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Sunset Siesta #1
Better than Never
She’s my workplace enemy—now my student, and way too tempting. The ocean’s deep, but this forbidden trouble runs deeper.
Eli:
In our small town of Dove Key, Julianne Verne and I are known for one thing. We clash spectacularly over every aspect of my family's resort where we both work. She's the meticulously organized accountant thriving on order, while I'm the laid-back dive instructor thriving on anything but. We're fire and ice in the Florida Keys, enemies and opposites in every way.
But now, I'm her unwilling scuba instructor for a wild wedding stunt. The close proximity is doing dangerous things to our long-standing animosity. Suddenly, her knife-sharp wit sounds more like playful banter. Our intense glares are looking a lot like smoldering glances. Then we combust in a beach shack.
This attraction is a forbidden complication I don't need. Especially with Mom's no-workplace-romances rule threatening to capsize everything. But I'm starting to think this captivating, infuriating woman might be the one adventure I can't resist.
TROPE LIST:
❤️ENEMIES TO LOVERS
❤️SMALL TOWN ROMANCE
❤️OPPOSITES ATTRACT
❤️STANDALONE SERIES STARTER
❤️FOUND FAMILY
❤️FORBIDDEN ROMANCE
❤️WORKPLACE ROMANCE
❤️STEAMY AND SWEET
❤️IRRESISTIBLE SETTING
❤️BANTER!
Read BETTER THAN NEVER, book one of the interconnected small-town Sunset Siesta series, and discover why sometimes the best adventures begin with your worst enemy.
Eli:
In our small town of Dove Key, Julianne Verne and I are known for one thing. We clash spectacularly over every aspect of my family's resort where we both work. She's the meticulously organized accountant thriving on order, while I'm the laid-back dive instructor thriving on anything but. We're fire and ice in the Florida Keys, enemies and opposites in every way.
But now, I'm her unwilling scuba instructor for a wild wedding stunt. The close proximity is doing dangerous things to our long-standing animosity. Suddenly, her knife-sharp wit sounds more like playful banter. Our intense glares are looking a lot like smoldering glances. Then we combust in a beach shack.
This attraction is a forbidden complication I don't need. Especially with Mom's no-workplace-romances rule threatening to capsize everything. But I'm starting to think this captivating, infuriating woman might be the one adventure I can't resist.
TROPE LIST:
❤️ENEMIES TO LOVERS
❤️SMALL TOWN ROMANCE
❤️OPPOSITES ATTRACT
❤️STANDALONE SERIES STARTER
❤️FOUND FAMILY
❤️FORBIDDEN ROMANCE
❤️WORKPLACE ROMANCE
❤️STEAMY AND SWEET
❤️IRRESISTIBLE SETTING
❤️BANTER!
Read BETTER THAN NEVER, book one of the interconnected small-town Sunset Siesta series, and discover why sometimes the best adventures begin with your worst enemy.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2025
About the author
Erin Brockus
31 books832 followersErin Brockus writes steamy small-town romance with a tropical twist. Her tight-knit island communities have all the charm and heat of your favorite small town, plus an ocean right outside the door. Her characters are smart, grounded women and the irresistible men who can't stay away from them—the kind of people you actually want to grab a drink with.
What sets Erin apart? Her stories go underwater. Drawing on her real-life passion for scuba diving and international travel, she builds worlds that feel like a vacation you never want to end. Her stories are full of salt air, adventure, and steamy tension that finally ignites.
She lives in Washington wine country with her husband, who is also a scuba instructor. When she's not sending her characters on island adventures, she's running, mountain biking, or enjoying a good book with a cup of coffee.
Erin Brockus—where passion meets paradise.
What sets Erin apart? Her stories go underwater. Drawing on her real-life passion for scuba diving and international travel, she builds worlds that feel like a vacation you never want to end. Her stories are full of salt air, adventure, and steamy tension that finally ignites.
She lives in Washington wine country with her husband, who is also a scuba instructor. When she's not sending her characters on island adventures, she's running, mountain biking, or enjoying a good book with a cup of coffee.
Erin Brockus—where passion meets paradise.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
February 8, 2026
Book Review
Better Than Never
A Novel Written By Erin Brockus
Fiction - Romance
Published 2025
352 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a new series for this author. This book has everything readers can expect from an Erin Brockus novel. There is a beautiful beach setting in the Florida Keys. The characters are part of a strong family unit. Scuba diving is involved with beautiful descriptions of ocean life. There is drama, romance, and spice.
This is a story of opposites blending together. Two characters, Eli Coleridge and Julianne Verne, are polar opposites. He is the fun loving beach bum who is the scuba diving instructor at his family’s resort. She is the by the book accountant at the resort. Sometimes oil and vinegar can mix together. Sparks do fly between these two as they defy the no workplace romance rule at the resort.
“Sometimes you’ve gotta take risks, … Even if it’s scary. You never know what might happen.”
Better Than Never
A Novel Written By Erin Brockus
Fiction - Romance
Published 2025
352 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a new series for this author. This book has everything readers can expect from an Erin Brockus novel. There is a beautiful beach setting in the Florida Keys. The characters are part of a strong family unit. Scuba diving is involved with beautiful descriptions of ocean life. There is drama, romance, and spice.
This is a story of opposites blending together. Two characters, Eli Coleridge and Julianne Verne, are polar opposites. He is the fun loving beach bum who is the scuba diving instructor at his family’s resort. She is the by the book accountant at the resort. Sometimes oil and vinegar can mix together. Sparks do fly between these two as they defy the no workplace romance rule at the resort.
“Sometimes you’ve gotta take risks, … Even if it’s scary. You never know what might happen.”
October 29, 2025
5 Star Review Better Than Never (Sunset Siesta #1) by Erin Brockus
I love small town stories, particularly ones set in exotic locations such as Dove Key. With descriptive writing you can imagine yourself there.
This is divemaster Eli Coleridge and Julianne “Jules” Verne’s enemies to lovers story that ticked all the boxes for me.
These two are total opposites and yet they are well suited to one another. The chemistry between them is palpable and once they cross the line, all bets are off.
What follows is an entertaining, well written story with plenty of heart and passion.
I love small town stories, particularly ones set in exotic locations such as Dove Key. With descriptive writing you can imagine yourself there.
This is divemaster Eli Coleridge and Julianne “Jules” Verne’s enemies to lovers story that ticked all the boxes for me.
These two are total opposites and yet they are well suited to one another. The chemistry between them is palpable and once they cross the line, all bets are off.
What follows is an entertaining, well written story with plenty of heart and passion.
November 3, 2025
Eli Coleridge and Julianne Verne are opposites in every way imaginable. He’s the easygoing dive instructor who thrives beneath the waves; she’s the structured, detail-obsessed accountant keeping the family resort afloat. For years, they’ve butted heads with enough friction to light up the entire island. But when Jules signs up for dive certification—and Eli becomes her instructor—their stormy rivalry turns into something far more dangerous: attraction.
I adored the enemies-to-lovers tension here. Brockus captures that slow, sizzling transition from frustration to fascination so naturally that you can practically feel the shift in the ocean air. Their chemistry is undeniable, but what makes it sing is how earned it feels—how these two opposites slowly start to see what’s beneath each other’s surfaces.
Eli especially won me over. At first glance, he’s painted as the carefree, unserious “beach bum,” but Brockus subtly peels back those layers to reveal a man of skill, integrity, and quiet strength. Being a dive instructor takes precision, patience, and courage—all of which Eli has in spades. Watching him finally recognize his own worth was one of the most satisfying arcs of the story.
Jules, on the other hand, is tightly wound and beautifully human. Her need for control makes perfect sense once you understand what drives it. Beneath that crisp exterior lies an adventurer waiting to surface, and Eli is the one who helps her take that first breath of freedom. Her journey—from safe and cautious to open and daring—was both frustrating and deeply relatable.
Then there’s Helen, Eli’s mother—a masterclass in how to write a complex antagonist. She’s manipulative and cold, wielding guilt like an anchor to keep her family tethered to her fears. And yet, Brockus doesn’t make her a caricature; she’s real, flawed, and heartbreakingly stuck in the past. Even if her redemption felt too little too late, her presence adds real emotional weight to Eli and Jules’s story.
This isn’t a perfect book—it meanders in places, and a few pacing dips slowed the momentum—but the emotional payoff is worth every page. The underwater scenes are breathtaking; Brockus makes you feel the wonder and stillness of diving, as if you’re suspended in the same moment Eli and Jules share beneath the waves.
By the end, what stays with you isn’t just the romance—it’s the message. Better Than Never reminds us that love isn’t about perfection or control; it’s about trust, surrender, and the courage to take the plunge.
A heartfelt, sun-soaked enemies-to-lovers story with emotional depth and irresistible Florida charm. Eli and Jules are proof that sometimes, the best kind of love is the one that surfaces when you finally stop fighting the current.
**Perfect for readers who love:**
🌊 Tropical small towns
💔 Enemies-to-lovers tension
🫶 Found family dynamics
🔥 Emotional slow burns
📘 Strong, character-driven romance arcs.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I adored the enemies-to-lovers tension here. Brockus captures that slow, sizzling transition from frustration to fascination so naturally that you can practically feel the shift in the ocean air. Their chemistry is undeniable, but what makes it sing is how earned it feels—how these two opposites slowly start to see what’s beneath each other’s surfaces.
Eli especially won me over. At first glance, he’s painted as the carefree, unserious “beach bum,” but Brockus subtly peels back those layers to reveal a man of skill, integrity, and quiet strength. Being a dive instructor takes precision, patience, and courage—all of which Eli has in spades. Watching him finally recognize his own worth was one of the most satisfying arcs of the story.
Jules, on the other hand, is tightly wound and beautifully human. Her need for control makes perfect sense once you understand what drives it. Beneath that crisp exterior lies an adventurer waiting to surface, and Eli is the one who helps her take that first breath of freedom. Her journey—from safe and cautious to open and daring—was both frustrating and deeply relatable.
Then there’s Helen, Eli’s mother—a masterclass in how to write a complex antagonist. She’s manipulative and cold, wielding guilt like an anchor to keep her family tethered to her fears. And yet, Brockus doesn’t make her a caricature; she’s real, flawed, and heartbreakingly stuck in the past. Even if her redemption felt too little too late, her presence adds real emotional weight to Eli and Jules’s story.
This isn’t a perfect book—it meanders in places, and a few pacing dips slowed the momentum—but the emotional payoff is worth every page. The underwater scenes are breathtaking; Brockus makes you feel the wonder and stillness of diving, as if you’re suspended in the same moment Eli and Jules share beneath the waves.
By the end, what stays with you isn’t just the romance—it’s the message. Better Than Never reminds us that love isn’t about perfection or control; it’s about trust, surrender, and the courage to take the plunge.
A heartfelt, sun-soaked enemies-to-lovers story with emotional depth and irresistible Florida charm. Eli and Jules are proof that sometimes, the best kind of love is the one that surfaces when you finally stop fighting the current.
**Perfect for readers who love:**
🌊 Tropical small towns
💔 Enemies-to-lovers tension
🫶 Found family dynamics
🔥 Emotional slow burns
📘 Strong, character-driven romance arcs.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2025
I loved Jules (even at her most uptight) and Eli (even at his most beach bum casual). I wasn’t sure how much I would at first. Their interactions felt like bickering middle schoolers. When they finally started working together I was happy and as surprised as they were how easy it was between them. They each had their personal issues with commitment and didn’t know how they wanted to proceed with their relationship, but knew they wanted to be together and worked hard to overcome their shortcomings. I really loved the bits where Jules and Eli are going through the certification classes and Jules is learning to dive. Erin always does such an amazing job making you feel like you are underwater with them.
The one thing that I couldn’t get past was how much I loathed Eli’s mom, Helen. She was cold and weak and manipulative, hiding it behind the guise of “I’m looking out for you” and “it’s for the best” while punishing Eli and Jules for her own fears and shortcomings and things from the past. I hated how everyone put her on such a pedestal. She was holding them all back and keeping them from making progress in restoring the resort to what it should be. She appeared to learn the error of her ways, but all the while still tried to justify her abysmal behavior. By that time she had already ruined any hope of redemption in my eyes. I hope that I forget some of my animosity towards her before the next book.
The one thing that I couldn’t get past was how much I loathed Eli’s mom, Helen. She was cold and weak and manipulative, hiding it behind the guise of “I’m looking out for you” and “it’s for the best” while punishing Eli and Jules for her own fears and shortcomings and things from the past. I hated how everyone put her on such a pedestal. She was holding them all back and keeping them from making progress in restoring the resort to what it should be. She appeared to learn the error of her ways, but all the while still tried to justify her abysmal behavior. By that time she had already ruined any hope of redemption in my eyes. I hope that I forget some of my animosity towards her before the next book.
October 25, 2025
A brand new series in Dove Key from Erin, and its great to be back in the tropical climates! Eli is the dive master at Sunset Siesta, a family run resort, currently struggling financially and in need of modernization. Most of the Coleridge siblings have a hand in the resort and I'm looking forward to reading each one of their HEAs! Julianne is the financial accountant for the resort and has always been at loggerheads with Eli, they are the complete opposite. They have been enemies for many years, but when Jules is forced to take a dive certification by her best friend, things start to change between Eli and Jules. Things get hot and heavy fast but Eli's mum has a hard rule against workplace romances - it's strictly forbidden. These two journey to their HEA is marred by some many external factors but most of all, their own feelings and being scared of them. Loved the references to the author Jules Verne and their adventures and how Eli circles back to the scavenger hunt for Jules. Can't wait to read more from the Coleridges!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
November 7, 2025
We are in Dove Key at the Sunset Siesta Resort owned by the Coleridges. Eli Coleridge is over the dive operations at Sunset Siesta. He needs money for some new dive a equipment and must go to the last person he wants to go to about it. Julianne Verne is the bookkeeper at the resort. She keeps those purse strings tight and allows the resort to continue to run. The budget is tight and Julianne has to be tough and make some hard decisions. Denying Eli's requests were not personal, but it is sure felt like it to Eli. These two both rubbed the other the wrong way. They both refused to get to know the other as well.
Everything was going as normal until Julianne needed a favor. She needed to learn to dive. Eli took this opportunity to get the dive equipment he so desperately needed. During lessons, Eli and Julianne got to know each other better. They discovered that they liked each other more than they ever dreamed they could. There was something else stopping them from getting closer. Eli's mother had a hard rule about workplace relationships. Is their relationship worth the risk? This book explores the discovery of both main characters. Both have trauma from relationships that could cause them to walk away from something special. What will happen when a choice has to be made? Sunset Siesta has become Julianne's home and is Eli's family's legacy. Both have a lot on the line.
Everything was going as normal until Julianne needed a favor. She needed to learn to dive. Eli took this opportunity to get the dive equipment he so desperately needed. During lessons, Eli and Julianne got to know each other better. They discovered that they liked each other more than they ever dreamed they could. There was something else stopping them from getting closer. Eli's mother had a hard rule about workplace relationships. Is their relationship worth the risk? This book explores the discovery of both main characters. Both have trauma from relationships that could cause them to walk away from something special. What will happen when a choice has to be made? Sunset Siesta has become Julianne's home and is Eli's family's legacy. Both have a lot on the line.
October 29, 2025
This is the second book in this impressive series, and this is Eli and Julianne / Jules’ story.
Eli is the laid-back dive instructor at his family’s resort, while Jules is the meticulously organized accountant. These two butt heads at every turn, and they clash spectacularly over every aspect about the resort where they both work. When Eli becomes Jules’ unwilling scuba instructor for a wild wedding stunt, their chemistry explodes.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, bickering, enemies / lovers, forbidden workplace romance, close proximity, opposites attract, animosity, humor, witty banter, challenges, combustible chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and heartwarming, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Eli is the laid-back dive instructor at his family’s resort, while Jules is the meticulously organized accountant. These two butt heads at every turn, and they clash spectacularly over every aspect about the resort where they both work. When Eli becomes Jules’ unwilling scuba instructor for a wild wedding stunt, their chemistry explodes.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, bickering, enemies / lovers, forbidden workplace romance, close proximity, opposites attract, animosity, humor, witty banter, challenges, combustible chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and heartwarming, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
October 28, 2025
Better Than Never is dive master Eli Coleridge and financial accountant Julianne “Jules” Verne’s enemies to lovers, forbidden romance. It’s book one in the new Sunset Siesta Series set in Dove Key and featuring the Coleridge family. It’s a well written, entertaining read and an exciting start to the series.
Jules is the financial account for the resort and she has butted heads with Eli for years but when she is forced to take a dive certificate by her friend she realises there might be more to the enemy that she has seen…
Eli was always told never mix business with pleasure and that means avoiding Jules but teaching her to dive brings her to close for comfort. So what happens when things heat up between this couple and will it make or break them.
Jules is the financial account for the resort and she has butted heads with Eli for years but when she is forced to take a dive certificate by her friend she realises there might be more to the enemy that she has seen…
Eli was always told never mix business with pleasure and that means avoiding Jules but teaching her to dive brings her to close for comfort. So what happens when things heat up between this couple and will it make or break them.
October 23, 2025
Julianne Verne is an uptight accountant. Eli Coleridge is a beach-bum-ish dive instructor at Siesta Sunset Resort, his family’s resort. They are opposites for sure! It’s amazing what can happen when people and circumstances come together. Time spent might just change things! I enjoyed this slice of life in the Keys, where the people are not all wealthy, where family matters (sometimes too much, it seems), and where the past and future collide. This is Book 1 in author Erin Brockus’ Siesta Sunset series. The Coleridge family have lots of stories to tell. Enjoy Eli and Jules, and then get ready for more!
November 2, 2025
Reignite an adventurous side. A dual POV tale with a laced up accountant and a perpetual beach bum. The characters are very carefully developed to fit into their roles. One as an accountant trying to make all the ends meet above water. The other is a dive instructor who is witty and charming trying to make ends meet below the waves. Thrown together by plans neither controls. Trust is an issue. Commitment is an issue. The future is anything but certain. But together adventure is calling at least one of them. A great story that’s hard to put down. It will have you wishing for sandy beaches, sunshine and spreadsheets!
October 26, 2025
This was a well written, fun in the sun story with depth that makes the reader stop and think a bit about what may be holding us back from happiness. The Coleridge family owns a beachside resort, and is full of a mix of characters who value family over everything. This story focuses on Eli, who runs the scuba dive venue and Jules, the family’s accountant.
Initially clashing, they call a truce during Jules’s best friends’ wedding prep, and the story explores how first impressions aren’t always correct.
There is character growth with both our dual point of view characters, plenty of heart warming moments, and surely more to come from this author with other siblings in the Coleridge family.
Thank you for the arc, I enjoyed the read.
Initially clashing, they call a truce during Jules’s best friends’ wedding prep, and the story explores how first impressions aren’t always correct.
There is character growth with both our dual point of view characters, plenty of heart warming moments, and surely more to come from this author with other siblings in the Coleridge family.
Thank you for the arc, I enjoyed the read.
October 29, 2025
5 Star Review Better Than Never (Sunset Siesta #1) by Erin Brockus
I love small town stories, particularly ones set in exotic locations such as Dove Key. With descriptive writing you can imagine yourself there.
This is divemaster Eli Coleridge and Julianne “Jules” Verne’s enemies to lovers story that ticked all the boxes for me.
These two are total opposites and yet they are well suited to one another. The chemistry between them is palpable and once they cross the line, all bets are off.
What follows is an entertaining, well written story with plenty of heart and passion.
I love small town stories, particularly ones set in exotic locations such as Dove Key. With descriptive writing you can imagine yourself there.
This is divemaster Eli Coleridge and Julianne “Jules” Verne’s enemies to lovers story that ticked all the boxes for me.
These two are total opposites and yet they are well suited to one another. The chemistry between them is palpable and once they cross the line, all bets are off.
What follows is an entertaining, well written story with plenty of heart and passion.
November 10, 2025
What a fun, enemies to lovers story. Sunset siesta is a resort in Florida and the characters in the stores are all part of the resort. First up is Eli, the dive shop manager and Julianne the resorts accountant. Watching their relationship evolve from sniping to not able to stop roaming hands was satisfying. Eli and Jules are so different that they actually work. The rub, the "no fraternization rule" that could be a couple killer. As Eli comes to terms with his feelings, he wins over his mother's support and gets his HEA.
October 29, 2025
Great new series by Erin Brockus called Sunset Siesta.
Eli is the dive instructor at the family resort. He’s easy going and can charm most people but not Julianne.
Julianne is in charge of finance at the resort. To say they dislike each other is putting it mildly.
Sparks fly in a different way when they are forced to spend time together when he’s getting her certification for scuba diving.
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
Eli is the dive instructor at the family resort. He’s easy going and can charm most people but not Julianne.
Julianne is in charge of finance at the resort. To say they dislike each other is putting it mildly.
Sparks fly in a different way when they are forced to spend time together when he’s getting her certification for scuba diving.
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.
October 15, 2025
Another Erin Brockus hit. What a wonderful start to the series. I just love Eli, just my type. A great enemies to lovers story. Two so different characters meshing together in a very interesting way. The underwater scenes were so beautiful This should be put on your definite to be read list you will not be disappointed. thank you for the advanced copy. All thoghts and opinions are my own.
October 20, 2025
Beautiful story
A beautiful heartwarming story of friendship and love. A fabulous start to a new series that will be filled with wonderful characters and heartwarming plots. Erin Brockus is a wonderful author with must-read books!
I read this book as part of an advance reader team. I am voluntarily writing this review.
A beautiful heartwarming story of friendship and love. A fabulous start to a new series that will be filled with wonderful characters and heartwarming plots. Erin Brockus is a wonderful author with must-read books!
I read this book as part of an advance reader team. I am voluntarily writing this review.
November 1, 2025
Jules and Eli ❤️both so different but made for each other. The story is filled with so much love, laughter and great relationships. It shows how even though you are scared, if you take a leap of faith and trust your heart, it will lead you to happiness.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
November 3, 2025
The heat between Eli and Julianne is so hot you can feel it as you read! Once again this author brings the ocean to life while ensnaring you in a great romance. I just love her books and look forward to each new one!I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 27, 2025
A wonderful start to this new series! The enemies to lovers checks all the right boxes. The chemistry between Eli and Jules is electric and loved the way the relationship developed between these two. Between the character growth and the heartwarming moments, I couldn’t get enough.
November 3, 2025
I'm so excited for this new series! A different resort and family in The Keys. If you like tropical romance, this book is for you. Erin builds a great world with a wonderful cast of characters. GO GRAB A COPY TODAY!
January 25, 2026
Eli and Julianne clash over everything. They both work at his parent's resort and while she is more orderly, he is more laid-back. When they work together for a stunt, they start to clash in different ways. Will they give in to their attraction and see what they could have together?
October 30, 2025
Better Than Never is an workplace enemies to lovers romance. I enjoyed the banter and sizzling chemistry. It’s a well written, entertaining read. A great start to a new series.
November 5, 2025
This is a great start to this new series! Right from the beginning we have tension between Eli and Julianne that pulled me right in. I really enjoyed the back and forth between them and how easily buttons can be pushed. Starting as enemies gives these two some amazing heat, with banter that keeps the pages turning. Workplace romances are forbidden so there's some bumps along the way. I love Eli's family and am looking forward to digging into each of them as the series progresses.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 7, 2025
I like the idea of a small family run resort and things that happen in an around it and those involved. The author has done a great job with not only the main characters of Eli and julianne, but also those around them. She has also done a good job with the main issues, being relationship, commitment and interest. However, I found it at times, as a reader that I could feel each characters despair, being drawn into their coexistence.
Jules and Eli are at odds and it is obvious that their relationship, as it develops is going to surprise not just them. They are complete opposites; she is the focused, serious accountant trying to keep the business afloat and he is the coasting, lazy appearing, beach boy expert diving instructor struggling with pushing the business forward due to cash flow. Their relationship is encouraged by Lacey's plans for an underwater wedding.
About half way through, I wanted to give Lacey a good shake. Her attitude of it all coming together boarders on careless regard for others. She can't make her mind up on venue etc., has off the cuff ideas and whims, seems blatantly oblivious to her decisions on others and expectations that it will all come together by magic.
The mother is resistant and reluctant to accept change, despite acknowledging it is needed but has her reasons to hesitate, which are understandable but lacking commitment. Her family runs the resort but she won't relinquish full control, flipping between confirmation and indecision.
Harper has to deal with it all as resort manager whilst has more than just the guests to keep happy.
Chase has been involved with the family for years and is brought in for his professional skills and experience.
Will it all turn out right in the end..will they all get satisfaction..what else will be coming in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jules and Eli are at odds and it is obvious that their relationship, as it develops is going to surprise not just them. They are complete opposites; she is the focused, serious accountant trying to keep the business afloat and he is the coasting, lazy appearing, beach boy expert diving instructor struggling with pushing the business forward due to cash flow. Their relationship is encouraged by Lacey's plans for an underwater wedding.
About half way through, I wanted to give Lacey a good shake. Her attitude of it all coming together boarders on careless regard for others. She can't make her mind up on venue etc., has off the cuff ideas and whims, seems blatantly oblivious to her decisions on others and expectations that it will all come together by magic.
The mother is resistant and reluctant to accept change, despite acknowledging it is needed but has her reasons to hesitate, which are understandable but lacking commitment. Her family runs the resort but she won't relinquish full control, flipping between confirmation and indecision.
Harper has to deal with it all as resort manager whilst has more than just the guests to keep happy.
Chase has been involved with the family for years and is brought in for his professional skills and experience.
Will it all turn out right in the end..will they all get satisfaction..what else will be coming in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 27, 2025
I like the enemies to lovers / opposites attract trope and Eli and Jules fit the bill. However, I think that Eli is mistakenly given the carefree, unserious beach bum vibe too much. It is overplayed and his occupation is downplayed to the point of insulting. To be a dive instructor takes a great deal of skill and attention to be a competent and safe diver and instructor. I think even Eli's family is insulting by not appreciating that Eli found an occupation that he absolutely enjoys. Eventually, the story rolls around to seeing Eli in a more accurate light. Even the self-deprecating Eli stops thinking he is a less than kind of man.
Jules is a cautious character and for good reason. Jules needs to have control, structure and safety that's why accounting is a good fit for her, but deep down Jules hides an inner adventurer that Eli brings to life. She couldn't be more different than Eli's 'go with the flow' mentality. She does get a bit annoying with her constant second guessing, but it isn't as frustrating as Eli's mischaracterization.
Eli's mother, Helen is another story all together and she plays a significant role in Jules and Eli's relationship. She is an unwavering woman that is stuck in the past and controls her family and resort with it. It is a sad story that unfolds slowly and eventually circumstances with the family help her see a more positive way of thinking.
This book is the first in a new series and it is the first book I have read from this author. I found a few references to past events, relationships and people that may be from another book or series or just isn't explained within the context of this book.
Overall, the book is good. It frustrated me at times and seemed to have a few slow moving sections, but the love story is solid as well as the happy ending.
Jules is a cautious character and for good reason. Jules needs to have control, structure and safety that's why accounting is a good fit for her, but deep down Jules hides an inner adventurer that Eli brings to life. She couldn't be more different than Eli's 'go with the flow' mentality. She does get a bit annoying with her constant second guessing, but it isn't as frustrating as Eli's mischaracterization.
Eli's mother, Helen is another story all together and she plays a significant role in Jules and Eli's relationship. She is an unwavering woman that is stuck in the past and controls her family and resort with it. It is a sad story that unfolds slowly and eventually circumstances with the family help her see a more positive way of thinking.
This book is the first in a new series and it is the first book I have read from this author. I found a few references to past events, relationships and people that may be from another book or series or just isn't explained within the context of this book.
Overall, the book is good. It frustrated me at times and seemed to have a few slow moving sections, but the love story is solid as well as the happy ending.
October 22, 2025
There’s nothing more entertaining than watching two opposites slowly fall in love, and my first Erin Brockus book gave me that and more. He’s a laid-back, charming diving instructor. She’s a buttoned-up, serious accountant. At the resort where they worked, there was one rule: “Never, ever get involved with anyone from work.” Not even if you are the owner’s son.
Eli loves his job, but he hides behind humor to hide his vulnerability and stays far away from serious relationships. Then there is Julianne Verne, affectionately known as Jules, but not by him. She’s serious about her job, doesn’t trust easily, and she’s been busting her butt to make sure the resort not only survives but thrives. But with finances tight, she’s had to make some tough sacrifices, including denying Eli money he needs to replace outdated equipment.
These two are like oil and water, but their chemistry is off the charts! When they think it’s safe to get close, they remember that little rule that looms over them like a cloud. There is a reason for the rule because the company and Eli’s family spiraled into chaos.
I liked the idea of an underwater wedding as an icebreaker for the maid of honor to call a truce with the annoying dive instructor. The more they’re together, the more Eli and Jules struggle to keep their budding relationship under wraps until they have to choose to stay together or end their relationship.
This is a fun story that offers an escape to a dreamy tropical paradise while following a forbidden romance with two opposites who bring out the best in each other. I look forward to more books in this series.
For more of my reviews, visit The Eclectic Review.
Eli loves his job, but he hides behind humor to hide his vulnerability and stays far away from serious relationships. Then there is Julianne Verne, affectionately known as Jules, but not by him. She’s serious about her job, doesn’t trust easily, and she’s been busting her butt to make sure the resort not only survives but thrives. But with finances tight, she’s had to make some tough sacrifices, including denying Eli money he needs to replace outdated equipment.
These two are like oil and water, but their chemistry is off the charts! When they think it’s safe to get close, they remember that little rule that looms over them like a cloud. There is a reason for the rule because the company and Eli’s family spiraled into chaos.
I liked the idea of an underwater wedding as an icebreaker for the maid of honor to call a truce with the annoying dive instructor. The more they’re together, the more Eli and Jules struggle to keep their budding relationship under wraps until they have to choose to stay together or end their relationship.
This is a fun story that offers an escape to a dreamy tropical paradise while following a forbidden romance with two opposites who bring out the best in each other. I look forward to more books in this series.
For more of my reviews, visit The Eclectic Review.
October 22, 2025
There is the one rule with the company that mom has stated numerous times, never, ever get involved with another person in the company. After all hadn’t it happened before and let to a complete disaster they are still recovering from? The problem with that is Eli couldn’t help it, there was just something about Julianne Verne aka Jules, that he couldn’t stop feeling even though not long ago they were battling with each other over money & things needed for the resort. Eli is all for breaking rules and hiding secrets but the problem is when it all comes out who will hurt the most?
Julianne tried everything to make sure the resort was going to make it, but sadly things were tight, really tight. She even had to sacrifice getting a much needed new computer in order to keep a staff member full time. So when Eli came to her with a big order in diving equipment they needed to survive, she said no, a hard no. But after becoming one of his diving students because her bff wanted to do an underwater wedding, she realized they did need it. The problem wasn’t just finding the money, but also making sure the connection between them didn’t happen. The more time they spent together, the harder it was to separate because they had this incredible chemistry.
This is a great series that allows you to escape to this tropical place and relax for awhile, while enjoying a romance. Can’t wait to see who Erin will be writing about next because you can definitely feel some more connections are in there in this series.
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Julianne tried everything to make sure the resort was going to make it, but sadly things were tight, really tight. She even had to sacrifice getting a much needed new computer in order to keep a staff member full time. So when Eli came to her with a big order in diving equipment they needed to survive, she said no, a hard no. But after becoming one of his diving students because her bff wanted to do an underwater wedding, she realized they did need it. The problem wasn’t just finding the money, but also making sure the connection between them didn’t happen. The more time they spent together, the harder it was to separate because they had this incredible chemistry.
This is a great series that allows you to escape to this tropical place and relax for awhile, while enjoying a romance. Can’t wait to see who Erin will be writing about next because you can definitely feel some more connections are in there in this series.
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 2, 2025
Eli’s family owns the local resort in Dove Cove, and he runs the dive shop and scuba classes. Julianne—“Jules”—is their meticulous accountant, and boy, do these two clash. Eli is laid-back, the kind of guy who believes if duct tape can’t fix it or a beer can’t solve it, you’re overthinking. Jules, on the other hand, watches every penny and often puts the resort’s needs ahead of her own.
Their differences frustrate each other—but also spark intrigue. When Jules signs up for dive lessons as part of her matron-of-honor duties, the chemistry between them ignites. As they spend more time together, their connection deepens, leading to a secret relationship—because Eli’s mom is firmly against workplace romances.
There are no love triangles or outside drama, but his mother’s disapproval creates tension that fractures their bond. Eli must show Jules how much he’s grown—emotionally and relationally—and what she truly means to him. In the end, he not only proves his love and commitment in a beautiful way but also convinces his mom that he and Jules are the real thing.
Brockus delivers a romance filled with humor and emotional depth, exploring the intricacies of secret relationships, family dynamics, and learning to believe in your “other half.” Authentic portrayals of Eli and Jules make their journey compelling, while siblings and friends add rich layers to the story.
Their differences frustrate each other—but also spark intrigue. When Jules signs up for dive lessons as part of her matron-of-honor duties, the chemistry between them ignites. As they spend more time together, their connection deepens, leading to a secret relationship—because Eli’s mom is firmly against workplace romances.
There are no love triangles or outside drama, but his mother’s disapproval creates tension that fractures their bond. Eli must show Jules how much he’s grown—emotionally and relationally—and what she truly means to him. In the end, he not only proves his love and commitment in a beautiful way but also convinces his mom that he and Jules are the real thing.
Brockus delivers a romance filled with humor and emotional depth, exploring the intricacies of secret relationships, family dynamics, and learning to believe in your “other half.” Authentic portrayals of Eli and Jules make their journey compelling, while siblings and friends add rich layers to the story.
October 14, 2025
I have loved every book by Erin Brockus, but when I started reading Better Than Never, I wondered if that streak would end. I was not immediately a fan of Eli, the Sunset Siesta dive instructor. He seemed to be very immature, happy-go-lucky, and made a joke out of everything.
Eli butts heads with Julianne, the Sunset Siesta accountant, thinking she is too straight-laced and too tight with the money that is needed for upgrades and improvements. He doesn't seem to understand much about the running of a business, even though this business belongs to his family.
Julianne, or Jules, isn't a big fan of Eli either! But, slowly, the ice begins to melt, from both directions.
As I read more of the story, it became clear why Eli acted the way he did, and I started liking him a bit more. Especially when you could tell he was really trying to change.
The biggest change seemed insurmountable for Eli - would he be able to stand up to his mother, and ignore the 'no relationships with co-workers' policy?
As always, the descriptions of the Keys, both underwater and above, were striking and will have you feeling like you are there! The story, and how everything played out, was excellent. I highly recommend you read this book!
I received an ARC of this book - these opinions are my own!
Eli butts heads with Julianne, the Sunset Siesta accountant, thinking she is too straight-laced and too tight with the money that is needed for upgrades and improvements. He doesn't seem to understand much about the running of a business, even though this business belongs to his family.
Julianne, or Jules, isn't a big fan of Eli either! But, slowly, the ice begins to melt, from both directions.
As I read more of the story, it became clear why Eli acted the way he did, and I started liking him a bit more. Especially when you could tell he was really trying to change.
The biggest change seemed insurmountable for Eli - would he be able to stand up to his mother, and ignore the 'no relationships with co-workers' policy?
As always, the descriptions of the Keys, both underwater and above, were striking and will have you feeling like you are there! The story, and how everything played out, was excellent. I highly recommend you read this book!
I received an ARC of this book - these opinions are my own!
October 11, 2025
Erin's gift to describe the first feelings of open water dives is incredible. Erin was able to put into words exactly what I personally felt on my first deep open dive. Her gift of verbalizing emotion is rare, and so far through this book, she has been a master at it. The betrayal of a spouse leaving, the fractures from trusting those close to you and the firm rules that have to be put in place, to ensure a continued existence of your future. When you have been burned emotionally, financially, it is very difficult to except changes but if you never change the past will eat you as they have all found out through the crumbling of the resort. As one chapter brings out you can only repair so many times before there is nothing left to repair. I loved the under currants from the other family members helping us as readers to look for future books .
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