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One Last Night
He's her work nemesis. They're fake dating. What's the worst that could happen? Agnes has run her family's restaurant, The Shark Biscuit, for the last six years, ever since her father's health took a turn and she had to step in to keep the doors open. Now she's crippled with guilt because it's her fault it's closing. One more night and she's free.
After years of squaring off against the infuriating, gruff and arrogant head chef Harrison, she can’t wait to see the back of him. But when her ex-boyfriend brings his entire family in for dinner, hoping to win her back, she begs Harrison for help – pretend to be her boyfriend until her ex leaves.
What she hadn’t planned for was the storm of the century trapping everyone in the restaurant. As the hours pass, Agnes realises Harrison knows her better as a fake boyfriend than her real one ever did. If only they weren’t carrying secrets that could tear each other’s worlds apart…
The hilarious enemies-to-lovers romcom of the year, perfect for fans of Sarah Adams, Meghan Quinn and Beth O'Leary.
After years of squaring off against the infuriating, gruff and arrogant head chef Harrison, she can’t wait to see the back of him. But when her ex-boyfriend brings his entire family in for dinner, hoping to win her back, she begs Harrison for help – pretend to be her boyfriend until her ex leaves.
What she hadn’t planned for was the storm of the century trapping everyone in the restaurant. As the hours pass, Agnes realises Harrison knows her better as a fake boyfriend than her real one ever did. If only they weren’t carrying secrets that could tear each other’s worlds apart…
The hilarious enemies-to-lovers romcom of the year, perfect for fans of Sarah Adams, Meghan Quinn and Beth O'Leary.
312 pages, Paperback
First published January 30, 2025
23 people are currently reading
490 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Ford
2 books45 followersLauren lives in Australia with her husband, two daughters and one overly excitable Sheepadoodle.
Her debut novel, LIV IS NOT A LOSER, is a best-friends-to-lovers romantic comedy about a woman who realises she’s a loser and puts together a ten-step plan to change her life.
Her latest novel, ONE LAST NIGHT, is a contained enemies-to-lovers, fake dating rom-com where a once-in-a-lifetime storm traps the staff overnight at a local seafood restaurant.
Her debut novel, LIV IS NOT A LOSER, is a best-friends-to-lovers romantic comedy about a woman who realises she’s a loser and puts together a ten-step plan to change her life.
Her latest novel, ONE LAST NIGHT, is a contained enemies-to-lovers, fake dating rom-com where a once-in-a-lifetime storm traps the staff overnight at a local seafood restaurant.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
February 12, 2025
4★ ‘For my fellow people pleasers. Take the day off.’
What don’t look at me funny, this was the dedication. Anyways i’m sure i have pulled y’ll attention now so let’s begin.
This is one of those books where you found yourself skeptical to start in the beginning but by the end of it, the romance would ultimately win you over and make you rooting for them. It is hard to trust how in just on night the author would manage to unfold everything be it relationship development, dialogues or storyline and make it believable at the same time, but the way Lauren Ford portrayed everything so beautifully and vivid i am delighted that it worked with me. I have read a similar kind of book which took place in just 24 hours and i adored that book with my whole heart. Tbvh open ending make a story more realistic that the characters has still a long way to go even after the epilogue, there is a different kind of beauty to it.
Main Characters? relatable, likable and cozy
Chemistry and romance? Natural and wholesome
Pacing? Perfect and to the mark
Character development? The transition from bickering buddies to understanding coworkers to intimate fake-couple to lovers with heart-deep connection in just one night, which was to my surprise was genuine and smooth
Side-character? Major highlight, i can’t imagine this book without them. Their dynamics with each other as well as the main character was uplifting into the middle of all the chaos. Found family element was perfectly done.
Overall, this book was everything i could expect from a cute-hilarious rom-com. Didn’t expected to like it this much. It was complex but in a gentle way. Harrison has every trait you could ask in a book boyfriend.
funny? ✓
protective? ✓
make sure to keep you feed? ✓
encourages you to speak your mind? ✓
pushes your buttons when needed? ✓
mature and with good communication skills? ✓
self aware and know what he wants? ✓✓✓
This is my first book of the author and definitely isn’t going to be the last, looking forward to read more of her work in future. Can we get Thomas and Scout’s book please?
If you like well-written heartfelt romance with limited locations and tight time-frames and love to see how a single night can change everything, you should give this book a try.
Tropes:
☞ Forced Proximity
☞ Nemesis at workplace
☞ Boss’s Daughter
☞ One the spot fake-boyfriend to get rid of ex *ahem*
☞ Found family
☞ 24hr timeline
Thank You Lauren Ford, Canelo publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
What don’t look at me funny, this was the dedication. Anyways i’m sure i have pulled y’ll attention now so let’s begin.
‘You love riling me up. I think it’s your secret guilty pleasure.’
‘Not secret and not guilty. Just my pleasure.’
This is one of those books where you found yourself skeptical to start in the beginning but by the end of it, the romance would ultimately win you over and make you rooting for them. It is hard to trust how in just on night the author would manage to unfold everything be it relationship development, dialogues or storyline and make it believable at the same time, but the way Lauren Ford portrayed everything so beautifully and vivid i am delighted that it worked with me. I have read a similar kind of book which took place in just 24 hours and i adored that book with my whole heart. Tbvh open ending make a story more realistic that the characters has still a long way to go even after the epilogue, there is a different kind of beauty to it.
‘You were always in the front of my mind when you weren’t even mine. I can’t imagine anything easier than making you a priority, our life together a priority. I can’t imagine you not being the first thing I think of every day. That’s the easiest part of this.’
Main Characters? relatable, likable and cozy
Chemistry and romance? Natural and wholesome
Pacing? Perfect and to the mark
Character development? The transition from bickering buddies to understanding coworkers to intimate fake-couple to lovers with heart-deep connection in just one night, which was to my surprise was genuine and smooth
Side-character? Major highlight, i can’t imagine this book without them. Their dynamics with each other as well as the main character was uplifting into the middle of all the chaos. Found family element was perfectly done.
‘I don’t think fighting with someone is something you should miss.’
‘It is when fighting with someone is more fun than a conversation with anyone else. It makes you feel alive. We work, Agnes. Even when we’re arguing, we work.’
Overall, this book was everything i could expect from a cute-hilarious rom-com. Didn’t expected to like it this much. It was complex but in a gentle way. Harrison has every trait you could ask in a book boyfriend.
funny? ✓
protective? ✓
make sure to keep you feed? ✓
encourages you to speak your mind? ✓
pushes your buttons when needed? ✓
mature and with good communication skills? ✓
self aware and know what he wants? ✓✓✓
‘Date me, Agnes Keegan. Fall in love with me. If fighting is this much fun, imagine how good it will be loving each other.’
This is my first book of the author and definitely isn’t going to be the last, looking forward to read more of her work in future. Can we get Thomas and Scout’s book please?
If you like well-written heartfelt romance with limited locations and tight time-frames and love to see how a single night can change everything, you should give this book a try.
Tropes:
☞ Forced Proximity
☞ Nemesis at workplace
☞ Boss’s Daughter
☞ One the spot fake-boyfriend to get rid of ex *ahem*
☞ Found family
☞ 24hr timeline
Thank You Lauren Ford, Canelo publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
May 27, 2025
Still five stars and Harrison is perfect 😌
Rereading because I just remembered that this book is awesome.
———-
I can’t get enough of this book, I keep rereading and fangirling over it, it’s so good.
Do you know those contained murder mysteries where all characters are stuck together in one location? Make that a romance, but with one side character asking every now and then if anyone died.
I had my doubts about a love story unfolding in one night, but the unusual circumstances created a perfect background and it all made sense. It was even explained why they had been “enemies” in the first place, which was highly appreciated.
I loved their chemistry, (it’s so hot when a guy is only a fake boyfriend, but acts like a real one 🤤 ) and the way their relationship evolved. It went fast, but a crisis can do that to people, so it didn’t feel rushed.
Another amazing thing was that Agnes was halfway through serving us a third act breakup, but Harrison wasn’t having any of that. 🥹❤️ Yesss!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
———
I absolutely adored this! It was hot, fun and very well written.
RTC
——
Thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for the arc❤️
Rereading because I just remembered that this book is awesome.
———-
I can’t get enough of this book, I keep rereading and fangirling over it, it’s so good.
Do you know those contained murder mysteries where all characters are stuck together in one location? Make that a romance, but with one side character asking every now and then if anyone died.
I had my doubts about a love story unfolding in one night, but the unusual circumstances created a perfect background and it all made sense. It was even explained why they had been “enemies” in the first place, which was highly appreciated.
I loved their chemistry, (it’s so hot when a guy is only a fake boyfriend, but acts like a real one 🤤 ) and the way their relationship evolved. It went fast, but a crisis can do that to people, so it didn’t feel rushed.
Another amazing thing was that Agnes was halfway through serving us a third act breakup, but Harrison wasn’t having any of that. 🥹❤️ Yesss!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
———
I absolutely adored this! It was hot, fun and very well written.
RTC
——
Thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for the arc❤️
March 1, 2025
3.65 ⭐
This was actually a nice surprise. To begin with, everything happens during (like the title states) one last night and I thought it would be rushed and/or not explored in-depth enough but it worked pretty well.
At first, I was really annoyed by the MCs behavior (MMC in his mid-thirties and FMC freshly thirty) especially since they were working together. The beginning was really repetitive with their arguments going absolutely nowhere but when MMC had to start helping FMC with her ex, they came to a sort of truce that made their relationship more bearable, even pleasant with their banter.
I'm actually relieved it happened during that last night and not over the years because I'm not sure that I would have handled well their bickering the whole time to be honest. But they ended up working well together, I liked the chemistry even though it's still hard to judge a relationship on such short period of time.
I'm not familiar with meteorology, but I was really 'annoyed' at the start of the story when the MMC kept saying that a storm was coming (there was an official warning) but the FMC and her father (are they some kind of climate skeptic?) kept ignoring him saying it would be that important. In 2024, I'm pretty sure we have a better forecast accuracy. But okay, let's say we needed that for the plot. Speaking of plot, I enjoyed the 'big revelation', it was a realistic ending.
What I liked the least though, was the comedy side. It mostly came from the side characters (co-worker, special guest 1...) and I found it heavy-handed, between the nosy friends and the pushy one (Scout ?) but that's something that will always bother me in CR.
Special mention to the FMC (I guess from the dedication that she's one of those people pleasers, so I can relate), yeah, in few hours there's no room for a major character growth but loved her last words to her ex mother-in-law!
Tropes
Thanks to NetGalley, Canelo and Lauren Ford for the free copy.
This was actually a nice surprise. To begin with, everything happens during (like the title states) one last night and I thought it would be rushed and/or not explored in-depth enough but it worked pretty well.
At first, I was really annoyed by the MCs behavior (MMC in his mid-thirties and FMC freshly thirty) especially since they were working together. The beginning was really repetitive with their arguments going absolutely nowhere but when MMC had to start helping FMC with her ex, they came to a sort of truce that made their relationship more bearable, even pleasant with their banter.
I'm actually relieved it happened during that last night and not over the years because I'm not sure that I would have handled well their bickering the whole time to be honest. But they ended up working well together, I liked the chemistry even though it's still hard to judge a relationship on such short period of time.
I'm not familiar with meteorology, but I was really 'annoyed' at the start of the story when the MMC kept saying that a storm was coming (there was an official warning) but the FMC and her father (are they some kind of climate skeptic?) kept ignoring him saying it would be that important. In 2024, I'm pretty sure we have a better forecast accuracy. But okay, let's say we needed that for the plot. Speaking of plot, I enjoyed the 'big revelation', it was a realistic ending.
What I liked the least though, was the comedy side. It mostly came from the side characters (co-worker, special guest 1...) and I found it heavy-handed, between the nosy friends and the pushy one (Scout ?) but that's something that will always bother me in CR.
Special mention to the FMC (I guess from the dedication that she's one of those people pleasers, so I can relate), yeah, in few hours there's no room for a major character growth but loved her last words to her ex mother-in-law!
Tropes
Thanks to NetGalley, Canelo and Lauren Ford for the free copy.
November 19, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had so much fun reading this book, I went through all the emotions!
Found family ✅
Enemies to Lovers ( in a way) ✅
Forced proximity ✅
Fake dating ✅
Protective MMC ✅
Strong FMC ✅
The book takes place all in one day in The Shark Biscuit on the last day before it closes forever. Everything that can go wrong, goes wrong. Agnes has a life changing day. She is finally forced to be honest with herself and realizes how lying has complicated things for her. Harrison, the MMC, is there by her side every step of the way. The way he cares for her was beautiful to read. He made sure to care for her in private. He didn't want the praise, he just wanted to make sure she was okay. He made her feel safe and she made him feel safe.
A small little appreciation post for Harrison and the author for including this in the book.
I absolutely loved the banter between Harrison and Agnes. It was written perfectly 🤌
If I could make a request it would be a story written about Scout and Thomas. I need more of this world!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I had so much fun reading this book, I went through all the emotions!
Found family ✅
Enemies to Lovers ( in a way) ✅
Forced proximity ✅
Fake dating ✅
Protective MMC ✅
Strong FMC ✅
The book takes place all in one day in The Shark Biscuit on the last day before it closes forever. Everything that can go wrong, goes wrong. Agnes has a life changing day. She is finally forced to be honest with herself and realizes how lying has complicated things for her. Harrison, the MMC, is there by her side every step of the way. The way he cares for her was beautiful to read. He made sure to care for her in private. He didn't want the praise, he just wanted to make sure she was okay. He made her feel safe and she made him feel safe.
A small little appreciation post for Harrison and the author for including this in the book.
I absolutely loved the banter between Harrison and Agnes. It was written perfectly 🤌
If I could make a request it would be a story written about Scout and Thomas. I need more of this world!
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2025
‘Date me, Agnes Keegan. Fall in love with me. If fighting is this much fun, imagine how good it will be loving each other.’
I love a good enemies to lovers story. I loved watching Agnes and Harrison go from annoying each other to understanding one another, and then falling for each other. All in the span of one wild night.
Traumatic, stressful experiences have a power of peeling away the masks we hide behind, revealing our bare bones. When Agnes' family restaurant floods during their last night of service before closing forever, Harrison and Agnes see each other clearly for the first time in 6 years of working together. We're taken on a journey into their renewed beginning (forced proximity?) and it's so gentle and sweet and touched with a bit of silliness, too.
I loved the cast of characters (with exception to a certain ex-boyfriend and his mum) and the setting by the ocean. I also enjoyed going on a side quest to learn about bug rolls (a kind of lobster roll). And then getting hungry and eating a courgette, because I didn't have any seafood. Maybe I'm getting off track here. Sorry.
In summary, I enjoyed reading this book, so much. ❤
I love a good enemies to lovers story. I loved watching Agnes and Harrison go from annoying each other to understanding one another, and then falling for each other. All in the span of one wild night.
Traumatic, stressful experiences have a power of peeling away the masks we hide behind, revealing our bare bones. When Agnes' family restaurant floods during their last night of service before closing forever, Harrison and Agnes see each other clearly for the first time in 6 years of working together. We're taken on a journey into their renewed beginning (forced proximity?) and it's so gentle and sweet and touched with a bit of silliness, too.
I loved the cast of characters (with exception to a certain ex-boyfriend and his mum) and the setting by the ocean. I also enjoyed going on a side quest to learn about bug rolls (a kind of lobster roll). And then getting hungry and eating a courgette, because I didn't have any seafood. Maybe I'm getting off track here. Sorry.
In summary, I enjoyed reading this book, so much. ❤
August 27, 2025
I enjoyed this one, more than I expected to. And devoured it, in one sitting. I have no regrets.
This book oozes found family. Being true to yourself and not shying away from those tough conversations. Don't even get me started on Harrison. Or his forearms.
Easy to read, fast paced, forced proximity and hilarious side characters. This romance is sweet, funny and wholesome. It didn't need spice to keep it moving, which is refreshing. Was a great way to spend the day. And now I want fish and chips.
This book oozes found family. Being true to yourself and not shying away from those tough conversations. Don't even get me started on Harrison. Or his forearms.
Easy to read, fast paced, forced proximity and hilarious side characters. This romance is sweet, funny and wholesome. It didn't need spice to keep it moving, which is refreshing. Was a great way to spend the day. And now I want fish and chips.
December 11, 2024
3.75🌟
*received as an arc from net-galley* book comes out in 30/1/25
I did not expect to have enjoyed this book as much as i did!!!!!!! Harrison and Agnes were just everything 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭 and the found family with everyone at the restaurant??????????? Ugh im obsessed. This book had me giggling, squealing, tearing up & just feeling so warm all over. Definitely a cosy romance that serves as a great palate cleanser between bigger and more intimidating books.
The book being promoted as enemies to lovers feels inaccurate to me.. i couldn’t even say that they disliked eachother, let alone hate eachother. It was all a big misunderstanding. I loved their back n forth bickering🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣and the way everyone at the restaurant would cackle (me alongside them)
Devin and his mum were… interesting 😭😭😭😭😭😭that definitely caught me off guard and thank God Agnes said bye bye to that!!!
Will Thomas and Scout get a book??? They need to😩the chemistry between those two is insane!!!!
Overall i had a great time reading this book and would recommend to all those looking for a cosy romance that will have you feeling all the emotions!!!!
*received as an arc from net-galley* book comes out in 30/1/25
I did not expect to have enjoyed this book as much as i did!!!!!!! Harrison and Agnes were just everything 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭 and the found family with everyone at the restaurant??????????? Ugh im obsessed. This book had me giggling, squealing, tearing up & just feeling so warm all over. Definitely a cosy romance that serves as a great palate cleanser between bigger and more intimidating books.
The book being promoted as enemies to lovers feels inaccurate to me.. i couldn’t even say that they disliked eachother, let alone hate eachother. It was all a big misunderstanding. I loved their back n forth bickering🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣and the way everyone at the restaurant would cackle (me alongside them)
Devin and his mum were… interesting 😭😭😭😭😭😭that definitely caught me off guard and thank God Agnes said bye bye to that!!!
Will Thomas and Scout get a book??? They need to😩the chemistry between those two is insane!!!!
Overall i had a great time reading this book and would recommend to all those looking for a cosy romance that will have you feeling all the emotions!!!!
March 8, 2025
4.25⭐️
February 16, 2025
Отдавна не бях чела съвременен любовен роман и независимо, че темата за малък семеен ресторант и храна не е нещо, което ме вълнува, всъщност романът беше приятен за четене.
Краят беше една идея твърде захаросан, както и някои елементи също не ми бяха по вкуса, тъй като крещяха политическа коректност, но се посмях доволно и си прекарах добре, четейки книгата, което е единственото нещо, което очаквам, когато посягам към такъв тип книга - да ме забавлява. :)
Краят беше една идея твърде захаросан, както и някои елементи също не ми бяха по вкуса, тъй като крещяха политическа коректност, но се посмях доволно и си прекарах добре, четейки книгата, което е единственото нещо, което очаквам, когато посягам към такъв тип книга - да ме забавлява. :)
November 30, 2024
4+
In a word: delightful!
I recently had a rough week and went on a bit of a romance/Christmas requesting spree on NetGalley, and this is the first of the lot.
Agnes' father's restaurant, The Shark Biscuit is closing, and on their last night, she is struggling with mixed emotions. Guilt at not taking over the restaurant with her father's ailing health and relief that it'll soon be over, and though she probably won't admit it to herself, she's going to miss bickering with head chef Harrison James.
When Agnes' ex boyfriend shows up on closing night with his whole family in tow, trying to win her back, she tells him she and Harrison are dating, to get him to back off. She figures they'll be gone soon enough so she won't have to keep up the charade for very long. But fate has other plans, as she, Harrison, a few other staffers, an elderly couple of regulars, a male stripper named Willy, and Agnes' ex Devin and his mother Barbara get trapped in The Shark Biscuit overnight due to a fierce rain storm. As the storm worsens, threatening to flood the restaurant, tensions inside also rise.
The story really does unfold over the course of under 24 hours, but because Agnes and Harrison have known each other for years, the developments still don't feel rushed, and the heightened emotions due to the storm and it being the last night also help escalate the story in a natural way.
I will say it took me about 15% or so to get into this. I'm not sure what it was exactly, but the beginning felt kind of awkward and stilted. So if you don't love this one immediately, don't give up on it, because it is very sweet and wholesome.
Harrison is my favourite type of romantic hero. The strong, silent type, that's a little grumpy, a little bossy, but will do anything for the people he cares about. A protector, but also playful. Vulnerable and with a sense of humour.
I felt the conflicts mostly made sense, and I can relate to being an introvert and people pleaser like Agnes, and can see how she thought that not telling people the truth and letting them down easy was the kindest thing to do.
Also: Barbara and Devin are *the worst*. But like in a good way. That made my blood boil because I was invested, and incensed on Agnes' behalf. And Scout and Noah are wonderful colour.
In a word: delightful!
I recently had a rough week and went on a bit of a romance/Christmas requesting spree on NetGalley, and this is the first of the lot.
Agnes' father's restaurant, The Shark Biscuit is closing, and on their last night, she is struggling with mixed emotions. Guilt at not taking over the restaurant with her father's ailing health and relief that it'll soon be over, and though she probably won't admit it to herself, she's going to miss bickering with head chef Harrison James.
When Agnes' ex boyfriend shows up on closing night with his whole family in tow, trying to win her back, she tells him she and Harrison are dating, to get him to back off. She figures they'll be gone soon enough so she won't have to keep up the charade for very long. But fate has other plans, as she, Harrison, a few other staffers, an elderly couple of regulars, a male stripper named Willy, and Agnes' ex Devin and his mother Barbara get trapped in The Shark Biscuit overnight due to a fierce rain storm. As the storm worsens, threatening to flood the restaurant, tensions inside also rise.
The story really does unfold over the course of under 24 hours, but because Agnes and Harrison have known each other for years, the developments still don't feel rushed, and the heightened emotions due to the storm and it being the last night also help escalate the story in a natural way.
I will say it took me about 15% or so to get into this. I'm not sure what it was exactly, but the beginning felt kind of awkward and stilted. So if you don't love this one immediately, don't give up on it, because it is very sweet and wholesome.
Harrison is my favourite type of romantic hero. The strong, silent type, that's a little grumpy, a little bossy, but will do anything for the people he cares about. A protector, but also playful. Vulnerable and with a sense of humour.
I felt the conflicts mostly made sense, and I can relate to being an introvert and people pleaser like Agnes, and can see how she thought that not telling people the truth and letting them down easy was the kindest thing to do.
Also: Barbara and Devin are *the worst*. But like in a good way. That made my blood boil because I was invested, and incensed on Agnes' behalf. And Scout and Noah are wonderful colour.
November 28, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review:
I liked reading this book quite a bit!! I found it super engaging and it was fun that everything literally happens overnight and then we get a nice epilogue.
The FMC and MMC were awesome with their banter. I liked the enemies to lovers trope, one of my favourites, and I enjoyed how easy it transitioned from one to another. I felt the side characters were all hilarious. I felt they definitely did add quality to the story. The plot was great and I liked that I could picture myself in this restaurant.
The only negatives were there were repetitive aspects in relation to the FMC and the foreshadowing for conversations was quite juvenile in relation to the writing. The character growth from the FMC didn't seem like it was fulfilled either. She understood she was trying to make people like her and lying by omission, realized it, but then couldn't fully understand again and continued doing it.
Overall though, I liked this!! Cute, and romantic read! Limited spice, but it's described well!
I liked reading this book quite a bit!! I found it super engaging and it was fun that everything literally happens overnight and then we get a nice epilogue.
The FMC and MMC were awesome with their banter. I liked the enemies to lovers trope, one of my favourites, and I enjoyed how easy it transitioned from one to another. I felt the side characters were all hilarious. I felt they definitely did add quality to the story. The plot was great and I liked that I could picture myself in this restaurant.
The only negatives were there were repetitive aspects in relation to the FMC and the foreshadowing for conversations was quite juvenile in relation to the writing. The character growth from the FMC didn't seem like it was fulfilled either. She understood she was trying to make people like her and lying by omission, realized it, but then couldn't fully understand again and continued doing it.
Overall though, I liked this!! Cute, and romantic read! Limited spice, but it's described well!
November 9, 2024
Lo disfruté. Fue una lectura algo diferente, ya que, como su nombre lo indica, todos los sucesos ocurren en una sola noche.
Es la última noche en que el restaurante del padre de Agnes estará en funcionamiento. Todos los trabajadores están muy tristes, pero la única que lo ve como una liberación, una forma de quitarse las "esposas", es Agnes, aunque no puede expresarlo por miedo a herir los sentimientos de su padre.
Esa noche ocurrirán muchas cosas: aclarará malentendidos con el chef Harrison, recibirá la visita de su ex, se enfrentará a alguien, cerrará un capítulo de su vida, le dará una oportunidad al amor, dirá muchas verdades y, al final, será lo mejor que le podría haber pasado.
El único pero que le pongo es que ocurren tantas cosas entre el último capítulo y el epílogo que dan ganas de que haya un segundo libro o, al menos, una pequeña novela.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Es la última noche en que el restaurante del padre de Agnes estará en funcionamiento. Todos los trabajadores están muy tristes, pero la única que lo ve como una liberación, una forma de quitarse las "esposas", es Agnes, aunque no puede expresarlo por miedo a herir los sentimientos de su padre.
Esa noche ocurrirán muchas cosas: aclarará malentendidos con el chef Harrison, recibirá la visita de su ex, se enfrentará a alguien, cerrará un capítulo de su vida, le dará una oportunidad al amor, dirá muchas verdades y, al final, será lo mejor que le podría haber pasado.
El único pero que le pongo es que ocurren tantas cosas entre el último capítulo y el epílogo que dan ganas de que haya un segundo libro o, al menos, una pequeña novela.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2024
This book crept up on me. I thought ‘oh this will be cute’ but found myself loving every minute of it. High stakes since this all happens in one night that will never end between enemies-to-lovers and it’s a hit. I could NOT put this book down and now that the night is over, I am finding myself disappointed there isn’t more time. Highly recommend this book!
March 16, 2025
Head 3 ⭐️ Heart 4 star ⭐️
January 30, 2025
Damn I loved every second of this one. Lauren has written the most charming, gorgeous romcom with everything you could ask for.
✅️ Banter and wit galore
✅️ Found family
✅️ Charming Aussie setting
✅️ Forced proximity
✅️ Fake dating
✅️ Swoon in buckets
There is one last night before Agnes' restaurant closes down for good. She is racked with guilt. To make matters worse, her annoying ex shows up with his meddling mother. Then a rain bomb forces them all to stay there for the night. Stuck! So what is Agnes to do? Obviously fake date the hot chef who she has fought with for the last six years.
I was honestly so intrigued how this could all be in one night. But it worked so well. Harrison was the perfect MMC. I won't give too much away but he knew Agnes so well and was such a contrast to her icky ex. Adored everything about it!
✅️ Banter and wit galore
✅️ Found family
✅️ Charming Aussie setting
✅️ Forced proximity
✅️ Fake dating
✅️ Swoon in buckets
There is one last night before Agnes' restaurant closes down for good. She is racked with guilt. To make matters worse, her annoying ex shows up with his meddling mother. Then a rain bomb forces them all to stay there for the night. Stuck! So what is Agnes to do? Obviously fake date the hot chef who she has fought with for the last six years.
I was honestly so intrigued how this could all be in one night. But it worked so well. Harrison was the perfect MMC. I won't give too much away but he knew Agnes so well and was such a contrast to her icky ex. Adored everything about it!
December 9, 2024
Aggie has already lost too much to her family seafood restaurant, The Shark Biscuit. So when her ailing father decides to close it for good, Aggie is secretly relieved, counting down the hours until she can finally move on. But what should have been a straightforward final night turns into absolute chaos. As if managing guilt, entertaining regulars, and pretending to be heartbroken over the restaurant’s closure weren’t hard enough, her overbearing ex and his family show up uninvited.
To get her ex off her back, Aggie blurts out that she’s dating someone else now. One little lie snowballs into another, leading to a series of laugh-out-loud mishaps that force her to rope in her head chef—and nemesis—Harrison James as her fake boyfriend until her ex and his family leave if only to get through the last night without any more troubles. But that was clearly too much to ask as a freaky rain storm hits, flooding the roads, trapping then all inside. Together.
My thoughts:-
I wasn’t sure how the author would manage to develop a believable romance in under 24 hours, but Lauren Ford handled it brilliantly. The pacing was spot-on, and the chemistry between Aggie and Harrison felt natural and authentic. Aggie was incredibly relatable with her people-pleasing tendencies and her difficulty setting boundaries, even when it led to trouble. Harrison was a standout—smart, soft, and just the right amount of grumpy (a perfect mix, if you ask me).
The side characters added so much charm, especially Noah, who absolutely stole the spotlight. The storm created the perfect setting to force these personalities together, and the way everything tied up at the end felt incredibly satisfying. I couldn’t stop cheering when Aggie finally spoke up for herself and put her ex and his mother firmly in their place—it was such a rewarding moment.
What I loved most was how honest and open Aggie and Harrison were with each other. Watching them communicate so well and navigate their feelings like adults was a refreshing change, and it made their relationship all the more enjoyable to root for. The cozy, tight-knit community surrounding The Shark Biscuit was written so vividly that I couldn’t help but wish it were a real place I could visit.
Overall, I had such a great time with this story and will definitely keep an eye out for more of Lauren Ford’s work.
*Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy in exchange for an honest review.*
To get her ex off her back, Aggie blurts out that she’s dating someone else now. One little lie snowballs into another, leading to a series of laugh-out-loud mishaps that force her to rope in her head chef—and nemesis—Harrison James as her fake boyfriend until her ex and his family leave if only to get through the last night without any more troubles. But that was clearly too much to ask as a freaky rain storm hits, flooding the roads, trapping then all inside. Together.
My thoughts:-
I wasn’t sure how the author would manage to develop a believable romance in under 24 hours, but Lauren Ford handled it brilliantly. The pacing was spot-on, and the chemistry between Aggie and Harrison felt natural and authentic. Aggie was incredibly relatable with her people-pleasing tendencies and her difficulty setting boundaries, even when it led to trouble. Harrison was a standout—smart, soft, and just the right amount of grumpy (a perfect mix, if you ask me).
The side characters added so much charm, especially Noah, who absolutely stole the spotlight. The storm created the perfect setting to force these personalities together, and the way everything tied up at the end felt incredibly satisfying. I couldn’t stop cheering when Aggie finally spoke up for herself and put her ex and his mother firmly in their place—it was such a rewarding moment.
What I loved most was how honest and open Aggie and Harrison were with each other. Watching them communicate so well and navigate their feelings like adults was a refreshing change, and it made their relationship all the more enjoyable to root for. The cozy, tight-knit community surrounding The Shark Biscuit was written so vividly that I couldn’t help but wish it were a real place I could visit.
Overall, I had such a great time with this story and will definitely keep an eye out for more of Lauren Ford’s work.
*Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with a digital copy in exchange for an honest review.*
April 8, 2025
I loved this story! I loved the characters, I loved the setting, I loved the drama and I loved the ending.
Harrison and Aggie have worked together for 6 years in Aggie's father's fish restaurant but now the restaurant is closing and this is their final night. But by nightfall the storm of the century rolls in and anyone who hasn't already made it out of the restaurant is now here for the night - including Aggie's ex, Devin, and his mother.
Devin and his family booked a table at the restaurant but his family didn't know him and Aggie had broken up 4 months earlier. He thought it was just Aggie having issues (because mummy told him that Aggie was at fault, not him) and that they would be back together soon enough so Aggie decides to invent a new relationship - Harrison.
Telling Devin that she's now dating Harrison puts them all in an awkward position when they're forced to endure the storm together in the restaurant. Aggie goes out of her way to be nice to Devin and his mum but they're complete dicks back to her, even though Devin is the one that created the situation in the first place.
Of course, Harrison is happy to help Aggie out and as the night wears on they start to learn a lot about each other. Even though they've been at each other's throats constantly for the past 6 years, they both find a kind of safety and enjoyment in being able to be themselves with the other person. So it's an easy step to take to move into something more.
But for Aggie, this is a one night thing. The restaurant is closed and she doesn't want anything more to do with it, it's already taken so much from her over the years that no matter how good this thing with Harrison could be, she can't risk being put in another situation where she loses what she loves to the business.
I do wish Aggie had actually stood up to Devin's mum and told her they had broken up months before and that it was Devin that chose to pretend it hadn't happened but then again, I'm not sure she would have taken much notice - her son could do no wrong.
Thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Harrison and Aggie have worked together for 6 years in Aggie's father's fish restaurant but now the restaurant is closing and this is their final night. But by nightfall the storm of the century rolls in and anyone who hasn't already made it out of the restaurant is now here for the night - including Aggie's ex, Devin, and his mother.
Devin and his family booked a table at the restaurant but his family didn't know him and Aggie had broken up 4 months earlier. He thought it was just Aggie having issues (because mummy told him that Aggie was at fault, not him) and that they would be back together soon enough so Aggie decides to invent a new relationship - Harrison.
Telling Devin that she's now dating Harrison puts them all in an awkward position when they're forced to endure the storm together in the restaurant. Aggie goes out of her way to be nice to Devin and his mum but they're complete dicks back to her, even though Devin is the one that created the situation in the first place.
Of course, Harrison is happy to help Aggie out and as the night wears on they start to learn a lot about each other. Even though they've been at each other's throats constantly for the past 6 years, they both find a kind of safety and enjoyment in being able to be themselves with the other person. So it's an easy step to take to move into something more.
But for Aggie, this is a one night thing. The restaurant is closed and she doesn't want anything more to do with it, it's already taken so much from her over the years that no matter how good this thing with Harrison could be, she can't risk being put in another situation where she loses what she loves to the business.
I do wish Aggie had actually stood up to Devin's mum and told her they had broken up months before and that it was Devin that chose to pretend it hadn't happened but then again, I'm not sure she would have taken much notice - her son could do no wrong.
Thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
November 18, 2024
This is the first book I have read by Lauren Ford and it DID NOT DISAPPOINT!
Agnes has been running her dad’s restaurant, The Shark Biscuit for the last 6 years. Now that it’s closing for good, she has mixed feelings. She feels like it’s her fault it’s closing, and is just ready for this night to be over! When her ex-boyfriend shows up with his crazy manipulating family and acts like they’re still a couple, Agnes asks the stubborn chef, Harrison to pretend to be her boyfriend for the night. She has no idea how long a night can truly be until a freak storm barricades them all inside The Shark Biscuit until morning.
“One Last Night” was seriously one of the best romance books I’ve read in awhile! Who wouldn’t love to see the soft side to a grumpy, argumentative chef named Harrison?! The romance was open door style, but done in a very tasteful way without being too descriptive.
I think the author actually accomplished a huge feat creating this entire story that happens in the span of about 12 hours. Not once was I bored or felt as if the story was taking too long. It’s definitely a slow burn, but it was fun watching Agnes and Harrison make her emotionally abusive ex-boyfriend jealous. The banter between Agnes and Harrison was always entertaining. I especially loved Harrison’s nickname for Devin, and Agnes’ final parting words to Barbara, Devin’s mother.
This was a very lighthearted read. There is minimal talk of aging parents and the loss of a parent. It’s done in such a way that it serves as a good memory instead of the book taking on a sad aspect.
Definitely check this one out! I rate this book as 5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for my honest unbiased opinion.
Agnes has been running her dad’s restaurant, The Shark Biscuit for the last 6 years. Now that it’s closing for good, she has mixed feelings. She feels like it’s her fault it’s closing, and is just ready for this night to be over! When her ex-boyfriend shows up with his crazy manipulating family and acts like they’re still a couple, Agnes asks the stubborn chef, Harrison to pretend to be her boyfriend for the night. She has no idea how long a night can truly be until a freak storm barricades them all inside The Shark Biscuit until morning.
“One Last Night” was seriously one of the best romance books I’ve read in awhile! Who wouldn’t love to see the soft side to a grumpy, argumentative chef named Harrison?! The romance was open door style, but done in a very tasteful way without being too descriptive.
