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Embrace the Mall
Love is a lot more complicated than anything I learned in anatomy class.
After a rough semester in med school, I hung up my scrubs to sell lingerie at the mall. It should be easy. It’s almost Valentine’s Day, and I know a lot about the human body. But I’m just as nervous about handling underwear as I am with anything related to intimacy.
When cocky classmate Angel walks in to the shop, I’m so flustered, I accidentally fling a thong at him. He tests various perfumes on my skin, anticipation fluttering across my nerves with every caress. But I can’t take him seriously. He’s buying a gift for someone else and hitting on me. It isn’t like either of us have time to date, anyway.
By chance, I run into him working at a restaurant in the mall. When he spots me, he crashes into a dessert tray, but his smooth recovery wins me and his customers over. He’s smart, single, and dangerously seductive. Maybe he could teach me a few things about juggling responsibilities…and the joys of the human body.
The more I get to know him, the more confident I feel about embracing my future—and the more desperate I am to have him in it.
Embrace the Mall is a steamy romantic comedy in a series about people who work at the mall finding love amid the stress of holiday seasons. This book can be read as a standalone.
After a rough semester in med school, I hung up my scrubs to sell lingerie at the mall. It should be easy. It’s almost Valentine’s Day, and I know a lot about the human body. But I’m just as nervous about handling underwear as I am with anything related to intimacy.
When cocky classmate Angel walks in to the shop, I’m so flustered, I accidentally fling a thong at him. He tests various perfumes on my skin, anticipation fluttering across my nerves with every caress. But I can’t take him seriously. He’s buying a gift for someone else and hitting on me. It isn’t like either of us have time to date, anyway.
By chance, I run into him working at a restaurant in the mall. When he spots me, he crashes into a dessert tray, but his smooth recovery wins me and his customers over. He’s smart, single, and dangerously seductive. Maybe he could teach me a few things about juggling responsibilities…and the joys of the human body.
The more I get to know him, the more confident I feel about embracing my future—and the more desperate I am to have him in it.
Embrace the Mall is a steamy romantic comedy in a series about people who work at the mall finding love amid the stress of holiday seasons. This book can be read as a standalone.
- GenresRomance
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2026
About the author
Annelise Amore
6 books10 followersAnnelise Amore is a romance writer in the Midwest US, where she eats enough cheese it probably seeps into her stories. When she’s not wrapped up in rom-coms, she can be found gaming, wandering gardens, and analyzing pop culture snuggled in the safety of her husband’s arms or a bundle of fuzzy blankets.
Rumor has it, if you give her tea and sweets, she starts wiggling with glee. She’s the author of the Love at Westbrook Mall contemporary romance series, inspired by her time working in various retail and theater endeavors.
Rumor has it, if you give her tea and sweets, she starts wiggling with glee. She’s the author of the Love at Westbrook Mall contemporary romance series, inspired by her time working in various retail and theater endeavors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
February 11, 2026
Thank you Love Notes PR and Annelise Amore for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC copy.
This book was a perfect little romance with strong dynamics between all the characters. I loved seeing Tori’s growth and confidence. I do wish we got more of Angel or maybe a chapter of his at the end. He felt a bit mysterious but that may be because I haven’t read any of the others in the series so don’t know if we have previously met him.
I loved the Doctor/Medicine side of the story and will definitely be looking into other books with this vibe. The spice was the perfect amount and thoughtfully placed through out the book. The hot tub scene was probably my favourite.
Overall a 3.5 possibly could’ve been a 4 star if we had a bit longer with the characters. Throughly enjoyed and am very grateful once again to Love Notes PR and Annelise Amore! 🛍️💘😇
This book was a perfect little romance with strong dynamics between all the characters. I loved seeing Tori’s growth and confidence. I do wish we got more of Angel or maybe a chapter of his at the end. He felt a bit mysterious but that may be because I haven’t read any of the others in the series so don’t know if we have previously met him.
I loved the Doctor/Medicine side of the story and will definitely be looking into other books with this vibe. The spice was the perfect amount and thoughtfully placed through out the book. The hot tub scene was probably my favourite.
Overall a 3.5 possibly could’ve been a 4 star if we had a bit longer with the characters. Throughly enjoyed and am very grateful once again to Love Notes PR and Annelise Amore! 🛍️💘😇
February 6, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
This book was cute, cozy and fun while also touching on important topics, which I really appreciate!
We follow Tori throughout the book and get insight into her home life as well as her struggles with deciding what she wants to pursue in the future. I found this to be very relatable, especially at this point in my life.
Her and Angel have such a sweet connection and I loved them together 🥹
What to expect:
😇 Virgin/Playboy
🥰 “Good” Girl/ “Bad” Boy
👀 “Teach me”
💼 Workplace Romance
🧪 Women in STEM
💋 Dislike to Love
Thanks to Love Notes PR for the arc 💞
This book was cute, cozy and fun while also touching on important topics, which I really appreciate!
We follow Tori throughout the book and get insight into her home life as well as her struggles with deciding what she wants to pursue in the future. I found this to be very relatable, especially at this point in my life.
Her and Angel have such a sweet connection and I loved them together 🥹
What to expect:
😇 Virgin/Playboy
🥰 “Good” Girl/ “Bad” Boy
👀 “Teach me”
💼 Workplace Romance
🧪 Women in STEM
💋 Dislike to Love
Thanks to Love Notes PR for the arc 💞
April 19, 2026
Right from the very first sentence, I was entertained by Amore's quirky sense of humor and style. I'll admit I initially bought the book since I loved the idea of a med student FMC, and although that didn't come up too much since it focused more on Tori's burnout and working odd jobs to pay the bills, it ultimately didn't matter to me since I was charmed by the characters and the world (I especially adored Kat, so I'll definitely have to check out her book next!). I also really liked Tori's family, and how they felt realistic rather than sterile, as so many fictional families tend to read.
I did expect Angel to turn out to not be "fully onboard" with Tori because of his lothario reputation, but a plot point revealed at the end proves that was never truly a danger. Their relationship was the perfect amount of "sugar and spice" with the sweetness and heat, and the humor was fun and exactly the way I like it, so I would (and will) definitely read more by this author!
I did expect Angel to turn out to not be "fully onboard" with Tori because of his lothario reputation, but a plot point revealed at the end proves that was never truly a danger. Their relationship was the perfect amount of "sugar and spice" with the sweetness and heat, and the humor was fun and exactly the way I like it, so I would (and will) definitely read more by this author!
February 17, 2026
3.5 ⭐️.
I absolutely loved how this book balanced its cozy, fun atmosphere with meaningful themes. We get a real look into Tori’s life—not just her home dynamics, but the stress of figuring out her future. Tori’s internal struggle over her future felt very personal to me.
Also, Tori and Angel are so adorable, their connection felt so sweet.
I absolutely loved how this book balanced its cozy, fun atmosphere with meaningful themes. We get a real look into Tori’s life—not just her home dynamics, but the stress of figuring out her future. Tori’s internal struggle over her future felt very personal to me.
Also, Tori and Angel are so adorable, their connection felt so sweet.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
"I'd ruin you, if you'd let me" 😩🔥
🪽 Embrace the Mall 🪽
First ARC read of the year sent me back to Westbrook Mall 😁
I love returning to Annelise's world of squishy romance amongst retail workers that deserve their HEAs after all they deal with 🙌🏻🤣 It’s brutal out there 🫣
Tori is complex, insecure, and anxious. But she’s also smart, brave, and wears her heart on her sleeve 💘
Angel is a shameless flirt but also attentive, protective, and super romantic ❤️🔥
I was rooting for these two from the outset! They deserve peace and happiness amidst all the chaos 😅
I also LOVED how this book ties in with each of her other standalones. We're spoiled with Easter eggs in this book and it's only January 🤣🤩🐣
Thank you, as always, Annelise for letting me advance read for you 🫶🏻🫶🏻
🪽 Embrace the Mall 🪽
First ARC read of the year sent me back to Westbrook Mall 😁
I love returning to Annelise's world of squishy romance amongst retail workers that deserve their HEAs after all they deal with 🙌🏻🤣 It’s brutal out there 🫣
Tori is complex, insecure, and anxious. But she’s also smart, brave, and wears her heart on her sleeve 💘
Angel is a shameless flirt but also attentive, protective, and super romantic ❤️🔥
I was rooting for these two from the outset! They deserve peace and happiness amidst all the chaos 😅
I also LOVED how this book ties in with each of her other standalones. We're spoiled with Easter eggs in this book and it's only January 🤣🤩🐣
Thank you, as always, Annelise for letting me advance read for you 🫶🏻🫶🏻
February 8, 2026
2.5 ⭐️
I received an ARC courtesy of Love Notes PR
I want to preface this by saying I haven’t read any of the other books in the series, so this was my first introduction to the author and this world.
Overall, this book has some good bones. The premise of reconnecting with someone from your past, especially when both people are in very different places, is solid. There’s a missed connection energy that feels real and relatable, and on paper it’s the kind of setup that should work really well.
One of the stronger elements for me was Tori’s burnout storyline. Leaving medical school because she’s exhausted, disillusioned, and overwhelmed is something a lot of people can relate to. That sense of grieving the life you thought you were building while trying to figure out what comes next felt honest. The family drama layered on top of that worked well too and reinforced that feeling of when it rains it pours.
Where the book lost me a bit was in the romance. I never fully connected to Tori and Angel as a couple. The way Tori talks about Angel makes it seem like there was a deeper history or long standing yearning there, but the story never fully fills in those gaps. Their relationship moves quickly, and while I’m not opposed to fast moving romances, here it felt like there was missing emotional groundwork that would have made their connection more believable.
The medical school aspect also felt underused. Tori’s past as a med student is important, but beyond a few moments and the repeated catchphrase “oh scrubs!”, it didn’t add much texture to her character. Her burnout and identity shift were compelling enough on their own without needing that kind of reinforcement, and the catchphrase pulled me out of the story more than it added anything.
The weakest element for me was the harassing texts subplot. The absence of her sister’s baby daddy was already enough tension, so it felt odd that he would be targeting Tori instead. It also didn’t ring true. A man who is so uninterested in a relationship that he wouldn’t stick around for a baby is unlikely to harass someone else in her life. Especially since the book keeps telling us that Angel is some sort of Don Juan, it would have made far more sense, and created better friction, if that reputation had actually come into play instead of remaining something other characters just talked
.
This ended up landing as a light, easy read for me. There were elements I genuinely appreciated, especially the burnout themes and family dynamics, even if the story as a whole didn’t fully pull me in. If you’re looking for something breezy and low commitment, this works as a popcorn read. If you’re hoping for more depth or narrative weight, it may feel a bit thin.
I received an ARC courtesy of Love Notes PR
I want to preface this by saying I haven’t read any of the other books in the series, so this was my first introduction to the author and this world.
Overall, this book has some good bones. The premise of reconnecting with someone from your past, especially when both people are in very different places, is solid. There’s a missed connection energy that feels real and relatable, and on paper it’s the kind of setup that should work really well.
One of the stronger elements for me was Tori’s burnout storyline. Leaving medical school because she’s exhausted, disillusioned, and overwhelmed is something a lot of people can relate to. That sense of grieving the life you thought you were building while trying to figure out what comes next felt honest. The family drama layered on top of that worked well too and reinforced that feeling of when it rains it pours.
Where the book lost me a bit was in the romance. I never fully connected to Tori and Angel as a couple. The way Tori talks about Angel makes it seem like there was a deeper history or long standing yearning there, but the story never fully fills in those gaps. Their relationship moves quickly, and while I’m not opposed to fast moving romances, here it felt like there was missing emotional groundwork that would have made their connection more believable.
The medical school aspect also felt underused. Tori’s past as a med student is important, but beyond a few moments and the repeated catchphrase “oh scrubs!”, it didn’t add much texture to her character. Her burnout and identity shift were compelling enough on their own without needing that kind of reinforcement, and the catchphrase pulled me out of the story more than it added anything.
The weakest element for me was the harassing texts subplot. The absence of her sister’s baby daddy was already enough tension, so it felt odd that he would be targeting Tori instead. It also didn’t ring true. A man who is so uninterested in a relationship that he wouldn’t stick around for a baby is unlikely to harass someone else in her life. Especially since the book keeps telling us that Angel is some sort of Don Juan, it would have made far more sense, and created better friction, if that reputation had actually come into play instead of remaining something other characters just talked
.
This ended up landing as a light, easy read for me. There were elements I genuinely appreciated, especially the burnout themes and family dynamics, even if the story as a whole didn’t fully pull me in. If you’re looking for something breezy and low commitment, this works as a popcorn read. If you’re hoping for more depth or narrative weight, it may feel a bit thin.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Embrace the Mall ♾️
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Annelise Amore for trusting me with this ARC!❤️
Tori,paused her life and career,in order to move back with her family and help them figure everything out.Leading her to put her scrubs down and start selling lingerie in the mall.
This really boring chapter of her life,will suddenly take an other turn when Angel,her infuriating classmate,will get in the shop,and be really font with not only buying something but in her too.
What can I say?Oh,Boy!
Starting this story,felt so good!Valentine's Day themed,with funny moments since page 1 and got really fast,straight into the plot ,to the point that I was seriously LOCKED IN!
Getting into the characters,
The FMC,was🤌🏻 .
Our girl,Tori,is the definition of a selfless human.She literally put her family beyond her needs,and left her MED career in order to take care of things back home (did they deserve it?I do not think so,but this is a discussion for an other time).Continuing with T,she was cute,and funny aka the perfect main character for this story.
Angel,started as the cocky classmate and ended up as the perfect boyfriend with 0% red flags,(my boy,please teach real life men,thank you),However,as an individual,you could see how hard working and passionate he was for med school.While,he found the perfect way to balance that with time with Tori.
Their romance was deeply emotional,just as the 🌶️ scenes.Also,it is the romances that I could see them being transferred into the big screen,80% of the scenes were so cinematic!
As you understood,those two shared a perfect chemistry,and really came to each other's life at the right time.
Few paragraphs ago,I mentioned families.
I just hated EVERYONE.Both Angel's mother and Tori's whole family made me so mad.SO MAD.Where to start first?That they used her kindness,that they invaded her privacy and of course nothing is wrong!Tori you are making a mess out of nothing!
I just really wanted to dive into the book and get her out of here,while slapping everyone on they way out.However,I have to be fair,some people got their redemption arc,so things got way better in the end,but until we got to that point,I already had high blood pressure!
Ending,I think this story is perfect for everyone that needs a catch up read,with lovey-dovey vibes and a deep romance,and V-Day vibes!🌺
Out On Feb,6th 🥀
3 ⭐
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Annelise Amore for trusting me with this ARC!❤️
Tori,paused her life and career,in order to move back with her family and help them figure everything out.Leading her to put her scrubs down and start selling lingerie in the mall.
This really boring chapter of her life,will suddenly take an other turn when Angel,her infuriating classmate,will get in the shop,and be really font with not only buying something but in her too.
What can I say?Oh,Boy!
Starting this story,felt so good!Valentine's Day themed,with funny moments since page 1 and got really fast,straight into the plot ,to the point that I was seriously LOCKED IN!
Getting into the characters,
The FMC,was🤌🏻 .
Our girl,Tori,is the definition of a selfless human.She literally put her family beyond her needs,and left her MED career in order to take care of things back home (did they deserve it?I do not think so,but this is a discussion for an other time).Continuing with T,she was cute,and funny aka the perfect main character for this story.
Angel,started as the cocky classmate and ended up as the perfect boyfriend with 0% red flags,(my boy,please teach real life men,thank you),However,as an individual,you could see how hard working and passionate he was for med school.While,he found the perfect way to balance that with time with Tori.
Their romance was deeply emotional,just as the 🌶️ scenes.Also,it is the romances that I could see them being transferred into the big screen,80% of the scenes were so cinematic!
As you understood,those two shared a perfect chemistry,and really came to each other's life at the right time.
Few paragraphs ago,I mentioned families.
I just hated EVERYONE.Both Angel's mother and Tori's whole family made me so mad.SO MAD.Where to start first?That they used her kindness,that they invaded her privacy and of course nothing is wrong!Tori you are making a mess out of nothing!
I just really wanted to dive into the book and get her out of here,while slapping everyone on they way out.However,I have to be fair,some people got their redemption arc,so things got way better in the end,but until we got to that point,I already had high blood pressure!
Ending,I think this story is perfect for everyone that needs a catch up read,with lovey-dovey vibes and a deep romance,and V-Day vibes!🌺
Out On Feb,6th 🥀
3 ⭐
February 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️✨
*Disclaimer - this is the first book in the series that I read, so my opinions only gloss over this book specifically*
Embrace the Mall was a cute, cheeky, rom-com about Victoria and Angel, two characters who seemed to have a clashing history when they were students in med school.
Tori had to get a job at The Closette after an accident and a pregnant sister kept her hands full, causing her to drop her classes and return home.
Angel was perceived to be a playboy who got all the girls he wanted with his looks and charms. He also worked at the mall, Tori discovered, as a server at a restaurant that was known for its cakes.
My favorite thing about this book was the dialogue and banter between the characters. Angel had me geeking and blushing with every peck and promise he gave to Tori. It helped me keep my bearings when the story was reaching a lull point (which happened more than I like to admit).
I wish we got to see Angel be a playboy for longer. I wish there was a bit of a string along, at least for the first quarter of the book or so that showed how much of a playboy he USED to be before he found Tori (we semi get this with the girl in a bar, but Angel debunked it when it was a potential client for his mom). It felt like these characters fell into each other very fast within a couple of chapters and only had a small disagreement towards the end that was ironed out the next chapter.
As much as I love the highest of highs between the characters, I also crave their lowest of lows. I want to watch them work and build something together, especially when there’s a playboy who knows everything and an innocent FMC that hasn’t ever been in a relationship before.
*Disclaimer - this is the first book in the series that I read, so my opinions only gloss over this book specifically*
Embrace the Mall was a cute, cheeky, rom-com about Victoria and Angel, two characters who seemed to have a clashing history when they were students in med school.
Tori had to get a job at The Closette after an accident and a pregnant sister kept her hands full, causing her to drop her classes and return home.
Angel was perceived to be a playboy who got all the girls he wanted with his looks and charms. He also worked at the mall, Tori discovered, as a server at a restaurant that was known for its cakes.
My favorite thing about this book was the dialogue and banter between the characters. Angel had me geeking and blushing with every peck and promise he gave to Tori. It helped me keep my bearings when the story was reaching a lull point (which happened more than I like to admit).
I wish we got to see Angel be a playboy for longer. I wish there was a bit of a string along, at least for the first quarter of the book or so that showed how much of a playboy he USED to be before he found Tori (we semi get this with the girl in a bar, but Angel debunked it when it was a potential client for his mom). It felt like these characters fell into each other very fast within a couple of chapters and only had a small disagreement towards the end that was ironed out the next chapter.
As much as I love the highest of highs between the characters, I also crave their lowest of lows. I want to watch them work and build something together, especially when there’s a playboy who knows everything and an innocent FMC that hasn’t ever been in a relationship before.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2026
This book was such a fun, short read for this V-day season🩷
We get virgin x playboy, good girl x “bad” boy, workplace tension, women in STEM, and that delicious “teach me” energy… but wrapped in a genuinely soft, romantic story that just hit the spot this Valentine’s Day.
Our girl is smart, struggling, and trying to figure out who she is after med school knocks her confidence down a few pegs. Watching her rebuild herself (not just academically but EMOTIONALLY) was honestly so empowering. I loved that even in a rom-com setting, her growth felt real. Women in STEM are still allowed to be insecure, messy, and brilliant.
And Angel… listen. I thought he was going to be your typical cocky flirt. But the more layers we got, the more I melted. He’s charming, sure. Smooth? Unfortunately yes. But he’s also patient, attentive, and so unexpectedly supportive. The tension between them is playful and flirty, but underneath it is this steady undercurrent of respect and admiration that makes the romance feel earned.
The mall setting around Valentine’s Day made everything extra cute and festive, but the real heart of the story is watching two ambitious people realize love doesn’t have to derail their dreams… it can actually make them braver.
It’s steamy, yes. It’s funny. It’s blush-inducing. But it’s also soft in a way that sneaks up on you.
My favorite things about this book:
✅ dislike-to-love banter
✅ workplace proximity
✅ flustered “good” girl energy
✅ a confident hero who secretly falls first
✅ smart women figuring their lives out
10/10 would let him test perfume on my skin too. 🫣🤭
We get virgin x playboy, good girl x “bad” boy, workplace tension, women in STEM, and that delicious “teach me” energy… but wrapped in a genuinely soft, romantic story that just hit the spot this Valentine’s Day.
Our girl is smart, struggling, and trying to figure out who she is after med school knocks her confidence down a few pegs. Watching her rebuild herself (not just academically but EMOTIONALLY) was honestly so empowering. I loved that even in a rom-com setting, her growth felt real. Women in STEM are still allowed to be insecure, messy, and brilliant.
And Angel… listen. I thought he was going to be your typical cocky flirt. But the more layers we got, the more I melted. He’s charming, sure. Smooth? Unfortunately yes. But he’s also patient, attentive, and so unexpectedly supportive. The tension between them is playful and flirty, but underneath it is this steady undercurrent of respect and admiration that makes the romance feel earned.
The mall setting around Valentine’s Day made everything extra cute and festive, but the real heart of the story is watching two ambitious people realize love doesn’t have to derail their dreams… it can actually make them braver.
It’s steamy, yes. It’s funny. It’s blush-inducing. But it’s also soft in a way that sneaks up on you.
My favorite things about this book:
✅ dislike-to-love banter
✅ workplace proximity
✅ flustered “good” girl energy
✅ a confident hero who secretly falls first
✅ smart women figuring their lives out
10/10 would let him test perfume on my skin too. 🫣🤭
February 13, 2026
You will want to Embrace this book, by author Annelise Amore! Tory and Angel first met in Med school. There are things that happened with Tory, that ends up with her working at a lingerie store in the Mall. where she runs into Angel, shopping for perfume "for the woman he loves."
Tory then runs into him, working as a server in a cake shop in the same Mall. Tory's sister and her boyfriend work in the Mall too. Tory accepts an invitation for a work get together at a local bar, where it ends up that she and Angel start dating.
Angel has his own scars, which makes Tory realize there is more to him than the playboy image he portrays.
The story has a message that life isn't always linear, what we often think of as failures, are really new opportunities in the end, and that sometimes you just have to Embrace the Mall to find the next step in your journey.
Tory starts out a virgin, Angel is not. There are open door intimate scenes, yet the focus is on the relationship.
There's an undercurrent of mystery that I would like fleshed out more, like is there really mafia involvement, I have questions about Angel's mother, who the author did a wonderful job of making me despise by the way
I am trying to not disclose any spoilers because I am hoping for a series here, so that we get more of Jen and her Baby Daddy's story and Zero too, please.
This author is new to me, and I have to say that after reading this book, I am looking for more books by Annelise Amore.
Thank you for a wonderful story.
Tory then runs into him, working as a server in a cake shop in the same Mall. Tory's sister and her boyfriend work in the Mall too. Tory accepts an invitation for a work get together at a local bar, where it ends up that she and Angel start dating.
Angel has his own scars, which makes Tory realize there is more to him than the playboy image he portrays.
The story has a message that life isn't always linear, what we often think of as failures, are really new opportunities in the end, and that sometimes you just have to Embrace the Mall to find the next step in your journey.
Tory starts out a virgin, Angel is not. There are open door intimate scenes, yet the focus is on the relationship.
There's an undercurrent of mystery that I would like fleshed out more, like is there really mafia involvement, I have questions about Angel's mother, who the author did a wonderful job of making me despise by the way
I am trying to not disclose any spoilers because I am hoping for a series here, so that we get more of Jen and her Baby Daddy's story and Zero too, please.
This author is new to me, and I have to say that after reading this book, I am looking for more books by Annelise Amore.
Thank you for a wonderful story.
February 14, 2026
Embrace The Mall By Annelise Amore ARC Review
This is my first time reading this series and I think I have to start reading the whole series for the first time as this left me with nothing but happiness and excitement as this was a raging 5 star read for me!
I was so happy to enjoy this it gave me so excitement to begin this read it got hooked and engaged and felt like they were perfect matches for each other that were common sense. I really enjoyed how funny and interesting this read was and I think that kept me engaged throughout the book.
Tori, was exciting to read about and it was hilarious to watch the entertainment between her and Angel I loved the chemistry and how they each had great engagement between them and how each of them put effort into making everything exciting to them but what I was liking most was the way she was figuring out her place in the world and the anxiety rep that felt relatable to me and it was such a great read!
This was first time reading from this point of view and it left me thinking how I want to read more of these style books as it was so fulfilling to read about them and see their impact against other and how they set their own ambition and goals to be with each other.
Angel, was a favourite main character of mine because I loved how playful he was and the way he spoke to Tori it brought me joy to read about his times flirting and charming, without being obnoxious it felt like they belonged together.
This is my first time reading this series and I think I have to start reading the whole series for the first time as this left me with nothing but happiness and excitement as this was a raging 5 star read for me!
I was so happy to enjoy this it gave me so excitement to begin this read it got hooked and engaged and felt like they were perfect matches for each other that were common sense. I really enjoyed how funny and interesting this read was and I think that kept me engaged throughout the book.
Tori, was exciting to read about and it was hilarious to watch the entertainment between her and Angel I loved the chemistry and how they each had great engagement between them and how each of them put effort into making everything exciting to them but what I was liking most was the way she was figuring out her place in the world and the anxiety rep that felt relatable to me and it was such a great read!
This was first time reading from this point of view and it left me thinking how I want to read more of these style books as it was so fulfilling to read about them and see their impact against other and how they set their own ambition and goals to be with each other.
Angel, was a favourite main character of mine because I loved how playful he was and the way he spoke to Tori it brought me joy to read about his times flirting and charming, without being obnoxious it felt like they belonged together.
February 11, 2026
Thank you LoveNotesPR and Annelise Amore for the gifted eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Embrace the Mall is the 6th installment in the Love at Westbrook Mall series and it brings back two of my favourite characters from the series, Kat and Victor, while introducing two new ones, Tori (Kat's sister) and Angel.
I love this entire series because the books are cozy, spicy and filled with relatable retail chaos! This one is no exception and continues to capture that specific 'mall culture' magic (the nostalgia is real). Anyone who has worked at VS will relate to Tori (iykyk) While Haunt the Mall, Kat and Victor's book, gave us all the spooky Halloween vibes, this one feels like a warm embrace (get it?) on Valentine's Day.
While this book is sweeter than candy for the most part, Tori's family life is messy and adds some angst to the story, but I actually quite like that the angst isn't coming from Angel, but something external to their love story. Speaking of Angel, I would have loved his POV! He's such an interesting character, I couldn't help but wonder what was going on inside his head (maybe we could get a bonus epilogue short story down the line?)
If you enjoy romances with a strong sense of place, witty banter and plenty of heart (and spice!), you definitely need to add this to your TBR!
Embrace the Mall is the 6th installment in the Love at Westbrook Mall series and it brings back two of my favourite characters from the series, Kat and Victor, while introducing two new ones, Tori (Kat's sister) and Angel.
I love this entire series because the books are cozy, spicy and filled with relatable retail chaos! This one is no exception and continues to capture that specific 'mall culture' magic (the nostalgia is real). Anyone who has worked at VS will relate to Tori (iykyk) While Haunt the Mall, Kat and Victor's book, gave us all the spooky Halloween vibes, this one feels like a warm embrace (get it?) on Valentine's Day.
While this book is sweeter than candy for the most part, Tori's family life is messy and adds some angst to the story, but I actually quite like that the angst isn't coming from Angel, but something external to their love story. Speaking of Angel, I would have loved his POV! He's such an interesting character, I couldn't help but wonder what was going on inside his head (maybe we could get a bonus epilogue short story down the line?)
If you enjoy romances with a strong sense of place, witty banter and plenty of heart (and spice!), you definitely need to add this to your TBR!
February 19, 2026
Thank you love notes pr and author annelise for sending me the arc
The mall setting around Valentine’s Day made everything extra cute and festive, but the real heart of the story is watching two ambitious people realize love doesn’t have to derail their dreams… it can actually make them braver.
