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One More Round
Olivia Hart always dreamed of following in her father’s footsteps to become the CEO of Hartstring Records—the massive record label that’s been in her family for generations. Before he died, she vowed she’d do whatever it took to make that dream a reality, regardless of the personal cost.
Now, at thirty-seven, she’s kept her promise. Only, instead of bringing her joy, she finds herself divorced and resenting her position at the top, forced to prioritize her career over her daughter, Charlie. The days are long and the nights are lonely. She finds herself longing for a fraction of the happiness her ex has found after their divorce. When Olivia gets an unexpected call from her brother that their uncle’s health is failing, she seizes the opportunity to step away from the career that has become more of a chore and drops everything to head back to Tennessee and the charming little town she left behind.
It doesn’t take long for Olivia to realize that not everything is the same as it was before she left. Especially not her brother’s best friend.
Duke Bennett was carefree and vibrant the last time she saw him, but now his dark eyes are haunted by something that wasn’t there before. He’s brash, stubborn, and adamantly against her being back in his life for any reason. Unfortunately, his daughter and Olivia’s have become inseparable, and there’s no avoiding each other. What starts as after-school playdates and Saturday morning soccer games reluctantly becomes more. Before she knows it, her brother’s broody best friend becomes the one thing that makes her feel free for the first time in years, giving her hope for something she thought she’d never have.
As Olivia’s time in Pinecrest comes to a close, she is faced with a decision that could wreck her heart either way. Does she walk away from Pinecrest and return to the dream she thought she always wanted, or will she realize that sometimes it’s the legacy you choose that matters the most?
Now, at thirty-seven, she’s kept her promise. Only, instead of bringing her joy, she finds herself divorced and resenting her position at the top, forced to prioritize her career over her daughter, Charlie. The days are long and the nights are lonely. She finds herself longing for a fraction of the happiness her ex has found after their divorce. When Olivia gets an unexpected call from her brother that their uncle’s health is failing, she seizes the opportunity to step away from the career that has become more of a chore and drops everything to head back to Tennessee and the charming little town she left behind.
It doesn’t take long for Olivia to realize that not everything is the same as it was before she left. Especially not her brother’s best friend.
Duke Bennett was carefree and vibrant the last time she saw him, but now his dark eyes are haunted by something that wasn’t there before. He’s brash, stubborn, and adamantly against her being back in his life for any reason. Unfortunately, his daughter and Olivia’s have become inseparable, and there’s no avoiding each other. What starts as after-school playdates and Saturday morning soccer games reluctantly becomes more. Before she knows it, her brother’s broody best friend becomes the one thing that makes her feel free for the first time in years, giving her hope for something she thought she’d never have.
As Olivia’s time in Pinecrest comes to a close, she is faced with a decision that could wreck her heart either way. Does she walk away from Pinecrest and return to the dream she thought she always wanted, or will she realize that sometimes it’s the legacy you choose that matters the most?
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2026
350 people are currently reading
1971 people want to read
About the author
Amber Palmer
10 books634 followersAmber Palmer is an American romance author specializing in paranormal and contemporary love stories. Born in Arizona and raised in Texas, she’s the proud parent of three mischievous cats and one playful pup. When she’s not devouring spicy romance novels, you can find her curating bookish Spotify playlists or jotting down ideas for her next project. A fierce advocate for mental health, Amber crafts characters who face and heal from deep traumas. She’s unapologetically passionate about all things spicy—both in books and life—and loves gaming with her husband in her downtime.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 383 reviews
May 5, 2026
Everything about this book was perfect. A grumpy older MMC, check. A boss babe older FMC, check. Two divorced single parents, check. Everything I wanted and more, check.
I really enjoyed every moment of Duke and Olivia's story. I also adored their two girls and loved that they were besties. Duke and Olivia were in such different, but also in similar places in their lives. Nothing about them says they should work, but they absolutely do and they balance each other so well. This story has some deeper, more emotional moments and really shows the growth and continued learning form life that these two experience throughout the story.
I was super excited when this spin off series was announced. Duke and Olivia were the perfect start of the series and I can't wait for book two!
I really enjoyed every moment of Duke and Olivia's story. I also adored their two girls and loved that they were besties. Duke and Olivia were in such different, but also in similar places in their lives. Nothing about them says they should work, but they absolutely do and they balance each other so well. This story has some deeper, more emotional moments and really shows the growth and continued learning form life that these two experience throughout the story.
I was super excited when this spin off series was announced. Duke and Olivia were the perfect start of the series and I can't wait for book two!
April 30, 2026
Driven by a sense of familial duty, Olivia Hart, CEO of Hartstrings, one of the country’s biggest record labels, has found her way home to the small town of Pinecrest, Tennessee.
After she runs into - literally - her brother’s grumpy best friend, Duke Bennett, in the grocery sore, she can’t get him and his slutty mustache off her mind.
Friends, the angst is real with this one. The “will they, won’t they?” is brutal. The sexual tension? JFC. But, I loved them and their story all the same. And somehow I found myself reading another single parent trope and it didn’t give me the ick this time either. The story wouldn’t have hit quite the same without Harper and Charlie. Still not changing my mind on the trope as a whole, however.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Format: 📱
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): New Adult
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
Emotions: 🙄🤭😩🥰😍
Darkness: 🤍
Burn: 🔥🔥
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
✨ Tropes: Billionaire, Enemies-to-Lovers, Forbidden (Brother’s BFF), Grumpy/Sunshine, Meet Cute, One Bed, Opposites Attract, Secret Situationship, Single Parent
💫 Microtropes: Caretaker/Protective MMC, Caveman/Bridal Carry, Cinnamon Roll, Pet Name (Honey)
🔆 Character: Blue Collar, White Collar
💋 Kinks: Biting/Marking, Cum Jammer, Exhibitionism, Finger Licking Good
🤰🏻 Pregnancy: n/a
🚩 Red Flags: Alphahole
⛔️ Safety Squad: Addiction (Not by MC’s), Death of Loved One, Suicidal Ideations (Past, by MMC), and other potentially triggering elements. Triggers may appear both on- and off-page and in the past and/or present. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is
📍 Setting: Pinecrest, Tennessee 🇺🇸
📣 Type: One More Round is part of the series of interconnected standalones. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books may enhance the experience.
⚠️ Warning: The angst in this slow-burn will edge you to the point of combustion!
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
After she runs into - literally - her brother’s grumpy best friend, Duke Bennett, in the grocery sore, she can’t get him and his slutty mustache off her mind.
Friends, the angst is real with this one. The “will they, won’t they?” is brutal. The sexual tension? JFC. But, I loved them and their story all the same. And somehow I found myself reading another single parent trope and it didn’t give me the ick this time either. The story wouldn’t have hit quite the same without Harper and Charlie. Still not changing my mind on the trope as a whole, however.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Format: 📱
🗄️ Genre: Contemporary Romance
🗂️ Subgenre(s): New Adult
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫🏻 {Dual | Present}
Emotions: 🙄🤭😩🥰😍
Darkness: 🤍
Burn: 🔥🔥
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
✨ Tropes: Billionaire, Enemies-to-Lovers, Forbidden (Brother’s BFF), Grumpy/Sunshine, Meet Cute, One Bed, Opposites Attract, Secret Situationship, Single Parent
💫 Microtropes: Caretaker/Protective MMC, Caveman/Bridal Carry, Cinnamon Roll, Pet Name (Honey)
🔆 Character: Blue Collar, White Collar
💋 Kinks: Biting/Marking, Cum Jammer, Exhibitionism, Finger Licking Good
🤰🏻 Pregnancy: n/a
🚩 Red Flags: Alphahole
⛔️ Safety Squad: Addiction (Not by MC’s), Death of Loved One, Suicidal Ideations (Past, by MMC), and other potentially triggering elements. Triggers may appear both on- and off-page and in the past and/or present. If you have any hesitation, check the warnings before diving in. Otherwise, blind is
📍 Setting: Pinecrest, Tennessee 🇺🇸
📣 Type: One More Round is part of the series of interconnected standalones. While no other books need to be read in order to follow the story, reading prior books may enhance the experience.
⚠️ Warning: The angst in this slow-burn will edge you to the point of combustion!
🛑 Be Advised: My Goodreads shelves are … explicit in both senses. As such, they could be considered spoiler-y.
April 28, 2026
This was sort of a redemption arc book for me.
