What do you think?
Rate this book
Heaven Forbid: A Steamy Southern RomCom
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2026
About the author
Marika Ray
82 books1,451 followersMarika is a USA Today bestselling author writing steamy RomComs to make your heart explode and bring a smile to your face. She lives by the beach and posts a delightful number of hot lifeguard pictures.
Drop your email to be notified when each book releases: http://bit.ly/MarikaRayNews
Be sure to add my new releases to your TBR Today!
Drop your email to be notified when each book releases: http://bit.ly/MarikaRayNews
Be sure to add my new releases to your TBR Today!
Hellman Brothers Series
Sisters From Hell Series
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
May 5, 2026
4.5 stars!
May 5, 2026
Book 2, just as addictive and wonderful as the first one!
If you haven't visited the town of Heaven, what are you waiting for?
This time, we get to fall in love with Silas' sister, Mary London, who owns the Golden Halo boutique - and she's fixin' to do more! Thank goodness Rhett has returned to town, because she's going to need his contracting company for her plans.
Rhett grew up on the "wrong side" of the tracks, but coming back to his hometown (with his teenage son Rylan) is hopefully the fresh start they both need. Unfortunately, as we all know, small town feuds and opinions are hard to change, so having an attraction to the town's golden girl/debutante Mary London is more than a problem.
I love how this author allows me to connect with her characters and drop into their lives. It was so easy to follow the sunshiney, determined attitude of Mary London and her flirty attraction to the brooding Rhett. Their chemistry is never in question, and she is prepared to convince him of his worth and importance to her life - and I loved their HEA.
If you want a fantastic small town read, full of Southern charm and wonderful characters - please read this series!! This couple has joined the others from this author's stories, who live rent-free in my heart. Once done here, visit her other addictive, engaging series in her unforgettable catalog of work. Worth you time, IMO.
I thank this author for my ARC, and happily leave my thoughts.
If you haven't visited the town of Heaven, what are you waiting for?
This time, we get to fall in love with Silas' sister, Mary London, who owns the Golden Halo boutique - and she's fixin' to do more! Thank goodness Rhett has returned to town, because she's going to need his contracting company for her plans.
Rhett grew up on the "wrong side" of the tracks, but coming back to his hometown (with his teenage son Rylan) is hopefully the fresh start they both need. Unfortunately, as we all know, small town feuds and opinions are hard to change, so having an attraction to the town's golden girl/debutante Mary London is more than a problem.
I love how this author allows me to connect with her characters and drop into their lives. It was so easy to follow the sunshiney, determined attitude of Mary London and her flirty attraction to the brooding Rhett. Their chemistry is never in question, and she is prepared to convince him of his worth and importance to her life - and I loved their HEA.
If you want a fantastic small town read, full of Southern charm and wonderful characters - please read this series!! This couple has joined the others from this author's stories, who live rent-free in my heart. Once done here, visit her other addictive, engaging series in her unforgettable catalog of work. Worth you time, IMO.
I thank this author for my ARC, and happily leave my thoughts.
April 19, 2026
Stepping out of society’s boxes
This story. Ooofff. The big emotions hit me just right making this heartfelt swoony and spicy romance as seen through the eyes of complicated characters one I’ll remember for quite a while. The storyline had a great mix of tropes - bad boy/good girl, single dad, workplace, family feud, and defying society’s gender/class roles. Mary London owns a women’s clothing store in small town Heaven, MS. Despite being bred as a wealthy southern bell, she is working on opening a honky tonk bar geared toward college kids. Rhett is a general contractor, a widower, and a single dad to 16 yo Rylan. He grew up in Heaven on the wrong side of the tracks but moved back thinking it’d be better for his son. Rhett and Mary London meet when Rylan steals from Mary London’s boutique and she ends up hiring Rhett to build out her bar. There is an instant sizzling amount of chemistry and attraction between them but also a plethora of emotional and societal barriers standing in the way of a relationship. I loved watching Mary London and Rhett deal with all their barriers individually and together while on their journey to the HEA. I was right there with them cheering them on. This book made my heart so happy to read. I am loving small town gossipy Heaven and the couples in this series.
This story. Ooofff. The big emotions hit me just right making this heartfelt swoony and spicy romance as seen through the eyes of complicated characters one I’ll remember for quite a while. The storyline had a great mix of tropes - bad boy/good girl, single dad, workplace, family feud, and defying society’s gender/class roles. Mary London owns a women’s clothing store in small town Heaven, MS. Despite being bred as a wealthy southern bell, she is working on opening a honky tonk bar geared toward college kids. Rhett is a general contractor, a widower, and a single dad to 16 yo Rylan. He grew up in Heaven on the wrong side of the tracks but moved back thinking it’d be better for his son. Rhett and Mary London meet when Rylan steals from Mary London’s boutique and she ends up hiring Rhett to build out her bar. There is an instant sizzling amount of chemistry and attraction between them but also a plethora of emotional and societal barriers standing in the way of a relationship. I loved watching Mary London and Rhett deal with all their barriers individually and together while on their journey to the HEA. I was right there with them cheering them on. This book made my heart so happy to read. I am loving small town gossipy Heaven and the couples in this series.
May 21, 2026
A wrong side of the tracks hero?
Sold.
Take my money, all my money!
This is definitely one of my favourite tropes, and Marika Ray wrote a hero to completely fall in love with.
Rhett is all kinds of swoony. The little gentlemanly acts of care he shows Mary London are everything. I loved that he took care of her but also supported and respected her intelligence, business vision and independence. I loved him as a Dad as well, trying his best to raise Rylan on his own to be a good person.
Mary London is amazing. She's full of sass and spunk and steel but everyone only sees the sugar coating. I loved her determination to open the new bar even in the face of so much criticism and opposition. I loved her for seeing past the stereotype and giving both Rhett and Rylan a chance.
Rylan, Rhett's teenage son was written well. I loved the balance Marika Ray struck between a little rebellion but also a caring and vulnerable teen. The relationship he has with Rhett is wonderful, but I absolutely adored the relationship he develops with Mary London.
Rhett thinks that he and Mary London are different but really they are both battling stereotypes and reputations that aren't theirs, but what others think they are or should be. I love when they both prove Heaven wrong by being the caring, honest, supportive people that they are.
This whole story just made me so happy when I read it. The characters are people I would love to be friends with and their story was full of warmth and love.
Sold.
Take my money, all my money!
This is definitely one of my favourite tropes, and Marika Ray wrote a hero to completely fall in love with.
Rhett is all kinds of swoony. The little gentlemanly acts of care he shows Mary London are everything. I loved that he took care of her but also supported and respected her intelligence, business vision and independence. I loved him as a Dad as well, trying his best to raise Rylan on his own to be a good person.
Mary London is amazing. She's full of sass and spunk and steel but everyone only sees the sugar coating. I loved her determination to open the new bar even in the face of so much criticism and opposition. I loved her for seeing past the stereotype and giving both Rhett and Rylan a chance.
Rylan, Rhett's teenage son was written well. I loved the balance Marika Ray struck between a little rebellion but also a caring and vulnerable teen. The relationship he has with Rhett is wonderful, but I absolutely adored the relationship he develops with Mary London.
Rhett thinks that he and Mary London are different but really they are both battling stereotypes and reputations that aren't theirs, but what others think they are or should be. I love when they both prove Heaven wrong by being the caring, honest, supportive people that they are.
This whole story just made me so happy when I read it. The characters are people I would love to be friends with and their story was full of warmth and love.
May 7, 2026
“No one in my thirty-four years of life has looked at me like Rhett is looking at me now. Like he hates me and wants to lick me at the same time.”
The golden girl of Heaven and the town’s bad boy? Yes please!!
Mary London Winthrop , a Southern Belle through and through is ready to shake things up a bit and who better to help her than Rhett, the bad boy from the other side of the tracks.
Rhett Price is back in town with his teenage son, ready to start over, he certainly didn’t expect to fall in love with the “enemy”, the Winthrop and Price families have been feuding for years.
There was instant connection right from the start between these two, add in the lingering hungry looks and eventually the sneaking around? These two are sizzling hot together! As with most small towns, every knows everyone’s business and feuds are not uncommon, these two have a lot of hoops to jump through to get to their HEA!
Love Mary London, she’s smart, sassy, a true Southern Belle with a heart of gold! Rhett is a great Father regardless of how he feels sometimes and I love his relationship with his son Rylan. This father and son duo didn’t know what hit them after crossing paths with Mary London! They both fell hard for her sweet and charming self. Mary London was so good with Rylan especially because their first encounter was under unpleasant circumstances.
So glad to be back in Heaven, Mississippi! Lots of great side characters that made the story even more enjoyable!
The golden girl of Heaven and the town’s bad boy? Yes please!!
Mary London Winthrop , a Southern Belle through and through is ready to shake things up a bit and who better to help her than Rhett, the bad boy from the other side of the tracks.
Rhett Price is back in town with his teenage son, ready to start over, he certainly didn’t expect to fall in love with the “enemy”, the Winthrop and Price families have been feuding for years.
There was instant connection right from the start between these two, add in the lingering hungry looks and eventually the sneaking around? These two are sizzling hot together! As with most small towns, every knows everyone’s business and feuds are not uncommon, these two have a lot of hoops to jump through to get to their HEA!
Love Mary London, she’s smart, sassy, a true Southern Belle with a heart of gold! Rhett is a great Father regardless of how he feels sometimes and I love his relationship with his son Rylan. This father and son duo didn’t know what hit them after crossing paths with Mary London! They both fell hard for her sweet and charming self. Mary London was so good with Rylan especially because their first encounter was under unpleasant circumstances.
So glad to be back in Heaven, Mississippi! Lots of great side characters that made the story even more enjoyable!
May 28, 2026
Southern Charm is the kind of series that will have you saying “Well shut the front door” or “I do declare” while fanning yourself, because sometimes you just have to say something, even when you don’t quite know what to say. Marika Ray brings out the absolute best of small‑town romantic comedy: the sweetness, the sass, the chaos, and the charm.
And if you’re a trope girly?
You’ll be grinning like a possum eating a sweet potato (a phrase my grandpa used at least once a month 😜).
In Heaven Forbid, we finally get Mary London and Rhett’s story... and what a tale it is. Mary is the town’s Golden Girl, but she’s got that wonderfully Southern duality: sandals and sundresses on Sunday mornings, but leather and lace on Friday nights.
And then there’s Rhett, the single dad from the wrong side of town, raising his son Rylan with everything he’s got. He’s trying his best to do right, even while the town insists on seeing him as the eternal Bad Boy.
When Mary hires Rhett as her builder, the sparks don’t just fly, they crackle. The chemistry, the spice, the swoon… and the banter? Full of spit and vinegar as they both try (and fail) to remember they’re on opposite sides of a long‑standing family feud.
But nothing will make a Southern girl go harder after something than someone saying, “Sweet baby girl, you know you shouldn’t…” You don’t even finish that sentence.... because... you know she will.
This story is fun, funny, and delightfully flirty, but it also has a real beating heart and emotional stakes. Marika Ray delivers another small‑town rom‑com that feels warm, lived‑in, and full of charm.
Thank you to Marika for sharing an advanced DRC with me to review
And if you’re a trope girly?
You’ll be grinning like a possum eating a sweet potato (a phrase my grandpa used at least once a month 😜).
In Heaven Forbid, we finally get Mary London and Rhett’s story... and what a tale it is. Mary is the town’s Golden Girl, but she’s got that wonderfully Southern duality: sandals and sundresses on Sunday mornings, but leather and lace on Friday nights.
And then there’s Rhett, the single dad from the wrong side of town, raising his son Rylan with everything he’s got. He’s trying his best to do right, even while the town insists on seeing him as the eternal Bad Boy.
When Mary hires Rhett as her builder, the sparks don’t just fly, they crackle. The chemistry, the spice, the swoon… and the banter? Full of spit and vinegar as they both try (and fail) to remember they’re on opposite sides of a long‑standing family feud.
But nothing will make a Southern girl go harder after something than someone saying, “Sweet baby girl, you know you shouldn’t…” You don’t even finish that sentence.... because... you know she will.
This story is fun, funny, and delightfully flirty, but it also has a real beating heart and emotional stakes. Marika Ray delivers another small‑town rom‑com that feels warm, lived‑in, and full of charm.
Thank you to Marika for sharing an advanced DRC with me to review
Review of advance copy received from Author
In my opinion? Heaven, Mississippi embodies every single thing you’ve ever thought about a Southern town. Everyone has their roles, and [pardon the expression] heaven forbid someone tries to overcome them! But the folks who live there always come around to stand by their neighbors! Or as Mary London would say, ‘Bless Their Hearts’..
What a fun read! Meeting Mary London Winthrop was such a kick. She is a smart, strong, Southern business woman, and a firecracker to boot. And I don’t see Rhett Price as being from the wrong side of the tracks but it’s a lesson he needs to learn about himself. How these two navigate their eventual relationship is wonderful. My heart broke for both of them – whether they were trying to break thru expectations or just trying to get thru the day, I truly loved them both. And Rhett’s son, Rylan? He is such an amazing young man – his daddy done good!
I’m guessing there is a set up at the end for the next book. Man, it is hilarious and I hope I’m correct. I’m not ready to leave this town. Loved this story and this series.
What a fun read! Meeting Mary London Winthrop was such a kick. She is a smart, strong, Southern business woman, and a firecracker to boot. And I don’t see Rhett Price as being from the wrong side of the tracks but it’s a lesson he needs to learn about himself. How these two navigate their eventual relationship is wonderful. My heart broke for both of them – whether they were trying to break thru expectations or just trying to get thru the day, I truly loved them both. And Rhett’s son, Rylan? He is such an amazing young man – his daddy done good!
I’m guessing there is a set up at the end for the next book. Man, it is hilarious and I hope I’m correct. I’m not ready to leave this town. Loved this story and this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
#SingleDad #SecretRelationship #SmallTown #ARC
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book. Written in first person from an alternating dual POV, this can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA.
Mary London (33) is always put together, always has the right words to say, and is 100% committed to maintaining her southern debutante image. She is whip-smart, determined, and has an amazing work ethic on top of it. She sets out to smash expectations of the role a southern lady should play. Rhett (40) has recently moved back to town with his teenage son, Rylan. He is determined to give his son stability and the king of life a small town makes possible.
This was a fun read with all the southern-isms. Rhett is a good man who learns to give himself a break from the expectations he perceives are upon him. Mary London is one tough gal, and I love how Rhett puts her first. Hot times and honest talk make a romance to remember. Heaven, Mississippi is a gift that just keeps on giving. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book. Written in first person from an alternating dual POV, this can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA.
Mary London (33) is always put together, always has the right words to say, and is 100% committed to maintaining her southern debutante image. She is whip-smart, determined, and has an amazing work ethic on top of it. She sets out to smash expectations of the role a southern lady should play. Rhett (40) has recently moved back to town with his teenage son, Rylan. He is determined to give his son stability and the king of life a small town makes possible.
This was a fun read with all the southern-isms. Rhett is a good man who learns to give himself a break from the expectations he perceives are upon him. Mary London is one tough gal, and I love how Rhett puts her first. Hot times and honest talk make a romance to remember. Heaven, Mississippi is a gift that just keeps on giving. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
May 11, 2026
This is the second book in thus awesome series, and this is Mary London and Rhett’s story.
Mary London is the towns golden girl, who has a wild streak in her, while Rhett is a single dad, from the wrong side of the tracks, and their families are sworn enemies. Mary London hires Rhett as a contractor for her new project, and the sparks fly between them.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, tension, bad boy / good girl, opposites attract, grumpy / sunshine, secrets, challenges, close proximity, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and sweet addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Mary London is the towns golden girl, who has a wild streak in her, while Rhett is a single dad, from the wrong side of the tracks, and their families are sworn enemies. Mary London hires Rhett as a contractor for her new project, and the sparks fly between them.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, tension, bad boy / good girl, opposites attract, grumpy / sunshine, secrets, challenges, close proximity, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and sweet addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
May 10, 2026
Lots of smiles, laughs and love
Marika Ray writes feel-good rom-coms that make me smile and laugh. Her guys make me swoon and her women are strong, independent and don't need a man to lift them up.
Mary London is quite the character. She is a typical southern belle - a steel magnolia. She has met her match in quiet Rhett Price. He is an adorable, quiet guy looking for a better life for himself and his son.
This series has been fun to read.
Marika Ray writes feel-good rom-coms that make me smile and laugh. Her guys make me swoon and her women are strong, independent and don't need a man to lift them up.
Mary London is quite the character. She is a typical southern belle - a steel magnolia. She has met her match in quiet Rhett Price. He is an adorable, quiet guy looking for a better life for himself and his son.
This series has been fun to read.
May 11, 2026
So happy that Mary London finally got her HEA. I enjoyed meeting the Price's, some more than another at the start. But Papaw grew on me! I loved catching up some some of the other people of Heaven and all their small town love and gossip. I felt it was missing the potlucks and after church lunches (that is where all the gossip happens really), but maybe that is just my experience with small town southern churches :) I really hope Deuce's story is next! Because I want more of that flirt!
May 8, 2026
I absolutely LOVE these Southern books Marika has been writing!! I love the banter that goes with them. This was a great book about Mary London finding love with Rhett. He is contracted by her to build her dream Honky tonk bar. He has a lot of scars from how he was treated as a child by the feud with her family. SO cute!
May 9, 2026
superior reading!
Oh my, this is just the hottest and sweetest read! Back in the town of Heaven, bless your hearts, we get to see Mary London fall hard for Rhett and his son. This is just such a fabulous series drowning in southern charm. You will not put it down to the last full stop.
I cannot wait for the next installment where I’m hoping we discover Deuce’s secrets next
Oh my, this is just the hottest and sweetest read! Back in the town of Heaven, bless your hearts, we get to see Mary London fall hard for Rhett and his son. This is just such a fabulous series drowning in southern charm. You will not put it down to the last full stop.
I cannot wait for the next installment where I’m hoping we discover Deuce’s secrets next
May 5, 2026
Keeps getting better!
Marika Ray brings the reader into her world and make the reader want to live in it with her every time! Thank you to the author for this wonderful read!
Marika Ray brings the reader in her world! I enjoy it every time!
Marika Ray brings the reader into her world and make the reader want to live in it with her every time! Thank you to the author for this wonderful read!
Marika Ray brings the reader in her world! I enjoy it every time!
May 6, 2026
Love this town
I loved Mary London and Rhett together. She is a true southern lady with a spine of steel,but a kind heart. I loved seeing her dad apologize and start to be a better father. I also really liked her relationship with Rylan,Rhett’s son.
I loved Mary London and Rhett together. She is a true southern lady with a spine of steel,but a kind heart. I loved seeing her dad apologize and start to be a better father. I also really liked her relationship with Rylan,Rhett’s son.
May 30, 2026
Small Town Charm...
I loved loved loved the characters and their story! You have a sassy southern belle and a hero of few words. I just love single dad stories and was happy I read this one! Feuding families, great chemistry, some drama, and small town nosiness. I found Mary London so entertaining! Every page kept me intrigued... I had to see what happened next between her and Rhett. So happy I read this story!
I loved loved loved the characters and their story! You have a sassy southern belle and a hero of few words. I just love single dad stories and was happy I read this one! Feuding families, great chemistry, some drama, and small town nosiness. I found Mary London so entertaining! Every page kept me intrigued... I had to see what happened next between her and Rhett. So happy I read this story!
May 12, 2026
I didn’t enjoy this one as much as Silas’ book. It’s just missing something for me. Like humor and witty banter between these two and outside characters. 3*ho hum*stars!!!!!
May 31, 2026
The best! I devoured the book. Mary London, Rhett and Rylan are such lovely characters . Great time reading this.
May 19, 2026
Mary is proper in all areas of her life and is respected by all. The only problem is that she wants more and that includes opening a business that other people have their opinions about. When Rylan, Rhett’s son, tries to take items from her business she and Rhett work out an arrangement.
Rhett has recently moved backed to his hometown before his son’s behavior gets him into trouble. He knows how the town views him and between the circumstances brought them together and how the town views him he thinks he should keep his distance from Mary, but she doesn’t agree.
Rhett and Mary are so much fun together as she may seem to be prim, but appearances can be deceiving while Rhett has an impression of himself as not being worthy, but Mary is about to put that to the test as they take us on ride that is both heartwarming and romantic.
Rhett has recently moved backed to his hometown before his son’s behavior gets him into trouble. He knows how the town views him and between the circumstances brought them together and how the town views him he thinks he should keep his distance from Mary, but she doesn’t agree.
Rhett and Mary are so much fun together as she may seem to be prim, but appearances can be deceiving while Rhett has an impression of himself as not being worthy, but Mary is about to put that to the test as they take us on ride that is both heartwarming and romantic.
May 16, 2026
This is the second book in thus awesome series, and this is Mary London and Rhett’s story.
Mary London is the towns golden girl, who has a wild streak in her, while Rhett is a single dad, from the wrong side of the tracks, and their families are sworn enemies. Mary London hires Rhett as a contractor for her new project, and the sparks fly between them.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, tension, bad boy / good girl, opposites attract, grumpy / sunshine, secrets, challenges, close proximity, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and sweet addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Mary London is the towns golden girl, who has a wild streak in her, while Rhett is a single dad, from the wrong side of the tracks, and their families are sworn enemies. Mary London hires Rhett as a contractor for her new project, and the sparks fly between them.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family, friendships, emotions, tension, bad boy / good girl, opposites attract, grumpy / sunshine, secrets, challenges, close proximity, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and sweet addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
May 11, 2026
Mary London and Rhett are wonderful characters who are trying to do their best in the roles they’ve found themselves. The trouble is, society doesn’t know the whole story for either of them. Mary London desperately wants to continue making her mama’s memory proud, and Rhett just needs a place where his son can be safe – even if it’s not a town that holds a lot of good memories for him. Fate brings them together and these two loving, right-thinking people fall for each other.
The characters are lovely and the sidekicks are also drawn with the usual Marika gusto. I have to admit I wasn’t really buying the forbidden romance angle so much, as the only one who truly seemed troubled by his past was Rhett, and I thought at some point it got a little tedious. Nevertheless, I love how he behaves with Mary London, her family and friends. And watching Mary London free herself of self-imposed expectations is priceless. This is a fantastic early entry in the beach reads category, right after its predecessor Heavens to Betsy (which was a scream).
The characters are lovely and the sidekicks are also drawn with the usual Marika gusto. I have to admit I wasn’t really buying the forbidden romance angle so much, as the only one who truly seemed troubled by his past was Rhett, and I thought at some point it got a little tedious. Nevertheless, I love how he behaves with Mary London, her family and friends. And watching Mary London free herself of self-imposed expectations is priceless. This is a fantastic early entry in the beach reads category, right after its predecessor Heavens to Betsy (which was a scream).
May 3, 2026
“Mary London wants a man to burn down the world for her. Desperate, deep, forever kind of love. Surface level will never be enough.”
Heaven Forbid is an utterly charming return to the sweet, slightly nosy, always delightful town of Heaven — and this time, we get to fall headfirst into Mary London’s story. As Silas’ prim, proper, impeccably poised sister, she embodies the ultimate southern lady: gracious, polished, and unfailingly composed. Which is exactly why her slow burn tumble for Rhett — the grumpy, quiet contractor from the “wrong” side of the tracks — feels so deliciously irresistible.
These two are opposites in every way that counts, yet they fit together with an ease neither of them expects. Their journey is all about shedding the weight of other people’s expectations and learning to choose what makes them happy. Watching them confront their own assumptions, challenge each other, and slowly let their guards down gives the story so much heart.
Rhett is the best kind of grump: stoic, steady, and silently smitten, but always a gentleman when it comes to Mary London. And Mary London — all sunshine, sweetness, and steel — can charm a room and cut through nonsense with a single well chosen word. Their dynamic is tender, funny, and quietly electric, the kind of opposites attract pairing that makes you root for them from the very first spark.
Heaven Forbid is an adorable, heartfelt story filled with southern charm, swoony moments, and just the right touch of heat and humor. I’m completely in love with this small town and its wonderfully messy, lovable characters — and I already can’t wait to go back.
Heaven Forbid is an utterly charming return to the sweet, slightly nosy, always delightful town of Heaven — and this time, we get to fall headfirst into Mary London’s story. As Silas’ prim, proper, impeccably poised sister, she embodies the ultimate southern lady: gracious, polished, and unfailingly composed. Which is exactly why her slow burn tumble for Rhett — the grumpy, quiet contractor from the “wrong” side of the tracks — feels so deliciously irresistible.
These two are opposites in every way that counts, yet they fit together with an ease neither of them expects. Their journey is all about shedding the weight of other people’s expectations and learning to choose what makes them happy. Watching them confront their own assumptions, challenge each other, and slowly let their guards down gives the story so much heart.
Rhett is the best kind of grump: stoic, steady, and silently smitten, but always a gentleman when it comes to Mary London. And Mary London — all sunshine, sweetness, and steel — can charm a room and cut through nonsense with a single well chosen word. Their dynamic is tender, funny, and quietly electric, the kind of opposites attract pairing that makes you root for them from the very first spark.
Heaven Forbid is an adorable, heartfelt story filled with southern charm, swoony moments, and just the right touch of heat and humor. I’m completely in love with this small town and its wonderfully messy, lovable characters — and I already can’t wait to go back.
May 10, 2026
This is my favorite story from Marinka. It’s full of laughs, tender moments, and characters that are fantastic!
Amazing tropes - single dad, small town, female entrepreneur, opposite attract and towns people they cannot mind their own business.
Mary London is so unique…she works at a boutiques has a squeaky clean reputation but is ready for something she can call her own. She has people working against her but along comes Rhett who becomes her biggest cheerleader.
Rhett is a delight..I adore him. He is kind, funny, patient and full of passion. He’s an amazing single dad…he didn’t have the best example growing up …so trying to be the best dad for his son.
Mary London and Rhett are magical together. They have amazing chemistry, banter and a great respect for one another. They also build each other confidence and become great partners.
Love love love this story .
Amazing tropes - single dad, small town, female entrepreneur, opposite attract and towns people they cannot mind their own business.
Mary London is so unique…she works at a boutiques has a squeaky clean reputation but is ready for something she can call her own. She has people working against her but along comes Rhett who becomes her biggest cheerleader.
Rhett is a delight..I adore him. He is kind, funny, patient and full of passion. He’s an amazing single dad…he didn’t have the best example growing up …so trying to be the best dad for his son.
Mary London and Rhett are magical together. They have amazing chemistry, banter and a great respect for one another. They also build each other confidence and become great partners.
Love love love this story .
May 10, 2026
I am completely charmed by the small southern town of Heaven ❤
Heaven Forbid is the second book in the Southern Charm series by Marika Ray- and while it is an interconnected series this book does hold really well as a complete stand alone.
4.5⭐
Mary London Winthrop and Rhett Price have that good southern girl and bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks vibe down to an art- like a southern Romeo and Juliette- but it doesn't stop there. Mary London has a little bit of a wild streak in her and is itching to let that side out to play- and who better to coax it out than the single dad, whose teenage son shoplifted from her store, and whose family has a long standing feud with hers.
I simply cannot read this book without hearing Mary London's stereotypical southern sweet way of talking- and that is all thanks to the fantastic writing of Marika. I am not one for audio books and sometimes I forget when a character is supposed to have an accent but there was no way to read this book without that extra southern twang 😆 But the mental visuals of her in her southern pagenty glory- never leaving the house without heels or a full face along with her sass made me love her even more. I love the kinship she felt with Rhett even before they thought to cross their professional relationship lines- and how she so easily clicked into place with Rhett and his son.
Rhett, although a little rough around the edges, is an ultimate gentleman. That is until Mary London wants him not to be. But really he is just one of the good ones, even if he doesn't feel like he is worthy to have someone like Mary London looking his way. Their chemistry was phenomenal- and I swear is was just permeating through the pages!
I was a little thrown by the drama that went down in this book- but Marika never leaves me hanging so I just enjoyed the ride!
I'm hoping that next up in the series we will get some more time with Deuce!
Heaven Forbid is the second book in the Southern Charm series by Marika Ray- and while it is an interconnected series this book does hold really well as a complete stand alone.
4.5⭐
Mary London Winthrop and Rhett Price have that good southern girl and bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks vibe down to an art- like a southern Romeo and Juliette- but it doesn't stop there. Mary London has a little bit of a wild streak in her and is itching to let that side out to play- and who better to coax it out than the single dad, whose teenage son shoplifted from her store, and whose family has a long standing feud with hers.
I simply cannot read this book without hearing Mary London's stereotypical southern sweet way of talking- and that is all thanks to the fantastic writing of Marika. I am not one for audio books and sometimes I forget when a character is supposed to have an accent but there was no way to read this book without that extra southern twang 😆 But the mental visuals of her in her southern pagenty glory- never leaving the house without heels or a full face along with her sass made me love her even more. I love the kinship she felt with Rhett even before they thought to cross their professional relationship lines- and how she so easily clicked into place with Rhett and his son.
Rhett, although a little rough around the edges, is an ultimate gentleman. That is until Mary London wants him not to be. But really he is just one of the good ones, even if he doesn't feel like he is worthy to have someone like Mary London looking his way. Their chemistry was phenomenal- and I swear is was just permeating through the pages!
I was a little thrown by the drama that went down in this book- but Marika never leaves me hanging so I just enjoyed the ride!
I'm hoping that next up in the series we will get some more time with Deuce!
May 14, 2026
I really enjoyed reading this story about overcoming stereotypes and the past. From the beginning, the story caught me in its grip as I watched Mary London and and Rhett come together despite their differences.
May 5, 2026
Heaven Forbid, written by author Marika Ray, is the second book in the Southern Charm Series. Although this can be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend reading Heavens to Betsy as well.
On the outside, Mary London Winthrop is the typical Southern belle...but on the inside, she wants to shake things up a bit. That's when she sets her sights on Rhett Price...the forbidden fruit, so to speak. Rhett is everything she has been warned to stay away from, but the pull is just too strong to ignore. Will Heaven's golden child throw caution to the wind and take a walk on the wild side? I guess you will have to read it to find out!
This story will pull you in right from the start. I love the whole opposites attract storyline...and the heat between Mary London and Rhett is undeniable. Add in the ongoing family feud, and the opinionated residents of Heaven and you are in for one fantastic story!
I received an ARC from the author. My views are my own and are in no way influenced by anyone else.
On the outside, Mary London Winthrop is the typical Southern belle...but on the inside, she wants to shake things up a bit. That's when she sets her sights on Rhett Price...the forbidden fruit, so to speak. Rhett is everything she has been warned to stay away from, but the pull is just too strong to ignore. Will Heaven's golden child throw caution to the wind and take a walk on the wild side? I guess you will have to read it to find out!
This story will pull you in right from the start. I love the whole opposites attract storyline...and the heat between Mary London and Rhett is undeniable. Add in the ongoing family feud, and the opinionated residents of Heaven and you are in for one fantastic story!
I received an ARC from the author. My views are my own and are in no way influenced by anyone else.
May 13, 2026
This is book 2 in Ray's Southern Charm series. A wonderful addition to the series that can be read as a standalone. Ray delivers the best blend of sweet romance and steamy chemistry in this, opposites attract romance read. Our main characters are southern belle and town golden girl, Mary London Winthrop and single dad from the wrong side of the tracks Rhett Price. I adore these characters Mary London has the best balance of southern charm and sass. Living in the south and in a relatively small town I felt right at home with the shenanigans going on in Heaven and I loved every minute of this read! Smooth flowing and captivating storyline with characters you'll fall in love with and cheer for! A wonderful addition to this series and I can't wait to see what Ray will write next!
This book was given to me for free at my request thanks to the author and her team and I voluntarily provided this review.
This book was given to me for free at my request thanks to the author and her team and I voluntarily provided this review.
May 6, 2026
Heaven Forbid ( Southern Charm Series Book 2 ) ⭐️ Grumpy Sunshine ⭐️Single Dad ⭐️Forbidden/ Secret relationship ⭐️Opposite Side Of The Tracks ⭐️Small Town ⭐️Rom Com and all the feels Mary and Rhett / oh my gosh how I absolutely loved just loved their story so freaking much. I loved how likable and relatable both were . I loved how different they were yet how perfectly they complimented each other. And the progression of their relationship, it was so much fun watching each them fall for one another , watching them fight the attraction between them . But that was pretty much impossible because the chemistry between them phew how the sparks 🔥 flew every time they were together. Add into that the angst and the humor and the witty banter, the push and pull, the moments that will pull on all your heartstrings, I genuinely could not get enough of these two . Fun , steamy , emotionally charged and utterly addictive !! That’s exactly what this book / what this series is !!
May 14, 2026
Totally a super cute story. How could you not fall in love with Mary London and Rhett in this story. They balance each other out perfectly and it was amazing watching them fall for each other with that delicious tension! Add in the other fun characters in Heaven and a great story you will get. Heat, heart, and gold old "blesses" thrown in!
May 1, 2026
I was honoured to receive an advanced copy of this story and this is my honest review.
Mary London owns her own boutique - Golden Halo, she is awaiting permits for her to open her dream new bar that would include a mechanical bull, line dancing. Having a female owning and running a bar in Heaven is unheard of.
Being a true Southern Belle, Mary London is always polite and happy but you do her wrong in any way you will find that she is the Queen of the phrase .... The pen is mightier than the sword! This packs more punch and more respect. Whilst coming across as the Southern Belle it also gets missed that Mary London loves to get her hands dirty just like everone else.
Rylan steals from her shop Mary London tells him how he is going to pay for this item. Rylan is the spitting image of his dad Rhett Price.
Rhett's grandad and Mary London's dad have this massive family feud which is still going on after so many years
Rhett owns his own contracting company which includes things like carpentry and re-furbishing projects
Rhett knows how to rock a polo shirt, despite his biceps and tattoo refusing to remain covered, well fitted jeans and a cowboy hat. 🔥🥵🔥 Rhett takes enormous pride in his work and being a single biker dad.
The relationship between Mary London and Rylan you can't help but love
Mary London owns her own boutique - Golden Halo, she is awaiting permits for her to open her dream new bar that would include a mechanical bull, line dancing. Having a female owning and running a bar in Heaven is unheard of.
Being a true Southern Belle, Mary London is always polite and happy but you do her wrong in any way you will find that she is the Queen of the phrase .... The pen is mightier than the sword! This packs more punch and more respect. Whilst coming across as the Southern Belle it also gets missed that Mary London loves to get her hands dirty just like everone else.
Rylan steals from her shop Mary London tells him how he is going to pay for this item. Rylan is the spitting image of his dad Rhett Price.
Rhett's grandad and Mary London's dad have this massive family feud which is still going on after so many years
Rhett owns his own contracting company which includes things like carpentry and re-furbishing projects
Rhett knows how to rock a polo shirt, despite his biceps and tattoo refusing to remain covered, well fitted jeans and a cowboy hat. 🔥🥵🔥 Rhett takes enormous pride in his work and being a single biker dad.
The relationship between Mary London and Rylan you can't help but love
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews