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Return to Dublin Street #3
Hart Street Lane
A steamy fake engagement romance from New York Times Bestselling Author Samantha Young.
Faking it has never been so hard…
Breaking up with my fiancé wasn’t on my agenda this summer, neither was hiding the truth from everyone, including my colleagues at Pennington’s department store. But that tiny evasion gets me into trouble when I’m forced to play bride-to-be for our new marketing campaign. If my boss finds out I’ve lied to her, it won’t just be my reputation on the line; it’ll be my job.
Enter my new bestie, Baird McMillan. Professional goalkeeper, professional heartbreaker, and now my professional fake fiancé. Baird’s public escapades have gotten him on the wrong side of his football club’s new owner, and he needs to prove he’s settling down. A fake engagement is a win-win for us both.
There’s just one problem. It turns out there’s nothing fake about the explosive connection Baird and I share.
I may not have been looking for love, but every moment with Baird tempts me to reach for it. Yet just as I start to believe a future together could be a real possibility, our pasts come surging back with a vengeance. And with it, those who will do anything to destroy our chance at forever…
Faking it has never been so hard…
Breaking up with my fiancé wasn’t on my agenda this summer, neither was hiding the truth from everyone, including my colleagues at Pennington’s department store. But that tiny evasion gets me into trouble when I’m forced to play bride-to-be for our new marketing campaign. If my boss finds out I’ve lied to her, it won’t just be my reputation on the line; it’ll be my job.
Enter my new bestie, Baird McMillan. Professional goalkeeper, professional heartbreaker, and now my professional fake fiancé. Baird’s public escapades have gotten him on the wrong side of his football club’s new owner, and he needs to prove he’s settling down. A fake engagement is a win-win for us both.
There’s just one problem. It turns out there’s nothing fake about the explosive connection Baird and I share.
I may not have been looking for love, but every moment with Baird tempts me to reach for it. Yet just as I start to believe a future together could be a real possibility, our pasts come surging back with a vengeance. And with it, those who will do anything to destroy our chance at forever…
412 pages, Paperback
First published November 24, 2025
386 people are currently reading
2374 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Young
114 books28.4k followersSamantha is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and a Goodreads Choice Awards Nominee. Samantha has written over 60 books and is published in 31 countries. She writes emotional and angsty romance, often set where she resides—in her beloved home country Scotland. Samantha splits her time between her family, writing and chasing after two very mischievous cavapoos.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 493 reviews
March 19, 2025
Leaving this 5-star rating just to spite whoever gave this UNRELEASED book a 1 star.
Ridiculous.
Ridiculous.
January 21, 2026
4 stars
When Maia and her fiancé break up, she's left in an uncomfortable situation and in the lurch with her job after being an essential part of a campaign. That's where her best friend Baird comes into the picture, and the two pretend to fake date in order for Maia to keep her job. The only thing Maia doesn't know is Baird has been in love with her the whole time and will take this opportunity to convince her they are perfect together.
First off, this book had so much going on and all of it was shoved into 400 pages. While I overall very much enjoyed this book, I think there was too much going on and some stuff could have been cut out. I was very glad we got Maia's story, Moonlight on Nightingale Way is one of my most reread books from the On Dublin Street series, so to have that continue on in this series was a reader dream come true. I loved Baird and Maia together, I thought Young did a great job with the balance between the two of them and how well they communicated with each other.
I also greatly appreciated that she didn't include a stalker subplot or anyone getting attacked. I say that because it feels like her last 10 books have had that element included and it's getting very tiresome. Thrilled to have this next generation series and am excited for more to come!
When Maia and her fiancé break up, she's left in an uncomfortable situation and in the lurch with her job after being an essential part of a campaign. That's where her best friend Baird comes into the picture, and the two pretend to fake date in order for Maia to keep her job. The only thing Maia doesn't know is Baird has been in love with her the whole time and will take this opportunity to convince her they are perfect together.
First off, this book had so much going on and all of it was shoved into 400 pages. While I overall very much enjoyed this book, I think there was too much going on and some stuff could have been cut out. I was very glad we got Maia's story, Moonlight on Nightingale Way is one of my most reread books from the On Dublin Street series, so to have that continue on in this series was a reader dream come true. I loved Baird and Maia together, I thought Young did a great job with the balance between the two of them and how well they communicated with each other.
I also greatly appreciated that she didn't include a stalker subplot or anyone getting attacked. I say that because it feels like her last 10 books have had that element included and it's getting very tiresome. Thrilled to have this next generation series and am excited for more to come!
February 11, 2026
I looooove a man obsessed, so I was so in love with how much Baird loved Maia right from the start!! The only problem was, she was already engaged when they became friends. When she dumps her fiancé, though, Baird doesn't hesitate to step in as her fake fiancé and knows it's his time to finally win her for real. I really loved their relationship and how much Baird was just so in love and protective of her! The different events they had to do for their fake engagement were so fun and I loved seeing all of the On Dublin Street characters! Nothing can beat a friends to lovers romance from Samantha Young!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just thought Baird & Maia were so sweet together. Their friendship was so beautiful and I loved watching them get to know one another in a new way as they take on this engagement. I couldn't believe the gall of Maia's fiance when he asked her to "wait" while he figured out his feelings about an ex-girlfriend. That was beyond the pale. Seeing Baird step up to help her with her deal at work, was just perfection.
They both have insecurities that the other can't see and watching them support one another, was just... everything. All the people in their life know they are over their heads, but watching them realize it was so satisfying. Baird especially, just showed up for Maia, again and again. It takes her a little bit to start trusting him, given his persona in the past, but once she does, he is her safest place.
I just really enjoyed this one so much, and I listened to it almost in one sitting. The audio was narrated by Shane East & Mhairi Morrison and they did a wonderful job.
5 Stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: gas-lighting partner, backstabbing at work, PTSD
*Thank you to Must Love Audio, Valentine PR, and the Author for advanced copies of this book!*
They both have insecurities that the other can't see and watching them support one another, was just... everything. All the people in their life know they are over their heads, but watching them realize it was so satisfying. Baird especially, just showed up for Maia, again and again. It takes her a little bit to start trusting him, given his persona in the past, but once she does, he is her safest place.
I just really enjoyed this one so much, and I listened to it almost in one sitting. The audio was narrated by Shane East & Mhairi Morrison and they did a wonderful job.
5 Stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: gas-lighting partner, backstabbing at work, PTSD
*Thank you to Must Love Audio, Valentine PR, and the Author for advanced copies of this book!*
January 5, 2026
OH MY GOD. I ATE. THIS. UP.
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way possible. I was fully obsessed from start to finish and could not put it down. The romance was addictive, swoony, tender, and emotionally consuming in a way that lingers long after the final page. I loved these characters so much it genuinely hurt.
First of all, THE VILLAIN. I hated her with my entire soul. Every time she appeared I wanted to throw my Kindle. Truly top tier rage inducing, which only made the emotional payoff that much more satisfying. I was deeply invested.
And the romance??? UGH. Perfection. Soft but intense. Protective. Devoted. The kind of love that feels both safe and all consuming. Watching these two fall into each other felt natural and inevitable, and I adored every moment they shared. The chemistry was undeniable, the emotional connection ran deep, and I was kicking my feet the entire time.
What truly elevated this story for me was the emotional depth. The stakes felt incredibly high. Maia’s journey especially as she confronts long standing wounds tied to her relationship with her mother and her sense of self, this was raw, vulnerable, and heartbreaking. I cried real tears. Watching her work through that pain while learning what it means to be fully seen and loved was so powerful.
The ending absolutely shattered me in the best way. I was emotional, overwhelmed, and completely satisfied. This book delivered everything: angst, swoon, healing, rage, love, and catharsis.
I loved this. I devoured it. I am obsessed. Thank you Valentine PR for the gifted ARC.
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way possible. I was fully obsessed from start to finish and could not put it down. The romance was addictive, swoony, tender, and emotionally consuming in a way that lingers long after the final page. I loved these characters so much it genuinely hurt.
First of all, THE VILLAIN. I hated her with my entire soul. Every time she appeared I wanted to throw my Kindle. Truly top tier rage inducing, which only made the emotional payoff that much more satisfying. I was deeply invested.
And the romance??? UGH. Perfection. Soft but intense. Protective. Devoted. The kind of love that feels both safe and all consuming. Watching these two fall into each other felt natural and inevitable, and I adored every moment they shared. The chemistry was undeniable, the emotional connection ran deep, and I was kicking my feet the entire time.
What truly elevated this story for me was the emotional depth. The stakes felt incredibly high. Maia’s journey especially as she confronts long standing wounds tied to her relationship with her mother and her sense of self, this was raw, vulnerable, and heartbreaking. I cried real tears. Watching her work through that pain while learning what it means to be fully seen and loved was so powerful.
The ending absolutely shattered me in the best way. I was emotional, overwhelmed, and completely satisfied. This book delivered everything: angst, swoon, healing, rage, love, and catharsis.
I loved this. I devoured it. I am obsessed. Thank you Valentine PR for the gifted ARC.
Read
January 15, 2026
Maia + Baird
The third book in the Dublin Street Second Generation series!
Baird is a football (soccer) goalkeeper and a super flirt.
But he's been in love with his buddy's girl's cousin ever since he met her.
Maia. She's four years older than Baird's 26 years. She works her dream job as a fashion something in a department store.
But now that she dumped her fiancé that job is in danger, because she was supposed to be the face of the new social media wedding campaign - with her ex.
Enter Baird. Pretending to be in love is the perfect way to get Maia to fall in love with him too. Right?
══════════════════
Adorable.
We've been waiting for Baird's story for decades! And now he's here. And he's just as amazing as we knew he would be. He's such a flirty fun guy! But he has to grow up now. His team's new boss is not happy with him, so playing Maia's fiancé is not only helping her but him too. In more than one way obviously. He's hoping that she'll fall in love with him too. She's always seen him as this super flirty serial dater. But he'll prove her wrong.
So adorable! So many funny and sweet and cute moments. But we also get some sad and heartbreaking moments. Both (especially Maia) didn't have the easiest life and the past and other bad people might come calling ...
I loved reading this so much.
Amazing cast of people - loved all the friends and family! (Hated that one person at work!)
Can't wait for whatever's coming next!
HART STREET LANE was another great book in this new On Dublin Street Second Generation Series!
Sweet and flirty and funny and adorable and a bit heartbreaking and just beautiful!
Run to your nearest bookdealer for your own Baird - this one is soo MINE!
If you can't click the buy-links
from your phone - click ► HERE!
💜
💜
January 27, 2026
I was excited to get this book with the thought that it was a romantic suspense like her Adair Family series. My fault for not doing my full research on this one! It did fall a little flat for me. I gave it a solid 3 stars. I struggled with feeling the chemistry between Maia and Baird. I also struggled with the back and forth of Maia's feelings for him. I understand that she was hurt and that she was hesitant to open up again, but it went on a little long for me. The tension build up was nice though. I mean we didn't get any spicy scenes until like 70% into the book. I did appreciate Baird being a man down bad and how he was willing to lay it all out for Maia to make the decision on if anything was going to happen between them. I think I just wanted a little more in this one. I thought that Maia's ex was going to come back into play but after some fussing he just disappeared.
Maia has found herself in a bit of a predicament. Her fiance has dumped her, and her nemesis at work has signed her up to be a part of the wedding campaign at work. All that to say, she needs a new fiance and fast. Which is where her friend Baird comes in. Baird who she thinks is handsome but is known as a player of sorts. After a conversation, he agrees to play fake with her if it will help her job because he also needs his image in the public to shift. So now she is engaged to one of her best friends. And finds herself more aware of him in every way. She gets why people are attracted to him. She finds herself thinking about him more and being upset when some of his old ways kick in. After debating canceling this whole thing, Baird reveals that he wants this to be real. He wants a shot at making them something that isn't fake. Maia is shocked. Could this be her chance to try again? She is realizing that her relationship with her old fiance was different from Baird. She is more open and honest. She wants things she didn't want before. And so she says yes. She wants this to be real too. She just hopes he can commit to one person like he says he can. She hopes he doesn't break her heart.
Baird is in trouble with his team. The owner thinks he is a bad rep, and Baird is determined to prove him wrong. So when his best friend, Maia, asks him to marry her. He immediately says yes. Of course for his image but also he has been crushing on Maia for years. To learn that she is newly single and needs help- Baird sees this as his chance to make her his. To prove to her that he can be everything she needs. The problem from the jump is that he is a flirt. Not with intention behind it but to flirt is fun. Until he realizes it hurts Maia. He is going to have to shift to accommodate her which he is happy to do. When things come to a bit of a head, and Maia suggests they cancel everything Baird snaps. He tells her how he feels truly. How he has felt for a while. That he wants this to be real. That he wants HER. He gives her space to process and to his utter delight she comes back with a YES. She wants to make this real too. Now he just hopes he can live up to her expectations and make her the happiest woman possible.
I am hesitant to continue this series after this one. It was good and entertaining but not great. I appreciate Samantha's romantic suspense better. But I want to thank Valentine PR and Samantha for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Maia has found herself in a bit of a predicament. Her fiance has dumped her, and her nemesis at work has signed her up to be a part of the wedding campaign at work. All that to say, she needs a new fiance and fast. Which is where her friend Baird comes in. Baird who she thinks is handsome but is known as a player of sorts. After a conversation, he agrees to play fake with her if it will help her job because he also needs his image in the public to shift. So now she is engaged to one of her best friends. And finds herself more aware of him in every way. She gets why people are attracted to him. She finds herself thinking about him more and being upset when some of his old ways kick in. After debating canceling this whole thing, Baird reveals that he wants this to be real. He wants a shot at making them something that isn't fake. Maia is shocked. Could this be her chance to try again? She is realizing that her relationship with her old fiance was different from Baird. She is more open and honest. She wants things she didn't want before. And so she says yes. She wants this to be real too. She just hopes he can commit to one person like he says he can. She hopes he doesn't break her heart.
Baird is in trouble with his team. The owner thinks he is a bad rep, and Baird is determined to prove him wrong. So when his best friend, Maia, asks him to marry her. He immediately says yes. Of course for his image but also he has been crushing on Maia for years. To learn that she is newly single and needs help- Baird sees this as his chance to make her his. To prove to her that he can be everything she needs. The problem from the jump is that he is a flirt. Not with intention behind it but to flirt is fun. Until he realizes it hurts Maia. He is going to have to shift to accommodate her which he is happy to do. When things come to a bit of a head, and Maia suggests they cancel everything Baird snaps. He tells her how he feels truly. How he has felt for a while. That he wants this to be real. That he wants HER. He gives her space to process and to his utter delight she comes back with a YES. She wants to make this real too. Now he just hopes he can live up to her expectations and make her the happiest woman possible.
I am hesitant to continue this series after this one. It was good and entertaining but not great. I appreciate Samantha's romantic suspense better. But I want to thank Valentine PR and Samantha for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
January 16, 2026
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Maia MacLeod lives in Scotland where she is the senior fashion buyer at Pennington's department store in Edinburgh. Her professional and personal life finally seem to be in sync. She loves her job, and is engaged to be married to her boyfriend of three years. Then everything begins to fall apart, and her future is uncertain. While dealing with a sudden break up, she also is at risk of losong everything she's worked so hard for in her career. She is set to star in her company's new bridal campaign, but now there isn't a groom. She needs a solution and fast. Then her best friend Baird comes to the rescue. Now she has a fake fiance, and she's working overtime to keep up with the lies. Including the one she tries to tell herself that she's not attracted to Baird, when he's easily the most beautiful man she's ever laid eyes on. He's just as beautiful on the inside too. He's loyal, protective, and cares deeply for his friends and family. The more time she spends with him, the more she realizes she can be herself when they are together. As real feelings grow, fake starts to feel very real.
Baird McMillan is known as the fun, flirty professional footballer for Edinburgh's top team in the league. The Caledonia United goalkeeper has been spiraling and acting out since his injury, and needs to clean up his reputation. He's known as the life of the party, but there's more to him than that. He's been crazy about his best friend Maia from the moment he met her, and believed she was the one for him. When an opportunity falls in his lap to get closer to her he takes it. It involves a fake engagement, and will give him time to win her over. While fixing his image, and helping Maia, he hopes to convince her to give him a real chance, and believes she's worth the risk of possibly getting his heart broken.
Hart Street Lane (Return to Dublin Street Book 3) by Samantha Young is a slow burn, forced proximity, fake engagement, marriage of convenience, friends to lovers, sports romance full of emotion, drama, undeniable chemistry and all the swoon. I've wanted more of Baird since we met him in book one as Callan's best friend and teammate, and he didn't disappoint. I really enjoyed this story about trust, friendship and beauiful love. <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F1V6X7TF?...
(ARC provided by author)
Maia MacLeod lives in Scotland where she is the senior fashion buyer at Pennington's department store in Edinburgh. Her professional and personal life finally seem to be in sync. She loves her job, and is engaged to be married to her boyfriend of three years. Then everything begins to fall apart, and her future is uncertain. While dealing with a sudden break up, she also is at risk of losong everything she's worked so hard for in her career. She is set to star in her company's new bridal campaign, but now there isn't a groom. She needs a solution and fast. Then her best friend Baird comes to the rescue. Now she has a fake fiance, and she's working overtime to keep up with the lies. Including the one she tries to tell herself that she's not attracted to Baird, when he's easily the most beautiful man she's ever laid eyes on. He's just as beautiful on the inside too. He's loyal, protective, and cares deeply for his friends and family. The more time she spends with him, the more she realizes she can be herself when they are together. As real feelings grow, fake starts to feel very real.
Baird McMillan is known as the fun, flirty professional footballer for Edinburgh's top team in the league. The Caledonia United goalkeeper has been spiraling and acting out since his injury, and needs to clean up his reputation. He's known as the life of the party, but there's more to him than that. He's been crazy about his best friend Maia from the moment he met her, and believed she was the one for him. When an opportunity falls in his lap to get closer to her he takes it. It involves a fake engagement, and will give him time to win her over. While fixing his image, and helping Maia, he hopes to convince her to give him a real chance, and believes she's worth the risk of possibly getting his heart broken.
Hart Street Lane (Return to Dublin Street Book 3) by Samantha Young is a slow burn, forced proximity, fake engagement, marriage of convenience, friends to lovers, sports romance full of emotion, drama, undeniable chemistry and all the swoon. I've wanted more of Baird since we met him in book one as Callan's best friend and teammate, and he didn't disappoint. I really enjoyed this story about trust, friendship and beauiful love. <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F1V6X7TF?...
January 28, 2026
3.5 rounded down to 3 stars
This is a solid Samantha Young read. This stars one of my favorite secondary characters from the On Dublin Street series, Maia. Maia was first introduced to us at 15 years old in Moonlight on Nightingale Way. In it she finds her biological father and is able to get away from her drug addict bio mom.
In this book she is 30 years old and engaged to a pretty unlikeable guy. One of her coworkers who has a vendetta against her manages to get Maia tangled in a promotion with their fashion company, and thus has her wedding be part of a huge commercial production. However, her engagement breaks off. She strikes a deal with her best guy friend, Baird, who is a 26 yo professional soccer player, to get engaged and actually married so she doesn't get fired or demoted from her job.
The chemistry between Maia and Baird is really sweet. I was totally enthralled for the first quarter of the book. And then I kept getting distracted. It took me a full week to finish this book, that RARELY happens. Granted, I don't know if it is due to my headspace or if it is due to the book. I enjoyed it, not as much as some of her earlier books, and I will say that I didn't enjoy how they kept hinting that Maia is old at the age of 30...ahem...
But I did like how they realistically showed how a woman with Maia's past would view love and her complicated thoughts on whether she deserved it or not. There was a bit of a 3rd act breakup that I think did not need to happen. It didn't bring anything to the story, though it was realistic to how a woman with Maia's background would react. But ALL of Samantha Young's books have a 3rd act breakup, and I mostly don't mind them--but this one simply wasn't needed. I feel like Maia could have reacted the way she did but Baird could have reacted somewhat differently so that 3rd act break up wouldn't have fully occurred.
But all in all, if you like the In Dublin Street series, I would recommend this book. But I would not have this (or any book in her 2nd generation series) be your first Samantha Young book. For that I would go back to the orginal In Dublin Street series (nearly all but one was 4-5 star reads for me).
2026 Bing0-FMC works in the fashion industry
This is a solid Samantha Young read. This stars one of my favorite secondary characters from the On Dublin Street series, Maia. Maia was first introduced to us at 15 years old in Moonlight on Nightingale Way. In it she finds her biological father and is able to get away from her drug addict bio mom.
In this book she is 30 years old and engaged to a pretty unlikeable guy. One of her coworkers who has a vendetta against her manages to get Maia tangled in a promotion with their fashion company, and thus has her wedding be part of a huge commercial production. However, her engagement breaks off. She strikes a deal with her best guy friend, Baird, who is a 26 yo professional soccer player, to get engaged and actually married so she doesn't get fired or demoted from her job.
The chemistry between Maia and Baird is really sweet. I was totally enthralled for the first quarter of the book. And then I kept getting distracted. It took me a full week to finish this book, that RARELY happens. Granted, I don't know if it is due to my headspace or if it is due to the book. I enjoyed it, not as much as some of her earlier books, and I will say that I didn't enjoy how they kept hinting that Maia is old at the age of 30...ahem...
But I did like how they realistically showed how a woman with Maia's past would view love and her complicated thoughts on whether she deserved it or not. There was a bit of a 3rd act breakup that I think did not need to happen. It didn't bring anything to the story, though it was realistic to how a woman with Maia's background would react. But ALL of Samantha Young's books have a 3rd act breakup, and I mostly don't mind them--but this one simply wasn't needed. I feel like Maia could have reacted the way she did but Baird could have reacted somewhat differently so that 3rd act break up wouldn't have fully occurred.
But all in all, if you like the In Dublin Street series, I would recommend this book. But I would not have this (or any book in her 2nd generation series) be your first Samantha Young book. For that I would go back to the orginal In Dublin Street series (nearly all but one was 4-5 star reads for me).
2026 Bing0-FMC works in the fashion industry
January 15, 2026
Hart Street Lane by Samantha Young was a read that quickly found its way into my heart thanks to the emotion it carries. And even though it stole many tears from me, it also brought plenty of smiles, thanks to its sweet and humorous moments.
🛍️ “I know. But even knowing something doesn’t mean you can rationalize it quite that easily.”
The contrast between the prologue and the first chapter? Brilliant. If I read the prologue with tears in my eyes, yet irritated by Will’s impertinence, the first chapter brought me immense satisfaction. My first thought was that Maia needed someone completely obsessed with her after Will played with her insecurities — even if, at first, Baird doesn’t necessarily seem like a safe choice either.
🛍️ “She’s warm and sweet and she can be silly with you. You make her feel safe to be herself. And that’s amazing.”
Life has shaped Maia into a people pleaser and someone who wears an armor in order to be accepted. She carries insecurities, something that initially shows in her relationship with Baird. Both characters have emotional baggage and work to do in order to find balance.
🛍️ “Everything about this woman was right. The taste, the feel, the smell. She was my match. The missing fu*king piece.”
I truly loved the emotional weight of the story, rooted in the complexity of the characters. They aren’t perfect, they make mistakes, but they try to learn from them and to communicate. Sometimes they say things that hurt, often born out of fear — the fear of being vulnerable and getting hurt, the fear of losing control. There were moments when Maia upset me, then others when it was Baird’s turn, but I understood them and empathized with both of them.
🛍️ “He was mad at me, but he saw me struggling and did something to help.”
It’s always a pleasure to read books by Samantha Young. The atmosphere was different from that of my recent reads by the author, but I enjoyed this story even more!
● ● ● ● ◐
Happy release day, @authorhollyrenee! Thanks @valentine_pr_ for the ARC of this book!
🛍️ “I know. But even knowing something doesn’t mean you can rationalize it quite that easily.”
The contrast between the prologue and the first chapter? Brilliant. If I read the prologue with tears in my eyes, yet irritated by Will’s impertinence, the first chapter brought me immense satisfaction. My first thought was that Maia needed someone completely obsessed with her after Will played with her insecurities — even if, at first, Baird doesn’t necessarily seem like a safe choice either.
🛍️ “She’s warm and sweet and she can be silly with you. You make her feel safe to be herself. And that’s amazing.”
Life has shaped Maia into a people pleaser and someone who wears an armor in order to be accepted. She carries insecurities, something that initially shows in her relationship with Baird. Both characters have emotional baggage and work to do in order to find balance.
🛍️ “Everything about this woman was right. The taste, the feel, the smell. She was my match. The missing fu*king piece.”
I truly loved the emotional weight of the story, rooted in the complexity of the characters. They aren’t perfect, they make mistakes, but they try to learn from them and to communicate. Sometimes they say things that hurt, often born out of fear — the fear of being vulnerable and getting hurt, the fear of losing control. There were moments when Maia upset me, then others when it was Baird’s turn, but I understood them and empathized with both of them.
🛍️ “He was mad at me, but he saw me struggling and did something to help.”
It’s always a pleasure to read books by Samantha Young. The atmosphere was different from that of my recent reads by the author, but I enjoyed this story even more!
● ● ● ● ◐
Happy release day, @authorhollyrenee! Thanks @valentine_pr_ for the ARC of this book!
January 16, 2026
#Review: *Hart Street Lane* - Samantha Young - ARC [18+]
5/5✨
3/5🌶️
Maya thought that she had a normal, pretty happy relationship with her boyfriend, Will. Even if she was sure that she will get married to him soon, he dropped some incredible news which destabilized everything in her life. On top of that, she was in a tough situation because one of her jealous, vindictive co-worker, who practically forced her into participating in a marketing campaign for her job, which supposed to include her fiancé, but with whom she was no longer with. How will she solve this complicated situation?
Baird McMillan was the flirtiest man ever! He and Maya had a cute friendship and he jumped right in to help Maya with her problem. This way he could resolve his own problems too. But what happens when everything wasn't as fake as they thought?
I got soooo attached to this book!! I literally couldn't stop from reading! I adooored how goofy Baird was and how sweet and protective of Maya he was. Our boy was hit hard by everything Maya meant, being insanely lost for her. I just loved how complex this story was, with every detail from their personal lives and the ones which came with that crazy fake dating thing. It was sooo much fun to follow, but also it had so much emotion too. Simply perfect!
After discovering Samantha's books last year, I can say that I'm definitely a huge fan of her stories. This one was just perfect for me, adoring these characters and all the mixed up emotions this story offered me.
So grateful for being accepted for this e-ARC, for which I must thank Valentine Pr and Samantha.🤗
✨Tropes
▫️Fake Dating
▫️Friends To Lovers
▫️Golden Retriever
▫️Boy Obsessed
▫️Reversed Age Gap (30/26)
▫️He Falls First & Harder
▫️Reformed Playboy
▫️Banter
▫️Football Player
▫️Sports Romance
5/5✨
3/5🌶️
Maya thought that she had a normal, pretty happy relationship with her boyfriend, Will. Even if she was sure that she will get married to him soon, he dropped some incredible news which destabilized everything in her life. On top of that, she was in a tough situation because one of her jealous, vindictive co-worker, who practically forced her into participating in a marketing campaign for her job, which supposed to include her fiancé, but with whom she was no longer with. How will she solve this complicated situation?
Baird McMillan was the flirtiest man ever! He and Maya had a cute friendship and he jumped right in to help Maya with her problem. This way he could resolve his own problems too. But what happens when everything wasn't as fake as they thought?
I got soooo attached to this book!! I literally couldn't stop from reading! I adooored how goofy Baird was and how sweet and protective of Maya he was. Our boy was hit hard by everything Maya meant, being insanely lost for her. I just loved how complex this story was, with every detail from their personal lives and the ones which came with that crazy fake dating thing. It was sooo much fun to follow, but also it had so much emotion too. Simply perfect!
After discovering Samantha's books last year, I can say that I'm definitely a huge fan of her stories. This one was just perfect for me, adoring these characters and all the mixed up emotions this story offered me.
So grateful for being accepted for this e-ARC, for which I must thank Valentine Pr and Samantha.🤗
✨Tropes
▫️Fake Dating
▫️Friends To Lovers
▫️Golden Retriever
▫️Boy Obsessed
▫️Reversed Age Gap (30/26)
▫️He Falls First & Harder
▫️Reformed Playboy
▫️Banter
▫️Football Player
▫️Sports Romance
Review of advance copy received from Autorin bzw. Autor
Review about ARC provided by the author
Loved every single page
This is so good and I'm so happy for Bairds and Maias story.
The story is well written and even non native English readers will enjoy and understand the story.
First let me tell you that I'm invested in Maias story since Moonlight on Nightingale Way (Book 6 from the Original On Dublin Street series). I was curious for more from her after all that happens there and sincerely because of Logan.
And about Baird (Bear), I loved him from his first appearance and interaction in On Loverose Lane (Book 1 of Return to Dublin Street series) with Callan and Beth. And I was curious to get more information about him after all.
Baird and Maia went through a roller-coaster of emotions, highs and lows but always recognizing their friendship and importance to each other.
I was happy that Maias inner demons were put on the page in a sincere, important, open and significant way. There are some points mentioned with all the sensitivity needed that might be helpful to other people to acknowledge and understand in a deeper level while reading. I was heartbroken but on the same time I could heal with Maia. I think this topic is often turned under the bridge but here it is put on the table in such a good described way without whitening it.
There's always a psychological aspect included in Samantha Youngs novels and this makes them more special to me.
I could see an evolution on Maia and Baird individually and together throughout the book that is realistic and relatable.
I liked their interaction, the banter and flirt because honestly Baird can do this like no other.
There are some hot scenes too, but it is more of a slow burn with the right amount of spice and heat.
conclusion
I loved everything in this book and it become my favorite in this series. This is a friends to lovers book with all the emotions from high to low to love spiced with friendship and clearly all the heat between two people who liked each other.
info:
This is the 3rd book in the Return to Dublin Street series that could be read as a standalone but is interconnected with the previous books on the series.
book 1: Once Loverose Lane (Beth & Callan)
book 2: A Royal Mile (Lily & Sebastian)
book 3: Hart Street Lane (Maia & Baird)
If you want to read Maias parents (Logan & Grace) story from the Original On Dublin Street series, it's book 6; Moonlight on Nightingale Way. You'll love this too.
Loved every single page
This is so good and I'm so happy for Bairds and Maias story.
The story is well written and even non native English readers will enjoy and understand the story.
First let me tell you that I'm invested in Maias story since Moonlight on Nightingale Way (Book 6 from the Original On Dublin Street series). I was curious for more from her after all that happens there and sincerely because of Logan.
And about Baird (Bear), I loved him from his first appearance and interaction in On Loverose Lane (Book 1 of Return to Dublin Street series) with Callan and Beth. And I was curious to get more information about him after all.
Baird and Maia went through a roller-coaster of emotions, highs and lows but always recognizing their friendship and importance to each other.
I was happy that Maias inner demons were put on the page in a sincere, important, open and significant way. There are some points mentioned with all the sensitivity needed that might be helpful to other people to acknowledge and understand in a deeper level while reading. I was heartbroken but on the same time I could heal with Maia. I think this topic is often turned under the bridge but here it is put on the table in such a good described way without whitening it.
There's always a psychological aspect included in Samantha Youngs novels and this makes them more special to me.
I could see an evolution on Maia and Baird individually and together throughout the book that is realistic and relatable.
I liked their interaction, the banter and flirt because honestly Baird can do this like no other.
There are some hot scenes too, but it is more of a slow burn with the right amount of spice and heat.
conclusion
I loved everything in this book and it become my favorite in this series. This is a friends to lovers book with all the emotions from high to low to love spiced with friendship and clearly all the heat between two people who liked each other.
info:
This is the 3rd book in the Return to Dublin Street series that could be read as a standalone but is interconnected with the previous books on the series.
book 1: Once Loverose Lane (Beth & Callan)
book 2: A Royal Mile (Lily & Sebastian)
book 3: Hart Street Lane (Maia & Baird)
If you want to read Maias parents (Logan & Grace) story from the Original On Dublin Street series, it's book 6; Moonlight on Nightingale Way. You'll love this too.
January 18, 2026
dnf @50%.
not wasting my time on this
not wasting my time on this
February 16, 2026
i'm absolutely feral for anything this woman writes
February 7, 2026
Baird and Maia's romance was a long-awaited one. From the first time these two met, they became best friends. Or this was what she thought up until later in this story. Baird actually fell in love with her at first sight. But he knew she had a fiancé and wasn't ready to admit his feelings. He was literally biding his time, until an opportunity arose. When Maia's fiancé suddenly leaves her for another woman, she is pressured at work by an envious colleague who wants to present them as an engaged and a happy couple. But this is where Baird comes up. He needs to clear his image and what better opportunity than being in a fake relationship with Maia. This was their time to finally fall in love.
Through the story, we find out that Maia had always been attracted to Baird, but seeing him flirting all the time with different women every night stopped her from doing anything about it. But now, when she has to be with him all the time, her old feelings are coming to the surface.
Baird is a man on a mission. He is so deeply in love with her and is determined to show her that they are perfect for each other. It is not long until they submit to the attraction and finally get together. When this happens, the chemistry between them is literally explosive. Everything is so passionate and spicy. I loved all of their love scenes. With him, she was able to explore her sexuality, and he was more than happy to show it to her 🥵.
Overall, I loved reading Baird and Maia's love story and I can't wait for the other books in the series ♥️.
I received an Arc from the author and my review is given voluntarily.
Through the story, we find out that Maia had always been attracted to Baird, but seeing him flirting all the time with different women every night stopped her from doing anything about it. But now, when she has to be with him all the time, her old feelings are coming to the surface.
Baird is a man on a mission. He is so deeply in love with her and is determined to show her that they are perfect for each other. It is not long until they submit to the attraction and finally get together. When this happens, the chemistry between them is literally explosive. Everything is so passionate and spicy. I loved all of their love scenes. With him, she was able to explore her sexuality, and he was more than happy to show it to her 🥵.
Overall, I loved reading Baird and Maia's love story and I can't wait for the other books in the series ♥️.
I received an Arc from the author and my review is given voluntarily.
January 17, 2026
From the moment Baird appeared as a side character, it was clear he had main character energy. And he did NOT disappoint! Hart Street Lane delivers a deeply engaging fake relationship romance that is equal parts swoony, emotional, and unexpectedly tender. Samantha Young takes a beloved supporting character and gives him such a charming story. And friends to lovers? Gasp. Samantha is a truly the best at it. The vibes are on on point.
Baird and Maia’s relationship is rooted in a genuine friendship, which gives the romance its strongest foundation and makes their connection already feel so intense and meaningful. Baird has been quietly in love with Maia since the day they met, content to stay in her orbit while she was in another relationship. When that relationship implodes and Maia’s career suddenly depends on presenting a perfect engagement, Baird steps in with a fake fiancé arrangement that quickly begins to blur into something real. The progression from friendship to fake engagement to authentic love unfolds naturally, driven by trust, shared history, and undeniable chemistry.
Baird is a dreamy hero with many layers. Beneath his flirty, carefree reputation is a man carrying the weight of a traumatic head injury and the fear that followed it. Watching him open up, take responsibility for his past behavior, and prove that his feelings for Maia are serious is so satisfying and sweet. His devotion is steady and intentional, and the way he shows up for her again and again makes him impossible not to love. SWOOOOOON.
Maia’s character arc is just as compelling. She is navigating the fallout of an unhealthy relationship while confronting long standing wounds tied to her mother and her sense of self worth. Her growth is handled with care and emotional honesty, particularly in a powerful late scene that offers both confrontation and healing. It was magic to witness her reclaim her confidence and learn what she deserves, and it makes her connection and romance with Baird feel even more meaningful.
The fake engagement trope is used to great effect to help catalyze that "aha", especially with the added pressure of public scrutiny and constant proximity. It heightens both the tension and the intimacy, allowing their chemistry to build slowly before tipping into something undeniable. The emotional connection is as strong as the physical one, and their relationship feels safe, supportive, and deeply affectionate. It felt really real and substantial.
The romance is so sweet, but I also just loved the bigger emotional themes of this story too. Alongside the romance, the book explores recovery, self doubt, family trauma, and the fear of vulnerability. It feels like true character journeys enhanced by the romance, not defined by it. And I loved that.
Hart Street Lane is a heartfelt, addictive romance filled with longing, healing, and genuine connection. This story is wonderfully tender, emotionally rich, and immensely satisfying, another great read in this charming series full or heartwarming love and characters worth rooting for.
💙Friends to Lovers
💙Slight Reverse Age Gap (4 years)
💙 Fake Dating/Engagement/Marriage
💙 He Falls First & Harder
💙Boy Obsessed
💙Second Gen
💙Golden Retriever Hero
💙Scottish Soccer Player
💙Traumatic Past
💙 Reformed Playboy
💙Slow burn
Baird and Maia’s relationship is rooted in a genuine friendship, which gives the romance its strongest foundation and makes their connection already feel so intense and meaningful. Baird has been quietly in love with Maia since the day they met, content to stay in her orbit while she was in another relationship. When that relationship implodes and Maia’s career suddenly depends on presenting a perfect engagement, Baird steps in with a fake fiancé arrangement that quickly begins to blur into something real. The progression from friendship to fake engagement to authentic love unfolds naturally, driven by trust, shared history, and undeniable chemistry.
Baird is a dreamy hero with many layers. Beneath his flirty, carefree reputation is a man carrying the weight of a traumatic head injury and the fear that followed it. Watching him open up, take responsibility for his past behavior, and prove that his feelings for Maia are serious is so satisfying and sweet. His devotion is steady and intentional, and the way he shows up for her again and again makes him impossible not to love. SWOOOOOON.
Maia’s character arc is just as compelling. She is navigating the fallout of an unhealthy relationship while confronting long standing wounds tied to her mother and her sense of self worth. Her growth is handled with care and emotional honesty, particularly in a powerful late scene that offers both confrontation and healing. It was magic to witness her reclaim her confidence and learn what she deserves, and it makes her connection and romance with Baird feel even more meaningful.
The fake engagement trope is used to great effect to help catalyze that "aha", especially with the added pressure of public scrutiny and constant proximity. It heightens both the tension and the intimacy, allowing their chemistry to build slowly before tipping into something undeniable. The emotional connection is as strong as the physical one, and their relationship feels safe, supportive, and deeply affectionate. It felt really real and substantial.
The romance is so sweet, but I also just loved the bigger emotional themes of this story too. Alongside the romance, the book explores recovery, self doubt, family trauma, and the fear of vulnerability. It feels like true character journeys enhanced by the romance, not defined by it. And I loved that.
Hart Street Lane is a heartfelt, addictive romance filled with longing, healing, and genuine connection. This story is wonderfully tender, emotionally rich, and immensely satisfying, another great read in this charming series full or heartwarming love and characters worth rooting for.
💙Friends to Lovers
💙Slight Reverse Age Gap (4 years)
💙 Fake Dating/Engagement/Marriage
💙 He Falls First & Harder
💙Boy Obsessed
💙Second Gen
💙Golden Retriever Hero
💙Scottish Soccer Player
💙Traumatic Past
💙 Reformed Playboy
💙Slow burn
January 16, 2026
I was provided an ARC of this book via the author, all opinions are my own.
This is the third book in the Return to Dublin Street series, but you can read it as a standalone as all of the couples are interconnected but their stories are independent. We first met Baird and Maia in On Loverose Lane, but they were in different places in their lives. Maia was engaged at the time, but Baird knew there was something between them and was determined to get to know her. Fast forward to the future, Maia is in a pickle when her engagement is suddenly broken and she needs a fiancé fast or her job may b on the line. Fortunately for her Baird has been in love with her from day one, and just needs to convince her that his player days are in the past and he only has eyes for her.
Maia is a buyer for a posh department store in Scotland, and their marketing department has cooked up a campain to sponsor a wedding from engagement through honeymoon. The catch is that Maia is the bride to be and she and her fiance have just ended things. Baird has been acting out doing more and more reckless things since his concussion 2 years ago trying to prove that he is invincible as well as the best goalie in the league. The campaign is good for both of them for different reasons, and the best friends might just end up in love at the end of it all. Unfortunately, Maia has alot of baggage when it comes to love, trust, and relationships, which is understandable given her past. Things from her past are brought to light in the campaign that she would rather stay in the past and it threatens the life she's built and the relationship she's building with Baird.
I'm so glad Baird finally got his own book! I loved him as much as other fans of the series did when we first met him as Callan's sidekick in the first book in the series. He was such a fun character that deserved his own story and his own happy ending. Much like the other books in the series this does deal with some heavy and serious topics so make sure you take care of yourself first if you have triggers. Trigger warnings for (not inclusive) . I appreciated that they both had some things to deal with and were patient and kind with each other. I also appreciated that Maia had a great support group in place and were willing to tell her sternly but kindly that she needed to talk to someone about her trauma and that she was being unfair to Baird.
There was a good bit of growth from their characters as they supported each other through good and bad, and they worked through their problems.
This is the third book in the Return to Dublin Street series, but you can read it as a standalone as all of the couples are interconnected but their stories are independent. We first met Baird and Maia in On Loverose Lane, but they were in different places in their lives. Maia was engaged at the time, but Baird knew there was something between them and was determined to get to know her. Fast forward to the future, Maia is in a pickle when her engagement is suddenly broken and she needs a fiancé fast or her job may b on the line. Fortunately for her Baird has been in love with her from day one, and just needs to convince her that his player days are in the past and he only has eyes for her.
Maia is a buyer for a posh department store in Scotland, and their marketing department has cooked up a campain to sponsor a wedding from engagement through honeymoon. The catch is that Maia is the bride to be and she and her fiance have just ended things. Baird has been acting out doing more and more reckless things since his concussion 2 years ago trying to prove that he is invincible as well as the best goalie in the league. The campaign is good for both of them for different reasons, and the best friends might just end up in love at the end of it all. Unfortunately, Maia has alot of baggage when it comes to love, trust, and relationships, which is understandable given her past. Things from her past are brought to light in the campaign that she would rather stay in the past and it threatens the life she's built and the relationship she's building with Baird.
I'm so glad Baird finally got his own book! I loved him as much as other fans of the series did when we first met him as Callan's sidekick in the first book in the series. He was such a fun character that deserved his own story and his own happy ending. Much like the other books in the series this does deal with some heavy and serious topics so make sure you take care of yourself first if you have triggers. Trigger warnings for (not inclusive) . I appreciated that they both had some things to deal with and were patient and kind with each other. I also appreciated that Maia had a great support group in place and were willing to tell her sternly but kindly that she needed to talk to someone about her trauma and that she was being unfair to Baird.
There was a good bit of growth from their characters as they supported each other through good and bad, and they worked through their problems.
January 13, 2026
You know when you meet a side character and you just FEEL that "main character energy"? That is what I felt when I first met Baird, professional goalkeeper and professional flirt. He's been friends with Maia since the moment he met her and flirts with her relentlessly. She's taken, but not married. So that leaves wiggle room, right? Because if anyone is down bad, it's Baird. When Maia's relationship turns its ugly head (and her ex is a darn douche) and her work has her set up to follow her engagement, Baird steps up to the plate and they engage in a fake engagement that will turn into a fake marriage that could benefit both of them. But you know how fake relationships turn out.
One of my favorite tropes is a fake relationship. I love seeing the characters fall for one another through their fake acts of dating and how typically one character has always had feelings for the other, but can't let it be known for fear of getting hurt. And that's our man Baird. He fell for Maia the minute he met her and this is his way of making her realize he can be the man that she wants. And seeing Baird in that way made me I fall in love with him, first as a side as a side character, then as our big Bear of a man that compliments our FMC so well. Seeing him turn his flirtatious ways towards the woman who has always held his heart. Even if it did start out as fake. He had to grow and change his flirty ways in order to be taken seriously in this new relationship. After setting up the fake relationship, it was all about Maia and Baird finding balance with each other. They played off each other so well and found comfort in one another, while also finding their happy place. They have undeniable chemistry, even in their friendship and I think that's what shined the most. Their love, support and understanding of one another is fierce and strong and just continues to grow, even if it started out fake.
Combining some wonderfully steamy moments along with their undeniable chemistry and heartfelt moments, these two also deal with a lot of outside forces and things that pop up from their pasts. But it's all about their wonderful friendship, communication and their family and friends that keep them solid.
Samantha Young knows how to reel us in with two great main characters and a slew of amazing supporting characters that help push My and Bear's story forward in Hart Street Lane. I love all the family vibes and the way everyone comes out to support one another. There may be problems, but at the core of everything is trust and love with Young's series. I couldn't have asked for a better story to start off my 2026 reads.
If you like:
Sports romance that is a spin off of a beloved series
slight age gap of an older woman and younger man
fake engagement
Friends to lovers
He falls first (with major "if he wanted to, he would" vibes)
Then picking up Hart Street Lane is a no brainer!
One of my favorite tropes is a fake relationship. I love seeing the characters fall for one another through their fake acts of dating and how typically one character has always had feelings for the other, but can't let it be known for fear of getting hurt. And that's our man Baird. He fell for Maia the minute he met her and this is his way of making her realize he can be the man that she wants. And seeing Baird in that way made me I fall in love with him, first as a side as a side character, then as our big Bear of a man that compliments our FMC so well. Seeing him turn his flirtatious ways towards the woman who has always held his heart. Even if it did start out as fake. He had to grow and change his flirty ways in order to be taken seriously in this new relationship. After setting up the fake relationship, it was all about Maia and Baird finding balance with each other. They played off each other so well and found comfort in one another, while also finding their happy place. They have undeniable chemistry, even in their friendship and I think that's what shined the most. Their love, support and understanding of one another is fierce and strong and just continues to grow, even if it started out fake.
Combining some wonderfully steamy moments along with their undeniable chemistry and heartfelt moments, these two also deal with a lot of outside forces and things that pop up from their pasts. But it's all about their wonderful friendship, communication and their family and friends that keep them solid.
Samantha Young knows how to reel us in with two great main characters and a slew of amazing supporting characters that help push My and Bear's story forward in Hart Street Lane. I love all the family vibes and the way everyone comes out to support one another. There may be problems, but at the core of everything is trust and love with Young's series. I couldn't have asked for a better story to start off my 2026 reads.
If you like:
Sports romance that is a spin off of a beloved series
slight age gap of an older woman and younger man
fake engagement
Friends to lovers
He falls first (with major "if he wanted to, he would" vibes)
Then picking up Hart Street Lane is a no brainer!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and became so addicted I realised it was 4am and I was still reading! This is what Samantha Young does to me!
The story is about 26 year old professional footballer Baird who has secretly been in love with his 30 year old best female friend Maia for a year. Baird is recovering from a traumatic brain/head injury and is acting more recklessly than usual and it is putting his career at risk. So when Maia needs a fake fiancé to keep her job, Baird jumps at the chance to be there for her, show his work that he is a stable man and show Maia that he is the one for her.
I was so excited about this third book in the Return to Dublin Street series because I adored the MMC Baird in the previous two books.
This book is filled to the brim with emotional turmoil and backstory. On Maia's side she hasn't seen her drug addict Mum since she was 15 and she struggles to believe anyone could love her when her own Mum didn't. Then there is Baird who is grappling with his fear of mortality post head injury and struggling to do his job as a goalkeeper because of this. They both react in different ways, Maia closes off from people and Baird goes completely reckless with alcohol, drugs, adrenaline and...other exploits. This is where Samantha Young shines, the emotional aspects and the connection it causes between the leads as they work to help one another. There is also some other serious themes including workplace bullying and family issues which added some drama and depth to the story.
However, I felt the whole set up for the fake engagement was a bit ridiculous. Maia could have easily just told her job that she was no longer engaged! For me, that side of the story made me rather frustrated as it was so unlikely.
Maia is such an interesting character and although I did want to shake some sense into her, her growth was wonderful to see. She is a caring, hardworking and beautiful woman who has serious self esteem issues. I really liked getting to know her and thought she matched really well with Baird. Baird is more troubled than I expected and I understand why but I did miss some of his jokey ways. However he is such a rough around the edges gentleman and how he treated Maia was beautiful. Plus their chemistry was HOT and the smut was steamy because they had such a great connection. I adored this friends to lovers romance!
Samantha Young is such a fantastic romance author . I loved this book and am excited to see who the couple in the next book will be!
Please note that I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and became so addicted I realised it was 4am and I was still reading! This is what Samantha Young does to me!
The story is about 26 year old professional footballer Baird who has secretly been in love with his 30 year old best female friend Maia for a year. Baird is recovering from a traumatic brain/head injury and is acting more recklessly than usual and it is putting his career at risk. So when Maia needs a fake fiancé to keep her job, Baird jumps at the chance to be there for her, show his work that he is a stable man and show Maia that he is the one for her.
I was so excited about this third book in the Return to Dublin Street series because I adored the MMC Baird in the previous two books.
This book is filled to the brim with emotional turmoil and backstory. On Maia's side she hasn't seen her drug addict Mum since she was 15 and she struggles to believe anyone could love her when her own Mum didn't. Then there is Baird who is grappling with his fear of mortality post head injury and struggling to do his job as a goalkeeper because of this. They both react in different ways, Maia closes off from people and Baird goes completely reckless with alcohol, drugs, adrenaline and...other exploits. This is where Samantha Young shines, the emotional aspects and the connection it causes between the leads as they work to help one another. There is also some other serious themes including workplace bullying and family issues which added some drama and depth to the story.
However, I felt the whole set up for the fake engagement was a bit ridiculous. Maia could have easily just told her job that she was no longer engaged! For me, that side of the story made me rather frustrated as it was so unlikely.
Maia is such an interesting character and although I did want to shake some sense into her, her growth was wonderful to see. She is a caring, hardworking and beautiful woman who has serious self esteem issues. I really liked getting to know her and thought she matched really well with Baird. Baird is more troubled than I expected and I understand why but I did miss some of his jokey ways. However he is such a rough around the edges gentleman and how he treated Maia was beautiful. Plus their chemistry was HOT and the smut was steamy because they had such a great connection. I adored this friends to lovers romance!
Samantha Young is such a fantastic romance author . I loved this book and am excited to see who the couple in the next book will be!
Please note that I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy
***ARC Review***
Hart Street Lane (Return to Dublin Street #3) by Samantha Young
Release Date: 1/15/26
The moment I met Baird McMillan in On Loverose Lane (Book 1), I fell in love with him! I have been holding my breath in anticipation of his book ever since! And funnily enough...
From the moment Baird McMillan met Maia MacLeod, he was in love! She was gorgeous, kind, and 4 years his senior, but she was also engaged to be married, so he became her friend instead.
The gregarious goalie for Caley united has had a rough couple of years. He suffered a traumatic brain injury in-game with a long road to recovery and had to sit out for a season, but even now he's still having some lingering emotional/behavioral side effects.
When Maia's long-time fiancé Will breaks up with her, Baird is there as her best friend to help her pick up the pieces. When it turns out her work nemesis had put her forward for a special wedding feature, even though she'd declined, she has to either tell the embarrassing truth or face losing her job. Or she can go with Baird's brilliant idea-- show up with a new, hotter, more successful fiancé!
You guessed it! Baird suggests he can help her out by becoming her fake/real fiancé and marrying her in a couple months while her employer documents the whole thing! And if he happens to open her eyes to the way he feels about her and worm his way into her heart (and her bed), that's a happy bonus!
Baird and Maia's friendship is so beautiful. They each know the other better than anyone else, and they love each other exactly as they are. Maia has so much internalized trauma from when she was young that comes out in strange ways now, but Baird is always there to show her her worth. And Baird is always the life of the party and written off as just a fun time and a flirt, but Maia sees how deep he really is and appreciates him.
These two were just so fun and cute and full of banter, and I could not get enough of them the entire book! I ate up their every interaction! The slow burn and tension were sublime, and, WOO! When they finally break the seal, their chemistry is unreal! 🥵
Along with all the romantic and sexy parts, this story also deals with Baird's and Maia's traumas. Baird's being the near-death experience and looking to feel the rush of living in dangerous ways, and Maia's being her mother's drug abuse and abandonment that affected her self image and worth. There are some dark topics, so it may be a good idea to check the content warnings.
TL;DR - I LOVE BAIRD AND MAIA SO FREAKING MUCH. Baird's heart eyes gave me heart eyes! Just let me sit in a corner and watch them flirt and joke around forever, PLEASE! 😍
4.75⭐ 2.5🌶️
I read an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review. Thank you to author Samantha Young and Valentine PR for the ARC!
Hart Street Lane (Return to Dublin Street #3) by Samantha Young
Release Date: 1/15/26
The moment I met Baird McMillan in On Loverose Lane (Book 1), I fell in love with him! I have been holding my breath in anticipation of his book ever since! And funnily enough...
From the moment Baird McMillan met Maia MacLeod, he was in love! She was gorgeous, kind, and 4 years his senior, but she was also engaged to be married, so he became her friend instead.
The gregarious goalie for Caley united has had a rough couple of years. He suffered a traumatic brain injury in-game with a long road to recovery and had to sit out for a season, but even now he's still having some lingering emotional/behavioral side effects.
When Maia's long-time fiancé Will breaks up with her, Baird is there as her best friend to help her pick up the pieces. When it turns out her work nemesis had put her forward for a special wedding feature, even though she'd declined, she has to either tell the embarrassing truth or face losing her job. Or she can go with Baird's brilliant idea-- show up with a new, hotter, more successful fiancé!
You guessed it! Baird suggests he can help her out by becoming her fake/real fiancé and marrying her in a couple months while her employer documents the whole thing! And if he happens to open her eyes to the way he feels about her and worm his way into her heart (and her bed), that's a happy bonus!
Baird and Maia's friendship is so beautiful. They each know the other better than anyone else, and they love each other exactly as they are. Maia has so much internalized trauma from when she was young that comes out in strange ways now, but Baird is always there to show her her worth. And Baird is always the life of the party and written off as just a fun time and a flirt, but Maia sees how deep he really is and appreciates him.
These two were just so fun and cute and full of banter, and I could not get enough of them the entire book! I ate up their every interaction! The slow burn and tension were sublime, and, WOO! When they finally break the seal, their chemistry is unreal! 🥵
Along with all the romantic and sexy parts, this story also deals with Baird's and Maia's traumas. Baird's being the near-death experience and looking to feel the rush of living in dangerous ways, and Maia's being her mother's drug abuse and abandonment that affected her self image and worth. There are some dark topics, so it may be a good idea to check the content warnings.
TL;DR - I LOVE BAIRD AND MAIA SO FREAKING MUCH. Baird's heart eyes gave me heart eyes! Just let me sit in a corner and watch them flirt and joke around forever, PLEASE! 😍
4.75⭐ 2.5🌶️
I read an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review. Thank you to author Samantha Young and Valentine PR for the ARC!
January 10, 2026
Rating: 4.25/5
- sports romance: football (soccer) goalie
- she’s a fashion buyer
- friends to lovers
- fake engagement
- she’s four years older
- unrequited love
- reformed playboy
- he falls first
- 🌶️🌶️.5/5
- dual pov
POV: your fiancé dumps you, then your job announces you're the couple fronting their next major marketing campaign. If you say no, you essentially lose your job. So naturally, you recruit a new fake fiancé in the form of your friend, football goalie Baird.
We love a man who yearns and falls first 👏🏻. Baird has been quietly pining for Maia for two years, patiently waiting in the wings, and you know he takes his moment when it finally arrives. Watching him show her, again and again, through words and actions just how much she means to him is incredibly satisfying.
Both characters are layered and real (just how we like it 👏🏻). Maia carries deep trust issues rooted in a tumultuous childhood, while Baird is questioning his future in the game and who he wants to be beyond it. What really works is their vulnerability, openly sharing these struggles and working through them together. They become each other’s safe place, steady and grounded.
Add in the emotional weight of Maia’s family situation and a workplace bully, and you have a fast-moving plot. I flew through the audiobook!
Speaking of the audiobook, Samantha does not shy away from the spice, and Shane East takes it to another level entirely. I fear his gruff Scottish accent is my favourite, and Mhairi Morrison perfectly complementshim with her lighter tone. Just ensure you have your poker face locked in if listening in public 🤭.
Thanks to Must Love Audio for the early copy.
- sports romance: football (soccer) goalie
- she’s a fashion buyer
- friends to lovers
- fake engagement
- she’s four years older
- unrequited love
- reformed playboy
- he falls first
- 🌶️🌶️.5/5
- dual pov
POV: your fiancé dumps you, then your job announces you're the couple fronting their next major marketing campaign. If you say no, you essentially lose your job. So naturally, you recruit a new fake fiancé in the form of your friend, football goalie Baird.
We love a man who yearns and falls first 👏🏻. Baird has been quietly pining for Maia for two years, patiently waiting in the wings, and you know he takes his moment when it finally arrives. Watching him show her, again and again, through words and actions just how much she means to him is incredibly satisfying.
Both characters are layered and real (just how we like it 👏🏻). Maia carries deep trust issues rooted in a tumultuous childhood, while Baird is questioning his future in the game and who he wants to be beyond it. What really works is their vulnerability, openly sharing these struggles and working through them together. They become each other’s safe place, steady and grounded.
Add in the emotional weight of Maia’s family situation and a workplace bully, and you have a fast-moving plot. I flew through the audiobook!
Speaking of the audiobook, Samantha does not shy away from the spice, and Shane East takes it to another level entirely. I fear his gruff Scottish accent is my favourite, and Mhairi Morrison perfectly complementshim with her lighter tone. Just ensure you have your poker face locked in if listening in public 🤭.
Thanks to Must Love Audio for the early copy.
January 12, 2026
I’ve been dying for Baird’s story since book 1, and it was worth the wait! Shane East and Mhairi Morrison absolutely captured every emotional beat—from tender to flirty, they bring this story to life. Baird is the ultimate protective hero, patient and steady, and watching him quietly wait for Maia was everything. Their chemistry is 🔥he’s fun, flirty, and somehow brings out her lighter side while they navigate deep emotional scars.
This third book in the series explores past traumas beautifully. I loved Maia’s journey of healing from her mother’s abandonment and Baird’s unwavering support—it hits so hard. If you love friends to lovers, fake engagements, or sports romance, this one delivers in every way. 💛
Tropes:
👫 Friends to Lovers
💍 Fake Engagement
❤️ He Falls First & Harder
⚽️ Sports Romance
This third book in the series explores past traumas beautifully. I loved Maia’s journey of healing from her mother’s abandonment and Baird’s unwavering support—it hits so hard. If you love friends to lovers, fake engagements, or sports romance, this one delivers in every way. 💛
Tropes:
👫 Friends to Lovers
💍 Fake Engagement
❤️ He Falls First & Harder
⚽️ Sports Romance
January 18, 2026
5 My stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3🌶
I didn't expect Maya's and Baird story to be so...complex, heart-breaking but also heart-warming! I loved every single page of it!
3🌶
I didn't expect Maya's and Baird story to be so...complex, heart-breaking but also heart-warming! I loved every single page of it!
January 29, 2026
Fantastic series. Baird was just…*swoon*
5+ stars
5+ stars
Currently reading
January 21, 2026TWENTY. TWENTY. SIX???? 😭😭😭 she is mean!! (Jk take your time, I love your books Samantha!!)
January 15, 2026
5 stars
A beautiful story of unrequited love with a friends-to-lovers, fake engagement romance that stole my heart.
This is the third book in the Return to Dublin Street series, an On Dublin Street second-gen series, and this is the story of Maia, daughter of Logan from Moonlight on Nightingale Way. There is some character crossover from both this series and On Dublin Street but you can absolutely read this one as a standalone.
Football (soccer) star, Baird has been a huge scene stealer in previous books of this series, and he absolutely shines as the hero of his own story. He’s wildly in love with his good friend, Maia, but she’s engaged to another man so he’s kept his feelings to himself. But then Mais is suddenly single and reluctantly committed to a marketing campaign at work where her wedding planning and ceremony will be shared on social media. Being the helpful guy that he is, and also recognising it as an opportunity to help settle his wild partyboy reputation, Baird offers to step in to help with ” the most amazing plan a man in unrequited love had ever dreamed up”.
Maia had a devastating childhood but her life turned around when she found her dad when she was 15 years old. She’s now surrounded with love and a huge extended family, but the wounds from her past still have a strong hold on her and she has heartbreaking feelings of inadequacy and difficulty trusting others. She does trust Baird though, and with little other choice she agrees to his plan, putting their fake engagement on show for the whole world, complete with all of the dates, touching and eye-opening kisses that I love about a pretend romance.
The connection between these two is so gorgeous. They have a deep friendship, and watching them navigate their new dynamic is so awesome! Baird hasn’t been in a relationship before and has a lot to learn when it comes to having a woman in his life, but Maia guides him through it, and he’s determined to be the best man he can be for her. Watching him figure it all out while doing his best to win Maia’s heart is so, so gorgeous.
Between Baird’s learning curve and Maia’s emotional scars, these two have some challenges to overcome, but the shift from friendship to more is so natural and so beautiful, and it doesn’t take Maia long to fall completely under his spell.
The love story is fun, sweet, sexy and swoony. They are honest and functional and so madly in love, and I loved seeing these two together.
The rest of the extended Dublin Street crew make an appearance, and I loved seeing all of them again! A massive bonus was the scene with Braden imparting his relationship wisdom. God, I love that man!
This is such a gorgeous read. I got completely swept up in Baird and Maia’s story, and I loved this book.
5 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
A beautiful story of unrequited love with a friends-to-lovers, fake engagement romance that stole my heart.
This is the third book in the Return to Dublin Street series, an On Dublin Street second-gen series, and this is the story of Maia, daughter of Logan from Moonlight on Nightingale Way. There is some character crossover from both this series and On Dublin Street but you can absolutely read this one as a standalone.
Football (soccer) star, Baird has been a huge scene stealer in previous books of this series, and he absolutely shines as the hero of his own story. He’s wildly in love with his good friend, Maia, but she’s engaged to another man so he’s kept his feelings to himself. But then Mais is suddenly single and reluctantly committed to a marketing campaign at work where her wedding planning and ceremony will be shared on social media. Being the helpful guy that he is, and also recognising it as an opportunity to help settle his wild partyboy reputation, Baird offers to step in to help with ” the most amazing plan a man in unrequited love had ever dreamed up”.
Maia smacked her hands down on my shoulders to shake me. “Baird, we would be getting married. Not just engaged. Like, married. In front of the entire country. I might add. Globally, if this goes viral.”
Nevers fluttered in my stomach. The good kind. “Aye. I know. We’ll just get divorced after a year or so.” Or not. By then, I hoped I’d convinced Maia I was the one. That was the third part of this exceptional plan, but I wouldn’t share that with her.
I was a mess of emotions for this woman.
Maia had a devastating childhood but her life turned around when she found her dad when she was 15 years old. She’s now surrounded with love and a huge extended family, but the wounds from her past still have a strong hold on her and she has heartbreaking feelings of inadequacy and difficulty trusting others. She does trust Baird though, and with little other choice she agrees to his plan, putting their fake engagement on show for the whole world, complete with all of the dates, touching and eye-opening kisses that I love about a pretend romance.
Our eyes locked, and I trembled against the need to kiss her, soothe her, make her realize I would hand her the world
The connection between these two is so gorgeous. They have a deep friendship, and watching them navigate their new dynamic is so awesome! Baird hasn’t been in a relationship before and has a lot to learn when it comes to having a woman in his life, but Maia guides him through it, and he’s determined to be the best man he can be for her. Watching him figure it all out while doing his best to win Maia’s heart is so, so gorgeous.
“It feels nice to not play games with you. For you to just…for you to really want me in your life and not be afraid to say it.”
Baird pressed his chest to my back, his lips lingering at my ear. “The only way I’ll ever not be in your life is if you ask me to go. And even then...I’ll fight for you.”
Between Baird’s learning curve and Maia’s emotional scars, these two have some challenges to overcome, but the shift from friendship to more is so natural and so beautiful, and it doesn’t take Maia long to fall completely under his spell.
“Bear…if you tell me you’re serious about me and that you will never intentionally hurt me, then…I promise to believe you.”
His eyes flared and he took a step toward me, his voice gravelly with emotion. “Maia, I’m serious about you and I will never intentionally hurt you.”
The blood wooshed in my ears and my pulse raced frantically. My lips trembled around my next words. “Then I’m already yours.”
The love story is fun, sweet, sexy and swoony. They are honest and functional and so madly in love, and I loved seeing these two together.
“You are my everything. You are the safest place I’ve ever known.”
The rest of the extended Dublin Street crew make an appearance, and I loved seeing all of them again! A massive bonus was the scene with Braden imparting his relationship wisdom. God, I love that man!
This is such a gorgeous read. I got completely swept up in Baird and Maia’s story, and I loved this book.
5 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
January 15, 2026
Hart Street Lane was a beautiful story from beginning to end, and I felt it all. The emotion, the drama, the angst, the love… it was everything I needed it to be. Baird and Maia were exceptional characters, and I loved the build and their growth as they came together. This book has my heart, and I can’t recommend it enough.
I loved Baird and Maia. I felt for them as I learned their history and where they were at in life. All of Baird’s unrequited love for Maia made me melt! I loved how he stepped up with the fake engagement idea to help Maia, thanks to outside drama and tensions that came into play. It might have started fake, but their chemistry was off the charts, and I could feel the longing and feelings between them ratcheting up. I was caught up in all the emotion as they had their ups and downs, there were times it was gutting and heartbreaking. When they finally came together, it was a truly extraordinary moment.
I love a story that makes me feel. Where I hold my breath and get teary-eyed, and I feel like I’m right there with everyone. That’s what this story did for me. I loved seeing so many great characters, creating one big family, and the bonds they all have. I adored the relationship Maia had with Beth and Lily, and I loved Baird with his friends and how they had his back. I enjoyed the dual POVs, the descriptions and build, and how immersed I felt in this world. This was beyond five-star read for me!
Complimentary copy received.
I loved Baird and Maia. I felt for them as I learned their history and where they were at in life. All of Baird’s unrequited love for Maia made me melt! I loved how he stepped up with the fake engagement idea to help Maia, thanks to outside drama and tensions that came into play. It might have started fake, but their chemistry was off the charts, and I could feel the longing and feelings between them ratcheting up. I was caught up in all the emotion as they had their ups and downs, there were times it was gutting and heartbreaking. When they finally came together, it was a truly extraordinary moment.
I love a story that makes me feel. Where I hold my breath and get teary-eyed, and I feel like I’m right there with everyone. That’s what this story did for me. I loved seeing so many great characters, creating one big family, and the bonds they all have. I adored the relationship Maia had with Beth and Lily, and I loved Baird with his friends and how they had his back. I enjoyed the dual POVs, the descriptions and build, and how immersed I felt in this world. This was beyond five-star read for me!
Complimentary copy received.
January 18, 2026
My heart- I absolutely loved this story!
-Friends to lovers
-Fake engagement
-Dual POV
-Soccer romance
-Spice
I completely devoured and adored this story! Baird & Maia are two amazing people, coming together to form an amazing couple!
Both dealing with anxiety, and so much past trauma- they both have so much to overcome individually and together - in order to make it to the altar for both of their jobs!
I love Samantha Young’s romances, they are always so swoony, spicy, emotional, and have some humor sprinkled in- you really can’t go wrong!
Highly recommend for any romance lovers!
-Friends to lovers
-Fake engagement
-Dual POV
-Soccer romance
-Spice
I completely devoured and adored this story! Baird & Maia are two amazing people, coming together to form an amazing couple!
Both dealing with anxiety, and so much past trauma- they both have so much to overcome individually and together - in order to make it to the altar for both of their jobs!
I love Samantha Young’s romances, they are always so swoony, spicy, emotional, and have some humor sprinkled in- you really can’t go wrong!
Highly recommend for any romance lovers!
January 15, 2026
Thank you MLA for the #gifted alc.
🗓️ Jan 15
🎧 Shane East & Mhairi Morrison
Expect 👉🏼 Friends to Lovers, Secret Pining, Fake Dating, Engagement of Convenience
Once again, the audio for Samantha Young books are always masterfully done. I love love love the Scottish accents. I refuse to read her books any way but with my ears because it’s absolute magic! (They’re wonderful with your eyes too—but it’s an EXPERIENCE with your ears)
Friends to lovers will always be my jam. I love the pining. I love the “will they/wont they” and I love that once Baird was able to shoot his shot, he shot straight and with every fiber of his being 😍🫠
❓what’s your favorite trope (or genre) and give me an example of a fav book with that trope/genre?
🚨TW - check them. There is some recreational substance abuse that may be upsetting. Parental neglect and abuse along with other triggering matters.
🗓️ Jan 15
🎧 Shane East & Mhairi Morrison
Expect 👉🏼 Friends to Lovers, Secret Pining, Fake Dating, Engagement of Convenience
Once again, the audio for Samantha Young books are always masterfully done. I love love love the Scottish accents. I refuse to read her books any way but with my ears because it’s absolute magic! (They’re wonderful with your eyes too—but it’s an EXPERIENCE with your ears)
Friends to lovers will always be my jam. I love the pining. I love the “will they/wont they” and I love that once Baird was able to shoot his shot, he shot straight and with every fiber of his being 😍🫠
❓what’s your favorite trope (or genre) and give me an example of a fav book with that trope/genre?
🚨TW - check them. There is some recreational substance abuse that may be upsetting. Parental neglect and abuse along with other triggering matters.
January 16, 2026
I have been waiting for Baird and Maia’s story as soon as i got to meet them back in On Loverose Lane. And those two didn’t disappoint! I loved them though both of them were acting in parts a bit immature but then again they had trauma to deal with and to grow as characters!
I loved the whole fake engagement, and the premise, i do believe Will (was that the a-hole ex-fiance’s name?) deserved a beating of a lifetime, but we’re not in the dark romance, so i’ll forgive it.
Overall, this was an awesome listen, and i got to listen to a new narrator - Mhairi Morrinson, who was amazing!
I loved the whole fake engagement, and the premise, i do believe Will (was that the a-hole ex-fiance’s name?) deserved a beating of a lifetime, but we’re not in the dark romance, so i’ll forgive it.
Overall, this was an awesome listen, and i got to listen to a new narrator - Mhairi Morrinson, who was amazing!
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