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Murphy Family #2
Roll of the Dice
The dating might be fake, but the friendship with benefits just got real.
A shy gangly gamer and bubbly sorority girl agree to put aside their past grievances and swap favors in this queer college-aged fake dating romance.
Maeve Murphy is determined to make her junior year unforgettable. First up, find a way to appease her matchmaking mom before the next family wedding so she can focus on what’s important: planning the next sorority event and starting her own event planning business after college. But when the last person she expects to show up at her school throws a wrench in her plans, she refuses to allow the annoying lifeguard from her summer vacation to dull her sparkle, no matter how many times he pushes her buttons.
Connor O’Shea is trying to survive college without disappointing his dad. But the new school he’s attending won’t stop throwing obstacles in his way. Including the sassy summer thorn in his side who seems to excel at everything having a front row seat to all his struggles. If he can’t get his grades up, he can kiss his job prospects after college goodbye.
Maeve’s need for a fake boyfriend and Connor’s need for a tutor sparks what will either be the best trade of their life or the most dangerous game they’ve ever played.
A shy gangly gamer and bubbly sorority girl agree to put aside their past grievances and swap favors in this queer college-aged fake dating romance.
Maeve Murphy is determined to make her junior year unforgettable. First up, find a way to appease her matchmaking mom before the next family wedding so she can focus on what’s important: planning the next sorority event and starting her own event planning business after college. But when the last person she expects to show up at her school throws a wrench in her plans, she refuses to allow the annoying lifeguard from her summer vacation to dull her sparkle, no matter how many times he pushes her buttons.
Connor O’Shea is trying to survive college without disappointing his dad. But the new school he’s attending won’t stop throwing obstacles in his way. Including the sassy summer thorn in his side who seems to excel at everything having a front row seat to all his struggles. If he can’t get his grades up, he can kiss his job prospects after college goodbye.
Maeve’s need for a fake boyfriend and Connor’s need for a tutor sparks what will either be the best trade of their life or the most dangerous game they’ve ever played.
- GenresFake DatingRomance
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2025
4 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Kayla Martin
3 books66 followersKayla Martin (she/her) lives in Upstate New York with her husband and Neptune—her tuxedo cat and writing assistant. As an avid reader and audiobook lover, Kayla loves to write swoon-worthy stories that will pull at your heartstrings. Using her big family as inspiration, there is no shortage of hijinks and family meddling involved in each character's story. She believes in writing love stories that help you find joy while also exploring different human experiences about sexuality, mental health, and everything in between.
Connect with Kayla on her website at www.kaylamartinauthor.com to sign up for her newsletter and get early access to news about her latest book! Find Kayla on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
Connect with Kayla on her website at www.kaylamartinauthor.com to sign up for her newsletter and get early access to news about her latest book! Find Kayla on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 18, 2025
LISTEN TO ME. i loved this book so much.
KAYLA did that. She literally did that. Ate, no crumbs.
FIRST OF ALL. The way this book has everything. The chemistry between Connor and Maeve was UNBELIEVABLE. i was getting all swoony and hot and bothered just reading about them. Kayla truly had angst and yearning DRIPPPPINNNGGGG off every single page.
I am a fake dating STAN. It’s one of my favorite tropes and it can either be done super well, or it can be really tacky and this was sooooooo well done. The yearning was there, the tension was there. Truly it got to the point where i was SCREAMINNNGGGG at these two to open their eyes! 😆 but in the best way.
CONNOR. I ADORE Connor. I will actually take no criticism on him. argue with a wall. He is the perfect blend of protective, awkward, weird, sweet, funny and nerdy book boyfriend ever. LITERALLY I need a Connor immediately. Sometimes the virgin trope gives me the ick cuz it’s done in a way that doesn’t feel authentic, but this felt so real and raw and i just. SIGH. i love him ok?
Meave started likeable, but by the end I loved her and all her pink glory. As someone who was in a sorority in college, i saw myself in her a lot and just juggling 283747933 different things. I loved watched her hard exterior crack as I read the book.
I loved the (what i inferred) Love Island nods. 👏🏼
AND YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID NEAR THE END THERE KAYLA. I WON’T FORGIVE YOU FOR THAT.
Truly. I didn’t know how she was going to top book 1, but she didn’t just top it she blasted through the ceiling. Top tier. Amazing. No notes. Immediately read it when it releases or else.
The Vibes:
-Fake Dating
-Opposites Attract
-Enemies to Lovers
-College Romance
-Only One Bed
-Queer Goodness
-Board Games
-YEARNING & TENSION (literally, you’ll eat it up)
KAYLA did that. She literally did that. Ate, no crumbs.
FIRST OF ALL. The way this book has everything. The chemistry between Connor and Maeve was UNBELIEVABLE. i was getting all swoony and hot and bothered just reading about them. Kayla truly had angst and yearning DRIPPPPINNNGGGG off every single page.
I am a fake dating STAN. It’s one of my favorite tropes and it can either be done super well, or it can be really tacky and this was sooooooo well done. The yearning was there, the tension was there. Truly it got to the point where i was SCREAMINNNGGGG at these two to open their eyes! 😆 but in the best way.
CONNOR. I ADORE Connor. I will actually take no criticism on him. argue with a wall. He is the perfect blend of protective, awkward, weird, sweet, funny and nerdy book boyfriend ever. LITERALLY I need a Connor immediately. Sometimes the virgin trope gives me the ick cuz it’s done in a way that doesn’t feel authentic, but this felt so real and raw and i just. SIGH. i love him ok?
Meave started likeable, but by the end I loved her and all her pink glory. As someone who was in a sorority in college, i saw myself in her a lot and just juggling 283747933 different things. I loved watched her hard exterior crack as I read the book.
I loved the (what i inferred) Love Island nods. 👏🏼
AND YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID NEAR THE END THERE KAYLA. I WON’T FORGIVE YOU FOR THAT.
Truly. I didn’t know how she was going to top book 1, but she didn’t just top it she blasted through the ceiling. Top tier. Amazing. No notes. Immediately read it when it releases or else.
The Vibes:
-Fake Dating
-Opposites Attract
-Enemies to Lovers
-College Romance
-Only One Bed
-Queer Goodness
-Board Games
-YEARNING & TENSION (literally, you’ll eat it up)
September 7, 2025
4 stars.
"Roll of the Dice" by Kayla Martin is really good! I enjoyed reading this fake dating enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy. I was a little concerned about connecting to the college-aged protagonists since I am a ~*40-something,~* but they were totally relatable. I loved watching how Maeve and Connor started out as "enemies," slowly becoming friends, and then becoming more. Martin takes the proper amount of time to get the audience invested in both their friendship *and* their coupling. The best part about their relationship is their banter! Maeve is a slight black cat character who can be hot and cold and sassy and sensitive, and Connor is an affable, goofy fool. They play off of one another well, and they give and take right back to one another. There are tons of laughs in this story. I also loved all of the board game shenanigans! As someone who loves board games, this really hit the spot for me. I loved watching them get to know each other over dice and cards and boards. I adored how Connor was obsessed with horror movies, too! Since I am a huge horror fan, this resonated with me as well. I loved the part when Maeve went to Connor's childhood bedroom at home and he had all of the horror monster posters everywhere.... we have horror monster movie posters in our spare bedroom!! This book is also surprisingly deep at times. Maeve wants to break out of her mom's "shadow." Since she has always sort of followed in her footsteps and done everything she ever wanted her to do, her mom doesn't always trust her judgment. Maeve has to learn to be more assertive when she tells people what she wants, and Connor does, too, just in other ways. /smirk. My one complaint is that their back-and-forth rivalry probably could have been cut down by a little. It felt like it kept going on and on, and I just wanted them to figure it all out already! Overall, though, I just had a good time reading this sweet, spicy, adorkable book.
Thank you to Kayla Martin for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"Roll of the Dice" by Kayla Martin is really good! I enjoyed reading this fake dating enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy. I was a little concerned about connecting to the college-aged protagonists since I am a ~*40-something,~* but they were totally relatable. I loved watching how Maeve and Connor started out as "enemies," slowly becoming friends, and then becoming more. Martin takes the proper amount of time to get the audience invested in both their friendship *and* their coupling. The best part about their relationship is their banter! Maeve is a slight black cat character who can be hot and cold and sassy and sensitive, and Connor is an affable, goofy fool. They play off of one another well, and they give and take right back to one another. There are tons of laughs in this story. I also loved all of the board game shenanigans! As someone who loves board games, this really hit the spot for me. I loved watching them get to know each other over dice and cards and boards. I adored how Connor was obsessed with horror movies, too! Since I am a huge horror fan, this resonated with me as well. I loved the part when Maeve went to Connor's childhood bedroom at home and he had all of the horror monster posters everywhere.... we have horror monster movie posters in our spare bedroom!! This book is also surprisingly deep at times. Maeve wants to break out of her mom's "shadow." Since she has always sort of followed in her footsteps and done everything she ever wanted her to do, her mom doesn't always trust her judgment. Maeve has to learn to be more assertive when she tells people what she wants, and Connor does, too, just in other ways. /smirk. My one complaint is that their back-and-forth rivalry probably could have been cut down by a little. It felt like it kept going on and on, and I just wanted them to figure it all out already! Overall, though, I just had a good time reading this sweet, spicy, adorkable book.
Thank you to Kayla Martin for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
September 6, 2025
First of all, thank you to the author, Kayla Martin, for letting me ARC read Roll of the Dice!
I swear that Kayla has done it once again and written a book that was just utterly perfect (for me) from start to finish. I normally don’t gravitate to college romances, but these two?! THESE TWO! I adore each of them and their banter back and forth. And the FMC was such a spitfire (did I mention she’s pierced!!)! I LOVE her attitude and the MMC’s nerdiness and vulnerability. Also the spice in this was *spicing* when it happened, and yet I also found myself in actual TEARS because this book got really emotional towards the end.
This was absolutely a 5⭐️ read for me, and I am soooooo happy that I preordered a signed copy to put up on my shelf and read again. 🥹
I swear that Kayla has done it once again and written a book that was just utterly perfect (for me) from start to finish. I normally don’t gravitate to college romances, but these two?! THESE TWO! I adore each of them and their banter back and forth. And the FMC was such a spitfire (did I mention she’s pierced!!)! I LOVE her attitude and the MMC’s nerdiness and vulnerability. Also the spice in this was *spicing* when it happened, and yet I also found myself in actual TEARS because this book got really emotional towards the end.
This was absolutely a 5⭐️ read for me, and I am soooooo happy that I preordered a signed copy to put up on my shelf and read again. 🥹
August 30, 2025
thank you to kayla for the arc!!! i love supporting you so much!!!
this is perfect for what it is- i loved how they got close and fell in love. so fun and silly but had some serious themes towards the end as well.
this is perfect for what it is- i loved how they got close and fell in love. so fun and silly but had some serious themes towards the end as well.
August 19, 2025
I was excited for this book because I loved. A Thousand Sunsets so much, but also I was nervous it wouldn’t live up to the hype. I definitely shouldn’t have doubted Kayla because this was better than book 1. I read this one within a day because I could not put it down! You can really tell her writing and story flow has improved, and even though it was great book 1 it’s cool to see her grow as an author.
Also I read the TW/CW and still the ending shocked me. I cried and will be mailing Kayla my therapy bill. As always she writes great spice, funny moments, and made me fall even more in love with the Murphy family.
Thank you to Black Willow Bay Publishing and the author for an arc.
Also I read the TW/CW and still the ending shocked me. I cried and will be mailing Kayla my therapy bill. As always she writes great spice, funny moments, and made me fall even more in love with the Murphy family.
Thank you to Black Willow Bay Publishing and the author for an arc.
September 4, 2025
*will update when I’m more awake but this was 5 stars 😌🤪*
September 17, 2025
If you love a Bergman Brothers (and Sisters) style tight-knit big family where everyone is each other’s business, then look no further. This series will be right up your alley!
Roll of the Dice is book 2 in the Murphy Family series. It’s got:
-Fake dating (“We definitely won’t catch feelings!”)
-Queer rep (bi and demi)
-Gamer boy (including board games) x sorority girl (opposites attract)
-Only one bed (a genre fave)
I adored A Thousand Sunsets, but somehow this was even more? Kayla’s writing just keeps getting better and better. The banter, the chemistry, the tension! And I’d be remiss not to mention all the Emotions and Feelings Kayla packed into this book, as well. It’s good, friends.
Roll of the Dice is book 2 in the Murphy Family series. It’s got:
-Fake dating (“We definitely won’t catch feelings!”)
-Queer rep (bi and demi)
-Gamer boy (including board games) x sorority girl (opposites attract)
-Only one bed (a genre fave)
I adored A Thousand Sunsets, but somehow this was even more? Kayla’s writing just keeps getting better and better. The banter, the chemistry, the tension! And I’d be remiss not to mention all the Emotions and Feelings Kayla packed into this book, as well. It’s good, friends.
October 20, 2025
What to expect:
- Fake dating
- Queer rep (bi and demi)
- Gamer boy x sorority girl (opposites attract)
- We love the Murphy fam clan
- Found family (Baywatch Bois)
Kayla has done it again, and I’m once more yelling from the rooftops that everyone needs to read Roll of the Dice ASAP. What didn’t I love? Exactly -- nothing. The banter, the chemistry, the tension, the tenderness -- it had it all. This book felt like a warm hug wrapped in a soft hoodie and gamer dice. I had a whole note in my phone for all the moments that made me squeal, so let me take you through some of my favorites.
