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Surprise Me Always
Not yet published
Expected 26 Jun 26A single weekend. A quiet connection. And a choice that changes everything.
Philip
I have built my life around certainty. As an editor in London, structure keeps me steady, from deadlines to solitary evenings spent reading with my hamster, BC, for company. Mark disrupts that balance the moment we meet. He is confident, tattooed, and far removed from the world I know. When he suggests a spontaneous drive to the coast, I say yes before fear has time to catch up. The weekend that follows is intimate and unexpectedly gentle, but I never forget it is only borrowed time. Our lives do not align, and wanting more feels like inviting disappointment.
Mark
Meeting Philip feels unexpectedly grounding, like everything else fades into the background. He is thoughtful, reserved, and clearly holding himself back. I sense his hesitation and respect it, even when it costs me. If he believes all we can share is a single weekend, then I will give him honesty, warmth and something real to remember. Sometimes a moment matters, even if it cannot last. And sometimes it is enough to know you showed up fully, even when the ending is uncertain.
When their paths cross again far from seaside mornings and quiet conversations, assumptions unravel and feelings refuse to stay buried. Philip must decide whether safety is worth more than possibility, while Mark has to choose whether opening his heart again is worth the risk. Some surprises ask to be taken. Others ask to be trusted.
Surprise Me Always is a standalone MM romance set in an interconnected world. It is written in British English and can be read independently.
Philip
I have built my life around certainty. As an editor in London, structure keeps me steady, from deadlines to solitary evenings spent reading with my hamster, BC, for company. Mark disrupts that balance the moment we meet. He is confident, tattooed, and far removed from the world I know. When he suggests a spontaneous drive to the coast, I say yes before fear has time to catch up. The weekend that follows is intimate and unexpectedly gentle, but I never forget it is only borrowed time. Our lives do not align, and wanting more feels like inviting disappointment.
Mark
Meeting Philip feels unexpectedly grounding, like everything else fades into the background. He is thoughtful, reserved, and clearly holding himself back. I sense his hesitation and respect it, even when it costs me. If he believes all we can share is a single weekend, then I will give him honesty, warmth and something real to remember. Sometimes a moment matters, even if it cannot last. And sometimes it is enough to know you showed up fully, even when the ending is uncertain.
When their paths cross again far from seaside mornings and quiet conversations, assumptions unravel and feelings refuse to stay buried. Philip must decide whether safety is worth more than possibility, while Mark has to choose whether opening his heart again is worth the risk. Some surprises ask to be taken. Others ask to be trusted.
Surprise Me Always is a standalone MM romance set in an interconnected world. It is written in British English and can be read independently.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 26, 2026
About the author
Dani Elias
47 books257 followersDani Elias writes swoony, steamy British romance about women in their forties who are very good at some parts of life and quietly unravelling in others. Her FMCs are relatable, flawed, funny, and fully human. Some are plus size, some are not, but all of them are centred, desired, and allowed to take up space in their own love stories.
Set mostly in small towns, with the occasional city romcom, Dani’s books are written in British English and focus on emotional connection, lived-in chemistry, and intimacy that deepens the relationship rather than dominating it. Her heroes are usually golden retriever cinnamon rolls with a side of nerdy dorkiness, because frankly, that’s the dream.
Based in Carlisle (UK), Dani writes romances for readers who want grown up love, real bodies, real feelings, and proof that happily ever after does not come with an age limit.
Set mostly in small towns, with the occasional city romcom, Dani’s books are written in British English and focus on emotional connection, lived-in chemistry, and intimacy that deepens the relationship rather than dominating it. Her heroes are usually golden retriever cinnamon rolls with a side of nerdy dorkiness, because frankly, that’s the dream.
Based in Carlisle (UK), Dani writes romances for readers who want grown up love, real bodies, real feelings, and proof that happily ever after does not come with an age limit.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 17, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I had a feeling after reading my first Dani Elias book that she would be an auto buy/read author for me (and apparently an auto ARC request too) and that instinct was spot on! Another 5 star read!
I’m having such a hard time putting into words just how much I loved this love story between Philip and Mark. Surprise Me Always was a quick read in the best way possible. I was immediately drawn in and obsessed. The writing style and voice of the book makes it so easy to fall into and consume. It had such intense chemistry, an adorably anxious hamster, and undeniable yearning. I cannot stress enough how beautifully written the connection between the MC’s was. Both characters broke themselves down into their raw, vulnerable selves for the other which resulted in a connection you could feel through the pages. You will laugh, you will cry, you will swoon!
Thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for a chance to read a this ARC!
🌶️🌶️
I had a feeling after reading my first Dani Elias book that she would be an auto buy/read author for me (and apparently an auto ARC request too) and that instinct was spot on! Another 5 star read!
I’m having such a hard time putting into words just how much I loved this love story between Philip and Mark. Surprise Me Always was a quick read in the best way possible. I was immediately drawn in and obsessed. The writing style and voice of the book makes it so easy to fall into and consume. It had such intense chemistry, an adorably anxious hamster, and undeniable yearning. I cannot stress enough how beautifully written the connection between the MC’s was. Both characters broke themselves down into their raw, vulnerable selves for the other which resulted in a connection you could feel through the pages. You will laugh, you will cry, you will swoon!
Thank you to the author and Happily Booked PR for a chance to read a this ARC!
June 18, 2026
First, thank you so much, Dani, for allowing me to ARC read this! I’m always grateful for the opportunity to read your books early, and this one was such a fun, entertaining read.
Secondly, I absolutely loved Mark and Phillip. Their connection was immediate, and honestly? I am such a sucker for instalove and insta-connection when it’s done well. From the moment they met, there was something special between them, and I loved watching their relationship develop. Sometimes you just know when two characters belong together, and that was exactly how I felt about these two. Their chemistry was sweet, genuine, and had me rooting for them from the very beginning.
But now…
Let’s talk about the real star of the book.
HEATH.
The hamster.
The absolute legend.
The tiny furry companion that completely stole every scene he appeared in.
I cannot even explain how much joy this little guy brought to the story. Every time Heath showed up, I knew I was about to laugh. The antics, the chaos, the personality packed into such a tiny creature—it was perfection. And don’t even get me started on the Instagram account. That alone had me grinning like an idiot.
The comedic moments involving Heath were some of my favorite parts of the entire book. He wasn’t just a pet in the background; he genuinely felt like part of the story, and honestly, I became way too invested in his adventures. The situations he managed to create, the reactions from the characters, and all the little moments centered around him made this book so much more entertaining.
I loved that while the romance between Mark and Phillip was sweet and heartfelt, there was also this constant layer of humor that kept the story feeling light and fun. Heath brought so much personality to the book, and I honestly think he deserves his own fan club.
Overall, this was such an enjoyable read. Mark and Phillip were adorable together, their instant connection worked perfectly for me, and Heath absolutely stole my heart. A sweet romance, plenty of laughs, and one unforgettable hamster—what more could I ask for? 🐹
Secondly, I absolutely loved Mark and Phillip. Their connection was immediate, and honestly? I am such a sucker for instalove and insta-connection when it’s done well. From the moment they met, there was something special between them, and I loved watching their relationship develop. Sometimes you just know when two characters belong together, and that was exactly how I felt about these two. Their chemistry was sweet, genuine, and had me rooting for them from the very beginning.
But now…
Let’s talk about the real star of the book.
HEATH.
The hamster.
The absolute legend.
The tiny furry companion that completely stole every scene he appeared in.
I cannot even explain how much joy this little guy brought to the story. Every time Heath showed up, I knew I was about to laugh. The antics, the chaos, the personality packed into such a tiny creature—it was perfection. And don’t even get me started on the Instagram account. That alone had me grinning like an idiot.
The comedic moments involving Heath were some of my favorite parts of the entire book. He wasn’t just a pet in the background; he genuinely felt like part of the story, and honestly, I became way too invested in his adventures. The situations he managed to create, the reactions from the characters, and all the little moments centered around him made this book so much more entertaining.
I loved that while the romance between Mark and Phillip was sweet and heartfelt, there was also this constant layer of humor that kept the story feeling light and fun. Heath brought so much personality to the book, and I honestly think he deserves his own fan club.
Overall, this was such an enjoyable read. Mark and Phillip were adorable together, their instant connection worked perfectly for me, and Heath absolutely stole my heart. A sweet romance, plenty of laughs, and one unforgettable hamster—what more could I ask for? 🐹
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story is about stepping out of your comfort zone and being brave enough to take a chance.
Both male are in their 40’s and haven’t find “the one”. When Phillip an editor makes a life changing decision to move to Toronto for his job. Phillip finds himself having one last goodbye dinner with his work colleagues when he catches the mysterious tattooed Mark’s eye from across the bar. When both man take a chance and decide to spend the weekend together not realizing that the other man may be their perfect match. This a story of right person but wrong time.
I found this story to be mostly lighthearted and humorous. It did have its sad heartfelt moments.
I feel Mark was the calm to Phillip storm. Mark was a just very chilled guy meanwhile Phillip was stressing about the what if’s.
Mark is a person who lives one day at a time and takes things as they come. Whereas Phillip is a person who is scared to step out of comfort zone.
Heath the Hamster stole the show with his hilarious series of misfortune at the wrong (or you could say perfect) time. Every time I read a Heath situation I couldn’t help but giggle.
I am so happy their story ended with a happy ending.
Also the Author Dedication at the start of the book is one of the best I have come across. I felt it was really impactful.
Tropes:
Hamster Dad
Right Person Wrong Time
Grumpy x Sunshine
Second Chances
This story is about stepping out of your comfort zone and being brave enough to take a chance.
Both male are in their 40’s and haven’t find “the one”. When Phillip an editor makes a life changing decision to move to Toronto for his job. Phillip finds himself having one last goodbye dinner with his work colleagues when he catches the mysterious tattooed Mark’s eye from across the bar. When both man take a chance and decide to spend the weekend together not realizing that the other man may be their perfect match. This a story of right person but wrong time.
I found this story to be mostly lighthearted and humorous. It did have its sad heartfelt moments.
I feel Mark was the calm to Phillip storm. Mark was a just very chilled guy meanwhile Phillip was stressing about the what if’s.
Mark is a person who lives one day at a time and takes things as they come. Whereas Phillip is a person who is scared to step out of comfort zone.
Heath the Hamster stole the show with his hilarious series of misfortune at the wrong (or you could say perfect) time. Every time I read a Heath situation I couldn’t help but giggle.
I am so happy their story ended with a happy ending.
Also the Author Dedication at the start of the book is one of the best I have come across. I felt it was really impactful.
Tropes:
Hamster Dad
Right Person Wrong Time
Grumpy x Sunshine
Second Chances
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was an ARC read, from the author through HappilyBooked
I loved this sweet story of two 40 plus men finding each other in an emptying bar, pretty much after theyve both decided that single was the way of their fates.
What was really supposed to be a one night stand, turned into true love, that nearly doesn't happen! with a hamster to keep things on the lighter side!
I absolutely love Dani's stories, she puts so much affection into each of her main characters, and gives the reader a look at just who each character truly is inside.
Heath the hamster totally stole the show! We really have three leading men in this book, and that's great. Its awesome that Dani gives us the full family experience in her books, pets and all.
I've stolen Dani's words from her Email she sent out when ARC's were released. This says everything that needs to be said about this story.
As always, any steam in my books is there to serve the story and the characters rather than exist for its own sake. My authenticity reader and I agreed that, compared to some of the more popular MM romances out there, this probably falls into the "soft spice" category. At its heart, this is a story about trust, vulnerability, family, friendship, and finding the courage to choose love, even when it feels risky.
I loved this sweet story of two 40 plus men finding each other in an emptying bar, pretty much after theyve both decided that single was the way of their fates.
What was really supposed to be a one night stand, turned into true love, that nearly doesn't happen! with a hamster to keep things on the lighter side!
I absolutely love Dani's stories, she puts so much affection into each of her main characters, and gives the reader a look at just who each character truly is inside.
Heath the hamster totally stole the show! We really have three leading men in this book, and that's great. Its awesome that Dani gives us the full family experience in her books, pets and all.
I've stolen Dani's words from her Email she sent out when ARC's were released. This says everything that needs to be said about this story.
As always, any steam in my books is there to serve the story and the characters rather than exist for its own sake. My authenticity reader and I agreed that, compared to some of the more popular MM romances out there, this probably falls into the "soft spice" category. At its heart, this is a story about trust, vulnerability, family, friendship, and finding the courage to choose love, even when it feels risky.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Surprise Me Always is a warm, emotional MM romance that proves some of the best connections happen when we least expect them.
What I enjoyed most was how authentic their connection felt. The story takes its time developing their relationship, allowing readers to see why these two men are drawn to one another. Philip’s anxiety about stepping outside his comfort zone felt realistic, while Mark’s patience and understanding made him incredibly easy to root for. Their emotional growth was just as important as the romance itself.
The writing has a gentle, comforting quality that perfectly suits the story. The coastal setting added charm, and the dual perspectives provided insight into both characters’ fears, hopes, and vulnerabilities. I also appreciated that the conflict remained grounded in personal insecurities and life circumstances rather than unnecessary misunderstandings.
Surprise Me Always is a sweet, character-driven romance filled with tenderness, self-discovery, and hope. If you enjoy opposites-attract romances, emotional vulnerability, and relationships that develop through genuine connection, this is definitely worth picking up.
What I enjoyed most was how authentic their connection felt. The story takes its time developing their relationship, allowing readers to see why these two men are drawn to one another. Philip’s anxiety about stepping outside his comfort zone felt realistic, while Mark’s patience and understanding made him incredibly easy to root for. Their emotional growth was just as important as the romance itself.
The writing has a gentle, comforting quality that perfectly suits the story. The coastal setting added charm, and the dual perspectives provided insight into both characters’ fears, hopes, and vulnerabilities. I also appreciated that the conflict remained grounded in personal insecurities and life circumstances rather than unnecessary misunderstandings.
Surprise Me Always is a sweet, character-driven romance filled with tenderness, self-discovery, and hope. If you enjoy opposites-attract romances, emotional vulnerability, and relationships that develop through genuine connection, this is definitely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Surprise me always
What a beautiful story of finally stepping out of what is safe and going for what scares you.
Philip is about to leave England for Toronto to start a new safe life. But when he locks eyes contact with the stunning bald, tattooed man in the mirror behind the bar of the pub things shift.
It was only suppose to be temporary, it was only suppose to be for the weekend...
Mark fell for Phillip at first sight and he is such a calm force of nature that seems to calms Phillip, swoon ... and when he starts Heath's Instagram , sigh ....
Philip represents those of us that is scared to go after what we really want, scared to to break away from what is safe. But that weekend with Philip gives us a glimpse of what is beneath the controlled surface he puts up.
Absolutely loved.... I mean come on how can you not love a man who agrees to take care of an anxious hamster after one weekend.
Speaking of said hamster, Heath was the actual star of this book!!!
Go follow Heath .....https://www.instagram.com/hamsterofth...
What a beautiful story of finally stepping out of what is safe and going for what scares you.
Philip is about to leave England for Toronto to start a new safe life. But when he locks eyes contact with the stunning bald, tattooed man in the mirror behind the bar of the pub things shift.
It was only suppose to be temporary, it was only suppose to be for the weekend...
Mark fell for Phillip at first sight and he is such a calm force of nature that seems to calms Phillip, swoon ... and when he starts Heath's Instagram , sigh ....
Philip represents those of us that is scared to go after what we really want, scared to to break away from what is safe. But that weekend with Philip gives us a glimpse of what is beneath the controlled surface he puts up.
Absolutely loved.... I mean come on how can you not love a man who agrees to take care of an anxious hamster after one weekend.
Speaking of said hamster, Heath was the actual star of this book!!!
Go follow Heath .....https://www.instagram.com/hamsterofth...
Review of advance copy received from Author
We're finally getting the story of how Mark and Philip get their HEA. If you've read Dani Elias before, you'll have met these two in a few of her other books, it's still a standalone so don't worry you need to read this first, but I do recommend a read because this one is beautiful! Mark is quietly swoony in a gentle way you don't expect from the tattooed baldy and Philip is quintessentially British, and needs no apologies for that. After one intensive weekend together, they part ways and continents and hold back on their feelings... of the feelings - pining, yearning and all the longing. I will say, for a character that doesn't speak a word during the whole book, Heath is actually one of the main stars here, he is the pillar of support for Mark, and lets face it, we'd all love to snuggle up into his shirt pocket too. Loved how they reunited and Philip pulled his socks up to face his feelings, I could read Mark and Philips story forever - beautifully written.
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
Review of advance copy
ARC Review:
“Just don’t make safe choices and call them brave ones.”
Tropes:
MM Romance | Second Chance | Right Person, Wrong Time | Forced Proximity
This story follows Philip and Mark, two men who share an unexpected, deeply connected weekend with a strict expiration date. Philip has his entire life safely mapped out and leaves to pursue the sensible choice, even if it means walking away from what could have been everything. But Mark sees right through his walls. When distance only makes their connection sharper and harder to ignore, they are forced to face whether some risks are impossible to walk away from twice.
This was a beautiful love story, so swoony, and I enjoyed this so much I was making heart hands by the end. If you love deeply emotional contemporary romance, you need to add this to your TBR immediately!
A huge thank you to Happily Booked PR and the author for the ARC.
“Just don’t make safe choices and call them brave ones.”
Tropes:
MM Romance | Second Chance | Right Person, Wrong Time | Forced Proximity
This story follows Philip and Mark, two men who share an unexpected, deeply connected weekend with a strict expiration date. Philip has his entire life safely mapped out and leaves to pursue the sensible choice, even if it means walking away from what could have been everything. But Mark sees right through his walls. When distance only makes their connection sharper and harder to ignore, they are forced to face whether some risks are impossible to walk away from twice.
This was a beautiful love story, so swoony, and I enjoyed this so much I was making heart hands by the end. If you love deeply emotional contemporary romance, you need to add this to your TBR immediately!
A huge thank you to Happily Booked PR and the author for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As usual this was another 5 star read for me, and might dare I say it might have pushed in to one of my top three favorites. I absolutely loved Phillip and Mark, the chemistry they had in such a short time is what people dream of for years. They are absolute adorable together, I have to admit I am not a big MM fan and for this book to take one of the top three pics of hers so far should tell you something. I am absolutely in love too with the fact that in everybook there is an emotion support pet haha. This book is no different and Heath could have literally been the main character... He has some of the same issues as me, I am totally embarressed to admit that, but I feel f0r the tiny bugger! As usual i would recommend this book to anyone, any of her books I would recommend but this one is especially sweet and tender and you get to see a whole another side of men that you rarely see. Go check This out you wont regret it!
June 19, 2026
I did not expect tears to be shed and to be so engrossed in a book so freaking fast, like it pulled me in hook line and sinker. Honestly, I don’t know how to describe Philip and Mark, all I can say is that they are freaking cute and so perfect for each other. It was only supposed to be a wekkend hookup but turned out to be so much more. From that first locking of eyes with each other they were well and truly F’d. I loved how not much was said between them, no long conversations, but they still read each other well to where the other didn’t really need to say anything. That connection was everything that they could’ve asked for, but it they just met at the wrong time, because when the time came Mark had tolet Philip go. Kinda like the saying of ‘If it was meant to be it will be” or “If you love somebody, let them go. For if they return, they were always yours. If they don’t, they never were.” And in the end they were meant for each other.
June 21, 2026
Would you start an IG account for your pet? Mark would if it meant staying connected to the guy he met ONE weekend and then moved out of country 😭❤️
“Just don’t make safe choices, call them brave ones”
Phillip has 5 days left in London before relocating to Toronto when Mark walks into his life. One epic weekend later, they’re bonded for life.
While Phillip is across the ocean playing the denial game. Mark is in London heart broken, trying to avoid texting Phillip and managing Heath, the world's most anxious hamster.
