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Dibs
Sometimes the love we've been waiting for...has been waiting on us all along.
ASPYN BECKETT
Not letting me eat bacon should have been the last straw...but it wasn't. I let a man string me along for nearly ten years, waiting for a ring.
Now I'm on the Goodbye Sean Tour: one woman, one suitcase, zero patience for emotional manipulation. Somehow, my ex's now-ex-best friend, Deacon Ambrose, has ended up as my unofficial hype man.
I needed a place to stay. He had a spare room. I told myself it was temporary. But somewhere between X, Y, and Z, things started to shift.
DEACON AMBROSE
For nearly a decade, I've watched the woman I wanted build a life with a guy who didn't deserve her.
Back in college, Sean called dibs like we were choosing teams.
Now Sean's gone, Aspyn's crashing at my place, and I'm out of excuses. She's here, slowly putting herself back together.
Maybe it's not too late after all.
ASPYN BECKETT
Not letting me eat bacon should have been the last straw...but it wasn't. I let a man string me along for nearly ten years, waiting for a ring.
Now I'm on the Goodbye Sean Tour: one woman, one suitcase, zero patience for emotional manipulation. Somehow, my ex's now-ex-best friend, Deacon Ambrose, has ended up as my unofficial hype man.
I needed a place to stay. He had a spare room. I told myself it was temporary. But somewhere between X, Y, and Z, things started to shift.
DEACON AMBROSE
For nearly a decade, I've watched the woman I wanted build a life with a guy who didn't deserve her.
Back in college, Sean called dibs like we were choosing teams.
Now Sean's gone, Aspyn's crashing at my place, and I'm out of excuses. She's here, slowly putting herself back together.
Maybe it's not too late after all.
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 18, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
August 18, 2025
I received an advanced reader copy of Dibs by Melissa Senger, and while I’m so grateful for the opportunity, all thoughts in this review are my honest opinions.
Dibs is a fun debut romance that blends several tropes I know many readers will love: second chance vibes, forced proximity, the boyfriend’s best friend romance, and of course, the cinnamon-roll hero.
Aspyn is finally walking away from a relationship that never gave her what she deserved, and in steps Deacon—the steady, loyal friend who has quietly loved and supported her for years. This is their shot, and the story unfolds with a feel-good, romantic warmth that makes it an easy comfort read.
For me personally, while I enjoyed the setup and the sweetness of the romance, I struggled at times to fully connect with the characters. I found myself wishing for more depth and development in their interpersonal relationships, especially given how much history these characters share. That said, Deacon really shines as the epitome of a “good guy” hero—thoughtful, patient, and exactly the kind of support Aspyn needed as she rediscovers herself.
As a debut, this book has a lot of promise, and I think many romance readers will appreciate its charm, heart, and fresh take on familiar tropes. It’s a feel-good story about moving on, healing, and finally claiming the love that’s been waiting all along. I’d recommend Dibs to anyone looking for a sweet, trope-filled romance that delivers a satisfying happily ever after.
Dibs is a fun debut romance that blends several tropes I know many readers will love: second chance vibes, forced proximity, the boyfriend’s best friend romance, and of course, the cinnamon-roll hero.
Aspyn is finally walking away from a relationship that never gave her what she deserved, and in steps Deacon—the steady, loyal friend who has quietly loved and supported her for years. This is their shot, and the story unfolds with a feel-good, romantic warmth that makes it an easy comfort read.
For me personally, while I enjoyed the setup and the sweetness of the romance, I struggled at times to fully connect with the characters. I found myself wishing for more depth and development in their interpersonal relationships, especially given how much history these characters share. That said, Deacon really shines as the epitome of a “good guy” hero—thoughtful, patient, and exactly the kind of support Aspyn needed as she rediscovers herself.
As a debut, this book has a lot of promise, and I think many romance readers will appreciate its charm, heart, and fresh take on familiar tropes. It’s a feel-good story about moving on, healing, and finally claiming the love that’s been waiting all along. I’d recommend Dibs to anyone looking for a sweet, trope-filled romance that delivers a satisfying happily ever after.
September 1, 2025
2.75
The book had something awesome, but as soon as deacon became super involved it was just “baby I love you and our perfect life”. I would have liked to see more pining and not everything working out so well.
And Sean just perfectly getting hell after, just too done in a neat bow.
