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Cherry Tree Harbor #3
Make-Believe Match
Fall in love with my enemy? No way.
Marry him to save my family’s struggling ski resort? That’s a different story…
Getting hitched is the only way I can inherit Snowberry Lodge, and I’ll do anything to spare my childhood home from the wrecking ball–even wear Devlin Buckley’s ring on my finger.
Not that I’ll enjoy it.
Sure, he’s charming and handsome, and that no-last-names one night stand we shared ended with a fantastically big bang (I saw stars I hadn’t seen in six months, if you catch my drift).
But I’ll never trust him–he was working for the company trying to bulldoze my life.
Right up until the day he knocked on my door with an offer I couldn’t refuse.
Marry him, and he’ll help me restore my family’s crumbling resort to its former glory–and get revenge on his ex-boss in the process. Once our goals are achieved, we’ll go our separate ways.
It’s temporary. Strictly business. Purely for show.
Until I realize how much I like it when he says "my wife."
Once we’re sharing a last name–and a bed–our make-believe match starts to feel a little too real.
And if I’m not careful, I could lose everything… my home, my dreams, and my heart.
Marry him to save my family’s struggling ski resort? That’s a different story…
Getting hitched is the only way I can inherit Snowberry Lodge, and I’ll do anything to spare my childhood home from the wrecking ball–even wear Devlin Buckley’s ring on my finger.
Not that I’ll enjoy it.
Sure, he’s charming and handsome, and that no-last-names one night stand we shared ended with a fantastically big bang (I saw stars I hadn’t seen in six months, if you catch my drift).
But I’ll never trust him–he was working for the company trying to bulldoze my life.
Right up until the day he knocked on my door with an offer I couldn’t refuse.
Marry him, and he’ll help me restore my family’s crumbling resort to its former glory–and get revenge on his ex-boss in the process. Once our goals are achieved, we’ll go our separate ways.
It’s temporary. Strictly business. Purely for show.
Until I realize how much I like it when he says "my wife."
Once we’re sharing a last name–and a bed–our make-believe match starts to feel a little too real.
And if I’m not careful, I could lose everything… my home, my dreams, and my heart.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2023
About the author
Melanie Harlow
70 books18.9k followersUSA Today bestselling author of sweet and sexy romance. Lover of cocktails, high heels, and history with the naughty bits left in. Michigan girl. INTJ. Always seeking ginspiration...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,350 reviews
November 26, 2023
3.5⭐️ if you like marriage of convenience you want to hear “my wife” 1000x, this is the book for you
Read
January 24, 2024✮ ✮ 𝗔𝗩𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗡𝗢𝗪 ✮ ✮
𝐴𝑟𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑦 𝑡𝑜 𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑡 𝐷𝑒𝑣𝑙𝑖𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐿𝑒𝑥𝑖?
✓ Marriage of Convenience
✓ Forced Proximity
✓ Small Town with Spice
✓ Fake Relationship
✓ Enemies-to-Lovers
✓ One Night Stand
✓ One Bed
✓ Vegas Marriage
✓ Meddling Grandma
✓ “My Wife”
✓ All the cozy feels + LOTS of heat...
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲-𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆! 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗶𝗻 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱!
✦ Kindle Unlimited/Amazon → https://harlow.pub/Make-BelieveMatch-...
✦ Alt Male Paperback → https://harlow.pub/Make-BelieveMatch-...
✦ Paperback → https://harlow.pub/Make-BelieveMatch-pb
🎧 Audio → https://harlow.pub/Make-BelieveMatch-... (𝑛𝑎𝑟𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝐶𝐽 𝐵𝑙𝑜𝑜𝑚 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑅𝑜𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑡 𝐻𝑎𝑡𝑐ℎ𝑒𝑡)
𝐴𝑟𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑦 𝑡𝑜 𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑡 𝐷𝑒𝑣𝑙𝑖𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐿𝑒𝑥𝑖?
✓ Marriage of Convenience
✓ Forced Proximity
✓ Small Town with Spice
✓ Fake Relationship
✓ Enemies-to-Lovers
✓ One Night Stand
✓ One Bed
✓ Vegas Marriage
✓ Meddling Grandma
✓ “My Wife”
✓ All the cozy feels + LOTS of heat...
𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲-𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆! 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗶𝗻 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱!
✦ Kindle Unlimited/Amazon → https://harlow.pub/Make-BelieveMatch-...
✦ Alt Male Paperback → https://harlow.pub/Make-BelieveMatch-...
✦ Paperback → https://harlow.pub/Make-BelieveMatch-pb
🎧 Audio → https://harlow.pub/Make-BelieveMatch-... (𝑛𝑎𝑟𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝐶𝐽 𝐵𝑙𝑜𝑜𝑚 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑅𝑜𝑏𝑒𝑟𝑡 𝐻𝑎𝑡𝑐ℎ𝑒𝑡)
November 22, 2023
one of my new top MH books, FOR SURE.
melanie harlow never ever EVER steers me wrong. this is a marriage of convenience, opposites attract romance between lexi, who needs a husband to save her family’s ski resort from getting sold, and devlin, who just quit the company who wants to buy it and now wants his revenge.
this was sooo fun, emotional, and spicy. i love LOVED their connection and that they didn’t try to fight their chemistry so we really saw their feelings develop throughout the whole story.
her spice always delivers but devlin had noooo right to be so hot. he basically said, even though this marriage is fake, you’re still my wife and i will take care of ALLLL your needs.
so so good and SO MUCH “MY WIFEEEEE” i die!!!
melanie harlow never ever EVER steers me wrong. this is a marriage of convenience, opposites attract romance between lexi, who needs a husband to save her family’s ski resort from getting sold, and devlin, who just quit the company who wants to buy it and now wants his revenge.
this was sooo fun, emotional, and spicy. i love LOVED their connection and that they didn’t try to fight their chemistry so we really saw their feelings develop throughout the whole story.
her spice always delivers but devlin had noooo right to be so hot. he basically said, even though this marriage is fake, you’re still my wife and i will take care of ALLLL your needs.
so so good and SO MUCH “MY WIFEEEEE” i die!!!
December 3, 2023
i loved the first two but this is my new fav in the cherry tree harbor series!! accidentally having a hot one night stand with the man you’re about to be fighting against to save your families ski resort??? then to go on and marry said man bc he now wants to help save it and get revenge on his old coworkers???? say. less. this book was so fun and i absolutely loved the chemistry and animosity between lexi and devlin. the fake marriage coming after they’d already hooked up just makes it all the more fun bc they KNOW they are into each other and simply cannot resist. i love a "my wife" moment in a marriage of convenience book but devlin always calling lexi "wife" basically as a nickname, even when they're alone had me feeling giggly over here. I LOVE THEM
December 25, 2023
i love me a marriage of convenience romance. they never let me DOWN!
November 22, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
''I do like being still with you''
Safety warnings:
- No OW/OM drama
- No cheating
- Loss of loved ones
- Mention of cheating (side characters)
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
We had a glimpse of Devlin and Lexi in the previous books, so I was happy to finally get the full story!
Devlin is working on behalf of one of his clients to buy Lexi's family-owned Ski resort which has been in her family forever and means a lot to her but unbeknownst to Lexi when she first meets him and to Devlin himself, they have a ONS just a day or so before the meeting.
Despite Lexi's initial reaction to him, thinking he was a liar and trying to scam her out of the property, Devlin really did not know who she was. He feels guilty and this leads to his career at his current job imploding and he quits. He refuses to take this away from her and wants to help her keep it.
In the meantime, Lexi tries to gain the property and keep it, but her grandmother informs her that in her will it states that Lexi needs to be married in order to gain the rights to the place and sadly she is nowhere near that...so enter Devlin.
These two get married in order for Lexi to get ownership and he will help her get funds as well as planning the fixes required. They agree to stay married for up to a year but sadly it doesn't go as planned.
I have to say the thing that bothered me about this one was how late in the book we get them actually being together and in love, it felt like it happened too quickly too and then the book ends.
They do have their ''third act breakup'' moment when Lexi finds out she needs to be married for 5 years or it was for nothing and knowing that Devlin hates staying still and put his career on hold for her, she tells him to go to his new job now and ends it.
I wish this had happened a bit earlier than it happened, so we got them separated for a little longer or something. There was a lot of miscommunications between them, and they just needed to air the truth out no matter how hard it was.
I will say however I loved the way he showed up and showed her how much he loved her and proposed correctly.
Also, kind of wish I did not hate Tabitha throughout the book only for her to be redeemed at the end because I could care less about her.
HONORARY MENTION:
We get to see Winnie!!! I loved her book, so it was nice to see her throughout this story.
''I do like being still with you''
Safety warnings:
- No OW/OM drama
- No cheating
- Loss of loved ones
- Mention of cheating (side characters)
- HEA
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️
We had a glimpse of Devlin and Lexi in the previous books, so I was happy to finally get the full story!
Devlin is working on behalf of one of his clients to buy Lexi's family-owned Ski resort which has been in her family forever and means a lot to her but unbeknownst to Lexi when she first meets him and to Devlin himself, they have a ONS just a day or so before the meeting.
Despite Lexi's initial reaction to him, thinking he was a liar and trying to scam her out of the property, Devlin really did not know who she was. He feels guilty and this leads to his career at his current job imploding and he quits. He refuses to take this away from her and wants to help her keep it.
In the meantime, Lexi tries to gain the property and keep it, but her grandmother informs her that in her will it states that Lexi needs to be married in order to gain the rights to the place and sadly she is nowhere near that...so enter Devlin.
These two get married in order for Lexi to get ownership and he will help her get funds as well as planning the fixes required. They agree to stay married for up to a year but sadly it doesn't go as planned.
I have to say the thing that bothered me about this one was how late in the book we get them actually being together and in love, it felt like it happened too quickly too and then the book ends.
They do have their ''third act breakup'' moment when Lexi finds out she needs to be married for 5 years or it was for nothing and knowing that Devlin hates staying still and put his career on hold for her, she tells him to go to his new job now and ends it.
I wish this had happened a bit earlier than it happened, so we got them separated for a little longer or something. There was a lot of miscommunications between them, and they just needed to air the truth out no matter how hard it was.
I will say however I loved the way he showed up and showed her how much he loved her and proposed correctly.
Also, kind of wish I did not hate Tabitha throughout the book only for her to be redeemed at the end because I could care less about her.
HONORARY MENTION:
We get to see Winnie!!! I loved her book, so it was nice to see her throughout this story.
December 4, 2023
I read this because I saw people talking about a lot of “my wife” moments but they were mostly all in jest so 🙄 not what I thought.
She falls first and harder (yuck). For once I would love a marriage of convenience where the man is the one pining and desperate. Unfortunately for me, Melanie Harlow seems to love the pining heroines with feelings.
Lexi was really annoying to me bc she would often say something but do something completely opposite. Not going to have a physical relationship, immediately changes her mind. She wants to save her family’s ski resort but is unwilling to make changes and gets upset when Devlin points out that’s the only way to save it.
Lexi said she wanted to have boundaries/rules. No sex, no kissing then was upset when Devlin didn’t kiss her at their wedding. First night as husband and wife (24 hours since setting ground rules) she says fuck them all. They have a fwb situation during their marriage which of course she gets feelings, falls hard for him while Devlin stays pretty unattached. She was SO emotional about everything and wore all her emotions on her face whereas Devlin has a wonderful poker face but even in his pov he didn’t come across as willing to change his views on life for her until the VERY end.
When they “break up” she is a depressed mess barely leaving bed while he is trying to tell himself it’s what he wants and will move on. I would have also liked some more on Tabitha. It seemed everyone was all too willing to make her happy or just ignore her. She’s a spoiled adult and I would’ve like someone to put her in her place. Also would’ve liked some more drama with Bob considering that’s the whole reason Devlin got married was for revenge on him yet nothing happens there that’s not 3rd party through Tabitha.
This book just annoyed me. They met twice, got married, had tons of sex, realized their marriage was for nothing, reconcile. The proposal and wedding at the end were cute but not enough.
She falls first and harder (yuck). For once I would love a marriage of convenience where the man is the one pining and desperate. Unfortunately for me, Melanie Harlow seems to love the pining heroines with feelings.
Lexi was really annoying to me bc she would often say something but do something completely opposite. Not going to have a physical relationship, immediately changes her mind. She wants to save her family’s ski resort but is unwilling to make changes and gets upset when Devlin points out that’s the only way to save it.
Lexi said she wanted to have boundaries/rules. No sex, no kissing then was upset when Devlin didn’t kiss her at their wedding. First night as husband and wife (24 hours since setting ground rules) she says fuck them all. They have a fwb situation during their marriage which of course she gets feelings, falls hard for him while Devlin stays pretty unattached. She was SO emotional about everything and wore all her emotions on her face whereas Devlin has a wonderful poker face but even in his pov he didn’t come across as willing to change his views on life for her until the VERY end.
When they “break up” she is a depressed mess barely leaving bed while he is trying to tell himself it’s what he wants and will move on. I would have also liked some more on Tabitha. It seemed everyone was all too willing to make her happy or just ignore her. She’s a spoiled adult and I would’ve like someone to put her in her place. Also would’ve liked some more drama with Bob considering that’s the whole reason Devlin got married was for revenge on him yet nothing happens there that’s not 3rd party through Tabitha.
This book just annoyed me. They met twice, got married, had tons of sex, realized their marriage was for nothing, reconcile. The proposal and wedding at the end were cute but not enough.
November 7, 2023
first off, this model on the cover?? Call me pls. One of the best guy covers ever. This is exactly what the MMC looks like in my head and I loved it. Secondly, this marriage of convenience small town book was everything and more!!
This was fast, and easy to get through while being so swoony and spicy (holy omg it was hot). I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about Devlin after the first few chapters but I grew to love him a lot and how he kept calling her “wife”!! He was so scared of love but the minute he sees Lexi he was a goner.
The star of the show is Lexi the FMC!! She was so relatable and strong and I loved how she never let Devlin get away with anything!! Her backstory was so sad but also proved how strong she is. She deserves every good thing!!
Lexi and Devlin really complimented each other well as a couple and their chemistry was so good 🔥. I also loved all the cameos from the other couples!!
Overall, a great read and I cant wait for the next one!!
Thanks Melanie for the ARC!
This was fast, and easy to get through while being so swoony and spicy (holy omg it was hot). I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about Devlin after the first few chapters but I grew to love him a lot and how he kept calling her “wife”!! He was so scared of love but the minute he sees Lexi he was a goner.
The star of the show is Lexi the FMC!! She was so relatable and strong and I loved how she never let Devlin get away with anything!! Her backstory was so sad but also proved how strong she is. She deserves every good thing!!
Lexi and Devlin really complimented each other well as a couple and their chemistry was so good 🔥. I also loved all the cameos from the other couples!!
Overall, a great read and I cant wait for the next one!!
Thanks Melanie for the ARC!
November 22, 2023
I feel like she liked him a lot more than he liked her
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November 23, 2023
-ˋˏ 2.75 stars
oh the joys of marriage of convenience 🤭
this was a cute spicy quick romcom. written pretty well, in a true melanie harlow fashion. their banter was cute, and the spice was hot.
it's just that they had way too much sex. like, right off the bat. so the marriage didn't feel all that fake to me and there was zero tension. i mean... they were fucking every free minute they had. the mmc, devlin carried this book off his fucking back, poor guy. he was the only good thing in this. i didn't mind the fmc, lexi, but she was blandy mcbland. her only personality trait that the people around her (including lexi herself) kept saying over and over was that she was an extremely emotional person, literally that was it. that was the only thing she had going for her. like that alone should've made us understand her better? "oh, don't mind her, she's just super emotional," uh yeah and i cry bc of sad commercials. that doesn't make me special does it???
devlin tho... free my guy. i feel like he shouldve been in another series with a better plot and a better fmc... all that talent....with the ties....and the bedpost?....anyways !
this wasn't the worst romcom i've read it just didn't hit it for me i guess and i don't think it was entirely this book's fault....going from fantasy to this was ridiculous bc how am i supposed to care about saving an old ass ugly resort when there are people out there riding dragons trying to save an entire continent?
it was just hard for me to take it seriously bc honestly the main conflict was pretty stupid. and it was also resolved quickly. where was the pininggg and longinggg and jealousy? i needed to be hurt lol
anyways it was still an enjoyable, funny romcom. FREE MY MAN DEVLIN!!!
“Look at this bullshit. ‘Thank you for all you did for me. I consider you a friend.’ I don’t want to be her fucking friend!”
“What do you want to be?”
“Her husband!”
oh the joys of marriage of convenience 🤭
this was a cute spicy quick romcom. written pretty well, in a true melanie harlow fashion. their banter was cute, and the spice was hot.
it's just that they had way too much sex. like, right off the bat. so the marriage didn't feel all that fake to me and there was zero tension. i mean... they were fucking every free minute they had. the mmc, devlin carried this book off his fucking back, poor guy. he was the only good thing in this. i didn't mind the fmc, lexi, but she was blandy mcbland. her only personality trait that the people around her (including lexi herself) kept saying over and over was that she was an extremely emotional person, literally that was it. that was the only thing she had going for her. like that alone should've made us understand her better? "oh, don't mind her, she's just super emotional," uh yeah and i cry bc of sad commercials. that doesn't make me special does it???
devlin tho... free my guy. i feel like he shouldve been in another series with a better plot and a better fmc... all that talent....with the ties....and the bedpost?....anyways !
this wasn't the worst romcom i've read it just didn't hit it for me i guess and i don't think it was entirely this book's fault....going from fantasy to this was ridiculous bc how am i supposed to care about saving an old ass ugly resort when there are people out there riding dragons trying to save an entire continent?
it was just hard for me to take it seriously bc honestly the main conflict was pretty stupid. and it was also resolved quickly. where was the pininggg and longinggg and jealousy? i needed to be hurt lol
anyways it was still an enjoyable, funny romcom. FREE MY MAN DEVLIN!!!
“So fucking pretty,” he growled. “And all mine.”
November 20, 2023
RATING ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
This book! THIS BOOK, I was in love with it from the very first time Devlin uttered the words “wife.” Melanie Harlow DOES NOT MISS! There is a certain comfort for me in reading her books because you know what vibes you are going to get—swoony, spicy, fast paced—but the way she delivers is always fresh and exciting. And NOTHING is more exciting to me than a marriage of convenience, and let me tell you, this one is SUPERB! Like 100/10, Chef’s Kiss 😘 perfect!
I loved Lexi and Devlin from the first moment they met at the bar, and that spice, it was spicing from the very beginning. Lexi wants to save her family���s ski resort and Devlin works for the company that wants to buy it. Their one night stand quickly turns into enemies when they re-meet to strike a deal, but thatshifts to a fake marriage when they learn the only way to get what they want is to work together.
Devlin is soooooo dang swoony. I lived for this man and his use of the word WIFE. I loved how he so easily formed a team and a family with Lexi even though they were still trying to believe it was temporary. And Lexi, she was just an amazing FMC, the perfect mix of strong and vulnerable and I just wanted her to have her every happiness.
I also loved that we got to see the rest of the Buckley’s and got that cozy small town feel that I just love. The banter was top notch and watching Lexi and Devlin fall for each other has me melting.
This book is a top read of the year, it’s fantastic, spicy, emotional, fun and flirty and I can’t get over how much I loved it. Fans of Melanie old and new are going to LOVE this one. And if you are like me and LOVE marriage of convenience, pick this one up now! Don’t wait!!!
Thank you to Melanie Harlow and Valentine PR for the ARC of this book. My review is voluntary and honest.
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
This book! THIS BOOK, I was in love with it from the very first time Devlin uttered the words “wife.” Melanie Harlow DOES NOT MISS! There is a certain comfort for me in reading her books because you know what vibes you are going to get—swoony, spicy, fast paced—but the way she delivers is always fresh and exciting. And NOTHING is more exciting to me than a marriage of convenience, and let me tell you, this one is SUPERB! Like 100/10, Chef’s Kiss 😘 perfect!
I loved Lexi and Devlin from the first moment they met at the bar, and that spice, it was spicing from the very beginning. Lexi wants to save her family���s ski resort and Devlin works for the company that wants to buy it. Their one night stand quickly turns into enemies when they re-meet to strike a deal, but thatshifts to a fake marriage when they learn the only way to get what they want is to work together.
Devlin is soooooo dang swoony. I lived for this man and his use of the word WIFE. I loved how he so easily formed a team and a family with Lexi even though they were still trying to believe it was temporary. And Lexi, she was just an amazing FMC, the perfect mix of strong and vulnerable and I just wanted her to have her every happiness.
I also loved that we got to see the rest of the Buckley’s and got that cozy small town feel that I just love. The banter was top notch and watching Lexi and Devlin fall for each other has me melting.
This book is a top read of the year, it’s fantastic, spicy, emotional, fun and flirty and I can’t get over how much I loved it. Fans of Melanie old and new are going to LOVE this one. And if you are like me and LOVE marriage of convenience, pick this one up now! Don’t wait!!!
Thank you to Melanie Harlow and Valentine PR for the ARC of this book. My review is voluntary and honest.
December 1, 2023
What a short and sweet book, I’m ending November on a high note! I’ve loved this series so far, and this book was no exception. When we meet Lexi, she’s not having the best day. She finds out that she can only inherit her family’s ski lodge if she’s married. To add insult to injury, Lexi’s grandmother is meeting with some sleazy salesman to talk about selling the resort AND she guilted Lexi into going on a date with her dentist. Well, jokes on her because the date sucked, but the handsome stranger she went home with definitely did not suck. Only…her one-night stand Devlin turns out to be the sleazy salesman. Turns out…he totally sucks.
Devlin is horrified when he realizes Lexi thinks he played her. He would never do something underhanded for a sale. Granted, he really wants this sale. But when he finds out that his asshole boss is handing the account over to his arch nemesis after he doesn’t close the deal, Devlin not only quits, but proposes a situationship to Lexi. Marry him, and she will inherit the lodge that he will help her renovate. He gets revenge against his asshole ex-colleague, and she gets the lodge. Win-win! I mean, at least for me it was. I got a cute story with some of my favorites from stories past, with a side of my favorite dessert, My Wife! And I loved Lexi, she was so sweet and firey, perfect to Devlin’s smooth-talking perfection.
Devlin is horrified when he realizes Lexi thinks he played her. He would never do something underhanded for a sale. Granted, he really wants this sale. But when he finds out that his asshole boss is handing the account over to his arch nemesis after he doesn’t close the deal, Devlin not only quits, but proposes a situationship to Lexi. Marry him, and she will inherit the lodge that he will help her renovate. He gets revenge against his asshole ex-colleague, and she gets the lodge. Win-win! I mean, at least for me it was. I got a cute story with some of my favorites from stories past, with a side of my favorite dessert, My Wife! And I loved Lexi, she was so sweet and firey, perfect to Devlin’s smooth-talking perfection.
November 22, 2023
This one was exactly what I needed to get over a reading slump on a cold/rainy day when my kids are driving my up the wall. Lol.
Every page had so many awesome lines that I wish I could insert all of them that made me laugh but unfortunately GR doesn't allow it but this is definitely going to be a re-read for me in my slump times....
PS: Only reason it didn't get 5 stars from me is because I wanted more in the end with a couple of kids to see what an awesome Dad he would make. I know. I'm being picky but I still wanted that scene. Lol.
“So let’s talk,” I said. “In case anyone asks, what made you fall in love with me so fast?”
“Desperation.”
“Come on,” I prodded. “You have to find something about me attractive.”
She sighed heavily. “Fine. You have a nice face.”
“That’s it? Try to be more specific.” I was just fucking with her, but she actually answered the question.
“When we first met, your eyes made me want to go swimming.”
“Swimming?”
“They looked like the ocean,” she said with a shrug.
“Thank you.” I glanced at her. “That’s actually very sweet.”
She took another sip of her coffee. “That’s all you’re getting. You’ve reached the bottom of my sweet barrel.”
Laughing, I signaled and merged onto the highway. “Well, I took one look at you from across the room and said, that is the girl for me.”
----
I gave her a sappy look. “Until I met you, kitten.”
She scrunched up her face like she’d stepped in dog shit. “Nope.”
“Doll face?”
“Try again.”
“Boo thang?”
“Try harder.”
“The old ball and chain?”
She laughed. “Try it and see what happens. So what should I call you?”
“Daddy, of course.”
She snorted. “In your dreams.”
-----
“You certainly didn’t. So I thought you were just a con artist.”
“I’m not. I promise. Next question.”
She checked her screen again and laughed. “Do you like it when people play with your hair?”
“I guess I don’t dislike it. But if you’re looking for something to play with, I have other suggestions.”
“I’m sure you do,” she said drily. “But I think this question is supposed to be about what relaxes you, not what turns you on.”
---
“So what relaxes you?”
I hesitated. “Can you keep a secret?”
“You’d better hope so.”
“I’m serious. This can’t get out. It will ruin my reputation as an alpha male.”
She snickered. “Tell me.”
I rubbed a finger beneath my lower lip, like I was doubtful she could be trusted with a confidence.
“Devlin. Tell me.” She slapped my shoulder.
“Fine. I like the occasional bubble bath.”
She burst out laughing. “You like bubble baths?”
“Yes. But a manly bubble bath. With manly-smelling bubbles. None of that fruity, flowery girly shit.”
“I’m not sure I want to know what man-bubbles smell like.”
“Bourbon and cedar,” I told her. “With just a hint of coriander.”
“That is very specific.”
“It���s the scent of my shower gel, and lucky for you, I packed some. You can try it out. Our room has a big tub.”
Every page had so many awesome lines that I wish I could insert all of them that made me laugh but unfortunately GR doesn't allow it but this is definitely going to be a re-read for me in my slump times....
PS: Only reason it didn't get 5 stars from me is because I wanted more in the end with a couple of kids to see what an awesome Dad he would make. I know. I'm being picky but I still wanted that scene. Lol.
“So let’s talk,” I said. “In case anyone asks, what made you fall in love with me so fast?”
“Desperation.”
“Come on,” I prodded. “You have to find something about me attractive.”
She sighed heavily. “Fine. You have a nice face.”
“That’s it? Try to be more specific.” I was just fucking with her, but she actually answered the question.
“When we first met, your eyes made me want to go swimming.”
“Swimming?”
“They looked like the ocean,” she said with a shrug.
“Thank you.” I glanced at her. “That’s actually very sweet.”
She took another sip of her coffee. “That’s all you’re getting. You’ve reached the bottom of my sweet barrel.”
Laughing, I signaled and merged onto the highway. “Well, I took one look at you from across the room and said, that is the girl for me.”
----
I gave her a sappy look. “Until I met you, kitten.”
She scrunched up her face like she’d stepped in dog shit. “Nope.”
“Doll face?”
“Try again.”
“Boo thang?”
“Try harder.”
“The old ball and chain?”
She laughed. “Try it and see what happens. So what should I call you?”
“Daddy, of course.”
She snorted. “In your dreams.”
-----
“You certainly didn’t. So I thought you were just a con artist.”
“I’m not. I promise. Next question.”
She checked her screen again and laughed. “Do you like it when people play with your hair?”
“I guess I don’t dislike it. But if you’re looking for something to play with, I have other suggestions.”
“I’m sure you do,” she said drily. “But I think this question is supposed to be about what relaxes you, not what turns you on.”
---
“So what relaxes you?”
I hesitated. “Can you keep a secret?”
“You’d better hope so.”
“I’m serious. This can’t get out. It will ruin my reputation as an alpha male.”
She snickered. “Tell me.”
I rubbed a finger beneath my lower lip, like I was doubtful she could be trusted with a confidence.
“Devlin. Tell me.” She slapped my shoulder.
“Fine. I like the occasional bubble bath.”
She burst out laughing. “You like bubble baths?”
“Yes. But a manly bubble bath. With manly-smelling bubbles. None of that fruity, flowery girly shit.”
“I’m not sure I want to know what man-bubbles smell like.”
“Bourbon and cedar,” I told her. “With just a hint of coriander.”
“That is very specific.”
“It���s the scent of my shower gel, and lucky for you, I packed some. You can try it out. Our room has a big tub.”
November 23, 2023
I used to love Melanie Harlows books but for some reason i just can’t get into them anymore and it makes me sad. I was really excited for this book but it just didn’t hit the way her books usually do for me
December 10, 2023
i devoured this!!!!!!!! i love everything melanie harlow writes i stg😭
basically Lexi needs to save her family’s ski resort and she ends up in a marriage of convenience with Devlin! I loved these two so so so much! ii’ve be loving this new series but this one is definitely my favorite so far!!! i’m a sucker for marriage of convenience and this didn’t disappoint.
ps. loved the cameo by winn and the girls!!!
basically Lexi needs to save her family’s ski resort and she ends up in a marriage of convenience with Devlin! I loved these two so so so much! ii’ve be loving this new series but this one is definitely my favorite so far!!! i’m a sucker for marriage of convenience and this didn’t disappoint.
ps. loved the cameo by winn and the girls!!!
December 10, 2023
Absolutely one of my favorite books of 2023 by one of my can’t-miss authors. I loved everything about it. It had everything I like in a romance: fantastic chemistry between the hero and heroine, an interesting storyline, realistic dialogue, plenty of steamy scenes, and wonderful storytelling by the author with plenty of detail that kept me turning the pages but reluctant to turn those pages because it meant I was getting closer to the end of the book! If you’re a fan of authors like Sarina Bowen, Meghan Quinn, or Robin Carr (all authors who are great at small town romances) you’ll love this author and all of her series. I love this series and I especially loved this book. I fell in love with Devlin and Lexi and I enjoyed every high and low of their beautiful romance.
I’d love to see this as a movie!
5 big stars
I’d love to see this as a movie!
5 big stars
November 21, 2023
“Wife,” I said through clenched teeth. She took her mouth off me and laughed throatily. “I love when you say it like that.” “Like what?” “Like you might lose control if I don’t behave.”
This was such a sweet and wholesome marriage of convenience book! Devlin & Lexi met in a bar as practically strangers and then meet again and have to lay a huge foundation called marriage to get what they both respectively want. I loved how they went from being strangers to friends to a couple! Their connection was amazing and the way they slowly got used to each other to the point that they couldn't stay away was so cute! Both of them were great characters but somewhere I felt like something was missing in the book. Also, the issue with the snowboarding lodge was resolved very abruptly in the epilogue. It should've been given more focus as it was the most important thing for Lexi and the whole plot revolved around that lodge. The epilogue itself also could've been written better tbh but still, it was a pretty engaging and enjoyable read. It was fast paced and had me swooning and laughing at some parts. So overall it was a 3.75 star read for me.
This was such a sweet and wholesome marriage of convenience book! Devlin & Lexi met in a bar as practically strangers and then meet again and have to lay a huge foundation called marriage to get what they both respectively want. I loved how they went from being strangers to friends to a couple! Their connection was amazing and the way they slowly got used to each other to the point that they couldn't stay away was so cute! Both of them were great characters but somewhere I felt like something was missing in the book. Also, the issue with the snowboarding lodge was resolved very abruptly in the epilogue. It should've been given more focus as it was the most important thing for Lexi and the whole plot revolved around that lodge. The epilogue itself also could've been written better tbh but still, it was a pretty engaging and enjoyable read. It was fast paced and had me swooning and laughing at some parts. So overall it was a 3.75 star read for me.
February 5, 2024
Had to catch up before Small Town Swoon.
Melanie Harlow is one of my go-tos for small town romance. I am always eagerly awaiting her next release. But no release is complete without the accompanying audio book. She always chooses some of the best narrators and CJ Bloom and Robert Hatchet did a spectacular job.
This was so good. I love a marriage of convenience. And I also love saving a family business.
While I didn't swoon for this quite as much as the previous release.. I still really enjoy this series and I look forward to the next one. Bring on more of this family!
4 stars
3 on the spice scale
Melanie Harlow is one of my go-tos for small town romance. I am always eagerly awaiting her next release. But no release is complete without the accompanying audio book. She always chooses some of the best narrators and CJ Bloom and Robert Hatchet did a spectacular job.
This was so good. I love a marriage of convenience. And I also love saving a family business.
While I didn't swoon for this quite as much as the previous release.. I still really enjoy this series and I look forward to the next one. Bring on more of this family!
4 stars
3 on the spice scale
November 10, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
✨️Marriage of convenience
✨️One night stand
✨️Enemies to lovers
✨️Small town
I love Melanie Harlow's books, and I was really looking forward to reading this one. And I gotta say, this has become my favorite among all her books I've read so far.
Lexi and Devlin are two characters I loved right from the start. They have incredible chemistry, and when they're together, it's just filled with so many funny and cute moments. Every time Devlin calls Lexi 'wife,' it's just... 🫠
Devlin always swore he wasn't into a serious relationship, but the way he is with Lexi from the start, it's like he was the only one who didn't realize what was right in front of him. More than undeniable chemistry, they truly understand and support each other always. And let's not forget the spice. Devlin is.. 🔥🔥🔥
This book brings a warm, cozy feeling. I loved Lexi's friendship with one of my favorite characters. 🤭 And I absolutely adore Devlin's family—seeing them again was wonderful.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review, but all opinions are my own.
Thank you so much, Valentine Pr and Melanie Harlow, for sending me this ARC.
🌶🌶🌶
✨️Marriage of convenience
✨️One night stand
✨️Enemies to lovers
✨️Small town
I love Melanie Harlow's books, and I was really looking forward to reading this one. And I gotta say, this has become my favorite among all her books I've read so far.
Lexi and Devlin are two characters I loved right from the start. They have incredible chemistry, and when they're together, it's just filled with so many funny and cute moments. Every time Devlin calls Lexi 'wife,' it's just... 🫠
Devlin always swore he wasn't into a serious relationship, but the way he is with Lexi from the start, it's like he was the only one who didn't realize what was right in front of him. More than undeniable chemistry, they truly understand and support each other always. And let's not forget the spice. Devlin is.. 🔥🔥🔥
This book brings a warm, cozy feeling. I loved Lexi's friendship with one of my favorite characters. 🤭 And I absolutely adore Devlin's family—seeing them again was wonderful.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review, but all opinions are my own.
Thank you so much, Valentine Pr and Melanie Harlow, for sending me this ARC.
November 21, 2023
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Devlin Buckley comes from a big family and is the middle child of five siblings from a small lakeside town called Cherry Tree Harbor. He lives and works on the East Coast in Boston, and his career keeps him busy. He's good at his job brokering multi-million dollar real estate deals, and is soon heading close to his hometown to close a big deal. He needs to put on the charm and persuade an old lady to sell her family's historic ski resort. Then he crosses paths with her granddaughter, and everything he once thought was important changes.
Lexi McIntyre grew up in northern Michigan at her family's ski resort, Snowberry Lodge. All her happiest childhood memories were there, and the place meant everything to her, so when she learns a huge corporation plans to buy it and tear it down she's devastated. This was her life being negotiated, and she needed more time to convince her Gran not to sell. It will be a challenge, but she must hang on to her family's legacy. Nobody could understand what this place means to her. If she couldn't save her home, it would break her heart. She would do anything to keep it from being demolished, even marry the enemy. The only way she can inherit Snowberry Lodge is to get hitched, so when she's offered the perfect deal, she can't refuse. This plan was her only hope to renovate and keep the resort. She needed to keep their arrangement all business and professional, but she couldn't ignore how unbelievably hot Devlin was, or forget their one night together. As they work together toward their goal, pretending starts to feel all too real. In the end will they lose it all, or get everything they never knew they needed?
Make-Believe Match (Cherry Tree Harbor #3) by Melanie Harlow is a small town, fake relationship, marriage of convenience, forced proximity, enemies to lovers romance about family, unexpected connections, and fighting for what you love. It's a super steamy story full of chemistry, humor, plenty of heart and all the feels. I loved this book and these characters so much! It's my favorite of the series! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKZZ29R9?...
(ARC provided by author)
Devlin Buckley comes from a big family and is the middle child of five siblings from a small lakeside town called Cherry Tree Harbor. He lives and works on the East Coast in Boston, and his career keeps him busy. He's good at his job brokering multi-million dollar real estate deals, and is soon heading close to his hometown to close a big deal. He needs to put on the charm and persuade an old lady to sell her family's historic ski resort. Then he crosses paths with her granddaughter, and everything he once thought was important changes.
Lexi McIntyre grew up in northern Michigan at her family's ski resort, Snowberry Lodge. All her happiest childhood memories were there, and the place meant everything to her, so when she learns a huge corporation plans to buy it and tear it down she's devastated. This was her life being negotiated, and she needed more time to convince her Gran not to sell. It will be a challenge, but she must hang on to her family's legacy. Nobody could understand what this place means to her. If she couldn't save her home, it would break her heart. She would do anything to keep it from being demolished, even marry the enemy. The only way she can inherit Snowberry Lodge is to get hitched, so when she's offered the perfect deal, she can't refuse. This plan was her only hope to renovate and keep the resort. She needed to keep their arrangement all business and professional, but she couldn't ignore how unbelievably hot Devlin was, or forget their one night together. As they work together toward their goal, pretending starts to feel all too real. In the end will they lose it all, or get everything they never knew they needed?
Make-Believe Match (Cherry Tree Harbor #3) by Melanie Harlow is a small town, fake relationship, marriage of convenience, forced proximity, enemies to lovers romance about family, unexpected connections, and fighting for what you love. It's a super steamy story full of chemistry, humor, plenty of heart and all the feels. I loved this book and these characters so much! It's my favorite of the series! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKZZ29R9?...
November 11, 2023
I’m a snivelling mess. Gah that was so good. Melanie Harlow will always be the champion, gold medal winning, Queen of the grand gesture. Every time, she has me grinning and laughing and crying snotty, happy tears.
I loved this book. I want to go to the spa at Snowberry Lodge, I want to live in Cherry Tree Harbour and drink a margarita in the Broken Spoke.
If the cover model could meet me there and call me wife I would melt quicker than a snowflake on a red hot poker.
Everything about this story is perfect. I have to admit though that I thought I was tired of the whole fake marriage trope, but I’m delighted to say, I was wrong. Lexi and Devlin are just beautiful together. She trusts easily and falls hopelessly in love. Devlin thinks he’s never going to be still, doesn’t want marriage and a family and yet he’s a Buckley; it’s in his genes.
A fake Vegas wedding by an Elvis impersonator, classic. Loved it.
I was anticipating the grand gesture all the way through the book and it did not disappoint. I nailed it. Alllllllll the tears.
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all, Firefly. What’s yours gonna be?”
I loved this book. I want to go to the spa at Snowberry Lodge, I want to live in Cherry Tree Harbour and drink a margarita in the Broken Spoke.
If the cover model could meet me there and call me wife I would melt quicker than a snowflake on a red hot poker.
Everything about this story is perfect. I have to admit though that I thought I was tired of the whole fake marriage trope, but I’m delighted to say, I was wrong. Lexi and Devlin are just beautiful together. She trusts easily and falls hopelessly in love. Devlin thinks he’s never going to be still, doesn’t want marriage and a family and yet he’s a Buckley; it’s in his genes.
A fake Vegas wedding by an Elvis impersonator, classic. Loved it.
I was anticipating the grand gesture all the way through the book and it did not disappoint. I nailed it. Alllllllll the tears.
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all, Firefly. What’s yours gonna be?”
November 13, 2023
Dive into the snowy world of "Make-Believe Match," where Lexi McIntyre's dreams of inheriting Snowberry ski resort collide with unexpected romance. 😍 Lexi's emotional journey clashes with Devlin Buckley's logical approach, leading to a one-night-stand-turned-negotiation-turned-love story that's witty, steamy, and full of surprises. 🔥
Lexi, fueled by passion, battles her determined grandmother who wants her to seek love and have a husband. On the flip side, Devlin, the charming real estate whiz, thrives on logic, creating a dynamic where opposites attract. 💑 The negotiation dance brings unexpected benefits, adding layers to a fiery chemistry that defies their initial terms. 🔥
In this enemies-to-lovers story, the couple navigates a marriage of convenience with humor and forced proximity, showcasing the messy beauty of unexpected love. 😅 The supporting cast injects doses of fun, drama, and unwavering support, creating a heartwarming small-town romance. ❤️
"Make-Believe Match" proves that while terms and rules may look good on paper, love unpredictability adds the perfect twist to life's journey. 📖✨ Discover the delightful chaos of unexpected connections in this charming tale.
#MakeBelieveMatch #RomanceReads #BookReview #SmallTownLove #OppositesAttract #SwoonyRomance #BookishLove #UnexpectedLove #InstaReads
Lexi, fueled by passion, battles her determined grandmother who wants her to seek love and have a husband. On the flip side, Devlin, the charming real estate whiz, thrives on logic, creating a dynamic where opposites attract. 💑 The negotiation dance brings unexpected benefits, adding layers to a fiery chemistry that defies their initial terms. 🔥
In this enemies-to-lovers story, the couple navigates a marriage of convenience with humor and forced proximity, showcasing the messy beauty of unexpected love. 😅 The supporting cast injects doses of fun, drama, and unwavering support, creating a heartwarming small-town romance. ❤️
"Make-Believe Match" proves that while terms and rules may look good on paper, love unpredictability adds the perfect twist to life's journey. 📖✨ Discover the delightful chaos of unexpected connections in this charming tale.
#MakeBelieveMatch #RomanceReads #BookReview #SmallTownLove #OppositesAttract #SwoonyRomance #BookishLove #UnexpectedLove #InstaReads
November 12, 2023
Oh. My. God. I absolutely LOVED this book! So wholesome, full of feels and with a healthy dose of found family...how could you ever go wrong with that? Also, the "my wife" moments made me FERAL y'all. Devlin and Lexi were everything and I thoroughly enjoyed reading their story. If you're looking for a sweet but spicy marriage of convenience romance with no drama and that's set in a small town, then Make Believe Match is the book for you!!!
*Thank you to Melanie Harlow and Valentine PR for providing me with an ARC!
*Thank you to Melanie Harlow and Valentine PR for providing me with an ARC!
November 25, 2023
"I would say this is the best book in the series. Love Lexi & Devlin 💕
This was a fast and easy read with all the spicy, swoon-worthy smut.
✨At first, I didn't actually like Devlin, but I grew to like him more for the way he supported Lexi and was honest with her in their conversations. I loved how he kept calling her 'wife' even before they were married (which is so hot 😂)!
✨Lexi is so relatable, strong, and stubborn. I see myself in her 🥰, and I loved how she never let anyone trample over her. She and Devlin have such a great relationship, with all the chemistry between them and their funny banter."
Tropes:
Marriage of convenience
Close proximity
One bed
One night stand
Enemies to lovers
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a fast and easy read with all the spicy, swoon-worthy smut.
✨At first, I didn't actually like Devlin, but I grew to like him more for the way he supported Lexi and was honest with her in their conversations. I loved how he kept calling her 'wife' even before they were married (which is so hot 😂)!
✨Lexi is so relatable, strong, and stubborn. I see myself in her 🥰, and I loved how she never let anyone trample over her. She and Devlin have such a great relationship, with all the chemistry between them and their funny banter."
Tropes:
Marriage of convenience
Close proximity
One bed
One night stand
Enemies to lovers
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
November 6, 2023
5⭐️
3🌶️
First off I am so grateful to receive an ARC from Melanie, this is was one of my most anticipated books of the year and it didn’t disappoint.
I freaking LOVED THIS!
I love the marriage of convenience trope and it was done so well. You could tell from Devlin and Lexi’s first encounter that they had undeniable chemistry.
Secondly I loved the setting, the ski resort in the winter in the mountains it just sounded so cozy and romantic.
Thirdly. AHHHHH! I love them so much! I can’t tell you how many times I laughed out loud from the humour between Dev and Lexi. I had to read parts out to my husband because it was so good. I also loved the friendships in here. It was so sweet and makes your heart feel warm and full.
Dev and Lex are so perfect for each other, they lean on each other when they need to, they keep one another happy, they laugh together and do all these small things for each other that actually mean the world to one another.
I just loved them so much and I need more of them!
3🌶️
First off I am so grateful to receive an ARC from Melanie, this is was one of my most anticipated books of the year and it didn’t disappoint.
I freaking LOVED THIS!
I love the marriage of convenience trope and it was done so well. You could tell from Devlin and Lexi’s first encounter that they had undeniable chemistry.
Secondly I loved the setting, the ski resort in the winter in the mountains it just sounded so cozy and romantic.
Thirdly. AHHHHH! I love them so much! I can’t tell you how many times I laughed out loud from the humour between Dev and Lexi. I had to read parts out to my husband because it was so good. I also loved the friendships in here. It was so sweet and makes your heart feel warm and full.
Dev and Lex are so perfect for each other, they lean on each other when they need to, they keep one another happy, they laugh together and do all these small things for each other that actually mean the world to one another.
I just loved them so much and I need more of them!
November 9, 2023
Gosh I loved this book so much! I loved the characters, the storyline, everything about it! It was cute and super spicy. I was surprised the spice started in Chapter 2, but I was all for it! Some of those scenes had me blushing! I loved the chemistry between Devlin and Lexi. I’ve been really in to the marriage of convenience trope and this one was great! I’ve loved this whole series so far and I think this one is my favorite!
Also the cover model for this book is 🔥🔥 definitely a great match for Delvin’s character.
Also the cover model for this book is 🔥🔥 definitely a great match for Delvin’s character.
November 23, 2023
I need a moment of silence for this cover model pls because holy shit 🥵 Ok I’m done drooling now. It felt so good to be back in Cherry Tree Harbor and I’ve been very anxious to get to Devlin’s story. Add in the amazing tropes and I was hooked by it after just one chapter. Lexi and Devlin went from a one night stand to enemies to a marriage of convenience and I was sooo here for it. Delvin never wanted to get married anyway so he sees no harm in helping Lexi out, he genuinely likes her and they have 🔥chemistry both in and out of the bedroom. These two had great banter too and the my wife moments made me lose my mind. Lexi’s sweet little grandma cracked me up, she was meddling and manipulative and made me miss my own grandma. Seeing the rest of the Buckley family was the icing on the cake and George Buckley made me so emotional IYKYK 🥹 Overall another fantastic addition to a series I’m just loving, Melanie is one of my favorites and I’m already dying to get the next book.
November 24, 2023
I feel like I'm the only person who doesn't like this???😭. I've tried to read this for the past 2 days but I can't get past 30%
Lexi annoyed the hell out of me😭
I just think this series isn't for me tbh
Lexi annoyed the hell out of me😭
I just think this series isn't for me tbh
November 9, 2023
Make-Believe Match: ★ ★ ★ ★ . 2 5
Melanie Harlow (Cherry Tree Harbor #3)
“I’ll marry this woman as many times as she’ll let me.”
Lexi is trying to save her family ski resort from a sale the only way that's possible–getting married. The fake marriage turns into real feelings... yep, it's a tale as old as time. (And one I will eat up every single time.)
Tropes:
– Marriage of convenience
– Small town romance
– Forced proximity
– One night stand
Lexi and Devlin's story was so good and without a doubt, the best one of the entire series so far! It was such a quick, swoony read that hooks you in and before you know it, you're almost done. I didn't even know where the time went as I was devouring this one.
I love fake dating/marriage of convenience and pair that with my favorite small town author ever and you have a recipe for success, in my books. I loved Devlin and Lexi's banter, the sweetness of their relationship, and all the "fake" moments that weren't really. The no-strings attached arrangement was hot, hot, hot (the tie scene omg) and the way they relied on each other as business partners and friends was so cute. More than anything, the "my wife" was so hot. Devlin was obsessed with calling Lexi his wife and took every single opportunity to do so.
For two adults who honestly communicated so well throughout the whole book, the third act conflict split was a touch disappointing. I would have loved to see the both of them against people trying to bring them down (ahem) as the conflict, if needed, rather than split them up for whatever reason.
Melanie Harlow will always be my favorite small town author and this trope with her amazing, addicting writing is another reason why she's one of the best. I have been saying this literally since Book 1 but I can't wait to see Dash and Ari's story play out. Feels so angsty and right up my alley. So you can bet that when that one releases, I'll be all over it.
ARC kindly shared by author for an honest review.
Melanie Harlow (Cherry Tree Harbor #3)
“I’ll marry this woman as many times as she’ll let me.”
Lexi is trying to save her family ski resort from a sale the only way that's possible–getting married. The fake marriage turns into real feelings... yep, it's a tale as old as time. (And one I will eat up every single time.)
Tropes:
– Marriage of convenience
– Small town romance
– Forced proximity
– One night stand
Lexi and Devlin's story was so good and without a doubt, the best one of the entire series so far! It was such a quick, swoony read that hooks you in and before you know it, you're almost done. I didn't even know where the time went as I was devouring this one.
I love fake dating/marriage of convenience and pair that with my favorite small town author ever and you have a recipe for success, in my books. I loved Devlin and Lexi's banter, the sweetness of their relationship, and all the "fake" moments that weren't really. The no-strings attached arrangement was hot, hot, hot (the tie scene omg) and the way they relied on each other as business partners and friends was so cute. More than anything, the "my wife" was so hot. Devlin was obsessed with calling Lexi his wife and took every single opportunity to do so.
For two adults who honestly communicated so well throughout the whole book, the third act conflict split was a touch disappointing. I would have loved to see the both of them against people trying to bring them down (ahem) as the conflict, if needed, rather than split them up for whatever reason.
Melanie Harlow will always be my favorite small town author and this trope with her amazing, addicting writing is another reason why she's one of the best. I have been saying this literally since Book 1 but I can't wait to see Dash and Ari's story play out. Feels so angsty and right up my alley. So you can bet that when that one releases, I'll be all over it.
ARC kindly shared by author for an honest review.
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