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Under Southern Stars
She survived a toxic marriage, a brutal divorce, and the chaos of the ER. Her heart? Flatlined. Love? Marked DNR.
Emergency department nurse Sophia Mitchell has made it through the single motherhood, long shifts in one of the country’s busiest ERs, and a man who nearly broke her. Now she’s built walls around her heart strong enough to stop a trauma team. And she has exactly zero interest in letting anyone past them.
Especially not the charming New Zealand paramedic whose radio flirtations are making her question everything she knows about keeping men at a safe distance.
Jack McKenzie wasn't supposed to be more than another EMT dropping off patients at Metro General. But his coffee deliveries, his easy way with her fifteen-year-old daughter Madison, and an accent that does dangerous things to her pulse are slowly dismantling every defense she's built. When he invites them to New Zealand for spring break, Sophia takes the biggest leap of faith since signing her divorce papers.
What she discovers halfway around the world changes everything.
Jack isn't just a paramedic with perfect coffee skills—he's Jackson Charles McKenzie, heir to a wine empire and owner of a vineyard estate that belongs in a travel magazine. Standing in his family's mansion, watching his mother assess her like a lab specimen, Sophia realizes she's made the same mistake falling for a man who's been playing a carefully edited version of himself.
But when her toxic ex-husband escalates his campaign of psychological warfare, Sophia discovers Jack has been quietly protecting Madison from threats she never knew existed. Now she faces an impossible trust the man who deceived her, or lose the only person who's ever made her feel truly seen.
From Metro General's controlled chaos to Central Otago's breathtaking vineyards, this is a story about second chances, the courage to trust again, and discovering that sometimes the biggest risk is letting someone see all of you—scars, walls, and all.
Emergency department nurse Sophia Mitchell has made it through the single motherhood, long shifts in one of the country’s busiest ERs, and a man who nearly broke her. Now she’s built walls around her heart strong enough to stop a trauma team. And she has exactly zero interest in letting anyone past them.
Especially not the charming New Zealand paramedic whose radio flirtations are making her question everything she knows about keeping men at a safe distance.
Jack McKenzie wasn't supposed to be more than another EMT dropping off patients at Metro General. But his coffee deliveries, his easy way with her fifteen-year-old daughter Madison, and an accent that does dangerous things to her pulse are slowly dismantling every defense she's built. When he invites them to New Zealand for spring break, Sophia takes the biggest leap of faith since signing her divorce papers.
What she discovers halfway around the world changes everything.
Jack isn't just a paramedic with perfect coffee skills—he's Jackson Charles McKenzie, heir to a wine empire and owner of a vineyard estate that belongs in a travel magazine. Standing in his family's mansion, watching his mother assess her like a lab specimen, Sophia realizes she's made the same mistake falling for a man who's been playing a carefully edited version of himself.
But when her toxic ex-husband escalates his campaign of psychological warfare, Sophia discovers Jack has been quietly protecting Madison from threats she never knew existed. Now she faces an impossible trust the man who deceived her, or lose the only person who's ever made her feel truly seen.
From Metro General's controlled chaos to Central Otago's breathtaking vineyards, this is a story about second chances, the courage to trust again, and discovering that sometimes the biggest risk is letting someone see all of you—scars, walls, and all.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2025
156 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
December 22, 2025
3.75🌟
I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that encompasses the drama of an ER, the life of a busy hospital or a paramedic, our emergency services are really impressive, blue hearts indeed! I was reminded of tv shows such as Casualty, ER, Chicago med etc but I can’t think of a single book, and I’m pleased to say it worked really well and is the first in a series that I’ll look forward to reading more from.
There’s quite a lot going on in the story, part love story, part medical drama and covers a lot of family dilemmas that I really enjoyed.
The narration was lovely, the writing aswell, and the author duly dedicates the work to the frontline hero’s. I appreciated it all.
Huge thanks to Victory Editing and NetGalley Co-op for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that encompasses the drama of an ER, the life of a busy hospital or a paramedic, our emergency services are really impressive, blue hearts indeed! I was reminded of tv shows such as Casualty, ER, Chicago med etc but I can’t think of a single book, and I’m pleased to say it worked really well and is the first in a series that I’ll look forward to reading more from.
There’s quite a lot going on in the story, part love story, part medical drama and covers a lot of family dilemmas that I really enjoyed.
The narration was lovely, the writing aswell, and the author duly dedicates the work to the frontline hero’s. I appreciated it all.
Huge thanks to Victory Editing and NetGalley Co-op for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
August 17, 2025
3-3.5⭐️ Under the Southern Stars was a good, easy read with some charming moments, though I found myself wanting a bit more in a few areas. The romance leans more toward insta-love or insta-attraction, and while that can work, I would’ve loved to see a slower buildup between Jack and Sophia to make their emotional connection feel deeper.
I appreciated the inclusion of nursing in the story and thought it was handled well and respectfully. The main conflict, centered on Jack hiding his wealthy background, felt a little overblown. It didn’t seem like a betrayal—money doesn’t define a person, and it felt like something that could’ve been solved with a conversation. I get that Sophia had walls up from her past, but it felt a bit one-sided considering Jack had baggage too.
The pacing was occasionally slow, but overall, it was still enjoyable and had enough heart to keep me engaged.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
I appreciated the inclusion of nursing in the story and thought it was handled well and respectfully. The main conflict, centered on Jack hiding his wealthy background, felt a little overblown. It didn’t seem like a betrayal—money doesn’t define a person, and it felt like something that could’ve been solved with a conversation. I get that Sophia had walls up from her past, but it felt a bit one-sided considering Jack had baggage too.
The pacing was occasionally slow, but overall, it was still enjoyable and had enough heart to keep me engaged.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2025
Could Not Stop Reading
I am am avid reader of crime/mystery books, but sometimes I like to break free with something less intense. While there wasn't any murder to solve or criminal to chase, Cari Blake brought her own level of intensity to print in Under Southern Stars. I literally had to put my Kindle down while reading to let my emotions reset whether it be due to a steamy encounter between Sophia and Jack or because of how completely insane Troy is with his views on women (poor Madison). The story does include medical situations, but they are basic enough for people outside of the medical field to understand.
I've already recommended and shared this book with friends and family!
On to book 2!
I am am avid reader of crime/mystery books, but sometimes I like to break free with something less intense. While there wasn't any murder to solve or criminal to chase, Cari Blake brought her own level of intensity to print in Under Southern Stars. I literally had to put my Kindle down while reading to let my emotions reset whether it be due to a steamy encounter between Sophia and Jack or because of how completely insane Troy is with his views on women (poor Madison). The story does include medical situations, but they are basic enough for people outside of the medical field to understand.
I've already recommended and shared this book with friends and family!
On to book 2!
August 13, 2025
One of my favorite stories, this book has amazing characters! Realistic ED setting, as an ED nurse, couldn’t be more accurate of a description on the work environment, you thought there was drama in high school…
August 31, 2025
Ok I need to go to New Zealand now lol the descriptions of nature, landmarks, animals in the book was amazing! And the wine sounds great too.
The romance was quite sweet as well and the spice great. The side characters were all cute too especially jacks sisters.
I loved that the main character was a single mom divorced - I don’t think that gets much representation in romance. I think the book did a great job of showing the sacrifices and struggles of the single mom but also how rewarding it can be.
Definitely recommend for my romance girlies!
The romance was quite sweet as well and the spice great. The side characters were all cute too especially jacks sisters.
I loved that the main character was a single mom divorced - I don’t think that gets much representation in romance. I think the book did a great job of showing the sacrifices and struggles of the single mom but also how rewarding it can be.
Definitely recommend for my romance girlies!
August 23, 2025
Thank you to Cari Blake, Victory Editing, and Netgalley for the ARC. My review is voluntary and the opinions are mine.
I love romances. This was one of the best I have read in a while. The characters of Sophia and Jack were interesting in the careers. Their path to HEA was not smooth, but that real. Add in the characters of Sophia's daughter Madison and all of Jack's family to bring some entertainment value. I look forward to reading the next book by this fantastic author!
I love romances. This was one of the best I have read in a while. The characters of Sophia and Jack were interesting in the careers. Their path to HEA was not smooth, but that real. Add in the characters of Sophia's daughter Madison and all of Jack's family to bring some entertainment value. I look forward to reading the next book by this fantastic author!
November 24, 2025
This was SO promising! I LOVE when I discover an indie author, who never actually planned to be an author, and writes characters from their field with such accuracy and faithfulness. However, this debut was soooo unmistakably a debut. It fell into all the usual trappings: uneven pacing, repetitiveness, awkward exposition forced into scenes… but I can still see potential for me to continue enjoying this author’s work. Onto the next one!
October 21, 2025
I have never connected with characters the way I did in this book. Cari Blake doesn’t just tell a story—she breathes life into it. From the very first page, Sophia and Jack felt like real people I knew and cared about, and by the end, I was completely lost in their world.
What truly sets this book apart is the authenticity. Cari’s real-life experience as an ER nurse shines through in every medical scene. The realism, the emotion, the chaos—it all feels so genuine that you can practically hear the monitors beeping and feel the adrenaline rush. It’s not just detail for the sake of it; it’s lived experience, and it gives the story an incredible depth and intensity.
And then there’s the setting. Her descriptions of New Zealand are absolutely breathtaking. The landscapes, the culture, the tiny sensory details—every bit of it is written with such precision and love that I felt like I’d been transported there myself.
Under Southern Stars isn’t just a romance—it’s an experience. Cari Blake has officially become an auto-buy author for me. The emotion, the realism, the vivid descriptions—this book had it all. I’m already counting down the days until book two.
What truly sets this book apart is the authenticity. Cari’s real-life experience as an ER nurse shines through in every medical scene. The realism, the emotion, the chaos—it all feels so genuine that you can practically hear the monitors beeping and feel the adrenaline rush. It’s not just detail for the sake of it; it’s lived experience, and it gives the story an incredible depth and intensity.
And then there’s the setting. Her descriptions of New Zealand are absolutely breathtaking. The landscapes, the culture, the tiny sensory details—every bit of it is written with such precision and love that I felt like I’d been transported there myself.
Under Southern Stars isn’t just a romance—it’s an experience. Cari Blake has officially become an auto-buy author for me. The emotion, the realism, the vivid descriptions—this book had it all. I’m already counting down the days until book two.
November 13, 2025
STEM FMC: ER nurse. STEM MMC: paramedic
They are medical professionals and there is no discussion of safety or prevention before diving right in to sex?!
It’s a bit repetitive and the pacing is off. Within a couple weeks of dating he’s trying to give his last name to her daughter? Nope! As a teenage daughter of a single mom who dated while I was in high school, I would have thrown a fit if one of her boyfriends tried to come in like my new dad after them dating for less than a month. Not appropriate.
They are medical professionals and there is no discussion of safety or prevention before diving right in to sex?!
It’s a bit repetitive and the pacing is off. Within a couple weeks of dating he’s trying to give his last name to her daughter? Nope! As a teenage daughter of a single mom who dated while I was in high school, I would have thrown a fit if one of her boyfriends tried to come in like my new dad after them dating for less than a month. Not appropriate.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2025
A Gritty Romance....with a Kiwi Twist
I read a lot of these and it got me to laugh out loud, tear up, get mad and get turned on several times. Win x 4. I loved all of the emergency response details and I learned a lot about New Zealand, too! Finished this book in a day or so at the beach, so good, I just kept going!
I read a lot of these and it got me to laugh out loud, tear up, get mad and get turned on several times. Win x 4. I loved all of the emergency response details and I learned a lot about New Zealand, too! Finished this book in a day or so at the beach, so good, I just kept going!
September 14, 2025
A great read from a debut (and local) author!
Really enjoyed the glimpse into ER nurse/paramedic life, the New Zealand/vineyard setting and the relatable aspects of a budding romance with the perfect amount of predictability.
Really enjoyed the glimpse into ER nurse/paramedic life, the New Zealand/vineyard setting and the relatable aspects of a budding romance with the perfect amount of predictability.
September 19, 2025
Obsessed with Jack!!
This book makes you feel so connected to the characters! I love the description of New Zealand and all the new medical terms I learned. But the best was the relationships and learning that true love always comes out on top!
This book makes you feel so connected to the characters! I love the description of New Zealand and all the new medical terms I learned. But the best was the relationships and learning that true love always comes out on top!
December 31, 2025
It started off really strong. I am not in the medical field but appreciated the knowledge that was woven into the story. The medical scenes felt very lifelike and had me completely immersed. I also loved how the romance starts off with the cute moments shared between Jack and Sophia at work and over the radio. I immediately started messaging all of my friends in the medical field to add this to their TBR. I had such high hopes for this book and was all in at the beginning of the story. I wasn’t a huge fan of the instalove but I’m always willing to give the book a chance if the plot can make up for it.
Unfortunately the book started to go way downhill very quickly. As the story progressed, the author’s writing became more and more lazy. Cari Blake does a lot of telling and very little showing. One major example of this is the ex-husband, Troy. Instead of taking the time to actually write in scenes that show how he might be a toxic parent/ex-husband she instead just has him spew direct dialogue that is beyond overly dramatized. I think what’s worse is that this author clearly chose a widely inaccurate stereotype of someone from a community who obviously has differing thoughts and opinions than her own. Anytime she would do this - which was often - it would completely throw me out of the story. You would think that authors would know by now that if they are intent on sending a message then it has to be done in a way that flows with the story and gives the reader a chance to have an open mind to what the writer is trying to convey. Lazy writers such as Cari Blake only achieve to cut their audience in half while contributing to the demonization of other communities with their overly inflated, inaccurate rhetoric that only further divides our nation. Seriously, we are stepping into 2026, have we not figured out how to evolve past this? Thankfully lazy writers like her are easy to see through and only accomplish creating an echo chamber for a small population of readers. I truly tried to look past this in the beginning but eventually it started to become a major focal point in the story and eventually I just lost interest all together. It’s almost like Blake lost sight of what she was actually trying to achieve here. Then we get to the conflict between Jack and Sophia and again, it was kinda just lazy writing… it was like, really? That’s it? It was very… underwhelming.