I did not vibe with Olivia (Liz) in After the Rain.
Like at all.
But she was a whole new person in this book.
And I liked her in this book.
She’s the CEO of a music label.
Single mom. Not always present, busy busy.
Returns home.
Dealings with grief.
Duke
Bar owner & struggles
Single dad
The daughter are BFFs
And ladies, if you want a hot slutty mustache guy but in a dad bod (not beer gut but not washboard abs) here he is!!
Small town.
I loved all the connections.
Lincoln’s bar.
Grady’s ex wife.
The family ties.
This was nice and good segue into where Amber Palmer is taking us next.
Arc review ✨
I did not vibe with Olivia (Liz) in After the Rain.
Like at all.
But she was a whole new person in this book.
And I liked her in this book.
She’s the CEO of a music label.
Single mom. Not always present, busy busy.
Returns home.
Dealings with grief.
Duke
Bar owner & struggles
Single dad
The daughter are BFFs
And ladies, if you want a hot slutty mustache guy but in a dad bod (not beer gut but not washboard abs) here he is!!
Small town.
I loved all the connections.
Lincoln’s bar.
Grady’s ex wife.
The family ties.
This was nice and good segue into where Amber Palmer is taking us next.
Arc review ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
How about another round for that SEXY MUSTACHE?! 😌💓
I ate this up!!
Amber, you did it again 🫵🏽 you gave us an MMC that’ll have us swooning.
One More Round is really a second chance at life, to do whatever your heart desires.
“Regrets are for fools”
& I felt that in my soul.
Duke Bennet- although he came off a little gruff in the beginning, once you pulled those thick layers, he loves so hard, it’s infectious. A MAN who speaks with his actions, I mean he’s perfect.
His love language? Physical touch (aka carrying Olivia around like nothing) & acts of service. 🤧❤️🔥
Olivia Hart - she’s the ceo of a male-dominated industry, stomps on men’s necks, is a single mom, and all the while trying to juggle her work-life balance. She’s always putting a smile on her face even if things are falling apart. Olivia deserves to be understood 🥰
When these two cross paths again? It’s not just the best friend’s younger sister, it’s something more.
The chemistry is undeniable. The stubbornness between the two created a hot & steamy atmosphere.
All the moments of slowly getting to open up, helping each other through grief, and allowing themselves to be cared for - I was holding onto my heartstrings.
Finding happiness while fighting personal demons, this story just felt more sentimental & wholesome.
I found a new family to adore, and the girls, Harper & Charlie are the cutest ever.
Also, my favorite couple from Black Springs Ranch made a few appearances and I couldn’t stop smiling.
4.5 ✨
I cannot wait to see where this series goes!
Thank you Amber Palmer for the physical and digital arc, I am immensely grateful 🌸💞
What you’ll find:
💗Small Town Romance
🎲Divorced MCs
💗Older MCs (over 30)
🎲Found Family
💗Grief/Comfort
🎲Brother’s best friend
💗Grumpy/Sunshine
🎲Soft only for her
💗Steamy/Spice
I ate this up!!
Amber, you did it again 🫵🏽 you gave us an MMC that’ll have us swooning.
One More Round is really a second chance at life, to do whatever your heart desires.
“Regrets are for fools”
& I felt that in my soul.
Duke Bennet- although he came off a little gruff in the beginning, once you pulled those thick layers, he loves so hard, it’s infectious. A MAN who speaks with his actions, I mean he’s perfect.
His love language? Physical touch (aka carrying Olivia around like nothing) & acts of service. 🤧❤️🔥
Olivia Hart - she’s the ceo of a male-dominated industry, stomps on men’s necks, is a single mom, and all the while trying to juggle her work-life balance. She’s always putting a smile on her face even if things are falling apart. Olivia deserves to be understood 🥰
When these two cross paths again? It’s not just the best friend’s younger sister, it’s something more.
The chemistry is undeniable. The stubbornness between the two created a hot & steamy atmosphere.
All the moments of slowly getting to open up, helping each other through grief, and allowing themselves to be cared for - I was holding onto my heartstrings.
Finding happiness while fighting personal demons, this story just felt more sentimental & wholesome.
I found a new family to adore, and the girls, Harper & Charlie are the cutest ever.
Also, my favorite couple from Black Springs Ranch made a few appearances and I couldn’t stop smiling.
4.5 ✨
I cannot wait to see where this series goes!
Thank you Amber Palmer for the physical and digital arc, I am immensely grateful 🌸💞
What you’ll find:
💗Small Town Romance
🎲Divorced MCs
💗Older MCs (over 30)
🎲Found Family
💗Grief/Comfort
🎲Brother’s best friend
💗Grumpy/Sunshine
🎲Soft only for her
💗Steamy/Spice
April 15, 2026
For the ones who’ve spent their whole lives breaking themselves to be perfect for everyone else… this one’s going to wreck you. 💔
Olivia is a people pleaser who gives until she’s empty.
Duke is the man who never asks for anything until her.
What to expect:
Brother’s BFF
Single parents
Banter
Grief
Mental health
I went in skeptical about a single mom/single dad romance, but I was so wrong. This book handles the chaos, exhaustion, and raw honesty of parenting with humor and heart, while layering in the heavy grief of losing a parent. It felt real in a way that snuck up on me.
The way Duke sees straight through Olivia’s people-pleasing armor and quietly makes her feel safe? I was done for. I was not expecting to legit be tearing up but then here comes Duke in ch 32 😭
Their slow-burn tension is perfection, and when they finally give in… it’s explosive. That man doesn’t say much, but when he does? 🫠
This is beautiful, emotional, and spicy in all the right moments.
PS: The Spotify playlist is a 10/10 so pleaser 🙏 listen to it with the book, trust me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to the author for this ARC copy.
Olivia is a people pleaser who gives until she’s empty.
Duke is the man who never asks for anything until her.
What to expect:
Brother’s BFF
Single parents
Banter
Grief
Mental health
I went in skeptical about a single mom/single dad romance, but I was so wrong. This book handles the chaos, exhaustion, and raw honesty of parenting with humor and heart, while layering in the heavy grief of losing a parent. It felt real in a way that snuck up on me.
The way Duke sees straight through Olivia’s people-pleasing armor and quietly makes her feel safe? I was done for. I was not expecting to legit be tearing up but then here comes Duke in ch 32 😭
Their slow-burn tension is perfection, and when they finally give in… it’s explosive. That man doesn’t say much, but when he does? 🫠
This is beautiful, emotional, and spicy in all the right moments.
PS: The Spotify playlist is a 10/10 so pleaser 🙏 listen to it with the book, trust me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to the author for this ARC copy.
April 11, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
(Rounded up)
Oh my goodness this book had my whole heart.
I’m such a sucker for small town romances and this book delivered everything I love: cozy small town vibes, grumpy sunshine perfection, and two absolutely adorable kids that just made the story feel even more full.
There’s something so special about a story that reminds you sometimes going home is exactly what your heart needs and this one captured that feeling so beautifully.
Olivia and Duke completely stole the show for me. Duke is THAT man. The way he showed up for Olivia through some of her hardest moments I was melting. Supportive, patient, protective and yes the kind of man who will chase you, comfort you, and carry you home when you need it most. Where do I find one?!
And Olivia I loved her journey so much. She had so much weight on her shoulders and watching her start to break free from the expectations placed on her and choose herself was so powerful and emotional.
This town these characters this story I’m obsessed. I cannot wait to come back to this world.
(Rounded up)
Oh my goodness this book had my whole heart.
I’m such a sucker for small town romances and this book delivered everything I love: cozy small town vibes, grumpy sunshine perfection, and two absolutely adorable kids that just made the story feel even more full.
There’s something so special about a story that reminds you sometimes going home is exactly what your heart needs and this one captured that feeling so beautifully.
Olivia and Duke completely stole the show for me. Duke is THAT man. The way he showed up for Olivia through some of her hardest moments I was melting. Supportive, patient, protective and yes the kind of man who will chase you, comfort you, and carry you home when you need it most. Where do I find one?!
And Olivia I loved her journey so much. She had so much weight on her shoulders and watching her start to break free from the expectations placed on her and choose herself was so powerful and emotional.
This town these characters this story I’m obsessed. I cannot wait to come back to this world.
April 17, 2026
did i just fall for another mustache having grumpy single dad living in a small town???
YUP.
YUP.
April 21, 2026
One More Round was PERFECT. I truly didn’t know how I would feel stepping outside of the Hayes family, but I am so grateful Amber did!!
I loved Olivia. I loved Duke even more. Older main characters that are divorced and single parents? It was done so perfectly. Duke being her brother’s best friend made it even better 🤭
This story was so heartbreaking and comforting all in one. I love the way all of the characters supported one another without a second thought. I also enjoyed Cleo and Grady again!! We love a happy and healthy coparenting arrangement.
Duke and Olivia were exactly what the other person needed. I truly loved watching them fall in love. Their story was so precious!
I loved Olivia. I loved Duke even more. Older main characters that are divorced and single parents? It was done so perfectly. Duke being her brother’s best friend made it even better 🤭
This story was so heartbreaking and comforting all in one. I love the way all of the characters supported one another without a second thought. I also enjoyed Cleo and Grady again!! We love a happy and healthy coparenting arrangement.
Duke and Olivia were exactly what the other person needed. I truly loved watching them fall in love. Their story was so precious!
May 6, 2026
3.25⭐️ | 2🌶
It was a good read. I liked that it had some realistic aspects and it honed in on them. Harper and Charlie were so cute. Thank you to literary love on the line for the arc
It was a good read. I liked that it had some realistic aspects and it honed in on them. Harper and Charlie were so cute. Thank you to literary love on the line for the arc
April 28, 2026
this was SUCH a good book and a phenomenal way to kick off a new series!!
i truly couldnt love duke and olivia more, i loved the history they had behind them, how they literally bumped back into one another and the way they were forced to be back in each others orbits was really entertaining to watch unfold.
i personally to my knowledge havent done a lot of books where i actively know and am made aware that these are characters in their late 30s/early 40s (so i am by no means any kind of expert lol) but one of the things i appreciate most ESPECIALLY because of how their age was a point made in the trope lists is how mature olivia and duke are. a lot of times when i read characters that are anywhere in their 30s early 40s they still come across as 20 something’s with no fully developed frontal lobe in sight but with these two i was so in love with their communication and the way there was no unnecessary he said she said drama. the way they could lean on one another in times of need without any judgment, the two of them were truly such a good match for one another.
one of my fav things about this book was the found (and literal) family aspect of it all, i LOVED liv and grady’s relationship with one another, i feel like we dont ever really get to see scenarios like this of really good coparenting on all sides where everyone can just be one big family and i truly appreciated the respect everyone had for one another.
this is a book where i truthfully really loved the third act break up. which is something i almost never say because theyre typically for stupid reasons and while yes i personally think olivia was being quite dumb towards the end because the answer was so obvious for ME, it wasnt for her and i think her not being able to let go of her unwavering loyalty to something so obviously wrong for her gave the story a bit more depth and made the reunion sweeter for it. i also really loved the drama of it all to be quite honest, because a lot of times i feel like its never the man begging and pleading to be the more important choice and to be the one the other person chooses and it truly was just *chefs kiss* for me.
i am SO stoked to reread this book with the audio eventually, i cant even begin to imagine how much more obsessed im going to end up being with duke and olivia after it. i cannot wait to see whats to come in the next book!!!
i truly couldnt love duke and olivia more, i loved the history they had behind them, how they literally bumped back into one another and the way they were forced to be back in each others orbits was really entertaining to watch unfold.
i personally to my knowledge havent done a lot of books where i actively know and am made aware that these are characters in their late 30s/early 40s (so i am by no means any kind of expert lol) but one of the things i appreciate most ESPECIALLY because of how their age was a point made in the trope lists is how mature olivia and duke are. a lot of times when i read characters that are anywhere in their 30s early 40s they still come across as 20 something’s with no fully developed frontal lobe in sight but with these two i was so in love with their communication and the way there was no unnecessary he said she said drama. the way they could lean on one another in times of need without any judgment, the two of them were truly such a good match for one another.
one of my fav things about this book was the found (and literal) family aspect of it all, i LOVED liv and grady’s relationship with one another, i feel like we dont ever really get to see scenarios like this of really good coparenting on all sides where everyone can just be one big family and i truly appreciated the respect everyone had for one another.
this is a book where i truthfully really loved the third act break up. which is something i almost never say because theyre typically for stupid reasons and while yes i personally think olivia was being quite dumb towards the end because the answer was so obvious for ME, it wasnt for her and i think her not being able to let go of her unwavering loyalty to something so obviously wrong for her gave the story a bit more depth and made the reunion sweeter for it. i also really loved the drama of it all to be quite honest, because a lot of times i feel like its never the man begging and pleading to be the more important choice and to be the one the other person chooses and it truly was just *chefs kiss* for me.
i am SO stoked to reread this book with the audio eventually, i cant even begin to imagine how much more obsessed im going to end up being with duke and olivia after it. i cannot wait to see whats to come in the next book!!!
April 29, 2026
I love a single parent romance and in One More Round we get two! Olivia is technically a single mom whom we met in After the Rain. Charlie is her daughter with Grady. Duke is her brother’s best friend and a single father to sweet, shy Harper. I loved how complementary Charlie’s and Harper’s personalities are as best friends and then as a blended family.
This story is one of finding love and rediscovering a sense of yourself through grief.
Duke seems like your typical grumpy asshole until we get into his POV. He is struggling and not one to ask for help any more than he absolutely has to. But he has a heart of gold and loves his daughter more than anything.
Olivia is a people pleaser who has put other people’s wants first for a long time. Working in a high-powered career, running a company and having to work doubly hard because you’re a woman is pushing her towards burnout.
After an extremely not meet cute, Olivia extends a metaphorical olive branch and, with the adorable meddling of their daughters, thus begins a friendship that is at times funny, stressful, and filled with tension (both physically and emotionally). The connection and chemistry between these two are so beautifully crafted throughout the story.
The vulnerability, stubbornness, and grief that Amber Palmer imbued into the story and her characters is done with such care. She wrote two people who were a little broken and isolated that learned how to heal and care for themselves and others in a more sustainable way. I loved Olivia and Duke’s journey and if none of that convinced you to read the book.. he’s also got a slutty little mustache and loves to eat. 😏
Tropes:
Brother’s best friend
Single parents
Alcohol use and play
Death of a family member
Neglectful parent (not MCs)
Mention of suicidal thoughts
This story is one of finding love and rediscovering a sense of yourself through grief.
Duke seems like your typical grumpy asshole until we get into his POV. He is struggling and not one to ask for help any more than he absolutely has to. But he has a heart of gold and loves his daughter more than anything.
Olivia is a people pleaser who has put other people’s wants first for a long time. Working in a high-powered career, running a company and having to work doubly hard because you’re a woman is pushing her towards burnout.
After an extremely not meet cute, Olivia extends a metaphorical olive branch and, with the adorable meddling of their daughters, thus begins a friendship that is at times funny, stressful, and filled with tension (both physically and emotionally). The connection and chemistry between these two are so beautifully crafted throughout the story.
The vulnerability, stubbornness, and grief that Amber Palmer imbued into the story and her characters is done with such care. She wrote two people who were a little broken and isolated that learned how to heal and care for themselves and others in a more sustainable way. I loved Olivia and Duke’s journey and if none of that convinced you to read the book.. he’s also got a slutty little mustache and loves to eat. 😏
Tropes:
Brother’s best friend
Single parents
Alcohol use and play
Death of a family member
Neglectful parent (not MCs)
Mention of suicidal thoughts
May 4, 2026
This was my first from Amber Palmer. ..but it definitely won’t be my last! Single dad, bestfriends little sister…she is a boss …quite literally…and Duke is the man to help Olivia enter her soft girl era…
I absolutely loved their dynamic…and while this book has plenty of witty banter and some delicious spice…it is also emotional and had me in all the feels !
I absolutely loved their dynamic…and while this book has plenty of witty banter and some delicious spice…it is also emotional and had me in all the feels !
April 18, 2026
I loved this story so much that I am tempted to go back and reread all of my favorite parts. Amber Palmer has built a love story centered around grief, and made it so tenderly beautiful that you can’t help but appreciate the pain.
Olivia and Duke are still figuring out what they want from life, while navigating some really tough circumstances. You don’t often see main characters who are both divorced, with children. I think that Amber uses this to her advantage, because although their circumstances are vastly different, the sentiment of loving yourself enough to love someone else provides the basis for the perfect slow burn.
Duke and Olivia put their children first, who happen to be best friends, which ends up paving the way for more time spent getting to know each other. As they start opening themselves up to the idea of *more*, we get to see just how soft and safe Duke becomes for Olivia when she needs it. I cannot tell you how many lines I highlighted, just from Duke. He is the gold standard, and I just love his soul.
I’m secretly hoping the next book is about Olivia’s brother, Lukas, because I would love to see a reformed bachelor trope for a super lovable character. His relationship with both Olivia and Duke is just so supportive, and his interactions with the kids makes me feel like he could be more than just the “fun uncle”. Even his easy banter with Grady (Olivia’s ex husband) is so atypical for their dynamic.
Speaking of a certain ex husband.. I was a Grady girl from After the Rain, but I am even more of a fan now. His involvement with Charlie (their daughter), and friendship with Liv’s family, just makes me so happy to see them all forming their own supportive community. And that epilogue was so special, absolutely loved it!!
Highly recommend picking up One More Round when it releases April 28, 2026. Thank you, Amber Palmer, for gifting me with an eARC. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Olivia and Duke are still figuring out what they want from life, while navigating some really tough circumstances. You don’t often see main characters who are both divorced, with children. I think that Amber uses this to her advantage, because although their circumstances are vastly different, the sentiment of loving yourself enough to love someone else provides the basis for the perfect slow burn.
Duke and Olivia put their children first, who happen to be best friends, which ends up paving the way for more time spent getting to know each other. As they start opening themselves up to the idea of *more*, we get to see just how soft and safe Duke becomes for Olivia when she needs it. I cannot tell you how many lines I highlighted, just from Duke. He is the gold standard, and I just love his soul.
I’m secretly hoping the next book is about Olivia’s brother, Lukas, because I would love to see a reformed bachelor trope for a super lovable character. His relationship with both Olivia and Duke is just so supportive, and his interactions with the kids makes me feel like he could be more than just the “fun uncle”. Even his easy banter with Grady (Olivia’s ex husband) is so atypical for their dynamic.
Speaking of a certain ex husband.. I was a Grady girl from After the Rain, but I am even more of a fan now. His involvement with Charlie (their daughter), and friendship with Liv’s family, just makes me so happy to see them all forming their own supportive community. And that epilogue was so special, absolutely loved it!!
Highly recommend picking up One More Round when it releases April 28, 2026. Thank you, Amber Palmer, for gifting me with an eARC. All thoughts expressed are my own.
May 1, 2026
This book was a delight.
Sitting here reflecting on the book and I just really had a good time with this couple. They were so real, relatable, and likable (even if you are a grump Duke). Normally single parents don't do anything for me because I don't have children, but I found myself loving reading their journeys and how they navigated life and relationships while raising young daughters. Olivia's struggle of a work life/family life balance feels like any women's struggle in the world. You felt for her and why she made the decisions she did even if you didn't like them. Duke's willingness to talk about his depression and struggles was a refreshing thing to witness. He did everything he could to provide the best for his daughter but also I loved that he also chose himself when he needed too. Just.. these two are imperfectly perfect.
I do wanna confess that while I had a hard time with Grady and Cleo's book (which made me very sad inside), I think this worked for me BECAUSE Olivia and Grady were already divorced while they weren't for half of Grady's book. I think this lead to me not overthinking things and let me be free to love this book. But that's just my own personal hang up with relationship stuff.
ALSO, Duke is also just a green flag through and through. This man is peak boyfriend material and we all should be jealous of Olivia because.. damn.
This book is just filled with great emotional confessions and healthy relationships. The story was funny and heartfelt. I really have no complaints other than damn John making me cry towards the end which is just MEAN (lol I wasn't prepared to shed tears). Everyone should read this book!
Sitting here reflecting on the book and I just really had a good time with this couple. They were so real, relatable, and likable (even if you are a grump Duke). Normally single parents don't do anything for me because I don't have children, but I found myself loving reading their journeys and how they navigated life and relationships while raising young daughters. Olivia's struggle of a work life/family life balance feels like any women's struggle in the world. You felt for her and why she made the decisions she did even if you didn't like them. Duke's willingness to talk about his depression and struggles was a refreshing thing to witness. He did everything he could to provide the best for his daughter but also I loved that he also chose himself when he needed too. Just.. these two are imperfectly perfect.
I do wanna confess that while I had a hard time with Grady and Cleo's book (which made me very sad inside), I think this worked for me BECAUSE Olivia and Grady were already divorced while they weren't for half of Grady's book. I think this lead to me not overthinking things and let me be free to love this book. But that's just my own personal hang up with relationship stuff.
ALSO, Duke is also just a green flag through and through. This man is peak boyfriend material and we all should be jealous of Olivia because.. damn.
This book is just filled with great emotional confessions and healthy relationships. The story was funny and heartfelt. I really have no complaints other than damn John making me cry towards the end which is just MEAN (lol I wasn't prepared to shed tears). Everyone should read this book!
April 26, 2026
We went from Texas to Tennessee with Grady’s ex wife and Charlie’s mom, Olivia Hart. AS CEO of Hartstring Records, Olivia splits her time between Tennessee and LA. She misses so much time with her daughter and her family, but her dream was to continue the family legacy with the huge record label. It’s worn her down though. When her Uncle gets really sick, she flies home to Pinecrest to be there for her family. She’s so happy to be spending time with her uncle, brother, and her daughter. Being able to be there for every big and small moment makes her so happy. She’s also surprised to find that her brother’s best friend is way different. Single dad and bar owner Duke seems to be beaten down by life and doesn’t want anything to do with Olivia. He’s barely surviving after his wife left him and their daughter. Unfortunately Duke and Liv’s daughters are best friends so they find themselves in each other’s orbit constantly. Duke and Olivia are so freaking cute. The way they end up leaning on eachother is so beautiful. Olivia feels free to be herself for the first time and Duke feels happy and alive for the longest time. The only problem is that Olivia’s time in town was never meant to last. These two are so so sweet and special. I absolutely love them!!! Them with their little girls are the sweetest and I love how they end up thrown together awkwardly all the time until they get used to being around each other lol Their love is so tentative and beautiful. These characters feel so real and their chemistry burns so bright. I love this book so much!!!!!
April 11, 2026
Back to where it all began! And by it, I mean the bar from the first book of the Black Springs Ranch series. Do you need to read that series to love this book? Absolutely not. But will you get lots of little fun winks back to that series if you do? Absolutely you will. Or it might just give you incentive to jump into those once you finish here!
Can I just say how refreshing it is to read a book where the FMC is in her late 30s and the MMC is in his 40s? We love that life experience and frankly, trauma that comes along with age. And you see that with Olivia and Duke.
Tropes you’ll see:
•single parents
•grumpy/sunshjne
•brother’s best friend
•grief/comfort
•divorced MCs
•small town
•soft only for her
If you’re a parent, I think a lot of the worries and fears that Olivia and Duke have in raising their daughters are going to hit home for you. It certainly did for me. And if you have experience with grief, as many of us do, I think you’ll find solace and comfort in their story as well.
Their lives, in the moment we meet them, are heavy. Watching them find each other and crawl out of the darkness was beautiful, and also filled with some tears along the way. But so worth it to see the tension and chemistry that leads to where they end up! I truly didn’t want to put this one down and I love this small town and cast of characters Amber has created.
Thank you to Amber and her team for the early copy!
Can I just say how refreshing it is to read a book where the FMC is in her late 30s and the MMC is in his 40s? We love that life experience and frankly, trauma that comes along with age. And you see that with Olivia and Duke.
Tropes you’ll see:
•single parents
•grumpy/sunshjne
•brother’s best friend
•grief/comfort
•divorced MCs
•small town
•soft only for her
If you’re a parent, I think a lot of the worries and fears that Olivia and Duke have in raising their daughters are going to hit home for you. It certainly did for me. And if you have experience with grief, as many of us do, I think you’ll find solace and comfort in their story as well.
Their lives, in the moment we meet them, are heavy. Watching them find each other and crawl out of the darkness was beautiful, and also filled with some tears along the way. But so worth it to see the tension and chemistry that leads to where they end up! I truly didn’t want to put this one down and I love this small town and cast of characters Amber has created.
Thank you to Amber and her team for the early copy!
April 19, 2026
Thank you to Amber Palmer and Literary Love on the Line for the ARC!
I absolutely devoured this book. Olivia and Duke’s story was everything I want in a small-town romance, emotional with just the right amount of spice. Watching them navigate their personal struggles while trying to show up as single parents added so much depth to their relationship. Olivia wants to put everyone else first and Duke doesn’t want to ask for anything for himself.
They really balanced each other well and their slow burn was perfectly paced. Their buildup felt natural, filled with sweet moments that made it easy to root for them.
And Duke? Easily a favorite!! His protective nature, acts of service, and the way he showed up for his girls, especially Olivia made him impossible not to love. He had that perfect mix of bossy and softness.
I also loved the strong sense of family throughout the story. The blended family dynamic was heartwarming, and the support between everyone added an extra layer of comfort and connection. This was such an easy book to fall into and even easier to love!
Easily one of my favorites for sure and I’m already excited to see what comes next!
I absolutely devoured this book. Olivia and Duke’s story was everything I want in a small-town romance, emotional with just the right amount of spice. Watching them navigate their personal struggles while trying to show up as single parents added so much depth to their relationship. Olivia wants to put everyone else first and Duke doesn’t want to ask for anything for himself.
They really balanced each other well and their slow burn was perfectly paced. Their buildup felt natural, filled with sweet moments that made it easy to root for them.
And Duke? Easily a favorite!! His protective nature, acts of service, and the way he showed up for his girls, especially Olivia made him impossible not to love. He had that perfect mix of bossy and softness.
I also loved the strong sense of family throughout the story. The blended family dynamic was heartwarming, and the support between everyone added an extra layer of comfort and connection. This was such an easy book to fall into and even easier to love!
Easily one of my favorites for sure and I’m already excited to see what comes next!
April 19, 2026
I loved being back in Pinecrest with this crew. I already adored Olivia from Cleo’s story, and getting more of her here just made me love her even more. She’s such a beautiful soul, even while juggling being completely overworked. Then there’s Duke, your classic grumpy, heartbroken man who’s been through it. These two were exactly what each other needed, even if it took them time to get there. The brother’s best friend dynamic added just the right tension, and the slow burn really worked for their story with a satisfying ending.
I also loved the single parent aspect. Charlie is such a spitfire while Harper is more reserved, and together they just made sense as a family. The grief woven throughout added a deeper emotional layer that really stuck with me. I walked away with the reminder to not live with regrets, and I’m already excited to see where Lukas’s story goes next.
I also loved the single parent aspect. Charlie is such a spitfire while Harper is more reserved, and together they just made sense as a family. The grief woven throughout added a deeper emotional layer that really stuck with me. I walked away with the reminder to not live with regrets, and I’m already excited to see where Lukas’s story goes next.
April 27, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up!
"what do you say, mr. bennett? up for one more round?"
this was so cute and bingeable, and it pulled in my heartstrings more times than i can count.
i'm so glad olivia got a book because i've been dying for her to be the main character since she was introduced as charlie's mom. i knew she had a story to tell after i read after the rain, and it did not disappoint.
harper and charlie were absolutely adorable. they're best friends and so good for each other. i think seeing them interact and just be kids healed a part of me.
duke was soooo sexy. period. he has a dirty mouth but he's respectful and sweet, i loved him. olivia was very stroong and stubborn, much like myself. she's hardworking and determined, and the oldest daughter, which comes with a sense of guilt and responsibility for things that aren't up to her to figure out, even though she feels obligated to (i feel so heavily for her). her people pleasing tendencies were so relatable and /real/, but duke was right there to stand beside her and make her feel seen.
i'm so excited for the next book and what comes next! thank you so much to amber for the e-arc! 🩷🎵
♪ small town
♪ divorced mcs
♪ single parents
♪ grumpy x sunshine
♪ brother's best friend
"what do you say, mr. bennett? up for one more round?"
this was so cute and bingeable, and it pulled in my heartstrings more times than i can count.
i'm so glad olivia got a book because i've been dying for her to be the main character since she was introduced as charlie's mom. i knew she had a story to tell after i read after the rain, and it did not disappoint.
harper and charlie were absolutely adorable. they're best friends and so good for each other. i think seeing them interact and just be kids healed a part of me.
duke was soooo sexy. period. he has a dirty mouth but he's respectful and sweet, i loved him. olivia was very stroong and stubborn, much like myself. she's hardworking and determined, and the oldest daughter, which comes with a sense of guilt and responsibility for things that aren't up to her to figure out, even though she feels obligated to (i feel so heavily for her). her people pleasing tendencies were so relatable and /real/, but duke was right there to stand beside her and make her feel seen.
i'm so excited for the next book and what comes next! thank you so much to amber for the e-arc! 🩷🎵
♪ small town
♪ divorced mcs
♪ single parents
♪ grumpy x sunshine
♪ brother's best friend
April 30, 2026
This book HIT THE SPOT!!! Everything I was wanting in a book during this month of weird personal reading vibes. Duke and Olivia were fun and vulnerable and heartbreaking and made me feel all the emotions but like not in a super sad and depressing way. I had the best time reading this book and will definitely be reading more Amber Palmer books!
April 28, 2026
One More Round is a breathtaking reminder that sometimes going home is exactly what the heart needs to heal. Amber Palmer delivers the ultimate grumpy x sunshine perfection in Duke and Olivia. These two divorced single parents brought out all the feels while trying to navigate grief and the heavy weight of expectations.
Duke is the really the gold standard book boyfriend! While he came across as a big grump in the beginning, once his armor dropped, this man would move mountains for his girls. It's pretty sexy to see a man can be protective and bossy while still being vulnerable about his own mental health and insecurities. Watching him become Olivia’s safe place while she finds the courage to finally choose herself over her career was raw, beautiful, and deeply emotional.
The chemistry here is electric (that bar scene—wow!!!), but the soul of this story lies in the blended family dynamics. Their daughters, Charlie and Harper, are best friends who tie this story together, turning a slow burn romance into a heartwarming story about community and resilience. This book is a tender, spicy, and tear-jerking masterpiece that I absolutely devoured! I can't wait for more books in Pinecrest Ridge!
Duke is the really the gold standard book boyfriend! While he came across as a big grump in the beginning, once his armor dropped, this man would move mountains for his girls. It's pretty sexy to see a man can be protective and bossy while still being vulnerable about his own mental health and insecurities. Watching him become Olivia’s safe place while she finds the courage to finally choose herself over her career was raw, beautiful, and deeply emotional.
The chemistry here is electric (that bar scene—wow!!!), but the soul of this story lies in the blended family dynamics. Their daughters, Charlie and Harper, are best friends who tie this story together, turning a slow burn romance into a heartwarming story about community and resilience. This book is a tender, spicy, and tear-jerking masterpiece that I absolutely devoured! I can't wait for more books in Pinecrest Ridge!
April 26, 2026
One More Round by Amber Palmer is book one in her new series, Pinecrest Ridge. I loved this book so much.
What can you expect?
🏡 Small-town romance
👩👧👦 Single parents
☀️ Grumpy × sunshine 🌧️
💔 Divorced MCs
👀 Brother’s best friend
🫶 Grief/comfort
👨🍳 He cooks for her
💘 Only soft for her
🧑🤝🧑 Older MCs (he’s 42, she’s 37)
5 ⭐️| 2.5 🌶️
Amber Palmer did it again. This book was everything I was expecting and more. Olivia and Duke have known each other since they were kids, but nothing romantic, until Olivia came back home because her uncle is dying, so she’s going to spend her time there with him and her family. Because of her job as the CEO of a record company, she is barely at home and doesn't see her daughter often. On the other hand, we have Duke. His wife left him and their daughter, Harper. He owns a bar and they live in a small cabin behind it, and he is doing his best to survive. Their daughters are best friends, and their first encounter didn’t go well. Because of their daughters, they started to spend more time together, and things started to shift between them.
I loved Olivia in After the Rain (Cleo & Grady’s book). I love how she supported Grady to get back to his high school sweetheart, but she hasn’t been in a relationship for a long time. Now, she’s working more and barely has time to be with her daughter, Charlie, her brother, or anyone in her family. She’s conflicted, and as a woman she has to work more to show she’s able to perform her role as CEO. As she is in Pinecrest, she starts to live and enjoy her time there, and she starts to realize that her job isn’t making her happy. When her uncle passes away, Duke becomes someone there for her, someone she can trust. Neither of them wants to cross the line because, at some point, she needs to leave.
Duke, as a single father, and after his wife's abandonment, entered a dark place, where John, Olivia’s uncle, helped him enormously. He started to go to therapy and get back on track with Harper. Olivia started to change that grumpy demeanor, and he felt better since she started being in their lives. That man was amazing. He pushed her, he cooked for her, and took care of her as no one had done for her before. He started to develop feelings for her, and he was scared because eventually she was going to leave, but he’s doing his best to try to convince her to stay there, not just for him but for his daughter and brother.
I love it every time they go out together with their daughters. I loved Charlie and Harper’s relationship so much, how they were inseparable. Those times were so cute, and you see what a beautiful blended family they could be. After a kiss, he wanted more, but he didn't want to cross the line when Olivia showed up at his bar. OMG! That scene was so sexy! I mean bar counter, body shot? HOT! The spice was so good, and Duke was a dirty talker!!! But more than that, he felt insecure about his body, and she did a great job making him confident. I love them and how they loved each other.
That surprise trip to the cabin? So beautiful! Amber, you broke my heart! I was almost crying after he confessed his feelings. That scene was heartbreaking. Olivia was conflicted, she loved him, but she didn’t know how she could manage her career, family legacy, and her happiness. That letter to her uncle let her know what she needed to hear. I wish that she hadn't ghosted him and Harper for two months while she was dealing with everything, but I also understand why she did it. She wanted to show him she was all in when everything was complete.
The side characters? Lukas, Grady & Cleo were great in this story. Seeing Grady & Cleo, and Olivia’s relationship after two years was amazing. They did well co-parenting and being together.
Oh, and every time Duke called her honey? SWOON!!! I really loved their story, how real it felt, how in the midst of grief they found comfort in each other. How, after everything tragic, great things can happen. I love how Duke started to be more present with Harper and how he balanced everything. I loved how Olivia figured out that you don’t have to stay in a place that makes you miserable, that no matter what, you can change your path. Duke thought at some point about what he could offer her, since she’s the owner of a billionaire company, but as Grady and Lukas explained to him, just being there for her, caring for her, and making her happy was what she needed. I loved how they rooted for their relationship.
I could go on and on about what I love about this book, but I highly recommend it. I can’t wait for the second book and see what Amber has for us next.
Thank you so much, Amber and her team, for the advance copy. This review reflects my honest thoughts.
What can you expect?
🏡 Small-town romance
👩👧👦 Single parents
☀️ Grumpy × sunshine 🌧️
💔 Divorced MCs
👀 Brother’s best friend
🫶 Grief/comfort
👨🍳 He cooks for her
💘 Only soft for her
🧑🤝🧑 Older MCs (he’s 42, she’s 37)
5 ⭐️| 2.5 🌶️
Amber Palmer did it again. This book was everything I was expecting and more. Olivia and Duke have known each other since they were kids, but nothing romantic, until Olivia came back home because her uncle is dying, so she’s going to spend her time there with him and her family. Because of her job as the CEO of a record company, she is barely at home and doesn't see her daughter often. On the other hand, we have Duke. His wife left him and their daughter, Harper. He owns a bar and they live in a small cabin behind it, and he is doing his best to survive. Their daughters are best friends, and their first encounter didn’t go well. Because of their daughters, they started to spend more time together, and things started to shift between them.
I loved Olivia in After the Rain (Cleo & Grady’s book). I love how she supported Grady to get back to his high school sweetheart, but she hasn’t been in a relationship for a long time. Now, she’s working more and barely has time to be with her daughter, Charlie, her brother, or anyone in her family. She’s conflicted, and as a woman she has to work more to show she’s able to perform her role as CEO. As she is in Pinecrest, she starts to live and enjoy her time there, and she starts to realize that her job isn’t making her happy. When her uncle passes away, Duke becomes someone there for her, someone she can trust. Neither of them wants to cross the line because, at some point, she needs to leave.
Duke, as a single father, and after his wife's abandonment, entered a dark place, where John, Olivia’s uncle, helped him enormously. He started to go to therapy and get back on track with Harper. Olivia started to change that grumpy demeanor, and he felt better since she started being in their lives. That man was amazing. He pushed her, he cooked for her, and took care of her as no one had done for her before. He started to develop feelings for her, and he was scared because eventually she was going to leave, but he’s doing his best to try to convince her to stay there, not just for him but for his daughter and brother.
I love it every time they go out together with their daughters. I loved Charlie and Harper’s relationship so much, how they were inseparable. Those times were so cute, and you see what a beautiful blended family they could be. After a kiss, he wanted more, but he didn't want to cross the line when Olivia showed up at his bar. OMG! That scene was so sexy! I mean bar counter, body shot? HOT! The spice was so good, and Duke was a dirty talker!!! But more than that, he felt insecure about his body, and she did a great job making him confident. I love them and how they loved each other.
That surprise trip to the cabin? So beautiful! Amber, you broke my heart! I was almost crying after he confessed his feelings. That scene was heartbreaking. Olivia was conflicted, she loved him, but she didn’t know how she could manage her career, family legacy, and her happiness. That letter to her uncle let her know what she needed to hear. I wish that she hadn't ghosted him and Harper for two months while she was dealing with everything, but I also understand why she did it. She wanted to show him she was all in when everything was complete.
The side characters? Lukas, Grady & Cleo were great in this story. Seeing Grady & Cleo, and Olivia’s relationship after two years was amazing. They did well co-parenting and being together.
Oh, and every time Duke called her honey? SWOON!!! I really loved their story, how real it felt, how in the midst of grief they found comfort in each other. How, after everything tragic, great things can happen. I love how Duke started to be more present with Harper and how he balanced everything. I loved how Olivia figured out that you don’t have to stay in a place that makes you miserable, that no matter what, you can change your path. Duke thought at some point about what he could offer her, since she’s the owner of a billionaire company, but as Grady and Lukas explained to him, just being there for her, caring for her, and making her happy was what she needed. I loved how they rooted for their relationship.
I could go on and on about what I love about this book, but I highly recommend it. I can’t wait for the second book and see what Amber has for us next.
Thank you so much, Amber and her team, for the advance copy. This review reflects my honest thoughts.
April 21, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
Olivia x Duke
💖 Grumpy/Sunshine
💖 Older characters
💖 Single parents
💖 Grief/comfort
💖 Small town
💖 Brothers best friend
Olivia Hart is a fierce CEO for her family’s record label, struggling with work life balance. Always trying to make everyone else happy, putting on a tough face, but truthfully she’s miserable.
Duke Bennett, the owner of the local bar, is broody, introverted and depressed. He’s just trying his hardest to work through his mental health struggles and make a good life for his daughter after his wife bailed on them. Life has just felt so hard for him.
They’ve known each other basically forever and grew up together. But it was never like that. He was always just her brothers best friend. But now Olivia is back in town, and while reluctant on his part at first, they begin form a sweet friendship through their daughters and slowly he comes back to life.
𝘙𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘰𝘭𝘴…
I loved the single parent aspect and in general the parenting of young strong willed children felt so relatable. Also the banter with the guys was fun and I loved Lukas and Duke’s relationship. I’m hoping Lukas gets a book too! That man deserves someone amazing.
The way Duke comforts Olivia when she’s dealing with so much grief (and he himself as well) just melted my heart. And Duke’s self doubt was so sad, but I loved how Olivia was so reassuring and made him feel worthy. It’s a slow burn but eventually they give into the pull they feel for each other 🔥 This man has a mouth on him…
I’m so looking forward to more in the Pinecrest series 💖 Thank you to @literaryloveontheline and @amberpalmerauthor for the opportunity to read this ARC!!
Olivia x Duke
💖 Grumpy/Sunshine
💖 Older characters
💖 Single parents
💖 Grief/comfort
💖 Small town
💖 Brothers best friend
Olivia Hart is a fierce CEO for her family’s record label, struggling with work life balance. Always trying to make everyone else happy, putting on a tough face, but truthfully she’s miserable.
Duke Bennett, the owner of the local bar, is broody, introverted and depressed. He’s just trying his hardest to work through his mental health struggles and make a good life for his daughter after his wife bailed on them. Life has just felt so hard for him.
They’ve known each other basically forever and grew up together. But it was never like that. He was always just her brothers best friend. But now Olivia is back in town, and while reluctant on his part at first, they begin form a sweet friendship through their daughters and slowly he comes back to life.
𝘙𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘰𝘭𝘴…
I loved the single parent aspect and in general the parenting of young strong willed children felt so relatable. Also the banter with the guys was fun and I loved Lukas and Duke’s relationship. I’m hoping Lukas gets a book too! That man deserves someone amazing.
The way Duke comforts Olivia when she’s dealing with so much grief (and he himself as well) just melted my heart. And Duke’s self doubt was so sad, but I loved how Olivia was so reassuring and made him feel worthy. It’s a slow burn but eventually they give into the pull they feel for each other 🔥 This man has a mouth on him…
I’m so looking forward to more in the Pinecrest series 💖 Thank you to @literaryloveontheline and @amberpalmerauthor for the opportunity to read this ARC!!
April 21, 2026
Amber Palmer does it again! There aren’t enough words in my vocabulary to explain to you how much I loved this book. If she wasn’t already an auto-buy author, this book solidified it. I loved Olivia and Duke’s story so much!! They literally deserve the world.
One More Round is book one in a brand new series and if the following books are anything like this one, I am all in baby!
Tropes:
- small town romance
- Slow burn
- Single parents
- Brother’s best friend
- Divorced MCs
- Grief/comfort
- Grumpy x sunshine
We meet Olivia in “After The Rain” and I can’t lie, I wasn’t sure I would like, much less relate to her. She is raw, real, and self-assured but can be so hard on herself. She strives to be the best mom she can be to Charlie, while also living her dreams of running her family’s business Hartstrings. Duke is her brother Lukas’ best friend: he’s grumpy and prefers to be alone; he has his walls up due to his ex-wife leaving him and his daughter Harper. Let’s not forget, these two also grew up together. There’s tension from day one, and baby you can feel it. The spice? Perfect. The character development? Also perfect.
I loved watching Duke become the complete opposite of who he was in the beginning; he cares for Olivia like the man who can only be written by a woman (obviously). He quickly flew up to the top of my list of book boyfriends! He doesn’t always say much but best believe I’m listening when he talks.
Thank you to the author and Love Match PR for the opportunity to read this book before release date!
One More Round is book one in a brand new series and if the following books are anything like this one, I am all in baby!
Tropes:
- small town romance
- Slow burn
- Single parents
- Brother’s best friend
- Divorced MCs
- Grief/comfort
- Grumpy x sunshine
We meet Olivia in “After The Rain” and I can’t lie, I wasn’t sure I would like, much less relate to her. She is raw, real, and self-assured but can be so hard on herself. She strives to be the best mom she can be to Charlie, while also living her dreams of running her family’s business Hartstrings. Duke is her brother Lukas’ best friend: he’s grumpy and prefers to be alone; he has his walls up due to his ex-wife leaving him and his daughter Harper. Let’s not forget, these two also grew up together. There’s tension from day one, and baby you can feel it. The spice? Perfect. The character development? Also perfect.
I loved watching Duke become the complete opposite of who he was in the beginning; he cares for Olivia like the man who can only be written by a woman (obviously). He quickly flew up to the top of my list of book boyfriends! He doesn’t always say much but best believe I’m listening when he talks.
Thank you to the author and Love Match PR for the opportunity to read this book before release date!
May 1, 2026
I devoured this book!! I love a good slutty mustache and I am here for Duke!!
Although Duke came off a little eh in the beginning, he redeemed himself hard! He had his walls up for good reason but behind Olivia’s brother’s best friend, they had a history.
To be fair, Olivia didn’t come off all that nice at first either. She was under high stress and took it out on Duke, only to try to make it up to him later. She is a baddie though - in a male-dominated profession, she takes no prisoners and I love that! I’m sad what the circumstances were that brought her home but I’m glad it did - she was already feeling like she was missing things in her daughter’s life.
Having the past that they did, crossing paths years later, they were quick to judge each other. Once they broke through each other’s walls, you could not deny their chemistry. The way they helped each other process the grief…it made me love them both even more - I needed help processing the grief myself honestly.
I loved that Duke’s love language was more physical touch and acts of service because that’s me to a tee but also - I WANT THAT TOO!!!
Highly recommend this book! It’ll make you love Olivia if you weren’t a fan before! Thank you Amber and team for having me on the early review team!! Loved every second of this book even when the tears were rolling. All opinions are my own and I can’t wait to see where you take us next 🩷
Although Duke came off a little eh in the beginning, he redeemed himself hard! He had his walls up for good reason but behind Olivia’s brother’s best friend, they had a history.
To be fair, Olivia didn’t come off all that nice at first either. She was under high stress and took it out on Duke, only to try to make it up to him later. She is a baddie though - in a male-dominated profession, she takes no prisoners and I love that! I’m sad what the circumstances were that brought her home but I’m glad it did - she was already feeling like she was missing things in her daughter’s life.
Having the past that they did, crossing paths years later, they were quick to judge each other. Once they broke through each other’s walls, you could not deny their chemistry. The way they helped each other process the grief…it made me love them both even more - I needed help processing the grief myself honestly.
I loved that Duke’s love language was more physical touch and acts of service because that’s me to a tee but also - I WANT THAT TOO!!!
Highly recommend this book! It’ll make you love Olivia if you weren’t a fan before! Thank you Amber and team for having me on the early review team!! Loved every second of this book even when the tears were rolling. All opinions are my own and I can’t wait to see where you take us next 🩷
April 12, 2026
We're back in the town where it all began, with somewhat new characters and an adorable love story 🥃
Firstly, thanks to the author and Love on the Line for sending me an early copy of this book and trusting me with her work. Since I really enjoyed the Black Springs Ranch series, I had high expectations for this one. Some of the characters had already been mentioned in Cleo and Grady's story, which made me even more curious. That said, I expected a bit more out of this one 😅
Don't get me wrong - I finished this in no time. But I found myself getting bored in the second half. Not much happened, and I started to feel indifferent towards the characters.
Duke came across as a bit of an asshole at the beginning and although his behaviour was quickly explained, I still couldn't get over it and it continued to irritate me throughout the story. Olivia, on the other hand, is so set on going back to the city for a job she doesn't love and it was beyond frustrating to watch Duke beg and beg for her to stay only to be shot down time and time again. Honestly, he kinda deserved better 👀
Still, they had their moments, and I adored the friendship between their daughters, Charlie and Harper.
I also loved the little mentions of Cleo and Grady - and that time jump? It hurt, but I'm here for it.
3.5 ⭐️ ARC Review
Firstly, thanks to the author and Love on the Line for sending me an early copy of this book and trusting me with her work. Since I really enjoyed the Black Springs Ranch series, I had high expectations for this one. Some of the characters had already been mentioned in Cleo and Grady's story, which made me even more curious. That said, I expected a bit more out of this one 😅
Don't get me wrong - I finished this in no time. But I found myself getting bored in the second half. Not much happened, and I started to feel indifferent towards the characters.
Duke came across as a bit of an asshole at the beginning and although his behaviour was quickly explained, I still couldn't get over it and it continued to irritate me throughout the story. Olivia, on the other hand, is so set on going back to the city for a job she doesn't love and it was beyond frustrating to watch Duke beg and beg for her to stay only to be shot down time and time again. Honestly, he kinda deserved better 👀
Still, they had their moments, and I adored the friendship between their daughters, Charlie and Harper.
I also loved the little mentions of Cleo and Grady - and that time jump? It hurt, but I'm here for it.
3.5 ⭐️ ARC Review
April 28, 2026
“Even when you think you’re not. You’re perfect to me.”
This is one of those sweet series that just feels like coming back home every single time! It is such a comfy, feel good place that is healing for the heart & soul 🫶🏼
I rooted for Olivia to get her own HEA for the entirety of “After The Rain” & this was everything I could’ve wished for & more!
Duke & Liv are both divorced, single parents struggling to find a happy work/life balance in very different ways.
Awkwardly crossing paths again after many years, they just can’t stop thinking about one another 🫦 But she’s his best friend’s sister, their daughters are besties, & they bicker like crazy. Oh, & her time in Pinecrest is nearing its end.
The banter, forbidden temptation & slow burn tension are absolutely delicious 🥵 Making that moment the spice hits so d^mn satisfying & HOT! Duke Bennet, the man that you are 🔥
As they break down each other’s walls & succumb to their undeniable desires, they may just find something worth truly fighting for 🥺
“Olivia brought light back into my life & made me feel hopeful about the prospect of an infinite number of tomorrows.”
Small Town Romance
Both Divorced / Single Parents
Starting Over After 30+
Brother’s Best Friend
Daughter’s Bestie’s Dad
Green Flag MMC with a Dirty Mouth
^ Complete with a Slutty Little Mustache
One Bed
Found Family
This is one of those sweet series that just feels like coming back home every single time! It is such a comfy, feel good place that is healing for the heart & soul 🫶🏼
I rooted for Olivia to get her own HEA for the entirety of “After The Rain” & this was everything I could’ve wished for & more!
Duke & Liv are both divorced, single parents struggling to find a happy work/life balance in very different ways.
Awkwardly crossing paths again after many years, they just can’t stop thinking about one another 🫦 But she’s his best friend’s sister, their daughters are besties, & they bicker like crazy. Oh, & her time in Pinecrest is nearing its end.
The banter, forbidden temptation & slow burn tension are absolutely delicious 🥵 Making that moment the spice hits so d^mn satisfying & HOT! Duke Bennet, the man that you are 🔥
As they break down each other’s walls & succumb to their undeniable desires, they may just find something worth truly fighting for 🥺
“Olivia brought light back into my life & made me feel hopeful about the prospect of an infinite number of tomorrows.”
Small Town Romance
Both Divorced / Single Parents
Starting Over After 30+
Brother’s Best Friend
Daughter’s Bestie’s Dad
Green Flag MMC with a Dirty Mouth
^ Complete with a Slutty Little Mustache
One Bed
Found Family
May 1, 2026
**ARC REVIEW**
One More Round is book #1 in the Pinecrest Ridge series by Amber Palmer
My rating: 5⭐️'s
Spicy rating: 🔥🔥
You will love this one, if you enjoy these tropes:
🩷 Grumpy/Sunshine
🎲 Single Parents
🩷 Divorced MCs
🎲 Brother’s Best Friend
🩷 Grief/Comfort
🎲 He cooks for her
🩷 Soft only for her
🎲 Older MCs (He’s in his 40s and she’s in her late 30s)
🩷 Small Town
My Thoughts
Firstly, book me a one way ticket to Pinecrest Ridge.
As someone who is in her 30's, it was so nice to get a couple that was around my age!!
Duke and Olivia were so perfect together and I love that they found comfort in each other.
Duke is the swoony single dad and I loved that he showed how much he cared for Olivia. I loved how Olivia was a bada$$ woman balancing being the CEO of Hartstring Records but also a mom to her daughter.
It was a bit of a slow burn love story but when they finally get together and give in to their chemistry it was sooooo hot!
I loved also reading how both their daughters were besties *cries*
Overall, I loved this book so much for my first Amber Palmer book and I cannot wait to read more from her!!
Thank you so much to Amber and her team for kindly sending me an arc to read and review. This is my own honest opinion on the book :)
One More Round is book #1 in the Pinecrest Ridge series by Amber Palmer
My rating: 5⭐️'s
Spicy rating: 🔥🔥
You will love this one, if you enjoy these tropes:
🩷 Grumpy/Sunshine
🎲 Single Parents
🩷 Divorced MCs
🎲 Brother’s Best Friend
🩷 Grief/Comfort
🎲 He cooks for her
🩷 Soft only for her
🎲 Older MCs (He’s in his 40s and she’s in her late 30s)
🩷 Small Town
My Thoughts
Firstly, book me a one way ticket to Pinecrest Ridge.
As someone who is in her 30's, it was so nice to get a couple that was around my age!!
Duke and Olivia were so perfect together and I love that they found comfort in each other.
Duke is the swoony single dad and I loved that he showed how much he cared for Olivia. I loved how Olivia was a bada$$ woman balancing being the CEO of Hartstring Records but also a mom to her daughter.
It was a bit of a slow burn love story but when they finally get together and give in to their chemistry it was sooooo hot!
I loved also reading how both their daughters were besties *cries*
Overall, I loved this book so much for my first Amber Palmer book and I cannot wait to read more from her!!
Thank you so much to Amber and her team for kindly sending me an arc to read and review. This is my own honest opinion on the book :)
April 25, 2026
4.5⭐️
Welcome to Pinecrest! What a way to kick off a new series!
We met Olivia in After the Rain so I loved getting more of her as the FMC in this book. She is powerful, fierce and a badass in the CEO realm, but as a mother, sister and friend she shows a beautiful softness with those she loves.
Duke is Olivia’s brother’s (Lukas) best friend since childhood. He bought the town bar from Lincoln (throwback to Between the Pines) and has a jaded life view with a chip on his shoulder.
I wasn’t sure how to feel about Duke with his attitude the first few interactions with Olivia after years, but he grew on me FAST!
This man is loyal, steadfast, and vulnerable in a powerful way. The way he shared his own body image insecurities and mental health struggles from his divorce was so refreshing with a MMC!
I absolutely LOVED the way they both kept each of their daughters involved in everything and the kids weren’t lost in the story. The girls were total opposites and added so much to their HEA journey.
I do wish we got more of what Olivia was doing when she left and felt her leaving was brought up too much at times.
Thanks to Love on the Line for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Welcome to Pinecrest! What a way to kick off a new series!
We met Olivia in After the Rain so I loved getting more of her as the FMC in this book. She is powerful, fierce and a badass in the CEO realm, but as a mother, sister and friend she shows a beautiful softness with those she loves.
Duke is Olivia’s brother’s (Lukas) best friend since childhood. He bought the town bar from Lincoln (throwback to Between the Pines) and has a jaded life view with a chip on his shoulder.
I wasn’t sure how to feel about Duke with his attitude the first few interactions with Olivia after years, but he grew on me FAST!
This man is loyal, steadfast, and vulnerable in a powerful way. The way he shared his own body image insecurities and mental health struggles from his divorce was so refreshing with a MMC!
I absolutely LOVED the way they both kept each of their daughters involved in everything and the kids weren’t lost in the story. The girls were total opposites and added so much to their HEA journey.
I do wish we got more of what Olivia was doing when she left and felt her leaving was brought up too much at times.
Thanks to Love on the Line for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 6, 2026
blew me away
I didn’t have high expectations going into this because I wasn’t too sure about Olivia BUT I fell in love with literally every single character. I laughed and I cried. This book pulled on my heartstrings more than once. I wholeheartedly adore Olivia and my heart broke repeatedly for her and her situation. Her pull to continue her families legacy or be present with her family and build a future and home. I am so grateful for the ending. I don’t know how much more my heart could have taken.
Don’t even get me started on Duke Bennett. This man was everything. Mr. Grump whose action spoke SO much louder than his actual words— I loved him! He is the quiet, yet strong type. The man who will literally work himself to the bone. Watching him find himself and rediscover his relationship with his daughter and Olivia was beautiful! This man was down for literally anything and the most perfect girl dad! His relationship with Lukas and Grady was also just icing on the cake!
Honorable mentions for the sweetest girls ever— Harper and Charlie & the real MVP Cleo!
Literally could not have loved a single character more in this book!
So, so good!
What to expect:
• brothers best friend
• found family
• grief / comfort
• grumpy x sunshine
I didn’t have high expectations going into this because I wasn’t too sure about Olivia BUT I fell in love with literally every single character. I laughed and I cried. This book pulled on my heartstrings more than once. I wholeheartedly adore Olivia and my heart broke repeatedly for her and her situation. Her pull to continue her families legacy or be present with her family and build a future and home. I am so grateful for the ending. I don’t know how much more my heart could have taken.
Don’t even get me started on Duke Bennett. This man was everything. Mr. Grump whose action spoke SO much louder than his actual words— I loved him! He is the quiet, yet strong type. The man who will literally work himself to the bone. Watching him find himself and rediscover his relationship with his daughter and Olivia was beautiful! This man was down for literally anything and the most perfect girl dad! His relationship with Lukas and Grady was also just icing on the cake!
Honorable mentions for the sweetest girls ever— Harper and Charlie & the real MVP Cleo!
Literally could not have loved a single character more in this book!
So, so good!
What to expect:
• brothers best friend
• found family
• grief / comfort
• grumpy x sunshine
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