The medical school aspect also felt underused. Tori’s past as a med student is important but we get very rare glimpses of it other than her difficult time made her quit and how she was brilliant at her studies before that
The way Tori talks about Angel makes it seem like there was a deeper history or long standing yearning there, but the story never fully fills in those gaps. All the while I was reading, it was confirmed that they knew the other existed but never talked prior to his visit at the store but the story reads as if they were acquainted in the past. That was a little confusing for me.
One of the stronger elements for me was Tori’s burnout storyline. Leaving medical school because she’s exhausted, disillusioned, and overwhelmed is something a lot of people can relate to. That sense of grieving the life you thought you were building while trying to figure out what comes next felt honest. The family drama layered on top of that worked well . The way her mom, dad needed a drama to see how much tori is suffering at the hands of her older sister really made me mad.
The mall setting around Valentine’s Day made everything extra cute and festive, but the real heart of the story is watching two ambitious people realize love doesn’t have to derail their dreams… it can actually make them braver.
The medical school aspect also felt underused. Tori’s past as a med student is important but we get very rare glimpses of it other than her difficult time made her quit and how she was brilliant at her studies before that
The way Tori talks about Angel makes it seem like there was a deeper history or long standing yearning there, but the story never fully fills in those gaps. All the while I was reading, it was confirmed that they knew the other existed but never talked prior to his visit at the store but the story reads as if they were acquainted in the past. That was a little confusing for me.
One of the stronger elements for me was Tori’s burnout storyline. Leaving medical school because she’s exhausted, disillusioned, and overwhelmed is something a lot of people can relate to. That sense of grieving the life you thought you were building while trying to figure out what comes next felt honest. The family drama layered on top of that worked well . The way her mom, dad needed a drama to see how much tori is suffering at the hands of her older sister really made me mad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2026
Do you ever read something and you hate it and want to DNF? Totally been there. But have you ever read something and hate it so much you have to hate read the rest of it? Because I had never understood that concept until this book. I wanted to give it the benefit for the doubt so hard and I tried but so much of it just felt wrong.
A couple things off the top of my head. I don’t know how old these characters were supposed to be but they felt 15. The author would have then react in extremely juvenile ways and then within a breath start talking like they had years of therapy?! The main characters insecurities didn’t feel authentic but rather pathetic. I wanted to like her but I just couldn’t. The mmc was better but still I didn’t like either of them.
The sister Jen was horrible. The parents: disgusting. The sister, Kat, was better and her boyfriend. So they were a nice little relief.
But some of the dialogue and the supposed character development. All in all it was a waste of my time and I wish I didn’t read that
A couple things off the top of my head. I don’t know how old these characters were supposed to be but they felt 15. The author would have then react in extremely juvenile ways and then within a breath start talking like they had years of therapy?! The main characters insecurities didn’t feel authentic but rather pathetic. I wanted to like her but I just couldn’t. The mmc was better but still I didn’t like either of them.
The sister Jen was horrible. The parents: disgusting. The sister, Kat, was better and her boyfriend. So they were a nice little relief.
But some of the dialogue and the supposed character development. All in all it was a waste of my time and I wish I didn’t read that
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was too sweet that lead to a happy surprise when reading. First off main character has a great name which is my name aka Victoria & I do go by Tori too! And as a former mall worker this book earned brownie points especially as a former VS worker too, working at that kind of store the folding stunk.
I enjoyed this book, but it fell kind of off for me personally. The scenes with the sisters and Victor here & there, just jumped around & weren't needed. Also feel like this read needed a prologue to introduce us to Victoria & Angel's back story. Would have been better if we had a dual POV too cause Angel seems like a fun character to see what goes on in his head. It just needed more connection and weren't real enemies to begin with.
However, if you want a cute & instant love story that just a feel-good read this is it, thanks for the ARC Love Notes PR! Even though it is not my cup of tea, doesn't mean it could be your cup of tea.
I enjoyed this book, but it fell kind of off for me personally. The scenes with the sisters and Victor here & there, just jumped around & weren't needed. Also feel like this read needed a prologue to introduce us to Victoria & Angel's back story. Would have been better if we had a dual POV too cause Angel seems like a fun character to see what goes on in his head. It just needed more connection and weren't real enemies to begin with.
However, if you want a cute & instant love story that just a feel-good read this is it, thanks for the ARC Love Notes PR! Even though it is not my cup of tea, doesn't mean it could be your cup of tea.
Review of advance copy received from Author
MMC/MFC: Angel and Tori
This was a bit of a hard one to review because I really struggled to connect in the beginning, and that sets the tone.
I’m not one to DNF, unless there are some significant issues, so I powered on.
Once you get through it and start to know the characters, you’ll start to fall in love.
Tori is selfless, pausing her schooling to help, and effectively planning to end her medical career… And need I say that her family were pretty gross.
Angel was a bit of a sweetie - he started out a little cocky, and he ended up being an amazing book boyfriend. Like Tori, the family…. not the best.
Together, they were very cute, but I just wish that we got Angel’s voice in this, because I would have loved to have gotten his side of the events.
This was a bit of a hard one to review because I really struggled to connect in the beginning, and that sets the tone.
I’m not one to DNF, unless there are some significant issues, so I powered on.
Once you get through it and start to know the characters, you’ll start to fall in love.
Tori is selfless, pausing her schooling to help, and effectively planning to end her medical career… And need I say that her family were pretty gross.
Angel was a bit of a sweetie - he started out a little cocky, and he ended up being an amazing book boyfriend. Like Tori, the family…. not the best.
Together, they were very cute, but I just wish that we got Angel’s voice in this, because I would have loved to have gotten his side of the events.
February 7, 2026
Embrace the Mall is a cute little romcom that explores the fun (and chaos) of surviving life, figuring out where you fit in the world, and learning how to navigate dysfunctional families.
Tori is the FMC we follow on her journey of healing from trauma, finding herself, and learning how to love for the first time. Her and Angel are absolutely adorable together, and I really loved watching their relationship grow as they both try to figure out how to “do” relationships.
Overall, this was a fun, easy read with heart and charm. 💖
Tropes:
✨ Steamy workplace romance
✨ Women in STEM
✨ Good girl / bad boy
✨ “Teach me” vibes
✨ Dressing room encounters
✨ First-time love
✨ Healing from trauma
✨ Romantic growth & self-discovery
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tori is the FMC we follow on her journey of healing from trauma, finding herself, and learning how to love for the first time. Her and Angel are absolutely adorable together, and I really loved watching their relationship grow as they both try to figure out how to “do” relationships.
Overall, this was a fun, easy read with heart and charm. 💖
Tropes:
✨ Steamy workplace romance
✨ Women in STEM
✨ Good girl / bad boy
✨ “Teach me” vibes
✨ Dressing room encounters
✨ First-time love
✨ Healing from trauma
✨ Romantic growth & self-discovery
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 10, 2026
ARC review-
I want to preface this by saying I didn’t read the first books in this series, so maybe I would’ve felt differently if I read the others.
Good notes-
The description of Tori’s burnout and the understanding of Angel’s depression were some of my favorite parts of this story. They both have some dark issues but seem to find light with each other.
Bad notes-
Tori’s sister Jen is a complete bitch and her family not doing anything until it’s too late for both Tori and Kat, not okay at all.
Angel and Tori’s romance was very confusing. She seemed like she was completely infatuated with him, but also at the same time wasn’t? Their romance just never truly clicked.
Thank you for the ARC opportunity!
I want to preface this by saying I didn’t read the first books in this series, so maybe I would’ve felt differently if I read the others.
Good notes-
The description of Tori’s burnout and the understanding of Angel’s depression were some of my favorite parts of this story. They both have some dark issues but seem to find light with each other.
Bad notes-
Tori’s sister Jen is a complete bitch and her family not doing anything until it’s too late for both Tori and Kat, not okay at all.
Angel and Tori’s romance was very confusing. She seemed like she was completely infatuated with him, but also at the same time wasn’t? Their romance just never truly clicked.
Thank you for the ARC opportunity!
February 14, 2026
I was given the opportunity of an eARC for this book from LoveNotesPR and I thank them for always giving me suggestions that fit perfectly for what I’m looking for! I’ve been crazy busy with trying to figure out school life as a single mom of two. But I finished this book right on time for Valentine’s Day! Honestly this book was really good! Being someone who used to work in retail there was so many relatable things in this book that had me thinking about times when similar things happened to me. I quite enjoyed the messy-ness of Tori’s family life and it made me realize that everyone’s life is messy, even fictional character. All in all I will be going back and reading the rest of the series!
February 15, 2026
I loved getting to finally read Tori’s story and how she finally found herself and stopped being the nice one that everyone could push around.
This story was sweet and naughty at the same time and didnt shy away from some difficult family dynamics and situations. I loved that Tori and Angel were both each others firsts in some way.
I do with Tori’s burn out as well as tge threatening texts where explored further but maybe that will come up in Nother book in the series.
Over all if you are looking for a quick holiday read with just the right amount out tension and strife this is the book for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story was sweet and naughty at the same time and didnt shy away from some difficult family dynamics and situations. I loved that Tori and Angel were both each others firsts in some way.
I do with Tori’s burn out as well as tge threatening texts where explored further but maybe that will come up in Nother book in the series.
Over all if you are looking for a quick holiday read with just the right amount out tension and strife this is the book for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐ 3.5 stars
🌶️ 1.5 chili peppers
This one was… fine. Cute, quick, and easy to read, but ultimately a little meh for me.
The vibe skewed more juvenile than I expected, with a very innocent FMC and an almost instant-connection romance that felt more high-school than adult. It’s light, low-stress, and approachable—definitely not bad—but I kept waiting for a bit more emotional depth or tension that never quite landed.
If you’re in the mood for something super soft, simple, and breezy, this might work for you. It just didn’t fully hit for me.
🎧 Song that sounds like this book: “Be Sweet” – Japanese Breakfast
🌶️ 1.5 chili peppers
This one was… fine. Cute, quick, and easy to read, but ultimately a little meh for me.
The vibe skewed more juvenile than I expected, with a very innocent FMC and an almost instant-connection romance that felt more high-school than adult. It’s light, low-stress, and approachable—definitely not bad—but I kept waiting for a bit more emotional depth or tension that never quite landed.
If you’re in the mood for something super soft, simple, and breezy, this might work for you. It just didn’t fully hit for me.
🎧 Song that sounds like this book: “Be Sweet” – Japanese Breakfast
February 7, 2026
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐥
𝐁𝐲 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐀𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟔𝐭𝐡
- - -
Read this if you like:
□ Virgin/Playboy
□ “Good” Girl/ “Bad” Boy
□ “Teach me”
□ Workplace Romance
□ Women in STEM
□ Dislike to Love
I am not sure how to feel after reading this book. I have a lot of mixed feelings. The beginning of the book was quite awkward and a bit bizarre? I thought the relationship between the main characters was awkward and did not feel those sparks. Don't get me wrong, there were cute moments but some dialogues just felt so strange. Sadly, this book was not for me.
Thank you Love Notes PR for the ARC.
𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐥
𝐁𝐲 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐀𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟔𝐭𝐡
- - -
Read this if you like:
□ Virgin/Playboy
□ “Good” Girl/ “Bad” Boy
□ “Teach me”
□ Workplace Romance
□ Women in STEM
□ Dislike to Love
I am not sure how to feel after reading this book. I have a lot of mixed feelings. The beginning of the book was quite awkward and a bit bizarre? I thought the relationship between the main characters was awkward and did not feel those sparks. Don't get me wrong, there were cute moments but some dialogues just felt so strange. Sadly, this book was not for me.
Thank you Love Notes PR for the ARC.
February 17, 2026
Thank you to Love Notes PR and Annelise Amore for this ARC book!
This was such a fun, cozy read—equal parts spice, family chaos, and heartfelt moments. Tori is the ultimate people pleaser, while Angel is busy wrestling with his own issues… yet somehow always finds time to make sure Tori is very well taken care of.
I really appreciated the thoughtful mental‑health representation woven into the story, and there were definitely a few swoon‑worthy lines that made me pause and smile. It’s the kind of book that balances heat with heart, and it left me wanting just a little more time with these characters.
"Hearts can be complicated. But mine belongs to you".
3 stars!
This was such a fun, cozy read—equal parts spice, family chaos, and heartfelt moments. Tori is the ultimate people pleaser, while Angel is busy wrestling with his own issues… yet somehow always finds time to make sure Tori is very well taken care of.
I really appreciated the thoughtful mental‑health representation woven into the story, and there were definitely a few swoon‑worthy lines that made me pause and smile. It’s the kind of book that balances heat with heart, and it left me wanting just a little more time with these characters.
"Hearts can be complicated. But mine belongs to you".
3 stars!
February 6, 2026
Very cute and extremely sweet book - almost too sweet. Maybe the characters were a little too good at communicating, because I found myself wanting a bit more resistance from them. It felt like they didn’t have to fight enough for their relationship; it came a little too easily.
That said, Tori and Angel (yes, Angel) are an achingly sweet couple who fall head over heels for each other almost immediately. If you’re in the mood for a sweet rom-com with a side dose of family dysfunction, this book is for you!
That said, Tori and Angel (yes, Angel) are an achingly sweet couple who fall head over heels for each other almost immediately. If you’re in the mood for a sweet rom-com with a side dose of family dysfunction, this book is for you!
February 13, 2026
ARC Review
This is the first work of Annelise that I have read.
I loved how I was able to relate to Tori. Her dilemma with deciding with her life, her decisions in the future - it really resonated with me on a personal level.
While I loved Angel and Tori, I wish we could have gotten Angel's POV too.
The story was cozy, it was funny at some point, the spice was definitely there, and overall, reading this was an enjoyable experience and I will definitely check out Annelise's other works.
This is the first work of Annelise that I have read.
I loved how I was able to relate to Tori. Her dilemma with deciding with her life, her decisions in the future - it really resonated with me on a personal level.
While I loved Angel and Tori, I wish we could have gotten Angel's POV too.
The story was cozy, it was funny at some point, the spice was definitely there, and overall, reading this was an enjoyable experience and I will definitely check out Annelise's other works.
February 14, 2026
Thank you to Love Notes and the author for early access.
This book was just okay to me. I liked the relationship between the FMC and MMC, but it seemed a little childish. I remember the first time being in love with someone with all the feelings but it was just too much going on. Between her job, family drama, meeting a new guy when never being in a relationship before, and trying to figure out if medical school was for her it was just a lot to keep up with.
This was my first book by this author and in this series. I would recommend if you were looking for a quick read.
This book was just okay to me. I liked the relationship between the FMC and MMC, but it seemed a little childish. I remember the first time being in love with someone with all the feelings but it was just too much going on. Between her job, family drama, meeting a new guy when never being in a relationship before, and trying to figure out if medical school was for her it was just a lot to keep up with.
This was my first book by this author and in this series. I would recommend if you were looking for a quick read.
February 4, 2026
A very sweet rom com about Tori and Angel.
They’re classmates who find each other work in the same mall during the holiday season.
I loved their connection and, above all, how good they are at communicating. Because it was their first relationship, they are really extraordinary.
A very cute book but with emotional depth, sexual curiosity/experimentation and mental health rep.
Proud of Tori journey to find her way!
They’re classmates who find each other work in the same mall during the holiday season.
I loved their connection and, above all, how good they are at communicating. Because it was their first relationship, they are really extraordinary.
A very cute book but with emotional depth, sexual curiosity/experimentation and mental health rep.
Proud of Tori journey to find her way!
February 10, 2026
ARC REVIEW❤️🩷
3.5⭐️ I really enjoyed this. This was my introduction into the Westbrook mall series and honestly I didn’t have to read any of the other books to know what was going on. I really enjoyed the characters, when I first heard pigeon as a pet name I want sure what to think but I actually didn’t mind it at all. I was rooting for Tori the entire time and so glad she got her happily ever after.
3.5⭐️ I really enjoyed this. This was my introduction into the Westbrook mall series and honestly I didn’t have to read any of the other books to know what was going on. I really enjoyed the characters, when I first heard pigeon as a pet name I want sure what to think but I actually didn’t mind it at all. I was rooting for Tori the entire time and so glad she got her happily ever after.
February 11, 2026
thank you to love notes pr for allowing me to read an arc copy of this book! 💗
‘embrace the mall’ is the fifth book in this series but the first book i read and it didn’t disappoint! i could feel the chemistry between angel and tori, they are vv cute together and there was a perfect balance of spice and romance!
i would definitely be keen to read the rest of the series, especially kat and victor’s story as would like to learn more about them ☺️
‘embrace the mall’ is the fifth book in this series but the first book i read and it didn’t disappoint! i could feel the chemistry between angel and tori, they are vv cute together and there was a perfect balance of spice and romance!
i would definitely be keen to read the rest of the series, especially kat and victor’s story as would like to learn more about them ☺️
February 12, 2026
I received this book as an ARC read. Posting this I realized it’s the 5 in a series but you don’t have to read the other books to enjoy it. Tori has a lot going on in her life when she runs into an old classmate. With his help and the support of her sister she is able to overcome her struggles and become who she is meant to be. The relationship between the two main characters is so cute and Angle is the sweetest guy. As always no spoilers you’ll have to read the book if you want more details.
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