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Stapled Magnolias #3
Distant Shores
On the sun-warmed shores of coastal Alabama, two strangers on parallel paths find themselves in the unlikeliest of summer sanctuaries: an empty house, a shared responsibility, and a chance to reach for something more.
Ireland Sewell doesn't have time for a sunshine man with a chin dimple and kind eyes—not when she’s barely holding her life together. After uprooting everything to move her dad into a memory care facility on the Gulf Coast, she’s sleeping on borrowed couches and taking any job she can get while trying to outpace the grief she can’t quite name. Her world has lost color and shrunk to fit inside Zinnia House, which she thinks she’s fine with, until a cinnamon-roll paramedic with a superhero jawline and a purple crutch steps into her path and threatens the status quo.
On medical leave after a rescue gone wrong, Adair Jacks has an ankle that won’t heal and a heart that never quite learned how to rest. When his pops moves into Zinnia House, he follows, intent on being the glue his family needs. The last thing he expects is to end up rooming with an intense dance teacher with indigo blue eyes who makes him feel something he hasn’t felt in a long time: wanted.
Thrown together in a last-ditch roommate arrangement, Ireland and Adair navigate new dynamics, caregiving, and slow, stolen moments that build a tender connection neither of them knew how badly they needed.
But with fragile family ties and a ticking clock on their summer living situation, their growing bond is tested when the real world comes calling.
Distant Shores is a slow-burn contemporary romance featuring a black-cat-energy dance teacher, a green-flag paramedic with a crochet habit, and all the charm of found family, forced proximity, and beachside healing. Can two people who are used to living for everyone else finally choose themselves… and each other?
Ireland Sewell doesn't have time for a sunshine man with a chin dimple and kind eyes—not when she’s barely holding her life together. After uprooting everything to move her dad into a memory care facility on the Gulf Coast, she’s sleeping on borrowed couches and taking any job she can get while trying to outpace the grief she can’t quite name. Her world has lost color and shrunk to fit inside Zinnia House, which she thinks she’s fine with, until a cinnamon-roll paramedic with a superhero jawline and a purple crutch steps into her path and threatens the status quo.
On medical leave after a rescue gone wrong, Adair Jacks has an ankle that won’t heal and a heart that never quite learned how to rest. When his pops moves into Zinnia House, he follows, intent on being the glue his family needs. The last thing he expects is to end up rooming with an intense dance teacher with indigo blue eyes who makes him feel something he hasn’t felt in a long time: wanted.
Thrown together in a last-ditch roommate arrangement, Ireland and Adair navigate new dynamics, caregiving, and slow, stolen moments that build a tender connection neither of them knew how badly they needed.
But with fragile family ties and a ticking clock on their summer living situation, their growing bond is tested when the real world comes calling.
Distant Shores is a slow-burn contemporary romance featuring a black-cat-energy dance teacher, a green-flag paramedic with a crochet habit, and all the charm of found family, forced proximity, and beachside healing. Can two people who are used to living for everyone else finally choose themselves… and each other?
538 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 19, 2025
69 people are currently reading
302 people want to read
About the author
Lane O'Neil
3 books46 followersBorn, raised, and forever resident of Atlanta-ish, Georgia, Lane O’Neil loves crashing waves, characters who feel like friends, and soft blankets.
Lane rekindled her love of reading in 2021 after having her son and learning what "nap trapped" meant. That renewed spark eventually led to her to linking up with indie authors as an alpha and beta reader, which then spiraled into a crazy idea—one that had never once crossed her mind before….
What if she tried to write something?
Once her mortifying flashback to completing the writing portion of her SATs in 2009 was done, and she took a shower to wash off the nervous sweats, she opened a document and began writing.
To stay up to date with Lane, you can visit her website or follow her (@authorlaneoneil) on social media.
Lane rekindled her love of reading in 2021 after having her son and learning what "nap trapped" meant. That renewed spark eventually led to her to linking up with indie authors as an alpha and beta reader, which then spiraled into a crazy idea—one that had never once crossed her mind before….
What if she tried to write something?
Once her mortifying flashback to completing the writing portion of her SATs in 2009 was done, and she took a shower to wash off the nervous sweats, she opened a document and began writing.
To stay up to date with Lane, you can visit her website or follow her (@authorlaneoneil) on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
September 15, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars
“Even if my mind went dark and my life felt like nothing but an empty room, I would still want to dance in it with you."
Thank you to the author for providing me with this ARC for my honest review!
I absolutely loved this book, was NOT expecting to tear up multiple times!! It was such a moving story with so many emotions of how the two MCs fall in love. I’ve never read one that takes place in a seniors only/assisted living place so seeing it from the workers and family members eyes was just bittersweet. And I really felt everything they did while reading. There were so many heart warming moments through out and I just can’t say enough good things about it!
✨Tropes✨
- Black cat FMC
- Golden retriever MMC
- Meet cute
- Forced proximity
- Roommates
- Found family
- Dancer FMC
- Paramedic MMC
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️.5
"We're here and we're capable. That's enough."
“Even if my mind went dark and my life felt like nothing but an empty room, I would still want to dance in it with you."
Thank you to the author for providing me with this ARC for my honest review!
I absolutely loved this book, was NOT expecting to tear up multiple times!! It was such a moving story with so many emotions of how the two MCs fall in love. I’ve never read one that takes place in a seniors only/assisted living place so seeing it from the workers and family members eyes was just bittersweet. And I really felt everything they did while reading. There were so many heart warming moments through out and I just can’t say enough good things about it!
✨Tropes✨
- Black cat FMC
- Golden retriever MMC
- Meet cute
- Forced proximity
- Roommates
- Found family
- Dancer FMC
- Paramedic MMC
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️.5
"We're here and we're capable. That's enough."
September 19, 2025
ARC REVIEW
*I am leaving this review voluntarily
First, I would like to say how honored I am to have received an advance copy of this novel from the author. Sharing writing is such a vulnerable process for authors, and I am honored to have been included.
This was such a well-written love story! This novel takes place in a senior/memory care facility, and themes include aging, loss, memory loss, grief, found family, slow burn romance, parental figures, and forced proximity. Some of these themes are heavy and can hit close to home, so please be sure to take care of your mental health as you read.
Lane O’Neil has such a gift for writing characters with dynamic personalities and deep backgrounds. The side characters in this novel make you want to know more, and thank goodness some of them already have their own novels!
This black cat female and golden retriever male romance is sure to tug the heartstrings in all the right ways.
I can’t say enough good things about it!
My rating: 4.5 ⭐️
*I am leaving this review voluntarily
First, I would like to say how honored I am to have received an advance copy of this novel from the author. Sharing writing is such a vulnerable process for authors, and I am honored to have been included.
This was such a well-written love story! This novel takes place in a senior/memory care facility, and themes include aging, loss, memory loss, grief, found family, slow burn romance, parental figures, and forced proximity. Some of these themes are heavy and can hit close to home, so please be sure to take care of your mental health as you read.
Lane O’Neil has such a gift for writing characters with dynamic personalities and deep backgrounds. The side characters in this novel make you want to know more, and thank goodness some of them already have their own novels!
This black cat female and golden retriever male romance is sure to tug the heartstrings in all the right ways.
I can’t say enough good things about it!
My rating: 4.5 ⭐️
August 24, 2025
This book is a MUST READ (but it will require tissues!)! Lane O’Neil has created another success in her Stapled Magnolias universe. To be honest, I didn’t think I was going to like this book as much as the first two (Lady Luck and Missed Sunrise) because these were essentially two all new characters. But I shouldn’t have worried, because Lane’s talent for writing and storytelling made this book just as good as the others.
Lane has a true gift for writing. She gives each and every character the most dynamic personalities that make you love them immediately. You get so invested in their happiness and their love stories that you get that true book hangover when everything is over. She also has a true gift for representation of some difficult topics within her stories. Distant Shores hit me a little harder than her other stories since I have had first hand experience with memory disease in my family and how difficult it can be. It was hard to read some of the scenes, but it also made me feel not so alone at the same time. Lane’s deft hand at writing about these topics makes you feel seen in a way that not all books do.
The love story of this book is also something to note, as again, she knocked it out of the park. This is not her only cinnamon roll/golden retriever and black cat couple, but I feel like Ireland and Adair were more subtle and nuanced and I appreciated it in a different way than the other wonderful couples in her books. I love a black cat female character, but what was so wonderful about how she wrote Ireland, is that she wasn’t annoying in her black catness. I find a lot of black cat females are written almost too angsty and to the point where it feels fake and made up. But Ireland was written to be more open and almost softer in a way that I found endearing and much more believable. The way the main characters got together quietly and built their relationship on trust and support is just so wholesome and wonderful, and quite frankly, underrated in romance novels.
