The Muse

The Chain of Lakes #2

by Jewel E. Ann

Flynn Morley has spent his life getting by with as little as possible. No girlfriend. No real home. No money to speak of. Raised in the system, he learned early not to trust people who seemed to have everything. So when he takes a job as a “muse” for a wealthy Minneapolis couple, it feels like crossing a line he never thought he would.

Then he meets June.

June is a bike tour guide with a quick smile, a calm confidence, and a way of making Flynn feel seen without being judged. Their connection is immediate and playful, built on shared humor, quiet moments, and a mutual longing for a simple life.

As Flynn adjusts to his bizarre new job, he starts encountering something he never planned for: kindness without strings attached. It challenges everything he believes about money, power, and who gets to be comfortable in the world. And falling for June only complicates things, especially when it turns out she’s carrying secrets of her own.

When June’s past surfaces, Flynn has to decide what scares him more: becoming someone he’s always sworn he’d never be or letting her see his darkest secrets. If he can’t let go of his fears, he might lose the one person who finally feels like home.

Genres: Found Family, Romance

342 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication May 28, 2026

About the author

Jewel is a Wall Street Journal & USA Today best selling author with a quirky sense of humor. When she's not saving the planet one tree at a time, you can find her role modeling questionable behavior to her three boys, binge-watching Netflix with her husband, and writing mind-bending romance.

Her newest release is The Homemaker, a contemporary romance.

Upcoming Projects: The Muse, book 2 in the Chain of Lakes Series coming in May.
Stay in the loop by subscribing to her newsletter!—> Sign up here!

Reviews

[cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I don’t want you to fit into my world, June.
I want you to 𝓫𝓮 my world.”


on repeat 𝄞 ࿐♬ 𓍢ִ🎧ྀི ᯓ ‎♪ˎˊ˗
“ᴍᴏᴏɴ ʀɪᴠᴇʀ” x 2ᴄᴇʟʟᴏꜱ
0:05 ─♥────────── 3:12


This book had me smiling so much while I was reading it. Flynn and June were just one of those couples that felt easy to get attached to because their relationship felt so genuine from the beginning. Sweet, awkward, honest, a little messy sometimes… but real in a way that made me completely invested in them.

Flynn had my heart almost immediately. There was something so quietly heartbreaking about the way he moved through life expecting very little from people, and you could tell growing up with nothing shaped so much of who he became. Which is why watching him slowly experience kindness and care throughout the story hit me so hard emotionally. 🥺

Especially when it came to Callie and Rupert.
I loved the way they naturally started taking care of him in small ways without making him feel pitied or judged. Half the time Flynn barely even seemed to recognize what was happening, which honestly made it even sadder because you could tell he genuinely wasn’t used to people showing up for him like that. Watching someone slowly realize they deserve care without having to earn it first will always get to me.

His personality made me love him even more too. He was awkward, brutally honest, unintentionally funny, and somehow incredibly charming because of it. His dry humor mixed with June’s warmth made their banter one of my favorite parts of the entire book. They had this really effortless chemistry where even the smaller conversations felt meaningful because of how comfortable they became with each other so quickly.

One thing I really loved was how sincere Flynn was when it came to June. Nothing about the way he cared for her felt performative or overly polished. It felt very raw and wholehearted in a way that made their relationship easy to believe in.

“I feel like the best version of myself when she looks at me.”

Flynn spent so much of the story carrying around insecurity, discomfort, and this constant feeling that he didn’t fully belong anywhere. So seeing him slowly start viewing himself differently through the way June loved him honestly became one of the most emotional parts of the book for me. It wasn’t just about him falling in love with her—it was about him finally believing he could maybe deserve love too.

And honestly, the rich girl / poor boy dynamic added so much natural emotion underneath everything. Flynn carried so much discomfort around money, belonging, and feeling out of place in certain spaces that even the softer moments between them still carried this quiet tension underneath. There’s just something about two people from completely different worlds trying to meet in the middle that always creates so much yearning naturally.

I will say the writing felt a little choppy at times, and some chapters ended really abruptly. 😬 But emotionally, the book still completely worked for me. Once I got attached to Flynn and June, I honestly didn’t want to stop reading because I became so invested in Flynn learning how to trust people and let himself be cared for.

By the end, what stayed with me most wasn’t even just the romance itself, but the emotional growth underneath it. Watching someone who spent most of their life surviving slowly learn what kindness, stability, and unconditional love actually look like hit me way harder than I expected. It was messy and imperfect at times, but honestly, that’s what made it feel human.

things to know about the book ↓

🎶 angsty
🎶 rich girl x poor boy
🎶 chance encounter
🎶 first love
🎶 guarded hearts
🎶 opposites attract
🎶 dual POV

spice rating: 🌶️🌶️
chapters: 18, 19, 20, 34
swearing: yes

Thank you Valentine PR, publisher & author for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

⸻⸻⸻
・❥・⁀➷ 🚘 🩵 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕

i'm intrigued. i signed up for this arc because ive heard great things about Jewel E Ann's writing. hoping it delivers because i've read nothing by her before 🤞🏼😭

[Jewel Ann]

I know you all are just itching for my next book, so to scratch that itch a little while you wait, I'm throwing some tropes your way!
Angsty, Bad Boy Good Girl, Black Sheep, Blue Collar Hero, Chance Encounter, First Love, Fish Out of Water, Guarded Hearts, Morally Grey MMC, Opposite Attract

[Hulya Kara Yuksel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was in a reading slump since the beginning of 2026 and I've read only 12 books so far BUT when I start to read this book I felt that ohhh this is gonna be sooooo good. I mean I was into this book from the 1st chapter. Imagine how I quickly fell in love with Flynn. :) This amazing book literally pulled me up from my funk. I loved everything about this story and Flynn & June were so good together. You'll feel all of the emotions with them... You'll laugh, you'll cry.... This was not only a typical romance story like boy meets with the girl etc. You'll also invest side characters story too. Jewel is an amazing storyteller and you should expect the unexpected with her books because trust me, she'll surprise you indeed like when I meet June's parents for example. Ahhh I was squeling like a duck! LOL My lips are sealed, I won't gave away their names but just please read this book! It's not out yet but pls add it to your TBR list. :)

*This book is one of my favorites now and it's my No.1 book of 2026! Yesssss, told you! It was that good. ;) I highly recommend all of the Jewel's books to you. 😍😍😍

Expected publication May 28, 2026
***ARC provided by Valentine PR & Literary Management.

"I think everything in my life has led me to her.
I have to believe it. One.Good.Thing.
I have to believe I'm deserving of one good thing."

Flynn, I love you!!!!

[✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

June + Flynn

Flynn is 25 years old and his life hasn't been easy. His mom left when he was only three and from then it's been bad foster families and juvie and jail and jobs that barely keep him housed and fed.
Now he's been hired by this rich guy in his fifties to be a muse to his wife.
Flynn has no idea what that means - nothing sexual though, says the guy.

June is 26 and working as a bike tour guide in Minneapolis.
It's inta like/love between those too, but they're both hiding a lot...

══════════════════




That was so adorable!
Poor Flynn. He never really had any luck in life and he's still this sweet and positive guy. Half still a kid and half super grown up and wise. And now he got this strange but amazing new job and met the girl of his dreams. Dreams he never knew he could have.
Those two are so adorable. But also so broken and hurt from things in their past.
Flynn's bosses are amazing - with sad hurtful things of their own.
June's parents are amazing ... we already know them as long-time Jewel readers.
→ click

I just loved reading this!

And we might have also already met the star of book #3 - a super grumpy vet! GIMME!

THE MUSE was such a sweet and funny and sparky and sexy and adorable and heartbreaking love story. Run to your nearest book dealer for your own accidental romantic poet Flynn - he'll be sold out in no time!

If you can't click the buy-links
from your phone - click ► HERE!


💜 💜

[Shabby -BookBistroBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clever heartwarming story of Accidental romance, defying all odds. Big heart, Honest sentiments and hilarious relation make it a memorable read indeed. Swoon worthy hero meets an adorable heroine and a genuine, grounding connection gets you a rom-com till angst comes crashing in.
Two people from different stratospheres of society, talent and status are not a likely pairing, but the mud vein that connects soul mates is pulsing strong. From razor-sharp banter to deep emotional twists, their chemistry is scorching from the first meet-cute.

“ “You’re my favorite person, June. So everything you do becomes my favorite thing.””

Only jewel can make improbable situation be launching pad for deep connection situation. The title is dual pronged. A Muse is “A source of inspiration for a creative person” but also to be a better version of themselves.

“Dyslexic. Delinquent. Dropout.”

Good man stuck in bad life. A diamond in the rough, waiting for someone to noc0tice his Brilliance and fire
Instead of a Rollercoaster, it's Set on a gently swinging pace. Even and steady, you gently fall in love with June the biker & Finn Morley, the guy with shittiest eating grin that could knock your socks off in an instant. I found myself compulsively following in love with him from the get go. I wish it went a little faster, cause it felt a little stretched in the middle.
His inappropriately blurting out his thoughts, his nature of thinking about everyone ahead of himself and kindness polish his personality like a diamond. The connoisseurs who spot his radiance are grieving Rawlings, loyal trusted friend Monroe and A girl hiding from the world in plain sight.

““I’m Flynn Morley, a full-time muse and part-time idiot who really likes you.””

In helping Callie, he “open his doors” to let loose his psyche from moralistic biases that cloud his logic. The "come to Jesus" moment was particularly hard to read but cathartic too.
The surprise was enormous and I DM'd jewel all in caps!!
A slow burn but the dynamic between them and delicious tension of "when will they", more than Made up for it. After a long hold-up, the train chugged forward and then hands off was an impossibility. Their stolen spicy moments were sizzling and hilarious...for others!!
The Rawlings - Callie and esp Rupert are endearing and intriguing. Their own healing journey brings closure to everyone
I'm a huge fan so obvo I'm besotted with her writing, Fingerlicking good like chicken fingers and fries
Happiness is not A world away, it's right here, in the Canary clutching hands of Flynn Morley
“5 stars for Poetic Accidental Romance”
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[Megan Coggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always seem to compare Jewel E Ann’s books to rollercoasters.
Because they are and I’ve learned to expect it.
And I love it.
This one I’d say is a beginner level rollercoaster.

The Muse.
Whatever you think a muse does… you’re wrong 🤣
Flynn…
We got a very broken and very bad boy.
Who gets a job with a very rich couple….

Enter June
The bike tour guide
“Good girl”
But expect her to not be “perfect”

First loves
Messy
Imperfect
Real life

Arc review ✨

[ReadingTilTheBreakOfDawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t know how JEA does it every time.
The humor. The banter. The emotions. The character growth. Im in love. RTC!

[Erin Trump · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an emotional and heartwarming story. June & Flynn are both trying to heal from their past, they both have secrets, very, very different secrets.
I absolutely adore how much Flynn is so open and real with June (even though he has his big secret) he is new to all of this, and it is just so endearing to see him be flustered and humbled.
He learns so much about himself and the world, and it makes him such a better person in the end.
I love the chemistry, adventures, and passion.
This was full of hope, laughs, tears, heartbreak & healing.

[Tiffany Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rtc

Another fantastic story! All the emotions/feeling! 🫶🏻

[Luna · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️


Gracias Jewel E. Ann y Valentine PR por la copia avanzada de este libro!

Que decirles, una de mis autoras favoritas escribiendo en este mundo de The Chain of Lakes jamas podría salir mal no? El primer libro me encanto y este, no puedo explicarle los personajes que tiene el el desarrollo que logran a lo largo del libro. Primero quiero mencionar a Callie y Rupert, me fascinaron! Son de esos personajes que no son los protagonistas pero para mi se llevaron todo el libro, la oportunidad que le dan a Flynn y lo que Flynn les genera a ellos me pareció hermoso, fue un vinculo hermoso de leer como se va desarrollando!!
Flynn es un protagonista masculino tan único, esa inocencia después de lo dura que fue su infancia, y como a lo largo del libro lo vemos crecer fue espectacular. June como protagonista también me encanto, y siento que también tuvo su evolución a lo largo de la historia pero Flynn se lleva todo!! Si ya leíste a Jewel E. Ann vas a saber quienes son sus padres y Henna y Bodhi siendo los papas de nuestra protagonista me dieron mucho amor!
La historia es muy particular y siento que representa muy bien a la autora, quien mas podría escribir un libro así?
Y por mas que es insta love al 100% todo tiene sentido y verlos enamorarse y crecer a Flynn y June fue hermoso!
Vale la pens esta lectura en su totalidad <3

“His smile swells. It's fatherly pride. And since I don't remember my father, I'll remember this summer with Rupert and Callie Rawl-ings. The summer I grew up. Fell in love. And wore leather loafers without socks.”


~ English review ~

5⭐️

Thank you to Jewel E. Ann and Valentine PR for the ARC of this book!

What can I even say? Having one of my favorite authors write in the world of The Chain of Lakes could never go wrong. I absolutely loved the first book, but this one… I can’t even explain how incredible these characters are or how beautiful their character development is throughout the story.

First, I have to mention Callie and Rupert — I was obsessed with them! Even though they aren’t technically the main characters, in my opinion they completely steal the story because of how unique they are. The opportunity they give Flynn, and what Flynn brings into their lives in return, was so beautiful to read. Watching that bond slowly develop throughout the book was honestly one of my favorite parts.

Flynn is such a unique MMC. The innocence he still carries after such a difficult childhood, and the character development he goes through throughout the story, was incredible. I also loved June as a protagonist, and I think she had a beautiful character arc as well — but Flynn truly steals your heart.

And if you’ve already read Jewel E. Ann, you’ll know exactly who his parents are. Having Henna and Bodhi as June’s parents gave me so many feelings!

This story feels so original and emotionally layered in a way that only Jewel E. Ann can pull off. The way she writes characters and relationships is always so unique and unforgettable.

And even though this is 100% insta-love, it all makes perfect sense. Watching Flynn and June fall in love and grow together was beautiful.

This book was absolutely worth the read from beginning to end <3

“His smile swells. It’s fatherly pride. And since I don’t remember my father, I’ll remember this summer with Rupert and Callie Rawlings. The summer I grew up. Fell in love. And wore leather loafers without socks.

[Audio book lover · Rating 4 out of 5]

🚲💛 A guarded drifter, a woman hiding her own scars, and a love story that quietly sneaks under your skin. 💛🚲

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Spice-meter: 🌶️🌶️☆☆☆ (2/5)
Audiobook: 🎧 Dual
Series: The Chain of Lakes, Book 2 (standalone)
HEA: Yes

The Muse was my first book by Jewel E. Ann, and honestly? It completely surprised me in the best way. This story feels soft and emotional without ever becoming overly dramatic, balancing humor, vulnerability, healing, and romance in a way that feels incredibly genuine. It’s the kind of book that slowly pulls you in until suddenly you realize you’re deeply invested in these characters and their happiness.

Flynn and June were one of those couples that felt easy to fall in love with because their connection never felt forced. Their relationship develops naturally through quiet moments, teasing conversations, emotional honesty, and two people slowly realizing they’ve found something safe in each other. Even though this is absolutely insta-love territory, it works because the emotional connection feels believable from the start.

The Story

At its core, The Muse is really about healing, belonging, and learning to let people love you when life has taught you not to expect it. Flynn is messy, guarded, stubborn, and unexpectedly sweet beneath all his defenses. June carries her own secrets and emotional weight, but there’s such a calm warmth to her that balances Flynn perfectly.

What makes the story work so well is how emotionally grounded it feels. The romance is important, but so is Flynn learning that stability, kindness, and acceptance don’t always come with strings attached. The found family dynamic especially with Rupert and Callie adds so much warmth to the story and gives the emotional moments even more impact.

This book doesn’t rely on huge twists or nonstop drama. Instead, it focuses on emotional intimacy, personal growth, and two people finding comfort in each other while carrying very different kinds of pain.

🎧 Narration

Performed in dual narration by Charlotte North and Tim Paige.

Both narrators did a fantastic job bringing the emotional layers of this story to life. Charlotte North captured June’s warmth, vulnerability, and quiet strength beautifully, while Tim Paige absolutely nailed Flynn’s frustration, emotional conflict, and softer moments underneath all his walls.

Together, they made the connection between Flynn and June feel authentic and emotionally immersive.

What I Loved

✔️ A romance that feels natural and emotionally genuine
✔️ Flynn being impossible not to root for
✔️ Found family dynamics that add so much warmth
✔️ Emotional healing without becoming overly heavy
✔️ Opposites attract done in a grounded way
✔️ Insta-love that actually works

Tropes & Vibes

✔️ Rich Girl x Poor Boy
✔️ Opposites Attract
✔️ Chance Encounter
✔️ First Love Vibes
✔️ Found Family
✔️ Emotional Healing
✔️ Guarded Hearts
✔️ Dual POV

Final Thoughts

The Muse is emotional, heartfelt, and quietly beautiful. Jewel E. Ann writes relationships that feel authentic, messy, and deeply human, and Flynn and June’s story was incredibly easy to become invested in. Their chemistry feels natural, their emotional journey feels earned, and the found family elements add so much heart to the overall story.

If you love emotional romances with wounded characters, healing themes, and relationships built on comfort and connection, this is absolutely worth picking up.

[BookishBibliotherapy • AB · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I don’t wave at June. I wink. For the record, I have never winked at anyone in my life. It feels so wrong, but June’s grin is the grandest reward, so I add winking to the list of weird shit I now do because I met a girl.”

Shouting from the rooftops that I love Flynn Morley!

The most endearing, honest, refreshing, and honest MMC, Flynn is who he is and lives unapologetically. Flynn has had a hard life living in the foster care system and experiencing hardship from a young age in the form of abuse. He’s lived in his car, on a couch, and is scrappy. He’s not ashamed of his past or his life, but he wears an invisible armor of protection unknowingly.

So, when he stumbles upon the position of being a muse for a wealthy woman, it’s just another reminder of how wealthy people use their money; he instantly judges his new boss Rupert and his wife Callie without knowing their past or their story. He goes along with his ”muse duties” which include three hour moments of silence in a lounge chair, organizing greeting cards, running errands to the art gallery, and wearing a unitard for a Pilates class.

Flynn says what’s on his mind, and even though that sometimes gets him into trouble, he’s not afraid to speak up and say what’s he’s thinking. However, one visit to an art gallery leaves him speechless as he notices June, a local bike tour guide who stumbles in to use the restroom. She’s instantly in Flynn’s orbit, and from the moment he lays his eyes on her, he’s smitten.

Flynn and June’s love story is like a cosmic event, they crash together in a beautiful and messy world of uninhibited love and wonder. They’re both caught up in one another, but each of them has a secret they’re holding on to, which could be the thing that breaks them apart.

As he slowly opens up to help and love from his new boss and his wife, Flynn slowly begins to heal and accept love, but not without its hardship. Secrets come to light from both Callie and Rupert, Flynn, and June. Judgements are made and the bubble of love Flynn and June lived in slowly starts to burst.

They must learn to find acceptance in the things they cannot change, look past their own prejudices and judgements, and to reach for the thing that makes them stronger - each other.

“Honesty requires vulnerability. Vulnerability needs trust. And love … Well, it’s all about timing.”

The Muse is a book I’ll always think about. It’s honest, it’s raw, it’s beautiful, and it’s healing. Jewel knows exactly how to build up tension within her stories that leave your chest aching. She will break your heart and you’ll feel moments of joy, love, sadness, and grief. But then, because she’s the best, she’ll put each piece of your heart back together slowly in the form of imperfect characters finding redemption, love overcoming hardship, and wounds of the past finding healing in the form of an unexpected and wounded hero, and a girl who he sweeps off her feet. And then you’ll absolutely experience one of the best books you’ll ever read. Every. Single. Time.

PS. Along the way, you’ll meet June’s parents and you’ll be surprised with the best Easter egg! I was so excited to find this while reading! 🥹

[Tiffany Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book was like being wrapped in a warm fuzzy blanket with my favorite coffee at my side...just delightful. Do I fly through it because I can't stop reading because I'm having so much fun? OR Do I savor it and draw it out because I love the feeling this is giving me while reading! The best kind of dilemma for a reader!!!

Flynn hasn't had the best lot in life. Abandoned as a child, bounced around foster care, time served in prison, and living paycheck to paycheck while sleeping on the couch in his best friends apartment, his bad decisions once again land him in hot water when he takes a clients car for a joyride and gets caught. He's given a choice; be turned over to the cops or take a job as a "muse" to Mr. Rawlings' wife. Flynn doesn't know what that means exactly but he's not aching to go back to prison so muse it is. A chance encounter with a bike tour guide while escorting Mrs. Rawlings to a gallery stuns Flynn speechless.

June is working as a bike tour guide and quietly living her life. She has a feeling Flynn could be bad for her as red flags abound, but he instantly grabs her attention with his humor and accidental poetic romantic nature. The two spark a slow and unlikely relationship filled with new emotions, uncharted waters, and secrets that could destroy the whole thing.

I've said it before and I will keep shouting it, NO ONE writes dialogue like Jewel E Ann. Filled with quippy banter and raw emotion, she's so good at eliminating the filler and getting right to the meat of good character development, revealing so much about what the characters want, feel and fear with just conversation. The characters are like onions, layered and complex, and she slowly peels back the rings till you get to the center of what makes them unique. Flynn and June are the stars, but I really enjoyed Rupert and Claire and June's family, who if you've read JEA before, you might remember from a past book.

Overall, I REALLY enjoyed this story. Though their lives have been less than innocent, the innocence in the moments of falling in love between Flynn and June are truly special. Highly recommend!

[vanes2areads · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review 📚📖

Seriously; I don’t know how Jewel E. Ann always gets it right - but she does. The banter in her books always cracks me up; JEA is the type of girl I want to be in a group chat with!

💙 Opposites attract
💙 He Falls First
💙 Love and Healing
💙 Bad Boy x Good Girl
💙 Found Family

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Flynn is a mechanic who took Rupert’s car for a joyride. Rupert made Flynn a compromise - work with me or I’ll call the police. Accepting Rupert’s offer Flynn is hired. Before I get to June; I absolutely love the found family dynamics between Rupert, Cassie and Flynn. Their story is so painful and I love how JEA writes their delicate story - and the way they see a younger Rupert in Flynn 😭🥹. They have so much hope for him; MY HEART ❤️

Enter June 😍 she catches Flynn’s attention at an art museum and it was love at first sight. At first I thought “hmm what is going on.. where are you going with this JEA?”. ✅ I love where she went with it!

“June, you’re the whole damn galaxy on a cloudless night, a hundred miles out of the city.”

Flynn and June have totally different lives; falling in love so quickly that they neglect telling each other anything about their pasts. It isn’t until they do that you realise how different their life experiences have been. Then crying 😭 because you just want to make them all better 🥹🥹 I also absolutely love Junes family and they made a perfect addition to the book.

“Making her smile is quickly becoming my new obsession”

Jewel E. Ann has such a beautiful way of writing broken characters and bringing the best out of them. How does she always turn tragedy into something beautiful? I highlighted so much in The Muse - from life advice (lol), ridiculously funny quotes and so much of JEAs beautiful writing ❤️🤧

Thank you so much Jewel E Ann and Valentine PR for the ARC! I’m so grateful!

[L · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know those classic romance movies where everything just lands perfectly? The chemistry, the tension, the timing, the soundtrack hitting at exactly the right moment? That’s what this book felt like to me: like a symphony in motion.

There’s something a little J.D. Salinger-esque about Flynn and, since Salinger is one of my favorite authors, I especially loved that vibe. The sharpness underneath the charm and the feeling that there’s always something deeper happening beneath the surface. Also, I LOVE Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and the nod to it in this book made me MELT the second I realized what I was reading.

I suppose you’d like to hear about the plot?

A bad boy makes a bad decision that sends his life in a completely different direction, leading to a chance encounter that changes everything. What starts as an unlikely connection turns into two people trying very hard not to need each other. It’s very much opposites attract; watching them push against each other while also being drawn together felt so beautifully authentic.

The relationship unfolded through small moments, amusing antics, one-liners, conversations, and choices that slowly chipped away at the walls they’d built around themselves. There’s a constant undercurrent of secrets, past trauma, and unanswered questions that kept me turning pages because I could feel something bigger waiting beneath the surface.

The supporting characters were excellent too, with personalities and storylines that felt meaningful instead of just filling space. Everyone added something to the emotional atmosphere of the book. I’ve never read anything by Jewel E. Ann before, but I absolutely will again after this.

[AJ's Book ReMarks · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with all of Jewel E. Ann's books, this story opens with a one-liner that instantly pulls you in.

"Flynn Oren Morley, twenty-five, was in the foster care system from the age of three, eighteen months in juvie, one year in jail for felony grand theft, and two years for assault. He's a triple D: Dyslexic, Delinquent, Dropout. Flynn's father worked in the automotive industry and drank a lot. One day, he crossed three lanes of interstate, killing his mother, younger brother, and four others in a head-on collision with a passenger van. His father died years later in prison from a heart attack." Now, Flynn works at Howard's Mobile Detail. When he gets caught joyriding in Mr. Rawlings' car. Mr. Rupert Rawlings chooses not to call the police. Instead, he hires Flynn as a muse for his wife, Callie. Their neighbor, Mr. Hunter Morrison, has hired a homemaker, so they think hiring a muse isn't unusual. Flynn's first task is to drive Mrs. Rawlings to the Gallery to pick up a picture. There, he meets a beautiful woman who comes in to use the restroom, takes off her helmet, and is wearing a T-shirt with a tire logo for Billy's Bike Tours. Her name is June Malone. She's originally from California, now lives in Minneapolis, and loves the cello.

"I absolutely believe life is a journey."

"It's all about timing. Timing guides our lives more than love. Love is just an emotion; timing is our destiny. Missed opportunities. Serendipity. Fate; it's all about timing, not love."

"A World Away."

Overall, this book has everything I expect from Jewel E. Ann: interesting characters, sharp dialogue, and an emotional story that stays with you long after you finish reading. If you want a story that will surprise you, move you, and stick with you, give this one a try.

[Nanci Tink · Rating 5 out of 5]

Words cannot do justice to how much I loved this book!!!! It’s been quite a while since a book made me feel this emotional.

Flynn is the sweetest, kindest most lovable character. He makes me want to laugh and cry at the same time. I just adore him! He literally may be the most swoon worthy character I’ve ever read. Flynn is so innocent yet not at the same time. He breaks my heart, makes me laugh and then has me swooning all within a matter of minutes. I love how open and honest he is almost to a fault. I love the found family aspect which he so desperately needed.


June was quite the surprise. Her story comes attached to characters whom I was so happy to read about again! She was strong, independent and had a a way of giving Flynn exactly what he needed to open up, become vulnerable and feel even when those feelings hurt. He needed to experience love, kindness, acceptance and vulnerability to which June was the perfect person to help him experience it all.

Now onto my man Rupert!! Rupert stole the show for me! The banter between him and Flynn had me crying. It was everything!!
Jewel, for all the love that is holy, please give this character his own book!!!! I desperately need more of Rupert and Callie’s story!! I literally screamed when I found out who they were! I was intrigued by them in The Homemaker and now I am obsessed!! I can’t let them go!

Overall, I highly recommend reading this book!!!! It’s heartbreaking, beautiful, unexpected, and charming. It’s one of those books that has you reading with a grand permanently plastered to your face. The Muse had me in its grip from beginning to end and will stay with me for years to come.

[Jen's Bookbag · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so happy to receive an ARC for this book! I loved The Homemaker (the first book of this series) so much that right after I finished that book I immediately went down the Jewel rabbit hole and read several other books of hers and found them all to be angsty and delicious. The Muse slots nicely right alongside those other gems. ❤️‍🔥💔❤️‍🩹

I loved how Flynn was a contradiction here—a guy who made bad choices and did some stupid things but was really the sweetest, most generous person you could ever hope to meet. He was shaped by the ugliness of his early life yet he was naive and innocent in many ways.

June has been damaged by an event in her past and found a way to cope by doing a 180 with her life. She’s surviving but definitely not thriving.

Flynn falls hard when he sees June for the first time and they both soon realize they have something that could be very special—if they could just trust each other enough to open up about the past.

I LOVED Rupert and Callie Rawlings and how they basically took Flynn under their wings and gave him his first taste of love and acceptance.

I am going to be honest and say that I don’t think this book was as good as The Homemaker. That book just felt so real and raw, which made the resolution that much sweeter. The Muse is still a great story and I definitely encourage you to read it but I felt like some of the angst felt a little forced and I found the epilogue to be lacking.

Because I know what an outstanding writer Jewel is I feel like this book doesn’t quite measure up to some of her others. I’m going to give this one 3.5 stars, rounded up. ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

“I don’t want you to fit into my world, June. I want you to be my world.”

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jewel E. Ann truly cannot write a bad book. This story was heartwarming, emotional, layered, funny, and one of those stories that completely sneaks into your heart and stays there long after you finish. Flynn and June felt so real, so flawed, and so easy to love.

Flynn was such a breath of fresh air as an MMC. He’s not your typical romance hero, and that’s exactly what made him so special. After a childhood filled with abandonment, mistreatment, foster system, prison, and a constant streak of bad luck, he still somehow manages to keep smiling and pushing forward. There was something so raw and genuine about him that made me instantly attached to his character. And the way he falls for June? Completely gone from first sight. Their connection felt immediate but also deeply emotional, layered with vulnerability, humor, healing, and hope.

Jewel did such a beautiful job developing both of them individually and together. I loved watching Flynn slowly learn what kindness, stability, and unconditional love could look like. The side characters added so much depth to the story too. Callie and Rupert were such an important part of Flynn’s growth, and I absolutely adored June’s parents. Now I need to go back and read their story because I loved every moment with them on page.

I’m absolutely obsessed with this Chain of Lakes world and already counting down for whatever comes next, maybe that grumpy vet?!

Thank you so much to Jewel E. Ann and Valentine PR for the ARC opportunity! 🩵

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review
Thank you to the author for this ARC of The Muse

The Muse is the second book in the Chain of Lakes series. I flew through this and I think I highlighted a bunch of quotes I wish I could share here. Flynn our MMC, was quite an interesting character. I really loved his innocence and naivety, but I also admired his heart. His past is ROUGH and that leads him to be quite critical about his new bosses, Callie and Rupert. The odd relationship he builds with Callie and Rupert is quite heartwarming. I found it interesting how they oddly fit into each other's lives. My heart also breaks for Callie. When he meets June, I think this is where my heart just melts.

"Is it really my fault, that you leave me speechless."

The way Flynn just threw himself into being in love with June. You really can't help but be in awe of him, but also wonder how this is ever going to work. It was like reading a grade school crush story but make it more epic. The few times where he just completely loses himself really breaks your heart, because he wants to learn and he wants to get it right. You can't really blame him for being critical about certain things. The ending for me felt a bit rushed and it would have been nice to see June and Flynn live a bit of their life together on their own. I really just wanted to see Flynn thrive on his own.

"This feels big. And I want to get it right because I think you only get once chance at the really big moments in life."

[Randi (randi_reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never know what to expect with this author's books. She can write so many different characters and I love them all. Flynn Morley is the MMC in this book. He's a blue-collar worker that grew up in foster care and has been in prison. Twice. After a joyride in a client's car, he is to work for them or turned in for his crime. That's how he comes to be "The Muse" for Callie Rawlings.

Flynn meets June while out with Callie. He uses his charm on her to get her to call him. And, thus begins their relationship. It's definitely insta love/lust for them, but it works.

But, both Flynn and June have their own secrets that they are not sharing with the other. Secrets that are completely different. Both have their reasons and understandably so.

Flynn is adorable. He is the most charming, sweet genuine and refreshing MMC. He says what he feels even if it gets him in trouble. He doesn't always understand everything that is said to him which also gets him in trouble. LOL

I really enjoyed Flynn's relationship with his bosses, Rupert and Callie -- especially Rupert. It almost felt like he was being treated like their son. Rupert and Flynn have some great moments and banter. Hilarious.

Read this if you like:

Dual POV/First person
MMC blue collar
Bad boy/goof girl
He falls first
Opposites attract
First love


Thank you to the author and Valentine PR for the advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Ann (Literary Lust) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have just discovered another top read of 2026. I literally could not put The Muse down. I'm really hoping Jewel E. Ann releases a special edition of this book so it can sit on my bookshelf alongside my special edition of The Homemaker and my other favourites by this author.

From the very first chapter, I was completely hooked. The emotions this story evoked in me are incredible. I laughed, I cried, I swooned and everything in between. June and Flynn lead this remarkable story, but honestly, I loved every character; each one brings something unique to the storyline and supports June and Flynn beautifully.

Flynn... I genuinely don't have the words to do him justice. The emotions he stirred in me are something I'll never forget. There are many who could learn a great deal from this man... myself included. Noted!

And June - if there's space for me in her inner circle, I'm there! Her journey is absolutely captivating, and getting to know her was a true highlight of the book.

I honestly don't know how Jewel E. Ann consistently writes such powerful, emotional stories, but she does. Every time, she meets - if not exceeds - my very high expectations. My next read will be another book by this author, which I've already added to my Kindle. Once you've read The Muse, you'll understand why I chose it next - and I suspect I'll be kicking myself for not reading it sooner.

I highly recommend The Muse to you to read.

A 5-star top read!

[Okayish Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved The Homemaker and I was so excited when I received the ALC for The Muse.

I always love the messages and the growth the characters have to go through in Jewel's books and I will say although I still adore this book, I struggled a bit in the beginning. I don't know what it was, but I had a harder time connecting with Flynn and June. But there were also some really great moments that I absolutely adored and I don't want to compare this to The Homemaker, but maybe because I had a harder time connecting with the muse characters that I didn't feel it lived up to my expectations after reading the homemaker.

The Muse is still a great story with some really great growth so I still think everyone should read it.
Also (not wanting to spoil anything) but my mind was blown when June's parents come to town!! Thank you, Jewel, for throwing that in there!!! I was all for that surprise!

Overall, still an amazing book!

The Muse was narrated by Tim Paige and Charlotte North. I've definitely listened to Tim's narration before and I always think he does an amazing job with the characters. I believe this is my first narration by Charlotte, but I think she did an amazing job as well! So definitely worth the listen.

Thank you Jewel E. Ann and Valentine PR for the ALC!

[buzy_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some gifts come wrapped in paper others come in the form of inspiration. Being rich grants the power to hire a muse for inspiration.
…
Flynn was caught taking a car for a joyride. Instead of calling the police he hired him.
…
JEA how I love thee. You set a high standard for writing superior content. The flow and direction are always on point which I appreciate.
…
Flynn and June’s meet and greet was super spectacular. JEA blends both an emotional story with a humorous romance. Callie has good days and bad days. Her husband saw himself in Flynn. He thought maybe if Flynn spends enough time with his wife she’ll remember the good times. The relationship between Callie and Flynn is heartwarming and sincere. I will leave this book a better person for having read the brilliant words of JEA. JEA creates characters I want to be in the moment. I find myself living in there shoes for a brief moment cherishing the life JEA gave them.
…
It’s a drop everything moment when the email hits my inbox with an invitation to downloaded The Muse. I’m jumping in with both feet. Cancel all plans because there is nothing more important than a sexy romance with wonderful characters that make me smile from ear to ear. Another great book boyfriend to add to the list.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first read the premise of this book, I wasn’t sure I would enjoy it-a rich guy hiring a Muse for his wife-what? where could it go? who are these people and will I like them? This was my first Jewel E. Ann story, so I was hesitant. Let me now change “hesitant” to I was absolutely wrong! I loved loved loved this story. I had to make myself put the book down and do other things (not for long, but I did do it). The character development of Flynn was off the charts for me. I was so struck by the way he was vulnerable and streetwise, romantic and smart-mouthed, protective and battered, resourceful and out of his depth, and so very caring. He has stepped onto my list of favorite male characters-fabulous! Flynn and June have great give and take with each of them seeing a greater depth than the visible. There are unknown elements, for several of the characters, throughout the story that when clarified added additional levels of depth in story line. I was so struck by the love that built in the relationships between the characters-the story just kept giving. Trust me, this is not a story you want to miss, and this is an author that I will be seeking out again and again because I was blown away by The Muse!

[PelicanFreak · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful, developing friendship with an older couple that helps him to heal and grow … simultaneously, a developing relationship that sorta forces him to heal and grow … and it’s executed brilliantly thanks to excellent writing.

Written in alternating, first-person POV.
Present tense.

He doesn’t have much in terms of funds and physical goods, but wow is he sweet. And hardworking. She is insta-smitten, but holding back, plus hiding things …

🎻𝄢 🎻𝄢 🎻𝄢

I was really drawn into both the day-to-day for these characters (primary and secondary) as well as the very interesting dynamics between characters.

He’s nearly the perfect man, all except for that massive chip on his shoulder that he has yet to heal from.

Secrets.
Instalove.
New friendships & found family.
She’s the wealthy one.
Mentions of CSA.
Dark pasts.


Overall:
What an incredibly sweet read to get lost into.

4 stars.

🎻𝄢 🎻𝄢 🎻𝄢

Thank you soooo much, Valentine PR, for choosing me to review an ALC of this stunning read—it was truly beautiful.


🎙️ Audiobook:
What a fantastic production—perfect, crisp sound quality and absolutely top-notch voice-acting. If you’re on the fence about which format to consume, this one gets my vote! 5 stars.

[DayLynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ARC REVIEW***

There is something about the way Jewel E Ann can make you feel like you are reading a love story but it turns into so much than that.
The Muse is no exception.

Flynn has never had an easy life and now he is working for a rich older couple being the wife’s muse. While working for them, he meets the woman of his dreams.

There is such a sweet innocence about Flynn & June. Both coming front different worlds, Jewel E Ann writes them so authentically. It’s real, honest, and emotional. And the development of these two characters were done so well.

Flynn is brutally honest but shows his side of vulnerability of going through life not knowing things. Rupert & Callie were so wonderful with him. Helping him and guiding him when he didn’t even realize, which makes it so much more endearing.

June was so sweet & wonderful. Dealing with her own trauma, all she wants is to find love like her parents. Which was wonderful to see Henna & Bodhi. She was compassionate with Flynn but it also didn’t come easy with secrets they were keeping.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was so much more than just a couple who fall in love, but the emotional growth that Flynn & June had. Yes it was messy and not easy, but finding out what is truly important.

[Jennifer Gauthier · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Muse....where to begin. This story is so dam good. I laughed, I smiled, I was pure giddy reading this. I really tried to take my time, but the story, the characters just suck you in and you say "oh just one more chapter" next thing you know dinner is burning, the dogs are hungry and you haven't moved for 3 hours. However, I gotta tell you it's the best feeling to find a story, an author who keeps you captive.

Flynn is heartbreaking, inspiring and a dam great book boyfriend!!! June is his perfect match, I adored them together. Rupert and Callie are the best (one of the best) surprises in this story. I couldn't get enough of Rupert, loved his humour, his story, his connection to Flynn. So many times Rupert had me howling with laughter. Callie was an incredible strong woman my heart broke for her and her door. I would love to know if there's any closure to that story.

I really hope there are more stories to come in The Chain of Lakes. Favourite book of this year so far.....seriously Jewel is the best.

A must read, but please read The House Maker first.

Bring on the book hangover.

[Jersy.the.romantasy.moms · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chicken fingers and fries can go a long way!

The Muse by @authorjeweleann
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 🌶🌶.5
Available on book and audio on May 28th!

I LOVE Flynn and June's story 😍 I wish I could experience it for the first time all over again! A meet cute start leads the way to budding feelings. These two have histories. And trying to find the right time to reveal them is half the struggle. Flynn and June are full of big feelings! There's healthy dose of laughs mixed in throughout. I fell in love with them both individually and together ❤️

Narrators @thevoiceoftimpaige and Charlotte North were perfect for these two. Tim brought all the charisma and good hearted sarcasm to Flynn. Charlotte made our June so loveable and hilarious. These two understood the assignment and brought these qualities to life for us. It was a 10/10 on voice performance for me!

Seriously, audiobooks can really bring stories up to a whole different level. And on the flip side, sometimes it doesn’t always hit the way you want it to in your heart. I cannot recommend The Muse audio enough!!! It's worth that credit, friends!

[Jessica Nason · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Whatever Jewel E. Ann writes, I will read. At this point she’s an auto-read author for me because every single book she puts out completely pulls me in, and The Muse was no exception. I absolutely loved Flynn and June together. Flynn had that perfect bad boy energy, but watching him slowly become a better person because of the people around him, especially Callie, made me love him even more.

I also really loved the little mystery woven throughout the story because it added so much intrigue without taking away from the romance. Rupert honestly stole so many scenes for me with the way he loved and protected Flynn. Their relationship added so much heart to the story.

And seeing Henna and Bodie from A Place Without You again made me ridiculously happy. It felt like everything came full circle in the best way and just reminded me why I love Jewel’s books so much. This book had emotion, chemistry, heartbreak, healing, and characters that completely stayed with me after I finished. Easily a five-star read for me.