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Peachwood Falls #1
Tempt: Peachwood Falls
It was a simple job—keeping his teenage daughter out of trouble for thirty days. But I didn’t realize how my grumpy, gorgeous, blue collar, single dad boss would tempt me in all the wrong ways.
Chase Marshall is the bane of my existence. He’s moody, gruff, and impossible to read. Sure, he’s an incredible father, but with me? He’s colder than a February night in this small Indiana town.
And now, because of a favor, I’m stuck living under his roof for the next thirty days.
He claims I’m the most infuriating woman he’s ever met. But then come the lingering glances, the accidental touches that don’t feel so accidental, and a smirk that I want to kiss off his annoyingly handsome face.
The longer we’re together, the hotter it gets—until the tension finally snaps.
Now, nothing is simple. The job. Our boundaries. My feelings.
Will Chase watch me walk away when my time is up? Or will he be tempted to ask me to stay?
This title was originally published as More Than I Could.
Chase Marshall is the bane of my existence. He’s moody, gruff, and impossible to read. Sure, he’s an incredible father, but with me? He’s colder than a February night in this small Indiana town.
And now, because of a favor, I’m stuck living under his roof for the next thirty days.
He claims I’m the most infuriating woman he’s ever met. But then come the lingering glances, the accidental touches that don’t feel so accidental, and a smirk that I want to kiss off his annoyingly handsome face.
The longer we’re together, the hotter it gets—until the tension finally snaps.
Now, nothing is simple. The job. Our boundaries. My feelings.
Will Chase watch me walk away when my time is up? Or will he be tempted to ask me to stay?
This title was originally published as More Than I Could.
Audible Audio
Published September 22, 2025
217 people are currently reading
7097 people want to read
About the author
Adriana Locke
98 books15.9k followersAdriana Locke is a USA Today and Amazon Charts Bestselling author with a knack for writing swoony, unforgettable contemporary romances. At nineteen, she traded her small-town roots for big-city life, only to realize her heart beats for quiet mornings and cozy chaos. These days, she’s living her happily-ever-after in Ohio with Mr. Locke—her high school sweetheart—four lively sons, and two hilariously hyper Jack Russell terriers.
When she’s not penning love stories that will leave you laughing and sighing, Adriana is battling the epic quest of missing silverware, “gardening” (a.k.a. chatting with her plants), or leaving her grocery list on the counter as she heads to the store. Grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let her books whisk you away to a world of heartwarming romance and irresistible heroes.
When she’s not penning love stories that will leave you laughing and sighing, Adriana is battling the epic quest of missing silverware, “gardening” (a.k.a. chatting with her plants), or leaving her grocery list on the counter as she heads to the store. Grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let her books whisk you away to a world of heartwarming romance and irresistible heroes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
October 29, 2025
I liked it until the very end.
That was not nearly enough groveling for how big of a jerk he was to her.
He needed a good punch in the nuts. Or she should have just gotten on the plane and made him sweat a little. Keep him on his toes for having his head so far up his ass. Is he going to act like a man baby every time he’s tired??
Anyway. I did enjoy it. 🤷🏻♀️
That was not nearly enough groveling for how big of a jerk he was to her.
He needed a good punch in the nuts. Or she should have just gotten on the plane and made him sweat a little. Keep him on his toes for having his head so far up his ass. Is he going to act like a man baby every time he’s tired??
Anyway. I did enjoy it. 🤷🏻♀️
December 30, 2025
Single dad, nanny, spit-fire sweet teenager! I loved this story so much, it wasn’t your typical age gap nanny/single dad story. I loved her maturity, experiences and advice for Chase’s daughter. The whole dynamic between these 3 was wonderful. Megan was amazing and one of my favorite heroines 😍
September 22, 2025
I absolutely loved Tempt by Adriana Locke; it is an incredible love at first sight love story. It is part of her Peachwood Falls series. Adriana Locke continues to prove that she is an amazing storyteller. Tempt was impossible to put it down and I loved every moment on every page. Who does not love hot sexy men, strong females, loving families, and friends, who always support one another? I really enjoy how the book is told in the first person from perspective of the main characters. I love getting the insight and feelings from the different characters. My favorite part of the book is how Adriana Locke incorporates the picture on the cover into the love story. I love how Adriana Locke always manages to create the "perfect" heroine, who is a strong, sassy woman on her own, to balance out the sexy, swoon worthy man. Adriana Locke continues to deliver all that and so much more. Tempt is love at first sight love story and is filled with heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. I love the lighter moments where I find myself smiling and laughing out loud. My favorite moments are the ones that pull at my heartstrings that cause me to sigh, as I read the heartbreaking moments. Tempt is filled with such moments, and with so much emotion. It is filled with all those things that we have come to love and expect in a love story, Adriana Locke did not disappoint, especially with the poignant and bittersweet moments that filled this page turner. Tempt is the story of Chase Marshall, lineman and grumpy single father of his teenage daughter, Kennedy and his nanny, Megan Kramer, recently unemployed nail polish designer. Megan is in Peachwood Falls for a month to be a nanny for Chase’s fourteen-year-old daughter, Kennedy while Chase’s mother, Maggie and father, Lonnie visit with Chase’s sister, Kate. Megan’s mother, Denise is best friends with Maggie and was originally supposed to be help Maggie, but she fell and broke her leg. Megan and Chase meet on the side of the road where Megan’s rental car has broken down. Chase realizes that there is no coolant in her rental car and helps her get her car started. Neither one realizes the identity of the other. Megan checks into The Ridges overnight and heads to The Wet Whistle, a bar across the street, for dinner and unknowingly meets, Chase’s brother, Gavin, who she declares is her new best friend. Megan recently lost her job in L.A. and moved back home to Dallas and in with her mother. The following Megan morning heads to meet at Maggie, and her granddaughter. She did not know it was the home of the man who helped her with her car trouble the night before, until she meets him. With his reaction, Megan decides not to take the job as nanny. Chase convinces her to stay so that his parents can go visit his sister. I love the chemistry between Megan and Chase. Conversation between Megan and Chase flows so easily, I love that both Megan and Chase share secrets with one another that they have not shared with anyone before, especially the secrets that they Megan shares about her father and Chase shares about Monica, Kennedy’s late mother. Megan suffers from insecurities because of her upbringing and her mother’s lifestyle. Chase on the other hand is not looking for a relationship and is only interested in raising Kennedy. I love all the nicknames that Megan has for Chase. As Megan and Chase spend time together things quickly change between them, neither one is willing to admit their true feelings for one another. Some of their conversations between Megan and Chase are truly heartbreaking. I love the relationship between Megan and Kennedy and the conversations between the two of them. A heart-breaking surprise plot twist occurs, which changes everything between Megan and Chase. I love the heart-to-heart conversation that Megan has with mother, and the heart-to-heart conversation that Chase has with his mother and siblings. My favorite statement comes from Megan’s mother, about finding her home. I loved that Tempt is a more than just a romance, there are issues that both Megan and Chase are facing that need to be resolved. I love how the storylines get so beautifully resolved. I love the perfect ending to their love story. I loved the proposal, it was my favorite part of the story. Tempt is filled with poignant and bittersweet moments as well as plot twists. I love the Peachwood Falls location. I love the characters and the family dynamic in Tempt the characters feel like family and friends. I enjoyed all the interactions between the Marshall siblings, it feels like real family love and makes me laugh at their teasing. I loved all the characters in Tempt, and I am so hoping that there will be more books in the series about the Marshall siblings. Who does not love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? I thoroughly enjoyed Tempt, who does not love a love at first sight love story with a grumpy single dad. Highly recommend this incredible love story.
