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His Darling Freckles
Liam Parker has spent years trying to forget his best friend, Bianca Harrison. Once upon a time, she was his everything . . . until she suddenly gave up on their friendship, leaving him with a hole in his chest. He thought he would never see her again, until he feels the tingles of familiarity from someone on his college campus. His heart speeds up as he realizes it’s her, but he ignores it. She broke him, she left him behind . . . He hates her, doesn’t he?
Bianca Harrison has been tortured by thoughts of Liam Parker for years. Back then, he was everything young Bianca wanted. Her own Prince Charming, till he forgot about her—leaving their friendship in shambles. She thought pursuing her dreams would help her finally heal, that there was no way she would see him again. But no . . . He’s back, he’s different, and even though she hates it, she still loves him, just like she did all those years ago.
Bianca Harrison has been tortured by thoughts of Liam Parker for years. Back then, he was everything young Bianca wanted. Her own Prince Charming, till he forgot about her—leaving their friendship in shambles. She thought pursuing her dreams would help her finally heal, that there was no way she would see him again. But no . . . He’s back, he’s different, and even though she hates it, she still loves him, just like she did all those years ago.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is a good debut, and I hope Alecsa continues to write as I'll gladly pick up her next books.
But back to the one at hand: it's a cute, second-chance, friends-to-lovers college romance. I was smiling and giggling through it a lot. Liam is one of the most respectful main characters I've ever read, and at the same time, he's so real with his overthinking and constantly making sure Bianca is alright. They're just made for each other, and it's obvious from the very first pages of the book.
I loved that we get to experience both POVs here, and I honestly enjoyed them both. Bianca's thoughts hurt at times, but it's understandable given everything she’s been through—I'm still amazed she's so "together" and not breaking down every other second. And Liam's chapters are just the cherry on top of a very sweet chocolate cake; I think his made me smile a tad more, but honestly, who wouldn't?
Fair warning, though: this does contain a few triggering situations, and they're listed at the beginning for your attention. And I think we can all agree that Josh sucks (iykyk!).
Thank you to Alecsa and Literary Rising for the ARC!
But back to the one at hand: it's a cute, second-chance, friends-to-lovers college romance. I was smiling and giggling through it a lot. Liam is one of the most respectful main characters I've ever read, and at the same time, he's so real with his overthinking and constantly making sure Bianca is alright. They're just made for each other, and it's obvious from the very first pages of the book.
I loved that we get to experience both POVs here, and I honestly enjoyed them both. Bianca's thoughts hurt at times, but it's understandable given everything she’s been through—I'm still amazed she's so "together" and not breaking down every other second. And Liam's chapters are just the cherry on top of a very sweet chocolate cake; I think his made me smile a tad more, but honestly, who wouldn't?
Fair warning, though: this does contain a few triggering situations, and they're listed at the beginning for your attention. And I think we can all agree that Josh sucks (iykyk!).
Thank you to Alecsa and Literary Rising for the ARC!
Want to read
July 22, 2025The name is kinda weird/cringe but I saw a excerpt that was super cute so …
January 15, 2026
⭐️3.5
~ ARC review ~
This was so stinkin’ cute!🥹
I’ve been so so excited for this book for ages🤭 first of all thank you so much to Alecsa for the ARC copy of the book, you’re the best and I’m so proud of you🥰
Liam and Bianca were so adorable! I was sad and happy at the same time seeing how they went from best friends to strangers to (finally😆🥹) lovers💗
Their story was so cute and sweet!
I loved how Liam was always checking in on her and being there for her🫂 One of my favorite moments was definitely when she colored in his tattoos! And I loved how they had tattoos for each other🥹 so so sweet!🤭
tropes:
💜 no-spice college romance
🌟best friends to strangers to lovers
💜sweet, tattooed MMC
🌟grumpy x sunshine
💜she colors his tattoos
🌟”I’ve got you.”
💜PTSD rep
🌟mutual pinning
💜dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language (but there is one use of the word bada$$)
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
Because no matter what, he’ll always be my best friend, and I love him. It’s been five years and every beat of my heart still belongs to Liam freaking Parker.