I think the author actually accomplished a huge feat creating this entire story that happens in the span of about 12 hours. Not once was I bored or felt as if the story was taking too long. It’s definitely a slow burn, but it was fun watching Agnes and Harrison make her emotionally abusive ex-boyfriend jealous. The banter between Agnes and Harrison was always entertaining. I especially loved Harrison’s nickname for Devin, and Agnes’ final parting words to Barbara, Devin’s mother.
This was a very lighthearted read. There is minimal talk of aging parents and the loss of a parent. It’s done in such a way that it serves as a good memory instead of the book taking on a sad aspect.
Definitely check this one out! I rate this book as 5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for my honest unbiased opinion.
November 12, 2024
Was delighted to have the chance of reading this story prior to its release date in January 2025.
I loved the premise of the book, as I love a good Enemies to Lovers story, and it did not disappoint. The main characters were so well written, and was very swoon worthy in parts and I couldn't stay away from the story for too long as I needed to know where it would lead to next. Also enjoyed the various levels of banter between the various characters throughout.
Agnes runs her Dad's restaurant, but unfortunately it is about to close and she cannot wait, but at the same time is crippling herself with guilt, as it her actions as to why it is closing. She is happy though as this means she doesn't have to work with her arch-nemesis Harrison.
But it is during the course of this 'last night', that events take a turn. Agnes ex-boyfriend turns up unexpectedly in the hope he might win her back, and so she inadvertently gets Harrison to help out with this predicament until he leaves. On top of this, the weather then takes a turn for the worse, leaving everybody stranded at the restaurant, including Agnes's ex-boyfriend, and it is through a series of events that continue well into the night, that she realises maybe she has misunderstood Harrison in more ways than one.
A good read, particularly if you are not a fan of spice, as it is fairly minimal in this story.
❤️Enemies to Lovers
❤️Slow Burn
❤️Fake Relationship
❤️Work Colleagues
❤️Story from FMC POV
❤️Small Town
❤️Close Proximity
This is the first book I have read by Lauren Ford and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
I loved the premise of the book, as I love a good Enemies to Lovers story, and it did not disappoint. The main characters were so well written, and was very swoon worthy in parts and I couldn't stay away from the story for too long as I needed to know where it would lead to next. Also enjoyed the various levels of banter between the various characters throughout.
Agnes runs her Dad's restaurant, but unfortunately it is about to close and she cannot wait, but at the same time is crippling herself with guilt, as it her actions as to why it is closing. She is happy though as this means she doesn't have to work with her arch-nemesis Harrison.
But it is during the course of this 'last night', that events take a turn. Agnes ex-boyfriend turns up unexpectedly in the hope he might win her back, and so she inadvertently gets Harrison to help out with this predicament until he leaves. On top of this, the weather then takes a turn for the worse, leaving everybody stranded at the restaurant, including Agnes's ex-boyfriend, and it is through a series of events that continue well into the night, that she realises maybe she has misunderstood Harrison in more ways than one.
A good read, particularly if you are not a fan of spice, as it is fairly minimal in this story.
❤️Enemies to Lovers
❤️Slow Burn
❤️Fake Relationship
❤️Work Colleagues
❤️Story from FMC POV
❤️Small Town
❤️Close Proximity
This is the first book I have read by Lauren Ford and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
November 16, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for providing this book, with my honest review below.
One Last Night was an adorable story that appealed to me namely due to the focus on a local restaurant and its locked room nature. Set on the coast we are there to witness The Shark Biscuit, a local and long running restaurant’s last night as a storm hits, stranding the patrons and staff inside. This could easily sound like it was going to thriller territory, but this is actually a sweet romance whose mysteries centered on what our main characters were hiding from each other or running away from, but in terms of emotions and wholesome secrets.
Agnes is the daughter of the current owner who had run the restaurant for eons with his wife, before she passed, when illness strikes him and he can’t keep up. Agnes would be happier talking to no strangers ever (a point that is stressed a bit too much) who doesn’t want the restaurant. During her last night running things, Harrison, the chef and her nemesis, seems to be hiding something from her given some of his passive aggressive comments. What better way to get to the heart of the matter than with a massive storm that locks these two inside, along with a few other staff and patrons, including Agnes’s ex and his scary mother? The cast of characters really created the fun for me, as we strangers and random characteristics drop in as the storm intensifies. Always sweet and sometimes serious, this is brain candy at its finest.
One Last Night was an adorable story that appealed to me namely due to the focus on a local restaurant and its locked room nature. Set on the coast we are there to witness The Shark Biscuit, a local and long running restaurant’s last night as a storm hits, stranding the patrons and staff inside. This could easily sound like it was going to thriller territory, but this is actually a sweet romance whose mysteries centered on what our main characters were hiding from each other or running away from, but in terms of emotions and wholesome secrets.
Agnes is the daughter of the current owner who had run the restaurant for eons with his wife, before she passed, when illness strikes him and he can’t keep up. Agnes would be happier talking to no strangers ever (a point that is stressed a bit too much) who doesn’t want the restaurant. During her last night running things, Harrison, the chef and her nemesis, seems to be hiding something from her given some of his passive aggressive comments. What better way to get to the heart of the matter than with a massive storm that locks these two inside, along with a few other staff and patrons, including Agnes’s ex and his scary mother? The cast of characters really created the fun for me, as we strangers and random characteristics drop in as the storm intensifies. Always sweet and sometimes serious, this is brain candy at its finest.
January 5, 2025
One Last Night follows Agnes, a woman juggling guilt and responsibility as she closes her family’s restaurant, The Shark Biscuit, after six tough years of running it. Her work nemesis, the grumpy and arrogant head chef Harrison, has been a thorn in her side the whole time. But when Agnes’s ex-boyfriend shows up hoping to rekindle their romance, she ropes Harrison into pretending to be her boyfriend. A raging storm traps everyone in the restaurant, forcing Agnes and Harrison to confront their feelings—and their secrets—over the course of one unforgettable night.
At first, I found the constant bickering between Agnes and Harrison a bit tiring, but the romance ultimately won me over. What surprised me most was how well the story unfolded in just one night. The pacing was perfect, and the characters’ relationship felt genuine as they moved from irritation to understanding, and finally, to something deeper. Their chemistry grew naturally, and I couldn’t help but root for them by the end.
I also loved the found-family dynamic among the restaurant staff, which added warmth to the story. Agnes’s struggles as an introverted people pleaser were relatable, especially her instinct to avoid confrontation by hiding the truth. The conflicts in the book felt realistic and added depth to the characters. Overall, One Last Night is a heartfelt and well-written romance that proves a single evening can change everything.
At first, I found the constant bickering between Agnes and Harrison a bit tiring, but the romance ultimately won me over. What surprised me most was how well the story unfolded in just one night. The pacing was perfect, and the characters’ relationship felt genuine as they moved from irritation to understanding, and finally, to something deeper. Their chemistry grew naturally, and I couldn’t help but root for them by the end.
I also loved the found-family dynamic among the restaurant staff, which added warmth to the story. Agnes’s struggles as an introverted people pleaser were relatable, especially her instinct to avoid confrontation by hiding the truth. The conflicts in the book felt realistic and added depth to the characters. Overall, One Last Night is a heartfelt and well-written romance that proves a single evening can change everything.
November 22, 2024
This is my first Lauren Ford novel and I really enjoyed it. Even though the book is called One Last Night, I didn't realize that it would take place during one night until about a quarter of the way through the book. It was a style I hadn't experienced before and I liked it. It worked in many places and I had to take a leap of faith with the author in a few others.
