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Pine Harbour #2
Forever After All
Carter
Only I could fall for my sister-in-law's best friend. The absolute hurricane that is Alice Barretta.
After spending more and more time with Alice, it is clear that there is chemistry between us. The air is electric when we are together, but something is holding her back.
If I shoot my shot, and it doesn't work, then I'll break our incredible dynamic, am I prepared to take that risk?
If being friends with Alice is all we can ever be, I'll grab that opportunity with both hands.
If she needs me? I'm there. If she falls in love with me in the process? Even better.
Alice
My best friend knows me better than anyone, but I've been keeping a secret from her, from everyone, for more than ten years.
I hide behind a confident and funny exterior, but when I receive a shocking and unexpected message it rocks my world. I need to face my demons so I can finally bury the past.
There is one complication. Carter.
There is something between us, but dating him is something that cannot possibly happen, especially now that we've become friends.
When I need someone, Carter drops everything to support me. He is too good for me, but I don't think I can ever be enough for him.
Only I could fall for my sister-in-law's best friend. The absolute hurricane that is Alice Barretta.
After spending more and more time with Alice, it is clear that there is chemistry between us. The air is electric when we are together, but something is holding her back.
If I shoot my shot, and it doesn't work, then I'll break our incredible dynamic, am I prepared to take that risk?
If being friends with Alice is all we can ever be, I'll grab that opportunity with both hands.
If she needs me? I'm there. If she falls in love with me in the process? Even better.
Alice
My best friend knows me better than anyone, but I've been keeping a secret from her, from everyone, for more than ten years.
I hide behind a confident and funny exterior, but when I receive a shocking and unexpected message it rocks my world. I need to face my demons so I can finally bury the past.
There is one complication. Carter.
There is something between us, but dating him is something that cannot possibly happen, especially now that we've become friends.
When I need someone, Carter drops everything to support me. He is too good for me, but I don't think I can ever be enough for him.
- GenresContemporaryRomance
325 pages, Paperback
Published June 27, 2025
10 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Florence
3 books17 followersL.J. is a romance author, that lives on the South Coast of England with her husband and animal family.
When L.J. isn't writing, she is usually found walking one of her many dogs, cooking, or watching the ice hockey.
Follow L.J. on social media for the latest information, and the chaos that comes with being a new author.
When L.J. isn't writing, she is usually found walking one of her many dogs, cooking, or watching the ice hockey.
Follow L.J. on social media for the latest information, and the chaos that comes with being a new author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 28, 2025
✅♥️Thank you @ljflorenceauthor for the opportunity to read Forever After All. This is my honest review and all opinions expressed are my own.
My thoughts:
It was so much fun getting to know Alice and Carter!
What can possibly go wrong when you have a one night fling with your best friend’s brother-in-law? At your best friend’s wedding?
Read Forever After All and you will get the answers!
The flirty banter was on point!
Forever After All was a funny, heartwarming, no third act breakup story that I enjoyed reading. Perfect summer/beach reading!
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
My thoughts:
It was so much fun getting to know Alice and Carter!
What can possibly go wrong when you have a one night fling with your best friend’s brother-in-law? At your best friend’s wedding?
Read Forever After All and you will get the answers!
The flirty banter was on point!
Forever After All was a funny, heartwarming, no third act breakup story that I enjoyed reading. Perfect summer/beach reading!
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
June 27, 2025
Forever After All follows the story of Alice and Carter.
Carter has a thing for Alice. & Alice is just going through the motions of life. She is emotionally not ready for the type of love and attention Carter has to give.. until much much later in the book.
I loved seeing the vulnerability and trust in Carter from the start. He is the brother in law so there is already a bit of trust in him. The spicy scenes are spicy as heck even if we only got a few of them.
The banter and character development were off the charts good! A easy read and a happy ever after!
Thank you to Book Buzz PR and LJ Florence for an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Carter has a thing for Alice. & Alice is just going through the motions of life. She is emotionally not ready for the type of love and attention Carter has to give.. until much much later in the book.
I loved seeing the vulnerability and trust in Carter from the start. He is the brother in law so there is already a bit of trust in him. The spicy scenes are spicy as heck even if we only got a few of them.
The banter and character development were off the charts good! A easy read and a happy ever after!
Thank you to Book Buzz PR and LJ Florence for an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 1, 2025
When Alice's best friend marries Carter's brother, they become friends but there is an attraction under it all. When Alice gets some news from her hometown in England, she has a panic attack and Carter helps her thru it and then they end up hooking up. Carter wants more but Alice is scared because of her past. They keep their FWB situation a secret but their feelings are too strong. Alice has to go back to England for closure, Carter follows and they realize they're in love. Everyone already knew it but them. Will they get their happily ever after?
June 26, 2025
So I was lucky enough to be given an ARC copy by BuzzbooksPR from LJ Florence. And it is her new book called Forever After All, which I think is an interconnected standalone to her first one. I haven't read her first one yet but I really want to after reading this one. It's her Pine Harbour series, and it is out this Friday. I really liked the book!
So it's about a girl called Alice, and she has a best friend called Autumn. And she always does things as a four with Autumn's husband, Sawyer, and his brother, Carter. And it's a romance book so obviously she ends up falling in love with Carter.
It's about them navigating this relationship whilst not trying to ruin her friendship or his relationship with his brother. And I don't wanna give the book away but Alice has some relationships that haven't gone very well in the past so she kind of doesn't think that she's worth love, which is really sad.
But she definitely is, she's literally an angel. Everyone loves her, which is why it's kinda hard as a reader to read that. It made me feel bad for all these girls that genuinely have such low or damaged self esteem made by other men.
I thought the book touched on a really important topic of domestic abuse, and negative relationships and how you don't always know what someone's relationship is like. It might look perfect on the outside. They may seem like a lovely person, but actually on the inside, the relationship is not good and they're really unhappy. And it's made me sort of be quite mindful of that.
I really enjoyed the characters in the storyline. Carter was a famous hockey player, so we've got that sporty, muscly hockey player. And Alice is a curvy tall curvy queen, which i love because I'm sick of all of these main characters that are five foot nothing and super skinny. It's nice to have a diverse range of body types. But as someone who isn't the skinniest person in the world, it's nice to read someone that I can actually picture myself in that storyline.
I really like the characters. As I said, I thought Alice made really good decisions. I wasn't shouting at the book. And I thought her relationship with Carter was so cute. They definitely deserved their happy ever after together.
However, I do feel like their relationship was a little bit rushed. I'm pretty sure he asked her to marry her after, two weeks! I think that he did have a thing for her the first time he ever met her, but I think that still would have been too fast for me.
Also, the book had a nice amount of spice. I enjoyed those scenes, especially with a nice muscly hockey player and a curvy queen. So that was good.
I would if you get a chance to, read it, I would definitely do it because I really enjoyed it. Put it on your TBR and buy it when it comes out on Friday!
So it's about a girl called Alice, and she has a best friend called Autumn. And she always does things as a four with Autumn's husband, Sawyer, and his brother, Carter. And it's a romance book so obviously she ends up falling in love with Carter.
It's about them navigating this relationship whilst not trying to ruin her friendship or his relationship with his brother. And I don't wanna give the book away but Alice has some relationships that haven't gone very well in the past so she kind of doesn't think that she's worth love, which is really sad.
But she definitely is, she's literally an angel. Everyone loves her, which is why it's kinda hard as a reader to read that. It made me feel bad for all these girls that genuinely have such low or damaged self esteem made by other men.
I thought the book touched on a really important topic of domestic abuse, and negative relationships and how you don't always know what someone's relationship is like. It might look perfect on the outside. They may seem like a lovely person, but actually on the inside, the relationship is not good and they're really unhappy. And it's made me sort of be quite mindful of that.
I really enjoyed the characters in the storyline. Carter was a famous hockey player, so we've got that sporty, muscly hockey player. And Alice is a curvy tall curvy queen, which i love because I'm sick of all of these main characters that are five foot nothing and super skinny. It's nice to have a diverse range of body types. But as someone who isn't the skinniest person in the world, it's nice to read someone that I can actually picture myself in that storyline.
I really like the characters. As I said, I thought Alice made really good decisions. I wasn't shouting at the book. And I thought her relationship with Carter was so cute. They definitely deserved their happy ever after together.
However, I do feel like their relationship was a little bit rushed. I'm pretty sure he asked her to marry her after, two weeks! I think that he did have a thing for her the first time he ever met her, but I think that still would have been too fast for me.
Also, the book had a nice amount of spice. I enjoyed those scenes, especially with a nice muscly hockey player and a curvy queen. So that was good.
I would if you get a chance to, read it, I would definitely do it because I really enjoyed it. Put it on your TBR and buy it when it comes out on Friday!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2025
DNF at 25%
The characters and their relationship felt one-dimensional, and the writing just didn’t feel right. At times, this almost 30-year-old former hockey player spoke like my 70-year-old mom, while the female protagonist sounded like one of the guys. Additionally, I wasn’t sure for the first 10 chapters whether the book was set in America or Britain. Were the characters British? I don’t know. But why the mix of British words?
The characters and their relationship felt one-dimensional, and the writing just didn’t feel right. At times, this almost 30-year-old former hockey player spoke like my 70-year-old mom, while the female protagonist sounded like one of the guys. Additionally, I wasn’t sure for the first 10 chapters whether the book was set in America or Britain. Were the characters British? I don’t know. But why the mix of British words?
June 27, 2025
✨ It’s Release Day ✨
Forever After All by @ljflorenceauthor is officially out in the world today—and I just had to post my ARC Review on release day to be part of the celebration!
My Thoughts 💭:
I devoured this one in a single sitting. Hundreds of pages later, I was completely in love with Alice and Carter’s story. Carter? Ultimate book boyfriend energy. He falls—hard and first—for plus-size sweetheart Alice. 🫶🏻
Their chemistry? Off the charts 🥵
What really gripped me was Alice’s personal growth—moving forward from trauma—and the way Carter never once wavered in his support. He truly shows up for her, page after page.
Tropes/ Highlights :
✔️ Fresh start: Alice relocates from England to heal from a toxic past.
✔️ Friends to lovers
✔️ Retired athlete falls first (and fast!)
✔️ Cozy small town vibes
✔️ Fast-paced, binge-worthy read
✔️ And yes… it brings the heat 🔥
✔️ unputdownable
Thank you for giving us Alice & Carter. This story? One I’ll be swooning over for a while.
Forever After All by @ljflorenceauthor is available for purchase at @heabookshop and @amazon
Forever After All by @ljflorenceauthor is officially out in the world today—and I just had to post my ARC Review on release day to be part of the celebration!
My Thoughts 💭:
I devoured this one in a single sitting. Hundreds of pages later, I was completely in love with Alice and Carter’s story. Carter? Ultimate book boyfriend energy. He falls—hard and first—for plus-size sweetheart Alice. 🫶🏻
Their chemistry? Off the charts 🥵
What really gripped me was Alice’s personal growth—moving forward from trauma—and the way Carter never once wavered in his support. He truly shows up for her, page after page.
Tropes/ Highlights :
✔️ Fresh start: Alice relocates from England to heal from a toxic past.
✔️ Friends to lovers
✔️ Retired athlete falls first (and fast!)
✔️ Cozy small town vibes
✔️ Fast-paced, binge-worthy read
✔️ And yes… it brings the heat 🔥
✔️ unputdownable
Thank you for giving us Alice & Carter. This story? One I’ll be swooning over for a while.
Forever After All by @ljflorenceauthor is available for purchase at @heabookshop and @amazon
June 29, 2025
A few days ago, I picked up Forever After All by L.J. Florence - and I devoured it in literal hours! I don’t know what kind of magic Florence wove into this book, but wow, it was an addictive, fast-paced read. I absolutely loved it. Review done. Say no more.
Okay, no, but seriously. This was such a fun, heartfelt small-town romance. It’s filled with witty banter, an absolutely fabulous cast of characters, and of course, it does come with a lovely HEA.
Content Note: Before diving in, I want to flag that this book includes discussions of domestic violence. It’s never between the main characters, and it’s portrayed as off-page, historical content, but it is discussed multiple times. Please take this warning seriously if this may be a triggering topic for you - your mental health matters.
Now, let’s get into it.
We meet Alice - funny, gorgeous, strong, and resilient. She’s a survivor, and her strength brought me to tears.
Then there’s Carter - a retired athlete who falls fast and hard for Alice. He even counts down to the hour, how he’s been smitten with her since the day they met. He is the ultimate green flag. As the author said (and I completely agree): if you’re not single, you’ll wish your best friend could date him instead!
And yes - there’s that classic romance twist. Alice’s best friend Autumn is married to Sawyer… who just so happens to be Carter’s brother. You know where this is going, right?
The story kicks off with us learning that Alice left England to move closer to Autumn after a traumatic event - one she hasn’t even shared with her best friend, 10 years later. We’re thrown straight into the chaos at Autumn and Sawyer’s wedding, where Alice wakes up in her best friend’s brother-in-law’s bed. Cue panic, freak-outs, and one slightly awkward (but telling) morning-after conversation. What follows is the beginning of an electric friendship. If friendship is all they’ll ever have, they’ll take it - but the chemistry is undeniable.
Alice is guarded - and for good reason. Watching Carter slowly and gently break down those walls was so moving. Their bond deepens over time, and during a night out, an unexpected text from Alice’s mother sets off a powerful emotional chain reaction.
What follows is a rollercoaster of feelings, secrets, and a deeply intense, emotional scene that absolutely gutted me. Florence handled it with such care and realism - it was raw, relatable, and deeply impactful.
Carter’s response? Pure gold. Supportive, patient, compassionate - no grand gestures, just quiet, unwavering presence.
A man who listens. What a concept!
He made sure Alice knew she was safe, and that she wasn’t alone - and never would be again.
The story follows both Alice and Carter as individuals and together. Watching Alice slowly reclaim her sense of self, face her past, and realise she’s worthy of love and happiness was powerful. And Carter? He’s the kind of man who helps her see the light she’s always had.
Also, let’s take a moment to appreciate this: Alice is a plus-size FMC.
I am so here for this. Florence shared that she fell in love with plus-size romance because it helped her heal her relationship with her own body - and now she writes plus-size women and the men who love them unapologetically.
As someone plus-size myself who often struggles with self-worth, this absolutely resonated with me. Representation matters, and this story delivered.
I didn’t realise this was Book 2 in the Pine Harbour series, but it works perfectly as a standalone. That said - please excuse me while I go hunt down Forever After Never and dive into Autumn and Sawyer’s story.
I need more of this world. Immediately.
---
Thank you so much LJ Florence and BookBuzzPR for sending me an early copy to read and review!
Okay, no, but seriously. This was such a fun, heartfelt small-town romance. It’s filled with witty banter, an absolutely fabulous cast of characters, and of course, it does come with a lovely HEA.
Content Note: Before diving in, I want to flag that this book includes discussions of domestic violence. It’s never between the main characters, and it’s portrayed as off-page, historical content, but it is discussed multiple times. Please take this warning seriously if this may be a triggering topic for you - your mental health matters.
Now, let’s get into it.
We meet Alice - funny, gorgeous, strong, and resilient. She’s a survivor, and her strength brought me to tears.
Then there’s Carter - a retired athlete who falls fast and hard for Alice. He even counts down to the hour, how he’s been smitten with her since the day they met. He is the ultimate green flag. As the author said (and I completely agree): if you’re not single, you’ll wish your best friend could date him instead!
And yes - there’s that classic romance twist. Alice’s best friend Autumn is married to Sawyer… who just so happens to be Carter’s brother. You know where this is going, right?
The story kicks off with us learning that Alice left England to move closer to Autumn after a traumatic event - one she hasn’t even shared with her best friend, 10 years later. We’re thrown straight into the chaos at Autumn and Sawyer’s wedding, where Alice wakes up in her best friend’s brother-in-law’s bed. Cue panic, freak-outs, and one slightly awkward (but telling) morning-after conversation. What follows is the beginning of an electric friendship. If friendship is all they’ll ever have, they’ll take it - but the chemistry is undeniable.
Alice is guarded - and for good reason. Watching Carter slowly and gently break down those walls was so moving. Their bond deepens over time, and during a night out, an unexpected text from Alice’s mother sets off a powerful emotional chain reaction.
What follows is a rollercoaster of feelings, secrets, and a deeply intense, emotional scene that absolutely gutted me. Florence handled it with such care and realism - it was raw, relatable, and deeply impactful.
Carter’s response? Pure gold. Supportive, patient, compassionate - no grand gestures, just quiet, unwavering presence.
A man who listens. What a concept!
He made sure Alice knew she was safe, and that she wasn’t alone - and never would be again.
The story follows both Alice and Carter as individuals and together. Watching Alice slowly reclaim her sense of self, face her past, and realise she’s worthy of love and happiness was powerful. And Carter? He’s the kind of man who helps her see the light she’s always had.
Also, let’s take a moment to appreciate this: Alice is a plus-size FMC.
I am so here for this. Florence shared that she fell in love with plus-size romance because it helped her heal her relationship with her own body - and now she writes plus-size women and the men who love them unapologetically.
As someone plus-size myself who often struggles with self-worth, this absolutely resonated with me. Representation matters, and this story delivered.
I didn’t realise this was Book 2 in the Pine Harbour series, but it works perfectly as a standalone. That said - please excuse me while I go hunt down Forever After Never and dive into Autumn and Sawyer’s story.
I need more of this world. Immediately.
---
Thank you so much LJ Florence and BookBuzzPR for sending me an early copy to read and review!
June 28, 2025
Alice once endured an abusive relationship during her younger years. When the abuse turned dangerously physical, she made the decision to run. She left without telling anyone the real reason. She moved to the U.S., seeking a fresh start. Surrounded by new people, including her best friend who believed Alice moved for her, she finally felt secure. But just when everything seemed calm, her past began to haunt her. With an unexpected turn of events, she found strength and comfort in her best friend’s brother-in-law, Carter.
The book beautifully highlights that plus-size women are sexy and desirable. Alice is confident, and Carter makes sure she knows she’s someone to be adored and craved. She’s a princess in her own right. A woman who is strong, and worthy of love.
Carter gives off major Kristoff from Frozen vibes, a knight in shining armor who respects her strength. He’s always there when she needs him, never overpowering, just lovingly supportive. I loved how he go beyond the distance because he cares, he loves her. He’s the kind of book boyfriend we all wish for, the one who fights for you, makes you laugh, and reminds you that you're never alone.
I love how the book tackles trauma from abusive relationships. It shows how healing is not always linear. Even when someone believes they’ve moved on, a single trigger can resurface all the buried emotions. The inclusion of a grounding technique that Carter used (really stood out to me). It was both emotional for them both. I even messaged LJ after reading that chapter.
And the spice? Oh, it’s spicy! I still remember when LJ teased us with a sneak peek of one of the steamy scenes and let me tell you, reading that chapter in the actual book left me absolutely speechless. It moves from one spicy scene to another, each one hotter than the last. And let’s just say the places where those scenes happen? Worth silently screaming over!
The book beautifully highlights that plus-size women are sexy and desirable. Alice is confident, and Carter makes sure she knows she’s someone to be adored and craved. She’s a princess in her own right. A woman who is strong, and worthy of love.
Carter gives off major Kristoff from Frozen vibes, a knight in shining armor who respects her strength. He’s always there when she needs him, never overpowering, just lovingly supportive. I loved how he go beyond the distance because he cares, he loves her. He’s the kind of book boyfriend we all wish for, the one who fights for you, makes you laugh, and reminds you that you're never alone.
I love how the book tackles trauma from abusive relationships. It shows how healing is not always linear. Even when someone believes they’ve moved on, a single trigger can resurface all the buried emotions. The inclusion of a grounding technique that Carter used (really stood out to me). It was both emotional for them both. I even messaged LJ after reading that chapter.
And the spice? Oh, it’s spicy! I still remember when LJ teased us with a sneak peek of one of the steamy scenes and let me tell you, reading that chapter in the actual book left me absolutely speechless. It moves from one spicy scene to another, each one hotter than the last. And let’s just say the places where those scenes happen? Worth silently screaming over!
July 4, 2025
I received an ARC from bookbuzz PR and L.J. Florence, this is my honest review.
If you’re anything like me and love a slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance that makes you feel all the feelings, Forever After All by L.J. Florence might just be your next favorite. It’s tender, thoughtful, and emotionally layered in a way that really snuck up on me, and by the end, I was in my feels, in the best way.
Set in the cozy Pine Harbour universe, this book follows Carter who’s trying to figure out who he is now that his baseball career is over, and Alice, his sister-in-law’s best friend, a bright, funny, plus-size British heroine who’s been carrying a secret that’s been weighing on her heart for years. The two of them have history, chemistry, and so much unspoken tension, and watching them slowly move toward each other is a beautifully tender love story about trust, timing, and the courage it takes to be seen fully.
What I really appreciated about this story is how L.J. Florence doesn’t rush anything. The emotional build-up feels real, the stakes are personal, and when the truth comes out…oof. I felt it in my chest. The writing is heartfelt without being heavy, and the way Carter holds space for Alice once he knows everything? Whew. Green flag energy all around.
Also, I love that Alice is plus-size and radiant and complex, the heroine of her own story. I love that her body isn’t something she has to change or apologize for, she’s allowed to take up space, be sexy, be loved, and be the center of her own story. That matters. SO much.
If you’re looking for a romance that centers healing, honest communication (eventually!), and characters who feel like real people, this is for you. I’ll definitely be thinking about Alice and Carter for a while.
Tropes :
- Friends to lovers
- Plus-size sunshine heroine
- Retired athlete / cinnamon roll hero
- Found family
- Small-town romance
- Second chances (but not in the traditional way)
- He falls first (and hard)
If you’re anything like me and love a slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance that makes you feel all the feelings, Forever After All by L.J. Florence might just be your next favorite. It’s tender, thoughtful, and emotionally layered in a way that really snuck up on me, and by the end, I was in my feels, in the best way.
Set in the cozy Pine Harbour universe, this book follows Carter who’s trying to figure out who he is now that his baseball career is over, and Alice, his sister-in-law’s best friend, a bright, funny, plus-size British heroine who’s been carrying a secret that’s been weighing on her heart for years. The two of them have history, chemistry, and so much unspoken tension, and watching them slowly move toward each other is a beautifully tender love story about trust, timing, and the courage it takes to be seen fully.
What I really appreciated about this story is how L.J. Florence doesn’t rush anything. The emotional build-up feels real, the stakes are personal, and when the truth comes out…oof. I felt it in my chest. The writing is heartfelt without being heavy, and the way Carter holds space for Alice once he knows everything? Whew. Green flag energy all around.
Also, I love that Alice is plus-size and radiant and complex, the heroine of her own story. I love that her body isn’t something she has to change or apologize for, she’s allowed to take up space, be sexy, be loved, and be the center of her own story. That matters. SO much.
If you’re looking for a romance that centers healing, honest communication (eventually!), and characters who feel like real people, this is for you. I’ll definitely be thinking about Alice and Carter for a while.
Tropes :
- Friends to lovers
- Plus-size sunshine heroine
- Retired athlete / cinnamon roll hero
- Found family
- Small-town romance
- Second chances (but not in the traditional way)
- He falls first (and hard)
June 28, 2025
Title: Forever After All: Pine Harbour (Book 2)
Author: L.J. Florence
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 327
Rating: 4⭐️/5
“Did he really shove me, hit me, pinch me, or trip me?”
Alice is still working through the mess her last relationship left behind, and Carter —hockey pro known for his playboy reputation and viral shirtless interviews, steps in with calm, steady support—no over-the-top drama, just a guy who shows up and listens. Since they already kind of know each other (thanks to her best friend marrying his brother), there’s no awkward intro or insta-love, just two people slowly figuring things out. What was supposed to be a one-night mistake turns into something more when Carter keeps showing up, offering her patience, comfort, and the kind of steady affection she’s never known. Despite her walls, despite his past, Carter becomes the one person who makes Alice feel safe again. And maybe, just maybe, worth loving.
FOREVER AFTER ALL starts off strong with a prologue that instantly sets the tone—emotional, raw, and quietly powerful. It gives you just enough of Alice’s past to understand her walls without overwhelming you. From there, the story flows into heartfelt banter, genuine character growth, and slow-burning chemistry that feels earned, not rushed. Carter is supportive without overstepping, and Alice’s healing process unfolds in a way that feels real. The small-town setting adds a warm, grounded touch throughout. And just when you think your heart’s full, the epilogue sneaks in with a moment that made me actually giggle—such a sweet, satisfying ending to an emotional journey!
A big thanks to Book Buzz PR and L.J. Florence for providing me with a digital ARC of this book!
Released 06/27/25 on Amazon, KU and paperback.
—
#AdvancedReaderCopy
Author: L.J. Florence
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 327
Rating: 4⭐️/5
“Did he really shove me, hit me, pinch me, or trip me?”
Alice is still working through the mess her last relationship left behind, and Carter —hockey pro known for his playboy reputation and viral shirtless interviews, steps in with calm, steady support—no over-the-top drama, just a guy who shows up and listens. Since they already kind of know each other (thanks to her best friend marrying his brother), there’s no awkward intro or insta-love, just two people slowly figuring things out. What was supposed to be a one-night mistake turns into something more when Carter keeps showing up, offering her patience, comfort, and the kind of steady affection she’s never known. Despite her walls, despite his past, Carter becomes the one person who makes Alice feel safe again. And maybe, just maybe, worth loving.
FOREVER AFTER ALL starts off strong with a prologue that instantly sets the tone—emotional, raw, and quietly powerful. It gives you just enough of Alice’s past to understand her walls without overwhelming you. From there, the story flows into heartfelt banter, genuine character growth, and slow-burning chemistry that feels earned, not rushed. Carter is supportive without overstepping, and Alice’s healing process unfolds in a way that feels real. The small-town setting adds a warm, grounded touch throughout. And just when you think your heart’s full, the epilogue sneaks in with a moment that made me actually giggle—such a sweet, satisfying ending to an emotional journey!
A big thanks to Book Buzz PR and L.J. Florence for providing me with a digital ARC of this book!
Released 06/27/25 on Amazon, KU and paperback.
—
#AdvancedReaderCopy
June 29, 2025
This is the second book in the Pine Harbour series by L J Florence released 27/06/25.
A romance book where he falls first, and she doesn't want to open up to anyone.
The base storyline is definitely there I would have loved to have more of a build up to the reveal of what effected her, the idea has a lot of promise and if you are here for a quick, good time, this is a cute book for you!
I did enjoy getting to know the characters though I wish we'd been able to get to know them on a deeper level.
I enjoyed the start of the book a slow insight as to what Alice's past issues are, and how they are effecting her, however I felt it jumped right into her saying she can't open up to info dumping the first opportunity she had which made it have a much faster pace than I would have liked. There's a lot of heartfelt banter, genuine character growth, alongside a very fast paced chemistry between friends.
I love Carter's character, he's always there, never overstepping and has clear communication - even after a small hurdle where he becomes unsure he comes straight back not long after. Though I feel this was glossed over really fast and we didn't get to see Carter's feelings resolved. There was a lot going on in this book in a very short time, and I felt it could have been great.
Thank you so much for this opportunity!
Thank you to Book Buzz PR and L.J. Florence for providing me with a digital ARC of this book.
A romance book where he falls first, and she doesn't want to open up to anyone.
The base storyline is definitely there I would have loved to have more of a build up to the reveal of what effected her, the idea has a lot of promise and if you are here for a quick, good time, this is a cute book for you!
I did enjoy getting to know the characters though I wish we'd been able to get to know them on a deeper level.
I enjoyed the start of the book a slow insight as to what Alice's past issues are, and how they are effecting her, however I felt it jumped right into her saying she can't open up to info dumping the first opportunity she had which made it have a much faster pace than I would have liked. There's a lot of heartfelt banter, genuine character growth, alongside a very fast paced chemistry between friends.
I love Carter's character, he's always there, never overstepping and has clear communication - even after a small hurdle where he becomes unsure he comes straight back not long after. Though I feel this was glossed over really fast and we didn't get to see Carter's feelings resolved. There was a lot going on in this book in a very short time, and I felt it could have been great.
Thank you so much for this opportunity!
Thank you to Book Buzz PR and L.J. Florence for providing me with a digital ARC of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2025
I've just finished reading “Forever After All” and I fell completely in love with the story. It's a book that touches deeply, dealing with delicate themes such as trauma, psychological abuse and domestic violence in a sensitive and inspiring way.
The story follows Alice, a woman who has been carrying a silent pain for years, a trauma she has never told anyone about, not even her best friend. Her journey is marked by the pain of an abusive relationship, which has left deep scars on her soul.
Everything changes when Carter, the brother of her best friend's husband and a former field hockey athlete, meets Alice. From the moment he meets her, Carter feels an intense passion for her, which lasts for over a year. When Alice suffers a panic attack on discovering the death of her ex-boyfriend, it is Carter who stands out by her side, helping her get through that difficult time and offering the comfort she so desperately needs.
What I liked most was seeing Alice's evolution, how she gradually manages to stop living in fear and embrace the freedom of being who she really is. And Carter... what an incredible character! His persistence, his unconditional love and the way he supports Alice on her healing journey are truly touching.
And... the moments between them have an intense chemistry, with very spicy scenes that make the reading even more engaging. A read that mixes emotion, overcoming and passion in a wonderful way. I loved it!
The story follows Alice, a woman who has been carrying a silent pain for years, a trauma she has never told anyone about, not even her best friend. Her journey is marked by the pain of an abusive relationship, which has left deep scars on her soul.
Everything changes when Carter, the brother of her best friend's husband and a former field hockey athlete, meets Alice. From the moment he meets her, Carter feels an intense passion for her, which lasts for over a year. When Alice suffers a panic attack on discovering the death of her ex-boyfriend, it is Carter who stands out by her side, helping her get through that difficult time and offering the comfort she so desperately needs.
What I liked most was seeing Alice's evolution, how she gradually manages to stop living in fear and embrace the freedom of being who she really is. And Carter... what an incredible character! His persistence, his unconditional love and the way he supports Alice on her healing journey are truly touching.
And... the moments between them have an intense chemistry, with very spicy scenes that make the reading even more engaging. A read that mixes emotion, overcoming and passion in a wonderful way. I loved it!
July 6, 2025
Forever After All is book 2 in the Pine Harbour series, but can be read as a standalone. I read it this way and didn't feel like I was missing anything, but I would like to go back and read book 1 now.
Alice is running from an abusive relationship. She hasn't told anyone what happened or why she was fleeing, but that's the event that brought her back to her best friend, Autumn. She attends Autumns wedding where she meets Carter, the grooms brother. I loved how they didn't rush into things. They had chemistry, but they never really acted on it in the beginning remaining friends and honestly, that was such a breath of fresh air. Watching them become such close friends and become closer and more intimates was a great change of pace. But when it happens, but is it spicy. I love the banter and chemistry. I enjoyed the tension and push and pull between them.
Carter is an amazing character. He really is all the green flags. Also... the epilogue... just gives this story everything it needed. I think I loved that more than the whole story itself.
I recommend giving this one a read. It's definitely worth adding to your tbr. The pacing is great. The plot is easy to read, easy to follow, and interesting enough to keep you captivated.
Alice is running from an abusive relationship. She hasn't told anyone what happened or why she was fleeing, but that's the event that brought her back to her best friend, Autumn. She attends Autumns wedding where she meets Carter, the grooms brother. I loved how they didn't rush into things. They had chemistry, but they never really acted on it in the beginning remaining friends and honestly, that was such a breath of fresh air. Watching them become such close friends and become closer and more intimates was a great change of pace. But when it happens, but is it spicy. I love the banter and chemistry. I enjoyed the tension and push and pull between them.
Carter is an amazing character. He really is all the green flags. Also... the epilogue... just gives this story everything it needed. I think I loved that more than the whole story itself.
I recommend giving this one a read. It's definitely worth adding to your tbr. The pacing is great. The plot is easy to read, easy to follow, and interesting enough to keep you captivated.
July 8, 2025
I devoured this one in a single sitting. Hundreds of pages later, I was completely in love with Alice and Carter's story. He falls hard and first for plus-size sweetheart Alice.
They were more acquaintances than friends. But after a drunken room mix up at Sawyer and Autumn’s wedding their relationship changes. She thought they slept together because they wake up in the same hotel room bed. But Carter is more of a gentlemen than she thought and she finds that out through the chapters I this book. When confronted with news regarding her ex, she ends up in a full blown panic attack and Carter is once again there to save her. Carter was her angel that night and knew exactly how to take care of her even thought it was killing him to do what she was asking, but what he did was comfort her and she will be forever grateful for him.
What sucked me in was Alice's personal growth
moving forward from trauma and the way
Carter never once wavered in his support. He truly shows up for her, page after page.
And Alice is just the strongest woman. Going from her abusive past, to who she is now and feeling confident in her body is so beautiful.
They were more acquaintances than friends. But after a drunken room mix up at Sawyer and Autumn’s wedding their relationship changes. She thought they slept together because they wake up in the same hotel room bed. But Carter is more of a gentlemen than she thought and she finds that out through the chapters I this book. When confronted with news regarding her ex, she ends up in a full blown panic attack and Carter is once again there to save her. Carter was her angel that night and knew exactly how to take care of her even thought it was killing him to do what she was asking, but what he did was comfort her and she will be forever grateful for him.
What sucked me in was Alice's personal growth
moving forward from trauma and the way
Carter never once wavered in his support. He truly shows up for her, page after page.
And Alice is just the strongest woman. Going from her abusive past, to who she is now and feeling confident in her body is so beautiful.
June 20, 2025
After a traumatic experience, Alice leaves England to move closer to her best friend. During her best friends wedding day, Alice has a little too much fun, and wakes up in Carter's bed. Freaking out over sleeping with her best friends brother-in-law she storms out the next morning. After talking about the situation, they agree to be friends.
I absolutely loved Alice and Carter.
Alice has walls up for a good reason, and watching Carter knock them down was a good time. He was just so funny and flirty.
The tone changes when Alice gets an unexpected text from her mother. She is battling feelings nobody understands because there are secrets that she kept hidden. I loved how Carter reacted to it and did whatever he could to make sure she knew she was not alone and she was safe.
Glad they got their HEA.
I absolutely loved Alice and Carter.
Alice has walls up for a good reason, and watching Carter knock them down was a good time. He was just so funny and flirty.
The tone changes when Alice gets an unexpected text from her mother. She is battling feelings nobody understands because there are secrets that she kept hidden. I loved how Carter reacted to it and did whatever he could to make sure she knew she was not alone and she was safe.
Glad they got their HEA.
June 28, 2025
Absolutely devoured this story! In true friends to lovers fashion, Alice and Carter were barely friends. More acquaintances due to their proximity of other friendships. But when Alice is cornered at a wedding, Carter steps in and saves the day. Well, in more ways than one actually.
Alice, still dealing with past trauma, believes she is destined to never have a true relationship like her bestie, Autumn. When confronted with news regarding her ex, she ends up in a full blown panic attack and Carter is once again there to save her. I guess, he's more of a knight in shining armor really.
Carter is instantly head over heels for Alice and will stop at nothing to protect her. No matter the situation, he is determined to be everything he can be for her.
I love the growth of Alice's character after dealing with her past trauma, with Carter's help she is able to grow and heal.
Definitely recommend this series! The spice is on a whole other level of hotness.
Alice, still dealing with past trauma, believes she is destined to never have a true relationship like her bestie, Autumn. When confronted with news regarding her ex, she ends up in a full blown panic attack and Carter is once again there to save her. I guess, he's more of a knight in shining armor really.
Carter is instantly head over heels for Alice and will stop at nothing to protect her. No matter the situation, he is determined to be everything he can be for her.
I love the growth of Alice's character after dealing with her past trauma, with Carter's help she is able to grow and heal.
Definitely recommend this series! The spice is on a whole other level of hotness.
July 4, 2025
**ARC Review**
⭐️4/5 Worldbuilding
⭐️ 4.5/5 Characters
⭐️ 4/5 Plot
⭐️ 5/5 Banter
⭐️ 3/5 Thrill
⭐️ 5/5 Ease of Reading
⭐️ 4/5 Ending
💜 4/5 (Romance)
⭐️ 4/5 Overall
This book was such a fun and easy read! I mean, what could POSSIBLY go wrong when you have a one night stand with your best friend’s new brother in law AT HER WEDDING??
Alice and Carter were so fun and lovable, their banter being top tier and I loved their story together! This book also made me SO HAPPY because it didn’t have the traditional third act break up most books have, so I didn’t have to read ANOTHER book with a small miscommunication that snowballed into a break up only for them to get back together right after.
I highly recommend this book, it is so much fun!
⭐️4/5 Worldbuilding
⭐️ 4.5/5 Characters
⭐️ 4/5 Plot
⭐️ 5/5 Banter
⭐️ 3/5 Thrill
⭐️ 5/5 Ease of Reading
⭐️ 4/5 Ending
💜 4/5 (Romance)
⭐️ 4/5 Overall
This book was such a fun and easy read! I mean, what could POSSIBLY go wrong when you have a one night stand with your best friend’s new brother in law AT HER WEDDING??
Alice and Carter were so fun and lovable, their banter being top tier and I loved their story together! This book also made me SO HAPPY because it didn’t have the traditional third act break up most books have, so I didn’t have to read ANOTHER book with a small miscommunication that snowballed into a break up only for them to get back together right after.
I highly recommend this book, it is so much fun!
June 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book broke me in the best way.
I was not ready for the emotional damage this story would cause… and yet I devoured every page. The tension? Chef’s kiss. The heartbreak? Had me sobbing at 2am. The healing? So beautifully done.
L.J. Florence knows exactly how to ruin you and then gently put you back together again. If you’re into emotionally messy characters, longing that hurts, and love that feels like destiny—you need this book in your life. Immediately.
My new obsession. I will not be normal about it for a long time.
🩷 10/10
🩶 Highly recommend
💔 Beware: tears incoming
And it’s already out so go and run to read this
This book broke me in the best way.
I was not ready for the emotional damage this story would cause… and yet I devoured every page. The tension? Chef’s kiss. The heartbreak? Had me sobbing at 2am. The healing? So beautifully done.
L.J. Florence knows exactly how to ruin you and then gently put you back together again. If you’re into emotionally messy characters, longing that hurts, and love that feels like destiny—you need this book in your life. Immediately.
My new obsession. I will not be normal about it for a long time.
🩷 10/10
🩶 Highly recommend
💔 Beware: tears incoming
And it’s already out so go and run to read this
June 26, 2025
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC. This review and thoughts are mine alone.*
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
EXCUSE ME WHILE I GET MYSELF TOGETHER.
Carter Green. That’s it. That’s the whole review.
Green for green flag. Full stop. My gosh that man is literally the biggest green flag and the way i would SWOON if i found myself one of them…
And Alice is just the strongest woman. Going from her abusive past, to who she is now and feeling confident in her body is so beautiful.
My only complaint is it wasn’t longer. Give me more. I wanted it to keep going so bad!
Available TOMORROW!
Rating: 5⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
EXCUSE ME WHILE I GET MYSELF TOGETHER.
Carter Green. That’s it. That’s the whole review.
Green for green flag. Full stop. My gosh that man is literally the biggest green flag and the way i would SWOON if i found myself one of them…
And Alice is just the strongest woman. Going from her abusive past, to who she is now and feeling confident in her body is so beautiful.
My only complaint is it wasn’t longer. Give me more. I wanted it to keep going so bad!
Available TOMORROW!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2025
Billionaire romance.
Alice is a young woman who came to her best friend's wedding, but she didn't expect to end up in bed with the groom's brother. She's long had a crush on this handsome former hockey player but has never taken the plunge out of respect for her best friend.
Carter is a former hockey player who has a crush on his new sister-in-law's best friend. After ending up in bed and a misunderstanding, he's determined to win her over.
Will Carter be able to break down Alice's walls and live a beautiful story…
Alice is a young woman who came to her best friend's wedding, but she didn't expect to end up in bed with the groom's brother. She's long had a crush on this handsome former hockey player but has never taken the plunge out of respect for her best friend.
Carter is a former hockey player who has a crush on his new sister-in-law's best friend. After ending up in bed and a misunderstanding, he's determined to win her over.
Will Carter be able to break down Alice's walls and live a beautiful story…
June 28, 2025
*ARC Review*
Here's the thing, I always gonna love a psycho very unhinged book boyfriend, BUT! reading walking-green flags like Carter here? That could melt my heart in a freaking second.
It has a lovely and strong curvy FMC and a gorgeous former hockey player. They go from friends to fwb to love dirds,
With drama, past trauma, healthy friendships, and lots of good and steamy spice, this story was a very lovely ride.
Here's the thing, I always gonna love a psycho very unhinged book boyfriend, BUT! reading walking-green flags like Carter here? That could melt my heart in a freaking second.
It has a lovely and strong curvy FMC and a gorgeous former hockey player. They go from friends to fwb to love dirds,
With drama, past trauma, healthy friendships, and lots of good and steamy spice, this story was a very lovely ride.
June 29, 2025
This is such a cute read this is a friends to lovers, slow burn, small town trope. Our main character Carter and Alice had a fun night at a wedding they were guest at and they slowly develop feelings with each other the tension is wow. This was a fast pace book read it in one day, our main character Carter is a green flag for sure. It was written so nicely I highly recommend the story especially if you love fast pace book then this is your story.
August 1, 2025
4.5
Okay, so this is review is so delayed and I can only apologise to LJ, as she knows how I loved this book! 😍 this book is Book 2 of the Pine Harbour series and I have to say that I loved this so much! 😍 it was a quick and easy read that was full of drama, full of emotion and I laughed at so many points! This is a must read for any romance lover, but read Forever After Never first, this will be your new series obsession! 🥰
Okay, so this is review is so delayed and I can only apologise to LJ, as she knows how I loved this book! 😍 this book is Book 2 of the Pine Harbour series and I have to say that I loved this so much! 😍 it was a quick and easy read that was full of drama, full of emotion and I laughed at so many points! This is a must read for any romance lover, but read Forever After Never first, this will be your new series obsession! 🥰
Read
June 30, 2025one line in and i was already in tears, to see what alice went through all those years ago was heartbreaking and the tough exterior she put up so she wouldn’t be hurt again was so valid. i love how carter was always there for her and knew she was everything he needed. not gonna forget how he spoke to autumn though in the heat of the moment
July 4, 2025
This book was loads of fun, Carter and Alice have banter and then some 😂
It’s also full of emotion, overcoming past trauma and learning to trust again.
Great characters and although it’s book 2 in a series it can definitely be read as a standalone, but saying that you’ll want to read book 1 after reading this.
A great summer read.
It’s also full of emotion, overcoming past trauma and learning to trust again.
Great characters and although it’s book 2 in a series it can definitely be read as a standalone, but saying that you’ll want to read book 1 after reading this.
A great summer read.
July 6, 2025
I devoured this within a few days
I love a bit of spice in a book and this hit all the right buttons for that I also enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters and surrounding characters really added to the story there was humour and fun which is always great for a quick easy cute read
Loved that I got the chance to read this ❤️
Highly recommend ❤️
I love a bit of spice in a book and this hit all the right buttons for that I also enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters and surrounding characters really added to the story there was humour and fun which is always great for a quick easy cute read
Loved that I got the chance to read this ❤️
Highly recommend ❤️
August 8, 2025
received this book from a friend and i finished it in just two days! i love the banter and how the storyline is simple and the conflict and backstory; although a bit heavy, didn't affect the whole storyline and it keeps me reading through the night. Love that it is suitable for a light read after a busy day at work. Now I'm off to get the first book!
June 27, 2025
Friends to lovers story between Alice and Carter. He saves her at a wedding but he is her best friend's brother-in-law. She is suffering from trauma from her past. He is a retired athlete. He falls head over heels. I loved the storyline and the spice in the book. Definitely recommend this book.
June 28, 2025
Finished reading this ARC in one sitting. Alice and Carter both have pasts (mentions of DV), but if you love a small town romance where he falls first and she's on the chubby side, I recommend giving this a read. I loved the relationships and the spice was just right.
August 1, 2025
I thought this was the cutest little story! Carter and Alice are so cute together. I was grinning so hard that I couldn't take it. I loved how he really did love her especially as a friend too. He spent time getting to know her and she started to open up about her life. The vulnerability of these two really made my heart happy. There was a mutual understanding with them, and the closer they got, the more the opened up. I loved that Carter was down bad from day one, and their one night sorta stand was a great plot for the story. I also just loved the overall found family of the story.
The scene that just warmed me was when Carter showed up while we she went back for the funeral. I was in shamblesssss. Because we love a man who cares. Goodness I was mess.
Thank you Bookbuzz for this read! And LJ for letting me read your story! Can't wait for the next one!
The scene that just warmed me was when Carter showed up while we she went back for the funeral. I was in shamblesssss. Because we love a man who cares. Goodness I was mess.
Thank you Bookbuzz for this read! And LJ for letting me read your story! Can't wait for the next one!
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