What do you think?
Rate this book
Kings of Lakeshore #2
Love, Uncut
Not yet published
Expected 31 Jan 26A Kings of Lakeshore Romance
He agreed to an arranged marriage for business.
He didn’t expect to fall in love with his wife.
Langston Blackwell has always lived by control.
Control over his empire.
Control over his future.
Control over the legacy built on diamonds and power.
So when a strategic marriage is demanded, he agrees—expecting a polished, obedient bride who understands the rules.
Instead, he gets Sabrina Kensington.
She’s outspoken. Independent. Untamed.
She wants nothing to do with her family’s business, his world, or the expectations tied to either of their names. She only agrees to the marriage to protect her younger sister—and gives Langston one
One year.
One year of public appearances.
One year of pretending.
One year before she walks away.
But Langston never learned how to want something halfway.
What starts as obligation turns into possession.
What begins as distance turns into longing.
And the more Sabrina fights for her independence, the more Langston finds himself fighting for her.
Because loving Sabrina means risking control.
And Langston Blackwell has never wanted anything more.
Love, Uncut is a steamy, emotionally charged arranged-marriage romance
Billionaire hero
Touch-her-and-die protection
“My wife” energy
Slow-burn tension
Found family
A fierce heroine who refuses to be owned
A hero who learns that love isn’t a contract—it’s a choice
Sometimes love isn’t polished.
Sometimes it isn’t safe.
Sometimes it cuts deep enough to change everything.
And sometimes… it’s worth the risk.
He agreed to an arranged marriage for business.
He didn’t expect to fall in love with his wife.
Langston Blackwell has always lived by control.
Control over his empire.
Control over his future.
Control over the legacy built on diamonds and power.
So when a strategic marriage is demanded, he agrees—expecting a polished, obedient bride who understands the rules.
Instead, he gets Sabrina Kensington.
She’s outspoken. Independent. Untamed.
She wants nothing to do with her family’s business, his world, or the expectations tied to either of their names. She only agrees to the marriage to protect her younger sister—and gives Langston one
One year.
One year of public appearances.
One year of pretending.
One year before she walks away.
But Langston never learned how to want something halfway.
What starts as obligation turns into possession.
What begins as distance turns into longing.
And the more Sabrina fights for her independence, the more Langston finds himself fighting for her.
Because loving Sabrina means risking control.
And Langston Blackwell has never wanted anything more.
Love, Uncut is a steamy, emotionally charged arranged-marriage romance
Billionaire hero
Touch-her-and-die protection
“My wife” energy
Slow-burn tension
Found family
A fierce heroine who refuses to be owned
A hero who learns that love isn’t a contract—it’s a choice
Sometimes love isn’t polished.
Sometimes it isn’t safe.
Sometimes it cuts deep enough to change everything.
And sometimes… it’s worth the risk.
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 31, 2026
7 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Smith
12 books67 followersI live in a beautiful river town in North Carolina with my husband, kids, in-laws and fur babies. I love to travel and books. If I am not reading one I am writing one. I love how a book can give you an escape from our normal world. You can be anywhere and become anyone.
I want anyone reading one of my books to remember this....
you are worthy, you are loved, you are wanted!
I want anyone reading one of my books to remember this....
you are worthy, you are loved, you are wanted!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 7, 2026
Billionaire bachelor Langston Blackwell agrees to an arranged marriage, for the sake of the family business. But much to his surprise, while at the meeting to draw up contracts and meet his future wife… the woman who comes striding into the room is the gorgeous waitress who has been occupying his thoughts as of late. Sabrina. She is calm and beautiful, but in her eyes there’s a dangerous fire simmering, and Langston has never been afraid of a little heat.
This book is full of cute banter, and will they or won’t they moments.
He falls first/touch her and die/My Wife/ feisty FMC
I loved having Remi and Coleman moments, plus the nod to the Rizzoli family series by having them be part of Kings of Lakeshore too.
This book is full of cute banter, and will they or won’t they moments.
He falls first/touch her and die/My Wife/ feisty FMC
I loved having Remi and Coleman moments, plus the nod to the Rizzoli family series by having them be part of Kings of Lakeshore too.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Langston and Sabrina now hold the spot for my favorite JS couple! I loved the banter and chemistry from the beginning. This story was binge worthy for me, especially with the character appearances from previous series! I can't wait for the other guy's stories for the Kings of Lakeshore series.
January 11, 2026
Langston has forever stolen my heart!!! I could not get enought of Sabrina and Langston! Their story was perfect! The banter back and forth was amazing! And the love he had for her was tremendous! Jennifer knocked it out of the park with this one hands down my favorite yet!
January 25, 2026
This was such a refreshing surprise in the billionaire romance space!
I usually gravitate toward darker billionaire/mafia romances, so I loved how different this felt. There’s very little violence, and the “empire” aspects stay firmly in the background as plot devices rather than becoming the entire plot, which, honestly, felt like a breath of fresh air.
Langston completely stole the show for me. He is not the typical controlling, aggressive, alpha billionaire. Instead, he’s supportive, emotionally present, and quietly devoted to Sabrina long before he even realizes it himself. He might be the closest thing to a “golden retriever” MMC I’ve ever read in this genre, and I loved every second of it.
Sabrina was also a really solid FMC. She’s stubborn, but in a way that feels grounded and reasonable, NOT frustrating or contrived. I especially appreciated how she handled Langston’s “demands” with logic and self-respect rather than unnecessary drama.
One of my favorite aspects of their relationship? They actually communicate. They talk things through, which dramatically cuts down on miscommunication (my absolute least favorite micro-trope). Watching their relationship grow through honest conversations made their connection feel much more real and earned.
Spice-wise, I typically read 4-5+ spice books, but I still really enjoyed this one. I’d rate it around a 2.5/5 for spice—definitely not closed-door, but mild enough that it’s plane-friendly. The focus is far more on emotional intimacy and relationship development than bedroom scenes, and for these characters, that felt like exactly the right choice. The romance never felt lacking because of it.
This was my first book by Jennifer Smith, but it definitely won’t be my last. I’d happily continue with the rest of this series.
I usually gravitate toward darker billionaire/mafia romances, so I loved how different this felt. There’s very little violence, and the “empire” aspects stay firmly in the background as plot devices rather than becoming the entire plot, which, honestly, felt like a breath of fresh air.
Langston completely stole the show for me. He is not the typical controlling, aggressive, alpha billionaire. Instead, he’s supportive, emotionally present, and quietly devoted to Sabrina long before he even realizes it himself. He might be the closest thing to a “golden retriever” MMC I’ve ever read in this genre, and I loved every second of it.
Sabrina was also a really solid FMC. She’s stubborn, but in a way that feels grounded and reasonable, NOT frustrating or contrived. I especially appreciated how she handled Langston’s “demands” with logic and self-respect rather than unnecessary drama.
One of my favorite aspects of their relationship? They actually communicate. They talk things through, which dramatically cuts down on miscommunication (my absolute least favorite micro-trope). Watching their relationship grow through honest conversations made their connection feel much more real and earned.
Spice-wise, I typically read 4-5+ spice books, but I still really enjoyed this one. I’d rate it around a 2.5/5 for spice—definitely not closed-door, but mild enough that it’s plane-friendly. The focus is far more on emotional intimacy and relationship development than bedroom scenes, and for these characters, that felt like exactly the right choice. The romance never felt lacking because of it.
This was my first book by Jennifer Smith, but it definitely won’t be my last. I’d happily continue with the rest of this series.
Review of advance copy
Langston has always done what is best for his family, and agreeing to marry Kensington’s daughter is no different. When he goes to meet her, he is stunned to discover that her sister is actually Sabrina, the girl he once saw, instantly fell for, and never made a move on.
Langston did so many things in this story that completely won me over. Redesigning his home into a space he personally hated just so his new wife would feel comfortable was such a huge gesture. I also loved that he never once pushed Sabrina physically. From the very beginning, he fell hard for her, and his feelings were steady, patient, and unwavering.
Sabrina tries desperately to protect herself, but the more she realizes how much she enjoys the way Langston treats her, the giddier I became. She doesn’t shy away from his light touches or even his possessiveness. She wants her independence, yes, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t want him.
The back-and-forth between them was entertaining, but it also broke my heart for both of them. At one point in the middle of the story, I could feel just how empty Langston was. At the same time, I loved how easily they existed together. Their relationship felt natural, comfortable, and rare.
Langston’s friends were such a fun addition. They appeared at just the right moments, adding comedic relief while also helping both Langston and Sabrina come to the realizations they needed.
The ending was an emotional whiplash in the best way. My heart cracked open and then slowly pieced itself back together. Langston’s devotion to Sabrina throughout the entire book gave me heart-eyes and soft, squishy feelings from start to finish. I received this book as an ARC and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
The second my lips hit hers, the frantic, jagged static in my brain finally goes quiet .
Langston did so many things in this story that completely won me over. Redesigning his home into a space he personally hated just so his new wife would feel comfortable was such a huge gesture. I also loved that he never once pushed Sabrina physically. From the very beginning, he fell hard for her, and his feelings were steady, patient, and unwavering.
Sabrina tries desperately to protect herself, but the more she realizes how much she enjoys the way Langston treats her, the giddier I became. She doesn’t shy away from his light touches or even his possessiveness. She wants her independence, yes, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t want him.
The back-and-forth between them was entertaining, but it also broke my heart for both of them. At one point in the middle of the story, I could feel just how empty Langston was. At the same time, I loved how easily they existed together. Their relationship felt natural, comfortable, and rare.
Langston’s friends were such a fun addition. They appeared at just the right moments, adding comedic relief while also helping both Langston and Sabrina come to the realizations they needed.
The ending was an emotional whiplash in the best way. My heart cracked open and then slowly pieced itself back together. Langston’s devotion to Sabrina throughout the entire book gave me heart-eyes and soft, squishy feelings from start to finish. I received this book as an ARC and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
The second my lips hit hers, the frantic, jagged static in my brain finally goes quiet .
Review of advance copy
Some stories slip into your heart quietly — and then refuse to leave. Love, Uncut is exactly that kind of book. It’s messy, warm, funny, and full of the kind of emotion that feels painfully real.
Sabrina and Langston’s marriage of convenience was meant to be nothing more than a business arrangement. But life had already tangled their paths long before the deal was made. Langston had seen Sabrina once in a bar — just a brief moment — and felt something he couldn’t explain. He didn’t know her name, didn’t know her story… only that she stayed on his mind. And when he later discovered she was the other daughter in the family he was about to marry into, everything shifted.
Sabrina, the family’s black sheep, agrees to the marriage for one reason only: to protect her younger sister from being pushed into a life she didn’t choose. She gives the marriage one year — not out of romance, but out of defiance. A quiet, powerful way of saying: I won’t be a pawn. I won’t be a commodity.
And then there’s Langston — all control, structure, and sharp edges — suddenly faced with a woman who is pure, beautiful chaos. Their banter is addictive, their chemistry impossible to ignore, and the emotional moments hit with surprising force.
This book made me laugh, made me tear up, and reminded me how deeply stories can reflect our own fears of not being enough. And how healing it is when someone finally sees you — all of you — and stays.
A twist at the end caught me completely off guard, and the warm, hopeful ending left me smiling long after I closed the book.
If you love romance with humor, heart, and a touch of real life’s messiness, this one is worth every page.
Sabrina and Langston’s marriage of convenience was meant to be nothing more than a business arrangement. But life had already tangled their paths long before the deal was made. Langston had seen Sabrina once in a bar — just a brief moment — and felt something he couldn’t explain. He didn’t know her name, didn’t know her story… only that she stayed on his mind. And when he later discovered she was the other daughter in the family he was about to marry into, everything shifted.
Sabrina, the family’s black sheep, agrees to the marriage for one reason only: to protect her younger sister from being pushed into a life she didn’t choose. She gives the marriage one year — not out of romance, but out of defiance. A quiet, powerful way of saying: I won’t be a pawn. I won’t be a commodity.
And then there’s Langston — all control, structure, and sharp edges — suddenly faced with a woman who is pure, beautiful chaos. Their banter is addictive, their chemistry impossible to ignore, and the emotional moments hit with surprising force.
This book made me laugh, made me tear up, and reminded me how deeply stories can reflect our own fears of not being enough. And how healing it is when someone finally sees you — all of you — and stays.
A twist at the end caught me completely off guard, and the warm, hopeful ending left me smiling long after I closed the book.
If you love romance with humor, heart, and a touch of real life’s messiness, this one is worth every page.
January 25, 2026
Love, Uncut was a beautifully romantic story that I loved every second of.
Langston, our MMC, is incredibly sweet and genuinely adorable, with so much emotional depth. I loved seeing how vulnerable he is when it comes to letting someone in and how deeply his fear of being left and heartbroken shapes him. His softness and emotional honesty made him impossible not to adore.
Sabrina, our FMC, is a strong, independent woman who refuses to be put in a box or treated like an accessory. She knows her worth. That said, she also carries past trauma, and her emotional walls are firmly built — she’s just as afraid of getting hurt as Langston, even if she hides it differently.
Together, Langston and Sabrina are perfect. Their banter was fantastic, and I loved the way they antagonise each other while clearly being aware of the love simmering underneath it all. Their chemistry was beautiful, natural, and deeply emotional. They’re the kind of couple you don’t want to say goodbye to — I honestly wasn’t ready for their story to end.
Love, Uncut is Book 2 in the interconnected Kings of Lakeshore series, but I read it easily as a standalone. That said, I’m absolutely going back to read Book 1 now 😁
A heartfelt, swoony romance from Jennifer Smith that stayed with me long after the final page.
Tropes:
⭐️ Billionaire Romance
⭐️ Marriage of Convenience
⭐️ Forced Proximity
⭐️ “My Wife” Energy
⭐️ Touch Her and Pay
⭐️ Found Family
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
Langston, our MMC, is incredibly sweet and genuinely adorable, with so much emotional depth. I loved seeing how vulnerable he is when it comes to letting someone in and how deeply his fear of being left and heartbroken shapes him. His softness and emotional honesty made him impossible not to adore.
Sabrina, our FMC, is a strong, independent woman who refuses to be put in a box or treated like an accessory. She knows her worth. That said, she also carries past trauma, and her emotional walls are firmly built — she’s just as afraid of getting hurt as Langston, even if she hides it differently.
Together, Langston and Sabrina are perfect. Their banter was fantastic, and I loved the way they antagonise each other while clearly being aware of the love simmering underneath it all. Their chemistry was beautiful, natural, and deeply emotional. They’re the kind of couple you don’t want to say goodbye to — I honestly wasn’t ready for their story to end.
Love, Uncut is Book 2 in the interconnected Kings of Lakeshore series, but I read it easily as a standalone. That said, I’m absolutely going back to read Book 1 now 😁
A heartfelt, swoony romance from Jennifer Smith that stayed with me long after the final page.
Tropes:
⭐️ Billionaire Romance
⭐️ Marriage of Convenience
⭐️ Forced Proximity
⭐️ “My Wife” Energy
⭐️ Touch Her and Pay
⭐️ Found Family
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️
January 8, 2026
Langston(MMC) makes things happen and his family mostly his dad believes in him because has proven himself over and over. Tell her family I want this marriage to Sabrina or it won’t happen. He wanted her and god does she make things crazy but she’s fire and if she can get on board, she’ll be a storm in there corner, not theirs! He is protective, powerful, and will hurt anyone that touches his wife! The nick name he gives feels normal to him! Sweetheart!!!
Sabrina(FMC) the daughter was not part of the deal but has and cute nick name for her and her sister Ariana calls her “sweet” and Ariana calls her sister Sabrina “Tart”. Love how protective she is with her step sister like step means nothing! Does what ever she can to help her little sister. She was not raised to follow orders and not live her life she think this thing the Langston is only going to a last year she is so mistaken! But she loves him.
“If the deal isn’t for her— It’s off.”
I love how thru the first of her books she bring characters back into other stories that we have read before I love,love these stories I love everything she continues to write please never stop! The back and forth battle between them and his dad I swear😜🤯!!!
Love your books and felt like ending was rushed bc I want more!!!!!
Sabrina(FMC) the daughter was not part of the deal but has and cute nick name for her and her sister Ariana calls her “sweet” and Ariana calls her sister Sabrina “Tart”. Love how protective she is with her step sister like step means nothing! Does what ever she can to help her little sister. She was not raised to follow orders and not live her life she think this thing the Langston is only going to a last year she is so mistaken! But she loves him.
“If the deal isn’t for her— It’s off.”
I love how thru the first of her books she bring characters back into other stories that we have read before I love,love these stories I love everything she continues to write please never stop! The back and forth battle between them and his dad I swear😜🤯!!!
Love your books and felt like ending was rushed bc I want more!!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reviewed by Rose on behalf of the Plot Thickens Book Club
Title: Love Uncut (Kings of Lakeshore Book 2)
Author: Jennifer Smith
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Who needs sleep. I didn't as I couldn't put this book down. Wanting to know what came next in this Steamy, emotional and romantic book.
Langston agreed to an arranged marriage to merge two families the original contract was for him to marry Ariana the younger sister. Sabrina steps in to rescue her sister and Langston who had seen Sabrina weeks earlier but didn't know her name insisted that the contract be amended to be with Sabrina. He is the calm and control to her chaos. He realises quite early in the relationship that he won't let her go. She is his to protect to posess and love. Sabrina told him one year and they would walk away. She soon realised she didn't want to walk away but neither wanted to admit that what they had was far more than a contract.
I would definitely recommend everyone read this book and I can't wait to read the next book in series when it's released. This is book 2 of the series and I'm now going to download book 1.
Title: Love Uncut (Kings of Lakeshore Book 2)
Author: Jennifer Smith
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Who needs sleep. I didn't as I couldn't put this book down. Wanting to know what came next in this Steamy, emotional and romantic book.
Langston agreed to an arranged marriage to merge two families the original contract was for him to marry Ariana the younger sister. Sabrina steps in to rescue her sister and Langston who had seen Sabrina weeks earlier but didn't know her name insisted that the contract be amended to be with Sabrina. He is the calm and control to her chaos. He realises quite early in the relationship that he won't let her go. She is his to protect to posess and love. Sabrina told him one year and they would walk away. She soon realised she didn't want to walk away but neither wanted to admit that what they had was far more than a contract.
I would definitely recommend everyone read this book and I can't wait to read the next book in series when it's released. This is book 2 of the series and I'm now going to download book 1.
Review of advance copy received from Author
]YES!! More like this, please. I was expecting the average morally grey man—possessive, broody, and emotionally closed off—but I was not prepared for the maturity and vulnerability in these characters, both the FMC and MMC.
One of my biggest gripes in romance is when characters don’t act their age, and that was absolutely not an issue here. Their emotional intelligence felt real, grounded, and earned. I loved this book. I loved the romance. I loved how there was tension and strong protector vibes, but never cruelty. Watching each character’s walls slowly come down as they confronted their feelings for each other was incredibly satisfying.
This book includes one spicy scene (open-door, semi-graphic) and one steamy scene that fades to black. If you’re someone who prefers to avoid spice but loves the emotional depth and vibes of Love, Uncut, you can easily skip these scenes—the romance alone more than carries the story.
I’m genuinely so happy I read this and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a more mature, emotionally rich romance.
One of my biggest gripes in romance is when characters don’t act their age, and that was absolutely not an issue here. Their emotional intelligence felt real, grounded, and earned. I loved this book. I loved the romance. I loved how there was tension and strong protector vibes, but never cruelty. Watching each character’s walls slowly come down as they confronted their feelings for each other was incredibly satisfying.
This book includes one spicy scene (open-door, semi-graphic) and one steamy scene that fades to black. If you’re someone who prefers to avoid spice but loves the emotional depth and vibes of Love, Uncut, you can easily skip these scenes—the romance alone more than carries the story.
I’m genuinely so happy I read this and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a more mature, emotionally rich romance.
January 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨4.5 stars
I really enjoyed Love, Uncut. Overall, this was a fun and engaging read that felt like a rom-com in many ways.
The FMC started off as a strong, confident character, which I loved, but as the story went on she began to feel a little too highschool level childish for my taste. Lang, on the other hand, is a total simp, which I’m absolutely here for, but his character didn’t feel as strong or assertive as I initially expected. I did like him a lot, though I wish he had done more when it came to dealing with the guy who was interfering.
I also wasn’t a huge fan of some of the repetition throughout the story, but it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. The spice level was minimal, which I was totally fine with, and it fit the tone of the book well.
Despite those minor issues, this book was charming, light, and enjoyable, and I genuinely had a good time reading it.
Thank you to Jennifer Smith for the opportunity to read this before releas. I’m glad I picked it up!
I really enjoyed Love, Uncut. Overall, this was a fun and engaging read that felt like a rom-com in many ways.
The FMC started off as a strong, confident character, which I loved, but as the story went on she began to feel a little too highschool level childish for my taste. Lang, on the other hand, is a total simp, which I’m absolutely here for, but his character didn’t feel as strong or assertive as I initially expected. I did like him a lot, though I wish he had done more when it came to dealing with the guy who was interfering.
I also wasn’t a huge fan of some of the repetition throughout the story, but it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. The spice level was minimal, which I was totally fine with, and it fit the tone of the book well.
Despite those minor issues, this book was charming, light, and enjoyable, and I genuinely had a good time reading it.
Thank you to Jennifer Smith for the opportunity to read this before releas. I’m glad I picked it up!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love, Uncut delivers everything I crave in an arranged-marriage romance—and then cuts even deeper.
Langston Blackwell is the definition of control: billionaire, powerful, and used to bending the world to his will. Sabrina Kensington is his opposite—outspoken, independent, and absolutely unwilling to be owned. What begins as a cold, strategic agreement quickly turns into a slow-burn battle of wills that simmers with tension, longing, and that irresistible “my wife” energy.
This story shines because neither character is easy. Sabrina refuses to shrink herself, even when surrounded by diamonds and expectations, and Langston’s journey from control to choice is deeply satisfying. Watching him learn that love isn’t a contract—but a risk worth taking—had me completely hooked.
🔥 Slow-burn tension
🔥 Touch-her-and-die protection
🔥 A fierce heroine who won’t be caged
🔥 A hero undone by love
🔥 Found family + emotional depth
Steamy, emotional, and powerful, Love, Uncut proves that sometimes love isn’t polished or safe—but when it cuts deep enough, it changes everything. This one lingered with me long after the final page. 💎💔✨
Langston Blackwell is the definition of control: billionaire, powerful, and used to bending the world to his will. Sabrina Kensington is his opposite—outspoken, independent, and absolutely unwilling to be owned. What begins as a cold, strategic agreement quickly turns into a slow-burn battle of wills that simmers with tension, longing, and that irresistible “my wife” energy.
This story shines because neither character is easy. Sabrina refuses to shrink herself, even when surrounded by diamonds and expectations, and Langston’s journey from control to choice is deeply satisfying. Watching him learn that love isn’t a contract—but a risk worth taking—had me completely hooked.
🔥 Slow-burn tension
🔥 Touch-her-and-die protection
🔥 A fierce heroine who won’t be caged
🔥 A hero undone by love
🔥 Found family + emotional depth
Steamy, emotional, and powerful, Love, Uncut proves that sometimes love isn’t polished or safe—but when it cuts deep enough, it changes everything. This one lingered with me long after the final page. 💎💔✨
January 28, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Love Uncut was my first time reading Jennifer Smith, and it definitely won’t be my last. I absolutely loved her writing style—easy, smooth, and super engaging. The story flowed effortlessly and kept me smiling the whole way through.
Sabrina and Langston were such a joy to read about. Their banter was on point, their chemistry undeniable, and together they were just so sweet and cute. Honestly, this is one of those books you grin at from start to finish. It was mushy, gooey, sugary-sweet goodness, and I was completely here for it.
It’s the perfect feel-good romance—light, charming, and comforting. I also really enjoyed the friend group; they added so much fun and personality to the story and made everything even more enjoyable.
Now I have to go back and read book one in the series, and I’m already very curious about the Rizzoli Brothers and reading their stories too.
Thank you so much for the ARC—I loved it!
Love Uncut was my first time reading Jennifer Smith, and it definitely won’t be my last. I absolutely loved her writing style—easy, smooth, and super engaging. The story flowed effortlessly and kept me smiling the whole way through.
Sabrina and Langston were such a joy to read about. Their banter was on point, their chemistry undeniable, and together they were just so sweet and cute. Honestly, this is one of those books you grin at from start to finish. It was mushy, gooey, sugary-sweet goodness, and I was completely here for it.
It’s the perfect feel-good romance—light, charming, and comforting. I also really enjoyed the friend group; they added so much fun and personality to the story and made everything even more enjoyable.
Now I have to go back and read book one in the series, and I’m already very curious about the Rizzoli Brothers and reading their stories too.
Thank you so much for the ARC—I loved it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 ⭐ rounded up! Solid, slightly above average read for me.
This is a billionaire arranged marriage under his terms with a heroine who is determined to keep her independence. "If the deal isn't for her-it's off."
The MMC falls first and quickly becomes protective of her while the FMC has the idea of this marriage arrangement is just for one year, until it isn't. The dynamic between the characters is enjoyable with the MMC's quiet pining and the FMC's growth of desire.
Some of my favorite lines are:
"There's no way in hell I'll ever sleep with someone who looks like she still asks permission to go out after dark."
"She is exquisite. A flawless, uncut gem that I finally get to hold."
This is a billionaire arranged marriage under his terms with a heroine who is determined to keep her independence. "If the deal isn't for her-it's off."
The MMC falls first and quickly becomes protective of her while the FMC has the idea of this marriage arrangement is just for one year, until it isn't. The dynamic between the characters is enjoyable with the MMC's quiet pining and the FMC's growth of desire.
Some of my favorite lines are:
"There's no way in hell I'll ever sleep with someone who looks like she still asks permission to go out after dark."
"She is exquisite. A flawless, uncut gem that I finally get to hold."
January 8, 2026
I obsessed with everything Jennifer Smith writes. This is the 2nd book in the series, but it can totally be read as a stand alone. If you like billionaires that will burn the world down for their wives, marriages of convenience, and forced proximity then you need to read this book immediately.
I felt like I was right there with Langston and Sabrina. I could feel the emotion pouring off the pages - I definitely teared up at some points and laughed at others. Mrs. D and Olga are excellent side characters and I’m so glad they were a part of the story. I also really appreciate the cameos of the other characters from this series as well as the Rizzolis.
I can’t wait for the next book!
I felt like I was right there with Langston and Sabrina. I could feel the emotion pouring off the pages - I definitely teared up at some points and laughed at others. Mrs. D and Olga are excellent side characters and I’m so glad they were a part of the story. I also really appreciate the cameos of the other characters from this series as well as the Rizzolis.
I can’t wait for the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
So lucky to be able to read another ARC by Jennifer! I loved this book and finished it within just a few hours. A story where he falls first and a the girl is a redhead hits a special place in my heart 🥰 A king of lakeshore who is so focused on his business and seems as though he doesn’t have time for love until he sees this stunning waitress and he is immediately entranced by her. The bad part as part of a business deal he’s already in a contract to marry someone else for the good of business… This book has the man that everyone dreams of having, caring, loyal, and protective as hell! Add this to your TBR when it releases on January 31st!
Review of advance copy
Oh how I loved Langston and Sabrina's story. I wished it was longer lol because I didn't want it to end.
We meet Sabrina who is unknowingly in the cross hairs of billionaire Langston Blackwell. Langston is arranged to marry a Kensington. Unbeknownst to him, Sabrina is a Kensington who steps in to keep her younger half-sister from getting married off.
This story was packed with plot. It's got arranged marriage, forced proximity, touch her and die, enemies to lovers and of course spice.
While it's part of a series, you don't have to read the first one. I didn't and don't feel like I missed anything absolutely important.
We meet Sabrina who is unknowingly in the cross hairs of billionaire Langston Blackwell. Langston is arranged to marry a Kensington. Unbeknownst to him, Sabrina is a Kensington who steps in to keep her younger half-sister from getting married off.
This story was packed with plot. It's got arranged marriage, forced proximity, touch her and die, enemies to lovers and of course spice.
While it's part of a series, you don't have to read the first one. I didn't and don't feel like I missed anything absolutely important.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Uncut by Jennifer E. Smith is a heartfelt, slice-of-life novel that explores how love, timing, and personal growth intertwine. The story unfolds with warmth and emotional honesty, focusing on relationships that feel messy, real, and deeply human. Smith’s writing is gentle yet engaging, capturing quiet moments and meaningful connections without unnecessary drama. It’s an easy, immersive read that leaves you reflecting on the choices people make for love—and for themselves. Perfect for readers who enjoy romantic stories with depth and emotional authenticity.
January 10, 2026
A family obligation and an arranged marriage, quickly develops into a fantastic surprise.
Initially I thought Langston was going to be another cold, over dominating, over controlling MMC. However, I quickly became surprised by the fact there was more to him and he just needed the right partner to crack his shell and who better than a fiery red head to do just that!
The men of The Kings of Lakeshore and the women who challenge them are easily becoming my favorite of this world of characters from Chicago and I can’t wait to read the next one!!
Initially I thought Langston was going to be another cold, over dominating, over controlling MMC. However, I quickly became surprised by the fact there was more to him and he just needed the right partner to crack his shell and who better than a fiery red head to do just that!
The men of The Kings of Lakeshore and the women who challenge them are easily becoming my favorite of this world of characters from Chicago and I can’t wait to read the next one!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75 ⭐'s rounded up
Talk about instant connection and chemistry. Sabrina and have it in waves from the very first chapter! I love Sabrina and Langston all her sassy boss woman energy. She was an outstanding FMC that took no sh*t from anyone and protected everyone she cared about. Langston screams hot Alpha male, but the softer side that comes out with Sabrina will have you swooning. Who does not love when they say, "My Wife". Oh the claiming (while fanning myself). I wanted a little more at the end. I did receive a bonus chapter, however that just left me wanting even more!
Talk about instant connection and chemistry. Sabrina and have it in waves from the very first chapter! I love Sabrina and Langston all her sassy boss woman energy. She was an outstanding FMC that took no sh*t from anyone and protected everyone she cared about. Langston screams hot Alpha male, but the softer side that comes out with Sabrina will have you swooning. Who does not love when they say, "My Wife". Oh the claiming (while fanning myself). I wanted a little more at the end. I did receive a bonus chapter, however that just left me wanting even more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely love this book as I have with everything she's wrote, it is a arranged marriage, I mean things don't go slightly as arranged but do they truly ever, she has felt so out of place for a very long time and to watch her learn to figure out how to be loved, to watch him soften and allow himself to fall in love, and the banter and the fighting that they do with each other and the fact that they love to do with each other I really thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Review of advance copy
Langston has consented to an arranged marriage, a strategic alliance designed to unite two influential families. Although the initial agreement stipulated his union with Ariana, Sabrina has assumed her sister's position. The inherent tension arises from Sabrina's formidable and autonomous nature, which immediately conflicts with Langston's protective and authoritative demeanor. This is a worthwhile read; I particularly appreciate Sabrina's confident and spirited demeanor.
January 9, 2026
This one is my favorite book I’ve read from Jennifer Smith so far. I grinned like an idiot through almost every single page.
Sabrina & Langston are relationship goals! Their banter is perfection. Langston is the perfect man. Rich. Bossy but not overbearing. Sabrina is a good combination of independent and soft.
Sabrina & Langston are relationship goals! Their banter is perfection. Langston is the perfect man. Rich. Bossy but not overbearing. Sabrina is a good combination of independent and soft.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the opportunity to ARC read and this book was amazing! We have a marriage of convenience who fall in love! I realized this was the second book in the series so I will be reading the first one! Langston and Sabrina were so cute together! He is basically a golden retriever and I was here for it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have read all of Jennifer's books. This one is by far my favorite. I love the way the main characters poke and prod each other. I see something of my own story in the tale. The interactions between Langston and Sabrina are fire. Love that they ignite passions not realized within each other. Best one yet Jennifer.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is my second Jennifer Smith book so far and it is everything I look for in a romance book. The chemistry and banter between the main characters is perfection. The story is well put together. There is good growth for both characters. Langston is right now on my top five book boyfriend’s list. I can’t wait to dive into some more books by this author.
January 15, 2026
Absolutely love the back and forth between the MMC and FMC. Though this is the second in the series, it could be read as a standalone. I love that characters from her other books were incorporated. I love how Sabrina is independent and strong (literally if you know what I mean 👊🏻) but also caring for those important people.
January 18, 2026
Loved this one just like the last book! Sabrina called to me from the get go with her f you attitude. Reading her and Langston push against each other just to hide their feelings, I just knew one of them would have to crack first. Loved how they both gave in no matter how stubborn they were. Can’t wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Again this author did not disappoint. I am obsessed with the plot and vivid details. I could not put down, was so excited to get the chance to be picked for this adventure. There were times I laughed and cried, was able to get into the emotions of the characters so well!!!! Thank you so much
January 10, 2026
I’ve had the privilege to Arc read this book by Jennifer. I loved the dynamic between Langston and Sabrina. It was kind of like instant for Langston but as the time went on they both fell hard for each other. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews