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Love in LA #2
Terms Of Un-Endearment
Two ex-step-siblings. One beach house. Zero chill.
Archie Forsythe has two weeks left in the South Bay beach house his father gifted him but now wants back as part of a messy divorce. Archie’s plan is simple: stall, stay quiet, and finally launch his surf wear brand without his father’s money or control.
Piper Quinn has nowhere else to go.
With an internship at a high-end fashion label and rent in LA out of reach, she moves into the beach house her mom swears is rightfully hers. There’s just one problem: Archie’s still there—and he’s not leaving.
They haven’t spoken in years. But now, stuck under the same roof, they’re picking up right where they left off…with bickering, boundary-pushing, and a prank war that escalates fast.
She hides his towels, dyes his hair, and slips self-tanner into his face wash. He hides her coffee, hijacks her alarm clock, and swaps her perfume with garlic oil. But somewhere between the sabotage and the stolen glances, the tension starts to shift.
Maybe the only thing worse than sharing a house with your ex-step-sibling… is realizing you don’t want them to leave.
A warm, slow-burn romantic comedy full of beach vibes, sharp banter, and sweet enemies-to-lovers tension. Perfect for fans of Beach Read, The Hating Game, and People We Meet on Vacation.
Archie Forsythe has two weeks left in the South Bay beach house his father gifted him but now wants back as part of a messy divorce. Archie’s plan is simple: stall, stay quiet, and finally launch his surf wear brand without his father’s money or control.
Piper Quinn has nowhere else to go.
With an internship at a high-end fashion label and rent in LA out of reach, she moves into the beach house her mom swears is rightfully hers. There’s just one problem: Archie’s still there—and he’s not leaving.
They haven’t spoken in years. But now, stuck under the same roof, they’re picking up right where they left off…with bickering, boundary-pushing, and a prank war that escalates fast.
She hides his towels, dyes his hair, and slips self-tanner into his face wash. He hides her coffee, hijacks her alarm clock, and swaps her perfume with garlic oil. But somewhere between the sabotage and the stolen glances, the tension starts to shift.
Maybe the only thing worse than sharing a house with your ex-step-sibling… is realizing you don’t want them to leave.
A warm, slow-burn romantic comedy full of beach vibes, sharp banter, and sweet enemies-to-lovers tension. Perfect for fans of Beach Read, The Hating Game, and People We Meet on Vacation.
330 pages, ebook
Published July 29, 2025
123 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
About the author
Brittany Larsen
28 books230 followersBrittany Larsen is the author of fourteen full-length and three novella-length sweet romantic comedies, plus a couple more historical romance novellas set in the Old West. Brittany’s stories range across time and place, but they’re always about one thing: connection. They’re guaranteed to make you laugh and maybe even tear up a little.
Born and raised in Idaho, Brittany has spent the past twenty years (maybe more) living the California dream… If that dream includes wearing sweatpants all day and gorging herself on red Australian licorice–Australia’s second-best export (Chris Hemsworth being the obvious first). When not writing, she teaches hot yoga, walks her dog, and takes naps. Her sweater-sporting, mini Aussi-doodle, Bo, is her favorite writing companion. But her favorite people are her husband and three daughters.
Born and raised in Idaho, Brittany has spent the past twenty years (maybe more) living the California dream… If that dream includes wearing sweatpants all day and gorging herself on red Australian licorice–Australia’s second-best export (Chris Hemsworth being the obvious first). When not writing, she teaches hot yoga, walks her dog, and takes naps. Her sweater-sporting, mini Aussi-doodle, Bo, is her favorite writing companion. But her favorite people are her husband and three daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 213 reviews
dnf
August 11, 2025DNF…early on. While I enjoyed Britta’s book 1 in this series, I missed this was…an EX STEP SIBLING romance and honestly, the dynamic of the lustful thoughts at the beginning, him still calling her “sis” and he’s kissing his biceps working out…and she goes to film him for a Tik Tok video as a prank, but thinks of it like a thirst trap, and thennnnn he is like when did my step sister get to be so hot?
YALL I’m sorry. Not for me. I appreciate the author sending me this to listen to for review but unfortunately, I can’t read/rate this because I’m creeped out.
YALL I’m sorry. Not for me. I appreciate the author sending me this to listen to for review but unfortunately, I can’t read/rate this because I’m creeped out.
August 15, 2025
2.5⭐️(rounded up)
thank you netgalley and publishers for providing me with an arc of this book<33
piper and archie were cute😭💓
I laugh. He smiles. My day gets a little better.
but, almost definitely just a me problem (idk what’s been up with my brain recently), i kept forgetting who the side characters were😔 and i got (a bit more than) slightly weirded out to the constant reference to them being (EX) step-siblings (it died down after a while but still)… definitely new territory for me😓
i had fun with this (kind of) it was cute and easy to read (despite it taking me a while to get into🫣😪) but i’ll probably forget everything about it in a month- it wasn’t the most memorable read for me but it was still somewhat enjoyable!💓💓
full rtc💞
thank you netgalley and publishers for providing me with an arc of this book<33
piper and archie were cute😭💓
I laugh. He smiles. My day gets a little better.
but, almost definitely just a me problem (idk what’s been up with my brain recently), i kept forgetting who the side characters were😔 and i got (a bit more than) slightly weirded out to the constant reference to them being (EX) step-siblings (it died down after a while but still)… definitely new territory for me😓
i had fun with this (kind of) it was cute and easy to read (despite it taking me a while to get into🫣😪) but i’ll probably forget everything about it in a month- it wasn’t the most memorable read for me but it was still somewhat enjoyable!💓💓
full rtc💞
August 13, 2025
* I just re-read this book by listening to the audio & it was fantastic! The narrators did a great job of bringing the story to life & I adored Archie's Australian accent. The dual narration made listening to this story such a joy. *
What an absolutely wonderful story! Piper and Archie's reunion was at first filled with animosity and pranks but eventually these two had their eyes opened to who each other truly were, leading to the beginning of a friendship that also walked the line of a growing attraction.
I'm not usually one who enjoys pranks in books, but I have to say that I was all in on the war these two waged against each other. Piper pulled out some especially creative stunts, too! But, I appreciated the way both Archie and Piper began to feel badly about their pranks and I loved the moment when they decided to try to help each other instead.
Seeing characters from Britta and the Beach Boy, as well as Mitzi's novella, was special, too. And I thought that the step sibling scenario was pretty perfect in this story with the way that these two may have technically been step siblings, but they never grew up together.
The romantic chemistry was spot on and the slow burn worked perfectly for this storyline. This was a book I didn't want to set down.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
What an absolutely wonderful story! Piper and Archie's reunion was at first filled with animosity and pranks but eventually these two had their eyes opened to who each other truly were, leading to the beginning of a friendship that also walked the line of a growing attraction.
I'm not usually one who enjoys pranks in books, but I have to say that I was all in on the war these two waged against each other. Piper pulled out some especially creative stunts, too! But, I appreciated the way both Archie and Piper began to feel badly about their pranks and I loved the moment when they decided to try to help each other instead.
Seeing characters from Britta and the Beach Boy, as well as Mitzi's novella, was special, too. And I thought that the step sibling scenario was pretty perfect in this story with the way that these two may have technically been step siblings, but they never grew up together.
The romantic chemistry was spot on and the slow burn worked perfectly for this storyline. This was a book I didn't want to set down.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
July 23, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book, and it did not disappoint. It has so much heart and more depth than I expected. The pranks that Piper and Archie pulled on each other were hilarious. I loved the tension between the two of them that changed from annoyance, to attraction, to fighting their interest in one another, etc. Archie was naive and made some dumb mistakes in the past, but he had such a big heart and tried to think the best of people. I loved his character arc. Piper’s feisty and independent personality was so great. The supporting characters definitely added to the story (It was fun to see some from Britta and the Beach Boy again). A delightful romcom with a happy ending, while exploring topics like misjudgments, people’s motives, and family dynamics. Excellent story!
July 16, 2025
This is great! I love Britta & the beach boy, so loved getting more of them through this book. Piper and Archie at war with each was highly enjoyable! I loved the breakaway from toxic relationships. I want to get to know all the side characters because each one has a story that I need to know how it ends! Oh and I love reading a book that I can hear the voices in my head, Archie and his slang was great, yeah nah 🤣 and my hometown footy team got a shout out, go Cats!
❤️Step siblings
💚Prank wars
💙Toxic parental
💛Forced proximtry
💜Found family
❤️Step siblings
💚Prank wars
💙Toxic parental
💛Forced proximtry
💜Found family
August 21, 2025
I was so excited to read Archie’s story after meeting him in Britta & the Beach Boy. I loved Piper for him. She wasn’t about to let Archie walk all over her anymore and they both challenged each other’s perspectives. This was the ultimate slow burn but I actually enjoyed it (normally it starts to annoy me). Their story needed the slow build and their prank war was hilarious. Also loved the found family theme.
I also listened to the audiobook and loved how it adds a realness to the story even though I just read the ebook. The narration was great. I love when there are two people reading so it’s not just the girl and a weird girly sounding guy. It was especially nice in this book because of Archie’s Australian accent; it just adds so much to the story.
I also listened to the audiobook and loved how it adds a realness to the story even though I just read the ebook. The narration was great. I love when there are two people reading so it’s not just the girl and a weird girly sounding guy. It was especially nice in this book because of Archie’s Australian accent; it just adds so much to the story.
September 9, 2025
2⭐️ DNF at 25%
ALC Review: This isn’t necessarily a review for the ALC, but for the actual book and its writing. Because honestly, the audiobook was well done. The MMC narrator was Australian, which is always nice, and when the FMC narrator uses her man voice, she had a really good Australian accent. I enjoyed their voices. They were well suited to the characters. So 4 stars for the audiobook! But for the book as a whole, I just could not. I didn’t even sign up to get the ALC, so I have no idea how that happened ha.
The main characters were just not it. Archie seemed very very strange. You don’t get to know him very well in the first 25% of the book (which is as far as I got) But what you do get, he seems very self absorbed. Like, he kisses his biceps during a workout and just subconsciously does tricep dips on the counter top. Like what?
Piper was fine as a character. I really didn’t form much of an opinion of her. They both just seemed like they had zero personality, so I couldn’t go on.
Plus, ex-step siblings falling in love is one of those tropes that toes a weird line. When the parents are only married for a year or two, I don’t think it’s like crazy weird. But these MC’s parents were married for 10 years! At that point those step siblings have created a very close sibling bond. In my opinion. The author tries to emphasize the MMC hated the FMC. But that wasn’t enough for me to not cringe and think that’s very yucky.
Anyways, this books was not for me. I don’t think I will pick it up again in the future either.
*Thank you to the author, Brittany Larsen, for the complimentary listening copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
ALC Review: This isn’t necessarily a review for the ALC, but for the actual book and its writing. Because honestly, the audiobook was well done. The MMC narrator was Australian, which is always nice, and when the FMC narrator uses her man voice, she had a really good Australian accent. I enjoyed their voices. They were well suited to the characters. So 4 stars for the audiobook! But for the book as a whole, I just could not. I didn’t even sign up to get the ALC, so I have no idea how that happened ha.
The main characters were just not it. Archie seemed very very strange. You don’t get to know him very well in the first 25% of the book (which is as far as I got) But what you do get, he seems very self absorbed. Like, he kisses his biceps during a workout and just subconsciously does tricep dips on the counter top. Like what?
Piper was fine as a character. I really didn’t form much of an opinion of her. They both just seemed like they had zero personality, so I couldn’t go on.
Plus, ex-step siblings falling in love is one of those tropes that toes a weird line. When the parents are only married for a year or two, I don’t think it’s like crazy weird. But these MC’s parents were married for 10 years! At that point those step siblings have created a very close sibling bond. In my opinion. The author tries to emphasize the MMC hated the FMC. But that wasn’t enough for me to not cringe and think that’s very yucky.
Anyways, this books was not for me. I don’t think I will pick it up again in the future either.
*Thank you to the author, Brittany Larsen, for the complimentary listening copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 14, 2025
I loved this hilarious and swoony story! From the start I was hooked. Definitely read this one!
August 26, 2025
If you love a good enemies to more story, full of witty banter, lots of great pranks (clean), a sweet love story, family dynamics, great friendships, finding one's own way, forgiveness, healing, and much more, this is definitely a book that fits the bill!
Piper really tugged at my heart from the get go. She has quite the situation she's trying to navigate and I was cheering her on when it seemed like life was going to fall into place for her. But this is a rom-com and there's always a twist in the adventure...am I right? *Nods head*
Enter Archie Forsythe...arch nemesis...can we call him that? These two have been pitted against each other, or rather Archie pitted himself against Piper years ago when his dad married Piper's mom. Long story, all explained in the book. Now these two are forced to be in the same home that was given to Piper's mom in the divorce settlement. But one of them belongs and the other doesn't! Which one is going to back down, which one is going to push too far in trying to get the other to leave? Hahaha! Let the pranks begin!
I know several readers couldn't get past these two being step-siblings, which I can see how that would make some people cautious. But I thought the author did a great job showing a clean line between their relationship as step-siblings and after as not being step-siblings. There was a very clear line drawn and I felt like it worked. I don't usually read that trope, I have a couple in the past, and one worked and the other didn't. But for me, I felt like this worked. Again, this isn't a trope that works for everyone, but if you're on the fence, I wanted to say that I thought the way it was written worked really well for this one. But if it's not your thing, definitely don't force yourself to read it.
I didn't read the first book in this series, but the main characters from it have several different scenes that they appear in and made me want to go back and read their book.
Content: I would consider this a clean read. There are a few sweet kisses near the end and nothing further. Archie is a surfer and used to living on his own next to the beach, so there are a few scenes where he's not wearing a shirt. There is a spot in a scene where there is an exposed bottom for just a second.
I received a copy from the author via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Piper really tugged at my heart from the get go. She has quite the situation she's trying to navigate and I was cheering her on when it seemed like life was going to fall into place for her. But this is a rom-com and there's always a twist in the adventure...am I right? *Nods head*
Enter Archie Forsythe...arch nemesis...can we call him that? These two have been pitted against each other, or rather Archie pitted himself against Piper years ago when his dad married Piper's mom. Long story, all explained in the book. Now these two are forced to be in the same home that was given to Piper's mom in the divorce settlement. But one of them belongs and the other doesn't! Which one is going to back down, which one is going to push too far in trying to get the other to leave? Hahaha! Let the pranks begin!
I know several readers couldn't get past these two being step-siblings, which I can see how that would make some people cautious. But I thought the author did a great job showing a clean line between their relationship as step-siblings and after as not being step-siblings. There was a very clear line drawn and I felt like it worked. I don't usually read that trope, I have a couple in the past, and one worked and the other didn't. But for me, I felt like this worked. Again, this isn't a trope that works for everyone, but if you're on the fence, I wanted to say that I thought the way it was written worked really well for this one. But if it's not your thing, definitely don't force yourself to read it.
I didn't read the first book in this series, but the main characters from it have several different scenes that they appear in and made me want to go back and read their book.
Content: I would consider this a clean read. There are a few sweet kisses near the end and nothing further. Archie is a surfer and used to living on his own next to the beach, so there are a few scenes where he's not wearing a shirt. There is a spot in a scene where there is an exposed bottom for just a second.
I received a copy from the author via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
August 20, 2025
Updated review: I listened to the audiobook and loved it! I thought both narrators did a fantastic job getting the emotions across and I loved Archie's Aussie accent.
Original review:
Terms of Un-Endearment is a laugh-out-loud romcom brimming with sharp banter, escalating pranks, and surprising tenderness. Ex-step-siblings Archie and Piper being forced to share a coveted beach house set the perfect stage for chaos. (Note: they NEVER lived together as siblings.)
Archie Forsythe has exactly two weeks left before his father reclaims the South Bay beach house he’s been living in—and he’s determined to use that time to get his surfwear brand off the ground without a penny of his father’s money. Piper Quinn needs a place to live while working her internship at a high-end fashion label, and her mom insists the beach house should belong to her. When Piper shows up expecting an empty house and instead finds Archie still there, the standoff begins.
I've wanted to know more about Archie ever since I read Britta & the Beach Boy, and because enemies-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, there was no way I was passing up the opportunity to read this latest book by Brittany Larsen.
The escalating prank war that ensues is both petty and clever—hidden towels, sabotaged smoothies, tampered perfume and shampoo, and more. I'm not one for pranks but these are so clever an fairly harmless. In between the ridiculous one-ups, the author sneaks in moments of vulnerability—glimpses of Archie’s determination to prove himself and Piper’s desire to create her future.
The forced proximity sizzles with chemistry between Archie and Piper, and I love the banter. Watching them shift from rivals to unexpected partners to something dangerously close to love is so satisfying. The mischief draws you in, but it’s the heart beneath the pranks that makes the story shine.
This was a super fun summer read and I can't wait for more Love in LA! I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
Original review:
Terms of Un-Endearment is a laugh-out-loud romcom brimming with sharp banter, escalating pranks, and surprising tenderness. Ex-step-siblings Archie and Piper being forced to share a coveted beach house set the perfect stage for chaos. (Note: they NEVER lived together as siblings.)
Archie Forsythe has exactly two weeks left before his father reclaims the South Bay beach house he’s been living in—and he’s determined to use that time to get his surfwear brand off the ground without a penny of his father’s money. Piper Quinn needs a place to live while working her internship at a high-end fashion label, and her mom insists the beach house should belong to her. When Piper shows up expecting an empty house and instead finds Archie still there, the standoff begins.
I've wanted to know more about Archie ever since I read Britta & the Beach Boy, and because enemies-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, there was no way I was passing up the opportunity to read this latest book by Brittany Larsen.
The escalating prank war that ensues is both petty and clever—hidden towels, sabotaged smoothies, tampered perfume and shampoo, and more. I'm not one for pranks but these are so clever an fairly harmless. In between the ridiculous one-ups, the author sneaks in moments of vulnerability—glimpses of Archie’s determination to prove himself and Piper’s desire to create her future.
The forced proximity sizzles with chemistry between Archie and Piper, and I love the banter. Watching them shift from rivals to unexpected partners to something dangerously close to love is so satisfying. The mischief draws you in, but it’s the heart beneath the pranks that makes the story shine.
This was a super fun summer read and I can't wait for more Love in LA! I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
August 21, 2025
I think the description is good, but the enemies to lovers tension wasn't really there for me. It is a sweet book. The characters have some growth, but it was just lacking the connection I was hoping for. If you want a very slow burn (like the characters have no tension or even feelings towards one another for most of the book) then this is for you. I do like that it was realistic and think this is more how real life would be portrayed, but I went in thinking I would get lots of delicious tension and got none of that. If you like prank wars, this is also your kind of book as well. It just missed the mark for me.
did-not-finish
July 16, 2025DNF @ 23%
July 16, 2025
So good I wish there was more! This book is interesting. The first 70% is basically a long foreplay of their relationship. You get the backstory of both Piper and Archie, while learning who they’re becoming. From prank wars to unfair blame- and finding attraction somewhere in between. I love the character growth that both Archie and Piper have separate and together. I loved the “found family” theme. While some characters were related- the others in the family were not blood related but friends. It shows that blood isn’t always thicker than water.
There were two themes in this book that I usually don’t enjoy- age gap and step siblings. HOWEVER. There wasn’t much emphasis on the age gap. It was touched on toward the end, not in a spotlight way, but a mature matter of fact way. Also, the step-sibling was really in name only. They didn’t grow up living together seeing each other as siblings so it was easier to overlook. And honestly I had no issues reading about it.
I do wish there was more on Archie and Pipers love and Bombora story. It’s more toward the end of the book, but I will say it left me wanting to read more!! Definitely a cute summer read I would recommend!
There were two themes in this book that I usually don’t enjoy- age gap and step siblings. HOWEVER. There wasn’t much emphasis on the age gap. It was touched on toward the end, not in a spotlight way, but a mature matter of fact way. Also, the step-sibling was really in name only. They didn’t grow up living together seeing each other as siblings so it was easier to overlook. And honestly I had no issues reading about it.
I do wish there was more on Archie and Pipers love and Bombora story. It’s more toward the end of the book, but I will say it left me wanting to read more!! Definitely a cute summer read I would recommend!
July 17, 2025
A fun story of finding your true self and working for your dreams
Piper and Archie first met when his father married her mother. It was not a blending of families as much as a declaration of war between the two. Now years later, their parents are divorcing and Piper’s mom is to receive the beach house in the settlement. That is perfect because Piper needs a place to stay during her internship at a fashion design house and the beach house is empty or is it. Archie is unaware of the arrangement and happily living and surfing there. But they soon discover that for either one to proceed with their dreams they must set aside old feelings and work together against a common foe. But can they keep romance out of the picture when the battles rage? I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
Piper and Archie first met when his father married her mother. It was not a blending of families as much as a declaration of war between the two. Now years later, their parents are divorcing and Piper’s mom is to receive the beach house in the settlement. That is perfect because Piper needs a place to stay during her internship at a fashion design house and the beach house is empty or is it. Archie is unaware of the arrangement and happily living and surfing there. But they soon discover that for either one to proceed with their dreams they must set aside old feelings and work together against a common foe. But can they keep romance out of the picture when the battles rage? I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
July 29, 2025
This is a dream read . It’s a scream it’s a delight and it has some bite. I read with greed as I was up to speed having read the characters before in Britta and the Beach Boy the first book in the Love in LA series . This second book is well worth a look or seven because it’s heaven! It really is the lovers kiss or should that be the Glasgow one because they’re both not happy about each other . He’s so over being her brother! I do adore all the angst and the characters back biting antics the pranks and the no thanks! They both gave as good as they got and there’s so much packed into these delicious pages it’s hot. We’ve got surfer dude twin brother to Frankie ,Arch/Archie Forsythe ,he is living in the family beach house turned over to him in order for his dad the cad to get out of settling on his divorce to their stepmother but he got found out ,well she already knew about it ,as if she wouldn’t . So now he’s gone and settled his beach place to his ex and Archie boy is out on his ear .He’s got two weeks to get out and his daddy dearest is expecting his son back in the city. His stepsister Piper Quinn is moving in so he’s gotta scram . Well this has him throwing his toys out of his pram. He’s not like his sister Frankie who went out on her own when their father ,she did disown .No he needs to be in his dad’s good books ,he needs the money to start up Bombora his surfing clothing brand won’t that be grand . But now it’s up in the sky and by the by . He’s always felt hard done by second best to the pest ,his stepsister ,his dad doted on her and gave her things sent her through school . Well he’s not having it she can turn right back around it’s NOT going down. Piper Quinn has fulfilled her dream or soon will she’s been accepted at the prestigious fashion house by Luca who is world renowned. Her mother has met another man and she’s happily traveling but insists that her daughter move in although she’s unraveling. Her mom insists that whilst she’s studying her internship it’s hers.Piper turns up not expecting Archie still in situ with the house in disarray give her a tissue to wipe her hands as she berates on him and makes her demands . This is awesome the fireworks have started bam! There’s lots,going on and it’s fun to read ,it is such a fun fest it’s light and sunny and a little bit angst too . She ends up moving in as she’s nowhere else to go but it’s under sufferance she lets him know and he agrees it’s not the best idea but he’ll give her the night then she’s outta here …Yeah right think again and on it goes in a splendid show . Where will it go ? Will he leave quietly ,will she? They are mortal enemies it’s plain to see . She can’t get in touch with mum and what his dad’s saying, or not as it’s a third party who is acting on his behalf who is making him glum. So this beach bum and fashionista in the making do they get together? Well there’s chemistry ,in fact it’s explosive. They’re not still a minute with all the pranking. She dyes his hair and colours his face. Even strewn rubbish all over the place ,oh actually that’s just his room as he makes the mess in the other rooms… Confused as heck? Yeah well it gets better ,or is that worse ? Oh heck! Brittany Larsen I had a blast lass .This is so funny and those end of chapter books to keep me reading the book are absolute pearls ,they’re all a gem . Love them! I love these brilliantly written scenes that make me whoop in delight in the middle of the night when I should be sleeping and if a sudden I’m weeping with happy and can’t keep it in grin . My cheekbones don’t know what they’re doing! My face aches for goodness sake this book made me so happy! Nailed it not mailed it ,it’s right up my street . I read through the night ,didn’t get no sleep . Thanks mate ,this was great ! The characters are top notch and not at all hotchpotch . Very well written and the storyline is divine . Brittany Larsen my dear , sublime! I shed a tear!
August 6, 2025
I love a good enemies to lovers romcom and this one has an epic prank war too! I love that this story is in dual POV and that there are two narrators! The narrators did a fantastic job bringing this story to life!
I received an audio ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received an audio ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
July 25, 2025
I received an advanced copy of Brittany Larsen’s newest book, “Terms of Un-Endearment” and it did not disappoint! I love all of Brittany’s books - they are witty and fun and very well written. I didn’t want to put this one down! The main characters, Piper and Archie, were step siblings who did not like each other when they were younger. When they are thrown back together as adults the sparks fly! Their prank war is hilarious! It was fun to reconnect with characters from “Britta and the Beach Boy” too. Loved it!
September 6, 2025
When your mom swears a beach house is rightfully yours, you pack your bags to claim i—except… surprise! Your ex-stepbrother is still living there, refusing to leave. Now you’re stuck sharing a roof with the guy you’ve been verbally sparring with for years.
Cue the ultimate prank war, escalating from coffee sabotage to dye-job disasters—all while trying (and failing) to ignore those pesky sparks flying beneath the insults.
In 𝙏𝙚𝙧𝙢𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙐𝙣-𝙀𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩, Brittany Larsen delivers a rom-com packed with laugh-out-loud banter, swoony slow-burn tension, and plenty of heart—a perfect blend of sunshine, snark, and growth.
WHAT I LOVED
• 😂 The Pranks – harmless but wildly creative (tiny towels, swapped toiletries… pure gold).
• 💬 The Banter – sharp and hilarious, keeping the tension high.
• 🌴 Beach Vibes – salty air, ocean breezes, and ultimate summer escapism.
• ❤️ Character Growth – both Archie and Piper face past hurts while forging their futures.
• 👥 Cameos – fun appearances from Britta and the Beach Boy characters.
TOP MOMENTS TO LOOK FOR (no spoilers!)
• 🤯 The prank that backfires in the most epic way.
• 🍳 A cozy kitchen scene that’s equal parts swoony and funny.
• ⛓️ Archie’s paper chain rule—it’s tender and symbolic.
• 💋 That first kiss. Worth the wait. 😍
• 🌙 A late-night heart-to-heart that changes everything.
FINAL THOUGHTS 💭
This book feels like summer in paperback form—bright, breezy, and endlessly fun. Brittany Larsen perfectly balances humor and heart, giving us a rom-com where pranks lead to laughter, laughter leads to feelings, and feelings lead to swoony, clean romance.
While I adored the humor and pacing, there were a few moments I wished for slightly deeper exploration of certain conflicts—that’s what kept this one at four stars instead of five for me. Still, it’s a charming, highly enjoyable read and a perfect pick for fans of slow-burn enemies-to-lovers stories.
⸻
⚠️ CONTENT WARNINGS
• Language: No profanity or crude language
• Sexual Content: Closed-door. Kissing only. Some lustful thoughts but not explicit.
• Violence: Very light—non-graphic, prank-style mischief only.
• Triggers: Mentions of messy divorce, family tension.
• TV/Movie Rating Equivalent: TV-PG for light romance and mild situational conflict.
📚 STAR RATING
• Book: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5) – Fun, heartfelt, and clean with fantastic banter. Docking one star because at times the focus leaned more on physical attraction than building the romantic connection.
• Audiobook Narration: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) – Corinne Davies and Antony Davis’s dual narration was excellent, with Antony’s Aussie accent stealing the show.
Cue the ultimate prank war, escalating from coffee sabotage to dye-job disasters—all while trying (and failing) to ignore those pesky sparks flying beneath the insults.
In 𝙏𝙚𝙧𝙢𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙐𝙣-𝙀𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩, Brittany Larsen delivers a rom-com packed with laugh-out-loud banter, swoony slow-burn tension, and plenty of heart—a perfect blend of sunshine, snark, and growth.
WHAT I LOVED
• 😂 The Pranks – harmless but wildly creative (tiny towels, swapped toiletries… pure gold).
• 💬 The Banter – sharp and hilarious, keeping the tension high.
• 🌴 Beach Vibes – salty air, ocean breezes, and ultimate summer escapism.
• ❤️ Character Growth – both Archie and Piper face past hurts while forging their futures.
• 👥 Cameos – fun appearances from Britta and the Beach Boy characters.
TOP MOMENTS TO LOOK FOR (no spoilers!)
• 🤯 The prank that backfires in the most epic way.
• 🍳 A cozy kitchen scene that’s equal parts swoony and funny.
• ⛓️ Archie’s paper chain rule—it’s tender and symbolic.
• 💋 That first kiss. Worth the wait. 😍
• 🌙 A late-night heart-to-heart that changes everything.
FINAL THOUGHTS 💭
This book feels like summer in paperback form—bright, breezy, and endlessly fun. Brittany Larsen perfectly balances humor and heart, giving us a rom-com where pranks lead to laughter, laughter leads to feelings, and feelings lead to swoony, clean romance.
While I adored the humor and pacing, there were a few moments I wished for slightly deeper exploration of certain conflicts—that’s what kept this one at four stars instead of five for me. Still, it’s a charming, highly enjoyable read and a perfect pick for fans of slow-burn enemies-to-lovers stories.
⸻
⚠️ CONTENT WARNINGS
• Language: No profanity or crude language
• Sexual Content: Closed-door. Kissing only. Some lustful thoughts but not explicit.
• Violence: Very light—non-graphic, prank-style mischief only.
• Triggers: Mentions of messy divorce, family tension.
• TV/Movie Rating Equivalent: TV-PG for light romance and mild situational conflict.
📚 STAR RATING
• Book: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5) – Fun, heartfelt, and clean with fantastic banter. Docking one star because at times the focus leaned more on physical attraction than building the romantic connection.
• Audiobook Narration: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5) – Corinne Davies and Antony Davis’s dual narration was excellent, with Antony’s Aussie accent stealing the show.
July 20, 2025
I received an ARC copy from the author and though I
wasn’t required to post a review, I had to offer my honest, voluntary impression upon reading it.
I throughly enjoyed this book and wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend it to one and all! It’s a great story of how a blended family dynamic worked for a while with some members but one in particular was adamantly opposed to it! Years later after they had gone their separate ways, Piper and Archie meet up again when their parents are in the middle of their divorce proceedings and Piper’s mother is given the beach house as the settlement- only problem is when Piper arrives from New York to move in Archie is still there!
Initially the old feelings return in full force and they play pranks on each other to try and get the other to leave but then they each find out truths about the other they never knew and their perspective changes. Then Piper gets devastating news where she is working and Archie’s friends rally around her and give her the strength to make a life altering decision!
I really enjoyed this book and the “sibling” rivalry between Archie and Piper and how it changed when they both started to really notice each other and how the years between had changed them.
Readers can easily relate to their friction whether it be blood siblings or siblings through a second marriage. Some feelings can be changed as this book shows but others can’t as those who have lived through the experience can also testify to.
From Archie’s point of view he finds his later dislike was based solely on false information that he believed from a person he loved and trusted. It took Piper to finally set the record straight when they finally put aside the pranks and had a heart to heart talk.
I think all readers will enjoy this one and that’s why I heartily recommend it as one you’ll love, relate to and be glad you read!
wasn’t required to post a review, I had to offer my honest, voluntary impression upon reading it.
I throughly enjoyed this book and wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend it to one and all! It’s a great story of how a blended family dynamic worked for a while with some members but one in particular was adamantly opposed to it! Years later after they had gone their separate ways, Piper and Archie meet up again when their parents are in the middle of their divorce proceedings and Piper’s mother is given the beach house as the settlement- only problem is when Piper arrives from New York to move in Archie is still there!
Initially the old feelings return in full force and they play pranks on each other to try and get the other to leave but then they each find out truths about the other they never knew and their perspective changes. Then Piper gets devastating news where she is working and Archie’s friends rally around her and give her the strength to make a life altering decision!
I really enjoyed this book and the “sibling” rivalry between Archie and Piper and how it changed when they both started to really notice each other and how the years between had changed them.
Readers can easily relate to their friction whether it be blood siblings or siblings through a second marriage. Some feelings can be changed as this book shows but others can’t as those who have lived through the experience can also testify to.
From Archie’s point of view he finds his later dislike was based solely on false information that he believed from a person he loved and trusted. It took Piper to finally set the record straight when they finally put aside the pranks and had a heart to heart talk.
I think all readers will enjoy this one and that’s why I heartily recommend it as one you’ll love, relate to and be glad you read!
August 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Archie Forthsye & Piper Quinn
- Dual POV
- Prank wars
- Fashion designer FMC
- Surfer MMC
- Forced proximity
- Sllllooow burn
✨ some of my favorite things:
- Archie’s growth and ah-ha moments
- Piper’s perspective shift
- The pranks. Archie’s poor hair
- Them cooking together 🤭
- Protective Archie
- Their month long paper chain & Archie’s rule
- Leopard print undies
- Tiny towels 😂
- Frankie & Archie’s relationship
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Book 2 of the Love In LA Series - this is a light-hearted romcom with lots of teasing and rivalry. However, there is a big theme of compassion / seeing others perspectives. I enjoyed the depth of character and the character development that happened throughout the book from both MCs.
Archie and Piper are technically step-siblings, even though they were largely removed from each other’s lives, and by the end of the book their parents are divorced. This creates an odd dynamic and plot device. Personally I didn’t really like this aspect of the story but it did deepen the opportunity for character development and understanding.
Also the majority of the book encompasses a 2 week time span besides a few chapters at the end of the book and the epilogue. It seemed everything happened quickly, but in the end I thought their story was very cute.
I really enjoyed seeing Britta and Dex again. As well as the other side characters who we are getting more information for.
This is a clean closed door romcom with one curse, some innuendo, and some bare buttcheeks.
**Thank you so much to Brittany for letting me read this ARC via NetGalley. I received a complimentary copy. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
Archie Forthsye & Piper Quinn
- Dual POV
- Prank wars
- Fashion designer FMC
- Surfer MMC
- Forced proximity
- Sllllooow burn
✨ some of my favorite things:
- Archie’s growth and ah-ha moments
- Piper’s perspective shift
- The pranks. Archie’s poor hair
- Them cooking together 🤭
- Protective Archie
- Their month long paper chain & Archie’s rule
- Leopard print undies
- Tiny towels 😂
- Frankie & Archie’s relationship
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Book 2 of the Love In LA Series - this is a light-hearted romcom with lots of teasing and rivalry. However, there is a big theme of compassion / seeing others perspectives. I enjoyed the depth of character and the character development that happened throughout the book from both MCs.
Archie and Piper are technically step-siblings, even though they were largely removed from each other’s lives, and by the end of the book their parents are divorced. This creates an odd dynamic and plot device. Personally I didn’t really like this aspect of the story but it did deepen the opportunity for character development and understanding.
Also the majority of the book encompasses a 2 week time span besides a few chapters at the end of the book and the epilogue. It seemed everything happened quickly, but in the end I thought their story was very cute.
I really enjoyed seeing Britta and Dex again. As well as the other side characters who we are getting more information for.
This is a clean closed door romcom with one curse, some innuendo, and some bare buttcheeks.
**Thank you so much to Brittany for letting me read this ARC via NetGalley. I received a complimentary copy. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
August 28, 2025
The Brief: Piper heads to the beach house her mom assures is available while she works for a prestigious fashion designer. She finds her ex step brother living there and Archie’s got to go.
The Debrief: Ok. This is kind of like an algebra problem with all the exes to the second power. Sort of a twisty Clueless, but with high stakes pranks. I’m not going to lie. They were pretty epic. Puts the whole plastic wrap on the toilets at girls
camp to shame. It’s a story about making your own path and choosing who you take along for the journey.
The audio. Can I just say that an accent sped up is twice as dreamy as 1.0? Archie’s growth was sweet and sometimes hilarious and I was cheering him on to take the risk. He also had the patience of a sloth. Loved the dual POV narrators and they brought exactly the right vibes. And hello kiss! Worth the wait.
The Rhyme: Piper designs clothes that repurpose fabrics, but the fabric of her life is unraveling. Can Archie build something all his own even when the waves become more challenging?
It did my heart good to see characters from the first book in this series, but can be read alone. Complimentary audio copy. My thoughts. Flirty and kissing only.
The Debrief: Ok. This is kind of like an algebra problem with all the exes to the second power. Sort of a twisty Clueless, but with high stakes pranks. I’m not going to lie. They were pretty epic. Puts the whole plastic wrap on the toilets at girls
camp to shame. It’s a story about making your own path and choosing who you take along for the journey.
The audio. Can I just say that an accent sped up is twice as dreamy as 1.0? Archie’s growth was sweet and sometimes hilarious and I was cheering him on to take the risk. He also had the patience of a sloth. Loved the dual POV narrators and they brought exactly the right vibes. And hello kiss! Worth the wait.
The Rhyme: Piper designs clothes that repurpose fabrics, but the fabric of her life is unraveling. Can Archie build something all his own even when the waves become more challenging?
It did my heart good to see characters from the first book in this series, but can be read alone. Complimentary audio copy. My thoughts. Flirty and kissing only.
September 22, 2025
3.25
This book was such an easy and fun read! I loved how quickly I was pulled into the story—it never felt heavy, just perfectly entertaining from start to finish. The dynamic between the two main characters, who happen to be step-siblings, was one of my favorite aspects. Their banter felt so natural and witty that it kept me smiling the whole way through. I also enjoyed watching their relationship shift and deepen as the story progressed, especially as they navigated their complicated feelings while working together to create their own fashion brand. That whole creative journey gave the story a fresh angle and made it stand out from other romances I’ve read.
The ending ended up being my favorite part—it was satisfying, heartfelt, and wrapped everything up in a way that made me want to immediately recommend the book to a friend. I also listened to part of it on Audible, and the narration was fantastic. The voice actors brought the characters to life and really enhanced the humor and emotional beats of the story.
This book was such an easy and fun read! I loved how quickly I was pulled into the story—it never felt heavy, just perfectly entertaining from start to finish. The dynamic between the two main characters, who happen to be step-siblings, was one of my favorite aspects. Their banter felt so natural and witty that it kept me smiling the whole way through. I also enjoyed watching their relationship shift and deepen as the story progressed, especially as they navigated their complicated feelings while working together to create their own fashion brand. That whole creative journey gave the story a fresh angle and made it stand out from other romances I’ve read.
The ending ended up being my favorite part—it was satisfying, heartfelt, and wrapped everything up in a way that made me want to immediately recommend the book to a friend. I also listened to part of it on Audible, and the narration was fantastic. The voice actors brought the characters to life and really enhanced the humor and emotional beats of the story.
July 22, 2025
I love the vibe of the book: when everything you thought you knew about someone, was wrong. Archie and Piper are soon to be ex-step siblings once their parents divorce is finalized. This leads to living temporarily in the same house and a hilarious prank war.
Favorite parts
-the first time Piper sees Archie again. Bicep kiss.
-that prank war! Piper was creative!
-Archie’s generosity to his friends and to Piper, especially when he didn’t have to be.
-the tension between them once they realized they both had feelings.
-Archie standing up to his dad.
Favorite quotes:
“I’m surprised you remember the stuff I was into. I thought the only thing you noticed about me was that I annoyed you.”
Archie is loyal to the people he cares about. That’s his best quality.
I walk back into the kitchen. Piper is at the stove cracking eggs into a pan. She has one foot pulled up to her other thigh, as if she’s at yoga doing tree pose instead of standing in my kitchen making brekkie. And it’s so adorable I have the sudden urge to stand behind her with my arms wrapped around her waist, resting my chin on her shoulder. I want to make this vision a reality so badly that I can’t imagine ever being happy until I do.
No one can hate each other this much without circling all the way back around to falling in love.
Favorite parts
-the first time Piper sees Archie again. Bicep kiss.
-that prank war! Piper was creative!
-Archie’s generosity to his friends and to Piper, especially when he didn’t have to be.
-the tension between them once they realized they both had feelings.
-Archie standing up to his dad.
Favorite quotes:
“I’m surprised you remember the stuff I was into. I thought the only thing you noticed about me was that I annoyed you.”
Archie is loyal to the people he cares about. That’s his best quality.
I walk back into the kitchen. Piper is at the stove cracking eggs into a pan. She has one foot pulled up to her other thigh, as if she’s at yoga doing tree pose instead of standing in my kitchen making brekkie. And it’s so adorable I have the sudden urge to stand behind her with my arms wrapped around her waist, resting my chin on her shoulder. I want to make this vision a reality so badly that I can’t imagine ever being happy until I do.
No one can hate each other this much without circling all the way back around to falling in love.
July 18, 2025
“When the words leave my mouth, something else goes with it: the weight of wanting Dad’s approval. The weight of wanting his love. I’ve been carrying it so long I’d forgotten how heavy it is.” Yayyy, Archie 👏🏻
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 2 in the Love in LA series. It is a standalone but in my opinion you’ll want book one to know more of what makes Archie such a great guy!
This is Piper & Archie’s story. I can’t wait for Frankie to get her own book! Piper moves to LA for her internship and has planned to stay at the beach house her mother is receiving from a divorce settlement. Surprise, her stepbrother is not only residing in it but owns it! They’ve never got along as children and pranks abound now as they’re forced to live together. Will something bloom from the battles? Pick up your copy to find out! Side note…I love how Brittany ties in current issues in our world within her novels. This one touches on undocumented workers which could be a trigger for some.
I received a complimentary copy by the author. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 2 in the Love in LA series. It is a standalone but in my opinion you’ll want book one to know more of what makes Archie such a great guy!
This is Piper & Archie’s story. I can’t wait for Frankie to get her own book! Piper moves to LA for her internship and has planned to stay at the beach house her mother is receiving from a divorce settlement. Surprise, her stepbrother is not only residing in it but owns it! They’ve never got along as children and pranks abound now as they’re forced to live together. Will something bloom from the battles? Pick up your copy to find out! Side note…I love how Brittany ties in current issues in our world within her novels. This one touches on undocumented workers which could be a trigger for some.
I received a complimentary copy by the author. Thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 5, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the audiobook / ALC.
This was a cute, “cheeky,” romance read! I say cheeky bc of the Australian accent from the MMC 🤌🏼 5 stars alone just for him hehehe
It was a fun time! Annoying Step sister who is now older and *shock* a lot hotter than what the step brother remembered.
Their parents are now getting divorced, but they find themselves stuck at the same beach house their parents are fighting over ….
Step brother and his family are WEALTHYYYYY so there’s disconnect from the FMC & her annoyance with him in that aspect…
As they’re both in the beach house they both go through trials of life- what they want to do for their career, values, and their future(s?)
I would recommend this audiobook to others!
This was a cute, “cheeky,” romance read! I say cheeky bc of the Australian accent from the MMC 🤌🏼 5 stars alone just for him hehehe
It was a fun time! Annoying Step sister who is now older and *shock* a lot hotter than what the step brother remembered.
Their parents are now getting divorced, but they find themselves stuck at the same beach house their parents are fighting over ….
Step brother and his family are WEALTHYYYYY so there’s disconnect from the FMC & her annoyance with him in that aspect…
As they’re both in the beach house they both go through trials of life- what they want to do for their career, values, and their future(s?)
I would recommend this audiobook to others!
September 7, 2025
Audiobook Review⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the author @BrittanyLarsen.Books, @victoryeditingngc and @NetGalley for the #gifted audiobook.
Archie + Piper = ex-step-siblings turned housemates with zero chill. This romcom had me laughing out loud with the prank wars, swooning over Archie’s surfer vibes, and rooting for Piper’s fierce fashion-designer energy. The enemies-to-lovers tension was chef’s kiss—and the audiobook narration was fantastic! Corinne Davies and Antony Davis really brought the story to life, especially Archie’s accent… so swoon-worthy and completely immersive.
This is book 2 in the Love in LA series, but it can be read as a standalone. (Though, if you haven’t read Britta and The Beach Boy yet—you should, because it’s amazing too!)
If you love forced proximity, banter, and a romcom with plenty of heart, this one’s for you. 💕
Thank you to the author @BrittanyLarsen.Books, @victoryeditingngc and @NetGalley for the #gifted audiobook.
Archie + Piper = ex-step-siblings turned housemates with zero chill. This romcom had me laughing out loud with the prank wars, swooning over Archie’s surfer vibes, and rooting for Piper’s fierce fashion-designer energy. The enemies-to-lovers tension was chef’s kiss—and the audiobook narration was fantastic! Corinne Davies and Antony Davis really brought the story to life, especially Archie’s accent… so swoon-worthy and completely immersive.
This is book 2 in the Love in LA series, but it can be read as a standalone. (Though, if you haven’t read Britta and The Beach Boy yet—you should, because it’s amazing too!)
If you love forced proximity, banter, and a romcom with plenty of heart, this one’s for you. 💕
July 17, 2025
This book kept me up reading way too late on several nights! There are so many parts that I laughed at! I loved Piper and Archie, and I loved seeing Briita, Dex, and others from the other books in this series! While you don’t have to read the other books first to enjoy this one, I do recommend it, but you’ll enjoy it either way. I really like how Brittany touches on some hard problems in her books while still keeping this a fun beachy read. It makes the story more real. I think this is my favorite book of Brittany’s so far!
I received an advanced copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an advanced copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 5, 2025
I want to thank NetGalley and the publisher for granting me access to this ALC. The audiobook narration truly enhanced my listening experience. However, I realized that I didn’t fully review the description and associated tropes before requesting this title, which was an oversight on my part. Unfortunately, I found that the step-sibling trope didn’t resonate with me and ultimately affected my enjoyment of the story.
July 18, 2025
This is the second book in the series after Britta, but you don’t have to read the first one . I recommend reading the series because they are both good . I liked Archie’s and Pipers story . Archie and Piper have to share the house after their parents are getting a divorce his dad cheated on her mom . They disagree on who gets to stay they both stay and end up pulling pranks on each other along the way , which is so funny .
Thank you Brittany for the ARC all my opinions expressed are my own
Thank you Brittany for the ARC all my opinions expressed are my own
September 28, 2025
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley.
I really enjoyed this book! Yes it was a bit of escapism but it was just what I wanted.
I loved how the story was told from the viewpoints of the two main characters. I enjoyed the text messages and it all moved the story along nicely. The practical jokes they played on each other were fun especially the hot water!
Whilst I didn’t laugh out loud I certainly found myself smiling quite a few times.
I would recommend this book to anyone wanting a holiday read or just a contemporary love story.
I really enjoyed this book! Yes it was a bit of escapism but it was just what I wanted.
I loved how the story was told from the viewpoints of the two main characters. I enjoyed the text messages and it all moved the story along nicely. The practical jokes they played on each other were fun especially the hot water!
Whilst I didn’t laugh out loud I certainly found myself smiling quite a few times.
I would recommend this book to anyone wanting a holiday read or just a contemporary love story.
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