What do you think?
Rate this book
A Lock Story #1
Love Locked In
She writes love stories. He’s afraid to live one.
In Holiday Ridge, a love that survives Lock Night is a love worth keeping.
Maggie Welch writes happily-ever-afters for a living, but when it comes to her own heart, she’s wonderfully unlucky. A best-selling romance author with a failed marriage living in a town full of promises she no longer believes in, Maggie has sworn off love… even as she watches couples lock theirs in at Promise Pond.
Dermot Aldridge has built his life on control. A quiet, distant doctor with a bruised heart and a deep love of romance novels, he prefers the safety of books, his dog, and solitude. Love is something he reads about… not something he’ll ever risk again.
Until a freak accident involving a ladder, a concussion, and a very unfortunate stone sculpture throws Maggie straight into Dermot’s arms.
Forced proximity turns into late-night conversations, stolen glances, and a connection neither of them expected. But with Lock Night approaching and both of them carrying scars from the past, opening their hearts may be the biggest risk of all.
Because in Holiday Ridge, love isn’t just promised.
It hangs on a fence as a constant reminder…
Is this forever?
Or just an empty promise?
In Holiday Ridge, a love that survives Lock Night is a love worth keeping.
Maggie Welch writes happily-ever-afters for a living, but when it comes to her own heart, she’s wonderfully unlucky. A best-selling romance author with a failed marriage living in a town full of promises she no longer believes in, Maggie has sworn off love… even as she watches couples lock theirs in at Promise Pond.
Dermot Aldridge has built his life on control. A quiet, distant doctor with a bruised heart and a deep love of romance novels, he prefers the safety of books, his dog, and solitude. Love is something he reads about… not something he’ll ever risk again.
Until a freak accident involving a ladder, a concussion, and a very unfortunate stone sculpture throws Maggie straight into Dermot’s arms.
Forced proximity turns into late-night conversations, stolen glances, and a connection neither of them expected. But with Lock Night approaching and both of them carrying scars from the past, opening their hearts may be the biggest risk of all.
Because in Holiday Ridge, love isn’t just promised.
It hangs on a fence as a constant reminder…
Is this forever?
Or just an empty promise?
- GenresRomance
120 pages, ebook
Published February 14, 2026
15 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Toni Aleo
85 books6,731 followersWALL STREET JOURNAL, NEW YORK TIMES AND USA TODAY BEST SELLING AUTHOR TONI ALEO IS AN AUTHOR YOU CAN'T MISS!
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
make sure to Join my Mailing List: https://www.subscribepage.com/toniale...
My name is Toni aleo and I'm a #PredHead, #sherrio, #potterhead, and part of the #familybusiness!
I am also a wife to my amazing husband, mother of a wrestler and a gymnast, and also a fur momma to Phoebe, Gaston el Papillon & Winston.
You can usually find me hollering for the whole Nashville Predators since I'll never give my heart to one player again. When I'm not in the gym getting swole, I'm usually writing, trying to make my dreams a reality or being a taxi for my kids. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter, Supernatural, Disney and anything that sparkles! I'm pretty sure I was Belle in a past life and if I could be on any show it would be supernatural so I can hunt with Sam and Dean.
Also, could I LOVE hockey anymore?
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
February 18, 2026
A start of another new must-get series from Toni Aleo - and this one's a perfect read for February. It's a short novella - really I *could* have read it in one sitting - but I wanted to savor it. It's a sweet and spicy romance - Dermot and Maggie were fun characters. And it made me wanted to meet more of these small town characters and read their stories.
Maggie is a successful romance writer. Dermot is a typical small town doctor, running his practice and living a quiet life with his dog and his book. When Maggie is involved in a freak accident involving a risqué decoration at the romance book shop her family runs, it's Dermot to the rescue. He lives and works next door, so they've seen each other but neither has made a move. The chemistry between them worked well and I loved their banter and texts. It comes to a steamy conclusion that will have you fanning yourself - hot, hot, hot.
I am looking forward to more from Holiday Ridge.
Maggie is a successful romance writer. Dermot is a typical small town doctor, running his practice and living a quiet life with his dog and his book. When Maggie is involved in a freak accident involving a risqué decoration at the romance book shop her family runs, it's Dermot to the rescue. He lives and works next door, so they've seen each other but neither has made a move. The chemistry between them worked well and I loved their banter and texts. It comes to a steamy conclusion that will have you fanning yourself - hot, hot, hot.
I am looking forward to more from Holiday Ridge.
February 16, 2026
What a fantastic surprise this novella was, and right at Valentines Day! This was a quick read (I read it in one sitting) and is about romance writer Maggie and small town doctor Dermot. While Maggie's book store is right next to the doctor's office, these two have not gotten to know each other in the year they have been next door, but a freaky accident in the bookstar brings Dr. Aldridge to the book store. Seriously, one of the funniest meet cutes ever!! Bold (and slightly concussed Maggie calling Dermot Mr. Does-My-Body-Good and his blushing cheeks over the talk of the statue that brough Maggie down is too much!
Instant sparks are there, but while Maggie is ready to jump in with both feet, Dr. Dermot is a little apprehensive based on some bad relationships. A little push from Dermot's sister and these two are on their way to happily ever after.
Loved how these two were all in from the beginning and the banter was next level! So many side characters that could take us for a ride in Holiday Ridge, but not sure if Ms. Aleo will be staying town long.
Side note, I can not for the life of me remember Maggie's dad, Alex Welch, who was an Assassin back in the day with Shea but this might just call for a revisit of Elli and Shea's story!!
Instant sparks are there, but while Maggie is ready to jump in with both feet, Dr. Dermot is a little apprehensive based on some bad relationships. A little push from Dermot's sister and these two are on their way to happily ever after.
Loved how these two were all in from the beginning and the banter was next level! So many side characters that could take us for a ride in Holiday Ridge, but not sure if Ms. Aleo will be staying town long.
Side note, I can not for the life of me remember Maggie's dad, Alex Welch, who was an Assassin back in the day with Shea but this might just call for a revisit of Elli and Shea's story!!
February 16, 2026
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via BookSirens. This in no way impacted on my view.
Though she's an award winning romance author, Maggie Welch has never been in love herself. She's grown up seeing how her parent's love story sparked a craze in town, and wants more than anything to have a romance which survives Lock Night. Maggie's always had her eye on the handsome doctor next door, Dermot, but she's too shy to make a move. So when a freak accident involving a ladder, and a stone phallus, result in her needing medical attention, Maggie makes her move. Dermot knows that Maggie is his favourite author, and he's drawn to her like never before. But he's shy and quiet, and can't imagine someone as beautiful as Maggie will want him, right?
This was definitely the book to read on Valentine's Day this year. Maggie and Dermot were such a sweet couple, and though not completely similar, they were complementary to each other. Yes, they made mistakes, and it wasn't an absolutely perfect love story, but it was real and theirs. I liked the premise of Maggie's family being love royalty in the town, and think that the rest of her siblings will likely be the protagonists of other books in the series. I hope so at least, because it would be nice to return to Holiday Ridge.
Though she's an award winning romance author, Maggie Welch has never been in love herself. She's grown up seeing how her parent's love story sparked a craze in town, and wants more than anything to have a romance which survives Lock Night. Maggie's always had her eye on the handsome doctor next door, Dermot, but she's too shy to make a move. So when a freak accident involving a ladder, and a stone phallus, result in her needing medical attention, Maggie makes her move. Dermot knows that Maggie is his favourite author, and he's drawn to her like never before. But he's shy and quiet, and can't imagine someone as beautiful as Maggie will want him, right?
This was definitely the book to read on Valentine's Day this year. Maggie and Dermot were such a sweet couple, and though not completely similar, they were complementary to each other. Yes, they made mistakes, and it wasn't an absolutely perfect love story, but it was real and theirs. I liked the premise of Maggie's family being love royalty in the town, and think that the rest of her siblings will likely be the protagonists of other books in the series. I hope so at least, because it would be nice to return to Holiday Ridge.
February 14, 2026
I have read each one of the assassins books from Toni Aleo and one of the main reasons I enjoy them is the way the characters connect. I love how families are in intertwined now you can read each book individually and it would be fine, but reading them all together… that makes it awesome!
I have always thought that the one character that I would’ve enjoyed hearing their story was Alex Welch. He was in the very first one that he was a side character and at the time he was married, but we really didn’t know anything about them. This book gives us a little glimpse into their love story, but it focuses on their daughter Maggie.
I also love that is set up in a a small town in Canada. The Welches are pretty important in that town. It seems like everyone is connected. This story focuses on Maggie and she is a writer and also has a bookstore and when she falls, she meets Dermot, the doctor. Dermot has his own story which is very sweet. It was awesome to see how he finally gets his happy ending.
I would’ve liked to have had more in the story, but was a short quick read. If you love, small towns, nosy families, and love stories, this book is for you.
I have always thought that the one character that I would’ve enjoyed hearing their story was Alex Welch. He was in the very first one that he was a side character and at the time he was married, but we really didn’t know anything about them. This book gives us a little glimpse into their love story, but it focuses on their daughter Maggie.
I also love that is set up in a a small town in Canada. The Welches are pretty important in that town. It seems like everyone is connected. This story focuses on Maggie and she is a writer and also has a bookstore and when she falls, she meets Dermot, the doctor. Dermot has his own story which is very sweet. It was awesome to see how he finally gets his happy ending.
I would’ve liked to have had more in the story, but was a short quick read. If you love, small towns, nosy families, and love stories, this book is for you.
February 14, 2026
I can honestly say if I ever get stuck reading a book or DNF one, I can immediately pick up any Toni Aleo book, fall in on the first page, and emerge when I finish the last word. Her writing is my absolute favorite and her characters make sense to me. I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book, being it’s not a hockey romance, but it did not disappoint at all. This was a nice, fast, sweet, and spicy read. Maggie is an author who has not had any luck in Love and Dermot is the new (ish) town doctor who reads romance. They come together because of an accident and it’s a pretty sweet meet cute. The banter in the bookstore right after This and into the clinic is awesome. I’m glad Maggie had the courage to say the things she did and Dermot overcame his shyness. These two have wonder chemistry, great banter, and some steamy scenes. This Is a quick read that still gives you all the feels. Read it, you will not be disappointed!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Holy Hotness!!!! Loved Locked In was the perfect Valentine Surprise. The story is a beautiful meet cute. Dermot and Maggie have been eyeing each other for months. He runs the doctor office next door to her bookstore. He's a little gun shy, only ever says hi while secretly devouring every romance novel she writes.
The way the author set up their meet cute let me know this story was going to be amazing. At times my sides hurt from all the laughter. Dermot's awkwardness is just so darn cute. Tears flowed, not out of sadness, but out of joy. Maggie's whole family is a complete hoot.
If the laughs aren't enough to get you excited about Valentine's Day the sexual antics will have your screen and glasses steaming. I read chapter after chapter wishing I was young and energetic. Thankfully I can live vicariously through Toni Aleo's words.
The way the author set up their meet cute let me know this story was going to be amazing. At times my sides hurt from all the laughter. Dermot's awkwardness is just so darn cute. Tears flowed, not out of sadness, but out of joy. Maggie's whole family is a complete hoot.
If the laughs aren't enough to get you excited about Valentine's Day the sexual antics will have your screen and glasses steaming. I read chapter after chapter wishing I was young and energetic. Thankfully I can live vicariously through Toni Aleo's words.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Who else can have a great love story then a Romance Writer.
Maggie Welch comes from a hockey royalty family but she has made a name for herself as a romance writer but unfortunately in her own life she can’t find her one true love that is until a freak accident has her looking up in the eyes of the gorgeous shy doctor who lives right next door.
Demont Aldridge is a doctor, but he also lives the quiet life of his practice,his dog and his books. When he meets the one woman who has caught his eye for sometime he knows that he can’t mess it up when he finally gets his chance.
Maggie & Dermont are what romance books are made for, the fun banter between them, the way they look at the other, just everything about them screams Romance. This couple is one on my favorites from the very first page and right up to the words The End.
Maggie Welch comes from a hockey royalty family but she has made a name for herself as a romance writer but unfortunately in her own life she can’t find her one true love that is until a freak accident has her looking up in the eyes of the gorgeous shy doctor who lives right next door.
Demont Aldridge is a doctor, but he also lives the quiet life of his practice,his dog and his books. When he meets the one woman who has caught his eye for sometime he knows that he can’t mess it up when he finally gets his chance.
Maggie & Dermont are what romance books are made for, the fun banter between them, the way they look at the other, just everything about them screams Romance. This couple is one on my favorites from the very first page and right up to the words The End.
Review of advance copy
𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐈𝐧 by Toni Aleo is the surprise Valentine’s Day novella that I didn’t know I needed in my life!! As an avid fan of her OG Nashville Assassins series, the moment I realized that Maggie was a Welch had me instantly turning giddy with excitement! Add that to the fact that she’s a sassy Romance Author with her eye on the doctor next door, who just so happens to read romance… and I was fully obsessed!! The meet cute was priceless and made me laugh, the banter was nonstop, the chemistry was blazing, and the characters were perfection! From Dermot’s sweet awkwardness to Maggie’s infectious boldness, I couldn’t get enough of them or the hilarious Welch family. I loved the emotional and romantic undertones with definite Valentine’s vibes, and I am crossing my fingers that we get more stories from this family!😉
Thank you to Toni Aleo and BookSirens for the ARC. My opinions are my own and are freely expressed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to Toni Aleo and BookSirens for the ARC. My opinions are my own and are freely expressed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 15, 2026
Looking for some secret chuckles of laughter, crushing from far, and eventually hot doc reading book lover Mc Steamy dreamy - look no more. This is a love story you don't want to stop readying to even take a break. Watching these two characters climax up being an official couple was just soooo cute! One just afraid of fully letting go to experiencing love and the other getting another chance with being ready in full force. Taking place at Holiday Ridge sets this romance up just perfectly. The story of Maggies parents starting the Lock Night in this quaint town makes you want to join in. Making promises seem far out of reach for Dermot and Maggie but worth the risk. The steam is steaming for sure no doubt!! Perfect read for Valentines Day!!!!!
February 17, 2026
Love Locked In by Toni Aleo is the perfect rom-com. Maggie is a romance author & also has a bookstore in Holiday Ridge. Dermot is a doctor in town & also neighbors with Maggie. Maggie hasn't had good luck with love even though she writes about it. Dermot also hasn't had good luck with love but loves to read romance books. An accident brings them together & they realize they have a lot in common. Holiday Ridge has a tradition called Lock Night that Maggie's parents started. Will Lock Night bring Maggie & Dermot together? Can they both take a chance & let each other into their lives. Toni Aleo did a fantastic job writing this rom-com. I can't wait to see more of Holiday Ridge now that she has given us a peak.
February 18, 2026
Need more
I went into this book almost completely blind. I have read every book Toni has ever written and I completely forgot who Alex was so it all felt like a surprise to me.
It was a quick read and that would be my only complaint ever. The story line was funny and kept me giggling throughout. Dr. Do my body good legit had me laughing so hard I was crying.
Maggie is very outspoken but also shys away from herself at times. Dermot was super awkward shy but ended up being a dirty golden retriever boyfriend. Loved it.
The sister relationship was funny and very true to why I know in my own family.
I really need to know the rest of their stories as well as continuing to see Alex and Mary because their love is amazing and funny to watch how it freaks out the girls.
I went into this book almost completely blind. I have read every book Toni has ever written and I completely forgot who Alex was so it all felt like a surprise to me.
It was a quick read and that would be my only complaint ever. The story line was funny and kept me giggling throughout. Dr. Do my body good legit had me laughing so hard I was crying.
Maggie is very outspoken but also shys away from herself at times. Dermot was super awkward shy but ended up being a dirty golden retriever boyfriend. Loved it.
The sister relationship was funny and very true to why I know in my own family.
I really need to know the rest of their stories as well as continuing to see Alex and Mary because their love is amazing and funny to watch how it freaks out the girls.
Read
February 20, 2026Dermot and Maggie were perfect together, it just took divine intervention to get them to talk. Dermot is the shy doctor in town, whose past relationships leave him hesitant to try again. Maggie is an author and bookstore owner who wants love but doesn’t think she will ever find it. When she falls and Dermot has to give her stitches their initial introduction is hilarious, the nickname and blushing are great.
I enjoyed the sweet relationship and meddling families. It was also nice to see Alex (I’m embarrassed to admit it took me awhile to remember him) and his family. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for more in the series. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
I enjoyed the sweet relationship and meddling families. It was also nice to see Alex (I’m embarrassed to admit it took me awhile to remember him) and his family. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for more in the series. I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.
Review of advance copy
The perfect little Valentine read!! This was filled with love! Dermot and Maggie's meet cute. The way these two liked each other from a far.
I loved how Maggie is a romance author and that Dermot is a romance reader. The he had every book by Maggie. They were so stinking cute. The shyness from Dermot... my heart. I just wanted to hug him the whole time. He didn't want to rush but Maggie was like.. LET's GOOOOO!!! Maggie's boldness! They are the perfect match!! She had sass and attitude and I want to be her when I grow up!
If you like:
Insta Love
Meet Cute
FMC Romance Author
Novella
Valentines Day Vibes
I loved how Maggie is a romance author and that Dermot is a romance reader. The he had every book by Maggie. They were so stinking cute. The shyness from Dermot... my heart. I just wanted to hug him the whole time. He didn't want to rush but Maggie was like.. LET's GOOOOO!!! Maggie's boldness! They are the perfect match!! She had sass and attitude and I want to be her when I grow up!
If you like:
Insta Love
Meet Cute
FMC Romance Author
Novella
Valentines Day Vibes
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my gosh! I loved everything about Maggie and Dermot! Dermot is totally in love with Maggie, but he’s afraid to do anything about it. He’s her biggest fan unknowingly her muse. By day, he’s the quiet town doctor. He’s admired Maggie from afar for way too long. Maggie writes dirty romances and runs the town bookstore right next door to him. When he comes to her rescue after a freak accident in the bookstore, the two of them find it impossible to stay away from each other. Soon, Maggie finds that Dermot fulfills the role of idea book boyfriend in the bedroom. These two were made for each other! Totally Love Maggie’s sassy family and Dermot’s meddling sister!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved Locked In is Dr Dermot Aldridge and hockey royalty and romance writer Maggie Welch’s perfect Valentine Surprise. This is a beautifully written, meet cute love story and it didn’t take me long to become invested in the characters and their story.
Maggie may be able to write a good love story but she is struggling in real life to find her soulmate until a freak accident has her getting close and personal with the hot Doctor from next door………
I loved this book, I fell hard and fast for this couple and I giggled at the witty and swooned at steamy chemistry but what took this book to the next level was the smile on my face as I cheered Maggie and Dermot on.
Maggie may be able to write a good love story but she is struggling in real life to find her soulmate until a freak accident has her getting close and personal with the hot Doctor from next door………
I loved this book, I fell hard and fast for this couple and I giggled at the witty and swooned at steamy chemistry but what took this book to the next level was the smile on my face as I cheered Maggie and Dermot on.
February 14, 2026
I absolutely loved this surprise release of Love Locked In by Toni Aleo. The main characters of this book, Dermot and Maggie, are unique and not your stereotypical main characters. Maggie and Dermot have the cutest meet-cute. I adore them both. Surprisingly, the main male character is the shy one for once. Which was refreshing and a nice change. Maggie, who is an author, has a wonderful way with words even in just everyday conversations and I love that she isn't afraid to be blunt. Dermot admires her work and I love that they enjoy talking books together and that he is her number one fan. Love Locked In was the perfect book to read leading up to Valentine's Day.
February 15, 2026
What a wonderful Valentine’s Day surprise from Ms. Aleo. Set in a small town with a sweet valentines tradition. Maggie and Dermot live in the same small town but Maggie is from the towns royal family, Maggie dad is a former NHL player and he and his wife started the tradition the town is known for. And Dermot is newer to town and is the town doctor who loves his books and his dog.
Our main characters romance starts in a very unconventional way that will have you laughing!
This story isn’t quick feel good read with the right amount spice! I hope we see some more books from this wonderful town.
Our main characters romance starts in a very unconventional way that will have you laughing!
This story isn’t quick feel good read with the right amount spice! I hope we see some more books from this wonderful town.
February 15, 2026
Looking for some secret chuckles of laughter, crushing from far, and eventually hot doc reading book lover Mc Steamy dreamy - look no more. This is a love story you don't want to stop readying to even take a break. Watching these two characters climax up being an official couple was just soooo cute! One just afraid of fully letting go to experiencing love and the other getting another chance with being ready in full force. Taking place at Holiday Ridge sets this romance up just perfectly. The story of Maggies parents starting the Lock Night in this quaint town makes you want to join in. Making promises seem far out of reach for Dermot and Maggie but worth the risk. The steam is steaming for sure no doubt!! Perfect read for Valentines Day!!!!!
February 15, 2026
Love Locked In is such a fun, sweet, and hilarious story! Maggie is a romance author who writes all the happy ever after, but has had horrible luck in her own love life. Dermot is the town doctor and afraid of putting himself after some bad relationships. These two have crutches on one another, yet have barely spoken until an accident brings them together. Maggie and Dermot let the banter flow, the chemistry build, and waiting for the moment they finally give into what they’ve been feeling. Dermot and Maggie will steal your heart! Loved the small town of Holiday Ridge and their nosy family members.
February 19, 2026
A great surprise little novella from one of my favorite authors. I went into this thinking it was all new characters and surprise it was part of the Assassin's world. It had been awhile since I read a book that had Alex Welch in it. Well this one has his daughter and her finding her happily ever after. She has the absolutely best meet cute with Dr do my body good, Dermot. Dermot has been admiring Maggie from afar for a year. He is shy and has been burned and has some baggage. A steamy must read to see them navigate to their happy ever after. This definitely left me wanting more. I hope we see them again in future books.
February 19, 2026
A surprise book from Toni Aleo for Valentines Day?! Um... Yes please, I'm totally here for it!
‘Love Locked In’ gives us the very handsome Dr Dermot Aldridge and the absolutely gorgeous Maggie Welch. They've both been unlucky in love - which is really unfortunate for Maggie, since she's an award winning romance author, but that's just the way the cookie crumbled for the both of them. Fate brings them together though, by way of the freakiest of accidents, and Dermot is called to help Maggie.
What follows is a love story that would’ve been Maggie's best work, had she written it herself! This is the sweetest love story that will really warm your heart!
‘Love Locked In’ gives us the very handsome Dr Dermot Aldridge and the absolutely gorgeous Maggie Welch. They've both been unlucky in love - which is really unfortunate for Maggie, since she's an award winning romance author, but that's just the way the cookie crumbled for the both of them. Fate brings them together though, by way of the freakiest of accidents, and Dermot is called to help Maggie.
What follows is a love story that would’ve been Maggie's best work, had she written it herself! This is the sweetest love story that will really warm your heart!
Review of advance copy
Love Locked In is the perfect novella for your Valentine’s Day.
Maggie and Dermot are neighbors in both their home and businesses and both have secretly been watching the other until a rogue incident brings them together in the best of ways.
Maggie is sassy, fun, and afraid she will never get the love story she wants. Dermot is nervous to take a leap and go for his love story. Together these two bring laughter, sweet emotions, and a story you will love.
Come to Holiday Ridge where being locking in love is the name of the game.
Maggie and Dermot are neighbors in both their home and businesses and both have secretly been watching the other until a rogue incident brings them together in the best of ways.
Maggie is sassy, fun, and afraid she will never get the love story she wants. Dermot is nervous to take a leap and go for his love story. Together these two bring laughter, sweet emotions, and a story you will love.
Come to Holiday Ridge where being locking in love is the name of the game.
February 15, 2026
When I saw that Toni was releasing a new book, I was so ecstatic! All her books are an instant read for me. I binged this book in one setting. I was invested! Maggie and Dermot are perfect for each other but both were afraid to make the first move. Well, an unusual circumstance took that equation out for them and Dermot found himself helping Maggie. From there, we read their story unfold and it was filled with every thing I've come to love about Toni's books. If you're looking for a fun book with some spice- definitely read this.
