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The Valentine’s Date
Two “anonymous” singles looking for distraction. One Valentine’s Day match.
When they’re forced to work side by side planning the launch party for her family bakery, keeping things “professional” for Chloe and Ryan quickly becomes a losing battle.
Things really heat up when they realise their Valentine’s date wasn’t so anonymous after all. What felt safe and irresistible behind a screen suddenly comes with rules, risks, and very real temptation—and resisting each other might be harder than giving in.
Sweet, spicy, and full of heart, The Valentine’s Date is a story of chosen family, unexpected love, and risking everything for a happily ever after.
When they’re forced to work side by side planning the launch party for her family bakery, keeping things “professional” for Chloe and Ryan quickly becomes a losing battle.
Things really heat up when they realise their Valentine’s date wasn’t so anonymous after all. What felt safe and irresistible behind a screen suddenly comes with rules, risks, and very real temptation—and resisting each other might be harder than giving in.
Sweet, spicy, and full of heart, The Valentine’s Date is a story of chosen family, unexpected love, and risking everything for a happily ever after.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2026
9 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
February 16, 2026
a lovely read!
a good level of slowburn to smut!
a good level of slowburn to smut!
January 22, 2026
Ellie has written a fun, exciting valentines romance and I urge each and every one of you to read it!
I was kindly sent an ARC to read and its safe to say I loved it! Whilst I do have one of Ellies books on my shelves, this is the first one I have actually read (mood reader issues, oops). And its safe to say I will be sticking around and become a lifetime fan if The Valentine's Date is anything to go by.
This was sweet and incredibly spicy but it all flowed well and worked together where it wasn't overwhelmingly smutty. I loved the dynamic of forbidden love and brothers best friend between Ryan and Chloe. It made it all the more exciting to read! And ryan with those glasses, damn the man can cause a swoon!
I loved the whole vibe Chloe gave too, it felt so real and natural. I felt like I was reading about a real couple in London rather than a fictional story. I definitely need to go back and read Max and Ava's story and everybody else! but despite not reading Ellies other books I did not feel like I was missing any key information that some interconnected books do. Ellie is also a local author to me, so it was nice to support someone from the same area! it truly is a small world.
I also cant wait to see what Roman's story brings!
I definitely recommend you all to read this when it publishes on the 1st of February! Thank you again Ellie!
I was kindly sent an ARC to read and its safe to say I loved it! Whilst I do have one of Ellies books on my shelves, this is the first one I have actually read (mood reader issues, oops). And its safe to say I will be sticking around and become a lifetime fan if The Valentine's Date is anything to go by.
This was sweet and incredibly spicy but it all flowed well and worked together where it wasn't overwhelmingly smutty. I loved the dynamic of forbidden love and brothers best friend between Ryan and Chloe. It made it all the more exciting to read! And ryan with those glasses, damn the man can cause a swoon!
I loved the whole vibe Chloe gave too, it felt so real and natural. I felt like I was reading about a real couple in London rather than a fictional story. I definitely need to go back and read Max and Ava's story and everybody else! but despite not reading Ellies other books I did not feel like I was missing any key information that some interconnected books do. Ellie is also a local author to me, so it was nice to support someone from the same area! it truly is a small world.
I also cant wait to see what Roman's story brings!
I definitely recommend you all to read this when it publishes on the 1st of February! Thank you again Ellie!
February 10, 2026
I was given this as an ARC and loved reading Ryan and Chloe’s story. Their chemistry was so fun, and I was smiling through so many of their scenes. Ryan and his Clark Kent vibe had me hooked.
I’m really glad I read Not Love Actually first before jumping into this one because it made the experience even better.
This book had some of my favorite tropes:
✨ Brothers Best Friend
✨Age Gap
✨Forced Proximity
I’d definitely recommend reading both books together although it can be read as a stand alone.
I’m really glad I read Not Love Actually first before jumping into this one because it made the experience even better.
This book had some of my favorite tropes:
✨ Brothers Best Friend
✨Age Gap
✨Forced Proximity
I’d definitely recommend reading both books together although it can be read as a stand alone.
February 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️.5
✨Brothers Best Friend
✨Age Gap
✨Anonymous Chatting
✨Found Family
Charming romance set in London. I loved Ryan and Chloe’s first meeting, such a meet cute! I loved watching them finally give in to their feelings despite what they might lose. I also really enjoyed the ‘twist’, you don’t usually see a shocking twist in a romance but this one shocked me. The spice was great too
✨Brothers Best Friend
✨Age Gap
✨Anonymous Chatting
✨Found Family
Charming romance set in London. I loved Ryan and Chloe’s first meeting, such a meet cute! I loved watching them finally give in to their feelings despite what they might lose. I also really enjoyed the ‘twist’, you don’t usually see a shocking twist in a romance but this one shocked me. The spice was great too
January 30, 2026
I liked this book! I definitely liked the first book better though. And I liked how everything tied together. Can’t wait to read more from her!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the story of Ryan and Chloe. It is the second book in the Bakery story but can be read as a stand alone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC provided by Ellie White in exchange for honest review.
