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Love in Destiny
Stolen Kisses, Roommates, & Small Towns
She’s running from her past. He’s building a future. A little blackmail and a lot of cocktails might just shake things up.
Disgraced socialite Stella Marino isn’t thrilled about being exiled to Destiny, a small town that feels like the polar opposite of her Manhattan life. Even worse? Living under the same roof as her estranged father and his new wife. Desperate for a way out, she strikes a deal with Matt Lancaster, her charming but headstrong she’ll keep his secret about the pop-up clubs siphoning business from her father’s hotel if he lets her move in.
Matt has poured his heart into his adopted hometown, where he’s found family, belonging, and the dream of one day owning his own nightclub. The last thing he needs is his new boss snooping into his life. Or crashing in his spare room. But as workplace clashes turn into cocktail collaborations, their undeniable chemistry threatens to upend everything they thought they wanted.
With her past closing in and his future on the line, Stella and Matt must choose between holding back or risking it all for love.
For fans of workplace romance, opposites attract, and beach-town charm, Stolen Kisses, Roommates, and Small Towns is a slow-burn story shaken with heat, stirred with heart, and served with a guaranteed happily-ever-after.
The second book in the A Love in Destiny romance series, this guaranteed HEA has no love triangles, no cheating, and no cliffhanger,
Disgraced socialite Stella Marino isn’t thrilled about being exiled to Destiny, a small town that feels like the polar opposite of her Manhattan life. Even worse? Living under the same roof as her estranged father and his new wife. Desperate for a way out, she strikes a deal with Matt Lancaster, her charming but headstrong she’ll keep his secret about the pop-up clubs siphoning business from her father’s hotel if he lets her move in.
Matt has poured his heart into his adopted hometown, where he’s found family, belonging, and the dream of one day owning his own nightclub. The last thing he needs is his new boss snooping into his life. Or crashing in his spare room. But as workplace clashes turn into cocktail collaborations, their undeniable chemistry threatens to upend everything they thought they wanted.
With her past closing in and his future on the line, Stella and Matt must choose between holding back or risking it all for love.
For fans of workplace romance, opposites attract, and beach-town charm, Stolen Kisses, Roommates, and Small Towns is a slow-burn story shaken with heat, stirred with heart, and served with a guaranteed happily-ever-after.
The second book in the A Love in Destiny romance series, this guaranteed HEA has no love triangles, no cheating, and no cliffhanger,
283 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 19, 2025
7 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
D.L. Croisette
10 books133 followersDL Croisette is a storyteller. The characters in her head demanded their tales to be told. Not one to back down from a challenge, she now spins them into romantic adventures full of drama, emotions, and courageous characters who rediscover their strengths. Collector of international friends, avid traveller and always up for a new experience, she snaps photos to remember each escapade, and peppers the best into her stories. She’s probably at an outdoor café right now, dreaming up a bold new heroine to stir up trouble. (Fun!)
Stay in touch with her on Instagram and Facebook at @dlcroisette or sign up for her newsletter over at dlcroisette.com.
Stay in touch with her on Instagram and Facebook at @dlcroisette or sign up for her newsletter over at dlcroisette.com.
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August 25, 2025This is an entertaining romance story with some engaging and compelling characters. Stella is a rich girl sent to work at her father’s resort after an embarrassing incident in Manhattan. Once there she quickly realizes what life is like for the working class and she tries to acclimate and fit in. Stella also discovers her coworker Matt’s secret side business which if discovered by her father would infuriate him and risk Matt’s current job and new fledgling business. As a romance between Stella and Matt heats up Stella soon realizes her priorities and goals in life have changed. This book is well written and has characters that you cheer for. The dialogue is great and I liked the small town setting. I now need to check out more from this author.
August 1, 2025
ARC Read!! 🩵⭐️📚
I’m so glad I got to be an ARC reader for this book! It was my first time reading anything by DL Croisette, but it definitely won’t be my last. This story was fantastic! I absolutely loved Stella and Matt as individual characters, but together, they were pure magic. 😍
Matt is the classic "falls first, hides it harder" type, and watching his feelings slowly come to light was so satisfying. Stella, on the other hand, is someone who’s often overlooked, which is heartbreaking. Matt truly sees her for who she is. Which makes their connection even more meaningful.
It’s a fast-paced read, and it’s worth reading!
I’m so glad I got to be an ARC reader for this book! It was my first time reading anything by DL Croisette, but it definitely won’t be my last. This story was fantastic! I absolutely loved Stella and Matt as individual characters, but together, they were pure magic. 😍
Matt is the classic "falls first, hides it harder" type, and watching his feelings slowly come to light was so satisfying. Stella, on the other hand, is someone who’s often overlooked, which is heartbreaking. Matt truly sees her for who she is. Which makes their connection even more meaningful.
It’s a fast-paced read, and it’s worth reading!
August 3, 2025
Review: Stolen Kisses, Roommates & Small-Town Romance
✨ by D.L. Croisette ✨
What an absolute delight! 💕 This story had everything I love in a romance: stolen kisses, forced proximity, slow-burn tension, and all the heart-fluttering moments that make you want to binge it in one sitting.
The dynamic between the two main characters was electric from the start. As roommates, they try to keep things platonic—but let’s be real, the chemistry was impossible to ignore! Their banter was playful, their connection was genuine, and the way their relationship slowly shifted from awkward roommates to something much more had me totally hooked. 😍
The small-town setting added such a cozy charm to the whole story without being too over-the-top. It felt like the perfect backdrop for late-night confessions, quiet moments, and of course, those perfectly timed kisses. 💋
D.L. Croisette has such a warm and engaging writing style that makes you fall for both the characters and the world around them. It’s sweet, swoony, and just the right amount of steamy. A must-read for anyone who loves slow burns, roommate tension, and small-town romance with a big heart! 💖
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✨ by D.L. Croisette ✨
What an absolute delight! 💕 This story had everything I love in a romance: stolen kisses, forced proximity, slow-burn tension, and all the heart-fluttering moments that make you want to binge it in one sitting.
The dynamic between the two main characters was electric from the start. As roommates, they try to keep things platonic—but let’s be real, the chemistry was impossible to ignore! Their banter was playful, their connection was genuine, and the way their relationship slowly shifted from awkward roommates to something much more had me totally hooked. 😍
The small-town setting added such a cozy charm to the whole story without being too over-the-top. It felt like the perfect backdrop for late-night confessions, quiet moments, and of course, those perfectly timed kisses. 💋
D.L. Croisette has such a warm and engaging writing style that makes you fall for both the characters and the world around them. It’s sweet, swoony, and just the right amount of steamy. A must-read for anyone who loves slow burns, roommate tension, and small-town romance with a big heart! 💖
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 8, 2025
This book was such a treat! I loved watching complete opposites Stella and Matt go from wary coworkers to something so much more when they finally gave in to the inconvenient sizzle between them. The small-town vibe is cozy, the banter is sharp, and the slow burn kept me turning the pages, despite real life hollering at me to get back t work. And that first kiss? Honestly, one of the best I’ve ever read—so perfectly built up that I actually sighed aloud. If you’re looking for a quick read with heart, heat, and plenty of charm, this one’s a must-read.
August 5, 2025
I was very lucky to read this ARC through the author. I absolutely loved Stella and Matt’s story and how their characters developed throughout this book. Massive shout out to Stella’s mum you are a B**** 🤣. This is definitely one for your summer TBR.
August 2, 2025
4.5 stars!
A heartfelt, small-town second chance romance that absolutely charmed me.
Stella is the kind of main character I rooted for right away — searching for herself in all the wrong places, trying to heal her inner child while figuring out adulthood in real time. Matt? Book boyfriend material. Sweet, driven, goal-oriented, and patient when it counts.
I appreciated how real this story felt: divorce, fresh starts, forgiveness, and how hard it is to move forward without answers. D.L. Croisette delivers charm with just the right dose of grit.
ARC provided by the author via BookFunnel.
A heartfelt, small-town second chance romance that absolutely charmed me.
Stella is the kind of main character I rooted for right away — searching for herself in all the wrong places, trying to heal her inner child while figuring out adulthood in real time. Matt? Book boyfriend material. Sweet, driven, goal-oriented, and patient when it counts.
I appreciated how real this story felt: divorce, fresh starts, forgiveness, and how hard it is to move forward without answers. D.L. Croisette delivers charm with just the right dose of grit.
ARC provided by the author via BookFunnel.
July 30, 2025
I was sent this as an ARC. This was my first book by this author and it was a solid 4-4.5 star. I loved the characters and this fit well in the summer book reading mood I am currently in. Looking forward to reading more!!
August 11, 2025
Stella Marino wore so many masks ,her mother’s daughter ,she did all that was asked of her without even blinking or thinking ,conditioned as she was to toe the line . Pretending to herself that everything’s fine. A puppet on her mother’s apron strings ,wanting to please and appease her. Even her choice of man takes from her all he can and sets his demands that she follows to the letter because she’s never known any better.She was all party girl , socialite but deep inside it didn’t really sit right ,out every night to all intents and purposes living the high life . When the reality is she doesn’t have a life . Not a real one ,with a hon. A man who treats her like a priority and not to be used as a commodity to buy and sell to the highest bidder by her mom who always seemed to relish in her daughter being glum. Her dad can’t see from where he’s at with his new wife Brenda in situ stat. But one wild party and bad press has her mother packing her off in her distress of the scandal . What a mess ,so sent to work for dear old papa who didn’t know her either only from afar. But it’s for the best, best for who though that’s the thing . But she meets new people,a man who makes her heart sing. A man with dreams and ambitions , with convictions and a purposeful stride ,one who in different circumstances could easily make her his bride, but there’s the thing ,she’s here for summer so it’s only a fling. He in turn finds her enamouring and clamouring to know more about her, until she walks in and becomes his new boss. Because she just spent the night at his place and just peeled herself out of his bed but a few hours ago. And now she’s at his place of work and the boss’s daughter who has been given a job at the residency bar. He’s running a pop up club occasionally and earning money to buy the building ,Warehouse is the name of the bar he has plans to open in direct competition though he isn’t . Though that’s not how dear old papa sees it and needs to know everything about the place to get it closed down . He’s legally bound after all.. Well that just about takes the biscuit but it was too good an opportunity to not risk it. Getting caught has him overwrought and deep in thought making promises to Olivia to keep schtum she makes a deal . He be a chum and let her rent a room at his gaff and she act all daft and innocent like . Sending them off the scent as if to say on ya bike.Matt Lancaster has depth and he’s not as inept as she might think . He’s also a demon at mixing up the drink in a glass quick as you like in a flash with the right balance of flavours in a blink . It isn’t a task but a pleasure as he’s mixed plenty practising in his leisure time and what he makes are top shelf sublime . She knows a decent champagne from the harsher variety a mile and he emits a smile at his cheap plonk base that he shakes up and makes up into desirable taste . He knows well what sells and these go like the clappers so much so he runs out of liquor a lot quicker . He raises the bar and with the cool dj the room is full of would be rappers.,It’s money in the bank and he’s done the math . Him and Roscoe together make a great team and the top dj too ,she is always eager to work the floor so supreme adding to his elusive dream that could soon become a reality if he doesn’t get caught taking undue risks. As she learns more about him and he about her they grow close and it’s nice . Just the two of them and drinks over ice. Something happens though , doesn’t it always ? To spoil the fun and she’s facing her nemesis in the strangest circumstances . But you know what , she sees this an advantage the whole thing makes her heart sing and dance ,the romance of it all . Will it work out ? You’ll have to read for yourself needlessly to say it’s top of my book shelf . Love will out supreme while wearing a big sunbeam smile, had a ball reading this it’s absolutely bliss and so well written it flows superbly not to be missed. DL Croisette knows romance as this book did so entrance . I could not put it down if I tried and when all said and done I don’t mind saying I cried with this one DL hon.
August 21, 2025
This was my first book and an ARC that was written by D.L. Croisette. The writing style is captivating and you will instantly fall in love with Destiny and all of the characters that make it magical. I did read the previous book in this series prior to this, but it is not required to follow along with the story line.
Matt and Stella are the definition of true and unconditional love and support. It may have been a slow burn to get there, but once they got there it was so nice to see them grow as individuals and as an unstoppable couple. The main and supporting characters were all developed with a lot of thought and care. The flow and depth of the character’s relationship with each other could be felt between the pages of this book.
I will say that I felt a lot more emotional reading this than I had anticipated. I was expecting it to be fluffy hearts and a complete HEA with no third act break up. There were a few times that I got that emotional lump in the throat reading some of the things felt by Matt and Stella. It is a story that proves you have to work hard and fight for the things you want out of your own life.
I was really hoping that everything was going to go smoothly without any issues and I was back pedaling away from the implosion of their relationship. I expected it to be similar in storyline to the first book in the collection. I am so happy that the story was different than the first one, and that the characters had to build their love brick by brick, even when things got rough. It made the characters more relatable.
By the end of the book I was sad to say good bye to Destiny. I wish there was more of Matt and Stella. The story ended the way it should, but it made me want to keep reading their story.
Matt and Stella are the definition of true and unconditional love and support. It may have been a slow burn to get there, but once they got there it was so nice to see them grow as individuals and as an unstoppable couple. The main and supporting characters were all developed with a lot of thought and care. The flow and depth of the character’s relationship with each other could be felt between the pages of this book.
I will say that I felt a lot more emotional reading this than I had anticipated. I was expecting it to be fluffy hearts and a complete HEA with no third act break up. There were a few times that I got that emotional lump in the throat reading some of the things felt by Matt and Stella. It is a story that proves you have to work hard and fight for the things you want out of your own life.
I was really hoping that everything was going to go smoothly without any issues and I was back pedaling away from the implosion of their relationship. I expected it to be similar in storyline to the first book in the collection. I am so happy that the story was different than the first one, and that the characters had to build their love brick by brick, even when things got rough. It made the characters more relatable.
By the end of the book I was sad to say good bye to Destiny. I wish there was more of Matt and Stella. The story ended the way it should, but it made me want to keep reading their story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2025
As an ARC reader for STOLEN KISSES, ROOMMATES, and SMALL TOWNS by D.L. Croisette, I was happy to get a sneak peek at this sweet and spicy summer-y romance. I was swept in from the first sentence, and for a slow-burn romance, the book itself is fast-paced and hard to put down. It’s a story where first impressions aren’t always as they seem. Bartender Matt Lancaster and heiress Stella Marino seemed like opposites and the least likely to become a couple, however things aren’t always as they seem. I was not expecting sassy rich girl, Stella, to emerge as vulnerable and caring. And Matt, hard-working and driven, was a swoon-worthy teddy bear at heart. He could hardly be the more perfect partner to help bring out the best of Stella.
Everyone around Stella had plans and agendas – some more noble than others – and Stella (at first) seemed to float along for the ride. Intertwined with the romance, was Stella’s rise in confidence and drive, and it was Stella that helped move others towards their goals. The interplay between Stella and Matt, and their support for each other emotionally and professionally, had such heart; and it really carried their arc through the book. What I also appreciated was the arc of the secondary characters. It was satisfying to see a different side of Mr. Marino and Brenda at the end. And I’m intrigued by what could be for Rosco and Taylor.
Set in the ultimate beach town of Destiny, this is the perfect summer read.
Everyone around Stella had plans and agendas – some more noble than others – and Stella (at first) seemed to float along for the ride. Intertwined with the romance, was Stella’s rise in confidence and drive, and it was Stella that helped move others towards their goals. The interplay between Stella and Matt, and their support for each other emotionally and professionally, had such heart; and it really carried their arc through the book. What I also appreciated was the arc of the secondary characters. It was satisfying to see a different side of Mr. Marino and Brenda at the end. And I’m intrigued by what could be for Rosco and Taylor.
Set in the ultimate beach town of Destiny, this is the perfect summer read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2025
✅ Stolen Kisses, Roommates, and Small Towns by D.L. Croisette
Stella has a reputation as a rich wild girl, and when an online scandal follows her, she escapes to the small town of Destiny for the summer. She plans to lay low while working at her father’s hotel bar… until she meets Matt, the charming bartender who rescues her from a sticky situation on her very first night in town. The next morning she realizes he’s not just some handsome stranger—he works for her, and she’s now his boss for the summer.
This book has all the tropes you could want in a sweet, summery romance:
✨ Golden retriever MMC
✨ Opposites attract
✨ Big city socialite x small-town bartender
✨ She’s his boss / boss’s daughter tension
✨ Small town charm + found family
It made for a great summer/beach read! There were so many fun moments that kept me smiling and turning the pages. While some parts leaned a little cheesy for my taste, they were nicely balanced with more grounded, realistic moments. I especially loved the found family aspect with Matt and his roommates—it added so much warmth to the story.
One of my favorite parts was seeing Stella’s growth. As the layers of her personality were peeled back, we got to see the heart behind her “wild girl” reputation, and I really enjoyed that journey.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 — a sweet, fun, and charming small-town romance!
Release Date - August 19th 2025
Thank you to the author D.L. Croisette for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Stella has a reputation as a rich wild girl, and when an online scandal follows her, she escapes to the small town of Destiny for the summer. She plans to lay low while working at her father’s hotel bar… until she meets Matt, the charming bartender who rescues her from a sticky situation on her very first night in town. The next morning she realizes he’s not just some handsome stranger—he works for her, and she’s now his boss for the summer.
This book has all the tropes you could want in a sweet, summery romance:
✨ Golden retriever MMC
✨ Opposites attract
✨ Big city socialite x small-town bartender
✨ She’s his boss / boss’s daughter tension
✨ Small town charm + found family
It made for a great summer/beach read! There were so many fun moments that kept me smiling and turning the pages. While some parts leaned a little cheesy for my taste, they were nicely balanced with more grounded, realistic moments. I especially loved the found family aspect with Matt and his roommates—it added so much warmth to the story.
One of my favorite parts was seeing Stella’s growth. As the layers of her personality were peeled back, we got to see the heart behind her “wild girl” reputation, and I really enjoyed that journey.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 — a sweet, fun, and charming small-town romance!
Release Date - August 19th 2025
Thank you to the author D.L. Croisette for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 24, 2025
From the very first page, DL Croisette wraps you up in a world of small-town warmth, playful banter, and swoony stolen moments. I had the chance to enjoy this story as part of my ongoing ARC reading journey, and it completely delivered on charm and emotional depth.
The dynamic between the leads is electric—equal parts teasing, heartfelt, and “will-they-won’t-they”—making the payoff so satisfying. Just the right balance of heartfelt romance and swoon-worthy chemistry that lingers long after the last page.
Croisette crafts a romance that feels effortless and genuine, letting the relationship grow in ways that feel natural yet exciting. The witty exchanges, subtle emotional beats, and layered storytelling make this an addictive read for anyone who loves the charm of small towns with the thrill of romance that feels both fun and meaningful.
If you’re looking for a feel-good read that delivers laughs, longing, and a whole lot of love, Stolen Kisses, Roommates, and Small Towns is an absolute treat.
The dynamic between the leads is electric—equal parts teasing, heartfelt, and “will-they-won’t-they”—making the payoff so satisfying. Just the right balance of heartfelt romance and swoon-worthy chemistry that lingers long after the last page.
Croisette crafts a romance that feels effortless and genuine, letting the relationship grow in ways that feel natural yet exciting. The witty exchanges, subtle emotional beats, and layered storytelling make this an addictive read for anyone who loves the charm of small towns with the thrill of romance that feels both fun and meaningful.
If you’re looking for a feel-good read that delivers laughs, longing, and a whole lot of love, Stolen Kisses, Roommates, and Small Towns is an absolute treat.
August 10, 2025
Stolen Kisses, Roommates & Small Towns is from the author's Love In Destiny series. This opposites attract, small town, workplace romance features Stella Marino and Matt Lancaster.
When Stella, a rich socialite, embarrasses her mother (Lydia), she is sent from Manhattan to Destiny, Florida for the summer where she will work at her estranged father's (Brad) newest hotel, the Sapphire. On her first night there, she finds her way to a pop-up club called Warehouse where she overindulges and passes out. Matt, the bartender and all-around good guy, can't just leave her there so he ends up taking her back to his place and lets her sleep in his bed.
The next day Matt learns that Stella is now essentially his boss. Her father put her in charge of the Sapphire's bar, where Matt works as a bartender to cover his bills. Matt is concerned that Stella now knows his secret - he's been trying to raise funds in order to get a loan from the bank to open his club permanently - and she will reveal it to her father. Mr. Marino is keen to find the person behind the Warehouse in order to shut it down. He believes the illegal club is stealing business away from him and his hotel. Fortunately for Matt, Stella has no desire to live under the same roof as her father and step-mother and uses her knowledge of the Warehouse as leverage to gain access to Matt's currently unoccupied guest room.
As Matt and Stella continue to work together, and live together, their relationship evolves. Stella comes to appreciate Matt for the man he is: kind, attentive, loving, generous and talented. Similarly, Matt sees the true Stella, the one who is never allowed to shine. Stella and Matt have wonderful chemistry and watching them develop and grow their connection was beautiful. This was a lovely summer read and I would recommend checking it out.
When Stella, a rich socialite, embarrasses her mother (Lydia), she is sent from Manhattan to Destiny, Florida for the summer where she will work at her estranged father's (Brad) newest hotel, the Sapphire. On her first night there, she finds her way to a pop-up club called Warehouse where she overindulges and passes out. Matt, the bartender and all-around good guy, can't just leave her there so he ends up taking her back to his place and lets her sleep in his bed.
The next day Matt learns that Stella is now essentially his boss. Her father put her in charge of the Sapphire's bar, where Matt works as a bartender to cover his bills. Matt is concerned that Stella now knows his secret - he's been trying to raise funds in order to get a loan from the bank to open his club permanently - and she will reveal it to her father. Mr. Marino is keen to find the person behind the Warehouse in order to shut it down. He believes the illegal club is stealing business away from him and his hotel. Fortunately for Matt, Stella has no desire to live under the same roof as her father and step-mother and uses her knowledge of the Warehouse as leverage to gain access to Matt's currently unoccupied guest room.
As Matt and Stella continue to work together, and live together, their relationship evolves. Stella comes to appreciate Matt for the man he is: kind, attentive, loving, generous and talented. Similarly, Matt sees the true Stella, the one who is never allowed to shine. Stella and Matt have wonderful chemistry and watching them develop and grow their connection was beautiful. This was a lovely summer read and I would recommend checking it out.
August 14, 2025
Exiled to a sleepy beach town, a disgraced socialite becomes the boss—and reluctant roommate—of a charismatic bartender. As ambitions clash and late nights spark deeper feelings, they’ll have to risk heartbreak to find love.
Exiled to a sleepy beach town, a disgraced socialite takes over managing her father’s hotel bar, only to clash with a charming bartender whose secret pop-up clubs threaten the business. But as boundaries blur and passion ignites, they must decide if risking their futures is worth a chance at love.
If you’re into:
✔️ Forced proximity / roommate romance
✔️ She’s his boss
✔️ He falls first
✔️ Found family
✔️ Cocktail-fueled tension and beachy sunsets
I loved this one! A sweet summer romance and a quick read. You will fall in love with Destiny and all that a quiet beach town has to offer! I’m inspired to find a spot to watch the sunset with a fizzy drink and a handsome man! 😉
Can’t wait for more from DL Croisette and to check out the rest of the A Love in Destiny Romance series.
Exiled to a sleepy beach town, a disgraced socialite takes over managing her father’s hotel bar, only to clash with a charming bartender whose secret pop-up clubs threaten the business. But as boundaries blur and passion ignites, they must decide if risking their futures is worth a chance at love.
If you’re into:
✔️ Forced proximity / roommate romance
✔️ She’s his boss
✔️ He falls first
✔️ Found family
✔️ Cocktail-fueled tension and beachy sunsets
I loved this one! A sweet summer romance and a quick read. You will fall in love with Destiny and all that a quiet beach town has to offer! I’m inspired to find a spot to watch the sunset with a fizzy drink and a handsome man! 😉
Can’t wait for more from DL Croisette and to check out the rest of the A Love in Destiny Romance series.
August 10, 2025
First I want to thank the author for this ARC in exchange of my honest review.
I'm a sucker for small town romances and this one ticked all the boxes!
Stella was a believable character: sweet, fun, insecure and doesn't have a clue what to do with her life. I'm glad we saw real character development over a realistic timeframe, how the influence of the friends she made and Matt helped her realize she could be herself and make changes to achieve the life she wanted.
Matt was a walking green flag! I loved him from the moment he took Stella home, even after he didn't have the most pleasant of exchanges with her. He was kind, hardworking, smart and loved his people deeply. I loved how in the first few chapters we get the feel of community when we see Matt, Rosco and Taylor live and work together.
In small town stories we often get the crazy nosy people and the gossiping narratives that can make the book hard to enjoy since the narrative revolves around what people think/say about the main characters.
Stella having all the intentions to stay in Destiny but choosing to take time to find herself and make smart choices about her move made me like the story even more. It was quite predictable at times but I find this happens with most romance books.
I overall really enjoyed the story and the characters, it was a very easy read and perfect for the end of summer!
I'm a sucker for small town romances and this one ticked all the boxes!
Stella was a believable character: sweet, fun, insecure and doesn't have a clue what to do with her life. I'm glad we saw real character development over a realistic timeframe, how the influence of the friends she made and Matt helped her realize she could be herself and make changes to achieve the life she wanted.
Matt was a walking green flag! I loved him from the moment he took Stella home, even after he didn't have the most pleasant of exchanges with her. He was kind, hardworking, smart and loved his people deeply. I loved how in the first few chapters we get the feel of community when we see Matt, Rosco and Taylor live and work together.
In small town stories we often get the crazy nosy people and the gossiping narratives that can make the book hard to enjoy since the narrative revolves around what people think/say about the main characters.
Stella having all the intentions to stay in Destiny but choosing to take time to find herself and make smart choices about her move made me like the story even more. It was quite predictable at times but I find this happens with most romance books.
I overall really enjoyed the story and the characters, it was a very easy read and perfect for the end of summer!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2025
ARC Review🌊
Title: Stolen Kisses, Roommates, & Small Towns
Author: @dlcroisette
Release Date: August 19th, 2025
Tropes
- Workplace romance
- Small town
- She’s his boss
-Opposite attract
-Beach Romance
The book:
🌴🌊
The story follows Stella in the beach town of Destiny. She works at her dad’s hotel as a bar manager with Matt whom is the winsome bartender with a golden retriever soul. Matt and Stella are total opposites but that doesn’t stop Matt from Falling for his boss. Tension rises and chemistry flares in this slow burn beach romance.
My thoughts:
🌴🌊
This was such an adorable and quick summer read. I loved how Stella pushed Matt to go after his dreams and absolutely adored how Matt fell for her true self and built her up. The spice, cocktails, and beachy sunsets just made this story the perfect summer beach romance.
Thank you so much @dlcroisette for this adorable ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinion🫶🏼
P.S.
Make sure to get your hands on this story as I am sure you’ll love it as much as I did. I tried not to give so many spoilers🤭
Title: Stolen Kisses, Roommates, & Small Towns
Author: @dlcroisette
Release Date: August 19th, 2025
Tropes
- Workplace romance
- Small town
- She’s his boss
-Opposite attract
-Beach Romance
The book:
🌴🌊
The story follows Stella in the beach town of Destiny. She works at her dad’s hotel as a bar manager with Matt whom is the winsome bartender with a golden retriever soul. Matt and Stella are total opposites but that doesn’t stop Matt from Falling for his boss. Tension rises and chemistry flares in this slow burn beach romance.
My thoughts:
🌴🌊
This was such an adorable and quick summer read. I loved how Stella pushed Matt to go after his dreams and absolutely adored how Matt fell for her true self and built her up. The spice, cocktails, and beachy sunsets just made this story the perfect summer beach romance.
Thank you so much @dlcroisette for this adorable ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinion🫶🏼
P.S.
Make sure to get your hands on this story as I am sure you’ll love it as much as I did. I tried not to give so many spoilers🤭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2025
ARC review!
It was such a delight being a part of D.L. Croisette’s new romance “Stolen Kisses, Roommates, and Small Towns”.
I love a romance with good banter and by Stella and Matt’s very first interaction, I knew their banter was going to be superior. I completely ate it up and unlike our main couple, I fell for their budding relationship very fast! It’s a true small town, opposites attract, forced proximity romance (all tropes that I have come to place in my top tropes to read this summer). Every spicy moment is intentional perfectly lending themselves to their gradual slow burn that has you turning page after page to get to their next stolen moment between them.
It’s a fast-paced, warm, and cozy read, perfect for the last weeks of summer!
It was such a delight being a part of D.L. Croisette’s new romance “Stolen Kisses, Roommates, and Small Towns”.
I love a romance with good banter and by Stella and Matt’s very first interaction, I knew their banter was going to be superior. I completely ate it up and unlike our main couple, I fell for their budding relationship very fast! It’s a true small town, opposites attract, forced proximity romance (all tropes that I have come to place in my top tropes to read this summer). Every spicy moment is intentional perfectly lending themselves to their gradual slow burn that has you turning page after page to get to their next stolen moment between them.
It’s a fast-paced, warm, and cozy read, perfect for the last weeks of summer!
August 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/🌶️🌶️
Stolen Kisses, Roommates, and Small Towns is a fun summer read about love, second chances, and finding the strength to be yourself.
Stella and Matt are wonderful characters, and their relationship is so intriguing. They support each other so much, and their relationship way they grow together is beautiful.
All of the side characters are fantastic. Each one is so interesting and I want to know more about them.
I also really loved the ending, and the way so many people got a second chance, not just our main characters.
This book wasn’t just about romance. There was dysfunctional family, overdue communication, and healing in a very real, very emotional way.
This may be one of my favorite summer reads this year, and you should certainly give it a shot!!
*ARC Review
Stolen Kisses, Roommates, and Small Towns is a fun summer read about love, second chances, and finding the strength to be yourself.
Stella and Matt are wonderful characters, and their relationship is so intriguing. They support each other so much, and their relationship way they grow together is beautiful.
All of the side characters are fantastic. Each one is so interesting and I want to know more about them.
I also really loved the ending, and the way so many people got a second chance, not just our main characters.
This book wasn’t just about romance. There was dysfunctional family, overdue communication, and healing in a very real, very emotional way.
This may be one of my favorite summer reads this year, and you should certainly give it a shot!!
*ARC Review
August 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
First off thank you to D.L Croisette for giving this ARC copy!
Stella is the social girl from New York shipped off to the small town destiny FL for the summer due to a scandal that happened. Matt is a college dropout with a dream of opening his own bar where he can deliver his passion for mixology and give locals a go to place for drinks and some fun.
Stella and Matt cross paths at her father’s hotel, the Sapphire where they start to work together at the bar, later forming a friendship that turns into something more. I really liked both characters I felt they had great back stories of who they were and how they developed in the book.
I felt when Matt and Stella’s relationship developed it went straight into something physical and nothing emotional no date nothing, I felt it was very rushed. I know this book wasn’t long but I felt myself kinda questioning things like how did it happen or when it was going to happen.
It took me awhile to get into this book which happened at about 50% when more was happening like a relationship between Matt and Stella and being able to read about Matt’s passionate bar he was opening the warehouse. Overall, I enjoyed the relationship between these two characters and their development over the book I just felt I missing a lot of things that were just not mentioned.
I would be interested in reading more from this author and am hoping for a Taylor and Rosco book!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
First off thank you to D.L Croisette for giving this ARC copy!
Stella is the social girl from New York shipped off to the small town destiny FL for the summer due to a scandal that happened. Matt is a college dropout with a dream of opening his own bar where he can deliver his passion for mixology and give locals a go to place for drinks and some fun.
Stella and Matt cross paths at her father’s hotel, the Sapphire where they start to work together at the bar, later forming a friendship that turns into something more. I really liked both characters I felt they had great back stories of who they were and how they developed in the book.
I felt when Matt and Stella’s relationship developed it went straight into something physical and nothing emotional no date nothing, I felt it was very rushed. I know this book wasn’t long but I felt myself kinda questioning things like how did it happen or when it was going to happen.
It took me awhile to get into this book which happened at about 50% when more was happening like a relationship between Matt and Stella and being able to read about Matt’s passionate bar he was opening the warehouse. Overall, I enjoyed the relationship between these two characters and their development over the book I just felt I missing a lot of things that were just not mentioned.
I would be interested in reading more from this author and am hoping for a Taylor and Rosco book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2025
“You stepped into a town that didn’t know what to make of you, and instead of shutting down, you showed the hell up. Every day.”
Matt is my new fave wholesome book boyfriend! Stella just wants to prove to her parents she is not a disappointment and more than a “rich girl.” But when she’s sent to her dad’s for the summer after her latest scandal she finds herself overwhelmed and a bit out of her league at the beginning! Unlike everyone else who tells her she’s useless Matt pays attention and helps her find herself along the way! Champagne and Chess, two things you wouldn’t think go together but in this small town only make sense together! Such a great book that hits all the feels in all the right ways!
Matt is my new fave wholesome book boyfriend! Stella just wants to prove to her parents she is not a disappointment and more than a “rich girl.” But when she’s sent to her dad’s for the summer after her latest scandal she finds herself overwhelmed and a bit out of her league at the beginning! Unlike everyone else who tells her she’s useless Matt pays attention and helps her find herself along the way! Champagne and Chess, two things you wouldn’t think go together but in this small town only make sense together! Such a great book that hits all the feels in all the right ways!
August 9, 2025
4.5 stars bumped to 5
I read this book after reading several emotional/darker books and it was such a nice, fresh change. While there is still conflict (because when is there not) it was on a pallet cleanser level. I loved the MMC in this story, Matt. He was so sweet! He took so much time and went so slow with Stella. He taught her how to put herself first and made sure she felt loved and important. I'll read smut any day of the week but if I'm totally honest, I usually tend to enjoy books without smut more. I'm all about the swoony moments and less about the bedroom sheets. This book was definitely open door and spicy. However, with the way it was written I found myself enjoying it just as much as the closed door books that steal my heart. Matt was added to my top 5 book boyfriend list with my other TikTok famous boyfriends. If you're looking for one last summer read before fall sets in, pick up this one!
Thank you to DL Croisette for giving me the privilege of reading an ARC.
I read this book after reading several emotional/darker books and it was such a nice, fresh change. While there is still conflict (because when is there not) it was on a pallet cleanser level. I loved the MMC in this story, Matt. He was so sweet! He took so much time and went so slow with Stella. He taught her how to put herself first and made sure she felt loved and important. I'll read smut any day of the week but if I'm totally honest, I usually tend to enjoy books without smut more. I'm all about the swoony moments and less about the bedroom sheets. This book was definitely open door and spicy. However, with the way it was written I found myself enjoying it just as much as the closed door books that steal my heart. Matt was added to my top 5 book boyfriend list with my other TikTok famous boyfriends. If you're looking for one last summer read before fall sets in, pick up this one!
Thank you to DL Croisette for giving me the privilege of reading an ARC.
August 16, 2025
I loved the slow burn romance
this was an arc read and my first time reading a book from the author DL Croisett
at the beginning, I didn't like Stella for being a spoiled brat, but towards the end, I did like Stella and her standing up for Matt against her dad. Matt was a goddess, the way he learned every curve in her body and the foreplay. he is a golden retriever. the author didn't let me down finish the book in a day.
this was an arc read and my first time reading a book from the author DL Croisett
at the beginning, I didn't like Stella for being a spoiled brat, but towards the end, I did like Stella and her standing up for Matt against her dad. Matt was a goddess, the way he learned every curve in her body and the foreplay. he is a golden retriever. the author didn't let me down finish the book in a day.
August 19, 2025
This was my first ARC read and I was not disappointed! Our MMC Matt is so sweet with FMC Stella.
Matt is the truest definition of a Golden Retriever and He truly sees Stella as the power house she is!
Roomates
Small Town Charm
Hallmark Movie Vibe
Horrible Mother You Don't Like
This book gives you summer romance, secret kisses, and personal growth within the characters all in one Quick Read.
I prefer my books extra spicy but when this took off! Fireworks!
Matt is the truest definition of a Golden Retriever and He truly sees Stella as the power house she is!
Roomates
Small Town Charm
Hallmark Movie Vibe
Horrible Mother You Don't Like
This book gives you summer romance, secret kisses, and personal growth within the characters all in one Quick Read.
I prefer my books extra spicy but when this took off! Fireworks!
August 19, 2025
If you love small-town drama, cocktails with a side of blackmail, and two stubborn people falling hopelessly in love, this book is your jam. Stella went from spoiled socialite to someone I was cheering for, and Matt? Let’s just say if there were a “book boyfriend draft,” he’d be my first pick. The character development was chef’s kiss, the banter had me grinning, and the romance was the perfect slow burn. A fantastic, feel-good read—I devoured it faster than a margarita on taco night.👀🤪
August 16, 2025
Such a great book for my an ARC read! Stella figuring out her life and standing up for herself and Matt learning to look past money. Even though it’s part of a series, you do not have to read the others to know what’s going on! Looking forward to reading more of DL Croisette’s books. So glad I found them!
August 17, 2025
Such a cute storyline, small town romance and it's a slow burn. I was so hooked as soon as I started the book! This is my first read by D. L. Croisette and I highly recommend. And a big thank you to D. L for allowing me to be part of the arc team.
August 19, 2025
Stella escapes the spotlight of New York high society and finds herself working at her dad’s hotel in a quiet Florida beach town. There she meets Matt, the handsome bartender with a big heart. Together, they team up to make the hotel bar the place to be - and along the way, they become inseparable. A sweet, feel-good love story full of charm and summer vibes.
My Review: This was such a cute summer love story!
Thank you @dlcroisette for letting me be on your ARC team! 💖
August 19, 2025
I got this as an ARC!
Synopsis:
Stella is known for parties and extravagance in New York. She finds herself getting caught up in something that sends the press reeling over her actions, and her mother sends her to stay with her father for the summer. Her father sets her up as a manager in his hotel bar.
Matt is kind, loving and supportive of everyone around him. His dreams of running his own bar are so close, but he’s keeping a secret from his boss on what he does to save money to get the space for his own establishment. Then he meets Stella.
Stella promises not to tell her dad what Matt is doing, if he lets her live with him.
Review:
This book is sweet! Matt is a great book boyfriend and the book was so quick and easy to read! There are great spicy moments and wonderful conversations had by all the characters. The side characters are just as great, leaving you wanting to know more about them. I honestly wanted more story, more moments between Stella and Matt to show even more tension, which is why it’s closer to a 4 star for me. Overall it was a fun and enjoyable story! I definitely recommend reading.
Synopsis:
Stella is known for parties and extravagance in New York. She finds herself getting caught up in something that sends the press reeling over her actions, and her mother sends her to stay with her father for the summer. Her father sets her up as a manager in his hotel bar.
Matt is kind, loving and supportive of everyone around him. His dreams of running his own bar are so close, but he’s keeping a secret from his boss on what he does to save money to get the space for his own establishment. Then he meets Stella.
Stella promises not to tell her dad what Matt is doing, if he lets her live with him.
Review:
This book is sweet! Matt is a great book boyfriend and the book was so quick and easy to read! There are great spicy moments and wonderful conversations had by all the characters. The side characters are just as great, leaving you wanting to know more about them. I honestly wanted more story, more moments between Stella and Matt to show even more tension, which is why it’s closer to a 4 star for me. Overall it was a fun and enjoyable story! I definitely recommend reading.
August 14, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ c’était une belle romance, doux et léger! J’ai eu un peu de misère a embarquer au début vu que c’est écrit a la 3e personne et je préfère a la 1ere, mais ça n’a rien a voir avec le style d’ecriture de l’auteur que j’ai beaucoup apprécier sinon! J’ai adoré Matt, si attachant, loyal, dévoué, le parfait golden retriever book boyfriend (!) et j’ai fini par apprécier Stella aussi, le développement de son personnage est super beau! C’était plaisant de la voir se découvrir et s’épanouir.
August 19, 2025
You can quite easily just curl up and lose yourself in the story. I found it somewhat predictable, but that in no way put me off. I was hooked to find out how everything resolved itself in the end. A really good read if you are looking for something that’s not dark.
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