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Just What I Needed
On her own for the very first time after her parents retire to Florida, Carson Webber can finally start her real life. Tired of being sheltered and ignored, she’s got a plan to put herself out there. Armed with a dating app, a pair of roller skates, and a sunny disposition, she’s running at life with arms wide open. Even if her new roommate, her best friend’s broody older brother, has her blushing and stumbling every time she opens her mouth.
Dan McBride is good at keeping secrets. He’s not talking about why he lost his job, or why he left New York. He’s not telling anyone why his bank account is empty or why the federal government is investigating him. And he’s certainly not talking about the way his little sister’s best friend, the bubbly, sunshiny kindergarten teacher, makes him feel.
Then one disastrous date and a late-night drunken confession opens the door for a flood of secrets. Because it turns out the best person to help you be who you are is the one person who can’t see you as anything else.
Just What I Needed is the third book in the Cardinal Springs series, but can be read as a standalone. It delivers humor, heat, and a guaranteed HEA!
Dan McBride is good at keeping secrets. He’s not talking about why he lost his job, or why he left New York. He’s not telling anyone why his bank account is empty or why the federal government is investigating him. And he’s certainly not talking about the way his little sister’s best friend, the bubbly, sunshiny kindergarten teacher, makes him feel.
Then one disastrous date and a late-night drunken confession opens the door for a flood of secrets. Because it turns out the best person to help you be who you are is the one person who can’t see you as anything else.
Just What I Needed is the third book in the Cardinal Springs series, but can be read as a standalone. It delivers humor, heat, and a guaranteed HEA!
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2026
12 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Morrill
18 books1,060 followersLauren Morrill is the author of spicy adult and sweet YA romance, including Sister of the Bride, Meant to Be (Delacorte) and It’s Kind of a Cheesy Love Story (Farrar, Straus and Giroux). She loves all things romantic comedy and specializes in kissing books. Lauren lives in Knoxville, TN with her husband, Adam Ragusea, and their two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
January 4, 2026
Thank you Lauren Morrill and Lovenotes PR for the eARC
I absolutely loved this book! Just What I Needed is a Grumpy x Sunshine, best friend's older brother romance. Dan and Carson (the MCs) have known each other since childhood and Dan ends up becoming Carson’s roommate after moving back from New York.
Dan is a quiet and secretive guy, who has just lost his job and is being investigated by the government. Being around Carson allows Dan to open up and makes him feel.
Carson is a bright and bubbly FMC, who is very sheltered and listens too much to her parents' opinions. Throughout the book it is amazing to see her growth and become more confident as a person. It was wonderful to see her make new friends as well as having really good old friends.
This book was an addictive read, I couldn’t put it down! I love a small town romance and this is one I highly recommend. The only reason it isn’t 5 stars for me is because I wish we got more about Dan’s job and the investigation.
I absolutely loved this book! Just What I Needed is a Grumpy x Sunshine, best friend's older brother romance. Dan and Carson (the MCs) have known each other since childhood and Dan ends up becoming Carson’s roommate after moving back from New York.
Dan is a quiet and secretive guy, who has just lost his job and is being investigated by the government. Being around Carson allows Dan to open up and makes him feel.
Carson is a bright and bubbly FMC, who is very sheltered and listens too much to her parents' opinions. Throughout the book it is amazing to see her growth and become more confident as a person. It was wonderful to see her make new friends as well as having really good old friends.
This book was an addictive read, I couldn’t put it down! I love a small town romance and this is one I highly recommend. The only reason it isn’t 5 stars for me is because I wish we got more about Dan’s job and the investigation.
January 11, 2026
4.5/5 This is one of the cutest, easiest reads I’ve had in a while!
Best friend’s older brother & Grumpy/Sunshine is always an excellent combo in my eyes but this one exceeds my expectations.
Dan is a NY finance bro who’s forced to move home to his small town because of some shady deals he got mixed up in. You think okay so he might be a little douchey but ends up being an anxious, artist, who was just talked over by his boisterous family. I love a broody, quiet MMC that end up being chatty in the bedroom! 😍
I do wish we would have gotten a bit more on Dan’s drama though.
And then there’s Carson! She’s this cute, curvy, bubbly, sunshine human that’s learning to stand on her own and truly decide who she wants to be! And she’s a badass!
If you love small towns, secret swooning, skinney dipping, roommates, roller derby, and secret tattoos you’re going to love this one.
Shout out to Lauren for being an adorable human!
And to Love Notes PR for the ARC!
Best friend’s older brother & Grumpy/Sunshine is always an excellent combo in my eyes but this one exceeds my expectations.
Dan is a NY finance bro who’s forced to move home to his small town because of some shady deals he got mixed up in. You think okay so he might be a little douchey but ends up being an anxious, artist, who was just talked over by his boisterous family. I love a broody, quiet MMC that end up being chatty in the bedroom! 😍
I do wish we would have gotten a bit more on Dan’s drama though.
And then there’s Carson! She’s this cute, curvy, bubbly, sunshine human that’s learning to stand on her own and truly decide who she wants to be! And she’s a badass!
If you love small towns, secret swooning, skinney dipping, roommates, roller derby, and secret tattoos you’re going to love this one.
Shout out to Lauren for being an adorable human!
And to Love Notes PR for the ARC!
January 15, 2026
Cute, easy small town romance. Loved the character growth from Carson, the kindergarten teacher turned roller derby girl. My favorite part was Carson standing up to her mother. Dan is the broody, introvert, and black sheep of his family. The only thing I wanted a little more clarity and resolution on was his social anxiety. Loved the tattoo storyline. Overall a good time.
Tropes:
*grumpy/sunshine
*opposites attract
*forced proximity
*best friend’s older brother
*secret tattoos & piercings
Tropes:
*grumpy/sunshine
*opposites attract
*forced proximity
*best friend’s older brother
*secret tattoos & piercings
January 18, 2026
They are the perfect pairing! This was a fun book to read. It was quite entertaining seeing both of them out of their comfort. It never stopped her that he was her best friend's brother.
You follow Dan, a "finance bro" under investigation, and Carson, a kindergarten teacher. They were thrown together due to unexpected events. I honestly loved how opposite their personalities were and how well they could read each other.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
You follow Dan, a "finance bro" under investigation, and Carson, a kindergarten teacher. They were thrown together due to unexpected events. I honestly loved how opposite their personalities were and how well they could read each other.
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
January 14, 2026
*Thank you to Love Notes PR for an ARC in exchange for my honest review*
The biggest red flag about Dan is that he only eats one hot dog a year, I said what I said.
But what a ride. We finally get closure of the delicious cliffhanger ending from Caught Up in You, because there was no way Dan McBride was *that* bad of a boy. And Carson was the perfect foil with the whole "good girl gone bad" vibe. She's a buttoned-up kindergarten teacher going through a little bit of a quarter-life crisis. Because who didn't want to go join a roller derby league at one point in their life? And god I love roller derby, give me all of it ALL the time. Give me a romance completely devoted to roller derby STAT. Give me an entire spinoff series, I'M HERE FOR IT.
Sadly the only thing getting blown in this book is whistles (and Carson's mind, I suppose), but there's plenty of steam and spice to make up for it. And Dan was down bad for her from the get-go, almost remarkably so. My only complaint was that it felt *short*, I wanted more character growth and plot and we had space for it! Give me mooooore.
But hey, there are 2 books left in the series so plenty more Cardinal Springs to come!
The biggest red flag about Dan is that he only eats one hot dog a year, I said what I said.
But what a ride. We finally get closure of the delicious cliffhanger ending from Caught Up in You, because there was no way Dan McBride was *that* bad of a boy. And Carson was the perfect foil with the whole "good girl gone bad" vibe. She's a buttoned-up kindergarten teacher going through a little bit of a quarter-life crisis. Because who didn't want to go join a roller derby league at one point in their life? And god I love roller derby, give me all of it ALL the time. Give me a romance completely devoted to roller derby STAT. Give me an entire spinoff series, I'M HERE FOR IT.
Sadly the only thing getting blown in this book is whistles (and Carson's mind, I suppose), but there's plenty of steam and spice to make up for it. And Dan was down bad for her from the get-go, almost remarkably so. My only complaint was that it felt *short*, I wanted more character growth and plot and we had space for it! Give me mooooore.
But hey, there are 2 books left in the series so plenty more Cardinal Springs to come!
January 11, 2026
I have thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved the concept of the FMC finding her way and still having the focus on herself to then also have the love and romance be part of her journey without it being the main focus. I did go into this book without having read the first 2 books and it was still easy enough to follow. Reading book three, you can tell who the couples are and it is good to see how they are doing, although at some point I will be going back to read the other books to better understand their stories.
January 13, 2026
This book was amazing & my favorite so far in the Cardinal Springs series & my favorite Lauren Morrill book yet! I loved how raw & emotional it was as it examined Dan's grief at losing his mom and how it had developed his personality & interactions with his family. I related so much to Carson & her relationship with her mom. I loved seeing her come in to her own & stand up for & believe in herself. There were so many funny parts & it had such great romance between Dan & Carson. I loved all the new characters we were introduced to, especially Violet!
I was lucky enough to read an advanced copy of this book courtesy of @laurenmorrill & @lovenotespr in exchange for an honest review.
I was lucky enough to read an advanced copy of this book courtesy of @laurenmorrill & @lovenotespr in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Just What I Needed hit me right in the feels for a messy, tender, beautifully human romance. From the moment Carson and Dan get pushed into forced proximity, the story shifts into this delicious, slow‑building tension that never lets up.
Carson is vibrant and bubbly in the best way, always doing for others and conforming based on her family’s opinions. Until she finds herself on her own for the first time and puts herself out there by joining a roller derby league. She’s got big feelings, is a bit bruised and has a heart that’s been told to quiet down for too long. With Dan, she finally gets to be loud, unfiltered, and fully herself. And Dan… oh, Dan. Buttoned‑up, quiet, hiding‑from-his-life Dan. The man who looks like a clean‑cut accountant until the shirt comes off and suddenly he’s covered in ink, every tattoo a story he’s not ready to tell.
Their arrangement starts as “just sex,” a neat little box they both pretend they can fit into. But every moment between them betrays that lie. The way he listens to her. The way she steadies him without even trying. The way he shows up, again and again, like when he swoops in to rescue her from a couple of truly disastrous dates AND showing what a good date should look like, trying to pretend it’s no big deal even though it absolutely is.
The chemistry between these two and the connection, it’s not just physical. It’s emotional in that quiet, devastating way. He gives her, her first tattoo; this intimate, skin‑deep moment that feels like a promise neither of them will say out loud. They go skinny‑dipping, laughing and vulnerable and free in a way that feels like shedding old versions of themselves. He supports her dreams. She listens to the things he’s never said to anyone. They keep insisting it’s casual, but every scene screams this is more.
By the end, it’s not just a romance, it’s two people finding a place to land. A story about being seen, fully and without flinching, and realizing that maybe you don’t have to run anymore. Maybe you just needed the right person to stay. You’ll laugh, cry, and swoon! They make mistakes because they are human and toy love them anyway because they show up when it matters most
Can’t say enough good things about this book! A huge thank you to Lauren Morrill and LoveNotes PR for the early copy!
Carson is vibrant and bubbly in the best way, always doing for others and conforming based on her family’s opinions. Until she finds herself on her own for the first time and puts herself out there by joining a roller derby league. She’s got big feelings, is a bit bruised and has a heart that’s been told to quiet down for too long. With Dan, she finally gets to be loud, unfiltered, and fully herself. And Dan… oh, Dan. Buttoned‑up, quiet, hiding‑from-his-life Dan. The man who looks like a clean‑cut accountant until the shirt comes off and suddenly he’s covered in ink, every tattoo a story he’s not ready to tell.
Their arrangement starts as “just sex,” a neat little box they both pretend they can fit into. But every moment between them betrays that lie. The way he listens to her. The way she steadies him without even trying. The way he shows up, again and again, like when he swoops in to rescue her from a couple of truly disastrous dates AND showing what a good date should look like, trying to pretend it’s no big deal even though it absolutely is.
The chemistry between these two and the connection, it’s not just physical. It’s emotional in that quiet, devastating way. He gives her, her first tattoo; this intimate, skin‑deep moment that feels like a promise neither of them will say out loud. They go skinny‑dipping, laughing and vulnerable and free in a way that feels like shedding old versions of themselves. He supports her dreams. She listens to the things he’s never said to anyone. They keep insisting it’s casual, but every scene screams this is more.
By the end, it’s not just a romance, it’s two people finding a place to land. A story about being seen, fully and without flinching, and realizing that maybe you don’t have to run anymore. Maybe you just needed the right person to stay. You’ll laugh, cry, and swoon! They make mistakes because they are human and toy love them anyway because they show up when it matters most
Can’t say enough good things about this book! A huge thank you to Lauren Morrill and LoveNotes PR for the early copy!
January 20, 2026
Thank you Lovenotes PR and Lauren Morrill for this ARC copy!
This book was a hilarious joy. We have two delightful main characters, good writing, a great sense of humor, and an interesting plot with a glimpse into fun activities (roller derby and tattooing!). I read it quite quickly and it went down like a glass of lactose-free chocolate milk.
Let me present two concrete examples that bring me joy:
1) The first example I present is this vicious take-down of Chad, or whatever the F this forgettable guy’s name is (not one of our two main characters, obviously): “Even in my smuttiest fantasies, he remains the kind of guy who wouldn’t take his sunglasses off to have sex. I bet his dirty talk is about pivot tables. I bet he comes to the sound of the New York Stock Exchange opening bell. I bet his kink is a good midyear review with HR.” I mean – does writing get anymore poignant than that? We all know guys like this and this is such a beautiful description of his suckiness.
2) Example two: This book contains perhaps the greatest line said from one person to another: “ ‘I don’t want to take you to the gym to make you smaller. I want to take you to the gym to make you bigger,’ he says, like he can’t believe anyone would ever suggest anything else.” I’m slightly worried this moment got me pregnant. I don’t know how I would explain that to my husband, and I thought I was done having kids, but it was worth it to witness this beautiful moment of body positivity, earnestness, and appreciation of strength.
Overall, I enjoyed the other characters, the main plot, and side plots, including Lauren’s relationship with her parents, which was handled with compassion, nuance, but also realism. I am the type of person who finishes almost any book, no matter what. But this book was a true joy to read.
This book was a hilarious joy. We have two delightful main characters, good writing, a great sense of humor, and an interesting plot with a glimpse into fun activities (roller derby and tattooing!). I read it quite quickly and it went down like a glass of lactose-free chocolate milk.
Let me present two concrete examples that bring me joy:
1) The first example I present is this vicious take-down of Chad, or whatever the F this forgettable guy’s name is (not one of our two main characters, obviously): “Even in my smuttiest fantasies, he remains the kind of guy who wouldn’t take his sunglasses off to have sex. I bet his dirty talk is about pivot tables. I bet he comes to the sound of the New York Stock Exchange opening bell. I bet his kink is a good midyear review with HR.” I mean – does writing get anymore poignant than that? We all know guys like this and this is such a beautiful description of his suckiness.
2) Example two: This book contains perhaps the greatest line said from one person to another: “ ‘I don’t want to take you to the gym to make you smaller. I want to take you to the gym to make you bigger,’ he says, like he can’t believe anyone would ever suggest anything else.” I’m slightly worried this moment got me pregnant. I don’t know how I would explain that to my husband, and I thought I was done having kids, but it was worth it to witness this beautiful moment of body positivity, earnestness, and appreciation of strength.
Overall, I enjoyed the other characters, the main plot, and side plots, including Lauren’s relationship with her parents, which was handled with compassion, nuance, but also realism. I am the type of person who finishes almost any book, no matter what. But this book was a true joy to read.
January 31, 2026
Okay. I should have loved this book. I wanted to love this book. I’ve been waiting for Dan’s story for since Book 1, and this started out so strong - and then it kind of fell apart for me.
First act - great. Sibling’s best friend is one of my favorite tropes. Friends to lovers? I’ll eat that for breakfast. Forced proximity? Yes, please. And there’s great chemistry between two likable characters. Everything is setting up for another awesome book.
Second act - weirdly bland and slow. Nothing bad but nothing really happens either. Feels like they keep doing variations of the same scenario. At one point I wondered if my kindle hadn’t synced to the current page but no it was just more of a holding pattern.
Third act - annoying and rushed.
I liked Carson a lot and her personal growth throughout the book, especially the conversation she had with Grace.
I was 0% impressed with Grace. Could she have shown a little concern for Dan? Did anyone except his friends in NY care about what he was going through?
As a person with social anxiety I appreciated the hints that Dan had it but it was mostly written to make Carson look good instead of give us insight into Dan, which felt like a missed opportunity. (Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez covers it nicely if anyone is interested in a book with a character that has it.)
Carson also had to work on her relationship with her parents, and most directly in the book her mother. This is the type of writing that I think LM does best and there were some introspective moments by Carson. There was a comment about wearing ugly sweaters in her conversation with Grace that made me laugh.
First act - great. Sibling’s best friend is one of my favorite tropes. Friends to lovers? I’ll eat that for breakfast. Forced proximity? Yes, please. And there’s great chemistry between two likable characters. Everything is setting up for another awesome book.
Second act - weirdly bland and slow. Nothing bad but nothing really happens either. Feels like they keep doing variations of the same scenario. At one point I wondered if my kindle hadn’t synced to the current page but no it was just more of a holding pattern.
Third act - annoying and rushed.
I liked Carson a lot and her personal growth throughout the book, especially the conversation she had with Grace.
I was 0% impressed with Grace. Could she have shown a little concern for Dan? Did anyone except his friends in NY care about what he was going through?
As a person with social anxiety I appreciated the hints that Dan had it but it was mostly written to make Carson look good instead of give us insight into Dan, which felt like a missed opportunity. (Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez covers it nicely if anyone is interested in a book with a character that has it.)
Carson also had to work on her relationship with her parents, and most directly in the book her mother. This is the type of writing that I think LM does best and there were some introspective moments by Carson. There was a comment about wearing ugly sweaters in her conversation with Grace that made me laugh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Just What I Needed🫶🏻
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Lauren Morill for trusting me with this AMAZING ARC!💜
Carson is finally putting herself out there.Dating Apps and all!Until her new roommate shows up,and is ready to ruin all men for her once and for all.
Dan has a secret.
No one knows he has no money and a federal government investigation under his name.
One drunken Conversation
Two people
Many feelings that are about to blow up
Welcome to Cardinal Springs!✨
I have previously read other works of Lauren Morill,& you can trust me when I say this woman NEVER disappoints,YET this time she even overcame herself because this book was MORE THAN PERFECT.However,let's get things from the beginning.
If the sun was a person it would be Carson.
The vibes this girl gives/the aura that has was one of its kind.Even,life is not always sunshine and rainbows for her.However,you can really see that she is not giving up at any chance.Life is just starting for her after all!
Dan's life on the other side is literally collapsing.After,being THE finance bro,having to leave everything behind and start a new life,while at the same time not knowing if you are going to end up in jail?THIS IS NOT FOR THE WEAK.
However,fate will play the biggest trick to both of them,leading them to fall terribly in love & be left with THE BEST chemistry you will read about -it is one of the times that the pages were not enough for me,I could really read more about them and not get bored even for a bit!
Even,what made me give that 5 star rating was not the romance.
During the story,we see what true friendship means,how self love can impact everything,and what it ACTUALLY is and so much more that is not romance centered.
Ending,from my point of view this is A MUST READ for 2026!
5⭐
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Lauren Morill for trusting me with this AMAZING ARC!💜
Carson is finally putting herself out there.Dating Apps and all!Until her new roommate shows up,and is ready to ruin all men for her once and for all.
Dan has a secret.
No one knows he has no money and a federal government investigation under his name.
One drunken Conversation
Two people
Many feelings that are about to blow up
Welcome to Cardinal Springs!✨
I have previously read other works of Lauren Morill,& you can trust me when I say this woman NEVER disappoints,YET this time she even overcame herself because this book was MORE THAN PERFECT.However,let's get things from the beginning.
If the sun was a person it would be Carson.
The vibes this girl gives/the aura that has was one of its kind.Even,life is not always sunshine and rainbows for her.However,you can really see that she is not giving up at any chance.Life is just starting for her after all!
Dan's life on the other side is literally collapsing.After,being THE finance bro,having to leave everything behind and start a new life,while at the same time not knowing if you are going to end up in jail?THIS IS NOT FOR THE WEAK.
However,fate will play the biggest trick to both of them,leading them to fall terribly in love & be left with THE BEST chemistry you will read about -it is one of the times that the pages were not enough for me,I could really read more about them and not get bored even for a bit!
Even,what made me give that 5 star rating was not the romance.
During the story,we see what true friendship means,how self love can impact everything,and what it ACTUALLY is and so much more that is not romance centered.
Ending,from my point of view this is A MUST READ for 2026!
5⭐
Review of advance copy
This was such a quick enjoyable read! Our FMC, Carson, is a sunshine filled kindergarten teacher, who grew up with restrictive and judgmental parents and wants to try to really find herself over summer break. Our MMC, Dan, is the quiet, broody, and private older brother of Carsons best friend. He finds himself as Carsons new roommate after he moves back from New York after losing his job, while being mysteriously investigated by the government. He's always felt like the outsider in his outgoing family, preferring privacy and quiet, and refuses to let them in on what's going on due to fear of dragging them into the mess.
Carson and Dan have been secretly attracted to each other for years, and Dan has kept his distance, telling himself that she deserves way better than him. However, that quickly beco rs more and more difficult to do after moving into her spare bedroom. After yet another particularly bad date, Carson agrees to let him show her what a "real" date is like, just for "pretend", of course. By the end of the night, their relationship is forever changed. Through each other, they find safety, comfort, and the ability to really thrive as themselves.
I loved the way that Dan was able to open up to Carson; I can really relate to having that one person who just SEES you. He was so deserving of safety and comfort even if he didn't think he was. And seeing Carson gain her confidence through the help of Roller Derby and the praising words of Dan was so fulfilling. I loved seeing her stand up for herself to her mother and set boundaries in place. To quote Dan, "you go, girl" 😂 Their HEA was so sweet.
Thank you to LoveNotes and the author for allowing me to read and review!
Carson and Dan have been secretly attracted to each other for years, and Dan has kept his distance, telling himself that she deserves way better than him. However, that quickly beco rs more and more difficult to do after moving into her spare bedroom. After yet another particularly bad date, Carson agrees to let him show her what a "real" date is like, just for "pretend", of course. By the end of the night, their relationship is forever changed. Through each other, they find safety, comfort, and the ability to really thrive as themselves.
I loved the way that Dan was able to open up to Carson; I can really relate to having that one person who just SEES you. He was so deserving of safety and comfort even if he didn't think he was. And seeing Carson gain her confidence through the help of Roller Derby and the praising words of Dan was so fulfilling. I loved seeing her stand up for herself to her mother and set boundaries in place. To quote Dan, "you go, girl" 😂 Their HEA was so sweet.
Thank you to LoveNotes and the author for allowing me to read and review!
Review of advance copy
Dan McBride has fled New York after a scandal at work. Now he's stuck in Cardinal Springs, his childhood town where everyone knows everyone's business and where his whole family still lives. Now, after some burst pipe problems at his temporary apartment, he has to live with his younger sister's best friend, Carson. Only problem, he's starting to have feelings for her. Carson isn't happy about the arrangement either. Dan isn't talkative and looks like a big grump. After he has lived with her for a time, she begins to notice that he's opening up to her and she likes what she finds underneath.
I loved seeing Carson and Dan together, it really shows how some people become extroverts around the right people. Well, of course not Carson, she is always a ray of sunshine. For her, the biggest achievement was seeing her start living her own life. I loved seeing her stand up for herself and start to do things she liked and not because other people said she migth like them.
Carson and Dan's relationship was so sweet. Dan, despite all his troubles in his personal life, has so much time for Carson. I would love to see him cheer her on on one of her derby matches. Seeing him supportive is such a good side on him, so much better than when he closes himself off. Although I get it, growing up in a big family but without a mother.
Thank you Lauren Morril and Lovenotes PR for the e-ARC. All thoughts are my own.
I loved seeing Carson and Dan together, it really shows how some people become extroverts around the right people. Well, of course not Carson, she is always a ray of sunshine. For her, the biggest achievement was seeing her start living her own life. I loved seeing her stand up for herself and start to do things she liked and not because other people said she migth like them.
Carson and Dan's relationship was so sweet. Dan, despite all his troubles in his personal life, has so much time for Carson. I would love to see him cheer her on on one of her derby matches. Seeing him supportive is such a good side on him, so much better than when he closes himself off. Although I get it, growing up in a big family but without a mother.
Thank you Lauren Morril and Lovenotes PR for the e-ARC. All thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Just What I Needed was such a sweet, cozy, and addictive small-town romance. Grumpy x Sunshine paired with best friend’s older brother is one of my favorite tropes, and this one absolutely delivered.
Dan and Carson have known each other forever, and the tension between them has been quietly simmering for years. Dan is broody, private, and carrying the weight of losing his job in New York while dealing with a mysterious government investigation. Underneath his guarded exterior, he’s anxious, artistic, and deeply soft—especially when it comes to Carson. I loved watching him slowly open up and finally feel seen.
Carson is pure sunshine. She’s bubbly, kind, and sheltered, but there’s so much growth in her journey. Seeing her gain confidence, set boundaries (especially with her parents), and carve out who she wants to be was incredibly satisfying. Her roller derby arc was such a fun and empowering touch.
Their fake-date-turned-very-real relationship was adorable, emotional, and swoony. The comfort, safety, and quiet devotion between them made this such a comforting read. The small-town vibes, found family moments, and tender romance all came together beautifully.
The only reason this isn’t a full 5 stars for me is that I wish we’d gotten a bit more depth around Dan’s job and the investigation—but overall, this was such a lovely, feel-good romance with a very sweet HEA.
Huge thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for the ARC! 💕
Dan and Carson have known each other forever, and the tension between them has been quietly simmering for years. Dan is broody, private, and carrying the weight of losing his job in New York while dealing with a mysterious government investigation. Underneath his guarded exterior, he’s anxious, artistic, and deeply soft—especially when it comes to Carson. I loved watching him slowly open up and finally feel seen.
Carson is pure sunshine. She’s bubbly, kind, and sheltered, but there’s so much growth in her journey. Seeing her gain confidence, set boundaries (especially with her parents), and carve out who she wants to be was incredibly satisfying. Her roller derby arc was such a fun and empowering touch.
Their fake-date-turned-very-real relationship was adorable, emotional, and swoony. The comfort, safety, and quiet devotion between them made this such a comforting read. The small-town vibes, found family moments, and tender romance all came together beautifully.
The only reason this isn’t a full 5 stars for me is that I wish we’d gotten a bit more depth around Dan’s job and the investigation—but overall, this was such a lovely, feel-good romance with a very sweet HEA.
Huge thank you to the author and Love Notes PR for the ARC! 💕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2026
Just what I needed was really what I needed to get through my week. It had me laid up on my bed, feet crossed behind me, as I smiled giggled and sighed.
Carson is an elementary school teacher who is just beginning to get the hang of living alone and defining her life how she deems fit, after growing up in a very conservative family with a mother who constantly had things to say about her body. She's single, experiencing terrible luck with her hinge matches, and crushing on her best friend's brother
Daniel is a finance guy whose life has been placed on hold during an investigation into fraud. He has been forced from New York, back to the small town he tried so hard to leave behind. Dan is broody, secretive with his family, and now has to live at Carson's house for a while because of a plumbing issue at his current residence.
This story, builds up pretty well, we see both the MMC and FMC dance around each other and finally into each others arms. It's a lovely balance of grumpy vs sunshine, with a sprinkle of small town gossip, family tension, a good amount of spice, and my favorite part, a lot of gentle yet solid positive affirmations and reassurance that helps Carson grow to be more confident in redefining her life and stepping into new things, as well as the peeling back of the layers that kept Daniel mysterious.
It is fun, witty, soft, and everything romance is. I'm going to read the first two books while I wait for the next one in this series.
Carson is an elementary school teacher who is just beginning to get the hang of living alone and defining her life how she deems fit, after growing up in a very conservative family with a mother who constantly had things to say about her body. She's single, experiencing terrible luck with her hinge matches, and crushing on her best friend's brother
Daniel is a finance guy whose life has been placed on hold during an investigation into fraud. He has been forced from New York, back to the small town he tried so hard to leave behind. Dan is broody, secretive with his family, and now has to live at Carson's house for a while because of a plumbing issue at his current residence.
This story, builds up pretty well, we see both the MMC and FMC dance around each other and finally into each others arms. It's a lovely balance of grumpy vs sunshine, with a sprinkle of small town gossip, family tension, a good amount of spice, and my favorite part, a lot of gentle yet solid positive affirmations and reassurance that helps Carson grow to be more confident in redefining her life and stepping into new things, as well as the peeling back of the layers that kept Daniel mysterious.
It is fun, witty, soft, and everything romance is. I'm going to read the first two books while I wait for the next one in this series.
January 22, 2026
This is the third book in the Cardinal Springs series.
It follows a GrumpyXSunshine, best friend's older brother romance.
Dan is a quiet, reserved man who recently lost his job and is dealing with legal troubles. Because of this, he's forced to return to his hometown, something he never planned on doing.
Carson is the complete opposite: bubbly, warm and kind. She's a teacher who has spent most of her life doing what her parents expect of her, even when it goes against what she truly wants.
They've known each other since childhood and never imagined they'd see each other in a romantic light. But when circumstances force them to become roommates, things slowly begin to change. What starts as a simple living arrangement turns into long conversations and genuine friendship.
I really loved how their bond developed naturally, from spending time together and being there for each other.
One of my favorite parts of the story was watching both characters grow. Dan was proven not guilty. Carson made new friends and finally started making decisions for herself instead of choosing what would please her parents.
Seeing her stand her ground and choose her own happiness was satisfying.
Overall, this was a comforting read with a mix of emotional growth, slow-burn romance and small-town charm.
Huge thanks to Lauren Morrill and LoveNotes Pr for the ARC, I'm sharing my honest review voluntarily.
It follows a GrumpyXSunshine, best friend's older brother romance.
Dan is a quiet, reserved man who recently lost his job and is dealing with legal troubles. Because of this, he's forced to return to his hometown, something he never planned on doing.
Carson is the complete opposite: bubbly, warm and kind. She's a teacher who has spent most of her life doing what her parents expect of her, even when it goes against what she truly wants.
They've known each other since childhood and never imagined they'd see each other in a romantic light. But when circumstances force them to become roommates, things slowly begin to change. What starts as a simple living arrangement turns into long conversations and genuine friendship.
I really loved how their bond developed naturally, from spending time together and being there for each other.
One of my favorite parts of the story was watching both characters grow. Dan was proven not guilty. Carson made new friends and finally started making decisions for herself instead of choosing what would please her parents.
Seeing her stand her ground and choose her own happiness was satisfying.
Overall, this was a comforting read with a mix of emotional growth, slow-burn romance and small-town charm.
Huge thanks to Lauren Morrill and LoveNotes Pr for the ARC, I'm sharing my honest review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dan and Carson
Tropes:
* Roommate romance
* Best friend’s brother
* Grumpy x sunshine
* Romcom
Triggers:
* C.rappy/controlling parents
* Body shaming
* Diet culture mentions
“You are the sunshiniest of days, and that man is a walking black cloud. It doesn’t exactly seem like a match made in heaven.”
This might be my favourite of the series so far…
Carson is a ray of sunshine, hiding behind her happiness and babbling. Dan is Grumpy (yep, with a capital G), under investigation, and thinks he’s no good for Carson.
It doesn’t take long. Carson… I loved her. She found her people and her place. I loved seeing her find her way.
Dan… where to start… grumpy… yes… sweet… yes… hot… yes… If only he didn’t have a prison stint hanging over his head.
In the beginning, I thought he was going to be an a-z. But nope, turns out, he’s just the quiet, broody one, who’s just a little different. (On that note, I wasn’t a fan of Grace in this one… glad Carson called her on it!) The art and new career were a surprise, but so much fun. Plus, the bedroom talk… hot!
This was such a cute, sweet, fun, sassy read. I absolutely enjoyed it, and cannot wait to see the next one fall!
A big thankyou to Lauren Morrill for the early copy and giving me the opportunity to provide my thoughts.
Tropes:
* Roommate romance
* Best friend’s brother
* Grumpy x sunshine
* Romcom
Triggers:
* C.rappy/controlling parents
* Body shaming
* Diet culture mentions
“You are the sunshiniest of days, and that man is a walking black cloud. It doesn’t exactly seem like a match made in heaven.”
This might be my favourite of the series so far…
Carson is a ray of sunshine, hiding behind her happiness and babbling. Dan is Grumpy (yep, with a capital G), under investigation, and thinks he’s no good for Carson.
It doesn’t take long. Carson… I loved her. She found her people and her place. I loved seeing her find her way.
Dan… where to start… grumpy… yes… sweet… yes… hot… yes… If only he didn’t have a prison stint hanging over his head.
In the beginning, I thought he was going to be an a-z. But nope, turns out, he’s just the quiet, broody one, who’s just a little different. (On that note, I wasn’t a fan of Grace in this one… glad Carson called her on it!) The art and new career were a surprise, but so much fun. Plus, the bedroom talk… hot!
This was such a cute, sweet, fun, sassy read. I absolutely enjoyed it, and cannot wait to see the next one fall!
A big thankyou to Lauren Morrill for the early copy and giving me the opportunity to provide my thoughts.
January 15, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Just What I Needed was such a sweet, cozy, and addictive small-town romance. Grumpy x Sunshine paired with best friend’s older brother is one of my favorite trope combos, and this book absolutely delivered.
Dan and Carson have known each other forever, and the tension between them has been quietly simmering for years. Dan is broody, private, and weighed down by secrets after losing his job in New York and dealing with a mysterious investigation. Underneath it all, he’s anxious, artistic, and incredibly soft - especially when it comes to Carson. Watching him slowly open up and finally feel seen was one of my favorite parts of the story.
Carson is pure sunshine. She’s bubbly, kind, and sheltered, but her growth throughout the book was so satisfying. Seeing her gain confidence, set boundaries with her parents, and carve out the life she wants (including her roller derby arc)was empowering and fun to read.
Their fake-date-turned-very-real relationship was adorable, swoony, and full of comfort. The small-town vibes, found family moments, and tender romance came together beautifully. The only reason this wasn’t a full five stars for me is that I wanted a bit more depth around Dan’s job and the investigation - but overall, this was a lovely, feel-good romance with a very sweet HEA.
Huge thank you to Lauren Morrill and Love Notes PR for the ARC 💕
Just What I Needed was such a sweet, cozy, and addictive small-town romance. Grumpy x Sunshine paired with best friend’s older brother is one of my favorite trope combos, and this book absolutely delivered.
Dan and Carson have known each other forever, and the tension between them has been quietly simmering for years. Dan is broody, private, and weighed down by secrets after losing his job in New York and dealing with a mysterious investigation. Underneath it all, he’s anxious, artistic, and incredibly soft - especially when it comes to Carson. Watching him slowly open up and finally feel seen was one of my favorite parts of the story.