As with her other books, Lane does a beautiful job of writing her side characters as well. They are each so unique and wonderful in their own ways with personalities and quirks that make you smile. And naturally, by the end of this book you’re going to be begging for certain side characters to get their love story in their own book next. Trust me.
Everything about Lane’s writing is filled with a sense of realness. Real people, real struggles, real relationships, and real feelings/experiences that run the gamut of elation and love to deep loss and despair. If you have spoken to or have met Lane herself, she is also a very real person, and I think that her personality is so apparent in the way she writes. I think that’s why I love it so much. She makes herself approachable in real life and through her storytelling.
Distant Shores definitely needs to be next on your reading list, so do yourself a favor and either pre-order it, or set an alert for yourself to get your hands on a copy when it comes out!
Lane has a true gift for writing. She gives each and every character the most dynamic personalities that make you love them immediately. You get so invested in their happiness and their love stories that you get that true book hangover when everything is over. She also has a true gift for representation of some difficult topics within her stories. Distant Shores hit me a little harder than her other stories since I have had first hand experience with memory disease in my family and how difficult it can be. It was hard to read some of the scenes, but it also made me feel not so alone at the same time. Lane’s deft hand at writing about these topics makes you feel seen in a way that not all books do.
The love story of this book is also something to note, as again, she knocked it out of the park. This is not her only cinnamon roll/golden retriever and black cat couple, but I feel like Ireland and Adair were more subtle and nuanced and I appreciated it in a different way than the other wonderful couples in her books. I love a black cat female character, but what was so wonderful about how she wrote Ireland, is that she wasn’t annoying in her black catness. I find a lot of black cat females are written almost too angsty and to the point where it feels fake and made up. But Ireland was written to be more open and almost softer in a way that I found endearing and much more believable. The way the main characters got together quietly and built their relationship on trust and support is just so wholesome and wonderful, and quite frankly, underrated in romance novels.
As with her other books, Lane does a beautiful job of writing her side characters as well. They are each so unique and wonderful in their own ways with personalities and quirks that make you smile. And naturally, by the end of this book you’re going to be begging for certain side characters to get their love story in their own book next. Trust me.
Everything about Lane’s writing is filled with a sense of realness. Real people, real struggles, real relationships, and real feelings/experiences that run the gamut of elation and love to deep loss and despair. If you have spoken to or have met Lane herself, she is also a very real person, and I think that her personality is so apparent in the way she writes. I think that’s why I love it so much. She makes herself approachable in real life and through her storytelling.
Distant Shores definitely needs to be next on your reading list, so do yourself a favor and either pre-order it, or set an alert for yourself to get your hands on a copy when it comes out!
September 19, 2025
I am sitting here crying while I write this review. Some of the things in this book hits hard because Alzheimer's and dementia runs in my family on both sides so reading this is bittersweet.
This author writes books so beautifully and poetic. I just start reading and am in awe. I feel like I am right there in this story. I have been waiting for Adair's and Ireland's story and it is even better than I thought it would be.
The feeling of loss when the person is right there in front of you is heartbreaking but also finding someone that understands what you are going through is absolutely beautiful.
Adair and Ireland both are going through something with a loved one. They find themselves as roommates and along the way get to know each other. Adair is such a wonderful MMC that doesn't realize what everyone sees when they look at him. He also has a big heart and definitely a cinnamon-roll.
Ireland is what you would call a black cat FMC who hides her heart from everyone because doesn't want anymore hurt.
I won't give anything away but please read this book. The side characters are so wonderful each and every one. You just read these books and want one for each character. I loved seeing the characters from past books too. Forever a fan of this author.
This author writes books so beautifully and poetic. I just start reading and am in awe. I feel like I am right there in this story. I have been waiting for Adair's and Ireland's story and it is even better than I thought it would be.
The feeling of loss when the person is right there in front of you is heartbreaking but also finding someone that understands what you are going through is absolutely beautiful.
Adair and Ireland both are going through something with a loved one. They find themselves as roommates and along the way get to know each other. Adair is such a wonderful MMC that doesn't realize what everyone sees when they look at him. He also has a big heart and definitely a cinnamon-roll.
Ireland is what you would call a black cat FMC who hides her heart from everyone because doesn't want anymore hurt.
I won't give anything away but please read this book. The side characters are so wonderful each and every one. You just read these books and want one for each character. I loved seeing the characters from past books too. Forever a fan of this author.
September 18, 2025
✨Book Review✨
Title: Distant Shores
Author: @Lane
Genre:Contemporary Romance
Pages: 246
Format 📖
5⭐️
Releases September 19, 2025
If it involves caretaking, forced proximity, and slow-burn beachside emotion count me in🥴
The wounded-paramedic/caregiving-dance-teacher setup in Distant Shores lands squarely in the pocket of what I’ve been craving.
The book’s Alzheimer’s subplot and the heroine’s borrowed couch life mirror the exact blend of heavy-real-life-meets-tender-romance that lit up Hear My Heart and Pressure, while the beach-house found-family vibe echoes the healing summers I loved in Rifts and Refrains.
If you read and liked…
✨To Marry a Madden (Series)
✨The Right Move
✨Hear My Heart
✨Pressure
✨Can’t Get Enough
✨Rifts and Refrains
…You’ll definitely love this one ❤️
#UrbanFiction #historicalfiction #Sportsromance #Fantasy#suspense #romance #Thriller #Fantasy #SciFi #Dystopian #Romantasy #fiction #indie #indieread #readthistoday #readwithKC #ebook #boox #kindle #MoodReader #BOTM #bookreviewer #BookClub #ImmersionReading
Title: Distant Shores
Author: @Lane
Genre:Contemporary Romance
Pages: 246
Format 📖
5⭐️
Releases September 19, 2025
If it involves caretaking, forced proximity, and slow-burn beachside emotion count me in🥴
The wounded-paramedic/caregiving-dance-teacher setup in Distant Shores lands squarely in the pocket of what I’ve been craving.
The book’s Alzheimer’s subplot and the heroine’s borrowed couch life mirror the exact blend of heavy-real-life-meets-tender-romance that lit up Hear My Heart and Pressure, while the beach-house found-family vibe echoes the healing summers I loved in Rifts and Refrains.
If you read and liked…
✨To Marry a Madden (Series)
✨The Right Move
✨Hear My Heart
✨Pressure
✨Can’t Get Enough
✨Rifts and Refrains
…You’ll definitely love this one ❤️
#UrbanFiction #historicalfiction #Sportsromance #Fantasy#suspense #romance #Thriller #Fantasy #SciFi #Dystopian #Romantasy #fiction #indie #indieread #readthistoday #readwithKC #ebook #boox #kindle #MoodReader #BOTM #bookreviewer #BookClub #ImmersionReading
September 17, 2025
Distant Shores by Lane O’Neil dives into real life topics that hit home and makes them feel both raw and relatable. The emotions land, the struggles feel authentic, and Adair… let’s just say he’s a total smoke-show and hot as hell. A story that blends heart, heat, and honesty in all the right ways.
I’ll definitely recommend this book to anyone & everyone who will listen. I will be coming back to this in a few months just to relive it again.
Thank you Lane for the physical ARC. I appreciate the opportunity.
I’ll definitely recommend this book to anyone & everyone who will listen. I will be coming back to this in a few months just to relive it again.
Thank you Lane for the physical ARC. I appreciate the opportunity.
August 29, 2025
I was fortunate to receive an ARC of Distant Shores from the author. The book was filled with heartwarming and heart wrenching moments along with hilarious and cute moments. The topic did hit close to home. 🫶
September 26, 2025
Lane O’Neil does it again. I didn’t think she could top Lady Luck or Missed Sunrise, but she somehow did. Distant Shores is a 5 star read, no contest. 100 stars. ALL the stars.
Distant Shores is a slow-burn romance with all the comfort and warm fuzzies. It’s like curling up in front of a fire with a warm beverage, a soft blanket, and a cuddly kitty. At the same time, it’s laugh-out-loud funny. Seriously, Adair was cracking me up. (Knee pervert, anyone? lol)
What I love most about Lane’s stories though is that yes, they are “romance,” but they are also stories of complex characters with real emotions and real struggles, working through things together. She opens your heart to these characters in such an authentic and genuine way.
I was rooting for Ireland (FMC) and Adair (MMC) the whole time - both as individuals and as a couple. My heart broke with and for them, but it also healed right along side them. Their story is so feet-kicking sweet and wholesome.
Did I mention there’s a playlist that goes along with the book? I 100% recommend reading and listening together. I’m not usually one to listen to music while I read, but listening to the songs as they appeared in the book (music plays a big role in the story) was an unforgettable experience. I’ve never felt more immersed in the moments of a book before.
