Afternoon Delight

by Dani Collins

Freshly divorced and nearing forty, Meg regrets making all the safe choices. When her best friend needs surgery, Meg puts her accounting career on hold to run her friend’s racy adult toy shop—but her vanilla life never prepared her for this!

At thirty-two, Zak leaves the tech world for his dad’s antique store, wanting time with him before dementia erases his father’s memories. He’s Meg’s landlord, but she becomes his confidante, distracting him from his troubles with her suggestive puns and amusing misadventures.

Flirty banter leads to test-driving toys together, but Meg knows they won’t last. Their age-gap puts them in different life-stages and she lives in Toronto. A few afternoons of delight can’t change her life. Can they?

Afternoon Delight is a stand-alone, slow-burn to steamy, neighbors-to-lovers, older woman/younger man romance. No cliffhangers, no cheating, just laughs, chemistry, and heart.

Genres: Romance

378 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 19, 2025

About the author

USA Today Bestselling author Dani Collins thrives on giving readers emotional, compelling, heart-soaring romance with laughter and heat, just like real life.

Mostly she writes contemporary romance, but she has also writes Historical Western, erotic romance, and romcom.

Want to be notified of Dani's latest release along with getting sneak peeks, price drops, behind the scene's gossip and other special offers? Join Dani's VIP list. Join Now!

Reviews

[Kate Dash · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sometimes you pick up a romance and expect mildly amusing banter… then suddenly you’re giggling out loud at sex puns you can’t even repeat in public. That was my journey with Afternoon Delight.
˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆ ˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆ ˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆
Meg, freshly divorced and approaching forty, agrees to run her friend’s adult toy store while said friend is in the hospital. (Because nothing screams “midlife crisis” like being dropped headfirst into a world of lube and lingerie, right?) What could’ve been awkward or even cringey ended up being surprisingly sweet, funny, and heartfelt.
Then enters Zak—the younger landlord with daddy issues (literally, he’s caring for his father with dementia). He and Meg spark right away, and between antique furniture metaphors and adult toy demonstrations, their flirty banter becomes the highlight of the book.
˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆ ˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆ ˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆
Tropes:
❤︎ Older woman / younger man (age gap that actually *works*)
❤︎ Neighbors-to-lovers
❤︎ Slow burn → spicy payoff
❤︎ Rediscovering intimacy & body confidence
A romance that says, “yes, women over 35 are allowed to enjoy life and sex, thank you very much”
What I loved most? Meg’s journey wasn’t just about finding romance—it was about learning intimacy on her own terms. She’s allowed to want more than a safe life. She’s allowed to laugh, experiment, make mistakes, and find joy in desire. And Zak? He never once made her feel less-than for her age or her hesitations. Honestly, he was a cinnamon roll with just the right amount of spice.
The spice itself? Well-paced, not overwhelming, just enough to feel steamy without overshadowing the humor and heart. And again—the puns. I could write a whole post just ranking them.
˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆ ˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆ ˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆ ˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆ ˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆ ˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆ ˚★⋆｡˚ ⋆
If you want a lighthearted, pun-filled, slow burn that still packs emotional depth, give Afternoon Delight a shot. It’s not just about sex toys—it’s about rediscovering yourself, laughing along the way, and realizing love doesn’t care what age you are.

Thank you Grey PR for opportunity to read that ARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Dani Collins]

Dear Reader,

Have you been craving lighter, funnier reads? Something with an older heroine who is no longer taking any guff and isn't afraid to say so? I have. That's why I wrote Afternoon Delight.

If you're a fan of my Harlequin Presents, you'll still find some angsty moments in this, but the focus is more on Meg trying to figure out her life post-divorce. She's wants to make sure everyone around her is okay before she confronts her own issues, so she takes over her friend's store then falls for the younger man in the shop next door.

Zak is such a sweetheart. Some might call him a cinnamon-roll, I guess? I just wrote a guy I thought Meg deserved. He's funny and thoughtful and gorgeous. He falls for her fast, but he's dealing with his own life stuff, making it hard for either of them to see a way to be together.

Since I like a spicy read myself, I gave them an afternoon of delight then let them figure things out from there. If you like tenderness with your spice, you'll love this story.

My hope is that you get a lot of laughs as you accompany them on their journey and close the book with a sigh of contentment.

Happy reading,
Dani

P.S. Did you know you can order direct from me? Buy on Dani's Bookshop here.

[Catrina Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!! This is a great book if you love a good slow burn and friends to lovers. The flirting and the yearning 🔥🔥. I loved that it had an older FMC and her figuring out what to do with her life now. The spicy scenes were 🥵🥵. Finished this book in one day!

Thank you for letting me be on the ARC team

[Heather Ochoa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is incredible! I particularly enjoyed how the characters were introduced—not just by name but with a background, making it easier to remember who they were when they reappeared. I also loved that it’s about 30+ year-old adults living their lives and facing their own challenges, yet still coming together to check on a friend. The book was funny, raw, and had a touch of spice! It’s the first time I’ve read anything by Dani Collins, but I’ll definitely be adding more of her books to my TBR list.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Selfless Meg puts her own business on hold for her friend while she has surgery. She takes charge of her friend’s business that is a bit racier than she is used to ,to say the least. An adult toy shop. Newly divorced and hitting forty ,it’s about time she got naughty ,let her inhibitions free and there’s one man on the horizon to help her just that. Zak also leaves the corporate world behind to spend time helping his dad with his antique store as dementia has taken hold and he wants to make memories with him before his memories go altogether . He’s also Meg’s landlord ,they get on and she becomes his confidant and more . They have flirty fun trying those toys out .is there a chance of something more? You’ll have to find out .just know that this hits the spot and I really love the plot.Dementia, Alzheimer’s is a cruel disease and I’ve had to live through it with my own father. The author writes very well with great humour and heart. Sexual pundits and innuendo have you screaming and I’m hearing them saying as they’re putting the toys together - where does this end go ? I know ,I know . It’s this book it’s clever . Gets you in the mood for a laugh ,a gaff or two .It’s got heart and a bit of steam so it’ll do …. That’s a Yorkshire lass for you Dani Collins . Interpretation- it’s a brilliant read and I read it with greed . Couldn’t put it down ,now even my tuppence is emitting a frown until my next fix … Best get writing and quick. Slow burn with Zak makes me yearn for him back .

[Lawlah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author and Grey’s Promotions for this eARC!

This was a fine, enjoyable read. I really liked the chemistry between Zak and Meg—their banter was the icing on the cake and kept me smiling throughout.

I appreciate the author’s writing style, the steady pacing, and the well-developed character growth. I also loved the thoughtful balance and representation of different sexual orientations and identities—it was woven in naturally and respectfully.

It’s a 3.25-star read for me, and yes, I recommend it!

[kbn1031 · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Afternoon Delight by Dani Collins

Meg's life has been turned upside down, but she has decided to embrace it. She's recently divorced and is visiting her hometown to help her mom clean out her house. She's also helping run her friend's "toy" store while she has surgery and recovers. What she didn't plan on? Meeting Zak, the landlords son. Zak has recently ended an engagement and moved home to help take care of his dad, who has dementia, and help run the family antique store. They become friends and look forward to seeing each other during their work days. Slowly, they become something more, even though neither of them wants to be in a relationship during this difficult phase of their lives. Can they put aside their reservations and find happiness together?

This was an easy read full of excellent banter and humor. The side characters are fully formed and make the story better. It was wonderful to read about an "older" character figuring out what she really wants out of life. Meg's kids are perfectly sarcastic, just like her. It was great seeing Meg and her mom work on their relationship, too. There's no 3rd act break-up, just a bit of long distance. And, of course, we get a HEA. The epilogue was so good!!!

I received an ARC of this book, but these opinions are my own. I would like to thank the author, Dani Collins, and Grey's Promotions for allowing me the privilege of reading her work. ❤️

[Fernanda Dzib · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️

First of all I want to say thanks to Greys Promotion and the author for sending me the eARC of this book ✨

That being said, I was very excited when I read the blurb of this book because, I woman who just turned forty met a younger man when she’s helping with her best friend’s sex toy? I was sold 🙂‍↔️✨

But then, when I started this story, I was so surprised in a good way by the depth of this book, it wasn’t just about a woman finding herself again after a divorce and quitting her job, it was about family, found family, grief, changes and more. Every character of this book had a reason to be in this story, Shelby with her new life in college being her own person, Roddie moving with Meg and finding things he likes and also being part of the LGBTQIA+ family, Meg’s mom having a hard time to also finding herself after lost his husband, Georgia needing a surgery and not knowing what’s happening after that, Zak’s father dealing with dementia and how that affects to Zack and his sister Zara, and I could go on and on because this books is so much more than just a cute rom-com, which is because I absolute loved every single thing about this story!! I really loved reading all this characters side stories and how Meg and Zak could find the way to be together even after all the things they were dealing with personally and together 🥹❤️‍🩹

And of course the epilogue made me cry because how cute was that?😭❤️

This was my first book by the author but I’m very sure won’t be the last ✨

[Gina J · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a cute read with a good plot. The pacing slowed down in a few spots, but it always picked back up and kept me interested. The slow burn meet-to-lovers romance was sweet, with some funny moments, and I really enjoyed the MMC, total cinnamon roll vibes. It's a light and charming story if you’re in the

[Rielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I definitely did not know what to expect going into this, but I just knew it was going to be good. Glad it met my expectations and more 😍🔥

⭐ Rating Criteria ⭐

🩷 Plot and Writing Style:

This was such an entertaining read. It had the perfect balance of romance, emotion and humour - one chapter you’d be hit with a wave of sympathy, but you’d be laughing by the next one 🥰

I liked the concept of the story - it’s empowering to read about Meg starting over in her late 30s, albeit not without the normal hesitancy that everyone would probably have.

Another thing, I love the fact that there wasn’t much angst, apart from the one already part of the plot. But, in terms of the usual third-act thing, there wasn’t any of that, and I loved it because it made it such an easy read.

🩷 Characters:

I really enjoyed the dynamic of all the characters - of course, I especially loved Zak and Meg, but the found family trope in this was so cute ❤️

As for the romance, it obviously started as insta-lust, which Meg also actually admitted to in the story. But, I love how, from their first meet, they already had that hilarious back-and-forth which would continue on for the entirety of the book.

From the start, you could tell how Zak felt so stress-free with Meg, and that’s how their relationship kinda starts. Both of them enjoy each other’s company so much, and have so much pent up tension with their sex puns in the toy shop - no better way to finally release all of that than to do a test-run of a toy together 😉

🩷 Overall:

Honestly, this is probably one of the most entertaining stories I’ve read in a while, and I’m so excited to read Beached Wedding which the author plugged at the end of the story.

Thank you so much to Grey's Promotions and Dani for allowing me to share my honest review of this ARC ❤️

[Patty Duplechin · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love a hot, and spicy read this one’s for you. You never go wrong with reading Dani Collins books. After her divorce Meg who’s nearing forty is ready for something different. Meg puts her accounting career on hold to help her best friend. She’ll run the friend’s adult toy shop while her friend recuperates. Zak, who’s thirty-two is home to help run his father’s antique business, all the while wanting to make memories before dementia erases it all. He left his tech world to be with his father. Now as Meg’s landlord, he ends up being her tell-all friend. Even though she’s a little old and knows it can’t last, they end up with some afternoon delights. She’ll be heading back home while he stays here. Will she be ready for the delights she has with him? Can they let it end when it’s time? Both of their lives are different and complicated. What will happen? Will Zak make his memories with his dad? Will Meg go home a different and happier person. It’s a must read. Characters are great. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily

[KatyReads22 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well…

I laughed out loud throughout the story. I loved every character. I loved the setting, the dialogue, the free spirit. Afternoon Delight had a seamless blend of serious and funny- I loved that I was able to laugh and cry because it was both realistic and relatable as well as entertaining and fun. I enjoyed that both characters loved people fiercely, accepted they weren’t perfect, and didn’t expect everyone else to be perfect. In my mind, it made their love and the story stronger.

Don’t read this one for angst and yearning- but DO read it. Might not have gotten the slow burn I expected, but sometimes unexpected is a treat. I am totally on the Dani Collins train now... can’t wait to read another.

[Sarah_A6210 · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a really sweet and funny book.

I haven’t read from this author before and I have a tendency not to read blurbs too much so go into books a little blind.

I really enjoyed the concept of this book, the FMC Meg is a post divorce mum of two who is helping her friend run her shop while she gets some medical treatment. Nothing to it right? Only her friend owns an adult toy shop. It’s not that Meg is a prude, but she grew up in a small town where her mother made sure she ‘followed the rules’ so getting pregnant with her first boyfriend at 19. Of course they got married, she forgave him the first time he cheated and they had a ‘happy marriage’.

Meg is struggling with a lifetime of people pleasing and being conscious of her ‘outward’ look, she’s slowly learning how to think about what she likes, not give a damn about anyone’s opinions and what her next steps in life are going to be, a life that is about what she wants and not about where she’s ‘needed’.

Zak works in the shop next door, his dad owns the building the shops are housed in and he’s moved back home to help after his dad’s medical condition and to help his sister lighten her load. It’s not easy to watch your parent disappear in front of your eyes.

Zak and Meg hit it off, sure he’s younger than her but they have an easy connection and both laugh at the double ended jokes that come from them when they’re in the store.

Zak doesn’t want to be selfish and use Meg as a life raft while he becomes a full time career for his dad but he can’t help how he feels for her and Meg is trying not to give her life into helping someone else on instinct and to decide what she wants, even if it’s the younger hot neighbour with a complicated future in front of him.

I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the journey of trying to rewrite a lifetime of people pleasing and stereotypes. I loved the easy nature of Zak and Meg when they were together and the banter was top tier.

The reason I gave this a 3.5⭐️ rather than more is because I wanted more. There was some filler but the dialogue was so good no matter the characters that I just wanted more. I felt like Zak and Meg were just getting to the best part of them being together and I just wanted it to last a little longer before the book finished!

It was a really easy read, I found some of the phrases in the spice a little too technical rather than ‘spice’ but otherwise I genuinely enjoyed this book. I was just a little disappointed I didn’t get to enjoy more of them as a couple before it ended. I would have loved a longer Epilogue or an extra one.

Good read and some good banter.

I was very fortunate to receive this book as an arc but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thank you always for the opportunity to read these books.

[my.selected.stories · Rating 4 out of 5]

[4/5] ⭐️ Banter, Sparks & Sweet Surprises

ARC Review – Thank you for the opportunity to read this story early. Here’s my short review:

📖 Plot
Afternoon Delight follows Meg, a woman who’s always putting others first, as she navigates helping her family, managing her life after divorce, and unexpectedly stepping into her friend’s adult store. Enter Zak, the landlord’s son, who’s back home to help his dad. Sparks fly instantly, and their connection grows as they spend time together—sometimes sweet, sometimes a little spicy. The story is easy-going and fun, with just the right mix of humor, romance, and personal growth.

📖 Characters
Meg is caring, relatable, and surprisingly adventurous when pushed outside her comfort zone. Zak is charming, patient, and a bit cheeky, making him a perfect partner for Meg. Their banter is one of the highlights—it’s witty, flirty, and often made me smile. The supporting characters, especially Meg’s kids, add extra warmth and personality to the story.

📖 Worldbuilding & Setting
The adult store setting was handled in a tasteful, playful way, and it gave the story a unique twist. The small-town vibes and family connections make the world feel cozy and lived-in, while the professional and personal stakes for both leads keep things interesting.

📖 Writing Style
The writing is smooth, easy to follow, and flows well with the pacing of a slow-burn romance. The balance between humor, dialogue, and intimate moments worked nicely, and the romance felt natural and believable.

📖 Recommendation
A light, charming romance with witty banter, relatable characters, and just the right amount of spice. Perfect if you like slow-burn romance with heart, humor, and clever dialogue.

I received a digital ARC of 'Afternoon Delight' by Dani Collins in exchange for an honest review.

[Kady M · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll be honest, when I started this book, I wasn't completely sure what to expect. Then after getting a little way in, my brain was going "eeeep, this one might be too many hot peppers for me."🌶️ BUT it was perfect! The best balance of spice, romance, witty banter, and don't even get me started on the PUNS! I literally laughed out loud several times.

Meg, almost 40, is a helper. She puts other's first, all the time, even when it may not be in her best interest. Her current helping hand is running her best friend's adult toy store while she is out sick. This may be just a bit out of Meg's comfort zone but she dives in with minimal hesitation. Zac, 32, has left his tech job to help his father who is struggling with dementia. It's hard, his life is not really his own at this point, but he loves his dad and wants to do his best for him. As it works out, the adult toy store Meg is now in charge of and the building where Zak is the landlord, are one in the same. This leaves them with a lot of time to get to know each other, exchange multiple sexual puns daily, have coffee and meals together and ultimately become each other's person.

I love the relationship between Meg and Zak- there is an age-gap, but it's not one that makes you cringe. Even though they are in different stages of life, there is an ease to their relationship that will make you root for them. Their chemistry is undeniable and you can feel their connection through Dani’s writing! I love when that happens 💕

I would highly recommend this book! I assure you, the pepper rating is not nearly what I thought it was going to be- there are a few scenes and they are just the right amount of spice!

Thank you Grey’s Promotions and Dani Collins for the eARC! All opinions are my own.

[Alexia Gauthier · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Spice, Sass & Second Chances”
4.25 ⭐️ | 3.5 🌶️

If you’re looking for a romance that blends heart, humor, and heat with just the right amount of emotional depth, Afternoon Delight by Dani Collins absolutely delivers. This slow-burn, business neighbors-to-lovers gem brings together two beautifully real characters navigating unexpected turns in life and love.

Meg is a relatable, refreshingly mature heroine—newly divorced, a bit hesitant, but never dull. Watching her step out of her vanilla comfort zone and into a world that challenges both her assumptions and desires is as funny as it is empowering. Her chemistry with Zak? Off the charts. From playful puns to shared vulnerability, their connection builds with tenderness, laughter, and just the right amount of sizzle.

Zak is charming, grounded, and emotionally available (yes, PUH-LEASE). The age-gap dynamic is handled thoughtfully and adds another layer of authenticity to their relationship. Plus, the backdrop of an adult toy shop and the warm community vibe around it gives the story a fun, unique flavor without ever feeling gimmicky.

There’s no unnecessary drama here; just two people growing, healing, and exploring connection in a way that feels modern, real, and refreshingly low on angst. The banter sparkles, the steamy scenes are deliciously written, and the emotional beats land exactly where they should.

4.25 ⭐️ and a solid 3.5 🌶️ for a read that’s flirty, heartfelt, and full of delightful surprises. Definitely recommend for fans of character-driven romance with equal parts spice and soul.

A big thank you to Grey’s Promotions for the ARC e-copy, and wishing all the best to Dani Collins on release day, August 19th!

[Nanasbookreviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review
Afternoon Delight by Dani Collins – A reverse age gap romance

Meg has always been someone who puts others first. When her father fell ill, she returned home to care for her parents. After her divorce, she moved in with her mother to help pack and sell the family house. When her best friend got sick, she stepped in to run her store. This time, though, the challenge is a bit different—the store is an adult shop. It’s definitely outside Meg’s comfort zone, but it also brings a refreshing change.

Enter Zak, the landlord's son. A younger man who, like Meg, has returned home to help his father. From the moment they meet, there's a spark. Their quirky humor, the setting of the adult store, and their undeniable chemistry set the stage for a sweet and spicy connection. What starts as mutual support soon evolves into a deeper bond... and a little product testing, too.

Their relationship develops naturally, but the future remains uncertain. Are they just a temporary escape from their hectic lives, or could this become something real?

This is a beautifully entertaining story with just the right amount of emotional depth. The plot is engaging, with solid world-building and well-developed, relatable characters. The romance is a slow burn, with just a few intimate scenes—spicy but not over the top. Meg and Zak have great chemistry, but what stood out most were their conversations. They felt authentic and genuinely enjoyable. I especially loved that Meg’s kids inherited her sense of humor—it added a delightful layer to the story.

If you enjoy romance with clever dialogue, relatable characters, and a hint of heat, this one’s for you.

[The Booktrovert Records · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
🩷 Afternoon Delight ✨
Written By: @danicollinsauthor

Overall: 4/5
Overall plot: 4/5
Character development: 4/5
Pace: 4/5
World building: 4/5
Spice 🌶️: 2/5

Thank you, Dani, for allowing me to be a part of your ARC team and read Afternoon Delight ahead of its release date.

This is the first time I’ve read Dani’s work and I’m more than happy to read more! There was such great character growth, the navigation that is the journey of life especially when they’re not where they had wanted to be and just make the best of it.

Meg is such a giving friend, mom and just a great person! I’d want her as my friend. She puts her accounting career on hold to help out her best friend who’s going through medical problems that can’t keep her racy adult toy shop running - so she steps in to help. She’s freshly divorced, nearing forty, and is wondering why she took all the safe routes when she ended up where she is.

Zak leaves the tech world at thirty-two to cover his dad’s antique store because he wanted more time with him as dementia continues to progress faster than he and his twin sister had through. He happens to be Meg’s landlord but through her newfound propensity to provide a distraction using suggestive puns and musings, they form a friendship.

Understanding, flirty banter, and an undeniable attraction to each other, they find themselves testing toys together. With so many differences in their lives, Meg thinks it won’t lead anywhere so it won’t last, but can Zak convince her otherwise?

I absolutely had such a great time laughing out loud while reading Meg and Zak’s story. The puns were *chef’s kiss*! The heart and just how they navigated life is just so REAL!

If you love a slow-burn to steamy, neighbors-to-lovers, reverse age gap romance, this book is for you.

Tropes:
🩷 Neighbors to Lovers

✨ Small Town Romance
🩷 Reverse Age Gap

✨ Starting Over
🩷 Banter


[Dani (dtieds_allbookedup) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to Grey's Promotions and Dani Collins for the #gifted copy of this book.

Summary: This is a romance about a single mom nearing 40 who, after a terrible divorce and quitting a toxic job, is trying to rediscover herself. Meg decides to help her friend run her adult toy shop while she's having health issues. While running the shop, she meets Zak (in his early 30s), who is home to help his dad after a dementia diagnosis. They both find great comfort in their banter and the escape it can give from their troubles. But it's only until Meg returns home to Toronto, right?

My Thoughts: What drew me to this story was a female character who was almost 40, because I can relate to her since I'm also 39. It was truly refreshing to see Meg break free from her people-pleasing tendencies and start living for herself. I love that Zak was right there every step of the way, trying to help her achieve her goals.

The banter between Zak and Meg was just so fun, and you could see from their first interaction that they were going to be something special. With so many obstacles in their lives, it's understandable why they were both hesitant to commit to a more permanent relationship.

Even though Meg was trying to find herself, I loved how she was urging her mom to start living for herself as well. They had such a strained relationship with Meg being a teen mom, but I loved how their relationship changed while Meg was in town.

This is a fantastic story of self-discovery after significant life changes, and the journey toward living your best life.

What You'll Find:
Single Mom
Reverse Age Gap
He Falls First
FMC almost in her 40s
Neighbors to Lovers
Slow Burn to Steamy

[Curtis E Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dani Collins has spun a heck of a tale with Afternoon Delight. With so many different issues woven together, this one will challenge your memory. As in, you will have to remember all the supporting characters and how they blend into the main story.

Meg is the friend everyone enjoys having close. Reading between the lines, Meg is the person looking for herself. She has been the strong leader, but on the flip side, she has also been the insecure one that never realized her full potential.

Zak is the strong male that believes in supporting family. That is always a pretty picture even when there are challenges involved. And in this story, we all feel the heartstrings and the tension with each page turned.
Zak has that rare quality to keep the moods of those around him calm. In this puzzle, that is a gift indeed.

When reading this story, understand that slow burn is an understatement. But it is justified because Dani takes that time to give the reader the full story, complete with atmosphere and views from the Canadian countrysides. Watching people grow in a story and watching them realize what they already knew can be enlightening. Feeling the love of not only the main character for each other, but for all the parties in this story will have you applauding community and the values that lie within.

Dani Collins has done a good job of bringing all the pieces together and giving us a wonderful feel-good ending…even if it does come quickly. Great job Dani on pulling this keeping me involved and this was worth the stars.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to GoodReads and the Publisher/Author for the eARC of this book!

This romance was both fun, light, and HOT, and addressed some serious issues. The FMC is recently divorced - and her temporary job helping a friend run her adult toy story provides for excellent innuendo and banter (and some very spicy scenes). But, she's also trying to figure out where her life goes from here and doesn't want to make the same mistakes she's made before. And she's trying to help her mother move on with her life after the death of her father. Her ex is a total toolbox, but he plays only a very small role. The MMC is similarly dealing with an unexpected life change, as he (and his family) copes with his father's advancing dementia. Both the light & fun, and the serious topics are dealt with well. The descriptions of conversations with the father are poignant, sometimes funny and sometimes sad and scary. I also really liked the open approach to making the shop a part of the community was great.

As noted above, this is a 4-5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ - she runs an adult toy story and they try out some of the store's products -- for research purposes, obvi. (For me, I'd lean toward 4 because in my rating system, 5 is reserved for scenes with darker or k!nkier activities - but the seggs scenes are very descriptive.) The relationship develops nicely, and I like how both partners help the other through their difficult life phases.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I believe this is the first book I've read by this author. I love the cover which is what drew me in. Then I read the blurb. I've been gravitating towards later in life romance since I'm starting to enter that stage of life myself. This book had one of my new favorite troupes reverse age gap. Meg is starting over and entering a new chapter of her life. A pit stop to help her BBF run her store is going to be a catalyst for that chapter. The hunky younger shop owner next door will help that along. I loved that this book took place in Canada. Made me think of my grandpa. He would have befriended Zak's dad Dale. This book sure does show the nitty gritty of life and the changes that comes with age. Makes a person stop and think, I know I did. I like the relationship Meg has with her kids. Meg may have been dealt an unlucky hand with her ex, but her next stretch of road will be her reward. She grows along the way and repairs some relationships as well. Being out of her comfort zone is something I have to find the courage to do as well. Don't let that stop you from enjoying the unexpected paths along the way. I will admit it did take me a bit to get into, but once I was I highly enjoyed this book. I'm also not holding that against the book because I've been battling a bit of depression that has put me in a bit of an off and on reading slump. This is a fun delightful read of experiencing the changes life brings, but also the joys along that journey.

[Val Ilieva · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚ARC Review AfterNoon Delight by Dani Collins📚
🩷Happy Release Day🩷
•Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

✨My thoughts:
If you’re looking for something refreshing, easy to read, and with amazing chemistry between the main characters—this one is for you. I really enjoyed both the story and the writing style. The whole book felt sweet with just the right amount of spice, and the pacing was spot on. Nothing felt rushed or dragged out. The characters were introduced so well that it was easy to get invested, and I loved how the story showed two grown people navigating life, still learning new things, and remembering to have fun along the way.

Now, let’s talk about Meg and Zak. From the very first moment they meet, you can feel the spark between them. Their relationship starts as friendship, built on mutual support and genuine connection. I loved how they spent time just talking, being present with each other, and enjoying the little moments. As the story goes on, you can really see how they help each other grow—not just as a couple, but as individuals too. The way their relationship was built slowly made it feel realistic and natural, and by the end, I was completely rooting for them.

This book is full of friendship, love, healing, growth, banter, and just the right amount of spice to top it all off. I really enjoyed it, and I think you will too! 💕

[Carey S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This book starts a little slowly, but once readers are fully invested in it, it is a delightful story. Zak is back on Victoria Island to help care for his dad, who has dementia. His sister has shouldered the duties for a long time and her marriage is crumbling, so it’s time for Zak to step up. His live-in girlfriend didn’t want to toss her career to move with him, so they broke up. He’s overwhelmed at times and doesn’t have time to date or care for anyone else. Meanwhile, Meg is fresh off of a divorce from her cheating ex-husband, who’s mistress just had a baby. She tired of being unappreciated at work, and watching others take credit for her efforts. So she quits her job to move cross-country to help a close friend who needs an operation. Her friend just opened a sex toy store, and needs Meg to run it while she recovers, and to keep it from going under.

This book has some delightful elements in it! Meg’s two children and her mother add some comic relief as well as poignancy to the story. The banter and stress relieving conversations with Zak are hilarious! Her close friend’s community of support is varied and loyal and helps Meg realize what is missing in her own life. She’s trying to determine her next steps, and Zak offers a welcome distraction, but could it be more? Read this book and see what happens…

[Cassie · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨️✨️ ARC Review ✨️✨️

Dani Collins might be joining my list of go-to romance authors. The way she writes Meg and Zak, you don’t just read them flirt, you feel it. Meg’s hesitation, her longing for change and Zak’s guilt and protectiveness all come through so clearly that their story feels very real.

Meg stepping into her friend’s adult toy shop was such a fun setup. She is awkward and funny as she tries to find her footing, but underneath that she is questioning what she actually wants from her life instead of what everyone else expects. Zak is carrying the heavy weight of his dad’s dementia and that makes his bond with Meg even more touching.

Their banter is wonderful. Full of puns, teasing and cheeky humour that slowly gives way to tenderness. You can see them falling for each other even when they are both telling themselves it is only temporary. I also really appreciated that there is no big dramatic break up. Yes, there is a little angst and a bit of distance while they both try to figure out where they want to be and if that is with each other, but it is handled in a way that feels grounded and true to them. And the epilogue? Absolutely perfect.

Afternoon Delight is neighbours to lovers, older woman/younger man, slow burn to steamy romance at its best. Funny, flirty and heartfelt, it made me laugh, ache a little and finish with the biggest smile.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was my lucky day when I was awarded this book in a giveaway. Ms. Collins takes a wonderful quirky crowd of characters who each have some realistic life drama to live with, mixes them together with a very healthy dose of humor, and comes up with this story that is just delightful. Meg is recently divorced, has two nearly grown children, and moves back to her old island hometown to operate her friend Georgia's adult toy store while Georgia recovers from serious health issues. In the same building as the store is an antiques shop operated by dementia-addled Dale (owner of the building) and his charming son Zak (yes, he's slightly younger than Meg...). So now just imagine all the clever, amusing, double entendre humor these two can have in conversation, and multiply it tenfold. Yet it never gets crass or rude - this is like a textbook for how reasonable people could talk about adult toys and emotional lives in a perfect world. Their dialogue is hilarious, and when the development of feelings are added to that mix, there is no end to the sparks. Their eventual physical encounters were just right for the story. This book is going onto my very tiny "read it again" shelf, and I imagine it would make an amazing audio production. I'm looking forward to reading more of Ms. Collins' work.

I received this book as a gift and happily volunteered to write a review.

[Joyffree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highly Recommend!
I am not sure how to word this to make it make sense
Collins takes real-world problems, the sweetest romance, and tackles them with humor in a way that hits right

Meg started so far out of her comfort zone.
Newly divorced.
Kids are growing up.
A career that just wasn't going in the direction she had dreamed.
Recent loss of her dad
Taking care of her friend's shop while she faces a medical crisis
Just for starters -

Now, let's add in the landlord who also owns the shop next door
Zak
His life isn't going so great either

I thought to myself when I picked this up, okay, this is going to be a lot of drama and angst, better get the tissue box
NOT!
It has been a while since I laughed out loud so much while reading
That I connected with a story's characters on such a level that I forgot they were fiction

The banter between Meg and Zak
The slow evolution of Meg finding the new her
Zak finding his more adventurous side
The easy chemistry between Zak and Meg (these two are so cute together)
The vibes between them (yes, I am referring to more than just their banter)
The oppses, the near misses, the swinging hits
The stellar secondary characters that also stole my heart
I do hope we get their stories
Such a wonderful read

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this from the very first page. Meg and Zak are just so alive – funny, witty, and impossible not to adore. Their banter was absolutely top-notch. I was constantly snickering, highlighting lines, and grinning like an idiot! The way their relationship grew felt so beautifully organic, and their ability to act like actual grown-ups – making the tough calls instead of just the easy ones – was such a breath of fresh air.

Zak’s open-mindedness about exploring the shop’s toys (and yes, I need that plug scene he tantalised us with!) was a delight, and the spice? Perfect - totally realistic, sexy, and so them. My favourite reverse age gap trope was handled brilliantly – no real angsty hand-wringing from Meg about being ‘too old’, and her awesome kids were just the cherry on top.

The dementia storyline was done with such care – unlike another recent read where it felt overwhelmingly bleak, here it was balanced and woven into the story without ever feeling like a prop. It added meaning without dragging the mood down.

This was my first Dani Collins book, but it’s easily one of my favourite reads this summer - so upbeat and full of energy right from the get-go. I’m definitely diving into her backlist now!

Thanks to Grey's Promotions and the author for the ARC. This is my honest opinion.

[Megan Hayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

eARC review thank you to Dani and Greys promotions!

Wow I really enjoyed this books refreshing light and funny read.

A revers age gap romance, packed with laughs spice and undeniable chemistry.

Meg is a 40 year old woman who always puts others before her own needs. She is taking a break from her accounting career to help her close friend run her adult toy store.

Zak a 32 year old techie turned antique store owner, is juggling caring for his father with dementia. Their unplanned encounters blossom from witty banter to a meaningful connection.

Their connection felt real, rooted in vulnerability and mutual respect, and the age-gap dynamic was handled with thoughtfulness rather than cliché.

What stood out most was the balance between lighthearted fun and serious themes. Dani Collins doesn't shy away from the realities of grief, aging parents, or the emotional fallout of divorce. These elements are written with compassion, adding a depth that elevates the story beyond your average rom-com.

If you’re looking for a slow-burn, age-gap romance with emotional depth, diverse characters, and smart, grown-up heat, Afternoon Delight delivers exactly that.

[Brandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a joy! I really liked the fact that these were slightly older characters than what you might typically read in the romance category.

Meg is a 40-year old (or nearly 40) recent divorcee, trying to pick up the pieces of her life, following her divorce and father’s death. On a whim, she quits her job and decides to help her friend run her adult toy store while her friend recovers from a surgery. It’s there she meets Zak, a slightly younger man who has also returned home to help his family support his father who has dementia. This book was a very slow burn, but I appreciated the realistic circumstances that both Meg and Zak are dealing with in this stage of life. I thought the author really did nice job of allowing these experiences to lead the book, and I feel as though there was a lot of character development for Meg. I also really enjoyed Meg’s (very) dry sense of humor.

I’m rating it a 4, because I did feel like it dragged a little slowly during some parts, but overall this was a great read. I’d definitely recommend! Thanks to Grey’s Promotions and the author for allowing me to do an ARC.