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You’ve heard the story about the wedding planner who falls for the groom?

Well, this is the one where she falls for his father.

And that groom? He’s my ex.

I didn’t realize who the gruff, gorgeous older man was the night he rescued me from a creep in a Manhattan hotel. All I knew was that a hot, bearded stranger with a protective streak showed up right when I needed a reminder that real gentlemen still exist.

(Although he left his manners behind after asking me up to his room.)

It was the hottest night of my life, but I never thought I’d see the former Navy SEAL again.

Imagine my surprise at the rehearsal dinner one week later, when my handsome stranger is introduced as the father of the groom. Even more surprising? What we felt in New York was no fluke.

In public, we pretend there’s nothing between us.

In private, we can’t keep our hands off each other.

The situation is beyond complicated. Zach never even knew he’d fathered a child until recently, and he wants to earn his son’s trust and respect. As for me, I’m looking for a man who wants to start a family, and Zach has made it clear he’s not that man. He’s older, newly divorced, and he lives across the country.

But no matter how many times we draw the line, we keep crossing it.

Nothing so wrong should ever feel so right.

314 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 21, 2022

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About the author

Melanie Harlow

70 books18.9k followers
USA 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...

Find me!
Website→harlow.pub/web
Newsletter→harlow.pub/mh-news
Amazon→harlow.pub/amazon
Instagram→harlow.pub/insta
Bookbub→harlow.pub/bb
Reader Group→harlow.pub/harlots
Facebook→harlow.pub/ap

FULL LIST OF BOOKS:

Series:
Drive Me Wild (Bellamy Creek #1) by Melanie Harlow Make Me Yours (Bellamy Creek #2) by Melanie Harlow

Irresistible (Cloverleigh Farms, #1) by Melanie Harlow Undeniable (Cloverleigh Farms, #2) by Melanie Harlow Insatiable (Cloverleigh Farms, #3) by Melanie Harlow Unbreakable (Cloverleigh Farms, #4) by Melanie Harlow Unforgettable (Cloverleigh Farms, #5) by Melanie Harlow

Only You (One and Only, # 1) by Melanie Harlow Only Him (One and Only, #2) by Melanie Harlow Only Love (One and Only, #3) by Melanie Harlow

Man Candy (After We Fall, #1) by Melanie Harlow After We Fall (After We Fall, #2) by Melanie Harlow If You Were Mine (After We Fall #3) by Melanie Harlow From This Moment (After We Fall, #4) by Melanie Harlow

Frenched (Frenched, #1) by Melanie Harlow Yanked (Frenched, #1.5) by Melanie Harlow Forked (Frenched, #2) by Melanie Harlow Floored (Frenched, #3) by Melanie Harlow

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5 stars
11,524 (43%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,413 reviews
Profile Image for Christy.
4,121 reviews34.7k followers
March 6, 2023
5 stars 



It’s been a while since I’ve read a Melanie Harlow book but when I saw the blurb for this one, I knew I had to read it and I’m so glad I did. I loved this book so much! Zach and Millie’s story was emotional and sweet, but had the angst that comes from all those forbidden feels.

Zach and Millie meet in NYC when flights get delayed due to weather. They spend the night at the hotel bar talking and getting to know one another then things progress from there. It’s a night neither of them will forget. And even though Millie wants to reach out, they live so far apart it seems impossible so she lets it go. Then, she sees him. In her hometown. At a wedding she’s planning. The wedding of her ex-boyfriend. And Zach is the grooms father.

Of course Zach only recently found out he had an adult son. He was in the Navy and Mason’s mother never let him know she was pregnant or had a child. It’s a shock to everyone. Once Zach and Millie know what they know, they decide they can’t communicate or be together. But when I tell you these two have this pull that can’t be fought. It’s such a strong connection and the chemistry is insane.

This is the best kind of age gap romance, the hero is 46 or 47 and the heroine is 32, neither of them are immature and they really compliment each other. Millie has big dreams and I love that she doesn’t give them up or make them smaller for anyone. And Zach is nothing but supportive. Even though there is angst with the hiding of their relationship etc, their actual relationship is so healthy and it was refreshing.

Overall there was basically nothing I didn’t like about this book. I read it in less than 24 hours because I was obsessed with Millie and Zach and now that I’ve read it I want to go back and read Millie’s sisters books because I’m so curious. Highly recommend this one!
Profile Image for Phuong ✯.
665 reviews7,631 followers
November 21, 2022
– 3.5 stars

tropes:
➺ age gap (h: 32, H: 47)
➺ ex-boyfriend’s dad
➺ secret relationship
➺ small town
➺ one night stand/friends with benefits


Melanie Harlow just knows how to write sweet, fun, small town romances. i’ve been loving all the books in the 2nd generation Cloverleigh Farms series so far.

Plot

Millie (h) and Zach (H) meet for the first time in NY in a bar and share a connection after Zach saved Millie from another creeper. They spent one hot unforgettable night together before they part ways. One months later, Millie and Zach meet again at the wedding reception of Millie’s ex boyfriend Manson who is also Zach’s newfound son. Zach and Millie try to stay away from each other, but every time they meet in private all bets are off and quickly it turns into a secret relationship.


“You are infuriatingly, indecently beautiful,” I told her. “And I might never forgive you for making me want you so badly.”


💒 Millie and Zach were both likeable and very mature characters that knew what they wanted in life (or what they didn’t). i loved that both of the characters worked in an area that were very personal to them. for Millie it’s wedding planner turned bridal shop and for Zach it’s working in security who was in the Navy Seal.

💒 i usually stay far away from one night stand romances, since they take the tension away when the main characters already fuck so early. but i liked Millie and Zach’s chemistry from the get go and they were so hot together that i didn’t mind, cause they make this trope work. i’ve only read 5 MH’s novels so far, but Tempt has to be the hottest so far.

💒 when i heard it would be an ex-dad’s story it immediately spiked my interest, cause hello spicy 👀 i expected something along Birthday girl by Penelope Douglas, but it wasn’t as forbidden, because Zach only recently found out that he has an adult son, so it wasn’t even that forbidden in my eyes. i still loved how Zach and Millie had to sneak around to get their alone time like hormonal teenagers who couldn’t get their hands off each other.

💒 it was hilarious how both Millie and Zach would try to stop, because they feel bad lying to Mason and their family, but they would still end up in each other hotel rooms/home. even when they tried to delete the other’s phone number. they were just a lost cause. 😭🤚 the secrecy was good until it wasn’t. while i really enjoyed it, at some point it got a bit repetitive and it wasn’t even that forbidden. like sure Mason was Millie’s ex, but they were more friends than lovers. Millie even introduced his wife to him so it didn’t make that much sense why Millie & Zach had to keep their relationship from Mason for so long.

💒 Millie’s relationship with her whole family was awesome. i loved the sisterly bond between Millie, Winnie and Felicity.

💒 all the previous couples in the series Dex/Winnie, Felicity/Hutton and even Ellie/Gianni got a small cameos in this book and i loved getting a glimpse of all the couples futures and what they are doing.

Conclusion

Tempt in typical Melanie Harlow fashion was very low on the angst scale, but still very fun to read. would definitely recommend picking up this book (and series) if you’re looking for a quick and sweet small town romance.

P.S. don't forget to read the bonus epilogue on Melanie's website. All her additional bonus content for each book is so cute.


*ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review

┍━━━━━━━━━━━━━┑
CLOVERLEIGH FARMS SERIES

#6 Ignite – 3.25 stars
#7 Taste – 3.75 stars
#8 Tease – 3.75 stars
#9 Tempt – 3.5 stars
┕━━━━━━━━━━━━━┙
Profile Image for NMmomof4.
1,597 reviews4,333 followers
June 19, 2023
3 Stars

Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise and blurb. The sisters.

The Not-So-Good: The ending. It was one of those that has the conflict "resolved" then jumps right into the epilogue that gives us a stamp of closure and that was it. I needed to understand more about how they worked out those major issues (👇🏻) before getting there!

The Bad: The lack of depth. I think this had the potential for some major yummy angst! Not just with the ex, but with things like him living across the country and not wanting what she wanted in life . I think that these major issues were too easily "resolved" but not given nearly enough attention. This seems to be something specifically that was an issue with the other book I read from this author, so this could just be a me thing in not meshing well with her writing style.

I also have never been a fan of the curvy lady spin. I am not a thin woman, especially after 4 kiddos! I sympathize on not finding the right fit in things. I do not, however, want to be preached to about the size-ist people of the world. I get that she was curvy herself and she rocked it, I get that her business idea was to help serve the curvy women in her area, and I get that other women were frustrated with the lack of options for them in the wedding dress world -- but! It was way too repetitive and activist-like. It actually became kind of annoying tbh because if we love everyone for what they are, why do we need to keep referencing their differences. If I'm brutally honest, it felt like a thin woman writing about a curvy girl and over compensating to be sure to be "inclusive"...but that's just me 🤷🏻‍♀️

Overall: I realize after starting this that I had read about this h's dad and her step-mom's story and really struggled. Here's my ranty review for that: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4.... I went back and re-read my review and a lot of things I struggled with here were similar to what I struggled with with that book -- so I might just not mesh with this author's style. I'm, again, just going with a middle of the road rating because I didn't love it or hate it.

Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Millie and Zack's story. Millie is away from her small town when her sister talks her into going to the hotel bar and being spontaneous by picking up a stranger. She does and has a hot night with Zach. A while later, and after not forgetting the other, they are shocked to find that they are connected in an awkward way -- Millie is Zach's newly established adult son's ex girlfriend and she is planning said son's wedding. They try to stay away from each other, but simply cannot and they start a secret affair. There are some secrets revealed, some sexy times, and some big life changes...and they get a HFN ending.

Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Millie and Zach's POV.

Overall Pace of Story: Alright. There were some parts that felt a little too slow or even repetitive. I did skim some but I thought it flowed well for the most part.

Instalove:No. Instalust? Yes.

H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Zach. I liked him a little more than the h, but that might be because I'm typically harder on the hs. I appreciated his struggles but how he did try (for the most part) to do the right thing. I felt like we were teased with a few of his (potentially) deeper characteristics, but sadly, we just didn't get there.

h (heroine) rating: 3 stars. Millie. I thought she was just alright. Again, I saw the potential in getting deep with her character -- we just didn't.

Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed

Push/Pull: Yes

Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.

Descriptive sex: Yes

OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No

Sex scene with OW or OM: No

Cheating: No

Separation: Yes, a few short ones

Possible Triggers: Yes

Closure: This ends in a pretty good place but not with nearly enough closure for me to call it anything but a HFN ending

Safety: This one should be Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
Profile Image for anmol.
188 reviews982 followers
November 22, 2022
made me want to bang my ex boyfriends dad without even having said ex boyfriend
Profile Image for monica ✨ romantasyreader.
473 reviews732 followers
November 15, 2022
4 ✨ Arc Review

“𝘽𝙖𝙗𝙮, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙬𝙚 𝙢𝙚𝙩.” 𝘗𝘭𝘢𝘺𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺, 𝘐 𝘣𝘪𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘨𝘩. “𝙉𝙤𝙬 𝙛𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙞𝙩 𝙤𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙙.”

I loooooved this. 𝘛𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘵 follows Millie, the oldest sibling of 4 sisters in small town Michigan, and Zach, and older ex-SEAL working in private security. Millie is a confident and caring fmc and I loved her pov so much, and Zach is protective and somewhat reserved in the beginning. After their flight out NYC gets cancelled and they find themselves at the hotel bar, they share an insane night together. But when he randomly shows up back in her life, it’s because her ex—who’s wedding she’s planning—is his son.

This was a fun twist on the ex’s dad trope. There was some angst, but there wasn’t a revenge subplot or any prior bad feelings between Millie and the ex, which was refreshing. While this book is low on angst, there is soooo much pining, which I absolutely eat up.

The tropes
💞 ex’s dad
💞 age gap
💞 small town
💞 confident plus sized fmc
💞 loveable side characters
💞 so much pining and longing
Profile Image for logan .
367 reviews2,961 followers
November 21, 2022
sat down to read a few chapters and accidentally read the whole thing bc OH MY GOD!?!?! SO GOOD. maybe her best ever?? i’m on cloud 9 rn. also, i want to be their third.

After Millie has a one night stand with a hot older guy at the hotel bar, she’s certain she will never see him again. but when their paths cross again a month later, things get more complicated. despite everything that should keep them apart, Zach & Millie just can’t stay away from each other. and my goodness their chemistry was off the charts hot.

What starts as strictly physical eventually turns to genuine trust and friendship. Zach is Millie’s biggest fan, and it’s the cutest thing ever. i loved the development of their relationship from start to finish! they had legitimate obstacles in their way, so i never felt like their “conflicts” were unnecessary or dramatic. Zach has a lot of personal things he has to come to terms with before he can be who Millie deserves. And I love that Millie stayed true to what she wanted. everything felt so natural and mature between them, and i just couldn’t love them more 🥹

I love love that this book had a plus size FMC, i personally felt like it was done so well. She didn’t shy away from how it impacted her confidence & her relationship with family growing up, but we also got to see her being hot and confident af as an adult. and I love that body positivity and inclusivity was such an inspiration for her new career path in the book!
Profile Image for Melanie Harlow.
Author 70 books18.9k followers
Read
November 20, 2023
✮ ✮ 𝗔𝗩𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗡𝗢𝗪 ✮ ✮

𝐴𝑟𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑦 𝑡𝑜 𝑚𝑒𝑒𝑡 𝑍𝑎𝑐ℎ 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑀𝑖𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑒?

✓ age gap
✓ older man
✓ younger woman
✓ ex’s father
✓ former Navy SEAL
✓ plus size FMC
✓ one night stand/chance encounter
✓ small town romance
✓ romantic comedy

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗧𝗲𝗺𝗽𝘁 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆! 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗶𝗻 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱!
✦ KU/Amazon → https://harlow.pub/Tempt-amazon
✦ Amazon Worldwide → https://mybook.to/temptMH
🎧 Audio → https://harlow.pub/Tempt-audible (Narrated by: Sebastian York & Lucy Rivers)
✦ Paperback → https://harlow.pub/Tempt-pb
✦ Special Edition Paperback → https://harlow.pub/Tempt-specialediti...

Profile Image for Kristie (read_between.the_wines).
170 reviews2,808 followers
November 15, 2022
GIVE ME A ZACH RIGHT NOW PLEASE AND THANK YOU!!

This is easily Melanie Harlow’s sexiest book to date!!!

I was lucky enough to get to alpha/beta read this beauty by Melanie Harlow. I have forever loved Melanie’s books, but this one will forever hold a special place in my heart.

This book is Melanie’s first plus size FMC. And although she is plus sized and we get a background of her not always loving her body as a teen growing up (thanks to being in ballet), she is extremely confident and quite frankly after they mention her life early on her size isn’t even mentioned again. So thus, we have a beautiful story of a plus size baddie getting plowed but an older hot man!

As a plus size woman myself, I felt seen in this book. The things that have been said to her in her past? I’ve heard them. The trouble shopping for clothes? I’ve dealt with that. Just wanting to be? I feel that every day. I personally loved how this story was handled, and I hope she does more plus size fmc in the future!

Millie is so fun. A lot of her reminded me of myself. I felt myself wanting to hug Millie when she was sad, laugh at her jokes and honestly I just wanted to be her best friend. She has never felt like she would get her Prince Charming… and she doesn’t get him, she gets his father, the freaking KING!

Zach.. Zach Zach Zach. If I could bottle him and sell him I would. My man has a dirty mouth, and body and isn’t afraid to use it. He sees Millie and is a goner - until he realizes she is his son’s ex girlfriend!!! He has a lot of past issues he has to work through and I loved how he just can’t let her go without a fight.

The push and pull was amazing, loved the spice and although this is a little instalusty it didn’t feel rushed. I already wish I could reread this book for the first time again 🥹

Overall, I completely adored this book and I’m sad to see Cloverleigh Farms end!!!

5/5 stars
3.5/5 spice

**arc for honest review**
Profile Image for babygyalreadit.
422 reviews733 followers
November 27, 2022
FIVE OUT OF FIVE FUCKING FANTASTIC STARS

What an incredible ride this was. You almost always know from the first 1-4 chapters that a book will blow you away & this one did NOT disappoint.

I was head over heels for both of these characters, I wanted them to win SO BAD. The chemistry and connection they had together was undeniable and they were so perfect for each other.

Can we talk about the fact that Millie is a plus sized FMC and the baddest bitch ever. The details and how this was handled was done so damn well and I personally felt represented.

Zach was so down bad for her ISTG he wanted to marry her on site. The fact that their first interaction was him saving her from an awkward and uncomfortable run in because he is just ugh big dick energy and such a gentleman? I DIE

I loved watching both of them grow together and separately. This is by far my favorite book by Melanie to date. Idk what kind of crack she put in here but I vote for more please.
Profile Image for Leticia (jerseygirlsbookshelf).
438 reviews239 followers
May 22, 2023
"Love—the greatest plot twist life has to offer."
I had to jump right into this one after Tease because I was already half in love with Millie. And I needed to know she would find a hero who was good enough for her.
Zach was everything she needed.

"Everything that came to mind was unspeakable. Sit on my face. Put your hand in my pants. Let me rub the tip of my cock on that little dimple that appears in your cheek when you smile."
Millie is a wedding planner, and she’s really good at her job. She’s also really good at "fixing" her boyfriends so they can go on and marry someone else. Always the wedding planner, never the bride. And it may not look that way, but she does mind it.
Bear in mind that Millie is unapologetically curvy, and I love that. As a curvy girl myself, I love to see this—especially when it’s not self-deprecating.

"Because it’s been a long time since a woman took my breath away."
On a dare from her sister, she goes down to the bar of the hotel where she’s stranded for the night. Unsurprisingly, she’s hit on—by a total douche. Until Zach comes to the rescue. She doesn’t need him to, mind you, but he does it anyway.
Because he’s been watching her from across the bar, and he’s not willing to let her go that easily.

"If I go up to your room, does that mean you’re going to keep your hands to yourself?" 
"No. My hands will be all over your body. My hands, my mouth, and my cock."

I mean, what’s one night? One night of indulging with a stranger they’ll probably never see again. OK, he’s older than she is, but does it matter when the attraction is this strong? Let me answer that—nope! And what a night they have!
When the morning comes, though, she needs to leave. And you know that they want more.

"I know it’s wrong, but I can’t leave without kissing you."
Fast forward to a rehearsal dinner a week later, with Millie in full-on wedding planning mode. For the wedding of her ex-boyfriend, no less, who introduces her to his long-lost dad. Yep, it’s Zach.
And it may be all sorts of wrong for them to be together, but then why does it feel so damn right?

"Every night we spent together only brought us closer. Every kiss made it harder to part. Every goodbye was an inevitable reminder that we had no future."
They’re unable to let go. Of course it’s physical, because the want between them is scorching, but there’s something else there. The need to belong to someone. The need to know you’re wanted and cared for. The need to be home.
So they lie.

"I’m not sure I’d have deserved you in any life, but I sure as hell would have tried."
They make up the time to be together—unofficially, of course—all the while pretending this is all about sex. Except when they start missing each other. And then it’s suddenly so much more.
I loved the push and pull. I loved that there was no added drama—it’s just two people who are perfect for each other but who have a lot of baggage to unpack. 

"You’re my north, south, east, and west, Millie Rose. You ground me, you guide me, you inspire me. And I’m madly in love with you."
It’s not just Zach’s son. It’s what they plan to do with their lives. It’s not knowing if their plans would fit, but that they most likely won’t. She wants a family. He doesn’t. They both think it’s bad to be sneaking around, but they need to realize why it’s bad.
It’s because they want to show how much they love each other.

"Home to me now is wherever you are, and no matter where I go, I will always make my way back to you."
In the meantime, there’s his job. There’s also the new job she found and the new career she’s embracing. There’s her sisters and their advice, and also Zach’s boss’ advice (loved him, by the way).
The one thing everyone agrees on? When it’s right, you go for it.

"When he held me, I was home."
I loved how unique their happily ever after was. Like all the puzzle pieces falling into place. And that bonus epilogue? Man, I feel so single.

Love really is the biggest plot twist. And sometimes you have to sit back and enjoy the ride.
Profile Image for Aviva’s Library.
282 reviews3,725 followers
December 16, 2022
Do you ever watch a movie trailor and decide that even though the trailor was entertaining, you’ve seen enough and don’t need to spend two hours getting the extra details to fill in the blanks? Well, that’s how I felt about this book —— I would have been content just watching the trailor.

The story was fine - very predictable and kind of exactly what I expected it to be… but nothing more. I wasn’t really connecting with either of the characters, but was into them just enough to keep reading. I think my issue was that I didn’t care in the slightest about anything that didn’t involve Millie and Zach interacting with each other — and there was a handful of other side story stuff going on… so I was bored pretty often.

I also felt like a lot of the story was repetitive - something happens, then one (or both) of them talks about it to their friend and/or sibling, and then they might re-think about the moment or even talk about it again with each other… it made me want to skim over so much of the book because I didn’t care enough to hear a scene I already saw be repeated again via girl talk or bro bonding moments.

I think the story in itself was fine for what it was and deserves a three stars for being a very easy/basic ex boyfriends father romance with a good amount of spice (I’m trying to be nice here… 🥴) — but on a personal level based off my actual in the moment enjoyment… it was more like a two stars because of how much I felt like skimming and how mehh I was about the whole thing. Buttt I’m giving it a three because I don’t think it technically sucked enough to deserve a two.
Profile Image for  Sonya ♕Chatterbooks book blog♕.
991 reviews1,148 followers
November 21, 2022
1669003293869

The one thing that I really like about this author is that she gives you all the feels when it comes to small town romance. You’re going to get swept up in the quaint little town, the loving people, and the thrill of finding that new kind of love and witnessing every moment from start to finish. This is what she brings to every book and this story was no different.

Millie Rose has always had big dreams of doing something on her own eventually but being a wedding planner for her family’s business is more than enough for her right now. She’s single, happy with her family life, and is enjoying being in the present. But one night at a hotel bar changes everything and decides to go out of her comfort zone, Millie embarks on something that she swore she would never do. When that moment resurfaces a few weeks later and makes things in her personal life more complicated, she has to decide whether if some things are worth fighting for.

foreheadkiss

I don't want to go too deep in the premise of the story but I will say that I really liked that this was a good forbidden romance. It took it’s time in the important parts and the characters actually spent a lot of time getting to know each other and building something good even though it was done in private the majority of the time. Despite a few bumps in the road that threw their romance off track for a little bit, there was still something that was genuine and deep with these characters and you felt their love. It was slow burn, hypnotic and it made you want to be a part of the family.


If you’re looking for a small town eyebrow raising romance, then this one’s for you.


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Profile Image for Kati *☆・゚.
839 reviews383 followers
Read
December 19, 2022
***no rating***


I loved this. Until I didn’t anymore.


Reading this book at first just made me feel good and super cozy. I loved the writing, the storyline, the characters and overall the whole setting. Not to mention that the mmc is a broad-shouldered, filthy hot alpha male with tattoos, ex-Navy SEAL and a gentleman.

The curvy bombshell Millie that is our fmc is the wedding planner at Cloverleigh Farms. Turns out that Zach, the super hot one-night-stand she had a month ago in New York, is the groom’s father at this weekend’s wedding and 15 yrs her senior. Oh yeah and… said groom is… her ex-boyfriend. So you see we have some pretty hot topics here. There was no way I was not tempted to read this with a premise like that.




But sadly, there was one thing that bugged the hell out of me. It always does.

“Wait,” she said between loud, panting breaths. “Do you have a condom?”
“No. But I’ve had a vasectomy.” […] I eased inside her, and we both groaned.


Uhm yeah… you guys know STDs are a thing, right?
Sadly this is one of the very few things that throw me off (and turn me off) so hard that I always contemplate if I can continue with that particular book at all. Imo romance authors have the responsibility that their characters stay safe when having sex - for the reader’s sake. I tried getting back into it after that because I liked this story very much but it was a struggle and I guess I failed.

I mean these guys were practically strangers to each other at that point and for me this is the kind of irresponsible behavior that lets me see the mcs, who I’m supposed to love, in a bad light (same as when they would drive drunkenly or smoke around children). An absolute no-go for me.

side note: don’t get me wrong. I find nothing hotter in romance than the couple (or whatever) ditching the condoms - but know they are safe in every way, not only regarding unwanted pregnancies.




The book was still good, objectively speaking, but after that I wasn’t feeling it anymore.

This is the latest release in the series and my first Melanie Harlow book - I really hope this is not her usual MO because then, sadly, this author isn’t for me - I hope it’s not because I’d love to give this author another chance one day.
Profile Image for Jenn (The Book Refuge).
2,141 reviews3,313 followers
November 19, 2022
*Thank you to the Author and Valentine PR for an ARC of this book.*

I have been reading Melanie Harlow romances for 3 plus years now and I can honestly say, this is my favorite one. Not only do I feel a kinship with Millie for where she is in her life but I also have a thing for a salt and pepper hero. lols! In all seriousness, I took such joy in reading this story and the romance between Millie and Zach was so beautiful.

I kind of had a certain song by Journey going through my head at the beginning of this book. Two strangers meeting in a bar and having a night to remember... then they go their separate ways and don't think they will ever see each other again. They try to keep the memories close and can't help but fantasize about how good it was but they know it will just have to stay that way.

But lucky for them, and for us, they are fated to meet again. Only this time... it's the day before Zach's son's wedding. The wedding that Millie planned for him. And oh yeah, she's also his ex-girlfriend. Talk about an awkward but thrilling re-connection. It's the worst time and the worst way to meet again. But when fate gives you a second chance... how can you resist?

They are at very different places in their lives. Millie is 32, hoping to start a family and taking on her dream business. Zach is 47 and firmly a bachelor. But they just can't stay away. Their passion and even more so, their hearts, are too involved. Also, Zach is totally blown over by Millie's body and her confidence and is just obsessed with her from first sight. *sigh*

Of course this has some good steam and we do start out real strong with the One Night Stand action. Zach and Millie have blistering chemistry and they struggle to keep their hands off each other. However, the intimacy and genuine friendship they built through their conversations was what really stole my heart. I just ached to have them work it out.

I just genuinely loved these two SO much. This romance felt more mature and realistic than many I have read this year. Yeah, it's fantastical how they meet and have no clue how they are connected. But their issues and roadblocks are SO real. The conflict has a serious potential to hurt people and I was nervous about how it would play out.

I always struggle with 3rd acts in romance. I'm sure authors struggle to write them too, so I understand, but when I love a book like this I start to get that really tight gut as I wait for things to blow up. I am happy to say, this HEA was so beautiful and romantic. As I said at the top, this will be a Melanie Harlow favorite of mine for years to come.

5 stars
3 on the spice scale

CW: talk of loss of a young sibling
Profile Image for Catherine Cowles.
Author 35 books20.5k followers
Read
November 18, 2022
A swoony, spicy small town romance with all the forbidden feels! Tempt had me utterly addicted and staying up way past my bedtime for more of Millie and Zach. A must read for all small town romance fans.
Profile Image for Samantha (bookgramsaga reviews).
673 reviews782 followers
November 22, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

''Doing the right thing mattered to me. But in that moment, she mattered more''

Safety warnings:
- H 47 / h 32
- No cheating
- No OW/OM drama
- Loss of loved one
- HEA

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️

We finally get Millie's story!

This story involves Millie who is a wedding planner currently planning her ex-bf's wedding to a girl he was introduced to by Millie. To be honest I thought the ex-bf would be an absolute jerk to Millie or have some horrible actions made towards her, so it was really refreshing to see someone who was kind and was truly thankful for her help and for being introduced to the woman he was marrying.

However, that same ex-bf has been looking for his biological father (Zach) who just happens to have had NO idea he had a 28-year-old son and also happens to be the man Millie has a ONS with while she was in NYC.

They both cannot stop thinking about each other after that one night and they are separated for about a month. He gave her his business card, but she never used it. You could tell how much that one night had affected them.

Imagine the absolute shock and horror when both of our MMC's see each other at the rehearsal dinner. Unable to admit their true connection. I was horrified for them both when they blabbed each other’s name in front of everyone and were grilled about how they knew each other. Obviously they gave the G rated version of the night, but I swear you could hear the panic through the pages.

They cannot stand to be apart and their attractive is so prominent. They sneak around and basically have a secret affair, meeting in different cities for a few nights and lying to Mason (his son). Both in fear of what he would think, what people would say and also the massive elephant in the room about the fact Zach does not want to get married again or ever want to have a child. All these things are more reasons why they cannot work and despite telling each other over and over again that it's wrong and they should move on they cannot.

I understood their fear and I also understood why Zach was how he was. He never wanted any of these things, but I think he never found anyone that was worth wanting these things with. I'm glad he realised she was it and he wanted to give her everything she deserved and despite the fallout with Mason told him the truth (albeit Mason knew lol he saw them briefly). Also, I had to applaud Mason for never holding a grudge about their relationship - yes he was hurt but it was only because he wanted the truth and was lied to.

Another thing was Zach was truly freaking about being someone’s father, it was overwhelming for him since he never imagined it and now he was also going to be a grandpa??

One thing I really appreciated was how there was no big dramatic fight scene just for the sake of it. They both truly knew it would be near impossible for their relationship to work if the things that stopped it would forever haunt them. Millie never lashed out or made any childish decisions < so refreshing.

Millie was fantastic, she was ambitious, and I loved how caring she was. Zach was the ultimate alpha male - he had a dirty mouth on him that made me blush a few times lol

The proposal scene was really on brand with Millie tbh. It worked so well with her fashion show!

PLEASE READ THE EXTRA SCENE! We get to see them around 5 years or into the future. They are married and have two children.
Profile Image for Sonia.
1,053 reviews1,369 followers
January 20, 2023
This HAS to be the fastest burn by MH ever…

By 9%… 7% when it all begins… I was speechless. MH… girl… I was NOT ready… Jeeezus! There’s no FTB here!! We get every nitty gritty duuuuurtay detail, and I couldn’t get enough 😈.

Millie’s (32) at a wedding expo when she decides to unwind by going to a bar and right away notices an older, handsome man, Zach (47) as she walks in. A different man hits on her and he’s not taking the hint; luckily for her, the older man pretends to be her date. They talk and decide to go back to his room to get to “know” each other a little more…

Oh… do they ever 😈🥵💦🔥.

They leave on good terms, understanding that this was an amazing ONS.

And then they see each other again the following month- for Zach’s son’s wedding, who also happens to be Millie’s ex 😅😬🫣.

What I liked/loved: possible spoilers
—I won’t put 🔥 first (see, I can be a lady 😅sometimes 🤣). The lack of cringing I did. Theoretically, it would seem like I should be 😬 left and right since Millie was in a relationship with Zach’s son. Buuuut… Zach only met his son, Mason, months before. Mason’s mom never told him who his real father was. So Zach’s still adjusting to finding out he has an adult son. I feel like this helped their situation 🤷🏻‍♀️. Plus, Mason’s getting married and Millie’s helping with their wedding. It’s a win win for me 😅

—well or course I’m gonna say the 🔥. Oh lawd. Melanie Harlow really said “not enough 🔥 in my books? Hold my martini” and proved us all wrong. Because, these two bring the STEAM in STEAMY… the H in HOTTTTT, the D in DUUUURTAY… the… okay, you get it😅🤣. These two are insatiable 😅. Like, literally lol. I loooove all the times they just breathe the same air and just… A T T A C K each other🔥😅💦. They don’t come to play 💅. It makes the tension so delicious 🤤. And Zach, 😮‍💨, your skills are 🥵. Millie’s a lucky lady

—the side characters. I was so happy to see the MCs from the previous books 🥰. I love this entire series. I was silently fan girling lol

—the depth. Both Millie and Zach have some baggage, enough to bring in the right type of tension. Sure, they can turn a blind eye to what’s happening, but there are still problems they need to overcome

—the sneaking around 😈. These two are stealthier than #orn¥ teenagers 🤣🤣🤣… and they’re SOOOO addicted to each other 😉

—the plus size aspect. I’ve done my fair share of plus size FMCs and I loved the way it was portrayed here. As a bigger girl, I appreciated the attention to detail when it comes to the frustration bigger girls feel when shopping (even for a wedding dress). But, I also liked that it wasn’t just about plus sized girls, but inclusivity in general. (Spoiler: Millie opening up a business isn’t only for plus sized women- it’ll end up including all sizes)

—on that note, I loved how O B S E S S E D Zach is with Millie. With her curves, with her mind, with her taste 😉😮‍💨🔥

—the epilogues. MH does some of the best ones. The extended epilogue on her website is just so perfect 🥹❤️

What I wanted more of:
—more angst. There was definitely opportunities for more angst. Don’t get me wrong; I like it when it’s angst-free (or low enough to not make me shed tears) as well, but this would’ve felt more complete if it had more of it. Is there angst? Yes, but the potential for more was there. It didn’t deter me from feeling swoony by the end

—more of their “after.” We get an epilogue at the end of the book that takes place months later and then the extended bonus one is years later… but I wanted more 🤣🤣🤣 (I’ll never forget the one where they had been married many many many decades and I was bawling by the end lol)

Overall, I loved it! 🥰

⚠️safety squad⚠️spoilers ahead
-no cheating/sharing/owd
-omd- the h dated the H’s son… 😅😬 the OM is getting married, but still… 🫣
-praise kink/spanking/phone smex/role playing (bonus epilogue)
-H hasn’t had sex in over a year/it’s been a while for the h as well
-divorced H
-condoms/H has had a vasectomy 😒/then no condoms
-HEA/epilogues (months later)/bonus epilogue years later (with some surprises 🥹❤️ahem… BABIES!)
Profile Image for rach⭑.
595 reviews265 followers
December 6, 2022
3.5⭑

Tropes;
Age Gap - 15 years (32&47)
One Night Stand
Friends with Benefits
Plus Size Rep
Dual POV

This is my fourth book by Melanie Harlow and so far none have blown me away. I think they are enjoyable but not the best romances I’ve ever read.

I enjoyed the somewhat slow burn this book had. Both main characters have a one night stand and then continue meeting up ending up in a friends with benefits situation.

It was fun, fluffy and spicy. I still recommend it bc I know I’m picky with my ratings and other people would probs enjoy it much more than me lol.
Profile Image for The Romantic Rush Blog.
1,953 reviews898 followers
November 21, 2022
UTTERLY OBSESSED. Tempt is devastatingly romantic, powerfully emotive, and epically swoony- a pitch perfect love story from start to finish. I devoured this in one deliciously consuming sitting, mesmerized by every word and moment. I simply ADORED this story. It's more than tempting- it's unforgettable and one of my favorite all time Melanie Harlow stories. I was totally swept away.

Millie and Zach are EVERYTHING. I could not adore these two more. What starts as an intensely physical connection blossoms into something neither anticipated- and the 15 year age gap isn’t the only forbidden aspect of their tryst. But their chemistry is undeniable and neither can resist- both torn between wanting to give into the obstacles that keep them apart but finding that the urge to give into their connection is far more powerful.

Zach- holy crap. He’s a swoony alpha- a mean with emotional depth and a complicated vulnerability, but he’s also in control and demanding and such a dirty talker. He’s like this growly protective cinnamon roll. He exudes edge and dominant charisma, but he’s also really tender and thoughtful. What a transfixing and magnetic combination- sensitivity and alpha. And Millie- oh Millie. She’s my favorite of all Harlow women- her authenticity, her relatability, her fierceness and her gentleness. She’s complex, she’s thoughtful, she’s strong. But she’s also longing for something, questioning her lovability (not because of her size!), struggling to connect her desires with her reality. I mean wow, have I ever related to anything more? The raw emotion that comes from this character is staggering, beautiful, transformative even. Like my own heart was pouring out on the page.

Melanie so perfectly harmonized heat and heart in this story. She has such a keen ability to translate real human experiences into her characters while also giving them a specificity, a uniqueness that individualizes them. I really loved the growth we saw in both of these characters- how each confronts their own baggage and fears. Both have a tendency to push others way, to prioritize others instead of themselves. Watching these two figure out their own issues because they’ve fallen into each other, providing a safe space to live into their dreams, to grapple with their demons, to find a way to being more THEMSELVES- well, it was magic on the page. Emotionally rich, sweetly heartfelt, perfectly told. I adored their chemistry- and JAYSUS THE HEAT! THis book is so spicy, I could not get enough!

And, while I certainly don’t purport to speak for all curvy gals, this curvy gal feels that Melanie wrote a plus-sized character in such an empowering and respectful way. Millie is sexual and confident, and outside of her aspirations to create a more empowering bridal experience for other curvy women, her story doesn't’ center on her size or insecurities. This story screams body positivity- and I found myself loving my own curves more with every passing page. And I mean HOLY MOLY, the way this man worships her physically and emotionally! Millie is his goddess, and my heart wanted to explode from how tenderly this man cared for her.

I am OBSESSED with Melanie’s worlds, and I loved that we got so much content with my other favorite characters (Dex and Winne from ignite). But Millie and Zach, I’m not sure anyone can compare. I fell so madly in love with them- their journey is rewarding, delicious, and so very dreamy. I will not soon forget this magical story.
Profile Image for Sentranced Jem.
1,134 reviews602 followers
November 30, 2022
I stopped reading the Cloverleigh Farms series after book 4.
Nothing wrong it the series…I just got distracted by other books and said books just kept getting pushed back into my TBR (You know how it is!) BUT when I saw the words Age-Gap, Forbidden, Small Town romance..let me tell you, I ditched my currently read and jumped right into Tempt. And it was all worth it!
Tempt is sexy, really endearing at times, the chemistry between Millie and Zach is freaking FIRE! The heartfelt scenes are beautiful. But in all honesty? Millie and Zach’s chemistry just kills it for me. It’s so passionate!
I love a good WELL WRITTEN age gap, forbidden romance and Melanie Harlow gave us such a good one.
Grab this one right now!
Profile Image for Syndi.
3,170 reviews921 followers
June 27, 2023
I was expecting forbidden, age gap romance with full drama. To my disappointment, Tempt is confusing. There is not much forbidden romance. Only mild one between Mason and Zach.

The attraction between Zach and Millie is... confusing. What is exactly the attraction here? Aside from hot sex. Miss Harlow creates 2 characters that grow apart in her story without real emotional connection.

What I like about this book is the sweet, tender moments. I like Zach tenderness toward Millie. I like the sweet dialog between them.

3 stars
Profile Image for Ⓐlleskelle - That ranting lady ッ.
1,010 reviews907 followers
November 21, 2022
I can't seem to get enough of this series and the excellent couple pairings this author makes!

I love a good age gap trope from time to time, this one worked like a charm despite the potential "ick" factor —for me— considering the female character ends up having a one night stand with her ex's dad. Myeah. Not my fave premise BUT there's a twist that made it not so much taboo and a delight to read.

Lovely family dynamics, great banter, plus size representation, PLENTY hot sex but also very sweet moments and heart to heart talks between Millie and Zach. Their chemistry on page is really well done, I lived for the "we should stop this is wrong but it feels so good" moments! How despite their determination to do the "right thing" Millie and Zach were no match for their impulse to be together. The many "this can't happen again" situations made me smile throughout. I felt this was relatively low angst despite the forbidden premise.

It's an effective mix of one night stand, love at first sight, missed connection, slow burn, secret romance and age gap set mostly in a small town.
I loved the little bits of epistolary romance, I'm a sucker for emails/texts/letters in romance stories, Melanie Harlow spices it up even more with some playful phone sex. Bonus points for the "good girl" praise and "only a bad girl for you" in their bedroom scenes and the "come sit on my face or else" moment.

Extra bonus points for MATURE characters. I loved Millie she was amazing all throughout, no drama, not living in her head. She truly was the perfect pairing for Zach. Sigh, I just love a mature—take charge male lead. Low key obsessed with them both.

I found myself smiling like an idiot reading the epilogue. My resting bitch face felt like a fraud.

This is currently available through KU :)

More reviews and book talk at :

You can find me here too ☞
Profile Image for Llakshmi.
458 reviews423 followers
November 24, 2022
adults who actually act their age. Actual mature grown ups who put in effort and try to make relationships work. 🤌🤌🤌🤌
Profile Image for MELISSA *Mel Reader*.
1,399 reviews1,472 followers
December 1, 2022
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)

DA601321-DC9E-4D18-B4B7-29F1EB91A681

Millie MacAllister lives in a small town in northern Michigan where she works as a wedding/event planner at Cloverleigh Farms. She practically grew up at Cloverleigh, and it felt like home to her. At thirty two, she was the oldest of five sisters. Her sisters Winnie and Felicity were both in love, but Millie hadn't found her person yet. Lately she'd been feeling a little unlucky, like nothing was going her way. Then the stars align when she meets a gorgeous, mysterious stranger on a trip, and has a sexy, unforgettable one night stand. It's just the spark of excitement she's needed. To flirt and share such a powerful attraction was exhilarating. They only spent a few hours together, but she hasn't felt this way in a long time. She doesn't think their paths will ever cross again, but fate has other plans.

Zach Barrett was a former Navy SEAL that works in private security out of San Diego, California. He recently found out he had a grown son he never knew existed. His son is getting married soon, and he's meeting him for the first time at the rehearsal dinner. He's nervous and then things turn even more complicated when he locks eyes across the room with the blonde bombshell that's been starring in all his fantasies. There was just something about her he couldn't get enough of. Since their night together, he couldn't quit thinking about her. Now he learns not only is Millie planning his son's wedding, but she's also his ex-girlfriend. He's divorced and fifteen years older than her, and the situation is a disaster, but he still wants her. She had an hourglass figure with stunning curves that drove him wild. Could he stay away from her, or will she be a temptation too hard to resist?

7C3EAA03-3EDB-4437-9231-77ECD10B6498

Tempt by Melanie Harlow is the fourth book in the Cloverleigh Farms Next Generation series. It's a steamy standalone, small town, age gap, forbidden romance full of passion, humor and explosive chemistry. This couple's connection was pure fire and I thought this story was super hot! I just loved Zach & Millie together! I adore this series and need more from this world! <333

708800B6-901E-4A2B-8B1A-C8DCD774F259_zpsqkbfrd0n

***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/3gw8n7H
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,843 reviews1,450 followers
November 13, 2022
Ummm.. I just finished Melanie Harlow's Tempt and am basically obsessed! Clearly, Harlow MUST be psychic because how she knew that Zach Barrett would check all my Alpha Heartthrob boxes and rock my world, Heaven only knows!!! But ladies and Gentlemen... Tempt will give you allll the swoons and feels and will skyrocket to your 2022 best of lists the minute you finish reading it! THIS BOOK IS FIREEEEE!!!!

Ok so first things first: Millie is basically my new bestfriend and no one else can have her. You guys!!! This story was SO real and raw, and Harlow did the damn thing with the amazing Millie MacAllister. She was just pure perfection. She was curvy and proud of it. She loved her body, her family, her career and was just looking for that special Dream Man that has eluded her. Enter Zach Barrett. GIRLSSSS. He gives GREATTTT growl. Lord. You will basically pass out. I just can't deal with how much I loveee him. This book is AMAZING! God.. I may even love him more than Jack Valentini. What is this life?! Sigh.

READ THIS BOOK, PEOPLE!!! It has HOT passion, fantastic banter and an amazing age-gap deliciousness. You will swoon allll the swoons, die allll the deaths and basically come back wanting more! Millie and Zach are EVERYTHING! 5 stars! ~Ratula ❤️
Profile Image for Melanie (mells_view).
1,786 reviews369 followers
January 15, 2023
3.5 “Sometimes our hearts don’t communicate with our heads.”

I enjoyed this one overall. I sort of had a hard time buying into the fact that an engaged to someone else, 29 year old man would be so weird about his dad dating his ex girlfriend that they’d feel the need to keep it secret for months and months, but also I’ve never been a 29 year old man whose dad was canoodling with his ex, so what do I really know.

That said. I enjoyed Millie and Zach. An age gap and two people falling in love despite the fact that they weren’t planning on it with each other. The sneaking around was fun even though they constantly felt guilty for it. I kind of wish that they hadn’t and had just been keeping it secret because they didn’t plan to peruse it and wanted it for them. ANYWAY.

Good read if you want ex boyfriend’s dad, age gap, secret relationship, and sort of fling romance all in a small town.
Profile Image for Kaitlyn.
61 reviews47 followers
February 2, 2023
I'm just gonna get right to the chase about what I didn't like:

- it was repetitive
- issues were solved to easily when they were huge issues that needed more depth to it
- all the talk about Millie getting a new job was boring me to death
- I hated that a big part of Millies pov was about her weight and her being curvy. I wished that it showed more of her being okay with being plus sized and not the stereotypical being obsessed with her weight, having people comment on it in the past, being shamed for being plus sized like it's a bad thing, and the mom getting onto her about it
- the lack of depth of the characters
- Zach caring about his age. Dilfs are hot so get on board buddy
- to many side things were happening that I didn't give a fuck about
- just didn't care about them
- hated that it had a ton of tropes I liked but I didn't like the book
- didn't believe their chemistry
- they fucked more than they had actual conversations
Profile Image for Rose.
420 reviews1,109 followers
February 13, 2023
4.75⭐️ THIS BOOK WAS SO GOOD!! The spice, plot, characters, it was all perfect. I love this series so much. 😭💛
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,758 reviews1,325 followers
November 28, 2022
****AVAILABLE NOW****

4.5 STARS

This is probably my second favorite from the series. I loved the age gap, the plus size heroine, and the overall themes of the novel.

What I loved:
1. I love the McAllister family. That’s it. That’s the whole point. They are what a family should be.
2. I really connected to Millie on the level of worrying and hoping and waiting for the right one, being scared of chasing a dream, and so many more aspects.
3. Zach was a great hero. I felt his struggle between balancing his need to be a good father to his newly found son and his desire for an HEA.
4. I really liked how Melanie Harlow showed that sometimes, when you love someone, what you thought you wanted can change. I also liked that she left the ending open instead of delivering on the standard family epilogue.
5. The steam was great and really showed how kinks can show when you are comfortable and feel safe.

What I needed more of:
1. Millie is a plus size heroine, and I felt like this really only came up when she mentioned her mom or she was opining about the injustices of a plus size heroine. Yes, Millie loved her body and she didn’t show insecurities with Zach, which is a breathe of fresh air, but it did at times, feel like a Millie was a talking point instead of it being a part of her character.
2. The was no big climax or break up and the resolution came pretty quickly and easily.
3. I wish there would have been a final overall epilogue since it’s the end of the standalone series, I believe.

I would absolutely recommend not only this book but the other standalones in the series!

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