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Dream House #1
Dream House
When Stella Mouton inherits her grandmother's neglected three-story house, she can't afford to keep it or keep it up—unless she rents out the rooms. A witch, a waif, and a warrior woman are all welcome.
The hot geology student is not.
After walking away from a three-year relationship, Lark Bienvenue needs a place to live. Just until he finishes college. Shacking up with four women, a preschooler, and a guy with head trauma isn't the smartest thing he's ever done, but anything is better than moving back home. Literally, anything.
Besides, the house is huge. It should be easy enough to avoid his roommates— and the gorgeous landlady who seems to hate him on sight.
Except ignoring a houseful of women is harder than it sounds. And not falling for Stella Mouton?
Well, that’s just impossible.
The hot geology student is not.
After walking away from a three-year relationship, Lark Bienvenue needs a place to live. Just until he finishes college. Shacking up with four women, a preschooler, and a guy with head trauma isn't the smartest thing he's ever done, but anything is better than moving back home. Literally, anything.
Besides, the house is huge. It should be easy enough to avoid his roommates— and the gorgeous landlady who seems to hate him on sight.
Except ignoring a houseful of women is harder than it sounds. And not falling for Stella Mouton?
Well, that’s just impossible.
ebook
First published January 7, 2022
40 people are currently reading
744 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Fournet
17 books515 followersBestselling romance author Stephanie Fournet has thirteen novels and one novella to her name. She lives in Lafayette, Louisiana—not far from the Saint Streets where her novels are set. She shares her home with her husband and their needy dogs Mabel and Bud, and the ghosts of dogs past. When she isn’t writing romance novels, Stephanie is usually helping students get into college, camping, or curled up with a good book. She loves hearing from readers, so look for her on Facebook, Instagram, and stephaniefournet.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
January 18, 2022
★4.5★
Dream House is the first book in the Dream House Series. Stephanie Fournet is a master storyteller, and she has once again captivated me entirely by this beautiful contemporary romance. Stella Mouton is a single mom who inherited her grandmother's house. All Stella has ever wanted is to provide a happy and healthy home for her daughter and disabled brother. When her best friend talks her into opening her house up to renters, an ensemble of unlikely characters is instantly brought together. Lark Bienvenue, a college student, has recently broken up with his fiance and is hunting for a place to live his life without commitment. However, when Stella and Lark come together, an instant connection is forged. Neither expected to have feelings for the other and yet, once they connect, there is no tearing them apart.
I look forward to more of the Dream House Crew!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
"𝕀 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕓𝕖𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝕥𝕙𝕒𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤."
Dream House is the first book in the Dream House Series. Stephanie Fournet is a master storyteller, and she has once again captivated me entirely by this beautiful contemporary romance. Stella Mouton is a single mom who inherited her grandmother's house. All Stella has ever wanted is to provide a happy and healthy home for her daughter and disabled brother. When her best friend talks her into opening her house up to renters, an ensemble of unlikely characters is instantly brought together. Lark Bienvenue, a college student, has recently broken up with his fiance and is hunting for a place to live his life without commitment. However, when Stella and Lark come together, an instant connection is forged. Neither expected to have feelings for the other and yet, once they connect, there is no tearing them apart.
"𝕀 𝕝𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕓𝕖𝕤𝕥 𝕨𝕒𝕪 𝕥𝕠 𝕜𝕖𝕖𝕡 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕘𝕖𝕥𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕙𝕦𝕣𝕥 𝕚𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕖𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥 𝕟𝕠𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕟𝕘."Overall, Dream House offers a complex story with diverse characters, passion, and a lot of heart. Ms. Fournet has again crafted a world that will draw you in from the first moment and it will stay with you forever.
I look forward to more of the Dream House Crew!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
January 28, 2022
4.5 stars ⭐️
Stephanie Fournet gifted a delightful story with fantastic characters!
Stephanie Fournet gifted a delightful story with fantastic characters!
October 31, 2023
Im moving in.
June 23, 2022
This is only my second book by author Stephanie Fournet, but each one leaves me feeling absolutely satisfied as a reader and a human being. There is something magical about the way she writes; her prose, the characters that are relatable, real, and leave you feeling as if you’ve made new friends, the way she weaves everyday life and problems (single parenthood, domestic violence, traumatic brain injury, non conformity, parental and societal pressures) into a story but doesn’t make it preachy or boring. I want to find this wonderful old home and wrap each and every one of these tenants in my arms and give them a hug.
While a romance takes place in this book, this story is about so much more. It’s about living life, making changes, found family, and taking chances, and I loved each and every uplifting and come together moment in this book.
Stella and Lark seem like they are at two different points in life; Stella a 28 year old single mom to a precocious 4 year old who just inherited her grandmother’s grand old home and Lark a 23 year old college student, fresh out of a 3 year relationship because he knows he will never marry, raised in a strict Catholic family and a lover of geology and earth. Yet, there is this current between them that pulls them together from the start and the slow burn romance is perfect for them even when things go sideways they are still connected in a way neither one can explain.
Add in their housemates; a domestic abuse survivor trying to escape her stalking ex, Stella’s older brother who suffered a brain injury three years prior due to a motorcycle accident, her best friend Pen; a witchy woman with many talents, and Livy a young, black woman who just wants to be in a place where she feels welcomed, and you have a wonderful cast of supporting characters each with their own distinct personality, each with a unique quality that makes them special to all the others, and each willing to do whatever it takes to support one another. This found family is absolutely one of the best things about this book.
Dream House is one of those books that as soon as I finished it, I wanted to go back and re-read it again; it is that good. A feel good story of life, friendship, and love; don’t miss this one.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
While a romance takes place in this book, this story is about so much more. It’s about living life, making changes, found family, and taking chances, and I loved each and every uplifting and come together moment in this book.
Stella and Lark seem like they are at two different points in life; Stella a 28 year old single mom to a precocious 4 year old who just inherited her grandmother’s grand old home and Lark a 23 year old college student, fresh out of a 3 year relationship because he knows he will never marry, raised in a strict Catholic family and a lover of geology and earth. Yet, there is this current between them that pulls them together from the start and the slow burn romance is perfect for them even when things go sideways they are still connected in a way neither one can explain.
Add in their housemates; a domestic abuse survivor trying to escape her stalking ex, Stella’s older brother who suffered a brain injury three years prior due to a motorcycle accident, her best friend Pen; a witchy woman with many talents, and Livy a young, black woman who just wants to be in a place where she feels welcomed, and you have a wonderful cast of supporting characters each with their own distinct personality, each with a unique quality that makes them special to all the others, and each willing to do whatever it takes to support one another. This found family is absolutely one of the best things about this book.
Dream House is one of those books that as soon as I finished it, I wanted to go back and re-read it again; it is that good. A feel good story of life, friendship, and love; don’t miss this one.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
May 14, 2022
okay read but I was missing something
February 5, 2022
A four because some of the points were too heavy handed and some of the motivations could have been a bit clearer. Especially Lark's hang up.
Edit: I feel like I could have been clearer here. I expect a lot from Stephanie Fournet and that might be a little unfair. She is so great and has written some of my all time favorites. In Dream House I just wanted a little more from Lark and his (no spoiler) issues. The ragtag team who lives in the dream house was so fun, but sometimes they could be preachy in a way while I totally agree with, but wasn't quite as believable or likable as I wanted.
Edit: I feel like I could have been clearer here. I expect a lot from Stephanie Fournet and that might be a little unfair. She is so great and has written some of my all time favorites. In Dream House I just wanted a little more from Lark and his (no spoiler) issues. The ragtag team who lives in the dream house was so fun, but sometimes they could be preachy in a way while I totally agree with, but wasn't quite as believable or likable as I wanted.
January 28, 2022
This wasn’t terrible, but also not that good. I found Stella’s and Lark’s relationship incredibly boring. There wasn’t a lot of development, nor communication in order to grow.
The rest of the characters were ok, although, I found Pen’s witchcraft to be annoying at times.
This was a miss for me.
The rest of the characters were ok, although, I found Pen’s witchcraft to be annoying at times.
This was a miss for me.
Read
October 5, 2022No, I don't plan to review my own book, but can I just say how much I enjoyed Tantor Audio's recording? Grace Grant is so talented! I've enjoyed her recordings for years, and it is such an honor to have her read one of my books. She and Connor Brown brought the inhabitants of Stella Mouton's house to life in a whole new way for me. So grateful!
October 15, 2023
So tbh I have been debating how to rate this because Lark is a 23year old college boy who is going on 18year old high-school kid. He’s got that arrogant air about him that makes him stick his head up his ass studying those old ass rocks and being a little coward.
THANKFULLY he redeemed himself good at the very end and even though it was a little dramatic I think it was the best grovel and payback for being a little chickenshit boy.
With that cleared, I absolutely loved the concept of this book so fucking much. I love Stella and how she was drawn out for us. I love the support system she has. This book had banter, wit, charm, love, friendship. The friendship between Pen and Stella made me cry. I love when women are like that🥹🫶🏼
Truth be told I only read this book because I am DYING to read about tyler and Nina. So don’t mind if I do🫢
THANKFULLY he redeemed himself good at the very end and even though it was a little dramatic I think it was the best grovel and payback for being a little chickenshit boy.
With that cleared, I absolutely loved the concept of this book so fucking much. I love Stella and how she was drawn out for us. I love the support system she has. This book had banter, wit, charm, love, friendship. The friendship between Pen and Stella made me cry. I love when women are like that🥹🫶🏼
Truth be told I only read this book because I am DYING to read about tyler and Nina. So don’t mind if I do🫢
January 3, 2022
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Dream House, and I absolutely adored this book.
Stephanie builds such distinct characters in all her works, and Dream House stands out in showcasing her ability to render real, relatable people that you can connect with. I didn’t want to stop reading about the interactions of the various characters as they find a way to live together under one roof. Stella and Lark are both so likeable, with real flaws and ambitions and hangups and problems that really have you rooting for them.
But beneath the romance (which is swoon-worthy), Stephanie also handles other difficult topics with the utmost care. For example, the domestic abuse suffered by one of the housemates, who is trying to escape a stalking ex. And then there’s Stella’s brother, Tyler, who is recovering from a head injury and struggles with the difficulties of his new reality. I loved that. I never get to see that kind of character in a book and he was rendered so well, with care and attention to detail. This is what Stephanie does so well - it’s not just a romance, it’s a fulfilling read that makes you think about some important topics and how they make the characters feel, how they shape their actions and behaviours.
Also, I love the way Stephanie writes spice. It’s hot and the perfect about of spicy detail, but importantly is also written with so much care.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series ❤️
Stephanie builds such distinct characters in all her works, and Dream House stands out in showcasing her ability to render real, relatable people that you can connect with. I didn’t want to stop reading about the interactions of the various characters as they find a way to live together under one roof. Stella and Lark are both so likeable, with real flaws and ambitions and hangups and problems that really have you rooting for them.
But beneath the romance (which is swoon-worthy), Stephanie also handles other difficult topics with the utmost care. For example, the domestic abuse suffered by one of the housemates, who is trying to escape a stalking ex. And then there’s Stella’s brother, Tyler, who is recovering from a head injury and struggles with the difficulties of his new reality. I loved that. I never get to see that kind of character in a book and he was rendered so well, with care and attention to detail. This is what Stephanie does so well - it’s not just a romance, it’s a fulfilling read that makes you think about some important topics and how they make the characters feel, how they shape their actions and behaviours.
Also, I love the way Stephanie writes spice. It’s hot and the perfect about of spicy detail, but importantly is also written with so much care.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series ❤️
January 18, 2022
Wow!!! this book is seriously going to ruin me for a great while 😅 honestly it started out mellow, it took a while for the main characters to even meet face to face, and I wasn’t sure what the author was trying to accomplish by having so many characters and personalities but the story just kept getting good…good(er)… then Oh-m-freaking-gahhh-so-much-wow-amazing... The puzzle pieces fell into place, and I fell in love with Stella’s eccentric, strong, geeky, funny tenants/family….and the dialogue, and the writing is so beautiful. That’s my best recommendation for any reader I guess; keep reading…Lark and Stella’s story is a slow burn but great things come for those who wait.
Favorite quotes:
(Oh man too many to count but here’s a few)
“Because [lark] beauty is holy. I’ve never witnessed anything like it. He’s proof that the divine exists and it’s benevolent”.
“His smile is a wild creature. Like the heritage horses that live in Kisatchie Forest. Miraculous. Beautiful. Real”
“The only rules you had to follow were the ones that kept you alive. No dogma to smother you. No laws to confuse you. Just lives to be shared. Movement in the sky catches my eye. A bald eagle draws me from my fantasy where I live with Stella in a prehistoric Eden”
Favorite quotes:
(Oh man too many to count but here’s a few)
“Because [lark] beauty is holy. I’ve never witnessed anything like it. He’s proof that the divine exists and it’s benevolent”.
“His smile is a wild creature. Like the heritage horses that live in Kisatchie Forest. Miraculous. Beautiful. Real”
“The only rules you had to follow were the ones that kept you alive. No dogma to smother you. No laws to confuse you. Just lives to be shared. Movement in the sky catches my eye. A bald eagle draws me from my fantasy where I live with Stella in a prehistoric Eden”
January 14, 2022
This was such a sweet book. I truly cared about the characters, rooted for them, worried about them and wanted a happily ever after in an absurd way. The author did such an excellent job of dealing with sensitive subjects and not making them feel like just plot devices. The conflicts seemed organic and real, which is a constant complaint I have about romcoms. I highly recommend this book for fans of romcoms.
December 31, 2022
I'm not a huge fan of books where the main characters.... then ALL the side characters pair up. This time? All within first meeting because their auras matched. And? All predicted by the one that identifies as a house witch. I also just didn't like the male protagonist, he was an immature 23 year old guy. The ending was predictable and I skimmed a solid 50 percent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2022
Such a wonderful read!
I loved a new twist on finding love, putting together a hedge lodge of people,e and seeing the relationships develop. I’m a sucker for people breaking out of their molds!
I loved a new twist on finding love, putting together a hedge lodge of people,e and seeing the relationships develop. I’m a sucker for people breaking out of their molds!
March 2, 2025
The book had a lot of charming points, mostly the characters themselves and the way the house came together as a family, but there were a lot of things that detracted from the story for me. Most importantly/most annoyingly is how every single damn character could win a gold medal in conclusion jumping. It was ridiculous the amount of times they lept to the most asinine conclusions, especially the side characters that had no idea what was actually going on which led to them meddling and causing even more problems and self-doubt. And yes, this is a common plot driver, however its not usually used over and over and over with EVERY contributing character- EVEN THE CHILD. Like c'mon. Because of all the conclusion jumping and pre-existing baggage (both sides are hot messes) it was just one miscommunication after another, often with lashing out, hurt feelings, and/or listening to side characters cause even more problems. It was, quite frankly, exhausting after a while. I almost DNFd but I needed an audiobook to keep my brain distracted and I guess being annoyed/irritated with a book is just as effective distraction as enjoying one is.
It was disappointing because I don't see a lot of geology representation and that's something near and dear to my heart. And I enjoyed those parts of Lark's character. (I hated his family though and how obsessed they were with him getting married and how they treated him like shit about it. Including his brother that he's supposedly really close with. And his brothers wife's meddling.) I also really enjoyed Penn's character, both her fluid sexuality and her occult proclivities, and how decently-versed (not quite "well-versed") the author was in certain aspects of the occult. However, I *hated* how Stella made fun of, poked at, and belittled Penn's beliefs. It was unnecessary, like it made her unlikeable to a degree and I almost wished the author had just not included it at all because you have this fantastic side character that you continually cut down with the FMC, AND the audiobook narration made it sound even worse because she was so over the top about it.
Honestly 3 stars is probably too generous but I did finish it and there weren't any major writing sins... and the plot was decent, I love the whole Grandmother giving her a house and her filling it and turning it into a home like Gran wished angle. Found family is always a weakness of mine.
It was disappointing because I don't see a lot of geology representation and that's something near and dear to my heart. And I enjoyed those parts of Lark's character. (I hated his family though and how obsessed they were with him getting married and how they treated him like shit about it. Including his brother that he's supposedly really close with. And his brothers wife's meddling.) I also really enjoyed Penn's character, both her fluid sexuality and her occult proclivities, and how decently-versed (not quite "well-versed") the author was in certain aspects of the occult. However, I *hated* how Stella made fun of, poked at, and belittled Penn's beliefs. It was unnecessary, like it made her unlikeable to a degree and I almost wished the author had just not included it at all because you have this fantastic side character that you continually cut down with the FMC, AND the audiobook narration made it sound even worse because she was so over the top about it.
Honestly 3 stars is probably too generous but I did finish it and there weren't any major writing sins... and the plot was decent, I love the whole Grandmother giving her a house and her filling it and turning it into a home like Gran wished angle. Found family is always a weakness of mine.
January 13, 2022
Wonderful story with a charming cast!
Stephanie builds such distinct characters in all her works, and Dream House stands out in showcasing her ability to render real, relatable people that you can connect with. I didn’t want to stop reading about the interactions of the various characters as they find a way to live together under one roof. Stella and Lark are both so likeable, with real flaws and ambitions and hangups and problems that really have you rooting for them.
But beneath the romance (which is swoon-worthy), Stephanie also handles other difficult topics with the utmost care. For example, the domestic abuse suffered by one of the housemates, who is trying to escape a stalking ex. And then there’s Stella’s brother, Tyler, who is recovering from a head injury and struggles with the difficulties of his new reality. I loved that. I never get to see that kind of character in a book and he was rendered so well, with care and attention to detail. This is what Stephanie does so well - it’s not just a romance, it’s a fulfilling read that makes you think about some important topics and how they make the characters feel, how they shape their actions and behaviours.
Also, I love the way Stephanie writes spice. It’s hot and the perfect about of spicy detail, but importantly is also written with so much care.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series ❤️
Stephanie builds such distinct characters in all her works, and Dream House stands out in showcasing her ability to render real, relatable people that you can connect with. I didn’t want to stop reading about the interactions of the various characters as they find a way to live together under one roof. Stella and Lark are both so likeable, with real flaws and ambitions and hangups and problems that really have you rooting for them.
But beneath the romance (which is swoon-worthy), Stephanie also handles other difficult topics with the utmost care. For example, the domestic abuse suffered by one of the housemates, who is trying to escape a stalking ex. And then there’s Stella’s brother, Tyler, who is recovering from a head injury and struggles with the difficulties of his new reality. I loved that. I never get to see that kind of character in a book and he was rendered so well, with care and attention to detail. This is what Stephanie does so well - it’s not just a romance, it’s a fulfilling read that makes you think about some important topics and how they make the characters feel, how they shape their actions and behaviours.
Also, I love the way Stephanie writes spice. It’s hot and the perfect about of spicy detail, but importantly is also written with so much care.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series ❤️
October 12, 2022
Quick read and good story. The couple of points that bugged me the day I finished it, I have since forgotten. I’m happy to know it’s a series because I do so enjoy a series. You get to know the characters better that way.
January 23, 2022
I want to rent a room!!
I loved getting to know the roommates! I appreciate all that Stella gives and am so happy for her!!!! Now I have to wait for Book 2!
I loved getting to know the roommates! I appreciate all that Stella gives and am so happy for her!!!! Now I have to wait for Book 2!
May 31, 2023
A Stephanie Fournet original
By that i mean this book ticks off all the peculiar qualities in her works. Extremely likable characters, happily ever after, relatable incidents, appropriate amount of spice,a lot of flirty banter.
I loved it.
By that i mean this book ticks off all the peculiar qualities in her works. Extremely likable characters, happily ever after, relatable incidents, appropriate amount of spice,a lot of flirty banter.
I loved it.
February 1, 2023
Wonderful first book in the series! I can’t wait to read more! This is my third Stephanie Fournet book and I’ve loved them all!! As soon as I read the synopsis I knew this was going to be fun read and it was sweeter than I’d expected. I’m such a sucker for romance, but I also appreciate how her stories seem plausible, like they could happen in real life. For instance, the main character in this book is a single mother with a 4-year old daughter and is helping care for her disabled brother. Her grandmother recently passed away and left her this big, beautiful old home. This isn’t a story about a young lady without any obstacles or challenges, which made it more interesting. I also love how she encorporates characters of different races, ethnicities and social backgrounds. It’s such a relief to read books that embrace these differences and still bring the characters together. I’m very excited to have stumbled upon this author this year and I look forward to reading many more of her books.
April 2, 2023
4.5 stars
I really loved this. I agree with other reviewers that the relationship development between Lark and Stella could have been better, but I really felt their chemistry, and the tropes in this book (single mom, roommates, forced proximity) made this so much fun to read.
My favourite thing about this book was probably the setting. The Autumn setting made it super cosy and house was so charming. I loved that we got to see a wider cast of characters all interacting. It's rare that I'm super interested in side characters in a romance, but I loved how unique and diverse all the renters were, and I'm really excited to learn more about them all. I'm so excited for Tyler and Nina's book!
I really loved this. I agree with other reviewers that the relationship development between Lark and Stella could have been better, but I really felt their chemistry, and the tropes in this book (single mom, roommates, forced proximity) made this so much fun to read.
My favourite thing about this book was probably the setting. The Autumn setting made it super cosy and house was so charming. I loved that we got to see a wider cast of characters all interacting. It's rare that I'm super interested in side characters in a romance, but I loved how unique and diverse all the renters were, and I'm really excited to learn more about them all. I'm so excited for Tyler and Nina's book!
April 3, 2023
So, it's been probably two months since I've read this book, so I forgot most of the plot and my thoughts about the book and the characters and everything, so I'm going to do this review bullet point style.
So 1) I remember being really frustrated with the way the MMC was written because it just didn't make sense to me that he was depicted as somebody who was questioning his relationship with his parents and with religion and yet failed to question the way he saw himself and the way his family saw him. He just accepted at face value what his family thought of him. It felt like in his mind he was this awful human male who was just using women and leading them on, the bad guy in his own story, while, in my opinion, he was not a bad guy at all. Particularly not in the relationship with his ex-girlfriend, because if he had repeatedly, directly, clearly said to her "I do not want to get married", then it was absolutely not his fault that she still believed that they would get married. He was not leading her on, he was not pretending to be somebody that he was not, she just wasn't listening to him, so her getting hurt (emotionally) was completely on her. I just felt like a person/ character who has built his sense of self around the idea of questioning the majority of beliefs passed onto him by his parents, it just made no sense that he would not question their belief about who he was as a person. Plus, he went from "I need to stay away 'cause I'll end up hurting the MFC 'cause I'm a fundamentally bad person" to "I can't stay away from the MFC 'cause I love her, but I still believe myself to be a fundamentally bad person" abruptly and I HATED IT.
2) I absolutely loved the aspect of found family, and the total acceptance of each other.
3) the way the MFC went from "I only choose men that could not possibly live up to my expectations because I was emotionally hurt by my parents as a child, and I am picking men who I know will disappoint me because that way at least I know I will be disappointed and I don't get my hopes up/ I protect myself by hurting myself from the get-go" to "Okay, I'm cured, I'm ready to accept love in its fullest/ purest form" felt a little abrupt to me.
The all I cam remember standing out to me, so, a solid C+ read (would have been a B+ had the MMC not been burdened by lack of introspection and had his parents not been Catholic), but will not be reading the next book in the series, as the book felt long and drawn out as I was reading it.
ok book? L Void
So 1) I remember being really frustrated with the way the MMC was written because it just didn't make sense to me that he was depicted as somebody who was questioning his relationship with his parents and with religion and yet failed to question the way he saw himself and the way his family saw him. He just accepted at face value what his family thought of him. It felt like in his mind he was this awful human male who was just using women and leading them on, the bad guy in his own story, while, in my opinion, he was not a bad guy at all. Particularly not in the relationship with his ex-girlfriend, because if he had repeatedly, directly, clearly said to her "I do not want to get married", then it was absolutely not his fault that she still believed that they would get married. He was not leading her on, he was not pretending to be somebody that he was not, she just wasn't listening to him, so her getting hurt (emotionally) was completely on her. I just felt like a person/ character who has built his sense of self around the idea of questioning the majority of beliefs passed onto him by his parents, it just made no sense that he would not question their belief about who he was as a person. Plus, he went from "I need to stay away 'cause I'll end up hurting the MFC 'cause I'm a fundamentally bad person" to "I can't stay away from the MFC 'cause I love her, but I still believe myself to be a fundamentally bad person" abruptly and I HATED IT.
2) I absolutely loved the aspect of found family, and the total acceptance of each other.
3) the way the MFC went from "I only choose men that could not possibly live up to my expectations because I was emotionally hurt by my parents as a child, and I am picking men who I know will disappoint me because that way at least I know I will be disappointed and I don't get my hopes up/ I protect myself by hurting myself from the get-go" to "Okay, I'm cured, I'm ready to accept love in its fullest/ purest form" felt a little abrupt to me.
The all I cam remember standing out to me, so, a solid C+ read (would have been a B+ had the MMC not been burdened by lack of introspection and had his parents not been Catholic), but will not be reading the next book in the series, as the book felt long and drawn out as I was reading it.
ok book? L Void
September 2, 2024
The Catholic guilt in this was SO Real. lark's conversation with his mother really triggered me for a bit there. this isn't a story about religion or faith but the author was really able to show the pervasiveness of faith in Lark's life despite renouncing it. Lark represents all of us who were failed by the Church and still can't shake it off because it's all we've known. But like most of us, Lark finds a way to make peace with it. Lark remains a family man and loving son, brother, and uncle despite difference in religious beliefs. I do wish their family drama had a resolution especially because their lack of faith in him, the non-acceptance of him, and the constant efforts to change him was what nearly made him almost lose Stella.
I almost DNF'd this when i got anxious about Stella meeting Lark's family and how his mother would react to him dating a single mother so it's a good thing we were spared from that.
And like everyone in that house, I love Stella. She made them feel safe despite being broken and troubled herself.
This is a good portrayal of the found family trope and the author writes it so well and with so much emotion. The sex scene was the most tearful experience because they realize their love at almost the same time.
Edit: I was worried about Stella meeting Lark's mother because too many devout Catholics look down on single mothers, especially those unmarried by choice.
Also want to add that Stella and Lark's relationship issues were nicely resolved because they finally chose to have an honest conversation.
I'm a new braille keyboard user and it's quite the adjustment to maintain a steady flow of thought because I think faster than I can type. So this review is a mess.
Also adding that I enjoyed the contrast between Pen's spirituality and all the Catholic talk.
I almost DNF'd this when i got anxious about Stella meeting Lark's family and how his mother would react to him dating a single mother so it's a good thing we were spared from that.
And like everyone in that house, I love Stella. She made them feel safe despite being broken and troubled herself.
This is a good portrayal of the found family trope and the author writes it so well and with so much emotion. The sex scene was the most tearful experience because they realize their love at almost the same time.
Edit: I was worried about Stella meeting Lark's mother because too many devout Catholics look down on single mothers, especially those unmarried by choice.
Also want to add that Stella and Lark's relationship issues were nicely resolved because they finally chose to have an honest conversation.
I'm a new braille keyboard user and it's quite the adjustment to maintain a steady flow of thought because I think faster than I can type. So this review is a mess.
Also adding that I enjoyed the contrast between Pen's spirituality and all the Catholic talk.
December 19, 2022
✨ REVIEW TIME ✨
Well here we are again visiting Louisiana. Last weeks review was New York meets Louisiana. This review is just Louisiana and I am in LOVE.
So thankful to have received this book from @inkslingerpr PR package 📦
Stella is a single mom who just inherited her passing grandmother’s house 🏠. What is a single mom to do with such a big historical house? Rent out the rooms of course!
Her best friend & witch 🧙♀️ Pen put an ad together to help rent out the rooms. Not only is Stella’s friend Pen renting one but her disabled brother is with her too along with her 4 year old daughter.
The other tenants are a recently abused and homeless girl- Nina. Very headstrong and independent woman- Livy and a very attractive and deeply troubled geology 🪨 student- Lark.
All of these various personalities under one roof is a little tough at first but it turns into a family. Sometimes family isn’t what you’re born with, sometimes it’s how you make it. And this book does just that. I absolutely loved the dynamic between all the characters and each one of them slowly opening up and getting closer to each other.
And the tension between Stella and Lark is 🔥🔥 slow burn at it’s finest. This book was so heartfelt and definitely pulled at my heart strings. Please give this a read!
Thank you again to Inkslinger & Stephanie for this amazing book in my package!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
Stand alone or series: series 📚
Well here we are again visiting Louisiana. Last weeks review was New York meets Louisiana. This review is just Louisiana and I am in LOVE.
So thankful to have received this book from @inkslingerpr PR package 📦
Stella is a single mom who just inherited her passing grandmother’s house 🏠. What is a single mom to do with such a big historical house? Rent out the rooms of course!
Her best friend & witch 🧙♀️ Pen put an ad together to help rent out the rooms. Not only is Stella’s friend Pen renting one but her disabled brother is with her too along with her 4 year old daughter.
The other tenants are a recently abused and homeless girl- Nina. Very headstrong and independent woman- Livy and a very attractive and deeply troubled geology 🪨 student- Lark.
All of these various personalities under one roof is a little tough at first but it turns into a family. Sometimes family isn’t what you’re born with, sometimes it’s how you make it. And this book does just that. I absolutely loved the dynamic between all the characters and each one of them slowly opening up and getting closer to each other.
And the tension between Stella and Lark is 🔥🔥 slow burn at it’s finest. This book was so heartfelt and definitely pulled at my heart strings. Please give this a read!
Thank you again to Inkslinger & Stephanie for this amazing book in my package!
Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 3.5/5 🌶🌶🌶
Stand alone or series: series 📚
August 4, 2023
4 Holding All Of Us Stars ⭐
I have to admit the Dream House was a little slow going in the beginning. However I just knew that this story would deliver in the end. Original and heartwarming. Just envision a house full of misfits that somehow heal each other's broken souls. 🥰
"I learned the best way to keep from getting hurt is to expect nothing."
Single mother, Stella has just inherited her Nanna's house. A little overwhelmed with the whole scenario, it's her friend Pen that encourages Stella to take on additional borders. And before she knows it, her new home is filled with:
* Stella and her 4 year old Maisie
* Her Brother Tyler recovering from a head injury
* Pen her Witchy Best Friend
* Nina an Abused Girl on the run
* Livy the activist with an axe to grind
* Lark a geologist nerd and unassuming hero
Let me tell you, the mix worked perfectly. As all these strangers settle into this arrangement, tentative friendships begin to form. As Stella is fiercely independent and shoulders a lot of responsibility, she finds it difficult to accept help, especially from Lark.
There was this amazing contrast between Stella and Lark that I adored. Lark was younger, a pillar of strength and completely opposed to marriage. Whereas Stella knows abandonment and disappointment firsthand and is completely off men.
Slowly these two make liars of each other. The chip on their shoulders begins to ease and the sexual tension seeps through. The was romance swoony and delicious. I'm starting to realize that this author knows exactly what she's doing!!
I have to admit the Dream House was a little slow going in the beginning. However I just knew that this story would deliver in the end. Original and heartwarming. Just envision a house full of misfits that somehow heal each other's broken souls. 🥰
"I learned the best way to keep from getting hurt is to expect nothing."
Single mother, Stella has just inherited her Nanna's house. A little overwhelmed with the whole scenario, it's her friend Pen that encourages Stella to take on additional borders. And before she knows it, her new home is filled with:
* Stella and her 4 year old Maisie
* Her Brother Tyler recovering from a head injury
* Pen her Witchy Best Friend
* Nina an Abused Girl on the run
* Livy the activist with an axe to grind
* Lark a geologist nerd and unassuming hero
Let me tell you, the mix worked perfectly. As all these strangers settle into this arrangement, tentative friendships begin to form. As Stella is fiercely independent and shoulders a lot of responsibility, she finds it difficult to accept help, especially from Lark.
There was this amazing contrast between Stella and Lark that I adored. Lark was younger, a pillar of strength and completely opposed to marriage. Whereas Stella knows abandonment and disappointment firsthand and is completely off men.
Slowly these two make liars of each other. The chip on their shoulders begins to ease and the sexual tension seeps through. The was romance swoony and delicious. I'm starting to realize that this author knows exactly what she's doing!!
September 6, 2024
This book is one that will get your heart pounding. Be warm for triggers though. I wish book two was on Audible because it leaves us hanging, so if cliffhangers aren’t your thing be forewarned. There is a lot going on in this book, with deep emotions, personal trauma, laughter and dark energies. I give this book overall 5 stars, because the chemistry between Stella and Lark isn’t the only thing that makes this book worth reading. The overall feel and story of all the characters involved makes this story one that will touch your heart, make you laugh and scare the crap out of you.
I am not normally a woman that likes books with a little bit of suspense (thriller in nature not romantic) but this one hits all the right spots! Again, ask about triggers, because there are a few and I don’t want anyone having a reaction to them!
The spice is a nice and slightly steamy 🌶️🌶️ two peppers. Only a couple of spices scenes and both not that intense. For those that read other steamy books it’ll be mild, but for those not use to spice. It’ll get your toes a little wet.
I can’t wait for the next book!
Hope this helps you find your next,
Tantalizing Tome.
#tantalizingtomes #hoodieslut #audible #audiblebooks #romanticsuspense #romancebooks #stephaniefournet #stephaniefournetbooks #dreamhouse #dreamhousebook #louisiana #singlemomromance #agegapromance #reverseagegapromance #kindle #kindlebooks #triggerwarningromance #triggerwarnings #cliffhanger #cliffhangerromance
I am not normally a woman that likes books with a little bit of suspense (thriller in nature not romantic) but this one hits all the right spots! Again, ask about triggers, because there are a few and I don’t want anyone having a reaction to them!
The spice is a nice and slightly steamy 🌶️🌶️ two peppers. Only a couple of spices scenes and both not that intense. For those that read other steamy books it’ll be mild, but for those not use to spice. It’ll get your toes a little wet.
I can’t wait for the next book!
Hope this helps you find your next,
Tantalizing Tome.
#tantalizingtomes #hoodieslut #audible #audiblebooks #romanticsuspense #romancebooks #stephaniefournet #stephaniefournetbooks #dreamhouse #dreamhousebook #louisiana #singlemomromance #agegapromance #reverseagegapromance #kindle #kindlebooks #triggerwarningromance #triggerwarnings #cliffhanger #cliffhangerromance
October 24, 2023
2.5 stars rounded up. This was my least favorite Stephanie Fournet book I have read so far.
The "Found Family" trope is one of my favorites and it was written well to same extent. I liked Stella as a character, but despite my usual fondness for different and interesting characters, I found her best friend and resident witch Pen to be awkward and annoying.
Stella's daughter Maisy and Lark's nephew Grayson were soo adorable, and Lark was an alright character on his own, but the romance was forced, and lackluster, even boring for me. I just wasn't convinced that a 23-year-old college senior could be everything a 28-year-old single mother looks for in a man and in a relationship. It may be the case for a differen couple, but this couple failed to convince me.
I also didn't like Lark' comments on marriage and religion. I can understand that he doesn't believe in marriage and that he isn't much of a believer in general, but these issues are highly sensitive and equally subjective, so I don't like them being discussed.
All that said, Stella's brain-damaged brother Tyler and her domestic violance victim tenant Nina were such lovely characters and their hesitant romance touches something in my heart, which is why I decided to round up my rating, and why I decided to read the second book of this duology as soon as I can get my hand on it.
The "Found Family" trope is one of my favorites and it was written well to same extent. I liked Stella as a character, but despite my usual fondness for different and interesting characters, I found her best friend and resident witch Pen to be awkward and annoying.
Stella's daughter Maisy and Lark's nephew Grayson were soo adorable, and Lark was an alright character on his own, but the romance was forced, and lackluster, even boring for me. I just wasn't convinced that a 23-year-old college senior could be everything a 28-year-old single mother looks for in a man and in a relationship. It may be the case for a differen couple, but this couple failed to convince me.
I also didn't like Lark' comments on marriage and religion. I can understand that he doesn't believe in marriage and that he isn't much of a believer in general, but these issues are highly sensitive and equally subjective, so I don't like them being discussed.
All that said, Stella's brain-damaged brother Tyler and her domestic violance victim tenant Nina were such lovely characters and their hesitant romance touches something in my heart, which is why I decided to round up my rating, and why I decided to read the second book of this duology as soon as I can get my hand on it.
January 18, 2022
This book was magic. I love and admire the author's style of writing, her prose, even her similes.
The concept of this house becoming a haven for this bunch of "misfits" enthralled me. Reminded how special it is to create your own family and to be open to new experiences and new people.
I admired Stella's drive and watching her grow into herself after being so unsure of what she was capable of. Then comes Lark. Stephanie writes the best male characters. I adored him and his knowledge of geology. I usually prefer older man younger woman age gap, I found it fun and refreshing that Stella was older than Lark and a single mother.
My favorite characters are Pen and Tyler. I am a huge lover of spirituality and tarot reading... Pen was such a bundle of witchy intuitive awesomeness and I'm so happy that this book is first in a series. It was really unique to read about the metaphysical stuff, but I loved every second of it.
Read this book. I highly recommend it. It's sweet and fun and even a little thrilling. AND THE COVER!!! The cover is gorgeous. That alone was reason enough for me to read this book. :)
The concept of this house becoming a haven for this bunch of "misfits" enthralled me. Reminded how special it is to create your own family and to be open to new experiences and new people.
I admired Stella's drive and watching her grow into herself after being so unsure of what she was capable of. Then comes Lark. Stephanie writes the best male characters. I adored him and his knowledge of geology. I usually prefer older man younger woman age gap, I found it fun and refreshing that Stella was older than Lark and a single mother.
My favorite characters are Pen and Tyler. I am a huge lover of spirituality and tarot reading... Pen was such a bundle of witchy intuitive awesomeness and I'm so happy that this book is first in a series. It was really unique to read about the metaphysical stuff, but I loved every second of it.
Read this book. I highly recommend it. It's sweet and fun and even a little thrilling. AND THE COVER!!! The cover is gorgeous. That alone was reason enough for me to read this book. :)
April 30, 2025
I actually liked this much more than I thought I would. The set up: Stella, a struggling single mother, inherits her grandmother's large house in Louisiana and decides to take on roommates to make it all work. Stella's brother, her best friend Pen, and a handful of others (including Lark, the love interest) move in and propel the plot forward. So far, so good. The thing that jarred me out of the story again and again was Lark's age (23) vs. Stella's (28) -- I'm not against an age gap in either direction, BUT your average 23 year-old college kid is hardly going to be empathetic, insightful, good with small children, and (good heavens) eventually self-aware. Had the author made him an even slightly older grad or PhD student, the character would have made more sense. This bothered me throughout the book. That said, the characters were fun-quirky, the 4 year-old daughter was a delight, and I enjoyed this book far more than expected.
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