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Lakeview Harbor #1

#Resort Love

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Lakeview Harbor

He’s the reason she’ll never accomplish her biggest goal.
If only he wasn’t also pure temptation and impossible to resist.
Walker Bradshaw has a vision for the Lakeview Harbor Resort – bring his grandparents’ old property back to life and make it bigger, better and more luxurious than ever before, all with the help of his best friends. He just needs one night for himself before diving headfirst into the project. A chance encounter with a beautiful stranger that leads to a night of pure bliss is just what he wanted. Only he’s surprised to discover the beautiful stranger who disappeared before the sun came up is none other than the pushy real estate agent who’s been trying to get his grandparents to sell the resort for years.
Harlow St. James is nothing if not a passionate person – just asked her about the wild night of passion she spent with a handsome stranger. And when it comes to her career that passion is matched only by her determination. When she learns there might be a new owner at the Lakeview Harbor Resort, she’s ready to march up there and convince them to finally let her list and sell the resort. But those plans all go sideways when she discovers the new owner is none other than her one-night stand.
There’s no way Walker is selling the resort and there’s no way Harlow is going to let him turn the rustic lake resort into a luxurious retreat. One argument leads to another until their explosive chemistry makes them fall into bed together again. And again. Agree to disagree becomes their motto, but when the tables turn and Harlow becomes the obstacle standing in Walker’s way, he has to wonder if she’s been planning her payback all along.

329 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 9, 2025

77 people are currently reading
113 people want to read

About the author

Samantha Chase

143 books2,356 followers
Samantha Chase is a New York Times and USA Today bestseller of contemporary romance that’s hotter than sweet, sweeter than hot. She released her debut novel in 2011 and currently has more than seventy titles under her belt – including THE CHRISTMAS COTTAGE which was a Hallmark Christmas movie in 2017! She’s a Disney enthusiast who still happily listens to 80’s rock. When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading romances, playing way too many games of Solitaire on Facebook, wearing a tiara while playing with her sassy pug Maylene…oh, and spending time with her husband of 30 years and their two sons in Wake Forest, North Carolina.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
Profile Image for LeAnn Millward.
292 reviews29 followers
September 17, 2025
*Review copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

Picture this - you meet an amazing guy, spend a perfect night together, then find out he's taking over the resort you've been trying to sell your whole realtor career. That's what happened to Harlow St. James.

This was a really enjoyable story. I loved the dynamic between Harlow and Walker. Do I think this should be classified as enemies to lovers though? Not really - but I'm sure some will. There wasn't enough conflict for me and I do feel like there was still a lot of instalove happening throughout the book.

All in all, it was a cute story and I actually look forward to checking out the friend's books when it comes that time. I loved Walker's friend group and can't wait to see what else they do with the resort.

Thank you to NetGalley, Samantha Chase, and Dreamscape Media for allowing me to listen and review!
Profile Image for Jasmine.
586 reviews879 followers
September 19, 2025
After devouring Karma's a Beach in one sitting, I was really eager to read Samantha's latest release. Sadly, #Resort Love wasn't my cup of tea. Despite the fact that the synopsis sounded wonderful and it was also pretty cool to see an actual hashtag as part of the book title, the story itself simply lacked the romantic elements I valued.

First of all, there was instalove...which honestly was one of my least favorite tropes and if I'd known it would be featured, I very likely wouldn't sign up to review this one. :/ Then there was some miscommunication between the protagonists, Walker and Harlow. I knew they were on the opposite sides of the main dispute--to sell or not to sell the resort--but since they were all grown-ups, I kind of expected they'd have better communicating and problem-solving skill. Don't get me wrong, the chemistry and angst between them was still pretty good, but I would appreciate more if there were some depth and layers in the entire story.

That being said, just because this book wasn't for me didn't mean it wouldn't be your next favorite read. So if you were new to Samantha or wanted to have something light-hearted to enjoy, please still consider giving #Resort Love and this series a chance!

***Thanks to the Author Agency and the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
Profile Image for Shawn-Joy Martin.
1,026 reviews16 followers
September 4, 2025
I love Samantha Chase.

How are all these reviews out there going on about how horrible Walker was and how Harlow deserved better?! She was a whiney brat through the entire book. I feel like there is NO WAY we read the same book. There is NO WAY these people actually read this book.

Harlow is f*cking annoying - No means no.

Also, Harlow, you wanted them to sell the property to someone new. Someone new who was going to pay MILLIONS of dollars. WTF did she think someone who was spending that much money was going to do with it? Keep it a campground and rent cheap cabins? Are you delusional?

I just hated her freaking attitude. I hated how if roles were reversed and Harlow were a man we would be ready to burn this book to the ground.

Was Walker's plan for the resort perfect? No, it absolutely was not but Harlow would have had me leaving that land to rot until the end of time.

How TF is it fair for her to sell the properties because that's "her job" and he shouldn't feel like she shouldn't do her job. Then she makes him promise not to try and buy the only bit of property left?

JFC - How the hell was he supposed to know about your life before him when you NEVER TOLD HIM. You only held EVERY SINGLE TIME he dared to disagree with you against him.

Glad it worked out for them.
Profile Image for Jenn .
751 reviews15 followers
September 6, 2025
#Resort Love is the first full book in the Lakeview Harbor series by Samantha Chase. There is a "prequel" story- #Resort Romance, but that story is not necessary to read before this book, as it's about a different couple and while the set up of the resort revitalization idea starts there it is recapped in this book so you don't exactly miss anything other than a romance between two of the friends in this group.

I really liked the idea of this book- two strangers meet and the sparks fly. There is this connection that neither Harlow or Walker have experienced before and while they go into things with an understanding that it's just for the night, they can't seem to shake the feeling that they walked away from something special. Fast forward and Harlow and Walker meet again but not in the best circumstances as Harlow is named the pushy real estate agent that is "harassing" Walker's grandmother into selling the resort property that Walker is in town to bring life back to.

Sparks are flying all over the place in this book. Sparks of attraction, sparks of animosity, sparks of irritation and sparks of desire all over again.

Overall I enjoyed the story but at the same time I find myself a little indifferent towards the MCs. Walker is a bit too snobby and posh for the rustic resort that he grew up going to- and it kind of shows in his character. He's a bit of a hot head and is quick to unleash his anger without pausing to understand or get all the context or facts. It's like he has this inherent superiority and quick pull on his accusations- something that pops up over and over-which felt like his character never really learns from his previous mistakes. Then there was Harlow. She is passionate, isn't afraid to work hard or get her hands dirty. She is sweet but her fiery side comes out to play a few times to really check Walker which I loved. While I adored her passion and drive- she was also a little unhinged at times when it first came to the idea of selling the property or accepting Walker's vision for the resort and while I applauded her for standing up and not taking Walker's arrogance as he came at her multiple times with half information- I also felt like she also was just so quick to go back each time even though he hurt her worse and worse each go around.

There's still a lot of potential with this series with the rest of Walker's friends and co-owners that I'm hopeful this series will just grow better with each book.
Profile Image for Lyndi (mibookobsession).
1,570 reviews50 followers
September 16, 2025
Harlow St James grew up the daughter of a criminal and the town drunk. She has dreams of getting out of this small town and finally traveling and living somewhere else. And the Lakeview Harbor Resort is the key to her dreams; if only she could get the stubborn owners to sell, she could make a huge commission. After years of trying to convince them, she learns the property has a new owner and hopes to convince him. But she's shocked to discover that her one night stand that was supposedly just passing through town is not only the owner's grandson, Walker Bradshaw, but that he's even more adamant against selling. And his plans for luxury glamping aren't even close to what this town needs.
So both of these characters are stubborn and argumentative, but I could see Walker's side as the actual owner of the property. Harlow just came off pushy, rude, and angry that she didn't get her way. She even says that Walker is the one to kill her dreams, as if she's entitled to anything in the first place. I honestly disliked her character for the majority of the story! She redeemed herself a bit in the end and got the grovel and HEA she deserved. I'm interested to see where this series is going with a few of the characters introduced in this book.
I listened to an audiobook version of this book and really enjoyed the narrator's voice and her portrayal of the character's voices. Her voice and intonations made it easy to follow along.
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Tiffani.
305 reviews3 followers
September 25, 2025
Spice level:🌶️🌶️

Harlow is a real estate agent desperate to sell the Lakeview Harbor Resort in order to help the Harbortown community.
Noah takes 6 months off work to go to small Harbortown to renovate his family’s resort, Lakeview Harbor Resort.
Harlow and Noah meet outside a Pub during the Tulips and Toboggan festival. They end up spending the day walking the festival and falling into bed with each other.
After Noah’s grandma warns him of the overbearing real estate agent, who had been badgering them to sell the resort, he discovers that she is the same wonderful woman he spent the day and night with.
There is a lot of back and forth between Noah and Harlow, from desire and passion to frustration and anger. Will they ever figure out how to make their relationship work and trust each other?
The 3rd act break up was a little predictable, but the reuniting was soo good it made me tear up! I only have 1 complaint about this book….I wanted a longer Epilogue, with more of Noah and Harlow’s story! But I’m sure we will get more in the rest of the series!
The way Samantha Chase leads up to a spicy scene, but then fades to black is magic! It doesn’t leave the reader feeling like something is missing, and it’s just enough spice to want more, but still be satisfied!

I can’t wait to read more from this series and see who ends up with who from the rest of the crew renovating the resort!
Profile Image for Marylovesreading.
1,495 reviews
September 4, 2025

**Review of *#Resort Love* by Samantha Chase**
**Narrated by Rebecca Gibel**
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Story: 2.5, rounded up | Narration: 4⭐️)

Unfortunately, this story just didn’t pull me in. From the start, I struggled to connect with either of the main characters, Harlow and Walker. While there was immediate physical chemistry between them, that’s really all there seemed to be.

Walker returns to town to renovate his grandparents’ camp resort— a place full of fond childhood memories. Meanwhile, Harlow has been trying for years to buy the property from his grandparents, hoping to turn it into her own project. The two are at odds from the beginning, and while this sets up the potential for an engaging enemies-to-lovers arc, the development just wasn’t there. Their relationship progression felt rushed and unconvincing, and I found it hard to believe in their happily-ever-after.

The characters themselves lacked depth, and I wish there had been more time spent building emotional connection and backstory.

The narration by Rebecca Gibel was solid and one of the stronger aspects of the audiobook. She brought energy and clarity to the story, even if the material itself didn’t quite deliver.

**Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
1,476 reviews6 followers
September 9, 2025
Cute story, but annoying characters.

This is my first Samantha Chase book and while I enjoyed the story, I enjoyed neither Walker nor Harlow. Their meet cute set a positive tone, but then they become rivals to a degree as Harlow wants to sell the resort that Walker's family owns and hopes to restore.

Walker was quite the jack o'lantern towards Harlow not once, not twice, BUT THREE TIMES!! Harlow for her part was way too pushy and tries to verbally sabotage him to a degree.

These two do work things out, but you gotta wonder if this is truly a good pairing or not. I did enjoy Walker's friends, especially Axel. I'm sure he will redeem the vibe with his story.

The story was still entertaining, but I would have liked characters with more redeeming qualities.

I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.

Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.1k reviews258 followers
September 9, 2025
This is the first in a new series, and this is Walker and Harlow’s story.
Walker has a vision about bringing his grandparents old property back to life, and when he has a 1-night stands with a woman who disappears before he wakes up, he finds out that the pushy real estate agent, is Harlow, who is trying to convince him to sell.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family drama, friendships, emotions, tension, enemies / lovers, opposites attract, challenges, combustible chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
97 reviews3 followers
September 26, 2025
Welcome to the Lakeview Harbor Resort and Harbortown. #Resort Love is the first book in the Lakeview Harbor series, and it did not disappoint! A perfect enemies-to-lovers story between Harlow, a local realtor, and Walker, the resort owners’ grandson. Add in a one night stand, friendships, career aspirations, and family secrets, and you have makings for a small town recipe for disaster. Along with Walker’s friends - first introduced in #Resort Romance - Swati, Harlow’s colleague and friend, makes several appearances in the book. With several twists and turns, this was the a great summer read. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
Profile Image for Brandi.
120 reviews5 followers
October 5, 2025
I love enemies to lovers and this one definitely delivered!

The main chapters had great chemistry and banter. Story was interesting and flowed well. From start to finish there was never a lull which sometimes can happen half way through. This is the book where you root for the main chapters to be together even though everything is stacked against them.

I thoroughly enjoyed this read and will be looking out for the author’s other books after this. It was well written and narrators for the audio were great.
1,505 reviews21 followers
September 4, 2025
Walker is on a mission to give his grandparents' small town resort an overdo. With grand plans, he knows it is just what the town needs to bring in more business. Real estate agent Harlow has other views and tries her best to let Walker know what she believes would work better. With so much tension between the two, you can already see where this is going right? I loved the storyline and characters. I always enjoy this author's books as they are so easy to get lost in and this one was no different. I'm excited this will be a whole series as I can't wait to read more!
Profile Image for FictionalFlings.
308 reviews9 followers
September 27, 2025
Second Book in the series and I love it.
Lakeview Harbor Resort was a place this group of friends grew up spending Summers. Now the Resort is closed and falling into disrepair. These childhood friends are going into business together and attempting to revive the Resort. When the arriving town the drama begins to unfold. Can they work together and save the Resort? Can Walker stay focused and make his Grandmother proud? Can Harlow keep Walker from ruining the family atmosphere his Grandparents worked so hart to build?
This series is becoming my favorite.
Profile Image for Danielle.
926 reviews28 followers
September 28, 2025
Walker’s grandparents used to own Lakeview Harbor Resort, but it became too much to them so they let it go. Walker and his friends spent a lot of time at the resort growing up, so they decided to redo it.

Harlow lives in Lakeview, and is a realtor who has been trying to get Walker’s grandparents to sell the property.

When the two meet and don’t know who the other is, sparks fly.

I loved the growth of both main characters, and cannot wait for the next book in the series.
760 reviews20 followers
September 8, 2025
Samantha Chase has done it again! I absolutely loved #Resort Love, the first book in her new Lakeview Harbor series! #Resort Love is an incredible love story, which filled me with a rollercoaster of emotions, I was hooked from the first few pages, and it was impossible to put it down. #Resort Love had my interest from the start, and I fell in love. I loved every moment on every page. Samantha Chase continues to deliver the incredibly written love stories that I LOVE to read and is a must-read author for me. I love enemies to lovers love story, the Harbortown setting, and the amazing characters, they feel like family! Samantha Chase does not disappoint her readers with all the feels in #Resort Love and has once again delivered an amazing story filled with everything that I have come to love about and expect from her books. Who does not love hot sexy men, strong, passionate females, big loving families, and caring friends, who always support each other? #Resort Love is a love story between Harlow St. James, real estate agent and Walker Bradshaw, manages a major luxury resort chain. Walker is in town for a six months to turn the Lakeview Harbor resort into a luxury resort with a groups of his childhood friends. Harlow has been trying to convince Walker’s grandparents, Peggy and Dale, to sell their Lakeview Harbor Resort to no avail. Harlow had dreams of travelling with the commission she would make. Harlow and her friends head to the annual Tulips and Toboggans festival. Walker and Harlow eat dinner at the Harbor Pub after her friends choose to eat at food trucks. Things quickly heat up and Harlow spends the night with Walker in his hotel room and sneaks out the following morning. Harper unknowingly follows Walker from his hotel to the resort, but he pulls over when he realizes she is following him. Walker’s grandmother, Peggy, warns him about Harlow. Harlow and Walker quickly become enemies over the property. Walker makes some initial improvements to the property. As Harlow and Walker spend time together, things slowly change between them. Conversation between Harlow and Walker flow easily. I love the text streams between Harlow and her friends and her coworkers, and Walker’s with his friends. I love the chemistry between them. I love the heart-to-heart conversations that take place in #Resort Love, especially when Harlow shares the secrets of her childhood and her parents with Walker. I love the changes that Walker and Harlow are willing to make to have a life together, and how Harlow helps Walker search for a property adjacent to the resort to build a camping site in the future to make his dreams come true, since he agreed with Harlow and his friends to make the necessary renovations to the existing resort concept. To help Harlow understand his vision, Walker arranges a camping trip for them, and I loved it. An unexpected plot twist puts their relationship in jeopardy. I was so happy that Walker and Harlow finally admitted their true feelings for one another, and they changes that they make to have a life together. My favorite part is the epilogue is the perfect ending of their love story and all the surprises that are revealed. I love all the changes that Walker and Harlow make in their lives to have a future with one another. #Resort Love was an amazing love story; I am so glad that Walker and Harlow got the happily ever after. I loved all the surprises that filled the pages of this love story. I love how Samantha Chase always manages to create the "perfect" heroine, who is a strong, sassy woman on her own, to balance out the sexy, swoon worthy man. Samantha Chase continues to deliver all that and so much more. I am not sure how she does it, but Samantha Chase has once again given her readers another remarkable book. #Resort Love is filled with all the heartbreaking and heartwarming moments, plot twists, and surprises that I have come to love and expect in a Samantha Chase love story, I especially loved the poignant and bittersweet moments that filled this page turner. I love that she writes her stories from the perspective of the main characters. I love getting inside their minds and knowing their thoughts and how they really feel. I love being introduced to all the characters in this series. I loved catching up with Kelsey and Jayce. It felt like a family reunion, I enjoy all the interactions among their friends, it feels like family love and makes me laugh at their teasing. I love the descriptions of the Harbortown and the Lakeview Harbor resort in #Resort Love. Who does not love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? I cannot wait to read the other books in the series. Highly recommend this beautifully written love story. Received an advanced copy from the author. 
935 reviews
September 8, 2025
Lakeview Harbor Resort, located in the small town of Harbortown, is a huge rustic summer resort that has recently been shut down. Unfortunately, Walker Bradshaw’s grandparents, who have owned the resort for years, came to realize that the place is too difficult to keep clean, update, and repair when needed.

Walker decides that he wants to reopen the resort. Therefore, he contacts a group of his summer friends who all agree to help him finance his project. They also decide to use their own skills to imagine and create original ideas that will help him update and successfully reopen the resort.

Harlow St. James has lived in Harbortown her whole life and is a well-known realtor in town. Sadly, she grew up in an awful family where no one cared about. At 16 she was taken in by a local realtor who looked out for her, took care of her, and taught her everything she knows about life and real estate.

Harlow knows that the townspeople have had to close their own businesses and that the town is dying. She wants to reopen the resort and everything and bring life back into the town. Thus, she tries to find someone to buy the hotel and update it. She has no idea that a group of people have already bought it and are already planning to update it.

Walker and Harlow unexpectedly meet at a restaurant, and decide to eat together. When they realize they have a very strong and unique attraction for each other, they choose to spend a steamy, unusually wonderful night together, that they cannot forget.

Soon after, they both discover that they have matching plans. However, painfully, they realize that they have totally different ideas for the restoration of the resort. Harlow wants to return to the original structure and layout of the family summer resort. She feels this will rejuvenate both the resort and the town. However, Walker currently works for different luxury hotels around the world, and he hopes to change Lakeview Harbor into another luxurious retreat. He believes that his idea will change the town into a successful, booming tourist attraction.

Woefully, the relationship between Walker and Harlow is volatile and unpredictable, but there is no doubt that it is also very steamy, passionate and intense. Plus, their relationship is constantly side-tracked by many peripheral characters who often interfere and meddle into the couple’s private business.

The puzzling question in this story: how does the author manage to unravel all of the difficult and tangled situations?

