Entanglement: The Landlord Series · Book One

by L.L. Loveland

She promised forever to one man.
She never expected her heart to want another.

She grew up believing her faith would protect her.
She thought she understood the difference between right and wrong.

Her marriage was supposed to be forever. Then she met Spencer Hawthorne-her landlord, who shares her faith and sees parts of her she didn't know we're hidden deep within. He feels like the answer to her prayers… except he already belongs to someone else.

Dominic, her husband, should be the one she clings to.
Instead his recklessness and secrets have fractured her trust. The vows she made bind her to him, but her heart knows she's already slipping away.

Two men. Two choices. Two lives can't both be hers.
One man will test her faith.
The other may cost her everything.

For Sarah, love feels like stepping into sin.
Loyalty feels like living in a cage she can't escape.
And the choice she makes leaves her questioning her own judgment.

379 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 3, 2026

About the author

L.L. Loveland is a Utah-based author who writes emotionally layered romantic suspense about complicated love, moral tension, and the moments that change us forever.

Her debut, The Landlord Series, begins with Entanglement - an emotionally charged story of forbidden connection, longing, guilt, and emotional transformation.

Drawing on her deep familiarity with Utah life and culture, her series follows characters navigating quiet expectations, internal conflict, and the emotional cost of choosing differently.

When she isn't writing, L.L. can usually be found rescuing animals, spending time in the garden, watching birds with her husband, homeschooling her three boys, or traveling - drawn to the moments where her life is the most fulfilled.

Reviews

[Autumn Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've never dabbled in the romance novels that had a focus on religion so this was new for me. I think its important when trying to understand how the FMC and MMC behave and react.

I went back and forth on this book being a 3.5 to 4 star read for me. It ended as a 4 star though because of how it kept me invested throughout (especially since its not a typical genre) What I can say is the author writes really well, and definitely keeps you invested in the story. Part of me wonders if there were some plot holes because of small time jumps, but I believe it was necessary to keep the story moving forward.

During some of the book I wanted to yell at the FMC to wake the hell up, but you cant help but want her to have everything wrapped in a bow at the end.

There were pieces throughout the book that keep you guessing and wanting to get the answers.

The ending was NOT how I expected it to go, but I really love an ending where your jaw drops.

Cant wait for the next book!

As for spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶

[Elise Allred · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a dramatic, fast-paced story about a woman caught between two men—her husband and another man who’s married to someone else. There are a lot of twists and emotional moments that keep things interesting and make it hard to put the book down. The relationships feel messy and real, and the tension builds with every choice she makes. Just when you think you know how it’s going to end things shake up, leaving you wanting more and excited to ready the next book.

[Jessica Christensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was talking with the author about this book, I knew right off that I was already interested in reading it.
When I received a copy to review, I was hooked from the very start.
Having been born and raised in Utah, I know the culture from this book and it was easy to relate to.
This book contains a variety of emotions, as well as many supenseful twists and turns.
The end of the book definitely leaves you wanting more. Now I can't wait to read the 2nd book.

[Audrey Rine · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS BOOK!!!!

The character development is unparalleled! I literally saw a lot of myself in the main character. To be wanted, loved, and to be seen. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but this book is an absolute MUST read!

Ms. Loveland’s writing style is absolutely lyrical but yet it’s accessible, which made it impossible to put down!

The twists and turns and it even had me on an emotional rollercoaster ride through parts because the characters were so real and were very relatable.

The ending, just wow! There were twists you think you have figured out, but it turns another direction!

Am I being a bit dramatic? Perhaps. Was this book everything (and more) to the point that it felt life-altering? Absolutely!

This book is one of my new favorites and I can’t wait to read the entire series!! Thank you!

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an emotional rollercoaster full of twists and turns. Sarah is caught between two men, her husband and landlord. This was an emotional and tension filled journey. The characters and story were well thought out.

[Candie Taylor Maddox · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a strong FMC this is the book for you. I flew through the ARC for Entanglement! This is not your normal MMC/MFC dynamic it’s full of forbidden pleasures and a splash of intense “who did it”!

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was hard to put down! It was easy to get swept up into the whirlwind romance between Spencer and Sarah. This book is full of twists, turns, and spice! I can't wait for the second book!

[Rhiannan Carson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the writing style and the overall storyline. personally I think the fmc got what she deserved. I do wish there was more backstory or some things from doms point of view.

[Brooke Ferguson · Rating 3 out of 5]

it's a story about a woman who is not happy with her marriage. she seeks out another man. it has lots of passion and suspense

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I received an arc for this book I was not prepared for the fast burn, super spicy, emotional up and down ride that I got but it was worth it! And the author is SO nice too!

[Julia Prater · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely devoured this book!! Great characters, a little dash of suspense and plenty of spice! The closer I got to the ending I was like ..... ummmmm is this going to leave on a heart wrenching ending or something crazy is going to happen?! Was not expecting that ending! Left me wanting the 2nd book yesterday for sure!

[Sue Fedash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hot, steamy, and packed with suspense. Every chapter pulled me in deeper and that finale… wow. I need book two immediately!

[Denise Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is not my normal read. And I normally can get so pulled into a story that many of the minor things get ignored. But this story was lacking a lot for me. I actually felt like so much was off that I took notes. This is not something I do.

Some of the spicy scenes have pieces in them that confused me. I just mean it would seem like sex had started from how things were stated but then a few sentences later it actually begins.

The FMC is very young. Apparently 18 or 19. But somehow she has had this grooming business for years. Doesn’t make sense.

I know it was explained why she calls her mom Linda but it’s weird and I don’t understand the need for that. It was unnecessary and a little confusing.

When the FMC had sex with her husband in the story, it does not seem like they are having sex. It seemed like she was pleasuring him. But as the situation carries on, it becomes unclear at what point but suddenly they are having sex. It was confusing.

I feel like the FMC being so young is hard to wrap my head around most of the things in the book. Maybe her age is what makes her naivety more believable. Because the MMC does not seem trustworthy in my opinion.

Some chapters say when in the timeline we are and others don’t.

Some description of things seems misplaced. For instance we see an interaction with her best friend, Maya early on, a few chapters later Maya comes around and suddenly she is more descriptive about her friend and their relationship. It seems like that should have been explained when the friend was introduced in the story.

Sometimes when there are characters speaking back and forth it becomes unclear which person said what. This happens a lot.

There are more confusing pieces, like FMC is pleasuring herself and thinking of her affair and she climaxes. And then “As I catch my breath, the thought settles deep in my chest. I can’t stay away from him much longer. And I don’t want to.” I would assume she means her husband. The way this is written it wasn’t clear.

The way her husband is so absent in this book is strange. And creepy. Also it seemed obvious he was her stalker from the beginning. Why else would he leave so easily?

Often times in this book I can’t tell if minutes, days or weeks have passed since the scene. An example is Sarah and Dom decide to separate. The next paragraphs are her taking her rent check to Mike and Spencer and they are talking about an upcoming Christmas party. Then further she says weeks since her separation. Then we start talking about Thanksgiving and Spencer’s birthday. The timeline is very unclear in this area.

Most of the book feel like reading Sarah’s diary. With the occasional paragraph from Spencer’s perspective. I don’t like that. I felt like either give us his perspective the whole time too or not at all.

The relationship between Sarah and Spencer is honestly so unbelievable in my opinion. One minute she is ok being just his mistress. The next she wants to be a full part of his life. In the end she realizes what any adult knew the moment they started this book and that is that Spencer was never going to really leave his wife and be with Sarah.

Lastly I would like to add that if her Ex caused her so much trauma in their marriage that was having nightmares, I find it hard to believe that she would still be friends with him.

I read this book as an early reader to give a review. And I won’t say it was a terrible book. And I know there are more books in this series. But I just didn’t feel like Sarah’s story pulled me in.

[Shannon Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summary: This is a cheating romance.

Additional tropes:
✅Taboo (age gap)

Detailed spoilers/trigger warnings (if any) and final thoughts can be found below.

Our FMC is Sarah. She married Dominic at a young age, guiding her decisions based on religious and moral beliefs. Early on in her marriage, things are going downhill quickly as she discovers more about her husband that is concerning as well as the treatment she receives by him. His actions are causing her to distance herself and disconnect from her marriage.

It’s at this point she meets Spencer. He’s the new landlord for the building that houses the business her and her mother own and run together. Harmless flirting turns into a physical affair and emotional dependence. Spencer is also married and in a loveless and passionless relationship so the two of them provide to each other, what they are missing with their partners.

They are risky with their rendezvous, which provides a lot of angst for the story. They end up being spotted by a mutual friend to the MMC and his wife, and then Sarah starts receiving notes and phone calls. She believes it is this friend but is unsure and as the story progresses, we learn who is behind this and the extent that they are willing to go to.

At a certain point, the MMC tells the FMC that he is finally ready to make the move to end his marriage and she couldn’t be more happy. But is her happiness short-lived? This book does end on a mild cliffhanger leaving the reader to ask what is going to happen next?

⚠️SPOILERS/SPICE/DETAILED TRIGGERS⚠️

*Intimate partner violence to include verbal, emotional, and mental abuse.
🌶️: 3/5: Between main characters

Final thoughts: I enjoyed this book. I love a cheating romance and most of the books I’ve read are the FMC is the one being cheated on. So cheating between the main characters is a little different for me but this was good. I really felt for Sarah being so young and stuck in a horrible marriage. The fact that this is the example of what marriage is makes me sad for her.