February 16, 2026
Fun Valentine's Day story.
Years ago, Maggie's parents started Lock Night. Couples engrave initials on a lock and put it on the fencing around Promise Pond.
Maggie is a romance writer and has yet to find the ultimate book boyfriend. The handsome doctor has caught her eye but he seems to avoid her at all costs.
Dr. Dermot Alridge fell for Maggie the minute he saw her. Doen't hurt she is his favorite author but he has no luck when it comes to love.
One minor accident sends Maggie into his arms, literally. Will he keep her there?
Years ago, Maggie's parents started Lock Night. Couples engrave initials on a lock and put it on the fencing around Promise Pond.
Maggie is a romance writer and has yet to find the ultimate book boyfriend. The handsome doctor has caught her eye but he seems to avoid her at all costs.
Dr. Dermot Alridge fell for Maggie the minute he saw her. Doen't hurt she is his favorite author but he has no luck when it comes to love.
One minor accident sends Maggie into his arms, literally. Will he keep her there?
February 16, 2026
A Fantastic Valentine’s Story
I loved this story and I cannot wait for more from this series!!!
Dermot and Maggie are neighbours, who have barely spoken, yet both find the other very attractive. When something only Toni Aleo can think up causes Dermot to come to Maggie’s bookshop to help her, the two finally start to talk and they cannot stop!
This story is full of lots of laughs and tons of Easter Eggs making every excited to find out what happens next in this small town full of many people looking, and some not looking, for their HEAs!
I loved this story and I cannot wait for more from this series!!!
Dermot and Maggie are neighbours, who have barely spoken, yet both find the other very attractive. When something only Toni Aleo can think up causes Dermot to come to Maggie’s bookshop to help her, the two finally start to talk and they cannot stop!
This story is full of lots of laughs and tons of Easter Eggs making every excited to find out what happens next in this small town full of many people looking, and some not looking, for their HEAs!
February 14, 2026
This was a beautiful romance. Maggie is a romance author and bookstore owner. She is crushing on the doctor next door, Dermont. Dermont is also crushing on her but he’s reluctant to approach her because he’s been burned by love. An unlikely incident brings them together and now it’s on!! Maggie and Dermont finally confess their attraction after lots of flirting. Once they’re together there’s no stopping them.
February 15, 2026
This one was short and very cute! I loved how Maggie knew herself and was pretty forward, while Dermot was shy and awkward. It seemed to take forever for Dermot to get the hints Maggie was dropping, to the point where they weren't even really hints anymore. Once the two were on the same page it was full steam ahead for them. I did love how Dermot was able to surprise Maggie at the end, especially because it was with something he knew meant a lot to her.
February 16, 2026
Small town, healing from past relationships, forced proximity, top tier banter, emotions with hot hot spice!
If you love Toni's books or are a newbie. This is a completely new universe. So no need to have read any other books.
This book is the first in the series and can be read as a complete stand alone. You do not need to have read any other books by this author. But it will make you want to read more!
If you love Toni's books or are a newbie. This is a completely new universe. So no need to have read any other books.
This book is the first in the series and can be read as a complete stand alone. You do not need to have read any other books by this author. But it will make you want to read more!
February 16, 2026
POV: Dual
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
This book is the perfect feel good valentines read! It is drama-free and so cute, with Toni’s special brand of humor written throughout. The lock tradition in this small town added a fun, romantic twist and I loved what Dermot and Maggie did with that. These two are complete opposites that are so perfect for each other, and their love was so easy it didn’t need a full length book!
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
This book is the perfect feel good valentines read! It is drama-free and so cute, with Toni’s special brand of humor written throughout. The lock tradition in this small town added a fun, romantic twist and I loved what Dermot and Maggie did with that. These two are complete opposites that are so perfect for each other, and their love was so easy it didn’t need a full length book!
February 17, 2026
This was such a cute, short book. I loved how Maggie was a romance author who was unapologetically herself and knew what she wanted. It was refreshing to see a male main character blush, be shy, and be an all around good guy. I thought this Valentine’s story was equal parts sweet, funny, swoon worthy, with the right amount of spice. If you’re looking for a quick read, festive love story, this is it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews