What do you think?
Rate this book
Never Say Never #1
Not How I Saw That Going
Lyndi
Eating carbs and forgetting to fold the laundry aren’t my only talents. I'm also proficient at speaking without thinking. Which is how I ended up confessing my love to a stranger at the grocery store.
The same stranger who also happens to be a firefighter—a very grumpy one—for the exact fire station I owe a debt to.
I didn’t mean to embarrass the man, and I certainly didn’t mean to make him famous. That was a happy coincidence.
He could use some humor in his life.
But when I decided to be my own queen and take back my life, I didn’t expect fake dating the grump to be a part of it.
Fake boyfriends aren’t supposed to come with real feelings.
Moving on is harder than I thought.
Ward
Rescuing a little boy at the grocery store was just a normal day for me. Except usually I’m in gear and getting paid to do so.
Noticing his mom was not part of the norm.
I saw stuff in the war no one wants to see. The kind of stuff you don’t bring up on a first date. Which is why I haven’t. Dated, I mean.
I’ve made it clear that I want to be left alone, but it doesn’t stop my mom from setting me up with women I have no interest in.
I’m certainly not interested in Lyndi. She’s a single mom, whose carelessness made me famous.
Okay, so I can’t blame that all on her—as much as I’d like to.
But she’s there when I need her, and apparently, I need a fake girlfriend.
My best friend insists my heart died in the war, then why does it beat so fast when Lyndi is around?
Eating carbs and forgetting to fold the laundry aren’t my only talents. I'm also proficient at speaking without thinking. Which is how I ended up confessing my love to a stranger at the grocery store.
The same stranger who also happens to be a firefighter—a very grumpy one—for the exact fire station I owe a debt to.
I didn’t mean to embarrass the man, and I certainly didn’t mean to make him famous. That was a happy coincidence.
He could use some humor in his life.
But when I decided to be my own queen and take back my life, I didn’t expect fake dating the grump to be a part of it.
Fake boyfriends aren’t supposed to come with real feelings.
Moving on is harder than I thought.
Ward
Rescuing a little boy at the grocery store was just a normal day for me. Except usually I’m in gear and getting paid to do so.
Noticing his mom was not part of the norm.
I saw stuff in the war no one wants to see. The kind of stuff you don’t bring up on a first date. Which is why I haven’t. Dated, I mean.
I’ve made it clear that I want to be left alone, but it doesn’t stop my mom from setting me up with women I have no interest in.
I’m certainly not interested in Lyndi. She’s a single mom, whose carelessness made me famous.
Okay, so I can’t blame that all on her—as much as I’d like to.
But she’s there when I need her, and apparently, I need a fake girlfriend.
My best friend insists my heart died in the war, then why does it beat so fast when Lyndi is around?
ebook
Published January 29, 2023
116 people are currently reading
1308 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
March 6, 2023
Rom-coms are my coping method. 🤷♀️ This was really cute and I found myself smiling and laughing multiple times at the antics of four-year-old Crew and the embarrassment that would follow said antics for Lyndi.
Like some other clean rom-coms I’ve read recently, plot was a 3-star, but content would make it lower for me, personally. I’m not reviewing this book officially, though, so I’m just going to mark it as a 3 on here and call it a day.
Content wise, both Lyndi and Ward notice each other’s physical appearance more than I cared for, but I have a low tolerance for that. It was particularly a bit much at the beginning with Lyndi and his muscles. There’s about a handful of suggestive comments/innuendos that would be found in a 1990s PG-13 movie that would goes over the heads of youngins. A couple cut-off curses (‘holy sh—‘ and ‘a—‘) and other by-words like ‘crap’ and ‘freaking’. Kisses that last up to about five sentences and wanting to be kissed/kissing thoughts happen too. Lyndi’s ex & mom are terrible, belittling people that have affected her mentally and how she views herself. Ward was PTSD from a war that killed half of his men and different events trigger flashbacks for him.
A major thank you to the author for including a trigger warning for PTSD. I wish more authors would realize how important wanting readers about content is and I truly appreciate that this author cared enough to share about it.
Like some other clean rom-coms I’ve read recently, plot was a 3-star, but content would make it lower for me, personally. I’m not reviewing this book officially, though, so I’m just going to mark it as a 3 on here and call it a day.
Content wise, both Lyndi and Ward notice each other’s physical appearance more than I cared for, but I have a low tolerance for that. It was particularly a bit much at the beginning with Lyndi and his muscles. There’s about a handful of suggestive comments/innuendos that would be found in a 1990s PG-13 movie that would goes over the heads of youngins. A couple cut-off curses (‘holy sh—‘ and ‘a—‘) and other by-words like ‘crap’ and ‘freaking’. Kisses that last up to about five sentences and wanting to be kissed/kissing thoughts happen too. Lyndi’s ex & mom are terrible, belittling people that have affected her mentally and how she views herself. Ward was PTSD from a war that killed half of his men and different events trigger flashbacks for him.
A major thank you to the author for including a trigger warning for PTSD. I wish more authors would realize how important wanting readers about content is and I truly appreciate that this author cared enough to share about it.
January 20, 2023
This book was fun! I’ve read Jenessa’s YA books and loved them so I was excited to read her latest rom-com.
I love stories with kids in them so I found that aspect of the story really fun and entertaining! Crew was pretty adorable and hilarious. ❤️
I liked Lyndi! I loved her positive spirit, her fierce love for her son, and her humor. And I really liked Ward too! I love how he treated Lyndi and her son with respect and care. He was definitely a great male lead!
The romance was a fun and sweet one!
I will say, I’m personally not a big fan of when the MCs repeatedly notice things about each others physical appearance (the girl noticing how muscular the guy is, the guy noticing the girls curves) and the MCs often thinking about kissing each other (I found this was more of a trend in Lyndi’s POV rather than Ward’s). I know this doesn’t bother most people and this is pretty common in rom-coms but it’s why my personal rating was a a little lower. They’re also mild innuendo/suggestive comments which is also common in rom-coms. It was a closed-door romance though.
All that being said, I did really like Lyndi and Ward together! They were really sweet and fun together, and I enjoyed watching them grow closer! From their meet-cute to their fake-dating, they were quite the entertaining couple. I laughed out loud several times.
