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Med Wreck Romance #3
Love Medalist
Read the third installment in the Med Wreck series—beginning with Love Medley, which #1 New York Times bestselling author Kendare Blake called “a sexy, cute love story about two absolute sweethearts you just want everything to work out for.”
Meet Zoe Connors.
Confident, ambitious, and fiercely independent, Zoe is used to winning. In her final year at medical school, she’s built a life defined by excellence and emotional distance. But after she’s placed on probation for losing her temper with a patient’s husband, she’s reassigned to the hospital’s Pain Clinic, where vulnerability is unavoidable. For the first time, Zoe begins to question whether her need to win is really about success—or about protecting herself.
Meet Luke Barrett.
Charming, easygoing, and never short on attention, Luke keeps things light and always temporary, making sure no one gets close enough for him to hurt. As the new bar manager of a piano bar he’s always dreamed of owning, he’s used to being the one everyone can count on. But when he learns the bar may be sold—and his sister’s health begins to unravel—Luke finds himself stretched thin. This time, walking away might not be an option.
When these two set a wager on who can plan the best date, the chemistry is undeniable.
Their playful rivalry was supposed to be fun, without pressure or expectations. But as the stakes shift from scoring points to risking their hearts, Zoe and Luke must decide whether love is a game to win—or a leap of faith that requires them both to stop keeping score.
Meet Zoe Connors.
Confident, ambitious, and fiercely independent, Zoe is used to winning. In her final year at medical school, she’s built a life defined by excellence and emotional distance. But after she’s placed on probation for losing her temper with a patient’s husband, she’s reassigned to the hospital’s Pain Clinic, where vulnerability is unavoidable. For the first time, Zoe begins to question whether her need to win is really about success—or about protecting herself.
Meet Luke Barrett.
Charming, easygoing, and never short on attention, Luke keeps things light and always temporary, making sure no one gets close enough for him to hurt. As the new bar manager of a piano bar he’s always dreamed of owning, he’s used to being the one everyone can count on. But when he learns the bar may be sold—and his sister’s health begins to unravel—Luke finds himself stretched thin. This time, walking away might not be an option.
When these two set a wager on who can plan the best date, the chemistry is undeniable.
Their playful rivalry was supposed to be fun, without pressure or expectations. But as the stakes shift from scoring points to risking their hearts, Zoe and Luke must decide whether love is a game to win—or a leap of faith that requires them both to stop keeping score.
- GenresRomance
470 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2026
About the author
Lyssa Fairbanks
4 books29 followersLyssa Fairbanks is the author of Love Medley, the debut novel readers and indie bookstores embraced for its heartfelt characters, sharp banter, and emotional depth. Her follow-up, Love Dramedy, continues the Med Wreck series with more humor, heart, and found-family chaos.
A doctor in a past life, Fairbanks writes medical romances about emotionally devoted couples, slow-burn longing, and the messy, hopeful ways people choose love. When she’s not wrangling two spirited kids or revising over too much coffee, she’s planning creative dates with her husband, or sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of her writing life on Instagram (@LFairbanksWrites).
She lives in St. Louis with her family and their melodramatic dog, Mochi. Learn more at www.lyssafairbanks.com.
A doctor in a past life, Fairbanks writes medical romances about emotionally devoted couples, slow-burn longing, and the messy, hopeful ways people choose love. When she’s not wrangling two spirited kids or revising over too much coffee, she’s planning creative dates with her husband, or sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of her writing life on Instagram (@LFairbanksWrites).
She lives in St. Louis with her family and their melodramatic dog, Mochi. Learn more at www.lyssafairbanks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 22, 2026
4.5🌟 | 3🌶️
Nothing makes a romance more entertaining than two people insisting they have everything under control when they clearly don't.
Zoe’s confidence and competitive streak had me laughing, while Luke was impossible not to root for. Their banter was so much fun, and the creative dates kept me hooked, especially as their little competition started getting a lot more personal than either expected.
The chemistry between Zoe and Luke was easily one of my favorite parts. Their personalities worked so well together, and those little date-rating chapters were such a fun touch! Beneath all the flirting, both had personal baggage to work through, and seeing them confront their pasts and take accountability added so much more to their relationship. They weren’t just figuring out their feelings for each other, but learning a few things about themselves along the way.
What really got me was how the story balanced all the rom-com fun with some surprisingly emotional moments. Family relationships and personal growth played such an important role, and the final stretch definitely got me in my feelings! I loved that there was more to their story than the romance.
This was such a fun, swoony read that left me even happier to be back with this friend group.
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Lyssa Fairbanks and Love Notes PR for the ARC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
Nothing makes a romance more entertaining than two people insisting they have everything under control when they clearly don't.
Zoe’s confidence and competitive streak had me laughing, while Luke was impossible not to root for. Their banter was so much fun, and the creative dates kept me hooked, especially as their little competition started getting a lot more personal than either expected.
The chemistry between Zoe and Luke was easily one of my favorite parts. Their personalities worked so well together, and those little date-rating chapters were such a fun touch! Beneath all the flirting, both had personal baggage to work through, and seeing them confront their pasts and take accountability added so much more to their relationship. They weren’t just figuring out their feelings for each other, but learning a few things about themselves along the way.
What really got me was how the story balanced all the rom-com fun with some surprisingly emotional moments. Family relationships and personal growth played such an important role, and the final stretch definitely got me in my feelings! I loved that there was more to their story than the romance.
This was such a fun, swoony read that left me even happier to be back with this friend group.
~~~~
A sincere thank you to Lyssa Fairbanks and Love Notes PR for the ARC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Medalist 🏅
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Lyssa Fairbanks for trusting me with this ARC!🌱
Zoe Connors is a chronic winner.
As the last year of med school is not already tricky enough and threatens to end her streak ,Luke Barret and his awful dating skills are here to bet her.
Luke Barrett's favorite bar is ready to be sold and he has one last chance to keep it alive.Time is up for him and apart from having to be quick,love is going to knock his door in the most unexpected way possible.
The Love Medalist is something TOTALLY new to the book industry.THE TROPES?? HELLO,I AM TOTALLY IN!🤏🏻
Literally,I had the best time,with the way everything formed together and at the point of 30% in,your girl could not stop looking at that kindle.Generally,I found brilliant the whole idea behind that book and it is also one of the times that the idea delivered to the fullest!Getting into the writing style,it was easy to follow,pacing altering in between scenes,with the date ones being the best and overall everything was amazingly written.
Our main girl Zoe was a supergirl.(yes,I do not have anything else to describe her)she was an honored, hardworking student,with a certainty and pride higher the mount Everest itself and a beauty worth fighting for.Plus,she is what I can say as a rom-com material.
She was the type of person that would make you laugh till crying point and in the next giggle,while having heart eyes.On the other side,Luke was just trying to manage everything THAT BOY WAS STRESSED OUT & on top of that he had a bet to win,just so funny and at the same time he is just a poor boy (sorry man,but you got your woman at the end).Their overall relationship was really hilarious and lovely at the same time,with the them hoping that they will not fall for each other,but you could see clearly how after every single date the tension was even bigger and bigger between those two until we reached the top and got tangled in bed sheets.
Lastly,I want to point out that apart from having this adorable and amazing rom-com to enjoy,Fairbanks as well point out the importance of families,and let me say especially mum(s),in the story.A big part of both our characters arcs was how the navigated their relationships with those people,how the impacted them and of course they will choose to move on from now.At the same time we saw two different sides of a much similar coin and they were amazing closing scenes that's accompanied the romantic finale.👑
Out Oct,15th 💚
4⭐
Firstly,I want to thank LoveNotes PR & Lyssa Fairbanks for trusting me with this ARC!🌱
Zoe Connors is a chronic winner.
As the last year of med school is not already tricky enough and threatens to end her streak ,Luke Barret and his awful dating skills are here to bet her.
Luke Barrett's favorite bar is ready to be sold and he has one last chance to keep it alive.Time is up for him and apart from having to be quick,love is going to knock his door in the most unexpected way possible.
The Love Medalist is something TOTALLY new to the book industry.THE TROPES?? HELLO,I AM TOTALLY IN!🤏🏻
Literally,I had the best time,with the way everything formed together and at the point of 30% in,your girl could not stop looking at that kindle.Generally,I found brilliant the whole idea behind that book and it is also one of the times that the idea delivered to the fullest!Getting into the writing style,it was easy to follow,pacing altering in between scenes,with the date ones being the best and overall everything was amazingly written.
Our main girl Zoe was a supergirl.(yes,I do not have anything else to describe her)she was an honored, hardworking student,with a certainty and pride higher the mount Everest itself and a beauty worth fighting for.Plus,she is what I can say as a rom-com material.
She was the type of person that would make you laugh till crying point and in the next giggle,while having heart eyes.On the other side,Luke was just trying to manage everything THAT BOY WAS STRESSED OUT & on top of that he had a bet to win,just so funny and at the same time he is just a poor boy (sorry man,but you got your woman at the end).Their overall relationship was really hilarious and lovely at the same time,with the them hoping that they will not fall for each other,but you could see clearly how after every single date the tension was even bigger and bigger between those two until we reached the top and got tangled in bed sheets.
Lastly,I want to point out that apart from having this adorable and amazing rom-com to enjoy,Fairbanks as well point out the importance of families,and let me say especially mum(s),in the story.A big part of both our characters arcs was how the navigated their relationships with those people,how the impacted them and of course they will choose to move on from now.At the same time we saw two different sides of a much similar coin and they were amazing closing scenes that's accompanied the romantic finale.👑
Out Oct,15th 💚
4⭐
June 14, 2026
I finished this ARC in 2 days!!! Keep on writing Lyssa, love this Med Wreck series, everyone pre-order Love Medalist, out in October 2026!!! Loved Zoe and Luke’s story!!!! Lyssa thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC 🥰🫶🏻🙌🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
We are officially back in Blackwell! Love Medalist is the 3rd book in Lyssa’s Med Wreck series, and so far is my favorite of the bunch (although I have a feeling I’m going to really like Amelia’s story in the 4th book!). Book 3 centers on Zoe and Luke, who we met back in Love Medley, and I had high hopes for these two even then. At that time they both seemed so feisty and interesting that I just knew they were going to have a fun story.
The funny thing for me is that the Med Wreck series is probably one of the only series that I continue to read outside of my favorite genres. These are not my typical tropes but somehow this all works! I think Zoe and Luke have the best chemistry so far; their fiery personalities work well together. I did think Zoe was maybe a little over the top every now and then but she balanced it out with her love for her friends and her mother. This might be the first time I’ve read a dating bet trope and I actually ended up really liking this concept and how it involved all the friend groups. Some of my favorite parts of this book were the short little chapters of the date “ratings”! Speaking of, I’d love to know if some of these date ideas are actually real things, because a few of them seemed especially super cool! :)
I received an advanced review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
The funny thing for me is that the Med Wreck series is probably one of the only series that I continue to read outside of my favorite genres. These are not my typical tropes but somehow this all works! I think Zoe and Luke have the best chemistry so far; their fiery personalities work well together. I did think Zoe was maybe a little over the top every now and then but she balanced it out with her love for her friends and her mother. This might be the first time I’ve read a dating bet trope and I actually ended up really liking this concept and how it involved all the friend groups. Some of my favorite parts of this book were the short little chapters of the date “ratings”! Speaking of, I’d love to know if some of these date ideas are actually real things, because a few of them seemed especially super cool! :)
I received an advanced review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
OKAY, WAIT. THIS HAD ME ALL IN MY FEELS. 😭❤️
Starting off with humor, I was immediately hooked! I’ve gone from a hot mess to a spicy disaster with age, so naturally, I absolutely LOVED Zoe. 😂💅🏼 Luke was hilarious and grew on me so quickly!
Then, midway through the book, PANDORA’S BOX OPENS AND WE GET. IT. ALLLLLLLL. 🔥🤯 I won’t spoil a thing, but WOWZA. Some of the lessons in this story are ones I can genuinely apply to my own life, and I love when a book makes you stop and reflect like that.
Relationships, growth, healing, friendship, and learning to call yourself out on your own B.S. 💥💅🏼🔥 This story brought the humor, but it also delivered some seriously powerful emotional moments. I was crying toward the end, and the morals and emotional connections hit HARD.
A book that makes you laugh, makes you cry, and leaves you with a little something to think about afterward? YES, PLEASE! *Immediately adds the rest of the series to my TBR*
Highly recommend! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Starting off with humor, I was immediately hooked! I’ve gone from a hot mess to a spicy disaster with age, so naturally, I absolutely LOVED Zoe. 😂💅🏼 Luke was hilarious and grew on me so quickly!
Then, midway through the book, PANDORA’S BOX OPENS AND WE GET. IT. ALLLLLLLL. 🔥🤯 I won’t spoil a thing, but WOWZA. Some of the lessons in this story are ones I can genuinely apply to my own life, and I love when a book makes you stop and reflect like that.
Relationships, growth, healing, friendship, and learning to call yourself out on your own B.S. 💥💅🏼🔥 This story brought the humor, but it also delivered some seriously powerful emotional moments. I was crying toward the end, and the morals and emotional connections hit HARD.
A book that makes you laugh, makes you cry, and leaves you with a little something to think about afterward? YES, PLEASE! *Immediately adds the rest of the series to my TBR*
Highly recommend! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review of advance copy received from Author
A headstrong med student who might not make it to graduation encounters a cocky bar manager desperate to save his beloved bar. They aren’t the commitment type—and they don’t date anyone more than once, but an impulsive bet just might change everything.
Lyssa Fairbanks’ Love Medley—the third book in her Med Wreck Series—is more than a romance. It’s a tribute to flawed people whose pasts makes them fearful of taking a chance on someone else—but who learn to grow and change despite it. As the MCs Zoe and Luke explore each other through a series of dates and steamy encounters, they discover more about themselves and why they make the choices they make. Their love story was engaging, their dating bet playful and entertaining, and their found family touching. I loved the swoony ending! Add this one to your romance TBR!
Lyssa Fairbanks’ Love Medley—the third book in her Med Wreck Series—is more than a romance. It’s a tribute to flawed people whose pasts makes them fearful of taking a chance on someone else—but who learn to grow and change despite it. As the MCs Zoe and Luke explore each other through a series of dates and steamy encounters, they discover more about themselves and why they make the choices they make. Their love story was engaging, their dating bet playful and entertaining, and their found family touching. I loved the swoony ending! Add this one to your romance TBR!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had a shit eating grin on my face the WHOLE time! I loved every second of it and am waiting in impatient anticipation for book 4 to come.
This is a gorgeous love story, but also just so real. The conflicts they go through including the internal ones make the characters so relatable and loveable 😍😍
This is a gorgeous love story, but also just so real. The conflicts they go through including the internal ones make the characters so relatable and loveable 😍😍
October 6, 2026
Zoe and Luke had me hooked from the start. Their constant teasing, playful one-upmanship, and “I’m definitely going to beat you” energy made their chemistry impossible to ignore. 😏🏆 They were always challenging each other, pushing buttons, and turning every little moment into a competition, but underneath all that rivalry was a genuine connection that had me melting. I also loved seeing their softer sides come through when the walls finally started to come down. 💕 *Love Medalist* is such a fun reminder that love isn’t always about coming out on top—it’s about finding someone who feels almost too good to be true, only to realize they’re exactly that. 🥹📚✨
October 20, 2026
I loved this medical twist on an enemy to lovers story!
Zoe and Luke are both so passionate about their work, their friends and their independence. Through the fun of a date bet to see who can come up with the best dates, they go through their own journeys of finding themselves, forgiveness, while having fun and falling in love. There are many laugh out loud moments, spice and all the feels!
Thank you for the advance reader's copy! This review was written freely and in my own words.
Zoe and Luke are both so passionate about their work, their friends and their independence. Through the fun of a date bet to see who can come up with the best dates, they go through their own journeys of finding themselves, forgiveness, while having fun and falling in love. There are many laugh out loud moments, spice and all the feels!
Thank you for the advance reader's copy! This review was written freely and in my own words.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Zoe and Luke completely captured my heart with their undeniable connection, playful rivalry, and the vulnerability behind their relationship. Love Medalist is a beautiful reminder that sometimes love isn’t about winning. Sometimes it’s someone who seems too good to be true but in reality is just true.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is all the things! A strong outspoken FMC, who loves a mojito. A sweet MMC who falls first. A dating competition for two competitive singles who love to date and hate to lose.
The third book in the MedWreck series has all of my favorite tropes and some great tension. The banter between the two main characters is a breath of fresh air. Not to mention the steam that comes with all the banter!
A wonderful continuation of the Med Wreck series!
The third book in the MedWreck series has all of my favorite tropes and some great tension. The banter between the two main characters is a breath of fresh air. Not to mention the steam that comes with all the banter!
A wonderful continuation of the Med Wreck series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2026
I will never not hype up a Lyssa Fairbanks release. Fresh on a swearing-off-love pact with her friends, Zoe finds herself in a competition with Luke over who can plan the best date. Luke is trying to save the bar that played such a big role in his life; can he afford the distraction of a fiery redhead who will do anything to win? Will either of them be able to keep their hearts to themselves in the process?
I think we all know the answer to that, but the journey to get there is absolutely wonderful. Fairbanks once again gives us a story full of characters who pop off the page. She is the queen of the character arc with characters who have to work on themselves as individuals before they can work on themselves in a couple, which is my favorite trope if I’m being entirely honest.
The romance is sweet and spicy and had me giggling and kicking my feet. While this third installment in the Med Wrecked series certainly stands on its own, it’s such a satisfying culmination of Luke and Zoe’s respective (and joint) stories. Despite releasing three (3!!!) books in a year, you can see Fairbank’s passion for her craft as each book is better than the last. I’m so excited to see what she has in store for the final installment of this series
I think we all know the answer to that, but the journey to get there is absolutely wonderful. Fairbanks once again gives us a story full of characters who pop off the page. She is the queen of the character arc with characters who have to work on themselves as individuals before they can work on themselves in a couple, which is my favorite trope if I’m being entirely honest.
The romance is sweet and spicy and had me giggling and kicking my feet. While this third installment in the Med Wrecked series certainly stands on its own, it’s such a satisfying culmination of Luke and Zoe’s respective (and joint) stories. Despite releasing three (3!!!) books in a year, you can see Fairbank’s passion for her craft as each book is better than the last. I’m so excited to see what she has in store for the final installment of this series
Review of advance copy received from Author
STEM FMC: medical student focusing in anesthesia
This book was so much fun! The date competition made their activities so lively and full of banter! I'm big on unique dates and love to plan them myself, so it was cool to see what they got up to over the course of their bet. Escape room dates for the win! Although most of this book was a great time, I will warn you that the third act is absolutely gut wrenching. Come prepared with kleenex.
This is the third book in the series, and although I think you can probably get away with reading it as a standalone, I don't recommend it. This series follows two friend groups, and their timelines sort of overlap and intertwine. As you read the series, you get more and more of their personalities and interpersonal relationships. At the very least, I recommend reading Love Medley (book 1) before this one, so you get a better introduction to all of the characters, and you get this book's MCs' original first meeting in real time.
Overall, it's well written, there's good character arcs, and there's some fun spice!
This book was so much fun! The date competition made their activities so lively and full of banter! I'm big on unique dates and love to plan them myself, so it was cool to see what they got up to over the course of their bet. Escape room dates for the win! Although most of this book was a great time, I will warn you that the third act is absolutely gut wrenching. Come prepared with kleenex.
This is the third book in the series, and although I think you can probably get away with reading it as a standalone, I don't recommend it. This series follows two friend groups, and their timelines sort of overlap and intertwine. As you read the series, you get more and more of their personalities and interpersonal relationships. At the very least, I recommend reading Love Medley (book 1) before this one, so you get a better introduction to all of the characters, and you get this book's MCs' original first meeting in real time.
Overall, it's well written, there's good character arcs, and there's some fun spice!
October 23, 2026
🏆 They Came to Win the Date, but Their Hearts Had Other Plans ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars | 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3 Chili Peppers
Nothing makes a romance more entertaining than two people insisting they have everything under control when they very clearly DO NOT! 😂❤️
And let me tell you, Zoe Connors and Luke Barrett had me laughing, swooning, and eventually getting a little emotional over their story!
Love Medalist is the third book in Lyssa Fairbanks' Med Wreck series, and what a fun return to Blackwell and this wonderful group of friends!
A fiercely competitive medical student, a charming bar manager, and a wager to see who can plan the better date?
Oh, this was going to be good!
Zoe Connors is smart, ambitious, fiercely independent, and accustomed to being successful at just about everything she does. She's in her final year of medical school, and her confidence and competitive streak are definitely two of her most entertaining qualities.
But when an incident at the hospital puts her on probation and sends her to the Pain Clinic, Zoe suddenly finds herself facing challenges she can't simply overcome by being the best.
And I really enjoyed seeing that side of her character develop.
She's stubborn, outspoken, and sometimes a little too determined to prove herself, but there's also so much more to Zoe than the confident woman she presents to everyone around her.
Then there's Luke Barrett.
Oh, Luke! ❤️
He's charming, funny, easygoing, and has absolutely no intention of getting involved in anything serious.
Or at least that's what he keeps telling himself!
Luke is managing a piano bar that means so much to him, but with the possibility of the business being sold and his sister dealing with health problems, he's carrying a lot more stress than his carefree personality suggests.
I loved that there was more to him than his flirting and charming smile.
He's someone who cares deeply about the people in his life, even if he's not always comfortable letting others see his own struggles.
And when these two decide to make a little wager over who can plan the best date?
LET THE GAMES BEGIN! 🏆😂
Honestly, the dating competition was one of my favorite parts of this book!
Zoe and Luke are both so competitive that neither wants to give the other the satisfaction of winning.
The teasing, the playful one-upmanship, and the creative dates made their relationship so entertaining to follow.
And those little chapters featuring the date ratings?
SUCH a fun touch!
I loved seeing how seriously they took their little competition, especially when it became increasingly obvious that neither was quite as unaffected as they wanted to pretend.
Because somewhere between trying to outdo each other and spending more time together, those dates started becoming about something much bigger than winning.
And I was absolutely here for it! ❤️
Their chemistry was fantastic!
Zoe and Luke have such fiery personalities, and I loved how naturally their banter flowed. They challenged each other, pushed each other's buttons, and somehow managed to make even their disagreements entertaining.
But what made their relationship special for me was seeing those playful moments gradually give way to something more meaningful.
Neither of them was particularly interested in opening their heart to another person.
Both had their own reasons for keeping relationships at a distance.
And watching them begin to understand those reasons, confront their pasts, and take accountability for their choices added so much depth to their romance.
I especially appreciated that their character growth wasn't simply about becoming better partners.
They were also learning how to become happier, healthier versions of themselves.
Zoe had to recognize that her worth wasn't determined by how often she succeeded, while Luke had to confront some of the emotional walls he'd built around himself.
And I loved that they challenged each other to grow without losing the personalities that made them so much fun in the first place.
Now, I went into this expecting plenty of laughs, flirting, and swoony moments.
And believe me, I got all of that!
But I wasn't entirely prepared for how emotional this story would become. 🥹❤️
The family relationships played such an important role in both Zoe's and Luke's journeys.
There were complicated feelings, difficult conversations, and moments that really made me think about how our past experiences can influence the people we become.
I loved how the story explored friendship, family, forgiveness, and learning to recognize when we need to make changes in our own lives.
And that final stretch?
Oh, my heart!
Without giving anything away, there were some genuinely emotional moments that added another layer to what had already been such an entertaining romance.
I also loved being back with this friend group!
One of the things I enjoy about interconnected series is seeing familiar characters again and watching their friendships continue to develop alongside the new romance.
That sense of connection made Zoe and Luke's story feel even more special.
Five stars from me! Love Medalist was such a fun, swoony, and surprisingly emotional romance that gave me everything I wanted and then some.
The creative dates, the hilarious banter, the undeniable chemistry, and those little date-rating chapters made this story stand out.
But it was the personal growth, meaningful family relationships, and emotional moments that made me love it even more.
Zoe and Luke may have started out trying to prove who could plan the better date, but watching them realize that love isn't something you win was the sweetest part of all.
Lyssa Fairbanks gave me plenty of reasons to smile, a few moments that tugged at my heart, and another couple I was so happy to cheer for!
And honestly, any romance that can make me laugh one minute and get emotional the next is exactly my kind of read! 🥹❤️
Thank you to Lyssa Fairbanks and Love Notes PR for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars | 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3 Chili Peppers
Nothing makes a romance more entertaining than two people insisting they have everything under control when they very clearly DO NOT! 😂❤️
And let me tell you, Zoe Connors and Luke Barrett had me laughing, swooning, and eventually getting a little emotional over their story!
Love Medalist is the third book in Lyssa Fairbanks' Med Wreck series, and what a fun return to Blackwell and this wonderful group of friends!
A fiercely competitive medical student, a charming bar manager, and a wager to see who can plan the better date?
Oh, this was going to be good!
Zoe Connors is smart, ambitious, fiercely independent, and accustomed to being successful at just about everything she does. She's in her final year of medical school, and her confidence and competitive streak are definitely two of her most entertaining qualities.
But when an incident at the hospital puts her on probation and sends her to the Pain Clinic, Zoe suddenly finds herself facing challenges she can't simply overcome by being the best.
And I really enjoyed seeing that side of her character develop.
She's stubborn, outspoken, and sometimes a little too determined to prove herself, but there's also so much more to Zoe than the confident woman she presents to everyone around her.
Then there's Luke Barrett.
Oh, Luke! ❤️
He's charming, funny, easygoing, and has absolutely no intention of getting involved in anything serious.
Or at least that's what he keeps telling himself!
Luke is managing a piano bar that means so much to him, but with the possibility of the business being sold and his sister dealing with health problems, he's carrying a lot more stress than his carefree personality suggests.
I loved that there was more to him than his flirting and charming smile.
He's someone who cares deeply about the people in his life, even if he's not always comfortable letting others see his own struggles.
And when these two decide to make a little wager over who can plan the best date?
LET THE GAMES BEGIN! 🏆😂
Honestly, the dating competition was one of my favorite parts of this book!
Zoe and Luke are both so competitive that neither wants to give the other the satisfaction of winning.
The teasing, the playful one-upmanship, and the creative dates made their relationship so entertaining to follow.
And those little chapters featuring the date ratings?
SUCH a fun touch!
I loved seeing how seriously they took their little competition, especially when it became increasingly obvious that neither was quite as unaffected as they wanted to pretend.
Because somewhere between trying to outdo each other and spending more time together, those dates started becoming about something much bigger than winning.
And I was absolutely here for it! ❤️
Their chemistry was fantastic!
Zoe and Luke have such fiery personalities, and I loved how naturally their banter flowed. They challenged each other, pushed each other's buttons, and somehow managed to make even their disagreements entertaining.
But what made their relationship special for me was seeing those playful moments gradually give way to something more meaningful.
Neither of them was particularly interested in opening their heart to another person.
Both had their own reasons for keeping relationships at a distance.
And watching them begin to understand those reasons, confront their pasts, and take accountability for their choices added so much depth to their romance.
I especially appreciated that their character growth wasn't simply about becoming better partners.
They were also learning how to become happier, healthier versions of themselves.
Zoe had to recognize that her worth wasn't determined by how often she succeeded, while Luke had to confront some of the emotional walls he'd built around himself.
And I loved that they challenged each other to grow without losing the personalities that made them so much fun in the first place.
Now, I went into this expecting plenty of laughs, flirting, and swoony moments.
And believe me, I got all of that!
But I wasn't entirely prepared for how emotional this story would become. 🥹❤️
The family relationships played such an important role in both Zoe's and Luke's journeys.
There were complicated feelings, difficult conversations, and moments that really made me think about how our past experiences can influence the people we become.
I loved how the story explored friendship, family, forgiveness, and learning to recognize when we need to make changes in our own lives.
And that final stretch?
Oh, my heart!
Without giving anything away, there were some genuinely emotional moments that added another layer to what had already been such an entertaining romance.
I also loved being back with this friend group!
One of the things I enjoy about interconnected series is seeing familiar characters again and watching their friendships continue to develop alongside the new romance.
That sense of connection made Zoe and Luke's story feel even more special.
Five stars from me! Love Medalist was such a fun, swoony, and surprisingly emotional romance that gave me everything I wanted and then some.
The creative dates, the hilarious banter, the undeniable chemistry, and those little date-rating chapters made this story stand out.
But it was the personal growth, meaningful family relationships, and emotional moments that made me love it even more.
Zoe and Luke may have started out trying to prove who could plan the better date, but watching them realize that love isn't something you win was the sweetest part of all.
Lyssa Fairbanks gave me plenty of reasons to smile, a few moments that tugged at my heart, and another couple I was so happy to cheer for!
And honestly, any romance that can make me laugh one minute and get emotional the next is exactly my kind of read! 🥹❤️
Thank you to Lyssa Fairbanks and Love Notes PR for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 27, 2026
If you read the first book, then you get a little bit of glimpse of the beginning of Luke and Zoe, and you can tell just by their first interaction they would come around to each other. They are both super competitive of course they’re gonna turn dating into who can do it better. Both have so much trauma from past relationships and daddy issues out the zoo that of course gets in each one of their heads. Zoe can throw some daggers. It leads to a little bit of drama, but it works out well for both of them in the end. Sure, she was a total b*tch and some could say unforgivable but, as long as she doesn’t make a pattern it can be fixed. She totally takes accountability for her fuck up and a lot of people don’t do that these days.
I don’t feel like you need to read the first two books to read this, but it definitely helps with some context.
I don’t feel like you need to read the first two books to read this, but it definitely helps with some context.
October 17, 2026
Luke Barrett is a charming and laid back and seemingly everyone's favorite person. He's mastered the art of keeping relationships casual. But beneath that easygoing exterior is a man carrying more responsibility than he lets on. With his dream of owning the piano bar hanging in the balance and his sister's health deteriorating, Luke is facing challenges he can't simply smile his way through.
Meet Zoe Connors she is a brilliant, an ambitious medical student who has built her life around success, control, and keeping her emotions firmly under lock and key. She's used to winning, but when a moment of anger lands her on probation and sends her to the hospital's Pain Clinic, she finds herself in an environment that challenges everything she thought she knew about herself.
What happens when these two meet? A wager, of course because apparently the best way to deal with attraction is to turn it into a competition only these two. The date planning challenge is so much fun especially with two people who are used to being in control and absolutely hate the idea of losing.
Zoe and Luke both use different methods to protect themselves. She hides behind ambition and the need to win, while he keeps things light and temporary so nobody gets close enough to hurt him. They're different in so many ways yet their fears are similar. Watching them move from trying to outdo each other to genuinely opening up to one another.
Zoe's journey toward understanding herself and Luke's struggle to protect the life he's worked so hard to build gives this story more than just romantic tension. There's personal growth, family pressure, difficult decisions, and the reminder that even the people who seem to have everything together are often fighting battles nobody else can see.
Meet Zoe Connors she is a brilliant, an ambitious medical student who has built her life around success, control, and keeping her emotions firmly under lock and key. She's used to winning, but when a moment of anger lands her on probation and sends her to the hospital's Pain Clinic, she finds herself in an environment that challenges everything she thought she knew about herself.
What happens when these two meet? A wager, of course because apparently the best way to deal with attraction is to turn it into a competition only these two. The date planning challenge is so much fun especially with two people who are used to being in control and absolutely hate the idea of losing.
Zoe and Luke both use different methods to protect themselves. She hides behind ambition and the need to win, while he keeps things light and temporary so nobody gets close enough to hurt him. They're different in so many ways yet their fears are similar. Watching them move from trying to outdo each other to genuinely opening up to one another.
Zoe's journey toward understanding herself and Luke's struggle to protect the life he's worked so hard to build gives this story more than just romantic tension. There's personal growth, family pressure, difficult decisions, and the reminder that even the people who seem to have everything together are often fighting battles nobody else can see.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Folks, we're back with another INCREDIBLE and AMAZING installation of Blackwell's finest!!!! The third book in the saga and let me tell you, Lyssa Fairbanks is on FIRE. We get to see Zoe and Luke's first interaction all the way back in book 1 and getting to finally see their stories on the page is just the best. The dating competition and all the fun dates they go on had me giggling and kicking my feet! I will definitely be trying to reenact some of these dates with my husband!! The banter, the competition, the stakes, it is just perfection. Lyssa created PERFECTION!!
Read the first two books, they're incredible and understanding the friend group and the environment these characters are in just make every single story so wonderful. Lyssa is SO talented and created this world that I am always so thrilled to dive back into.
Lyssa, thank you again for giving me more of this world!!! I am truly so obsessed with the Med Wreck series!!!! No amount of stars is enough, 10, 20, 1000000000000 stars for Love Medalist!!!!!!
Read the first two books, they're incredible and understanding the friend group and the environment these characters are in just make every single story so wonderful. Lyssa is SO talented and created this world that I am always so thrilled to dive back into.
Lyssa, thank you again for giving me more of this world!!! I am truly so obsessed with the Med Wreck series!!!! No amount of stars is enough, 10, 20, 1000000000000 stars for Love Medalist!!!!!!
October 18, 2026
ARC review
Anecdotal thoughts while reading
Book 3 in the series; I have not read the prior 2.
Zoe and Luke - MMCs
Lucy's situation mentioned in the Prologue has me interested in reading the prior books.
..."but I don’t need to pick a poison. I’m the poison, and you’re the one that needs to watch out.” Ah snap! 😆 Luke, you don't know what just happened.
Well, I guess bedside manner isn't for all.
Moving to be near sister ... what's the story there?
Harper and Luke?? What's situation?
Zoe, you need to watch those inside thoughts and lock them up tight.
Why did Harper's mom lie about the 🏥 reason?
I got the 1st clue easy, 2nd one not so much. Fail for me.
👨🍳 👩🍳
There went that rule down the drain.
🛌 + 😢 + 🫂 = 👋 + 🚪
App results so far - Luke 1, Zoe 2
The anger, guilt, denial, self-sabotage spiral is real and $UCKS!
If Amelia would have rated the tactical experience, Luke may have pulled out a win.
What is going on with Amelia? Thought the girl group was checking on that....
Wonder what the new plan for TNT is
Anecdotal thoughts while reading
Book 3 in the series; I have not read the prior 2.
Zoe and Luke - MMCs
Lucy's situation mentioned in the Prologue has me interested in reading the prior books.
..."but I don’t need to pick a poison. I’m the poison, and you’re the one that needs to watch out.” Ah snap! 😆 Luke, you don't know what just happened.
Well, I guess bedside manner isn't for all.
Moving to be near sister ... what's the story there?
Harper and Luke?? What's situation?
Zoe, you need to watch those inside thoughts and lock them up tight.
Why did Harper's mom lie about the 🏥 reason?
I got the 1st clue easy, 2nd one not so much. Fail for me.
👨🍳 👩🍳
There went that rule down the drain.
🛌 + 😢 + 🫂 = 👋 + 🚪
App results so far - Luke 1, Zoe 2
The anger, guilt, denial, self-sabotage spiral is real and $UCKS!
If Amelia would have rated the tactical experience, Luke may have pulled out a win.
What is going on with Amelia? Thought the girl group was checking on that....
Wonder what the new plan for TNT is
October 16, 2026
This is the first book I have read from this author. Also first book in the series I've read, but lucky for me it can be read as a standalone. I won't lie it did take a bit to get into this one. I was a little skeptical at first if this was a book for me. Zoe is a little rough around the edges. I'm so glad I did read this one because I ended up enjoying it. I mean these characters had tears forming in my eyes by the end. Zoe and Luke won me over. I loved getting to know them as they got to know one another on their four date challenge. They each have a core group of friends that is like a found family. One big lesson that Luke learns and I need to take to heart is it's okay to ask for help. Trust me it's so hard, but handling everything on your own will burn you out. Zoe needs to not her past disappointments put Luke in the same category because she may mean on missing out on a future worth having. I loved where these two end up. Reading the epilogue made my heart so happy!
October 22, 2026
Thank you Love Notes PR and Lyssa Fairbanks for the ARC of Love Medalist.
I see that most reviewers so far really liked the book, and I wanted so much to love it as well. But for some reason, I just didn't. I thought the premise of the dating bet sounded kind of fun. But it felt like the first half of the book was a little slow with too many unnecessary scenes and descriptions. So I got a bit bored. But I powered through and ended up liking the book more towards the end. Though I couldn't let go of how annoyed I was with both main characters for their lack of communication about their feelings and the hangups from their pasts (until about 80% through the book). But if that's your jam, I'm sure you will love this book, because it was well-written.
I feel a bit bad, but I can't give more than 2.5 stars when I had to force myself to finish the book.
I see that most reviewers so far really liked the book, and I wanted so much to love it as well. But for some reason, I just didn't. I thought the premise of the dating bet sounded kind of fun. But it felt like the first half of the book was a little slow with too many unnecessary scenes and descriptions. So I got a bit bored. But I powered through and ended up liking the book more towards the end. Though I couldn't let go of how annoyed I was with both main characters for their lack of communication about their feelings and the hangups from their pasts (until about 80% through the book). But if that's your jam, I'm sure you will love this book, because it was well-written.
I feel a bit bad, but I can't give more than 2.5 stars when I had to force myself to finish the book.
October 23, 2026
Love Medalist is an ideal read for autumn, warm and cozy without being overly saccharine.
The central premise is a lot of fun: a friendly bet to see who can plan the best date creates great momentum, especially with the classic dynamic of two leads who are clearly into each other from page one while desperately pretending it's casual. Beneath the banter, though, the subplot really gives the book its backbone. The author handles mental health and past trauma with care, showing how old wounds realistically bleed into current relationships and decision-making.
My only real critique is that the spice level felt a bit overdone for the story; I would have preferred more focus on the emotional intimacy over the sheer volume of explicit scenes.
Still, it’s a solid, engaging romance overall.
The central premise is a lot of fun: a friendly bet to see who can plan the best date creates great momentum, especially with the classic dynamic of two leads who are clearly into each other from page one while desperately pretending it's casual. Beneath the banter, though, the subplot really gives the book its backbone. The author handles mental health and past trauma with care, showing how old wounds realistically bleed into current relationships and decision-making.
My only real critique is that the spice level felt a bit overdone for the story; I would have preferred more focus on the emotional intimacy over the sheer volume of explicit scenes.
Still, it’s a solid, engaging romance overall.
October 21, 2026
This book was a fun book! This is one of the first books where the bet doesn’t end up badly. I really enjoyed their bet and how fun their dates were. I felt like I was on the journey with them.
I really appreciated the side story about Harper and her medical condition… it felt like a real life experience as I have seen so many people pretend they are ok when they really aren’t.
I liked how Zoe and Luke both work through their trauma as they go on this journey.
I also loved the side bet between Luke’s friend. It made me laugh!
This book is perfect for those who love a friendly wager and friends who are shipping them before the main characters know.
I really appreciated the side story about Harper and her medical condition… it felt like a real life experience as I have seen so many people pretend they are ok when they really aren’t.
I liked how Zoe and Luke both work through their trauma as they go on this journey.
I also loved the side bet between Luke’s friend. It made me laugh!
This book is perfect for those who love a friendly wager and friends who are shipping them before the main characters know.
Review of advance copy
okay, so initially I read the first page and I thought I was going to DNF. I didn't think I could see past the cockiness of the writing. but I am so glad I didn't and I continued to read this
I loved Zoe. she was an girl who knew her worth and her skills and I was really here for it..the love story between her and luke absoutly captivated me and I really enjoyed this
I'm now going to go and read the rest of this series because lyssa Fairbanks absoutly smashed this and I want to enjoy more of what she has written!.
thank you for this arc!!!
I loved Zoe. she was an girl who knew her worth and her skills and I was really here for it..the love story between her and luke absoutly captivated me and I really enjoyed this
I'm now going to go and read the rest of this series because lyssa Fairbanks absoutly smashed this and I want to enjoy more of what she has written!.
thank you for this arc!!!
October 15, 2026
It's been about a month since I read book 2, and I was so happy to get back to the characters in this series. LOVE MEDALIST follows Luke and Zoe, and from the previous two books, we knew there would be something between these two. We just didn't know how it would start. Well, it starts with a bet. The banter in this book is amazing, and all the feelings come out. I absolutely love this series and all the characters inside. You can read this book as a standalone, but to get the full view of all the wonderful characters I definitely recommend reading #LoveMedley and #LoveDramedy.
October 22, 2026
This was such a fun story with Zoe and Luke. She was one heck of a firecracker. So determined and exact in everything she did. Then add Luke into the equation and we’ve got full on crazy fun. These two had me laughing. Stubborn and silly, watching these two and their competition. It was great when the two of them started falling for one another and realizing hire ridiculous they were being. This was such a fun and sweet story. Absolutely loved these two..
October 20, 2026
ARC Review <3
I did actually quite enjoy this book, the characters were funny and I liked the plot. I just wish I read the other books first (which is my own fault). It felt difficult to catch up with who was who and what happened previously. Overall, a pretty enjoyable read :) I’d just recommend reading the other books first !!
I did actually quite enjoy this book, the characters were funny and I liked the plot. I just wish I read the other books first (which is my own fault). It felt difficult to catch up with who was who and what happened previously. Overall, a pretty enjoyable read :) I’d just recommend reading the other books first !!
October 22, 2026
I did think this story was absolutely hilarious. I like competitive characters but sometimes it takes me out of the book when that feels like the main focus, which this book did. Overall, I enjoyed it but struggled to get past some parts about the competition.
October 15, 2026
Very sweet story, I love the idea of the bet and the way Trix set up the app was a great story telling device.
October 22, 2026
This book was definitely worth reading!
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