Profile Image for Nikki B..
826 reviews17 followers
September 7, 2025
#Resort Love is book 1 in the Lakeview Harbor series.
Walker's grandparents are the owners of the Lakeview Harbor Resort. They've owned the property for a long time and refuse to sell. Walker believes he can bring this place back to life along with his group of friends. He heads to the town the resort is located in and just needs one night to unwind before jumping into this massive project. This one night, is how he meets Harlow. They have a connection right away and after having dinner, they both realize they don't really want the night to end there. She ends up going back to his hotel room with him where they spend the night together. But when he calls his grandparents the next day to touch base with them, they warn him to stay away from Harlow St. James. According to his grandparents, Harlow is a very pushy, persistent real estate agent who has been after them to sell for years. She's called them up with multiple offers, all of which they turn down. Now Walker is left wondering if she knew who he was all along and planned their meet up?
Harlow, however is finding it extremely difficult to make this sale because of her attraction to Walker. But she's adamant that she isn't going to allow him to turn Lakeview Harbor into a retreat. He's determined not to sell and together this back and forth argument between them lead to some intense attraction. Attraction that pulls them towards each other. Attraction that has them falling into bed, again.
The characters have great chemistry together. The banter between them is fun. Harlow's childhood had been a difficult one and she's always felt like she's had something to prove to people. Her character is strong. She doesn't like to back down. She seems to enjoy challenges. Walker's character did sometimes rub me the wrong way. He came across as a spoiled rich kid sometimes. He rushed his decisions and doesn't take the input of others into consideration. He came across as very judgy and arrogant. And then strong personality of his only grows when grandma becomes involved.
Overall, the book is great. I enjoyed the plot. Even though I wasn't a huge fan of of the MMC in this one, I think the series has a lot of potential. I can't wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,273 reviews207 followers
September 10, 2025
#RESORT LOVE is the first instalment in Samantha Chase’s contemporary, adult LAKEVIEW HARBOR romance series focusing on a group of friends who own and work Lakeview Harbor Resort. This is Walker Bradshaw, and real estate agent Harlow St. James’ story line.


Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Walker and Harlow) #RESORT LOVE follows in the wake of the return of Walker Bradshaw to Lakeview Harbor, and the family owned Lakeview Harbor Inn, which has sat in disrepair for several years. Along with his friends Axel, Connor, Milo, Slater, Jayce, and Kelsey, Walker Bradshaw has reinvested in his grandparents Lakeview Harbor Resort, in the hopes of reestablishing to its’ former glory but Walker has bigger plans for the property. Meanwhile, local realtor Harlow St. James is hoping to find a buyer for the apparently abandoned property but the owners refuse to budge, and Harlow is completely unaware of the owner’s plans for the future. A one-night stand ends with our couple discovering the truth about one another, and in the ensuing weeks, miscommunication and misunderstanding lead to the fall-out of their growing love.


The world building follows in the wake of the arrival of Walker and his investor friends, as they begins repairs and renovations of the Lakeview Harbor Resort but not everyone is happy with the direction of the rebuild, and the intentions of Walker Bradshaw, and in this, our hero become persona non grata to our story line heroine.


The relationship between Walker and Harlow begins as a one-night stand that quickly begins to spiral in the face of secrets revealed but Walker is hoping to for something more until a perceived betrayal threatens any future between our story line couple. There are no $ex scenes, everything is implied.

We are introduced to Harlow’s boss Charlene; Walker’s grandmother Peggy Bradshaw, as well as Walkers’ friends aka investors: Axel, Connor, Mil, Slater, Jayce and Kelsey.

#RESORT LOVE is a story of family and friendships, secrets and perceived betrayal, relationships and love. The character driven premise is captivating; the romance is seductive; the characters are desperate and dynamic.

copy supplied for review
Profile Image for Rebecca.
903 reviews26 followers
September 7, 2025
In Samantha Chase's captivating new novel, Resort Love, Walker Bradshaw returns to Lakeview Harbor with a grand vision: to restore his grandparents' resort and transform it into a luxurious destination. He and his best friends are ready to dive into the project, but first, Walker decides to have one night to himself. He has a chance encounter with a beautiful stranger, leading to a night of pure bliss. To his surprise, the woman who disappeared before sunrise is none other than Harlow St. James, the ambitious real estate agent who has been trying to convince his grandparents to sell the resort for years.

Harlow is a passionate and determined person, and her career goals hinge on selling the Lakeview Harbor Resort. Her plans are thrown into chaos when she discovers the new owner is her one-night stand. Their first meeting is a clash of wills—Walker won't sell, and Harlow is determined to stop him from turning the rustic resort into a luxurious retreat. But their undeniable chemistry is explosive, pulling them into bed again and again.

As they navigate their complicated relationship, Walker and Harlow must confront their own assumptions and the meddling of Walker's family. With a tough upbringing, Harlow has always been judged for her past, and when Walker seems to do the same, she wonders if she'll ever be able to trust him. Meanwhile, Walker must decide if he can move past his grandmother's warnings and see Harlow for who she truly is.

This is an amazing start to a new series. Walker and Harlow's tumultuous romance will keep you hooked from the first page. This story is filled with secrets, suspense, and incredible chemistry. The compelling plot and well-developed characters make it impossible to put down. With unexpected twists and an emotional journey, this is a must-read for any romance lover. I can't wait to see what happens next in Lakeview Harbor!

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
342 reviews1 follower
September 8, 2025
Resort Love by Samantha Chase is an absolute gem, kicking off the Lakeview Harbor series with a story that’s as heartwarming as it is captivating! This small-town, enemies-to-lovers romance is one that is really terrific in creative storytelling, blending passion, humor, and a touch of drama into a page-turner I couldn’t put down. Samantha Chase, my favorite author, has truly outdone herself with this one!

The story follows Walker Bradshaw and Harlow St. James, whose one-night stand sparks an unforgettable journey filled with witty banter, sizzling chemistry, and heartfelt moments. The characters are nothing short of amazing—relatable, flawed, and so vividly written that they feel like people you’d love to be friends with. Walker’s determination to restore his grandparents’ Lakeview Harbor Resort, alongside his best friends, is inspiring, and the vivid descriptions of the resort’s restoration process make it a character in its own right. You can practically feel the charm of this run-down yet promising property coming back to life!

What sets this book apart is Chase’s signature ability to craft a story that’s both emotionally rich and delightfully engaging. The pacing is perfect, with just the right mix of steamy romance, small-town warmth, and the intrigue of clashing goals between Walker and Harlow. Whether you’re new to Samantha Chase’s books or a longtime fan, Resort Love shines as a standalone while laying the groundwork for an exciting series. The found family vibes and the dream of restoring the resort left me eager for more adventures at Lakeview Harbor!

If you love small-town romances with dynamic characters, a beautifully crafted setting, and a story that keeps you smiling and swooning, Resort Love is a must-read. Samantha Chase has delivered another 5-star masterpiece that’s bound to leave readers as enchanted as I am!

I want to thank the author for the ARC; I'm hoping that my review is helping many find (and enjoy) this wonderful story!
Profile Image for Ashlee.
156 reviews3 followers
September 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.5 rounded up to 4 on Goodreads)

Format: ARC | eBook (Kindle)
Genre/Tropes: Small Town Romance • Enemies to Lovers • Contemporary Romance • (a tiny hint of Second Chance 🤏🏼)


✨ Thank you so much to Samantha Chase for the ARC! I really appreciate the chance to read this early, and I’m excited to continue with the series.

I started this one in August and didn’t finish until September—at first I wasn’t sure how I felt about it. The story follows Harlow and Walker, two very different people with very different visions for a beloved small-town resort. Their dynamic had me rolling my eyes in the beginning (hello, first-night hookup with a total stranger 😂🔥), but as the story went on, the characters and their motives became more layered.

Walker definitely rubbed me the wrong way at first—condescending, self-righteous, and not someone I’d root for in real life. But as the story progressed, I began to see his perspective, and watching him soften toward Harlow was sweet. I loved that Harlow stood up for herself, especially when she was constantly being judged for her family’s past. Her resilience and determination to be seen for herself was one of my favorite parts of the book.

The family drama and land ownership twist brought some solid conflict, and I have to admit I was frustrated right alongside Harlow when she was dismissed and second-guessed. But the redemption arc for Walker—and even his grandmother—added a nice emotional punch near the end. The last half of the book was definitely stronger than the first for me.

And of course, we get glimpses of Walker’s group of friends (Axel, Connor, Milo, Slater, etc.), which sets up the series nicely. I’m already intrigued to see where their stories go—especially since the next book teases Axel’s turn.

Overall: a cute small-town romance with a dash of enemies-to-lovers tension and a sweet resolution. The first half was a little slow for me, but the ending made up for it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sharon.
1,961 reviews28 followers
August 29, 2025
What an amazing start to a new series by Samantha! Walker and Harlow will steal your heart in this one! And this is only the beginning! 5 Lakeview Stars for this one!
Walker is back in Lakeview Harbor, the place he spent summers growing up! His grandparents owned the resort, and he met his best friends there and their still great friends. Now they're all coming back, to restore the resort his grandparents let fall into disarray, but his vision for the resort is grander than what is once was. His first night in town he meets Harlow, and they hit it off, and share a hot night, but they didn't exchange numbers, and she's gone when he wakes up the next morning. But he can't get her out of his head, nor the warning his grandmother gave him about the real estate people trying to buy the property, and when he comes face to face with the one his grandma warned him about, it's Harlow, and now he wants nothing to do with her. But his heart has other plans.
Harlow didn't have the greatest upbringing, as you will see, it's been tough for her. But her boss took her under her wing at a young age, and if she can sell this resort, it will allow her to travel and do things she only ever dreamed of. But now she has to deal with Walker, who had been warned about her, but she needs to show him she's not the bad person his grandmother says she is. Their attraction is off the charts, and they can't seem to stay away from each other. But when his grandmother sticks her nose in and starts meddling, that will put these two at odds. Her whole life she's been judged because of her parents, and with Walker doing the same thing, will she ever recover from being hurt once again?
This story had me hooked from page one, and I didn't want to put it down, nor did I want it to end!
You're going to love this new series by Samantha, grab it asap!
Profile Image for kgagnon.
2,384 reviews1 follower
September 5, 2025
I am really enjoying this Lakeview Harbor series. This is the second story about a group of friends wanting to restore the Lakeview Harbor Resort where they all had many great memories from their youth. Walker Bradshaw's grandparents owned it, so he is the first to arrive to ready the cabins for the rest of the team. He meets Harlow St. James the first night he is in town, and they have instant chemistry that lead to a night of fun, and sizzling passion. The next day they find out that they both have a connection to the resort, he wants to rebuild, and she is a realtor trying to sell it. They have very different visions for the resort, leading to some heated encounters. But they can't deny the connection they have to each other as well. When the rest of the team arrives, they add more fun, and Harlow fits in with them easily. As Walker and Harlow get closer, and their hearts become invested, they start to wonder if they could have a future together. When someone plants a seed of deception, Walker and Harlow are not sure they can trust each other's intentions. Will they be strong enough to fight for each other, or will their fragile relationship be easy to walk away from, breaking both their hearts? I really cared for both Walker and Harlow, they were opposites who were so good for each other. The push/pull between them, challenging each other, made their chemistry explosive. I loved the relationship and banter between all their found family and friends that added so much fun and warmth to this story, and I can't wait for their stories as well!
Rebecca Gibel continues to narrate this series and did a great job bringing these characters and story to life. She delivered all the wit, emotion, and steam, and I was totally lost in her performance. I really enjoyed listening to this fun, engaging, emotional, and steamy romance that made my heart completely happy!
Profile Image for Donna.
1,429 reviews14 followers
September 8, 2025
Lakeview Harbor #1

Walker Bradshaw is back in Harbortown to bring back to life his grandparents resort, The Lakeview Harbor Resort, a place he spent a lot of time at as a child and where he met his best friends. So along with his best friends who have gone into the remodel with him, he's hoping to make it bigger and better than it was and to add some luxury things that weren't there before.

Harlow St. James has lived in Harbortown all her life and it hasn't always been easy. She's a real estate agent and has contacted the Bradshaw's who owned the resort to try and get them to sell for several months now but they refuse.

Walker decides to go into town for dinner and meets a stranger that he shares a night with who is gone in the morning when he wakes. That morning he's talking to his grandparents; they warn him about Harlow and how pushy she is trying to get them to sell the property and to stay away from her.

When Harlow hears there is a new owner she is determined to see them and try to get them to sell but then she finds out who the owner is and it's the guy she spent the night with, Walker. And to say he was none too happy to find out who she was. And of course he's not selling.

His big plans don't go over well with Harlow, nor what his friends want to do with the resort and he's butting heads with everyone.

Walker and Harlow have chemistry and spend time together and get close but he keeps coming up with things that set her off. She's not going to back down and she feels she is always having to prove herself especially around him.
Has he gone too far this time?

4 stars
I liked the story. I think at times Walker comes off as very pompous and knows better than anyone else. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
2,184 reviews14 followers
September 13, 2025
This is the 1st book in the Lakeview Harbor series featuring Walker and Harlow's wonderfully entertaining enemies to lovers, one-night stand, opposites attract, small-town romance. Walker's grandparents have owned the Lakeview Harbor Resort for years and they wouldn't sell it no matter how many times Harlow tried to get them to let her list it for them. Now Walker and his best-friend's have purchased the resort and Walker has a vision in his mind of what the resort can be a luxurious place. Before Walker dives into this huge project he just wants one night for himself so that he can clear his head and a chance encounter with a beautiful stranger leads to a night of passion. Only for Walker to discover that his beauty that disappeared before the sun rose is the pushy real estate agent Harlow who's been after his grandparents property for years. When Harlow learns that there could be a new owner of the Lakeview Harbor Resort she's determined to march in there persuade them to finally let her list and sell the property. Everything changes though when Harlow learns that the new owner is her one-night stand but Walker won't sell and Harlow refuses to allow the rustic charm of the resort to be changed in to a luxurious retreat. I don't want to say anymore and ruin it for anyone else with spoilers. You really need to read this wonderfully entertaining enemies to lovers, one-night stand,opposites attract, small-town romance to see what happens. I would definitely recommend reading this book because no one writes small-town romance better Samantha Chase, the characters are so relatable that you feel like you know them. I'm looking forward to the next book in this wonderful series.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,870 reviews33 followers
September 7, 2025
- Small town romance
- Revisiting the past
- Lovers to enemies to lovers
- Friend group

I love the first books in new series. They lay the groundwork for the series, introduce the characters and grab my attention. This book definitely did all of that and I am already looking forward to revisiting the Lakeview Harbor area.

The main characters in this story, real estate agent Harlow and hospitality expert/resort manager Walker both have strong opinions, which continue to present miscommunication challenges throughout the book.

The two first meet while standing in line for a restaurant and hit it off. But when they discover who the other is, sparks start flying everywhere, and not the good ones they experienced previously! You see, Harlow has been overly enthusiastic in trying to get Walker's grandparents to sell their closed resort so that the property can be used again to benefit the community. Despite the grandparents saying they weren't interested MULTIPLE times, Harlow continued to call them. A bit of a pink flag here, if I'm honest. On the other hand, Walker doesn't disclose to Harlow that he is planning on remodeling and reopening the resort, which annoys Harlow. Harlow also doesn't agree with his new business plan and is very vocal about that.

Seems like they are an unlikely pairing, yes? Except for the absolute attraction they feel toward each other. So while they try to find common ground and move forward in their relationship, there is many miscommunications that cause stumbling blocks. Lots of trust issues on each side bring the necessary tension to make this a memorable read.
Profile Image for Jessika Ross.
76 reviews
September 12, 2025
ARC review #Resort Love by @samanthachaseromance
4⭐ 2🌶️

I have already fallen in love with the new series Lakeview Harbor Resort. #Resort Romance was a short prequel to the series explaining how the storyline began regarding childhood friends at a resort that Walker's Grandparents owned. This was the 1st book of the series on Harlow and Walker and they were perfect. Their love hate relationship and all the hiccups they have overcome.

Harlow is a local realtor who is just trying to make a living but who is trying to convince Walker's grandparents to sell the property so they can retire and not worry about it and she can make a great commission and grow in her career. That was until the Tulips and Tobago fair in town where she met this guy at a local pub and they got a bite to eat together and had some fun after dinner 😉. Only to find out a few days later who he was and why he was in town. 😱

Walker and his friends invest in the resort to bring it back to the original glory and to prove to his grandparents that they can, not thinking it would be that much work....😩. When he met Harlow he thought there was nothing to worry about till he talked to his grandma the day after he arrived only to find out about Harlow St. James and she is the girl that was not to be trusted and who kept bugging his grandparents to sell.

I am so excited for book 2 to come In January and learn about Axel and Maisie!! 😍😍I also can't wait to meet Samantha Chase in Philly for the indies invade Philly author signing event!!!
Profile Image for Kylie Loves  Reading .
225 reviews1 follower
September 22, 2025
I truly enjoyed this read, great start to a new series!

Walker Bradshaw has returned to the resort his grandparent ran, determined to bring it back to life after it sitting abandoned far too long. Walker certainly has his work cut out for him, luckily, he has taken on partners in the form of his best friends who he has known since meeting at the resort kids. Arriving in town, Walker didn't expect to have one of the best nights of his life after a chance meeting, a night of pure bliss!

Harlow is determined to get Lakeview Habor up and running again, the town has suffered hit after hit, her job as a real estate agent sees her in a position to sell land worth millions, which means development, which means jobs, which means boosted economy for Lakeview. It also means commission, that could finally allow her to leave Lakeview and her crappy upbringing behind. What Harlow didn't expect was one fine night with the stranger that rocked her world, what she also didn't expect was that stranger to be the grandson of the resort owners that who she had been trying to sweet talk into selling.

Butting heads, arguments for days, their push pull towards each other leads to another explosive encounter, over and over! Both with grand plans for the resort, Harlow gives in and try's any other way for Walkers dreams to become a reality without sacrificing her own. Secrets are revealed; miscommunication and trust issues arise.

I really enjoyed this read and look forward to seeing what next in Lakeview Harbor. Thank you, Samantha and The Author Agency for the ARC, much appreciated!
Profile Image for Tiffany  Hill.
701 reviews15 followers
September 7, 2025
Great New Series!

#Resort Love is the exciting first book in the new Lakeview Harbor series! Harlow is a passionate real estate agent who’s been dreaming of selling the resort that closed its doors six months ago. If she can convince the owner to sell, it will finally give her the chance to travel and explore the world as she has always wanted. Unfortunately, her attempts with the owner haven’t gone well.

On the other hand, we have Walker, who, along with his friends, feels a strong urge to restore the resort that’s been in his family for generations. They all have fond childhood memories of visiting and want to turn it into an even more remarkable destination. When Walker and Harlow first cross paths, the spark between them is undeniable! They’re only looking for a fun night together.

Their second meeting takes a twist, though—Walker has heard about a real estate agent who’s been bothering his grandmother, and that agent turns out to be Harlow! Despite this hiccup, the chemistry between them is off the charts. As they navigate their complicated feelings, the tension and connection between them only seem to grow.

The characters are wonderfully written, and you can’t help but root for them. The story flows so smoothly that I found myself finishing it in one sitting! I’m already excited for the next book in this delightful series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rebmay.
2,817 reviews50 followers
September 8, 2025
Harlow and Walker’s story a rather tangled one, filled with some ups and some messy downs. Harlow and Walker had an instant attraction to each other and weren’t afraid to act on it. They both think their passionate interlude is a one done deal, especially when they discover who the other really is and their connection to the resort and its future. They are more alike than either would admit. They are stubborn, opinionated, sure their ideas are the right ones for the resort and town, and not happy when the other doesn’t see things their way. Yet, these two can’t seem to stay away from each other. They both enjoy the challenge, the conflict and the heat neither can deny. When his friends and co-investors show up and side with Harlow on the future of the resort, Walker is more than a little peeved and resentful until Harlow comes up with an alternative way for his ideas to be used. They are well on their way to declaring their feelings for each other when unforeseen interference from someone Walker trusts throws a wrench into the works. When the truth comes out, they have trust issues, fears and doubts to confront and a big decision to make. Is their love worth fighting for?

I truly enjoyed the battle of wills, the super hot chemistry and the connection between Harlow and Walker. I can’t wait to read more about their relationship in future books in this series and learn more about the other investors. I am happy to recommend this very engaging book.
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