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New Orleans #4
April
Asher Hahn is one of the top wedding planners in New Orleans, and her best friend, Linden Washington, is the other. They’ve both planned extravagant weddings and watched couple after couple share their love in front of their friends and families, all without ever really falling in love themselves.
When, after a decade of friendship, Linden comes out to Asher, Asher’s job, as she sees it, is to be there for Linden as she explores the part of herself that she’s hidden for so long. The only problem is that now that Linden is more fully herself, Asher begins to question her own identity, and part of that questioning means realizing that she might be in love with her best friend.
For Linden, coming out has been a great experience so far. She has her best friend by her side and has enjoyed finally being able to be herself, but when Asher tells her that she thinks she’s bisexual, Linden starts to feel like she might not want to date just anyone. She could be ready for something real… with her best friend.
Asher knows she only wants Linden but thinks Linden can’t possibly feel the same way. Linden wants Asher but doesn’t think she can tell her because it could ruin their friendship. Good thing they have some meddling friends who help them figure things out and finally admit their feelings for one another.
When, after a decade of friendship, Linden comes out to Asher, Asher’s job, as she sees it, is to be there for Linden as she explores the part of herself that she’s hidden for so long. The only problem is that now that Linden is more fully herself, Asher begins to question her own identity, and part of that questioning means realizing that she might be in love with her best friend.
For Linden, coming out has been a great experience so far. She has her best friend by her side and has enjoyed finally being able to be herself, but when Asher tells her that she thinks she’s bisexual, Linden starts to feel like she might not want to date just anyone. She could be ready for something real… with her best friend.
Asher knows she only wants Linden but thinks Linden can’t possibly feel the same way. Linden wants Asher but doesn’t think she can tell her because it could ruin their friendship. Good thing they have some meddling friends who help them figure things out and finally admit their feelings for one another.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2025
127 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Pyland
81 books826 followersNicole Pyland is a bestselling author of lesbian romance stand-alone novels and series like Chicago Series, Holiday Series, Royalty Series, Sports Series, and more. Since 2017, she’s published over 60 novels (not including her What Happened After shorts), and more books are on their way.
Nicole grew up in Indiana, studying English & Film and then getting a MS in Behavior Analysis and moving to California, working by day as a Head of Training at a startup. She lives with her wife and their opinionated cat, who spends his evenings helping her write stories by occupying half the chair.
Newsletter: nicolepyland.com/newsletter
Nicole grew up in Indiana, studying English & Film and then getting a MS in Behavior Analysis and moving to California, working by day as a Head of Training at a startup. She lives with her wife and their opinionated cat, who spends his evenings helping her write stories by occupying half the chair.
Newsletter: nicolepyland.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
July 18, 2025
That was an adorable, incredibly slow burn, 1/2 toaster oven delight. The New Orleans series is just good summertime fun. Asher and Linden are introduced in this book, planning the weddings of the characters from January and February. Sophie and Bryce (March) show up as well. Jill is still around and plays a pivotal part in the development of Asher and Linden as a couple. I think Jill’s role and Asher’s reaction to it was my favorite part.
It’s an incredibly slow burn. There is zero spice until well past 70%. Be aware if that’s what you’re looking for because you gotta wait.
Since both MCs are from New Orleans, there was not much in the way of New Orleans history or culture, save for one recurring character who has shown up in every book so far. I think so far, this one was my favorite of the four that I’ve read. On to May.
It’s an incredibly slow burn. There is zero spice until well past 70%. Be aware if that’s what you’re looking for because you gotta wait.
Since both MCs are from New Orleans, there was not much in the way of New Orleans history or culture, save for one recurring character who has shown up in every book so far. I think so far, this one was my favorite of the four that I’ve read. On to May.
November 29, 2025
3.5⭐
I don't really like Friends-to-lovers but this was cute!
Would've liked to see more of them as a couple since it felt a little rushed towards the end.
But I believe that will be the case with most of the series, since each book is happening in the span of only one month.
I don't really like Friends-to-lovers but this was cute!
Would've liked to see more of them as a couple since it felt a little rushed towards the end.
But I believe that will be the case with most of the series, since each book is happening in the span of only one month.
March 23, 2025
Unsurprisingly another hit from Nicole Pyland! I am absolutely loving this series and all of these characters!
This is the story of Linden and Asher…best friends and colleagues of 10 years. When Asher discovers something about herself that she wants to explore Linden tries her hardest to be supportive and there for her. But it’s hard when she’s been crushing on her for 10 years.
I loved this story of exploration a lot. Not only from Asher but reading about Linden’s journey too! Seeing them each discover things about themselves and supporting one another through it all was just a joy to read. Throw in that friends to lovers trope and you’ve got yourself a great romance!
This is the story of Linden and Asher…best friends and colleagues of 10 years. When Asher discovers something about herself that she wants to explore Linden tries her hardest to be supportive and there for her. But it’s hard when she’s been crushing on her for 10 years.
I loved this story of exploration a lot. Not only from Asher but reading about Linden’s journey too! Seeing them each discover things about themselves and supporting one another through it all was just a joy to read. Throw in that friends to lovers trope and you’ve got yourself a great romance!
November 2, 2025
More than the first half of the book was very nice and entertaining but not really outstanding. Mostly 2 friends pining for each other while doing friend stuff and being colleagues. After that it got more exciting with a very hot steamy part on top. And then soon the book was suddenly finished. 4+⭐️
March 18, 2025
I'm sad this book is over now. I truly could just keep reading about them all. Anyway this book was really good. Low spice level till you get towards the end then it heats up. It's got a bit of will they, won't they happening throughout as well. But with some very pushy best friends we know they definitely will! Asher and Linden, only have eyes for eachother and you can tell that from the beginning even when one of them thinks they are straight. Great book I definitely recommend!
April 2, 2025
Oblivious idiots (now ft major simp energy)
April is the 4th book in Nicole Pyland's new New Orleans series. This one follows two best friends who are so very clearly in love with each other that the couples (and Jill) from the first 3 books have to intervene just to make Asher and Linden confess lol.
It's very cute if you can get past all the times when you want to knock some sense into Linden for being so dense as to ALL of Asher's actions since coming out as Bisexual. Or when you want to take Ash by the shoulders and shake her and ask, "wtf are you even doing right now?" Or in my case, when you were just face palming and reading being the gaps of your fingers as the cringe increased alongside the (admittedly minor) angst.
And I'm sure you'll love how their scheming friends finally and literally got them both to sit down and talk it out. Once that happens, prepare for Linden to go from (kinda) playgirl to a total simp in like 10 seconds lol. It's very cute though and Ash obviously loves the attention. I probably like them as a couple the best so far.
Their situation seems the most believable and likely to happen to real people. I mean, how many of us didn't fall for our best friend (straight or otherwise) at some point throughout our lives? What would have happened if you thought there was a chance? Would you confess and take the leap of faith or would you continue to hide your feelings?
So yeah. Great story! Friend-to-lovers is a comfort troupe for sure. 10/10 would recommend.
April is the 4th book in Nicole Pyland's new New Orleans series. This one follows two best friends who are so very clearly in love with each other that the couples (and Jill) from the first 3 books have to intervene just to make Asher and Linden confess lol.
It's very cute if you can get past all the times when you want to knock some sense into Linden for being so dense as to ALL of Asher's actions since coming out as Bisexual. Or when you want to take Ash by the shoulders and shake her and ask, "wtf are you even doing right now?" Or in my case, when you were just face palming and reading being the gaps of your fingers as the cringe increased alongside the (admittedly minor) angst.
And I'm sure you'll love how their scheming friends finally and literally got them both to sit down and talk it out. Once that happens, prepare for Linden to go from (kinda) playgirl to a total simp in like 10 seconds lol. It's very cute though and Ash obviously loves the attention. I probably like them as a couple the best so far.
Their situation seems the most believable and likely to happen to real people. I mean, how many of us didn't fall for our best friend (straight or otherwise) at some point throughout our lives? What would have happened if you thought there was a chance? Would you confess and take the leap of faith or would you continue to hide your feelings?
So yeah. Great story! Friend-to-lovers is a comfort troupe for sure. 10/10 would recommend.
April 10, 2025
April is a good month to read a great book!
Asher and Linden’s story is the 4th book in Nicole Pyland’s New Orleans series. This was another one of her books that I just couldn’t put down until it I was done reading it.
Linden has been out for only a year, even though she knew she was a lesbian since she was young. She isn’t interested in a relationship at the moment and is instead making the most of her one-night stands. Then you have Asher who realises that she is into both women and men, and even though Linden encourages her to join the same dating app she is on to give her the chance to start casually dating, she is more interested in finding a long-term relationship.
However, these two best friends are clearly in love with each other but don’t want to act on the feelings for fear of it ruining their friendship. It takes some creative meddling from their friend group to push these two into finally acknowledge what’s there between them. This book is definitely a slow burn, but once the characters are together it’s definitely on the spicy side.
The friendship these two have built over the years and the way they support each other is a strong foundation for their budding relationship. I love that throughout this series that the group of friends is steadily growing in size, and they all continue to support and be there for each other. I’m really enjoying this series and can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Asher and Linden’s story is the 4th book in Nicole Pyland’s New Orleans series. This was another one of her books that I just couldn’t put down until it I was done reading it.
Linden has been out for only a year, even though she knew she was a lesbian since she was young. She isn’t interested in a relationship at the moment and is instead making the most of her one-night stands. Then you have Asher who realises that she is into both women and men, and even though Linden encourages her to join the same dating app she is on to give her the chance to start casually dating, she is more interested in finding a long-term relationship.
However, these two best friends are clearly in love with each other but don’t want to act on the feelings for fear of it ruining their friendship. It takes some creative meddling from their friend group to push these two into finally acknowledge what’s there between them. This book is definitely a slow burn, but once the characters are together it’s definitely on the spicy side.
The friendship these two have built over the years and the way they support each other is a strong foundation for their budding relationship. I love that throughout this series that the group of friends is steadily growing in size, and they all continue to support and be there for each other. I’m really enjoying this series and can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
April 28, 2025
Another Good Read
Another enjoyable addition to the “Months of the Year”series, as I have dubbed it. April by Nicole Pyland delivers exactly what fans have come to appreciate, an easy-to-like plot, relatable characters, and a sense of grounded realism that feels effortlessly authentic.
I continue to admire Pyland’s unique ability to craft stories that reflect everyday situations without losing emotional depth or narrative charm. Both Linden and Asher are incredibly likable characters, each bringing their own blend of vulnerability and strength to the page. Their personalities are distinct yet complementary, making their evolving relationship feel natural and emotionally satisfying.
One of the highlights of this installment, as with others in the series, is the delightful group of meddling friends whose presence adds humor, heart, and a sense of found family. Watching this group expand and become more entwined with each passing month only enhances the reading experience.
Overall, April is another strong, heartfelt story from Nicole Pyland, one that continues to showcase her talent for creating love stories that feel both intimate and real.
Another enjoyable addition to the “Months of the Year”series, as I have dubbed it. April by Nicole Pyland delivers exactly what fans have come to appreciate, an easy-to-like plot, relatable characters, and a sense of grounded realism that feels effortlessly authentic.
I continue to admire Pyland’s unique ability to craft stories that reflect everyday situations without losing emotional depth or narrative charm. Both Linden and Asher are incredibly likable characters, each bringing their own blend of vulnerability and strength to the page. Their personalities are distinct yet complementary, making their evolving relationship feel natural and emotionally satisfying.
One of the highlights of this installment, as with others in the series, is the delightful group of meddling friends whose presence adds humor, heart, and a sense of found family. Watching this group expand and become more entwined with each passing month only enhances the reading experience.
Overall, April is another strong, heartfelt story from Nicole Pyland, one that continues to showcase her talent for creating love stories that feel both intimate and real.
April 10, 2025
Asher Hahn's best friend Linden Washington has just come out, and Asher is trying to be supportive. Or as supportive as a mostly straight friend can be. Seeing Linden make out with a woman one night causes Asher to wonder if she might have feelings for Linden....
Linden is a bit shocked when Asher admits she might be bisexual, but only because she's hidden a crush on the other woman for years.
Asher tentatively starts on a lesbian dating app, while Linden realizes that just for fun rolls in the hay are not her thing. Complicating things, Asher is offered a promotion. The boss, bluntly, comes across as a pushy asshat.
Okay, the friends lying to each heroine to set them up annoyed me... deceptive matchmaking is a trope I really loathe. It's dickish, IMHO.
Solid 2.5. MNot BAD but didn't click with me.
Linden is a bit shocked when Asher admits she might be bisexual, but only because she's hidden a crush on the other woman for years.
Asher tentatively starts on a lesbian dating app, while Linden realizes that just for fun rolls in the hay are not her thing. Complicating things, Asher is offered a promotion. The boss, bluntly, comes across as a pushy asshat.
Okay, the friends lying to each heroine to set them up annoyed me... deceptive matchmaking is a trope I really loathe. It's dickish, IMHO.
Solid 2.5. MNot BAD but didn't click with me.
March 24, 2025
"April" is the fourth novel in Nicole Pyland's New Orleans series and once again she has outdone herself. It’s fantastic to see the characters from the previous books appear, they are becoming like old friends to me.
This story revolves around Asher Hahn and Linden Washington, two thirty-something wedding planners who are colleagues and best friends in the same office. Linden has recently come out and is not short of offers on the app she has joined. Asher has a boyfriend but senses there is something missing from her relationship.
Endearing characters, self-discovery, and personal growth amidst the backdrop of New Orleans is a sure winner for me. Especially with the perfect pacing which reads like a dream. I can’t wait for May!
I received an arc for me honest review.
This story revolves around Asher Hahn and Linden Washington, two thirty-something wedding planners who are colleagues and best friends in the same office. Linden has recently come out and is not short of offers on the app she has joined. Asher has a boyfriend but senses there is something missing from her relationship.
Endearing characters, self-discovery, and personal growth amidst the backdrop of New Orleans is a sure winner for me. Especially with the perfect pacing which reads like a dream. I can’t wait for May!
I received an arc for me honest review.
April 2, 2025
A Really Sweet Story
What lesbian hasn’t had feelings for her best friend, at least once in her life? This book dives deep into this familiar situation with both humor and angst.
I was having all the feels as I remembered coming out and grappling with my emotions related to relationships with good, female, straight acquaintances. The story does a great job of capturing those mixed up moments of excitement, panic, joy and acceptance.
The lesbian support Krewe of the main characters was equal parts touching and funny. Add in some job/career decision, a sexy super model and the return of my favorite fortune teller and you have the perfect escape.
It’s a tough balancing act with all the different story elements and Nicole Pyland did it with ease.
What lesbian hasn’t had feelings for her best friend, at least once in her life? This book dives deep into this familiar situation with both humor and angst.
I was having all the feels as I remembered coming out and grappling with my emotions related to relationships with good, female, straight acquaintances. The story does a great job of capturing those mixed up moments of excitement, panic, joy and acceptance.
The lesbian support Krewe of the main characters was equal parts touching and funny. Add in some job/career decision, a sexy super model and the return of my favorite fortune teller and you have the perfect escape.
It’s a tough balancing act with all the different story elements and Nicole Pyland did it with ease.
April 5, 2025
Another story from the New Orleans Series that you will want to eat up. Honestly, I loved that this was a book I couldn’t put down. Two best friends that you'll want to bonk on the head with how blind they are about each other. Luckily there is a great support cast that ensures they don’t make a mistake. Linden is so endearing in the lengths she will go to for Asher, except for telling her how she feels. Every step of the way I couldn’t wait for them to realize their feelings all while sympathizing with all the hold-ups they had with their hesitations. Once again it was great to have all the characters from the previous books playing important roles.
June 14, 2025
Good book
A friendship that last for ten years is something to cherish. But a friendship that someone had to keep their feelings hidden is hard. Its true that total opposite attracts each other, yes that do have some things in common to make it work.
Asher just realized that she likes her best friend Linden after seeing her kiss someone. She doesn't know what to do about it but ask for help from Linden. Linden helps her get set up on the date app but really wants to go out with Asher but doesn't want to ruin their friendship. With some help from other friends and a physic teller they are a very happy couple.
A friendship that last for ten years is something to cherish. But a friendship that someone had to keep their feelings hidden is hard. Its true that total opposite attracts each other, yes that do have some things in common to make it work.
Asher just realized that she likes her best friend Linden after seeing her kiss someone. She doesn't know what to do about it but ask for help from Linden. Linden helps her get set up on the date app but really wants to go out with Asher but doesn't want to ruin their friendship. With some help from other friends and a physic teller they are a very happy couple.
March 28, 2025
I’ve been in a bit of a reading funk lately and haven’t been able to concentrate long enough to read. I have enjoyed all of Nicole Pyland’s books and I figured I would get into this book quickly. Thankfully I was right!
This book had my favorite theme: slow burn. I have enjoyed how different each book in this series has been. I enjoyed getting to know Linden and Asher and getting updated on characters from pervious books.
Overall April is a great read and manages to hook you early on in the book. I can always count on Pyland to create a story that draws me in.
This book had my favorite theme: slow burn. I have enjoyed how different each book in this series has been. I enjoyed getting to know Linden and Asher and getting updated on characters from pervious books.
Overall April is a great read and manages to hook you early on in the book. I can always count on Pyland to create a story that draws me in.
April 14, 2025
Asher and linden are a perfect team at work, so why not in life?
Nicole Pyland has painted another masterpiece in her New Orleans series. These two women, who have known each other for years, work as wedding planners in the same company and are besties. With the setting of New Orleans it can only intensify their relationship. I am delighted to say the painting in my mind is grateful to Nicole for sharing the love. The characters work so well together building a tension that begs for release. Happily the story concludes with the possibility of enduring love.
Nicole Pyland has painted another masterpiece in her New Orleans series. These two women, who have known each other for years, work as wedding planners in the same company and are besties. With the setting of New Orleans it can only intensify their relationship. I am delighted to say the painting in my mind is grateful to Nicole for sharing the love. The characters work so well together building a tension that begs for release. Happily the story concludes with the possibility of enduring love.
March 20, 2025
Book #4 NOLA series...Loved it!!! A story with awakening and friends to lover plot, count me in! This one had me from the beginning and left me wishing we could get another book of Asher and Linden! I feel like this story has so much for us to still explore. Maybe we could get like a bonus scene. Never even got to get into the bin :). Ok I don't want to say to much but this was an awesome story. Looking forward to the next one. Which I'm so excited about cause I have no idea who is next.
March 22, 2025
Best friends who become lovers, I loved this book! You have two women who are discovering who they really are and come to realization that they have feeling for their best friend. They don’t know what to do and are scared to tell the other person. Luckily they have some very pushy friends that devise a plan to bring them together. You must read to see how it ends, but I can say you won’t be disappointed.
April 3, 2025
Another great read!
I'm loving this New Orleans series and the best part is knowing there's another one coming next month. Nicole Pyland is my favorite lesfic author. The characters are well developed and likeable. This author is also prolific, if you're new to her work there's plenty of back catalogue to read through.
I'm loving this New Orleans series and the best part is knowing there's another one coming next month. Nicole Pyland is my favorite lesfic author. The characters are well developed and likeable. This author is also prolific, if you're new to her work there's plenty of back catalogue to read through.
April 6, 2025
Loved this one! Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and Nicole Pyland always handles it so well (with “Macon” my favorite prior to starting this one). Linden and Asher were clearly perfect for each other, and their gradual transformation from platonic best buds to romantic soulmates was beautiful to witness. Can’t wait for the next one!
April 8, 2025
In Nicole Pyland’s latest installment in the NOLA series, we meet Asher and Linden. It’s a beautiful later in life coming out story with a lovely side of best friends to lovers. Pyland also brings the setting to life with extensive details of New Orleans, which makes Asher’s and Linden’s love story even more magical.
April 8, 2025
Asher and Linden’s story is such a sweet friends-to-lovers story. It was awesome reading how they fall for each other and how their friends meddle in an delightful way, leading them to realize they may be more than friends. The meddlesome friends figure they just need a lil nudge in the right direction which is really sweet.
April 11, 2025
Another fantastic book in this series. Asher and Linden are best friends who harbor feelings for one another but don't want to risk their friendship but telling the other. Luckily their friends can see how they both are pining for one another and make a plan to help. Read to find out how this amazing story ends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2025
Wow I love this one so much the main characters were exceptional, attentive, loving and caring everything you want in a partner but they must first admit what they really want, it's a beautiful crafted love story my favourite out of this series so far a must-read congratulations
April 2, 2025
This book is a beautiful love story! Asher and Linden’s journey from best friends to something more is so sweet and emotional. Their feelings grow slowly, making every moment feel real and heartfelt. The story is full of love, friendship, and a little help from their meddling friends.
April 6, 2025
Enjoyable
Good series and easy to read. Really like the characters as they all help each other. Looking forward to the next one.
Good series and easy to read. Really like the characters as they all help each other. Looking forward to the next one.
April 7, 2025
romantic fun
Pyland writes good romance series. I’ve read all the others, and this is no exception. How the story flows is the key to the tale.
Pyland writes good romance series. I’ve read all the others, and this is no exception. How the story flows is the key to the tale.
April 8, 2025
Great book
Nicole can't wait for book 5. They have all been amazing. I just can't put them down. I finish them to quick
Nicole can't wait for book 5. They have all been amazing. I just can't put them down. I finish them to quick
May 21, 2025
71% for their first proper handhold.
73% for their first mediocre kiss.
I don't mind a slow-burn, but nothing happens in this book. Sigh.
73% for their first mediocre kiss.
I don't mind a slow-burn, but nothing happens in this book. Sigh.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews