What do you think?
Rate this book
Star Harbor #3
Beneath the Frost: Star Harbor, Book 3
Weston Vaughn has always been the most charming man in any room—until he saved my brother’s life and the accident took his leg. Now he’s a gruff recluse and my new roommate.
After my life goes up in flames on my wedding day, I become my small town’s favorite scandal. I want to lie low while the gossip dies down, but living with my parents feels impossible. Moving in with my brother’s best friend is my best option.
He won’t ask for help and I won’t be dismissed. Trouble is, I like this gruff side of Wes, and despite his rules, I enjoy showing up for him. He’s adjusting to his new life, and when he finally admits his confidence is shot, well . . . I know exactly what he needs.
I’m a hands-on kind of caretaker.
Tensions rise as our tentative arrangement melts into sexy, forbidden lessons aimed to rebuild the confidence he’s lost. He thinks he’s broken, but all I see is an irresistible man with a firm grip and a filthy mouth.
He’s walled off his heart, but all it takes is a woman who’s willing to see what lies beneath the frost.
After my life goes up in flames on my wedding day, I become my small town’s favorite scandal. I want to lie low while the gossip dies down, but living with my parents feels impossible. Moving in with my brother’s best friend is my best option.
He won’t ask for help and I won’t be dismissed. Trouble is, I like this gruff side of Wes, and despite his rules, I enjoy showing up for him. He’s adjusting to his new life, and when he finally admits his confidence is shot, well . . . I know exactly what he needs.
I’m a hands-on kind of caretaker.
Tensions rise as our tentative arrangement melts into sexy, forbidden lessons aimed to rebuild the confidence he’s lost. He thinks he’s broken, but all I see is an irresistible man with a firm grip and a filthy mouth.
He’s walled off his heart, but all it takes is a woman who’s willing to see what lies beneath the frost.
Audible Audio
First published April 30, 2026
About the author
Lena Hendrix
35 books4,306 followersLena Hendrix is a USA Today and Amazon Top 5 bestselling contemporary romance author living in the Midwest. Her love for romance started with sneaking racy Harlequin paperbacks as a teenager and now she writes her own hot-as-sin small town romance novels. Lena has a soft spot for strong alphas with marshmallow insides, heroines who clap back, and sizzling tension. Her novels pack in small town heart with a whole lotta heat.
When she's not writing or devouring new novels, you can find her hiking, camping, fishing, and sipping a spicy margarita!
Want to hang out? Find Lena on FB, Tiktok or IG!
When she's not writing or devouring new novels, you can find her hiking, camping, fishing, and sipping a spicy margarita!
Want to hang out? Find Lena on FB, Tiktok or IG!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 464 reviews
April 20, 2026
The gum wrapper 🫠
Lena Hendrix could write a grocery list and I’d eat it up.
Wes.
Wes…
Wes…..🔥
I absolutely loved him.
Amputee (recent)
Grumpy/recluse/closed off
In need of a “helper”
Gosh my heart hurt for him.
Enter Clara Darling✨
Runaway bride
Return to small hometown
Feelings of loss of self
Vibrant and loud
Girl finds her self worth
Roommates hey! Forced proximity
His best friends sister
Lessons 🌶️
Rules, that we just love to break.
Oh I loved these two together.
The emotional damage I felt at times.
The big gesture had me melting.
Arc review ✨
Lena Hendrix could write a grocery list and I’d eat it up.
Wes.
Wes…
Wes…..🔥
I absolutely loved him.
Amputee (recent)
Grumpy/recluse/closed off
In need of a “helper”
Gosh my heart hurt for him.
Enter Clara Darling✨
Runaway bride
Return to small hometown
Feelings of loss of self
Vibrant and loud
Girl finds her self worth
Roommates hey! Forced proximity
His best friends sister
Lessons 🌶️
Rules, that we just love to break.
Oh I loved these two together.
The emotional damage I felt at times.
The big gesture had me melting.
Arc review ✨
June 10, 2026
Incredibly disappointed with the excessive use of AI to write this book. The plot had potential to be so sweet and tender and it is what drew me in from some teasers posted on her Instagram. When I saw the cover art designed by a real person (and credited) I had high hopes for a beautiful story. About 30% in it was very clear the author utilized an insane amount of AI to write the story. Between the excessive use of metaphors in her dialogue that was just nonsensical word vomit, to the descriptions of scenery that also didn’t make sense (just a lot of pretty-sounding words but together by a machine to sound elegant and missed the mark.) it was so disappointing. I would love to see this plot line done by an author that would write it themselves with a human brain and not a computer. Typically I give these books a single-star rating but due to the plot idea and for the author not utilizing AI to design the cover and allegedly paid a graphic designer for their time, I was more generous with the rating. But this has eliminated the option for my reading the rest of this author’s backlog.
May 1, 2026
The problem with this book is . . The pacing. The background building. It was lacking. We barely get a glimpse of her and Greg and no resolution there either. I guess they just fall out of each others lives? This felt very much like a tell vs show book. We’re told the FMC and MMC grew up together but I didn’t feel that. I did feel the tension, the sexual tension was good. The resulting seg scenes were mid tier, I wanted more. I also couldn’t care at all about the weird town ghost story if the dunes lady. Maybe the prior books gave more context but it felt out of left field slotted into this story. The begging half was too slow. I skimmed and skipped. Also, why can’t we get a description of what anyone looks like? I’m guessing what the MMC looks like based on the cover but FMC was only briefly alluded to and that made it hard to imagine.
April 26, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
I had been waiting for Wes’s story, and it absolutely delivered. Having seen him lingering in the background of earlier books, I knew he needed the right person to come in and bring him back to life, and Clara was exactly that person.
At first, I was a little unsure about Clara because she’s so used to living her life based on what others expect of her. But watching her growth and the way she gently pushes Wes to rediscover himself was so satisfying. She never overpowers him, she just meets him where he is and helps him find his way forward.
Wes’s journey hit hard. His experience as an amputee and the internal struggles he faces felt incredibly real. Some of the darker moments were tough to read, but they added so much authenticity and depth to his character. It made his healing and growth even more meaningful.
And the “sex lessons”? Immediately yes. From the second that trope showed up, I knew it wouldn’t stay casual for long. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and watching them fall for each other felt natural and inevitable in the best way. They truly are a perfect match.
Also, I will never get tired of Star Harbor. The small town charm, the familiar faces, the cozy vibes it just feels like coming home. I already can’t wait to go back.
I had been waiting for Wes’s story, and it absolutely delivered. Having seen him lingering in the background of earlier books, I knew he needed the right person to come in and bring him back to life, and Clara was exactly that person.
At first, I was a little unsure about Clara because she’s so used to living her life based on what others expect of her. But watching her growth and the way she gently pushes Wes to rediscover himself was so satisfying. She never overpowers him, she just meets him where he is and helps him find his way forward.
Wes’s journey hit hard. His experience as an amputee and the internal struggles he faces felt incredibly real. Some of the darker moments were tough to read, but they added so much authenticity and depth to his character. It made his healing and growth even more meaningful.
And the “sex lessons”? Immediately yes. From the second that trope showed up, I knew it wouldn’t stay casual for long. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and watching them fall for each other felt natural and inevitable in the best way. They truly are a perfect match.
Also, I will never get tired of Star Harbor. The small town charm, the familiar faces, the cozy vibes it just feels like coming home. I already can’t wait to go back.
May 1, 2026
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I love this one so much. I’m a Lena Hendrix Stan through and through, and this book was just a combination of all the things that make me love her.
You know when you love everything an author does, and then you read a book that just special and you can’t put it down? Well that was this book for me.
✨ Small Town
✨ Brother’s Best Friend
✨ Runaway Bride
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Injury recovery
✨ Grumpy x Sunshine
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I love this one so much. I’m a Lena Hendrix Stan through and through, and this book was just a combination of all the things that make me love her.
You know when you love everything an author does, and then you read a book that just special and you can’t put it down? Well that was this book for me.
✨ Small Town
✨ Brother’s Best Friend
✨ Runaway Bride
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Injury recovery
✨ Grumpy x Sunshine
April 11, 2026
An absolute 10 out of 10. A million stars. No notes 👏🏼
Working with Lena has been the joy of a lifetime. But her stories will never fail to bring me ALL OF THE EMOTIONS AT ONE TIME. I never wanted this one to end.
My loves. My angels. My sweet broken boy and my sunshine angel girl. Oh, how I love them so.
Clara is coming home after years avoiding her family and small town. She's a runaway bride who is ready to stop living her life the way she thinks others want her to. Now, it's for her.
Weston is working on finding his new normal. He's a veteran and a contractor, but when he loses his leg in a freak accident, he loses his identity to the accident as well. He's angry and in pain and fires every nurse that is hired to help him. So when Clara volunteers herself, and doesn't really give him a choice, they're forced into one house with so much sexual tension and pain.
Weston is raw and real and it's something I loved about him so deeply. His fears were understandable. His pain was obvious. He hid behind walls and avoided his friends because he didn't want to be seen as weak. Clara is the sun in his life. She brightens his home again after living in darkness for so long. She doesn't see Weston as project to work on or an issue to solve. She recognizes his pain and helps find ways to push him out of his comfort zone.
I am so thankful I had the chance to read this and I can't wait for everyone to love on them as much as I do!
Working with Lena has been the joy of a lifetime. But her stories will never fail to bring me ALL OF THE EMOTIONS AT ONE TIME. I never wanted this one to end.
My loves. My angels. My sweet broken boy and my sunshine angel girl. Oh, how I love them so.
Clara is coming home after years avoiding her family and small town. She's a runaway bride who is ready to stop living her life the way she thinks others want her to. Now, it's for her.
Weston is working on finding his new normal. He's a veteran and a contractor, but when he loses his leg in a freak accident, he loses his identity to the accident as well. He's angry and in pain and fires every nurse that is hired to help him. So when Clara volunteers herself, and doesn't really give him a choice, they're forced into one house with so much sexual tension and pain.
Weston is raw and real and it's something I loved about him so deeply. His fears were understandable. His pain was obvious. He hid behind walls and avoided his friends because he didn't want to be seen as weak. Clara is the sun in his life. She brightens his home again after living in darkness for so long. She doesn't see Weston as project to work on or an issue to solve. She recognizes his pain and helps find ways to push him out of his comfort zone.
I am so thankful I had the chance to read this and I can't wait for everyone to love on them as much as I do!
May 2, 2026
LENAAAAA I love them 😩♥️
Clara comes home after avoiding her family in her small town. Weston is a veteran that loses his leg in an accident saving her brother.
Weston is a grump to the max and fires every nurse that is hired to help him adjust to his new life. So when Clara volunteers herself to help him after her brother voices concerns for his friend, they truly didn’t expect to fall for each other.
Spicy lessons, brothers best friend and some amazing character growth in both characters all make this book so enjoyable!!
Runaway Bride •Small Town• Brother’s best friend• disability & mental health rep • Spicy lessons • Roommates
Clara comes home after avoiding her family in her small town. Weston is a veteran that loses his leg in an accident saving her brother.
Weston is a grump to the max and fires every nurse that is hired to help him adjust to his new life. So when Clara volunteers herself to help him after her brother voices concerns for his friend, they truly didn’t expect to fall for each other.
Spicy lessons, brothers best friend and some amazing character growth in both characters all make this book so enjoyable!!
Runaway Bride •Small Town• Brother’s best friend• disability & mental health rep • Spicy lessons • Roommates
May 11, 2026
I. Am. Obsessed.
I was so excited for Wes’s book and Clara was the perfect FMC for him. I love their quiet understanding, their friendship and the way they push each other. I all the things while reading it and will be recommending it VERY often.
Read this when you’re in the mood for…
- best friends brother
- disability rep
- roommates
- spicy lessons (from her)
- grumpy/sunshine
- runaway bride (lavender marriage)
I was so excited for Wes’s book and Clara was the perfect FMC for him. I love their quiet understanding, their friendship and the way they push each other. I all the things while reading it and will be recommending it VERY often.
Read this when you’re in the mood for…
- best friends brother
- disability rep
- roommates
- spicy lessons (from her)
- grumpy/sunshine
- runaway bride (lavender marriage)
May 7, 2026
Lena Hendrix writes so beautifully that even when a book doesn’t fully hit for me, I still enjoy being in her worlds. And I did enjoy this one — the Darling siblings are always compelling, and Clara and Wes had so much potential. But even though the execution ultimately came together, several things kept this from being a solid read.
Clara was the standout. I loved how she pushed Wes without pitying him or treating him like he was fragile because of his amputation. Wes needed someone who saw him as a whole person, not a tragedy, and Clara did that effortlessly. Their mutual attraction is clear from the start, and the roommates‑to‑lovers setup made sense for where they both were in life.
Wes’s grumpiness, though understandable, wore thin. What balanced it was Clara refusing to let him steamroll her — she held her boundaries, and her presence genuinely helped him. Wes, in turn, gave Clara a kind of emotional support she’d never had in her previous lavender relationship. Their dynamic had real promise.
Their chemistry is strong — their first intimate moment without touching was hotter than most full scenes in other romances — and when they finally sleep together, it’s both steamy and tender. But the “lessons” framing felt unnecessary and actually cheapened what was clearly a real emotional connection. And the pacing was odd: they naturally gravitate toward each other, yet somehow it also feels like it takes forever for them to get together. Then once they do, everything speeds up so quickly it feels rushed. The ending especially felt like it made sense because the book needed to wrap up, not because the emotional beats were fully earned.
The third‑act breakup didn’t help. Wes has a bad day, lashes out, and says awful things. Clara stands her ground (which I loved), tells him she loves him but loves herself too, and leaves. Wes does the work afterward — therapy, honest conversations with Hayes, showing up for Clara — and it’s swoony… but the lack of an actual apology was baffling.
There were also some strange omissions. The complete absence of scenes between Wes and his nephew Levi — his last link to his sister — felt bizarre. Same with Levi’s dad, Cal, who served with Wes, was his brother‑in‑law, and whose own book included Wes’s accident as a major plot point. Cal is dating Elodie, another Darling sibling, and yet he’s barely present here in any meaningful way. It made the world feel disconnected in a way this series usually avoids.
So yes — I enjoyed reading this. I liked the characters, I liked their chemistry, and I always love Hendrix’s writing. But the pacing issues, emotional shortcuts, and missing relational threads kept this from being the strong, satisfying instalment I hoped for.
Clara was the standout. I loved how she pushed Wes without pitying him or treating him like he was fragile because of his amputation. Wes needed someone who saw him as a whole person, not a tragedy, and Clara did that effortlessly. Their mutual attraction is clear from the start, and the roommates‑to‑lovers setup made sense for where they both were in life.
Wes’s grumpiness, though understandable, wore thin. What balanced it was Clara refusing to let him steamroll her — she held her boundaries, and her presence genuinely helped him. Wes, in turn, gave Clara a kind of emotional support she’d never had in her previous lavender relationship. Their dynamic had real promise.
Their chemistry is strong — their first intimate moment without touching was hotter than most full scenes in other romances — and when they finally sleep together, it’s both steamy and tender. But the “lessons” framing felt unnecessary and actually cheapened what was clearly a real emotional connection. And the pacing was odd: they naturally gravitate toward each other, yet somehow it also feels like it takes forever for them to get together. Then once they do, everything speeds up so quickly it feels rushed. The ending especially felt like it made sense because the book needed to wrap up, not because the emotional beats were fully earned.
The third‑act breakup didn’t help. Wes has a bad day, lashes out, and says awful things. Clara stands her ground (which I loved), tells him she loves him but loves herself too, and leaves. Wes does the work afterward — therapy, honest conversations with Hayes, showing up for Clara — and it’s swoony… but the lack of an actual apology was baffling.
There were also some strange omissions. The complete absence of scenes between Wes and his nephew Levi — his last link to his sister — felt bizarre. Same with Levi’s dad, Cal, who served with Wes, was his brother‑in‑law, and whose own book included Wes’s accident as a major plot point. Cal is dating Elodie, another Darling sibling, and yet he’s barely present here in any meaningful way. It made the world feel disconnected in a way this series usually avoids.
So yes — I enjoyed reading this. I liked the characters, I liked their chemistry, and I always love Hendrix’s writing. But the pacing issues, emotional shortcuts, and missing relational threads kept this from being the strong, satisfying instalment I hoped for.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2026
**ARC REVIEW**
Beneath The Frost is book #3 in the Star Harbor series by Lena Hendrix.
My rating: 5⭐️'s
Spicy rating: 🔥🔥🔥
You will love this one, if you enjoy these tropes:
🤍Friends to Lovers
🤍Spicy Lessons
🤍Brother's Best Friend
🤍Runaway Bride
🤍Disability Rep
🤍She’s his caretaker
My Thoughts
The way I have been waiting for Wes's love story!! Lena did not disappoint with this one.
I love me a grump and Wes was the definition of it. You learn why he is the way he is and I love that the only person who could get through those icy layers was Clara. Clara was his perfect match and I loved how Clara was sunshine personified. She made him see that life is worth living and he deserves to be happy too.
Their chemistry was a slow burn but you could tell the tension filled the air as they were in constant forced proximity living together. The spicy lessons were HOT but beautiful at the same time especially with Wes being so self conscious being an amputee.
PS if you are a small town romance girly, you need this book on your TBR immediately!!!
Overall I loved it so much and I cannot wait to see what's coming next from Lena.
Thank you so much to Lena and her team for kindly sending me this arc to read and review. This is my own honest opinion on the book :)
Beneath The Frost is book #3 in the Star Harbor series by Lena Hendrix.
My rating: 5⭐️'s
Spicy rating: 🔥🔥🔥
You will love this one, if you enjoy these tropes:
🤍Friends to Lovers
🤍Spicy Lessons
🤍Brother's Best Friend
🤍Runaway Bride
🤍Disability Rep
🤍She’s his caretaker
My Thoughts
The way I have been waiting for Wes's love story!! Lena did not disappoint with this one.
I love me a grump and Wes was the definition of it. You learn why he is the way he is and I love that the only person who could get through those icy layers was Clara. Clara was his perfect match and I loved how Clara was sunshine personified. She made him see that life is worth living and he deserves to be happy too.
Their chemistry was a slow burn but you could tell the tension filled the air as they were in constant forced proximity living together. The spicy lessons were HOT but beautiful at the same time especially with Wes being so self conscious being an amputee.
PS if you are a small town romance girly, you need this book on your TBR immediately!!!
Overall I loved it so much and I cannot wait to see what's coming next from Lena.
Thank you so much to Lena and her team for kindly sending me this arc to read and review. This is my own honest opinion on the book :)
April 28, 2026
This one was such an emotional listen, watching Weston navigate life after his amputation, especially the impact on his mental health, felt incredibly real and thoughtfully handled. The relationship between him and Clara is what really makes this shine though; she meets him exactly where he is, never with pity, only honesty and care, and the way she helps him rebuild his confidence felt so genuine. CJ Bloom and Sebastian York absolutely nailed the emotional depth here—the pining, the vulnerability, the tension—all of it landed. It’s heavy at times, but balanced with flirty banter and chemistry that makes it feel just as compelling as it is meaningful.
April 29, 2026
4.5⭐️ | 2.75🌶
This one hit hard personally but I really enjoyed it. Wes and Clara, all they went through both separately and together reminded me that there's always light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how dark. This was a beautiful story about how life can change in the blink of an eye in the most unexpected of ways but there is always light. Thank you to Lena and team for this arc
This one hit hard personally but I really enjoyed it. Wes and Clara, all they went through both separately and together reminded me that there's always light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how dark. This was a beautiful story about how life can change in the blink of an eye in the most unexpected of ways but there is always light. Thank you to Lena and team for this arc
May 3, 2026
SO GOOD! I've wanted Wes's story since book 1 and I'm so happy the author didn't make us wait till the end of the series!
Two pieces of a puzzle, Clara and Wes fit together perfectly. She might be at loose ends in her personal life, but she's the perfect person to show Wes that life goes on.
Well-written, descriptive and compelling dialogue.
Sweet Scale: 5/5
Spicy Scale: 3/5
Two pieces of a puzzle, Clara and Wes fit together perfectly. She might be at loose ends in her personal life, but she's the perfect person to show Wes that life goes on.
Well-written, descriptive and compelling dialogue.
Sweet Scale: 5/5
Spicy Scale: 3/5
August 28, 2026
Honestly the pacing for this book felt off. The non-resolution with Greg was disappointing. I really liked the insight we got into Wes as he was going through rehab was really powerful especially since we don’t get a lot of amputee MC’s as love interests.
The ghost lady thing is the main reason I’m reading this book series at this point.
The ghost lady thing is the main reason I’m reading this book series at this point.
July 13, 2026
It was an okay book, but just that, nothing else...
(not in the mood to write whole ass review on what I liked and didn't like)...
(not in the mood to write whole ass review on what I liked and didn't like)...
May 11, 2026
Audiobook Review: CJ Bloom and Sebastian York are both narrators I love, and for a good reason. They were absolutely phenomenal in this duet narration, and I could connect with the MCs so much better. So I will highly recommend the audiobook.
I liked Clara's character and how unapologetic she was. Her journey to figuring out what was next in her life after all her carefully crafted plans fell apart was well portrayed. I truly admired her character for her strength and resilience to come back from everything that happened despite being the talk of the town. I also love how Clara didn't crowd him but also pushed him enough, knowing exactly what he needed even if he didn't.
Wes's character was one I really loved even in the short span he was present in book one before things went sideways. He had a lot to unpack when it came to his new reality, which was not easy. His struggles, fears, and pain weren't easy to get through, and it was hard to watch him look at himself and feel broken. Watching him slowly get the confidence to try again was emotional.
I do, however, wish that Wes's past – his relationship with his family and his grief over losing his sister – were addressed. It would've made me understand a bit more about him as a character. There was no interaction between Wes and any family member, which felt a bit off knowing his situation and recovery.
Clara and Wes both seemed to be on the same boat when it came to feeling lost in life, and I loved how they helped each other figure things out without even trying. The faith they had in each other helped them both take their first step in the right direction. The romance between Wes and Clara grew so beautifully, with them going from roommates to FWB to lovers. The transition felt so seamless, and I loved both these characters as individuals and as a couple. The banter, teasing, flirting, and support were all blended well.
The intimacy between Wes and Clara played a vital role in this book, especially for Wes. I love how careful Clara was with Wes and worked with him to help him figure himself out. That being said, the spice was really well written, as is the case with Lena's books, and I loved it so much.
The side characters, namely the Darling siblings, continue to be absolutely supportive and all up in each other's business. The conversation between Hayes and Wes was much needed, and I'm glad they both got some sense of closure. Already waiting for Kit's and Brody's book with just that one interaction between them.
I loved being back in Star Harbor and getting into the mystery that is 'The Lady of the Dunes' again. I've said this a lot of times, but I love the way Lena twines these little mysteries throughout her series that keep you so invested in not just the couple but the town and its history as a whole. We uncover some more jarring facts and trails regarding the Lady and I'm so invested to figure out how it all ties up.
Thank you to Lena Hendrix for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I liked Clara's character and how unapologetic she was. Her journey to figuring out what was next in her life after all her carefully crafted plans fell apart was well portrayed. I truly admired her character for her strength and resilience to come back from everything that happened despite being the talk of the town. I also love how Clara didn't crowd him but also pushed him enough, knowing exactly what he needed even if he didn't.
Wes's character was one I really loved even in the short span he was present in book one before things went sideways. He had a lot to unpack when it came to his new reality, which was not easy. His struggles, fears, and pain weren't easy to get through, and it was hard to watch him look at himself and feel broken. Watching him slowly get the confidence to try again was emotional.
I do, however, wish that Wes's past – his relationship with his family and his grief over losing his sister – were addressed. It would've made me understand a bit more about him as a character. There was no interaction between Wes and any family member, which felt a bit off knowing his situation and recovery.
Clara and Wes both seemed to be on the same boat when it came to feeling lost in life, and I loved how they helped each other figure things out without even trying. The faith they had in each other helped them both take their first step in the right direction. The romance between Wes and Clara grew so beautifully, with them going from roommates to FWB to lovers. The transition felt so seamless, and I loved both these characters as individuals and as a couple. The banter, teasing, flirting, and support were all blended well.
The intimacy between Wes and Clara played a vital role in this book, especially for Wes. I love how careful Clara was with Wes and worked with him to help him figure himself out. That being said, the spice was really well written, as is the case with Lena's books, and I loved it so much.
The side characters, namely the Darling siblings, continue to be absolutely supportive and all up in each other's business. The conversation between Hayes and Wes was much needed, and I'm glad they both got some sense of closure. Already waiting for Kit's and Brody's book with just that one interaction between them.
I loved being back in Star Harbor and getting into the mystery that is 'The Lady of the Dunes' again. I've said this a lot of times, but I love the way Lena twines these little mysteries throughout her series that keep you so invested in not just the couple but the town and its history as a whole. We uncover some more jarring facts and trails regarding the Lady and I'm so invested to figure out how it all ties up.
Thank you to Lena Hendrix for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2026
Beneath the Frost by Lena Hendrix is an absolute triumph that completely stole my heart. The story of Wes and Clara is a beautifully written, slow-burn, small-town romance that balances deep emotional healing with scorching chemistry. The story follows Clara, a woman trying to rebuild her life and find peace in a tight-knit community, and Wes, the brooding, fiercely protective local who guards his heart behind a cold exterior. When circumstances force them into close proximity, the icy walls between them begin to thaw. Lena Hendrix masterfully handles the "grumpy x sunshine" dynamic, making their journey from tentative allies to passionate lovers feel incredibly earned. The external stakes and small-town charm add perfect layers to their romance.
Favorite qoutes:
"This isn't go live your best life and l'll brood from a distance.
I'm telling you I'm in love with you. Fully, stupidly terrified and in love with you. I want you in my mornings and my bad days and my building sites and whatever comes after that awful green carpet."
“Maybe i was out of my mind or maybe for once—i was exactly where I was supposed to be."
"Every Man before him felt like an Echo - All suggestions and no resonance."
Favorite qoutes:
"This isn't go live your best life and l'll brood from a distance.
I'm telling you I'm in love with you. Fully, stupidly terrified and in love with you. I want you in my mornings and my bad days and my building sites and whatever comes after that awful green carpet."
“Maybe i was out of my mind or maybe for once—i was exactly where I was supposed to be."
"Every Man before him felt like an Echo - All suggestions and no resonance."
May 3, 2026
An absolute 10/10. What a book!!!
Wes my sweet grumpy man, I love him with my entire soul. His struggles and fears were raw and real. His pain was obvious and my heart broke seeing the internal demons he battled daily. His character development was chefs kiss and his disability was handled with such care and attention. He finally found the light amongst all the darkness with Clara by his side 🥹
Sweet sunshine Clara. She gently pushed Wes to rediscover himself. She didn’t smother him, she met him halfway and gave him that extra push to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I loved seeing her own growth and watching her fulfil her own dreams and find a life for herself back in Star Harbor.
The chemistry between these two was undeniable, those spicy lessons??? Phenomenal. They fell for each other in such a natural and organic way and you could tell Wes had been down bad for a while 😌
This book was authentic, raw and emotional. I can’t wait to see what Lena gives us next 🤭
“My woman. My future. My second chance, standing here in a place we’d built together.”
Tropes:
❄️ small town
☁️ runaway bride
🩵 friends to lovers
❄️ roommates
☁️ brothers best friend
🩵 spicy lessons
🦿 disability rep
Thank you to Lena and team for the ARC 🫶🏻
Wes my sweet grumpy man, I love him with my entire soul. His struggles and fears were raw and real. His pain was obvious and my heart broke seeing the internal demons he battled daily. His character development was chefs kiss and his disability was handled with such care and attention. He finally found the light amongst all the darkness with Clara by his side 🥹
Sweet sunshine Clara. She gently pushed Wes to rediscover himself. She didn’t smother him, she met him halfway and gave him that extra push to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I loved seeing her own growth and watching her fulfil her own dreams and find a life for herself back in Star Harbor.
The chemistry between these two was undeniable, those spicy lessons??? Phenomenal. They fell for each other in such a natural and organic way and you could tell Wes had been down bad for a while 😌
This book was authentic, raw and emotional. I can’t wait to see what Lena gives us next 🤭
“My woman. My future. My second chance, standing here in a place we’d built together.”
Tropes:
❄️ small town
☁️ runaway bride
🩵 friends to lovers
❄️ roommates
☁️ brothers best friend
🩵 spicy lessons
🦿 disability rep
Thank you to Lena and team for the ARC 🫶🏻
April 30, 2026
❄️Small Town Romance
💙Brother’s Best Friend
❄️Forced Proximity
💙Spice Lessons
❄️Runaway Bride
💙Roommate
❄️Friends to Lovers
💙Mental Health + Disability Rep
Clara and Wes are swoon worthy! The way they just fit together and the tension. Ugh! 🥵🫠
They both had to deal with crappy circumstances but I loved seeing both of them find themselves! It was so good.
Wes is a broody, gorgeous man! You will be fanning yourself! What a man! I mean the man makes her coffee, exactly how she likes it, swoon. The man wearing slutty little glasses…major swoon!
Clara is an amazing person, who just got wrapped up in a crappy situation taking care of someone else. I adore her. Watching her take something she wants and going after it, I was yelling “Yes Queen!”
I loved learning more about the Lady, I’m seriously hooked! I’m read to move to Star Harbor now!
Thank you for the ARC, Lena!! I highly recommend!
💙Brother’s Best Friend
❄️Forced Proximity
💙Spice Lessons
❄️Runaway Bride
💙Roommate
❄️Friends to Lovers
💙Mental Health + Disability Rep
Clara and Wes are swoon worthy! The way they just fit together and the tension. Ugh! 🥵🫠
They both had to deal with crappy circumstances but I loved seeing both of them find themselves! It was so good.
Wes is a broody, gorgeous man! You will be fanning yourself! What a man! I mean the man makes her coffee, exactly how she likes it, swoon. The man wearing slutty little glasses…major swoon!
Clara is an amazing person, who just got wrapped up in a crappy situation taking care of someone else. I adore her. Watching her take something she wants and going after it, I was yelling “Yes Queen!”
I loved learning more about the Lady, I’m seriously hooked! I’m read to move to Star Harbor now!
Thank you for the ARC, Lena!! I highly recommend!
May 7, 2026
5⭐️
Immediately as soon as I started this I was OBSESSED! I already knew it was going to be a 5 star read only a few chapters in.
This book was cozy, heartwarming, so incredibly sweet, spicy, funny, literally everything you could want in a small town romance. I have yet to read the first 2 books in this series but I will most definitely be reading them as soon as possible! I enjoyed this story so much that as it got closer to the end, I dragged it out because I didn't want it to be over. This was such an easy 5 star rating to give. I am so in love with Wes and Clara!!
I highly highly highly recommend this one! Especially on audio! The narrators did a fantastic job portraying the emotions and personalities of the characters and really bringing them to life.
If you are a fan of brother's best friend, roommates, and spicy lessons 👀, then you NEED to pick this one up! I'm telling you, you will not be disappointed!
Immediately as soon as I started this I was OBSESSED! I already knew it was going to be a 5 star read only a few chapters in.
This book was cozy, heartwarming, so incredibly sweet, spicy, funny, literally everything you could want in a small town romance. I have yet to read the first 2 books in this series but I will most definitely be reading them as soon as possible! I enjoyed this story so much that as it got closer to the end, I dragged it out because I didn't want it to be over. This was such an easy 5 star rating to give. I am so in love with Wes and Clara!!
I highly highly highly recommend this one! Especially on audio! The narrators did a fantastic job portraying the emotions and personalities of the characters and really bringing them to life.
If you are a fan of brother's best friend, roommates, and spicy lessons 👀, then you NEED to pick this one up! I'm telling you, you will not be disappointed!
April 24, 2026
[beneath the frost]
I am struggling to come up with words to describe how much I LOVED this book. Lena Hendrix has me absolutely obsessed with the Star Harbor Series and Wes and Clara's story was the most perfect third book to add to the lineup.
Oh Wes!! He is such a broken tortured soul after an accident where he lost his leg. He is a shell of his former self and Clara was exactly who he needed to bring him back to life. *swoon*
Clara and Wes were something so special. They had this quick banter that made me laugh but beyond that they had this deep relationship that was formed through communication, vulnerability, and emotions. I loved how much they grew together and felt so invested in their relationship. I just LOVE them.
I also want to add- this is the best spin on the spicy lesson trope I've ever read.
This was the easiest five stars ever. I was fully invested from page one and I was sad to say goodbye on the last page. Zero notes! Don't miss this one.
You can expect…
💙 small town
💙 brother’s best friend
💙 roommates
💙 recent amputee hero
💙 runaway bride
💙 spicy lessons
💙 friends to lovers
📚Book: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧 Audio: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥Spice Rating: ❤️
🎧 𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗮𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼...
The narration on this audiobook literally couldn't have been better! CJ Bloom and Sebastian York were a perfectly cast in this duet audiobook. They made every emotion come to life in such a perfect way. If you enjoy audiobooks, I highly recommend you listen to this one!
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘓𝘦𝘯𝘢 𝘏𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘹 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘈𝘓𝘊. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦.
Spice Rating
🤍 clean romance
💗 closed door/ fade to black
❤️ spicy content (a few detailed scenes)
❤️🔥 explicit, play-by-play (major part of the plot)
🖤 graphic, more than vanilla
I am struggling to come up with words to describe how much I LOVED this book. Lena Hendrix has me absolutely obsessed with the Star Harbor Series and Wes and Clara's story was the most perfect third book to add to the lineup.
Oh Wes!! He is such a broken tortured soul after an accident where he lost his leg. He is a shell of his former self and Clara was exactly who he needed to bring him back to life. *swoon*
Clara and Wes were something so special. They had this quick banter that made me laugh but beyond that they had this deep relationship that was formed through communication, vulnerability, and emotions. I loved how much they grew together and felt so invested in their relationship. I just LOVE them.
I also want to add- this is the best spin on the spicy lesson trope I've ever read.
This was the easiest five stars ever. I was fully invested from page one and I was sad to say goodbye on the last page. Zero notes! Don't miss this one.
You can expect…
💙 small town
💙 brother’s best friend
💙 roommates
💙 recent amputee hero
💙 runaway bride
💙 spicy lessons
💙 friends to lovers
📚Book: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🎧 Audio: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥Spice Rating: ❤️
🎧 𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗮𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼...
The narration on this audiobook literally couldn't have been better! CJ Bloom and Sebastian York were a perfectly cast in this duet audiobook. They made every emotion come to life in such a perfect way. If you enjoy audiobooks, I highly recommend you listen to this one!
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘓𝘦𝘯𝘢 𝘏𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘹 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘪𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘈𝘓𝘊. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦.
Spice Rating
🤍 clean romance
💗 closed door/ fade to black
❤️ spicy content (a few detailed scenes)
❤️🔥 explicit, play-by-play (major part of the plot)
🖤 graphic, more than vanilla
April 29, 2026
Thank you Lena Hendrix for my copy of Beneath The Frost. 🤍 I received this book for review, all opinions are my own and given freely.
Beneath The Frost is book 3 in the Star Harbor series. This is Wes + Clara’s book! I’m an absolute sucker for runaway bride trope. I’m also an absolute sucker for anything Lena writes. 😂 All that to say, I ate this book up!
Wes was grumpy and Clara was the perfect sunshine for him. My heart hurt so badly for Wes. I just loved them together so much. I felt so many emotions reading this book. Lena continues to be one of my favorite, auto buy authors.
Beneath The Frost releases 04/30.
Beneath The Frost is book 3 in the Star Harbor series. This is Wes + Clara’s book! I’m an absolute sucker for runaway bride trope. I’m also an absolute sucker for anything Lena writes. 😂 All that to say, I ate this book up!
Wes was grumpy and Clara was the perfect sunshine for him. My heart hurt so badly for Wes. I just loved them together so much. I felt so many emotions reading this book. Lena continues to be one of my favorite, auto buy authors.
Beneath The Frost releases 04/30.
April 30, 2026
I loved every second of Wes & Clara!! I want to give Wes the biggest hug, my heart broke for him and everything he’s been through. I loved the way Clara was a breath of fresh air for him, not giving him a choice in having to move forward and to keep living. I loved the way she knew exactly how to push him and didn’t treat him like he was fragile. I loved the way Wes was supportive and was fully invested in her and her dreams. I loved the two of them together, their chemistry, the way they fit together so well…it was all just so good, and I couldn’t put it down!!
[ARC review]
[ARC review]
May 5, 2026
5⭐️
2.5🌶️
This book is the definition of the hurt & comfort trope done right.
Wes and Clara are both a little lost in their own ways, and what starts as a spicy “lessons” arrangement turns into something that lets them be vulnerable, take control, and slowly reclaim their lives.
Lena has such a talent for pulling at your heartstrings while balancing it with perfectly timed humor—most of it thanks to Clara’s sparkling (and unforgettable) personality.
Heartwarming, a little steamy, and full of those soft, cozy feelings—this one definitely delivers all the warm fuzzies.
2.5🌶️
This book is the definition of the hurt & comfort trope done right.
Wes and Clara are both a little lost in their own ways, and what starts as a spicy “lessons” arrangement turns into something that lets them be vulnerable, take control, and slowly reclaim their lives.
Lena has such a talent for pulling at your heartstrings while balancing it with perfectly timed humor—most of it thanks to Clara’s sparkling (and unforgettable) personality.
Heartwarming, a little steamy, and full of those soft, cozy feelings—this one definitely delivers all the warm fuzzies.
May 3, 2026
Update :RTC
3.75 ⭐️
1 🌶️
This is a slowwwwwww burn. At first the tension was tensioning but now that I’ve sat for a bit, I’ve knocked it down a star. I’m not sure if it is the lack of spice making me feel less of a connection but something isn’t getting me quite there. Clara is exactly what Wes needs but his fear is at play 90% of the time. Given his accident I knew it would take longer for their story to develop but this wasn’t my favorite.
3.75 ⭐️
1 🌶️
This is a slowwwwwww burn. At first the tension was tensioning but now that I’ve sat for a bit, I’ve knocked it down a star. I’m not sure if it is the lack of spice making me feel less of a connection but something isn’t getting me quite there. Clara is exactly what Wes needs but his fear is at play 90% of the time. Given his accident I knew it would take longer for their story to develop but this wasn’t my favorite.
May 18, 2026
❄️ ARC Review ❄️
Roommates, small town, brother’s best friend, grumpy/sunshine, overcoming hardships - what more could you want? I’ve loved every Lena Hendrix book I’ve read. The Sullivans series has been my favorite so far, but Star Harbor is quickly giving it serious competition! I really enjoyed Wes and Clara’s story. The chemistry, emotion, and storyline had me hooked from the beginning. Lena Hendrix consistently delivers strong plots with a few spicy scenes mixed in, which for me is the perfect balance. I already can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Roommates, small town, brother’s best friend, grumpy/sunshine, overcoming hardships - what more could you want? I’ve loved every Lena Hendrix book I’ve read. The Sullivans series has been my favorite so far, but Star Harbor is quickly giving it serious competition! I really enjoyed Wes and Clara’s story. The chemistry, emotion, and storyline had me hooked from the beginning. Lena Hendrix consistently delivers strong plots with a few spicy scenes mixed in, which for me is the perfect balance. I already can’t wait for the next book in this series!
September 8, 2026
Grumpy/Sunshine trope to the fullest!
Clara, Hayes’s little sister, flees to the small town of Star Harbor after her wedding ends in a massive public scandal and is desperate to escape her overbearing parents' house. She knows Weston from her younger years and his current situation and figures she can help. She pitches the arrangement as a trade-off: she will act as his hands-on caretaker and home aid to support his physical recovery, and in exchange, she gets a temporary sanctuary.
A few months in, Wes is back home in the middle of navigating his new reality, physical rehabilitation, and prosthesis adjustments. He ultimately folds and allows Clara to move in, setting up a strict list of household rules on the fridge to maintain his boundaries.
Clara’s upbeat, loud, and sparkling personality to Wes’s broken, angry, recluse type is what he needs without knowing it. She does not treat his recent leg amputation as a "project to fix" or a tragedy to pity. She stands her ground and is just as stubborn as he is. Which makes for very intriguing living arrangements, especially with the confidence lessons. 🔥
Series: Book 3 of the Star Harbor series
Audiobook: Narrated by CJ Bloom and Sebastian York
Book 4, In Full Bloom coming October 13, 2026!
Clara, Hayes’s little sister, flees to the small town of Star Harbor after her wedding ends in a massive public scandal and is desperate to escape her overbearing parents' house. She knows Weston from her younger years and his current situation and figures she can help. She pitches the arrangement as a trade-off: she will act as his hands-on caretaker and home aid to support his physical recovery, and in exchange, she gets a temporary sanctuary.
A few months in, Wes is back home in the middle of navigating his new reality, physical rehabilitation, and prosthesis adjustments. He ultimately folds and allows Clara to move in, setting up a strict list of household rules on the fridge to maintain his boundaries.
Clara’s upbeat, loud, and sparkling personality to Wes’s broken, angry, recluse type is what he needs without knowing it. She does not treat his recent leg amputation as a "project to fix" or a tragedy to pity. She stands her ground and is just as stubborn as he is. Which makes for very intriguing living arrangements, especially with the confidence lessons. 🔥
Series: Book 3 of the Star Harbor series
Audiobook: Narrated by CJ Bloom and Sebastian York
Book 4, In Full Bloom coming October 13, 2026!
April 30, 2026
Okay Wes Vaughn, got me in my feels. This man has been through it and is understandably rocked in mental and physical ways. In comes Clara Darling to push him and hold him accountable with joy and boundaries. Eff yes! Way to go Lena, I love them.
Spoiler?
And we get a "F*ck it" moment!
Spoiler?
And we get a "F*ck it" moment!
June 8, 2026
Loved it
This story had me from the first chapter. I loved Wes and Clara’s story it had all the feels, family, angst and the slowest burn romance that kept the reader engaged throughout.
This story had me from the first chapter. I loved Wes and Clara’s story it had all the feels, family, angst and the slowest burn romance that kept the reader engaged throughout.
May 10, 2026
UGH the best one so far!! Wes was just the abosolute best grump and him and Clara's relationship was 😙🤌🏻
Displaying 1 - 30 of 464 reviews