Tripped by Love

Anchor #6

by L.J. Evans

He’s a broody bodyguard with secrets he can’t share.
She’s a busy single mom with a restaurant to run.
They’re just friends until a little white lie changes everything.

Marco Hernandez is the somber trainer here only to bend my body into shape, but when the perfectly sculpted man holds my son in his arms and smiles, I’m a goner. Weak legs. Pounding veins. Too bad as my brother’s bodyguard, he’ll never look at me the way I crave. Too bad I don’t have the time between the café and my baby boy to persuade him otherwise.

Cassidy O’Neil has looked like an angel from the moment I met her…an angel I can’t touch. Not only because she’s my boss’s sister but because I’m still trying to redeem myself for the sins of my past. The tantalizing mirage of “family” she represents will remain just that―a dream-like apparition.

Until her ex returns trying to claim the son he never wanted, and I’m the one who shows him the door. The lie that falls from my lips while trying to protect her threatens the tenacious balance we’ve established.

Once it’s Cassidy’s heart on the line, how will I defend her? Especially if I’m the one putting it at risk.

Inspired by Ingrid Andress’s “We’re Not Friends,” this achingly tender, slow-burn, ex-military romance from award-winning author LJ Evans has loveable characters, deep emotions, and a windy path to creating a family.

Get it now and see why readers say LJ creates unforgettable characters.

Genres: Romance, Friends To Lovers, Slow Burn, Childrens, Disability, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary

427 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 12, 2022

About the author

Award-winning author LJ Evans lives in Northern California with her husband, child, and the three terrors called cats. She's written compulsively since she was a little girl, often getting derailed from what she should be doing by a song lyric that sends her scrambling to jot a scene down.

A former first-grade teacher, she now spends her days deep in the pages of romance and mystery with a bit of the otherworldly thrown in. Her favorite characters are those who live resiliently—stubbornly and triumphantly getting through this wild ride called life with hope, love, and found families guiding the way.

Her novels have won multiple industry awards, including CHARMING AND THE CHERRY BLOSSOM which was Writer’s Digest’s Self-Published E-book Romance of the Year.

Find out more about LJ and her books at www.ljevansbooks.com

Reviews

[Carol [Goodreads Addict] · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tripped by Love is the sixth book in the Anchor series by LJ Evans. Each of these books can be read as stand alones. This is a beautiful small town slow burn romance. I can’t wait to introduce you to these characters.



We met Cassidy O’Neil in Branded by a Song as Brady O’Neil, the famous country rock star’s younger sister. Cassidy is twenty five years old. She has a condition called hypotonia and extra X chromosome. It affects her balance. She has had more broken bones in her young life than she can count. As a result, her parents and brother have always been over the top protective of her, to a stifling degree. Even more so now that she is the single mother to her adorable son, Chevelle, the center of her world.



Cassidy’s brother helped make her dream of owning her own restaurant come true by investing in The Golden Heart. With the help of her family watching her son, the restaurant is a thriving success but her life is jam packed from the moment she wakes up early to start prepping for the day until the moment she collapses at the end of the night.



Marco Hernandez has been Brady’s body guard for seven years. Cassidy was only eighteen when he first met her but even then, he was strangely drawn to her, which made him keep his distance even more diligently. After the birth of her son, she wanted to get stronger so every night after she puts her son to bed, Marco comes over and they work out together. The chemistry hums between them but Marco can’t give in to it. He has kept his past a secret from everyone but he could never be the man Cassidy deserves. Not to mention, she’s his boss’s sister. So work out buddies is as far as it will go, or so they think!

Little Chevelle’s father is nothing more than a sperm donor. He wanted nothing at all to do with a child. But for some unknown reason, he has shown up in Grand Orchard claiming he wants rights to his son. Cassidy vows to never allow him into their lives and Marco vows to help her. He loves that little boy and will do anything to protect him and Cassidy.



Marco is a protector. Cassidy feels over protected. But with Marco, she realizes that his protectiveness comes from his heart, not to stifle her but to give her strength, to be there for her. And Cassidy is able to open Marco’s heart in a way no one has been able to do. To finally face his ghosts and let his past go. To finally realize that what he has to offer is all that Cassidy wants, his love.

This is such a beautiful story of healing, of heart, of untold strength, of family, and so much love. LJ Evans stories are so beautifully told you can’t help but to live them right along with the characters. So sit back, put on your fuzzy socks, get comfy, and enjoy your visit to Grand Orchard. I’m sure you’ll enjoy your visit as much as I have.

“My angel.”

For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...

[Leticia (jerseygirlsbookshelf) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"You've shown me how to live again. Love again. Be human again."
I'm a huge LJ Evans fan, and I've been waiting for Cassidy and Marco's story since Branded by a Song (which is my favorite book of hers). Not only is this a wonderful story, but I was left with all the feels and, most importantly, with a wonderfully inspiring feeling of hope and a full heart.
LJ Evans has a way with words, and a way of showing us what real love is. Every time.

"I don't want your protection, Marco. I don't need it. I just want you."
Marco is like each and every one of my favorite heroes – fiercely protective of those he loves. He's strong, he's there for everyone, and he gives all of himself without asking for anything in return. In fact, he thinks he's not deserving of anything, because of things that happened in his past and that have left him guilt-ridden.

"I wanted every little thought. Every concern. Every smile."
Cassidy has been wrapped up in bubble wrap since she was a kid. She has a condition, but people go to great lengths to protect her, and even though she appreciates it, she wants to stand on her own two feet. She wants to be seen as a woman, not as someone who needs to be taken care of.

"I want the little pieces, Angel. (...) I'm going to want to be the person waiting for you in your bed when everything you have to do in your day is done."
They've thought about each other lots of times. They've stolen glances at each other. They have a connection that can't be described. But he's her brother's bodyguard, and he shouldn't want her. And she's a woman who's stretched out beyond her limits, between being a mother and a restaurant owner. Marco thinks she's deserving of more. Cassidy thinks she can't give him what he deserves.

What if, in this crazy, messed up world, they've been put together because they're both deserving, and they're what their respective lives have been missing all along?

"Make me believe every word, and I promise, I'll do the same. Keep you. Forever."
Something pushes Marco into showing Cassidy how much he cares. Suddenly, those stolen glances are out in the open and it's getting harder and harder for them to keep each other away. They can't stop thinking about each other, and when they finally gave in, it was magical for me.
Theirs is a hard-earned HEA. It's not easy for Marco to understand he can leave the past behind, and for Cassidy to see that he may want to protect her, but that's also what love is like, and she's the only woman for him.

"A love that would help us back onto our feet whenever we tripped again. I was his, and he was mine. Nothing else mattered."
Cassidy and Marco needed to surrender to being needed and wanted. Loved. To know they're so much more than what they think they are. They've tripped into the kind of love that will do nothing but build them up and help them stand. Together.

This is now my second favorite of LJ's books.

[Lori R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, I am wowed and amazed by this author’s words, by her storytelling skills, by her talented mind. My heart is bursting at the seams with love and joy and emotion after reading this beautifully penned story.

Marco is the bodyguard of Cassidy’s musician brother. He has adored her from the beginning of his job. He’s always felt the need to protect her, care for her, yet always wanting more.

The love between Marco and Cassidy has always been present, but it’s never been made known by either of them. Others knew it, others saw the way they looked at each other, but neither Marco nor Cassidy admitted it out loud. So throughout this story, the delicious slow burn between these lovable, charming characters sizzled, it was emotion-packed, and full of many touching, feel-good moments that made me smile big and sigh with happiness and contentment.

Both Cassidy and Marco have things holding them back from being in a relationship; Marco doesn’t feel worthy, Cassidy doesn’t have the time, nor can she afford to risk anything being business owner and a single mom.

The way Marco feels about Cassidy makes my insides melt with ooey-gooey goodness. His heart is generous and loving and so big. The way he showed her - the things he did, the things he said - made me swoon hard. The way Cassidy was able to show Marco his worth and make him realize he is important and needed and honorable and good made me fall for her even harder.

Ms. Evans so lovingly grabbed a hold of my heart from the beginning and didn’t let go until the very end. I never wanted to put this down.

I hadn’t read any of the other books in this series and I was still able to thoroughly enjoy this. And do I want to go back and read the other books now? Most definitely.

[Brayzen Bookwyrm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beauty, Balance, and Belonging
“Tripped by Love” by LJ Evans is the beautifully written story of Cassidy and Marco, two wonderfully developed characters with complicated pasts that define who they are and seems to keep them from discovering who they could be for another person. Evans’s elegant storytelling infuses emotion and intensity to bring the reader into her characters’ lives; there is no way to avoid becoming invested in Cassidy and Marco’s HEA. Tripped is low on steam but high on intimacy, embracing an expressive tone that perfectly showcases the spirit of the characters. Solid pacing builds with strength and emotions as the characters confront their own internal struggles and help each other find balance, eventually facing an external conflict together that truly solidifies their relationship with each other. Evans does an excellent job of interweaving characters from the prior book and a future series to create a blending of found and biological families. I am definitely hooked on this series, this author, and cannot wait to read what she has in store next.

[Leisa Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely everything I love in a book….a fantastic realistic story, characters that feel like friends (seriously, I had to keep reminding myself that these are fictional characters), an alpha hero with a tortured heart of gold and a heroine that is mature, independent and can take care of herself. Marco has taken the top spot of my favorite hero in this series and Cassidy is right up there too. I don’t usually highlight much while reading but I found myself highlighting quotes and passages….so many beautiful words and truths written in the pages of this book. This one will stick with me for a long time….I hated to see the story end. Side note….this is my most favorite playlist ever….I’ve got it on repeat!

[The Bosnian · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 STRONG STARS
As always, my Full Review & Teasers on my REVIEW PAGE -> CLICK HERE

[Energy Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

“You showed me a grace I hadn’t thought I deserved...”

Sometimes you meet someone that you know something is there from the very start. But life, with its baggage and hurts, can stand in the way, stopping you from doing things that could enrich it. Cassidy has spent her life under the careful eye of her family. Every misstep could spell disaster for her. She wants nothing more than to spread her wings and fly, and this cafe can mean just that. She’s serving foods to the masses that are whole and healthy. But she feels she owes her brother for helping her get the cafe. Until that debt is settled, she needs to put her head down, work, and worry about raising her son, Chevelle. There’s no room in her life right now for romance. 

Especially not with Marco, her brother’s bodyguard. Marco is carrying a lot of wounds, and he’s so busy beating himself up and trying to atone for his mistakes that he keeps the light at bay, never letting it near. 

I might be partial to LJ’s books, but this one is pretty special. One of the hardest things to do in our lives is forgiving, even more so when forgiving yourself. I am a firm believer that we make our families. So as I watch not just our main characters but new and old come together in each book, this is what I think of when I think of family. Tripped by Love is a touching novel about letting go, about forgiveness of yourself and your mistakes, and about opening yourself up to let love and light into your life. 

A randomly related final note: This is not a religious novel. But I will tie in a quote that I feel applies to this book, so please bear with me. Many years ago, as I was studying religion in college, I read Conversations with God by Neale Donald Walsch. One quote in the book goes, “relationships work best when you do what is best for you.” In Marco’s case, he doesn’t know what’s best because he’s too caught up in a cycle of reliving his regrets. That would make for an incredibly unhealthy relationship. But sometimes, the right person can come along and help us alter our perspectives. They can help you be a better you, thus allowing you to give yourself entirely to another. I think Tripped by Love encapsulates this quote and all of its intentions wholly. 

[Angela's Book Addiction · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tripped by Love by L.J. Evans is a slow-burn, contemporary, small-town, single-parent, friends-to-lovers romance told in first person, dual POV. It's the sixth Anchor novel, a series of interconnected standalones. You don’t need to read any of the previous books to enjoy this one, but doing so enhances the experience when previous characters appear. For the best experience, I’d recommend reading Branded by a Song first—it provides foundational background information because the characters are siblings and their stories are closely tied through their relationship.

Tripped by Love follows single-parent cafe owner Cassidy O’Neil and her famous brother’s bodyguard Marco Hernandez, as their relationship progresses from personal trainer and trainee to friends to so much more. Despite Cassidy and Marco’s chemistry and interest in each other, they both have reasons for not taking their relationship beyond friendship. But when Cassidy’s ex returns, threatening to take her son away, and Marco comes to her aid, it changes their dynamic. Can Marco and Cassidy move past their perceived obstacles? Or will they continue to resist the pull toward each other?

After seeing Cassidy and Marco interact with each other in Branded by a Song, I was hoping they’d get their own story, so I was excited to read this—it did not disappoint at all. Their story explores themes of forgiveness for others and self. The road to Cassidy and Marco’s happy ending has its share of bumps along the way, but it ultimately brings them closer as they support and fight for each other. Tripped by Love was sweet, steamy, and emotionally satisfying. I can’t wait to read Jonas and Paisley’s story in the spin-off series.

*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. ***

[Kurt · Rating 5 out of 5]

A slow burn, lovers to friends novel!

Another book in the Anchor series by LJ Evans but can be read as a stand alone.

This book is the story of Cassidy, sister of county-rock star, Brady O’Neil, and his bodyguard, Marco. Cassidy has a condition called Hypotonia, which is a weakness in the muscles. She has spent her life feeling as though everyone considers her weak. Marco suffers from guilt and trauma related to his time in the service.

The book explores their growing relationship and is, as always, beautifully written.

[Stephanie Osborne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just like the rest of the series, Tripped by Love is chock full of wonderful characters. Cassidy & Marco for sure, but Mayliah, Jonas and Chevelle add so much depth to the story.

My favorite aspect of their slow burn story is soul deep love- but not just romantic love. Familial relationships not defined by blood are a huge part of the story. LJ writes stories inspired by music. My Boy by Elvie Shane is included in the Playlist. ♥️

I can’t WAIT for the new spin off series coming this summer!

[NovelMomma · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did I stay up reading until 4AM to finish this? Yes, yes I did. Do I regret it? Absolutely not. The writing is fantastic, the story captivating, and the characters bring every single feel.

Marco and Cassidy have such a beautiful story. She is sunshine and beauty from the inside out, and he is stuck in a sea of regret. But when they come together, you can feel their souls connecting. This story is so beautifully written, and the playlist that goes with it is so perfect! I was completely addicted, and needed these characters to find their way to their happily ever after. And when I got there, it did not disappoint!

Cassidy is the kind of girl you want to be real, because she would make an incredible friend. She is strong and determined regardless of the challenges she faces, and she loves with everything she has. When she takes you in, she plans to have your back no matter what. She chooses to see the good in things when it would be so easy for her to dwell on the challenges she has to overcome.

Marco is book boyfriend perfection. He is dark and broody, a fierce protector, and when the light finds its way through his armor he shines so bright. He is lost in a sea of regret, but watching him come up for air and find himself again in this story is pure beauty! Marco is determined to take care of everyone he loves, but watching the way he also protects Cassidy's independence is perfection.

The side characters in this story left me longing for more stories, and smiling so huge as we checked in with past characters I have grown to love so much. Those who have read the series will love following up with Brady and Tristan, and I'm confident I'm not going to be the only one shipping Jonas and a certain Painted Daisies member. (Or maybe I am, but I think it would be fantastic, haha!) Either way, I can't wait for more Anchor novels!

[Clara Martinez Turco · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tripped by Love is a captivating small-town romance, filled with slow burn and built around music. It is part of LJ Evans' Anchor series and follows Cassidy O'Neil, whom we met in Branded by a Song and who is country rockstar Brady O'Neil's little sister.

Cassidy is a single mother to Chevelle and owns a successful restaurant The Golden Heart. She has hypotonia (low muscle tone) and a genetic condition called triple X syndrome. These affect her motor skills and balance. But she has made a point of being independent and thriving as a mom and restauranteur regardless of what others perceive as clumsiness.

Marco Hernandez was born to protect others. He has been one of Brady's bodyguards for the past seven years and has been smitten with Cassidy since the first time he saw her. But he has never acted on his feelings. and has made its mission to help Cassidy strengthen her body by training with her, without ever being overprotective. In fact, he considers her one of the strongest people he knows. When Cass' past comes knocking on her door, he feels the need to protect her as if she was his.

They develop a strong and sincere friendship and tell each other bits from their pasts that they have never been able to say out loud. And as their friendship flourishes, so do the feelings that have always been there. They make each other stronger and better. Together they learn that they are worthy and deserving of love, and that in order to move forward the ghosts of the past must be set free.

I lost myself in the pages of Tripped by Love. Cassidy's character and strength touched me deeply. LJ Evans' description of what those that have hypotonia go through is so accurate and, for personal reasons, it resonated with me. I don't recall many main characters who have this condition, so I appreciated that she has shed light on it.

[Vera Blaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished reading this book a couple of days ago and hoped that when I sat down to write this review all the words that would do this book justice would just come flowing out of me. The thing about LJ Evans' books is that they lure you in and once you're good and properly lured, you get hooked. My first LJ book was "My Life as a Country Album." That book broke me to no end, so much so that I have not been able to listen to the audiobook version quite yet. "Tripped by Love" did not break me quite as well as "My Life as a Country Album," but it sure did leave some marks along the way.

Cassidy O'Neil is no stranger to the reader. She's Brady O'Neil's sister (Branded by a Song). Marco Hernandez isn't either. He's one of Brady's bodyguards. All her life Cassidy was coddled and sheltered. Her Triple X Syndrome and hypotonia sure made things a bit difficult for her, but she was still very capable of taking care of herself and her son Chevelle, running her own business, and keeping her own house. She is so much more than her diagnoses. Marco has always seen her as strong and capable, and he's tried so hard not to let his baser feelings get in the way of his role as protector. He might not feel like he's deserving of anything, but Cassidy helps him see the beauty of the people around him and how much they love him. Marco helps Cassidy to feel as strong as she is, and recognize that not all help is given because people feel like she isn't capable. I love this couple and how much they support one another, building up each other's strengths, and accepting the love they're surrounded by.

I received an advance copy of this book at my request and voluntarily left this review.

[Amy Reierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a breathtaking tale of strength, growth, forgiveness and love.
Everything about this book moves with the fluidity of a song, just like those that inspire the words that LJ Evans writes.
Cassidy has lived in an overprotective bubble and she knows her loved ones mean well but real life needs freedom not restraint.
Marco's life has been about control and chaos now he strives for restraint scared of the freedom love allows.
When these two ban together to protect Cassidy's son from the father who never wanted him till now, the trust they form won't be the only mending bond created.
I can't wait to catch up on more of this series and see more of what's to come.
I have voluntarily left this review.

[Tanja OMGReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read most of LJ Evans books but never where one had more appropriate title to it like this one.
Cassidy and Marco have been dancing around each other for a few years know thinking that one was not worth the other. But now things have started to shift and when they put their hearts in the line and let themselves Tripp in love (see what I did there.. I'm terrible i know🤦‍♀️) everything in their lives falls into place and they can finally have peace in each other's arms.

My heart was hurting so much while reading and if anyone deserved to be loved and cherished its there two so you can imagine smile when happiness was finally accepted without the guilt. I think this one might be my favorite so far ❤️

***Review copy requested and received on behalf of OMGReads Blog***

[Sophie Koufes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tripped by Love: A Friends-to-lovers, Small-town Romance (An Anchor Novel Book 6) is a page-turning work of art. This author crafts a story from beginning to end without added fluff, a well mix of deep emotions, compelling and unforgettable characters, engaging plot, and a contemporary romance novel with ❤.

I highly recommend reading this novel and series. I also recommend reading everything this author writes as her writing style is a class above in contemporary romance novels.

[Sarah Lehman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story so much! Cassidy has been hovered over by concerned family members due to her genetics, making her fall easily. As busy as she is working in her restaurant and being a single mom to her sweet little boy Chevelle, she hopes to find a true love. Marco has been helping Cassidy with her fitness and has secretly longed for her but feels he is unable to be loved due to something in his past. I loved how protective he was of Cassidy, especially when her louse of an ex showed up.

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

L.J. Evans delivers yet another slow-burn, romance that has you swooning all over Marco and cheering for and loving Cassidy. I have been following L.J. for a while, and whenever I see that she has a new book out, I start my happy dance and send her a message. Tripped by Love is one story that you will fall in love with. She grabs your attention right from the start with her details, beautiful writing, and gripping storyline.

Cassidy is a single mom that's feisty and is determined to be as independent as possible. She has had health issues since she was a child but that has not stopped her from opening her own cafe.
Since her brother Brady is a professional musician and has had stoker problems, he has bodyguards available to his family. One, in particular, is Marco, the hot and handsome one that seems to have taken a liking to Cassidy and her son, Chevelle. Cassidy needs to do workouts on a regular basis because of her health and Marco has volunteered to help her. She secretly wants Marco but does not act upon her feelings. The more they are together, the closer and closer they are to crossing the line from friends to lovers. When the father, Clayton, of Chevelle, shows up, who did not want Cassidy to have the child and paid her to have an abortion, she is furious. What happens when Marco sees the exchange between Cassidy and Clayton, what will he do? Will Cassidy accept his offer? Will she feel that he is crossing the line? Can they keep ignoring the pull that they have for each other?

Marco is the guy we all love. He is sweet, rugged, and an ex-military man who feels that because of his family and his past, he is not deserving of happiness and love. He was hired to be Brady's bodyguard, but he also started to be Cassidy's personal trainer and then her trainer/friend. He has had feelings for her since day one, but he will not act upon them because she is his boss's sister and his because of his past. Marco is very good at his job and will do anything to protect Cassidy and Chevelle. They are his world, but he doesn't let anyone know how he feels. He takes matters into his own hands when Chevelle's sperm donor shows up, but were his actions received with open hands by Cassidy? When he is called home because his foster mother ends up in the hospital, he is stuck between helping her and his brother or staying and protecting Cassidy and Chevelle? Can he accept the fact that he is worth Cassidy's affections? Will he open his heart and let the wall down?

Tripped by Love is definitely one that you need to add to your TBR list. This is the first one in this series that I have read, and I am going to get the rest of the series and have a great time binging them. Thank you L.J. for yet another amazing story that has us feeling all the feels. I cannot wait for the next installment.

[Paulalovesherbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book to start the year with. Laura has a way of writing a story that leaves your heart full . Cassidy and Marco deserve the golden couple title. Their relationship transition from his boss little sister to tentative friendship , while both having feelings they refuse to acknowledge or act upon. But when the father of her sweet little boy comes to her doorstep , Marco reads the room and stepped up to pretend to be he boyfriend.
I'm not one to claim book boyfriends, but I want to do that with Marco. He is a protector , everything he does it's with other people's well being in mind, while having the twisted thought that he doesn't deserve to be happy.
Cassidy is a character LJ wrote so well , I know many women will find inspiration in her. She was born with a condition making her feel vulnerable and frustrated with her parents behavior , while also thankful for their care and love , so she works hard to overcome it and be independent, her son being her biggest motivation.
I don't remember ever reading about characters who have so many similarities, falling in love. It's usually opposite attract. Watching them fall in love, realizing that they also have the traits the person they love have and working toghether to overcome their insecurities was the most beautiful thing. The way Marco is with Chevelle is swoon worthy, he didn't try to be a presence or influence in his life, but from the little boys reaction to him, it shows that he understands the silent love Marco gave him.
They becoming a couple is on the slow burn side, I admit a time or two I was like... Please !!! Give in already!!! But the anticipation made it so much explosive when it finally happened. It might be a spoiler , but I'm so happy Laura didn't make them friends with benefits who then realize they need more. Marco draw the line at being intimate with a time expiration. I loved him for that.
For those who read Branded By A Song, you'll be happy to visit with Grand Orchard and beloved characters from there. I love it when previous characters make a presence in a book, but don't overshadow the main ones , Laura does write lovely people.
There're also hints of the new series she's planning to write!!!

[BookAddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

From where I stand, Charmıng and the Cherry Blossom is the best-ever work from this gifted storyteller. After reading Cassidy and Marco's story, I may need to rethink that position. It seems like with each new book, she raises the bar even higher.

Forbidden romance lovers, here’s your jam! We met Cassidy, country music sensation Brady O'Neil's younger sister, in Brady's book and now she gets her own HEA. And it's with none other than Brady's bodyguard Marco. You know, tall, dark, handsome and mysterious Marco. Even if you saw it coming, you’re so not ready for this story!

Bless their hearts, Cassidy and Marco seem to have everything stacked against any potential romance between them. She's a single mom who owns her own business and has constant challenges with a health issue. Of course to Marco, his boss's sister is completely off limits, and as much as he yearns for his own family, he believes it's not in the cards for him.

These two together, gah! They’re so amazing. Marco with his quiet strength and clear devotion to Cassidy changes from a tough protector to a soft, cuddly teddy bear when it comes to Cassidy's son. And Cassidy, well there’s so much to like and admire about her. She's smart, kind, and giving and so determined.

The thing I love most about this one is the message of family, both found and by birth. Then Evans gives us not one but two suspense elements that kept my eyes glued to the page. I read late into the night so I could finish this in one sitting. It was impossible to put down! Full of heart, a little steam and humor, and so much heartwarming sweetness, you'll love every second you spend in this unforgettable, unputdownable, phenomenal read!

[Anne OK · Rating 4 out of 5]

I became aware of this standalone novel by L.J. Evans after I had started reading the first book in the new five-book Painted Daisies Series by her. I’m thankful for the reviewer who tipped readers to the fact that “Tripped By Love” acts as a launchpad for the Painted Daisies stories that takes place a couple years later.

Not only was I able to benefit from the additional information but I also loved reading this wonderful story and meeting Marco, Cassidy and little Chevelle. Turns out, I was easily drawn into their friends-to-lovers romance that held so many emotions. And I don’t have to say good-bye to them yet because they’ll be making appearances in the Painted Daisies books, as well.

[Julie D (Audio and Book Jewels) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing story of healing.

What if you were attracted to someone but, because of circumstances in your past, you felt like you were unworthy of being loved? Even when that person loves you back.

And… what if your life was so busy that you felt like you didn’t have enough to give someone else? Even though it’s all you really want.

Marco is on Cassidy’s brothers security team, and Cassidy has been included in the security plans since Brady moved back to their hometown. He works out with Cassidy to help her keep her strength up, but he doesn’t view her the way her family does. Her medical condition,although serious, does not define her in his eyes. The more time he spends with her and her son, the more he wants… but he’s not good enough for her in his eyes.

Cassidy has her son, a restaurant to run and that’s about all she can handle at the moment. She loves her time with Marco, and longs for more, but she feels like she doesn’t have enough time to give to him. Her brother gave her the money to open her restaurant, but she feels indebted, and wants to pay him back. He viewed it as a gift, but she did not.

As both of them struggle with feelings of not being enough…. Their relationship begins to change. Each of them begin to realize how the other is thinking. Cassidy learns about his past, but can she make him see that it’s different than what he sees?

This book is deep and full of feelings of inadequacy on both sides. But it’s also a story of deep, strong, passionate love that brings two people together and strengthens their lives. You want to read this, I promise! LJ Evans is extremely good at what she does, and this…. Is one of the best!

[slfeissner · Rating 5 out of 5]

With every book I read by LJ Evans, I am even more in awe of her ability to weave a story together. She creates such wonderful, relatable characters and so skillfully builds the worlds they live in that these characters and their communities will stay with you long after you have finished the book. Tripped by Love is a new favorite to add to my list of books I won't be able to let go of.

Cassidy and Marco are so many of the things I love in a really good romance book. Cassidy is a strong, capable sunshiny heroine, a single mother who has made a wonderful life for herself and her son, despite the physical obstacles of her condition. Marco is a broody protector, an emotionally damaged hero who doesn't feel worthy of love. Both have a strong love of family, and the community of people who become family. What an incredible story this was, seeing them overcome the obstacles they thought were keeping them apart so they could open themselves up to the family they could be together.

"We'd somehow found our way together through a sea of loss and heartache, and now we were bound together by love and family."

This beautifully written book and its fabulous characters will stay with me for a long time.

*I received an ARC at my request.

[KristieReadsBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book by LJ Evans. This is a slow burn, friends to lovers, brothers friend, military background, single mom - wonderfulness all in one story.

LJ writes her characters so beautifully that you are emotionally attached throughout the entire book. I actually read this in one setting because it was so good!! This story will take your heart on a ride as you will feel joy, sadness, hurt, fear, heat and so many other emotions.

Cassidy is a hard working, single mom to the cutest little guy, Chavelle. She is trying to prove she can do it all and make sure she pays back her debts. Her heart is big and she is very talented…but she doesn’t have room/time for a relationship.

Marcos is a hot, ex-military bodyguard that works for Cassidy’s brother Brady. He is carrying around some baggage that he needs to work through so he can move on and be happy in his life. He want to help/protect everyone else but does not give himself the same grace.

Cassidy and Marcos have known each other for many years and are friends but know it can never be more. However, when a threat toward Cassidy comes to light, Marcos is the first one by her side.

I love that there are so many crossover characters in this book and we get small snippet updates on their lives. :). Also, the supporting cast of characters in this book are fabulous, loving and committed to each other.

Congratulations, LJ on another fabulous book!

I requested an arc and I am providing my honest review.

[Debbie Humpage-Gibbons · Rating 5 out of 5]

The more I read LJ’s books, the more I love them and this book is no exception.
The story can be read as a standalone but there are characters from previous books by the author (ones I haven’t read but are now on my TBR list)
The book tells the story of Cassidy and Marco’s love and as always the things that may hinder their relationship.
Cassidy is a single mom and she is was born with an extra X-chromosome and hypotonia (making her prone to falling). This has meant all her life her family has been overprotective of her and she longs for someone to love her for the strong woman she is and not be seen as weak.
Unknown to Cassidy, Marco has longed for her ever since he started working for her brother and up until now they have been more of acquaintances than friends.
The story moves along with them becoming friends and talking to each other about things they wouldn’t tell their closest family and friends. So you get a sense of their affection for each other but along with that also comes their want and lust for each other.
There are lots of factors that come to play in the plot that effects their relationship development.
As with all of LJ’s books that I’ve read the secondary characters have quality and depth to them and bring more to the story. Cassidy’s son Chevelle is a particular favourite of mine and is the star of his scenes.
This book has everything from it being a friends to lovers, single mom, military background, music inspired and disabilities. There’s a wide range of subjects that are given a voice in this story and I thank LJ for championing them in her writing.
I am looking forward to Jonas’ story.
This review was written after receiving an ARC copy of the book from the author.

[Leanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not sure how or why but the characters that LJ Evans writes always ALWAYS burrow into my heart and just stay there. Every time. This book is certainly no different. Cassidy, Marco, Jonas, Chevelle, and all the secondary characters are so rich and deep that they are no longer characters in a book. They feel like family. One big messy, amazing family.
Cassidy's resilience and strength in spite of her diagnosis is awe inspiring. It's hard for her to ask for or accept help because she doesn't want to be perceived as weak. It's truly beautiful to watch her learn that leaning on someone else can actually make you stronger. Together. Marco is broken. Things from his past won't allow him to open himself to love. Until Cassidy won't take no for an answer. Her strength lets him be vulnerable enough to share his past, and start to heal the wounds. Together.
As always, LJ starts each chapter with a line or 2 from a song. And as always, they don't just perfectly fit, they actually add another layer to the story.
While this book is a stand alone, I highly recommend reading the rest of the Anchor Novels. Each and every one is full of resilience, acceptance, family, and love.
I am so glad that I started 2022 with this book. It filled my heart with joy and left me with a feeling of hope that has been missing for a while. Thank you to LJ for that!

[Me_myself_and_romance_ Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved the this book. It’s sweet, slow burn, funny and just passionate. I couldn’t put this book down and when I did I swooned over Marco. Marco is the body guard for Cassidy’s rockstar brother but these two have this sweet friendship that builds and builds. The more time they spend together the more you see the attraction between them. Marco is such a beautiful, broken and deep soul that has so many layers to him and protects those he loves with everything and pretends to be Cassidy’s boyfriend to protect her from her past but what he doesn’t realize is how much he really wants to be a part of her and her life and keeps denying what has always been there. I felt every sort of emotion that the author tried to bring to this book and relationship between all the characters. Everything fit in so perfectly and I need more from this series. It has all the feels you need in a romance book. It’s not simple and is layered. The development of their relationship is enough to keep you reading more and more until they can’t deny their feelings. It’s intense and make me scream at them but in the end it left me smiling because they are just beautiful together.

I received an arc to give an honest opinion.

[Lissete · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassidy and Marco have know each other for a while given that he’s her brother’s bodyguard (the brother is a big shot country star). Cassidy is a single mom and owns a restaurant so needless to say she doesn’t have much time left for anything else, EXCEPT she works out with Marco every night 😉(she has hypotonia due to a genetic condition). Marco is a former military man, who’s main focus is work and helping Cassidy (yeah, he’s crushing hard 😉).
Anyways, this pair is always thinking they don’t deserve the each other, that they’re not worthy. She thinks she’s an obligation, a responsibility to him. He thinks he’s not good enough for her. Frustrating it’s an understatement BUT it makes up for one amazing ride!
I absolutely loved this friends to lovers romance. They both are so strong and trustworthy, I absolutely loved their connection! Their love is easy, I hope it makes sense. The way they support each other is goals!!
I also love the connection with music, there’s a song for each chapter and it definitely helps set the mood. Love, love, love!

[April Raimond · Rating 4 out of 5]

good

Cassidy is a single mom doing it all on her own. Owns a restaurant by herself. Marco is her brothers best friend. They have feelings for each other but have pasts that will make them second guess love. Will true feelings outweigh the past?

[Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassidy and Marco might be my new favorite couple! Cassidy is surrounded by overprotective loved ones who want to swaddle her in bubble wrap, due to her extra X chromosome and hypotonia that makes her fall easily. She longs to find a man who loves her for who she is as a woman with a strong, independent spirit. Marco is a strong, stoic man with misplaced guilt from from his past that makes him think he’s undeserving of love. As someone born with a disability, I can totally relate with Cassidy on the desire to find someone who can look past it, and dealing with overprotective family. I sure would love to find a Marco!😂 LJ’s characters are always top notch. We see more of Brady, Tristan, and Hannah, as well as little Chevelle, who often steals the show. While learning more about Marco, we meet Jonas and Maliyah, who introduce other interesting plot lines. The book has a clear villain (I won’t say who), with an interesting twist towards the end. This story is classic LJ Evans with song lyrics for each chapter, great characters, witty banter, sizzling chemistry, intriguing storylines, and a variety of emotions!! This book is a must read!! I can’t wait for Jonas’ story!!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.