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Built to Last
Erin Hahn's Built to Last is a sparkling second chance romance about owning what you’re worth and fighting for the one who got away.
Shelby Springfield has spent the last ten years trying to overcome her past, sanding it away like she does the rough spots on the vintage furniture finds she makes over. But as a former child star, it’s hard to forget a mediocre pop career, a meltdown widely documented by the paparazzi, and a huge public break with her former co-star Lyle Jessup. It’s also hard to forget her other co-star and childhood sweetheart, Cameron Riggs -- the one who got away.
Anytime Shelby has called, Cameron has come running… And then he runs right off again to chase stories around the world by making documentaries, too scared to admit what he really wants. But when Lyle stirs the pot, getting the two back in the spotlight with a home renovation show, Cameron can't help but come on board.
There's something in it for everyone -- almost. Cameron wants to come home and set down some roots. Shelby wants to prove to the world she's not the messy party girl anymore. And Lyle wants to twist the screws on his two childhood friends who had more chemistry than he could dream of with anyone. Sparks and sawdust fly as Shelby and Cameron film the pilot for "Homemade" and battle Lyle’s shenanigans at every turn.
Shelby Springfield has spent the last ten years trying to overcome her past, sanding it away like she does the rough spots on the vintage furniture finds she makes over. But as a former child star, it’s hard to forget a mediocre pop career, a meltdown widely documented by the paparazzi, and a huge public break with her former co-star Lyle Jessup. It’s also hard to forget her other co-star and childhood sweetheart, Cameron Riggs -- the one who got away.
Anytime Shelby has called, Cameron has come running… And then he runs right off again to chase stories around the world by making documentaries, too scared to admit what he really wants. But when Lyle stirs the pot, getting the two back in the spotlight with a home renovation show, Cameron can't help but come on board.
There's something in it for everyone -- almost. Cameron wants to come home and set down some roots. Shelby wants to prove to the world she's not the messy party girl anymore. And Lyle wants to twist the screws on his two childhood friends who had more chemistry than he could dream of with anyone. Sparks and sawdust fly as Shelby and Cameron film the pilot for "Homemade" and battle Lyle’s shenanigans at every turn.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2022
161 people are currently reading
24527 people want to read
About the author
Erin Hahn
8 books1,399 followersERIN HAHN is the author of the young adult novels You'd Be Mine, More Than Maybe, and Never Saw You Coming as well as the adult romance Built to Last. Romance is her vibe, grunge is her soundtrack and fall is her signature color. She fell for her flannel-clad college sweetheart the very first day of school and together, they have two hilarious kids who keep her humble. She lives outside Ann Arbor, Michigan, and has a cat named Gus who plays fetch and a dog named June who doesn't.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,740 reviews
June 15, 2022
second chance childhood sweetheart stories are my greatest weakness, so i was beyond eager to pick this up.
the chemistry between shelby and cam is really well done. every interaction they have is believable and feels genuine. i really enjoyed their banter and appreciated how their relationship developed. i was more than rooting for them and their home renovation show to work out.
so while this more than delivers with the second chance trope, im so bummed out that the childhood sweethearts aspect took a back seat. i would have loved to have more flashback scenes. other than quick references, i think theres maybe like one and a half actual flashback scenes total throughout the entire book. and, because of this, it creates a lot of miss opportunities for character development, growth, and connection.
but even though this may not have lived up to all of my expectations or wants, this is still a decently sweet story with a lot of heart. perfect for readers who are obsessed with home renovations shows!
a big thanks to st. martins press for the ARC!
↠ 3.5 stars
the chemistry between shelby and cam is really well done. every interaction they have is believable and feels genuine. i really enjoyed their banter and appreciated how their relationship developed. i was more than rooting for them and their home renovation show to work out.
so while this more than delivers with the second chance trope, im so bummed out that the childhood sweethearts aspect took a back seat. i would have loved to have more flashback scenes. other than quick references, i think theres maybe like one and a half actual flashback scenes total throughout the entire book. and, because of this, it creates a lot of miss opportunities for character development, growth, and connection.
but even though this may not have lived up to all of my expectations or wants, this is still a decently sweet story with a lot of heart. perfect for readers who are obsessed with home renovations shows!
a big thanks to st. martins press for the ARC!
↠ 3.5 stars
June 13, 2022
Oh sweet lord! I couldn’t put this book down! When I first read the blurb, I was afraid of reading a love triangle ( unfortunately that trope never works for me) but as soon as I start delving more about Shelby and Cameron’s back story, I truly wanted them reunited and I relieved to find out this is friends to lovers/ second chances love story! Shelby and Cameron literally burn for each other since they were kids and they let other people intervene on their behalf’s! I literally screamed at them to come clean about their feelings. It was so obvious they were soul mates who meant to be together!
Their chemistry is combustible! Their banters are sweet and sexy! Both of them are adorable characters!
Here’s the recap of plot:
Shelby Springfield ( 27), a famous childstar with ruined reputation, leaving her past behind after her co-star ex Lyle a-hole Jessup cheating on her with her close friend and humiliating her by making a Grammy awarded song with the lyrics mentioning her as a cheater!
Shelby is in love with her other co-star Cameron Riggs from the beginning. But when Cameron leaves the show the college, cutting contacts with her, she starts dating with Lyle. Even though this is under the belt punch, that results in loveless relationship, regrets, ruined career. When she breaks up with Lyle, the only one she calls was Cameron who is in Alaska, working for National Geo. And he takes the plane to come back to her! But he doesn’t want to be rebound so he leaves her when she is sleeping, writing her a note advising to leave La La Land forever!
This is the summary of their unfinished love story!
Five years later: Shelby who moved to Michigan, working with her father reconstruction of old houses and vintage furnitures’ business, wanting to prove the world she is not the same child star actress and a mediocre pop star parting nonstop, making impulsive decisions with documented public meltdown!
She has a peaceful life with the house she’s renovating, with the chickens she takes care of and her besties including Lorelai Jones: a former Country singer who still tries to heal her wounds after her bad breakup!
She wants to prove the world she’s changed and she also wants to support her father’s medical bills by working on a home renovation reality show concept but the channel producers want to replace her father with someone else and they want to have a meeting with her!
When she goes to the meeting, she finds out two things; Lyle the ex cheater is the producer of the show. And he wants him to team up with Cameron who was her first and last live and who left her without say good eye five years ago!
Shelby wants her comeback and Cameron wants to compensate his mistakes.
That’s just a reality show and both of them are professionals, right? Even though the douche bag Lyle thinks Shelby cheated on him with Kyle and he is adamant to avenge them by bringing out the people from their pasts during the rolling of the show! And let’s not forget the unresolved issues of these two people who literally burn for each other!
Well, the love story of Shelby and Cameron was amazing! Their evolving, growing up, facing their problems, learning for their mistakes parts were well written!
I think that’s the best thing the author has written since You’d be mine deserving my five Michigander, antique flee market, country singing, sweetest couple stars!
By the way: I think we’re gonna get sequel for Lorelai Jones and Drake Colter story which truly intrigued me! I am looking forward to read it!
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press / St. Martin’s Griffin for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
Their chemistry is combustible! Their banters are sweet and sexy! Both of them are adorable characters!
Here’s the recap of plot:
Shelby Springfield ( 27), a famous childstar with ruined reputation, leaving her past behind after her co-star ex Lyle a-hole Jessup cheating on her with her close friend and humiliating her by making a Grammy awarded song with the lyrics mentioning her as a cheater!
Shelby is in love with her other co-star Cameron Riggs from the beginning. But when Cameron leaves the show the college, cutting contacts with her, she starts dating with Lyle. Even though this is under the belt punch, that results in loveless relationship, regrets, ruined career. When she breaks up with Lyle, the only one she calls was Cameron who is in Alaska, working for National Geo. And he takes the plane to come back to her! But he doesn’t want to be rebound so he leaves her when she is sleeping, writing her a note advising to leave La La Land forever!
This is the summary of their unfinished love story!
Five years later: Shelby who moved to Michigan, working with her father reconstruction of old houses and vintage furnitures’ business, wanting to prove the world she is not the same child star actress and a mediocre pop star parting nonstop, making impulsive decisions with documented public meltdown!
She has a peaceful life with the house she’s renovating, with the chickens she takes care of and her besties including Lorelai Jones: a former Country singer who still tries to heal her wounds after her bad breakup!
She wants to prove the world she’s changed and she also wants to support her father’s medical bills by working on a home renovation reality show concept but the channel producers want to replace her father with someone else and they want to have a meeting with her!
When she goes to the meeting, she finds out two things; Lyle the ex cheater is the producer of the show. And he wants him to team up with Cameron who was her first and last live and who left her without say good eye five years ago!
Shelby wants her comeback and Cameron wants to compensate his mistakes.
That’s just a reality show and both of them are professionals, right? Even though the douche bag Lyle thinks Shelby cheated on him with Kyle and he is adamant to avenge them by bringing out the people from their pasts during the rolling of the show! And let’s not forget the unresolved issues of these two people who literally burn for each other!
Well, the love story of Shelby and Cameron was amazing! Their evolving, growing up, facing their problems, learning for their mistakes parts were well written!
I think that’s the best thing the author has written since You’d be mine deserving my five Michigander, antique flee market, country singing, sweetest couple stars!
By the way: I think we’re gonna get sequel for Lorelai Jones and Drake Colter story which truly intrigued me! I am looking forward to read it!
Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press / St. Martin’s Griffin for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
February 7, 2023
Built to Last has such a delightful premise- childhood sweethearts second chance romance and home renovation show. I thought I'd love it but turns out to be average for me.
Shelby and Cam were on a children's TV show, when they grew older the show wrapped, and they went separate ways. Now they have united again in Le Croix, a quaint Lake Michigan beach town for a home renovation reality show. Their chemistry is undeniable, the characters are adorable, and the sex is open-door steamy.
This has a strong start with charming characters. I really want to love it as I love the fixer-upper premise. I just didn't feel much tension or conflict. I don't understand the big deal behind Shelby's reputation. There wasn't much going on and I felt bored most of the time. Maybe this would be better as a novella?
Shelby and Cam were on a children's TV show, when they grew older the show wrapped, and they went separate ways. Now they have united again in Le Croix, a quaint Lake Michigan beach town for a home renovation reality show. Their chemistry is undeniable, the characters are adorable, and the sex is open-door steamy.
This has a strong start with charming characters. I really want to love it as I love the fixer-upper premise. I just didn't feel much tension or conflict. I don't understand the big deal behind Shelby's reputation. There wasn't much going on and I felt bored most of the time. Maybe this would be better as a novella?
August 17, 2022
3.5 stars
“The World According to Jackson” launched the careers of eleven year olds Lyle Jessup, who played the lead, Cameron Riggs who played his nerdy best friend Carter, and Shelby Springfield who starred as Jackson’s love interest-Makayla.
For seven years, the kids sang and danced, and mouthed off to their parents, and although Cameron was Shelby’s secret first love-Lyle is who she made headlines with!
Scandalous ones!
And, then it all crashed and burned in typical Hollywood style.
Shelby has been living a quiet life since then, helping her Dad to flip and renovate homes and the two were hoping that an opportunity to showcase their talents would pan out on a TV show they are calling “HomeMade”.
But, the network doesn’t feel the Dad/Daughter duo has the chemistry needed to headline a successful show.
However, new showrunner, Lyle Jessup thinks he has a solution-Pair up his former co-stars as the leads instead.
But, he isn’t as altruistic as he seems..
This second chance romance is the Adult Romance debut from YA romance author Erin Hahn.
It took awhile for me to become invested in their story as not a whole lot happened until “a whole lot happened”! 😉
The friendship between Cam and Shelby was sweet, BUT the dialogue wasn’t sassy enough for my taste-My favorite rom coms are propelled forward by playful, witty banter which was lacking in this one for me.
The second half definitely picked up steam in more ways than one-and I enjoyed getting to know the couple’s friends who are supposed to get their own “starring roles” in books to come.
If you enjoy home renovation shows on HGTV, and romance novels, “Built to Last” could be a fun book for you to add to your TBR! Due to hit shelves on October 18, 2022.
A buddy read with DeAnn! Be sure to check out her amazing review for additional insights!
Thank You to St. Martin’s Griffin and NetGalley for the gifted copy. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
“The World According to Jackson” launched the careers of eleven year olds Lyle Jessup, who played the lead, Cameron Riggs who played his nerdy best friend Carter, and Shelby Springfield who starred as Jackson’s love interest-Makayla.
For seven years, the kids sang and danced, and mouthed off to their parents, and although Cameron was Shelby’s secret first love-Lyle is who she made headlines with!
Scandalous ones!
And, then it all crashed and burned in typical Hollywood style.
Shelby has been living a quiet life since then, helping her Dad to flip and renovate homes and the two were hoping that an opportunity to showcase their talents would pan out on a TV show they are calling “HomeMade”.
But, the network doesn’t feel the Dad/Daughter duo has the chemistry needed to headline a successful show.
However, new showrunner, Lyle Jessup thinks he has a solution-Pair up his former co-stars as the leads instead.
But, he isn’t as altruistic as he seems..
This second chance romance is the Adult Romance debut from YA romance author Erin Hahn.
It took awhile for me to become invested in their story as not a whole lot happened until “a whole lot happened”! 😉
The friendship between Cam and Shelby was sweet, BUT the dialogue wasn’t sassy enough for my taste-My favorite rom coms are propelled forward by playful, witty banter which was lacking in this one for me.
The second half definitely picked up steam in more ways than one-and I enjoyed getting to know the couple’s friends who are supposed to get their own “starring roles” in books to come.
If you enjoy home renovation shows on HGTV, and romance novels, “Built to Last” could be a fun book for you to add to your TBR! Due to hit shelves on October 18, 2022.
A buddy read with DeAnn! Be sure to check out her amazing review for additional insights!
Thank You to St. Martin’s Griffin and NetGalley for the gifted copy. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
November 29, 2022
This was really cute! I couldn’t get completely engrossed in as I would usually like to, but I “awwwwed” a couple of times. So good enough!
The life of childhood stars according to what I know is not quite easy, from personal negative impacts to strains on relationships with family. Kudos to Hahn for exploring these and incorporating romance.
Would recommend it if you're looking for a cute read.
The life of childhood stars according to what I know is not quite easy, from personal negative impacts to strains on relationships with family. Kudos to Hahn for exploring these and incorporating romance.
Would recommend it if you're looking for a cute read.
May 23, 2023
3.75⭐
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Publication date ~ October 18, 2022
Page Count ~ 336
Audio length ~ 8 hours 35 minutes
Narrators ~ Lisa Zimmerman, Kale Williams
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ adult fiction debut, celebrities, reality stars, childhood sweethearts, second chance, some steamage
Shelby & Cameron
I do enjoy watching home renovation shows so I was drawn into that part of the story. Fixer to Fabulous is my fav in case you were wondering.
Second chance stories usually make me mad because so much time was wasted and is it really realistic that you haven't stopped thinking about someone for years and years and years? And if you really haven't then why not reach out and say "hello, wanna give us a go again?"
I liked both main characters and Shelby's dad. We have a few unlikable side characters, especially Shelby's mom, oye what a mess. Lyle is a close second. Overall, it didn't have a lot of banter, which I could have went for, but I had a great time reading it.
I was able to listen to an audio copy as well. Both narrators did a fine job. I'm not sure the flashbacks were seamless though. There was one part where they just whomped it up and next thing she's crying because he kissed her and said it was a mistake. Luckily, it's in italics in the ebook, so we could figure it out when reading
*Thanks to the author, St Martin's Press and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Publication date ~ October 18, 2022
Page Count ~ 336
Audio length ~ 8 hours 35 minutes
Narrators ~ Lisa Zimmerman, Kale Williams
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ adult fiction debut, celebrities, reality stars, childhood sweethearts, second chance, some steamage
Shelby & Cameron
I do enjoy watching home renovation shows so I was drawn into that part of the story. Fixer to Fabulous is my fav in case you were wondering.
Second chance stories usually make me mad because so much time was wasted and is it really realistic that you haven't stopped thinking about someone for years and years and years? And if you really haven't then why not reach out and say "hello, wanna give us a go again?"
I liked both main characters and Shelby's dad. We have a few unlikable side characters, especially Shelby's mom, oye what a mess. Lyle is a close second. Overall, it didn't have a lot of banter, which I could have went for, but I had a great time reading it.
I was able to listen to an audio copy as well. Both narrators did a fine job. I'm not sure the flashbacks were seamless though. There was one part where they just whomped it up and next thing she's crying because he kissed her and said it was a mistake. Luckily, it's in italics in the ebook, so we could figure it out when reading
*Thanks to the author, St Martin's Press and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
October 19, 2022
Built to Last by Erin Hahn
Contemporary romance. Alternating chapters between male and female perspective.
Childhood tv stars Shelby and Cameron are back together rehabbing a house as a Pilot episode. As adults, they click back into habits and pour their hearts into building something renewed.
Adorable and touching. Hot romance with clever conflicts and a feeling of taking the high road ala Michelle O. A bit of humor and a few deep friendships. All the keys to a wonderful romance and a compelling story.
I want to look for more by this author. The timing and pace made it delightful.
Excerpt:
“I’ve never really delved into the whole ‘soul’ business before, bit of we do have souls and those souls have mates, Shelby’s mine. After all, I am hers in every literal iteration. Why should my soul be any different?”
Excerpt from Built to Last
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Contemporary romance. Alternating chapters between male and female perspective.
Childhood tv stars Shelby and Cameron are back together rehabbing a house as a Pilot episode. As adults, they click back into habits and pour their hearts into building something renewed.
Adorable and touching. Hot romance with clever conflicts and a feeling of taking the high road ala Michelle O. A bit of humor and a few deep friendships. All the keys to a wonderful romance and a compelling story.
I want to look for more by this author. The timing and pace made it delightful.
Excerpt:
“I’ve never really delved into the whole ‘soul’ business before, bit of we do have souls and those souls have mates, Shelby’s mine. After all, I am hers in every literal iteration. Why should my soul be any different?”
Excerpt from Built to Last
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
July 26, 2022
4 stars
When I first started Built to Last I wasn't how I felt about it. It took a bit for it to hook me, but once it did I became delighted with Cam and Shelby's second chance romance.
Shelby and Cam were childhood actors and grew up together. They were together for a bit as teenagers, but then Cam went to college and Shelby stayed in LA for a bit longer. It's now been 10 years since their show ended and they're in their late 20's. And they're going to be on the big screen together again.
I loved that this was a home improvement show and Shelby got to show off her true talent and Cam got to learn to flip a house while she restored. It had so many fun and sweet moments. I really enjoyed all of Erin Hahn's YA books I read and I'm happy that I enjoyed her debut adult romance as well.
When I first started Built to Last I wasn't how I felt about it. It took a bit for it to hook me, but once it did I became delighted with Cam and Shelby's second chance romance.
Shelby and Cam were childhood actors and grew up together. They were together for a bit as teenagers, but then Cam went to college and Shelby stayed in LA for a bit longer. It's now been 10 years since their show ended and they're in their late 20's. And they're going to be on the big screen together again.
I loved that this was a home improvement show and Shelby got to show off her true talent and Cam got to learn to flip a house while she restored. It had so many fun and sweet moments. I really enjoyed all of Erin Hahn's YA books I read and I'm happy that I enjoyed her debut adult romance as well.
November 16, 2022
✨Suck it Chip and Joanna✨
This was definitely not bad, but not for me. I’m apparently just really not into reality tv and the drama of that, former child stars, and shitty ex partners who dominate the entire book…so I liked the characters and such but it just really wasn’t a me book which is fine. It happens.
✨
What I Liked
- Despite being very annoyed with a lot of the plot, I did really like Cameron and Shelby. They were growers not showers for me. I enjoyed getting to see them work around each other and get a little frisky while HGTVing. The writing was fun and their POVs worked for me, especially by the end.
- This was pretty slow burn until it wasn’t because I Love You happened REAL fast after the burn picked up and it was a tad abrupt. But I did like how their relationship was as never in question. There was no third act breakup because nothing was going to break them.
- The steam was nice and very surprising, especially coming from a writer who also writes YA. The language wasn’t very explicit but I thought the scenes were very well written and fit the tone of the book.
✨
What I Didn’t Like (mild spoilers ahead)
- My biggest issue was Lyle. And Ada Mae. All of the conflict was external by the end, which was a lose-win. A loss because I despised Lyle and he did not get a proper shame tour. He still gets to profit off the show, he was a little annoying bitch for the ENTIRE book, and they even vaguely thanked him at the end???? Miss me with that forgiveness bullshit.
Lyle particularly gave me The Roughest Draft vibes and that is NOT a good thing. I really wish this book would’ve been enemies to lovers without a Lyle character. He was just so annoying. He was only there to create drama and I get that it’s for reality TV so again, not my jazz.
- Ada Mae was the same as Lyle. She was only partially relevant, but her character was annoying and tedious nonetheless, with a pretty shammy resolution. Sure, she got told off, but then she got to have her two cents in the article, make millions off of a lie-filled book, and then was never seen again.
And I get it this shit (bad people with less bad endings) happens all the time in real life, but in fiction I like vengeance. I like humiliation. I like complete financial ruin.
- The song/music video was very cheesy at the end and I could’ve gone without it. A little bit too Hallmark.
✨
This one’s hard to rate because I don’t think I’d ever read it again and I have even less interest in book two…but it was a good book and I did mostly like Erin’s writing. Not a four star read but not a full three star one either, I guess.
Objectively I recommend it because I see the appeal, but subjectively I don’t if that makes sense. Former child stars are SUPER big right now and I know this will be well received.
Real life celebrity drama and childhood stars are super interesting, and that’s why I always think I’ll love fiction books with the same premise. But I think my issue is that I never care about the fake celebrities like I care about real ones. These book always seem like a good idea to me, but I think content like this is more up my alley in a documentary.
I love HGTV especially the drama of it…for a half hour show. Reading a full book of such external drama was a little too much for me. I still liked the overall vibes, but got very frustrated with Lyle’s machinations. Most things were pretty surface level, but I still had some fun.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶🌶.75/5
Thanks to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley! All opinions are honest and my own.
This was definitely not bad, but not for me. I’m apparently just really not into reality tv and the drama of that, former child stars, and shitty ex partners who dominate the entire book…so I liked the characters and such but it just really wasn’t a me book which is fine. It happens.
✨
What I Liked
- Despite being very annoyed with a lot of the plot, I did really like Cameron and Shelby. They were growers not showers for me. I enjoyed getting to see them work around each other and get a little frisky while HGTVing. The writing was fun and their POVs worked for me, especially by the end.
Neutral Ground: This wasn’t enemies to lovers at all. I’d say former-friends to lovers to estranged-friends to coworkers to lovers. I maybe wanted a bit more of a shift from beginning to end with them because it was very evident from the beginning that they were both just hung-up on each other. It was fun but there was no mystery since it was dual POV.
- This was pretty slow burn until it wasn’t because I Love You happened REAL fast after the burn picked up and it was a tad abrupt. But I did like how their relationship was as never in question. There was no third act breakup because nothing was going to break them.
- The steam was nice and very surprising, especially coming from a writer who also writes YA. The language wasn’t very explicit but I thought the scenes were very well written and fit the tone of the book.
✨
What I Didn’t Like (mild spoilers ahead)
- My biggest issue was Lyle. And Ada Mae. All of the conflict was external by the end, which was a lose-win. A loss because I despised Lyle and he did not get a proper shame tour. He still gets to profit off the show, he was a little annoying bitch for the ENTIRE book, and they even vaguely thanked him at the end???? Miss me with that forgiveness bullshit.
Neutral Ground: But this was a win because there wasn’t a third act breakup, as the relationship was very solid by the end. It wasn’t very interesting to me, but it was refreshing and they were happy.
Lyle particularly gave me The Roughest Draft vibes and that is NOT a good thing. I really wish this book would’ve been enemies to lovers without a Lyle character. He was just so annoying. He was only there to create drama and I get that it’s for reality TV so again, not my jazz.
- Ada Mae was the same as Lyle. She was only partially relevant, but her character was annoying and tedious nonetheless, with a pretty shammy resolution. Sure, she got told off, but then she got to have her two cents in the article, make millions off of a lie-filled book, and then was never seen again.
And I get it this shit (bad people with less bad endings) happens all the time in real life, but in fiction I like vengeance. I like humiliation. I like complete financial ruin.
- The song/music video was very cheesy at the end and I could’ve gone without it. A little bit too Hallmark.
✨
This one’s hard to rate because I don’t think I’d ever read it again and I have even less interest in book two…but it was a good book and I did mostly like Erin’s writing. Not a four star read but not a full three star one either, I guess.
Objectively I recommend it because I see the appeal, but subjectively I don’t if that makes sense. Former child stars are SUPER big right now and I know this will be well received.
Real life celebrity drama and childhood stars are super interesting, and that’s why I always think I’ll love fiction books with the same premise. But I think my issue is that I never care about the fake celebrities like I care about real ones. These book always seem like a good idea to me, but I think content like this is more up my alley in a documentary.
I love HGTV especially the drama of it…for a half hour show. Reading a full book of such external drama was a little too much for me. I still liked the overall vibes, but got very frustrated with Lyle’s machinations. Most things were pretty surface level, but I still had some fun.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶🌶.75/5
Thanks to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley! All opinions are honest and my own.
September 8, 2022
Normally I can't get enough of the childhood friends to lovers trope, but unfortunately this one didn't quite hit the spot for me. It was still entertaining (after a slow start) and plenty sweet, but I was never fully sold on Cameron and Shelby still harboring such intense feelings for each other after having no communication for nearly a decade and considering the circumstances of how things broke apart. I understand that they both needed to grow in this time apart and were so very young when things started, but the feelings seemed too rooted in the past and based more on nostalgia than actual connection. I did appreciate that there wasn't a third act break up/miscommunication and that these two idiots to lovers were all in once they decided to give it a go. Cameron was a total cinnamon roll and the amount of pining this man did was off the charts. Overall, this was a cute read (with some open door scenes), but sadly I didn't love it as much as I hoped.
CW: toxic and exploitive parental relationship, cheating and manipulative ex, strained family relationships, profanity
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
CW: toxic and exploitive parental relationship, cheating and manipulative ex, strained family relationships, profanity
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
May 14, 2022
Built to Last is a second chance friends-to-lovers romance. I absolutely loved its premise and the main characters are so likeable. I found myself quickly getting wrapped up in the author's writing style, my only issue with the book is that the three main characters' history, although interesting, made for a bit messy of relationships and caused a good amount of miscommunication. Still, in spite of that, this book is painfully cute. Built to Last is a really good slow burn with so much mutual pining, I couldn't help but enjoy it.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the eARC!
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the eARC!
April 23, 2022
2.5 STARS 🏠👩🏼🔧🧑🏻🔧
First things first, I was given a copy of this book as an ARC, in exchange for an honest review. A big thank-you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Griffin, and Erin Hahn for allowing me to be an early reader!
I’m going to start this review off by saying I was quite disappointed. I had such high hopes for this book. The plot and storyline is so good, but unfortunately it just wasn’t executed right in my opinion.
Shelby Springfield and Cameron Riggs are childhood sweethearts. They starred in a popular teen show together and since then they’ve had a strong chemistry.
Eventually the two of them part. Cameron moves on to work for National Geographic, while Shelby has found a passion for home renovations and restoring antiques.
Years later, Cameron and Shelby get an opportunity to star together on a home renovation reality TV show. The two of them work together restoring antiques, renovating a home, and filming a pilot episode for the series.
Throughout the two of them working together, Shelby and Cameron are able to connect with one another again, and see that their chemistry hasn’t gone anywhere.
When I read the blurb of this book I was so excited. Second chance romances are one of my favourite tropes, and the home renovation aspect seemed so interesting to me.
There were just so many parts of this book that made me cringe and gave me second hand embarrassment. Also, as you can see, this book had me in a total slump. I’ve been reading this book since April 9th, and it is currently April 22nd. That being said, I think if you’re able to get past that, this book would be totally up your alley!
If the plot of this book piqued your interest, then make note of the release day: October 18th, 2022! x
First things first, I was given a copy of this book as an ARC, in exchange for an honest review. A big thank-you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Griffin, and Erin Hahn for allowing me to be an early reader!
I’m going to start this review off by saying I was quite disappointed. I had such high hopes for this book. The plot and storyline is so good, but unfortunately it just wasn’t executed right in my opinion.
Shelby Springfield and Cameron Riggs are childhood sweethearts. They starred in a popular teen show together and since then they’ve had a strong chemistry.
Eventually the two of them part. Cameron moves on to work for National Geographic, while Shelby has found a passion for home renovations and restoring antiques.
Years later, Cameron and Shelby get an opportunity to star together on a home renovation reality TV show. The two of them work together restoring antiques, renovating a home, and filming a pilot episode for the series.
Throughout the two of them working together, Shelby and Cameron are able to connect with one another again, and see that their chemistry hasn’t gone anywhere.
When I read the blurb of this book I was so excited. Second chance romances are one of my favourite tropes, and the home renovation aspect seemed so interesting to me.
There were just so many parts of this book that made me cringe and gave me second hand embarrassment. Also, as you can see, this book had me in a total slump. I’ve been reading this book since April 9th, and it is currently April 22nd. That being said, I think if you’re able to get past that, this book would be totally up your alley!
If the plot of this book piqued your interest, then make note of the release day: October 18th, 2022! x
November 6, 2022
this book was annoying because it jumped from past and present but it was like we left off where the main couple was super in love but broke it off and then we jump to the present where they see each other for the first time in a long time and they're friendly with each other. it threw me off. it was also boring and i hate their parents.
August 22, 2022
What a lovely low-key love story! Built To Last is perfect for readers who enjoy low-conflict romance books and/or who like watching home renovation shows. I’m currently going through an unhealthy phase of watching Ben & Erin Napier on their HGTV show, HomeTown. So, this book was the perfect accompaniment to that!
I’ve read and loved Erin Hahn’s YA romances (shoutout to Deanna for the rec). I thought her transition to adult romance was pretty seamless and well-done. Honestly, she’s one of the very few writers who can get me to enjoy a romance with famous people, which is a feat. In Built to Last, Cameron and Shelby are ex-famous people who are brought back together on a completely different platform. Think a home renovation show on HGTV! They used to work together on a Disney-channel-esque TV show when they were younger and had somewhat of a romantic relationship behind-the-scenes, until Cameron left for college. So, what we’ve got here is a childhood second-chance romance!
I LOVE a good second-chance romance, especially when the two parties are obviously meant-to-be. There’s something very exciting about anticipating that moment when they finally get back together the second time around. And these two had history together that made their relationship feel natural. However, this book does manage to be low-angst. Don’t get me wrong. I loved the progression of their romance, and even more that there was no third-act breakup, but I think would have liked a little bit more tension between the two. What could have really helped here are more flashbacks to their relationship when they were younger. Regardless though, their emotional connection with each other was undeniable. I loved that Hahn shows readers just how much these two cared for each other through small but substantial actions. Plus, I loved how they opened their hearts together and weren’t afraid to unabashedly communicate.
You know I’m usually rooting just a teensy bit harder for the heroine in my books, and while I definitely did root for Shelby, I fell a harder for Cameron. He’s down-to-earth, gentle, and would literally drop everything to come help Shelby when she needed it. A+ boyfriend material, if you ask me. And I’m just weak for a hero who is all-in for the heroine from the very start. What can I say? I encourage simp-like behavior in ALL romance love interests. Cameron is very swoon-worthy and I have no doubts readers will fall for him as much as I did.
I loved what Erin Hahn did with Shelby too. She’s not perfect by any means but the author takes her on a journey of growth throughout her years. She’s been emotionally manipulated and mistreated by so many people in life including her own mother and her ex-boyfriend, Lyle. So, it’s not hard to understand why she had her hot-mess moments, especially when she’s been in the limelight as a young actor. But she ultimately wound up channeling her emotions into a more productive outlet of restoration along with the support of her father and friends. It was such a great way to stand-up to the naysayers and toxic people in her life.
Let me wrap-up this review by saying how fun I found the home renovation aspects of this book. I really am such a sucker for them though you would not catch me anywhere near a restoration myself. Too clumsy for that. I also really liked the secondary cast (other than Lyle and his wife who were irritable gnats) and I loved the foreshadowing of the potential next couple – I’m already a bit feral for them. Shelby’s friends are amazing and provide a wonderful support system to her! Also, her dad?? MVP of the book! I LOVED that man and would totally read a novella of him finding love with his partner!
In conclusion, I was very satisfied with Erin Hahn’s adult debut and I can’t wait to read more from her. Fingers crossed we’ll see more of Shelby and Cameron in future installments! :)
Content notes: on-page sex, emotional manipulation, slut-shaming, toxic parents
Relationship disclosure: None
I’ve read and loved Erin Hahn’s YA romances (shoutout to Deanna for the rec). I thought her transition to adult romance was pretty seamless and well-done. Honestly, she’s one of the very few writers who can get me to enjoy a romance with famous people, which is a feat. In Built to Last, Cameron and Shelby are ex-famous people who are brought back together on a completely different platform. Think a home renovation show on HGTV! They used to work together on a Disney-channel-esque TV show when they were younger and had somewhat of a romantic relationship behind-the-scenes, until Cameron left for college. So, what we’ve got here is a childhood second-chance romance!
I LOVE a good second-chance romance, especially when the two parties are obviously meant-to-be. There’s something very exciting about anticipating that moment when they finally get back together the second time around. And these two had history together that made their relationship feel natural. However, this book does manage to be low-angst. Don’t get me wrong. I loved the progression of their romance, and even more that there was no third-act breakup, but I think would have liked a little bit more tension between the two. What could have really helped here are more flashbacks to their relationship when they were younger. Regardless though, their emotional connection with each other was undeniable. I loved that Hahn shows readers just how much these two cared for each other through small but substantial actions. Plus, I loved how they opened their hearts together and weren’t afraid to unabashedly communicate.
You know I’m usually rooting just a teensy bit harder for the heroine in my books, and while I definitely did root for Shelby, I fell a harder for Cameron. He’s down-to-earth, gentle, and would literally drop everything to come help Shelby when she needed it. A+ boyfriend material, if you ask me. And I’m just weak for a hero who is all-in for the heroine from the very start. What can I say? I encourage simp-like behavior in ALL romance love interests. Cameron is very swoon-worthy and I have no doubts readers will fall for him as much as I did.
I loved what Erin Hahn did with Shelby too. She’s not perfect by any means but the author takes her on a journey of growth throughout her years. She’s been emotionally manipulated and mistreated by so many people in life including her own mother and her ex-boyfriend, Lyle. So, it’s not hard to understand why she had her hot-mess moments, especially when she’s been in the limelight as a young actor. But she ultimately wound up channeling her emotions into a more productive outlet of restoration along with the support of her father and friends. It was such a great way to stand-up to the naysayers and toxic people in her life.
Let me wrap-up this review by saying how fun I found the home renovation aspects of this book. I really am such a sucker for them though you would not catch me anywhere near a restoration myself. Too clumsy for that. I also really liked the secondary cast (other than Lyle and his wife who were irritable gnats) and I loved the foreshadowing of the potential next couple – I’m already a bit feral for them. Shelby’s friends are amazing and provide a wonderful support system to her! Also, her dad?? MVP of the book! I LOVED that man and would totally read a novella of him finding love with his partner!
In conclusion, I was very satisfied with Erin Hahn’s adult debut and I can’t wait to read more from her. Fingers crossed we’ll see more of Shelby and Cameron in future installments! :)
Content notes: on-page sex, emotional manipulation, slut-shaming, toxic parents
Relationship disclosure: None
October 29, 2022
4.5 stars, rounded up.
One of my favorite YA romance writers releases her first adult romance…and it’s so good!!
Shelby was a popular child star and pop singer, starring on a hit television show. When her relationship with her costar, Lyle, ends badly, she has a bit of a public meltdown and then retreats to her childhood home in Michigan, where she recognizes her talent for restoring and improving vintage furniture.
Whenever Shelby has had a problem, her other costar, Cameron, has come running. But whenever they get close enough to act on their feelings for one another, Cameron runs again, pursuing a successful career as a nature photographer and documentarian around the world.
Five years later, Lyle tries to get Shelby and Cameron together to film the pilot of a home renovation show. Shelby is interested in showing the world that she’s moved past her messy phase and is a grown woman with real talent. Cameron is tired of running, and as much as the idea of giving in to his feelings for Shelby appeals, he doesn’t know how long he can stay. And of course, Lyle is just interested in causing trouble for the both of them.
I love second-chance romance and I’m a sucker for home renovation shows, so this was such a winner for me. As always with Erin Hahn’s books, the supporting cast is fantastic—there could be books about so many of them. There’s chemistry and banter and romance and even some steam, and I was there for all of it!
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/getbookedwithlarry/.
One of my favorite YA romance writers releases her first adult romance…and it’s so good!!
Shelby was a popular child star and pop singer, starring on a hit television show. When her relationship with her costar, Lyle, ends badly, she has a bit of a public meltdown and then retreats to her childhood home in Michigan, where she recognizes her talent for restoring and improving vintage furniture.
Whenever Shelby has had a problem, her other costar, Cameron, has come running. But whenever they get close enough to act on their feelings for one another, Cameron runs again, pursuing a successful career as a nature photographer and documentarian around the world.
Five years later, Lyle tries to get Shelby and Cameron together to film the pilot of a home renovation show. Shelby is interested in showing the world that she’s moved past her messy phase and is a grown woman with real talent. Cameron is tired of running, and as much as the idea of giving in to his feelings for Shelby appeals, he doesn’t know how long he can stay. And of course, Lyle is just interested in causing trouble for the both of them.
I love second-chance romance and I’m a sucker for home renovation shows, so this was such a winner for me. As always with Erin Hahn’s books, the supporting cast is fantastic—there could be books about so many of them. There’s chemistry and banter and romance and even some steam, and I was there for all of it!
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/getbookedwithlarry/.
October 18, 2022
This review can also be found at https://carolesrandomlife.com/
I had such a good time with this book! I have read and enjoyed two of Erin Hahn’s young adult romances so far (I still have one that I need to read and hope to remedy that situation soon.) so I was really eager to read her first book for adults. I had high hopes for this book and it did not disappoint. I fell in love with Cameron and Shelby right away and couldn’t wait to see them find their happily ever after. This is definitely a book worth picking up.
Cameron and Shelby have known each other since they were kids starring on a tween show and were first loves. They are older now but the spark between them is still there as they work together on the pilot for a home renovation show, HomeMade. Shelby has spent years refurbishing furniture and helping her dad restore homes while Cameron is new to the whole business of home renovation since he has spent years traveling the world with his job with National Geographic.
These two were meant for each other. The chemistry between them was off the charts but I liked the fact that they took things at a slower pace because I felt like we really got to see them fall for each other. They were so supportive of each other, especially when Lyle would try to make things difficult for them just to get a reaction for the camera. I love that they have a history together and were able to understand the fame of growing up in front of a camera. They both were so down to earth and deserved to have good things happen in their lives.
I would recommend this book to others. Erin Hahn is quickly becoming a favorite author. This book was filled with fantastic characters, some swoon-worthy moments, and just enough humor. I will definitely be reading more of her work soon.
I received a digital review copy of this book from St. Martin’s Press.
Initial Thoughts
I just loved Shelby and Cameron! These two absolutely belonged together and I loved watching them figure things out. They have known each other since they were kids starring on a tween show and were first loves. They are older now but the spark between them is still there as they work together on the pilot for a home renovation show. This one put a big old smile on my face.
I had such a good time with this book! I have read and enjoyed two of Erin Hahn’s young adult romances so far (I still have one that I need to read and hope to remedy that situation soon.) so I was really eager to read her first book for adults. I had high hopes for this book and it did not disappoint. I fell in love with Cameron and Shelby right away and couldn’t wait to see them find their happily ever after. This is definitely a book worth picking up.
Cameron and Shelby have known each other since they were kids starring on a tween show and were first loves. They are older now but the spark between them is still there as they work together on the pilot for a home renovation show, HomeMade. Shelby has spent years refurbishing furniture and helping her dad restore homes while Cameron is new to the whole business of home renovation since he has spent years traveling the world with his job with National Geographic.
These two were meant for each other. The chemistry between them was off the charts but I liked the fact that they took things at a slower pace because I felt like we really got to see them fall for each other. They were so supportive of each other, especially when Lyle would try to make things difficult for them just to get a reaction for the camera. I love that they have a history together and were able to understand the fame of growing up in front of a camera. They both were so down to earth and deserved to have good things happen in their lives.
I would recommend this book to others. Erin Hahn is quickly becoming a favorite author. This book was filled with fantastic characters, some swoon-worthy moments, and just enough humor. I will definitely be reading more of her work soon.
I received a digital review copy of this book from St. Martin’s Press.
Initial Thoughts
I just loved Shelby and Cameron! These two absolutely belonged together and I loved watching them figure things out. They have known each other since they were kids starring on a tween show and were first loves. They are older now but the spark between them is still there as they work together on the pilot for a home renovation show. This one put a big old smile on my face.
December 5, 2022
This is a twist on the wish-fulfillment celebrity fantasy as both Cameron and Shelby are ex-child stars who have moved into post-fame careers. Of the two, Shelby did the more spectacular crash and burn before finding stability with her Midwest father who, coincidentally, mentored her into a career she has grown to love.
This book had two weaknesses that got in the way of my full engagement. The first isn't that bad and that's Lyle, Shelby's jerk ex (costar, lover, pop hit wonder). He has embraced Hollywood in all the worst ways and his machinations grated on me badly. Worse, they made no sense and I never did figure out what he was supposedly getting out of dredging up the past. So while it amused me the ongoing joke that nobody could mention his name without a specific epithet following, that amusement was short-lived.
The more serious impediment was that I found Cameron rather weak. He isn't really passionate about anything and while he has obviously been in love with Shelby forever, he has done exactly nothing about it. Sure, he shows up when she calls after hitting bottom, but then he's off again. He seems forever poised to respond to her, but yet, only if she moves first. I dunno, I just don't find that passivity attractive in a romantic lead.
Offsetting that somewhat is Cameron working through their miscommunications. At least he becomes active in learning to see beyond the surface of Shelby's responses. And I did love him bonding with Shelby's father and adopting him as a mentor. Frankly, Shelby's father was made of win as he's working through not being there for her when she needed him as a child.
Also, Shelby was kind of fantastic. In fact, her depiction may be the greatest strength of the story as Hahn avoided all the tricky pitfalls of a child star finding herself away from the Hollywood cesspit. I liked seeing the woman she had made of herself after hitting bottom and how she had gathered friends and contentment in what others would see as a smaller life.
I'm struggling to give this more than three stars, despite liking Shelby as much as I did. Cameron really was hard for me to engage with and I couldn't help wanting someone more assertive/active for Shelby. I'd be tempted to round up to four if it weren't for the underlying weakness that was Lyle's malevolent intrusions. So three stars it is.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple of explicit sex scenes, including one from their past, putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. They fit the characters well and were involved in the miscommunications both had to grow through. Which I liked.
This book had two weaknesses that got in the way of my full engagement. The first isn't that bad and that's Lyle, Shelby's jerk ex (costar, lover, pop hit wonder). He has embraced Hollywood in all the worst ways and his machinations grated on me badly. Worse, they made no sense and I never did figure out what he was supposedly getting out of dredging up the past. So while it amused me the ongoing joke that nobody could mention his name without a specific epithet following, that amusement was short-lived.
The more serious impediment was that I found Cameron rather weak. He isn't really passionate about anything and while he has obviously been in love with Shelby forever, he has done exactly nothing about it. Sure, he shows up when she calls after hitting bottom, but then he's off again. He seems forever poised to respond to her, but yet, only if she moves first. I dunno, I just don't find that passivity attractive in a romantic lead.
Offsetting that somewhat is Cameron working through their miscommunications. At least he becomes active in learning to see beyond the surface of Shelby's responses. And I did love him bonding with Shelby's father and adopting him as a mentor. Frankly, Shelby's father was made of win as he's working through not being there for her when she needed him as a child.
Also, Shelby was kind of fantastic. In fact, her depiction may be the greatest strength of the story as Hahn avoided all the tricky pitfalls of a child star finding herself away from the Hollywood cesspit. I liked seeing the woman she had made of herself after hitting bottom and how she had gathered friends and contentment in what others would see as a smaller life.
I'm struggling to give this more than three stars, despite liking Shelby as much as I did. Cameron really was hard for me to engage with and I couldn't help wanting someone more assertive/active for Shelby. I'd be tempted to round up to four if it weren't for the underlying weakness that was Lyle's malevolent intrusions. So three stars it is.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple of explicit sex scenes, including one from their past, putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. They fit the characters well and were involved in the miscommunications both had to grow through. Which I liked.
December 21, 2022
Shelby Springfield, Lyle Jessup, and Cameron Riggs were all TV child stars together. But things imploded, ending with a very public breakup between Shelby and Lyle. Shelby has spent the last ten years working with her dad, making furniture and avoiding the spotlight--while trying to ignore her feelings for Cameron, her first love. Cameron, meanwhile, travels around making documentaries, but he's always been able to come to Shelby's rescue when she calls. When Lyle comes up with a harebrained scheme to reunite Shelby and Cameron on a home renovation show, both are hesitant. But it gives Cameron a chance to come home to Michigan and Shelby to prove she's not a washed up party girl. Can they pull the show off--even with Lyle pulling their strings?
This was slow to start, but totally won me over! I was not sure I would like Shelby at first, which is a major block for a romance, but she definitely grew on me. In fact, she and Cameron have sparkling and fun chemistry, and I found the two of them to be totally charming. It was nice to have a (female) character in Shelby who knew her way around home reno and furniture making. Both Cameron and Shelby had their own wounds, of course, leading to their hesitancy in moving forward with romance. But watching them grow--and flirt--was a lot of fun!
The home renovation angle here was enjoyable--who doesn't love a good home renovation reality show, right? The book is populated with wonderful side characters in Cameron and Shelby's friends. (Very excited that one of them, Lorelei, is getting her story told next!) It's told from Shelby and Cameron's points of view, along with a smattering of news stories--a format which works really well. I enjoyed a chance to hear from both of our main characters. Lyle is a good villain and just makes it even easier to root for our charming couple!
Overall, this is a fun romance that just made me happy. You need those sometimes. 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book from St. Martin's Griffin and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
This was slow to start, but totally won me over! I was not sure I would like Shelby at first, which is a major block for a romance, but she definitely grew on me. In fact, she and Cameron have sparkling and fun chemistry, and I found the two of them to be totally charming. It was nice to have a (female) character in Shelby who knew her way around home reno and furniture making. Both Cameron and Shelby had their own wounds, of course, leading to their hesitancy in moving forward with romance. But watching them grow--and flirt--was a lot of fun!
The home renovation angle here was enjoyable--who doesn't love a good home renovation reality show, right? The book is populated with wonderful side characters in Cameron and Shelby's friends. (Very excited that one of them, Lorelei, is getting her story told next!) It's told from Shelby and Cameron's points of view, along with a smattering of news stories--a format which works really well. I enjoyed a chance to hear from both of our main characters. Lyle is a good villain and just makes it even easier to root for our charming couple!
Overall, this is a fun romance that just made me happy. You need those sometimes. 4 stars.
I received a copy of this book from St. Martin's Griffin and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
March 12, 2022
My heart is so happy!
July 7, 2022
I'm so in love with this book. I really hope everyone reads it when it comes out, because you will for sure love it as soon as you start reading it. Built to Last is a second-chance romance between childhood sweethearts who have become estranged, but now must work together in a new home renovation reality TV show.
This book delivered ANGST, PINING, YEARNING, UNRESOLVED FEELINGS, you know... what I ADORE IN ROMANCE!!! Cameron and Shelby are soulmates, it's confirmed. They were meant to be together and they make so much sense together. I love seeing them reunite and show the other how much they have loved them. Cam has always been there for Shelby, since the very first moment. Oh Shelby got cheated on publicly AND her ex wrote a Grammy-winning song about her? Cam is taking the first flight back to LA to see her. Doesn't matter if they hadn't seen each other in 5 years. HE'S THERE. HE WILL ALWAYS HAVE HER BACK. I love him my friends.
I annotated this book so much. There are so many quotes, cute moments, scenes between the two of them but also I love their families and their friends. This little group of people is so wonderful. I cannot wait to see Lorelai's story and I BET IT'S ALSO GOING TO BE A SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE MAYBE??? Hmmm let's hope and see.
Shelby is a former party girl, former child star, but now she renovates old furniture in a small town. She doesn't want the lights, the popularity, or the gossip that she grew up in. But when her infamous ex approaches her and Cam, her childhood sweatheart and estranged best friend, they agree to do a home renovation show! I adore the plot, the story, everything. It's also quite steamy, like it has its moments and I was like OH MY GOD. Cam and Shelby do it everywhere, they're so horny for each other.
ALSO HELLO SHELBY STEALING CAM'S SHIRT TWELVE YEARS AGO AND SHE STILL USES IT TO SLEEP??? AND HE SEES HER IN IT AND IS LIKE "WAIT????? THAT'S MY SHIRT???" AND SHE'S LIKE OOPS YEAHHH. I love them, your honor.
This book delivered ANGST, PINING, YEARNING, UNRESOLVED FEELINGS, you know... what I ADORE IN ROMANCE!!! Cameron and Shelby are soulmates, it's confirmed. They were meant to be together and they make so much sense together. I love seeing them reunite and show the other how much they have loved them. Cam has always been there for Shelby, since the very first moment. Oh Shelby got cheated on publicly AND her ex wrote a Grammy-winning song about her? Cam is taking the first flight back to LA to see her. Doesn't matter if they hadn't seen each other in 5 years. HE'S THERE. HE WILL ALWAYS HAVE HER BACK. I love him my friends.
I annotated this book so much. There are so many quotes, cute moments, scenes between the two of them but also I love their families and their friends. This little group of people is so wonderful. I cannot wait to see Lorelai's story and I BET IT'S ALSO GOING TO BE A SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE MAYBE??? Hmmm let's hope and see.
Shelby is a former party girl, former child star, but now she renovates old furniture in a small town. She doesn't want the lights, the popularity, or the gossip that she grew up in. But when her infamous ex approaches her and Cam, her childhood sweatheart and estranged best friend, they agree to do a home renovation show! I adore the plot, the story, everything. It's also quite steamy, like it has its moments and I was like OH MY GOD. Cam and Shelby do it everywhere, they're so horny for each other.
ALSO HELLO SHELBY STEALING CAM'S SHIRT TWELVE YEARS AGO AND SHE STILL USES IT TO SLEEP??? AND HE SEES HER IN IT AND IS LIKE "WAIT????? THAT'S MY SHIRT???" AND SHE'S LIKE OOPS YEAHHH. I love them, your honor.
May 5, 2024
Built to Last is cute. I like the plot and the story idea. I like the characters. But the writing is more YA and not so much NA/ adult rom com.
When I read about Miss Hahn turns out she is a YA writer.
Overall still enjoyable book.
3 stars
When I read about Miss Hahn turns out she is a YA writer.
Overall still enjoyable book.
3 stars
October 14, 2022
Built to Last is a fun contemporary romance about two child actors who reconnect after a decade to work on a home renovation show together. Cameron and Shelby are both likable and well-developed characters, and they have a chemistry-laden second chance romance.
I liked this romance, but I did find it a little hard to get into. Shelby isn’t the most likable character at the start of the book, and I hated how she used Cam. And the way Cam left her wasn’t a good look either. Fast forward several years, and Shelby is trying to prove she’s not the party girl that she used to be. She goes through a lot of growth throughout the story and becomes more likable, and it’s easy to see why she struggles so much. Dysfunctional family relationships and being in the spotlight from a young age definitely affects her emotional growth and well-being. The second half of the story picked up a bit, especially when it came to the romance and steam.
Shelby and Cam are in love with each other from the start, and I was a little frustrated that it took so long for them to work their issues out. If only they talked about their feelings, they could have prevented a lot of their problems much sooner than they did. Insecurities and lack of communication prove big hurdles for this couple, as do a few other characters.
I liked how the story focused on the home renovation show, and I think it will appeal to readers who enjoy HGTV. Also, some of the secondary characters are great, and I have a feeling several will be the focus of future books. Finally, the story delves into the struggles of child actors and toxic relationships and how both define, influence, and change people. Though these are heavy topics, the story as a whole is pretty light.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
I liked this romance, but I did find it a little hard to get into. Shelby isn’t the most likable character at the start of the book, and I hated how she used Cam. And the way Cam left her wasn’t a good look either. Fast forward several years, and Shelby is trying to prove she’s not the party girl that she used to be. She goes through a lot of growth throughout the story and becomes more likable, and it’s easy to see why she struggles so much. Dysfunctional family relationships and being in the spotlight from a young age definitely affects her emotional growth and well-being. The second half of the story picked up a bit, especially when it came to the romance and steam.
Shelby and Cam are in love with each other from the start, and I was a little frustrated that it took so long for them to work their issues out. If only they talked about their feelings, they could have prevented a lot of their problems much sooner than they did. Insecurities and lack of communication prove big hurdles for this couple, as do a few other characters.
I liked how the story focused on the home renovation show, and I think it will appeal to readers who enjoy HGTV. Also, some of the secondary characters are great, and I have a feeling several will be the focus of future books. Finally, the story delves into the struggles of child actors and toxic relationships and how both define, influence, and change people. Though these are heavy topics, the story as a whole is pretty light.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
May 3, 2022
I was really excited when I saw this cover and read the description. It sounded like a cute and fun story and while it was it did disappoint me a bit. I liked the two main characters Shelby and Cameron but I hated Lyle (as you were supposed to) and wanted them to fire him or do something instead of how it all went down. Cameron, Shelby, and Lyle were all child actors on the same show growing up together. Cameron and Shelby were stealing moments off camera while Shelby and Lyle had the on screen romance, but when Cameron went off to college Shelby and Lyle started to date. After a messy breakup with Lyle Shelby finally leaves LA to find her own way and joins her father in home renovation. Fast Forward to the present and Shelby and Cameron are brought together to do a pilot for a home renovation show. I thought Cameron and Shelby both were kinda dumb but super sweet but they put up with way too much from several nasty characters. I did like Shelby’s best friend and the promise of room for a sequel with her story.
May 6, 2025
Built to Last
4.5✨
The chemistry between Shelby and Cameron is real
I take a deep breath and release it. That's the part I'm struggling with, I realize. We're building this for someone else, but I'm still building it for her.
"But why not doing it the easy way?"
She presses her lips together a moment before responding. "Just because they're strangers, doesn't mean they don't deserve the best. whoever makes this their foever hone deserves a whole hallway full of bold windows teasing in sunshine or freshly mown grass or whatever. They deserve bookshelves lovingly restored to house their favorite books or collectibles. They deserve a cosy nook for w respite from the world, ad I can give it yo them. We can.
order to read
1: Built to Last
2: Friends don't Fall in Love
3: Catch and Keep
4.5✨
The chemistry between Shelby and Cameron is real
I take a deep breath and release it. That's the part I'm struggling with, I realize. We're building this for someone else, but I'm still building it for her.
"But why not doing it the easy way?"
She presses her lips together a moment before responding. "Just because they're strangers, doesn't mean they don't deserve the best. whoever makes this their foever hone deserves a whole hallway full of bold windows teasing in sunshine or freshly mown grass or whatever. They deserve bookshelves lovingly restored to house their favorite books or collectibles. They deserve a cosy nook for w respite from the world, ad I can give it yo them. We can.
order to read
1: Built to Last
2: Friends don't Fall in Love
3: Catch and Keep
June 8, 2022
This was such a sweet second-chance romance. Shelby and Cameron were child-stars on a popular show, and secretly crushed on each other during those growing-up years. After the show was over and they went different ways, they always harbored feelings. So when they are asked to get together to co-star on a home renovation show, sparks fly.
The chemistry was very real, and I loved watching these two work, flirt, and communicate. I also loved Shelby's dad and the the group of friends surrounding both of the main characters. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good, swoony contemporary romance.
Thanks to Netgalley and Erin Hahn for the ARC of this book.
The chemistry was very real, and I loved watching these two work, flirt, and communicate. I also loved Shelby's dad and the the group of friends surrounding both of the main characters. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good, swoony contemporary romance.
Thanks to Netgalley and Erin Hahn for the ARC of this book.
July 22, 2022
This was definitely the light-hearted HEA story I needed after a couple of very heavy reads. Romcoms are the perfect books for me when I want to slip away to a happy place and enjoy humorous banter and fun flirting. My favorite romcom trop is second-chance love so when saw the synopsis for this book, I requested a copy right away!
Shelby and Cameron met while young teens acting in a television series. This story opens with them both working outside of Hollywood - Cameron with National Geography and Shelby building a name for herself in home renovation/restorations. When an ex-boyfriend brings them together again to film a house-flipping TV show, the sparks begin to fly immediately. Both Shelby and Cameron are such likeable characters. Their friends are just as likeable and hopefully at least one of them will get the next book dedicated to their story?! And then there is Shelby's ex - Lyle - and he is super easy to dislike.
I really liked the honest family dynamics. Shelby had a crappy mom who seemed only interested in what she could get from Shelby's fame. Her father, admittedly somewhat absent from her younger years, works hard to make up for lost time. Cameron on the other hand, has a doting and supportive mother, and a father who he feels like he can never be good enough for. He has run a narrative though his own head that's hard for him to change.
The character growth was great to see. I loved the home renovation aspect and the fact that Shelby and Cameron were intent on fixing up these houses for the everyday buyer in that Michigan market. I loved their banter, their chemistry and their easy relationship. My only small complaint is over the way Lyle acted in the end. I'm not sure I believed that outcome was likely. Even with that though, this book was such a fun and enjoyable read. Definitely recommend! Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advance copy to read and review.
Shelby and Cameron met while young teens acting in a television series. This story opens with them both working outside of Hollywood - Cameron with National Geography and Shelby building a name for herself in home renovation/restorations. When an ex-boyfriend brings them together again to film a house-flipping TV show, the sparks begin to fly immediately. Both Shelby and Cameron are such likeable characters. Their friends are just as likeable and hopefully at least one of them will get the next book dedicated to their story?! And then there is Shelby's ex - Lyle - and he is super easy to dislike.
I really liked the honest family dynamics. Shelby had a crappy mom who seemed only interested in what she could get from Shelby's fame. Her father, admittedly somewhat absent from her younger years, works hard to make up for lost time. Cameron on the other hand, has a doting and supportive mother, and a father who he feels like he can never be good enough for. He has run a narrative though his own head that's hard for him to change.
The character growth was great to see. I loved the home renovation aspect and the fact that Shelby and Cameron were intent on fixing up these houses for the everyday buyer in that Michigan market. I loved their banter, their chemistry and their easy relationship. My only small complaint is over the way Lyle acted in the end. I'm not sure I believed that outcome was likely. Even with that though, this book was such a fun and enjoyable read. Definitely recommend! Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advance copy to read and review.
October 18, 2022
2.5 ⭐️ Unfortunately, this wasn't my favorite. In Built to Last, Shelby and Cameron are childhood TV stars AND childhood sweethearts, which sounded like an adorable combination! The fact that they go their separate ways and reconnect a decade later to film a home renovation show sounded even better!
Sadly, despite being 27-years-old, the characters felt very immature and the conflict is somewhat juvenile. This is Hahn's first adult novel, but it still read like a YA/NA book to me. It’s pretty “insta-love” and I was very confused in the beginning with the flashbacks and the history all the characters share. I couldn't connect to Shelby or Cameron and the plot felt a tad too unrealistic. The whole storyline of the three former costars reconnecting felt so random and I still don't quite understand why Shelby's ex Lyle was "producing" the new TV show (I use quotation marks here because Shelby specifically says he isn't the producer... then what is he?). I also can't really get on board with Shelby helping out her contractor dad a few times and then BAM! Next thing we know she's a restoration mastermind. Also, she's gorgeous and her hair is flawless and her friends drop everything for her if she's having a *moment*.
This is a cute book and it looks like other reviewers are absolutely adoring it, so please take my cranky review with a grain of salt. I’m probably just bitter because restoring old homes is my dream job and my dad didn't teach me how to become Joanna Gaines overnight. (But he did give me these “tools” and this is probably the third time I’ve “used” them in a decade so watch out JoJo!)
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book; all opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for allowing me to be an early reader.
PUB DATE: October 18, 2022
Sadly, despite being 27-years-old, the characters felt very immature and the conflict is somewhat juvenile. This is Hahn's first adult novel, but it still read like a YA/NA book to me. It’s pretty “insta-love” and I was very confused in the beginning with the flashbacks and the history all the characters share. I couldn't connect to Shelby or Cameron and the plot felt a tad too unrealistic. The whole storyline of the three former costars reconnecting felt so random and I still don't quite understand why Shelby's ex Lyle was "producing" the new TV show (I use quotation marks here because Shelby specifically says he isn't the producer... then what is he?). I also can't really get on board with Shelby helping out her contractor dad a few times and then BAM! Next thing we know she's a restoration mastermind. Also, she's gorgeous and her hair is flawless and her friends drop everything for her if she's having a *moment*.
This is a cute book and it looks like other reviewers are absolutely adoring it, so please take my cranky review with a grain of salt. I’m probably just bitter because restoring old homes is my dream job and my dad didn't teach me how to become Joanna Gaines overnight. (But he did give me these “tools” and this is probably the third time I’ve “used” them in a decade so watch out JoJo!)
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book; all opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for allowing me to be an early reader.
PUB DATE: October 18, 2022
October 20, 2022
This was a feel-good, dual POV, second chance, friends to lovers romance between two childhood co-stars who are reunited years after their tv show ended when they agree to be on a reality renovation show. Shelby and Cameron fell hard in their teens but when Cameron left unexpectedly Shelby moved on. This new tv show provides an opportunity for these two to resolve their past and see if they might have a chance a real relationship in the present. Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review! This was my first Erin Hahn book and was good on audio too. I'm looking forward to seeing what's next from this talented author.
Recommended for fans of Maggie moves on by Lucy Score or Homewreckers by Mary Kay Andrews.
Recommended for fans of Maggie moves on by Lucy Score or Homewreckers by Mary Kay Andrews.
September 26, 2022
I adore the way Erin Hahn tells a story. There is something so effortlessly addicting in the writing, and so unexpectedly rewarding in the humor. I have loved this author’s YA and, as it turns out, I love her contemporary romcoms as well.
I am powerless to resist a Hollywood / famous person trope, and this sort of stripped down “where are they now” glimpse at fame and child stardom was *chef’s kiss* the exact sort of thing I die for. Outside of the opening chapter, where I was really, really uncertain if I was going to be able to handle Shelby, there’s not much Hollywood scandal or glam going on – but I honestly preferred the sort of “acoustic” Hollywood Hahn delivered with this story.
And, despite my early misgivings, I absolutely adored Shelby and, even moreso, the adorable relationship she had with Cameron. If there was unnecessary drama, it wasn’t happening between Shelby and Cameron. I loved how they respected each other and communicated with each other and stood up for each other when the situation demanded it. I loved how they gently walked with each other as they sorted through old baggage and committed to not allowing that to derail the beautiful thing that was blossoming between them.
Ugh. I just loved them so much.
But my favorite thing might have been the secondary characters. Shelby and Cameron’s friends were scene-stealers extraordinaire (especially Kevin who accidentally stole my heart from the go). I loved the banter, the humor, and the tough love. I loved how supportive and protective they were. And, of course, I loved how it all came together in the end (leaving me with a few sniffily tears).
I just genuinely enjoyed this story so much and am hoping there will be more of these wonderful characters in my future! ~ Shelly, 4.5 Stars
I am powerless to resist a Hollywood / famous person trope, and this sort of stripped down “where are they now” glimpse at fame and child stardom was *chef’s kiss* the exact sort of thing I die for. Outside of the opening chapter, where I was really, really uncertain if I was going to be able to handle Shelby, there’s not much Hollywood scandal or glam going on – but I honestly preferred the sort of “acoustic” Hollywood Hahn delivered with this story.
And, despite my early misgivings, I absolutely adored Shelby and, even moreso, the adorable relationship she had with Cameron. If there was unnecessary drama, it wasn’t happening between Shelby and Cameron. I loved how they respected each other and communicated with each other and stood up for each other when the situation demanded it. I loved how they gently walked with each other as they sorted through old baggage and committed to not allowing that to derail the beautiful thing that was blossoming between them.
Ugh. I just loved them so much.
But my favorite thing might have been the secondary characters. Shelby and Cameron’s friends were scene-stealers extraordinaire (especially Kevin who accidentally stole my heart from the go). I loved the banter, the humor, and the tough love. I loved how supportive and protective they were. And, of course, I loved how it all came together in the end (leaving me with a few sniffily tears).
I just genuinely enjoyed this story so much and am hoping there will be more of these wonderful characters in my future! ~ Shelly, 4.5 Stars
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