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The Chain of Lakes #2
The Muse
Flynn Morley has spent his life getting by with as little as possible. No girlfriend. No real home. No money to speak of. Raised in the system, he learned early not to trust people who seemed to have everything. So when he takes a job as a “muse” for a wealthy Minneapolis couple, it feels like crossing a line he never thought he would.
Then he meets June.
June is a bike tour guide with a quick smile, a calm confidence, and a way of making Flynn feel seen without being judged. Their connection is immediate and playful, built on shared humor, quiet moments, and a mutual longing for a simple life.
As Flynn adjusts to his bizarre new job, he starts encountering something he never planned for: kindness without strings attached. It challenges everything he believes about money, power, and who gets to be comfortable in the world. And falling for June only complicates things, especially when it turns out she’s carrying secrets of her own.
When June’s past surfaces, Flynn has to decide what scares him more: becoming someone he’s always sworn he’d never be or letting her see his darkest secrets. If he can’t let go of his fears, he might lose the one person who finally feels like home.
Then he meets June.
June is a bike tour guide with a quick smile, a calm confidence, and a way of making Flynn feel seen without being judged. Their connection is immediate and playful, built on shared humor, quiet moments, and a mutual longing for a simple life.
As Flynn adjusts to his bizarre new job, he starts encountering something he never planned for: kindness without strings attached. It challenges everything he believes about money, power, and who gets to be comfortable in the world. And falling for June only complicates things, especially when it turns out she’s carrying secrets of her own.
When June’s past surfaces, Flynn has to decide what scares him more: becoming someone he’s always sworn he’d never be or letting her see his darkest secrets. If he can’t let go of his fears, he might lose the one person who finally feels like home.
Audible Audio
Published May 28, 2026
About the author
Jewel E. Ann
58 books10.9k followersJewel is a Wall Street Journal & USA Today best selling author with a quirky sense of humor. When she's not saving the planet one tree at a time, you can find her role modeling questionable behavior to her three boys, binge-watching Netflix with her husband, and writing mind-bending romance.
Her newest release is The Homemaker, a contemporary romance.
Upcoming Projects: The Muse, book 2 in the Chain of Lakes Series coming in May.
Stay in the loop by subscribing to her newsletter!—> Sign up here!
Her newest release is The Homemaker, a contemporary romance.
Upcoming Projects: The Muse, book 2 in the Chain of Lakes Series coming in May.
Stay in the loop by subscribing to her newsletter!—> Sign up here!
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May 28, 2026The Muse is live!
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
https://bit.ly/3MxUmGE
Audible: https://bit.ly/4toxJUB
Amazon Audiobook: https://bit.ly/48JaNrF
Narrated by: Tim Paige & Charlotte North
Review of advance copy
“I don’t want you to fit into my world, June.
I want you to 𝓫𝓮 my world.”
on repeat 𝄞 ࿐♬ 𓍢ִ🎧ྀི ᯓ ♪ˎˊ˗
“ᴍᴏᴏɴ ʀɪᴠᴇʀ” x 2ᴄᴇʟʟᴏꜱ
0:05 ─♥────────── 3:12
This book had me smiling so much while I was reading it. Flynn and June were just one of those couples that felt easy to get attached to because their relationship felt so genuine from the beginning. Sweet, awkward, honest, a little messy sometimes… but real in a way that made me completely invested in them.
Flynn had my heart almost immediately. There was something so quietly heartbreaking about the way he moved through life expecting very little from people, and you could tell growing up with nothing shaped so much of who he became. Which is why watching him slowly experience kindness and care throughout the story hit me so hard emotionally. 🥺
Especially when it came to Callie and Rupert.
I loved the way they naturally started taking care of him in small ways without making him feel pitied or judged. Half the time Flynn barely even seemed to recognize what was happening, which honestly made it even sadder because you could tell he genuinely wasn’t used to people showing up for him like that. Watching someone slowly realize they deserve care without having to earn it first will always get to me.
His personality made me love him even more too. He was awkward, brutally honest, unintentionally funny, and somehow incredibly charming because of it. His dry humor mixed with June’s warmth made their banter one of my favorite parts of the entire book. They had this really effortless chemistry where even the smaller conversations felt meaningful because of how comfortable they became with each other so quickly.
One thing I really loved was how sincere Flynn was when it came to June. Nothing about the way he cared for her felt performative or overly polished. It felt very raw and wholehearted in a way that made their relationship easy to believe in.
Flynn spent so much of the story carrying around insecurity, discomfort, and this constant feeling that he didn’t fully belong anywhere. So seeing him slowly start viewing himself differently through the way June loved him honestly became one of the most emotional parts of the book for me. It wasn’t just about him falling in love with her—it was about him finally believing he could maybe deserve love too.
And honestly, the rich girl / poor boy dynamic added so much natural emotion underneath everything. Flynn carried so much discomfort around money, belonging, and feeling out of place in certain spaces that even the softer moments between them still carried this quiet tension underneath. There’s just something about two people from completely different worlds trying to meet in the middle that always creates so much yearning naturally.
I will say the writing felt a little choppy at times, and some chapters ended really abruptly. 😬 But emotionally, the book still completely worked for me. Once I got attached to Flynn and June, I honestly didn’t want to stop reading because I became so invested in Flynn learning how to trust people and let himself be cared for.
By the end, what stayed with me most wasn’t even just the romance itself, but the emotional growth underneath it. Watching someone who spent most of their life surviving slowly learn what kindness, stability, and unconditional love actually look like hit me way harder than I expected. It was messy and imperfect at times, but honestly, that’s what made it feel human.
things to know about the book ↓
🎶 angsty
🎶 rich girl x poor boy
🎶 chance encounter
🎶 first love
🎶 guarded hearts
🎶 opposites attract
🎶 dual POV
spice rating: 🌶️🌶️
chapters: 18, 19, 20, 34
swearing: yes
Thank you Valentine PR, publisher & author for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⸻⸻⸻
・❥・⁀➷ 🚘 🩵 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕
i'm intrigued. i signed up for this arc because ive heard great things about Jewel E Ann's writing. hoping it delivers because i've read nothing by her before 🤞🏼😭
I want you to 𝓫𝓮 my world.”
on repeat 𝄞 ࿐♬ 𓍢ִ🎧ྀི ᯓ ♪ˎˊ˗
“ᴍᴏᴏɴ ʀɪᴠᴇʀ” x 2ᴄᴇʟʟᴏꜱ
0:05 ─♥────────── 3:12
This book had me smiling so much while I was reading it. Flynn and June were just one of those couples that felt easy to get attached to because their relationship felt so genuine from the beginning. Sweet, awkward, honest, a little messy sometimes… but real in a way that made me completely invested in them.
Flynn had my heart almost immediately. There was something so quietly heartbreaking about the way he moved through life expecting very little from people, and you could tell growing up with nothing shaped so much of who he became. Which is why watching him slowly experience kindness and care throughout the story hit me so hard emotionally. 🥺
Especially when it came to Callie and Rupert.
I loved the way they naturally started taking care of him in small ways without making him feel pitied or judged. Half the time Flynn barely even seemed to recognize what was happening, which honestly made it even sadder because you could tell he genuinely wasn’t used to people showing up for him like that. Watching someone slowly realize they deserve care without having to earn it first will always get to me.
His personality made me love him even more too. He was awkward, brutally honest, unintentionally funny, and somehow incredibly charming because of it. His dry humor mixed with June’s warmth made their banter one of my favorite parts of the entire book. They had this really effortless chemistry where even the smaller conversations felt meaningful because of how comfortable they became with each other so quickly.
One thing I really loved was how sincere Flynn was when it came to June. Nothing about the way he cared for her felt performative or overly polished. It felt very raw and wholehearted in a way that made their relationship easy to believe in.
“I feel like the best version of myself when she looks at me.”
Flynn spent so much of the story carrying around insecurity, discomfort, and this constant feeling that he didn’t fully belong anywhere. So seeing him slowly start viewing himself differently through the way June loved him honestly became one of the most emotional parts of the book for me. It wasn’t just about him falling in love with her—it was about him finally believing he could maybe deserve love too.
And honestly, the rich girl / poor boy dynamic added so much natural emotion underneath everything. Flynn carried so much discomfort around money, belonging, and feeling out of place in certain spaces that even the softer moments between them still carried this quiet tension underneath. There’s just something about two people from completely different worlds trying to meet in the middle that always creates so much yearning naturally.
I will say the writing felt a little choppy at times, and some chapters ended really abruptly. 😬 But emotionally, the book still completely worked for me. Once I got attached to Flynn and June, I honestly didn’t want to stop reading because I became so invested in Flynn learning how to trust people and let himself be cared for.
By the end, what stayed with me most wasn’t even just the romance itself, but the emotional growth underneath it. Watching someone who spent most of their life surviving slowly learn what kindness, stability, and unconditional love actually look like hit me way harder than I expected. It was messy and imperfect at times, but honestly, that’s what made it feel human.
things to know about the book ↓
🎶 angsty
🎶 rich girl x poor boy
🎶 chance encounter
🎶 first love
🎶 guarded hearts
🎶 opposites attract
🎶 dual POV
spice rating: 🌶️🌶️
chapters: 18, 19, 20, 34
swearing: yes
Thank you Valentine PR, publisher & author for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⸻⸻⸻
・❥・⁀➷ 🚘 🩵 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕
i'm intrigued. i signed up for this arc because ive heard great things about Jewel E Ann's writing. hoping it delivers because i've read nothing by her before 🤞🏼😭
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was in a reading slump since the beginning of 2026 and I've read only 12 books so far BUT when I start to read this book I felt that ohhh this is gonna be sooooo good. I mean I was into this book from the 1st chapter. Imagine how I quickly fell in love with Flynn. :) This amazing book literally pulled me out of my funk. I loved everything about this story and Flynn & June were so good together. You'll feel all of the emotions with them... You'll laugh, you'll cry.... This was not only a typical romance story like boy meets with the girl etc. You'll also invest side characters story too. Jewel is an amazing storyteller and you should expect the unexpected with her books because trust me, she'll surprise you indeed like when I met June's parents for example. Ahhh I was squeling like a duck! LOL My lips are sealed, I won't gave away their names but just please read this book! It's not out yet but pls add it to your TBR list. :)
*This book is one of my favorites now and it's my No.1 book of 2026! Yesssss, told you! It was that good. ;) I highly recommend all of the Jewel's books to you. 😍😍😍
Expected publication May 28, 2026
***ARC provided by Valentine PR & Literary Management.
"I think everything in my life has led me to her.
I have to believe it. One.Good.Thing.
I have to believe I'm deserving of one good thing."
Flynn, I love you!!!!
*This book is one of my favorites now and it's my No.1 book of 2026! Yesssss, told you! It was that good. ;) I highly recommend all of the Jewel's books to you. 😍😍😍
Expected publication May 28, 2026
***ARC provided by Valentine PR & Literary Management.
"I think everything in my life has led me to her.
I have to believe it. One.Good.Thing.
I have to believe I'm deserving of one good thing."
Flynn, I love you!!!!
May 29, 2026
3 Stars
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise and the H.
The Not-So-Good: The conflict/angst level and instalove.
The Bad: The ending.
Overall: This has been on my upcoming books list on Amazon for a while now and I think I probably got my hopes set a little too high here. The blurb and premise was so unique (kind of like the other book in this series) that I couldn't help but get excited for it. While I love Jewel E. Ann's voice and how she creates her characters (especially the H), this was just okay for me. I think I was expecting some more angst, especially with how it all starts. I felt like the conflict kind of fell flat and didn't have the emotional punch that I love experiencing in her books (some of the times). The ending also left me wanting. Idk, might be my book slump or too high expectations, might not 🤷🏻♀️
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is June and Flynn's story. Flynn finds himself in an odd situation where he has to serve as an older lady's muse to help her find "inspiration to live" or go back to jail. On his first day on the job, he meets June, a bicycle tour guide, and he is instantly hooked. He starts a strong pursuit and June can't help but be charmed by it. There are some big secrets and baggage they have to work through and some sweet and sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between June and Flynn's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of. The H falls first and almost right away, but the h doesn't take long to follow him.
H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Flynn. Man, he was a diverse character! He was so sweetly vulnerable, innocent/naïve in his own way while having crazy life experiences in his past, intrinsically protective, and so dang caring to the point that he doesn't hesitate to put others needs before his own.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. June. I liked her but I think I liked the H more, and when she was not forgiving right away, I think that made my opinion of her change.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull:Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in an alright place but not enough closure for me to call it a HEA ending. I'll call it a HFN and it's one of my biggest gripes with JEA.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise and the H.
The Not-So-Good: The conflict/angst level and instalove.
The Bad: The ending.
Overall: This has been on my upcoming books list on Amazon for a while now and I think I probably got my hopes set a little too high here. The blurb and premise was so unique (kind of like the other book in this series) that I couldn't help but get excited for it. While I love Jewel E. Ann's voice and how she creates her characters (especially the H), this was just okay for me. I think I was expecting some more angst, especially with how it all starts. I felt like the conflict kind of fell flat and didn't have the emotional punch that I love experiencing in her books (some of the times). The ending also left me wanting. Idk, might be my book slump or too high expectations, might not 🤷🏻♀️
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is June and Flynn's story. Flynn finds himself in an odd situation where he has to serve as an older lady's muse to help her find "inspiration to live" or go back to jail. On his first day on the job, he meets June, a bicycle tour guide, and he is instantly hooked. He starts a strong pursuit and June can't help but be charmed by it. There are some big secrets and baggage they have to work through and some sweet and sexy times...and they get a HFN ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between June and Flynn's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of. The H falls first and almost right away, but the h doesn't take long to follow him.
H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Flynn. Man, he was a diverse character! He was so sweetly vulnerable, innocent/naïve in his own way while having crazy life experiences in his past, intrinsically protective, and so dang caring to the point that he doesn't hesitate to put others needs before his own.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. June. I liked her but I think I liked the H more, and when she was not forgiving right away, I think that made my opinion of her change.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull:Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends in an alright place but not enough closure for me to call it a HEA ending. I'll call it a HFN and it's one of my biggest gripes with JEA.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
June 6, 2026
My heart needed to see idiots fall in love, and this book did exactly that for me.
There are so many swoon-worthy dialogues in this book that I genuinely wish I could quote every single page. Unfortunately for you all, I’m saving most of those for Instagram, so keep your eyes peeled for that review.
Two Brain Cells, One Love Story
I think one of the things Jewel E. Ann does exceptionally well is make me fall in love with characters, tropes, and situations that I would normally avoid. She somehow takes ideas that should not work for me and turns them into something charming, lovable, and impossible to put down.
This book was exactly what I needed.
After my last read emotionally dragged me through the trenches, I needed something lighthearted. I needed something human. I needed people who felt real and conversations that felt natural. I needed a story that would make me laugh without sacrificing emotion.
And this book delivered all of it.
There were moments where I laughed out loud. There were moments where I felt my chest tighten. There were moments where I found myself smiling at my iPad like an idiot.
Jewel’s sense of humor is one of my favorite things about her writing. It never feels forced. The jokes land because they feel like things actual people would say. Her writing style is equally effortless. I flew through this book without ever feeling like I was reading it. I was simply experiencing it.
Living on a Couch, Living in My Head Rent Free
“I love you, and I don’t know why you would love me, because there is nothing special about me, but you said those words to me, and no one has ever said those words to me.”
Flynn.
Where do I even begin?
If someone had described Flynn to me before I started this book, I would have been convinced he wasn’t my type of MMC.
The man was dirty. He was living on a couch. He was chaotic. He made questionable decisions. He was, quite frankly, an idiot.
And yet somehow I fell completely in love with him.
If I had to describe Flynn using only one word, it would genuinely be idiot.
A lovable idiot, but an idiot nonetheless.
What made him so compelling was how ordinary he was. He wasn’t some larger-than-life fantasy hero. He wasn’t impossibly wealthy or powerful or mysterious. He felt like someone you could easily overlook if you passed him on the street.
But then he opens his mouth.
And suddenly you can’t look away.
His dialogue made me swoon. His thoughts made me laugh. His interactions made me laugh. His worldview made me laugh. Honestly, Flynn existing made me laugh.
But beneath all that humor was someone incredibly kind.
He was a giver through and through.
I also loved how strongly he held onto his beliefs regarding money, power, and society. Those beliefs shaped him. They were a part of his identity. Watching him slowly realize that some things are worth more than being right, and that some people are worth more than the walls we build around our convictions, was one of the most beautifully executed parts of the story.
The Answer Was Always, Yes!!
“And when the time comes, you’ll wonder things like, should I ask this woman to marry me? And the answer is yes.”
June was such a breath of fresh air.
She wasn’t loud. She wasn’t trying to prove herself. She wasn’t one of those heroines who walks into every room demanding attention.
And somehow that made her even more memorable.
June felt things deeply. She carried her trauma with her in ways that felt authentic and painfully human. There was something incredibly endearing about watching her navigate life while trying to protect herself from getting hurt.
At first glance, her timid nature might make people underestimate her.
That would be a mistake.
Because underneath that softness was someone witty, intelligent, funny, caring, and surprisingly resilient.
I loved the way her trauma was handled. It never felt like a plot device. It felt like a genuine part of who she was and how she viewed the world.
More importantly, she fit Flynn perfectly.
Not because she fixed him.
Not because he fixed her.
But because together they somehow created something bigger than either of them could have managed alone.
I don’t really believe in soulmates.
But if soulmates exist, Flynn and June would be my strongest argument in favor of them.
The Real Magic Was Never Magic
One thing I struggled with at the beginning was my own expectations.
I kept waiting for something else.
I was looking for world-building.
I was looking for secrets.
I was looking for drama, deception, power, and magic.
What I got instead was something far more meaningful.
The magic in this story wasn’t power.
The magic was found family.
The magic was true love.
The magic was people choosing each other over and over again.
And honestly, I think that’s why this book worked so well for me.
The side characters were wonderful. There were very few people I actively disliked. In fact, I can’t think of anyone I truly disliked at all. Even the characters I wasn’t particularly invested in never felt annoying or unnecessary.
Everyone felt like they belonged.
Everyone felt like they had good intentions.
Everyone felt human.
And after reading so many books where you’re constantly waiting for someone to betray someone else, there was something incredibly comforting about being surrounded by people with genuinely good hearts.
This book reminded me what it feels like to trust characters.
Final Thoughts from Someone Who Wasn’t Ready to Let Go
This ended up being a 4.25-star read for me.
Would I have liked to rate it higher? Absolutely.
There was one recurring point of conflict between Flynn and June that occasionally frustrated me because it felt a little hypocritical from both sides. The thing is, both of their perspectives were completely valid. My frustration came from not wanting to watch them go through it rather than believing it was poorly written.
If anything, that conflict probably made the story feel more realistic.
So that’s very much a me problem and not a Jewel problem.
If you’re looking for a book with incredible comedic timing, hilarious dialogue, lovable idiots, found family, past secrets, emotional growth, and a romance that feels deeply human, pick this one up.
And if you’re looking for proof that a story doesn’t need grand magic systems to feel magical, this book might just convince you.
Most of all, it reminded me why I enjoy reading in the first place.
Because sometimes all you need is two idiots falling in love.
There are so many swoon-worthy dialogues in this book that I genuinely wish I could quote every single page. Unfortunately for you all, I’m saving most of those for Instagram, so keep your eyes peeled for that review.
Two Brain Cells, One Love Story
I think one of the things Jewel E. Ann does exceptionally well is make me fall in love with characters, tropes, and situations that I would normally avoid. She somehow takes ideas that should not work for me and turns them into something charming, lovable, and impossible to put down.
This book was exactly what I needed.
After my last read emotionally dragged me through the trenches, I needed something lighthearted. I needed something human. I needed people who felt real and conversations that felt natural. I needed a story that would make me laugh without sacrificing emotion.
And this book delivered all of it.
There were moments where I laughed out loud. There were moments where I felt my chest tighten. There were moments where I found myself smiling at my iPad like an idiot.
Jewel’s sense of humor is one of my favorite things about her writing. It never feels forced. The jokes land because they feel like things actual people would say. Her writing style is equally effortless. I flew through this book without ever feeling like I was reading it. I was simply experiencing it.
Living on a Couch, Living in My Head Rent Free
“I love you, and I don’t know why you would love me, because there is nothing special about me, but you said those words to me, and no one has ever said those words to me.”
Flynn.
Where do I even begin?
If someone had described Flynn to me before I started this book, I would have been convinced he wasn’t my type of MMC.
The man was dirty. He was living on a couch. He was chaotic. He made questionable decisions. He was, quite frankly, an idiot.
And yet somehow I fell completely in love with him.
If I had to describe Flynn using only one word, it would genuinely be idiot.
A lovable idiot, but an idiot nonetheless.
What made him so compelling was how ordinary he was. He wasn’t some larger-than-life fantasy hero. He wasn’t impossibly wealthy or powerful or mysterious. He felt like someone you could easily overlook if you passed him on the street.
But then he opens his mouth.
And suddenly you can’t look away.
His dialogue made me swoon. His thoughts made me laugh. His interactions made me laugh. His worldview made me laugh. Honestly, Flynn existing made me laugh.
But beneath all that humor was someone incredibly kind.
He was a giver through and through.
I also loved how strongly he held onto his beliefs regarding money, power, and society. Those beliefs shaped him. They were a part of his identity. Watching him slowly realize that some things are worth more than being right, and that some people are worth more than the walls we build around our convictions, was one of the most beautifully executed parts of the story.
The Answer Was Always, Yes!!
“And when the time comes, you’ll wonder things like, should I ask this woman to marry me? And the answer is yes.”
June was such a breath of fresh air.
She wasn’t loud. She wasn’t trying to prove herself. She wasn’t one of those heroines who walks into every room demanding attention.
And somehow that made her even more memorable.
June felt things deeply. She carried her trauma with her in ways that felt authentic and painfully human. There was something incredibly endearing about watching her navigate life while trying to protect herself from getting hurt.
At first glance, her timid nature might make people underestimate her.
That would be a mistake.
Because underneath that softness was someone witty, intelligent, funny, caring, and surprisingly resilient.
I loved the way her trauma was handled. It never felt like a plot device. It felt like a genuine part of who she was and how she viewed the world.
More importantly, she fit Flynn perfectly.
Not because she fixed him.
Not because he fixed her.
But because together they somehow created something bigger than either of them could have managed alone.
I don’t really believe in soulmates.
But if soulmates exist, Flynn and June would be my strongest argument in favor of them.
The Real Magic Was Never Magic
One thing I struggled with at the beginning was my own expectations.
I kept waiting for something else.
I was looking for world-building.
I was looking for secrets.
I was looking for drama, deception, power, and magic.
What I got instead was something far more meaningful.
The magic in this story wasn’t power.
The magic was found family.
The magic was true love.
The magic was people choosing each other over and over again.
And honestly, I think that’s why this book worked so well for me.
The side characters were wonderful. There were very few people I actively disliked. In fact, I can’t think of anyone I truly disliked at all. Even the characters I wasn’t particularly invested in never felt annoying or unnecessary.
Everyone felt like they belonged.
Everyone felt like they had good intentions.
Everyone felt human.
And after reading so many books where you’re constantly waiting for someone to betray someone else, there was something incredibly comforting about being surrounded by people with genuinely good hearts.
This book reminded me what it feels like to trust characters.
Final Thoughts from Someone Who Wasn’t Ready to Let Go
This ended up being a 4.25-star read for me.
Would I have liked to rate it higher? Absolutely.
There was one recurring point of conflict between Flynn and June that occasionally frustrated me because it felt a little hypocritical from both sides. The thing is, both of their perspectives were completely valid. My frustration came from not wanting to watch them go through it rather than believing it was poorly written.
If anything, that conflict probably made the story feel more realistic.
So that’s very much a me problem and not a Jewel problem.
If you’re looking for a book with incredible comedic timing, hilarious dialogue, lovable idiots, found family, past secrets, emotional growth, and a romance that feels deeply human, pick this one up.
And if you’re looking for proof that a story doesn’t need grand magic systems to feel magical, this book might just convince you.
Most of all, it reminded me why I enjoy reading in the first place.
Because sometimes all you need is two idiots falling in love.
June 8, 2026
4.5 stars
May 28, 2026
Clever heartwarming story of Accidental romance, defying all odds. Big heart, Honest sentiments and hilarious relation make it a memorable read indeed. Swoon worthy hero meets an adorable heroine and a genuine, grounding connection gets you a rom-com till angst comes crashing in.
Two people from different stratospheres of society, talent and status are not a likely pairing, but the mud vein that connects soul mates is pulsing strong. From razor-sharp banter to deep emotional twists, their chemistry is scorching from the first meet-cute.
“ “You’re my favorite person, June. So everything you do becomes my favorite thing.””
Only jewel can make improbable situation be launching pad for deep connection situation. The title is dual pronged. A Muse is “A source of inspiration for a creative person” but also to be a better version of themselves.
“Dyslexic. Delinquent. Dropout.”
Good man stuck in bad life. A diamond in the rough, waiting for someone to notice his Brilliance and fire
Instead of a Rollercoaster, it's Set on a gently swinging pace. Even and steady, you gently fall in love with June the biker & Finn Morley, the guy with shittiest eating grin that could knock your socks off in an instant. I found myself compulsively following in love with him from the get go. I wish it went a little faster, cause it felt a little stretched in the middle.
His inappropriately blurting out his thoughts, his nature of thinking about everyone ahead of himself and kindness polish his personality like a diamond. The connoisseurs who spot his radiance are grieving Rawlings, loyal trusted friend Monroe and A girl hiding from the world in plain sight.
““I’m Flynn Morley, a full-time muse and part-time idiot who really likes you.””
In helping Callie, he “open his doors” to let loose his psyche from moralistic biases that cloud his logic. The "come to Jesus" moment was particularly hard to read but cathartic too.
The surprise was enormous and I DM'd jewel all in caps!!
A slow burn but the dynamic between them and delicious tension of "when will they", more than Made up for it. After a long hold-up, the train chugged forward and then hands off was an impossibility. Their stolen spicy moments were sizzling and hilarious...for others!!
The Rawlings - Callie and esp Rupert are endearing and intriguing. Their own healing journey brings closure to everyone
I'm a huge fan so obvo I'm besotted with her writing, Fingerlicking good like chicken fingers and fries
Happiness is not A world away, it's right here, in the Canary clutching hands of Flynn Morley
“5 stars for Poetic Accidental Romance”
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Two people from different stratospheres of society, talent and status are not a likely pairing, but the mud vein that connects soul mates is pulsing strong. From razor-sharp banter to deep emotional twists, their chemistry is scorching from the first meet-cute.
“ “You’re my favorite person, June. So everything you do becomes my favorite thing.””
Only jewel can make improbable situation be launching pad for deep connection situation. The title is dual pronged. A Muse is “A source of inspiration for a creative person” but also to be a better version of themselves.
“Dyslexic. Delinquent. Dropout.”
Good man stuck in bad life. A diamond in the rough, waiting for someone to notice his Brilliance and fire
Instead of a Rollercoaster, it's Set on a gently swinging pace. Even and steady, you gently fall in love with June the biker & Finn Morley, the guy with shittiest eating grin that could knock your socks off in an instant. I found myself compulsively following in love with him from the get go. I wish it went a little faster, cause it felt a little stretched in the middle.
His inappropriately blurting out his thoughts, his nature of thinking about everyone ahead of himself and kindness polish his personality like a diamond. The connoisseurs who spot his radiance are grieving Rawlings, loyal trusted friend Monroe and A girl hiding from the world in plain sight.
““I’m Flynn Morley, a full-time muse and part-time idiot who really likes you.””
In helping Callie, he “open his doors” to let loose his psyche from moralistic biases that cloud his logic. The "come to Jesus" moment was particularly hard to read but cathartic too.
The surprise was enormous and I DM'd jewel all in caps!!
A slow burn but the dynamic between them and delicious tension of "when will they", more than Made up for it. After a long hold-up, the train chugged forward and then hands off was an impossibility. Their stolen spicy moments were sizzling and hilarious...for others!!
The Rawlings - Callie and esp Rupert are endearing and intriguing. Their own healing journey brings closure to everyone
I'm a huge fan so obvo I'm besotted with her writing, Fingerlicking good like chicken fingers and fries
Happiness is not A world away, it's right here, in the Canary clutching hands of Flynn Morley
“5 stars for Poetic Accidental Romance”
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻 TikTok 🌻 StoryGraph 🌻 YouTube 🌻
May 30, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ I always expect the unexpected with JEA. One minute I’m laughing out loud, and the next I’m crying. One thing you can always count on with her books is the hardcore ANGST. The originality in her storylines honestly blows me away every time.
I absolutely loved these characters. Their witty banter and playful teasing made them so fun to read, but what I loved most was how differently they grew up while still finding common ground with each other. This story was so emotional and moving. I found myself really rooting for Flynn and feeling for everything he went through. He deserved someone patient enough to look past his mistakes, and June was exactly that person. Flynn’s vulnerability and innocence felt so genuine and heartfelt. These two were honestly perfect for each other.
JEA can do no wrong in my eyes and will forever be an auto-buy author for me. Thank you so much to Jewel & Valentine PR for the ARC.
I absolutely loved these characters. Their witty banter and playful teasing made them so fun to read, but what I loved most was how differently they grew up while still finding common ground with each other. This story was so emotional and moving. I found myself really rooting for Flynn and feeling for everything he went through. He deserved someone patient enough to look past his mistakes, and June was exactly that person. Flynn’s vulnerability and innocence felt so genuine and heartfelt. These two were honestly perfect for each other.
JEA can do no wrong in my eyes and will forever be an auto-buy author for me. Thank you so much to Jewel & Valentine PR for the ARC.
May 28, 2026
I honestly don’t know how Jewel E. Ann does it each and every time. An amazing story with a unique premise that will capture you from the very first sentence. The Muse is tragically beautiful, heartfelt and full of love, pain, surprises and beauty within the darkness.
"It's just a feeling. And that says a lot coming from me because I shut off my feelings years ago."
From the very first sentence we are thrown into a world that is unlike anything I've ever read before. But that is the beauty of a JEA book. She will take you on a journey with unique characters and give you a love story like nothing else. Flynn is the bad boy that isn't all bad, with a past that has led him to make poor choices. And when his latest poor choice leads him to a wealthy couple, his life is upended in the most unusual, yet meaningful way. Meanwhile, June is all sunshine and exudes goodness. She gives local bike tours, but has a past and is harboring secrets of her own. She doesn't let others in easily, but for some reason the she has an immediate pull to Flynn, who catches her eye but everything is telling her that he will break her heart.
'She said I should find the man who will break my heart for the rest of my life because that means he knows how to put it back together.'
This book was just EVERYTHING! Full of humor, layered connections and amazing dialogue, intense chemistry, flirtatious banter and oh so dang emotional on so many levels. I was laughing and giggling one minute, then crying the next. Sometimes in happiness, sometimes in sadness. It's a messy love story where two characters have baggage and secrets that could ruin what they are building if they choose to. I loved the easy yet tension-filled romantic connection Flynn and June had, but yet were so very different and obviously came from different worlds. The way Flynn showed he cared had me grasping at my heart and smiling. And then the way June listened and opened her heart? It was just a connection that I could feel deep in my soul. But I can't forget Rupert and Callie. Because the way Jewel intertwined their lives and interactions into the story and into Flynn's overall arc was life changing and had me all up in my feels.
"I'm not asking you to replace anyone we've lost. I'm just asking you to give her a new focus. And I don't care if you don't know what you're doing. Just keep....doing it."
If you're ready to highlight a book with so many poignant passages like I did and experience all the emotions of beautifully flawed characters (like the accidental romantic; iykyk) that grow and put you through the wringer with some wonderful surprises along the way, do not sleep on The Muse. AND if you've read some of JEA's backlist, you're going to squeal in delight with some surprise easter eggs.
Simply love and cannot recommend this one enough!
"I don't want you to fit into my world, June. I want you to be my world."
"It's just a feeling. And that says a lot coming from me because I shut off my feelings years ago."
From the very first sentence we are thrown into a world that is unlike anything I've ever read before. But that is the beauty of a JEA book. She will take you on a journey with unique characters and give you a love story like nothing else. Flynn is the bad boy that isn't all bad, with a past that has led him to make poor choices. And when his latest poor choice leads him to a wealthy couple, his life is upended in the most unusual, yet meaningful way. Meanwhile, June is all sunshine and exudes goodness. She gives local bike tours, but has a past and is harboring secrets of her own. She doesn't let others in easily, but for some reason the she has an immediate pull to Flynn, who catches her eye but everything is telling her that he will break her heart.
'She said I should find the man who will break my heart for the rest of my life because that means he knows how to put it back together.'
This book was just EVERYTHING! Full of humor, layered connections and amazing dialogue, intense chemistry, flirtatious banter and oh so dang emotional on so many levels. I was laughing and giggling one minute, then crying the next. Sometimes in happiness, sometimes in sadness. It's a messy love story where two characters have baggage and secrets that could ruin what they are building if they choose to. I loved the easy yet tension-filled romantic connection Flynn and June had, but yet were so very different and obviously came from different worlds. The way Flynn showed he cared had me grasping at my heart and smiling. And then the way June listened and opened her heart? It was just a connection that I could feel deep in my soul. But I can't forget Rupert and Callie. Because the way Jewel intertwined their lives and interactions into the story and into Flynn's overall arc was life changing and had me all up in my feels.
"I'm not asking you to replace anyone we've lost. I'm just asking you to give her a new focus. And I don't care if you don't know what you're doing. Just keep....doing it."
If you're ready to highlight a book with so many poignant passages like I did and experience all the emotions of beautifully flawed characters (like the accidental romantic; iykyk) that grow and put you through the wringer with some wonderful surprises along the way, do not sleep on The Muse. AND if you've read some of JEA's backlist, you're going to squeal in delight with some surprise easter eggs.
Simply love and cannot recommend this one enough!
"I don't want you to fit into my world, June. I want you to be my world."
June 2, 2026
This is the second book in the Chain Of Lakes series. Just Like with The Homemaker, I ate this one up and couldn't put it down. It was just so comforting, emotional, and yet heartwarming.
June 4, 2026
3.5 stars ⭐️
May 28, 2026
I've read this book in less than a day, so there's that!😅
This was an exciting read that I couldn't put down. I loved the premise and the characters, both the main ones and even more so the secondary ones. Rupert and Callie stole my heart❤️ I was very invested in the personal stories of the characters, wanted them to achieve their goals, dreams, battle their demons, and come victorious in the end.
This book is unique to Jewel (at least in my experience) because it centers more on the male character; we spend more time in his POV and get to see the inner workings of his mind more than the heroine's. But at the same time, the way he talks, thinks, and his backstory are very similar to the way her heroines are written, so it was throwing me for a loop.
The only thing missing for me personally was my emotional investment in the couple. I didn't dislike them together at all, but neither did I love them or root for them to be together. I enjoyed the story for what it was and would honestly be equally happy if they ended up together or broke up in the end. So for that, it's a 4-star read.
This was an exciting read that I couldn't put down. I loved the premise and the characters, both the main ones and even more so the secondary ones. Rupert and Callie stole my heart❤️ I was very invested in the personal stories of the characters, wanted them to achieve their goals, dreams, battle their demons, and come victorious in the end.
This book is unique to Jewel (at least in my experience) because it centers more on the male character; we spend more time in his POV and get to see the inner workings of his mind more than the heroine's. But at the same time, the way he talks, thinks, and his backstory are very similar to the way her heroines are written, so it was throwing me for a loop.
The only thing missing for me personally was my emotional investment in the couple. I didn't dislike them together at all, but neither did I love them or root for them to be together. I enjoyed the story for what it was and would honestly be equally happy if they ended up together or broke up in the end. So for that, it's a 4-star read.
May 31, 2026
This one hit me right in the chest. I connected with both of these characters. I admired how Flynn’s instinct to shrink himself, to expect less, to brace for disappointment is written with such care and compassion. It never feels exaggerated. The story understands how terrifying it can be to be offered something good when you have spent your whole life surviving. That theme runs through every page and gives the romance so much emotional depth. The romance is tender and there is a sense of ease between them. I loved how their love is not about rescue or fixing each other, but about being seen and choosing to stay. The writing is understated and beautiful. I finished this book feeling softer and found it deeply enjoyable.
Review of advance copy received from Author
June + Flynn
Flynn is 25 years old and his life hasn't been easy. His mom left when he was only three and from then it's been bad foster families and juvie and jail and jobs that barely keep him housed and fed.
Now he's been hired by this rich guy in his fifties to be a muse to his wife.
Flynn has no idea what that means - nothing sexual though, says the guy.
June is 26 and working as a bike tour guide in Minneapolis.
It's inta like/love between those too, but they're both hiding a lot...
══════════════════
That was so adorable!
Poor Flynn. He never really had any luck in life and he's still this sweet and positive guy. Half still a kid and half super grown up and wise. And now he got this strange but amazing new job and met the girl of his dreams. Dreams he never knew he could have.
Those two are so adorable. But also so broken and hurt from things in their past.
Flynn's bosses are amazing - with sad hurtful things of their own.
June's parents are amazing ... we already know them as long-time Jewel readers.
→ click
I just loved reading this!
And we might have also already met the star of book #3 - a super grumpy vet! GIMME!
THE MUSE was such a sweet and funny and sparky and sexy and adorable and heartbreaking love story. Run to your nearest book dealer for your own accidental romantic poet Flynn - he'll be sold out in no time!
If you can't click the buy-links
from your phone - click ► HERE!
💜
💜
June 26, 2026
4.5 ⭐️'s
I really enjoyed Flynn and June but mainly Flynn. He was just too sweet in his innocence and his vulnerability just got to me.
His relationship with Rupert was soo special. I wish there was more page time between them.
I was so excited to find out who June’s parents were! (I loved their book.)
Their secrets were impactful and interesting to see how they played out with each other.
Of course, my favorite is the epilogue.
However, I did have one issue...and that was with Rupert and Callie not having any kind of resolution...or at least something. But that got me thinking...what if the next book is about Sean?
I really enjoyed Flynn and June but mainly Flynn. He was just too sweet in his innocence and his vulnerability just got to me.
His relationship with Rupert was soo special. I wish there was more page time between them.
I was so excited to find out who June’s parents were! (I loved their book.)
Their secrets were impactful and interesting to see how they played out with each other.
Of course, my favorite is the epilogue.
However, I did have one issue...and that was with Rupert and Callie not having any kind of resolution...or at least something. But that got me thinking...what if the next book is about Sean?
May 31, 2026
I hate to say it but The Muse by Jewel E Ann was boring. It was so hard to finish and it wasn’t for the author I would have gave up halfway through.
The book is mostly written in the POV of Flynn and June. Flynn is in his mid 20’s, former abused foster kid who now lives on his buddy’s couch, has a criminal record, and was caught joy riding cars at his job. While other readers might fall for his sad past I just couldn’t get into him as a male lead. I had zero connection to him or interest…. He meets June and it’s almost like love at first sight. Flynn also gets a job working for a wealthy family as a “muse”, the wife needs a reason to live and the husband believes Flynn is the man to help. It’s weird. But the story did keep my interest the first 50% in.
While I did not care for Flynn or June. I kept waiting for something to begin between Flynn and this wealthy family he is working for. That part of the story held my interest way more than the romance between Flynn & June. I was waiting for something to happen… a big twist and turn in the story. There was nothing. Nada.
The book focuses more on June and Flynn. Which again I had no connection to or cared for. Their love story was meh….
Nothing really happens. There was some small miscommunication but nothing overly dramatic comes about. Unfortunately this was a big bust and I usually adore Jewel E Ann’s novels.
I give The Muse by Jewel E Ann 2 stars.
The book is mostly written in the POV of Flynn and June. Flynn is in his mid 20’s, former abused foster kid who now lives on his buddy’s couch, has a criminal record, and was caught joy riding cars at his job. While other readers might fall for his sad past I just couldn’t get into him as a male lead. I had zero connection to him or interest…. He meets June and it’s almost like love at first sight. Flynn also gets a job working for a wealthy family as a “muse”, the wife needs a reason to live and the husband believes Flynn is the man to help. It’s weird. But the story did keep my interest the first 50% in.
While I did not care for Flynn or June. I kept waiting for something to begin between Flynn and this wealthy family he is working for. That part of the story held my interest way more than the romance between Flynn & June. I was waiting for something to happen… a big twist and turn in the story. There was nothing. Nada.
The book focuses more on June and Flynn. Which again I had no connection to or cared for. Their love story was meh….
Nothing really happens. There was some small miscommunication but nothing overly dramatic comes about. Unfortunately this was a big bust and I usually adore Jewel E Ann’s novels.
I give The Muse by Jewel E Ann 2 stars.
June 11, 2026
so many stars I could create a constellation
This was brilliant. Flynn is perfect. That is all. Except Amazon says I need 11 more words. Perfect perfect perfect
This was brilliant. Flynn is perfect. That is all. Except Amazon says I need 11 more words. Perfect perfect perfect
May 30, 2026
Another Jewel book, and again I'm left in tears... 🥹🫶
This woman truly speaks my love language. I just loved EVERYTHING about this.
I laughed my ass off, OUT LOUD, repeatedly.
Then I bawled my eyes out... also repeatedly 🤣😭
Flynn is an MMC like you've never encountered before. He has a VERY traumatic past, his body covered in scars to prove it, but he's not your typical broody broken boy. He's a little ray of sunshine, honest to a fault, has ZERO filter and spits out anything that crosses his mind, even to his own detriment.. 🤣
“What?” She chuckles while pushing off the sofa toward me. “You’re leaving?”
“I think it’s for the best. Might be a good idea for me to spend some time alone, contemplating all the stupid things I’ve done and said since we met.”
Flynn steals your heart. IMMEDIATELY. He naturally steals June's also. While she's a little hesitant at first (his red flags practically slapping her face), she can't help falling head over heels for this absolutely adorable human.
But June has a secret. One she knows he will absolutely hate... And Flynn has one too, one he is afraid will definitely push her away...
However... ”Honesty requires vulnerability.
Vulnerability needs trust.
And love … Well, it’s all about timing.” 🫶
And then there are Rupert and Callie. The real MVPs of the story...
“I’ll tell you what’s behind my door, if you tell me what’s behind yours,” I say.
Callie tilts her head to the side and gives me a sad smile. “That’s kind … and brave of you.”
She steps behind me and wraps her arms around my neck. She smells like flowers, but different ones than June.
They are the parents he's never had, and he's the son they desperately need...
The Muse is a story about finding love, a family and a home. All of it for the very first time, all of it at the SAME time, ...and in the strangest places 😂🥹🫶
*^*^*
When we kiss, I vow never to kiss another. If she leaves me, I will not kiss another woman.
This is it. June is my all or nothing.
“I love you,” I say between kisses. “My first, now, and always.”
“Baby,” she grins, kissing a line from my jaw to my neck, tightening her grip on my shirt, “don’t ever say you’re not good with words. You’re the most poetic accidental romantic.”
I chuckle because I don’t know what an accidental romantic is, but as long as she calls me her “baby” and kisses my neck, she can call me anything.
This woman truly speaks my love language. I just loved EVERYTHING about this.
I laughed my ass off, OUT LOUD, repeatedly.
Then I bawled my eyes out... also repeatedly 🤣😭
Flynn is an MMC like you've never encountered before. He has a VERY traumatic past, his body covered in scars to prove it, but he's not your typical broody broken boy. He's a little ray of sunshine, honest to a fault, has ZERO filter and spits out anything that crosses his mind, even to his own detriment.. 🤣
“What?” She chuckles while pushing off the sofa toward me. “You’re leaving?”
“I think it’s for the best. Might be a good idea for me to spend some time alone, contemplating all the stupid things I’ve done and said since we met.”
Flynn steals your heart. IMMEDIATELY. He naturally steals June's also. While she's a little hesitant at first (his red flags practically slapping her face), she can't help falling head over heels for this absolutely adorable human.
But June has a secret. One she knows he will absolutely hate... And Flynn has one too, one he is afraid will definitely push her away...
However... ”Honesty requires vulnerability.
Vulnerability needs trust.
And love … Well, it’s all about timing.” 🫶
And then there are Rupert and Callie. The real MVPs of the story...
“I’ll tell you what’s behind my door, if you tell me what’s behind yours,” I say.
Callie tilts her head to the side and gives me a sad smile. “That’s kind … and brave of you.”
She steps behind me and wraps her arms around my neck. She smells like flowers, but different ones than June.
They are the parents he's never had, and he's the son they desperately need...
The Muse is a story about finding love, a family and a home. All of it for the very first time, all of it at the SAME time, ...and in the strangest places 😂🥹🫶
*^*^*
When we kiss, I vow never to kiss another. If she leaves me, I will not kiss another woman.
This is it. June is my all or nothing.
“I love you,” I say between kisses. “My first, now, and always.”
“Baby,” she grins, kissing a line from my jaw to my neck, tightening her grip on my shirt, “don’t ever say you’re not good with words. You’re the most poetic accidental romantic.”
I chuckle because I don’t know what an accidental romantic is, but as long as she calls me her “baby” and kisses my neck, she can call me anything.
May 29, 2026
I know I’m in for quite a ride when I pick up a Jewel E. Ann book. This book is no exception. These two characters are perfectly imperfect.
Flynn. I just wanted to give him a giant hug and tell him he is absolutely worthy of love. The things that poor man has been through. And then we have sweet June. While she hasn’t had it nearly as bad as Flynn, she’s battled her own demons.
This book is more than just a love story. It’s about learning to trust not just others, but yourself as well. It’s about learning to overcome adversity and your own jaded viewpoints. It’s about growth. It’s about grief. It’s about self-reflection. And yes, it’s about love.
Flynn. I just wanted to give him a giant hug and tell him he is absolutely worthy of love. The things that poor man has been through. And then we have sweet June. While she hasn’t had it nearly as bad as Flynn, she’s battled her own demons.
This book is more than just a love story. It’s about learning to trust not just others, but yourself as well. It’s about learning to overcome adversity and your own jaded viewpoints. It’s about growth. It’s about grief. It’s about self-reflection. And yes, it’s about love.
May 28, 2026
I always seem to compare Jewel E Ann’s books to rollercoasters.
Because they are and I’ve learned to expect it.
And I love it.
This one I’d say is a beginner level rollercoaster.
The Muse.
Whatever you think a muse does… you’re wrong 🤣
Flynn…
We got a very broken and very bad boy.
Who gets a job with a very rich couple….
Enter June
The bike tour guide
“Good girl”
But expect her to not be “perfect”
First loves
Messy
Secrets
Imperfect
Real life
Arc review ✨
Because they are and I’ve learned to expect it.
And I love it.
This one I’d say is a beginner level rollercoaster.
The Muse.
Whatever you think a muse does… you’re wrong 🤣
Flynn…
We got a very broken and very bad boy.
Who gets a job with a very rich couple….
Enter June
The bike tour guide
“Good girl”
But expect her to not be “perfect”
First loves
Messy
Secrets
Imperfect
Real life
Arc review ✨
June 23, 2026
Flynn .. you can't help love him. His struggles are very real but he meets June and will do anything to make this girl like him.
A rich couple’s husband asks Flynn to be a Muse for his wife... who happens to be depressed.
Libby listen 🎶🎶
A rich couple’s husband asks Flynn to be a Muse for his wife... who happens to be depressed.
Libby listen 🎶🎶
June 14, 2026
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone of The Chaim of Lakes Series
POV: First Person - Multiple
Rating: 4 Stars
Flynn grew up in the foster system, he had a though growing. Therefore, his view on life is completely different from the rich entitled ones. He finds himself in a bad situation and now he feels stuck.
June is running away from her past and finds peace in Minneapolis where she has a normal job and a low key lifestyle. She meets Flynn by chance but that is all it took, they both connected instantly.
I really liked the easy relationship these two had. Flynn was so giving and carrying and yet he was very naive to some things. I liked the fact that Callie and Rupert took in Flynn into their lives even if it was to their advantage, I felt he needed them both in his life.
I found myself not being able to put the book down, the story line reads very smoothly and I just wanted to find out what were both of their secrets including Callie’s. Overall, I really enjoyed this story. Readers who like romantic books will find this book appealing.
Arc provided for honest review.
Type: Standalone of The Chaim of Lakes Series
POV: First Person - Multiple
Rating: 4 Stars
Flynn grew up in the foster system, he had a though growing. Therefore, his view on life is completely different from the rich entitled ones. He finds himself in a bad situation and now he feels stuck.
June is running away from her past and finds peace in Minneapolis where she has a normal job and a low key lifestyle. She meets Flynn by chance but that is all it took, they both connected instantly.
I really liked the easy relationship these two had. Flynn was so giving and carrying and yet he was very naive to some things. I liked the fact that Callie and Rupert took in Flynn into their lives even if it was to their advantage, I felt he needed them both in his life.
I found myself not being able to put the book down, the story line reads very smoothly and I just wanted to find out what were both of their secrets including Callie’s. Overall, I really enjoyed this story. Readers who like romantic books will find this book appealing.
Arc provided for honest review.
June 9, 2026
The Homemaker was one of my favorite books last year, so I was so excited to get another in the series!
June and Flynn have a chance meeting and there is an instant connection between them.
Flynn fascinated me. He was almost naive at times, but he had the best intentions. He had so much growth as a character and I loved how he stumbled upon his own little family. He felt loved for the first time ever and it was really beautiful.
I won’t say much about June’s story, because I don’t want to spoil anything. I love how she helped Flynn open his eyes and mind to other ways of life. These two had an amazing connection.
Rupert and Callie were such lovely additions to the story. I enjoyed the parts with them just as much as I did the main couple. I really loved how Jewel wove everything together by the end.
ARC review
🩶Blue collar MMC
🩶Good girl x Bad boy
🩶He falls first
🩶Opposites attract
🩶Found family
June and Flynn have a chance meeting and there is an instant connection between them.
Flynn fascinated me. He was almost naive at times, but he had the best intentions. He had so much growth as a character and I loved how he stumbled upon his own little family. He felt loved for the first time ever and it was really beautiful.
I won’t say much about June’s story, because I don’t want to spoil anything. I love how she helped Flynn open his eyes and mind to other ways of life. These two had an amazing connection.
Rupert and Callie were such lovely additions to the story. I enjoyed the parts with them just as much as I did the main couple. I really loved how Jewel wove everything together by the end.
ARC review
🩶Blue collar MMC
🩶Good girl x Bad boy
🩶He falls first
🩶Opposites attract
🩶Found family
May 23, 2026
I gave this 4 stars because this one was a little complicated for me in the best way. Flynn drove me crazy most of the time, yet somehow I still liked him, which made my feelings toward this story all over the place. There was so much sorrow woven throughout, but it carried such meaningful messages that really stuck with me.
I was genuinely surprised by how much I ended up loving Rupert and Callie after how they were portrayed in the first book. They completely changed my perspective. June also tested my patience at times, but she still had moments that made her likable. The romance felt a bit insta-love for me, which kept this from being a full 5 stars.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one and loved the reminder that money doesn’t equal happiness. Real happiness comes from the people you love, the memories you make, and the moments that truly matter.
I was genuinely surprised by how much I ended up loving Rupert and Callie after how they were portrayed in the first book. They completely changed my perspective. June also tested my patience at times, but she still had moments that made her likable. The romance felt a bit insta-love for me, which kept this from being a full 5 stars.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one and loved the reminder that money doesn’t equal happiness. Real happiness comes from the people you love, the memories you make, and the moments that truly matter.
June 9, 2026
“Your dad is concerned that I might have dreams that don’t align with yours.” ... “I didn’t tell him I only dream of you,” 🥹
Did Not Finish
May 30, 2026Broke my heart to DNF of the author books.
May 17, 2026
ARC Review 📚📖
Seriously; I don’t know how Jewel E. Ann always gets it right - but she does. The banter in her books always cracks me up; JEA is the type of girl I want to be in a group chat with!
💙 Opposites attract
💙 He Falls First
💙 Love and Healing
💙 Bad Boy x Good Girl
💙 Found Family
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Flynn is a mechanic who took Rupert’s car for a joyride. Rupert made Flynn a compromise - work with me or I’ll call the police. Accepting Rupert’s offer Flynn is hired. Before I get to June; I absolutely love the found family dynamics between Rupert, Cassie and Flynn. Their story is so painful and I love how JEA writes their delicate story - and the way they see a younger Rupert in Flynn 😭🥹. They have so much hope for him; MY HEART ❤️
Enter June 😍 she catches Flynn’s attention at an art museum and it was love at first sight. At first I thought “hmm what is going on.. where are you going with this JEA?”. ✅ I love where she went with it!
“June, you’re the whole damn galaxy on a cloudless night, a hundred miles out of the city.”
Flynn and June have totally different lives; falling in love so quickly that they neglect telling each other anything about their pasts. It isn’t until they do that you realise how different their life experiences have been. Then crying 😭 because you just want to make them all better 🥹🥹 I also absolutely love Junes family and they made a perfect addition to the book.
“Making her smile is quickly becoming my new obsession”
Jewel E. Ann has such a beautiful way of writing broken characters and bringing the best out of them. How does she always turn tragedy into something beautiful? I highlighted so much in The Muse - from life advice (lol), ridiculously funny quotes and so much of JEAs beautiful writing ❤️🤧
Thank you so much Jewel E Ann and Valentine PR for the ARC! I’m so grateful!
Seriously; I don’t know how Jewel E. Ann always gets it right - but she does. The banter in her books always cracks me up; JEA is the type of girl I want to be in a group chat with!
💙 Opposites attract
💙 He Falls First
💙 Love and Healing
💙 Bad Boy x Good Girl
💙 Found Family
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Flynn is a mechanic who took Rupert’s car for a joyride. Rupert made Flynn a compromise - work with me or I’ll call the police. Accepting Rupert’s offer Flynn is hired. Before I get to June; I absolutely love the found family dynamics between Rupert, Cassie and Flynn. Their story is so painful and I love how JEA writes their delicate story - and the way they see a younger Rupert in Flynn 😭🥹. They have so much hope for him; MY HEART ❤️
Enter June 😍 she catches Flynn’s attention at an art museum and it was love at first sight. At first I thought “hmm what is going on.. where are you going with this JEA?”. ✅ I love where she went with it!
“June, you’re the whole damn galaxy on a cloudless night, a hundred miles out of the city.”
Flynn and June have totally different lives; falling in love so quickly that they neglect telling each other anything about their pasts. It isn’t until they do that you realise how different their life experiences have been. Then crying 😭 because you just want to make them all better 🥹🥹 I also absolutely love Junes family and they made a perfect addition to the book.
“Making her smile is quickly becoming my new obsession”
Jewel E. Ann has such a beautiful way of writing broken characters and bringing the best out of them. How does she always turn tragedy into something beautiful? I highlighted so much in The Muse - from life advice (lol), ridiculously funny quotes and so much of JEAs beautiful writing ❤️🤧
Thank you so much Jewel E Ann and Valentine PR for the ARC! I’m so grateful!
June 4, 2026
3.45 star.
This had everything that I love and look for in a story (i.e he falls first, devoted MMC, great grovelling, character development) but for some reason, didn’t find this read as compelling or entertaining as its predecessor The Homemaker - which is the kind of book I avoid reading (love triangle, cheating, emotionally bland hero).
That’s why this book was so hard to rate. It was still interesting and funny, sweet and had emotional moments and yes, I enjoyed the idea of this couple so much more than The Homemaker. But I couldn’t rate it the same 4 stars I wanted to because I wasn’t as invested or emotionally entertained by it.
Told in dual POV with rushed HFN ending.
This had everything that I love and look for in a story (i.e he falls first, devoted MMC, great grovelling, character development) but for some reason, didn’t find this read as compelling or entertaining as its predecessor The Homemaker - which is the kind of book I avoid reading (love triangle, cheating, emotionally bland hero).
That’s why this book was so hard to rate. It was still interesting and funny, sweet and had emotional moments and yes, I enjoyed the idea of this couple so much more than The Homemaker. But I couldn’t rate it the same 4 stars I wanted to because I wasn’t as invested or emotionally entertained by it.
Told in dual POV with rushed HFN ending.
June 4, 2026
BOOK REVIEW: The Muse by Jewel E. Ann
The Muse is book 2 in The Chain of Lakes series by Jewel E. Ann and I am officially OBSESSED!
Flynn Morley’s life has not been easy. He prides himself on not needing anyone or anything and is happy just getting by. But when a spontaneous joy ride turns into him becoming a “muse” for a wealthy couple, he ends up meeting June, a bike tour guide, and their connection is instant. Flynn & June both want to live a simple life but they are both holding on to secrets that could change everything.
Read this one if you love:
🩵opposites attract
🩵bad boy/good girl
🩵he falls first
🩵German shepherd MMC
🩵found family
🩵lots of chemistry
🩵witty hilarious banter
🩵dual POV
🩵some spice🌶️🌶️
This book is just the best roller coaster of emotions! I will start by saying that the wit, banter and humor in this book was phenomenal! Flynn was always brutally honest and that made him so funny and endearing. Flynn and June’s relationship was nothing but sweet and swoon worthy. And Callie and Rupert’s characters added so many more layers to the story. I just loved how their relationship with Flynn progressed. This book does deal with some serious topics but they were all handled with care. The Homemaker, book 1 in this series, was one of my favorite reads of 2025 and The Muse is already one of my favorites of 2026! I highly recommend this series!
Thank you to Jewel E. Ann and Valentine PR for the opportunity to read an eARC of The Muse. All opinions in this review are my own.
The Muse is book 2 in The Chain of Lakes series by Jewel E. Ann and I am officially OBSESSED!
Flynn Morley’s life has not been easy. He prides himself on not needing anyone or anything and is happy just getting by. But when a spontaneous joy ride turns into him becoming a “muse” for a wealthy couple, he ends up meeting June, a bike tour guide, and their connection is instant. Flynn & June both want to live a simple life but they are both holding on to secrets that could change everything.
Read this one if you love:
🩵opposites attract
🩵bad boy/good girl
🩵he falls first
🩵German shepherd MMC
🩵found family
🩵lots of chemistry
🩵witty hilarious banter
🩵dual POV
🩵some spice🌶️🌶️
This book is just the best roller coaster of emotions! I will start by saying that the wit, banter and humor in this book was phenomenal! Flynn was always brutally honest and that made him so funny and endearing. Flynn and June’s relationship was nothing but sweet and swoon worthy. And Callie and Rupert’s characters added so many more layers to the story. I just loved how their relationship with Flynn progressed. This book does deal with some serious topics but they were all handled with care. The Homemaker, book 1 in this series, was one of my favorite reads of 2025 and The Muse is already one of my favorites of 2026! I highly recommend this series!
Thank you to Jewel E. Ann and Valentine PR for the opportunity to read an eARC of The Muse. All opinions in this review are my own.
June 2, 2026
If you've read Jewel before, you already know going in that you have absolutely no idea what you're actually in for — and honestly, that's half the fun. Having read The Homemaker (book one in this series), I thought I had a feel for what to expect in terms of tone, pacing, emotion and plot development. I did not. And I loved that this story differed from book one, making for another unique Jewel reading experience!
Flynn and June are lovable and charming in a beautifully messy, broken way — with banter and wit in spades. I loved the sarcastic humor so much. But what really caught me off guard was how much I fell for Rupert and Callie — the couple who hired Flynn as their “muse” — almost as much as the leads themselves. That's not something that happens often for me, and it says everything about how compellingly Jewel writes every single person in her stories, not just the MCs..
The plot is full of twists and puzzle pieces that slowly clicked into place, and I was hooked the whole way through. This one ran the spectrum of emotions — I did not see several moments coming — and it delivered in ways I wasn't expecting.
Without a doubt this is a read that keeps you guessing and makes you feel right along with the characters.
Thanks to Jewel and Valentine PR for this arc!
Flynn and June are lovable and charming in a beautifully messy, broken way — with banter and wit in spades. I loved the sarcastic humor so much. But what really caught me off guard was how much I fell for Rupert and Callie — the couple who hired Flynn as their “muse” — almost as much as the leads themselves. That's not something that happens often for me, and it says everything about how compellingly Jewel writes every single person in her stories, not just the MCs..
The plot is full of twists and puzzle pieces that slowly clicked into place, and I was hooked the whole way through. This one ran the spectrum of emotions — I did not see several moments coming — and it delivered in ways I wasn't expecting.
Without a doubt this is a read that keeps you guessing and makes you feel right along with the characters.
Thanks to Jewel and Valentine PR for this arc!
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