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
“Bianca, you look gorgeous. You’ve outshone everyone on this beach, sun included. You’re beautiful. When aren’t you?”
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
“I actually think you look more handsome with your tattoos.”
“You think I’m handsome?”
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
“I wanted to ask if I could color in your tattoos.”
“Color them how?”
“With markers?”
“Go get ’em, love.”
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
“Just so you know, you’re never getting rid of me. We’re stuck together, Ms. Harrison,”
“You know, I think I’ll be good with that, Mr. Parker.”
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
“I promise, Liam Parker. You always have been—and always will be—my forever.”
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
~ ARC review ~
This was so stinkin’ cute!🥹
I’ve been so so excited for this book for ages🤭 first of all thank you so much to Alecsa for the ARC copy of the book, you’re the best and I’m so proud of you🥰
Liam and Bianca were so adorable! I was sad and happy at the same time seeing how they went from best friends to strangers to (finally😆🥹) lovers💗
Their story was so cute and sweet!
I loved how Liam was always checking in on her and being there for her🫂 One of my favorite moments was definitely when she colored in his tattoos! And I loved how they had tattoos for each other🥹 so so sweet!🤭
tropes:
💜 no-spice college romance
🌟best friends to strangers to lovers
💜sweet, tattooed MMC
🌟grumpy x sunshine
💜she colors his tattoos
🌟”I’ve got you.”
💜PTSD rep
🌟mutual pinning
💜dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language (but there is one use of the word bada$$)
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
Because no matter what, he’ll always be my best friend, and I love him. It’s been five years and every beat of my heart still belongs to Liam freaking Parker.
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
“Bianca, you look gorgeous. You’ve outshone everyone on this beach, sun included. You’re beautiful. When aren’t you?”
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
“I actually think you look more handsome with your tattoos.”
“You think I’m handsome?”
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
“I wanted to ask if I could color in your tattoos.”
“Color them how?”
“With markers?”
“Go get ’em, love.”
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
“Just so you know, you’re never getting rid of me. We’re stuck together, Ms. Harrison,”
“You know, I think I’ll be good with that, Mr. Parker.”
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
“I promise, Liam Parker. You always have been—and always will be—my forever.”
──── ✮ ──────── ✮ ──────── ✮ ────
January 11, 2026
Thank you to Alecsa and Literary Rising for the ARC!
This review contains spoilers!!!
This books was written by a young author and the storyline was very promising. There are elements to this book that i really loved. The ups and downs of a childhood friendship turning into more. The way the MMC shows his affection through consideration and actively keeping her in mind. I loved the element that the tattoos give to the book. Something that maybe could have been more highlighted. (For example what tattoo did her father have on his arm, it’s briefly mentioned he has one and that’s it).
However I did feel like there is room for this author to grow. Sometimes the flow of the book gets disrupted.
It’s a story about two best friends and the girl has to move away. They try to stay friends but then have an argument and 5 years passes until they meet again.
When they meet again, there is a build up to the two main characters meeting at a gala and it’s interrupted when the POV changes to the MMC and sets time back to earlier in the day. There are also discrepancies in the story. The way the school is described in the beginning as a last choice but is then revealed to be her dream school. The MMC at one point tells her he knows that something happened in Philly and that that’s the reason why she wore so much makeup at first. There is no explanation given in the book.
The relationship between the mom and stepdad needed more build up. He is supposed to be your classic narcissistic abusive partner. But the pattern of lovebombing and masking in the beginning isn’t there. I hated the man from the beginning of the book but it was too obvious. The eventual blow up was too delayed and felt rushed.
We get an epilogue (I love a good epilogue) but i’m slightly confused. It’s two years later but the two main characters talk as if things just happened and they haven’t been in a relationship for two years. They still need to reassure each other that much at that point? In the book the FMC is taking baby steps to fight through PTSD, anxiety and trauma. In the epilogue she suddenly drives a car without the slightest hint of unease. I felt like the author wanted to end the story very positively but in doing so took away the realism of living with trauma.
All of these points aside, I got through this book in 2 days. I love the basics of this book and I really hope to see this author grow into her full potential.
This review contains spoilers!!!
