Agree to be on the Married in the Wild survival reality show? Check. Collect a paycheck that’s enough to help with my mom’s medical bills? Check. Get married? Um… Check?
Enter Bennett Forrester.
My best friend’s older brother is gorgeous, a huge flirt, and always in the wrong place at the right time when it comes to catching me in my most humiliating moments. So I’m not surprised that he's there when my wedding falls apart just as the cameras are showing up.
I am surprised when he offers to marry me instead.
Now we’re in the wilderness, challenging everything nature—and a ratings-hungry producer—throws at us, all while pretending to be madly in love for the cameras. Piece of cake. (What I wouldn’t give for cake out here.)
Okay, this is the hardest thing I’ve ever done.
Especially with Bennett looking at me in a way he never has before. And his touch lighting a fire in me I’ve never felt before. He has no idea what he’s doing to me.
I just have to remember it’s all for the cameras. He’s completely off-limits.
I cannot fall for my husband.
Because this show is going to end eventually (one way or another), and I won’t let my heart be broken again.
Charlie and her Sweet Escape is a closed-door, best friend’s older brother, marriage of convenience romcom.
The moment this book arrived, I dug in and could not put it down! And wow...5 stars all the way! If you like best friend's brother, marriage of convenience, forced proximity, and add in a show with cameras filming it all... yep! LOVED IT!
Charlie is all set to marry Greg, but with her family's financial troubles, she decides they’ll go on a reality show and win money to help them. When things fall through with Greg, Bennett, her best friend’s brother (and her close friend), offers to marry her and go on the show with her instead. The agreement benefits them both: he needs the funds for his business, she needs them for her family.
But ...they’ll have to REALLY marry to enter, and they’ve only ever been friends. And a reality show with cameras rolling on the newlyweds all the time! Should be interesting. But the show itself may not be the only challenge. There’s also the confusing, growing feelings between the two of them, and the question of whether either of them is bold enough to speak up about the shift in their hearts. What happens when the show is over and the marriage is no longer needed?
Bennett had given up on love for years. Charlie had just left a broken engagement. Neither of them could really be thinking about love again so soon... could they?! Charlie's always only ever been Rosie's friend could she be more to him?!
The tension! The challenges! Charlie’s journals, the siblings, the backstories...I just loved this story! I was rooting for Charlie and Bennett the whole time from the very beginning!
*Steamy kisses, innuendo, closed-door.*
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Plot- Best plot idea ever. I pretty much have zero interest in watching TV, but really enjoyed watching Alone a couple years ago, so that says something. This plot was a lot of fun. And what a creative way to employ the forced proximity, marriage of convenience, and only one bed tropes! Pure genius.
Characters- I really liked Charlie.
But at first I was skeptical… I mean, she seemed super inconsiderate at the beginning of the book when she blew off her future MIL’s dinner party that was in her honor even though she knew it had been planned for months, it meant a lot to her fiancé as well as his mom, and all the guests were waiting dinner on her. I know the author meant for us to think she was the misunderstood victim that had no alternative, but honestly, I just thought she acted very inconsiderate and dismissive. She had other options. I found it very ironic that when he treated her that same way in the subsequent chapter, it was deemed unforgivable. He ditched her bc he had a work mtg. She basically repeated what he had said to her earlier when she said, “This means a lot to me, Greg.” He chose not to respect her just like she chose not to respect him earlier. When her best friend said, “This is important to you, and he’s blowing it off,” I was surprised at the hypocrisy of it all.
I’m obvs not saying I liked Greg, bc I def didn’t. Once that whole Greg section was over, I LOVED the book and I really liked the FMC, Charlie.
The MMC, Bennett was the sweetest. I absolutely loved him.
Romance- Very sweet romance. It was a slow burn with medium chemistry. I thought the chemistry had a lot more potential that wasn’t capitalized on, but I still really enjoyed it! Their banter was a lot of fun.
Writing - Good writing. Especially when it came to portraying their complicated emotions. Well done.
4.5 stars rounding up.
Content-
Language- no swearing Spice- some kissing. No mentions of sex (there is some allusion to a married couple making love). Clean. (Not “steamy clean.”) Violence- no Substance abuse- no. Cover- it’s okay POV- dual POV, first person Cliffhanger- No. but it’s also not entirely a standalone. Well, technically it is, but I haven’t read the Enchanted Forresters books and I definitely felt like I needed to have read them first for background that was constantly being alluded to. This ought to be labeled as Enchanted Forresters #4 (it currently is not). I def plan to go back and read the rest of the series! Format- KU
This story was so sweet, funny, and romantic. I loved it from beginning to end!
