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Swan Cove
The [ex] Spy Who [maybe] Loved Me
NYC is exactly what scientist Blake Montgomery needs. A little decadence and a whoooole lot of anonymity, well away from the prying eyes of her charming, touristy small town of Swan Cove. Now, at the end of a whirlwind trip, she has one final thing to cross off her to-do list: a sexy fling. And the hot, green-eyed stranger at the Maine airport bar might be her perfect one-night stand. Until, of course, he shows up in her town the very next day.
Wyatt Keene is just an average guy—now. But four days ago, he was a black ops intelligence agent who spent fifteen years being someone—anyone—except himself. For one hot night, Blake makes him forget he’s supposed to start his life all over again…as himself. Talk about mission impossible.
Except suddenly Wyatt and Blake are not only stuck in the same town together, but also sharing the same office, and there’s no escaping their scorching hot chemistry. Wyatt’s trying to convince everyone, especially Blake, that he’s just a normal guy—whatever that means. But nothing spells danger like trying to start a relationship with an ex-spy who hasn’t quite left his old life behind…
Wyatt Keene is just an average guy—now. But four days ago, he was a black ops intelligence agent who spent fifteen years being someone—anyone—except himself. For one hot night, Blake makes him forget he’s supposed to start his life all over again…as himself. Talk about mission impossible.
Except suddenly Wyatt and Blake are not only stuck in the same town together, but also sharing the same office, and there’s no escaping their scorching hot chemistry. Wyatt’s trying to convince everyone, especially Blake, that he’s just a normal guy—whatever that means. But nothing spells danger like trying to start a relationship with an ex-spy who hasn’t quite left his old life behind…
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 20, 2023
35 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Christi Barth
59 books778 followersUSA TODAY bestselling author Christi Barth earned a Masters degree in vocal performance and embarked upon a career on the stage. A love of romance then drew her to wedding planning. Ultimately she succumbed to her lifelong love of books and now writes award-winning contemporary romance, including the Naked Men and Aisle Bound series.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
Christi can always be found either whipping up gourmet meals (for fun, honest!) or with her nose in a book. She lives in Maryland with the best husband in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
April 27, 2023
The (ex) Spy Who (Maybe) Loved Me is a standalone rom-com written by Christi Barth.
Tropes:
✔️ small-town
✔️ one-night-stand to more
✔️ woman in STEM
✔️ workplace romance
When Blake and Wyatt are trapped in an airport due to fog, they decide to pass the time trading surface level info about one another and then decide to act on their attraction for a night of no strings sex.
Little did they suspect they’d not only see each other the next day in Blake’s small home town, but they’d be working together. Can they ignore the chemistry between them?
I enjoyed this story, particularly Wyatt’s transition from spy to civilian life as well as Blake’s strong and focused character. They’re a sort of light reversed grumpy-sunshine where she’s stoic while Wyatt teaches her how to balance work and fun.
★ I received an ARC of this title from the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title.
★See all my book edits on Instagram
Tropes:
✔️ small-town
✔️ one-night-stand to more
✔️ woman in STEM
✔️ workplace romance
When Blake and Wyatt are trapped in an airport due to fog, they decide to pass the time trading surface level info about one another and then decide to act on their attraction for a night of no strings sex.
Little did they suspect they’d not only see each other the next day in Blake’s small home town, but they’d be working together. Can they ignore the chemistry between them?
I enjoyed this story, particularly Wyatt’s transition from spy to civilian life as well as Blake’s strong and focused character. They’re a sort of light reversed grumpy-sunshine where she’s stoic while Wyatt teaches her how to balance work and fun.
★ I received an ARC of this title from the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title.
★See all my book edits on Instagram
June 7, 2023
Dnf @ 10%/ 2 chapters
The writing is alright, but the dialogue feels awkward at times. But the sex omg the sex scene gives us this gem:
Tightening her crossed ankles shifted the angle just enough to bring her close to completion. That—and the scratch of the hair of his balls (was there anything more masculine) against her ass. Couldn’t get that sensation from a vibrator!
If this was satire or had given me any previous indication this was supposed to be a comedy, maybe I’d roll with it buuuuut I’m out fam.
The writing is alright, but the dialogue feels awkward at times. But the sex omg the sex scene gives us this gem:
Tightening her crossed ankles shifted the angle just enough to bring her close to completion. That—and the scratch of the hair of his balls (was there anything more masculine) against her ass. Couldn’t get that sensation from a vibrator!
If this was satire or had given me any previous indication this was supposed to be a comedy, maybe I’d roll with it buuuuut I’m out fam.
March 29, 2023
3.75🌟.
My second book from this author, it started with a bang. I loved all the ex spy hero angle who was released from active duty and now had to adapt to normal life.
Wyatt keene was such a vibrant character. The way his past life was referenced in his present day was hilarious and done well. Also the way he searches danger in even mundane things was so interesting.
Brilliant scientist Blake Montgomery was a stickler for rules, cranky, stubborn and a workaholic. When these two collide unexpectedly sparks fly.
What I liked was Wyatt and Blake complimented each other perfectly. There was humour in the story, friendship, small town coziness and science.
The middle part of the book dragged a bit for me and I did get irritated with some of Blake’s attitude even though I understand what caused it.
And some of the conversations in the book went right over my head. Don’t know why, but I couldn’t connect with dialogues.
Overall and entertaining romance.
I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
My second book from this author, it started with a bang. I loved all the ex spy hero angle who was released from active duty and now had to adapt to normal life.
Wyatt keene was such a vibrant character. The way his past life was referenced in his present day was hilarious and done well. Also the way he searches danger in even mundane things was so interesting.
Brilliant scientist Blake Montgomery was a stickler for rules, cranky, stubborn and a workaholic. When these two collide unexpectedly sparks fly.
What I liked was Wyatt and Blake complimented each other perfectly. There was humour in the story, friendship, small town coziness and science.
The middle part of the book dragged a bit for me and I did get irritated with some of Blake’s attitude even though I understand what caused it.
And some of the conversations in the book went right over my head. Don’t know why, but I couldn’t connect with dialogues.
Overall and entertaining romance.
I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
March 11, 2023
Eeek! Of course, I loved this book! The characters profiles have been my forever dreamworld fantasy match.
Hunky artistic spy meets beautiful brainiac scientist…need I say more?!?!
My heart soared in delight as they both were able to open themselves up to each other and see themselves in a greater sense.
I love it when the universe turns one night flings into happily ever afters!
Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Hunky artistic spy meets beautiful brainiac scientist…need I say more?!?!
My heart soared in delight as they both were able to open themselves up to each other and see themselves in a greater sense.
I love it when the universe turns one night flings into happily ever afters!
Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
March 17, 2023
This starts off with delightful fun. Wyatt Keene has just finished working for an unknown government spy agency where he got to save the world multiple times. Blake Montgomery is a brilliant PHd scientist working on working on a cure for blindness at the famous Cygnet Labs in the small town of Swan Cove, Maine. When flights are cancelled at the Portland airport the two meet up in a bar and agree to a wildly successful one night fling.
Not 24 hours later the two are unexpectedly thrown together. Turns out that Wyatt is also an aspiring artist. His late aunt entered him in an art competition and he is a finalist. The competition is sponsored by Cygnet Labs and wants a scientist and artist to collaborate in creating a new work of art. Their hook up was supposed to be anonymous and Blake isn’t thrilled to see Wyatt again. She also isn’t happy that the competition is going to take time from her work.
Of course the two get to know each other better but not intimately (for a while). Sadly the middle part of the book really slows down. There is posturing of my STEM brain doesn’t have time for a relationship which leads to an occasional kiss. And although he is there to do his artist thing it isn’t actually mentioned again until almost 2/3 the way through the book. She has issues with lying because of an ex. Which I thought would lead to something big with his past but ends up being a small hick-up. Scenes felt like they were building up to something such as a big party, an interview or even stopping some espionage but then the story skips ahead and you don’t see the action. What is the point of having a ex-spy save the day if you don’t get details.
This is a stand alone book but is a sequel to Hottie on Her Shelf which I’ve read. Blakes brother Fitz and librarian and town mayor Hallie, the MCs in Hottie make appearances in this book. I like being back in Swan Cove and felt a little more informed about Blake’s family having read the other book. This book light and fun reading but after starting so strongly it turns into an average romance. Last note the page count for the book is 307 and is incorrectly listed at 150 on Goodreads. Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC in exchange for a voluntary review. (3.5 Stars)
Not 24 hours later the two are unexpectedly thrown together. Turns out that Wyatt is also an aspiring artist. His late aunt entered him in an art competition and he is a finalist. The competition is sponsored by Cygnet Labs and wants a scientist and artist to collaborate in creating a new work of art. Their hook up was supposed to be anonymous and Blake isn’t thrilled to see Wyatt again. She also isn’t happy that the competition is going to take time from her work.
Of course the two get to know each other better but not intimately (for a while). Sadly the middle part of the book really slows down. There is posturing of my STEM brain doesn’t have time for a relationship which leads to an occasional kiss. And although he is there to do his artist thing it isn’t actually mentioned again until almost 2/3 the way through the book. She has issues with lying because of an ex. Which I thought would lead to something big with his past but ends up being a small hick-up. Scenes felt like they were building up to something such as a big party, an interview or even stopping some espionage but then the story skips ahead and you don’t see the action. What is the point of having a ex-spy save the day if you don’t get details.
This is a stand alone book but is a sequel to Hottie on Her Shelf which I’ve read. Blakes brother Fitz and librarian and town mayor Hallie, the MCs in Hottie make appearances in this book. I like being back in Swan Cove and felt a little more informed about Blake’s family having read the other book. This book light and fun reading but after starting so strongly it turns into an average romance. Last note the page count for the book is 307 and is incorrectly listed at 150 on Goodreads. Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC in exchange for a voluntary review. (3.5 Stars)
March 24, 2023
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you NetGalley.
It was definitely easy to stay engaged.
Our main characters are Blake and Wyatt. The banter between them was fabulous.
The character development was great.
There's a mix of romance and humor, which is always nice. There is some spice, but not a ton overall.
worth the read.
It was definitely easy to stay engaged.
Our main characters are Blake and Wyatt. The banter between them was fabulous.
The character development was great.
There's a mix of romance and humor, which is always nice. There is some spice, but not a ton overall.
worth the read.
May 1, 2023
Thanks NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book was a pleasant surprise and my first one by the author, I'm definitely checking out her previous works. I've been reading a lot, so it's safe to say that I found the plot of this book pretty original.
Wyatt was starting his new life after he had to, involuntarily, left his job as a spy. Stuck at the airport due to the weather, he meets Blake and what was supposed to be a hot one-night stand between two strangers gets messy when the next day not only they are in the same town but also they find themselves paired up for a contest in the lab where Dr. Blake works for.
Wanted to know more about Blake beyond being a scientist. I was under the impression I didn't get to know her enough. But I did love her scientist side, though, because I can relate to her. Albeit she was a little too much stereotyped bordering on annoying. It was cute how Wyatt got to dig into the woman underneath Blake, PhD. Although we didn't get to know more of her through her lens. I wanted to see more of that carefree Blake from the first chapters. Anyway, both characters were in their mid to late-thirties, so kudos for that.
The book was slow-paced throughout the story – not my personal favorite, but as long as it's cohesive, I can take it – until the very end, when it got rushed. I think I would have enjoyed the conflict resolution a lot more if it had been kept at the same pace.
Overall, it was a really enjoyable, cute, and low-angst reading.
This book was a pleasant surprise and my first one by the author, I'm definitely checking out her previous works. I've been reading a lot, so it's safe to say that I found the plot of this book pretty original.
Wyatt was starting his new life after he had to, involuntarily, left his job as a spy. Stuck at the airport due to the weather, he meets Blake and what was supposed to be a hot one-night stand between two strangers gets messy when the next day not only they are in the same town but also they find themselves paired up for a contest in the lab where Dr. Blake works for.
Wanted to know more about Blake beyond being a scientist. I was under the impression I didn't get to know her enough. But I did love her scientist side, though, because I can relate to her. Albeit she was a little too much stereotyped bordering on annoying. It was cute how Wyatt got to dig into the woman underneath Blake, PhD. Although we didn't get to know more of her through her lens. I wanted to see more of that carefree Blake from the first chapters. Anyway, both characters were in their mid to late-thirties, so kudos for that.
The book was slow-paced throughout the story – not my personal favorite, but as long as it's cohesive, I can take it – until the very end, when it got rushed. I think I would have enjoyed the conflict resolution a lot more if it had been kept at the same pace.
Overall, it was a really enjoyable, cute, and low-angst reading.
April 1, 2023
Quick Summary: A chivalry is not dead spicy romance
My Review: The (ex) Spy Who (maybe) Loved Me by Christi Barth was quite entertaining. I loved it!
About the Book: What started out as a one night stand between strangers ended up as something way more special.
This story grabbed my attention from the beginning. The playful banter between scientist Blake Montgomery and agent Wyatt Keene was tops. From their initial conversation to their hot coupling to their unplanned reunion to the undesirable challenges they dealt with, they had something together. I especially appreciated how they both had such strength of character and evidence of integrity. They were fiercely passionate about what mattered to them, not to mention, their chemistry was fantastic. In truth, the bantering between the two characters was so well done. It was written in such a way that it revved up their engines, so to speak.
About My Favorites:
One of my favorite scenes in this story happened early on in the book. It endeared me to Wyatt and made me love Blake even more. It involved the takedown of Rob and the subsequent sexy tension that built between Blake and Wyatt. Ms. Barth wrote the scene so well and on point that I felt it down to my toes, thank you very much! After that particular confrontation, I was sure Blake would throw caution to the wind and jump Wyatt right there.
Adding to the whole Rob thing, I loved how Blake chose to ultimately handle him. (Right on!)
Another favorite of mine was when Wyatt recounted the situation concerning his parents. That was rather emotional and sadly so real. It was a gut punch to my heart. It makes me tearful even now. I loved how Blake supported him and just plain loved up on him. That said so much and revealed the true direction they were headed in.
Lastly, the sketching and art were such pivotal moments in the story. Not only was there a raw vulnerability that was displayed, but there was also trust. That made things so loud and clear...even though there were matters that still needed to be addressed.
My Favorite Quote: "You’ve got this outer uniform of scientist, and underneath is all the softness and passion. This is exactly how I’ll always remember you."
My Final Say: This was a hidden treasure read. I highly recommend it. Readers who enjoy STEAM stories with a bit of a heat factor will love this one. I certainly did. (I love brainiac romances.) This is worth the read.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: 💎
Thank you to the author and to Entangled Publishing, who provided access to a digital ARC via NetGalley. The thoughts and opinions I have shared are my own.
My Review: The (ex) Spy Who (maybe) Loved Me by Christi Barth was quite entertaining. I loved it!
About the Book: What started out as a one night stand between strangers ended up as something way more special.
This story grabbed my attention from the beginning. The playful banter between scientist Blake Montgomery and agent Wyatt Keene was tops. From their initial conversation to their hot coupling to their unplanned reunion to the undesirable challenges they dealt with, they had something together. I especially appreciated how they both had such strength of character and evidence of integrity. They were fiercely passionate about what mattered to them, not to mention, their chemistry was fantastic. In truth, the bantering between the two characters was so well done. It was written in such a way that it revved up their engines, so to speak.
About My Favorites:
One of my favorite scenes in this story happened early on in the book. It endeared me to Wyatt and made me love Blake even more. It involved the takedown of Rob and the subsequent sexy tension that built between Blake and Wyatt. Ms. Barth wrote the scene so well and on point that I felt it down to my toes, thank you very much! After that particular confrontation, I was sure Blake would throw caution to the wind and jump Wyatt right there.
Adding to the whole Rob thing, I loved how Blake chose to ultimately handle him. (Right on!)
Another favorite of mine was when Wyatt recounted the situation concerning his parents. That was rather emotional and sadly so real. It was a gut punch to my heart. It makes me tearful even now. I loved how Blake supported him and just plain loved up on him. That said so much and revealed the true direction they were headed in.
Lastly, the sketching and art were such pivotal moments in the story. Not only was there a raw vulnerability that was displayed, but there was also trust. That made things so loud and clear...even though there were matters that still needed to be addressed.
My Favorite Quote: "You’ve got this outer uniform of scientist, and underneath is all the softness and passion. This is exactly how I’ll always remember you."
My Final Say: This was a hidden treasure read. I highly recommend it. Readers who enjoy STEAM stories with a bit of a heat factor will love this one. I certainly did. (I love brainiac romances.) This is worth the read.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: 💎
Thank you to the author and to Entangled Publishing, who provided access to a digital ARC via NetGalley. The thoughts and opinions I have shared are my own.
March 15, 2023
Blake Montgomery is an intelligent and successful scientist living in a small town in Maine called Swan Cove. When she visits NYC, she decides to through caution to the wind and have a one night stand with the charming and handsome Wyatt Keene. Wyatt is trying to reacclimatize to civilian live after being a black ops special agent. Except suddenly Blake and Wyatt aren’t just forced to live in the same small town, but share the same office. Things get pretty interesting for the pair when the chemistry and sexual tension are page scorching.
I enjoyed this fun romance read. I always love reading about a FMC who works in STEM! Blake is smart and sexy, and Wyatt trying to learn who he is without his job was entertaining.
Read if you enjoy:
Forced Proximity
One night stand to friends to lovers
Banter
Small Town Romance
Protective MMC
FMC working in STEM
Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this fun romance read. I always love reading about a FMC who works in STEM! Blake is smart and sexy, and Wyatt trying to learn who he is without his job was entertaining.
Read if you enjoy:
Forced Proximity
One night stand to friends to lovers
Banter
Small Town Romance
Protective MMC
FMC working in STEM
Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2025
audiobook!
i really wanted to like this but overall, the sex scenes were awkward, the relationship was confusing and not engaging with no chemistry, the whole “spy” element felt like the background. i just really hated this 😭
i really wanted to like this but overall, the sex scenes were awkward, the relationship was confusing and not engaging with no chemistry, the whole “spy” element felt like the background. i just really hated this 😭
May 9, 2023
This was a really fun read. I've never come across a book with this kind of ex-spy plotline so I was pleasantly surprised. I'll have to read book 1 now.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for providing an eARC for a honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for providing an eARC for a honest review.
March 20, 2023
LOVED this book! I loved Wyatt, the somewhat tortured, somewhat ex, spy. His story is interesting and I loved how he intersected with Blake. Blake is a scientist working in a a secretive lab, always worried about portraying the "right" image and representing her family well.
When they are thrust together, sparks erupt and they can barely stand to be in the same room together....until they can. I loved the push/pull of their relationship and how they interacted. Their relationship was engaging and fun. Even better, I loved how the characters are thoughtful and intelligent - especially such a strong female of intelligence. I even enjoyed the complication of national security percolating in the background and woven throughout their story.
This story is a winner that fans of the genre will love. The author is on my must read authors' list.
When they are thrust together, sparks erupt and they can barely stand to be in the same room together....until they can. I loved the push/pull of their relationship and how they interacted. Their relationship was engaging and fun. Even better, I loved how the characters are thoughtful and intelligent - especially such a strong female of intelligence. I even enjoyed the complication of national security percolating in the background and woven throughout their story.
This story is a winner that fans of the genre will love. The author is on my must read authors' list.
January 3, 2024
This book was good, Christi Barth’s work always hits. But there was one point where the MMC mentioned knowing the name of the agent who assassinated Kim Jong Un and I gotta know: was this an error or does this book take place in a parallel universe where everything is exactly the same except the US government assassinated Kim Jong Un??
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
July 26, 2023
3.5 stars (rounded up)!
"The (Ex) Spy Who (Maybe) Loved Me" is the second book in Christi Barth's Swan Cove series following "Hottie on Her Shelf." While this book isn't quite as successful as the first installment, I still really liked this book! I looooved the premise where main characters Wyatt (a former spy trying to transition into civilian life) and Blake (a Ph.D. scientist) have a mind-blowingly good one-night stand, but quickly realize the next day that they have been paired up in a forced proximity work situation in Swan Cove, Maine, which just so happens to be Blake's small hometown where everyone knows her and her legacy-family. I hate how people automatically call Blake "grumpy" when she's a strong person with a driven, work-oriented personality. God forbid women should be allowed to focus on their careers! Eventually, she realizes, that not everything should be sacrificed for her profession. She struggles to find the balance and struggled to open up to being herself and choosing herself first, while Wyatt needs to find a way to express himself since he has lived a life where secrecy has always been demanded due to his former profession. Wyatt and Blake have interesting, diametrically opposing personalities, which leads to a lot of funny banter and zany situations involving things like parkour (which made me laugh out loud). Their chemistry is very believable and grand! I found myself rooting for them to work out their differences so they could be a full-fledged couple by the book's end. The spicy scenes between them are also well-written. Barth also does an excellent job making us haaaaaaaaaaaate the people involved in Blake's job, including her boss and her scummy ex-boyfriend. I like the small-town vibe of Swan Cove and cannot wait for a third entry in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, LLC, Entangled: Amara, and Christi Barth for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"The (Ex) Spy Who (Maybe) Loved Me" is the second book in Christi Barth's Swan Cove series following "Hottie on Her Shelf." While this book isn't quite as successful as the first installment, I still really liked this book! I looooved the premise where main characters Wyatt (a former spy trying to transition into civilian life) and Blake (a Ph.D. scientist) have a mind-blowingly good one-night stand, but quickly realize the next day that they have been paired up in a forced proximity work situation in Swan Cove, Maine, which just so happens to be Blake's small hometown where everyone knows her and her legacy-family. I hate how people automatically call Blake "grumpy" when she's a strong person with a driven, work-oriented personality. God forbid women should be allowed to focus on their careers! Eventually, she realizes, that not everything should be sacrificed for her profession. She struggles to find the balance and struggled to open up to being herself and choosing herself first, while Wyatt needs to find a way to express himself since he has lived a life where secrecy has always been demanded due to his former profession. Wyatt and Blake have interesting, diametrically opposing personalities, which leads to a lot of funny banter and zany situations involving things like parkour (which made me laugh out loud). Their chemistry is very believable and grand! I found myself rooting for them to work out their differences so they could be a full-fledged couple by the book's end. The spicy scenes between them are also well-written. Barth also does an excellent job making us haaaaaaaaaaaate the people involved in Blake's job, including her boss and her scummy ex-boyfriend. I like the small-town vibe of Swan Cove and cannot wait for a third entry in this series!
Thank you to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, LLC, Entangled: Amara, and Christi Barth for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
March 5, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was a delight! Small-town spicy romance with a dash of espionage and two main characters who follow a chance one night stand-to-work colleagues-to-lovers path. What more could you want?
Things I loved: Wyatt’s road to self-discovery after so many years of being forced to live as anyone but himself, the way the book contained both a spicy one night stand and a subsequent slow burn to a relationship, and the amount of affirming conversations about badass women in STEM.
However, there were a few things I didn’t love. First, Wyatt’s role as an artist was always kind of opaque. Even though it was his whole reason for sticking around in Swan Cove, not to mention his future career plan, Wyatt never seemed to be actually making art until probably 2/3 of the way through the story. Second, it felt like there was often build-up to an event - most notable that come to mind are Wyatt’s Halloween party operation and the Gazette interview - but then the story skipped ahead a day or two without showing what actually happened during those events. It was a bit jarring. Finally, I didn’t love the whole blow-up when Blake learned the truth. Without getting into spoilers, of course it would be difficult/strange for her to find out the truth, but I think her reaction was over the top - especially since Wyatt’s reason for lying was very solid. Thankfully the angsty break-up phase was short-lived.
In spite of my complaints, I still enjoyed this book a ton, and I definitely recommend it to my romance-loving friends!
This was a delight! Small-town spicy romance with a dash of espionage and two main characters who follow a chance one night stand-to-work colleagues-to-lovers path. What more could you want?
Things I loved: Wyatt’s road to self-discovery after so many years of being forced to live as anyone but himself, the way the book contained both a spicy one night stand and a subsequent slow burn to a relationship, and the amount of affirming conversations about badass women in STEM.
However, there were a few things I didn’t love. First, Wyatt’s role as an artist was always kind of opaque. Even though it was his whole reason for sticking around in Swan Cove, not to mention his future career plan, Wyatt never seemed to be actually making art until probably 2/3 of the way through the story. Second, it felt like there was often build-up to an event - most notable that come to mind are Wyatt’s Halloween party operation and the Gazette interview - but then the story skipped ahead a day or two without showing what actually happened during those events. It was a bit jarring. Finally, I didn’t love the whole blow-up when Blake learned the truth. Without getting into spoilers, of course it would be difficult/strange for her to find out the truth, but I think her reaction was over the top - especially since Wyatt’s reason for lying was very solid. Thankfully the angsty break-up phase was short-lived.
In spite of my complaints, I still enjoyed this book a ton, and I definitely recommend it to my romance-loving friends!
March 2, 2023
Thank you so so much to the author and the publisher, Entangled Publishing Amara, for sharing an ARC of this book with me on NetGalley!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
"You can't move forward when you're looking behind you."
I’m a fan of this author. That in itself is the reason why, when I started reading the book, I thought I would have loved it. Turned out I was right !!! This book was so good!!!
I had already read “Hottie on Her Shelf” which is a sort of book one in the same series because it evolves around Fitz and Hallie and Fitz is Blake’s brother but these books can be read separately.
This time I had so much fun too !!!! Blake and Wyatt’s story was so good to read !!!
Consider an ex-spy and a scientist, forced to work together but with an incredible chemistry and tension that will be impossible to deny!!
From strangers to one-night-stands to enemies to friends to lovers and even a forced proximity trope in a small town !!!!
I loved this book a lot !!! I guess I can say that there’s even a bit of the grumpy sunshine … but in reverse !!!! She is such a scientist with her rules and her reason and he is trying to completely change his life thanks to retirement from his job as a spy and he is so funny !!!
I had a great time reading this book and I literally can’t wait for another one to come !!!
"Screw whoever put that in your brain.
You're the only one who knows what makes you happy. Life can be cut short before you know it. Wouldn't you rather do what you love than do what's expected?"
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
"You can't move forward when you're looking behind you."
I’m a fan of this author. That in itself is the reason why, when I started reading the book, I thought I would have loved it. Turned out I was right !!! This book was so good!!!
I had already read “Hottie on Her Shelf” which is a sort of book one in the same series because it evolves around Fitz and Hallie and Fitz is Blake’s brother but these books can be read separately.
This time I had so much fun too !!!! Blake and Wyatt’s story was so good to read !!!
Consider an ex-spy and a scientist, forced to work together but with an incredible chemistry and tension that will be impossible to deny!!
From strangers to one-night-stands to enemies to friends to lovers and even a forced proximity trope in a small town !!!!
I loved this book a lot !!! I guess I can say that there’s even a bit of the grumpy sunshine … but in reverse !!!! She is such a scientist with her rules and her reason and he is trying to completely change his life thanks to retirement from his job as a spy and he is so funny !!!
I had a great time reading this book and I literally can’t wait for another one to come !!!
"Screw whoever put that in your brain.
You're the only one who knows what makes you happy. Life can be cut short before you know it. Wouldn't you rather do what you love than do what's expected?"
March 5, 2023
Wyatt was a spy until his identity was sold as part of a list. He was forced out of his job and has moved to a remote part of Maine where his aunt used to live. Blake Montgomery's family founded the town, and she is working to establish her reputation as a top scientist separate from their influence. Wyatt and Blake have a one night stand before being paired together in a competition to combine science and art.
I found this book quite surprising. From the title, cover, and description, I expected a rom-com mixed with romantic suspense. Instead, there was less action than I expected. Indeed, the book was quite introspective. Much of it focused on character development. There was a lot on how difficult it is for spies to transition back to civilian life with many concerns about mental health and stability. Blake similarly had a lot of adapting in terms of her relationship with her family and her career goals.
As I read, it became clear that this was a sequel to Hottie on Her Shelf, the story of Blake's brother. I wish I had known to read that first, and this included some spoilers for that book. That said, this book can stand alone.
I did come to quite enjoy it despite it being so different than what I had thought I would be reading. I recommend it for those interested in a romantic drama. There's great steam, a wonderful small town, and very interesting secondary characters.
Thank you to Entangled and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. These opinions are my own.
I found this book quite surprising. From the title, cover, and description, I expected a rom-com mixed with romantic suspense. Instead, there was less action than I expected. Indeed, the book was quite introspective. Much of it focused on character development. There was a lot on how difficult it is for spies to transition back to civilian life with many concerns about mental health and stability. Blake similarly had a lot of adapting in terms of her relationship with her family and her career goals.
As I read, it became clear that this was a sequel to Hottie on Her Shelf, the story of Blake's brother. I wish I had known to read that first, and this included some spoilers for that book. That said, this book can stand alone.
I did come to quite enjoy it despite it being so different than what I had thought I would be reading. I recommend it for those interested in a romantic drama. There's great steam, a wonderful small town, and very interesting secondary characters.
Thank you to Entangled and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. These opinions are my own.
March 5, 2023
3.5/5 stars - The (ex) Spy Who (maybe) Loved Me is a small town, one night stand to coworkers to lovers novel. Added bonus is this is a woman in STEM book!
Blake and Wyatt meet at an airport bar when their flights are grounded due to fog. They end up having a one night stand, but know there can be nothing more. Wyatt is returning to the states after being a spy for many years and Blake is a scientist who does not have time for a relationship. They did not expect to be in the same town, let alone paired up in a scientist/artist contest that Blake's company is holding. What the two didn't count on was the amazing chemistry they have. Will they be able to put their histories to the side to recognize the love right in front of them?
This was a quick and easy read. Blake and Wyatt were enjoyable characters, but I found a lot of their personalities lacking depth. I did enjoy seeing Wyatt's return to civilian life and how his brain just could not turn off his spy tendencies. I did have a problem with how back and forth Blake and Wyatt's relationship seemed after the one night stand. Blake kiss Wyatt and then pull back because she couldn't have a relationship or Wyatt would take her on a "date" but then pull back. I think this was meant to add to the tension, but it just left me frustrated at times.
I enjoyed the book overall and felt that it was a cute, quick read. Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
Blake and Wyatt meet at an airport bar when their flights are grounded due to fog. They end up having a one night stand, but know there can be nothing more. Wyatt is returning to the states after being a spy for many years and Blake is a scientist who does not have time for a relationship. They did not expect to be in the same town, let alone paired up in a scientist/artist contest that Blake's company is holding. What the two didn't count on was the amazing chemistry they have. Will they be able to put their histories to the side to recognize the love right in front of them?
This was a quick and easy read. Blake and Wyatt were enjoyable characters, but I found a lot of their personalities lacking depth. I did enjoy seeing Wyatt's return to civilian life and how his brain just could not turn off his spy tendencies. I did have a problem with how back and forth Blake and Wyatt's relationship seemed after the one night stand. Blake kiss Wyatt and then pull back because she couldn't have a relationship or Wyatt would take her on a "date" but then pull back. I think this was meant to add to the tension, but it just left me frustrated at times.
I enjoyed the book overall and felt that it was a cute, quick read. Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.
March 24, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and Entangled Publishing for an e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
This was such a fun and quick read. Blake is a scientist who is one of the top researchers at Cygnet Labs. Wyatt is now a forced into retirement spy who is trying to figure out how to get back to ‘normal’ life after being undercover and on guard for so many years.
Now while these two sound like they won’t make the best match they somehow do. They bring out the best in each other. Blake starts learning what she really wants to do and it just might not be what was always expected of her. While Wyatt is trying to find the delicate balance of letting people in, while also trying to keep his past a secret and those around him safe from any potential threat.
Now that all sounds serious, but I can assure you that these two together and the banter and sweet moments they shared made up for all the seriousness that was going on behind the scenes.
.
If you're wanting a quick and fun romantic read with a side of spy mystery then this is the book for you.
.
I also just found out that this is a companion novel to Hottie on Her Shelf which tells the story of Hallie and Fitz. I cannot wait to read that one!
This was such a fun and quick read. Blake is a scientist who is one of the top researchers at Cygnet Labs. Wyatt is now a forced into retirement spy who is trying to figure out how to get back to ‘normal’ life after being undercover and on guard for so many years.
Now while these two sound like they won’t make the best match they somehow do. They bring out the best in each other. Blake starts learning what she really wants to do and it just might not be what was always expected of her. While Wyatt is trying to find the delicate balance of letting people in, while also trying to keep his past a secret and those around him safe from any potential threat.
Now that all sounds serious, but I can assure you that these two together and the banter and sweet moments they shared made up for all the seriousness that was going on behind the scenes.
.
If you're wanting a quick and fun romantic read with a side of spy mystery then this is the book for you.
.
I also just found out that this is a companion novel to Hottie on Her Shelf which tells the story of Hallie and Fitz. I cannot wait to read that one!
March 15, 2023
I love this author, and she seems to have done her research for this book. Unfortunately, somewhere in the middle, she lost her style, and things got boring.
Her depiction of scientists was extremely off-putting. They aren't all socially stunted, and they don't speak like automatons. I'm married to one so I can personally attest to this. And highly intelligent people aren't weird.
I loved Wyatt, but I was frankly sad that he was linked to such a disagreeable woman. Blake is about as lovable as a snake. (Sorry, snake lovers).
I'm not sure if I would have finished the book if I had not agreed to leave a review. But I did enjoy a few things, and I kept going.
I wanted to scream when Craig mentioned the sunset over the ocean. Huh?? The sun sets in the west, but he was talking about Maine, so...????
The book jumps around too much, so it doesn't flow well. And I recognize that it's my problem only, but naming her Blake was a bad choice. I kept mixing her up with Wyatt because she has a man's name. Yes, I have heard of Blake Lively. It just struck me in a bad way throughout the book.
Her depiction of scientists was extremely off-putting. They aren't all socially stunted, and they don't speak like automatons. I'm married to one so I can personally attest to this. And highly intelligent people aren't weird.
I loved Wyatt, but I was frankly sad that he was linked to such a disagreeable woman. Blake is about as lovable as a snake. (Sorry, snake lovers).
I'm not sure if I would have finished the book if I had not agreed to leave a review. But I did enjoy a few things, and I kept going.
I wanted to scream when Craig mentioned the sunset over the ocean. Huh?? The sun sets in the west, but he was talking about Maine, so...????
The book jumps around too much, so it doesn't flow well. And I recognize that it's my problem only, but naming her Blake was a bad choice. I kept mixing her up with Wyatt because she has a man's name. Yes, I have heard of Blake Lively. It just struck me in a bad way throughout the book.
March 22, 2023
This romcom was witty and full of banter. Add some spice in and it was a mix for a good novel. As far as a forced proximity romance goes, the awkward moments were minimal. Just an attraction that neither main character could outrun, no matter how much they wanted to. Add in the whole “opposites attract” plot line and there are sparks in more way than one.
Blake is from a small town and spent the weekend in NYC enjoying herself. She can’t let her hair down in her town where her family is practically royalty and she is working hard to be taken seriously as a scientist at one of the leading companies in the country. So when her flight cancels, she makes the most of it… with the cute guy that was waiting for that same flight that she had never seen before. A no strings attached, one night stand. Until she sees him in her small town the next day…
Thanks to NetGalley for the copy to review!
Blake is from a small town and spent the weekend in NYC enjoying herself. She can’t let her hair down in her town where her family is practically royalty and she is working hard to be taken seriously as a scientist at one of the leading companies in the country. So when her flight cancels, she makes the most of it… with the cute guy that was waiting for that same flight that she had never seen before. A no strings attached, one night stand. Until she sees him in her small town the next day…
Thanks to NetGalley for the copy to review!
March 14, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3.5/5 stars!! This was a fun story about a spy forced into retirement trying to acclimate to normal life and a scientist finding self-confidence. Wyatt and Blake are thrown together in an art contest held by the lab Blake works in an effort to marry science and art. Wyatt and Blake were such a fun opposites-attract couple and I really enjoyed seeing them grow from a one-night stand to enemies to friends to lovers. I really liked the main characters as well as the secondary characters, especially Everett, he was a really great first friend for Wyatt and had a great sense of humor. I really enjoyed how Wyatt was consistently supporting Blake throughout the book even when they were still nothing more than strangers. As much as I enjoyed reading their love story, I do wish there was more suspense involved especially considering Wyatt's former job. All in all, I loved the humor, the intelligence of the FMC, and the found family and friends within a small town.
Thank you again to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC!
3.5/5 stars!! This was a fun story about a spy forced into retirement trying to acclimate to normal life and a scientist finding self-confidence. Wyatt and Blake are thrown together in an art contest held by the lab Blake works in an effort to marry science and art. Wyatt and Blake were such a fun opposites-attract couple and I really enjoyed seeing them grow from a one-night stand to enemies to friends to lovers. I really liked the main characters as well as the secondary characters, especially Everett, he was a really great first friend for Wyatt and had a great sense of humor. I really enjoyed how Wyatt was consistently supporting Blake throughout the book even when they were still nothing more than strangers. As much as I enjoyed reading their love story, I do wish there was more suspense involved especially considering Wyatt's former job. All in all, I loved the humor, the intelligence of the FMC, and the found family and friends within a small town.
Thank you again to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC!
February 25, 2023
Wyatt is leaving his life as a spy behind him. Kind of. Blake just wants to work in her lab and not have any distractions. Then they are partnered up in an “art meets science” competition and things get complicated for both of them.
Great romcom. Second in the series, but not necessary to read the first book before diving into this one. Love all the secondary characters… supportive friends who I imagine will be the main characters in future books!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for The (Ex) Spy Who (Maybe) Loved Me to come out March 20, 2023!
Great romcom. Second in the series, but not necessary to read the first book before diving into this one. Love all the secondary characters… supportive friends who I imagine will be the main characters in future books!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. Watch for The (Ex) Spy Who (Maybe) Loved Me to come out March 20, 2023!
March 15, 2023
A one night stand after been stranded in an airport with an interesting strange. Meeting say stranger the following day in her lab as her new partner in an art-science project. Can Blake’s life get more complicated? Add an irresistible attraction, an absolute reject for liars and a big and dangerous secret to the mix and Blake and Wyatt’s story is recipe for disaster. A funny, steamy and powerful love and life story.
August 14, 2025
it took everything in me to finish this, it's one of those books that women in their mid 40s would buy at a kiosk or an airport shop while going to a seaside vacation - which is what I anticipated, but it still disappointed me a bit. Of course, one doesn't read these books because of the mid writing or the plotline (or at least I do not) but because it was easily digestible, however i still needed fibers to digest it. First couple of chapters were fine, but after that the plot just kept dragging on and on and on.
Also Art-Science competition? I have no idea how, what or why.
Also Art-Science competition? I have no idea how, what or why.
June 10, 2025
I really wanted to like this one, but it just didnt convince me that the main character was a spy (agent or whatever), the chemistry between love interests almost non existant. Also, if you make the main character an ex spy, kinda expect action, at least a little bit, but there was none? Just skipped through that part?
August 22, 2025
DNF at 60% started off with a bang. But fizzled though the middle. It got so that every time I picked this book up I had no idea what was happening.
March 20, 2023
Overall, this wasn’t bad. I went in with an open mind, and I was rewarded with a decent story.
If there was one thing that annoyed/irritated me it’s the FMC constantly falling back on “I’m a scientist, he’s an artist, it’ll never work!” whenever she thinks about the MMC.
I did like seeing Wyatt get his vindication of sorts when his suspicions turned out to be correct about the big science event.
————
Thank you to the publisher and Turn the Page Tours for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
If there was one thing that annoyed/irritated me it’s the FMC constantly falling back on “I’m a scientist, he’s an artist, it’ll never work!” whenever she thinks about the MMC.
I did like seeing Wyatt get his vindication of sorts when his suspicions turned out to be correct about the big science event.
————
Thank you to the publisher and Turn the Page Tours for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
March 17, 2023
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC. I absolutely loved this book. Sexy scientist meets sexy spy. I couldn’t get enough of these two! Literally pictured myself as Blake because I’ve always dreamed of this type of meet up turned friendship turned relationship. I would kill to read this book again for the first time.
January 7, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and to the publishers for access to an ARC in exchanged for my honest review.
The premise of this book was enough to get me interested right away. A beautiful, brilliant scientist (Women in STEM are everything and I will not be accepting any arguments on that) and an artistic recent ex-spy meet by chance in an airport, both decide to act out of their usual comfort zone and have a one night stand when their flights are delayed, and then find themselves stuck working together very closely when they turn up in the same town. The idea of Wyatt's dossier being sold out and that leading to him being pulled from the field adds such an interesting layer to the story and to Wyatt and Blake's relationship as they get to know one another and develop their feelings, and while the thought of an art competition being hosted by a prestigious company like Cygnet Labs did require some suspension of disbelief, it was really fun to watch the battle of science versus art go down between Blake and Wyatt as they both learned to appreciate the other's side of the equation.
The first few chapters dragged for me slightly, but once we were into the story, I found Wyatt and Blake's relationship to be really fun and engaging, and they had me laughing and smiling more than once. I was rooting for them to get to a place where they could be happy and honest with each other, where they could both learn to accept themselves as they are and find their way forward, both professionally on their own and as a couple. I loved both characters' individual plot lines, too, with Wyatt coming to terms with living in his aunt's house now that she's gone and also having lost the career he'd given his life to while also trying to reconnect with his old love of art and Blake's determination to not lose ground in her research or be forced into a management track rather than sticking through with her project where she's happy all while trying to find a way to reconnect with her brother after years of them both working to survive their family's expectations.
All in all, the book wasn't perfect, but I had a lot of fun getting to know these characters and, let's be honest, any book that takes a beautiful blonde woman in STEM and has her dress up as Elle Woods for a costume party has my vote of confidence. <3
The premise of this book was enough to get me interested right away. A beautiful, brilliant scientist (Women in STEM are everything and I will not be accepting any arguments on that) and an artistic recent ex-spy meet by chance in an airport, both decide to act out of their usual comfort zone and have a one night stand when their flights are delayed, and then find themselves stuck working together very closely when they turn up in the same town. The idea of Wyatt's dossier being sold out and that leading to him being pulled from the field adds such an interesting layer to the story and to Wyatt and Blake's relationship as they get to know one another and develop their feelings, and while the thought of an art competition being hosted by a prestigious company like Cygnet Labs did require some suspension of disbelief, it was really fun to watch the battle of science versus art go down between Blake and Wyatt as they both learned to appreciate the other's side of the equation.
The first few chapters dragged for me slightly, but once we were into the story, I found Wyatt and Blake's relationship to be really fun and engaging, and they had me laughing and smiling more than once. I was rooting for them to get to a place where they could be happy and honest with each other, where they could both learn to accept themselves as they are and find their way forward, both professionally on their own and as a couple. I loved both characters' individual plot lines, too, with Wyatt coming to terms with living in his aunt's house now that she's gone and also having lost the career he'd given his life to while also trying to reconnect with his old love of art and Blake's determination to not lose ground in her research or be forced into a management track rather than sticking through with her project where she's happy all while trying to find a way to reconnect with her brother after years of them both working to survive their family's expectations.
All in all, the book wasn't perfect, but I had a lot of fun getting to know these characters and, let's be honest, any book that takes a beautiful blonde woman in STEM and has her dress up as Elle Woods for a costume party has my vote of confidence. <3
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