Needless to say, I will not be recommending this book to others.
I received an ALC from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinions. All thoughts are my own.
Narrated in duel POV by Arya Jacobs and Kieran Rayner. Arya Jacob’s did a lovely job with her narration. I think Kieran Rayner struggled to switch up his voices for the other characters. I think he would do better with duet narration.
Unfortunately the book started to go way downhill very quickly. As the story progressed, the author’s writing became more and more lazy. Cari Blake does a lot of telling and very little showing. One major example of this is the ex-husband, Troy. Instead of taking the time to actually write in scenes that show how he might be a toxic parent/ex-husband she instead just has him spew direct dialogue that is beyond overly dramatized. I think what’s worse is that this author clearly chose a widely inaccurate stereotype of someone from a community who obviously has differing thoughts and opinions than her own. Anytime she would do this - which was often - it would completely throw me out of the story. You would think that authors would know by now that if they are intent on sending a message then it has to be done in a way that flows with the story and gives the reader a chance to have an open mind to what the writer is trying to convey. Lazy writers such as Cari Blake only achieve to cut their audience in half while contributing to the demonization of other communities with their overly inflated, inaccurate rhetoric that only further divides our nation. Seriously, we are stepping into 2026, have we not figured out how to evolve past this? Thankfully lazy writers like her are easy to see through and only accomplish creating an echo chamber for a small population of readers. I truly tried to look past this in the beginning but eventually it started to become a major focal point in the story and eventually I just lost interest all together. It’s almost like Blake lost sight of what she was actually trying to achieve here. Then we get to the conflict between Jack and Sophia and again, it was kinda just lazy writing… it was like, really? That’s it? It was very… underwhelming.
Needless to say, I will not be recommending this book to others.
I received an ALC from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinions. All thoughts are my own.
Narrated in duel POV by Arya Jacobs and Kieran Rayner. Arya Jacob’s did a lovely job with her narration. I think Kieran Rayner struggled to switch up his voices for the other characters. I think he would do better with duet narration.
January 14, 2026
I listened to the audio for this one and I'm scoring it a 3 stars too. There were a few glitches in the audio, the beginning and end of most POV's were cut for a second and I didn't hear the first or last word. Whether from my download from NetGalley or the actual audio is like that, I don't know.
The female voice was good, I liked her accents (5 stars). The male accent was good when he spoke with the New Zealand accent, but not so much with the others, he did however laugh, grunt and make all the amazing sounds that make an audio fun to listen to (4 stars).
As for the plot it was a great story, but the writing began to be quite repetitive from 50% on wards (and I am not talking about the repeat we have in the scene when we change POV's, I get that it was needed, that was ok). The chapter endings were very similar; the inner thoughts from both characters were very similar; the last chapters were extremely repetitive; all their justifications were repeated in two or three chapters, it was like they had nothing new to say - it was the same lingo every time (and all this raises my suspicion that AI was used).
This is not a clean romance, there are quite a few intimate scenes and F bombs, so if this is not your thing this book is not for you. But if it is, you will enjoy this story.
Tkank you NetGalley for the chance to ARC this book and review it.
The female voice was good, I liked her accents (5 stars). The male accent was good when he spoke with the New Zealand accent, but not so much with the others, he did however laugh, grunt and make all the amazing sounds that make an audio fun to listen to (4 stars).
As for the plot it was a great story, but the writing began to be quite repetitive from 50% on wards (and I am not talking about the repeat we have in the scene when we change POV's, I get that it was needed, that was ok). The chapter endings were very similar; the inner thoughts from both characters were very similar; the last chapters were extremely repetitive; all their justifications were repeated in two or three chapters, it was like they had nothing new to say - it was the same lingo every time (and all this raises my suspicion that AI was used).
This is not a clean romance, there are quite a few intimate scenes and F bombs, so if this is not your thing this book is not for you. But if it is, you will enjoy this story.
Tkank you NetGalley for the chance to ARC this book and review it.
December 28, 2025
3.5⭐️
I had fun with this story. I listened to the audiobook, always extra credits when multiple narrators are used when there are multiple pov’s. The story is easy to follow and enjoyable when doing creative stuff at the same time.
I liked reading about the hectic world of the ER, especially the way Sophia stood up for her team somewhere in the middle of the story. The connection between Sophia and Jack was cute. Even though the tempo in this book was high, it was a fun journey.
There were two things that could have handled better. Madison is 15, yet it feels like she switches from 10 to 18 to 15 back to 10 years old. Sometimes she’s unusually wise, sometimes she’s very childlike. I think it would have worked better if there were two children, that way you can have the childlike enthusiasm and the smart remarks.
Second, the struggle of Jack came over like first-world-problems. So, he has money, so what. He had trauma from previous experiences, yet the trauma did not feel like a trauma, just a bad girlfriend experience. At some point, I got pretty annoyed.
But I still had fun with the story and want to continue with the series!
Thank you Netgalley for providing the audiobook!
I had fun with this story. I listened to the audiobook, always extra credits when multiple narrators are used when there are multiple pov’s. The story is easy to follow and enjoyable when doing creative stuff at the same time.
I liked reading about the hectic world of the ER, especially the way Sophia stood up for her team somewhere in the middle of the story. The connection between Sophia and Jack was cute. Even though the tempo in this book was high, it was a fun journey.
There were two things that could have handled better. Madison is 15, yet it feels like she switches from 10 to 18 to 15 back to 10 years old. Sometimes she’s unusually wise, sometimes she’s very childlike. I think it would have worked better if there were two children, that way you can have the childlike enthusiasm and the smart remarks.
Second, the struggle of Jack came over like first-world-problems. So, he has money, so what. He had trauma from previous experiences, yet the trauma did not feel like a trauma, just a bad girlfriend experience. At some point, I got pretty annoyed.
But I still had fun with the story and want to continue with the series!
Thank you Netgalley for providing the audiobook!
January 15, 2026
This book started off strong with the medical aspects and a witty strong main female character.
I thought it was going to be a charming love story with aspects from New Zealand but it started to go down hill fast. The author used a lot of stereotypes for her hate and “trauma” from the ex husband but doesn’t really give examples except for crappy things he says.
It was lazy and bad writing.
Then she throws in a insta-love story and so much dialogue. Things were so repetitive and redundant. She over discussed some issues and added things just because it’s her personal view.
I was hoping the story would redeem itself by the end I was just ready to end. It was predictable and uneventful.
I received a free advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I thought it was going to be a charming love story with aspects from New Zealand but it started to go down hill fast. The author used a lot of stereotypes for her hate and “trauma” from the ex husband but doesn’t really give examples except for crappy things he says.
It was lazy and bad writing.