Overall, I enjoyed this book! While sometimes I felt like the romance was based more on the characters physical attraction, once they got to truly know each other and it became more than that, it was a really sweet romance! I also love that this book wasn’t all fluff but touched on some deep topics as well. If you enjoy rom-coms that include a fun meet-cute, the fake-relationship trope, a hilarious little boy, laugh out loud moments as well as emotional moments, I think you’ll love this one!
*Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy to review! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I love stories with kids in them so I found that aspect of the story really fun and entertaining! Crew was pretty adorable and hilarious. ❤️
I liked Lyndi! I loved her positive spirit, her fierce love for her son, and her humor. And I really liked Ward too! I love how he treated Lyndi and her son with respect and care. He was definitely a great male lead!
The romance was a fun and sweet one!
I will say, I’m personally not a big fan of when the MCs repeatedly notice things about each others physical appearance (the girl noticing how muscular the guy is, the guy noticing the girls curves) and the MCs often thinking about kissing each other (I found this was more of a trend in Lyndi’s POV rather than Ward’s). I know this doesn’t bother most people and this is pretty common in rom-coms but it’s why my personal rating was a a little lower. They’re also mild innuendo/suggestive comments which is also common in rom-coms. It was a closed-door romance though.
All that being said, I did really like Lyndi and Ward together! They were really sweet and fun together, and I enjoyed watching them grow closer! From their meet-cute to their fake-dating, they were quite the entertaining couple. I laughed out loud several times.
Overall, I enjoyed this book! While sometimes I felt like the romance was based more on the characters physical attraction, once they got to truly know each other and it became more than that, it was a really sweet romance! I also love that this book wasn’t all fluff but touched on some deep topics as well. If you enjoy rom-coms that include a fun meet-cute, the fake-relationship trope, a hilarious little boy, laugh out loud moments as well as emotional moments, I think you’ll love this one!
*Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy to review! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 10, 2023
if your MMC is a firefighter or a man in uniform it already has my heart.
this was a fluffy, swoony, romcom. this book has slow burn, fake dating, and A hot/scarred ex -military fireman and a single mum and the meet cutes. I really liked the writing.
I laughed a lot in the book, I loved the character development of ward and Lyndi. I loved Lyndi and ward's relationship with crew (even though he could be a a lot sometimes) but my favorite character was Maddie (I would love to see her book). I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a sweet romcom.
Thank you to the author for the eARC. these opinions are all mine.
this was a fluffy, swoony, romcom. this book has slow burn, fake dating, and A hot/scarred ex -military fireman and a single mum and the meet cutes. I really liked the writing.
I laughed a lot in the book, I loved the character development of ward and Lyndi. I loved Lyndi and ward's relationship with crew (even though he could be a a lot sometimes) but my favorite character was Maddie (I would love to see her book). I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a sweet romcom.
Thank you to the author for the eARC. these opinions are all mine.
October 4, 2023
When I say this book had me GIGGLING and KICKING MY FEET at 1am I mean it!!! The plot moved quick and the characters were quirky, but it had some hilarious situations and one liners. A super fun, cute read.
February 4, 2023
Hilarious with awesome characters!
March 23, 2023
1.5 lol 😝
wasn’t for me, the whole thing was ridiculous
and even though it was short it felt soooo long, idk why I even finished it
wasn’t for me, the whole thing was ridiculous
and even though it was short it felt soooo long, idk why I even finished it
March 12, 2024
dnf. Boring and the child is a demon.
March 3, 2023
4 stars.
“There’s a difference between being cautious and being afraid…One you control; the other controls you.”
- ptsd rep
- Fireman and Single mom to 4 year old
- Fake dating with slow burn
- Creepy ex boyfriend
Four-year-old Crew is a handddddfull. I have a four year old boy so I can definitely relate to some of those chaotic parenting moments. Lyndi was such a sweet mom to Crew and seeing all of her sacrifices for him was so endearing. And then you throw in Ward’s interactions with Crew. Swoon. So much swoon. Lyndi and Ward both had a lot of growth that needed to happen individually- and I think that was handled really well throughout the story.
Something that was a little strange for me was the family dynamics- including Sophie. Ward’s parents felt very flip of the switch for me- and I honestly still don’t like them- but I was happy for a resolution there. As far as Lyndi and her family issues- I couldn’t figure out what was going on with her mother. The reasoning and the why. I wanted to understand more concerning that strained relationship, but was happy that Lyndi was able to finally find peace.
Something I loved was Caleb- one of Ward’s coworkers. His personality was so likeable. I just want a whole book about him and his adventures in the FBI. Can we make that happen??
This one was so sweet. I couldn’t put it down. That’s how likable I felt these characters were. Crew was a LOT- but I felt like he was written so accurately because my 4 year old has a lot in common with Crew. Overall- this book was great. I thought it was just lovely, and I plan to go through Jenessa’s backlist because I loved her writing style. It felt similar to Sarah Adams for me- which is a win.
“There’s a difference between being cautious and being afraid…One you control; the other controls you.”
- ptsd rep
- Fireman and Single mom to 4 year old
- Fake dating with slow burn
- Creepy ex boyfriend
Four-year-old Crew is a handddddfull. I have a four year old boy so I can definitely relate to some of those chaotic parenting moments. Lyndi was such a sweet mom to Crew and seeing all of her sacrifices for him was so endearing. And then you throw in Ward’s interactions with Crew. Swoon. So much swoon. Lyndi and Ward both had a lot of growth that needed to happen individually- and I think that was handled really well throughout the story.
Something that was a little strange for me was the family dynamics- including Sophie. Ward’s parents felt very flip of the switch for me- and I honestly still don’t like them- but I was happy for a resolution there. As far as Lyndi and her family issues- I couldn’t figure out what was going on with her mother. The reasoning and the why. I wanted to understand more concerning that strained relationship, but was happy that Lyndi was able to finally find peace.
Something I loved was Caleb- one of Ward’s coworkers. His personality was so likeable. I just want a whole book about him and his adventures in the FBI. Can we make that happen??
This one was so sweet. I couldn’t put it down. That’s how likable I felt these characters were. Crew was a LOT- but I felt like he was written so accurately because my 4 year old has a lot in common with Crew. Overall- this book was great. I thought it was just lovely, and I plan to go through Jenessa’s backlist because I loved her writing style. It felt similar to Sarah Adams for me- which is a win.
February 9, 2025
5 ★★★★★
Wow— definitely did not see that coming!! ♥︎♥︎
I loved loved lovedddd this book!! ♡♡♡
Firstly, CREW YOU AMAZING BALL OF SUNSHINE & LIFE OF EVERY PARTY!!! I LOVED YOU! STILL DO!! THE CUTEST (realest) 4 year old!! 😭😭🤌🏻🤌🏻 you made me laugh so hard & also get emo! 😭🫶🏻
Ok and then going onto— Ward & Lyndi— you guys were amazing! The slow burn was sooo gooddd!! ♥︎
Loved the other characters too!!
Would've liked a more extended epi, and seeing her actually confronting her mom about hiding her dad's family from her— but all in all, i loved the book, the plot, everything! ♡♡♡
I loved the slow burn& closed burn Romance!! I just loveeee Closed Door Romances so much better! 😭🤌🏻🫶🏻
THIS BOOK IS A 100% RECOMMENDATION TO Y'ALL!! ♡♡
TROPES:
♥︎ Grumpy×Sunshine
♠︎ Ex-Military guy
♥︎ Fire Fighter
♠︎ Billionaire family
♥︎ Single Mom × her cute 4 year old son
♠︎ Found Family
♥︎ Friends×Lovers
♠︎ Fake Relationship
♥︎ She fell first but he fell harder!
♠︎ Hurt×Comfort
♥︎ Closed Door Romance ♥︎♥︎♥︎♥︎
(Can't remember some but most of them are these^^)
Wow— definitely did not see that coming!! ♥︎♥︎
I loved loved lovedddd this book!! ♡♡♡
Firstly, CREW YOU AMAZING BALL OF SUNSHINE & LIFE OF EVERY PARTY!!! I LOVED YOU! STILL DO!! THE CUTEST (realest) 4 year old!! 😭😭🤌🏻🤌🏻 you made me laugh so hard & also get emo! 😭🫶🏻
Ok and then going onto— Ward & Lyndi— you guys were amazing! The slow burn was sooo gooddd!! ♥︎
Loved the other characters too!!
Would've liked a more extended epi, and seeing her actually confronting her mom about hiding her dad's family from her— but all in all, i loved the book, the plot, everything! ♡♡♡
I loved the slow burn& closed burn Romance!! I just loveeee Closed Door Romances so much better! 😭🤌🏻🫶🏻
THIS BOOK IS A 100% RECOMMENDATION TO Y'ALL!! ♡♡
TROPES:
♥︎ Grumpy×Sunshine
♠︎ Ex-Military guy
♥︎ Fire Fighter
♠︎ Billionaire family
♥︎ Single Mom × her cute 4 year old son
♠︎ Found Family
♥︎ Friends×Lovers
♠︎ Fake Relationship
♥︎ She fell first but he fell harder!
♠︎ Hurt×Comfort
♥︎ Closed Door Romance ♥︎♥︎♥︎♥︎
(Can't remember some but most of them are these^^)
January 30, 2023
Um, yes! This was such a cute rom-com! As a mom of a young boy, this got me right in the heart! The MC, Lyndi is a single mom to a sweet little boy. Enter Ward, who is a grumpy fireman with a story to tell. I love how the background for both characters is true and handled with love. I loved every minute of their journey together, and I laughed a lot, especially while connecting with Lyndi and all her mom moments (Oh, the grocery store and the leg cross!). I was even pleasantly surprised with a twist came and I was on the edge of my seat. While you may know where this story is heading, the path there was super entertaining and not always predictable! I really enjoyed the style of writing, and I would love to read more by her. This is a definite read if you love grumpy sunshine, laugh out loud banter, and a good old HEA story! (Can we get a story with Maddie or Caleb next?!? I am SO hooked on these characters!)
February 9, 2023
What a great story! The characters were great, the message was heartwarming, and romance was top notch!
Have you ever read single parent stories and disliked how unrealistic they seemed? Look no further! I don’t have kids of my own, but I can only imagine the author was drawing from personal experience when I writing all of the antics the MC’s little boy got into 😂 it’s a good thing he was adorable! Between Lyndi’s struggles as a mom and Ward's experiences in war, this wasn’t a super fluffy, all sunshine and rainbows romcom. But that’s why I loved it! There were some moments that had me near tears and others that had me right on the edge of my seat, but it wasn’t lacking at all in the funny moments and the swoony romance. And now I’m definitely rooting for a certain pair of office rivals to have their story next 👀
I received an advanced copy from the author, all thoughts are my own.
Have you ever read single parent stories and disliked how unrealistic they seemed? Look no further! I don’t have kids of my own, but I can only imagine the author was drawing from personal experience when I writing all of the antics the MC’s little boy got into 😂 it’s a good thing he was adorable! Between Lyndi’s struggles as a mom and Ward's experiences in war, this wasn’t a super fluffy, all sunshine and rainbows romcom. But that’s why I loved it! There were some moments that had me near tears and others that had me right on the edge of my seat, but it wasn’t lacking at all in the funny moments and the swoony romance. And now I’m definitely rooting for a certain pair of office rivals to have their story next 👀
I received an advanced copy from the author, all thoughts are my own.
January 23, 2023
This is your quintessential rom-com. Single mom, working hard to support her and her little boy; who, by the way, is the cutest most mischievous almost 5 year old you will meet! She falls for the grump ex-military/firefighter that doesn't want love, let alone a kid! When fate keeps interviewing and bringing these two together sparks fly.
This is a romance that has a great build up and nothing but some innocent thoughts and sweet kisses with a HEA.
I really appreciate the realness in this book. I love that Ward discussed his post-war trauma and (without giving too much away) really leans on Lyndi and Collins. I also appreciate that Lyndi didn’t just fall for a billionaire given her financial troubles.
TW: rejection from parental figures, prison, verbal abuse, physical abuse (on the page) and mental health struggles.
I received a eARC in exchange for a complete and honest review. Novel will be available January 31, 2023
This is a romance that has a great build up and nothing but some innocent thoughts and sweet kisses with a HEA.
I really appreciate the realness in this book. I love that Ward discussed his post-war trauma and (without giving too much away) really leans on Lyndi and Collins. I also appreciate that Lyndi didn’t just fall for a billionaire given her financial troubles.
TW: rejection from parental figures, prison, verbal abuse, physical abuse (on the page) and mental health struggles.
I received a eARC in exchange for a complete and honest review. Novel will be available January 31, 2023
September 24, 2023
2.25⭐️
Empezó bien, pero conforme avanzaba la historia, se estancó.
Por lo regular cuando en el libro hay madres/padres solteros me gusta que los niños estén presentes en la historia, pero en este deberían quitar escenas del Crew, son un desastre; por ejemplo:
-Cuando él niño hace llamadas a los bomberos sin que haya un incendio y Lyndi se sorprende de que la vayan a multar.
-En el super se la pasa rompiendo cosas y Lyndi se hace la loca y no paga.
-Cuando se hace del baño en los juegos, etc.
Empezó bien, pero conforme avanzaba la historia, se estancó.
Por lo regular cuando en el libro hay madres/padres solteros me gusta que los niños estén presentes en la historia, pero en este deberían quitar escenas del Crew, son un desastre; por ejemplo:
-Cuando él niño hace llamadas a los bomberos sin que haya un incendio y Lyndi se sorprende de que la vayan a multar.
-En el super se la pasa rompiendo cosas y Lyndi se hace la loca y no paga.
-Cuando se hace del baño en los juegos, etc.
May 14, 2024
What a cheesy and cute rom com!
It was slow to begin with and I had a hard time keeping up a good pace but once I really got into the book, I enjoyed it!
It was definitely cheesy but SO cute. I loved the single mom and 4 year old aspect. Being a mom is SO hard but being a single mom, now I’m sure it’s such a challenge in many many many more ways.
The slow burn between Lyndi and Ward was preeeetty dang slow but once got going, it was sweet and perfect for them and this story.
Lyndi and Ward both had pretty complex backgrounds that was interesting to read about and definitely made me feel for them and their traumas. Being able to feel the emotions of a character you read about is a win for me!!
If you are wanting something light and cheesy and cute, read this sweet rom com!
It was slow to begin with and I had a hard time keeping up a good pace but once I really got into the book, I enjoyed it!
It was definitely cheesy but SO cute. I loved the single mom and 4 year old aspect. Being a mom is SO hard but being a single mom, now I’m sure it’s such a challenge in many many many more ways.
The slow burn between Lyndi and Ward was preeeetty dang slow but once got going, it was sweet and perfect for them and this story.
Lyndi and Ward both had pretty complex backgrounds that was interesting to read about and definitely made me feel for them and their traumas. Being able to feel the emotions of a character you read about is a win for me!!
If you are wanting something light and cheesy and cute, read this sweet rom com!
January 19, 2024
This is the first book I've read from Jenessa and it definitely won't be the last! I love how she perfectly portrayed a rambunctious 4 year old and how much mothers truly go through in raising them. I love that this book had laugh out loud moments, moments that were so relatable, moments to make you swoon and even some suspense.
I love that Ward was such a stand up guy who was dealing with his own demons, but was able to find light in Lyndi. I love that he was her protector and that he was there to build her up. I love that he saw her worth and that he wasn't afraid to tell her.
I love that Lyndi did everything she could to give Crew a wonderful life despite not having a huge support system around her. She was relatable and easy to like.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read more from Jenessa!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2 (Non descriptive making out)
Zero Swearing (a couple swear words dashed out/cut off)
Dual POV
Fake Dating
Single Mom
A hint of Romantic Suspense
Opposites attract
Workplace romance
I love that Ward was such a stand up guy who was dealing with his own demons, but was able to find light in Lyndi. I love that he was her protector and that he was there to build her up. I love that he saw her worth and that he wasn't afraid to tell her.
I love that Lyndi did everything she could to give Crew a wonderful life despite not having a huge support system around her. She was relatable and easy to like.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read more from Jenessa!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2 (Non descriptive making out)
Zero Swearing (a couple swear words dashed out/cut off)
Dual POV
Fake Dating
Single Mom
A hint of Romantic Suspense
Opposites attract
Workplace romance
January 29, 2023
This book was just a bundle of sunshine!!!
I laughed so much while reading this, but also get empathetic for all those single moms out there. Ward was something else. Man oh man I loved him. He and Lyndi deserve a happily ever after for sure.
SPOILERS BELOW!!!
I NEED an extended epilogue of their wedding, and then like 5 years later. They are the cutest couple.
I laughed so much while reading this, but also get empathetic for all those single moms out there. Ward was something else. Man oh man I loved him. He and Lyndi deserve a happily ever after for sure.
SPOILERS BELOW!!!
I NEED an extended epilogue of their wedding, and then like 5 years later. They are the cutest couple.
February 17, 2023
Honest representation of kids being rambunctious
If it’s possible to be exhausted after reading, this book did that for me. That little boy was such a terror, in a not trying to be a terror way, that I felt exhausted by his antics. You can tell a real mom wrote the story being able to lay out all the ugly side of raising kids and not just the good.
The title of the book says exactly how I felt about the book, not how I saw that going. It was interesting and I loved the family she found. Had a great ending. My attention just wasn’t kept throughout the book. It was honest and yet still had a fairytale quality to it, especially by the end.
Rating: PG, clean
If it’s possible to be exhausted after reading, this book did that for me. That little boy was such a terror, in a not trying to be a terror way, that I felt exhausted by his antics. You can tell a real mom wrote the story being able to lay out all the ugly side of raising kids and not just the good.
The title of the book says exactly how I felt about the book, not how I saw that going. It was interesting and I loved the family she found. Had a great ending. My attention just wasn’t kept throughout the book. It was honest and yet still had a fairytale quality to it, especially by the end.
Rating: PG, clean
October 8, 2023
This book was really cute!! Only thing stopping it from being rated higher is that the main character is 24 and keeps calling TikTok, tic tac which was driving me crazy. And that the little kid in it was also driving me nuts hahaha
January 6, 2023
I received an ARC of this book and was able to read it early. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It’s a cute read about Lyndi who is a single mother and her adorable son Crew. At times Crew was a little too much for me but he had his good moments so it evened out.
Lyndi was a really fun main character. I loved her personality and how fiercely she loved her son. I also loved how hard she worked to provide for her family.
Ward is the firefighter she falls for. Their chance meetings at the beginning were really funny and I really enjoyed the twos chemistry and friendship before they got together. I love how he cared for Crew and his nieces. Overall I really liked his character.
I read this book in one afternoon so if that doesn’t tell you it’s entertaining I don’t know what will! I laughed and was emotional throughout it and overall it was a really cute romance!
Lyndi was a really fun main character. I loved her personality and how fiercely she loved her son. I also loved how hard she worked to provide for her family.
Ward is the firefighter she falls for. Their chance meetings at the beginning were really funny and I really enjoyed the twos chemistry and friendship before they got together. I love how he cared for Crew and his nieces. Overall I really liked his character.
I read this book in one afternoon so if that doesn’t tell you it’s entertaining I don’t know what will! I laughed and was emotional throughout it and overall it was a really cute romance!
April 14, 2024
super cute premise (i am a sucker for single parent romances) but the writing felt juvenile and incomplete at times
dnf
November 13, 202420% DNF. I suppose show, don’t tell is only a suggestion.
March 21, 2025
Fun romcom!
I would say book 2 is better as a romcom but Ward, Lyndi, a d Crew are fantastic! Don't miss this one!
I would say book 2 is better as a romcom but Ward, Lyndi, a d Crew are fantastic! Don't miss this one!
June 26, 2025
It was pretty good, I have no complaints
March 31, 2023
Eran todos los tropes necesarios para un buen libro y fue desastroso.
Se me hizo que pasaba todo rápido y de la nada. Los personajes bastante meh.
Se me hizo que pasaba todo rápido y de la nada. Los personajes bastante meh.
January 30, 2023
This was a fun RomCom. I love how fiercely Lyndi loves her son and how she grows to understand her self worth. Ward is a great MMC with a lot of trauma to work through.
I’d recommend who likes a grumpy MC, firefighter RomComs, and RomComs with a little depth to them.
Thanks to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
I’d recommend who likes a grumpy MC, firefighter RomComs, and RomComs with a little depth to them.
Thanks to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
June 15, 2023
This book was at once relatable to all the moms out there with four year olds. The author has done her research on 4yo boys bc I am currently living some of these exact scenarios with my own 4yo son. This book is about two broken people finding healing with the help from each other. This book makes you feel things! I laughed and cried. The romance felt genuine and I loved reading it develop. The side characters added a lot too. There are knight in shining armor moments, but there are also I’m strong and I can slay this dragon myself moments too. It’s sometimes cheesy and crazy but it was fun to read!
SPOILERS and book notes:
What a relatable opening line: “Are there detention centers for four-year-olds?” I have a four year old so I have a feeling this book is going to be very familiar haha. And I was right bc my son has done every single one of these actions: “I knew it was going to be a day when he peed the bed. We’ve only been in the store for thirty minutes and so far he’s already accidentally knocked a can of paint off a shelf and tried to play hide-n-seek behind the towers of toilet paper.” I’m sorry there are just too many relatable sentences in this book that I practically highlighted the whole book haha. But here is one more: “Crew, honey,” I say, my voice so sweet it’s practically dripping with the kind of sugar he can’t resist. But I’m not new to this planet or this child, so this only has a fifty percent chance of working.” After the sweetly nicely asking we have “threats as the next item in our arsenal” then reverse psychology as the last haha. I love this description: “My face is so hot it could heat the earth if the sun ever needed a break.” Not only did he save her boy from the fridge in the store but he secretly bought all the damaged after she left! That is the definition of a selfless sweet man. I feel bad for Ward’s ptsd. This sentences he thinks makes me feel good about the times I feel in my anger and speak with respect.: “Watching that woman with her little boy today was the first time I’d felt the darkness lift in weeks. She could have yelled at her child—no one would have blamed her—but instead she held him close and spoke to him with respect. Like he was her treasure. It reminded me that there is good in the world.” I love the grumpy/sunshine trope! Haha: “But I didn’t put on thigh-crushing, soul-sucking jeans and force my child into socks and shoes just to be disregarded like that.” As the fire alarms go off the chief tells ward: “look for the good today, ward.” That is a good thought to have starting your day. Wards ptsd is so sad. The guilt and fear and emotions he holds on to so tightly! But he finally cried and let it all out with Lyndi and it was a beautiful moment. Haha and then crew has them eating Mac n cheese for breakfast. Me and my four year old have totally done that before. I love that ward is a secret astronomer. I love constellations and looking at the stars. There is a Cinderella moment with him seeing her in a beautiful dress hehe. Poor Maddie and her self body image. I can totally relate and it makes me feel sad for her and her beautiful self. I liked that ward had to realize he had judged his parents wrongly too. That they are allowed to change their greedy ways too. But they still make mistakes and need to grow too. Holy moly that epilogue/proposal was the best. Crew asked for a daddy and then Ward says “screw it” then rushes to his room, then while she tries to console crew, ward returns down on one knee and proposes right there in the kitchen. Aw! It was so cute!
SPOILERS and book notes:
What a relatable opening line: “Are there detention centers for four-year-olds?” I have a four year old so I have a feeling this book is going to be very familiar haha. And I was right bc my son has done every single one of these actions: “I knew it was going to be a day when he peed the bed. We’ve only been in the store for thirty minutes and so far he’s already accidentally knocked a can of paint off a shelf and tried to play hide-n-seek behind the towers of toilet paper.” I’m sorry there are just too many relatable sentences in this book that I practically highlighted the whole book haha. But here is one more: “Crew, honey,” I say, my voice so sweet it’s practically dripping with the kind of sugar he can’t resist. But I’m not new to this planet or this child, so this only has a fifty percent chance of working.” After the sweetly nicely asking we have “threats as the next item in our arsenal” then reverse psychology as the last haha. I love this description: “My face is so hot it could heat the earth if the sun ever needed a break.” Not only did he save her boy from the fridge in the store but he secretly bought all the damaged after she left! That is the definition of a selfless sweet man. I feel bad for Ward’s ptsd. This sentences he thinks makes me feel good about the times I feel in my anger and speak with respect.: “Watching that woman with her little boy today was the first time I’d felt the darkness lift in weeks. She could have yelled at her child—no one would have blamed her—but instead she held him close and spoke to him with respect. Like he was her treasure. It reminded me that there is good in the world.” I love the grumpy/sunshine trope! Haha: “But I didn’t put on thigh-crushing, soul-sucking jeans and force my child into socks and shoes just to be disregarded like that.” As the fire alarms go off the chief tells ward: “look for the good today, ward.” That is a good thought to have starting your day. Wards ptsd is so sad. The guilt and fear and emotions he holds on to so tightly! But he finally cried and let it all out with Lyndi and it was a beautiful moment. Haha and then crew has them eating Mac n cheese for breakfast. Me and my four year old have totally done that before. I love that ward is a secret astronomer. I love constellations and looking at the stars. There is a Cinderella moment with him seeing her in a beautiful dress hehe. Poor Maddie and her self body image. I can totally relate and it makes me feel sad for her and her beautiful self. I liked that ward had to realize he had judged his parents wrongly too. That they are allowed to change their greedy ways too. But they still make mistakes and need to grow too. Holy moly that epilogue/proposal was the best. Crew asked for a daddy and then Ward says “screw it” then rushes to his room, then while she tries to console crew, ward returns down on one knee and proposes right there in the kitchen. Aw! It was so cute!
February 12, 2023
I want whatever is happening to keep happening. The last time I talked to a man this long was in the drive-through at Wendy’s. And I had to pay for that conversation.
Everybody wants the world to be a better place, but no one is willing to break the mold and fix it themselves.
“When a real man finds a woman beautiful, he shouldn’t have to say anything. She should be able to see it all over his face.”
“Stop letting your insecurities talk you out of doing things for yourself.”
Ward’s lips tilt up at the corner and dang it. If the man knew what his smile does to a woman, he’d use it a lot more.
“Beauty like that should never be taken for granted.”
“I’d pull the moon from the sky and fill your house with stars if I could.” His voice drops. “You deserve all that and more.”
Yet here I am, throwing a pity party, complete with my BFF Jess from New Girl and a pan of brownies.
“Not everyone needs a Prince Charming to swoop them off their feet and rescue them from their demons. Sometimes we want to do it ourselves.”
“If you’re lost, you can always be found.”
“You can’t let other people determine your worth. You do the work for yourself, not for someone else.”
Lyndi:
Eating carbs and forgetting to fold the laundry aren’t my only talents. I’m also proficient at speaking without thinking. Which is how I ended up confessing my love to a stranger at the grocery store. The same stranger who also happens to be a firefighter-a very grumpy one-for the exact fire station I owe a debt to. I didn’t mean to embarrass the man. And I certainly didn’t mean to make him famous. That was a happy coincidence. He could use some humor in his life. But when I decided to be my own Queen and take back my life, I didn’t expect fake dating the grump to be a part of it. Fake boyfriends aren’t supposed to come with real feelings.
Ward
Rescuing a little boy at the grocery store was just a normal day for me. Except usually I’m in gear and getting aid to do so. Noticing his mo, was not part of the norm. I saw stuff in the war no one wants to see. The kind of stuff you don’t bring up on a first date. Which is why I haven’t. Dated. I mean I’ve made it clear that Iwant to be left alone. But it doesn’t stop my mom from setting me up with women I have no interest in. I’m certainly not interested in Lyndi. She’s a single mom whose carelessness made me famous. Okay, so I can’t blame that all on her-as much as I’d like to. But she’s there when I need her. And, apparently, I need a fake girlfriend. My best friend insists that the heart dies in the war. Thenwhy does it beat so fast when Lyndi is around?
What an adorable, cute, sweet, little pain and heartwarming rom-com. The pain that both Ward and Lyndi went through was horrible, relatable, and believable. I love the chemistry between Ward and Lyndi. Crew was adorable and a fireball. I love that Lyndi gained parts of her family back. I have adored every story that Jenessa Fayeth has written involving this one. 5 stars.
Everybody wants the world to be a better place, but no one is willing to break the mold and fix it themselves.
“When a real man finds a woman beautiful, he shouldn’t have to say anything. She should be able to see it all over his face.”
“Stop letting your insecurities talk you out of doing things for yourself.”
Ward’s lips tilt up at the corner and dang it. If the man knew what his smile does to a woman, he’d use it a lot more.
“Beauty like that should never be taken for granted.”
“I’d pull the moon from the sky and fill your house with stars if I could.” His voice drops. “You deserve all that and more.”
Yet here I am, throwing a pity party, complete with my BFF Jess from New Girl and a pan of brownies.
“Not everyone needs a Prince Charming to swoop them off their feet and rescue them from their demons. Sometimes we want to do it ourselves.”
“If you’re lost, you can always be found.”
“You can’t let other people determine your worth. You do the work for yourself, not for someone else.”
Lyndi:
Eating carbs and forgetting to fold the laundry aren’t my only talents. I’m also proficient at speaking without thinking. Which is how I ended up confessing my love to a stranger at the grocery store. The same stranger who also happens to be a firefighter-a very grumpy one-for the exact fire station I owe a debt to. I didn’t mean to embarrass the man. And I certainly didn’t mean to make him famous. That was a happy coincidence. He could use some humor in his life. But when I decided to be my own Queen and take back my life, I didn’t expect fake dating the grump to be a part of it. Fake boyfriends aren’t supposed to come with real feelings.
Ward
Rescuing a little boy at the grocery store was just a normal day for me. Except usually I’m in gear and getting aid to do so. Noticing his mo, was not part of the norm. I saw stuff in the war no one wants to see. The kind of stuff you don’t bring up on a first date. Which is why I haven’t. Dated. I mean I’ve made it clear that Iwant to be left alone. But it doesn’t stop my mom from setting me up with women I have no interest in. I’m certainly not interested in Lyndi. She’s a single mom whose carelessness made me famous. Okay, so I can’t blame that all on her-as much as I’d like to. But she’s there when I need her. And, apparently, I need a fake girlfriend. My best friend insists that the heart dies in the war. Thenwhy does it beat so fast when Lyndi is around?
What an adorable, cute, sweet, little pain and heartwarming rom-com. The pain that both Ward and Lyndi went through was horrible, relatable, and believable. I love the chemistry between Ward and Lyndi. Crew was adorable and a fireball. I love that Lyndi gained parts of her family back. I have adored every story that Jenessa Fayeth has written involving this one. 5 stars.
October 29, 2023
ɴᴏᴛ ʜᴏᴡ ɪ ꜱᴀᴡ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ɢᴏɪɴɢ
⬥︎In this book we follow the story of Lindy a single mom with a hurricane for a son, Crew. Lindy is on the verge of a nervous breakdown when Crew gets trapped inside a supermarket fridge throwing a tantrum, when a perfect stranger helps this ready mom dig a hole to hide in it.
⬥︎After her meet cute at the supermarket Lindy didn't expect to see the badass hunk who helped her through one of the most embarrassing moments of her life again until Crew decides to call the fire department while his mom takes a nap and Ward shows up at her house asking where the fire is.
⬥︎I've never read a book where the female character is a single mom before, I've read many with single dads, but never the mom. And it was a breath of fresh air!
⬥︎As someone who deals with children on a daily basis, reading about Crew made me feel seen! In books children are always described as smart, nice and never much trouble. But Crew, is a child just like the ones I deal with everyday. He throws tantrums and gives Lindy a hard time. But he can also be sweet, caring and the best son in the world.
⬥︎"𝘾𝙧𝙚𝙬 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣"
⬥︎Lindy does everything for her son and tries to give him what she lacked growing up, a parent love. Even though she sometimes feels like what she does isn't enough or that she is the worst mother in the world, she doesn't give up. She is a force of nature and is rarely shaken by the challenges she experiences.
⬥︎On the other hand we have Ward who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder after experiencing horrors in the war. As the story unfolds, Ward realizes that he can't always save everyone and that some things are beyond his control.
⬥︎This book is not just about a single mom going after her happily ever after. It addresses important issues like post-traumatic stress, emotional violence and parental abandonment, and I loved the way the author did it.
⬥︎I also enjoyed seeing Lindy and Ward's attraction turn into a solid relationship.
⬥︎If you like chaotic characters that make you laugh this book is for you ♡.
⬥︎In this book we follow the story of Lindy a single mom with a hurricane for a son, Crew. Lindy is on the verge of a nervous breakdown when Crew gets trapped inside a supermarket fridge throwing a tantrum, when a perfect stranger helps this ready mom dig a hole to hide in it.
⬥︎After her meet cute at the supermarket Lindy didn't expect to see the badass hunk who helped her through one of the most embarrassing moments of her life again until Crew decides to call the fire department while his mom takes a nap and Ward shows up at her house asking where the fire is.
⬥︎I've never read a book where the female character is a single mom before, I've read many with single dads, but never the mom. And it was a breath of fresh air!
⬥︎As someone who deals with children on a daily basis, reading about Crew made me feel seen! In books children are always described as smart, nice and never much trouble. But Crew, is a child just like the ones I deal with everyday. He throws tantrums and gives Lindy a hard time. But he can also be sweet, caring and the best son in the world.
⬥︎"𝘾𝙧𝙚𝙬 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣"
⬥︎Lindy does everything for her son and tries to give him what she lacked growing up, a parent love. Even though she sometimes feels like what she does isn't enough or that she is the worst mother in the world, she doesn't give up. She is a force of nature and is rarely shaken by the challenges she experiences.
⬥︎On the other hand we have Ward who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder after experiencing horrors in the war. As the story unfolds, Ward realizes that he can't always save everyone and that some things are beyond his control.
⬥︎This book is not just about a single mom going after her happily ever after. It addresses important issues like post-traumatic stress, emotional violence and parental abandonment, and I loved the way the author did it.
⬥︎I also enjoyed seeing Lindy and Ward's attraction turn into a solid relationship.
⬥︎If you like chaotic characters that make you laugh this book is for you ♡.
June 10, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Ward Preston & Lyndi Hill
- Relatable meetcute (kids 🤷🏻♀️)
- Grump & sunshine
- Slow burn
- Fake dating
- Moody, struggling, shy, thoughtful, ex military, fire fighter MMC
- Sassy, silly, patient, kind, single mom FMC
- Found family
- Child shenanigans, oh sweet Crew
- The best, best friend in the world, Maddie 😭🫶🏻😂
- Healing after trauma, learning to open themselves up and feel feelings
- Protective MMC
- She comforts him through while working through his trauma from war
- Crazy family & psycho exes
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Ward and Lyndi are hilarious, sweet, and heart warming. Both MCs desperately need someone to take care of them. They are both carrying such heavy burdens and under so much stress. Neither of them are looking for their person, but both need someone to shoulder those burdens. When they find each other, they take care of each other so well 💕🫶🏻
Crew is a lot. Prayers for Lyndi’s sanity. I’ve been a pre-k teacher, toddler teacher, nanny, and mom. I’ve met children like Crew and keeping them safe is no easy task. Lyndi parents Crew with so much grace and patience, despite constantly feeling like she’s failing her child. I love how patient Ward is too. He talks to him with respect and plays with him the way kids need. I loved all three of their relationships together so much. Crew was included in everything and that made my heart so happy.
Throughout the book there is also tangible character development. Lyndi sees where she self sabotaged and remedies it to the best of her abilities. Ward recognizes that how’s he’s coping with all his trauma from the war is actually killing him and making him so much worse.
Overall, I loved the authors voice and story telling. I loved the story. I was worried about the psycho exes and I had a right to be 🫣. I was on my toes in the second half of the book and I couldn’t put it down! I also thought all the side characters were amazing and I’m so excited for the other books!!
Descriptive kissing/making out, no cussing, innuendo
CW: abusive ex, PTSD from war, (message for more spoiler CW)
Songs:
“Like this” by Jake Scott
“Dying man” by Morgan Wallen
“Dress” by Taylor Swift
“Don’t let me” by Jake Scott
“Enchanted” by Taylor Swift
“Say you won’t let go” by James Arthur
“Lonesome” by Sabrina Carpenter
“Yours if you want it” by Rascal Flatts
“There she goes” by Benson Boone
“Close to you” by Kenzie
Ward Preston & Lyndi Hill
- Relatable meetcute (kids 🤷🏻♀️)
- Grump & sunshine
- Slow burn
- Fake dating
- Moody, struggling, shy, thoughtful, ex military, fire fighter MMC
- Sassy, silly, patient, kind, single mom FMC
- Found family
- Child shenanigans, oh sweet Crew
- The best, best friend in the world, Maddie 😭🫶🏻😂
- Healing after trauma, learning to open themselves up and feel feelings
- Protective MMC
- She comforts him through while working through his trauma from war
- Crazy family & psycho exes
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Ward and Lyndi are hilarious, sweet, and heart warming. Both MCs desperately need someone to take care of them. They are both carrying such heavy burdens and under so much stress. Neither of them are looking for their person, but both need someone to shoulder those burdens. When they find each other, they take care of each other so well 💕🫶🏻
Crew is a lot. Prayers for Lyndi’s sanity. I’ve been a pre-k teacher, toddler teacher, nanny, and mom. I’ve met children like Crew and keeping them safe is no easy task. Lyndi parents Crew with so much grace and patience, despite constantly feeling like she’s failing her child. I love how patient Ward is too. He talks to him with respect and plays with him the way kids need. I loved all three of their relationships together so much. Crew was included in everything and that made my heart so happy.
Throughout the book there is also tangible character development. Lyndi sees where she self sabotaged and remedies it to the best of her abilities. Ward recognizes that how’s he’s coping with all his trauma from the war is actually killing him and making him so much worse.
Overall, I loved the authors voice and story telling. I loved the story. I was worried about the psycho exes and I had a right to be 🫣. I was on my toes in the second half of the book and I couldn’t put it down! I also thought all the side characters were amazing and I’m so excited for the other books!!
Descriptive kissing/making out, no cussing, innuendo
CW: abusive ex, PTSD from war, (message for more spoiler CW)
Songs:
“Like this” by Jake Scott
“Dying man” by Morgan Wallen
“Dress” by Taylor Swift
“Don’t let me” by Jake Scott
“Enchanted” by Taylor Swift
“Say you won’t let go” by James Arthur
“Lonesome” by Sabrina Carpenter
“Yours if you want it” by Rascal Flatts
“There she goes” by Benson Boone
“Close to you” by Kenzie
July 28, 2023
My Review
This was a first time read of author Jenessa Fayeth. I was not disappointed! From the cover and title that drew me in to the beginning scene...this was a treat! The characters are well written, the content touches on real world problems...crime, single parenthood, poverty, self-esteem, war and it's aftermath...Fayeth has a well thought-out, funny at times, serious at times story that I loved. Also, I hope there's more hot fireman stories in this series. Happy reading, friends.
Book description: Lyndi
Eating carbs and forgetting to fold the laundry aren’t my only talents. I'm also proficient at speaking without thinking. Which is how I ended up confessing my love to a stranger at the grocery store.
The same stranger who also happens to be a firefighter—a very grumpy one—for the exact fire station I owe a debt to.
I didn’t mean to embarrass the man, and I certainly didn’t mean to make him famous. That was a happy coincidence.
He could use some humor in his life.
But when I decided to be my own queen and take back my life, I didn’t expect fake dating the grump to be a part of it.
Fake boyfriends aren’t supposed to come with real feelings.
Moving on is harder than I thought.
Ward
Rescuing a little boy at the grocery store was just a normal day for me. Except usually I’m in gear and getting paid to do so.
Noticing his mom was not part of the norm.
I saw stuff in the war no one wants to see. The kind of stuff you don’t bring up on a first date. Which is why I haven’t. Dated, I mean.
I’ve made it clear that I want to be left alone, but it doesn’t stop my mom from setting me up with women I have no interest in.
I’m certainly not interested in Lyndi. She’s a single mom, whose carelessness made me famous.
Okay, so I can’t blame that all on her—as much as I’d like to.
But she’s there when I need her, and apparently, I need a fake girlfriend.
My best friend insists my heart died in the war, then why does it beat so fast when Lyndi is around?
This was a first time read of author Jenessa Fayeth. I was not disappointed! From the cover and title that drew me in to the beginning scene...this was a treat! The characters are well written, the content touches on real world problems...crime, single parenthood, poverty, self-esteem, war and it's aftermath...Fayeth has a well thought-out, funny at times, serious at times story that I loved. Also, I hope there's more hot fireman stories in this series. Happy reading, friends.
Book description: Lyndi
Eating carbs and forgetting to fold the laundry aren’t my only talents. I'm also proficient at speaking without thinking. Which is how I ended up confessing my love to a stranger at the grocery store.
The same stranger who also happens to be a firefighter—a very grumpy one—for the exact fire station I owe a debt to.
I didn’t mean to embarrass the man, and I certainly didn’t mean to make him famous. That was a happy coincidence.
He could use some humor in his life.
But when I decided to be my own queen and take back my life, I didn’t expect fake dating the grump to be a part of it.
Fake boyfriends aren’t supposed to come with real feelings.
Moving on is harder than I thought.
Ward
Rescuing a little boy at the grocery store was just a normal day for me. Except usually I’m in gear and getting paid to do so.
Noticing his mom was not part of the norm.
I saw stuff in the war no one wants to see. The kind of stuff you don’t bring up on a first date. Which is why I haven’t. Dated, I mean.
I’ve made it clear that I want to be left alone, but it doesn’t stop my mom from setting me up with women I have no interest in.
I’m certainly not interested in Lyndi. She’s a single mom, whose carelessness made me famous.
Okay, so I can’t blame that all on her—as much as I’d like to.
But she’s there when I need her, and apparently, I need a fake girlfriend.
My best friend insists my heart died in the war, then why does it beat so fast when Lyndi is around?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews