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Play Me #4
Make Me: a Second Chance, Marriage of Convenience Romance
I’ve always hated being told what to do.
Imagine my surprise when my grandmother calls me back to Sugar Creek and casually informs me that she’s leaving me the farmhouse I grew up in and a sizable inheritance.
There’s just one tiny little catch.
I must prove I understand our family’s legacy, and that I can stop chasing whims and put down roots … by marrying Hartley Adler.
Imagine my surprise when my grandmother calls me back to Sugar Creek and casually informs me that she’s leaving me the farmhouse I grew up in and a sizable inheritance.
There’s just one tiny little catch.
I must prove I understand our family’s legacy, and that I can stop chasing whims and put down roots … by marrying Hartley Adler.
284 pages, Paperback
First published April 24, 2026
About the author
Adriana Locke
123 books16.3k followersAdriana Locke is a USA Today and Amazon Charts Bestselling author with a knack for writing swoony, unforgettable contemporary romances. At nineteen, she traded her small-town roots for big-city life, only to realize her heart beats for quiet mornings and cozy chaos. These days, she’s living her happily-ever-after in Ohio with Mr. Locke—her high school sweetheart—four lively sons, and two hilariously hyper Jack Russell terriers.
When she’s not penning love stories that will leave you laughing and sighing, Adriana is battling the epic quest of missing silverware, “gardening” (a.k.a. chatting with her plants), or leaving her grocery list on the counter as she heads to the store. Grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let her books whisk you away to a world of heartwarming romance and irresistible heroes.
When she’s not penning love stories that will leave you laughing and sighing, Adriana is battling the epic quest of missing silverware, “gardening” (a.k.a. chatting with her plants), or leaving her grocery list on the counter as she heads to the store. Grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let her books whisk you away to a world of heartwarming romance and irresistible heroes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 561 reviews
May 19, 2026
“I’ve waited my whole life to hear you say you love me again. I started to believe that it would never happen.”
“What would you have done if it didn’t?”
“I’d have loved you anyway.”
Hartley Mother F*ckin Adler 😩
I obviously binged this book, only putting it down to put my kids to bed. I have been counting down the days until it came out. Hartley and Mira and the perfect second chance couple. And I strive to be like Lolly when I grow up.
So, SO good! I’m already excited for the next book!
P.S. Brooks is still my man, but Hartley is definitely up there!
“What would you have done if it didn’t?”
“I’d have loved you anyway.”
Hartley Mother F*ckin Adler 😩
I obviously binged this book, only putting it down to put my kids to bed. I have been counting down the days until it came out. Hartley and Mira and the perfect second chance couple. And I strive to be like Lolly when I grow up.
So, SO good! I’m already excited for the next book!
P.S. Brooks is still my man, but Hartley is definitely up there!
May 22, 2026
Make Me by Adriana Locke
📚Play Me, Book 4
Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Adult • Romance
📖295 Pages
🗓️May 22
💜second chance
💜marriage of convenience
💜friends to lovers
💜small town
💜slow burn
💜it’s always been you
🔎“I’ve waited my whole life to hear you say you love me again. I started to believe that it would never happen.”
“What would you have done if it didn’t?”
“I’d have loved you anyway.”
Hartley and the man you are.
How can anyone resist a second chance + marriage of convenience?! Nobody. Not a single person in this whole wide world. It’s such a good combo and if you throw in how they’re still friends, mutually pining, and one meddling grandmother... There was no way this book would end up being anything but five stars.
And five stars it was.
I was so utterly entertained by Hartley and Mira (and her sister, and Brooks... always Brooks!) that I finished this book in a blink of an eye. The “just one more chapter to see if they say f it” got me good and I have less than zero regrets.
And now, I’m sitting here hoping and wishing for book 5!
📚Play Me, Book 4
Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Adult • Romance
📖295 Pages
🗓️May 22
💜second chance
💜marriage of convenience
💜friends to lovers
💜small town
💜slow burn
💜it’s always been you
🔎“I’ve waited my whole life to hear you say you love me again. I started to believe that it would never happen.”
“What would you have done if it didn’t?”
“I’d have loved you anyway.”
Hartley and the man you are.
How can anyone resist a second chance + marriage of convenience?! Nobody. Not a single person in this whole wide world. It’s such a good combo and if you throw in how they’re still friends, mutually pining, and one meddling grandmother... There was no way this book would end up being anything but five stars.
And five stars it was.
I was so utterly entertained by Hartley and Mira (and her sister, and Brooks... always Brooks!) that I finished this book in a blink of an eye. The “just one more chapter to see if they say f it” got me good and I have less than zero regrets.
And now, I’m sitting here hoping and wishing for book 5!
July 24, 2026
Usually my favorite hero isn't the next. I fall in love, and stick to my man until the end!
I'll have to excuse myself to Brooks, cause Hartley was just that kinda of patient, calm, understanding and completely in love since he was a child! He's just swooning material!
Mira was so lost in grieve, that she didn't want to risk any emotional attachment, and as someone who also lived his own similar pain, he just let her be, without ever forget, let go or move on with his own life.
It's fast paced and beautiful to see her letting go and embracing all the love everyone have for them.
Bonus points for the lack of 3rd act breakup!
This book wasn't what I was expecting, and I loved it!
I'll have to excuse myself to Brooks, cause Hartley was just that kinda of patient, calm, understanding and completely in love since he was a child! He's just swooning material!
Mira was so lost in grieve, that she didn't want to risk any emotional attachment, and as someone who also lived his own similar pain, he just let her be, without ever forget, let go or move on with his own life.
It's fast paced and beautiful to see her letting go and embracing all the love everyone have for them.
Bonus points for the lack of 3rd act breakup!
This book wasn't what I was expecting, and I loved it!
May 31, 2026
Two people perfect for each other but won't be together? And the fake marriage that MAKES them be together?? Yes please!
Mira and Hartley are great friends. Friends that should be (want to be?) Together but they're not. Mira has suffered some loss and doesn't want to be in the town she was raised in. Hartley will never leave. So they definitely can't be together... Until grandma pops up with a plan.
To keep her from selling to developers they are forced to get married. And man, I don't think I'd read the fake marriage trope with a MMC who is so down for the FMC.
It was romantic with how crazy he was for her. And everyone knew it. She, on the other hand was a little bit more of a mystery. She loved him for sure but I wasn't a hundred percent sure how much. She depended on him, cared for him...
There's of course the amazing and hilarious cast from the previous novels that popped in with quips. And the grandma!
These two were meant to be. Just took them around the block to get there.
I'm definitely hoping that the sister is next!!!
Mira and Hartley are great friends. Friends that should be (want to be?) Together but they're not. Mira has suffered some loss and doesn't want to be in the town she was raised in. Hartley will never leave. So they definitely can't be together... Until grandma pops up with a plan.
To keep her from selling to developers they are forced to get married. And man, I don't think I'd read the fake marriage trope with a MMC who is so down for the FMC.
It was romantic with how crazy he was for her. And everyone knew it. She, on the other hand was a little bit more of a mystery. She loved him for sure but I wasn't a hundred percent sure how much. She depended on him, cared for him...
There's of course the amazing and hilarious cast from the previous novels that popped in with quips. And the grandma!
These two were meant to be. Just took them around the block to get there.
I'm definitely hoping that the sister is next!!!
May 31, 2026
HARTLEY…I am going to be thinking about this man for a WHILE 🥹💜
This book gave me everything I love in a romance: marriage of convenience, second chances, slow burn tension, pining, yearning, found family, small-town charm, and a hero who is so completely gone for one woman that it hurts.
Hartley has loved Mira forever, and this man would do absolutely anything for her. What I loved most about him is that he never tries to force her hand. He knows she’s spent her life running from hard things, from grief, from loss, and from anything that feels too good to trust. He doesn’t push. He waits. He supports. He shows up. Quietly. Consistently. Patiently. 💜
I adored Mira! She’s so used to leaving before she can get hurt that she doesn’t know how to stay. Watching her slowly work through her grief, learn to trust Hartley, and finally believe she deserves love and happiness was such a beautiful journey.
The chemistry between these two was 🤌🏻🔥. The tension had me kicking my feet, the spice was perfection, and the “we absolutely should not be doing this...but we desperately want to” energy was everything.
This book had me laughing just as much as it had me swooning. The text messages were hilarious, Lolly is an absolute gem, Pigasso the pig 🐷 deserves his own fan club, and every time I read Hartley’s chapters, I swear I heard Teddy Hamilton’s voice in my head 😂
And Adriana Locke...thank you for skipping the miscommunication trope and random third-act breakup. I appreciate you more than you know. 🤍
This is book 4 in the Play Me series, and while it absolutely works as a standalone, these two clearly have so much history that I immediately wanted to go back and start at book 1. I loved spending time with all of these characters, and honestly, I should probably be punished for waiting this long to pick up an Adriana Locke book because now I need the entire backlist immediately. 😂
Thank you so much to Adriana Locke for the E-ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts. I am so very grateful 💜
This book gave me everything I love in a romance: marriage of convenience, second chances, slow burn tension, pining, yearning, found family, small-town charm, and a hero who is so completely gone for one woman that it hurts.
Hartley has loved Mira forever, and this man would do absolutely anything for her. What I loved most about him is that he never tries to force her hand. He knows she’s spent her life running from hard things, from grief, from loss, and from anything that feels too good to trust. He doesn’t push. He waits. He supports. He shows up. Quietly. Consistently. Patiently. 💜
I adored Mira! She’s so used to leaving before she can get hurt that she doesn’t know how to stay. Watching her slowly work through her grief, learn to trust Hartley, and finally believe she deserves love and happiness was such a beautiful journey.
The chemistry between these two was 🤌🏻🔥. The tension had me kicking my feet, the spice was perfection, and the “we absolutely should not be doing this...but we desperately want to” energy was everything.
This book had me laughing just as much as it had me swooning. The text messages were hilarious, Lolly is an absolute gem, Pigasso the pig 🐷 deserves his own fan club, and every time I read Hartley’s chapters, I swear I heard Teddy Hamilton’s voice in my head 😂
And Adriana Locke...thank you for skipping the miscommunication trope and random third-act breakup. I appreciate you more than you know. 🤍
This is book 4 in the Play Me series, and while it absolutely works as a standalone, these two clearly have so much history that I immediately wanted to go back and start at book 1. I loved spending time with all of these characters, and honestly, I should probably be punished for waiting this long to pick up an Adriana Locke book because now I need the entire backlist immediately. 😂
Thank you so much to Adriana Locke for the E-ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts. I am so very grateful 💜
May 27, 2026
“ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴄᴏᴍᴇs ɪɴ ᴀʟʟ sʜᴀᴘᴇs ᴀɴᴅ sɪᴢᴇs. ʙᴜᴛ ᴡʜᴇɴ ʏᴏᴜ ғɪɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ᴏɴᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ғɪᴛs ʏᴏᴜʀ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛ, ʏᴏᴜ ʜᴏʟᴅ ᴏɴ ᴛᴏ ɪᴛ ғᴏʀ ᴅᴇᴀʀ ʟɪғᴇ. ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴏɴᴄᴇ ɪᴛ's ᴛᴀᴋᴇɴ ᴀᴡᴀʏ, ʏᴏᴜ ᴄᴀɴ'ᴛ ᴀʟᴡᴀʏs ɢᴇᴛ ɪᴛ ʙᴀᴄᴋ.”
Where do I even start with this story? How do I explain how much this book seeped into my heart and soul with the emotional journey Hartley and Mira had to travel to their HEA. Their story was addicting, seductive, entertaining..... beautiful!
“ɪ’ᴅ ʀᴀᴛʜᴇʀ ʀɪsᴋ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴀɪɴ ᴏғ ʟᴏsɪɴɢ ʏᴏᴜ sᴏᴍᴇᴅᴀʏ ᴛʜᴀɴ sᴘᴇɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴇsᴛ ᴏғ ᴍʏ ʟɪғᴇ ᴡᴏɴᴅᴇʀɪɴɢ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪᴛ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ'ᴠᴇ ʙᴇᴇɴ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ʏᴏᴜ. ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ɪ'ᴠᴇ ʙᴇᴇɴ ɪɴ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜ ᴍʏ ᴡʜᴏʟᴇ ʟɪғᴇ. ɢᴇᴛᴛɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ɪs ᴀ ᴡʜᴏʟᴇ ᴅɪғғᴇʀᴇɴᴛ ᴛʜɪɴɢ. ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ's ᴘᴀɪɴ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴄʜᴏɪᴄᴇ ᴛᴏᴏ, ʏᴏᴜ ᴊᴜsᴛ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴅᴇᴄɪᴅᴇ ᴡʜɪᴄʜ ᴘᴀɪɴ ɪs ᴡᴏʀᴛʜ ʟɪᴠɪɴɢ ᴡɪᴛʜ.”
I've been waiting impatiently for Hartley's book after meeting him in the previous books and getting tidbits of information about him and Mira. It all finally comes together in Make Me and we finally see why Mira is the way she is and the pain that caused her to run. Hartley, oh that man is every girl's dream because he loved Mira enough to let her go and hoping one day she would come back to him. The ultimatum that Lolly gives these two was crazy as hell but worth every hilarious, crazy, sexy moment in this story.
“ɪғ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇ sᴏᴍᴇᴏɴᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʏ ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴅᴇsᴇʀᴠᴇ, ʏᴏᴜ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴛᴏ ʜᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇᴍ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴘᴀʀᴛ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜ. ᴀɴᴅ ʏᴇs, ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴍᴇᴀɴs ɢɪᴠɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇᴍ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴏᴡᴇʀ ᴛᴏ ʜᴜʀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ, ᴡʜᴇᴛʜᴇʀ ɪɴᴛᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟʟʏ ᴏʀ ɴᴏᴛ.”
If you love a small town, cowboy romance with a meddling grandma that will have you entranced with all the shenanigans then you must read this book!
Where do I even start with this story? How do I explain how much this book seeped into my heart and soul with the emotional journey Hartley and Mira had to travel to their HEA. Their story was addicting, seductive, entertaining..... beautiful!
“ɪ’ᴅ ʀᴀᴛʜᴇʀ ʀɪsᴋ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴀɪɴ ᴏғ ʟᴏsɪɴɢ ʏᴏᴜ sᴏᴍᴇᴅᴀʏ ᴛʜᴀɴ sᴘᴇɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴇsᴛ ᴏғ ᴍʏ ʟɪғᴇ ᴡᴏɴᴅᴇʀɪɴɢ ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪᴛ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ'ᴠᴇ ʙᴇᴇɴ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ʏᴏᴜ. ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ɪ'ᴠᴇ ʙᴇᴇɴ ɪɴ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ʏᴏᴜ ᴍʏ ᴡʜᴏʟᴇ ʟɪғᴇ. ɢᴇᴛᴛɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ɪs ᴀ ᴡʜᴏʟᴇ ᴅɪғғᴇʀᴇɴᴛ ᴛʜɪɴɢ. ʙᴇᴄᴀᴜsᴇ ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ's ᴘᴀɪɴ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴄʜᴏɪᴄᴇ ᴛᴏᴏ, ʏᴏᴜ ᴊᴜsᴛ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴛᴏ ᴅᴇᴄɪᴅᴇ ᴡʜɪᴄʜ ᴘᴀɪɴ ɪs ᴡᴏʀᴛʜ ʟɪᴠɪɴɢ ᴡɪᴛʜ.”
I've been waiting impatiently for Hartley's book after meeting him in the previous books and getting tidbits of information about him and Mira. It all finally comes together in Make Me and we finally see why Mira is the way she is and the pain that caused her to run. Hartley, oh that man is every girl's dream because he loved Mira enough to let her go and hoping one day she would come back to him. The ultimatum that Lolly gives these two was crazy as hell but worth every hilarious, crazy, sexy moment in this story.
“ɪғ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇ sᴏᴍᴇᴏɴᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʏ ᴛʜᴇʏ ᴅᴇsᴇʀᴠᴇ, ʏᴏᴜ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴛᴏ ʜᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇᴍ ᴇᴠᴇʀʏ ᴘᴀʀᴛ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜ. ᴀɴᴅ ʏᴇs, ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴍᴇᴀɴs ɢɪᴠɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇᴍ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴏᴡᴇʀ ᴛᴏ ʜᴜʀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ, ᴡʜᴇᴛʜᴇʀ ɪɴᴛᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟʟʏ ᴏʀ ɴᴏᴛ.”
If you love a small town, cowboy romance with a meddling grandma that will have you entranced with all the shenanigans then you must read this book!
May 26, 2026
I usually love Adriana Locke’s books, but this one just didn’t work for me. I kept waiting for more tension or emotional development between Hartley and Mira, but everything felt too flat and smooth, which honestly made me bored at times.
I did like both Hartley and Mira individually though. Their personalities were enjoyable, and I think they had potential as a couple. I just wish their relationship had more depth and buildup because nothing really stood out to me.
Sadly, this one was pretty forgettable compared to the author’s other books that I’ve enjoyed a lot more.
Thank you Adriana Locke for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I did like both Hartley and Mira individually though. Their personalities were enjoyable, and I think they had potential as a couple. I just wish their relationship had more depth and buildup because nothing really stood out to me.
Sadly, this one was pretty forgettable compared to the author’s other books that I’ve enjoyed a lot more.
Thank you Adriana Locke for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 21, 2026
The story made me laugh, made me cry and all the adorable things in between. Story starts when Mira in her infinite pet love, rescues “Pigasus Picklesmouth” form "Processing" on a farm.
Driving to deposit him on Hartley Adler farm is an added bonus of seeing her secret crush again.
She left the small town and struggled to make it, but now Grandma Lolly has summoned her back with a proposition.
Marry Hartley to get 50 acres of farm and he gets the rest.
It's win-win for all, especially their yearning hearts. Which soon became entwined so thoroughly, it's hard to separate two from the love tangle.
Side characters group text messages were a hoot
Loved his "my wife" vibe, it was so sexy
It's was warm, swoon, just what the doctor ordered to snuggle up with on a rainy day.
Narration was excellent Sadie Provost & Scott Rose.
“4 stars for the secret tattoo”
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻 TikTok 🌻 StoryGraph 🌻 YouTube 🌻
Driving to deposit him on Hartley Adler farm is an added bonus of seeing her secret crush again.
She left the small town and struggled to make it, but now Grandma Lolly has summoned her back with a proposition.
Marry Hartley to get 50 acres of farm and he gets the rest.
It's win-win for all, especially their yearning hearts. Which soon became entwined so thoroughly, it's hard to separate two from the love tangle.
Side characters group text messages were a hoot
Loved his "my wife" vibe, it was so sexy
It's was warm, swoon, just what the doctor ordered to snuggle up with on a rainy day.
Narration was excellent Sadie Provost & Scott Rose.
“4 stars for the secret tattoo”
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻 TikTok 🌻 StoryGraph 🌻 YouTube 🌻
May 25, 2026
I’ve always been tempted to read Adriana Locke’s books, and I finally took the jump. And gosh, I’m so glad I did!! This book was just so easy from start to finish. It was no fuss, light hearted, fun, and the epitome of a small town book — right down to church on Sunday mornings, lunch after, and sweet tea sipping on the front porch. It was truly everything I could’ve asked for in a small town, cowboy-ish romance and I absolutely loved it!
Hartley has got to be the sweetest, sexiest rancher man there ever was! He is hardworking, gentle, has that natural charm, caring, and is the definition of perfect gentleman. He has been pining after Mira since they very first met at the age of five. It’s always only been her. Mira is your runner when things get hard, don’t want to settle down somewhere because it makes you face your past, kind of gal. She lost her parents when she was younger and ran as fast and she could and hardly came back. Until now — when her grandmother had a proposition for her … and Harley: get married and I’ll give you things you want in return. A deal that is too good to pass up for either one of them. But because these two have had a somewhat past (not truly discussed), and obviously are attracted to each other, this fake marriage becomes real real fast. It is the cutest thing watching them cave. The heart and soul know when you’re with your person, and you can just feel the sexual tension on the pages with these two. They can’t keep their hands off each other and it seriously had me giggling at some points. So stinking cute, these two!
I really enjoyed this book overall! It is the fourth book in this series, and there were times I felt like I should’ve read the other books to know background and situations that the other characters are going through, but overall it didn’t deter me from reading. If anything, it made me want to read the first three books even more now. The friendships these characters have is something special that I hope continue throughout the rest of the books.
This was an ARC read for me, and these are my honest opinions.
Hartley has got to be the sweetest, sexiest rancher man there ever was! He is hardworking, gentle, has that natural charm, caring, and is the definition of perfect gentleman. He has been pining after Mira since they very first met at the age of five. It’s always only been her. Mira is your runner when things get hard, don’t want to settle down somewhere because it makes you face your past, kind of gal. She lost her parents when she was younger and ran as fast and she could and hardly came back. Until now — when her grandmother had a proposition for her … and Harley: get married and I’ll give you things you want in return. A deal that is too good to pass up for either one of them. But because these two have had a somewhat past (not truly discussed), and obviously are attracted to each other, this fake marriage becomes real real fast. It is the cutest thing watching them cave. The heart and soul know when you’re with your person, and you can just feel the sexual tension on the pages with these two. They can’t keep their hands off each other and it seriously had me giggling at some points. So stinking cute, these two!
I really enjoyed this book overall! It is the fourth book in this series, and there were times I felt like I should’ve read the other books to know background and situations that the other characters are going through, but overall it didn’t deter me from reading. If anything, it made me want to read the first three books even more now. The friendships these characters have is something special that I hope continue throughout the rest of the books.
This was an ARC read for me, and these are my honest opinions.
May 22, 2026
4.5 stars
I loved Hartley when he appeared in the previous book, so I am so happy to see him get his happy ever after with Mira St. James. She is his best friend whom he has known since they were kids, and he has loved her almost as long. He has it bad for her. So bad.
Hartley is the swooniest, sweetest man. How could any woman resist his quiet charm?
While he still lives in Sugar Creek, Tennessee, where they grew up, Mira does not. She needed to escape the memories associated with it. This time she is back and Lolly, her grandmother that raised her, has an opportunity for Hartley and Mira. Marriage.
Read this if you like:
Small town romance
Meddling grandma
Second Chance
It's always been you
Marriage of convenience
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I loved Hartley when he appeared in the previous book, so I am so happy to see him get his happy ever after with Mira St. James. She is his best friend whom he has known since they were kids, and he has loved her almost as long. He has it bad for her. So bad.
Hartley is the swooniest, sweetest man. How could any woman resist his quiet charm?
While he still lives in Sugar Creek, Tennessee, where they grew up, Mira does not. She needed to escape the memories associated with it. This time she is back and Lolly, her grandmother that raised her, has an opportunity for Hartley and Mira. Marriage.
Read this if you like:
Small town romance
Meddling grandma
Second Chance
It's always been you
Marriage of convenience
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 29, 2026
Marriage of convenience AND second chance?! This is basically my version of heaven. Oh Hartley. I absolutely adore you. Talk about a walking green flag!! He's been waiting on Mira for a long time. But Mira runs and doesn't really plan to put down roots, especially in her hometown. But when grandma forces her hand a little bit, things start to shift. I love me a meddling grandma. She knew what she had to do to make Hartley & Mira come to their senses. It's like everyone knew they were going to end up together except for themselves. It was something Hartley always hoped for but didn't think would actually come true. They were so sweet together. I really enjoyed them finally get their HEA with each other.
Thank you Adriana Locke for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you Adriana Locke for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
May 23, 2026
Well hot damn!
This is both equal parts wholesome as a litter of puppies and steamy as a devil in church.
Hartley, sweet baby Jesus this man is something else. He’s the sweetest most caring man I’ve ever read but also dirty as shit, the minute things heat up it’s like he transforms into an entirely different person. That man and a hay bale is all I’m saying! 🥵
Mira is a lucky woman, because, bloody hell she made him wait far too long!
Thank you so much to HambrightPR and Adriana Locke for the ARC!
🌶️🌶️.5
❤️❤️❤️
This is both equal parts wholesome as a litter of puppies and steamy as a devil in church.
Hartley, sweet baby Jesus this man is something else. He’s the sweetest most caring man I’ve ever read but also dirty as shit, the minute things heat up it’s like he transforms into an entirely different person. That man and a hay bale is all I’m saying! 🥵
Mira is a lucky woman, because, bloody hell she made him wait far too long!
Thank you so much to HambrightPR and Adriana Locke for the ARC!
🌶️🌶️.5
❤️❤️❤️
May 25, 2026
El YEARNING que se cargó este hombre todo el libro?!!!😭❤️🔥oh my god Hartley se convirtió en mi favorito de los cuatro. Este hombre estaba dispuesto a casarse con ella solo porque así podría aunque sea, ser capaz de verla más seguido!! Ni hablemos que la estuvo esperando todo este tiempo con la esperanza de que algún día ella dejará de correr y volviera a él 🥹
“No importa como esto termine. Me casaré con la única mujer que he amado. Me casaré con Mira.”❤️🩹
————-
Thank you so much Hambright PR & Adriana Locke for the ARC💌✨
Tropes:
-second chance
-matrimonio por conveniencia
-small town
-una cama
-proximidad formada
-found family
Mira💕:
Una mujer que nunca a querido asentarse y siempre que puede se muda a un lugar diferente. Eso a pasar que ama estar con su familia, a Hartley y al pueblo. Le huye a algo y teme encariñarse con las personas y luego se vayan, a pesar de que es ella la que huye siempre 😭
Hartley🤠:
Siempre ocupado con el rancho que heredó de sus padres, muere por casarse y tener hijos pero no deja que las mujeres se acerquen lo suficiente para ser candidatas porque en el fondo sabe que ese lugar solo es para Mira y aunque hayan pasado años la sigue esperando 🥹
Historia 📖:
Luego de que Mira vuelva al pueblo por unos días, su abuela decide que es hora que ella regrese y se asiente, así que la obliga (ligeramente) a casarse con Hartley para que pueda heredar sus tierras. La condición es que tiene que ser un matrimonio verdadero😳 y aunque ella está molesta por este hecho, Hartley está que no se cabe en la felicidad de que por fin y cita sus palabras: “se va a casar con la mujer de sus sueños”😭✨
Pensamientos 💭 :
Estaba todo el libro temiendo que pasara esa cosa mala que siempre pasa y se separarán, no pasó, y eso jodidamente agradecida por eso 🥹 ellos ya habían perdido el suficiente tiempo juntos para que al final se volvieran a separar así que fue un alivio que permanecieron juntos hasta el final 💌. El libro estuvo muy bello y el único hecho que podría haber sentido insuficiente fue que sentí que faltó que nos contaran más de su relación en el pasado, se nos dice que ellos se ven de vez en cuando y terminan durmiendo juntos; así que sentí que me estaba perdiendo de algo. Solo eso, todo lo demás me encantó y Hartley sentí robo el show con ese yearning que traía por Mira ❤️🩹
English:
THE YEARNING this man carried throughout the entire book?!!! 😭❤️🔥 Oh my god, Hartley became my favorite out of the four. This man was willing to marry her just so he could at least see her more often!! And don’t even get me started on how he waited for her all this time, hoping that one day she’d stop running and come back to him 🥹
“No matter how this ends, I’ll be marrying the only woman I’ve ever loved. I’ll be marrying Mira.” ❤️🩹
———
Thank you so much Hambright PR & Adriana Locke for the ARC 💌✨
Tropes:
-second chance
-marriage of convenience
-small town
-one bed
-forced proximity
-found family
Mira💕:
A woman who has never wanted to settle down and constantly moves from place to place whenever she can. Even though she loves being with her family, Hartley, and the town, she’s running from something and is terrified of getting attached to people only for them to leave her… even though she’s always the one leaving 😭
Hartley🤠:
Always busy running the ranch he inherited from his parents, he dreams of getting married and having children, but he never lets women get close enough to become real candidates because deep down he knows that spot belongs only to Mira. And even after all these years, he’s still waiting for her 🥹
Story 📖:
After Mira returns to town for a few days, her grandmother decides it’s finally time for her to come back and settle down, so she (slightly) forces her to marry Hartley in order to inherit her land. The catch? It has to be a real marriage 😳 And while Mira is upset about the whole situation, Hartley is absolutely ecstatic because, in his own words, he’s finally “getting to marry the woman of his dreams” 😭✨
Thoughts 💭:
The entire book I was terrified that that bad thing that always happens in romances would happen and they’d break up… but it never did, and I’m so incredibly grateful for that 🥹 They had already lost enough time together, so seeing them stay together until the very end was such a relief 💌
The book was beautiful, and the only thing that felt slightly lacking to me was that I wanted more details about their past relationship. We’re told that they would occasionally see each other and end up sleeping together, so I felt like I was missing part of their story. Other than that, I loved everything, and Hartley absolutely stole the show with all the yearning he carried for Mira❤️🩹
“No importa como esto termine. Me casaré con la única mujer que he amado. Me casaré con Mira.”❤️🩹
————-
Thank you so much Hambright PR & Adriana Locke for the ARC💌✨
Tropes:
-second chance
-matrimonio por conveniencia
-small town
-una cama
-proximidad formada
-found family
Mira💕:
Una mujer que nunca a querido asentarse y siempre que puede se muda a un lugar diferente. Eso a pasar que ama estar con su familia, a Hartley y al pueblo. Le huye a algo y teme encariñarse con las personas y luego se vayan, a pesar de que es ella la que huye siempre 😭
Hartley🤠:
Siempre ocupado con el rancho que heredó de sus padres, muere por casarse y tener hijos pero no deja que las mujeres se acerquen lo suficiente para ser candidatas porque en el fondo sabe que ese lugar solo es para Mira y aunque hayan pasado años la sigue esperando 🥹
Historia 📖:
Luego de que Mira vuelva al pueblo por unos días, su abuela decide que es hora que ella regrese y se asiente, así que la obliga (ligeramente) a casarse con Hartley para que pueda heredar sus tierras. La condición es que tiene que ser un matrimonio verdadero😳 y aunque ella está molesta por este hecho, Hartley está que no se cabe en la felicidad de que por fin y cita sus palabras: “se va a casar con la mujer de sus sueños”😭✨
Pensamientos 💭 :
Estaba todo el libro temiendo que pasara esa cosa mala que siempre pasa y se separarán, no pasó, y eso jodidamente agradecida por eso 🥹 ellos ya habían perdido el suficiente tiempo juntos para que al final se volvieran a separar así que fue un alivio que permanecieron juntos hasta el final 💌. El libro estuvo muy bello y el único hecho que podría haber sentido insuficiente fue que sentí que faltó que nos contaran más de su relación en el pasado, se nos dice que ellos se ven de vez en cuando y terminan durmiendo juntos; así que sentí que me estaba perdiendo de algo. Solo eso, todo lo demás me encantó y Hartley sentí robo el show con ese yearning que traía por Mira ❤️🩹
English:
THE YEARNING this man carried throughout the entire book?!!! 😭❤️🔥 Oh my god, Hartley became my favorite out of the four. This man was willing to marry her just so he could at least see her more often!! And don’t even get me started on how he waited for her all this time, hoping that one day she’d stop running and come back to him 🥹
“No matter how this ends, I’ll be marrying the only woman I’ve ever loved. I’ll be marrying Mira.” ❤️🩹
———
Thank you so much Hambright PR & Adriana Locke for the ARC 💌✨
Tropes:
-second chance
-marriage of convenience
-small town
-one bed
-forced proximity
-found family
Mira💕:
A woman who has never wanted to settle down and constantly moves from place to place whenever she can. Even though she loves being with her family, Hartley, and the town, she’s running from something and is terrified of getting attached to people only for them to leave her… even though she’s always the one leaving 😭
Hartley🤠:
Always busy running the ranch he inherited from his parents, he dreams of getting married and having children, but he never lets women get close enough to become real candidates because deep down he knows that spot belongs only to Mira. And even after all these years, he’s still waiting for her 🥹
Story 📖:
After Mira returns to town for a few days, her grandmother decides it’s finally time for her to come back and settle down, so she (slightly) forces her to marry Hartley in order to inherit her land. The catch? It has to be a real marriage 😳 And while Mira is upset about the whole situation, Hartley is absolutely ecstatic because, in his own words, he’s finally “getting to marry the woman of his dreams” 😭✨
Thoughts 💭:
The entire book I was terrified that that bad thing that always happens in romances would happen and they’d break up… but it never did, and I’m so incredibly grateful for that 🥹 They had already lost enough time together, so seeing them stay together until the very end was such a relief 💌
The book was beautiful, and the only thing that felt slightly lacking to me was that I wanted more details about their past relationship. We’re told that they would occasionally see each other and end up sleeping together, so I felt like I was missing part of their story. Other than that, I loved everything, and Hartley absolutely stole the show with all the yearning he carried for Mira❤️🩹
June 4, 2026
Second-chance, friends to lovers to friends to lovers 😜, recovering from shared trauma (both have lost parents), marriage of convenience, forced proximity, one-bed situation, small town romance. (Phew! Did I cover 'em all!?).
Mira is running away from her past after her parents died, never settling down in one place, never getting close enough to anyone to risk experiencing the feelings of loss she once felt. She has run away from her small town where her sister, Markie, and her grandmother who raised them, Lolly, both still live. The love of her life and long-time friend, Hartley, also lives there. Every time she comes into town to visit, she seems to reconnect with him, but she strives to keep her emotional distance.
Hartley has harbored long-time feelings for Mira, and no one else can ever compare. He finds himself just waiting and holding out for her in the hopes she'll one day change her mind and be open to him. He is tied to his small town, taking over his ranch after his parents died, and is hoping to one day expand to include more land owned by Mira's family. Enter Lolly - Mira's meddling grandmother who will only sign over her land to Hartley, and her house over to Mira, once they've been married for 1 year. Why--you ask? Well because Lolly knows that Mira has been running, the 2 are destined to be together, and she needs to force her hand to stick around for awhile to remember all the life her small town has to offer.
This story is a beautiful journey of healing, trust, and a push-and-pull dance between two people with a magnetic connection. You find yourself rooting for both Hartley and Mira throughout the book, and also love for the various supporting characters including Markie, Lolly, and the group of new girlfriends also pulling at Mira's heartstrings to stay put for once. Add in a side-pet-character like Pigasso the Pig and I'm hooked! 🐷 A great feel-good read filled with hope.
Also I've said it before and I'll say it again - any book that includes a quirky elder has my heart. So Lolly for the win!
Thanks to Hambright PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Book Club Qs:
1) Lolly texts Mira "ATD. BFF." and this translated to "at the doctor, best friend fell," what do you think "GTG. DICI" means when she is leaving the chat?
2) Why do you think Mira and Markie have such contrasting experiences in handling the death of their parents?
3) What do you think of Lolly's meddling ways to help her granddaughters?
4) How did you feel about the push-pull nature of Mira and Hartley's relationship?
5) If you could have one farm animal as a pet, what would it be and why?
Mira is running away from her past after her parents died, never settling down in one place, never getting close enough to anyone to risk experiencing the feelings of loss she once felt. She has run away from her small town where her sister, Markie, and her grandmother who raised them, Lolly, both still live. The love of her life and long-time friend, Hartley, also lives there. Every time she comes into town to visit, she seems to reconnect with him, but she strives to keep her emotional distance.
Hartley has harbored long-time feelings for Mira, and no one else can ever compare. He finds himself just waiting and holding out for her in the hopes she'll one day change her mind and be open to him. He is tied to his small town, taking over his ranch after his parents died, and is hoping to one day expand to include more land owned by Mira's family. Enter Lolly - Mira's meddling grandmother who will only sign over her land to Hartley, and her house over to Mira, once they've been married for 1 year. Why--you ask? Well because Lolly knows that Mira has been running, the 2 are destined to be together, and she needs to force her hand to stick around for awhile to remember all the life her small town has to offer.
This story is a beautiful journey of healing, trust, and a push-and-pull dance between two people with a magnetic connection. You find yourself rooting for both Hartley and Mira throughout the book, and also love for the various supporting characters including Markie, Lolly, and the group of new girlfriends also pulling at Mira's heartstrings to stay put for once. Add in a side-pet-character like Pigasso the Pig and I'm hooked! 🐷 A great feel-good read filled with hope.
Also I've said it before and I'll say it again - any book that includes a quirky elder has my heart. So Lolly for the win!
Thanks to Hambright PR for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Book Club Qs:
1) Lolly texts Mira "ATD. BFF." and this translated to "at the doctor, best friend fell," what do you think "GTG. DICI" means when she is leaving the chat?
2) Why do you think Mira and Markie have such contrasting experiences in handling the death of their parents?
3) What do you think of Lolly's meddling ways to help her granddaughters?
4) How did you feel about the push-pull nature of Mira and Hartley's relationship?
5) If you could have one farm animal as a pet, what would it be and why?
September 24, 2026
4 stars
The fourth standalone in the Play Me series, this is a sweetly romantic second-chance, fake marriage-of-convenience story with emotion, very little angst, and a golden retriever hero who stole my heart. It’s such a gorgeous read.
Mira and Hartley were childhood sweethearts who are now just friends with the occasional benefits when Mira comes back to their small home-town to visit family. She lives an itinerant life, ready to pack up and move whenever she feels like it, but on her latest visit home, her grandmother tells her that she wants to leave her the farmhouse where she grew up – but only on the condition that she marry the boy next door, Hartley. It also means that Hartley will get to reclaim land that once belonged to his family, and with the situation being a win-win for both of them, they agree to marry and to live together as husband and wife for a year, and make it look real.
It’s kind of ridiculous, but it’s such a fun set-up, and I was fully on board and so excited to see where the story would go, because Hartley has loved Mira his whole life. He’s tried to move on but realises that it’s useless, so he seizes the chance to marry the only woman he’s ever wanted, even if it’s not the way he wanted it. It’s a year with Mira that he never expected to have, and he’s determined to make the most of it.
It’s not long before the chemistry between these two explodes, and holy God, they are so hot together! But while Hartley is all in, Mira is determined to keep her walls up. She’s carrying a lot of grief from her past and has healing to do if she’s ever going to risk her heart. And Hartley is patient through it all, loving and supporting her while she figures it out. She can’t help but fall for him and his huge heart. And who could blame her?
The characters from previous books in the series are present and all up in Mira and Hartley’s lives, and I enjoyed seeing the group together. But you can also easily read this book as a standalone.
This is a beautifully sweet romance with no third-act breakup and a gorgeously happy ending, and I finished this one with a big smile on my face.
4 stars.
I listened to this as an audiobook narrated by Sadie Provost and Scott Rose, and they do a great job. This was a really enjoyable and easy book to listen to.
The fourth standalone in the Play Me series, this is a sweetly romantic second-chance, fake marriage-of-convenience story with emotion, very little angst, and a golden retriever hero who stole my heart. It’s such a gorgeous read.
Mira and Hartley were childhood sweethearts who are now just friends with the occasional benefits when Mira comes back to their small home-town to visit family. She lives an itinerant life, ready to pack up and move whenever she feels like it, but on her latest visit home, her grandmother tells her that she wants to leave her the farmhouse where she grew up – but only on the condition that she marry the boy next door, Hartley. It also means that Hartley will get to reclaim land that once belonged to his family, and with the situation being a win-win for both of them, they agree to marry and to live together as husband and wife for a year, and make it look real.
It’s kind of ridiculous, but it’s such a fun set-up, and I was fully on board and so excited to see where the story would go, because Hartley has loved Mira his whole life. He’s tried to move on but realises that it’s useless, so he seizes the chance to marry the only woman he’s ever wanted, even if it’s not the way he wanted it. It’s a year with Mira that he never expected to have, and he’s determined to make the most of it.
It’s not long before the chemistry between these two explodes, and holy God, they are so hot together! But while Hartley is all in, Mira is determined to keep her walls up. She’s carrying a lot of grief from her past and has healing to do if she’s ever going to risk her heart. And Hartley is patient through it all, loving and supporting her while she figures it out. She can’t help but fall for him and his huge heart. And who could blame her?
“I’ve waited my whole life to hear you say you love me again. I started to believe that it would never happen.”
“What would you have done if it didn’t?”
“I’d have loved you anyway.”
The characters from previous books in the series are present and all up in Mira and Hartley’s lives, and I enjoyed seeing the group together. But you can also easily read this book as a standalone.
This is a beautifully sweet romance with no third-act breakup and a gorgeously happy ending, and I finished this one with a big smile on my face.
4 stars.
I listened to this as an audiobook narrated by Sadie Provost and Scott Rose, and they do a great job. This was a really enjoyable and easy book to listen to.
May 25, 2026
Hartley Adler finally gets the girl.
There was a tiny worry that I wasn’t going to like Mira, simply because she messed with Hartley’s heart. But I should have known that Adrianna Locke would have made a character worthy of Hartley’s devotion.
Mira’s a bit of a mess and she knows it. She’s been out running a life in Sugar Creek and her heart for a long time and all she’s managed to achieve is hurting a lot of people who love her.
Lolly’s devious plan was just what these two needed and she was a fantastic side character. Her text messages with her acronyms were always funny and it was a laugh having the characters decipher them.
I was already a huge Hartley fan from Gray’s book, then he helped Brooks get his act together and it was about time he got the happy ever after they had.
This is a beautiful second chance romance full of emotions and Hartley and Mira have such a similar back story, but both dealt with their hurt very differently. While Hartley planted roots and planned to grow, Mira wanted to run and form no attachments that could hurt her again. If it wasn’t for Lolly’s medalling, they probably would have spent a whole lot longer being miserable.
Hartley has got to be one of the best men. He’s so patient and understanding with Mira and all her emotional baggage. He’s careful with her in so many ways and loves her with the possibility of never being loved the same back. I mean, could there be any more green flags for this man?
Mira wasn’t a bad person, and she never set out to hurt Hartley or herself, but in trying to cause herself less pain and suffering all she did was punish them both and others who loved her.
No third act break up which I’m happy about. I was worried that something was going to happen to Hartley that would send Mira running but Adrianna Locke left it all about Mira’s self-discovery of her grief and pain. It was a really beautiful part of the story.
Seeing Hartley so happy and content and all the friends coming together in Sugar Creek was brilliant.
I’m glad Markie (Mira’s sister) is getting a story too, I think she deserves a happy ending now as well.
Happy Reading.
There was a tiny worry that I wasn’t going to like Mira, simply because she messed with Hartley’s heart. But I should have known that Adrianna Locke would have made a character worthy of Hartley’s devotion.
Mira’s a bit of a mess and she knows it. She’s been out running a life in Sugar Creek and her heart for a long time and all she’s managed to achieve is hurting a lot of people who love her.
Lolly’s devious plan was just what these two needed and she was a fantastic side character. Her text messages with her acronyms were always funny and it was a laugh having the characters decipher them.
I was already a huge Hartley fan from Gray’s book, then he helped Brooks get his act together and it was about time he got the happy ever after they had.
This is a beautiful second chance romance full of emotions and Hartley and Mira have such a similar back story, but both dealt with their hurt very differently. While Hartley planted roots and planned to grow, Mira wanted to run and form no attachments that could hurt her again. If it wasn’t for Lolly’s medalling, they probably would have spent a whole lot longer being miserable.
Hartley has got to be one of the best men. He’s so patient and understanding with Mira and all her emotional baggage. He’s careful with her in so many ways and loves her with the possibility of never being loved the same back. I mean, could there be any more green flags for this man?
Mira wasn’t a bad person, and she never set out to hurt Hartley or herself, but in trying to cause herself less pain and suffering all she did was punish them both and others who loved her.
No third act break up which I’m happy about. I was worried that something was going to happen to Hartley that would send Mira running but Adrianna Locke left it all about Mira’s self-discovery of her grief and pain. It was a really beautiful part of the story.
Seeing Hartley so happy and content and all the friends coming together in Sugar Creek was brilliant.
I’m glad Markie (Mira’s sister) is getting a story too, I think she deserves a happy ending now as well.
Happy Reading.
May 30, 2026
#Review: *Make Me* - Adriana Locke - ARC [18+]
4.8/5✨
3/5🌶️
Mira was a free soul, who felt a bit trapped when her own grandmother came with a proposition which might turn her world upside-down. She wanted for Mira to get married to Hartley, one man for whom Mira always had a soft spot in her heart, in order to inherit the farmhouse she has grown up in. Will Mira and Hartley accept these conditions and get married or will she get scared about the thought of being locked down in one single place and flee from that small town?
It was super fun to read this story because of Mira's grandma who was such a star character! She most definitely knew best and had a feeling about Mira and Hartley, that's why she pushed them together. I liked to see how Mira succeeded in winning her inner battles, because it was so hard for her to be in that place, which made her remember about some hurtful things, and for staying for a longer time in the small town, thing which was truly unusual for her. Hartley was such a goner for this girl, being totally obsessed with her and not knowing what to do to have her by his side. I loved all that sweetness that resulted when these two were together, and also all that tension and sexy moments they shared. Their marriage arrangement was unexpected but there was for sure something there and I loved discovering it along the way with Mira and Hartley.
This was such a nice read, loving to see how pieces of an unfinished puzzle were being put back together, in order to get a wonderful result. Mira and Hartley were delicious together, even if what they were facing wasn't that easy for them, because of the fears they had in their hearts. I cannot wait for the next book from this series, especially because those little hints from the end of this story. Thank you Adriana for deciding to give us another book in this amazing series🥰🤗.
Thank you so much to Adriana and her lovely team for accepting me for this e-ARC. I had an incredible time reading this book and I'm eager for the next book from this series 😍.
✨Tropes
▫️Returning To Hometown
▫️Marriage Of Convenience
▫️Second Chance
▫️Small Town
▫️He Falls First & Harder
▫️Meddling Family
4.8/5✨
3/5🌶️
Mira was a free soul, who felt a bit trapped when her own grandmother came with a proposition which might turn her world upside-down. She wanted for Mira to get married to Hartley, one man for whom Mira always had a soft spot in her heart, in order to inherit the farmhouse she has grown up in. Will Mira and Hartley accept these conditions and get married or will she get scared about the thought of being locked down in one single place and flee from that small town?
It was super fun to read this story because of Mira's grandma who was such a star character! She most definitely knew best and had a feeling about Mira and Hartley, that's why she pushed them together. I liked to see how Mira succeeded in winning her inner battles, because it was so hard for her to be in that place, which made her remember about some hurtful things, and for staying for a longer time in the small town, thing which was truly unusual for her. Hartley was such a goner for this girl, being totally obsessed with her and not knowing what to do to have her by his side. I loved all that sweetness that resulted when these two were together, and also all that tension and sexy moments they shared. Their marriage arrangement was unexpected but there was for sure something there and I loved discovering it along the way with Mira and Hartley.
This was such a nice read, loving to see how pieces of an unfinished puzzle were being put back together, in order to get a wonderful result. Mira and Hartley were delicious together, even if what they were facing wasn't that easy for them, because of the fears they had in their hearts. I cannot wait for the next book from this series, especially because those little hints from the end of this story. Thank you Adriana for deciding to give us another book in this amazing series🥰🤗.
Thank you so much to Adriana and her lovely team for accepting me for this e-ARC. I had an incredible time reading this book and I'm eager for the next book from this series 😍.
✨Tropes
▫️Returning To Hometown
▫️Marriage Of Convenience
▫️Second Chance
▫️Small Town
▫️He Falls First & Harder
▫️Meddling Family
May 22, 2026
okay but this book actually made me believe in soulmates a little 😭🤍
because tell me why Mira got drunk… bought a piglet because she thought it looked sad… and then immediately called Hartley for help 😭
LIKE HELLO???
that alone already told me everything i needed to know about their relationship.
because to Mira, Hartley was always the person she could run to when life got too heavy.
and to Hartley?
Mira was basically the love of his entire life 🥺
and honestly this story hurt in the softest way because both of them were grieving the same kind of loss but handled it completely differently.
Hartley stayed.
built a life. worked nonstop at the ranch. rooted himself in the place that held all the memories.
while Mira ran.
not because she didn’t love home… but because staying meant facing everything she lost there.
and somehow that made me love them even more because neither of them were wrong 😭
BUT WAIT because Grandma Lolly absolutely stole the show for me 😭
this woman looked at two stubborn people clearly in love and said:
“fine. if y’all won’t figure it out yourselves, i WILL.”
and then creates this whole marriage arrangement where they have to get married and live together for a YEAR to inherit the land and money???
grandma really said:
✨ forced proximity
✨ marriage of convenience
✨ figure your feelings out already
ICONIC 😭
and the more time Mira and Hartley spend together???
the banter.
the teasing.
the comfort they have with each other.
it literally already feels like they’ve been married forever 🫠
and knowing Hartley loved her quietly all those years?? even leaving rooms when people mentioned her because it hurt too much???
yeah no. i cried 😭
AND DON’T EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THE TATTOO.
that chapter actually brought me to my knees because why was that one of the sweetest things i’ve ever read???
“I’ve waited my whole life to hear you say you love me. I started to believe that it would never happen.”
“What would you have done if it didn’t?”
“I’d have loved you anyway.”
…
EXCUSE ME WHILE I GO CRY FOREVER 😭🤍
this book felt like:
🤍 small town comfort
🤍 childhood love that never faded
🤍 marriage of convenience chaos
🤍 soft yearning and second chances
🤍 “i was always going to choose you” energy
and honestly?? i’m still not over them.
because tell me why Mira got drunk… bought a piglet because she thought it looked sad… and then immediately called Hartley for help 😭
LIKE HELLO???
that alone already told me everything i needed to know about their relationship.
because to Mira, Hartley was always the person she could run to when life got too heavy.
and to Hartley?
Mira was basically the love of his entire life 🥺
and honestly this story hurt in the softest way because both of them were grieving the same kind of loss but handled it completely differently.
Hartley stayed.
built a life. worked nonstop at the ranch. rooted himself in the place that held all the memories.
while Mira ran.
not because she didn’t love home… but because staying meant facing everything she lost there.
and somehow that made me love them even more because neither of them were wrong 😭
BUT WAIT because Grandma Lolly absolutely stole the show for me 😭
this woman looked at two stubborn people clearly in love and said:
“fine. if y’all won’t figure it out yourselves, i WILL.”
and then creates this whole marriage arrangement where they have to get married and live together for a YEAR to inherit the land and money???
grandma really said:
✨ forced proximity
✨ marriage of convenience
✨ figure your feelings out already
ICONIC 😭
and the more time Mira and Hartley spend together???
the banter.
the teasing.
the comfort they have with each other.
it literally already feels like they’ve been married forever 🫠
and knowing Hartley loved her quietly all those years?? even leaving rooms when people mentioned her because it hurt too much???
yeah no. i cried 😭
AND DON’T EVEN GET ME STARTED ON THE TATTOO.
that chapter actually brought me to my knees because why was that one of the sweetest things i’ve ever read???
“I’ve waited my whole life to hear you say you love me. I started to believe that it would never happen.”
“What would you have done if it didn’t?”
“I’d have loved you anyway.”
…
EXCUSE ME WHILE I GO CRY FOREVER 😭🤍
this book felt like:
🤍 small town comfort
🤍 childhood love that never faded
🤍 marriage of convenience chaos
🤍 soft yearning and second chances
🤍 “i was always going to choose you” energy
and honestly?? i’m still not over them.
August 26, 2026
Actual rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Make Me is definitely my favorite book from the series. I absolutely enjoyed every minute. It was sweet, deeply emotional, and had my favorite trope, marriage of convenience ❤️ It was a truly beautiful read.
The depth in Mira's character called out to me. She had experienced the loss of her parents, and her way of grieving was slightly different than other people's. She didn't discuss how that loss affected her. She never chose to settle somewhere for too long. She even chose to isolate herself from the outside world, working online and passing on the opportunity of making acquaintances and close friends.
Mira feared getting close to people, only for them to leave at the end. That showed just how deep her grief ran. What she didn't know, though, was that by doing so, she was making herself lonelier, and more unhappy than ever. She realized what her life was missing after she agreed to marry Hartley. She found a home in the man she always loved, in the people surrounding him, and in her grandmother and sister ❤️
Hartley has my heart ❤️ He yearned for a woman who never seemed willing to stay in his orbit. The kind of love that makes your heart ache to experience. As much as he loved Mira, he could never bring himself to ask her to stay. Neither of them believed their feelings were reciprocated, but everyone around them could see it. He'd lost both of his parents as well, and he didn't dare make the first step toward Mira, so he was just as emotionally unfulfilled as she was. It was clear that Hartley was trying to minimize his interactions with her, but he could never say no to her. His reaction after hearing her confession was absolutely priceless ❤️
There are lot of things I could say about this book, but I think the most important message it conveys is that you need to take a leap of faith. You never know where destiny might lead you, or what could actually make you happy.
Make Me is definitely my favorite book from the series. I absolutely enjoyed every minute. It was sweet, deeply emotional, and had my favorite trope, marriage of convenience ❤️ It was a truly beautiful read.
The depth in Mira's character called out to me. She had experienced the loss of her parents, and her way of grieving was slightly different than other people's. She didn't discuss how that loss affected her. She never chose to settle somewhere for too long. She even chose to isolate herself from the outside world, working online and passing on the opportunity of making acquaintances and close friends.
Mira feared getting close to people, only for them to leave at the end. That showed just how deep her grief ran. What she didn't know, though, was that by doing so, she was making herself lonelier, and more unhappy than ever. She realized what her life was missing after she agreed to marry Hartley. She found a home in the man she always loved, in the people surrounding him, and in her grandmother and sister ❤️
Hartley has my heart ❤️ He yearned for a woman who never seemed willing to stay in his orbit. The kind of love that makes your heart ache to experience. As much as he loved Mira, he could never bring himself to ask her to stay. Neither of them believed their feelings were reciprocated, but everyone around them could see it. He'd lost both of his parents as well, and he didn't dare make the first step toward Mira, so he was just as emotionally unfulfilled as she was. It was clear that Hartley was trying to minimize his interactions with her, but he could never say no to her. His reaction after hearing her confession was absolutely priceless ❤️
There are lot of things I could say about this book, but I think the most important message it conveys is that you need to take a leap of faith. You never know where destiny might lead you, or what could actually make you happy.
June 2, 2026
Hartley is the sweetest yummiest character. He has been in every book so far, but now we really get to know him. Talk about falling hard. 🫠😍 He is literally the ideal book man. Thoughtful, hard working, funny, sweet, loyal, down bad, hot, dirty mouthed, and has only ever loved one woman....even when she didn't love him.
Mira is a character that grief has shaped. Do I like the choices she made? No. Do I understand it? 1000% Once she started opening up and healing, I adored her. I mean she saved Pigasso!
Can I have my own Lolly? And maybe even Brooks? Lolly is the most amazing, unhinged grandma ever. Brooks is like the sweetest, craziest, best friend to have. Not to mention the girl gang from the previous books plus Markie.
🫶🏽 Lines:
I had to pry a wrench out of his damn hands and summon the Holy Spirit so that I didn't knock him in the head with it.
It'd be heaven if it wasn't its own version of hell.
...Dad always said that just because you have a di•• doesn't mean you have to be one. If a woman cooks for you, your a•• better be in the kitchen cleaning it up.
...so she's a little overstimulated tonight. Exhausterwhelmulated, if you will. You'll have to excuse her weirdness.
Men suck—although they never suck the things I'd appreciate.
{ROFLACGU} Apparently, rolling on the floor laughing and can't get up is what you say when you have hip pain in the later-in-life world.
It's as if it hurts him too much not having you there that he can't sit still.
I'd rather risk the pain of losing you someday than spend the rest of my life wondering what it would've been like to love you...Because I've been in love with you my whole life. Getting to love you is a whole different thing.
Mira is a character that grief has shaped. Do I like the choices she made? No. Do I understand it? 1000% Once she started opening up and healing, I adored her. I mean she saved Pigasso!
Can I have my own Lolly? And maybe even Brooks? Lolly is the most amazing, unhinged grandma ever. Brooks is like the sweetest, craziest, best friend to have. Not to mention the girl gang from the previous books plus Markie.
🫶🏽 Lines:
I had to pry a wrench out of his damn hands and summon the Holy Spirit so that I didn't knock him in the head with it.
It'd be heaven if it wasn't its own version of hell.
...Dad always said that just because you have a di•• doesn't mean you have to be one. If a woman cooks for you, your a•• better be in the kitchen cleaning it up.
...so she's a little overstimulated tonight. Exhausterwhelmulated, if you will. You'll have to excuse her weirdness.
Men suck—although they never suck the things I'd appreciate.
{ROFLACGU} Apparently, rolling on the floor laughing and can't get up is what you say when you have hip pain in the later-in-life world.
It's as if it hurts him too much not having you there that he can't sit still.
I'd rather risk the pain of losing you someday than spend the rest of my life wondering what it would've been like to love you...Because I've been in love with you my whole life. Getting to love you is a whole different thing.
July 24, 2026
Huge thank you to Adriana Locke and her team for this ALC in exchange for my honest review!
Adriana wrote another one that captivated me from page one! Make Me was a heartfelt and emotional story! This grabbed my attention immediately and I could not put this down. Not to mention this had laugh out loud moments!.. and a few tender moments that had me needing a tissue.
Mira is kind of chaotic and I love her. She is a raw, messy and real character. I feel like Adriana did a great job writing a lot of emotional baggage and growth in Mira. She storyline and healing genuinely felt cathartic! I will say, I did not exactly fully understand her issue with being with Hartley for more of the book than I care to admit.. it just did not feel cohesive for the storyline to me. Does that make sense? Regardless, I really enjoyed how Adriana wrote her!
Hartley absolutely stole my heart. He is a MMC who knows what he wants (And it's Mira for however long he can have her) and he will appreciate every second he can get (Even if it is just for a year). He is such a genuine character with a heart of gold. The way he was down bad for Mira was absolutely top tier. Not to mention he was always shirtless... I found that hot but also kind of comical.
Mira and Hartley were so special together. Their connection and history was so well written. The way they took care of each other was made my heart melt. They had so many tender and heartfelt moments that were perfect examples of why I love to read romance novels. Adriana did so well writing these two!
Would I recommend this one? Yes! Would I reread? Yeah! Would I carry on with the series? 100%. Would I like a trophy? Yep!
I am literally foaming at the mouth for Beg Me.. I loved the little Easter eggs Adriana left throughout Make Me for Beg Me! The second they mentioned Mira's brother renting out the house.. I was like "OOP that has to be rented by our next MMC" and I have been feral ever since.
Adriana wrote another one that captivated me from page one! Make Me was a heartfelt and emotional story! This grabbed my attention immediately and I could not put this down. Not to mention this had laugh out loud moments!.. and a few tender moments that had me needing a tissue.
Mira is kind of chaotic and I love her. She is a raw, messy and real character. I feel like Adriana did a great job writing a lot of emotional baggage and growth in Mira. She storyline and healing genuinely felt cathartic! I will say, I did not exactly fully understand her issue with being with Hartley for more of the book than I care to admit.. it just did not feel cohesive for the storyline to me. Does that make sense? Regardless, I really enjoyed how Adriana wrote her!
Hartley absolutely stole my heart. He is a MMC who knows what he wants (And it's Mira for however long he can have her) and he will appreciate every second he can get (Even if it is just for a year). He is such a genuine character with a heart of gold. The way he was down bad for Mira was absolutely top tier. Not to mention he was always shirtless... I found that hot but also kind of comical.
Mira and Hartley were so special together. Their connection and history was so well written. The way they took care of each other was made my heart melt. They had so many tender and heartfelt moments that were perfect examples of why I love to read romance novels. Adriana did so well writing these two!
Would I recommend this one? Yes! Would I reread? Yeah! Would I carry on with the series? 100%. Would I like a trophy? Yep!
I am literally foaming at the mouth for Beg Me.. I loved the little Easter eggs Adriana left throughout Make Me for Beg Me! The second they mentioned Mira's brother renting out the house.. I was like "OOP that has to be rented by our next MMC" and I have been feral ever since.
May 19, 2026
I received this book on a Monday night and stayed up until the early morning to finish it. As I read the series, I eagerly anticipated this book because it promised to delve into the relationship and background of Hartley and Mira. This is a heartwarming and beautiful romance that explores the past traumas of two individuals and how they navigate their lives as they grow older. One character chooses to run away, while the other decides to stay. The story also delves into the concept of soulmates destined to be together, despite the obstacles that stand in their way.
After Hartley’s parents pass away, he feels a sense of duty to take care of his family’s farm. On the other hand, Mira struggles to overcome the trauma of her parents’ death as a child. She runs away and never settles down, fearing that if she loves someone deeply, they will eventually leave her.
Mira occasionally returns to town, but only for short periods before disappearing again. However, this time, her devious grandmother, Lolly, has a plan. She offers Mira a deal: if she stays married to Hartley for a year, they will inherit the farmhouse and her inheritance. Lolly’s intention is to bring Mira back home, help her heal, and find peace.
With the forced proximity, Hartley and Mira’s feelings for each other never waver . Hartley, a perfect male lead, is strong, a natural leader, patient, and devoted to Mira. He patiently waits for her to be ready to return to her life. And let’s not forget the first time he said “Darlin”! 😍
Mira’s character development is truly remarkable. She initially has her own reasons for staying away, but over time, she realizes that having family and friends who love and support her is more important than her fear of losing them. It takes time, trust, and patience, but Mira begins to heal.
Hartley and Mira’s relationship is perfect. I loved witnessing Hartley’s broody personality melt away whenever he’s with her. He would do anything for her and respects and loves her unique and fun personality. This was an incredible story that beautifully explores themes of healing, family, and everlasting love.
Also sooo is Markie’s book next?!!!
After Hartley’s parents pass away, he feels a sense of duty to take care of his family’s farm. On the other hand, Mira struggles to overcome the trauma of her parents’ death as a child. She runs away and never settles down, fearing that if she loves someone deeply, they will eventually leave her.
Mira occasionally returns to town, but only for short periods before disappearing again. However, this time, her devious grandmother, Lolly, has a plan. She offers Mira a deal: if she stays married to Hartley for a year, they will inherit the farmhouse and her inheritance. Lolly’s intention is to bring Mira back home, help her heal, and find peace.
With the forced proximity, Hartley and Mira’s feelings for each other never waver . Hartley, a perfect male lead, is strong, a natural leader, patient, and devoted to Mira. He patiently waits for her to be ready to return to her life. And let’s not forget the first time he said “Darlin”! 😍
Mira’s character development is truly remarkable. She initially has her own reasons for staying away, but over time, she realizes that having family and friends who love and support her is more important than her fear of losing them. It takes time, trust, and patience, but Mira begins to heal.
Hartley and Mira’s relationship is perfect. I loved witnessing Hartley’s broody personality melt away whenever he’s with her. He would do anything for her and respects and loves her unique and fun personality. This was an incredible story that beautifully explores themes of healing, family, and everlasting love.
Also sooo is Markie’s book next?!!!
June 1, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Now, if you know anything about me, then you know I LOVE second chance romance. I don't know what it is, but it just gets me every single time. AND not only does this book have second chance - it also has MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE!!
When I tell you I could not put this down, I mean it. I was so immersed in this story from the first chapter, that by the time I finally looked up from my kindle, I was already half way through. This is easily a finish in one sitting type of book.
Right away, from the very beginning, this book already had me laughing and kicking my feet. This was such a cute and enjoyable read but also had me feeling SO MUCH! I honestly didn't expect to feel as many emotions as I did in this one. I even got a little teary eyed at some moments.
Hartley and Mira's story was so beautiful and the way you could feel their love for each other was unmatched. And have I mentioned how much I love Hartley? Because I love that man. It's the way he would do absolutely anything for Mira. He is so in love and has been with her through the good and bad times and has quietly loved her and taken care of her and OH MY GOODNESS I COULD SCREAM WITH HOW MUCH I LOVE THAT MAN. These two are literally each other's perfect match and I loved reading about them so much!
My only complaint is that I wish it was longer!! I need morrreeee 😂 This series has been so much fun and I can't wait for Markies book next!
** OH! And there's also a cute little piggy named Pigasso! So if you weren't convinced already... surely you are now, right? 🐷
Now, if you know anything about me, then you know I LOVE second chance romance. I don't know what it is, but it just gets me every single time. AND not only does this book have second chance - it also has MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE!!
When I tell you I could not put this down, I mean it. I was so immersed in this story from the first chapter, that by the time I finally looked up from my kindle, I was already half way through. This is easily a finish in one sitting type of book.
Right away, from the very beginning, this book already had me laughing and kicking my feet. This was such a cute and enjoyable read but also had me feeling SO MUCH! I honestly didn't expect to feel as many emotions as I did in this one. I even got a little teary eyed at some moments.
Hartley and Mira's story was so beautiful and the way you could feel their love for each other was unmatched. And have I mentioned how much I love Hartley? Because I love that man. It's the way he would do absolutely anything for Mira. He is so in love and has been with her through the good and bad times and has quietly loved her and taken care of her and OH MY GOODNESS I COULD SCREAM WITH HOW MUCH I LOVE THAT MAN. These two are literally each other's perfect match and I loved reading about them so much!
My only complaint is that I wish it was longer!! I need morrreeee 😂 This series has been so much fun and I can't wait for Markies book next!
** OH! And there's also a cute little piggy named Pigasso! So if you weren't convinced already... surely you are now, right? 🐷
May 21, 2026
I’ve always loved second-chance romance. I’ve even found a soft spot for childhood friends-to-lovers. But what I wasn’t expecting? How much I apparently LOVE marriage of convenience. 😭
Maybe it’s just the way Adriana Locke writes. Maybe it’s the combination of ALL of these tropes together. Maybe it’s the way this world keeps expanding while still giving us little glimpses of characters we already know and love. Whatever it is… this book REALLY worked for me.
This entire series deserves so much more hype.
I had honestly started to think I just wasn’t a cowboy romance girl (or even cowboy-ish romance girl 😂), but there’s something about the way Adriana writes these characters that just hits every single time. She can write sports romance, small town romance, cowboy romance, complicated friend groups with years of history, and somehow weave all of it together in a way that feels so lived-in and real.
And THIS story? Ugh.
She’s the girl who never stays.
He’s the man who never leaves.
Inject it directly into my veins.
I love stories where the romance isn’t just built on attraction, but on years of history. Shared memories. Childhood friendships. A whole life created outside of the romance itself. Two people who loved each other forever, messed things up, lost their way, and still somehow find their way back to each other in the end.
That “I’d love you in every lifetime” kind of love absolutely destroys me every single time.
This book had me crying, laughing, giggling, blushing, and relating way too hard to certain characters. It was fun, emotional, comforting, romantic, and deeply heartfelt all at once. I highlighted what felt like every other page because there was constantly a line or moment I didn’t want to forget.
Alright. That’s it. I’m officially going back and reading Adriana Locke’s entire backlog now. 🤠💛
Maybe it’s just the way Adriana Locke writes. Maybe it’s the combination of ALL of these tropes together. Maybe it’s the way this world keeps expanding while still giving us little glimpses of characters we already know and love. Whatever it is… this book REALLY worked for me.
This entire series deserves so much more hype.
I had honestly started to think I just wasn’t a cowboy romance girl (or even cowboy-ish romance girl 😂), but there’s something about the way Adriana writes these characters that just hits every single time. She can write sports romance, small town romance, cowboy romance, complicated friend groups with years of history, and somehow weave all of it together in a way that feels so lived-in and real.
And THIS story? Ugh.
She’s the girl who never stays.
He’s the man who never leaves.
Inject it directly into my veins.
I love stories where the romance isn’t just built on attraction, but on years of history. Shared memories. Childhood friendships. A whole life created outside of the romance itself. Two people who loved each other forever, messed things up, lost their way, and still somehow find their way back to each other in the end.
That “I’d love you in every lifetime” kind of love absolutely destroys me every single time.
This book had me crying, laughing, giggling, blushing, and relating way too hard to certain characters. It was fun, emotional, comforting, romantic, and deeply heartfelt all at once. I highlighted what felt like every other page because there was constantly a line or moment I didn’t want to forget.
Alright. That’s it. I’m officially going back and reading Adriana Locke’s entire backlog now. 🤠💛
May 24, 2026
Review of Advance Copy received from Author
Mira was such a refreshing FMC because she’s stubborn, restless, and determined to live life on her own terms. Returning to Sugar Creek only to find out her inheritance comes with one massive condition? Absolute chaos fuel. Watching her get pushed into marrying Hartley Adler while fighting every instinct to run had me glued to the pages.
And HARTLEY. 🥵
That man is patience, steady hands, quiet longing, and “touch her and perish” energy wrapped in flannel and boots. He doesn’t overpower Mira’s fire, he grounds it. Their chemistry felt natural from the start, but the emotional tension? Deliciously slow-burning.
This book had:
💍 marriage of convenience
🤠 small town vibes
🏡 forced proximity
💜 grumpy/sunshine energy
🔥 simmering chemistry
👵 meddling grandma energy that deserves awards
What I loved most was how the story balanced romance with themes of family legacy, belonging, and figuring out what “home” really means. Mira’s emotional journey hit just as hard as the romance did.
By the end, Sugar Creek completely owned me, and Hartley Adler set the cowboy-romance standard impossibly high. Adriana Locke delivered comfort, chemistry, and heart in one perfectly boot-shaped package.
Mira was such a refreshing FMC because she’s stubborn, restless, and determined to live life on her own terms. Returning to Sugar Creek only to find out her inheritance comes with one massive condition? Absolute chaos fuel. Watching her get pushed into marrying Hartley Adler while fighting every instinct to run had me glued to the pages.
And HARTLEY. 🥵
That man is patience, steady hands, quiet longing, and “touch her and perish” energy wrapped in flannel and boots. He doesn’t overpower Mira’s fire, he grounds it. Their chemistry felt natural from the start, but the emotional tension? Deliciously slow-burning.
This book had:
💍 marriage of convenience
🤠 small town vibes
🏡 forced proximity
💜 grumpy/sunshine energy
🔥 simmering chemistry
👵 meddling grandma energy that deserves awards
What I loved most was how the story balanced romance with themes of family legacy, belonging, and figuring out what “home” really means. Mira’s emotional journey hit just as hard as the romance did.
By the end, Sugar Creek completely owned me, and Hartley Adler set the cowboy-romance standard impossibly high. Adriana Locke delivered comfort, chemistry, and heart in one perfectly boot-shaped package.
June 5, 2026
Thank you to Hambright PR and Adriana Locke for an arc of Make Me in exchange for an honest review.
4.75⭐️ || 2.5🌶️
Oh my gosh this book was so heartfelt and tender. I went in a little blind and had no clue what to expect and wow…I loved it.
And it’s fake dating / marriage of convenience which is my kryptonite!
Hartley you are one hell of a man. He is exactly how I love my mmc’s. Talk about YEARNING yall! This is a man obsessssed. He’s in love and it never wavers. Ugh my heart.
And sweet sweet Mira. I just want to give her a hug and protect her from everything.
I truly loved this.
It’s the perfect length, the perfect combo of everything you need in a feel good romance. And I am just deeply obsessed with their love. Wow.
🏡 Small Town
🔁 Second Chance
💍 Marriage of Convenience
🤠 Ranch Setting
🛌 One bed
🐷 Cutest little pig
🧍🏽♂️ Man obsessed
💘 Yearningggg
#HPRMakeMe
#AdrianaLocke
#HambrightPR
4.75⭐️ || 2.5🌶️
Oh my gosh this book was so heartfelt and tender. I went in a little blind and had no clue what to expect and wow…I loved it.
And it’s fake dating / marriage of convenience which is my kryptonite!
Hartley you are one hell of a man. He is exactly how I love my mmc’s. Talk about YEARNING yall! This is a man obsessssed. He’s in love and it never wavers. Ugh my heart.
And sweet sweet Mira. I just want to give her a hug and protect her from everything.
I truly loved this.
It’s the perfect length, the perfect combo of everything you need in a feel good romance. And I am just deeply obsessed with their love. Wow.
🏡 Small Town
🔁 Second Chance
💍 Marriage of Convenience
🤠 Ranch Setting
🛌 One bed
🐷 Cutest little pig
🧍🏽♂️ Man obsessed
💘 Yearningggg
#HPRMakeMe
#AdrianaLocke
#HambrightPR
June 7, 2026
Relyn Rating: 3.5
I enjoyed this one. It's a bit disconcerting to have a passage about the MMC being a checklist of I Corinthians 13, and no more than two paragraphs later have dirty barn sex in too much detail. Still, I generally skip the sex anyway. And, I did love the sweetness of this one.
I love rom-coms, romance novels, and love stories. So I read a lot of them. This is great fun for me, but it means that my personal "market" is oversaturated. It will take a truly great romance to get more than three stars. In case you are interested:
Relyn's personal rom-com & romance novel rating system
5 stars - This book is excellent. It stands out from the hundreds of other love stories I've read, and I loved it.
4 stars - Oh, I really, really liked this one.
3 stars - This was a good, entertaining book. I'm not sorry I read it.
2 stars - Meh - boring, or overdone, or in some other way just not a good fit for me
1 star - This one stunk.
I enjoyed this one. It's a bit disconcerting to have a passage about the MMC being a checklist of I Corinthians 13, and no more than two paragraphs later have dirty barn sex in too much detail. Still, I generally skip the sex anyway. And, I did love the sweetness of this one.
I love rom-coms, romance novels, and love stories. So I read a lot of them. This is great fun for me, but it means that my personal "market" is oversaturated. It will take a truly great romance to get more than three stars. In case you are interested:
Relyn's personal rom-com & romance novel rating system
5 stars - This book is excellent. It stands out from the hundreds of other love stories I've read, and I loved it.
4 stars - Oh, I really, really liked this one.
3 stars - This was a good, entertaining book. I'm not sorry I read it.
2 stars - Meh - boring, or overdone, or in some other way just not a good fit for me
1 star - This one stunk.
May 24, 2026
Hartley is the kind of man every girl hopes to find in her lifetime. Mira is always running because she’s terrified of getting too attached and losing the people closest to her after losing both of her parents. Hartley has always loved Mira and, unbeknownst to him, Mira has always loved him too.
Mira’s meddling grandmother offers them pieces of land under one condition… they have to stay married for at least one year. Grandma knew exactly what she was doing! She pushed her stubborn granddaughter toward healing and finally accepting the love she truly deserves.
I loved Hartley and Mira’s story, but I literally said “that’s it?!” at the end. I think the ending could’ve been stronger.. it felt a little anti-climactic. Still, it was an overall great read with great chemistry and banter.
Thank you to the author Adriana Locke for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Mira’s meddling grandmother offers them pieces of land under one condition… they have to stay married for at least one year. Grandma knew exactly what she was doing! She pushed her stubborn granddaughter toward healing and finally accepting the love she truly deserves.
I loved Hartley and Mira’s story, but I literally said “that’s it?!” at the end. I think the ending could’ve been stronger.. it felt a little anti-climactic. Still, it was an overall great read with great chemistry and banter.
Thank you to the author Adriana Locke for the ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 7, 2026
This was so CUTE 😭😭. I love a good cowboy romance, and this delivered.
This is an interconnected standalone, and I read it without the reading the others…and surprisingly it was perfectly okay?? I wasn’t confused at all, which normally isn’t the case.
Hartley yearns, like he is DOWN BAD, and I’m here for it…ALWAYS. So loyal, loving, and a heart full of gold. This book is definitely a feel good romance. It has found family, a cute piggy - named Pigasso, HEA, spice, a sassy and plotting grandma (in a good way), and cowboys…need I say more?
There’s no miscommunication trope, thank god, because that is always a big ick and you see it coming a million miles away. So, if you’re like me and hate miscommunication tropes, this is your book.
Thank you to Hambright PR and Adriana Locke for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion 💕💕
This is an interconnected standalone, and I read it without the reading the others…and surprisingly it was perfectly okay?? I wasn’t confused at all, which normally isn’t the case.
Hartley yearns, like he is DOWN BAD, and I’m here for it…ALWAYS. So loyal, loving, and a heart full of gold. This book is definitely a feel good romance. It has found family, a cute piggy - named Pigasso, HEA, spice, a sassy and plotting grandma (in a good way), and cowboys…need I say more?
There’s no miscommunication trope, thank god, because that is always a big ick and you see it coming a million miles away. So, if you’re like me and hate miscommunication tropes, this is your book.
Thank you to Hambright PR and Adriana Locke for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion 💕💕
July 25, 2026
I can't believe I'm saying this to a book written by Adriana Locke with my all-time-favorite romance trope, childhood-friends-turn-lovers, but Make Me is by far the MOST FORGETTABLE story I've ever read in my whole life. :((
As many readers mentioned, this book was pretty much the same as its synopsis. Nothing else happened throughout the entire book...no plot twists, no character development, and definitely no satisfying HEA (there was a happy ending but we all knew that was bound to happen). I was in absolute shock when I finished reading this as I kept expecting more, something unexpected, or at least more background stories of the protagonists, considering that they were whom I'd been looking forward to knowing more about. But much to my disappointment, none of these occurred.
All in all, please save yourself some time and skip this book. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone but the first three books in this series were still worth a read. :)
***Thanks to the author and Hambright PR for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
As many readers mentioned, this book was pretty much the same as its synopsis. Nothing else happened throughout the entire book...no plot twists, no character development, and definitely no satisfying HEA (there was a happy ending but we all knew that was bound to happen). I was in absolute shock when I finished reading this as I kept expecting more, something unexpected, or at least more background stories of the protagonists, considering that they were whom I'd been looking forward to knowing more about. But much to my disappointment, none of these occurred.
All in all, please save yourself some time and skip this book. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone but the first three books in this series were still worth a read. :)
***Thanks to the author and Hambright PR for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
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