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The Fitzgeralds #2
In Case You Didn't Know
I write steamy romance novels for a living. In secret. And only the two people closest to me in the world know the truth…
Until I bump into my best friend’s grumpy, gorgeous, tech‑billionaire older brother at an exclusive forbidden club.
Yes, I was only there for research. No, he doesn’t believe me.
And now Asher Fitzgerald’s looking at me like I’m not just his sister’s friend, but his next obsession.
When a leak in my apartment and a crisis in his company force us to spend time together in his small town, sparks turn into a blazing, no‑strings entanglement.
One that’s forbidden, secret, and completely addictive.
If my best friend finds out I’m sleeping with her brother, she’ll probably kill me. And if Asher finds out he’s the inspiration for my dangerously possessive book hero… he might just get there first.
The more nights we spend tangled together, the harder it is to imagine walking away.
But secrets have a way of coming out.
And when they do, loving him might be the best chapter of my life… but it could also be the one that breaks me.
If you love grumpy billionaires, best friend’s older brother tension, laugh-out-loud found family, and small town secrets that make every kiss dangerous, this standalone romance is for you…
Until I bump into my best friend’s grumpy, gorgeous, tech‑billionaire older brother at an exclusive forbidden club.
Yes, I was only there for research. No, he doesn’t believe me.
And now Asher Fitzgerald’s looking at me like I’m not just his sister’s friend, but his next obsession.
When a leak in my apartment and a crisis in his company force us to spend time together in his small town, sparks turn into a blazing, no‑strings entanglement.
One that’s forbidden, secret, and completely addictive.
If my best friend finds out I’m sleeping with her brother, she’ll probably kill me. And if Asher finds out he’s the inspiration for my dangerously possessive book hero… he might just get there first.
The more nights we spend tangled together, the harder it is to imagine walking away.
But secrets have a way of coming out.
And when they do, loving him might be the best chapter of my life… but it could also be the one that breaks me.
If you love grumpy billionaires, best friend’s older brother tension, laugh-out-loud found family, and small town secrets that make every kiss dangerous, this standalone romance is for you…
418 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2025
409 people are currently reading
431 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Elks
70 books2,218 followersCarrie Elks is an international bestselling author of traditionally-published and self-published novels. Her books are sweet yet sexy contemporary small town romance stories. You can find her in all these places:
Website:https://www.carrieelks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
October 27, 2025
Asher and Francie have entered the chat. These two were fun to get to know.
Francie is a romantasy author struggling to finish her book. Trying to find inspiration for certain scenes sets off the entire story with Asher. I love her sense of humor, imagination, quick wit, and how she doesn't want to be saved.
Asher is a genius, running his own security business. The man has built walls around his heart his whole life, and has the baggage to prove it. Till a certain someone worms her way in and he can't keep denying himself.
🔥 Tropes:
Childhood crush
Best friends older brother
Age gap
Small Town romance
Secret Relationship
Protective MMC
✍🏽 Lines I Liked:
Truth is, I'm a bit of a hermit. I'm more often at home interacting with characters I've made up in my head than with real life people.
I have no idea how Victorian women got anything done. No wonder they spent half their lives fainting.
It says 'I want you', not 'herrs my annual physical'. Or at least I hope it does.
But still, there's a weird tingling in my body. Like she still has a piece of me, which is way too Hallmark movie-esque for my tastes, but there it is.
This is more fun than watching a rerun of Friends.
Let's go educate our men on what happens when you try to outmaneuver women with a vat full of coffee and a grudge.
Francie is a romantasy author struggling to finish her book. Trying to find inspiration for certain scenes sets off the entire story with Asher. I love her sense of humor, imagination, quick wit, and how she doesn't want to be saved.
Asher is a genius, running his own security business. The man has built walls around his heart his whole life, and has the baggage to prove it. Till a certain someone worms her way in and he can't keep denying himself.
🔥 Tropes:
Childhood crush
Best friends older brother
Age gap
Small Town romance
Secret Relationship
Protective MMC
✍🏽 Lines I Liked:
Truth is, I'm a bit of a hermit. I'm more often at home interacting with characters I've made up in my head than with real life people.
I have no idea how Victorian women got anything done. No wonder they spent half their lives fainting.
It says 'I want you', not 'herrs my annual physical'. Or at least I hope it does.
But still, there's a weird tingling in my body. Like she still has a piece of me, which is way too Hallmark movie-esque for my tastes, but there it is.
This is more fun than watching a rerun of Friends.
Let's go educate our men on what happens when you try to outmaneuver women with a vat full of coffee and a grudge.
October 17, 2025
I adored this book! It’s the kind of sweet, emotional, and slightly spicy romance that just hits all the right notes. I couldn’t stop smiling while reading. Francie and Asher had incredible chemistry, that first encounter at the club? Absolute perfection. I loved the tension, the history, and the way their connection grew from sparks into something so heartfelt.
Asher is the dream kind of MMC, protective, a little broody, but with a soft spot that completely melted me. And Francie? I loved her independence, her drive, and how she refused to let anyone hold her back. Their dynamic was fun, flirty, and full of genuine warmth.
It’s got the perfect mix of family ties, humor, and romance, with a touch of heat that made it impossible to put down. I’m definitely diving into more from this author this story was such a treat. Thanks to Hambright PR for the gifted book.
Asher is the dream kind of MMC, protective, a little broody, but with a soft spot that completely melted me. And Francie? I loved her independence, her drive, and how she refused to let anyone hold her back. Their dynamic was fun, flirty, and full of genuine warmth.
It’s got the perfect mix of family ties, humor, and romance, with a touch of heat that made it impossible to put down. I’m definitely diving into more from this author this story was such a treat. Thanks to Hambright PR for the gifted book.
October 25, 2025
This book is so good! I got hooked from chapter two and couldn’t put it down. It has a secret relationship, best friend’s brother, age gap, and so much more.
Francie is an author who writes under a pen name because she wanted something for herself, something not connected to her siblings. Then there’s Asher — who has a savior complex and wants to protect everyone because no one ever protected him.
As someone with older brothers, I can absolutely relate to Francie and her brothers’ overprotectiveness, and I love how the author captured that dynamic. I also love how she wrote about Asher and Francie’s love story — it was so beautiful.
This is my first book by this author, and I can’t wait to read more of her works.
It’s a 4.5-star read, and I highly recommend it.
Thanks to the author and Hambright PR for this eARC.
Francie is an author who writes under a pen name because she wanted something for herself, something not connected to her siblings. Then there’s Asher — who has a savior complex and wants to protect everyone because no one ever protected him.
As someone with older brothers, I can absolutely relate to Francie and her brothers’ overprotectiveness, and I love how the author captured that dynamic. I also love how she wrote about Asher and Francie’s love story — it was so beautiful.
This is my first book by this author, and I can’t wait to read more of her works.
It’s a 4.5-star read, and I highly recommend it.
Thanks to the author and Hambright PR for this eARC.
October 24, 2025
This was a lovely book. I can always count on Carrie’s books to be solid, good romance reads!
I adored the plotline of Francie being a secret romance author and getting caught by best friend’s older brother, Asher, while she was doing research at a spicy club - he had no idea why she was there (nor she with his reasons for being there either) 😂😂 excellent start! I couldn’t wait to read more and see what happens.
I’ve been waiting for Francie’s book as we caught glimpses of her in the Salinger Brothers series before this shifted over to The Fitzgeralds. This didn’t disappoint!!
I love that she was this much younger sister to a bunch of protective older brothers and then once she gets involved with her best friend’s brother, there’s even more. Asher has a big protective chip on his shoulder and some past trauma he’s dealing with on top of it. So between the two of them with these issues plus the “we can’t/but we want to” push-pull, it’s such a fun dynamic.
This one had a bit more open-door spice than I’m used to from Carrie’s books but it fit into the story so well and had some very hot themes!
The main conflict in this between the MCs was really good and I enjoyed the plot point around this greatly, especially with Francie trying to break free of always being over-protected. I do think the conflict with the “bad guy(s)” (part of an underlying plot to do with Asher’s security work) resolved way too easily but that wasn’t necessarily a main focus of the book so I let it go. For me, it’s about the romance and this was a good one.
Great characters, warm romance, and a fun plot - what more do you need?
Definitely can recommend this and all of Carrie’s books. I think this is best enjoyed having read the Salinger Brothers series before but it’s not strictly necessary.
4/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
I adored the plotline of Francie being a secret romance author and getting caught by best friend’s older brother, Asher, while she was doing research at a spicy club - he had no idea why she was there (nor she with his reasons for being there either) 😂😂 excellent start! I couldn’t wait to read more and see what happens.
I’ve been waiting for Francie’s book as we caught glimpses of her in the Salinger Brothers series before this shifted over to The Fitzgeralds. This didn’t disappoint!!
I love that she was this much younger sister to a bunch of protective older brothers and then once she gets involved with her best friend’s brother, there’s even more. Asher has a big protective chip on his shoulder and some past trauma he’s dealing with on top of it. So between the two of them with these issues plus the “we can’t/but we want to” push-pull, it’s such a fun dynamic.
This one had a bit more open-door spice than I’m used to from Carrie’s books but it fit into the story so well and had some very hot themes!
The main conflict in this between the MCs was really good and I enjoyed the plot point around this greatly, especially with Francie trying to break free of always being over-protected. I do think the conflict with the “bad guy(s)” (part of an underlying plot to do with Asher’s security work) resolved way too easily but that wasn’t necessarily a main focus of the book so I let it go. For me, it’s about the romance and this was a good one.
Great characters, warm romance, and a fun plot - what more do you need?
Definitely can recommend this and all of Carrie’s books. I think this is best enjoyed having read the Salinger Brothers series before but it’s not strictly necessary.
4/5 ⭐️
I received an advance copy of the book and have left my honest, influence-free review
October 13, 2025
E-arc review
I loved this just as much of not more than book 1 in the Fitzgerald series.
Francie and Asher were so fun to read, and their chemistry was so fun to read. I laughed a lot during this book. Francie is an author, a tad fiesty, but no one knows about her job except her best friend autumn. Her publisher tells her she needs to write more spice, and her cousin Charlie suggests the sex club for inspiration.
Asher is a security genius of sorts, billionaire, and super serious. He notices Francie, who is his sisters best friend at the club, while he's upgrading their software. He says she needs protection, but she's having no part of being told what to do. She's an independent woman!!
There's spicy inspo thru a camera and some attempt at blackmail, but such a fun read, and I can wait to read more about this family!!
I loved this just as much of not more than book 1 in the Fitzgerald series.
Francie and Asher were so fun to read, and their chemistry was so fun to read. I laughed a lot during this book. Francie is an author, a tad fiesty, but no one knows about her job except her best friend autumn. Her publisher tells her she needs to write more spice, and her cousin Charlie suggests the sex club for inspiration.
Asher is a security genius of sorts, billionaire, and super serious. He notices Francie, who is his sisters best friend at the club, while he's upgrading their software. He says she needs protection, but she's having no part of being told what to do. She's an independent woman!!
There's spicy inspo thru a camera and some attempt at blackmail, but such a fun read, and I can wait to read more about this family!!
November 16, 2025
4.5 stars! All responsibilities were given up to keep reading this book 🙈
-Best Friend’s Billionaire Brother
-Forced Proximity (in a Lighthouse!)
-Forbidden Relationship
-Writer FMC
-Secret Identity
-Dual POV
-Age gap
-Spice
This entire book had me HOOKED- from page 1! Swoony, spicy, banter, drama- all the things and I ate it up!
HIGHLY recommend for any romance lovers!
-Best Friend’s Billionaire Brother
-Forced Proximity (in a Lighthouse!)
-Forbidden Relationship
-Writer FMC
-Secret Identity
-Dual POV
-Age gap
-Spice
This entire book had me HOOKED- from page 1! Swoony, spicy, banter, drama- all the things and I ate it up!
HIGHLY recommend for any romance lovers!
October 24, 2025
This was my first Carrie Elks book, and it surprised me. From the very first chapter, I was hooked by the chemistry, banter, and tension between Asher and the heroine. There’s just something irresistible about a grumpy, protective older brother falling for his sister’s best friend—and Carrie Elks delivers that trope to perfection.
The setup is both fun and deliciously forbidden: a secret romance author accidentally crossing paths with her best friend’s billionaire brother at a very unexpected place. What follows is a steamy, emotional, and surprisingly heartfelt story about love, trust, and taking risks even when it could blow up everything.
I really enjoyed how the book balanced humor, spice, and genuine vulnerability. Asher’s gruff exterior hides so much depth, and the way he slowly softens for her made my heart melt. I also loved the found family vibes, the small-town setting, and the exploration of creative passion—especially how writing played such a central role in her character’s journey.
It’s the perfect mix of flirty, steamy and emotional, with a few scenes that made me laugh out loud and others that tugged at my heart. I’ll definitely be reading more from Carrie Elks in the future—her writing style is witty, romantic, and completely addictive.
If you love grumpy x sunshine, best friend’s brother, or secret romance tropes, this one is a must-read!
Thank you Carrie Elks and Hambright PR for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
The setup is both fun and deliciously forbidden: a secret romance author accidentally crossing paths with her best friend’s billionaire brother at a very unexpected place. What follows is a steamy, emotional, and surprisingly heartfelt story about love, trust, and taking risks even when it could blow up everything.
I really enjoyed how the book balanced humor, spice, and genuine vulnerability. Asher’s gruff exterior hides so much depth, and the way he slowly softens for her made my heart melt. I also loved the found family vibes, the small-town setting, and the exploration of creative passion—especially how writing played such a central role in her character’s journey.
It’s the perfect mix of flirty, steamy and emotional, with a few scenes that made me laugh out loud and others that tugged at my heart. I’ll definitely be reading more from Carrie Elks in the future—her writing style is witty, romantic, and completely addictive.
If you love grumpy x sunshine, best friend’s brother, or secret romance tropes, this one is a must-read!
Thank you Carrie Elks and Hambright PR for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
October 27, 2025
A brilliant addition to the Fitzgerald's series.
I love the first one, but In Case You Didn't Know just took it up a notch further with the laughs, the awkwardness, sibling rivalry and the spice. It's always an added bonus when a book makes you laugh out loud. I love that this series is linked back to the Sallinger series too (Francie is a Sallinger)
Francie is an author, writing spicy books....the only catch is, her friends and family don't know! So when she bumps in to her friends brother when 'researching' her next book... it's a little awkward and hard to explain.
Francie and Asher have a spark from the get-go, and Asher plays the role of the protective MMC very well. As things heat up between the pair of them, it gets easier for Francie to write her new book for the publisher 🔥 - Asher proves to be some great inspiration.
Both have challenges to face in the story, both professionally and personally, with a number of complications for Asher and his business in particular as things get awkward with his business partner and old connections.
I love that we get to delve deeper into the Fitzgerald universe and am looking forward to the next book. If you haven't read them yet , read book 1 first, then jump straight into this one.
I love the first one, but In Case You Didn't Know just took it up a notch further with the laughs, the awkwardness, sibling rivalry and the spice. It's always an added bonus when a book makes you laugh out loud. I love that this series is linked back to the Sallinger series too (Francie is a Sallinger)
Francie is an author, writing spicy books....the only catch is, her friends and family don't know! So when she bumps in to her friends brother when 'researching' her next book... it's a little awkward and hard to explain.
Francie and Asher have a spark from the get-go, and Asher plays the role of the protective MMC very well. As things heat up between the pair of them, it gets easier for Francie to write her new book for the publisher 🔥 - Asher proves to be some great inspiration.
Both have challenges to face in the story, both professionally and personally, with a number of complications for Asher and his business in particular as things get awkward with his business partner and old connections.
I love that we get to delve deeper into the Fitzgerald universe and am looking forward to the next book. If you haven't read them yet , read book 1 first, then jump straight into this one.
November 1, 2025
✨ Thank you to Carrie Elks and Hambright PR for the eARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions are my own. ✨
What happens when a flooded apartment leads to an unexpected connection? 💕 In Case You Didn’t Know is a charming small-town romance filled with warmth, wit, and emotional depth. Francie Salinger’s life gets turned upside down when she’s forced to find temporary refuge — and it just so happens to be with Asher Fitzgerald, a successful but guarded man returning home after business troubles. What starts as a reluctant arrangement quickly turns into undeniable chemistry.
Carrie Elks delivers a heartfelt story about finding love in unexpected places and learning to trust again. Francie’s independence and Asher’s quiet strength make them a believable, balanced pair. The banter feels real, the attraction sizzles, and the cozy community adds that perfect small-town charm.
This one has perfect pacing — a mix of laughter, tenderness, and just the right amount of longing. Fans of small-town settings, slow-burn chemistry, and found-family moments will absolutely adore this story. 💖
#HPRInCaseYouDidntKnow #CarrieElks #HambrightPR #BookReview #Bookstagram #SmallTownRomance #SlowBurnRomance #FoundFamily #ForcedProximity #SecondChances #RomanceBooks #eARCReview #RomanceReaders #BookCommunity #bookish #BookLover #BookRecommendations #RomComReads #ReadersOfInstagram
What happens when a flooded apartment leads to an unexpected connection? 💕 In Case You Didn’t Know is a charming small-town romance filled with warmth, wit, and emotional depth. Francie Salinger’s life gets turned upside down when she’s forced to find temporary refuge — and it just so happens to be with Asher Fitzgerald, a successful but guarded man returning home after business troubles. What starts as a reluctant arrangement quickly turns into undeniable chemistry.
Carrie Elks delivers a heartfelt story about finding love in unexpected places and learning to trust again. Francie’s independence and Asher’s quiet strength make them a believable, balanced pair. The banter feels real, the attraction sizzles, and the cozy community adds that perfect small-town charm.
This one has perfect pacing — a mix of laughter, tenderness, and just the right amount of longing. Fans of small-town settings, slow-burn chemistry, and found-family moments will absolutely adore this story. 💖
#HPRInCaseYouDidntKnow #CarrieElks #HambrightPR #BookReview #Bookstagram #SmallTownRomance #SlowBurnRomance #FoundFamily #ForcedProximity #SecondChances #RomanceBooks #eARCReview #RomanceReaders #BookCommunity #bookish #BookLover #BookRecommendations #RomComReads #ReadersOfInstagram
October 27, 2025
I didn’t know I liked the best friends brother trope yet here we are 😂
“𝑰 𝒂𝒍𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒅,”
“𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒐? 𝑪𝒂𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒆 𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆?”
“𝑮𝒖𝒚 𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒊𝒓𝒍.”
“𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒖𝒚 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒍𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒈𝒐.”
This was my first read by Carrie Elks, and I really enjoyed this one! I was immediately interested when I saw the FMC was a romantasy writer and needed inspiration so she goes to a sex club which is where our MMC spots her. It was such a fun read, I loved the push pull between the characters in the beginning when they are trying to push away their feelings. Plus the banter, humor, side characters were great.. and the spice scenes were 🤌🏼 (chefs kiss).
Oh and don’t get me started on now loving sexy little glasses on men in romance books 🥵
✨ Bestfriends Older Brother
✨ Forbidden Romance
✨ Grumpy X Sunshine
✨ Romantasy Writer X Tech Billionaire
✨ Secret Relationship
✨ Found Family
Thank you to Carrie Elks and Hambright PR for the early copy!
“𝑰 𝒂𝒍𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒅,”
“𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒐? 𝑪𝒂𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒎𝒆 𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆?”
“𝑮𝒖𝒚 𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒊𝒓𝒍.”
“𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒖𝒚 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒍𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒈𝒐.”
This was my first read by Carrie Elks, and I really enjoyed this one! I was immediately interested when I saw the FMC was a romantasy writer and needed inspiration so she goes to a sex club which is where our MMC spots her. It was such a fun read, I loved the push pull between the characters in the beginning when they are trying to push away their feelings. Plus the banter, humor, side characters were great.. and the spice scenes were 🤌🏼 (chefs kiss).
Oh and don’t get me started on now loving sexy little glasses on men in romance books 🥵
✨ Bestfriends Older Brother
✨ Forbidden Romance
✨ Grumpy X Sunshine
✨ Romantasy Writer X Tech Billionaire
✨ Secret Relationship
✨ Found Family
Thank you to Carrie Elks and Hambright PR for the early copy!
November 5, 2025
This was such a cute read!! It was funny and charming and emotional and I couldn’t put it down. Francie and Asher have this great chemistry and banter! He is so protective right from the start and Francie is having none of it (poor Shaun!)
Francie writes steamy romance novels in secret. When she needs to do some research for a steamy scene, she ends up at an exclusive forbidden club…and runs into Asher, her BFF’s older brother - yeah it’s a little awkward!
She ends up having to stay with him and they try and avoid their feelings. I love how we get to see their relationship slowly grow and I also really liked the forbidden vibes between them.
I loved the secondary characters/siblings and the mystery surrounding Asher’s work. This is book 2 in the series but can be read as a standalone - but I highly recommend reading Carrie’s other books too!
✨ What To Expect:
💖 Romantic Comedy
🏡 Small Town
👨👧👦 Best Friend’s Brother
💰 Grumpy Billionaire
💋 She’s A Romance Author
🚨 Forced Proximity (in a Lighthouse!)
🚫 Forbidden Relationship
⚡ Off-the-Charts Chemistry
🎭 Secret Identity
🤝 Found Family
Francie writes steamy romance novels in secret. When she needs to do some research for a steamy scene, she ends up at an exclusive forbidden club…and runs into Asher, her BFF’s older brother - yeah it’s a little awkward!
She ends up having to stay with him and they try and avoid their feelings. I love how we get to see their relationship slowly grow and I also really liked the forbidden vibes between them.
I loved the secondary characters/siblings and the mystery surrounding Asher’s work. This is book 2 in the series but can be read as a standalone - but I highly recommend reading Carrie’s other books too!
✨ What To Expect:
💖 Romantic Comedy
🏡 Small Town
👨👧👦 Best Friend’s Brother
💰 Grumpy Billionaire
💋 She’s A Romance Author
🚨 Forced Proximity (in a Lighthouse!)
🚫 Forbidden Relationship
⚡ Off-the-Charts Chemistry
🎭 Secret Identity
🤝 Found Family
October 24, 2025
It’s official. I’m obsessed with the Fitzgerald family and I would like to petition to be part of their family group chat.
Carrie has a special ability to pace books perfectly. I’m enraptured from the moment I start them until I am hitting the back cover. She sews in the characters from the previous book FLAWLESSLY. I was so happy to be able to spend time with Sky and Hudson again plus meet more of the gang.
(Anyone else obsessed with Wyatt’s 👍🏼 or West’s killer sense of humor? Just me? I love them so much already)
Francie was the perfect balance to our Asher and I can’t help but to say I loved their story. How it started 😈 to how it ended 😏. I can’t recommend this enough.
You can read this as a standalone but you will get SO MUCH MORE from it if you read the first of the series.
Now go forth and catch your own happy ending.
Carrie has a special ability to pace books perfectly. I’m enraptured from the moment I start them until I am hitting the back cover. She sews in the characters from the previous book FLAWLESSLY. I was so happy to be able to spend time with Sky and Hudson again plus meet more of the gang.
(Anyone else obsessed with Wyatt’s 👍🏼 or West’s killer sense of humor? Just me? I love them so much already)
Francie was the perfect balance to our Asher and I can’t help but to say I loved their story. How it started 😈 to how it ended 😏. I can’t recommend this enough.
You can read this as a standalone but you will get SO MUCH MORE from it if you read the first of the series.
Now go forth and catch your own happy ending.
November 1, 2025
Francie is a romance writer and runs into her best friend’s older brother, Asher, while doing research for inspiration. This sets off a series of meetings where the two keep running into each other, unable to deny their attraction despite feeling that their relationship is forbidden. Both come from big families and have some baggage as well. They are a fun couple to read and root for, both characters are likable and flawed. I enjoyed this sweet and spicy romance, as well as the dynamics among the siblings in the book.
While it is part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone. I’ve only read this one and was able to enjoy the book without having read the previous ones.
Read if you like books about writers, best friends’ brother, secret relationships, and found family.
Thank you, Carrie Elks and Hambright PR, for an advanced digital copy of this book.
While it is part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone. I’ve only read this one and was able to enjoy the book without having read the previous ones.
Read if you like books about writers, best friends’ brother, secret relationships, and found family.
Thank you, Carrie Elks and Hambright PR, for an advanced digital copy of this book.
October 27, 2025
This book is addictive! I started reading this on my trip to Rome and what a mistake, I used all my time the last day to think about this book and wanting to read it. And what a time I had on the airplane when I finally could read it. But to quiet the book “This book melted my Kindle. I had to put it in the freezer”
The story start strong and makes you want to read more. The characters are both funny, intense, sweet and strong, all i ask for in the characters I read. That slow burn is amazing. I love that there’s an underlying story in addition to the intense tension, makes the tension even stronger. And the I’m reading book 1 in the series immediately and can’t wait to read the next
The story start strong and makes you want to read more. The characters are both funny, intense, sweet and strong, all i ask for in the characters I read. That slow burn is amazing. I love that there’s an underlying story in addition to the intense tension, makes the tension even stronger. And the I’m reading book 1 in the series immediately and can’t wait to read the next
October 10, 2025
I loved this book. Francie is so fun and Asher is so serious. opposites really attract in this book. there is a lot of sweetness, comedy, and spice but also some sweetness mixed in. I'm true Carrie Elks fashion, this book was hard to put down.
October 10, 2025
Absolutely delightful
I loved this. The author drew me in to Asher and Francie's world and kept me enthralled from the first page to the last. The slow burn was delicious, the spice original and hot, and the growing connection between the main characters was tender, raw and consuming. I got an absolute kick out of Francie's job as a spicy romantasy writer, and the suspense and twists surrounding Asher's mysterious work breach added an intriguing drama and climax to the story. I particularly loved the time spent back on the island of Liberty, revisiting characters from the first book in this series (The Fitzgeralds), but as Francie is a Salinger, you may also recognise many other familiar characters if you're as much a fan of Carrie Elks' books as I am. While this can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone, I highly recommend ready ALL of Carrie's previous work immediately.
I was lucky to receive an early copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I loved this. The author drew me in to Asher and Francie's world and kept me enthralled from the first page to the last. The slow burn was delicious, the spice original and hot, and the growing connection between the main characters was tender, raw and consuming. I got an absolute kick out of Francie's job as a spicy romantasy writer, and the suspense and twists surrounding Asher's mysterious work breach added an intriguing drama and climax to the story. I particularly loved the time spent back on the island of Liberty, revisiting characters from the first book in this series (The Fitzgeralds), but as Francie is a Salinger, you may also recognise many other familiar characters if you're as much a fan of Carrie Elks' books as I am. While this can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone, I highly recommend ready ALL of Carrie's previous work immediately.
I was lucky to receive an early copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 30, 2025
Love Carrie!
November 1, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ It was a solid read but didn’t do much for me.
October 6, 2025
4.75 stars! In Case You Didn’t know is the second book in the Fitzgerald series by Carrie Elks, but reads very well as a standalone. I absolutely loved this book!
Francine Salinger is an up and coming author is begins the story researching her novel in a sex club. Little does she know her best friend’s brother and long time crush, Asher Fitzgerald, is there and rescues her from a possible hairy situation. Unbeknownst to Francie, Asher has always had a thing for her, but felt he couldn’t act on it because she was his sister’s best friend and 10 years his junior.
After being forced to spend time together in the lighthouse on Liberty island, they act on their feelings and begin an intense, spicy relationship - which remains secret from everyone else.
I really enjoyed Asher and Francie together and was really rooting for them through the story! I loved how Francie was an independent and fierce woman, which I feel was due to having to live under the watchful eye of 6 older brothers all her life. Asher is like this nerdy alpha who loves to control in the bedroom and don’t get me started on the glasses! 🥵. I loved the secondary characters and especially loved the little ‘Thelma and Louise’ action we had at one part of the book. It had me cackling! Also, the family group chat- hilarious!!!
This was my first book from Carrie Elks and I definitely will be going back and reading others!
Thank you to Hambright PR and of course, Carrie Ella, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Tropes: age gap, best friend’s brother, grumpy/sunshine, billionaire
Francine Salinger is an up and coming author is begins the story researching her novel in a sex club. Little does she know her best friend’s brother and long time crush, Asher Fitzgerald, is there and rescues her from a possible hairy situation. Unbeknownst to Francie, Asher has always had a thing for her, but felt he couldn’t act on it because she was his sister’s best friend and 10 years his junior.
After being forced to spend time together in the lighthouse on Liberty island, they act on their feelings and begin an intense, spicy relationship - which remains secret from everyone else.
I really enjoyed Asher and Francie together and was really rooting for them through the story! I loved how Francie was an independent and fierce woman, which I feel was due to having to live under the watchful eye of 6 older brothers all her life. Asher is like this nerdy alpha who loves to control in the bedroom and don’t get me started on the glasses! 🥵. I loved the secondary characters and especially loved the little ‘Thelma and Louise’ action we had at one part of the book. It had me cackling! Also, the family group chat- hilarious!!!
This was my first book from Carrie Elks and I definitely will be going back and reading others!
Thank you to Hambright PR and of course, Carrie Ella, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Tropes: age gap, best friend’s brother, grumpy/sunshine, billionaire
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2025
2.5
Unfortunately I’m giving up right now at 39%. I usually love Carrie Elk’s books (especially her small town series) but this one frustrated me so much. Francie and Asher did have great chemistry but the constant dialogue in their heads of why they couldn’t ever be together completely killed it for me. Because honestly, there was no good reason why they couldn’t be together and I absolutely hate when writers try to make a relationship “forbidden” when it doesn’t need to be. The whole “my best friend’s brother” trope never works for me because if two consenting adults really want to be together, the best friend should be happy for them. There were some other reasons too, Asher kept saying he was too old for her and too busy. I just got sick of the constant excuses in their heads. It ruined all the tension.
Unfortunately I’m giving up right now at 39%. I usually love Carrie Elk’s books (especially her small town series) but this one frustrated me so much. Francie and Asher did have great chemistry but the constant dialogue in their heads of why they couldn’t ever be together completely killed it for me. Because honestly, there was no good reason why they couldn’t be together and I absolutely hate when writers try to make a relationship “forbidden” when it doesn’t need to be. The whole “my best friend’s brother” trope never works for me because if two consenting adults really want to be together, the best friend should be happy for them. There were some other reasons too, Asher kept saying he was too old for her and too busy. I just got sick of the constant excuses in their heads. It ruined all the tension.
November 18, 2025
Characterization did not work for me
In Case You Didn’t Know, book two in Carrie Elks’s The Fitzgeralds series, reads much like book one—same archetypes, just different names. That said, I did prefer Asher to Hudson from the first installment.
Asher Fitzgerald, the second-oldest brother, is installing security at a “lifestyle” club when he spots his sister’s best friend, Francie Salinger, on the surveillance cameras. Instantly incensed, he rushes to the room where she’s watching members engage in sexual activity and orders her to leave. Both assume the other is there for personal reasons, but Francie is actually conducting research. No one knows she’s an author, so she can’t explain herself without revealing her secret. Asher decides to keep a close eye on her to ensure she stays out of trouble, while also battling his growing attraction. Francie, of course, is equally drawn to him.
Francie, for me, echoed Skylar, the FMC from book one. It felt like the author was trying to write her as a seductress while simultaneously emphasizing her “innocence.” The result was a character whose actions and dialogue came off as childish, to put it mildly. She constantly poked at Asher, fishing for compliments and trying to get him to admit he liked her, but there was no logic or rhythm to her behavior. Part of the issue, I think, was the muddled backstory. We’re told Francie practically grew up in the Fitzgerald household due to her friendship with Autumn, and that she’d once had a crush on each of the brothers, Asher being the first. But later, that detail is quietly dropped, and suddenly it’s always been Asher. The inconsistency was confusing.
Truth be told, the video-sex scenes were just tacky. Francie supposedly engaged in them to provide “comfort,” claiming it wasn’t about the act itself. Yet for a full week, she was pleasuring herself on camera while Asher watched from the other side, this before they’d even been together. Unsurprisingly, this secret eventually comes to light. When Asher’s ex tells Francie, “I never had to touch myself when I was with him—he always took care of that,” I didn’t feel the least bit sorry for Francie. The whole setup felt more like her throwing herself at him than anything emotionally grounded.
After their initial encounter at the club, Francie’s hostility toward Asher felt contrived, just there to create angst. It might have made sense if they’d had a prior romantic history, but in context, her animosity seemed forced. Francie felt more like a plot device to bring the MMC to heel than a fully developed character. And of course, the near-virgin trope made an appearance, with Francie randomly “confessing” to Asher that she hadn’t had sex in four years. It was out of the blue and added nothing. Like Skylar, Francie just didn’t work for me. Too many contradictions, too much immaturity.
Asher’s character was more solidly written, but I still had questions, especially about his relationship with his ex, a woman he’d been living with before Francie. The word “love” was tossed around casually, and it was never clear whether those feelings were truly resolved. At one point, Asher tells his ex he was just “scratching an itch” with her, which rang hollow given the earlier mentions of love.
The story did pick up toward the end, with the suspense building to a climax. But even then, Francie’s confrontation with Asher’s ex lacked purpose. She shows up, says the woman can do whatever she wants, and… that’s it. No resolution, no emotional payoff. So what was the point?
Ultimately, the romance didn’t land for me. There were too many illogical actions and dialogue, especially on Francie’s part. Here are a couple of lines that exemplify the disconnect:
“What did we do?”
He tips his head to the side, like he’s trying to scrutinize me. “Christ, I can’t talk to you when you’re dressed like that.”
I look down at my golden dress. “Want me to take it off?”
And:
“Is that why you were so angry with me for being at that club?” I ask him. “Because you think I’m too young?”
His jaw tightens. “I was angry because you clearly have no concept of how to be safe.”
“I know how to be safe. I use birth control, Asher.”
Really?
In Case You Didn’t Know, book two in Carrie Elks’s The Fitzgeralds series, reads much like book one—same archetypes, just different names. That said, I did prefer Asher to Hudson from the first installment.
Asher Fitzgerald, the second-oldest brother, is installing security at a “lifestyle” club when he spots his sister’s best friend, Francie Salinger, on the surveillance cameras. Instantly incensed, he rushes to the room where she’s watching members engage in sexual activity and orders her to leave. Both assume the other is there for personal reasons, but Francie is actually conducting research. No one knows she’s an author, so she can’t explain herself without revealing her secret. Asher decides to keep a close eye on her to ensure she stays out of trouble, while also battling his growing attraction. Francie, of course, is equally drawn to him.
Francie, for me, echoed Skylar, the FMC from book one. It felt like the author was trying to write her as a seductress while simultaneously emphasizing her “innocence.” The result was a character whose actions and dialogue came off as childish, to put it mildly. She constantly poked at Asher, fishing for compliments and trying to get him to admit he liked her, but there was no logic or rhythm to her behavior. Part of the issue, I think, was the muddled backstory. We’re told Francie practically grew up in the Fitzgerald household due to her friendship with Autumn, and that she’d once had a crush on each of the brothers, Asher being the first. But later, that detail is quietly dropped, and suddenly it’s always been Asher. The inconsistency was confusing.
Truth be told, the video-sex scenes were just tacky. Francie supposedly engaged in them to provide “comfort,” claiming it wasn’t about the act itself. Yet for a full week, she was pleasuring herself on camera while Asher watched from the other side, this before they’d even been together. Unsurprisingly, this secret eventually comes to light. When Asher’s ex tells Francie, “I never had to touch myself when I was with him—he always took care of that,” I didn’t feel the least bit sorry for Francie. The whole setup felt more like her throwing herself at him than anything emotionally grounded.
After their initial encounter at the club, Francie’s hostility toward Asher felt contrived, just there to create angst. It might have made sense if they’d had a prior romantic history, but in context, her animosity seemed forced. Francie felt more like a plot device to bring the MMC to heel than a fully developed character. And of course, the near-virgin trope made an appearance, with Francie randomly “confessing” to Asher that she hadn’t had sex in four years. It was out of the blue and added nothing. Like Skylar, Francie just didn’t work for me. Too many contradictions, too much immaturity.
Asher’s character was more solidly written, but I still had questions, especially about his relationship with his ex, a woman he’d been living with before Francie. The word “love” was tossed around casually, and it was never clear whether those feelings were truly resolved. At one point, Asher tells his ex he was just “scratching an itch” with her, which rang hollow given the earlier mentions of love.
The story did pick up toward the end, with the suspense building to a climax. But even then, Francie’s confrontation with Asher’s ex lacked purpose. She shows up, says the woman can do whatever she wants, and… that’s it. No resolution, no emotional payoff. So what was the point?
Ultimately, the romance didn’t land for me. There were too many illogical actions and dialogue, especially on Francie’s part. Here are a couple of lines that exemplify the disconnect:
“What did we do?”
He tips his head to the side, like he’s trying to scrutinize me. “Christ, I can’t talk to you when you’re dressed like that.”
I look down at my golden dress. “Want me to take it off?”
And:
“Is that why you were so angry with me for being at that club?” I ask him. “Because you think I’m too young?”
His jaw tightens. “I was angry because you clearly have no concept of how to be safe.”
“I know how to be safe. I use birth control, Asher.”
Really?
October 20, 2025
The main characters in this story are Francine (Francie) Salinger and Asher Fitzgerald. Francie is Autumn’s best friend but more importantly, we know her and her six older brothers from ‘The Salinger brothers’ series! We saw her brothers fall in love in that series and now we see Francie find love. We had to wait a bit, but for me, it was worth the wait. The author gave Francie the perfect man, strong enough to stand up to her older brothers and also supportive of her writing career. You don’t have to read the other series to read this book but if you did, you will see some familiar faces.
Francie Salinger has been writing in secret for several years, and now a publisher offers her a big deal. Francie is partly excited and partly nervous because this is a huge opportunity for her career, but it also brings a lot of stress. This also means she has to tell her family (her older brothers!!) her secret. For years, she’s lied to them, only her best friend Autumn and her cousin Charlie know about her writing career. And if that weren’t stressful enough, Autumn’s older brother Asher is back into her life. As a teenager Francie had a crush on him and now that she’s older, Francie discovers she might still be in love with him. The difference now is that Asher is attracted to her too! Both resist, but the attraction only grows stronger. Especially after that one night when Asher kissed and touched her. To Francies’s surprise, her main male character in her new book begins to act more and more like Asher. The more intense their real-life encounters become, the more intense the story gets (especially the sex scenes!). Asher fuels her imagination to great heights.
But both have their worries, Francie now not only has to confess her secret to her family, but she also has to tell Autumn about her secret affair with her older brother. Asher is having trouble with his business partner Nathan and his ex-girlfriend Annalise (who’s also Nathan’s sister) and when his New York office is broken into, his worries only grow. Liberty Island may be a peaceful haven, but Francie and Asher can’t hide there forever.
Both will have to take steps to resolve their problems. Hopefully, they can do this together.
The story was told from both POV’s. I really liked both characters, they were strong but also had their vulnerabilities. Although both had jobs they were passionate about, they were also a bit lonely, so it was wonderful to see them find what they needed with each other. There was a ten year age gap, Francie was 26 years old and Asher was 36 years. That’s one of the reasons they fought their attraction but in the end, the attraction was too strong. This story had some steamy sex scenes, there were a bit more and they were more passionate than I’m used to from this author, but I enjoyed every moment, scene and page. I can totally understand that Asher was Francie’s inspiration for her Commander in the fantasy book! But the story was about more than that, it had a perfect mix of everything. One of the things that made me laugh in the story was the family group chat, like real siblings, they loved nothing more than teasing each other.
Autumn, Skyler and Charlie also contributed to the story with funny moments. But they were also a great support for Francie in their own way. It was wonderful to see Francie’s brothers again. It was an emotional reunion. We also got a glimpse of their future through an epilogue, which I always love.
I really enjoyed this story and I look forward to the next one in this series.
Francie Salinger has been writing in secret for several years, and now a publisher offers her a big deal. Francie is partly excited and partly nervous because this is a huge opportunity for her career, but it also brings a lot of stress. This also means she has to tell her family (her older brothers!!) her secret. For years, she’s lied to them, only her best friend Autumn and her cousin Charlie know about her writing career. And if that weren’t stressful enough, Autumn’s older brother Asher is back into her life. As a teenager Francie had a crush on him and now that she’s older, Francie discovers she might still be in love with him. The difference now is that Asher is attracted to her too! Both resist, but the attraction only grows stronger. Especially after that one night when Asher kissed and touched her. To Francies’s surprise, her main male character in her new book begins to act more and more like Asher. The more intense their real-life encounters become, the more intense the story gets (especially the sex scenes!). Asher fuels her imagination to great heights.
But both have their worries, Francie now not only has to confess her secret to her family, but she also has to tell Autumn about her secret affair with her older brother. Asher is having trouble with his business partner Nathan and his ex-girlfriend Annalise (who’s also Nathan’s sister) and when his New York office is broken into, his worries only grow. Liberty Island may be a peaceful haven, but Francie and Asher can’t hide there forever.
Both will have to take steps to resolve their problems. Hopefully, they can do this together.
The story was told from both POV’s. I really liked both characters, they were strong but also had their vulnerabilities. Although both had jobs they were passionate about, they were also a bit lonely, so it was wonderful to see them find what they needed with each other. There was a ten year age gap, Francie was 26 years old and Asher was 36 years. That’s one of the reasons they fought their attraction but in the end, the attraction was too strong. This story had some steamy sex scenes, there were a bit more and they were more passionate than I’m used to from this author, but I enjoyed every moment, scene and page. I can totally understand that Asher was Francie’s inspiration for her Commander in the fantasy book! But the story was about more than that, it had a perfect mix of everything. One of the things that made me laugh in the story was the family group chat, like real siblings, they loved nothing more than teasing each other.
Autumn, Skyler and Charlie also contributed to the story with funny moments. But they were also a great support for Francie in their own way. It was wonderful to see Francie’s brothers again. It was an emotional reunion. We also got a glimpse of their future through an epilogue, which I always love.
I really enjoyed this story and I look forward to the next one in this series.
October 6, 2025
IN CASE YOU DIDN’T KNOW by CARRIE ELKS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In Case You Didn’t Know is the second (#2) book in ‘The Fitzgeralds’ series.
When author Francine Salinger visits a ‘adult’ club looking for inspiration for scenes in her next romance book, the last person she expects (or wants) to come across is the man she’s long had a crush on - her best friend’s grouchy and extremely handsome brother.
Whilst working at an exclusive club, Asher Fitzgerald spots Francie, and steps in to protect her from an uncomfortable situation despite her protests. She might be a decade younger than him and infuriatingly, independent and stubborn but Asher has secretly admired her for years despite knowing he could never act on his feelings.
Forced to spend an extended period of time together, whilst both dealing with their own issues, the sparks of attraction intensify and they start a no- strings, intense fling. But when their personal issues rise to the surface, and their secrets are threatened to be revealed Asher will do anything in order to protect Francie, whether she likes it or not…..
————————————————
Wow! Just WOW! Carrie Elks has always written deliciously enticing, addictive books but with ‘In Case You Didn’t Know It’ she has SURPASSED all her previous reads!
This book has it all - a growly, handsome, protective MMC, who has a marshmallow heart underneath his closed off, gruff exterior, a beautiful, fiercely independent, strong and determined MFC, and an compelling storyline.
The attraction between the two main characters is off the charts and this book is spicy with a capital S. I’ll never look at wire rimmed glasses in the same light ever again *fans face*. This book has more open door scenes than Ms Elks previous books but it’s not sensational - it fits with the narrative and helps cement Francie and Asher’s connection.
I just loved Asher and couldn’t help but feel for him. His emotions towards the end of the book bled from the page! He was doing all the wrong things but with the best of intentions. And Francie!! Oh Francie! Who doesn’t love a kick a$$ MFC who knows what they want and isn’t afraid to get it and also has a strong sisterhood at her back.
There is tons of laugh out loud hilarity in there. I loved the family group chat conversations and the interactions between Hudson, Skylar and Asher towards the end helped lighten what was a dark moment for Asher.
At just over 400 pages ( I read the ebook version), perfectly edited and with an absolutely delicious cover design ( the first book in the series has a delicious cover too!) this book has EVERYTHING going for it…I could go on and on. This book is fantastic and I urge you to give it a read!!
With thanks to Carrie for an early copy of this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
✍🏻 Billionaire Romance
✍🏻 Best Friends Brother
✍🏻 Found Family
✍🏻 Small Town Romance
✍🏻 Age Gap
✍🏻 Grumpy/ Sunshine
In Case You Didn’t Know is the second (#2) book in ‘The Fitzgeralds’ series.
When author Francine Salinger visits a ‘adult’ club looking for inspiration for scenes in her next romance book, the last person she expects (or wants) to come across is the man she’s long had a crush on - her best friend’s grouchy and extremely handsome brother.
Whilst working at an exclusive club, Asher Fitzgerald spots Francie, and steps in to protect her from an uncomfortable situation despite her protests. She might be a decade younger than him and infuriatingly, independent and stubborn but Asher has secretly admired her for years despite knowing he could never act on his feelings.
Forced to spend an extended period of time together, whilst both dealing with their own issues, the sparks of attraction intensify and they start a no- strings, intense fling. But when their personal issues rise to the surface, and their secrets are threatened to be revealed Asher will do anything in order to protect Francie, whether she likes it or not…..
————————————————
Wow! Just WOW! Carrie Elks has always written deliciously enticing, addictive books but with ‘In Case You Didn’t Know It’ she has SURPASSED all her previous reads!
This book has it all - a growly, handsome, protective MMC, who has a marshmallow heart underneath his closed off, gruff exterior, a beautiful, fiercely independent, strong and determined MFC, and an compelling storyline.
The attraction between the two main characters is off the charts and this book is spicy with a capital S. I’ll never look at wire rimmed glasses in the same light ever again *fans face*. This book has more open door scenes than Ms Elks previous books but it’s not sensational - it fits with the narrative and helps cement Francie and Asher’s connection.
I just loved Asher and couldn’t help but feel for him. His emotions towards the end of the book bled from the page! He was doing all the wrong things but with the best of intentions. And Francie!! Oh Francie! Who doesn’t love a kick a$$ MFC who knows what they want and isn’t afraid to get it and also has a strong sisterhood at her back.
There is tons of laugh out loud hilarity in there. I loved the family group chat conversations and the interactions between Hudson, Skylar and Asher towards the end helped lighten what was a dark moment for Asher.
At just over 400 pages ( I read the ebook version), perfectly edited and with an absolutely delicious cover design ( the first book in the series has a delicious cover too!) this book has EVERYTHING going for it…I could go on and on. This book is fantastic and I urge you to give it a read!!
With thanks to Carrie for an early copy of this book. All comments are my own honest, unbiased opinion.
✍🏻 Billionaire Romance
✍🏻 Best Friends Brother
✍🏻 Found Family
✍🏻 Small Town Romance
✍🏻 Age Gap
✍🏻 Grumpy/ Sunshine
December 6, 2025
I'll be honest with you lately, I've been in a bit of a romance reading slump. Book after book has failed to pull me out of my funk, leaving me scrolling aimlessly through my TBR pile with zero enthusiasm. So when Hambright PR reached out about In Case You Didn't Know by Carrie Elks, I wasn't expecting much. But here's the thing: this book grabbed my attention from page one and didn't let go.
The premise hooked me immediately. Our heroine writes steamy romance novels under a pen name, keeping her career secret from almost everyone including her best friend's older brother, Asher Fitzgerald. When they unexpectedly cross paths at an exclusive sex club, he suddenly sees her in an entirely different light. What follows is a deliciously forbidden romance filled with tension, heat, and the kind of secrecy that makes every stolen moment feel dangerous.
What I loved most about this book was how Carrie Elks balanced the steam with genuine emotion. The forbidden aspect best friend's brother, secret romance novelist, small-town setting where everyone knows everyone , and the added layers of complexity that kept me invested. Asher's grumpy exterior melting away as he falls for our heroine felt earned, not rushed. And the fact that he's unknowingly the inspiration for her possessive book hero? Even better.
The found family element warmed my heart, and I appreciated the laugh-out-loud moments that broke up the tension. Carrie Elks has a gift for writing banter that feels natural and characters who jump off the page. The small-town setting provided the perfect backdrop for a romance that needed to stay hidden but couldn't help but burn bright.
Was it perfect? Not quite hence the 3Ps. Some plot points felt predictable, and I wished certain conflicts had more depth. But did it pull me out of my slump and remind me why I love romance novels? Absolutely.
If you're looking for a standalone romance with grumpy billionaires, forbidden attraction, and enough heat to fog up your reading glasses, In Case You Didn't Know delivers. It's the kind of book that makes you stay up past your bedtime, whispering "just one more chapter" until suddenly it's 2 AM and you're emotionally invested in fictional people's happiness.
Thank you to Hambright PR for the opportunity to read this one. Sometimes the right book finds you exactly when you need it.
The premise hooked me immediately. Our heroine writes steamy romance novels under a pen name, keeping her career secret from almost everyone including her best friend's older brother, Asher Fitzgerald. When they unexpectedly cross paths at an exclusive sex club, he suddenly sees her in an entirely different light. What follows is a deliciously forbidden romance filled with tension, heat, and the kind of secrecy that makes every stolen moment feel dangerous.
What I loved most about this book was how Carrie Elks balanced the steam with genuine emotion. The forbidden aspect best friend's brother, secret romance novelist, small-town setting where everyone knows everyone , and the added layers of complexity that kept me invested. Asher's grumpy exterior melting away as he falls for our heroine felt earned, not rushed. And the fact that he's unknowingly the inspiration for her possessive book hero? Even better.
The found family element warmed my heart, and I appreciated the laugh-out-loud moments that broke up the tension. Carrie Elks has a gift for writing banter that feels natural and characters who jump off the page. The small-town setting provided the perfect backdrop for a romance that needed to stay hidden but couldn't help but burn bright.
Was it perfect? Not quite hence the 3Ps. Some plot points felt predictable, and I wished certain conflicts had more depth. But did it pull me out of my slump and remind me why I love romance novels? Absolutely.
If you're looking for a standalone romance with grumpy billionaires, forbidden attraction, and enough heat to fog up your reading glasses, In Case You Didn't Know delivers. It's the kind of book that makes you stay up past your bedtime, whispering "just one more chapter" until suddenly it's 2 AM and you're emotionally invested in fictional people's happiness.
Thank you to Hambright PR for the opportunity to read this one. Sometimes the right book finds you exactly when you need it.
October 25, 2025
While updating a security system in an exclusive sex club Asher sees Francie, his sister’s best friend, in one of the voyeur rooms. Francie is there for research for her next book but when Asher sees she is being watched by another man he immediately steps in and gets her out of there.
When Francie temporarily moves to Liberty Island to finish her book Asher is determined to stay away from her, but with their explosive chemistry it doesn’t take long for them to become involved in a steamy secret relationship, providing the perfect inspiration for the spicy romantasy novel Francie is working on.
When a compromising situation arises Asher tries to protect Francie by resolving the issue himself while keeping it a secret from her. Secrets have a way of not staying secret for long and when it all comes crashing down will Francie forgive Asher?
I loved the connection between Asher and Francie and the way it grew as they opened themselves up to each other. Francie was strong and independent and wanted a partner, not someone who would make decisions on her behalf. Asher was overprotective and broody and I really felt for him when he let down his guard and showed his vulnerable side.
I completely understand Francie’s need for independence and why she kept her profession as a romance author a secret from her older—and somewhat overprotective—brothers, however it was nice to see them support her once they found out the truth.
The banter in this book was hilarious, particularly the sibling group chat, and the chemistry between Asher and Francie was amazing!
The pacing of In Case You Didn’t Know was perfect, the secondary characters were interesting and added depth to the story and the betrayals were unexpected.
This was a humorous and heartfelt read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Best Friend’s Older Brother
Grumpy x Sunshine
Age Gap
Forced Proximity
Secret Relationship
Security Camera Spice
When Francie temporarily moves to Liberty Island to finish her book Asher is determined to stay away from her, but with their explosive chemistry it doesn’t take long for them to become involved in a steamy secret relationship, providing the perfect inspiration for the spicy romantasy novel Francie is working on.
When a compromising situation arises Asher tries to protect Francie by resolving the issue himself while keeping it a secret from her. Secrets have a way of not staying secret for long and when it all comes crashing down will Francie forgive Asher?
I loved the connection between Asher and Francie and the way it grew as they opened themselves up to each other. Francie was strong and independent and wanted a partner, not someone who would make decisions on her behalf. Asher was overprotective and broody and I really felt for him when he let down his guard and showed his vulnerable side.
I completely understand Francie’s need for independence and why she kept her profession as a romance author a secret from her older—and somewhat overprotective—brothers, however it was nice to see them support her once they found out the truth.
The banter in this book was hilarious, particularly the sibling group chat, and the chemistry between Asher and Francie was amazing!
The pacing of In Case You Didn’t Know was perfect, the secondary characters were interesting and added depth to the story and the betrayals were unexpected.
This was a humorous and heartfelt read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Best Friend’s Older Brother
Grumpy x Sunshine
Age Gap
Forced Proximity
Secret Relationship
Security Camera Spice
October 29, 2025
💻🔥 IN CASE YOU DIDN’T KNOW by Carrie Elks 🔥💻
A steamy, secret, small-town romance with grumpy-billionaire energy and best-friend’s-brother tension that’ll ruin your sleep schedule.
Francie writes spicy romance novels for a living… in secret. Only two people know her alter ego exists this is until she runs into her best friend’s older brother, Asher Fitzgerald, at a forbidden club where no one is supposed to know your name. 👀
She swears she’s there for research (sure, Jan). He doesn’t believe her for a second.
Now the grumpy, tech-billionaire who’s been off-limits her whole life is suddenly her biggest distraction and maybe her next muse. When a leaky apartment and a company crisis throw them together in his small town, their chemistry explodes into something no amount of “this is a bad idea” can stop.
He’s the man she shouldn’t touch. She’s the woman who’s been living in his head rent-free since that night.
And when he finds out she’s been secretly writing him into her books? Let’s just say… things get real. 🔥
💫 Expect:
💻 Grumpy x sunshine
💋 Best friend’s brother (and forbidden AF)
📖 Secret identity / secret author
🏡 Small-town spice and slow-burn feels
❤️🔥 Age gap, tension, banter, and emotional payoff
Carrie Elks delivers witty dialogue, laugh-out-loud family dynamics, and the kind of tension that crackles. Francie and Asher’s story is sexy, heartfelt, and completely addictive and one of those reads that gives you butterflies and blushes.
✨ “He might be off-limits, but he’s the only one who really sees her.” ✨
#InCaseYouDidntKnow #CarrieElks #TheFitzgeralds #GrumpySunshine #BestFriendsBrother #SecretRomance #SmallTownLove #RomanceReaders #BookstagramRomance #SpicyReads #RomComBooks #BookishLove #ForbiddenRomance #ContemporaryRomance #RomanceReview
A steamy, secret, small-town romance with grumpy-billionaire energy and best-friend’s-brother tension that’ll ruin your sleep schedule.
Francie writes spicy romance novels for a living… in secret. Only two people know her alter ego exists this is until she runs into her best friend’s older brother, Asher Fitzgerald, at a forbidden club where no one is supposed to know your name. 👀
She swears she’s there for research (sure, Jan). He doesn’t believe her for a second.
Now the grumpy, tech-billionaire who’s been off-limits her whole life is suddenly her biggest distraction and maybe her next muse. When a leaky apartment and a company crisis throw them together in his small town, their chemistry explodes into something no amount of “this is a bad idea” can stop.
He’s the man she shouldn’t touch. She’s the woman who’s been living in his head rent-free since that night.
And when he finds out she’s been secretly writing him into her books? Let’s just say… things get real. 🔥
💫 Expect:
💻 Grumpy x sunshine
💋 Best friend’s brother (and forbidden AF)
📖 Secret identity / secret author
🏡 Small-town spice and slow-burn feels
❤️🔥 Age gap, tension, banter, and emotional payoff
Carrie Elks delivers witty dialogue, laugh-out-loud family dynamics, and the kind of tension that crackles. Francie and Asher’s story is sexy, heartfelt, and completely addictive and one of those reads that gives you butterflies and blushes.
✨ “He might be off-limits, but he’s the only one who really sees her.” ✨
#InCaseYouDidntKnow #CarrieElks #TheFitzgeralds #GrumpySunshine #BestFriendsBrother #SecretRomance #SmallTownLove #RomanceReaders #BookstagramRomance #SpicyReads #RomComBooks #BookishLove #ForbiddenRomance #ContemporaryRomance #RomanceReview
November 2, 2025
I am a Carrie Elks fan but somehow hadn’t read the Salinger series or book one in the Fitzgerald series (I will definitely be reading them all!). This book takes place in those worlds but works well as a standalone. A best friend’s brother, age gap romance, this latest book from Carrie brings plenty of steam and laughs.
Francie is a romance writer on the verge of being signed by a trad publisher, only she finds herself stuck when needing to bring more explicit spice to the new book. Her cousin (actually nephew but they’re the same age), hooks her up with entry to a high end, discreet sex club for research purposes. The only hiccup, her best friend’s older brother, Asher, spots her on securities cams while he is working on the system. This chance encounter in the awkwardest of settings brings into adulthood the connection the two have had despite the age gap for as long as they have known each other.
Asher is closed off because of past trauma and a separate relationship betrayal while Francie is determined to live an independent life after being controlled by six older brothers. Despite all this and the complications of family, Francie and Asher can’t stay away from each other. With this secret and others swirling around - Francie’s ultra-overprotective brothers don’t know about her career - Francie and Asher’s story is impacted in ways that challenge both to examine themselves and do the individual work needed to make their relationship ultimately be what they both desperately want.
I loved these two together, especially the moments when Asher allowed Francie to see his vulnerabilities and step up to help him. They balance each other well and bring out the best in the other. A true partnership that is great to see. Can’t wait to see what the next book in the series brings!
Thanks to Carrie Elks and Hambright PR for the ARC!
Francie is a romance writer on the verge of being signed by a trad publisher, only she finds herself stuck when needing to bring more explicit spice to the new book. Her cousin (actually nephew but they’re the same age), hooks her up with entry to a high end, discreet sex club for research purposes. The only hiccup, her best friend’s older brother, Asher, spots her on securities cams while he is working on the system. This chance encounter in the awkwardest of settings brings into adulthood the connection the two have had despite the age gap for as long as they have known each other.
Asher is closed off because of past trauma and a separate relationship betrayal while Francie is determined to live an independent life after being controlled by six older brothers. Despite all this and the complications of family, Francie and Asher can’t stay away from each other. With this secret and others swirling around - Francie’s ultra-overprotective brothers don’t know about her career - Francie and Asher’s story is impacted in ways that challenge both to examine themselves and do the individual work needed to make their relationship ultimately be what they both desperately want.
I loved these two together, especially the moments when Asher allowed Francie to see his vulnerabilities and step up to help him. They balance each other well and bring out the best in the other. A true partnership that is great to see. Can’t wait to see what the next book in the series brings!
Thanks to Carrie Elks and Hambright PR for the ARC!
October 17, 2025
✨Book Review: In Case You Didn’t Know by Carrie Elks✨
This book was such a fun, fiery, and heartfelt read! I loved how it celebrated female empowerment and sexuality in such a confident, unapologetic way. Francie was such a relatable main character — bold, funny, and strong, but also dealing with real fears (her spider phobia had me laughing because same 😭).
“ᴛʜᴀᴛ’ꜱ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜꜱᴇ ɪ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴀᴠᴏʀ ᴛʜɪɴɢꜱ, ꜰʀᴀɴᴄɪᴇ. ɪ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ʀᴜꜱʜ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ɪꜱ ɢᴏɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ᴡʀᴇᴄᴋ ᴍᴇ.”
I loved that both Francie and Asher had their own storylines that blended together so seamlessly. Their chemistry? Absolute fire. No matter how much they tried to stay away from each other, it was impossible — the tension was perfection. And let’s just say… chapter 22 and that maple syrup scene? 🔥🔥🔥
“ᴀɴᴅ ᴊᴜꜱᴛ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ, ɪ’ᴍ ᴘᴀᴛʜᴇᴛɪᴄᴀʟʟʏ, ʙʀᴇᴀᴛʜʟᴇꜱꜱ”
Asher, the MMC, was sexy, protective, and a little possessive in that flawed-but-endearing way. His childhood trauma explained so much about his need for control, and watching him grow and heal throughout the story made me love him even more.
“ɪ ᴀᴍ ʜᴇʀꜱ. ᴀɴᴅ ꜱʜᴇ’ꜱ ɢᴏɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ꜰᴜᴄᴋɪɴɢ ᴜɴʀᴀᴠᴇʟ ᴍᴇ.”
The side characters brought so much life to the book — the sibling group chats, the family secrets, the hilarious sister-in-law with her perfect sarcasm, and the ride-or-die best friend moments. The family dynamics felt so real and added so much warmth.
“ʏᴏᴜ ᴛʜɪɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ɪɴ ᴄᴏɴᴛʀᴏʟ? ʏᴏᴜ ᴛʜɪɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴍᴇ ᴜɴᴅᴏɴᴇ? ʙᴀʙʏ, ɪ’ᴠᴇ ʙᴇᴇɴ ʜᴀɴɢɪɴɢ ʙʏ ᴀ ᴛʜʀᴇᴀᴅ ꜱɪɴᴄᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ɴɪɢʜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡʜɪꜱᴘᴇʀᴇᴅ ᴍʏ ɴᴀᴍᴇ.”
There were also some fun little plot twists sprinkled in that made me giggle and gasp. Overall, In Case You Didn’t Knowwas a beautiful mix of heart, humor, and heat. I’d 100% read it again.
Thank you so much to @Carrieelks and @hambright for the ARC!
This book was such a fun, fiery, and heartfelt read! I loved how it celebrated female empowerment and sexuality in such a confident, unapologetic way. Francie was such a relatable main character — bold, funny, and strong, but also dealing with real fears (her spider phobia had me laughing because same 😭).
“ᴛʜᴀᴛ’ꜱ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜꜱᴇ ɪ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴀᴠᴏʀ ᴛʜɪɴɢꜱ, ꜰʀᴀɴᴄɪᴇ. ɪ ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ʀᴜꜱʜ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ɪꜱ ɢᴏɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ᴡʀᴇᴄᴋ ᴍᴇ.”
I loved that both Francie and Asher had their own storylines that blended together so seamlessly. Their chemistry? Absolute fire. No matter how much they tried to stay away from each other, it was impossible — the tension was perfection. And let’s just say… chapter 22 and that maple syrup scene? 🔥🔥🔥
“ᴀɴᴅ ᴊᴜꜱᴛ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ, ɪ’ᴍ ᴘᴀᴛʜᴇᴛɪᴄᴀʟʟʏ, ʙʀᴇᴀᴛʜʟᴇꜱꜱ”
Asher, the MMC, was sexy, protective, and a little possessive in that flawed-but-endearing way. His childhood trauma explained so much about his need for control, and watching him grow and heal throughout the story made me love him even more.
“ɪ ᴀᴍ ʜᴇʀꜱ. ᴀɴᴅ ꜱʜᴇ’ꜱ ɢᴏɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ꜰᴜᴄᴋɪɴɢ ᴜɴʀᴀᴠᴇʟ ᴍᴇ.”
The side characters brought so much life to the book — the sibling group chats, the family secrets, the hilarious sister-in-law with her perfect sarcasm, and the ride-or-die best friend moments. The family dynamics felt so real and added so much warmth.
“ʏᴏᴜ ᴛʜɪɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ’ʀᴇ ɪɴ ᴄᴏɴᴛʀᴏʟ? ʏᴏᴜ ᴛʜɪɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴍᴇ ᴜɴᴅᴏɴᴇ? ʙᴀʙʏ, ɪ’ᴠᴇ ʙᴇᴇɴ ʜᴀɴɢɪɴɢ ʙʏ ᴀ ᴛʜʀᴇᴀᴅ ꜱɪɴᴄᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ɴɪɢʜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡʜɪꜱᴘᴇʀᴇᴅ ᴍʏ ɴᴀᴍᴇ.”
There were also some fun little plot twists sprinkled in that made me giggle and gasp. Overall, In Case You Didn’t Knowwas a beautiful mix of heart, humor, and heat. I’d 100% read it again.
Thank you so much to @Carrieelks and @hambright for the ARC!
October 25, 2025
In Case You Didn’t Know By Carrie Elks ARC Review
Firstly, I would like to say I loved how Francie’s and Charlie’s friendship was shaped around them and I loved their bond that they built and shared together. I loved how they bonded other simple things like clothes and their communication was written perfectly.
Francie was self confident and I liked that she was aware of her surroundings and was always willing to put others above herself but I liked how her character communicated with others and felt like an in real life experience. I adored how her character shaped up to be with Asher.
Their relationship between each other was so euphoric and unique in a way I can’t describe but I felt the butterflies and how much they flirted with each other. The chemistry between them was beautiful and was a wonderful experience to read about.
I personally thought this was a 5 star read with the background characters progressing with them but I built a personal relationship in such little time reading about them it really made me fall in love and liked how they created their new memories. I can’t wait to see what’s coming next in the series I haven felt something this good in a long time.
The whole story was a 5 star experience but I couldn’t stop loving them even more I loved how the moments they shared and how they built their relationship from trust and it shown me in the beginning of how incredible this reading experience has become.
It felt like a satisfying ending and good conclusion for this couple it made me feel love and happiness is along the sidelines just waiting for you to go on the sidelines and earn it and enjoy the moments they had and cherished between each other.
Firstly, I would like to say I loved how Francie’s and Charlie’s friendship was shaped around them and I loved their bond that they built and shared together. I loved how they bonded other simple things like clothes and their communication was written perfectly.
Francie was self confident and I liked that she was aware of her surroundings and was always willing to put others above herself but I liked how her character communicated with others and felt like an in real life experience. I adored how her character shaped up to be with Asher.
Their relationship between each other was so euphoric and unique in a way I can’t describe but I felt the butterflies and how much they flirted with each other. The chemistry between them was beautiful and was a wonderful experience to read about.
I personally thought this was a 5 star read with the background characters progressing with them but I built a personal relationship in such little time reading about them it really made me fall in love and liked how they created their new memories. I can’t wait to see what’s coming next in the series I haven felt something this good in a long time.
The whole story was a 5 star experience but I couldn’t stop loving them even more I loved how the moments they shared and how they built their relationship from trust and it shown me in the beginning of how incredible this reading experience has become.
It felt like a satisfying ending and good conclusion for this couple it made me feel love and happiness is along the sidelines just waiting for you to go on the sidelines and earn it and enjoy the moments they had and cherished between each other.
November 2, 2025
This was such a fun - and long awaited - read!
Francie is the youngest sibling, and only girl, of the Salinger family. Having grown up with 6 much older brothers felt more like being an only child with 7 fathers. This made it difficult to confide in her brothers, as they were and are very protective of her. She is also closer in age to her nieces and nephews, and prefers to refer to them as her cousins.
Her best friend is Autumn, herself a younger girl in a large family, so they understand each other quite a bit. Having been a firm fixture in Autumn's family for years, she's had innocent crushes on Autumn's brothers at some point or another.
But Asher is different. Her teenage crush comes back with a vengeance when they spend more time together on Liberty, the small island where the Fitzgeralds own a substantial amount of property. Add to that a chance encounter at an exclusive adult club, and Asher's protective tendencies evolve into an obsession with his younger sister's best friend.
I enjoyed how their relationship developed, including how their respective jobs play into this development. As a former amateur writer myself, I can appreciate Francie using her interactions with Asher as inspiration for the book she's writing.
Unfortunately, Asher is dealing with a nasty business break-up (for lack of a better word), which keeps coming back to bite him in the ass. When this starts to affect Francie, he has to learn how to let people in, instead of building ever higher walls for protection.
Francie proves herself to be no damsel in distress, but the heroine in her own romance. As we've seen her grow up a little bit in the Salinger Brothers series, it's very rewarding to see her as an adult in her own story.
Francie is the youngest sibling, and only girl, of the Salinger family. Having grown up with 6 much older brothers felt more like being an only child with 7 fathers. This made it difficult to confide in her brothers, as they were and are very protective of her. She is also closer in age to her nieces and nephews, and prefers to refer to them as her cousins.
Her best friend is Autumn, herself a younger girl in a large family, so they understand each other quite a bit. Having been a firm fixture in Autumn's family for years, she's had innocent crushes on Autumn's brothers at some point or another.
But Asher is different. Her teenage crush comes back with a vengeance when they spend more time together on Liberty, the small island where the Fitzgeralds own a substantial amount of property. Add to that a chance encounter at an exclusive adult club, and Asher's protective tendencies evolve into an obsession with his younger sister's best friend.
I enjoyed how their relationship developed, including how their respective jobs play into this development. As a former amateur writer myself, I can appreciate Francie using her interactions with Asher as inspiration for the book she's writing.
Unfortunately, Asher is dealing with a nasty business break-up (for lack of a better word), which keeps coming back to bite him in the ass. When this starts to affect Francie, he has to learn how to let people in, instead of building ever higher walls for protection.
Francie proves herself to be no damsel in distress, but the heroine in her own romance. As we've seen her grow up a little bit in the Salinger Brothers series, it's very rewarding to see her as an adult in her own story.
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