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Dear Brother's Best Friend

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I’ve always wanted my brother’s best friend.
But he was older, off-limits, and never once looked my way.
Now I’m pregnant by another man, back in Whiskey Run, and barely holding it together.


Then the letters start.
Dirty. Sweet. Addictive.
They worship every broken piece of me… but they’re unsigned.

I should be focused on putting my life back together,
not daydreaming about two different men.

The one I’ve ached for since I was old enough to understand desire.
And the one who’s making me fall with every filthy, tender word.

They might be the same man.
Or they might not.

But if I open my heart again—to either of them—I could lose more than I already have.
Or maybe, just maybe, I’ll finally get everything I’ve been afraid to hope for.

This Valentine’s Day eight of your favorite instalove authors have something special just for you!

Our secret admirers are done pining and yearning. They’re more than ready to spring into action to be able to call their valentine mine. Pushed to the edge, these book boyfriends have been craving their women for too long and will do anything to claim them. From sweet nothings, whispered spicy dirty talk or sexy love notes, there is nothing they won't do to get their women.

Get ready for all the happily ever afters and swoon worthy moments that will guarantee to make your heart pitter patter with joy.

144 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 5, 2026

142 people are currently reading
47 people want to read

About the author

Hope Ford

280 books2,240 followers

Bestselling short romance author Hope Ford writes short, steamy, sweet romances.  She loves writing about ALPHA MEN that fall in love with CURVY WOMEN.  She has over 70 books and they are all available on Amazon.


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www.authorhopeford.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
Profile Image for Virginia.
298 reviews2 followers
February 6, 2026
Dear Brother's Best Friend by Hope Ford is part of the multi author Naughty Notes series and was a good read.
As an age gap, small town romance the plot and storyline was completely engaging especially with the main characters of Elijah, the older and best friend to brother of Samantha, pregnant and now single moving back to their hometown of Whisky Run.
Samantha has been in love with Elijah for a long time but as her older brothers best friend he's been off limits especially since she was rejected after a shared kiss 5 years ago.
Elijah has never been the same since that kiss and once he hears that 'Sassy' is moving back, regardless of being pregnant, younger and his best friends sister, he is going for it but just needs to convince 'Sassy' that she is his forever despite the huge mistake he made years ago.
Their attraction to one another hasn't dimmed, the chemistry sizzles and Elijah does his utmost to help and be there for Sassy whilst she resists for the sake of protecting herself from further heartbreak and her brother's friendship with Elijah.
It was definitely an entertaining read and the story was well paced right through to their HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nicole M.
837 reviews14 followers
Review of advance copy
February 5, 2026
I always love time spent in Whiskey Run. I was so excited for this brother's best friend romance and Hope Ford did not let me down.. not that she ever does. I loved Elijah and Sam. Elijah had me swooning left and right the whole dang book. While I absolutely understood where Sam was coming from with her desire to protect herself and her unborn baby, the amount of times I wanted to sit her down and give her a talking to... 🤣. I loved the sibling relationship between her and Kane. It wasn't perfect, it made me laugh and felt pretty real. All in all, another great story.
Profile Image for Nikki_Kate.
1,800 reviews
February 22, 2026
WOW!! Fab*u*lous Absolutely love this one!! I couldn't put this one down. This was a nice quick, short read.

Elijah and Samatha knew one another growing up, he's her brother's best friend. Five years ago Elijah kissed Samatha but he told her it was a mistake. Samatha went away to college, then stayed away with her boyfriend. Elijah finds out from Samatha's brother Kane that she's coming home, but she's pregnant. Elijah finds out that Samatha's ex-boyfriend doesn't want anything to do with the baby and he was caught cheating on her. When Samatha calls her brother Kane on her way to Whiskey Run she is broken down sitting at a gas station. Elijah goes to get Samatha since Kane has something he needs to do. Elijah has Samatha's car towed back to Whiskey Run and gives her a ride home. Elijah offers Samatha a job at his construction company when he finds out she doesn't have a job. After Samatha gets settled into her brother Kane's apartment, she heads to bed. The next day Samatha gets to work and works with Elijah's assistant. Elijah gets Samatha a car and knows she's going to fight him on it so he tells her it's a company car. After a few days Samatha starts to settle into her new job. Elijah's assistant receives flowers from her boyfriend and he overhears Samatha saying she's never received any. Elijah gives his assistant and Samatha a day of pampering and then heads to the local flower shop. Elijah has a standing order of flowers delivered to the nursing home but then he sees a bouquet he wants Samatha to have. Elijah takes the flowers and sets them in Samatha's office, when she gets back she's shocked. Elijah didn't notices the card attached to the flowers, that say she has a secret admirer. Elijah heads to the worksite to talk to Kane about dating Samatha. After Elijah gets Kane approval he asks Samatha to go to dinner with him. Samatha wants to know why Elijah is taking her out to dinner so he tells her it's a date. Samatha doesn't want her heart to be broken so she tells Elijah that she can't date him she knows he'll break her heart when he leaves her. Elijah promises that he'll never break Samatha's heart but she tells him he can't promise that. So Samatha decides to have some fun with Elijah and tells him it'll just be for fun. Elijah takes Samatha home after their first date and when she falls asleep on his couch he carries her to his bedroom. Elijah sleeps in the guest bedroom while Samatha sleeps in his. When Samatha wakes up Elijah has breakfast made for her. The following day Elijah takes Samatha shopping for maternity clothes then they head to the baby store. Elijah promised Samatha that he wouldn't buy anything that day but he remembers everything she tells him she wants. Elijah and Samatha are heading home when her brother calls so they invite him over to watch a game. Samatha stays the night with Elijah but when he goes to the guest bedroom the tells him she wants him in bed with her. Elijah makes sure this is what Samatha really wants, then he pleasures her. The next morning Elijah wakes up to Samatha pleasuring him then they make love. Samatha knows she's falling in love with Elijah but doesn't want to. So Samatha tells Elijah she needs to do somethings at Kane's apartment to give herself some space. A week goes by and Elijah asks Samatha to go out to dinner with him. The following day is Valentine's Day and Elijah has to go to the job site, but he asks Samatha to stay at his home in his bed. Samatha agrees that she'll stay in his home. When Samatha wakes up she knows she's alone in Elijah's home. When she goes downstairs she finds a big bouquet of flowers and a note from Elijah. Elijah confesses he's in love with Samatha and that he wants to marry her and have kids too. Samatha doesn't know why she didn't confess to Elijah that she loves him too, but knows she needs to. While on the job sit Elijah gets injured while saving Samatha's brother Kane, and is rushed to the hospital. Kane comes to Elijah's home to get Samatha and she knows the Instant she sees her brother that something is wrong. Samatha and Kane head to the hospital along the way Kane tells her what happened. When Samatha and Kane get to Elijah's room they find out he's going to be alright he has a concussion and needs to be observed. Samatha confesses to Elijah that she's in love with him and doesn't know why she hasn't told him. Elijah tells Samatha that he loves her too. After Elijah gets home, Samatha takes care of him, but he has a few more surprises for her. Samatha gives Elijah a letter and some chocolates. Elijah takes Samatha to the guest bedroom where he shows her everything he bought for the boy she's having. Then Elijah goes down on one knee and asks Samatha to marry him and she tells him yes. A few months later, when Samatha goes into labor Elijah never leaves her side. Samatha names her baby boy after Elijah giving him his middle name, Weston. Samatha and Elijah are married, and she knows there going to be okay.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Marnie.
1,288 reviews30 followers
Review of advance copy
February 4, 2026
The Naughty Notes were pure and total romance.

Seriously, I cannot get enough of the gorgeous alpha book boyfriend heroes that the small town of Whiskey Run seems to be keeping to themselves! With the release of DEAR BROTHER’S BEST FRIEND, Author Hope Ford has joined seven other authors in the Naughty Notes multi-author series to acknowledge Valentines Day, and is treating her readers to another Whiskey Run hottie, Elijah Wolfe, who addresses his naughty notes to the woman who has always been ‘it’ for him.

Five years ago, Elijah Wolfe noticed that his best friend’s younger sister had grown into the very woman he was unerringly attracted to. He’d kissed the life out of her then told her it had been a mistake. Back then, Samantha had been 20-years-old and all he could think about were the 10 years and one older brother who stood between them. In trying to be honourable, Elijah had broken both of their hearts, and Samantha had left Whiskey Run.

Now she was back, pregnant and dumped by the father of her baby. Now Elijah stepped up to claim the woman of his heart and an unborn child he knew he’d love.

Now he was open, honest and owning it. And it is what I loved about Ms Ford’s approach to this Best-Friend’s-Younger-Sister trope. I’ve not read many where the MMC looked his mate dead in the eye and calmly said, “I want to date your sister.”

No deceit, no sneaking around, no lying – I loved the whole premise!

Samantha, however, was not quite so easily agreeable, having had her heart broken by Elijah five years ago, and been most recently ditched by her baby’s father. I adored her for her independence, even in the face of uncertainty. She did know her brother, Elijah’s best friend would support and love her, but after Elijah’s insistence five years ago that the kiss had been a mistake, I’d have been disappointed if she’d caved early, and just accepted verbatim everything that he was offering and saying without question.

DEAR BROTHER’S BEST FRIEND was a quick read that was high on emotional connection, full of unconditional forever-love and high on heat. My heart was full and all romantically warm and fuzzy, while my eyeballs, I swear, were left wide-eyed and scorched 🔥🔥🔥

Ms Hope never fails to deliver amazing reads and she’s among great company this Valentine’s Day. Naughty Notes, Hot MMC’s, quick-satisfying novellas and multi-author talent. What more could a reader want???? Check out the others in the series. 4.5 Naughty-Note-scorchy-eyes-novella-stars 🔥✰💌•
Profile Image for Michelle Frater.
1,797 reviews21 followers
February 3, 2026
Samantha has loved her brother’s best friend, Elijah, for as long as she’s known what love is. So, when he kisses her, only to immediately call it a mistake, her heart shatters. Knowing she can’t stay and pretend everything is fine, Samantha leaves town, putting distance between herself and the man she’s always loved. Five years later, she returns home brokenhearted and pregnant with another man’s child. The moment Elijah hears the news, he knows this is his second chance and this time, he’s not holding back. He lied to her on that fateful night, afraid of hurting Samantha and damaging his relationship with her brother. Now, though, all bets are off. I loved how Samantha’s brother, Kane, immediately steps up, offering her a place to stay for as long as she needs and supporting her without hesitation. But from the second Elijah walks in and calls her “Sassy,” it’s clear there’s no competition. Elijah never once doubts that Samantha and her baby, both belong in his life. He doesn’t care who the biological father is; this is Samantha’s child, and he intends to love and protect them both as his own. From being her shoulder to cry on, to giving her a job and a car, Elijah is all in, ready to give her everything, including his heart. I especially loved that he was upfront with Kane about his intentions to pursue Samantha, and that Kane didn’t kick up a stink about it. When I picture the perfect leading man, Elijah fits the bill: caring and devoted, stubborn without being overbearing, determined but never forceful. The only thing I kept waiting for were those dirty, sweet, addictive letters. While there were chocolates and flowers, there was just one letter, near the very end, but honestly, it said everything that needed to be said. And while that letter finally helps Samantha face her feelings, it takes one potentially lethal accident to truly tear down the walls around her heart. As always, this is a heartwarming, relatable, feel-good story from Hope that settles right in your heart and stay there.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for kymagirl.
6,466 reviews89 followers
February 6, 2026
She needed safety. He gave her everything. Even when she wasn’t ready.

Samantha left Whiskey Run with a broken heart and came back pregnant, betrayed, and barely holding it together. She needed a fresh start, not another complication. But when Elijah, her brother’s best friend and the man she’s quietly loved for years, shows up instead of her ride, everything starts to shift.

Elijah never stopped watching over Samantha. Now she’s back, fierce but hurting, and he’s done keeping his feelings buried. From job offers to anonymous letters, he shows up in all the quiet ways that matter. But the closer they get, the harder it is to hold the line.

As the notes grow bolder and Elijah’s presence becomes the one thing she can rely on, Samantha starts to imagine a future she’d given up on. But trusting again isn’t easy, and love like this asks for more than she’s ever given.

One moment pushes everything to the surface, and suddenly neither of them can pretend anymore. What they’ve built quietly now asks to be chosen out loud.

Samantha grows from guarded and uncertain into someone who finds strength in softness and lets herself be loved. Elijah steps out of the shadows and becomes the kind of steady, open-hearted man who fights for the life he’s always wanted. Together, they shift from unresolved tension to deep emotional commitment, grounded in trust, honesty, and a future they choose every day.

A steamy, small town, age gap, brother’s best friend romance with a protective hero, surprise pregnancy, and anonymous love letters that stir something deep. It explores second chances, hidden longing, emotional vulnerability, family loyalty, and personal growth. At its heart, it’s about healing after betrayal, trusting someone who never stopped caring, and choosing love that stays.

The Elevator Pitch: A steamy small town romance where a guarded, pregnant woman finds unexpected safety in the arms of her brother’s best friend. Years of hidden longing build into something undeniable through anonymous letters, quiet devotion, and a love that never wavers. It’s slow burn, full heart, and the kind of love that stays.
1,553 reviews13 followers
February 6, 2026
I’ve always wanted my brother’s best friend.
But he was older, off-limits, and never once looked my way.
Now I’m pregnant by another man, back in Whiskey Run, and barely holding it together.

Then the letters start.
Dirty. Sweet. Addictive.
They worship every broken piece of me… but they’re unsigned.

I should be focused on putting my life back together,
not daydreaming about two different men.

The one I’ve ached for since I was old enough to understand desire.
And the one who’s making me fall with every filthy, tender word.

They might be the same man.
Or they might not.

But if I open my heart again—to either of them—I could lose more than I already have.
Or maybe, just maybe, I’ll finally get everything I’ve been afraid to hope for.

This contemporary brother's best friend, steamy, small-town age gap romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building and characters who are alpha male/female heroine, who are both captivating, humorous, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with dear brother's best friend, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, chaos/drama, humor, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with a dear brother's best friend and an explicit brother's best friend small-town age-gap romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly lustful, intriguing, and unforgettable.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,267 reviews28 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 2, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Emotional, sexy, and impossibly tender—this one hits all the right notes

Dear Brother’s Best Friend is everything I love about a Naughty Notes romance: longing, secrecy, emotional depth, and that delicious slow realization of oh… it’s always been you.

Sam is such a compelling heroine—vulnerable but strong, hurting yet still hopeful even when she doesn’t realize it. Coming back to Whiskey Run pregnant, overwhelmed, and carrying the weight of disappointment felt so real. Her voice broke my heart more than once.

And Elijah? Absolute book boyfriend material. The brother’s-best-friend tension is chef’s kiss, but what really shines is how deeply he sees Sam. The anonymous letters are the star of this story— tender, worshipful in a way that feels healing rather than just hot. Every letter pulled me deeper, and the emotional intimacy was just as intense as the chemistry.

The push and pull between the man she’s loved forever and the mystery man stealing her heart is handled beautifully. The reveal is so satisfying, and the payoff feels earned, not rushed. I loved watching Sam slowly reclaim her worth and allow herself to believe she deserves love—messy past and all.

This story is sexy, yes, but it’s also soft, emotional, and full of reassurance. It’s about choosing love when you’re scared, trusting someone who’s been quietly loving you all along, and finding home where you least expect it.

Hope Ford absolutely nailed this one. A must-read for fans of brother’s best friend, secret letters, pregnancy romance, and heartfelt HEAs. 💌🔥.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Korkoi.
7,237 reviews33 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 2, 2026
Finally Staking his Claim -
Elijah hadn’t gotten over his crush for his best friend’s sister, so when he found out she was in trouble, he volunteered to go and rescue her. Samantha was really upset about the situation she found herself in and she didn’t want to rely on her brother or Elijah, but she knew she had no other choice than to accept the help offered. Elijah took it upon himself to make Samantha’s life easier, which led to them spending time together and his feelings for her grew stronger, but he didn’t force her to accept and let her lead the way.

