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Cedar Shores #1
Safe Haven
She’s the queen of heartbreak.
He’s the one who got away.
Bailey Jones built a career writing love stories about brooding heroes. But in real life she’s never had her own happily ever after.
Not with him.
Rhett Monroe was her first love. The boy who used to toss her into the lake every summer — and the man who walked away without looking back.
Now he’s back — ex–Navy SEAL turned security specialist. Focused. Intense. And he’s not here for the memories.
Because someone is watching Bailey.
Sending messages that feel a little too personal. Too obsessed.
And Rhett is not letting her out of his sight.
He takes her to the one place a stalker won’t find her — Cedar Shores. But for Bailey, being stuck in close quarters with the man she never stopped wanting is far from simple. Especially when Rhett watches her like she’s something worth guarding. Like she’s his.
The tension that used to simmer between them now crackles. Every argument is charged with desire. Every touch lingers. And every heated look dares her to remember how good they could be.
She’s spent her career writing men who would burn the world down for the woman they love.
Turns out . . . she grew up with one.
Welcome to Cedar Shores — where summer never really ends . . . and neither does first love.
He’s the one who got away.
Bailey Jones built a career writing love stories about brooding heroes. But in real life she’s never had her own happily ever after.
Not with him.
Rhett Monroe was her first love. The boy who used to toss her into the lake every summer — and the man who walked away without looking back.
Now he’s back — ex–Navy SEAL turned security specialist. Focused. Intense. And he’s not here for the memories.
Because someone is watching Bailey.
Sending messages that feel a little too personal. Too obsessed.
And Rhett is not letting her out of his sight.
He takes her to the one place a stalker won’t find her — Cedar Shores. But for Bailey, being stuck in close quarters with the man she never stopped wanting is far from simple. Especially when Rhett watches her like she’s something worth guarding. Like she’s his.
The tension that used to simmer between them now crackles. Every argument is charged with desire. Every touch lingers. And every heated look dares her to remember how good they could be.
She’s spent her career writing men who would burn the world down for the woman they love.
Turns out . . . she grew up with one.
Welcome to Cedar Shores — where summer never really ends . . . and neither does first love.
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
April 24, 2026
3.7 Stars
One Liner: Sweet
Bailey Jones became a popular writer, writing love stories about fictional characters and not finding her own. Rhett Monroe was her first love. Years ago, he walked away, breaking her heart. Now, an ex-SEAL turned security specialist, he is back.
With someone watching Biley and sending her messages that feel too obsessive, Rhett takes her back to Cedar Shores to keep her safe. Will this be their second chance, too?
The story comes in Bailey and Rhett’s first-person POVs.
My Thoughts
A romance author being stalked by an obsessive fan and her childhood friend (and best friend’s brother) stepping in to protect her is a cool premise.
I quite liked the beginning. Not just the MCs, but the side characters (the siblings who will get their own books) are easy to like. They are sweet and funny. Annoying each other but full of love.
While the glimpses into the past helped me understand their dynamics better, the scenes tend to appear at random without proper marking. Maybe it would have been better if they were separate chapters?
The dual POV worked well initially, but at some point, their voices merged. Despite the clear mention, I lost track of whose POV it was at times. This was an issue only in the latter part of the second half. Until then, it wasn’t that off.
The obsessed fan was decent. I expected it to be a bit more dramatic, but what happens is scary as it escalates. I like how the FMC’s reactions were written. Her fear, the worry, the overthinking, it feels genuine. (Also, imagine this. Women can’t even write romance books without some unhinged dude thinking she is sending him coded messages, and all this when the primary and majority reader market is women.)
While they took a long time to get to the actual confession part, once it did, it felt like the story had to make up for the lack of explicit spice until then and dumped it back-to-back. My tolerance is high, but I did skip it a little this time.
The personal growth part needed a little more depth, methinks, especially given the MMC's profession. But the scenes we get are good.
I love the setting. It is beautiful and the kind of place one would want to stay for a long time.
There is a sweet epilogue, which I liked a lot. We also have a hint for the next book, and I’d be really disappointed if they are not a couple. Such chemistry!
To summarize, Safe Haven is an enjoyable read with a slowburn friends-to-lovers romance and a stalker threat looming over them. I’m excited for the next book.
My thanks to Zooloo’s Book Tours and Joffee Books for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
One Liner: Sweet
Bailey Jones became a popular writer, writing love stories about fictional characters and not finding her own. Rhett Monroe was her first love. Years ago, he walked away, breaking her heart. Now, an ex-SEAL turned security specialist, he is back.
With someone watching Biley and sending her messages that feel too obsessive, Rhett takes her back to Cedar Shores to keep her safe. Will this be their second chance, too?
The story comes in Bailey and Rhett’s first-person POVs.
My Thoughts
A romance author being stalked by an obsessive fan and her childhood friend (and best friend’s brother) stepping in to protect her is a cool premise.
I quite liked the beginning. Not just the MCs, but the side characters (the siblings who will get their own books) are easy to like. They are sweet and funny. Annoying each other but full of love.
While the glimpses into the past helped me understand their dynamics better, the scenes tend to appear at random without proper marking. Maybe it would have been better if they were separate chapters?
The dual POV worked well initially, but at some point, their voices merged. Despite the clear mention, I lost track of whose POV it was at times. This was an issue only in the latter part of the second half. Until then, it wasn’t that off.
The obsessed fan was decent. I expected it to be a bit more dramatic, but what happens is scary as it escalates. I like how the FMC’s reactions were written. Her fear, the worry, the overthinking, it feels genuine. (Also, imagine this. Women can’t even write romance books without some unhinged dude thinking she is sending him coded messages, and all this when the primary and majority reader market is women.)
While they took a long time to get to the actual confession part, once it did, it felt like the story had to make up for the lack of explicit spice until then and dumped it back-to-back. My tolerance is high, but I did skip it a little this time.
The personal growth part needed a little more depth, methinks, especially given the MMC's profession. But the scenes we get are good.
I love the setting. It is beautiful and the kind of place one would want to stay for a long time.
There is a sweet epilogue, which I liked a lot. We also have a hint for the next book, and I’d be really disappointed if they are not a couple. Such chemistry!
To summarize, Safe Haven is an enjoyable read with a slowburn friends-to-lovers romance and a stalker threat looming over them. I’m excited for the next book.
My thanks to Zooloo’s Book Tours and Joffee Books for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
April 23, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thank you Lily and Page and Vine for this advance reader copy!
This was a great first dip into romantic suspense! I loved seeing the growth of these characters through the high stakes that were handed to them. We meet Bailey, author, who is releasing her 7th book and finding out she has an obsessed fan who has started stalking her and threatening her. In comes Rhett, ex navy seal with a traumatic past, to keep her safe. Rhett and Bailey have a past and were childhood friends until Rhett left and never came back, until now. Seeing these two characters come together was refreshing. The emotional connection and understanding they had was great. It definitely kept me reading to find out what happened with everything. If you enjoy romantic suspense, childhood friends to lovers, broody MMC/ex navy seal, and forced proximity then I definitely recommend this one.
Thank you Lily and Page and Vine for this advance reader copy!
This was a great first dip into romantic suspense! I loved seeing the growth of these characters through the high stakes that were handed to them. We meet Bailey, author, who is releasing her 7th book and finding out she has an obsessed fan who has started stalking her and threatening her. In comes Rhett, ex navy seal with a traumatic past, to keep her safe. Rhett and Bailey have a past and were childhood friends until Rhett left and never came back, until now. Seeing these two characters come together was refreshing. The emotional connection and understanding they had was great. It definitely kept me reading to find out what happened with everything. If you enjoy romantic suspense, childhood friends to lovers, broody MMC/ex navy seal, and forced proximity then I definitely recommend this one.
April 23, 2026
The sweetest book! I am a big fan of Lily Parker's writing; her books are so comfortable and easy to read, they are like a warm hug. Safe Haven has all the best tropes: one bed, bodyguard, slow burn, close proximity, second chance. If you are looking for a cute, quick romance read, I highly recommend Safe Haven. There is some spice, but it is very minimal.
Thank you to the publisher for a copy for review consideration via NetGalley.
Thank you to the publisher for a copy for review consideration via NetGalley.
April 21, 2026
I don’t even know what to say about this book except that the nostalgic feeling literally just makes it feel like home.
An author with a stalker, a best friends brother ex navy seal who hasn’t visited in years that comes back to be her protector form said stalker (that she doesn’t even know about), and a flee back to Cedar Shores for safety - a place they lived their best childhood dreams. The summers spent at Cedar Shores between two sets of boy girl siblings who are all around family best friends just brought me back to TSITP but in its own unique way. Lily’s words in this novel were so beautiful..she painted a picture not just to give us insight to the current plot, but it’s really bring us back to their childhood and where their stories all began. She described the feelings so well that us millennials feel so deeply, I felt like I was reliving my own childhood through their memories.
I adore every single trope in this book. I love author characters, bad ass navy seal with a troubled past, childhood friends to lovers, and a fierce need to protect her despite neither one ever coping with their feelings. This story was done SO well, with a good mix of suspense with the stalker but really just a romance to yearn for. I am crossing my fingers and toes that we are set up to get a book to Axel and Hollis because their story is just begging to be told!
Thank you so much Lily Parker and ChocolitUk for the early copy (both digital and physical), I truly adored this one so much.
An author with a stalker, a best friends brother ex navy seal who hasn’t visited in years that comes back to be her protector form said stalker (that she doesn’t even know about), and a flee back to Cedar Shores for safety - a place they lived their best childhood dreams. The summers spent at Cedar Shores between two sets of boy girl siblings who are all around family best friends just brought me back to TSITP but in its own unique way. Lily’s words in this novel were so beautiful..she painted a picture not just to give us insight to the current plot, but it’s really bring us back to their childhood and where their stories all began. She described the feelings so well that us millennials feel so deeply, I felt like I was reliving my own childhood through their memories.
I adore every single trope in this book. I love author characters, bad ass navy seal with a troubled past, childhood friends to lovers, and a fierce need to protect her despite neither one ever coping with their feelings. This story was done SO well, with a good mix of suspense with the stalker but really just a romance to yearn for. I am crossing my fingers and toes that we are set up to get a book to Axel and Hollis because their story is just begging to be told!
Thank you so much Lily Parker and ChocolitUk for the early copy (both digital and physical), I truly adored this one so much.
April 25, 2026
I received an ARC of this book from the author.
I was transfixed by this book the entire time. Literally hooked from the prologue. Lily transported me right into the scene of the book. I could feel the lifetime bond between Rhett and Bailey. I loved that Bailey was an author in this book. While reading about the times the siblings all had at Cedar Shores, I felt like I was apart of them. The suspense of the book kept me wondering how it would turn out until the truth was out. I cannot wait for the next book to come out!
I was transfixed by this book the entire time. Literally hooked from the prologue. Lily transported me right into the scene of the book. I could feel the lifetime bond between Rhett and Bailey. I loved that Bailey was an author in this book. While reading about the times the siblings all had at Cedar Shores, I felt like I was apart of them. The suspense of the book kept me wondering how it would turn out until the truth was out. I cannot wait for the next book to come out!
April 15, 2026
“It was all there in her eyes… acceptance zero blame, as if what made my skin mangled was just another piece of who I am instead of everything that I have left”
I truly didn’t expect to have a mystery wrapped up in a romance when I started this book! It has surprise me in the best way. Long time friends, separated by life goals, trauma, and success. Brought together by a threat to one of them that only the other could protect her from.
Praise God for no miscommunication trope 🙌🏻
This book feels real with flawed characters who have been through some sh**. But somehow life didn’t allow any other path to get to each other except the slightly complex one. Proving that overcoming the hard stuff is what makes the great things even more worth the journey.
Read as an ARC via NetGalley
I truly didn’t expect to have a mystery wrapped up in a romance when I started this book! It has surprise me in the best way. Long time friends, separated by life goals, trauma, and success. Brought together by a threat to one of them that only the other could protect her from.
Praise God for no miscommunication trope 🙌🏻
This book feels real with flawed characters who have been through some sh**. But somehow life didn’t allow any other path to get to each other except the slightly complex one. Proving that overcoming the hard stuff is what makes the great things even more worth the journey.
Read as an ARC via NetGalley
April 26, 2026
He ignores her for a decade until she’s being stalked and his sister begs him to run her security. Him ignoring her is completely justified… obviously he’s actually really into her. She sits around and pines after him and writes fiction about their fake love story, hoping one day it will come true. Spoiler alert! It does!!!!!
I’m changing it from one star to two stars because I think I was more annoyed than necessary after I finished. I kinda liked the side characters and the writing was fine. It was just Rhett and Bailey’s relationship that I didn’t like.
I’m changing it from one star to two stars because I think I was more annoyed than necessary after I finished. I kinda liked the side characters and the writing was fine. It was just Rhett and Bailey’s relationship that I didn’t like.
May 28, 2026
Gut rating: ⭐⭐⭐
CAWPILE rating: TBD
Spice: Open door
ARC publication date: April 23rd 2026
Tropes: Best-friend's-brother romance, childhood friends romance, romance author FMC, scarred tattooed ex-Navy SEAL MMC, only one bed, dark secrets, betrayal, emotional baggage, dual POV
Quote: I could forget my own name when our eyes meet, like time is doubling back, giving us just one extra second to take each other in.
My synopsis
Twelve years ago, 17yo Bailey was completely heartbroken when her childhood friend (and secret crush) 18yo Rhett Monroe walked away from what they had to become a Navy SEAL. Now, Bailey has channeled that lingering ache into a successful career as a romance author dubbed "the Queen of Heartache". In reality, Bailey's love life is all fiction as she's still hung up on Rhett. The man who's declined every book launch party invitation until this one. The book she wrote about him.
After losing a friend and nearly his own life in the Navy SEALs, Rhett now runs a private security firm and is determined to keep his happy memories from before the SEALs separate from the broken man he's become. But when his sister (Bailey's publicist) secretly calls him about a series of threatening fan mail she's found addressed to Bailey, his instincts have him running to protect her. Hiding away at the lake where their friendship fell apart, Bailey and Rhett are forced to confront their feelings before the unresolved tension explodes.
My review
A spicy romance brimming with memories and second chances. Unfortunately, I didn't really connect with the story because things felt a little rushed and forced
What I liked
- The setup was really fun, with a stalker pushing together the romance author and the man she writes about and giving them the chance to solve their unresolved issues and sexual tension.
- Having Bailey's stalker use and act out quotes from her books gave such a creepy edge to the threats. It was well thought out how the trauma from it will impact Bailey's career, with her now fearful of writing anything a crazed fan could use against her.
- The book was filled with flashbacks and memories that intertwined really well with the story and helped us understand theie childhood friendship.
What I didn't like
- Wth an almost non-existent friendship, it didn't feel natural having Bailey and Rhett immediately fall back into comfortable closeness, especially with the hurt and betrayal from older and recent issues.
- Rhett's protectiveness over Bailey also didn't really work for me because they'd barely seen each other in the last 12 years.
- The spice was good, but the romance wasn't the slow reintroduction of feelings and building trust again that the characters needed after everything that has happened between them.
With thanks to the Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Trigger warnings: Stalking, sexual content, abandonment, PTSD, death, war, blood, injury detail, panic attack, alcohol, grief
CAWPILE rating: TBD
Spice: Open door
ARC publication date: April 23rd 2026
Tropes: Best-friend's-brother romance, childhood friends romance, romance author FMC, scarred tattooed ex-Navy SEAL MMC, only one bed, dark secrets, betrayal, emotional baggage, dual POV
Quote: I could forget my own name when our eyes meet, like time is doubling back, giving us just one extra second to take each other in.
My synopsis
Twelve years ago, 17yo Bailey was completely heartbroken when her childhood friend (and secret crush) 18yo Rhett Monroe walked away from what they had to become a Navy SEAL. Now, Bailey has channeled that lingering ache into a successful career as a romance author dubbed "the Queen of Heartache". In reality, Bailey's love life is all fiction as she's still hung up on Rhett. The man who's declined every book launch party invitation until this one. The book she wrote about him.
After losing a friend and nearly his own life in the Navy SEALs, Rhett now runs a private security firm and is determined to keep his happy memories from before the SEALs separate from the broken man he's become. But when his sister (Bailey's publicist) secretly calls him about a series of threatening fan mail she's found addressed to Bailey, his instincts have him running to protect her. Hiding away at the lake where their friendship fell apart, Bailey and Rhett are forced to confront their feelings before the unresolved tension explodes.
My review
A spicy romance brimming with memories and second chances. Unfortunately, I didn't really connect with the story because things felt a little rushed and forced
What I liked
- The setup was really fun, with a stalker pushing together the romance author and the man she writes about and giving them the chance to solve their unresolved issues and sexual tension.
- Having Bailey's stalker use and act out quotes from her books gave such a creepy edge to the threats. It was well thought out how the trauma from it will impact Bailey's career, with her now fearful of writing anything a crazed fan could use against her.
- The book was filled with flashbacks and memories that intertwined really well with the story and helped us understand theie childhood friendship.
What I didn't like
- Wth an almost non-existent friendship, it didn't feel natural having Bailey and Rhett immediately fall back into comfortable closeness, especially with the hurt and betrayal from older and recent issues.
- Rhett's protectiveness over Bailey also didn't really work for me because they'd barely seen each other in the last 12 years.
- The spice was good, but the romance wasn't the slow reintroduction of feelings and building trust again that the characters needed after everything that has happened between them.
With thanks to the Publishers and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Trigger warnings: Stalking, sexual content, abandonment, PTSD, death, war, blood, injury detail, panic attack, alcohol, grief
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3 ⭐️
Thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC of Safe Haven in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
I was really drawn to the premise of this story. It has so many appealing tropes that I love, plenty of angst, best friend’s brother and romantic suspense. I also really liked the sound of the FMC being a famous author, and her best friend’s brother stepping in as the only one being able to protect her.
However, I found the pacing quite slow, and unfortunately I struggled to fully connect with either of the main characters. There is clearly a deep history between them, with years of shared experiences and underlying tension, but I felt as though much of their story was told rather than shown. While their past plays an important role, the way it was woven into the narrative sometimes pulled me out of the present moment rather than immersing me further. I love a slow burn romance, but in this case I felt like I was waiting quite a long time for the emotional tension to truly build between Bailey and Rhett. For me, it didn’t really reach its peak until well into the second half of the book, which made parts of the earlier story feel a little stagnant.
The romantic suspense element was interesting in concept, particularly the storyline surrounding Bailey’s stalker. While I remained curious about how it would unfold, I didn’t quite feel the level of tension or urgency that I normally get when reading a romantic suspense.
Overall, this had a lot of elements that I’d usually love, and I’m in no way saying that this was a bad read; I just think certain components didn’t quite land for me, and I was expecting a little more.
I am so very intrigued by Hollis and Axel, and their tension, brief hook up. I would be very interested in reading their story.
Thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC of Safe Haven in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
I was really drawn to the premise of this story. It has so many appealing tropes that I love, plenty of angst, best friend’s brother and romantic suspense. I also really liked the sound of the FMC being a famous author, and her best friend’s brother stepping in as the only one being able to protect her.
However, I found the pacing quite slow, and unfortunately I struggled to fully connect with either of the main characters. There is clearly a deep history between them, with years of shared experiences and underlying tension, but I felt as though much of their story was told rather than shown. While their past plays an important role, the way it was woven into the narrative sometimes pulled me out of the present moment rather than immersing me further. I love a slow burn romance, but in this case I felt like I was waiting quite a long time for the emotional tension to truly build between Bailey and Rhett. For me, it didn’t really reach its peak until well into the second half of the book, which made parts of the earlier story feel a little stagnant.
The romantic suspense element was interesting in concept, particularly the storyline surrounding Bailey’s stalker. While I remained curious about how it would unfold, I didn’t quite feel the level of tension or urgency that I normally get when reading a romantic suspense.
Overall, this had a lot of elements that I’d usually love, and I’m in no way saying that this was a bad read; I just think certain components didn’t quite land for me, and I was expecting a little more.
I am so very intrigued by Hollis and Axel, and their tension, brief hook up. I would be very interested in reading their story.
April 26, 2026
Happy release week Safe Haven!!
I received an ARC of this and it was my first of Lily Parker, however, after this story I will definitely be endeavouring in more of her previously published novels.
The storyline follows a highly-respected author Bailey Jones and former Navy Seal Rhett Monroe who is brought in to run security for her event following the news of a stalker.
There is one complication in this story… Rhett Monroe isn’t your average security guy, he’s actually Bailey’s best-friend’s brother who she hasn’t seen since they were teenagers and the guy she secretly fantasised about her entire childhood.
Lily Parker wrote this beautifully. I was gripped from chapter one, and the storyline had me feeling like i’ve known these characters for longer than a few pages. You instantly fall in love with Bailey, Rhett and their families.
If you enjoy a small-town romance, with a best friend’s brother trope, and a friends to lovers dynamic… this book is definitely for you!
This is the first instalment in the Cedar Shores series and I can’t wait to see what follows.
Some of Lily Parker’s brilliant writing can be seen through these quotes:
“One by one, each star is claimed into a constellation the second they appear, as stories and illustrations subtly fill the sky. Some of them I know, and some I never will. Too many to be told over just one lifetime. But each time I’m here, I think of how every human that’s ever lived has marveled at this exact view. And how we each get one nanosecond here on our own piece of the sky to write a little story of our own.”
“It might not make any sense, but I think I needed that safe haven I’d created in my mind to stay exactly how it was — using the memories I’d stored up as an escape. I couldn’t risk changing anything I remembered about you or this place because I used the memories as a life raft.”
Thank you Netgalley and Joffe Books for providing me this ARC.
I received an ARC of this and it was my first of Lily Parker, however, after this story I will definitely be endeavouring in more of her previously published novels.
The storyline follows a highly-respected author Bailey Jones and former Navy Seal Rhett Monroe who is brought in to run security for her event following the news of a stalker.
There is one complication in this story… Rhett Monroe isn’t your average security guy, he’s actually Bailey’s best-friend’s brother who she hasn’t seen since they were teenagers and the guy she secretly fantasised about her entire childhood.
Lily Parker wrote this beautifully. I was gripped from chapter one, and the storyline had me feeling like i’ve known these characters for longer than a few pages. You instantly fall in love with Bailey, Rhett and their families.
If you enjoy a small-town romance, with a best friend’s brother trope, and a friends to lovers dynamic… this book is definitely for you!
This is the first instalment in the Cedar Shores series and I can’t wait to see what follows.
Some of Lily Parker’s brilliant writing can be seen through these quotes:
“One by one, each star is claimed into a constellation the second they appear, as stories and illustrations subtly fill the sky. Some of them I know, and some I never will. Too many to be told over just one lifetime. But each time I’m here, I think of how every human that’s ever lived has marveled at this exact view. And how we each get one nanosecond here on our own piece of the sky to write a little story of our own.”
“It might not make any sense, but I think I needed that safe haven I’d created in my mind to stay exactly how it was — using the memories I’d stored up as an escape. I couldn’t risk changing anything I remembered about you or this place because I used the memories as a life raft.”
Thank you Netgalley and Joffe Books for providing me this ARC.
April 19, 2026
I picked up Safe Haven by Lily Parker because the cover and title were giving me rugged, outdoorsy vibes, and it absolutely delivered on that front. I’m always going to gravitate toward a more grounded and protective MMC over a polished, swanky billionaire type, for example, so Rhett was right up my street.
Going in, I was also hoping for a touch of romantic suspense from the blurb, and the stalker element definitely added that extra layer of tension without ever overshadowing the romance itself.
What really made this story work for me was the emotional depth built through Rhett and Bailey’s shared history. Because they grew up spending summers together at neighbouring lakeside cabins and secretly harboured feelings for each other all along, the connection between them felt immediate and authentic, even though the present-day timeline only spans a short period. There’s a strong sense of longing and “what if” woven throughout, especially with Rhett believing he’s too changed by his past to fit into Bailey’s life anymore. That emotional push and pull, combined with the forced proximity created by the stalker situation, gave the story a lot of heart and kept me invested.
I also loved how the story eventually circles back to the lakeside setting, which is rich with shared memories and really amplifies the nostalgia and emotional stakes. The romance itself is a slow burn, with the payoff coming later in the book, but it felt earned, and the spice was well balanced without taking over the story.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read with a strong emotional core, a touch of suspense, and clear setup for future books in the series. I’d definitely be interested in continuing with the next instalments.
My rating - 4 stars ✨
Going in, I was also hoping for a touch of romantic suspense from the blurb, and the stalker element definitely added that extra layer of tension without ever overshadowing the romance itself.
What really made this story work for me was the emotional depth built through Rhett and Bailey’s shared history. Because they grew up spending summers together at neighbouring lakeside cabins and secretly harboured feelings for each other all along, the connection between them felt immediate and authentic, even though the present-day timeline only spans a short period. There’s a strong sense of longing and “what if” woven throughout, especially with Rhett believing he’s too changed by his past to fit into Bailey’s life anymore. That emotional push and pull, combined with the forced proximity created by the stalker situation, gave the story a lot of heart and kept me invested.
I also loved how the story eventually circles back to the lakeside setting, which is rich with shared memories and really amplifies the nostalgia and emotional stakes. The romance itself is a slow burn, with the payoff coming later in the book, but it felt earned, and the spice was well balanced without taking over the story.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read with a strong emotional core, a touch of suspense, and clear setup for future books in the series. I’d definitely be interested in continuing with the next instalments.
My rating - 4 stars ✨
April 23, 2026
You pick up a small town romance… and get a slow burn + suspense combo you didn’t expect 👀✨
The story follows Bailey as she returns to Cedar Shores and is forced to face both her past and a present danger. Her reunion with Rhett brings a second chance romance that slowly builds alongside a thread of suspense.
The story explores healing, trust and what it truly means to feel safe. It shows how emotional security matters just as much as physical protection.
What I Loved:
What truly resonated was the palpable chemistry and emotional depth between the protagonists, Bailey and Rhett. The slow burn dynamic felt authentic rather than contrived and the small town setting added a comforting, almost nostalgic charm. The interplay of romance and suspense was engaging and it kept me hooked.
What Didn’t Work for Me:
Some parts felt a bit predictable especially certain tropes. The suspense angle could have been stronger and more developed.
Lily Parker’s writing is simple yet engaging, making it easy to connect with the characters and stay invested in their journey. Her strength lies in capturing the subtleties of human connection while maintaining a sense of narrative tension, making Safe Haven a compelling and indulgent read for lovers of romantic suspense.
This was my first book of hers and I'd love to explore more of her books.
Thank you @lilyparkerauthor for trusting me with your work and @netgalley for the ARC !!
The story follows Bailey as she returns to Cedar Shores and is forced to face both her past and a present danger. Her reunion with Rhett brings a second chance romance that slowly builds alongside a thread of suspense.
The story explores healing, trust and what it truly means to feel safe. It shows how emotional security matters just as much as physical protection.
What I Loved:
What truly resonated was the palpable chemistry and emotional depth between the protagonists, Bailey and Rhett. The slow burn dynamic felt authentic rather than contrived and the small town setting added a comforting, almost nostalgic charm. The interplay of romance and suspense was engaging and it kept me hooked.
What Didn’t Work for Me:
Some parts felt a bit predictable especially certain tropes. The suspense angle could have been stronger and more developed.
Lily Parker’s writing is simple yet engaging, making it easy to connect with the characters and stay invested in their journey. Her strength lies in capturing the subtleties of human connection while maintaining a sense of narrative tension, making Safe Haven a compelling and indulgent read for lovers of romantic suspense.
This was my first book of hers and I'd love to explore more of her books.
Thank you @lilyparkerauthor for trusting me with your work and @netgalley for the ARC !!
March 15, 2026
Bailey is just about to release her seventh romance novel. One that means a lot to her, with parallels to her own life. Mainly her childhood crush (and best friend’s brother), Rhett. Who, after 6 declines, is finally coming to her book launch. Unbeknownst to Bailey her publicist, best friend and sister of Rhett, Hollis, has asked him to attend due to an obsessive stalker. One that grows increasingly dangerous, so much so that they travel back to the lake cabins that they spent their youth together.
Bailey and Rhett have been attracted to each other for years, but being the sibling of a best friend they were off-limits. The danger around Bailey and her stalker brings them closer. The relationship between them is sweet, I enjoyed their budding romance. I did feel the spicy scenes were a let down. All twee euphemisms and vague descriptions, overall a little bit cringey. Like the author was embarrassed by/about them. They were only a small part though, so didn’t detract too much from the story for me.
It’s set up for another story in the series, that of the respective siblings, Axel and Hollis. One I will look out for, to find out what really happened that summer and why the current animosity.
Overall a fun read.
Bailey and Rhett have been attracted to each other for years, but being the sibling of a best friend they were off-limits. The danger around Bailey and her stalker brings them closer. The relationship between them is sweet, I enjoyed their budding romance. I did feel the spicy scenes were a let down. All twee euphemisms and vague descriptions, overall a little bit cringey. Like the author was embarrassed by/about them. They were only a small part though, so didn’t detract too much from the story for me.
It’s set up for another story in the series, that of the respective siblings, Axel and Hollis. One I will look out for, to find out what really happened that summer and why the current animosity.
Overall a fun read.
April 24, 2026
Some loves don’t fade… they just wait.
Bailey thought she’d turned her past into fiction—writing men who love fiercely, protect relentlessly, and never let go. But Rhett? He was never just inspiration. He was the original.
Cedar Shores was supposed to be a memory. Instead, it becomes the one place they can run to when Bailey’s world turns dangerous. Isolated, tense, and full of history they never resolved… it doesn’t take long for everything to resurface.
This book thrives on longing. The kind that sits just beneath the surface until it finally spills over. Every quiet moment between them felt louder than words. And when it finally breaks? Worth every second.
The suspense added such a sharp edge to the story—I genuinely felt the pressure building as the messages escalated. It kept me hooked, but it was the emotional pull that stayed with me.
There’s something so satisfying about two people finding their way back—not as who they were, but as who they’ve become.
✨ second chance
✨ forced proximity
✨ protective, quietly intense MMC
✨ childhood history that matters
It felt like stepping into a memory you don’t want to leave.
Bailey thought she’d turned her past into fiction—writing men who love fiercely, protect relentlessly, and never let go. But Rhett? He was never just inspiration. He was the original.
Cedar Shores was supposed to be a memory. Instead, it becomes the one place they can run to when Bailey’s world turns dangerous. Isolated, tense, and full of history they never resolved… it doesn’t take long for everything to resurface.
This book thrives on longing. The kind that sits just beneath the surface until it finally spills over. Every quiet moment between them felt louder than words. And when it finally breaks? Worth every second.
The suspense added such a sharp edge to the story—I genuinely felt the pressure building as the messages escalated. It kept me hooked, but it was the emotional pull that stayed with me.
There’s something so satisfying about two people finding their way back—not as who they were, but as who they’ve become.
✨ second chance
✨ forced proximity
✨ protective, quietly intense MMC
✨ childhood history that matters
It felt like stepping into a memory you don’t want to leave.
April 25, 2026
Quick Summary: A Navy Seal romance
My Review: Safe Haven by Lily Parker is book #1 in the Cedar Shores series. It was released on 4/24/26.
About the Book: "She’s the queen of heartbreak. He’s the one who got away."
In My Own Words: When a threatening presence stalks a writer with a past, the man who shares a history with her steps in to protect her from an unidentified harm.
My Final Say: This romance suspense novel ticked all the boxes. It was...
❤️ Small-town
❤️ Friends-to-lovers
❤️ Romantic suspense
❤️ Brother’s best friend
❤️ Slow-burn
❤️ Spicy!
But it was also what was and what could be. It was crazy train & touch her and die. It was also confessions and a HEA.
Other: Readers who enjoy tension, drama, memories, and new beginnings should like this story.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Level: 🌶️
Format: 📱
Series: Yes
Cover: +
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Joffe Books), and to NetGalley. Thank you for providing access to a digital ARC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. It was a pleasure to review. I look forward to continuing with this series.
My Review: Safe Haven by Lily Parker is book #1 in the Cedar Shores series. It was released on 4/24/26.
About the Book: "She’s the queen of heartbreak. He’s the one who got away."
In My Own Words: When a threatening presence stalks a writer with a past, the man who shares a history with her steps in to protect her from an unidentified harm.
My Final Say: This romance suspense novel ticked all the boxes. It was...
❤️ Small-town
❤️ Friends-to-lovers
❤️ Romantic suspense
❤️ Brother’s best friend
❤️ Slow-burn
❤️ Spicy!
But it was also what was and what could be. It was crazy train & touch her and die. It was also confessions and a HEA.
Other: Readers who enjoy tension, drama, memories, and new beginnings should like this story.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Level: 🌶️
Format: 📱
Series: Yes
Cover: +
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Joffe Books), and to NetGalley. Thank you for providing access to a digital ARC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. It was a pleasure to review. I look forward to continuing with this series.
April 27, 2026
Do you have a place from your childhood that brings you peace of mind? For me, it's a lake we vacationed at every summer for 25 years as a family. This is exactly where Lily Parker transported me back to in her first installment of the Cedar Shores series Safe Haven. We meet Bailey, an accomplished author at her book signing and release party dressed in a memorable get up with her bestie, Hollis in tow. (Side note: Bailey, her brother Axle and Hollis all went to the same lake for summer vacations). What we don't know is that not one, but TWO characters are at the same event both about to bring chaos in unexpected ways. Rhett, a former SEAL, is actually Hollis's brother but on location going undercover for Bailey. The second is a stalker trying to get Bailey's attention. We go through twists and turns as Bailey navigates finding her safe haven again while the stalker attempts to make contact. The safest place for Bailey to escape to is out of the city and into the lake setting. Naturally, Rhett goes with her using his training to keep the area secure and safe. As a lake girl myself, I appreciate the need to get away and hide from how hard life can be. The best part of it all is that Bailey has written about this place in her 7 books and links all of her good times with Rhett to this place. He doesn't know it until he reads her book. I loved how Lily dragged out the slow burn of their love story, tying the childhood crush trope to love her but can't have her just yet. Loved their road trip to the lake with Rhett adding Bailey's name to all the song verses as my hubs does that to me often! I won't tell you how it ended as I want you to read this charmer for yourself, but I'll leave you with this: "Life is always a first draft, isn't it? We don't get to go back and polish up parts we wish we'd written better. We all have to figure out what happens after."
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️
April 23, 2026
❤️ Small-town
❤️ Friends-to-lovers
❤️ Romantic suspense
❤️ Brother’s best friend
❤️ Spicy!
She’s the queen of heartbreak.
He’s the one who got away.
Bailey spent her career writing men who would burn the world down for the women they love.
Turns out, she grew up with one.
If you love slow-burn romance with a hint of suspense, this second-chance, bookish romance is perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Abby Jimenez, Elle Kennedy, Catherine Cowles, Meghan Quinn, the small-town heat of Elsie Silver and the romance of The Summer I Turned Pretty.
❤️ Friends-to-lovers
❤️ Romantic suspense
❤️ Brother’s best friend
❤️ Spicy!
She’s the queen of heartbreak.
He’s the one who got away.
Bailey spent her career writing men who would burn the world down for the women they love.
Turns out, she grew up with one.
If you love slow-burn romance with a hint of suspense, this second-chance, bookish romance is perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Abby Jimenez, Elle Kennedy, Catherine Cowles, Meghan Quinn, the small-town heat of Elsie Silver and the romance of The Summer I Turned Pretty.
April 2, 2026
This is such a fun read! From the big city author events to the small lake town, the setting contrasts had me smitten! I really liked the stalker plot and flashbacks to Rhett’s Navy Seal/ Investigator days and how he brings it into the present. I loved Bailey & Rhett’s development together and the flashbacks to their childhood summer days. The Grotto may be my new favorite romantic scene ever! It’s so well done and how it shows up in her book and reality is so special. And it’s such a reminder that while we chase big dreams, sometimes a quiet next chapter is what we all need!
May 21, 2026
This book had so much potential, but I didn't love it.
From the beginning, the writing was difficult to follow and at times, overcomplicated. However, there were a few moments throughout the book that I quite enjoyed. I thought the pacing was a little odd - the suspense plot and the characters could have a little more development to be engaging. Overall, good concepts, but a little disappointing.
Tropes:
-Slow burn
-Childhood friends to lovers
-Author FMC
-Forced proximity
Thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley for providing me with a free e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
From the beginning, the writing was difficult to follow and at times, overcomplicated. However, there were a few moments throughout the book that I quite enjoyed. I thought the pacing was a little odd - the suspense plot and the characters could have a little more development to be engaging. Overall, good concepts, but a little disappointing.
Tropes:
-Slow burn
-Childhood friends to lovers
-Author FMC
-Forced proximity
Thank you to Joffe Books and NetGalley for providing me with a free e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 26, 2026
Just look at that cover, those colours, I just knew I had to read it.
This is the start of a new series by an author I know happens to write fantastic romances! We met a number of characters who will clearly feature heavily as this series progresses, and I cannot wait for that!
I thought the characters were brilliant, full of humour, heart, hurt and hope. What I truly loved about this though was the setting, I am an absolute sucker for a small town romance, and Cedar Shores is a beautiful lakeside town that comes straight from a Hallmark-esque dream. It sounds so idyllic, with that perfect place for kids to grow up and experience so much freedom in their environment. You can see the love building in a place like that, with a simple life swimming, rowing, fishing, and exploring. The grotto - such magic! An absolutely stunningly described location that I wish I could visit.
I loved Bayley's writing career aspects and snippets from her books, she sounds like a great writer! Rhett has had some harrowing experiences as a Navy Seal which have shaped him as an adult, and I loved seeing him come back to life through the healing power of love. Their siblings Hollis and Axel are super fun and supportive and have a huge chemistry, I hope to find that they have been secretly hooking up all through their adult lives in the future reads from this series.
I loved everything about this, I devoured it in just a couple of sittings over 24hours because I just didnt want to put it down! I would absolutely recommend this, and can't wait for the next one!
This is the start of a new series by an author I know happens to write fantastic romances! We met a number of characters who will clearly feature heavily as this series progresses, and I cannot wait for that!
I thought the characters were brilliant, full of humour, heart, hurt and hope. What I truly loved about this though was the setting, I am an absolute sucker for a small town romance, and Cedar Shores is a beautiful lakeside town that comes straight from a Hallmark-esque dream. It sounds so idyllic, with that perfect place for kids to grow up and experience so much freedom in their environment. You can see the love building in a place like that, with a simple life swimming, rowing, fishing, and exploring. The grotto - such magic! An absolutely stunningly described location that I wish I could visit.
I loved Bayley's writing career aspects and snippets from her books, she sounds like a great writer! Rhett has had some harrowing experiences as a Navy Seal which have shaped him as an adult, and I loved seeing him come back to life through the healing power of love. Their siblings Hollis and Axel are super fun and supportive and have a huge chemistry, I hope to find that they have been secretly hooking up all through their adult lives in the future reads from this series.
I loved everything about this, I devoured it in just a couple of sittings over 24hours because I just didnt want to put it down! I would absolutely recommend this, and can't wait for the next one!
April 22, 2026
A big thank you to Lily Parker and ChocLit for this arc! I was so excited to start the Cedar Shores series and this was a great way to begin my romantic suspense era!
Every summer growing up, Bailey and Rhett’s families would vacation together at their lakeside cabin getaway. Rhett was always Bailey’s first love but when he leaves for the Navy and Bailey pursues her dreams of becoming a romance author, their paths don’t cross for years.
But when concerns of a stalker surfaces around the time of her most recent book release, Rhett comes blazing back into Bailey’s life and will do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
This was the perfect mix of suspense and romance! Right from the beginning, through the flashbacks to their childhood, you felt how much Bailey and Rhett cherished each other and the natural way their friendship evolved into first love. My heart broke when they were so close to telling each other how they felt before Rhett left for the Navy but watching them drift apart for many years and then reconnect made the tension and yearning worth the heartache.
I also loved the suspenseful elements in this one! As someone who is new to romantic suspense, this was a great starting point. Watching Rhett’s protectiveness for Bailey as her stalker became more obsessive was giving perfect “touch her and die” energy and kept me on the edge of my seat to figure out what would happen next.
Lily also does an awesome job of intertwining side characters that bring all the best elements of found family that make you so excited to learn more about their stories as well. I can’t wait for the rest of this series!
Tropes:
- Romantic suspense
- Bestselling romance author x Ex Navy SEAL
- Brothers best friend
- Friends-to-lovers
- Lakeside cabin getaway
- Creepy stalker
- Protective MMC
Every summer growing up, Bailey and Rhett’s families would vacation together at their lakeside cabin getaway. Rhett was always Bailey’s first love but when he leaves for the Navy and Bailey pursues her dreams of becoming a romance author, their paths don’t cross for years.
But when concerns of a stalker surfaces around the time of her most recent book release, Rhett comes blazing back into Bailey’s life and will do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
This was the perfect mix of suspense and romance! Right from the beginning, through the flashbacks to their childhood, you felt how much Bailey and Rhett cherished each other and the natural way their friendship evolved into first love. My heart broke when they were so close to telling each other how they felt before Rhett left for the Navy but watching them drift apart for many years and then reconnect made the tension and yearning worth the heartache.
I also loved the suspenseful elements in this one! As someone who is new to romantic suspense, this was a great starting point. Watching Rhett’s protectiveness for Bailey as her stalker became more obsessive was giving perfect “touch her and die” energy and kept me on the edge of my seat to figure out what would happen next.
Lily also does an awesome job of intertwining side characters that bring all the best elements of found family that make you so excited to learn more about their stories as well. I can’t wait for the rest of this series!
Tropes:
- Romantic suspense
- Bestselling romance author x Ex Navy SEAL
- Brothers best friend
- Friends-to-lovers
- Lakeside cabin getaway
- Creepy stalker
- Protective MMC
April 27, 2026
After loving the Off-Limits series by this author, I was a really excited to see this new release and new series heading our way.
This first book in the Cedar Shores series had me as soon as I spotted the gorgeous front cover image - I loved the colours and what a cute image that just had me craving to know all about this new small town.
I loved Bailey as soon as we met her and really connected with her being an author. I love an author as a main character and taking a peek at the other side of writing - although this showed some of the not so pleasant elements to being a famous author and attending book events.
Rhett was Bailey's one that got away and after spending many years together growing up, he still left.
It was slretty obvious that Bailey still had feelings for Rhett and I couldn't wait to see just how this second chance romance would play out.
This was a tense read in places. Knowing you have a stalker is pretty creepy and I was a little worried about how far they would go to get to Bailey.
But there was lots of banter and lighter moments that brought us back from the darker elements , making this a really enjoyable read.
When they head back to Cedar Shores, we see all those memories flood back and it was lovely to hear all about the past, see other family members and watch those walls crumble as the chemistry becomes too much to ignore.
This was such a great start to the series and I honestly cannot wait to spend more time here.
I'm looking forward to meeting some new characters through book 2 soon.
This first book in the Cedar Shores series had me as soon as I spotted the gorgeous front cover image - I loved the colours and what a cute image that just had me craving to know all about this new small town.
I loved Bailey as soon as we met her and really connected with her being an author. I love an author as a main character and taking a peek at the other side of writing - although this showed some of the not so pleasant elements to being a famous author and attending book events.
Rhett was Bailey's one that got away and after spending many years together growing up, he still left.
It was slretty obvious that Bailey still had feelings for Rhett and I couldn't wait to see just how this second chance romance would play out.
This was a tense read in places. Knowing you have a stalker is pretty creepy and I was a little worried about how far they would go to get to Bailey.
But there was lots of banter and lighter moments that brought us back from the darker elements , making this a really enjoyable read.
When they head back to Cedar Shores, we see all those memories flood back and it was lovely to hear all about the past, see other family members and watch those walls crumble as the chemistry becomes too much to ignore.
This was such a great start to the series and I honestly cannot wait to spend more time here.
I'm looking forward to meeting some new characters through book 2 soon.
April 23, 2026
A beautiful setting, a touch of suspense, a lot of spice and great characters.
Bailey a new and successful author writes best selling hot romance but each book has a
reality only she realises. Her career is managed by her best friend Hollis and the story
goes back to the two of them and their two brothers Rhett and Axel as teenagers.
The inseparable four spend every summer at their parent’s log Cabins beside the idyllic
Cedar Lake. On reaching teenage the two boys decide on career paths and join the
Seals and The Airforce and the quartet is broken.
Bailey and Hollis agree that the boys are off limits but when the four split Bailey never
quite gets over Rhett. For her seventh book signing Hollis organises a grand bash in New
York but the whole event is marred a few days before The event when emails and
photographs start arriving .Bailey has a stalker and a dangerous one. Hollis secretly
calls in Rhett to be her minder until the signing is out of the way. Rhett has his own
demons after a Seal operation went wrong and he’s deeply mixed up.
There follows a suspenseful time as Rhett tries to protect Bailey and they flee to the safe
haven they both remember from their teenage escapades. A great story and titled as
Book 1 so I’m hoping for more. In the acknowledgements Lily says that she almost
chucked her laptop into the lake in frustration during the writing, I’m so glad she didn’
Bailey a new and successful author writes best selling hot romance but each book has a
reality only she realises. Her career is managed by her best friend Hollis and the story
goes back to the two of them and their two brothers Rhett and Axel as teenagers.
The inseparable four spend every summer at their parent’s log Cabins beside the idyllic
Cedar Lake. On reaching teenage the two boys decide on career paths and join the
Seals and The Airforce and the quartet is broken.
Bailey and Hollis agree that the boys are off limits but when the four split Bailey never
quite gets over Rhett. For her seventh book signing Hollis organises a grand bash in New
York but the whole event is marred a few days before The event when emails and
photographs start arriving .Bailey has a stalker and a dangerous one. Hollis secretly
calls in Rhett to be her minder until the signing is out of the way. Rhett has his own
demons after a Seal operation went wrong and he’s deeply mixed up.
There follows a suspenseful time as Rhett tries to protect Bailey and they flee to the safe
haven they both remember from their teenage escapades. A great story and titled as
Book 1 so I’m hoping for more. In the acknowledgements Lily says that she almost
chucked her laptop into the lake in frustration during the writing, I’m so glad she didn’
April 22, 2026
This was the perfect spring/summer read. Set in NY and at a lake house - it brought about all of the memories of summers past and growing up going to the beach/lake house. I absolutely loved Bailey and Rhett - and any story about an author who writes books is right up my alley. This has suspense, mystery, some drama, lots of slow burn with forced proximity, childhood friends to lovers. When Bailey and Rhett finally kiss - it's like fireworks (which we all knew would happen). The side characters are so fun too - like are Axel and Hollis going to end up together? Will they get their own story? And how about Savannah? with her imperfect timing?? haha - this was just perfection.
favorite quote of the whole book: "You are my safe haven, Bailey. Now and Then. When I'm with you everything else just disappears." - can't get more perfect than that.
favorite quote of the whole book: "You are my safe haven, Bailey. Now and Then. When I'm with you everything else just disappears." - can't get more perfect than that.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review: Safe Haven, by Lily Parker
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Life is always a first draft, isn’t it? We don’t get to go back and polish up parts we wish we’d written better, or done differently. And we all have to figure out what happens after the fairy tale effect has worn off.”
With the amazing off-limits series coming to an end last year, I was so excited to hear the author announcing her next work —> Cedar Shore series.
Bailey is an author out to do some signings for her new release when suddenly she sees him, Rhett Monroe. A puzzle piece of her life she thought she’d safely tucked into the back of her mind, until now. Rhett is an ex Navy Seal and has gotten info from his sister Hollis, who works for Bailey, that a there might be a potential stalker out to get Bailey… and how the story goes? Well you’ll have to read for yourselves to find out😮💨
Rhett & Bailey’s story is unique and intriguing. I really loved them both from the get go! Everything from Rhett’s changes in song lyrics to match her name, to the one bed trope at the motel. It was just what I wanted as a reader🤭
“Fuck everything else in this world but you. […] I’ve been hungry for you my whole life, and out here, with nothing else to stop us, or get in the way of this happening, I don’t want to be hungry anymore.”🥵
This was a romance book built on hardships, a scary stalker situation, safe spaces & the importance of having people around you. It also shows an MMC who’s utterly obsessed with his woman, and I love it😌 I think I felt a change in the tone & pacing of the story once we moved to the cabin setting - which unfortunately threw me off a little. But overall a very enjoyable story!
Thank you to the author Lily Parker for once again giving us a beautiful story with characters you simply cannot not relate to. I also would like to thank Joffe Books for the ARC🩷Safe Haven is being published tomorrow, on April 23rd! I definitely recommend you buying it📖
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Life is always a first draft, isn’t it? We don’t get to go back and polish up parts we wish we’d written better, or done differently. And we all have to figure out what happens after the fairy tale effect has worn off.”
With the amazing off-limits series coming to an end last year, I was so excited to hear the author announcing her next work —> Cedar Shore series.
Bailey is an author out to do some signings for her new release when suddenly she sees him, Rhett Monroe. A puzzle piece of her life she thought she’d safely tucked into the back of her mind, until now. Rhett is an ex Navy Seal and has gotten info from his sister Hollis, who works for Bailey, that a there might be a potential stalker out to get Bailey… and how the story goes? Well you’ll have to read for yourselves to find out😮💨
Rhett & Bailey’s story is unique and intriguing. I really loved them both from the get go! Everything from Rhett’s changes in song lyrics to match her name, to the one bed trope at the motel. It was just what I wanted as a reader🤭
“Fuck everything else in this world but you. […] I’ve been hungry for you my whole life, and out here, with nothing else to stop us, or get in the way of this happening, I don’t want to be hungry anymore.”🥵
This was a romance book built on hardships, a scary stalker situation, safe spaces & the importance of having people around you. It also shows an MMC who’s utterly obsessed with his woman, and I love it😌 I think I felt a change in the tone & pacing of the story once we moved to the cabin setting - which unfortunately threw me off a little. But overall a very enjoyable story!
Thank you to the author Lily Parker for once again giving us a beautiful story with characters you simply cannot not relate to. I also would like to thank Joffe Books for the ARC🩷Safe Haven is being published tomorrow, on April 23rd! I definitely recommend you buying it📖
April 23, 2026
Loved It!
Bailey Jones is a very successful author of romantic stories. Her main male character is based on her first love but who left her and never looked back, but when he finds out she has a stalker he returns to protect her, and they go back to Cedar Shores, the place they used to spend the summer holidays with their families and where Rhett thinks she will be safe. All the old feelings Bailey had for Rhett, resurface, but will she be able to hide them from him, and will the stalker find her? I really enjoyed this book and was desperate for Rhett to return her feelings and not hurt her again.
Bailey Jones is a very successful author of romantic stories. Her main male character is based on her first love but who left her and never looked back, but when he finds out she has a stalker he returns to protect her, and they go back to Cedar Shores, the place they used to spend the summer holidays with their families and where Rhett thinks she will be safe. All the old feelings Bailey had for Rhett, resurface, but will she be able to hide them from him, and will the stalker find her? I really enjoyed this book and was desperate for Rhett to return her feelings and not hurt her again.
April 29, 2026
Well damn…. I didn’t have any specific expectations for this book but it was damn good.
April 22, 2026
Thank you so much to Lily Parker and Choc Lit for the gifted eARC and physical ARC of Safe Haven. This was the first romantic suspense book that I've read, and I really enjoyed it! I will definitely read more in this genre. I loved the dynamic between Bailey and Rhett. The slow burn was great, the romance was well done, and the plot/mystery element was epic! I did not want to stop reading once I started because I had to know what was going to happen next! When you read a Lily Parker book, not only do you get a beautiful romance, but you also get so much character development and growth. I am so excited to see where she takes this series next. I truly loved the overarching message of having a memory of a location or person that was a safe haven, and how that impacted your life. You can really tell Lily poured her heart and soul into this book and these characters.
April 21, 2026
Safe Haven by Lily Parker is a sweet second-chance romance with a hint of suspense. I absolutely loved every second of Rhett and Bailey’s story. The small lakeside cabin setting added such a cozy, nostalgic vibe that reminded me of my own summers at the cottage growing up. It honestly made me miss those days and wish that place was still around.
Happy I was able to receive an ARC copy for an honest review.
Happy I was able to receive an ARC copy for an honest review.
July 6, 2026
My Initial Thoughts
Isn’t the cover beautiful, those colours are stunning. Straight away seeing the dedication, (we all know I’m a goner for them.)
“For anyone who’s ever stood in the exact same place, beside the exact same person, while feeling homesick for the memory of both.”
This is my fourth book by Lily and I was excited for a new series! Bailey Jones is an author, so straight away we are on author scene that I was excited for, because I love a book that has some part bookish about it! And the “accidental” back to each other that happens to….. swoon.
Plot
I enjoyed the plot, the danger element that Bailey faces because of her stalk er. Rhett is extremely overprotective, and given what we learn about his history throughout the story, it makes sense.
I really enjoyed the fact that it was second chance, in a place that meant so much to the pair of them. The danger was well plotted and you could feel the tension and most certainly the tension between Bailey and Rhett. That being said I cannot wait for the next book!
Characters
Bailey is a published author who picks up a stalk er. Luckily Rhett is a force to be reckoned with. I enjoyed the moments they shared together and the waterfall scene was hot!
I enjoyed the side characters as well and loved the small town of Cedar Shores.
Recommend
If you enjoy second chance, small town romance suspense, this should be on your tbr.
Favourite Quote/s
“Rhett has always been the calm in a storm, even before any of us were old enough to realize what that meant.”
“Honey, you look happier out here, driving this damn Jeep though the woods than you’ve looked since I got to your apartment last week. I think you’re half forest animal at heart.”
“Step away from the lumberjack, Bailey.”
Favourite Chapter/s
My favourite chapters were 17, 18, 21, 22, 25, 27 and 38.
Spicy chapter/s
There is spice in chapters 26, 33,38 and 39.
Summed up in one sentence
Cute small town, second chance romance.
Overall Wrap up
The grumpy x sunshine mixed with best friend’s brother or brother’s best friend depending on the way you look at it works so well for both Bailey and Rhett.
The lumberjack scene had me biting my own lips so much, damn that was a hot part and there was no spice involved in that!
I enjoyed the trips down memory lane and just had a good time reading this.
Stars & spice. 4 stars and 2.5 chilli’s.
Dates read – started on 27th April and finished on 3rd May 2026.
Book Information – Safe Haven by Lily Parker.
Genre – Romance suspense.
Pages – 348 pages.
Tropes –
Best friends brother/brothers’ best friend.
Small town.
Friends to lovers.
Second chance.
Forced proximity.
Slow burn.
Available on Kindle Unlimited – This is available on kindle unlimited.
Available Formats – Available on kindle and paperback.
Publishing Information – Published on 23rd April 2026 by Choc Lit.
Format in Which I Read – My copy was on kindle.
Where my copy come From – My copy came from Zooloo’s Book Tours.
POVs – This is written in dual POV – Rhett and Bailey.
Single/Dual/Multiple Timelines – This is written on a single timeline, with flashbacks to their past together.
1st, 2nd or 3rd person – This is written in first person.
HEA, HFN or Cliff hanger – This ends with a HEA.
Series or Standalone – This is book one in the Cedar Shores series.
Trigger Warnings – Please check content warnings before reading if necessary and please always remember that your mental health matters.
Isn’t the cover beautiful, those colours are stunning. Straight away seeing the dedication, (we all know I’m a goner for them.)
“For anyone who’s ever stood in the exact same place, beside the exact same person, while feeling homesick for the memory of both.”
This is my fourth book by Lily and I was excited for a new series! Bailey Jones is an author, so straight away we are on author scene that I was excited for, because I love a book that has some part bookish about it! And the “accidental” back to each other that happens to….. swoon.
Plot
I enjoyed the plot, the danger element that Bailey faces because of her stalk er. Rhett is extremely overprotective, and given what we learn about his history throughout the story, it makes sense.
I really enjoyed the fact that it was second chance, in a place that meant so much to the pair of them. The danger was well plotted and you could feel the tension and most certainly the tension between Bailey and Rhett. That being said I cannot wait for the next book!
Characters
Bailey is a published author who picks up a stalk er. Luckily Rhett is a force to be reckoned with. I enjoyed the moments they shared together and the waterfall scene was hot!
I enjoyed the side characters as well and loved the small town of Cedar Shores.
Recommend
If you enjoy second chance, small town romance suspense, this should be on your tbr.
Favourite Quote/s
“Rhett has always been the calm in a storm, even before any of us were old enough to realize what that meant.”
“Honey, you look happier out here, driving this damn Jeep though the woods than you’ve looked since I got to your apartment last week. I think you’re half forest animal at heart.”
“Step away from the lumberjack, Bailey.”
Favourite Chapter/s
My favourite chapters were 17, 18, 21, 22, 25, 27 and 38.
Spicy chapter/s
There is spice in chapters 26, 33,38 and 39.
Summed up in one sentence
Cute small town, second chance romance.
Overall Wrap up
The grumpy x sunshine mixed with best friend’s brother or brother’s best friend depending on the way you look at it works so well for both Bailey and Rhett.
The lumberjack scene had me biting my own lips so much, damn that was a hot part and there was no spice involved in that!
I enjoyed the trips down memory lane and just had a good time reading this.
Stars & spice. 4 stars and 2.5 chilli’s.
Dates read – started on 27th April and finished on 3rd May 2026.
Book Information – Safe Haven by Lily Parker.
Genre – Romance suspense.
Pages – 348 pages.
Tropes –
Best friends brother/brothers’ best friend.
Small town.
Friends to lovers.
Second chance.
Forced proximity.
Slow burn.
Available on Kindle Unlimited – This is available on kindle unlimited.
Available Formats – Available on kindle and paperback.
Publishing Information – Published on 23rd April 2026 by Choc Lit.
Format in Which I Read – My copy was on kindle.
Where my copy come From – My copy came from Zooloo’s Book Tours.
POVs – This is written in dual POV – Rhett and Bailey.
Single/Dual/Multiple Timelines – This is written on a single timeline, with flashbacks to their past together.
1st, 2nd or 3rd person – This is written in first person.
HEA, HFN or Cliff hanger – This ends with a HEA.
Series or Standalone – This is book one in the Cedar Shores series.
Trigger Warnings – Please check content warnings before reading if necessary and please always remember that your mental health matters.
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