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Carolina Current #1
Beyond the Stroke: Carolina Current Book 1
SUMMER
After years on the road, I’ve discovered Coral Cove is the perfect beach town to live a quiet, untethered life where I can paint in the shadows. That is until a mermaid cosplay goes horribly wrong and Rory Shields, world champion swimmer and the town’s golden boy plucks me out of a sticky situation.
Our chance encounter soon develops into a surprising friendship, and the more I learn about Rory, the more I find myself feeling protective over this charming golden retriever of a man. So, when his meddling parents and relentless ex won’t leave him alone, I announce that we’re not only dating, but married.
My parents’ miserable marriage taught me to never say ‘I do’ but knowing the guise will help Rory focus on training, I agree to follow through with the ruse.
But the more we play husband and wife, the harder it becomes to keep the lines from blurring. And before I know it, I’m treading water in the deep end and falling for my fake husband.
RORY
After rehabbing a knee injury that almost ended my swimming career, I’ve returned to Coral Cove, home of the Carolina Current swimming club, determined to focus on training and preparing for the next summer games. But not everyone in my life is on board with my plans for another run for gold.
My parents and ex-girlfriend have a different plan for my life. Until Summer, the intriguing woman I pulled out of the ocean, announces we’re married and I realize being tied to the gorgeous, free-spirited woman is the perfect solution to keep my parents off my back.
What starts out as a marriage of convenience quickly turns into something much deeper, and suddenly I’m fighting for a future I never saw coming. But Summer doesn’t believe in marriage and happily ever after, so how can I convince her we’re meant to last?
After years on the road, I’ve discovered Coral Cove is the perfect beach town to live a quiet, untethered life where I can paint in the shadows. That is until a mermaid cosplay goes horribly wrong and Rory Shields, world champion swimmer and the town’s golden boy plucks me out of a sticky situation.
Our chance encounter soon develops into a surprising friendship, and the more I learn about Rory, the more I find myself feeling protective over this charming golden retriever of a man. So, when his meddling parents and relentless ex won’t leave him alone, I announce that we’re not only dating, but married.
My parents’ miserable marriage taught me to never say ‘I do’ but knowing the guise will help Rory focus on training, I agree to follow through with the ruse.
But the more we play husband and wife, the harder it becomes to keep the lines from blurring. And before I know it, I’m treading water in the deep end and falling for my fake husband.
RORY
After rehabbing a knee injury that almost ended my swimming career, I’ve returned to Coral Cove, home of the Carolina Current swimming club, determined to focus on training and preparing for the next summer games. But not everyone in my life is on board with my plans for another run for gold.
My parents and ex-girlfriend have a different plan for my life. Until Summer, the intriguing woman I pulled out of the ocean, announces we’re married and I realize being tied to the gorgeous, free-spirited woman is the perfect solution to keep my parents off my back.
What starts out as a marriage of convenience quickly turns into something much deeper, and suddenly I’m fighting for a future I never saw coming. But Summer doesn’t believe in marriage and happily ever after, so how can I convince her we’re meant to last?
448 pages, Paperback
Published May 26, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 361 reviews
June 6, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up
Some of my favorite micro-tropes were in this book so I had to round it up. It’s a cute and fairly low angst read with the angst that is present coming from their internal thoughts/fears/hang-ups. Because of my mood I could nitpick some points but also because of my mood, I’ve been taking forever to read and this story flew by pretty quickly. I’d definitely count this in the W column. I grinned a lot, enjoyed the steamy factor, and both mains were engaging.
Written in first person, dual POV. No om drama, brief ow drama given that the H’s parents are trying to force him back in a relationship with his ex who the h only sees for a second at a dinner with her hand on the H’s arm before the h announces they’re married (before they are). Both are experienced, however the h had only been with her toxic ex who told her she was bad in bed (she had orgasms after him, just not with another person). The H didn’t seem like he got around and it’d been a bit since he broke up with his ex.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Golden retriever MMC x black cat FMC
☆ “My wife”
☆ “Good boy”
☆ Marriage of convenience after knowing each other like a week
☆ Olympic-level athlete (swimmer)
☆ She’s new to town and he’s the golden boy
☆ Both have toxic parents
☆ Adorable pup
☆ Internal angst of not wanting more
☆ But fairly low on the angst overall
☆ Supportive friends for both
☆ She has some secrets that last most of the book (not bad ones)
Summer (h) is new to this coastal town. She travels around in her RV with her dog, never settling for too long. She’s waitressing, dog walking, and painting (as an anonymous artist that was a cool concept by the author). Rory (H) is a swimmer who’s gone to the Olympics multiple times, is mostly recovered following an injury, and is trying to only focus on his swimming, despite his parents trying to push him along in his career and life plans. These two have a unique kind of meet-cute and then Rory sort of gently, but emphatically, pushes past Summer’s mile high walls to wriggle into her trust and friendship. He’s protective, caring, giving, and a total sweetheart. Which balances nicely against her general grumpiness and those aforementioned walls.
I loved them together with Summer’s occasional snark, Rory’s focus on her (he has some fantastic lines and ways he shows that she’s what he wants), and how even though they end up married far too quickly (seriously, I couldn’t stop thinking about how crazy it was to let a person you barely know have access to everything just like that), their glide into love felt believable and natural. Same with the dive into physical intimacy. At first there are rules about no sex and, as you can imagine, the rules get broken eventually. In a really excellent way. Although there was the use of an object that again, my brain was throwing up some extra questions and cautions lol.
I did wish that both of them weren’t quite so repetitive in their internal conflicts about not wanting more or, in Summer’s case, over the incorrect lessons she learned from her parents and her ex. I also felt like Rory needed more growth when it came to standing up and having the hard conversations. He never legit has it out with his parents, which was a disappointment. There’s an early scene and then they’re in a later one, but he never truly takes them to task for their behaviors and actions. Even another swimmer that he has a beef with, when he does sort of confront him, it lacked something for me. Rory's a golden retriever sure, yet I still wanted him to use his words in a stronger way in these kinds of contexts.
Rory’s friend group had some good highlights, with some moments that earned a head tilt. I’m not 100% sold on the future stories that were set up pretty obviously. A couple of the guys seem to have slept around, potentially while their future love interests were also part of the larger group, though no hints of any pining on the women’s parts thankfully. A couple moments with the guys were awkward (waxing of a delicate area was a choice, as was the casual nudity but I've never been in an athletic locker room) and then Rory does have a frustrating older brother moment that leads into the next book in the series. Summer’s friends (her bestie that we see via text, an old man she befriends, and then the women she meets through Rory’s group) were pretty solid and less quirky I'd say.
Overall, cute moments abound and there is an ease to the story with no third act breakup. Summer’s art was incorporated in a cool way and I loved that there was an extra oomph related to that in the epilogue, showing them in their HEA with not much of a jump ahead. It's clear they'll be side characters as the series continues though. The second epilogue was a little frustrating as that lead in to the next one mentioned above. I am curious about one of the guys in particular that was mentioned as being the gentleman of the group so I’ll read blurbs and reviews as the series releases. I do think some friends will enjoy this as a not deep, entertaining summer kind of read.
Some of my favorite micro-tropes were in this book so I had to round it up. It’s a cute and fairly low angst read with the angst that is present coming from their internal thoughts/fears/hang-ups. Because of my mood I could nitpick some points but also because of my mood, I’ve been taking forever to read and this story flew by pretty quickly. I’d definitely count this in the W column. I grinned a lot, enjoyed the steamy factor, and both mains were engaging.
Written in first person, dual POV. No om drama, brief ow drama given that the H’s parents are trying to force him back in a relationship with his ex who the h only sees for a second at a dinner with her hand on the H’s arm before the h announces they’re married (before they are). Both are experienced, however the h had only been with her toxic ex who told her she was bad in bed (she had orgasms after him, just not with another person). The H didn’t seem like he got around and it’d been a bit since he broke up with his ex.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Golden retriever MMC x black cat FMC
☆ “My wife”
☆ “Good boy”
☆ Marriage of convenience after knowing each other like a week
☆ Olympic-level athlete (swimmer)
☆ She’s new to town and he’s the golden boy
☆ Both have toxic parents
☆ Adorable pup
☆ Internal angst of not wanting more
☆ But fairly low on the angst overall
☆ Supportive friends for both
☆ She has some secrets that last most of the book (not bad ones)
Summer (h) is new to this coastal town. She travels around in her RV with her dog, never settling for too long. She’s waitressing, dog walking, and painting (as an anonymous artist that was a cool concept by the author). Rory (H) is a swimmer who’s gone to the Olympics multiple times, is mostly recovered following an injury, and is trying to only focus on his swimming, despite his parents trying to push him along in his career and life plans. These two have a unique kind of meet-cute and then Rory sort of gently, but emphatically, pushes past Summer’s mile high walls to wriggle into her trust and friendship. He’s protective, caring, giving, and a total sweetheart. Which balances nicely against her general grumpiness and those aforementioned walls.
I loved them together with Summer’s occasional snark, Rory’s focus on her (he has some fantastic lines and ways he shows that she’s what he wants), and how even though they end up married far too quickly (seriously, I couldn’t stop thinking about how crazy it was to let a person you barely know have access to everything just like that), their glide into love felt believable and natural. Same with the dive into physical intimacy. At first there are rules about no sex and, as you can imagine, the rules get broken eventually. In a really excellent way. Although there was the use of an object that again, my brain was throwing up some extra questions and cautions lol.
I did wish that both of them weren’t quite so repetitive in their internal conflicts about not wanting more or, in Summer’s case, over the incorrect lessons she learned from her parents and her ex. I also felt like Rory needed more growth when it came to standing up and having the hard conversations. He never legit has it out with his parents, which was a disappointment. There’s an early scene and then they’re in a later one, but he never truly takes them to task for their behaviors and actions. Even another swimmer that he has a beef with, when he does sort of confront him, it lacked something for me. Rory's a golden retriever sure, yet I still wanted him to use his words in a stronger way in these kinds of contexts.
Rory’s friend group had some good highlights, with some moments that earned a head tilt. I’m not 100% sold on the future stories that were set up pretty obviously. A couple of the guys seem to have slept around, potentially while their future love interests were also part of the larger group, though no hints of any pining on the women’s parts thankfully. A couple moments with the guys were awkward (waxing of a delicate area was a choice, as was the casual nudity but I've never been in an athletic locker room) and then Rory does have a frustrating older brother moment that leads into the next book in the series. Summer’s friends (her bestie that we see via text, an old man she befriends, and then the women she meets through Rory’s group) were pretty solid and less quirky I'd say.
Overall, cute moments abound and there is an ease to the story with no third act breakup. Summer’s art was incorporated in a cool way and I loved that there was an extra oomph related to that in the epilogue, showing them in their HEA with not much of a jump ahead. It's clear they'll be side characters as the series continues though. The second epilogue was a little frustrating as that lead in to the next one mentioned above. I am curious about one of the guys in particular that was mentioned as being the gentleman of the group so I’ll read blurbs and reviews as the series releases. I do think some friends will enjoy this as a not deep, entertaining summer kind of read.
May 26, 2026
I read this because there was a promise of no third-act breakup. And hallelujah! There was no third-act breakup! 🎉🥰
Unfortunately, there wasn’t much of anything else, actually… The FMC was annoying and made no sense. She had a dog, and I get that she loved that dog, but she decided to remove the dog’s tooth because it was uncomfortable instead of buying herself lifesaving medication. I mean, that’s taking the whole dog-mom thing to the next level, and I just can’t.
Also, her obsession with pickles was weird. If I ate that many pickles, I’d get myself a pregnancy test to go with them.
The MMC was very sweet and perfect and basically a walking green flag. One who kept stalking her like a walking red flag. His reasoning for getting married was flimsy at best. He got married so his parents would stop trying to set him up. Dude, a fake girlfriend would’ve been more than enough! Or, I dunno, maybe an honest conversation?
It was a cute book, but I had to suspend my disbelief too many times, and it was too surface-level to give it more than three stars.
———
Someone said no third-act breakup and it was all I needed to know.
Unfortunately, there wasn’t much of anything else, actually… The FMC was annoying and made no sense. She had a dog, and I get that she loved that dog, but she decided to remove the dog’s tooth because it was uncomfortable instead of buying herself lifesaving medication. I mean, that’s taking the whole dog-mom thing to the next level, and I just can’t.
Also, her obsession with pickles was weird. If I ate that many pickles, I’d get myself a pregnancy test to go with them.
The MMC was very sweet and perfect and basically a walking green flag. One who kept stalking her like a walking red flag. His reasoning for getting married was flimsy at best. He got married so his parents would stop trying to set him up. Dude, a fake girlfriend would’ve been more than enough! Or, I dunno, maybe an honest conversation?
It was a cute book, but I had to suspend my disbelief too many times, and it was too surface-level to give it more than three stars.
———
Someone said no third-act breakup and it was all I needed to know.
August 7, 2025
This was a refreshing take on a sports romance and a marriage of convenience!
Now, swimming isn't a sport we read all the time in romance, and that made this so fun and unique. I also liked that Summer lived in a renovated van at the beginning of the book and is a bit of a starving artist, though in a previous life, she was an heiress to a company along the lines of Little Debbie. Haha! A Snack Cake Princess, if you will.
But now she's on her own and in need of a leg up, but she has also been living a semi-nomadic lifestyle and hasn't really found any place to fully settle down at. Until she gets rescued by a professional swimmer, while playing a mermaid at a birthday party. Yup, it's as weird and fun as it sounds.
Enter Rory, an Olympic Swimmer who, from the moment he meets Summer, as he sweeps her out of the ocean, he can't get enough. He is hooked on her. And he won't stop checking in on her, looking out for her and being a bit of a nuisance. But when Summer has an asthma attack and can't afford a new inhaler, he offers a solution. Marriage.
It'll provide her with insurance and get his parents off his back about marriage. What could go wrong?
I adored these two sweet people. They made me smile and they were so supportive of one another. This was a delightful little story.
It was narrated in the dual style by Lucy Rivers and Alex Knox. This was definitely worth the listen.
4 Stars
3 on the spice scale
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title*
Now, swimming isn't a sport we read all the time in romance, and that made this so fun and unique. I also liked that Summer lived in a renovated van at the beginning of the book and is a bit of a starving artist, though in a previous life, she was an heiress to a company along the lines of Little Debbie. Haha! A Snack Cake Princess, if you will.
But now she's on her own and in need of a leg up, but she has also been living a semi-nomadic lifestyle and hasn't really found any place to fully settle down at. Until she gets rescued by a professional swimmer, while playing a mermaid at a birthday party. Yup, it's as weird and fun as it sounds.
Enter Rory, an Olympic Swimmer who, from the moment he meets Summer, as he sweeps her out of the ocean, he can't get enough. He is hooked on her. And he won't stop checking in on her, looking out for her and being a bit of a nuisance. But when Summer has an asthma attack and can't afford a new inhaler, he offers a solution. Marriage.
It'll provide her with insurance and get his parents off his back about marriage. What could go wrong?
I adored these two sweet people. They made me smile and they were so supportive of one another. This was a delightful little story.
It was narrated in the dual style by Lucy Rivers and Alex Knox. This was definitely worth the listen.
4 Stars
3 on the spice scale
*Thank you to Must Love Audio and the author for an ALC of this title*
November 24, 2025
“Nothing was fake tonight, Summer. I don’t have to fake it with you.”
NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP
NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP
NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP
that's it. that's the review.
lmao I wish
4.5 stars
A marriage of convenience, small town romance, athletic (aka Olympian) MMC and artistic FMC, a pug, some super spicy spice (we're talking paint brushes where paint brushes don't belong, pickle-shaped vibrators, and "good boys"), and this exceeded my expectations!
“This is silly. I don’t need to be comforted.”
“That’s why you’re clinging to me like a baby koala?”
“This isn’t clinging. I’m simply existing on top of you.”
“Mmhmm. Whatever you say, wife.”
So this wasn’t technically a sports romance, but our guy is an Olympic swimmer recovering from an injury and debating his future. Our FMC is an artist who is sort of running from her life by travelling and living in her little camper van with her pug.
After coming in my pants last night, there’s no point in playing it cool. Besides, I like telling Summer exactly how much she affects me. I want her to know how badly I want her. How desperate I am for her. She deserves to know.
I dunno why I thought this was closed door, but lmao it was not, and I was living for the spice, like it was so good, so well written!
“You’re not just the artist of those paintings, Summer. You’re the masterpiece.”
Like, hello?? Swoon.
There was definitely a setup for a set of standalones in this series, and I’m interested in continuing it when they’re released!
Thank you so much to Pen Pal PR and the author for this amazing PR Box!
My hand slides to the back of his head, loving the feeling of his hair running between each finger before I scissor them together and give a light tug.
A muffled whimper slips past Rory’s lips. It’s raw and unguarded, the same way I felt a moment ago when I’d pulled his hair.
NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP
NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP
NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP
that's it. that's the review.
lmao I wish
4.5 stars
A marriage of convenience, small town romance, athletic (aka Olympian) MMC and artistic FMC, a pug, some super spicy spice (we're talking paint brushes where paint brushes don't belong, pickle-shaped vibrators, and "good boys"), and this exceeded my expectations!
“This is silly. I don’t need to be comforted.”
“That’s why you’re clinging to me like a baby koala?”
“This isn’t clinging. I’m simply existing on top of you.”
“Mmhmm. Whatever you say, wife.”
So this wasn’t technically a sports romance, but our guy is an Olympic swimmer recovering from an injury and debating his future. Our FMC is an artist who is sort of running from her life by travelling and living in her little camper van with her pug.
After coming in my pants last night, there’s no point in playing it cool. Besides, I like telling Summer exactly how much she affects me. I want her to know how badly I want her. How desperate I am for her. She deserves to know.
I dunno why I thought this was closed door, but lmao it was not, and I was living for the spice, like it was so good, so well written!
“You’re not just the artist of those paintings, Summer. You’re the masterpiece.”
Like, hello?? Swoon.
There was definitely a setup for a set of standalones in this series, and I’m interested in continuing it when they’re released!
Thank you so much to Pen Pal PR and the author for this amazing PR Box!
My hand slides to the back of his head, loving the feeling of his hair running between each finger before I scissor them together and give a light tug.
A muffled whimper slips past Rory’s lips. It’s raw and unguarded, the same way I felt a moment ago when I’d pulled his hair.
Read
June 5, 2025I'm sure this will work for someone else.
Ngl, I was excited because of the golden retriever x black cat trope. But idk, it just didn't work for me.
Rory (34) was nice overall, but his personality comes off mostly as pushy. I get that he’s trying to be helpful, but the way it came across didn’t really sit right with me. I can't explain it other than the fact that he likes to force himself into a situation where clearly Summer doesn't want him around. Idk if this is supposed to be swoony that nothing deters him. But there's definitely something about the storytelling that portrays him as a good guy, but underneath it all, he's really a controlling person who always gets what he wants, no matter the cost. It's just the impression I got. 🤷♀️
Summer (26?) didn't make it any better. The thing with grumpy people is, despite the exterior, they can actually be really nice. But sometimes they're just plain jerks and there's nothing we can do about it. Unfortunately, she was the latter. She's stubborn, rude, mean, and a bitch for most of this book. She has a lot of personal issues and is closed-off due to her parents and her ex. I have to be honest that she was the main reason why I didn't enjoy this book. I almost DNF'd this one because I just couldn't take her attitude anymore. It was not entertaining, and it was so goddamn hard to sympathize with her. Even after all that time she spent with Rory, her attitude didn't really change much. Yeah, she toned down the bitchiness, but still, ugh. She was still dealing with her baggage almost until the end, and by the time she finally moved on from it, I had already mentally checked out of the story.
I really wish I could say I enjoyed this, but sadly, it just didn't work for me. I did hope for the best, though, I finished it after all. Anyway, while this is not for me, I'm sure some readers would find this more up their alley.
Book info:
- Small town
- Instant attraction
- Age gap
- Marriage of convenience
- Secret identity
- Golden retriever x Black cat
- No cheating, OM/OW, separation
- No V (celibacy: h - 4 yrs, H - mos??)
- Open door spice
- Slooowburn
- HEA (they're still married so...)
Notes:
〰️ OW. His ex did message/call him in the beginning of the book. But in reality she only appeared once, and that's basically it. I thought she was going to cause some drama, but that didn't really happen.
〰️ It wasn't really clear when exactly he broke up with her. At first, he said it had been over a year, but then he told Summer that he actually ended things with the OW just six months ago. I’m not really sure what the truth is. 🤷♀️
〰️ No V. There's no info on Rory's past, so Idk his reputation. The only mention of a relationship was his ex. However, this story follows the cliché (which I find annoying) of Summer having only been with one guy who damaged her self-confidence and never gave her any O. So she decided not to deal with men anymore, which means 4 years of celibacy in the present time. 🫠
Ngl, I was excited because of the golden retriever x black cat trope. But idk, it just didn't work for me.
Rory (34) was nice overall, but his personality comes off mostly as pushy. I get that he’s trying to be helpful, but the way it came across didn’t really sit right with me. I can't explain it other than the fact that he likes to force himself into a situation where clearly Summer doesn't want him around. Idk if this is supposed to be swoony that nothing deters him. But there's definitely something about the storytelling that portrays him as a good guy, but underneath it all, he's really a controlling person who always gets what he wants, no matter the cost. It's just the impression I got. 🤷♀️
Summer (26?) didn't make it any better. The thing with grumpy people is, despite the exterior, they can actually be really nice. But sometimes they're just plain jerks and there's nothing we can do about it. Unfortunately, she was the latter. She's stubborn, rude, mean, and a bitch for most of this book. She has a lot of personal issues and is closed-off due to her parents and her ex. I have to be honest that she was the main reason why I didn't enjoy this book. I almost DNF'd this one because I just couldn't take her attitude anymore. It was not entertaining, and it was so goddamn hard to sympathize with her. Even after all that time she spent with Rory, her attitude didn't really change much. Yeah, she toned down the bitchiness, but still, ugh. She was still dealing with her baggage almost until the end, and by the time she finally moved on from it, I had already mentally checked out of the story.
I really wish I could say I enjoyed this, but sadly, it just didn't work for me. I did hope for the best, though, I finished it after all. Anyway, while this is not for me, I'm sure some readers would find this more up their alley.
Book info:
- Small town
- Instant attraction
- Age gap
- Marriage of convenience
- Secret identity
- Golden retriever x Black cat
- No cheating, OM/OW, separation
- No V (celibacy: h - 4 yrs, H - mos??)
- Open door spice
- Slooowburn
- HEA (they're still married so...)
Notes:
〰️ OW. His ex did message/call him in the beginning of the book. But in reality she only appeared once, and that's basically it. I thought she was going to cause some drama, but that didn't really happen.
〰️ It wasn't really clear when exactly he broke up with her. At first, he said it had been over a year, but then he told Summer that he actually ended things with the OW just six months ago. I’m not really sure what the truth is. 🤷♀️
〰️ No V. There's no info on Rory's past, so Idk his reputation. The only mention of a relationship was his ex. However, this story follows the cliché (which I find annoying) of Summer having only been with one guy who damaged her self-confidence and never gave her any O. So she decided not to deal with men anymore, which means 4 years of celibacy in the present time. 🫠
May 24, 2025
Beyond The Stroke by Erin Hawkins 🌊
I can only hope to find a golden retriever man like Rory for myself! This book was so much fun. I loved the setting, I loved the characters, I loved the set up for what I know will be an amazing series to come.
Rory is a professional and Olympic level swimmer who is recovering from a knee injury. He's determined to remain focused on his training ahead of competition season despite the pressure from others that it might be time for him to retire. Summer is new to the small coastal town of Coral Cove and been picking up odd jobs to make money. That includes the hilarious meet cute between Summer and Rory where she attempts to play a mermaid for a child's birthday party, ends up struggling to swim to shore in the mermaid tail, and Rory jumping in to save her. A friendship ends up forming between them although the effort to maintain it comes more from Rory than Summer. She's reluctant to let herself get close to anyone after being used to being on her own with only her dog Edgar. When Rory learns Summer hasn't been able to keep her asthma prescription due to costs, he proposes they get married so she can benefit from her insurance and he can avoid pressure from his parents to get back with his ex-girlfriend. Of course they make the agreement that the marriage is going to remain platonic, but it almost seems too easy for how well they get along and the attraction between them.
I loved how Summer and Rory brought out the best of each other. Rory did everything he could to make sure Summer could trust him. All the little actions he did and words he said were so perfect. He was so understanding of her and Summer returned the sentiment being so understanding of his swimming career. It was one of those books that had so many little moments that I could talk about but you need to experience them yourself. From sweet ones (setting up a painting studio for her) to spicy ones (he comes in his pants ifykyk).
🌤️ grumpy (her) / sunshine (him)
🦮 golden retriever mmc
🏊 professional swimmer
🐾 includes a dog
💍 marriage of convenience
🤍 age gap (8 years, he’s older)
👏🏼 no third act breakup
dual POV
5/5 stars ⭐️
2/5 spice level 🌶️
I can only hope to find a golden retriever man like Rory for myself! This book was so much fun. I loved the setting, I loved the characters, I loved the set up for what I know will be an amazing series to come.
Rory is a professional and Olympic level swimmer who is recovering from a knee injury. He's determined to remain focused on his training ahead of competition season despite the pressure from others that it might be time for him to retire. Summer is new to the small coastal town of Coral Cove and been picking up odd jobs to make money. That includes the hilarious meet cute between Summer and Rory where she attempts to play a mermaid for a child's birthday party, ends up struggling to swim to shore in the mermaid tail, and Rory jumping in to save her. A friendship ends up forming between them although the effort to maintain it comes more from Rory than Summer. She's reluctant to let herself get close to anyone after being used to being on her own with only her dog Edgar. When Rory learns Summer hasn't been able to keep her asthma prescription due to costs, he proposes they get married so she can benefit from her insurance and he can avoid pressure from his parents to get back with his ex-girlfriend. Of course they make the agreement that the marriage is going to remain platonic, but it almost seems too easy for how well they get along and the attraction between them.
I loved how Summer and Rory brought out the best of each other. Rory did everything he could to make sure Summer could trust him. All the little actions he did and words he said were so perfect. He was so understanding of her and Summer returned the sentiment being so understanding of his swimming career. It was one of those books that had so many little moments that I could talk about but you need to experience them yourself. From sweet ones (setting up a painting studio for her) to spicy ones (he comes in his pants ifykyk).
🌤️ grumpy (her) / sunshine (him)
🦮 golden retriever mmc
🏊 professional swimmer
🐾 includes a dog
💍 marriage of convenience
🤍 age gap (8 years, he’s older)
👏🏼 no third act breakup
dual POV
5/5 stars ⭐️
2/5 spice level 🌶️
August 2, 2025
This is everything I want in a summer romance, it’s sunny, swoony, and full of heart. Narrated by Lucy Rivers & Alex Knox, the audiobook brings Summer and Rory’s love story to life with warmth, charm, and just the right emotional pull. The marriage of convenience setup unfolds in a breezy beach town, with an artist heroine and a golden retriever energy swimmer hero who completely stole my heart. Rory and Summer are the classic black cat/golden retriever pairing, and their meet cute is as unique as it is adorable. If you’re looking for a feel good listen with chemistry, character, and coastal vibes—this one delivers.
September 24, 2025
2.5/5⭐️
August 8, 2025
Beyond the Stroke #1 Carolina Current
3✨
3✨
May 19, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Once I googled men’s Olympic swimmers and could get Michael Phelps out of my head… I was into it.
A swimmer MMC was a first for me.
This is a fun summer beachy read.
I always give good props for being something I haven’t read the same plot/characters before a thousand times.
Rory & Summer ☀️
Swimmer x artist
Golden retriever x black cat
Adorable pug
Complicated parents
Marriage of convenience
“My wife”
Banter
Asthma rep
Beach town
“Secret identity”
This is my first book from this author but I’m down to read the next book in the series.
Arc review ✨
Once I googled men’s Olympic swimmers and could get Michael Phelps out of my head… I was into it.
A swimmer MMC was a first for me.
This is a fun summer beachy read.
I always give good props for being something I haven’t read the same plot/characters before a thousand times.
Rory & Summer ☀️
Swimmer x artist
Golden retriever x black cat
Adorable pug
Complicated parents
Marriage of convenience
“My wife”
Banter
Asthma rep
Beach town
“Secret identity”
This is my first book from this author but I’m down to read the next book in the series.
Arc review ✨
August 2, 2025
Summer and Rory’s story kicks off with a hilarious mermaid cosplay rescue, and from that moment, Rory is the ultimate golden retriever. He's sweet, loyal, and impossible not to love. Summer’s fiercely independent, but Rory's charm slowly breaks through her walls.
When his pushy parents get too involved, Summer blurts out that they’re married. One fake marriage later, they're spending more time together, and pretending gets complicated as real feelings emerge.
Lucy Rivers and Alex Knox perfectly capture their chemistry and banter. Their voices complemented each other so well which made this an even more enjoyable listen!
This was a fun, feel good listen. It's equal parts hilarious and heartwarming. Highly recommend!
When his pushy parents get too involved, Summer blurts out that they’re married. One fake marriage later, they're spending more time together, and pretending gets complicated as real feelings emerge.
Lucy Rivers and Alex Knox perfectly capture their chemistry and banter. Their voices complemented each other so well which made this an even more enjoyable listen!
This was a fun, feel good listen. It's equal parts hilarious and heartwarming. Highly recommend!
July 24, 2025
Thank you MLA for the #gifted alc
🗓️Aug 4
🎧Lucy Rivers & Alex Knox
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙒𝙞𝙡𝙙𝙛𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧, 𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚.”
Expect 👉🏼 Olympic Swimmer, Meet Cute Rescue, Dog Lover, Marriage of Convenience, Hidden Talents, Age Gap, Forced Proximity, Black Cat/Golden Retriever
Summer and Rory seem to be living in opposite worlds, but after a daring rescue and an unlikely friendship, they find themselves thrown together in an attempt to keep his parents out of his love life. Summer doesn’t believe in marriage but for her friend, she will make an exception. But the more time they spend together and the more secrets that are uncovered, the less fake everything feels.
I flew through this book. I loved Rory’s sunshine personality and dedication to his sport. But more than that I loved how 1000% in it he was from the moment he met Summer. I enjoyed Summer’s independent spirit and attitude but loved when she eventually caved to Rory. They were wonderful together.
🎧loved it!
🗓️Aug 4
🎧Lucy Rivers & Alex Knox
“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙒𝙞𝙡𝙙𝙛𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧, 𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙪𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚.”
Expect 👉🏼 Olympic Swimmer, Meet Cute Rescue, Dog Lover, Marriage of Convenience, Hidden Talents, Age Gap, Forced Proximity, Black Cat/Golden Retriever
Summer and Rory seem to be living in opposite worlds, but after a daring rescue and an unlikely friendship, they find themselves thrown together in an attempt to keep his parents out of his love life. Summer doesn’t believe in marriage but for her friend, she will make an exception. But the more time they spend together and the more secrets that are uncovered, the less fake everything feels.
I flew through this book. I loved Rory’s sunshine personality and dedication to his sport. But more than that I loved how 1000% in it he was from the moment he met Summer. I enjoyed Summer’s independent spirit and attitude but loved when she eventually caved to Rory. They were wonderful together.
🎧loved it!
May 20, 2025
What an amazing start to a new series. I loved absolutely everything about this book. The book has a ton of great banter that had me cackling out loud while reading. I enjoyed the dynamic between Rory and Summer. How he was so good at seeing her and patient with her. He was possessive, protective and so supportive throughout the entire story. From the meet cute i knew that he would protect her and become a new safe space.
I loved Rory and his personality. In the first chapter I really thought he was going to be a grump, but I was so pleasantly surprised when I learned he was a golden retriever through and through 😍🩷 he was the perfect combination of sweet and down right dirty 🥵
Summer is a strong female character that has made a new life for herself after some traumatic relationships in her past. She is keeping her true self guarded and safe. When she meets and gets to know Rory her wall slowly start to crumble down!
Her energy was very «don’t bother me», but Rory saw her for what she really was. I loved how she tried to push him away, but I totally get why she couldn’t resist the sexy and charming swimmer!!
The forced proximity of this book was amazing. The tension and the absolutely delicious slow burn was chefs kiss 🥰 I loved that the book had a lot of focus on found family and friendships. Rory was an inclusive MMC that always did his best to make sure that Summer felt included.
Tropes
Dual POV
Sports romance / swimmer and artist
Small town
Found family
Marriage of convenience
Golden retriever and black cat
Dirty talk 🥵
Rating 5⭐️
Spice: 1,5 🌶️
Thanks to Pen pal pr and Erin Hawkins for the opportunity to read an Earc
I loved Rory and his personality. In the first chapter I really thought he was going to be a grump, but I was so pleasantly surprised when I learned he was a golden retriever through and through 😍🩷 he was the perfect combination of sweet and down right dirty 🥵
Summer is a strong female character that has made a new life for herself after some traumatic relationships in her past. She is keeping her true self guarded and safe. When she meets and gets to know Rory her wall slowly start to crumble down!
Her energy was very «don’t bother me», but Rory saw her for what she really was. I loved how she tried to push him away, but I totally get why she couldn’t resist the sexy and charming swimmer!!
The forced proximity of this book was amazing. The tension and the absolutely delicious slow burn was chefs kiss 🥰 I loved that the book had a lot of focus on found family and friendships. Rory was an inclusive MMC that always did his best to make sure that Summer felt included.
Tropes
Dual POV
Sports romance / swimmer and artist
Small town
Found family
Marriage of convenience
Golden retriever and black cat
Dirty talk 🥵
Rating 5⭐️
Spice: 1,5 🌶️
Thanks to Pen pal pr and Erin Hawkins for the opportunity to read an Earc
June 7, 2025
Such a cute romance, perfect for summer! Rory is the most golden retriever book boyfriend you'll ever meet, with a little dirty side to him. Summer is a sassy independent woman just trying to make ends meet, while keeping a big secret (or two) about who she is. They end up in a marriage of convenience thats mutually beneficial for both! There's a lot of emotion and drama, abundant tension, so many swoony moments, and the steamy scenes are oh so good!