October 20, 2025
Chase and Megan should be called The Bickersons. Because that is what they do best. Well, maybe some other stuff too, but you’ll have to keep listening for that. He’s the very picture of Grumpy Guy and she never lets a thought roll around in her head for too long before she just comes right out and says it.
Megan is kind of at loose ends. Downsized out of her California job. She was maybe done with that phase of her life but she would have preferred to transition to a next phase on her own timeline – and after she has figured out what the next phase should be. She doesn’t want to live with her mother in Texas forever but for right now she’s feeling a little lost and a bit of a failure. Which is why she’s available and agrees to go to Indiana in place of her mom and help a friend out. Megan’s mom was going to stay with her old friend Maggie’s son and feisty 14-year-old granddaughter while Maggie is out of town for a few weeks. When Megan’s mom breaks her leg Megan agrees to fill in. She doesn’t have anything else to do, and how hard can it be? When she arrives in town her rental car breaks down, and this impatient, cranky guy stops to help her. Impatient, cranky – and HOT HOT HOT. She hesitates at first because – late, dark lonely road, stranger. His attitude is “take my help or not but stop wasting my time.” They each think the other is pretty easy on the eyes and there’s a little sizzle going on between them, but he doesn’t worry much about being polite and she pretty much blurts out whatever she’s thinking, because they’ll never see each other again, right? Yeah, about that . . . .
When she finally gets to her (little) hotel and goes to the only place open to eat, the local bar, she tells the bartender about her experience and he seems to think it’s rather amusing. What’s up with that? When she goes to the house in the morning and meets with Maggie she also tells her about her night and the impatient, HOT, cranky, HOT, did I say HOT, guy who she compares to a grumpy cat. Turns out it’s a small world after all, and this small town is even smaller. Can you guess who is changing clothes in the next room and hears Megan’s story? Terrific, laugh out loud start to a book that just keeps getting better.
Chase is a single dad, never expected to be but his love for daughter Kennedy is boundless. And his frustration with a stubborn boundary-pushing teenage girl is nearly boundless now, too. He can’t leave her alone while his mom and dad go to visit his sister. But after his encounter with Megan the previous night he doesn’t think she is responsible enough to trust with his daughter. She thinks he’s rude and insulting and not sure she needs to stay and put up with him. So they start out with suspicion, little trust, a lot of annoyance. The only thing that is certain is this fiery attraction between them. And then their concern for Kennedy as Megan begins to see a lot of her young self in this girl.
Megan may often speak without thinking, but she is capable, responsible and trustworthy. Chase may wear that frown like a shield but under it is fear at disrupting Kennedy’s life, doing anything for himself that may cause her harm in any way. And in addition to the HOT HOT HOT part, this man has a romantic streak a mile wide. He’s warm and cuddly and protective. This has to work out, it just has to, but how? They just met, Kennedy doesn’t want or think she needs a babysitter, and just what is Megan supposed to do for a job and a place to live in this tiny little town?
Well, that’s for author Adriana Locke to work out, isn’t it? And work it out she does. We meet a full cast of very likeable, loveable, intriguing characters that we want to get to know better. Small town life, and life with people you just might love, can be pretty charming and fulfilling. If only . . . . Narrators Maxine Mitchell & Tor Thom are perfect. She chatters away as Megan, he is baffled and frustrated and sexy as Chase. Perfect dialogue, perfect pace, pretty perfect story. Chase has a lot of brothers so a series would be wonderful, but if not this is a totally sweet, swoony standalone.
I received free reading and listening copies of Tempt from the author. Highly recommend. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own. Note: This title was originally published as More Than I Could.
Megan is kind of at loose ends. Downsized out of her California job. She was maybe done with that phase of her life but she would have preferred to transition to a next phase on her own timeline – and after she has figured out what the next phase should be. She doesn’t want to live with her mother in Texas forever but for right now she’s feeling a little lost and a bit of a failure. Which is why she’s available and agrees to go to Indiana in place of her mom and help a friend out. Megan’s mom was going to stay with her old friend Maggie’s son and feisty 14-year-old granddaughter while Maggie is out of town for a few weeks. When Megan’s mom breaks her leg Megan agrees to fill in. She doesn’t have anything else to do, and how hard can it be? When she arrives in town her rental car breaks down, and this impatient, cranky guy stops to help her. Impatient, cranky – and HOT HOT HOT. She hesitates at first because – late, dark lonely road, stranger. His attitude is “take my help or not but stop wasting my time.” They each think the other is pretty easy on the eyes and there’s a little sizzle going on between them, but he doesn’t worry much about being polite and she pretty much blurts out whatever she’s thinking, because they’ll never see each other again, right? Yeah, about that . . . .
When she finally gets to her (little) hotel and goes to the only place open to eat, the local bar, she tells the bartender about her experience and he seems to think it’s rather amusing. What’s up with that? When she goes to the house in the morning and meets with Maggie she also tells her about her night and the impatient, HOT, cranky, HOT, did I say HOT, guy who she compares to a grumpy cat. Turns out it’s a small world after all, and this small town is even smaller. Can you guess who is changing clothes in the next room and hears Megan’s story? Terrific, laugh out loud start to a book that just keeps getting better.
Chase is a single dad, never expected to be but his love for daughter Kennedy is boundless. And his frustration with a stubborn boundary-pushing teenage girl is nearly boundless now, too. He can’t leave her alone while his mom and dad go to visit his sister. But after his encounter with Megan the previous night he doesn’t think she is responsible enough to trust with his daughter. She thinks he’s rude and insulting and not sure she needs to stay and put up with him. So they start out with suspicion, little trust, a lot of annoyance. The only thing that is certain is this fiery attraction between them. And then their concern for Kennedy as Megan begins to see a lot of her young self in this girl.
Megan may often speak without thinking, but she is capable, responsible and trustworthy. Chase may wear that frown like a shield but under it is fear at disrupting Kennedy’s life, doing anything for himself that may cause her harm in any way. And in addition to the HOT HOT HOT part, this man has a romantic streak a mile wide. He’s warm and cuddly and protective. This has to work out, it just has to, but how? They just met, Kennedy doesn’t want or think she needs a babysitter, and just what is Megan supposed to do for a job and a place to live in this tiny little town?
Well, that’s for author Adriana Locke to work out, isn’t it? And work it out she does. We meet a full cast of very likeable, loveable, intriguing characters that we want to get to know better. Small town life, and life with people you just might love, can be pretty charming and fulfilling. If only . . . . Narrators Maxine Mitchell & Tor Thom are perfect. She chatters away as Megan, he is baffled and frustrated and sexy as Chase. Perfect dialogue, perfect pace, pretty perfect story. Chase has a lot of brothers so a series would be wonderful, but if not this is a totally sweet, swoony standalone.
I received free reading and listening copies of Tempt from the author. Highly recommend. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own. Note: This title was originally published as More Than I Could.
September 25, 2025
Tempt is the perfect blend of humor, heart, and sizzling heat! There’s just something about a single dad romance story that just makes me swoon and hits me with all the feels. Chase and Megan's first meeting, or even their second meeting doesn't end very well. Megan has traveled the world and is now between jobs. She traveled across the country to help her mother's friend watch her fourteen year old granddaughter, Kennedy, while she is away and her son is at work. Chase wasn't happy to find out the first woman he has been attracted to in years is staying with him for a month. But once they give each other a chance, the sexual tension and desire between them burns sizzling hot. Chase's main focus is on his daughter, but he soon breaks all his rules when he can't stop from acting on their fiery attraction. They are so good together, and with Megan and Kennedy having similar teen struggles, form a sweet bond as well. Just as Megan finally feels like she found a place that feels like home, her time there is coming to an end. Will they find the courage to ask for what they want, or will Chase let Megan go, breaking all their hearts? Chase and Megan's story is so fun, emotional and sexy. The more they open to each other the more they learn about themselves. Chase's daughter, Kennedy, was such a sweetheart, even as she struggled to be heard. I loved the evolution of their relationship and the beautiful family they were making. Chase is so grumpy, and has his flaws, but is attentive, caring, and swoony. Megan is so perfect for him with her strength, determination and devotion to his daughter and him. I loved Chase's family and their quirky friends who made this story even more fun and heartwarming. This is such touching, and heartfelt romance with great characters, hilarious banter and sizzling passion! I am so in love with Peachwood Falls! It's the kind of place that draws you in, and makes you feel right at home. I fell in love with all the characters in this witty, steamy, and unputdownable love story, and I would love it if they get their own story as well!
I really enjoyed both Maxine Mitchell and Tor Thom's performances. They are both excellent narrators and their voices complimented each other well. I love Mitchell's authentic male voice, which is only one of many reasons why she is one of my favorite narrators. Mitchell and Thom did a fantastic job bringing these characters and story to life.
I really enjoyed both Maxine Mitchell and Tor Thom's performances. They are both excellent narrators and their voices complimented each other well. I love Mitchell's authentic male voice, which is only one of many reasons why she is one of my favorite narrators. Mitchell and Thom did a fantastic job bringing these characters and story to life.
October 4, 2025
I absolutely adored everything about this book!!!! Megan & Chase’s romance is entertaining and fun but also packed with lots of feels and heartwarming moments. Their romance doesn’t start off so great on the side of the road but their relationship evolves so naturally throughout the story with hilarious banter, sizzling chemistry and emotion mixed throughout it all.
Single dad/nanny is always such a fun trope combo to read but it was so refreshing to read a single dad to a teenage daughter! Kennedy added another layer to this story that had me falling even harder for this trio! First, I loved that we got to see the depth to Chase as he was just trying to be the best dad he could be for Kennedy despite her rebellious stage, while Kennedy also developed a relationship with Megan as well. I loved how Megan was the female role model she needed and yet also supported Kennedy and what was best for her. It was such a sweet side dynamic!
I absolutely loved Chase’s brother Gavin in this book! I adored his interactions with Megan from the start as he’s sweet and flirty but knows she’s his brother’s girl. Also Megan making him her best friend was just hilarious! I really hope we get his story!!!
Small Town
Single Dad/Nanny
Teenage Daughter
Grumpy/Sunshine
Forced Proximity
AUDIO REVIEW:
Maxine Mitchell and Tor Thom gave a fantastic performance of this story!! Their voices blended together so well together as they both perfectly embodied their characters’ personalities which made this single dad/nanny romance such a treat to listen to!
Maxine is one of my favorites!! Her soft voice is so easy to listen to and is filled with incredible emotion and passion that brought so much life to Megan! She captured Megan’s fun personality and made her flirty banter with Chase AND Gavin so entertaining! Her male voice is also phenomenal! Tor’s deep tone brought out Chase’s grumpy personality while he also has a soft edge to his voice that showcased his softer side. He makes you feel the emotion in Chase’s voices when it comes to his vulnerabilities of raising a teenage daughter and the weight of not being there when she was younger. He will make you adore this single dad and see past his grump exterior!!
Single dad/nanny is always such a fun trope combo to read but it was so refreshing to read a single dad to a teenage daughter! Kennedy added another layer to this story that had me falling even harder for this trio! First, I loved that we got to see the depth to Chase as he was just trying to be the best dad he could be for Kennedy despite her rebellious stage, while Kennedy also developed a relationship with Megan as well. I loved how Megan was the female role model she needed and yet also supported Kennedy and what was best for her. It was such a sweet side dynamic!
I absolutely loved Chase’s brother Gavin in this book! I adored his interactions with Megan from the start as he’s sweet and flirty but knows she’s his brother’s girl. Also Megan making him her best friend was just hilarious! I really hope we get his story!!!
Small Town
Single Dad/Nanny
Teenage Daughter
Grumpy/Sunshine
Forced Proximity
AUDIO REVIEW:
Maxine Mitchell and Tor Thom gave a fantastic performance of this story!! Their voices blended together so well together as they both perfectly embodied their characters’ personalities which made this single dad/nanny romance such a treat to listen to!
Maxine is one of my favorites!! Her soft voice is so easy to listen to and is filled with incredible emotion and passion that brought so much life to Megan! She captured Megan’s fun personality and made her flirty banter with Chase AND Gavin so entertaining! Her male voice is also phenomenal! Tor’s deep tone brought out Chase’s grumpy personality while he also has a soft edge to his voice that showcased his softer side. He makes you feel the emotion in Chase’s voices when it comes to his vulnerabilities of raising a teenage daughter and the weight of not being there when she was younger. He will make you adore this single dad and see past his grump exterior!!
September 26, 2025
A standalone grumpy meets sunshine, small town romance, single father, nanny, forced proximity, HEA. This was previously published as "More Than I Could" but I listened to it this time around Maxine Mitchell and Thor Thom had me just as captivated as the first time I read it!
I just finished reading this book and I now have a new blue collar book boyfriend. Adriana writes the absolute best characters that I fall in love with every single time. I absolutely love the fact that most of the books I’ve read have larger family dynamics so I can visit the characters I love throughout the series. I know that this one it a standalone but I’m hopeful that the characters will demand a book of their own eventually! If you’re like me and you love a grumpy meets sunshine small town romance, then you’ll want to bump this one to the top of the TBR. I know you will not be disappointed! This book did my heart good, it’s light and fun while hitting me in the feels but not having to bust out the tissues! I devoured in a day only putting it down when I absolutely had to but trust me, I missed things when some people were trying to talk to me because I was too captivated by the characters. It took me a minute to realize they were talking to me, and I had to ask them to repeat themselves which part of the time was followed by “never mind” and I didn’t I was right back to my book!
Chase Marshall and Megan are perfectly entertaining from Chapter 1. I love that Chase is a “grumpy cat” that absolutely adores his teenage daughter and how great of a father he is. Megan is not shy and maybe doesn’t always use her filter especially if she’s trying to get a rise out of someone and it is perfection. Of course, they have a few things to sort to get to the HEA but this book left me smiling and had me laughing more than anything. I probably could gush on about this book but you should read it.
I just finished reading this book and I now have a new blue collar book boyfriend. Adriana writes the absolute best characters that I fall in love with every single time. I absolutely love the fact that most of the books I’ve read have larger family dynamics so I can visit the characters I love throughout the series. I know that this one it a standalone but I’m hopeful that the characters will demand a book of their own eventually! If you’re like me and you love a grumpy meets sunshine small town romance, then you’ll want to bump this one to the top of the TBR. I know you will not be disappointed! This book did my heart good, it’s light and fun while hitting me in the feels but not having to bust out the tissues! I devoured in a day only putting it down when I absolutely had to but trust me, I missed things when some people were trying to talk to me because I was too captivated by the characters. It took me a minute to realize they were talking to me, and I had to ask them to repeat themselves which part of the time was followed by “never mind” and I didn’t I was right back to my book!
Chase Marshall and Megan are perfectly entertaining from Chapter 1. I love that Chase is a “grumpy cat” that absolutely adores his teenage daughter and how great of a father he is. Megan is not shy and maybe doesn’t always use her filter especially if she’s trying to get a rise out of someone and it is perfection. Of course, they have a few things to sort to get to the HEA but this book left me smiling and had me laughing more than anything. I probably could gush on about this book but you should read it.
November 28, 2025
Adriana Locke delivers a solid contemporary romance with Tempt, one that hits many of the genre's satisfying beats while maintaining genuine emotional grounding. This is a book that knows what it is and executes its vision with competence and charm.
The core dynamic between Chase and Megan works well. Locke understands the grumpy single dad archetype and doesn't just coast on familiarity. There's real vulnerability beneath his protective exterior, and it's most clearly through his relationship with his daughter. That's where the heart of the story lives, and it's done convincingly. Megan serves as a compelling counterweight, and their banter has the easy rhythm of two people who genuinely spark off each other.
The forced proximity element is handled effectively, and the steam builds naturally enough. There's chemistry here, and the intimate scenes feel earned rather than obligatory. The found-family warmth that permeates the small-town setting gives the romance a coziness that works, especially if you gravitate toward stories grounded in community and connection.
That said, Tempt operates comfortably within established romance conventions without pushing particularly hard against them. The plot beats follow a familiar trajectory, and while the execution is solid, the story doesn't quite reach the level of emotional complexity or narrative surprise that would elevate it beyond satisfying comfort reading. Megan's character, while likable, could have been drawn with more depth and dimension.
The pacing is brisk and engaging—this is definitely highly readable in the way that keeps you turning pages. For readers seeking a low-stakes, emotionally warm small-town romance with engaging dialogue and a cast of supporting characters worth investing in, Tempt delivers exactly that.
I would highly recommend Tempt for fans of contemporary small-town romance.
The core dynamic between Chase and Megan works well. Locke understands the grumpy single dad archetype and doesn't just coast on familiarity. There's real vulnerability beneath his protective exterior, and it's most clearly through his relationship with his daughter. That's where the heart of the story lives, and it's done convincingly. Megan serves as a compelling counterweight, and their banter has the easy rhythm of two people who genuinely spark off each other.
The forced proximity element is handled effectively, and the steam builds naturally enough. There's chemistry here, and the intimate scenes feel earned rather than obligatory. The found-family warmth that permeates the small-town setting gives the romance a coziness that works, especially if you gravitate toward stories grounded in community and connection.
That said, Tempt operates comfortably within established romance conventions without pushing particularly hard against them. The plot beats follow a familiar trajectory, and while the execution is solid, the story doesn't quite reach the level of emotional complexity or narrative surprise that would elevate it beyond satisfying comfort reading. Megan's character, while likable, could have been drawn with more depth and dimension.
The pacing is brisk and engaging—this is definitely highly readable in the way that keeps you turning pages. For readers seeking a low-stakes, emotionally warm small-town romance with engaging dialogue and a cast of supporting characters worth investing in, Tempt delivers exactly that.
I would highly recommend Tempt for fans of contemporary small-town romance.
October 6, 2025
Chase is a single dad to a teenage girl, Kennedy who is overwhelmed with juggling everything and doing it alone. Although he gets help from his parents, it's not the same as having a partner to be the support that Kennedy needs as she goes through her teenage years. When his parents have to go out of town, his mom recruits her friend's daughter to come and help with Kennedy while they're away.
Megan is at a crossroads in her life. After living in LA and traveling for years, she gets laid off and finds herself going home to Texas to regroup and figure out her next steps. When her mom asks her to help her friend's son for a couple weeks while she travels, she decides she can help while making plans for her next life move.
Chase and Megan have an interesting meet cute and don't discover each other's identities until the next day. Their attraction for one another is instant and the chemistry is white hot from the jump. Trying to ignore their connection for the sake of Kennedy becomes difficult quickly and as time passes, they eventually give into each other and can't seem to get enough. Things get complicated quickly with their feelings developing as fast as Megan's departure is arriving. The longer they are together, the harder it becomes to envision life going back to what it was before they met, and when their fears takeover, they have to decide if they can truly choose each other - all or nothing.
It's a sweet small town, single dad romance that is full of love, heart, family and delicious spice. This was such a pleasant read, and I can't wait for the next one!
Maxine and Tor are some of my favorite narrators and I loved listening to them together on this one. Both delivered enthralling performances that embodied their characters so well and made the story that much sweeter.
Megan is at a crossroads in her life. After living in LA and traveling for years, she gets laid off and finds herself going home to Texas to regroup and figure out her next steps. When her mom asks her to help her friend's son for a couple weeks while she travels, she decides she can help while making plans for her next life move.
Chase and Megan have an interesting meet cute and don't discover each other's identities until the next day. Their attraction for one another is instant and the chemistry is white hot from the jump. Trying to ignore their connection for the sake of Kennedy becomes difficult quickly and as time passes, they eventually give into each other and can't seem to get enough. Things get complicated quickly with their feelings developing as fast as Megan's departure is arriving. The longer they are together, the harder it becomes to envision life going back to what it was before they met, and when their fears takeover, they have to decide if they can truly choose each other - all or nothing.
It's a sweet small town, single dad romance that is full of love, heart, family and delicious spice. This was such a pleasant read, and I can't wait for the next one!
Maxine and Tor are some of my favorite narrators and I loved listening to them together on this one. Both delivered enthralling performances that embodied their characters so well and made the story that much sweeter.
September 24, 2025
"Tempt" by Adriana Locke is the first book in the "Peachwood Falls" series.
This title was originally published as More Than I Could.
I received a digital and audio copy of the book from the author.
Opinions from this review are completely my own.
Reading and listening to this book made my day better.
What you can expect:
- grumpy single dad
- small town
- teenager daughter
- forced proximity
- instant attraction
- spice
The audiobook is narrated by Maxine Mitchel and Tor Thom in dual style.
I have to say that I enjoyed more the chapters from Megan's POV and I think Maxine did a great job with all the characters.
This story has lovable and relatable characters. Megan and Chase have such a great chemistry and they admit this from the start.
I like that there was not miscommunication and they solved the issues that appeared by talking them out.
My favorite part was the connection between Megan and Kennedy, especially the way she handled the issues from school.
Everyone should have someone like Megan on their side.
I also liked the Marshall family and the sibling dynamic.
This title was originally published as More Than I Could.
I received a digital and audio copy of the book from the author.
Opinions from this review are completely my own.
Reading and listening to this book made my day better.
What you can expect:
- grumpy single dad
- small town
- teenager daughter
- forced proximity
- instant attraction
- spice
The audiobook is narrated by Maxine Mitchel and Tor Thom in dual style.
I have to say that I enjoyed more the chapters from Megan's POV and I think Maxine did a great job with all the characters.
This story has lovable and relatable characters. Megan and Chase have such a great chemistry and they admit this from the start.
I like that there was not miscommunication and they solved the issues that appeared by talking them out.
My favorite part was the connection between Megan and Kennedy, especially the way she handled the issues from school.
Everyone should have someone like Megan on their side.
I also liked the Marshall family and the sibling dynamic.
October 4, 2025
Tempt, book one in the new Peachwood Creek series is sweet, steamy and has a fun meet cute with a follow up situation that throws both Megan Kramer and Chase Marshall into something that neither expected.
I love a grumpy sunshine, single dad character and Chase is all that and more. Add in the nanny vibe and boom, it’s a winner for me. These two go from living under the same roof to the same bed pretty quickly with the pull and chemistry between them being off the charts. Also, to keep the story fun and interesting is his misunderstood teenage daughter, Kennedy and the challenging behavior she is throwing his way, but with Megan in the picture some of those behaviors are finally understood and together they are all finding a new dynamic that works for them all.
I also had the added benefit of listening to the audio version of this story and the narrators did an amazing job that absolutely added to my enjoyment of this book.
I love a grumpy sunshine, single dad character and Chase is all that and more. Add in the nanny vibe and boom, it’s a winner for me. These two go from living under the same roof to the same bed pretty quickly with the pull and chemistry between them being off the charts. Also, to keep the story fun and interesting is his misunderstood teenage daughter, Kennedy and the challenging behavior she is throwing his way, but with Megan in the picture some of those behaviors are finally understood and together they are all finding a new dynamic that works for them all.
I also had the added benefit of listening to the audio version of this story and the narrators did an amazing job that absolutely added to my enjoyment of this book.
November 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ — 3 Stars
Tempt by Adriana Locke was a fun, quick romance read with charming moments, but it didn’t fully land for me. The story follows Megan, who becomes a live-in babysitter for Chase’s fourteen-year-old daughter—a girl who’s a bit rebellious. The setup made for some cute and entertaining scenes, and the chemistry between Megan and Chase was easy to root for.
However, the story veered into unrealistic territory at times. The biggest stretch for me was how fast their relationship progressed—getting engaged after only two or three weeks felt rushed, even for a romance novel. I love a good “fast fall,” but this one moved a little too quickly to feel believable.
Another pet peeve of mine showed up too: character descriptions not matching the cover. In the book, Megan is described as having blonde hair and blue eyes… yet the cover clearly shows a woman with brown hair. It’s a small detail, but it pulls me out of the story when the visuals don’t line up with the text.
Tempt by Adriana Locke was a fun, quick romance read with charming moments, but it didn’t fully land for me. The story follows Megan, who becomes a live-in babysitter for Chase’s fourteen-year-old daughter—a girl who’s a bit rebellious. The setup made for some cute and entertaining scenes, and the chemistry between Megan and Chase was easy to root for.
However, the story veered into unrealistic territory at times. The biggest stretch for me was how fast their relationship progressed—getting engaged after only two or three weeks felt rushed, even for a romance novel. I love a good “fast fall,” but this one moved a little too quickly to feel believable.
Another pet peeve of mine showed up too: character descriptions not matching the cover. In the book, Megan is described as having blonde hair and blue eyes… yet the cover clearly shows a woman with brown hair. It’s a small detail, but it pulls me out of the story when the visuals don’t line up with the text.
September 21, 2025
Audio update!
I guess I am in my Maxine Era?! Whether she’s a rock star’s new bride, a boss babe loved by three men, or a nanny for a cinnamon roll daddy, she nails them all! 😉 she is amazing as Megan💕
Definitely give the audiobook a listen if you can🥰
~~~~~~~
Mmm I Would definitely call Chase daddy;) He is such a hot cinnamon roll. All grumpy & sexy with a soft spot on his heart. He is a great dad who doubts himself…don’t we all but that’s what makes him so relatable. Throw in a hot nanny and this daddy finds himself with his hands full😉
Hand down Megan is a total boss babe! The way she dresses down the teacher and principal are yell out loud goal worthy. Because fuck that judge mental lady.
Megan is the best addition to Ken & Chase’s family. She is everything he didn’t know he needed and everything Ken has been searching for💕
💕fave quotes📖
The door swings open, and Chase walks in clad in a pair of gray sweatpants sans shirt. If I didn’t know better, I’d say he knows exactly what he’s doing.—-yeah he did! Lol
Something is calming about the sun rising. Dad always said that the sun coming up was a sign that you get a new start. All of yesterday’s mistakes were erased in the night. I liked that idea growing up, and I’ve kept it with me my whole life.—-THIS! Love it♥️
I guess I am in my Maxine Era?! Whether she’s a rock star’s new bride, a boss babe loved by three men, or a nanny for a cinnamon roll daddy, she nails them all! 😉 she is amazing as Megan💕
Definitely give the audiobook a listen if you can🥰
~~~~~~~
Mmm I Would definitely call Chase daddy;) He is such a hot cinnamon roll. All grumpy & sexy with a soft spot on his heart. He is a great dad who doubts himself…don’t we all but that’s what makes him so relatable. Throw in a hot nanny and this daddy finds himself with his hands full😉
Hand down Megan is a total boss babe! The way she dresses down the teacher and principal are yell out loud goal worthy. Because fuck that judge mental lady.
Megan is the best addition to Ken & Chase’s family. She is everything he didn’t know he needed and everything Ken has been searching for💕
💕fave quotes📖
The door swings open, and Chase walks in clad in a pair of gray sweatpants sans shirt. If I didn’t know better, I’d say he knows exactly what he’s doing.—-yeah he did! Lol
Something is calming about the sun rising. Dad always said that the sun coming up was a sign that you get a new start. All of yesterday’s mistakes were erased in the night. I liked that idea growing up, and I’ve kept it with me my whole life.—-THIS! Love it♥️
December 8, 2025
This was such a fantastic book. Chase is a single dad trying to deal with his teenage daughter. Megan is doing a favor for her mom and being a nanny for her friend’s son in a small town in the middle of nowhere. When Chase and Megan meet sparks fly, but he is pretty grumpy and they don’t even exchange names. When they then find out that Megan is the nanny for Chase, he isn’t on board since he doesn’t know how he is going to stay away from her. I loved how they both just clicked with each other but also how the story dealt with some insecurities that pertain to everyone. I also liked the notion of “home” and also questioning what you fit. Once again Adriana Locke gives us a heartwarming romance in a small town, but with laughs and steam intermixed. I am now hoping we get stories for more of Chase’s family.
I also listened to the audio and really enjoyed the narrators.
I also listened to the audio and really enjoyed the narrators.
November 2, 2025
This is a fantastic single dad, small town enemies to lovers story.
Chase is a single dad who’s a bit grumpy, growly and delightful once he lets his guard down.
Megan is helping her mom out with a favor but certainly doesn’t expect to fall for the single dad.
The banter between these two is fantastic…especially early on when they are trying to figure out the situation. This is a fear read that will make you laugh and fall in love with the characters….they main characters get a lot of advise from friends and family!
Maxine Mitchel and Tor Thom deliver an amazing performance. They give each of the characters perfect voice, emotion and personality. I love how narrators give us a whole new experience to enjoying a book through their voices.
Chase is a single dad who’s a bit grumpy, growly and delightful once he lets his guard down.
Megan is helping her mom out with a favor but certainly doesn’t expect to fall for the single dad.
The banter between these two is fantastic…especially early on when they are trying to figure out the situation. This is a fear read that will make you laugh and fall in love with the characters….they main characters get a lot of advise from friends and family!
Maxine Mitchel and Tor Thom deliver an amazing performance. They give each of the characters perfect voice, emotion and personality. I love how narrators give us a whole new experience to enjoying a book through their voices.
September 22, 2025
Adriana Locke never disappoints me. This series is being re-released with new BEAUTIFUL covers, so I dove in to start reading and I’m SO GLAD I did!
I always love small town, found family vibe series, and that’s exactly what it is.
Chase is a grumpy single dad who needs help with his teenage daughter since his mother is taking a trip to see his sister and won’t be available to help. His mom helps by enlisting the help of her best friend’s daughter, Megan, who is recently out of work.
The second these two meet I knew I was going to be obsessed. Chase is the grumpiest man that has no issue telling you exactly what he’s thinking. And Megan doesn’t shy away. I loved their banter and their chemistry as off the charts!!
Is there a limit to how many times you highlight in an ebook? Because I swear I basically highlighted the whole dang book! So many amazing moments between Chase and Megan. Loved her friendship with Gavin and also how sweet she is with Kennedy. There were so many moments I was swooning!! And you absolutely know the spice was SPICY 😍
This was such an amazing start to the Peachwood Falls series. These Marshall Men are going to be SO FUN to read about!
I always love small town, found family vibe series, and that’s exactly what it is.
Chase is a grumpy single dad who needs help with his teenage daughter since his mother is taking a trip to see his sister and won’t be available to help. His mom helps by enlisting the help of her best friend’s daughter, Megan, who is recently out of work.
The second these two meet I knew I was going to be obsessed. Chase is the grumpiest man that has no issue telling you exactly what he’s thinking. And Megan doesn’t shy away. I loved their banter and their chemistry as off the charts!!
Is there a limit to how many times you highlight in an ebook? Because I swear I basically highlighted the whole dang book! So many amazing moments between Chase and Megan. Loved her friendship with Gavin and also how sweet she is with Kennedy. There were so many moments I was swooning!! And you absolutely know the spice was SPICY 😍
This was such an amazing start to the Peachwood Falls series. These Marshall Men are going to be SO FUN to read about!
September 22, 2025
100% Feel Good Escape from Reality
I think this book is exactly what the author wanted it to be and I here for it! The characters couldn’t be more likeable in that they all have flaws but are basically the best humans ever. The chemistry between Megan and Chase is off the charts right from the start. Lust at first sight which quickly turns into a forever love. Chase is the sweetest grump in the world who Megan cant help but poke at. Both characters show depth and complexity that helps to balance out some of the more in your face escapism this book offers. There were times that the innuendo was OTT but the conflict and tension was palpable and it leads to the steamiest of steam. I also really enjoyed the relationship that developed between Megan and Kennedy. It was necessary and lovely to read. I am not one for a lot of angst or drawn-out drama so I enjoyed the fast pace of this book and quick resolutions throughout. An easy read that I couldn’t put down.
I think this book is exactly what the author wanted it to be and I here for it! The characters couldn’t be more likeable in that they all have flaws but are basically the best humans ever. The chemistry between Megan and Chase is off the charts right from the start. Lust at first sight which quickly turns into a forever love. Chase is the sweetest grump in the world who Megan cant help but poke at. Both characters show depth and complexity that helps to balance out some of the more in your face escapism this book offers. There were times that the innuendo was OTT but the conflict and tension was palpable and it leads to the steamiest of steam. I also really enjoyed the relationship that developed between Megan and Kennedy. It was necessary and lovely to read. I am not one for a lot of angst or drawn-out drama so I enjoyed the fast pace of this book and quick resolutions throughout. An easy read that I couldn’t put down.
September 24, 2025
Chase needs help with his teenage daughter since his mother is taking a trip and will be out of town for a month. She finds her replacement with Megan who is her best friends daughter. Their is an instant connection between Chase and Megan but they have to put it aside for the sake of his daughter. But the chemistry was too hard to ignore!! These two were amazing together. The spark was their and the banter was fun. I loved how Megan interacted with Chase's daughter as well. She was just what they both needed! And I LOVED the grand gesture at the end!
AUDIO: This was narrated by Tor Thom and Maxine Mitchell. Maxine was fabulous! She nailed Megan's character and her male voice was so convincing! This was an easy and fun listen.
-Small Town
-Single Dad x Nanny
-Grumpy X Sunshine
-Age Gap
Thank you Adriana for this ALC!!
AUDIO: This was narrated by Tor Thom and Maxine Mitchell. Maxine was fabulous! She nailed Megan's character and her male voice was so convincing! This was an easy and fun listen.
-Small Town
-Single Dad x Nanny
-Grumpy X Sunshine
-Age Gap
Thank you Adriana for this ALC!!
September 22, 2025
Today I just finished listening to Tempt and oh my, Ioved it just as much as I loved reading it the first time! The characters are blending perfectly together. I love how natural Chase is handling being a dad, we all know parenting isn’t for the faint of heart, but he makes us feel like we are not alone in it. Parenting is hard for all of us.
The story is so good, even though it’s a re-read for me it kept my attention to the end and I will definitely do it again. This story is that type of story that will make me want to re-read it again.
Today I started listening to Truly too and all I can say is that I’m at chapter 6 and I already know I will finish it tomorrow. I won’t stop myself from listening to it all. 🫣😅
So go check these books out, I personally recommend them! For me these books are the best. 😍
The story is so good, even though it’s a re-read for me it kept my attention to the end and I will definitely do it again. This story is that type of story that will make me want to re-read it again.
Today I started listening to Truly too and all I can say is that I’m at chapter 6 and I already know I will finish it tomorrow. I won’t stop myself from listening to it all. 🫣😅
So go check these books out, I personally recommend them! For me these books are the best. 😍
October 6, 2025
Audio Review:
This audio was again another reason why Adriana Locke is a must buy on my shelf. Her story telling in this book was perfect. Chase a single dad and Megan who hit a crossroad and just trying to figure out her life. Attraction, chemistry, and a deep routed desire and passion for one another. this book is filled with the challenges, but the sweet love that we love to read. Narrators Maxine Mitchell and Tor Thom are always enjoyable to listen to and the bring life to the stories that I soak up. Another amazing audio to add to their ever growing list of work.
This audio was again another reason why Adriana Locke is a must buy on my shelf. Her story telling in this book was perfect. Chase a single dad and Megan who hit a crossroad and just trying to figure out her life. Attraction, chemistry, and a deep routed desire and passion for one another. this book is filled with the challenges, but the sweet love that we love to read. Narrators Maxine Mitchell and Tor Thom are always enjoyable to listen to and the bring life to the stories that I soak up. Another amazing audio to add to their ever growing list of work.
September 21, 2025
100% Feel Good Escape from Reality
I think this book is exactly what the author wanted it to be and I here for it! The characters couldn’t be more likeable in that they all have flaws but are basically the best humans ever. The chemistry between Megan and Chase is off the charts right from the start. Lust at first sight which quickly turns into a forever love. Chase is the sweetest grump in the world who Megan cant help but poke at. Both characters show depth and complexity that helps to balance out some of the more in your face escapism this book offers. There were times that the innuendo was OTT but the conflict and tension was palpable and it leads to the steamiest of steam. I also really enjoyed the relationship that developed between Megan and Kennedy. It was necessary and lovely to read. I am not one for a lot of angst or drawn-out drama so I enjoyed the fast pace of this book and quick resolutions throughout. An easy read that I couldn’t put down.
Edit Review
I think this book is exactly what the author wanted it to be and I here for it! The characters couldn’t be more likeable in that they all have flaws but are basically the best humans ever. The chemistry between Megan and Chase is off the charts right from the start. Lust at first sight which quickly turns into a forever love. Chase is the sweetest grump in the world who Megan cant help but poke at. Both characters show depth and complexity that helps to balance out some of the more in your face escapism this book offers. There were times that the innuendo was OTT but the conflict and tension was palpable and it leads to the steamiest of steam. I also really enjoyed the relationship that developed between Megan and Kennedy. It was necessary and lovely to read. I am not one for a lot of angst or drawn-out drama so I enjoyed the fast pace of this book and quick resolutions throughout. An easy read that I couldn’t put down.
Edit Review
September 25, 2025
I listened to the audio, and I just love Maxine Mitchell. She's so good at not only the male voice, but also does great kids. I actually would have preferred her to read the entire story, the male narrator is not my favorite. He either over acts, or he's over edited. He doesn't have good conversational flow, most of his sentences are a hard stop. Loved the story! I love a good found family situation, and I loved how Megan was woth Kennedy.
September 25, 2025
I listened to the audio, and I just love Maxine Mitchell. She's so good at not only the male voice, but also does great kids. I actually would have preferred her to read the entire story, the male narrator is not my favorite. He either over acts, or he's over edited. He doesn't have good conversational flow, most of his sentences are a hard stop. Loved the story! I love a good found family situation, and I loved how Megan was woth Kennedy.
September 27, 2025
Very cute small town story between a grumpy single dad and the sort of nanny. Megan is spending the month babysitting but not really as the child in question is 14. The teenager was refreshing instead of the nanny/baby/savior trope. The problems were real and the Marshall family great.
Maxine Mitchell and Tor Thom do an excellent job narrating this dual audiobook. They really brought Megan and Chase to life and were a joy to listen to.
Maxine Mitchell and Tor Thom do an excellent job narrating this dual audiobook. They really brought Megan and Chase to life and were a joy to listen to.
October 5, 2025
4 stars
No one does small town family drama/romance like Adriana Locke! This is the beginning of a new one, and I loved it.
Grumpy Cat and trying to be Sunshine but with a miserable backstory. Perfect.
Add in teenage angst (warranted in this case, but we don’t know it until the end), so good.
Drama. Lighthearted brothers for side characters. Meaningful parents/grandparents.
I’m so looking forward to the other brothers’ books.
No one does small town family drama/romance like Adriana Locke! This is the beginning of a new one, and I loved it.
Grumpy Cat and trying to be Sunshine but with a miserable backstory. Perfect.
Add in teenage angst (warranted in this case, but we don’t know it until the end), so good.
Drama. Lighthearted brothers for side characters. Meaningful parents/grandparents.
I’m so looking forward to the other brothers’ books.
November 13, 2025
A very DEE - LICIOUS read!!
Ms. Adriana Locke knows how to write a yummy read! I thoroughly enjoyed “Tempt” and the main characters Chase & Meagan, but actually ALL of it was outstanding. From the very start my interest was captured and it remained so until the end. It doesn’t bother me in the least to anticipate the outcome because I love seeing how it is achieved. An awesome story with a beautiful love story! Well done, Miss Addy!!
Ms. Adriana Locke knows how to write a yummy read! I thoroughly enjoyed “Tempt” and the main characters Chase & Meagan, but actually ALL of it was outstanding. From the very start my interest was captured and it remained so until the end. It doesn’t bother me in the least to anticipate the outcome because I love seeing how it is achieved. An awesome story with a beautiful love story! Well done, Miss Addy!!
December 23, 2025
Tempt is the first book in the Peackwood Falls series. It is a single dad/nanny, love at first sight, grumpy/sunshine, age gap, small town romance. This story had it all, it was touching and heartfelt. You gat witty banter, sizzling hot chemistry and all the feels. Chase and Megan were adorable together. Add in his teen daughter Kennedy and I really enjoyed this one.
Maxine Mitchell and Tor Thom did a good job with these characters and this story.
Maxine Mitchell and Tor Thom did a good job with these characters and this story.
September 27, 2025
Look, Adriana cannot miss for me. Every single book is 5 stars.
This one I was worried about, a 14 year old kid in the story felt like it could get weird- I mean we all know what teenage girls are like. But this was amazingly well done! I loved the angst in Kennedy, the desperate desire to be understood and finally finding someone who took the time to consider her.
The single father dynamic here was so real, the struggles he was facing, the amazing village he had to support him. I loved it so much.
This one I was worried about, a 14 year old kid in the story felt like it could get weird- I mean we all know what teenage girls are like. But this was amazingly well done! I loved the angst in Kennedy, the desperate desire to be understood and finally finding someone who took the time to consider her.
The single father dynamic here was so real, the struggles he was facing, the amazing village he had to support him. I loved it so much.
September 25, 2025
OMG Chase + Megan's meet cute is the best! I loved Megan and Kennedy's relationship. Seeing Megan be exactly who Kennedy needed to stand up for her and also help guide her through all the feelings teen girls go through that her dad couldn't. I love STRONG BA heroine like Megan. Yes the story is about Chase and Megan but I love how Adriana writes the best family
characters. Lending to a laugh out loud humor and smack you in the head family dynamics!!
characters. Lending to a laugh out loud humor and smack you in the head family dynamics!!
September 28, 2025
cringy
I couldn’t get past 45% with this. It had so much potential but the dialogue between Megan and Chase became so incredibly cringy once they acknowledged their attraction for each other. There was no tension or chemistry— just them saying gross things to each other. I don’t have anything against dirty talk, but it was just icky here.
I couldn’t get past 45% with this. It had so much potential but the dialogue between Megan and Chase became so incredibly cringy once they acknowledged their attraction for each other. There was no tension or chemistry— just them saying gross things to each other. I don’t have anything against dirty talk, but it was just icky here.
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