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Warrior Women #1
California Promises
When your best friend becomes the biggest ‘what if’ of your life.
Charlie Sands isn’t interested in the Feminine Game, but her roommate Bex is determined to win it. The Summer Goal: Find husbands, get married by spring, and start having matching babies. It’s a ridiculous plan, especially since Charlie’s heart has been safely tucked behind a decade-long friendship with Greyson Steele, the hero firefighter who insists she’s like a sister to him.
Greyson Steele is ruggedly handsome, charming, and exactly the kind of man who makes a platonic friendship feel dangerous in all the right ways. For years, they’ve respected the rules, taken the friends label seriously, and managed to make each other feel safer than they have in years.
But when they jet off to Maui for Charlie to star as a leading lady in an indie film, the Half-Foot Rule starts to feel like a mile-wide chasm. From the beaches of Del Mar to the waterfalls of the Maui, Charlie and Grey must face their deepest traumas to realize that sometimes getting lost in friendship is the only way to be found.
In a flirty, friends-to-more romance about a brilliant, surfing tomboy and her anxious, fireman best-friend, Erin Spineto spins another “Inspiring tale of being just the right balance of strong and vulnerable.” California Promises is a witty, heart-tugging friends-to-more romance perfect for fans of Abby Jimenez who want a little less heat.
Charlie Sands isn’t interested in the Feminine Game, but her roommate Bex is determined to win it. The Summer Goal: Find husbands, get married by spring, and start having matching babies. It’s a ridiculous plan, especially since Charlie’s heart has been safely tucked behind a decade-long friendship with Greyson Steele, the hero firefighter who insists she’s like a sister to him.
Greyson Steele is ruggedly handsome, charming, and exactly the kind of man who makes a platonic friendship feel dangerous in all the right ways. For years, they’ve respected the rules, taken the friends label seriously, and managed to make each other feel safer than they have in years.
But when they jet off to Maui for Charlie to star as a leading lady in an indie film, the Half-Foot Rule starts to feel like a mile-wide chasm. From the beaches of Del Mar to the waterfalls of the Maui, Charlie and Grey must face their deepest traumas to realize that sometimes getting lost in friendship is the only way to be found.
In a flirty, friends-to-more romance about a brilliant, surfing tomboy and her anxious, fireman best-friend, Erin Spineto spins another “Inspiring tale of being just the right balance of strong and vulnerable.” California Promises is a witty, heart-tugging friends-to-more romance perfect for fans of Abby Jimenez who want a little less heat.
- GenresRomanceFriends To Lovers
416 pages, Paperback
First published June 4, 2021
About the author
Erin Spineto
8 books46 followersErin Spineto is the mind behind Surf Kisses, a closed-door, beachy romance series packed with bold, wave-riding women with type 1 diabetes who juggle perfect waves, swoony surfers, and the kind of wild ocean adventures that make for the best stories.
A lifelong adventurer and type 1 diabetes advocate, Erin has spent the last three decades ignoring perfectly reasonable medical advice by tackling thrilling endurance expeditions like a solo 100-mile sail through the Florida Keys and team swims and paddle expeditions with other delightfully stubborn T1D athletes who also believe “boring” is a far scarier diagnosis than diabetes.
When she isn’t writing her next swoony surfing love story, Erin has a love affair with empty beaches, warm water, and a post-surf lunch of fish tacos and Diet Dr Pepper on a sun-drenched patio with her own real life hero, Tony, and their two surfing children.
Join my newsletter for beachy updates and diabetes-friendly adventure stories here-->https://erinspineto.eo.page/saltiesscoop
A lifelong adventurer and type 1 diabetes advocate, Erin has spent the last three decades ignoring perfectly reasonable medical advice by tackling thrilling endurance expeditions like a solo 100-mile sail through the Florida Keys and team swims and paddle expeditions with other delightfully stubborn T1D athletes who also believe “boring” is a far scarier diagnosis than diabetes.
When she isn’t writing her next swoony surfing love story, Erin has a love affair with empty beaches, warm water, and a post-surf lunch of fish tacos and Diet Dr Pepper on a sun-drenched patio with her own real life hero, Tony, and their two surfing children.
Join my newsletter for beachy updates and diabetes-friendly adventure stories here-->https://erinspineto.eo.page/saltiesscoop
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
July 30, 2026
I’ve always maintained that type 1 Diabetes and insulin-dependent diabetics need more representation in adult fiction. There are plenty of children’s and young adult books on the market, but other than Rose in Sally Hepworth’s ‘The Good Sister’ and Maeve in Ann Patchett’s ‘the Dutch House’, I haven’t come across too many others with this condition let alone narratives that mention it in almost every chapter. I find this odd, seeing as there are approximately 2M people living with type 1 diabetes in the USA and approximately 300,000 Canadians.
You can imagine how excited I was to find an author who lives with this condition and writes closed-door (not Christian) romance. The first thing I noticed was that Spineto’s portrayal of type 1 Diabetes adds an element of realism to her story that’s both accurate and respectful. Readers see how Charlie Sands (a single 20ish woman) handles her highs and lows, her relationship with exercise, and how this condition affects her eating and drinking habits. I loved the touch of humour she brought to living with an insulin pump.
Charlie and her bff of 12 years, Greyson Steele, have learned to dodge potential ‘situationship’ romantic situations by adhering to a set of rules they established early in their friendship, but readers know that the wall they’ve built must come down at some point. I loved the journey to that eventuality! These ‘Poe friends’ have such chemistry and are so deep in denial that it makes for an addictive read. The flirty behaviour is well-written!
Charlie is one of my favourite FMC because I identify with her on so many levels. What I’ll remember most is (1) her outlook to living with this condition, (2) how much blossoms after underestimating herself for so very long and (3) the freedom she experiences when she’s willing to throw out the rule book.
My only disappointments would be some of the language choices and intimacy innuendos that were bordering on too descriptive for my comfort. Yes, it’s closed door, but the hallway to get there has potholes and road bumps!!!! Keep this in mind; it’s low spice, not no spice.
You can imagine how excited I was to find an author who lives with this condition and writes closed-door (not Christian) romance. The first thing I noticed was that Spineto’s portrayal of type 1 Diabetes adds an element of realism to her story that’s both accurate and respectful. Readers see how Charlie Sands (a single 20ish woman) handles her highs and lows, her relationship with exercise, and how this condition affects her eating and drinking habits. I loved the touch of humour she brought to living with an insulin pump.
Charlie and her bff of 12 years, Greyson Steele, have learned to dodge potential ‘situationship’ romantic situations by adhering to a set of rules they established early in their friendship, but readers know that the wall they’ve built must come down at some point. I loved the journey to that eventuality! These ‘Poe friends’ have such chemistry and are so deep in denial that it makes for an addictive read. The flirty behaviour is well-written!
Charlie is one of my favourite FMC because I identify with her on so many levels. What I’ll remember most is (1) her outlook to living with this condition, (2) how much blossoms after underestimating herself for so very long and (3) the freedom she experiences when she’s willing to throw out the rule book.
My only disappointments would be some of the language choices and intimacy innuendos that were bordering on too descriptive for my comfort. Yes, it’s closed door, but the hallway to get there has potholes and road bumps!!!! Keep this in mind; it’s low spice, not no spice.
July 4, 2022
A perfect summer read about navigating the difficulties of friendship, love, and figuring yourself out. Tomboy Charlie has always been one of the boys, never putting too much importance into being up with fashion and makeup, instead choosing to have fun surfing and spending her time on the beach. Her best friend, Greyson, is a firefighter who is a pillar of support for Charlie. He's always there when she's in uncomfortable situations, he assists her with her diabetes needs, and unbeknownst to her, he has been crazy about her for most of their friendship. Charlie tries to figure out where she and Greyson stand after a friend's wedding and the filming of the movie while also dealing with her horrible environment at her job and her rocky friendship with gaslighting Bex.
This friends-to-lovers story was a good comedy that had characters that were authentic and so very relatable. Greyson, Charlie, and Indigo felt friends. They had senses of humor and human failings and worked through their issues in believable ways. That, paired with workable, believable dialogue, made a book that was easy to keep reading. California Promises was enjoyable, emotion-provoking, and diverse. Having the representation of characters with diabetes and the authentic problems they deal with in their everyday lives made for an inclusive book. In the end, having characters like Greyson and Charlie, with all their flaws, diversity, and behaviors, helped set up a book that was enjoyable, easy to read, and perfect for a vacation read.
This friends-to-lovers story was a good comedy that had characters that were authentic and so very relatable. Greyson, Charlie, and Indigo felt friends. They had senses of humor and human failings and worked through their issues in believable ways. That, paired with workable, believable dialogue, made a book that was easy to keep reading. California Promises was enjoyable, emotion-provoking, and diverse. Having the representation of characters with diabetes and the authentic problems they deal with in their everyday lives made for an inclusive book. In the end, having characters like Greyson and Charlie, with all their flaws, diversity, and behaviors, helped set up a book that was enjoyable, easy to read, and perfect for a vacation read.
August 5, 2026
I couldn’t finish this book. I tried. I read it for over two weeks, and only got half way. This book desperately needs a good editor. The storyline is there, and has a lot of potential. However, there are tons of plot holes, to the point where half the time I didn’t even understand what was happening. Also, the spelling, grammar and punctuation needs help. The author went into way too much detail on the most random things, but then not enough on things that mattered. Things felt dragged out, and lots of things were over complicated. Thank you for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 1, 2023
A perfect summer read about navigating the difficulties of friendship, love, and figuring yourself out. Tomboy Charlie has always been one of the boys, never putting too much importance into being up with fashion and makeup, instead choosing to have fun surfing and spending her time on the beach. Her best friend, Greyson, is a firefighter who is a pillar of support for Charlie. He's always there when she's in uncomfortable situations, he assists her with her diabetes needs, and unbeknownst to her, he has been crazy about her for most of their friendship. Charlie tries to figure out where she and Greyson stand after a friend's wedding and the filming of the movie while also dealing with her horrible environment at her job and her rocky friendship with gaslighting Bex.
This friends-to-lovers story was a good comedy that had characters that were authentic and so very relatable. Greyson, Charlie, and Indigo felt friends. They had senses of humor and human failings and worked through their issues in believable ways. That, paired with workable, believable dialogue, made a book that was easy to keep reading. California Promises was enjoyable, emotion-provoking, and diverse. Having the representation of characters with diabetes and the authentic problems they deal with in their everyday lives made for an inclusive book. In the end, having characters like Greyson and Charlie, with all their flaws, diversity, and behaviors, helped set up a book that was enjoyable, easy to read, and perfect for a vacation read.
This friends-to-lovers story was a good comedy that had characters that were authentic and so very relatable. Greyson, Charlie, and Indigo felt friends. They had senses of humor and human failings and worked through their issues in believable ways. That, paired with workable, believable dialogue, made a book that was easy to keep reading. California Promises was enjoyable, emotion-provoking, and diverse. Having the representation of characters with diabetes and the authentic problems they deal with in their everyday lives made for an inclusive book. In the end, having characters like Greyson and Charlie, with all their flaws, diversity, and behaviors, helped set up a book that was enjoyable, easy to read, and perfect for a vacation read.
August 17, 2026
#Review: *California Promises* - Erin Spineto - ARC
4/5✨
0/5🌶️
Charlie has never been interested in pampering herself, feeling right just the way she was, even if sometimes she considered herself a tomboy. She wasn't thrilled in searching that right guy to be with, but that's not what her roommate and friend, Bex, had in mind, being determined to find themselves some nice guys with whom they'll be able to share all the beautiful experiences at once, such as getting married or having kids. Only for Charlie there was a single guy who made her feel butterflies in her stomach and that was her longtime friend, firefighter Grayson Steele. After such a long time of friendship, something started to shift between them when they went to beautiful Maui, where Charlie was playing the leading role in an indie film. Their feelings were being challenged by everything that was happening there, but that was a place which also brought to surface some old traumas, which were still having a great impact on them. Will Charlie and Grey continue with their safe friendship or will they risk it all and try to be more?
This story was a really relaxing and inspiring read! Charlie and Grayson have kept my interest peaked because of their continuous low flirting, one which they tried to hide in order to save their friendship. That slow burn was insane and I was invested in their story, curious to find out more about their feelings and how it all started. This story had many things to learn from, like the fact that you should go with what you feel and not with what someone else tells you, just like Charlie's friend, Bex, was doing. She was constantly in Charlie's business when it came to dating, finding that a bit too much and too pushy, because she never respected Charlie's tastes and believed she always knew better. Their friendship was a bit toxic, but I was glad that Charlie had Grayson, even if their own friendship was put to test when they couldn't contain the feelings which were bubbling inside them.
I had a nice time reading this book, being a cute, summer vibey and inspiring story, about a sweet friendship which hid a lot more than it met the eye.
Thank you so much Erin for considering me to read this e-ARC! 🤗 Super grateful for the opportunity!!💗💗
✨Tropes
▫️Best Friends To More
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Closed Door Romance
▫️Reformed Playboy
▫️Summer Vibes
▫️He Falls Harder
▫️Banter
▫️Firefighter
4/5✨
0/5🌶️
Charlie has never been interested in pampering herself, feeling right just the way she was, even if sometimes she considered herself a tomboy. She wasn't thrilled in searching that right guy to be with, but that's not what her roommate and friend, Bex, had in mind, being determined to find themselves some nice guys with whom they'll be able to share all the beautiful experiences at once, such as getting married or having kids. Only for Charlie there was a single guy who made her feel butterflies in her stomach and that was her longtime friend, firefighter Grayson Steele. After such a long time of friendship, something started to shift between them when they went to beautiful Maui, where Charlie was playing the leading role in an indie film. Their feelings were being challenged by everything that was happening there, but that was a place which also brought to surface some old traumas, which were still having a great impact on them. Will Charlie and Grey continue with their safe friendship or will they risk it all and try to be more?
This story was a really relaxing and inspiring read! Charlie and Grayson have kept my interest peaked because of their continuous low flirting, one which they tried to hide in order to save their friendship. That slow burn was insane and I was invested in their story, curious to find out more about their feelings and how it all started. This story had many things to learn from, like the fact that you should go with what you feel and not with what someone else tells you, just like Charlie's friend, Bex, was doing. She was constantly in Charlie's business when it came to dating, finding that a bit too much and too pushy, because she never respected Charlie's tastes and believed she always knew better. Their friendship was a bit toxic, but I was glad that Charlie had Grayson, even if their own friendship was put to test when they couldn't contain the feelings which were bubbling inside them.
I had a nice time reading this book, being a cute, summer vibey and inspiring story, about a sweet friendship which hid a lot more than it met the eye.
Thank you so much Erin for considering me to read this e-ARC! 🤗 Super grateful for the opportunity!!💗💗
✨Tropes
▫️Best Friends To More
▫️Slow Burn
▫️Closed Door Romance
▫️Reformed Playboy
▫️Summer Vibes
▫️He Falls Harder
▫️Banter
▫️Firefighter
April 20, 2022
I enjoyed reading this will-they-or-won’t-they romantic comedy. The characters are very well-written and relatable, and the plot is solid and believable. The story alternates between the voice of the two main characters, which gives the reader more insight into each character and makes it a breeze to consume the book.
Charlie is a coder by trade and a surfer by passion, with a strong independent streak and an unwavering moral code. Greyson is a firefighter with less confidence than he should have, given his good looks, intelligence, and fierce loyalty to his best friend, Charlie. Both Greyson and Charlie grow throughout the book; Greyson studies and applies to become a fire chief, and Charlie expands both her career ambitions and her social life. Both dance around the fact that their friendship is turning into something more, which we see in scenes set in beautiful San Diego and Maui. Everyone will find a character they can relate to in this romance, and it was enjoyable reading.
I appreciate how Charlie has type-1 diabetes. This was not the focus of the book, but did come up several times as Charlie’s glucose monitor beeped alerts. I found it particularly touching how Greyson carried around emergency supplies at all times to help Charlie when her levels were dangerously off. There is an excellent resource section at the end of the book dedicated to diabetes education.
I especially liked how there is a link to an online epilogue, and playlists developed based on the music in the book (which you can access via QR codes). This author really invested herself in her book and writing, and it shows.I can’t wait for the other books in the series to come out.
Charlie is a coder by trade and a surfer by passion, with a strong independent streak and an unwavering moral code. Greyson is a firefighter with less confidence than he should have, given his good looks, intelligence, and fierce loyalty to his best friend, Charlie. Both Greyson and Charlie grow throughout the book; Greyson studies and applies to become a fire chief, and Charlie expands both her career ambitions and her social life. Both dance around the fact that their friendship is turning into something more, which we see in scenes set in beautiful San Diego and Maui. Everyone will find a character they can relate to in this romance, and it was enjoyable reading.
I appreciate how Charlie has type-1 diabetes. This was not the focus of the book, but did come up several times as Charlie’s glucose monitor beeped alerts. I found it particularly touching how Greyson carried around emergency supplies at all times to help Charlie when her levels were dangerously off. There is an excellent resource section at the end of the book dedicated to diabetes education.
I especially liked how there is a link to an online epilogue, and playlists developed based on the music in the book (which you can access via QR codes). This author really invested herself in her book and writing, and it shows.I can’t wait for the other books in the series to come out.
September 16, 2022
It took me quite a while to get round to reading this book but I’m glad I did! Once I started I couldn’t stop. I mean it has friends to lovers, one bed trope, he falls first and multiple POVs.
It’s a great summer read and the characters are enjoyable. I love how Charlie’s diabetes was present throughout the story but wasn’t made the entire plot. We love representation! I didn’t like the constant miscommunication between the two it just seemed repetitive and not even necessary but I still did enjoy their pining and their love story.
Thank you to NetGalley for my ebook copy
It’s a great summer read and the characters are enjoyable. I love how Charlie’s diabetes was present throughout the story but wasn’t made the entire plot. We love representation! I didn’t like the constant miscommunication between the two it just seemed repetitive and not even necessary but I still did enjoy their pining and their love story.
Thank you to NetGalley for my ebook copy
July 9, 2022
A summer read about friendship, love, and self-discovery.
An adorable and frustrating romcom about friends who became lovers. I find this story a little complicated, but you might like it if you are a fan of a complex friends-lovers trope.
Thank you, NetGalley, Publisher, and Author, for the eARC in exchange for my honest review
An adorable and frustrating romcom about friends who became lovers. I find this story a little complicated, but you might like it if you are a fan of a complex friends-lovers trope.
Thank you, NetGalley, Publisher, and Author, for the eARC in exchange for my honest review
August 2, 2026
ARC READ
RTC
RTC
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝙈𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙡𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝙧𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 :(
2/5 ☆ | 1/5 🌶 | Steamy Closed-Door Romance ┈➤ˎˊ˗ 𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝑮𝒖𝒊𝒅𝒆
‧₊˚♪ 𝄞₊˚⊹𝑺𝒑𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒚 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕‧₊˚♪ 𝄞₊˚⊹
01:23 ━━━━●───── 03:43
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓠𝓾𝓲𝓬𝓴 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
Charlie Sands is a software developer working at a tech company in a male-dominated environment, where she constantly deals with misogynistic remarks and workplace harassment. She also has type 1 diabetes but refuses to let it define her, spending her free time at the beach and surfing whenever she can. Moreover, she has no interest in fashion, makeup, or dating, which is why her toxic roommate constantly criticizes her for being a tomboy, leaving Charlie feeling insecure that she isn't like other girls. However, she also has real friends, especially Greyson Steele, a hot firefighter who struggles with his own anxiety but never fails to support her. He always remembers to carry her emergency diabetes supplies, just in case she ever needs them. So, after a destination wedding trip and a film shoot, Charlie realizes she's falling for him. But the problem is that she doesn't want to risk losing that one genuine friendship she's built over the years. Now, she regrets her own rule book, the list of rules she created years ago to friend-zone him and protect this relationship. Somewhat, Charlie is convinced her feelings are one-sided, but what she doesn't know is that Greyson has secretly been in love with her since the day they met and he's already been wanting to throw that rulebook away for a long time.
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
⋆.𐙚 ̊ friends to lovers
⋆.𐙚 ̊ mutual pining
⋆.𐙚 ̊ female tomboy
⋆.𐙚 ̊ surf and sand
⋆.𐙚 ̊ diabetes rep
⋆.𐙚 ̊ toxic friendship
⋆.𐙚 ̊ miscommunication
⋆.𐙚 ̊ only one bed
⋆.𐙚 ̊ slow burn
⋆.𐙚 ̊ he falls first
⋆.𐙚 ̊ film shoot
⋆.𐙚 ̊ friend’s wedding
⋆.𐙚 ̊ software developer FMC
⋆.𐙚 ̊ firefighter MMC
⋆.𐙚 ̊ beach setting
⋆.𐙚 ̊ Del Mar, San Diego, California
⋆.𐙚 ̊ Maui, Hawaii
⋆.𐙚 ̊ dual POVs
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
This was my first-ever ARC as a Bookstagrammer that I received directly from the author, so you can imagine how excited I was to read it. But turns out, this just wasn't my taste. It was boring. Plus, it's a friends-to-lovers story, which isn't my very favorite trope. The chemistry didn't have the spark I was looking for. There were dual POVs, which I usually love, but in this case, I actually preferred having a single POV because I couldn't stand Grey's chapters. His monologues gave me an ick every time he commented on how physically attractive he found Charlie. And the amount of sexual talk was honestly too much for me as a closed-door romance reader. I mean, I could accept it if there was a fade-to-black situation, but there wasn't even that, so why all these sexual innuendos and forced heat? You can create tension without constantly bringing up physical attraction as well.
It's not like I don't read open-door romances, but you know, if I am picking a closed-door romance, I expect some cleaner chemistry, a little flirting here and there, and, most importantly, an emotional connection rather than just the typical physical stuff. And even if the author is going to include physical attraction, I want it balanced with an actual connection between the characters. Unfortunately, this book didn't give me that balance. Despite being labelled as closed-door, it didn't really have that closed-door vibe. Also, I can't exactly say it isn't closed-door because, technically, it is, but the language and overall tone of the story... I don't know. There was just WAY too much lust for my liking. I mean, I could've rate it higher if the author had shown us more cute and lovely moments between Charlie and Grey, but I think they hardly spent enough time together. I've read Cheat Sheet, and it has almost the same trope... high sexual tension in a closed-door romance. But, I still ended up liking that one because there was so much going on between the characters besides that physical attraction thing. I just didn't like the way this book was written. There were so many filler moments that actually had no connection with the plot. And the way the timeline kept moving forward with huge gaps also killed my interest.
The story was more focused on Charlie's work life and her toxic friend Bex, whom I absolutely HATED. So I guess that's where the author successfully got me... I mean, at least she made me feel something towards the characters. I also kind of relate to Charlie because I had to deal with some toxic friends once in my life too, and I know how they try to make you feel inferior, how they try to kill your own personality, and expect you to fit into something you're not comfortable with. These people are NOT friends, they are red flags :(
Bex here basically forced Charlie to wear clothes that she wasn't comfortable in. She was patronizing, always judging Charlie for being a tomboy, as if there is something wrong with not wanting to wear girly clothes, makeup, and all that. She also seemed to think that not having a love life was some kind of crime, which is why she was practically throwing herself at guys who weren't even worthy of her. And on top of that, she was trying to force Charlie to do the same by making her wear sexy clothes just to impress guys. It was ridiculous. She was stupid to think that she could actually find someone when she's just building the foundation on lust. I hated this concept because, first of all, you don't have to be so desperate for love because love will find you when it's the right time. You don't have to search for it. Also, there is no need to feel insecure about it. Charlie was, yes, a pretty normal person, but she was also somewhat affected by this.
I mean, it's OKAY to be single. It's NOT shameful, and it's completely OKAY to have a life goal other than finding love. That's probably why the only character I genuinely liked in this book was Indigo. I neither liked Grey nor Bex. Indigo was the most positive character. Her life was sorted. Also, she was a filmmaker, so I kind of related to her as I'm also a communication student.
I liked how she supported Charlie when she needed good advice. Plus, I really liked her dialogues. They had such a unique style.
I also liked how the author showed Charlie as a diabetic patient because you don't see that represented in books very often. Anyway, I did rate this book lower because, honestly, nothing particularly memorable happened in the story itself, especially when it came to the main characters. For the side characters, yes, I will remember Bex because I have never hated a character that much. She just pissed me off completely. And Indigo... she was such a positive character, and maybe I would love to read her story if it ever comes out. I also feel a little bad because leaving a bad review after getting a free copy is really so hard. I mean, I wanted to rate it higher, but sorry, I just write honest reviews, and that is it. I can't lie about how I feel. Also, it's all about taste. I didn't like this book, but someone might like it. So no hate for the author.
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿𝓸𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓮 𝓟𝓪𝓻𝓽𝓼 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
‧₊˚🌷༉‧₊˚. Grey and Charlie having their one-bed moment
‧₊˚🌷༉‧₊˚. Grey choosing to stop and wait until their wedding just because Charlie likes it that way
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓞𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓢𝓲𝓶𝓲𝓵𝓪𝓻 𝓑𝓸𝓸𝓴𝓼, 𝓜𝓸𝓿𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝓸𝓻 𝓓𝓻𝓪𝓶𝓪𝓼 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
‧₊˚📖⋆˚࿔ ˎˊ˗ Beach Read by Emily Henry | 3.5/5
‧₊˚📖⋆˚࿔ ˎˊ˗ Cheat Sheet by Sarah Adams | 4/5
ᯓ :ִ ࣪✮ ݁∶ ᯓ :ִ ࣪✧ ݁∶ᯓ :ִ ࣪✩ ݁∶⊹˖ᯓ⭑ :ִ ࣪✮ ݁∶ ᯓ :ִ ࣪✧ ݁∶ᯓ :ִ ࣪✩ ݁∶⊹˖ᯓ
𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙧: 𝙄 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣 𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬.
ᯓ :ִ ࣪✮ ݁∶ ᯓ :ִ ࣪✧ ݁∶ᯓ :ִ ࣪✩ ݁∶⊹˖ᯓ⭑ :ִ ࣪✮ ݁∶ ᯓ :ִ ࣪✧ ݁∶ᯓ :ִ ࣪✩ ݁∶⊹˖ᯓ
⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒏 𝑰𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒎 ˗ˏˋ★‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹
2/5 ☆ | 1/5 🌶 | Steamy Closed-Door Romance ┈➤ˎˊ˗ 𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝑮𝒖𝒊𝒅𝒆
‧₊˚♪ 𝄞₊˚⊹𝑺𝒑𝒐𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒚 𝑷𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕‧₊˚♪ 𝄞₊˚⊹
01:23 ━━━━●───── 03:43
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓠𝓾𝓲𝓬𝓴 𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
Charlie Sands is a software developer working at a tech company in a male-dominated environment, where she constantly deals with misogynistic remarks and workplace harassment. She also has type 1 diabetes but refuses to let it define her, spending her free time at the beach and surfing whenever she can. Moreover, she has no interest in fashion, makeup, or dating, which is why her toxic roommate constantly criticizes her for being a tomboy, leaving Charlie feeling insecure that she isn't like other girls. However, she also has real friends, especially Greyson Steele, a hot firefighter who struggles with his own anxiety but never fails to support her. He always remembers to carry her emergency diabetes supplies, just in case she ever needs them. So, after a destination wedding trip and a film shoot, Charlie realizes she's falling for him. But the problem is that she doesn't want to risk losing that one genuine friendship she's built over the years. Now, she regrets her own rule book, the list of rules she created years ago to friend-zone him and protect this relationship. Somewhat, Charlie is convinced her feelings are one-sided, but what she doesn't know is that Greyson has secretly been in love with her since the day they met and he's already been wanting to throw that rulebook away for a long time.
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
⋆.𐙚 ̊ friends to lovers
⋆.𐙚 ̊ mutual pining
⋆.𐙚 ̊ female tomboy
⋆.𐙚 ̊ surf and sand
⋆.𐙚 ̊ diabetes rep
⋆.𐙚 ̊ toxic friendship
⋆.𐙚 ̊ miscommunication
⋆.𐙚 ̊ only one bed
⋆.𐙚 ̊ slow burn
⋆.𐙚 ̊ he falls first
⋆.𐙚 ̊ film shoot
⋆.𐙚 ̊ friend’s wedding
⋆.𐙚 ̊ software developer FMC
⋆.𐙚 ̊ firefighter MMC
⋆.𐙚 ̊ beach setting
⋆.𐙚 ̊ Del Mar, San Diego, California
⋆.𐙚 ̊ Maui, Hawaii
⋆.𐙚 ̊ dual POVs
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
This was my first-ever ARC as a Bookstagrammer that I received directly from the author, so you can imagine how excited I was to read it. But turns out, this just wasn't my taste. It was boring. Plus, it's a friends-to-lovers story, which isn't my very favorite trope. The chemistry didn't have the spark I was looking for. There were dual POVs, which I usually love, but in this case, I actually preferred having a single POV because I couldn't stand Grey's chapters. His monologues gave me an ick every time he commented on how physically attractive he found Charlie. And the amount of sexual talk was honestly too much for me as a closed-door romance reader. I mean, I could accept it if there was a fade-to-black situation, but there wasn't even that, so why all these sexual innuendos and forced heat? You can create tension without constantly bringing up physical attraction as well.
It's not like I don't read open-door romances, but you know, if I am picking a closed-door romance, I expect some cleaner chemistry, a little flirting here and there, and, most importantly, an emotional connection rather than just the typical physical stuff. And even if the author is going to include physical attraction, I want it balanced with an actual connection between the characters. Unfortunately, this book didn't give me that balance. Despite being labelled as closed-door, it didn't really have that closed-door vibe. Also, I can't exactly say it isn't closed-door because, technically, it is, but the language and overall tone of the story... I don't know. There was just WAY too much lust for my liking. I mean, I could've rate it higher if the author had shown us more cute and lovely moments between Charlie and Grey, but I think they hardly spent enough time together. I've read Cheat Sheet, and it has almost the same trope... high sexual tension in a closed-door romance. But, I still ended up liking that one because there was so much going on between the characters besides that physical attraction thing. I just didn't like the way this book was written. There were so many filler moments that actually had no connection with the plot. And the way the timeline kept moving forward with huge gaps also killed my interest.
The story was more focused on Charlie's work life and her toxic friend Bex, whom I absolutely HATED. So I guess that's where the author successfully got me... I mean, at least she made me feel something towards the characters. I also kind of relate to Charlie because I had to deal with some toxic friends once in my life too, and I know how they try to make you feel inferior, how they try to kill your own personality, and expect you to fit into something you're not comfortable with. These people are NOT friends, they are red flags :(
Bex lays her hand on my shoulder, patronizing. “Charlie, you are so picky.”
“It’s missing the top buttons. I can sew some on if you need,” I offer.
She laughs. “It has all its buttons, Charlie. It’s supposed to accentuate your cleavage. You have a great rack. You should show it off.”
“Bex, it’s freezing out.” I pull at the thin blouse. “Do I at least get a long jacket?”
“That’s what these are for.” She holds up a pair of black boots that have to be at least three feet tall. She actually wants me to strap myself into those.
Bex here basically forced Charlie to wear clothes that she wasn't comfortable in. She was patronizing, always judging Charlie for being a tomboy, as if there is something wrong with not wanting to wear girly clothes, makeup, and all that. She also seemed to think that not having a love life was some kind of crime, which is why she was practically throwing herself at guys who weren't even worthy of her. And on top of that, she was trying to force Charlie to do the same by making her wear sexy clothes just to impress guys. It was ridiculous. She was stupid to think that she could actually find someone when she's just building the foundation on lust. I hated this concept because, first of all, you don't have to be so desperate for love because love will find you when it's the right time. You don't have to search for it. Also, there is no need to feel insecure about it. Charlie was, yes, a pretty normal person, but she was also somewhat affected by this.
Let’s see. I have a job I hate, with people who treat me like I am brainless, no love life to speak of, and no hope of ever finding one. Hell, I can’t even figure out how to wrangle a second date with any of the dozen or so guys Bex has roped into a first date with me this summer.
Maybe Bex is right. Changing my packaging is the only way I will catch a guy. I have to use the right bait. I can always cut him loose later on if he’s not the right guy.
I mean, it's OKAY to be single. It's NOT shameful, and it's completely OKAY to have a life goal other than finding love. That's probably why the only character I genuinely liked in this book was Indigo. I neither liked Grey nor Bex. Indigo was the most positive character. Her life was sorted. Also, she was a filmmaker, so I kind of related to her as I'm also a communication student.
I’m starting to see what Charlie meant when she said Indigo has a way about her that makes you want to talk about things you’d never in a million years want to talk about.
I liked how she supported Charlie when she needed good advice. Plus, I really liked her dialogues. They had such a unique style.
“The prevailing ebb and flow between the two of you has expanded to a new wavelength since then. It went from around a 520, a cool blue, to a 590, golden yellow.”
I also liked how the author showed Charlie as a diabetic patient because you don't see that represented in books very often. Anyway, I did rate this book lower because, honestly, nothing particularly memorable happened in the story itself, especially when it came to the main characters. For the side characters, yes, I will remember Bex because I have never hated a character that much. She just pissed me off completely. And Indigo... she was such a positive character, and maybe I would love to read her story if it ever comes out. I also feel a little bad because leaving a bad review after getting a free copy is really so hard. I mean, I wanted to rate it higher, but sorry, I just write honest reviews, and that is it. I can't lie about how I feel. Also, it's all about taste. I didn't like this book, but someone might like it. So no hate for the author.
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿𝓸𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓮 𝓟𝓪𝓻𝓽𝓼 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
‧₊˚🌷༉‧₊˚. Grey and Charlie having their one-bed moment
‧₊˚🌷༉‧₊˚. Grey choosing to stop and wait until their wedding just because Charlie likes it that way
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓞𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
“I can’t wear this stupid costume any more. I feel like I’m playing dress-up in someone else’s story.”
ೃ❤⁀➷ 𝓢𝓲𝓶𝓲𝓵𝓪𝓻 𝓑𝓸𝓸𝓴𝓼, 𝓜𝓸𝓿𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝓸𝓻 𝓓𝓻𝓪𝓶𝓪𝓼 ˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚
‧₊˚📖⋆˚࿔ ˎˊ˗ Beach Read by Emily Henry | 3.5/5
‧₊˚📖⋆˚࿔ ˎˊ˗ Cheat Sheet by Sarah Adams | 4/5
ᯓ :ִ ࣪✮ ݁∶ ᯓ :ִ ࣪✧ ݁∶ᯓ :ִ ࣪✩ ݁∶⊹˖ᯓ⭑ :ִ ࣪✮ ݁∶ ᯓ :ִ ࣪✧ ݁∶ᯓ :ִ ࣪✩ ݁∶⊹˖ᯓ
𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙧: 𝙄 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣 𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬.
ᯓ :ִ ࣪✮ ݁∶ ᯓ :ִ ࣪✧ ݁∶ᯓ :ִ ࣪✩ ݁∶⊹˖ᯓ⭑ :ִ ࣪✮ ݁∶ ᯓ :ִ ࣪✧ ݁∶ᯓ :ִ ࣪✩ ݁∶⊹˖ᯓ
⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒏 𝑰𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒎 ˗ˏˋ★‿︵‧ ˚ ₊⊹
June 29, 2021
I loved that this book involved a character with Diabetes type 1 and how it was written into the story. It was a part of her life, but Charlie was more than someone with diabetes.
I think this is an excellent way for people to learn a little about diabetes and what someone who has it goes through life. It will help people understand what it is to live with diabetes.
At the end of the book was a diabetes index that explained certain things about diabetes that happened in the book, which was a great idea.
Charlie and Greyson have been friends for years, but Greyson has secretly been having feelings for his friend.
Greyson was a hot firefighter. (*fans herself). He loved Charlie and wants to be more than friends. The way he talked about her was so sweet.
Charlie is a tomboy who has her own set of rules to keep Greyson in the friend zone.
There were so many miscommunications between Greyson and Charlie. In my opinion, some were unnecessary.
At some point, I wanted them just to be open and move forward.
I liked the detailed writing style and the enormous progress both characters make during the story.
I enjoyed reading this story, it was angsty and humor-filled. Apart from that, I think everyone should read it because it is a fun way to learn something about an illness many people battle.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I think this is an excellent way for people to learn a little about diabetes and what someone who has it goes through life. It will help people understand what it is to live with diabetes.
At the end of the book was a diabetes index that explained certain things about diabetes that happened in the book, which was a great idea.
Charlie and Greyson have been friends for years, but Greyson has secretly been having feelings for his friend.
Greyson was a hot firefighter. (*fans herself). He loved Charlie and wants to be more than friends. The way he talked about her was so sweet.
Charlie is a tomboy who has her own set of rules to keep Greyson in the friend zone.
There were so many miscommunications between Greyson and Charlie. In my opinion, some were unnecessary.
At some point, I wanted them just to be open and move forward.
I liked the detailed writing style and the enormous progress both characters make during the story.
I enjoyed reading this story, it was angsty and humor-filled. Apart from that, I think everyone should read it because it is a fun way to learn something about an illness many people battle.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
July 7, 2021
I am falling in love with own voices main characters. The impact they have on my emotions is insane and this one was truly a breath of fresh air, but also do heart felt.
I love how flawed Charlie and Greyson are. They each have these little pieces that make them such believable characters because they are far from perfect. I rarely find a friends to lovers romance that I can truly get behind but the undeniable chemistry between these two and just how much they care was amazing!
Charlie has Type 1 diabetes, and as some one not very familiar, the story gives you enough information you understand her and you feel for her with out her just being a girl with diabetes. She was so much more then that and so often I have found stories where the main character has an illness or health issue and the story is so wrapped around that illness that there isn’t a story without it, and that was not the case here. I felt for these characters, their miscommunications annoyed me BUT they actually made since with the story and didn’t feel like tools to make the story progress.
I plan to continue with this series and to continue my journey of reading own voices health stories because the feels are amazing!
Thank you Spineto for giving me the chance to read your book! I can’t wait to continue. ❤️
I love how flawed Charlie and Greyson are. They each have these little pieces that make them such believable characters because they are far from perfect. I rarely find a friends to lovers romance that I can truly get behind but the undeniable chemistry between these two and just how much they care was amazing!
Charlie has Type 1 diabetes, and as some one not very familiar, the story gives you enough information you understand her and you feel for her with out her just being a girl with diabetes. She was so much more then that and so often I have found stories where the main character has an illness or health issue and the story is so wrapped around that illness that there isn’t a story without it, and that was not the case here. I felt for these characters, their miscommunications annoyed me BUT they actually made since with the story and didn’t feel like tools to make the story progress.
I plan to continue with this series and to continue my journey of reading own voices health stories because the feels are amazing!
Thank you Spineto for giving me the chance to read your book! I can’t wait to continue. ❤️
June 21, 2021
Sometimes you just have to throw out the rule book! Great story of friends to lovers, strong female heroine, hot firefighter best friend, great banter, HEA with great resources for learning more about diabetes.
Charlie is a great lead character with strong morals, great personality and living with type 1 diabetes. Her best friend, Greyson friend zoned her when they first met and she’s kept him firmly in that zone by abiding by her own set of rules.
Greyson has secretly been in love with his best friend, Charlie since they met. Now that’s he’s finally wanting to risk their friendship to see what more they could have, he’s trying to convince Charlie to throw her rule book about their friendship out the window.
With so much miscommunication between the characters it’s no wonder it takes them so long to get together. This is a longer book but with that you get such great character development and you really feel like one of their friends on this journey with them. Really well written and well done.
Charlie is a great lead character with strong morals, great personality and living with type 1 diabetes. Her best friend, Greyson friend zoned her when they first met and she’s kept him firmly in that zone by abiding by her own set of rules.
Greyson has secretly been in love with his best friend, Charlie since they met. Now that’s he’s finally wanting to risk their friendship to see what more they could have, he’s trying to convince Charlie to throw her rule book about their friendship out the window.
With so much miscommunication between the characters it’s no wonder it takes them so long to get together. This is a longer book but with that you get such great character development and you really feel like one of their friends on this journey with them. Really well written and well done.
July 23, 2021
So I don’t normally read books like this, but I loved this one! Lots of funny scenes, but the fact that the heroine was atypical really appealed to me. She realized her own potential and fought through some things. The hero had his own quirks, too, so that made me like him a bit more.
It’s a quick read, perfect for the beach! Funny, because that’s where most of it takes place!
It’s a quick read, perfect for the beach! Funny, because that’s where most of it takes place!
August 2, 2026
4/5
Genre: Closed-door Romance
🚨TW: being gaslighted, toxic friendship, mentions about struggling with diabetes, almost being assaulted, mentions about having PTSD/ panic attack, jealousy
🚨CW: moderate swearing, sexual jokes, sexual innuendo (all non-explicit)
🌶 low spice
Favourite Moments
🏖 Them bickering, teasing and flirting
🏖 Him making sure that she is alright. (can’t spoil it)
🏖 When she found what she likes to pursue on. (can’t spoil it)
🏖 She met a new friend and also found out they are struggling with the same diagnosis (can’t spoil it)
🏖 They are always there for each other.
🏖 She stood up for herself (can’t spoil it)
🏖 Met some new friends while filming and also went for holiday. (can’t spoil it)
(and lots more)
Swoony Moments
🏖 He loves, cares, protects and make sure she is alright.
🏖 He is always there for her.
🏖 He shows his vulnerable self to her.
🏖 He followed her rules that she places.
Synopsis
Charlie
A tomboy programmer who is good at her job but not appreciated and who also have type 1 Diabetes.
Greyson
A fireman who is in love with his best friend for the longest time but afraid to tell her.
They are best friends who always there for each other and she came out a Rule Book that they
cannot break. Summer Vacation with her other best friend, Bex who is making her do something
that she is not comfortable with and Greyson and Bex don’t see eye to eye because of their differences. And as they spend together by the beach their feelings grow. Will they able to keep the rule from her rule book? Or will they get together and break the rules? read California Promises to find out!
Review
This story is really a roller coaster ride because of both main characters relationship. At times can make you smile and laugh but at times can be frustrating because they just can’t sit down and communicate and tell their feelings for each other.
The things I love is that they are always there for each other when they need each other and also make sure each other are alright. Their bickers, teasing and flirting are just silly.
Other than that, you can see that both characters grow. And lesson can be learned is that you don’t have to be someone else you are not and also if you feel uncomfortable doing something that you are uncomfortable with speak up. You don’t have to turn into clone of your friend who dictate what you wear, how you talk or who to date. Really can’t stand her best friend, Bex (can’t spoil it you will have to read to find out)
And love she found new friends to relate with and also to spend time with. And also realised what she wants to do in her life and same goes for him.
What I don’t like about this story is just that I don’t like the way they tried to deny their feelings or to push away their feelings. Can’t spoil any further you will have to read it to find out.
This is the 1st book of her Surf Kisses Series. The next book will be her new friend, Billie and Jax’s love story.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @erinspineto for the ARC copy.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it is available on KU.
Genre: Closed-door Romance
🚨TW: being gaslighted, toxic friendship, mentions about struggling with diabetes, almost being assaulted, mentions about having PTSD/ panic attack, jealousy
🚨CW: moderate swearing, sexual jokes, sexual innuendo (all non-explicit)
🌶 low spice
Favourite Moments
🏖 Them bickering, teasing and flirting
🏖 Him making sure that she is alright. (can’t spoil it)
🏖 When she found what she likes to pursue on. (can’t spoil it)
🏖 She met a new friend and also found out they are struggling with the same diagnosis (can’t spoil it)
🏖 They are always there for each other.
🏖 She stood up for herself (can’t spoil it)
🏖 Met some new friends while filming and also went for holiday. (can’t spoil it)
(and lots more)
Swoony Moments
🏖 He loves, cares, protects and make sure she is alright.
🏖 He is always there for her.
🏖 He shows his vulnerable self to her.
🏖 He followed her rules that she places.
Synopsis
Charlie
A tomboy programmer who is good at her job but not appreciated and who also have type 1 Diabetes.
Greyson
A fireman who is in love with his best friend for the longest time but afraid to tell her.
They are best friends who always there for each other and she came out a Rule Book that they
cannot break. Summer Vacation with her other best friend, Bex who is making her do something
that she is not comfortable with and Greyson and Bex don’t see eye to eye because of their differences. And as they spend together by the beach their feelings grow. Will they able to keep the rule from her rule book? Or will they get together and break the rules? read California Promises to find out!
Review
This story is really a roller coaster ride because of both main characters relationship. At times can make you smile and laugh but at times can be frustrating because they just can’t sit down and communicate and tell their feelings for each other.
The things I love is that they are always there for each other when they need each other and also make sure each other are alright. Their bickers, teasing and flirting are just silly.
Other than that, you can see that both characters grow. And lesson can be learned is that you don’t have to be someone else you are not and also if you feel uncomfortable doing something that you are uncomfortable with speak up. You don’t have to turn into clone of your friend who dictate what you wear, how you talk or who to date. Really can’t stand her best friend, Bex (can’t spoil it you will have to read to find out)
And love she found new friends to relate with and also to spend time with. And also realised what she wants to do in her life and same goes for him.
What I don’t like about this story is just that I don’t like the way they tried to deny their feelings or to push away their feelings. Can’t spoil any further you will have to read it to find out.
This is the 1st book of her Surf Kisses Series. The next book will be her new friend, Billie and Jax’s love story.
I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @erinspineto for the ARC copy.
You can purchase this book on Amazon and it is available on KU.
June 29, 2022
California Promises by Erin Spineto is a friends-to-lovers, mutual pining, slow burn romance set in Del Mar, California. We follow the perspectives of Charlie, a tomboy software developer working at a misogynistic frat house turned tech company, and Greyson, a firefighter and her closest friend. Charlie and Greyson have The Rule Book - a comprehensive list of rules designed to stop them from ever losing each other. But what happens when they both want to tear up the rule book?
I enjoyed some of the dialogue in California Promises. Most of the dialogue between Charlie and Indigo, her director roommate, is great. Some of the dialogue with Greyson is funny, witty even. I also really appreciated seeing the inclusion of a diabetic character as this is something we rarely see in novels, particularly romance novels.
I think this book is in dire need of some editing. There was a litany of spelling errors, and plot holes throughout the book. Several times a character's name would just change with no explanation. Connor became Finn, Ian became Brad. On top of this, the pacing was off. Some things, like Charlie's software career, were rushed and thrown in (in a way that made me feel like it was only included so that she was 'not like other girls') but others dragged out for far too long, and the tension couldn't be sustained.
I found the book to have a lot of misogynistic aspects which I really didn't enjoy. Charlie, our MC, frequently bemoans how unattractive and stupid her 'best friend' Bex is, and how vapid she is. Charlie is a tomboy - we are told this in the first sentence and then on almost every page thereafter, but in a way that made me feel like the author wanted us to think that she was superior to other women by being a tomboy. There is lengthy discussion about the girls that Greyson sleeps with, also stupid. The sexist discussions at the firehouse and the clear sexual harassment at Charlie's tech firm, though turned around towards the end of the book, almost made me put it down.
Overall I think that California Promises has a good premise, and some really admirable parts, but ultimately it failed to execute them well enough.
Thank you to Erin Spineto, Sea Peptide Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC in return for an honest review.
I enjoyed some of the dialogue in California Promises. Most of the dialogue between Charlie and Indigo, her director roommate, is great. Some of the dialogue with Greyson is funny, witty even. I also really appreciated seeing the inclusion of a diabetic character as this is something we rarely see in novels, particularly romance novels.
I think this book is in dire need of some editing. There was a litany of spelling errors, and plot holes throughout the book. Several times a character's name would just change with no explanation. Connor became Finn, Ian became Brad. On top of this, the pacing was off. Some things, like Charlie's software career, were rushed and thrown in (in a way that made me feel like it was only included so that she was 'not like other girls') but others dragged out for far too long, and the tension couldn't be sustained.
I found the book to have a lot of misogynistic aspects which I really didn't enjoy. Charlie, our MC, frequently bemoans how unattractive and stupid her 'best friend' Bex is, and how vapid she is. Charlie is a tomboy - we are told this in the first sentence and then on almost every page thereafter, but in a way that made me feel like the author wanted us to think that she was superior to other women by being a tomboy. There is lengthy discussion about the girls that Greyson sleeps with, also stupid. The sexist discussions at the firehouse and the clear sexual harassment at Charlie's tech firm, though turned around towards the end of the book, almost made me put it down.
Overall I think that California Promises has a good premise, and some really admirable parts, but ultimately it failed to execute them well enough.
Thank you to Erin Spineto, Sea Peptide Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC in return for an honest review.
August 3, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️
What a wonderful story written by Erin Spineto! This story is a wonderful journey of how friendship can create a strong foundation for a romantic relationship to take place. California Promises is book 1 in the Warrior Women series and starts the series off with a sweet romance. Our MCs have been friends for some time, always keeping their feelings unknown, but their friendship is solid. I thoroughly enjoyed watching these two navigate life together and as their relationship changed from friend to more, it is evident that Erin is writing from experience.
Charlie is a girl after my own heart. A self proclaimed tomboy, she loves surfing and spending time on the beach. Her best friend, Greyson, is a pillar of strength in her life and the community as a local firefighter. While their friendship means a lot to her, she can’t ignore that she has feelings for Greyson, but doesn’t feel as though she is feminine enough for him. Little does she know that Greyson feels like he is not enough for her. When a destination wedding allows them moments of undeniable chemistry, will they finally find the strength to be honest with each other?
The chemistry between these two is definitely present from page 1, but the reader is able to feel it grow and simmer as the book progresses. Greyson truly shows up for Charlie in ways that I couldn’t believe she didn’t realize he felt deeper for her than just friends, because he shows up for her! Erin balanced the story well between romance, work life stress, and chronic disease. As Charlie is a diabetic, Erin wrote this part of her with great care and showed respect to those who deal with this disease on a daily basis.
While it may be evident to the reader these two are meant to be, the story between them progresses perfectly. I enjoyed watching the flirty moments, where neither one noticed or called attention to it, while also always being acutely aware of each other in every situation. I am so glad that Erin reached out to me to read this story. I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🌴Best Friends to More
🎬Tomboy FMC
🌴Firefighter MMC
🎬Secret Pining
🌴Chronic Illness Representation
🎬Closed Door Romance
What a wonderful story written by Erin Spineto! This story is a wonderful journey of how friendship can create a strong foundation for a romantic relationship to take place. California Promises is book 1 in the Warrior Women series and starts the series off with a sweet romance. Our MCs have been friends for some time, always keeping their feelings unknown, but their friendship is solid. I thoroughly enjoyed watching these two navigate life together and as their relationship changed from friend to more, it is evident that Erin is writing from experience.
Charlie is a girl after my own heart. A self proclaimed tomboy, she loves surfing and spending time on the beach. Her best friend, Greyson, is a pillar of strength in her life and the community as a local firefighter. While their friendship means a lot to her, she can’t ignore that she has feelings for Greyson, but doesn’t feel as though she is feminine enough for him. Little does she know that Greyson feels like he is not enough for her. When a destination wedding allows them moments of undeniable chemistry, will they finally find the strength to be honest with each other?
The chemistry between these two is definitely present from page 1, but the reader is able to feel it grow and simmer as the book progresses. Greyson truly shows up for Charlie in ways that I couldn’t believe she didn’t realize he felt deeper for her than just friends, because he shows up for her! Erin balanced the story well between romance, work life stress, and chronic disease. As Charlie is a diabetic, Erin wrote this part of her with great care and showed respect to those who deal with this disease on a daily basis.
While it may be evident to the reader these two are meant to be, the story between them progresses perfectly. I enjoyed watching the flirty moments, where neither one noticed or called attention to it, while also always being acutely aware of each other in every situation. I am so glad that Erin reached out to me to read this story. I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🌴Best Friends to More
🎬Tomboy FMC
🌴Firefighter MMC
🎬Secret Pining
🌴Chronic Illness Representation
🎬Closed Door Romance
June 16, 2021
I was so excited to read this book since it features a T1D main character! I think the cover and title are a little misleading, while I love both, I think it should have had a man on the front too to showcase the romance.
Enemies to lovers is usually my favorite trope because of all the tension and build up but I think best friends to lovers is becoming my favorite. This book is similar to People We Meet on Vacation, where the main characters have been best friends for years and miscommunications result in their not getting together. But unlike People We Meet On Vacation (which I loved), I think this book provided way better character development and more realistic scenarios.
I loved Greyson. The way he talks about Charlie is absolute heart-melting. While he talks a little problematic at times, I think it shows his flawed character and how he hurts while also highlighting how deeply he feels for Charlie.
Charlie was extremely relatable to me. The obvious being her type 1 diabetes. I loved how the author told the story without making it a big part of the story but still infused situations that are very real. While my diabetes is always in the back of my mind, I try to live my life without it making it a big part of my story too. There is a diabetes index in the back of the book which I loved. Sometimes a fiction book can be way better about educating people than nonfiction. I think this book did a great job of mentioning lows and how scary they can be. I want all my friends and family to read this book as a way to sort of understand my life. Besides the diabetes, Charlie is a Tom boy unsure how to be feminine and not lose herself. I always think I’m a girly tomboy where I love “girly things” but don’t like makeup and love sports. It’s rarely a character I read about so that was fun.
This book was a little long and there are tons of miscommunications between the two characters that were a little frustrating at times but overall I loved it. The tension build up was so good and I was rooting so hard for them. Charlie’s best friend was frustrating too but it made Grayson shine as a result so I enjoyed her inclusion.
This would make a great beach read, especially if you love the best friends to lovers trope and a strong female heroine.
*Thank you to the author for an advanced copy. Opinions are my own.
Enemies to lovers is usually my favorite trope because of all the tension and build up but I think best friends to lovers is becoming my favorite. This book is similar to People We Meet on Vacation, where the main characters have been best friends for years and miscommunications result in their not getting together. But unlike People We Meet On Vacation (which I loved), I think this book provided way better character development and more realistic scenarios.
I loved Greyson. The way he talks about Charlie is absolute heart-melting. While he talks a little problematic at times, I think it shows his flawed character and how he hurts while also highlighting how deeply he feels for Charlie.
Charlie was extremely relatable to me. The obvious being her type 1 diabetes. I loved how the author told the story without making it a big part of the story but still infused situations that are very real. While my diabetes is always in the back of my mind, I try to live my life without it making it a big part of my story too. There is a diabetes index in the back of the book which I loved. Sometimes a fiction book can be way better about educating people than nonfiction. I think this book did a great job of mentioning lows and how scary they can be. I want all my friends and family to read this book as a way to sort of understand my life. Besides the diabetes, Charlie is a Tom boy unsure how to be feminine and not lose herself. I always think I’m a girly tomboy where I love “girly things” but don’t like makeup and love sports. It’s rarely a character I read about so that was fun.
This book was a little long and there are tons of miscommunications between the two characters that were a little frustrating at times but overall I loved it. The tension build up was so good and I was rooting so hard for them. Charlie’s best friend was frustrating too but it made Grayson shine as a result so I enjoyed her inclusion.
This would make a great beach read, especially if you love the best friends to lovers trope and a strong female heroine.
*Thank you to the author for an advanced copy. Opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 Stars rounded up.
This book is the story about Charlie and Greyson. They have been friends for 12 years, but they are both oblivious that they both like each other.
In this book we get best friends to lovers, miscommunication, surfing, finding your voice, meeting new friends, and pages of longing. Sometimes I really struggle with the miscommunication trope. I know we wouldn't have had this story without it, but there were times that I wanted to reach through the pages and shake both Charlie and Grey and tell them to just have a conversation!!
I liked the friendship that Grey and Charlie had, even though they pushed each others buttons and refuse to have a conversation. One thing I didn't care for was the negative self talk they both had. However, after a conversation was finally had, it was sweet that they focused on building each other up.
I also enjoyed the friends that Charlie gained when she went to Maui. Her friendship with Bex was toxic, so it was nice that she was able to find some friendships that built her up and that I felt helped her start to actually find herself.
This is a closed door story, but there is heavy sexual innuendo throughout the story with some mild language.
This is my first read by Erin Spineto and I am curious about her other books in this series and have put them on my TBR. "Anything Anytime Anywhere" gives us Billie and Jax's story and "Souvenirs" gives us Emerson and Finn's story...
I received and advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Quotes:
"How are you supposed to identify your person if everyone on a date is pretending to be someone they're not?"
"The knowledge of the collective is always better."
"A sexy woman is a woman who knows what she wants."
This book is the story about Charlie and Greyson. They have been friends for 12 years, but they are both oblivious that they both like each other.
In this book we get best friends to lovers, miscommunication, surfing, finding your voice, meeting new friends, and pages of longing. Sometimes I really struggle with the miscommunication trope. I know we wouldn't have had this story without it, but there were times that I wanted to reach through the pages and shake both Charlie and Grey and tell them to just have a conversation!!
I liked the friendship that Grey and Charlie had, even though they pushed each others buttons and refuse to have a conversation. One thing I didn't care for was the negative self talk they both had. However, after a conversation was finally had, it was sweet that they focused on building each other up.
I also enjoyed the friends that Charlie gained when she went to Maui. Her friendship with Bex was toxic, so it was nice that she was able to find some friendships that built her up and that I felt helped her start to actually find herself.
This is a closed door story, but there is heavy sexual innuendo throughout the story with some mild language.
This is my first read by Erin Spineto and I am curious about her other books in this series and have put them on my TBR. "Anything Anytime Anywhere" gives us Billie and Jax's story and "Souvenirs" gives us Emerson and Finn's story...
I received and advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Quotes:
"How are you supposed to identify your person if everyone on a date is pretending to be someone they're not?"
"The knowledge of the collective is always better."
"A sexy woman is a woman who knows what she wants."
July 30, 2026
🌊🌊🌊🌊.25 : keep in mind the star review is based off of MY interests!
I haven’t done a full closed door romance in a while and I must say the slow burn on California Promises had me on edge the whole time. This book is literally the perfect summer read if you want some fun surfing, friends to lovers romance and closed door.
California Promises is a re-release… which means if you love it… book two and three are already published and ready to check out!
The genre sometimes slipped into new adult instead of an adult romance, I felt this with Charlie and Greyson’s mini conflicts/resolutions and some of the conversations/actions with friends.
My favorite parts of each of the characters was how much they helped each other in extremely hard points in their lives: diabetes and PTSD.
As a firefighter, I know how mental health after bad calls can be and I thought Erin portrayed this extremely well. How one can have flashbacks out of nowhere and how much it can take a tole on someone. I also really liked her take on PTSD/PTS. These representations were very well thought out.
Ultimately I enjoyed reading this book and the slow burn got better as a bigger hook as the story went on. This was a medium paced read for me.
Tropes:
🔥 Slow Burn
🚪 Closed Door Romance
🥰 Reformed Player
🏄♀️ Surfing
⚠️: diabetes rep and discussions.
I am voluntarily leaving this review and all thoughts are my own!
Thanks for the free copy of your re-released version of California Promises!
I haven’t done a full closed door romance in a while and I must say the slow burn on California Promises had me on edge the whole time. This book is literally the perfect summer read if you want some fun surfing, friends to lovers romance and closed door.
California Promises is a re-release… which means if you love it… book two and three are already published and ready to check out!
The genre sometimes slipped into new adult instead of an adult romance, I felt this with Charlie and Greyson’s mini conflicts/resolutions and some of the conversations/actions with friends.
My favorite parts of each of the characters was how much they helped each other in extremely hard points in their lives: diabetes and PTSD.
As a firefighter, I know how mental health after bad calls can be and I thought Erin portrayed this extremely well. How one can have flashbacks out of nowhere and how much it can take a tole on someone. I also really liked her take on PTSD/PTS. These representations were very well thought out.
Ultimately I enjoyed reading this book and the slow burn got better as a bigger hook as the story went on. This was a medium paced read for me.
Tropes:
🔥 Slow Burn
🚪 Closed Door Romance
🥰 Reformed Player
🏄♀️ Surfing
⚠️: diabetes rep and discussions.
I am voluntarily leaving this review and all thoughts are my own!
Thanks for the free copy of your re-released version of California Promises!
August 8, 2026
This is a fun summer romance with Charlie, the female protagonist, at the centre of the story. Charlie is more of a tomboy, much more interested in beaches and surfing than being a princess. She’s also a type 1 diabetic and uses a device that monitors her blood sugar levels, which is naturally woven into her everyday life. I loved that Charlie wasn’t perfect, as it made the story feel more real.
Grayson is Charlie’s best friend and a firefighter who is always there for her when she needs him. I really enjoyed the friends to lovers storyline between Charlie and Grayson. There were plenty of twists and turns along the way that kept me guessing, and I liked seeing how the relationships developed.
Charlie was a standout character, and I found the rest of the cast easy to connect with too. The storyline was straightforward and easy to get into, but still kept me turning the pages and was difficult to put down. There were also some genuinely funny moments, especially involving Tank, who had me laughing in places.
Overall, this was an enjoyable, easy-to-read summer romance with characters I think you will enjoy so pick up a copy today.
Grayson is Charlie’s best friend and a firefighter who is always there for her when she needs him. I really enjoyed the friends to lovers storyline between Charlie and Grayson. There were plenty of twists and turns along the way that kept me guessing, and I liked seeing how the relationships developed.
Charlie was a standout character, and I found the rest of the cast easy to connect with too. The storyline was straightforward and easy to get into, but still kept me turning the pages and was difficult to put down. There were also some genuinely funny moments, especially involving Tank, who had me laughing in places.
Overall, this was an enjoyable, easy-to-read summer romance with characters I think you will enjoy so pick up a copy today.
August 11, 2026
Being married to a firefighter, the second I see one is the MMC you know I’m interested! And really, who doesn't love a good friends to lovers romance??? This book was such a fun beachy read filled with banter, slow burn tension, and plenty of "JUST KISS ALREADY!" moments! I especially loved seeing type 1 diabetes represented in such a natural, authentic way. It wasn't there to define Charlie, it was simply part of her everyday life, and I appreciated how much awareness the story brought without ever feeling preachy! Plus the diabetes guide at the end was also such a thoughtful touch!
Now… While this is a closed door romance, I'd probably put an asterisk next to that recommendation… There are a few jokes, language choices, and conversations sprinkled throughout that were a little more on the crude side… so it's something to keep in mind if you're expecting a clean romance… But, even so, if you enjoy lifelong friends, lovable firefighters, emotional growth, and plenty of ‘will they won't they’ chemistry, this one is an entertaining start to the Warrior Women series!
Thank you so much to Erin Spineto for the advanced copy of this book! All thoughts are my own.
Now… While this is a closed door romance, I'd probably put an asterisk next to that recommendation… There are a few jokes, language choices, and conversations sprinkled throughout that were a little more on the crude side… so it's something to keep in mind if you're expecting a clean romance… But, even so, if you enjoy lifelong friends, lovable firefighters, emotional growth, and plenty of ‘will they won't they’ chemistry, this one is an entertaining start to the Warrior Women series!
Thank you so much to Erin Spineto for the advanced copy of this book! All thoughts are my own.
August 2, 2026
Thank you to Erin Spineto for a copy of this one!
There is just something about a friends to lovers romance where everyone can see the feelings except the two people living them. Charlie and Greyson had me rooting for them from page one. The love they had for each other was so painfully obvious, but that Half Foot Rule kept them just far enough apart to make my heart ache. Their friendship was honestly my favorite part. They were always each other’s safe place, biggest supporter, and constant.
I also appreciated how realistically Erin handled Charlie’s diabetes and Greyson’s PTSD. Neither felt like a plot device. They were woven naturally into who these characters are and the challenges they face, adding so much depth to their story.
Now, Bex and I were not on the same wavelength. If Charlie had been my daughter, I would’ve had more than a few opinions about that relationship.
Charlie and Greyson I adored. Their journey was not smooth but was sweet. And the beach setting is always a plus!
There is just something about a friends to lovers romance where everyone can see the feelings except the two people living them. Charlie and Greyson had me rooting for them from page one. The love they had for each other was so painfully obvious, but that Half Foot Rule kept them just far enough apart to make my heart ache. Their friendship was honestly my favorite part. They were always each other’s safe place, biggest supporter, and constant.
I also appreciated how realistically Erin handled Charlie’s diabetes and Greyson’s PTSD. Neither felt like a plot device. They were woven naturally into who these characters are and the challenges they face, adding so much depth to their story.
Now, Bex and I were not on the same wavelength. If Charlie had been my daughter, I would’ve had more than a few opinions about that relationship.
Charlie and Greyson I adored. Their journey was not smooth but was sweet. And the beach setting is always a plus!
July 8, 2022
This book was equal parts adorable and frustrating. It's a slow burn friends to lovers rom-com with a lot of miscommunication. Unfortunately I found the last couple of miscommunications unnecessary and just a bit much. There are some great characters and I loved reading from both Charlie’s and Grey’s POV’s. I also love the fact that Charlie was diabetic but it was just another fun fact about her and not the whole plot point. We love a chronic illness queen. I did however question her friendship with Bex and I wasn’t a fan of how that was tied up. All in all, it's a fun read for the summer and Spineto can really set a scene. It could do with some extra editing though as it really is a slow burn and the timeline jumps forward a lot with nothing having changed. Also, some character's names change which made it a bit confusing.
I received a copy of the ebook via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I received a copy of the ebook via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
June 17, 2022
Friends-to-lovers trope.
Charlie and Greyson have been best friends for almost a decade and have both secretly wanted more. Both thinking they didn’t serve the other person.
I normally love the friends-to-lovers trope, but this one didn’t hit me quite right. A bit too angsty for me. I generally go for happy-happy storylines, but if you like a more complications thrown in, you’ll probably like this one!
Please note, the ARC had some formatting issues that made it a bit hard to read, with some broken words and page breaks, which may have added to the angsty feel to the story. I’m guessing that will be cleaned up in the final ebook, so that will also help with the story flow.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for California Promises to come out on June 21, 2022.
Charlie and Greyson have been best friends for almost a decade and have both secretly wanted more. Both thinking they didn’t serve the other person.
I normally love the friends-to-lovers trope, but this one didn’t hit me quite right. A bit too angsty for me. I generally go for happy-happy storylines, but if you like a more complications thrown in, you’ll probably like this one!
Please note, the ARC had some formatting issues that made it a bit hard to read, with some broken words and page breaks, which may have added to the angsty feel to the story. I’m guessing that will be cleaned up in the final ebook, so that will also help with the story flow.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for California Promises to come out on June 21, 2022.
August 8, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy of "California Promises" by Erin Spineto.
The novel follows Charlie, a character with type 1 diabetes and a firefighter named Greyson who is struggling with his anxiety. The two of them end up having a friends-to-lovers relationship. I love the way in which each of the main characters' personalities were depicted/written throughout the course of the book, and I liked that they were not absolutely picture perfect and happened to have flaws every once in awhile. I also enjoyed that I got to learn a lot more about type 1 diabetes, as I personally do not have any experience with it,
The only issue that I really had while reading this novel was the amount is miscommunication that happened between the two main characters - this made it frustrating at times.
Overall, I rated this novel a 4/5 stars!
The novel follows Charlie, a character with type 1 diabetes and a firefighter named Greyson who is struggling with his anxiety. The two of them end up having a friends-to-lovers relationship. I love the way in which each of the main characters' personalities were depicted/written throughout the course of the book, and I liked that they were not absolutely picture perfect and happened to have flaws every once in awhile. I also enjoyed that I got to learn a lot more about type 1 diabetes, as I personally do not have any experience with it,
The only issue that I really had while reading this novel was the amount is miscommunication that happened between the two main characters - this made it frustrating at times.
Overall, I rated this novel a 4/5 stars!
August 2, 2026
California Promises had a solid premise, but it took me a few tries to really get into it. The beginning felt a little slow, so it wasn't one of those books that immediately pulled me in. Once the story found its footing, though, I enjoyed spending time with the characters. Their friendships felt genuine, and the humor sprinkled throughout helped keep things light.
I also appreciated seeing Type 1 diabetes represented, though I found myself wishing it had been woven more consistently into the story instead of fading into the background at times. The romance was definitely a slow burn, maybe a little too slow for my taste, but Charlie and Greyson were easy to root for. While it wasn't a perfect fit for me, it still had plenty of heart and ended up being an enjoyable read overall.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I also appreciated seeing Type 1 diabetes represented, though I found myself wishing it had been woven more consistently into the story instead of fading into the background at times. The romance was definitely a slow burn, maybe a little too slow for my taste, but Charlie and Greyson were easy to root for. While it wasn't a perfect fit for me, it still had plenty of heart and ended up being an enjoyable read overall.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 5, 2026
I was not able connect with this book in any way. I am not the reader for this story.
From what I did read the book seemed to jump all over the place and it felt disjointed. I was struggling with what felt like random world building.
I didn’t like how the characters talked about/portrayed any other woman that wasn’t the FMC. The FMC is a “tomboy” and both her and the MC describe any other women as “vapid and vain”. I get that we want the FMC to stand out among the side characters but it felt harsh and unnecessary to me.
And some of the blatant misogyny and sexism that happened in the workplace of the FMC went too far for me.
I struggled with picking this back up to try and finish the book. I was hoping that maybe it would get better with one more chapter but it didn’t for me. I DNF’d around the 22% mark.
I appreciate the opportunity to ARC read but this book is not for me. Hopefully this book can find the right readers.
From what I did read the book seemed to jump all over the place and it felt disjointed. I was struggling with what felt like random world building.
I didn’t like how the characters talked about/portrayed any other woman that wasn’t the FMC. The FMC is a “tomboy” and both her and the MC describe any other women as “vapid and vain”. I get that we want the FMC to stand out among the side characters but it felt harsh and unnecessary to me.
And some of the blatant misogyny and sexism that happened in the workplace of the FMC went too far for me.
I struggled with picking this back up to try and finish the book. I was hoping that maybe it would get better with one more chapter but it didn’t for me. I DNF’d around the 22% mark.
I appreciate the opportunity to ARC read but this book is not for me. Hopefully this book can find the right readers.
August 10, 2026
California Promises is a bright ray of sunshine! A take on best friends to lovers, the story follows Charlie and Grey as they work out if friends is all they want to be, or if something more is in the cards.
The story was good, Charlie and Grey feel believable, and there are some fun side characters who help flesh out the wider world here. This is a great romance if you prefer closed door, and to keep it PG on the language front, the author is very intentional about keeping things clean for readers who are looking for that. Be warned, there is some long running miscommunication going on (which can be natural for friends to lovers), but eventually things do resolve in a satisfying way.
Overall, this read is likely a better fit for those not looking for spice, but this was still a lot of fun. Thank you to the author for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story was good, Charlie and Grey feel believable, and there are some fun side characters who help flesh out the wider world here. This is a great romance if you prefer closed door, and to keep it PG on the language front, the author is very intentional about keeping things clean for readers who are looking for that. Be warned, there is some long running miscommunication going on (which can be natural for friends to lovers), but eventually things do resolve in a satisfying way.
Overall, this read is likely a better fit for those not looking for spice, but this was still a lot of fun. Thank you to the author for providing an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2026
This friends to lovers romance was a roller coaster.
Charlie’s outrageous work environment and often-cruel childhood friend were both situations where I looked forward to Charlie standing up for herself and I overall liked her character growth over the course of the book. I also appreciated this tale’s disability and mental health rep.
For a long time, Greyson and Charlie had a genuine friendship and prioritized each other. But toward the end, their continued lack of honest communication turned most of their interactions into fights where they weren’t even being nice to each other anymore and the story lost some steam for me. The ending was satisfying, leaving me overall enjoying this romance.
ARC provided by the author. Opinions are my own.
Charlie’s outrageous work environment and often-cruel childhood friend were both situations where I looked forward to Charlie standing up for herself and I overall liked her character growth over the course of the book. I also appreciated this tale’s disability and mental health rep.
For a long time, Greyson and Charlie had a genuine friendship and prioritized each other. But toward the end, their continued lack of honest communication turned most of their interactions into fights where they weren’t even being nice to each other anymore and the story lost some steam for me. The ending was satisfying, leaving me overall enjoying this romance.
ARC provided by the author. Opinions are my own.
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