One Step Closer

Peachtree Lane #1

by Laura Pavlov

From USA Today bestselling author Laura Pavlov comes a searingly warm and witty romance between an NFL player looking for a second chance and the innkeeper who gives him one.

With a championship loss under his belt and an ex-girlfriend’s bad press on his heels, quarterback Maverick Storm just needs to lie low. He escapes to Peachtree to lick his wounds and reevaluate his life. But the owner of the local inn soon puts his heart in a twist.

Hazel Adams isn’t one to make rash decisions—with her inn or her emotions. Seeing your ex-boyfriend and former best friend together does something to a person, though. And kissing a sexy stranger turns out to be Hazel’s something.

That kiss inspires Hazel and Maverick to try fake dating as a temporary fix for all their problems. But when the paparazzi catches wind of the unexpected romance, they’re in for a more long-term arrangement.

As they grow closer, their guards begin to come down. But with their lifestyles at odds and their hearts at stake, they’ll have to decide whether to make their connection real—or keep pretending it’s not.

Genres: Romance, Fake Dating, Forced Proximity, Sports Romance, Contemporary Romance

279 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication December 8, 2026

About the author

Laura Pavlov is a USA Today and Amazon top 10 Bestselling author. She writes sweet and sexy small town romance that will make you both laugh and cry. Laura is happily married to her college sweetheart, mom to two awesome kids who are currently adulting, one temperamental yorkie and one wild bernedoodle. She's living her own happily ever after in Las Vegas. Be sure to sign up for updates on new releases. Laura loves hearing from readers!

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Website➡️https://www.laurapavlov.com/

Reviews

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maverick’s team just lost the Super Bowl, and both the fans and Maverick himself blame him for the loss. On top of that, his ex is putting him on blast in the media over the way she claims he broke up with her. He needs some time away to clear his head and get out of the public eye, so he decides to spend the off season in the small town of Peachtree.
On his very first day there, he meets Hazel, a girl he befriends and ends up helping with her current problem by starting a fake relationship that ends up becoming something much bigger than either of them expected.

I absolutely adored Hazel! She’s so funny and effortlessly herself, just like her sister and mom. They’re all so charismatic, and every scene with Hazel and Delilah, or the three of them together, had me laughing. And the way Delilah is always taking care of her sister made me love her even more. They’re easily my favorite characters!
Maverick is funny too, just not quite on Hazel and her family’s level (because honestly, you can’t compete with them). I especially loved seeing his playful side come out when he’s with Hazel. She really brings that side of him out. That plus the fact that she always knows what he needs to hear when he's struggling and he knows what to do when she's spiraling made them a couple I absolutely loved reading about.

I devoured this book! It’s one of those stories that’s so easy to get lost in, and the ending was just too cute. I had such a good time reading this one, and after that ending I need to know more about Delilah!

[chelseabrookelikesbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fake dating is great and all, but you know what gets me every freaking time? When the couple actually LIKES each other.

And that was Maverick and Hazel for me.

These two had the kind of relationship where the romance almost sneaks up on you because somewhere along the way they became best friends. They laughed together, communicated like actual adults, knew how to pull each other out of their own heads, and genuinely just enjoyed being around one another. I freaking LOVED that.

Maverick comes to Peachtree looking for somewhere to disappear after his life turns into a media circus, and Hazel has absolutely no clue who he is. Then one very convenient moment turns into fake dating and, well…we all know how that goes. 🤭

Except the pretending starts feeling very real, very quickly.

And MAVERICK STORM. That man is one giant green flag! The way Hazel brought out this playful, softer side of him?! The way he paid attention to her and knew what she needed when she was spiraling?! And him calling her sunshine?! Laura, please. I can only take so much.

But Hazel’s family might have stolen the entire book. Her relationship with Delilah was SO much fun, their mom and her completely random facts killed me, and I already know I’m going to be ridiculously invested in everyone’s business throughout this series.

This was such a fun start to Peachtree Lane. It was sweet, funny, low angst, and gave me that cozy small town feeling Laura Pavlov does SO well, but it was Maverick and Hazel’s friendship underneath the romance that really made this one for me.

Thank you so much to Montlake, NetGalley, and Laura Pavlov for this e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Jessica LaPorte · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

I am usually a big fan of Laura Pavlov’s books, so when I was able to get this ARC so early, I was really excited. Unfortunately, I was pretty disappointed by this one and it just wasn’t my favorite.

Fake dating is one of my favorite tropes of all time, so I thought this would be the perfect read for me. But unfortunately, I just didn’t feel the chemistry between Maverick and Hazel. Everything felt like it happened so fast, and I never felt like there was much of a build-up to their relationship. I really enjoyed Hazel’s family and all of the banter between them, but when it came to the romance, I just wasn’t feeling it.

Hazel also sounded much younger than she was supposed to be a lot of the time, and that was something I just couldn’t get past. It became especially cringey with how often she called Maverick “lover.” It was little things like that throughout the book that completely took me out of the story.

That being said, I am interested in the next book and will definitely be reading it. The ending definitely left me intrigued about where that story is going, so I’m hoping the next one will be more of a hit for me!

Tropes:
❤️Small Town Romance
❤️Football Player
❤️Forced Proximity
❤️Fake Dating

[Wendy LeGrand · Rating 3 out of 5]

Laura Pavlov is one of those authors that I have been following for a long time on all the socials. I love her to pieces, she's so nice and genuine, she lives in Las Vegas like I do, and I've got probably 25 of her books on my kindle. I've just never had an opportunity to actually start reading her books, until just now when space opened up in my reading schedule. Then the dilemma was, which book/series do I start? The problem solved itself when I saw One Step Closer listed on Netgalley and I quickly downloaded it and started reading.

I love the premise of this book. Maverick and Hazel quickly endeared themselves to me, and I smiled big at their first interaction at the Inn that Hazel owns with her sister. Then later, the quick thinking of Hazel to get Maverick to kiss her on the street when she sees her cheating ex-boyfriend walking towards her with her ex best friend that he cheated with, is the start of the whole fake dating scenario that takes place in the story.

It very quickly became clear that these two had real feelings for each other, but Hazel was so stubborn and steadfast in constantly insisting that they stage a fake breakup that I grew very tired of reading about it. Maverick was going to be in Peachtree for three months, so I couldn't figure out why Hazel was SO insistent on fake ending things before they even got fake started. Even after they finally succumbed to their feelings and truly started dating for the time Maverick had left there, Hazel spent the whole time talking about when he left and ending things but staying friends. It was so monotonous and tiring. I didn't feel like they really let themselves enjoy their time, but it had a ticking clock attached the whole way through.

I loved all of the side characters, with some notable exceptions, and I was very happy to see those few people got a huge does of Karma, and some hard ugly truths that needed to come out. I always love reading small town romance, and Peachtree was a particular delight, especially how fast news traveled around there, sometimes within minutes!

Whenever I start reading a new author's books, I tend to pay particular attention in the first book to what their writing style is, if things paint clear pictures for me, and especially if things feel repetitive. The one repetitive thing that really stuck out to me in this one was how many times the infamous "F" word appears throughout this book. Maverick, especially, loved to insert an F bomb into so many of his sentences, and I was left wondering why so much? Were that many really necessary? I know going forward, it will be something I'm now looking for in the other books I read from Laura. I wasn't the biggest fan of the nickname she picked for Maverick, either. He called her Sunshine which a truly loved, but she called him Lover, which felt a bit weird, since they initially only had a fake relationship.

Overall, it was a very entertaining story as far as the antics of small-town living, and I did love the two main characters, I just felt Hazel was way too focused on the whole breaking up from their fake romance that it dragged the story down a bit.

[Rondi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is SO adorable!

We meet Maverick when he checks into a local inn, and of course, he gives them the name Oscar Meyer. We don’t know exactly what his deal is at first, but it turns out he’s a professional football player who just lost the Super Bowl and is having a bit of a hard time dealing with everything.

Then he meets Hazel.

Hazel is the owner of the inn with her sister, and these two immediately hit it off. Hazel is basically thinking this man is the most handsome man she’s ever seen in her life.

They start talking and becoming friends, and then Maverick overhears everyone asking Hazel how she feels about her ex-boyfriend marrying her ex-best friend. He swoops in and saves her by asking her to sit down and have a drink with him.

And I have to mention one of the funniest parts of the beginning: Hazel actually wonders if Maverick might be an adult film star. I was GIGGLING.

The next morning, after a little cajoling from Maverick, they go to breakfast together - and wouldn’t you know it, they run into Hazel’s ex-boyfriend and ex-best friend. Hazel kisses Maverick, and suddenly they have this elaborate fake-dating story that is absolutely wonderful.

Of course, they’re supposed to eventually “break up,” but the more time they spend together, the more they realize just how much they genuinely enjoy each other.

They go running together. They have dinner together. Maverick walks up to the inn to bring her home. They talk. They laugh. They just genuinely LIKE each other.

