Kickflip My Heart

by Chelsea DeVries

174 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 26, 2026

About the author

Chelsea DeVries fell in love with skateboarding at the tender age of 12. A friend showed her a two page spread where this young skateboarder was actually flying over an electrical box. She googled him when she got home from school that day, and her heart was forever kickflipped. And no, she doesn’t skate. She just loves and supports those who do for the pure observation that it is a form of poetry in motion. Now she frequents visits to the annual Tampa Pro contest at the Skatepark of Tampa where the wheels on the complex are music to her ears. This is her debut NA novel. She began writing professionally at age 14 and went to college to study a business version of writing. She holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Saint Leo University with a minor in International Hospitality and Tourism. Her mental health poetry collection Sticks & Stones: Full Story Edition is a multi-award winning book with it’s most recent win being a 2023 American Writing Award in Poetry and 2026 International Impact Award. When not writing, she’s fangirling over authors and musicians by managing her book and music publicity firm and publishing company The Smart Cookie Philes and sipping coffee, hanging out with her dogs Zoey and Cooper and creates characters with complexities of humanity, mental health and neurodivergent representation as she herself is Audhd since October 2020. All in all, DeVries hails from Hudson, FL and will always strive to dance on broken glass.

Reviews

[Jo Phipps · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC read provided by author: (mostly-spoiler free) The sweetest little beginning of summer read. I think we’ve all been Jessica, minus the famous actress part, at some point in life (looking for love in more than one person) and in the process of searching have found ourselves on an unbelievable “I couldn’t make this up even if I tried” kind of journey. A rom com on pages with an extra twist or two woven in. If you’re looking for something relatable, that will make you smile, keep you engaged, and that you can enjoy without overly committing your time to, this is perfect! And can we all take a moment to appreciate our man Pete and his movie taste (The Notebook 👏🏼) If you’re looking for a read with deep world building and/or intense emotional connections to characters, this probably isn’t for you (right now). This is an easy read that would make your inner early 2000’s sk8ter boi loving self giddy for a summer afternoon of relaxation and a giggle or two. 3.9/5⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

(note: this doesn’t *currently* have an age rating listed, but note that it is stated as NA (new adult) and I would recommend for 16+. While there’s not graphic “spice”, adult themes are mentioned/conveyed.)

[Cortney McKay · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this ARC.
I give a rating of 3.25 stars.

Kickflip My Heart was a quick, easy read that blends romance, self-discovery, and a touch of mystery. One thing I appreciated most was how relatable Jessica felt. I think many readers can connect with being in a season of life where you're searching for the right person, figuring out what you truly want, and navigating the ups and downs of dating.

The mystery element was another highlight for me. As someone who loves thrillers, I enjoyed trying to piece everything together, and I was genuinely surprised by the outcome. I always appreciate a story that can keep me guessing until the end.

While I enjoyed the overall concept, I struggled at times with the pacing and flow. There was a lot of attention given to character appearances, outfits, and scenery, but I found myself wanting more depth in other areas of the story. Some moments felt a bit rushed, and by the end I was left wishing certain plot points and character developments had been explored further.

Overall, this was an entertaining read with a relatable heroine and a mystery that kept me engaged. While it didn't fully hit the mark for me, I can see readers who enjoy light romance with a suspenseful twist finding a lot to enjoy here.

[Amy Klein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Advanced Review: A Perfect Blend of Theme Park Magic, Mystery, and Romance! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As an ARC (Advance Review Copy) reader, I was thrilled to get an early look at Kickflip My Heart by Chelsea DeVries, and it completely exceeded my expectations. If you are looking for your next addictive summer read, this is it!

Here is why this book needs to be on your radar:

The Backdrop: The Mouseland Resort setting is spectacular. DeVries nails the atmosphere, packing the pages with clever Disney references that will make any theme park fan smile.

The Whodunit: The story transitions seamlessly from a reality-TV-style dating show into a high-stakes murder mystery. The Nancy Drew and Sweet Valley High nostalgic vibes are spot on, keeping the pacing fast and the tension tight.

The Romance: The love quadrangle between Jessica, Pete, Jeremy, and the wildcard Bryan is filled with genuine chemistry and drama. You will definitely find yourself picking a side early on.

This is a fresh, fun, and unique indie release that effortlessly balances a cozy puzzle with high-profile Hollywood drama. Huge thanks to the author and the publisher for the ARC

[Hannah Burke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author, Chelsea DeVries, for an ARC of this book!

This is the perfect book to pick up for your next summer read! Filled with complicated relationships, theme park magic, and a murderer on the loose?!

Chelsea did a phenomenal job sucking the reader into this complicated love story. You will find yourself rooting for multiple characters throughout the journey of this book. Just when you think you have it figured out, something changes. I loved the multiple fashion, movie, and music references. (Who doesn’t love a Notebook reference?) They really brought the reader into the story and it was easy to picture each character as you move through the pages. The descriptions of these characters’ dates and the dinners they shared together will have your mouth watering for some good Italian food. There were so many scenes that it felt as if I was there sitting right with them! Get ready to feel nostalgic while reading this book!

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advanced copy received from author.

Who hasn’t wanted to be a famous actress with multiple guys vying for our love? That’s Jessica’s life! She sets up her own Bachelorette-style dating game (with a last minute self-addition of a third contestant) to determine who she loves. Then there is a murder at their hotel. It is unrelated to them, but they get embroiled in it anyway. Add in a month at a theme park and amazing fashion and this is my dream vacation!

This is a cute rom com with the tiniest bit of murder thrown in (everything is off-page and they aren’t investigating themselves). The murder is solved and people fall in love.

I had a little trouble with the timeline. Sometimes it changed times without a header and I wasn’t sure exactly when it was. But I was able to mostly keep track and it didn’t hinder my enjoyment.

[shawna tooman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Chelsea for the opportunity to be an arc reader. I would give this a 4.5 star. This was one of those books that pulled me in from the start and kept me invested until the end. I loved the fact that I felt so immersed the whole time I read it. The characters felt authentic, and I loved watching their relationships develop naturally. There was a great balance of emotional moments, humor, and tension that kept the story moving without feeling rushed. I found myself thinking about the characters even after I finished. It was one of those books that I immediately told my sister in law about and want people to read it. If you enjoy romance with plenty of heart, strong character development, and enough suspense to keep you turning the pages, I'd definitely recommend giving this one a chance. Super quick and light hearted read.

[Jesilynn Oleksza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received by author

This book was a throwback to all the early 90s and 2000s nostalgia feelings. The references to everything around that time frame and the “Disney theme park” feeling was something I didn’t know my sole needed to read.

Kismet relationships with a murder mystery and abduction made for a turn pager. I kept being like oh yes they need to be together and what is this dude doing with her to ohh okay I agree with this. Every chapter brought a new mystery I thought I figured out but of course then another twist came.

[Mari Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks for the ARC Chelsea!

This book was such a refreshing read for the summer! I absolutely loved the theme park setting; It genuinely made me excited to go on my summer adventures. Moreover, I loved the plot, character development, and relationships. They were complex, but in a sense, very relatable to understand. I also really liked the comedy implemented in this story; some parts were extremely hilarious🤣

This story is about a famous actress who invites two suitors to a theme park to get to know more about them and find her true love. However, an unexpected turn of events occur, murder.

I definitely recommend this book to those looking for a fun and light summer read!

[Mackenzie-Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided and ARC copy of this!


This book is super cute with some twists and turns, a few love interest, and a murder mystery all in one. It’s based in Florida at a (Disney) like amusement park, and it ends with a lovely love interest that finally comes together. You don’t know what’s gonna happen.

Very descriptive and it’s overall a good read!

[Natalie Schiferl · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kickflip my heart is a closed door romance meets the bachelorette meets a cozy mystery. This book follows Jessica and her love interests, with a drop in of her sister who sticks around. Someone dies, someone is arrested, and someone else gets kidnapped. Read this quick and interesting story to find out more!

[Chelsea Cardenas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was good and the 90s, 2000s vibes gave all the nostalgia feeling. Throw in the comedy, romance, and murder mystery, plus a theme park and we have a romantic comedy thriller. The throwback references were neat. The characters description made it easy to imagine what was happening and how they were feeling. This was a great light read.

[Megan Whiley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to read this as an arc. This book is a great little read. It’s love story and interactions are something you will come back to. It gave me a nostalgic feeling, from the park setting to the interests, the type of feeling that leaves you feeling fluffy, and wanting to relive the moment from the 2000s.
The relationship drama and mystery in the park was just what I was after in a quick read.
Would recommend for a great inbetween read!

[Shellyann Paape · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kickflipped My Love for Chelsea DeVries Books

This book was different then others like it. And I absolutely loved it. I devoured it in one sitting. I loved how it was a fast paced true love story/love competition with the suspense of a murder mystery.

To be honest I didn’t get the title at first. And now I absolutely do. And I love it.

[Laura Staes · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC read provided by author:
Loved that it has multiple love stories and also had a murder mystery! Normally I’m not that into murder mysteries but since within each chapter, each character had a piece, I really didn’t mind and actually enjoyed the twist!
3,8/5 ⭐️

[Bryanna Mentink · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick easy to read good summer book! I enjoyed the relationship drama, theme park atmosphere and the mystery of the book! Lots of fun references to real life which was also fun. Felt like I was going back a little in time. I thought it was pretty enjoyable over all!

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I felt like I was a kid again. The 90s vibes and Disney, yes I needed more of that! It reminded me of my childhood when Disney Channel was cool and trips to Disney still happened. This was a quick read that kept it lighthearted and fun, and nostalgia everywhere From beginning to end it wasn’t what I expected but I wasn’t disappointed. Absolutely devoured this one!!!

[Kait · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review

A good read! It’s not my typical book so I was pleasantly surprised! I really thought she’d end up with Jeremey but she seemed better fit for Bryan! I lowkey want more info on Penelope and Pete but that’s just me and I kinda got a vibe from Joe and Jeremey but that also could just be me. I gave this a four star cause it was too short for me lol jkjk I do wish there was more but this was just outta my comfort zone for me so I’m not sure how to feel but I liked it!

[Lacey Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very good book. It has romance, multiple love interests, and a murder mystery all rolled in to one short book. Along with some amusement park fun! A win for me over all!

[Bobbi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love love love!! Such a good read. I ate it up!! Definitely recommend reading.A whole hearted easy read. Perfect for summer reading goals.

[Casey Carter · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy read that brings you into a world of romance, sweet moments and all kinds of antics. This is such a great summer read. Who doesn’t want to pick up a book that features a theme park and all kinds of fun music and movie references? Add this to your TBR.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I mean who does not want to go to a theme park where all your dreams come true with 2 "friends"? Who does not want a childhood friend to show up to prove he never forgot her,and right after a murder? And who doesn't love a clean romance with some twists and turns I guarantee you won't expect.

[Holli C · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars from me - out this month, I was kindly sent an ARC copy for review!

A new author to me, Kickflip my heart focuses on celebrity, Jessica Cortez, a twenty-something A-lister at the top of her game in the world of celebrity. She starts the story trying to decide between Jeremy, a fellow A- list actor known for his playboy lifestyle and Jessica’s childhood celebrity crush, and Pete, a high school crush and male model making it in Hollywood. Together, all of them are visiting Mouseland Resort, a resort full of thrill-seeking rides.

The story starts with both Jeremy and Pete vying for Jessica’s attention and Jessica herself playing them both off against each other whilst trying to decide who she wants to be with.

Enter another potential suitor, Bryan, a skateboarder who she has known since her school days.

The first part of the book focuses on Jessica and her backstory with each chap, whilst the second part is all about a murder that’s taken place where one of the main characters stands accused. The final part exposes secrets and lies, reveals the murderer and motive, whilst giving dimension to all characters.

Overall this is a pleasant read - whilst it won’t have you on the edge of your seat, there’s enough there for it to be a cosy murder mystery story. All the characters are likeable, the chapters are easy to read and it gives you a taste of what celebrities are experiencing today in a world where your love life is everyone’s business. This story is short, sweet and a show stopping romance with a side of murder mystery thrown in!

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t just start this I promise. I forgot to add to my Goodreads when I started to read it.

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This book was such a fun surprise! It blended romance, mystery, nostalgia, and theme park magic into a story that kept me turning the pages late into the night.

I loved how the relationships developed throughout the story. Every time I thought I knew who Jessica belonged with, something happened that completely changed my mind. The love triangle (or should I say… love square?) kept me guessing just as much as the murder mystery did.

The nostalgic references to the late ’90s and early 2000s made this feel extra special. Between the music, movies, fashion, and the Disney-inspired theme park atmosphere, it felt like stepping into a place I never wanted to leave. I could easily picture every scene and found myself wishing I could book this vacation myself.

The mystery was well-paced, with enough twists to keep me questioning everyone without taking away from the romance. I also appreciated that the suspense balanced nicely with the lighter, fun moments, making this a perfect summer read.

If you enjoy rom-coms with multiple love interests, nostalgic pop culture references, a cozy murder mystery, and plenty of theme park charm, I definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR!

⭐ 4/5 stars! I had such a great time with this story and can’t wait to read more from this author.

[Desi · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m glad that some people seemed to really enjoy this book, but I unfortunately knew very quickly that it was not going to be for me, but I pushed through to about 16% before I DNF’d. While I figured “Mouseland” was going to be loosely based off of Disney, it was essentially a direct copy with everything just renamed. Ok, I could probably get past that.

What I couldn’t get past was the poor grammar and writing style. It felt like it was written by someone very young with poor sentence structure with repeated use of things such as “he goes...” when talking about something someone said and consistently repeating the same starts to sentences “Yet,…” in a very short window. And having only gotten through 16% of a ~170 page book, those things popping up so many times in the 30 pages was just too much for me.

It also would’ve been helpful to have a bit more intro into the background of the FMC and not jump straight into showing up to the trip with two guys and no context around the situation or her as a person? Had there been more background, maybe it would’ve made more sense? I dunno.

It just wasn’t for me, and that’s ok. Not every book is for every person.

[Emma Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn't a genre I would normally pick up, but I went into it knowing that and wanted to support a local author. I'm so glad I did! The story was sweet, with so many fun references to Florida and Disney that made it extra enjoyable.

At first, I was a little unsure where the story was headed with so many potential love interests, but everything came together into the perfect little fairy tale. I also really enjoyed getting each character's point of view, it was easy to follow and added depth to the story.

The murder plot added an interesting layer to the story. I liked that it was woven in subtly rather than taking over the entire book, allowing the romance and character development to remain the main focus while still adding some suspense.

The only thing that surprised me was how much time had passed in the book. When it was finally mentioned, I was shocked because it felt like the story had flown by. Overall, it was a cute, enjoyable read, and I'd love to see what happens with the other characters in future books!

[Cheyenne · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC read provided by author:
Kickflip My Heart is a definite summer must read and definitely a rollercoaster of a ride. To be quite honest I normally don't read books that have romance and a murder mystery in it but I absolutely loved this one! Also who was murdered surprised me a lot because it's not who I thought was going to be murdered, I thought it would be one of the love interests. From the very beginning I found myself rooting for Jessica and Pete. But by the middle or close to the end of the book I was rooting for Jessica and Bryan even though I thought Bryan was just some creepy ex and Penelope and Pete. I have to applaud Pete's taste in movies (The Notebook) is also one of my favorite movies and books.

This book currently has an age rating as NA (New Adult) and I would recommend it for 15+.

[Charlotte Gibbons · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided by the author. (Contains hunts of spoilers) I devoured this book in one sitting. I was obsessed with the Disney links involved and also loved the short chapters. At the beginning I felt so sorry for Pete and the whole situation but I'm glad things progressed well and everyone found their person. The whole murder mystery aspect kept me hooked right the way through. It was such a fast paced story which I also loved. No written spice too which is a bonus and a book can be enjoyed without it. All round 3.75/5 stars. Highly recommend!

One quote I loved was "It means you're alive and this moment is yours, and yours alone. Don't let anything keep you from making the most of it." - Bryan

[Kourt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jessica decides to take some time for herself by booking a retreat to Mouseland (ahem, Disneyland) where she can ride rollercoasters and lounge by the pool...of course she openly invites two suitors to accompany her to vie for her attention - a fellow celebrity and her high school crush. Both of which seem oddly okay with the early bachelorette-style first few days.

Of course, add in a dead body, someone is in jail pleading for help, while also a pro skater ex and her sister also arrive at the resort. So, of course Jessica has to turn into Nancy Drew and discover the murderer.

It's a bit of a mix of ideas and storylines but it's cute. Closed-door spice and easy to read.

[Brianna Laffey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kickflip My Heart completely warmed my heart from beginning to end. The characters were easy to fall in love with, and I found myself constantly eager to see what would happen next. Every chapter kept me turning the pages, balancing sweet moments with enough emotion to keep me invested. If you're looking for a heartfelt romance that's both engaging and hard to put down, this one is definitely worth reading! 💜

[Lynda Malone · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kickflip My Heart

I will be honest, I struggled at the start of this book with it's style of writing. But once I settled into the story, the writing became easier to read.

This was a short romance with multiple love interests and a murder mystery that keeps you tied into the story till the end. It sits at just under 4 stars for me.