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Meet Your Match #1
Late Match
MacKenzie
The match is very important in the life of a medical school by helping young doctors determine their chosen field and location for future training. But for me, the Match finished off my relationship.
My fiancé Evan and I broke up during our internship year after we didn’t match in the same city. Friends have been telling me for 15 years I needed to clear the air with Evan so I could actually move forward with my life.
I had no intention of doing that because the idea hurt too much. At least not until I ran into Evan at a swim academy for my son. Fifteen years later. And everything came back...
Evan
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw MacKenzie at swim camp. Everyone says we should talk. But talking would bring up a lot of old feelings that I have been struggling to keep under wraps all this time.
Who knows where this might lead?
Late Match, a dual point of view, first person second chance romance.
The match is very important in the life of a medical school by helping young doctors determine their chosen field and location for future training. But for me, the Match finished off my relationship.
My fiancé Evan and I broke up during our internship year after we didn’t match in the same city. Friends have been telling me for 15 years I needed to clear the air with Evan so I could actually move forward with my life.
I had no intention of doing that because the idea hurt too much. At least not until I ran into Evan at a swim academy for my son. Fifteen years later. And everything came back...
Evan
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw MacKenzie at swim camp. Everyone says we should talk. But talking would bring up a lot of old feelings that I have been struggling to keep under wraps all this time.
Who knows where this might lead?
Late Match, a dual point of view, first person second chance romance.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2025
8 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
D.W. Brooks
5 books188 followersThe author and editor lives in Texas with her husband and children. She enjoys trying to stay in shape, sporadically cooking, reading (still), writing, and working on her blog. She is eternally grateful to the woman who donated a kidney to her over 8 years ago and continues to advocate for organ donation as much as she can.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
June 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Second chance romance
Multiple povs
First love
Characters in 30s/40s
Forced proximity
Everyone can see it
Great read!!
This story follows Mackenzie “Mac” and Evan, who were once in love and things ended, that are forced to be around each other over a decade later. This was an easy read with short comprehendible chapters! The story feels somewhat realistic but still has that romantic fiction edge to it. The idea of having loved and lost was so relatable. I loved the age of the MCs, having experienced life apart for 15 years and getting that back story. It was refreshing to have maturity in them to a certain extent. I would classify this as a slow burn, things happen to move the story along but not what we all want to happen :) lol.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Second chance romance
Multiple povs
First love
Characters in 30s/40s
Forced proximity
Everyone can see it
Great read!!
This story follows Mackenzie “Mac” and Evan, who were once in love and things ended, that are forced to be around each other over a decade later. This was an easy read with short comprehendible chapters! The story feels somewhat realistic but still has that romantic fiction edge to it. The idea of having loved and lost was so relatable. I loved the age of the MCs, having experienced life apart for 15 years and getting that back story. It was refreshing to have maturity in them to a certain extent. I would classify this as a slow burn, things happen to move the story along but not what we all want to happen :) lol.
June 23, 2025
A beautiful story of second chance romance. The MCs are now grown-ups with a teenage son apiece, and they just happen to wind up at the same swim camp. It also happens to be the same swim camp where they met all those years ago before life and medical schools tore them apart. Both are now divorced but are friendly with their exes, and the four adults and two kids have to navigate their way through the week.
Evan and Mac met when they were young, at swim camp. Both medical school students, they were head over heels in love and engaged to be married when they matched at different state schools and couldn’t survive the long distance. However, they never stopped loving each other, despite both remarrying.
I loved seeing the dual pov from both Evan and Mac, seeing their individual take on what happened fifteen years ago and also how things were going now. We also got chapters from Grace and David, the ex-wife and ex-husband, who are now conspiring to get Evan and Mac back together. I also loved how the two boys became instant friends, meaning the two families were forced to spend time with each other.
I think the only downside was Mac’s constant rejection of any inkling of happiness for herself throughout the whole book, which was then pretty much resolved with one phone call. Otherwise, this book would have been perfect.
Evan and Mac met when they were young, at swim camp. Both medical school students, they were head over heels in love and engaged to be married when they matched at different state schools and couldn’t survive the long distance. However, they never stopped loving each other, despite both remarrying.
I loved seeing the dual pov from both Evan and Mac, seeing their individual take on what happened fifteen years ago and also how things were going now. We also got chapters from Grace and David, the ex-wife and ex-husband, who are now conspiring to get Evan and Mac back together. I also loved how the two boys became instant friends, meaning the two families were forced to spend time with each other.
I think the only downside was Mac’s constant rejection of any inkling of happiness for herself throughout the whole book, which was then pretty much resolved with one phone call. Otherwise, this book would have been perfect.
June 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Review: Late Match by D.W. Brooks
Second chances have always been a tricky trope for me, but Late Match handled it surprisingly well. While there were moments that had me yelling at my phone for the characters to just get back together already (haha), the emotional payoff was worth it. No matter how things turned out, I felt satisfied by the end.
Told from four different points of view, the book dives deep into each character's perspective—and I actually loved that. Every character brought something to the table, and honestly, even the exes were major green flags in my eyes. The chemistry between all the characters was spot-on, and the main couple? Let’s just say their steamy scenes delivered.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys stories about second chances, strong co-parenting dynamics, and sizzling romance—with a splash of competitive swimming and the vibrant backdrop of Miami life.
Second chances have always been a tricky trope for me, but Late Match handled it surprisingly well. While there were moments that had me yelling at my phone for the characters to just get back together already (haha), the emotional payoff was worth it. No matter how things turned out, I felt satisfied by the end.
Told from four different points of view, the book dives deep into each character's perspective—and I actually loved that. Every character brought something to the table, and honestly, even the exes were major green flags in my eyes. The chemistry between all the characters was spot-on, and the main couple? Let’s just say their steamy scenes delivered.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys stories about second chances, strong co-parenting dynamics, and sizzling romance—with a splash of competitive swimming and the vibrant backdrop of Miami life.
July 1, 2025
HEA
Cute little second chance, romance, I love that the characters were all older and at the same stage of life that I’m at and kids were involved …. The feeling that anything is possible and your happiness is worth
Cute little second chance, romance, I love that the characters were all older and at the same stage of life that I’m at and kids were involved …. The feeling that anything is possible and your happiness is worth
June 22, 2025
Well this just got devoured, in less than a day! At under 300 pages, yes it’s a short read, but it had me completely hooked.
This is a lovely, easy, and heartwarming second-chance romance filled with all the tropes we know and love. You've got forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, first love, found family, he-falls-first… and even some meddling exes and the classic “everyone can see it” energy.
Single mom Mackenzie unexpectedly runs into her first love and ex-fiancé, Evan, at their sons’ swim academy—fifteen years after their breakup. The timing may be unexpected, but it’s perfect for clearing the air.
They met in medical school, fell deeply in love, and made all the plans for a life together. But when the residency match process pulled them in different directions, their relationship ended - with no contact since. Now, fate has thrown them back into each other's lives, and everyone around them (friends, family, even their exes) are rooting for a reunion.
What follows is a week 'vacation', some very determined exes (shoutout to Grace and David!), and a spark that refuses to stay buried.
Mackenzie was incredibly relatable - not just as a single mom whose world revolves around her son, but in her self-doubts and feelings of unworthiness. That said, I did find her hot-and-cold behaviour a bit frustrating at times. One minute she’s resisting a future with Evan out of concern for her son, and the next they’re all over each other—rinse and repeat—until Evan finally takes a stand. Still, it added to the tension and made their eventual progress more satisfying.
The co-parenting aspect was such a refreshing read. As someone with a very different personal experience, it was heartening to see how well it can work. Grace and David, despite never having met before, were such a fun duo as they teamed up to push Evan and Mackenzie back together. They understood why their own relationships didn’t work out but still cared enough to support their exes which was really uplifting to read. It’s a great reminder that not all breakups have to end badly... though that’s certainly not always the case!
Having older MCs brought a welcome layer of realism and maturity to the story, while still keeping the romantic tension and emotional pull we love from this genre. Brooks did a great job weaving the backstory into the present-day narrative - it all flowed seamlessly.
Told in dual first-person POV, with a few bonus chapters from Grace and David’s perspectives, the story felt intimate and well-rounded. And don’t worry - there’s still plenty of steam and spice to enjoy.
If you're looking for a quick, fun, emotionally satisfying read, Late Match is definitely worth picking up!
---
Thank you to DW Brooks & Happily Booked PR for the review copy.
This is a lovely, easy, and heartwarming second-chance romance filled with all the tropes we know and love. You've got forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, first love, found family, he-falls-first… and even some meddling exes and the classic “everyone can see it” energy.
Single mom Mackenzie unexpectedly runs into her first love and ex-fiancé, Evan, at their sons’ swim academy—fifteen years after their breakup. The timing may be unexpected, but it’s perfect for clearing the air.
They met in medical school, fell deeply in love, and made all the plans for a life together. But when the residency match process pulled them in different directions, their relationship ended - with no contact since. Now, fate has thrown them back into each other's lives, and everyone around them (friends, family, even their exes) are rooting for a reunion.
What follows is a week 'vacation', some very determined exes (shoutout to Grace and David!), and a spark that refuses to stay buried.
Mackenzie was incredibly relatable - not just as a single mom whose world revolves around her son, but in her self-doubts and feelings of unworthiness. That said, I did find her hot-and-cold behaviour a bit frustrating at times. One minute she’s resisting a future with Evan out of concern for her son, and the next they’re all over each other—rinse and repeat—until Evan finally takes a stand. Still, it added to the tension and made their eventual progress more satisfying.
The co-parenting aspect was such a refreshing read. As someone with a very different personal experience, it was heartening to see how well it can work. Grace and David, despite never having met before, were such a fun duo as they teamed up to push Evan and Mackenzie back together. They understood why their own relationships didn’t work out but still cared enough to support their exes which was really uplifting to read. It’s a great reminder that not all breakups have to end badly... though that’s certainly not always the case!
Having older MCs brought a welcome layer of realism and maturity to the story, while still keeping the romantic tension and emotional pull we love from this genre. Brooks did a great job weaving the backstory into the present-day narrative - it all flowed seamlessly.
Told in dual first-person POV, with a few bonus chapters from Grace and David’s perspectives, the story felt intimate and well-rounded. And don’t worry - there’s still plenty of steam and spice to enjoy.
If you're looking for a quick, fun, emotionally satisfying read, Late Match is definitely worth picking up!
---
Thank you to DW Brooks & Happily Booked PR for the review copy.
June 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Does true love ever burn out? DW Brooks writes how it doesn’t in Late Match. A devastating breakup, followed by 15 years of separation has two hearts colliding again in a second chance romance that will leave you smiling and believing in love. DW starts her story off with a first love that sees nothing but happiness in their future. But when the reality of their jobs sets in, the decision to part is the only path they see. But fate is a funny thing and the plan for these two was long but over.
Mackenzie is now a single mom who is dedicated to her son. She is easy to relate to and I actually loved her grumpy undertones. Her heart is protected from everyone but her son, who she knows will never hurt her. She never expected to see Evan again, but her ex-fiance has turned back up in her life. As she tries to fight the feelings that everyone can see is there, she can’t help but remember how life felt with Evan and the possibility of what if.
Evan has never forgotten his first love Mackenzie, but is overjoyed when they see each other again by accident. He isn’t going to let her go easily this time around and she burns someone hot and cold, he is all in. I loved his determination and him being a hopeless romantic. He even has his and Mackenzie’s exes working to bring him and her together. I do have to say the exes were a breath of fresh air and I loved how they rooted for these two to be together.
DW brings heartwarming characters together in this story and leaves you with all the feelings. I love that most of our characters are older and established in life. The dynamics that play into this second chance romance are easy to relate to and understand being older in life myself. She did a wonderful job of portraying two hearts that are meant to be, but life has left one somewhat jaded. With being less than 300 pages, this book is a fun and enjoyable read.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🩺He Falls First
✨Close Proximity
🩺Second Chance Romance
✨Everyone Can See It
🩺Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
✨Meddling Exes
Does true love ever burn out? DW Brooks writes how it doesn’t in Late Match. A devastating breakup, followed by 15 years of separation has two hearts colliding again in a second chance romance that will leave you smiling and believing in love. DW starts her story off with a first love that sees nothing but happiness in their future. But when the reality of their jobs sets in, the decision to part is the only path they see. But fate is a funny thing and the plan for these two was long but over.
Mackenzie is now a single mom who is dedicated to her son. She is easy to relate to and I actually loved her grumpy undertones. Her heart is protected from everyone but her son, who she knows will never hurt her. She never expected to see Evan again, but her ex-fiance has turned back up in her life. As she tries to fight the feelings that everyone can see is there, she can’t help but remember how life felt with Evan and the possibility of what if.
Evan has never forgotten his first love Mackenzie, but is overjoyed when they see each other again by accident. He isn’t going to let her go easily this time around and she burns someone hot and cold, he is all in. I loved his determination and him being a hopeless romantic. He even has his and Mackenzie’s exes working to bring him and her together. I do have to say the exes were a breath of fresh air and I loved how they rooted for these two to be together.
DW brings heartwarming characters together in this story and leaves you with all the feelings. I love that most of our characters are older and established in life. The dynamics that play into this second chance romance are easy to relate to and understand being older in life myself. She did a wonderful job of portraying two hearts that are meant to be, but life has left one somewhat jaded. With being less than 300 pages, this book is a fun and enjoyable read.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🩺He Falls First
✨Close Proximity
🩺Second Chance Romance
✨Everyone Can See It
🩺Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
✨Meddling Exes
June 29, 2025
Oh, baby, it’s steamy in the Sunshine State! Evan Robertson is an easy-going neurosurgeon and former competitive swimmer with “a smile that practically need[s] its own zip code.” Samantha Mackenzie “Mac” Stephens is an ambitious pediatrician with a stubborn streak and some history. Fifteen years ago, the pair fell in love in medical school but were torn apart when they failed to match at the same residency program. Now, they are about to meet again when both their sons qualify to attend a prestigious swim academy in Miami.
Late Match by author D. W. Brooks is the kind of book you can devour in a couple sittings or read slowly, savoring it. The word-choice is scalpel-sharp, the feelings are raw, and the sex sizzles. It is both a love story and a cautionary tale. Mac carries more emotional baggage than anyone should have to haul through life, and it gets in her way. She is painfully slow to realize what every other character already knows: that she and Evan make a perfect pair. If you have ever survived something truly traumatic, only to live with the lifelong scars, then you will understand the source of Mac’s problem. This type of character is difficult to write and even harder to sell to most readers, who, by sheer good fortune, will probably struggle to relate to her feral thought processes. But the author has done an admirable job of making Mac come to life, at least in part because she took a risk and wrote her story in multiple first-person point of view. With Mac, Evan, and their respective significant others each having a turn, Brooks gets into her characters’ heads like she doesn’t deserve to be there before spilling their innermost secrets. Swoon!
Evan and Mac matched late, but you don’t have to wait to find the perfect beach read because Late Match is already at bookstores. If you enjoy super spicy slow-burn romance, get a copy stat! Then bask in the summer heat like you live in Miami.
Late Match by author D. W. Brooks is the kind of book you can devour in a couple sittings or read slowly, savoring it. The word-choice is scalpel-sharp, the feelings are raw, and the sex sizzles. It is both a love story and a cautionary tale. Mac carries more emotional baggage than anyone should have to haul through life, and it gets in her way. She is painfully slow to realize what every other character already knows: that she and Evan make a perfect pair. If you have ever survived something truly traumatic, only to live with the lifelong scars, then you will understand the source of Mac’s problem. This type of character is difficult to write and even harder to sell to most readers, who, by sheer good fortune, will probably struggle to relate to her feral thought processes. But the author has done an admirable job of making Mac come to life, at least in part because she took a risk and wrote her story in multiple first-person point of view. With Mac, Evan, and their respective significant others each having a turn, Brooks gets into her characters’ heads like she doesn’t deserve to be there before spilling their innermost secrets. Swoon!
Evan and Mac matched late, but you don’t have to wait to find the perfect beach read because Late Match is already at bookstores. If you enjoy super spicy slow-burn romance, get a copy stat! Then bask in the summer heat like you live in Miami.
June 29, 2025
4.5 stars – ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice – 🌶️🌶️
There’s something so special about a second-chance romance—especially one built on first love, unfinished conversations, and a spark that never truly went out.
Mac (Samantha Mackenzie Stephens) and Evan Robertson were once young, wildly in love, and engaged… until med school pulled them to opposite sides of the country. They let go of each other, married other people, and built lives apart. But when fate places them back in each other’s orbit—now as single divorced parents to two boys who become instant friends—old feelings begin to stir.
Their respective sons, Alex and Gabe, are attending swim camp in sunny Florida when the unexpected reunion happens. And suddenly, Mac and Evan are navigating close quarters, familiar memories, and the ache of what could have been.
I loved the multiple POVs—not just from Mac and Evan, but also their exes, Grace and David. Instead of adding drama, these two bring warmth, wit, and a gentle push in the right direction as they hilariously team up to nudge Mac and Evan back toward each other. Their presence adds charm and heart to an already emotional story.
Late Match is a tender, hopeful story about timing, healing, and love that never really fades. It’s romantic in the quietest, most meaningful ways—with lingering glances, vulnerable conversations, and the courage to try again. Full of charm, chemistry, and just the right amount of spice, it left me smiling long after the final page.
Thank you @happilybookedpr & @authordwbrooks for the ARC. I’ll definitely be reading more from D.W. Brooks. 🏊♂️ ❤️ 🌶️ ☀️
Spice – 🌶️🌶️
There’s something so special about a second-chance romance—especially one built on first love, unfinished conversations, and a spark that never truly went out.
Mac (Samantha Mackenzie Stephens) and Evan Robertson were once young, wildly in love, and engaged… until med school pulled them to opposite sides of the country. They let go of each other, married other people, and built lives apart. But when fate places them back in each other’s orbit—now as single divorced parents to two boys who become instant friends—old feelings begin to stir.
Their respective sons, Alex and Gabe, are attending swim camp in sunny Florida when the unexpected reunion happens. And suddenly, Mac and Evan are navigating close quarters, familiar memories, and the ache of what could have been.
I loved the multiple POVs—not just from Mac and Evan, but also their exes, Grace and David. Instead of adding drama, these two bring warmth, wit, and a gentle push in the right direction as they hilariously team up to nudge Mac and Evan back toward each other. Their presence adds charm and heart to an already emotional story.
Late Match is a tender, hopeful story about timing, healing, and love that never really fades. It’s romantic in the quietest, most meaningful ways—with lingering glances, vulnerable conversations, and the courage to try again. Full of charm, chemistry, and just the right amount of spice, it left me smiling long after the final page.
Thank you @happilybookedpr & @authordwbrooks for the ARC. I’ll definitely be reading more from D.W. Brooks. 🏊♂️ ❤️ 🌶️ ☀️
June 26, 2025
This is a second chance romance that mostly happens during a week where the main characters run into each other at a swim camp for their kids. They are there with their exes and the whole situation with the exes trying to set them back up was...odd? It is highly unlikely that two exes are going to form a bond and be ok with setting up their former spouse with the "love of their life that got away." I also felt like Grace and David were more like high school kids medaling in others lives...but then again... Mac and Evan were very immature and almost like puppets to their medaling. There is no way they kept falling asleep or not hearing what Grace and David were talking about right in front of them?! But the thing is, the story kept me reading to see what was going to happen...so that was definitely something! Grace and David were excellent co-parents and show was a healthy situation for that can look like. And it was fun to visit Florida since it is summer, so it has that beach vibe going for it.
Bottom Line: I was a little disappointed how immature all the characters felt for being adults that have teenage children. There was a lot of drama for "older" characters. But the story was entertaining enough to keep me reading and passed the time just fine.
**I received a copy of Late Match from Happily Booked and am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.**
Bottom Line: I was a little disappointed how immature all the characters felt for being adults that have teenage children. There was a lot of drama for "older" characters. But the story was entertaining enough to keep me reading and passed the time just fine.
**I received a copy of Late Match from Happily Booked and am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.**
June 30, 2025
Divorcees with a son apiece meet up at a swim meet and it’s a treat for the eyes surprise for them both ,though fifteen years past and they took a different path ,they should have been betrothed truth be told . If their academic paths The Match hadn’t off railed their way. They did love each other anyway. Does this spell out a second romance ,well given half the chance it should. Even the exes lend a hand , Grace and David ,aren’t they grand. Isn’t it nice when you still get along great with your ex mates ? And this couple both do. A bit slow on the upkeep are these two peeps but when they get going thanks to their exes they’re at it like sheep! Or rampant rabbits even! You get my drift? Evan and Mackenzie/Mac can’t go back but they can get back on track, their friends of 15 years told them straight how it was meant to be but at least now they get their ecstasy but can it set them free from the misery of their gap years the tears and all? Read this wonderfully penned story you’ll have a ball ,not a bawl I guarantee it one hundred percent. Like this book? I was spent ! In my element ! Couldn’t devour quick enough,it’s got some great stuff and then some . It’s a mighty handsome read and filled a need ,I didn’t know I had . Of reading this bliss of a storyline I’m glad,it was divine
July 2, 2025
Late Match was a really nice change of pace for me. This was a second chance romance, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity story. The story and the plot was great and entertaining. Evan and Mac meet, fall in love but end up separating because they both got accepted into programs that were away from each other. Long distance didn't work out. Years later, they're brought back together through their kids of different marriages and all the tension and unresolved issues were brought back to the surface. While the story itself is very light hearted, I found the characters to be very immature considering they were supposed to be doctors. Also, the fact that both Mac and Evan's ex's were present and were both so chill and calm and good natured about the whole thing made the story feel unrealistic to me. Everything just flowed... too well.. if that's a thing. The story does flip back and forth between the present and the past and I really enjoyed watching them fall for each other again, but I just wish there was a little more to the story and it didn't feel so easy. All that being said, it was still a great read and I'd definitely recommend it if you're looking for an unproblematic, second chance romance.
June 30, 2025
I really loved this book! These characters are so sweet together, and I loved the family and friend relationships that were always there to support them.
Late Match is a he falls first, found family, grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, second chance romance between Mackenzie and Evan.
I really felt for Mackenzie. I get why she struggles to think that anyone could love her enough to stay with her forever, I have that same fear and it’s the one of the worst feelings. But I loved that she really had to do the work and she realized that she does deserve to be happy and in love, and I think many readers will relate to her story.
I loved how Evan thinks the absolute world of Mackenzie. He wants her to know just how much he loves her, and he also wants to be the person who encourages her to grow and heal from her past. I loved how he knows exactly how to push her to be the best version of herself possible, and I think we all need someone like that in our lives.
Thank you so much to @authordwbrooks and @happilybookedpr !
Late Match is now available to download or read for free in KU💗
Late Match is a he falls first, found family, grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, second chance romance between Mackenzie and Evan.
I really felt for Mackenzie. I get why she struggles to think that anyone could love her enough to stay with her forever, I have that same fear and it’s the one of the worst feelings. But I loved that she really had to do the work and she realized that she does deserve to be happy and in love, and I think many readers will relate to her story.
I loved how Evan thinks the absolute world of Mackenzie. He wants her to know just how much he loves her, and he also wants to be the person who encourages her to grow and heal from her past. I loved how he knows exactly how to push her to be the best version of herself possible, and I think we all need someone like that in our lives.
Thank you so much to @authordwbrooks and @happilybookedpr !
Late Match is now available to download or read for free in KU💗
June 25, 2025
This book explores the story of Mac and Evan in their second chance story. The storytelling from D.W Brooks was beautiful, she makes you fully believe you are apart of the world and that you are watching everything unravel together, which i love in a book as it makes you feel very relatable to the main and side characters. The realism of all the characters and how you relate to them in different aspects was definitely my favourite part of the writing as everyone had different struggles and approaches in live. I loved the side characters of Grace and David. i feel like me and Grace would absolutely be best friends, we love a medalling queen. i feel like they also brought a comedic effect to the story too which helped in the lighthearted moments.
I personally enjoyed this book so much as i am usually not a fan of second chance romance, but something about this book had me hooked and i loved every single second in this world. I cannot wait to see what D W Brooks does next and i will definitely be picking it up.
I personally enjoyed this book so much as i am usually not a fan of second chance romance, but something about this book had me hooked and i loved every single second in this world. I cannot wait to see what D W Brooks does next and i will definitely be picking it up.
June 29, 2025
"...I saw your Grinch heart grow three sizes when y’all brushed hands earlier.”
🩺🩺🩺🩺🩺
🩺Second Chance
🩺Single Parents
🩺Grumpy x Sunshine
🩺First Love
🩺Forced Proximity
🩺Meddling Exes (Playing Matchmaker)
🩺🩺🩺🩺🩺
This second chance story was everything I didn't know I needed.
Matching at different residency programs, distance, and insecurity tore them apart 15 years ago, but life is pulling Mac & Evan back together after both of their sons are invited to an elite swim school and become instant friends.
Between the boys' fast friendship & their meddling exes playing matchmaker, there is so much to love! David & Grace, the exes of Mac & Evan, were the perfect side characters and co-parenting examples in how they just wanted their former partners happy. Watching their schemes from their POVs was just right. I really hope we get stories for each of them as well!
✨Voluntarily reviewed as an ARC. Thank you for early access, D.W. & HappilyBooked PR!!✨
🩺🩺🩺🩺🩺
🩺Second Chance
🩺Single Parents
🩺Grumpy x Sunshine
🩺First Love
🩺Forced Proximity
🩺Meddling Exes (Playing Matchmaker)
🩺🩺🩺🩺🩺
This second chance story was everything I didn't know I needed.
Matching at different residency programs, distance, and insecurity tore them apart 15 years ago, but life is pulling Mac & Evan back together after both of their sons are invited to an elite swim school and become instant friends.
Between the boys' fast friendship & their meddling exes playing matchmaker, there is so much to love! David & Grace, the exes of Mac & Evan, were the perfect side characters and co-parenting examples in how they just wanted their former partners happy. Watching their schemes from their POVs was just right. I really hope we get stories for each of them as well!
✨Voluntarily reviewed as an ARC. Thank you for early access, D.W. & HappilyBooked PR!!✨
June 29, 2025
"Late Match" by D. W. Brooks is a touching and emotional story about two people, MacKenzie and Evan, who meet again after being apart for 15 years. Back then, they were deeply in love and had big dreams of spending their lives together. But life had other plans, and they went their separate ways. Now, after all this time, fate brings them back into each other’s lives.
Both MacKenzie and Evan have changed over the years. They’ve grown, faced challenges, and built new lives. But when they meet again, the old feelings they once had come rushing back. Their hearts still remember the love they shared, even if everything else is different now.
This book is all about second chances, healing, and the power of love that never truly fades. It moves slowly and gently, allowing readers to really feel the emotions of the characters.
If you enjoy slow-burn romances and stories about finding love again, Late Match is a lovely read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
Both MacKenzie and Evan have changed over the years. They’ve grown, faced challenges, and built new lives. But when they meet again, the old feelings they once had come rushing back. Their hearts still remember the love they shared, even if everything else is different now.
This book is all about second chances, healing, and the power of love that never truly fades. It moves slowly and gently, allowing readers to really feel the emotions of the characters.
If you enjoy slow-burn romances and stories about finding love again, Late Match is a lovely read that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
July 4, 2025
Title: Late Match
Author: D W Brooks
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC received in exchange for an honest review, reviewed by Emma on behalf of The Plot Thickens Book Club.
I must admit this took me a little while to get into but once the love story blossomed I was fully invested!
The main characters, Evan and Mackenzie, are reunited 15 years after their perfect relationship blew apart, meeting by chance when both of their teenage sons become friends at a prestigious swimming academy.
Both scared to screw it up again, they agree that they should try to be friends, but the chemistry between them is undeniable and it’s not too long before they give in to some serious lust!
I often find ‘spicy’ books cringy so it’s not a genre I would usually go for but I think D W Brooks wrote these scenes really well and I would definitely read another book of hers. She may even have convinced me that I should give more ‘spicy’ books a go!
Author: D W Brooks
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC received in exchange for an honest review, reviewed by Emma on behalf of The Plot Thickens Book Club.
I must admit this took me a little while to get into but once the love story blossomed I was fully invested!
The main characters, Evan and Mackenzie, are reunited 15 years after their perfect relationship blew apart, meeting by chance when both of their teenage sons become friends at a prestigious swimming academy.
Both scared to screw it up again, they agree that they should try to be friends, but the chemistry between them is undeniable and it’s not too long before they give in to some serious lust!
I often find ‘spicy’ books cringy so it’s not a genre I would usually go for but I think D W Brooks wrote these scenes really well and I would definitely read another book of hers. She may even have convinced me that I should give more ‘spicy’ books a go!
June 27, 2025
Late Match is a first loves, second chance romance featuring Samantha Mackenzie (Mac) Stephens and Evan Robertson.
Mac and Evan were engaged 15 years ago and when she shipped her engagement ring back to him, she never expected to see him again. The two cross paths when bringing their respective sons to attend one of the top swim academies in the country. Alexander, Mac's son, and Gabriel, Evan's son, become fast friends, forcing these two former lovers back together. Mac and Evan have unresolved issues from their past that they need to address, and fortunately, their respective exes are all for it. David, Mac's ex, and Grace, Evan's ex, act as little cupids endeavoring to force the two to confront their past and admit to their ongoing feelings.
I enjoyed this quick, fun and easy read. The story is told from multiple POVs and the exes are a hoot. I love how they conspire to get Mac and Evan to admit to their feelings and encourage them to reconnect. There is definite chemistry between Mac and Evan, but given how stubborn and reluctant they are to take a step forward, its a good thing they had people in their corner to point them in the right direction.
This was the first book I've read by Brooks however I'm keen to check out her other work.
Mac and Evan were engaged 15 years ago and when she shipped her engagement ring back to him, she never expected to see him again. The two cross paths when bringing their respective sons to attend one of the top swim academies in the country. Alexander, Mac's son, and Gabriel, Evan's son, become fast friends, forcing these two former lovers back together. Mac and Evan have unresolved issues from their past that they need to address, and fortunately, their respective exes are all for it. David, Mac's ex, and Grace, Evan's ex, act as little cupids endeavoring to force the two to confront their past and admit to their ongoing feelings.
I enjoyed this quick, fun and easy read. The story is told from multiple POVs and the exes are a hoot. I love how they conspire to get Mac and Evan to admit to their feelings and encourage them to reconnect. There is definite chemistry between Mac and Evan, but given how stubborn and reluctant they are to take a step forward, its a good thing they had people in their corner to point them in the right direction.
This was the first book I've read by Brooks however I'm keen to check out her other work.
June 13, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 Second Chance Romance
🖤 Grumpy/Sunshine
💜 First Love
🖤 Meddling Exes
Let me just say how I love the way their exes are pushing them together. McKenzie is a single mom who is doing a great job co-parenting with her son’s dad. Evan is also a single dad co-parenting with his ex-wife. Mac and Evan met in med school and their love story began but after placing in different states the distance was too much. 15 years later their sons become friends at a swimming academy. Their exes both know that they are still in love with each other and understand the reason their own relationships did not work out. Grace and David do everything they can think of to push them together and that has to be my favorite part. This book was so enjoyable and easy to read, I loved it!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💜 Second Chance Romance
🖤 Grumpy/Sunshine
💜 First Love
🖤 Meddling Exes
Let me just say how I love the way their exes are pushing them together. McKenzie is a single mom who is doing a great job co-parenting with her son’s dad. Evan is also a single dad co-parenting with his ex-wife. Mac and Evan met in med school and their love story began but after placing in different states the distance was too much. 15 years later their sons become friends at a swimming academy. Their exes both know that they are still in love with each other and understand the reason their own relationships did not work out. Grace and David do everything they can think of to push them together and that has to be my favorite part. This book was so enjoyable and easy to read, I loved it!!
June 30, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! So much love all around. The meddling exes, the families that truly just wanted to see the MCs happy, and then of course the focal relationship itself! While I might have wanted to strangle both of the MCs a couple times for their “love blindness”, overall I adored all the characters. Grace needs her own story-I’m just sayin. ;) What to expect:
🌄 Second Chance Romance
🌊 Forced Proximity
🌄 Grumpy/Sunshine
🌊 First Love
🌄 Everyone Can See It
🌊 Found Family
🌄 He Falls First
🌊 Meddling Exes
Thank you, happily booked pr and authordwbrooks for the arc!
#arcreader #comingsoon #dwbrooks #latematch #secondchance #firstlove #foundfamily #hefallsfirst #forcedproximity @happilybookedpr
@authordwbrooks
🌄 Second Chance Romance
🌊 Forced Proximity
🌄 Grumpy/Sunshine
🌊 First Love
🌄 Everyone Can See It
🌊 Found Family
🌄 He Falls First
🌊 Meddling Exes
Thank you, happily booked pr and authordwbrooks for the arc!
#arcreader #comingsoon #dwbrooks #latematch #secondchance #firstlove #foundfamily #hefallsfirst #forcedproximity @happilybookedpr
@authordwbrooks
June 30, 2025
OH WOW this was a great book. I just loved it and the book cover caught my attention. It was a steamy page tuner and the suspense was so intense. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t even put it down. Second chance at romance again is special and true love once again . She never thought that she could run into her ex after all years has passed by as she ran into some old feelings started evolution in something more as the physical attraction and chemistry began spicy things up between them once again as they couldn’t fight the temptation any longer. Was they falling in love again in this moment.
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book Happily RP via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones
I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book Happily RP via Bookfunnel and am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones
August 16, 2025
Late Match is a sweet Second Chance Romance with later in life main characters. The storyline was different than any other second chance romance I have read, and I appreciated that. Though I do not usually care for kids in my romance reads, the teenage children in Late Match were pleasant and a key element to the plot. I found this to be a quick and pleasant story, however I found the writing to be simple and lacking depth. The character, main and side, also suffered from this, each characters personality felt flat to me. Towards the middle of the book there is a feeble attempt to show more than one side to the characters, but it was unsuccessful.
Overall I felt this was an ok read. It was entertaining enough that I finished the book, but not very memorable.
Overall I felt this was an ok read. It was entertaining enough that I finished the book, but not very memorable.
June 13, 2025
I love a second chance romance, especially when the characters are in their 40s. This story was an easy, quick read, I read it in a day. I would have preferred it being shorter, with less trauma drama. The exes seemed healthier than the main characters, which was infuriating, since the focus was obviously not them. The FMC was annoyingly indecisive, causing more drama than necessary if she really did all the work in therapy she claims throughout, it should have been a quick easy reconciling. I loved the premise of this story, the reasons why their marriages failed, and had it been shorter, with less drama, I would have easily rated it five stars.
June 18, 2025
What would you do if your ex's set up a past time romance to seek your happiness? doesn't happen often right?! well with Mackenzie " mac" and Evan they get a second chance at love....
15 years ago they met at med school but distance pulled them apart and they drifted , coincidence their sons attend the same swimming camp and they're united once again fate? hmm...maybe but can these two rekindle true love from 15 years ago? I abs loved this cute read I was kicking my feet and rooting for them the entire time! This book can be so relatable to the real world I loved the authors writing! A perfect summer read! and I so can't wait to read more !!
15 years ago they met at med school but distance pulled them apart and they drifted , coincidence their sons attend the same swimming camp and they're united once again fate? hmm...maybe but can these two rekindle true love from 15 years ago? I abs loved this cute read I was kicking my feet and rooting for them the entire time! This book can be so relatable to the real world I loved the authors writing! A perfect summer read! and I so can't wait to read more !!
June 19, 2025
I believe it's wonderful that their former partners are supporting them to be together.
McKenzie, as a single mother, excels at co-parenting with her son's dad. Evan shares parenting responsibilities with his ex-wife and is a single dad as well.
Mac and Evan's relationship began in medical school, but the distance grew too much when they were placed in different states. Fifteen years later, their sons form friendships at a swimming academy.
Each of their former partners realizes the reasons their relationships failed and knows that they still have feelings of love. What I admire most about Grace and David is their relentless effort to support one another.
McKenzie, as a single mother, excels at co-parenting with her son's dad. Evan shares parenting responsibilities with his ex-wife and is a single dad as well.
Mac and Evan's relationship began in medical school, but the distance grew too much when they were placed in different states. Fifteen years later, their sons form friendships at a swimming academy.
Each of their former partners realizes the reasons their relationships failed and knows that they still have feelings of love. What I admire most about Grace and David is their relentless effort to support one another.
June 25, 2025
3.75⭐️ rounded up to 4 for GR
2.5🌶️
Thank you to D W Brooks & HappilyBookedPR for sending me an ARC🩵
I won’t lie I struggled with this at first, Mac the FMC was really frustrating throughout the first half of the book and really made me want to DNF due to this fact but after speaking to a few other ARC readers, I carried on because I hate DNF’ing books!
Let’s just say I’m so glad I carried on, Mac finally let herself be happy and her & Evan were just insanely perfect together!
Tropes to expect
🌄 Second Chance Romance
🌊 Forced Proximity
🌄 Grumpy/Sunshine
🌊 First Love
🌄 Everyone Can See It
🌊 Found Family
🌄 He Falls First
🌊 Meddling Exes (but in the BEST way)
June 29, 2025
This book truly spoke to me.
It beautifully captured how, as women, we can be stubborn when things don’t go our way or according to our plans—just like Mac. Fifteen years of holding onto that kind of stubbornness? So real.
I was completely captivated by the characters and found myself deeply invested in every chapter, eager to see what would happen next. I especially loved the co-parenting dynamic, how the boys quickly became fast friends, and the meddling exes who lowkey helped push things back together—it was chef’s kiss!
Everything came full circle in such a satisfying way.
I absolutely loved, loved, loved this book!
It beautifully captured how, as women, we can be stubborn when things don’t go our way or according to our plans—just like Mac. Fifteen years of holding onto that kind of stubbornness? So real.
I was completely captivated by the characters and found myself deeply invested in every chapter, eager to see what would happen next. I especially loved the co-parenting dynamic, how the boys quickly became fast friends, and the meddling exes who lowkey helped push things back together—it was chef’s kiss!
Everything came full circle in such a satisfying way.
I absolutely loved, loved, loved this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2025
Late Match is a second chance romance which tells the story if FMC Mackenzie and MMC Evan. Mackenzie and Evan broke up and then spent 15 years apart. Mackenzie is now a guarded single mom who is all in for her son. Evan has never forgotten his first love and is thrilled to have run into Mackenzie again by accident. Evan is a hopeless romantic and determined to rekindle the spark he had with Mackenzie. It was refreshing to read a story where the characters were full-on adults with lives, both present and past, jobs, families, obligations, experience, etc. This was a fun and enjoyable read!
July 3, 2025
MacKenzie and Evan were in medical school together. They were engaged and loved being together, but when they matched to different cities they ended their relationship. They both thought about each other for 15 years and their friends want them to talk so they can proceed to move on.
Randomly, MacKenzie and Evan cross paths at a swim camp and it brings up a lot of old memories and feelings.
I liked the story, but I personally couldn’t imagine pining for someone who broke my heart for 15 years. That doesn’t change my rating or anything. I just thought I would put it out there.
Truly, this second chance romance was worth it and I loved the relationship MacKenzie and Evan have.
Randomly, MacKenzie and Evan cross paths at a swim camp and it brings up a lot of old memories and feelings.
I liked the story, but I personally couldn’t imagine pining for someone who broke my heart for 15 years. That doesn’t change my rating or anything. I just thought I would put it out there.
Truly, this second chance romance was worth it and I loved the relationship MacKenzie and Evan have.
August 2, 2025
A delightful second chance romance featuring two people. I enjoyed this story. I especially loved how the characters were older when they reunited. They had experienced life separately, and seemed better for it when they finally reunited. I also loved how they co parented and that aspect of the story. The author did such a good job with the flow and chemistry of the characters. It also had me hooked to the point I couldn't wait to finish it. I enjoyed this book and can't wait for the author's next book
I received a copy of the book via Happily Booked PR and am voluntarily leaving an honest review of my own thoughts and opinions
I received a copy of the book via Happily Booked PR and am voluntarily leaving an honest review of my own thoughts and opinions
June 17, 2025
So much to say about this sweet book.
Second chance love story between med school sweethearts. The spice was spicing (bus sex anyone?). The feels were feeling. I did struggle a tiny bit with the climax of the story - I felt it was a bit contrived. However, overall, it’s a book I would recommend as a light summer read.
As a side note: I’m a former competitive swimmer, so I’m always very hard on books that include swimming. A lot of times authors get it so wrong, but I was pleasantly surprised at the the accuracy of the swimming parts.
Second chance love story between med school sweethearts. The spice was spicing (bus sex anyone?). The feels were feeling. I did struggle a tiny bit with the climax of the story - I felt it was a bit contrived. However, overall, it’s a book I would recommend as a light summer read.
As a side note: I’m a former competitive swimmer, so I’m always very hard on books that include swimming. A lot of times authors get it so wrong, but I was pleasantly surprised at the the accuracy of the swimming parts.
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