The book had something awesome, but as soon as deacon became super involved it was just “baby I love you and our perfect life”. I would have liked to see more pining and not everything working out so well.
And Sean just perfectly getting hell after, just too done in a neat bow.
August 29, 2025
Dibs by Melissa Senger
Dibs is a heartfelt contemporary romance that follows the story of lifelong friends navigating the line between friendship and love. With plenty of banter, chemistry, and emotional depth, Melissa Senger delivers a sweet yet meaningful romance about knowing your worth, embracing self-love, and not settling for less than what you deserve.
I really enjoyed this book! While it wasn’t a full 5-star read for me, it’s definitely a solid 3.8 stars. It’s the perfect easy-to-read book for the beach or on vacation—one you can completely lose yourself in. I devoured it in a single day!
I’m absolutely a fan of Deacon—he’s simply the kind of perfect man/husband you can’t help but adore. The tropes were so fun and well done: friends to lovers, he falls first—exactly the kind of romance dynamics I love. Beyond the romance, the story carries subtle but beautiful messages about self-love and refusing to settle for less.
Overall, it was such an enjoyable read with a lovely romance. The pacing felt a little quick and choppy at times, but on the other hand, when you’ve known someone for over ten years and share that kind of deep bond, you don’t really need a “first date” phase. And of course, the bit of spice sprinkled in made the book even more satisfying.
I’d definitely recommend Dibs if you’re looking for a sweet, engaging romance to escape with.
Dibs is a heartfelt contemporary romance that follows the story of lifelong friends navigating the line between friendship and love. With plenty of banter, chemistry, and emotional depth, Melissa Senger delivers a sweet yet meaningful romance about knowing your worth, embracing self-love, and not settling for less than what you deserve.
I really enjoyed this book! While it wasn’t a full 5-star read for me, it’s definitely a solid 3.8 stars. It’s the perfect easy-to-read book for the beach or on vacation—one you can completely lose yourself in. I devoured it in a single day!
I’m absolutely a fan of Deacon—he’s simply the kind of perfect man/husband you can’t help but adore. The tropes were so fun and well done: friends to lovers, he falls first—exactly the kind of romance dynamics I love. Beyond the romance, the story carries subtle but beautiful messages about self-love and refusing to settle for less.
Overall, it was such an enjoyable read with a lovely romance. The pacing felt a little quick and choppy at times, but on the other hand, when you’ve known someone for over ten years and share that kind of deep bond, you don’t really need a “first date” phase. And of course, the bit of spice sprinkled in made the book even more satisfying.
I’d definitely recommend Dibs if you’re looking for a sweet, engaging romance to escape with.
August 9, 2025
Loved this! Aspyn and Deacon’s chemistry is chef’s kiss. Funny, flirty, and full of heart. The banter had me grinning, and the slow burn was worth every page. Perfect mix of romance, humor, and feels.
August 19, 2025
I couldn't put this book down! Aspyn made me laugh and Deacon made me swoon. Definitely recommend for a quick, easy read that'll keep you wanting more.
August 28, 2025
Sometimes the love we've been waiting for... has been waiting on us all along!
Well, 10 years in a relationship is definitely a waste with no ring on your finger. I wouldn’t wait that long, but what Aspyn went through is something many women face too—a relationship with a narcissist.
Deacon is portrayed as a true gentleman who knows and respects boundaries, especially with a woman fresh out of a breakup. Aspyn, on the other hand, is shown as someone who was losing herself but determined to come back stronger as her own person.
I like how realistic and logical the situation is. You aren’t immediately thrown into the romance, but the sweetness is there from the beginning—which feels right given what they were both going through. And once it does hit, well, you’ll be catching your breath.
I’d describe the pace of the story as steady, though the timeline itself moves quickly. The emotions are all there—sad, angry, touched, shocked, happy—and they felt genuine to me.
That said, I do wish the “sorting Deacon’s mom stuff” part had been shortened so there could be more focus on their story together.
Nevertheless, it’s a spicy romance that I enjoyed.
Thanks to Melissa for the ARC! This review is voluntary and reflects my own thoughts.
Well, 10 years in a relationship is definitely a waste with no ring on your finger. I wouldn’t wait that long, but what Aspyn went through is something many women face too—a relationship with a narcissist.
Deacon is portrayed as a true gentleman who knows and respects boundaries, especially with a woman fresh out of a breakup. Aspyn, on the other hand, is shown as someone who was losing herself but determined to come back stronger as her own person.
