Fourth Wheel

Hampton Hearts #3

by Abby Millsaps

MADDIE

I’ll admit it: I knew exactly who he was when I walked into The Oak that night.

I probably should have just left him alone. But I was bored. And he’s gorgeous, just like his brother. How was I supposed to resist?

The kiss we shared was scorching hot. But it was nothing compared to the intensity of his anger when he realized who I was, and who I’m related to.

His hostility fuels me. His resistance makes me push harder. He made this into a game I’m determined to win.

Whether he likes it or not, I’ve officially set my sights on Dempsey Haas.

DEMPSEY

He called her Fourth Wheel. There was a familiarity between them that should have told me she was off limits. But there was just something about that girl.

Something familiar.

Something forbidden.

Something so damn tempting.

Her timing is impeccable. I’ve never felt more lonely or listless in my life.

I’m not looking for a relationship, or even a fling. Especially not with someone seven years younger who happens to be related to the two people my brother hates most.

But the way my entire body responded to her when she pushed me against that clock tower and kissed me? That’s a moment that’ll stay with me forever.

I had my fun. Now I have to lock it down.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Enemies To Lovers, Contemporary Romance, Forbidden Romance, Emotional, Age Gap Romance

330 pages, ebook

First published July 21, 2022

About the author

Abby Millsaps is an author and storyteller who's been obsessed with writing romance since middle school. In eighth grade, she failed to qualify for the Power of the Pen State Championships because all her submissions contained the same theme: young people falling in love. #LookAtHerNow

She's best known for writing unapologetically angsty romance that causes emotional damage for her readers. Abby prides herself in writing authentic characters while weaving mental health, chronic illness, and neurodiverse representation into the fabric of her stories.

Abby met her husband at a house party the summer before her freshman year of college. He had a secret pizza stashed in the trunk of his car that he was saving for a midnight snack—how was she supposed to resist that level of golden retriever energy and preparedness? When Abby isn't writing, she's reading, traveling, and raising her three daughters.

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Reviews

[Krystal - nerdy_book_lover_1987 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Abby Millsaps book and I can tell you right now it won't be my last! I absolutely loved Maddie and Dempsey's story! He is a brooding, protective, she's mine type of guy and I was all here for it! I loved how they just vibed so perfectly together. And the spice.... 🥵 talk about getting steamy, plenty of smut to go around. This was such a good read and definitely recommend picking it up.

[Jess Brady · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review. *

First Abby made us work for Rhett & Tori's love story.
Then she gave us Jake & Cory with their unexpected love story.
And now it is Maddie and the Haas brother she never saw coming.

It is no secret that I have been team Fielding Haas since the very beginning, but Dempsey Haas might have just taken the top spot. Watch out Field, I think your brother just stole my heart.

As I have taken this journey through Abby's books there have only been glimpses of Maddie Wheeler. She was Rhett's little sister with enough sass to hold her own but with Fourth Wheel it is her time to shine and does she ever.

One of my favorite things about Dempsey and Maddie's relationship was from the very start their connection was undeniable. You could clearly see that their summer fling was going to be so much more than nights spent together to pass the time. Dempsey is the caretaker of his family and that really comes through when it comes to taking care of Maddie. His protective instinct was engaged with the first sign of trouble and that just really is nothing less than swoon worthy.

I feel like Maddie grew so much from the character we first saw at the start of this book. She started to fall for a man who had a lot of obligations and not once did she make him feel bad for that. Maddie was there by his side through all of it from the moment that Fielding got hurt and onwards she was just as much his protector as Dempsey was for her.

Then my sweet, damaged Fielding. I have to talk about him for a moment because this was very much a story of growth for him too. My love for him has never wavered and in this story, we really see that you can overcome your past. Even though he overcomes his past I am still holding out hope that he will get his story one day.

Fourth Wheel was fun, flirty, sexy and everything I love about a summer romance. Abby is already one of my favorite authors with the way she can tell the happiest of stories and still make you feel like your heart is about to beat right out of your chest. There are still so many stories for her to tell in this world and I am excited to read every single one of them!!

[veronica ☽ · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute, spicy read with a happily ever after! The age gap wasn’t too big, only 7 years, but it was taken a lot more seriously than it should’ve. She chased after him and flirted her way into his heart, despite knowing their relationship was forbidden because of his twin brother’s feud with her family. All they have is each other and the summer. I would’ve given this book 4 stars instead of 3 had every character’s last name not been mentioned over 50 times. By chapter 10, I think we know their names… *cue eye roll*

tw/ possible spoilers: death of a parent, substance abuse

[Mehtap · Rating 3 out of 5]

The words use and overall review shouldn’t reflect personally on the author or any other of her series and books.

Edited: It will never stop surprising me how authors bash reviewers for not praising a book they wrote, when is not mandatory to do so. This author went on bashing the reviewer who mentioned the clickbait use of the word underage (we know the only person who mentioned it was me) in a FB all author page/group, without knowing this reviewer has author friends in that group and had asked those same author friends if it was the correct word to use for such situations and agreed with me that it wasn't. The book wasn't of my liking for many more reasons. I had just come out of reading another book with the same type of desperate heroine and was over the top annoyed with the trope (if we should call it that). I also said I liked the Hero and his family situation but of course she didn't take that in count. I have many years of experience as a book blogger, I'm not easily impressed, I am a hard critic. I don't only read book for the sex scenes and read for the plot and for that reason I have caught many errors, One being an author mixing up her characters (saying B was drowning in book 2 when it was A drowning), a big name author forgetting to delete a name of a character (she was writing her les character as a male just deleting the male name and adding the female name when it was edited)Many more things, and yes I will keep on mentioning those errors on my reviews. Author's need to stop telling reviewers how to review the books they read, not everyone will give you a five star review or love your characters.

Original Review:
Everything happened to fast and that is not the type of books I look for. As I was reading for the first few sentences, and I was very hyped. The h age was not what I look for, but she was a firecracker, and I was liking it. Until she turns so fast into a desperate for the D girl. Her thoughts were just to get the H to do her, she had just met this dude, known him before but first time to actually had cross words. I hope this won't turn into a trend for h's because I swear has been the trope for the few books I recently have read. I didn't like her at all.
Our H was okay, and I liked his family drama which was what kept me reading.
Another reason this was a low rating was because I felt the underage trope was used wrongly, this was a college student who was in her 20's not a 17 year old. She was underage to drink but not for many other things. I felt to me like clickbait.
"I made out with (blank's) underage sister" who says that for a girl or guy who is just underage to drink!!
Overall, it wasn't for me.

[Helen Isabel · Rating 1 out of 5]

Maddie has a hard time accepting the word "No." When she wants something, she goes after it, and that's what happened when she laid her eyes on Dempsey. She had a free summer without her family around to see what she was up to, and she took full advantage of that.

Dempsey was best friends with Maddie's brother, but something made him choose between his Best Friend or his Twin brother. Maddie coming into the picture and trying to seduce him brought all those feelings to the surface again. Dating his ex-best friend's younger sister would hurt his twin brother, which was the last thing he wanted.

Dempsey tries to ignore Maddie for as long as possible but eventually gives in because the heart wants what it wants. This love story was sweet, dramatic and not my cup of tea. The plot was predictable, but if you want a book that is easy to follow, you might enjoy this more than I did.

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, I wanted to start by thanking Abby Millsaps for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest, spoiler-free review.


"She's mine. Mine to have. Mine to keep safe. Mine to protect at all costs."


I LOVED this book. Admittedly, I do wish that I had read all the other books first because it spoiled both of the other series (not a lot, but enough). I loved the "touch her and you die" vibes he gave off. Everything about Dempsey really just made my heart sing. I love him. So much. And his brother. ❤️❤️ Fielding may be kind of a douche sometimes, but he's got a heart of gold underneath it all and I hope he gets his own spin-off. Fingers crossed.


"You're my hope. You're my courage. You're my sunshine, ever-present and driving me forward, even on the darkest days."

[meg_chasing_pages · Rating 5 out of 5]

I jumped into this book blind, only knowing that it had age-gap themes and an interesting title (I mean, fourth wheel can mean so many different things in the romance genre 😉). I quickly realized that Dempsey and Maddie’s love story is set in a much bigger universe and, while it can be read as a standalone, I’m aching to read about the other support characters too. Thank goodness they have already been written!
Ok so back to Dempsey and Maddie and the tantalizing chemistry these two have. It’s insta-attraction and lust, with a perfect setup for a ONS until he finally realizes why everyone at the bar seemed to know this smoke show…and why the owner, Jake, was so adamant that no one serve her. She’s Maddie Wheeler, little sister to Rhett Wheeler and an absolute no-go zone. Dempsey’s twin, Fielding, may or may not be nursing a broken heart after falling in love with Maddie’s sister-in-law. Yikes.
But Maddie is all sass, and a feisty naughty girl. She’s determined to get to Dempsey - even if she has to be his dirty little secret. She gets it, no one can find out about them… especially not their brothers. And that would have lasted had she not stepped in to break up an unfair fight and save Fielding from eminent disaster. They could have played that off, though, had Dempsey not *also* staked a claim to protect Maddie from a would-be sexual assailant… by handing the goon his ass in a crowded bar room.
Salaciously, they give in. They agree to be together for the summer and it is hotter than the Fourth of July. Steam, spice, dirty talk, spit play! If you’ve got a taste for a little bit of alpha possession and protection, Dempsey is your ideal book boyfriend. And if you like a strong FMC who can handle herself, Maddie is your lady jam.
I couldn’t put this book down and I can’t wait to pick up the others in this booksphere. Plus side note, but I also really love that the author has both MF and MM romances set and explored in this small town… love is love!
Overall: 5 stars and a big thanks for bringing the heat early and often in the story!
Themes/tropes: age-gap, alpha, quiet/secret(ish)billionaire, star-crossed lovers, small town romance, BDE & “give me one more”

[Auj · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remembered how much I had enjoyed Full Out Fiend, Fielding's book, which was written after this one, and wanted to read another book by Abby.

I LOVED the beginning and the book's first half, though I felt the reason Dempsey thought they couldn't be together was a little dumb. I wish we learned more what went down between Fielding and Maddie's sister-in-law, but I guess I have to read a trilogy now to know why.

Even though Maddie dressed femininely, she gave me masculine vibes, whereas Dempsey had a more feminine personality if that makes sense. I liked how she owned her sexuality. Unlike most romance heroines, she wasn't a virgin and was originally looking for a bit of fun, maybe a one-night stand. Dempsey still rocked her world in bed as she had never orgasmed with a guy before. (On a side note, it'd be cool to read a romance where the heroine was sexually confident and had been with guys who had been good in bed before, they just weren't the One for her, whatever reason that might have been.)

I wish instead of the author telling us what they talked about after having sex, it had been written out as I would have liked to have known more about them, especially Dempsey.

To be honest, when I found out that the heroine was 20 and the hero 27, and how that's the same age gap between the guy I like and me (though I met him when he was 30 and I was 23), I thought that was so hot. Now I regret not meeting him sooner lol and making out with his 27-yr-old self when I was 20. For some reason, that's way hotter to me than 30 and 23, LOL. Even though I like him a lot, the idea of a man being in their thirties isn't hot to me. But maybe when I"m in my late twenties, lol, it will be...

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, Ms. Milsaps gives us a light-hearted, a loose friends to lovers, definitely forbidden and age-gap romance that is a joy to read. Having read all the books prior to Fourth Wheel I had insight as to why this relationship was forbidden but that is what made the book much more interesting. Maddie and Dempsey's story is one that is about protection, healing and becoming your own person.

Maddie, Fourth Wheel, is Rhett, from the Hampton Hearts series, little sister and boy is she a feisty and sassy one to boot. No one and nothing is going to stop her from getting what she wants and she wants Dempsey this summer before she goes back to university in California. Her wants start the night she walks into Jake's bar and realizes that it is not Fielding behind the bar but his twin, Dempsey. This was the start of a determined woman trying everything to get his attention and him in her bed, however, she has no idea as to why he is forbidden and really doesn't care. Dempsey is a caring, swoon-worthy man that you instantly fall in love with He fights his attraction to Maddie but there is something that is just stronger than her being forbidden to stop him. He wants to be with her but he has so much baggage that he does not want to subject her to it all. Well, that doesn't last long and when they do get together the fires that burn are hot. Their chemistry was off the charts right from the beginning. Talk about a spice level of five plus. These two were meant for each in every aspect. The ending of this book was absolutely perfect and had me doing a happy dance.

The one thing that I truly loved is that people got to see the side of Fielding that I always knew was under the surfaced. He really redeems himself in Fourth Wheel and he still holds a spot in my heart as well as his twin. A definite summer must-read book to add to your TBR list.

[Noelani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fourth Wheel
Abby Millsaps
⭑ ⭑ ⭑ ⭑ ⭑ /5
.
.
Maddie Wheeler is one bad bitch. A real Spitfire 🔥 in four inch heels 👠 who knows what she wants and gets what she wants. Especially when she comes across Dempsey Haas.

Maddie is tired of the college party frat boys and is ready for a man who knows what he’s doing, And Haas definitely knows what he’s doing. 🫠 But Haas knows who Maddie Wheeler is, and she is off limits! But that doesn’t stop Maddie and she’s up for the challenge.
🏆 Challenge to sleep with Dempsey Haas- activate!

This book was hilarious and hot 🥵. The back and forth between Maddie and Demp made me insaneee, but I don’t read Abby’s book for sanity. In fact, I’m here for the insanity rollercoaster that all her books have taken me on. So I expected nothing less 🤣
⚠️ you’ll fall in love with Dempsey too… and MAYBE even his twin brother 😉

[Kelsey Salmon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this quick summer read! Dempsey is so selfless and constantly puts his life on pause for everyone else in his life. His brother has a drinking and drug problem. Both brothers moved to Hampton to take care of their mother. Maddie is spending the summer in Hampton before college in the fall. One night Maddie meets the bartender at Oak. At first thinking she’s speaking with Fieldings, she quickly realizes this is his twin brother. Feildings & Maddie have a rough past that involves her brother, Rhett. Throughout the story you uncover the history behind Dempsey & Fieldings past with Maddie’s family. Of courseee they can’t stay away from each other. So they decide to secretly hook up all summer, and leave with no strings attached. Perfect summer romance book that actually has a plot!

[Mandy Grepares · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had it all! Maddie and Dempsey meet at the bar he works at, and she knows exactly who he is. There's a whole lot of family drama, so Maddie knows if he realizes who her family is, he won't give her the night of her life. One explosive make out session later, and Dempsey halts everything when he finds out who Maddie is. I adored that Maddie didn't let Dempsey hide from their chemistry. Dempsey connected with her, and he was terrified of what that meant for his family. They had a lot of tough circumstances to handle, but they had each other to get through everything!

*I received an ARC from the author for my honest review*

[Taylor Wilson-West · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quick cute read! I enjoyed the story of Maddie and Dem. It was like a hallmark movie, made you feel good, but definitely more spicy. Maddie's character is mature for her age, so sometimes I forgot it was an age gap. Dem is total book boyfriend material, sweet, caring, touch-her-you-die type.

This was my first book by Abby Millsaps, and it wont be my last.

Thank you SmutHood Tours and Abby Millsaps for an advanced copy. This review is being left voluntarily, all opinions are my own.

[heaven · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely one of my lighter reads this year— I enjoyed this book and the giddiness that came from Dempsey. He is perfection. It took me by surprise knowing his home life and how well he was able to keep himself together. The resilience he carries.

I, in some way, wish we got more of Maddie & her home life but I guess this just means I’ll have to make up a life for her or find her hidden in another book.

Otherwise I would recommend reading this book, you can just breeze by & get consumed by Dempseys Pov. The way he describes his love for Maddie or how infatuated he is by her.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is by FAR my favorite book by Abby! After the first few pages I knew that I was going to be addicted! I read this book in under 12 hours. This is a perfect love story for Maddie and Dempsey. Maddie is a spitfire and always looking for trouble and Dempsey is always putting everyone before himself. They are the perfect balance. I didn’t want this story to end and I would not be mad with a surprise second book!

[Allyson Hancock · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review:

Did I cry during this book? Yes
Do I want other people to cry when they read this book? Also yes
Will I recommend this book just to get people to cry? Absolutely.

From the first few pages I loved it. I love Dempsey and he is absolutely added to my book boyfriends list.

But more than that I loved the sass and stubborn attitude that came with Maddie. She is everything I wish I was really.

I would read with again just to feel the same way I did while crying. Beyond worth it.

[Kimbers_library · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fourth Wheel
Abby Millsaps

3.5 Stars
Grumpy Sunshine
Forbidden Love

Maddie Wheeler has her eyes set on Dempsey Haas....and she won't stop staring until she gets what she wants. I've seen her described with this word and its the perfect definition of her, but she is definitely a little spitfire with a ton of sass! However, her plan at scoring Dempsey takes a small halt when Dempsey finds out exactly who Maddie is...and she is OFF LIMITS.
Overall, it was a great quick read. It was VERY fast paced. I think I would have enjoyed it a little more if I had more of Maddie's story mixed in with all the plot heaviness of Dempseys that kept me wanting more! Lots of fun banter and their love was so sweet! I would personally prefer a little more angst but overall, it was a fun read! This was my first read from this author and I would definitely recommend to anyone who is in the mood for a sweet, light, and fast paced love story!

[Jessica Scott jess.reading.books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Fourth Wheel! It was a light read with the perfect combination of romance, humor, and spice. Maddie is back in her small hometown just for the summer and has her sights set on Dempsey - forbidden, older, and very attractive. Sparks fly immediately but will they act on it or keep their distance?!

Maddie was a great FMC with sass, confidence, and a kind heart. Dempsey had some dad vibes because of his care-giver personality but was very sweet, loyal, and had some very interesting things to say! 👀 I loved their interactions (“caveman” interactions included!), conversations, and how much they both care for Fielding (Dempsey’s twin). Fielding was a great secondary character and made me laugh, especially when he pulled his twin antics.

This was a very fast paced read - I couldn’t put it down! If you’re looking for a mini age gap, forbidden romance with great characters, fun banter, and spice, check out Fourth Wheel! This was my first read by Abby Millsaps and I’m excited to read more of her books. I received this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinion.

TW: mention of addiction, death

[Joanna Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve never received an ARC before and I’m definitely thankful this was my first! I’m very excited to tell you that I found it to be nothing short of swoon worthy 🥰

Maddie and Dempsey’s story hooks you from the beginning and I found that every chapter made me want more! It was on the faster side for me but I definitely enjoyed the shorter chapters!

This was the first of Abby’s books I’ve read and definitely won’t be the last!!

[McKenna Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Spice Rating: 3/5
Main Trope(s): age gap, forbidden romance
Favorite Quote: "In another life- where you could stay, or I could go- in another life, I think I could love you forever."

This was the first book I read of Abby Millsaps, and what a way to be introduced!

I quickly and unexpectedly fell in love with Maddie and Dempsey! It was a very light read with very little angst (as compared to my usual darker reads), but I still feel like Abby was able to pull at our heartstrings without completely shattering it.

Some of the side characters obviously had backstories that I was not privy too, but the stories were teased at enough that I am interested to read their stories as well. I am very interested in Fielding/Tori/Rhett backstory, and am crossing my fingers that we'll get an update on Fielding and the "we" we are teased with at the end!

*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review*

[Book Obsessed Girl · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️
4 🔥

"𝑻𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒊𝒔𝒏’𝒕 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒊𝒃𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚— 𝒊𝒕 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒈𝒐𝒅𝒅𝒂𝒎𝒏 𝒑𝒖𝒓𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒆. 𝑵𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒏 ���𝒚 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒚𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒏𝒐𝒘."

Maddie & Dem's story had me laughing out loud, getting misty-eyed, fanning myself and wanting to punch Fielding (imagine that!)

Maddie is sassy, independent and gorgeous inside and out. Dempsey is a caring, nurturing, protective, sexy man. Their relationship was electric and beautiful. I have been excitedly waiting to see how their story was going to unfold and I was not dissapointed! When these two get together, nothing will stop them.

I have loved going on this journey with the different characters of Hampton, Ohio and Abby has just written those smexy scenes spicier with each book! Phew! 😮‍💨🥵

[Angela Horr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This mini age-gap with forbidden romance vibes from Abby Millsaps is *chef’s kiss*. While we’re back in the Hampton Hearts universe, Maddie and Dempsey’s story is independent. (You’ll have a more comprehensive understanding if you read the Hampton Hearts series first - but you’ll still enjoy this as a stand-alone if you don’t)

Maddie Wheeler is fiercely independent and confident beyond belief. When she wants something - or someone - she goes after it with determination. So when she sees a hot AF bartender at The Oak and realizes it’s not the twin that’s off limits, he instantly makes her summer to-do list.

Enter Dempsey Haas - the overprotective caretaker with a heart of gold. He is a giver in every sense of the word. Dempsey takes care of his mother and his broken-hearted brother while guarding his own heart. The way he sees his brother genuinely changed how I feel about f***ing Fielding (insert astounded gasp here).

What starts as instant attraction turns into forbidden romance when Dempsey realizes who Maddie is… but the feelings are too strong and after a party gone awry, we get to see Dempsey relinquish a little bit of his armor.

And phew… Maddie and Dempsey are electric. Dempsey shows Maddie just how much she’s been missing out on and Maddie shows Dempsey someone can care about him the way he deserves.

I love that despite how strong their feelings become, they both respect where the other one is in their life and don’t try to change it. They each understand that because of their respective life circumstances right now, this is a just-for-summer fling. That doesn’t stop them from fully diving into each other and I loved to see it. (And there is a HEA, as impossible as it may seem sometimes)

One of the ways Maddie shows her feelings for Dempsey is by how she treats Fielding. Dempsey and Fielding’s relationship is close and caring, but also a little co-dependent. However, Maddie knows that Dempsey is his brother’s keeper and any time she can help Fielding - she does.

This book was light and fun and filled with sass and steam, but still gave us the depth we’ve come to know from author Abby Millsaps. And she did it again - put pen to paper and gave us honest emotions and difficult situations that are relatable and tug at your heartstrings in a visceral way. We got a new view on characters we’ve met before, along with new ones (to hate) - looking at you, Andrew Adley. I love Abby’s writing because of the authenticity of the emotions - her writing transcends the page in a way I have seen few others do. Cannot recommend this book, and Abby Millsaps, enough!

[Jessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy. CRAP. Fourth Wheel was a journey that Abby Millsaps took me on, and I was not prepared for where it would take me and how I would feel. The book was beautifully written, and I can't wait to have a physical copy in my hands to annotate. Thank you, Abby Millsaps and TheSMUTHOOD, for the ARC to read and review honestly.

"I wouldn't forgive myself if I missed a single thing when it comes to you."

Maddie is a whirlwind character full of life and getting what she wants. She's full of sass, spice, and a fiery personality that seems over the top to some but is honestly full on life. Maddie is loyal and driven, but she's also young, and unfortunately for her, that plays into how people see her, along with who her older brother is. Dempsey is a grump, secretly hiding a cinnamon roll center when it comes to Maddie. He is softspoken, loyal to a fault, passionate, and broody. He absolutely screams the "touch her and you die" vibe, and he backs it up. He quickly moved to the top of my favorite book boyfriends, as I kept reading. Maddie and Dempsey's connection was so sweet and touching, but also spicy and HAWT that I loved reading their story.

"I knew it in the bar, but now I feel it in my bones. This girl is something special, and I'm going to make the most out of tonight."

She's not afraid to go after what she wants, that being Dempsey Haas, twin brother of the Fielding, who had a dramatic falling out with her older brother and his wife. Dempsey is afraid to go after Maddie due to him wanting to support his brother in every way he can. Despite that, Dempsey can't resist her. I may have cheered out loud when Dempsey decided he was done trying to fight against Maddie's pull. Their story and relationship felt so natural, and I fell for Dempsey early on because he felt so real. The author supported their characters and the plot, and the book was a slam dunk.

"She was a little bit wild. She was beautifully free."

The characters and setting in this book are significant parts of Abby Millsaps Hampton Hearts series, and reading this first may ruin some plot points in that series if you haven't read it first. However, the book is still fantastic and easily read as a standalone. I loved every minute of it.

"From the way he draws pleasure from my body to the way he embraces who I am, I have never felt so seen. He doesn't want to change me. He doesn't want to use me. He lifts me up. He lets me be. There is beauty in being seen; in knowing that this man knows the shape of my soul, and that even if given a chance, he wouldn't change a damn thing."

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, let me start by saying that I started reading this book purely on accident, but I am happy to report that it was not a mistake. This book was like a breath of fresh air, Millsaps created a beautiful story and I truly cannot wait to read more of her work!

Fourth Wheel is a dual POV novel that follows the budding spicy romance between the bubbly and extroverted Maddie, and doting yet dominating Dempsey. Upon their first meeting, unbeknownst to Dempsey, their lives are already entangled.

Maddie is the kind of strong female lead who is fiercely independent and is not afraid to make it known to anyone right from the start. Her character is lovable and witty with the perfect amount of sass. Yet while being independent, Maddie also finds strength in relying on Dempsey when she needs it. This book so perfectly captures the strength in relying on oneself, but does not neglect to show the importance of leaning on others and finding strength in doing so.

This strength is not only found in Maddie though. Leading man Dempsey has his fare share of struggles, with feeling responsible for both his mother and twin brother he tends to push his own needs aside for the sake of others while also finding the lines blurred when Maddie is involved. The bond between Dempsey and his twin brother is so beautifully written it almost hurts. If anything is lacking in literature today it would be strong wholesome relationships between male characters, but Millsaps captures it perfectly.

Together Maddie and Dempsey are a beautifully written, non-dramatic, paring. This book opts out of the more toxic romance tropes, so if cute yet deep love is something you are looking to read this novel is for you! While romance is at the heart of this book the mmc and fmc are both left to develop individually while also growing together. There are intimate scenes peppered throughout this book (we love a good age-gap secret romance moment) but the connections foraged by the lead characters create a book that is more than just a smutty romance. They navigate their summer together while discovering what is really important to them over time. This book also talks through deeper issues such as: sexual harassment, death and grief, and substance abuse. Though they are generally not the main conflicts Millsaps handles these topics with a kind of grace that does not make them (generally) overwhelming for readers and instead makes them lend to the story rather than overtake or take away from it.

[Toniann (BookishForever) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about this book!

Maddie's personality is so infectious. It's been a long time since I've read such a strong, likeable FMC. She knew what she wanted and she didn't waiver from it. She was strong and playful but still so vulnerable and caring. I loved how she just knew how to take care of Dempsey when he needed it. I loved even more how she went out of her way to include and take care of Fielding because she knew how important he was to Dempsey; most of the time without Dempsey even knowing she was doing it.

Dempsey is the ultimate caretaker. He puts everyone else's needs and mental state above his own; never taking anything for himself. Can I just say, I had no idea I would have a spit kink - until Dempsey. My God, Abby - 🔥!

You felt the connection between Maddie and Dempsey immediately! Even though they both agreed to a summer fling, I love that they both threw themselves into each other 100% despite the ending they knew was coming. There was never any tip toeing around or miscommunications.

Let's talk about Fielding and Dempsey (Twin Power) for a moment. I adored their relationship. There were so many touching moments between the two of them. You felt their connection to each other so strongly in these moments. The way they would nuzzle their heads together or how Dempsey would kiss Fielding on the forehead - I just couldn't get enough of the two of them. I have always had a soft spot for Fielding - but this book made me fall in love with him.

Fourth Wheel takes place in the Hampton Hearts world and although I think it can be read as a stand alone - it will definitely be more enjoyable if you read the Hampton Hearts series first. Some events and general mentions in this book will make a lot more sense if you do.

Recommended Reading Order for the Hampton Hearts World:
• When You're Gone (Rhett & Tori)
• While You're There (Rhett & Tori)
• When You're Home for the Holidays (Novella)
• While You're Gone (Rhett & Tori)
• Rowdy Boy (Jake - Novella)
• Mr. Brightside (Jake & Cory)
• Fourth Wheel

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Maddie and Dempsey's story and omg it is definitely a must read. Wow Wow Wow this book takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions and I cried and cried some more so make sure that you have the tissues ready because you are definitely going to need them but I still couldn't put it down. Dempsey on my heart what an amazing man, he is a protector of his family and those that he loves, caring, has so much baggage but the connection between him and his brother Fielding was a beautiful thing to see and how he cared for his mother well be still my heart because it was a truly special thing and then you had Maddie who is sassy, caring, fierce, competitive and steps in to help those that need it regardless of her own safety because to me she is a true warrior and has such a beautiful heart and grew so much in this story but put Dempsey and Maddie together and you have a connection like no other and explosive chemistry that you can feel sizzling off the pages and even though Dempsey rights it Maddie fights back just as hard and let's face it as it was written in the stars that Dempsey and Maddie have been waiting for each other and they are meant to be together as some things are just to powerful to deny. This Book takes you in right from the first page and kept your attention throughout as it was a real page turner and so addictive. Abby Millisaps is an amazing author and writer and she certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention and on the edge of their seats and she has become one of my all time favourite author's as her story's have so much depth to them and that is what makes you go back time and time again to read her book's and I hope Fielding has his story next. I have been with Abby right from the beginning and I can't wait to continue on this journey with and I definitely recommend you read this book and other's by her and you will not be disappointed.

I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

And we get Maddie’s story finally. She may be known as Fourth Wheel by Rhett’s best friend Jake and by Fielding, but she never did get to meet Fielding’s twin brother before things got a little awkward when Fielding went all out on his love for someone that was already taken. A chance meeting has Dempsey and Maddie meeting at The Oak and Dempsey has no idea who she is, score one in Maddie’s favor. Maddie thought it was his twin brother Fielding at first and then once she knew it was Dempsey and he didn’t know who she was she was ready to make the night even better. Well, that is until he realizes who she is and then walks the other direction. These two end up deciding on a summer thing and as the summer is wrapping up life has dealt them hit after hit. Is there enough left of them to give to the other or was it just summer?

I LOVE these two together. Maddie has fire and spice and so much sass. It was amazing to watch that all unfold, and poor Dempsey didn’t stand a chance. He has put his family above himself for the four years and this beautiful thing has basically fallen into his lap he isn’t sure what to do with it. Especially since she has a connection to what could throw Fielding into a tailspin. The way these two are together is true magic. There is so much love, but also respect. Dempsey wants to spend time with her, but he also doesn’t want her to be a dirty little secret. As they set out to have this summer fun, both catch feelings but neither wants to hold the other back. Abby always gives us the most amazing characters that you fall in love with and want to see happiness. I mean I will forever be behind Fielding, even after all that he put Rhett and Tori through. The thing is Maddie is not her brother and Dempsey is not his. Another phenomenal book by Abby!

[Natasha diary_of_a_sarcastic_bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay so this is a brand new author for me, which I am finding myself saying more and more. Which is amazing and also like ‘girl have you been living under a rock’🥴
It definitely won’t be my last, it’s safe to say I’ve fallen in love!

- age gap
- Grumpy/sunshine
- Brothers rival in a way

Our two leads are Maddie Wheeler and Dempsey Haas, they have instant chemistry that lights the bar on fire. They can’t be together but the tension between them refuses to be ignored!

🫦Oh Maddie Wheeler, what can I even say about this young woman! She is a spirt-fire, sassy as hell, beautiful and just a down right bad@ss! If I had a spirt person it would be her! She knows what she wants and she goes for it. Working harder than ever to become a lawyer, she’s back for the summer only and nothing will make her stay…. Well almost nothing, so fate throws in Dempsey. He keeps pushing her away but she keeps pushing right back!
Can she break down his walls to squeeze through?
Will she leave or go?

😏Dempsey, oh holy hell is he smoking and oh how I love him! He gives as good as he gets, he’s stubborn, strong, handsome and oh yeah where do I get one? How this man is so strong with everything he is dealing with is beyond me, he looks out for his mum and brother never thinking about himself. He put his life on hold, pushes away a woman who he definitely wants and all while working.
Will he dare let her in or will he feel like he’s betraying the ones he loves?
Can he keep his head above water long enough to find happiness?

This book has everything!!! It’s emotional, it’s got banter for days, and the STEAM 😮‍💨🤌🏻 perfection! Family drama, secrets, fights and oh so much love!

Highly recommend!🫶🏻

[Margareada_7 · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You’re my hope. You’re my courage. You’re my sunshine, ever-present and driving me forward, even on the darkest of days.”- Dempsey

I see you Dempsey Haas. Let me just say if Abby had written her books in a different order, Rhett Wheeler might not be my ultimate book boyfriend. Dem has so many of my Golden Boy's qualities, like his desire and need to care for others, but he also has an edge to him that makes me want to hear him tell me good girl.

If you've read Hampton Hearts, you know Maddie is Rhett's younger sister and Dempsey is Fielding's brother. When she sets her sights on the twin of her long-time crush, she forces him to look at what he wants for himself more than he ever has before.

What starts as summer fun turns into so much more, and you feel every emotion along the way. The flirtation, the lust,... the wanting, the need,... the passion, the chemistry ...the angst,the love,... there's a reason one of Abby's usual hashtags is all the feels. And the spice factor?? Completely off the charts!

I do believe this is my favorite book so far. From Maddie's sass
“Permission to exit the building, Mr. Haas?”

to the overwhelming connection Dempsey and Field have (and that's saying alot considering my feelings towards Fielding!),

"Fielding shifts, forcing my head to the side as he fidgets to get closer. I’m not sure if he’s aware he’s doing it, or if it’s instinct, but there’s comfort in the way he unconsciously tries to get as close as possible after we’ve been apart all day. I crave the connection just as deeply as he does."

every aspect of this book spoke to my heart.

[Margo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book. I was so excited to read it based on what I knew it was going to be about. An age gap, forbidden romance.

I absolutely adored Dempsey from the very beginning. He was loyal and funny and 🥵 He had lived in NYC but due to personal issues with his twin brother and health issues with his mom, he moved back home. His entire focus is on his family. But then Maddie walks in to the bar he works at. They hit it off right away. She knows who he is (his twin has issues with her brother) but he doesn’t recognize her.
At first he doesn’t want to have anything to do with her out of respect for his brother but the chemistry can’t be denied. Eventually they agree on a summer fling. Friends with benefits. She’s going back to school in California at the end of the summer and he’s stuck in their hometown.

I cried when the summer ended. It was so heartfelt and they both deserved to be happy with each other but she didn’t want to give up her dreams and couldn’t ask him to leave his family. She understood why he had to stay. And he couldn’t leave but he also couldn’t ask her to stay because he knew how important her dreams were to her.

HEA.

Maddie took a minute for me to like. She grew on me. At first her character seemed very spoiled but i think Dempsey brought out another side to her. She was very caring and thoughtful.

And the “age gap” is actually only 7 years which doesn’t seem like too much to qualify as an age gap lol

Overall, this story is written so beautifully and makes you root for Dempsey and Maddie to get their HEA. I’m so glad it works out. And the spice, 😮‍💨 5 out of 5 🌶