Maeve and Connor’s fake dating setup was everything, but what really melted me were the tiny gestures. Like the moment at the frat party when Maeve calls Connor for a ride and spots the little rubber ducks in his Jeep—immediately naming them Quackers, Sunny, and Toothless. It’s such a silly yet telling moment; she’s instantly comfortable with him, already bringing color into his world. Then there’s that scene when they’re studying and she closes the door so her sisters stop interrupting—it shows Maeve prioritizing Connor, making space for him in her life. And the flashcards?! Like, be for real, that’s love language coded.
Kayla Martin just gets the quiet power of tenderness. From Maeve comforting Connor after his exam (and seeing him cry, so raw and vulnerable), to her noticing every detail about him—the shoes, the citrus scent, the way his mind spirals—you can literally feel her falling piece by piece. And Connor? The definition of soft boy gold standard. When Maeve’s in pain, he immediately drives her to urgent care and stays through the entire break just to make sure she’s okay. Their hugs, couch naps, and the gentle “Can I kiss you?” moments had me absolutely feral.
“Okay, Barbie, I’ll trust you.”
“Maybe if we win this I’ll get you pink dice.”
“I like when you yap. I can tell you’re really passionate about this.”
When Maeve suggests playing a board game to distract Connor from his anxiety about exams, my heart legit exploded. It’s not just a cute activity but it’s his safe space, his link to his dad.
“After yesterday he needs a win, while I’m simply competitive and want to win.”
And that first kiss? During the long game night? I actually kicked my feet. Respectful, gentle, slightly chaotic — peak romance energy.
It’s all in the details. The pink ducks. The cider slushies. The way he notices her dress strap slipping. The gum she forgets she has. The chocolate he remembers she likes. The way he comfronted her mom and says,
“She looks beautiful, plus she can have my jacket if she gets cold.”
And then—the watch. Maeve fixing Connor’s dad’s watch for graduation had me sobbing into my hoodie. After everything, that gesture tied their story together in the most heartfelt way.
Roll of the Dice is the perfect blend of humor, slow-burn tension, and raw emotion. It’s about connection, trust, and the beauty of finding someone who makes you feel seen—rubber ducks, board games, and all. Kayla Martin proves once again she’s one of the best at writing love that feels real, warm, and utterly human. If you loved the Bergamdn Brothers and A Thousand Sunsets and missed the Murphy family, this one will steal your heart too.
ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. (And what an honour it was!) I love my physical copy and can't wait to discuss it for Bookclub. Thank you for the opportunity!
- Fake dating
- Queer rep (bi and demi)
- Gamer boy x sorority girl (opposites attract)
- We love the Murphy fam clan
- Found family (Baywatch Bois)
Kayla has done it again, and I’m once more yelling from the rooftops that everyone needs to read Roll of the Dice ASAP. What didn’t I love? Exactly -- nothing. The banter, the chemistry, the tension, the tenderness -- it had it all. This book felt like a warm hug wrapped in a soft hoodie and gamer dice. I had a whole note in my phone for all the moments that made me squeal, so let me take you through some of my favorites.
Maeve and Connor’s fake dating setup was everything, but what really melted me were the tiny gestures. Like the moment at the frat party when Maeve calls Connor for a ride and spots the little rubber ducks in his Jeep—immediately naming them Quackers, Sunny, and Toothless. It’s such a silly yet telling moment; she’s instantly comfortable with him, already bringing color into his world. Then there’s that scene when they’re studying and she closes the door so her sisters stop interrupting—it shows Maeve prioritizing Connor, making space for him in her life. And the flashcards?! Like, be for real, that’s love language coded.
Kayla Martin just gets the quiet power of tenderness. From Maeve comforting Connor after his exam (and seeing him cry, so raw and vulnerable), to her noticing every detail about him—the shoes, the citrus scent, the way his mind spirals—you can literally feel her falling piece by piece. And Connor? The definition of soft boy gold standard. When Maeve’s in pain, he immediately drives her to urgent care and stays through the entire break just to make sure she’s okay. Their hugs, couch naps, and the gentle “Can I kiss you?” moments had me absolutely feral.
“Okay, Barbie, I’ll trust you.”
“Maybe if we win this I’ll get you pink dice.”
“I like when you yap. I can tell you’re really passionate about this.”
When Maeve suggests playing a board game to distract Connor from his anxiety about exams, my heart legit exploded. It’s not just a cute activity but it’s his safe space, his link to his dad.
“After yesterday he needs a win, while I’m simply competitive and want to win.”
And that first kiss? During the long game night? I actually kicked my feet. Respectful, gentle, slightly chaotic — peak romance energy.
It’s all in the details. The pink ducks. The cider slushies. The way he notices her dress strap slipping. The gum she forgets she has. The chocolate he remembers she likes. The way he comfronted her mom and says,
“She looks beautiful, plus she can have my jacket if she gets cold.”
And then—the watch. Maeve fixing Connor’s dad’s watch for graduation had me sobbing into my hoodie. After everything, that gesture tied their story together in the most heartfelt way.
Roll of the Dice is the perfect blend of humor, slow-burn tension, and raw emotion. It’s about connection, trust, and the beauty of finding someone who makes you feel seen—rubber ducks, board games, and all. Kayla Martin proves once again she’s one of the best at writing love that feels real, warm, and utterly human. If you loved the Bergamdn Brothers and A Thousand Sunsets and missed the Murphy family, this one will steal your heart too.
ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. (And what an honour it was!) I love my physical copy and can't wait to discuss it for Bookclub. Thank you for the opportunity!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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September 21, 2025ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity!
DNF 20%
I have tried multiple times to get into this, but the dialogue is very clunky and unrealistic. I don't get any tension or feeling between the two characters. They say they hate each other and there is nothing else to indicate those feelings beyond their words. There is a thin line between love and hate but all I feel is indifference, there is no chemistry or palpable feeling between them.
DNF 20%
I have tried multiple times to get into this, but the dialogue is very clunky and unrealistic. I don't get any tension or feeling between the two characters. They say they hate each other and there is nothing else to indicate those feelings beyond their words. There is a thin line between love and hate but all I feel is indifference, there is no chemistry or palpable feeling between them.
September 6, 2025
Kayla has done it again!!! I love the Murphy family!!!
This was SO fun. Connor & Maeve had insane chemistry; I loved giggling and kicking my feet as I read🤭💗 And come on - who doesn’t love a redhead!?Reading a story that takes place on a college campus had me feeling nostalgic #ilovefred #iykyk
I need to note though: I cried a LOT at the end. But isn’t that the beautiful thing? When reading makes you FEEL!?
Ugh, absolutely brilliant! Thank you, Kayla, for my ARC. Can’t wait to get my hands on a tangible copy🥰
This was SO fun. Connor & Maeve had insane chemistry; I loved giggling and kicking my feet as I read🤭💗 And come on - who doesn’t love a redhead!?Reading a story that takes place on a college campus had me feeling nostalgic #ilovefred #iykyk
I need to note though: I cried a LOT at the end. But isn’t that the beautiful thing? When reading makes you FEEL!?
Ugh, absolutely brilliant! Thank you, Kayla, for my ARC. Can’t wait to get my hands on a tangible copy🥰
August 10, 2025
Loved it - 4.5 stars!
Review to come but huge thanks to Kayla for an ARC!
Review to come but huge thanks to Kayla for an ARC!
August 13, 2025
I stayed up way to late reading this because I had to finish the last 35% after work. Connor and Maeve had one of the best banter/dynamic I have read so far. I love an emotionally raw mmc, and a girl boss fmc. I am so thankful to have been able to read this early. After reading the first one I was so excited for the second one. I can’t wait for more Murphy family adventures.
August 15, 2025
This was so sweet. Funny and Wholesome. Feel good Rom I didn’t know I needed. Thank you to the author for the ARC.
September 16, 2025
This was a very cute university fake dating, enemies-to-lovers romance! Not at all what I was expecting from book 2 I'll be honest but that is by no means a bad thing! When I finished book 1 I assumed the next one would be another Summery romance with the whole family on their annual Thousand Islands holiday. Maybe Ryan and Cy's story? There was a little Maeve and Connor setup in there but I definitely assumed their story would happen on a holiday too since Connor was another of the lifeguards there. But like I said, this is not a complaint in ANY way because I adore college/university romances and we still got to see some of the wider Murphy family, in particular Hannah who's Maeve's roommate there too, and Maeve's brother Ryan.
Connor's transferred unis to get more help with his grades and since they're not friends neither of them know the other will be there which is a nice (horrible) surprise for them. I loved the way their story progressed, from hating that one class they shared and trying to avoid each other to realising they could both help each other out since Maeve needs a fake date for a wedding and Connor still needs help studying and then developing a friendship and something more. It was so lovely to see how once they decided to actually get to know each other and stop just hating, they worked so well together and were so supportive even before the other feelings developed. I loved the board gaming too! There was also some good LGBT+ rep involved too. A passing mention that Maeve is bi, but a healthy dose of demisexual rep from Connor which I've not seen before.
There was one bit near the end that I'll be honest, I didn't like. I can't spoiler what it was because it is very spoilery but it just seemed unnecessary to me and made me sad. I get why it happened but I don't have to like it haha! I did like how it was handled though and the way both Connor and Maeve reacted to it was lovely, unlike sometimes happens in other books so it could definitely have been worse!
Overall though I once again loved this book and Kayla's writing! It could be read as a standalone if for some reason you really didn't want to read the first one? But you will of course get some spoilers for book 1 if you read out of order, with this one being set between the main end of the book and the epilogue. I can't wait to see who the next Murphy cousin to get their story will be... Could finally be Ryan but I'm not convinced he won't be given a bit more time haha. Either way I know I'm going to love it!
Connor's transferred unis to get more help with his grades and since they're not friends neither of them know the other will be there which is a nice (horrible) surprise for them. I loved the way their story progressed, from hating that one class they shared and trying to avoid each other to realising they could both help each other out since Maeve needs a fake date for a wedding and Connor still needs help studying and then developing a friendship and something more. It was so lovely to see how once they decided to actually get to know each other and stop just hating, they worked so well together and were so supportive even before the other feelings developed. I loved the board gaming too! There was also some good LGBT+ rep involved too. A passing mention that Maeve is bi, but a healthy dose of demisexual rep from Connor which I've not seen before.
There was one bit near the end that I'll be honest, I didn't like. I can't spoiler what it was because it is very spoilery but it just seemed unnecessary to me and made me sad. I get why it happened but I don't have to like it haha! I did like how it was handled though and the way both Connor and Maeve reacted to it was lovely, unlike sometimes happens in other books so it could definitely have been worse!
Overall though I once again loved this book and Kayla's writing! It could be read as a standalone if for some reason you really didn't want to read the first one? But you will of course get some spoilers for book 1 if you read out of order, with this one being set between the main end of the book and the epilogue. I can't wait to see who the next Murphy cousin to get their story will be... Could finally be Ryan but I'm not convinced he won't be given a bit more time haha. Either way I know I'm going to love it!
September 5, 2025
5 stars isn’t enough. Not in the slightest. ♾️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I didn’t finish Roll of the Dice. Roll of the Dice finished me. There are no words to describe how much I adored this book or how proud I am of Kayla. I laughed. I cried. I smiled. I ate mac and cheese (IYKYK).
Connor & Maeve will absolutely live rent free in my head. And I will protect them forever, Your Honor. Connor is my sweet little red head nerd baby who I want to hug and never let go. And Maeve? Well, I can’t decide if I want her to kiss me or punch me in the face. The answer is both btw. 😅
Connor & Maeve’s chemistry wasn’t only sizzling, but it was genuine. Their bond was truly unmatched. Kayla has a way of making you fall in love with her characters because they’re extremely relatable. Her characters feel like home and comfort for me, which is one of the reasons I will never stop recommending her books. I resonated so much with Connor’s overthinking and Maeve’s anxiety. I don’t want to say anything else because I want you to meet them and see how amazing they are individually and together. There are so many cute moments and things they do for each other that will warm your heart and make you swoon. Just know that their love story is worth it.
As always, Kayla is a phenomenal author. Her magnetic writing is 100% guaranteed to pull you in making you binge this book in one sitting. The pacing is appropriate and everything happens naturally. How’s the spice you ask? 10/10. No hesitation. No complaints. No notes. I don’t call her Kayla Martin, Spice Queen for nothing. 😂 My girl knows how to write spice…good lord…sweet baby Jesus 🥵
What you’ll find in Roll of the Dice:
🩷 shy gamer guy x bubbly sorority girl
🧡 set in college
🩷 queer rep: bisexual FMC & demisexual MMC
🧡 dual POV
🩷 open door spice
🧡 fake dating
🩷 opposites attract
🧡 enemies to lovers
🩷 caretaking
Kayla, thank you for letting me text you live reading updates. It’s always a blast blowing up your phone screaming about your books. I’m incredibly proud of you my friend! 🫶🏻
Thank you to Kayla Martin for the advanced reader’s copy!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I didn’t finish Roll of the Dice. Roll of the Dice finished me. There are no words to describe how much I adored this book or how proud I am of Kayla. I laughed. I cried. I smiled. I ate mac and cheese (IYKYK).
Connor & Maeve will absolutely live rent free in my head. And I will protect them forever, Your Honor. Connor is my sweet little red head nerd baby who I want to hug and never let go. And Maeve? Well, I can’t decide if I want her to kiss me or punch me in the face. The answer is both btw. 😅
Connor & Maeve’s chemistry wasn’t only sizzling, but it was genuine. Their bond was truly unmatched. Kayla has a way of making you fall in love with her characters because they’re extremely relatable. Her characters feel like home and comfort for me, which is one of the reasons I will never stop recommending her books. I resonated so much with Connor’s overthinking and Maeve’s anxiety. I don’t want to say anything else because I want you to meet them and see how amazing they are individually and together. There are so many cute moments and things they do for each other that will warm your heart and make you swoon. Just know that their love story is worth it.
As always, Kayla is a phenomenal author. Her magnetic writing is 100% guaranteed to pull you in making you binge this book in one sitting. The pacing is appropriate and everything happens naturally. How’s the spice you ask? 10/10. No hesitation. No complaints. No notes. I don’t call her Kayla Martin, Spice Queen for nothing. 😂 My girl knows how to write spice…good lord…sweet baby Jesus 🥵
What you’ll find in Roll of the Dice:
🩷 shy gamer guy x bubbly sorority girl
🧡 set in college
🩷 queer rep: bisexual FMC & demisexual MMC
🧡 dual POV
🩷 open door spice
🧡 fake dating
🩷 opposites attract
🧡 enemies to lovers
🩷 caretaking
Kayla, thank you for letting me text you live reading updates. It’s always a blast blowing up your phone screaming about your books. I’m incredibly proud of you my friend! 🫶🏻
Thank you to Kayla Martin for the advanced reader’s copy!
August 10, 2025
This was such a cute, fun college romance that had me smiling almost the entire time. I’m a sucker for a fake dating setup, and Kayla Martin delivered it with all the charm, banter, and slow burn feelings I could ask for. I loved watching Maeve and Connor go from “we mildly annoy each other” to “we actually can’t stop thinking about each other” while insisting it’s all just part of the plan. Spoiler: it’s not.
Kayla really shines when it comes to representation, and it was a huge highlight here. From diverse characters to meaningful personal struggles, the story felt inclusive in a way that was natural and really resonated with me. I also think her writing has grown since previous works, and while there’s still a bit of room for polish, the improvement was noticeable and exciting to see.
Maeve is bubbly, determined, and just the right amount of sassy. I adored her energy and her bond with the entire Murphy family. They added so much warmth and humor. Connor completely stole my heart. He’s sweet, hardworking, and dealing with the pressure of not wanting to disappoint his dad. His learning disability storyline was handled with care, and it made me root for him even harder. Also, he’s the virgin in this romance, which I loved seeing because it added a refreshing twist to the spice, which was very well done.
This is a story about two people who start out as a convenience for each other, like Maeve needing a fake boyfriend for family reasons and Connor needing a tutor to keep his grades up, and slowly become the most important person in each other’s lives. It’s wholesome, sweet, and spicy to boot.
Overall, Roll of the Dice is adorable and super feel good that I had such a good time reading. I’m already counting down the days until I get more of the Murphy family in future books.
Thank you to Kayla Martin for the eARC of this book.
Kayla really shines when it comes to representation, and it was a huge highlight here. From diverse characters to meaningful personal struggles, the story felt inclusive in a way that was natural and really resonated with me. I also think her writing has grown since previous works, and while there’s still a bit of room for polish, the improvement was noticeable and exciting to see.
Maeve is bubbly, determined, and just the right amount of sassy. I adored her energy and her bond with the entire Murphy family. They added so much warmth and humor. Connor completely stole my heart. He’s sweet, hardworking, and dealing with the pressure of not wanting to disappoint his dad. His learning disability storyline was handled with care, and it made me root for him even harder. Also, he’s the virgin in this romance, which I loved seeing because it added a refreshing twist to the spice, which was very well done.
This is a story about two people who start out as a convenience for each other, like Maeve needing a fake boyfriend for family reasons and Connor needing a tutor to keep his grades up, and slowly become the most important person in each other’s lives. It’s wholesome, sweet, and spicy to boot.
Overall, Roll of the Dice is adorable and super feel good that I had such a good time reading. I’m already counting down the days until I get more of the Murphy family in future books.
Thank you to Kayla Martin for the eARC of this book.
September 6, 2025
this book was funny and sweet with some bit of emotional damage mixed in. we met maeve and connor in kayla’s first book, A THOUSAND SUNSETS, so we already knew they were in the “enemies” territory. there was so much tension and animosity between them - “hate is a feeling too.” it was such a treat seeing them being out of the vacation setting amongst friends and family, and now in forced proximity at school, and realizing they actually need each other’s help.
one thing i remember from kayla’s first book and what i absolutely loved about this one too, is she is SO GOOD at writing intimacy, both spicy and non-spicy moments. once these enemies started to become friends, it was so clear how good they were together. both connor and maeve have huge loving support systems, but what they have with each other is on a whole other level. they were always there in times of comfort, sharing in the good and the bad, shared an openness with each other, and just showed up in the exact ways they needed.
📚 book 2 of the murphy family romance series - don’t worry, there’s a family tree
📝 summer vacation enemies turned classmates
❤️🔥 opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, enemies to fake dating to lovers
🎲 he’s a gamer who’s just looking for the right person to play a 3-hr long game with him
💁♀️ sorority sister who’s doing the most
🌶️ just two queer (bisexual & demisexual) horny babes experimenting
🩷🖤 she exclusively wears pink, he exclusively wears black
🧀 making mac & cheese is a love language
🥂 murphy family shenanigans - literally cannot wait to see more of them in future books
🥰 caretaking scenes but they take turns taking care of each other
‼️ also…i struggle big time with grief and death in books, and kayla wrote some pretty big intense feelings that felt very real. she does such a fabulous job representing the caretaking side of grief, which i truly appreciate. do yourself a favor and make sure to read the author’s note she so thoughtfully added at the beginning for any trigger warnings.
thank you so much for the arc kayla! i absolutely loved it and can’t wait for more of the murphy fam!!
one thing i remember from kayla’s first book and what i absolutely loved about this one too, is she is SO GOOD at writing intimacy, both spicy and non-spicy moments. once these enemies started to become friends, it was so clear how good they were together. both connor and maeve have huge loving support systems, but what they have with each other is on a whole other level. they were always there in times of comfort, sharing in the good and the bad, shared an openness with each other, and just showed up in the exact ways they needed.
📚 book 2 of the murphy family romance series - don’t worry, there’s a family tree
📝 summer vacation enemies turned classmates
❤️🔥 opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, enemies to fake dating to lovers
🎲 he’s a gamer who’s just looking for the right person to play a 3-hr long game with him
💁♀️ sorority sister who’s doing the most
🌶️ just two queer (bisexual & demisexual) horny babes experimenting
🩷🖤 she exclusively wears pink, he exclusively wears black
🧀 making mac & cheese is a love language
🥂 murphy family shenanigans - literally cannot wait to see more of them in future books
🥰 caretaking scenes but they take turns taking care of each other
‼️ also…i struggle big time with grief and death in books, and kayla wrote some pretty big intense feelings that felt very real. she does such a fabulous job representing the caretaking side of grief, which i truly appreciate. do yourself a favor and make sure to read the author’s note she so thoughtfully added at the beginning for any trigger warnings.
thank you so much for the arc kayla! i absolutely loved it and can’t wait for more of the murphy fam!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2025
Book Review: Roll of the Dice by Kayla Martin
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Roll of the Dice is a heartfelt, slow-burn romance that beautifully balances wit, emotion, and chemistry. Mauve — yes, like the color — is a fierce, fiery, and determined heroine, equal parts lovable and bold. Connor, in contrast, is her quiet, guarded counterpart, and the two strike a perfect opposites-attract dynamic that draws you in from the very beginning.
Their story kicks off with a classic fake-dating setup — Mauve wants to get her mom off her back about settling down before graduation, and Connor, in need of tutoring, agrees to play the role. But what starts as a lighthearted arrangement quickly deepens. Their banter turns into real connection. They bicker, they bond, they begin to experiment with feelings neither of them expected.
One of the book’s most powerful threads is the emotional undercurrent. As Mauve supports Connor through a deeply traumatic experience, their relationship shifts from fake to fiercely real. You feel every beat of their hesitation, every missed opportunity to speak their hearts, and every longing glance. Everyone around them can see they’re in love — except them. It’s the kind of will-they-won’t-they tension that makes your heart ache in the best way.
When their long-overdue confession finally comes — on New Year’s — it’s satisfying, emotional, and entirely worth the wait. Kayla Martin delivers a story filled with tension, tenderness, and two beautifully crafted characters who truly earn their happily ever after.
Highly recommend for fans of slow-burn romance, fake dating tropes, and characters who grow into each other in the most genuine way.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Roll of the Dice is a heartfelt, slow-burn romance that beautifully balances wit, emotion, and chemistry. Mauve — yes, like the color — is a fierce, fiery, and determined heroine, equal parts lovable and bold. Connor, in contrast, is her quiet, guarded counterpart, and the two strike a perfect opposites-attract dynamic that draws you in from the very beginning.
Their story kicks off with a classic fake-dating setup — Mauve wants to get her mom off her back about settling down before graduation, and Connor, in need of tutoring, agrees to play the role. But what starts as a lighthearted arrangement quickly deepens. Their banter turns into real connection. They bicker, they bond, they begin to experiment with feelings neither of them expected.
One of the book’s most powerful threads is the emotional undercurrent. As Mauve supports Connor through a deeply traumatic experience, their relationship shifts from fake to fiercely real. You feel every beat of their hesitation, every missed opportunity to speak their hearts, and every longing glance. Everyone around them can see they’re in love — except them. It’s the kind of will-they-won’t-they tension that makes your heart ache in the best way.
When their long-overdue confession finally comes — on New Year’s — it’s satisfying, emotional, and entirely worth the wait. Kayla Martin delivers a story filled with tension, tenderness, and two beautifully crafted characters who truly earn their happily ever after.
Highly recommend for fans of slow-burn romance, fake dating tropes, and characters who grow into each other in the most genuine way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2025
Roll of the Dice is a spicy enemies to lovers college romance. Maeve, the female main character, is in her junior year of college and is trying to placate her matchmaking mother before the next family wedding by putting out a call for a fake date. Connor, the male main character, just transferred colleges and is struggling to keep up in his classes. Maeve loathes Connor ever since he was the lifeguard at her family’s summer vacation spot. However, both in need of some serious help, the two strike up a mutually beneficial arrangement. Maeve will tutor Connor if he agrees to be her fake date for the wedding, but neither of them expected to catch feelings in the process. Connor is a total cinnamon roll main character and his gamer ways couldn’t be more opposite to Maeve’s sorority girl lifestyle. This book perfectly captures how differences can actually bring two people together if they open their hearts to one another. This is a great read to pick up if you enjoy spice, enemies to lovers, fake dating, and a down bad mmc! Thank you to the author for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 25, 2025
Roll of the Dice is the second book in Kayla Martin’s Murphy family series and it was everything I hoped it would be and so much more! See author’s note at the beginning of the book for content warnings.
This was one of my most anticipated read this year and it was absolutely fantastic! The fall vibes make this the perfect read for this time of year. Connor’s passion for board games reminded me of so many people in my family, especially my dad, two of his brothers, and one of my cousins. I kind of got some MicroMacro vibes from Eldritch Horror.
From their first interactions on the page, it is very clear Maeve and Connor do not like each other, but because they’ve spent a lot of time together during the summer, they have some pretty great chemistry. They are complete opposites, yet they work so well together and it never felt like they were faking it. Maeve is very outgoing and confident and Connor is the shy nerdy boy of my heart!
I always say that enemies to lovers makes for spicier books, and that was definitely the case here. Although there only about 5 spicy chapters, they are definitely 🔥!
Thank you Kayla for the eARC and having me on your street team! I’m excited to see which Murphy cousin gets the next book! If you’re looking for a romance for the fall with both sweetness and spice, this is the book for you.
This was one of my most anticipated read this year and it was absolutely fantastic! The fall vibes make this the perfect read for this time of year. Connor’s passion for board games reminded me of so many people in my family, especially my dad, two of his brothers, and one of my cousins. I kind of got some MicroMacro vibes from Eldritch Horror.
From their first interactions on the page, it is very clear Maeve and Connor do not like each other, but because they’ve spent a lot of time together during the summer, they have some pretty great chemistry. They are complete opposites, yet they work so well together and it never felt like they were faking it. Maeve is very outgoing and confident and Connor is the shy nerdy boy of my heart!
I always say that enemies to lovers makes for spicier books, and that was definitely the case here. Although there only about 5 spicy chapters, they are definitely 🔥!
Thank you Kayla for the eARC and having me on your street team! I’m excited to see which Murphy cousin gets the next book! If you’re looking for a romance for the fall with both sweetness and spice, this is the book for you.
August 24, 2025
This is a new to me author, and I haven't read the first book - but WOW! I was blown away by this book! It was sweet, steamy, full of emotions and one of the best fake dating reads for me this year. FMC Maeve is strong, girl boss, knows what she wants and totally in charge (mostly, but when it counts - YESSSS GIRL!) MMC Conner a little weird, nerdy and awkward in ALL the best ways, but he's protective and just so authentic! I didn't realize we were getting a virgin MMC - it's not my favorite trope to read about because it's hard to make it feel genuine and Kayla NAILED it. It will be the standard moving forward! We also get Enemies - Friends - Lovers. I appreciated that we moved pretty quickly from the enemy to friend stage. I loved watching them both own up to their side of how/why they actually were in "enemy" category. I loved their chemistry, I loved the banter and how when one needed the other they showed up. Get this on your TBR - you'll be glad you did! Thank you Kayla Martin for a chance to be an ARC reader for you!!
August 26, 2025
🎲✨ Review: Roll of the Dice by Kayla Martin ✨🎲
Okay, let’s just get this out of the way: this book rolled me right over. 🥹 This was my second Kayla Martin read and honestly? She did it again. I laughed, I swooned, and yes—I actually cried real tears. Like, ugly-sob-in-bed cried. (Kayla, why are you like this?? 😭)
Maeve and Connor’s dynamic? Chef’s kiss. The bubbly sorority girl vs. the shy gamer boy gave me all the banter, all the sass, and all the heart. Their fake dating arrangement had me grinning like an idiot, but the emotional punch near the end hit harder than I expected. One moment I’m laughing at their snarky exchanges, the next I’m clutching my chest whispering, “not me crying over a fake dating romcom…”
And ohhh the spice. 🌶️ Let’s just say, this “cute” college romance definitely had some unexpected heat. My Kindle may or may not still be blushing.
What I loved most, though, was the balance—lighthearted laughs, heartfelt emotion, and characters you genuinely root for. By the end, I was ready to roll the dice on whatever Kayla Martin writes next.
Okay, let’s just get this out of the way: this book rolled me right over. 🥹 This was my second Kayla Martin read and honestly? She did it again. I laughed, I swooned, and yes—I actually cried real tears. Like, ugly-sob-in-bed cried. (Kayla, why are you like this?? 😭)
Maeve and Connor’s dynamic? Chef’s kiss. The bubbly sorority girl vs. the shy gamer boy gave me all the banter, all the sass, and all the heart. Their fake dating arrangement had me grinning like an idiot, but the emotional punch near the end hit harder than I expected. One moment I’m laughing at their snarky exchanges, the next I’m clutching my chest whispering, “not me crying over a fake dating romcom…”
And ohhh the spice. 🌶️ Let’s just say, this “cute” college romance definitely had some unexpected heat. My Kindle may or may not still be blushing.
What I loved most, though, was the balance—lighthearted laughs, heartfelt emotion, and characters you genuinely root for. By the end, I was ready to roll the dice on whatever Kayla Martin writes next.
September 5, 2025
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
I wanna start this one by thanking Kayla for this ARC, it was truly amazing!
This book was sweet, funny, and downright wholesome. The kind of college romance that had me grinning like an idiot most of the time. I’m an absolute sucker for fake dating, and Kayla Martin delivered the trope with all the charm, banter, and deliciously slow burn tension I could ever want. Watching Maeve and Connor go from “ugh, you’re kind of annoying” to “oops, I literally cannot stop thinking about you” was chef’s kiss.
What really sold me, though, was how genuine their chemistry felt. Sure, it was sizzling (trust me, you’ll feel the heat), but it was also layered with vulnerability and authenticity. Connor’s overthinking? Painfully relatable. Maeve’s anxiety? Same, girl, same. Kayla doesn’t just make you fall for her couples, she makes you see yourself in them. And let’s not forget, her representation game is on point. The diversity and the way real personal struggles were woven in? Natural, refreshing, and one of the story’s biggest strengths.
Bottom line: this romance will warm your heart, make you swoon, and leave you wanting to hug the book when you’re done.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
I wanna start this one by thanking Kayla for this ARC, it was truly amazing!
This book was sweet, funny, and downright wholesome. The kind of college romance that had me grinning like an idiot most of the time. I’m an absolute sucker for fake dating, and Kayla Martin delivered the trope with all the charm, banter, and deliciously slow burn tension I could ever want. Watching Maeve and Connor go from “ugh, you’re kind of annoying” to “oops, I literally cannot stop thinking about you” was chef’s kiss.
What really sold me, though, was how genuine their chemistry felt. Sure, it was sizzling (trust me, you’ll feel the heat), but it was also layered with vulnerability and authenticity. Connor’s overthinking? Painfully relatable. Maeve’s anxiety? Same, girl, same. Kayla doesn’t just make you fall for her couples, she makes you see yourself in them. And let’s not forget, her representation game is on point. The diversity and the way real personal struggles were woven in? Natural, refreshing, and one of the story’s biggest strengths.
Bottom line: this romance will warm your heart, make you swoon, and leave you wanting to hug the book when you’re done.
October 16, 2025
I really enjoyed reading Roll of the Dice! While college romances aren't usually my jam, I loved getting to know more of the Murphy Family and their amazing interconnectedness. But also how close his much smaller family was - showing that not only big families are warm and loving. I also enjoyed the juxtaposition of the gamer rep with the hardcore, overly pink sorority girl lifestyle. I loved the constant meddling of family and friends on both sides. It's definitely a fun read (weird to say when it deals with the heavy topic of parental death) and one I'd recommend to anyone looking for a feel good romance that isn't just about the fluff and fun.
What to Expect: enemies to lovers, fake dating, opposites attract, meddling cousins, family wedding, only one bed, care taking, college romance, gamer boy x sorority girl, she's his tutor... queer rep (demi and bi).
TW/CW: unexpected death of a parent
Thank you to Kayla Marting for the eARC to Roll of the Dice! (Sorry I'm only getting to writing my review a little over a month after pub-day.)
What to Expect: enemies to lovers, fake dating, opposites attract, meddling cousins, family wedding, only one bed, care taking, college romance, gamer boy x sorority girl, she's his tutor... queer rep (demi and bi).
TW/CW: unexpected death of a parent
Thank you to Kayla Marting for the eARC to Roll of the Dice! (Sorry I'm only getting to writing my review a little over a month after pub-day.)
August 26, 2025
I received an eARC of this book (Thank You, Kayla Martin), and here are my honest thoughts!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are going to smile throughout this delightful and incredibly entertaining college romance. 😉
The transformation of Maeve and Connor from mild annoyance to undeniable chemistry is super charming and sweet, and the fake-dating trope is executed so well. Kayla did a fantastic job on representation, a genuinely endearing cast of characters, and a beautifully written story that feels inclusive and natural. ❣️
Connor's learning disability storyline is handled with such care, and he is a complete sweetheart. Anyone who enjoys a good slow burn will love this feel-good, wholesome, and deliciously spicy book. 😙
Releasing on 5th September, Roll of the Dice has tropes as follows:
💝Fake Dating
💝Opposites Attract
💝Enemies to Lovers
💝College Romance
💝Only One Bed
💝Queer Rep
💝Board Games
💝& much more!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are going to smile throughout this delightful and incredibly entertaining college romance. 😉
The transformation of Maeve and Connor from mild annoyance to undeniable chemistry is super charming and sweet, and the fake-dating trope is executed so well. Kayla did a fantastic job on representation, a genuinely endearing cast of characters, and a beautifully written story that feels inclusive and natural. ❣️
Connor's learning disability storyline is handled with such care, and he is a complete sweetheart. Anyone who enjoys a good slow burn will love this feel-good, wholesome, and deliciously spicy book. 😙
Releasing on 5th September, Roll of the Dice has tropes as follows:
💝Fake Dating
💝Opposites Attract
💝Enemies to Lovers
💝College Romance
💝Only One Bed
💝Queer Rep
💝Board Games
💝& much more!
August 28, 2025
Maeve and Connor, an unlikely yet perfect duo. When they end up at the same college, neither seem thrilled. They know each other from when her family vacations where he works as a lifeguard in the summer. When Connor proposes an idea for him to be her wedding date in exchange for tutoring she reluctantly agrees. As they spend more time together, their bond strengthens. Even when unexpected tragedy strikes, Maeve is right by Connor’s side. They really stepped up and supported each other in times of need.
I loved watching these two grow and develop a relationship. I’m a sucker for a preppy girl and nerdy guy. Also the board game scene 🥵. Kayla sure knows what she’s doing! Thank you for this ARC!
Tropes:
📚 College Romance
💕 Enemies to Lovers
♟️ Gamer and Sorority Girl
🔥 Open Door Spice
🏳️🌈 Queer Rep
👫🏼 Dual POV
Coming September 5, 2025
I loved watching these two grow and develop a relationship. I’m a sucker for a preppy girl and nerdy guy. Also the board game scene 🥵. Kayla sure knows what she’s doing! Thank you for this ARC!
Tropes:
📚 College Romance
💕 Enemies to Lovers
♟️ Gamer and Sorority Girl
🔥 Open Door Spice
🏳️🌈 Queer Rep
👫🏼 Dual POV
Coming September 5, 2025
September 11, 2025
this book was genuinely phenomenal. i was lucky enough to get an arc for the first book in the murphy family series, and i loved it. this book was no different! maeve and connor are so perfect in every way, and i'm obsessed with their little character quirks that make them work so well. the plot was amazing, the writing was incredible as usual, and it was so fun to get back into the world of the murphy family. i absolutely eat any of kayla's books UP and i'm very grateful for this arc, because roll of the dice was one of my favorite reads of 2025. i can't wait to be back in this series hopefully soon!!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5
˚₊‧꒰ა ✿ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚
tropes:
✿ || fake dating
✿ || opposites attract
✿ || enemies to lovers
✿ || queer rep
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5
˚₊‧꒰ა ✿ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚
tropes:
✿ || fake dating
✿ || opposites attract
✿ || enemies to lovers
✿ || queer rep
August 30, 2025
Roll of the Dice by @kayla.martin.author
•
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•
Y’all know how much I LOVED Kayla’s first book A Thousand Sunsets, so when my ARC of Murphy Family Book 2 came into my inbox I knew I needed to read it ASAP.
•
No surprise that I AM OBSESSED!!!!!!!
•
Enemies to lovers & fake dating 🥰🥰🥰🥰
•
Kayla has a way of writing characters that everyone can relate to. I found qualities of myself and my friends in Maeve and Connor and it made it so cozy.
•
These also aren’t your typical cutesy rom-coms. Don’t get me wrong I was kicking my feet and giggling through most of it, but we also have very deep plot lines and some STEAMY situations!!!
•
If Kayla writes it, I’m going to read it.
•
Roll of the Dice will be out on September 5th and that gives you time to jump into the Murphy-verse and read A Thousand Sunsets first! You definitely don’t NEED to read these in order, but we did get to say “Hi!” to our friends, Sid and Zach , throughout the second book.
•
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
•
Y’all know how much I LOVED Kayla’s first book A Thousand Sunsets, so when my ARC of Murphy Family Book 2 came into my inbox I knew I needed to read it ASAP.
•
No surprise that I AM OBSESSED!!!!!!!
•
Enemies to lovers & fake dating 🥰🥰🥰🥰
•
Kayla has a way of writing characters that everyone can relate to. I found qualities of myself and my friends in Maeve and Connor and it made it so cozy.
•
These also aren’t your typical cutesy rom-coms. Don’t get me wrong I was kicking my feet and giggling through most of it, but we also have very deep plot lines and some STEAMY situations!!!
•
If Kayla writes it, I’m going to read it.
•
Roll of the Dice will be out on September 5th and that gives you time to jump into the Murphy-verse and read A Thousand Sunsets first! You definitely don’t NEED to read these in order, but we did get to say “Hi!” to our friends, Sid and Zach , throughout the second book.
September 5, 2025
🎲 Roll of the Dice by Kayla Martin 🎲
The way this book made me feel! ♥️
I laughed. I sobbed. I was back in university again.
Gosh, it was so good!
Maeve and Connor are annual summer vacation arch-nemeses who find themselves in the same place at the same time as they head back to school for the year. Maeve needs a boyfriend to convince her mother to chill with the terrible set ups, and Connor needs a tutor! The rest is an emotional, beautifully crafted book!
@kayla.martin.author has the most beautiful way of writing all the subtle parts of falling for someone, the collection of moments that lead to the epic feelings. These moments are realistic, absolute perfection, and what makes Kayla’s books so special!
What you’ll find:
🎲 Bi FMC & Demi MMC
🎲Fake Dating
🎲 Board Games
🎲 Consent 🙌🏻
🎲 The Murphy Family (large supportive family)
Thanks to the author for the #ARC! Roll of the Dice is out September 5 (you can pre-order on Amazon now) and I hope you love this one, and the Murphy family as much as I do!
The way this book made me feel! ♥️
I laughed. I sobbed. I was back in university again.
Gosh, it was so good!
Maeve and Connor are annual summer vacation arch-nemeses who find themselves in the same place at the same time as they head back to school for the year. Maeve needs a boyfriend to convince her mother to chill with the terrible set ups, and Connor needs a tutor! The rest is an emotional, beautifully crafted book!
@kayla.martin.author has the most beautiful way of writing all the subtle parts of falling for someone, the collection of moments that lead to the epic feelings. These moments are realistic, absolute perfection, and what makes Kayla’s books so special!
What you’ll find:
🎲 Bi FMC & Demi MMC
🎲Fake Dating
🎲 Board Games
🎲 Consent 🙌🏻
🎲 The Murphy Family (large supportive family)
Thanks to the author for the #ARC! Roll of the Dice is out September 5 (you can pre-order on Amazon now) and I hope you love this one, and the Murphy family as much as I do!
August 26, 2025
I was nervous going into this book, because I am so far removed from college age that I was worried I would not connect with the characters. I was completely wrong. I really liked Maeve's sour patch kid personality- sour and then sweet. Conner was the perfect mix of reserved and sweet with a sprinkling of attitude. The cast of characters was easy to follow and keep straight. I enjoyed a peek into what the Murphy family has been up to and I am excited for the next installment of this series.
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