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Love & Legacy #3
Sweet Surrender
Hating Jameson Murphy is easy.
Wanting him is where everything gets complicated.
He’s my best friend’s older brother.
My father’s star player.
A charmingly infuriating football god I’ve spent a lifetime avoiding and failing to ignore.
He should be the last man tempting me into bad decisions. But when a snowstorm grounds our flight, and champagne blurs our judgment, one reckless night shatters every rule I’ve put in place . . . leaving me with two little pink lines and one very big problem.
Now, thanks to an unreliable mother, a surprise baby sister, and a new living arrangement I never saw coming, my carefully crafted life is unraveling faster than the worn satin ribbon on my favorite old pointe shoes.
And Jameson?
He’s everywhere.
In my space.
In my secrets.
Looking at me like he already knows how this ends and how it doesn’t.
Forcing me to face a truth I’m not ready to accept . . .
What if surrender doesn’t mean losing yourself?
What if it’s about trusting someone else?
And maybe . . . just maybe, what if it means finally finding home?
Wanting him is where everything gets complicated.
He’s my best friend’s older brother.
My father’s star player.
A charmingly infuriating football god I’ve spent a lifetime avoiding and failing to ignore.
He should be the last man tempting me into bad decisions. But when a snowstorm grounds our flight, and champagne blurs our judgment, one reckless night shatters every rule I’ve put in place . . . leaving me with two little pink lines and one very big problem.
Now, thanks to an unreliable mother, a surprise baby sister, and a new living arrangement I never saw coming, my carefully crafted life is unraveling faster than the worn satin ribbon on my favorite old pointe shoes.
And Jameson?
He’s everywhere.
In my space.
In my secrets.
Looking at me like he already knows how this ends and how it doesn’t.
Forcing me to face a truth I’m not ready to accept . . .
What if surrender doesn’t mean losing yourself?
What if it’s about trusting someone else?
And maybe . . . just maybe, what if it means finally finding home?
326 pages, Paperback
Published February 9, 2026
1218 people are currently reading
2021 people want to read
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February 11, 2026
You’ll need to pry this book out of my cold dead hands. Because what do you mean I straight devoured this masterpiece? I know I have said this time and time again, but Bella sprinkles a little bit of magic in each book she delivers us. She brings me a sense of comfort and peace. Returning to Kroydon Hills feels like coming home to a nice warm hug. And dare I say, her books always heal a small piece of me with each story.
Jamie and Ashton's story grabbed me by the throat and didn't want to let go. I had to literally force myself to put this one down so I could savor this book because if not, I would have read this in one sitting. And the story was too good not to savor it. I quite literally loved every single piece of this book with every single fiber of my being. Like I knew I would love this book because, hello it's Bella Matthews, but I did NOT expect our ginger giant to turn me into the puddle that I now am. Like this man gave Ares Wilder a true run for his money, which IYKYK.
The plot of Sweet Surrender truly sucked me. These two have quite the history and on the surface it looks like they have enemies but at the end of the day, it's two people who have shared trauma who at a young age didn't know how to deal with that trauma which resulted in them pushing each other away. But one snow storm and a canceled flight later, these two get drunk in a shared hotel room to only wake up naked 👀 which results in an accidental pregnancy. But wait it gets better! Ashton has returned to Kroydon Hills to find out she is now the legal guardian of the baby sister she never knew existed and is now Jamie's new roommate because why not. And our ginger giant Jamie, he's a baby whisperer. Like every time this man held a baby, my millennial knees gave out. I'm pretty sure I'm still split splat on the floor.
Beyond that, the sarcastic banter between Jamie and Ashton was everything I wanted and more. Ashton has this snarky sarcastic personality which I loved. She is also someone who doesn't let people in easily, which is a result of how she approaches life. It creates fun banter but also a need for Jamie to knock down her walls. Also, the text messages! It's always something I look forward to with Bella's books. The text message group chats always send me for the loop. With Bella's strong found family trope that's weaved within her whole universe, you are bound to get an epic group chat that will have you laughing!
At the end of the day, Bella delivered another masterpiece. This love story has me by the throat and I haven't stopped thinking about it since I put it down. It's just literal perfection. My only complaint is I wish I savored this one more 🖤
You should read this book if you like:
- Football x Ballerina
- Accidental Pregnancy
- Single Guardian
- One Night Stand
- Snowed In
- Best Friend's Brother
- Roommates to Lovers
- Found Family
- Hate to Love
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Bella Matthews for allowing me the pleasure to read Sweet Surrender as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
Jamie and Ashton's story grabbed me by the throat and didn't want to let go. I had to literally force myself to put this one down so I could savor this book because if not, I would have read this in one sitting. And the story was too good not to savor it. I quite literally loved every single piece of this book with every single fiber of my being. Like I knew I would love this book because, hello it's Bella Matthews, but I did NOT expect our ginger giant to turn me into the puddle that I now am. Like this man gave Ares Wilder a true run for his money, which IYKYK.
The plot of Sweet Surrender truly sucked me. These two have quite the history and on the surface it looks like they have enemies but at the end of the day, it's two people who have shared trauma who at a young age didn't know how to deal with that trauma which resulted in them pushing each other away. But one snow storm and a canceled flight later, these two get drunk in a shared hotel room to only wake up naked 👀 which results in an accidental pregnancy. But wait it gets better! Ashton has returned to Kroydon Hills to find out she is now the legal guardian of the baby sister she never knew existed and is now Jamie's new roommate because why not. And our ginger giant Jamie, he's a baby whisperer. Like every time this man held a baby, my millennial knees gave out. I'm pretty sure I'm still split splat on the floor.
Beyond that, the sarcastic banter between Jamie and Ashton was everything I wanted and more. Ashton has this snarky sarcastic personality which I loved. She is also someone who doesn't let people in easily, which is a result of how she approaches life. It creates fun banter but also a need for Jamie to knock down her walls. Also, the text messages! It's always something I look forward to with Bella's books. The text message group chats always send me for the loop. With Bella's strong found family trope that's weaved within her whole universe, you are bound to get an epic group chat that will have you laughing!
At the end of the day, Bella delivered another masterpiece. This love story has me by the throat and I haven't stopped thinking about it since I put it down. It's just literal perfection. My only complaint is I wish I savored this one more 🖤
You should read this book if you like:
- Football x Ballerina
- Accidental Pregnancy
- Single Guardian
- One Night Stand
- Snowed In
- Best Friend's Brother
- Roommates to Lovers
- Found Family
- Hate to Love
* I would like to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Bella Matthews for allowing me the pleasure to read Sweet Surrender as an ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Honestly, I can’t say “this is the best book Bella has written,” because I say that every single time… and that’s because all of her books are the best she’s ever written. So what am I supposed to do? I love her 😭🥺🥰❤️
Anyway, thank you to Bella and her entire team for letting me read this ARC once again. I’m still shocked at how fast I devoured it: it arrived last night at 11 p.m., and by 2 p.m. today I was already done. Who am I? An addict. LOL.
Now, where do I even start? This book had me like 👁️👁️ the entire time because it includes ALL my favorite tropes: sports romance, single guardian, accidental pregnancy, billionaires??? I mean… who doesn’t like to dream a little? 😂 Ashton and Jameson take center stage in this third book of the second generation, and OMG, I honestly think it’s my favorite in the series so far. I didn’t expect to feel such a strong connection between them. The book starts strong, with situations that leave you completely off balance—both heartbreaking and rage-inducing. Ashton is a young woman who has suffered so much in life; she lost everything, and when she returns to Kroydon Hills after many years, she expected anything , and definitely not moving into a house with three incredibly attractive men.
And Jameson… wow. What can I even say about him? WHAT. A. MAN. I love that he’s introduced as a manwhore when we all know he’s actually a total sweetheart—a golden retriever who turns into a Rottweiler when pushed 🫠. He’s protective, loyal, and honestly everything we have to admit we want in a man: a partner, loving, dependable, and above all, yours.
This book delivers plot twists you absolutely do not see coming, and WOW, Bella—you did that. I think this is the first book where nothing, but nothing, is what you expect, and yet you still drop that bomb on us.
Overall: I loved it, I will reread it, and I will be happy.
Thank you again 💖
Anyway, thank you to Bella and her entire team for letting me read this ARC once again. I’m still shocked at how fast I devoured it: it arrived last night at 11 p.m., and by 2 p.m. today I was already done. Who am I? An addict. LOL.
Now, where do I even start? This book had me like 👁️👁️ the entire time because it includes ALL my favorite tropes: sports romance, single guardian, accidental pregnancy, billionaires??? I mean… who doesn’t like to dream a little? 😂 Ashton and Jameson take center stage in this third book of the second generation, and OMG, I honestly think it’s my favorite in the series so far. I didn’t expect to feel such a strong connection between them. The book starts strong, with situations that leave you completely off balance—both heartbreaking and rage-inducing. Ashton is a young woman who has suffered so much in life; she lost everything, and when she returns to Kroydon Hills after many years, she expected anything , and definitely not moving into a house with three incredibly attractive men.
And Jameson… wow. What can I even say about him? WHAT. A. MAN. I love that he’s introduced as a manwhore when we all know he’s actually a total sweetheart—a golden retriever who turns into a Rottweiler when pushed 🫠. He’s protective, loyal, and honestly everything we have to admit we want in a man: a partner, loving, dependable, and above all, yours.
This book delivers plot twists you absolutely do not see coming, and WOW, Bella—you did that. I think this is the first book where nothing, but nothing, is what you expect, and yet you still drop that bomb on us.
Overall: I loved it, I will reread it, and I will be happy.
Thank you again 💖
February 12, 2026
This series 🔥
🎶 Fever Dream by Alex Warren
Single gaurdian gets me every time.
But throw in a surprise pregnancy too. Oh my gawd.
Ashton & Jamie 💕
Ballerina x NFL pro baller
Childhood friendship
- their past story was 😭
His little brother is her best friend
Ashton: the poor girl has had some rough go’s
Jamie: um loved him, the men in this series know what(who) they want and they go for it all in no doubts
No games 🙌
The group chats were fire. Guy group and girl gang.
That ending was 🤯
I did not see ANY of that coming.
Loved these two.
Sweet surrender was a solid title.
“When you finally realize each day that passes isn’t one more day, but actually one day less, you’ll never look at life the same way you did before.”
Arc review ✨
🎶 Fever Dream by Alex Warren
Single gaurdian gets me every time.
But throw in a surprise pregnancy too. Oh my gawd.
Ashton & Jamie 💕
Ballerina x NFL pro baller
Childhood friendship
- their past story was 😭
His little brother is her best friend
Ashton: the poor girl has had some rough go’s
Jamie: um loved him, the men in this series know what(who) they want and they go for it all in no doubts
No games 🙌
The group chats were fire. Guy group and girl gang.
That ending was 🤯
I did not see ANY of that coming.
Loved these two.
Sweet surrender was a solid title.
“When you finally realize each day that passes isn’t one more day, but actually one day less, you’ll never look at life the same way you did before.”
Arc review ✨
February 17, 2026
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️.5
Well grab your tissues, prepare to have your heart on the floor, and buckle up for a fantastic read. Bella has done it again, and this might just be my favorite book she has ever written. Ashton and Jamie were everything I didn’t know I need, and I have to say this was an accidental pregnant i absolutely loved.
My woman. My babies. My family…. Swoon
Well that might as well be Bella’s new tagline because it works perfectly for the world she has built.
✨ Football Player x Ballerina
✨ Enemies to Lovers
✨ Brother's Best Friend
✨ Accidental Pregnancy
✨ Single Guardian
✨ Black Cat x Golden Retriever
I loved this from the very first chapter, and of course the banter was top tier. Jamie and Ashton are childhood friends that were just on the verge of “more” when their whole word got altered and they fell out…. And omg once you find out what happened….
I had to quit reading for a minute and just sob in my car at 2pm because reading this in public wrecked me. But then it put me back together again as these two found each other again right when and how they were supposed to.
I also loved the single guardian aspect of this as Ashton stepped up for her baby sister, and how protective of both of them Jamie became of both of them.
This is quintessential Bella rip your heart out romance at its finest and I do believe I will NEVER get over them.
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️.5
Well grab your tissues, prepare to have your heart on the floor, and buckle up for a fantastic read. Bella has done it again, and this might just be my favorite book she has ever written. Ashton and Jamie were everything I didn’t know I need, and I have to say this was an accidental pregnant i absolutely loved.
My woman. My babies. My family…. Swoon
Well that might as well be Bella’s new tagline because it works perfectly for the world she has built.
✨ Football Player x Ballerina
✨ Enemies to Lovers
✨ Brother's Best Friend
✨ Accidental Pregnancy
✨ Single Guardian
✨ Black Cat x Golden Retriever
I loved this from the very first chapter, and of course the banter was top tier. Jamie and Ashton are childhood friends that were just on the verge of “more” when their whole word got altered and they fell out…. And omg once you find out what happened….
I had to quit reading for a minute and just sob in my car at 2pm because reading this in public wrecked me. But then it put me back together again as these two found each other again right when and how they were supposed to.
I also loved the single guardian aspect of this as Ashton stepped up for her baby sister, and how protective of both of them Jamie became of both of them.
This is quintessential Bella rip your heart out romance at its finest and I do believe I will NEVER get over them.
February 17, 2026
5🌟, 3🌶️
I completely surrendered to Sweet Surrender in a way that felt almost unfair.
Returning to Kroydon Hills felt comforting and familiar, but this story reached deeper and held onto me tighter. It pulled me in so easily, wrapping me in its emotion and refusing to let go long after I turned the page.
Jamie and Ashton’s story was emotional, layered, and full of history that never stopped mattering. Their pain, their growth, and the way they slowly found their way back to each other made every moment feel raw and meaningful. Watching Ashton step into her strength while Jamie loved her with such quiet devotion completely unraveled me. His protectiveness, his softness, and the way he showed up without hesitation made their love feel deeply earned and impossible not to feel.
This story gave me heartbreak, healing, and a love that felt both fragile and unbreakable. It left me emotional in the best way, completely consumed by their journey and everything they fought to find together.
This love story left its mark on me in the best possible way.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Bella Matthews and Valentine PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
I completely surrendered to Sweet Surrender in a way that felt almost unfair.
Returning to Kroydon Hills felt comforting and familiar, but this story reached deeper and held onto me tighter. It pulled me in so easily, wrapping me in its emotion and refusing to let go long after I turned the page.
Jamie and Ashton’s story was emotional, layered, and full of history that never stopped mattering. Their pain, their growth, and the way they slowly found their way back to each other made every moment feel raw and meaningful. Watching Ashton step into her strength while Jamie loved her with such quiet devotion completely unraveled me. His protectiveness, his softness, and the way he showed up without hesitation made their love feel deeply earned and impossible not to feel.
This story gave me heartbreak, healing, and a love that felt both fragile and unbreakable. It left me emotional in the best way, completely consumed by their journey and everything they fought to find together.
This love story left its mark on me in the best possible way.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Bella Matthews and Valentine PR for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
February 12, 2026
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Stand-alone: Yes***
Author: Bella Matthews
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 3/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Jamie and Ashton
Trope(s): Sports Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Accidental Pregnancy, Single Guardian, Best Friend’s Brother
….“I’ve wanted to kiss you since you were fifteen years old and I realized you were the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.”
His words are like a balm washing over all the jagged pieces of my tattered soul. “What are you waiting for?”
“Permission,” he growls as his lips ghost over mine. “Give me permission, Ashton.”
I am all for this second generation Kroydon Hills found family and family having all these babies because it means that Bella will NEVER have to leave and write about anything else. And, that is fine with me. Do you need to have read all the books in order, no, you could pick this book up and enjoy the absolute hell out of it. But, should you read all the books in order, yes, because they are absolute fire. Again, we have low angst, tragic past that binds people together in ways only they can understand, a MMC who is ready to burn the world down for the FMC, a FMC who you want to be in your girl gang because she’s all that, found family, oversharing friends, and the book club is back. And they are looking to add another member.
Ashton Carmichael left Kroydon Hills at the age of sixteen to pursue her dream of dance just as her world fell apart. But, the move to Chicago was her escape and she hasn’t looked back.
Jamie Murphy, offensive line-man for the Kings, and her best friend’s brother. And, at one time her first love and friend.
But, tragedy tore them apart.
Ten years later Ashton finds herself stuck in a storm trying to return to Kroydon Hills to take care of another one of her mother’s issues.
And, who just happens to be also trying to fly to Philadelphia from Chicago? Yep, Jamie.
Who happens to be able to get one of the last hotel rooms available? Yep, Jamie again.
Who decides to drink Champagne and eat chocolate for dinner and end up in bed together? Ding, ding, ding- Ashton and Jamie.
Ashton finds herself with a three month old sister, Kyrie, she knew nothing about. Her mother is facing jail time. Father unknown, leaving her to step up or have foster care step in.
Ashton finds herself needing a place to live, help navigating raising her sister, and a job because going back to Chicago is now impossible.
A girl could do worse than living in Jamie’s massive house with him, Finn and Ryker. Teaching ballet to little girls. Acquiring a girl squad. And, creating a life for her and Kyrie, giving her the stability she never had.
Living with the baby whisperer, Jamie, who now is trying hard to get back into her good graces. Because he blew up their friendship once, he wasn’t making that same mistake again.
Ashton is end game for him.
But, first Bella is gonna make us go through it, so buckle up buttercups.
Stand-alone: Yes***
Author: Bella Matthews
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spiciness Rating: 3/5 🌶
POV: First Person Dual Perspective
Main Couple: Jamie and Ashton
Trope(s): Sports Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Accidental Pregnancy, Single Guardian, Best Friend’s Brother
….“I’ve wanted to kiss you since you were fifteen years old and I realized you were the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.”
His words are like a balm washing over all the jagged pieces of my tattered soul. “What are you waiting for?”
“Permission,” he growls as his lips ghost over mine. “Give me permission, Ashton.”
I am all for this second generation Kroydon Hills found family and family having all these babies because it means that Bella will NEVER have to leave and write about anything else. And, that is fine with me. Do you need to have read all the books in order, no, you could pick this book up and enjoy the absolute hell out of it. But, should you read all the books in order, yes, because they are absolute fire. Again, we have low angst, tragic past that binds people together in ways only they can understand, a MMC who is ready to burn the world down for the FMC, a FMC who you want to be in your girl gang because she’s all that, found family, oversharing friends, and the book club is back. And they are looking to add another member.
Ashton Carmichael left Kroydon Hills at the age of sixteen to pursue her dream of dance just as her world fell apart. But, the move to Chicago was her escape and she hasn’t looked back.
Jamie Murphy, offensive line-man for the Kings, and her best friend’s brother. And, at one time her first love and friend.
But, tragedy tore them apart.
Ten years later Ashton finds herself stuck in a storm trying to return to Kroydon Hills to take care of another one of her mother’s issues.
And, who just happens to be also trying to fly to Philadelphia from Chicago? Yep, Jamie.
Who happens to be able to get one of the last hotel rooms available? Yep, Jamie again.
Who decides to drink Champagne and eat chocolate for dinner and end up in bed together? Ding, ding, ding- Ashton and Jamie.
Ashton finds herself with a three month old sister, Kyrie, she knew nothing about. Her mother is facing jail time. Father unknown, leaving her to step up or have foster care step in.
Ashton finds herself needing a place to live, help navigating raising her sister, and a job because going back to Chicago is now impossible.
A girl could do worse than living in Jamie’s massive house with him, Finn and Ryker. Teaching ballet to little girls. Acquiring a girl squad. And, creating a life for her and Kyrie, giving her the stability she never had.
Living with the baby whisperer, Jamie, who now is trying hard to get back into her good graces. Because he blew up their friendship once, he wasn’t making that same mistake again.
Ashton is end game for him.
But, first Bella is gonna make us go through it, so buckle up buttercups.
February 13, 2026
4.5⭐️
February 12, 2026
Jameson Murphy showed up y’all!! The man appears to dislike Ashton, his brother’s best friend but that’s a big facade. This couple has history and it’s deep and painful but dealing with it was necessary for them to face their true feelings.
Jamie and Aston are coincidentally both stranded at the airport during a snowstorm. Jamie offers to share his room with Aston but they end up sharing so much more. When they finally make it to Kroydon Hills, Aston ends up staying in Jamie’s home with her baby sister that she just learned about. Ashton plays tough but she eventually learns to accept help from Jamie and the guys and she finds friendship with the girls. Jamie has to convince her to give him the chance to love her.
This is a story about friendship that changed because of life’s experiences and growth that brings that friendship full circle where love meets you. I loved this book so much and I will definitely reread it.
**I received an advanced copy of this book for free and I am voluntarily leaving this review.**
Jamie and Aston are coincidentally both stranded at the airport during a snowstorm. Jamie offers to share his room with Aston but they end up sharing so much more. When they finally make it to Kroydon Hills, Aston ends up staying in Jamie’s home with her baby sister that she just learned about. Ashton plays tough but she eventually learns to accept help from Jamie and the guys and she finds friendship with the girls. Jamie has to convince her to give him the chance to love her.
This is a story about friendship that changed because of life’s experiences and growth that brings that friendship full circle where love meets you. I loved this book so much and I will definitely reread it.
**I received an advanced copy of this book for free and I am voluntarily leaving this review.**
February 11, 2026
As always, Bella Matthews brings a world of the biggest and best found family. Jamie is a character that we’ve seen before - he is besties with Ryker and Maverick, and son to OG couple Aiden and Sabrina.
🩷Forced proximity
🩷Single guardian
🩷ONS turned more
🩷Best friend’s brother
🩷Accidental pregnancy
Ashton and Jamie have always been in each other’s lives. They were the best of friends, until tragedy pulled them apart. Many years later they have one amazing night together and then the next day, Ashton’s life gets turned upset down. And once again get turned upside down months later.
I felt so hard for Ashton throughout this whole book. She has had a difficult life, and that seems to somehow get harder as the book goes on!
Jamie is the ultimate cinnamon roll and I loved him for it. The way he loves Ashton and everything in her life had me swooning.
🩷Forced proximity
🩷Single guardian
🩷ONS turned more
🩷Best friend’s brother
🩷Accidental pregnancy
Ashton and Jamie have always been in each other’s lives. They were the best of friends, until tragedy pulled them apart. Many years later they have one amazing night together and then the next day, Ashton’s life gets turned upset down. And once again get turned upside down months later.
I felt so hard for Ashton throughout this whole book. She has had a difficult life, and that seems to somehow get harder as the book goes on!
Jamie is the ultimate cinnamon roll and I loved him for it. The way he loves Ashton and everything in her life had me swooning.
February 12, 2026
YES YES YES BELLA MATTHEWS ALWAYS YES!
Jamie (Jameson) Murphy is the child of Aiden and Sabrina from (More Than a Game) and he is in love with his coach's/ brothers best friend Ashton.
He's been in love with Ashton since they were kid but after a tragic loss they grew apart and thought they hated each other but 1 night in Chicago changed that all and they realised that they were always going to be end game.
Ashton has to unexpectedly take custody of her 3 month old sister and Ashton and Jamie work together to create a little family with love and respect all while finding out they too are going to have a biological child of their own.
This book was so sweet and i love love Bella Matthews and her writing all of her books just get me in the feels and are exactly what i need in a book.
i wish i could just have a new Belle Matthews book daily because she's everything and more!
Jamie (Jameson) Murphy is the child of Aiden and Sabrina from (More Than a Game) and he is in love with his coach's/ brothers best friend Ashton.
He's been in love with Ashton since they were kid but after a tragic loss they grew apart and thought they hated each other but 1 night in Chicago changed that all and they realised that they were always going to be end game.
Ashton has to unexpectedly take custody of her 3 month old sister and Ashton and Jamie work together to create a little family with love and respect all while finding out they too are going to have a biological child of their own.
This book was so sweet and i love love Bella Matthews and her writing all of her books just get me in the feels and are exactly what i need in a book.
i wish i could just have a new Belle Matthews book daily because she's everything and more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐️
2🌶
This is my favorite Bella Matthews book. HANDS DOWN. I was completely consumed by their story and that little suspense plot 😯😯😯😯 are you kidddding me.
I wasn't expecting it to be so emotional but my
girl, Ashton, had been through so much and the hits just kept on coming. The found family she created with the guys and then the book club girls made me so happy.
Daddddy Jamieeeee. 😍😍😍 I'm obsessed with him. Finding out why he did what he did with Ashton when they were kids broke me, but fate brought them back together and he was determined to not make the same mistakes.
I also enjoyed getting to see more of Ryker and Finn. I'm impatiently waiting to see who the next book with be!
2🌶
This is my favorite Bella Matthews book. HANDS DOWN. I was completely consumed by their story and that little suspense plot 😯😯😯😯 are you kidddding me.
I wasn't expecting it to be so emotional but my
girl, Ashton, had been through so much and the hits just kept on coming. The found family she created with the guys and then the book club girls made me so happy.
Daddddy Jamieeeee. 😍😍😍 I'm obsessed with him. Finding out why he did what he did with Ashton when they were kids broke me, but fate brought them back together and he was determined to not make the same mistakes.
I also enjoyed getting to see more of Ryker and Finn. I'm impatiently waiting to see who the next book with be!
February 13, 2026
I absolutely love this series (actually this entire world of Kroydon Hills and all it's amazing characters). The story comes to love in the best way. This author has a very special way about her - always feels like I'm wrapped in a warm hug whenever I read her stories.
Jamie and Ashton, gah these two. Their hearts were hurting and they needed each other so bad. Last conversations with someone sent their world into motion in an entirely different way. They were in each other's despite it, but were never able to act on anything.... until a canceled flight due to a snow storm has them together with nothing to do to pass the time besides, well ya know
These two were special. I adore Jamie so much. Ash got on my nerves a bit, but I understood why she was the way she was. One woman can only hold so much baggage on their shoulders until it just becomes too much.
As always the text threads between them all was amazing. I always get a kick outta them. Oh and Ryker... I loveee him!
Jamie and Ashton, gah these two. Their hearts were hurting and they needed each other so bad. Last conversations with someone sent their world into motion in an entirely different way. They were in each other's despite it, but were never able to act on anything.... until a canceled flight due to a snow storm has them together with nothing to do to pass the time besides, well ya know
These two were special. I adore Jamie so much. Ash got on my nerves a bit, but I understood why she was the way she was. One woman can only hold so much baggage on their shoulders until it just becomes too much.
As always the text threads between them all was amazing. I always get a kick outta them. Oh and Ryker... I loveee him!
Review of advance copy
Sweet Surrender was an emotional rollercoaster. Ashton returns to Kroydon Hills after getting a call about her mom being in trouble. During a grounded flight, she meets up with Jamie, her best friend's brother. They end up spending the night together before her world is completely flipped. She not only has a surprise baby sister to worry about, two pink lines change everything. Ashton and Jamie now have to navigate life when the person you've always been in love with doesn't love you back, or so you think.
February 14, 2026
I loved this book so much. Ashton and Jamie were so perfect for each other. They have a shared history and end up stranded together in a snowstorm. Their banter was everything and I loved how sassy Ashton was with Jamie.
As always the text messages were hilarious as well. Jamie was so protective of Ashton too and I loved that. The plot twists I definitely didn't see coming and they made the book so much better.
This book was everything and I loved reading it.
As always the text messages were hilarious as well. Jamie was so protective of Ashton too and I loved that. The plot twists I definitely didn't see coming and they made the book so much better.
This book was everything and I loved reading it.
February 15, 2026
Unfortunately, this didn’t hit for me overall. I enjoyed the leads’ history, chemistry, the brother’s best friend angle, and almost everything about Jameson. However, it was SO much. The baby sister, the pregnancy, the kidnapping, the mother, the biological father, the father who raised her, the other sister, the list goes on and on. It was too much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2026
I read this as an ARC and omg it was so good! It will have you laughing, crying and falling in love with them! I instantly went and purchased the signed copy after reading it!!
February 17, 2026
A little bit of random tropes, couple of good jokes, insane amount of sugar and almost no plot. But could be worse.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Jamie Murphy and Ashton Carmichael's book.
I can not express how much I loved this book! Bella has a way of getting you to fall in love with this universe of hers. She gets you to love the characters and having you so wrapped up in the drama going on in-between the pages that you can't put the book down until it's finished and then wanting to go back and re-read it again. I'm obsessed with her writing, all her books and every character that gets a story. I've never read a bad book by her and will sing her praises and suggest all her books to anyone that loves romance and HEA!
Tropes:
🏈 Sports Romance (Football)
🩰 Surprise/Accidental Pregnancy
🏈 Little Brother's Best Friend
🩰 Single Guardian
🏈 Enemies to Lovers
🩰 Roommates
🏈 Traumatic Past & Healing
🩰 Found Family
🏈 Coach's Daughter
🩰Book Club Banter Text
I knew I was going to love Jamie's book from the type of personality he had in past books. He's the "glass half full" kind of guy. Always happy, always having a good time, always being the funny guy much like his father, Aiden.
I knew there had to be more to this man, and boy was I correct. He always shows up and is always making others feel better. Everyone always calls him a manwh**e, and never took him seriously. How come Dillan is the only person that can see the truth about others in these books? She knew Jamie wasn't a player.
Ashton grew up with Jamie and his brother, Finn. She was always Finn's best friend and Jamie was her older brother, Evan's best friend. They were neighbors as well growing up. Jamie is 2 years older than Ashton, but he had a crush on her in high school. Ashton had a crush on Jamie during that time too. But conversations and tragedy caused them to pull apart and eventually become enemies.
Ashton and Finn became close after this tragedy and everyone thought they would be the couple getting together. But behind it all, Ashton never had feelings for Finn like that. It was only ever his brother.
Ashton lived in Chicago, living her life as a professional ballerina. She gets a call that she needs to come home because of legal trouble with her mom, again. Her home life was never perfect, and her parents were never around and she pretty much only ever had her brother, Finn and Jamie growing up.
While waiting at the airport to fly home, she runs into Jamie who is on the same flight. The plane has been delayed and finally cancels because of a snow storm that hit. There aren't any hotel rooms available anywhere and her only option is to share a room with Jamie for the night.
Side note: Can we talk about Hendrix and that major tidbit Bella threw in there for us...I mean what? I'm so ready for his story and I'm thinking he's e coming home to Kroydon Hills to be closer to family.. maybe for them to help him and his...
Ok, back on track. Let's just say these 2, Jamie and Ashton in a hotel room, getting drunk...things can happen. We don't actually get what went down in this book, just little mentions of it throughout. It skips over that night, which I wish we would have got. We get the next morning when Ashton wakes up naked, cuddled with Jamie.
These 2 don't get to talk about what happened after they wake up due to being rushed to get back to the airport. Just a lot of reminders and soreness for Ashton 😉
When she arrives back in Kroydon Hills, Ashton's world gets flipped upside down. Her whole life changes overnight, and the people there for her are Finn, Jamie and Ryker. She moved in with these guys into Jamie's house with her baby sister that she now has custody of. A 3 month old sister she knew nothing about!!
If you think that's strange, just wait until you dig into this book. What a POS her mother was. Then you have her father that left her when she was young and hardly talks to her. Her dad is also one of Jamie's football coach's. Jamie said it perfectly in the book. He had a hard time with trying to see how the coach he respected could also be this crap dad to his daughter he saw growing up.
The enemies to lovers trope in this book was spot on and perfect. You could feel it through Ashton and her behavior towards Jamie. He was done with the hate and was going after the girl he always wanted.
When you read how they became enemies, it will break your heart. I can only imagine going through what they did and coming out hurt, heartbroken, lost and hate. Not only at each other but towards themselves as well.
They had a lot to work out and my man Jamie wasn't giving up. He knew what he wanted, and it was finally the right time to go after it. What they weren't planning on was 2 pink lines from their night in Chicago. Not only that, they had Finn to worry about a well.
I love how we finally got to see Aiden and Sabrina again. I feel like I haven't read about them since the first generation series. Aiden is still goofy and Jamie is so much like him. Such a teddy bear. I loved how they loved Kyrie like their own grandchild. How Jamie loved and cared for her like his own child.
There is not 1 thing you won't love about this book. And the suspense towards the end. Wow, I was sucked into this book and couldn't put it down.
We got a few new characters. Johna, is Jamies's little from the big brother program. He's a 12 year old boy that looks up to Jamie. He lives with his single mom that works all the time. He also becomes close to Ashton and the book club girls. How this boy showed up for Ashton when the bad part happens towards the end. I hope we see more of him in the future.
Delaney, who is a surprise sister. She is also the one who helped save Ashton. You can tell she had a tough life growing up and was abused. She is a part of the club now and always around. She also was bossy to Finn in the hospital, and he listened to her. Maybe something might be there??
Finn is in this book quite a bit. As Jamie's younger brother by 2 years, he is very smart and a surgeon. We have another doctor in this world. He's very protective of Ashton, and is her best friend.
So the next 2 books, one will be Rykers and the other will be Hendrix's. Not sure what order though. I'm thinking Ryker and Kaleigh, maybe. I'm hoping she'll get a book with one of these men. She's in this world and series a lot. We got some of her story in Dillan and Rome's book, and we get a bit more in this one. I think it's her and her sister and her sister's 2 kids. Who knows, maybe her sister will get a book with one of these men. You never know with Bella!
This is a must-read book and series. It can be read as a standalone, but I recommend the series in general. I recommend reading all her books, or get them on audiobook. I always buy the audiobooks when they come out.
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Jamie Murphy and Ashton Carmichael's book.
I can not express how much I loved this book! Bella has a way of getting you to fall in love with this universe of hers. She gets you to love the characters and having you so wrapped up in the drama going on in-between the pages that you can't put the book down until it's finished and then wanting to go back and re-read it again. I'm obsessed with her writing, all her books and every character that gets a story. I've never read a bad book by her and will sing her praises and suggest all her books to anyone that loves romance and HEA!
Tropes:
🏈 Sports Romance (Football)
🩰 Surprise/Accidental Pregnancy
🏈 Little Brother's Best Friend
🩰 Single Guardian
🏈 Enemies to Lovers
🩰 Roommates
🏈 Traumatic Past & Healing
🩰 Found Family
🏈 Coach's Daughter
🩰Book Club Banter Text
I knew I was going to love Jamie's book from the type of personality he had in past books. He's the "glass half full" kind of guy. Always happy, always having a good time, always being the funny guy much like his father, Aiden.
I knew there had to be more to this man, and boy was I correct. He always shows up and is always making others feel better. Everyone always calls him a manwh**e, and never took him seriously. How come Dillan is the only person that can see the truth about others in these books? She knew Jamie wasn't a player.
Ashton grew up with Jamie and his brother, Finn. She was always Finn's best friend and Jamie was her older brother, Evan's best friend. They were neighbors as well growing up. Jamie is 2 years older than Ashton, but he had a crush on her in high school. Ashton had a crush on Jamie during that time too. But conversations and tragedy caused them to pull apart and eventually become enemies.
Ashton and Finn became close after this tragedy and everyone thought they would be the couple getting together. But behind it all, Ashton never had feelings for Finn like that. It was only ever his brother.
Ashton lived in Chicago, living her life as a professional ballerina. She gets a call that she needs to come home because of legal trouble with her mom, again. Her home life was never perfect, and her parents were never around and she pretty much only ever had her brother, Finn and Jamie growing up.
While waiting at the airport to fly home, she runs into Jamie who is on the same flight. The plane has been delayed and finally cancels because of a snow storm that hit. There aren't any hotel rooms available anywhere and her only option is to share a room with Jamie for the night.
Side note: Can we talk about Hendrix and that major tidbit Bella threw in there for us...I mean what? I'm so ready for his story and I'm thinking he's e coming home to Kroydon Hills to be closer to family.. maybe for them to help him and his...
Ok, back on track. Let's just say these 2, Jamie and Ashton in a hotel room, getting drunk...things can happen. We don't actually get what went down in this book, just little mentions of it throughout. It skips over that night, which I wish we would have got. We get the next morning when Ashton wakes up naked, cuddled with Jamie.
These 2 don't get to talk about what happened after they wake up due to being rushed to get back to the airport. Just a lot of reminders and soreness for Ashton 😉
When she arrives back in Kroydon Hills, Ashton's world gets flipped upside down. Her whole life changes overnight, and the people there for her are Finn, Jamie and Ryker. She moved in with these guys into Jamie's house with her baby sister that she now has custody of. A 3 month old sister she knew nothing about!!
If you think that's strange, just wait until you dig into this book. What a POS her mother was. Then you have her father that left her when she was young and hardly talks to her. Her dad is also one of Jamie's football coach's. Jamie said it perfectly in the book. He had a hard time with trying to see how the coach he respected could also be this crap dad to his daughter he saw growing up.
The enemies to lovers trope in this book was spot on and perfect. You could feel it through Ashton and her behavior towards Jamie. He was done with the hate and was going after the girl he always wanted.
When you read how they became enemies, it will break your heart. I can only imagine going through what they did and coming out hurt, heartbroken, lost and hate. Not only at each other but towards themselves as well.
They had a lot to work out and my man Jamie wasn't giving up. He knew what he wanted, and it was finally the right time to go after it. What they weren't planning on was 2 pink lines from their night in Chicago. Not only that, they had Finn to worry about a well.
I love how we finally got to see Aiden and Sabrina again. I feel like I haven't read about them since the first generation series. Aiden is still goofy and Jamie is so much like him. Such a teddy bear. I loved how they loved Kyrie like their own grandchild. How Jamie loved and cared for her like his own child.
There is not 1 thing you won't love about this book. And the suspense towards the end. Wow, I was sucked into this book and couldn't put it down.
We got a few new characters. Johna, is Jamies's little from the big brother program. He's a 12 year old boy that looks up to Jamie. He lives with his single mom that works all the time. He also becomes close to Ashton and the book club girls. How this boy showed up for Ashton when the bad part happens towards the end. I hope we see more of him in the future.
Delaney, who is a surprise sister. She is also the one who helped save Ashton. You can tell she had a tough life growing up and was abused. She is a part of the club now and always around. She also was bossy to Finn in the hospital, and he listened to her. Maybe something might be there??
Finn is in this book quite a bit. As Jamie's younger brother by 2 years, he is very smart and a surgeon. We have another doctor in this world. He's very protective of Ashton, and is her best friend.
So the next 2 books, one will be Rykers and the other will be Hendrix's. Not sure what order though. I'm thinking Ryker and Kaleigh, maybe. I'm hoping she'll get a book with one of these men. She's in this world and series a lot. We got some of her story in Dillan and Rome's book, and we get a bit more in this one. I think it's her and her sister and her sister's 2 kids. Who knows, maybe her sister will get a book with one of these men. You never know with Bella!
This is a must-read book and series. It can be read as a standalone, but I recommend the series in general. I recommend reading all her books, or get them on audiobook. I always buy the audiobooks when they come out.
February 14, 2026
Bella Matthews, what kind of magic did you weave? I don't know if I want to cry or giggle.
Seriously....those Murphy fellas 🫶🏽. Jamie, Finn, and even their dad Aiden. I'm in love with them all. Ryker too but he's not a Murphy. Watching all of those men get wrapped around a baby girl's finger that is nothing to them, just to become her family. 😭🥰
Watching Jamie admit he's in love with Ashton was just icing on the cake. The way I swoon for all the things he says and does. UGH. If you haven't read this, you are seriously missing out.
I loved Ashton too. I couldn't figure out what happened between her and J until it was revealed, but I had a feeling. And the truth hurt my heart so badly. 💔 When you read about how she steps up for Kyrie and all the pain she has gone through...then when she finally gives in to her feelings for J. Le sigh.
I DEVOURED this book and now need more. Pronto. Stat. Last week if possible.
Best part for me? The inner thoughts at the beginning of every chapter and the banter between characters.
❤️🔥 Lines:
"I'm not glaring," I snap. "I'm manifesting violence."
My original plans for today included Netflix, ice cream, and a horror movie where the hot guy dies. Enough said.
Very mature. Very platonic. Very 80s sitcom.
Sometimes I wonder if my life would be like this if I'd just forwarded that stupid message to ten people back in middle school. Oh well. . . You live and learn.
‼️I've always been someone with a noisy brain. That person who is a terrible sleeper because I just can't quiet the noise. It's so easy to hyper fixate on whatever the newest issue is.‼️
My ducks are not in a row. Pretty sure a few ran away. One is on freaking fire. And I think one might actually be a baby chicken. Can someone please tell me how the hell to get them in a row? I'd really appreciate the cheat sheet.
Okay, what I do know is my pity party is annoying me, and it's pretty bad when you're annoying yourself.
When you finally realize each day that passes isn't one more day, but actually one day less, you'll never look at life the same way you did before.
She doesn't want a big life. She wants a beautiful one. And I will spend my life giving her that. 😭😍
Seriously....those Murphy fellas 🫶🏽. Jamie, Finn, and even their dad Aiden. I'm in love with them all. Ryker too but he's not a Murphy. Watching all of those men get wrapped around a baby girl's finger that is nothing to them, just to become her family. 😭🥰
Watching Jamie admit he's in love with Ashton was just icing on the cake. The way I swoon for all the things he says and does. UGH. If you haven't read this, you are seriously missing out.
I loved Ashton too. I couldn't figure out what happened between her and J until it was revealed, but I had a feeling. And the truth hurt my heart so badly. 💔 When you read about how she steps up for Kyrie and all the pain she has gone through...then when she finally gives in to her feelings for J. Le sigh.
I DEVOURED this book and now need more. Pronto. Stat. Last week if possible.
Best part for me? The inner thoughts at the beginning of every chapter and the banter between characters.
❤️🔥 Lines:
"I'm not glaring," I snap. "I'm manifesting violence."
My original plans for today included Netflix, ice cream, and a horror movie where the hot guy dies. Enough said.
Very mature. Very platonic. Very 80s sitcom.
Sometimes I wonder if my life would be like this if I'd just forwarded that stupid message to ten people back in middle school. Oh well. . . You live and learn.
‼️I've always been someone with a noisy brain. That person who is a terrible sleeper because I just can't quiet the noise. It's so easy to hyper fixate on whatever the newest issue is.‼️
My ducks are not in a row. Pretty sure a few ran away. One is on freaking fire. And I think one might actually be a baby chicken. Can someone please tell me how the hell to get them in a row? I'd really appreciate the cheat sheet.
Okay, what I do know is my pity party is annoying me, and it's pretty bad when you're annoying yourself.
When you finally realize each day that passes isn't one more day, but actually one day less, you'll never look at life the same way you did before.
She doesn't want a big life. She wants a beautiful one. And I will spend my life giving her that. 😭😍
February 12, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Sweet Surrender is the 3rd book in the Love & Legacy series, and an absolute new favorite. Jameson Murphy is a new book boyfriend! He completely stole my heart and may be one of my top Bella heroes. However, Bella always give me amazing men that are guaranteed to be on my book boyfriend list.
Ashton is on her way back to Kroyden Hills to deal with her horrible mess of a mother. Her mom was in a car accident and is facing criminal charges due to the amount of drugs she had. Her flight gets delayed and she is forced to stay in the only available hotel room with Jameson Murphy, who she hates. They get a little drunk and share a hot night together. Ashton is in for a big shock when she gets to the hospital to see her mom and learns she has a 3 month old sister she never knew about and now she is her new guardian.
Ashton's life is in upheaval, but luckily her best friend let's her stay with him and his brother Jameson. Now, she is living with Jameson and trying to navigate becoming the new mother for her sweet sister.
Jameson completely steps up to provide support, while also trying to mend things between them. He has always been in love with Ashton and is finally ready to make up for their past. This man was so swoony and he was so good with her sister. I absolutely loved the conversation they had about their past and how Jameson lays his heart out to her. This man is EVERYTHING! Also, the way he responds to her accidental pregnancy was beautiful.
I appreciate the new group of girlfriends Ashton makes and how ride or die they immediately were for her. Bella is the best at writing found family. I was a little thrown off by the 3rd act suspense element that was thrown in, but still enjoyed it.
Thank you to Bella Matthews for providing the ARC.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Sweet Surrender is the 3rd book in the Love & Legacy series, and an absolute new favorite. Jameson Murphy is a new book boyfriend! He completely stole my heart and may be one of my top Bella heroes. However, Bella always give me amazing men that are guaranteed to be on my book boyfriend list.
Ashton is on her way back to Kroyden Hills to deal with her horrible mess of a mother. Her mom was in a car accident and is facing criminal charges due to the amount of drugs she had. Her flight gets delayed and she is forced to stay in the only available hotel room with Jameson Murphy, who she hates. They get a little drunk and share a hot night together. Ashton is in for a big shock when she gets to the hospital to see her mom and learns she has a 3 month old sister she never knew about and now she is her new guardian.
Ashton's life is in upheaval, but luckily her best friend let's her stay with him and his brother Jameson. Now, she is living with Jameson and trying to navigate becoming the new mother for her sweet sister.
Jameson completely steps up to provide support, while also trying to mend things between them. He has always been in love with Ashton and is finally ready to make up for their past. This man was so swoony and he was so good with her sister. I absolutely loved the conversation they had about their past and how Jameson lays his heart out to her. This man is EVERYTHING! Also, the way he responds to her accidental pregnancy was beautiful.
I appreciate the new group of girlfriends Ashton makes and how ride or die they immediately were for her. Bella is the best at writing found family. I was a little thrown off by the 3rd act suspense element that was thrown in, but still enjoyed it.
Thank you to Bella Matthews for providing the ARC.
February 15, 2026
#Review: *Sweet Surrender* - Bella Matthews - ARC [18+]
4.7/5✨
3/5🌶️
Did Ashton ever think that she would end up in the same bed as one of her enemies? Never! But there she was, because of a snow storm, she had no other choice but to stay in the same room with her enemy, Jameson 'Jamie' Murphy, having an awkward one bed situation. One thing led to another and they ended up sharing a super steamy one night stand together, but that didn't fix anything between them. That wasn't the worst thing that was happening to Ashton, because she would be soon surprised by more events, which will for sure change everything in her life.
Did you say enemies? Then I'm going to be captivated by the story! This one did not let me down, I truly enjoyed the incredible tension between Ashton and Jamie. They were constantly bickering, but you could clearly see that there was so much more beneath that facade, something which kept on piling up for such a long time and everything was like a ticking bomb, prepared to detonate at any time. All those plot twists were really captivating, especially those insane scenes that happened in the end of the story. I liked the fact that Jamie was such a sweetheart, even if his demeanor was screaming brutal and imposing.
Another amazing and super cute story by Bella! I adoored how addicted Jamie was to Ashton and how hard he fell for her. Their situation wasn't easy at all, but their love was stronger and that was so heartwarming.
Thank youuu sooo much, Bella and her wonderful team for providing me with this e-ARC!🩵 I adooore being part of this awesome content team💖.
✨Tropes
▫️Enemies To Lovers
▫️Accidental Pregnancy
▫️Single Guardian
▫️Best Friend's Brother
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Close Proximity
4.7/5✨
3/5🌶️
Did Ashton ever think that she would end up in the same bed as one of her enemies? Never! But there she was, because of a snow storm, she had no other choice but to stay in the same room with her enemy, Jameson 'Jamie' Murphy, having an awkward one bed situation. One thing led to another and they ended up sharing a super steamy one night stand together, but that didn't fix anything between them. That wasn't the worst thing that was happening to Ashton, because she would be soon surprised by more events, which will for sure change everything in her life.
Did you say enemies? Then I'm going to be captivated by the story! This one did not let me down, I truly enjoyed the incredible tension between Ashton and Jamie. They were constantly bickering, but you could clearly see that there was so much more beneath that facade, something which kept on piling up for such a long time and everything was like a ticking bomb, prepared to detonate at any time. All those plot twists were really captivating, especially those insane scenes that happened in the end of the story. I liked the fact that Jamie was such a sweetheart, even if his demeanor was screaming brutal and imposing.
Another amazing and super cute story by Bella! I adoored how addicted Jamie was to Ashton and how hard he fell for her. Their situation wasn't easy at all, but their love was stronger and that was so heartwarming.
Thank youuu sooo much, Bella and her wonderful team for providing me with this e-ARC!🩵 I adooore being part of this awesome content team💖.
✨Tropes
▫️Enemies To Lovers
▫️Accidental Pregnancy
▫️Single Guardian
▫️Best Friend's Brother
▫️Sports Romance
▫️Close Proximity
February 17, 2026
Once again, Bella has just truly captivated me with this story!
From the very beginning, I was instantly in love with the banter, the tension and chemistry between Ashton and Jamie. Their progression and the relationship itself unraveled so perfectly and so beautifully.
I loved how sassy and fierce Ashton was, but also seeing the vulnerable sides of her. She truly embodies herself and was so powerful throughout this story, even when she needed to break sometimes. I love her so much!
Jamie really just surprised me throughout this whole story. I knew I was going to love him, but I was not expecting to love him so much that he became one of my top Bella MMC’s. His loyalty, his devotion, the emotional maturity, and just every aspect of him truly was just perfection and I love him so much.
Watching is these two start out by dancing around each other and then finding themselves with each other and healing the broken parts as they navigate their past, this entire story was just so beautiful.
I absolutely loved all of the fun secrets, the nods to the OG’s, the fun, banter and connections to old characters, and the love and found family that Bella does such a perfect job of portraying in this universe.
There was definitely some twists and turns in this story that I was not expecting, and I was truly blown away by the stakes, and what it did to propel the story but also kept me so invested. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, Bella cranks it another notch, and truly just creates such a perfect story.
I will forever be Bella fan, her characters, her stories, and the beautiful messages and impactful and powerful themes. Keep me coming back for more, and I cannot wait to see what the rest of this series and the future holds.
From the very beginning, I was instantly in love with the banter, the tension and chemistry between Ashton and Jamie. Their progression and the relationship itself unraveled so perfectly and so beautifully.
I loved how sassy and fierce Ashton was, but also seeing the vulnerable sides of her. She truly embodies herself and was so powerful throughout this story, even when she needed to break sometimes. I love her so much!
Jamie really just surprised me throughout this whole story. I knew I was going to love him, but I was not expecting to love him so much that he became one of my top Bella MMC’s. His loyalty, his devotion, the emotional maturity, and just every aspect of him truly was just perfection and I love him so much.
Watching is these two start out by dancing around each other and then finding themselves with each other and healing the broken parts as they navigate their past, this entire story was just so beautiful.
I absolutely loved all of the fun secrets, the nods to the OG’s, the fun, banter and connections to old characters, and the love and found family that Bella does such a perfect job of portraying in this universe.
There was definitely some twists and turns in this story that I was not expecting, and I was truly blown away by the stakes, and what it did to propel the story but also kept me so invested. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, Bella cranks it another notch, and truly just creates such a perfect story.
I will forever be Bella fan, her characters, her stories, and the beautiful messages and impactful and powerful themes. Keep me coming back for more, and I cannot wait to see what the rest of this series and the future holds.
February 11, 2026
Sweet Surrender by Bella Matthews
📚Love & Legacy, Book 3
📖Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️
Adult • Sports Romance
📖323 Pages
🗓️February 12
💕pro-football MMC/ballet FMC
💕childhood friends to enemies to lovers
💕ONS to more
💕single guardian
💕close proximity
💕roommates to lovers
💕best friend’s brother
💕found family
📖 “You’re enough, Ashton. You always have been. I see it. Finn and Ryker see it. Kyrie sees it. And one day, you’re going to see it too.”
📖 “She might be your best friend, but she’s my f world.”
THIS BOOK aaaaahhhhh 😭🥹
I don’t even know what to do with myself right now.
I read Sweet Surrender in a day.
It was my whole focus and now I’m here not sure how to move on.
Ashton was one of those characters who brands you. She will leave her mark, you willing or not, and you quickly realize there’s a you before and a you after meeting her. Her strength, her sharp comebacks, her vulnerability. Bella Matthews wrote such a perfect FMC in this one.
Jamie broke my heart. He mended it right after. But the pain he still carried from his teenage years and the choice he made then - while, sure, probably the best if poorly executed - had me sobbing.
The loss of a family member is always hard. But losing someone who meant so much, who occupied so much, who was a constant... excuse me while I go cry a river over there 💔
Our Love & Legacy ladies really showed up, just as I knew they would. Love them to pieces.
{insert pic of me begging for a Finn book here}
📚Love & Legacy, Book 3
📖Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
♾️♾️♾️♾️♾️
Adult • Sports Romance
📖323 Pages
🗓️February 12
💕pro-football MMC/ballet FMC
💕childhood friends to enemies to lovers
💕ONS to more
💕single guardian
💕close proximity
💕roommates to lovers
💕best friend’s brother
💕found family
📖 “You’re enough, Ashton. You always have been. I see it. Finn and Ryker see it. Kyrie sees it. And one day, you’re going to see it too.”
📖 “She might be your best friend, but she’s my f world.”
THIS BOOK aaaaahhhhh 😭🥹
I don’t even know what to do with myself right now.
I read Sweet Surrender in a day.
It was my whole focus and now I’m here not sure how to move on.
Ashton was one of those characters who brands you. She will leave her mark, you willing or not, and you quickly realize there’s a you before and a you after meeting her. Her strength, her sharp comebacks, her vulnerability. Bella Matthews wrote such a perfect FMC in this one.
Jamie broke my heart. He mended it right after. But the pain he still carried from his teenage years and the choice he made then - while, sure, probably the best if poorly executed - had me sobbing.
The loss of a family member is always hard. But losing someone who meant so much, who occupied so much, who was a constant... excuse me while I go cry a river over there 💔
Our Love & Legacy ladies really showed up, just as I knew they would. Love them to pieces.
{insert pic of me begging for a Finn book here}
February 12, 2026
“Tell me what you’re scared of. Let me help you slay your dragons.”
⭐️ 4.25
I I went into this expecting the usual best friend’s brother, forbidden romance, accidental pregnancy storyline I’m so used to, but this book surprised me in the best way.
It’s messy, chaotic, and, toward the end, genuinely suspenseful, yet it never loses its heart.
I loved Ashton and Jamie’s story and the way it unfolds through their complicated past. Watching them navigate old wounds, lingering feelings, and all the chaos life throws at them—only to inevitably find their way back to each other—was so satisfying. I don't one think anyone can be as unlucky as Ashton, but she handles everything with so much resilience. She keeps pushing forward, faces every challenge head-on, and slowly learns to let people in instead of carrying everything on her own. The found family in this book is truly special—she’s surrounded by people who love her fiercely and show up when it matters most.
And Jamie? I’m a sucker for a man who steps up, and he absolutely delivered. The way he loves and cares for Ashton and baby Kyrie melted my heart. Protective, devoted, and steady when it counts, he was everything I wanted him to be.
The plot was definitely plotting because I did not see a couple of those twists coming. It kept me hooked and fully entertained until the very end.
Also… I have a feeling this isn’t the last we’ll see of Finn and Delaney, and I’m very intrigued.
Thank you to Valentine PR for the advanced e-copy!
⭐️ 4.25
I I went into this expecting the usual best friend’s brother, forbidden romance, accidental pregnancy storyline I’m so used to, but this book surprised me in the best way.
It’s messy, chaotic, and, toward the end, genuinely suspenseful, yet it never loses its heart.
I loved Ashton and Jamie’s story and the way it unfolds through their complicated past. Watching them navigate old wounds, lingering feelings, and all the chaos life throws at them—only to inevitably find their way back to each other—was so satisfying. I don't one think anyone can be as unlucky as Ashton, but she handles everything with so much resilience. She keeps pushing forward, faces every challenge head-on, and slowly learns to let people in instead of carrying everything on her own. The found family in this book is truly special—she’s surrounded by people who love her fiercely and show up when it matters most.
And Jamie? I’m a sucker for a man who steps up, and he absolutely delivered. The way he loves and cares for Ashton and baby Kyrie melted my heart. Protective, devoted, and steady when it counts, he was everything I wanted him to be.
The plot was definitely plotting because I did not see a couple of those twists coming. It kept me hooked and fully entertained until the very end.
Also… I have a feeling this isn’t the last we’ll see of Finn and Delaney, and I’m very intrigued.
Thank you to Valentine PR for the advanced e-copy!
February 18, 2026
Sweet Surrender
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
🌶️🌶️ 2/5 Spice
I absolutely devoured Sweet Surrender by Bella Matthews. Jamie and Ashton were such a perfect match, and the tragedy surrounding them was genuinely heartbreaking. Jamie’s effort to make up for breaking Ashton’s heart was beautifully written, and watching the two of them heal, both individually and together, was one of the best parts of the story.
There’s also a plot twist involving Ashton that completely caught me off guard. Her family is complicated in every possible way, and while it added depth to her character, I did finish the book wishing for a bit more closure with her parents. That part of the story felt slightly unresolved for me.
Even so, I loved watching Jamie and Ashton grow, both as people and as a couple. Their banter was fun, the humor landed, and I caught myself laughing several times. While this isn’t a particularly spicy book, the scenes we do get are great, I just found myself wanting a little more of that and a little more time with them as a couple because their dynamic is so engaging.
It’s a quick, emotional, and very satisfying read. And in true Bella Matthews fashion, everything is wrapped up neatly in the end. I’m really hoping we get more glimpses of this couple in future books. I’m always a fan of epic epilogues!
If you’re looking for a sweet romance with strong character growth, a solid storyline, great banter, and plenty of humor, definitely pick this one up. I loved every minute.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
🌶️🌶️ 2/5 Spice
I absolutely devoured Sweet Surrender by Bella Matthews. Jamie and Ashton were such a perfect match, and the tragedy surrounding them was genuinely heartbreaking. Jamie’s effort to make up for breaking Ashton’s heart was beautifully written, and watching the two of them heal, both individually and together, was one of the best parts of the story.
There’s also a plot twist involving Ashton that completely caught me off guard. Her family is complicated in every possible way, and while it added depth to her character, I did finish the book wishing for a bit more closure with her parents. That part of the story felt slightly unresolved for me.
Even so, I loved watching Jamie and Ashton grow, both as people and as a couple. Their banter was fun, the humor landed, and I caught myself laughing several times. While this isn’t a particularly spicy book, the scenes we do get are great, I just found myself wanting a little more of that and a little more time with them as a couple because their dynamic is so engaging.
It’s a quick, emotional, and very satisfying read. And in true Bella Matthews fashion, everything is wrapped up neatly in the end. I’m really hoping we get more glimpses of this couple in future books. I’m always a fan of epic epilogues!
If you’re looking for a sweet romance with strong character growth, a solid storyline, great banter, and plenty of humor, definitely pick this one up. I loved every minute.
February 10, 2026
✨ARC REVIEW✨ 5⭐️Oh the ways that I loved this book!! Ashton is headed back to Kroydon Hills to clean up her mom’s mess…again. She didn’t expect to run into her best friend’s brother older brother and be snowed on with him for a night. One reckless night. When she finally makes it to Kroydon Hills and discovers she has a three month old baby sister she didn’t know about she knows her life is about to change. Little did she know it already did the night before. She ends up moving in with her best friend and his brother. Jameson has loved Ashton forever but the worst night of their families lives kept him from her. All these years later, after the one incredible night together, she’s in his house and he’s not ready to give up so easily this time.
Oh man Jamie…I think I found one of my new all time favorite MMCs! This story had it all and I was not prepared for how much I would love it! I could not put this one down. Ashton has had so much thrown at her in her life and the way she handled everything with grace. She just stepped in for her sister without hesitation. She takes it all in stride and truly finds herself through all of it. Just when she thinks she’s seen it all the hits keep coming…but Jamie is her rock and seeing the way they handle everything just made me so happy!! I just loved this one so much!!
Tropes:
✨Sports Romance
✨Accidental Pregnancy
✨Single Guardian
✨Enemies to Lovers
✨Best Friend’s Brother
Oh man Jamie…I think I found one of my new all time favorite MMCs! This story had it all and I was not prepared for how much I would love it! I could not put this one down. Ashton has had so much thrown at her in her life and the way she handled everything with grace. She just stepped in for her sister without hesitation. She takes it all in stride and truly finds herself through all of it. Just when she thinks she’s seen it all the hits keep coming…but Jamie is her rock and seeing the way they handle everything just made me so happy!! I just loved this one so much!!
Tropes:
✨Sports Romance
✨Accidental Pregnancy
✨Single Guardian
✨Enemies to Lovers
✨Best Friend’s Brother
February 12, 2026
Perfection - literally perfect this book was. I love love love this book universe and each time Bella gives us a book from it, it is always utterly amazing and hooking and spicy!
Our book follows Jamie a pro football player and his brother's best friend Ashton whom he has apparently loved ever since they were young. Ashton returns to town after her mother is arrested and her lawyer practically demands that she return to town and then dumps a very young baby on her who is apparently her baby sister whom she had no idea existed at all.
In this book, we get to see Ashton learn the ropes of looking after a child while in the house with 3 men, one being her best friend Finn and then the owner of the house Jamie who just for context hooked up with Ashton when their flight to the city got cancelled due to weather. And well we know how that ends up - a surprise pregnancy on top of having a very young baby dropped onto Ashton as well...
I honestly loved reading this book and got hooked on the plot line so fast. There were definitely quite a lot that I did not predict would happen but I feel it really made the plot and the book as good as it was!! You definitely don't need to read the other books in the current series of series before where you see the parents of all our main characters in this universe, but I do highly recommend it!
Our book follows Jamie a pro football player and his brother's best friend Ashton whom he has apparently loved ever since they were young. Ashton returns to town after her mother is arrested and her lawyer practically demands that she return to town and then dumps a very young baby on her who is apparently her baby sister whom she had no idea existed at all.
In this book, we get to see Ashton learn the ropes of looking after a child while in the house with 3 men, one being her best friend Finn and then the owner of the house Jamie who just for context hooked up with Ashton when their flight to the city got cancelled due to weather. And well we know how that ends up - a surprise pregnancy on top of having a very young baby dropped onto Ashton as well...
I honestly loved reading this book and got hooked on the plot line so fast. There were definitely quite a lot that I did not predict would happen but I feel it really made the plot and the book as good as it was!! You definitely don't need to read the other books in the current series of series before where you see the parents of all our main characters in this universe, but I do highly recommend it!
February 12, 2026
Wow, let’s talk about an emotional rollercoaster. Bella decided to turn on the waterworks with this one. Reading these series in Kroydon Hills you feel like you are part of it and you connect with these characters on a deeper level.
Ashton is brought back to Kroydon hills after she receives a call about her mother. On the way there she gets stranded with her brother’s best friend, Jamie. Things get heated and then they get spicy when they spend the night together.
Ashton has not had the easiest life and now she has a huge bomb dropped on her. But her best friend Finn invites her to live with him and the man she just spent a night with. Jamie is so sweet and a baby whisper. He is always there helping and wants to help Ashton but she keeps pushing him away. I loved how he didn’t give up, he was determined.
Feelings grew, sparks flew and these two finally let one another in. It’s a rough road, lots of tears were shed. I found myself gasping and holding my breath turning the pages waiting to see what was happening next. It was raw, real, deep, emotional, and written so beautifully. Bella knows how to grab you by the heart and she doesn’t let go.
Ashton is brought back to Kroydon hills after she receives a call about her mother. On the way there she gets stranded with her brother’s best friend, Jamie. Things get heated and then they get spicy when they spend the night together.
Ashton has not had the easiest life and now she has a huge bomb dropped on her. But her best friend Finn invites her to live with him and the man she just spent a night with. Jamie is so sweet and a baby whisper. He is always there helping and wants to help Ashton but she keeps pushing him away. I loved how he didn’t give up, he was determined.
Feelings grew, sparks flew and these two finally let one another in. It’s a rough road, lots of tears were shed. I found myself gasping and holding my breath turning the pages waiting to see what was happening next. It was raw, real, deep, emotional, and written so beautifully. Bella knows how to grab you by the heart and she doesn’t let go.
February 13, 2026
Sweet Surrender is by far my favorite Bella book! I’m the biggest sucker for an accidental pregnancy trope with a little side of enemies to lovers. Gah! It’s the perfect combo!! I’m over here in LaLa land- all smiles, babies galore, Jamie Murphy and his perfect self-then Bella hits us with this twist that just smacked me right in the face. I wasn’t expecting anything to side track my mind like that…. But I loved it. She gave us a little of everything in this- romance, spice, amazing characters, laughs, and some thrills! 🫣
Jamie Murphy and Ashton Carmichael have a complicated and hurtful past. After a tragic situation, they went from young and secretly in love with each other, to basically strangers and hating one another. But a little run-in years later at the airport, being snowed in together, and lotssss of champagne…changes absolutely everything for them.
Ashton’s life and career gets put on hold when she finds out she has a baby sister who needs a guardian, a new living arrangement, and a positive pregnancy test. Is everything just falling apart in her life, or is it actually coming together the way it should?
This is an amazing read and Jamie Murphy is perfection!
Jamie Murphy and Ashton Carmichael have a complicated and hurtful past. After a tragic situation, they went from young and secretly in love with each other, to basically strangers and hating one another. But a little run-in years later at the airport, being snowed in together, and lotssss of champagne…changes absolutely everything for them.
Ashton’s life and career gets put on hold when she finds out she has a baby sister who needs a guardian, a new living arrangement, and a positive pregnancy test. Is everything just falling apart in her life, or is it actually coming together the way it should?
This is an amazing read and Jamie Murphy is perfection!
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