There were so many lovely tender moments, as well as ones that had me laughing out loud. The flirty banter and romantic tension between Charlie and Bennett was fantastic.
I loved how protective Bennett was of Charlie, and how they helped each other grow and heal. They were perfect for each other.
As with the previous book, the family chats between the Forrester siblings was so funny and a favorite part of the book. I love this family and the bond between them.
This story was absolutely wonderful, and one I highly recommend for anyone who loves sweet romcoms with lovable characters, and plenty of heart and humor.
It’s the third book in the series, but can be read as a standalone.
Charlie and Her Sweet Escape by: @kayleebaldwinbooks
••I give 4.5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
~Agree to be on the Married in the Wild survival reality show? Check. Collect a paycheck that’s enough to help with my mom’s medical bills? Check. Get married? Um... Check?
-Charlie and Her Secret Escape, is a delightful closed-door rom com that’s blended wonderfully with a marriage of convenience, best friend’s older brother and forced proximity, and also, adventure with a survival reality show. This story grabbed my attention straight from the start! I was hooked along for a great adventure that includes tension, oh so many challenges, and with fun humor. I thoroughly enjoyed this story that is able to gracefully balance both sweet romance and tender emotional depth so well. There are so many feels to this story. It was watching endearing characters navigate the wilderness and feelings with challenges, that had my heart. Seeing them find joy and dear belonging along the way was so tender and heartwarming. I couldn’t help cheer for this to happen because being loved and accepted for who one is, is what it’s all about. Really though, it’s the love, heart, second chances, and humor that is engrained within the pages, makes this story worth the read!🙌🏻
“I didn’t get what I thought I wanted, but I got something even better than I could have imagined.”
“Loving Charlie was instinct.”
•Content: neglectful parent (past), parent death (past), toxic romantic relationship resulting in break up(on page), mild innuendo, kissing, fade to black with a married couple. Closed-door!
“Charlie doesn’t give up on people. On animals. On anything. She is the most likable person l’ve ever met in my life. Your viewers will fall in love with her immediately, just like I did.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“What consumed me, though, was the undeniable sense of belonging I felt while wrapped up in Bennett.”
#charlieandhersweetescape
“Loving Charlie was instinct.”
#kayleebaldwinbooks
“Wherever I am, there’s always a place for you by my side.”
Rating: 5/5 I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
This book delivers so many of my favorite tropes—marriage of convenience, best friend’s brother, forced proximity, small-town charm, emotional depth, and even adorable rescue animals. From the very first chapter, Kaylee Baldwin blends humor, heart, and healing into a story that’s both entertaining and deeply relatable.
In this story, we follow Charlie and Bennett on a journey filled with self-discovery, trust, and unexpected romance. Charlie is engaged to Greg, her high-school sweetheart, and is convinced she’s living the life she’s always dreamed of. But as cracks begin to show in her relationship, she slowly realizes how much she’s shrunk herself to fit into someone else’s version of love. Bennett, meanwhile, has built a quiet life doing what he loves—complete with his cabin, his family, and a predictable peace. That is, until he sees how Greg treats Charlie and realizes he can’t just stand by. After all, his sister would kill him if he didn’t help her best friend… not that he has feelings for Charlie or anything.
“Steady. That was the perfect word to describe Bennett. I could think of a few more S-words… Sexy, Smart, Serious, Scrumptious.”
This closed-door, sweet, cozy romance will have you laughing one moment and wiping away tears the next. Charlie’s journey especially resonated with me—her struggle with not feeling “enough,” with shrinking herself to keep the peace, felt so real. Watching her breakthrough those emotional barriers, reclaiming her confidence, and step into a healthier, stronger version of herself was incredibly rewarding. Bennett’s unwavering support (and the dual POV) made their connection feel even richer and more believable.
The “marriage of convenience” element is handled exceptionally well. It feels grounded, natural, and genuinely possible—two longtime friends who slowly begin seeing each other in a new light. Throw in a wilderness-based reality TV show, constant cameras, unpredictable challenges, and the pressure of surviving together, and their slow-burn chemistry becomes absolutely irresistible. The tension? Off the charts. The protective moments? Adorable. emotional growth? Beautifully done.
I’ve loved every book featuring the Forrester siblings, and this installment is no exception. While it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the whole series—you won’t want to miss any of it.
I want to thank Kaylee Baldwin for the opportunity to review this book.
Ahhh!!! I just read and loved Charlie and her Sweet Escape!
Charlie is two weeks away from marrying her longtime boyfriend, Greg. In order to help pay off her mom’s medical debt, she applies for her and Greg to be on the reality show Marriage in the Wild. When Greg misses the interview, her best friend‘s brother Bennett steps in. And when their engagement later falls apart, Bennett agrees to a marriage of convenience to help Charlie go on the show and hopefully win the money!
I actually love a marriage convenience trope and this one was so fun! I love the history that Charlie and Bennett have and her journal entries highlighting so many fun memories of him! I loved the chemistry between these two and the forced proximity definitely helped to level that up! Bennett was so sweet and protective and they definitely made a power team while living in the wilderness! I was rooting for them the whole time and you will be, too!!
Favorite quotes:
“Talking to Charlie was like sailing on the perfect day. Effortless and exhilarating at the same time.”
“What would those pretty lips taste like? Our kiss yesterday had been too chaste, too quick, to tell. The temptation to see was nearly overwhelming. And like a bucket of ice water being dumped over me. Wondering about kissing Charlie? Not okay. Actually debating trying it? Criminal. Creepy. Intriguing.”
“I’m so lost in my thoughts I didn’t hear Bennett’s footsteps behind me, until I felt his cool lips brush my hot cheek. “Hey, baby.” My stomach flipped, even though I’d always hated the pet name baby. Turned out, I didn’t hate almost anything when Bennett was saying it.”
Ahhh! I was anticipating this book so much but couldn’t have expected the ride it took me on. I adored Bennett and Charlie so much. Their sweet friendship was so fun. They got along seamlessly, which meant they were perfect characters to go on a life in the wild tv show together.
The twist had cliffhangers that left me turning the pages as fast as I could and gasping at the end of each chapter. I was giddy and excited for Charlie and Bennett as they fought for each other. Seriously a roller coaster.
Favorite parts: -I have to mention Rosie-she’s hilarious and such a schemer. If you know, you know. If not, go read this series! -Charlie’s sweet heart. I loved how she rescued animals and was just the animal whisperer. She deserved all the love in the best ways. -Bennett- he was such a solid person. His proposal to Charlie was so funny. -how well Charlie and Bennett knew each other, but how well they got to know each other on the show. -their chemistry! Especially once they were both aware of how the other felt. -I also applauded Bennett for the reason he spent his wedding night in jail, actions were justified!
Favorite quotes: “Charlie doesn’t give up on people. On animals. On anything. She is the most likable person I’ve ever met in my life. Your viewers will fall in love with her immediately, just like I did.”
What consumed me, though, was the undeniable sense of belonging I felt while wrapped up in Bennett.
Loving Charlie was instinct.
A kiss from Bennett felt more amazing than the most romantic moments with Greg. What in the world was I supposed to do with that realization? The good (and bad) news was that I had plenty of time out here to ponder it.
“I’d go to the ends of the earth for you, Charlie.”
Content: fade to black with a married couple, neglectful parent (past), parent death (past), toxic romantic relationship resulting in break up(on page)
I devoured Charlie’s Sweet Escape in one sitting, curled up under my electric blanket—and it was the perfect companion for a cosy evening. From the very first chapter, I was rooting for Charlie. Her decision to walk away from toxic Greg felt empowering and set the tone for a story that balances emotional depth with heart-fluttering romance.
Charlie and Bennett’s friendship is beautifully drawn, and their marriage of convenience unfolds with believable motives and tender nuance. Watching them navigate the wilderness—and their feelings—was pure joy. The setting added a fresh, adventurous twist without ever pulling the story away from its romantic core. Even as the characters wrestled with deeper issues, the swooning stayed front and centre.
I didn’t find the plot predictable, which made the journey all the more satisfying. Kaylee Baldwin’s pacing kept me turning pages, and her voice is one I’ll definitely be seeking out again. This was my first read from her, but it won’t be my last!
I SO enjoyed this sweet and funny story! A friend recommended Charlie and Her Sweet Escape and I loved it!
Real and lovable main characters, except for Greg. He won't take time away from work for an interview that is important for Charlie. It's for a wilderness reality show after they get married. Charlie's best friend Rosie convinces her brother Bennett to do the interview.
Charlie begins to see how Greg has been treating her. "How could so many people I love not love him?"
"Marry Bennett. Bennett Forrester. It wasn’t like I’d never considered the possibility before—entire journal pages had been dedicated to doodling Charlotte Forrester with hearts all around it. But that was years ago."
Absolutely delightful romantic comedy with heart and depth. I enjoyed every moment of it!
Pleasantly surprised! While going over the Swoony Awards this one kept popping out at me so I decided to download the sample last night. I ended up not being able to put it down, "just one more chapter" and before I knew it I had finished the whole thing! I liked the characters and storyline, I occasionally watch the show Alone and I thought this story had a fun twist on that having a newlywed couple compete. It would have been fun to see them do more challenges or whatever, but overall I just thought it was a great book. I'd definitely recommend it and would read it again!
Fake dating is my favorite trope & in the words of a good friend, "marriage of convenience is just extreme fake dating."
Charlie's character growth throughout this book was SO heartwarming & relatable. I felt her emotions so personally & appreciated her realization that she is easy to love.
Bennett.... tha heck can I even say?!?! BENNETT FORRESTER IS THE BEST MMC.. yup I said that. I think I highlighted everything Ben said (except those awful nicknames, iykyk🤪). He also had a lot of character growth & I loved the closeness of all the Forrester siblings.
Also.... that epilogue 👁️👄👁️ will I get to know about Jules?!?! & the BONUS epilogue?! CUTE AS EVERRRRRRRR.
I cannot wait to read the rest of the Forrester sibling books. I'm actually going immediately to KU 🏃♀️💨
Thank you so so so much to Kaylee Baldwin for the ARC of Charlie & Her Sweet Escape 🫶🏻
Charlie has found the answer on how to pay her mother's medical bills. Signing her and her fiance, Greg, up for the Married in the Wild reality show, she is determined they will win the huge cash prize! When Greg dumps her, Charlie is left on her own with no option but to pull out of the show. Until her brother's best friend, Bennett, offers to marry her instead. As the two maneuver the survival tasks, they find themselves getting close but the marriage is just fake, right?
As the title suggests - what a sweet read this was! Bennett is everything a girl could want and Charlie having her friendship with him prior, really cemented their relationship as they explored what more they could have. The survival tasks were so fun to read about especially the way the two stuck to their guns and worked together on the last task. If you're after a cute romcom with a swoony male lead, you've got it in this book.
Charlie and Ben are best friend’s brother, friends to more, marriage of convenience/fake relationship goals. But seriously, their history, his protectiveness, the fun twist of being on a survival tv show (hello, forced proximity!), and the whole ending were unique, fun, and oh, so good. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
When her wedding falls apart, Charlie is shocked when her best friend’s older brother, Bennett, impulsively offers to marry her instead. Now trapped in the wilderness for a reality show, they must pretend to be in love while navigating the forces of nature...and their undeniable attraction. Despite her growing feelings for Bennett, Charlie is determined to protect her heart knowing that once the cameras stop rolling, their fake marriage will come to an end.
What you'll love: marriage of convenience best friend's brother dual pov reality show forced proximity one sleeping bag protective hero flashbacks sibling group chats so much heart!! THE KISSES! perfectly perfect ending
My heart is a puddle of happiness! This story is so adorably sweet in every way!! I was smitten with Charlie and Bennett from the very first scene!
Their adventure filming Married in the Wild was, well, a wild ride! Full of tender moments, crazy mishaps, flirty banter, laugh out loud scenes, romantic tension, and a kiss that is what dreams are made of, I loved every minute of it. Bennett was so protective but Charlie took care of him too (insert all the teary eye emojis here!) Even though much of the book focuses just on the two of them alone, the story never felt lacking! Both had room to grow and heal and I love how they helped each other through that. The twist at the had me turning pages like the book was going to catch on fire but oh, that ending! They really were so perfect together.
The Forrester siblings are some of my favorite characters ever and I loved all their sibling chats! Can they just adopt me, please? This is the third book in the series (plus a novella) and can easily be read as a standalone though trust me, you will want to pick up the other books too!
If you love sweet romcoms with swoony male heroes, couples that work together to overcome, and adventures full of humor and heart, this one will completely steal your heart! I cannot wait to re-read and experience this one all over again!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
“All I’d wanted my entire life was to belong.” Pg 126
“I guess life was like that, though. How many times did I wish I could teleport past the hard things and go right to where it was easy and calm? But I wouldn’t want to miss the good experiences that were folded in with the bad.” Pg 245-246
“I had found where I belonged.” Pg 257
“Loving someone is being willing to risk everything.” Pg 295
Thank you, Kaylee Baldwin, for the opportunity to get an advance copy of Charlie and Her Sweet Escape.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it.
Charlie is about to get married to Greg. In an effort to try and find ways to help her mom pay off her medical bills, she signs them up to be considered for the reality TV show Married in the Wild. However, drama ensues, and she ends up marrying Bennett, her best friend’s brother, and they are whisked away to Canada as candidates on the show.
This is a closed door, sweet cozy romance that has you laughing one moment, swooning the next, and wishing you could reach through the pages to slap a character and hug the others. This book can be read as a standalone, however, I would suggest reading the other books in the Enchanted Forresters series as this book does reference events that happen in the other books.
Throughout the book, both Bennett and Charlie really want nothing more than to find their sense of belonging. Both struggle with past events and hurts that has them acting cautiously with their feelings and with each other’s feelings. Baldwin does a masterful job of weaving the story where you find yourself relating to the characters. As hard as it is to remember, one moral of this story is never let someone else make you feel small or that you have to change to belong. We all deserve the best. So, Shine Bright!
While we do get a HEA, be warned, the end of the book is kind of a cliff hanger for the next Forrester sibling! Which I can’t wait to read!
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
This romance has it all from a marriage of convenience, best friend's brother and forced proximity with the added adventure of a survival reality show.
Charlie is engaged to be married to Greg, the man she has dated since high school. Things have changed in their relationship, and she is not sure what to think of the new Greg. However, they are days away from being married, and she will finally attain her dream of living in a place she only dreamt of before.
What can I say about Greg? He is real treat, a toxic treat. His nose is so high in the air that if it rained he would drown. His family's noses are even higher in the air. I could see immediately that Charlie was not going to fit in with this family.
Charlie loves all creatures, great and small. She never saw an animal she would not rescue. She also loves her mother with all of her heart and soul, and would do anything for her. So much so that she has entered her and Greg into a survival reality show called Married In The Wild so she can use the prize money to help her mom pay medical bills.
Let's just say a disastrous wedding shower involving a rescued dog finally shows Charlie the handwriting on the wall. She has no husband, which means no reality show and no prize money. Enter her best friend's brother, Bennett Forrester, who agrees to a fake marriage so they can compete. This is not going to be easy. You see Bennett is her Kryptonite, whether she will admit it or not.
I adored everything about this book from the main characters, as well as Bennett's fantastic family to the adventures in the wild. Charlie is a brave, focused woman who is determined to make it through this adventure. The forced proximity is going to bring all of those old feelings bubbling back to the surface. I found myself sighing while also cheering for these two to get out of their own way and realize what they need is right in front of them and has been in all along.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I adored everything about Kaylee Baldwin’s latest release Charlie and her Sweet Escape. From the Forrester siblings’ group texts to Charlie’s desire to help her mom to the Canadian wilderness survival setting to Charlie and Bennett’s hot chemistry, this book had me hooked from page one.
I loved Charlie and Bennett’s friendship and history. They were good friends who had each other’s backs. It was so fun to see all the flashbacks, especially the moments when Charlie admits to herself and the reader that she could easily fall for Bennett if she let herself. I loved how their friendship was sweet but also full of teasing and companionship.
I could not get enough of all the references to Charlie’s journal. They were hilarious, especially when Bennett catches a peek at her journal and sees a page dedicated to his abs, complete with a picture Charlie drew? Both of their reactions were so good. I also loved the journal excepts at the beginning of each chapter—it was so fun to see Charlie at different ages. The journal excepts also made me appreciate Charlie as a character even more. She was fabulous and I was so excited for her to finally get the happy ending she deserved.
Things to love: -best friend’s older brother -marriage of convenience -Bennett and Charlie -survival reality show -forced proximity -Charlie’s internal thoughts about Bennett -slow burn -long standing friendship -Bennett always being there for Charlie -serious banter and chemistry -great communication and trust
I could go on and on about this book. I laughed and teared up and swooned throughout the book. Baldwin did an amazing job of blending the funny, swoony elements of a romcom with the real emotional trials of life. It was so well done. The story doesn’t shy away from the difficulties of life, but those elements don’t overpower the fun elements you expect from a romcom. I love when a story is entertaining and has strong character growth and this book does both beautifully.
Thank you to the author for gifted copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
I was so happy that Charlie (Charlotte) got her story. Her best friend Rosie Forrester found her true love in Dylan, but now Charlie is headed down the wrong path with Greg, who berates sweet Charlie for everything.
Charlie has applied to the reality TV show Married in the Wild to help pay off her mom’s medical bills and debut, but when she and Greg call it quits days before the wedding, all her hopes fly out the window.
That is, until Bennett Forrester steps in. Charlie has had a crush on Bennett since she became best friends with his sister Rosie as a teenager. Although Bennett has always been a wonderful friend to her, getting married for a reality TV show is beyond the bounds of what a kind and caring friend would do.
Ahh, I loved Bennett. This man was flirty, yet caring and protective, and he even took in Charlie’s rescue dog when Greg gave her an ultimatum. The tension between Charlie and Bennett was intense - sometimes funny as they tried to downplay their true feelings. I loved how we got to know them better, especially on the show. I did not see that twist coming; it was a somewhat dirty play by the show, if you ask me. Still, it all led to a swoony HEA ending.
I was so happy to be back among the Forrester siblings. Their sibling chat group is hilarious and makes me envious that my brothers and I aren’t close like this family. But that epilogue! I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next Forrester sibling.
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐥𝐥 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝: 💕Best friend’s brother 🎬She’s had a crush on him ⛺He would do anything for her 💕Emotional family issues 🎬Marriage of Convenience ⛺One sleeping bag 💕Reality wilderness survival show for couples 🎬Adorable rescue dogs ⛺Sibling group chats
4.5⭐️
Thank you @kayleebaldwinbooks for this #gifted ebook.
You know how a reality show has this insane ability to absolutely pull you in? Like the drama and tension is so strong that, even if you never intended to watch it in the first place, you find yourself unable to look away wondering how it is all going to play out? This is exactly how this book felt, especially towards the end. Unlike my feelings on reality shows (I'm not a fan), I actually was excited to read this one. Two of my favorites- marriage of convenience and best friend's brother... what could be better? Still, I did not expect this story to draw me in quite like it did! Right from the start, Bennett and Charlie had me smiling with their hilarious banter. Seriously, it was impossible not to love these two... and that chemistry? My goodness! Their story had me laughing out loud at so many moments... but it was also really tender and emotional too. And then you throw in the reality TV drama too!? The show they were participating in, Married in the Wild, was known for its twists... and boy, was this an exciting one! It kept me at the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next... and I loved every single minute of it! I have enjoyed every book that I have read from Kaylee Baldwin in the past, but this one might just be a new favorite!
Charlie and Her Sweet Escape is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Enchanted Forresters series, and while you may have a better understanding of some of the family dynamics if you've read the previous books, I do think this could be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Bennett seems like an unlikely hero at first: burnt by a marriage rejection many years ago, he has become a bit of a recluse, hiding not only from society but also physically in his appearance. The only person that seems to be able to pull him out is Charlie, his sister Rosie's best friend. Charlie is quite an accomplished young woman, yet her fiancee Greg has diminished her to the point that she no longer believes in herself. When Charlie finds herself without a husband when she calls off the wedding right before they are supposed to participate in a reality show, Bennett steps in and offers to marry her and help her not only fulfill her contract obligations to the show but attempt to win the grand prize to help her mom pay off her medical debt. They begin the competition as friends but the more time they spend together and as they sacrifice for each other as the challenges get more difficult, their friendship becomes more, valuable lessons are learned and what they felt not only about each other but most importantly themselves begins to morphe into a really sweet love story. Seeing Charlie's journal entries from earlier years gives us an understanding of why she thinks the way she does and the Forrester Siblings chat is a riot to read! I could not put this book down and read it in just a couple of nights. 10/10!
“I stood by my statement that I loved Charlie. Or course I did. Everyone did. Charlie was irresistibly lovable.”
The Forrester family is an absolute favorite of mine and I have been eagerly awaiting this story. Let me just say–it beat my wildest expectations! Not only is it a best friend’s brother romance, but it’s a marriage of convenience, done in a unique and utterly believable way.
“I could marry Bennett Forrester. Way, way too easily.”
Charlie is the sweetest and a total animal lover. Bennett is a bit of a recluse, but fiercely loyal to those he cares about. I loved the snippets of Charlie’s journal entries, mingled with the very tangible and new feelings of attraction, but throw all of that into the wilds of Canada for a reality TV show? Yes!
I couldn’t stop laughing and smiling, even as my heart melted over the hardships each of these characters have faced in life. Their vulnerability and connection, mixed with their chemistry and banter, stamped this one deep into my heart. I loved every minute spent with these wonderful characters in their adventurous situation, complete with unexpected twists. Love, Love, LOVE!
Content: moments of peril; mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
What do you do when your fiancé breaks up with you shortly before the wedding and puts you in a tight spot with a reality tv show contract? You marry your best friend's older brother, of course! Has Charlie Savage had a long-standing crush on Bennett? You betcha. Has she convinced herself she's over it? Almost. But being married to Bennett while on Married In The Wild is testing every bit of her resolve to not crush on her husband.
Bennett Forrester has cared for his little sister's best friend, but after a bad breakup and declined proposal, he's kind of hidden himself away. The only person he pulls himself out for is Charlie. Watching her light go out over her time dating Greg hurts him deeply, but all he can do is support Charlie. But when Greg and Charlie split, and she is left in a vulnerable position emotionally and contractually, is his support willing to go as far as marriage? And when that marriage is tested on national television, will he realize that Charlie means so much more to him than he ever thought?
Kaylee Baldwin nails it again with the Forrester siblings! Bennett and Charlie are SO sweet, and seeing him care so deeply for her and get her back to her truest self is so beautifully done. 4.5⭐️
I love the Forrester siblings and I was so excited to get Bennett’s story and Charlie’s. This marriage of convenience had a fun twist on it, as they were competing on a reality show called In the Wild as newlyweds. I’m loving the MOC’s lately.
No one will tell Charlie, but everyone hates her high school boyfriend turned fiancé. When she finally realizes that she can’t handle marrying him, she has to find something else so she doesn’t lose her spot on In the Wild. Bennett jumps in and it's a delightful marriage of convenience, with those abs too.
My favorite part of this book was all the little journal entries from Charlie throughout the years that give you background about these two. Bennett is a giver and wants to make everyone happy. He’s a good brother and a good friend, he doesn’t realize that he’s already halfway in love with Charlie. Charlie wants to be on the show and win the money for her mom.
So what really happens In the Wild? Read and find out!
Entries The Forester siblings Savage family Ben’s Abs Sawing wood One sleeping bag Unrequited crush Wedding night arrest Calves All the little moments
O MY GOODNESS! This was just the book I needed! Don't get me wrong I’ve read some fabulous books recently, but the last few were just a little more on the dark and heavy side! I needed an uplifting romcom and Kaylee Baldwin totally delivered! In this adorable book, Charlie enters a wilderness reality show for married couples to help pay her mom’s medical bills… only for her and her fiancée to break things off at the last minute! But never fear! In enters the O so handsome Bennett! Her best friend’s older brother, and someone she probably shouldn’t enter into a fake marriage with! Their “marriage of convenience” in the wild is full of sweet moments, funny chaos, and the kind of chemistry that just makes you want to kick your feet. Charlie is lovable and so big hearted, Bennett is more quiet, rugged, plus definitely swoony, and together they’re just… sigh… 😍 If you love the best friend’s brother, forced proximity, and a cozy ‘one sleeping bag’ trope this one is a super fun escape! Thank you so much to Kaylee for the opportunity to read her book, all thoughts and opinions are me own!
I was so glad that Charlie got her own book. Reading Rosie and the Beast Next Door made me sure that she needed a different story than the one she was living. Her fiancé was not a nice person. And somehow, she couldn't see it.
Charlie is still engaged to him at the beginning of the book. The two of them are supposed to be on Married in the Wild, a survival reality show right after their wedding, but... Charlie realizes quite quickly in this book that she can't marry him. Can't live the life that he is trying to make her live. And she breaks things off.
And that's when she marries Bennett Forester. A marriage of convenience for both of them. But...Charlie has been in love with Bennett for a very long time. I loved that the reader gets to read her journal entries from when she was in high school and discovered that.
I loved the way these two work together in the wild. There are many challenges through their time. Each time, they figure it out. I love watching both of them as they wake up to their feelings for each other. But will it be enough?
I loved this story! I can't wait for more by this author.
I received an ARC of Charlie and Her Sweet Escape by Kaylee Baldwin, and I’m so glad I got to dive into this one ahead of release day. Everything about it felt fresh, fun, and heartfelt.
The premise hooked me right away — reality‐TV survival show and a marriage‐of‐convenience twist? Yes, please. Baldwin juggles humor, tension, and romance in a way that kept me turning pages.
Charlie is a delight: relatable, self-doubting but brave; her internal dialogue had me rooting for her from the first scene. Bennett (best friend’s older brother!) is exactly the kind of slow-burn hero who surprises you.
The dynamic between Charlie and Bennett sizzled with chemistry (kisses-only), but it also had emotional weight. There were tender moments that felt earned rather than forced.
Charlie and Her Sweet Escape made me laugh and made me swoon. If you’re into contemporary romance with humor, a touch of drama, and a fake-for-TV twist, this is one to pick up! I’ll be looking forward to what Kaylee Baldwin does next.
Another ARC that I finished in just two days! The Forrester series has officially become one of my all-time favorites. Every book amazes me — each sibling is so different, and their love stories feel perfectly suited to who they are.
We’ve seen glimpses of Charlie and Bennett throughout the series, but getting to watch their story unfold was everything I hoped for and more. Both carry their own pasts and struggles, but when they finally let each other in, that vulnerability opens the door for something truly beautiful. (And yes — I’m a total sucker for a marriage of convenience!)
Sure, the reality TV show setup might sound a little unrealistic, but that’s one of the things I love about this series. Each story has its own bit of magic — from Lia, who’s basically Taylor Swift, to Dylan, the famous hockey player, and now Charlie and Bennett’s unforgettable adventure. The sibling group chats, the teasing, the cameos from past couples — it’s all so perfectly done.
Did I cry? Absolutely. But that’s how I know a story really hit home. Every single Forrester book has done that for me — they’re all five-star reads in my heart.
Watching Charlie and Bennett’s relationship grow — honest, real, and full of heart — was pure joy. There were plenty of laughs, swoons, and emotional moments that stayed with me long after I finished. I loved every second and highly recommend this entire series! 💛
I received an ARC of this book, but all opinions are my own.
This book was so intense, but in a really fun way. There were big emotional things and big nature things, but they were interwoven with beauty, romance, and humor that just draws you in. This is my favorite book by Kaylee Baldwin so far.
Charlie signs up with her fiancée for a wilderness reality show for married couples. When she finds herself without a groom, her best friend’s brother, Bennett, agrees to marry her and do the show. What follows is the aforementioned chaos, nature, and feelings that you will have to read for yourself.
Highlights: The wedding 🥰 Charlie’s grandma 😂 Charlie and Bennett taking care of each other
I love Charlie for seeing good in people. I love her care for animals and desire to help.
I love Bennett for his kindness and calm in chaos. I love that he has the ability to fix/make things and the willingness to do so.
“You’re all that is good in this world. All that I want.” This was an ARC, all feelings are my own.
I received an E-Arc of this book for my honest opinion! I really enjoyed this book, it was so much more adventurous than some other romance books you read! Friends to lovers, best friends brother, marriage of convenience, forced proximity, slight age gap, just some of the best tropes around 😍
Charlie and Her Sweet Escape is a closed door romantic comedy 👏🏼 In this story Charlie and Bennett find a lot of self discovery and how to trust again. To realize that there is more in life than just things and money, it’s about being with the person that you love. When Charlie decides she doesn’t want to marry her fiancé Greg anymore, Bennett willingly steps in to Marry her so she can still fulfill her promise of being on a TV show called “Married in the Wild”. Bennett is so selfless and always taking care of others, so Charlie wants to take care of him. This book took unexpected twists and turns throughout the whole story. Their resilience to survive in the wild had me anxious page after page!
What a fabulous marriage of convenience story! After getting a peek at the way Charlie's ex-fiancé treated her and comparing it to the way Bennett valued her, it was clear that Charlie had been with the wrong man for way too many years.
These two worked so well together out in the wild and I loved the romantic tension that brewed between them as they were in such close quarters and depending on each other so much. Having the chapter openers be snippets from Charlie's teenage journal was eye opening and helped to show that even though she was dating Greg for years, she was captivated by Bennett, but never thought he'd look at her as more than his younger sister's best friend.
These two were such a great match and I loved the tension between them. The moments when they began to give in to their feelings for each other were perfect. I loved this book from start to finish!