This super cute love story left my well beaten heart feeling a little less cynical this January morning!
When Ryan walks into his best friend's bakery, still stinging from his divorce and not looking for anyone, he doesn't expect to set eyes on a girl who flirts her way into his dreams. He's all set to make a move, until he finds out she's his best friend's little sister. She's forbidden, there's an age gap... Ryan tells himself he can't have her, whilst secretly worshipping her from not-so-far. What he doesn't know is, she feels the same about him, but she doesn't want another protective big brother figure in her life. Both frustrated, they agree to a new form of dating app on Valentine's Day. Matches made, they spill their secrets. But the truth will out. Do Chloe and Ryan have a future after all?
This was a super easy read, if a little short. Chloe is a vivacious, outgoing and funny human, who, despite not having a baker's bone in her body, has become part of the family business by being a numbers girl. Her meet-cute with Ryan is heartwarming and gently funny, and her frustrations 8 months later at him treating her like an overprotective big brother lead to a hilarious scene where she overshares. She joins the app after peer pressure from Ava and Maggie, not expecting to find a friend who not only understands her heart not being in the right place to find love with him, but also empathises with her situation. Ryan is a gentleman, having fallen for her hard the moment he meets her, but trying to respect the fact she is his best friend's little sister, and 12 years younger than he is. He works himself extra hard across two jobs just to spend as much time with her as possible. The moment where both their restraints are tested is charged and you're rooting for them so hard, before they realise that it's actually each other they've been spilling their guts to. Both characters are incredibly likeable and relatable, in both their feelings for each other and their worries about Chloe's brother, Max.
There is a potential trigger that comes from this novel, off page sexual coercion, so please do bear that in mind should you choose to read. It is handled with tact and whilst it leads to the third act breakup, it is resolved satisfactorily and with an added bonus for Ryan's life. The third act breakup will pull hard at your heartstrings, knowing it comes from a place of being triggered and unable to stop the spiral, whilst there is some low-level miscommunication. It isn't dragged out, which is always a relief for me. I'm a total softie when it comes to romance novels and the third act breakup really gets to me - I struggle with prolonged separation periods!
There is a strong found family element to this story, particularly from Ryan's perspective. His upbringing is unusual and so family means something different to him than it does the others, moreso when you factor in the failure of his first marriage. Being swept up in the bakery project with Max, Ava, Roman, Maggie, Jake and of course Chloe, shows him a kind of familial love he isn't used to.
I will now need to go back and read Max and Ava's story, whilst also looking forward to Roman and his mysterious meet-cute with Rapunzel at the party in the epilogue of The Valentine's Date! I really enjoyed this gentle romance, with it's spikes of comedy, moments of poignancy and a couple you root for at every turn of the page.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
This super cute love story left my well beaten heart feeling a little less cynical this January morning!
When Ryan walks into his best friend's bakery, still stinging from his divorce and not looking for anyone, he doesn't expect to set eyes on a girl who flirts her way into his dreams. He's all set to make a move, until he finds out she's his best friend's little sister. She's forbidden, there's an age gap... Ryan tells himself he can't have her, whilst secretly worshipping her from not-so-far. What he doesn't know is, she feels the same about him, but she doesn't want another protective big brother figure in her life. Both frustrated, they agree to a new form of dating app on Valentine's Day. Matches made, they spill their secrets. But the truth will out. Do Chloe and Ryan have a future after all?
This was a super easy read, if a little short. Chloe is a vivacious, outgoing and funny human, who, despite not having a baker's bone in her body, has become part of the family business by being a numbers girl. Her meet-cute with Ryan is heartwarming and gently funny, and her frustrations 8 months later at him treating her like an overprotective big brother lead to a hilarious scene where she overshares. She joins the app after peer pressure from Ava and Maggie, not expecting to find a friend who not only understands her heart not being in the right place to find love with him, but also empathises with her situation. Ryan is a gentleman, having fallen for her hard the moment he meets her, but trying to respect the fact she is his best friend's little sister, and 12 years younger than he is. He works himself extra hard across two jobs just to spend as much time with her as possible. The moment where both their restraints are tested is charged and you're rooting for them so hard, before they realise that it's actually each other they've been spilling their guts to. Both characters are incredibly likeable and relatable, in both their feelings for each other and their worries about Chloe's brother, Max.
There is a potential trigger that comes from this novel, off page sexual coercion, so please do bear that in mind should you choose to read. It is handled with tact and whilst it leads to the third act breakup, it is resolved satisfactorily and with an added bonus for Ryan's life. The third act breakup will pull hard at your heartstrings, knowing it comes from a place of being triggered and unable to stop the spiral, whilst there is some low-level miscommunication. It isn't dragged out, which is always a relief for me. I'm a total softie when it comes to romance novels and the third act breakup really gets to me - I struggle with prolonged separation periods!