This books was written by a young author and the storyline was very promising. There are elements to this book that i really loved. The ups and downs of a childhood friendship turning into more. The way the MMC shows his affection through consideration and actively keeping her in mind. I loved the element that the tattoos give to the book. Something that maybe could have been more highlighted. (For example what tattoo did her father have on his arm, it’s briefly mentioned he has one and that’s it).
However I did feel like there is room for this author to grow. Sometimes the flow of the book gets disrupted.
It’s a story about two best friends and the girl has to move away. They try to stay friends but then have an argument and 5 years passes until they meet again.
When they meet again, there is a build up to the two main characters meeting at a gala and it’s interrupted when the POV changes to the MMC and sets time back to earlier in the day. There are also discrepancies in the story. The way the school is described in the beginning as a last choice but is then revealed to be her dream school. The MMC at one point tells her he knows that something happened in Philly and that that’s the reason why she wore so much makeup at first. There is no explanation given in the book.
The relationship between the mom and stepdad needed more build up. He is supposed to be your classic narcissistic abusive partner. But the pattern of lovebombing and masking in the beginning isn’t there. I hated the man from the beginning of the book but it was too obvious. The eventual blow up was too delayed and felt rushed.
We get an epilogue (I love a good epilogue) but i’m slightly confused. It’s two years later but the two main characters talk as if things just happened and they haven’t been in a relationship for two years. They still need to reassure each other that much at that point? In the book the FMC is taking baby steps to fight through PTSD, anxiety and trauma. In the epilogue she suddenly drives a car without the slightest hint of unease. I felt like the author wanted to end the story very positively but in doing so took away the realism of living with trauma.
All of these points aside, I got through this book in 2 days. I love the basics of this book and I really hope to see this author grow into her full potential.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2026
Oh my goodness what a sweet and swoony story. This is a slow burn, childhood friends to lovers romance with YEARNING. It’s almost a second chance romance since their friendship ended in a painful split years ago and now they are finding their way back to each other. The caretaking in this is just the absolute sweetest!! He knows her so well even after all those years and only thinks of how to protect her and comfort her in what triggers her panic attacks 🥺 If you looked up “down bad for her” this is the MMC that would show up. She is a sweet and broken high school grad navigating the challenge of he next season of life mixed in with her mom’s new boyfriend, and how this blended family that brings pain and trauma of its own. Big feels and a first kiss that really feels earned 🙌🏻 He is a tattoo artist and covered in his own art. The sweet connection between his art and the impact she has held over his life is super swoony. He would do anything for her. You get a broody to sunshine for him. And a broken to healing for her.
You get a bit of a miscommunication trope between them for how their friendship ended and the pains of not knowing how each other feels to transition into friends again and more. Thankfully, as a reader, you get both POVs which brings all the sweet and painful emotions.
I LOVED this book and could not put it down. I would definitely recommend it to anyone and would read it again. There was one tiny plot piece I didn’t get answers on but it was super minor.
✨ Down Bad for Her
✨ Yearning Longing
✨ Childhood Friends to Lovers
✨ MMC with Tattoos
✨ He gives her a Tattoo
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Comforting and Caretaking
✨ Anxiety Rep
✨ Trauma Rep
✨ Stargazing
🫑🫑 no spice | closed door (kisses, steamy kisses only, with some brief talk about sx but no scene between the characters
Light language Da*
4.75⭐️ for a wonderfully great time!! And the only reason not wasn’t true 5 star was a minor missing plot point
You get a bit of a miscommunication trope between them for how their friendship ended and the pains of not knowing how each other feels to transition into friends again and more. Thankfully, as a reader, you get both POVs which brings all the sweet and painful emotions.
I LOVED this book and could not put it down. I would definitely recommend it to anyone and would read it again. There was one tiny plot piece I didn’t get answers on but it was super minor.
✨ Down Bad for Her
✨ Yearning Longing
✨ Childhood Friends to Lovers
✨ MMC with Tattoos
✨ He gives her a Tattoo
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Comforting and Caretaking
✨ Anxiety Rep
✨ Trauma Rep
✨ Stargazing
🫑🫑 no spice | closed door (kisses, steamy kisses only, with some brief talk about sx but no scene between the characters
Light language Da*
4.75⭐️ for a wonderfully great time!! And the only reason not wasn’t true 5 star was a minor missing plot point
January 17, 2026
Absolutely beautiful story of Childhood Best friends eventually finding their way back to one another!
Thank you to Alecsa and Literary Rising for the ARC!
I have been sitting on writing a review for this book for a few days because I have been struggling to find the right words to truly express how much I loved this book. (I still won't likely find the right words lol)
This book was so emotionally inspiring because we got to see Childhood Best Friends find each other again and their navigation through friends to eventually lovers! Despite the years that have passed between them this story showed that when it's the right person, there will be a way to find each other again.
As someone who personally struggles with anxiety and panic attacks, I thought that the author portrayed these topics and other mental health issues such as PTSD beautifully and really made me feel seen and believe that once you find the right person they will be there to help navigate some of the worst times. Bianca our FMC shares these struggles and Liam helps her through them in the most supportive and amazing way. I resonate with the way Bianca wants to be independent and sometimes hides just how much she is struggling from those she cares about, but I loved how Liam knew that she needed someone even when she tries not to need anyone.
I loved the way our characters go from childhood best friends to strangers to sorta friends to lovers. Very complex but beautifully them. There was so many cute quotes that had me swooning! The grumpy sunshine aspect is also adorable. This book is no spice and has dual pov that will have you falling in love with these characters and their love story. And Liam's nickname for Bianca is just perfection!!
I loved this book and I always appreciate a good playlist to go alongside the story. I can't wait to see what else this author writes!
Thank you to Alecsa and Literary Rising for the ARC!
I have been sitting on writing a review for this book for a few days because I have been struggling to find the right words to truly express how much I loved this book. (I still won't likely find the right words lol)
This book was so emotionally inspiring because we got to see Childhood Best Friends find each other again and their navigation through friends to eventually lovers! Despite the years that have passed between them this story showed that when it's the right person, there will be a way to find each other again.
As someone who personally struggles with anxiety and panic attacks, I thought that the author portrayed these topics and other mental health issues such as PTSD beautifully and really made me feel seen and believe that once you find the right person they will be there to help navigate some of the worst times. Bianca our FMC shares these struggles and Liam helps her through them in the most supportive and amazing way. I resonate with the way Bianca wants to be independent and sometimes hides just how much she is struggling from those she cares about, but I loved how Liam knew that she needed someone even when she tries not to need anyone.
I loved the way our characters go from childhood best friends to strangers to sorta friends to lovers. Very complex but beautifully them. There was so many cute quotes that had me swooning! The grumpy sunshine aspect is also adorable. This book is no spice and has dual pov that will have you falling in love with these characters and their love story. And Liam's nickname for Bianca is just perfection!!
I loved this book and I always appreciate a good playlist to go alongside the story. I can't wait to see what else this author writes!
January 11, 2026
ARC REVIEW.
Okay so this book is so mushy gushy gooey lovey cute. (that sounds weird when i type it but it’s about as sweet as a candy store in the best way possible)
I loved Liam’s inner monologue about his conflicting feelings on what he should do or feel about Bianca come back into his life, i totally didn’t almost cry (i absolutely did cry) when he talks about how he’s known since they met that she’s been the one for him. I feel like this author did an amazing job capturing how the anxiety and fear of making a mistake was eating at liam in some moments. I love how he was slowly opening up to being friends with his roommate as well!
and Bianca? god shes been through so much, my heart broke for her. I love her. I love the relationship she has with her mom, even when things are tense you can still feel the love she has for her. and her longing for liam? god it hurt. but seeing how willing he was to take things on her time, it was heartwarming. Her best friend is truly great too! you can really feel the love they have for each other even with the distance.
I know this is long. I’m sorry! I was hoping there’d be more info with Liam’s coworkers/ work in general or a snippet in the chapters towards the end, it kinda felt like he left for summer break and then didn’t work again? idk
(also fuck josh)
This isn’t my typical type of book to read but i will 100% be reading future books by this author!
Okay so this book is so mushy gushy gooey lovey cute. (that sounds weird when i type it but it’s about as sweet as a candy store in the best way possible)
I loved Liam’s inner monologue about his conflicting feelings on what he should do or feel about Bianca come back into his life, i totally didn’t almost cry (i absolutely did cry) when he talks about how he’s known since they met that she’s been the one for him. I feel like this author did an amazing job capturing how the anxiety and fear of making a mistake was eating at liam in some moments. I love how he was slowly opening up to being friends with his roommate as well!
and Bianca? god shes been through so much, my heart broke for her. I love her. I love the relationship she has with her mom, even when things are tense you can still feel the love she has for her. and her longing for liam? god it hurt. but seeing how willing he was to take things on her time, it was heartwarming. Her best friend is truly great too! you can really feel the love they have for each other even with the distance.
I know this is long. I’m sorry! I was hoping there’d be more info with Liam’s coworkers/ work in general or a snippet in the chapters towards the end, it kinda felt like he left for summer break and then didn’t work again? idk
(also fuck josh)
This isn’t my typical type of book to read but i will 100% be reading future books by this author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2026
ARC read~~
4.5 stars because this app refuses to give us half stars 🥰
This was a very promising debut that got me hooked within the first few chapters! I thought at first it was immature how Bianca and Liam’s friendship ended, but then realized they were like 13 so it made sense after I found that out 😭and I knew this was gonna be a slow burn, but this was a SLOOOW BURN. Personally I can handle slow burns where it doesn’t burn until book 3, but I suffered in the best way waiting for these to just talk it out and kiss 😭😭
fair warning though, I could not put this book down after the first few chapters. I rotted in bed all day, responsibilities be damned just so I could read this 💕
A few of my reactions recorded throughout my reading experience (minor spoilers but not really):
~~~
This is suchh a cute debut novel already
“You’ll always be my forever, Freckles.”
~~~
I wish I had a guy best friend like Liam 😪 #needthat
~~~
I HATE JOSH. I HATE HIM. I WANT TO CHOKE THIS GUY. OH MY GOD.
~~~
I LAUGHED OUT LOUD STOPP BAHAHAJA I LOVE CHASE AND LIAM’S INNER VOICE LMAOOOOOOOO
~~~
and many more crashouts throughout the book 🥰 loved the epilogue though, because I always love me a food epilogue. Though I must say I didn’t expect Bianca to be able to drive and do it so effortlessly? Good for her ig lmao
4.5 stars because this app refuses to give us half stars 🥰
This was a very promising debut that got me hooked within the first few chapters! I thought at first it was immature how Bianca and Liam’s friendship ended, but then realized they were like 13 so it made sense after I found that out 😭and I knew this was gonna be a slow burn, but this was a SLOOOW BURN. Personally I can handle slow burns where it doesn’t burn until book 3, but I suffered in the best way waiting for these to just talk it out and kiss 😭😭
fair warning though, I could not put this book down after the first few chapters. I rotted in bed all day, responsibilities be damned just so I could read this 💕
A few of my reactions recorded throughout my reading experience (minor spoilers but not really):
~~~
This is suchh a cute debut novel already
“You’ll always be my forever, Freckles.”
~~~
I wish I had a guy best friend like Liam 😪 #needthat
~~~
I HATE JOSH. I HATE HIM. I WANT TO CHOKE THIS GUY. OH MY GOD.
~~~
I LAUGHED OUT LOUD STOPP BAHAHAJA I LOVE CHASE AND LIAM’S INNER VOICE LMAOOOOOOOO
~~~
and many more crashouts throughout the book 🥰 loved the epilogue though, because I always love me a food epilogue. Though I must say I didn’t expect Bianca to be able to drive and do it so effortlessly? Good for her ig lmao
January 15, 2026
I could not put this book down! I literally finished it in one sitting.
It was a sweet story with lovable characters and a great storyline!
I loved the dynamics between the characters. Not only Bianca and Liam but also their friends and parents. The way they interacted and spoke with each other felt so real. They came to life on the page. I wish the book was longer so I could spend more time with them.
I hated the villain with a burning passion and was very happy to see the way his story ended. It was the ending I was hoping for.
I loved the flashbacks, giving us deeper looks into the characters and their childhoods. It gave you a deeper look into their history and friendship.
Don’t even get me started on the plot. Even though it’s a romance, it touched on deep topics and explored deep themes giving voice to topics people tend to shy away from.
If you’re interested in reading this book, DO IT! It’s absolutely worth it. By the end you’ll have fallen in love with all the characters.
I’d like to thank the amazing author Alecsa Kayser for allowing me the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book. It was everything I was hoping for and more!
I cannot wait to see what you do with the other characters in this series (Chase and Jamie???)
It was a sweet story with lovable characters and a great storyline!
I loved the dynamics between the characters. Not only Bianca and Liam but also their friends and parents. The way they interacted and spoke with each other felt so real. They came to life on the page. I wish the book was longer so I could spend more time with them.
I hated the villain with a burning passion and was very happy to see the way his story ended. It was the ending I was hoping for.
I loved the flashbacks, giving us deeper looks into the characters and their childhoods. It gave you a deeper look into their history and friendship.
Don’t even get me started on the plot. Even though it’s a romance, it touched on deep topics and explored deep themes giving voice to topics people tend to shy away from.
If you’re interested in reading this book, DO IT! It’s absolutely worth it. By the end you’ll have fallen in love with all the characters.
I’d like to thank the amazing author Alecsa Kayser for allowing me the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book. It was everything I was hoping for and more!
I cannot wait to see what you do with the other characters in this series (Chase and Jamie???)
January 11, 2026
This is an ARC review:
For a debut novel this was pretty good.
I liked the storyline and some parts of the story were great. I loved how respectful Liam was and how he showed his affection towards her and I actually did love the nickname.
However there were some parts that did not work for me. There were some flow issues in my opinion, like when the next chapter has a big time overlap with the previous one or some transitions between scenes in the same chapter. I also had some issues with the credibility sometimes, for example the college situation. She was rejected from 9 colleges but got accepted in the one where she applied for funsies but you find out later in the story that it was her dream school and she got accepted in an advanced program.
Or that in de epilogue, which is only two years later, she is driving without any issues despite just learning how to drive and her previous trauma.
But overall a very good first novel, I look forward to read more of this author as she grows.
For a debut novel this was pretty good.
I liked the storyline and some parts of the story were great. I loved how respectful Liam was and how he showed his affection towards her and I actually did love the nickname.
However there were some parts that did not work for me. There were some flow issues in my opinion, like when the next chapter has a big time overlap with the previous one or some transitions between scenes in the same chapter. I also had some issues with the credibility sometimes, for example the college situation. She was rejected from 9 colleges but got accepted in the one where she applied for funsies but you find out later in the story that it was her dream school and she got accepted in an advanced program.
Or that in de epilogue, which is only two years later, she is driving without any issues despite just learning how to drive and her previous trauma.
But overall a very good first novel, I look forward to read more of this author as she grows.
January 19, 2026
I've been excited to read this book ever since I saw the first post about it. I want to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to be an ARC reader.
This book is the kind of book you have no bad things to say about. All my expectations were met and even ran over. This book was completely perfect.
I loved how they didn't INSTANTLY become best friends again. They acknowledged their emotions and worked with them. They were both hurt until they communicated and accepted that it was impossible to reconnect.
The maturity they both showed was chef kiss. Accepting they were both at fault and not pinning the guilt only on one person.
All through the book I was either smiling like an idiot or on the verge of crying. The emotions were very clearly well written and I felt every single one of them.
I adore this book and I wish I could've given it more starts than 5. It deserves the whole universe.
I'm left with such a beautiful feeling and I hope I will have the chance to read more from the author because this was absolutely delicious! a masterpiece!
This book is the kind of book you have no bad things to say about. All my expectations were met and even ran over. This book was completely perfect.
I loved how they didn't INSTANTLY become best friends again. They acknowledged their emotions and worked with them. They were both hurt until they communicated and accepted that it was impossible to reconnect.
The maturity they both showed was chef kiss. Accepting they were both at fault and not pinning the guilt only on one person.
All through the book I was either smiling like an idiot or on the verge of crying. The emotions were very clearly well written and I felt every single one of them.
I adore this book and I wish I could've given it more starts than 5. It deserves the whole universe.
I'm left with such a beautiful feeling and I hope I will have the chance to read more from the author because this was absolutely delicious! a masterpiece!
January 23, 2026
𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘: 𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑫𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑭𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒌𝒍𝒆𝒔
4 STARS: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
release date: February 9th, 2026
Alecsa's debut novel was a really cute, spice free love story! Liam was so sweet and respectful, i loved reading about him and how gentle he is with Bianca and what a sweet caretaker he is. it was fun to see them go from friends to strangers to lovers - that man was down BAD for her, we LOVE yearning! one of my favorite little moments was when Bianca colors in his tattoos because that's totally something I'd do if I jad a tatted man lol 😌 really loved having both POVs in this one because it made the minor miscommunication trope easier to get through.
overall this book was a sweet breath of fresh air and im so grateful i got the chance to read it! would definitely recommend, especially to those looking for a sweet, emotional filled, spice free love story with yearning, a sweet mmc and some steamy kisses!
thank you so much to the author and Literary Rising for the eARC! 😊
4 STARS: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
release date: February 9th, 2026
Alecsa's debut novel was a really cute, spice free love story! Liam was so sweet and respectful, i loved reading about him and how gentle he is with Bianca and what a sweet caretaker he is. it was fun to see them go from friends to strangers to lovers - that man was down BAD for her, we LOVE yearning! one of my favorite little moments was when Bianca colors in his tattoos because that's totally something I'd do if I jad a tatted man lol 😌 really loved having both POVs in this one because it made the minor miscommunication trope easier to get through.
overall this book was a sweet breath of fresh air and im so grateful i got the chance to read it! would definitely recommend, especially to those looking for a sweet, emotional filled, spice free love story with yearning, a sweet mmc and some steamy kisses!
thank you so much to the author and Literary Rising for the eARC! 😊
January 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
Thank you to Alecsa and Literary Rising for the ARC!
While this book wasn’t a standout for me in terms of writing, I still genuinely enjoyed the experience. There were moments where the writing felt a bit uneven and could have been stronger, which did pull me out of the story at times.
That said, the characters were absolutely the heart of this book. I really liked them, connected with them, and found myself invested in where the story was going. And Liam—he was undeniably swoon-worthy! His charm and presence added so much to the story and definitely kept me turning pages.
While this one didn’t fully hit the mark for me, it showed enough promise that I’d definitely be interested in reading more from Alecsa Keyser in the future. His Darling Freckles releases February 9th, and I think many readers will find something to enjoy here.
Thank you to Alecsa and Literary Rising for the ARC!
While this book wasn’t a standout for me in terms of writing, I still genuinely enjoyed the experience. There were moments where the writing felt a bit uneven and could have been stronger, which did pull me out of the story at times.
That said, the characters were absolutely the heart of this book. I really liked them, connected with them, and found myself invested in where the story was going. And Liam—he was undeniably swoon-worthy! His charm and presence added so much to the story and definitely kept me turning pages.
While this one didn’t fully hit the mark for me, it showed enough promise that I’d definitely be interested in reading more from Alecsa Keyser in the future. His Darling Freckles releases February 9th, and I think many readers will find something to enjoy here.
January 21, 2026
This was my first book of the year and omg I loved every bit of it. I'm always a sucker for dual pov books and the fact that this was a slow burn as well made it even better. For this to be a debut novel for this author, she did a fantastic job. The way trauma was mentioned was very tasteful, Alecsa didn't romanticize it or make it be Bianca's whole personality but made it shape who she is today. And Liam Parker, the sweet boy you are. I loved his character so much. His love language was amazing and how he treats Bianca is so sweet. I love their dynamic. Overall, the storyline was smooth, going from point A to point B with ease. It was an easy read. I'm really excited to read other books by this author!
January 17, 2026
3.75
This book was cute. The friendship turns strangers to lovers was such a bubbly vibe. I also loved Biancas friendship with her new BFF not changing as well as her Mom's friendship with Liams mother. This author tackles some rather deep topics which was great.
Things I didn't care for was moms boyfriend but key with tye plot devices chosen. Also the miscommunication on why the friendship ends to begin with and how they dwell on it after reuniting. The author did well with what she was trying to accomplish but I just personally wanted a few more things fleshed out.
Thank you to Literary Rising and thr author for an eARC of this novel.
This book was cute. The friendship turns strangers to lovers was such a bubbly vibe. I also loved Biancas friendship with her new BFF not changing as well as her Mom's friendship with Liams mother. This author tackles some rather deep topics which was great.
Things I didn't care for was moms boyfriend but key with tye plot devices chosen. Also the miscommunication on why the friendship ends to begin with and how they dwell on it after reuniting. The author did well with what she was trying to accomplish but I just personally wanted a few more things fleshed out.
Thank you to Literary Rising and thr author for an eARC of this novel.
January 12, 2026
I was lucky enough to get a ARC read. I enjoyed the book, it was a good second chance romance. It’s my first non spicy book in ages and it was good. I loved the characters and their story!
They did spend a large portion of the book solving their issues and it did take them a while to communicate. But other. That that is was a really fun read. I enjoyed the book. I loved that Liam was so down bad for Bianca. I feel like his nickname for her was cute. 🥰
They did spend a large portion of the book solving their issues and it did take them a while to communicate. But other. That that is was a really fun read. I enjoyed the book. I loved that Liam was so down bad for Bianca. I feel like his nickname for her was cute. 🥰
January 14, 2026
You know when a book makes me cry from the very first page I instantly have to give it five stars.
Where do I even begin this book is what I hoped it would be and more. It made me cry , kick my feet and smile all the way through. This book took me on a emotional roller coaster and the story was so easy to follow also I loved the characters stories.
Alecsa thank you so much for letting me be an Arc reader for this book.
Everyone needs to read this book when it comes out on the 9th February
Where do I even begin this book is what I hoped it would be and more. It made me cry , kick my feet and smile all the way through. This book took me on a emotional roller coaster and the story was so easy to follow also I loved the characters stories.
Alecsa thank you so much for letting me be an Arc reader for this book.
Everyone needs to read this book when it comes out on the 9th February
January 15, 2026
ARC review: ❤️❤️ ❤️
Slow start (which goes along with the slow burn) and certain sections of the internal monologues feel repetitive in the beginning, but as the story builds and the characters come into themselves, they grow on you. The things that border on cringey or cliche early on become very heartwarming as the characters grow. A very endearing story with lovable characters that builds to a very satisfying ending.
Slow start (which goes along with the slow burn) and certain sections of the internal monologues feel repetitive in the beginning, but as the story builds and the characters come into themselves, they grow on you. The things that border on cringey or cliche early on become very heartwarming as the characters grow. A very endearing story with lovable characters that builds to a very satisfying ending.
January 17, 2026
~ARC review~
First up thank you Alecsa Kayser for the ARC!
This book was really good for a debut novel. I loved that this book had a lot of backstory.
Bianca and Liam are so perfect for each other.
I’m looking forward to read what Alecsa Kayser writes in the future!
And I really hope that there comes a book for Jamie and Chase!!!
First up thank you Alecsa Kayser for the ARC!
This book was really good for a debut novel. I loved that this book had a lot of backstory.
Bianca and Liam are so perfect for each other.
I’m looking forward to read what Alecsa Kayser writes in the future!
And I really hope that there comes a book for Jamie and Chase!!!
January 12, 2026
3.5, rounded up. ARC review, all thoughts are my own. This is a great first book with a good storyline! I admit it wasn’t perfect and sometimes I thought it was a little cringey but not enough where I didn’t enjoy it. I will be looking forward to more from this author
January 22, 2026
This was a super cute romance about best friends who drift apart and how fate pushes them back together.
Not heartstoppingly amazing but still a very good read if you’re looking for something sweet and cozy.
Not heartstoppingly amazing but still a very good read if you’re looking for something sweet and cozy.
August 16, 2025
Beta Read 🌟
Can't wait to finally review it after it is published!!
Can't wait to finally review it after it is published!!
January 21, 2026
I Got this book as an ARC and it did not disappoint!!! The relationship between Bianca and her mom was so tear jerking! And the way the author dealt with Bianca’s PTSD and trauma was really well done and written with care! If you want a sweet friends to lovers closed door romance get this book!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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