The sparks between Elijah and Samantha finally exploded into a mind blowing night together, but her fear nearly cost her a chance at happiness. Fortunately, Elijah kept up his pursuit of Samantha, which led to her finally letting her guard down. Unfortunately, just as Elijah and Samantha settled into their relationship, Elijah was in an accident and it forced Samantha to finally confess her feelings to him. As luck would have it, Elijah and Samantha were able to live the life they had always wanted together.

I really enjoyed reading this amazing love story with a bit of drama, some emotional and steamy moments, that came together beautifully in this fantastic romance. This is a perfect romance story for anyone who loves to read character driven romance plots with real heart. Grab a copy of this book now and entertain yourself for a few hours.

I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Laura Moylan.
1,565 reviews
February 7, 2026
Elijah and his best friend since high school Kane are working on something for their construction job when Kane’s tells Elijah that his sister, Samantha is coming home after five years, and she is pregnant. Her bf dumped her. It is all Elijah can do to not freak out, and calls her Sassy, and he has feelings for her just before she left. Elijah and Kane decide who is going to get her, and she is stuck at a gas station as her car died about two hours away. Since Kane has to break ground, Eli goes. So that they can adhere to the very tight timeline for construction. When Eli finds out how far along Sassy it, it bothers him. He just wants to help her carry the load. Poor Sam, she is in so much pain from having no job, going home 6 months along, etc. Eli is just amazing, since his office needs someone to help organize it, he offers her a job. Eli is also sneaky. He is a riot on how he talks Sassy into things. Carrie, Eli’s assistant, teaches Sam the ropes at the job. Sam lives with her brother Kane for a bit, until Eli makes a move, which was amazing by the way. lol. He is just so sweet and romantic about it and he shows her, his true feelings for her. The book is just so beautiful at how they start to fall for each other, even tho they’d had crushes on each other before that. Elijah, Kane and Sam’s love for each other is a beautiful thing. I loved the ending and I can’t wait to see when Kane falls for someone.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Shalalah.
696 reviews3 followers
February 5, 2026
Dear Brother’s Best Friend hit me right in that sweet spot where yearning, vulnerability, and hope all collide. Samantha’s life isn’t neat when this story opens—she’s pregnant, back in her hometown, and carrying more disappointment than she knows what to do with. That alone made her feel real. Tender. Easy to root for.

Then there are the letters. Whew. They’re intimate without being over the top, emotional without trying too hard, and they slowly become the heartbeat of the story. I loved how they gave Samantha space to feel seen and cherished at a moment when she needs it most. The mystery of who’s behind them adds just enough tension to keep the pages turning.

Elijah is everything you want in a brother’s-best-friend hero: steady, quietly protective, and far deeper than he lets on. The age gap and small-town closeness raise the stakes in a way that feels organic, not forced. When things finally come together, it’s incredibly satisfying—earned, emotional, and yes, swoony.

This novella delivers heart, heat, and a hopeful HEA without dragging things out. If you love secret feelings, second chances, and romances that make you believe timing really is everything, this one’s absolutely worth the read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Dee.
5,107 reviews58 followers
February 7, 2026
Want something short and fulfilling this would be it 😊 Samantha has crushed on her brother’s best friend for as long as she remember what love felt like it started as a crush but the older she got the stronger the feelings grew, so when he kissed her one evening only to tell her he made a mistake breaking heart, and causing her to leave town knowing she can no longer stay. Fast forward, five years later she comes home with a broken heart, pregnant with another man’s child. Elijah sexy as all get out Wolfe brother fell for his best friend’s sister but being ten years older knew it wasn’t a good idea so keeping his feeling to himself but one day he couldn’t help himself giving in to one kiss and immediately telling her it was a mistake breaking her heart and his heart at the same time. Now that she back in Whiskey Run he sees this as his second chance one he isn’t going to waste despite her being pregnant as far as he is concerned she and her baby are his to love, to take care of to beg for a second chance and he warns her brother of his feelings for her deciding to show her how much he cares but will she trust him again with her hear especially after the last time, will she trust at all after the father of her child, is he willing to accept her baby, and will they see the second chance fate gave them along with happiness?
506 reviews9 followers
February 5, 2026
Back in Whiskey Run (this town has so many couples who make me swoon :o)). Elijah and his best friend Kane have gone through a lot and even have a company together. So when Elijah kissed Kane's sister Samantha five years ago, he told her it was a mistake, also they both felt that they were in love with the other person. But being ten years older and not wanting to destroy their friendship, Elijah made the big mistake. Samantha left town. Now, five years later she is back and prgenant. Her brother offers her help and a place to stay. But as soon as Elijah hears his 'Sassy' is back he swoops in and is determined to pursue her and not even her wanting to do it all on her own or her brother can stop him... I devoured the book, like always with Hope Ford's stories. Also Elijah is determined, he does it in a sweet, respecting and gentle way, not so pushy or total overbearing. What can I say just a perfect Valentine read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
11.8k reviews48 followers
February 15, 2026
Loved it so much!

Dear Brother's Best Friend by Hope Ford is part of the multi-author Naughty Notes series. This forbidden romance story is about Samantha, aka Sam/Sassy, and Elijah. He has been best friends with Kane, Sam's older brother, since they were ninth grade. He has loved her for years but she has been off limits in every way. Now Sam is coming back home to Whiskey Run, pregnant by a man who does not want either of them. She is not sure what she is going to do but she does not that Eli is the man she has loved for years. Now Eli sees a chance to make Sassy his and he is going to take it and run until they get the HEA they were meant to have, that one that was written in the stars. Every word holds a meaning, every letter is a secret love song, every touch will ignite their passion.
I loved this book so much. The story is well written and paced perfectly. The characters are all lovable and people you would want to be friends with in real life. Plus I love the author's Whiskey Run world.
2,485 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy
February 2, 2026
A wonderfully written story with a strong alpha lead, Elijah who owns his own construction company run with his bestfriend, Kane. Kane's sister Samantha (Sassy) was returning home after five years. Elijah kissed her on her last night in town that being his last female interaction to present time. Her kiss meant that much to him. Big news was Sassy was returning six months pregnant. Her boyfriend cheated on her, and he decided he did not want a family. Hence, the return home to live with Kane. Elijah soon had her set up with in his office, a company car, bought her new clothes, and informed Kane he was going to date her. Sassy tried to be stubborn, but her going against Eli was impossible. She did not want to get to close to Eli for fear of falling back in the old trap of her teenage years of being in love with him. But he sure made things hard for a girl.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tiffany  Hill.
783 reviews16 followers
February 7, 2026
**It Has Always Been You!**

*Dear Brother’s Best Friend* by Hope Ford is the fourth book in the multi-author Naughty Notes series. I absolutely loved Elijah and Sam. They have had feelings for each other for a long time, but have been hesitant because Elijah is Sam’s brother’s best friend, and they don’t want to come between Kane and Elijah’s friendship.

Now that Sam is moving back home after being rejected by her ex-boyfriend, Elijah is determined to let her know exactly how he feels. He is willing to do whatever it takes to keep Sam and her baby safe. As Sam finally begins to let down the walls she has built around herself, she can no longer deny her feelings for Elijah, which have never faded. Their connection ignites sparks between them.

I really enjoyed the sweet, fun banter between them, making their love story an easy, enjoyable read before bedtime.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
353 reviews12 followers
February 10, 2026
This was such a sweet novella and I loved every second of it! Elijah regretted telling Samantha that their kiss was a mistake 5 years ago and he’s not letting his second chance slip away. He was so sweet and loved her exactly as she needed. He was romantic, caring, and healed her heart. The way he loved her and her unborn baby was perfection! Samantha was a sweetheart who felt like she was a burden and undeserving of love, but helped everyone else around her. She ran scared, but Elijah was determined and it was exactly what she needed. I didn’t think I would like the whole pregnant with another man’s baby thing, but the ex wasn’t in it at all and seeing him fall in love with the baby too was so sweet. No cheating or OM/OW drama, dual POV, age gap of 10 years, 6 months pregnant when they meet again, HEA and an adorable epilogue during birth. Can’t wait to see what’s next, maybe even a book for Kane?
Profile Image for Rainbowlovesbooks.
739 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 28, 2026
Part of the Naughty Notes multi author series we get a 5 star read from Hope that I was so excited to read, and believe me I wasn't disappointed.

Elijah and Samantha's story is so sweet, you can tell from the start how much Elijah loves Samantha. I loved how he uses his pet name of Sassy for her and jumps straight into help her (I swooned hard for Elijah I won't lie).
They are a great couple for one another and their ending is sweet.

What to expect
💜 Dual POV
💜 Instalove
💜 Mutal Pining (5 years worth minimum)
💜 Steamy Scenes (but slow burn)
💜 Protective MMC
💜 Pregnant FMC (but it's not the MMCs baby)
💜 Boss / Employee
💜 Age Gap
💜 Pure Love
💜 HEAs

Absolutely brilliant 5 star read, I loved every minute of it and will definitely be rereading this because I got the warm fuzzies.
132 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy
February 5, 2026
This is a beauty of a story! It's emotional, it's spicy, tender and raw, it's word perfection wrapped up in a perfect little bow. It's stories like these that remind me why I love reading so much!

Dear Brother’s Best Friend is an unbelievable romance that showcases exactly what pulls me in as a reader; amazing world-building, on point plot, longing, drama, emotional depth, that delicious slow burn, off-the-charts chemistry and feel-good moments that warm the heart.

There's character vulnerability and there's hope, too. Sam and Elijah are such beautifully written characters. You become so invested in them, their pain, their joy, their journey to an HEA. You truly root for them. This book makes you feel all the feels. I can't express enough how special this novel is and how much everyone needs to read it!!

Profile Image for Passionate pages.
8 reviews
Review of advance copy
February 5, 2026
2.5 starts for effort and a few good quotes I enjoyed.

Part of a multi author 8 book series in time for Valentine's Day.
I usually love everything Hope Ford writes, but this just didn't do it for me. I read it all in one night because I wanted to know if the writing would get any better. It was almost like this one was written by a newbie ghost writer. Overall the main characters are good enough, but I just couldn't connect to the story. Even the love letter (theme of the series) seemed like an afterthought. It should have been a main theme rather than just thrown in. Some of the plot points are good, but overall not executed very well. I did like the bonus and thought it should have been included.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,140 reviews8 followers
February 5, 2026
This is part of the multi author Naughty Notes series and features a brother’s best friend/second chance at love romance and I gotta say, I was so put out with Sam (aka Sassy), that I was ready give her a piece of my mind!! Talk about stubborn! Elijah, the MMC on the other hand, was a living doll and he was all in from page one whereas she always had one foot out the door; needless to say, I wasn’t her biggest fan. Unfortunately for her, his kind and caring nature painted her in a much more highly unfavorable light—even more than her own actions had done.

To me, Elijah MADE this book. Without him, I wouldn’t have even given Sam 4 stars though Elijah himself deserved 5. Don’t let me put you off though, check it out for yourself as Ms Ford is an awesome author.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Angi.
1,427 reviews
Review of advance copy
February 5, 2026
Samantha had been in love with Elijah forever but after they finally kiss he tells her it’s a mistake. She leaves town for 5 years but has to move home when she becomes pregnant. Elijah knows this is his chance to get her back. This story is sweet and a great second chance love story. I love Samantha’s brother Kane who is immediately unconditionally supportive. Elijah is willing to do anything to prove Samantha and this baby are his and he wants them both. This was a great heartfelt read, the characters will melt your heart and this is one of those books that will stick with you after you’ve finished it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.8k reviews367 followers
February 5, 2026
Samantha and Elijah . . .

Samantha had always been attracted to her brother Kane's best friend, Elijah. But the usual off-limits standard ("stupid bro-code") kept them apart, except for the one kiss 5 years ago that Elijah claimed had been a mistake. Samantha left town and ended up pregnant and returned back home. Elijah realizes he made a mistake when he backed off from a relationship with Samantha. Will he be able to convince her he wants another chance with her? Will the secret letters he writes draw her back to him? Their story will tug on your emotions as you cheer for the characters to find the love they walked away from. Is there a HEA waiting at the end of their journey this time?
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.4k reviews93 followers
February 6, 2026
It’s been five years since Elijah shared a life changing kiss with Samantha, his best friend’s sister, even if he pushed away after it happened. When he finds out that she is pregnant and moving back the one thing he does know is that he isn’t about to repeat the mistakes of the past and he is determined to claim her and the baby she is carrying as his own.

Samantha hasn’t forgotten the kiss she shared with Elijah or the pain she felt when he pushed her away. She needs to focus on her baby however it is hard to not be swayed by the sweet things he always does for her even if she is getting notes from a secret admirer.

Hot chemistry and all the feels as Elijah knows that he wants a future with Samantha and isn’t willing to accept anything less.
Profile Image for Aspen G.
1,759 reviews5 followers
February 6, 2026
Dear Brother’s Best Friend is phenomenally beautiful. Elijah and Sassy are so good together! She has really been through it, and the ways he shows up for her and meets her where she is at are so gorgeous. Sassy is real, down to earth, and kind, yet she lacks self esteem—which is understandable once we learn what she’s been through. Elijah is the quintessential book boyfriend—patient, attentive, caring, and respectful of her boundaries. I just love Whiskey Run and the new people we meet there in each book. Author Hope Ford has built a fast-paced and addictive story that gripped me from start to finish. So good!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lexi.
1,031 reviews
Read
February 6, 2026
Kind of disappointing. The premise was good, but:

1. Dear Brother's Best Friend? Naughty Notes? There are no naughty notes and she doesn't write a single thing in the entire novella.
2. His motivations are not as strong as I wish they were. There's not enough articulation of why he suddenly wants her or the degree to which he should be thinking over what it means to raise the kid. Even though these things are obvious and happening, what's the point in getting his POV without getting many of his actual thoughts? (And maybe this is on me; the format of this story isn't one where we normally get a lot of rich characters. Still, though. It gets to be just going through the motions at a certain point.)
1,624 reviews4 followers
February 8, 2026
This book is a part of the Naughty Notes series and focuses on Elijah and Samantha. Elijah has been best friends with Samantha’s brother for most of his life. Elijah and Samantha had shared a kiss 5 years prior that ended up with both of them with broken hearts and Samantha leaving town for 5 long years. Now, Samantha is back in Whiskey Run 6 months pregnant after her life took a bit of a detour. Elijah knows that this is his chance at finally having forever with Samantha. It takes a bit because Samantha’s walls are up due to their past and her current situation but Elijah knows what he wants and is determined to finally make Samantha his. This was a great story and a great addition to the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for See Julia Read.
42 reviews4 followers
February 16, 2026
Title: Dear Brother’s Best Friend by Hope Ford
Series: Naughty Notes

Tropes: Instalove, Pregnancy, Brothers Best Friend, Forced Proximity

Heat: 3 / 5

POV: Dual POV, 1st Person

Main Characters: Samantha, a soon to be mom who goes home to her brother and her brother’s best friend Elijah who is a CEO and has been pining for Samantha since they were young.

Favorite Moment: When he leaves her flowers on her desk.

Favorite Quote: “I’m buying them because when I see those red marks on your body I feel like I failed at something I didn't even know I was responsible for yet.” -Elijah

Overall Vibe: Spicy hallmark vibes

Rating: 5/5

Who would love this: Anyone who loves a single parent romance or a second chance love story.
Profile Image for Terra Oenning.
3,573 reviews
Review of advance copy
January 29, 2026
This book is a fast read and brothers best friend taboo that will definitely have you engrossed from the beginning until the end. Samantha is the one who was on the off limits because its Elijahs best friends sister and the one who has owned his heart but now shes coming home,but will he be able to stay away from her? Samantha has always loved Elijah but when he told her that it wouldn't work out she left town. Now back will they get their happy ending or will the off limits still stand? Absolutely loved this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nichole Loza.
344 reviews1 follower
January 30, 2026
I love a golden retriever MMC. Hope Ford always delivers the best MMCs who will protect those he loves. In Dear Brother’s Best Friend, we get it all. There is an age-gap, brother’s best friend, and she is pregnant by another man, no cheating here! Elijah has been in love with his best friend’s little sister forever. But he couldn’t act on that love for fear of hurting his friend and her. But when Samantha returns to town, pregnant by another man, a loser who left her, Elijah knew Sam would be his. Elijah gives Sam a job, a car and his heart. This is a slow burn, but it is so worth it! Loved it!
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