Tags:
-black cat×golden retriever
-marriage of convenience
-secret identity
-forced proximity
-sports romance (swimming)
Spice: 3/5
First person
Dual POV
Tags:
-black cat×golden retriever
-marriage of convenience
-secret identity
-forced proximity
-sports romance (swimming)
Spice: 3/5
First person
Dual POV
June 8, 2025
4.5 stars
yo, a swimmer guy and a painter girl. one a golden retriever and another a recluse. I mean, it works. It fucking works.
two thumbs up. love the banter. love the fake relationship turn marriage of convenience trope.
also, coming from a country with one of the greatest healthcare system, wtf is wrong with you americans.
yo, a swimmer guy and a painter girl. one a golden retriever and another a recluse. I mean, it works. It fucking works.
two thumbs up. love the banter. love the fake relationship turn marriage of convenience trope.
also, coming from a country with one of the greatest healthcare system, wtf is wrong with you americans.
June 30, 2026
I added this to my DNF list when I hit the 100-page mark. I had confidence in this new series, and I am sure if I'd stuck with it, it gets better.
Summer, the FMC, is so very unlikeable. She's portrayed as this severely independent woman who lives in a van, is an artist, a waitress ... truth of the matter is that she is absolutely MEAN. Her snark isn't adorable, as I think the author intended, it's cringy.
Rory is a pro swimmer and the sweetest guy ... chances are he deserves way better than Summer.
As mentioned, this is probably a promising series, but the FMC absolutely ruined it for me.
Summer, the FMC, is so very unlikeable. She's portrayed as this severely independent woman who lives in a van, is an artist, a waitress ... truth of the matter is that she is absolutely MEAN. Her snark isn't adorable, as I think the author intended, it's cringy.
Rory is a pro swimmer and the sweetest guy ... chances are he deserves way better than Summer.
As mentioned, this is probably a promising series, but the FMC absolutely ruined it for me.
May 26, 2025
Set in the dreamy seaside town of Coral Cove, North Carolina (which I now want to move to—seriously), this romance hits every single trope-lover's sweet spot: fake marriage, marriage of convenience, one bed (!!), found family, and the forever-favorite grump/sunshine and golden retriever/black cat dynamic. And yes, it’s done so right.
Our FMC, Summer, is guarded, witty, emotionally unavailable (by necessity, not choice), and the kind of stubborn that makes you want to wrap her in a blanket and protect her from the world. She walked away from a toxic, high-pressure family life in search of peace and identity, leaving behind wealth, expectations, and people who never really saw her. She’s emotionally scarred, deeply insecure, and yet fiercely devoted to her geriatric pug, Edgar—even if it means sacrificing her own health to care for him. She’s talented, resilient, and aching for a connection she was told she didn’t deserve.
Enter Rory Shields—6'4", sun-kissed Olympic swimmer, golden retriever in human form, and proud owner of a hilarious squirrel phobia. He’s spent his life chasing medals, meeting expectations, and shouldering everyone else’s dreams. But one afternoon, everything changes when he spots a mermaid in distress (I think you can guess who that is). What begins as an “arrangement” gradually becomes something honest and breathtaking—about trust, healing, and falling for someone who finally sees you.
Their banter is top-tier, their chemistry is instant, and the emotional depth? Deeper than the pool Rory trains in. The spice shows up later in the story, but when it does? It’s inventive, primal, and so worth the wait. The slow burn builds into a raging fire that only one Olympic swimmer can extinguish (wink wink).
There’s a lovable, hilarious inner circle, raw vulnerability, and an ending that had me grinning like a total goof. I adored the setting, the pacing, the people—but most of all, the growth. As someone who also wears contacts/glasses and has asthma, I saw so much of myself in Summer. While I may not be an artist, her emotional journey and quiet resilience hit me hard. Watching her fall in love—with herself and Rory—was such a joy.
While there are content warnings for emotional manipulation and strained family dynamics, these themes are handled with care, empathy, and nuance.
Basically? This book is a hug, a breath of fresh air, and a plunge into something unexpectedly beautiful. It’s a vibe. I didn’t want it to end.
This was my first read from Erin Hawkins, and I was blown away by her storytelling and character depth. Despite its 400+ pages, the story flew by—I was completely immersed. Bonus points: I read most of it poolside while on vacation, and let me tell you, the chlorine and splashy ambiance only made the experience better.
Huge thanks to Erin Hawkins and PenPalPR for the opportunity to read this gem. I’m already counting down the days until the next book in the series.
As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Our FMC, Summer, is guarded, witty, emotionally unavailable (by necessity, not choice), and the kind of stubborn that makes you want to wrap her in a blanket and protect her from the world. She walked away from a toxic, high-pressure family life in search of peace and identity, leaving behind wealth, expectations, and people who never really saw her. She’s emotionally scarred, deeply insecure, and yet fiercely devoted to her geriatric pug, Edgar—even if it means sacrificing her own health to care for him. She’s talented, resilient, and aching for a connection she was told she didn’t deserve.
Enter Rory Shields—6'4", sun-kissed Olympic swimmer, golden retriever in human form, and proud owner of a hilarious squirrel phobia. He’s spent his life chasing medals, meeting expectations, and shouldering everyone else’s dreams. But one afternoon, everything changes when he spots a mermaid in distress (I think you can guess who that is). What begins as an “arrangement” gradually becomes something honest and breathtaking—about trust, healing, and falling for someone who finally sees you.
Their banter is top-tier, their chemistry is instant, and the emotional depth? Deeper than the pool Rory trains in. The spice shows up later in the story, but when it does? It’s inventive, primal, and so worth the wait. The slow burn builds into a raging fire that only one Olympic swimmer can extinguish (wink wink).
There’s a lovable, hilarious inner circle, raw vulnerability, and an ending that had me grinning like a total goof. I adored the setting, the pacing, the people—but most of all, the growth. As someone who also wears contacts/glasses and has asthma, I saw so much of myself in Summer. While I may not be an artist, her emotional journey and quiet resilience hit me hard. Watching her fall in love—with herself and Rory—was such a joy.
While there are content warnings for emotional manipulation and strained family dynamics, these themes are handled with care, empathy, and nuance.
Basically? This book is a hug, a breath of fresh air, and a plunge into something unexpectedly beautiful. It’s a vibe. I didn’t want it to end.
This was my first read from Erin Hawkins, and I was blown away by her storytelling and character depth. Despite its 400+ pages, the story flew by—I was completely immersed. Bonus points: I read most of it poolside while on vacation, and let me tell you, the chlorine and splashy ambiance only made the experience better.
Huge thanks to Erin Hawkins and PenPalPR for the opportunity to read this gem. I’m already counting down the days until the next book in the series.
As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
June 1, 2026
Beyond The Stroke
By Erin Hawkins
“Oh, no. He definitely likes you. And the way he looks at you?” She fans herself. “I had to splash some cold water on my face after I did your X-ray.”
She’s so pretty when she’s annoyed with me. I’m beginning to realize she’s gorgeous all the time but especially when those blue eyes flare with annoyance and her upper lip curls with exasperation.
He’s like the ocean waves slamming against the rocks. No matter how much resistance there is, he keeps showing up, eroding my defenses in a way that’s natural and unstoppable.
Summer and Rory are a cute read perfect for summer time! Rory is a professional swimmer and Summer is a secret artist. They both come from family’s that never appreciated them but what they individually could do or give their family. The theme that runs through Summer and Rory’s story is about trust and seeing the person for while they truly are. Loving them for them. Their story is a slow born but dang when that burn sparks to a fire we are off to the races and these two are hot! Really enjoyed this sweet story and audiobook!
Tropes:
Marriage Of Convenience
Black Cat x Golden Retriever
Age Gap
Forced Proximity
Swimming Romance
Found Family
Small Coastal Beach Town
Spice starts at: 70%
Spice: 2/4
Stars: 4/5
Available on Kindle Unlimited
By Erin Hawkins
“Oh, no. He definitely likes you. And the way he looks at you?” She fans herself. “I had to splash some cold water on my face after I did your X-ray.”
She’s so pretty when she’s annoyed with me. I’m beginning to realize she’s gorgeous all the time but especially when those blue eyes flare with annoyance and her upper lip curls with exasperation.
He’s like the ocean waves slamming against the rocks. No matter how much resistance there is, he keeps showing up, eroding my defenses in a way that’s natural and unstoppable.
Summer and Rory are a cute read perfect for summer time! Rory is a professional swimmer and Summer is a secret artist. They both come from family’s that never appreciated them but what they individually could do or give their family. The theme that runs through Summer and Rory’s story is about trust and seeing the person for while they truly are. Loving them for them. Their story is a slow born but dang when that burn sparks to a fire we are off to the races and these two are hot! Really enjoyed this sweet story and audiobook!
Tropes:
Marriage Of Convenience
Black Cat x Golden Retriever
Age Gap
Forced Proximity
Swimming Romance
Found Family
Small Coastal Beach Town
Spice starts at: 70%
Spice: 2/4
Stars: 4/5
Available on Kindle Unlimited
May 29, 2025
Beyond the Stroke is the first book in Erin Hawkins new sports romance series following the swimmers of the Carolina Current swim team. This is a marriage of convenience story between secret artist Summer and veteran swimmer Rory.
Rory needs to focus on his swim career and keep his parents and ex girlfriend off his back and after rescuing Summer from the ocean dressed as a mermaid, Rory knew his world was about to change. With Summer’s past she doesn’t trust herself to let people in but there’s something about Rory and his walking green flags that has Summer softening to him.
Quickly but slowly, Summer and Rory get to know each other and the ease they experience together solidifies their friendship foundation and strengthens their connection which only intensifies their chemistry when they finally take that step. I really enjoyed the found family team dynamic of the relay swimmers and can’t wait for each of their stories. After the second epilogue, I’m excited about the next story and hope it’s who I think it’s about.
Thank you @authorerinhawkins and @penpalpr for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
Rory needs to focus on his swim career and keep his parents and ex girlfriend off his back and after rescuing Summer from the ocean dressed as a mermaid, Rory knew his world was about to change. With Summer’s past she doesn’t trust herself to let people in but there’s something about Rory and his walking green flags that has Summer softening to him.
Quickly but slowly, Summer and Rory get to know each other and the ease they experience together solidifies their friendship foundation and strengthens their connection which only intensifies their chemistry when they finally take that step. I really enjoyed the found family team dynamic of the relay swimmers and can’t wait for each of their stories. After the second epilogue, I’m excited about the next story and hope it’s who I think it’s about.
Thank you @authorerinhawkins and @penpalpr for this eARC in exchange for my honest feedback
May 23, 2025
Just like Erin’s other books this was absolutely wonderful!! It was so much fun to jump into a new world, a new series, with new characters! I love all the little seeds Erin planted along the way for the rest of the books and couples! They all have me very excited for the rest of the series!! And this was SUCH a good start! Rory and Summer were so sweet and fun and I LOVE a marriage of convenience! I LOVE a black cat/golden retriever couple!!
Rory and Summer!! They met in the wildest way and I loved how quickly Rory fell!! There were also so many invisible strings connecting them!! Seeing it all come together for him at the end was SO perfect. I loved Summer and her soft and guarded heart!! Her past really hurt her, and she wasn’t really looking for anyone to let into her life…but really she didn’t have a chance once she met Rory! It was SO SWEET to see her slowly but surely let herself relax around him. And seeing how patient and loving Rory was!!! It was exactly what she needed.
I also really appreciated all the swimming storylines! Like I said Erin really did a good job of introducing everything and their potential pairings! And digging in JUST a little! Without it being too much. And I LOVED seeing the guys’ friendship. Truthfully I could have used a little MORE! But I’m sure we’ll see more and more as the books go on!
And truthfully I’m VERY VERY VERY excited about a certain someone and a certain someone’s sister!!!!?
Thanks to Pen Pal PR and Erin Hawkins for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Rory and Summer!! They met in the wildest way and I loved how quickly Rory fell!! There were also so many invisible strings connecting them!! Seeing it all come together for him at the end was SO perfect. I loved Summer and her soft and guarded heart!! Her past really hurt her, and she wasn’t really looking for anyone to let into her life…but really she didn’t have a chance once she met Rory! It was SO SWEET to see her slowly but surely let herself relax around him. And seeing how patient and loving Rory was!!! It was exactly what she needed.
I also really appreciated all the swimming storylines! Like I said Erin really did a good job of introducing everything and their potential pairings! And digging in JUST a little! Without it being too much. And I LOVED seeing the guys’ friendship. Truthfully I could have used a little MORE! But I’m sure we’ll see more and more as the books go on!
And truthfully I’m VERY VERY VERY excited about a certain someone and a certain someone’s sister!!!!?
Thanks to Pen Pal PR and Erin Hawkins for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 1, 2025
If you’re looking for a light and fun summer romance - look no further. In a book world inundated with hockey and baseball sports romance, it was SO refreshing to read something focused on swimming (because you know we have all revered Michael Phelps and Ryan Lochte, and their speedos, a time or two). This was such a sweet marriage of convenience read and the SLOW SLOW burn was SO good. Lots of tension and witty banter between the two main characters. Rory was such a golden retriever of a fake husband and honestly, I will never not swoon over a good “my wife” moment. Summer was so guarded and I loved watching Rory break down her walls as they fell in love. The side characters were fantastic and I think we got a great hint at who the next couple in the series will be - and I am so here for it 🙌🏼
July 19, 2025
Beyond the Stroke is cute, low angst summer romance. Summer is new in town and Rory is an Olympic swimmer. Their meet cute is interesting and unique. There was some pretty good banter, but I was bored. The amount of internal dialogue about their pasts was a lot to the point where it slowed down the plot. I did like how Summer grew as a character and I liked the romance. The plot was easy, which didn’t bother me. I just needed a little more for Rory, especially standing up to his parents. The audiobook was well produced, and Lucy Rivers and Alex Knox did a great job narrating. I’d recommend listening to Beyond the Stroke while you’re at the beach or need something fun without a lot of angst.
Thank you to Must Love Audio for an ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
Thank you to Must Love Audio for an ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
February 20, 2026
I have two memorable thoughts regarding this book.
I. Is there a bathroom in the RV?
I couldn’t tell you exactly which chapter, but chapterS in to knowing Summer is living in a RV- there is finally mention of a “tiny bathroom.” Which kinda tells you something if I’m left wondering in this story about the existence of a bathroom.
2. The new, clean paint brush
Welll hellllo there. Color (or paint) me surprised. I was not expecting that move, and truthfully didn’t think book had what it takes to take that turn.
Other than that- it was okay. I put it off for a few days, and didn’t necessarily want to pick it back up. TBD I needed to finish it for book club.
Was it terrible? No.
Was it a 5 star, life changing experience? No.
Will I recall the storyline by next Tuesday for book club? Probably not.
I. Is there a bathroom in the RV?
I couldn’t tell you exactly which chapter, but chapterS in to knowing Summer is living in a RV- there is finally mention of a “tiny bathroom.” Which kinda tells you something if I’m left wondering in this story about the existence of a bathroom.
2. The new, clean paint brush
Welll hellllo there. Color (or paint) me surprised. I was not expecting that move, and truthfully didn’t think book had what it takes to take that turn.
Other than that- it was okay. I put it off for a few days, and didn’t necessarily want to pick it back up. TBD I needed to finish it for book club.
Was it terrible? No.
Was it a 5 star, life changing experience? No.
Will I recall the storyline by next Tuesday for book club? Probably not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2026
Rory is a cinnamon roll and I adore him for it. Not a lot happens in this book, there's really no conflict, drama, or tension. But. If you want something very lighthearted with really easy going characters, this hits the spot. 3.75 ☆
January 29, 2026
Really enjoyed this book! A quick and fun read!
Read
May 21, 2026I had 10% of this left and had to DNF…. The more she liked him the more I HATED him. And then there was a situation with a paintbrush that I could just simply not get past……………….
June 22, 2026
Absolutely adorable!
This was my first book was Erin Hawkins and I absolutely adored it. Rory and Summer were perfect for each and other. I could not resist this fake relationship and Rory's Golden Retriever personality. I'm jumping right into book two.
This was my first book was Erin Hawkins and I absolutely adored it. Rory and Summer were perfect for each and other. I could not resist this fake relationship and Rory's Golden Retriever personality. I'm jumping right into book two.
March 14, 2026
2/19/26: re-read in audiobook!
This story was just as good the second time around!! So many swoony, steamy, amazing moments!
🎧Narrated by Lucy Rivers & Alex Knox-- loved them!
I'm upping it to a full 5⭐ on the second read!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
***ARC Review***
Beyond the Stroke (Carolina Current #1) by Erin Hawkins
Release date: May 30th - Free on KU!
This was such a cute summer romance!
I loved the reverse Little Mermaid style meet-cute! Rory is down bad immediately to Summer's dismay 😅. He's our Sunshiney Golden Retriever (or dolphin!) to Summer's Grumpy Black Cat. She has mile-high walls up and couldn't be more clear that she's not interested in becoming friends (or more), but Rory is nothing if not persistent! He eventually wears Summer down so she'll allow him to hang around her 😂.
After a near-drowning, an asthma attack, and a nearly broken wrist, Rory is determined to help Summer, but she's too proud for her own good! Summer is in the small coastal town of Coral Cove to assert her independence, so she doesn't want to owe anybody anything for fear of strings being attached. She eventually accepts some of his help with a LOT of resistance.
They have similar family issues that leads to a deeper understanding of one another, so when Rory's family starts pressuring him to get back with his awful ex-girlfriend, Summer's protective instincts kick in. Next thing we know, she announces to them that she's his wife! When reality sinks in, Summer has regrets, but Rory convinces her to make it real to benefit them both. Rory's parents will be off his back so he can focus on his swimming career and Summer can get on his insurance and finally afford her much-needed inhaler!
The marriage of convenience doesn't take long to morph into more. Rory is so sweet, thoughtful, and gorgeous (hello, swimmer's bod!), and slowly but surely, he breaks down Summer's walls. He goes out of his way to show Summer how she should be treated and that she deserves the world! Their attraction is hard to ignore, and what's the point of living together and being married if you can't take advantage of the goods!? And they get STEAMY. 🥵
Erin has a way of writing banter and flirtation that I just love. Even though Rory and Summer moved quickly, I believed in their feelings and closeness and I melted over their relationship. I haven't met a man written by Erin yet that hasn't made me swoon! (You should check out her Accidentally in Love series! It's one of my faves!) Rory was no exception. In fact, he's high up on the list now!
I can't wait to see what's next for the series!
4.75⭐ 2.5🌶️
I received an advanced copy of this eBook, and this is my honest review. Thank you Erin Hawkins and Pen Pal PR for the ARC!
This story was just as good the second time around!! So many swoony, steamy, amazing moments!
🎧Narrated by Lucy Rivers & Alex Knox-- loved them!
I'm upping it to a full 5⭐ on the second read!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
***ARC Review***
Beyond the Stroke (Carolina Current #1) by Erin Hawkins
Release date: May 30th - Free on KU!
This was such a cute summer romance!
I loved the reverse Little Mermaid style meet-cute! Rory is down bad immediately to Summer's dismay 😅. He's our Sunshiney Golden Retriever (or dolphin!) to Summer's Grumpy Black Cat. She has mile-high walls up and couldn't be more clear that she's not interested in becoming friends (or more), but Rory is nothing if not persistent! He eventually wears Summer down so she'll allow him to hang around her 😂.
After a near-drowning, an asthma attack, and a nearly broken wrist, Rory is determined to help Summer, but she's too proud for her own good! Summer is in the small coastal town of Coral Cove to assert her independence, so she doesn't want to owe anybody anything for fear of strings being attached. She eventually accepts some of his help with a LOT of resistance.
They have similar family issues that leads to a deeper understanding of one another, so when Rory's family starts pressuring him to get back with his awful ex-girlfriend, Summer's protective instincts kick in. Next thing we know, she announces to them that she's his wife! When reality sinks in, Summer has regrets, but Rory convinces her to make it real to benefit them both. Rory's parents will be off his back so he can focus on his swimming career and Summer can get on his insurance and finally afford her much-needed inhaler!
The marriage of convenience doesn't take long to morph into more. Rory is so sweet, thoughtful, and gorgeous (hello, swimmer's bod!), and slowly but surely, he breaks down Summer's walls. He goes out of his way to show Summer how she should be treated and that she deserves the world! Their attraction is hard to ignore, and what's the point of living together and being married if you can't take advantage of the goods!? And they get STEAMY. 🥵
Erin has a way of writing banter and flirtation that I just love. Even though Rory and Summer moved quickly, I believed in their feelings and closeness and I melted over their relationship. I haven't met a man written by Erin yet that hasn't made me swoon! (You should check out her Accidentally in Love series! It's one of my faves!) Rory was no exception. In fact, he's high up on the list now!
I can't wait to see what's next for the series!
4.75⭐ 2.5🌶️
I received an advanced copy of this eBook, and this is my honest review. Thank you Erin Hawkins and Pen Pal PR for the ARC!
October 21, 2025
He fucks her with a paintbrush and I’m sorry to say that I skimmed the rest of this book after that. They also brought it up a lot afterward?
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