I like how realistic and logical the situation is. You aren’t immediately thrown into the romance, but the sweetness is there from the beginning—which feels right given what they were both going through. And once it does hit, well, you’ll be catching your breath.
I’d describe the pace of the story as steady, though the timeline itself moves quickly. The emotions are all there—sad, angry, touched, shocked, happy—and they felt genuine to me.
That said, I do wish the “sorting Deacon’s mom stuff” part had been shortened so there could be more focus on their story together.
Nevertheless, it’s a spicy romance that I enjoyed.
Thanks to Melissa for the ARC! This review is voluntary and reflects my own thoughts.
August 16, 2025
Dibs is a wholesome, friends-to-lovers romance that had me grinning the entire time. Deacon is the kind of cinnamon-roll hero you can’t help but root for, and the banter between him and the heroine is sweet and genuine.
The first half shines: lots of slow-burn tension, mutual pining, and plenty of feel-good moments that kept me turning pages. My only quibble is how quickly everything accelerates once they finally get together—engagement, marriage, and a baby all arrive in rapid-fire succession. I would’ve loved just a bit more time to savor their new dynamic.
Still, the romance is heartwarming, the chemistry is unmistakable, and the overall story left me happy and swoony. If you’re in the mood for a short, sweet read with a lovable hero and a feel-good payoff, this one’s worth picking up!
The first half shines: lots of slow-burn tension, mutual pining, and plenty of feel-good moments that kept me turning pages. My only quibble is how quickly everything accelerates once they finally get together—engagement, marriage, and a baby all arrive in rapid-fire succession. I would’ve loved just a bit more time to savor their new dynamic.
Still, the romance is heartwarming, the chemistry is unmistakable, and the overall story left me happy and swoony. If you’re in the mood for a short, sweet read with a lovable hero and a feel-good payoff, this one’s worth picking up!
August 11, 2025
I received a free copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Absolutely adored this one! The chemistry between the characters felt so natural, and the vivid imagery made me feel like I was right there with them in the mountains.
Absolutely adored this one! The chemistry between the characters felt so natural, and the vivid imagery made me feel like I was right there with them in the mountains.
August 18, 2025
This book had me from the first chapter and I loved it so much. I loved Aspyn and deacons story. I 10/10 recommend this book.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 19, 2025
ARC Review
Rating: 5 Stars!
I had the honor of receiving an advanced copy of this book! I absolutely loved this book, it had me hooked from the very start, this book follows Aspyn & Deacon (even tho he calls her Becks which i love). It starts off Aspyn the night before her future sister-in-laws wedding finding out her boyfriend was cheating on her, his best friend but also her best friend Deacon is there at the wedding providing her support and back up. After she needs to move out of her ex's home she moves in with Deacon and soon things start to heat up. He has loved her for years but because his friend called Dibs he couldn't do anything about it. Their love is so pure, i had moments of swooning. Deacon is the perfect book boyfriend!
one of my fav quotes "If Beck lets me inside her, I'll be the one who puts a ring on her finger and comes home to her every night. Only her. She's all the woman I'll ever need"
Rating: 5 Stars!
I had the honor of receiving an advanced copy of this book! I absolutely loved this book, it had me hooked from the very start, this book follows Aspyn & Deacon (even tho he calls her Becks which i love). It starts off Aspyn the night before her future sister-in-laws wedding finding out her boyfriend was cheating on her, his best friend but also her best friend Deacon is there at the wedding providing her support and back up. After she needs to move out of her ex's home she moves in with Deacon and soon things start to heat up. He has loved her for years but because his friend called Dibs he couldn't do anything about it. Their love is so pure, i had moments of swooning. Deacon is the perfect book boyfriend!
one of my fav quotes "If Beck lets me inside her, I'll be the one who puts a ring on her finger and comes home to her every night. Only her. She's all the woman I'll ever need"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2026
4⭐️ 3.25🌶
For a debut novel, this was done fairly well. There were just a few areas that, in my opinion, could have used a bit more attention.
The beginning of the story was fantastic—I loved the BFF dynamic between Deacon and Aspyn, especially the obvious attraction that somehow went completely overlooked (which honestly I thought was super cute). Their chemistry and connection early on were really strong which had me fully involved in the story.
Around the 70% mark, though, the pacing started to feel rushed, and it took away a bit from the relationship development and chemistry that had been built so well at the start. I just feel like the transition could have been drawn out a bit longer allowing them to grow in this new unknown area rather than jumping straight to perfection.
Overall, I did enjoy the story, and I think it would make a great read to slip in between heavier books!
For a debut novel, this was done fairly well. There were just a few areas that, in my opinion, could have used a bit more attention.
The beginning of the story was fantastic—I loved the BFF dynamic between Deacon and Aspyn, especially the obvious attraction that somehow went completely overlooked (which honestly I thought was super cute). Their chemistry and connection early on were really strong which had me fully involved in the story.
Around the 70% mark, though, the pacing started to feel rushed, and it took away a bit from the relationship development and chemistry that had been built so well at the start. I just feel like the transition could have been drawn out a bit longer allowing them to grow in this new unknown area rather than jumping straight to perfection.
Overall, I did enjoy the story, and I think it would make a great read to slip in between heavier books!
September 5, 2025
OMG this was such a great book.
Two people who see each other across a party. Instead of going for it, someone else calls dibs. For the next ten years Deacon wonders what his life could have been like.
Aspyn has just came to the realization that her "boyfriend" has been manipulating her for the past 10 years. She thought he had been cheating and many other things. Wasn't until she had actual proof that all the red flags have popped up. Now she has to survive on her own. She just wonders who gets custody of some of their friends. Little does she know, that some friends wants things to go farther,
Two people who see each other across a party. Instead of going for it, someone else calls dibs. For the next ten years Deacon wonders what his life could have been like.
Aspyn has just came to the realization that her "boyfriend" has been manipulating her for the past 10 years. She thought he had been cheating and many other things. Wasn't until she had actual proof that all the red flags have popped up. Now she has to survive on her own. She just wonders who gets custody of some of their friends. Little does she know, that some friends wants things to go farther,
August 22, 2025
This story had me hooked from the very first page. This story had everything; a toxic relationship, strong female friendships, and eventually a healthy, supportive, strong, loving relationship. Aspyn had gone through so much with Sean and he did so much to make her feel so small.
Deacon made her realize that she deserved so much better, before she finds how much he has loved her. For 10 years!
Their love, as well as their friendship, felt so genuine and true.
I cannot wait to read more from this author. What a great debut!
Deacon made her realize that she deserved so much better, before she finds how much he has loved her. For 10 years!
Their love, as well as their friendship, felt so genuine and true.
I cannot wait to read more from this author. What a great debut!
August 25, 2025
I finished this book in one sitting. 7 hours of reading, and I could NOT put this book down. Honestly, that should be review enough (she says jokingly)! In all reality, this book is captivating. There’s a lot of us out there that can relate to these words wholeheartedly. The pain, the revelation, the realization. The love, the connection, and the friendship….I felt every single part of this book in my bones. This was a beautiful read, and I can’t wait to read Melissa Senger’s next book. Five stars isn’t enough!
September 5, 2025
A fun love story about taking chances with “the one” Aspyn finds out her partner is cheating again so leves that toxic relationship after almost a decade. In steps the best friend who has secretly loved her since meeting. He is respectful, loving and compassionate. Deacon is completely different to Sean (Aspyn’s ex) and Aspyn needs all he has to offer. They are soul mates and each others forever. Well written and good banter between MCs and side characters. I was filled with emotion at times and giggling like a school girl at other times.
September 7, 2025
OMG for this being her first book it was amazing the main character characters. Oh yes, they were to die for. 10 years worth of friendship and they both finally admitted their feelings for each other. It just took that long to realize everything after she got rid of her narcissistic ex. Can I just say the way she puts him in his place and at his sister‘s wedding yeah. If you haven’t had a chance to read this book. I recommend reading it because it will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat. A might make you question yourself and your relationship.
September 13, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. It was a short and sweet romance, written with such charm and heart. The connection between the two main characters had been slowly building for a decade, and finally watching their love come to life was so satisfying. Even though it was a quick read, the pacing felt natural and emotionally fulfilling. The romance developed quickly, as expected with a shorter story, but it never felt rushed or forced. It was heartfelt, tender, and beautifully done from beginning to end. A perfect read for anyone who enjoys a cozy, well-paced love story
January 13, 2026
I really enjoyed Aspyn and Deacon's story. After wasting 10 years of her life on a man who never deserved her, now she is staying at his former friend, Deacon's house. And he has wanted her since the beginning, but unfortunately his ex friend Sean made the first move. I loved the forced proximity, and couldn't believe how long Deacon had to wait to reveal his true feelings. I was rooting for him the whole time. You just know Deacon is the kind of guy that will always be there for you, he was so patient with Aspyn and they made a terrific couple.
August 23, 2025
She had bad luck with her ex boyfriend, he was pretty horrible, but his best friend was the Total opposite, he was great, a nice guy and totally caring. During the read, you just wish her all the best. It was a slow swelling love story, both in love, but because of the ex, nobody wants to do the first move. It was hard for her to trust again, after a pathological liar. All in all a nice little story.
September 10, 2025
Loved this book!! Aspyn goes on her goodbye Sean tour and finally is able to start living her life after 10 years with him. In the past 10 years, her life has been completely controlled and she is now living life on her terms after finding out Sean has been cheating on her. Aspyn moves in with Deacon and who is the antithesis of Sean and we see there relationship start. It was a great book to read and I look forward to reading more of Melissa Senger’s books soon!
September 22, 2025
Aspyn finally leaves a relationship where she didn't feel wanted anymore. Deacon (her longtime friend and her ex boyfriend's now ex best friend) swoops in and makes her feel better. This is top notch friends to lovers trope and I love it. He knows everything about her and always wanted her. Their chemistry is so good and I loved their relationship. It's a really great quick read and worth reading!
August 23, 2025
Oh my! This book had me hooked from the very first page! I read it in one sitting. I love Deacon! 💙 He is such a cinnamon roll type MMC. 💙 This friends to lovers story is written well for a debut novel. Swoon worthy kisses and great friends are some of the best things a girl can have!
💜 Aspyn and Deacon forever! 💜
Thank you to Melissa Sanger for an advanced reader copy of this book.
💜 Aspyn and Deacon forever! 💜
Thank you to Melissa Sanger for an advanced reader copy of this book.
August 31, 2025
Arc review
Sorry for the late post not sure why I thought the review was due on September 10th.
This book was absolutely perfect I loved every second of it. The characters were amazing the plot was great , the world building around it all was absolutely incredible, the writing style was also lovely it didn’t feel rushed or to slow all around Amazing read
Sorry for the late post not sure why I thought the review was due on September 10th.
This book was absolutely perfect I loved every second of it. The characters were amazing the plot was great , the world building around it all was absolutely incredible, the writing style was also lovely it didn’t feel rushed or to slow all around Amazing read
September 3, 2025
Great book. Very well-written. Heartfelt story about a young woman who having both a best friend of 10 years and a lover of 10 years. Not knowing that her life is about to change when she discovers her lover may not be the perfect mate she thought he was. Then realizing that there were much better options and had been for the whole 10 years.
August 18, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes especially if the guy is the one lining for the MFC. This book was well written with a great storyline. I definitely recommend reading.
August 24, 2025
Perfect escape romance
This book is the perfect feel good romance you want with a touch of banter and a lot of spice! I love Deacon — swoon worthy book boyfriend! I can’t wait for many more books from Melissa !
This book is the perfect feel good romance you want with a touch of banter and a lot of spice! I love Deacon — swoon worthy book boyfriend! I can’t wait for many more books from Melissa !
August 24, 2025
This book was so good, likeable characters, a good plot with some spice thrown in there, a satisfying ending, and paced well. I loved the MMCs protectiveness and freindship with the FMC. If your looking for a quick and easy read with some spice and a friend's to lovers theme check this one out.
September 30, 2025
I liked it, and I really think this could have gone from "good" to "great" but there was something TOO clean about it.
It was well written, and a good read. Would recommend if you're looking for something quick, cute and easy with a very clean happily ever after.
It was well written, and a good read. Would recommend if you're looking for something quick, cute and easy with a very clean happily ever after.
August 17, 2025
I had the chance to read an ARC of Dibs and wow—this book hooked me from the very first chapter.
Flirty banter and chemistry that jumps off the page. A fun, swoony read you won’t want to put down!
Flirty banter and chemistry that jumps off the page. A fun, swoony read you won’t want to put down!
September 18, 2025
Aspen and Deacon’s story was good. It’s a fun, heartwarming, friends to lovers romance. I enjoyed the banter. The plot was well written and the characters were likable. Good read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews