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Up All Night
Matthew Birch is on the run...well, maybe that's a little dramatic. After a surprise proposal from his soon-to-be-ex girlfriend (or at least that’s what he thought), he buys a new phone, packs a bag, and drives until his gas tank hits empty and sends him into the first town he can find: Lighton, Montana, population 1,304. Looking for a reprieve from the rain, Matthew finds himself at The Dusty Rose and asks for a job before he can even think the question through. All he wants is to start over, even if it means sleeping in his car and living off of tips. Things are falling into place faster than he could have expected. That is until Matthew comes face to face with the owner of the bar.
Isla Marron, the ice queen of Lighton, has spent her life being perfect. Perfect grades, perfect relationship, perfect family. To survive living under her little town’s microscope, she’s been trying to convince herself of that too. But when she can no longer turn a blind eye to the walls falling down around her, she chooses to disappear from the public eye instead. Returning two weeks later, Isla is full of even more secrets than she left with. When she comes back to her bar, she thinks she'll at least have one thing that hasn't changed. Until she sees a stranger working behind her bar.
Despite attempts to ice him out, even Isla can hardly resist the smiles and charm that Matthew throws her way. When closing the bar together one night, the two discover that they aren’t as different as they thought. Especially with the people they’re on the run from. In a moment of vulnerability, Isla opens a small door for Matthew: the one to a spare bedroom in her house.
When both of them end up in the crosshairs of their exes, a split-second decision, a squeeze of a hand, and a kiss on the forehead makes Lighton flip upside down. Now, Isla and Matthew will really have to play house. But how long will it be just for show?
Up All Night by A. E. Boss is the first book in the Love in Lighton series of interconnected standalones.
Isla Marron, the ice queen of Lighton, has spent her life being perfect. Perfect grades, perfect relationship, perfect family. To survive living under her little town’s microscope, she’s been trying to convince herself of that too. But when she can no longer turn a blind eye to the walls falling down around her, she chooses to disappear from the public eye instead. Returning two weeks later, Isla is full of even more secrets than she left with. When she comes back to her bar, she thinks she'll at least have one thing that hasn't changed. Until she sees a stranger working behind her bar.
Despite attempts to ice him out, even Isla can hardly resist the smiles and charm that Matthew throws her way. When closing the bar together one night, the two discover that they aren’t as different as they thought. Especially with the people they’re on the run from. In a moment of vulnerability, Isla opens a small door for Matthew: the one to a spare bedroom in her house.
When both of them end up in the crosshairs of their exes, a split-second decision, a squeeze of a hand, and a kiss on the forehead makes Lighton flip upside down. Now, Isla and Matthew will really have to play house. But how long will it be just for show?
Up All Night by A. E. Boss is the first book in the Love in Lighton series of interconnected standalones.
- GenresRomance
350 pages, ebook
First published July 2, 2025
2 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Boss
3 books46 followersA. E. Boss is a dark and contemporary romance author from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (go birds) who has had a pen in her hand ever since she learned that writing was far more than a requirement to pass her elementary school English classes.
A. E. isn't just an author. In her free time, she plays Dungeons and Dragons, reads more than is healthy, edits the work of others, and aggressively watches Philly sports (whether she knows what is happening on the field or not). She is a Diet Coke addict, a Swiftie, and a persistent bother-er of her parents who live just 10 minutes down the road from where A. E. resides with her boyfriend.
A. E. isn't just an author. In her free time, she plays Dungeons and Dragons, reads more than is healthy, edits the work of others, and aggressively watches Philly sports (whether she knows what is happening on the field or not). She is a Diet Coke addict, a Swiftie, and a persistent bother-er of her parents who live just 10 minutes down the road from where A. E. resides with her boyfriend.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
July 8, 2025
ARC REVIEW
[I am so bad with keeping track on this app!]
I am someone who is absolutely obsessed with a good DOB (drink, outfit, book) of the day on tiktok/instagram. Once I saw A.E. Boss’s DOB and word count, I was intrigued. It came to the point where I was cheering her on and it has become “one of my shows” through the word count and editing phases! Needless to say, my obsession went from her videos to her book! ❤︎
This book was one I was looking forward to and it melted my heart. I know that so many people are going to see themselves wishing Isla. If it stems from being in a poor relationship to finding themselves being free — or being that person that is always taking care of others, but themselves. There is just so many characteristics that make up Isla that had me love her as a character.
Matthew. My sweet, sweet Matthew. He has such a sweet and precious soul! He balances out Isla’s personality so well, his nickname for her was such a cute and fun one, completely the opposite of what she is. As their relationship expanded, the nickname soon became true. He got rid of all those demons and was allowing her to see light again. Allowing her to feel like her again. Allowing her to be that ‘Sunshine.’
This was such a healing book and seeing, or I guess reading, about a family who has such a good and strong relationship, it will forever tug at my heart. I will forever fall in love with a book with good family relationships! Although Matthew’s wasn’t the most loving — Isla and her family took him in IMMEDIATELY and I ate that UP. Along with the whole entire book??? The spice scenes had me smiling so hard, just as much as the vulnerable scenes did.
Vulnerability is such a hard thing for some people. Being raw and allowing your walls down is SUCH a scary thing. Matthew was so beyond patient with Isla and helping her slowly take out those bricks! I pray that that love finds me, as well as you (whoever is reading this).
Happy Reading Sunshine 🌞
[I am so bad with keeping track on this app!]
I am someone who is absolutely obsessed with a good DOB (drink, outfit, book) of the day on tiktok/instagram. Once I saw A.E. Boss’s DOB and word count, I was intrigued. It came to the point where I was cheering her on and it has become “one of my shows” through the word count and editing phases! Needless to say, my obsession went from her videos to her book! ❤︎
This book was one I was looking forward to and it melted my heart. I know that so many people are going to see themselves wishing Isla. If it stems from being in a poor relationship to finding themselves being free — or being that person that is always taking care of others, but themselves. There is just so many characteristics that make up Isla that had me love her as a character.
Matthew. My sweet, sweet Matthew. He has such a sweet and precious soul! He balances out Isla’s personality so well, his nickname for her was such a cute and fun one, completely the opposite of what she is. As their relationship expanded, the nickname soon became true. He got rid of all those demons and was allowing her to see light again. Allowing her to feel like her again. Allowing her to be that ‘Sunshine.’
This was such a healing book and seeing, or I guess reading, about a family who has such a good and strong relationship, it will forever tug at my heart. I will forever fall in love with a book with good family relationships! Although Matthew’s wasn’t the most loving — Isla and her family took him in IMMEDIATELY and I ate that UP. Along with the whole entire book??? The spice scenes had me smiling so hard, just as much as the vulnerable scenes did.
Vulnerability is such a hard thing for some people. Being raw and allowing your walls down is SUCH a scary thing. Matthew was so beyond patient with Isla and helping her slowly take out those bricks! I pray that that love finds me, as well as you (whoever is reading this).
Happy Reading Sunshine 🌞
June 30, 2025
AE Boss has done it again! If you love romance you need to be following & reading her novels. This was an absolute page turner. I was really excited to get to know these characters & figure them out. As someone who was in a domestic violence abusive marriage this story resonated deeply. The way Isla is beyond strong for herself in front of everyone but is careful who sees her true vulnerability is beyond relatable. Going through her healing journey made my heart so happy! It made me kick my feet, scream & cry. I highly recommend running to this read especially for finding a safe love.
August 5, 2025
Wow this book put my emotions through a rollercoaster and I absolutely loved every minute of it! A.E. Boss and her writing never seems to disappoint!!!
July 11, 2025
ARC Review 🖤
3.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
What a rollercoaster! This book had the drama, the sass, the spice, it was emotional and all ran together really good. I enjoyed the characters and how Isla was so independent.
3.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
What a rollercoaster! This book had the drama, the sass, the spice, it was emotional and all ran together really good. I enjoyed the characters and how Isla was so independent.
July 3, 2025
An emotional rollercoaster for sure. Isla and Matthew both are trying to survive tragic pasts and learn to support each other. Their pasts keep trying to keep them apart.
July 4, 2025
Another great read from A.E. Boss! Isla is strong and independent but not annoying. She’s worked hard for everything she has, while surviving hell at home. She has a slight neurodivergent aspect that was really well written. Matthew Birch is patient, caring, and just the ray of sunshine needed to soften the hardened edges of Isla. He knows what she needs and makes sure she gets it, even if she can’t or won’t slow down enough to know she needs it. Never appreciated at home, he deserves all the love he can get. I can’t wait for the next book!
July 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/🌶️🌶️
This book is exactly like the queen who wrote it: sweet!!!!!
AE Boss never fails to bring a fire plot!!!!
The emotional aspect of this book is everything!
Isla and Matthew are everything as individual characters and together as a couple!
Check triggers cuz the topics are pretty deep, but so necessary!!!! The vulnerability, raw honesty, and relatability of this boom is unmatched
I am a sucker for a good grumpy x sunshine, but books like this remind me why reverse grumpy x sunshine are Elite!!
What to expect:
Fake dating
Reverse grumpy x sunshine
Small town
Fresh starts
Cowgirl x city boy
Thank you AE Boss for allowing me the opportunity to read this book as an ARC!!💛
This book is exactly like the queen who wrote it: sweet!!!!!
AE Boss never fails to bring a fire plot!!!!
The emotional aspect of this book is everything!
Isla and Matthew are everything as individual characters and together as a couple!
Check triggers cuz the topics are pretty deep, but so necessary!!!! The vulnerability, raw honesty, and relatability of this boom is unmatched
I am a sucker for a good grumpy x sunshine, but books like this remind me why reverse grumpy x sunshine are Elite!!
What to expect:
Fake dating
Reverse grumpy x sunshine
Small town
Fresh starts
Cowgirl x city boy
Thank you AE Boss for allowing me the opportunity to read this book as an ARC!!💛
June 30, 2025
This book is emotional, angsty and entrancing. Both of the main characters, Isla and Matthew, have finally had enough of life with their controlling and abusive exes and are set on starting anew without them. They have reached a breaking point or a point of no return, but unfortunately their exes haven’t gotten the message or refuse to let go. Fate has put Isla and Matthew in each other’s life at just the right time. They feel the pull toward each other that goes beyond sexual. They recognize the pain in each other’s eyes as well as the haunted and faraway looks that others don’t see. They feel comfortable and safe with each other, as evidenced by Isla offering Matthew her spare bedroom, so soon after forcing her ex out of the home they once shared. They eventually learn each other stories, the pain, disappointment and anger they have been living with for so long, and give each other the support and encouragement they need to move forward. A fake relationship designed to ward off their persistent exes soon feels very real, and gives both Isla and Matthew a new view of love and commitment. To claim their future together, however, they have to confront those who hurt them. In Isla’s case that means finally exposing her ex for who he really is and getting justice.
I admire both of these characters. They are survivors, stronger than they think, and resilient. Though love was the last thing they were looking for, it found them anyway and they found the courage to open their hearts again. I loved Isla’s family with their intense loyalty, unwavering love and support of each other. I especially enjoyed her sister and mother’s fierceness in defence of Isla. The way Isla and her whole family accepted Matthew and enveloped him with comfort and support was truly heartwarming. This book is one I will enjoy reading again and again.
I am very happy to recommend this exceptional book.
I admire both of these characters. They are survivors, stronger than they think, and resilient. Though love was the last thing they were looking for, it found them anyway and they found the courage to open their hearts again. I loved Isla’s family with their intense loyalty, unwavering love and support of each other. I especially enjoyed her sister and mother’s fierceness in defence of Isla. The way Isla and her whole family accepted Matthew and enveloped him with comfort and support was truly heartwarming. This book is one I will enjoy reading again and again.
I am very happy to recommend this exceptional book.
June 29, 2025
This book was absolutely beautiful! It was both hard to read and hard to put down. Please read your trigger warnings.
As a woman who’s been in this kind of relationship as a freshman like Iyla… -&finally finding my way out of it at the age of 18, to then find a man to love care and have the utmost respect and patience with me like Matthew was incredible. I saw so much of myself in this book, which was why it was hard to read but I saw what could have been.
Thank you for showing a deep inside view of what a life in that mental state actually looks like, what it feels like, for you as the victim and then how the guilt looks like when it comes to your family friends and loved ones.
Matthew- was a special breed of a man, strong . I absolutely loved watching him be her knight in shining armor, her safety net while also letting her be her and never asking for her to change, and in the same breath watching him flourish and become the man he was always meant to be. Regardless of his family’s ideas of what he should be, or do.
Watching him be absolutely vulnerable and be unsure also so absolutely beautiful !
Great read !
Favorite quote:
“Man would stand outside and vacuum the grass just to stick his nose in someone’s business.”
As a woman who’s been in this kind of relationship as a freshman like Iyla… -&finally finding my way out of it at the age of 18, to then find a man to love care and have the utmost respect and patience with me like Matthew was incredible. I saw so much of myself in this book, which was why it was hard to read but I saw what could have been.
Thank you for showing a deep inside view of what a life in that mental state actually looks like, what it feels like, for you as the victim and then how the guilt looks like when it comes to your family friends and loved ones.
Matthew- was a special breed of a man, strong . I absolutely loved watching him be her knight in shining armor, her safety net while also letting her be her and never asking for her to change, and in the same breath watching him flourish and become the man he was always meant to be. Regardless of his family’s ideas of what he should be, or do.
Watching him be absolutely vulnerable and be unsure also so absolutely beautiful !
Great read !
Favorite quote:
“Man would stand outside and vacuum the grass just to stick his nose in someone’s business.”
July 18, 2025
Rediscovering themselves and finding happiness
This is a sweet story with an unfortunate background. Both main characters have been living to please others even at the expense of their own personalities, wants and needs.
FMC is definitely a grumpy one and for good reason. Her ex was controlling and abusive causing her to become a shell she didn't even realize she was.
MMC ran after his gf tried to propose and he realized he didn't want that future. He drove until he was going to run out of gas and landed in this little town. He walked into a local bar and was offered a job that he took immediately.
Watching these two characters find themselves and work through everything they had been through is absolutely beautiful. I laughed, cried and cheered along with them.
Having read AE's first book this was very different but I still really enjoyed it. I love the way she brings characters to life. She allows you to step into their trauma and grow with them. It's something not every author can do. Some authors are fantastic at the stories and some are great with emotions and connections but there are fewer that can do both like she can. I can't wait to see what's next.
This is a sweet story with an unfortunate background. Both main characters have been living to please others even at the expense of their own personalities, wants and needs.
FMC is definitely a grumpy one and for good reason. Her ex was controlling and abusive causing her to become a shell she didn't even realize she was.
MMC ran after his gf tried to propose and he realized he didn't want that future. He drove until he was going to run out of gas and landed in this little town. He walked into a local bar and was offered a job that he took immediately.
Watching these two characters find themselves and work through everything they had been through is absolutely beautiful. I laughed, cried and cheered along with them.
Having read AE's first book this was very different but I still really enjoyed it. I love the way she brings characters to life. She allows you to step into their trauma and grow with them. It's something not every author can do. Some authors are fantastic at the stories and some are great with emotions and connections but there are fewer that can do both like she can. I can't wait to see what's next.
July 1, 2025
This book has all of the feels and also some heavy topics. Check trigger warnings.
Cinnamon roll hero/ tough as nails heroine
Matthews is our MMC who comes across the town of Lighton while driving as fast and as far away from his ex girlfriend and unsupportive parents as possible. He never intended to stay but after stopping by the Dusty Rose for a drink and off handedly asking for a job he’s hired as the new bartender. Only problem is Isla the owner didn’t approve the higher. Isla’s going through it and trying to remain strong. She’s survived the torment of her husband so far and at the end of the day that’s what she does is be a survivor. The two enter a fake dating arrangement that was never really all that fake on either of their parts, and end up falling for each other.
Loved how supportive Matthew was of Isla he never took her as anything less than she was. And Isla while having her own struggles doesn’t hesitate to stand up for Matthew when his ex and parents belittle him. Loved the way these two can lean on each other no matter what. This book was an emotional ride for sure! But loved every second of it. Thank you so much for the ARC copy 🩷
Cinnamon roll hero/ tough as nails heroine
Matthews is our MMC who comes across the town of Lighton while driving as fast and as far away from his ex girlfriend and unsupportive parents as possible. He never intended to stay but after stopping by the Dusty Rose for a drink and off handedly asking for a job he’s hired as the new bartender. Only problem is Isla the owner didn’t approve the higher. Isla’s going through it and trying to remain strong. She’s survived the torment of her husband so far and at the end of the day that’s what she does is be a survivor. The two enter a fake dating arrangement that was never really all that fake on either of their parts, and end up falling for each other.
Loved how supportive Matthew was of Isla he never took her as anything less than she was. And Isla while having her own struggles doesn’t hesitate to stand up for Matthew when his ex and parents belittle him. Loved the way these two can lean on each other no matter what. This book was an emotional ride for sure! But loved every second of it. Thank you so much for the ARC copy 🩷
July 2, 2025
Beta Review
I enjoyed reading this, I liked the characters. The story line is a little different than what I usually read. She’s the cowboy and he’s the city guy. It also breaks your heart a little, I’m not sobbing you are. It had some great bones.
I then read the Arc copy and wow A.E. Boss really did a wonderful job editing and polishing up the story line. The character development was well done. I loved how the Morton siblings and family really show up for each other. I cheered, I again maybe cried even though I knew it was coming. You’ll want to hug Isla and give Mathew a high five for being so damn sweet . I also not so secretly love how nerdy Mathew is.
I’m going to need Cora to get her own book. Please and thank you!
Favourite quotes-
“Anything for you, Isla Rae. Any day, any time, dating or friends, doesn’t matter to me.”
“A good man wouldn’t leave his girl alone during the love song to end all love songs,” he replied, kissing my neck again before pulling me flush against him and swaying along to the music. Oh motherfucker, I was so gone.”
July 11, 2025
Oh, this one hurted. I truly did not know what to expect going into a small town romance after the emotional dark romance that was Sign Here, but I can truly say that I was not disappointed.
Isla and Matthew are characters that I have been so ready to meet for the past year. I knew that these would be some of my favorite characters that I’ve ever read, but I didn’t know the emotional distress that I would have to go through each time I opened this book. This book was such an emotional roller coaster, and I loved every second of it.
This is a slow burn that burned so slowly that I could not wait for these characters to admit their actual feelings to each other. I feel like it was the best way to go about telling their story though because of what both of them were going through individually.
A really made up for the slow burn by giving us both a “fuck it” moment and “we’ll make it fit” moment all in one scene, so she is forgiven.
I am absolutely so grateful to have received an ARC of this book from my Bestie, the author.
Isla and Matthew are characters that I have been so ready to meet for the past year. I knew that these would be some of my favorite characters that I’ve ever read, but I didn’t know the emotional distress that I would have to go through each time I opened this book. This book was such an emotional roller coaster, and I loved every second of it.
This is a slow burn that burned so slowly that I could not wait for these characters to admit their actual feelings to each other. I feel like it was the best way to go about telling their story though because of what both of them were going through individually.
A really made up for the slow burn by giving us both a “fuck it” moment and “we’ll make it fit” moment all in one scene, so she is forgiven.
I am absolutely so grateful to have received an ARC of this book from my Bestie, the author.
June 30, 2025
This was a 4.5-star read for me.
This book is a beautifully written and deeply emotional story about a woman finding the strength to break free from an abusive relationship—both verbal and physical—and begin her journey of healing. Watching Isla learn to trust, to love again, and to reclaim her sense of self was both heartbreaking and inspiring. 💔💫
One of my favorite parts was Isla’s relationship with her family. The love and support between them felt so genuine, and I cannot wait to read more about them in future books.
Matthew… what a man. 🥹 The way he showed up for Isla—patient, kind, and always knowing just what she needed—was absolutely everything. And don’t even get me started on his ex and his family. Ugh. No words. 😤
The side characters were so well done, too. Each one added something special to the story and made the world feel full and alive.
I’ll definitely be keeping my eye on what A.E. Boss writes next. She’s got a winner here! 💙
Thank You A.E. Boss for the ARC.
This book is a beautifully written and deeply emotional story about a woman finding the strength to break free from an abusive relationship—both verbal and physical—and begin her journey of healing. Watching Isla learn to trust, to love again, and to reclaim her sense of self was both heartbreaking and inspiring. 💔💫
One of my favorite parts was Isla’s relationship with her family. The love and support between them felt so genuine, and I cannot wait to read more about them in future books.
Matthew… what a man. 🥹 The way he showed up for Isla—patient, kind, and always knowing just what she needed—was absolutely everything. And don’t even get me started on his ex and his family. Ugh. No words. 😤
The side characters were so well done, too. Each one added something special to the story and made the world feel full and alive.
I’ll definitely be keeping my eye on what A.E. Boss writes next. She’s got a winner here! 💙
Thank You A.E. Boss for the ARC.
July 6, 2025
This novel is a shining tribute to the human spirit's capacity for resilience, masterfully navigating complex emotions and somber topics with remarkable sensitivity, thus necessitating trigger warnings.
The beautifully written, straightforward fake dating to lovers plot, set in a small-town setting, proved utterly captivating. As the narrative tackles Isla's long-standing trauma and her eventual empowerment with remarkable empathy, it prompts a strong emotional response, especially when she shares her story with Matthew and her family.
Her family's supportive nature and Matthew's growth as he regains control of his life after years of coercive control are truly uplifting. Matthew's love and support for Isla, who appears to be neurodivergent, serve as a beautiful celebration of the human capacity for love.
This book is an emotional experience, but I felt deeply moved by every moment. Thank you to A.E. Boss for the ARC copy.
The beautifully written, straightforward fake dating to lovers plot, set in a small-town setting, proved utterly captivating. As the narrative tackles Isla's long-standing trauma and her eventual empowerment with remarkable empathy, it prompts a strong emotional response, especially when she shares her story with Matthew and her family.
Her family's supportive nature and Matthew's growth as he regains control of his life after years of coercive control are truly uplifting. Matthew's love and support for Isla, who appears to be neurodivergent, serve as a beautiful celebration of the human capacity for love.
This book is an emotional experience, but I felt deeply moved by every moment. Thank you to A.E. Boss for the ARC copy.
July 12, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
Talk about a perfect reverse grumpy/sunshine 🥹 I had an absolute blast watching Matthew and Isla in their story and I’ve never read a softer, more emotionally mature MMC, he’s so gentle and kind and I adored him and how he was with her 🫶🏻
It was so lovely watching Matthew and Isla grow together, coming from their different but awful backstories and realising that love does exist, even if they hadn’t experienced it themselves from family/ex’s 🫶🏻
This definitely covers some triggering topics, so definitely check the warnings before you jump into it. This is also a little different to A. E. Boss’ previous works and holy moly she knows how to write a slower burn with all the suspense, but still hitting the more sensitive topics with such care as always! ❤️
I cannot wait to see who were following in the next book from the Love in Lighton series, I’m obsessed with the world already and need to be with these characters again💖
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
Talk about a perfect reverse grumpy/sunshine 🥹 I had an absolute blast watching Matthew and Isla in their story and I’ve never read a softer, more emotionally mature MMC, he’s so gentle and kind and I adored him and how he was with her 🫶🏻
It was so lovely watching Matthew and Isla grow together, coming from their different but awful backstories and realising that love does exist, even if they hadn’t experienced it themselves from family/ex’s 🫶🏻
This definitely covers some triggering topics, so definitely check the warnings before you jump into it. This is also a little different to A. E. Boss’ previous works and holy moly she knows how to write a slower burn with all the suspense, but still hitting the more sensitive topics with such care as always! ❤️
I cannot wait to see who were following in the next book from the Love in Lighton series, I’m obsessed with the world already and need to be with these characters again💖
July 3, 2025
I'm so in love with this book! I didn't want it to end but it was absolutely perfect 😩 this has such a great storyline, and the chemistry between the characters is so amazing. A.E Boss has a way of just pulling me into her books.
Isla is such a badass FMC! Which is no surprise when you find out how much of a badass her mom Hazel is. To overcome everything she did to still be standing so strong, I love her. And the same goes for Matthew, so amazing for them to stick up for themselves and each other when faced with people trying to keep them down.
I think everyone needs a family like the Marrons, and I hope to see more of them in the future in this series because I just can't seem to get enough! To have such a strong support system in your life is truly something that is a blessing.
Isla is such a badass FMC! Which is no surprise when you find out how much of a badass her mom Hazel is. To overcome everything she did to still be standing so strong, I love her. And the same goes for Matthew, so amazing for them to stick up for themselves and each other when faced with people trying to keep them down.
I think everyone needs a family like the Marrons, and I hope to see more of them in the future in this series because I just can't seem to get enough! To have such a strong support system in your life is truly something that is a blessing.
July 5, 2025
Isla and Matthew are two souls clawing their way out of toxic, controlling relationships. What begins as a ‘fake’ arrangement to keep their obsessive exes at bay quickly becomes something real — something raw and healing.
Their connection isn’t just chemistry; it’s safety, trust, and finally being seen for who they are. Watching them learn to open their hearts again felt like watching two people learn to breathe for the first time.
Matthew… the kind of man who protects your heart without ever trying to cage it. Absolute perfection.
Isla’s fierce, ride-or-die family completely stole my heart, and the side characters brought so much warmth and life to the story.
This is more than a romance — it’s a story of rebuilding, reclaiming your power, and finding love that feels like coming home. Beautiful, raw, and unforgettable. 💙
Please check trigger warnings before diving in!
Their connection isn’t just chemistry; it’s safety, trust, and finally being seen for who they are. Watching them learn to open their hearts again felt like watching two people learn to breathe for the first time.
Matthew… the kind of man who protects your heart without ever trying to cage it. Absolute perfection.
Isla’s fierce, ride-or-die family completely stole my heart, and the side characters brought so much warmth and life to the story.
This is more than a romance — it’s a story of rebuilding, reclaiming your power, and finding love that feels like coming home. Beautiful, raw, and unforgettable. 💙
Please check trigger warnings before diving in!
July 22, 2025
I became a fan of A’s last year when I arc’d her debut 𝑺𝒊𝒈𝒏 𝑯𝒆𝒓𝒆 and this one was even better!
𝑼𝒑 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝑵𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 is packed full of tragedies and triumphs. Isla, the FMC is the grumpy x sunshine, and for good reason. She endures an abusive relationship, town gossip, and a stalker ex, rises above it all and unexpectedly falls in love with a “city boy”. Matthew is everything you need in an MMC, smart, funny, kind, generous, all the things. I truly enjoyed this story and the emotional roller coaster was a ride lemme tell ya! I love this author’s writing style and the way we get drawn in immediately to each story. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series!
𝑼𝒑 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝑵𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕: 𝑨 𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝑳𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒐𝒏 𝑵𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒍 is a small town, reverse grumpy x sunshine, with fake dating, suspense, and cowgirl x city boy with slow burn and a fierce, resilient FMC. It is available now on Amazon and KU.
𝑼𝒑 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝑵𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 is packed full of tragedies and triumphs. Isla, the FMC is the grumpy x sunshine, and for good reason. She endures an abusive relationship, town gossip, and a stalker ex, rises above it all and unexpectedly falls in love with a “city boy”. Matthew is everything you need in an MMC, smart, funny, kind, generous, all the things. I truly enjoyed this story and the emotional roller coaster was a ride lemme tell ya! I love this author’s writing style and the way we get drawn in immediately to each story. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series!
𝑼𝒑 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝑵𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕: 𝑨 𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝑳𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒐𝒏 𝑵𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒍 is a small town, reverse grumpy x sunshine, with fake dating, suspense, and cowgirl x city boy with slow burn and a fierce, resilient FMC. It is available now on Amazon and KU.
June 30, 2025
This was the book I didn’t know I needed to read. After a slew of extremely dark books, this was a straightforwardish fake dating to lovers, set in a small town.
Not to say that this is light and fluffy, because it really, truly isn’t. Isla is totally traumatised, and I actually wept for her when she told Matthew and then her family. And her family were awesome, and when her mother lets loose at a certain character, I was cheering her on and her supportive siblings were just the best.
I loved Matthew too, taking back control of his life after years of coercive control, seeing his enthusiasm reignite was perfect. But Isla was fantastic, she felt neurodivergent to me, with her routines and lists and the way Matthew loved and supported her was beautiful.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Not to say that this is light and fluffy, because it really, truly isn’t. Isla is totally traumatised, and I actually wept for her when she told Matthew and then her family. And her family were awesome, and when her mother lets loose at a certain character, I was cheering her on and her supportive siblings were just the best.
I loved Matthew too, taking back control of his life after years of coercive control, seeing his enthusiasm reignite was perfect. But Isla was fantastic, she felt neurodivergent to me, with her routines and lists and the way Matthew loved and supported her was beautiful.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
July 4, 2025
ISLA GIRLLLL👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I ate this book up! I was so mad to still have adult responsibilities because I never wanted to put it down. Matthew was the greatest green flag and so good for Isla. I loved Isla, every part of her resonated with me and I was so glad she wasn’t the “damsel in distress”, she was such a badass! All of the Marrons were so memorable and incredible! The family Matthew found himself in, made my heart explode. The trials and triumphs that Isla and Matthew went though made the ending that much sweeter. I can’t wait for book two because I NEED a certain two people to finally give in! ❤️ If you love found families, small towns, a badass fmc, and fake dating, then I highly recommend picking this up!
I ate this book up! I was so mad to still have adult responsibilities because I never wanted to put it down. Matthew was the greatest green flag and so good for Isla. I loved Isla, every part of her resonated with me and I was so glad she wasn’t the “damsel in distress”, she was such a badass! All of the Marrons were so memorable and incredible! The family Matthew found himself in, made my heart explode. The trials and triumphs that Isla and Matthew went though made the ending that much sweeter. I can’t wait for book two because I NEED a certain two people to finally give in! ❤️ If you love found families, small towns, a badass fmc, and fake dating, then I highly recommend picking this up!
July 4, 2025
I really loved the character development with each main character as well as the relationship between them and the other characters. Isla really comes out of her shell and learns a lot about what she's made of. she just needed the right person. Matthew was a great MMC. He was caring and soft hearted. I loved that he finally realized his life was not what he wanted, and instead of just going along with it, he stepped out and realized there was more to life. Overall, I loved it. I thought it flowed really well. I loved how detailed it was. I loved the protective parents. It made me wish I had that kind of relationship. Momma did not put up with no crap!
July 6, 2025
Black cat x Golden retriever
Grumpy x Sunshine
Found Family
Trauma on top of Trauma
Cute kitty cat
Small Town
Cowgirl x City boy
Our FMC Ilsa, is a strong-headed, grumpy lady of small words. She has been hiding a huge secret, that her husband, the local police officer, has been hurting her.
Our MMC Matthew is a sweet man, running from controlling parents and ex-fiance (will she ever get the message??!).
What begins as a ‘fake’ dating situation to keep their messy exes at bay quickly becomes something real, something healing.
This book has depth and covers some very deep subjects, such as DV, stalking, forced and more, so please check your triggers.
Grumpy x Sunshine
Found Family
Trauma on top of Trauma
Cute kitty cat
Small Town
Cowgirl x City boy
Our FMC Ilsa, is a strong-headed, grumpy lady of small words. She has been hiding a huge secret, that her husband, the local police officer, has been hurting her.
Our MMC Matthew is a sweet man, running from controlling parents and ex-fiance (will she ever get the message??!).
What begins as a ‘fake’ dating situation to keep their messy exes at bay quickly becomes something real, something healing.
This book has depth and covers some very deep subjects, such as DV, stalking, forced and more, so please check your triggers.
July 21, 2025
This Author has done it again!
So beautifully written and it really hits that spot in your heart, it is a book to cry to, to laugh to and to look at in your shelf when you want to think about something else.
I said it the last time and I‘ll say it again: The Author has such a beautiful and heartwrenching way of portraying trauma that is so real and authentic, that I could always cry when I read it.
The story unfolded very well, I enjoyed the read and learned to love all of the characters quickly, of course I learned to love our fmc the most :D
The only con I could have, is that Matthew seemed a bit…bland in comparison, so look at my four stars as 4,75/5 ^^
So beautifully written and it really hits that spot in your heart, it is a book to cry to, to laugh to and to look at in your shelf when you want to think about something else.
I said it the last time and I‘ll say it again: The Author has such a beautiful and heartwrenching way of portraying trauma that is so real and authentic, that I could always cry when I read it.
The story unfolded very well, I enjoyed the read and learned to love all of the characters quickly, of course I learned to love our fmc the most :D
The only con I could have, is that Matthew seemed a bit…bland in comparison, so look at my four stars as 4,75/5 ^^
July 31, 2025
Isla and Matthew have my heart just as much as the rest of the family does.
They are two imperfect people who come together to help each other with the problems in their respective personal lives. Nights spent together show them that trusting each other could be a good thing but the issues they are trying to stay away from, find a way to be smack dab in the center of their lives.
Matthew is the cutest presence in Isla's life and ... I want Isla's family for my own.
Isla is the grumpy to Matthew's sunshine and her family shows him what a family SHOULD look like.
I could read a whole series on just them, but I'll settle for the siblings stories and get more through all of them.
They are two imperfect people who come together to help each other with the problems in their respective personal lives. Nights spent together show them that trusting each other could be a good thing but the issues they are trying to stay away from, find a way to be smack dab in the center of their lives.
Matthew is the cutest presence in Isla's life and ... I want Isla's family for my own.
Isla is the grumpy to Matthew's sunshine and her family shows him what a family SHOULD look like.
I could read a whole series on just them, but I'll settle for the siblings stories and get more through all of them.
June 29, 2025
Please be sure to read warnings as there are some triggers in the story.
This book had me on a roller coaster of emotions from beginning to end. There are so many relatable topics covered. Isa and Matthew have so many hard times but seeing them grow stronger and focus on helping each other through these times was amazing. See them grow as people made this story so relatable.
A.E. Boss truly did an amazing job with this book and she has new fan. I can’t wait to see what happens next in the Love in Lighton series.
This book had me on a roller coaster of emotions from beginning to end. There are so many relatable topics covered. Isa and Matthew have so many hard times but seeing them grow stronger and focus on helping each other through these times was amazing. See them grow as people made this story so relatable.
A.E. Boss truly did an amazing job with this book and she has new fan. I can’t wait to see what happens next in the Love in Lighton series.
July 7, 2025
This book is everything
Isla is such a grumpy, hardworking, intelligent, and strong as hell FMC. Her relationship with her siblings is hilarious and heartwarming and her parents are gold. This only makes her life/backstory that much more heartbreaking. The reality intertwined within her story is a testament to the struggle and strength women in the same situation endure and push through.
Matthew is a golden retriever personified. His immediate love of Lighton is believable and wonderful. Add fake dating the town ice queen to help each other escape past relationships. Yes. Please.
"The biggest lesson I was learning was that daily life didn’t have to be boring or stressful. Matthew could make me smile over a bottle of cinnamon or give me butterflies by telling me the difference between bread flour and all-purpose flour."
I loved, laughed, and cried within the pages of this book and I cannot wait to see these characters again.
I was worried about how this book would be considering it is such a different world from Sign Here (top book of 2024) but AE Boss has made me believe that anything she writes will be MAGIC (and make me cry).
10/10 recommend infinity stars ✨️
Isla is such a grumpy, hardworking, intelligent, and strong as hell FMC. Her relationship with her siblings is hilarious and heartwarming and her parents are gold. This only makes her life/backstory that much more heartbreaking. The reality intertwined within her story is a testament to the struggle and strength women in the same situation endure and push through.
Matthew is a golden retriever personified. His immediate love of Lighton is believable and wonderful. Add fake dating the town ice queen to help each other escape past relationships. Yes. Please.
"The biggest lesson I was learning was that daily life didn’t have to be boring or stressful. Matthew could make me smile over a bottle of cinnamon or give me butterflies by telling me the difference between bread flour and all-purpose flour."
I loved, laughed, and cried within the pages of this book and I cannot wait to see these characters again.
I was worried about how this book would be considering it is such a different world from Sign Here (top book of 2024) but AE Boss has made me believe that anything she writes will be MAGIC (and make me cry).
10/10 recommend infinity stars ✨️
July 3, 2025
I was sucked in from the first page!! What a great grumpyxsunshine slow burn (kinda dark) romance! Matthew is on the road to anywhere but home, and he ends up in Leighton. He finds himself a job, meets some friends, and his boss Isla. He does not want to tell everyone why he left and Isla has some issues of her own. Isla is struggling in an abusive marriage, make sure to check your tw’s. I am so proud of Islas growth throughout the story and the strength she’s gained in standing up for herself.
I was not expecting what happens at the end, it left me wanting more already!!
I was not expecting what happens at the end, it left me wanting more already!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2025
I think I may have just found my new favorite author!
This book was one that I just simply could not put down! The way it is written is so easy to follow and immerse yourself into the characters. It has such a storyline that you easily get wrapped into and want to keep reading to see what happens next! Isla and Matthew have that undeniable chemistry that you can’t help but root for, and watching the growth of Isla and how they both help each other was something that kept me hooked! 10/10 recommend!
This book was one that I just simply could not put down! The way it is written is so easy to follow and immerse yourself into the characters. It has such a storyline that you easily get wrapped into and want to keep reading to see what happens next! Isla and Matthew have that undeniable chemistry that you can’t help but root for, and watching the growth of Isla and how they both help each other was something that kept me hooked! 10/10 recommend!
October 7, 2025
I finished Up All Night and it was super cute! I am so happy I got around to this book! It was a super fun read, I enjoyed the ice queen mentality and of course that it was a small town romance.
It’s a fake dating small town romance where he falls first and she needs a protector. They are both going through so much throughout this book that they have to start relying on each other to make it through.
The only thing I personally wanted more of would be closure on Matthew’s past. To me it felt a little soft and I would have wanted more drama.
It’s a fake dating small town romance where he falls first and she needs a protector. They are both going through so much throughout this book that they have to start relying on each other to make it through.
The only thing I personally wanted more of would be closure on Matthew’s past. To me it felt a little soft and I would have wanted more drama.
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