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When Love Changes Everything: A Sweet Best Friend's Dad Age Gap Romance
I’m Mateo—a man with a past that could make any soap opera blush.
Chronic dater. A modern-day Casanova. The guy everyone warns you about.
And I was fine with that… until I met Lisa, my daughter’s best friend.
She’s beautiful, smart, and—off-limits. I know it. She knows it.
But one near-kiss on a hike changes everything. Turning our strong attraction into a deep connection.
When my tangled past comes crashing into my daughter’s future, everything goes up in flames. I leave, swearing to stay out of trouble for everyone’s sake.
Now I’m back to walk my daughter down the aisle, only to find Lisa impossible to resist—especially when we end up living next door.
When her father crosses the line, I step in. And to protect her, I propose the a fake engagement.
But when sparks fly and hearts collide, fake starts to feel a lot like forever.
Loving her could cost me everything.
But losing her isn’t an option—even if it means risking my daughter’s forgiveness and facing a past I’ve tried so hard to forget.
No force in this world—no resistance from those who try to split us up —will stop me from making her mine.
Chronic dater. A modern-day Casanova. The guy everyone warns you about.
And I was fine with that… until I met Lisa, my daughter’s best friend.
She’s beautiful, smart, and—off-limits. I know it. She knows it.
But one near-kiss on a hike changes everything. Turning our strong attraction into a deep connection.
When my tangled past comes crashing into my daughter’s future, everything goes up in flames. I leave, swearing to stay out of trouble for everyone’s sake.
Now I’m back to walk my daughter down the aisle, only to find Lisa impossible to resist—especially when we end up living next door.
When her father crosses the line, I step in. And to protect her, I propose the a fake engagement.
But when sparks fly and hearts collide, fake starts to feel a lot like forever.
Loving her could cost me everything.
But losing her isn’t an option—even if it means risking my daughter’s forgiveness and facing a past I’ve tried so hard to forget.
No force in this world—no resistance from those who try to split us up —will stop me from making her mine.
468 pages, Paperback
Published February 12, 2025
8 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
Mari Hernan
10 books27 followersMari has always been told she has a way with words, and she decided to put that talent to the test by penning her first book. Her stories delve into the unique journeys couples take to find their happily ever after, capturing the romance, magic and difficult challenges along the way.
Living in the US with her husband, two children, and two dogs, Mari finds joy in cooking, baking, thrift-shopping, crafting, and watercolor painting. An avid reader, she draws inspiration from her favorite authors: Mary Higgins Clark, James Patterson, and Nora Roberts.
Living in the US with her husband, two children, and two dogs, Mari finds joy in cooking, baking, thrift-shopping, crafting, and watercolor painting. An avid reader, she draws inspiration from her favorite authors: Mary Higgins Clark, James Patterson, and Nora Roberts.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
February 13, 2025
He is old enough to be her father
Her best friend (his daughter) warns her about him. And yet . . . she is SO attracted to him. And then his ex shows up - and lies and makes trouble. And her father hates him too!! AND YET . . . . this is an amazing love story that will grab you!!! I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.
Her best friend (his daughter) warns her about him. And yet . . . she is SO attracted to him. And then his ex shows up - and lies and makes trouble. And her father hates him too!! AND YET . . . . this is an amazing love story that will grab you!!! I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.
February 12, 2025
This novel is a fascinating romance filled with emotional depth, well-developed characters, and engaging storytelling.
It explores love, regret, and second chances through the dynamic between Mateo and Lisa.
Their chemistry is undeniable, and the slow-burning tension keeps readers invested as they navigate past mistakes, family complications, and their growing attraction.
One of the strongest aspects is character development.
Mateo is a flawed yet human protagonist, struggling with guilt and love, while Lisa’s inner conflict makes her very relatable.
The witty, heartfelt dialogue between them is a standout, blending humour, passion, and vulnerability.
Hernan’s writing style is immersive, with vivid descriptions that bring Cold Spring to life.
One area for improvement is reducing instances of telling rather than showing.
Although the novel depicts characters’ emotions, the narrative occasionally relies too much on exposition, hindering the natural progression of the relationships.
By letting actions and dialogue speak for themselves, the emotional impact would feel even more powerful and immersive.
The author could also streamline the backstory integration to enhance the pacing. The novel contains significant background details about Mateo’s history with Marian and Lisa’s strained relationship with her father.
While these elements add depth, they occasionally interrupt the present-day narrative with lengthy explanations. Weaving these details more naturally into conversations and character reflections would create a smoother reading experience.
Hernan could also strengthen the plot by adding unpredictability to prevent reliance on familiar romance tropes.
The “older man/younger woman” dynamic, the hesitant yet undeniable attraction, and the protagonist fighting feelings for someone deemed “off-limits” are well-executed but somewhat conventional.
Introducing unexpected twists or subverting traditional tropes would add fresh layers of intrigue and make the story even more impressive.
Refining these areas would elevate an already well-crafted story, making it even more impactful for readers who love layered, character-driven romance.
Overall, When Love Changes Everything is a rich story that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance, offering both heartache and hope in equal measure.
It explores love, regret, and second chances through the dynamic between Mateo and Lisa.
Their chemistry is undeniable, and the slow-burning tension keeps readers invested as they navigate past mistakes, family complications, and their growing attraction.
One of the strongest aspects is character development.
Mateo is a flawed yet human protagonist, struggling with guilt and love, while Lisa’s inner conflict makes her very relatable.
The witty, heartfelt dialogue between them is a standout, blending humour, passion, and vulnerability.
Hernan’s writing style is immersive, with vivid descriptions that bring Cold Spring to life.
One area for improvement is reducing instances of telling rather than showing.
Although the novel depicts characters’ emotions, the narrative occasionally relies too much on exposition, hindering the natural progression of the relationships.
By letting actions and dialogue speak for themselves, the emotional impact would feel even more powerful and immersive.
The author could also streamline the backstory integration to enhance the pacing. The novel contains significant background details about Mateo’s history with Marian and Lisa’s strained relationship with her father.
While these elements add depth, they occasionally interrupt the present-day narrative with lengthy explanations. Weaving these details more naturally into conversations and character reflections would create a smoother reading experience.
Hernan could also strengthen the plot by adding unpredictability to prevent reliance on familiar romance tropes.
The “older man/younger woman” dynamic, the hesitant yet undeniable attraction, and the protagonist fighting feelings for someone deemed “off-limits” are well-executed but somewhat conventional.
Introducing unexpected twists or subverting traditional tropes would add fresh layers of intrigue and make the story even more impressive.
Refining these areas would elevate an already well-crafted story, making it even more impactful for readers who love layered, character-driven romance.
Overall, When Love Changes Everything is a rich story that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance, offering both heartache and hope in equal measure.
February 14, 2025
Mari has created an intriguing storyline with all the tropes I enjoy: age gap, forbidden romance, and even a fake engagement. For readers who prefer closed-door romance, this one leans more toward fade-to-black, with intimacy implied rather than explicitly shown. It's also worth noting that, for Christian or clean romance readers, this book depicts intimacy outside of marriage.
I really enjoyed the chemistry between Mateo and Lisa, especially how their relationship felt a bit forbidden due to Mateo’s daughter disapproving of it. I also liked that Mateo, once a notorious bad boy, was seeking to change his ways and settle down with Lisa. These aspects were definite highlights for me.
However, I wasn’t entirely convinced by the depth of the characters’ love for each other. The focus seemed more on physical attraction and desire. Instead of emotional connection. Additionally, the age gap and the fact that Lisa was the best friend of Mateo’s daughter felt like a bit much for me personally. But that’s just my take.
For me I'd rate this: 3.5 stars, rounded to 4 stars.
While this wasn’t my favorite book in the series, I still admire Mari's writing talent and storytelling ability. I look forward to reading more from her in the future!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed the chemistry between Mateo and Lisa, especially how their relationship felt a bit forbidden due to Mateo’s daughter disapproving of it. I also liked that Mateo, once a notorious bad boy, was seeking to change his ways and settle down with Lisa. These aspects were definite highlights for me.
However, I wasn’t entirely convinced by the depth of the characters’ love for each other. The focus seemed more on physical attraction and desire. Instead of emotional connection. Additionally, the age gap and the fact that Lisa was the best friend of Mateo’s daughter felt like a bit much for me personally. But that’s just my take.
For me I'd rate this: 3.5 stars, rounded to 4 stars.
While this wasn’t my favorite book in the series, I still admire Mari's writing talent and storytelling ability. I look forward to reading more from her in the future!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2025
Mateo and Lisa fall in love despite the age difference and family disapproval. Lily is Lisa's best friend and Mateo's daughter. Mateo has a history of romancing women but never settling down. When he falls in love with Lisa, that changes but Marian, a former lover continues to lie about Mateo casting some doubt. Lisa's dad is not at all loving to her and refuses to walk her down the aisle. His true colors come out quickly. I received an advanced reader copy of this book from BookSprout and this is my honest review.
February 25, 2025
I was NOT expecting Mateo to get a book, or for his match to be Lisa! But this is a really beautiful book where the characters overcome some intense challenges, including their age gap, to find a true connection that has been growing over time.
And Marian - wow! She was a piece of work in the previous book, but she hits new levels in this one!
A truly enjoyable and heartwarming read that makes you believe in second and later-in-life chances...
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
And Marian - wow! She was a piece of work in the previous book, but she hits new levels in this one!
A truly enjoyable and heartwarming read that makes you believe in second and later-in-life chances...
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 14, 2025
I really enjoyed this story! The title of the book is just perfect! Very heartfelt and good story! I wish Lisa would have trusted Mateo more after that last call from Marian and maybe turned the tables on her or something rather than let her spoil a great day. But the romance and plot and characters were wonderful!
February 12, 2025
I read this book without reading the earlier books in the series, but it was clear which character was which, and the general outline of the series was easy to follow. The story itself was so interesting that I can't wait to read the previous books. Highly recommended!
February 20, 2025
I’m not bothered by age difference normally, but 20 years is a lot as you get older, however, Mateo is so charming, who cares about 20 years. I found this book to be romantic, funny, heart warming, with interesting characters and real issues. One character needs to be eliminated, not by the author, but by someone. Okay, maybe that is a little harsh, but I’m afraid she will never stop being a problem. What will the author have for us next time?
March 1, 2025
Age is just a number when it comes to love.
This tale is of a man Mateo , and a girl who is his daughters best friend an attract formed over the years suddenly deepened throwing leves into chaos.
Charming story would recomend.
This tale is of a man Mateo , and a girl who is his daughters best friend an attract formed over the years suddenly deepened throwing leves into chaos.
Charming story would recomend.
February 20, 2025
✅ My thoughts:
This is the last book in the Linder Family Series. This series is a best friends dad age gap romance.
The story revolves around Lisa and Mateo. Lots of chemistry between them!
Mateo has a reputation as a ladies man….never one to settle down. But, certainly one that likes to play around from what others say.
Lisa is Mateo’s daughter’s best friend…..hmmmm, off limits?
What happens when both are attracted to each other?
The story is an engaging romance with so much family drama! Talk about a complex love story!
The series could be read as standalone. Though I recommend reading the series in order so you know all the characters.
This is the last book in the Linder Family Series. This series is a best friends dad age gap romance.
The story revolves around Lisa and Mateo. Lots of chemistry between them!
Mateo has a reputation as a ladies man….never one to settle down. But, certainly one that likes to play around from what others say.
Lisa is Mateo’s daughter’s best friend…..hmmmm, off limits?
What happens when both are attracted to each other?
The story is an engaging romance with so much family drama! Talk about a complex love story!
The series could be read as standalone. Though I recommend reading the series in order so you know all the characters.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews