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Rock Bottom Love #3
Maybe This Once
Not yet published
Expected 10 Feb 26Two people end up with more feelings than they bargained for after pursuing a summer fling, in this small-town, opposites-attract romance from Sophie Sullivan.
Charlotte “Charlie” Ashford has worked hard to become her own person. Tired of living in the shadow of her famous parents, she gladly left behind a life of glitz and glamour to pursue her true passion: becoming a counselor. However, when a viral video upends Charlie’s plans, she wonders if the real key to discovering herself is through her late father.
Grayson Keller has finally found his footing. He’s settled in one place, surrounded by family, and secure in his business. By his third summer as owner, Get Lost Lodge is showing a steady profit and seeing its fair share of repeat visitors. Whatever happens, Grayson is perfectly content with his quiet life and careful heart. That is, until he meets Charlie, who he can’t seem to get out of his head.
On the surface, Charlie and Grayson seem to have nothing in common more than a growing attraction that neither of them can fight. Trusting each other isn’t easy. They’ve both been hurt before, and they’re not looking for anything serious. The solution is easy: they’ll date, have some fun, and walk away unscathed. Right? Or, maybe this once, they can see past the hurt to what, or who, is on the other side waiting for them.
Charlotte “Charlie” Ashford has worked hard to become her own person. Tired of living in the shadow of her famous parents, she gladly left behind a life of glitz and glamour to pursue her true passion: becoming a counselor. However, when a viral video upends Charlie’s plans, she wonders if the real key to discovering herself is through her late father.
Grayson Keller has finally found his footing. He’s settled in one place, surrounded by family, and secure in his business. By his third summer as owner, Get Lost Lodge is showing a steady profit and seeing its fair share of repeat visitors. Whatever happens, Grayson is perfectly content with his quiet life and careful heart. That is, until he meets Charlie, who he can’t seem to get out of his head.
On the surface, Charlie and Grayson seem to have nothing in common more than a growing attraction that neither of them can fight. Trusting each other isn’t easy. They’ve both been hurt before, and they’re not looking for anything serious. The solution is easy: they’ll date, have some fun, and walk away unscathed. Right? Or, maybe this once, they can see past the hurt to what, or who, is on the other side waiting for them.
336 pages, Paperback
Expected publication February 10, 2026
17844 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Sullivan
17 books1,401 followersSOPHIE SULLIVAN is a Canadian author as well as a cookie-eating, Diet Pepsi-drinking, Disney enthusiast. She's written ten books for St. Martin's Press, including Ten Rules for Faking It, Can't Help Falling in Love, and the Rock Bottom Love series. She loves reading and writing romance in almost equal measure. She's had plenty of practice writing happily ever after as her alter ego, Jody Holford.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 305 reviews
December 31, 2025
This is a really cute small town romance! It is a feel good, cozy read. It made me feel hopeful, lighthearted and emotional. This book also made me laugh! It is a medium paced read that is character driven. It follows the female main character named Charlie and the male main character named Grayson. They end up running into each other at the Get Lost lodge. Both of them are not wanting a relationship because they both had been hurt before. However, the chemistry between these two is undeniable.
This book has mild spice to it and comes with a satisfying conclusion. I found this book to be like a warm cup of tea, along with a warm hug. Even though I did find this book to be very predictable, I still enjoyed reading it. This book gave me the movie, “Sweet Home Alabama” vibes! I give this novel 3.5 stars out of 5.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Sophie Sullivan and St. Martin's Press for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is expected to be released on 2/10/2026!
This book has mild spice to it and comes with a satisfying conclusion. I found this book to be like a warm cup of tea, along with a warm hug. Even though I did find this book to be very predictable, I still enjoyed reading it. This book gave me the movie, “Sweet Home Alabama” vibes! I give this novel 3.5 stars out of 5.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Sophie Sullivan and St. Martin's Press for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is expected to be released on 2/10/2026!
November 6, 2025
If you are into opposites attract and low angst stories, this is a good choice. The setting is great, and the characters are wholesome and fun.
Finding a love interest when you are hiding from the world can certainly take your mind off your troubles. This story brings so much to the table with a sweet romance that is unexpected for the characters.
I love this male lead in this book. He is sweet and caring, plus he deserves someone who is his equal. He seems to have found that in Charlie. But he knows she is hiding something and is not on the level with him. Understanding that this is supposed to be fun for the summer and nothing serious, he let it go.
But drama is a part of Charlie’s life, and hiding that from Grayson is not really working well. Between the non-dates and time spent together, feelings are growing, and time is running out.
I had some big feelings about her family drama and her mother’s actions. Her step-sisters and mother were horrible, and I hated that she let Momma back in so easily. I felt the secrets were compounded by not sharing them with Grayson, especially as they grew closer. Hiding things and choices are hurtful in the long run, and that was unnecessary for the plot.
The lovely part of this story is that it leans in on found family quite a bit, and the supportive secondary characters made a big impact. They make up some of the other books in the series.
Maybe This Once is quite touchy-feelie in places, but it does offer a closed-door romance. It is a sweet, cozy romance that builds slowly. The opposites attract, and a dual POV storyline is an added plus.
Sullivan is a go-to when it comes to small-town, low angst romance stories. She always delivers enjoyable romance stories.
~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/maybe-this-o...
Finding a love interest when you are hiding from the world can certainly take your mind off your troubles. This story brings so much to the table with a sweet romance that is unexpected for the characters.
I love this male lead in this book. He is sweet and caring, plus he deserves someone who is his equal. He seems to have found that in Charlie. But he knows she is hiding something and is not on the level with him. Understanding that this is supposed to be fun for the summer and nothing serious, he let it go.
But drama is a part of Charlie’s life, and hiding that from Grayson is not really working well. Between the non-dates and time spent together, feelings are growing, and time is running out.
I had some big feelings about her family drama and her mother’s actions. Her step-sisters and mother were horrible, and I hated that she let Momma back in so easily. I felt the secrets were compounded by not sharing them with Grayson, especially as they grew closer. Hiding things and choices are hurtful in the long run, and that was unnecessary for the plot.
The lovely part of this story is that it leans in on found family quite a bit, and the supportive secondary characters made a big impact. They make up some of the other books in the series.
Maybe This Once is quite touchy-feelie in places, but it does offer a closed-door romance. It is a sweet, cozy romance that builds slowly. The opposites attract, and a dual POV storyline is an added plus.
Sullivan is a go-to when it comes to small-town, low angst romance stories. She always delivers enjoyable romance stories.
~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/maybe-this-o...
September 24, 2025
Author Sophie Sullivan takes readers back to the remote Get Lost Lodge for book 3 of the Rock Bottom Love series with Maybe This Once. No worries if you haven't read the two previous books as everything you need to know to enjoy this one is woven within the story of this small-town, opposites attract romance. Sullivan excels at low angst, happy ever after romance, and this one lives up to the hype. Settle in for an evening of romance with a high cute factor and a side of humor.
Charlie runs from her life in California to spend a summer with her great uncle at Get Lost Lodge after a heartbreaking betrayal and a video gone viral. She needs time to lick her wounds, revamp, and decide how to move forward with her life. She didn't plan on meeting a hunk like Grayson, the owner of the lodge, and a man with baggage of his own. Grayson is still recovering from his ex-wife's betrayal when Charlie arrives and blows him out of the water. He has no interest in anything long term since his divorce and vows never to trust another woman with his heart. However, there's nothing wrong with a short-term friendship with benefits, right? A summer fling? Both Charlie and Grayson find out just how hard it is to keep real feelings and emotions out of the equation when one acts on attraction. Will either of them be able to keep their heart intact when it's over?
Author Sophie Sullivan has rendered another sweet, heart touching romance in Maybe This Once with lovable, intelligent characters leading productive lives while dealing with issues not of their own making. Trust is a big issue for both characters, and it was nice to see how they worked through that roadblock without a lot of extra drama thrown in for effect. Dual points of view allow readers inside both characters' heads as the story unfolds. Found and extended family continue to be themes the author explores as well as the dynamics surrounding quirky characters often found in small towns. Maybe This Once is small-town romance at its best. Highly recommended to fans of opposites attract romance stories with low angst.
Special thanks to St. Martins Griffin for a complimentary arc of this title for review. Opinions expressed are my own. This title is scheduled for release Feb. 10, 2026. This review is available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
Charlie runs from her life in California to spend a summer with her great uncle at Get Lost Lodge after a heartbreaking betrayal and a video gone viral. She needs time to lick her wounds, revamp, and decide how to move forward with her life. She didn't plan on meeting a hunk like Grayson, the owner of the lodge, and a man with baggage of his own. Grayson is still recovering from his ex-wife's betrayal when Charlie arrives and blows him out of the water. He has no interest in anything long term since his divorce and vows never to trust another woman with his heart. However, there's nothing wrong with a short-term friendship with benefits, right? A summer fling? Both Charlie and Grayson find out just how hard it is to keep real feelings and emotions out of the equation when one acts on attraction. Will either of them be able to keep their heart intact when it's over?
Author Sophie Sullivan has rendered another sweet, heart touching romance in Maybe This Once with lovable, intelligent characters leading productive lives while dealing with issues not of their own making. Trust is a big issue for both characters, and it was nice to see how they worked through that roadblock without a lot of extra drama thrown in for effect. Dual points of view allow readers inside both characters' heads as the story unfolds. Found and extended family continue to be themes the author explores as well as the dynamics surrounding quirky characters often found in small towns. Maybe This Once is small-town romance at its best. Highly recommended to fans of opposites attract romance stories with low angst.
Special thanks to St. Martins Griffin for a complimentary arc of this title for review. Opinions expressed are my own. This title is scheduled for release Feb. 10, 2026. This review is available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
September 13, 2025
thank you to netgalley and the publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
i'll admit this was cute! it just didn't stick out to me and i didnt 'feel' like i normally do in some of these books.
i'll admit this was cute! it just didn't stick out to me and i didnt 'feel' like i normally do in some of these books.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I grabbed this one in the first place because I really loved the cover. It's a nice little romance. I like the golden retriever mmc. I'm not big on spice but I can tolerate it if it's well-written. This was not that. It's okay though, it's not easy to write that stuff!
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the arc!📚
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the arc!📚
August 20, 2025
4/5 Stars
Charlie leaves her life in California after her soon to be step-sisters spread a highly edited video of her. She decides to hideout with some extended family in a small town. Upon her arrival she runs into mountain man Grayson, the owner of Get Lost Lodge. There is an instant attraction between them. Grayson finally feels settled surrounded by those he loves. He never expected someone like Charlie. Someone who inexplicably feels him in. They soon learn that avoiding the attraction is no use. Charlie and Grayson do the last thing they expected they could after being betrayed. They have to trust each other.
Maybe This Once is the sweet romance book you read when you want to wind down after a tiring day. Although this is the third book in the series, it does a solid job at world building. I personally think it can be enjoyed as a standalone. From reading the book description you know what to expect from the characters and plot. There is a closed door spice scene, and the story climax is short lived. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a low risk opposites-attract read.
A warm thanks to Sophie Sullivan, St. Martin’s Griffin, and NetGalley for this ARC! 🫶🏻
Charlie leaves her life in California after her soon to be step-sisters spread a highly edited video of her. She decides to hideout with some extended family in a small town. Upon her arrival she runs into mountain man Grayson, the owner of Get Lost Lodge. There is an instant attraction between them. Grayson finally feels settled surrounded by those he loves. He never expected someone like Charlie. Someone who inexplicably feels him in. They soon learn that avoiding the attraction is no use. Charlie and Grayson do the last thing they expected they could after being betrayed. They have to trust each other.
Maybe This Once is the sweet romance book you read when you want to wind down after a tiring day. Although this is the third book in the series, it does a solid job at world building. I personally think it can be enjoyed as a standalone. From reading the book description you know what to expect from the characters and plot. There is a closed door spice scene, and the story climax is short lived. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a low risk opposites-attract read.
A warm thanks to Sophie Sullivan, St. Martin’s Griffin, and NetGalley for this ARC! 🫶🏻
August 12, 2025
ARC review
Publication date Feb 10 2026
"Maybe This Once" by Sophie Sullivan is the 3rd book in the "Rock Bottom Love" series but it can be read as a standalone.
I received an e-ARC from St. Martin's Press (via Netgalley).
Opinions from this review are completely my own.
What you can expect:
- small town romance
- opposites-attract
- found family
- closed door romance (fade to black scenes).
Charlie lived in the shadow of her famous parents and after a video of her having a meltdown went viral, she goes to a small town where her great uncle lives.
Grayson is the owner of the Get Lost Lodge and lives a quite life after his complicated divorce.
This is a sweet and cozy story about two people that do not have much in common, but they feel attraction from the start.
I liked the small town atmosphere and the found family aspect.
Charlie managed to make new friends fast and became part of the Keller family.
I am glad that this has a dual POV, even if the narration is in 3rd person (I prefer 1st person).
The romance part develops nicely and there is not much drama.
Publication date Feb 10 2026
"Maybe This Once" by Sophie Sullivan is the 3rd book in the "Rock Bottom Love" series but it can be read as a standalone.
I received an e-ARC from St. Martin's Press (via Netgalley).
Opinions from this review are completely my own.
What you can expect:
- small town romance
- opposites-attract
- found family
- closed door romance (fade to black scenes).
Charlie lived in the shadow of her famous parents and after a video of her having a meltdown went viral, she goes to a small town where her great uncle lives.
Grayson is the owner of the Get Lost Lodge and lives a quite life after his complicated divorce.
This is a sweet and cozy story about two people that do not have much in common, but they feel attraction from the start.
I liked the small town atmosphere and the found family aspect.
Charlie managed to make new friends fast and became part of the Keller family.
I am glad that this has a dual POV, even if the narration is in 3rd person (I prefer 1st person).
The romance part develops nicely and there is not much drama.
September 4, 2025
a sweet, clean, small town romance. I binged this in a few short hours. ya appropriate. found family theme.
August 19, 2025
This book is a romantic story of finding love in the most unexpected places. That even when faced with chaos and hard situations, love can be found. Second chance romance.
It is a cozy love story. The characters are diverse and easy to fall in love with.
The narrative was easy to follow. Although there were some stressful situations throughout, the characters were able to make it through.
A fun, loving, full circle romance with great family ties and relationships.
*canadian author*
It is a cozy love story. The characters are diverse and easy to fall in love with.
The narrative was easy to follow. Although there were some stressful situations throughout, the characters were able to make it through.
A fun, loving, full circle romance with great family ties and relationships.
*canadian author*
August 9, 2025
This is a solid 5 ⭐️! It’s a book that grabs you from the first chapter and holds you to the end.
December 10, 2025
This was the perfect ending to such a sweet series! I love a book by Sophie Sullivan, and the Kellers have been such a treat to get to know! In this last one we got to see everyone again, and I loved every second! The town of Smile is also such a special place. They really loved everyone with their whole hearts, they take care of anyone and everyone that comes through. Seeing not only the Kellers seamlessly taking in Charlie, but the whole town was so sweet.
Charlie and Gray were especially sweet. They were really two people who were so unsure about so many things. Charlie was running from her life, looking for a place to reset. And Grayson was still convinced he wasn’t enough, for himself, for anyone really. Then the two of them finding each other, and finding such a safe place to land in the other was so perfect. They were SO SOFT. And I loved seeing them find a home in each other!
I can’t wait for her next book in her Seattle Series! And whatever’s after that! I know all her books make my heart happy and I will always be here to read them!!
Thanks to SMP for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
Charlie and Gray were especially sweet. They were really two people who were so unsure about so many things. Charlie was running from her life, looking for a place to reset. And Grayson was still convinced he wasn’t enough, for himself, for anyone really. Then the two of them finding each other, and finding such a safe place to land in the other was so perfect. They were SO SOFT. And I loved seeing them find a home in each other!
I can’t wait for her next book in her Seattle Series! And whatever’s after that! I know all her books make my heart happy and I will always be here to read them!!
Thanks to SMP for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
January 22, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, St Martins Press and Sophie Sullivan for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was cute and an easy read. It is book #3 in the series and I didn’t read the first two. While it’s always nice to get the full background I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything big.
The story centers around Charlie and Grayson. They run into each other and have a brief interaction and clear attraction but part ways only to find themselves together at Grayson resort which Charlie is staying at.
This is small town, found family, family drama, celebrity, dating with an expiration date.
It was a quick, easy read and enjoyable but something about it just didn’t hit as hard as I expected it to. The writing style left me a little distant from the characters.
This was cute and an easy read. It is book #3 in the series and I didn’t read the first two. While it’s always nice to get the full background I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything big.
The story centers around Charlie and Grayson. They run into each other and have a brief interaction and clear attraction but part ways only to find themselves together at Grayson resort which Charlie is staying at.
This is small town, found family, family drama, celebrity, dating with an expiration date.
It was a quick, easy read and enjoyable but something about it just didn’t hit as hard as I expected it to. The writing style left me a little distant from the characters.
October 9, 2025
thank you netgalley + publisher for this arc read, in exchange for an honest review :)
ughhhhhh this was absolutely precious and heartwarming. you get me a romance based in michigan + i’m toast.
i absolutely adored the way this found family trope was handled. the way charlie connected with the last of her fathers family and found a space of her own was deeply emotional. i couldn’t help but hopelessly root for gray :’)
i do believe i need to read the previous two books in this set 🤪
ughhhhhh this was absolutely precious and heartwarming. you get me a romance based in michigan + i’m toast.
i absolutely adored the way this found family trope was handled. the way charlie connected with the last of her fathers family and found a space of her own was deeply emotional. i couldn’t help but hopelessly root for gray :’)
i do believe i need to read the previous two books in this set 🤪
October 6, 2025
Once I received this copy, I went back and read the rest in the series. This was a fun one full of reasons to never say never. Grayson and Charlie make a pact for the summer which is perfect for a summer fling. Of course their fling turns into someone more; Will they be able to beat the obstacles and take a chance. Now I have read two series of Sullivan's, and have added her to my must read authors.
November 9, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
This story is very readable, great setting, likable and well-written characters, and good pacing. A fantastic read for relaxing and trusting the author to take you through a safe emotional journey. Some better editing/fact checking is needed (Uber did not operate in LA until 2012, making the dates in the story not line up., saying historical England doesn't really mean anything and isn't specific to a time period).
This is a slow-burning, sweet romance with themes of found family, healthy family dynamics, and showing how two people can learn to be vulnerable and trust again. I think the author is able to do what others struggle with in writing an entertaining story that keeps me coming back, while also writing scenes about healing that one can relate to without sounding preachy or like a recycling of basic-level conversations.
This story is very readable, great setting, likable and well-written characters, and good pacing. A fantastic read for relaxing and trusting the author to take you through a safe emotional journey. Some better editing/fact checking is needed (Uber did not operate in LA until 2012, making the dates in the story not line up., saying historical England doesn't really mean anything and isn't specific to a time period).
This is a slow-burning, sweet romance with themes of found family, healthy family dynamics, and showing how two people can learn to be vulnerable and trust again. I think the author is able to do what others struggle with in writing an entertaining story that keeps me coming back, while also writing scenes about healing that one can relate to without sounding preachy or like a recycling of basic-level conversations.
September 19, 2025
Out of all the romance series I have read, my absolute favorites are the ones set in small towns. There is something so cozy about the close-knit communities, familiar faces, and slower pace that makes these stories feel extra special. While I enjoy books set in bigger cities too, there is just something about the charm and little nuances of small-town life that always pulls me in. Because of that, I had a strong feeling I would really enjoy this book, and I am happy to say I was right.
I was a little nervous going in since this is the third book in an existing series that I had not read yet. I worried I might feel lost or miss important backstory. Thankfully, that was not the case at all. This book worked perfectly as a standalone, and it hooked me from the very beginning. The writing drew me in, and I liked that many of the questions I had while reading were answered as the story went along. It made me feel like I was discovering everything right alongside the characters.
All in all, I really liked this book. This is a slight spoiler, but I do wish we had gotten more details about what happened to her dad. That part of the story left me curious and wanting to know more. I would also absolutely love to see a bonus epilogue for this one someday. I think it would be a great way to revisit these characters and see where life has taken them.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
I was a little nervous going in since this is the third book in an existing series that I had not read yet. I worried I might feel lost or miss important backstory. Thankfully, that was not the case at all. This book worked perfectly as a standalone, and it hooked me from the very beginning. The writing drew me in, and I liked that many of the questions I had while reading were answered as the story went along. It made me feel like I was discovering everything right alongside the characters.
All in all, I really liked this book. This is a slight spoiler, but I do wish we had gotten more details about what happened to her dad. That part of the story left me curious and wanting to know more. I would also absolutely love to see a bonus epilogue for this one someday. I think it would be a great way to revisit these characters and see where life has taken them.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
January 11, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Maybe This Once by Sophie Sullivan is a charming, small-town romance that completely won me over with its heart and warmth.
What I loved most were the lovable, mature characters and how well they communicated with each other. Watching Charlie and Grayson navigate their feelings felt refreshing and realistic; both were emotionally aware, respectful, and genuinely understanding of one another. The small-town vibes added an extra layer of coziness that made the story even more enjoyable.
The short chapters and simple writing style made this an incredibly easy and fast read. It’s straightforward, easy to follow, and perfect if you’re looking for something light, comforting, and cute. While there’s little to no spice, the moments we do get are sensual, tender, and full of emotion, which fit the story beautifully.
My only downside was that the book is written in third person, which isn’t my personal preference, but that’s entirely subjective and didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Maybe This Once releases on February 10, 2026, and is a lovely choice for fans of sweet, small-town romances.
Maybe This Once by Sophie Sullivan is a charming, small-town romance that completely won me over with its heart and warmth.
What I loved most were the lovable, mature characters and how well they communicated with each other. Watching Charlie and Grayson navigate their feelings felt refreshing and realistic; both were emotionally aware, respectful, and genuinely understanding of one another. The small-town vibes added an extra layer of coziness that made the story even more enjoyable.
The short chapters and simple writing style made this an incredibly easy and fast read. It’s straightforward, easy to follow, and perfect if you’re looking for something light, comforting, and cute. While there’s little to no spice, the moments we do get are sensual, tender, and full of emotion, which fit the story beautifully.
My only downside was that the book is written in third person, which isn’t my personal preference, but that’s entirely subjective and didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Maybe This Once releases on February 10, 2026, and is a lovely choice for fans of sweet, small-town romances.
January 31, 2026
Thank you to Net Galley for allowing me to ARC read his novel. Full of second chances we have golden retriever Gray, a divorcee, who has moved back to his small hometown in Michigan and currently running a lodge with his family and Charlie, a therapist with famous parents (although dad has passed), who lost her job and has fled from California due to an unfortunate viral video released by her evil soon-to-be stepsisters to stay with her dad's brother who she barely knows. A semblance of Cinderella vibes without all the cleaning, a fairy godmother or quirky mice. Despite their instant attraction to each other, both Gray and Charlie are hesitant to pursue a deep relationship. Gray because of his feelings of being a failure for getting divorced and not being able to give Charlie what she deserves and Charlie because she knows she's only there temporarily and is hiding the real reason she's there. A cozy, romantic closed door romance full of sweet gestures and a found sense of belonging that any contemporary romance reader is sure to enjoy.
Tropes:
second chance/small town romance
found family
HEA
Tropes:
second chance/small town romance
found family
HEA
February 2, 2026
Maybe This Once by Sophie Sullivan was exactly the kind of romance I expected going in, and honestly, that helped. The beginning was slow. Like, slower than Sophie’s usual pacing, and the first half had me lowkey frustrated and side-eyeing my Kindle more than once.
BUT. Once I pushed past that midpoint? I flew through the rest. Suddenly I was fully invested because the characters are just so dang likable. I cared about them, I wanted them to win, and I was absolutely screaming at Charlie to just tell Gray the truth already. The miscommunication trope was visible from a million miles away and I was yelling OPEN YOUR MOUTH AND SPEAK the entire time. And when it all inevitably came crashing down? I felt so validated because… I TOLD YOU THIS WOULD HAPPEN.
Overall, this was a really fun, cozy closed-door romance with Sophie’s signature warmth and charm. Even with the slow start and predictable miscommunication, her writing just works for me every time.
BUT. Once I pushed past that midpoint? I flew through the rest. Suddenly I was fully invested because the characters are just so dang likable. I cared about them, I wanted them to win, and I was absolutely screaming at Charlie to just tell Gray the truth already. The miscommunication trope was visible from a million miles away and I was yelling OPEN YOUR MOUTH AND SPEAK the entire time. And when it all inevitably came crashing down? I felt so validated because… I TOLD YOU THIS WOULD HAPPEN.
Overall, this was a really fun, cozy closed-door romance with Sophie’s signature warmth and charm. Even with the slow start and predictable miscommunication, her writing just works for me every time.
September 27, 2025
Found Family / She’s got a secret / Small Town Island
If you are looking for a book that fills your heart with joy and your body with warmth, this is it. This book was the perfect way back to Smile and all the characters in it. Ollie, I love ya, but you’ve got to work on your secret keeping. What Jodi does well is she interweaves all her characters in the story. Their stories don’t end when their books do. My favourite examples were the Dad scenes with Ollie and the girls coming for Charlie. The dance scene at the end of the book had me balling. I love these two characters so much. Jodi knows exactly how to write a feel good story with loveable characters and a deep meaning. I will miss these characters and the stories they brought to the light. My favourite part of the book are the small pop culture references. Like Lainey’s bracelet company that boomed for Taylor Swift concerts, the Costco hot dog references, and so many more.
If you are looking for a book that fills your heart with joy and your body with warmth, this is it. This book was the perfect way back to Smile and all the characters in it. Ollie, I love ya, but you’ve got to work on your secret keeping. What Jodi does well is she interweaves all her characters in the story. Their stories don’t end when their books do. My favourite examples were the Dad scenes with Ollie and the girls coming for Charlie. The dance scene at the end of the book had me balling. I love these two characters so much. Jodi knows exactly how to write a feel good story with loveable characters and a deep meaning. I will miss these characters and the stories they brought to the light. My favourite part of the book are the small pop culture references. Like Lainey’s bracelet company that boomed for Taylor Swift concerts, the Costco hot dog references, and so many more.
October 9, 2025
Picture this. . . A beautiful cabin retreat in a quaint and small town where you can unplug and recharge after having your heart broken. . . & be comforted by the smoking hot lodge keeper 😉🔥 "Maybe This Once" is the story about insta attraction between Charlie & Grayson, who are both nursing broken hearts and learning who they are on their own again. The chemistry between the pair is instant and they agree to a fun, no strings attached fling for the summer.
I absolutely loved the dynamic between these two, the honest conversations they learned to have with each other were so relatable and realistic. I just wanted to give Grayson & Charlie both a hug. This novel also includes some meddling family & forced proximity which provided some comic relief at times.
Thank you St. Martins for the ARC!
I absolutely loved the dynamic between these two, the honest conversations they learned to have with each other were so relatable and realistic. I just wanted to give Grayson & Charlie both a hug. This novel also includes some meddling family & forced proximity which provided some comic relief at times.
Thank you St. Martins for the ARC!
September 28, 2025
Random run ins and the cozy-ness of a summer camp is the back drop of Charlie’s and Grays story!
Charlie is trying to find her footing after life derailed and she finds herself in a new place meeting a great uncle she never knew. Her first day in this new place she has an embarrassing run in with Gray, who is also trying to find his footing. They chalk the run in into once in a lifetime, so imagine their surprise when they are face to face and learn they will be working together.
A friendship blooms between these two and you can’t help but get sucked into their whirlwind romance once things start to turn into more! I felt at home with this story because of the amazing setting and hilarious characters.
Such a fun and romantic read!
Charlie is trying to find her footing after life derailed and she finds herself in a new place meeting a great uncle she never knew. Her first day in this new place she has an embarrassing run in with Gray, who is also trying to find his footing. They chalk the run in into once in a lifetime, so imagine their surprise when they are face to face and learn they will be working together.
A friendship blooms between these two and you can’t help but get sucked into their whirlwind romance once things start to turn into more! I felt at home with this story because of the amazing setting and hilarious characters.
Such a fun and romantic read!
October 1, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Sophie Sullivan, and St. Martin's Press for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
This was a cute romance. I would have been more invested if I had read the rest of the books in the series. I would highly recommend doing that. Some things confused me. I would have given it a higher rating but there were some things I did love. I loved the found family vibes. I liked the characters though I wish there was more depth. I found Charlie and Grayson frustrating characters due to some of their choices. I will definitely pick up another book from Sophie Sullivan.
3.5 stars
This was a cute romance. I would have been more invested if I had read the rest of the books in the series. I would highly recommend doing that. Some things confused me. I would have given it a higher rating but there were some things I did love. I loved the found family vibes. I liked the characters though I wish there was more depth. I found Charlie and Grayson frustrating characters due to some of their choices. I will definitely pick up another book from Sophie Sullivan.
February 1, 2026
Book two was cute, but this was perfect! I couldn't put this down. I loved the complexity of the characters' backstories while still somehow keeping this cozy romance. I feel like Sophie Sullivan is great at balancing the emotional trauma with just the right side of romance and tension.
My favorite part of this one was actually, surprisingly, not the romance (even though that was great!). It was Ollie, and seeing the interactions they all have centered around her. I adored the scene after Charlie talks with her and how she interacts with Levi, it was so powerful to read, and got me really in my feels!
I am so happy I got to continue this series and snag a copy of this from Sophie and NetGalley! Highly recommend!
My favorite part of this one was actually, surprisingly, not the romance (even though that was great!). It was Ollie, and seeing the interactions they all have centered around her. I adored the scene after Charlie talks with her and how she interacts with Levi, it was so powerful to read, and got me really in my feels!
I am so happy I got to continue this series and snag a copy of this from Sophie and NetGalley! Highly recommend!
September 16, 2025
An easy, likeable read for those who are fans of found family.
The book follows Charlie, daughter of a deceased rockstar. Her mom then remarries a man with two “evil” daughters (very Cinderella-esque lol) and suddenly producers want to make a reality show of her mom’s life. Wanting nothing to do with it, Charlie escapes to Get Lost Lodge to connect with her Uncle whom she has never met before.
Personally, this story fell a little flat for me but I believe it does have potential. Thank you netgalley for an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
The book follows Charlie, daughter of a deceased rockstar. Her mom then remarries a man with two “evil” daughters (very Cinderella-esque lol) and suddenly producers want to make a reality show of her mom’s life. Wanting nothing to do with it, Charlie escapes to Get Lost Lodge to connect with her Uncle whom she has never met before.
Personally, this story fell a little flat for me but I believe it does have potential. Thank you netgalley for an advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2026
Maybe This Once is the kind of romance back that squeezes my heart and gives me butterflies in my stomach! Charlie and Grayson were such an endearing couple, their growing feelings so obvious and beautiful, but the walls they’d put up threatened to get between them. It was a wonderful moment went those walls tumbled down. I’ve loved all the books in this heartwarming, small town series. I will miss my visits to the town of Smile, the Get Lost Lodge, and all of the wonderful people who live there. I received an advance reader copy of this book.
August 17, 2025
3,5⭐️
I read this as a standalone since I didn’t know that there is more books before that, but I thought it was fine, we get enough informations. I enjoyed this story, Charlie and Grayson meet-cute is nice. The attraction is already there. They do get together a bit fast, and after there’s problems which made them reevaluate everything. But it’s also a source of growth, which I liked.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book.
I read this as a standalone since I didn’t know that there is more books before that, but I thought it was fine, we get enough informations. I enjoyed this story, Charlie and Grayson meet-cute is nice. The attraction is already there. They do get together a bit fast, and after there’s problems which made them reevaluate everything. But it’s also a source of growth, which I liked.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book.
September 18, 2025
ARC READ from NetGalley:
This book was cute!! I didn’t read the first two books in the series, but certainly didn’t feel left out at all. Not a super huge fan of the third act break up that happened but the story was very light hearted and easy to follow along with! I liked how invested the two main characters got within one another, it was actually really refreshing and made me happy reading. It was a cute read, but nothing extraordinary
This book was cute!! I didn’t read the first two books in the series, but certainly didn’t feel left out at all. Not a super huge fan of the third act break up that happened but the story was very light hearted and easy to follow along with! I liked how invested the two main characters got within one another, it was actually really refreshing and made me happy reading. It was a cute read, but nothing extraordinary
January 29, 2026
Maybe This Once was a cute romance but not one that will leave a big impact on me. The romance was believable and I enjoyed the setting and characters at the Get Lost Lodge. I don't have any bones to pick with this book; it was just an okay three stars for me. It publishes just in time for Valentine's Day if you are in the mood for a cozy read that is low on the spice meter.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advanced copy. Maybe This Once hits shelves on February 10, 2026.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advanced copy. Maybe This Once hits shelves on February 10, 2026.
December 17, 2025
Having read several sophie sullivan books, I can confidently say her characters don't disappoint. They are always dynamic, relatable, and real. While this might not have been my favorite plot, I did love getting to see more of new and old characters and the messages throughout this book.
NetGalley ARC
NetGalley ARC
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