Then she throws in a insta-love story and so much dialogue. Things were so repetitive and redundant. She over discussed some issues and added things just because it’s her personal view.
I was hoping the story would redeem itself by the end I was just ready to end. It was predictable and uneventful.
I received a free advanced reader copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2026
Under Southern Stars was a quick and enjoyable read a la the audiobook edition; The narrators were also pleasant to listen to. I enjoyed this storyline as it features a FMC and MMC that are a bit older with the opposite age gap (the FMC is several years older than the MMC). There were a few aspects/points that could be more concise, but it did not detract overall from enjoying the storyline. I look forward to reading future books in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ALC edition of this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ALC edition of this book.
August 14, 2025
Cari Blake’s debut is an easy, engaging contemporary romance set between a busy metro ER and the vineyards of New Zealand. Sophia Mitchell, an emergency nurse and single mom, has survived a toxic marriage and a brutal divorce. She’s not looking for love—especially not with a charming New Zealand paramedic who keeps showing up with coffee and kind words.
The ER scenes are vivid and clearly drawn from real-life experience—some of the best parts of the book. Once the story heads to New Zealand, the sense of place is equally strong. Jack’s “hidden identity” subplot could have been solved with one adult conversation, but his backstory gives enough weight to (mostly) justify the secrecy. I was willing to suspend a little disbelief for the sake of the story. He’s a cinnamon roll through and through, especially with Sophia’s delightfully sassy and unexpectedly insightful teen daughter, Madison.
The ex-husband’s petty manipulations add tension without hijacking the romance, and the book never loses sight of its core: a guarded woman learning to trust again. The characters are simple, the beats predictable—but that’s part of its charm. It’s an easy, satisfying read with a strong sense of place, and I’ll be picking up the next book in the series.
The ER scenes are vivid and clearly drawn from real-life experience—some of the best parts of the book. Once the story heads to New Zealand, the sense of place is equally strong. Jack’s “hidden identity” subplot could have been solved with one adult conversation, but his backstory gives enough weight to (mostly) justify the secrecy. I was willing to suspend a little disbelief for the sake of the story. He’s a cinnamon roll through and through, especially with Sophia’s delightfully sassy and unexpectedly insightful teen daughter, Madison.
The ex-husband’s petty manipulations add tension without hijacking the romance, and the book never loses sight of its core: a guarded woman learning to trust again. The characters are simple, the beats predictable—but that’s part of its charm. It’s an easy, satisfying read with a strong sense of place, and I’ll be picking up the next book in the series.
January 14, 2026
This was such a nice story. I enjoyed the narrators and the story. I love how the teenage daughter was portrayed and it felt like it could be a realistic relationship between mother, daughter, and toxic father.
I do with we learned a little more about the dad. That we find out if he gets what’s coming!
I do with we learned a little more about the dad. That we find out if he gets what’s coming!
December 30, 2025
This wasn’t one of my favorite reads this year. It was slow moving and boring at times. I wanted to shake the female main character and make her quit her whining and ridiculousness. It’s very predictable and the turning point when they break up or separate for a bit is such a minor issue in my mind that I hated her even more.
January 14, 2026
I really enjoyed this audio book. The kiwi accent from the MMC had me blushing at some parts. The writing was excellent and the romance was so heartwarming. This is a medical romance, the FMC is a charge nurse and the MMC is an EMT. The production wasn’t the greatest unfortunately, there was some gaps and odd quiet moments where it felt like the sentence was stopped too short. I enjoyed the story and will plan on continuing the series as Blake releases more
December 29, 2025
* ER // EMS
* New Zealand accent 🎧
* Grumpy x sunshine
* The opposite of a slow burn - instalove
* Medical romance
If you hate slow burn love stories and want them to fall hard and fast - you will love this!
Sophia, the MFC, is an ER charge nurse, and single mom post divorce to a 15 year old daughter.
Jack, the MMC, is a paramedic that will truly do anything to spend more time with Sophia and goes out of his way to make her feel special and seen.
*very slight spoiler ahead*
About half of the book stems from Jack hiding his family’s wealth, which Sophia is upset about when she finds out. This made the book a little hard for me to digest- the amount of betrayal she felt seemed more equivalent to him hiding something terrible, like had he kept his whole family a secret or a criminal past; but this honestly felt like something that was just a positive addition to him. Which then especially made it hard to understand why she is so mad he kept this secret, but not about another one he kept that actually directly affects her and her daughter.
However, the authors ability to capture the mental and emotional weight of their jobs, the stories that stay with them, and how it affects their lives was amazing. You can tell the medical aspect of this is a lived experience and written SO well.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for an advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review
* New Zealand accent 🎧
* Grumpy x sunshine
* The opposite of a slow burn - instalove
* Medical romance
If you hate slow burn love stories and want them to fall hard and fast - you will love this!
Sophia, the MFC, is an ER charge nurse, and single mom post divorce to a 15 year old daughter.
Jack, the MMC, is a paramedic that will truly do anything to spend more time with Sophia and goes out of his way to make her feel special and seen.
*very slight spoiler ahead*
About half of the book stems from Jack hiding his family’s wealth, which Sophia is upset about when she finds out. This made the book a little hard for me to digest- the amount of betrayal she felt seemed more equivalent to him hiding something terrible, like had he kept his whole family a secret or a criminal past; but this honestly felt like something that was just a positive addition to him. Which then especially made it hard to understand why she is so mad he kept this secret, but not about another one he kept that actually directly affects her and her daughter.
However, the authors ability to capture the mental and emotional weight of their jobs, the stories that stay with them, and how it affects their lives was amazing. You can tell the medical aspect of this is a lived experience and written SO well.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for an advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review
July 21, 2025
Sophia over reacted when it was revealed how Jack grew up. It basically said he had left to help people. She’s mad cause he came from money and she’s struggling. Like what she expected him to just give her money. That’s the whole point of him not revealing his background. If she’d been a grown up and actually had a talk with him instead of saying the one sided conversation she decided was only worthy to be heard, maybe she’d understand. She’s acting like money is who he is, but it’s not. She’s being annoying and dramatic because she didn’t know about his money. He already showed who he is by his actions. Money doesn’t define someone. But other than that it wasn't a bad book.
Spice was a half of pepper
Spice was a half of pepper
January 8, 2026
Under Southern Stars by Cari Blake (2025)
Code Blue Hearts #1
10h 5m narrated by Arya Jacobs and Kieran Rayner, 334 pages
334-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-319
Genre: Medical Romance
Rating as a movie: NC-17 or XX for sexual content depending on editing
Featuring: Preface Content Warning - Emotional Reality of Working in Emergency Medicine, Contains Intense Emergency Situations That May Be Challenging For Some Readers, No Graphic Details, Scenes Grounded in Compassion and Realism, Emergency Birth, Life Saving Procedure - Cricothyrotomy; Dual POVs, Emergency Room at a Metro Hospital, ER Nurse, Divorcée, Paramedics, Workplace Setting, Workplace Romance, New Zealand, Single Mother, Co-parenting, Māori, Sex - Vividly Detailed, Teenagers, Soccer, Ruby, Age Gap - 6 Years, Misogyny, Secret Trope, Anytown, USA; Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand; Auckland, North Island, New Zealand; Dunedin, South Island, New Zealand; Family Dynamics, Print Version - Text Graphics, Note From Author, Blurb, Praise and Excerpt for No Greater Love: Code Blue Hearts, Book 2, Author's Links
Songs for the soundtrack: "The Giver" by Chappell Roan, "Happy Birthday To You" by Patty Hill and Mildred J. Hill
Books and Authors mentioned: The Princess Bride by William Goldman [based on] The Princess Bride: S. Morgenstern's Classic Tale of True Love and High Adventure, The "Good Parts" Version by William Goldman; Brené Brown, The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien, The Matrix by The Wachowskis, The Giver by Lois Lowry
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟⚕️🩺🏥🚑🇺🇸🇳🇿⚽️🏉
My thoughts: 📱2% 9h 53m left Chapter 2 Jack - I finally took everyone's advice and signed up for Netgally and this is my first read. It seems to be a recently published audiobook for a series that already has I think 3 books out and is available on Kindle Unlimited. Unfortunately, my Kindle is maxed out so I will not be able to read it today but the audiobook is fantastic. When I saw book 2 was available on Kindle Unlimited I was immediately thinking, I'm gonna have to read that book after this, but by the end of chapter one, I knew there is no way on doing this series without the audio. These narrators are phenomenal it is like watching a show in my head it kind of reminds me of a game Operate Now: Hospital. This book is very exciting, I’m going to have to read this series with my husband.
📱7% 9h 25m left Chapter 5 Sophia [five sophia Page 22 of 334] - I got the ebook, did a little reading along [dual reading] but this is actually better as an audiobook. The print is good, but busy compared to the audio, which sounds like a television show.
I read a book, [which was fantastic - 5 stars], just so I could free up a spot on my Kindle Unlimited and get this ebook. The audio book is fantastic it does not need an e-book but I did not feel like dictating the awesome quotes I wanted to use in my review. This book is fantastic I cannot believe I was unaware of this author before now. I don't know why there aren't more medical romances out there, if there are I need to find them. I already know I'm going to read everything in Cari Blake's catalog. Book 2 is already available but I am so torn because the story is great but the narration was chef's kiss so I really want to experience the audio for the next book. I don't know if I'll be able to wait that long, we will see. This one is going on the list for a group read. This book is not as spicy as the content rating makes it seem but if you are telling us exactly where your tongue is going then that's beyond R-rated so I had to give it some Xs. The author has a medical background so I'm not surprised that the scenes are realistic and accurate, I am blown away at how well she articulates in an entertaining style, that is a gift. I have come across several medical thrillers and Sci-Fi fiction stories that get so clinical it's boring in the middle of what should be an exciting scene, which never happens here. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author and sharing her work with my friends. Thank you to NetGalley for this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Recommend to others: Absolutely! I want to reread this one with my husband, and I'm choosing it as a group read.
Code Blue Hearts
1. Under Southern Stars (2025)
2. No Greater Love (2025)
2.5 A Southern Stars Christmas (2025)
3. Burn Notice (2026)
4. Breaking Point (2026)
Memorable Quotes: The Code Blue Hearts series reflects the emotional reality of working in emergency medicine. Each book contains intense medical situations that may be challenging for some readers. Nothing is shown in graphic detail, and all scenes are grounded in compassion and realism. This novel contains scenes involving an emergency birth and a life-saving surgical procedure (cricothyrotomy). These moments reflect real clinical urgency and may be intense for some readers.
“Emergency department,” I answer, putting on my charge nurse voice. “Kia ora, Metro General.” That honey-warm Kiwi accent flows over the line. “Got a transport for you.” My stomach does something I refuse to acknowledge. We’ve been doing this dance over the phone for months, but hearing Jack’s voice first thing in the morning still catches me off guard. “Go ahead with report,” I manage, glancing at the digital greaseboard. Nine patients in a 45-bed ER. The night shift is practically whistling with relief. Easy for them; they’re leaving to go home. The ER gods are definitely going to make us pay for this. “Fifty-eight-year-old male, chronic back pain, demanding transport after his GP wouldn’t refill his oxy script. Vitals stable, ambulating without assistance. He’s…not pleased with the wait time.” I roll my eyes. “Sounds like a real emergency.”
I fiddle with my stethoscope, a $5 disposable special crammed in the pocket of my scrubs. It isn’t as nice as the $150 Littmann I’d bought myself as a present for successfully graduating from nursing school, but that one had been stolen after I set it down momentarily and one of the residents apparently decided no nurse would have a stethoscope that nice. Its $50 replacement had been destroyed when a psych patient boarding in the emergency department attempted to strangle me with it. So now, I make do with the el-cheapo model.
Before I can respond, Dr. Lee appears—tall, dark-haired, looking like he’s stepped off a medical drama. “Everything alright here, Sophia? Need me to charm this gentleman into compliance?” He winks at her, then turns to me with casual disinterest. “Nice accent, by the way. You from Down Under?” I manage not to wince visibly. “Otago, actually, Doctor. New Zealand.” “Oh, same thing, right?” He grins. “I’ve been to Sydney once. Loved seeing all the Sheilas on Bondi Beach.” He pronounces it “BOO-ahndy BAY-ch,” drawing out the syllables like he’s auditioning for a Crocodile Dundee reboot. Baz gives me his familiar smirk. Nothing worse than being mistaken for an Aussie when you’re a Kiwi—it’d be like confusing a Canadian for an American, only with a few hundred more years of rivalry packed in.
“JAAAAAACK!” O’Malley’s voice echoes off the concrete walls. “Oh, Jaaaaaaaack!” Martinez calls in a terrible falsetto that would have made a drag queen weep. “Uhhhh…Jack??” Thompson adds, his impression of Sophia’s radio voice surprisingly accurate. “Well, well, well,” says Kowalski, emerging from behind Engine 18 with a shit-eating grin. “Look what the Kiwi dragged in.” I surveyed the scene, taking inventory of the damage. The apparatus board now displays “Medic 402—Romeo Unit” in neat block letters. My gear locker is “decorated” with heart stickers that look suspiciously like they’ve been liberated from the pediatric trauma kit, along with what appears to be gas station roses with a note reading “From your secret admirer at Metro General.” Someone has even written “McKenzie Metro” in pink dry-erase marker on Engine 18’s bumper.
Code Blue Hearts #1
10h 5m narrated by Arya Jacobs and Kieran Rayner, 334 pages
334-page Kindle Ebook story pages 1-319
Genre: Medical Romance
Rating as a movie: NC-17 or XX for sexual content depending on editing
Featuring: Preface Content Warning - Emotional Reality of Working in Emergency Medicine, Contains Intense Emergency Situations That May Be Challenging For Some Readers, No Graphic Details, Scenes Grounded in Compassion and Realism, Emergency Birth, Life Saving Procedure - Cricothyrotomy; Dual POVs, Emergency Room at a Metro Hospital, ER Nurse, Divorcée, Paramedics, Workplace Setting, Workplace Romance, New Zealand, Single Mother, Co-parenting, Māori, Sex - Vividly Detailed, Teenagers, Soccer, Ruby, Age Gap - 6 Years, Misogyny, Secret Trope, Anytown, USA; Queenstown, Otago, New Zealand; Auckland, North Island, New Zealand; Dunedin, South Island, New Zealand; Family Dynamics, Print Version - Text Graphics, Note From Author, Blurb, Praise and Excerpt for No Greater Love: Code Blue Hearts, Book 2, Author's Links
Songs for the soundtrack: "The Giver" by Chappell Roan, "Happy Birthday To You" by Patty Hill and Mildred J. Hill
Books and Authors mentioned: The Princess Bride by William Goldman [based on] The Princess Bride: S. Morgenstern's Classic Tale of True Love and High Adventure, The "Good Parts" Version by William Goldman; Brené Brown, The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien, The Matrix by The Wachowskis, The Giver by Lois Lowry
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟⚕️🩺🏥🚑🇺🇸🇳🇿⚽️🏉
My thoughts: 📱2% 9h 53m left Chapter 2 Jack - I finally took everyone's advice and signed up for Netgally and this is my first read. It seems to be a recently published audiobook for a series that already has I think 3 books out and is available on Kindle Unlimited. Unfortunately, my Kindle is maxed out so I will not be able to read it today but the audiobook is fantastic. When I saw book 2 was available on Kindle Unlimited I was immediately thinking, I'm gonna have to read that book after this, but by the end of chapter one, I knew there is no way on doing this series without the audio. These narrators are phenomenal it is like watching a show in my head it kind of reminds me of a game Operate Now: Hospital. This book is very exciting, I’m going to have to read this series with my husband.
📱7% 9h 25m left Chapter 5 Sophia [five sophia Page 22 of 334] - I got the ebook, did a little reading along [dual reading] but this is actually better as an audiobook. The print is good, but busy compared to the audio, which sounds like a television show.
I read a book, [which was fantastic - 5 stars], just so I could free up a spot on my Kindle Unlimited and get this ebook. The audio book is fantastic it does not need an e-book but I did not feel like dictating the awesome quotes I wanted to use in my review. This book is fantastic I cannot believe I was unaware of this author before now. I don't know why there aren't more medical romances out there, if there are I need to find them. I already know I'm going to read everything in Cari Blake's catalog. Book 2 is already available but I am so torn because the story is great but the narration was chef's kiss so I really want to experience the audio for the next book. I don't know if I'll be able to wait that long, we will see. This one is going on the list for a group read. This book is not as spicy as the content rating makes it seem but if you are telling us exactly where your tongue is going then that's beyond R-rated so I had to give it some Xs. The author has a medical background so I'm not surprised that the scenes are realistic and accurate, I am blown away at how well she articulates in an entertaining style, that is a gift. I have come across several medical thrillers and Sci-Fi fiction stories that get so clinical it's boring in the middle of what should be an exciting scene, which never happens here. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author and sharing her work with my friends. Thank you to NetGalley for this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Recommend to others: Absolutely! I want to reread this one with my husband, and I'm choosing it as a group read.
Code Blue Hearts
1. Under Southern Stars (2025)
2. No Greater Love (2025)
2.5 A Southern Stars Christmas (2025)
3. Burn Notice (2026)
4. Breaking Point (2026)
Memorable Quotes: The Code Blue Hearts series reflects the emotional reality of working in emergency medicine. Each book contains intense medical situations that may be challenging for some readers. Nothing is shown in graphic detail, and all scenes are grounded in compassion and realism. This novel contains scenes involving an emergency birth and a life-saving surgical procedure (cricothyrotomy). These moments reflect real clinical urgency and may be intense for some readers.
“Emergency department,” I answer, putting on my charge nurse voice. “Kia ora, Metro General.” That honey-warm Kiwi accent flows over the line. “Got a transport for you.” My stomach does something I refuse to acknowledge. We’ve been doing this dance over the phone for months, but hearing Jack’s voice first thing in the morning still catches me off guard. “Go ahead with report,” I manage, glancing at the digital greaseboard. Nine patients in a 45-bed ER. The night shift is practically whistling with relief. Easy for them; they’re leaving to go home. The ER gods are definitely going to make us pay for this. “Fifty-eight-year-old male, chronic back pain, demanding transport after his GP wouldn’t refill his oxy script. Vitals stable, ambulating without assistance. He’s…not pleased with the wait time.” I roll my eyes. “Sounds like a real emergency.”
I fiddle with my stethoscope, a $5 disposable special crammed in the pocket of my scrubs. It isn’t as nice as the $150 Littmann I’d bought myself as a present for successfully graduating from nursing school, but that one had been stolen after I set it down momentarily and one of the residents apparently decided no nurse would have a stethoscope that nice. Its $50 replacement had been destroyed when a psych patient boarding in the emergency department attempted to strangle me with it. So now, I make do with the el-cheapo model.
Before I can respond, Dr. Lee appears—tall, dark-haired, looking like he’s stepped off a medical drama. “Everything alright here, Sophia? Need me to charm this gentleman into compliance?” He winks at her, then turns to me with casual disinterest. “Nice accent, by the way. You from Down Under?” I manage not to wince visibly. “Otago, actually, Doctor. New Zealand.” “Oh, same thing, right?” He grins. “I’ve been to Sydney once. Loved seeing all the Sheilas on Bondi Beach.” He pronounces it “BOO-ahndy BAY-ch,” drawing out the syllables like he’s auditioning for a Crocodile Dundee reboot. Baz gives me his familiar smirk. Nothing worse than being mistaken for an Aussie when you’re a Kiwi—it’d be like confusing a Canadian for an American, only with a few hundred more years of rivalry packed in.
“JAAAAAACK!” O’Malley’s voice echoes off the concrete walls. “Oh, Jaaaaaaaack!” Martinez calls in a terrible falsetto that would have made a drag queen weep. “Uhhhh…Jack??” Thompson adds, his impression of Sophia’s radio voice surprisingly accurate. “Well, well, well,” says Kowalski, emerging from behind Engine 18 with a shit-eating grin. “Look what the Kiwi dragged in.” I surveyed the scene, taking inventory of the damage. The apparatus board now displays “Medic 402—Romeo Unit” in neat block letters. My gear locker is “decorated” with heart stickers that look suspiciously like they’ve been liberated from the pediatric trauma kit, along with what appears to be gas station roses with a note reading “From your secret admirer at Metro General.” Someone has even written “McKenzie Metro” in pink dry-erase marker on Engine 18’s bumper.
January 9, 2026
The story, without spoilers is man and women meet, fall in love obstacles get in the way, man acts like an absolute tt and is this resolved. I loved the vast majority of the audio book and could not stop listening or thinking about it. There is a believable love story, split into one chapter told from her perspective and one from his. Accents are done… some more interesting than others but I enjoyed both narrators. The relationship between mother and daughter was lovely but sometimes I struggled with the relationship between the man and the woman’s daughter. There is a lot of negatives about the ex husband but if a man acted towards my daughter how Jack does to Maddison I would run a mile. Al the red flags are flying. I think the end part which is seen as a positive is also a massive red flag for me. I enjoyed listening to the audiobook book, thank you to NetGalley for providing this it for my consideration, this is all my own rambling, honest and personal opinion. This was 9 and a half hours long, I accidentally requested it, I am a mental health nurse and whilst I worked in Accident and Emergency, AKA ER in the 90s I had no urge to revisit it!
I struggled with the ending and I wonder if it was because I am a nurse and I am coming up to retirement. I did struggle with some of their life choices but I think most people would not.
I was a reluctant starter, listened to it during an hours drive… laughed all the way there and back. In 2 days and an hour I listened to the whole book, cramming it in wherever I could. I can enjoy a romantic book but one set in an ER… oh it was just so much fun.
Would I listen to this again, I don’t think so, hence the 4 stars am I glad I accidentally requested it, 100%. If you enjoy a romantic, funny book with excellent narrators and appealing characters this is the one for you. I have never enjoyed an audio book so much. Would I listen to another audio book by this author? Yes but I would love one that is not medically based.
There are scenes of detailed sex which are loving with some very very light restraint.
There are lots of coercive control details and finical, sexual and emotional abuse within a past relationship, some might not label it as abuse.
There is details of incel behaviour which could also be triggering.
There are lots of procedural and trauma scenes, I am not sure if people would find them triggering. There is one about death of a woman and baby and a difficult birth. I don’t think it’s that graphic but might be problematic for some.
All in all if you like this type of book id recommend, the visuals of New Zealand were amazing. If you just like romantic books I would also recommend this audio book because it is fun and so well read, I’m definitely going to look out for other books from these narrators.
I struggled with the ending and I wonder if it was because I am a nurse and I am coming up to retirement. I did struggle with some of their life choices but I think most people would not.
I was a reluctant starter, listened to it during an hours drive… laughed all the way there and back. In 2 days and an hour I listened to the whole book, cramming it in wherever I could. I can enjoy a romantic book but one set in an ER… oh it was just so much fun.
Would I listen to this again, I don’t think so, hence the 4 stars am I glad I accidentally requested it, 100%. If you enjoy a romantic, funny book with excellent narrators and appealing characters this is the one for you. I have never enjoyed an audio book so much. Would I listen to another audio book by this author? Yes but I would love one that is not medically based.
There are scenes of detailed sex which are loving with some very very light restraint.
There are lots of coercive control details and finical, sexual and emotional abuse within a past relationship, some might not label it as abuse.
There is details of incel behaviour which could also be triggering.
There are lots of procedural and trauma scenes, I am not sure if people would find them triggering. There is one about death of a woman and baby and a difficult birth. I don’t think it’s that graphic but might be problematic for some.
All in all if you like this type of book id recommend, the visuals of New Zealand were amazing. If you just like romantic books I would also recommend this audio book because it is fun and so well read, I’m definitely going to look out for other books from these narrators.
August 9, 2025
This book is so very good and I am so glad that I got a chance to read it. This is a very special love story that you have to read and I highly recommend that you do. You have heard of love at first sight and now we have love at first "sound". You know how some people are just drawn to accents unlike our own, like a British accent, French accent, Spanish accent or a New Zealand accent. It does make some people all dreamy eyed to hear some of these accents that is what happened to Sophia and Jack. Check out their story and let me know what you think.
Sophia Mitchell is a very strong woman and she is determined to make it through when times get rough. She is a Emergency Department Head Nurse and is cool headed through anything that comes her way. She has survived a toxic marriage, a brutal divorce and the chaos of the ER. She has a 15 year old daughter Madison and is determined to become mother of the year or so it seems, she does everything that she can to be the best mother possible. And yes she is surviving being a single mother. She has built a wall around her heart and only lets her daughter inside that wall and she is especially not interested in letting any man get close to her again. And then when she answers the radio and the paramedic on the other end comes back with a kiwi accent she is lost. She is going to be teased for the way they talked on the radio. Jack McKenzie was supposed to be just another EMT dropping patients off at Metro General. But he transferred to another station so he could be at this hospital more, he brings me coffee just the way I like it, he gets along great with my daughter and his accent does strange things to my insides. Slowly he is dismantling every wall she builds and soon she agrees to go on a date. Sophia is 38 and Jack is 32 so that means she is 6 years older then him. Can they make a relationship work? Does Sophia even want to try with the way her first marriage turned out? What will happen next?
Sophia Mitchell is a very strong woman and she is determined to make it through when times get rough. She is a Emergency Department Head Nurse and is cool headed through anything that comes her way. She has survived a toxic marriage, a brutal divorce and the chaos of the ER. She has a 15 year old daughter Madison and is determined to become mother of the year or so it seems, she does everything that she can to be the best mother possible. And yes she is surviving being a single mother. She has built a wall around her heart and only lets her daughter inside that wall and she is especially not interested in letting any man get close to her again. And then when she answers the radio and the paramedic on the other end comes back with a kiwi accent she is lost. She is going to be teased for the way they talked on the radio. Jack McKenzie was supposed to be just another EMT dropping patients off at Metro General. But he transferred to another station so he could be at this hospital more, he brings me coffee just the way I like it, he gets along great with my daughter and his accent does strange things to my insides. Slowly he is dismantling every wall she builds and soon she agrees to go on a date. Sophia is 38 and Jack is 32 so that means she is 6 years older then him. Can they make a relationship work? Does Sophia even want to try with the way her first marriage turned out? What will happen next?
December 30, 2025
Under Southern Stars is one of my favorite romances I’ve picked up this season!
The story opens fast: a chaotic ER, sharp adrenaline, and immediate chemistry between Sophia and Jack. The dual POV is tight and purposeful, giving both of them emotional dimension without slowing the pace. I love that the romance doesn’t hesitate or rely on slow-burn dithering. These two meet, connect, and lean into it like adults with history and damage, and it works.
The audiobook is exceptional. Arya Jacobs, an accomplished Australian-Filipino performer now based in the U.S., gives Sophia a grounded, vulnerable strength that fits the character perfectly. Kieran Rayner, an award-winning Kiwi operatic baritone, brings Jack to life with a warm New Zealand accent and effortless switches into American and even Southern inflections. Their performances carry the chemistry, tension, and tenderness between the characters in a way that feels natural, not theatrical.
The writing itself is crisp and emotionally intelligent. The pacing stays tight, the early relationship unfolds with momentum and clarity, and the “one of them has a secret” tension adds the right kind of pressure instead of cheap drama. I appreciate a romance that respects the reader’s time without stalling, no contrived misunderstandings. Just two well-drawn characters navigating attraction, fear, and vulnerability.
Highly recommended for anyone who:
- prefers romance without slow-burn drag
- enjoys dual POV that actually enhances the story
- wants a believable, emotionally mature connection
- loves audiobooks where both narrators elevate the material
- likes early-relationship exploration with real stakes
I’m loving every minute of this audiobook and already know I’ll be recommending it widely.
The story opens fast: a chaotic ER, sharp adrenaline, and immediate chemistry between Sophia and Jack. The dual POV is tight and purposeful, giving both of them emotional dimension without slowing the pace. I love that the romance doesn’t hesitate or rely on slow-burn dithering. These two meet, connect, and lean into it like adults with history and damage, and it works.
The audiobook is exceptional. Arya Jacobs, an accomplished Australian-Filipino performer now based in the U.S., gives Sophia a grounded, vulnerable strength that fits the character perfectly. Kieran Rayner, an award-winning Kiwi operatic baritone, brings Jack to life with a warm New Zealand accent and effortless switches into American and even Southern inflections. Their performances carry the chemistry, tension, and tenderness between the characters in a way that feels natural, not theatrical.
The writing itself is crisp and emotionally intelligent. The pacing stays tight, the early relationship unfolds with momentum and clarity, and the “one of them has a secret” tension adds the right kind of pressure instead of cheap drama. I appreciate a romance that respects the reader’s time without stalling, no contrived misunderstandings. Just two well-drawn characters navigating attraction, fear, and vulnerability.
Highly recommended for anyone who:
- prefers romance without slow-burn drag
- enjoys dual POV that actually enhances the story
- wants a believable, emotionally mature connection
- loves audiobooks where both narrators elevate the material
- likes early-relationship exploration with real stakes
I’m loving every minute of this audiobook and already know I’ll be recommending it widely.
December 23, 2025
I truly enjoyed this book! I listened to the audiobook and the male narrator is from New Zealand so Jack's accent is authentic (swoon). Grab your tissues though, this one might make you cry.
ER nurse Sophia Mitchell is a recently divorced single mom. Paramedic Jack McKenzie has always had a crush on her, but when he realizes she's no longer in her toxic marriage, he transfers to another station to see her more. His good looks, smiling kindness, medical competence, and his New Zealand accent hook Sophia, and their romance blossoms quickly and he's great with her daughter Madison. Except Jack is keeping a secret from her that could destroy everything they're building if he doesn't come clean!
My husband works in healthcare, and all of the scenarios and medical terms they use are accurate... it shows that the author has a medical background. Which is a nice change of pace!
The audiobook is done in dual narration; each narrator voices all of the characters in their chapters. It works well for the most part... My one very small complaint about the male narrator is that he does unnecessary accents for a few of the side characters and his other accents aren't great. He gives his coworkers O'Malley and Rodriguez Irish and Hispanic accents, but I know plenty of people with those last names that do not have any kind of accent when speaking English. Plus his accent when voicing Rodriguez sounds like a Spaniard combined with count Dracula. Fortunately, there are very few scenes where that is an issue, so it was pretty easy to overlook.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the ALC I received in exchange for my honest review.
ER nurse Sophia Mitchell is a recently divorced single mom. Paramedic Jack McKenzie has always had a crush on her, but when he realizes she's no longer in her toxic marriage, he transfers to another station to see her more. His good looks, smiling kindness, medical competence, and his New Zealand accent hook Sophia, and their romance blossoms quickly and he's great with her daughter Madison. Except Jack is keeping a secret from her that could destroy everything they're building if he doesn't come clean!
My husband works in healthcare, and all of the scenarios and medical terms they use are accurate... it shows that the author has a medical background. Which is a nice change of pace!
The audiobook is done in dual narration; each narrator voices all of the characters in their chapters. It works well for the most part... My one very small complaint about the male narrator is that he does unnecessary accents for a few of the side characters and his other accents aren't great. He gives his coworkers O'Malley and Rodriguez Irish and Hispanic accents, but I know plenty of people with those last names that do not have any kind of accent when speaking English. Plus his accent when voicing Rodriguez sounds like a Spaniard combined with count Dracula. Fortunately, there are very few scenes where that is an issue, so it was pretty easy to overlook.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the ALC I received in exchange for my honest review.
December 26, 2025
There are so many wonderful things about this book that it is hard to know where to start. It’s about fully functional grown people who are trying to keep it all together in the best way they can, shows so much well deserved love and respect to nurses and paramedics, highlights the scary dark side of the online manosphere, family dynamics, divorce, the mother daughter relationship. family business, navigating new love, secrets and when they come into the light, wonderful characters, sweet, but overwhelmingly nosy and immature funny colleagues and more.
Sophia Mitchell keeps calm no matter what is happening in her personal or professional life. She’s a charge nurse in one of the busiest ERs in the country, trying to navigate dealing with her narcissist ex-husband who is not a good person and is an even worse father and is trying to navigate new potential love while dealing with her wildly nosy and invasive colleagues. She’s an incredible woman, friend and mother. Jack is amazing, but he holds some really important things a little too close and is trying to figure it all out. Can they navigate it all when secrets rise to the surface? Of course as this is a romance so we get the happily ever after we read these for, but this one was fabulous and I really hope the rest of the series is released on audio as well. This was my intro to this author and I really enjoyed her work. Definitely going to be reading and or listening to more of her work.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.com in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Sophia Mitchell keeps calm no matter what is happening in her personal or professional life. She’s a charge nurse in one of the busiest ERs in the country, trying to navigate dealing with her narcissist ex-husband who is not a good person and is an even worse father and is trying to navigate new potential love while dealing with her wildly nosy and invasive colleagues. She’s an incredible woman, friend and mother. Jack is amazing, but he holds some really important things a little too close and is trying to figure it all out. Can they navigate it all when secrets rise to the surface? Of course as this is a romance so we get the happily ever after we read these for, but this one was fabulous and I really hope the rest of the series is released on audio as well. This was my intro to this author and I really enjoyed her work. Definitely going to be reading and or listening to more of her work.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.com in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 18, 2025
ER Charge Nurse Sophia Mitchell survived a marriage that changed when her husband became controlling towards both her and their teen daughter, Madison. There are still issues with her ex, but she is her own woman once again. Her job is stressful, but she works with an excellent staff of doctors and support personnel. Recently, paramedic Jack McKenzie has lightened the ER atmosphere with his charming accent and the coffee he brings for Sophia. When a friendship develops between them, is this her chance at an honest relationship? Jack is falling for Sophia, but he hasn’t been truthful with her as he is not simply Jack the paramedic from New Zealand, he is the heir to the billion-dollar McKenzie Wine Corporation. He knows that he should tell her of his family, but a previous relationship ended when the woman’s only interest was his money, not him. When he asks her and her daughter to accompany him to his home country, time is running out on his deadline to explain about his family. Will she be upset that he hadn’t told her earlier? Will she realize that Jack has always wanted to be seen as Jack and not the heir to his family’s business? The characters were amazing, her strength dealing with her ex and Jack stepping up to protect them from her ex. I can’t wait to read the second book in this series! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews