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Bumps in the Road #3
Storm in a Teacup
Ben Pyeon made the worst decision of his life: he confessed his feelings for his best friend, only to be turned down. Six months later, the sting of that moment still lingers, leaving him trapped in a cycle of isolation from his friends and family. Despite his efforts, he feels stuck and desperately needs someone to offer a solid push.
Linny Jenkins recently broke off an engagement, making the best decision of her life. Romance is permanently off her agenda as she learns to navigate the challenges of losing her sight to a neurodegenerative eye disease known as Retinitis Pigmentosa. She’s managing, but she and her ex-fiancé are now members of the same bridal party, and facing him alone feels daunting.
When Linny meets Ben, the charming co-owner of the café next door to her antique shop, he proposes a harmless they’ll pretend to be a couple. This simple weekend-long plan quickly escalates when Ben’s friends catch wind of their so-called relationship. Now, both realize they’ll have to continue this ruse a bit longer. Ben hopes to mend his damaged friendships and move forward, while Linny is grateful for the support throughout the wedding chaos. Yet, as the lines between them blur, they begin to wonder if this relationship is anything but fake.
Linny Jenkins recently broke off an engagement, making the best decision of her life. Romance is permanently off her agenda as she learns to navigate the challenges of losing her sight to a neurodegenerative eye disease known as Retinitis Pigmentosa. She’s managing, but she and her ex-fiancé are now members of the same bridal party, and facing him alone feels daunting.
When Linny meets Ben, the charming co-owner of the café next door to her antique shop, he proposes a harmless they’ll pretend to be a couple. This simple weekend-long plan quickly escalates when Ben’s friends catch wind of their so-called relationship. Now, both realize they’ll have to continue this ruse a bit longer. Ben hopes to mend his damaged friendships and move forward, while Linny is grateful for the support throughout the wedding chaos. Yet, as the lines between them blur, they begin to wonder if this relationship is anything but fake.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2025
13 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
About the author
Kat Paige
4 books37 followersKat Paige is a writer of romance books with humor, heart, and a touch of spice. Originally a native of St. Louis, MO, she now lives in New York with one roommate who is more like family and an abundance of personified succulents. When not writing, she’s probably reading, baking, going to Broadway musicals, or watching TV shows she will inevitably get too emotionally invested in.
You can find Kat on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok under @katpaigeauthor
You can find Kat on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok under @katpaigeauthor
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July 26, 2025Hi all, writing this the evening that ARCs went out. I hope you all enjoy this book as much as I enjoyed writing it. It’s my favorite one I’ve ever written so I hope you love the characters even a fraction as much as I do
August 2, 2025
Review based on an advanced reader copy.
Coming August 26, 2025
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Format: Ebook
A feel good romance that has some discussion of ableism, loss of vision, miscarriage, and depression.
Storm in a Teacup is a sweet fake dating romance. I quite enjoyed this one as it’s a little different from the usual novels that utilize this trope. The way Paige addresses sensitive topics while also keeping the novel light and fun makes it feel like, while these topics are important to the story and its characters, they aren’t the story’s only focus.
When it comes to Bennett Pyeon and Melinda Jenkins, they have such a sweet relationship. Despite having their own struggles, they do whatever they can for those they care for. While they definitely have their moments, their interactions are funny and definitely show the personalities of the pair.
If you’re up for a sweet, fake dating romance that addresses some deeper topics, I’d say give this one a try. That said, do keep in mind that the novel does include s*xual content in case those type of reads aren’t for you. While Storm in a Teacup is a standalone and it isn’t necessary to read the first two books, it’s also the last book in the Love in Edinburgh collection. As I started with the last book of the series, I’m excited to go back and read the first two novels.
Coming August 26, 2025
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Format: Ebook
A feel good romance that has some discussion of ableism, loss of vision, miscarriage, and depression.
Storm in a Teacup is a sweet fake dating romance. I quite enjoyed this one as it’s a little different from the usual novels that utilize this trope. The way Paige addresses sensitive topics while also keeping the novel light and fun makes it feel like, while these topics are important to the story and its characters, they aren’t the story’s only focus.
When it comes to Bennett Pyeon and Melinda Jenkins, they have such a sweet relationship. Despite having their own struggles, they do whatever they can for those they care for. While they definitely have their moments, their interactions are funny and definitely show the personalities of the pair.
If you’re up for a sweet, fake dating romance that addresses some deeper topics, I’d say give this one a try. That said, do keep in mind that the novel does include s*xual content in case those type of reads aren’t for you. While Storm in a Teacup is a standalone and it isn’t necessary to read the first two books, it’s also the last book in the Love in Edinburgh collection. As I started with the last book of the series, I’m excited to go back and read the first two novels.
August 11, 2025
Linny and Ben are so perfect together! I absolutely loved this story from the couple, to the plot, to their friendship turning into more journey. Ben the man you are!!! This man made her realize just how loved she can be by someone after her jerk of an ex Fiance and Linny brought Ben back around his family and friends after he stayed hidden since admitting feelings for a friend.
August 26, 2025
Ben is looking to sink into the ground after professing his love to his best friend and getting rejected but he meets Linny, a perfect stranger on a park bench who makes out with him to avoid her ex and then they go their separate ways. Reconnecting when he opens a new cafe with his sister next door to the shop she works in the pattern of fake dating continues to get both of them out of uncomfortable social situations but maybe all the faking isn’t so fake.
I loved the meet cute, hot and funny, but then it kinda slowed down a lot and I dragged a bit to get through it but it paid off in spades!! The character development was so organic and lovely. The realism is undeniable. I absolutely loved the coming out journey, the convo with parents was absolute perfection “We are not a group chat kind of family. Wtf are you doing?” Ha!!! Amazing!
Great spice and chuckle worthy situations throughout.
So many sensitive topics but so well done. You can really feel the pain and the deep desire for simple love and connection throughout all the complexities of life. Beautifully done. Need more books like this!
I loved the meet cute, hot and funny, but then it kinda slowed down a lot and I dragged a bit to get through it but it paid off in spades!! The character development was so organic and lovely. The realism is undeniable. I absolutely loved the coming out journey, the convo with parents was absolute perfection “We are not a group chat kind of family. Wtf are you doing?” Ha!!! Amazing!
Great spice and chuckle worthy situations throughout.
So many sensitive topics but so well done. You can really feel the pain and the deep desire for simple love and connection throughout all the complexities of life. Beautifully done. Need more books like this!
August 20, 2025
It took a bit to warm up to, it had all the makings of a book that I would DNF. But I was surprised to find that the story roped me in.
The shining star for me was the characters. The main characters are fully fleshed out. They’re not just baggage, want and goals. They have hobbies and quirks, personality and worries. I love that they have jobs that we see them both working at while also not being a workplace romance. The collection of characters as a whole is something you can see that they have more to their stories which makes for a great series of interconnected series.
The reasons I want to DNF was primarily for reasons of personal taste and had little to do with writing structure or plot.
Over all entertaining, funny, easy to read, explicit content ie. spice peppered (approx 6 chapters of the 27)
The shining star for me was the characters. The main characters are fully fleshed out. They’re not just baggage, want and goals. They have hobbies and quirks, personality and worries. I love that they have jobs that we see them both working at while also not being a workplace romance. The collection of characters as a whole is something you can see that they have more to their stories which makes for a great series of interconnected series.
The reasons I want to DNF was primarily for reasons of personal taste and had little to do with writing structure or plot.
Over all entertaining, funny, easy to read, explicit content ie. spice peppered (approx 6 chapters of the 27)
July 27, 2025
ADORABLE AND LOVEABLE!!!
I adore Linny for her strength through her journey of RP and also she is stubborn and I definitely find her relatable in the sense of wanting her independence and not wanting to burden those around her 💜💜
Ben is AMAZING 🤩 we love a good awakening and then on top of that their first meeting is CRAZY! I’m obsessed with them as a whole!!! I loved every minute of this and finished in less than 24 hours 🥹💜😆😋
I loved every minute!! We love a man who will adore every little part of the FMC 💜 and good lord I definitely had a few moments where I wanted to shake both of them!! 🤭🫠 but we ended up getting to what we will all want 💜💜
TROPES:
💜 fake dating
☕️ Visually Impaired FMC
💜 Bi MMC
☕️one bed
💜Black Cat x Golden Retriever
☕️Found Family
💜Mental Health Rep
☕️Scotland Setting
💜Dual POV
☕️Open-Door Spice
I adore Linny for her strength through her journey of RP and also she is stubborn and I definitely find her relatable in the sense of wanting her independence and not wanting to burden those around her 💜💜
Ben is AMAZING 🤩 we love a good awakening and then on top of that their first meeting is CRAZY! I’m obsessed with them as a whole!!! I loved every minute of this and finished in less than 24 hours 🥹💜😆😋
I loved every minute!! We love a man who will adore every little part of the FMC 💜 and good lord I definitely had a few moments where I wanted to shake both of them!! 🤭🫠 but we ended up getting to what we will all want 💜💜
TROPES:
💜 fake dating
☕️ Visually Impaired FMC
💜 Bi MMC
☕️one bed
💜Black Cat x Golden Retriever
☕️Found Family
💜Mental Health Rep
☕️Scotland Setting
💜Dual POV
☕️Open-Door Spice
August 27, 2025
Refreshing, sweet, and generally lovely.
August 23, 2025
(4.5⭐️)
Thank you to Kat Paige for the opportunity to read this as an e-ARC!
Aside from my bias for book series that involve the romantic stories of various characters, this was a truly fantastic book. Our main character, Linny, has RP and works at an antique shop with her Auntie Carolyn. 6 months after a chance encounter, a cafe opens next door, run by siblings Ben and Isla, the former who is a little too familiar to Linny. The pair navigate past romantic relationships and feelings together and decide to fake date to prove they have moved on.
Before reading, I had limited knowledge of RP but I am so much more aware of the downsides and raw emotions that come with it, as well as the power of a strong support system. The way Kat Paige has used her own experience is powerful and really helps the reader to connect with Linny on a deeper level.
Ben is our other main character, who runs the cafe with his sister. Ben is on a journey figuring out his sexuality and coming to terms with it, while navigating being let down by someone close. He is my bi-king who I will protect at all costs. Ben has internalized a lot of things but he learns to work through everything with the help of those he loves.
Overall, their journey is moving and it had me on the edge of my seat at times. I love these characters so much and I truly appreciate Kat Paige and her dedication to all of these characters💜
Thank you to Kat Paige for the opportunity to read this as an e-ARC!
Aside from my bias for book series that involve the romantic stories of various characters, this was a truly fantastic book. Our main character, Linny, has RP and works at an antique shop with her Auntie Carolyn. 6 months after a chance encounter, a cafe opens next door, run by siblings Ben and Isla, the former who is a little too familiar to Linny. The pair navigate past romantic relationships and feelings together and decide to fake date to prove they have moved on.
Before reading, I had limited knowledge of RP but I am so much more aware of the downsides and raw emotions that come with it, as well as the power of a strong support system. The way Kat Paige has used her own experience is powerful and really helps the reader to connect with Linny on a deeper level.
Ben is our other main character, who runs the cafe with his sister. Ben is on a journey figuring out his sexuality and coming to terms with it, while navigating being let down by someone close. He is my bi-king who I will protect at all costs. Ben has internalized a lot of things but he learns to work through everything with the help of those he loves.
Overall, their journey is moving and it had me on the edge of my seat at times. I love these characters so much and I truly appreciate Kat Paige and her dedication to all of these characters💜
November 6, 2025
Started it on my night shift and finished it after I woke up.
Extremely easily read, but I loved it. They’re so cute
Extremely easily read, but I loved it. They’re so cute
August 26, 2025
Sugar, spice & everything in between ~ 4✨
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
✧ PLOT ✧
Feeling down & dejected due to a failed engagement & a rejected declaration of love, Linny & Ben are spiralling.
She’s adamant that she’ll NEVER give her heart to someone again & he intends to avoid his best friend David for well, eternity! However 6 months in, his plan fails.
Seeing David for the first time in months, Ben wants to prove that he’s over him. So when David mistakenly assumes Ben & Linny are together, they go with it. A fake relationship would actually help her too. Linny can accompany Ben to basically anywhere David & his boyfriend are & Ben can be Linny’s plus one for all of her cousins wedding activities. Afterwards, they’ll fake a breakup & go their separate ways, right?
Wrong, very very wrong. It’s not long before rules are broken, lines are crossed & things start to feel very….. real?
✅ I’d recommend this book to people who enjoy -
• books/genre - romance, rom-com & spicy romance
• themes/tropes - fake dating, black cat x golden retriever, visually impaired FMC, found family, bi MMC, mental health rep, dual POV, Scottish setting & open door spice.
‼️Please keep in mind this book includes mentions of -
• explicit sexual content, miscarriage, mild medical descriptions, past emotional/verbal abuse by a romantic partner/ex & mild ableism relating to a visual impairment.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
✧ SUMMARY/OPINIONS ✧
[Storm in a Teacup is the 3rd book in the ‘Love in Edinburgh’ series but all 3 books can be read as standalones]
(Book 1 - Bumps in the Road / Book 2 - Down to a Science)
Set in Edinburgh, Storm in a Teacup is a sweet & spicy feel good romance. Filled with loveable characters (human & feline) the book follows MCs Linny & Ben, their complicated, chaotic ‘relationship’ & the lives of those closest to them.
The pacing of the book is spot on & despite being thrown in at the deep end the book still has alllll the tension & developing chemistry you know & love. Whilst sarcastic, spicy & humorous, Kat Paige takes us on an emotional journey too. The book covers some sensitive topics (see ‼️above) but they are approached with care & consideration. This emotional rollercoaster will have you laughing, crying & wishing you could reach in to the book to have a stern word with a certain ex fiancé…😒 If you’re a romance lover or someone who enjoys a feel-good, heartwarming story - this book is for you.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
✧ CHARACTERS ✧
• Linny Jenkins (FMC) is strong, resilient & definitely not afraid to speak her mind. Her eye disease Retinitis Pigmentosa means she’s slowly losing the ability to see but she doesn’t allow it to define her. Yes, she wears a coat of armour & keeps her heart guarded but that’s mainly due to her idiotic loser ex fiancé telling her she would be always be a burden. But beneath her tough exterior she just wants what we all do, to be loved & accepted for who we really are.
• Ben Pyeon (MMC) is kind, caring & selfless but cheeky, flirty & spicy too - talk about the best of both worlds! His protective nature when it came to Linny was everything - quietly helping her navigate unfamiliar surroundings & speaking up for her whenever her idiotic ex was around. I also loved the repeated mentions of his hand on her back or around her shoulders etc, a constant reminder that he was there for her & he had her back. Seriously, Ben has fast become one of my favourite book boyfriends.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
✧ FINAL THOUGHTS ✧
I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun, easy-going read. Not only were the characters likeable, they were real & relatable too. (maybe not Aunt Carolyn & her ghosty ways👻) One thing I didn’t like (purely personal preference) was the use of the ‘c word’. It just makes me uncomfortable no matter the context but aside from that the spicy scenes were wonderful 🥲 Kat Paige introduced & approached the deeper topics in a way that didn’t overwhelm the reader & the way in which she used her own experiences to help tell Linny’s story was admirable. I really appreciate her giving such a personal part of herself to this story, the significance of that act was definitely not lost on me.
I’m definitely going to read the previous 2 books as I’ve no doubt they’ll be just as amazing as this one!
📣 Thank you to Kat Paige for allowing me to read & review this ARC. This honest review consists solely of my own thoughts & I am leaving it voluntarily.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
✧ PLOT ✧
Feeling down & dejected due to a failed engagement & a rejected declaration of love, Linny & Ben are spiralling.
She’s adamant that she’ll NEVER give her heart to someone again & he intends to avoid his best friend David for well, eternity! However 6 months in, his plan fails.
Seeing David for the first time in months, Ben wants to prove that he’s over him. So when David mistakenly assumes Ben & Linny are together, they go with it. A fake relationship would actually help her too. Linny can accompany Ben to basically anywhere David & his boyfriend are & Ben can be Linny’s plus one for all of her cousins wedding activities. Afterwards, they’ll fake a breakup & go their separate ways, right?
Wrong, very very wrong. It’s not long before rules are broken, lines are crossed & things start to feel very….. real?
✅ I’d recommend this book to people who enjoy -
• books/genre - romance, rom-com & spicy romance
• themes/tropes - fake dating, black cat x golden retriever, visually impaired FMC, found family, bi MMC, mental health rep, dual POV, Scottish setting & open door spice.
‼️Please keep in mind this book includes mentions of -
• explicit sexual content, miscarriage, mild medical descriptions, past emotional/verbal abuse by a romantic partner/ex & mild ableism relating to a visual impairment.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
✧ SUMMARY/OPINIONS ✧
[Storm in a Teacup is the 3rd book in the ‘Love in Edinburgh’ series but all 3 books can be read as standalones]
(Book 1 - Bumps in the Road / Book 2 - Down to a Science)
Set in Edinburgh, Storm in a Teacup is a sweet & spicy feel good romance. Filled with loveable characters (human & feline) the book follows MCs Linny & Ben, their complicated, chaotic ‘relationship’ & the lives of those closest to them.
The pacing of the book is spot on & despite being thrown in at the deep end the book still has alllll the tension & developing chemistry you know & love. Whilst sarcastic, spicy & humorous, Kat Paige takes us on an emotional journey too. The book covers some sensitive topics (see ‼️above) but they are approached with care & consideration. This emotional rollercoaster will have you laughing, crying & wishing you could reach in to the book to have a stern word with a certain ex fiancé…😒 If you’re a romance lover or someone who enjoys a feel-good, heartwarming story - this book is for you.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
✧ CHARACTERS ✧
• Linny Jenkins (FMC) is strong, resilient & definitely not afraid to speak her mind. Her eye disease Retinitis Pigmentosa means she’s slowly losing the ability to see but she doesn’t allow it to define her. Yes, she wears a coat of armour & keeps her heart guarded but that’s mainly due to her idiotic loser ex fiancé telling her she would be always be a burden. But beneath her tough exterior she just wants what we all do, to be loved & accepted for who we really are.
• Ben Pyeon (MMC) is kind, caring & selfless but cheeky, flirty & spicy too - talk about the best of both worlds! His protective nature when it came to Linny was everything - quietly helping her navigate unfamiliar surroundings & speaking up for her whenever her idiotic ex was around. I also loved the repeated mentions of his hand on her back or around her shoulders etc, a constant reminder that he was there for her & he had her back. Seriously, Ben has fast become one of my favourite book boyfriends.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
✧ FINAL THOUGHTS ✧
I really enjoyed this book. It was a fun, easy-going read. Not only were the characters likeable, they were real & relatable too. (maybe not Aunt Carolyn & her ghosty ways👻) One thing I didn’t like (purely personal preference) was the use of the ‘c word’. It just makes me uncomfortable no matter the context but aside from that the spicy scenes were wonderful 🥲 Kat Paige introduced & approached the deeper topics in a way that didn’t overwhelm the reader & the way in which she used her own experiences to help tell Linny’s story was admirable. I really appreciate her giving such a personal part of herself to this story, the significance of that act was definitely not lost on me.
I’m definitely going to read the previous 2 books as I’ve no doubt they’ll be just as amazing as this one!
📣 Thank you to Kat Paige for allowing me to read & review this ARC. This honest review consists solely of my own thoughts & I am leaving it voluntarily.
August 13, 2025
🌟Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💧Drip-o-Meter: 💦💦💦
💗Something I Loved: This is how I like my fake dating. It’s not the “he’s in love with her (or vice versa) and agrees to fake date to convince her to love him back” schtick, but instead starts as nothing but a beneficial partnership for them both. Sure there’s an instant attraction, and yes they eventually become more, but the fake dating itself was just that. Fake. And for a legitimate purpose. Linny needs support during her cousins wedding festivities (at which her ex-fiance is a groomsman) and Ben needs to convince his best friend he’s moved on and is no longer in love with him. We all know where it ends up but I really loved how genuine the progression of their relationship felt, gradually morphing from fake dating to true friendship to lovers.
🫤Something I Would Have Changed: Nothing comes to mind. I enjoyed the hell out of it.
🥰Favorite Moment: Honestly, it might be chapter 1…. Ben and Linny have THE best meet cute. But also:
🍩 Donut Daddy
🌈 Ben’s coming out(s)
☕️ The makeshift rage room
🍆 Linny’s drunken wedding dick talk
👃🏼 The “Pheromone King”
💞 The love confession
🐈⬛ Oscar Wilde (Linny’s three legged cat)
🌶️Spiciest Scene: The tension really started amping up a little shy of 50% but the spiciest scene was probably ch. 16. They smash some shit and then smash each other and all of it was utterly delectable.
📚Standalone vs. Series: An interconnected standalone (book 3) in the Love in Edinburgh series. SIAT is the final book in the series 😭 and while it can definitely be read as a standalone, the way Kat weaves the three stories together was nothing short of spectacular.
📖Would I Recommend: Ah, the end of an era. Well, the end of a series at least. Yes, I’d absolutely recommend. I loved all three books but SIAT is now my favorite. The vibes hit perfectly for me and I thought it was the funniest (and spiciest) of the three books. It also had great rep (bisexual MMC, therapy) and I especially loved that the FMC has the same neurodegenerative eye disease the author does (Retinitis Pigmentosa). I can only imagine how vulnerable that was to write but Kat did so beautifully, educating the reader about life with RP without making it Linny’s entire identity or letting it limit her in any way. The characters were charming and so damn lovable, the story itself funny but full of depth, and although I’m sad the series is over, it was the perfect ending for everyone. Thank you Kat for letting me read this ARC (as well as the previous two). It’s been an honor to be a small part of this universe.
💬Tropes: Fake Dating, Black Cat x Golden Retriever, Visually Impaired FMC, Bisexual MMC, Found Family, Only One Bed, Scotland Setting
💧Drip-o-Meter: 💦💦💦
💗Something I Loved: This is how I like my fake dating. It’s not the “he’s in love with her (or vice versa) and agrees to fake date to convince her to love him back” schtick, but instead starts as nothing but a beneficial partnership for them both. Sure there’s an instant attraction, and yes they eventually become more, but the fake dating itself was just that. Fake. And for a legitimate purpose. Linny needs support during her cousins wedding festivities (at which her ex-fiance is a groomsman) and Ben needs to convince his best friend he’s moved on and is no longer in love with him. We all know where it ends up but I really loved how genuine the progression of their relationship felt, gradually morphing from fake dating to true friendship to lovers.
🫤Something I Would Have Changed: Nothing comes to mind. I enjoyed the hell out of it.
🥰Favorite Moment: Honestly, it might be chapter 1…. Ben and Linny have THE best meet cute. But also:
🍩 Donut Daddy
🌈 Ben’s coming out(s)
☕️ The makeshift rage room
🍆 Linny’s drunken wedding dick talk
👃🏼 The “Pheromone King”
💞 The love confession
🐈⬛ Oscar Wilde (Linny’s three legged cat)
🌶️Spiciest Scene: The tension really started amping up a little shy of 50% but the spiciest scene was probably ch. 16. They smash some shit and then smash each other and all of it was utterly delectable.
📚Standalone vs. Series: An interconnected standalone (book 3) in the Love in Edinburgh series. SIAT is the final book in the series 😭 and while it can definitely be read as a standalone, the way Kat weaves the three stories together was nothing short of spectacular.
📖Would I Recommend: Ah, the end of an era. Well, the end of a series at least. Yes, I’d absolutely recommend. I loved all three books but SIAT is now my favorite. The vibes hit perfectly for me and I thought it was the funniest (and spiciest) of the three books. It also had great rep (bisexual MMC, therapy) and I especially loved that the FMC has the same neurodegenerative eye disease the author does (Retinitis Pigmentosa). I can only imagine how vulnerable that was to write but Kat did so beautifully, educating the reader about life with RP without making it Linny’s entire identity or letting it limit her in any way. The characters were charming and so damn lovable, the story itself funny but full of depth, and although I’m sad the series is over, it was the perfect ending for everyone. Thank you Kat for letting me read this ARC (as well as the previous two). It’s been an honor to be a small part of this universe.
💬Tropes: Fake Dating, Black Cat x Golden Retriever, Visually Impaired FMC, Bisexual MMC, Found Family, Only One Bed, Scotland Setting
August 27, 2025
When I read a book in a series that is already established, one thing I like to start by clarifying is whether or not the book in question can be read as a standalone. In the case of Storm in a Teacup, it is entirely possible. I haven’t read the first two books in the Love in Edinburgh series—yet—but I read their blurbs beforehand, which gave me a good idea of who was who.
Now that's settled, I can tell you how much I loved this book. It’s bittersweet, but not in a negative way. I don’t really know how to explain it. Storm in a Teacup achieves the perfect balance between the sweetness of the characters and the bitterness that life can bring whether in fiction or reality.
Let’s be honest: Linny and Ben face their share of personal hardships in this book. However, when they’re together, they form an unbreakable force capable of overcoming any adversity.
Linny is an FMC that I really liked. In addition to the strength she showed in getting out of a toxic relationship, she also gave me the opportunity to learn more about retinitis pigmentosa, or RP for short. I had heard of this eye disease before but had never taken the time to learn more about it. Since the author has this disease herself, Linny’s emotions in the face of her impending blindness felt even more intense to me. Despite her condition, Linny is an independent, stubborn woman capable of succeeding at everything she undertakes. Honestly, having a friend like Linny must be wonderful. One thing’s for sure: I wouldn’t want her as an enemy 😆
Now, let’s move on to Ben. I loved this extremely touching MMC. After discovering his bisexuality later in life, he finally confesses his feelings for his best friend, David. The problem is that David is already in a relationship, and despite the deep love he feels for Ben, his feelings are platonic, not romantic. As you might expect, Ben’s heart—and ours—is shattered. That’s when he has a fleeting but memorable encounter with Linny on a bench. Although they don’t cross paths again for several months, fate works in mysterious ways when Ben’s café, which he opened with his sister, turns out to be next door to the antique shop where Linny works with her aunt.
I’d love to say more about this book, but I don’t want to spoil the story. I’ll conclude my review by saying that Ben is perfect for Linny, and Linny is perfect for Ben. In addition, Storm in a Teacup has a lot of humor in it, which I really enjoyed.
I highly recommend this book and will add the first two novels in the series to my TBR pile. However, I advise you to read the author’s note first, as your mental health is always more important than anything else.
Many thanks to Kat Paige for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of Storm in a Teacup. This review is my own. All opinions expressed are mine.
Now that's settled, I can tell you how much I loved this book. It’s bittersweet, but not in a negative way. I don’t really know how to explain it. Storm in a Teacup achieves the perfect balance between the sweetness of the characters and the bitterness that life can bring whether in fiction or reality.
Let’s be honest: Linny and Ben face their share of personal hardships in this book. However, when they’re together, they form an unbreakable force capable of overcoming any adversity.
Linny is an FMC that I really liked. In addition to the strength she showed in getting out of a toxic relationship, she also gave me the opportunity to learn more about retinitis pigmentosa, or RP for short. I had heard of this eye disease before but had never taken the time to learn more about it. Since the author has this disease herself, Linny’s emotions in the face of her impending blindness felt even more intense to me. Despite her condition, Linny is an independent, stubborn woman capable of succeeding at everything she undertakes. Honestly, having a friend like Linny must be wonderful. One thing’s for sure: I wouldn’t want her as an enemy 😆
Now, let’s move on to Ben. I loved this extremely touching MMC. After discovering his bisexuality later in life, he finally confesses his feelings for his best friend, David. The problem is that David is already in a relationship, and despite the deep love he feels for Ben, his feelings are platonic, not romantic. As you might expect, Ben’s heart—and ours—is shattered. That’s when he has a fleeting but memorable encounter with Linny on a bench. Although they don’t cross paths again for several months, fate works in mysterious ways when Ben’s café, which he opened with his sister, turns out to be next door to the antique shop where Linny works with her aunt.
I’d love to say more about this book, but I don’t want to spoil the story. I’ll conclude my review by saying that Ben is perfect for Linny, and Linny is perfect for Ben. In addition, Storm in a Teacup has a lot of humor in it, which I really enjoyed.
I highly recommend this book and will add the first two novels in the series to my TBR pile. However, I advise you to read the author’s note first, as your mental health is always more important than anything else.
Many thanks to Kat Paige for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of Storm in a Teacup. This review is my own. All opinions expressed are mine.
August 23, 2025
Summary:
Ben Pyeon is still nursing a broken heart after confessing his love to his best friend and being turned down. Linny Jenkins has sworn off romance after a brutal breakup and the daily challenges of living with Retinitis Pigmentosa. When they suggest faking a relationship to get through the wedding chaos, what starts as make-believe soon looks dangerously like the real thing.
Review:
So this is book three in the Love in Edinburgh series, but it totally works as a standalone (that said… I’ll be running off to grab books one and two very soon).
The recipe here is spot-on: Ben, Linny, and Oscar Wilde, the three-legged cat. Honestly, that lineup alone deserves five stars. Fake dating can easily tip into cliché, but here it worked beautifully because both had something real to gain. Watching them test those boundaries... friends, lovers, something in between, was addictive.
Ben. My god. Can we just mandate that all boyfriends need to be good bakers, bring you coffee in the morning, and then hype you up like it’s their full-time job? He’s calm, patient, a little spicy when it counts, and absolutely the definition of a green flag.
Then there’s Linny. I loved how Kat Paige gave us a heroine with vulnerability and strength side by side. Showing Linny living with Retinitis Pigmentosa was powerful... we see the struggles, yes, but also the strength in owning it. Her walls (thanks to her ex, who is capital letters AWFUL) made sense, but it was so satisfying to watch them crumble, piece by piece, as she let Ben in.
And oh, the spice. From the second that bench scene unfolded, I should have braced myself… but wow. Let’s just say I was blushing, slightly envious, and occasionally wishing I were Linny. Importantly, though, Ben respects her boundaries at every step... and once she’s ready, he doesn’t just love her, he worships her.
Add in drunk Linny shouting “dick” way too many times (I cackled), the DIY rage room on the terrace (we all need one of those), and the heartwarming way Ben’s coming out was received… this book had everything.
I loved it. If you like love, spice, and a sprinkling of humour, Storm in a Teacup is your next read.
_________________________________________________________
Thank you Kat Paige for providing this ARC of Storm in a Teacup in exchange for an honest review.
Ben Pyeon is still nursing a broken heart after confessing his love to his best friend and being turned down. Linny Jenkins has sworn off romance after a brutal breakup and the daily challenges of living with Retinitis Pigmentosa. When they suggest faking a relationship to get through the wedding chaos, what starts as make-believe soon looks dangerously like the real thing.
Review:
So this is book three in the Love in Edinburgh series, but it totally works as a standalone (that said… I’ll be running off to grab books one and two very soon).
The recipe here is spot-on: Ben, Linny, and Oscar Wilde, the three-legged cat. Honestly, that lineup alone deserves five stars. Fake dating can easily tip into cliché, but here it worked beautifully because both had something real to gain. Watching them test those boundaries... friends, lovers, something in between, was addictive.
Ben. My god. Can we just mandate that all boyfriends need to be good bakers, bring you coffee in the morning, and then hype you up like it’s their full-time job? He’s calm, patient, a little spicy when it counts, and absolutely the definition of a green flag.
Then there’s Linny. I loved how Kat Paige gave us a heroine with vulnerability and strength side by side. Showing Linny living with Retinitis Pigmentosa was powerful... we see the struggles, yes, but also the strength in owning it. Her walls (thanks to her ex, who is capital letters AWFUL) made sense, but it was so satisfying to watch them crumble, piece by piece, as she let Ben in.
And oh, the spice. From the second that bench scene unfolded, I should have braced myself… but wow. Let’s just say I was blushing, slightly envious, and occasionally wishing I were Linny. Importantly, though, Ben respects her boundaries at every step... and once she’s ready, he doesn’t just love her, he worships her.
Add in drunk Linny shouting “dick” way too many times (I cackled), the DIY rage room on the terrace (we all need one of those), and the heartwarming way Ben’s coming out was received… this book had everything.
I loved it. If you like love, spice, and a sprinkling of humour, Storm in a Teacup is your next read.
_________________________________________________________
Thank you Kat Paige for providing this ARC of Storm in a Teacup in exchange for an honest review.
August 27, 2025
📚✨ ARC REVIEW ✨📚
Storm in a Teacup by Kat Paige
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (4.5/5 stars)
Thank you to Kat Paige for providing a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Linny and Ben were strangers when Linny, in a panic while spying on her ex-fiancé, begged him to kiss her. Ben—still nursing a broken heart after confessing unrequited love to his BFF—was desperate enough to go along with her wild plan. One very heated kiss later, they exchanged names and walked away.
Six months later, fate brings them back together as neighbors and business owners. Ben (and his sister) are opening a coffee shop filled with his drool-worthy pastries, while Linny works alongside her aunt in an antique store. When Ben’s BFF assumes Linny is his girlfriend, Ben doesn’t correct him—and instead asks her to be his fake girlfriend. Conveniently, Linny needs a date for her cousin’s wedding, where she’ll be face-to-face with her ex.
Their deal is supposed to end after the wedding, but fake dating turns into a genuine friendship, and that friendship begins to look a lot like love. The only problem? Linny is losing her sight to retinitis pigmentosa, and she’s convinced it means she’ll eventually be a burden to anyone she marries. Ben is determined to prove that loving her is never, ever a burden.
The best word I can use to describe this book is cozy. Maybe it’s the Scottish setting, the smell of fresh-baked goods, or the dusty treasures of Linny’s antique shop—but reading Storm in a Teacup felt like being wrapped in a warm hug.
That said, this story isn’t all soft edges. Linny’s RP is handled with care and authenticity, showing her independence and strength. As someone with a family member who also has RP, I appreciated that it wasn’t framed as something that would “ruin” her life, but as a part of her journey.
A heartfelt, hopeful romance with depth, warmth, and just the right amount of angst.
For fans of: 💋 Fake dating | 🥐 Baker MMC | 🕰️ Antique shop owner | 👩🦯 Disability rep | 💖💜💙 Bisexual rep | 🐈⬛🐕 Black cat x golden retriever | 🏴 Scottish setting
#ARCReview #StormInATeacup #KatPaige #RomanceBooks #Bookstagram #DisabilityRep #CozyRomance #FakeDatingTrope #BisexualityRep
Storm in a Teacup by Kat Paige
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (4.5/5 stars)
Thank you to Kat Paige for providing a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Linny and Ben were strangers when Linny, in a panic while spying on her ex-fiancé, begged him to kiss her. Ben—still nursing a broken heart after confessing unrequited love to his BFF—was desperate enough to go along with her wild plan. One very heated kiss later, they exchanged names and walked away.
Six months later, fate brings them back together as neighbors and business owners. Ben (and his sister) are opening a coffee shop filled with his drool-worthy pastries, while Linny works alongside her aunt in an antique store. When Ben’s BFF assumes Linny is his girlfriend, Ben doesn’t correct him—and instead asks her to be his fake girlfriend. Conveniently, Linny needs a date for her cousin’s wedding, where she’ll be face-to-face with her ex.
Their deal is supposed to end after the wedding, but fake dating turns into a genuine friendship, and that friendship begins to look a lot like love. The only problem? Linny is losing her sight to retinitis pigmentosa, and she’s convinced it means she’ll eventually be a burden to anyone she marries. Ben is determined to prove that loving her is never, ever a burden.
The best word I can use to describe this book is cozy. Maybe it’s the Scottish setting, the smell of fresh-baked goods, or the dusty treasures of Linny’s antique shop—but reading Storm in a Teacup felt like being wrapped in a warm hug.
That said, this story isn’t all soft edges. Linny’s RP is handled with care and authenticity, showing her independence and strength. As someone with a family member who also has RP, I appreciated that it wasn’t framed as something that would “ruin” her life, but as a part of her journey.
A heartfelt, hopeful romance with depth, warmth, and just the right amount of angst.
For fans of: 💋 Fake dating | 🥐 Baker MMC | 🕰️ Antique shop owner | 👩🦯 Disability rep | 💖💜💙 Bisexual rep | 🐈⬛🐕 Black cat x golden retriever | 🏴 Scottish setting
#ARCReview #StormInATeacup #KatPaige #RomanceBooks #Bookstagram #DisabilityRep #CozyRomance #FakeDatingTrope #BisexualityRep
August 8, 2025
Thank you to the author for the free e-ARC! This is my honest review!
Storm in a Teacup is the third book in the Love in Edinburgh series. This book follows Ben's lovestory and can be read as a stand-alone but most enjoyable after the first two in the series.
When we first meet Ben in the first book of the series it's just a quick glance. In the second book of the series, we get to see his quirky side but discover he has hit some rough patches and wonder what his story is. I was very happy to learn we got to finally follow him in this third installment and see a closer hand at what happened to him throughout the timeline of the second book.
Ben is coming to terms that he is not only bisexual, but his best friend does not love him in the way he loves his best friend. While stewing in his feelings on a bench, here enters Linny...who is also getting over her ex-fiance. Fast forward to Ben wanting to prove he's "over" his best friend and Linny wanting to prove to her ex-fiance she's lovable...these two enter a "fake dating" deal.
This story has become my favorite of the three couples! I loved reading about a character that has Retinitis Pigmentosa, as I feel I have found very few books with characters that have visual impairments. I think this book does a phenomenal job of showing the fear of losing vision and the want of being independent but the care of showing you don't have to fight alone.
If you are looking for a charming and funny MMC that falls for his grumpy, adorable FMC (with RP Rep <3 ) after entering a fake-dating situationship, this book is absolutely for you!
Storm in a Teacup is the third book in the Love in Edinburgh series. This book follows Ben's lovestory and can be read as a stand-alone but most enjoyable after the first two in the series.
When we first meet Ben in the first book of the series it's just a quick glance. In the second book of the series, we get to see his quirky side but discover he has hit some rough patches and wonder what his story is. I was very happy to learn we got to finally follow him in this third installment and see a closer hand at what happened to him throughout the timeline of the second book.
Ben is coming to terms that he is not only bisexual, but his best friend does not love him in the way he loves his best friend. While stewing in his feelings on a bench, here enters Linny...who is also getting over her ex-fiance. Fast forward to Ben wanting to prove he's "over" his best friend and Linny wanting to prove to her ex-fiance she's lovable...these two enter a "fake dating" deal.
This story has become my favorite of the three couples! I loved reading about a character that has Retinitis Pigmentosa, as I feel I have found very few books with characters that have visual impairments. I think this book does a phenomenal job of showing the fear of losing vision and the want of being independent but the care of showing you don't have to fight alone.
If you are looking for a charming and funny MMC that falls for his grumpy, adorable FMC (with RP Rep <3 ) after entering a fake-dating situationship, this book is absolutely for you!
August 9, 2025
Huge thank you to Kat for providing me with an eARC of Storm in a Teacup! As always, my opinions are my own. ☺️
4 ⭐️ 1.5 🌶️
“You just saying my name Sugar, or is there something you need?”
Ben, the cafe owner next door, who trying to mend his broken heart after confessing his feelings to his best friend and being rejected.
Linny, runs the antique shop and lives in the flat above the store, who’s recovering from her broken off engagement and swears off dating to protect herself.
After having an interesting meet cute on a bench, Ben and Linny don’t see each other again for sometime, until the fateful day Ben walks into Linny’s shop to invite her and her Aunty to the soft opening of his cafe next door. Fast forward and these two have something to prove; that Ben is over is best friend and that Linny is worthy is being loved. So they agree to fake date and accompany each other ther to outings with Ben’s friends and Linny’s cousins wedding.. where he ex-fiancé is part of the wedding party. Can these two keep it up as the lines blur and they begin to question their feelings for one another?
Oh this book was so stinkin’ cute!! This is my first time reading a book by Kat and I have no read either of the first two books in the series but I adored Storm in a Teacup. The banter was cute and sassy, and had me laughing alongside Ben and Linny. Getting to read about both of their journeys of healing and self discovery was delightful and watching them fight their feelings for each other was both frustrating and heartwarming! I’m definitely going to have to read the rest of the books in the series now 😍
4 ⭐️ 1.5 🌶️
“You just saying my name Sugar, or is there something you need?”
Ben, the cafe owner next door, who trying to mend his broken heart after confessing his feelings to his best friend and being rejected.
Linny, runs the antique shop and lives in the flat above the store, who’s recovering from her broken off engagement and swears off dating to protect herself.
After having an interesting meet cute on a bench, Ben and Linny don’t see each other again for sometime, until the fateful day Ben walks into Linny’s shop to invite her and her Aunty to the soft opening of his cafe next door. Fast forward and these two have something to prove; that Ben is over is best friend and that Linny is worthy is being loved. So they agree to fake date and accompany each other ther to outings with Ben’s friends and Linny’s cousins wedding.. where he ex-fiancé is part of the wedding party. Can these two keep it up as the lines blur and they begin to question their feelings for one another?
Oh this book was so stinkin’ cute!! This is my first time reading a book by Kat and I have no read either of the first two books in the series but I adored Storm in a Teacup. The banter was cute and sassy, and had me laughing alongside Ben and Linny. Getting to read about both of their journeys of healing and self discovery was delightful and watching them fight their feelings for each other was both frustrating and heartwarming! I’m definitely going to have to read the rest of the books in the series now 😍
August 31, 2025
Reviewed by Emma on behalf of The Plot Thickens Book Club
Title- Storm in a Teacup
Author- Kat Paige
Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a great rom-com feel novel that had me laughing out loud! The main characters, Ben and Linny, have SO much chemistry and are a really likeable couple that you are really rooting for the whole way through.
The two meet when they are both feeling down on themselves and fed up with love- Ben because he has just confessed his love for his best friend, David, and it is unrequited, and Linny, because she has just split up with her arsehole boyfriend, Atti.
They become good friends and hatch a plan to save face in front of David and Atti- they will pretend to be dating and prove that they are worthy of being loved! Queue lots of laughs, majorly cute friendship moments and surprise spice that catches them both off guard!
Aswell as having all the usual components of a great romcom, I loved the added element of Linny having retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease which means she is slowly losing her sight. As Kat Paige herself suffers from this condition, it gave a real insight into the frustrations and struggles of someone who knows they will eventually go blind, including the heartbreaking debate that Linny has with herself over whether she should stay single so that she isn’t a ‘burden’ to her partner in the future and whether she should have children, knowing that they could have the same disease.
I fell in love with Ben, Linny and their friends and was really happy to find that there are other novels in the series- I can’t wait to read them!
Title- Storm in a Teacup
Author- Kat Paige
Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a great rom-com feel novel that had me laughing out loud! The main characters, Ben and Linny, have SO much chemistry and are a really likeable couple that you are really rooting for the whole way through.
The two meet when they are both feeling down on themselves and fed up with love- Ben because he has just confessed his love for his best friend, David, and it is unrequited, and Linny, because she has just split up with her arsehole boyfriend, Atti.
They become good friends and hatch a plan to save face in front of David and Atti- they will pretend to be dating and prove that they are worthy of being loved! Queue lots of laughs, majorly cute friendship moments and surprise spice that catches them both off guard!
Aswell as having all the usual components of a great romcom, I loved the added element of Linny having retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease which means she is slowly losing her sight. As Kat Paige herself suffers from this condition, it gave a real insight into the frustrations and struggles of someone who knows they will eventually go blind, including the heartbreaking debate that Linny has with herself over whether she should stay single so that she isn’t a ‘burden’ to her partner in the future and whether she should have children, knowing that they could have the same disease.
I fell in love with Ben, Linny and their friends and was really happy to find that there are other novels in the series- I can’t wait to read them!
August 30, 2025
Storm in a Teacup is the third book in Paige's Love in Edinburgh series, where each book is interconnected but can be appreciated on its own. This black cat X golden retriever, fake dating, contemporary romance features Melinda (Linny) Jenkins and Bennett (Ben) Pyeon.
Linny recently broke off her engagement. While she doesn't regret it in the least, she is not keen to see him again. Unfortunately, both are part of the same wedding party for Linny's cousin, Melanie.
Ben recently confessed his feelings to his best friend, David only to have his friend confirm that he doesn't feel the same way. David has tried to reach out to Ben multiple times but, feeling terribly awkward and uncomfortable, he has kept his distance. Ben continues to isolate himself and doesn't share what happened with others.
Ben and Linny meet on a park bench where Ben is suffering from a broken heart at not having his feelings reciprocated, and Linny is spying on her ex is disbelief at his apparent happiness following their breakup. The two share a moment and part as strangers, never expecting to meet again.
As luck would have it, Ben and his sister, Isla, open a cafe next door to the antique shopped where Linny works. The two come to a fake dating arrangement which will benefit them both. Ben will accompany Linny to the joint bachelor/bachelorette party while Linny will pose as Ben's new girlfriend when his group of friends get together and David is sure to be there. While this was supposed to be a short term arrangement, Linny and Ben find they like spending time together. Ben's feelings for David start to wane, and while Linny is adamant about not entering into another relationship, Ben makes her feel safe and comfortable, without feeling pity for her due to her neurodegenerative eye disease (Retinitis Pigmentosa).
I really enjoyed this book! I found the characters to be relatable and it was easy to feel for their individual situations. I thought the main characters were compelling and loved their dynamic. I also enjoyed the secondary characters and their relationships.
While this may have been the first book I've read by Paige, I'm keen to explore her other works. I enjoyed both the book and her writing style and would definitely recommend checking this one out.
Linny recently broke off her engagement. While she doesn't regret it in the least, she is not keen to see him again. Unfortunately, both are part of the same wedding party for Linny's cousin, Melanie.
Ben recently confessed his feelings to his best friend, David only to have his friend confirm that he doesn't feel the same way. David has tried to reach out to Ben multiple times but, feeling terribly awkward and uncomfortable, he has kept his distance. Ben continues to isolate himself and doesn't share what happened with others.
Ben and Linny meet on a park bench where Ben is suffering from a broken heart at not having his feelings reciprocated, and Linny is spying on her ex is disbelief at his apparent happiness following their breakup. The two share a moment and part as strangers, never expecting to meet again.
As luck would have it, Ben and his sister, Isla, open a cafe next door to the antique shopped where Linny works. The two come to a fake dating arrangement which will benefit them both. Ben will accompany Linny to the joint bachelor/bachelorette party while Linny will pose as Ben's new girlfriend when his group of friends get together and David is sure to be there. While this was supposed to be a short term arrangement, Linny and Ben find they like spending time together. Ben's feelings for David start to wane, and while Linny is adamant about not entering into another relationship, Ben makes her feel safe and comfortable, without feeling pity for her due to her neurodegenerative eye disease (Retinitis Pigmentosa).
I really enjoyed this book! I found the characters to be relatable and it was easy to feel for their individual situations. I thought the main characters were compelling and loved their dynamic. I also enjoyed the secondary characters and their relationships.
While this may have been the first book I've read by Paige, I'm keen to explore her other works. I enjoyed both the book and her writing style and would definitely recommend checking this one out.
August 21, 2025
Big, big thank you to Kat for this amazing eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Storm In A Teacup is the third and final book in the Love in Edinburgh series, and boy did we end on a high note!!! These characters are so, so loveable, yet realistic and believable - Linny is determined to hold on to her independence as she is slowly losing her eyesight, while Ben is trying to mend his broken heart 💔 Just a classic black-cat/golden-retriever duo that matches each others chaos perfectly! Some of the side characters are from the previous books in the series (although this is a standalone, I highly recommend you go read those ones first), and we are also introduced to some new faces - my favourite being Oscar Wilde, the three-legged cat 🐈⬛
I love the banter, I love the respect between the two main characters, I love that you get glimpses of their work lives in addition to their social lives… overall, I absolutely love anything that Kat Paige writes! There’s just something in her writing and storytelling that makes me feel like I’m being wrapped in a warm, cozy hug 🥰
Some of my favourite moments:
Storm In A Teacup is the third and final book in the Love in Edinburgh series, and boy did we end on a high note!!! These characters are so, so loveable, yet realistic and believable - Linny is determined to hold on to her independence as she is slowly losing her eyesight, while Ben is trying to mend his broken heart 💔 Just a classic black-cat/golden-retriever duo that matches each others chaos perfectly! Some of the side characters are from the previous books in the series (although this is a standalone, I highly recommend you go read those ones first), and we are also introduced to some new faces - my favourite being Oscar Wilde, the three-legged cat 🐈⬛
I love the banter, I love the respect between the two main characters, I love that you get glimpses of their work lives in addition to their social lives… overall, I absolutely love anything that Kat Paige writes! There’s just something in her writing and storytelling that makes me feel like I’m being wrapped in a warm, cozy hug 🥰
Some of my favourite moments:
August 8, 2025
Thank you to the author for this amazing ARC in exchange for my honest review.
First, I must say I love Linny’s strength in her battle of RP & her stubbornness. As a chronically ill person I can relate to her wanting her own independence and not relying on those around her.
Then enters Ben, a bI sweetheart with a sexy Scottish accent who loves Spice Girls! I have to say just the first page alone when they first meet each other is funny and shocking and it’s definitely a rememberable meeting that will reel you in lol.
Linny is an antique store owner & Ben is a cafe owner next door. They decide to enter a fake relationship after both having recently experienced heartbreak. Their fake dating scheme is a bumpy road. Linny thinks she’s unlovable & wants to stay single. Her atrocious ex Atticus really did a number on her and still tries to make it even worse.
Ben is crazy about her and is determined to have her see herself through his eyes. This story is so romantic and spicy. There is also a three legged kitty named Oscar Wilde!! How cute!!
I loved everything! I love a man who will love every little part you, even the dark parts.
⚠️Mention of miscarriage⚠️
TROPES:
fake dating
Visually Impaired FMC
Bi MMC
one bed
Found Family
Mental Health Rep
Scotland Setting
Dual POV
Open-Door Spice
Grumpy-FMC
Sunshine-MMC
First, I must say I love Linny’s strength in her battle of RP & her stubbornness. As a chronically ill person I can relate to her wanting her own independence and not relying on those around her.
Then enters Ben, a bI sweetheart with a sexy Scottish accent who loves Spice Girls! I have to say just the first page alone when they first meet each other is funny and shocking and it’s definitely a rememberable meeting that will reel you in lol.
Linny is an antique store owner & Ben is a cafe owner next door. They decide to enter a fake relationship after both having recently experienced heartbreak. Their fake dating scheme is a bumpy road. Linny thinks she’s unlovable & wants to stay single. Her atrocious ex Atticus really did a number on her and still tries to make it even worse.
Ben is crazy about her and is determined to have her see herself through his eyes. This story is so romantic and spicy. There is also a three legged kitty named Oscar Wilde!! How cute!!
I loved everything! I love a man who will love every little part you, even the dark parts.
⚠️Mention of miscarriage⚠️
TROPES:
fake dating
Visually Impaired FMC
Bi MMC
one bed
Found Family
Mental Health Rep
Scotland Setting
Dual POV
Open-Door Spice
Grumpy-FMC
Sunshine-MMC
August 21, 2025
The classic “I got rejected so now I need to fake date to show that I have moved on but little did I know I would actually fall for my date.” Linny, the antique store owner, ends up fake dating Ben, the bi café owner/baker next door, and honestly I was hooked right away. I am such a sucker for disability rep and Linny has Retinitis Pigmentosa. Every single time they were yearning for each other even when they were supposed to be fake dating… my heart! 🫠🫠 The forehead kisses, the little endearments, the way they looked at each other aghhh my heart just could not take it anymore.😩😩
Linny is so relatable, especially when you are living with a chronic illness and feel like you do not want to burden anyone so you just decide to swear off love forever. But then Ben came along and proved her wrong in the sweetest way. I adored their chemistry, their banter had me laughing 🤣🤣🤣, and the way their relationship grew felt so natural and tender. It is a true slow burn romance that makes you ache in the best way, with the perfect dose of fluffy spice that makes the wait worth it. And that ending… so, so satisfying.
This was such a beautiful read and I am beyond grateful I got the chance to experience it. This is my honest opinion for the ARC I received. Thank you so much Kat for giving me the opportunity!
September 14, 2025
This book deals with a lot of sensitive topics but it's well done. Ben and Linny's "fake" relationship grows naturally over the course of the book and doesn't feel forced they have you rooting for them to cross out the "fake" part of their relationship as they were on the fence of friends to more frequently throughout the book and led to some suspense of will they or won't they.
It took me awhile to get into this book but once I was into it I was all in. I really enjoyed all the loveable side characters as well like Ben's sister and her partner and even his friend (yes that friend) who all stuck by him even when he was trying to push everyone away. Linny has a quirky aunt who regularly discusses the ghosts that are in their shop and it gives a nod towards the Ghost Whisperer show (early 2000's Jennifer Love Hewitt show).
Linny's ex is something else... upgrade to Ben already!
blog post: https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...
*Rom Com *ARC read *some spice *Dual POV *fake dating *Black cat x golden retriever
*Visually impaired FMC *Found family *Bi MMC *Mental health rep *Scotland
Trigger warnings: mentions of miscarriage (in the past), past emotional/verbal abuse by an ex
It took me awhile to get into this book but once I was into it I was all in. I really enjoyed all the loveable side characters as well like Ben's sister and her partner and even his friend (yes that friend) who all stuck by him even when he was trying to push everyone away. Linny has a quirky aunt who regularly discusses the ghosts that are in their shop and it gives a nod towards the Ghost Whisperer show (early 2000's Jennifer Love Hewitt show).
Linny's ex is something else... upgrade to Ben already!
blog post: https://elbyslibrary.blogspot.com/202...
*Rom Com *ARC read *some spice *Dual POV *fake dating *Black cat x golden retriever
*Visually impaired FMC *Found family *Bi MMC *Mental health rep *Scotland
Trigger warnings: mentions of miscarriage (in the past), past emotional/verbal abuse by an ex
November 1, 2025
“That’s what you should find in a partner, right? Someone who helps grow your community, not deplete it.”
Just like Kat Paige’s previous book, I couldn’t put this one down and read it in one go. I love this author fluid writing style that engulfes me in a story and in the characters’ mind —and I love how “fresh” they feel.
I adored Linny and how her visual impairment is written, how she lives day by day but also her insecurities. I don’t have the same disability but it spoke to me a lot anyway.
Ben is just as endearing and I loved his trajectory regarding David. This isn’t something we can read a lot in romance books, and I loved that.
The relationship between both MC have a true friendship as foundation (even if it’s a short lived one), and there is a lot of communication between them —even though they are lying to themselves, but that’s… another story. I loved seeing them helping each other to heal and grief, being a (most of the time) silent support for the other. But they also make sparks, and the spicy scenes were great, a bit away from heteronormative standards. I wish I could read more MF books like that.
If you are looking for a romcom but with deepest themes, anchored in friendship and respect, I can’t recommend this book (and whole series) enough!
4.5/5
Just like Kat Paige’s previous book, I couldn’t put this one down and read it in one go. I love this author fluid writing style that engulfes me in a story and in the characters’ mind —and I love how “fresh” they feel.
I adored Linny and how her visual impairment is written, how she lives day by day but also her insecurities. I don’t have the same disability but it spoke to me a lot anyway.
Ben is just as endearing and I loved his trajectory regarding David. This isn’t something we can read a lot in romance books, and I loved that.
The relationship between both MC have a true friendship as foundation (even if it’s a short lived one), and there is a lot of communication between them —even though they are lying to themselves, but that’s… another story. I loved seeing them helping each other to heal and grief, being a (most of the time) silent support for the other. But they also make sparks, and the spicy scenes were great, a bit away from heteronormative standards. I wish I could read more MF books like that.
If you are looking for a romcom but with deepest themes, anchored in friendship and respect, I can’t recommend this book (and whole series) enough!
4.5/5
August 8, 2025
This book had me on a rollercoaster of emotions. I would suggest reading the trigger warnings before starting. I'm totally in love with this book and the main characters. It was nice to be able to see Ben from a different POV than how he was shown in the previous books. You got a better understanding of what he was going through and his personality which was so charming and lovable. His sense of humor and banter is the best I've read. He genuinely would make me laugh with his comments to Linny during the most intimate moments. Linny is also so loveable and caring. I felt so much for her and loved the character development for her alone but also with relationships in general. I loved how the other characters from the previous books made an appearance and showed a different side of them as well. The story progressed at a perfect speed and everything fell into place naturally. It was such a good read and my heart is full. I won't stop thinking about these characters for a while. I didn't think I liked the fake dating trope but perhaps I never found the right book! It was done so well in this story.
p.s. Atti could go suck a cactus.
p.s. Atti could go suck a cactus.
August 26, 2025
Storm in a Teacup is the 3rd book in the Love in Edinburgh series. It is an interconnected standalone. Characters from the first two books appear often in this book.
Characters:
Melinda “Linny” Jenkins age 28
Bennett “Ben” Pyeon age 30
There is a bit of a spicy meet cute to kick off the book. The main characters find each other initially when they both need support. Enter fake dating, the perfect solution to trying to fake getting over the past. But soon, it’s not fake anymore.
The LGBTQ+ representation in the book and with Ben felt authentic. Ben’s coming out is normalized and it was refreshing to have sexual health discussed.
Linny’s chronic condition is handled with care and we can see the contrast between how she is treated by her ex and by Ben. Ben supports Linny where she needs it but doesn’t coddle her. They’re perfect for each other.
What to Expect:
Dual POV
Bi MMC
Fake Dating
Black Cat x Golden Retriever
Visually Impaired FMC
Scotland Setting
Found Family
Mental Health Rep
One Bed
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you Kat Paige for providing me with an advanced copy of this book!
Characters:
Melinda “Linny” Jenkins age 28
Bennett “Ben” Pyeon age 30
There is a bit of a spicy meet cute to kick off the book. The main characters find each other initially when they both need support. Enter fake dating, the perfect solution to trying to fake getting over the past. But soon, it’s not fake anymore.
The LGBTQ+ representation in the book and with Ben felt authentic. Ben’s coming out is normalized and it was refreshing to have sexual health discussed.
Linny’s chronic condition is handled with care and we can see the contrast between how she is treated by her ex and by Ben. Ben supports Linny where she needs it but doesn’t coddle her. They’re perfect for each other.
What to Expect:
Dual POV
Bi MMC
Fake Dating
Black Cat x Golden Retriever
Visually Impaired FMC
Scotland Setting
Found Family
Mental Health Rep
One Bed
Spice:
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you Kat Paige for providing me with an advanced copy of this book!
August 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I loved this one! It came in super hot right off the get go comes with a heartbreak and bi panic.
Ben’s internal monologue is a disaster but I’m so here for it. It’s very real and we all have these real thoughts about being too much for others. Linny is also just super sweet and just trying to live her life while dealing with the challenges of her Retinitis Pigmentosa and trying not to let it dictate her life. As someone with a chronic illness, I totally get her fears and hangups about not wanting to be in a relationship because they also become caregivers.
I loved that this was fake dating, while also being a friends to lovers trope. They were fake dating for the masses, while also just genuinely enjoying getting to know each other as friends outside of the fake dating. I love the genuine friendship they developed outside of dating.
I loved this book. I thought it was really real and sweet and I’m looking forward to checking out the rest of the series.
Thank you to Kat Paige, and BookFunnel for an advanced copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved this one! It came in super hot right off the get go comes with a heartbreak and bi panic.
Ben’s internal monologue is a disaster but I’m so here for it. It’s very real and we all have these real thoughts about being too much for others. Linny is also just super sweet and just trying to live her life while dealing with the challenges of her Retinitis Pigmentosa and trying not to let it dictate her life. As someone with a chronic illness, I totally get her fears and hangups about not wanting to be in a relationship because they also become caregivers.
I loved that this was fake dating, while also being a friends to lovers trope. They were fake dating for the masses, while also just genuinely enjoying getting to know each other as friends outside of the fake dating. I love the genuine friendship they developed outside of dating.
I loved this book. I thought it was really real and sweet and I’m looking forward to checking out the rest of the series.
Thank you to Kat Paige, and BookFunnel for an advanced copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 30, 2025
I received an ARC from the author and this is my review.
This was my first book by Kat Paige and what first drew me to it was the FMC navigating vision loss. I have never read a romance with that experience before, and I was immediately intrigued.
The character development was so strong. Linny’s journey felt layered and real, and I loved seeing her grow both in love and in her own strength. Their meet cute had me smiling right away and kept me hooked through the story.
I also really liked Ben. The way he came out to his family was so sweet, and I loved his cheekiness. What really stood out to me was how he communicated with Linny through touch, those small subtle reminders that he was there. I find those little moments of touch so intimate and romantic, and it made their connection feel even more special.
What I appreciated most was how Kat addressed deeper topics like resilience, grief, and self-discovery within the context of a romance. It gave the book so much heart while still being a swoony, tender read that left me smiling.
Now I have to and read the rest of the Love in Edinburgh series!
This was my first book by Kat Paige and what first drew me to it was the FMC navigating vision loss. I have never read a romance with that experience before, and I was immediately intrigued.
The character development was so strong. Linny’s journey felt layered and real, and I loved seeing her grow both in love and in her own strength. Their meet cute had me smiling right away and kept me hooked through the story.
I also really liked Ben. The way he came out to his family was so sweet, and I loved his cheekiness. What really stood out to me was how he communicated with Linny through touch, those small subtle reminders that he was there. I find those little moments of touch so intimate and romantic, and it made their connection feel even more special.
What I appreciated most was how Kat addressed deeper topics like resilience, grief, and self-discovery within the context of a romance. It gave the book so much heart while still being a swoony, tender read that left me smiling.
Now I have to and read the rest of the Love in Edinburgh series!
September 1, 2025
Thank you Kat Paige for an advanced e copy of this book!
Such a cute and cozy read! Set in Edinburgh, so characters have accents, and sayings, which I always find so fun! I loved Linny and Ben ❤️ they are such a cute couple and their banter 😂 or should I say Ben’s ability to make the most inappropriate and sometimes awesome jokes 😂😂 he’s defs one to use humor to deflect! Linny has a more subtle comedic side but still funny all the same!
Linny has a neurodegenerative eye disease so she’s going through the difficulties of managing that plus a mean af ex-fiancé, while Ben has recently had his bi-awakening ❤️ and is dealing with his first unrequited love 😭😭 Also loved the side characters! They’re such a great group of friends and family ❤️
This is defs a slower burn, with these two becoming friendsish while also fake dating and some fun flirting, to finally giving themselves a shot and saying ❤️ loved the journey they took to get to their HEA, and Oscar Wilde defs deserves a shoutout too 🐈
The spice! It is an open door romance, doesn’t have too many scenes, all happen in the second half but boy! Are they steamy!! The chemistry ✨Chefs kiss✨
❤️❤️❤️❤️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Such a cute and cozy read! Set in Edinburgh, so characters have accents, and sayings, which I always find so fun! I loved Linny and Ben ❤️ they are such a cute couple and their banter 😂 or should I say Ben’s ability to make the most inappropriate and sometimes awesome jokes 😂😂 he’s defs one to use humor to deflect! Linny has a more subtle comedic side but still funny all the same!
Linny has a neurodegenerative eye disease so she’s going through the difficulties of managing that plus a mean af ex-fiancé, while Ben has recently had his bi-awakening ❤️ and is dealing with his first unrequited love 😭😭 Also loved the side characters! They’re such a great group of friends and family ❤️
This is defs a slower burn, with these two becoming friendsish while also fake dating and some fun flirting, to finally giving themselves a shot and saying ❤️ loved the journey they took to get to their HEA, and Oscar Wilde defs deserves a shoutout too 🐈
The spice! It is an open door romance, doesn’t have too many scenes, all happen in the second half but boy! Are they steamy!! The chemistry ✨Chefs kiss✨
❤️❤️❤️❤️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 6, 2025
Storm in a Teacup is a fake dating contemporary romance between the co-owner of a café and the girl at the antique shop next door. They both get what they need from their little arrangement, but what then??
I absolutely LOVE Linny and Ben! Ben was just the right amount of ridiculous and loveable, and Linny brought just enough grumpiness that they balanced each other out so nicely. The banter was perfectly playful, and the pace of their relationship felt natural and realistic.
As a spoonie (aka person with multiple chronic illnesses), I could relate to Linny at several different points in the book, from the annoying eye test with the dots that makes you feel like you’re going insane, to the unease at the thought of being in a relationship. Linny was a great representation of people like me - those who have to always think of the little things and do their best to survive in an unaccommodating world (and often with unaccommodating people). It means even more knowing that the author has similar struggles.💜
Overall a great read, and one that I’ll come back to!
*This is the third in a series, but can be read as a stand alone (I did!)
I absolutely LOVE Linny and Ben! Ben was just the right amount of ridiculous and loveable, and Linny brought just enough grumpiness that they balanced each other out so nicely. The banter was perfectly playful, and the pace of their relationship felt natural and realistic.
As a spoonie (aka person with multiple chronic illnesses), I could relate to Linny at several different points in the book, from the annoying eye test with the dots that makes you feel like you’re going insane, to the unease at the thought of being in a relationship. Linny was a great representation of people like me - those who have to always think of the little things and do their best to survive in an unaccommodating world (and often with unaccommodating people). It means even more knowing that the author has similar struggles.💜
Overall a great read, and one that I’ll come back to!
*This is the third in a series, but can be read as a stand alone (I did!)
August 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved this book. I got this as an ARC, and full disclosure I have not read the other books in this world. (Though I will definitely be picking them up now.) It was the perfect blend of snarky humor, sweet moments, and trauma dumping. Essentially, a millennial real life story. The book itself was not super long but sitting at over 300 pages it certainly has time to expand on the story. I also adore the queer representation in it and the disability as well. I know Paige draws from personal experiences and it honestly shows through but does not overshadow the story of Linny and Ben.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I would say it’s probably closer to 2.5 because the spice is spicy but again does not overshadow the story. If you are not a fan of open door scenes then this is not the book for you. It is also not so explicit that I was blushing.
“Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightly,” I sob. “Of course. The classic bisexual awakening.”
#spicy #romance #oppositesattract #sunshineandgrumpy #booksky #bookstagram #booktok #ARC #newrelease #queerrelationships #fakedating #tome #foundfamily
I loved this book. I got this as an ARC, and full disclosure I have not read the other books in this world. (Though I will definitely be picking them up now.) It was the perfect blend of snarky humor, sweet moments, and trauma dumping. Essentially, a millennial real life story. The book itself was not super long but sitting at over 300 pages it certainly has time to expand on the story. I also adore the queer representation in it and the disability as well. I know Paige draws from personal experiences and it honestly shows through but does not overshadow the story of Linny and Ben.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I would say it’s probably closer to 2.5 because the spice is spicy but again does not overshadow the story. If you are not a fan of open door scenes then this is not the book for you. It is also not so explicit that I was blushing.
“Orlando Bloom and Keira Knightly,” I sob. “Of course. The classic bisexual awakening.”
#spicy #romance #oppositesattract #sunshineandgrumpy #booksky #bookstagram #booktok #ARC #newrelease #queerrelationships #fakedating #tome #foundfamily
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