And the side characters! I was going to call out my faves, but I quickly realized I was naming every single character in the book. Take my word for it, they are a cast that you’ll love and want to be a part of yourself. It was especially fun getting to see some of the characters from the previous two books (don’t worry - if you haven’t read Lady Luck or Missed Sunrise, you’ll be just fine. But I recommend reading those too because WHY NOT?!?)
My only complaint is that the book ended. I finished last night, but I could pick it right back up today and start it again.
Thank you, Lane, for writing such a real and heartwarming story. 10/10 recommend.
Distant Shores is a slow-burn romance with all the comfort and warm fuzzies. It’s like curling up in front of a fire with a warm beverage, a soft blanket, and a cuddly kitty. At the same time, it’s laugh-out-loud funny. Seriously, Adair was cracking me up. (Knee pervert, anyone? lol)
What I love most about Lane’s stories though is that yes, they are “romance,” but they are also stories of complex characters with real emotions and real struggles, working through things together. She opens your heart to these characters in such an authentic and genuine way.
I was rooting for Ireland (FMC) and Adair (MMC) the whole time - both as individuals and as a couple. My heart broke with and for them, but it also healed right along side them. Their story is so feet-kicking sweet and wholesome.
Did I mention there’s a playlist that goes along with the book? I 100% recommend reading and listening together. I’m not usually one to listen to music while I read, but listening to the songs as they appeared in the book (music plays a big role in the story) was an unforgettable experience. I’ve never felt more immersed in the moments of a book before.
And the side characters! I was going to call out my faves, but I quickly realized I was naming every single character in the book. Take my word for it, they are a cast that you’ll love and want to be a part of yourself. It was especially fun getting to see some of the characters from the previous two books (don’t worry - if you haven’t read Lady Luck or Missed Sunrise, you’ll be just fine. But I recommend reading those too because WHY NOT?!?)
My only complaint is that the book ended. I finished last night, but I could pick it right back up today and start it again.
Thank you, Lane, for writing such a real and heartwarming story. 10/10 recommend.
September 23, 2025
“Only for the summer.”
I fall more and more in love with this series each book I read. This could be read as a standalone but to understand more of Gil who has a big impact on Ireland, I do recommend reading the first two. I loved the cameo’s from Liem because he is everyone’s friend and you just feel the love from him. Delly absolutely gives Liem vibes elevated and I loved her I hope for her story and hopefully get that crush situation figured out. Adair and Ireland’s story is such an amazing ride, and the backdrop of the assisted living added such a great layer of comedy. Ireland works for the assisted living facility to stay close to her dad, Adair is visiting his pops for the summer with his sister Delly. Delly and Adair have the funnest sibling banter as well as when you add in Cole you cannot help but smile. When Adair comes down to visit his Pops he literally falls for Ireland when they accidentally collide. Months later when they return for the summer his goal is to find the mystery girl. Luckily for him she is closer than she seems and fate is going to bring them together in more ways than one. Loved this so much with the returning characters and new ones. Ireland works for the assisted living facility to stay close to her dad, Adair is visiting his pops for the summer with his sister Delly. Delly and Adair have the funnest sibling banter as well as when you add in Cole you cannot help but smile. When Adair comes down to visit his Pops he literally falls for Ireland when they accidentally collide. Months later when they return for the summer his goal is to find the mystery girl. Luckily for him she is closer than she seems and fate is going to bring them together in more ways than one. Loved this so much with the returning characters and new ones.
���Song Vibe- Love After Hurt by Annatoria, One House & Trevor Jackson “When my world's crashing down And I'm lost and I'm found And I just can't help but cry You've shown me You've shown me love after hurt You've shown me You've shown me my heart still works”🎼
~~What to Expect~~
🩼Small Town
🩼Roommates
🩼Friends to Lovers
🩼Force Proximity
🩼Found Family
🩼Black Cat Dancer X Golden Retriever Paramedic
🩼Alzheimer Rep
🩼Parkinson Rep
🩼No 3rd Act Break Up
🩼Workplace-ish
🩼hurt/comfort
~~Quotes~~
💜Notes and no glasses. Maybe that’s how I would survive her from now on.
💜I see you Indigo and I… I think you see me too.
💜Another thing I hadn’t expected about falling in love? How many endings came with the beginnings.
💜I look for you in every room and in every dream.
I fall more and more in love with this series each book I read. This could be read as a standalone but to understand more of Gil who has a big impact on Ireland, I do recommend reading the first two. I loved the cameo’s from Liem because he is everyone’s friend and you just feel the love from him. Delly absolutely gives Liem vibes elevated and I loved her I hope for her story and hopefully get that crush situation figured out. Adair and Ireland’s story is such an amazing ride, and the backdrop of the assisted living added such a great layer of comedy. Ireland works for the assisted living facility to stay close to her dad, Adair is visiting his pops for the summer with his sister Delly. Delly and Adair have the funnest sibling banter as well as when you add in Cole you cannot help but smile. When Adair comes down to visit his Pops he literally falls for Ireland when they accidentally collide. Months later when they return for the summer his goal is to find the mystery girl. Luckily for him she is closer than she seems and fate is going to bring them together in more ways than one. Loved this so much with the returning characters and new ones. Ireland works for the assisted living facility to stay close to her dad, Adair is visiting his pops for the summer with his sister Delly. Delly and Adair have the funnest sibling banter as well as when you add in Cole you cannot help but smile. When Adair comes down to visit his Pops he literally falls for Ireland when they accidentally collide. Months later when they return for the summer his goal is to find the mystery girl. Luckily for him she is closer than she seems and fate is going to bring them together in more ways than one. Loved this so much with the returning characters and new ones.
���Song Vibe- Love After Hurt by Annatoria, One House & Trevor Jackson “When my world's crashing down And I'm lost and I'm found And I just can't help but cry You've shown me You've shown me love after hurt You've shown me You've shown me my heart still works”🎼
~~What to Expect~~
🩼Small Town
🩼Roommates
🩼Friends to Lovers
🩼Force Proximity
🩼Found Family
🩼Black Cat Dancer X Golden Retriever Paramedic
🩼Alzheimer Rep
🩼Parkinson Rep
🩼No 3rd Act Break Up
🩼Workplace-ish
🩼hurt/comfort
~~Quotes~~
💜Notes and no glasses. Maybe that’s how I would survive her from now on.
💜I see you Indigo and I… I think you see me too.
💜Another thing I hadn’t expected about falling in love? How many endings came with the beginnings.
💜I look for you in every room and in every dream.
August 23, 2025
✨ Distant Shores by Lane O’Neil ✨
I didn’t know a knee kink was a thing, but I’m pretty sure Adair Jacks has one, and I’m here for it.
This book is tragically hilarious in all the best ways.
Ireland is a black cat FMC through and through, used to carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders. And then there’s Adair: the sunshine paramedic with Clark Kent vibes who doesn’t know he’s hot, thinks she’s out of his league, and falls first—hard. His green flag energy is off the charts. And the way he sees her frown as the most beautiful thing in the world? Dead. Me.
“She was assessing me, and Lordy, I had never tested well. I was in trouble.”
Their romance is a slow burn to blushing, a tender unraveling set against Gulf Coast sunsets and the heartbreak of watching loved ones fade. O’Neil doesn’t shy away from showing the raw ache of caregiving, loneliness, and losing someone right in front of you. But somehow, through humor, banter, and those moments of grace, this love story glows.
“Even Broken Crayons Color.”
“Grace for all, but especially for you.”
Adair’s devotion is breathtaking. He knows what Ireland needs before she asks. He calls her his Indigo Girl, and when their first kiss finally happens? LORDY, I swooned.
“Somewhere around 150, if I had to guess.”
Her gaze flicked back to mine. “What is?”
“My heart rate… You do that to me.”
It’s a story of ducks and sticky notes, scraped knees, grief, and healing. Of finding joy in the most unexpected places and realizing you don’t always have to be in charge, you can let someone care for you too.
“I hadn’t needed to tell him what I wanted, hadn’t needed to find words to express my deep desire to not be in charge all the time. To not have to make every decision.”
Distant Shores wrecked me and healed me, left me giggling through tears, and gave me one of the most beautiful happily-ever-afters I could’ve wished for.
“Together, to whatever distant shore.” 🌊💙
I didn’t know a knee kink was a thing, but I’m pretty sure Adair Jacks has one, and I’m here for it.
This book is tragically hilarious in all the best ways.
Ireland is a black cat FMC through and through, used to carrying the weight of the world on her shoulders. And then there’s Adair: the sunshine paramedic with Clark Kent vibes who doesn’t know he’s hot, thinks she’s out of his league, and falls first—hard. His green flag energy is off the charts. And the way he sees her frown as the most beautiful thing in the world? Dead. Me.
“She was assessing me, and Lordy, I had never tested well. I was in trouble.”
Their romance is a slow burn to blushing, a tender unraveling set against Gulf Coast sunsets and the heartbreak of watching loved ones fade. O’Neil doesn’t shy away from showing the raw ache of caregiving, loneliness, and losing someone right in front of you. But somehow, through humor, banter, and those moments of grace, this love story glows.
“Even Broken Crayons Color.”
“Grace for all, but especially for you.”
Adair’s devotion is breathtaking. He knows what Ireland needs before she asks. He calls her his Indigo Girl, and when their first kiss finally happens? LORDY, I swooned.
“Somewhere around 150, if I had to guess.”
Her gaze flicked back to mine. “What is?”
“My heart rate… You do that to me.”
It’s a story of ducks and sticky notes, scraped knees, grief, and healing. Of finding joy in the most unexpected places and realizing you don’t always have to be in charge, you can let someone care for you too.
“I hadn’t needed to tell him what I wanted, hadn’t needed to find words to express my deep desire to not be in charge all the time. To not have to make every decision.”
Distant Shores wrecked me and healed me, left me giggling through tears, and gave me one of the most beautiful happily-ever-afters I could’ve wished for.
“Together, to whatever distant shore.” 🌊💙
September 22, 2025
Distant Shores by Lane O’Neil is a medium-paced romance about Ireland and Adair, a dance teacher and an injured paramedic. The book is not only layered with romantic elements but also grief and the burdens and realities of caretaking for people with memory loss.
As a dance teacher and someone who’s witnessed the decline of a loved one due to Alzheimers/dementia, the storyline and situations throughout the book hit close to home. It made me reflect on my journey of being caretaker-adjacent. It made me wonder, how I could’ve handled situations differently and how differently the experience would’ve been with community like Ireland and Adair had at Live Oak.
As the book progressed, I enjoyed learning more about Ireland and Adair’s backstories. I enjoyed witnessing their character progression and found it incredibly refreshing that their love story was built on genuine connection, understanding, vulnerability, and the beauty and intimacy that comes with being known by your partner. Ireland and Adair’s love story is more driven by consideration and care than quick attraction and lust.
The spice: The book and the characters were so sweet that the spicy scenes seemed almost too spicy. It’s as if the characters flipped a switch and became different people during the spice. That being said, I liked that the spicy scenes were different than anything I’ve read. O’Neil didn’t completely write out Adair’s injury in order to deliver the spice. She used creative ways to incorporate accessibility into the bedroom which made it incredibly realistic.
Lastly two points:
1. O’Neil has a gift for flushing out the stories and unraveling the layers of the supporting characters. I fell in love with characters like Delly, Pops, and Cole. I can see many more books in the series.
2. I was incredibly satisfied with the conclusion of the book as well as the fact that there wasn’t a third act breakup. Distant Shores was an incredibly sweet romance.
As a dance teacher and someone who’s witnessed the decline of a loved one due to Alzheimers/dementia, the storyline and situations throughout the book hit close to home. It made me reflect on my journey of being caretaker-adjacent. It made me wonder, how I could’ve handled situations differently and how differently the experience would’ve been with community like Ireland and Adair had at Live Oak.
As the book progressed, I enjoyed learning more about Ireland and Adair’s backstories. I enjoyed witnessing their character progression and found it incredibly refreshing that their love story was built on genuine connection, understanding, vulnerability, and the beauty and intimacy that comes with being known by your partner. Ireland and Adair’s love story is more driven by consideration and care than quick attraction and lust.
The spice: The book and the characters were so sweet that the spicy scenes seemed almost too spicy. It’s as if the characters flipped a switch and became different people during the spice. That being said, I liked that the spicy scenes were different than anything I’ve read. O’Neil didn’t completely write out Adair’s injury in order to deliver the spice. She used creative ways to incorporate accessibility into the bedroom which made it incredibly realistic.
Lastly two points:
1. O’Neil has a gift for flushing out the stories and unraveling the layers of the supporting characters. I fell in love with characters like Delly, Pops, and Cole. I can see many more books in the series.
2. I was incredibly satisfied with the conclusion of the book as well as the fact that there wasn’t a third act breakup. Distant Shores was an incredibly sweet romance.
July 29, 2025
Distant Shores is an ode to loss, love, and finding your strength through it all.
This third installment of the Stapled Magnolias series maintains the brilliance of the first two books while also independently standing on its own with endearing characters and a coastal setting that will capture your heart.
Lane provides a unique blend that most contemporary romance novels lack in the current market: heavy hitting character development alongside relatable real world challenges, with a delicious side of toe curling spice. Her books hit home because she chooses to serve problems that readers may have experienced themselves, you can find pieces of yourself throughout and that really aids in connecting to the story in a way that I don't often find when reading this genre.
We are introduced to Ireland, a misunderstood dancer who is struggling to forgive herself while pouring her full efforts into her family and community. Then there is Adair, a paramedic with a heart of gold who is striving to do right by the man who stepped in to raise him. They quickly find themselves as roommates of convenience (sharing a Jack & Jill style bathroom, mind you) and a tender, slow burn romance ensues. If you are looking for a love that develops in the midst of life's chaos, despite life's chaos, this book is for you. Adair and Ireland equally go out on a limb for each other to find healing, bravery, and fill holes in their hearts that only love can.
I cannot offer enough praise to Lane for delivering this captivating and emotional roller coaster of a romance amongst a market of horny hockey players and basilisks. Don't get me wrong, I like those too every now and then, but if you want to experience tangible emotional connections and honest love - look no further than Stapled Magnolias. You will find comfort here.
This third installment of the Stapled Magnolias series maintains the brilliance of the first two books while also independently standing on its own with endearing characters and a coastal setting that will capture your heart.
Lane provides a unique blend that most contemporary romance novels lack in the current market: heavy hitting character development alongside relatable real world challenges, with a delicious side of toe curling spice. Her books hit home because she chooses to serve problems that readers may have experienced themselves, you can find pieces of yourself throughout and that really aids in connecting to the story in a way that I don't often find when reading this genre.
We are introduced to Ireland, a misunderstood dancer who is struggling to forgive herself while pouring her full efforts into her family and community. Then there is Adair, a paramedic with a heart of gold who is striving to do right by the man who stepped in to raise him. They quickly find themselves as roommates of convenience (sharing a Jack & Jill style bathroom, mind you) and a tender, slow burn romance ensues. If you are looking for a love that develops in the midst of life's chaos, despite life's chaos, this book is for you. Adair and Ireland equally go out on a limb for each other to find healing, bravery, and fill holes in their hearts that only love can.
I cannot offer enough praise to Lane for delivering this captivating and emotional roller coaster of a romance amongst a market of horny hockey players and basilisks. Don't get me wrong, I like those too every now and then, but if you want to experience tangible emotional connections and honest love - look no further than Stapled Magnolias. You will find comfort here.
September 7, 2025
ᴅɪꜱᴛᴀɴᴛ ꜱʜᴏʀᴇꜱ // @authorlaneoneil 🌊
ʟɪꜱᴛᴇɴ, ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴡᴀꜱ ᴍʏ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ʙʏ ʟᴀɴᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴀʏ-ɪᴛ ᴛʀᴜʟʏ ᴅɪᴅ ɴᴏᴛ ᴅɪꜱᴀᴘᴘᴏɪɴᴛ. ɪᴛ’ꜱ ᴀ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛꜰᴇʟᴛ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ꜱᴛɪᴄᴋʏ ɴᴏᴛᴇꜱ, ɢʀɪᴇꜰ, ʜᴇᴀʟɪɴɢ, ʜᴇᴀʀᴛᴀᴄʜᴇ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴅɪꜱᴄᴏᴠᴇʀɪɴɢ ʜᴀᴘᴘɪɴᴇꜱꜱ ᴡʜᴇʀᴇᴠᴇʀ ʏᴏᴜ ᴄᴀɴ ꜰɪɴᴅ ɪᴛ. ᴛᴇᴀʀꜱ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ꜱʜᴇᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ʟᴀᴜɢʜꜱ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ꜱʜᴀʀᴇᴅ... ᴍᴀɴʏ, ᴍᴀɴʏ ᴛɪᴍᴇꜱ.
“𝙁𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙨𝙖𝙙 𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖 𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙮 𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝘿𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙌𝙪𝙚𝙚𝙣,”
“𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗻𝗼𝘄, 𝗔𝗱𝗱𝘆,” 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗺𝘂𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵. “𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗮 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿. 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗲𝗲𝗺𝘀 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘆.”
