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Almost Friends
Brilliant plus-sized surgeon Auburn Fox believes people are most palatable when they're under general anesthesia. Humans are idiots (as a trauma doctor, she knows this to be fact) who do nothing but hurt each other. She refuses to let anyone close—other than Lily Thatcher, Aubrey's lifelong best friend. Sweet-as-pie and kind as the day is long, Lily has always been Aubrey’s exception. When Lily dies, leaving behind her six-month-old daughter, Rosie, Aubrey is determined to keep Lily's memory alive for Rosie and give the little girl all the love Lily would have. Even if it means being stuck in the orbit of Lily's husband, Damon Thatcher.
Damon made a horrendous first impression with Aubrey... then continued to drive that point home for three more years. And Aubrey has always believed in giving as good as she got. With Damon as the gatekeeper to Rosie, Aubrey suddenly has to play nice, and she'd be the first to admit that nice isn't her strong suit. But Damon is a necessary evil, and Aubrey can—and would—do anything for Lily.
Forced to team up for Rosie’s sake, Aubrey realizes that Damon isn't that bad. And prickly Aubrey is going to have to learn how to let people in if she wants to keep the people she loves.
Damon made a horrendous first impression with Aubrey... then continued to drive that point home for three more years. And Aubrey has always believed in giving as good as she got. With Damon as the gatekeeper to Rosie, Aubrey suddenly has to play nice, and she'd be the first to admit that nice isn't her strong suit. But Damon is a necessary evil, and Aubrey can—and would—do anything for Lily.
Forced to team up for Rosie’s sake, Aubrey realizes that Damon isn't that bad. And prickly Aubrey is going to have to learn how to let people in if she wants to keep the people she loves.
- GenresRomance
497 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 10, 2025
1 person is currently reading
4 people want to read
About the author
K.E. Hayes
1 book7 followersA native Californian, I call Rhode Island and New York home these days. I'm obsessed with both of my adopted states—no one does a party like New York, and don't get me started on coffee milk (aka ambrosia from heaven)—but a Pacific beach is still my peaceful place.
AFK, I drink my weight in coffee, kill plants in my garden, and renovate my 19th Century house via tiny baby steps. I also love taking my chaos demon (Violet the blue heeler) and cat in a dog costume (Tako the pug) on adventures around New England and Upstate New York. We especially enjoy hikes and beach days and finding local bookstores.
As K.E. Hayes, I write romance, upmarket fiction, chick lit, fantasy, mystery, sci fi, and contemporary fiction. I also publish new adult romance under a pseudonym.
AFK, I drink my weight in coffee, kill plants in my garden, and renovate my 19th Century house via tiny baby steps. I also love taking my chaos demon (Violet the blue heeler) and cat in a dog costume (Tako the pug) on adventures around New England and Upstate New York. We especially enjoy hikes and beach days and finding local bookstores.
As K.E. Hayes, I write romance, upmarket fiction, chick lit, fantasy, mystery, sci fi, and contemporary fiction. I also publish new adult romance under a pseudonym.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
November 19, 2025
If I could break the rules and give more than 5 stars, Almost Friends would be the book I fought for. A slow burn, in the very best ways, we follow our narrator, Aubrey, as she navigates grieving the loss of her best friend, her job as an emergency surgeon, and possibly falling in love with the last person she thinks she should. Aubrey isn’t a people person, so when Lily, her person dies, she’s floundering a bit. Was an emotional read in more ways than just the death of Lily. There are patient stories that end from good to badly, interactions with hospital personnel and the hierarchy within the system of doctors and nurses. Found family antics. Like watching ER or Grays Anatomy! Has a big page count but the pacing works so it doesn’t feel overly wordy. I’m extremely impressed and excited to keep watch of this author.
Thanks to BookSirens for this ARC, these opinions are my own.
Thanks to BookSirens for this ARC, these opinions are my own.
October 16, 2025
I received the ARC for Almost Friends and I was surprised by the story. I'm a sucker for second chance romance. It is written maturely and tackles sensitive issues in a very positive and well balanced way. The chemistry between Damon and Auburn was just ughhhhh.
The FMC, Auburn is a badass surgeon who tackles with horrors of life inside and outside the operation theatre. She is the perfect combo of grumpy and softy. Damon, MMC, is a single dad dealing with loss of his wife; Aubs' best friend and trying to move on with his grief. He made very bad first impression but I'd say he redeemed himself in the second part of the story.
The slow romance, secret glances and inner angst made it worth the read.
It is an emotional roller coaster and a must one time read!
The FMC, Auburn is a badass surgeon who tackles with horrors of life inside and outside the operation theatre. She is the perfect combo of grumpy and softy. Damon, MMC, is a single dad dealing with loss of his wife; Aubs' best friend and trying to move on with his grief. He made very bad first impression but I'd say he redeemed himself in the second part of the story.
The slow romance, secret glances and inner angst made it worth the read.
It is an emotional roller coaster and a must one time read!
September 22, 2025
The premise of this story sounded very entertaining. I love medical dramas on TV, so a story revolving around a doctor really intrigued me--throw in a slow burn romance, yes please.
This book takes us on a six year long journey of Dr. Aubrey Fox's life. We are able to easily track the six years because they are counted by the birthdays of Fox's goddaughter, Rosie. Rosie's mom, Lily, was Aubrey's bestie from childhood through adulthood until her passing. In the wake of Lily's death, Aubrey, due to proximity to Rosie, must get to know Damon more closely and decide if her first bad impressions of him are accurate.
With some heavy edits, this book would have improved significantly for me. There were SEVERAL characters to keep track of and way too many story lines to track, in my opinion. This book reached 623 pages! This would have been a five star read for me if we had saved half of it for a second book.
Despite its lack of brevity and a smattering of typos throughout, I still found myself laughing, crying, and feeling twitterpated all along the journey. It was like bingeing an entire medical drama and I really enjoyed it. Team Thatcher all the way.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC, it was a pleasure.
This book takes us on a six year long journey of Dr. Aubrey Fox's life. We are able to easily track the six years because they are counted by the birthdays of Fox's goddaughter, Rosie. Rosie's mom, Lily, was Aubrey's bestie from childhood through adulthood until her passing. In the wake of Lily's death, Aubrey, due to proximity to Rosie, must get to know Damon more closely and decide if her first bad impressions of him are accurate.
With some heavy edits, this book would have improved significantly for me. There were SEVERAL characters to keep track of and way too many story lines to track, in my opinion. This book reached 623 pages! This would have been a five star read for me if we had saved half of it for a second book.
Despite its lack of brevity and a smattering of typos throughout, I still found myself laughing, crying, and feeling twitterpated all along the journey. It was like bingeing an entire medical drama and I really enjoyed it. Team Thatcher all the way.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC, it was a pleasure.
September 13, 2025
This book was everything I never knew I needed. Enemies to lovers with a medical subplot similar to Grey’s Anatomy. The story covers multiple years, with a timeline that continuously and softly lands in a warm, familiar but evolved place. I did not want to put this down, and picked it up every time I had a free moment. The slow burn is totally worth it, concluding with a comprehensive and satisfying wrap up of every aspect I became so invested in.
November 11, 2025
This book instantly made my all time top 5 favorite books.
I was not prepared for how amazing and needed this book was.
Not gonna lie, it started off rough for me. I was not in a great mental space, and as a plus size reader, I was bracing for a bully romance after the first chapter. I almost didn't keep reading. Almost.
But I will forever be grateful I did.
Because this love story (it's not just a romance novel, this is a LOVE STORY) ... this is what I want my books to be. It's not a breeze through story, and it's got enough content to leave you satisfied but also wanting to read it again right as soon as you finish it. It's got yearning, and (un?)requited love, a grumpy sunshine combo that is too perfect for words, FOUND FAMILY, and the best slow burn ever.
I love that this is a multi-year story as well. I feel like so many authors don't play the long game and just slam a relationship into a year (or sometimes months), and the payoff that the multi-year format gives you in terms of developing that real relationship is absolutely top shelf.
None of the characters or side characters feel out of place, and they are so woven into the story that even the "O.L.D" was one that I didn't hate (which... for me and my absolute loathing of other lover drama). I felt like, in this book, it added a layer to the flavor of the story that made it that much better.
If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I absolutely would.
If you love shows like Grey's Anatomy, the Pitt, and Chicago Med, but also want cozy comfort vibes with a dash of drama and a splash of suspense ... YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was not prepared for how amazing and needed this book was.
Not gonna lie, it started off rough for me. I was not in a great mental space, and as a plus size reader, I was bracing for a bully romance after the first chapter. I almost didn't keep reading. Almost.
But I will forever be grateful I did.
Because this love story (it's not just a romance novel, this is a LOVE STORY) ... this is what I want my books to be. It's not a breeze through story, and it's got enough content to leave you satisfied but also wanting to read it again right as soon as you finish it. It's got yearning, and (un?)requited love, a grumpy sunshine combo that is too perfect for words, FOUND FAMILY, and the best slow burn ever.
I love that this is a multi-year story as well. I feel like so many authors don't play the long game and just slam a relationship into a year (or sometimes months), and the payoff that the multi-year format gives you in terms of developing that real relationship is absolutely top shelf.
None of the characters or side characters feel out of place, and they are so woven into the story that even the "O.L.D" was one that I didn't hate (which... for me and my absolute loathing of other lover drama). I felt like, in this book, it added a layer to the flavor of the story that made it that much better.
If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I absolutely would.
If you love shows like Grey's Anatomy, the Pitt, and Chicago Med, but also want cozy comfort vibes with a dash of drama and a splash of suspense ... YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An emotional, beautifully sharp slow-burn that cuts straight to the heart.
I devoured this book like a caffeine-fueled night shift read — one chapter turned into five, and before I knew it, I was completely lost in Auburn Fox’s world. She’s prickly, unapologetic, and gloriously human — the kind of heroine who doesn’t sugarcoat anything, yet somehow makes you ache for her every time she tries to protect her heart.
What I loved most was how layered this story is. It’s not just about grief or second chances — it’s about how love sneaks up on us when we’re too stubborn to believe we deserve it. The dynamic between Aubrey and Damon is fire and friction in all the best ways — from biting banter to the slow, quiet unraveling of their walls. And little Rosie? She ties it all together with heart-melting perfection.
The writing is sharp, witty, and full of emotional gut punches. One minute I was laughing at Aubrey’s brutal honesty, the next I was misty-eyed at the tenderness she didn’t know how to express. If you love flawed, fierce characters, tension that simmers until it breaks, and stories that remind you that healing can be just as messy as it is beautiful — this is your next obsession.
✨ Brilliantly written, emotionally rich, and impossible to put down. Five stars aren’t enough.
I devoured this book like a caffeine-fueled night shift read — one chapter turned into five, and before I knew it, I was completely lost in Auburn Fox’s world. She’s prickly, unapologetic, and gloriously human — the kind of heroine who doesn’t sugarcoat anything, yet somehow makes you ache for her every time she tries to protect her heart.
What I loved most was how layered this story is. It’s not just about grief or second chances — it’s about how love sneaks up on us when we’re too stubborn to believe we deserve it. The dynamic between Aubrey and Damon is fire and friction in all the best ways — from biting banter to the slow, quiet unraveling of their walls. And little Rosie? She ties it all together with heart-melting perfection.
The writing is sharp, witty, and full of emotional gut punches. One minute I was laughing at Aubrey’s brutal honesty, the next I was misty-eyed at the tenderness she didn’t know how to express. If you love flawed, fierce characters, tension that simmers until it breaks, and stories that remind you that healing can be just as messy as it is beautiful — this is your next obsession.
✨ Brilliantly written, emotionally rich, and impossible to put down. Five stars aren’t enough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2025
I loved Almost Friends! Nothing makes me feel smarter than following along a good medical drama. I love all the medical jargon and conditions and suspense. (Did this begin with watching General Hospital with my grandmother? And then Grey's Anatomy with mother? Then..I digress). I loved the drama and intrigue of Almost Friends. I can see it as an Apple TV mini-series already (Hello Sunshine, Reese? Here's one for you!)
Aubrey is a strong lead - she's a trauma surgeon with a tough-as-nails exterior. She's been in combat zones, served with Doctors Without Borders, and works harder than anyone to save her patients. Inside, she has a warm heart for her best friend Lily & her daughter, Rosie. But Lily's husband? Not so much.
When Lily dies, Aubrey is determined to keep Lily's memory alive for her sweet babe, Rosie. This required Aubrey to thaw her coldness towards Damien, and the two forge an unlikely bond while caring for Rosie. As the novel unfolds, more characters are introduced, and the two see each other for who they really are.
These are characters that feel real– you are rooting for them because you see their full stories, you get their humanity, and you just ache for them to have that MOMENT of realization with each other. Pick this one up - you won't regret it!
*I received an ARC and this review reflects all of my own opinions*
Aubrey is a strong lead - she's a trauma surgeon with a tough-as-nails exterior. She's been in combat zones, served with Doctors Without Borders, and works harder than anyone to save her patients. Inside, she has a warm heart for her best friend Lily & her daughter, Rosie. But Lily's husband? Not so much.
When Lily dies, Aubrey is determined to keep Lily's memory alive for her sweet babe, Rosie. This required Aubrey to thaw her coldness towards Damien, and the two forge an unlikely bond while caring for Rosie. As the novel unfolds, more characters are introduced, and the two see each other for who they really are.
These are characters that feel real– you are rooting for them because you see their full stories, you get their humanity, and you just ache for them to have that MOMENT of realization with each other. Pick this one up - you won't regret it!
*I received an ARC and this review reflects all of my own opinions*
November 11, 2025
4.5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️.✨️
I was VERY happily surprised at how much I LOVED the slow slow build up of Damon and Aubrey. I'm absolutely in love with the family circle that they built 😭💙 I cried several times knowing exactly the pain that Aubrey was feeling when it came to the loss of her best friend, especially when they leave behind a child. That situation was so so relatable that when I was reading from her times of grief and memories it made me think of my Rosie and how much I long for and miss her. I HATED Klaus! And was SO happy with the ending result with that situation! I loved watching how in the end Aubrey truly had transformed into a new person but she was able to appreciate who she was before and how all her life choices and relationships had led her to finding her happiness. And I loved the friendship and loyalty from everyone in their family circle. I loved how Damon wanted and pushed her to be open and have a circle because he knew she needed one even if she didn't know it yet. Just so much about this book that I loved. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was so happy to be chosen to read it before released! Definitely recommend for sure! And a huge bonus for me, no spice! Just sweet slow build up of a beautiful romance 🥰😭
I was VERY happily surprised at how much I LOVED the slow slow build up of Damon and Aubrey. I'm absolutely in love with the family circle that they built 😭💙 I cried several times knowing exactly the pain that Aubrey was feeling when it came to the loss of her best friend, especially when they leave behind a child. That situation was so so relatable that when I was reading from her times of grief and memories it made me think of my Rosie and how much I long for and miss her. I HATED Klaus! And was SO happy with the ending result with that situation! I loved watching how in the end Aubrey truly had transformed into a new person but she was able to appreciate who she was before and how all her life choices and relationships had led her to finding her happiness. And I loved the friendship and loyalty from everyone in their family circle. I loved how Damon wanted and pushed her to be open and have a circle because he knew she needed one even if she didn't know it yet. Just so much about this book that I loved. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was so happy to be chosen to read it before released! Definitely recommend for sure! And a huge bonus for me, no spice! Just sweet slow build up of a beautiful romance 🥰😭
October 8, 2025
I dont usually read closed door romances with little spice but the cover is kickass and the summary sounded intriguing. Let me tell you, I am a sucker for a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance that will make you laugh and cry and this book absolutely delivered! This is such a beautiful love story that spans the course of roughly six years. If you are looking for insta-love or a lot of spice this may not be your first choice but you should definitely give it a chance anyway. This book made me ugly cry in the best way, the bonding through mutual grief and coming together to co-parent. I also loved the plus-sized FMC representation and the medical storyline. The only thing that made it challenging at times (and this is a very minor note) is that due to the timeline spanning a six year window, sometimes the change of time frame in the story was difficult to note initially and I wouls have to reread small sections to make sure I understood the time difference. Overall a very beautiful story though. I HIGHLY recommend this book!
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.
November 17, 2025
4.5* ARC Review –Almost Friends and More
This story might be the epitome of a found family, but it also features many other tropes to enjoy. It focuses on Aubrey Fox, a trauma surgeon who doesn’t like people, but when the one exception, her best friend, Lily, dies, Aubrey takes her role as godmother to her daughter, Rosie, very seriously. From the beginning, Aubrey has not liked Lily’s husband, Damon, which is a challenge when trying to spend time with Rosie.
It is a long book, but it is well worth it. The author takes us through the evolution of Aubrey’s relationship not only with Damon but others at the hospital and outside friends. As Rosie grows up, so do all of their relationships. The author does a fantastic job of describing love and family, maybe because they tend to be speaking to a child, but it encompasses how they come together. The story made me laugh, cry, and think about it long after I finished. I appreciate receiving the ARC through Hidden Gems and would be interested in reading more by this author.
This story might be the epitome of a found family, but it also features many other tropes to enjoy. It focuses on Aubrey Fox, a trauma surgeon who doesn’t like people, but when the one exception, her best friend, Lily, dies, Aubrey takes her role as godmother to her daughter, Rosie, very seriously. From the beginning, Aubrey has not liked Lily’s husband, Damon, which is a challenge when trying to spend time with Rosie.
It is a long book, but it is well worth it. The author takes us through the evolution of Aubrey’s relationship not only with Damon but others at the hospital and outside friends. As Rosie grows up, so do all of their relationships. The author does a fantastic job of describing love and family, maybe because they tend to be speaking to a child, but it encompasses how they come together. The story made me laugh, cry, and think about it long after I finished. I appreciate receiving the ARC through Hidden Gems and would be interested in reading more by this author.
November 18, 2025
This book broke my heart then slowly stitched it back together.
It isn’t an insta -love situation, where everything works out and it’s love at first sight. The main characters have flaws and take blows, have to learn from their mistakes.
There are many things I loved about this book, but the main characters are my favorite. Rosie is sweet, Damon grows on you but the FMC Auburn will remain one my top list of FMCs permanently.
Aubrey (Auburn) is a larger size woman who has been bullied and believes she is too blunt, too large, not kind enough to beloved. I easily related to her being bullied, feeling like she is not what most people are looking for. But Auburn learned that the most important thing was how she saw herself, and what she could give to the world around her.
This woman’s story was one I needed to read, and I would enjoy returning to this book to read again in the future.
While there is a love story in these pages, it could be called a slow burn, with no spice.
Thank you Hidden Gems and K. E. Hayes for the arc, this review was voluntary.
It isn’t an insta -love situation, where everything works out and it’s love at first sight. The main characters have flaws and take blows, have to learn from their mistakes.
There are many things I loved about this book, but the main characters are my favorite. Rosie is sweet, Damon grows on you but the FMC Auburn will remain one my top list of FMCs permanently.
Aubrey (Auburn) is a larger size woman who has been bullied and believes she is too blunt, too large, not kind enough to beloved. I easily related to her being bullied, feeling like she is not what most people are looking for. But Auburn learned that the most important thing was how she saw herself, and what she could give to the world around her.
This woman’s story was one I needed to read, and I would enjoy returning to this book to read again in the future.
While there is a love story in these pages, it could be called a slow burn, with no spice.
Thank you Hidden Gems and K. E. Hayes for the arc, this review was voluntary.
October 20, 2025
💗 Almost Friends was such a fun and heartfelt read! I absolutely loved Aubury Fox since she’s such a badass and an easy character to root for. Grief played such a big role in this story, and I loved how Lily continued to guide Aub even after she passed. It added so much depth and emotion 🥹✨
I’ll admit, there were a few moments that were a bit hard to follow (some plot holes, time jumps, and a lot of characters introduced at once), but even with that, I really enjoyed this story. The found family element totally warmed my heart and little Rosie!! The cutest little button ever 🩵 Watching her relationship with Aub grow was so sweet.
If you love Grey’s Anatomy or The Resident, you’ll absolutely devour this book. The slow burn between Damon and Aub was so good, and even though the ending felt a little rushed, I still loved how everything tied together like a perfect bow 🎀
Huge thank you to K.E. Hayes for letting me ARC read this gem! 💙
I’ll admit, there were a few moments that were a bit hard to follow (some plot holes, time jumps, and a lot of characters introduced at once), but even with that, I really enjoyed this story. The found family element totally warmed my heart and little Rosie!! The cutest little button ever 🩵 Watching her relationship with Aub grow was so sweet.
If you love Grey’s Anatomy or The Resident, you’ll absolutely devour this book. The slow burn between Damon and Aub was so good, and even though the ending felt a little rushed, I still loved how everything tied together like a perfect bow 🎀
Huge thank you to K.E. Hayes for letting me ARC read this gem! 💙
September 30, 2025
I really enjoyed this book "Almost Friends". First time reading a book by this author and I really enjoyed it. I liked that this book isn't a short little thing that skimps on the details. Great writing, I didn't want to put this book down. The only reason I gave it a 4 stars- I would have done 4.999 was because of the swearing in the book. It is something that turns me off from books. This book had plenty of diversity in the book with the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I would highly recommend this book, and I can't wait to read more books by this author, K. E. Hayes. I truly didn't want to put this book down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I would highly recommend this book, and I can't wait to read more books by this author, K. E. Hayes. I truly didn't want to put this book down.
November 12, 2025
Almost Friends is a cute rom-com that made me tear up, laugh out loud, and feel happy when it all came together in the end. It kept my attention and turning the pages even though I had other things to do today! There was a lot of witty banter between all the different characters, but there was depth too. Their found family was sweet and loving, one you would want to be a part of. The romance is closed door and low spice, but that doesn’t mean there wasn’t chemistry.
All-in-all, this was a great book, and I will be keeping K.E. Hayes on my list of authors to make sure to read more from.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
All-in-all, this was a great book, and I will be keeping K.E. Hayes on my list of authors to make sure to read more from.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2025
This compelling story grabs you right from the beginning in this second chance romance about healing after a tragedy and falling in love when you least expect it. Aubrey and Damon's relationship took time to develop. Their first encounter wasn't a good one but for her best friend's Lily's sake she endured and when tragedy struck, she dug into herself and tried even harder for the sake of her relationship with Lily's daughter. Their relationship evolved and through it all Aubrey learned how to manage being friend and so much more.
I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book.
I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book.
November 11, 2025
3.5⭐️
This was a cute read. Full of emotions, banter, and evolution of the FMC,Auburn Fox . After the death of her longtime friend, Auburn began to take life into perspective. She excelled in her career; although her personal life sure needed some work.
I enjoyed how she became so devoted to Lily’s little family. The plot keeps you attentive, although I do believe some parts of the book was drawn out a bit much. All in all it is a very good read.Thank you BookSiren and Author K.E. Hayes for this free eARC.
November 24, 2025
ARC READER
I am so late to the party and I deeply apologise for this (life unfortunately got in the way of me reading)
This book made me cry so hard I had to put it down because my eyes were too blurry. Then it had me laugh, and then it had me in love.
It is incredibly detailed on medical jargon, I felt like I was in the hospital with them. Every time I closed my eyes I could picture the noise, the smell, and the hospital so vividly. It’s extremely well written and incredibly well phrased.
I had yet to find a book that described grief so well and this is the one.
A must read
I am so late to the party and I deeply apologise for this (life unfortunately got in the way of me reading)
This book made me cry so hard I had to put it down because my eyes were too blurry. Then it had me laugh, and then it had me in love.
It is incredibly detailed on medical jargon, I felt like I was in the hospital with them. Every time I closed my eyes I could picture the noise, the smell, and the hospital so vividly. It’s extremely well written and incredibly well phrased.
I had yet to find a book that described grief so well and this is the one.
A must read
November 3, 2025
Almost Friends is a character-driven story about love born from loss and the courage to let people in. The narrative blends humour with emotion, making it a standout for fans of enemies-to-lovers romance with real-world complexity. The backdrop of a working hospital where loss is experienced daily and in different ways makes the main characters experiences slightly authentic.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 6, 2025
Thank you to the author and booksirens for the e-arc copy.
This is a second chance between a badass surgeon who is dealing with the loss of her lifelong best friend by helping her husband raise their daughter without a mom, i have to say i didnt like damon at first, the fatphobia was a serious Ick for me. He did get better throughout the story and made his dues and he is amazing father to little rosie.
This is a second chance between a badass surgeon who is dealing with the loss of her lifelong best friend by helping her husband raise their daughter without a mom, i have to say i didnt like damon at first, the fatphobia was a serious Ick for me. He did get better throughout the story and made his dues and he is amazing father to little rosie.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2025
Aubrey didn't like Damon from the first time she overheard him insulting her to his friends but when her best friend Lily his wife dies she steps up to help him with his daughter her goddaughter Rosie and they become friends but she gets scared when she starts to feel more. Aubrey has a lot of self esteem issues despite her many professional successes and she puts up walls. There is a lot of drama in the hospital and her ex comes back and adds to it.
September 16, 2025
‘Almost Friends’ by K. E. Hayes is one of the most captivating novels I’ve read in a long time.
The growth of these multi-layered, deep characters is nothing short of phenomenal. It’s a whole life of grief, hope, friendship, yearning, and love, all embraced within the pages of this book.
Many thanks to BookSirens, the publisher, and the author for the e-ARC of this enthralling novel.
The growth of these multi-layered, deep characters is nothing short of phenomenal. It’s a whole life of grief, hope, friendship, yearning, and love, all embraced within the pages of this book.
Many thanks to BookSirens, the publisher, and the author for the e-ARC of this enthralling novel.
November 10, 2025
She believes others are no good and better under general anesthesia but her life is going to change. Her one friend dies leaving behind a daughter who she needs to care for. There is also a husband who will cause issues. See where it is all going to lead
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a wonderful book
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and a wonderful book
November 22, 2025
The story is very well written ,great storyline and characters are pictured realistically . Friendship, responsibilities ,work ethic and families tangled together in one saga.
Is not fast read ,you will have to digest everything slowly because issues are intense.
Yes, I recommend reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Is not fast read ,you will have to digest everything slowly because issues are intense.
Yes, I recommend reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 4, 2025
received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gem books and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
LIKE THE BOOK
slow start
sweet romance
This is where I say the author gives enough information.
So, I do not give anything away
LIKE THE BOOK
slow start
sweet romance
This is where I say the author gives enough information.
So, I do not give anything away
November 10, 2025
This book was so much better than I expected. The processing through the grief and the development of their relationship being so natural. I did expect the weight thing to take a larger roll based on the description, but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
December 7, 2025
I couldn’t put it down. I binged it in only a few days. I was so excited to get my hands on this book.
I loved the second chance especially after life has thrown some curve balls. When losing your best friend and trying to figure out life it can be difficult. She did deserve her happy ending .
I loved the second chance especially after life has thrown some curve balls. When losing your best friend and trying to figure out life it can be difficult. She did deserve her happy ending .
October 30, 2025
Arc read good book
December 10, 2025
It was a great book. I fell in love with it. I was given an arc and i choose to give a honest review.
November 27, 2025
The slowest of burns but wow! What an engrossing story!
When Bad*ss doctor Aubrey's best friend Lily dies, She is fully intent on remaining in (her friend's daughter) Rosie's life, even though that means being in regular contact with Lily's widower Damon who she's not so fond of because of an awkward and disappointing first meeting.
There is much growth of both characters.
The friend group/found family and just raising Rosie as a family was sooo sweet and tender to read.
There was drama with colleagues and also a little love triangle playing out.
Really enjoyed and loved.
When Bad*ss doctor Aubrey's best friend Lily dies, She is fully intent on remaining in (her friend's daughter) Rosie's life, even though that means being in regular contact with Lily's widower Damon who she's not so fond of because of an awkward and disappointing first meeting.
There is much growth of both characters.
The friend group/found family and just raising Rosie as a family was sooo sweet and tender to read.
There was drama with colleagues and also a little love triangle playing out.
Really enjoyed and loved.
November 9, 2025
Almost Friends by K.E. Hayes
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book and was not paid for my review.
***
Auburn Fox is a brilliant, plus-sized surgeon who is convinced all people are idiots, everyone except her best friend, Lily. When Lily dies, leaving her baby daughter behind, Auburn is forced into the orbit of the one man she can't stand: Lily's husband, Damon. Now, for the baby’s sake, these two have to play nice, and Auburn is about to find out there’s more to her enemy than she ever imagined.
• Enemies to Lovers
• Forced Proximity
• Grumpy Heroine
• Found Family
• Emotional & heart-wrenching
***
Please be aware that this book deals with grief, loss, traumatic medical events and cancer. The author handles these topics with a genuine and thoughtful touch, but it is an emotional read, so be prepared.
I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect from this book, I’m always a sucker for a curvy FMC with tattoos, so I was easily sold. This story cut me right to my feelings, tissues were an absolute must.
Aubrey (or Auburn, Awbee, Aub, Dr Fox, Dr Angry, Cher - whichever you’re brave enough to call her) is a kick ass surgeon who is literally out there saving lives, rebuilding faces and bodies, and dealing with the horrors that humans inflict on each other. Yet despite her prickly exterior, she becomes a respected leader and much loved friend.
Damon is her best friend’s widower and the father to her goddaughter, and god does he make a bad first, second and third impression. I have to say this is the closest I’ve been to going ew, no to a MMC. Screwed up nose and all. But just as it was for Aubrey, boy did he grow on me.
Their SLOW burn romance was delicious, emotional, full of turmoil and inner angst. But good god did that ending put a massive goofy smile on my face.
The side characters are perfect compliments to the story, including the remembered voice of Lily regularly kicking her bestie in the right direction.
This book floored me. Its emotional, dark and gritty, but also so hopeful. The writing is beautiful, handling awful topics alongside an endearing, real romance. Read it, you won’t regret it – unless you forget tissues.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - emotional, hopeful and painful. Beautiful.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book and was not paid for my review.
***
Auburn Fox is a brilliant, plus-sized surgeon who is convinced all people are idiots, everyone except her best friend, Lily. When Lily dies, leaving her baby daughter behind, Auburn is forced into the orbit of the one man she can't stand: Lily's husband, Damon. Now, for the baby’s sake, these two have to play nice, and Auburn is about to find out there’s more to her enemy than she ever imagined.
• Enemies to Lovers
• Forced Proximity
• Grumpy Heroine
• Found Family
• Emotional & heart-wrenching
***
Please be aware that this book deals with grief, loss, traumatic medical events and cancer. The author handles these topics with a genuine and thoughtful touch, but it is an emotional read, so be prepared.
I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect from this book, I’m always a sucker for a curvy FMC with tattoos, so I was easily sold. This story cut me right to my feelings, tissues were an absolute must.
Aubrey (or Auburn, Awbee, Aub, Dr Fox, Dr Angry, Cher - whichever you’re brave enough to call her) is a kick ass surgeon who is literally out there saving lives, rebuilding faces and bodies, and dealing with the horrors that humans inflict on each other. Yet despite her prickly exterior, she becomes a respected leader and much loved friend.
Damon is her best friend’s widower and the father to her goddaughter, and god does he make a bad first, second and third impression. I have to say this is the closest I’ve been to going ew, no to a MMC. Screwed up nose and all. But just as it was for Aubrey, boy did he grow on me.
Their SLOW burn romance was delicious, emotional, full of turmoil and inner angst. But good god did that ending put a massive goofy smile on my face.
The side characters are perfect compliments to the story, including the remembered voice of Lily regularly kicking her bestie in the right direction.
This book floored me. Its emotional, dark and gritty, but also so hopeful. The writing is beautiful, handling awful topics alongside an endearing, real romance. Read it, you won’t regret it – unless you forget tissues.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - emotional, hopeful and painful. Beautiful.
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