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Henry Brothers #1
Unraveled
A marriage of convenience can test even the best of friends.
Holden Henry is every girl’s dream—kind, funny, outgoing. A catch in every sense. Despite my wrong-side-of-the-tracks upbringing, he’s been my friend forever. He has no idea I’ve had more-than-friends feelings for him for years, and I intend to keep it that way.
When I’m forced to return to the small town where we grew up, I’m faced with a big, fat problem. Being a good pal, Holden offers me a too-tempting solution: a marriage of convenience. It’s a crazy plan…but I’m desperate enough to try it. Besides, he’s not just saving me; we’ll be helping each other.
The catch? We have to stay married for a year. But once I inherit the company of my dreams and Holden launches his own start-up, we can go back to being just friends, right? Except…what if he figures out that I’ve been in love with him forever? Worse, what if I have to choose between the career I’ve always wanted and the man I can’t live without?
Welcome to Dragonfly Lake, a small town on a picturesque lake in Tennessee, where the waters run deep, the neighbors are nosy, and love is in the air. Unraveled is a stand-alone story in the Henry Brothers series.
The Henry Brothers series includes:
Untold (prequel)
Unraveled
Unsung
Undone
Holden Henry is every girl’s dream—kind, funny, outgoing. A catch in every sense. Despite my wrong-side-of-the-tracks upbringing, he’s been my friend forever. He has no idea I’ve had more-than-friends feelings for him for years, and I intend to keep it that way.
When I’m forced to return to the small town where we grew up, I’m faced with a big, fat problem. Being a good pal, Holden offers me a too-tempting solution: a marriage of convenience. It’s a crazy plan…but I’m desperate enough to try it. Besides, he’s not just saving me; we’ll be helping each other.
The catch? We have to stay married for a year. But once I inherit the company of my dreams and Holden launches his own start-up, we can go back to being just friends, right? Except…what if he figures out that I’ve been in love with him forever? Worse, what if I have to choose between the career I’ve always wanted and the man I can’t live without?
Welcome to Dragonfly Lake, a small town on a picturesque lake in Tennessee, where the waters run deep, the neighbors are nosy, and love is in the air. Unraveled is a stand-alone story in the Henry Brothers series.
The Henry Brothers series includes:
Untold (prequel)
Unraveled
Unsung
Undone
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 8, 2022
606 people are currently reading
814 people want to read
About the author
Amy Knupp
105 books592 followersAmy Knupp is a USA Today Best-Selling author of contemporary romance and a freelance copy editor. She loves words and grammar and meaty, engrossing stories with complex characters.
Amy lives in Wisconsin with her husband, and has two sons, four cats, and a box turtle. She graduated from the University of Kansas with degrees in French and journalism. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, breaking up cat fights, watching college hoops, and annoying her family by correcting their grammar.
Amy lives in Wisconsin with her husband, and has two sons, four cats, and a box turtle. She graduated from the University of Kansas with degrees in French and journalism. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, breaking up cat fights, watching college hoops, and annoying her family by correcting their grammar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
August 9, 2023
This is book 1 in Amy Knupp’s Henry Brothers series. While you can enjoy this without it - the prequel Untold is a sweet intro to Holden & Chloe as well as the Henry family.
Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes. I also thought Knupp’s approach to setting up a Fake Marriage was unique and made for a really interesting dynamic between two lifelong friends willing to help make each other’s dreams come true. I connected with Chloe growing up in a small town and how being poor can paint a constant target on your back. Holden was sweet and determined - in life and with Chloe. I loved their growth as individuals and the realization that the two of them belonged together.
Awesome HEA … and I loved the epilogue. Looking forward to more of the Henry Brothers.
Narration:
Kelsey Navarro Foster and Teddy Hamilton were great as Chloe and Holden. Foster’s narration of Chloe’s insecurities was especially poignant. Hamilton brought a great balance to Holden. Wonderful listen.
While I borrowed a copy of the ebook via KoboPlus, I received an advanced copy of the audiobook from Home Cooked Books and am leaving an honest review.
Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes. I also thought Knupp’s approach to setting up a Fake Marriage was unique and made for a really interesting dynamic between two lifelong friends willing to help make each other’s dreams come true. I connected with Chloe growing up in a small town and how being poor can paint a constant target on your back. Holden was sweet and determined - in life and with Chloe. I loved their growth as individuals and the realization that the two of them belonged together.
Awesome HEA … and I loved the epilogue. Looking forward to more of the Henry Brothers.
Narration:
Kelsey Navarro Foster and Teddy Hamilton were great as Chloe and Holden. Foster’s narration of Chloe’s insecurities was especially poignant. Hamilton brought a great balance to Holden. Wonderful listen.
While I borrowed a copy of the ebook via KoboPlus, I received an advanced copy of the audiobook from Home Cooked Books and am leaving an honest review.
August 8, 2023
Audiobook Review
Now we all know that if Teddy Hamilton narrates it, there’s a very good chance I’ll love it. Kelsey Navarro Foster all did a terrific job of Chloe’s narration. They couldn’t have been cast more perfectly.
Unraveled is a sweet and fun fake-dating/engaged friends to lovers romance. This was my first of Amy’s books, and I’m really glad I gave it a go! It’s the first in a series and I can wait to listen to the rest!
Now we all know that if Teddy Hamilton narrates it, there’s a very good chance I’ll love it. Kelsey Navarro Foster all did a terrific job of Chloe’s narration. They couldn’t have been cast more perfectly.
Unraveled is a sweet and fun fake-dating/engaged friends to lovers romance. This was my first of Amy’s books, and I’m really glad I gave it a go! It’s the first in a series and I can wait to listen to the rest!
December 15, 2023
Okay. Here's the thing...
I can't stand it when the fmc not wanting kids is portrayed as a character flaw that needs to be changed and is part of the overall character arc (meaning she doesn't want children in the beginning of the story and then wants them or is pregnant by the end). I was excited at first to see an fmc that was childfree at the beginning of the book. But when her boss made this big speech about how life was sooooo unfulfilling without children of her own I knew I was going to be let down.
Not wanting children is perfectly valid. It's not a freaking flaw or something that needs to be "fixed" in order for the fmc to be happy or find love. But this cliched trope is everywhere in the romance genre, unfortunately. Authors need to start writing childfree characters differently. If the characters don't want kids, they don't want kids. Having them not wanting to be a parent then suddenly recognizing the error of their ways is not only a tired cliche, but it's insulting to childfree people who are forever told that "you'll change your mind."
Do better.
I can't stand it when the fmc not wanting kids is portrayed as a character flaw that needs to be changed and is part of the overall character arc (meaning she doesn't want children in the beginning of the story and then wants them or is pregnant by the end). I was excited at first to see an fmc that was childfree at the beginning of the book. But when her boss made this big speech about how life was sooooo unfulfilling without children of her own I knew I was going to be let down.
Not wanting children is perfectly valid. It's not a freaking flaw or something that needs to be "fixed" in order for the fmc to be happy or find love. But this cliched trope is everywhere in the romance genre, unfortunately. Authors need to start writing childfree characters differently. If the characters don't want kids, they don't want kids. Having them not wanting to be a parent then suddenly recognizing the error of their ways is not only a tired cliche, but it's insulting to childfree people who are forever told that "you'll change your mind."
Do better.
June 13, 2025
The couple: Holden and Chloe
Romance trope: fake relationship
Series: Henry Brothers
Length: 272 pages
Plot: Holden and Chloe have been friends for a long time, so when Chloe's boss says that she won't leave her company to Chloe because she has no work-life balance, Holden jumps in with a fake engagement to prove the boss otherwise. The fake engagement leads to a real marriage, though, and while Holden and Chloe are enjoying getting to know each other in a new way, her boss is not so amused by the deception.
Commentary: Her boss was (and I feel a little bad saying this, since she was newly diagnosed with an aggressive cancer and was headed downhill fast) a total jerk. You want someone to be completely dedicated to the company but have a family that they spend more of their time with, solving all the business problems and traveling to do so but being at home with the kids. She couldn't see how what she wanted wasn't even physically possible? And then when Chloe tried to give it to her, she was mad that Chloe didn't tell her - her boss - all the bits of her personal life? Horrible.
But Chloe was almost worse. She was so ashamed of her family and tried to couch it in terms of having been bullied for being poor and worrying about how the family would be received. Something was wrong with that girl. It doesn't sound like she was bullied at all. It sounds like there were a couple of mean girls - like there are everywhere - and that she got it in her head that the whole town hated her and looked down on her and so she stayed away. She absolutely was ashamed of her parents and that was so sad because other people weren't. They weren't ashamed of their circumstances. How sad for Chloe that she missed out on all that time with them, but even sadder that she missed some vita life lessons that would have allowed her to be so much more resilient.
Previous book in the series: Untold
Next book in the series: Unsung
Romance trope: fake relationship
Series: Henry Brothers
Length: 272 pages
Plot: Holden and Chloe have been friends for a long time, so when Chloe's boss says that she won't leave her company to Chloe because she has no work-life balance, Holden jumps in with a fake engagement to prove the boss otherwise. The fake engagement leads to a real marriage, though, and while Holden and Chloe are enjoying getting to know each other in a new way, her boss is not so amused by the deception.
Commentary: Her boss was (and I feel a little bad saying this, since she was newly diagnosed with an aggressive cancer and was headed downhill fast) a total jerk. You want someone to be completely dedicated to the company but have a family that they spend more of their time with, solving all the business problems and traveling to do so but being at home with the kids. She couldn't see how what she wanted wasn't even physically possible? And then when Chloe tried to give it to her, she was mad that Chloe didn't tell her - her boss - all the bits of her personal life? Horrible.
But Chloe was almost worse. She was so ashamed of her family and tried to couch it in terms of having been bullied for being poor and worrying about how the family would be received. Something was wrong with that girl. It doesn't sound like she was bullied at all. It sounds like there were a couple of mean girls - like there are everywhere - and that she got it in her head that the whole town hated her and looked down on her and so she stayed away. She absolutely was ashamed of her parents and that was so sad because other people weren't. They weren't ashamed of their circumstances. How sad for Chloe that she missed out on all that time with them, but even sadder that she missed some vita life lessons that would have allowed her to be so much more resilient.
Previous book in the series: Untold
Next book in the series: Unsung
August 10, 2023
First in the series (there is a prequel but it's not necessary).
I am a sucker for a friends to lovers story. When one of them has been pining for half their life, even more so. The moment when the one that doesn't see it, finally sees the other... it's such a warm fuzzy moment for me. Holden's lightbulb moments were fantastic.
Chloe needs a fake boyfriend to appease her boss/mentor and gain the opportunity of a lifetime to run her dream business. And of course Holden is happy to help. But when Holden kisses Chloe for the first time (so they can be comfy in front of others) it starts things on a whole new path. She's been in love with him for years... but he only saw her as a friend. And then... it all changes and I was there for it.
From fake dating into marriage of convenience, these two are holding nothing back. Everyone sees it, except maybe them. Until it's time to face the music and decide if they want to make everything as real as the feelings they both have.
This audiobook was performed by Kelsey Navarro Foster and Teddy Hamilton. I loved Kelsey's performance as Chloe. There was so much emotional range for her to explore and take me along on the journey. From childhood trauma and insecurities due to social class/financial status, to in charge boardroom boss babe running the job site for the new hotel. From pining for Holden, to a romantic honeymoon where the lines are blurred, to everything being so real and then emotionally crushed when the bottom falls out from under her... Chloe is a complex character and I had so much fun listening to her. Teddy is amazing as the best friend with all the puns, to the seductive yet supportive husband and then the way he gives her space yet still watches out for her. Once he was in, he was in and Teddy just gave it to me.
I could listen to these two all day every day and be a very happy gal.
I requested and was provided with an advanced copy of the audiobook. These are my honest opinions.
I am a sucker for a friends to lovers story. When one of them has been pining for half their life, even more so. The moment when the one that doesn't see it, finally sees the other... it's such a warm fuzzy moment for me. Holden's lightbulb moments were fantastic.
Chloe needs a fake boyfriend to appease her boss/mentor and gain the opportunity of a lifetime to run her dream business. And of course Holden is happy to help. But when Holden kisses Chloe for the first time (so they can be comfy in front of others) it starts things on a whole new path. She's been in love with him for years... but he only saw her as a friend. And then... it all changes and I was there for it.
From fake dating into marriage of convenience, these two are holding nothing back. Everyone sees it, except maybe them. Until it's time to face the music and decide if they want to make everything as real as the feelings they both have.
This audiobook was performed by Kelsey Navarro Foster and Teddy Hamilton. I loved Kelsey's performance as Chloe. There was so much emotional range for her to explore and take me along on the journey. From childhood trauma and insecurities due to social class/financial status, to in charge boardroom boss babe running the job site for the new hotel. From pining for Holden, to a romantic honeymoon where the lines are blurred, to everything being so real and then emotionally crushed when the bottom falls out from under her... Chloe is a complex character and I had so much fun listening to her. Teddy is amazing as the best friend with all the puns, to the seductive yet supportive husband and then the way he gives her space yet still watches out for her. Once he was in, he was in and Teddy just gave it to me.
I could listen to these two all day every day and be a very happy gal.
I requested and was provided with an advanced copy of the audiobook. These are my honest opinions.
August 12, 2023
In author Amy Knupp’s new series, the Henry Brothers, comes a sensually sweet friends to lovers romance with a taste of spice and side of a marriage of convenience in the first book Unraveled. This is the story of Chloe, the executive vice president of boutique hotel company, and Holden, her long-time friend.
When Chloe is informed by her boss that she has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and will be turning over the reins and naming an heir to the company to either her, a workaholic with a lack of a personal life, or her married co-worker. As her boss decides who to leave the company to, she tasks Chloe to finish up the construction of a hotel in her hometown of Dragonfly Lake. In order to fool her boss into giving her the company, Chloe and her long-time best friend Holden come up with a plan to fake a relationship and in turn a marriage. In exchange for marrying her, Chloe plans to invest the desired amount into Holden’s dream of opening up his own brewery. But will this marriage of convenience last past the due date set?
This was my first book by Amy Knupp, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a story with so much heart. It left me feeling all the feelings and I can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series. Unraveled is narrated by Teddy Hamilton and Kelsey Navarro-Foster. These two couldn’t have been cast more perfectly. I loved listening to these together and I want more from them as a duo.
When Chloe is informed by her boss that she has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and will be turning over the reins and naming an heir to the company to either her, a workaholic with a lack of a personal life, or her married co-worker. As her boss decides who to leave the company to, she tasks Chloe to finish up the construction of a hotel in her hometown of Dragonfly Lake. In order to fool her boss into giving her the company, Chloe and her long-time best friend Holden come up with a plan to fake a relationship and in turn a marriage. In exchange for marrying her, Chloe plans to invest the desired amount into Holden’s dream of opening up his own brewery. But will this marriage of convenience last past the due date set?
This was my first book by Amy Knupp, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a story with so much heart. It left me feeling all the feelings and I can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series. Unraveled is narrated by Teddy Hamilton and Kelsey Navarro-Foster. These two couldn’t have been cast more perfectly. I loved listening to these together and I want more from them as a duo.
July 24, 2023
**Audiobook Review**
I can tell that I’m going to love these Henry Brothers and I can’t wait for the rest of this series. “Unraveled” is a sweet, steamy and heartfelt friends to lovers with a side of marriage of convenience romance that was a great start to this series.
Chloe has devoted all of her time to her career and has thrived. But when the owner of the company she works for is diagnosed with cancer, she informs Chloe that she will be passing the company onto her or another coworker. Her boss makes it very clear that she regrets having a full time career and never making time for a family. Sensing that this could help her, she asks her longtime friend, Holden Henry to be her fake boyfriend. But knowing how important this is to her, he ups the ante and offers to marry her. What Holden doesn’t know is that Chloe has always had a crush on him and as they agree to spend 1 year married, feelings start to come out.
I loved that the author offered the prequel on her website so we can get a little taste for all the brothers and see how these two reignited their friendship. Both had grown up in Dragonfly Lake and had been lifelong friends. Chloe had grown up on the poorer side so having financial stability was important to her. I think she focused a little too much on that at first but I understood where she was coming from. Her heart was in the right place when it came to wanting to help her parents out as much as she could. Chloe is smart, kind and a genuine person. I loved Holden and how he was willinging to help Chloe without any hesitation. His passion was getting his brewery started and that shined through in what kind of person he was. The two had great chemistry and I could feel it as I listened. Their past made their friendship real and the natural transition to a real relationship which didn’t feel forced or fake. The ending was super cute and wrapped up their story beautifully.
Teddy Hamilton and Kelsey Navarro-Foster were so great as Holdent and Chloe. I love both individually and it was so great listening to them together. They brought all of the emotions and genuine personalities of the characters to life perfectly.
I can tell that I’m going to love these Henry Brothers and I can’t wait for the rest of this series. “Unraveled” is a sweet, steamy and heartfelt friends to lovers with a side of marriage of convenience romance that was a great start to this series.
Chloe has devoted all of her time to her career and has thrived. But when the owner of the company she works for is diagnosed with cancer, she informs Chloe that she will be passing the company onto her or another coworker. Her boss makes it very clear that she regrets having a full time career and never making time for a family. Sensing that this could help her, she asks her longtime friend, Holden Henry to be her fake boyfriend. But knowing how important this is to her, he ups the ante and offers to marry her. What Holden doesn’t know is that Chloe has always had a crush on him and as they agree to spend 1 year married, feelings start to come out.
I loved that the author offered the prequel on her website so we can get a little taste for all the brothers and see how these two reignited their friendship. Both had grown up in Dragonfly Lake and had been lifelong friends. Chloe had grown up on the poorer side so having financial stability was important to her. I think she focused a little too much on that at first but I understood where she was coming from. Her heart was in the right place when it came to wanting to help her parents out as much as she could. Chloe is smart, kind and a genuine person. I loved Holden and how he was willinging to help Chloe without any hesitation. His passion was getting his brewery started and that shined through in what kind of person he was. The two had great chemistry and I could feel it as I listened. Their past made their friendship real and the natural transition to a real relationship which didn’t feel forced or fake. The ending was super cute and wrapped up their story beautifully.
Teddy Hamilton and Kelsey Navarro-Foster were so great as Holdent and Chloe. I love both individually and it was so great listening to them together. They brought all of the emotions and genuine personalities of the characters to life perfectly.
August 9, 2023
Thanks to Home Cooked Books for the ALC of this beautiful story & the chance to give my candid review.
UnRAVELED by Amy Knupp
(book 1 in the Henry brothers series)
Bookfunnel link to subscribe and get free audiobook prequel/novella UnTOLD https://dl.bookfunnel.com/ste3kr8vdp .
Narrated by Teddy Hamilton & Kelsey Navarro Foster
Story Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5
Audiobook Rating: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 (0-5)
Overall Rating: 4.75/5
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 The sultry voices of the narrators go so well with all the sneaky tropes but with hints of love, support, and internal sweetness.
🤩 Delicious details described in Teddy Hamilton’s voice—I’m not sure it gets better than this. ❤️🔥🔥🌶️
🤩 Make no mistake—Kelsey’s husky voice is quite the match. 🤤 🥵
🤩 These tropes never get old for me: small-town, fake dating, marriage of convenience, childhood friends-to-lovers, one bed, and more below.
🤩 So very punny—Chloe and Holden are the cutest. I just love their Hoppy/Hoppily Ever After!!!
🤩 Secret pining.
🤩 Let’s make a deal, where they both really just care and want to help the other person.
🤩 Frisky fake kisses & physical attraction.
🤩 Married with benefits, one bed, and steamy goodness. When they finally give in to enjoying each other in all the ways.
🤩 “Get off my wife.”
🤩 “I never got my wedding dance.” “Let’s give everyone a show.”
🤩 Dear friends (side characters) who tell you like it is.
🤩 When they let each other in, not just physically but emotionally as well.
🤩 Take me to the Rusty Anchor Brewery. I hope they learn to cider making, too.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 The end is adorable, but I would have liked a little officially real steam—it helps me believe in the HEA.
💫 You might need to buy some Twizzlers to get through this one. Swipe to see what it made me buy. My kids don’t ever mind my books that cause cravings.
UnRAVELED by Amy Knupp
(book 1 in the Henry brothers series)
Bookfunnel link to subscribe and get free audiobook prequel/novella UnTOLD https://dl.bookfunnel.com/ste3kr8vdp .
Narrated by Teddy Hamilton & Kelsey Navarro Foster
Story Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5
Audiobook Rating: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 (0-5)
Overall Rating: 4.75/5
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 The sultry voices of the narrators go so well with all the sneaky tropes but with hints of love, support, and internal sweetness.
🤩 Delicious details described in Teddy Hamilton’s voice—I’m not sure it gets better than this. ❤️🔥🔥🌶️
🤩 Make no mistake—Kelsey’s husky voice is quite the match. 🤤 🥵
🤩 These tropes never get old for me: small-town, fake dating, marriage of convenience, childhood friends-to-lovers, one bed, and more below.
🤩 So very punny—Chloe and Holden are the cutest. I just love their Hoppy/Hoppily Ever After!!!
🤩 Secret pining.
🤩 Let’s make a deal, where they both really just care and want to help the other person.
🤩 Frisky fake kisses & physical attraction.
🤩 Married with benefits, one bed, and steamy goodness. When they finally give in to enjoying each other in all the ways.
🤩 “Get off my wife.”
🤩 “I never got my wedding dance.” “Let’s give everyone a show.”
🤩 Dear friends (side characters) who tell you like it is.
🤩 When they let each other in, not just physically but emotionally as well.
🤩 Take me to the Rusty Anchor Brewery. I hope they learn to cider making, too.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 The end is adorable, but I would have liked a little officially real steam—it helps me believe in the HEA.
💫 You might need to buy some Twizzlers to get through this one. Swipe to see what it made me buy. My kids don’t ever mind my books that cause cravings.
August 14, 2023
*Audiobook Review* This is my first Amy Knupp book, but it certainly won't be my last! I'm a total sucker for a friends to lovers/fake relationship book and Unraveled did not disappoint. Chloe and Holden were so adorable and spicy sweet together. I absolutely loved their story and the uber cute ending. I can't wait for more Henry family books.
Teddy Hamilton and Kelsey Navarro-Foster were perfectly cast. They brought so much heart, humor, and personality to Holden and Chloe. Perfection!
Teddy Hamilton and Kelsey Navarro-Foster were perfectly cast. They brought so much heart, humor, and personality to Holden and Chloe. Perfection!
May 8, 2022
Terrific friends-to-lovers romance. Once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down. The story is told from alternating points of view, switching back and forth from Chloe to Holden. I enjoyed this method because of the insight into the main characters' thoughts, feelings, and motivations, and this was no exception.
Chloe grew up in Dragonfly Lake. She was a shy girl from what many called the wrong side of the tracks. Bullied by some of the "mean girls," Chloe had one person she considered a friend - Holden Henry. Chloe couldn't put Dragonfly Lake behind her fast enough after graduating, but she and Holden remained friends. They kept their friendship going through texts, emails, and his occasional visits to Nashville. Now the Executive Vice President of a boutique hotel company, Chloe ends up back in Dragonfly Lake supervising the construction of a new hotel.
Holden also grew up in Dragonfly Lake except for a few years in middle school when his family moved away. He went back to live with his grandparents and finished high school there. He reconnected with Chloe, and it was as if they'd never been apart. Holden runs Henry's restaurant with his two brothers, Cash and Seth, but he has bigger dreams. He and his friend Kemp want to build a brewery to complement the restaurant. They've done the research and have the building but lack the start-up funds they need.
Chloe's life takes an unexpected turn when her boss is diagnosed with cancer and sets up a competition between Chloe and a coworker to see who will be named president and heir to the company. She then sets up specific stipulations, including requiring that Chloe put some balance in her life (she's a workaholic) by showing that she's in a successful relationship. Who else can Chloe turn to for help but Holden? I loved Holden's immediate willingness to step up and be her "fake boyfriend." When her boss, Angelica, exhibits skepticism about the relationship, Holden dives into the deception and claims they just got engaged. I loved how Chloe and Holden sat down and talked about the decision to get married and the ramifications for each of them. Chloe worries that Holden is sacrificing too much for no gain, so she offers to invest in his brewery. She also insists on an expiration date for the marriage, believing that one year should be enough to seal the deal.
Chloe's biggest concern is coming out of their deal with her heart intact. She's been in love with Holden for years, and living with him will cement those feelings. Holden is utterly clueless about Chloe's feelings for him and still sees her as his friend. That is until he sees her in her wedding dress and suddenly notices what a beautiful woman she is. Holden's off-hand comment about wishing the wedding night was real gets Chloe thinking about not missing out on what she's been dreaming about for years. This step is the first in a journey that takes Chloe and Holden where they never expected to go.
I loved watching the relationship between Chloe and Holden develop. Though they've been friends for a long time, being married exposes their fears and insecurities. Holden is aware of Chloe's feelings of inferiority from her childhood but doesn't realize how deep those feelings are at first. I loved his support of Chloe and her dreams and how he encouraged her to let go of her fears and reach out to others. Meanwhile, Holden feels that he's not pulling his weight in the family business without having his brewery up and running. With Chloe's commitment to supporting his dream, he finally feels like a full partner. It was great to see how the deception began to feel real and right as they spent time together as husband and wife. But each of them is reluctant to risk their friendship by confessing the change in their feelings.
Then comes betrayal and disaster. The confrontation with her boss broke my heart for Chloe, but I loved how she stood up for herself and gave Angelica an earful. However, the whole scene did a number on Chloe's belief in herself. I ached for her as she pushed Holden away though I also wanted to shake her for not accepting his comfort and support. I hurt for Holden, who finally realized the depth of his feelings for Chloe. I liked Chloe's realization of her mistake, her self-examination, and the advice she got from her friend Presley and what she did with it. The twist at the end was unexpected, and I loved what it meant for her future. Her big scene with Holden was emotional and romantic.
The epilogue was terrific. It was sweet to see how Chloe surprises Holden. I'm also intrigued by the short scene with Seth and suspect that it is the lead-in to the next book. I can't wait!
I liked the secondary characters of Holden's brothers, Seth and Cash. I'm looking forward to reading their stories. Cash seems wound a little tight, so it will be interesting to see who loosens him up. I'd also like to see Holden's partner Kemp get a story. He impressed me with his cautions to Holden regarding his marriage - he could see the pitfalls. I also enjoyed seeing more of Hayden (Holden's sister) and Zane from True Hero. I loved that couple, and it's neat to see how they are doing.
Chloe grew up in Dragonfly Lake. She was a shy girl from what many called the wrong side of the tracks. Bullied by some of the "mean girls," Chloe had one person she considered a friend - Holden Henry. Chloe couldn't put Dragonfly Lake behind her fast enough after graduating, but she and Holden remained friends. They kept their friendship going through texts, emails, and his occasional visits to Nashville. Now the Executive Vice President of a boutique hotel company, Chloe ends up back in Dragonfly Lake supervising the construction of a new hotel.
Holden also grew up in Dragonfly Lake except for a few years in middle school when his family moved away. He went back to live with his grandparents and finished high school there. He reconnected with Chloe, and it was as if they'd never been apart. Holden runs Henry's restaurant with his two brothers, Cash and Seth, but he has bigger dreams. He and his friend Kemp want to build a brewery to complement the restaurant. They've done the research and have the building but lack the start-up funds they need.
Chloe's life takes an unexpected turn when her boss is diagnosed with cancer and sets up a competition between Chloe and a coworker to see who will be named president and heir to the company. She then sets up specific stipulations, including requiring that Chloe put some balance in her life (she's a workaholic) by showing that she's in a successful relationship. Who else can Chloe turn to for help but Holden? I loved Holden's immediate willingness to step up and be her "fake boyfriend." When her boss, Angelica, exhibits skepticism about the relationship, Holden dives into the deception and claims they just got engaged. I loved how Chloe and Holden sat down and talked about the decision to get married and the ramifications for each of them. Chloe worries that Holden is sacrificing too much for no gain, so she offers to invest in his brewery. She also insists on an expiration date for the marriage, believing that one year should be enough to seal the deal.
Chloe's biggest concern is coming out of their deal with her heart intact. She's been in love with Holden for years, and living with him will cement those feelings. Holden is utterly clueless about Chloe's feelings for him and still sees her as his friend. That is until he sees her in her wedding dress and suddenly notices what a beautiful woman she is. Holden's off-hand comment about wishing the wedding night was real gets Chloe thinking about not missing out on what she's been dreaming about for years. This step is the first in a journey that takes Chloe and Holden where they never expected to go.
I loved watching the relationship between Chloe and Holden develop. Though they've been friends for a long time, being married exposes their fears and insecurities. Holden is aware of Chloe's feelings of inferiority from her childhood but doesn't realize how deep those feelings are at first. I loved his support of Chloe and her dreams and how he encouraged her to let go of her fears and reach out to others. Meanwhile, Holden feels that he's not pulling his weight in the family business without having his brewery up and running. With Chloe's commitment to supporting his dream, he finally feels like a full partner. It was great to see how the deception began to feel real and right as they spent time together as husband and wife. But each of them is reluctant to risk their friendship by confessing the change in their feelings.
Then comes betrayal and disaster. The confrontation with her boss broke my heart for Chloe, but I loved how she stood up for herself and gave Angelica an earful. However, the whole scene did a number on Chloe's belief in herself. I ached for her as she pushed Holden away though I also wanted to shake her for not accepting his comfort and support. I hurt for Holden, who finally realized the depth of his feelings for Chloe. I liked Chloe's realization of her mistake, her self-examination, and the advice she got from her friend Presley and what she did with it. The twist at the end was unexpected, and I loved what it meant for her future. Her big scene with Holden was emotional and romantic.
The epilogue was terrific. It was sweet to see how Chloe surprises Holden. I'm also intrigued by the short scene with Seth and suspect that it is the lead-in to the next book. I can't wait!
I liked the secondary characters of Holden's brothers, Seth and Cash. I'm looking forward to reading their stories. Cash seems wound a little tight, so it will be interesting to see who loosens him up. I'd also like to see Holden's partner Kemp get a story. He impressed me with his cautions to Holden regarding his marriage - he could see the pitfalls. I also enjoyed seeing more of Hayden (Holden's sister) and Zane from True Hero. I loved that couple, and it's neat to see how they are doing.
August 5, 2023
I enjoyed this one a lot - Unraveled (and the prequel Untold) is the first of Knupp's books I've read (listened to)! I'm not sure why I waited so long, because I've been eyeing her catalogue for what seems like forever, only to discover that Unraveled was just incredible. Steamy, brilliant writing, amazing storyline. Perfection! I can't wait to continue the Henry Brothers series, and go back to the North Brothers.
Chloe and Holden have a great friendship, and he steps in to help her out with a marriage of convenience in order to earn the company she wants to run when her boss falls ill... when she needs to rely on the friendship that she's always hidden extra feelings in, and has to spend a year in the small town she grew up in and never planned to return to, Dragonfly Lake, while the hotel project she's overseeing is built. Holden can't believe his luck in being able to participate in this plan, either. Both of them might want to continue it beyond the year they agreed to...
It was a great listen, narrated by two of my faves, Teddy Hamilton and Kelsey Navarro Foster. Both did a fantastic job as always, and are voices I know that I love and can be trusted with any title they read. 5-stars to them, and 5-stars to Amy Knupp for this book. An absolute top recommendation from me!
I received an advance listen copy from Home Cooked Books PR, and this is my honest review.
Chloe and Holden have a great friendship, and he steps in to help her out with a marriage of convenience in order to earn the company she wants to run when her boss falls ill... when she needs to rely on the friendship that she's always hidden extra feelings in, and has to spend a year in the small town she grew up in and never planned to return to, Dragonfly Lake, while the hotel project she's overseeing is built. Holden can't believe his luck in being able to participate in this plan, either. Both of them might want to continue it beyond the year they agreed to...
It was a great listen, narrated by two of my faves, Teddy Hamilton and Kelsey Navarro Foster. Both did a fantastic job as always, and are voices I know that I love and can be trusted with any title they read. 5-stars to them, and 5-stars to Amy Knupp for this book. An absolute top recommendation from me!
I received an advance listen copy from Home Cooked Books PR, and this is my honest review.
August 11, 2023
We meet Holden and Chloe in the prequel- Untold - their complete story kicks off The Henry Brothers Series.
Holden and Chloe have been friends for many years and would do anything to help one another. That is put to the test when they both need one another’s help in order to help them reach their life goals. A fake marriage is born and as time progresses …feelings, that have been there for years…are finally exposed.
These are two delightful characters with big hearts, fantastic personalities and who are driven to be successful. Their love story is sweet, selfless and special.
Teddy Hamilton and Kelsey Navarro Foster deliver fabulous performances! They being perfect emotion, personality and voice to each of the characters. Bravo.
Holden and Chloe have been friends for many years and would do anything to help one another. That is put to the test when they both need one another’s help in order to help them reach their life goals. A fake marriage is born and as time progresses …feelings, that have been there for years…are finally exposed.
These are two delightful characters with big hearts, fantastic personalities and who are driven to be successful. Their love story is sweet, selfless and special.
Teddy Hamilton and Kelsey Navarro Foster deliver fabulous performances! They being perfect emotion, personality and voice to each of the characters. Bravo.
July 18, 2023
I really enjoyed this story. I like listening to a story every now again about a gentle love story, with little to no angst, and this just fit the bill.
This is #1 of the Henry Brothers series and was a good follow up to the novella #0.5 Untold, which introduced us to Chloe and Holden, who was just too good to be true! What a really nice guy! 👏
This book, which can be read as a standalone, follows Chloe and the problems she encounters with her seriously ill boss and has to turn to Holden, her best childhood friend (and with whom she has had a crush on forever) for help, which turns out to be the best thing for both of them.
The only part that I felt was rather overplayed was Chloe coming from the "wrong side of the tracks" and her ill founded insecurity which made her incredibly selfish and I felt really sorry for her loving parents who she treated really badly for so long.
I'm really looking forward to hearing all about the rest of the Henry clan and will be interested if they can top Holden for being the hunk of the series!
I was sent a free book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review
#marriageofconvenience
#bestfriends
#amyknupp
#unraveled
#teddyhamilton
#kelseynavarrofoster
#dualnarration
#homecookedbooks
This is #1 of the Henry Brothers series and was a good follow up to the novella #0.5 Untold, which introduced us to Chloe and Holden, who was just too good to be true! What a really nice guy! 👏
This book, which can be read as a standalone, follows Chloe and the problems she encounters with her seriously ill boss and has to turn to Holden, her best childhood friend (and with whom she has had a crush on forever) for help, which turns out to be the best thing for both of them.
The only part that I felt was rather overplayed was Chloe coming from the "wrong side of the tracks" and her ill founded insecurity which made her incredibly selfish and I felt really sorry for her loving parents who she treated really badly for so long.
I'm really looking forward to hearing all about the rest of the Henry clan and will be interested if they can top Holden for being the hunk of the series!
I was sent a free book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review
#marriageofconvenience
#bestfriends
#amyknupp
#unraveled
#teddyhamilton
#kelseynavarrofoster
#dualnarration
#homecookedbooks
September 10, 2025
This was an okay read, I enjoyed it but it wasn’t a page turner.
August 14, 2023
Audiobook Review
4.5 stars
Unraveled (and Untold) was my first Amy Knupp book and she did not disappoint. In Untold, the prologue to the series, we get to meet all the Henry’s and Chloe and it’s a little snippet of how their love story begins.
Holden is sweet, social and caring, probably a little lost in where he fits in the world; Chloe is all smart and business like but an introvert. Both have been friends forever. I loved how both kept their essence in the end whilst also bringing the best out of each other.
Teddy Hamilton was the perfect voice for Holden. Kelsey Navarro-Foster did a brilliant job voicing Chloe and bring all the good, and less good, out of her character.
4.5 stars
Unraveled (and Untold) was my first Amy Knupp book and she did not disappoint. In Untold, the prologue to the series, we get to meet all the Henry’s and Chloe and it’s a little snippet of how their love story begins.
Holden is sweet, social and caring, probably a little lost in where he fits in the world; Chloe is all smart and business like but an introvert. Both have been friends forever. I loved how both kept their essence in the end whilst also bringing the best out of each other.
Teddy Hamilton was the perfect voice for Holden. Kelsey Navarro-Foster did a brilliant job voicing Chloe and bring all the good, and less good, out of her character.
May 9, 2022
I have been waiting for this series to start since I finished reading, "True Hero" from Amy Knupp's series, "The North Brothers." If you read "True Hero", you know that the main female character was Hayden Henry. Her family owns a restaurant on Dragonfly Lake, about an hour from Nashville. In that story, we are introduced to the rest of the Henry family - Hayden's brothers and father. "Unraveled" is Holden Henry's story.
As the youngest brother, Holden has hard time living up to his two older brothers' success. He feels like he just hasn't found his niche in life and is waiting for his dream of a brewery to happen. One of his best friends from childhood is Chloe Abrams. Chloe grew up in a trailer on the wrong side of the tracks and was always picked on and made fun of by the popular girls . Though now a very successful businesswoman, those scars from her childhood still give her a feeling of inadequacy - one that keeps her from returning home to visit her parents or to even run the risk of running into someone from her past. Holden needs money to make his dream come true. Hayden needs to convince her boss that she is more that just her job. Together, they form a plan that will help them both get what they want.
Knupp has created good, likable characters. I immediately knew I was going to like Holden. He wasn't the playboy with the bad reputation that you have to give a few chapters before you like him. He is the good guy with a lot of friends who only ever have positive things to say about him. Knupp's depiction of Holden makes it easy to relate to him not feeling like he contributes equally to the family business. I also like the way Knupp wrote the character of Chloe. To me, she was more complex than Holden. She had more baggage to deal with from her past but it didn't make her a weak female that makes you dislike her. Her own inner strength and Holden's encouragement made them a great team. The story moves easily with several laugh out loud moments involving "puns". I also loved the way Knupp carried over several of the characters from her other books. It's like visiting with old friends again.
I really enjoyed this story and look forward to the next book in the series.
I received and ARC for an honest review.
As the youngest brother, Holden has hard time living up to his two older brothers' success. He feels like he just hasn't found his niche in life and is waiting for his dream of a brewery to happen. One of his best friends from childhood is Chloe Abrams. Chloe grew up in a trailer on the wrong side of the tracks and was always picked on and made fun of by the popular girls . Though now a very successful businesswoman, those scars from her childhood still give her a feeling of inadequacy - one that keeps her from returning home to visit her parents or to even run the risk of running into someone from her past. Holden needs money to make his dream come true. Hayden needs to convince her boss that she is more that just her job. Together, they form a plan that will help them both get what they want.
Knupp has created good, likable characters. I immediately knew I was going to like Holden. He wasn't the playboy with the bad reputation that you have to give a few chapters before you like him. He is the good guy with a lot of friends who only ever have positive things to say about him. Knupp's depiction of Holden makes it easy to relate to him not feeling like he contributes equally to the family business. I also like the way Knupp wrote the character of Chloe. To me, she was more complex than Holden. She had more baggage to deal with from her past but it didn't make her a weak female that makes you dislike her. Her own inner strength and Holden's encouragement made them a great team. The story moves easily with several laugh out loud moments involving "puns". I also loved the way Knupp carried over several of the characters from her other books. It's like visiting with old friends again.
I really enjoyed this story and look forward to the next book in the series.
I received and ARC for an honest review.
May 17, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
What an awesome start to a series. I loved how this series is a spin off of the North Brothers and even mention of a few characters of Hale Street. All of these characters felt like old friends when I was reading their stories so I felt like I was able to get caught up with them again.
Chloe is EVP working for an international boutique hotel company. She is summoned to her hometown by her boss as that is the location of a new hotel for them. Her boss has terminal cancer and tells Chloe that she wants Chloe to finish up the construction on this particular location. The boss is trying to determine who should feel her shoes when she passes. It is between workaholic Chloe and a married Gloria. Chloe doesn't have a personal life as she has lived for the company.
To fool her boss, Chloe and her oldest and dearest BFF, Holden Henry, decide to marry for a year to help secure the promotion. Holden works in the family restaurant but dreams of opening a brewery with his friend. Unfortunately they are lacking an investor to help launch the new brewery. To help compensate Holden for his help, Chloe funds the brewery with enough cash to put them into business.
Will this marriage of convenience, last past the due date Chloe and Holden put on it? Will Chloe get past her unease of her hometown? Can these two get past a few hurdles that crop up from time to time?
This is a delightful story that will warm your heart and give a few chuckles here and there. This is a sexy read just so you know. Also this story is written in a dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into the character's thoughts, really help me to better understand and enjoy the characters. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
What an awesome start to a series. I loved how this series is a spin off of the North Brothers and even mention of a few characters of Hale Street. All of these characters felt like old friends when I was reading their stories so I felt like I was able to get caught up with them again.
Chloe is EVP working for an international boutique hotel company. She is summoned to her hometown by her boss as that is the location of a new hotel for them. Her boss has terminal cancer and tells Chloe that she wants Chloe to finish up the construction on this particular location. The boss is trying to determine who should feel her shoes when she passes. It is between workaholic Chloe and a married Gloria. Chloe doesn't have a personal life as she has lived for the company.
To fool her boss, Chloe and her oldest and dearest BFF, Holden Henry, decide to marry for a year to help secure the promotion. Holden works in the family restaurant but dreams of opening a brewery with his friend. Unfortunately they are lacking an investor to help launch the new brewery. To help compensate Holden for his help, Chloe funds the brewery with enough cash to put them into business.
Will this marriage of convenience, last past the due date Chloe and Holden put on it? Will Chloe get past her unease of her hometown? Can these two get past a few hurdles that crop up from time to time?
This is a delightful story that will warm your heart and give a few chuckles here and there. This is a sexy read just so you know. Also this story is written in a dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into the character's thoughts, really help me to better understand and enjoy the characters. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
May 10, 2022
I loved Chloe and Holden in Unraveled by Amy Knupp, book one in her new Dragonfly Lake series, a beautiful story that combines marrying your best friend in a marriage of convenience with a small-town romance where everybody knows you better than you know yourself. Chloe Abrams had been avoiding going back home but she had to when her boss put her in charge of finishing their latest project in her hometown of Dragonfly Lake, where her best friend Holden Henry still lived. Chloe needed a husband for work and Holden needed an investor to help with his dream to start a brewery. So maybe they could help each other by convincing everyone in town that they were in love and not a marriage of convenience to help each other out without falling in love. The major problem is that Chloe has secretly loved Holden for years. As these two live together in Holden’s small house they become supportive of each other, while dealing with their own insecurities; from their pasts.
Ms. Knupp wrote an emotional, wonderful, heartwarming romance with an amazing small town vibe that kept me turning the pages as I followed Chloe and Holden’s relationship as they learn what’s really important in life, before it’s too late. She provided a tale rich with magnetic attraction, sizzling chemistry, clever banter, and charming characters giving Chloe and Holden a chance at love, happiness, and a future neither expected. I highly recommend Unraveled to other readers and look forward to the next book in this series and see what happens to the other Henry brothers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. Knupp wrote an emotional, wonderful, heartwarming romance with an amazing small town vibe that kept me turning the pages as I followed Chloe and Holden’s relationship as they learn what’s really important in life, before it’s too late. She provided a tale rich with magnetic attraction, sizzling chemistry, clever banter, and charming characters giving Chloe and Holden a chance at love, happiness, and a future neither expected. I highly recommend Unraveled to other readers and look forward to the next book in this series and see what happens to the other Henry brothers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
May 8, 2022
Let me start by saying you need to read the free short story UnTold before reading this book.
He will give you in sight to the relationship between Chloe and Holden.
When Chloe is given an eyeopener from her boss, a very determined uptight, demanding woman
her life is turned upside down. Who else would she turn to then her best friend Holden. They have known each other over twenty years since they were eight. Holden would do anything for her so to help her with this new problem he accidentally has them getting pretend marriage !!
They both want certain things in their life's. He and his partner have been trying to get investors to start up their own brewery. Chloe wants to take over the company she has given twelve years of her life too. With this new plan both should get way they want. Unfortunately, neither thought about the closeness of living together. With their emotions getting the best of them, the nasty boss trying to get between them. Add in brother, friends, a small town where everyone has known both of them since they were kids. This was such a great building love story. I love the way Amy wrote it so we could see what both Chloe and Holden were thinking about the other.
I have read a ton of Amy's books and none of them will disappoint you. I know am going to love this new series. Am ready for the next book about Seth.
I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
He will give you in sight to the relationship between Chloe and Holden.
When Chloe is given an eyeopener from her boss, a very determined uptight, demanding woman
her life is turned upside down. Who else would she turn to then her best friend Holden. They have known each other over twenty years since they were eight. Holden would do anything for her so to help her with this new problem he accidentally has them getting pretend marriage !!
They both want certain things in their life's. He and his partner have been trying to get investors to start up their own brewery. Chloe wants to take over the company she has given twelve years of her life too. With this new plan both should get way they want. Unfortunately, neither thought about the closeness of living together. With their emotions getting the best of them, the nasty boss trying to get between them. Add in brother, friends, a small town where everyone has known both of them since they were kids. This was such a great building love story. I love the way Amy wrote it so we could see what both Chloe and Holden were thinking about the other.
I have read a ton of Amy's books and none of them will disappoint you. I know am going to love this new series. Am ready for the next book about Seth.
I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
May 9, 2022
Unraveled is the first book in the new Henry brothers series. Chloe and Holden have been friends for most of their lives and kept in touch in spite of the fact that Chloe has not been back to their hometown in 16 years, even though her parents still live there. Chloe was the smart bookworm who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks and was bullied, although she is now a successful VP. Holden is one of three brothers who own a bar and restaurant in their hometown. Holden’s dream is to open a brewery on a property they own near the restaurant.
When Chloe’s boss sends her to oversee the completion of the boutique hotel in her hometown, with stipulations that might lead to her becoming the new president of the corporation, Chloe and Holden enter into a marriage of convenience from which they will both benefit, and both end up facing insecurities from the past and ultimately their feelings for each other.
This was a wonderful story, and I loved the characters who were well developed, very real and I feel as if I have met Holden’s brothers, the people they both grew up with and actually visited the town. I loved the way it ended and I’m looking forward to reading Cash and Seth’s book and hope best friend Presley gets an HEA also!
I have read many of Amy Knupp’s books and they are all worth reading.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
When Chloe’s boss sends her to oversee the completion of the boutique hotel in her hometown, with stipulations that might lead to her becoming the new president of the corporation, Chloe and Holden enter into a marriage of convenience from which they will both benefit, and both end up facing insecurities from the past and ultimately their feelings for each other.
This was a wonderful story, and I loved the characters who were well developed, very real and I feel as if I have met Holden’s brothers, the people they both grew up with and actually visited the town. I loved the way it ended and I’m looking forward to reading Cash and Seth’s book and hope best friend Presley gets an HEA also!
I have read many of Amy Knupp’s books and they are all worth reading.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Read
May 10, 2022OVERALL RATING – 5
RECOMMENDED FOR: lovers of: fake marriage/marriage of convenience; friends to lovers; family series
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is the first of what will be a series (to my understanding)
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was new to me
BOOK:
- Cover adequately reflects the story (and I love that)
- Genre/troupe: contemporary romance
- 1st person, alternating POV
- I’m going to guess that other characters will have their own stories in the future
- Main characters’ story is concluded
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
• Writing Quality: 5 stars
• Story ingredient: 5 stars
• Ease of reading/Pace: 5 stars
• Plot strength: 5 stars
• Steam Level 4 and high on romance; there are open door scenes
Notes/Opinion (personal):
This is a new author to me, one which I’ll have to locate her library.
Holden and Chloe are longtime friends. An ultimatum leads to a marriage of convenience and Holden and Chloe eventually discover that the best of friends also can turn into the love of a lifetime.
I loved this opener and related well to Chloe and her insecurities. It was an easy, light read with a bit of an unexpected ending before the HEA.
RECOMMENDED FOR: lovers of: fake marriage/marriage of convenience; friends to lovers; family series
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- Read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
- This is the first of what will be a series (to my understanding)
- No errors that I caught as far as editing.
- The author was new to me
BOOK:
- Cover adequately reflects the story (and I love that)
- Genre/troupe: contemporary romance
- 1st person, alternating POV
- I’m going to guess that other characters will have their own stories in the future
- Main characters’ story is concluded
Star Ratings - 1 (poor) - 5(READ THIS BOOK)
• Writing Quality: 5 stars
• Story ingredient: 5 stars
• Ease of reading/Pace: 5 stars
• Plot strength: 5 stars
• Steam Level 4 and high on romance; there are open door scenes
Notes/Opinion (personal):
This is a new author to me, one which I’ll have to locate her library.
Holden and Chloe are longtime friends. An ultimatum leads to a marriage of convenience and Holden and Chloe eventually discover that the best of friends also can turn into the love of a lifetime.
I loved this opener and related well to Chloe and her insecurities. It was an easy, light read with a bit of an unexpected ending before the HEA.
May 10, 2022
Chloe and Holden have been friends since they were eight years old. Chloe never fit in with her peers in Dragonfly Lake. She was bullied by the mean girls and hated being there. Holden supported her and stood up for her when other kids made her life miserable. Is it any wonder that she’s always harbored a secret crush on Holden. She’d never act on it because it wouldn’t be worth losing their friendship. This makes it all the more difficult when circumstances lead to a fake marriage. How will she manage to conceal the way she really feels about Holden? As their relationship progress, Holden sees his old childhood friend in a totally new light and the progression from friends to lovers is lovely to see. Aside from the romance aspect, it’s interesting to see the affect that bullying can have on a person many years later when they’ve become successful in life. In spite of money and success, they revert to that painfully awkward child. Seeing Chloe overcome this aspect of her past was very uplifting. Also, we see that even the people we think have it all together may have their own hidden insecurities. There was a little bit of drama, but it gets resolved fairly quickly. I loved Holden and Chloe and the epilogue was hilarious.
Thank you, Amy Knupp, for providing me with an ARC. This is my honest review.
Thank you, Amy Knupp, for providing me with an ARC. This is my honest review.
July 24, 2023
I loved this first book of this new series when I read it. A story that opens the door for what I am sure will be an all time favorite of many readers. But listening the audiobook, brought the story to life.
Holden Henry and his brothers Cash and Seth, own a restaurant bar in their hometown of Dragonfly Lakes. Holden wants to branch out with a brewery but funds are hard to come.
Chloe was his best friend since elementary school and even if she’s not living in town, their friendship has continued.
Chloe was the shy, bookworm from the wrong side of the tracks and the one frequently bullied by the “mean girls”.
Nowadays, Chloe is VP of a hotelier builder and is back in town after many years to prove to her boss that she should be the new president and not her co-worker.
But when stipulations surface, they decide to help each other. How? By having a marriage of convenience. What happens when feelings occur?
This story was a great start to the series that promises many more wonderful stories.
The narrators Kelsey Navarro Foster and Teddy Hamilton did a wonderful job with their narrations.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Holden Henry and his brothers Cash and Seth, own a restaurant bar in their hometown of Dragonfly Lakes. Holden wants to branch out with a brewery but funds are hard to come.
Chloe was his best friend since elementary school and even if she’s not living in town, their friendship has continued.
Chloe was the shy, bookworm from the wrong side of the tracks and the one frequently bullied by the “mean girls”.
Nowadays, Chloe is VP of a hotelier builder and is back in town after many years to prove to her boss that she should be the new president and not her co-worker.
But when stipulations surface, they decide to help each other. How? By having a marriage of convenience. What happens when feelings occur?
This story was a great start to the series that promises many more wonderful stories.
The narrators Kelsey Navarro Foster and Teddy Hamilton did a wonderful job with their narrations.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
June 1, 2022
So many possibilities...!!
I love the first book in a new series. I love it more when it is a spin-off of a prior series by an author I like. This book is exactly that. And simply filled with possibilities for the future.
Chloe was the bulied shy nerdy girl in high school that never fit in with any crowd. Holden was the complete antithesis but still held her as a best friend. She couldn't shake the dust off fast enough and never looked back. He stayed in the same small town. Now they are back together in that town, fake-married to each other, so they can both secure their dreams for the future.
There is a considerable amount of necessary exposition to introduce the town's existing relationships. A huge cast of characters that makes this community feel "real" and, at the same time, opens virtually limitless options for mixing & matching, rivalries, new options and community growth. Especially with two new businesses opening in the town. I am excited to see where events will lead us and how many of Dragonfly's residents find their own HEAs.
I received an ARC copy of this story from the author via BookFunnel and voluntarily chose to share my review.
I love the first book in a new series. I love it more when it is a spin-off of a prior series by an author I like. This book is exactly that. And simply filled with possibilities for the future.
Chloe was the bulied shy nerdy girl in high school that never fit in with any crowd. Holden was the complete antithesis but still held her as a best friend. She couldn't shake the dust off fast enough and never looked back. He stayed in the same small town. Now they are back together in that town, fake-married to each other, so they can both secure their dreams for the future.
There is a considerable amount of necessary exposition to introduce the town's existing relationships. A huge cast of characters that makes this community feel "real" and, at the same time, opens virtually limitless options for mixing & matching, rivalries, new options and community growth. Especially with two new businesses opening in the town. I am excited to see where events will lead us and how many of Dragonfly's residents find their own HEAs.
I received an ARC copy of this story from the author via BookFunnel and voluntarily chose to share my review.
April 30, 2022
I couldn’t get enough of Holden and Chloe! This book was a page turner and a must read. Friends since they were in school, when they were younger, Holden and Chloe have a special bond. Both are career driven and will do anything to succeed. When their marriage of convenience comes into play-Chloe was trying to become head of Marks International (you’ll find out when you read why) and Holden was trying to open a brewing company, they lay down what they are expecting from each other. They are going to be married 12 months and go about their individual lives as friends afterwards. That didn’t last long. You’ll understand why after reading. The chemistry between the two is electric and mind blowing. Can a possible forever be something these two get in the end? I was definitely rooting for them every step of the way. They had some challenges along the way, but both are strong and determined to accomplish whatever comes their way. This book brought some happy tears in the end though. I couldn’t be happier at how Holden and Chloe’s story ended.
May 9, 2022
Brilliant Story!
My first read from this author, and I am exceptionally pleased! Chloe grew up in a small time known best for being the “janitor’s daughter”. When she left, it was to concentrate on her career, so she never had to be embarrassed or bullied again.
Suddenly called back to her small town, where a new resort is being built. The owner of the company is ill, has no heirs, and is deciding between two candidates; Chloe and another. Chloe does not have a family and the owner doesn’t want her to fall into the same trap that she did.
Holden Henry has been her best friend forever - he doesn’t know she has loved him all that time. When he learns of her dilemma, he offers a fake marriage, which will be beneficial to them both. Chloe agrees, and helps him achieve a dream also. How do you fake a marriage with a man you love?
Exceptional character development and backstory. Entertaining relationship development, and an unexpected result when all is revealed. A fabulous story.
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
My first read from this author, and I am exceptionally pleased! Chloe grew up in a small time known best for being the “janitor’s daughter”. When she left, it was to concentrate on her career, so she never had to be embarrassed or bullied again.
Suddenly called back to her small town, where a new resort is being built. The owner of the company is ill, has no heirs, and is deciding between two candidates; Chloe and another. Chloe does not have a family and the owner doesn’t want her to fall into the same trap that she did.
Holden Henry has been her best friend forever - he doesn’t know she has loved him all that time. When he learns of her dilemma, he offers a fake marriage, which will be beneficial to them both. Chloe agrees, and helps him achieve a dream also. How do you fake a marriage with a man you love?
Exceptional character development and backstory. Entertaining relationship development, and an unexpected result when all is revealed. A fabulous story.
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
April 29, 2022
Can a man and a woman have a friendship without romane?
And after there is a romance, can that life long friendship still exist?
Chloe Abrams has been secretly in love with her best friend Holden Henry for years. When a business opportunity arises to help both Chloe and Holden with the catch that they must remain married for one year and then divorce, can she set her feelings for Holden aside and make this deal to help her best friend?
Can Holden ask this of his best friend and not develop stronger feelings for Chloe and still have their friendship intact after the year is over?
This friends to lovers story is so well written. Amy Knupp has become my favorite romance writer as her stories flow so smoothly. From the North brother family now marrying into the Henry brothers family, (don't miss reading Untold, the prequel to this book) her books are just so wonderful. Thank you Amy for the ARC. It was a treasure for me to read.
Kathy Austin
And after there is a romance, can that life long friendship still exist?
Chloe Abrams has been secretly in love with her best friend Holden Henry for years. When a business opportunity arises to help both Chloe and Holden with the catch that they must remain married for one year and then divorce, can she set her feelings for Holden aside and make this deal to help her best friend?
Can Holden ask this of his best friend and not develop stronger feelings for Chloe and still have their friendship intact after the year is over?
This friends to lovers story is so well written. Amy Knupp has become my favorite romance writer as her stories flow so smoothly. From the North brother family now marrying into the Henry brothers family, (don't miss reading Untold, the prequel to this book) her books are just so wonderful. Thank you Amy for the ARC. It was a treasure for me to read.
Kathy Austin
May 9, 2022
5 stars
I received a free copy of the full-length romance Unraveled: The Henry Brothers book 1 by Amy Knupp and this review was given freely.
While I became emersed in the characters and the story, I enjoyed Holden and Chloe’s playful banter, watching Holden realize the depth of his feelings, and the heartwarming ending the most.
Easy flowing with realistic characters, irony, humor, the supportive town of Dragonfly Lake, a touch of steamy, a rocky lifelong friends/ love finally realized romance and an intriguing lead into a sequel.
When tragedy results in a chance for Chloe Abrams to attain the prized position as President of Marks International Hotels, she returns to the town of her unhappy childhood with an elaborate scheme involving her lifelong friend, brewery startup hopeful, and family restaurateur Holden Henry.
Contains the dark undercurrents of fighting brain cancer, bullying, and low self-esteem.
I received a free copy of the full-length romance Unraveled: The Henry Brothers book 1 by Amy Knupp and this review was given freely.
While I became emersed in the characters and the story, I enjoyed Holden and Chloe’s playful banter, watching Holden realize the depth of his feelings, and the heartwarming ending the most.
Easy flowing with realistic characters, irony, humor, the supportive town of Dragonfly Lake, a touch of steamy, a rocky lifelong friends/ love finally realized romance and an intriguing lead into a sequel.
When tragedy results in a chance for Chloe Abrams to attain the prized position as President of Marks International Hotels, she returns to the town of her unhappy childhood with an elaborate scheme involving her lifelong friend, brewery startup hopeful, and family restaurateur Holden Henry.
Contains the dark undercurrents of fighting brain cancer, bullying, and low self-esteem.
May 10, 2022
This story has so many of the things I look for in a good read - it made me feel a range of emotions, friends-to-lover, small town, family dynamics, and of course, a love story. Holden Henry appears to have it all. He's outgoing, loved by many people, confident, and the type of person who would do anything for his friends. If Dragonfly Lake had a railroad track, then Chloe Abrams would have lived on the wrong side. And once she left town, she didn't have any plans to return. Until she's asked to take over the development of the new Marks hotel in Dragonfly Lake.
But then Chloe needs to be married. And Holden agrees to a marriage of convenience. What can go wrong? Except he has her move in with him. And then things get really interesting. As the days go by, they learn more things about each other, support each other, and oh my, the chemistry. These two are just perfect for each other. I didn't want this story to end.
But then Chloe needs to be married. And Holden agrees to a marriage of convenience. What can go wrong? Except he has her move in with him. And then things get really interesting. As the days go by, they learn more things about each other, support each other, and oh my, the chemistry. These two are just perfect for each other. I didn't want this story to end.
May 11, 2022
Chloe has been in love with her best friend for years but never said anything. Holden has contentment with his best friend and has no idea of her true feelings, but would do anything for her. Chloe is a workaholic, determined and focused on her career, but then she is thrown when her boss tells her that she would need to be married. Holden works with his brothers and is trying to set up his brewery, but needs an investor.
Chloe offers to be his secret investor in turn for a 1 year marr of convenience.
A marriage of convenience becomes a marriage with benefits that neither expected could lead to so much more. Holden realises he is in love with Chloe and they each secretly remind themselves that it is limited...until it is tested and truth is revealed with the best outcome possible.
Looks like the Henry brothers series will be as good as the North brothers, especially as the family is united by marriage of the father and mother.
Excellent start to a new series
Chloe offers to be his secret investor in turn for a 1 year marr of convenience.
A marriage of convenience becomes a marriage with benefits that neither expected could lead to so much more. Holden realises he is in love with Chloe and they each secretly remind themselves that it is limited...until it is tested and truth is revealed with the best outcome possible.
Looks like the Henry brothers series will be as good as the North brothers, especially as the family is united by marriage of the father and mother.
Excellent start to a new series
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