Months of distance, yearning, and a social media-savvy pet for the truth to finally come out. You need to add this to your TBR like right now!! This has all the right-person-wrong-time angst you could ever want!
Tropes:
💫Hamster dad
💫Right person wrong time
💫Grumpy x sunshine
💫Second chance
💫MM
💫Forced proximity
💫One weekend
💫Insta-lust
QOTD: do you believe in love at first sight? what’s your favorite love at first sight book?
“Just don’t make safe choices, call them brave ones”
Phillip has 5 days left in London before relocating to Toronto when Mark walks into his life. One epic weekend later, they’re bonded for life.
While Phillip is across the ocean playing the denial game. Mark is in London heart broken, trying to avoid texting Phillip and managing Heath, the world's most anxious hamster.
Months of distance, yearning, and a social media-savvy pet for the truth to finally come out. You need to add this to your TBR like right now!! This has all the right-person-wrong-time angst you could ever want!
Tropes:
💫Hamster dad
💫Right person wrong time
💫Grumpy x sunshine
💫Second chance
💫MM
💫Forced proximity
💫One weekend
💫Insta-lust
QOTD: do you believe in love at first sight? what’s your favorite love at first sight book?
Review of advance copy
This story follows Philip and Mark, whose brief weekend together leaves a much bigger impact than either of them expected. Philip has always chosen the safe, sensible path, even when it means walking away from something he truly wants. Years later, their connection is still impossible to ignore, and they're forced to confront whether they made the right choice the first time around.
I really enjoyed this one. The emotional connection between Philip and Mark felt genuine, and the right person, wrong time aspect added just the right amount of heartbreak and longing. Watching them navigate old feelings and unfinished business kept me invested throughout the story.
If you enjoy emotional second-chance romances with plenty of yearning, this is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to Happily Booked PR and the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this one. The emotional connection between Philip and Mark felt genuine, and the right person, wrong time aspect added just the right amount of heartbreak and longing. Watching them navigate old feelings and unfinished business kept me invested throughout the story.
If you enjoy emotional second-chance romances with plenty of yearning, this is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you to Happily Booked PR and the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy
I've read a couple of Dani's books previously. Those were cute and funny mf romances. This one though just about broke me.
This is about Phillip and Mark who meet at a pub basically at Phillip's going away party by his co-workers. The single weekend they spend together basically changes both their lives.
Phillip moves to Toronto. Mark keeps Heath the Hamster. Hilarities commence. The yearning will leave you gasping, but thankfully not for too long.
To find a love like Phillip and Mark should be a goal in life. I thoroughly enjoyed the heck out of this book and highly recommend it to any MM romance readers. The characters were solid and the story line was well-written. The chemistry between Phillip and Mark was sweet and genuine.
Heath the Hamster definitely is a show stealer. You have to read this just for him.
This is about Phillip and Mark who meet at a pub basically at Phillip's going away party by his co-workers. The single weekend they spend together basically changes both their lives.
Phillip moves to Toronto. Mark keeps Heath the Hamster. Hilarities commence. The yearning will leave you gasping, but thankfully not for too long.
To find a love like Phillip and Mark should be a goal in life. I thoroughly enjoyed the heck out of this book and highly recommend it to any MM romance readers. The characters were solid and the story line was well-written. The chemistry between Phillip and Mark was sweet and genuine.
Heath the Hamster definitely is a show stealer. You have to read this just for him.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was not expecting to like this story as much as I did. It’s not that I thought it would be bad but it’s just different from what I normally read. I very much did enjoy this story. It started out a bit slow but then it picks up. You can feel the instant connection that Mark has even though he has no idea who Philip is. Once they start interacting you can see how differently similar they are. Mark is very mellow while Philip can be mellow but sometime is more tense. Then there is Heath. Silly intestinally challenged hamster. In my opinion he is very much a third main character and I’m here for it. Overall I enjoyed seeing the evolution of Mark and Philip’s connection. It didn’t go as I expected and in a good way. The story is pretty short but worth the read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Authors who take character development to another level. Writers who make you see a character beyond their dialogue and can make you feel the between the lines.
There are a few authors I have found that can do that, especially with romance, fantasy and "real life" genres. And Dani Elias is one of them.
This is my third novel by Dani Elias and it was a continuation of her giving life to characters that don't often get to shine. 40+, regular folk, and gay.
What I surmised was the undertone of novel: love is a frightening leap and the joy of it is found when you find someone that makes the everyday ordinary/normal, beautiful. It's being seen for who you are and loved, celebrated and cared for in all of it.
There are a few authors I have found that can do that, especially with romance, fantasy and "real life" genres. And Dani Elias is one of them.
This is my third novel by Dani Elias and it was a continuation of her giving life to characters that don't often get to shine. 40+, regular folk, and gay.
What I surmised was the undertone of novel: love is a frightening leap and the joy of it is found when you find someone that makes the everyday ordinary/normal, beautiful. It's being seen for who you are and loved, celebrated and cared for in all of it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is second in the series, but due to the timeline, it can be read as a standalone.
I'd advise not reading this while hormonal.... apparently, it makes you ball like a baby and have your entire family questioning your sanity. It's not deeply sad. It just hits in the feels in a way I was not expecting for a Sunday morning.
As always, it was an absolutely amazing story, beautiful writing, and heart-felt characters. I can not fault a single thing in this book and need more stars. Quick paced, but not too fast and just an amazing version of instant love, and the battle to accept it for what it is.
I'd advise not reading this while hormonal.... apparently, it makes you ball like a baby and have your entire family questioning your sanity. It's not deeply sad. It just hits in the feels in a way I was not expecting for a Sunday morning.
As always, it was an absolutely amazing story, beautiful writing, and heart-felt characters. I can not fault a single thing in this book and need more stars. Quick paced, but not too fast and just an amazing version of instant love, and the battle to accept it for what it is.
Review of advance copy received from Author
In the beginning everything happens so fast but it feels right and doesn't feel too rushed from a storyline perspective. From the second Philip and mark meet you know it's going to be a good story and slightly different to others by Dani. There are so many funny moments that made me laugh out loud as well as some really sad moments ( leaving Heath with Mark being a big one). In the subject of Heath... Everyone needs a Hampstead Heath in their lives! The story feels more sensitive and relaxed.
Almost from the beginning I didn't want Philip to leave and kept wanting him to change his mind about the move to Toronto.
Almost from the beginning I didn't want Philip to leave and kept wanting him to change his mind about the move to Toronto.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Surprise Me Always has everything and more in a great book. It has spontaneity, a hamster and swoon worthy romance that is sure to tug at your heart strings.
I really loved this book and I could not put it down. Both MCs are so relatable and you will connect with both of them in different ways.
I also loved the humor brought on by a hamster yes a hamster. This rodent provides the best funny moments and I was here for it.
I am a firm believer that people are supposed to enter your life at the right or wrong moments and this is the perfect example of this.
Thank you to Dani Elias and Happily Booked PR for the review copy in exchange for my honest review.
I really loved this book and I could not put it down. Both MCs are so relatable and you will connect with both of them in different ways.
I also loved the humor brought on by a hamster yes a hamster. This rodent provides the best funny moments and I was here for it.
I am a firm believer that people are supposed to enter your life at the right or wrong moments and this is the perfect example of this.
Thank you to Dani Elias and Happily Booked PR for the review copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I flew through this one, like quick! Dani's writing style makes reading her books so easy and straightforward. I was looking forward to this one because I love MM romance. I loved Mark & Philip. One chance night at a pub, one weekend with an expiration date, and lots of yearning & messages! Let's not forget Heath, the adorable hamster who is riddled with anxiety. Absolute perfection. The only flaw is I wanted more. I would have loved to had more time with Mark & Philip and to really see and explore their relationship. Besides that I really enjoyed this read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have loved every single book I've read by Dani and this is no exception.
This being her first MM romance I wasn't sure what to expect but she wrote this with such care that I couldn't help but fall for these guys and cheer them on in hopes thst they would work things out. Throw in a cute little emotionally overwrought hamster and I was done for.
No spoilers...just please read the book because I know you'll be cheering them on as well!
This being her first MM romance I wasn't sure what to expect but she wrote this with such care that I couldn't help but fall for these guys and cheer them on in hopes thst they would work things out. Throw in a cute little emotionally overwrought hamster and I was done for.
No spoilers...just please read the book because I know you'll be cheering them on as well!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ho my hot hamster dad. This is such a pure love that hits so perfectly. Eyes locking in a bar becomes the start of a one amazing weekend that will change these two. Saddly an international move is keeping these two appart. The love is so easy and perfect and filled with them actually showing up without being asked. Its the love we all crave... with a side of anxious hamster mayhem. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this story so much. I usually struggle with instant connections but Dani wrote Philip and Mark's story so beautifully and their connection shone through the pages.
Love, family, friends and banter are all provided in abundance and leave you with a happily ever after that felt like the characters fully deserved it.
However the star of the show has to go to Heath the Hamster. A very small rodent who plays a major part not only for Philip and Mark, but for the reader too.
Love, family, friends and banter are all provided in abundance and leave you with a happily ever after that felt like the characters fully deserved it.
However the star of the show has to go to Heath the Hamster. A very small rodent who plays a major part not only for Philip and Mark, but for the reader too.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4⭐3🌶️ ARC Dual POV First Person 445pgs
Claimed on Sight series, book #2
Philip and Mark
These two had such a great connection, not just physically, but also emotionally. I love British humor, the deadpan delivery, the sarcasm, the self depreciation. And even tho I knew how it'll end, it was still a bit stressful there.
“People call men good for the bare minimum. He doesn’t cheat. He doesn’t hit you. He goes to work. He pays bills. Like that’s romance. Like that’s character.”
Claimed on Sight series, book #2
Philip and Mark
These two had such a great connection, not just physically, but also emotionally. I love British humor, the deadpan delivery, the sarcasm, the self depreciation. And even tho I knew how it'll end, it was still a bit stressful there.
“People call men good for the bare minimum. He doesn’t cheat. He doesn’t hit you. He goes to work. He pays bills. Like that’s romance. Like that’s character.”
June 14, 2026
Thank you to Happily Booked PR for a free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I’m in love with Philip and Mark’s love. So genuine, so authentic. The dialogue between these two was equal parts hilarious and heartfelt. Don’t be fooled by a real human on the cover (which sometimes gives me the icks - IYKYK), this was a gorgeous love story and I can’t recommend it enough.
I’m in love with Philip and Mark’s love. So genuine, so authentic. The dialogue between these two was equal parts hilarious and heartfelt. Don’t be fooled by a real human on the cover (which sometimes gives me the icks - IYKYK), this was a gorgeous love story and I can’t recommend it enough.
June 16, 2026
This is a beautiful story about how love finds us when we least expect it to. Sometimes you just know when something is right, no matter how hard you try to fight it. Phillip and Mark have a sweet love. They truly see each other for who they are. Hamster Heath is adorable, panic attacks and all!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Phillip and Mark are the most fantastic couple I've read this year. They are honest and authentic even if they're a bit scared about how easy their "weekend" felt. Heath is the best sidekick and hamster ever!!! I found myself lost in their story... I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
Thank you Dani Elias and Happily Booked for the advanced copy - the review is mine.
Thank you Dani Elias and Happily Booked for the advanced copy - the review is mine.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
This is a sweet, a little steamy, story of MM in their early 40s finding each other. The emotional connection is fantastic as is the banter and then throw a dramatic hamster in the mix. I was pulled into the story from the start and could not put it down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A sweet and aching MM romance. Both MCs are the most tender characters in the best way. The way they love each other is so…normal. So quiet. It’s adorable.
If you want a sweet, comforting rom-com but still want your spice, this one is for you.
If you want a sweet, comforting rom-com but still want your spice, this one is for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I wasn't expecting to get this book early, but it was really good. Very sweet and tender. I enjoyed this one a lot more that l than I thought I would.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love love loved Phillip and mark so much! Their story was so beautiful. So filled with love and care. I do think heath was the star of the show though and I was here for it!
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