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The Brunswick Series #2
Off-limits
She’s my little sister’s best friend. My kids’ favorite babysitter. And the one woman I’ve spent years convincing myself I can’t want.
Running for mayor of my small town wasn’t in the plan, but between my daughter’s PE teacher nominating me and the town rallying behind it, here I am. Add an evil ex-wife suing for custody and the last thing I need is another distraction.
That’s exactly what Shae Levinson is—a distraction.
Shae’s always been magnetic, her wild red curls and sharp wit impossible to ignore. But since she returned from college eight years ago, something in her changed—a quiet sadness she keeps hidden from the world, but I see it.
I’ve tried to keep her in the “off-limits” category where she belongs, but lately, that’s been impossible.
It used to just be the occasional family dinner but now she’s everywhere—helping with the kids, volunteering for my campaign, staying late to strategize. Each moment with her chips away at my resolve. She’s too close to my family, too much to lose if things don’t work out.
But the pull is undeniable.
For eight years, I’ve done the right thing and kept my distance. Always being the good guy is exhausting. I’m tired and those walls are crumbling fast. Giving in could cost me everything.
But then again, what if it’s worth it?
Off-limits is a steamy age gap, forbidden romance between a reserved tech genius running for mayor of his small town and his little sister’s best friend. If you love slow-burn tension, unspoken desires, and heartfelt emotions, this story will pull you in. A part of a series but also, a standalone romance filled with all the feels, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed HEA.
Running for mayor of my small town wasn’t in the plan, but between my daughter’s PE teacher nominating me and the town rallying behind it, here I am. Add an evil ex-wife suing for custody and the last thing I need is another distraction.
That’s exactly what Shae Levinson is—a distraction.
Shae’s always been magnetic, her wild red curls and sharp wit impossible to ignore. But since she returned from college eight years ago, something in her changed—a quiet sadness she keeps hidden from the world, but I see it.
I’ve tried to keep her in the “off-limits” category where she belongs, but lately, that’s been impossible.
It used to just be the occasional family dinner but now she’s everywhere—helping with the kids, volunteering for my campaign, staying late to strategize. Each moment with her chips away at my resolve. She’s too close to my family, too much to lose if things don’t work out.
But the pull is undeniable.
For eight years, I’ve done the right thing and kept my distance. Always being the good guy is exhausting. I’m tired and those walls are crumbling fast. Giving in could cost me everything.
But then again, what if it’s worth it?
Off-limits is a steamy age gap, forbidden romance between a reserved tech genius running for mayor of his small town and his little sister’s best friend. If you love slow-burn tension, unspoken desires, and heartfelt emotions, this story will pull you in. A part of a series but also, a standalone romance filled with all the feels, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed HEA.
- GenresRomance
344 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2025
10 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 23, 2025
Hmmm… surprisingly, I read Book 3 first, then I got an ARC of this one. I must say it’s better developed than the previous story. I’m a fan of the older single dad trope, so I really enjoyed this story. I appreciate the fact that our MMC was in therapy (so many books miss that very much-needed aspect).
The FMC’s trauma was also portrayed well-it added depth to the story and showed that this book wasn’t all butterflies and rainbows. The kids were cute, and overall, it was an interesting story.
The FMC’s trauma was also portrayed well-it added depth to the story and showed that this book wasn’t all butterflies and rainbows. The kids were cute, and overall, it was an interesting story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2025
Stalked . . .
Shae Levinson is the best friend of Cal’s younger sister and has become Willow and Rowe, Cal’s two kids’, favorite babysitter. He is always doing things for others and not claiming happiness for himself. He even let himself get pushed into running for mayor of his small town when his daughter’s PE teacher got things going and the town enthusiastically supported the idea. And if that wasn’t enough to handle, he is also dealing with his horrible ex-wife who wants custody of their kids. So having Shae around is becoming a big distraction he doesn’t need. He is attracted to her but struggling not to show his interest. Yet she shows up everywhere he is, trying to support him, and it makes it more difficult to ignore her. He realizes something changed in college, but he never found out what until she finally told him about a professor who raped her and threatened her loved ones if she said anything. He has watched her over 8 years now so she must avoid all relationships or it will put others in danger, and it seems like his craziness is escalating. Shae tries to protect Cal because he is the one she loves. But her horror is not over yet when she is kidnapped. Will Shae survive this time? Will Cal find her before it’s too late? Are they ready to acknowledge the love they have for each other?
Shae Levinson is the best friend of Cal’s younger sister and has become Willow and Rowe, Cal’s two kids’, favorite babysitter. He is always doing things for others and not claiming happiness for himself. He even let himself get pushed into running for mayor of his small town when his daughter’s PE teacher got things going and the town enthusiastically supported the idea. And if that wasn’t enough to handle, he is also dealing with his horrible ex-wife who wants custody of their kids. So having Shae around is becoming a big distraction he doesn’t need. He is attracted to her but struggling not to show his interest. Yet she shows up everywhere he is, trying to support him, and it makes it more difficult to ignore her. He realizes something changed in college, but he never found out what until she finally told him about a professor who raped her and threatened her loved ones if she said anything. He has watched her over 8 years now so she must avoid all relationships or it will put others in danger, and it seems like his craziness is escalating. Shae tries to protect Cal because he is the one she loves. But her horror is not over yet when she is kidnapped. Will Shae survive this time? Will Cal find her before it’s too late? Are they ready to acknowledge the love they have for each other?
August 12, 2025
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via BookSirens. This in no way impacted on my view.
Cal Calloway has never wanted anything to do with politics, so how has he allowed his sister's best friend Shae to convince him to run for mayor of Brunswick, GA? Maybe the fact that he would do anything for Shae, though he knows she's off limits. She's not only his sister's age, but also his babysitter, and he's in the middle of a custody battle. But he can't deny his feelings, especially not when it looks like she feels exactly the same. However, Shae is hiding something, and there's a reason why she is pushing him away.
I love the best-friend's-brother trope, and Mariah shot it out of the park with this one. Shae was such a complex character, with an awful backstory, and it was great seeing her growth throughout the book, and how she allowed herself the chance to be happy and let Cal, Willow and Rowe in to her heart. I haven't read book 1, but it wasn't really necessary because we get to know the whole cast of characters really well without needing to see Bree and Cohen's story. Cal was definitely a protector, who would do anything at all for the ones he loves, and he was perfect for Shae, both supporting her and fighting for her in equal measure. The epilogue tied their story up nicely, and has definitely whet my appetite for book 3.
Cal Calloway has never wanted anything to do with politics, so how has he allowed his sister's best friend Shae to convince him to run for mayor of Brunswick, GA? Maybe the fact that he would do anything for Shae, though he knows she's off limits. She's not only his sister's age, but also his babysitter, and he's in the middle of a custody battle. But he can't deny his feelings, especially not when it looks like she feels exactly the same. However, Shae is hiding something, and there's a reason why she is pushing him away.
I love the best-friend's-brother trope, and Mariah shot it out of the park with this one. Shae was such a complex character, with an awful backstory, and it was great seeing her growth throughout the book, and how she allowed herself the chance to be happy and let Cal, Willow and Rowe in to her heart. I haven't read book 1, but it wasn't really necessary because we get to know the whole cast of characters really well without needing to see Bree and Cohen's story. Cal was definitely a protector, who would do anything at all for the ones he loves, and he was perfect for Shae, both supporting her and fighting for her in equal measure. The epilogue tied their story up nicely, and has definitely whet my appetite for book 3.
May 12, 2025
I picked up this book because of the cover—and I’m so glad I did, because the story inside completely pulled me in. From page one, I was hooked on the raw emotion, the slow-burn tension, and the layered, real characters.
Shae and Clay feel like your best friends—people you root for without hesitation. Clay is a devoted single dad, doing everything for his kids after their mother walked out. Shae, his sister’s lifelong best friend, has loved him silently for years, but there are so many reasons they can't be together… or so they think.
There’s angst, drama, and moments that’ll make you say “WTF” out loud—in the best way. Between Clay’s custody battle, Shae’s haunting past, a small-town mayoral campaign, and their simmering chemistry, this story never stops moving. And yet, it never feels rushed.
Mariah Jolie's storytelling is heartfelt and gripping, and the emotional payoff is worth every twist and turn. This book made me feel everything—and left me with a full heart. Highly recommend if you love forbidden romance, emotional depth, and characters that stay with you long after the last page.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Shae and Clay feel like your best friends—people you root for without hesitation. Clay is a devoted single dad, doing everything for his kids after their mother walked out. Shae, his sister’s lifelong best friend, has loved him silently for years, but there are so many reasons they can't be together… or so they think.
There’s angst, drama, and moments that’ll make you say “WTF” out loud—in the best way. Between Clay’s custody battle, Shae’s haunting past, a small-town mayoral campaign, and their simmering chemistry, this story never stops moving. And yet, it never feels rushed.
Mariah Jolie's storytelling is heartfelt and gripping, and the emotional payoff is worth every twist and turn. This book made me feel everything—and left me with a full heart. Highly recommend if you love forbidden romance, emotional depth, and characters that stay with you long after the last page.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 14, 2025
Clay and Shae have been friends for a long time, especially since Shae is Clay’s little sister’s best friend. Clay and Shae have been secretly in love with each other for years. Clay, a single father of two delightful children, felt like their age difference and her being his sister’s best friend made her off limits. Shae’s haunting past made her feel like Brad was off limits. Both want more but do not know how to get there. Clay decides to run for mayor and those late-night strategy meetings become the catalyst for moving them from friend zone to lovers. Not all is a bed of roses since Clay’s vindictive ex-wife, who abandoned her family, decides she wants full custody of the children.
I enjoyed the book and appreciated the emotional depth of the bond between Clay and Shae. They had a deeply caring and fun relationship that went beyond the bounds of friends. I also liked the slow transformation of their relationship when they realized that they could be more than friends. The characters, the storyline, and world building were great. I would recommend this book to readers that like slow burn, emotional, angst, drama, and forbidden romance stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed the book and appreciated the emotional depth of the bond between Clay and Shae. They had a deeply caring and fun relationship that went beyond the bounds of friends. I also liked the slow transformation of their relationship when they realized that they could be more than friends. The characters, the storyline, and world building were great. I would recommend this book to readers that like slow burn, emotional, angst, drama, and forbidden romance stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 7, 2025
This book has all the makings for a solid small town romance. Who doesn't love a rich, single dad with a heart of gold, a smart and caring heroine, and just enough tension to keep things interesting? Cal and Shae have been friends for almost a lifetime. They have great chemistry, especially when they’re in those everyday moments playing with the kids, working on the campaign, or just hanging out. Those were easily my favorite parts of the book.
That said, the story moved a little too slowly for me. The push and pull dragged on longer than it needed to, and some chapters felt repetitive. I wanted more fun and romantic build up, and less time spent in Cal’s head debating the same conflict that didn't seem to be an issue with anyone else over and over. The same could be said for Shea. Avoid him to protect him? It got old.
The kids were adorable and brought a lot of warmth to the story, and Shae’s relationship with them was really sweet. But overall, I found myself wishing for a bit more spark and momentum.
A cute read with likable characters, but not one that fully swept me off my feet.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
That said, the story moved a little too slowly for me. The push and pull dragged on longer than it needed to, and some chapters felt repetitive. I wanted more fun and romantic build up, and less time spent in Cal’s head debating the same conflict that didn't seem to be an issue with anyone else over and over. The same could be said for Shea. Avoid him to protect him? It got old.
The kids were adorable and brought a lot of warmth to the story, and Shae’s relationship with them was really sweet. But overall, I found myself wishing for a bit more spark and momentum.
A cute read with likable characters, but not one that fully swept me off my feet.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 13, 2025
Thank you BookSirens and Mariah Jolie for an ARC of this book for an honest review.
I devoured Off-Limits in one sitting—yes, it’s that good. This was a solid 5-star read filled with heart, humor, and incredible character dynamics.
The characters were everything, and the side characters truly stole the show (I need Harper and Dex’s story immediately, please and thank you). You know who the villains are from early on, but not exactly what they’ve done or what they’ll do, which adds a fantastic sense of dread and growing hatred as the plot unfolds—brilliantly done.
Rowe, Cal’s son, being obsessed with Paw Patrol? A recurring gag that had me cackling—and as a special education teacher with a student who’s equally obsessed, I felt so seen.
The emotional depth and growth were spot-on. It wasn’t just about the romance (though Cal and Evie are chef’s kiss); it was about found family, healing, and mutual support across the entire cast. And the banter? On point.
Tropes you’ll love:
• Single dad
• Forbidden romance
• Best Friend’s Brother
• Grumpy x sunshine
• Found family
• Small town
Highly recommend picking this one up—Mariah Jolie has knocked it out of the park.
I devoured Off-Limits in one sitting—yes, it’s that good. This was a solid 5-star read filled with heart, humor, and incredible character dynamics.
The characters were everything, and the side characters truly stole the show (I need Harper and Dex’s story immediately, please and thank you). You know who the villains are from early on, but not exactly what they’ve done or what they’ll do, which adds a fantastic sense of dread and growing hatred as the plot unfolds—brilliantly done.
Rowe, Cal’s son, being obsessed with Paw Patrol? A recurring gag that had me cackling—and as a special education teacher with a student who’s equally obsessed, I felt so seen.
The emotional depth and growth were spot-on. It wasn’t just about the romance (though Cal and Evie are chef’s kiss); it was about found family, healing, and mutual support across the entire cast. And the banter? On point.
Tropes you’ll love:
• Single dad
• Forbidden romance
• Best Friend’s Brother
• Grumpy x sunshine
• Found family
• Small town
Highly recommend picking this one up—Mariah Jolie has knocked it out of the park.
May 8, 2025
Cal was running for Mayor not because he necessarily wanted to but because he was nominated by someone who knew him well enough to realize he would be great for the position. The problem was he was dealing with his ex-wife who wanted to get full custody of their 2 kids and Shae. Why was Shae a problem? Well you see she was the woman who was off limits for 2 reasons - a) she was several years younger and b) she was his younger sister’s best friend. In his head, Cal didn’t want to take the chance, but his heart told him a completely different story. Now they had to figure out if they could be able to work through all the secrets, the problems and anything else that was thrown at them in this small town.
This is the next book in the series that while it suggests small town rom-com it doesn’t quite fit that stand point. You do not have to read the books in order which is nice. There was a lot of good parts in it, but also some areas that dragged a little bit. I think your mood and the way your day is going can play a big factor on how you enjoy this book.
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.
This is the next book in the series that while it suggests small town rom-com it doesn’t quite fit that stand point. You do not have to read the books in order which is nice. There was a lot of good parts in it, but also some areas that dragged a little bit. I think your mood and the way your day is going can play a big factor on how you enjoy this book.
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.
May 19, 2025
OFF-LIMITS by Mariah Jolie is the second book in the Brunswick series. I look forward to reading more books by this author and not just in this series.
This is Shae and Cal’s story and they take one step forward and so many more back. She’s best friends with his sister so she’s always been off-limits. He’s a single dad to two kids and his ex wife is definitely a piece of work. Shae has been dealing with a lot since college when something bad happened to her by someone she should have been able to trust. She’s kept her silence for eight years but things are starting to escalate and Cal wants to be there for her,
There are multiple stories being told including his run for mayor of their small town. He’s always hated politics but with Shae and those in their friends group by his side, he’s got this. There’s a nice flow to the story and I was engrossed throughout even with the fear and darkness that came through. But how certain characters connected was never explained so there seems to be a few loose ends. The epilogue takes place six years later which was nice but the years in-between should have been addressed better.
This is Shae and Cal’s story and they take one step forward and so many more back. She’s best friends with his sister so she’s always been off-limits. He’s a single dad to two kids and his ex wife is definitely a piece of work. Shae has been dealing with a lot since college when something bad happened to her by someone she should have been able to trust. She’s kept her silence for eight years but things are starting to escalate and Cal wants to be there for her,
There are multiple stories being told including his run for mayor of their small town. He’s always hated politics but with Shae and those in their friends group by his side, he’s got this. There’s a nice flow to the story and I was engrossed throughout even with the fear and darkness that came through. But how certain characters connected was never explained so there seems to be a few loose ends. The epilogue takes place six years later which was nice but the years in-between should have been addressed better.
April 25, 2025
I have to preface this review by stating that I am a rom-com book fanatic. This book is not a rom-com at all so do not let the cover fool you. Also, very important heed the trigger warning.
In This Time Next Year the first book in this series it gave me just enough banter that I felt like I was getting a bit of a rom-com, and in the process of reading it Cal became my favorite character. This book was dark. I enjoyed the sun shining through and the bits of fun, but as a whole it took patience for me to get into this one.
The characters in this book were fun and in my opinion developed well, but I felt like there was a whole lot going on and felt a bit overwhelmed, but it shined when Cal and Shae are flirting and together with no drama ensuing. I also lover Cal's kids Rowe and Willow. I wish that perhaps the book would have given more of that dynamic or just a little bit more fun overall.
Hopeful that the third book in the series may be more fun and lighthearted. Overall, I enjoyed the book, but as previously stated heed the trigger warnings!
In This Time Next Year the first book in this series it gave me just enough banter that I felt like I was getting a bit of a rom-com, and in the process of reading it Cal became my favorite character. This book was dark. I enjoyed the sun shining through and the bits of fun, but as a whole it took patience for me to get into this one.
The characters in this book were fun and in my opinion developed well, but I felt like there was a whole lot going on and felt a bit overwhelmed, but it shined when Cal and Shae are flirting and together with no drama ensuing. I also lover Cal's kids Rowe and Willow. I wish that perhaps the book would have given more of that dynamic or just a little bit more fun overall.
Hopeful that the third book in the series may be more fun and lighthearted. Overall, I enjoyed the book, but as previously stated heed the trigger warnings!
May 16, 2025
I’m sorry to say I didn’t really enjoy this book. The author’s writing style was fine, but I thought there was just too much going on and too many characters thrown together. I was expecting more of a rom-com or simply a straight romance, but the book delved into several very dark themes. There was the best friend’s brother angle, a scheming ex trying to take custody of one character’s children, a run for mayor, a heroine dealing with the aftermath of sexual assault and the heroine being stalked and threatened by her attacker for years. Add in the large group of family and friends plus the townsfolk and it was just too much. And when the two main characters finally came together (after not much romance) everything got tied up a little too quickly and simply. I’m afraid I wouldn’t recommend this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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June 22, 2025This was a big remind of my best friend's brother in most stories but I kept thinking of the song instead which is funnier. For what Cal and Shae went through I can't really blame them for the fear of love. Poor Cal's ex wife was like the perfect evil witch whose only love is love before anything else which makes me feel bad for the kids. They deserve a better mom. I'm glad is a good father in their lives. Shae was so afraid of relationships because of the man that raped her and still stalked her wherever she was. That would of freaked me out as well. I'm glad Cal became part of her life and helped her through it. Shae was also a blessing because she helped him keep his ex wife away for good. And she became a great mom to both of his kids. If you like a story with drama, small town vibes, best friend's brother romance, and family love then this is the perfect story for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2025
Off-Limits is the second book in Jolie's Brunswick series, but it can be read as a standalone. Cal, a single dad of two kids, is used to taking care of everyone. Shae is his little sister's best friend, and thus off limits. however, they are both madly in love with each other; they just don't want to admit it to anyone, least of all themselves.
When I first started reading this book, I was expecting a clean cut rom com. I was surprised to find out that this book also contained some darker themes, including custody battle and trauma. In my opinion, this all made the book more enjoyable. I was barely able to put the book down. The final chapters could've even been more comprehensive.
This book is for you if you like:
📖 dual pov
📖 small town romance
📖 slow burn
📖 some spice
📖 best friend's brother
📖 found family
📖 evil supporting characters, abuse
🌶️
When I first started reading this book, I was expecting a clean cut rom com. I was surprised to find out that this book also contained some darker themes, including custody battle and trauma. In my opinion, this all made the book more enjoyable. I was barely able to put the book down. The final chapters could've even been more comprehensive.
This book is for you if you like:
📖 dual pov
📖 small town romance
📖 slow burn
📖 some spice
📖 best friend's brother
📖 found family
📖 evil supporting characters, abuse
🌶️
May 13, 2025
5/5*
I really liked this book, I read the first, full length book in this series as an ARC (This Time Next Year) and I really liked the story, but it was missing some things for me as far as the writing went. I can tell that Mariah grew as a writer just from that one to this one and that made me so happy! I do not regret reading This Time Next Year first and I would recommend reading it first before you read this one as the characters are the same in both, this just follows a different couple after the events of TTNY. I really loved reading about Cal and Shae and their mutual off-limits feelings towards each other. They are both such sweethearts and I was very happy with the ending. There was some lovely tension (always a fav) and snarky, but also some suspense and scandal. Cal is an amazing character and single dad to his kids Willow and Rowe (who are absolutely hilarious and lovable), so much so that the town decides he is exactly the type of person that they want to have as mayor of their town despite him despising politics. Shae convinces him to go for it and offers to help. There's always been something lurking under the surface with the two of them, but with such close quarters and late nights, they find that it gets increasingly harder to deny what they want. Shae is such a bad ass and so strong and funny, its definitely not hard to see why Cal cannot seem to resist her! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
I really liked this book, I read the first, full length book in this series as an ARC (This Time Next Year) and I really liked the story, but it was missing some things for me as far as the writing went. I can tell that Mariah grew as a writer just from that one to this one and that made me so happy! I do not regret reading This Time Next Year first and I would recommend reading it first before you read this one as the characters are the same in both, this just follows a different couple after the events of TTNY. I really loved reading about Cal and Shae and their mutual off-limits feelings towards each other. They are both such sweethearts and I was very happy with the ending. There was some lovely tension (always a fav) and snarky, but also some suspense and scandal. Cal is an amazing character and single dad to his kids Willow and Rowe (who are absolutely hilarious and lovable), so much so that the town decides he is exactly the type of person that they want to have as mayor of their town despite him despising politics. Shae convinces him to go for it and offers to help. There's always been something lurking under the surface with the two of them, but with such close quarters and late nights, they find that it gets increasingly harder to deny what they want. Shae is such a bad ass and so strong and funny, its definitely not hard to see why Cal cannot seem to resist her! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
September 10, 2025
Shea is totally perfect at faking happiness, but she's hiding a secret that she doesn't want people to know. Now helping Cal with his mayoral campaign is a perfect distraction. Although at the same time, she can't help sneaking glances at her teenage crush. Cal is a protector. Whether it's his children, friends, or small-town, he just can't help himself. But now he has his own battle to fight, but at the same time, he realises Shea is more than his little sisters best friend. This story will keep you on your toes with the twist and turns. Can Shea finally admit her feelings. Or is the past closer than she thinks. Is Cal trying to balance too much. This is the second in this series, although it can be read as a standalone. I loved the friendship circle they'll do anything to help each other.
August 23, 2025
This book is definitely not what I expected. What stood out most to me was the depth beyond the romance—it’s not just about attraction, but about healing, second chances, and creating a life worth holding onto. I absolutely loved the found family aspect and the warmth it brought to the pages.
I enjoyed reading about Cal’s love and devotion to his children, his patience, and just the kind of man he was made him such a memorable hero. And Shae’s strength was so inspiring; after everything she went through, her resilience and determination made me admire her and support her.
Thank you to BookSirens and Mariah Jolie for providing me with a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed reading about Cal’s love and devotion to his children, his patience, and just the kind of man he was made him such a memorable hero. And Shae’s strength was so inspiring; after everything she went through, her resilience and determination made me admire her and support her.
Thank you to BookSirens and Mariah Jolie for providing me with a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2025
I pre-ordered this book right after 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫. I was so excited for Cal's story that I even signed up as an ARC reader—I just couldn't wait.
Cal is the ultimate single dad, always putting everyone else first. But who looks out for him? His growing attraction to Shae—his little sister's best friend and longtime babysitter—becomes impossible to ignore. And for Shae, that feeling isn’t new. She’s been crushing on Cal since she was eleven.
Meanwhile, Cal's vindictive ex-wife is fighting for custody while he has been convinced to run for mayor. As Cal navigates the chaos, Shae stands by him, his biggest supporter on and off the campaign trail. But she has secrets of her own, ones that could change everything.
𝐎𝐟𝐟-𝐋𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐬 was more than I could have imagined. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐫𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 continues to deliver.
Cal is the ultimate single dad, always putting everyone else first. But who looks out for him? His growing attraction to Shae—his little sister's best friend and longtime babysitter—becomes impossible to ignore. And for Shae, that feeling isn’t new. She’s been crushing on Cal since she was eleven.
Meanwhile, Cal's vindictive ex-wife is fighting for custody while he has been convinced to run for mayor. As Cal navigates the chaos, Shae stands by him, his biggest supporter on and off the campaign trail. But she has secrets of her own, ones that could change everything.
𝐎𝐟𝐟-𝐋𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐬 was more than I could have imagined. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐫𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 continues to deliver.
April 25, 2025
This book is a page turner, and I couldn't wait to finish it. So much stuff happens, but it's not too much (I don't want you to think it is too busy). Cal and Shae ..... what a relationship and all the past situations they needed to overcome together.
Cal makes you want to swoon. Not only a damn good Dad, but he wants to help everyone all while protecting everyone he loves.
Shae definitely has a twisted past, and that brings lots of things to get through.
They are perfect for each other. Cannot wait for the next book!
Cal makes you want to swoon. Not only a damn good Dad, but he wants to help everyone all while protecting everyone he loves.
Shae definitely has a twisted past, and that brings lots of things to get through.
They are perfect for each other. Cannot wait for the next book!
June 29, 2025
There’s nothing like returning to the Brunswick world—and Off-Limits did not disappoint! Mariah Jolie delivers a sizzling and emotionally resonant romance that builds perfectly off the first installment. The characters are beautifully flawed, and their slow-burn chemistry kept me glued to the pages. I was lucky enough to read it early, and watching their journey unfold—from tension to tenderness—made it one of my favorite ARC experiences yet. A must-read for fans of intense emotion and steamy payoffs!
October 6, 2025
“Off-Limits” by Mariah Jolie
-A heartfelt, slow-burn romance filled with raw emotion and real characters. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Shae and Clay’s long friendship blossoms into something deeper, even as life tests them. Between custody battles, secrets, and small-town politics, their love feels both forbidden and fated.
Emotional, tender, and gripping—this story proves that sometimes love is worth breaking the rules for. I like the friendship group surrounding these two.
-A heartfelt, slow-burn romance filled with raw emotion and real characters. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Shae and Clay’s long friendship blossoms into something deeper, even as life tests them. Between custody battles, secrets, and small-town politics, their love feels both forbidden and fated.
Emotional, tender, and gripping—this story proves that sometimes love is worth breaking the rules for. I like the friendship group surrounding these two.
May 8, 2025
Alas, this is about as close anynof us will ever get, but WOW! It sure is a great one! The MC's are not only believable and relatable, but (GASP!!!) enjoyable, too! Real plot, perfectly balanced and flavored with a slow, intense simmer fulfilled with delicious spice that doesn't overwhelm the story. Will be purchasing a hard copy for the keeper shelf, for sure!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2025
I enjoyed the book very much. From custody battles to kidnappings, campaigns, and love, it held my attention from the first page. Shae had a traumatic experience eight years ago and is still living it while she copes with the crush she has had on Cal since she was eleven years old. Cal sees Shae as off-limits because she's his sister's best friend. It's very entertaining and worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2025
I was amazed by the Book 1 of The Brunswick Series and with no any doubts I pick the Book 2 for reading. Because I liked the Author's writing style so much.
And why not the small town's forbidden romance with so many actions going on there.
Single Dad and his little sister's best friend. Shae had crush on him since she was 11. With slow burn tension on the plate - just enjoy small town romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
And why not the small town's forbidden romance with so many actions going on there.
Single Dad and his little sister's best friend. Shae had crush on him since she was 11. With slow burn tension on the plate - just enjoy small town romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 24, 2025
This was my first book by this author and i am absolutely hooked!! I loved this book and couldn't put it down!! The characters are amazing and the storyline was so well written it flowed from beginning to the end!! I can't wait to read the next in the series, plus I am going back to read the first in the series!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 26, 2025
What an amazing book. This book gives you a glimpse of human nature on both ends of the spectrum and everything in between. Some people can be extremely good and other extremely bad, trying to take the good for themselves. Love how the two main characters took life by the horns and said this is my happiness and NO ONE is going to take it from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2025
Cal was moving forward with his mayor campaign and getting things moving. Shae is the off limits person but he sees her like no other. Their story to love had some bumps and some interesting things to figure out. I loved their story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 24, 2025
Clay and Shae have been around each other forever but always off-limits to each other. He can’t fall for his sisters best friend. They have a slow burn romance and you will enjoy the growing relationship. Was a random pick but so glad I got sucked into it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2025
O.M.G! I loved this book. There is so much happening, but it's beautifully written and not overwhelming. Cal and Shae are just too perfect together. Both have sooooo much going on in their separate lives, I was thinking they'd never make it! I absolutely hated both Adrian and Christina. Definitely recommend.
June 14, 2025
Overall I did enjoy the story - both the two main characters and the side characters, particularly the kids - character development and all - once we got to the climax it did feel a bit rushed to the end. I will be going back to read other books in the series to get more from the story.
I did receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I did receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2025
This is a cracking read. Love the sublime storyline and it’s delivered succinctly by Mariah Jole. Off limits steamy age gap that’s portrayed really well with great storytelling that’s mighty compelling. The characters are totally believable and it’s realistically written. Excellent read!
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