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Cruise Crush: A Romantic Comedy
What happens when you combine shrimp cocktail, sensual massages, humor, and undeniable attraction? A full-blown case of Cruise Crush!Kathleen Allen takes us on a voyage filled with steamy romance, adventure, and even a little deceit when two wayward hearts literally bump into each other. If you like Meghan Quinn and Tessa Bailey, you won’t want to miss the boat for this cruise!
Anchors aweigh, because this spicy contemporary romance is pulling out of port! It’s a tale filled with secret identities, awkward situations, humor, exotic destinations, witty banter, and fiery passion. Pack your bags because Cruise Crush is your ultimate vacation beach read!
“Cruise Crush is a journey worth taking, especially for those who love reading romance novels with an added bit of spice!”-- Shrubaboti Bose for The Feathered Quill ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
True love is rare. Don’t wave from the dock as it sails away.
AJ, the millionaire soon-to-be CEO of Pinnacle Cruise Line, is seeking some relaxation before diving into his new high-pressure role. A low-key weeklong Caribbean cruise seems like the perfect getaway—until he realizes his responsibilities to his company and wealthy family are impossible to avoid.
Welcome aboard DJ, a stunning former Olympic gymnast turned highly-followed travel blogger. When their paths literally collide, the magnetic attraction between them is impossible to ignore. Since both are on “vacation,” they agree not to discuss their occupations – a challenging task considering their prominence in professional circles.
As DJ and AJ explore exotic destinations and share fiery encounters on the opulent cruise ship, their connection intensifies from witty exchanges and quirky interactions to unbridled passion. But when their true identities are finally revealed, they’ll have to navigate the stormy seas of this unexpected romance—either sinking separately or learning to swim together. Will they survive the drama of the rough waters, or was this only a fleeting Cruise Crush that will be lost at sea?
"If you love rom-coms, flirty banter, “whoops I fell for him” plots, and cruise ship fantasies, this is for you. Perfect for beach reads, bubble baths, or days when your real life feels like a sad salad." -- Literary Titan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
*Silver Medal - Readers' Favorite - Romance-Comedy, 2025 Cruise Crush is Kathleen’s debut novel and the first of a planned series. You can find her at www.kathleenallenromance.com
Anchors aweigh, because this spicy contemporary romance is pulling out of port! It’s a tale filled with secret identities, awkward situations, humor, exotic destinations, witty banter, and fiery passion. Pack your bags because Cruise Crush is your ultimate vacation beach read!
“Cruise Crush is a journey worth taking, especially for those who love reading romance novels with an added bit of spice!”-- Shrubaboti Bose for The Feathered Quill ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
True love is rare. Don’t wave from the dock as it sails away.
AJ, the millionaire soon-to-be CEO of Pinnacle Cruise Line, is seeking some relaxation before diving into his new high-pressure role. A low-key weeklong Caribbean cruise seems like the perfect getaway—until he realizes his responsibilities to his company and wealthy family are impossible to avoid.
Welcome aboard DJ, a stunning former Olympic gymnast turned highly-followed travel blogger. When their paths literally collide, the magnetic attraction between them is impossible to ignore. Since both are on “vacation,” they agree not to discuss their occupations – a challenging task considering their prominence in professional circles.
As DJ and AJ explore exotic destinations and share fiery encounters on the opulent cruise ship, their connection intensifies from witty exchanges and quirky interactions to unbridled passion. But when their true identities are finally revealed, they’ll have to navigate the stormy seas of this unexpected romance—either sinking separately or learning to swim together. Will they survive the drama of the rough waters, or was this only a fleeting Cruise Crush that will be lost at sea?
"If you love rom-coms, flirty banter, “whoops I fell for him” plots, and cruise ship fantasies, this is for you. Perfect for beach reads, bubble baths, or days when your real life feels like a sad salad." -- Literary Titan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
*Silver Medal - Readers' Favorite - Romance-Comedy, 2025 Cruise Crush is Kathleen’s debut novel and the first of a planned series. You can find her at www.kathleenallenromance.com
205 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2025
24 people are currently reading
401 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 6, 2025
This book gives the ultimate vacation vibes. It’s the perfect blend of romance and adventure set against the backdrop of a cruise ship. I adored the characters AJ and DJ. They both were well developed and brought their own complexity to the narrative. Allen does a great job of giving vivid descriptions, which makes you feel as if you’re right on the journey of with them. The chemistry between AJ and DJ was both undeniable and believable.
Overall, this story is filled with passion, humor, and the challenges of balancing personal desires with professional responsibilities.
Overall, this story is filled with passion, humor, and the challenges of balancing personal desires with professional responsibilities.
August 13, 2025
Book Review
Cruise Crush by Kathleen Allen
( New to me author)
What Its Got
✅ travel vacation vibes
✅ close family
✅ hidden identity
✅ he falls first ( or at least is the first to admit it)
✅ spicy 🌶️ open door romance
✅ not quite love at first sight but they both fall hard and fast
✅ humour and chemistry
Thoughts
📕 Could you fall in love in one week? Is a “cruise crush” just that or can it be more? Can you truly know someone when you dont have any details? Now- typically I am not a huge fan of the love at first sight/when you know you know trope BUT…. Allen makes it work for Cruise Crush. There is an emotional depth to each of the MCs , their chemistry, and their encounters with the people surrounding them that builds a sense of connection for the reader. Their attraction and feelings for one another feel genuine and authentic.
📕 AJ and DJ - gag- sappy right? I much prefer Andrew and Delaney but I can appreciate how their “hidden selves” added some magic and mystery to their relationship
📕I loved how their relationship unfolded- a fishy meet cute, humour steeped in innuendo, excursions and firsts, love notes and journal entries, shared moments and inside jokes led to an unforgettable love story on the high seas
📕 I feel there were soo many missed opportunities for sailing puns (Love Boat? Our love sets sail? Big waves lead to smooth sailing? Shipwrecked in love?) 😅
📕 the book could have been longer- more pages to draw out the experience for the reader, more tension, more sunset gondola rides- just more ( ok- maybe larger font? No? Just me- ok, ok- I read the book with my glasses on)
Comparisons
If you enjoy Meghan Quinn, Tessa Bailey or Ana Huang you will love Allen’s mix of humour, steam and spice
Thanks to the author and publisher for my copy in return for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own.
Cruise Crush by Kathleen Allen
( New to me author)
What Its Got
✅ travel vacation vibes
✅ close family
✅ hidden identity
✅ he falls first ( or at least is the first to admit it)
✅ spicy 🌶️ open door romance
✅ not quite love at first sight but they both fall hard and fast
✅ humour and chemistry
Thoughts
📕 Could you fall in love in one week? Is a “cruise crush” just that or can it be more? Can you truly know someone when you dont have any details? Now- typically I am not a huge fan of the love at first sight/when you know you know trope BUT…. Allen makes it work for Cruise Crush. There is an emotional depth to each of the MCs , their chemistry, and their encounters with the people surrounding them that builds a sense of connection for the reader. Their attraction and feelings for one another feel genuine and authentic.
📕 AJ and DJ - gag- sappy right? I much prefer Andrew and Delaney but I can appreciate how their “hidden selves” added some magic and mystery to their relationship
📕I loved how their relationship unfolded- a fishy meet cute, humour steeped in innuendo, excursions and firsts, love notes and journal entries, shared moments and inside jokes led to an unforgettable love story on the high seas
📕 I feel there were soo many missed opportunities for sailing puns (Love Boat? Our love sets sail? Big waves lead to smooth sailing? Shipwrecked in love?) 😅
📕 the book could have been longer- more pages to draw out the experience for the reader, more tension, more sunset gondola rides- just more ( ok- maybe larger font? No? Just me- ok, ok- I read the book with my glasses on)
Comparisons
If you enjoy Meghan Quinn, Tessa Bailey or Ana Huang you will love Allen’s mix of humour, steam and spice
Thanks to the author and publisher for my copy in return for an honest review. Opinions expressed are my own.
August 16, 2025
Unfortunately, this one was a big miss for me. It was a strange combination of spicy romance, yet prudish at the same time, with the FMC refusing to say the word orgasm and saying O instead, and calling her nether regions "chat", the French word for cat. It made for extremely awkward sex scenes, and was uncomfortable to read. The writing style sounded juvenile as well, with both the FMC and MMC using abundant exclamation points and punctuating their statements with hashtags. The premise had promise, with a cruise ship fling where both parties don't reveal their true identity, but I found it hard to believe that they would be in love after four days. The third act breakup/miscommunication is always frustrating to read, but paired with immature characters, it's infuriating. Told in dual POV, both Delaney and Andrew had almost the same voice, and they tell what happens via inner monologue rather than conversations between the two, so their connection didn't feel deep enough to me to warrant these feelings they supposedly had so quickly. At under 200 pages, it was a quick, light read, so not a huge time investment if you want something to pass the time at the beach or pool.
March 18, 2025
Kathleen Allen’s debut novel Cruise Crush is not your usual romance story. Of course, like the title suggests, it involves Delaney - the main character, developing a crush on a handsome young man on the cruise ship, but there is more to the story than meets the eye.
Their first encounter is simultaneously hilarious and memorable. He accidentally bumps into Delaney, spilling cocktail sauce all over her clothes. But without making a big deal out of it, she simply lets it pass. During the brief exchange that follows, as she turns her head up, she is immediately mesmerized by the genuine look of concern reflected in his dark brown eyes. From the young man’s point of view, who we come to know as AJ later on, he is equally enchanted by Delaney’s dazzling blue eyes, which exuded both calmness and confidence despite the mess he had made.
By this point of the story, it is clear that Allen has a gift for describing things and using little details to bring a scene into life. Her sharp observation skills help to portray characters in a realistic light, allowing us to connect with them at a deeper level. For instance, when Andi (AJ’s elder sister) talks to AJ and refers to Greg (her long lost husband) while doing the dishes, we can sense her longing and grief for her partner. When their family gets together for any reason, be it to share a dinner or to bid each other goodbye at the porch before leaving, we can feel the warmth in their hugs. It might be possible to even assume that due to such a detailed narration, the story is able to maintain its element of suspense while consistently contributing to the slow build-up of an intense chemistry between the protagonists.
Therefore, it is no surprise that when it comes to steamy details too, the author undoubtedly delivers. It is certainly difficult to mold sexual attraction in a fashion which keeps it sensual without making it seem like objectification of the other party. But in this regard, Allen does a good job by giving both characters an equal standing, subjecting both of them to a similar gendered gaze and more importantly, making sure that they are characters who understand the meaning of consent. A big part of Delaney’s attraction to the mysterious young man onboard is also his thoughtful gestures and courteous behavior, apart from him being well-groomed and properly dressed, so what stays significant here is the establishment of his character as a gentleman.
One of the many aspects that makes this novel intriguing is how the author chose to keep the real identities of the characters hidden from one another. Although as readers we have the upper hand here and can see their every thought and emotion, they remain unknown to the characters themselves and we are left to anticipate the direction in which the plot would progress. In this context, the shifting point of view makes it easier for us to follow the gradual development of the storyline and to further trace character growth. In fact, within the span of seven and a few more days, the readers, along with the characters, are taken for a roller coaster ride, full of unpredictable events that eventually align perfectly once we come towards the end of the story.
Quill says: Cruise Crush is a journey worth taking, especially for those who love reading romance novels with an added bit of spice!
Their first encounter is simultaneously hilarious and memorable. He accidentally bumps into Delaney, spilling cocktail sauce all over her clothes. But without making a big deal out of it, she simply lets it pass. During the brief exchange that follows, as she turns her head up, she is immediately mesmerized by the genuine look of concern reflected in his dark brown eyes. From the young man’s point of view, who we come to know as AJ later on, he is equally enchanted by Delaney’s dazzling blue eyes, which exuded both calmness and confidence despite the mess he had made.
By this point of the story, it is clear that Allen has a gift for describing things and using little details to bring a scene into life. Her sharp observation skills help to portray characters in a realistic light, allowing us to connect with them at a deeper level. For instance, when Andi (AJ’s elder sister) talks to AJ and refers to Greg (her long lost husband) while doing the dishes, we can sense her longing and grief for her partner. When their family gets together for any reason, be it to share a dinner or to bid each other goodbye at the porch before leaving, we can feel the warmth in their hugs. It might be possible to even assume that due to such a detailed narration, the story is able to maintain its element of suspense while consistently contributing to the slow build-up of an intense chemistry between the protagonists.
Therefore, it is no surprise that when it comes to steamy details too, the author undoubtedly delivers. It is certainly difficult to mold sexual attraction in a fashion which keeps it sensual without making it seem like objectification of the other party. But in this regard, Allen does a good job by giving both characters an equal standing, subjecting both of them to a similar gendered gaze and more importantly, making sure that they are characters who understand the meaning of consent. A big part of Delaney’s attraction to the mysterious young man onboard is also his thoughtful gestures and courteous behavior, apart from him being well-groomed and properly dressed, so what stays significant here is the establishment of his character as a gentleman.
One of the many aspects that makes this novel intriguing is how the author chose to keep the real identities of the characters hidden from one another. Although as readers we have the upper hand here and can see their every thought and emotion, they remain unknown to the characters themselves and we are left to anticipate the direction in which the plot would progress. In this context, the shifting point of view makes it easier for us to follow the gradual development of the storyline and to further trace character growth. In fact, within the span of seven and a few more days, the readers, along with the characters, are taken for a roller coaster ride, full of unpredictable events that eventually align perfectly once we come towards the end of the story.
Quill says: Cruise Crush is a journey worth taking, especially for those who love reading romance novels with an added bit of spice!
March 24, 2025
Kathleen Allen’s “cruise crush” is the ultimate vacation read - a delightful blend of romance, humour and adventure set against the backdrop of a luxurious cruise experience. Trust me, it’ll make you want to book a getaway right after finishing it.
AJ, preparing to take over as CEO, and DJ, a former Olympic gymnast turned travel blogger, meet on a cruise while keeping their identities secret. However, when their true identities are revealed, they must navigate the challenges that come with their respective roles and expectations.
Y’all this book honestly. Allen’s writing shines with its engaging dialogue and more than charming characters (like seriously get me an AJ right now). The novel balances humour with emotional depth - making it the perfect romance.
“Cruise crush” captures the vacation mood so well I’m PINING for a vacation myself. The descriptions are just fabulous making it easy to imagine where the characters are and what they’re experiencing. The romance between AJ and DJ is just purely *magnetic* 😉The playful nods to classic romantic tropes are just top tier I see you Notting Hill!😉
Overall, honestly “Cruise Crush” is a fantastic debut. It’s a book that will make you laugh, swoon, cry and dream of your next vacation. If you love romance and the witty banter and chemistry of authors like Tessa Bailey and Meghan Quinn - THIS ONE’S FOR YOU!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
AJ, preparing to take over as CEO, and DJ, a former Olympic gymnast turned travel blogger, meet on a cruise while keeping their identities secret. However, when their true identities are revealed, they must navigate the challenges that come with their respective roles and expectations.
Y’all this book honestly. Allen’s writing shines with its engaging dialogue and more than charming characters (like seriously get me an AJ right now). The novel balances humour with emotional depth - making it the perfect romance.
“Cruise crush” captures the vacation mood so well I’m PINING for a vacation myself. The descriptions are just fabulous making it easy to imagine where the characters are and what they’re experiencing. The romance between AJ and DJ is just purely *magnetic* 😉The playful nods to classic romantic tropes are just top tier I see you Notting Hill!😉
Overall, honestly “Cruise Crush” is a fantastic debut. It’s a book that will make you laugh, swoon, cry and dream of your next vacation. If you love romance and the witty banter and chemistry of authors like Tessa Bailey and Meghan Quinn - THIS ONE’S FOR YOU!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2025
Equal to the ocean, love is untamed unpredictable, and able to devour even the most stubborn souls, Kathleen Allen builds a relationship in Cruise Crush that takes away opposition in its wake and crashes like a rogue wave! Kathleen Allen's Cruise Crush is a novel that rivets your heart with its enchantment, humor, and the perfect amount of scandalously delicious tension, with every page turn, this novel takes you to a world of sun-kissed decks, romantic meals, and an enchanting romance that makes you feel the breath of the ocean!
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Delaney our FMC is energetic, daring, and completely adventurous, before a momentous encounter involving shrimp cocktail and an expensive shirt changes everything, AJ our MMC is the soon-to-be CEO of a luxury cruise line, he's used to being in charge, there's such a magical layer how the Author has created two wonderful characters that pull each other and have such an energy they I really felt and loved it! Kathleen Allen develops a relationship that is extremely touching as well to being incredibly beautiful, the banter is charmingly provocative, the emotional stakes are compulsively attractive, and the slow burn is wickedly delicious! Delaney and AJ's relationship evolves from a playful cruise fling into something much deeper as they visit stunning places; it's something neither of them anticipated but both of them can't resist!!!
.
Cruise Crush by Kathleen Allen is a must-read if you enjoy Meghan Quinn's lighthearted, hilarious comedy, Tessa Bailey's compelling spice and Ana Huang's intriguing millionaire romances! This is a romantic trip you won't want to end! Ten stars, and hands down the debut book of the Year!!! I will 100% reread it in August, in the middle of the sea. This is a masterpiece that every reader must add to their TBR, especially during summer vacation! Whether you want an engaging story or an unforgettable read , this book truly delivers! It's lighthearted, romantic, and most importantly it unfolds a romance that can at times surprise us in unexpected ways, Be prepared for a romantic adventure if you're sailing with Cruise Crush by our newest favorite Author Kathleen Allen!
.
Delaney our FMC is energetic, daring, and completely adventurous, before a momentous encounter involving shrimp cocktail and an expensive shirt changes everything, AJ our MMC is the soon-to-be CEO of a luxury cruise line, he's used to being in charge, there's such a magical layer how the Author has created two wonderful characters that pull each other and have such an energy they I really felt and loved it! Kathleen Allen develops a relationship that is extremely touching as well to being incredibly beautiful, the banter is charmingly provocative, the emotional stakes are compulsively attractive, and the slow burn is wickedly delicious! Delaney and AJ's relationship evolves from a playful cruise fling into something much deeper as they visit stunning places; it's something neither of them anticipated but both of them can't resist!!!
.
Cruise Crush by Kathleen Allen is a must-read if you enjoy Meghan Quinn's lighthearted, hilarious comedy, Tessa Bailey's compelling spice and Ana Huang's intriguing millionaire romances! This is a romantic trip you won't want to end! Ten stars, and hands down the debut book of the Year!!! I will 100% reread it in August, in the middle of the sea. This is a masterpiece that every reader must add to their TBR, especially during summer vacation! Whether you want an engaging story or an unforgettable read , this book truly delivers! It's lighthearted, romantic, and most importantly it unfolds a romance that can at times surprise us in unexpected ways, Be prepared for a romantic adventure if you're sailing with Cruise Crush by our newest favorite Author Kathleen Allen!
April 2, 2025
I wanted to like this book but I really didn’t. Honestly, the plot was written well outside of the smut. I liked following along with the story but it got the point where I dreaded the characters interacting because that’s where I really didn’t like the book. I really liked the idea of a cruise themed romance with lots of settings and activities. The meet-cute was well-written. It had a nice happy ending. That’s about where the things I liked about this book end.
I would like to preface this by saying I like spice 🌶️ as much as the next person in books. However, for starters both characters were written in the exact same way and tone so when the author was writing different viewpoints, you wouldn’t have been able to differentiate who was speaking without her labeling it with the character’s name at the top. The way they talked about sex and the sexual feelings was so cringy and in my opinion, it completely ruined the spice and felt unnatural. The FMC uses hashtags randomly throughout the book and during the spicy scenes which is a bizarre time to use them. She also uses the word yummy to describe everything dealing with Andrew which makes you feel like you’re reading about an immature high schooler, not someone in their late 20s. The FMC can’t even use the words orgasm or vagina, she uses Os and the French word for cat 🥴🙃. This also was super off putting as a reader. Even the way they interacted at points was super unrealistic. The amount of times Andrew got hard in public in this book would cause any female in real life to be concerned, not turned on. Delaney also was constantly talking about her own body and how great it was. Her boobs were probably mentioned for 25% of the book and that’s no exaggeration. The outfit descriptions always ended up with them thinking sexual innuendos about each other every time they saw each other was really annoying and felt like the reader was in a bad 1970s porno. At points, the spice consisted solely of “fuuuuuuck yeeeeess” anytime anything happened which was just too much. The use of exclamation points during the spice was also overkill. Also, the “quick wit” that Delaney supposedly had didn’t even make sense for most of the book. Delaney also was just really irritating with the amount of times she overthought things with Andrew. They purposely didn’t want to talk about their jobs with each other and then she goes off the handle and is completely unreasonable when he’s late to meet her. You might think, well that’s normal. But when he does explain to her, she still stomps off and doesn’t want to hear him out. I’m glad they had a happy ending but at times I was getting frustrated by the lack of simple communication.
I will say, this book did give me some laughs and amusement with how cringy parts of the book are. I was an ARC reader for this book from Warrington Publishers so I am giving my honest review.
I would like to preface this by saying I like spice 🌶️ as much as the next person in books. However, for starters both characters were written in the exact same way and tone so when the author was writing different viewpoints, you wouldn’t have been able to differentiate who was speaking without her labeling it with the character’s name at the top. The way they talked about sex and the sexual feelings was so cringy and in my opinion, it completely ruined the spice and felt unnatural. The FMC uses hashtags randomly throughout the book and during the spicy scenes which is a bizarre time to use them. She also uses the word yummy to describe everything dealing with Andrew which makes you feel like you’re reading about an immature high schooler, not someone in their late 20s. The FMC can’t even use the words orgasm or vagina, she uses Os and the French word for cat 🥴🙃. This also was super off putting as a reader. Even the way they interacted at points was super unrealistic. The amount of times Andrew got hard in public in this book would cause any female in real life to be concerned, not turned on. Delaney also was constantly talking about her own body and how great it was. Her boobs were probably mentioned for 25% of the book and that’s no exaggeration. The outfit descriptions always ended up with them thinking sexual innuendos about each other every time they saw each other was really annoying and felt like the reader was in a bad 1970s porno. At points, the spice consisted solely of “fuuuuuuck yeeeeess” anytime anything happened which was just too much. The use of exclamation points during the spice was also overkill. Also, the “quick wit” that Delaney supposedly had didn’t even make sense for most of the book. Delaney also was just really irritating with the amount of times she overthought things with Andrew. They purposely didn’t want to talk about their jobs with each other and then she goes off the handle and is completely unreasonable when he’s late to meet her. You might think, well that’s normal. But when he does explain to her, she still stomps off and doesn’t want to hear him out. I’m glad they had a happy ending but at times I was getting frustrated by the lack of simple communication.
I will say, this book did give me some laughs and amusement with how cringy parts of the book are. I was an ARC reader for this book from Warrington Publishers so I am giving my honest review.
June 7, 2025
A bookstagrammer I follow raved about this one, and as a cruise girlie through and through, I was so excited to dive in but… this book just didn’t land for me, and a lot of that comes down to the writing style. It leans heavily on internal monologue and exposition, with very little dialogue to actually move the story forward. The meet-cute is over before it even begins—maybe four lines of conversation—and the chemistry is entirely told rather than shown. The excessive use of exclamation marks, rhetorical questions, and cringe-inducing lines like “the thought of giving her a pearl necklace makes my loins tingle” didn’t help.