And I loved that this felt like such an adult relationship.

They both know the distance between them could be a problem, and they’re trying to be realistic about what that means. But then someone photographs them together, and suddenly their relationship is everywhere. Hazel is thrust into a spotlight she definitely isn’t used to.

But this is where I really loved the story because Maverick is RIGHT THERE with her.

There isn’t some huge misunderstanding or unnecessary drama. Hazel admits she’s nervous, and he helps her through it. And then everyone ends up absolutely loving Hazel - which is when Maverick starts realizing that maybe he doesn’t want this to end either.

And yes, we get some spice along the way! But I will say this is definitely a slow burn, and I loved watching these two fall for each other because you can tell how much they genuinely like one another.

Hazel’s mom is HILARIOUS. And Hazel’s sister Delilah is also fantastic, and I’m pretty sure the next book is going to feature her - which I am already VERY excited about!

I’m just going to say it: Laura knocked this one out of the park.

But honestly, there really isn’t anything I’ve read from Laura that I haven’t enjoyed, so this being five stars across the board should surprise absolutely no one.

I enjoyed this story SO much, and I cannot wait to see where the rest of the Peachtree Lane series takes us!

Have you read Laura Pavlov before? Are you excited for One Step Closer?

[Kim (Chipperbooks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

💫Title: One Step Closer 📚Series: Peachtree Lane, Book 1
✍🏻Author: Laura Pavlov 🗣️Narrators: Aiden Snow and Andi Arndt
👩‍❤️‍👨Main Characters: Maverick and Hazel 🗒️P. 279
📱Book Type Reviewed: E-Book 🗓️Release Date: 12/08/2026
🔹Tropes: Romance, Small Town, Pro Football Player, Innkeeper, Fake Dating, Long Distance
🌟Rating: 4.25 ⭐️

Such a sweet small town read. What starts out as a favor of sorts, turns to fake dating, that’s not so fake, and now neither wants to say goodbye.

The season is over for Maverick and things didn’t go the way he had hoped. But with football season over, he gets a chance to rest and relax for a few months before his demanding career takes over for next season. Because of the game, and his ex, Maverick hopes he can hide in this small town of Peachtree and no one will bother or care about him. Things don’t go quite as planned.

Hazel and her sister own a local inn and restaurant in Peachtree; both love what they do. Hazel, who doesn’t really follow sports, is very curious about a guest checking in, using an unusual name. Even after finding out his real name, still has no idea who he is. And it’s not his name or career that has Hazel intrigued…it’s his gorgeous good looks and easy going charm. So when Maverick steps up to help Hazel out, the two hit it off quickly and…she just might be in trouble with this guy.

First book of the series and such a good start. Love the small town vibe. Despite everyone being up in your business, there are also so many people to have your back and care about you. Loved Maverick and Hazel from the start. Such a cute and fun beginning for the two and really like how their friendship, then relationship, came about. Maverick and Hazel were a great match, each of them being the perfect person, or being what the other needed in someone. And most importantly, love that they try! Make a plan, try hard, and follow through. I wish we could have gotten a bit more but loved this nonetheless.


Series:

1- One Step Closer


Thank you to #NetGalley, #Montlake for this book. All reviews and opinions are my own.

[Kirstie Pepper · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

There’s just something about a Laura Pavlov small-town romance that gets me every single time.
One Step Closer gave me all the warm, feel-good vibes I want from this kind of story. It had an almost Hallmark-movie feel to it, with the charming small-town setting, the big-city connection, and two people from very different worlds slowly figuring out how they might fit into each other’s lives. It was cosy, romantic, and so easy to get swept up in.
One of my favourite things about Maverick and Hazel was the emotional maturity in their relationship. They actually communicated, reflected on how they were feeling, and handled difficult situations like adults, which made their connection feel so much more genuine. I loved watching them grow individually while also working out what they wanted from each other.
And the fake dating? Obviously, I ate it up. 😂 What started as something pretend gradually became this lovely connection where they genuinely enjoyed being together, no matter what capacity that was in. The romance had such a nice balance of tension and sweetness, and I couldn’t help rooting for Maverick and Hazel to find a way to combine their two very separate lives into one.
Maverick calling Hazel “sunshine”? Adorable. No notes. ☀️
Hazel constantly calling Maverick her “lover,” however...
I’m sorry, but I simply could not get behind it. 😂 Every single time she said it, it pulled me out of the story a little and made me cringe sometimes. It just didn’t feel like it suited her character or their relationship, and by the end I was begging that word to just stop being used.
Bonus points absolutely go to Hazel’s family because I loved them. The banter between everyone was so much fun, her mum’s random facts cracked me up, and the way she kept intercepting Maverick for conversations was endlessly entertaining.
I do wish the epilogue had given us a little more follow-up, but I’m hoping that just means we’ll get plenty of Maverick and Hazel appearances in future books.
Overall, this was another cosy, charming Laura Pavlov romance that left me with that warm, happy feeling at the end. I already cannot wait to head back to Peachtree Lane and see whose story we get next.

thank you to netgalley, Montlake and Laura Pavlov for the opportunity to read this.

[Shelby · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Step Closer was such a cute, feel good start to the Peachtree Lane series! It gave me all the cozy small town romance vibes with a little bit of that Hallmark feeling, small town girl meets big city NFL quarterback, fake dating, forced proximity, and plenty of family banter.

The story follows Hazel, who co-owns the Peachtree Inn with her sister and has sworn off relationships after being cheated on, and Maverick, an NFL quarterback who escapes to Peachtree after a Super Bowl loss to get away from the media and pressure surrounding him. Neither of them is looking for a relationship, but a little fake dating quickly turns into something neither of them expected.

I really enjoyed watching Hazel and Maverick become best friends first but I do feel their relationship was a little too fast at the beginning. Maverick was completely swoon worthy, and I loved how open he was about his feelings and how he showed up for Hazel when she needed him. Their relationship had sweetness, chemistry, and some great emotional growth as they figured out what they truly wanted.

I also loved Hazel’s family and all of their banter! The small town atmosphere and found family feeling added so much charm to the story!

My biggest complaint, the constant use of “lover.” 😂 I just could not get behind Hazel calling Maverick that throughout the book! It pulled me out of the story a few times and definitely wasn’t my favorite nickname. I loved his ‘sunshine’ nickname for her though!

Overall, this was a sweet, cozy romance and a great introduction to Peachtree Lane. I’m definitely curious to see where Laura Pavlov takes the series next, and I’m already looking forward to Book 2!

3.75 ⭐️

❤️ Small-Town Romance
🏈 NFL Player
💕 Fake Dating
🏡 Forced Proximity
✨ Friends to Lovers
🔥 Opposites Attract
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Found Family
🌸 Feel-Good Romance

[The Lit · Rating 5 out of 5]

🚨 SPOILER ALERT: READ AT YOUR OWN RISK!
​I am giving One Step Closer by Laura Pavlov an absolute, glowing 5-star review! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
​Every single time I pick up a Laura Pavlov book, I know I am in for a fantastic read, and this start to the Peachtree Lane series did not disappoint in the slightest! 🌸✨
​ARC Disclosure: A huge thank you to NetGalley, publisher Montlake, and author Laura Pavlov for providing an early digital review copy (eARC) of this book! (Publication Date: Dec 8, 2026 | Archive Date: Dec 22, 2026). All thoughts, fanatical reactions, and honest reflections shared in this review are entirely my own.
​The Review
​One Step Closer by Laura Pavlov is an absolute masterclass in romantic perfection! Maverick is top-tier MMC material in every possible way, and Hazel is such a phenomenal, relatable FMC that you instantly root for her. Their chemistry from start to finish is electric, sweet, and deeply addicting.
​I love how their fake dating arrangement feels completely natural and organically builds their relationship. When that setup transitions into forced proximity, it flows so seamlessly that it never feels manufactured for us as readers. On top of the swoon-worthy romance, I absolutely laughed out loud with Hazel's family—their chaotic dynamics and hilarity added so much joy and warmth to the storyline. This was a flawless 5-star start to the series, and I honestly cannot wait to read Book 2 in the Peachtree Lane world!
​The Good
​Top-tier MMC energy in Maverick, seamless fake-dating-to-real-feelings transition, hilarious family dynamics that will make you laugh out loud, and effortless forced proximity!
​The Not So Good
​Having to wait for Book 2 in the Peachtree Lane series after such an incredible debut!

[Kate Laycoax · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am really happy that Laura Pavlov is getting a trad debut for a brand new series, and I have really enjoyed her previous books and series for the most part. I was excited for this ARC especially, but I just didn't love it like I thought I would, which really bums me out.

Fake dating is my favorite trope of all time, so I love that this book centers around that, but I just didn't get the chemistry from Maverick and Hazel that I wanted and is needed to really make this trope work. They actually seemed better as friends, like two people helping each other out in a weird spot but nothing romantic.

I also disliked how Hazel spoke at times... it was sort of childish and juvenile and cringe. Here's some examples: “Oh , my gaaawwwddd, this is so good.” & “Thank you for inviting me,” she said, peeking up at me. “Look at us, we’re practically Insta besties.” I'm sorry, but no one really talks like that and it was really annoying. I also felt like a lot of this was tell, not show and I wanted more from that aspect.

Their meet cute was both fun and funny, and I did like some of the plot. I also really am interested in the stories of other characters (no spoilers) and look forward to the rest of the series, even though this one was not my favorite.

Thank you to NetGalley, Laura Pavlov, and Montlake for the eARC of this book.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Pavlov really said, “Let me rip your heart out, put it back together, and give you the most beautiful HEA.” 😭🤍

Maverick and Hazel’s story was EVERYTHING. A quarterback hiding away in a small town after his life gets turned upside down? An inn owner who’s dealing with heartbreak of her own? A kiss between two strangers that turns into FAKE DATING?! Say less. I was immediately invested.

What starts as an arrangement that benefits them both quickly becomes something neither of them expected. Watching Maverick and Hazel slowly let their guards down and realize that maybe what they were pretending to have wasn’t pretend at all had me absolutely melting. 🥹

But this one was also a TEARJERKER. 😭 There were moments that genuinely broke my heart, and Laura Pavlov did such a beautiful job balancing the emotional pieces of their stories with the romance, banter, chemistry, and small-town goodness that I love so much.

And that HEA?! SO worth every single tear. 🤍

Maverick Storm, you have my heart. Hazel, I absolutely adored you. And Peachtree? Yeah, I’m ready to pack my bags and move in immediately. 😂

Laura Pavlov continues to remind me exactly why she is one of my favorite authors. I already cannot WAIT for the next one!!

Thank you so much Laura Pavlov, Montlake, and NetGalley for the #gifted eARC! 🤍

[Tayten Hardy · Rating 4 out of 5]

NetGalley Book Review!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

One Step Closer by Lauren Pavlov gave me all the warm, feel-good vibes I look for in a small-town romance! There’s something almost Hallmark-like about the story—the small-town setting, the big-city connection, and that feeling of two very different worlds slowly coming together. It was cozy, romantic, and easy to get swept up in.

One of my favorite parts was the emotional maturity of the main characters. Their relationship felt grounded because they actually communicated, reflected on their feelings, and handled difficult situations like adults. I loved watching them grow individually while also figuring out what they wanted from each other.

The romance had just the right amount of tension and sweetness, and the small-town atmosphere made everything feel even more charming. It’s the kind of book that leaves you with that warm, happy feeling when you reach the end.

Tropes:
✨ Small Town Romance
✨ Small Town/Big City
✨ Opposites Attract
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Slow Burn
✨ Emotional Growth
✨ Found Family
✨ Feel-Good Romance

If you’re looking for a sweet, heartfelt romance with Hallmark-like charm, emotionally mature characters, and a cozy small-town setting, One Step Closer is definitely one to pick up! 💕

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

May contain spoilers. Thank you for the ARC of this book (NetGalley)

This was a solid 3.5 star read. There are some real comedic, laugh out loud moments in this book from the main and side characters, Hazel’s mom in particular had many incredible one liners, true belly laughing dialogue. I found myself laughing within the first five minutes of reading this book, which is a really good sign of things to come in a romance. It felt very cozy. I actually enjoyed many of the tropes, specifically the Athlete/Celebrity Romance.

I would say a downfall for me was how fast they trusted each other and began fake dating, it was the complete opposite of a slow burn (it is not advertised as one, however) and I personally felt like the agreement of fake dating, with a total stranger happened in a paragraph / one page very very very early on. They had the trust of a 20 year relationship within 1 chapter, I felt like I had missed something in that sense. The connection was too early for my own personal liking and I would’ve liked to have seen more of a build up in the early chapters. Two highly likeable characters, but the storyline fell a bit flat and could've been much stronger. The writing however was really strong, especially a lot Hazels dialogue.

[Rachael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maverick & Hazel

This once again proves why Laura is the Queen of small town romance, let me move to Peachtree and be apart of this little community! Maverick and Hazel were so swoonworthy! Her side characters always have me heavily invested and always provide so much entertainment!

I loved how this was a little bit of opposites attract, Maverick hiding out after some bad media coverage and Hazel not knowing who he was and being able to make him laugh and show him how to slow down in life.

Obviously I was obsessed with the fake dating and how we got a delicious moment in front of the ex so soon! I love the tension that comes with the will they, wont they.

So many great communication scenes and felt like Laura put so much thought and love to all of it.
Overall a beautiful, cute romance that had me wanting more! Looking forward to Delilah's book!

4.5⭐️2.5🌶

Bonus Points go to Hazel's family, i loved the banter between all of them. Her mum's random facts and how she kept intercepting Maverick to talk to him was so entertaining!

Thankyou to Laura, Netgalley and Montlake for the opportunity to read this one early 🫶🏻

[hannahwells.books · Rating 4 out of 5]

ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ

𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐩 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐫 by Laura Pavlov

There’s just something about a Laura Pavlov small town romance that just gets me every single time.

𝗠𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗸 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺
QB for the San Francisco Rangers
Hiding out in Peachtree after a Super Bowl loss

𝙃𝙖𝙯𝙚𝙡 𝘼𝙙𝙖𝙢𝙨
Small town girl, runs Peachtree Inn
Caught her best friend in bed with her boyfriend

This simple and sweet small-town romance swept me off my feet. I loved Maverick and Hazel so dang much. An unexpected friendship built on understanding; their communication was top notch! I loved how organically their love grew over time and how they worked together to resolve every single issue they were dealt. [Teamwork makes the dream work, right?!] Maverick Storm is a walking green flag; it was such a joy to see him WIN!

If you are in the mood for a quick and dreamy love story with all the small-town gossip and characters you can’t help but love, grab One Step Closer when it releases December 8th.

Peachtree is such a lovable little town and I am so excited to continue this series.

𝘍𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘋𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨
𝘍𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴
𝘍𝘰𝘰𝘵𝘣𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦
𝘚𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘛𝘰𝘸𝘯

Huge thanks to NetGalley, Montlake, and LP for the gifted ARC.

[Courtney Royse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for allowing me early access to the book! Laura Pavlov is one of my favorite authors and I was so excited to jump into another series! I can already tell it is going to be great!
This book was 4.75⭐️ for me. The only thing that made me not give it a 5 was the lover reference through the whole book. I’m not a fan of that name from the FMC at all.
This book is about Maverick and Hazel. It takes place in Peachtree, a small town where Hazel co-owns the inn with her sister. After a Super Bowl loss, Maverick needed to get away from the media and the pressures of life. Neither of them were ready for a relationship but fate and attraction changed the trajectory for them.
Maverick was total swoon worthy through the whole book. He never hid his feelings and was there for Hazel through everything. Becoming best friends first was what made their relationship strong. I absolutely loved this book. Their chemistry and love showed through the whole book. They changed and grew together! I can’t wait for book 2!!!!

Tropes:
❤️Small Town Romance
❤️Football Player
❤️Forced Proximity
❤️Fake Dating

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars!

I've liked Laura Pavlov's books in the past so I happily grabbed this ARC. She's an innkeeper in a small town, he's a NFL player. Some fake dating, good communication and willingness to solve problems - I liked it a lot!

I loved how the main characters seemed to really like each other and they became best friends before becoming lovers - that was so sweet!

I hope that the next part of the series will be released soon, I'm definitely going to read that!

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Pov: dual, 1st person
Heat: open doors
Pacing: slowburn
Communication: healthy communication
Third act: separation but not break up
Ending: HEA

Main characters:
* Alpha Hero
* Cinnamon roll hero
* City boy - small town girl
* Friends to lovers
* Millionaire

What?
* Dirty talk
* Forced proximity
* One night stand turned more
* Sports romance: football

Where?
* Small town

Drama?
* Impossible love

Other vibes:
* ”Touch her and die”

[Kel · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

**ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**

I really enjoyed this one! ❤️

I’m such a sucker for a good fake-dating romance, and this one was a lot of fun. Hazel and Maverick were so easy to root for, but what I really loved was the mutual respect and adoration they had for each other. There was something so refreshing about seeing two characters who genuinely liked, respected, and appreciated one another. The feelings felt just as important as the chemistry, and I loved watching their relationship develop.

And can we talk about Hazel’s mom? She was absolutely zany and hysterical and brought so much fun to the story. I loved the humor she added! Hazel's family dynamic, as a whole, added a lot to the story, along with some of the crazy townspeople. I can't wait to read more when she continues the series.

Between the fake dating, the swoony football player, and the small-town romance vibes, this was such an enjoyable read. Laura Pavlov gave me characters I wanted to root for and a romance that left me smiling.

A really fun, feel-good romance that I’d happily recommend to anyone who loves a good fake-dating story with plenty of heart!

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A new Laura Pavlov small town? I am there!! One Step Closer was the start to the Peachtree Lane Series and I am hooked!

“It’s just one step closer to forever, sunshine.”

Hazel Adams is focused on running the Peachtree Inn with her sister and has no interest in dating. After her last serious boyfriend cheated, she doesn’t feel the need to date. However, when the small town starts gossiping about that ex’s wedding and how Hazel really should get out there she is rescued by Maverick Storm.

The name of an adult film star, but actually a NFL quarterback, Maverick is in town to hide out and relax for the off season. Also has no interest in dating but interested in saving Hazel from the third degree.

“I’d followed her into oblivion. Because the truth was—I’d follow this girl anywhere.”

Hazel and Maverick were adorable with their fake relationship. They became fast best friends and their chemistry was hard to ignore (although they really tried). They were the perfect start to the series and I truly enjoyed every moment with them!

🔥: “Will you let me make you feel good, baby?”

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maverick is the quarterback for a NFL team and needs to get away from the city and a Super Bowl loss. Peachtree is a small town where he hopes to spend some time unnoticed as he heals his body and mind.

Hazel owns the Inn where he attempts to check in under a false name. She doesn’t know he’s a football star. She is also going through some hard times herself. Her former best friend and her ex boyfriend recently married and the whole town is worried about her.

Maverick overhears a conversation involving Hazel insisting she is doing just fine. He decides to “save” her from it and invites her to sit and have a drink with him. The next morning he invites her to breakfast and while walking to the restaurant, they run into her ex & former bestie. She asks him to please kiss her and he does 💕 enter the fake dating!

💚he immediately steps up to help her
🩷love the friendship they built
💚no third act breakup🎉
🩷love the small town
💚fake dating done right
🩷can’t wait for more of this series!

[Yukta · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
One Step Closer by Laura Pavlov 3.5/5 🌟


I really enjoyed ‘One Step Closer’! I’m a big fan of small-town romance and sports romance, so getting both in one book was pretty much perfect for me. I especially loved the fake-dating aspect and the way the relationship developed, with plenty of chemistry and those fun friends-to-lovers vibes.

I also loved the little terms of endearment between them, her calling him “lover” and him calling her “sunshine” was so cute! Their chemistry really carried the romance for me, and I enjoyed watching their relationship evolve throughout the story.

The one thing that didn’t quite work for me was the Gen Z-ification of the FMC. Some of her dialogue and mannerisms felt a little too much at times, and it took me out of the romance occasionally.

Overall, though, I really enjoyed this one and would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves small-town and sports romances with a fake-dating trope and plenty of chemistry!


Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an ARC of One Step Closer in exchange for an honest review!

[Mallory Moureau · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley, Montlake and Laura Pavlov for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

3.5⭐️ rounded up

Bubblegum romance. Sweet and a little cheesy (but in a fun way).

The meet cute was fun and I enjoyed the small town-ness where there was gossip but the main quirky one was the mom, not the entire town.

The ‘lover’ of it all was funny at first but got to be too much for me. Several reviews mention it seemed unnatural and that was the point, the FMC was using that as a nickname as a joke since they were fake dating.

I appreciated that our MMC wasn’t a player player prior to meeting the FMC, that was refreshing since so many professional players are depicted to be womanizers in these sports players and commoner tropes.

This was interesting in the fact that they had an instant connection and quickly started fake dating and being friends but didn’t actually get physical until much later so it was also a bit of a slow burn.

Quick read that I was able to complete in 24hrs.

[Jenn Book Ramblings · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Step Closer by Laura pavlov was such a cute first book in the brand new series titled Peachtree lane. I am a huge fan of Laura’s writing, so when I heard about a new series, I knew it was going to be a highly anticipated read of mine.

This book follows the main character, Hazel who owns and operates an Inn with her sister. Due to situations in her past, and men who have let her down, she has sworn off dating, and vows to be single. That is, until Maverick, a single, hot NFL player comes to town. What starts off as a situation, and fake relationship quickly turns into real feelings, complicating both of their lives for the better.

I loved Maverick!! He was such a good guy, who genuinely wanted to help Hazel, and be there to support her, and provide comfort. The fact that they became such good friends, before anything in their relationship progressed, showcased just how much they meant to one another, and valued each other as individuals.

This is a very strong start in a brand new series. I cannot wait to see where Laura takes the Peachtree family next.

[Ashley Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Thank you to NetGalley and Laura Pavlov for this gifted ARC in exchange for an honest and authentic review - All opinions are my own.*

This was the warm book hug I was looking for. Laura Pavlov’s writing is the perfect palate cleanser from any book. She is the queen of setting the small town scene, writing book boyfriends worth swooning over, and female leads you always root for!

Hazel and Maverick find each other due to the strangest of circumstances from failed Super Bowl and ex girlfriend drama and two cheating former friends no one wants to be reminded on in a small town. Together though, they become the most adorable couple!

My favourite part reading this book was watching such a genuine connection build between these two characters. No drama, no insta-lust (although present) but just liking who the other person is.

I liked the story, loved both characters, and can’t wait to see what else peachtree lane has to offer us!

[AnnaMeansFun · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s basically the safest book you’ll ever read, a delightful palate cleanser. No drama, no heavy stuff, just lots of great banter, good chemistry and responsible adults making sensible choices, while taking a chance on love.

It’s honestly one of the best books by Laura I’ve read in a while. The side characters were well developed, too, a whole array of personalities adding depth to the story.

While the themes seemed basic: rich city boy, sweet and wholesome small-town girl and fake relationship, the execution was actually unique and refreshing.

They found balance in the hopeless place, instead of sacrifice and I loved it.

The only thing somewhat missing for me was the proper ending. It felt more like HFN than the HEA and I wished we got a proper epilogue, maybe 10 years down the road so.

Nevertheless, this was a funny, lighthearted read and I can’t wait for the Sister of Darkness story next.

* Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this book *

[Haylee · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Step Closer was such a sweet and emotional small-town romance. I really enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters and the way their relationship slowly developed. There was plenty of tension, but also a softer side to their connection that made me root for them.

I especially liked the emotional journey throughout the story. Both characters had their own things to work through, and it was nice seeing them gradually become more open with each other. The small-town setting also added that cosy feeling I love in this type of romance.

There were a few moments where I felt the story dragged a little, and I wanted more development in certain parts, but it was still an easy and enjoyable read.

If you enjoy small-town romance, second chances, emotional characters, slow-burn chemistry, and plenty of heart, this was a lovely read.

[Jen Lindsey · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Maverick and Hazel were such a refreshing couple to read! Yes, there was drama pushing them together to concoct a fake dating plan which had karma coming hard for the wrong doers. They had undeniable chemistry; grand gestures are made and are so sweet, the quirky townspeople are hilarious and support our main characters, and the football family is wonderful.

They communicate with each other which helped them progress their fake relationship to the real deal. They helped each other see the best in themselves and rectify old insecurities. I loved their banter! However, Hazel’s mom and sister’s comments and antics plus the Peachtree’s gossip ring was pure gold!

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an arc of One Step Closer in exchange for an honest review. This is a sweet and quick read, and I absolutely loved the meaning behind the title.

[cakecoffeeandbooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

This was a quick, cute read!

Hazel owns an inn in the small town of Peachtree and meets Quarterback Maverick when he comes to stay in the off season. They begin fake dating and develop a really lovely friendship- I enjoyed seeing that grow and how well they got on- before releasing they both have real feelings for each other.

Both characters are very likeable and you can’t help but root for them. I loved how Maverick took care of Hazel, and how he seamlessly fitted into the small town and got to know many of the other residents too.

If you’re looking for a light, low angst read that will make you smile, this is perfect!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.

[Case · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is my first Laura Pavlov book after seeing her books recommended across my feed. Unfortunately, it wasn’t the right book for me, but the premise was cute, so if you enjoy her writing, I’m sure you’ll eat this right up.

I found the writing very simple and heavy on the tell. A lot of the sentences had the same “I did this, I thought this” structure, every action was explained in either unnecessary or no detail, and the dialogue often felt awkward and unnatural. The conflicts were pretty minor and easily solved, so the whole thing felt a little flat and lifeless to me. There were a few concepts I thought were funny, but overall I just don’t think I’m the right audience for this book.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for a copy of this book.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Pavlov is the queen of small town romance and happily ever afters, with ‘One Step Closer’ just proving this.

Hazel and Maverick are the perfect main characters - they’re sunshine and sunshine, both strong and independent but with a soft spot for the right people. It has friends to lovers feel, with the perfect amount of fake dating comedy.

All the points to Pavlov for not including an unnecessary third act break - this story was just a joy to read from start to finish.

I honestly loved every second of this book and I just want to give (almost) all the characters a big hug.

I cannot wait to head back to Peachtree Lane and read more about this wonderful town and hear some of the other stories.

Thank you NetGalley and Laura Pavlov for the ARC.