Carson is pure sunshine. She’s bubbly, kind, and sheltered, but her growth throughout the book was so satisfying. Seeing her gain confidence, set boundaries with her parents, and carve out the life she wants (including her roller derby arc)was empowering and fun to read.
Their fake-date-turned-very-real relationship was adorable, swoony, and full of comfort. The small-town vibes, found family moments, and tender romance came together beautifully. The only reason this wasn’t a full five stars for me is that I wanted a bit more depth around Dan’s job and the investigation - but overall, this was a lovely, feel-good romance with a very sweet HEA.
Huge thank you to Lauren Morrill and Love Notes PR for the ARC 💕
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2026
This book takes the classic "brother's best friend" trope and adds a delightful layer of forced proximity that really lets the characters shine. The setup is perfect: Dan, the broody, quiet older brother of the heroine's best friend, is forced to move in with Carson after a pipe bursts in his temporary apartment.
The dynamic between them is the highlight of the story. Dan is clearly going through it—hiding out and stressing over a legal case back in NYC—which makes him closed off and grumpy. Carson, on the other hand, is vibrant and surprising. I loved that she wasn't just a one-dimensional "sunshine" character; the addition of her roller derby hobby added a great edge to her personality, and watching her learn to stand up to her mother gave her a satisfying emotional arc.
The "peeling back the layers" aspect of their relationship was well-paced. Seeing Dan realize that Carson isn't just his little sister's friend, but actually the light he needs in his dark moment, was genuinely sweet.
Even though this is part of a series and I hadn't read the previous books to know the full family history, it worked really well as a standalone. You don't need the backstory to appreciate the chemistry or Carson’s personal growth. If you like forced proximity with a side of roller derby action and emotional healing, this is a solid read.
The dynamic between them is the highlight of the story. Dan is clearly going through it—hiding out and stressing over a legal case back in NYC—which makes him closed off and grumpy. Carson, on the other hand, is vibrant and surprising. I loved that she wasn't just a one-dimensional "sunshine" character; the addition of her roller derby hobby added a great edge to her personality, and watching her learn to stand up to her mother gave her a satisfying emotional arc.
The "peeling back the layers" aspect of their relationship was well-paced. Seeing Dan realize that Carson isn't just his little sister's friend, but actually the light he needs in his dark moment, was genuinely sweet.
Even though this is part of a series and I hadn't read the previous books to know the full family history, it worked really well as a standalone. You don't need the backstory to appreciate the chemistry or Carson’s personal growth. If you like forced proximity with a side of roller derby action and emotional healing, this is a solid read.
January 8, 2026
“Carson is bad for me, and I have plenty of experience resisting things that are bad for me. And even if I did let myself indulge, let myself feast on her like the most decadent of cheat meals, then I’d have to confront the fact that as bad as she is for me, I’m way worse for her. She may be a decadent chocolate tart, but me? I’m poison.”
Just What I Needed | Lauren Morrill | Cardinal Springs #3
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5, 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
“Whenever Dan is around, I have exactly two modes: panicked silence and panicked word vomit. There is no in-between. I simply cannot be normal around him.”
Read this if you love: best friend’s older brother | grumpy x sunshine | small town | roommates | roller derby | secret tattoo
“Being with Carson, just existing in her presence, beside her, talking to her… I don’t know how to describe it. It’s a level of comfort I’ve never felt with anyone before.”
Ummm holy cow I love them! I love a good broody MMC and Dan is perfect. The way Carson brings him out of his shell and the way he gives her confidence is so swoony. I want more of them. I have loved this whole series and I’m glad there is still more to come.
Thank you @laurenmorrill and @lovenotes.pr for the eARC. I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
Just What I Needed | Lauren Morrill | Cardinal Springs #3
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5, 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
“Whenever Dan is around, I have exactly two modes: panicked silence and panicked word vomit. There is no in-between. I simply cannot be normal around him.”
Read this if you love: best friend’s older brother | grumpy x sunshine | small town | roommates | roller derby | secret tattoo
“Being with Carson, just existing in her presence, beside her, talking to her… I don’t know how to describe it. It’s a level of comfort I’ve never felt with anyone before.”
Ummm holy cow I love them! I love a good broody MMC and Dan is perfect. The way Carson brings him out of his shell and the way he gives her confidence is so swoony. I want more of them. I have loved this whole series and I’m glad there is still more to come.
Thank you @laurenmorrill and @lovenotes.pr for the eARC. I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
January 18, 2026
Thank you to Lauren Morrill and Lovenotes PR for this eARC. It was just what I needed!
I loved this book! I always enjoy a grumpy/sunshine, best-friends-brother romance! This one is about Dan and Carson, who have known each other their whole lives. Dan needs a place to stay and ends up becoming Carson’s roommate.
You are going to love Dan and Carson. Carson is sweet, bright, and bubbly. She has been sheltered her whole life, and when her parents give her their house when they move, it is the first time she has been on her own without their constant control over her life. It was amazing to see her grow throughout this book and to see how Dan helped her. Dan is quiet and secretive. He just lost his job and reputation in New York and is trying to get his life back. Something his brother says to him at the gym makes him think, and he starts to open up to Carson. With Carson, he finally feels like he belongs somewhere.
This was an addictive read. I did not want to put it down. In fact, I put off cleaning to finish this book. If you like small towns, skinny dipping, roommates-to-lovers, best-friends brother, brooding/bubbly, roller derby, and secret tattoos, then you will love this book! I definitely recommend this book!
I loved this book! I always enjoy a grumpy/sunshine, best-friends-brother romance! This one is about Dan and Carson, who have known each other their whole lives. Dan needs a place to stay and ends up becoming Carson’s roommate.
You are going to love Dan and Carson. Carson is sweet, bright, and bubbly. She has been sheltered her whole life, and when her parents give her their house when they move, it is the first time she has been on her own without their constant control over her life. It was amazing to see her grow throughout this book and to see how Dan helped her. Dan is quiet and secretive. He just lost his job and reputation in New York and is trying to get his life back. Something his brother says to him at the gym makes him think, and he starts to open up to Carson. With Carson, he finally feels like he belongs somewhere.
This was an addictive read. I did not want to put it down. In fact, I put off cleaning to finish this book. If you like small towns, skinny dipping, roommates-to-lovers, best-friends brother, brooding/bubbly, roller derby, and secret tattoos, then you will love this book! I definitely recommend this book!
January 22, 2026
Having read the previous two books in the Cardinal Springs series I was both looking forward to reading book 3, Just What I Needed, and also seeing if it could stand on its own.
It delivered on both points. I enjoyed it and I think it stands alone as its own book (although you should read them all and invest in the family.)
One of the things I love about Lauren Morrill’s books is the deep character development and the bingeable storyline. I expected to pick this book up and not put it down until it was over. However, I felt the storyline starting with Dan moving into Carson’s house was almost too fast for me. I was afraid a couple chapters into the book that the relationship was getting too fast, bypassing the character development I love, enough so that I actually put down the book for a day. Sometimes sequels just aren’t as good.
But then I picked it back up. And it found its own way and turned into the bingeable romantic read that I had expected. It was an enjoyable read and I wasn’t disappointed in the long run.
Also, I was very delighted by Sabrina Carpenter song quote in the book. So much fantastic dialogue!
Thanks to Love Notes PR and the Author for the ARC.
It delivered on both points. I enjoyed it and I think it stands alone as its own book (although you should read them all and invest in the family.)
One of the things I love about Lauren Morrill’s books is the deep character development and the bingeable storyline. I expected to pick this book up and not put it down until it was over. However, I felt the storyline starting with Dan moving into Carson’s house was almost too fast for me. I was afraid a couple chapters into the book that the relationship was getting too fast, bypassing the character development I love, enough so that I actually put down the book for a day. Sometimes sequels just aren’t as good.
But then I picked it back up. And it found its own way and turned into the bingeable romantic read that I had expected. It was an enjoyable read and I wasn’t disappointed in the long run.
Also, I was very delighted by Sabrina Carpenter song quote in the book. So much fantastic dialogue!
Thanks to Love Notes PR and the Author for the ARC.
January 10, 2026
Just What I Needed is a dual POV grumpy/sunshine romance. Kindergarten teacher Carson has always been a people pleaser, shrinking herself down to make her parents happy. She’s finally living on her own and ready to make some changes in her life. One of those changes is letting quiet, broody Dan, her best friend’s older brother, crash in her guest room when he needs a place to stay. Dan is being very secretive about the investigation that uprooted his life in NYC and brought him back to their small town, but Carson and her sunshine personality bring out a different side of him. Together the two are growing and changing, and hoping it doesn’t all come crashing down!
This book was so good! Both characters were incredibly relatable and I loved the two of them together! Carson trying to break free from toxic ideas shared in the spirit of “helpfulness” and figure out who she is outside of the plans others had for her was so well done. Dan’s anxiety over two years in limbo, his fear for the future, and his desire to hang on to something good was very moving. Plus roller derby! Tattoos! Skinny dipping! There was so much to love about this one! I can’t wait for the next in the series.
This book was so good! Both characters were incredibly relatable and I loved the two of them together! Carson trying to break free from toxic ideas shared in the spirit of “helpfulness” and figure out who she is outside of the plans others had for her was so well done. Dan’s anxiety over two years in limbo, his fear for the future, and his desire to hang on to something good was very moving. Plus roller derby! Tattoos! Skinny dipping! There was so much to love about this one! I can’t wait for the next in the series.
January 13, 2026
I had every intention of savoring this book. As a longtime fan of Lauren Morrill's (I went to a tour stop for her very first book many, many moons ago!), I knew I was in for a treat. Instead, I inhaled this book on dreary January Sunday and is it TOO cheesy to say it's just what I needed?
This third installment of the Cardinal Springs series hit so many boxes that were close to home for me personally. Teacher whose life always feels a bit unmoored during the summer? Check. Woman whose friends have found love and she's doesn't feel like she really fits into the pictures of their lives anymore? Check. Moving back to your hometown and having a loving but also complicated relationship with your parents? Check. The awful hellscape of online dating? Check. Fortunately our leading lady Carson has 2 things going for her that I do not at present - a newfound spark by joining a roller derby team, and an unexpected roommate in Dan, one of her best friend's older brothers who she has always had a warm spot for. This book simultaneously hit me in the feels, brought the heat, and had me wanting to get another tattoo and learn to lift weights. We've only got two McBride siblings left, and I can't wait to hear whose story will be next!
This third installment of the Cardinal Springs series hit so many boxes that were close to home for me personally. Teacher whose life always feels a bit unmoored during the summer? Check. Woman whose friends have found love and she's doesn't feel like she really fits into the pictures of their lives anymore? Check. Moving back to your hometown and having a loving but also complicated relationship with your parents? Check. The awful hellscape of online dating? Check. Fortunately our leading lady Carson has 2 things going for her that I do not at present - a newfound spark by joining a roller derby team, and an unexpected roommate in Dan, one of her best friend's older brothers who she has always had a warm spot for. This book simultaneously hit me in the feels, brought the heat, and had me wanting to get another tattoo and learn to lift weights. We've only got two McBride siblings left, and I can't wait to hear whose story will be next!
January 21, 2026
Dan & Carson ❤️
🛼25 year old kindergarten teacher Carson’s best friend’s brother needs a place to stay when the apartment he’s staying in is flooded. Carson lives in the house her parents gifted her when they won the lotto and retired to Florida, and she feels like she’s been towing her parents’ line her whole life.
🛼Quiet former investment guy Dan has retreated to his hometown after his world came crashing down. He’s tangled up in an SEC investigation, with his life in limbo.
🛼The attraction is mutual, but the criticism from Carson’s friend group is real. With Dan sorely in need of a friend, he opens up to Carson in a way he isn’t able to do with his family.
✏️This is the third book in a series, and while the stories are linked, they each feel so different. I loved the dual POV, the way Dan lives his life in the quiet moments, and how he’s forged a new path for himself that was so unexpected. Carson is strong, cheerful and really finding herself in her twenties. The combo of these two is a win for me ❤️
Read on Kindle Unlimited
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Connect with me: http://www.instagram.com/read.athon2021
🛼25 year old kindergarten teacher Carson’s best friend’s brother needs a place to stay when the apartment he’s staying in is flooded. Carson lives in the house her parents gifted her when they won the lotto and retired to Florida, and she feels like she’s been towing her parents’ line her whole life.
🛼Quiet former investment guy Dan has retreated to his hometown after his world came crashing down. He’s tangled up in an SEC investigation, with his life in limbo.
🛼The attraction is mutual, but the criticism from Carson’s friend group is real. With Dan sorely in need of a friend, he opens up to Carson in a way he isn’t able to do with his family.
✏️This is the third book in a series, and while the stories are linked, they each feel so different. I loved the dual POV, the way Dan lives his life in the quiet moments, and how he’s forged a new path for himself that was so unexpected. Carson is strong, cheerful and really finding herself in her twenties. The combo of these two is a win for me ❤️
Read on Kindle Unlimited
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Connect with me: http://www.instagram.com/read.athon2021
January 21, 2026
Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this book!
*What to expect when you read:*
Best Friend's Older Brother
️Grumpy x Sunshine
Roommates
Roller Derby
This is my first Roller Derby book and thanks to Lauren - I don’t feel as dumb anymore. I LOVE that you were able to explain a sport without making it weird. Some sports romances (looking at you Hockey Romance - which is my favroite sport btw) throw in the randomest explinations that just do not hit the story organically. Just What I Needed flows so well. The story comes about organically and didn’t feel rushed. I enjoyed the slow burn that lit up like a bonfire. I laughed so hard at some parts.
Just to quote a few of them “I collect pathetic men calling me a bitch like Pokemon cards” but also “ a guy with an uppercase body and a lowercase head”. Ma’am - how do you come up with these?! Now I feel like I have to go back and read the others in the series. Thanks for adding to my ever growing TBR - especially becasue I need to know more about the mom that just got out of prison. (Were they drunk the day she got out? and was it also raining? and did they drive a pick up to the station?)
*What to expect when you read:*
Best Friend's Older Brother
️Grumpy x Sunshine
Roommates
Roller Derby
This is my first Roller Derby book and thanks to Lauren - I don’t feel as dumb anymore. I LOVE that you were able to explain a sport without making it weird. Some sports romances (looking at you Hockey Romance - which is my favroite sport btw) throw in the randomest explinations that just do not hit the story organically. Just What I Needed flows so well. The story comes about organically and didn’t feel rushed. I enjoyed the slow burn that lit up like a bonfire. I laughed so hard at some parts.
Just to quote a few of them “I collect pathetic men calling me a bitch like Pokemon cards” but also “ a guy with an uppercase body and a lowercase head”. Ma’am - how do you come up with these?! Now I feel like I have to go back and read the others in the series. Thanks for adding to my ever growing TBR - especially becasue I need to know more about the mom that just got out of prison. (Were they drunk the day she got out? and was it also raining? and did they drive a pick up to the station?)
January 22, 2026
It is a story between Dan who's a reserved finance guy & Carson who's a sunshine kindergarten teacher (Though it comes with a twist!)
The author perfectly depicted a taboo that society implies upon a curvy girl how it affects her emotional state. I like the optimism of Carson even after the constant comments on her figure, diet & what she wears...She holds up herself strong, carefree & Thank God she doesn't feel any insecurity (it really fcks with your mind).
Dan being mysterious after creating chaos overseas... Returns to his town broke & with an ongoing case! He's in desperate need of a friend to whom he can open up & express himself for which he chooses Carson. Besides from all these...... Bro has got apadravya.... WHATTTT?? 😭 How do you function!!
Their chemistry is really wild!
I felt connected to the story when roller derby was mentioned as the author herself has played it. It was nice to imagine the story from the author's lens.
My favourite lines:
❤️“Carson, the only pretending I’m doing is pretending I don’t want you.”
❤️“Yes, Carson. I want. I want you”
❤️“I want my beautiful, confident girl to show me what she’s got.”
The author perfectly depicted a taboo that society implies upon a curvy girl how it affects her emotional state. I like the optimism of Carson even after the constant comments on her figure, diet & what she wears...She holds up herself strong, carefree & Thank God she doesn't feel any insecurity (it really fcks with your mind).
Dan being mysterious after creating chaos overseas... Returns to his town broke & with an ongoing case! He's in desperate need of a friend to whom he can open up & express himself for which he chooses Carson. Besides from all these...... Bro has got apadravya.... WHATTTT?? 😭 How do you function!!
Their chemistry is really wild!
I felt connected to the story when roller derby was mentioned as the author herself has played it. It was nice to imagine the story from the author's lens.
My favourite lines:
❤️“Carson, the only pretending I’m doing is pretending I don’t want you.”
❤️“Yes, Carson. I want. I want you”
❤️“I want my beautiful, confident girl to show me what she’s got.”
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
4.5 ⭐️
This book did not disappoint, I was really looking forward to reading this following the first two books, especially as we get to know a bit about the Carson & Dan in the background, but the chemistry & pull these too had! Oh wow, I just ate it up!
Carson was a badass FMC, I loved her coming out of her shell, finding who she is and learning to love herself! I loved that she made new friends as well as had her old friends who hyped her up!
Dan, well he is a the grump, but with a lot of his shoulders it’s understandable, I liked that we got to understand the background of what happened (I wish maybe we could have more details, but I’m just nosy!)
Favourite Quote: ‘I’ll be the luckiest motherfucker on the planet if you let me bask in your sunshine a little longer’ 😭😍
🤭 Best Friend's Older Brother
⛅️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🧡 Roommates
❌ No Strings Attached
🖤 Secret Tattoo
👔 Suit Daddy
If you want a wholesome small town romance with the perfect amount of spice. This is for you!
Thank you Lauren & Love Notes PR for this ARC.
This book did not disappoint, I was really looking forward to reading this following the first two books, especially as we get to know a bit about the Carson & Dan in the background, but the chemistry & pull these too had! Oh wow, I just ate it up!
Carson was a badass FMC, I loved her coming out of her shell, finding who she is and learning to love herself! I loved that she made new friends as well as had her old friends who hyped her up!
Dan, well he is a the grump, but with a lot of his shoulders it’s understandable, I liked that we got to understand the background of what happened (I wish maybe we could have more details, but I’m just nosy!)
Favourite Quote: ‘I’ll be the luckiest motherfucker on the planet if you let me bask in your sunshine a little longer’ 😭😍
🤭 Best Friend's Older Brother
⛅️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🧡 Roommates
❌ No Strings Attached
🖤 Secret Tattoo
👔 Suit Daddy
If you want a wholesome small town romance with the perfect amount of spice. This is for you!
Thank you Lauren & Love Notes PR for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨️arc review✨️
4,5🌟/5
Carson and Dan story was so cute!
I'm pretty sure that these two are made for each other's, they're the perfect match, the more I was reading the more I was sure that Carson was everything that Dan needed.
The chemistry was so strong you can clearly feel it I was blushing so much, the slow burn was so beautiful done, i really enjoyed the writing too. Carson is amazing i want to be her friend so bad, she's pure sunshine I'm so glad that she finally got to do what she wants but most importantly I'm so glad that she's finally out the shadows of her parents.
Dan is the complete opposite of Carson if she's sunshine he's definitely the grumpiest man ever but in his defense he was dealing with a lot of stuff, even with his grumpy side he stole my heart I'm glad that in the end everything sorted out.
Just what I needed its my first book from this author and definitely not the last can't wait to read more!
If you're looking for a cute, fast reading with a very entertaining story Just what I needed its the perfect book for you
4,5🌟/5
Carson and Dan story was so cute!
I'm pretty sure that these two are made for each other's, they're the perfect match, the more I was reading the more I was sure that Carson was everything that Dan needed.
The chemistry was so strong you can clearly feel it I was blushing so much, the slow burn was so beautiful done, i really enjoyed the writing too. Carson is amazing i want to be her friend so bad, she's pure sunshine I'm so glad that she finally got to do what she wants but most importantly I'm so glad that she's finally out the shadows of her parents.
Dan is the complete opposite of Carson if she's sunshine he's definitely the grumpiest man ever but in his defense he was dealing with a lot of stuff, even with his grumpy side he stole my heart I'm glad that in the end everything sorted out.
Just what I needed its my first book from this author and definitely not the last can't wait to read more!
If you're looking for a cute, fast reading with a very entertaining story Just what I needed its the perfect book for you
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the third book of the series, I was luckily enough to read early and it is easily my favorite one of them so far. We have Dan McBride who is completely misunderstood by everyone around him including his family (besides his dad, I’ll give credit where credit is due). By the end of the second book I was jumping out of my seat HAVING to know what was going on with Dan. He is a quiet and mysterious person, but only because he seems to get overstimulated pretty easily which I can understand with a big family. His sister’s best friend, Carson though…. She gets to finally be herself and find out who that is. Not only does she find herself in this book, but Dan’s relationship with her helps him become more comfortable in what his life becomes as well.
I loved all of these books, but for me each one was better than the last. I can’t wait to see which sibling is next and what their story will be!
Thank you to @Lauren Morrill and @Love Notes PR for the early copy - all opinions are my own.
I loved all of these books, but for me each one was better than the last. I can’t wait to see which sibling is next and what their story will be!
Thank you to @Lauren Morrill and @Love Notes PR for the early copy - all opinions are my own.
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