Both of them are staying with their partners out of obligation which is a terrible position to be in. I will admit, at times it felt like the MMC was just with the FMC for the thrill of the sex but then you get his perspective to understand the extent of his feelings. Sarah is clear how she feels but with Spencer it was hard to tell sometimes. He sounded like every other married man trying to get into a woman’s pants. I liked that bit of ambiguity. Again, I think it was necessary to get a few pieces from his point of view so that we could see how he felt about Sarah.

There’s a ton of angst in this. A lot of it comes from just how risky the main characters are in their time spent together. There is a confrontational scene toward the end with his wife that was pretty dramatic. And then there’s some things that are still going on with her ex-husband, which is ominous. So there were definitely some good edge of your seat moments here.

The writing was great. This is book one and it does leave us with some unanswered questions so I am looking forward to reading the next book to see what is going to happen with this couple.

[Hezza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)

In her evocative debut, Entanglement, the first installment of The Landlord Series, L.L. Loveland crafts a visceral and unapologetic exploration of desire, guilt, and the fracturing of a modern marriage. The story centers on a woman tethered to an unfulfilling union who finds herself inexorably drawn to another married person, sparking a journey that is as much about internal deconstruction as it is about external infidelity. Loveland’s prose is strikingly beautiful, particularly in how she navigates the protagonist’s religious upbringing; this background serves as a heavy, looming shadow that forces the character into a profound moral battle.

While the author provides clear content warnings, the opening chapters are intentionally uncomfortable. However, those who trust Loveland’s steady hand will find that this discomfort is a necessary precursor to the emotional depth that follows. I found myself so gripped by the tension, a true testament to the author's ability to maintain an incredibly solid emotional pace.

The narrative does not shy away from explicit detail, earning a significant rating for its "spice" level. These intimate scenes are not merely decorative; they are crucial to understanding the intense, often overwhelming connection between the central characters. While some readers may find these passages challenging, their inclusion feels vital to the author's exploration of desire and its consequences. The novel concludes leaving the reader with a sense of unresolved tension and a ton of questions about the characters' futures and the possibility of redemption, setting the stage compellingly for sequels.

Entanglement is ultimately a powerful and thought-provoking read that will likely spark considerable discussion among its audience. The mark of a successful novel is its ability to elicit a strong reaction, and Loveland undoubtedly achieves this. Rating this debut 4.5 out of 5 stars, I found it to be a compelling and well-crafted start to The Landlord Series, and I look forward to seeing where the author takes these complex characters next.

[Shonna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author, and I read it all in one day! It is a story about a woman who is in unhappy and unfilled in her marriage and becomes strongly drawn to another married person. She had a religious upbringing and this cause a lot of conflict and inner questioning about her choices throughout the story.

The author warned there are triggers and it will likely start out as an uncomfortable read. This a true statement. I almost stopped a couple chapters in because of personal life experiences. However, I trusted the author and continued. I am glad I did, as you can tell by the fact I finished it in one day.

I am left with many questions that I believe will be answered in future books. I am also left conflicted about my feelings about the main characters. Will there be redemption? Will there not?

The author writes beautifully! However, there are definite triggers. She does a good job of listing them. Also, be aware the intimate scenes are detailed. If that isn't something you care for, this book could be difficult for you. If I had not been reading this as an arc and just for personal pleasure, I would had probably skimmed through those as I continued with the stories. But, after reading these sections, I also think they are necessary for a reader to truly understand the relationship between the two main characters.

At the end of the story, I am glad I read it. I could see it being a book that draws a lot of discussion amongst people who read it. And anytime you have a reaction to a story, no matter what it is, good or bad, the author has been successful. Congrats to a job well done.

[Amanda Dosty · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time writing a review so please be patient with me.

We start off meeting Sarah, a 19 year old girl who married her hs sweetheart, who turns out to be a douche and a bum.
She’s very young and naive, and kind of desperate to feel loved , which I can sympathize with as a former dumb 19 year old girl. She then meets Spencer, on of her landlords for the business she runs with her mother. Spencer is hot, older and gives her the attention and “affection “ she so desperately seeks. Spencer is also married. Spencer is also probably one of the least likable characters I’ve ever come across. He’s a slimy and manipulative snake, but sweet Sarah just doesn’t see it. Though she does tend to have temporary moments of clarity but then goes right back to having hearts in her eyes for him. It was extremely frustrating. And just when you think Spencer may be redeemable and they get a happily every after, boom cliffhanger. So now I have to wait god knows how long to find out if sweet Sarah gets her hea.

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC. One of the best lines in the book for me…..“I found myself in a quiet war fighting for a man that didn’t fight for me.”

A young woman who believes is the sanctity of marriage. She marries young with visions and hopes for a long lasting life with her husband. Cracks begin to form in their marriage at the one year mark. She becomes attracted to her landlord who is married with children. They have an illicit affair. She realizes who she married to is not the person she wants to spend the rest of her life with.

The passion is scorching hot between them. Whispers and promises are made, they both are going to walk away from their significant others and start a new life together.

Without giving the entire story away…the ending left me with saying “I knew it”. Enjoy!

[Carrie Sutton · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an “okay” reading for me. It had a lot of potential for the storyline itself, but I had a hard time finishing the book. The characters, to me, never felt like they deepened throughout most of the story. The wordings in the conversations felt very surface level and stilted most of the time. I always wanted there to be more supporting development of the story and inclusion of the details that were provided. Many times I felt like there were clues inserted that made me watch for when the information should have resurfaced, but the MCs never appeared to “remember” those details. I know this was the first in a series but I felt like it could end there and I wouldn’t really keep wondering what could happen.

[Morgan T · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time receiving an ARC. This book was intriguing and kept me hooked to the story line. The author knows how to keep your attention and never let you get bored. I do have a hard time ethically with the storyline however I do feel like the series as a whole, will not disappoint. Overall, I gave this 4 stars because it’s not a storyline I would typically choose however, I do look forward to completing the series. I have no doubt by the end of the series, this will be a 5 star rating!

[Shawna Bedingfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Entanglement Series follows a young female protagonist as she navigates the emotional complexities of divorce alongside an unexpected love affair. Overall, I really enjoyed the story and found the journey engaging and heartfelt. While there were a few plot points that felt like they could have used more development, they didn’t take away from my overall experience. The ending surprised me in the best way, which I truly appreciated. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the second book and exploring more from this author.

[Sara Keenan · Rating 2 out of 5]

I recieved this book from the Author as an ARC copy. I really liked the thought behind this book and was looking forward to reading it. However, for me personally, it was really hard to get into. I felt that there was too much going on with no smooth transition between. So it felt choppy. I also felt like the descriptive language was over the top. Again, I like the plot and was hoping for more, but for me personally, it just wasn't a 5 star. I look forward to trying another book by this author in the future as this is her 1st book. I can see the potential!!

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ spice level
Lies, lust, betrayal, morally grey and age gap. FMC and the MMC has this pull towards each other that makes it hard for them to not want to be together. Both married and not happy in their life. This new found relationship is everything they both want for now. The plot twisted at the end which surprised me. I can’t wait to read book 2 to see what happens between the FMC and MMC.

[Savannah Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. At first I was a little iffy on it because it deals with religion and cheating on spouses. I am not religious but it honestly didnt mention religion that often. I got very invested in the story towards the end and I am excited to read the next book with the cliff hanger at the end. I finished this book in less than 3 days once I got into I couldn't stop. The spice is good but there is definitely some trigger warnings. This book is definitely worth reading.

[Amanda Romero · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review for Entanglement: The Landlord Series · Book One (Kindle Edition) by L. L. Loveland
Release date: 2/3/2026
Rating: 4/5 stars
Spice: 4 Chili peppers

This book is full of twists and turns, lots of drama and spicy. I really enjoyed this book ends and your mouth is on the floor or at least mine was. one of the many favorite quotes from the book was "What's left isn't love, it habit. Loyalty dressed up as intimacy"

[The Book Ssirren · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very interesting read to say the least. To have religion play a part in a romance like this was very unique and original. Being caught between two men must’ve been incredibly hard. Especially since one is your husband and the other is married to someone else. This really tests your faith for sure. It has some twists and turns. Things I didn’t see coming. But I was really intrigued by this story and actually really enjoyed it.

[Courtney Burgess · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first ever ARC. I’m so thankful to the author for sharing this with me before the rest of the world is “entangled” The first in the Landlord series. This book jumps right into the spice! No slow burn here… it’s the perfect combination of romance, desire and suspense. It’s a real page turner with mystery built in. I kept waiting to see who it was… not knowing who to trust… no Spoilers! Easy to say I am hooked and can’t wait until her next novel comes out!

[Jessica Gomez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about a woman who was realized how unhappy she was in her marriage. Her husband was an alcoholic and she felt neglected and wanted more and chose to start a relationship with another man who was also married and unhappy. This book had non stop twist and turns, emotions and drama. I thought I had the story figured out then came another twist, leaving me wanting more. Great book.

[Daniella · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me so up and down. Definitely a recommended read if you love romances with twists. Loveland throws in those dual POVs at just the right time throughout the book to give both characters emotional perspectives. The additional mystery behind the caller adds just the right suspense to keep you invested in the book. Looking forward to the second book......have to know what happens.

[Yamili Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is complex. It has twists and turns and the ending leaves you feeling a little jilted. Even though you know the characters are doing something wrong you are still rooting for their relationship. A must read with an open mind in order to get swept away in this story. It is one that will leave you wanting more.