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Dove Point #2
Swept Away
Riley has spent her life chasing approval, trying to be everything she was expected to be. Now, on the edge of turning thirty, she’s questioning whether it was all worth it—and whether the love she’s been chasing her whole life is even the right one.
After losing his once-close friendship with Riley, August poured all his focus into running the family business in Dove Point, knowing he would take over one day. But when his father faces an unexpected illness, August is forced to step up sooner than planned, leaving him weighed down by responsibility and doubt.
While Riley struggles under family expectations and August carries the weight of a future he didn’t expect, they find themselves reaching for the safe space they once shared—and the chance to start over.
After losing his once-close friendship with Riley, August poured all his focus into running the family business in Dove Point, knowing he would take over one day. But when his father faces an unexpected illness, August is forced to step up sooner than planned, leaving him weighed down by responsibility and doubt.
While Riley struggles under family expectations and August carries the weight of a future he didn’t expect, they find themselves reaching for the safe space they once shared—and the chance to start over.
338 pages, Paperback
Published May 8, 2026
About the author
M. Colette
3 books43 followersA small-town romance author who always loves a happy ending. I love stories with strong, female character leads, no matter the genre. I'm a mood reader through and through! Some of my favorite books are, ACTOAR (series) by SJM, TOG (series) by SJM, Wild Love by Elsie Silver, Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston, Fourth Wing (series) by Rebecca Yarros, and The Windy City series by Liz Tomforde.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
June 25, 2026
Thank you M. Colette for the advanced reader copy of Swept Away. Book two in the Dove Point series.
This was a slow burn filled with two friends who both love each other but something always gets in the way. Namely, Riley and her feelings of low self-worth. Augustus is a walking green flag, willing to wait forever and do whatever it takes.
There is mental health representation, a bit of meddling siblings, a narcissistic and toxic family member, some drunken shenanigans, quite a bit of miscommunication, cancer and it’s effects on the family around it, a great friend group, a lot of fun banter, a sloooooow burn, and growth and finding your way.
The set up for the next book was great! Fake Dating just happens to be my favorite, so I’ll keep my eyes out for that one.
This was a slow burn filled with two friends who both love each other but something always gets in the way. Namely, Riley and her feelings of low self-worth. Augustus is a walking green flag, willing to wait forever and do whatever it takes.
There is mental health representation, a bit of meddling siblings, a narcissistic and toxic family member, some drunken shenanigans, quite a bit of miscommunication, cancer and it’s effects on the family around it, a great friend group, a lot of fun banter, a sloooooow burn, and growth and finding your way.
The set up for the next book was great! Fake Dating just happens to be my favorite, so I’ll keep my eyes out for that one.
April 10, 2026
Swept Away
More like Swept me Away because HELP this book has my heart and soul!
Such a heartfelt emotionally charged and meaningful book. Everything I could have wanted and hoped for was present and done excruciatingly well. The YEARNING… The TENSION… The BANTER… The FLIRTING. All incredibly involved and relatable with off the charts consistency throughout the book.
The unique thing that stood out to me the most was the representation of mental health struggles through both main characters. Oh August. My heart reached for you because I felt seen and heard with your struggles throughout the book and how they were portrayed made the character seem realistic on a whole different level.
Riley. Girl, I needed to see and hear those struggles too. It’s hard to reshape your mindset after years of enduring and self-doubt.
On the flip side there was a lot of emotional aspects to the plot and surrounding characters that kept me invested, and really made me care about what was happening to the point that I couldn’t stop reading forward.
The heavy topics that the author tackles were done with grace, understanding, and care that really transferred to the reader as I progressed through the book. I really appreciate the author taking the time to handle those topics throughly instead using it as a shock value or filler that I’ve felt in other books.
It is so rare to feel this connected to both main characters that I was pleasantly surprised and enthralled to be wrapped up and experiencing life in Dove Point.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
More like Swept me Away because HELP this book has my heart and soul!
Such a heartfelt emotionally charged and meaningful book. Everything I could have wanted and hoped for was present and done excruciatingly well. The YEARNING… The TENSION… The BANTER… The FLIRTING. All incredibly involved and relatable with off the charts consistency throughout the book.
The unique thing that stood out to me the most was the representation of mental health struggles through both main characters. Oh August. My heart reached for you because I felt seen and heard with your struggles throughout the book and how they were portrayed made the character seem realistic on a whole different level.
Riley. Girl, I needed to see and hear those struggles too. It’s hard to reshape your mindset after years of enduring and self-doubt.
On the flip side there was a lot of emotional aspects to the plot and surrounding characters that kept me invested, and really made me care about what was happening to the point that I couldn’t stop reading forward.
The heavy topics that the author tackles were done with grace, understanding, and care that really transferred to the reader as I progressed through the book. I really appreciate the author taking the time to handle those topics throughly instead using it as a shock value or filler that I’ve felt in other books.
It is so rare to feel this connected to both main characters that I was pleasantly surprised and enthralled to be wrapped up and experiencing life in Dove Point.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 22, 2026
4.25⭐️I’m so honored to have been chosen to be an arc reader for Swept Away.
In this story we follow a best friends brother trope with two characters who have known each other forever.
Personally, I feel like the reason why the never worked out when they were younger made sense and I loved how their relationship progressed overtime, with the help of the other characters.
Overall, such a sweet story and perfectly sets up for the next book for Dove Point.
In this story we follow a best friends brother trope with two characters who have known each other forever.
Personally, I feel like the reason why the never worked out when they were younger made sense and I loved how their relationship progressed overtime, with the help of the other characters.
Overall, such a sweet story and perfectly sets up for the next book for Dove Point.
April 17, 2026
Swept away arc
Where do I even begin with this one? 😭my HEART!
Having the honor of reading both books in this series as an ARC was such a privilege. I’ve been counting down the days since I finished book one until I got my hands on a copy of this book. The MOMENT arc opportunity opened for this book I SPRINTED to sign up, and have enjoyed every single minute of it. (And I may have preordered a signed copy. I need me a trophy 🏆). This is one of those stories that will always hit home and hit the heart deeply.
Riley and August are officially the cutest book couple—P.E.R.I.O.D. ☁️✨
Between the "best friend’s brother" trope and their history as former best friends, their dynamic is e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g! Watching them navigate a life-changing vacation and overcome their hardships together was such an incredible experience.
What truly set this book apart for me was the mental health representation. It was raw, honest, and handled with such care and so authentic. Seeing these struggles depicted so realistically touched me on such a deeper level. My heart was completely broken and then put back together by the end of this book.
⚠️ A quick note: This story tackles some heavy, realistic themes, so please check the trigger warnings before diving in!
Tropes:
🧁small costal town
🧁best friend’s brother
🧁Mexico vacation
🧁 he does hot yoga
🧁HEA
🧁forced proximity
🧁banter as forplay
🧁slow burn
🧁friends to lovers
🧁open door spice
Favorite Quotes:
“The way she treats my hair is the same way Mother Gothel treats Rapunzel's hair.”
"The devil himself would cry if he were able to admire how beautiful you are when you're on your knees for me."
“Like being on some kind of love drug, where you taste colors and hear sound. The high is so good that you're fighting the comedown.”
Where do I even begin with this one? 😭my HEART!
Having the honor of reading both books in this series as an ARC was such a privilege. I’ve been counting down the days since I finished book one until I got my hands on a copy of this book. The MOMENT arc opportunity opened for this book I SPRINTED to sign up, and have enjoyed every single minute of it. (And I may have preordered a signed copy. I need me a trophy 🏆). This is one of those stories that will always hit home and hit the heart deeply.
Riley and August are officially the cutest book couple—P.E.R.I.O.D. ☁️✨
Between the "best friend’s brother" trope and their history as former best friends, their dynamic is e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g! Watching them navigate a life-changing vacation and overcome their hardships together was such an incredible experience.
What truly set this book apart for me was the mental health representation. It was raw, honest, and handled with such care and so authentic. Seeing these struggles depicted so realistically touched me on such a deeper level. My heart was completely broken and then put back together by the end of this book.
⚠️ A quick note: This story tackles some heavy, realistic themes, so please check the trigger warnings before diving in!
Tropes:
🧁small costal town
🧁best friend’s brother
🧁Mexico vacation
🧁 he does hot yoga
🧁HEA
🧁forced proximity
🧁banter as forplay
🧁slow burn
🧁friends to lovers
🧁open door spice
Favorite Quotes:
“The way she treats my hair is the same way Mother Gothel treats Rapunzel's hair.”
"The devil himself would cry if he were able to admire how beautiful you are when you're on your knees for me."
“Like being on some kind of love drug, where you taste colors and hear sound. The high is so good that you're fighting the comedown.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2026
You will totally get swept away by this slow burn, childhood friends turned crush romance book. Swept Away by Monica Collette captures the charm of a small town, Dove Point, small businesses and interwoven friends and characters. This is book 2 but not having read book one yet myself, you can totally get into it. Riley is a strong FMC with a supportive best friend, fiery sister but a whole bunch of issues surrounding Mom and Dad. I found this incredibly refreshing as relationships with your parents in your 30's isn't always easy. With her parents separating, Riley gets thrown into the middle of the divorce by her narcissistic mom and the mother-daughter complex that some of us face was very realistic. She gets through it by throwing herself into work - opening a bakery with Ellie and bestie from book 1 of the series. She doesn't have life all figured out yet and neither does her childhood crush and Ellie's brother, August. Struggling himself, August is our MMC. He is trying to take over his dad's position at the family business while he's going through a lot of health concerns. I don't know about you, but I connect with characters that are raw and real when it comes to their strengths and weaknesses. August has problems with math, ADHD and being open and honest about his love for Riley. Riley is the solution to August's math problem but she has a hard time moving past her parent's marriage issues to learn to trust and love someone else. What you will love is how these two navigate this gray area with a slow burn that will lead to a happy ending. How they get there, you'll have to find out. Make Dove Point a place on your spring reads road map. Monica is an author you will want to keep on your must list!
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 23, 2026
Best friends to lovers is one of my all-time favorite romance tropes, so I was excited to see it as a central theme in Swept Away! This story does touch on some potentially triggering topics, but I really appreciated how thoughtfully it handled moments of grief and shifting family dynamics.
Riley’s mom was a difficult character for me to accept. She was not nurturing at all, and some of the things she said and did to Riley were heartbreaking. It was painful to see how much of that trauma Riley carried with her throughout her life.
I thought August was a wonderful example of someone living with ADHD. M. Colette’s descriptions made his struggles feel very real at times. I also loved how supportive his family was, and how much that shaped who he became. His compassion and love for others clearly stem from the examples set for him in his younger years.
Riley could be frustrating at times. While I can’t imagine growing up with such a cold mother, she had many people willing to support her emotionally. At times, it felt like she pushed that love away, and I found myself asking “why?!” during certain moments.
The banter between Riley and August was perfect—definitely a strong point of their story. I also enjoyed how the book gave us a deeper look into their friends and family. There’s plenty of banter among those characters as well, which added to the overall charm.
Thank you to M. Colette for the ARC in exchange for my review. This was a sweet, heartfelt childhood friends-to-lovers story.
Riley’s mom was a difficult character for me to accept. She was not nurturing at all, and some of the things she said and did to Riley were heartbreaking. It was painful to see how much of that trauma Riley carried with her throughout her life.
I thought August was a wonderful example of someone living with ADHD. M. Colette’s descriptions made his struggles feel very real at times. I also loved how supportive his family was, and how much that shaped who he became. His compassion and love for others clearly stem from the examples set for him in his younger years.
Riley could be frustrating at times. While I can’t imagine growing up with such a cold mother, she had many people willing to support her emotionally. At times, it felt like she pushed that love away, and I found myself asking “why?!” during certain moments.
The banter between Riley and August was perfect—definitely a strong point of their story. I also enjoyed how the book gave us a deeper look into their friends and family. There’s plenty of banter among those characters as well, which added to the overall charm.
Thank you to M. Colette for the ARC in exchange for my review. This was a sweet, heartfelt childhood friends-to-lovers story.
April 16, 2026
I jumped at the chance to read Swept Away by M. Colette (book two in the Dove Point series) the second I saw the blurb, and I’m happy to report you absolutely don’t need to read book one to fall headfirst into this story.
Riley and August have history… the kind that lingers. Years ago, Riley let him go when things started getting real, and she’s been carrying that quiet regret ever since. So when they find their way back into each other’s lives, it’s like no time has passed, just unfinished feelings waiting to be dealt with.
The slow burn here? So well done. Their banter is easy, natural, and honestly just comfortable to read. You can feel the familiarity between them in every interaction, which makes the tension hit even harder.
Both Riley and August are navigating their own mental health struggles, and I really appreciated how that was handled. Watching them grow individually while also learning how to show up for each other felt genuine and grounded. August’s ADHD struggles especially hit hard at times, and I was rooting for him every step of the way.
Second chance romances can be hit or miss, but this one absolutely delivered. Add in a cast of side characters who bring humor and charm without stealing the spotlight, and it made for such an enjoyable read.
Safe to say I’ll be picking up more from M. Colette because this one fully pulled me in.
Riley and August have history… the kind that lingers. Years ago, Riley let him go when things started getting real, and she’s been carrying that quiet regret ever since. So when they find their way back into each other’s lives, it’s like no time has passed, just unfinished feelings waiting to be dealt with.
The slow burn here? So well done. Their banter is easy, natural, and honestly just comfortable to read. You can feel the familiarity between them in every interaction, which makes the tension hit even harder.
Both Riley and August are navigating their own mental health struggles, and I really appreciated how that was handled. Watching them grow individually while also learning how to show up for each other felt genuine and grounded. August’s ADHD struggles especially hit hard at times, and I was rooting for him every step of the way.
Second chance romances can be hit or miss, but this one absolutely delivered. Add in a cast of side characters who bring humor and charm without stealing the spotlight, and it made for such an enjoyable read.
Safe to say I’ll be picking up more from M. Colette because this one fully pulled me in.
April 16, 2026
This book swept me away and I couldn’t put it down!
This book is emotionally charged and you will FEEL it.
Yearning? ✔️
Banter? ✔️
Tension? ✔️
Flirting? ✔️
Slow burn? ✔️
All the tough emotional aspects of this book are handled so well by the author. It made me really care about the characters and I could even relate with some of it! Second chance romances can be hit or miss, but the author nails it.
Also that ending… are you kidding me? I need the next book ASAP.
This book is emotionally charged and you will FEEL it.
Yearning? ✔️
Banter? ✔️
Tension? ✔️
Flirting? ✔️
Slow burn? ✔️
All the tough emotional aspects of this book are handled so well by the author. It made me really care about the characters and I could even relate with some of it! Second chance romances can be hit or miss, but the author nails it.
Also that ending… are you kidding me? I need the next book ASAP.
April 12, 2026
Thank you to the author of this book for sending me an arc copy of this book!! I’ll admit I wasn’t so sure if I’d like this book in the beginning but as I continued reading I started to really enjoy this book!!! Riley and August are adorable!!! I’ll admit I cried once I started getting more into the book!! I loved this book!! Thank you again to M Collette for sending me an arc!!
May 8, 2026
Arc Review
Swept Away by M. Colette
4.5⭐️
Banter, tension, yearning and flirting for dayyys! August and Riley are hopeless for each other and refuse to admit they have undeniable chemistry and love for each other because of their history, so they instead flirt and test the waters to get under each other’s skin. The slow burn was burning and it was a constant will they won’t they throughout the entire book, but when they finally do, boy oh boy was it steamy. August has a filthy mouth and I loved every moment of it. I wasn’t expecting it (and I doubt Riley did either) so it was a pleasant surprise to see a different side of August. Both characters were dealing with their own set of challenges, but seeing them face it head on and with the support that they needed showed perfect character development.
The heavy topics were handled beautifully by the author and was done with grace, compassion, and understanding for anyone who has/is going through the same things. None of the heavy parts of the book felt like it was a second thought to just check off a list of tropes or filler material, they all felt necessary to the plot to show character growth and depth.
This was my first book by the author and it definitely won’t be my last, especially because I need to know what happens next!
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Swept Away by M. Colette
4.5⭐️
Banter, tension, yearning and flirting for dayyys! August and Riley are hopeless for each other and refuse to admit they have undeniable chemistry and love for each other because of their history, so they instead flirt and test the waters to get under each other’s skin. The slow burn was burning and it was a constant will they won’t they throughout the entire book, but when they finally do, boy oh boy was it steamy. August has a filthy mouth and I loved every moment of it. I wasn’t expecting it (and I doubt Riley did either) so it was a pleasant surprise to see a different side of August. Both characters were dealing with their own set of challenges, but seeing them face it head on and with the support that they needed showed perfect character development.
The heavy topics were handled beautifully by the author and was done with grace, compassion, and understanding for anyone who has/is going through the same things. None of the heavy parts of the book felt like it was a second thought to just check off a list of tropes or filler material, they all felt necessary to the plot to show character growth and depth.
This was my first book by the author and it definitely won’t be my last, especially because I need to know what happens next!
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 7, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
apparently I just love men named August! I can’t help it! It’s a sickness!
riley and august were so sweet, and the found family in this series is beautiful!
also so excited for beau and hailey’s book, one of my fave tropes!!!!
apparently I just love men named August! I can’t help it! It’s a sickness!
riley and august were so sweet, and the found family in this series is beautiful!
also so excited for beau and hailey’s book, one of my fave tropes!!!!
May 9, 2026
I recived this book early from the author and I am giving my honest opinion on the book!
Review: I honestly loved this book so much and I've been saying that... alot... BUT ITS TRUE! August and Riley are so cute together and the miscommunication trope is amazing in this book and normally im not one for slow burns but this book... this book was chefs kiss 💋 like the yearning in the book made me love it more and more!! And M. Colette knows how to hook a reader!! AND THE ENDING!?! Give me the next book right nowwwww!! I do want to say thank you for the amazing opportunity to read this book and hopefully i get the chance to read the next one as an ARC too!!
Review: I honestly loved this book so much and I've been saying that... alot... BUT ITS TRUE! August and Riley are so cute together and the miscommunication trope is amazing in this book and normally im not one for slow burns but this book... this book was chefs kiss 💋 like the yearning in the book made me love it more and more!! And M. Colette knows how to hook a reader!! AND THE ENDING!?! Give me the next book right nowwwww!! I do want to say thank you for the amazing opportunity to read this book and hopefully i get the chance to read the next one as an ARC too!!
Read
June 2, 2026Rating: 4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was my first M. Colette book, so I went in not knowing what to expect, but what HOOKED me, like fully reeled me in, was an Instagram post about some dirty talk and slutty little glasses… and I was DONE FOR, okay???
I immediately signed up for the ARC and prayed I’d get it, and somehow the author/pub gods were on my side, so thank you for the copy!!
FIRST OF ALL, if you take anything from this review, let it be this: I read this book in ONE. SITTING. I did not plan to lose my entire Sunday to it, but that’s exactly what happened. I thought I’d read for an hour as a little treat and then go about my day… yeah, no. I physically could not put it down.
THE YEARNING??? IT YEARNED.
THE SLOW BURN??? IT BURNED ME TO MY BONES.
I have a very hit-or-miss relationship with friends-to-lovers because sometimes it just feels like miscommunication drama that didn’t need to exist. But THIS?? This was layered. Childhood trauma, relationship trauma, blurred lines, and a friendship that was completely wrecked because of it. It made sense.
August never, ever gave up on Riley. This man really said, “she will be mine one day,” and stood on it. Top-tier book boyfriend behavior.
Riley grew up in a toxic home that completely shaped how she views love and relationships. Now that her parents have finally divorced, she’s left questioning everything, what if she’s not enough? what if people always leave? She knows August loved her, and she ran from it. And she hasn’t forgiven herself since. But that little “what if?” never really goes away.
And August?? He’s been gone for her for YEARS. She was there for him during some of the hardest parts of his life, and he’s never let that go. Even after confessing his feelings and getting rejected, he just… kept loving her anyway, while pouring himself into his family and their business after his dad’s diagnosis.
Once this book picks up steam, it does NOT slow down. And when the tension finally snaps??? Yeah… August has a filthy mouth and absolutely knows how to use it.
Micro-tropes:
- Elevator scene
- Slutty little glasses
- Mirror s*x
- Making bets
- Possessive MMC
- ADHD rep
I will 100% be going back and reading more from M. Colette because she is officially an auto-buy author for me now. If you want something emotional, angsty, full of history, insane yearning, and spice with a satisfying payoff, put this at the TOP of your TBR.
Thank you again to M. Colette and the publisher for the e-arc copy!
This was my first M. Colette book, so I went in not knowing what to expect, but what HOOKED me, like fully reeled me in, was an Instagram post about some dirty talk and slutty little glasses… and I was DONE FOR, okay???
I immediately signed up for the ARC and prayed I’d get it, and somehow the author/pub gods were on my side, so thank you for the copy!!
FIRST OF ALL, if you take anything from this review, let it be this: I read this book in ONE. SITTING. I did not plan to lose my entire Sunday to it, but that’s exactly what happened. I thought I’d read for an hour as a little treat and then go about my day… yeah, no. I physically could not put it down.
THE YEARNING??? IT YEARNED.
THE SLOW BURN??? IT BURNED ME TO MY BONES.
I have a very hit-or-miss relationship with friends-to-lovers because sometimes it just feels like miscommunication drama that didn’t need to exist. But THIS?? This was layered. Childhood trauma, relationship trauma, blurred lines, and a friendship that was completely wrecked because of it. It made sense.
August never, ever gave up on Riley. This man really said, “she will be mine one day,” and stood on it. Top-tier book boyfriend behavior.
Riley grew up in a toxic home that completely shaped how she views love and relationships. Now that her parents have finally divorced, she’s left questioning everything, what if she’s not enough? what if people always leave? She knows August loved her, and she ran from it. And she hasn’t forgiven herself since. But that little “what if?” never really goes away.
And August?? He’s been gone for her for YEARS. She was there for him during some of the hardest parts of his life, and he’s never let that go. Even after confessing his feelings and getting rejected, he just… kept loving her anyway, while pouring himself into his family and their business after his dad’s diagnosis.
Once this book picks up steam, it does NOT slow down. And when the tension finally snaps??? Yeah… August has a filthy mouth and absolutely knows how to use it.
Micro-tropes:
- Elevator scene
- Slutty little glasses
- Mirror s*x
- Making bets
- Possessive MMC
- ADHD rep
I will 100% be going back and reading more from M. Colette because she is officially an auto-buy author for me now. If you want something emotional, angsty, full of history, insane yearning, and spice with a satisfying payoff, put this at the TOP of your TBR.
Thank you again to M. Colette and the publisher for the e-arc copy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review for Swept Away (4 ⭐ & 2.5 🌶️)
This was my first read from M. Colette and it definitely did not disappoint. The friends-to-lovers trope can so easily fall flat or feel cheesy, but this one really hit the emotional depth that I crave in a romance.
Riley is an incredibly relatable character. Her entire outlook on life and love has been shaped by the familial role models she grew up with, leaving her feeling like she isn’t deserving of the kind of love August offers. And even if she were to accept it, she believes she would only end up ruining it and losing him anyway. The self-doubt and low self-esteem that are embedded in her are things I think we’ve all related to at one point or another. What makes it hit even harder is that it stems from someone she’s supposed to trust. While it took her some time to come to the decision we all knew she had to make, watching her pick herself up and finally stand up for what she deserves was empowering. At the same time, my heart broke for everything she had to work through to get there.
August has been completely gone for Riley for years, and the torch that he has carried for her has never once wavered. Seeing how the choices of others caused him to question himself at times was a bit of a gut punch. Watching him navigate his father’s illness while also managing the pressure of stepping into responsibility, along with his own learning challenges (ADHD), made it easy to sympathize with everything he was carrying. What I loved most about him was how he understood what Riley was struggling with internally. He never made her feel wrong for it; if anything, he consistently showed her just how deserving she was of the kind of love he was offering.
I’m absolutely in love with Ellie (from book one) and Hailey, August and Riley’s sisters. They both tell it like it is and brought so much humor to the story. Even though Ellie’s story comes before this one, I never felt like I was missing anything that impacted my enjoyment here, but it definitely made me want to go back and read her story. Based on the epilogue, it also looks like Hailey’s story might be next, and I am so ready for it.
Overall, this was a really emotional and satisfying friends-to-lovers story with strong character growth and relationships that felt genuine. This one really leans into the vulnerability and history between these characters, which made it so easy to stay invested in their story.
This was my first read from M. Colette and it definitely did not disappoint. The friends-to-lovers trope can so easily fall flat or feel cheesy, but this one really hit the emotional depth that I crave in a romance.
Riley is an incredibly relatable character. Her entire outlook on life and love has been shaped by the familial role models she grew up with, leaving her feeling like she isn’t deserving of the kind of love August offers. And even if she were to accept it, she believes she would only end up ruining it and losing him anyway. The self-doubt and low self-esteem that are embedded in her are things I think we’ve all related to at one point or another. What makes it hit even harder is that it stems from someone she’s supposed to trust. While it took her some time to come to the decision we all knew she had to make, watching her pick herself up and finally stand up for what she deserves was empowering. At the same time, my heart broke for everything she had to work through to get there.
August has been completely gone for Riley for years, and the torch that he has carried for her has never once wavered. Seeing how the choices of others caused him to question himself at times was a bit of a gut punch. Watching him navigate his father’s illness while also managing the pressure of stepping into responsibility, along with his own learning challenges (ADHD), made it easy to sympathize with everything he was carrying. What I loved most about him was how he understood what Riley was struggling with internally. He never made her feel wrong for it; if anything, he consistently showed her just how deserving she was of the kind of love he was offering.
I’m absolutely in love with Ellie (from book one) and Hailey, August and Riley’s sisters. They both tell it like it is and brought so much humor to the story. Even though Ellie’s story comes before this one, I never felt like I was missing anything that impacted my enjoyment here, but it definitely made me want to go back and read her story. Based on the epilogue, it also looks like Hailey’s story might be next, and I am so ready for it.
Overall, this was a really emotional and satisfying friends-to-lovers story with strong character growth and relationships that felt genuine. This one really leans into the vulnerability and history between these characters, which made it so easy to stay invested in their story.
May 10, 2026
⭐️4.5 🌶️3
📝 ARC Review
There is something about the way M. Colette writes Augustus that makes you completely understand why Riley could never fully leave him behind — and honestly, by the time I got to that epilogue, I felt the exact same way.
Swept Away is the second book in the Dove Point series, and it follows two people whose close friendship fell apart somewhere along the way. Riley is approaching thirty and quietly unraveling under the weight of expectations she never chose for herself. Augustus has poured everything into the family business — and when his father's health takes a sudden turn, that responsibility arrives much sooner than expected. What unfolds is a slow, tender reclaiming of the safe space they once shared — and a chance to start over as something more.
What I loved most is that M. Colette gives both Riley and Augustus real, full lives before they even reach for each other. Riley's internal conflict about living someone else's version of her life felt genuine and quietly heartbreaking. But Augustus is the one who will completely get you. M. Colette writes him with such quiet specificity and warmth that I found myself genuinely moved by how he sees Riley. You know that kind of attention that makes a person feel like the only one in the room? That is Augustus. If a man ever looked at me the way he looks at her, I would melt right there on the spot, no hesitation.
My only pause is a miscommunication element that surfaces mid-book. It's a common romance trope, and here it slowed the momentum at a point where the tension between these two had been building so beautifully. It's not a dealbreaker — but it is the one thing that kept this from being a full five stars.
That epilogue landed perfectly, and now I have entirely too many theories about who takes center stage in the next book.
If you love friends-to-lovers stories where both characters feel fully human, where the romance is built on something real, and where a small-town setting wraps around you like a warm hug — Swept Away belongs on your TBR immediately.
Thank you to M. Colette for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
📝 ARC Review
There is something about the way M. Colette writes Augustus that makes you completely understand why Riley could never fully leave him behind — and honestly, by the time I got to that epilogue, I felt the exact same way.
Swept Away is the second book in the Dove Point series, and it follows two people whose close friendship fell apart somewhere along the way. Riley is approaching thirty and quietly unraveling under the weight of expectations she never chose for herself. Augustus has poured everything into the family business — and when his father's health takes a sudden turn, that responsibility arrives much sooner than expected. What unfolds is a slow, tender reclaiming of the safe space they once shared — and a chance to start over as something more.
What I loved most is that M. Colette gives both Riley and Augustus real, full lives before they even reach for each other. Riley's internal conflict about living someone else's version of her life felt genuine and quietly heartbreaking. But Augustus is the one who will completely get you. M. Colette writes him with such quiet specificity and warmth that I found myself genuinely moved by how he sees Riley. You know that kind of attention that makes a person feel like the only one in the room? That is Augustus. If a man ever looked at me the way he looks at her, I would melt right there on the spot, no hesitation.
My only pause is a miscommunication element that surfaces mid-book. It's a common romance trope, and here it slowed the momentum at a point where the tension between these two had been building so beautifully. It's not a dealbreaker — but it is the one thing that kept this from being a full five stars.
That epilogue landed perfectly, and now I have entirely too many theories about who takes center stage in the next book.
If you love friends-to-lovers stories where both characters feel fully human, where the romance is built on something real, and where a small-town setting wraps around you like a warm hug — Swept Away belongs on your TBR immediately.
Thank you to M. Colette for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book received 5 stars from me due to the emotions that I felt while reading Riley's and August's story together. You really feel connected to these individuals when you watch their second chance with each other blossom. Whether that be with Riley's courage to stand up for herself in situations where others are putting her down or August's issues with his own ADHD and how to maneuver that even as an adult. Both main characters are relatable and refreshing in the way M. Colette writes them.
Colette writes a storyline that feels refreshing and upbeat while also balancing harder themes such as cancer diagnosis/treatment plans, divorce, and overall self-doubt and self-esteem issues. Throughout the story, you really do find yourself cheering on for these characters while also crying alongside them when life decides to gut punch them.
Let's not forget the charming and raw relationship of August and Riley. Colette's writing of the push and pull dynamic of these two was my favorite! I dare say that August is one my favorite MMCs that I have read in a while regarding contemporary romance. He provides a strong support system for Riley in moments where she doubts herself and feels unlovable while also being very playful and charismatic in times where Riley just needs a laugh. Not only does August provide GREAT flirting, but that mouth of his when a more intense scenes hits... PHEW. That man can talk. Riley and August are a great balance for one another that I loved watching in multiple scenes throughout Swept Away. To me, they truly are the "it" couple.
Funny story, when I signed up to read this story, I didn't realize that it was book #2. Thank god for interconnected stand alones. That being said, I loved this read so much I NEED to go back to book #1 to read it because I am almost positive it will be just as good on this one. Give this a read when it comes out May 8th - you won't regret it!
Colette writes a storyline that feels refreshing and upbeat while also balancing harder themes such as cancer diagnosis/treatment plans, divorce, and overall self-doubt and self-esteem issues. Throughout the story, you really do find yourself cheering on for these characters while also crying alongside them when life decides to gut punch them.
Let's not forget the charming and raw relationship of August and Riley. Colette's writing of the push and pull dynamic of these two was my favorite! I dare say that August is one my favorite MMCs that I have read in a while regarding contemporary romance. He provides a strong support system for Riley in moments where she doubts herself and feels unlovable while also being very playful and charismatic in times where Riley just needs a laugh. Not only does August provide GREAT flirting, but that mouth of his when a more intense scenes hits... PHEW. That man can talk. Riley and August are a great balance for one another that I loved watching in multiple scenes throughout Swept Away. To me, they truly are the "it" couple.
Funny story, when I signed up to read this story, I didn't realize that it was book #2. Thank god for interconnected stand alones. That being said, I loved this read so much I NEED to go back to book #1 to read it because I am almost positive it will be just as good on this one. Give this a read when it comes out May 8th - you won't regret it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was my first book to read by M.Colette and it completely surprised me in the best way.
What starts as a tender childhood-friends-to-something-more romance slowly unfolds into a deeply emotional story about healing, trust, and learning you deserve to be loved exactly as you are.
Riley felt incredibly real to me. She’s carrying years of insecurity and emotional baggage that constantly make her question herself and the people around her. Watching her try to protect her heart while also wanting something more with August made every moment between them feel raw and believable. Her journey wasn’t quick or easy, which honestly made it hit even harder.
And August? Absolutely adored him. He’s patient, loyal, and quietly carrying struggles of his own while trying to hold everything together for the people he loves. I appreciated how much depth was given to his character, especially with the pressures surrounding his family, responsibilities, and ADHD. The way he cared for Riley without ever pushing her too far made their relationship feel incredibly genuine.
The slow burn in this story was done so well. Every interaction had history behind it, every conversation mattered, and the emotional tension kept me fully invested the entire time. I also loved the small-town setting and side characters because they added warmth, humor, and that close-knit feeling that makes romances like this so comforting to read.
Messy family dynamics, self-doubt, fear of repeating the past, and learning to choose happiness anyway, it all came together beautifully.
If you love emotional small-town romances with longtime pining, meaningful character growth, and a romance that feels earned, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
A big thanks to the author for allowing me to read this ARC. These are my honest thoughts.
What starts as a tender childhood-friends-to-something-more romance slowly unfolds into a deeply emotional story about healing, trust, and learning you deserve to be loved exactly as you are.
Riley felt incredibly real to me. She’s carrying years of insecurity and emotional baggage that constantly make her question herself and the people around her. Watching her try to protect her heart while also wanting something more with August made every moment between them feel raw and believable. Her journey wasn’t quick or easy, which honestly made it hit even harder.
And August? Absolutely adored him. He’s patient, loyal, and quietly carrying struggles of his own while trying to hold everything together for the people he loves. I appreciated how much depth was given to his character, especially with the pressures surrounding his family, responsibilities, and ADHD. The way he cared for Riley without ever pushing her too far made their relationship feel incredibly genuine.
The slow burn in this story was done so well. Every interaction had history behind it, every conversation mattered, and the emotional tension kept me fully invested the entire time. I also loved the small-town setting and side characters because they added warmth, humor, and that close-knit feeling that makes romances like this so comforting to read.
Messy family dynamics, self-doubt, fear of repeating the past, and learning to choose happiness anyway, it all came together beautifully.
If you love emotional small-town romances with longtime pining, meaningful character growth, and a romance that feels earned, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
A big thanks to the author for allowing me to read this ARC. These are my honest thoughts.
May 8, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
I liked Ellie and Rowan in Whisked Away but I LOVED Riley and August. Usually, it's pretty hit or miss for me when it comes to the friends to lovers trope, but the amount of mutual pining for TWELVE FREAKING YEARS just really had such great payoff for the characters.
Twelve years ago, when they were just kids, August professed his love for Riley. But coming from a family where her parents didn't show each other love, let alone have unconditional love from her mom, Riley pushed him away while she struggled with believing that she was worthy of love.
Fast forward to the present, they're both going through huge major changes in their family lives and rekindle a friendship as they prepare for Ellie and Rowan's wedding. But as they get closer and rebuild that friendship, they both have to come to terms with the feelings they have for each other that they hide away.
These twoooooo. Ugh, the whole time I was practically screaming to GET TOGETHER ALREADY. Their friendship felt so natural and believable to me as a reader. There's always the delicate balance of wanting to give in to feelings but being too afraid to put yourself out there after being hurt. Add in the layer of shared close friendships in their group, the risk just increases.
Without giving too much away, this book came at the perfect time for me after going through some changes in my personal life myself. It hit me right in the feels and there absolutely was zero sophomore slump for M. Colette in this one.
By the way, THAT EPILOGUE??? Ugh, it's going to be so tough to wait for book three now that we have the tiniest hint at the trope. I. Can't. Wait.
Swept Away is just another book reminding me that I have serious beef with Goodreads for not allowing for half stars. This was a solid 4.5⭐️ for me and thank you so much for the ARC!! 💜
I liked Ellie and Rowan in Whisked Away but I LOVED Riley and August. Usually, it's pretty hit or miss for me when it comes to the friends to lovers trope, but the amount of mutual pining for TWELVE FREAKING YEARS just really had such great payoff for the characters.
Twelve years ago, when they were just kids, August professed his love for Riley. But coming from a family where her parents didn't show each other love, let alone have unconditional love from her mom, Riley pushed him away while she struggled with believing that she was worthy of love.
Fast forward to the present, they're both going through huge major changes in their family lives and rekindle a friendship as they prepare for Ellie and Rowan's wedding. But as they get closer and rebuild that friendship, they both have to come to terms with the feelings they have for each other that they hide away.
These twoooooo. Ugh, the whole time I was practically screaming to GET TOGETHER ALREADY. Their friendship felt so natural and believable to me as a reader. There's always the delicate balance of wanting to give in to feelings but being too afraid to put yourself out there after being hurt. Add in the layer of shared close friendships in their group, the risk just increases.
Without giving too much away, this book came at the perfect time for me after going through some changes in my personal life myself. It hit me right in the feels and there absolutely was zero sophomore slump for M. Colette in this one.
By the way, THAT EPILOGUE??? Ugh, it's going to be so tough to wait for book three now that we have the tiniest hint at the trope. I. Can't. Wait.
Swept Away is just another book reminding me that I have serious beef with Goodreads for not allowing for half stars. This was a solid 4.5⭐️ for me and thank you so much for the ARC!! 💜
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, this was my introduction to M. Colette and what a hello it was. Huge thanks for the ARC because wow… I ate this up like a beachside dessert I didn’t plan on ordering but absolutely needed.
This story is packed with all the good stuff: best friend’s brother tension, small coastal town charm, forced proximity that practically crackles, and that he falls first and harder energy that deserves its own standing ovation. And the banter? Please. It’s not even banter. It’s straight-up foreplay with a side of emotional damage and I loved every second of it.
Riley and August feel like two people who never really let go of each other… just hit pause for a while. Their connection is effortless in that dangerous way where every joke carries weight and every look says a little too much. Watching them find their way back felt like slipping into something warm and familiar, like this is what love was always supposed to feel like.
Riley is navigating fear of commitment, messy family baggage, and the pressure of not wanting to disappoint anyone, all while co-running Honey Cakes and teaching yoga. She’s soft but guarded, and her chemistry with August? Electric.
And August… sir. Green flag behavior across the board. ADHD rep we love to see, running the family surf shop, devoted, patient, and just the right amount of unhinged when it comes to Riley. The flirting? Elite. The glasses? Criminal. The “on his knees for her” energy? Life-changing.
This book is funny, emotional, a little healing, and very, very swoony with a slow burn that simmers until it finally boils over 🔥
If you love friends-to-lovers with history, heart, and tension you could bottle and sell, this one will absolutely sweep you away.
This story is packed with all the good stuff: best friend’s brother tension, small coastal town charm, forced proximity that practically crackles, and that he falls first and harder energy that deserves its own standing ovation. And the banter? Please. It’s not even banter. It’s straight-up foreplay with a side of emotional damage and I loved every second of it.
Riley and August feel like two people who never really let go of each other… just hit pause for a while. Their connection is effortless in that dangerous way where every joke carries weight and every look says a little too much. Watching them find their way back felt like slipping into something warm and familiar, like this is what love was always supposed to feel like.
Riley is navigating fear of commitment, messy family baggage, and the pressure of not wanting to disappoint anyone, all while co-running Honey Cakes and teaching yoga. She’s soft but guarded, and her chemistry with August? Electric.
And August… sir. Green flag behavior across the board. ADHD rep we love to see, running the family surf shop, devoted, patient, and just the right amount of unhinged when it comes to Riley. The flirting? Elite. The glasses? Criminal. The “on his knees for her” energy? Life-changing.
This book is funny, emotional, a little healing, and very, very swoony with a slow burn that simmers until it finally boils over 🔥
If you love friends-to-lovers with history, heart, and tension you could bottle and sell, this one will absolutely sweep you away.
April 27, 2026
I had an absolute blast reading Swept Away by M. Colette. Thank you so much for the ARC!! I’ve been a big fan of August since reading Whisked Away last week and just knew I wouldn’t be able to put this book down. I was not wrong!
Actually, I saw myself in both August and Riley. Amazing ADHD representation in this book!!! I appreciated how, with August’s experiences, we see other sides to ADHD like the anxiety, executive dysfunction, struggling trying to replicate behaviors that just don’t work because folks like us need processes that click with our brains. We also see triumphs and how brilliant he is which brought such joy. Also… this man is down so bad for Riley. The banter? The yearning? SO GOOD!
Riley tries so hard to resist lol. She really is no match for August and his flirting though. However, before she can really be present in a relationship, she has to deal with a narcissistic mother(& wow she’s a piece of work). When you grow up with a parent who is a narcissist… you’ve got lots of things you need to work through. Riley struggles a lot and it impacts her ability to accept love she deserves. It’s a really tough journey, and I’m glad we got to see her grow.
On the other side of this, watching Riley try to not be attracted to August was pretty amusing. They are both drawn to each other and have some amazing chemistry that’s really intensified by the slow burn- but it sure does ignite! Plus, we get a little look at what’s coming next and I am excited!!
Swept Away releases on May 8th!!!!
Actually, I saw myself in both August and Riley. Amazing ADHD representation in this book!!! I appreciated how, with August’s experiences, we see other sides to ADHD like the anxiety, executive dysfunction, struggling trying to replicate behaviors that just don’t work because folks like us need processes that click with our brains. We also see triumphs and how brilliant he is which brought such joy. Also… this man is down so bad for Riley. The banter? The yearning? SO GOOD!
Riley tries so hard to resist lol. She really is no match for August and his flirting though. However, before she can really be present in a relationship, she has to deal with a narcissistic mother(& wow she’s a piece of work). When you grow up with a parent who is a narcissist… you’ve got lots of things you need to work through. Riley struggles a lot and it impacts her ability to accept love she deserves. It’s a really tough journey, and I’m glad we got to see her grow.
On the other side of this, watching Riley try to not be attracted to August was pretty amusing. They are both drawn to each other and have some amazing chemistry that’s really intensified by the slow burn- but it sure does ignite! Plus, we get a little look at what’s coming next and I am excited!!
Swept Away releases on May 8th!!!!
May 16, 2026
4/5 ⭐ ️ Friends to lovers might be the best trope for yearning, pining, and tension. If you want a romantic pairing that is going to make you squeal, swoon, and kick your feet because of how the two MCs pine for each other, then Swept Away is a good pick. But this story is also more than romance. At the core of the novel is the question, what has prevented the two MCs from getting together all these years? Riley is an almost-thirty-year-old who struggles to get to the next level in relationships because of trauma from how her mom treats her. She doesn’t know what a loving relationship is and doesn’t know if she deserves it but, she has liked her best friend’s brother, August, for most of her life. August is going through his own struggle as he takes over his dad’s store. Suffering from ADHD, August constantly questions his ability to be the boss and it is Riley who is able to help him. The mutual connection between Riley and August makes for the best push and pull. And definitely, they are spicy together. The question is – will they be able to get over their own personal issues and be finally together or miss each other again like they did 12 years ago. Swept Away is a cute, romantic read that puts to light how certain personal issues can hinder a relationship despite the great chemistry and attraction. You will probably yell at the MCs, especially Riley and shed a tear or two in some of the heartwarming parts. Swept Away is best for fans of Laurie GIlmore, Melanie Harlow, and Lucy Score
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely adored this book!
It’s a friends to lovers / best friend’s brother romance with lots of tension and YEARNING (In all caps because my man was down bad). August is genuinely one of the most adorable men I’ve ever read. When I say I want a man who yearns, I mean a man like this, down bad, devoted, and showing up for her every single time, even when Riley keeps pushing him away. And the ADHD representation was really great. That hit home for me in the best way. I really saw parts of myself in August, which made me love him even more.
Riley definitely tested my patience at times, but I still understood her. Her relationship with her parents plays a big role in why she holds back the way she does, and even when I didn’t agree with her choices, I could see where she was coming from. Watching her grow over the course of the story made it all worth it.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was the friendship dynamic. The relationships felt genuine, supportive, and grounded, and the banter between characters added so much warmth to the story. The banter between August and Riley in particular was👩🍳💋.
Overall, I loved this so much, and I’m so happy I got to read it as an ARC 🫶 Would definitely recommend if you like yearning men, slow burn tension, emotional trauma, and friendships that feel like family! :)
It’s a friends to lovers / best friend’s brother romance with lots of tension and YEARNING (In all caps because my man was down bad). August is genuinely one of the most adorable men I’ve ever read. When I say I want a man who yearns, I mean a man like this, down bad, devoted, and showing up for her every single time, even when Riley keeps pushing him away. And the ADHD representation was really great. That hit home for me in the best way. I really saw parts of myself in August, which made me love him even more.
Riley definitely tested my patience at times, but I still understood her. Her relationship with her parents plays a big role in why she holds back the way she does, and even when I didn’t agree with her choices, I could see where she was coming from. Watching her grow over the course of the story made it all worth it.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was the friendship dynamic. The relationships felt genuine, supportive, and grounded, and the banter between characters added so much warmth to the story. The banter between August and Riley in particular was👩🍳💋.
Overall, I loved this so much, and I’m so happy I got to read it as an ARC 🫶 Would definitely recommend if you like yearning men, slow burn tension, emotional trauma, and friendships that feel like family! :)
Review of advance copy received from Author
August has a dirty, filthy mouth, and I love it!
📖 Genre: Small Town, Friends to Lovers Romance
🔥 Spice: Medium
🏷 Tropes: Small town, found family, best friend's brother, forced proximity, friends to lovers, slow burn, he falls first
Summary:
Riley and August were once best friends. But after some confessions come to light, their friendship falls apart. After twelve years, they're forced to spend more and more time together, and they begin giving in to the pull of their buried feelings toward one another.
My thoughts:
This was a cute book to get lost in. The FMC was funny, a little quirky, and confident. I loved how confident she was. The MMC was a sweet cinnamon roll guy with a dirty mouth in the bedroom. That was a fun surprise. He's also a yearner, and I love a man who yearns. Their banter was top-notch, and definitely fueled their chemistry.
From the beginning, I had such a connection with August. We struggled with some of the same things as kids. I was not a confident kid, and I definitely could have used a friend like Riley in school.
The writing was fun and playful. I do feel like I was more emotionally connected to August over Riley. She seemed shallow at times, and her story--while emotional--didn't go as deep for me as a reader. I feel like we only got surface-level vibes from her while August was deep and raw.
I would definitely love to read the next story in the series.
📖 Genre: Small Town, Friends to Lovers Romance
🔥 Spice: Medium
🏷 Tropes: Small town, found family, best friend's brother, forced proximity, friends to lovers, slow burn, he falls first
Summary:
Riley and August were once best friends. But after some confessions come to light, their friendship falls apart. After twelve years, they're forced to spend more and more time together, and they begin giving in to the pull of their buried feelings toward one another.
My thoughts:
This was a cute book to get lost in. The FMC was funny, a little quirky, and confident. I loved how confident she was. The MMC was a sweet cinnamon roll guy with a dirty mouth in the bedroom. That was a fun surprise. He's also a yearner, and I love a man who yearns. Their banter was top-notch, and definitely fueled their chemistry.
From the beginning, I had such a connection with August. We struggled with some of the same things as kids. I was not a confident kid, and I definitely could have used a friend like Riley in school.
The writing was fun and playful. I do feel like I was more emotionally connected to August over Riley. She seemed shallow at times, and her story--while emotional--didn't go as deep for me as a reader. I feel like we only got surface-level vibes from her while August was deep and raw.
I would definitely love to read the next story in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Swept Away by M. Colette
5 out of 5 stars
ARC
Thank you, M. Colette, for this early copy. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion 💚
Do you want to laugh, cry, and just be completely drawn into a romance novel?
Swept Away meets every single one of those wants and so much more. I genuinely could not put it down and I am heartbroken that it's already over. I want more 😭
I've never read a romance book that is so beautifully layered with different forms of trauma between BOTH characters, so much care, yearning, and mental health struggles. All of it together made a book that felt so real and meaningful. I just couldn't help but be fully invested and I have no doubt that you will be too.
Swept Away has a perfect release day of May 8th, my birthday 😉, which just so happens to be tomorrow! So, if you're looking for a new read in a small coastal town, banter, and ADHD/Mental Health rep that has you feeling all the feels, then grab yourself a copy and dive in!
"Like being on some kind of love drug, where you taste colors and hear sound. The high is so good that you're fighting the comedown."
“I don't know what came over me. I don't normally dry hump. It's more of a dine-and-dash when I'm with someone.” 😂
5 out of 5 stars
ARC
Thank you, M. Colette, for this early copy. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion 💚
Do you want to laugh, cry, and just be completely drawn into a romance novel?
Swept Away meets every single one of those wants and so much more. I genuinely could not put it down and I am heartbroken that it's already over. I want more 😭
I've never read a romance book that is so beautifully layered with different forms of trauma between BOTH characters, so much care, yearning, and mental health struggles. All of it together made a book that felt so real and meaningful. I just couldn't help but be fully invested and I have no doubt that you will be too.
Swept Away has a perfect release day of May 8th, my birthday 😉, which just so happens to be tomorrow! So, if you're looking for a new read in a small coastal town, banter, and ADHD/Mental Health rep that has you feeling all the feels, then grab yourself a copy and dive in!
"Like being on some kind of love drug, where you taste colors and hear sound. The high is so good that you're fighting the comedown."
“I don't know what came over me. I don't normally dry hump. It's more of a dine-and-dash when I'm with someone.” 😂
May 8, 2026
If you're looking for a romcom that is full of depth and heart, then look no further. Swept Away follows Riley and August, previous childhood friends and current stressed adults. Riley is struggling with her narcissistic mother and her parent's divorce. Never being seen as good enough, she strives to overcome her feelings of inadequacy. August is struggling with his father's illness and having to take over the family business. He has ADHD and becomes overwhelmed with the responsibility. Thrust together for his sister's wedding, Riley and August are forced together and have to process their lingering feelings.
What I loved:
-this book has so much heart. Between the feelings the MMCs have for each other, for their families (even mommie dearest), and their friends, it's like being wrapped in a blanket of love and support.
-Riley was such a real character. Her feelings were valid and I related to her so much. Love her sister too. Can't wait for her sister's story.
-August, just August. Everything about him. Especially that mouth. I love when the sweet ones talk dirty.
What I didn't like:
-Nothing. I really loved this book. The pace was good, the characters were great, and the plot was sweet. I laughed, I cried, I felt all the things. A must read!
What I loved:
-this book has so much heart. Between the feelings the MMCs have for each other, for their families (even mommie dearest), and their friends, it's like being wrapped in a blanket of love and support.
-Riley was such a real character. Her feelings were valid and I related to her so much. Love her sister too. Can't wait for her sister's story.
-August, just August. Everything about him. Especially that mouth. I love when the sweet ones talk dirty.
What I didn't like:
-Nothing. I really loved this book. The pace was good, the characters were great, and the plot was sweet. I laughed, I cried, I felt all the things. A must read!
May 9, 2026
I loved this one! It's slow burn. Like... they've been in love for 12 years but she won't admit it so she just pretends there are no feelings. Lol. August is Ellie's brother, and Ellie is Rileys best friend. August has been in love with Riley for FOREVER, and when he confessed to her at 18, she completely panicked and essentially just did a 180 and pretended they weren't even close anymore. She struggles with a LOT of issues that stem from her mom and their "relationship"; I wasn't aware how deep this book got into it until I read it but wowwww, it was like reading about my own mother 💀 There is a lot of on page discussion about a parent with cancer, emotional manipulation, divorce, etc, of any of those bother you. If not, you'll find out how August is the most down bad for Riley, and how terrified she is of everyone leaving and not being enough for them. It's heartwrenching to watch them through the will-they-wont-they, the self-doubt, the hurt, when all you want to do is push them together and yell NOW KISS AND MAKE UP. I love the small town this is centered around, it feels so quaint and charming and the town really rallies around the Thompson family in the sweetest way 🥹 The epilogue has me SO ready for the next book! I can't wait to see how that story plays out next!!
May 20, 2026
4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
Swept Away follows Riley & August who once used to be close friends. Riley struggles with approval and not feeling like enough because of her toxic relationship with her mom. August fell hard for Riley because she was always there for him when he needed it. August’s dad has fallen ill and is asked to step up for their business and August has trouble asking for help when he’s struggling. August has waited years for Riley and he doesn’t want to wait anymore…
This book had so much tension, yearning, banter, and flirting. I really love the bantering between the main characters and the witty remarks from August. I was expecting August to be quite shy in the spicy bits but oof he has a mouth on him. The character development and growth that Riley experiences with her mother is so so good. I definitely found myself tearing up a couple of times, which I think shows how moving this story is. Also, as someone with anxiety and possibly ADHD, I feel like August was portrayed very well and appropriately. Riley and August 4eva!! 💖💖
Tropes:
✨ Friends to Lovers
✨ Second Chance
✨ Best Friends Brother
✨ ADHD/Anxiety Rep
I was sent this ARC by the author, M. Colette. Thank you so much for allowing me to read this book and provide my honest feedback.
2/5 🌶️
Swept Away follows Riley & August who once used to be close friends. Riley struggles with approval and not feeling like enough because of her toxic relationship with her mom. August fell hard for Riley because she was always there for him when he needed it. August’s dad has fallen ill and is asked to step up for their business and August has trouble asking for help when he’s struggling. August has waited years for Riley and he doesn’t want to wait anymore…
This book had so much tension, yearning, banter, and flirting. I really love the bantering between the main characters and the witty remarks from August. I was expecting August to be quite shy in the spicy bits but oof he has a mouth on him. The character development and growth that Riley experiences with her mother is so so good. I definitely found myself tearing up a couple of times, which I think shows how moving this story is. Also, as someone with anxiety and possibly ADHD, I feel like August was portrayed very well and appropriately. Riley and August 4eva!! 💖💖
Tropes:
✨ Friends to Lovers
✨ Second Chance
✨ Best Friends Brother
✨ ADHD/Anxiety Rep
I was sent this ARC by the author, M. Colette. Thank you so much for allowing me to read this book and provide my honest feedback.
June 12, 2026
⭐️3
Thank you to M. Colette for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. 💛
I had a hard time finishing this book. My biggest issue was with the characters and their relationship. They felt super inconsistent, and I found myself so frustrated with many of their decisions. Riley and August spent years dancing around their feelings. I felt like the entire story relied on miscommunication. Instead of addressing their feelings, they spent so much time avoiding conversations that if they had, those conversations would have made this book so much shorter.
The timeline also bothered me since it was super inconsistent. I struggled to fully invest in August and Riley’s relationship, since it felt like they were stuck in the same cycle rather than actively working toward each other. By the time they finally got together, there were only a few chapters left, which didn’t give me enough time to really see them as a couple. I wasn’t completely convinced they would have a strong long-term relationship.
Overall, while this story wasn’t the right fit for me, I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up another book by M. Colette. I could see the potential in the author’s writing. The epilogue definitely caught my attention, and I’m interested to see where the series goes next.
Thank you to M. Colette for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. 💛
I had a hard time finishing this book. My biggest issue was with the characters and their relationship. They felt super inconsistent, and I found myself so frustrated with many of their decisions. Riley and August spent years dancing around their feelings. I felt like the entire story relied on miscommunication. Instead of addressing their feelings, they spent so much time avoiding conversations that if they had, those conversations would have made this book so much shorter.
The timeline also bothered me since it was super inconsistent. I struggled to fully invest in August and Riley’s relationship, since it felt like they were stuck in the same cycle rather than actively working toward each other. By the time they finally got together, there were only a few chapters left, which didn’t give me enough time to really see them as a couple. I wasn’t completely convinced they would have a strong long-term relationship.
Overall, while this story wasn’t the right fit for me, I wouldn’t hesitate to pick up another book by M. Colette. I could see the potential in the author’s writing. The epilogue definitely caught my attention, and I’m interested to see where the series goes next.
Review of advance copy
The YEARNING… The TENSION… The BANTER… The FLIRTING.
I am in love with these characters and this book. I want to have my heartbroken and put back together in the best of ways ad many did this book accomplish that. I find it rare to relate to both main characters and feel for them both so strongly but I really did in this book.
I love the best friends who grow up together and become lovers! It has me swooning because who really knows you better huh? no one else.
I read this entire book in one sitting. I could not put it down and had to keep going!
A very unique thing that stood out to me the most was the representation of mental health struggles through both main characters. The heavy topics that the author tackles were done with grace, understanding, and care that really transferred as you read. I really appreciate the author taking the time to handle those topics throughly instead using it as a shock value or filler that I’ve felt in other books. I hate that.
I will be going back to read some more M. Colette books because if this is the basis of how they are written I will read them all!
I am in love with these characters and this book. I want to have my heartbroken and put back together in the best of ways ad many did this book accomplish that. I find it rare to relate to both main characters and feel for them both so strongly but I really did in this book.
I love the best friends who grow up together and become lovers! It has me swooning because who really knows you better huh? no one else.
I read this entire book in one sitting. I could not put it down and had to keep going!
A very unique thing that stood out to me the most was the representation of mental health struggles through both main characters. The heavy topics that the author tackles were done with grace, understanding, and care that really transferred as you read. I really appreciate the author taking the time to handle those topics throughly instead using it as a shock value or filler that I’ve felt in other books. I hate that.
I will be going back to read some more M. Colette books because if this is the basis of how they are written I will read them all!
May 11, 2026
If you're the author, kindly don't read this review!
The premise of this book is so cute, which is what drew me to this book in the first place, but unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. A lot of this story felt rushed and the characters lacked depth. I wanted to know more about them but their struggles felt alien to me because they felt underdeveloped. I didn't feel attached to them. The storyline was a bit muddled as well. The book felt 30 pages too long. The whole storyline with August's dad was interesting but it felt rushed. It should've been mixed in with the other side plots going on but it got pushed to the very end of the book, which felt clunky and weird. There were too many side plots going on that distracted from the main plot. This book would have been much better and way more cohesive had it been kept simple. Also there were many grammatical and spelling errors throughout the book. I'm not sure if those have been fixed since the ARCs were sent out and before the book was published, but it was annoying and impacted my enjoyment of the book. Overall, it had potential but was doing too much and lost me.
The premise of this book is so cute, which is what drew me to this book in the first place, but unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. A lot of this story felt rushed and the characters lacked depth. I wanted to know more about them but their struggles felt alien to me because they felt underdeveloped. I didn't feel attached to them. The storyline was a bit muddled as well. The book felt 30 pages too long. The whole storyline with August's dad was interesting but it felt rushed. It should've been mixed in with the other side plots going on but it got pushed to the very end of the book, which felt clunky and weird. There were too many side plots going on that distracted from the main plot. This book would have been much better and way more cohesive had it been kept simple. Also there were many grammatical and spelling errors throughout the book. I'm not sure if those have been fixed since the ARCs were sent out and before the book was published, but it was annoying and impacted my enjoyment of the book. Overall, it had potential but was doing too much and lost me.
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