There is a strong found family element to this story, particularly from Ryan's perspective. His upbringing is unusual and so family means something different to him than it does the others, moreso when you factor in the failure of his first marriage. Being swept up in the bakery project with Max, Ava, Roman, Maggie, Jake and of course Chloe, shows him a kind of familial love he isn't used to.
I will now need to go back and read Max and Ava's story, whilst also looking forward to Roman and his mysterious meet-cute with Rapunzel at the party in the epilogue of The Valentine's Date! I really enjoyed this gentle romance, with it's spikes of comedy, moments of poignancy and a couple you root for at every turn of the page.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to review this book!
February 15, 2026
4,5⭐️
I really enjoyed Chloe and Ryan's story. What starts as a lighthearted romcom takes a dramatic twist as the story progresses. The plot is very well written and brims with emotion, past trauma, humor and spicy love scenes. The tropes are
- Brother‘s best friend
- Off-limits
- Age gap
- Workplace romance
- Close proximity
- Found family
- Virtual Valentine’s Day Date
- Third act breakup
I really liked the protagonists and the secondary characters. Chloe is vivacious, sassy and forward, and Ryan is definitely a swoonworthy golden retriever hero. The tension and the sizzling chemistry between them were palpable from the start, and their interactions felt very natural. The two are perfect for each other. I haven't read Ava and Max's story yet, but I definitely want to catch up on it.
TW: mental abuse, past off-page dubcon sex (coercion)
Nerdy Ryan Lewis is freshly divorced when he meets Chloe Jennings. But as the little sister of his best friend Max and over a decade younger than him, she is off-limits to him. Chloe is also immediately attracted to Ryan, but she believes that he only sees her as Max's sister. The two work side by side to launch the opening of Max and Ava's Bakehouse, while Max also works full-time for his uncle, who raised him. When the two singles find themselves without dates on Valentine's Day, they independently sign up for a virtual Valentine's Day date and are promptly matched. They chat anonymously about their feelings for each other, their desires and darkest secrets, but when they accidentally discover that the other is their anonymous chat partner, they finally get together. However, Chloe's past threatens to destroy their relationship and Ryan must choose between his love for Chloe and the man to whom he feels committed...
If you like sweet and spicy romcoms with appealing protagonists, unexpected twists, a little drama and heart, you are sure to enjoy this book.
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
I really enjoyed Chloe and Ryan's story. What starts as a lighthearted romcom takes a dramatic twist as the story progresses. The plot is very well written and brims with emotion, past trauma, humor and spicy love scenes. The tropes are
- Brother‘s best friend
- Off-limits
- Age gap
- Workplace romance
- Close proximity
- Found family
- Virtual Valentine’s Day Date
- Third act breakup
I really liked the protagonists and the secondary characters. Chloe is vivacious, sassy and forward, and Ryan is definitely a swoonworthy golden retriever hero. The tension and the sizzling chemistry between them were palpable from the start, and their interactions felt very natural. The two are perfect for each other. I haven't read Ava and Max's story yet, but I definitely want to catch up on it.
TW: mental abuse, past off-page dubcon sex (coercion)
Nerdy Ryan Lewis is freshly divorced when he meets Chloe Jennings. But as the little sister of his best friend Max and over a decade younger than him, she is off-limits to him. Chloe is also immediately attracted to Ryan, but she believes that he only sees her as Max's sister. The two work side by side to launch the opening of Max and Ava's Bakehouse, while Max also works full-time for his uncle, who raised him. When the two singles find themselves without dates on Valentine's Day, they independently sign up for a virtual Valentine's Day date and are promptly matched. They chat anonymously about their feelings for each other, their desires and darkest secrets, but when they accidentally discover that the other is their anonymous chat partner, they finally get together. However, Chloe's past threatens to destroy their relationship and Ryan must choose between his love for Chloe and the man to whom he feels committed...
If you like sweet and spicy romcoms with appealing protagonists, unexpected twists, a little drama and heart, you are sure to enjoy this book.
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
January 27, 2026
This was a cuteee Valentine’s Day book! It was a fun, flirty quick read that had all the feels. It’s a fast paced book, with some spice, and if you have a glasses thing, the MMC wears them!
This book follows Chloe, a charismatic, young, fun woman who moves back home to help her brother open a new bakery after some issues with her internship. She, of course, has a big crush on her brother’s best friend, Ryan. This Kent Clark look a like is a numbers nerd, who is also helping behind the scenes of this new bakery. Ryan is older, freshly divorced, and has one rule — Chloe is off limits. But these two have some off the charts chemistry that keeps pulling them in. And even though they think they’re keeping their feelings at bay, everyone around them can see it.
With some forced proximity, and Valentine’s Day online app fate, Ryan and Chloe have to figure out if their pull is worth the risk? Or if it’s better to just be friends.
There is a trigger that could be upsetting to some readers, and it is part reason why Chloe moves back, and even plays a part in their third act breakup. But Ellie White writes it in a tasteful way where readers can see Chloe chooses herself and freedom, and where Ryan stands up for her. Just makes me love these two number nerds even more.
This is part of a series, but I was able to follow along without having read the first book.
This was an e-ARC read for me. And these are my honest thoughts and review.
This book follows Chloe, a charismatic, young, fun woman who moves back home to help her brother open a new bakery after some issues with her internship. She, of course, has a big crush on her brother’s best friend, Ryan. This Kent Clark look a like is a numbers nerd, who is also helping behind the scenes of this new bakery. Ryan is older, freshly divorced, and has one rule — Chloe is off limits. But these two have some off the charts chemistry that keeps pulling them in. And even though they think they’re keeping their feelings at bay, everyone around them can see it.
With some forced proximity, and Valentine’s Day online app fate, Ryan and Chloe have to figure out if their pull is worth the risk? Or if it’s better to just be friends.
There is a trigger that could be upsetting to some readers, and it is part reason why Chloe moves back, and even plays a part in their third act breakup. But Ellie White writes it in a tasteful way where readers can see Chloe chooses herself and freedom, and where Ryan stands up for her. Just makes me love these two number nerds even more.
This is part of a series, but I was able to follow along without having read the first book.
This was an e-ARC read for me. And these are my honest thoughts and review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2026
This book is exactly the kind of romance I want in February. It’s sweet, swoony, a little chaotic, and full of that fizzy, heart‑fluttering tension that makes you grin at your Kindle like a fool.
Chloe and Ryan have years of unspoken chemistry simmering between them. He’s her brother’s best friend. Ryan is older, annoyingly responsible, and absolutely off‑limits. She’s the girl he’s spent years pretending he doesn’t notice. And then an anonymous dating app throws them together without either of them realizing who’s on the other side of the screen.
Their messages are flirty, honest, and unexpectedly vulnerable. They fall for each other’s words long before they connect the dots in real life, and watching those two worlds collide is pure Valentine’s Day magic. The moment they realize who they’ve been talking to? I squealed. Out loud.
This story is light, fun, and full of charm. It’s the perfect mix of forbidden tension, age‑gap sweetness, and holiday sparkle. Ryan is the kind of MMC who tries so hard to do the right thing that you know he’s going to crumble the second Chloe looks at him the right way. And Chloe? She’s determined, warm, and just reckless enough to make this romance feel electric.
Loved the twist at the end, which you absolutely don’t see coming. Chloe and Ryan’s relationship is the perfect balance of sweet & spicy! A huge thank you to Ellie White for the early copy!
Chloe and Ryan have years of unspoken chemistry simmering between them. He’s her brother’s best friend. Ryan is older, annoyingly responsible, and absolutely off‑limits. She’s the girl he’s spent years pretending he doesn’t notice. And then an anonymous dating app throws them together without either of them realizing who’s on the other side of the screen.
Their messages are flirty, honest, and unexpectedly vulnerable. They fall for each other’s words long before they connect the dots in real life, and watching those two worlds collide is pure Valentine’s Day magic. The moment they realize who they’ve been talking to? I squealed. Out loud.
This story is light, fun, and full of charm. It’s the perfect mix of forbidden tension, age‑gap sweetness, and holiday sparkle. Ryan is the kind of MMC who tries so hard to do the right thing that you know he’s going to crumble the second Chloe looks at him the right way. And Chloe? She’s determined, warm, and just reckless enough to make this romance feel electric.
Loved the twist at the end, which you absolutely don’t see coming. Chloe and Ryan’s relationship is the perfect balance of sweet & spicy! A huge thank you to Ellie White for the early copy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"I’m a complete disaster.”
“You’re my disaster”
Ellie White has done it again!!!!!!!!! I loved this!!! Curl up with your favorite blanket, stretch out and get ready to giggle and kick your feet while you eagerly wait for them to figure everything out!
The author always does such an incredible job with the tension and build up. Always balanced perfectly well with spice. (Which is top tier like always) I just love Ellie's writing style! Everything always flows so smoothly. Such a great mixture of aww, giggles, and ooooohhhh moments 🤣🩷
I've been looking forward to Ryan and Chloe's story and it was delicious! I loved the anonymous dating concept! It was so much fun and added a whole new layer to the plot. As cute, fun, and spicy as this read is there is also a heavy layer of emotional depth as well and I will say I didn't see a certain something coming! So when THAT happened my jaw dropped. I won't say what THAT was but it was a surprise to me! 🤯
I can't wait to see what happens with Roman!!! 😍😍 So looking forward to the next one.
🩷Brothers best friend
🩷 Anonymous first date
🩷Forced proximity
🩷Age gap
🩷Workplace romance
🩷Found family
Thank you for my ARC! I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
“You’re my disaster”
Ellie White has done it again!!!!!!!!! I loved this!!! Curl up with your favorite blanket, stretch out and get ready to giggle and kick your feet while you eagerly wait for them to figure everything out!
The author always does such an incredible job with the tension and build up. Always balanced perfectly well with spice. (Which is top tier like always) I just love Ellie's writing style! Everything always flows so smoothly. Such a great mixture of aww, giggles, and ooooohhhh moments 🤣🩷
I've been looking forward to Ryan and Chloe's story and it was delicious! I loved the anonymous dating concept! It was so much fun and added a whole new layer to the plot. As cute, fun, and spicy as this read is there is also a heavy layer of emotional depth as well and I will say I didn't see a certain something coming! So when THAT happened my jaw dropped. I won't say what THAT was but it was a surprise to me! 🤯
I can't wait to see what happens with Roman!!! 😍😍 So looking forward to the next one.
🩷Brothers best friend
🩷 Anonymous first date
🩷Forced proximity
🩷Age gap
🩷Workplace romance
🩷Found family
Thank you for my ARC! I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
February 6, 2026
ARC Provided by Ellie White in exchange for an honest review
The Valentine’s Date by Ellie White is a sweet, cozy romance centered around Ryan and Chloe, whose connection is complicated by an age gap and the classic “brother’s best friend” boundary. Their meeting through a charming Valentine’s-themed blind dating event creates a fun and engaging setup, and their growing connection is heartfelt and easy to root for.
The story also touches on Chloe’s past trauma, adding emotional depth to her character and the relationship’s progression. While the romance is cute and engaging, I personally would have enjoyed the story more if it had remained a closed-door romance, as some explicit details felt unnecessary to move the plot forward. I also found myself wishing the blind dating storyline had been explored further because it was such a unique and enjoyable element. Overall, it’s a warm and emotional romance with lovable characters and a satisfying ending.
I did not read book 1 in the series but do plan to read it now.
The Valentine’s Date by Ellie White is a sweet, cozy romance centered around Ryan and Chloe, whose connection is complicated by an age gap and the classic “brother’s best friend” boundary. Their meeting through a charming Valentine’s-themed blind dating event creates a fun and engaging setup, and their growing connection is heartfelt and easy to root for.
The story also touches on Chloe’s past trauma, adding emotional depth to her character and the relationship’s progression. While the romance is cute and engaging, I personally would have enjoyed the story more if it had remained a closed-door romance, as some explicit details felt unnecessary to move the plot forward. I also found myself wishing the blind dating storyline had been explored further because it was such a unique and enjoyable element. Overall, it’s a warm and emotional romance with lovable characters and a satisfying ending.
I did not read book 1 in the series but do plan to read it now.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reviewed by Rose on behalf of the Plot Thickens Book Club
Title: The Valentine's Date
Author: Ellie White
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an Age gap, Best friends little sister romance Ryan and Chloe both realise when they first meet that they have strong feelings for each other but both stay silent. Ryan feels he is too old for her and has just gone through a divorce. They start messaging each other on a dating app not realising who they are messaging as it was anonymous. They find out that they are in fact messaging each other and have told each other they love the person they are telling each other about. When they think everything is going well, a spoke in the wheel causes a split to the romance, but luckily the are only apart for a short while their love overcoming this set back. Also loved that it's set in London. Steamy and emotional this book is well worth a read and I fully intend to go and read the first book of the series.
Title: The Valentine's Date
Author: Ellie White
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an Age gap, Best friends little sister romance Ryan and Chloe both realise when they first meet that they have strong feelings for each other but both stay silent. Ryan feels he is too old for her and has just gone through a divorce. They start messaging each other on a dating app not realising who they are messaging as it was anonymous. They find out that they are in fact messaging each other and have told each other they love the person they are telling each other about. When they think everything is going well, a spoke in the wheel causes a split to the romance, but luckily the are only apart for a short while their love overcoming this set back. Also loved that it's set in London. Steamy and emotional this book is well worth a read and I fully intend to go and read the first book of the series.
February 9, 2026
Ryan and Chloe work together in the newly merged Borough Bakehouse, which brought together her family business with that of once rival now fiancé of her brother, Ava’s family business. Their story was in the prior book in the series, which I have also read. As they begin to work together, it is a challenge because of their instant attraction and the fact that her brother is Ryan’s best friend. Since they cannot be together, both Ryan and Chloe join an online dating service, where they begin writing to their new friends about each other.
This starts as a fun online meet-cute, but Ryan and Chloe develop a relationship with the online presence that helps them see their situation more clearly. The story is a spicy romance between co-workers and friends who cannot fight their attraction. As their relationship develops, they look into their past and find the distress that they actually have in common.
I received the ARC directly from the author as part of her ARC team.
This starts as a fun online meet-cute, but Ryan and Chloe develop a relationship with the online presence that helps them see their situation more clearly. The story is a spicy romance between co-workers and friends who cannot fight their attraction. As their relationship develops, they look into their past and find the distress that they actually have in common.
I received the ARC directly from the author as part of her ARC team.
Review of advance copy received from Author
’m giving this book ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and 🌶️🌶️🌶️½ peppers.
Brother’s best friend is one of my favorite tropes, and in this case Ryan is Max’s best friend—who also happens to be Chloe’s brother. Usually with this trope we get the overprotective brother who doesn’t want his sister falling for his playboy best friend. Well, in this book, it’s the complete opposite, and I loved that twist.
The beginning hooked me right away. Ryan and Chloe both join a dating site and match without realizing it’s each other. I honestly wish the author had kept that storyline going longer because it was such a fun setup.
While it was a quick and enjoyable read, the second half left me wondering what was next for these two beyond the really spicy scenes. The conflict and resolution did help bring the story together toward the end, though.
Overall, I recommend this book.
Brother’s best friend is one of my favorite tropes, and in this case Ryan is Max’s best friend—who also happens to be Chloe’s brother. Usually with this trope we get the overprotective brother who doesn’t want his sister falling for his playboy best friend. Well, in this book, it’s the complete opposite, and I loved that twist.
The beginning hooked me right away. Ryan and Chloe both join a dating site and match without realizing it’s each other. I honestly wish the author had kept that storyline going longer because it was such a fun setup.
While it was a quick and enjoyable read, the second half left me wondering what was next for these two beyond the really spicy scenes. The conflict and resolution did help bring the story together toward the end, though.
Overall, I recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The second book in the series about two rival baking familie’s in London centers around bestie Ryan and sister Chloe. Love at first sight, till Ryan finds out she is his best friend’s sister, and 12 years his junior. That can never work. Bro code and all.
Chloe has left her job unexpectedly (we will find out later why) and now works for her brother in the family bakery. When Ryan walks in it’s love at first sight. But he sees her just as the annoying little sister he needs to look out for, not as romance material.
At Valentine they both sign up for this virtual dating thing and surprise surprise, it’s a super-match. Not knowing who the other is, they start messaging and confiding in each other about their crushes. Yep, each other!
This book was an interesting concept. It had depth, emotion and spice. And a happy ending.
I hope the next book will be about Roman. Can’t wait!
Chloe has left her job unexpectedly (we will find out later why) and now works for her brother in the family bakery. When Ryan walks in it’s love at first sight. But he sees her just as the annoying little sister he needs to look out for, not as romance material.
At Valentine they both sign up for this virtual dating thing and surprise surprise, it’s a super-match. Not knowing who the other is, they start messaging and confiding in each other about their crushes. Yep, each other!
This book was an interesting concept. It had depth, emotion and spice. And a happy ending.
I hope the next book will be about Roman. Can’t wait!
February 1, 2026
Chloe and Ryan are EVERYTHING. After meeting them in It’s Not Love, Actually, I have been dying for this story and Ellie, as always, doesn’t disappoint.
He’s her brother’s best friend. He’s also her dream Clark Kent. She’s think it’s one sided until a Valentine’s match, a little anonymity, and one dangerously close working arrangement prove that some fantasies have been mutual all along.
Oh these two! The way they try to hide their feelings, the interactions which are charged with that whole ‘brother’s best friend forbidden romance’ energy, only fuelled their chemistry further.
And it goes without saying that when the anonymous Valentine’s connection collides with real life… Absolute perfection.
Sweet, heartfelt, and utterly addictive, The Valentine’s Date is definitely the book date you need next 🩷
Thank you Ellie for once again giving me the opportunity to ARC read for you.
He’s her brother’s best friend. He’s also her dream Clark Kent. She’s think it’s one sided until a Valentine’s match, a little anonymity, and one dangerously close working arrangement prove that some fantasies have been mutual all along.
Oh these two! The way they try to hide their feelings, the interactions which are charged with that whole ‘brother’s best friend forbidden romance’ energy, only fuelled their chemistry further.
And it goes without saying that when the anonymous Valentine’s connection collides with real life… Absolute perfection.
Sweet, heartfelt, and utterly addictive, The Valentine’s Date is definitely the book date you need next 🩷
Thank you Ellie for once again giving me the opportunity to ARC read for you.
February 2, 2026
This was such a cute, short Valentine’s Day read. I loved how alike Ryan and Chloe were and how naturally they fit together—their connection felt easy and genuine from the start. I would recommend reading the first book in the series beforehand; I didn’t, and while I was a little confused with some of the characters at first, I was still able to piece everything together without issue.
This story was the perfect mix of wholesome and spicy, making it ideal for this time of year. There’s so much love woven throughout, not just between the main characters but among the entire cast. One of my favorite tropes—brother’s best friend and best friend’s little sister—done so well, especially with all that built-up tension finally snapping.
I’m so thankful to Ellie for the opportunity to read this early. It was a sweet, short read and exactly what my heart needed right now. 💕🔥
This story was the perfect mix of wholesome and spicy, making it ideal for this time of year. There’s so much love woven throughout, not just between the main characters but among the entire cast. One of my favorite tropes—brother’s best friend and best friend’s little sister—done so well, especially with all that built-up tension finally snapping.
I’m so thankful to Ellie for the opportunity to read this early. It was a sweet, short read and exactly what my heart needed right now. 💕🔥
February 9, 2026
This was a cute little read. We have our FMC Chloe who is our MMC Ryan's best friends sister. Chloe is 12 years younger than Ryan and when they first meet Ryan is immediately enamored and he is coming from making his divorce official. They both are flirting and being cutesy until Ryan learns she is his best friends little sister then he immediately backs off! They both end up using this matchmaking app on Valentines day where they end up matched together ofc as "super matches" but since it is all anonymous neither one knows it is the other. They both end up being vulnerable and sharing intimate details and traumas until one day they figure out they are talking with each other. This book had some wonderful spice and the character development was great! I found quite a few things predictable but then there were some nice little surprises thrown in too.
February 10, 2026
I just finished reading this book and while I wanted to love it--it fell short in my opinion. Its a cute concept...but there was alot of plot issues. For example, the FMC has alot of background grooming trauma--which is fine. But her character is 22, and the MMC is 34....which in my book--definitely consitutes grooming as well, even if well intentioned. The FMC isn't old enough to have the mental capacity to fully enter into a relationship of a serious long term situation with a man well older. Her frontal cortex hasnt fully developed yet. That was my biggest issue with the plot. There were other minor things--I think having a full hours worth of reading being straight smut no breaks could have been a bit more spread out, but again, not the end of the world. Overall a cute story, but I think the character ages need a bit of an adjustment.
February 14, 2026
Oh I did enjoy this story….it was perfect!
Both Ryan and Chloe were wonderful and such down-to-earth lovable characters, i was rooting for them all the way!
I was very quickly pulled into this books pages right from the very beginning and it did not let me go again until i had turned every last page and devoured it all up!
The Valentine’s Date is full of some of my most favourite tropes, including: my brother’s best friend, age-gap, workplace romance, forced proximity and also lots of delicious spiciness too!
I absolutely and thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful book. The chemistry between Ryan and Chloe was just pure perfection. It was so well written and just kept me engrossed all the way through.
This was a perfect addition to the London Love Story series…..
Both Ryan and Chloe were wonderful and such down-to-earth lovable characters, i was rooting for them all the way!
I was very quickly pulled into this books pages right from the very beginning and it did not let me go again until i had turned every last page and devoured it all up!
The Valentine’s Date is full of some of my most favourite tropes, including: my brother’s best friend, age-gap, workplace romance, forced proximity and also lots of delicious spiciness too!
I absolutely and thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful book. The chemistry between Ryan and Chloe was just pure perfection. It was so well written and just kept me engrossed all the way through.
This was a perfect addition to the London Love Story series…..
Review of advance copy received from Author
he Valentine’s Date was such a cute, adorable Valentine’s Day read — I was hooked from the very first page.
Chloe and Ryan were the perfect couple. From their first meeting, I couldn’t stop smiling. Their banter was fun and flirty, their chemistry was completely off the charts, and every interaction between them felt effortless. And yes… the bedroom moments were even hotter 😈🔥.
This was an easy, feel-good, romantic read that I had so much fun with. Sweet, spicy, and perfect for Valentine’s vibes — I absolutely loved it from Ellie White.
Tropes:
⭐️ Brother’s Best Friend
⭐️ Anonymous First Date
⭐️ Forced Proximity
⭐️ Age Gap
⭐️ Workplace Romance
⭐️ Found Family
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Chloe and Ryan were the perfect couple. From their first meeting, I couldn’t stop smiling. Their banter was fun and flirty, their chemistry was completely off the charts, and every interaction between them felt effortless. And yes… the bedroom moments were even hotter 😈🔥.
This was an easy, feel-good, romantic read that I had so much fun with. Sweet, spicy, and perfect for Valentine’s vibes — I absolutely loved it from Ellie White.
Tropes:
⭐️ Brother’s Best Friend
⭐️ Anonymous First Date
⭐️ Forced Proximity
⭐️ Age Gap
⭐️ Workplace Romance
⭐️ Found Family
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 17, 2026
Review
A Valentine's Date @elliewhite_writes
Available 1st February
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This quick read is amazing. Ellie's books just keep getting better. This book is sweet with a good helping of spice on the side. Ryan and Chloe are forbidden, brothers best friend. They have amazing chemistry and the dynamic between them both is wow. I love how we see others characters we hsve seen. So would recommend reading It's Not Love Actually, prior to this,it is a world everyone should be apart of.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this in advance and being apart of your team. Can't wait for what's next.
A Valentine's Date @elliewhite_writes
Available 1st February
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This quick read is amazing. Ellie's books just keep getting better. This book is sweet with a good helping of spice on the side. Ryan and Chloe are forbidden, brothers best friend. They have amazing chemistry and the dynamic between them both is wow. I love how we see others characters we hsve seen. So would recommend reading It's Not Love Actually, prior to this,it is a world everyone should be apart of.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this in advance and being apart of your team. Can't wait for what's next.
January 13, 2026
This was such an amazing book, and incredibly spicy! 🥵 I absolutely loved every moment of it. As a reader, I really enjoy being one step ahead of the main characters, knowing things they don’t yet know, and then eagerly waiting for the moment when everything finally clicks for them. Those revelations had me kicking my legs in excitement. The tension, the buildup, and the payoff were all fantastic.
This was my first book by Ellie White, but it will most definitely not be my last. I truly fell in love with her writing style. It was engaging, well-paced, and emotionally gripping, making it impossible to put the book down. I can’t wait to read more of her work!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This was my first book by Ellie White, but it will most definitely not be my last. I truly fell in love with her writing style. It was engaging, well-paced, and emotionally gripping, making it impossible to put the book down. I can’t wait to read more of her work!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
February 4, 2026
I absolutely love Chloe's and Ryan's chemistry in this cozy, age gap romance short read. Despite with the heavy pasts they both want to overcome, they have gorgeous personalities that you will fall for. Chloe being bright and cheerful, Ryan (aka "Clark Kent") being the hot, nerdy book boyfriend material. They have the cutest banter and me smiling the whole time! And the side characters add depth to the story, too! From wonderfully supportive friends to truly despicable antagonists. Love how the book was written ♥️.
Im thankful to be given the opportunity to read this in advance.
Im thankful to be given the opportunity to read this in advance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Valentines Date
By @elliewhite_writes
Arc Review
This is my second arc read by Ellie and I was not disappointed…
Steam from the start,chemistry,it had the whole lot and more!
I demolished this in basically one sitting…couldn’t put it down..
This follows on from Its Love Actually which I absolutely loved too..
So easy to read,the flow of writing is flawless that you can’t help but to carry on reading..
This definitely by far my favourite..
Can’t wait to see what cheeky Roman gets up to next..
Thank u for letting arc read this fab book @elliewhite_writes..
I look forward to the next one..
#arcread #januaryreading #januaryreads #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #booksmakemehappy #booksareforlife
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another sweet and sexy story from Ellie that I couldnt get enough of! Every book she writes has me smiling, sniggering and sweating and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Ryan & Chloe are possibly my new favourite couple, the sexual tension omg i couldnt cope!
Loved seeing previous characters from Ellies books pop up in this story too, this made me smile!
Thank you to the author for sending me an early e copy in exchange for an honest review.
Ryan & Chloe are possibly my new favourite couple, the sexual tension omg i couldnt cope!
Loved seeing previous characters from Ellies books pop up in this story too, this made me smile!
Thank you to the author for sending me an early e copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Ryan and Chloe have TRULY pulled me out of my reading slump. I devoured this book in 24 hours, and now I need to read the rest of Ellie's series of books.
The yearning, the mystery, the reveal and then the SPICE were all absolutely top tier. I kicked and squealed my way through this book, and when the sucker punch came in the third act I sobbed and sobbed and sobbed because I care about them so much.
Cannot wait to see what mischief Roman will get up to in his book 😂
Ryan and Chloe have TRULY pulled me out of my reading slump. I devoured this book in 24 hours, and now I need to read the rest of Ellie's series of books.
The yearning, the mystery, the reveal and then the SPICE were all absolutely top tier. I kicked and squealed my way through this book, and when the sucker punch came in the third act I sobbed and sobbed and sobbed because I care about them so much.
Cannot wait to see what mischief Roman will get up to in his book 😂
February 10, 2026
Geez who would have thought you needed a marketing degree to make yourself sound remotely dateable. looking for someone, anyone to distract me from him!
As I sit clutching my glass of wine trying to put my online dating profile together, while staring at the curser blinking mockingly at me.
🩷 the juicy bits you wanna know 💙
💗 Brother’s Best Friend
💙 Age Gap
💗 Workplace Romance
💙 Forced Proximity
💗 They meet on an anonymous dating website
💙 Spicy scenes 🌶️ 🥵
As I sit clutching my glass of wine trying to put my online dating profile together, while staring at the curser blinking mockingly at me.
🩷 the juicy bits you wanna know 💙
💗 Brother’s Best Friend
💙 Age Gap
💗 Workplace Romance
💙 Forced Proximity
💗 They meet on an anonymous dating website
💙 Spicy scenes 🌶️ 🥵
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you love green flag men that stick up for their woman, explore k*nks and freely give multiple org*sms this book it for! The hold this book had on me within the first 5 pages is ridiculous and the spice? Don’t even get me started! When it hit it f*cking hit!!
You need this book in your life make sure to grab a copy on 1st February 2026
You need this book in your life make sure to grab a copy on 1st February 2026
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