Fret Me Not

Brunch Bros #3

by Sarah Estep

There's a fine line between love and fake....

Rockstar Sam Shoop has retreated to his secluded cabin In Crane Cove for some privacy. Unfortunately for him, the residents haven’t gotten the memo and want to set him up with every available person they know. A fake girlfriend sounds like the answer to all of his problems, until he drops the name of a very real person - Lacey Finch, local dance teacher.

Lacey Finch is still considered an outsider by Crane Cove’s standards, and the negative attention that comes with being the ex of one of its most infamous residents is growing tired. So when Sam suggests a fake relationship, it just might be the answer to some of her problems. The fact he doesn’t remember her or the night they spent together in Barcelona 10 years prior? Not her problem.

A mutual agreement for a common goal - less questions about their personal lives. But when their past keeps creeping up and the chemistry is very much still there, how long will their relationship stay fake?

Genres: Romance, Fake Dating, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Small Town Romance, Fiction, Marriage Of Convenience

1 pages, Audio CD

First published August 29, 2024

About the author

Sarah is a Pacific Northwest based romance writer who would call herself "indoorsy". When she isn't traipsing around the country for work, Sarah enjoys buying more books than she can ever read, drinking an irresponsible amount of coffee, and not respecting her bedtime.

There's no such thing as too many Happily Ever Afters. Sarah's books have humor, heat, and characters you wish could be your friends.

Reviews

[guiltless pleasures · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bummer. I loved Sarah Estep’s first two books so much that her Crane Hotel keychain is one of my most prized possessions. And even though I’d been hoping the third book would be Peter’s story, I was of course expecting the best from Sam’s book.

Sadly, I just never connected with it — with the plot (fake dating is never a fave, and unfortunately Estep failed to justify it satisfactorily), with the characters (I didn’t get much chemistry between Sam and Lacey) or with the sex (kind of BDSM-lite that felt a little… halfhearted?).

There was a cute dog, but a cute dog is not enough to hold a meh relationship together. There was also “good girl,” “my wife,” all the tropes that bookstagram goes gaga over but do nothing for me and felt like fan service.

I took a couple of lengthy breaks because I really didn’t want to DNF. Eventually, I powered through to the end because a) Estep’s writing is still good and b) I liked spending time with the other characters.

Especially Peter. I cannot wait for his book. Onward!

Thanks to Sarah Estep for the advance review copy.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I tell you I have been WAITING for Sam’s book since So Flocked’s epilogue and Sarah, no surprise, delivered another banger in the Brunch Bros series!

Sam and Lacey were incredibly relatable in the way they moved through the world, presented themselves, and allowed people into their lives. While they might seem like opposites - Lacey, a bubbly ray of sunshine and Sam more reserved - their souls were so wonderfully matched as they both had guarded hearts and were tentative to let others in. Daisy so perfectly upended Sam and Lacey’s lives becoming a catalyst for them to lower the drawbridge to their hearts and bare their hopes & fears with each other, while deepening existing relationships and allowing new friendships to blossom. AND I LOVED the openness between Sam and Lacey as they discussed consent, STI testing, & being childfree by choice! Love to see it!!

Caretaking is one of my most favorite tropes and the level of caretaking Sarah weaves throughout this story is TOP NOTCH. Sam is such a caretaker, which we’ve seen sprinkled throughout the series from keeping everyone fed & safe from kitchen fires to mending sweaters, and I relished spending more time with this sometimes prickly, but tenderhearted rockstar. And my girl Lacey! She is the friend you want in your corner - she’s fierce, nurturing, loyal, and so damn sexy. I’m ready to join forces with Kiki & Sybil and scream at the dirtbags who took tried to dim her shine.

Sarah’s stories, filled an abundance of soft and sweetness, are the safe place our hearts and souls can find joy and hope when real life is all hard edges. Crane Cove has given us a community where our hearts are taken care of and where we get to spend time amongst kind souls who readily offer support and love, and I’m so grateful to Sarah for inviting us to spend time in this special world.

If you’re looking for a TRUE romcom with phenomenal banter, delectable spice, authentic and relatable characters, and an abundance of charm and heart, you MUST visit Crane Cove and read this series.

*While they can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading them in order for an even better reading experience!

[kay · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wasn't particularly looking forward to Sam, but I liked the previous books quite a lot so I was optimistic.

This is an example of how fake dating is getting overused. The reason for fake dating was so old ladies would stop asking him to meet their grandkids. That's so flimsy. Even if it wasn't, why was it necessary to lie to his friends?

The flimsy premise meant there was nothing to build on. No tension, no drama, just a cute dog. This entire book was these two pretending to date but refusing to be the grown ups they were and just saying the words they needed to say.

I'll still come back for my sweet angel Peter.

[Star.e.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! I adore Crane Cove and all of these characters 💜 full review to come! Sarah!! You freaking did that!

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a HUGE fan of the Brunch Bros series and so far we've had a Billionaire, a Pro NFL player and now a Rockstar as leads.

In this newest dual POV, grumpy/sunshine, smalltown, fake dating turn marriage of convenience romance, we get to know reclusive rockstar Sam better as well as Lacey, a former professional dancer turned dance teacher who is trying to get herself out of debt and agrees to be Sam's fake girlfriend in order to help save an adorable rescue dog.

Filled with humor, heat, food as a love language and found family, this was highly enjoyable and I couldn't help rooting for master chef Sam and huge-hearted Lacey to find their happily ever after with their dog-baby Daisy. Now for Peter's movie star romance to round out the series! I can't wait to see who he ends up with!!

🔥Steam level: open door, some very explicit scenes

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's always good to be back in Crane Cove. I love the world that Sarah continues to build, and I liked Sam and Lacey a lot. Any man who uses food as a love language has my stamp of approval, and Sam fits the bill for sure. He's a caretaker, and every time he did something sweet and thoughtful for Lacey, I swooned a bit. Lacey brings a chaotic energy that I can always get behind in my heroines, and they clashed nicely together. She is bubbly and lovely but deeply lonely, and I liked seeing them explore the difference and overlaps between their loneliness and isolation. And Daisy was the perfect magnet to keep them coming back to each other. What a good doggo.

Fake dating is a bit played out for me as a trope and you definitely have to coast on vibes with this one, because it doesn't really make sense. It's romance reasons. I would have preferred there not have been a switch to marriage of convenience in the last quarter because they are different tropes that need different emotional journeys to pull off and I think it muddled the end up unnecessarily. There was too much happening in not enough pages, and I felt a little let down.

I am looking forward to finishing out the Brunch Bros with Peter's story, and moving onto the other characters in town. Maybe then I will actually understand the difference between the McMahon brothers in a way that matters.

[Reading in Brussels · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
I love Crane Cove, I love the Brunch Bros and I love how Sarah Estep has built this world.
That being said, Fret Me Not did not feel like a very solid read to me, which is why it's a 3.5 stars. The reason for fake-dating was flimsy, and did not feel like it was actually needed. I also didn't understand some of Sam's choices, like the fact that he was going to keep the relationship from his best friends, or that they did not know where his house was ?? I was surprised at this one, especially with him being so close to his friends, I would think that they wouldn't invade his privacy, but to go to the lengths of them not knowing where he lived.. ANYWAY.
I also couldn't feel the emotional intensity in Sam and Lacey's relationship. It was very low-angst, which, not bad.
Also, the third-act break-up? I was disappointed in Lacey by how that came about: she blurts out that she's going on tour and talks about divorce in the same breath, and expects Sam to not get blindsided? How was he the one to have to make a grand gesture? Idk, I didn't feel that one.
I did love the strong ties of friendship, and how this story is a beautiful continuity on what the author started with book 1 (which is still my favorite).

[susana ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

♡ Bisexual M/F (he’s bi)
♡ Small town
♡ Fake dating
♡ (Forgotten) One night stand
♡ A sad puppy that wants mommy and daddy together all the time
♡ Kinky

Idk at this point I would let Sarah punch me in the face and I’d say thanks and probably beg her to do it again. Her books are, to quote modern Shakespeare Edward Cullen, my own personal brand of heroin.

I was so mistaken about Lacey. I had no idea why I thought she’d be shy and quiet… she’s a total spitfire and I LOVED her so much. She was brutal in the best possible way. Sam had no time to breathe around her and I think that’s so beautiful. The cover says “there’s a thin line between love and fake” and it couldn’t be more right because they say they’re fake dating but is the fake in the room with us, Sam and Lacey????? They were extremely blind to their own feelings, it was so endearing. Even Daisy didn’t understand why mom and dad were separated for long stretches of time. She was the best parent-trapper puppy ever.

I don’t exaggerate when I say that if I could instantly move to a fictional place, I’d leave for Crane Cove with my current clothes are no belongings, just take me there. The gloomy atmosphere, the people… I could be so happy there. The more I read about small towns, the more I think about how peaceful and beautiful life could be in one like the fictional ones.

I am very ready for book 4 but kind of terrified because I strongly believe it’s going to DESTROY ME.

Rating: 5/5
Steam level: Open door, +5 scenes, high level of detaul

ARC provided by Sarah Estep. Opinions are my own!

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was going back and forth on my star rating but ultimately just said f**k it, it had a dog and I loved the characters 😅
This is the second book I've read recently where the guy knits and I love it.

Sam is a bi king and we love it! There were so many moments that I found really relatable for me with Sam's character. I really like how confident Lacey is but still has her flaws and insecurities of course. Makes her more real. And we alllll love Daisy because who wouldn't?? What I did not expect and absolutely loved so much was Annie and Lacey becoming besties - I wish we got a few more moments of them hanging out!

Always here for the Brunch Bros and love these books so much!

TW: sexual content, cursing, death of parent (off page), vomit, alcohol, grief, bullying, toxic relationship (in past, sees the person), gaslighting

[Julie WB · Rating 3 out of 5]

3+⭐️ It was cute, but kind of boring in some parts. The fake dating premise was dumb and the lack of communication got old. The steamy scenes were very spicy and they communicated well there. Overall it was enjoyable, but I didn’t love it. Will definitely continue the series though.

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://smexybooks.com/2024/09/review...

[Jessica White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Number 1, I seriously don’t understand why more people aren’t talking about Sarah Estep, because Number 2, she can write an amazing love story! This was my first foray into the Crane Cove universe, and even though it’s the third book in this series, it can easily be read as a standalone (I was never lost or confused over various couples). The premise is that Sam and Lacey begin fake-dating after Sam carelessly mentions the first name that pops into his head, when cornered by the small-town nosy grannies. Lacey only agrees to go along with it because it will help her reputation after dating loser Mitch, and Sam is just tired of all the match-making he’s been subjected to since moving to Crane Cove. And as with any fake-dating trope, the reader is always waiting for that moment the characters realize that maybe feelings are involved and that perhaps they don’t want the relationship to stay fake. But what makes Fret Me Not such an unputdownable book is how “real” Lacey and Sam feel. Small town romances have the tendency to go cutesy and stereotypical, but I loved reading about two people who have actual problems (Lacey is trying to pay off debt, Sam has anxiety, both have their own insecurities with exes) and are yet so down to earth and lovable.

This is a slowburn partially because of the fake dating, but also because neither character is 100% comfortable expressing their growing feelings about each other to each other. And that makes their chemistry even hotter. There are 🌊 without touching, super flirty sexting, one of the hottest edging scenes 🥵, as well as movie theater, counter top, you name it creative locations for foreplay and sexy encounters. A grilled cheese even bites the dust in the name of an orgasm. Seriously. The sex is A+++. And amidst all of that it’s funny. These characters think like real people, and do and say silly things like real people, heck, even Daisy the support dog farts and hogs the covers. So we now can check off realness ☑️, spicy spice ☑️, and to top it off, this book made me cry not once, but twice, so check off the all-in-your-feelings box ☑️ while we’re at it. Oh and did I mention sick bed caretaking? He cooks for her? Y’all I could keep talking about all the things I love, but just do yourself a favor and go read this one soon. I highlighted so many bits, but they might be a bit too NSFW to mention here. 😉

As with any book, please be aware of content cautions (all mentioned at the start of the book): Parental Death (past), Depression and anxiety, Conversation about suicidal ideation (assumed intent), Undiagnosed ADHD, Financial instability, and Explicit sexual content

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Steam: 🪭🪭🪭🪭
The nickname that sticks: 🌞

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

A big thank you to Sarah Estep for the ARC of her latest book! While this is the third installment in the series, it was my first introduction to Crane Cove—and what a delightful surprise it turned out to be. Though it stands firmly on its own as a captivating read, I found myself eager to dive into the earlier stories to learn more about the couples from the previous books.

In Fret Me Not, we meet Lacey Finch, a struggling dance instructor looking to rebuild her life, and Sam Shoop, a world-famous musician searching for privacy. Both have retreated to Crane Cove for different reasons—Lacey to regain her financial footing and Sam to escape the glare of his celebrity. When Sam, in an attempt to fend off the well-meaning matchmaking efforts of the town's knitting circle, invents a fake girlfriend named "Lacey," he inadvertently sets off a whirlwind of small-town gossip. Soon, the two realize that this pretend relationship could benefit them. What begins as a charade to reshape public perception soon turns into intimate nights in, shared meals, heartfelt caregiving, and co-parenting an adorable abandoned dog named Daisy—all of which start feeling anything but fake. The chemistry between Lacey and Sam grows undeniable, electrifying their every interaction.

If you're a fan of found families, charming small towns, heartfelt moments, and spicy romance, you'll fall head over heels for this book! Sarah Estep has created a disarming world brimming with warmth and character. Lacey and Sam are beautifully complex, each bringing out qualities in the other that they didn't even realize they needed—Sam's protective side and Lacey's willingness to embrace vulnerability. Every character is multifaceted, adding depth to the story in surprising ways. The friendship dynamics, especially among the men, are a refreshing departure from the usual fare, showcasing humor, affection, and camaraderie without a hint of toxic masculinity.

Food plays a key role in the narrative, serving as Sam's love language, while Daisy, the lovable dog with a soft spot for Murder, She Wrote, steals the show. Fret Me Not is the perfect blend of humor, heart, and heat, making it a fantastic read for romance lovers.

If you need me, I’ll be reading the first two books in the series…

[Jessi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5/5

Thank you Sarah for an ARC of this book!

Remember Sam Shoop? One of our two grumpy Brunch Bros? Well, you can imagine my surprise when I found a flirty man in his place! EXCUUUUSE ME, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ALL THIS TIME BC HOLY SHIT I LOVED PLAYFUL SAM. And OMIGOD THE MAN WAS A MARSHMALLOW. Watching him banter with Lacey made me absolutely giddy. It was so fun and cute and *giggles*. 🤭 As if he wasn't already perfect, he had to go and adopt our beautiful girl Daisy. Like hello? Dog dad? SAY LESS. Between Lacey and Daisy, Sam def had his hands full. But not in the they're-difficult way, in the he-loves-with-his-whole-heart-so-he-was-constantly-taking-care-of-*his*-girls-and-making-sure-they-were-never in-want-of-anything way. And if they *did* need something? Well, he’d get right on it!!!

My heart ached for Lacey. She was down on her luck and trying to get back on her feet, but *some* people were intent on making that as hard as possible (Mitch, will you GO. THE FUCK. AWAY?!). I was rooting for her every second of the way bc not only was she doing her damnedest to improve her situation, she was doing it while feeling so alone. When she was surrounded by friends, she stopped short of truly living in the moment bc *they were Sam’s friends.* And yet, the reality was they would just as readily embrace her. 😭 So when she found and accepted her place with Sam and Daisy, my heart squeezed in joy bc she could finally exist in peace.

Despite the fake part of their dating, no one could convince me it wasn’t the real deal. Almost immediately, they fell into domesticity and it Just. Felt. Right. They wanted rules? Here’s one: Forget the rules. 😉

CN: open-door romance, past parental death, depression & anxiety, convo about suicidal ideation (assumed intent), undiagnosed ADHD, financial instability

[ChristinaReadsOnTheRoad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for sending me a review copy - all thoughts are my own.

We’re back in Crane Cove for the third Brunch Bros book, Fret Me Not. Despite being a rock star, Sam Shoop likes his life to be quiet and private – so much so, even his friends don’t know where his woodsy compound is in the small coastal town. Lacey has been all over the world as a dancer, but when life threw her too many punches, she settled in Crane Cove, teaching dance classes to cover (most of) her bills. Lacey and Sam’s paths have crossed before – including one night several years ago that could only be described as “song worthy” – but casual run-ins around the small town have become frequent and not always welcoming. That is, until Sam tries to get the knitting ladies off his back and he says he’s in a relationship – with Lacey. They devise a fake dating scheme for show so Lacey’s ex can also take the hint, but they end up developing a very real relationship in the quiet space of Sam’s home with their sweet rescue dog, Daisy.

Sarah manages to write a romance where you really believe in Sam and Lacey as a couple. Honestly, there were some small moments in the story that legitimized their romance developing from arrangement to friendship to love – moments that are more than just cheesy lines made for movies but born from an everyday love. There are still plenty of funny and spicy scenes, but I was most moved by how Sam and Lacey shared vulnerabilities with each other and their friend group. Reading this story just makes me want to go back and reread Keyed Up and So Flocked and spend more time with these characters that I’ve come to love.

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have a little bit in a conundrum with what to do with this one.

I really liked Sam and Lacey individually and even together. But I think what I liked about their relationship—the warmth and easiness of it—is what led to my frustration with them because there really was no need for any third act conflict given how well they fit. But then they just refused to actually talk to each other about how this had never real been a fake relationship and it boiled over in the dumbest way. It made the conflict feel unearned and since it happened so late I found myself wanting more after that point.

Daisy was great. I love that Sam's such a momfriend, cooking and knitting for his friends. And Lacey finding pride both in their little town and with a larger career aspiration was great.

Definitely worth reading, just not quite as pulled together as the previous books in the series. Cannot wait for Peter's book though. 3.5 stars.

[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t have much expectations for Sam’s story (especially given that I’ve been dying for Peter’s since book 1), but I really enjoyed it!

The banter and joking between the main characters was great. Definitely a spicier book than the other two, but it also felt more authentic with it - they would talk, joke, check in, etc during during spice scenes, which felt much more real than some books.

I wouldn’t have minded more of a plot, but that didn’t really feel like the purpose of this story? It was more just entertaining and enjoyable. That being said, I would’ve appreciated a Sam in therapy moment because he does have some struggles.

[K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Content warnings: grief, toxic relationship (in the past)

3.75 stars

I honestly can't pinpoint what it was about this book that didn't entirely work for me, but there was SOMETHING. Maybe it's the fact that Sam's bisexuality was mentioned basically once and then never again, and it felt more than a little tokenistic?

I did like the characters and the relationship between the two of them was charming. But still, I was left with the feeling that it wasn't doing entirely what I wanted it to do. Sigh.

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

I waited way too long review this because I had a good time with this, but now remember absolutely nothing that would allow me to leave helpful commentary. This series has been a very good time for me though and I'm very grateful to have discovered them via book pals.

[Ashley- Ashleyreads13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sarah can do no wrong....RTC.

[Mia · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5⭐️s

A little sweet
A bit naughty
A lot boring

I really really really don’t like the lack of communication between two grown ass adults. Such a time waste.

[Fictionalmeg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh boy, I have been eagerly awaiting a return to Cranes Cove since I read the first two books and I’m starting to think Sarah has saved the best brunch bros for last. Sam’s story was exactly what I wanted for a rockstar romance.

Both Sam and Lacey have such similar (and yet somewhat opposite) issues and hang ups. Both have felt used by friends and partners in their lives and have lost the ability to trust easily. Both have felt that they won’t find love and have been deeply lonely. And both have such passion for their art. I loved that they reconnected in such a random way, and how the love of a dog really helped fuse them together until they figured themselves out. The journey these two took was well written and realistic and Daisy the murder mystery watching dog was the cherry on top.

The humour in this book (and the whole series) is spot on-from simple banter to laugh out loud situations. The spice was also perfect for the characters and really matched their energy.

I loved Sam and Lacey and read this one in a day because I could barely put it down.

Thank you to Sarah for the eARC, I can’t wait to add this one to my shelves

[Laura VanZant · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so sweet, and SO funny. It was everything I expected of these characters and of Sarah Estep. Plus, the introduction of my new favourite character in the whole series: Daisy!

The communication in this book between the characters was top notch, and Estep portrayed the relationship in such a healthy way. The way Sam and Lacey care for each other is so tender and sweet, and they are very clearly soulmates.

I absolutely loved this addition to the Brunch Bros series, and highly recommend it (and the books that came before it!)

*Thank you to the author for the ARC, all opinions are my own!

[Nicole (Happily_After_HEAs) · Rating 5 out of 5]

SARAH ESTEP IS THE BEST CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE AUTHOR YOU'RE NOT READING.

This is a mini-gush of Sarah Estep's Fret Me Not.

You guys. I love Sarah. I loved her first book, Keyed Up, so much. Graham and Eloise are the snarky, rivals to lovers that live rent free in my head. I love a good pretends to be mean, sarcastic person who is also a bit mushy and insecure on the inside. What can I say other than, I can relate. 

And then, in the second Brunch Bros book, Flocked Up, Sarah did it again! This time with two incredibly kind-hearted people that had their own internal "what do I do with my life now" struggles that again, felt very real.

And our boy Sam is present in both of these books. And Sam is the Bitter Betty we all know and love (and possibly are at times/always) and I thought, how are you going to make me like this guy? And sorry Sarah. You didn't make me like him. Nope. FAIL. You made me LOVE HIM. He's one of my favorite MMCs ever. He's quiet and introverted and yeah, somewhat of a dick, but like he doesn't *always* mean to be. And he's such a dummy at times you can't help but feel for him. 

And then there's Lacey who we saw little glimpses of in the series and she's got her own issues going on. She's funny and sarcastic, yet perseveres through all that life has dished out, usually with a smile and a dash of sarcasm. And she knows Sam. Like she "knows" Sam (wink wink nudge nudge). She's been through a lot with some crappy exes and is trying to guard her heart. 

This book was just fun to read. I didn't want to put it down. And there's a moment we're all waiting for to happen--and no, it's not the sex part, though those parts were...three alarm chili hot--and when it does it's funny and natural and just UGH, I cannot say enough. 

Sarah writes about adults with adult problems, concerns, and issues who handle them in a way most adults would. Her writing and books feel believable. I mean, sure, three of the four Bros are like, super famous which is nice, and all of them are wealthy, but they still feel like real, relatable people. And the women they love are definitely "normal" people with the same issues all of us face--family, finances, brokenness, insecurities, what am I doing with my life.

Sarah likes to say her books are cozy. And in a way they are. But these people are not perfect. Their lives, even with fortune and fame, are not perfect. They are a bundle of mess just like the rest of us. And Sarah knows how to put her couples together to make them even stronger, both together and individually.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Longer review to come but my fave Brunch Bro yet.
-
Ok, back to write my full review. I loved this book. I love the Brunch Bros as a collective, but I have a soft spot for quiet, broody Sam. I loved seeing him find his happily ever after with Lacey. I felt so connected to him with his anxieties and intrusive thoughts and his struggles to speak his feelings. Words come easier for me in writing as well, and I completely understood his position on that. Also, a man who is the best dog dad ever? Be still my heart. Swoon. Daisy was such a highlight and seeing her help bring Sam and Lacey together was even sweeter. She deserved all the spoiling she got. May she enjoy her cozy mystery and Golden Girls reruns forever.

Sarah Estep’s female characters are some of my favorites I’ve read because they are all strong, complex, determined ladies with good hearts and Lacey continues that in this book. She has faced a lot of challenges her life, but she is determined to bring herself back up and doesn’t shy away from working hard to get there. I felt for her in her own feelings of isolation and I loved seeing her find a place in the group. I especially enjoyed her bonding with Annie. (The awesome extra donuts.)

The spice was spicing in this one. Sarah knows how to write some steam and these two matched each other’s freak (as the kids say these days) and then some. I felt like it was utilized so well in this book to really help build the intimacy between Sam and Lacey as they tried to avoid their feelings. Their intimacy required an extra level of vulnerability that they couldn’t hide behind their walls in those moments. It felt so important for them to share that time together when neither could use their words to express how they were feeling.

I can’t wrap this up without mentioning again how much I love the Brunch Bros as a whole. I love their nontoxic masculinity and their openness with talking about their emotions. I love that they don’t hesitate to say ‘I love you’ to each other or shy away from genuinely wanting to be around each other and spend time together. They have such a healthy, genuine friendship among them no matter where they are in the world. They’re great.

I can’t wait for all that is to come in this series. Thank you to Sarah Estep for the eARC. Can’t wait to add a physical copy to my shelf.

[Dixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review:
BEWARE OF POSSIBLE SPOILERS!


I have loved reading the brunch bros series and reading about crane cove.
I am lucky to have had the chance to ARC this book.

Rating: 3.5-4 stars (this book had some really good highlights for me of what i love and don't in a book)
Spice:2.5-3 chilli peppers ( would say this is the spiciest book out of the brunch bros at the moment)

Thoughts: ( i will try to make this as spoilerless as possible But be warned)
The anticipation for this book was strong, given how many hints we were given in the last 2 books.

-I liked how the book started out with Sam 'making up a name' of who he was seeing, to get Crane Cove off his back and how tremendously backfired on him. given how he forgot Lacey's name (and more) .
-I loved their chemistry especially before it got spicy and how the relationship grew from there.
-Breakout star : Daisy (a pup has never been so cute or engrossed in their tv shows)
-there are so many McMahons (and while they may have been mentioned, i believe we have not met all of them yet) this can get a bit confusing when reading as there are a lot of 'side characters' and in a 'interconnected standalone', i find it better to start at book 1 as more of the side characters make sense and to me their personalities are more enjoyable. Especially KIKI, even though she was in this less than the first book, i think we saw a more indepth look into her character.
-Lacey's and Sam's Exes, Lacey's was mentioned way too much (for me) even though the ex was the driving point of Lacey agreeing to the fake dating plot. Sam’s Ex was only bought on sparingly and ever needed a bigger lead up ( it was mentioned once/twice in the previous books) or not mentioned.
- loved the Cameos of the Brunch Bros (just wanted more of them)
-I liked that the marriage of convenience tropes had a bit of a twist as they were more or less in a relationship then even though they had an ‘end date’.
-there is a third act Break up, though to me, it is more like a third act conflict due to points made above.


Overall ;
I really enjoyed this book even if I had a few issues with it.
I would highly recommend reading the tropes and trigger warnings before reading.

I am now waiting in anticipation of Book Bros number 4, especially with who the FMC may be.

[Swetha · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars

This was fine but not great like I expected it to be. This is your usual cheesy, small-town romance. Nothing fancy and nothing memorable .

Things I liked:
1. The adorable dog- Daisy was the main character for me in this book. She was just so cute and adorable to read about
2. The small town setting - The small town vibes were nice and cozy. The setting made sense and felt fluffy to read.
3. The spice scenes - The author knows how to write spice well without being too corny or unrealistic. I also liked that she used different plays and kinks for her scenes.
4. The MMC's acts of service- I liked how the MMC struggled with his words but showed through his actions. He didn't make grand gestures but was simply by her side whenever she needed him.

OK, let's move onto the things I hate:
1. The third act conflict- I was pissed off at the FMC. Yes, he didn't react the way she wanted but she was so hypocritical and annoying that it irked me. She was the one who messed up but the author didn't even acknowledge it. The MMC was blamed for everything while the FMC did nothing.
2. The one sided relationship- The fake dating was claimed to be of mutual benefit but honestly the MMC was doing so much more than the FMC. The dynamic felt too one sided like the FMC was the one who controlled the relationship. I like a couple to be on equal footing so it was weird to see the MMC going above and beyond to help her while she blamed him for his communication issues.
3. The unrealistic supporting characters- I'm all for supportive men who fawn over their wives but it was so overdone that it was kind of cringey. All I knew about them were how much they loved their partners because whenever they talked, they mostly talked about their wives. The dialogue between the supporting characters wasn't realistic at all, so it took me out of the story a couple of times.
4. The non-existent chemistry - Their relationship felt like an extended hook up. I couldn't feel any emotional connection or chemistry. Sure, they seemed to match each other's freak, but they didn't have the emotional bond that'll help them stay as a couple.

Overall, if you like a fun and spicy small town romance, this might be perfect for you!

[Sierra (shesgotstories) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Me being obsessed with the Brunch Bros series would be an understatement. Sarah continues to deliver us fantastic stories with characters you’ll obsess over every single time!

I’ve been counting down until we’d get Sam’s book and now that it’s here I can confirm that my obsession with him still stands! I love how the Brunch Bros are so secure in their masculinity and so in love with their significant others. Their open-mindedness is refreshing and if all men were like them, the world would be healed. Sam may be broody and not the best communicator conversation-wise, but he pours himself into both his music and his muse!

I loved Lacey’s character and relate so much to her and how she feels like she’s not adulting right and wants to get her life together. Finding direction and your calling late in your twenties is daunting, especially when it seems like everyone around you already has everything figured out. I loved the childfree by choice representation here and love how adorable Daisy was all they needed!

If you like spice, Sarah definitely brought the heat with this one as it’s the spiciest yet! I loved the healthy portrayal of boundaries and consent and the destigmatization of STD testing and loved the chemistry between Sam and Lacey.

I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait for Peter’s book! I adore Crane Cove and would move there immediately if I could as it just surrounds you with love and acceptance when reading. If you haven’t read any Brunch Bros books yet, then you’re truly messing out on this incredible series!

Thank you to Sarah for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Becky · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lacey is a broke dancer who recently started teaching dance classes at the local studio in Crane Cove. Sam, a pop megastar but also a bit of a depressed recluse (ah, artists) has a secret hideaway in Crone Cove that he goes to to get away from stardom. As with any small town though, prying eyes and nosey neighbors are always trying to set Sam up. So he slips that he has a girlfriend, conveniently named Lacey. And LO there she is. But she’s also beautiful and needs a revenge date, so they agree to fake date. But of course THAT NEVER WORKS.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

This one was just… odd. I’ve enjoyed the rest of the Brunch Bros series and will continue to the fourth book, but this one felt out of place compared to the whimsy and charm of the others. Specifically, their tension point is lazy at best (“I want to tell her how I feel but she keeps reminding me that it’s fake so I won’t tell her that I don’t want it to be fake”). The spice in this one came out of no where with some half baked power play sequences wherein they both volleyed to be in power. It was… weird. There is very little consequence or emphasis on his stardom which didn’t really make sense. They don’t have the feelings conversation til nearly the last page, which was also weird given the series of events that led up to it. This was just a malformed book with a loose plot and lots of spice. This series as a whole is a good time and an easy read/listen but this one was meh.

Edit: WAIT. I did love the dog.

🫡 Tropes deployed: fake dating, celebrity romance, different social classes, small town, power play/minor sub/dom stuff

[S · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sam Shoop's recipe for a perfect romance, ft. expert taste tester Lacey Finch:
- A dash of forgotten names
- A cup of spilled ice seafoam latte
- A well cooked chunk of a fake dating scheme
- 3/4th tablespoon of the classic caretaking soup
- A rescued dog
- A heavy sprinkling of domestic cuteness
- A lot of spice (🌶🌶🌶)

Sunshine stimulates serotonin production in the body and seems to be an apt nickname for Lacey, who quickly becomes a constant dose of happy in Sam's life. She's a smidgen chaotic, knows what she wants, and kind. And boy, do I want to run a lawnmower through those who get her down. And Sam? He's been holding out on us folks. His brooding, devil-may-care attitude is the tip of the iceberg and bursts into flames around his girls. He genuinely cares for everyone in his life, be it through his cooking or protectiveness. Sweet, flirty, and thoughtful, I can honestly claim that he'll battle it out with everything he has to become your favorite Brunch Bro.

While Kiki and Daisy are the topic of discussion on the sidelines for new fan favorite, personally, the showstealer for me was Jenna, origami item maker extraordinaire. I've said it once, and I'll say it again: NO ONE does characters like Sarah Estep. Each one is unique and adds so much heart to the story and community. It's beyond belief how real they feel.

Be sure to check out the content warnings as you go in, but they've been handled with care and ngl, the support the Crane Cove ecosystem gives them through tough times makes me wish I was written by Sarah too.