar’s carefree attitude and how she really made Hudson work for her affection. I loved the small town setting and all the side characters! I also loved Hudson’s relationship with Ayda and I enjoyed seeing Ayda heal and come out of her shell.
Something happened at the 75% mark that just felt SO unnecessary, and then everything that happened from there really annoyed me and cringed me out. The conflict made me so mad!!!! I absolutely hate it when books have more than one epilogue too 😅
Thank you to Hambright PR and Carrie Elks for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
I absolutely LOVED this until about 75% of the way through. I thought the chemistry between Skylar and Hudson was so good, I loved the two of them together. I loved Skylar’s carefree attitude and how she really made Hudson work for her affection. I loved the small town setting and all the side characters! I also loved Hudson’s relationship with Ayda and I enjoyed seeing Ayda heal and come out of her shell.
Something happened at the 75% mark that just felt SO unnecessary, and then everything that happened from there really annoyed me and cringed me out. The conflict made me so mad!!!! I absolutely hate it when books have more than one epilogue too 😅
Thank you to Hambright PR and Carrie Elks for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
April 11, 2025
Thank you so much Hambright PR and the author for the gifted digital ARC for an honest review.
If you're a fan of a grumpy MMC with a golden retriever heart, you need to read this one. Hudson is a control freak full of vulnerabilities. He needs to keep his daughter safe and he wants to create the perfect environment for her and the people he loves.
Here comes trouble in the form of Skylar. A girl who can't be bought, who's a free spirit and isn't organized. She wants to keep the bar she inherited and stayed on the island.
He doesn't but he's so attracted to her. She isn't his type but she challenges him and that's exactly what he needs.
I absolutely loved Skylar. She was strong, badass and even if she looks so sure of herself, inside, she's full of anxieties. She thinks she isn't enough.
After reading this book, you'll want to move to this island and visit the shores, the shops and the bar.
Read this if you love :
✨ Grumpy x Sunshine ;
✨ Grumpy Golden Retriever MMC ;
✨ Single Dad ;
✨ Found Family ;
✨ Spicy 🔥.
If you're a fan of a grumpy MMC with a golden retriever heart, you need to read this one. Hudson is a control freak full of vulnerabilities. He needs to keep his daughter safe and he wants to create the perfect environment for her and the people he loves.
Here comes trouble in the form of Skylar. A girl who can't be bought, who's a free spirit and isn't organized. She wants to keep the bar she inherited and stayed on the island.
He doesn't but he's so attracted to her. She isn't his type but she challenges him and that's exactly what he needs.
I absolutely loved Skylar. She was strong, badass and even if she looks so sure of herself, inside, she's full of anxieties. She thinks she isn't enough.
After reading this book, you'll want to move to this island and visit the shores, the shops and the bar.
Read this if you love :
✨ Grumpy x Sunshine ;
✨ Grumpy Golden Retriever MMC ;
✨ Single Dad ;
✨ Found Family ;
✨ Spicy 🔥.
May 3, 2025
Thank you, Carrie Elks and Hambright PR, for this ARC of 𝘔𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘏𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘉𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 (The Fitzgeralds, Book 1)
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 💫 💫 💫 💫 💫
FMC: Skyler Brown
MMC: Hudson Fitzgerald
Setting: "Cape Liberty Island"
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄:
This book was so entertaining, and the beach setting makes it a perfect beach read. It's well-written and has a great plot and great character development.
I loved the tension between Skyler and Hudson, and I loved Hudson's special relationship with his daughter, Ayda.
There are different things that the characters on the island had to contend with, but ultimately, they were like one big, cute, dysfunctional family. 😍
I would LOVE to live on Cape Liberty Island. It reminds me of an island close to home that holds special memories ❤️
I recommend this book if you like enemies to lovers, 🌶 🌶 🌶 romance, "found family," and the small town beach theme.
𝘔𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘏𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘉𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 is available now on Kindle Unlimited & Amazon
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 💫 💫 💫 💫 💫
FMC: Skyler Brown
MMC: Hudson Fitzgerald
Setting: "Cape Liberty Island"
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄:
This book was so entertaining, and the beach setting makes it a perfect beach read. It's well-written and has a great plot and great character development.
I loved the tension between Skyler and Hudson, and I loved Hudson's special relationship with his daughter, Ayda.
There are different things that the characters on the island had to contend with, but ultimately, they were like one big, cute, dysfunctional family. 😍
I would LOVE to live on Cape Liberty Island. It reminds me of an island close to home that holds special memories ❤️
I recommend this book if you like enemies to lovers, 🌶 🌶 🌶 romance, "found family," and the small town beach theme.
𝘔𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘏𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘉𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 is available now on Kindle Unlimited & Amazon
April 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This book was too cute! Free spirited, Skyler inherits a bar on a small island from her father. Where she meets the grumpy billionaire who owns a majority of the island. Skyler settles right in, making new friendships along the way, and connecting with Hudson, who is smitten from the very beginning. Our characters grow phenomenally together, learning how to let their walls down, open their hearts and accept true love and happiness.
This book was too cute! Free spirited, Skyler inherits a bar on a small island from her father. Where she meets the grumpy billionaire who owns a majority of the island. Skyler settles right in, making new friendships along the way, and connecting with Hudson, who is smitten from the very beginning. Our characters grow phenomenally together, learning how to let their walls down, open their hearts and accept true love and happiness.
May 6, 2025
He literally breaks up with her and cites her biggest insecurities as his reasons why and doesn't even GROVEL.
Other than that, I really enjoyed this one!
Other than that, I really enjoyed this one!
June 9, 2025
This was a one-sitting, forgot-the-world kind of read.
Be still my heart. I have no words for these two. They shouldn’t have work but somehow are grump had no powers ovwr miss sunshine.
Hudson with his desire to control everything, was no match for quirky Sklyer. Their banter made me blush nore times than i care to admit and even with all the drama, i still can't find anything wring with him. She was the onw that kept this story going, but hima nd family helped to make this another hit for me.
I can’t wait for book two to arrive, too see these two and how their lives have transformed since they gave into HEA.
Be still my heart. I have no words for these two. They shouldn’t have work but somehow are grump had no powers ovwr miss sunshine.
Hudson with his desire to control everything, was no match for quirky Sklyer. Their banter made me blush nore times than i care to admit and even with all the drama, i still can't find anything wring with him. She was the onw that kept this story going, but hima nd family helped to make this another hit for me.
I can’t wait for book two to arrive, too see these two and how their lives have transformed since they gave into HEA.
June 22, 2025
LOVED this book. 4.5 ⭐️! The only reason this isn’t a full 5 ⭐️ for me is because the MMC’s emotional development felt a little rushed. We got such rich buildup and depth with the FMC, and I just wish Hudson’s growth had been paced a bit more evenly. Also, I wanted more time with Ayda. She was such an important piece of the story, but we didn’t get enough scenes with her and Skyler. That’s totally a personal preference, though.
Honestly, this book could’ve been 600+ pages and I would have enjoyed every page. If Hudson had been given the same level of development as Skyler, this might’ve become a top fave.
I loved Skyler. She’s a bit of a hot mess just trying to protect her heart and figure things out. There’s a lot of musical references, Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks, but the song that kept coming to mind for me was “Dive” by Ed Sheeran. It felt like the perfect soundtrack.
I loved every single character.
I loved the found family.
I loved the island setting.
I just really enjoyed this book.
Yes, there is a third-act breakup, but I was emotionally prepared. I saw it coming, and as a seasoned romance reader, I now look forward to the grovel and reconciliation. Hudson delivered that perfectly.
This book is chef’s kiss, a great mix of romance, found family, self-discovery, and characters you’ll genuinely care about. Plus, great spice and my favorite an HEA.
Honestly, this book could’ve been 600+ pages and I would have enjoyed every page. If Hudson had been given the same level of development as Skyler, this might’ve become a top fave.
I loved Skyler. She’s a bit of a hot mess just trying to protect her heart and figure things out. There’s a lot of musical references, Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks, but the song that kept coming to mind for me was “Dive” by Ed Sheeran. It felt like the perfect soundtrack.
I loved every single character.
I loved the found family.
I loved the island setting.
I just really enjoyed this book.
Yes, there is a third-act breakup, but I was emotionally prepared. I saw it coming, and as a seasoned romance reader, I now look forward to the grovel and reconciliation. Hudson delivered that perfectly.
This book is chef’s kiss, a great mix of romance, found family, self-discovery, and characters you’ll genuinely care about. Plus, great spice and my favorite an HEA.
April 25, 2025
Love me, hate you. Push me, pull you. This pair had my emotions ping-ponging all over the place. But I think that may have simply made me love Skyler and Hudson all the more. There was a good mix of dramatic, angsty moments and sweet, silly ones. I really loved the message of forgiveness in this story, of ourselves and others for things both done and not done. I also kind of adored how important the sense of family was to this book. Blood relatives, found family, even the community that comes together like one big, crooked family tree. On a kind of distracting side note, every time I’ve read the title for this book, I’ve started singing what I can remember of the Roxette lyrics to myself – usually terribly off-key and only barely accurate. It wasn’t until a few moments ago that I realized what movie it was part of the soundtrack for, and now I'm shaking my head and giggling at how much more perfect that makes the title. Now, I'm nearly expiring from the excitement of being able to read about the Salinger sister in the future.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
April 29, 2025
Must Have Been Love is everything I didn’t know I needed to break out of my book slump. It starts with classic small town charm—set on a quiet island with simmering tension and sizzling banter between a grumpy, broody single dad and a determined heroine with something to prove. Hudson and Skylar may be enemies on paper, but their chemistry is off the charts from the moment they clash.
What surprised me most was how invested I became. The beginning didn’t completely hook me, and I usually steer clear of some of the surprise tropes that ended up occuring, but the way Carrie Elks writes emotional depth, family complexities, and realistic character growth completely won me over and this ended up a solid five star read.
The spice was a perfect pace and had me grinning like an idiot. This book also had some major laughable moments for me. Besides that, one of the best characters was Hudson’s daughter—she’s non-verbal and completely adorable, and her bond with Skylar melted me. I legit smiled when she invited Skylar to her birthday party. So sweet. And just when things were going too perfectly, the story whipped around and pulled me into a full-on page-turning frenzy. I couldn’t stop reading. And before I knew it i was at the end of the book and literally whispering to myself, “That was such a great story.”
What surprised me most was how invested I became. The beginning didn’t completely hook me, and I usually steer clear of some of the surprise tropes that ended up occuring, but the way Carrie Elks writes emotional depth, family complexities, and realistic character growth completely won me over and this ended up a solid five star read.
The spice was a perfect pace and had me grinning like an idiot. This book also had some major laughable moments for me. Besides that, one of the best characters was Hudson’s daughter—she’s non-verbal and completely adorable, and her bond with Skylar melted me. I legit smiled when she invited Skylar to her birthday party. So sweet. And just when things were going too perfectly, the story whipped around and pulled me into a full-on page-turning frenzy. I couldn’t stop reading. And before I knew it i was at the end of the book and literally whispering to myself, “That was such a great story.”
April 10, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I FLEW through this story!🏃🏻♀️💨
The pacing was top notch. Carries writing grabbed me right away and kept me intrigued till the end. There were moments that my heart raced a little and times where I was smiling out loud.
l identified with our FMC which is always fun! Yes, she had a sunny disposition but she is so much more complex than this (including a love of Fleetwood Mac and Stevie🎶). Skyler's emotional damage mixed with Hudson's made for a well of feelings that we got to explore.
The island and all of the inhabitants made me fall in love with the setting. I'm hoping we get to see more from this island! I want to explore!
⛱️Forced prox
🌊Single dad
🐚Opp attract
🏝️Small town/island
☀️Grumpy × Sunshine
🏠Found family
✋🏼🛑🙈
LITTLE SPOILER SO STOP READING IF YOU DON’T WANT TO KNOW IT.
There was a little insta lust, a third act breakup and then an unplanned pregnancy. 🤰was towards the end and it didn’t make me want to shut the book or anything, but it was definitely there! I say still pick it up because I had a great time.
I FLEW through this story!🏃🏻♀️💨
The pacing was top notch. Carries writing grabbed me right away and kept me intrigued till the end. There were moments that my heart raced a little and times where I was smiling out loud.
l identified with our FMC which is always fun! Yes, she had a sunny disposition but she is so much more complex than this (including a love of Fleetwood Mac and Stevie🎶). Skyler's emotional damage mixed with Hudson's made for a well of feelings that we got to explore.
The island and all of the inhabitants made me fall in love with the setting. I'm hoping we get to see more from this island! I want to explore!
⛱️Forced prox
🌊Single dad
🐚Opp attract
🏝️Small town/island
☀️Grumpy × Sunshine
🏠Found family
✋🏼🛑🙈
LITTLE SPOILER SO STOP READING IF YOU DON’T WANT TO KNOW IT.
There was a little insta lust, a third act breakup and then an unplanned pregnancy. 🤰was towards the end and it didn’t make me want to shut the book or anything, but it was definitely there! I say still pick it up because I had a great time.
May 1, 2025
This book was a really fun read! I loved the premise of Skylar inheriting a run down island bar and clashing with grumpy ass Hudson. This story is funny and spicy and endearing and was a joy to read.
Hudson is brooding and controlling and does not know how to handle Skylar. They are total opposites but yhey had amazing chemistry!! From the start they clashed and it gives us this really great tension and banter
We get great character growth and for me, that really took this book from good to great - plus I love a good grovel. I also loved the side characters and the town of Liberty and messages in the sand (IYKYK)
✨ What To Expect:
💖 Romantic Comedy
🏘️ Small Town Vibes 🧢 Single Dad 💃 Devil-may-care heroine who HATES being controlled ❤️🔥 Enemies to Lovers ⚡️ Instant Chemistry 🌦️ Grumpy x Sunshine
😂 All The Banter
🏝️ Island Escape 💰 He's Rich, She's Poor 🧑🧑🧒🧒 Found Family 💔 Emotional Scars
Hudson is brooding and controlling and does not know how to handle Skylar. They are total opposites but yhey had amazing chemistry!! From the start they clashed and it gives us this really great tension and banter
We get great character growth and for me, that really took this book from good to great - plus I love a good grovel. I also loved the side characters and the town of Liberty and messages in the sand (IYKYK)
✨ What To Expect:
💖 Romantic Comedy
🏘️ Small Town Vibes 🧢 Single Dad 💃 Devil-may-care heroine who HATES being controlled ❤️🔥 Enemies to Lovers ⚡️ Instant Chemistry 🌦️ Grumpy x Sunshine
😂 All The Banter
🏝️ Island Escape 💰 He's Rich, She's Poor 🧑🧑🧒🧒 Found Family 💔 Emotional Scars
April 11, 2025
This was such a sweet read! Read this in between some physical books and it was exactly what i needed to cleanse my palette! This was filled all the love and banter!
Skyler comes to the island to fix up her dad’s bar after he passed away but she runs into Hudson after he comes barging in demanding to know who she is.
Hudson’s daughter Ayda and him have been through a traumatic experience which made her not talk anymore. Hudson’s sister Autumn is the best at making Skyler feel comfortable and like a friend!
Situations happen that test the relationship but once things come to light it’s all different!!
There’s so much family dynamic in this book it’s absolutely amazing! The ending was the absolute BEST!!! I teared up just a bit!!
Thank you so much hambrightPR and Carrie Elks for the opportunity to read and review!!
Skyler comes to the island to fix up her dad’s bar after he passed away but she runs into Hudson after he comes barging in demanding to know who she is.
Hudson’s daughter Ayda and him have been through a traumatic experience which made her not talk anymore. Hudson’s sister Autumn is the best at making Skyler feel comfortable and like a friend!
Situations happen that test the relationship but once things come to light it’s all different!!
There’s so much family dynamic in this book it’s absolutely amazing! The ending was the absolute BEST!!! I teared up just a bit!!
Thank you so much hambrightPR and Carrie Elks for the opportunity to read and review!!
April 19, 2025
4.5 stars!!!
An opposites-attract, grumpy mmc, single dad, found family romance and I absolutely ate it up!!!
Hudson, our lovely grump, who is a golden retriever at heart, is a control freak and has a hard time dealing with losing that control and facing his vulnerabilities. The need to keep his daughter safe and control his environment takes over and it takes him a lot of work to loosen the reins, but he has amazing character growth throughout the book.
Skyler is amazing, but is afraid to let her get close to Hudson, afraid to get her heart broken. The Bolter is definitely on the playlist about it her life. She has trouble believing she is worth it and worth someone else’s love, but she too has the character growth needed for a perfect hea.
There is a lot of character growth, banter, spice, angst, romance, lovely side characters, heartwarming moments and fantastic grovelling! Amazing read!!
Thank you Carrie Elks and Hambright for the review copy!!
An opposites-attract, grumpy mmc, single dad, found family romance and I absolutely ate it up!!!
Hudson, our lovely grump, who is a golden retriever at heart, is a control freak and has a hard time dealing with losing that control and facing his vulnerabilities. The need to keep his daughter safe and control his environment takes over and it takes him a lot of work to loosen the reins, but he has amazing character growth throughout the book.
Skyler is amazing, but is afraid to let her get close to Hudson, afraid to get her heart broken. The Bolter is definitely on the playlist about it her life. She has trouble believing she is worth it and worth someone else’s love, but she too has the character growth needed for a perfect hea.
There is a lot of character growth, banter, spice, angst, romance, lovely side characters, heartwarming moments and fantastic grovelling! Amazing read!!
Thank you Carrie Elks and Hambright for the review copy!!
April 29, 2025
It’s really a 4.5 for me!!
What happens when inherit a bar from your estranged father, in a town you don’t know? Become apart of the community and fine your one love😍 Skylar wishes for a chance to try again in life and after inheriting her father’s bar on Liberty island, she finally gets her chance. And after meeting Hudson Fitzgerald, the complete opposite from herself (suit and tie kind of man) she finds an instant chemistry with a side of grumpy affiliation. Carrie Elks did an amazing job with this book and honestly I loved getting to know her as an author and her writing style. Cannot wait for the next to come!😍😍
What happens when inherit a bar from your estranged father, in a town you don’t know? Become apart of the community and fine your one love😍 Skylar wishes for a chance to try again in life and after inheriting her father’s bar on Liberty island, she finally gets her chance. And after meeting Hudson Fitzgerald, the complete opposite from herself (suit and tie kind of man) she finds an instant chemistry with a side of grumpy affiliation. Carrie Elks did an amazing job with this book and honestly I loved getting to know her as an author and her writing style. Cannot wait for the next to come!😍😍
April 7, 2025
Blissfully beautiful
I loved this so much. Both Hudson and Skyler were fabulous characters who made magic together. I laughed, I swooned, I combusted, I cried, and I melted. The island of Liberty was picturesque and perfect, and the characters who reside there were delightful, with warm hearts and plenty of gossip, feuds and secrets. Carrie wove a beautiful, fun and heartfelt story, and has wonderfully set the scene for future stories in this exciting new series.
I was lucky to receive an early copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I loved this so much. Both Hudson and Skyler were fabulous characters who made magic together. I laughed, I swooned, I combusted, I cried, and I melted. The island of Liberty was picturesque and perfect, and the characters who reside there were delightful, with warm hearts and plenty of gossip, feuds and secrets. Carrie wove a beautiful, fun and heartfelt story, and has wonderfully set the scene for future stories in this exciting new series.
I was lucky to receive an early copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 24, 2025
4 ⭐️
I’ve completely become captivated by this series and Carrie’s writing, and so, thought I’d start from the beginning with Skylar and Hudson!
I liked getting to know how Hudson and Skylar got together, it was a lot of fun, and really enjoyed being back on Liberty island with them! I would say this was more dislike to lovers than enemies, as Hudson was generally grumpy towards Sky and her sudden arrival, but they had a great opposites attraction between them. I did enjoy their interactions and push and pull chemistry they had, and how they initially both fought their attraction, and how bad Hudson had it for Skylar, too!
My only gripe was when Hudson wrongfully blamed Skylar when his daughter went missing, I thought he was quite harsh and chose the easier route to take his frustrations out on her, when it wasn’t her fault.
Overall, I had such a great time and honestly cannot wait for more from this series! 🩵
I’ve completely become captivated by this series and Carrie’s writing, and so, thought I’d start from the beginning with Skylar and Hudson!
I liked getting to know how Hudson and Skylar got together, it was a lot of fun, and really enjoyed being back on Liberty island with them! I would say this was more dislike to lovers than enemies, as Hudson was generally grumpy towards Sky and her sudden arrival, but they had a great opposites attraction between them. I did enjoy their interactions and push and pull chemistry they had, and how they initially both fought their attraction, and how bad Hudson had it for Skylar, too!
My only gripe was when Hudson wrongfully blamed Skylar when his daughter went missing, I thought he was quite harsh and chose the easier route to take his frustrations out on her, when it wasn’t her fault.
Overall, I had such a great time and honestly cannot wait for more from this series! 🩵
April 25, 2025
This book had a small town feel.
Life on the island where everyone knows everyone.
Skyler has just inherited a bar from her deceased absentee dad.
Its here that she meets single dad Hudson, the billionaire who owns most of the island, and he wants not only her bar... but her.
Skyer is instantly attracted to Hudson and adores his cute daughter Ayda.
Skyler is a ray if sunshine but is afraid that she won't fit in.
Hudson just wants to keep his family and friends safe.
This opposites attract, grumpy sunshine romance had me hooked.
As the two of them embark on a no strings and no beds romance. They start to form a bond. Feelings grow stronger and walls come down.
Skyler learns that she deserves love and has finally found a place she can call home.
Definitely worth the read.
I was given a complimentary copy but voluntarily chose to review
Life on the island where everyone knows everyone.
Skyler has just inherited a bar from her deceased absentee dad.
Its here that she meets single dad Hudson, the billionaire who owns most of the island, and he wants not only her bar... but her.
Skyer is instantly attracted to Hudson and adores his cute daughter Ayda.
Skyler is a ray if sunshine but is afraid that she won't fit in.
Hudson just wants to keep his family and friends safe.
This opposites attract, grumpy sunshine romance had me hooked.
As the two of them embark on a no strings and no beds romance. They start to form a bond. Feelings grow stronger and walls come down.
Skyler learns that she deserves love and has finally found a place she can call home.
Definitely worth the read.
I was given a complimentary copy but voluntarily chose to review
August 12, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. You know how sometimes an author creates a world and it feels like one you’d want to visit. This island feels that way. I could picture the places she described. The characters were developed nicely. Hudson and Skyler, perfectly opposite, but perfectly perfect for each other. A good storyline. I look forward to reading more in this world.
July 25, 2025
Great romance that was an easy read and had holiday vibes. The characters were well crafted and interesting each was very distinctive. The only thing that stopped me giving it a 5 star was at times the characters explanations and motivations were repeated and it compromised the pace. Would recommend to anyone interested in a lighthearted romance.
April 8, 2025
Great story, loved the characters and how they developed over time. The side characters are great, too. I can't wait for the next book in the series!
August 15, 2025
ta bien. lectura de verano de tres días
April 25, 2025
Loved it
Hudson and Skyler are the perfect example of opposites attract. He keeps her grounded, she keeps him wild. Add in Ayda, Hudson's daughter, and it's a wonderful found family, instalust, whirlwind with romcom with a ton of heart.
Skylar has never really fit anywhere. She's got wanderlust and just kinda goes wher ethe wind blows. She's back in this small town because of a bar she inherited when her dad died (The Salty Dog-perfect freaking name).
Hudson just wants to make a safe place for his daughter and community. He wants the place he loves so much to be something everyone can be proud of. Him and Ayda's story is just heartbreaking and he's doing his best.
The found family (sometimes literally sometimes figuratively) was just the cherry on top of this book. Skylar finding her forever home in the literal last place she thought it would be and seeing the town come together and welcome her was so nice.
I really hope there's more in this series because there's so many of these characters I want to know more about. And we have to know what happened between Mylene & Eileen!!!
Thank you, Carrie and Hambright PR for the ARC.
🏘️ Small Town Vibes
👱♂️ Single Dad who always wants to be in control
💃 Devil-may-care heroine who HATES being controlled
❤️ Enemies to Lovers
⚡️ Instant Chemistry
😡 Grumpy x Sunshine
💰 He's Rich, She's Poor
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Found Family
💔 Emotional Scars
❤️ Opposites Attract
Hudson and Skyler are the perfect example of opposites attract. He keeps her grounded, she keeps him wild. Add in Ayda, Hudson's daughter, and it's a wonderful found family, instalust, whirlwind with romcom with a ton of heart.
Skylar has never really fit anywhere. She's got wanderlust and just kinda goes wher ethe wind blows. She's back in this small town because of a bar she inherited when her dad died (The Salty Dog-perfect freaking name).
Hudson just wants to make a safe place for his daughter and community. He wants the place he loves so much to be something everyone can be proud of. Him and Ayda's story is just heartbreaking and he's doing his best.
The found family (sometimes literally sometimes figuratively) was just the cherry on top of this book. Skylar finding her forever home in the literal last place she thought it would be and seeing the town come together and welcome her was so nice.
I really hope there's more in this series because there's so many of these characters I want to know more about. And we have to know what happened between Mylene & Eileen!!!
Thank you, Carrie and Hambright PR for the ARC.
🏘️ Small Town Vibes
👱♂️ Single Dad who always wants to be in control
💃 Devil-may-care heroine who HATES being controlled
❤️ Enemies to Lovers
⚡️ Instant Chemistry
😡 Grumpy x Sunshine
💰 He's Rich, She's Poor
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Found Family
💔 Emotional Scars
❤️ Opposites Attract
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