ᴛʜᴇ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀꜱ ꜰᴇʟᴛ ꜱᴏ ʀᴇᴀʟ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ɪ ꜰᴏʀɢᴏᴛ ɪ ᴡᴀꜱ ᴊᴜꜱᴛ ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ. ɪᴛ’ꜱ ᴘᴀᴄᴋᴇᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴀᴜᴛʜᴇɴᴛɪᴄ ꜱᴛʀᴜɢɢʟᴇꜱ, ʀᴀᴡ ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴꜱ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟᴇx, ʟᴏᴠᴀʙʟᴇ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀꜱ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴄᴀɴ’ᴛ ʜᴇʟᴘ ʙᴜᴛ ꜰᴀʟʟ ꜰᴏʀ. ɪʀᴇʟᴀɴᴅ ɪꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ ᴄᴀᴛ ꜰᴍᴄ ᴡʜᴏ ᴋᴇᴇᴘꜱ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏᴏɴᴇ ᴀᴛ ᴀʀᴍ’ꜱ ʟᴇɴɢᴛʜ ᴀɴᴅ ɪꜱ ᴊᴜꜱᴛ ᴛʀʏɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ɢᴇᴛ ᴛʜʀᴏᴜɢʜ ʜᴇʀ ᴅᴀʏꜱ. ᴀᴅᴀɪʀ ɪꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱᴜɴꜱʜɪɴᴇ/ᴄɪɴɴᴀᴍᴏɴ ʀᴏʟʟ ᴡʜᴏ ᴄᴀʀᴇꜱ ᴅᴇᴇᴘʟʏ ꜰᴏʀ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏᴏɴᴇ ᴀʀᴏᴜɴᴅ ʜɪᴍ ᴀɴᴅ ᴘᴜᴛᴛɪɴɢ ʜɪᴍꜱᴇʟꜰ ʟᴀꜱᴛ. ᴀᴅᴅʏ ɪꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʟᴋɪɴɢ ᴇᴍʙᴏᴅɪᴍᴇɴᴛ ᴏꜰ ᴋɪɴᴅɴᴇꜱꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ɢᴏᴏᴅ ᴠɪʙᴇꜱ. ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴍᴇᴇᴛ-ᴄᴜᴛᴇ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ᴀᴅᴅʏ ᴀɴᴅ ɪʀᴇʟᴀɴᴅ? ʜᴏɴᴇꜱᴛʟʏ, ꜱᴏᴍᴇᴏɴᴇ ɴᴇᴇᴅꜱ ᴛᴏ ᴛᴜʀɴ ᴛʜɪꜱ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ɪɴᴛᴏ ᴀ ᴍᴏᴠɪᴇ ᴀꜱᴀᴘ.
“𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙮 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙝𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙩 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚’𝙨 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙨 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙙𝙖𝙮’𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙩, 𝙄’𝙙 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙮 𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙮𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙥𝙪𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝘼𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙢𝙖 𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙘 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙩.“
ʜᴇ ꜰᴀʟʟꜱ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ-ᴀɴᴅ ʜᴀʀᴅ. ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ɪꜱ ꜱʟᴏᴡ-ʙᴜɪʟᴅɪɴɢ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴍᴏᴍᴇɴᴛ ɪꜱ ꜱᴏ ᴡᴏʀᴛʜ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀɪᴛ. ɪ ʙʟᴜꜱʜᴇᴅ, ɪ ʟᴀᴜɢʜᴇᴅ ᴡʜᴇɴ ᴀᴅᴅʏ ꜱᴛᴜᴍʙʟᴇᴅ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ᴀʙꜱᴏʟᴜᴛᴇʟʏ ꜱᴡᴏᴏɴᴇᴅ ᴅᴜʀɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ᴋɪꜱꜱ. ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ʟᴇᴛ ᴀᴅᴅʏ’ꜱ ꜱʜʏ, ꜱᴡᴇᴇᴛ ɴᴀᴛᴜʀᴇ ꜰᴏᴏʟ ʏᴏᴜ ʟɪᴋᴇ ɪᴛ ᴀʟᴍᴏꜱᴛ ᴅɪᴅ ᴍᴇ-ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴍᴀɴ ᴄᴀɴ ᴇᴀᴛ, ᴀɴᴅ ʜᴇ’ꜱ ɴᴏᴛ ꜱʜʏ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ɪᴛ ᴇɪᴛʜᴇʀ. 👀
ꜰɪᴠᴇ ꜱᴛᴀʀꜱ ✨ ɪ ᴡɪʟʟ ʙᴇ ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴏᴛʜᴇʀ ᴛᴡᴏ ʙᴏᴏᴋꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ’ʟʟ ᴘᴀᴛɪᴇɴᴛʟʏ ʙᴇ ᴡᴀɪᴛɪɴɢ ꜰᴏʀ ᴅᴇʟʟʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴏʟᴇ’ꜱ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴡʀɪᴛᴛᴇɴ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜꜱᴇ ᴛʜᴇʏ ʙᴏᴛʜ ʜᴀᴅ ᴍᴇ ᴄᴀᴄᴋʟɪɴɢ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ɪꜱ ɢᴏɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴡɪʟᴅ.
ʟɪꜱᴛᴇɴ, ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴡᴀꜱ ᴍʏ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ʙʏ ʟᴀɴᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴀʏ-ɪᴛ ᴛʀᴜʟʏ ᴅɪᴅ ɴᴏᴛ ᴅɪꜱᴀᴘᴘᴏɪɴᴛ. ɪᴛ’ꜱ ᴀ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛꜰᴇʟᴛ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ꜱᴛɪᴄᴋʏ ɴᴏᴛᴇꜱ, ɢʀɪᴇꜰ, ʜᴇᴀʟɪɴɢ, ʜᴇᴀʀᴛᴀᴄʜᴇ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴅɪꜱᴄᴏᴠᴇʀɪɴɢ ʜᴀᴘᴘɪɴᴇꜱꜱ ᴡʜᴇʀᴇᴠᴇʀ ʏᴏᴜ ᴄᴀɴ ꜰɪɴᴅ ɪᴛ. ᴛᴇᴀʀꜱ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ꜱʜᴇᴅ ᴀɴᴅ ʟᴀᴜɢʜꜱ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ꜱʜᴀʀᴇᴅ... ᴍᴀɴʏ, ᴍᴀɴʏ ᴛɪᴍᴇꜱ.
“𝙁𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙨𝙖𝙙 𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖 𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙮 𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝘿𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙌𝙪𝙚𝙚𝙣,”
“𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗻𝗼𝘄, 𝗔𝗱𝗱𝘆,” 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗺𝘂𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵. “𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗮 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿. 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗲𝗲𝗺𝘀 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘆.”
ᴛʜᴇ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀꜱ ꜰᴇʟᴛ ꜱᴏ ʀᴇᴀʟ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ɪ ꜰᴏʀɢᴏᴛ ɪ ᴡᴀꜱ ᴊᴜꜱᴛ ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ. ɪᴛ’ꜱ ᴘᴀᴄᴋᴇᴅ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴀᴜᴛʜᴇɴᴛɪᴄ ꜱᴛʀᴜɢɢʟᴇꜱ, ʀᴀᴡ ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴꜱ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟᴇx, ʟᴏᴠᴀʙʟᴇ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀꜱ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴄᴀɴ’ᴛ ʜᴇʟᴘ ʙᴜᴛ ꜰᴀʟʟ ꜰᴏʀ. ɪʀᴇʟᴀɴᴅ ɪꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ʙʟᴀᴄᴋ ᴄᴀᴛ ꜰᴍᴄ ᴡʜᴏ ᴋᴇᴇᴘꜱ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏᴏɴᴇ ᴀᴛ ᴀʀᴍ’ꜱ ʟᴇɴɢᴛʜ ᴀɴᴅ ɪꜱ ᴊᴜꜱᴛ ᴛʀʏɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ɢᴇᴛ ᴛʜʀᴏᴜɢʜ ʜᴇʀ ᴅᴀʏꜱ. ᴀᴅᴀɪʀ ɪꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱᴜɴꜱʜɪɴᴇ/ᴄɪɴɴᴀᴍᴏɴ ʀᴏʟʟ ᴡʜᴏ ᴄᴀʀᴇꜱ ᴅᴇᴇᴘʟʏ ꜰᴏʀ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏᴏɴᴇ ᴀʀᴏᴜɴᴅ ʜɪᴍ ᴀɴᴅ ᴘᴜᴛᴛɪɴɢ ʜɪᴍꜱᴇʟꜰ ʟᴀꜱᴛ. ᴀᴅᴅʏ ɪꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʟᴋɪɴɢ ᴇᴍʙᴏᴅɪᴍᴇɴᴛ ᴏꜰ ᴋɪɴᴅɴᴇꜱꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ɢᴏᴏᴅ ᴠɪʙᴇꜱ. ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴍᴇᴇᴛ-ᴄᴜᴛᴇ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ᴀᴅᴅʏ ᴀɴᴅ ɪʀᴇʟᴀɴᴅ? ʜᴏɴᴇꜱᴛʟʏ, ꜱᴏᴍᴇᴏɴᴇ ɴᴇᴇᴅꜱ ᴛᴏ ᴛᴜʀɴ ᴛʜɪꜱ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ɪɴᴛᴏ ᴀ ᴍᴏᴠɪᴇ ᴀꜱᴀᴘ.
“𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙮 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙝𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙩 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚’𝙨 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙨 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙙𝙖𝙮’𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙩, 𝙄’𝙙 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙮 𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙮𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙥𝙪𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝘼𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙢𝙖 𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙘 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙩.“
ʜᴇ ꜰᴀʟʟꜱ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ-ᴀɴᴅ ʜᴀʀᴅ. ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ɪꜱ ꜱʟᴏᴡ-ʙᴜɪʟᴅɪɴɢ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴍᴏᴍᴇɴᴛ ɪꜱ ꜱᴏ ᴡᴏʀᴛʜ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀɪᴛ. ɪ ʙʟᴜꜱʜᴇᴅ, ɪ ʟᴀᴜɢʜᴇᴅ ᴡʜᴇɴ ᴀᴅᴅʏ ꜱᴛᴜᴍʙʟᴇᴅ, ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ᴀʙꜱᴏʟᴜᴛᴇʟʏ ꜱᴡᴏᴏɴᴇᴅ ᴅᴜʀɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ᴋɪꜱꜱ. ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ʟᴇᴛ ᴀᴅᴅʏ’ꜱ ꜱʜʏ, ꜱᴡᴇᴇᴛ ɴᴀᴛᴜʀᴇ ꜰᴏᴏʟ ʏᴏᴜ ʟɪᴋᴇ ɪᴛ ᴀʟᴍᴏꜱᴛ ᴅɪᴅ ᴍᴇ-ᴛʜɪꜱ ᴍᴀɴ ᴄᴀɴ ᴇᴀᴛ, ᴀɴᴅ ʜᴇ’ꜱ ɴᴏᴛ ꜱʜʏ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ɪᴛ ᴇɪᴛʜᴇʀ. 👀
ꜰɪᴠᴇ ꜱᴛᴀʀꜱ ✨ ɪ ᴡɪʟʟ ʙᴇ ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴏᴛʜᴇʀ ᴛᴡᴏ ʙᴏᴏᴋꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ’ʟʟ ᴘᴀᴛɪᴇɴᴛʟʏ ʙᴇ ᴡᴀɪᴛɪɴɢ ꜰᴏʀ ᴅᴇʟʟʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄᴏʟᴇ’ꜱ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴡʀɪᴛᴛᴇɴ ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜꜱᴇ ᴛʜᴇʏ ʙᴏᴛʜ ʜᴀᴅ ᴍᴇ ᴄᴀᴄᴋʟɪɴɢ ᴀɴᴅ ɪ ᴋɴᴏᴡ ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏ ɪꜱ ɢᴏɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ᴡɪʟᴅ.
September 14, 2025
One day I will read one of Lane's books without crying. Today was not that day. I loved this book so much!! It may be in battle for my favorite book in this series, but really how could one possibly pick a favorite?? Ireland was so incredible to watch, as she navigated her own life changes, grief, and adjusting to being a caregiver! I was so in love with her as she used her passion to help the people in the Locc, while she was working so hard to adjust to her new life, and accepted the love and support of the new people in her life! And Adair. This man. I wasn't sure I could love a man as much as I do the Lott brothers, and then Adair crashed in on his crutches and made us all just adore him from the get go! He was the sweetest, most caring man for his sister, for Pops, for Cole, and for Ireland and her dad! I absolutely could not get enough of him and his little nerd heart! These were just the perfect examples of life changes and navigating the uncertainties of those changes! Plus they each had such real and raw journeys of learning how to accept help and accept the love of their people. And, in true Stapled Magnolias fashion, the entire cast of characters were so amazing to see come together! It's hard to call any of them side characters, as they made the best world all together! I couldn't love this book or this series any more!! 5 stars; 3 chili peppers
Tropes:
- Roommates
- Strangers to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Hurt/Comfort
- Golden Retriever x Black Cat
- Meddling Friends and Family
Tropes:
- Roommates
- Strangers to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Hurt/Comfort
- Golden Retriever x Black Cat
- Meddling Friends and Family
September 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
To be loved by Adair is to be known in the truest sense of the word—seen for every flaw, cherished for every softness, and cared for with devotion. He isn’t flawless, but that’s what makes him extraordinary. Kind, intentional, patient, and deeply compassionate. And yes… humble, quietly smoldering, and utterly attentive. Lordy.
The story unfolds in a memory care facility and retirement community, and the author doesn’t shy away from the weight of that environment. It’s not just background scenery, it is central to the story. You feel the reality of aging, memory loss, and the heartbreak of watching loved ones fade, but also the resilience, humor, and grace that can be found even in those spaces. Prepare for tears, but also laughter.
Adair and Ireland’s connection is a slow burn, but it’s all the more powerful for it. Both are carrying their own grief, both are shaped by loss, yet together they carve out something tender and lasting. Their love feels inevitable—not because it’s easy, but because it’s true.
You’re left with an overwhelming sense of how fleeting time can be, but also with the reminder that love, when it’s real, stretches beyond time.
This book is a love story and what it means to really see another person. And to be seen in return.
5 stars
Slow burn
Roommates to lovers
Black cat FMC 🐈⬛/ sunshine MMC 🌞
Emotional and heartwarming
No 3rd act break up
Open door
2.5-3 🌶️
Standalone
To be loved by Adair is to be known in the truest sense of the word—seen for every flaw, cherished for every softness, and cared for with devotion. He isn’t flawless, but that’s what makes him extraordinary. Kind, intentional, patient, and deeply compassionate. And yes… humble, quietly smoldering, and utterly attentive. Lordy.
The story unfolds in a memory care facility and retirement community, and the author doesn’t shy away from the weight of that environment. It’s not just background scenery, it is central to the story. You feel the reality of aging, memory loss, and the heartbreak of watching loved ones fade, but also the resilience, humor, and grace that can be found even in those spaces. Prepare for tears, but also laughter.
Adair and Ireland’s connection is a slow burn, but it’s all the more powerful for it. Both are carrying their own grief, both are shaped by loss, yet together they carve out something tender and lasting. Their love feels inevitable—not because it’s easy, but because it’s true.
You’re left with an overwhelming sense of how fleeting time can be, but also with the reminder that love, when it’s real, stretches beyond time.
This book is a love story and what it means to really see another person. And to be seen in return.
5 stars
Slow burn
Roommates to lovers
Black cat FMC 🐈⬛/ sunshine MMC 🌞
Emotional and heartwarming
No 3rd act break up
Open door
2.5-3 🌶️
Standalone
September 19, 2025
Oh look, @authorlaneoneil wrecked me in the best way possible AGAIN. 😂
I was not prepared to tear up this many times and yet here I am. Distant Shores fractured my heart and then stitched it back together so many times. It was emotional, bittersweet, and honestly so refreshing to read something in such a unique setting. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, sometimes all at once. Land gave us a black cat FMC and a golden retriever MMC, side characters who made me want to beg for their own books (AGAIN!), and a story that felt so real I forgot I was reading. I also loved seeing some of our favorites from the previous books again. Not fair making me relive a certain something again, Lane! Ireland aka Indigo Girl (literally that nickname🤌🏻) is the definition of a woman doing her best and burning herself out for the ones she loves. And Adair… that man. HE LITERALLY GETS ON HIS KNEES FOR HER WHILE… you’ll just have to read. He’s so selfless and caring and will do just about anything to make his favorite girls (yes Ireland and his sister Delly) smile. I already cannot wait to see what is next for the Stapled Magnolia world or just really anything @authorlaneoneil gives us!
I was not prepared to tear up this many times and yet here I am. Distant Shores fractured my heart and then stitched it back together so many times. It was emotional, bittersweet, and honestly so refreshing to read something in such a unique setting. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, sometimes all at once. Land gave us a black cat FMC and a golden retriever MMC, side characters who made me want to beg for their own books (AGAIN!), and a story that felt so real I forgot I was reading. I also loved seeing some of our favorites from the previous books again. Not fair making me relive a certain something again, Lane! Ireland aka Indigo Girl (literally that nickname🤌🏻) is the definition of a woman doing her best and burning herself out for the ones she loves. And Adair… that man. HE LITERALLY GETS ON HIS KNEES FOR HER WHILE… you’ll just have to read. He’s so selfless and caring and will do just about anything to make his favorite girls (yes Ireland and his sister Delly) smile. I already cannot wait to see what is next for the Stapled Magnolia world or just really anything @authorlaneoneil gives us!
December 1, 2025
i am just sobbing, this was just such a beautiful book! black cat x sunshine trope is just *chef's kiss*
their entire relationship, from the very start of the book until the end just filled me with so much feelings that i don't know what to do with 😭
Indigo and Adair's relationship is just absolute goals 🥹 Indigo's growth all throughout the book is just so beautiful to watch, and how she falls in love with Adair is just 😭😭😭😭 and Adair!! Lordy! a literal walking green flag!!!!! i cannot wish for a better MMC to be the sunshine to Indigo's black cat 🥹😭 Adair is just an absolute sweetheart on the streets and 🥵 on the sheets 🤧
this was just an absolutely lovely read that touches on so many topics that people who are caregivers, paramedics, part of the healthcare team and those with family members and loved ones who experience memory loss, that is just so well-written and encapsulates what i believe most people who are in this field and/or are caring for these types of patients would resonate with.
absolutely would recommend this book!!! distant shores is now part of my fave books read for this year!
their entire relationship, from the very start of the book until the end just filled me with so much feelings that i don't know what to do with 😭
Indigo and Adair's relationship is just absolute goals 🥹 Indigo's growth all throughout the book is just so beautiful to watch, and how she falls in love with Adair is just 😭😭😭😭 and Adair!! Lordy! a literal walking green flag!!!!! i cannot wish for a better MMC to be the sunshine to Indigo's black cat 🥹😭 Adair is just an absolute sweetheart on the streets and 🥵 on the sheets 🤧
this was just an absolutely lovely read that touches on so many topics that people who are caregivers, paramedics, part of the healthcare team and those with family members and loved ones who experience memory loss, that is just so well-written and encapsulates what i believe most people who are in this field and/or are caring for these types of patients would resonate with.
absolutely would recommend this book!!! distant shores is now part of my fave books read for this year!
September 6, 2025
• If you’ve read the prior books by Lane you know how invested you are at this point in the Stapled Magnolias series. And boy, I don’t want it to end. I’m practically begging her to write another about a certain sis and friend. Iykyk.
• Ireland, my 🐈⬛ babe & Adair, the ☀️ paramedic. They literally smash into each other’s lives when they both could use someone who understands what they’re going through. (Whether they admit it or not.) From roommates to something so much more special. The sticky notes 😭 the adorableness of that was insane. Their connection is so damn genuine & honestly it’s beautiful. And when the burn isn’t so slow anymore um, yes 🔥 the chemistry is unmatched.
• You see friends from the prior books (yes they’re my friends okay near and dear) intertwined in the story and in their lives.
• It was an emotional ride, and I felt allllllll sorts of things. Relatable at many parts. But I also smiled so hard and giggled like I was a part of the story too.
• 10000000000000% recommend.
• Ireland, my 🐈⬛ babe & Adair, the ☀️ paramedic. They literally smash into each other’s lives when they both could use someone who understands what they’re going through. (Whether they admit it or not.) From roommates to something so much more special. The sticky notes 😭 the adorableness of that was insane. Their connection is so damn genuine & honestly it’s beautiful. And when the burn isn’t so slow anymore um, yes 🔥 the chemistry is unmatched.
• You see friends from the prior books (yes they’re my friends okay near and dear) intertwined in the story and in their lives.
• It was an emotional ride, and I felt allllllll sorts of things. Relatable at many parts. But I also smiled so hard and giggled like I was a part of the story too.
• 10000000000000% recommend.
September 13, 2025
"Yeah, Adair Jacks was hot. The only person who was unaware of this was Adair. Which, unfortunately, only made him hotter."
AND I COMPLETELY, WHOLEHEARTEDLY AGREE WITH THIS STATEMENT!
My god, if he gets any hotter my screen is gonna combust...
Now this proves that all we need is a man that cares and notices those little things about us.
Doesn't hurt that he looks like Clark Kent...
"No matter how many eyes lingered on him, he never noticed unless they were mine."
One thing Lane O’Neil absolutely nails, in my opinion, is the spice.
The scenes are SO well written! Honestly some of the best I’ve read.
And I know this might sound weird, but they feel… almost immersive? 😆
"It was the beginning. Of me giving her my everything, and her giving me the same. Together, to whatever distant shore."
After reading books 1 and 2, slipping into this one felt so easy. I was instantly connected.
Every time a familiar name popped up, I couldn’t help but smile like I was bumping into an old friend.
Of course, I couldn’t forget the heartbreak from the last book, and in this one, we get to see more of the aftermath. I’m trying really hard not to spoil book 2, so sorry if this sounds a little vague 😅.
If I had to point out one negative, I’d say the ending felt a bit rushed. Ireland’s fears about commitment seemed unexplored and kind of brushed aside, like we skipped straight past them just to get to the HEA.
And that was the only reason this book wasn't a 5 star read for me.
AND I COMPLETELY, WHOLEHEARTEDLY AGREE WITH THIS STATEMENT!
My god, if he gets any hotter my screen is gonna combust...
Now this proves that all we need is a man that cares and notices those little things about us.
Doesn't hurt that he looks like Clark Kent...
"No matter how many eyes lingered on him, he never noticed unless they were mine."
One thing Lane O’Neil absolutely nails, in my opinion, is the spice.
The scenes are SO well written! Honestly some of the best I’ve read.
And I know this might sound weird, but they feel… almost immersive? 😆
"It was the beginning. Of me giving her my everything, and her giving me the same. Together, to whatever distant shore."
After reading books 1 and 2, slipping into this one felt so easy. I was instantly connected.
Every time a familiar name popped up, I couldn’t help but smile like I was bumping into an old friend.
Of course, I couldn’t forget the heartbreak from the last book, and in this one, we get to see more of the aftermath. I’m trying really hard not to spoil book 2, so sorry if this sounds a little vague 😅.
If I had to point out one negative, I’d say the ending felt a bit rushed. Ireland’s fears about commitment seemed unexplored and kind of brushed aside, like we skipped straight past them just to get to the HEA.
And that was the only reason this book wasn't a 5 star read for me.
September 18, 2025
First there was Bree and Vinh and I loved them so much. Then Liem and Cody became my favorite. Now we get Ireland and Adair. It's so hard to choose a favorite couple but these two may have just shocked me by pushing their way to the top of the list. I love them so freaking much! Ireland and her resting bitch face, black cat vibes but with a big heart under it all. And then freaking Adair with his always smiling, caretaking, adorable, .... just everything!
These two were perfect, so cute and awkward, sweet and steamy, all of it. They found each other in such a meet-cute way during such a difficult time in both their lives. The emotional aspect of their journey including their family in a memory care facility brought a whole other level to their story that was so touching. And did I mention the steam? Cuz... yeah we got that too.
If this is the momentum this series has going, who knows what's in stake for our hearts next. But you know what... I'm totally here for it. Bring it on. Sooner rather than later, thank you.
These two were perfect, so cute and awkward, sweet and steamy, all of it. They found each other in such a meet-cute way during such a difficult time in both their lives. The emotional aspect of their journey including their family in a memory care facility brought a whole other level to their story that was so touching. And did I mention the steam? Cuz... yeah we got that too.
If this is the momentum this series has going, who knows what's in stake for our hearts next. But you know what... I'm totally here for it. Bring it on. Sooner rather than later, thank you.
September 20, 2025
Once again, the author delivers a heart-touching romance.
This one, I will admit, was a little tougher to get through. There is a lot of the story that deals with having family members who are aging and the disabilities that may come with aging, such as Dementia and Parkinson's. I felt that the author handles the fears and relationships towards this in a loving and open manner that was really heartwarming.
The two MC's (Adair and Ireland) are going through so much and manage to find themselves in one another. There are times when I felt things jumped too quickly for them in their relationship, as well as that the type of relationship they had didn't feel as deep or communicated as in the previous books. That being said, the relationship worked for these characters.
I do love many of the side characters (Delly, Cole, and, of course, Miss Lenny)!
I think my biggest takeaway from this book is that the communities for those who have reached a certain age can still be thriving communities full of life and friendships, and I found that wonderful!
This one, I will admit, was a little tougher to get through. There is a lot of the story that deals with having family members who are aging and the disabilities that may come with aging, such as Dementia and Parkinson's. I felt that the author handles the fears and relationships towards this in a loving and open manner that was really heartwarming.
The two MC's (Adair and Ireland) are going through so much and manage to find themselves in one another. There are times when I felt things jumped too quickly for them in their relationship, as well as that the type of relationship they had didn't feel as deep or communicated as in the previous books. That being said, the relationship worked for these characters.
I do love many of the side characters (Delly, Cole, and, of course, Miss Lenny)!
I think my biggest takeaway from this book is that the communities for those who have reached a certain age can still be thriving communities full of life and friendships, and I found that wonderful!
September 26, 2025
Going to a new place in order to get your father the care he needs is never an easy decision. Ireland was doing everything in her power to make sure that her father was getting the proper treatment for his disease. That meant every dime she was earning was going towards his care. Leaving her with very little. The woman was just going through the motions, closed off and doing the best that she could.
When they came to her to talk about a roommate for her dad, she was worried until she met the man that they wanted to room with him and his grandson. Wilbur and Adair were quite interesting to her. She had seen Adair before, but they hadn't exchanged names. It had just been a chance encounter.
Adair is instantly smitten with Ireland. Even if he didn't know her name at the time. He wanted to learn everything about her and get her to come out of her shell. Ireland put forward a hard exterior not wanting to let anyone in for fear of being hurt. Their romance blooms quickly and blossoms slowly.
When they came to her to talk about a roommate for her dad, she was worried until she met the man that they wanted to room with him and his grandson. Wilbur and Adair were quite interesting to her. She had seen Adair before, but they hadn't exchanged names. It had just been a chance encounter.
Adair is instantly smitten with Ireland. Even if he didn't know her name at the time. He wanted to learn everything about her and get her to come out of her shell. Ireland put forward a hard exterior not wanting to let anyone in for fear of being hurt. Their romance blooms quickly and blossoms slowly.
September 19, 2025
Adair is such a sweetheart. I love his character. I love how he made sure she never feel embarrased and is comfortable. He was so in love with her in the cutest way possible. I way he care for, I was blushing and giggling throught the book so much. No doubt he is my no 1 book boyfriend now.
Ireland is fierce strong character. Both of them carrying their own responsibilities and grief. It was a slow burn but their chemistry was so worth it.
I’m so in love with this series. Lane books is such an amazing experience. Each character is close to my heart, and the found family dynamic is one of the best I’ve ever read. All the character bring so much fun and emotion to the story. Each character such a distinct voice that they all feel real and are unforgettable. I have laughed, and cried while turning the pages. I love the Liem and Cody moments. Cole character was amazing. I get why people love him.
Ireland is fierce strong character. Both of them carrying their own responsibilities and grief. It was a slow burn but their chemistry was so worth it.
I’m so in love with this series. Lane books is such an amazing experience. Each character is close to my heart, and the found family dynamic is one of the best I’ve ever read. All the character bring so much fun and emotion to the story. Each character such a distinct voice that they all feel real and are unforgettable. I have laughed, and cried while turning the pages. I love the Liem and Cody moments. Cole character was amazing. I get why people love him.
September 20, 2025
I feel like I went through all the emotions in this book. There were some gut wrenching moments, also some really beautiful ones as well. You will laugh and cry but most importantly you fall in love with all the characters. Adair and Ireland are going through some tough moments in their lives and find support in each other. Adair is such a sweetheart, he is the definition of a walking green flag. The way he’s so caring and in tune with Irelands needs is beautiful. I really loved Ireland as well, I liked getting to see her navigate some really complex life challenges. Their connection grew so naturally it felt really genuine. I absolutely loved the sticky notes. Then when things go from slow burn to spicy, which is really well done, it is so much MORE. Such a great read and I definitely recommend it. Please check your triggers with this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 24, 2025
The Stapled Magnolia series never misses and Distant Shores is no exception. Having been a caretaker myself, the level of truth, grief, love, and healing in this story brought me laughter, tears, pain, and joy. Ireland’s struggle with opening up and letting anyone in feels so relatable and heartbreaking at the same time. Adair’s determination to show Ireland that she deserves love while showing incredible care in the way that he goes about proving that to her is beyond beautiful. The fear and guilt both she and Adair live with about the people they love and what those people have gone through while struggling with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s hits so close to home. Everything felt so real and heavy while infusing the joy of Adair and Ireland falling in love. It was one of the most comforting books I have read in long time. Love can bloom in the roughest of times and that makes it even more special.
September 18, 2025
ARC REVIEW
This book was amazing, it is by far my favorite in the Stapled Magnolias series. This book was such a page turner I could not put it down. I used to love the broody grump but I am starting to see the appeal of a golden retriever. Addy is all green flags, I love a cute shy guy who does not know they are cute. I loved our female character how the author was able to make Ireland this tuff person but still make her seem vulnerable in a way the audience can just fall for her and want to hug her. I also loved the emotional piece and showing the impact having a memory disease can have and how sad it can be to see a person you love dearly not recognize you, its like having them with you but not having them at the same time. I got emotional reading this book but I also had moments I laughed and swooned over these characters
This book was amazing, it is by far my favorite in the Stapled Magnolias series. This book was such a page turner I could not put it down. I used to love the broody grump but I am starting to see the appeal of a golden retriever. Addy is all green flags, I love a cute shy guy who does not know they are cute. I loved our female character how the author was able to make Ireland this tuff person but still make her seem vulnerable in a way the audience can just fall for her and want to hug her. I also loved the emotional piece and showing the impact having a memory disease can have and how sad it can be to see a person you love dearly not recognize you, its like having them with you but not having them at the same time. I got emotional reading this book but I also had moments I laughed and swooned over these characters
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2025
An absolute slowwwww burn that had me kicking my feet just waiting for the first kiss! Such a great mix of spicy and heart felt. Lane O’Neil did such a good job keeping me totally wrapped up in this story from the first page showing the harsh realities that come with memory loss diseases (I was balling, they hit so close to home) to end of the book with every touching and spicy seen between the FMC AND MMC. I really loved getting to watch every character grown together and as individuals navigating new relationships and their new realities with the changes their friends and family experience. So many great messages about self care and learning to accept help for the first time. Must read and expecially great as a cosy read going into fall!
September 14, 2025
I mean… cute? Yes!
He falls first? Yes!
Do I understand her? Nope! I’m sorry I don’t. And I realise this is a limitation of mine, and has nothing to do with the book!
I haven’t read the other books in the series, but it was easy enough for me to follow the characters in this one, as it could be read as a standalone- for sure.
Adair is… basically the manual of the “good guy” impersonated. But Ireland? … why do most of people in the book like her? I don’t see it.
Anyway… the book is a very cute summer romance, that includes mental health and senior leaving issues- triggers are there at the beginning of the book for a reason :)
I received an Arc copy for early reviews and this was my honest opinion
He falls first? Yes!
Do I understand her? Nope! I’m sorry I don’t. And I realise this is a limitation of mine, and has nothing to do with the book!
I haven’t read the other books in the series, but it was easy enough for me to follow the characters in this one, as it could be read as a standalone- for sure.
Adair is… basically the manual of the “good guy” impersonated. But Ireland? … why do most of people in the book like her? I don’t see it.
Anyway… the book is a very cute summer romance, that includes mental health and senior leaving issues- triggers are there at the beginning of the book for a reason :)
I received an Arc copy for early reviews and this was my honest opinion
September 17, 2025
I read Lady Luck and fell in love with the Fortuna family and was eager to continue with Missed Sunrise. Both of them were great books, so I was beyond thrilled when I received the ARC for Distant Shores. I was immediately hooked and l could not put it down!! Adair was so sweet and caring, and I loved how intuitive he was about Ireland's feelings even when she was so closed off. Ireland had so much depth to her despite the "coldness" she protrayed to outsiders. Lane did a great job really demonstrating the challenges of having parents dealing with declining health. There was also awesome side characters that really helped add to the family unit. I am definitely ordering my physical copy so it can be added to my collection!
September 19, 2025
Thank you Lane O'Neil for gifting me with the ARC of this book.
Rating - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice - 🌶️🌶️ - Open door
Thank you Lane O'Neil for gifting me with the ARC of this book. 🙂
Rating - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice - 🌶️🌶️ - Open door
Read this book if you enjoy a dual POV (which are my current favs), a slow burn between roommates, found family, & a green flag sweet and sexy male lead.
There are so many facets to this book that I enjoyed. I had trouble putting down! Adair is kind, sweet, and sexy! I was so invested in all of his relationships - with his Pops, his sister, Delly, and even his friend Cole. Then, there’s Ireland and her post it notes - it’s how their relationship blossoms.
The heart-filled story of their relatives and their memory care was so well written. The sadness mixed with love and joy makes this book an enjoyable read!
Rating - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice - 🌶️🌶️ - Open door
Thank you Lane O'Neil for gifting me with the ARC of this book. 🙂
Rating - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice - 🌶️🌶️ - Open door
Read this book if you enjoy a dual POV (which are my current favs), a slow burn between roommates, found family, & a green flag sweet and sexy male lead.
There are so many facets to this book that I enjoyed. I had trouble putting down! Adair is kind, sweet, and sexy! I was so invested in all of his relationships - with his Pops, his sister, Delly, and even his friend Cole. Then, there’s Ireland and her post it notes - it’s how their relationship blossoms.
The heart-filled story of their relatives and their memory care was so well written. The sadness mixed with love and joy makes this book an enjoyable read!
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