The romance is pure insta-lust, with no real foundation. They spend nine hours together, but the only conversation the reader gets to witness is her top travel destinations. He masturbates thinking about her, invites her to his room for a massage with a full spa setup, and they somehow end up spending nearly every moment of the cruise together—even though they’re both supposed to be working. He’s the next CEO of a billion-dollar company but calls in favors for flowers, spa gear, and does body shots off a guest? It’s hard to suspend disbelief when nothing about their behavior feels grounded or realistic.
The FMC being worried about being recognized as an Olympian from nearly a decade ago seemed like a stretch. The hashtags thrown into the narrative were distracting, and the nickname she has for her vagina made me cringe. Even the smut felt lackluster—calling orgasms “o’s” and featuring tired tropes like spilled cocktails (twice!) added to the sense that this story relied on gimmicks more than connection.
Their eventual falling-out involves him ghosting her for a late work call and then reacting immaturely when he assumes she was using him. His family explains everything, including constant reminders about a $1.4 billion ship investment, and then forgives her after a bad review because she was “heartbroken.” By the end, they reconnect, confess their love, and get married six months later.
It all felt over-the-top and emotionally shallow. At just over 200 pages, this could’ve been trimmed into a tighter novella. The story dragged, the internal monologue was self-important, the dialogue was immature, and the heat between them never quite ignited. A lot of potential was buried under too many clichés and odd writing choices.
The romance is pure insta-lust, with no real foundation. They spend nine hours together, but the only conversation the reader gets to witness is her top travel destinations. He masturbates thinking about her, invites her to his room for a massage with a full spa setup, and they somehow end up spending nearly every moment of the cruise together—even though they’re both supposed to be working. He’s the next CEO of a billion-dollar company but calls in favors for flowers, spa gear, and does body shots off a guest? It’s hard to suspend disbelief when nothing about their behavior feels grounded or realistic.
The FMC being worried about being recognized as an Olympian from nearly a decade ago seemed like a stretch. The hashtags thrown into the narrative were distracting, and the nickname she has for her vagina made me cringe. Even the smut felt lackluster—calling orgasms “o’s” and featuring tired tropes like spilled cocktails (twice!) added to the sense that this story relied on gimmicks more than connection.
Their eventual falling-out involves him ghosting her for a late work call and then reacting immaturely when he assumes she was using him. His family explains everything, including constant reminders about a $1.4 billion ship investment, and then forgives her after a bad review because she was “heartbroken.” By the end, they reconnect, confess their love, and get married six months later.
It all felt over-the-top and emotionally shallow. At just over 200 pages, this could’ve been trimmed into a tighter novella. The story dragged, the internal monologue was self-important, the dialogue was immature, and the heat between them never quite ignited. A lot of potential was buried under too many clichés and odd writing choices.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2025
Cruise Crush by Kathleen Allen is basically the ultimate vacation rom-com wrapped in cruise ship glamour. It follows Andrew, a hot workaholic on the brink of becoming CEO of Pinnacle Cruise Lines, and Delaney, a witty former Olympic gymnast turned travel writer, as their lives crash—literally—into each other during a seven-day cruise through the Caribbean. It's dual POV, packed with hilarious inner monologues, a slow-burn romance, gorgeous settings, and a whole lot of sexual tension.
I love how Kathleen Allen writes people. Andrew isn’t just your typical brooding rich guy—he’s got depth, manners, and a thing for Bath & Body Works candles. I laughed when he proudly talked about knowing the difference between tampons and pads thanks to his sisters. And Delaney is so relatable it hurts. Her hungover airport dash had me wheezing. She’s sharp, sweet, a little chaotic, and totally someone I’d follow on Instagram. Also, she's secretly reviewing the cruise under a pen name, and I love a girl with secrets.
One scene that absolutely did it for me was their first real dinner together at Emilio’s. The way she panics when she sees him across the restaurant was classic. He thinks she’s married because of her fake ring, and she thinks he’s just being nice until he sends over a $250 bottle of Dom with a note. My heart melted. And when she tells him, Their chemistry was giving “slow-burn with tension so thick you could cut it with a steak knife.”
The writing itself is super fun. Fast-paced, flirty, and loaded with inner thoughts that feel so real. Like when Delaney's ogling his forearms and planning his tattoo location. And the ship descriptions made me want to pack a bag. From the buttery towels to the fancy spa to the lobster-stuffed ravioli, Allen nails the vibe of a luxury cruise without being over-the-top. Even the side characters—like Kristen the badass assistant and Ally-Cat the cruise director—are well-drawn and add layers.
SIf you love rom-coms, flirty banter, “whoops I fell for him” plots, and cruise ship fantasies, this is for you. Perfect for beach reads, bubble baths, or days when your real life feels like a sad salad. It’s playful, sexy, and gives off strong “Hallmark movie but with better sex appeal” energy. I’m already hoping for a sequel.
I love how Kathleen Allen writes people. Andrew isn’t just your typical brooding rich guy—he’s got depth, manners, and a thing for Bath & Body Works candles. I laughed when he proudly talked about knowing the difference between tampons and pads thanks to his sisters. And Delaney is so relatable it hurts. Her hungover airport dash had me wheezing. She’s sharp, sweet, a little chaotic, and totally someone I’d follow on Instagram. Also, she's secretly reviewing the cruise under a pen name, and I love a girl with secrets.
One scene that absolutely did it for me was their first real dinner together at Emilio’s. The way she panics when she sees him across the restaurant was classic. He thinks she’s married because of her fake ring, and she thinks he’s just being nice until he sends over a $250 bottle of Dom with a note. My heart melted. And when she tells him, Their chemistry was giving “slow-burn with tension so thick you could cut it with a steak knife.”
The writing itself is super fun. Fast-paced, flirty, and loaded with inner thoughts that feel so real. Like when Delaney's ogling his forearms and planning his tattoo location. And the ship descriptions made me want to pack a bag. From the buttery towels to the fancy spa to the lobster-stuffed ravioli, Allen nails the vibe of a luxury cruise without being over-the-top. Even the side characters—like Kristen the badass assistant and Ally-Cat the cruise director—are well-drawn and add layers.
SIf you love rom-coms, flirty banter, “whoops I fell for him” plots, and cruise ship fantasies, this is for you. Perfect for beach reads, bubble baths, or days when your real life feels like a sad salad. It’s playful, sexy, and gives off strong “Hallmark movie but with better sex appeal” energy. I’m already hoping for a sequel.
May 24, 2025
The sea has always been a guardian of whispered promises and wild desires and in Cruise Crush, Kathleen Allen crafts a plot that's as arresting as the horizon at golden hour—elusive, beautiful, and unstoppable. I immediately fell in love with this tremendous, epic, all-consuming debut romance from the very first page. The banter, the suspense, and the steam were all flawless. My Kindle is still overheating.
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Our main protagonists, Delaney and AJ, have an incredible fascinating relationship. They can be funny and flirty one moment, and then the tension between them is so intense that it almost crackles. In the best way possible, their meeting was complete chaos. It feels like fate how they fall in love because it's so casually extravagant and absurdly beautiful. And let's not even talk about AJ, who is the pinnacle of hopelessly adorable. Wealthy and strong, yet kind and thoughtful... a real dreamboat. On the contrary, Delaney is a powerful force, and her self-assurance makes every situation she's in completely captivating. Every moment of their trip had me in awe; they are the perfect power couple.
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This book has it all, witty and funny banter, exotic settings, mind-blowing scandals, and a romance so incredibly desirable that it almost begs to be read all at once. A story written by Kathleen Allen is sure to make your heart race, your emotions churn, and your expectations for book boyfriends soar. This is the perfect title if you enjoy a romantic relationship that is sweet, daring, and incredibly wealthy. I really was in shock when I heard that this is a debut book, Kathleen Allen's prose says otherwise because it made me melt and shatter my heart multiple times and don't let me start with the comedy, my mother came in my room checking who's screaming uncontrollably hahahah.
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Our main protagonists, Delaney and AJ, have an incredible fascinating relationship. They can be funny and flirty one moment, and then the tension between them is so intense that it almost crackles. In the best way possible, their meeting was complete chaos. It feels like fate how they fall in love because it's so casually extravagant and absurdly beautiful. And let's not even talk about AJ, who is the pinnacle of hopelessly adorable. Wealthy and strong, yet kind and thoughtful... a real dreamboat. On the contrary, Delaney is a powerful force, and her self-assurance makes every situation she's in completely captivating. Every moment of their trip had me in awe; they are the perfect power couple.
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This book has it all, witty and funny banter, exotic settings, mind-blowing scandals, and a romance so incredibly desirable that it almost begs to be read all at once. A story written by Kathleen Allen is sure to make your heart race, your emotions churn, and your expectations for book boyfriends soar. This is the perfect title if you enjoy a romantic relationship that is sweet, daring, and incredibly wealthy. I really was in shock when I heard that this is a debut book, Kathleen Allen's prose says otherwise because it made me melt and shatter my heart multiple times and don't let me start with the comedy, my mother came in my room checking who's screaming uncontrollably hahahah.
May 24, 2025
The novel Cruise Crush by Kathleen Allen is the kind of book that hooks all of the senses and guides the reader to a world so fabulously rich and scandalously delicious that it begs to be read in one racing sitting.
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This is a novel that understands indulgence in its most unabashedly rich form—both in how it evokes its breathtakingly elegant surroundings and in how it constructs a relationship that is as sensually charged as it is emotionally poignant. Delaney, a former Olympic gymnast turned travel blogger, is unstoppable—elegantly fascinating, magnificently self-assured, and impossible to ignore. AJ, our MMC, commands influence not only through wealth but also through presence, a guy whose compelling magnetic force is only matched by his complexity. Their decision to keep silent their true identities adds an element of mischievous trickery, raising the suspense and making every touch and look outrageously desirable.
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Every setting, from candlelit dinners to sun-drenched decks, displays an exotic vibe that gives the reader the impression that they are also a part of this hectic occasion. However, this book's power to achieve a compromise between its richly steamy chapters and real emotion is what really makes it shine. Not only does the relationship burn, but it burns with an intimacy that makes the consequences actual, the stakes seem real, and the resolution truly satisfying.
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The love story crafted by Kathleen Allen is incredibly passionate, sinfully addictive, and wonderfully seductive. Every page of Cruise Crush is a compelling drop into the kind of romance that pierces through your heart and brain and bring your mind in a world of unrepentant desire, scandalous extravagance, and intense passion.
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This is a novel that understands indulgence in its most unabashedly rich form—both in how it evokes its breathtakingly elegant surroundings and in how it constructs a relationship that is as sensually charged as it is emotionally poignant. Delaney, a former Olympic gymnast turned travel blogger, is unstoppable—elegantly fascinating, magnificently self-assured, and impossible to ignore. AJ, our MMC, commands influence not only through wealth but also through presence, a guy whose compelling magnetic force is only matched by his complexity. Their decision to keep silent their true identities adds an element of mischievous trickery, raising the suspense and making every touch and look outrageously desirable.
.
Every setting, from candlelit dinners to sun-drenched decks, displays an exotic vibe that gives the reader the impression that they are also a part of this hectic occasion. However, this book's power to achieve a compromise between its richly steamy chapters and real emotion is what really makes it shine. Not only does the relationship burn, but it burns with an intimacy that makes the consequences actual, the stakes seem real, and the resolution truly satisfying.
.
The love story crafted by Kathleen Allen is incredibly passionate, sinfully addictive, and wonderfully seductive. Every page of Cruise Crush is a compelling drop into the kind of romance that pierces through your heart and brain and bring your mind in a world of unrepentant desire, scandalous extravagance, and intense passion.
May 24, 2025
Featuring the setting of a luxuriantly beautiful cruise ship, Cruise Crush by Kathleen Allen compeled me into a world of extravagance, humor, and unbridled romance. A wickedly delicious scene of chaos featuring spilled cocktail sauce, lingering looks, and a dash of coincidence, Delaney and AJ's first collision is cinematic, establishing up the setting for their riveting affair. Kathleen Allen's writing is magnificent and enchanting, carefully pairing desire and humor into a plot that is intriguing and entertaining. Their conversations are electrifying and unquestionably engaging because of their naturally flirty, silky banter that smolders with an unrestrained need that bursts off the pages.
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Cruise Crush delivers an unapologetically luxurious use of romance tropes with a modern and vibrant twist, AJ, the soon-to-be CEO, is the crucial devilishly attractive love interest, while Delaney, a stunning former Olympic gymnast who is now a travel blogger, radiates elegance and confidence, with vivid dialogue and beautifully romantic moments, Kathleen Allen brilliantly constructs the book to create a structure that is humorous and intensely poignant, with a vitality that is thrilling and intensely personal, their chemistry is incredibly swoon-worthy.
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Therefore, Cruise Crush is a stunning novel of passion, humor, and honest emotions, with a plot so well thought out that it keeps you turning the pages long into the night, Kathleen Allen has delivered a romance that is compelling and highly addictive. This story is the ideal escape, sumptuously beautiful and impossible to put down—whether you're pulled in by the vibrant charm of its protagonists, the wickedly fascinating flirtation, or the sheer glamour of its hot scenes!
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Cruise Crush delivers an unapologetically luxurious use of romance tropes with a modern and vibrant twist, AJ, the soon-to-be CEO, is the crucial devilishly attractive love interest, while Delaney, a stunning former Olympic gymnast who is now a travel blogger, radiates elegance and confidence, with vivid dialogue and beautifully romantic moments, Kathleen Allen brilliantly constructs the book to create a structure that is humorous and intensely poignant, with a vitality that is thrilling and intensely personal, their chemistry is incredibly swoon-worthy.
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Therefore, Cruise Crush is a stunning novel of passion, humor, and honest emotions, with a plot so well thought out that it keeps you turning the pages long into the night, Kathleen Allen has delivered a romance that is compelling and highly addictive. This story is the ideal escape, sumptuously beautiful and impossible to put down—whether you're pulled in by the vibrant charm of its protagonists, the wickedly fascinating flirtation, or the sheer glamour of its hot scenes!
May 23, 2025
Kathleen Allen has crafted a flirty, feel-good rom-com that blends humor, heat, and heartfelt moments into one irresistible vacation read. If you're a fan of Meghan Quinn or Tessa Bailey, you’ll want to hop aboard this luxury cruise where shrimp cocktails come with a side of sexual tension, and every port brings new adventure—and drama.
It follows Delaney, a humorous former Olympic gymnast now a travel journalist, and Andrew, a hot workaholic about to become CEO of Pinnacle Cruise Lines, as their worlds collide during a seven-day Caribbean cruise. Andrew is more than just your average sulky rich guy; he has manners, depth, and a penchant for Bath & Body Works candles. And it aches how relatable Delaney is. I was wheezing after watching her inebriated airport run. She is witty, kind, and a touch crazy, and she is someone I would follow on Instagram.
What follows is a sizzling slow-burn romance full of witty banter, laugh-out-loud mishaps, massage-room rendezvous, exotic getaways, and the kind of chemistry that would make even the ocean blush. The question isn’t whether they’re falling for each other—it’s whether they can stay together once the cruise ends and reality docks.
Every reader should put this masterpiece on their to-read list, especially when they have summer vacation to spare! This book delivers whether you're looking for an unforgettable read or an interesting story. Be ready for a beautiful journey if you're sailing with Cruise Crush by our newest favourite author, Kathleen Allen! It's romantic, light-hearted, and most importantly, it unfolds a romance that can occasionally surprise us in unexpected ways!
It follows Delaney, a humorous former Olympic gymnast now a travel journalist, and Andrew, a hot workaholic about to become CEO of Pinnacle Cruise Lines, as their worlds collide during a seven-day Caribbean cruise. Andrew is more than just your average sulky rich guy; he has manners, depth, and a penchant for Bath & Body Works candles. And it aches how relatable Delaney is. I was wheezing after watching her inebriated airport run. She is witty, kind, and a touch crazy, and she is someone I would follow on Instagram.
What follows is a sizzling slow-burn romance full of witty banter, laugh-out-loud mishaps, massage-room rendezvous, exotic getaways, and the kind of chemistry that would make even the ocean blush. The question isn’t whether they’re falling for each other—it’s whether they can stay together once the cruise ends and reality docks.
Every reader should put this masterpiece on their to-read list, especially when they have summer vacation to spare! This book delivers whether you're looking for an unforgettable read or an interesting story. Be ready for a beautiful journey if you're sailing with Cruise Crush by our newest favourite author, Kathleen Allen! It's romantic, light-hearted, and most importantly, it unfolds a romance that can occasionally surprise us in unexpected ways!
May 24, 2025
If you are heading to the beach or going on a cruise and enjoy a side of spice, this is the perfect summer beach read/cruise read for you!
What makes a story stand out is painting a picture with words. I've never been on a cruise, however the way the author described what it's like on a cruise at the beginning of the story made me feel like I was on board as a guest for the trip. The first interaction the main characters have is authentic. Writing from each character's perspectives was smooth sailing and easily distinguishable, which is not always easy to do and often times a miss. The chapters go back and forth between AJ and DJ, who both have great taste in music. They were more than just characters, they were likable individuals I would enjoy meeting in person.
Now, romance is not a genre I gravitate to, especially when there is spice. At times, it goes over the top and got repetitive, which I skimmed over. However, when the pair was getting to know one another, without the spice, you're rooting for them and waiting to see how they react when they each drop their bombshells that they've been keeping from one another. It's just natural to want to go on vacation and put certain duties on the backseat and just have fun.
One of my favorite quotes from the book is, "it's impossible to please or to meet a person's expectations if they don't communicate." Great advice for everyone, not just those entering in a new relationship. It's also ironic as it comes to teach that character a lesson to basically practice what you preach.
I do highly recommend, even if you are just going to the pool to relax. I look forward to when Cruise Fling comes out!
What makes a story stand out is painting a picture with words. I've never been on a cruise, however the way the author described what it's like on a cruise at the beginning of the story made me feel like I was on board as a guest for the trip. The first interaction the main characters have is authentic. Writing from each character's perspectives was smooth sailing and easily distinguishable, which is not always easy to do and often times a miss. The chapters go back and forth between AJ and DJ, who both have great taste in music. They were more than just characters, they were likable individuals I would enjoy meeting in person.
Now, romance is not a genre I gravitate to, especially when there is spice. At times, it goes over the top and got repetitive, which I skimmed over. However, when the pair was getting to know one another, without the spice, you're rooting for them and waiting to see how they react when they each drop their bombshells that they've been keeping from one another. It's just natural to want to go on vacation and put certain duties on the backseat and just have fun.
One of my favorite quotes from the book is, "it's impossible to please or to meet a person's expectations if they don't communicate." Great advice for everyone, not just those entering in a new relationship. It's also ironic as it comes to teach that character a lesson to basically practice what you preach.
I do highly recommend, even if you are just going to the pool to relax. I look forward to when Cruise Fling comes out!
July 1, 2025
Cruise Crush is the perfect go to for a fun, light-hearted read that gives you summer vibes and plenty of spice!
🛳️AJ is preparing to take over his father's role as CEO of their cruise line, Pinnacle. He plans to go on this Carribean Cruise and hopefully get a little relaxation & vacay time in before he takes over complete control. Little does he know, he has a passenger on board taking notes and taking names!
🚢 DJ , a former gold medal Olympic gymnast, has shifted into a career of a travel blogger. She is on this cruise to give an honest review of her interactions and experiences while on the ship.
Both AJ & DJ are keeping their true identities under wraps, so when they have their first interaction, involving a mishap with some cocktail sauce, neither knows who the other is. As they spend the week together having fun, eating meals and going on adventures together and having a couple of pretty heated massage dates (🌶️), they both know this could be much more than just a .... cruise crush .
Both of these characters are great! They are fun and unfiltered! I would have loved more backstory on DJ, but I thought AJ was a well-developed character. I loved the addition of the details about his childhood, growing up with sisters and the fact that he knows the difference between tampons and pads and has an appreciation for Bath and Body Works! 🫶 Little added details like this help the characters become more relatable which always makes me more emotionally invested in their outcome!
This debut novel is full of romance, spice, humor, witty banter AND travel goals! It was a quick read, and I enjoyed every minute of it! I look forward to more in this series!
Thank you, Kathleen Allen for this gifted copy! All opinions are my own!
🛳️AJ is preparing to take over his father's role as CEO of their cruise line, Pinnacle. He plans to go on this Carribean Cruise and hopefully get a little relaxation & vacay time in before he takes over complete control. Little does he know, he has a passenger on board taking notes and taking names!
🚢 DJ , a former gold medal Olympic gymnast, has shifted into a career of a travel blogger. She is on this cruise to give an honest review of her interactions and experiences while on the ship.
Both AJ & DJ are keeping their true identities under wraps, so when they have their first interaction, involving a mishap with some cocktail sauce, neither knows who the other is. As they spend the week together having fun, eating meals and going on adventures together and having a couple of pretty heated massage dates (🌶️), they both know this could be much more than just a .... cruise crush .
Both of these characters are great! They are fun and unfiltered! I would have loved more backstory on DJ, but I thought AJ was a well-developed character. I loved the addition of the details about his childhood, growing up with sisters and the fact that he knows the difference between tampons and pads and has an appreciation for Bath and Body Works! 🫶 Little added details like this help the characters become more relatable which always makes me more emotionally invested in their outcome!
This debut novel is full of romance, spice, humor, witty banter AND travel goals! It was a quick read, and I enjoyed every minute of it! I look forward to more in this series!
Thank you, Kathleen Allen for this gifted copy! All opinions are my own!
April 7, 2025
Kathleen Allen delivers a charming, feel-good romance with Cruise Crush. Set aboard a luxury cruise ship, this story blends humor and sizzling chemistry into a fun, fast-paced read that’s perfect for fans of romance novels with a side of adventure.
The FMC Delaney aka “DJ” brings heart and sass, while the MMC Andrew aka “AJ” is equal parts smooth and swoon-worthy. Their banter is natural and funny, and the romantic tension builds just right. What really shines is the sense of community and family woven into the book, there’s warmth and connection on every page.
I loved the vacation romance, and the cruise ship setting makes everything feel fresh and fun. It's easy to get swept up in the sunshine, cocktails, and unexpected danger. (I’m also a part time travel agent so this was right up my alley!)
The spicy scenes were great and I loved DJ’s comparison of her body’s reaction to AJ with the Hot and Ready sign at Krispy Kreme! 😜😂
The miscommunication and misunderstandings/lack of communication in the latter portion of the book was annoying. And the writing style was a bit odd initially. There was a lot of exclamation points and paragraphs ending with hashtags which were cutesy, and in my opinion unnecessary. I’m an exclamation point girl and find that I need to tone them down in my own writing, so I get it.
If you’re looking for a sweet and spicy escape with characters you’ll want to be best friends with, Cruise Crush won’t disappoint.
The FMC Delaney aka “DJ” brings heart and sass, while the MMC Andrew aka “AJ” is equal parts smooth and swoon-worthy. Their banter is natural and funny, and the romantic tension builds just right. What really shines is the sense of community and family woven into the book, there’s warmth and connection on every page.
I loved the vacation romance, and the cruise ship setting makes everything feel fresh and fun. It's easy to get swept up in the sunshine, cocktails, and unexpected danger. (I’m also a part time travel agent so this was right up my alley!)
The spicy scenes were great and I loved DJ’s comparison of her body’s reaction to AJ with the Hot and Ready sign at Krispy Kreme! 😜😂
The miscommunication and misunderstandings/lack of communication in the latter portion of the book was annoying. And the writing style was a bit odd initially. There was a lot of exclamation points and paragraphs ending with hashtags which were cutesy, and in my opinion unnecessary. I’m an exclamation point girl and find that I need to tone them down in my own writing, so I get it.
If you’re looking for a sweet and spicy escape with characters you’ll want to be best friends with, Cruise Crush won’t disappoint.
April 9, 2025
When AJ and DJ board their Pinnacle cruise, they never imagined that it would turn out to be such an epic adventure. From their first meeting, their attraction is electric and irresistible, and they quickly lose focus on the reason why they’re on the cruise in favour of spending every moment they can together. Despite their connection, they’re both hiding a part of their identity, which could crush their blossoming relationship before they find their legs back on dry land.
This story takes the reader on two journeys, the one on the cruise, and the one of the relationship between AJ and DJ. The author transports you onboard with vivid descriptions of the ship and all the places visited along the way leaving you feeling like you’ve been there yourself. The story of AJ and DJ is sweet, funny and romantic with a perfect level of steam, and they’re joined by a great cast of supporting characters. Recommended for readers looking for a fun tropical getaway in a book, with engaging characters, witty and zinging dialogue and sizzling steam.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story takes the reader on two journeys, the one on the cruise, and the one of the relationship between AJ and DJ. The author transports you onboard with vivid descriptions of the ship and all the places visited along the way leaving you feeling like you’ve been there yourself. The story of AJ and DJ is sweet, funny and romantic with a perfect level of steam, and they’re joined by a great cast of supporting characters. Recommended for readers looking for a fun tropical getaway in a book, with engaging characters, witty and zinging dialogue and sizzling steam.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2025
"I'm very comfortable being single. It's just that I don't want to be." -Delaney
A.J. and D.J. meet, agree not to discuss careers, and have adventures at sea. The chemistry is hot, the adventures are exciting, and his woo-ing of her is what dreams are made of. The characters are lovable, relatable, and there's no way you're not on their side - both of them because they both know what they want. A.J. is comfortable in his own skin, respectful, and hot. The spicy is SPIIIIICY but somehow it's still a slow burn. D.J. is fun but cautious, easy going, and funny. he good news is they both have siblings and feel a series coming on. This has been one of my best reads this year. I enjoyed all of it.
"I realize I want to be with this man tonight tomorrow and every day after that. I just don't know how to tell him. #fallinghard"
I received this e-book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
A.J. and D.J. meet, agree not to discuss careers, and have adventures at sea. The chemistry is hot, the adventures are exciting, and his woo-ing of her is what dreams are made of. The characters are lovable, relatable, and there's no way you're not on their side - both of them because they both know what they want. A.J. is comfortable in his own skin, respectful, and hot. The spicy is SPIIIIICY but somehow it's still a slow burn. D.J. is fun but cautious, easy going, and funny. he good news is they both have siblings and feel a series coming on. This has been one of my best reads this year. I enjoyed all of it.
"I realize I want to be with this man tonight tomorrow and every day after that. I just don't know how to tell him. #fallinghard"
I received this e-book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
May 19, 2025
🛳️❤️🛳️❤️🛳️❤️🛳️❤️🛳️❤️🛳️❤️🛳️❤️🛳️❤️
Passport ✅
Itinerary to gorgeous destinations ✅
Your next vacation read ✅
I just binged the Cruise Crush by Kathleen Allen and let’s say I’m trading in my espresso martinis for a pinko colada (read the book, you will crave one too!) 🍍🍹.
All aboard the Pinnacle, a luxury cruise ship where we meet soon-to-be CEO, AJ and Gold Medal Olympian DJ. ( yes their names rhyme, yes it’s adorable). They agree to keep their work identities a secret while crushing on each other hard and you can guess that secret unravels faster than a bottomless glass of espresso martinis!
🛳️If you are going on vacation, grab this book.
❤️If you want a fun summer read, grab this book.
🛳️If you want to pretend you are on vacation, grab the, well you get the idea!
Rating - 4 / 5 espresso martinis ( with a side of SPF 100 bc some of the scenes are hot, hot, HOT)
September 11, 2025
Will a meet cute involving spilt cocktail sauce, secret identities, and a luxurious vacation cruise turn into a happily ever after?
I had so much fun cruising along with Andi and Delaney. I felt immersed in their adventures right along with them and really enjoyed their flirty banter and insane chemistry. Their romance may have been a whirlwind, but they sure packed a lot into a few days, and when you know you know. The way that man set about to get the girl will melt your heart and have you swooning well past the end.
What’s aboard the cruise:
🛳️ All the vacation vibes
🩷Family feels
🛟 Hidden identities
🛳️ They both fall fast and hard
🩷 Spicy
🛟 Rom com
🛳️ Witty banter
🩷 Chemistry & tension
Kathleen Allen has a new fan in me and I'm looking forward to seeing what's next in the Pinnacle Series!
I had so much fun cruising along with Andi and Delaney. I felt immersed in their adventures right along with them and really enjoyed their flirty banter and insane chemistry. Their romance may have been a whirlwind, but they sure packed a lot into a few days, and when you know you know. The way that man set about to get the girl will melt your heart and have you swooning well past the end.
What’s aboard the cruise:
🛳️ All the vacation vibes
🩷Family feels
🛟 Hidden identities
🛳️ They both fall fast and hard
🩷 Spicy
🛟 Rom com
🛳️ Witty banter
🩷 Chemistry & tension
Kathleen Allen has a new fan in me and I'm looking forward to seeing what's next in the Pinnacle Series!
March 23, 2025
Cruise Crush by Kathleen Allen is an exciting and heartfelt romance that sweeps you away with its playful banter, steamy moments, and deeper emotional layers. Andrew and Delaney’s chemistry is undeniable, and their flirtatious interactions make for a captivating read. Allen’s ability to bring scenes to life with rich details and realistic emotions adds depth to the story, making the characters feel genuinely relatable. The element of hidden identities adds intrigue, keeping the reader engaged as the romance unfolds. Overall, Cruise Crush is a delightful mix of passion, humor, and heart—a must-read for romance fans!
April 5, 2025
This is book 1 in Allen's new The Pinnacle series. A wonderful start to a new series, I am absolutely hooked on this read. Our main characters are Andrew, a hot workaholic on the brink of becoming CEO of Pinnacle Cruise Lines, and Delaney, a witty former Olympic gymnast turned travel writer. Thier initial meeting is hilarious, and it only gets better and better. Allen delivers the best balance of sweet, heat and laughs. Along with the best balance is a smooth flowing and well written storyline with characters that you will relate and gravitate to. I loved this read and I am so excited for more!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 13, 2025
This sweet starting story begins with a former good mentalist gymnast turned blogger, DJ, and a newly appointed CEO, AJ, boarding a cruise ship for their own professions and through a chance meeting involving spilled shrimp cocktail becomes a sultry spicy and somewhat comical story. Can you fall in love in a week? Is it lasting or will the turbulent high seas drown the chance at love and happiness. A definite fun and sexy must read.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2025
This book started out so cute. DJ is a travel blogger hired to write a piece on the cruise ship she just embarked on for the week. She runs into a very handsome and mysterious man who just happens to be the CEO of the ship. Neither person knows who the other is as they start a sweet cruise crush!
Everything goes great until the miscommunication enters the chat. And it was HEAVY on the misunderstandings and lies of omissions. I was also put off by the corny nicknames and the instalove and hate.
This book wasn't for me.
Everything goes great until the miscommunication enters the chat. And it was HEAVY on the misunderstandings and lies of omissions. I was also put off by the corny nicknames and the instalove and hate.
This book wasn't for me.
September 13, 2025
There were things I really liked about this book, but the miscommunication over and over really overshadowed everything else. While these two were on a cruise and their timeline was fast, they repetitively were evasive to each other and never shared any real details about their real lives and I found that to be a total miss. Especially when I'm supposed to believe they fell in love in 5 days.
I will say that AJ was very doting and the dates he planned were very swoony, but AJ & DJ could both really benefit from some good communication.
I will say that AJ was very doting and the dates he planned were very swoony, but AJ & DJ could both really benefit from some good communication.
April 21, 2025
This is the first book in the Pinnacle series and I really enjoyed reading this book. It is a sweet and lighthearted romantic comedy. I loved the way the book was laid out so you could follow the whole cruise perfectly. The characters are great and lovingly written. I loved the chemistry between Delaney and Andrew.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Warrington Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2025
I was screaming and blushing from the tension, the banter, the swoon-worthiness! Kathleen Allen did not come to play, she really has written a masterpieve romance that every Ana Huang and Emily Henry fan would eat this book in one sitting! She provided us a ship, a millionaire who was incredibly beautiful, a travel blogger who was flawlessly cool, and enough hot tension to make every window on that cruise fog up. You can feel the spark—that euphoric, flirtatiously sharp, impossible-to-get-hold-of-kindle spark that makes you want to yell, "JUST KISS ALREADY!"—as soon as AJ and Delaney literally crash into one another.
.
The settings within the lines of this book were amazing, I really thought I am in holiday with the incredible descriptions and details of the settings, imagine golden sunsets, exquisite feasts, and times snatched in secret areas of the ship—the scene is incredibly magnificent. Every situation feels so realistic thanks to Kathleen Allen's writing that you can almost taste the cocktails and hear the waves. Also, the chemistry is emotionally charged in a way that makes your heart fly and hurt at the same time, without being sinfully addicting. Delaney is the type of woman you want to be best friends with, not just a heroine you support. AJ, clad in a clean white shirt, is a living, breathing example of gilded seduction.
.
Furthermore, there is the tension of their secret identities, which is a chef's kiss. Kathleen Allen keeps you on your toes the entire time, making every intriguing conversation and seized glance feel like a risky game you don't want to finish, even though you know the truth will eventually be revealed. And it's perfect, devastating, and dramatic when everything ultimately falls apart. In besides romance, this book offers you elegance, controversy, and the kind of heart-stopping moments that make you smile shamelessly.
.
Thus, Cruise Crush is the book you need if you enjoy romantic comedies that make you laugh, swoon, and possibly even scream into a pillow. It also feels like a holiday. It's dazzlingly romantic, unabashedly passionate, and elegantly luxurious. I'm completely addicted with Kathleen Allen's prose, and I need more books from her ASAP!
.
The settings within the lines of this book were amazing, I really thought I am in holiday with the incredible descriptions and details of the settings, imagine golden sunsets, exquisite feasts, and times snatched in secret areas of the ship—the scene is incredibly magnificent. Every situation feels so realistic thanks to Kathleen Allen's writing that you can almost taste the cocktails and hear the waves. Also, the chemistry is emotionally charged in a way that makes your heart fly and hurt at the same time, without being sinfully addicting. Delaney is the type of woman you want to be best friends with, not just a heroine you support. AJ, clad in a clean white shirt, is a living, breathing example of gilded seduction.
.
Furthermore, there is the tension of their secret identities, which is a chef's kiss. Kathleen Allen keeps you on your toes the entire time, making every intriguing conversation and seized glance feel like a risky game you don't want to finish, even though you know the truth will eventually be revealed. And it's perfect, devastating, and dramatic when everything ultimately falls apart. In besides romance, this book offers you elegance, controversy, and the kind of heart-stopping moments that make you smile shamelessly.
.
Thus, Cruise Crush is the book you need if you enjoy romantic comedies that make you laugh, swoon, and possibly even scream into a pillow. It also feels like a holiday. It's dazzlingly romantic, unabashedly passionate, and elegantly luxurious. I'm completely addicted with Kathleen Allen's prose, and I need more books from her ASAP!
June 30, 2025
I am terrified of cruises- and will never go on one! BUT, I enjoy living vicariously through these book characters enjoying their sea adventures!😀 and this book was just a good time! I laughed out loud multiple times at some of DJ’s inner thoughts and the main characters interactions and certainly swooned over AJ’s and all of his perfection! The growth and connection between our characters was undeniable from the beginning, but will they withstand the little pieces of information about themselves that they kept quiet about on this week aboard!? overall enjoyed their story and felt they were relatable which I love!
This felt like the perfect book to dive into this season with! The author definitely has a way of making you feel like your there with them-with her ability to set a scene with such detailed descriptions! Also- how cool would it be to get sent on neat adventures to review!! Anyways! Super enjoyed this fast fun summer read and do recommend you check it out for yourself!
This felt like the perfect book to dive into this season with! The author definitely has a way of making you feel like your there with them-with her ability to set a scene with such detailed descriptions! Also- how cool would it be to get sent on neat adventures to review!! Anyways! Super enjoyed this fast fun summer read and do recommend you check it out for yourself!
August 22, 2025
𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐡 𝐛𝐲 𝐊𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★★★★
𝗔𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘄!
This was such a fun story and the perfect book to bring on your next vacation! While I have never been on a cruise and the thought alone terrifies me, this book made them sound so fun and appealing.
AJ and DJ were such great characters with more depth than I was anticipating and I loved that! I enjoyed the way in which they initially met and how they began their friendship and quickly moved along to so much more. Their ability to keep their identities hidden was a bit far fetched but I was so invested in the characters and the outcome that it didn’t phase me too much.
I absolutely loved the setting on the boat and the places they stopped throughout the Caribbean. The adventures that they had, the ways they got to know each other, the chemistry, the sweet moments together and the delicious massage dates made it easy to fall in love with these two!
𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚:
Romantic Comedy
Hidden Identity
Millionaire CEO
Travel Blogger FMC
Undeniable Attraction
Caribbean Cruise Vacation
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★★★★
𝗔𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘄!
This was such a fun story and the perfect book to bring on your next vacation! While I have never been on a cruise and the thought alone terrifies me, this book made them sound so fun and appealing.
AJ and DJ were such great characters with more depth than I was anticipating and I loved that! I enjoyed the way in which they initially met and how they began their friendship and quickly moved along to so much more. Their ability to keep their identities hidden was a bit far fetched but I was so invested in the characters and the outcome that it didn’t phase me too much.
I absolutely loved the setting on the boat and the places they stopped throughout the Caribbean. The adventures that they had, the ways they got to know each other, the chemistry, the sweet moments together and the delicious massage dates made it easy to fall in love with these two!
𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚:
Romantic Comedy
Hidden Identity
Millionaire CEO
Travel Blogger FMC
Undeniable Attraction
Caribbean Cruise Vacation
September 1, 2025
3.5 stars.
The last 30% of this book was perfect, but unfortunately the first 70% was a bit of a let down. Some of the scenarios felt a bit cringe and I wasn't a huge fan of the added hashtags in the book.
The premise was great - the upcoming CEO of a cruise line and a former gymnastics Olympian have an unexpected encounter on board and choose not to talk about work with one another. A whirlwind romance transpires, but what happens when work takes over and they find out who each other are?
The book is about 200 pages, so it's a quick read. The book was not bad by any means, just not my cup of tea.
The last 30% of this book was perfect, but unfortunately the first 70% was a bit of a let down. Some of the scenarios felt a bit cringe and I wasn't a huge fan of the added hashtags in the book.
The premise was great - the upcoming CEO of a cruise line and a former gymnastics Olympian have an unexpected encounter on board and choose not to talk about work with one another. A whirlwind romance transpires, but what happens when work takes over and they find out who each other are?
The book is about 200 pages, so it's a quick read. The book was not bad by any means, just not my cup of tea.
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