Harrison and Agnes have worked together in her Dad's restaurant for 6 years and tonight is the last night before it closes. They are not necessarily enemies, more coworkers with a complicated relationship. Not friends, but a lot of forced proximity before the story starts.
As they close down the restaurant they have to figure out how to say goodbye to their jobs, the locals, and each other. However, the last night at the restaurant is a comedy of errors everything that can go wrong does and it's comical to watch the characters grow and adapt so quickly. It's emotional overload and they are forced to breakdown some barriers. The night also has the feeling of a Supper Party with guests that you might not have picked, which I really enjoyed the closeness.
This was a fun romantic comedy with many of my favorite tropes. Thank you to NetGallery for the advanced copy. I'm looking forward to reading more of Lauren Ford's works.
Harrison and Agnes have worked together in her Dad's restaurant for 6 years and tonight is the last night before it closes. They are not necessarily enemies, more coworkers with a complicated relationship. Not friends, but a lot of forced proximity before the story starts.
As they close down the restaurant they have to figure out how to say goodbye to their jobs, the locals, and each other. However, the last night at the restaurant is a comedy of errors everything that can go wrong does and it's comical to watch the characters grow and adapt so quickly. It's emotional overload and they are forced to breakdown some barriers. The night also has the feeling of a Supper Party with guests that you might not have picked, which I really enjoyed the closeness.
This was a fun romantic comedy with many of my favorite tropes. Thank you to NetGallery for the advanced copy. I'm looking forward to reading more of Lauren Ford's works.
December 10, 2024
This was my first read by Lauren Ford and what a nice discovery !
Agnes and Harrison hate each other... or so they thing. He is the chef of her father's restaurant, and they can't spend a day without bickering.
Harrison is such a nice guy, cute, protective. A good person.
Agnes... is a bit annoying, not being able to speak out for herself in front of Devin and Barbara (those two... awful people). It lasted a bit to long for my liking but the romance and all the other secondary characters made up for it.
I don't know why but, reading the summary, I hadn't realised that the whole book would take place in one and only day (and night). It's quite unusual but wasn't unpleasant, even if I am not into insta-love and part of the romance seems to be more or less that : as there is only one POV, you can't really know how he feels about her (and appart from her liking his forearms, she never "thinks" that she is attracted to him or has some kind of feelings for him).
Still this books deserves 4 stars because I really loved Harrison, the Whalleys and Scout. The Shark Biscuit is so much more than a restaurant with workers and customers. It'a family and they all care for each other. It's so heartwarming, perfect for a winter read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Canelo Romance for providing an eARC in exchange for a honest review.
Agnes and Harrison hate each other... or so they thing. He is the chef of her father's restaurant, and they can't spend a day without bickering.
Harrison is such a nice guy, cute, protective. A good person.
Agnes... is a bit annoying, not being able to speak out for herself in front of Devin and Barbara (those two... awful people). It lasted a bit to long for my liking but the romance and all the other secondary characters made up for it.
I don't know why but, reading the summary, I hadn't realised that the whole book would take place in one and only day (and night). It's quite unusual but wasn't unpleasant, even if I am not into insta-love and part of the romance seems to be more or less that : as there is only one POV, you can't really know how he feels about her (and appart from her liking his forearms, she never "thinks" that she is attracted to him or has some kind of feelings for him).
Still this books deserves 4 stars because I really loved Harrison, the Whalleys and Scout. The Shark Biscuit is so much more than a restaurant with workers and customers. It'a family and they all care for each other. It's so heartwarming, perfect for a winter read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Canelo Romance for providing an eARC in exchange for a honest review.
February 13, 2025
Agnes’s family restaurant is closing, and she can’t wait to flip the “Closed” sign for the final time. After her mother’s passing, her father became completely consumed by the restaurant, leaving Agnes to essentially raise herself. When her father hires Harrison as their new chef, he overhears a snide remark she makes—and just like that, the two are locked in a years-long battle of mutual dislike.
But when a massive storm hits, trapping them inside with a colorful mix of people—including a sassy bartender, a quirky young chef, her bitter ex-boyfriend, his disapproving mother, and an elderly couple who have been regulars for years—things take a chaotic turn. To throw off her ex’s persistent advances, Agnes claims she’s seeing someone new… and names Harrison as her fake boyfriend.
As the storm rages on, Agnes finds herself juggling her ex’s attention, clapping back at his overbearing mother, and trying to keep the restaurant from quite literally washing away. With Harrison by her side, they manage to keep the restaurant intact—and maybe, just maybe, discover a spark between them neither is willing to admit.
I enjoyed this book; while it’s not a favorite, it was a quick read with some fun moments and a few good laughs.
Thank you to NetGalley for this free advanced copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
But when a massive storm hits, trapping them inside with a colorful mix of people—including a sassy bartender, a quirky young chef, her bitter ex-boyfriend, his disapproving mother, and an elderly couple who have been regulars for years—things take a chaotic turn. To throw off her ex’s persistent advances, Agnes claims she’s seeing someone new… and names Harrison as her fake boyfriend.
As the storm rages on, Agnes finds herself juggling her ex’s attention, clapping back at his overbearing mother, and trying to keep the restaurant from quite literally washing away. With Harrison by her side, they manage to keep the restaurant intact—and maybe, just maybe, discover a spark between them neither is willing to admit.
I enjoyed this book; while it’s not a favorite, it was a quick read with some fun moments and a few good laughs.
Thank you to NetGalley for this free advanced copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 17, 2025
He's her work nemesis. They're fake dating. What's the worst that could happen?
That's the sentence what got me interested in this book. I love fake dating trope.
The book takes place all in one day in The Shark Biscuit on the last day before it closes forever. And everything you can imagine goes wrong.
At first I was annoyed with Agnes. Her actions and how she delt with her ex Devin made me mad. I am not a people pleaser, so it was hard to imagine someone acting like that.
But here comes Harrison. Maybe not by choice at first, but he steps in to help Agnes. He is silent, grumpy type and Agnes and he has some old misunderstanding going on between them. Because of that they always fight and bicker. I loved the banter and I loved chemistry between them. I loved how they slowly opened up to each other and how their relationship changed.
I also loved side characters and their close family-like interactions. They all made the story fun.
~~~
‘I don’t think fighting with someone is something you should miss.’
‘It is when fighting with someone is more fun than a conversation with anyone else. It makes you feel alive. We work, Agnes. Even when we’re arguing, we work.’
~~~
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
That's the sentence what got me interested in this book. I love fake dating trope.
The book takes place all in one day in The Shark Biscuit on the last day before it closes forever. And everything you can imagine goes wrong.
At first I was annoyed with Agnes. Her actions and how she delt with her ex Devin made me mad. I am not a people pleaser, so it was hard to imagine someone acting like that.
But here comes Harrison. Maybe not by choice at first, but he steps in to help Agnes. He is silent, grumpy type and Agnes and he has some old misunderstanding going on between them. Because of that they always fight and bicker. I loved the banter and I loved chemistry between them. I loved how they slowly opened up to each other and how their relationship changed.
I also loved side characters and their close family-like interactions. They all made the story fun.
~~~
‘I don’t think fighting with someone is something you should miss.’
‘It is when fighting with someone is more fun than a conversation with anyone else. It makes you feel alive. We work, Agnes. Even when we’re arguing, we work.’
~~~
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2025
“One Last Night” by Lauren Ford is an excellent easy read for romance lovers.
This story is about a night in the life of Agnes & Harrison, our protagonists who together run Agnes' family restaurant - where she is the manager, and he is the head chef.
It is a true enemies to lovers where although I had my doubts at the beginning (as the story takes place in a single night) at the end all the events and conflicts that took place were correctly displayed and without plot problems.
One thing to note was the side-characters, which gave more intrigue and laughter to the plot than expected, I cannot express the number of times I found myself laughing at something one of the side-characters said or did. Some of them were loveable and friendly, and others made me want to stop reading at that moment - but overall, this book was a super enjoyable and fun read, ideal for a relaxing evening.
‘Date me, Agnes Keegan. Fall in love with me. If fighting is this much fun, imagine how good it will be loving each other.’ <3
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and the author for this ARC, this has not affected my rating and oppinions of the book
#OneLastNight #NetGalley.
This story is about a night in the life of Agnes & Harrison, our protagonists who together run Agnes' family restaurant - where she is the manager, and he is the head chef.
It is a true enemies to lovers where although I had my doubts at the beginning (as the story takes place in a single night) at the end all the events and conflicts that took place were correctly displayed and without plot problems.
One thing to note was the side-characters, which gave more intrigue and laughter to the plot than expected, I cannot express the number of times I found myself laughing at something one of the side-characters said or did. Some of them were loveable and friendly, and others made me want to stop reading at that moment - but overall, this book was a super enjoyable and fun read, ideal for a relaxing evening.
‘Date me, Agnes Keegan. Fall in love with me. If fighting is this much fun, imagine how good it will be loving each other.’ <3
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and the author for this ARC, this has not affected my rating and oppinions of the book
#OneLastNight #NetGalley.
November 9, 2024
I would like to thank Netgalley and Canelo for providing me with an advanced readers copy to review.
I never usually enjoy stories that span over a short time frame because you don't get a real feel for the characters but I feel that in this case it worked perfectly. It's the last night before The Shark Biscuit closes for good and the way that the characters all make the most of the dilemmas that come their way and banter and playfulness really kept the story engaging for me.
While I would have loved to see Harrison and Agnes' dynamic over the days, months or even years that they worked together leading up until the time this book starts it isn't necessary and I feel that Lauren Ford kept the story engaging and allowed in enough of their dynamic to allow the story to unfold like it does.
I was giggling with these characters, crying with them and to some I wanted to yell at them. It was a quick and enjoyable read. There is hate to love, queer side charaters, drunkeness and plenty of banter.
I never usually enjoy stories that span over a short time frame because you don't get a real feel for the characters but I feel that in this case it worked perfectly. It's the last night before The Shark Biscuit closes for good and the way that the characters all make the most of the dilemmas that come their way and banter and playfulness really kept the story engaging for me.
While I would have loved to see Harrison and Agnes' dynamic over the days, months or even years that they worked together leading up until the time this book starts it isn't necessary and I feel that Lauren Ford kept the story engaging and allowed in enough of their dynamic to allow the story to unfold like it does.
I was giggling with these characters, crying with them and to some I wanted to yell at them. It was a quick and enjoyable read. There is hate to love, queer side charaters, drunkeness and plenty of banter.
January 29, 2025
An enemies-to-lovers romance set within a single night...perfect for those who love a quick-paced "will-they-or-won't-they" type of love!
Harrison and Agnes together are like a live wire; when they connect, the result could either be fireworks or they both get burned. Faced with the last day of her family's restaurant, Agnes is set to let everything go- the building, the bug rolls, and Harrison. They both hate each other...or so she thought.
My favorite part of this fake-dating-my-enemy scenario is that, without even realizing it, Agnes always had someone in her corner. Harrison would stick up for her and always knew what she was going to say/do even before she did it. Once she realized this, it was like the inevitable happened. And the angst?? Harrison's declaration at the end?? Fighting for what he wants?? Agnes finally seeing what was always in front of her?? Finally giving in?? #goals
Together in a book that spans only a matter of hours, forcing all characters to stay within close proximity to each other, sprinkle in an annoying/jealous ex (and his obnoxious mother), add in a lot of alcohol & crazy decisions = you have one great romance book!
Harrison and Agnes together are like a live wire; when they connect, the result could either be fireworks or they both get burned. Faced with the last day of her family's restaurant, Agnes is set to let everything go- the building, the bug rolls, and Harrison. They both hate each other...or so she thought.
My favorite part of this fake-dating-my-enemy scenario is that, without even realizing it, Agnes always had someone in her corner. Harrison would stick up for her and always knew what she was going to say/do even before she did it. Once she realized this, it was like the inevitable happened. And the angst?? Harrison's declaration at the end?? Fighting for what he wants?? Agnes finally seeing what was always in front of her?? Finally giving in?? #goals
Together in a book that spans only a matter of hours, forcing all characters to stay within close proximity to each other, sprinkle in an annoying/jealous ex (and his obnoxious mother), add in a lot of alcohol & crazy decisions = you have one great romance book!
January 29, 2025
Everything goes wrong on the last night the family business is open. Agnes does not want to take over her family restaurant and it’s set to close. On the final night, a freak storm traps some of their customers, including a couple of favourites, Agnes’s ex-boyfriend and his mom and a few members of the staff at the restaurant. A fake relationship with the head chef, Harrison, is thrown into the mix and soon Agnes realizes that maybe all the fighting the two of them do is simply passion, not hatred. A quick romance ensues and a lot of emotions are processed in a short period of time. It was a super fast read, with lots of funny bits and community of support around the main characters.
I really enjoyed this one. Even though it could read as insta-love, it’s clear that the 6 years the two main characters have spent together is the real reason their love story is believable.
4 stars for taking some big feelings and processing them in a different way in a unique setting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for the arc!
I really enjoyed this one. Even though it could read as insta-love, it’s clear that the 6 years the two main characters have spent together is the real reason their love story is believable.
4 stars for taking some big feelings and processing them in a different way in a unique setting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for the arc!
May 14, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for providing the ARC.
I really enjoyed this book! It has a lot of heart in its simplicity and the characters are a delight. I loved seeing Aggie come into her own as she spent the night averting crisis after crisis while dealing with the emotional blackmail coming from her ex and his unbearable family. Harrison being just the steadfast support she needed while also quietly and not so quietly fighting for her in all the ways that matter. This book was so fantastic at showing these two that they really do belong together.
I loved that this book also wasn't a case of instant love or unrequited pining on either of their parts. I loved that it was a realistic coming together for their relationship and that they just made sense. Too often readers are asked to suspend disbelief when it comes to love stories, in that many characters fall in love in a matter of hours. But this had just the right amount of connection and zing to make it believable but it didn't force someone being in love after a single night.
Excellent book and highly recommended.
I really enjoyed this book! It has a lot of heart in its simplicity and the characters are a delight. I loved seeing Aggie come into her own as she spent the night averting crisis after crisis while dealing with the emotional blackmail coming from her ex and his unbearable family. Harrison being just the steadfast support she needed while also quietly and not so quietly fighting for her in all the ways that matter. This book was so fantastic at showing these two that they really do belong together.
I loved that this book also wasn't a case of instant love or unrequited pining on either of their parts. I loved that it was a realistic coming together for their relationship and that they just made sense. Too often readers are asked to suspend disbelief when it comes to love stories, in that many characters fall in love in a matter of hours. But this had just the right amount of connection and zing to make it believable but it didn't force someone being in love after a single night.
Excellent book and highly recommended.
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