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Millie, Be Mine
Are second chances possible with the one that got away?
Millie Rose lives her life by the tasks on her to-do list. Between owning the town’s flower shop and coordinating events, it’s just enough to drown out the reality of being alone—and leave her on the edge of burn out. When her one weakness—her brother’s sexy, tattooed, glasses wearing best-friend—comes back to town, she’s reminded of their long, intimate history.
Will Carter walks back into Willow Pines with one goal: make sure his grandpa is doing all right. But once surrounded by his past, he can’t help but wonder what his future holds, especially when he kisses Millie for the first time in three years.
Being forced into partnering to plan the spring festival might just be the catalyst the pair needs to realize that forever, together, is possible. That is, if Millie is able to trust that this time Will means to stay for good.
Millie Rose lives her life by the tasks on her to-do list. Between owning the town’s flower shop and coordinating events, it’s just enough to drown out the reality of being alone—and leave her on the edge of burn out. When her one weakness—her brother’s sexy, tattooed, glasses wearing best-friend—comes back to town, she’s reminded of their long, intimate history.
Will Carter walks back into Willow Pines with one goal: make sure his grandpa is doing all right. But once surrounded by his past, he can’t help but wonder what his future holds, especially when he kisses Millie for the first time in three years.
Being forced into partnering to plan the spring festival might just be the catalyst the pair needs to realize that forever, together, is possible. That is, if Millie is able to trust that this time Will means to stay for good.
288 pages, Paperback
Published April 12, 2025
45 people are currently reading
468 people want to read
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avoid-fmc-2nd-best
May 22, 2025Self note:
So that's what I got from other reviews…
Spoiler!
The MCs had a secret relationship for 7 years 💀 and at some point the MMC decided he didn’t want to be with the FMC anymore and wanted something “better”. So he left her and moved to another city, met another woman, quickly fell in love with her and even got engaged. But that relationship didn’t work out.
So he comes back to town only because his ex dumped him and to help his grandpa—not for the FMC at all who was never really his first choice anyway. Of course the FMC never got over him during the whole 3 years they were apart 😵💫 (no info on her celibacy!!).
Then he starts a fake relationship with the FMC just to keep another woman away from him 😒 and of course the FMC happily takes him back. There’s no Grovel or regret, like he didn’t treat her like a dirty little secret for 7 years or the fact that he never chose her, never made any real effort to win her back but because she loves him so much and doesn’t value herself enough she doesn’t even give him a hard time about any of it.
So that's what I got from other reviews…
Spoiler!
The MCs had a secret relationship for 7 years 💀 and at some point the MMC decided he didn’t want to be with the FMC anymore and wanted something “better”. So he left her and moved to another city, met another woman, quickly fell in love with her and even got engaged. But that relationship didn’t work out.
So he comes back to town only because his ex dumped him and to help his grandpa—not for the FMC at all who was never really his first choice anyway. Of course the FMC never got over him during the whole 3 years they were apart 😵💫 (no info on her celibacy!!).
Then he starts a fake relationship with the FMC just to keep another woman away from him 😒 and of course the FMC happily takes him back. There’s no Grovel or regret, like he didn’t treat her like a dirty little secret for 7 years or the fact that he never chose her, never made any real effort to win her back but because she loves him so much and doesn’t value herself enough she doesn’t even give him a hard time about any of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2025
Thank you Courtney Corlew for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
2.5 ⭐️
The small-town vibes of this book were really sweet, and I thought that the main couple were adorable together. I especially liked the supporting characters; both Millie & Will’s families were lovely, funny & supportive.
However, I thought that the timeline of the whole story was too rushed. I desperately wanted to root for Millie & Will but I feel like they never got any proper closure from their issues, and their reconciliation happened insanely quickly - for example, they decided that they were ready to have a baby together on a whim, without being properly honest with each other and whilst they were still refusing to admit that they wanted to be in a relationship? 😬
That, coupled with the fact that they were 29 & 31 years old and were using language like ‘endgame’ to describe each other.. didn’t give me the emotional maturity that I search for in my romances.
The town itself and the folks who lived there sounded absolutely wonderful, but unfortunately nothing was expanded on enough to give us the full, rich picture that the story deserved. I would definitely be interested in reading any sequels that the author produces, but I hope that they are written with a bit more care & substance.
2.5 ⭐️
The small-town vibes of this book were really sweet, and I thought that the main couple were adorable together. I especially liked the supporting characters; both Millie & Will’s families were lovely, funny & supportive.
However, I thought that the timeline of the whole story was too rushed. I desperately wanted to root for Millie & Will but I feel like they never got any proper closure from their issues, and their reconciliation happened insanely quickly - for example, they decided that they were ready to have a baby together on a whim, without being properly honest with each other and whilst they were still refusing to admit that they wanted to be in a relationship? 😬
That, coupled with the fact that they were 29 & 31 years old and were using language like ‘endgame’ to describe each other.. didn’t give me the emotional maturity that I search for in my romances.
The town itself and the folks who lived there sounded absolutely wonderful, but unfortunately nothing was expanded on enough to give us the full, rich picture that the story deserved. I would definitely be interested in reading any sequels that the author produces, but I hope that they are written with a bit more care & substance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2025
“We are endgame.”
Ugh. I do I love a good small town, brothers best friends, second chance, best friends to lovers romance… don’t you? This book hits all the marks! ANNNDDDDD he’s a tattooed, glasses wearing magic loving nerd who wears his silly leather jacket? Sign me up.
Overall rating: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆.5
Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️
Overall emotions felt: CRYING ALL THE TIME
Millie Mae Rose , our sunshine, flower shop owner who also runs events business, loves to do lists and is a huge people pleaser, finds herself drowning in works and things to do, so when she hears her brothers best friend and the man who broke her heart is coming to visit thier small town, she decides she is going to stay far away… not how loud her heart sings for him and his perfectly annoying face.
William Carter, our flirty and handsome music loving man, who is in town to see his grandpa and check on everything at the record store, finds himself distracted by the one woman who has had his heart since they were young. His ‘Rose’, his Millie, but he knows that she isn’t happy with him, not when she ignores him and runs in the other direction every time he’s in the same room. But when the meddling small town put Will and Millie together for the spring festival.. things take a turn for the better.
Will and Millie are such a REAL FUCKING COUPLE! MY GOD! This book talks about the struggles of not being able to say no to people (ME FR!), family dynamics, real life debt situations and family struggles. Whilst also talking about communities and found families and having support in these tough times. I loved their story so much because it felt like a window into an everyday couple and the struggles they face as well as the sacrifices and hard work they BOTH put in for each other.
Will, who always try to be this cool, calm and collected man, BREAKS down when he learns about his grandpa’s condition, the struggles he is about to face with debt and trying yo restart the business again. How this man BROKE DOWN WHEN HE LEARNT HE GRANDPA WASN’T OKAY AND NEEDED HIS GIRL THERE! Oh my fucking heart couldn’t take it. A man who cares deeply for the family he has always gets me. And when he learnt about his SISTER! The way he wanted to be a support system for her and help her even though he hates his father… that’s a real man!
Millie, who ever accepts help or says no and is on the brink of burning out, finally opening up to accept help, finally get as the courage to trust someone with her business after being burned BAD from a longtime friend. That’s so authentic because I too have felt that pain before and it shatters your trust and confidence. I was sos proud of Millie for finally finding her ground and what she truely wanted to do and accomplish.
Millie and Will’s relationship was a ROLLERCOASTER in a good way. Did I shed tears??? Totally! You’re telling me these two LOVE SICK idiots, grew up together, loved each other, her brother was HAPPY for them to finally be together, who broke each others hearts, finally found their way back to each other!?!? Yeaaaaaa! They started out faked, because Will needed to get someone away from him, so who better than the women he’s obsessed with? But when Millie is finally through playing it fake when her heart is on the line… Will gives in. Knowing he would give her the moon and the stars if she asked. They both navigate their feelings, thier relationship and their businesses whilst getting to know each other again and slowly falling back in love with each other… although.. they never really fell out of love to begin with.
Now these two are HAWT in bed. Will has a filthy mouth on him but my god… did I eat it the fuck up! They are both so dominating and sexy as hell and just AHHHHHHH! I need a fan just talking about them my goodness me. I don’t know what Courtney put in this but I want moreeeeee.
And the FRIENDSHIPS in this book!?!? I. LOVE. SUPPORTIVE. FRIENDS. IN. BOOKS. ALWAYS. The way the girls would come together for Millie even when they all had hectic lives, again… real because not everyone gets to see their best friends all the time (i wish we could) and help her with the events or flower shops. How the girls were honest about Millie’s feelings for Will and how she needed to go for it. Will, Jere and Grant are lots of fun for sure too. Teasing Will about Millie and telling him how stupid he is for trying to ‘fake date’ her when they all know he loves her! Ugh i love strong friendships in books!
I loved this book and I want to say a huge thank you to Courtney for selecting me as an ARC reader! I am so excited for what is next!!!
Ugh. I do I love a good small town, brothers best friends, second chance, best friends to lovers romance… don’t you? This book hits all the marks! ANNNDDDDD he’s a tattooed, glasses wearing magic loving nerd who wears his silly leather jacket? Sign me up.
Overall rating: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆.5
Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️
Overall emotions felt: CRYING ALL THE TIME
Millie Mae Rose , our sunshine, flower shop owner who also runs events business, loves to do lists and is a huge people pleaser, finds herself drowning in works and things to do, so when she hears her brothers best friend and the man who broke her heart is coming to visit thier small town, she decides she is going to stay far away… not how loud her heart sings for him and his perfectly annoying face.
William Carter, our flirty and handsome music loving man, who is in town to see his grandpa and check on everything at the record store, finds himself distracted by the one woman who has had his heart since they were young. His ‘Rose’, his Millie, but he knows that she isn’t happy with him, not when she ignores him and runs in the other direction every time he’s in the same room. But when the meddling small town put Will and Millie together for the spring festival.. things take a turn for the better.
Will and Millie are such a REAL FUCKING COUPLE! MY GOD! This book talks about the struggles of not being able to say no to people (ME FR!), family dynamics, real life debt situations and family struggles. Whilst also talking about communities and found families and having support in these tough times. I loved their story so much because it felt like a window into an everyday couple and the struggles they face as well as the sacrifices and hard work they BOTH put in for each other.
Will, who always try to be this cool, calm and collected man, BREAKS down when he learns about his grandpa’s condition, the struggles he is about to face with debt and trying yo restart the business again. How this man BROKE DOWN WHEN HE LEARNT HE GRANDPA WASN’T OKAY AND NEEDED HIS GIRL THERE! Oh my fucking heart couldn’t take it. A man who cares deeply for the family he has always gets me. And when he learnt about his SISTER! The way he wanted to be a support system for her and help her even though he hates his father… that’s a real man!
Millie, who ever accepts help or says no and is on the brink of burning out, finally opening up to accept help, finally get as the courage to trust someone with her business after being burned BAD from a longtime friend. That’s so authentic because I too have felt that pain before and it shatters your trust and confidence. I was sos proud of Millie for finally finding her ground and what she truely wanted to do and accomplish.
Millie and Will’s relationship was a ROLLERCOASTER in a good way. Did I shed tears??? Totally! You’re telling me these two LOVE SICK idiots, grew up together, loved each other, her brother was HAPPY for them to finally be together, who broke each others hearts, finally found their way back to each other!?!? Yeaaaaaa! They started out faked, because Will needed to get someone away from him, so who better than the women he’s obsessed with? But when Millie is finally through playing it fake when her heart is on the line… Will gives in. Knowing he would give her the moon and the stars if she asked. They both navigate their feelings, thier relationship and their businesses whilst getting to know each other again and slowly falling back in love with each other… although.. they never really fell out of love to begin with.
Now these two are HAWT in bed. Will has a filthy mouth on him but my god… did I eat it the fuck up! They are both so dominating and sexy as hell and just AHHHHHHH! I need a fan just talking about them my goodness me. I don’t know what Courtney put in this but I want moreeeeee.
And the FRIENDSHIPS in this book!?!? I. LOVE. SUPPORTIVE. FRIENDS. IN. BOOKS. ALWAYS. The way the girls would come together for Millie even when they all had hectic lives, again… real because not everyone gets to see their best friends all the time (i wish we could) and help her with the events or flower shops. How the girls were honest about Millie’s feelings for Will and how she needed to go for it. Will, Jere and Grant are lots of fun for sure too. Teasing Will about Millie and telling him how stupid he is for trying to ‘fake date’ her when they all know he loves her! Ugh i love strong friendships in books!
I loved this book and I want to say a huge thank you to Courtney for selecting me as an ARC reader! I am so excited for what is next!!!
April 12, 2025
#Review: *Millie, Be Mine* - Courtney Corlew - ARC [18+]
4.3/5✨
2.5/5🌶️
I read last year another book by Courtney and I was pretty curious about this new series by her. I wanna thank Millie for accepting me to be part of her ARC team for this one!
This is the 1st book of 'Willow Pines' series, which follows the love story of Millie Rose and Will Carter.
Millie is a well known hard worker in town, always busy with an event which is in need of flowers. She is sister with Jeremy, who's best friend is Will Carter. Millie and Will had an history together, which ended when Will left town. But now he was back and, even though he had other relationships while being away, the connection with Millie remained the same - a strong tension and raw desire were still present there. The question is: will this relationship survive this time around?
This is a second chance romance, where Carter and Millie's love was tested by their own lives and by their families. I felt so sorry for Carter when I saw how hurt he was because of his grandpa. Millie was that type of woman who never said no and that wasn't always in her favour, because she was really swamped by all that work she accepted to do. They were both lucky to have each other, bringing some fun, sweetness and spice to the story, especially with their little fake dating excuse. Millie's brother, Jeremy, was so much fun too and I would love to find out more about him, maybe in the next parts of this series.
It was a pretty relaxing story, with a bit of everything. It had some pretty interesting surprises towards the end. It definitely made me curious about the next book.
✨Tropes
#SecondChanceRomance
#SmallTown
#BrothersBestFriend
#SlowBurn
#ChildhoodFriendToLovers
#FakeDating
4.3/5✨
2.5/5🌶️
I read last year another book by Courtney and I was pretty curious about this new series by her. I wanna thank Millie for accepting me to be part of her ARC team for this one!
This is the 1st book of 'Willow Pines' series, which follows the love story of Millie Rose and Will Carter.
Millie is a well known hard worker in town, always busy with an event which is in need of flowers. She is sister with Jeremy, who's best friend is Will Carter. Millie and Will had an history together, which ended when Will left town. But now he was back and, even though he had other relationships while being away, the connection with Millie remained the same - a strong tension and raw desire were still present there. The question is: will this relationship survive this time around?
This is a second chance romance, where Carter and Millie's love was tested by their own lives and by their families. I felt so sorry for Carter when I saw how hurt he was because of his grandpa. Millie was that type of woman who never said no and that wasn't always in her favour, because she was really swamped by all that work she accepted to do. They were both lucky to have each other, bringing some fun, sweetness and spice to the story, especially with their little fake dating excuse. Millie's brother, Jeremy, was so much fun too and I would love to find out more about him, maybe in the next parts of this series.
It was a pretty relaxing story, with a bit of everything. It had some pretty interesting surprises towards the end. It definitely made me curious about the next book.
✨Tropes
#SecondChanceRomance
#SmallTown
#BrothersBestFriend
#SlowBurn
#ChildhoodFriendToLovers
#FakeDating
April 6, 2025
⭐ 3.25
🌶️ 1.5
🥵 Spicy chapters: 16, 21, 33, 38
📚 Tropes/Themes: second chance, brother's bestie, it's always been you, slow burn, small town
👀 Dual POV 1st person
🛍️ Available: April 12
💔 Triggers: dementia, parental death
💬 This was a really cute and sweet story, but it fell flat for me. I had a hard time connecting with the MCs and I wish there had been more character development. I think the story has a lot of potential, but could use some more editing- like it felt like there was a lot going but nothing actually happened and there were pacing issues. I did like how Corlew built up the tension between the MCs though.
The biggest thing for me is I found the fake dating thing to be....odd. The main thing about the trope is that they deny the feelings they really have but finally accept that they're falling in love but, that's not whats happening? It's more like they want to justify getting back together without actually calling it a relationship?
"I can tell she’s getting confused about what we are to each other."
I was too 😅 Maybe if the framing had just been about them getting a second chance and not fake dating it wouldn't have been as weird to me.
I did appreciate that it was low angst though, and the introduction of Kristie near the end added interest. Like I said, the plot was good, just the execution could use a little work.
🌶️ 1.5
🥵 Spicy chapters: 16, 21, 33, 38
📚 Tropes/Themes: second chance, brother's bestie, it's always been you, slow burn, small town
👀 Dual POV 1st person
🛍️ Available: April 12
💔 Triggers: dementia, parental death
💬 This was a really cute and sweet story, but it fell flat for me. I had a hard time connecting with the MCs and I wish there had been more character development. I think the story has a lot of potential, but could use some more editing- like it felt like there was a lot going but nothing actually happened and there were pacing issues. I did like how Corlew built up the tension between the MCs though.
The biggest thing for me is I found the fake dating thing to be....odd. The main thing about the trope is that they deny the feelings they really have but finally accept that they're falling in love but, that's not whats happening? It's more like they want to justify getting back together without actually calling it a relationship?
"I can tell she’s getting confused about what we are to each other."
I was too 😅 Maybe if the framing had just been about them getting a second chance and not fake dating it wouldn't have been as weird to me.
I did appreciate that it was low angst though, and the introduction of Kristie near the end added interest. Like I said, the plot was good, just the execution could use a little work.
March 27, 2025
This was such a great read with some of my favourite tropes small town, brother’s best friend second chance romance. Millie and Will are from Willow Pines, Millie is the local florist and Will returns home to visit his grandfather after leaving their small town. They have always had a connection and throw in a friend’s with benefits agreement whenever Will returned home in the past. This story had been invested from the beginning and I adored all the characters we were introduced to and hopefully we get their stories in future. I thoroughly enjoyed this one! I received a complementary copy from the author.
dnf
April 13, 2025“Millie, Be Mine” by Courtney Corlew
DNF @ 33%
This is a classic case of: good book, but not for me. The writing is great, I was drawn in immediately. However, the pacing is where the story lost me. Will and Millie moved way too fast, and it seemed like they jumped over the whole ‘second chance romance angst’, which is the best part! I also cringe anytime there’s a scene where two people are doing PDA to show off to another character.
DNF @ 33%
This is a classic case of: good book, but not for me. The writing is great, I was drawn in immediately. However, the pacing is where the story lost me. Will and Millie moved way too fast, and it seemed like they jumped over the whole ‘second chance romance angst’, which is the best part! I also cringe anytime there’s a scene where two people are doing PDA to show off to another character.
March 28, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Millie, Be Mine is a true second chance romance. I have loved reading Courtney’s other books and was so excited to get the opportunity to read this one too! I loved being able to read about Millie and Will reconnecting and finally admitting their feelings for each other. While there were some great heartfelt moments and some good spice, this book was a bit too fast paced for me! I felt like everything happened too quickly and it lacked some of the depth that Courtney’s other books have had. It was definitely a nice feel-good story, but I wished there was just a bit more to it. Thanks so much to Courtney for the opportunity to read this story early!
2.75⭐️
Millie, Be Mine is a true second chance romance. I have loved reading Courtney’s other books and was so excited to get the opportunity to read this one too! I loved being able to read about Millie and Will reconnecting and finally admitting their feelings for each other. While there were some great heartfelt moments and some good spice, this book was a bit too fast paced for me! I felt like everything happened too quickly and it lacked some of the depth that Courtney’s other books have had. It was definitely a nice feel-good story, but I wished there was just a bit more to it. Thanks so much to Courtney for the opportunity to read this story early!
2.75⭐️
April 21, 2025
Dnf @ 11%
her reason for being mad at him is incredibly asinine
her reason for being mad at him is incredibly asinine
March 26, 2025
I loved the story and progression of it. The characters were very enjoyable and well written especially Millie's obnoxious need for lists haha but I feel as if the 'reason' for the fake dating was very lackluster and completely disappeared the second half of the book. There was also a surprise character towards the end that was presented to really add a dramatic twist to the book and I was very excited for it...but it was sorta pushed to the side and nothing really came from it, considering how big of an introduction it was I was expecting more around that specific part of the story.
April 4, 2025
This was an intense all consuming kind of romance novel. It features Will and Millie who were childhood best friends turned friends to benefits turned “enemies” turned lovers. It really goes from 0-100 and I am so here for it!! The tropes in this book are insane and I would 100% recommend this to anyone looking for an infatuating romance read or a quick palate cleanser in between longer books with heavy themes or topics to avoid a book slump!!
July 20, 2025
Rating - ⭐⭐
Spice - 🌶🌶
Trope - childhood friends to lovers, brother's best friend, best friend's sister, fake dating, forced proximity, secret relationship, found family, it's always been you, reverse age gap, second chance, mutual pining, small town, HEA
I would just say one thing: this book wasn't for me. I avoid writing negative reviews, but I just couldn't with this book.
Millie and Will were in a secret relationship for years before he chose his dreams over her. Years later, he shows up again, and though she is pissed at him, she agrees to be in a fake relationship with him because he wants to get a girl off his back. Like that is one petty reason to start a relationship when you both know you want more, or even have wished for more.
The couple was too damn confused; they wanted each other, but they wouldn't express anything until the very end. There was angst, but with no spark, I felt little to no emotion while reading about their feelings or moments.
Also, there was too much happening for such an average-length book - him moving, them suddenly dating, making out, his life issues, a new character entering, and them not being able to make a decision.
I skimmed through the last 50% of the book because I wanted to see where things go - I can't DNF a book without knowing what the hell happened in there. So, I tortured myself and now I feel like I'm going to fall into a reading slump 😭😭.
Felt like I was reading someone's journal rather than reading a romance novel.
I didn't enjoy it at all.
Everything just felt unexciting and bland.
Overall 2/5
Spice - 🌶🌶
Trope - childhood friends to lovers, brother's best friend, best friend's sister, fake dating, forced proximity, secret relationship, found family, it's always been you, reverse age gap, second chance, mutual pining, small town, HEA
I would just say one thing: this book wasn't for me. I avoid writing negative reviews, but I just couldn't with this book.
Millie and Will were in a secret relationship for years before he chose his dreams over her. Years later, he shows up again, and though she is pissed at him, she agrees to be in a fake relationship with him because he wants to get a girl off his back. Like that is one petty reason to start a relationship when you both know you want more, or even have wished for more.
The couple was too damn confused; they wanted each other, but they wouldn't express anything until the very end. There was angst, but with no spark, I felt little to no emotion while reading about their feelings or moments.
Also, there was too much happening for such an average-length book - him moving, them suddenly dating, making out, his life issues, a new character entering, and them not being able to make a decision.
I skimmed through the last 50% of the book because I wanted to see where things go - I can't DNF a book without knowing what the hell happened in there. So, I tortured myself and now I feel like I'm going to fall into a reading slump 😭😭.
Felt like I was reading someone's journal rather than reading a romance novel.
I didn't enjoy it at all.
Everything just felt unexciting and bland.
Overall 2/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2025
Thank you Courtney for trusting me with your newest book early for a honest review ☺️
✨3.5✨
Second chances, brother’s bestfriend, small town romance -> if these are up your alley I PROMISE you this is worth a read. Millie is a girl who struggles to set boundaries for her own sake - doing everything for everybody and taking more on her plate than she should. William is a man who thought he figured out what he wanted until a trip back to where he grew up stirs up old memories especially with his best-friend’s sister. Their old friends with benefits situation and seeing her again brings up old and new feelings William is determined to ignore - however when a fake dating plot occurs they’re forced to relive all their feelings.
Let me say first and foremost I enjoyed the characters. Millie’s complexity of people pleasing was like watching myself in third person. William dealing with family history makes me feel seen with what I’ve had the issues of dealing with as well. That being said it felt like there was little to no angst of “Millie is mad” it was “Millie is mad but wanna kiss him” and while that usually would work it seemed so fast paced I felt like we missed key plot potential for these characters. The characters have history - however we don’t have that history. It threw me a bit for a loop. If you enjoy fast paced - I hope you enjoy this! The fast paced issues aside - I did enjoy the read from what I could stay with! 💕
✨3.5✨
Second chances, brother’s bestfriend, small town romance -> if these are up your alley I PROMISE you this is worth a read. Millie is a girl who struggles to set boundaries for her own sake - doing everything for everybody and taking more on her plate than she should. William is a man who thought he figured out what he wanted until a trip back to where he grew up stirs up old memories especially with his best-friend’s sister. Their old friends with benefits situation and seeing her again brings up old and new feelings William is determined to ignore - however when a fake dating plot occurs they’re forced to relive all their feelings.
Let me say first and foremost I enjoyed the characters. Millie’s complexity of people pleasing was like watching myself in third person. William dealing with family history makes me feel seen with what I’ve had the issues of dealing with as well. That being said it felt like there was little to no angst of “Millie is mad” it was “Millie is mad but wanna kiss him” and while that usually would work it seemed so fast paced I felt like we missed key plot potential for these characters. The characters have history - however we don’t have that history. It threw me a bit for a loop. If you enjoy fast paced - I hope you enjoy this! The fast paced issues aside - I did enjoy the read from what I could stay with! 💕
April 11, 2025
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read early!
Millie Mae Rose, the Willow Pines resident florist and event planner, is hardworking and loves her small town. When her brother’s best friend, Will Carter, arrives for a visit, their unresolved feelings for one another come to a head.
Millie, Be Mine was a short and sweet small town romance! The pacing was interesting in this book. I liked the characters but I felt I didn’t really get to know them / there was more backstory we missed out on. Corlew spent time discussing how the two main characters needed to talk, without actually making them talk about their problems. I would love to have seen more flashbacks to how they met, insight into the issues they needed to resolve, and how they’ve grown as individuals and partners.
That being said, the romance itself was full of yearning and tension. There were plenty of adorable moments of flirtation between our two protagonists. The fact that they’d known each other for over 25 years also added to the silly, sweet nature of their relationship. There was some fake dating and a second chance romance so I recommend to those who like these tropes!
Millie Mae Rose, the Willow Pines resident florist and event planner, is hardworking and loves her small town. When her brother’s best friend, Will Carter, arrives for a visit, their unresolved feelings for one another come to a head.
Millie, Be Mine was a short and sweet small town romance! The pacing was interesting in this book. I liked the characters but I felt I didn’t really get to know them / there was more backstory we missed out on. Corlew spent time discussing how the two main characters needed to talk, without actually making them talk about their problems. I would love to have seen more flashbacks to how they met, insight into the issues they needed to resolve, and how they’ve grown as individuals and partners.
That being said, the romance itself was full of yearning and tension. There were plenty of adorable moments of flirtation between our two protagonists. The fact that they’d known each other for over 25 years also added to the silly, sweet nature of their relationship. There was some fake dating and a second chance romance so I recommend to those who like these tropes!
April 20, 2025
Small town romances are quickly becoming a favorite of mine to read and Courtney Corlew sucked me into this book so quick by featuring one of my all time favorite tropes; fake dating. On top of that it was also brother’s best friend like did Courtney just pull tropes from my fav tropes list?? Also the MMC wears a leather jacket?? And is into music?? Please, I couldn’t have put this book down even if I wanted to. Both of your main characters are family oriented which I love so much as I am also super close with my family. They are hard workers who sometimes take on too much on their plate and they don’t like to ask for help. Throughout their fake dating they are navigating their very real feelings for each other and slowly opening up to one another and accepting help. You get to follow along on their relationship growth as well as their personal growth. It was a well rounded story with a little surprise character thrown in towards the end. I am very interested to see what comes next involving this new character that’s introduced towards the end. Thank you Courtney for allowing me to ARC read this lovely book!
March 29, 2025
So much potential for this book.
Like Millie's character, I'll give you a list:
1-Glass wearing MMC. Not see that often and need to capitalize on that like maybe description of his eyes within the frame and without or maybe a cute way as a prop when he's interacting with the FMC.
2-Youth. Not a sufficient reason as to why they didn't work out. Need the MMC to work for it esp since she easily fell into his arms physically.
3-Will's sudden responsibility for Grandpa given his diagnosis should reflect more scenes of him stepping up or flashbacks to their relationship as a young child with him to show the devotion as to why he returned.
This ARC was provided by the publisher, ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#MillieBeMine #NetGalley
Like Millie's character, I'll give you a list:
1-Glass wearing MMC. Not see that often and need to capitalize on that like maybe description of his eyes within the frame and without or maybe a cute way as a prop when he's interacting with the FMC.
2-Youth. Not a sufficient reason as to why they didn't work out. Need the MMC to work for it esp since she easily fell into his arms physically.
3-Will's sudden responsibility for Grandpa given his diagnosis should reflect more scenes of him stepping up or flashbacks to their relationship as a young child with him to show the devotion as to why he returned.
This ARC was provided by the publisher, ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
#MillieBeMine #NetGalley
April 18, 2025
3.5 ☆
This was a wonderful debut! I thought the entire plot was v cute and I absolutely loved the characters. I think I would've loved a bit more depth to the characters, I didn't really feel connected to them. It felt a bit choppy in some parts, like I din't really understand what was going on sometimes but that might be a me problem. haha Overall, I had a very cutie time and I cannot wait to see what's next!
This was a wonderful debut! I thought the entire plot was v cute and I absolutely loved the characters. I think I would've loved a bit more depth to the characters, I didn't really feel connected to them. It felt a bit choppy in some parts, like I din't really understand what was going on sometimes but that might be a me problem. haha Overall, I had a very cutie time and I cannot wait to see what's next!
April 12, 2025
Even if it took years to commit, Millie and Will were destined to be together and I loved reading everything about it. I loved their sizzling chemistry, Millie’s close girlfriend group, how Millie’s parents welcomed everyone and created a safe space for them, and Will caring for his grandpa. I hope that there will be more stories about Millie and Will’s friends and family. Thank you to author Courtney Corlew for giving me the opportunity to read an arc early for my honest review.
April 9, 2025
*ARC read*
Millie be Mine is a short, sweet, small town, reverse age gap romance. The chemistry between the characters is undeniable but the story happens so quickly I just wish there had been a little more to the relationship building up.
Millie be Mine is a short, sweet, small town, reverse age gap romance. The chemistry between the characters is undeniable but the story happens so quickly I just wish there had been a little more to the relationship building up.
March 29, 2025
Second chance romances are my favorite…but this one wasn’t it for me.
I had trouble rooting for the couple, I found them to be immature and fake. It throws me off when characters are super repetitive or say things that don’t fit who they are.
I had trouble rooting for the couple, I found them to be immature and fake. It throws me off when characters are super repetitive or say things that don’t fit who they are.
April 13, 2025
ARC Review - Huge thanks to Courtney Corlew and Victory Editing for the opportunity to receive a review copy of Millie, Be Mine!
I could tell I wasn’t going to enjoy this book from early on but I really hate to DNF. In the end, I made an agreement with myself to give it my best shot until at least the 50% mark and that’s where I’ve decided to call it quits.
The writing was poor - tenses were all over the place. I initially thought it was the author’s debut, but it is actually her fourth book I believe. The characters were around age 30, but they felt incredibly immature and more akin to people in their early 20s. The ex-friend, Kira, who kept hovering around seeming ready to cause drama felt like a high school mean girl and it felt tired. The story itself felt like something written by a teenager on Wattpad.
Despite boasting a “25 year history,” there really wasn’t much of a dive into this other than the multiple mentions of them knowing each other for their entire lives (but not really much beyond that) and I really didn’t sense much chemistry between the MCs - again, something more akin to high schoolers with crushes.
Since I didn’t finish the book, I can’t say for certain, but it felt like the climax of the story hit at like 40% instead of the typical 80-90%, so I felt confused about where it could really go for another 50% after my DNF.
Im sorry to say it just felt dry and lacking in substance overall.
I could tell I wasn’t going to enjoy this book from early on but I really hate to DNF. In the end, I made an agreement with myself to give it my best shot until at least the 50% mark and that’s where I’ve decided to call it quits.
The writing was poor - tenses were all over the place. I initially thought it was the author’s debut, but it is actually her fourth book I believe. The characters were around age 30, but they felt incredibly immature and more akin to people in their early 20s. The ex-friend, Kira, who kept hovering around seeming ready to cause drama felt like a high school mean girl and it felt tired. The story itself felt like something written by a teenager on Wattpad.
Despite boasting a “25 year history,” there really wasn’t much of a dive into this other than the multiple mentions of them knowing each other for their entire lives (but not really much beyond that) and I really didn’t sense much chemistry between the MCs - again, something more akin to high schoolers with crushes.
Since I didn’t finish the book, I can’t say for certain, but it felt like the climax of the story hit at like 40% instead of the typical 80-90%, so I felt confused about where it could really go for another 50% after my DNF.
Im sorry to say it just felt dry and lacking in substance overall.
April 10, 2025
[ARC Review]
First of all, a massive THANK YOU to Courtney Corlew for letting me ARC read for her a second time—I feel so lucky!! She’s truly mastered the art of swoony, funny, heart-squeezing romance and Millie, Be Mine is no exception. This book completely stole my heart.
Now let me be honest for a second—second chance romance is not usually my go-to trope. But this?? I ate it up like I was starving. The chemistry, the history, the ache?? Ugh, I was so invested. Courtney made me feel every second of that build-up, and it worked so well.
And the tropes?? LITERALLY MY JAM. Brother’s best friend + small town romance?? Please, I’m weak. I’m such a sucker for the cozy, close-knit town setting with everyone slightly too up in each other’s business, and this book delivered it all with charm, humor, and heart.
Also, I cannot move on without screaming about the secret tattoo—I DEAD. DIED. GONE. That little microtrope moment had me kicking my feet and yelling “NO HE DIDN’T!!” I LIVE for a detail like that and Courtney delivered.
Will, OH WILL. The way I fell for this man?? Instantly. He’s soft and sweet and swoony with just enough edge to make you blush. And his banter with Millie?? Immaculate. The dialogue was quick, witty, and full of chemistry. I caught myself smiling through whole chapters and couldn’t get enough.
Courtney’s writing is warm, addicting, and packed with personality. She makes you fall in love with the characters, the town, and all the little in-between moments. This definitely won’t be my last read from her. I already can’t wait to see what she writes next!
Thank you again, Courtney, for letting me fall for Millie and Will. I adored every second.
First of all, a massive THANK YOU to Courtney Corlew for letting me ARC read for her a second time—I feel so lucky!! She’s truly mastered the art of swoony, funny, heart-squeezing romance and Millie, Be Mine is no exception. This book completely stole my heart.
Now let me be honest for a second—second chance romance is not usually my go-to trope. But this?? I ate it up like I was starving. The chemistry, the history, the ache?? Ugh, I was so invested. Courtney made me feel every second of that build-up, and it worked so well.
And the tropes?? LITERALLY MY JAM. Brother’s best friend + small town romance?? Please, I’m weak. I’m such a sucker for the cozy, close-knit town setting with everyone slightly too up in each other’s business, and this book delivered it all with charm, humor, and heart.
Also, I cannot move on without screaming about the secret tattoo—I DEAD. DIED. GONE. That little microtrope moment had me kicking my feet and yelling “NO HE DIDN’T!!” I LIVE for a detail like that and Courtney delivered.
Will, OH WILL. The way I fell for this man?? Instantly. He’s soft and sweet and swoony with just enough edge to make you blush. And his banter with Millie?? Immaculate. The dialogue was quick, witty, and full of chemistry. I caught myself smiling through whole chapters and couldn’t get enough.
Courtney’s writing is warm, addicting, and packed with personality. She makes you fall in love with the characters, the town, and all the little in-between moments. This definitely won’t be my last read from her. I already can’t wait to see what she writes next!
Thank you again, Courtney, for letting me fall for Millie and Will. I adored every second.
June 19, 2025
This is what I'd call a sleepy town novel, perfect for some light reading. It's an easy to read, sweet book that doesn't really contain much angst.
Even though they've loved each other for years, Will and Millie have very much been a slow burn couple because it's never been the right time for them to become more. Will is two years' younger than Millie so he's needed some time to figure himself out. They begin a fake relationship so Will can avoid the attention of Millie's ex-business partner with a clock ticking for how long Will is staying in town.
Will comes across as sweet and caring, and obviously really wants to win Millie back. There's a bit of mystery about his circumstance, why he's in town and for how long, and while some of it is explained, there was a part of me that thought some of it was played up a bit, and then not followed through: for example, the part about him really needing to get back to the city, and the fact that we never really got much of an explanation about what happened with his ex-fiancee. Obviously he was still in love with Millie, but it felt like there was going to be more of a story there and then there wasn't. The fact he was so cagey about opening up to Millie was a little frustrating at times.
Millie, on the other hand, is a loveable member of the town, who doesn't have enough time to do what she wants. I enjoyed the fact that we got to see her grow more comfortable with letting others help her, and I adored her little list-making obsession.
Both their characters' families and friends were great additions to the storyline, and brought addtional warmth to the book. Having been through a same thing with my own grandfather, I really felt for Will when it came to his helping his grandpa, so this had a big effect on me.
I will say that I was a bit confused by the timescale in places. At the beginning it had a bit of a steady pace, occasionally progressing a bit too slowly for my liking, but as it get closer to the end, it suddenly seems to jump quite a significant period of time, so I got a little thrown there. I did go through a little slump in the middle where I lost interest a bit where nothing really seemed to be happening, but it picked up again after Will's unexpected visitor arrives.
The ending did feel a little rushed with the larger time jump, and then the speed at which Millie and Will's relationship becomes serious and then progresses so quickly after she was planning on breaking up with him. Yes, it finally got him to open up to her about his problems, but instead of building on things from there, they were practically married immediately, and despite the fact their love story working out has been a long time coming, it felt as though they still needed to do some more work on their relationship. Just deciding to have a baby like they did grate on me a little.
I will also say that I was expecting some kind of 'blow up' between Millie and Kira (her ex business partner) at some point, especially after she was showing an interest in Will, and was a little surprised she seemed to kind of disappear in the second half of the book.
Despite my feelings about the timescale of the book, I did quite enjoy most of the storyline overall. It was very much exactly what I would expect from this cozy kind of story, and I thought that Will and Millie were adorable together.
Even though they've loved each other for years, Will and Millie have very much been a slow burn couple because it's never been the right time for them to become more. Will is two years' younger than Millie so he's needed some time to figure himself out. They begin a fake relationship so Will can avoid the attention of Millie's ex-business partner with a clock ticking for how long Will is staying in town.
Will comes across as sweet and caring, and obviously really wants to win Millie back. There's a bit of mystery about his circumstance, why he's in town and for how long, and while some of it is explained, there was a part of me that thought some of it was played up a bit, and then not followed through: for example, the part about him really needing to get back to the city, and the fact that we never really got much of an explanation about what happened with his ex-fiancee. Obviously he was still in love with Millie, but it felt like there was going to be more of a story there and then there wasn't. The fact he was so cagey about opening up to Millie was a little frustrating at times.
Millie, on the other hand, is a loveable member of the town, who doesn't have enough time to do what she wants. I enjoyed the fact that we got to see her grow more comfortable with letting others help her, and I adored her little list-making obsession.
Both their characters' families and friends were great additions to the storyline, and brought addtional warmth to the book. Having been through a same thing with my own grandfather, I really felt for Will when it came to his helping his grandpa, so this had a big effect on me.
I will say that I was a bit confused by the timescale in places. At the beginning it had a bit of a steady pace, occasionally progressing a bit too slowly for my liking, but as it get closer to the end, it suddenly seems to jump quite a significant period of time, so I got a little thrown there. I did go through a little slump in the middle where I lost interest a bit where nothing really seemed to be happening, but it picked up again after Will's unexpected visitor arrives.
The ending did feel a little rushed with the larger time jump, and then the speed at which Millie and Will's relationship becomes serious and then progresses so quickly after she was planning on breaking up with him. Yes, it finally got him to open up to her about his problems, but instead of building on things from there, they were practically married immediately, and despite the fact their love story working out has been a long time coming, it felt as though they still needed to do some more work on their relationship. Just deciding to have a baby like they did grate on me a little.
I will also say that I was expecting some kind of 'blow up' between Millie and Kira (her ex business partner) at some point, especially after she was showing an interest in Will, and was a little surprised she seemed to kind of disappear in the second half of the book.
Despite my feelings about the timescale of the book, I did quite enjoy most of the storyline overall. It was very much exactly what I would expect from this cozy kind of story, and I thought that Will and Millie were adorable together.
April 13, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Millie, Be Mine
Book #1
Willow Pines series
By Courtney Corlew
4⭐️
2 🌶️
What to expect:
Small-town romance
25+ years of history
Brother's best friend
Florist x Music Teacher
Ex-friends with benefits
Fake dating (but it feels real)
Found family
I am not one to watch Hallmark movies but I am one to read about them. This book gives you those vibes. I was honestly ready to pack up and move to Willow Pines.
The environment that is this cozy small town. I love that everyone is so wonderful and willing to help one another. Especially when it comes to Millie. Who is so cute! I loved her right away. Her love to be organized with list and always being there for everyone. My heart as she is a people pleaser.
Can I just say!! A BOSS!!! Two businesses! Her flower shop Rose & Ivy makes me want to go in there and just volunteer to help. Her event coordinating! This girl is just killing it! I loved who her people just are there for here. Ready to help and ready to be there when she is ready to actually open up after her fall out with that girl who shall not be named (HATED HER)!
MR. William Carter 😉 umm ok sir!! I see you over there! From the moment his named landed on my page I was ready for this man to get down in one knee. But he was slick with that fake dating act! (Don’t get my started on those 🌶️ scenes)
In all honesty, I just kept shouting at my pages for these to get together already! I loved the chemistry. They’re cute teasing. I just loved that he kept telling her we are end game!! UMM DUH! The whole town could’ve told you that.
My heat broke seeing him realize what was going on with his grandpa and the record store. I’m so glad he had Millie there to help him. Even though it took a little “breakup”! Will always belonged there and not in the city! Home defiantly is where the heart. His heart always belonged to Millie.
I’m so glad everything just falls into place for these two! 💕
They deserve it after fighting it for so long! Second chances and all
This book is such a cute cozy read! If you’re into small town, brother’s best friend, and all that!! You need to pick up this one!!
Thank you Courtney Corlew for the opportunity in letting me have a copy of an EARC! It was such an incredible read!!
Favorite quotes:
And her sass, that mouth, always makes my heart stutter an extra beat.
This kiss with Millie Mae Rose feels like coming home.
But Millie is my sun; I can’t help but be drawn to her.
Will laughs. His laugh is my favorite.
“I promised you interest,” he rasps against my lips. “Lower your legs for me, love.”
“For what it’s worth, I’m here for you, Millie. Whatever you want to do, I’ll do my best to be by your side. You want to go all in on events? I’m game. You want to close the flower shop more often? I encourage it. But if you want me to tell you that you can do it all… I can’t do that. You’re strong. And so capable. But you’re also missing out on so much by working yourself to the bone. And I’ve seen how exhausted you are.”
“You are already mine, Millie. Part of me has always known that. It’s why things didn’t work out with Julia.” I sigh as I recall the time I spent with her, the hurt I must have caused.
Millie, Be Mine
Book #1
Willow Pines series
By Courtney Corlew
4⭐️
2 🌶️
What to expect:
Small-town romance
25+ years of history
Brother's best friend
Florist x Music Teacher
Ex-friends with benefits
Fake dating (but it feels real)
Found family
I am not one to watch Hallmark movies but I am one to read about them. This book gives you those vibes. I was honestly ready to pack up and move to Willow Pines.
The environment that is this cozy small town. I love that everyone is so wonderful and willing to help one another. Especially when it comes to Millie. Who is so cute! I loved her right away. Her love to be organized with list and always being there for everyone. My heart as she is a people pleaser.
Can I just say!! A BOSS!!! Two businesses! Her flower shop Rose & Ivy makes me want to go in there and just volunteer to help. Her event coordinating! This girl is just killing it! I loved who her people just are there for here. Ready to help and ready to be there when she is ready to actually open up after her fall out with that girl who shall not be named (HATED HER)!
MR. William Carter 😉 umm ok sir!! I see you over there! From the moment his named landed on my page I was ready for this man to get down in one knee. But he was slick with that fake dating act! (Don’t get my started on those 🌶️ scenes)
In all honesty, I just kept shouting at my pages for these to get together already! I loved the chemistry. They’re cute teasing. I just loved that he kept telling her we are end game!! UMM DUH! The whole town could’ve told you that.
My heat broke seeing him realize what was going on with his grandpa and the record store. I’m so glad he had Millie there to help him. Even though it took a little “breakup”! Will always belonged there and not in the city! Home defiantly is where the heart. His heart always belonged to Millie.
I’m so glad everything just falls into place for these two! 💕
They deserve it after fighting it for so long! Second chances and all
This book is such a cute cozy read! If you’re into small town, brother’s best friend, and all that!! You need to pick up this one!!
Thank you Courtney Corlew for the opportunity in letting me have a copy of an EARC! It was such an incredible read!!
Favorite quotes:
And her sass, that mouth, always makes my heart stutter an extra beat.
This kiss with Millie Mae Rose feels like coming home.
But Millie is my sun; I can’t help but be drawn to her.
Will laughs. His laugh is my favorite.
“I promised you interest,” he rasps against my lips. “Lower your legs for me, love.”
“For what it’s worth, I’m here for you, Millie. Whatever you want to do, I’ll do my best to be by your side. You want to go all in on events? I’m game. You want to close the flower shop more often? I encourage it. But if you want me to tell you that you can do it all… I can’t do that. You’re strong. And so capable. But you’re also missing out on so much by working yourself to the bone. And I’ve seen how exhausted you are.”
“You are already mine, Millie. Part of me has always known that. It’s why things didn’t work out with Julia.” I sigh as I recall the time I spent with her, the hurt I must have caused.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2025
There's something mysteriously riveting about a love that has been lost and dares to bloom again in the same soil where it initially grew. Millie Be Mine is a tender unraveling of two souls bound together by past memories and hidden regrets. Millie and Will's story is fascinating in a manner that sends shivers down your spine. Their fake dating arrangement may begin as a pleasant fiction, but it quickly becomes a painful truth neither of them can take.
.
Yes, the pacing is quick—but the emotions are powerful, even in the smallest patterns. Every moment feels like a heartbeat repeating from a love that never truly died.
.
Millie Rose—florist, planner, and giver—is a lady of lists and small sacrifices, who has forgotten how to prioritize herself. Her character emerges like a flower in the sun, with delicate and sharp edges. You can feel the weight she carries: the never-ending people-pleasing, the burnout disguised as productivity, the loneliness hidden by being "useful." Her story is so moving, so painfully similar to those of us who have loved too much and expected too little of ourselves. The structure of her emotional arc—her push and pull with Will, and her failure to trust the future—is fascinating and cathartic.
.
Will is the purest form of golden retriever softness—a man with old music in his soul and an urge he can't quite suppress. His vulnerability, particularly towards his grandfather, is described with such grace that it made my chest bleed.
.
Willow Pines greets this love story like a warm, nostalgic hug. It's powerful in all the right ways, with nosy neighbors, coffee shop corners, and a relaxing small-town pace that makes every connection feel explosive. Every side character, from the wacky Miss Jane to the supportive Jeremy, has a pulse and personality that adds to the plot's fullness, vibrancy, and rich design. Millie's flower store and Will's guitar, her crisis and his calmness, her structure and his spontaneity—it all works together in a way that is addictive to read.
.
Courtney Corlew has developed something magnificent: a romance that is powerful and very inspirational. A story in which characters stumble toward each other with exposed wounds and eventually find not only love, but also rest in one another. It's heartbreaking at points, especially given its quick pace—there were times when I wished I could stay longer, to delve further into the history that created them—but it's also caring and full of light.
.
Yes, the pacing is quick—but the emotions are powerful, even in the smallest patterns. Every moment feels like a heartbeat repeating from a love that never truly died.
.
Millie Rose—florist, planner, and giver—is a lady of lists and small sacrifices, who has forgotten how to prioritize herself. Her character emerges like a flower in the sun, with delicate and sharp edges. You can feel the weight she carries: the never-ending people-pleasing, the burnout disguised as productivity, the loneliness hidden by being "useful." Her story is so moving, so painfully similar to those of us who have loved too much and expected too little of ourselves. The structure of her emotional arc—her push and pull with Will, and her failure to trust the future—is fascinating and cathartic.
.
Will is the purest form of golden retriever softness—a man with old music in his soul and an urge he can't quite suppress. His vulnerability, particularly towards his grandfather, is described with such grace that it made my chest bleed.
.
Willow Pines greets this love story like a warm, nostalgic hug. It's powerful in all the right ways, with nosy neighbors, coffee shop corners, and a relaxing small-town pace that makes every connection feel explosive. Every side character, from the wacky Miss Jane to the supportive Jeremy, has a pulse and personality that adds to the plot's fullness, vibrancy, and rich design. Millie's flower store and Will's guitar, her crisis and his calmness, her structure and his spontaneity—it all works together in a way that is addictive to read.
.
Courtney Corlew has developed something magnificent: a romance that is powerful and very inspirational. A story in which characters stumble toward each other with exposed wounds and eventually find not only love, but also rest in one another. It's heartbreaking at points, especially given its quick pace—there were times when I wished I could stay longer, to delve further into the history that created them—but it's also caring and full of light.
May 17, 2025
Odié a Will. Maldito cobarde, bueno para nada. No entiendo cómo Millie pudo darle otra oportunidad cuando claramente no se lo merecía.
Todo el libro gira en torno a lo que ese tipejo quiere: quiere a Millie, y la tiene… pero a escondidas. Ya no quiere estar con ella, así que la deja. Luego se compromete con otra, y cuando esa relación fracasa, quiere que Millie regrese como si nada. Y claro, como la buena tonta que es, ella no puede decirle que no, sin importar que él jamás la eligió realmente. Solo está de vuelta en el pueblo porque su prometida lo dejó y por su abuelo.
Will y Millie estuvieron juntos en secreto durante años, hasta que ella le pidió que se quedara. Pero él quería “algo mejor” para su vida, así que la dejó y se fue a la ciudad. Allí le fue bien, conoció a otra mujer, se enamoró rápidamente y se comprometió. Cuando eso no funcionó, volvió para ayudar a su abuelo. No regresó por Millie, ni para luchar por ella, sino por obligación. Mientras tanto, Millie seguía sin poder olvidarlo 🙄. Ella merecía algo mucho mejor que ser su segunda opción.
Al final, resulta que no estaba enamorado de Julia (su ex prometida). Bueno, sí la amaba… pero "no como a Millie"🙄. Aun así, decidió abandonar a quien supuestamente era el amor de su vida, salir con otra y hasta proponerle matrimonio, mientras Millie lo miraba todo desde lejos con el corazón hecho pedazos. Y lo peor: él solo volvió por dos semanas para ayudar a alguien más, no por ella -repetiré esto una y otra vez que ella nunca fue su primera opción-. Toda una decepción, ese tal Will.
Millie fue una completa tonta al aceptar ser su novia falsa solo para que Kira lo dejara en paz. Es decir, ¡ni siquiera tuvo el valor de presentarla como su verdadera pareja! Para Will, ella solo fue buena para unos cuantos momentos robados durante siete años. Así como lo leen: siete años de mantenerla en secreto, como si fuera una vergüenza. Y luego va, elige a otra y la presume. Y ahora, solo porque está en un lío, de repente Millie sí es suficiente para que finja que es su novia. Claro… solo para librarse de otra mujer.
Una lástima que Millie no tuviera un poco de carácter o amor propio. Ni siquiera lo hizo esforzarse por su perdón. No. Cayó rendida en sus brazos como si nada. Un horror. Will no hizo ni lo mínimo para demostrar que había cambiado o que se arrepentía.
April 11, 2025
A huge thank you to Courtney Corlew for allowing me to read an E-Arc of this novel, I am super grateful. These thoughts are my own. In Millie, Be Mine, our FMC is Millie, a small-town event planner/florist who is the definition of a people pleaser and our MMC is Will, a guitar player who is Millie's brothers' best friend and her former friends with benefits who moved away to the city. When the book starts, Will is back in town to check in on his aging grandpa. This book had all the makings of a good romance - the tropes are some of my favorites from brothers' best friend to found family to second chance romance and the small town is cozy and adorable, but this book just didn't hit the mark.
We have to start with the things that I liked - Courtney Corlew created a lovely cast of characters and a cozy small town. The characters all had depth - Millie being a people pleaser who is running herself a bit thin between event planning and running her flower shop. She also has an obsession with writing to do lists and as a Virgo with ADHD, I related to that a lot. Will is a guitar player who needed to get out of their small town for a bit, he never quite felt at home in the city like he wanted and had a failed engagement while there. Millie's parents & friends were supportive and fun. I really liked the quirky Miss Jane and meddling ways.
Now, the things I did not enjoy as much- their reason for fake dating was flimsy, like he really just needed to tell a woman that he wasn't interested in her but decided it would be better to fake date Millie. The story would have been the same if they had just picked up their friends with benefits arrangement due to being back in town at the same time. We are told a lot that they have deep feelings for each other due to their past and how long they have known each other but I never felt like we were shown that - like the spark just wasn't there. I also felt like all of the things they had going on in their lives really took away from them as a couple making the romance feel like more of a side plot. I do wish that things had been handled differently with Will's grandpa and his dementia but that could be just based on my own experiences with my grandma.
Check out this review and more on my blog: https://bibliophilebree.blogspot.com/...
We have to start with the things that I liked - Courtney Corlew created a lovely cast of characters and a cozy small town. The characters all had depth - Millie being a people pleaser who is running herself a bit thin between event planning and running her flower shop. She also has an obsession with writing to do lists and as a Virgo with ADHD, I related to that a lot. Will is a guitar player who needed to get out of their small town for a bit, he never quite felt at home in the city like he wanted and had a failed engagement while there. Millie's parents & friends were supportive and fun. I really liked the quirky Miss Jane and meddling ways.
Now, the things I did not enjoy as much- their reason for fake dating was flimsy, like he really just needed to tell a woman that he wasn't interested in her but decided it would be better to fake date Millie. The story would have been the same if they had just picked up their friends with benefits arrangement due to being back in town at the same time. We are told a lot that they have deep feelings for each other due to their past and how long they have known each other but I never felt like we were shown that - like the spark just wasn't there. I also felt like all of the things they had going on in their lives really took away from them as a couple making the romance feel like more of a side plot. I do wish that things had been handled differently with Will's grandpa and his dementia but that could be just based on my own experiences with my grandma.
Check out this review and more on my blog: https://bibliophilebree.blogspot.com/...
May 24, 2025
You know you're in for a deeply touching story when a romance is set in a little town like Willow Pines. The peaceful, routine rhythms of existence may provide the ideal setting for the most appealing, intensely emotional interactions, as Millie Be Mine brilliantly unfolds . It is complicated, rich with history, and characterized by the weight of unsaid moments and the sweeping impact of second chances.
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The varied mechanics of Millie and Will's relationship were gradually displayed in a way that made it seem earned, and I found it to be utterly absorbed. Their journey is packed with moving moments, tinged with the understanding that the right sort of love can always come back, from their shared past to their undying draw toward one another in the present. Although they have a riveting chemistry, there is a subliminal tension that makes the reader uneasy and makes them question if they will be able to get over the barriers they have erected over the years.
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This second-chance relationship is managed with a certain grace that doesn't downplay the nuanced feelings at play. Millie's path is made all the more interesting by her battles with being a people-pleaser, as she is torn between her personal desires, her family's needs, and the demands of her business. Will's return to Willow Pines upends their relationship, and their journey toward rediscovery—replete with sensitive moments, humorous miscommunications, and very human imperfections—becomes a source of relief for the reader and the characters. Their slow-burning yet immediate passion has a gripping pace, full of the painful tension that only a second-chance love can deliver.
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The story of Millie Be Mine is about finding courage to move on amid past failures and unsolved problems, not only about two people who fell in love once and are now attempting to do it again. While the romance is certainly heart-stopping, and steamy there are multiple details that make you fall in love with this book, with its well-balanced mix of sweetness and spiciness this gets five stars for me, and this won't be my last read from this Author.
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The varied mechanics of Millie and Will's relationship were gradually displayed in a way that made it seem earned, and I found it to be utterly absorbed. Their journey is packed with moving moments, tinged with the understanding that the right sort of love can always come back, from their shared past to their undying draw toward one another in the present. Although they have a riveting chemistry, there is a subliminal tension that makes the reader uneasy and makes them question if they will be able to get over the barriers they have erected over the years.
.
This second-chance relationship is managed with a certain grace that doesn't downplay the nuanced feelings at play. Millie's path is made all the more interesting by her battles with being a people-pleaser, as she is torn between her personal desires, her family's needs, and the demands of her business. Will's return to Willow Pines upends their relationship, and their journey toward rediscovery—replete with sensitive moments, humorous miscommunications, and very human imperfections—becomes a source of relief for the reader and the characters. Their slow-burning yet immediate passion has a gripping pace, full of the painful tension that only a second-chance love can deliver.
.
The story of Millie Be Mine is about finding courage to move on amid past failures and unsolved problems, not only about two people who fell in love once and are now attempting to do it again. While the romance is certainly heart-stopping, and steamy there are multiple details that make you fall in love with this book, with its well-balanced mix of sweetness and spiciness this gets five stars for me, and this won't be my last read from this Author.
May 24, 2025
I found myself utterly addicted with Millie and Will. I immediately identified with Millie because of her to-do lists and constant prioritization of the needs of others before her own. As a woman managing career, family, and the continual pressure to perform flawlessly, I couldn't help but relate with her.
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Will is just too strong to resist. He is the type of man that has a pure heart but can be a touch rough around the edges. His fragility, his desire to care for his family, and the way he allows himself to be strong and tender at the same time are all very cute. It's impossible not to be moved by the way Will supports his grandfather in spite of everything he's going through in his own life. Their relationship is so touching. You are undoubtedly enchanted by Will and Millie's relationship as they are compelled to attend the town's spring festival together.
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I was completely invested in seeing them walk this fine line between fake dating and true feelings, and it's the ideal amount of sweet and steamy. Willow Pines's small-town setting is cozy, inviting, and rich in history, making it a perfect setting for this story. From Millie's encouraging friends and family to the well-meaning Miss Jane, every character is wonderfully relatable and vibrant. Whether it was the description of Millie's flower store or the way Will casually returned to town life, I couldn't help but smile at every small detail.
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There is a strong feeling of belonging and community, and I adored watching Millie and Will's romance develop in such a tight-knit setting. I was truly inspired to gather my belongings and travel to Willow Pines personally. They have a beautiful, romantic, and definitely swoon-worthy romance. I'll be suggesting this book to everyone who like a lovely, small-town love story with lots of heart and soul. It's a quick, entertaining read that will activate every cell in your heart.
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Will is just too strong to resist. He is the type of man that has a pure heart but can be a touch rough around the edges. His fragility, his desire to care for his family, and the way he allows himself to be strong and tender at the same time are all very cute. It's impossible not to be moved by the way Will supports his grandfather in spite of everything he's going through in his own life. Their relationship is so touching. You are undoubtedly enchanted by Will and Millie's relationship as they are compelled to attend the town's spring festival together.
.
I was completely invested in seeing them walk this fine line between fake dating and true feelings, and it's the ideal amount of sweet and steamy. Willow Pines's small-town setting is cozy, inviting, and rich in history, making it a perfect setting for this story. From Millie's encouraging friends and family to the well-meaning Miss Jane, every character is wonderfully relatable and vibrant. Whether it was the description of Millie's flower store or the way Will casually returned to town life, I couldn't help but smile at every small detail.
.
There is a strong feeling of belonging and community, and I adored watching Millie and Will's romance develop in such a tight-knit setting. I was truly inspired to gather my belongings and travel to Willow Pines personally. They have a beautiful, romantic, and definitely swoon-worthy romance. I'll be suggesting this book to everyone who like a lovely, small-town love story with lots of heart and soul. It's a quick, entertaining read that will activate every cell in your heart.
April 12, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Thank you to Courtney Corlew for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Spoilers ahead read with caution!
This was my first Courtney Corlew book, and I was initially hooked by blurb! I love a brother’s best friend, and fake dating. Millie Be Mine is also a second chance, small town romance.
Honestly, I wanted to like this so badly. It wasn’t outstanding, and it wasn’t terrible. It felt more like a second chance romance more than any of the other tropes above. The fake dating felt kind of like an after thought. I felt as though the conflict was more removed from them, and some of the plot points like Will’s grandfather’s dementia, Millie taking on too many commitments, the fake dating —
that never really felt fake, or Kira being introduced as this major antagonist who only needed up being present a total of maybe three times throughout(??), as well as the major driving event of the Spring Festival that they’re supposed to be planning together, were just kind of there and not really pushing the story forward. It seemed like there were too many elements trying to be pushed into one story.
There were a few little things in this story that felt like too much of a broad stroke; i.e. “the center in the city”, consistently referring to Knoxville as “the city” — which i know is a thing in small towns across the states, and just the general vagueness throughout. The pacing was a little off, the passage of time didn’t feel fluid, and plot-wise having all of the spice at the very end didn’t make sense to me. Additionally not learning about the significance of Will’s tattoos which are also minimally brought up until the epilogue took away from the story a bit for me.
All in all if you want a semi-sweet, semi-spicy, small town, second chance, low stakes romance give Millie Be Mine a chance!
Thank you to Courtney Corlew for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Spoilers ahead read with caution!
This was my first Courtney Corlew book, and I was initially hooked by blurb! I love a brother’s best friend, and fake dating. Millie Be Mine is also a second chance, small town romance.
Honestly, I wanted to like this so badly. It wasn’t outstanding, and it wasn’t terrible. It felt more like a second chance romance more than any of the other tropes above. The fake dating felt kind of like an after thought. I felt as though the conflict was more removed from them, and some of the plot points like Will’s grandfather’s dementia, Millie taking on too many commitments, the fake dating —
that never really felt fake, or Kira being introduced as this major antagonist who only needed up being present a total of maybe three times throughout(??), as well as the major driving event of the Spring Festival that they’re supposed to be planning together, were just kind of there and not really pushing the story forward. It seemed like there were too many elements trying to be pushed into one story.
There were a few little things in this story that felt like too much of a broad stroke; i.e. “the center in the city”, consistently referring to Knoxville as “the city” — which i know is a thing in small towns across the states, and just the general vagueness throughout. The pacing was a little off, the passage of time didn’t feel fluid, and plot-wise having all of the spice at the very end didn’t make sense to me. Additionally not learning about the significance of Will’s tattoos which are also minimally brought up until the epilogue took away from the story a bit for me.
All in all if you want a semi-sweet, semi-spicy, small town, second chance, low stakes romance give Millie Be Mine a chance!
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