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Just One Night
Elle Davis doesn’t have boyfriends, she has temps.
She’s never wanted love and romance even though she makes a living planning weddings for New York’s elite. Her one-night rule has served her well—until her brother’s best friend comes crashing back into her life.
Greyson Turner thought he moved on after Elle ghosted him without a word two years ago, but when he meets her bright emerald eyes again, every feeling he’s ever had for her comes rushing back.
When Elle’s brother, Bennett, suddenly moves back to New York, Elle and Greyson are forced to set aside their messy past. As the pressure to support Bennett heats up, so does their relationship. He’s the only one she’s ever come close to breaking her rule for. She’s the one he can’t fully let go of no matter how hard he tries.
Will Elle relinquish her one-night rule? Or will one night be all they ever have?
She’s never wanted love and romance even though she makes a living planning weddings for New York’s elite. Her one-night rule has served her well—until her brother’s best friend comes crashing back into her life.
Greyson Turner thought he moved on after Elle ghosted him without a word two years ago, but when he meets her bright emerald eyes again, every feeling he’s ever had for her comes rushing back.
When Elle’s brother, Bennett, suddenly moves back to New York, Elle and Greyson are forced to set aside their messy past. As the pressure to support Bennett heats up, so does their relationship. He’s the only one she’s ever come close to breaking her rule for. She’s the one he can’t fully let go of no matter how hard he tries.
Will Elle relinquish her one-night rule? Or will one night be all they ever have?
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2026
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July 29, 2026
Tʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏ NᴇᴛGᴀʟʟᴇʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴜʙʟɪsʜᴇʀ ғᴏʀ ᴘʀᴏᴠɪᴅɪɴɢ ᴍᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴀɴ ᴀʀᴄ ɪɴ ᴇxᴄʜᴀɴɢᴇ ғᴏʀ ᴀɴ ʜᴏɴᴇsᴛ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ! ᥫ᭡
♥︎ ⤷ This was one of my favorite reads of the year and very first ARC review that received a 5 ⭐️ rating. Elle was a beautifully written FMC who desires to help couples with their dream weddings, however, chooses to live her life with “temps” instead of anything long term. As the reader understands certain hints of why Elle chooses this lifestyle…we then meet the MMC.
♥︎ ⤷ From the first encounter it’s easy for the reader to realize something occurred between the two and the slow-burn romance takes off right from there! I enjoyed that each chapter, some in the FMC and others in the MMC perspective, helped us to understand their history through flashbacks and constant close proximity scenes.
♥︎ ⤷ Personally, I enjoyed how realistic the book was. So many novels are written on unrealistic expectations of relationships, however, this author has mastered a technique that shows us how much our past and trauma cannot only hurt how we love others…but also hurt our mental health and what we believe we’re worth.
♥︎ ⤷ Absolute bonus points for the cover matching a scene within the book! I LOVED that I caught that reference. Also, what an epilogue?! Pure talent when I’m expecting to read another page and run into the Acknowledgments page!!
♥︎ ⤷ Friends, please add this to your TBR. It’s a slow-burn, low spice, comedic second chance romance that pulls you into a world of wanting to know more of their story.
♥︎ ⤷ This was one of my favorite reads of the year and very first ARC review that received a 5 ⭐️ rating. Elle was a beautifully written FMC who desires to help couples with their dream weddings, however, chooses to live her life with “temps” instead of anything long term. As the reader understands certain hints of why Elle chooses this lifestyle…we then meet the MMC.
♥︎ ⤷ From the first encounter it’s easy for the reader to realize something occurred between the two and the slow-burn romance takes off right from there! I enjoyed that each chapter, some in the FMC and others in the MMC perspective, helped us to understand their history through flashbacks and constant close proximity scenes.
♥︎ ⤷ Personally, I enjoyed how realistic the book was. So many novels are written on unrealistic expectations of relationships, however, this author has mastered a technique that shows us how much our past and trauma cannot only hurt how we love others…but also hurt our mental health and what we believe we’re worth.
♥︎ ⤷ Absolute bonus points for the cover matching a scene within the book! I LOVED that I caught that reference. Also, what an epilogue?! Pure talent when I’m expecting to read another page and run into the Acknowledgments page!!
♥︎ ⤷ Friends, please add this to your TBR. It’s a slow-burn, low spice, comedic second chance romance that pulls you into a world of wanting to know more of their story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2026
✨Brother’s best friend
✨Second chance romance
✨Forced proximity
✨Commitment-phobe falls hard
✨NYC romance
✨He never got over her
✨Emotionally guarded FMC
✨Brunch is sacred
A flirty, tension-filled NYC romance with all the angst and yearning you could want. Elle and Greyson’s chemistry is so good—full of witty banter, unresolved feelings, and that delicious “they’re absolutely not over each other” energy. I especially loved the theme of women being empowered to choose sexual freedom while still deserving softness, romance, and genuine connection. Sweet, messy, emotional, and undeniably fun, this is such a satisfying second-chance romance
✨Second chance romance
✨Forced proximity
✨Commitment-phobe falls hard
✨NYC romance
✨He never got over her
✨Emotionally guarded FMC
✨Brunch is sacred
A flirty, tension-filled NYC romance with all the angst and yearning you could want. Elle and Greyson’s chemistry is so good—full of witty banter, unresolved feelings, and that delicious “they’re absolutely not over each other” energy. I especially loved the theme of women being empowered to choose sexual freedom while still deserving softness, romance, and genuine connection. Sweet, messy, emotional, and undeniably fun, this is such a satisfying second-chance romance
May 1, 2026
Who would think that wedding planners don't believe in happily ever after? Let me introduce you to Elle Turner, someone with deep emotional scars and abandonment issues. When her older brother leaves for college, her father decides it's a good time to leave his wife, leaving Elle to pick up the pieces of her shattered mother. After that, she swears that she'll never allow someone close enough to cut her that deeply.
Sydney Devine did a fabulous job flipping the script and making the FMC the one-night-stand type instead of the MMC. Also, if you love brother-best-friend romances, this one's for you!
When Greyson Turner no longer sees Elle Davis as his best friend's little sister, he falls fast and hard. Unfortunately for him, she refuses to acknowledge the connection and is unwilling to break the rule that’s protected her from heartbreak, not even for him. With the realization that she’s on the verge of falling, Elle bolts in the opposite direction because nothing's worth the deep emotional devastation and invisible scars broken love leaves behind. Greyson tries to run her to ground, but she refuses to look back, effectively cutting him out of her life. With no say in their future, Greyson has no choice but to move on, always wondering why Elle shut him out completely and what could have been if she'd given them a chance.
Oh my heart, Just One Night took me on an emotional journey I’ll never forget. For those of you with triggers, I’ll warn you ahead of time that Greyson is in a relationship when he reenters Elle’s life. Sydney writes this part so well, and rest assured, no cheating happens, physical or emotional. And yes, emotional cheating is still cheating, and no one will convince me differently.
Just One Night is one of those stories that I’ll remember long after reading the final page.
Sydney Devine did a fabulous job flipping the script and making the FMC the one-night-stand type instead of the MMC. Also, if you love brother-best-friend romances, this one's for you!
When Greyson Turner no longer sees Elle Davis as his best friend's little sister, he falls fast and hard. Unfortunately for him, she refuses to acknowledge the connection and is unwilling to break the rule that’s protected her from heartbreak, not even for him. With the realization that she’s on the verge of falling, Elle bolts in the opposite direction because nothing's worth the deep emotional devastation and invisible scars broken love leaves behind. Greyson tries to run her to ground, but she refuses to look back, effectively cutting him out of her life. With no say in their future, Greyson has no choice but to move on, always wondering why Elle shut him out completely and what could have been if she'd given them a chance.
Oh my heart, Just One Night took me on an emotional journey I’ll never forget. For those of you with triggers, I’ll warn you ahead of time that Greyson is in a relationship when he reenters Elle’s life. Sydney writes this part so well, and rest assured, no cheating happens, physical or emotional. And yes, emotional cheating is still cheating, and no one will convince me differently.
Just One Night is one of those stories that I’ll remember long after reading the final page.
May 6, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WOW. Just One Night completely pulled me in from the very first page. As someone who has been a lifelong reader but is still fairly new to publicly reviewing books, especially ARCs, I don’t take sharing my thoughts lightly. That said, Sydney absolutely delivered with my very first ARC experience.
This book was incredibly well written, and I genuinely could not put it down. I finished it in less than 24 hours because I was so invested in the story and the characters. What stood out to me most was the emotional depth from the very beginning. The characters felt messy, flawed, realistic, and deeply relatable in the best way.
Elle especially resonated with me. Her instinct to protect the people she loves, even when it means carrying the pain herself, felt incredibly real. You could feel her internal struggle throughout the book. Wanting to let people in while convincing herself she couldn’t, it made my heart ache for her more than once.
This story had the perfect balance of emotion, character growth, and romance. By the end, I was completely attached to these characters and honestly not ready to let them go. I’m already hoping for a second book because I need more of them in my life.
I cannot wait for everyone else to experience this one when it debuts on August 20th. Definitely mark your calendars for this release!
WOW. Just One Night completely pulled me in from the very first page. As someone who has been a lifelong reader but is still fairly new to publicly reviewing books, especially ARCs, I don’t take sharing my thoughts lightly. That said, Sydney absolutely delivered with my very first ARC experience.
This book was incredibly well written, and I genuinely could not put it down. I finished it in less than 24 hours because I was so invested in the story and the characters. What stood out to me most was the emotional depth from the very beginning. The characters felt messy, flawed, realistic, and deeply relatable in the best way.
Elle especially resonated with me. Her instinct to protect the people she loves, even when it means carrying the pain herself, felt incredibly real. You could feel her internal struggle throughout the book. Wanting to let people in while convincing herself she couldn’t, it made my heart ache for her more than once.
This story had the perfect balance of emotion, character growth, and romance. By the end, I was completely attached to these characters and honestly not ready to let them go. I’m already hoping for a second book because I need more of them in my life.
I cannot wait for everyone else to experience this one when it debuts on August 20th. Definitely mark your calendars for this release!
September 14, 2026
Omph. This poor FMC spent her whole life being let down by people that were supposed to love her. The patience and love that the MMC showed and never gave up on her had me emotional. I honestly had to set this book down and come back to it later at a couple points just because my heart hurt for her. There were plot points that had red flags waving so high you could see them coming from a mile away but couldn't look away from the train wreck that was happening. I need the HEA that this ended with after all the emotions I was put through reading this.
❤️ Tropes ❤️
💋 Best Friend's Little Sister
💋 Second Chance Romance
💋 FMC who doesn't date
💋 He Falls First
💋 Forced Proximity
💋 It Was Always You
Elle didn't have finding her brother on her doorstep with all of his belongings in suitcases on her bingo card. It should have been no surprise that he wanted to have dinner with his best friend and his little sister now that he was in New York instead of California. But he doesn't know about that night two years ago, and how Elle has been actively avoiding Grayson ever since. And since she isn't going to inform him of it, she is just going to have to tolerate his presence for her brother's sake.
Thank you to Literary Media Tours for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
❤️ Tropes ❤️
💋 Best Friend's Little Sister
💋 Second Chance Romance
💋 FMC who doesn't date
💋 He Falls First
💋 Forced Proximity
💋 It Was Always You
Elle didn't have finding her brother on her doorstep with all of his belongings in suitcases on her bingo card. It should have been no surprise that he wanted to have dinner with his best friend and his little sister now that he was in New York instead of California. But he doesn't know about that night two years ago, and how Elle has been actively avoiding Grayson ever since. And since she isn't going to inform him of it, she is just going to have to tolerate his presence for her brother's sake.
Thank you to Literary Media Tours for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
August 1, 2026
a delightful debut contemporary romance
This is such an enjoyable read. I love a book that sends me through a whole circuit of emotions while reading it. This is a slow-building story that leaves a trail of breadcrumbs to lead you to each reveal. The story focuses on Elle, a wedding planner who doesn’t believe in love and is set in her one-night-stand, no-strings, brunch-on-the-weekends-with-her-bestie lifestyle—until her brother comes to crash on her couch with some news. With her brother around, it is impossible to avoid his best friend, Greyson, who she’s been ghosting… for a variety of reasons. As more is revealed, this story unpacks themes of divorce, parental death, parental abandonment, and so many flavors of grief, while somehow still remaining a rom-com. Finding levity while discussing difficult topics is a unique skill, and it is exhibited tremendously here.
The chemistry between the characters is so delightful. I adored best friend Kate and her interactions with the entire group: Elle, her brother Bennett, and Bennett’s best friend, Greyson. Kate and Elle at brunch is an entire mood. Some of their interactions had me cackling, and some made me miss having a best friend who would come cuddle and help me pick out an outfit. Let’s be honest, there were moments when I wanted to climb inside this book to spend time with these people. I love this cast of imperfect characters, but most of all, I adored how hard Greyson falls. Gotta love a guy who fawns.
This book was everything I wanted it to be and even a little bit more. As previously mentioned, it caused me to feel all the feels and find myself a new book boyfriend. I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for a rom-com with some depth and a side of emotional trauma.
This is such an enjoyable read. I love a book that sends me through a whole circuit of emotions while reading it. This is a slow-building story that leaves a trail of breadcrumbs to lead you to each reveal. The story focuses on Elle, a wedding planner who doesn’t believe in love and is set in her one-night-stand, no-strings, brunch-on-the-weekends-with-her-bestie lifestyle—until her brother comes to crash on her couch with some news. With her brother around, it is impossible to avoid his best friend, Greyson, who she’s been ghosting… for a variety of reasons. As more is revealed, this story unpacks themes of divorce, parental death, parental abandonment, and so many flavors of grief, while somehow still remaining a rom-com. Finding levity while discussing difficult topics is a unique skill, and it is exhibited tremendously here.
The chemistry between the characters is so delightful. I adored best friend Kate and her interactions with the entire group: Elle, her brother Bennett, and Bennett’s best friend, Greyson. Kate and Elle at brunch is an entire mood. Some of their interactions had me cackling, and some made me miss having a best friend who would come cuddle and help me pick out an outfit. Let’s be honest, there were moments when I wanted to climb inside this book to spend time with these people. I love this cast of imperfect characters, but most of all, I adored how hard Greyson falls. Gotta love a guy who fawns.
This book was everything I wanted it to be and even a little bit more. As previously mentioned, it caused me to feel all the feels and find myself a new book boyfriend. I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for a rom-com with some depth and a side of emotional trauma.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sometimes I pick up a book and within moments I realize it has captured something deep inside me.
Just One Night is that book.
The kind of story that completely consumes me while I’m reading it…
and then refuses to let me go long after I’ve turned the final page.
I didn’t just enjoy this book.
I lived inside it.
I could reread this story five times and still crave more. I would happily devour an entire second book about these characters because letting them go honestly feels impossible.
Greyson.
Sexy. Successful. Entirely gone for his best friend’s sister for years.
The one woman who ran away and shattered his heart anyway.
And Elle?
She believes there’s no such thing as a walk of shame — only a walk of fame — because no woman should ever feel ashamed of owning her sexuality.
She doesn’t believe in love.
So why can’t she stop thinking about Greyson?
These characters felt achingly real to me.
Their longing. Their heartbreak. Their chemistry. Their joy.
Every emotion was written with such elegance and honesty that I felt it all deep in my bones.
The dialogue flows effortlessly.
The tension simmers constantly.
And the emotional connection between these characters absolutely wrecked me.
I fell head over heels in love with this story.
And when I reached the moment illustrated on the cover?
I actually cried.
That scene hit me with this overwhelming mixture of tenderness, healing, love, and heartbreak all at once. One of those rare moments where fiction stops feeling fictional.
This book was everything I want from romance.
Beautifully written.
Deeply emotional.
Completely unforgettable.
The kind of story that makes rating systems feel inadequate because five stars simply doesn’t come close to expressing what this book made me feel.
⭐️∞
✨ Brother’s best friend
✨ He falls first
✨ Second chances
✨ “Temps”
✨ Brunch is sacred
I received an advanced copy of this book. My opinions are my own and my review is completely honest.
Just One Night is that book.
The kind of story that completely consumes me while I’m reading it…
and then refuses to let me go long after I’ve turned the final page.
I didn’t just enjoy this book.
I lived inside it.
I could reread this story five times and still crave more. I would happily devour an entire second book about these characters because letting them go honestly feels impossible.
Greyson.
Sexy. Successful. Entirely gone for his best friend’s sister for years.
The one woman who ran away and shattered his heart anyway.
And Elle?
She believes there’s no such thing as a walk of shame — only a walk of fame — because no woman should ever feel ashamed of owning her sexuality.
She doesn’t believe in love.
So why can’t she stop thinking about Greyson?
These characters felt achingly real to me.
Their longing. Their heartbreak. Their chemistry. Their joy.
Every emotion was written with such elegance and honesty that I felt it all deep in my bones.
The dialogue flows effortlessly.
The tension simmers constantly.
And the emotional connection between these characters absolutely wrecked me.
I fell head over heels in love with this story.
And when I reached the moment illustrated on the cover?
I actually cried.
That scene hit me with this overwhelming mixture of tenderness, healing, love, and heartbreak all at once. One of those rare moments where fiction stops feeling fictional.
This book was everything I want from romance.
Beautifully written.
Deeply emotional.
Completely unforgettable.
The kind of story that makes rating systems feel inadequate because five stars simply doesn’t come close to expressing what this book made me feel.
⭐️∞
✨ Brother’s best friend
✨ He falls first
✨ Second chances
✨ “Temps”
✨ Brunch is sacred
I received an advanced copy of this book. My opinions are my own and my review is completely honest.
August 22, 2026
Just One Night by Sydney Devine was such an emotional, angsty, and swoony second chance romance! This debut completely pulled me in with the brother’s best friend trope, years of yearning, forced proximity, and a MMC who falls hard.
Elle Davis is a successful wedding planner who ironically wants absolutely nothing to do with happily ever afters. After watching her mom crumble when he father left, she built her life around one simple rule: one night, no strings, no relationships.
Then there’s Greyson Turner, her brother’s best friend and the one man who has always been different. He’s never truly gotten over Elle, even after she walked away from him two years ago. When they’re thrown back together, all those old feelings come rushing back, and Greyson is determined to show Elle that love doesn't have to end in heartbreak.
I absolutely loved Greyson! He is the definition of he falls first and falls HARD. The way he patiently loves Elle, supports her, and continues choosing her even when she pushes him away completely melted my heart.
The chemistry between these two was EVERYTHING. The tension, the yearning, the history between them, it all felt so intense. I loved the flashbacks and getting to see pieces of their past while watching everything unfold in the present. It made their connection feel so much deeper.
I also really enjoyed the family and friendship dynamics woven throughout the story. There were moments that had me laughing, moments that broke my heart, and plenty where I wanted to yell at Elle to JUST LET THIS MAN LOVE YOU ALREADY!
Elle Davis is a successful wedding planner who ironically wants absolutely nothing to do with happily ever afters. After watching her mom crumble when he father left, she built her life around one simple rule: one night, no strings, no relationships.
Then there’s Greyson Turner, her brother’s best friend and the one man who has always been different. He’s never truly gotten over Elle, even after she walked away from him two years ago. When they’re thrown back together, all those old feelings come rushing back, and Greyson is determined to show Elle that love doesn't have to end in heartbreak.
I absolutely loved Greyson! He is the definition of he falls first and falls HARD. The way he patiently loves Elle, supports her, and continues choosing her even when she pushes him away completely melted my heart.
The chemistry between these two was EVERYTHING. The tension, the yearning, the history between them, it all felt so intense. I loved the flashbacks and getting to see pieces of their past while watching everything unfold in the present. It made their connection feel so much deeper.
I also really enjoyed the family and friendship dynamics woven throughout the story. There were moments that had me laughing, moments that broke my heart, and plenty where I wanted to yell at Elle to JUST LET THIS MAN LOVE YOU ALREADY!
August 13, 2026
What a fun read, I really enjoyed this one!! I am a huge fan of second chance romance and this one did not disappoint. There was so much yearning and angst between the two main characters leading to some amazing tension filled scenes. I especially loved the first half of the book. Slowly learning about our characters and their past with each other with some flashbacks, while getting the tension between them in present day. I also loved the New York City setting 🌃
Elle was a good character even though I had my issues with her. But Greyson omg, such an amazing MMC I was obsessed 😍. The side characters especially Elle’s brother, Bennett were also great and added a lot to the story. I could have sworn I was getting vibes on another romance but nothing came of it, maybe in another book?!
It started to drag out a little bit by the end, but I was so happy when her and Bennett FINALLY communicated and hashed out some of their issues!! And that epilogue was so sweet.
Definitely read this one if you are a fan of second chance romance, angst, yearning, brothers best friend, New York setting!! Thank you so much to NetGalley and Sydney Devine for this eARC 🥰🫶🏻
Elle was a good character even though I had my issues with her. But Greyson omg, such an amazing MMC I was obsessed 😍. The side characters especially Elle’s brother, Bennett were also great and added a lot to the story. I could have sworn I was getting vibes on another romance but nothing came of it, maybe in another book?!
It started to drag out a little bit by the end, but I was so happy when her and Bennett FINALLY communicated and hashed out some of their issues!! And that epilogue was so sweet.
Definitely read this one if you are a fan of second chance romance, angst, yearning, brothers best friend, New York setting!! Thank you so much to NetGalley and Sydney Devine for this eARC 🥰🫶🏻
August 21, 2026
Thank you to author Sydney Devine and Literary Media Tours for the arc of Just One Night! Elle and Greyson were truly meant to be! I love that Elle is a very complex character who has had a very challenging life especially while caregiving for her mother and I’m so glad Greyson is the person she confides in years ago and now in the present. Even though there is quite a lot of miscommunication and frustration between these two, their HEA feels so worth it especially because it’s so satisfying. I truly rooted for these two! I can’t wait to read what Sydney Devine writes next!
May 5, 2026
Meet Elle Davis—she doesn’t do boyfriends… she does temps.
She plans weddings for New York’s elite but has zero interest in love herself. Her one-night rule has always worked—until her brother’s best friend comes crashing back into her life 👀
Greyson Turner thought he moved on after Elle ghosted him… but the second he sees her again? Yeah, those feelings never left.
Now with her brother Bennett back in NYC, Elle and Greyson are forced back into each other’s orbit—and let’s just say… the tension is VERY real.
💔 Brother’s best friend 🔥 Second chance tension ✨ One-night rule vs. real feelings 🫂 Grief & healing 💅 Ride-or-die friendships
OKAY—let’s talk about it:
Elle is FLAWED. Like… sometimes I wanted to be her, and other times I wanted to yell at her. But her trauma? It makes sense. It layers her in a way that makes her feel so real and human. You get why she is the way she is.
GREYSON. In sweatpants. That’s it. That’s the review. IYKYK 😮🔥
But honestly?? KATE IS THE REAL STAR. She is the definition of ride-or-die, and her friendship with Elle was EVERYTHING. Female friendships do NOT get enough spotlight, and this one?? So well done. Brunch = sacred, obviously.
This book had me yelling “NO NO NO” (yes, even at Sydney 😂) and then immediately cheering the next chapter.
And something this book handled so well—grief. The kind that leaves a hole. The guilt, the blame, the way it lingers. You don’t see that explored deeply in romance enough, and this story did it beautifully.
Sibling dynamics. Friendship. Loss. Healing. This book is MULTITUDES—and it balances it all so well. “My pettiness is unmatched.” — I’m still not over it 💀
And now I’m here screaming: 📣 BOOK TWO. BOOK TWO. BOOK TWO.
She plans weddings for New York’s elite but has zero interest in love herself. Her one-night rule has always worked—until her brother’s best friend comes crashing back into her life 👀
Greyson Turner thought he moved on after Elle ghosted him… but the second he sees her again? Yeah, those feelings never left.
Now with her brother Bennett back in NYC, Elle and Greyson are forced back into each other’s orbit—and let’s just say… the tension is VERY real.
💔 Brother’s best friend 🔥 Second chance tension ✨ One-night rule vs. real feelings 🫂 Grief & healing 💅 Ride-or-die friendships
OKAY—let’s talk about it:
Elle is FLAWED. Like… sometimes I wanted to be her, and other times I wanted to yell at her. But her trauma? It makes sense. It layers her in a way that makes her feel so real and human. You get why she is the way she is.
GREYSON. In sweatpants. That’s it. That’s the review. IYKYK 😮🔥
But honestly?? KATE IS THE REAL STAR. She is the definition of ride-or-die, and her friendship with Elle was EVERYTHING. Female friendships do NOT get enough spotlight, and this one?? So well done. Brunch = sacred, obviously.
This book had me yelling “NO NO NO” (yes, even at Sydney 😂) and then immediately cheering the next chapter.
And something this book handled so well—grief. The kind that leaves a hole. The guilt, the blame, the way it lingers. You don’t see that explored deeply in romance enough, and this story did it beautifully.
Sibling dynamics. Friendship. Loss. Healing. This book is MULTITUDES—and it balances it all so well. “My pettiness is unmatched.” — I’m still not over it 💀
And now I’m here screaming: 📣 BOOK TWO. BOOK TWO. BOOK TWO.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2026
“Maybe part of the beauty of falling in love is the trust that comes with it…”
Just One Night is a debut romance that hits all the major elements someone could want in a rom com. It has all the best tropes including: brother’s best friend, friends to lovers, second chance romance, years of yearning, he falls SO hard and the perfect amount of spice.
While this story is a rom com, it also explores the subject of trust and dealing with grief. Elle Davis has experienced some serious trauma and as a result, is steadfast in her one night only rule and absolutely refuses to have boyfriends. There were some points during the book when her attitude and beliefs absolutely enraged me because I couldn’t personally relate. But isn’t that the beauty of a great story when it can give us the opportunity to see the world through someone else’s eyes?
Overall, this was an excellent debut romance novel that gave me everything I was hoping for!
Just One Night is a debut romance that hits all the major elements someone could want in a rom com. It has all the best tropes including: brother’s best friend, friends to lovers, second chance romance, years of yearning, he falls SO hard and the perfect amount of spice.
While this story is a rom com, it also explores the subject of trust and dealing with grief. Elle Davis has experienced some serious trauma and as a result, is steadfast in her one night only rule and absolutely refuses to have boyfriends. There were some points during the book when her attitude and beliefs absolutely enraged me because I couldn’t personally relate. But isn’t that the beauty of a great story when it can give us the opportunity to see the world through someone else’s eyes?
Overall, this was an excellent debut romance novel that gave me everything I was hoping for!
May 23, 2026
Wow! Sydney Devine milked emotion from me during this book with such graceful elegance that I didn't know I was crying in some spots until I tasted tears. Amazing characters you just want to love and be best friends with. I wasn't sure if the characters were going to make it in the end, and Sydney had me biting my nails the entire time waiting for the magic to finally happen! And when it did! **chef's kiss**
I'd like to thank the author and Literary Media Tours for the great honor of being able to read this book. Thank you!
I'd like to thank the author and Literary Media Tours for the great honor of being able to read this book. Thank you!
August 20, 2026
If you are an emotionally passionate reader who talks to your books, Just One Night, Author Sydney Devine’s debut novel, will have you doing so from beginning to end. And it wasn’t just the main characters, Elle and Greyson; Elle’s brother, Bennett, got a few hrumphs from me as well.
Elle, this poor girl, has been carrying so much trauma, believing she was not meant for relationships. She has this “one night rule” which prevents her from getting hurt. I’m a drama reader. That is, I love all the drama—bring it on. And Sydney brought it. I was flipping through the pages wanting to know what Greyson was going to do and for how long. Was Elle going to flex with her “one night rule”? And I do want to know more about Elle’s brother Bennett. This guy was going through some serious stuff, and I would love to see him with a HEA.
It was incredibly refreshing to read about a character like Elle. I liked Sydney's shmex positive message and how she portrayed Elle’s character as not feeling ashamed.
Thank you to Literary Media Tours and Author Sydney Devine for the gifted copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Elle, this poor girl, has been carrying so much trauma, believing she was not meant for relationships. She has this “one night rule” which prevents her from getting hurt. I’m a drama reader. That is, I love all the drama—bring it on. And Sydney brought it. I was flipping through the pages wanting to know what Greyson was going to do and for how long. Was Elle going to flex with her “one night rule”? And I do want to know more about Elle’s brother Bennett. This guy was going through some serious stuff, and I would love to see him with a HEA.
It was incredibly refreshing to read about a character like Elle. I liked Sydney's shmex positive message and how she portrayed Elle’s character as not feeling ashamed.
Thank you to Literary Media Tours and Author Sydney Devine for the gifted copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 8, 2026
✨ ARC Review ✨
I loved the premise of this one, but I found myself wishing the “one-night stand” rule was rooted more in choice and empowerment and less in a trauma response. I spent a good portion of the book thinking, Elle needs therapy. It was a struggle.
I loved the side characters and how they supported Elle. I was grateful for those interactions (and secretly hoped for some side plots that did’t happen).
The angst between Greyson and Elle led to some spicy scenes. So those who look for that in their romances should be happy here.
Overall, it’s an interesting premise with strong emotionally driven characters. It just didn’t quite land the way I hoped it would.
I loved the premise of this one, but I found myself wishing the “one-night stand” rule was rooted more in choice and empowerment and less in a trauma response. I spent a good portion of the book thinking, Elle needs therapy. It was a struggle.
I loved the side characters and how they supported Elle. I was grateful for those interactions (and secretly hoped for some side plots that did’t happen).
The angst between Greyson and Elle led to some spicy scenes. So those who look for that in their romances should be happy here.
Overall, it’s an interesting premise with strong emotionally driven characters. It just didn’t quite land the way I hoped it would.
August 18, 2026
This was a solid 3 star read!
A wedding planner that believes in one night stands but not the ultimate commitment? And an FMC? That was a nice twist.
While I enjoyed the characters, storyline, the witty banter, and the emotional aspect, this one just fell a little flat for me. I really wanted to be drawn in more & fully invested in the characters.
Thank you to NetGalley for this advanced reader copy!
A wedding planner that believes in one night stands but not the ultimate commitment? And an FMC? That was a nice twist.
While I enjoyed the characters, storyline, the witty banter, and the emotional aspect, this one just fell a little flat for me. I really wanted to be drawn in more & fully invested in the characters.
Thank you to NetGalley for this advanced reader copy!
September 8, 2026
I have enjoyed this book so freaking much.
I was hooked from the very beginning of it and I couldn't help it but root for Elle and Grayson. This novel is an incredible balance of romance, character growth and emorions. The chemistry Elle and Grayson share is wow, just wow.
I kinda hope to have a book 2 with Bennet and Kate, there were a few things Bennet said here and there that made me think so, and he kinda deserves it.
I was hooked from the very beginning of it and I couldn't help it but root for Elle and Grayson. This novel is an incredible balance of romance, character growth and emorions. The chemistry Elle and Grayson share is wow, just wow.
I kinda hope to have a book 2 with Bennet and Kate, there were a few things Bennet said here and there that made me think so, and he kinda deserves it.
August 26, 2026
Finished in two days was such a fun, addicting read! Took you on an emotional roller coaster between laughing and crying. Loved all the banter and great depth to the characters. Definitely recommend!
July 30, 2026
Absolutely adored this book! I am so proud of you Sydney! This book was just so cute. Emotional and fun! I loved the side characters as much as the main characters and I already can’t wait to see what you come up with next
May 16, 2026
I had the honor to read this as an ARC and I LOVED IT. I was obsessed and could not put it down! I would say it was a bit of an emotional roller coaster but I powered through and enjoyed every second of it :)
Slow burn, brothers best friend, ride or die best friend, everything you could need all written amazingly!!
Slow burn, brothers best friend, ride or die best friend, everything you could need all written amazingly!!
August 25, 2026
Don’t miss this fantastic debut! Wow! I couldn’t put it down.
Pick this up if you like:
✨ Friends to lovers
✨ Brother’s best friend
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Second chances
This book is so good - the characters are messy (and relatable), the dialog shines, and the pages fly by. The dual timeline and the dual narration work together to keep the story moving forward while giving glimpses into their history as Elle and Greyson find themselves back in each other’s orbit.
Is love worth the risk? Don’t miss this one and find out! (And I can’t wait to see what Ms. Devine writes next!)
Pick this up if you like:
✨ Friends to lovers
✨ Brother’s best friend
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Second chances
This book is so good - the characters are messy (and relatable), the dialog shines, and the pages fly by. The dual timeline and the dual narration work together to keep the story moving forward while giving glimpses into their history as Elle and Greyson find themselves back in each other’s orbit.
Is love worth the risk? Don’t miss this one and find out! (And I can’t wait to see what Ms. Devine writes next!)
June 15, 2026
I did an ARC read of this book and I really enjoyed the story line of found family and learning to trust again. It felt like a slow burn for sure between Elle and Grayson. Sydney Device really wrote this book so well, it kept me hooked!
August 16, 2026
Just One Night was such a wonderful story. Sydney’s writing was absolutely captivating and had me constantly hanging on to her words. I love the characters she created and the story she told. I really enjoyed most everything about this book. Second Chance is not normally my favorite trope to read, but I really loved the perspective this book took it in the sense they were never really more than friends, yet their time together was so profound they never had a chance.
This book is a brother’s best friend, somewhat second chance romance that had me captivated the entire time. I love brother’s best friend and Greyson was a dream. He was so thoughtful and patient. He definitely made the book for me. I really enjoyed his and Bennet’s friendship as well as his and Elle’s friendship. Elle was such a headstrong character who was a little more hit or miss for me. I really loved her as a whole, however she definitely needs some major therapy. I did find myself getting irritated with how much she was pushing Greyson away. Do I understand where that was coming from? Absolutely. I know she’s had a lot of trauma from her parents divorcing and more recently with her brother, so the confirmation bias is there. I’m just thankful she has a really great support system around her. I also really loved all the side characters. They truly added so much to the story for me.
Overall, Sydney’s writing drew me in from the start. She crafts excellent characters and wrote a really compelling story. I really enjoyed the book and can’t wait to see what she comes up with next! Thanks Netgalley for an earc. All opinions are my own.
This book is a brother’s best friend, somewhat second chance romance that had me captivated the entire time. I love brother’s best friend and Greyson was a dream. He was so thoughtful and patient. He definitely made the book for me. I really enjoyed his and Bennet’s friendship as well as his and Elle’s friendship. Elle was such a headstrong character who was a little more hit or miss for me. I really loved her as a whole, however she definitely needs some major therapy. I did find myself getting irritated with how much she was pushing Greyson away. Do I understand where that was coming from? Absolutely. I know she’s had a lot of trauma from her parents divorcing and more recently with her brother, so the confirmation bias is there. I’m just thankful she has a really great support system around her. I also really loved all the side characters. They truly added so much to the story for me.
Overall, Sydney’s writing drew me in from the start. She crafts excellent characters and wrote a really compelling story. I really enjoyed the book and can’t wait to see what she comes up with next! Thanks Netgalley for an earc. All opinions are my own.
August 18, 2026
Thank you to the author and Literary Media Tours for an eARC!!
4.5
This was fantastic. There was so much angst. I'm always here for a brother's best friend romance and this one did not disappoint.
I absolutely loved the flashbacks. Instead of just being told what happened in the past between Greyson and Elle, we were shown on page. It was really well done and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Greyson is an amazing character. Elle is strong and independent and hell bent on not being in a relationship. I didn't really love how she treated Greyson and her brother at the start of the book, but she grew as a character throughout the story. I really enjoyed watching Greyson slowly and patiently break down her walls.
The scene that happened at the end during her last client meeting, had me in tears. My goodness, my heart was breaking for Elle during and after that scene, but it did give us lots of perspective.
The side characters added so much to the story. They really played a main part in both main characters life and I really enjoyed all the interactions with them!
If you love a second chance, brother's best friend romance with a lot of tension and angst where he falls first, you should pick this up when it comes out on August 20th!
August 24, 2026
Elle Davis doesn’t believe in love or relationships after the trauma of her parent’s awful divorce when she was young. He father left her mom for his very young secretary who he knocked up and immediately married once the ink of the divorce papers was dry. She then watched her mother fade from her broken heart into alcoholism and eventually pills. She swore off love and enforced a one night only rule regarding all men.
Her older brother was away at college in L.A. where he met his wife Mara, whom he married right after graduation. Elle hates Mara, she kept that and so much about their mom from her brother Bennett. When Bennett shows up at her apartment in NYC and tells her he is moving back and got a job working with his best friend at his family’s law firm under their CFO Elle is immediately suspicious.
She and Greyson, Bennett’s bestie have their own past. While they never hooked up, mostly due to Elle’s one night only rule since she swore off love and relationships, they were very emotionally invested in one another. Until two years ago when Elle ghosted Greyson after they shared an emotionally vulnerable weekend after her mother’s death. He confessed he wanted more with her & she realized she did too, that scared her so much she ran. Her trauma from her parent’s divorce causes her to run from him multiple times. He keeps chasing though.
After Bennett’s return, divulging he and Mara are divorcing due to her cheating on him, Elle gets roped into being the wedding planner for a couple that turns out to be Greyson’s girlfriend’s sister. Through their forced interactions from Bennett and seeing him with Lauren for wedding planning he realizes he isn’t over Elle & Elle realizes she didn’t bury her feelings for him as deep as she thought. Greyson ends things with Lauren and tells her the truth that he never fell out of love with Elle. She takes it as well as possible but gets him to agree to attend her sister’s engagement party with her. He and Elle really begin to spend time together and kiss multiple times. Lauren of course makes a huge scene at the engagement party and it does not end well. Elle is fired as the wedding planner but she and Greyson decide to really give it a go, without labels, one night at a time.
Just as everything starts to go right we of course need the source of the trauma to rear its ugly head so Elle can get sucked into her b.s. and push Greyson away & he can walk away. Thank god for his mom giving him the business & Elle’s boss calling her brother so she can finally tell him all the things she hid from him about their mom. It was such a cathartic moment. I’m glad that they all got through it but DANG it took til 93% for her to get it together. We get a HEA and hoo boy was it hard earned!
I loved & hated Elle-she is so loyal to her people and feisty but damn did girl need therapy! Same with Bennett, that man needs help. Also is it just me or do he and Kate seem like they’re gonna happen?? Greyson was just so good and patient. I’m glad he had some well deserved anger for Elle because otherwise he would’ve been too perfect. They had some great spice and I honestly am excited to see what else will happen in this world with Kate, Bennett, & maybe even some more folks. Really enjoyed this debut from the author!
Her older brother was away at college in L.A. where he met his wife Mara, whom he married right after graduation. Elle hates Mara, she kept that and so much about their mom from her brother Bennett. When Bennett shows up at her apartment in NYC and tells her he is moving back and got a job working with his best friend at his family’s law firm under their CFO Elle is immediately suspicious.
She and Greyson, Bennett’s bestie have their own past. While they never hooked up, mostly due to Elle’s one night only rule since she swore off love and relationships, they were very emotionally invested in one another. Until two years ago when Elle ghosted Greyson after they shared an emotionally vulnerable weekend after her mother’s death. He confessed he wanted more with her & she realized she did too, that scared her so much she ran. Her trauma from her parent’s divorce causes her to run from him multiple times. He keeps chasing though.
After Bennett’s return, divulging he and Mara are divorcing due to her cheating on him, Elle gets roped into being the wedding planner for a couple that turns out to be Greyson’s girlfriend’s sister. Through their forced interactions from Bennett and seeing him with Lauren for wedding planning he realizes he isn’t over Elle & Elle realizes she didn’t bury her feelings for him as deep as she thought. Greyson ends things with Lauren and tells her the truth that he never fell out of love with Elle. She takes it as well as possible but gets him to agree to attend her sister’s engagement party with her. He and Elle really begin to spend time together and kiss multiple times. Lauren of course makes a huge scene at the engagement party and it does not end well. Elle is fired as the wedding planner but she and Greyson decide to really give it a go, without labels, one night at a time.
Just as everything starts to go right we of course need the source of the trauma to rear its ugly head so Elle can get sucked into her b.s. and push Greyson away & he can walk away. Thank god for his mom giving him the business & Elle’s boss calling her brother so she can finally tell him all the things she hid from him about their mom. It was such a cathartic moment. I’m glad that they all got through it but DANG it took til 93% for her to get it together. We get a HEA and hoo boy was it hard earned!
I loved & hated Elle-she is so loyal to her people and feisty but damn did girl need therapy! Same with Bennett, that man needs help. Also is it just me or do he and Kate seem like they’re gonna happen?? Greyson was just so good and patient. I’m glad he had some well deserved anger for Elle because otherwise he would’ve been too perfect. They had some great spice and I honestly am excited to see what else will happen in this world with Kate, Bennett, & maybe even some more folks. Really enjoyed this debut from the author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Just one night
Greyson and Elle.
She’s the off limits little sister, he’s her older brother’s best friend.
These two are gonna need more then just one night to figure out what it is exactly
They want and need. There is one thing for certain grey and Elle have always Been it for one another, time was just not on their side.
They were Childhood friends turn to adult best friends,then to two years of nothing and no communication. Elle has not had the best example of a loving committed relationship which then led her to the just one night rule no more beyond that with any man because it means commitment and a real relationship(she’s a bit of mess a little uncanny) she can’t have that not after what she has seen and experienced. Well that’s until her heart wants what it has always wanted enters Greyson.
Greyson fell in love with his best friend’s little sister who became his best friend. He loved her even though he knows she has a one night only rule. He wanted more nights and days but would take it in any form as long as he would be around Elle. Better to be her best friend than nothing at all. One night of cuddling, talking and being completely vulnerable was all Elle could bear she needed right then she couldn’t have grey the way he wanted to have her. Two years later no word or contract and then out of the blue there Elle was in front of the man she couldn’t deny had her heart. Just one night was so good. I loved Elle and Greys story. I will admit I think Elle was a bit unhinged with her rule and was in the hot mess express. I also couldn’t stand the Lauren character maybe it’s me personally. She was just a jerk and I seen her in bad light even if things were not written I could sense she was one of those gals that wants to be perfect and will do what it takes and not care whom she hurts! But nonetheless it was a good read. I can’t wait to see if there is fallow up book I want to see what happens with Bennett and Kate or maybe there will be two follow up books but none the less I would definitely recommend and say to put just one night on your TBR.
⭐️/4.5 stars
🌶️/2 on the spice level.
Greyson and Elle.
She’s the off limits little sister, he’s her older brother’s best friend.
These two are gonna need more then just one night to figure out what it is exactly
They want and need. There is one thing for certain grey and Elle have always Been it for one another, time was just not on their side.
They were Childhood friends turn to adult best friends,then to two years of nothing and no communication. Elle has not had the best example of a loving committed relationship which then led her to the just one night rule no more beyond that with any man because it means commitment and a real relationship(she’s a bit of mess a little uncanny) she can’t have that not after what she has seen and experienced. Well that’s until her heart wants what it has always wanted enters Greyson.
Greyson fell in love with his best friend’s little sister who became his best friend. He loved her even though he knows she has a one night only rule. He wanted more nights and days but would take it in any form as long as he would be around Elle. Better to be her best friend than nothing at all. One night of cuddling, talking and being completely vulnerable was all Elle could bear she needed right then she couldn’t have grey the way he wanted to have her. Two years later no word or contract and then out of the blue there Elle was in front of the man she couldn’t deny had her heart. Just one night was so good. I loved Elle and Greys story. I will admit I think Elle was a bit unhinged with her rule and was in the hot mess express. I also couldn’t stand the Lauren character maybe it’s me personally. She was just a jerk and I seen her in bad light even if things were not written I could sense she was one of those gals that wants to be perfect and will do what it takes and not care whom she hurts! But nonetheless it was a good read. I can’t wait to see if there is fallow up book I want to see what happens with Bennett and Kate or maybe there will be two follow up books but none the less I would definitely recommend and say to put just one night on your TBR.
⭐️/4.5 stars
🌶️/2 on the spice level.
Review of advance copy
5 ⭐️
Brother’s best friend? Calling out the patriarchy? Emotionally messy characters who feel everything way too deeply? Yeah, this book had me invested from page one.
Just One Night was emotional from start to finish. Elle carries a lot of unresolved hurt from her parents, and because of that, she’s sworn off relationships completely. Instead, she sticks to “temps”, one-night stands. There’s no strings attached and no emotional risk.
Greyson has been part of Elle’s life for years as her brother’s best friend. He’s watched her grow up, seen her through major moments in her life, and knows her better than most people do. When he moves back to NYC, the two slowly build a friendship of their own that turns into weekly dinners, constant conversations, and being there for each other through the harder parts of life.
The more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore what’s growing between them. The problem? One of them is ready to take the next step, and the other is absolutely terrified of it.
What really stood out to me was the character work. This book did such a great job showing how two people can experience the same traumatic event and come out of it completely differently. One person throws themselves fully into life, afraid to miss anything, while the other shuts down emotionally and keeps everyone at arm’s length. Sydney handled both sides of that so well, and it made watching Elle and Greyson find their way back to each other feel real.
This story made me laugh, smile, and ache right alongside the characters. The writing was beautiful, emotional, full of vulnerability, and I loved every second of it.
Thank you Sydney and Literary Media Tours for an advanced reader copy of Just One Night (publishing August 20, 2026).
Brother’s best friend? Calling out the patriarchy? Emotionally messy characters who feel everything way too deeply? Yeah, this book had me invested from page one.
Just One Night was emotional from start to finish. Elle carries a lot of unresolved hurt from her parents, and because of that, she’s sworn off relationships completely. Instead, she sticks to “temps”, one-night stands. There’s no strings attached and no emotional risk.
Greyson has been part of Elle’s life for years as her brother’s best friend. He’s watched her grow up, seen her through major moments in her life, and knows her better than most people do. When he moves back to NYC, the two slowly build a friendship of their own that turns into weekly dinners, constant conversations, and being there for each other through the harder parts of life.
The more time they spend together, the harder it becomes to ignore what’s growing between them. The problem? One of them is ready to take the next step, and the other is absolutely terrified of it.
What really stood out to me was the character work. This book did such a great job showing how two people can experience the same traumatic event and come out of it completely differently. One person throws themselves fully into life, afraid to miss anything, while the other shuts down emotionally and keeps everyone at arm’s length. Sydney handled both sides of that so well, and it made watching Elle and Greyson find their way back to each other feel real.
This story made me laugh, smile, and ache right alongside the characters. The writing was beautiful, emotional, full of vulnerability, and I loved every second of it.
Thank you Sydney and Literary Media Tours for an advanced reader copy of Just One Night (publishing August 20, 2026).
Review of advance copy received from Author
Maybe part of the beauty of falling in love is the trust that comes with it, because I know in my heart that this man will keep coming back.
Tropes:
Brother's Best Friend
Second Chance Romance
Forced Proximity (Thank you Bennett)
Brunch with the Bestie
This was such an amazingly cute story. As a debut novel, this was such a huge start off for Sydney. The character building was top tier, the writing was phenomenal, and I genuinely felt like this book is relatable in many different ways.
One of the things that I loved about this novel is Elle - our FMC. She definitely didn't have the stereotypical personality of most romance novels, and I LOVED that. Instead of wanting to find love, have the family, etc., she is extremely closed off and very hard to like romantically - she calls her one night stands "temps". I loved that while she was cold on that front, she was a girls girl through and through. She made it plainly obvious that while you can dislike someone, you cannot go around calling them horrible names. I absolutely loved this of her personality, and how she stayed true to this. Also, this poor woman needs a desperate vacation after all the crap she went through on her own.
Greyson was such a good character as well, and I love that he handled everything he needed to without making a giant mess of things. This was refreshing to have a MMC that actually takes accountability and works on it.
Little side note but Bennett is the best boi, and I am so here for his healing arc <3
Overall, I absolutely loved this story, and I genuinely cannot wait for more books from Sydney!
Tropes:
Brother's Best Friend
Second Chance Romance
Forced Proximity (Thank you Bennett)
Brunch with the Bestie
This was such an amazingly cute story. As a debut novel, this was such a huge start off for Sydney. The character building was top tier, the writing was phenomenal, and I genuinely felt like this book is relatable in many different ways.
One of the things that I loved about this novel is Elle - our FMC. She definitely didn't have the stereotypical personality of most romance novels, and I LOVED that. Instead of wanting to find love, have the family, etc., she is extremely closed off and very hard to like romantically - she calls her one night stands "temps". I loved that while she was cold on that front, she was a girls girl through and through. She made it plainly obvious that while you can dislike someone, you cannot go around calling them horrible names. I absolutely loved this of her personality, and how she stayed true to this. Also, this poor woman needs a desperate vacation after all the crap she went through on her own.
Greyson was such a good character as well, and I love that he handled everything he needed to without making a giant mess of things. This was refreshing to have a MMC that actually takes accountability and works on it.
Little side note but Bennett is the best boi, and I am so here for his healing arc <3
Overall, I absolutely loved this story, and I genuinely cannot wait for more books from Sydney!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Just One Night by Sydney Devine
4.5⭐️
This was an emotional story that focused on Elle’s fear of abandonment in relationships due to past trauma from her parent’s divorce and how much taking care of her mom after the divorce affected Elle’s mental and physical capability to love. I wish I could just jump into the book and give everyone a hug because they’re all going through it in the worst way. It just goes to show how the same trauma can affect people in different ways and how everyone copes with it differently. But no matter what, communication is key and you need support when dealing with mentally and emotionally heavy things.
The way Sydney formatted the story with dual timelines and dual POV had me itching to know what caused the fallout between Elle and Greyson! I loved the buildup of suspense and questions for what truly happened that I found myself unable to turn the pages fast enough. I needed to know!
The tension and drama had me hooked, but the tenderness and emotion kept me invested. Even though whole truths weren’t shared in order to protect their hearts, the dual POV gave the reader the opportunity to know what each character was thinking and feeling, which helped us to connect better and have empathy.
My heart ached as I felt all the hurt they were feeling but I also smiled and laughed throughout which made this a great reading experience!
✨ Brother's Best Friend
✨ He Falls First
✨ Brunch Is Sacred
✨ She Has a One Night Rule
✨ Friends to Lovers
✨ Forced Proximity
🌶️ “Eyes on me, sweetheart.”
Thank you to Sydney Devine and Literary Media Tours for this gifted eARC!
Just One Night by Sydney Devine
4.5⭐️
This was an emotional story that focused on Elle’s fear of abandonment in relationships due to past trauma from her parent’s divorce and how much taking care of her mom after the divorce affected Elle’s mental and physical capability to love. I wish I could just jump into the book and give everyone a hug because they’re all going through it in the worst way. It just goes to show how the same trauma can affect people in different ways and how everyone copes with it differently. But no matter what, communication is key and you need support when dealing with mentally and emotionally heavy things.
The way Sydney formatted the story with dual timelines and dual POV had me itching to know what caused the fallout between Elle and Greyson! I loved the buildup of suspense and questions for what truly happened that I found myself unable to turn the pages fast enough. I needed to know!
The tension and drama had me hooked, but the tenderness and emotion kept me invested. Even though whole truths weren’t shared in order to protect their hearts, the dual POV gave the reader the opportunity to know what each character was thinking and feeling, which helped us to connect better and have empathy.
My heart ached as I felt all the hurt they were feeling but I also smiled and laughed throughout which made this a great reading experience!
✨ Brother's Best Friend
✨ He Falls First
✨ Brunch Is Sacred
✨ She Has a One Night Rule
✨ Friends to Lovers
✨ Forced Proximity
🌶️ “Eyes on me, sweetheart.”
Thank you to Sydney Devine and Literary Media Tours for this gifted eARC!
August 20, 2026
Wow! It is ridiculously difficult to write a book in the first place but when a debut novel hits a home run it’s amazing! I should have known when the blurb alone made me want to sign up for an ARC, then I saw the cover and was even more excited. Fast forward and this book did not disappoint. The story is as beautifully detailed and complex as the cover illustration and I loved it. A slow burn, second chance for childhood friends where Elle is Greyson’s bestie Bennett’s little sister. Elle has childhood trauma from her parent’s divorce that leads to major trust issues as an adult. She really need a therapist but instead she has her bestie Kate who is the best friend everyone should have! Loved her character only wish her boyfriend story was better cuz she really deserved a prince too! Elle’s relationship with her brother is very nuanced and as with many sibling relationships changes over time with how close they are. Bennett for all his own drama is a stand up big brother that you can’t help but love especially when he makes an apology brunch with all your favorite people invited. Greyson is a man after my own heart. A fool in love who would do anything for Elle and not apologize for any of it. While he lived a ridiculously blessed life, Elle was the one who made him work. Elle, to be honest, drove me crazy but not to the point I was annoyed with her (and would knock a star off). I appreciated that all of her issues were addressed and resolved throughout the story.
The writing is so well done for a debut novel which is going to make this author an auto read for me moving forward. Thank you so much for the ARC! Can’t wait to see what’s next.
The writing is so well done for a debut novel which is going to make this author an auto read for me moving forward. Thank you so much for the ARC! Can’t wait to see what’s next.
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