Where We Belong

Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers #8

by Claudia Y. Burgoa

USA TODAY Bestselling Author Claudia Burgoa brings us the eight book in the Paradise Bay Billionaire brothers.

Genres: Friends To Lovers, Small Town Romance, Audiobook, Family, Slow Burn, Contemporary Romance, Romance

Unknown Binding

Published November 7, 2023

About the author

Claudia is an award-winning, USA Today bestselling author.
She writes alluring, thrilling stories about complicated women and the men who take their breath away.
She lives in Denver, Colorado with her husband and her youngest two children. She has a sweet Bichon, Macey, who thinks she's the ruler of the house. She's only partially right.
When Claudia is not writing, you can find her reading, knitting, or just hanging out with her family.
At night, she likes to binge watch shows with her equally geeky husband.

Instagram: http://bit.ly/ClaudiasIG
TikTok: https://bit.ly/CBstiktok
Bloggers/Influencers: https://geni.us/CBBloggers
Newsletter: https://geni.us/CBNewsletter

Reviews

[Christi (christireadsalot) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Where We Belong is part of the Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers series, but I read this as a standalone and wasn’t lost at all. This book sold me on the tropes: single dad hero, friends to lovers, small town, brother’s best friend, she’s been pining for years, angsty.

Ben is a single dad to his 3-year old daughter. We see he’s been in Cory’s life for years as he’s best friends with her brother. Cory has crushed on Ben for forever and he’s secretly been into her as well. But his life definitely got complicated and while trying to do what’s best for his daughter, he hurt Cory and unintentionally pushed her away. Now we see them coming back into one another’s lives and trying to figure out how to make it work. I did like seeing how Ben knows he messed up and is determined to do whatever it takes to win Cory. The audiobook narrators really did their dang thing with this one and brought all the emotion and angst the story called for: Jason Clarke (always a yes for me) and Mackenzie Cartwright.

I received an audio ALC from Forever and Always PR, all thoughts in this review are my own.

[Van · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is not my thing, a really weak Hero.
It’s not very romantic and they behave like teenagers, H is a doctor, a former player and of course a single dad,
She could have been a really good heroine because she finally had enough and leave, even if she loved his little girl, and start a relationship with other man, she travels, works and doesn’t look to me like she feels guilty about it, but after months they start to text, yes text, and it feels like they can communicate better through texts than in person…
Finally they see each other again and start a relation… doesn’t make sense, she is angry, she isn’t.
I feel like she never expressed how he make her feel all those years, how much pain he caused her, nothing , they don’t talk about nothing! He doesn’t grovel, he just want a new start, how convenient…
But the most important issue with this book is the Hero: he doesn’t love her, you can’t convince me, I didn’t see anywhere his love, when she is with the OM he is not possessive, jealous… nada!
Not romantic and weak hero, too fasted
The three stars is for her trying to move on with OM and going to Paris with him! My kind of Hero would take a plane to France…
Not for me

[Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) · Rating 5 out of 5]

FINALLY!!!! Oh gosh Benedict and Cory have been breaking my heart slowly since book 1! You could feel the love between these two and I am so happy that Benedict finally said no more and fought for the HEA they both deserved!

It was not an easy battle but Benedict didn’t give up and he showed the Spearman’s that he was all in! Cory also showed her stubborn side because after years of heartache she wasn’t going to be fooled by his charm. Both had their work cut out for them.

These Spearman’s have had my heart for so long but I’m so relieved to see them all find their place and find love. It’s been a tough emotional journey but ending it with Cory and Benedict is the most beautiful finale I could imagine!

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

FINALLY Cory and Ben get their HEA!

Claudia did a fantastic job of bringing this series to a close. I am so glad that Ben and Cory have finally gotten their HEA, and Bernie has someone in her life as a mother figure who truly loves her how a mother should.

I had the pleasure of listening to the audiobook version of this book, and I have to say that Jason Clarke & Mackenzie Cartwright did a fabulous job bringing Ben and Cory to life. If you can listen to audiobooks, I highly recommend choosing this one.

𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒎𝒚 𝒇𝒖𝒍𝒍 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewWWB



**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here:  https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic

[Laura Fabian · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC kindly provided fir the author in exchange for an honest review

I've been waiting to read Cory since this series began, and since Claudia Y. Burgoa gave us the Christmas novel and I knew that her love interest was Benedict I've been even more excited, and although I didn't know what to expect from their plot, I have to say that Claudia gave me everything I wanted from these two, maybe a little more suffering, but I think Cory & Ben's story worked out much better thanks to all that pain and lost opportunities they both had to face and overcome.

Cory was one of the characters that stole my heart the fastest in this series, the youngest of the Spearmans, a strong, independent, good-hearted girl who can't do anything without her other half, his twin Huxley, but behind his brave and determined image is a Cory with a broken heart, not only for Benedict, his older brother's best friend and whom she has been in love since always, if not also because of the complex family dynamics and the untimely death of her father, something that broke my heart to read, but at the same time, I really liked reading her determined to not accept crumbs of love from anyone, to seek her happiness and to fight to move forward.

Benedict has been a constant presence in Paradise Bay since his little Bernie came into his life: he changed all his plans, left his life of partying and casual enconunters, and moved to the Spearmans' place of residence so that his daughter could grow up close to the only loving family he ever knew, the problem is that all of this brought him even closer to Cory, his best friend's younger sister, who is completely off-limits, and with whom Ben can't help but fall more and more in love. But Ben is in a complicated situation, since his family life has never been simple and he is afraid of accepting his feelings for Cory and losing the love, support and respect of the Spearmans, and even when Ben's fear is completely valid, it breaks my heart to read how his fears make Cory feel, the ways in which Ben repeatedly breaks her heart and everything that happens in both of their lives when she decides to move on.

Cory & Ben have a very long history together that Claudia let us discover with small flashbacks and memories, a common project that Ben uses as an excuse to no let go of the opportunity to have her happy ending with Cory, and many traumas to overcome to finally be happy. Things are not easy for these two, but I think the author took their story in the right places with a Cory who is not going to make things easy for Ben and a man who is finally taking the reins of his life to have the family he always wanted.

❤️‍🩹Cory: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Benedict: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Plot: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Love story: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Secondary characters: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Universe: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Cover: 3/5
🌶️: 2/5

🇪🇸
ARC amablemente proporcionada por la autora a cambio de una reseña honesta

Llevo esperando leer a Cory desde que comenzó esta serie, y desde que Claudia Y. Burgoa nos regaló la novella navideña y supe que su interés amoroso era Benedict he estado aún más emocionada, y aunque no sabía qué esperar de su trama, tengo que decir que Claudia me dio todo lo que quería de estos dos, tal vez un poco más de sufrimiento, pero creo que la historia de Cory & Ben función mucho mejor gracias a todo ese dolor y oportunidades perdidas que ambos tenían que enfrentar y superar.

Cory fue uno de los personajes que más rápido se robó mi corazón en esta serie, la menor de los Spearman, una chica fuerte, independiente, de buen corazón y que no puede hacer nada sin su otra mitad, su gemelo Huxley, pero detrás de su imagen valiente y decidida esta una Cory con el corazón roto, no solo por Benedict, el mejor amigo de su hermano mayor y de quien siempre ha estado enamorada, si no también por la compleja dinámica familiar y la prematura muerte de su papá, algo que me rompió el corazón leer, pero al mismo tiempo, me gustó mucho leerla decidida a no aceptar las migajas de amor de nadie, a buscar su felicidad y a luchar por seguir adelante.

Benedict ha sido una presencia constante en Paradise Bay desde que su pequeña Bernie llegó a su vida: cambio todos sus planes, dejó atrás su vida de fiesta y encuentros casuales, y se mudo al lugar de residencia de los Spearman para que su hija pudiera crecer cerca de la única familia amorosa que él conoció, el problema es que todo eso lo acerco aún más a Cory, la hermana menor de su mejor amigo, quien esta completamente fuera de todos los limites, y de quien Ben no puede evitar enamorarse cada vez más. Pero Ben está en una situación complicada, ya que su vida familiar nunca ha sido sencilla y tiene miedo de aceptar sus sentimientos por Cory y así perder el amor, apoyo y respeto de los Spearman, y aún cuando el miedo de Ben es completamente valido, me rompe mucho el corazón leer como sus miedos hacen sentir a Cory, las maneras en las que Ben le rompe el corazón repetidamente y todo lo que pasa en la vida de ambos cuando ella decide seguir adelante.

Y es que Cory & Ben tienen una muy larga historia juntos que Claudia nos dejo descubrir con pequeños flashbacks y recuerdos, un proyecto en común que Ben usa como excusa para soltar la oportunidad de tener su final feliz con Cory, y muchos traumas por superar para poder ser felices por fin. Las cosas no son sencilla para estos dos, pero creo que la autora llevó su historia por los lugares correctos con una Cory que no le va a poner las cosas fáciles a Ben y un hombre que por fin está tomando las riendas de su vida para tener la familia que siempre quiso.

❤️‍🩹Cory: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Benedict: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Trama: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Historia de amor: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Personajes secundarios: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Universo: 5/5
❤️‍🩹Portada: 3/5
🌶️: 2/5

[Patti Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claudia Burgoa has done it again! I absolutely loved Where We Belong; it is an incredible best friend’s little sister love story. It is the eighth and final book in her Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers series. Where We Belong was bittersweet for me knowing that it is the final books in the series and saying goodbye to Paradise Bay. Claudia Burgoa continues to show that she is an amazing storyteller and has once again provided her readers with amazing characters. I love that she continues to write the stories that I love to read. I love all the characters in Where We Belong, they feel like family! Where We Belong filled me with a rollercoaster of emotions, it was impossible to put it down, and I loved every moment on every page. My favorite part of Where We Belong is how Claudia Burgoa incorporates the title of the book into the love story. Who does not love hot sexy men, strong females, loving families, and friends, who always support one another? I love how Claudia Burgoa always manages to create the "perfect" heroine, who is a strong woman on her own, to balance out the sexy, swoon worthy men. I really enjoy how the book is told in the first person from the perspective of the main characters. I love getting the insight and feelings from the different characters. Where We Belong is filled with heartbreaking and heartwarming moments that I have come to love and expect in Claudia Burgoa love story, and she did not disappoint, especially with the poignant and bittersweet moments that filled this page turner. Where We Belong is a best friend’s little sister love story between Benedict “Ben” Farrow, physician and single father to Bernadette, and his best friend Heath’s little sister Cordelia “Cory” Spearman. Ben has been warned away from Cory for years by all of her older brothers. Ben had a difficult upbringing and does not trust easily and has never felt that he was worthy of Cory’s love. Ben’s response when his daughter, Bernie calls Cory “Mama” was heartbreaking and caused Cory to flee from Ben, Bernie, and Paradise Bay. I love how Bernie continues to ask about Cory. Cory is dating another man that is emotionally unavailable. With his brother Derek’s help, Ben started therapy and reaches out to Cory. Ben and Cory had plans to build an inn at the vineyard in Paradise Bay, this dream has never become a reality. Ben reaches out to Heath to let him know about his feelings toward Cory, and with Atzi’s help, Ben decides to try to mend Cory’s broken heart. As Cory and Ben begin spending time together without Bernie things change between them. I love all the plans that they have for the inn, a dream come true for Cory. I love the chemistry between Cory and Ben, and everything that Ben does to let Cory know how he feels about her. I love how Ben approaches Lysander about his feelings for Cory. Ben’s proposal and the location of the proposal is another favorite part of the love story. My favorite part is the ending of the love story and Bernie’s reaction when she finds Cory in Ben’s bedroom. One of my favorite parts is the texting that happens between Cory and Ben, I love their playful banter. Cory always felt that Fern was “Daddy’s girl” and was not sure if her father loved her, I love the heart-to-heart texting between Aslan and Cory where he set her straight about her father’s feeling for her. I love the characters and the family dynamic in Where We Belong, the characters feel like family and friends. I enjoyed all the interactions between the Spearman family, the characters feel like family and friends. I enjoyed all the interactions between the Spearman siblings, especially their teasing that made me laugh. I loved all the characters in Where We Belong, it felt like a family reunion and catching up with the other Spearmans and the new little Spearmans. Who does not love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? I thoroughly enjoyed Where We Belong, a final farewell to Paradise Bay with a best friend’s little love story that turns into true love? Highly recommend this incredible love story. I received an advance copy from the author.

[Amber (Amber Reads Romance) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars
🌶🌶

Where We Belong is book #8 in the Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers series. However, this is the first book I have read in this series. I didn’t feel like I was missing a lot, though, even though this story picks up after Cory and Ben have stopped speaking. I am sure there was more build-up to this couple in the previous books, and that may have made this book better.

Cory has been crushing on her brother’s best friend for years and decided to put space and distance between them to protect her heart. Ben has also been pining for Cory, but she was always off limits because of her brother. Then his life gets even more complicated when he had a daughter 3 years ago. Cory was always there for him and his daughter, but Ben really hurt her by putting her in the “Aunt” zone when his daughter called her mom. She is trying to move on by not being involved in their lives, and she has a new boyfriend.

I really like how Ben is coming to terms with how much he messed up and has even started therapy to work through his issues. He has finally woke up and realized he needs her in his life. He is actively pursuing Cory, so she knows how much she means to him, and they can try to build a life together. 


This book felt a little rushed, but that may be due to the fact that I have not read the previous books in the series. I felt like they were separated for most of the book, and most of their communication was through texts. I needed more quality time and in person conversations. 

I listened to the audiobook, and the narrators did an amazing job of bringing the story to life. Mackenzie Cartwright and Jason Clarke did a perfect job showing all the angst and emotions of this couple. Especially Jason Clarke, who is one of my favorite male narrators.

Thank you to Forever and Always PR for providing the ALC in exchange for an honest review. 

[kgagnon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to finally get Benedict and Cory's love story! This slow-burn, forbidden romance is a captivating story about family, loyalty, love, and second chances. After a terrible childhood, Benedict is welcomed into the Spearman family. The friendship, warmth, and love he feels means everything to him, and he is afraid to risk losing them when he falls in love with his best friends little sister, Cory. Cory falls hard for Ben as well, and feels betrayed when he has an affair, and becomes a single father. She needs to stay close to Ben and his adorable little daughter, Bernie, by helping him take care of her. But when Bernie's heart gets involved, mistakes are made, and Cory leaves, breaking all their hearts. Both Ben and Cory have emotional scars they carry with them, not feeling worthy of love. Will they be able to heal their hearts and find their way back to each other? Ben and Cory are two wonderfully flawed people who fit so perfect together with their love of family, caring nature, and loyalty to those they love, and their sizzling chemistry leaps right off the page. My heart broke for them as they secretly loved from afar, and I cheered hard for them to see what everyone else saw, and find their HEA. This is a beautiful story of healing, family, forgiveness, and opening your heart to your forever love.
Narrators, Mackenzie Cartwright, and Jason Clarke did an amazing job with this story. They are two of my favorite narrators, so I was excited to listen to them together, and I was not disappointed! Their comedic timing is on point, and they easily move from light to genuine, deep emotion, making my heart race between laughter, anguish, passion, and tears of joy. They always bring their 'A' game, and did a great job bringing these characters, and this story to life!
I loved this Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers series, and am not ready to say good bye to the Spearman family, but this unputdownable story was a perfect ending to a beautiful, heartwarming and steamy series!

[The Book Junkie Reads . . . · Rating 4 out of 5]

WHERE WE BELONG (Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers, #8) . . . My first trip to Paradise Bay. The small town was home to both our Bene and Cora. But six months ago Cora pulled away from Bene and Bernie. She left their lives without a word. Yes, three years ago Bene and Cora's relationship changed. Cora was hurt by something she had no control over. Bene did not seem to have much control in the situation either.

Cora was Bene's best friends little sister. With that said the two still had a strong relationship. Cora was Aunt Cora to his little girl. She was a present in his life until it all change six month ago. She walked away. She did not look back and now, she is in a relationship with a man no one has met.

Could Cora have a type of man? Could she be just stepping into another role like the one she had with Bene? Can she truly escape her feelings for the one man that make her sing? Can Cora find happiness outside of Paradise Bay? Will she repair what was broken between her and Bene? These are just a few of the questions that will be answered when you read Where We Belong.

Something that will be of interest. There are some great couples that you meet along the journey of Cora and Bene. There were some family dynamics that were explored or touched upon. There were other invents of interest. If you have not read any of the other books of the series you may feel the need to do so. This story itself stands alone. I just want to know more.

Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read Entertaining Realistic Family Found Family Made Family

[Tanja OMGReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben Ben Ben... Does anyone else want to slap the living lights out of him?! Just me?! Ok.. That boy had some growing up to do before he became a man worthy of Cory. She has out her feelings for him on the sideline to help him, but she's had enough. Its time to put herself first and she's decided that cutting ties is the best way even if it breaks her heart.

Ben hasn't seen or heard from Cory for the past 6 months and he's finally realizing that his fear of losing her is coming into reality. Now he's determined to make up for his mistakes and shows her just how much he loves her. And here comes the best part of this story for me. She actually made him work for it. She wants to go slow because too much is at stake. Their HEA made me happy and i couldn't ask for more.

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where We Belong by Claudia Burgoa is a best friend's little sister, single dad romance novel that tells the story of a hot doctor and his sweet little girl.

I really enjoyed reading Where We Belong by Claudia Burgoa. The characters were well-developed, and the plot was engaging. The chemistry between the main characters was palpable, and I found myself rooting for them throughout the book. The writing was descriptive and flowed well, making it easy to get lost in the story. The book had a good balance of humor and angst, which kept me engaged until the end.

One of the things I appreciated about this book was the way it tackled some serious issues, such as grief and mental health, without being too heavy-handed. The author did a great job of weaving these themes into the story in a way that felt natural and authentic. I also appreciated the way the book explored the complexities of family relationships, particularly the bond between a father and his daughter.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good romance novel with well-developed characters and an engaging plot. It's a great read for anyone who wants to escape into a heartwarming story for a few hours.

[Jeananna w/The Book Reading Gals · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this standalone, ending to an awesome series!
You can feel the vulnerability, yearning, and heat coming off my kindle!! Cory wants the HEA she sees those around her getting. And she has always wanted Ben as her leading man.
Ben has so much emotional baggage he doesn't know where to start to find himself and his own HEA.
I loved the way that talking about therapy was such a natural topic in the storyline and amongst the characters. It should be! Whatever someone needs to feel better, find answers and help, should always be openly accepted.
I am sad to see this series end but wow, what an ending! Now I need to move on to the audio!

[Melissa Barr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Forever and Always PR for the Audio Arc.

3.5 stars

This was a cute, small town, single dad romance that still had quite a bit of an emotional punch! I really enjoyed it, but I wish Cory had made Ben work for it a little more.

Jason Clarke and Mackenzie Cartwright killed it with the audiobook and got a whole star with their production!

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can listen to the deep, sultry voice of Jason Clarke all day. He puts so much emotion and conviction to his narration. Maxime Mitchell was wonderful as Cory. Cory was finally ready to move on with her life. She has waited for years hoping Ben would finally want her. She was done having her heart broken. Her leaving and having no contact with Ben or Bernie affects them both. Listen to this last book in the Paradise Bay series.

[Joanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Where We Belong is the final installment in the Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers series and is the small town, friends to lovers, single dad, brother’s best friend, angsty romance of Cory Spearman and Benedict Farrow.
Benedict is welcomed into the Spearman family with open arms after a terrible childhood, so when he falls for Cory, his best friend’s little sister, he is afraid to lose the people who have come to mean everything to him. Burying his feelings and becoming a bit of a player leads to him being a single dad to daughter Bernie. He leaves his life and job as a surgeon behind in NYC and heads on home to Paradise Bay. Life is hectic owning his own practice and raising his daughter; however, Ben recognises something is missing from his life…Cory. Only she is completely avoiding him, making excuses to bit attend family gatherings. Having no idea what has caused her to pull away, Will Ben be able to make amends and finally get the woman he has loved forever?
Cory (Cordelia) Spearman has been in love with Benedict for as long as she can remember, however, when Ben moved in with the Spearman’s he friend zoned Cory, so they built an amazing friendship, with Cory burying her feelings. They maintain their friendship while he is off living his dream in NYC, and despite the fact her heart breaks a little at the news of him becoming a father, she falls in love with Bernie when he moves back to Paradise Bay to raise his daughter. Cory decides enough is enough, she knows she needs to get over Ben and move on with her life, so she ghosts him and gets into a relationship with Bodhi. Cory knows he isn’t right for her, she is always an after thought, but she stays longer than should as she is doing everything possible to avoid Ben including swerving family gatherings. Cory is hurt by Ben, by past relationships and she struggles to let go of this hurt and move forward. Will Cory let her walls down and forgive Ben to finally get the HEA she has always wanted? Will Cory learn to communicate her thoughts and feelings before it’s too late and she pushes Ben away for good?
The fabulously talented Jason Clarke and Mackenzie Cartwright bring Benedict and Cordelia to life and what a perfect pairing.
Mr Clarke’s portrayal of the lovestruck single dad who will stop at nothing to bring Cory back to him and Bernie was incredible. Jason’s deep, gravelly tone was perfect for the single dad, hot doctor who finally goes after the woman he has wanted all his life.
Ms Cartwright’s performance as Cory, the woman who has had to keep her feelings hidden for as long as she can remember was amazing. Mackenzie’s sweet, feathery voice perfectly suited the lovelorn fraternal twin with a dream of running an inn in her hometown and settling down with Ben and Bernie.
Overall, this audiobook was okay. I didn’t love it. I’m all for a bit of angst but I found the FMC to be whiny and whingey, and the lack of communication dragged on so long it became annoying. I have to be honest, had this been a full-length book rather than a novella, I’d have given up at around the 30% mark. What saved this were the performances of the insanely talented voice actors Jason Clarke and Mackenzie Cartwright, they had me wanting to see it through to the HEA.
If you are a fan of small town, friends to lovers, brother’s best friend, angsty, single dad romance then this could be the book for you.

[Bette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulously Enthralling & Heartfelt! Amazing Story & Narration🎧

Where We Belong
Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers, Book 8
By: Claudia Burgoa
Narrated by: Jason Clarke, Mackenzie Cartwright

Claudia Burgoa’s Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers is one of my favorite series, and I have looking forward to Cory and Benedict’s story since they were first introduced. We caught some glimpses of their lives and it was great to learn more about both of them. Benedict Farrow was Cory’s brother’s best friend, and she had a crush on him from the moment they first met. Her overprotective brothers warned Benedict that Cory was off limits, knowing he had emotional baggage and they were afraid they will hurt her. The chemistry between them is undeniable and always has been, but he has to respect her brother’s wishes. Despite respecting her brother’s wishes, he still wound up breaking her heart, and did so more than once. The first time when she found out he was going to be a dad, then twice more, the last time she vowed to stay away from him and his adorable daughter, who she bonded with. She realized it was time to move on with her life and with someone else. She also discovered something about herself, that she has a type and that is the reason she falls into the same pattern. Benedict feels her absence from his life and he is not liking it. It opened his eyes to what he was missing and what he really wants, but is it too late for him? Can he win back Cory’s trust, her heart, and her love? Wow, I devoured this book, the story captivates your attention and tugs at your heartstrings the entire time. As always, the writing, plotting and world building are fantastic, as are the character growth and development. I loved how everything played out, the drama, angst, heartfelt emotions, the charming and heartwarming moments and the slow burn, but so worth the wait, romance. Claudia Burgoa, thank you for this wonderful story and series. I am sad it is the last book in the series, but hope it is not the last we will see or hear from these amazing characters. 

🎧📚🎧 And for the amazing narration, Jason Clarke and MacKenzie Cartwright are the perfect cast to bring these characters to life. They understand the characters they are portraying, give each a voice that is fitting and believable. Clarke absolutely nails it as Benedict, swoon worthy demeanor and all. Cartwright aced it as Cory, grasping every aspect of her personality, from her most vulnerable side to her confident and determined side. Both were equally amazing performing the roles of the secondary characters, too. You could hear how much heart these two put into their performance as they capture all the characters’ emotions and have you feeling each one. They are entertaining storytellers and versatile voice artists. Their narration enhances and already fabulous story to another level. Thank you for another exceptional listen.

[Dora Harvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHERE WE BELONG is the last book of the Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers books, and I am sorry to see this series come to an end. I loved the Spearman family! I was totally captivated throughout this addictive page-turning story. This is a story about forbidden love. This is a story about trust and healing. This is a story about second chances. This is a story about the healing power of family, their dynamics, acceptance and support. This is a story of emotional angst where they are discovering what could be, yet they each have challenges they need to face. This is a story about a love so pure you can’t stop reading about it because of a true connection progressively being built between the two main characters.

This is Benedict (Ben) Farrow and Cordelia (Cory) Spearman’s story. Cory is a twin with her brother Huxley. Cory has loved and had a crush on Ben since she was 14 years old, but Ben is also her overprotective brother, Heath’s, best friend—and she is off-limits. When she heard that Ben got someone pregnant in NYC, she was heartbroken—feeling as if he cheated on her. Ben was a surgeon in NYC, then as a single dad moved back to Paradise Bay with his daughter, Bernadette (Bernie) to become a family doctor. Knowing Ben had a daughter, Cory tried to avoid him completely, but she couldn’t help but fall for his sweet baby, Bernie. When Cory skipped Bernie’s 3rd birthday party, she could not face Ben—someone that would not love her back. The saying, how to get over one person is to get under another one. This is what Cory thought she was doing in order to get over Ben. Knowing Cory is dating someone else and not a part of his and Bernie’s life any longer does not sit well with him. “I’ve tried not to love her, I swear. But it’s impossible. She captured my heart so long ago… I don’t want it back.” Everything came to a head when Ben tries to talk to Cory, and she ignores him. What happens when you find out the truth isn’t always what it seems? Well, find out what happens as secrets from the past begins to unravel, long forgotten truths are starting to be revealed. Will Ben be able win back Cory’s heart and love? Or will Ben put his friendship with Heath above his feelings for Cory? What happens next? Well, read this amazing story. This slow building romance is packed with so much sexual tension, and the book left me wonderfully content at its conclusion. I absolutely LOVED this couple! Claudia Burgoa seamlessly blended lightness with tension and just the right amount of angst. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Caitlin Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️

Genre: Small Town, Second Chance Romance

8th Book in the “Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers”

Tropes:
🤍 Single Dad
🤍 Best friends little sister
🤍 Off-Limits Romance
🤍 Forbidden
🤍 Second Chance
🤍 Angsty

Main characters:
🌹 Benedict Farrow
🌹 Cory Spearman
🌹 (Daughter) Bernie Farrow

I received this as an ALC from Forever and always PR, all thoughts in this review are my own. Thank you so much to Forever and always PR and Claudia Burgoa

Summary 💋
She’s always had a crush on her brothers best friend. She thought they had a chance however 3 years ago her crush left for his daughter. 3 years late She is still trying to move on but he can't let her go. It was his time to standup and get back to himself, and things he left it the past. Meaning it was time to prove to her that he only wants her.

Thoughts 🤭
I’m not really a fan of audio, but I wanted to give it a try and when I received the ALC, I was glad I got the chance. The voices brought the book to life more. As it showed more emotion between the characters, so I will definitely be doing that again.

I haven’t read the first 7 book but I absolutely loved this one. So I definitely will read the first ones when I get the chance.

I loved this so much!
I felt heartbroken for both of them.

Ben ~
Wanted to find himself again, to find her again and finally tell her he loves her.

Cory ~
No matter how much she ties she always feels 2nd Best, and doesn't want him to break her heart again.

I adore Benedict for still trying, Even though she was scared, he still brought her coffee, messages her. Their connection was to strong to pass up the Opportunity. It didn’t take them long to finally get together, even though they were taking it slow but it was always there, so it was going to happen.

Benedict was so cute and funny with the stuff he messaged her, and it was so cute that he never wanted to leave her, as he missed her to much🤭

Even though Bernie wasn't involved as much I feel in lave of haw she was towards Cory and how much she adored her just like her dad.

I honestly really enjoyed this, and can’t wait to read the books before.

Favourite Quotes 💬
"She's where I belong"

"I'll give her my battered imperfect heart"

"I love you, I always have"

[The Bashful Bookworm by Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Contains Spoilers**

Advanced Listening Copy/Audiobook Review
3.5⭐️ rounded up

I recommend you go read or listen to this book if you enjoy: BF’s sister, Alway you, Mutual pining, Angst, Single Dad, and mentions of therapy addressing emotional trauma.

I really enjoyed the narrators’ voices. I’m a little funny with audiobook; if I’m familiar with an author, in my mind I have an idea of how the characters should sound and sometimes have to adjust when I hear the narrator. Well, not being familiar with Claudia’s writing, I didn’t already have an idea how the voices should sound but I felt the narrators fit the characters. I did increase the reading speed to 1.3x because at 1, it felt like a more normal cadence and it made Ben’s drawl more appealing!

Ben and Cory always have had feelings for each other, unknown to the other though. However, the emotional childhood trauma from his parent’s marriage and actions influenced his fear of relationships and commitment, and questioned his self-worth.
Also, his subsequent bond with Cory’s family made him too afraid to pursue her. Cory and Ben develop an independent relation; so close that when Ben discovers he has a daughter from a one-night stand, Cory becomes very involved in their lives. Due to their miscommunication, Cory takes the drastic step to remover herself from their lives. Well this increases the pining for each other! So much mutual pining and angst!

But I love a MMC who falls so hard and that was Ben. I commend him for realizing the need to address his deep-seat issues and goes to therapy to help him fully love “his girls.”His confession/declaration of his feelings and intentions for Cory to his best friend and Cory was amazing! When he allowed himself to commit, HE COMMITTED!!!! He understood Cory’s need for complete honesty with his feelings and need to move slow for there and his daughters sake. Their HEA was worth it!

I absolutely loved the text exchanges between each chapter. It was nice way to have the straight forward dialogue after their history of hiding their feelings and all the pain of not being together.

Thank you Forever and Always PR and Claudia Burgoa for the advanced listener copy of this book!

[Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where We Belong is Book 8 in the Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers Series by Claudia Burgoa, featuring an emotional single dad/brother’s best friend romance for Benedict and Cory. Cory has been in love with Benedict Farrow since she was a teenager, but he has broken her heart for the last time. She has to find a way to cut him out of her life and move on. But when her new boyfriend proves to be emotionally unavailable too, Cory realizes she needs to reevaluate. Now Ben misses her, and wants to give them a chance, but can she trust him after multiple rejections?

I came to this series late, but when I read Lysander’s book, I knew Cory’s book would be great, and I was right!! Like it or not, we are shaped by our pasts, and both Cory and Ben bear emotional scars from their childhoods that are still impacting them as adults. Ben found a new family in the Spearmans, so for a long time, his need to please the brothers, along with his other fears, overrode his feelings for Cory. It just all broke my heart. Poor Cory suffered for years, as he kept her at arm’s length, but would reel her in just enough to satisfy his need to have her in his life. When he finally started to be honest with himself and go all in, I rooted for them hard. The slow burn, tension, angst were intense throughout, and when they finally came together, they were HOT!! I loved them with little Bernie, and the way the family would pop in throughout the story. As much as I loved the epilogue, I was sad to see the end of the book. I wanted more of them. Don’t miss this book!! I can’t wait to see what Ms. Burgoa comes up with next!!

I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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[Christina Fleetham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trust and Let Go …..

Ben has a strong fear of commitment because he grew up with parents living a rocky relationship and were not taught how to love … His fear causes him to push Cory away when they finally connect while she’s in college. He ends up having a baby with another woman, but that woman rejects their child. He moves to a small town from New York to be near his family.

Cory does helps Ben with his baby, but soon she realizes that she must force herself to keep away from him as she has been in love with him for years now and thinks that he does not desire to be more than friends …

Ben finally wakes up and tells her brother he's in love with her, promising that he is going to do whatever it takes to win her heart and make her happy. Her brother reluctantly agrees to support them if he makes her happy. He started seeking therapy to overcome his fear of becoming like his family and why he pushed her away all those years ago.
They finally surrender to each other and confess their love for one another. He sees her as his future, and she begins to trust him again.

I do wish that I had listened to the other books in the series before listening to this one just so that I could understand more the background of the characters but I still enjoyed the story and most especially that Jason Clarke and Mackenzie Cartwright are two of my very favorite narrators and were brilliant telling this story, loved it so much that they narrated it.

Aslan: You can’t be serious about dating Benedict Farrow.
Cory: I’m not sixteen anymore. Thank you for looking after me, but I’m old enough to make my own decisions.
Aslan: Are you sure about this? He has a child.
Cory: An adorable little girl who everyone loves. She calls you Uncle Aslan, and you’re calling her baggage.
Aslan: I didn’t say that. I just want to make sure you’re aware of what you’re getting into.
Cory: A loving relationship with a man who’s trying his damn best to be a better version of himself for his daughter and me.

ALC Review

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book eight in The Paradise Billionaire series and it is Ben and Cory’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. I have been waiting so long to read Ben and Cory’s story and now the wait is finally over. Cory and Ben have history as he was her brother’s best friend and Cory had been in love with him for years but all he sees her as is his best friend’s sister and nothing else and now Cory had decided that enough is enough and now she needs to start and move forward with her own life if that was at all possible. Ben had always been a bit of a player but when he was deceived by a woman and ended up a single dad to Bernie his life completely changed and he decided that he wanted to raise his daughter in Paradise Bay and also owns his own practice so now his life is forever changed and hectic but his daughter was also his life but something is missing and he knows what it is but can’t acknowledge it. Cory is now in a relationship but she doesn’t feel like she is important enough to Bodhi and she has constant doubts about them and soon she will have to make a decision of how to move forward with her life yet again. Ben and Cory both have baggage and trust issues from there pasts and they have both gone through so much pain, trauma, heartache and suffering and my heart broke for them but there connection was so strong, beautiful and unique and they are real soulmates and even though it took them years before Ben could finally get the help that he needed so that he could eventually live a better life and tell Cory just how much he had always loved her it really was a beautiful thing to see and I am so glad that after all these years they now have the happiness and future that they both deserved. Wow this book takes you on the biggest rollercoaster ride of your life and the emotions that this story had you feeling had me in complete tears with everything that had happened. I read this book in one sitting until the early hours of the morning as it was absolutely amazing and the storyline pulled you in right from the start and wouldn’t let you go because it was so addictive and kept your attention throughout the whole book.I am so sad to come to the end of this amazing series but also I can’t wait to see what Claudia writes next because she is an amazing author and writer and her books are definitely worth reading.

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

With every single book Claudia writes she has never failed to exceed all my expectations. Well Where We Belong is no different is no different. In fact ( The Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers falls into the category of one of the best series I’ve ever read . Each book although interconnected focuses on a different couple and truth be told , if you asked me to choose a favorite there’s no way I could have . But that was before Ben and Corys epic love story . Something pulled me to them like a magnet and before I knew it they had my heart and refused to let go where We Belong is a emotional rollercoaster that’s sucks you right in from the very first page and does not let go . It plays on all your emotions to the point you’ll find yourself utterly speechless one minute and then be yelling outta frustration the next . You’ll be glued to the edge of your seat rooting so freaking hard , you’ll smile , you’ll cry like a baby and you’re definitely going to lose so much sleep . Cory has been in love with Benedict for as long as she can remember .He’s her brothers best friend / a single dad . The person who time and time again has shattered her heart to pieces . Well fate steps in and gives these two a second chance to get it right . But is love in the cards for these two? Will they end up together? Where We Belong one of the most beautifully written and emotionally charged love stories . First loves , heartbreak, second chances, tragedy, pain , angst , witty banter , humor , obstacles, ups and downs , unexpected surprises, drama , a beautifully broken hero and heroine , family , friendships and so much more . All I can say is keep the tissues close by and prepare yourself for a very very long night of reading and lots of sleep lost . Because once you start. Your absolutely going to be hooked

[Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been waiting for Cory and Benedict to get their HEA since the beginning of this series. Now, here we are, and knowing it's also the last in the series, I kind of want to go back and start over. I feel like the Spearmans are friends or even family adjacent, so seeing the series come to a close is like saying goodbye to old friends. Thankfully, I can visit them anytime, which makes saying goodbye much easier.
Now, for Cory and Benedict - this pair is everything I hoped for and then some. I seriously wanted to give them both a good shake at times, but if the way Benedict goes about proving his love to Cory doesn't make you swoon, nothing will. Throw in that he's a sweet single dad, and he's a keeper all the way around. He and Cory are so good together, and even when they were driving me crazy, waiting for them to get on the same page, I was all in for their happy ever after.
If you haven't met the Spearmans yet, you don't know what you're missing. This is the kind of family everyone should have. These siblings take such good care of each other, and they go the extra mile in that endeavor. So, this may be the final book in the series, but it won't be the last time I spend some time with this family.
As if Where We Belong isn't good enough already, Claudia Burgoa takes it a step further and puts it in the hands of Jason Clarke and Mackenzie Cartwright for the narration. I've listened to both Clarke and Cartwright, and I've liked everything I've heard. From the sweet to the steamy goodness and everything in between, these two bring all the feels.
The Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers and the Spearmans are the types of stories that drew me to Claudia Burgoa, and whether I curl up with the book or listen as I get things done, she never disappoints.

[Neeru Rana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for this book for too long and had a lot of expectations. Claudia gave me more than I expected and the complete read was an emotional whirlwind. I was in awe with the story and read it in a single sitting. Every single time Claudia tugs at my heart strings with her words and these amazing characters which leave me awestruck.

I have loved both Ben and Cory from the start of the series and by the end I loved them even more. My heart broke for Cory and Ben after knowing not just Cory but Ben's own heart ache. There love is evident just as there pain. I hated Bodhi as much as Ben.

It isn't easy for Cory to put herself first and move on but I loved her effort despite me rooting for her to get together with Ben. And Ben needed to work on his own issues from the past to move forward. It isn't easy to get help but Ben did it with the support from his loved ones.

Berni is adorable and I could not help myself from falling in love with her. All she wanted was her Co-ee which melted my heart. The relationship Berni and Cory share is so sweet and special I hoped we would have gotten more of it. There reunion was an emotional moment.

They needed time to grow before they could finally be together. Sometimes distance gives a new perspective. There chemistry was sizzling hot enough to burn pages. I was swooning over Ben and the way he courted Cory. Getting a glimpse of there past that no one knew about was nice. I wished we would have gotten more of them together.

It's a flawless read and finished too soon for my liking. I hope we have a bonus epilogue set in future for them. And hopefully there is a novella in future with all the couples. I am not ready to say goodbye to this branch of Spearman family as they own my heart.

Please read the TW/CW provided as some instances might trigger. Thanks to Claudia for the advanced copy of this enticing read.

[Jodi Bigane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved all of the Paradise Bay books and have followed the backstory of Ben and Cory from book 1. I was so excited that we were finally getting their story and Claudia did an amazing job. This book was everything I hoped for and more. Claudia took us on an emotional journey throughout this book where at times it was heartbreaking and others endearing. I was captivated from the beginning all the way to the end.

Ben is Heath's best friend and pretty much has been part of the family for many years. Cory is Heath's younger sister and from the day Ben laid eyes on her he was done for. However, due to certain issues Ben never acted on his feelings but kept Cory at a
safe distance, in the friend zone. After having an epiphany, Ben realizes his mistakes with Cory over the years but is it to late to salvage their relationship? Can he convince her of his true feelings and that her heart is safe with him?

The narrators, Jason Clarke and MacKenzie Cartwright, did an amazing job bringing the characters and their story to life. They made you feel the emotions through the storyline. You felt the chemistry between Ben and Cory. This book made you believe in not giving up on love. Also, try to be honest with your feelings because you don't want to live with regrets. After everything Ben and Cory have been through, despite hiding their feelings from each other for so many years, they deserve a happy ending. I highly recommend reading or listening to this book!!!

[Mayville (Tourbiez Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 "Co-ee" Stars

Oh, Dr. Benedict Farrow. It took you a while to get that stick out of your ass. Since reading the Christmas in Paradise Bay book, I've been waiting for the moment for him to have the courage to tell Cordelia "Cory" Spearman that he loves her. And then, it all altered when he received that bombshell of news that recast his life. His misguided fears were all due to his family's toxic relationship, particularly with his parents. His cowardice has been living with him for a long time and Cory lost her patience waiting for him. I could've done the same too if I was her. Her absence in his life has finally made him realize the void that he wants to get out of and decides to suck up the courage and have the future he wants with Cory and his lovely daughter, Bernie (this little girl is so damn adorable).

I felt like this story was a novella or an extended epilogue to conclude the story of this wonderful family. I'm not complaining. In fact, I'm happy that Cory's HEA is suited as the last book in the series since we've seen a glimpse of her and Ben's love story in the previous books.
That was quite a journey and never a dull moment spending time with the Spearman Family from Paradise Bay. I'm going to miss them profoundly.
So... I guess, there's more Spearman Family to come. How big is this clan, anyway?!

I recommend bingeing this series for those who are new and love family novels with angst and drama and I see myself re-reading this in the future. Thank you for sharing this wonderful family, Miss Burgoa.

[Yolanda McGee~Veronica's Reading Vault · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be still my romantic heart! Claudia Burgoa ended a phenomenal series on such a beautiful, emotional and amazing high note. This is exactly what I’ve been waiting for and Where We Belong (Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers #8) is romantically appealing and oh so swoon worthy.

From the moment Cory’s brother Heath introduced Benedict aka Ben to the family, she was smitten with him and instantly fell in love. And the feeling was mutual for Ben however, he’s f****d up, emotionally unavailable, oh and she’s his best friend’s little sister. Without giving too much away, these two go through a lot emotionally and mentally and their journey to happiness certainly isn’t easy. There are years of secretly being in love, friend zoning, hurt feelings and anger. My heart desperately yearned for these two to finally be together. The rollercoaster of emotions and angst had me on edge. Although this is a slow burn romance, it’s so worth it as the storyline is engaging and I was heavily invested in getting to Ben and Cory’s HEA. No one deserved it more than these two. And can I just say that Ben is the ultimate smokeshow doctor and couple that with him being a single daddy of a cute little baby girl, total ovary explosion!

Claudia Burgoa does angsty, heartwarming and tender romance like no other. I’m glad the series ended with this wonderful couple and Where We Belong is an absolute five star perfection.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

It't time to say goodbye to the Paradise Bay Spearmans- though knowing Claudia's ability to interweave series I wouldn't be surprised if they pop in again somewhere else.

Where We Belong is the long awaited coupling of Benedict Farrow and Cory Spearman. This story is kind of a frenemies/first unrequited crush to lovers story. It's a slow burn that blazes once things heat up and we can't forget the whole single father aspect to it with Ben's adorable daughter Bernie or the fact that Cory is in fact his best friends baby sister.

3.5 ⭐

Ben and Cory's story is an emotional yet also kind of infuriating journey- Cory has finally reached her breaking point with her crush on Ben and had cut him from her life entirely while Ben scrambles without Cory being by his side and finally gives voice to his longstanding feelings toward her.

The longing between these two his almost suffocating. Cory was in a relationship with Bohdi, for the first half of this story- though that relationship was kind of weird. Bohdi was a divorced father that shared custody of his 3 children but also could live internationally for months on end but everything about his relationship with Cory was surface level. Meanwhile Benedict was losing his mind over Cory not speaking to him- almost in a "I want her now that I can't have her" kind of way.

I was initially a bit disappointed with how their story was shaping up. Cory was being stubborn and kind of b*tchy while Ben grumped and groused but never did anything constructive. His pushing her on the Inn was kind of manipulative on his part- and I get it but I didn't love it. After the whole Bohdi debacle the story started to actually make sense. Ben was actively trying to face the demons of his past to become a better father and partner for Cory. He pulls out all the stops and works hard to prove that he truly was all in with her and it wasn't just a ploy to get her involved with his daughter again. The icy facade on Cory began to melt and these two just started making sense together even if Ben was still kind of needy.

In the end I was happy to see these two finally together and becoming the family that I had been hoping for.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the eighth book in the Paradise Bay Billionaire Brothers series and while it can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the series in order. As saddened as I am to see this series end, Ms. Burgoa has once again penned a storyline that will enthrall any reader as Benedict, aka Ben, and Cordelia, aka Cory, take center stage. Cory has been crushing on her brother’s best friend, Ben, ever since she was fourteen years old. The two were constantly together and Cory always held out hope that the more time they spent together, their relationship would change. However, when the unexpected occurs and Cory hears that Ben has a daughter, she is thrown for a loop and feels heartbroken. As time passes, the two go their separate ways and live their lives but they are just going through the motions. After some soul searching and therapy, Ben comes to some startling realizations but is it too late? The power of this author’s talent is how lifelike her characters are and the situations they are placed in could actually happen in real life. The emotions felt by Cory and Ben will have one’s heart breaking for them and wondering if love is enough and how far will they go to get their happily ever after. A perfect blend of light with the angst, keep the pages turning. There is so much to love contained within and I hope that there will be more, if only a novella, to catch up with this family at some point in the future.