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Citrus Pines #3
Sweet Surrender
Taylor hates Beau. He's the man she gave her heart to years ago and he shattered it to pieces. The butterfly effect from that one night altered Taylor’s life irrevocably, and she has never forgiven him.
Her new purpose in life? To make Beau's life as difficult as possible by chasing off every date he meets and throwing in some war-level sparring, too.
Beau cannot stand Taylor. She’s the one woman who can crawl under his skin and turn him from Mr. Goody Two Shoes to a raging, testosterone-fuelled beast who just wants to ravage her sassy mouth and put her over his knee. Every bitter word between them is a reminder of their painful past, and the way his body reacts to her drives him crazy.
Still, when Taylor needs help convincing her stalker ex that she’s moved on, Beau can’t resist helping her out and playing the part of her doting boyfriend.
But when old wounds crack open, buried feelings resurface and close quarters crank up the heat, can they keep their walls high or will they realize that giving in is the sweetest surrender…
Triggers: Abortion, abandonment, adoption, stalking, violence and threat of sexual assault.
Her new purpose in life? To make Beau's life as difficult as possible by chasing off every date he meets and throwing in some war-level sparring, too.
Beau cannot stand Taylor. She’s the one woman who can crawl under his skin and turn him from Mr. Goody Two Shoes to a raging, testosterone-fuelled beast who just wants to ravage her sassy mouth and put her over his knee. Every bitter word between them is a reminder of their painful past, and the way his body reacts to her drives him crazy.
Still, when Taylor needs help convincing her stalker ex that she’s moved on, Beau can’t resist helping her out and playing the part of her doting boyfriend.
But when old wounds crack open, buried feelings resurface and close quarters crank up the heat, can they keep their walls high or will they realize that giving in is the sweetest surrender…
Triggers: Abortion, abandonment, adoption, stalking, violence and threat of sexual assault.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 2, 2022
25 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Lila Dawes
8 books171 followersLila is a thirtysomething writer living in Derbyshire, England with her *cough* parents *cough*, elderly tortoiseshell cat and perpetually dying bonsai tree, Benny.
She has been writing since she was a teenager but the penny didn't drop until last year, she's a little slow sometimes...
It’s Only Love is her debut novel and the first in the Citrus Pines series.
Lila is a huge fan of the romance reading and writing community so why not say hello, she can be found on Instagram, Facebook, Goodreads and website: www.liladawesauthor.com
She has been writing since she was a teenager but the penny didn't drop until last year, she's a little slow sometimes...
It’s Only Love is her debut novel and the first in the Citrus Pines series.
Lila is a huge fan of the romance reading and writing community so why not say hello, she can be found on Instagram, Facebook, Goodreads and website: www.liladawesauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 22, 2022
Love is worth the risk.
Sweet Surrender is a standalone in the Citrus Pines series, one where you don’t need to read the first books to know what’s going on. After reading this story, I know I’ll be going back to read the first two!
Taylor and Beau have known each other since they were teenagers. Harboring secret feelings for each other. A misunderstanding tears them apart and fifteen years later are riddled with guilt and spite.
Taylor has an obsessive ex causing issues. After a night that leaves her shaken, she and Beau start to fake date to try and shake him off. That’s a trial in and of itself. But it is also hilarious watching them flounder. When the secrets come out and they flip over that fresh leaf? Ohhh boy does the heat kick up!
Beau learns confidence as Taylor accepts him, no matter his physical insecurities.
Taylor learns that it’s okay to love, no matter how much her father damaged that concept for her.
This is sweet and spicy story, and I was in tears at the end. Well worth the read!
Sweet Surrender is a standalone in the Citrus Pines series, one where you don’t need to read the first books to know what’s going on. After reading this story, I know I’ll be going back to read the first two!
Taylor and Beau have known each other since they were teenagers. Harboring secret feelings for each other. A misunderstanding tears them apart and fifteen years later are riddled with guilt and spite.
Taylor has an obsessive ex causing issues. After a night that leaves her shaken, she and Beau start to fake date to try and shake him off. That’s a trial in and of itself. But it is also hilarious watching them flounder. When the secrets come out and they flip over that fresh leaf? Ohhh boy does the heat kick up!
Beau learns confidence as Taylor accepts him, no matter his physical insecurities.
Taylor learns that it’s okay to love, no matter how much her father damaged that concept for her.
This is sweet and spicy story, and I was in tears at the end. Well worth the read!
September 4, 2022
What can I say— Lila’s third book in the Citrus Pines series is the most perfect gem!
Throughout the series, Taylor and Beau always caught my eye, sitting in then background but sticking out with their witty banter. So, needless to say, I was super excited to read their story. And Lila did not disappoint!
Through a well crafted fake relationship trope, she builds these two flawed but fiercely devoted characters into the hottest couple I’ve seen on page in a long time! With feisty banter, perfect secondary characters and occasional hints of suspense, I was on the edge of my seat through the whole thing and couldn’t wait to turn the page!
I’m not kidding—this is the best book in the series! Do yourself a favour and jump into it today!!!
*I received an ARC from the author but am reviewing voluntarily
Throughout the series, Taylor and Beau always caught my eye, sitting in then background but sticking out with their witty banter. So, needless to say, I was super excited to read their story. And Lila did not disappoint!
Through a well crafted fake relationship trope, she builds these two flawed but fiercely devoted characters into the hottest couple I’ve seen on page in a long time! With feisty banter, perfect secondary characters and occasional hints of suspense, I was on the edge of my seat through the whole thing and couldn’t wait to turn the page!
I’m not kidding—this is the best book in the series! Do yourself a favour and jump into it today!!!
*I received an ARC from the author but am reviewing voluntarily
September 2, 2022
O.M.G. Is all I have to say. Lila Dawes does it again with yet another steamy romance novel.
I have seriously loved Taylor since book one and have been HIGHLY anticipating her story. And lemme tell you, Lila Dawes did NOT disappoint.
This is definitely more of a slow burn compared to other novels written by Dawes but ugh, it was MAGNIFICENT! The anticipation was killing me but oh what sweet relief when Taylor was reunited with her match. And oh, baby, did that match burn bright.
Another must read. Taylor and Beau are my new favorite couple. 😍
I have seriously loved Taylor since book one and have been HIGHLY anticipating her story. And lemme tell you, Lila Dawes did NOT disappoint.
This is definitely more of a slow burn compared to other novels written by Dawes but ugh, it was MAGNIFICENT! The anticipation was killing me but oh what sweet relief when Taylor was reunited with her match. And oh, baby, did that match burn bright.
Another must read. Taylor and Beau are my new favorite couple. 😍
September 4, 2022
After this, I want to go and read all the prior books in the series
Sweet Surrender was so good, I can't believe it's over. Beau and Taylor were perfect together, they fit so well and were so cute. The friends as kids theme really helped showcase the love they had for each other. It also explained why there was so much passion between them, although that passion came in the form of "hate."
Taylor is petty and I love itttt. She's so strong and hurt and afraid, but she feels things so intently! I felt for her the whole book, even if I wanted to shake her sometimes. I think what happened to her when she was so young would've made anyone distrustful, and even resentful, especially since she was only 18. And any MMC with insecurities makes me 🥺, but one's written with respect and relatability makes me love them. The miscommunication trope (if you can even call it that) was pretty minor, Taylor and Beau just needed to clear the air of past hurts. And it was therapeutic for them both.
Seeing situations that are surprisingly common in the real world happen in books is important. Stalking is definitely something that happens way more than it should and a lot of the time it doesn't end so nicely for the woman. The frustration that Taylor was feeling, how terrified she must've been over the course of this torment, all while knowing the police really can't help until something physical happens, was so real my heart hurt. I'm glad she was safe.
The writing was phenomenal! I wanted to read this in one sitting, but, alas, sleep had to get in the way.🙄 The relationships in this book would make anyone sigh in happiness. It's refreshing to see healthy, happy, love-filled relationships (friendship, romantic, family), including the secondary or minor characters.
All I know is I loved this world and it has made me want to go and read the previous books so I don't miss out on anyone in this story. I'm really psyched for the next one.
Sweet Surrender was so good, I can't believe it's over. Beau and Taylor were perfect together, they fit so well and were so cute. The friends as kids theme really helped showcase the love they had for each other. It also explained why there was so much passion between them, although that passion came in the form of "hate."
Taylor is petty and I love itttt. She's so strong and hurt and afraid, but she feels things so intently! I felt for her the whole book, even if I wanted to shake her sometimes. I think what happened to her when she was so young would've made anyone distrustful, and even resentful, especially since she was only 18. And any MMC with insecurities makes me 🥺, but one's written with respect and relatability makes me love them. The miscommunication trope (if you can even call it that) was pretty minor, Taylor and Beau just needed to clear the air of past hurts. And it was therapeutic for them both.
Seeing situations that are surprisingly common in the real world happen in books is important. Stalking is definitely something that happens way more than it should and a lot of the time it doesn't end so nicely for the woman. The frustration that Taylor was feeling, how terrified she must've been over the course of this torment, all while knowing the police really can't help until something physical happens, was so real my heart hurt. I'm glad she was safe.
The writing was phenomenal! I wanted to read this in one sitting, but, alas, sleep had to get in the way.🙄 The relationships in this book would make anyone sigh in happiness. It's refreshing to see healthy, happy, love-filled relationships (friendship, romantic, family), including the secondary or minor characters.
All I know is I loved this world and it has made me want to go and read the previous books so I don't miss out on anyone in this story. I'm really psyched for the next one.
September 3, 2022
I swear if there were more stars to give this book, it would definitely get it. I’ve read every Citrus Pine book, but this by far is THE BEST and MY FAVORITE! First of all, if you have a family - do not read it at night! It begins with the most laugh out loud situations because after all this is Beau and Taylor and Taylor is just the best menace there is. These two were once so close, inseparable. Beau had two best friends: Taylor and her step brother Dean. A misunderstanding as teens fractured their relationship as well as caused some things to happen that had lasting consequences. Now adults and always in each other’s orbit they toss barbs like horse shoes! However, Taylor needs Beau to play her “fake boyfriend” because she’s got a stalker who is getting bolder and bolder. You know what they say about that thin line between love and hate, well the line between these two is so thin it’s transparent and the more time they spend together; their walls crumble more and more. This book is about healing, about friendship and family, and realizing that love can’t be denied.
I loved this book, I’m still hungover thinking about it. Y’all, Beau is a personal trainer that helps teen athletes, arthritic old people, he does self defense, etc. The old ladies that take his yoga class are so thirsty it is HILARIOUS! The Thirsty Bitch Brigade and Ruby, the purple haired diner owner who is a surrogate mom for Taylor had me ON THE FLOOR! I can’t recommend this book enough.
I loved this book, I’m still hungover thinking about it. Y’all, Beau is a personal trainer that helps teen athletes, arthritic old people, he does self defense, etc. The old ladies that take his yoga class are so thirsty it is HILARIOUS! The Thirsty Bitch Brigade and Ruby, the purple haired diner owner who is a surrogate mom for Taylor had me ON THE FLOOR! I can’t recommend this book enough.
September 2, 2022
Laughing at one minute, blushing at the next one and OMG sobbing at the next.
Lila went ABOVE AND BEYOND every single expectation I had for Taylor and Beau!
Review to come! But for now: go get thid book! I BEG YOU!
Lila went ABOVE AND BEYOND every single expectation I had for Taylor and Beau!
Review to come! But for now: go get thid book! I BEG YOU!
September 15, 2022
Sweet Surrender is the incredible new book by the immensely talented Lila Dawes, and it is the third book in the Citrus Pines series.
Firstly, if there was anywhere in the world that I could pack my bags up and go visit, it would be Citrus Pines! Dawes has created an incredible fictional world which enables you to feel a part of the drama and live out her story.
This book focuses on the relationship between pub landlady Taylor and Personal Fitness Trainer Beau. Taylor is one of those book heroines who you will instantly relate to, she doesn’t do commitment due to being burned badly in the past, but she is sassy, outwardly confident and a bad ass woman. Her witty remarks and snarky comebacks made for some real laugh out loud moments, but then her inner thoughts and past traumas bring all kinds of emotions floating to the surface, and make this story very poignant and relevant to todays society regarding the overturning of Roe vs Wade.
Beau a devilishly handsome trainer who has returned to Citrus Pines after a soaring career in L.A, is determined to put down roots and help provide healthy exercise to those who need it. But with Beau comes his own hang ups, and to me, it was refreshing to have a body conscious male. He is charming, and gives as good as he gets with Taylor, but both of their passion, sarcasm and sparks are ignited by an unforgettable moment of the past which had drastic consequences for them both.
This book also has lots of unexpected drama in the form of a creepy stalker; and the lighthearted humour of a group of friends who are all protective of one another. It was gripping, addictive and a real page-turner. When I read a book like this, I can tell the author has put everything into it to make it a beautifully composed enjoyable read.
This book is perfect to be read as a stand-alone or as part of the incredible series it belongs to, and I am excited to see where else Dawes takes these characters. I’d recommend to those who love hotter scale romances, enemies/friends to lovers as a troupe, and for those who love non stop flirty banter.
Five flaming hot sparkly stars with cherries on top!
Firstly, if there was anywhere in the world that I could pack my bags up and go visit, it would be Citrus Pines! Dawes has created an incredible fictional world which enables you to feel a part of the drama and live out her story.
This book focuses on the relationship between pub landlady Taylor and Personal Fitness Trainer Beau. Taylor is one of those book heroines who you will instantly relate to, she doesn’t do commitment due to being burned badly in the past, but she is sassy, outwardly confident and a bad ass woman. Her witty remarks and snarky comebacks made for some real laugh out loud moments, but then her inner thoughts and past traumas bring all kinds of emotions floating to the surface, and make this story very poignant and relevant to todays society regarding the overturning of Roe vs Wade.
Beau a devilishly handsome trainer who has returned to Citrus Pines after a soaring career in L.A, is determined to put down roots and help provide healthy exercise to those who need it. But with Beau comes his own hang ups, and to me, it was refreshing to have a body conscious male. He is charming, and gives as good as he gets with Taylor, but both of their passion, sarcasm and sparks are ignited by an unforgettable moment of the past which had drastic consequences for them both.
This book also has lots of unexpected drama in the form of a creepy stalker; and the lighthearted humour of a group of friends who are all protective of one another. It was gripping, addictive and a real page-turner. When I read a book like this, I can tell the author has put everything into it to make it a beautifully composed enjoyable read.
This book is perfect to be read as a stand-alone or as part of the incredible series it belongs to, and I am excited to see where else Dawes takes these characters. I’d recommend to those who love hotter scale romances, enemies/friends to lovers as a troupe, and for those who love non stop flirty banter.
Five flaming hot sparkly stars with cherries on top!
August 27, 2022
Title: Sweet Surrender (Citrus Pines Book 3)
Author: Lila Dawes
Hero/Heroine: Beau & Taylor
Tropes: Friends to Enemies to Lovers/Fake Relationship
TW/CW: Stalking, abortion, parental abandonment, threat of sexual assault, violence, body image issues,
THE GOOD 😀
I’m just gonna put it out there and say I didn’t think anyone could topple Dean Friggin’ Campbell from the top of my list of Lila Dawes hottest heroes, but folks, I think that Beau may have just done that. Lawd have mercy this man is fine and one of the sweetest blokes ever, the phrase ‘I’d quite like to climb him like a tree’ sprung to mind quite a few times when reading this book.
I adored both of these characters when they featured in the previous two books, however getting to see what spurned on their intense hatred of each other was incredible, and it made for an intense and pretty damn good story.
Taylor, sassy and sarcastic as ever, has harboured hatred for Beau since they were teenagers, and when you come to understand her as a character and what she’s been through, you get why she reacted the way she did toward Beau. However, when an old flame insists on being a Creepy Creeperson and starts stalking her, Beau is the one that steps in to help. From here on in, I was literally wanting to shout during every chapter ‘JUST BANG EACH OTHER LIKE A SCREEN DOOR IN A HURRICANE ALREADY!’ But I managed to refrain, I didn’t want my neighbours giving me funny looks the next time I saw them.
This story was a thing of beauty; both characters have major insecurities and are hesitant to confide in each other. However, as the story progressed, it was wonderful to see them slowly get back what they thought they’d lost. Flawed and fabulous, I couldn’t help but adore everything about Beau and Taylor. I’m sad I read this book so quick, now what am I meant to do?
THE BAD ☹️
Bitch, you serious?
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: Sweet and steamy love story with two wonderful characters (Hi Beau)
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Lila Dawes
Hero/Heroine: Beau & Taylor
Tropes: Friends to Enemies to Lovers/Fake Relationship
TW/CW: Stalking, abortion, parental abandonment, threat of sexual assault, violence, body image issues,
THE GOOD 😀
I’m just gonna put it out there and say I didn’t think anyone could topple Dean Friggin’ Campbell from the top of my list of Lila Dawes hottest heroes, but folks, I think that Beau may have just done that. Lawd have mercy this man is fine and one of the sweetest blokes ever, the phrase ‘I’d quite like to climb him like a tree’ sprung to mind quite a few times when reading this book.
I adored both of these characters when they featured in the previous two books, however getting to see what spurned on their intense hatred of each other was incredible, and it made for an intense and pretty damn good story.
Taylor, sassy and sarcastic as ever, has harboured hatred for Beau since they were teenagers, and when you come to understand her as a character and what she’s been through, you get why she reacted the way she did toward Beau. However, when an old flame insists on being a Creepy Creeperson and starts stalking her, Beau is the one that steps in to help. From here on in, I was literally wanting to shout during every chapter ‘JUST BANG EACH OTHER LIKE A SCREEN DOOR IN A HURRICANE ALREADY!’ But I managed to refrain, I didn’t want my neighbours giving me funny looks the next time I saw them.
This story was a thing of beauty; both characters have major insecurities and are hesitant to confide in each other. However, as the story progressed, it was wonderful to see them slowly get back what they thought they’d lost. Flawed and fabulous, I couldn’t help but adore everything about Beau and Taylor. I’m sad I read this book so quick, now what am I meant to do?
THE BAD ☹️
Bitch, you serious?
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: Sweet and steamy love story with two wonderful characters (Hi Beau)
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 10, 2022
|| 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 📝
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Sweet Surrender
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: Lila Dawes
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Romance
𝐌𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Let me start this review by saying that the author has provided me with many new #bookboyfriends over the course of this series but Ladies, we have a winner and his name is Beau. . . 𝘞𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 4.
He is beyond sexy in his own story and so incredibly sweet I just wanted to hug him, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸, 𝘪𝘧 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴𝘯'𝘵 𝘢 𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘭𝘭.
If you've read the first two books in the Citrus Pines series you'll know that Beau & Taylors relationship is filled with tension and "hatred" but getting to really dive into the reasons why was magical.
I adored this couple and seeing Beau step up to the plate when Taylor needed help with her creepy ex was incredible. The Slow-burn and sexual tension between these two is 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘤 and a true credit to the author who managed to keep me turning page after page desperate to see what happens next.
Taylor is the very best in female characters, she's sassy and sarcastic in the very best of ways but it was her vulnerability that really touched my heart and had me rooting for these two. They are beautifully flawed and I adored them.
All in all this book hooked me from the get go. Highly recommend.
Thank you to this incredible author for my gifted Earc copy of this unmissable love story.
* 𝘗𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰��� 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘣𝘦 𝘢 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦.
𝘛𝘞 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 at the 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 *
𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐎𝐟:
• Contemporary Romance
• Steamy Reads
• Only One Bed
• Fake Dating
• Slow-burn Romance
• Enemies-To-Lovers
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠:
𝘌𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘖𝘧 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘥: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝘘𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘖𝘧 𝘞𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝘗𝘭𝘰𝘵: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*****************************
𝘖𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Sweet Surrender
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: Lila Dawes
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Romance
𝐌𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Let me start this review by saying that the author has provided me with many new #bookboyfriends over the course of this series but Ladies, we have a winner and his name is Beau. . . 𝘞𝘦𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘵 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 4.
He is beyond sexy in his own story and so incredibly sweet I just wanted to hug him, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸, 𝘪𝘧 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴𝘯'𝘵 𝘢 𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘭𝘭.
If you've read the first two books in the Citrus Pines series you'll know that Beau & Taylors relationship is filled with tension and "hatred" but getting to really dive into the reasons why was magical.
I adored this couple and seeing Beau step up to the plate when Taylor needed help with her creepy ex was incredible. The Slow-burn and sexual tension between these two is 𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘤 and a true credit to the author who managed to keep me turning page after page desperate to see what happens next.
Taylor is the very best in female characters, she's sassy and sarcastic in the very best of ways but it was her vulnerability that really touched my heart and had me rooting for these two. They are beautifully flawed and I adored them.
All in all this book hooked me from the get go. Highly recommend.
Thank you to this incredible author for my gifted Earc copy of this unmissable love story.
* 𝘗𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰��� 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘣𝘦 𝘢 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦.
𝘛𝘞 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 at the 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 *
𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐎𝐟:
• Contemporary Romance
• Steamy Reads
• Only One Bed
• Fake Dating
• Slow-burn Romance
• Enemies-To-Lovers
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠:
𝘌𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘖𝘧 𝘙𝘦𝘢𝘥: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝘘𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘖𝘧 𝘞𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝘗𝘭𝘰𝘵: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*****************************
𝘖𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 12, 2022
Taylor & Beau
Wow - I was blown away with how quickly this book captured my attention. I read the first two books in the Citrus Pines series earlier this year and couldn't WAIT for Taylor and Beau's story, and boy did it not disappoint.
Taylor and Beau are childhood best friends who both (unknowingly) felt something more when one pivotal moment of miscommunication in their past lead them to be enemies for 15 years. When Taylor's safety is threatened by an ex-boyfriend, Beau steps in to serve as a fake boyfriend, attempting to draw out the crazy and keep him from hurting Taylor.
Together, they act like a couple in public and it starts to seep into their alone time. This story was a prime example of how having a history with someone can actually strengthen your relationship as adults. It was in the small moments of how they took care of each other because while they were pretending to be enemies, they still knew each other at their cores. Watching television, going on dates, and making drinks; just some of the everyday things that matter most in a strong relationship, show up when you truly know someone.
And goodness let me tell you - this story was a SLOW burn (for me), but dang was it worth it when Taylor and Beau finally dropped their armors and let each other in. Taylor awakens a side of Beau he didn't know he had and lemme tell ya - she likes it. What I liked best was that the author used the steamy scenes to enhance their relationship instead of relying on them to move the story forward.
This story had suspense, intrigue, chemistry, longing, transformation - so many things. I was so drawn into the story I struggled to put it down. The characters were complex, kind, good-hearted, and part of an amazing friend group.
While the Citrus Pines books can be read as standalones, I recommend reading them in order so that when you get to Taylor and Beau, you're just as ready as I was.
Overall, if you like a protective alpha male, a badass heroine, brother's best friend, a fake relationship, a little suspense, a man in sexy nerd glasses, and some bedroom heat - this one is for you.
Thank you to the author for an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Wow - I was blown away with how quickly this book captured my attention. I read the first two books in the Citrus Pines series earlier this year and couldn't WAIT for Taylor and Beau's story, and boy did it not disappoint.
Taylor and Beau are childhood best friends who both (unknowingly) felt something more when one pivotal moment of miscommunication in their past lead them to be enemies for 15 years. When Taylor's safety is threatened by an ex-boyfriend, Beau steps in to serve as a fake boyfriend, attempting to draw out the crazy and keep him from hurting Taylor.
Together, they act like a couple in public and it starts to seep into their alone time. This story was a prime example of how having a history with someone can actually strengthen your relationship as adults. It was in the small moments of how they took care of each other because while they were pretending to be enemies, they still knew each other at their cores. Watching television, going on dates, and making drinks; just some of the everyday things that matter most in a strong relationship, show up when you truly know someone.
And goodness let me tell you - this story was a SLOW burn (for me), but dang was it worth it when Taylor and Beau finally dropped their armors and let each other in. Taylor awakens a side of Beau he didn't know he had and lemme tell ya - she likes it. What I liked best was that the author used the steamy scenes to enhance their relationship instead of relying on them to move the story forward.
This story had suspense, intrigue, chemistry, longing, transformation - so many things. I was so drawn into the story I struggled to put it down. The characters were complex, kind, good-hearted, and part of an amazing friend group.
While the Citrus Pines books can be read as standalones, I recommend reading them in order so that when you get to Taylor and Beau, you're just as ready as I was.
Overall, if you like a protective alpha male, a badass heroine, brother's best friend, a fake relationship, a little suspense, a man in sexy nerd glasses, and some bedroom heat - this one is for you.
Thank you to the author for an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 3, 2022
“𝗦𝗼 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗱𝗼 𝘄𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗽 𝗶𝘁 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗱𝗼 𝘄𝗲 𝗱𝗼 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘄𝗲 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿’𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀?”
“𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘺, 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴.”
Taylor and Beau had me racing through book 1 and 2 because I knew this would be amazing. The hate, banter and tension that built up their story! 😮💨🔥
Taylor is a feisty, take no shit kind of girl but she’s also hiding so much hurt underneath. Beau is also holding in past hurt and resentment but seriously, he is the definition of sweet and protective. 🥹🥰
After an ex boyfriend won’t leave Taylor alone, Taylor and Beau agree to fake date in hopes of keeping him away. There is no denying the chemistry but they have to work through getting past the barriers that have been holding strong for years.
The ending was so sweet 🥹 and exactly what they needed to bring it full circle.
This was definitely my favorite of the 3! 😍
L🔥VE
😤Enemies to Lovers
🥸Fake Dating
👩🏻🦰Feisty Bar Owner with a vulnerable side
🧔🏻♂️Cinnamon Roll Hero with a protective side
🐢Slow Burn
😮💨All the built up tension and chemistry
🔥Steamy
🔚Sweetest teary eyed ending
TW•stalking, abortion, abandonment
“𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵’𝘴 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘺, 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴.”
Taylor and Beau had me racing through book 1 and 2 because I knew this would be amazing. The hate, banter and tension that built up their story! 😮💨🔥
Taylor is a feisty, take no shit kind of girl but she’s also hiding so much hurt underneath. Beau is also holding in past hurt and resentment but seriously, he is the definition of sweet and protective. 🥹🥰
After an ex boyfriend won’t leave Taylor alone, Taylor and Beau agree to fake date in hopes of keeping him away. There is no denying the chemistry but they have to work through getting past the barriers that have been holding strong for years.
The ending was so sweet 🥹 and exactly what they needed to bring it full circle.
This was definitely my favorite of the 3! 😍
L🔥VE
😤Enemies to Lovers
🥸Fake Dating
👩🏻🦰Feisty Bar Owner with a vulnerable side
🧔🏻♂️Cinnamon Roll Hero with a protective side
🐢Slow Burn
😮💨All the built up tension and chemistry
🔥Steamy
🔚Sweetest teary eyed ending
TW•stalking, abortion, abandonment
September 12, 2022
There are tropes galore here and I’m so pleased to say that it works! It works really well in fact, to the tune of 💛💛💛💛💔
There’s best friends to enemies to lovers
Fake dating
Close proximity
Small town romance
And we’ve got steam and a little ass slapping thrown in too!
On a more serious note, there are some serious content warnings around this book that you might want to look up. This novel highlights how one decision can have life changing/altering consequences. My heart almost broke for Taylor early on. You can understand the miscommunication that occurred between her and Beau, while appreciating just how important it is to have this in our relationships.
This is the third book in the Citrus Pines series and I absolutely want to check out Books 1 and 2 (the second book sounds👌🏻). There’s also a novella out next year and I’m a little partial to a novella here and there. It seems Lila can do no wrong!
*** Thank you to the author for allowing me to read a copy of this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion ***
There’s best friends to enemies to lovers
Fake dating
Close proximity
Small town romance
And we’ve got steam and a little ass slapping thrown in too!
On a more serious note, there are some serious content warnings around this book that you might want to look up. This novel highlights how one decision can have life changing/altering consequences. My heart almost broke for Taylor early on. You can understand the miscommunication that occurred between her and Beau, while appreciating just how important it is to have this in our relationships.
This is the third book in the Citrus Pines series and I absolutely want to check out Books 1 and 2 (the second book sounds👌🏻). There’s also a novella out next year and I’m a little partial to a novella here and there. It seems Lila can do no wrong!
*** Thank you to the author for allowing me to read a copy of this eARC in exchange for my honest opinion ***
July 30, 2025
I couldn’t wait to read Taylor and Beau’s story, and it gripped me from the beginning with Taylor’s sassy wit and antics of getting between Beau and his dates.
When Taylor has a bad experience with her persistent ex, they all (Taylor and Beau’s friends) come up with a plan to help. Taylor and Beau must fake date.
Fake dating and close proximity is up there with my favourite tropes, and this one does not disappoint. There is so much that going on, and so much depth to these characters.
Both Taylor and Beau have known each other since they were teenagers and after a huge misunderstanding there is some mutual hate and anger towards one another. They have to overcome a lot.
This was such a beautiful story. Can’t wait for the next one.
When Taylor has a bad experience with her persistent ex, they all (Taylor and Beau’s friends) come up with a plan to help. Taylor and Beau must fake date.
Fake dating and close proximity is up there with my favourite tropes, and this one does not disappoint. There is so much that going on, and so much depth to these characters.
Both Taylor and Beau have known each other since they were teenagers and after a huge misunderstanding there is some mutual hate and anger towards one another. They have to overcome a lot.
This was such a beautiful story. Can’t wait for the next one.
September 1, 2022
Tayler and Beau have taken the reigns as my favorite couple in this series.
My favorite trope is enemies to lovers for a reason. Something about watching two bickering people come together in steamy ways just makes me all gooey inside.
These two have some serious baggage with regards to their shared past. In some ways it’s understandable what happened and why they’re bitter. The insecurities were strong in them even as adults. It may have taken a crazy ex of hers to show them they were perfect for each but then the reader knew that.
Loved these two though wanted smack them for their stubbornness in admitting their insecurities and love.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
My favorite trope is enemies to lovers for a reason. Something about watching two bickering people come together in steamy ways just makes me all gooey inside.
These two have some serious baggage with regards to their shared past. In some ways it’s understandable what happened and why they’re bitter. The insecurities were strong in them even as adults. It may have taken a crazy ex of hers to show them they were perfect for each but then the reader knew that.
Loved these two though wanted smack them for their stubbornness in admitting their insecurities and love.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
September 10, 2022
Love…is always worth the risk
I was asked by Lila to ARC read her 3rd instalment in The Citrus Pines Series.
I went into this not having read her previous books.
This is a sweet story of enemies to lovers, second chance romance.
Taylor is a strong independent woman who has shit her self off to love.
Beau is a hot personal trainer, with insecurities spilling over from his teenage years.
They hate each other…he broke her heart, whilst simultaneously she his.
Their story of coming together is hot, steamy and sexy.
It’s not a straightforward journey together, there are twists and turns - unexpected events but it is a beautiful story.
I was asked by Lila to ARC read her 3rd instalment in The Citrus Pines Series.
I went into this not having read her previous books.
This is a sweet story of enemies to lovers, second chance romance.
Taylor is a strong independent woman who has shit her self off to love.
Beau is a hot personal trainer, with insecurities spilling over from his teenage years.
They hate each other…he broke her heart, whilst simultaneously she his.
Their story of coming together is hot, steamy and sexy.
It’s not a straightforward journey together, there are twists and turns - unexpected events but it is a beautiful story.
September 2, 2022
I love this series of small-town romances! Sweet Surrender is the third book in the Citrus Pines series and tells Taylor and Beau’s story. I was so excited to finally learn more about Taylor and Beau’s complicated history and why they hate each other so much.
I loved Taylor’s spirit (and her snark and sass), and Beau was such a genuinely nice guy. They have so much chemistry and have both been through a lot, so I was so happy to see them finally open up to each other and move forward.
Even though Sweet Surrender is a sweet and steamy romance, the author deals with some tough subjects (stalking, abortion, parent abandonment, body image), but she does so with sensitivity and care.
If you love small-town romances with strong friendships, a lot of emotion, and plenty of heat, you will love the Citrus Pines series!
Thank you to the author for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I loved Taylor’s spirit (and her snark and sass), and Beau was such a genuinely nice guy. They have so much chemistry and have both been through a lot, so I was so happy to see them finally open up to each other and move forward.
Even though Sweet Surrender is a sweet and steamy romance, the author deals with some tough subjects (stalking, abortion, parent abandonment, body image), but she does so with sensitivity and care.
If you love small-town romances with strong friendships, a lot of emotion, and plenty of heat, you will love the Citrus Pines series!
Thank you to the author for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
September 10, 2022
it’s so good
Enemies to Lovers, Best Friends to Lovers, Second Chance Romance. This book has everything! You are going to laugh out loud, you are going to swoon and definitely you are going to fall in love with Beau and Taylor. They are the perfect couple. Together they are invencibles. I really enjoy reading this book. This is a new author for me and I’m happy that it came to me.
Enemies to Lovers, Best Friends to Lovers, Second Chance Romance. This book has everything! You are going to laugh out loud, you are going to swoon and definitely you are going to fall in love with Beau and Taylor. They are the perfect couple. Together they are invencibles. I really enjoy reading this book. This is a new author for me and I’m happy that it came to me.
April 7, 2023
deserved second chance!
I’m loving my visits to Citrus Pines. With a great cast of characters with really heartwarming and sometimes heartbreaking stories.
Beau and Taylor certainly took their sweet time getting to the point but it was definitely worth it! This story is a joy to read as we gradually get to know their personalities and follow along as they rediscover a friendship while at the same time forming a true bond…
Can’t wait for the next visit!
I’m loving my visits to Citrus Pines. With a great cast of characters with really heartwarming and sometimes heartbreaking stories.
Beau and Taylor certainly took their sweet time getting to the point but it was definitely worth it! This story is a joy to read as we gradually get to know their personalities and follow along as they rediscover a friendship while at the same time forming a true bond…
Can’t wait for the next visit!
September 8, 2022
I loved this story. It’s a small town romance. It gives you all the feels. Taylor and Beau were so cute and angtsy. These two were meant for each other. I couldn’t get enough of it. And the pettiness coming from Taylor was amazing I love it. I’m definitely gonna go read the prior books in this series. I highly recommend this book. The spice was 🤌🏼
September 13, 2022
My favorite in the series! Lila’s writing just keeps getting better and better. Full review to come!
January 8, 2026
Taylor hates Beau. Years ago, Taylor allowed herself to fall to Beau only for him to break her heart into a million pieces and she has never forgiven him for what happened right after he broke her. Ever since, she's had one goal to sabotage all his dates.
Beau cannot stand Taylor. She has been the only woman ever to cause him to lose his cool by getting under his skin in ways no one else can. They spar and spit fire with their words and every time they are within close proximity of each other, it only reminds them of the pain they caused one another.
Yet, when Taylor needs help convincing her ex she’s moved on and wants nothing more to do with him, the person who immediately jumps to her rescue is none other than Beau who agrees to be her pretend boyfriend until her stalker ex gets the message that Taylor has moved on.
Beau and Taylor are forced to face their most painful truths and memories and communicate their feelings, in order to sell their lie and end up finding out that their hatred for one another is based on assumptions they each made about the other, revealing that they wasted years hating each other over unfortunate misunderstandings.
I loved this book, the chemistry, hatred and friendship between Beau and Taylor had be hooked instantly. It is so clear that they are both unaware of each others truth which is heartbreaking when it all is all finally revealed because it's shows just how much time they wasted when they could have been friends and found love with each other sooner. When feelings they both thought were long buried come back to the surface, they realise they're entering new territory for the first time as adults and it may not be the worst place to be at all.
Beau cannot stand Taylor. She has been the only woman ever to cause him to lose his cool by getting under his skin in ways no one else can. They spar and spit fire with their words and every time they are within close proximity of each other, it only reminds them of the pain they caused one another.
Yet, when Taylor needs help convincing her ex she’s moved on and wants nothing more to do with him, the person who immediately jumps to her rescue is none other than Beau who agrees to be her pretend boyfriend until her stalker ex gets the message that Taylor has moved on.
Beau and Taylor are forced to face their most painful truths and memories and communicate their feelings, in order to sell their lie and end up finding out that their hatred for one another is based on assumptions they each made about the other, revealing that they wasted years hating each other over unfortunate misunderstandings.
I loved this book, the chemistry, hatred and friendship between Beau and Taylor had be hooked instantly. It is so clear that they are both unaware of each others truth which is heartbreaking when it all is all finally revealed because it's shows just how much time they wasted when they could have been friends and found love with each other sooner. When feelings they both thought were long buried come back to the surface, they realise they're entering new territory for the first time as adults and it may not be the worst place to be at all.
August 24, 2022
📖: Sweet Surrender
Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🔥🔥🔥
Author: @liladawesauthor
.
"You make it too damn easy to love you, you know that? You're funny, too sassy, too caring, too sexy, too.. everything. I see you & I feel it, sweetheart every damn time I look at you. I feel it in my soul."
.
Sweet surrender is a standalone in the citrus pines series. I've not read the first two books but I think I will definitely go back to read them.🤩
Taylor and Beau have known each other since teenagers and we're best friends. A misunderstanding tears them apart and years later are riddled with guilt and spite🤧 They start fake dating becoz of Taylor's crazy ex. Yes, they were fake dating 😏 and the tension between them was delicious 🔥
It was a delicious slow burn 🤤 The way they got over their sexual frustration was super hot 🥵🔥 The sexual scenes were lit🔥 Beau is dominating and loves to spank Taylor when she gets on his nerves🤭❣️
The banter between them was awesome 😂🤩 both have the same sass and are cocky enough❣️
Beau learns confidence as Taylor accepts him, no matter his physical insecurities. Taylor learns it's okay to love. She was scared of loving or giving her heart to anyone but Beau was hell bent to be with her and proved he was worth her🥺❣️
I'm so in love with my babies🥺❣️ they went so well from start to end. The character development ❤️ They made me cry, there past was not good because of misunderstanding specially Taylor. She lost a lot😭 I feel for my girl and I'm so proud of her💫❤️
This book was mixture of sweet and spice❣️ The epilogue gave him tears too😭 This book was definitely worth reading. I loved it💫❤️
.
"I've fallen hopelessly, embarrassingly in love with you."
Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🔥🔥🔥
Author: @liladawesauthor
.
"You make it too damn easy to love you, you know that? You're funny, too sassy, too caring, too sexy, too.. everything. I see you & I feel it, sweetheart every damn time I look at you. I feel it in my soul."
.
Sweet surrender is a standalone in the citrus pines series. I've not read the first two books but I think I will definitely go back to read them.🤩
Taylor and Beau have known each other since teenagers and we're best friends. A misunderstanding tears them apart and years later are riddled with guilt and spite🤧 They start fake dating becoz of Taylor's crazy ex. Yes, they were fake dating 😏 and the tension between them was delicious 🔥
It was a delicious slow burn 🤤 The way they got over their sexual frustration was super hot 🥵🔥 The sexual scenes were lit🔥 Beau is dominating and loves to spank Taylor when she gets on his nerves🤭❣️
The banter between them was awesome 😂🤩 both have the same sass and are cocky enough❣️
Beau learns confidence as Taylor accepts him, no matter his physical insecurities. Taylor learns it's okay to love. She was scared of loving or giving her heart to anyone but Beau was hell bent to be with her and proved he was worth her🥺❣️
I'm so in love with my babies🥺❣️ they went so well from start to end. The character development ❤️ They made me cry, there past was not good because of misunderstanding specially Taylor. She lost a lot😭 I feel for my girl and I'm so proud of her💫❤️
This book was mixture of sweet and spice❣️ The epilogue gave him tears too😭 This book was definitely worth reading. I loved it💫❤️
.
"I've fallen hopelessly, embarrassingly in love with you."
October 3, 2022
4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Sweet Surrender is book 3 in the Citrus Pines series by Lila Dawes, and what a sweet and steamy enemies to lovers, fake relationship romance it is!
Taylor and Beau are enemies, though once they were not, but a lot of time has passed since their high school days and now they swap barbs and heated comments like the enemies they are. But what is hiding underneath all the hatred?
Taylor needs help with a nasty ex who just won’t believe their relationship is over. Beau and Taylor are in the same friend group, and they all decide Taylor needs a fake boyfriend to show her ex she really is over him. Bring on Beau and all the slow burn tension, that then turns steamy! This one has the spice!
Taylor is just the best! Throughout Sweet Surrender, her character really develops as she deals with past hurts, and I love her sassy, no-holds barred nature. The banter between her and Beau really sets the scene for the story and the anticipation of what’s to come is high. Beau is so sweet-natured (except in the bedroom!) he totally complements Taylor, he has his own insecurities to deal with and I love how the older ladies attending his yoga and gym classes totally gawp at him. He’s a good one!
Add in their friends, Dean and Christy, Justine and Blake (who have their own stories in book 1 and 2) small-town gossip and a dash of suspense and drama and you have Sweet Surrender, a book I recommend for readers of contemporary romance. I really enjoyed it!
There is a content warning at the beginning of the book, DM me if you’d like to know more.
The author sent me a copy of this book to read and this is my honest review.
Sweet Surrender is book 3 in the Citrus Pines series by Lila Dawes, and what a sweet and steamy enemies to lovers, fake relationship romance it is!
Taylor and Beau are enemies, though once they were not, but a lot of time has passed since their high school days and now they swap barbs and heated comments like the enemies they are. But what is hiding underneath all the hatred?
Taylor needs help with a nasty ex who just won’t believe their relationship is over. Beau and Taylor are in the same friend group, and they all decide Taylor needs a fake boyfriend to show her ex she really is over him. Bring on Beau and all the slow burn tension, that then turns steamy! This one has the spice!
Taylor is just the best! Throughout Sweet Surrender, her character really develops as she deals with past hurts, and I love her sassy, no-holds barred nature. The banter between her and Beau really sets the scene for the story and the anticipation of what’s to come is high. Beau is so sweet-natured (except in the bedroom!) he totally complements Taylor, he has his own insecurities to deal with and I love how the older ladies attending his yoga and gym classes totally gawp at him. He’s a good one!
Add in their friends, Dean and Christy, Justine and Blake (who have their own stories in book 1 and 2) small-town gossip and a dash of suspense and drama and you have Sweet Surrender, a book I recommend for readers of contemporary romance. I really enjoyed it!
There is a content warning at the beginning of the book, DM me if you’d like to know more.
The author sent me a copy of this book to read and this is my honest review.
September 3, 2022
This book had it ALL the things I love about a small town romance with a dash of suspense, a heaping amount of spice, the perfect amount of laughter, and a side of wonderful characters. Okay, so I was originally going with a recipe analogy that went a bit awry but, you get the gist! 😂
Beau and Taylor, once as close as best friends could be, then became enemies until they became…more? Have I ever mentioned I really enjoy a good fake relationship/forced proximity scenario in a story? I’m not 100% sure why, but I just love seeing the feelings of the characters slowly progress from maybe just friends (or in this case, somewhat tolerating each other) to “I NEED YOU IN MY LIFE! I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT YOU!” Well, you get all of that AND THEM SOME here. I was REALLY invested in Beau and Taylor working on their relationship and dealing with their past. They had a lot of miscommunications based on past insecurities and it seemed very cathartic once they processed some things.
Also, can I just say? The sexual TENSION! Not to sound like Charlie Brown, but good grief! 🥵🥵🥵 It was killing me there for a bit but, in the best way! 😄😉
I adored Taylor & Beau! I adored their circle of friends and the fact that Taylor had sass for daaayyyysss!
This was my first read by Lila Dawes and I’m so appreciative that I was able to read an ARC!
🔥Quick Notes🔥
✨ Small town romance
✨Second chance vibes
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨Fake relationship
✨Little bit of forced proximity
✨The perfect amount of steamy here!
🔥Ratings🔥
💗💗💗💗💗
🌶🌶🌶
🔥Some of my favorite things🔥
✨ The Great British Bake Off anyone?! This was an adorable surprise.
✨ Taylor’s commentary on Beau without a shirt on…. 😂
✨ I kinda loved that Beau was this super friendly and helpful gentleman with most everyone but, became this super protective and a bit dominating with Taylor. 🥵🔥🔥🔥
Beau and Taylor, once as close as best friends could be, then became enemies until they became…more? Have I ever mentioned I really enjoy a good fake relationship/forced proximity scenario in a story? I’m not 100% sure why, but I just love seeing the feelings of the characters slowly progress from maybe just friends (or in this case, somewhat tolerating each other) to “I NEED YOU IN MY LIFE! I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT YOU!” Well, you get all of that AND THEM SOME here. I was REALLY invested in Beau and Taylor working on their relationship and dealing with their past. They had a lot of miscommunications based on past insecurities and it seemed very cathartic once they processed some things.
Also, can I just say? The sexual TENSION! Not to sound like Charlie Brown, but good grief! 🥵🥵🥵 It was killing me there for a bit but, in the best way! 😄😉
I adored Taylor & Beau! I adored their circle of friends and the fact that Taylor had sass for daaayyyysss!
This was my first read by Lila Dawes and I’m so appreciative that I was able to read an ARC!
🔥Quick Notes🔥
✨ Small town romance
✨Second chance vibes
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨Fake relationship
✨Little bit of forced proximity
✨The perfect amount of steamy here!
🔥Ratings🔥
💗💗💗💗💗
🌶🌶🌶
🔥Some of my favorite things🔥
✨ The Great British Bake Off anyone?! This was an adorable surprise.
✨ Taylor’s commentary on Beau without a shirt on…. 😂
✨ I kinda loved that Beau was this super friendly and helpful gentleman with most everyone but, became this super protective and a bit dominating with Taylor. 🥵🔥🔥🔥
September 15, 2022
This book had all the angst you could ever want! This was also such an amazing slow burn, Taylor and Beau were friends during their teenage years. Beau having feelings for her but not wanting to act on them due to him not feeling confident and comfortable with himself, we find out Taylor has the same feelings towards him but nothing is able to come of it due to a moment of miscommunication which completely obliterates their friendship.
We fast forward, both now adults and you realize there is still a lot of resentment and hate, Taylor blames Beau for things that happened in her life and makes it very well known she cannot stand him! Oh but the hate she feels towards him is not enough to stop them from beginning a fake relationship in hopes of deterring Taylor’s ex who has become a bit of a stalker! I literally loved and laughed so much as Beau and Taylor try and make their relationship as believable as possible and omg the sexual tension between them was so good!!
I also just loved the refreshing way Lila tackled the insecurity Beau felt in regards to his body image and just how sweet Taylor was through it all, once Taylor finally allowed herself to believe it could work, nothing could stop them.
We fast forward, both now adults and you realize there is still a lot of resentment and hate, Taylor blames Beau for things that happened in her life and makes it very well known she cannot stand him! Oh but the hate she feels towards him is not enough to stop them from beginning a fake relationship in hopes of deterring Taylor’s ex who has become a bit of a stalker! I literally loved and laughed so much as Beau and Taylor try and make their relationship as believable as possible and omg the sexual tension between them was so good!!
I also just loved the refreshing way Lila tackled the insecurity Beau felt in regards to his body image and just how sweet Taylor was through it all, once Taylor finally allowed herself to believe it could work, nothing could stop them.
September 7, 2022
Having read both It's Only Love and the Color of Love, I've been a huge fan of Lila's work for a long time, and suffice to say, Taylor & Beau's story was one I was waiting for a LONG TIME for!
Lila DID NOT disappoint! Beneath the sniping and edgy banter, lay two incredibly stubborn, broken hearts, unable to let go of the traumatic event that forced them apart in high school or admit that they still gave a damn about each other.
Save us all from Beau & Taylor's stubbornness...or rather, a scary incident with Taylor's ex does that nicely and throwing them together in unfortunate circumstances not only forced them to admit how they feel, but boy did it bring the steam!
Don't believe me? Just wait for a certain sequence in Taylor's office. Turns out these two not only have phenomenal chemistry through bantering, it also translates to the bedroom. Lila turns the steam up another notch and it definitely rises up off the page!
Want a steamy, 2nd chance-ish romance? You need to pick up this one!
Lila DID NOT disappoint! Beneath the sniping and edgy banter, lay two incredibly stubborn, broken hearts, unable to let go of the traumatic event that forced them apart in high school or admit that they still gave a damn about each other.
Save us all from Beau & Taylor's stubbornness...or rather, a scary incident with Taylor's ex does that nicely and throwing them together in unfortunate circumstances not only forced them to admit how they feel, but boy did it bring the steam!
Don't believe me? Just wait for a certain sequence in Taylor's office. Turns out these two not only have phenomenal chemistry through bantering, it also translates to the bedroom. Lila turns the steam up another notch and it definitely rises up off the page!
Want a steamy, 2nd chance-ish romance? You need to pick up this one!
August 10, 2024
📕BOOK RECOMMENDATION📕
Oh wow! This is another banger from @liladawesauthor!! This is the third book in the Citrus Pines Series and Taylor and Beau did not disappoint.
Taylor is the snarky bar owner who is set out to ruin any date Beau is bringing to the bar by making up hilarious lies about him. There is history between the two, and the edging from book 1 has been absolutely delicious. After an awful situation with Taylor’s ex, Beau steps up to be her fake boyfriend, and well, the rest is there waiting for you.
I just blooming love the way Lila writes her characters- I wish they were real so I couldn’t befriend them. The connections and relationships they all have is just swoon worthy. I laugh out loud at how boisterous the boys are with each other (Dean, Blake, Beau and newbie Will), and how they wind each other up is just hilarious to read. The girlies (Christy, Justine and Taylor) are such babes and the way they care and support each other is just lovely.
As with the other two books in the series, this does deal with some difficult topics, so check the TWs, but it’s written with decorum and sensitivity. What I loved most about it was having a MMC with body issues and watching him overcome those was empowering.
I’ve been excited for these two since book 1 and their relationship was HOT as. I was not disappointed.
I look forward to reading book 4 💕
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Oh wow! This is another banger from @liladawesauthor!! This is the third book in the Citrus Pines Series and Taylor and Beau did not disappoint.
Taylor is the snarky bar owner who is set out to ruin any date Beau is bringing to the bar by making up hilarious lies about him. There is history between the two, and the edging from book 1 has been absolutely delicious. After an awful situation with Taylor’s ex, Beau steps up to be her fake boyfriend, and well, the rest is there waiting for you.
I just blooming love the way Lila writes her characters- I wish they were real so I couldn’t befriend them. The connections and relationships they all have is just swoon worthy. I laugh out loud at how boisterous the boys are with each other (Dean, Blake, Beau and newbie Will), and how they wind each other up is just hilarious to read. The girlies (Christy, Justine and Taylor) are such babes and the way they care and support each other is just lovely.
As with the other two books in the series, this does deal with some difficult topics, so check the TWs, but it’s written with decorum and sensitivity. What I loved most about it was having a MMC with body issues and watching him overcome those was empowering.
I’ve been excited for these two since book 1 and their relationship was HOT as. I was not disappointed.
I look forward to reading book 4 💕
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
September 11, 2025
I can’t rate this a 1⭐️ because I don’t hate it that much but…it’s close. Forget all tropes listed as the only trope you should know about it “we both have underlying trauma in our lives and need therapy desperately but haven’t gotten it, therefore making our every interaction toxic and horrible”.
Sticking with the running theme for this series - you all need therapy, badly! Take away the toxic, mean, horrible shit they say to each other and you’re left with absolutely no chemistry. Beau and Taylor are bland. And I detest Taylor. I thought once she unloaded her “secrets” that she’d get more bearable but, nope. This woman needs so much therapy it isn’t funny. And how shitty for her to say that her friends only believe they’re in love because she sure as shit doesn’t believe in love so that means it doesn’t exist for anyone.
This book is toxic, bland, flat, and almost not worth the read. I just kept reading because I wanted to see the conclusion of the Dale saga. Which, by the way, was such a fluffy plot point.
Read it or don’t. Just ignore the 5⭐️ ratings.
Sticking with the running theme for this series - you all need therapy, badly! Take away the toxic, mean, horrible shit they say to each other and you’re left with absolutely no chemistry. Beau and Taylor are bland. And I detest Taylor. I thought once she unloaded her “secrets” that she’d get more bearable but, nope. This woman needs so much therapy it isn’t funny. And how shitty for her to say that her friends only believe they’re in love because she sure as shit doesn’t believe in love so that means it doesn’t exist for anyone.
This book is toxic, bland, flat, and almost not worth the read. I just kept reading because I wanted to see the conclusion of the Dale saga. Which, by the way, was such a fluffy plot point.
Read it or don’t. Just ignore the 5⭐️ ratings.
March 19, 2023
❤️🔥 Did somebody say spicy with a side of pie? ❤️🔥
Sign. Me. Up.
I haven’t read any of @liladawesauthor books before so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. But holy heck man, Sweet Surrender blew me away!
Taylor and Beau have a complicated history. Once we find out what really happened That Day in high school to make them “enemies” it all clicks into place on why they act the way they do with each other in current time. And while I balled my eyes out with their stories, I absolutely adored watching them let each other back in and fall in love again.
I am ALWAYS a sucker for the fake dating trope and I honestly loved the way it worked in this story. From the beginning they have been shutting the other out emotionally still, but they always had feelings for the other. So the pining and attraction sucked me in big time. Even while we were chasing away the bad stalker guy…oh my!
Honestly I just loved watching these two break down those emotional barriers, overcome their insecurities and past hurts, and grow to realize love is sometimes enough if you allow it to be. And, to me, there is no story more beautiful than that.
This book came out in September so go read it if you enjoy spicy romance with a side of sweetness and suspense (not me ending with an alliteration!)
Sign. Me. Up.
I haven’t read any of @liladawesauthor books before so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. But holy heck man, Sweet Surrender blew me away!
Taylor and Beau have a complicated history. Once we find out what really happened That Day in high school to make them “enemies” it all clicks into place on why they act the way they do with each other in current time. And while I balled my eyes out with their stories, I absolutely adored watching them let each other back in and fall in love again.
I am ALWAYS a sucker for the fake dating trope and I honestly loved the way it worked in this story. From the beginning they have been shutting the other out emotionally still, but they always had feelings for the other. So the pining and attraction sucked me in big time. Even while we were chasing away the bad stalker guy…oh my!
Honestly I just loved watching these two break down those emotional barriers, overcome their insecurities and past hurts, and grow to realize love is sometimes enough if you allow it to be. And, to me, there is no story more beautiful than that.
This book came out in September so go read it if you enjoy spicy romance with a side of sweetness and suspense (not me ending with an alliteration!)
January 1, 2023
Amazing Read
I have been looking forward to Taylor and Beau since I read book 1 in this series. I had no idea what to expect but it was not this. The background that these two endured and had to work through was not easy. One huge misunderstanding led to so much heartbreak and it took them some time to move past that, but so worth it. I loved watching them grow as a couple and that it wasn’t always easy and it felt real, like these two could be one of my closet friends. My favorite kind of book and another great installment to this series.
I have been looking forward to Taylor and Beau since I read book 1 in this series. I had no idea what to expect but it was not this. The background that these two endured and had to work through was not easy. One huge misunderstanding led to so much heartbreak and it took them some time to move past that, but so worth it. I loved watching them grow as a couple and that it wasn’t always easy and it felt real, like these two could be one of my closet friends. My favorite kind of book and another great installment to this series.
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